|
|
July 16, 2010
Unfortunately allergies affect dogs and their owners alike. They are a lot more common than people believe. From food allergies, flea allergies, and even allergies to grass, pets today are exposed to a wider range of potential allergens in their environment.
The way in which allergic reactions are presented can and will vary between each dog. However, the majority of allergic reactions will take the form of dermal itching. In severe cases dogs might develop upper respiratory reactions in the form of sneezing, coughing, and discharge from their eyes and nose. Dogs who fail to receive adequate treatment for their allergic reactions could develop a more severe cough coupled with a wheeze that could ultimately develop into pneumonia. Dogs with skin reactions to their allergens are prone to hair loss and almost obsessive chewing that can leave them with open sores in an effort to ease the itchiness. Dogs with large ears that fold over, like Labradors, Golden Retrievers and Shih Tzus are known to develop an increased buildup of yeast in their ears, as a reaction to an allergen, which will oftentimes develop into an infection.
Your first course of treatment should be a visit to your veterinarian who can perform a range of simple blood or skin tests to determine the type of allergy involved. In the case of a suspected food allergen, your veterinarian may suggest a restricted food elimination diet for your dog and place him on a prescription non-allergen food until you can determine what the allergen is. Once the allergen has been identified, it is then a matter of removing it from your dog’s environment or food. Treatment can include over the counter antihistamines to help provide relief from the itchiness; in more severe cases your veterinarian is likely to suggest a course of treatment that involves steroids.
Whatever the cause, the best course of treatment for your dog is one that will provide relief from the misery caused by allergies.
Published By: Sarah @ 9:32 am
July 5, 2010
While everyone knows the story of Michael Vick’s involvement in the world of dog fighting and his horrific abuse of animals, there is good reason to thank Michael Vick for his accidental contribution to pit bull rescue efforts.
Prior to the day that 47 American Pit Bull Terriers were seized from Vick’s Virginia home, there was no example of a large number of such dogs, who had been bred to fight and then abused most of their lives, being rehabilitated.
That changed when a judge ignored the advice from PETA and other groups and allowed 22 of the most difficult of Vick’s dogs to be sent to a Utah animal sanctuary called Best Friends. One of Vick’s dogs had to be put down because of poor health and 25 were able to be placed in homes.
Some of those dogs are now therapy dogs, agility competitors and family pets. The 22 sent to Best Friends are the reason to believe that some good could actually come from the horror that took place behind that Virginia mansion.
What would become of these 22 dogs that were too unstable to place in homes? PETA said that there was no hope for such dogs. They said that they could never be rehabilitated to the point that they would not be dangerous. They said the only answer was to put all of them down.
Best Friends, which has dubbed these dogs their “Vicktory Dogs”, is proving that theory wrong. Even the worst of the worse cases – Lucas and Georgia – are enjoying their time as pampered pooches. While those two dogs can never be adopted, and must live the rest of their lives at the sanctuary, there is no indication of their extremely violent pasts. They love their caregivers and are enjoying their days filled with romping and playing.
Many of the other Vick dogs that were sent to Best Friends will likely be able to move from the sanctuary to the home of a family. The long term success of these dogs is due to Vick.
In the future, when judges will be able to look back at this case and see proof that even pit bulls that have been chained, fought and otherwise abused can go on to be good family pets, therapy dogs and pass the AKC developed Canine Good Citizen Test. Those judges will be much less likely to make blanket judgments regarding these wonderful dogs.
Best Friends is helping to prove to the world that pit bulls can be rehabilitated, no matter how horrible their backgrounds.
Animal lovers everywhere can hope that when people look back on the tragic story of the Vick dog fighting ring that what everyone remembers most is that many of the dogs went on to be wonderful pets. They do not need to written off as un-savable.
Thank you Michael Vick.
Published By: Sarah @ 12:50 am
June 24, 2010
There is a common misconception amongst pet owners that pets will eat whatever is put in front of them. The reality is that some pets are a lot more selective over their diet, either due to their nature and nutritional needs or simply because they don’t like what you are offering them. This is true for dogs, cats or the more exotic pets.
