A veterinarian explains why and when pets need to have their teeth and mouths examined. By Dr. Greg McGrath   Cats and dogs need proper dental care throughout their lives in order to enjoy the longest, healthiest lives possible. Caring for oral health can make a big difference in your pets' quality of life, especially as they get old...

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 After a recent visit to Floyd County Animal Control I would like to commend the staff on the great job they do investigating animal cruelty, catching strays, encouraging adoptions and helping reunite lost pets with their owners. It is an important job. One thing greatly disturbs me. People in the community are allowed to surrender a whole ...

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 Source: CNN   Do you rejoice at the sound of barking but cower at a meow? Or do you look at a cat and feel an instant sibling-style connection?   With the proliferation of Web sites cultivating photos and videos of animals doing cute things, it's easier than ever to get your daily fix of the pet variety you have, or wish you had...

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 IFyou’ve got pets, chances are you’ll want to include them in your family’s celebrations this Christmas. In your head you’ve probably imagined the dog looking cute in antlers, behaving impeccably around your guests – possibly even handing round canapés from a tray on his back.  Sadly, in reality, Fido’s so wound up with all the exc...

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Pet owners should not believe everything they hear about their furry friends, a U.S. veterinarian advises.   "It is important for pet owners to separate urban legends from the truth when caring for their pets," Mark Nunez, of Animal Medical Center in Van Nuys, Calif., and president of the California Veterinary Medical Association, ...

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 The economy may be in the doghouse, but the joy of giving to our pets hasn't diminished. Here are some new products to consider this holiday season: Poor Harvie the Rabbit, Knute the Moose and Sheldon the Squirrel look reminiscent of road kill; these super-tough, flat-as-a-pancake, over-sized plush squeaky toys are particularly appealing t...

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Temperatures have dropped to below freezing, and the Seattle Humane Society offers some suggestions to pet lovers to keep their furry friends safe and warm.   "Pets belong inside with the rest of the family," said Brenda Barnette, chief executive officer for the Seattle Humane Society. "Don't be fooled into thinking that their fur coats wi...

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 Will the age-old rivalry between dogs and cats be settled? New Scientist has examined studies on both animals in a range of categories: ·         Brains (despite the recent studies on dogs' intelligence, the magazine gives the win to cats for having more neurons in the cortex) ...

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 By Sharon L. Peters, Special for USA TODAY   As pet-obsessed as we've become as a nation, it's stunning to me how many kids (and adults for that matter) have no idea how to approach an animal they've never met. In the last week, my gentlest-of-gentle-dogs Jasper has endured a rear-end surprise swat from a boy (who wasn't being ...

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 Every year since the author wrote "A Puppy For Christmas" it has been reprinted in countless animal rescue and shelter newsletters to encourage the public to carefully consider before adding a pet to the family, and asking the public to realize that a pet requires a lifetime commitment. Now, because of the economic recession, America and C...

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Q:  I found fleas on my dog this morning.  I’ve never had a problem before.  I used Frontline for ticks this spring but stopped in July.  Will Frontline work for fleas?   A:  Fleas usually not much of a problem in Northern Wisconsin, but certain years seem to be worse than others, and this year has been a bad on...

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 By DR. WILLIAM K. FAUKS    Q: Our family dog, a mixed golden retriever, is only 4 years old but is increasingly showing signs of arthritis. She limps badly and is quite stiff when she first gets up in the morning, or after a nap, but tends to loosen up some after a little exercise. Isn’t this rare for a dog this young? We’ve ...

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Ear Infection or Otitis externa is the inflammation of the external ear that extends up to the ear canal. This is more commonly known as the "swimmer's ear" and occurs both on human and animals. It is more prevalent on dogs with long floppy ears such as Cocker Spaniels.  Otitis externa can be caused by fungi, bacteria or parasites present i...

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 By JORDAN KALK Bismarck Tribune   When a person scolds their dog for digging in the trash, the thought of a possible dangerous situation for the pet isn’t usually the first to race through the owner’s mind. The holiday season is particularly hard on pets. Holiday foods and other items they consume often lead to hazardous situations....

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 What do cats do when we're away? The "cat-cam" was designed to reveal just that. (And, apparently, it's not all that much different than what they do when we're here....) Fifty house cats were given collar cameras that took a photo every 15 minutes, in this study of sorts for Nestle Purina. Based on the photos, about 22 percent of the cat...

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The most responsible pet owners can sometimes suffer unspeakable loss through lack of knowledge. Rebecca Lombardo did. And it may be a long time before she forgives herself for, well, for just not knowing something that is unknown to millions of other cat owners. She'd like to think that sharing her story will inform some people who have the sam...

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 Q: We sometimes find ticks on our dog. Do we need to get her a Lyme vaccine? — Sarah K., Essex, Mass. A: There are various kinds of ticks common to Cape Ann, including the deer tick which carries Lyme disease. These ticks infect dogs when they are attached and feeding. Dogs cannot pass the infection to other people or pets. ...

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 Having a pet can meet many human psychosocial needs and has been undervalued in the field of mental health, says the author of a comprehensive review of human-pet bonds published today in the journal Family Process. The research, by Dr. Froma Walsh of the Center for Family Health at the University of Chicago, finds that pets provide s...

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 One of the warm fuzzies of Christmas is having a child open a box and have an adorable puppy, kitten, or gerbil jump out. Experts warn, however, that introducing a new animal into a household during a peak period of excitement, when life is hectic and guests coming and going, is stressful for animals who have just left their familiar world a...

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By AMELIA GLYNN TAILS OF THE CITY Even though more than 90 percent of families consider their pets to be important members of their pack, animals can easily get lost in the hectic holiday shuffle. Dr. Suzanne Hetts, the certified animal behaviorist behind PetSmart's "If Your Pet Could Talk program," offers these tips for helping furry family m...

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 By Jacques Von Lunen   Ah, the holiday season: Time to carve a turkey, put up a tree and visit far-flung relatives. None of which is much fun for pets. Here are some tips to make the next six weeks less daunting for Fido and Fluffy.  Travel by car: Planes are stuffed with people and luggage during the holidays, making...

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BY ROGER SMITH   Q: I've heard that I shouldn't feed my pets a food that has corn in it because most pets are allergic to it. Is this true, and what signs would my pets show if they were allergic to corn?   A: Although corn seems to have a bad reputation with some pet food retailers, it isn't one of the more common ingredients known...

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 Source: Wall Street Journal Personal Finance By STEPHEN KREIDER YODER, ISAAC S. YODER and LEVI YODER   LEVI: A week ago, after making my lunch and packing my backpack, I went downstairs to Tex, our mutt. He was on his bed; I went to pet him, but he wouldn't get up. It got even worse. Instead of running into the ...

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 Source:  Paw Prints Dr. Heidi Bassler   It is November, and the holiday season is about to begin. We like the food, fun and celebrations. But we're in New England, and it's getting cold outside. What about Fido and Fluffy? Your furry family member has special needs this time of year. Common misperceptions can mislead pet p...

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By Christie Keith   We love our cats for their mysterious ways -- until that mystery hides serious health problems. It's a lesson that Dawn Hoffmann learned the hard way. One minute, everything in her two-cat household seemed perfectly normal. The next, she realized her 7-year-old black and white cat, Champ, seemed a little too quiet....

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During the month of October 2009, the Center's for Disease Control reported that pets, whether in a leash or running free, can contract swine flu from human and animal carriers. Additionally, the CDC and other sources give ways to keep your pet from becoming infected with H1N1.  "We've known certainly it's possible this [animals w]...

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 The Toronto Humane Society supports the urgent call to action to combat the heartworm crisis in Ontario made yesterday by the Hamilton Academy of Veterinary Medicine (HAVM) and the Ontario Veterinary Medical Association (OVMA). Our own veterinarians tell us that heartworm can be painful, treatment can be risky and extensive, and th...

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 A purebred boxer was found wandering the streets and is now up for adoption at the San Jose Animal Care Center. Shelter operations supervisor Staycee Dains knows he has an owner. With one scan she found an ID microchip implanted between his shoulder blades. "They gave us a name and an address that's outdated," she says. Same with this pood...

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 Source: New York Times   Q: Hello there. I have a question I have been asking myself and peers about the swine flu. My question is, can pets such as dogs, cats and birds receive the swine flu? I am deeply concerned and would really appreciate it if I could get an answer back. Thank you, Lizzie   Q: My son has the ...

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 Officials Say Male Cat in Iowa is First to Catch H1N1   Source: ABC News   An unidentified male cat in Iowa is believed to be the first in the nation diagnosed with the H1N1 virus, sparking concerns that pets may transmit the swine flu or that frightened pet owners may abandon their cats in droves.   The 13-ye...

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Having a pet may soon save you money on your taxes. A bill currently in the House Ways and Means Committee offers a tax credit up to $3,500 for anyone who owns a “domesticated” pet. You could claim a deduction on your taxes based on how much money you spend on “qualified pet care expenses.” The bill does not currently outline what cons...

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 Dogs and cats may not know what trick-or-treat means, but that familiar Halloween greeting is enough to send our pets scooting under the bed or diving for the nearest closet — if we're lucky. If the animals really panic, they might rush out the door. One of the most favorite holidays for kids — all that free candy! — is probably the second l...

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 As you get ready for the parade of ghouls and goblins this Halloween, the Sequoia Humane Society urges pet owners to follow a few simple precautions to keep their pets safe: * No chocolate: Even if your pet has a sweet tooth, ingesting chocolate -- especially baker's and dark chocolate -- can be dangerous for dogs and cats, possibly causing ...

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 By HELEN PALMER Source: AMNews.com   A reader sent me an e-mail asking that I remind everyone that Halloween will be at the end of this week and the family pet cats and dogs are in danger. If you are wondering what danger, I will remind you that many animal shelters will not put their cats up for adoption the week before this holid...

