|
|
Posted on June 25, 2011 12:44
In one of its recent reports, the Banfield Pet Hospital in Portland has notified that the cats and dogs of America are becoming an easy victim of diabetes. Since 2006, the graph of diabetes victims has soared to 32 percent in dogs and 16 percent in cats.
The Banfield Pet Hospital and its members went through a grueling session to prepare the...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on June 25, 2011 12:28
In what could be a very huge setback and shock to pet owners, it has been found by an analysis conducted by the Ontario Veterinary College, that there is a huge increase in the cases of heartworm diseases in pets in Canada.
The study was conducted in 2010 and as compared to a previous study that was conducted eight years before in 2002 there...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on June 06, 2011 06:56
Certain drugs are known to have acute side effects to the health of the patient. One of the most trusted and used drugs for pets for prevention of fleas and ticks – Promeris -- has been found to cause Pemphigus Foliaceus (PF), an autoimmune disease that affects the skin of the dogs. Wounds are caused to pets’ faces. Nasal canals and ears are also a...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on May 11, 2011 08:39
As the temperature steadily rises you must be thinking about ways to keep yourself hydrated and cool. But the RSPCA reminds you that the same must be done for your pets as well. The move comes following a huge surge in the number of calls to RSPCA reporting a pet trapped in hot environment. According to official reports, within April 1-April 26 the...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on May 03, 2011 06:35
It is a known for quite some time now that the number of people suffering from diabetes in the United States is steadily increasing. But surprisingly, it has been revealed that diabetes diagnoses are increasing at a faster rate among pets, especially dogs and cats.
The revelation came in a report titled “State of Pet Health” that was based o...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on April 20, 2011 10:07
Recession might be cutting a hole in the average Americans’ pockets and they may be forced to stay away from big spending, but it is definitely not deterring for them to splurge on their pets. If a new survey is anything to go by, then spending on pets have gone up significantly in spite of the lean phase the American economy is going through. ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on April 18, 2011 15:28
Heartworm is a parasitic worm that has been plaguing pet dogs over the years and their owners have been losing sleep over it. The worm infects mostly mammals which include mainly dogs, ferrets and cats.
Mosquitoes are the carriers of this parasite and one bite of an infected mosquito might later have some serious ramifications if preventive ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on April 18, 2011 15:27
Due to the non-passing of the HAPPY Act (HR 3501) at the conclusion of the 11th Congress, many pet owners were left dejected. The passing of the bill could have been of great significance for pet owners as that would have surely relieved them of a huge burden and would have allowed them to have a tax credit of $3, 500 besides qualifying expens...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on April 11, 2011 05:58
Apart from human obesity, pet obesity is also becoming a growing concern in the US. A new study conducted jointly by the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention and Mars Inc.'s Banfield Pet Hospitals across the nation has found that more than half of the pet population are either overweight or obese, which means that more than 43 million dogs and 50...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on March 22, 2011 20:32
Veterinarians warn that with temperatures rising, heartworm parasites will now begin to mature, causing problems for your pets. Vets have declared this to be the heartworm season and they are urging pet-owners to start administering heartworm medications to their pets. According to them, the parasites start maturing when the temperature reaches 57 ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on March 19, 2011 11:21
How safe it is to kiss your pet mouth to mouth has been a topic of debate for many years. There are many myths regarding the issue and some pet owners even claim that the mouth of a dog or a cat is actually cleaner than a human mouth and thereby a “pet-smooch” acts as a disinfectant.
Dr. Paul Maza, who is the co-director of the health c...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on March 17, 2011 20:07
Your best friend, when it is your pet dog, can also make sure that you stay fit and fine! Dogs who have long been trusted as man’s best friend can also lead one to a healthier and physically active life. According to a study conducted by the Michigan State University, people who walked their dogs are 34% more likely to become fitter and...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on March 10, 2011 19:02
Source: Fort Gordon Signal
Is your pet on heartworm prevention? It is a simple question that has life-saving ramifications for your cat or dog. If you do not give your pet a monthly preventative, take a moment and keep reading. If you do give heartworm prevention, know your pet appreciates you!
What is heartworm disease and how does your pet be...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on March 07, 2011 18:32
Spring is just around the corner, and for you pet owners, you know what that means… that’s right, flea and tick season is upon us.
If you have ever dealt with a flea infestation, you know how important it is to protect your pets from these pesky critters.
If you haven’t faced off against fleas and ticks, consider this a helpful warning.
One flea...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on March 06, 2011 19:44
Most people dutifully brush their teeth not only to prevent cavities and gingivitis, but also to keep their breath smelling fresh. In just the same way, regular brushing for dogs can ensure good dental hygiene and reduce the infamous "doggy breath."
Many pet parents believe that bad dog breath is a package deal and comes along with having a dog....
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on March 06, 2011 19:18
With spring just around the corner, make sure your pets are protected from warm weather critters.
By Ashley Wilbourn
Spring is just around the corner, and daylight savings time begins a week from today. It's possible that we have made it through one of the harshest winters in years and are heading toward warmer, more sunlight filled ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on March 03, 2011 11:41
Source: USA Today
Did you know your pet can not tolerate drugs you might use on a daily basis? Even something as simple as ibuprofen is on the list of drugs that aren't safe for your furry friends, according to a story from HealthDay News.
"Administration of human medications should only occur with the recommendation and supervision of ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on March 03, 2011 11:34
Source: New York Times
I’m part owner of a nervous little dog with a bark like an ice pick through my brain and a tendency to use that weapon at random, several times a day.
Pippi, who is officially my wife’s dog, also has a fondness for dark chocolate. And when we make the mistake of leaving it within her reach, her behavior approximates that ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on February 14, 2011 19:13
February is National Pet Dental Health Month. For more than 15 years, veterinarians around the country have been using this month as an extra opportunity to educate pet owners about the importance of dental health. According to the American Veterinary Dental Society, 80 percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats show signs of oral disease...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on February 09, 2011 19:38
We want the best for our pets.
We want them to have the best foods, good health care, a good environment, and so on. Sometimes, however, we may not know just what is best for them. Parasite prevention in dogs is an example, and one where a veterinarian can help.
Heartworm disease involves a worm living in the heart and blood vessels near the he...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on February 07, 2011 18:38
Source: MiamiHerald.com
Q: What is catnip?
A: Everyone has a weakness. For me, it's salted caramel ice cream. For my dog, Lulu, it's expensive shoes. For most cats, it's catnip. Here are five things every cat lover should know about this mysterious product that drives cats batty.
1. Catnip is an actual plant.
A member of the mint family, Nepe...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on February 07, 2011 06:56
Though debate over national health coverage continues, cats and dogs have nothing to fear. Americans spent $12.4 billion on veterinary care in 2009 and another $3 billion on medication alone.
“People take much better care of their animals,” said Greg Hammer, past president of the Schaumburg-based American Veterinary Medical Association. “I...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on February 05, 2011 08:19
By: Dr. Michael Fox, INFORUM
Dear Dr. Fox: We have a problem with our mini beagle and wonder if you can supply some advice.