When you notice that your dog or cat appears to be refusing food and then losing weight, your first step should be to contact your veterinarian to rule out any possible illness. Many can cause a decreased appetite and an extreme weight loss. Teeth or mouth issues can also be the cause of a pet’s refusal to eat.
Once illness has been ruled out, then you can start to determine what it is about the food that is causing the refusal to eat.
-Have you changed the type of food or started adding vitamins or supplements to the food? A change in the flavor of the food you provide to your cat or dog can certainly cause a refusal to eat it! Adding vegetables or even a vitamin additive can dramatically change the taste of the food.
-Have you changed the food bowls? It might not seem like it could be a factor, but changing food bowls from a ceramic to a plastic bowl (or the other way around) can certainly put pets off of their food while they try to adjust to the new smell and feel of their bowls.
-Have you introduced a new pet into the household? The addition of a new pet can be a major factor in a pet’s refusal to eat. Any major changes in the household are likely to disrupt your pets comfort levels. Consider separating your picky-eater from the new addition to see if it helps.
-Is your pet eating something other than their food? Could your dog be eating your cat’s food or too many treats before you offer their own food
If you’ve ruled out these factors and still can’t figure out the reason for your pet’s fussiness, then you should certainly contact your veterinarian for more suggestions to see if another type of food is perhaps the key solution.
Published By: Sarah @ 12:47 am
June 13, 2010
Anyone who has ever owned a pit bull knows that there are many misconceptions about the breed. Some are unable to find an apartment that allows pit bulls. Homeowners are sometimes unable to get insurance if they have a pit bull. They are banned in some dog parks and there are even entire cities that ban the breed. Much of this is due to some common myths about pit bulls. Below is a brief discussion about some of the most common.
Pit Bulls Have a Locking Jaw
This would almost be laughable if it did not contribute to the unfair bad reputation of pit bulls. The anatomy of a pit bull, including the functionality of the jaw, is exactly the same as all other dogs. It does not feature a locking mechanism nor can a pit bull clamp down with the front teeth while chewing with the back, which is another myth.
Pit Bulls are Human Aggressive
The opposite is true. For those who love to hate pit bulls, the discussion usually starts back in the days when the dogs were first bred to be used in bull baiting and fighting. During this time human aggression was bred OUT of pit bulls. The handlers had to be able to control the dogs. They didn’t want to live in constant fear of being attacked, so human aggression was bred out.
Let’s look at temperament testing which judges, among other things, a dog’s aggression toward humans and other animals.
The general passing rate for all breeds is about 77%. Pit bulls, however, achieve a passing rate of over 83%! That means that pit bulls pass on a higher scale than the average of all other breeds.
Pit Bulls Feel No Pain
Many dog lovers wish this were true. That would make it much easier to bear the horror stories of how these beautiful dogs are abused in so many ways. The truth, however, is that pit bulls, like all dogs, do feel pain.
They feel pain in the exact same way as other breeds. There is no built in numbing agent that allows them to keep fighting to the death. Instead, it is their loyalty and obedience that causes them to continue on no matter the pain that they are in.
Their Brains Swell Causing them to Suddenly Be More Aggressive
In the 1970’s Doberman Pinschers were the dogs considered most dangerous. In the 1980’s it was Rottweiler’s. When it became the pit bulls turn for this unfortunate title, the dog inherited some of the myths that once belonged to the former title holders.
It was once thought that Dobermans brains would swell causing a sudden outburst of violence that would leave a trail of corpses. Now some say this about pit bulls. It wasn’t true then, and it’s not true now.
There are many other pit bull myths. Just remember that pit bulls are the same as any other breed of dog and in the hands of loving and capable owners, they make wonderful and loyal family pets.
Published By: Sarah @ 1:00 am
June 6, 2010
A quick look through most classified ads or a glance at the bulletin boards in pet stores and vet clinics usually provide plenty of opportunities to buy pit bulls puppies and dogs. The prices usually range from about $200 to well over $1000. But why buy a pit bull when there are thousands sitting in shelters all over the country just waiting for their chance at a home? Below are some of the benefits of adopting versus buying a pit bull.
But I Want a Puppy!
While it may be difficult to find puppies of certain breeds in shelters, that is not the case with pit bulls. There are very often multiple litters of pit bull puppies just waiting for a home. Call your local animal shelters to see if they have any pit bull puppies. If they don’t, they will likely be happy to take your name and call you when the next litter arrives, which it inevitably will.
Temperament Testing
Breeders, especially unethical breeders, just want to sell dogs. They do not bother with temperament testing that could help you decide if a certain dog is a good fit for your family.
When you adopt a pit bull from a shelter, it will most certainly have undergone temperament testing. This testing will help ensure that the pet will be a good fit in a home with children or other dogs or cats.
Pit bull rescue groups usually have their adoptable bullies living in home environments, which provide another great opportunity to get to know their personalities. If you apply to adopt from a pit bull rescue group, they will take all the factors of your home life in to consideration when matching you with the perfect pittie for you.
Cost
One of the most obvious benefits of adopting instead of buying is the cost. The cost of buying a pit bull from a breeder was mentioned above. The cost to adopt is, on average, from $75 to $150. This often includes the dog’s first shots, spay or neuter and a microchip.
Unethical Breeders
When you buy a pit bull there is a chance that you are supporting an unethical breeder, commonly known as a puppy mill. There are certainly ethical breeders, but unless you plan to show your dog, there is no benefit to buying over adopting.
If you do buy a dog from a puppy mill, then you are supporting the abuse and neglect of animals. When you adopt, you never have to wonder about the integrity of a breeder.
Save a Life
All of the above reasons to adopt instead of buying pale in comparison to this: You will be saving a life. Some estimates say 4 to 5 MILLION animals are put down in shelters each year simply because there are not enough homes for all of them. Up to 1.5 million of these alone are pit bulls and pit bull mixes.
When you adopt, you do your part to stop this tragedy and give a pet a richly deserved second chance.
Some Resources for Adopting In the Atlanta Area:
Friends to the Forlorn Pitbull
Shelter Angels Pit Bull Rescue
K9 Rescue League
Published By: Sarah @ 11:11 pm
May 25, 2010
Unbeknownst to many pet owners, your household can contain many items that are hazardous and even deadly to the pets that share your home. Some of the items that may seem perfectly benign may, in fact, hold the largest threat to your pets.
Food Items
Sharing food off of your plate with your pets is rarely a good idea. Not only does it foster bad begging habits with your pet but it can also expose them to food products that are potential toxins or even allergens. Many pets develop, over the course of their lifetime, severe food allergies that need to be controlled in an effort to keep your pets as healthy as is possible. Foods that should never be offered to your pets include chocolate, grapes (or raisins), coffee, chewing gum, onion, mustard seeds and even salt. For a complete list of foods that are toxic to your pets, you should talk to your veterinarian. Your vet can also provide you with a list of foods that can be potential allergens for your pets.
Cleaning Products
In general, most household cleaners are able to be safely used around your pets. Carefully following the manufacturers recommended usage instructions will ensure that your house is clean while still keeping your pets safe. Pets should be kept away from direct contact with the cleaning products so be sure that you keep them away from areas that are still damp and that you carefully store all cleaning products away safely out of the reach of nosy pets. If you have any concerns about your household cleaners and their toxicity to your pets then you should consider cleaning your home with vinegar or one of the other environmentally friendly cleaning products available on the market.
Be certain that you also store any insecticides and poisons away safely out of the reach of your pets. With a bit of care you will be able to ensure that your home remain as safe as possible for your four legged companions!
Published By: Sarah @ 10:44 pm
May 17, 2010
Despite our best intentions and efforts at keeping our pets secured, it is an inescapable fact that thousands of beloved pets are lost each and every year because they get out of our homes or our yards. While a sturdy collar with an identification tag attached to it is an important measure to take, a microchip is perhaps the best form of defense you have against potentially losing your pet forever.