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No one knows what will happen to the 24 dogs and roughly 100 cats currently housed in the inland Humane Society animal shelter in Redwood Valley if the shelter has to close its doors. "I really don't think we can make it six months if we don't raise some funds," shelter director Sheryl Mitcham said. Donations are down while the number of animals ...

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Source: Jacksonville.com   Halloween is a lot of fun for families, particularly for children.  However, it is important to protect your pet from some safety hazards this Oct. 31.  Here are a few things to watch out for this Halloween: • Keep pets away from all Halloween candy As most pet owners already know, chocolate is t...

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 When Laurie Kay put her face over Benny the boxer's jowls last month and administered life-saving CPR she looked like a hero. It takes a brave individual to smooch up on a dog. Turns out most people would do the same for their pet puppy or kitty. More than half of pet owners -- 58 percent -- said they would be at least somewhat li...

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 By Dr. Chris Rainey   Diabetes mellitus, or DM, occurs in an estimated one out of every 500 dogs and one out of every 400 cats. DM usually occurs in middle-aged dogs (6 to 9 years) with females being three times more likely to develop the condition than males. The most commonly affected breeds include German shepherd dogs, schnauze...

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 You know your dog or cat can almost always cheer you up after a bad day. But did you know that pets may bring other health benefits to their owners, as well? Research into human-animal bonds is still in its infancy, and many of its conclusions are based on anecdotal evidence, says the National Institutes of Health (NIH). But a growi...

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 The traditional belief that childhood asthma is linked to pets or the modern obsession with hygiene has been established as untrue by a new study. The study ‘Asthma in Australian Children’, published by the Institute of Health and Welfare, revealed that kids with allergies to any kind of food, grass or bees were twice as prone...

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 Source: WSJ Blogs   How do the minds of dogs really work? Researchers at the Duke Canine Cognition Center, at Harvard and other labs around the world are trying to find out, according to a story on Time magazine’s Web site. The rule of thumb in studying dog behavior is not to think your dog can do things just because it lo...

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 Fall can be a problem time for pets. Ragweed and falling leaves can trigger allergies, making dogs itchy and miserable.  Lady has a problem. "She does it all the time, anywhere, anytime. If she's itchy, she'll just scratch herself," Rachel Rosenblatt said. "She scratches every hour of the day. She'll even scratch at midnight and wake ...

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 Q: I would love for a veterinarian to provide some realistic ideas for getting meds into a cat - besides pilling them (yeah, right) and shooting a syringe down their throat (good luck). One workable idea came from a friend who said to dissolve the meds in canned tuna water and let the cat lap it up. That works, but there must be better i...

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 By Nicholas Lansing   Moving can be hectic for us, so imagine what all the mysterious commotion is like for our cats. "Any time you're preparing for a move, the cat is going to sense it the minute you start packing," explains Tracy R. Dewhirst, DVM, pet columnist for the Knoxville News Sentinel in Tennessee. "Keep their lif...

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 Source: Seattle Humane Society   Neutered pets live a longer, healthier life.  Spaying and neutering virtually eliminates breast and uterine cancer, testicular cancer, and prostate disease if performed before six months of age. Your female animal won't go into heat.  Spay pets are freed from the constant need to roam a...

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Some say it's worse this year because of rainfall As cooler fall weather arrives, will this year's flea season finally loosen its bite on pets and people? Nope. Scratch that idea. Experts agree North Alabama faces at least another 60 days of furious flea activity. It turns out that fleas (heart) fall. No big surprise there, but is this ye...

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Trick or doggie treat? Either way, patience is the key to the perfect shot   Source: MSNBC   It's almost Oct. 31, and that means your pets will soon be tricked out in all their Halloween finery. Professional animal photographer Sam Allen gives us the following tips for taking great photos of your costumed friend. Patience is key, s...

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 Source: ABC News   By EMILY FRIEDMAN   They're just as friendly and just as furry, but black dogs sitting in animal shelters are often overlooked by prospective pet owners, according to animal rescue professionals who have dubbed the problem the "black dog syndrome."   "What we've learned is that lar...

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 Source: Canwest News Service   Celebrating Halloween is fun for children and adults alike, but the night of ghosts and goblins can be dangerous for family pets, warns the BC SPCA. "Loud noises from fireworks, the constant ring of the doorbell by trick-or-treaters and the presence of costumed strangers in the neighbourhood can all ca...

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 Source: USA Today   By Marilyn Krieger   Two out of three veterinarians recommend keeping cats indoors, according to a study commissioned by the Humane Society of the United States.   The two most-cited reasons: dangers from vehicles and transmittable diseases. The consensus is that cats live healthier and longer w...

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 Source: Health News Digest   If you have both a pet and pet allergies, you don’t have to give up your pet. Pet lovers can take steps to reduce allergy-induced misery, according to What to do About Allergies, a newly revised Special Health Report from Harvard Medical School. Pet allergies are caused by tiny proteins in pet dander and...

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 If you think dogs can’t get the same illnesses and diseases as humans, then you are barking up the wrong tree because your dog can get any illness that a human would. Diabetes is not different in dogs than it is in humans because your dog can still suffer a lot. This can be a life threatening disease in dogs and if you don’t catch the sy...

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 When Chad, a yellow Labrador retriever, moved in with Claire Vaccaro’s family in Manhattan last spring, he already had an important role. As an autism service dog, he was joining the family to help protect Ms. Vaccaro’s 11-year-old son, Milo — especially in public, where he often had tantrums or tried to run away.   Like ma...

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Cat trainer Gregory Popovich answered several questions readers asked about troublesome cat behaviors ranging from defecating outside the litter box to biting and crying in the middle of the night.   "A key to understanding cats," Gregory Popovich writes in his new book "You Can Train Your Cat (St. Martin's Griffin, $14.99) "is they think th...

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 By Isabelle Hamel, Special for USA TODAY   Acquiring a pet should be life-enriching, but as with any relationship with long-term expectations, a potential pet owner must take stock of what it takes to make a perfect match.   What's your motivation? Pets play many roles in our lives. Think about your reasons for bringing an an...

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 Source: USA Today   How do pets help us? Let us count the ways -- and keep counting, researchers say.   The University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine Research Center for Human-Animal Interaction (ReCHAI) will explore the ways animals benefit people of all ages during the International Society for Anthrozoology and Hu...

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 By Brenda Barnette, CEO of the Seattle Humane Society   While cougar and bear sightings, like those in Seattle this summer, are the kind of wildlife news that grabs headlines, here in the greater Puget Sound area, the wildlife we and our pets are most likely to encounter include coyotes, raccoons and skunks. These tips can ...

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 Q: What standard items should I keep in a pet emergency kit at home and in the car? I have the usual elastic bandages and gauze, tweezers, tic pickers and blanket; and in my car, a spare leash and a small vacuum-sealed pack of treats (to lure a dog away from danger). What am I missing that a veterinarian would suggest? A: Alw...

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 Summer is technically flea season, so infestations of the tiny, biting pests should be decreasing as fall weather approaches, but veterinarians on the Coast say that’s just wishful thinking. “In all honesty, we have a substantial flea problem 12 months out of the year,” said Dr. Don Palermo at Bienville Animal Medical Center in Ocean Springs...

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 Scratch. Scratch. Scratch.   Fall allergies seem to be worse this season for dogs and cats, thanks to the wet weather and cooler temperatures. Dr. Mark Marks, of Wakarusa Veterinary Hospital in Lawrence, estimates he has seen between 20 percent and 30 percent more allergy cases recently compared with typical seasons. He said alle...

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 Q: We recently adopted a 11/2-year-old mixed breed cat after losing two 12-year-old declawed cats. She is not declawed and we're having a tough time trying to deter her from the furniture. We don't want to give up on her as we feel she is a precious little girl. Do you have any suggestions? -- Karen Lore, Macungie A: ...

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 For most of us, there aren't enough hours in the day, and when we have pets, it's hard to pay attention to their every move. It's hard to know all of things in our homes that are dangerous to our pets, but as Veterinarian Dr. Jim Rupnow tells us there are a couple of items you may want to be extra careful around.   "The basics are the...

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 Winter's coming, and what better way to save on heating costs than by adding a friendly dog or cat to warm the foot of your bed on those frigid, blustery nights. But before you run to the pet shelter to pick up Rover or Fluffy, the personal finance Web site FiLife.com has these tips on budgeting for pet ownership: • Esti...

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 By CHRISTINE LINES   My second cat was five months old when I adopted her. That tiny, fluffy kitten with big ears was irresistible. I only paid $75 for her initially, but by the end of the month she had cost over $500 in booster shots, eye medication, Revolution heartworm medication and other vet bills.  That wasn't the en...

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Dear Christopher Cat: My cat recently started drooling, and her breath has a foul odor. What should I do about this? Christopher Responds: I drool when Mom pets me just right. I'm so relaxed, I can't help it. But I don't think that's the kind of drooling you're seeing. Constant drooling, especially when accompanied by foul breath, suggests there...

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By Dr. Tracy Acosta, D.V.M. External parasites are the bane of every pet and pet owner. One of the worst external parasites is ticks. Besides being irritating, ticks can carry diseases, some of which are transmittable to humans. For pets, these parasites can cause physical problems ranging from skin problems to arthritis to lethargy and depressio...

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By Lisa Peterson, Special for USA Today In just one month this summer, dog-nappers snatched a puppy from a 5-year-old child's lap in a public park in Idaho, a Lhasa Apso from a backyard in North Carolina and a 16-week-old boxer from the owner's yard in Oklahoma. The American Kennel Club first alerted the public to this growing trend in April 2008...

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Source: DreamDogs.co.uk There are many different products sold over the counter to help with flea infestations on your dog, his dog bed, your home and an outside garden or back yard. Some of the flea treatments can sting a dog that may have skin irritations.  Dogs have been known to react with a bite, jump on the furniture or even urinate al...

