Spring Showers Bring…Pet Thunderstorm Phobia?
Does your cat or dog run for the hills when a thunderstorm’s a brewing? “Thunderstorm Phobia” is very common in pets. Different animals may display different signs of this phobia which include:
Choosing Your Four-Legged Family Member
Does your two-legged kid need a four-legged playmate? Choosing the right dog breed for your family can be a difficult task! In addition to the dog’s breed, a dog’s personality, size and energy level are all important. They should compliment your family’s unique lifestyle!
They Say it’s Your Birthday…
Celebrating your dog’s birthday is just another way to pay tribute to your favorite furry friend. By throwing your dog a birthday party, you can say “thank you” for being a beloved companion. Not sure of their exact birth date? No biggie – simply make the day you adopted them their birthday, or count back how many weeks old they are if you adopted them young.
Thank You Letter: Hagerman
Dear Dr. Schrader,
It’s hard to believe that it’s been almost six years since Hagerman’s “cauda equina” surgery! I know I thanked you and the staff at the time, but I wanted to let you know, six years on, what a wonderful treat it has been getting my dog back and having all this extra time with him! He has been such a great dog, wonderful temperament and terrific companion. He loves being around kids and other dogs, and I cannot tell you how many people have remarked about him over the years. I am definitely /his/ entourage.
Pretty Kitty
Tired of accessorizing with cat hair? No matter if you own a short- or long-haired cat, your house is probably filled with “kitty tumbleweeds” that roll across the floor when you walk. Your couch and chairs probably exhibit a thin layer of calico over top its cushions.
Kicking the Pet Flu to the Curb
Achoo! Has the flu season caught up with you? What about your pet? Believe it or not, your pet can get the flu too. It’s actually pretty common!
Antifreeze: The Sweet Poison
Antifreeze and its poisonous, sweet-tasting ingredient, ethylene-glycol, is highly toxic to animals. The best way to avoid antifreeze poisoning in your pet is to prevent it, obviously, but that’s easier said than done…
Obesity In Pets
Obesity has become an increased issue for our pets. According to the Banfield State of Pet Health 2012 Report, body weight has increased 37 percent in dogs and 90 percent in cats over the past 5 years. Here are 14 obesity related problems:
- decreased life span
- diabetes
- joint problems such as arthritis
- heart disease
- fatigue
- immune system problems
#26acts of Animal Kindness
The Sandy Hook school shooting was a true American tragedy. In our country’s darkest hour, many people are finding the light again by performing random acts of kindness for family, friends and even strangers. In fact, “#26acts,” in honor of the 26 victims, is trending on Twitter and documenting this good deed movement.
So, why not participate in #26acts and perform a good deed for an animal? Here are 26 basic ideas to get you started:
- Report animal cruelty
- Inform others about animal cruelty so they can report it also
- Volunteer at a local shelter
- Become an animal activist and lobby for animals in need
- Donate to a local shelter or an animal rescue organization like the ASPCA
- Pet sit for a family member, friend or neighbor
Keeping Kitty Kozy
Baby, it’s cold outside! But it doesn’t have to be for your outdoor cats. When temps hover around the freezing mark, make sure your outdoor kitties have a comfortable place to seek refuge. Outdoor cats are more prone to respiratory illness and other medical conditions, and these can become life-threatening when a cat becomes cold and wet. Outdoor shelters are surprisingly easy and inexpensive to make! Here’s how:
