All too frequently we read of sickening cases of cruelty to pets in local and national newspapers. Why is it, we ask, that some ‘human’ creatures inflict suffering upon other creatures that are usually smaller and defenseless? Why do they take pets into their homes only to treat them with less than respect and with a great deal of contempt?

Often the reason these animal abusers obtain a pet is the same reason that they end up treating the animal cruelly. And that reason is control. They may not consciously think “I need something to control so I will get myself a pet”, but the fact remains that rarely do these people keep a pet just for companionship and something to love, but to have a living thing under their control.

People that deliberately hurt animals do so because it gives them a feeling of power. Perhaps these ‘people’ feel undervalued within their family, or within society. Perhaps they have an inflated sense of how much they should be valued. Hence, these sick beings take out their frustrations on helpless pets.

Often sadistic acts of animal abuse are one step away from abusing humans.

In a shocking amount of cases, those that commit terrible acts of violence to people, serial killers, child abusers, spouse beaters and rapists, have a history of animal abuse. As a youth Albert DeSalvo (the Boston strangler) trapped cats and dogs in crates and abused them. Peter Kurten (the Dusseldorf vampire) started torturing dogs as a boy and carried the vile practice into adulthood. Brenda Spencer fired rifle shots at school children, wounding nine and killing two. Neighbors of the murderess reported that she often abused cats and dogs, sometimes by setting their tails on fire.

A study in 1997 discovered that 40% of animal abusers had committed acts of violence against people. In another study, a history of abusing animals was found in 46% of those found guilty of sexual homicide.

The sensational high profile examples, such as serial killers, are but the tip of the iceberg, in many, many cases of spouse battering, child abuse, etc. pet cruelty is also a factor in the home. It’s a sad fact that all too often we read reports in the news papers of someone found guilty of cruelty to their pet which is a sick terrible thing in itself, but often that is only half the story.

In an extensive survey of abused wives who kept pets, over half reveled that their abusing partners had harmed, and in some cases killed, their pets. The fear that the abuser would greatly harm the pet for revenge if she left, kept many of those wives from leaving.

Back in 1837 when Charles Dickens wrote Oliver Twist he created the character Bill Sykes, who was a violent bully that badly abused his dog Bullseye. True to form, the bullying thug was also violent with people, particularly his lady friend Nancy.

Before the end of the novel Sykes attempts to take the life of the child Oliver, and succeeds in killing Nancy. Dickens knew that those that are cruel to pets are dangerous sick people.

If you know of anyone who harms their pet, or is cruel to an animal in any way, do not hesitate in reporting them to the authorities. In doing so, you may not only be saving the life of an animal but ultimately, a human being.

Related items

• Love Your Pet by Protecting Their Immune System
• Analyzing Pet Behavior Problems
• How To Spot A Sick Pet
• Can My Pet Fish Get Me Or My Kids Sick?
• Buying a Pet is it Right for You

With the recent “Snapping”…OK, darn right biting of a reporter by the President’s dog, it seems that there has been more talk of Pets Behavior Problems these days.  I guess as tough as the reporters have been to our dear ‘ole President, it is no wonder he gets a little snappy form time-to-time…the dog, not the President.
How about you?  Are you dealing with some Pet Behavior Problems yourself?  Hey, I’m not a Doctor and I don’t even play one on TV, but I have had a long obsession with my pets and have spent a lot of hours working with various Animal Rescue organizations as it a passion and one I contribute to as much as I can yearly.  In that time I have had a lot of conversations with various Doctors who have given me some excellent information when it comes to Pet Behavior.  Everyone has their own remedies, that much is for sure, but there seems to be some consensus as to some of the methods people use.
Here are some of the most frequent questions that I have heard that have seemed to begged answers from new pet owners that were adopting a pet.  They relate to barking excessively, chewing in a destructive manner, accidents, a pet that seems to pace about, licking or drooling excessively and inactivity, usually in older dogs.  There are tons of other questions, many that seem more Breed related, but most of the questions seem to fall under the previously mentioned categories.
First and foremost, there are questions you need to ask yourself.  I believe that many problems from a Pet Behavior standpoint can be directly related to the owner’s behavior.  You see, your pet often reflects back what you are feeling.  I know that my cat can seem to pick up on my moods and there is no doubt that your pet may be doing the same.
So ask yourself is there something going on in you life that has caused a “Disruption” in the usual routine?  Have you changed their diet in some way?  Has a “new” pet or child been introduced into the fold?  Great questions to determine any external situations that may be causing a different behavior from your pet.  Have you spent more time away from your pet than usual?  There is a thing called “Separation Anxiety” and pets are certainly not immune.
Now see if your pet has any overt signs of sickness that will be causing a problem.  Many times at the beginning of a sickness, the problems start to manifest.  Just be aware of your pets changing moods and don’t be so quick to want to punish bad behavior.
A couple of tips for dealing with your pet.
When you see a problem, deal with it quickly.  Don’t try to dismiss it and think it will go away if you ignore it.
Always be gentle with your pet.  Just as with a child, I don’t ever believe you should hit a pet out of anger.  Your pet should never fear you by thinking they are going to get hit when you raise your hand.
The quieter you are when dealing with your pet, the better and rarely scold them.  How do you feel when you are constantly derided at work or by a significant other?  Why do you think pets are any different?
Rotate the toys for your pet.  That keeps them interested in playing more if they have new stimuli to play with.
The most important aspect to remember about your pet is that, by and large, you chose them somehow, right?  You decided that you wanted a pet.
I’ve often heard that you can’t pick your family, but that you can pick your friends…and your pets.
Visit DA’s blog at petcare.itsyourshowitsyourlife.com and join the Pet Care Newsletter and stay informed on the latest trends and products that relate to that family member we love so much.

Related items

• Why Would Someone Be Cruel to Their Pet?
• Dog Behavior Training â?? Choosing a Good Family Dog
• How To Spot A Sick Pet
• Can My Pet Fish Get Me Or My Kids Sick?
• Buying a Pet is it Right for You

Your pet’s health is no doubt very important to you. You don’t want your dog or cat to be ill and just down-right sad. Of course not! That’s why you need to make sure your pets are in proper health. But not everyone knows how to identify a sick dog or cat – and that’s ok. Many people have pet health questions that they don’t have the answer to. Pets are not like humans. Their illnesses are unique to them and unfortunately, they can’t tell us exactly what hurts or doesn’t feel right. That’s why you need to look for signs that your pet might not be feeling just right.

Here are some signs to look for if you think your pet is under the weather.

Just not Him/Herself

One indicator of a sick pet is that he/she is not acting the way they usually do. Often lethargy (tiredness and/or fatigue) sets in when a pet is sick and your dog or cat may shy away rather than run up to greet you. Also if your pet isn’t as vibrant or energetic, it’s a good indication that something is not right. However, these signs won’t answer your pet health questions. They’ll just key you in to how your pet is feeling. When a pet is not acting his/herself, feel around his/her body and see how your pet reacts. If something is tender, your pet will definitely react with a “howl” or quick movement. That means a visit to the vet’s office is necessary.

Vomit/Diarrhea

Even though pets are not like us, there are some indications of poor health that are similar to ours, such as vomit and diarrhea. These are two clear signs that something’s not right with Fido or Mittens. This normally means that your pet has eaten something that has made him/her sick. In this case, it’s common to see your pet eat grass. The common belief is that grass helps remove the “bad stuff” from your pets system, acting sort of like a laxative, so you might see your pet eating grass prior to spotting vomit and/or diarrhea. Normally if they just ate something that doesn’t agree with them, the vomit and diarrhea will pass. However, if it persists, consult your veterinarian.

Fur Loss

We all know that our pets shed. We see the lumps of hair build all over the house that, at times, can be a bit annoying. However, if you notice large patches of missing hair, something is definitely not right. In some cases your pet might just be getting old and losing hair. However, this is not always the case. In some cases hair loss indicates skin irritations (scratching at itchy skin causing hair to be scratched away), cysts, ringworm, or an infection. Fur loss does raise a lot of pet health questions and since there could be a number of reasons, your best bet it to take your pet to the vet for some pet medications.

Discharge from Eyes and/or Nose

If there’s unusual “goop” around your dog or cat’s eyes or coming from their nose, you got a sick puppy/kitty. “Goop” normally indicates some sort of infection. If you notice such “goop”, clean your pet’s eyes/nose and see if it persists. If it does, there’s something up and it’s time to go see the vet.

Your pet’s health should just as important as yours and your family’s. The healthier your pet is, the longer he/she will be around to greet you when you come home from a hard day’s work.

In many cases, the solution to helping your pet feel better is through prescription pet meds. There are places online where you can get pet medications for less. Before you by those meds for your pet, see what generic and low cost alternatives are available to you online. The web is filled with discounted pet supplies.

Related items

• Can My Pet Fish Get Me Or My Kids Sick?
• What To Do When Your Pet Bird Gets Sick
• Why Would Someone Be Cruel to Their Pet?
• Analyzing Pet Behavior Problems
• Buying a Pet is it Right for You

Pet fish, both salt water and fresh water varieties, can get you sick from a strain of bacteria related to human tuberculosis. Although infection from this bacteria is rare, certain precautions should be taken when cleaning and dealing with aquarium water, fish and products contaminated with aquarium water. This disease is very dangerous for those with a weakened immune system.

The layman term for this fairly rare fish tank disease is Fish Tank Granuloma. The scientific name for this bacteria is mycobacterium marinum. If you think that you or your child has been exposed to or is suffering from this disease, your smart move is to consult your physician who can help pinpoint the cause and prescribe proper treatment. This article is for your additional information only. I feel that it is always smart to do your homework before you consult your physician. The more help you can offer your physician on his diagnosis of a problem the better.

The absolutely fist line of defense against this infection is to wear waterproof gloves when cleaning your fish tank or dealing with fish tank water. Even if you wore gloves, wash your hands and arms thoroughly with anti-bacterial soap when you start and when you are done, just to be safe. This disease often enters the body through cuts and abrasions or any compromise of the skin so be particularly aware of this. Never drink or taste your aquarium water for any reason.

The symptoms of Fish Tank Granuloma are wounds that take a very long time to heal. Generally these wounds are on the hands, arms or fingers. After the wound closes, there may be some soreness and small nodules (called granulomas) around the wound. If this disease enters the bloodstream, nodules may form in the veins close to the original wound. Because this disease is very slow growing, these nodules may take 2-3 weeks and even up to several months to show up. The infected wound may become ulcerous and close lymph nodes may become swollen. This disease may heal itself over time. Your doctor may be interested to know that this bacterium is gram-positive which means it will retain a crystal violet dye for identification purposes.

It should be noted that this disease may also be picked up at incorrectly chlorinated pools, from any fish (uncooked), and from swimming in fresh and salt water in many parts of the world, including the United States. Generally, a cut, abrasion or wound must be present along with the bacteria.

Treatment varies and as of now, there is no set rule to which regimen of antibiotics works best. It can take a long time to rid oneself of this disease. It can take 3 months to almost a year of an antibiotic regimen. Often combinations of antibiotics are used such as tetracyclines, ethambutol, rifampicin, trimethoprim, and/or sulfamethoxazole. Some physicians use Rifampin + Ethambutol, Rifampin + Clarithromycin or Minocycline by itself.