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ONE FRIGHTENING morning, my beloved dog Sophie, 11, fell over face first in her food dish. When she tried to stand up, her back legs buckled beneath her. I rushed her to the veterinarian. After running X-rays and a battery of other expensive tests, the vet proclaimed Sophie a canine invalid. Left elbow and both hips shot. Too old for a replacement...

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Pet lovers who enjoy using an iPhone now have an easy way to search for places and activities that will add more fun to their pets' lives. Nestle Purina PetCare, a leader in enriching the lives of pets and the people who love them, has recently launched "petcentric places," one of the most comprehensive iPhone downloadable applications made av...

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Last night, Mr. Fish, the venerable Geronimo's retired store kitty, started scratching, then licking, then scratching again, a sure signal he has some fleas. Poor fella, fleas love his delicate and papery elderly skin, but he is also very allergic, so it's important to get control quickly. A single flea can bite 400 times in a one day, and if your ...

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Source: The Denver Post A heads-up for Colorado pet lovers: The state's unusually wet summer has produced a spike in animal parasites and allergies. Some area veterinarians are reporting an increase in dog heartworm disease, gastric and intestinal illness, and allergic inflammations. More water means more insects, especially mosquitoes, which tra...

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By Patrick Miles, DVM An unfortunate, but common emergency in our hospital is the inadvertant and sometimes intentional ingestion of human medications by pets. One of the more frequent types of medications ingested is ibuprofen. Most incidences are due to dogs finding the medication in a purse, gym bag, grocery bag, or accidental spillage of a bot...

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By Tracy Dewhirst Q: I adopted my black lab last year, and he was positive for heartworms. He had the treatment and has been on Sentinel preventive medication ever since. He just went in for his yearly exam and is heartworm positive again. How common is this? Are these parasites he had from last year, or did the medication not work? I'm just reall...

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By Bill McGee, special for USA TODAY This is a tough economic climate to launch an airline, let alone one that won't carry human beings. Yet last month Pet Airways took to the skies with one-way fares ranging from $149 to $299—and now all its flights are booked through November. "It's a needed service," says Alysa Binder, who co-founded the compa...

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By Karen Steinrock Q: I would like to know your feelings about using flea and tick medications from the veterinarian. We got the K9 Advantix for our dog, but haven't put it on. I don't like the idea of chemicals but don't want a chance of my pet contracting Lyme disease. -- Grace Shiffer, Millerstown A: With two more months to deal with t...

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By Bonnie Erbe Who says Republicans aren't animal friendly? OK, so the Obama administration has upwardly revised the deficit to several trillion more than previously thought. Deficit, be damned! We pet owners/animal lovers, etc., want our piece of the tax cut pie, too. From the Animal Law Coalition: A bill pending in Congress would give pet...

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Many owners refuse to cut back on care of furry companions Cookie Coco Chanel's owner is feeling the sting of the recession -- her real estate business has dropped off more than 50 percent. But for the chocolate-colored Chihuahua, the good life goes on interrupted -- a twice-monthly oatmeal-aloe vera bath, doggie cheesecake, a professional blow d...

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By Scott Line, Special for USA TODAY Heartworm infection, once limited mostly to the South, is now being found in all 50 states, according to the American Heartworm Society, and the number of cases across the USA is on the rise. Information from testing shows that more than 1 million dogs in the USA are infected with heartworms. Veterinarians in ...

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Technically speaking, healthy pets shouldn't bowl us over with their breath. Halitosis in dogs and cats can often indicate a more serious underlying problem. According to the American Veterinary Dental Society, periodontal disease is one of the most common and serious pet health problems, affecting approximately 80 percent of dogs and 70 percent of...

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Fleas are as susceptible now to the insecticide imidacloprid as they were in 2001, according to data presented last week at an international veterinary parasitology conference in Canada. According to the study's sponsor Bayer Animal Health, data were drawn from 1,014 analyzed samples of flea eggs collected from more than 100 U.S. veterinary clinic...

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Some pet owners hire professionals for pet photos. But for those without the time, money or pet-mania for such a move, you can still snap great shots using your digital camera. We went to the experts for advice: Rose Cosme, pet photographer for DoggyYap Pet Photography; Keith Blaskowsky, owner and photographer for DoggyYap Pet Photography; and San...

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Pet safety experts of BarkBuckleUp.com teamed up with popular car site Edmunds.com to come up with a list of 10 "pet-safe" cars for your consideration. Christina Selter, founder of Bark Buckle Up, says that even the calmest unrestrained pets can become frightened in a moving vehicle, so the use of restraints is key: "In the event of a sudden stop o...

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Kelly, a 10-year-old chocolate Lab, sports a bright yellow collar with "Livestrong" embroidered on it. Like cyclist Lance Armstrong, she's a cancer survivor. In June, Kelly started getting Palladia, the first drug approved by the Food and Drug Administration to treat cancer in dogs. Kelly had a malignant mast cell tumor and an enlarged lymph node...

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Some pest control workers are up to their ankles in fleas, a bigger than normal problem they attribute in part to humid, cooler conditions this summer. “We’re having a lot more call backs on fleas and the problems people are having are a lot worse, like there’s just a lot more of them,” Tim Adams, vice president of Adams Pest Control, said Mon...

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Source: Health.com If you could snap your fingers and make your allergies disappear, you'd probably do it in a second. But what if your pet is the cause of your watery eyes, sneezing, and runny nose? Suddenly that oh-so-simple decision becomes a much tougher call. For some, the psychological misery of giving up a pet may outweigh the everyday mis...

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Source:  Pet Connection by Gina Spadafori and Dr. Marty Becker The pleasure we get from spending time with our dogs is one of the reasons we have them. But as much as we would love to take them everywhere, the reality for most of us is that our dogs spend a lot of time alone. Dogs aren't really designed to stay by themselves, and many times ...

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Wildfires are tearing through Texas and two tropical storms are threatening parts of the USA . A hurricane is brewing in the Atlantic Ocean.   What does this mean for you and your pets? If you need to evacuate your home, you want to take them with you to a shelter or hotel rather than leave them at home. In order to expedite that, your emer...

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The Daily News asked Dottie Brown, chief of surgery at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, and Rebecka Hess, the school's chief of medicine, to take our readers on an anatomical tour of the latest in veterinary science. The fantastic voyage: TEETH. Veterinary dentists can perform root canals to save dogs' teeth and instal...

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By Cathy Rosenthal Dear Cathy: I read your column every Sunday and wanted to pass along something my vet said recently when I had one of my cats in his office for her shots. He was trying to sell me on heartworm prevention for my three cats (all indoor, but he says mosquitoes can get them there, too). I thought he was nuts, but he says new res...

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Yes, it's hurricane season again. I'd like to review an emergency preparedness plan for your family's pets. Be prepared to take your pets with you if evacuation becomes necessary. Have a safe haven arranged and a pet evacuation kit before a storm arrives. If staying with family or friends is not possible, find a pet friendly hotel or motel. I...

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Absence from those we love is self from self - a deadly banishment. --William Shakespeare It was an innocent enough question, but one that had the impact of knocking the air out of my lungs: "So what do you picture life like after Oscar passes?" My brain grappled with the question that my well-meaning friend asked me that Sunday afternoon. In on...

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By Susan Banks, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette There is more than one way to feed a cat, or dog, for that matter. But choosing just what to feed a pet isn't always easy. In light of the 2007 pet food recalls, and with even more confusion over the recent peanut butter/salmonella scare (many pet products contain peanut butter), many owners are becoming pr...

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Q: I treated my dog, Sassy, for fleas last month with a topical product, and they seemed to be gone for several weeks. However, she is starting to scratch again, and I can see an occasional flea. Once you treat a pet for fleas, shouldn’t they be gone? A: For such tiny creatures, fleas can cause huge problems in our pets and sometimes with us. T...

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The Disney movie "G-Force" shows a squad of specially trained, computer-generated guinea pig spies coming to the world's rescue. After the movie comes out, though, animal activists say it will be real life guinea pigs who need rescuing. Some guinea pig rescue groups have already posted pleas to those who might rush out to buy the furry little rode...

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Source: DreamDogs.co.uk The most common question asked when you have checked for fleas and you know your puppy or dog does have them is how to get rid of fleas. If your puppy is younger than six weeks, bathe him in your sink in warm water with a dishwasher detergent added to it. Make sure the water is warm not hot. A popular detergent recommended...

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Heat means dogs need help With the local temperature running in its usual 90s and even higher this summer, not only do people suffer, but pets will also have problems with the extreme heat. Dr. Terry Parker, veterinarian at the Brewton Animal Hospital, said pets need extra care during the hot weather. “Dogs and cats need special care to make...

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That old cat got you down, Fido? Got a headache you just can’t shake? Well, there’s a new generic painkiller made just for four-legged friends like you. Portland, Maine-based Putney Inc. has introduced its first generic drug approved for pets by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The painkiller is a generic version of caprofen, whose brande...

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Ticks are small insects, very patient and with one main purpose in life - to propagate their species. To accomplish that task, they choose warm-blooded animals, such as companion dogs and cats, as their hosts. Many people are under the impression that the recent rains in the area have caused an explosion in the tick population. According to veteri...

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  During the summer, high temperatures and humidity can be hazardous to the health of cats, dogs and other household pets. Because pets cannot sweat to cool themselves down, panting assists them in maintaining a normal body temperature. Pets need a cool place to stay when the summer temperatures soar, along with access to cool, clean water....

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Introducing Your Cat Into a New Home Two weeks ago I shared my adventure when I moved my 4 crazy cats from a small one-bedroom apartment to a wonderful 3-bedroom home. My life is back to normal now, but looking back there were definitely some things I could have done to make things easier on my cats-and in turn make life a little saner for myself....

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Even in the worst of times, it’s not a good idea to eliminate health insurance. Taking care of ourselves, mentally and physically, saves money in the long-run. Many people will invest just as much in the health of their pets. Keeping up with veterinary bills and feeding our pets can be major expenses. Just as we can be proactive in our health care...

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 If you've ever wondered who's in control, you or your cat, a new study points to the obvious. It's your cat.   Household cats exercise this control with a certain type of urgent-sounding, high-pitched meow, according to the findings. This meow is actually a purr mixed with a high-pitched cry. While people usually think of cat purrin...

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 We're living in the "land of plenty." Plenty of heat, moisture, mosquitos, ants and other biting, annoying insects. With the heat index rising above 100 degrees, it is essential to pay attention to pets. Dogs and cats that are not allowed inside the home are really miserable right now with the heat, heavy rains (they will come, eventually) a...

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Source: Gary Bogue Dear Gary: Can illness in a cat cause a personality change? Our 10-year-old cat, Abbey, recently had a serious constipation problem. Without going into gory details, he spent two stressful days at the vet getting de-pooped and receiving a lion shave to rid him of the extremely long hair that was causing the constipation proble...

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What would you do if your beloved pet were caught in a fire? Each year nearly half-a-million pets are affected by home fires that leave their owners devastated. To educate dog and cat owners and protect pets from becoming victims of deadly house fires, the American Kennel Club, the National Volunteer Fire Council, and ADT Security Services offer t...

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Q: My cat Daisy Mae recently tested positive for feline heartworms. I understand that a positive test doesn't mean she has worms, only that she's been exposed to them. Now I have to recheck her blood to make sure she doesn't actually have the parasites. The worst part is, I recently learned that feline heartworm disease can be prevented. Could you ...

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Summertime brings hot weather, camping trips and, for pet owners, fleas and ticks. These small bugs aren’t a small concern. Ticks are second only to mosquitoes as vectors of human diseases, and flea and tick populations are on the rise nationwide. “When it comes to external parasites like fleas and ticks, prevention is a far better answer to the p...

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With the heat of summer, owners need to help their pets handle the harsh conditions. The Houston Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals provide several suggestions to make sure an animal is safe during the hot weather. The SPCA first recommends that pets never be left in a parked car. The temperature inside a car, even when it is parked...

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THERE ARE AS many reasons for wanting a dog as there are breeds of dogs. Attractiveness is low on the list after considering temperament, size, energy, disposition and human needs. For instance, there are those who prefer large dogs, but live in apartments. That sounds prohibitive, but may work out fine if they choose the appropriate breed. A St. ...

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Despite the shaky economy, dozens of hot new products for pets are hitting the market. Manufacturers are coming through for all those pet owners who are willing to cut back in other areas rather than deprive their pets, says Bob Vetere, president of the American Pet Products Association. "Total pet spending has grown at a pace equal to or greater...

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Heartworm disease, a mosquito-borne disease, is a constant threat to our pets' health, especially in our community where the disease is unfortunately at an endemic level. This is due both to our tropical climate, as well as the fact that many pet owners, regrettably, still do not provide their pets with heartworm preventive medication. While many ...

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Like many pet owners, Alison Schulz considers her two cats a part of she and her husband's family. "We love them. They're kind of like our kids," she said. "We don't have kids yet, so we take pretty good care of them." Whether you're the proud owner of a pooch or crazy about your cat, these hairy, and occasionally slobbery, four-legged friends se...

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Backyard swimming pools can be hazardous to pets and wildlife, warns the Humane Society of the United States. There are more than 8 million swimming pools in the United States, and an estimated 1 of every 1,027 pets drown in pools each year, statistics from the society indicated. Yet, this tragic figure doesn't account for the tens of thousands of...

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People with pets may have a whole new reason to maintain their indoor air quality, according to one recent newspaper report. An article in the Washington Post says that fleas tend to thrive in warmer weather, bringing with them the potential to transmit diseases and to be an overall nuisance. With that in mind, the Post offers some tips for avoid...

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Heartworm disease is on the rise in Colorado and now Veterinarians are changing the recommendations for treating dogs. There's no way for dog owners to know if their pets have heartworm disease. Veterinarians, like Dr. Jed Rogers at the Firehouse Animal Hospital, are now recommending year-round treatment rather than just a 6-month period. ...

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Fleas love Florida summers, which means veterinarians are seeing many more patients with flea allergies, the most common dermatologic disease of domestic dogs, according to a Kansas State University study. PetCetera readers often e-mail with questions about these little pests and other parasites. So this week, I asked veterinarian Link Welborn, ow...

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Whether opting to walk Fido on a summer night or stay inside an air-conditioned living room with Boots the cat, pet owners can get joy from their furry loved ones this summer. Just watch where you step. More than 86,000 Americans suffer injuries from falls each year because of cats and dogs, sometimes tripping over a pet, stumbling over a toy or ...

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Finances have more pet owners cutting costs or giving animals up Source: DallasNews.com The down economy already has made life difficult for millions of Americans. Now it's taking a toll on their pets. Faced with costs for care and treatment they can no longer afford, more pet owners are skimping on vaccinations, cutting down on expenses or sk...

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Source: The Buffalo News Loving owners run up big bills for range of complex procedures The patient was lying on his side, asleep under anesthesia, as a machine measuring his breathing beeped soothingly. While the surgeon scrubbed up, medical technicians disinfected the skin near the elbow, where a tumor was to be removed. The surgery was fairl...

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When planting your herb garden, why not throw in some catnip (Nepeta cataria) for your cat? It's available at most local garden centers or online. Having access to a fresh crop of catnip will make your cat very happy. The fresh catnip will be more potent and appealing than the bags of dried stuff you buy at the pet store. It's the smell of it that...

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By Blair Foy With the dog days of summer approaching, hot temperatures are not the only potential problems facing pets and their owners in the coming months. For Michelle Riggs, getting her two dogs, Toby and Rocky, ready for summer meant a trip to her vet. "They got their blood tested for heartworm," she said. "It was their annual check-up." A...

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By Beth Guerra, DVM Another holiday weekend is upon us! It is important to us at ACCES that you and your entire family celebrate the holiday safely. Read below for some safety tips. The most obvious concern for this holiday is fireworks. Most pets are intolerant of the loud noise, but your vet can provide a medication to relieve anxiety. If you p...

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Dr. Cynda Crawford, clinical assistant professor in the Maddie’s Shelter Medicine Program at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine in Gainesville, recently answered dozens of readers’ questions on the Consults blog, “The Dog Flu Virus: Are You or Your Pet At Risk?” Many readers had questions about flu symptoms, how the virus is s...

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Which businesses are the most pet-friendly? Petside.com ranks the top 5 employers most welcoming of pooches: 1. At Printing For Less, 15 percent of the 160 workers bring their dogs to work on any given day. "Our dog-friendly policy helps staff morale, builds camaraderie among employees, aids in creating a more productive work environment, helps st...

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By Dr. Tracy Acosta The heat of summer brings with it discomfort and even danger to both humans and pets. However, with a few preparations and a little common sense, you and your pet can bear and survive the heat. It is important to remember that some pets may have a harder time dealing with the heat and humidity. So, if your pet fits into one o...

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Vet Shares Cost-Saving Pet Health Care Tips Top 5 Cost-saving Tips for Pet Health Care: 1. When planning your family vacation this year, why pay for kennels or a house sitter? If you have pets that are tolerant of car or even air travel, plan a vacation that includes pet-friendly hotels: many major hotel chains and lots of independent hotels feat...

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Q: What heartworm preventative should I use for my dog? A: Heartworm preventative comes in all shapes and forms. The best product for your dog may be different for someone else's. If your dog will eat anything, you are in luck. There are multiple chewable products on the market. Some of them are for fleas, as well as heartworms. If they are picky ...

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Are you concerned about your pet's welfare while you leave town for vacation? If a friend or relative is going to take care of your pet, the Humane Society recommends that you ask that person to take your animal into his or her home since animals can get lonely when left alone. Make sure that your pet is comfortable with the temporary care...

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  Source: Examiner.com, by Alexis Jenny Dirofilaria immitis, also known as heartworm, is a condition in dogs caused by a parasite that uses mosquitoes as vectors. Heartworm can also affect cats and other animals.  This parasite attacks the heart tissue and can be fatal. There is treatment for heartworm, but the treatment is not a cure. ...

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Extreme heat can cause brain damage As temperatures continue to hold above the 80 degree mark, it’s important to take extra measures when leaving animals outside during extreme temperatures. Kathie Johnson, director of veterinary services at AHS, says that if you must have your pet outdoors in the heat then be sure they have proper shelter and pl...

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Watch cat or dog for unusual behavior.Taking animal for regular exams keeps vet bills under control. Weeza was ready to spend the summer playing with her favorite toy and tormenting her younger sister. But things didn’t go according to plan for the 9-year-old Boston terrier. During a routine checkup, doctors found a cancerous growth on her side...

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As summer heats up and rainy days become frequent, pets are more susceptible to fleas than any other time of the year.  All dogs and cats are vulnerable to fleas, even if they are considered indoor pets. “Warm, wet weather is the prime time for fleas to appear on pets,” Severidt said. “The best way to protect your dogs and cats from fleas is ...

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Americans love fireworks on the Fourth of July, unfortunately, many pets do not. That's why the the Humane Society of the United States wants to remind people that pets can become distressed by the additional noise and commotion involved with the Independence Day holiday. The Humane Society strongly encourages pet owners to protect the furry membe...

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By Marcus Quinn Your dog deserves the same care and attention that we give to our own health concerns when he or she is facing health problems. Dogs face some of the same issues as people, such as arthritis, cancer, depression and diabetes, as well as their own unique illnesses such as heartworms and kennel cough. Taking care of your dog du...

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Source: Associated Press Susan Jacobs and her companion Kingston both like chicken and collards, chilling on the couch and riding in her convertible with the breeze tussling his curly black hair. Kingston, it should be said, is a black poodle. But for Jacobs, 45, of Long Beach, Calif., he is like a child. "The next time I travel, I'll probably t...

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By Dr. William K. FauksYou’d think that after spending hundreds of millions of dollars on flea and tick control products each year in the U.S. that we’d have the dreaded little rascals pretty well eliminated by now, right? Wrong! Not even close. Ditto for mosquitoes. All three are as abundant as ever.These disgusting and miserable bugs are not simp...

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Thanks to advances in veterinary care, pets are living longer than ever.However, with this increased life span comes an increase in types of diseases affecting senior pets.As pets reach the golden years, there are many diseases they can face including kidney, heart, and liver disease; tumors and cancers; hormone diseases such as thyroid imbalance o...

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The next time your dog greets you with lots of kisses and licks on your face, there's something you should think about: your pet can give you an infection you definitely don't want.More and more domestic animals are contracting MRSA, an antibiotic-resistant strain of staph infection that can cause terrible lesions, and worst case scenario, death."P...

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Source: Associated PressSo much for Rover and Fido.Almost half of American pet owners gave an animal a human-like name, such as Jack or Sophie, according to an Associated Press-Petside.com poll of more than 1,000 pet owners released Tuesday.Some of the more unusual names: Hollywood and Chichi Mittens, both cats; Vegas the Labrador Retriever; Jibber...

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Q: Despite having my cat’s teeth cleaned just three months ago, her gums are all red. How can I keep ahead of this problem?A: In most pets, inflammation of the gums occurs due to bacteria present in tarter accumulations on the teeth. In certain cats, gingivitis can be a chronic primary disease process. In these cats, even perfectly clean teeth can ...

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After 16 years of loyal patronage, we — and our arthritic dog — were kicked to the curb. Last August, my wife took our standard poodle to our longtime veterinarian in Richmond, B.C. She prescribed a trial supply of six 25-milligram tablets of Deramaxx, an anti-inflammatory specially formulated for dogs. My wife paid $51 for the examination and $23....

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If you have an outdoor pet you’re familiar with all the nasty things they can get into. And with summer just around the corner, pet owners are on high alert.Warm weather means mosquitoes, which can transmit heartworm to your pet by biting them and laying eggs. Starting right now, pets can begin treatment to prevent them from contracting heartworm. ...

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While the rest of the economy goes to the dogs, pet-centered businesses are still riding high, according to new research.The Los Angeles Times reports the pet industry is expected to generate $51.6 billion this year -- 1.3 percent more than in 2008, according to Los Angeles-based research firm IBISWorld. Even the number of cats and dogs as pets is ...

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When flea and tick season is upon us, pet owners need to be proactive regarding the health implications and discomfort these pests can cause their animals. Important Flea and Tick Facts• Fleas thrive in temperatures between 65 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit and in conditions of high humidity. • The best place to look for fleas on your cat or dog is over...

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Many a dog parent will happily call their mutt "Max" and think it's marvelous, but more "elite namers" might sniff at a label so mundane. And while "Peaches" is potentially purrfect for countless litters of kitties, you could very well be the type who finds it prohibitively prosaic. More than a few folks will even admit to having the name of their ...

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By Dr. Chris RaineySummer brings constant reminders about the danger of overexposure to the sun and the need for sunscreen. The dangers are real, and we should all take appropriate measures to prevent skin damage and skin cancer. But, did you know the family pet is susceptible to many of the same diseases? Dogs, cats and even horses suffer from sun...

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Source: Telegraph.co.ukChico is a large, striking-looking black cat with yellow eyes. His owner knows him very well, and over a period of a few weeks recently, she noticed that there was something not right about him.She could not put her finger on exactly what was wrong, but she just knew that he was not himself, so she brought him in to see me. A...

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The upcoming Fourth of July weekend is marked by all kinds of celebrations, activities and food that can be fun for your family, but Fulton County Animal Services offers some important tips to ensure that the Fourth of July is also a safe holiday for your pet."While we are all looking forward to a long, holiday weekend, be sure that your pet is hav...

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Heartworm disease in cats is caused by the same mosquito-borne parasite as heartworms in dogs, Dirofilaria immitis. This parasite is spread when a mosquito takes a blood meal from an infected host and then feeds on an unaffected cat, transferring infected blood. The larvae then migrate through the cat’s body, eventually settling in the blood vessel...

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As pet owners battle fleas and ticks, many are shying away from chemicals and embracing more natural ways of keeping pests off their pets. Jill Currin, of Raleigh, said she has a simple method to keep fleas off her three dogs, Hank, Belle and Allie: Wash them in natural soap and feed them garlic. "It worked magnificently," Currin said. "I don...

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As you prepare for summer vacation, you’ve probably invested a lot of time into researching the best hotels, restaurants, attractions, etc. But how much time have you put into find an appropriate boarding facility for your pets? Here are some important questions to consider as you search for the best vacation spot for your pets.1. What does the fac...

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Source: FoxNews.comDog owners have no one to blame but themselves when they think their canine pals give them that familiar "guilty look."You see guilt, but the dog doesn't necessarily feel it, a new study shows.By setting up conditions where the owner was misinformed as to whether his or her dog had really committed an offense, researcher Alexandr...

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Source: ABC NewsSpring is prime shedding season -- a hairy time for many pet owners. If shedding is one of your pet peeves, America's favorite vet, Marty Becker, has some advice for how to stop the fur before it flies. How to Cut Back, Collect and Contain Shedding Becker said to keep in mind that all breeds shed, though some do more than others. Lo...

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Some common shrubs and plants can cause heart, liver and kidney failure Bacon, a French bulldog, likes to munch on the rhododendron bushes in the front yard of his Washington, D.C. home. His owner, Susan Rosenau, had heard that rhododendron might be toxic to dogs, but Bacon never seemed to suffer any ill effects, so she didn’t worry too much about ...

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Each year in the United States, thousands of people lose their lives to fire.Tens of thousands are injured and the financial costs can reach into the billions of dollars.Almost forgotten in these tragedies are the hundreds of thousands of family pets who suffer death or injury as well.Fire is a very scary thing. We use controlled fires to heat our ...

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When spring comes around, you know flea and tick season has begun and it is vital to keep your pet and home flea and tick-free. Don’t let these pesky parasites spoil your spring and summer, or worse, spoil your pet’s summer holiday.Fleas are small, wingless parasitic insects that live off the blood of mammals and birds. Fleas usually just annoy our...

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GARDENS PRESENT HEALTH HAZARDS TO CATS AND DOGSCommon items in lawns and gardens can be a danger to cats and dogs.Landscape lawn edging and dogs don't mix. Sharp lawn edging materials protruding from the ground or hidden under layers of grass and mulch, can cause deep cuts to the pads of dogs. The sharp metal edges can cut skin and tendons down to ...

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Whether your cat enjoys the outdoors or prefers the inside, it's important to protect her from what may be a surprising risk. A number of fragrant flowers can be deadly for cats. "Certain types of lily are extremely poisonous to cats if eaten or if the pollen is ingested," said Dr. Michele Gaspar, DVM, DABVP, veterinarian and feline specialist for ...

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Summer in the Northwest is an especially important time to make sure you and your pets are protected from fleas. During the warmer months, fleas reproduce much more rapidly so problems can develop very quickly. Many are unaware of a flea problem until a full-blown infestation sets in, simply because they aren’t seeing any fleas on their pets. It is...

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Q. Now that summer is here, motorists may have plans to take their pets along on weekend getaways or lengthier vacations. How can drivers make sure they keep both themselves and their pets safe? A. These few tips might be helpful for drivers interested in traveling with their pets this summer: Restrain your pets to avoid distractions while driving....

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Source: NY TimesIf you own a dog, especially a dog that has anointed your favorite rug, you know that an animal is capable of apologizing. He can whimper and slouch and tuck his tail and look positively mortified — “I don’t know what possessed me.” But is he really feeling sorry? Could any animal feel true pangs of regret? Scientists once scorned t...

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Dr. M. Margaret KingThe Edmond SunEDMOND — Q: My sister lives in upper New York and her veterinarian told her she should get a Lyme disease vaccine for her dog and protect it from picking up ticks as much as possible so she does not get it herself. Should I worry about Lyme disease in my dog here in Edmond, and can I get it from him?A: Lyme disease...

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There's something lurking in the waters left behind by the recent rains that can be deadly to dogs and cats -- and it's much smaller than an alligator.The standing water left behind has quickly become a breeding ground for mosquitoes and as all pet owners know that can lead to heartworms in unprotected dogs and cats.Heartworms are found in just abo...

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There are various types of flea control products available so there’s no need for your pet to suffer from fleabites. Topical products are applied to the dog’s skin and some of these also control ticks and other parasites. Control products are also available in pill form. Climate and the lifestyle of your dog will determine the best product for you ...

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Warmer weather means heightened risk for your pet Now that warmer weather is here, so are mosquitoes. And with mosquitoes comes the risk that your dog — or cat — could get heartworm disease. Mosquito-borne heartworm is deadly, but entirely preventable. Most veterinarians recommend giving heartworm preventive medication year-round; but, na...

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Source: North Country GazetteSummer is a time for both you and your pet to enjoy the sunshine and outdoors, but along with the fun, the season also offers up situations that can endanger your pet. By taking precautions, you can decrease the chance that disaster will happen. The HSUS offers these tips for pet owners to keep their furry friends safe ...

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There is no replacement for having your own family disaster plan that includes your pets.Developing an evacuation plan: Prearrange an evacuation site for your family and animals outside the immediate area. Ideally, this will be with a friend, relative or a pet-friendly hotel. Optionally, you can make advance arrangements for the care of your pets w...