A pet identification microchip, about the size of a regular grain of rice, is implanted under your pet’s skin by a veterinarian. Every microchip has its own registration number, along with a telephone number for the registry containing all of the pets’ details; including ownership contact details. In the event that your pet is lost and picked up by animal control or by an animal rescue group, they will likely scan your pet with a handheld scanner to locate a microchip which will then aid in providing all of your details to help return your pet to you. Your pet may also be found and brought to a veterinarian office, where it will be scanned.
When your pet is microchipped, you will receive paperwork and an identification card (along with a tag for your pet’s collar) that will provide you with all of the details pertaining to the microchipping registry. Be certain that you access your account with the registry as soon as possible to ensure that the information on file is the most up to date contact information for you; this can often be done online or over the phone. If you move or change phone numbers, don’t forget to update the registry!
For more information related to the microchipping of your pet you should be sure to speak to your veterinarian. A microchipped pet is a pet that is more likely to be returned home!
Published By: Sarah @ 8:30 am
May 6, 2010
Imagine it is 1910 and a young family is in need of a family pet. The kids have been begging for a dog, so the parents surprise them by bringing home the most popular family dog of that time. What breed do you imagine it was? A Labrador? A Golden Retriever? No, the most popular family dog of the early 20th century was the American Pit Bull Terrier.
These dogs were so loyal, obedient and eager to please that they were dubbed the “Nanny dogs” because of the careful watch they kept over the young members of a family.
These dogs were so popular with the general population that many big businesses realized their appeal and chose to feature the dogs in their advertising campaigns. The most well-known example of a pit bull in advertising is the image of a pit bull sitting next to an RCA Victrola. This iconic image is only one of many examples of pit bulls in advertising.
Some may wonder why anyone would want these vicious dogs being included in their family life. The answer is quite simple. They were not and are not vicious dogs. While it is true that hundreds of years ago pit bulls were used for bull baiting and dog fighting, that is not a testament about the dogs, but about the people who handled them.
The horrific “sport” of cockfighting is also quite popular in some areas, but no one assumes that the birds used are especially vicious. Why then should it be assumed that dogs forced to fight are vicious?
No one worried for the safety of the child stars on the television show The Little Rascals. Their well-known dog, Petey, was a pit bull. It was also a pit bull that kept Helen Keller company for many years of her life. Her much loved pet, named Sir Thomas, is one of many examples of pit bulls owned by famous people. There were even pit bulls that held the title of “First Dog”. Theodore Roosevelt and Woodrow Wilson both owned pit bulls. General Patton did as well and it is no wonder considering the most decorated dog of any war was a pit bull named Stubby. A few other “pitties” in the limelight are owned by Jon Stewart, Alicia Silverstone, Rachael Ray, Jessica Biel, and Jessica Alba, to name a few.
Pit bulls were popular features on greeting cards, post cards and even made the cover of Life magazine three times. People understood this dog’s loyalty and eagerness to please made them wonderful family pets. Unfortunately, it is that same eagerness to please that causes them to be willing to fight. In the hands of the wrong owners, these dogs can be made to fight to the death.
That doesn’t mean that the wonderful family dog of the early 20th century no longer exists. Instead it means that some people have chosen to take advantage of the loyalty of some of these beautiful creatures. It’s a testament to the evil of man, not of a particular breed of dog.
A great resource for more information on pit bulls is Pit Bull Rescue Central.
Published By: Sarah @ 10:57 am
May 3, 2010
The Atlanta area is home to many dog parks that can provide hours of off leash fun for dogs of all shapes and sizes. Pet parents will find dog parks to be more than a place to let your dogs release pent up energy; they can also be a wonderful place to meet new people who share your love of dogs.
If you are new to the area, you will find a dog park a great place to receive recommendations from other dog owners. Whether you are looking for a new vet or the location of the best place to buy organic pet treats, consulting with like-minded pet owners is a great way to get the scoop of all things pet related.