Related items

• How To Spot A Sick Pet
• What To Do When Your Pet Bird Gets Sick
• Why Would Someone Be Cruel to Their Pet?
• Analyzing Pet Behavior Problems
• Buying a Pet is it Right for You

If you are thinking of getting a dog or puppy, you have to remember that this is a lifelong commitment. Preparing yourself for the responsibilities of dog- ownership is the beginning of a happy and rewarding time sharing your home with a pet. If you treat a dog well, you will be repaid with a lifetime of unquestioning devotion. With training and care, a dog will obey your commands and be a valuable part of the family.

But what are the considerations? As this is a partnership and not a one-way relationship you have to consider whether you are suited to your chosen pet and vice versa.

When you are considering whether to offer a home to a puppy or dog, you need to think about:

Is a Dog Right For You

Look carefully at what you would want from a dog, and what you could give. This applies equally whether you are thinking about getting a tiny toy Poodle or a large adult Bull Mastiff. Remember, a tiny puppy can grow into a very big dog!

Your needs;

Lifestyle

Dogs, like small children, need time and attention. They like to be loved, and leaving them alone for long periods of time can be very upsetting. If you work long hours full-time, then a dog is probably not the pet for you at this stage in your career. If you have just had a new baby, or have very small children, again consider carefully about whether this is a good time to have another new family member.

Facilities available

Have you a large house and garden that would suit a boisterous, energetic type of dog? Are you the sedentary type who lives in a small flat, where maybe a small lapdog would be ideal? Dogs can vary in size from the chipper Chihuahua to the stately St Bernard, and in energy levels from the sprightly Springer Spaniel to a placid Pekingese. Remember the needs of a crossbred may be more difficult to predict. Your local library usually has plenty of books about different dog breeds, so it is worthwhile getting a selection to read about various dogs before you make up your mind.

A dog needs

Time

PDSA estimates that a dog will need about 5 hours a day of your time and undivided attention. That would include routine ‘maintenance’ such as grooming, dental care and feeding, as well as play.

Money

Dogs will cost you money as well as time. Not only are there the ‘one-off’ items, such as buying the dog, beds, leads and collars, but there are the regular expenses such as food. Again, the amount eaten depends on the breed and the activity. For example, a working dog will need a high energy diet, and a puppy will need a diet specific to its growing needs.

The Basics

Collar

There are lots of different collars around, and it is important to choose the correct one for your dog. A puppy should have a very light one, with room for growth but an adult can have any sort, fitting well so that there is no chance that the dog will slip out of it. A metal ‘check chain’ must be put on the right way round, as it can ‘lock’ if not, causing great distress.

The collar must legally have the owner’s name and address on it, and a contact telephone number is useful. Think about an ‘identichip’ that can be painlessly inserted under the skin by your vet. This provides unique indelible identification

Lead

Again, there are lots of different types. A young puppy can have a light-weight nylon lead, but an adult dog should have one that will not break when pulled. There are extendable leads, which may be suitable for one small dog but are best avoided where more than one dog is being walked.

Food and water bowls

These should be easy to clean, although they should always be washed separately and never with your own crockery. Stainless steel bowls, or heavy pottery ones with no chips, are fine. It is also important to throw out any uneaten food after your dog has finished eating and to make sure there is fresh water available at all times.

Dog Bed

A cosy, easily washed bed is important for dogs. This will be ‘their’ residence! Make sure you choose one that can be cleaned thoroughly, which is especially important in the summer when fleas are at their most active.

It should have no sharp corners or potential splinters that could cause injuries.

Toys

These are a vital part of a dog’s life. Not only do they make walks fun, but they make sure that the dog ’socialises’ with the family. They can help clean teeth, they exercise the brain and can be used for training purposes.

Pooper scooper

It is essential that owners play their part in cleaning up after their dog. As part of pet owner responsibilities, always carry a ‘pooper scooper’ or a plastic bag with you to clean up any mess produced by your dog. This not only makes the environment cleaner, but prevents any serious dangers to children from canine parasites, such as Toxocara canis, a parasite that can cause blindness.

Grooming items

A long-haired Saluki will need more coat attention than a short-haired Jack Russell, but all dogs will need attention and regular bathing to keep their skin and coat well maintained.
You will need a brush and comb suited for the hair type of your chosen pet. A long-haired Yorkshire Terrier needs to be combed and brushed at least once a day, but a short-haired Boxer will probably only need a vigorous brushing twice a week.

Canine toothbrush and toothpaste

Regular brushing of your dog’s teeth and dental check-ups should be a routine part of dog care. Special canine toothpaste and brushes are now widely available from vets and pet shops, but avoiding sweet things is also important for dental care as well as weight control.

Make your pet comfortable when starting to brush, and approach them from the side rather than the front. You can begin with a flannel folded over a finger, or a special ‘finger brush’, but these are not as good as a proper canine toothbrush. Dogs don’t like human toothpaste, as it foams too much. It is much better to buy special ‘pet toothpaste’ which doesn’t foam and tastes far nicer to the dog! Start with a few teeth, and gradually increase it so that you can do the whole mouth in one session. Brush just the gums on the outside surface at first, as these are the ones that most need the care and attention.

At the end of this brushing, make sure you give a treat such as a rawhide strip (not chocolate or other sweeties!) so that your pet feels it’s all been worthwhile.

Looking after your puppy

Preparing

Now you have chosen the type of dog that you feel you can get along with, what is the next stage?

You want to get a pet that will fit in with you and your family. It can be a pure bred puppy from a breeder or it can be a cross-bred from a friend. To help you choose, it is better to have a good idea of what you will get. It is better to see the puppy with the mother, or if possible both parents, to give a good idea about the final size of the dog. You’ll know then whether the puppy comes from a good home and what the dog’s personality is likely to be. A healthy pup will also be inquisitive, alert and playful with a glossy coat. Remember, it is better to wait for the ideal canine partner rather than to choose impulsively, so you may have to save up or be on a waiting list for an expensive pure bred dog.