About two years ago, she developed epilepsy. Our vet said we would see how she did, and she went another year without an attack. Then they began to happen quite frequently, and she was put on Phenobarbital, a 32 mg tabl...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on February 03, 2011 18:05
By Dr. Chante Wildgoose
Pet Corner
Most pet owners have become very educated about their pets and the health of their pets. Still, there are many others who tend to believe in the old wives tales and myths that have been passed around for ages. Not sure what to believe when it comes to the health and well-being of your dog or cat? Well, read on! ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on February 03, 2011 17:45
By MELINDA SARTE, DVM
Working in the veterinary field, I often repeatedly hear some myths that seem to be steeped into our culture.
Some of these myths may have originally had a grain of truth to them, but are now outdated. Some are leftover “wisdom” from a time before we had newer and safer ways of treating what ails our canine and feline fami...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on January 31, 2011 17:18
In response to the American Kennel Club’s announcement of the top dog breeds in America, Trupanion, North America’s fastest growing pet health insurance company, today revealed common health concerns associated with these breeds.
Here are the top five most popular dog breeds in America, and the health characteristics of each:
Labrad...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on January 19, 2011 19:48
DEAR PAW’S CORNER: My dog has such terrible bad breath. How can I improve this? — Beth in Rhode Island
DEAR BETH: Take your dog to the veterinarian to be checked out, especially if the bad breath just started or just got worse in recent days or weeks. Sometimes bad breath is just a hygiene issue, but it also can signal an underlying illn...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on January 18, 2011 19:01
One preventive found to be 100 percent effective againstDirofilaria immitis strain.
Historically, heartworm disease has been effectively prevented in dogs by using available preventives. However, recent research indicates that some field isolates and laboratory strains of Dirofilaria immitis may not be fully susceptible to preventiv...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on January 18, 2011 18:20
Here is a list of fabulous resources online—about pet ownership, pet health, pet massage, and the other top topics you've asked us to discuss.
THINKING OF ADOPTING (OR BUYING) A PET?
A-Z information about dog adoption is offered on Petfinder, and they help you think through your choice. This is the "What Color Is Your Parachute?" site for pet see...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on January 16, 2011 18:12
By KAREN STEINROCK
As frigid temperatures persist and the prospect of heavy snow looms, humans take every precaution to stay warm and comfortable. We protect our bodies with all matter of insulated garb, race off to the store for last minute provisions, rent DVD’s, gas up the snow blower and wait for “the big one”.
But what about four-legg...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on January 16, 2011 17:43
Dear Ollie: I am writing this letter to say that I am no big fan of winter. During this last week, snow has been falling, falling and falling. I hate it.
And I am really distressed when my owner ties me outside and my water dish freezes. Then my breath becomes cloudy and I begin to shake.
Why does my owner think it is OK to tie me outside al...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on January 13, 2011 08:12
The Pet Poison Helpline, a 24/7 animal poison control based in Minneapolis, has listed the top five cat toxins of 2010.
Human/veterinary medications: 40%
About 40 percent of feline cases at Pet Poison Helpline in 2010 involved cats that improperly ingested human or veterinary drugs. Cats have difficulty metabolizing certain drugs, esp...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on January 10, 2011 20:27
It is very important that you take your puppy to the veterinarian within the first week of purchasing him/her. Even if the place where you purchased the puppy says he/she is up to date with vaccinations for the time being, there is generally a certain time period that the facility or breeder will be responsible for any medical conditions your...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on January 08, 2011 20:47
If you have pets at home and have been very happy about their pot bellies then hold on. A research conducted by the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association reveal that pet obesity will put them under a risk of developing serious health problems like arthritis and diabetes. According to reports, about 44 per cent of dogs that is 33 million, were ove...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on January 03, 2011 16:26
For many a pet owner, Max sounds mundane and Bailey is simply boring. In order to pay homage to those who take pride in their pets’ unconventional names, Veterinary Pet Insurance set out for the third year in a row to find the 50 most unusual dog and cat names in the United States.
VPI employees selected the most unusual dog names from the company...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on January 03, 2011 16:23
US pet insurance company Veterinary Pet Insurance Co. (VPI), one of the largest and oldest providers of pet health, has revealed the top pet names over the past year. Bella tops the names for dogs, Max for cats, while Charlie was the most popular choice for exotic pets.
This was the second year in a row that Bella toppe...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on January 02, 2011 08:05
Popular American talk-show hostess Ellen DeGeneres, in conjunction with her holistic pet care line Halo, recently announced that they had “delivered” on their promise of donating one million meals to shelter pets awaiting adoption.
“At Halo we want to promote healthy living for pets and eating good food is a big part of that,” expla...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on December 31, 2010 11:25
Q: Is it necessary to give my dog heartworm prevention during the winter?
A: The American Heartworm Society recommends year-round heartworm prevention for cats and dogs starting at 6 weeks of age. The AHS information comes from a panel of experts including several veterinary parasitologists; they are considered the leading experts on heartworms.
...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on December 30, 2010 08:09
Charlie and Bella topped the MSPCA-Angell’s list of Top Pet Names of 2010. Charlie won out for male dogs, unseating Max from 2009, and Oliver made the top of the list for male cats. For the second year in a row Bella was the most popular name among female dogs and the name Zoe was tops among female cats. The list was compiled from thousands of...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on December 30, 2010 07:45
Source: Dogster.com
Pet ownership involves many responsibilities: shelter, health care, nutrition, exercise, and insuring they're taken care if you go away. But what about their care if you pass away for good, leaving them behind with, perhaps, many good years left for them?
There's been a rise in pet wills, as seen in the case of Leona Helmsle...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on December 30, 2010 07:40
By Dr. Ellen Friedman
For pet lovers, it's time to look back through this year and forward to those years to come.
We remember our companions lost and smile on the new ones we love. We hold them all close and even closer to our hearts, and resolve to give our pets more love, more care and more attention.
We remember that indoor-outdoor p...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on December 29, 2010 10:18
By Dr. Michael Watts
Q: Our Maltese woke up this morning slobbering and very anxious. She is shaking, has a dry nose and may be feverish. She has not been exposed to any toxins or rabid animals. My husband is sick with a severe throat. Could she have caught this from him?
A: It is unusual for pets and people to share most germs...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on December 29, 2010 09:33
Every winter, humane societies across the nation brace for an avalanche of calls about dogs and cats left outside with no food or shelter.
The Dyersburg/Dyer County Humane Society certainly does. But this year has been a little different.
"Things have been quiet compared to years past," shelter supervisor Derrick Avery said.
Although the humane ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on December 22, 2010 12:44
Whether it's freezing weather, a chocolate treat or the tinsel your cat is playing with, this time of year holds its own unique challenges to dogs and cats.
By Franklin Tucker
The cold weather – the most bitter stretch of freezing temperatures are expected to begin tomorrow, Wednesday, Dec 15, and last through the weekend – and holi...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on December 22, 2010 11:50
Source: NewsLeader.com
It's that time of year — and if your little one has been begging for a kitten or pup and Santa has agreed this year, good for you. Having a pet offers a child a lot of advantages. The bonding comes naturally, and not quite as naturally but just as important are the lessons of responsibility. There's nothing quite like having...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on December 20, 2010 06:21
By Patty Khuly Special for USA TODAY
Let's say your cat has proven herself an expensive adoptee over the years. She's managed to a) break her leg after falling off a shelf; b) develop diabetes in mid-life; and c) not so long after, surprise you with a nasty — but treatable — form of brain cancer.