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Source: sfgate.comHitting the open road with our pet as co-pilot can really up the adventure ante. A trip with our four-legged friends just requires a little bit of extra planning and preparation to make it a meowing (or barking) success. A recent article from washingtonpost.com shares some sound advice for pet parents who prefer to go exploring wi...

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Not all dogs — or humans — love a long run, but that’s no excuse for not getting your exercise (or not helping your pooch get hers). So celeb trainer Gunnar Peterson has developed a series of moves you can do together to fight boredom and fat.You can see his videos at “Training Room” at www.petfit.com, but here’s a preview.•Power dog walk with inte...

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Source: American Kennel ClubAs the value of pets in our lives rises, many people now consider their dogs to be part of the family and want to include them in family vacations. Whether you're heading out to the beach or to a neighboring state for a dog show, the American Kennel Club offers the following tips to keep your travel days as comfortable a...

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Canine heartworm disease continues to be a major, life-threatening issue for dogs all over the world. It has been found in all 50 of the United States, and the American Heartworm Society recently released a new study showing an increase in the incidence of heartworm disease throughout the country. I am often amazed at the lackadaisical attitude tha...

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President Barack Obama and his family took their time selecting their new dog Bo, and that's something everyone should do when considering a new pet, says a University of Maryland School of Medicine expert."There are many health and safety concerns that should be addressed before bringing an animal into the home," Mary Beth Bollinger, an associate ...

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Source: Chicago TribuneWhat's worse than having your dog skunked? How about having your skunked dog run through the house, leaving a trail of stink that's nearly impossible to get rid of?Spring is here, and so again are skunks, who are busy courting and mating and spreading their scent hither and yon -- including on dogs. "We had three the other da...

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Study Finds Mimicking Trainers Could Make Dog Behavior WorseTrying to make your dog less aggressive by showing them you are the boss is a waste of time, researchers in a new British study say, especially when using popular new training techniques that urge owners to use physical force to make their dogs more compliant. According to the study, physi...

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Sometimes people who lose their jobs or homes must make heartbreaking decisions.Source: LA TimesThe story of this Juliet, an American pit bull terrier, has its share of tragedy. She was kenneled with an Orange County veterinarian because her owner was hit by catastrophic illness. When poor health and medical bills took their toll, the owner sadly r...

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When temperatures soar, the Humane Society/SPCA of Bexar County would like to offer tips to pet owners so they may keep their companions cool, safe, and healthy:Never leave your pet unattended in a car. Even with the windows down, your pet can develop a heat stroke, brain damage or death. Please keep your pets at home when running errands, no matt...

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Even at just 72 degrees, a car parked in direct sunlight can reach 116Source: MSNBCIf you've ever left your dog in the car for "just five minutes" on a summer day, the officers of the Washington Humane Society want you to hear some cautionary tales."They all say the same thing: I never thought that this would happen," says Mitchell Battle, deputy d...

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American Veterinary Medical Association offers tips for Dog Bite Prevention WeekThe 15th annual National Dog Bite Prevention Week, from May 17 through 23, offers an opportunity to educate the public on how to properly approach and interact with dogs in order to avoid severe injury.It’s estimated that 4.7 million people are bitten by dogs every year...

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Want to be sure that Spot’s social behavior is spotless? Dr. Barbara Sherman, a specialist in animal behavior at North Carolina State University, says the best way to prevent dog bites is to start training puppies in proper social behavior early on. She shares some suggestions as part of National Dog Bite Prevention Week (May 17-23). Some 4.5 milli...

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Source: TheStarPress.comQ: What extra concerns should I have now that spring is here and my pets are spending more time outdoors?A: The beautiful weather of spring brings with it many increased health risks to pets. A few of the more common hazards include:Toxic plants: Several varieties of indoor and outdoor plants can be very toxic to pets if ing...

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Ashleigh, a marketing associate who works with us, recently moved to Los Angeles - 1,958 air miles from her Michigan hometown. That in itself was stressful enough.But the worst part of the move: coordinating getting her two "babies" - Ragdoll cats Lilleigh and Breagan - to their new home. Ashleigh and boyfriend Brett spent $300 to carry the cats in...

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A few days ago a friend (a fan of both good photography and pets) discovered a Web site with particularly interesting and expressive photos of dogs and cats. I checked out the site, Fat Orange Cat Studio, and was mighty impressed with how photographer Li Ward captures that blink-of-the-eye moment. I take lots of photos of my dog and cat but I am al...

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Dogs love car rides, but sometimes those rides can prove deadly. As we actually (we hope) move towards summer, the problem of dogs left to suffer in hot cars looms again.What to do? You can take action. Here's some advice from Angela Speed of the Wisconsin Humane Society: "If you witness a dog in a hot car who is showing obvious signs of distress,...

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When my father retired, he decided to buy a dog to keep him occupied. Rocky (yes, my dad likes Sylvester Stallone) is a beautiful miniature collie. My dad figured he had all the time in the world to take care of Rocky. What he didn't realize was that he needed quite a bit of money too. There are ways to cut costs if you are having trouble keeping u...

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Yes, it is that time again, flea and tick season is upon us. Time to get your four-legged friends on some sort of topical flea and tick preventative.For those of you who are first-time dog or cat owners, I am referring to a liquid that is applied to the coat at the base of the neck and middle of the hind end. It can be purchased in a six-month supp...

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Source: Detroit NewsMore than half of us have a pet. In many cases, we consider our companion animal a member of the family. These animals can also be sources of improved physical and mental health. Of course, there are people who are allergic to pets or pet dander. But for the rest of us, there are at least seven ways we may benefit from having a ...

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At Sue Fernando's house, mornings start early and active. The owner of three rambunctious canines all living together in a small space, that first jump out of bed gets the ball rolling in a cacophony of wriggling excitement as the morning routine begins.For Fernando, it's not just about feeding, watering and letting the dogs out for some "nature" t...

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Last week, an article written by Dr. Karen Snowden, who teaches parasitology at the Texas A & M College of Veterinary Medicine, was forwarded to several people involved in animal welfare, and fortunately, I received it. Dr. Snowden is also an active volunteer at the Brazos Animal Shelter.She presents excellent information to share with people conte...

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Source: New York TimesI last wrote about pets, oh, about a year ago, when we had just adopted a hamster for my son instead of the puppy he really wanted.The hamster, sadly, suffered an early death from cancer three months after we got her. And it so happened that right around that time, a neighbor was giving away some adorable kittens and we found ...

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Planting a garden, spring cleaning, fertilizing the lawn -- we all have lots of work to do with the coming of spring. But pets also have health and safety needs this time of year that their owners should know about. "I see it all the time in my clinic in the springtime. Animals get into fertilizers and pesticides, those used on a home or on a farm,...

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What Is Heartworm? A heartworm is a parasitic worm (Dirofilaria immitis) that lives in the heart and pulmonary arteries of an infected animal. The worms travel through the bloodstream—harming arteries and vital organs as they go—ultimately completing their journey to the vessels of the lung and the heart chamber about six months after the initial i...

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Chanel, a dachshund, celebrated her 21st birthday with a party complete with cake Wednesday in New York.Her owners, Denice and Karl Shaugnessey, took her to Manhattan's Dog Hotel and Spa, where they celebrated the milestone birthday party and received a certificate from a Guinness World Records official confirming Chanel's rank as oldest dog, Engla...

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Source: KnoxNews.comQ: I am already seeing ticks on my dog. I don't remember ticks being out this early in the spring; is it another sign of global warming?A: I concur with you that ticks are already out this year. In fact, I found one crawling up my leg last week. However, I cannot report about our climatic or political future, but the sight of th...

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1. Dental disease: One of the number one problems seen in vet clinics is dental disease and gingivitis. Not only can plaque and tartar buildup lead to bad breath, but it can lead to tooth decay and loss. In addition, bacteria from the diseased teeth can spread throughout the bloodstream and damage organs like the heart and kidneys, especially in an...

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Source: SacBee.comOur dogs love spring and summer – longer days, less inclement weather – but they always seem a little disappointed when they realize they're not going to be getting as many rides in the car.That's because in the winter there's not much risk to letting a well- mannered dog wait in the car during a quick pop inside the bank, drugsto...

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Summertime brings hot weather, camping trips and, for pet owners, fleas and ticks. These small bugs aren't a small concern. Ticks are second only to mosquitoes as vectors of human diseases, and flea and tick populations are on the rise nationwide. "When it comes to external parasites like fleas and ticks, prevention is a far better answer to the pr...

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By Dr. Elizabeth SmootsYou're probably aware that secondhand smoke is harmful to people. But did you know that our furry and feathered friends are often innocent victims of human smoking habits too? Dogs, cats, birds, and other small animals in our households involuntarily breathe in the smoke. And toxins in tobacco settle out on their fur and feat...

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Source: Baltimore SunThough those of us who call PetsMart a home away from home might argue that every week is Pet Week, this week is actually officially National Pet Week.The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the Auxiliary to the AVMA created the holiday of sorts in 1981 to promote responsible pet ownership, celebrate the human-an...

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Heartworm season is coming.The American Heartworm Society (AHS) has released new survey findings showing an increase in heartworm prevalence throughout the United States. Because this disease is potentially fatal to dogs and cats, AHS continuously monitors growth rates to determine next steps in education, research, and preventative measures. “It’...

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Source: Standard-Freeholder.comDr. Peter Tropea is ticked: he's ticked about ticks. Usually at this time of year the city veterinarian is warning clients about the dangers of heartworm disease, the need for testing and, if required, treatment. While this is no less critical, there's a new parasite which is making its presence known far too often fo...