One way that everyone in the family can get involved is in choosing the new pup’s name. Remember, you may be calling this out across a park in the future, so choose one that everyone feels comfortable with, and which suits the dog.

Arrival

The best time to take on a new puppy is when you have time and there is not too much going on in the household. This is one of the factors why Christmas is not a good time to get a new dog. Two weeks of care and attention initially will pay off in the end. If you have older school-aged children, the school holidays are a good time to get that new family member. If possible, the primary ‘carer’ should be with the puppy for the next couple of weeks.

Make sure that you have got everything ready for the big day. Buy all of the equipment you need, and register your pup with a vet. Make sure that the day of arrival is as ‘normal’ as possible – the puppy is going to be scared and confused, so lots of people around making a fuss will only add to the distress. Make sure you have all of the things you would need for the new dog to make them feel as loved as possible. Remember, they are going to feel anxious and overwhelmed, so give them space and don’t worry too much if there are ‘accidents’!

Feeding

Feeding your puppy correctly is a big part of responsible pet care. Obesity is one of the biggest problems for pets, as dogs are natural gluttons and their bodies utilise a wide range of foods very efficiently. It is important that they get the correct diet for them, and a puppy’s diet varies according to age.

Puppies are ready to eat solid food when they are about 7 weeks old, although this does vary. It is best to feed them on a special tinned ‘puppy diet’ you can get from the local supermarket or pet shop. Initially, they will need four meals a day, but this can be reduced to three a day at about 12 weeks old. By the time they are 6 months, they can have two meals a day. This regime can continue for the rest of their life, or else it can be cut down to one meal daily, according to their needs.

Socialisation and training

Any puppy benefits from contact with humans and other dogs, but you will have to be careful that the puppy is protected by vaccinations before it comes into contact with other dogs or pet owners. The veterinary practice you have chosen may run ‘puppy parties’, which can give you advice, but in any case it is worthwhile getting the pet checked out by the vet as soon as you can. Make sure you tell the receptionist when booking an appointment that it is a young puppy.

Training should start as soon as possible, so that your dog fits in well with society.

One of the first things you will concentrate on is toilet training. Find an area indoors that you can clean up easily, and use that in the first stage. Put down plenty of newspaper. Your puppy will give you a clue that it needs to go to the toilet by sniffing around and being a bit restless. Pick up the puppy, one hand under the chest and one under the hindquarters, and transport it to the paper. When it performs the task, praise it and if it moves off the paper, rebuke it with a firm ‘no’. As soon as your pup is protected through its vaccinations, you can let the puppy go into the garden. Put down newspaper, and use the same technique you did inside – praise for success, rebuke if not. Gradually do away with the paper.

Puppies

When your dog is out, it will probably want to go to the toilet. As a responsible pet-owner, it is vital that you remove the solid waste from the pavement, or train your dog to use the gutter as its lavatory. There can be heavy fines for dog fouling, as well as being unacceptable for other people. ‘Pooper scoopers’ are available at most vets and pet shops, but good old plastic bags are just as good. Parks have special bins for dog waste, so make sure you remove any debris away from the public!
Social training is also important. Any behaviour that can be amusing in a puppy may be frightening in an adult. The puppy that nips is easier to deal with than the dog that bites! Every time your pup does something that is unacceptable, a firm ‘no’ will usually work. Don’t get angry with your puppy, but make sure it knows what is OK, and what is not.

You also have to make sure that your pet is not a danger to other dogs, pedestrians or the actual dog walker. Correct training from an early age is essential, so research where the local dog-training school is located. Try and find out from other dog-owners or your local library as soon as possible about any local classes.

Exercise

Again, this varies according to the breed, but it is vitally important. It helps the owner keep fit as well as the dog! You have to be very careful when exercising your dog, and numerous shorter walks a day are better than one long walk. When out for their exercise, dogs should be on a lead in a built up area, and only release your pup when you are absolutely sure your dog is safe. Not only are there dangers from traffic and other dogs which may not be as nice as yours, but tins, glass and other hazards can cause injuries.

Remember, as well, if you are getting a puppy, it can’t be taken out until the vet advises that it is protected by its vaccination programme .

Looking after your dog

Older Dogs

Preparing

Now you have chosen the type of dog that you feel you can get along with, what is the next stage?
If you have decided that an adult dog is the one for you, consider getting a rescued dog from a shelter, perhaps thinking about a ‘trial period’ to make sure the two of you will get on well.
One useful consideration is that a reputable shelter, dog-owner or breeder will want to check you out as the prospective owner. Don’t be put off by this – any responsible re-homing organisation or breeder would want to make sure their dogs were going to a caring home.

Arrival

The age of the dog affects the way you use the time allocated to your pet initially. An older dog may need help in adjusting to a new home, depending upon its past background. An adult dog will need just as much attention as a puppy would to settle into its new home.

Dietary advice

Dogs eat mainly meat, but still need a balanced diet with some carbohydrate, vitamins and minerals. Complete diets are available and will provide all of your dog’s dietary needs, as will tinned food with biscuits. With all dietary regimes, it is important that dogs do not eat more food than they need. They are naturally quite greedy, and will often eat more than their calorific requirement. This leads to obesity, which is seen in over 50% of the dogs that come to PDSA. Most dogs are fed once or twice a day, and when they are young and active have very few problems if they are fed a good diet, with few tit-bits.