A couple of years later, tumor in remission afte...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on December 20, 2010 06:15
This holiday season, share seasonal celebrations and traditions with the entire family, including four-legged family members.
"The holidays are about being with our loved ones - and that includes our pets, too," said PetSmart Veterinarian and Pet Care Expert Dr. Robyn Jaynes. "Whether it's including your pet in a family photo, taking them on a fam...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on December 20, 2010 06:13
By Leslie Gallagher
Are you thinking of getting a puppy or dog for Christmas?
Although Christmas is a popular time to acquire a new family member, it can also backfire rather quickly. Here's a comprehensive checklist for you to go through before you bring home that cute little puppy or dog.
Have you done your homework on which breed is best fo...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on December 18, 2010 09:45
Petfinder.com's annual results are in, and everybody needs a Buddy (or a Lucy) underfoot.
It appears that imagination has gone the way of the economy, since for the fourth consecutive year, "Buddy" fetched the top spot as the most popular moniker for adoptable dogs. For cats, "Lucy" once again purred its way into first place, barely s...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on December 14, 2010 18:53
Each year during the winter months, the Humane Society of Huron Valley (HSHV) receives calls about animals left out in the elements without adequate protection. Plunging winter temperatures can be extremely dangerous for companion animals.
“Even though Michigan state law doesn’t prevent dogs from living outside, we remind people that the...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on December 14, 2010 18:50
It is no secret that we lavish our dogs with love and attention. We buy them holiday gifts, spoil them with gourmet treats, organize play dates, take trips to the dog park, and pamper them with medicated baths, massages, and designer toys. As a direct result, the pet care industry has experienced growth while most sectors of the economy have contin...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on December 14, 2010 18:23
THE OWNERS of Paris, an adorable blue-eyed kitten, watched helplessly this week as their innocent mistake cost the kitten her life.
Concerned about a reported regional tick infestation they had given the kitten a flea and tick treatment.
Unfortunately they gave the tiny 12-week-old ragdoll-cross a treatment meant for a dog.
Local Vet Ron M...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on December 13, 2010 14:41
Source: USA Today
By Patty Khuly, Special for USA TODAY
According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, more than 50% of our pets are overweight or obese. According to me, that stat is off by about 20% — and not in a direction that bodes well for our pets' health.
Yes, our pets' waistlines have ballooned along with our own. As America...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on December 13, 2010 10:22
Source: THOnline.com
Dr. Alison: I am considering taking care of a colony of outdoor cats and am wondering about possible hazards and best methods of combat. -- Julia
Julia: There are several concerns you should be aware of in caring for outdoor cats.
* Infections are common as a result of contact with other cats. The most common infections in...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on December 09, 2010 15:13
Source: Pet Talk
Modern times have promoted lack of activity due to the busy schedules people lead. In order for people to live healthy, well-balanced lives they need to stay active with an exercise routine. The same is true for pets as they continue to naturally become more sedentary than their predecessors. According to the Association for Pet O...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on December 09, 2010 12:54
The Oregon Veterinary Medical Association and its member veterinarians share the following tips for keeping your pets safe and warm this winter:
Antifreeze Danger
Antifreeze is toxic to your pet's kidneys and can have deadly consequences. The ethylene glycol in antifreeze is sweet tasting and appealing to cats and dogs. As little as one-half ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on December 08, 2010 20:22
BY LIZ GOFF
Finding a puppy, kitten or other furry friend under the tree is a sure way to put a smile on the faces of children and adults on Christmas morning.
If you are thinking of putting a puppy or any other pet under your Christmas tree this holiday season, make sure you consider the responsibilities of pet ownership before wrapping up t...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on December 07, 2010 15:25
Source: TheStar.com
The holiday season is meant to be a time of joy and celebration. To keep the festivities bright, consider pet-proofing your home. The following safety precautions can go a long way toward making it a safe — and fun — holiday.
Never leave flames unattended: Candles and the Hanukkah menorah are integral components...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on December 07, 2010 03:37
When you suspect something is wrong with your pet, the obvious move is to take it to the vet. But there are times when that's not as simple as it sounds.
Perhaps it's the middle of the night and you aren't sure the situation warrants a visit to the pet emergency room. Or maybe the nearest vet is too far away, such as on the island of Moloka...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on December 06, 2010 09:40
Pet experts offer advice to ensure that every member of your family has a happy holiday.
The holidays are closing in and that means pet owners are faced with the difficult question of what to do with their pets.
The unfortunate reality of holiday travel is that many pet owners will be unable to find a reasonable manner in which to bring their...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on October 18, 2010 05:47
Beware of the many dangers Halloween presents to your pets.
Trick-or-Treat candy is not for your furry friends. Some of the goodies can make them sick and even cause life-threatening emergencies.
Kathleen Engelby, practice manager at North Ogden Animal Hospital, said chocolate is poisonous to cats, dogs and ferrets because of the large amou...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on October 18, 2010 05:44
Source: Victoria Times Colonist
When Canadians look at the United States, we sometimes feel that money plays too large a role there. It's particularly obvious in health care.
American families often face an agonizing dilemma -- whether to pay for treatments that are medically vital, but financially ruinous. Whatever its de...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on October 16, 2010 21:59
CHOOSING a pet and welcoming them into your home is not a decision to be taken lightly.
Getting it wrong can have disastrous consequences for both animal and owner, especially when you consider it could be a partnership that lasts for many years.
That is why vets at the PDSA have issued a plea to prospective pet owners, urging them to take...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on October 16, 2010 21:49
Often Brush your dog
Your pets skin should be kept moist and healcan be achieved by brushing as it stimulates oils in it. Also it prevents matting of your dogs coat and eliminates dead hair so there is no problem with shedding. By brushing, you also show your dog attention.
Maintain the proper length of your dogs nails
It is...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on October 15, 2010 15:15
Source: The Dog Channel
Everyone wants to help their pets live longer and healthier lives. The key? Early recognition of issues that come naturally with aging, says Donna J. Spector, D.V.M., of VCA Animal Hospitals.
Read on for her tips for keeping your senior dog’s life golden:
1. Figure out your d...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on October 15, 2010 15:07
Source: Star-Telegram.com
If you, like so many pet owners, treat your animals like you would your children, then you want only the best for them -- including the best health. But when it comes to pet health, mistakes are easy to make -- and common.
Local veterinarians share their advice for avoiding the worst healthcare mistakes...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on October 15, 2010 14:56
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on October 12, 2010 20:01
Tipping the scales at 97 pounds, Sam was a chubby black Labrador retriever. Partial to meat, potatoes and the occasional mouthful of popcorn, he was a fine dinner companion and not very old when walking became difficult because of excessive weight. Today, Sam is a trim 85 pounds, much closer to the recommended weight range for his breed. His ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on October 12, 2010 19:59
After a few months of oscillating between indoor and outdoor living, it's time to prepare pets for cold weather and residing in closed quarters. To make sure your home is fresh and clean through the seasonal transition and that pets stay healthy and odor-free, consider these tips.