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Source: Baltimore SunJBW just wrote in to Unleashed, asking, "Do you think animals (like our beloved cats and dogs) are at risk for swine flu? This may be a silly question, but it's been on my mind." That question has been on a lot of people's minds as the flu virus spreads through the country. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to ...

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Source: Pet ScoopSpring is a good time to take your pet in for an annual checkup. Even though your pets are on heartworm preventative, you should still have your vet check once a year to make sure they are heartworm negative.It's the easiest disease to prevent in dogs and cats. Simply give them the preventative. Several versions are available throu...

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Animal health expert says such strain hasn’t shown to spread to pets.Source: DogChannel.comCats and dogs do not appear to be at risk of becoming infected with the swine flu virus that’s in the news for making 91 people sick in the United States as of Wednesday.Sharon Hietala, a professor at the California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory Sy...

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Source: Chicago Sun TimesExercise, affection and obedience. That's the trio of musts the Obamas and others need to remember when a dog joins the family. The president and his family recently adopted their much-anticipated first pet, a six-month-old Portuguese water dog named Bo."The first thing to do when you have a new dog is to establish boundari...

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A Canadian city bus driver in Calgary is credited with saving a cowering young dog from circling coyotes by simply opening the bus door.Dawn Hagel said she was driving Tuesday when she spotted the 16-month-old Australian cattle dog cringing beneath a parked pickup truck at the side of the road and two coyotes circling it.Hagel, who owns two dogs he...

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Q: I adopted a dog from a local shelter last year; he was vaccinated and had a negative heartworm test. I gave him heartworm tablets every month, but at his yearly checkup this month, his heartworm test was positive. Now my veterinarian is telling me that he needs heartworm treatment. How could he have gotten heartworms while on the medication?A: M...

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April is Heartworm Awareness Month, and a new study says more pets are contracting the disease. As director of Lifeline Animal Placement and Protection, an animal rescue and no-kill shelter in Wichita, Mary Pat Morriss is used to seeing dogs and cats that have not been given the best of care. Many of the animals that end up in her care have b...

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Q: What is the best flea control product to use on my pets?A: The answer to this question depends on several lifestyle and risk factors. For example, the best product for a dog that likes to swim may be different than the best product for a house cat. The answer may also depend on other parasites you are concerned about. For example, some flea prod...

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Source: Washington PostIf you are a dog lover, you already know the answer to that question. Seconds after arriving home, you come face to face with a tail-wagging, wildly excited pooch that can't get enough of you. Depending on the breed, you will be blitzed by three to 150 pounds of motorized fur showering you with kisses. Actually, what you are ...

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Source: BradentonHerald.comSpring has arrived and along with the warmer and longer days, out comes the gardener in all of us. For pet owners, it is also a great time to do a little checking around the house and the yard to ensure that your pets will be safe. The yard during this time of year can be deadly if pet owners are not careful.Some of the m...

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Ticks and fleas are hitting rural areas of Oklahoma and the metro area could be next. Experts say it's time to treat your yard, home and pets.Local veterinarian Jeff Henderson says, "With this wet weather we've had all of a sudden temperatures hitting 80 degrees more importantly the temps in the evening have now come up."Henderson says this means i...

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The more I read the Boston Police Department's tweets and Adam Gaffin's Universal Hub (both are part of the fire hose of RSS feeds I receive), the more I fear that Boston is edging toward apocalypse.Roving gangs target walkers at Jamaica Pond and in South Boston. The Turnpike Authority traps motorists before empty tollbooths. Kentucky Fried Chicken...

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Source: WashingtonPost.comHave you decided to TAKE YOUR PET with you when you go on your vacation this year? Well, the good news is that there are many hotels that allow pets, so check where you will be staying. Also, be sure to check with friends or relatives -- don't assume that it will be OK to bring your pet. Take pets on short trips to get the...

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Source: Examiner.com, Lorie HustonIntestinal worms are a major concern for most pet owners, particularly when the pet owner starts seeing the worms dropping off their pet and falling onto the furniture, carpet or bedding.Tapeworms are one the more common intestinal parasites seen in dogs and cats. Tapeworm will quite often be visible around the an...

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Source: DailyComet.comDuring a recession, many families are desperate to find ways to cut corners with expenses, and, unfortunately, pets often bear the consequences.Animal shelters are reported to be at capacity and unable to rescue all of the pets being given up by owners who can no longer afford to keep them.More than one in three Americans are...

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Animal lovers of the world, take heart: Your allergies don't have to exile your pets. Tammy Vergel de Dios, a trained nurse and owner of the Dr. Dolittle's Rescue Ranch in Alamo, Texas, says people often find themselves compelled to give away their dogs or cats because they believe they have allergies to pet dander, the dead skin that flakes off an...

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Dogs and cats may be more vulnerable to pesticide poisoning than their human companions. After all, they nose around close to the ground, where lawn and garden pesticides may linger, and they lick themselves clean afterward. Beyond that, many pets are dosed with flea and tick repellents and powders.All of which means that dogs, cats and other pets ...

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Source: SFGate.com by Pat EngelQ: Why can't dogs hold conversations with one another? They bark, but it's all one-sided; they bark at stuff, not to it. My friend says it's because dogs don't have the intelligence to use language as a communication tool. Is she right?A: Dogs have a very eloquent way of communicating with each other, of which vocali...

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Source: The Gilroy Dispatch By Pete KeeslingQ:Our cat, Nellie, has lost some fur on his back. He looks real thin across his top near his tail. His skin feels like sandpaper when I pet him on his backside. Could this be mange? A:Nellie's problem is probably a lot more simple than mange. Mange is a skin condition caused by mites. But it sounds as th...

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Source: Examiner.com, Kristina Murphy Frontline, a topical flea treatment produced by Merial, is an effective solution in the battle against fleas. Yet, as with everything else in life, there are pros and cons to consider when choosing between flea control products. Understanding the uses, benefits, and potential ill effects of Frontline will he...

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Source: Examiner.com, Lorie HustonOverweight or fat dogs and cats are more common than most pet owners realize. It is estimated that over 50% of dogs between the ages of five to ten years of age are overweight or obese.Why does it matter if your pet is fat or overweight?If your dog or cat is fat or overweight, his health is at risk. Overweight pets...

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Ask yourself these five questions before adopting a petThink you want to adopt a furry friend? Contemplating adding a kitten, puppy or bird to your family?Would you prefer to share your home with a mature dog or cat?The Larimer Humane Society, Fort Collins Cat Rescue and breed-specific rescues have a variety of animals looking for homes.“Anyone tha...

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Routine care for your pet should include nail clipping and teeth brushing, removing matted hair and helping them stay fresh and clean with the requisite baths and treatment for pests like ticks and fleas.There are some things that require a trip to the vet, others you can do yourself with just a bit of instruction from your animal care professional...

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Source: Good HousekeepingTravel plans now commonly include pets: We don’t like leaving them behind and they can heighten the fun of experiencing new places or visiting old friends. But before you get caught up in the current acceptability of pets in public places, take a moment to consider if travel really suits your pet. Then plan carefully to acc...

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Weigh the costs and benefits before adopting a petOnce children reach the age of 6 or 7, pets come on their radar screens in a big way. Deciding whether to give in to their pleas to adopt a pet, whether feathered, furry or scaly, is no small matter. First, there's the time commitment. You not only have to think of the pet (cleaning, feeding, walkin...

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Source: Examiner.com, Lorie Huston Heartworms are one of the major threats to dogs, particularly in the warmer months. Heartworms are parasitic worms which live inside of a dog’s heart and cause serious damage to the heart and lungs. Heartworm disease is transmitted by mosquitoes, which is why the summer months are more dangerous for your...

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For owners of lost pets, the frantic search for Fido does not always end happily.Now one Raleigh company is betting that even in a recession, pet owners will pay $250 for some peace of mind.Smaller than a business card, Spotlight is a rectangular box that attaches to a dog's collar and connects with satellites and cell phone towers to provide a GPS...

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Easter isn't just dangerous to marshmallow chicks and chocolate bunnies.Real pets are often put in the peril, too, warns webvet.com, which just released its "Seven Deadly Sins of Easter."Chances are you've been warned before about getting a live bunny: Most wind up in shelters or "on the streets, which is a sure death sentence," the website says.Ch...

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Source: Modesto Bee, Jeff Kahler, DVM The plants are in bloom and so, too, are many of our noses.Inhaled allergies are becoming more and more prevalent. There is, however, a difference in how these types of allergies manifest in animals vs. people.Inhaled allergies in people affect sensitive areas and result in watery eyes, runny nose, sneezing and...

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As the name implies, heartworms are parasitic worms that live in a dog's heart and adjacent vessels. The disease is transmitted by mosquitoes. Mosquitoes will take a blood meal containing microfilaria (immature heartworms) from an infected dog. The microfilaria will undergo a stage of maturation within the mosquito after which time they are conside...

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Veterinarians Issue Warning About Easter Lilies And CatsPet owners are being warned to keep their cats away from Easter lilies. UC Davis Veterinarians say certain types of lilies produce a chemical that can be deadly to cats who bite into their leaves or petals, or even drink water from a vase with the lilies. Vets say Easter lilies are among sever...

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Source: Examiner.com, Kristina Murphy Spring is finally here! Fleas and ticks are sure to follow. Are you prepared? Flea control is essential for a healthy and happy home and, of course, prevention is the best cure. Not only does flea prevention protect you and your pets from annoying fleabites, it prevents tapeworm infestation. Importance o...

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Source: The Seattle TimesCats and dogs are living longer, and sometimes presenting care issues for their owners.The average life expectancy of a cat has nearly doubled since 1930, with indoor cats living an average of 8 to 16 years, according to the Peoria (Ill.) Humane Society. The average life expectancy of a dog is 12.8 years, but the number var...