Dietary advice

At the ‘post-maturity stage’, which usually begins when smaller dogs are about eight years old and at five years for the large and giant breeds, they may have different dietary requirements. In this ‘post-maturity’ phase, the tissues, organs and systems of the pet are gradually becoming less efficient. This is quite a natural progression, but it can be well managed, hopefully making sure that the pet has a good level of activity and wellbeing for the remainder of its life.

The rate of progression is dependant on many factors, such as the environment the pet lives in and its genetic make-up. However, by far the most important component is the pet’s nutrition, both in the past and how it is now. A pet that is the optimal weight and has had a good diet throughout its life will enter this phase with few problems.

As soon as you notice any ‘ageing’ signs, such as greying around the muzzle or a bit of stiffness after rest and a gradual slowing down, you should start considering your pet’s diet, and how you can make it more suitable to its needs. You need to take account of the changes that are happening in your pet’s body. For example, the amount of skeletal muscle in the older pet will decrease with age. This loss of skeletal muscle means that not only is there less physical activity, but the pet’s ability to repair damaged tissues and produce energy from food is reduced.

Older dogs have varied dietary needs; ask your vet for advice about the one suited for your dog.

Socialisation and training

A well-trained dog is a pleasure to have around, and begin training as early as you can. It is possible to teach an older dog, but it is better to start when your dog is as young as possible. Start off with simple tasks, such as getting your dog to respond to its name. Then graduate to training around the house and in the garden using the lead. Training before a meal is a good time, as you are sure your dog will pay you full attention! The training periods should be short, about 15 minutes per session. Reinforce ‘good’ behaviour with a treat which can be gradually replaced with praise alone. Unacceptable behaviour should be corrected with a sharp ‘no’.

Exercise

The amount of exercise needed varies according to the age and breed of a dog. A small lapdog may need less exercise than an active hound. However, each dog has its own exercise needs, and as age creeps on it may prefer a more sedentary life. A responsible owner will still make sure his/her dog’s life is enjoyable, with exercise perhaps replaced by toys for mental stimulation.

Remember, as well, to follow any veterinary advice you have been given about exercise. For example, a dog after surgery will need to be rested, especially if it has had an orthopaedic operation.

Veterinary care

Choosing a vet

Either just before or as soon as you have got your new dog, you need to register with the vet you have chosen to look after your new pet. Choosing the vet who will look after you and your animals is as difficult as selecting the right pet! Making a visit to a practice waiting room and chatting to dog-owners can help, but the initial visit to the vet should give you enough information.

Make an appointment as soon as you can for a check-up, and the vet can then devise a care programme for your dog. Write a list of the questions you want to ask, so everything you want to know can be covered.

When to contact the vet

A vet would rather see healthy pets than sick ones that should have been treated earlier, so if you are worried about your pet it is always best to contact the practice. If your dog is unwell, there will have been a change in behaviour – it may be sleepier or off its food. They may be generally ‘off colour’. Owners should use their common sense about when to contact their vet; it will not make an owner popular to use the emergency service in the early hours of the morning for a trivial complaint.

Veterinary costs

While most dog-owners can consider the regular routine needs, such as vaccinations and worming, it is the out-of-the-ordinary expenses that a dog-owner may not be prepared for. The treatment associated with a road accident can run into thousands of pounds. Most dog owners are now considering pet insurance, which helps cover the unexpected. There are plenty of organisations around that offer this, including PDSA, so shop around for the best policy for you. Third-party insurance is included in most policies, and this is essential to avoid large payments should your dog be involved in an accident.

Essential veterinary care

A Vaccination Programme

This varies according to past history and the age of your dog. Prevention of infectious diseases through vaccinations is an essential part of caring for your dog. Your pet can be vaccinated against killer diseases such as distemper, infectious canine hepatitis, Leptospira canicola and icterohaemorrhagicae, parvovirus and the more uncommon canine parainfluenza and Bordatella bronchiseptica. Your dog will also need annual boosters.

If you are planning to take your pet abroad, remember your dog will need additional vaccinations and health checks.

Neutering Programme

Getting your bitch neutered, unless you are intending to breed from her with absolute certainty of good homes for the pups, is essential. The average number of offspring is between four and six pups per litter, though it can be many more. Other benefits include a reduced risk of mammary tumours later on in life, and avoidance of pyometra, a womb infection.

Neutering a male dog will decrease the tendency to roam and be aggressive. When your dog should be neutered, the benefits and small risks can all be discussed with your vet at the initial consultation.

Neutered animals of both sexes also tend to live longer.

Home Care

Coat care

Apart from general grooming with a brush and comb, your dog will need bathing. The number of baths your dog needs depends on the circumstances. For example, a dog should be bathed quite soon after rolling in the mud, so it doesn’t solidify on the coat. The shampoos available contain different ingredients, and if you just want a general shampoo, don’t use human products. These can be too drying for a dog’s coat; so get one with a moisturiser from your vet or a good pet shop.

The best way to bathe your dog is to use a ‘whirlpool’ type bath, but shower attachments work just as well. Don’t use the garden hose, as this can upset a dog as well as making your life a misery. You don’t need to protect your dog’s ears or eyes, as shaking removes the water from the ears and the eyes can be rinsed out easily. The coat should be reasonably clean to begin with; as any mud or debris can inactivate the shampoo. Wet the coat with lukewarm water, and massage the shampoo in the coat for 5-10 minutes. Shampooing can dry the coat due to water loss through the skin, so it is a good idea to use a moisturiser. You can apply it after bathing, or use a good moisturising shampoo. Gently towel dry your dog; the ‘towel bags’ you can get to completely enclose your pet are excellent. Don’t use a hair dryer as this can cause burns.