* Prevent unpleasant odors. Pet odors are a downside ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on October 12, 2010 19:39
Source: AikenStandard.com
Whether you have owned pets for years or just adopted your first animal in the past few days, there are some things you need to remember to make the pet's life as healthy and happy as you want it to be.
* The importance of proper nutrition can't be overstated. A good quality dog or cat food is vital...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on October 06, 2010 14:00
Officials recommend advance planning
By Vickie Aldous
Ashland Daily Tidings
Homes were already on fire when Ashland Police Officer Steve MacLennan told an elderly couple living on Oak Knoll Drive that they had to evacuate.
"Let's do it quick, 'cause the houses on the side of you are up in flames," he said as the A...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on October 06, 2010 13:58
Question — I've had numerous animals all my life. Awhile back, I came home from the doctor's office with an ear infection. After I got home, my cats and I went to bed, with one cat on either side of me and one at the top of the bed. They kept rotating and softly purring until I was completely relaxed.
Another time, my dogs Chubby an...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on October 04, 2010 19:39
By DR. ROGER REDMAN
There is a little known fact about me. I'm allergic to animals! Yes, you heard that right -- the veterinarian is allergic to his patient. Since the age of 5 or 6 I've had severe animal allergies. Perhaps I chose the wrong profession to work in, but I love what I do. And I think it's my own struggle with allergie...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on October 03, 2010 19:41
Source: WinfieldCourier.com
What do you think when you hear the name Einstein? Most of think of that picture of the physicist who discovered the theory of relativity.
When the staff at Cowley County Humane Society hears the name Einstein, they think of a dog who almost wasn’t. Why? Because he was high heartworm positive.
Einste...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on October 03, 2010 19:12
Cooler weather is on the way and many pet owners may consider it time to stop giving their pets some of their preventative treatments, but a local veterinarian says some treatments, like heartworm medication, should actually be continued year-round.
"First of all heartworm is a deadly disease and even treatment can be deadl...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on October 03, 2010 17:13
Source: AnnArbor.com
Imagine being on an outing with your pooch and a medical emergency arises. You're feeling as unprepared as you could possibly be, and time is of the essense.
iPhone users rejoice - there's an app that could potientally help you save your pets life. Pet First Aid, developed by Jive Media is now available...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on September 28, 2010 20:03
This invention allows you to catch poop before it hits the ground so you no longer need to bend over and pick it up.
Visit the website at http://thecatchitwastecollector.com/ and watch the video.
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on September 28, 2010 19:58
Source: TCPalm
Animal care organizations on the Treasure Coast say a bad economy has left more dogs in danger of getting lethal heartworm.
The deadly disease, which is spread by mosquitoes, is easily prevented with a monthly pill. But since a vet visit and blood test are required, some pet owners may not have the money to keep man...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on September 28, 2010 19:53
Pet emergencies always seem to happen when your family veterinary office is closed, don't they? You're having a great time and suddenly your pet seems ill. Is it sick enough for a trip to the emergency clinic?
No one wants to see a pet in pain or in danger. But every day, people spend money they didn't need to for emergency clinic trips th...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on September 28, 2010 19:46
Prices can cost more than double via your vet
Source: Which.co.uk
Consumers who don't have pet insurance are paying more than twice as much to cure pet ailments if they go to their vet rather than shopping online or on the high street.
Research reveals that best-selling pet drugs can cost considerably more through health ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on September 27, 2010 12:27
The problems of poor diet and a sedentary lifestyle aren't exclusive to people. Many pets don't get proper nutrition or enough exercise, which can lead to obesity and a host of other pet health problems.
According to a recent PetSmart survey, 93 percent of pet parents believe what they feed their pet matters to the pet's health and w...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on September 20, 2010 12:42
Source: New York Times
Less than 2 percent of cats in animal shelters make it back to their owners, whereas about 15 to 19 percent of dogs are returned, and one reason is that more dogs wear collars.
Putting collars on some of the country’s 88 million cats may help change this situation, according to a new study publis...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on September 20, 2010 12:29
Certain types of exercise may help ease stiffness and pain in dogs with arthritis, a new study suggests.
Using a special treadmill and a computer program, Austrian researchers examined the movements of joints in the front and back legs of dogs as they did three types of exercises: walking uphill, walking downhill and walking over low obsta...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on September 19, 2010 19:21
Source: MSNBC.com
As our waistlines have ballooned, so has the girth of our dogs and cats
Jennie the German shepherd-heeler mix had always been an agile dog. So when Maribeth Ashley, the owner of the 6-year-old rescue dog, noticed that Jennie was having trouble getting in and out of the car for trips to the park, she was...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on September 17, 2010 14:09
by Melissa Breyer
Pet owners know that dogs and cats often have a penchant for eating strange things. Cats often gravitate toward plastic or wool, and many a dog will chew on whatever it can get its chops around. And then there are plants. Whether garden plants, houseplants, plants in the wild, or flowers from the f...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on September 17, 2010 14:06
Record high heat and rainy days mean more bugs and increased risk of heartworm in dogs.
More mosquito bites than usual this summer? You’re not alone. Record high heat and wet days over the last several months have increased mosquito activity across much of the U.S.
Unfortunately, more mosquitoes mean more cases of mosquito-relat...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on September 16, 2010 13:07
A consensus statement is in the works to address questions surrounding the development of resistance to heartworm preventives.
In fact, leaders from the American Heartworm Society and Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC) met in late August to "explore the potential relationships between resistance to heartworm products and veteri...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on September 14, 2010 19:12
As much as we want to believe our pooches are perfect, there are times when this is just not true. However, there is good news - It can be true! According to Brice Cavanaugh at Total Dog! Dog Training Solutions, dog problems can be solved with the proper care and guidance. You can break those bad habits with packages from Total Dog! Dog Train...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on September 14, 2010 19:09
By Angela Pollock
Interceptor for dogs is a prescription medication used to prevent a host of internal parasites. According to the manufacturer, Interceptor “prevents heartworm disease, controls adult hookworm, and removes and controls adult roundworm and whipworm infections in dogs and puppies.” Like with most all medications, this ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on September 14, 2010 18:58
At the Lynchburg Humane Society, we always chuckle to ourselves when people come in the shelter looking for a “house dog.”
When confronted with this phrase, most people think of Chihuahuas, yorkies, dachshunds and other small breeds. Some people have the mistaken impression that small dogs are easier to deal with in a home —however, t...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on September 14, 2010 06:03
They might not understand the aerobics instructions and they can't use free weights, but it's possible that our pets may be just as valuable as expensive exercise machines in helping us humans lose weight.