There are a few things that you should take into consideration before you pay a visit to your nearest dog park:
- Be sure that your dog is current on all of his vaccinations; on the off chance that your dog is bitten by another at the park who may not be completely vaccinated, you will have the reassurance that your dog will be protected.
- Ensure that your dog’s tags have current information, including his valid rabies tag and his identification tag that displays a valid phone number for you. Just in case!
- Be absolutely certain that your dog will respond to your commands should you need to call him to you or tell him to stay; an unruly dog is certain to be an unpopular dog at any dog park.
- Take plenty of tennis balls or Frisbees; throwing one for your dog is sure to grab the interest of several other dogs so you may find yourself either losing one to another dog or needing to throw several tennis balls all at one time!
Your well-behaved and well-mannered dog will have a wonderful time interacting with the other dogs and people he will meet at the dog park so pack up your pup, leash, some fresh water, and head out to your nearest dog park. It is certain to be a fun day for all!
Published By: Sarah @ 11:11 pm
April 1, 2010
Choosing a pet sitter is a big decision. You will be leaving your beloved dog in the hands of someone else and trusting them to visit your home, feed your dog, play with him, and know what to do if there should be an emergency. How do you find the perfect pet sitter?
There are some basic approaches to finding a good pet sitter:
1. Ask around. If you have friends or family who have used a pet sitter in the past, find out who they used and if they would recommend them. The advantage of using someone that is known to your friends and family is that this person comes with a built-in recommendation.
2. Check with your vet. Your vet sees a wide assortment of pets in your community. They also know many pet professionals. They may be able to recommend a good pet sitter. The same is true of your pet groomer and other people you see regularly for your dog’s care.
3. Check bulletin boards. Many pet sitters advertise on the bulletin boards at vet offices, pet groomers’ shops, dog supply stores and other pet-related businesses. This is a good way to make a connection with a pet sitter but it does not provide you with a recommendation about the pet sitter’s abilities.
4. Check your phone book for local pet sitters.
5. Check online for local pet sitters. Superpages.com often lists pet sitters (and other pet professionals) in local areas.
6. You can check with Professional United Pet Sitters , the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters , and Pet Sitters International to find professional pet sitters in your area. Simply type in your area code or other information about your locality and they should be able to offer suggestions.
Once you have found some likely pet sitting candidates there are some things you should ask them before you hire them. You need to discuss the following subjects with your potential pet sitters:
- Is the pet sitter insured?
- Can they provide references?
- You should check with other local pet professional businesses in your area to find out about the pet sitters reputation.
- You should ask to see the contract for pet sitting services.
- Make sure that you understand the costs and what services are included.
- Ask the pet sitter about their pet education and if they have and certification or accreditation.
- Do they know first aid for pets?
- Do they belong to any professional organizations such as a professional pet sitting group or other pet care group?
- Is there a backup plan in case the pet sitter has a personal emergency? Who will take care of your dog?
- Is the pet sitter properly licensed?
You should also ask questions about how the pet sitter interacts with your particular dog. Have they cared for a Greater Shantung Westheimer before? (Insert your breed.) Do they know how to care for them? How many times per day will they be coming to your house? Will they be staying at your house? And so on. Make sure you cover all of the details of their care of your dog, especially if your dog has any special needs.
Whew! It’s a lot of information to cover but you will be gone and you will be asking someone else to take care of your dog — you can’t be too careful. You should interview a pet sitter just as you would interview a baby sitter or anyone applying for an important job.
It’s best if you start trying to find a pet sitter far in advance. Not only will it take you some time to choose a pet sitter but good pet sitters can be hard to find. Good pet sitters can book up early.
If you follow these suggestions you should be able to find a good pet sitter in your area. Make sure you have several phone numbers so you can reach them at various times. No matter how much confidence you have in them you will probably want to check in frequently.
6 Steps To Find The Perfect Dog Sitter courtesy of Dog Articles
Published By: Sarah @ 12:14 am
« Newer Posts
|
|