Diarrhoea and vomiting

Dogs sometimes get upset stomachs after eating something unusual whilst out. As long as the dog is well in all other respects, don’t offer any food for 24 hours, just sips of cool previously boiled water. If you allow the dog to drink too much at any one time, it may be sick again. If the diarrhoea and vomiting stop, introduce food – again small amounts. White meats, such as chicken or fish, should be fed with plain boiled rice and gradually introduce the dog’s normal diet. If the symptoms persist over a couple of days, or if there is an obvious turn for the worse, don’t leave it too long before you call the vet.

Eyes and ears

Normally a dog’s eyes are well lubricated but conjunctivitis causes the eyes to produce more tears than can be drained away and the eyes become reddened. In the meantime, before you can get to the vet’s, clean away any discharge using a piece of tissue or cotton wool soaked in warm, previously boiled, water. Use the piece of tissue/cotton wool just once, discarding after use and wipe from the inside of the eye area to the outside. Your pet’s vet should be consulted if the symptoms persist for more than a day.

Long-eared dogs are particularly prone to ear infections, but all dogs should have their ears inspected at least once a week. Any reddening or discharge needs a trip to the vet’s.

Sometimes dogs get grass seeds lodged in their ears and eyes. The grass seed may not necessarily be visible, but the dog will paw continuously at the ear or eye affected.

Emergencies in the home

Some minor injuries, such as tiny cuts or burns, can be dealt with by owners. It is worthwhile preparing to deal with an emergency in advance before it happens. There are many pet care books that cover this subject, and it is also a good idea to buy or create a Pet First Aid Kit. In addition, make sure everyone knows what to do in a crisis. Keep the telephone number of your veterinary practice by the ‘phone, together with a pencil and paper to note down any instructions and fill out your dog’s record card at the back of this leaflet.

Gum disease

Gingivitis, or gum disease, is one of the commonest complaints seen at PDSA PetAid Hospitals. This can be prevented with good oral hygiene from an early age, but your dog’s annual check-up at the vet’s will help reduce the risk of tartar build-up.

Holiday provisions

Preparing for a holiday has to be done well in advance. Are you taking your dog with you, and if so have you checked out the hotel? Are you putting your dog in a kennel? If so, find out what vaccinations may be necessary and book a place well in advance – good kennels get booked up very quickly. Are you getting a house-sitter? Check out the references, and make sure all eventualities are covered.

Parasite prevention care programme

A regular worming, flea and other ectoparasite control programme can be suggested by your vet.

It is quite common for a dog to have fleas, and every dog is likely to become infected at some stage in its life. You will either see flecks of dried blood (’flea dirt’) in the coat, or fleas themselves, and for every flea you see running through your dog’s fur there may be hundreds of young fleas waiting to jump aboard a passing pet! Young fleas can live for over a year without feeding, so it is particularly important to treat the house and all pets in a flea control programme. The secret is to treat both the dog and the environment with effective products that kill both adult and immature fleas all year round. As well as causing severe skin irritation, fleas play a vital part in the tapeworm’s life cycle.

As well as thinking about fleas, it is vital to make sure you follow the worming regime recommended by a vet. This will get rid of internal parasites, which are a problem for dogs as well as affecting the environment and people.

Road accidents

Some dogs may be involved in road accidents in spite of every sensible precaution a responsible owner takes. If that happens to you, try and keep calm. At the scene of a road accident, try and get as much help as possible – one person to contact the dog’s vet, another to direct traffic. Others can remove the dog from the road if possible, where there is no risk to the pet or the people. If you suspect any spinal injury, move the dog only if absolutely necessary, using a very firm board to keep any movement to a minimum.

Protect your pet with Pet Insurance

If your pet falls ill or has an accident it can be a stressful time both financially and emotionally, especially is you don’t have a Pet insurance policy in place. With the average cost of a course of veterinary treatment rising year-on-year and now standing at over £250*, PDSA urges all pet owners to insure their pet in case of illness or accidents.
*Claims received by PDSA Petsurance between 01/01/05 and 31/12/06

PDSA Petsurance has been designed for all breeds of cat and dog, from moggies and cross-breeds to pedigree champions. There are three different levels of policy for the owner to choose from. PDSA Petsurance was designed by our vets and insurance specialists to ensure all sick and injured pets can receive the veterinary care they need and best of all for animal lovers, a percentage of each policy goes directly back to PDSA to help sick and injured pets.

Read our weekly animal health articles at http://www.in2town.co.uk or http://www.in2town.co.uk/PDSA-animal-magazine-and-animal-advice.html

Related items

• Why Would Someone Be Cruel to Their Pet?
• Analyzing Pet Behavior Problems
• How To Spot A Sick Pet
• Can My Pet Fish Get Me Or My Kids Sick?
• What To Do When Your Pet Bird Gets Sick

Like other pets, your bird can get sick but unlike other pets your birds illness can become serious, even life-threatening, very quickly. If your bird is acting even the slightest bit ill you should get him to your veterinarian right away since birds can go downhill very fast.

Sometimes, however you can get your bird to the veterinarian right away so here are some steps you can take to help care for your sick bird.

first off, you want make sure that you sick bird stays warm. Keep his cage out of many drafts and you might want to try using a grow light ( the same kind you use to grow plants) aimed at the cage but placed in such a way so that your bird can get out of the direct light if he gets too hot.

If you find that your bird is just sitting on the bottom of the cage and is to sick to even sit on his perch, then you might want to move into a hospital cage for better safety. A glass aquarium can make a great hospital cage. Put a towel or some newspaper on the bottom of the cage and put shallow bowls of food and water where your bird can get to it. Newspaper can be kind of slippery so you want to put something that has a little more grit like paper towels on the bottom so that your bird isn’t sliding around.