A 12-month study recently completed has shown that exercising with your dog has several positive benefits for both owner and pets. The ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on September 12, 2010 13:30
By BILL SCHMICK
This year, we will spend approximately $48 billion on our pets, vaulting the pet-care sector to the seventh or eight largest retail sector in the United States. That’s an almost 5 percent increase versus last year’s spending, and revenues are expected to top $56 billion by 2014. What’s fueling this steady growth is the 62 p...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on September 12, 2010 12:28
Britain's reputation as a nation of animal lovers has been underlined by a new survey showing that many dog and cat owners would make personal sacrifices to ensure their pet is healthy.
Indeed, the poll by Tesco Bank found that almost half (46 per cent) of this group have insurance for their four-legged friends, while only 36 per cent have...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on September 12, 2010 11:58
By Tom Grady
An interesting bill, stuck at the committee level in the U.S. House of Representatives, could offer some relief from health care costs for pet guardians.
HR 3501, or the HAPPY Act (Humanity and Pets Partnered Through the Years), allows a tax deduction of up to $3,500 per year for pet care expenses.
I assume t...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on September 07, 2010 14:39
This hot, rainy weather is great for umbrella sales and growing grass, but the stagnant puddles and stifling humidity make great breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
These blood-sucking parasites thrive this time of year and are known transmitters of many dangerous and potentially fatal diseases, including West Nile Virus.
Unfortunat...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on September 03, 2010 10:55
Source: BCLocalNews.com
Planning a fall getaway and want Fido or Felix to share in the fun?
As you prepare for your pet’s big adventure, here are a few travel do’s (and one travel don’t) to help get you off to the right start:
Do visit your veterinarian before you leave to ensure your pet is ready to travel.
Request an...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on September 03, 2010 10:41
By Dr. Beth Davidow, DACVECC
The illness of a loved family pet is always stressful. It is more stressful when finances are tight and a veterinary visit is needed. Preparation in advance and knowing some important questions to ask may help either avoid high veterinary bills or help make payment more manageable.
Tip One: Pet proof y...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on August 30, 2010 15:06
By Rebecca Settergren
I first heard of heartworm disease in dogs when I was living in Santa Cruz during the early seventies. The veterinarians in the area never mentioned it because it was not, at that time, endemic to the area.
Some friends of mine were sending their golden retriever off to a field trainer in the Sacramento...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on August 20, 2010 09:56
By Allison Lind
Somehow in the midst of cooing and belly scratching, our beloved pets create a consistent mess -- follow these tips to keep on top of it.
No pet owner will argue against the following: Our pets are our children. From the day they enter our homes, they solidify a spot in the family tree. And, of course, like all of ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on August 20, 2010 09:50
By Angela Pollock
Even the most well-intentioned cat owner can make mistakes with their pet’s care. In many cases, it’s not a case of neglect but simply not fully knowing all that it requires to care for their cat – until it’s too late. The top 5 common mistakes cat owners make may seem like common sense. Surprisingly, there ar...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on August 20, 2010 09:46
Source: ReporterNews.com
by Jeff Craig
The summer season may be coming to an end, but fleas and ticks are running strong.
The flea population in the Big Country has been particularly bad this summer due to above average rainfall, said Larry Ellis with Abilene Veterinary Clinic. Ellis said the tick population has been smal...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on August 18, 2010 06:26
Source: Sacramento Bee
Spot a flea or two on your dog or cat, and the reaction is likely to be a slight shudder and a mental note to check the calendar to see if it's time for the monthly application of a few magic drops between the shoulder blades.
But spot a tick or two on your pet, and the reaction is more likely to be ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on August 17, 2010 06:42
Source: www.SFGate.com
We love our pets for their curious nature, but that same curiosity can often get them in to trouble. That's why it's up to us to keep potentially harmful substances out of paws' reach.
Here are the five most common pet-poisoning emergencies, according to the Center for Animal Referral and Emergenc...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on August 16, 2010 12:52
Source: The Queens Courier
By: Justin Chan
It seems as if mosquitoes pose as much of a threat to pets as they do to humans. Aside from causing extreme itchiness, mosquitoes can endanger both dogs and cats by spreading a life-threatening disease known as Heartworm disease.
Heartworm disease originates from a parasitic worm...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on August 14, 2010 11:40
A pet health care professional has urged dog owners to be vigilant of their dogsdrinking habits as it could offer an insight into the pets wellbeing. Dr Tracy Dewhirst acknowledges that pets will naturally drink more in the summer months as the warmer weather dehydrates animals, but Dr Dewhirst has...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on August 14, 2010 11:36
Source: Hints from Heloise
Dear Readers: If you have a dog, it should be on a heartworm preventative medication no matter where you live. It used to be that if you lived in areas with harsh winters, you didn't have to give the pet the medication during the winter months. Now, the American Heartworm Society (www.heartwormsociety.o...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on August 10, 2010 19:49
If you've just moved to a new town or if you've recently adopted a pet, one of the first things you'll want to do is to find a veterinarian you can trust to care for your animal's health. But how is the best way to do that?
Paw Nation asks Louise Murray, D.V.M., Vice President of the ASPCA's Bergh Memorial Animal Hospital i...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on August 09, 2010 20:12
Source: The Daily Cat
You most likely prepare questions for your own doctor's appointments, so why not do the same for your cat? "If you are coming in for your cat's annual wellness visit or a sick visit, write down your questions ahead of time," says Dr. Elizabeth A. Dole, a veterinarian who practices at Stack Veterinary Hospital ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on August 09, 2010 20:10
Veterinarians Say Bad Economy To Blame
By Lesley Tanner
Metro Atlanta veterinarians are reporting higher than normal instances of heartworm. The deadly disease is a parasite spread by mosquitoes and is easily prevented with proper medication.