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Source: MiamiHerald.comGot a cat? Then you probably have a litterbox. As more cat owners tune in to the importance of keeping cats indoors (for their safety and for environmental concerns), the litterbox issue is becoming more critical to the health and welfare of our felines.Here's the scoop:The most common behavior problem reported in cats is ''h...

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Source: Examiner.com, Sandy Weaver Carman Fleas. They are the bane of our furry friends’ existence, and of ours, too when they get out of hand. And fleas are a species that can get out of hand very quickly. Once an infestation takes hold, it’s very tough to get rid of them, so the best way to not have fleas this summer is to start working on pre...

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People can guess pretty successfully what breed of dog a person might own just by looking at the owner, a new study finds.A group of 70 people who do not own dogs were asked to match photos of 41 dog owners to three possible breeds — Labrador, poodle or Staffordshire bull terrier.They matched the owners to the dogs more than half the time. Yet give...

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Weight problems are common in cats and dogs, and can be successfully managed through changes in food or a nutrition program. Combining a change in nutrition with increased exercise is the most effective way of achieving a healthy weight. Exercise tips for cats: –Encourage your cat to follow you when you move from room to room, particularly up and d...

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Source: CNNJacqui Read loves to hike with Buddy on the weekends.In the spring, they can spend a whole day exploring the outdoors near their Atlanta, Georgia, home. When they return home, they enjoy a nice meal and an evening on the sofa.But if it's been a bad day for pollen, Read breaks out the Benadryl. Two for her -- and three for Buddy.Buddy, th...

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It wasn’t long ago that one way the wealthy flashed their fortunes was by decking their dogs in Burberry collars and sending them for spa services.Now even the city’s wealthiest dog owners have cut their budgets and sometimes abandoned their dogs entirely.John Ziegler, co-founder of the Manhattan doggie gym with six locations called Biscuits and Ba...

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It seems that America has gotten a bit of a financial wake-up call, and we are all starting to pull our belts a little tighter. Fortunately, by learning to spend your veterinary dollar wisely, you can save money without compromising your pet's health. Follow these dos and don'ts to get the most for your veterinary dollar.Don't: Don't be penny-wise ...

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Prepare the whole family before bringing an animal into your home.For Malia and Sasha Obama, it was probably a bigger deal than their daddy becoming president and moving into the White House. In fact, news that the Obamas would get a new dog created quite a buzz across the nation. Hundreds of thousands of votes were taken on various Web sites on wh...

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When her dog Liza starting having seizures, Alison Taub was alone at home for the first time since having major surgery - and her regular vet was closed for the weekend. The problem turned out to be in Liza's heart. "The emergency vet was actually a specialist in heart problems and pacemakers, which was really lucky," she said. "But they were also ...

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After a long winter, it’s great to see the spring flowers starting to bloom. But the ASPCA warns that some of the most popular flowers and shrubs can pose a hazard to our pets. The Animal Poison Control Center received nearly 8,000 calls for plant poisoning in 2008. Here is a ASPCA list of some common plants that can be hazardous to your pet’s hea...

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Source: Examiner.com, Sharon HarleighLast week, I was walking Angel and found a dog who had apparently escaped from his home. He was clean, groomed, and well mannered, but had no collar or tag on him. Three of us stood there with our dogs, trying to figure out what to do. Several neighbors came out to see what was going on, but none of them recogni...

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Most people know that grapes/raisins and chocolate are toxic to dogs. However, there are other common items found in your garden or home that can poison a pet. Veterinary Pet Insurance Co. recently compiled a list of items most likely to cause toxic reactions in pets. The list was culled from 400 claims.Raisins/grapes, mushrooms, marijuana, lily, w...

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Source: Examiner.comMaurice AguirreYou know the type. A nervous anxious dog who seems fearful of just about anything – humans, other dogs, bicycles. Needless to say, a shy dog can be a problem for you, the owner. The type of behavior he exhibits and his complete lack of confidence will make it impossible for you to give him even the most basic trai...

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Source: ToledoBlade.comCLEVELAND hops. The city rocks, but the Cleveland I know hops. He was discovered with six other puppies in a cardboard box abandoned in a city alley. The Animal Protection League said it's rescuing a lot more animals dumped on the streets lately.In fact, it saw a 500 percent jump in the number of abandoned animals found last ...

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Fleas are a very common in cats and dogs. Fleas are external parasites. Once they get into your home or yard, it can be very difficult to get rid of them. Did you know…The average lifespan of a flea is two to three months, but fleas can survive without food for more than 100 days? A female flea consumes 15 times her body weight in blood daily an...

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Most people look forward to Spring's warmer temperatures, but it can also be a bad time for your pets. For dog owners like Erin Williams taking care of a four-legged friend takes a lot of responsibilty. "If I had a kid I would take him or her for shots and keep checkups. So that's kind of how we feel about our dog," Williams said.Dr. Jennifer Johns...

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Source: Baltimore SunLast week, we talked about parvovirus, which killed one of Oprah Winfrey’s puppies and sickened another. But as devastating as that disease is, it doesn’t make the list of the 10 most common conditions for pet insurance claims.According to Veterinary Pet Insurance, the nation’s oldest and largest provider of pet health insuranc...

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Source: MSNBC.comOwners facing hardship scramble for help or face ‘economic euthanasia’When Lara Yount saw her daughter holding the empty leash, she knew the news was bad. Daisy Mae, their 2-year-old beagle, had run away again, this time into the path of a passing car. “You could tell the leg was broken,” recalled Yount, 38, a mother of three from ...

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If a cat or dog shares your bed, you could be sleeping with thousands of fleas too, warns leading veterinary charity PDSA.The news comes as National Bed Month draws to a close with millions of owners and their pets throughout the UK facing more sleepless, scratchy nights.“Fleas thrive in a warm environment,” says PDSA Senior Veterinary Surgeon, Sea...

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Source: Urban Animal, InsideToronto.comDear UrbanAnimalTwo weeks ago I adopted a lovely four-month-old kitten named Petra from a local shelter. I'm certain she has fleas and the shelter has advised they don't treat kittens with flea control products as they can make young cats sick. Can you suggest a natural product that will be suitable for her? B...

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Source: HowStuffWorks.com­Driving with your pet seems like a no brainer, right? You put your pet in the back seat, close the door and drive. While it see­ms simple enough, that's not always the case. Maybe Princess gets very excited when traveling and has had a few accidents in your backseat. Buddy, meanwhile, sheds so much you aren't sure what col...

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After years of head scratching, a study offers proof that dogs really do resemble their owners — at least when purebreds are involved. Matching a mutt to her master is another story, according to Nicholas Christenfeld and Michael Roy, researchers from the University of California, San Diego (UCSD). The full report, "Do Dogs Resemble Their Owners?"w...

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Vets: Owners Cutting Back On Pet Care, But Preventive Measures Can Keep Pets Healthy, Save Owners $$Source: CBS NewsAn ounce of prevention is not only worth a pound of cure, but lots of saved money for pet owners. That's the message veterinarians are trying to get out as the economy takes a bigger and bigger toll on the health of our four-legged fr...

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Is your cat beginning to gray around the whiskers? Or lazing around the house more and more, eating less and becoming crankier? She may be showing the signs of old age. At one time it was unusual for a cat to live past the age of 10 or 12. But now, with modern medicine, more people keeping their cats indoors, proper care and love, it is not uncommo...

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The American Society for the Prevention to Cruelty to Animals has an Animal Poison Control Center in Urbana, Ill. In 2008 it handled more than 140,000 cases of pets exposed to toxic substances, many of which included everyday household products, according to its Web site. Below is a list of the top ten pet poisons in 2008 reported to the APCC. Huma...

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As the region prepares for a possible flood, the FM Humane Society asks pet owners to prepare their pets for an emergency situation.Owners should find a safe place for pets ahead of time, such as with family and friends who live elsewhere or by making arrangements at a hotel that accepts pets.Pets should wear up-to-date identification at all times....

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Naming your pet cements your mutual relationship, for good or ill. You may decide to accept a name already assigned to the animal, as we did when we took in Crystal, an older dog. Or you may decide your new pet needs a name picked by you, as we did with our first puppy, Amber. She’d been fostered under the name of some English city as I vaguely rec...

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Every month, lots of dog owners, and a few cat owners, give their pets some form of heartworm prevention. But recent studies are showing increasing numbers of heartworm positive pets across the country. Some people believe the worms now have the upper hand. Dog owners, and a growing number of cat owners understand that once -a-month heartworm preve...

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Spring arrives today. This happy season provides the fresh grass and outdoor play that pets and their owners enjoy. But it is not all fun and games. Spring also heralds the onset of heartworm season. Most dog owners are well-versed in the heartworm routine. Monthly at-home prevention and annual blood tests are the norm for Fido. If Kitty is your on...

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If we are what we eat, what does that say about the health of the average American pet? With increased rates of heart disease, cancer, arthritis, diabetes and many other ailments that similarly affect humans, Fido and Fluffy's diet is becoming of paramount concern to their owners."The number one question we get from customers is what food is the he...

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We have had our first tease of warm weather and the impending dose of springtime. With this warm weather, come many concerns regarding our pets. Are you prepared?I would argue that many of the so called “warm weather” actions we usually take for our pets should be considered year round. For instance, you are much better off using year round flea co...

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Dear UrbanAnimalEach spring I receive a letter from my vet clinic reminding me about heartworm prevention for my three dogs and two cats. And every spring I wonder why I'm spending the money. How prevalent is this disease in this part of the world? Gene There were 272 heartworm-positive dogs reported in Ontario in 2006. A small number considering t...

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Pet owners are fortunate to have access to many preventative medicines and procedures, but if you've never experienced a problem, you may wonder if the cost of prevention is worth it.For proof, take a look at these figures provided by Emily Pointer, veterinarian at the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals:--Heartworm diseasePre...

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