If you can get a freestanding low perch in the aquarium this is perfect in case you bird wants to perch. Position the light so that It shines and to only one side so that the bird can get out of it if he gets too hot.

if you don’t have an anti-aquarium readily available than you can make a few changes to your bird’s regular cage. Cover most of it with a towel to keep in the heat input the birds food and water dishes on the bottom of the cage where he can get to them. Also, if you have a freestanding parts put this on the bottom two.

You’ve got to make sure that your bird keeps up his strength as he can easily become weakened by lack of food and water. electrolytes can give your sick bird some quick energy and if he is a hand fed bird then you might see if he’ll try taking a few drops of a sports drink from a spoon or eyedropper. If you have a hand feeding formula ready mix that up with some of the sport strength instead of water and see If you’ll take that. if you bird is eating on his own make sure that he’s getting enough and maybe offer him a tree like a spray millet so that he can get some quick energy. Make sure he also gets enough water.

If you bird is bleeding you need to provide emergency care before you can get them to the vet. Look him over to see where the blood is coming from. While most others do not bleed new feathers that are still growing can bleed. These occult blood feathers and if you do find that the blood is coming from one you’ll need to pull the feather out completely. It’s a good idea to cover your birds head with a towel while you are doing this. If it’s not a feather that’s bleeding check his nails and toes and if it’s coming from they are applied to styptic powder to the cut. If you don’t have styptic powder handy you can use flour In a pinch.

The key to successfully treating your sick bird is getting him to the vet at the first sign of illness. Be sure that you’re always watching your bird in checking him for signs of illness. If you notice that your bird Is acting a little different or even look sick it’s best to call your bet and get them in right away. It may be that nothing is really wrong with your bird but it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Related items

• How To Spot A Sick Pet
• Can My Pet Fish Get Me Or My Kids Sick?
• What does Pet Insurance Cover?
• How to Find Medical Resources for Your Pets
• Love Your Pet by Protecting Their Immune System

Since March 16, more than 5,600 pet food items have been recalled after it was discovered that the chemical melamine, found in imported wheat gluten, rice gluten and corn gluten, has been making thousands of pets sick.

4,867 pets (2,527 cats and 2,365 dogs) have been reported (by owners) as deceased, and the total number of affected pets reported has been 14,750, as of May 16, 2007.

The Pet Food Recall is a crisis of unprecedented proportions. Never in our history have so many pets died and developed illness as a result of Pet Food. The Pet Food companies have lost our trust. This scandal is producing more questions than answers, and NO ONE is standing up and telling the Truth.

Initial reports suggested that aminopterin, a rodenticide not used in the US or Canada, could be the causal agent – but this was not proven by subsequent testing, and is currently being discounted by the FDA. Melamine, a non-protein nitrogen fertilizer (used in China) and component of plastics such as formica is currently the most likely suspect compound because it has been found in the affected gluten and foods.

The specific toxin in the contaminated protein ingredients (gluten, rice protein concentrate) has not been completely identified. Overall, the 4 substances that have been identified include melamine, amiloride, amilorine and cyanuric acid. Testing in 3 laboratories has identified cyanuric acid in the contaminated food and in crystals from cat urine. In fact, analysis of melamine cyanurate crystals shows a close match to crystals obtained from cat urine – this has allowed for a tentative identification of melamine as the culprit.

Cyanuric Acid is commonly used as a chlorine stabilizer in swimming pools. The ‘CYA test’ to determine the concentration of cyanuric acid in pool water uses melamine as a reagent to form a white insoluble precipitate. The damage happens when Melamine combines with Cyanuric Acid to form melamine cyanurate crystals, resulting in kidney damage and the other associated signs.

This may explain the problem, but what can you as a pet owner do about it? How can you protect your pet from the Pet Food Recall, or treat your pet if they’ve consumed contaminated, recalled food?

If your pet has consumed contaminated food, the first thing you should be aware of is the signs of Pet Food Toxicity.

Affected individuals often vomit soon (1-12 hours) after ingesting the food. Some become anorectic and lethargic. Some salivate and have oral ulcerations. Weakness and blood in the urine has also been reported.

Some general signs to watch out for include your cat or dog drinking more water and urinating more often. Your pet may be losing weight, specifically loss of muscle mass, as the kidneys lose protein. As kidney failure advances, your pet may become weak due to anemia. He may have a decreased appetite due to a buildup of toxins in the blood stream. In advanced cases, he will be dehydrated and completely off food. In some pets, kidney disease causes elevated blood pressure, which may affect his eyesight.

Here are a few things you can do if you see any of the above signs. First of all, see your Veterinarian. If your pet is showing any of the above symptoms, have your pet’s blood and urine tested. In some cases, an ultrasound may be needed to confirm the disease.

At home, the most important thing that you can do for your pet is to maintain adequate hydration. Offer lots of fresh water. If your cat isn’t a great water drinker, then make the switch to (safe) canned food.

Another thing you can do is to lower the protein and phosphorus levels your pet receives. Newer research has shown that the most important thing to restrict in early kidney failure is phosphorus. This mineral speeds up destruction of the remaining kidney cells. Stop all dairy products as they are very high in phosphorus. Feed a specific, moderately reduced protein diet, such as a premium quality senior diet, in the early stages.

As kidney failure advances, switch to a restricted protein diet, available from your veterinarian – or use a specific home made diet that is low in protein and phosphorus.

A third treatment you can offer is to add Omega 3 fatty acids to your pet’s diet. The Omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids from fish oil are shown to delay the progression of kidney failure. The dose is one 250mg capsule per 10 lbs of body weight daily.

This article is an excerpt from an online seminar I held on the Pet Food Recall. If you would like a copy of the seminar, in video format, please see my bio and follow the link provided – the seminar (and website) is called the Pet Food Recall Report. I’ve included several home diets and more treatments you can offer your pet, as well as my suggestions for safe commercial foods. I also discuss feeding raw food to your pet as a safe alternative.