Donna Rosser was concerned about her dog's health after she adopted a pet from the Fayet...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on August 04, 2010 20:45
Source: Pittsburgh Post-GazetteEven the most lovable pets sometimes do things that drive owners crazy. Dogs that "can't" be housebroken and cats that urinate or defecate outside the litter box are high on the list of behavior problems that cause some people to give up and relinquish their pet to a shelter.So it is very fitting that a renowned veter...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on August 04, 2010 20:42
Source: Coloradoan.comWe’ve had a few small pets in our home over the years, all dearly loved by our children, but we haven’t quite committed to having a dog yet.We came really close a while ago, but then backed off after taking a hard look at our kids’ activities and school commitments. The idea of having dogs in our house that don’t get their sha...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on August 04, 2010 20:14
Source: PalmBeachPost.comby Dr. Susan BakerQuestion: I am new to South Florida. I don’t want to leave my pets if a hurricane comes. What should I do? — ElsaAnswer: You are doing the right thing by being prepared.Here are some options: Stay with a pet-loving friend who has hurricane shutters and is not in an evacuation zone; find a pet-friendly hote...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 29, 2010 20:25
Whether you enjoy games, hobbies, or your interests involve pets, there is an iPad app available to suit your needs. With the thousands of applications being made for the iPad (and iPhone), there are some that are perfect for people who own pets. The best iPad apps for pet owners provide unique features that are available right at your fingertips.L...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 29, 2010 19:41
Pets can add fun, companionship and a feeling of safety to our lives. So picking out, taking care of and keeping safe our ``best friend'' should be of the utmost importance.Be a better pet owner with these tips from The Federal Citizen Information Center:• Choosing a pet: Before adopting or purchasing any pet, you and your family should take a real...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 29, 2010 19:06
Vet Jennie answers your questions about pet care in this weekly advice column, created in partnership with the Bahrain Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (BSPCA). We will also be highlighting each week some of the animals in the BSPCA sanctuary, in the hope of finding each of them a loving home.Question: I have recently bought a littl...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 26, 2010 19:22
As we all know that cleaning of the teeth is the most basic thing that every human must do. These basic habits should be cultivated to every child in the house. Brushing your teeth twice a day helps to prevent a lot of dental problems like cavities, mouth ulcers , bad breath etc.Just like how we learn to keep our selves clean, we should also make t...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 26, 2010 19:04
Dear readers,A recent UrbanAnimal column focused on heartworm in dogs and its prevalence, prevention and cure. A small mention was included about heartworm in cats that concluded it's not a real concern, especially to those of us in southern Ontario.A friend of mine, now living in Texas, contacted me to let me know heartworm prevention is just as i...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 20, 2010 20:49
Source: Ottawa Citizen Q: My wife and I spend almost every weekend up at our cottage with our Labrador retriever, Sammy. Sammy loves to swim in the lake and wanders all over our property. Last weekend, we were getting ready to give him a bath and we found two ticks on him. We pulled them off right away and applied an antibiotic cream to the affect...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 20, 2010 20:37
Families love their pets, but do they ever stop and think about how much money animals cost?Dr. Jeanne Eisenhour says, "When you buy a car, there's a responsibility in owning that car. There's a bigger responsibility in owning a pet, there's no question. But there's also a cost involved in that. And I don't think many people sit down and tally up a...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 20, 2010 20:35
Source: USA TodayBrute, a German Shepherd, lay anesthetized on an operating table, his hairy chest under a plastic cover and his powerful paws taped immobile."Here comes the wire up the artery!" said Dr. Chick Weisse, who infused the dog's cancerous liver with chemotherapy via a catheter at the century-old Animal Medical Center in Manhattan in an e...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 15, 2010 18:39
By Dr. Richard PalmquistYour pet's health starts from the inside out. This means that nutrition and diet management are just as important as proper grooming and hygiene practices. Health is an active condition that we create each day through our choices and actions, so follow these seven tips for optimal health for your pet!Provide Clean Water At A...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 15, 2010 18:35
There's a lot about Arizona that residents can brag about, including plenty of sunshine, low humidity and no annoying daylight savings time. However, one of the greatest benefits is what the state lacks, mosquitoes. That may no longer be the case however; an increasing number of fabricated water features and stagnant swimming pools in foreclosed...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 14, 2010 13:39
Where is Fido top dog?
Dog Fancy, which claims to be the world's most widely read dog magazine, has named Provincetown, Mass., the winner of the 2010 DogTown USA competition, saluting it as America's most dog-friendly city.
This year's contest named the Top 40 dog-friendly cities across the U.S. in honor of Dog Fancy's 40th annivers...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 14, 2010 13:36
Source: InsideToronto.com
Dear UrbanAnimal,
There is an email circulating to warn people one out of four dogs in Ontario will be heartworm positive by the end of this summer. My dog has been tested and he's on a preventive product, but many dogs aren't. I've attached a copy of the email in case you haven't seen it.
B.J.
Eeeekkkk...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 14, 2010 13:31
Travel tips from the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
Summer has arrived and vacation planning is in full swing! Travelers with pets will need to plan ahead and consider a few things advance of take-off:
1. Make sure your pet is current with vaccinations.
2. Discuss the pros and cons of sedating you...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 11, 2010 18:19
More than 60 percent of dogs leave their veterinary clinic each year without a heartworm preventative medication, according to the American Heartworm Society, and that’s putting thousands of pets at risk.
In the St. Louis region, most clinics report treating six to 25 cases of heartworm each year, according to the society. The dise...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 11, 2010 18:02
As the temperature soars, your four-legged friends are also suffering.
Dogs cannot sweat to cool down like humans; they sweat slightly through their paw pads, but mostly through panting.
Wayne Parcelle, president and CEO of the Humane Society of the United States , sat down with FOX 5 Morning News to discuss precautions owners nee...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 11, 2010 17:32
I wonder if doctors will begin to write prescriptions for their patients to acquire a cat, especially if they suffer from cardiovascular disease?
A recent study conducted by the Stroke Research Center at the University of Minnesota has determined that individuals are less likely to die of heart attacks or other cardiovascular disease...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 11, 2010 08:38
According to the Humane Society of San Antonio, consistency and patience are crucial when trying to get your pet to reach its healthy weight.
We caught up with Cathy McCoy, the local chapter's director of public relations and commuity outreach, to help shed some "pounds" on the subject.
Question: On average, how many pets suffer from o...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 09, 2010 06:53
We all love spending the long, sunny days of summer outdoors with four legged companions, but being overeager in hot weather can spell danger, warn ASPCA experts. Even the healthiest pets can suffer from dehydration, heat stroke and sunburn if overexposed to the heat, and heat stroke can be fatal if not treated promptly.
Take s...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on June 29, 2010 21:02
DOZENS of pet pooches across Renfrewshire are suffering dental pain and losing teeth due to poor diets and lack of routine dental care, a leading vets charity has claimed.
Despite a slight decrease in doggy dental disease over the past two years, more than 15 per cent of dogs are still thought to be suffering from oral problems - a f...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on June 29, 2010 20:59
By Dr. Dalane Epp
Summer has come and with it come the usual summertime pests, fleas, ticks and flies. While fleas can cause year-round problems, warm and humid weather is their favorite. As you can imagine, Nebraska summers fit the profile rather nicely.
Fleas can be picked up almost anywher...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on June 29, 2010 20:54
By Lisa Wade McCormick
Celebrating the Fourth of July with fireworks and good food is a tradition with families nationwide.
But those celebrations can be dangerous to the four-legged members of your family, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) warns.
To protect your...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on June 27, 2010 07:04
Q. I just moved to New Jersey from Georgia. In Georgia, my veterinarian always recommended heartworm preventative because it is a common disease there. Do I still need to give my dog heartworm preventative every month in this area?
Heartworms (Dirofilaria immitis) are parasites that can infect the bloodstream of dogs and cats, as w...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on June 26, 2010 08:45
Dog owners know all about the usual hazards of summer: fleas, fireworks and shedding fur.
But this summer could bring a new, unwelcome twist.
Heartworm - carried by mosquitoes and traditionally rare in the Southwest - is turning up in higher numbers among dogs in Los Angeles County. The number of cases, while still quite small, ha...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on June 25, 2010 10:46
Here’s a news release on a subject most pet owners may not consider very often:
The American Mosquito Control Association is teaming up with the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters this summer to raise awareness that animals, like humans, are susceptible to mosquito-borne diseases.
It has been estimated that more than 1 mil...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on June 25, 2010 10:42
While the late professor and humorist Jim Boren used to boast about raising special saber-tooth ticks on his land near Tahlequah, flea and tick infestations are no joke to most area residents and their pets.
Conditions in northeastern Oklahoma – tall grass and other vegetation, shade, and plenty of moisture – provide a prime growing spot f...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on June 25, 2010 10:40
The Veterinary Teaching Hospital at North Carolina State University offers these tips to help keep your pets healthy in the hot summertime.
General heat safety tips
Limit your pet's exercise on hot and humid days to early morning and evening.
When exercising your pet, remember that asphalt becomes very hot, which can burn tender ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on June 23, 2010 18:45
Shakespeare once famously asked "What's in a name?" When it comes to pet names, the answer is puns, pop culture references, and a little bit of poop. For the third year running, Veterinary Pet Insurance Co. (VPI), the nation's oldest and largest provider of pet health insurance, is saluting those four-legged friends with names of a truly unfo...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on June 23, 2010 18:29
Source: The Washington Post
In this contest, Fido doesn't stand a chance
-- Shakespeare famously asked, "What's in a name?"
It turns out the answer is "lots of laughs," at least if you're talking about pet names.
The people at VPI Pet Insurance, a company that offers health insurance for dogs and cats, have come up w...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on June 23, 2010 14:35
By LAURIE C. WILLIAMS
According to the National Center for Health Statistics, over 30 percent of Americans over the age of 20 are obese. So I suppose it’s no surprise that according to most veterinary and pet health sources, more than 40 percent of our dogs and cats are, too. Like our fast food, we’ve supersized our pets, and thus ha...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on June 23, 2010 07:07
Get ready for a nasty time in your own backyard -- and be careful with your dog.
A particularly aggressive type of mosquito is coming out in full force this year, and it can infect dogs with a deadly parasite.
In most of Davis and Salt Lake Counties, the mosquitoes that annoy you the most do not come from the wetlands around the Great S...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on June 22, 2010 14:05
More Dogs Testing Positive In Macomb County And Pontiac
All About Animals Rescue Inc. said it is seeing a significant increase in the number of parvovirus-positive dogs this year over last year. In addition, All About Animals said it is seeing a significant increase in positive heartworm tests. Typically the clinics would see one or two ca...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on June 22, 2010 10:59
Medication use is growing every day. Men, women, and children alike are using more medication now than ever before. But medication is no longer limited to the people in a household. Medication is now being used for people's pets too.
Pet meds are an ever growing market and one that is becoming more complex.
The first thing you should...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on June 22, 2010 10:57
Pet health, particularly the pet vitamin industry, may end up being one of the few industries lucky enough to be recession-proof — or at least recession-resistant — thanks to a growing number of pet owners who have seen the benefit of providing their pets with pet vitamins. Companies that make pet vitamins, such as Pet Bounce Vitamin have...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on June 13, 2010 20:05
By DR. ROGER REDMAN
Summertime -- finally, your chance to relax and unwind! With your sunblock, sunglasses and a good book, you plan to enjoy the day at the pool! Suddenly, you remember your dog is in the yard, unsupervised ... surely he will be OK for a couple hours. Or will he?
Summer temperatures might be great for tan ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on June 13, 2010 19:58
Q. My canine is allergic to many of the topical flea and tick preventatives on the market, including Frontline, Hartz and Advantage. In place of these, I heard if you give your dog a small amount of garlic every day, it would protect him or her.
I went online to get a recipe for dog biscuits and it mentioned that garlic was n...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on June 10, 2010 13:06
Source: New York Times Blogs
By TARA PARKER-POPE
Most pet owners say that cost is a factor when deciding whether to seek medical care for a sick dog or cat. And about 40 percent worry they won’t be able to afford care when it’s needed, according to a new survey from the Associated Press and the Web site Petside...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on June 10, 2010 13:04
Source: Associated Press
When a vet told Nancy Gates that her dog Arabella had heart problems, needed surgery and it would cost $500, she had no choice but to put her pet down.
"It was pretty straightforward because I had four young children to feed. The vet said surgery was my only option. I did not want my dog to suffer," she sa...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on June 09, 2010 09:22
Everyone knows that ticks, those creepy spider cousins, have the potential for carrying some pretty serious diseases to our pets. But, what’s less well known is that these blood thirsty parasites may be arriving in your backyard after traveling by air!
By: Dr. Jim Humphries, Veterinary News Network
Robins and m...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on June 06, 2010 08:47
DEAR OLD TRAINER: You said "sit" was a gateway command in training because it is the basis of several other commands. I taught Elvis, my 3-year-old mixed breed, "sit" and then "lie down." What other commands does "sit" lead to?
-- Ray, Sacramento
A. Hmmm, could it be that Elvis is a hound dog?
I Just Can't Help Believing that It's ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on June 04, 2010 14:35
When looking to name their Hungarian hunting dog, Sarah Crowell and Kit Maxfield decided on Trigger.
“We were just brainstorming ideas over margaritas,” said Crowell, of Kansas City.
Good thing they didn’t settle on “Buddy.” Yell that name and you may get a lot of dogs running to you. Buddy again topped the list of most popular dog names of pets ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on June 04, 2010 14:05
Veterinarian Recommends Preventive Tablets
A parasite that can be deadly for dogs is on the rise in the Omaha area, veterinarians said.
They said they've seen an increase in the number of heartworm cases.
The Nebraska Humane Society is caring for a black Labrador mix named Jeremy that got heartworm thr...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on June 04, 2010 14:02
Source: Health News Digest
A survey of 1,220 U.S. pet owners revealed that nearly three-quarters of them aren't always successful in giving medication to their pets. Seven percent admitted that their inability to medicate their pets led to an extended or ongoing health issue with their pets-that's almost 5 million U.S. dogs and cats....
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on June 04, 2010 13:59
With Spring getting off to a warm start, Manitoba veterinarians are encouraging pet owners to book appointments for heartworm care.
"There is suspicion among veterinarians that last year's cool summer resulted in some pet owners missing their heartworm prevention appointments since mosquitoes weren't as noticeable as in previous years," sa...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on June 01, 2010 10:22
Excerpt from How to Use Pet Flea, Tick Products Safely
By Lisa Wade McCormick
ConsumerAffairs.com
Pet owners who are still leery of using flea and tick control products can take several steps to reduce the adverse reactions often linked to them, the doctors said.
Those steps include:
• Read and follow the product...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on May 25, 2010 18:41
The most popular name for man’s best friend in Tacoma only makes sense: Buddy. There are 178 of them licensed in Tacoma and Fircrest, according to a News Tribune anaysis of the city’s database of animal licenses
The most wonderful thing about Tigger is he’s not the only one.
There are 75 of those on record in Tacoma, making it the...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on May 25, 2010 18:38
As Guam continues to tackle the scourge of health problems related to smoking cigarettes, some organizations around the country are busy with another problem related to smoking -- the effects of secondhand smoking on pets.