Best wishes…

Related items

• Why Would Someone Be Cruel to Their Pet?
• Analyzing Pet Behavior Problems
• How To Spot A Sick Pet
• Can My Pet Fish Get Me Or My Kids Sick?
• Buying a Pet is it Right for You

During these difficult economic times, it is heartbreaking to turn on the television only to see a family taking their beloved “furry family” members to the local shelter, because they can no longer afford to care for them properly.  While most viewers concede they are doing the “responsible” thing by taking their pets to a place they feel can better accommodate their needs, those needs often extend beyond food and shelter.

All too often pets are dropped at shelters because their medical needs exceed what their family has – or is willing to – spend on them.  This is where veterinary pet insurance can be a literal “lifesaver” to families with pets.

Pets, like their human parents, can develop an array of ailments over the course of their lives, ranging from obesity and overactive thyroids to cancer and kidney failure.  Additionally, pets are curious creatures, and some tend to be “accident-prone,” often taking their pet parents to the after-hours emergency clinic.  These veterinary bills can add up, and often take people by surprise, because they had not “budgeted” for these expenses.

Veterinary pet insurance takes the surprise out of the equation.  Many allow pet parents to choose any veterinarian, anywhere.  Additionally, most offer tiered plans as well, ranging from “basic maintenance” (annual check-ups, vaccinations, teeth cleanings, etc.) to “specialist care,” including veterinary specialists, like dermatologists, ophthalmologists, and orthopedists!

Unexpected expenses are covered as well with most pet insurance plans.  Emergencies, surgeries, diagnostic tests and even radiation and chemotherapy are covered under good pet health insurance policies.

Do not put your pet’s health and well-being at risk by being “unprepared” in this increasingly challenging economic climate. Medical expenses for your pet can be comparable to your own, so plan now for the unexpected.  It will give you peace of mind – and your pet will love you for it!

Related items

• What does Pet Insurance Cover?
• Why Would Someone Be Cruel to Their Pet?
• Analyzing Pet Behavior Problems
• How To Spot A Sick Pet
• Can My Pet Fish Get Me Or My Kids Sick?

When discussing pet insurance, many people relegate it to “important ONLY in catastrophic scenarios”, like major surgery – or even cancer – and therefore often do not consider it until their pet begins to age.  However, pet health insurance can be beneficial to pet parents from the time you bring your new, furry family member home!

Certainly, most veterinary pet insurance covers the MAJOR medical expenses your pet may incur over its lifetime – from accidents and injuries, to major illnesses and hospitalization – but did you know that many pet insurance plans also cover annual wellness exams, teeth cleaning, and vaccinations and even spay and neutering expenses as well?  While you may think those costs are minimal in a healthy pet, over his or her lifetime, you might be surprised at how much you will spend on prescription medications, lab tests, treatments and the occasional “after hours” emergency visit (which even the healthiest, most mindful of pets will experience at least once during their tenure with you!)

Beyond the basic coverage that you would expect from your pet insurance policy, some veterinary pet insurance plans also offer specialist care, ranging from an “Eastern approach” to the treatment of your pet (including acupuncture and holistic care) to veterinary specialties including ophthalmology, neurology and dermatology.  Even chiropractic therapy, administered by a licensed veterinarian, is covered under some plans!

Of course, as our pets age (and they do age more quickly than we do), they experience the same aches and pains that we do.  Arthritis, heart disease, cancer, and even kidney failure can affect the quality of life of our furry family members. To diagnose these problems, MRI’s, CAT scans, X-rays and other diagnostic tests are generally required to determine the best treatment plan.  Veterinary pet insurance can significantly help offset these expenses.

Related items

• What To Do When Your Pet Bird Gets Sick
• Veterinary Pet Insurance
• Dog Training â?? Easiest Dogs to Train
• Why Would Someone Be Cruel to Their Pet?
• Dog Behavior Training â?? Choosing a Good Family Dog

There are many different breeds of dog and choosing the right one for you or your family can be a difficult choice as there is several different aspects to consider. This article may help you decide on the one you want by naming the dogs with the best training abilities.

There are no guarantees with which dog breeds will behave in certain ways and there will always be exceptions in every breed of dog but there are many characteristics that you can look out for when finding the correct breed for you, here are some of the top dogs in order of ease to train and how quickly they pick up the different tasks and activities.

Labrador Retriever

The Labrador retriever is a very affectionate dog that takes well to unknown strangers, very friendly and the best of our choice of dogs that are easy to train.

Australian Cattle Dog

The Australian cattle dog is yet another easy breed to train and teach new tricks to due to their passion for learning, not so good with other pets and may be a bad choice if other pets are around at your home.

Sheepdog

Sheepdogs are renowned for being a good well behaved training dog on places such as farms and holdings. Although good and faithful to owners, these dogs donâ??t take so well to other people who are not familiar, if you have many visitors to your home it may be a choice of breed.

Australian Shepherd

This is again a dog with very high drive to learn new things and explore things further but is not as friendly as the Labrador retriever at the top of the list and is not as energetic either, but is a good protector of the home.

Border Collie

The border collie is not as trainer friendly as some of the breeds above but is a very hard working dog with lots of affection and energy. The border collie enjoys challenges and challenging training schedules. If you cannot spare at least an hour of intense exercise this might not be the correct dog breed choice for you.

There are many other dog breeds around, and you may prefer other training breeds so before getting a dog be sure to explore all aspects to make sure the chosen dog is correct for you.

Related items

• Dog Training â?? Train a Dog to Fetch
• Dog Behavior Training â?? Choosing a Good Family Dog
• Dog Training – Old Dogs
• Dog Training â?? Dog Crate Training
• Dog Training â?? Dog Punishments