Just like humans, there are no safe levels of secondhand smoke exposure for pets, according to the the America...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on May 16, 2010 19:22
By Brenda Barnette, CEO of the Seattle Humane Society
With the warm weather finally upon us, it's the perfect time for long walks and sunny naps in the grass with your pet. It's also the perfect time for pesky bugs to feast on your furry best friend and you too. Here's a list of three of the most common insects to watch out for, ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on May 16, 2010 19:15
Source: Wisconsin Rapids Tribune
Each year, millions of Americans hit the road or hop a plane in search of relaxation, adventure or just some peaceful time with distant relatives. And many of those travelers opt to bring Fido or Fluffy with them. While there are no exact figures available for the number of pets that travel with their human...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on May 14, 2010 18:54
by Helena Sung
What do veterinarians think of the names we give our pets? Do they snicker or roll their eyes when they meet a cat named Meatball Jesus or a dog named Hannah Montana? Do they find the choice of Snowball or Fluffy to be a bit boring?
The answer appears to be yes.
In the recent USA Today article, "Less-...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on May 12, 2010 19:54
Cheryl's question: How often do dogs and cats need to have their teeth brushed? In reality, this hardly ever happens for my pets. What is a minimum frequency you recommend?
Heather Oxford, DVM: Great question, Cheryl. Veterinary dentists recommend brushing pets' teeth every other day for optimal dental health. Pet toothbrushes come in di...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on May 10, 2010 14:50
Source: USA Today
Amid growing evidence that secondhand smoke is causing cancers and possibly a range of other health problems in pets, many groups are intensifying efforts to encourage people to stop smoking — if not for their own sake, then for their animals'.
Veterinarians are redoubling efforts to warn smokers of the dangers t...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on May 10, 2010 14:38
Source: WebMD
Broken Teeth, Internal Injuries, Even Death Among Risks Posed by Dog Bones
Pet owners commonly give their dogs bones as a reward, but the FDA says in a new consumer warning that it’s not good for dogs to chew on bones because they can cause serious injury or even death.
“Some people think it’s safe to give d...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on May 10, 2010 13:52
A VETERINARIAN has warned that pet owners who stop treating their dogs for heartworm in the cooler months are putting their pooches at risk.
“Many pet owners stop their pet’s heartworm preventative in the cooler months thinking that their pet is safe, but they are putting them at risk of the deadly disease,” he said.
“Mosquitos are responsi...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on May 10, 2010 13:50
Source: SunHerald.com
“Good morning, Kristi and Stephanie, I need a refill of Revolution heartworm preventive for Bowsie, please.”
“We can take care of that for you, Mrs. Stephens. Has Bowsie missed any doses of her monthly Revolution?”
“Yes, we just moved into our new house, and I lost track of time during the ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on May 10, 2010 13:12
Source: Access Hollywood
Hollywood celebrities often make headlines for the unusual names they give their children, but what about their four-legged friends? Turns out some celebrities have gotten uber-creative when it comes to their canine and feline partners-in-crime. AccessHollywood.com counts down the top ten most unu...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on May 10, 2010 13:04
Warm spring and summer months mean that cats and dogs cooped up all winter finally get a chance to stretch their legs and explore the new, green territory.
While exploring, pets may encounter poisons, plants or situations that could cause illness, injury or death.
Gary Ryder, veterinarian at the Southwest Michigan Animal Emergency Hospital, s...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on May 05, 2010 21:35
By Dr. DeAnna Douglas
Preparing for spring and summer in Savannah includes stocking up on bug spray. But biting insects are not just an annoyance, they are carriers of disease, especially the mosquito.
Our pets are at risk for disease, as well. Heartworm disease is a parasitic infection that is prevalent in our area, and mosqui...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on May 05, 2010 21:28
Source: MNN.com
If your cat has allergies, here are some expert tips for helping them survive allergy season.
While most of us reach for the medicine cabinet when the pollen count begins to rise, it’s a little hard to relieve allergy symptoms when you lack opposable thumbs.
So what's an itchy cat to do?
I...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on May 05, 2010 15:05
An ounce of prevention may be worth a pound of cure, but when it comes to your pet’s health, practicing good dental hygiene may make a significant difference.
In fact, an animal’s teeth may be more important to its overall health than most pet owners realize, says Dr. J.R. “Bert” Dodd, a board certified veterinary dentist at Texas A&...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on May 05, 2010 15:03
Source: Stltoday.com
Squashing heartworm disease has been quite the challenge. For starters, a surprising number of dog owners (over half, according to one survey) and far more than half of cat owners fail to purchase a heartworm preventative in the first place. Of those who do, a surprising number forget to use it. That's all bad en...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on May 03, 2010 21:21
The British are known as a nation of animal lovers, and almost one in two households owns a pet. Experts share the remarkable health benefits of pet ownership, concluding that the relationship benefits are definitely reciprocal, writes Rebecca Seales
THE sun has appeared and, suddenly, taking the dog out doesn’t seem like such a chore.
Bu...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on May 03, 2010 21:13
Last week we began a discussion of possible problems with so-called "spot on" flea and tick preventatives and treatments.
We noted that the country's Environmental Protection Agency for more than two years has been investigating a multitude of complaints that dogs and cats have suffered adverse reactions, including skin irritation at...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on May 03, 2010 20:44
BY MARTY RONEY
The spread of canine influenza could mean boarding Fido while the family goes on vacation this summer will cost a little more.
A growing number of veterinary practices in the tri-county area are requiring canine flu vaccinations for dogs before they are boarded or receive grooming services. The inoculations co...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on May 01, 2010 19:12
Q. When I went to my veterinarian to pick up flea and tick preventives for the summer, she told me I should be using them all year. Do I really need to do this?
Many of us know that fleas and ticks are abundant in the environment during the warm weather. But here are some facts from the Companion Animal Parasite Council that challe...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on April 27, 2010 20:33
by Daphne Sashin
April showers bring flowers for sniffing, long walks in the neighborhood and afternoon naps on the lawns. But before you let your pet leap into spring, make sure you're keeping your dogs and cats safe from these seasonal health hazards:
1. Watch Out for Poisonous Flowers
Tulip, hyacinth and daffodil bu...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on April 26, 2010 21:15
By: Cathy Theisen DVM
Spring is the time of year when we inhale deeply and appreciate the beauty of new growth and abundance at the end of another long winter.
It's also the time of year when, SWAT!, mosquitoes start hatching and buzzing around, some of them carrying the deadly disease heartworm. Michigan is a heartworm...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on April 26, 2010 21:06
by KATHLEEN BAYDALA
Delilah was a happy, healthy 7 1/2-year-old Chesapeake Bay retriever.
She received annual checkups at her veterinarian's office and took a chewable heartworm tablet once a month. Still, last spring, she tested positive for the deadly parasite.
"I was just devastated," said Delilah's owner, Emily P...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on April 26, 2010 21:03
By Sue Novak
Spring weather has caused many of us to turn our attention to our yards — or what’s left of them after winter, and in my case, lack of attention last fall.
Jack and Bailey have beaten a path that may never come back again around the circumference of my yard, and I don’t even want to talk about the flower garden part —...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on April 20, 2010 20:32
Summer is such a great time. Swimming, barbecues, baseball and family fun. It’s also time to make sure your dog has all the necessary preventatives to enjoy the sun and warm weather.
Those nasty fleas and ticks can be most annoying and are easily prevented with a topical application of preventative, special chewable tablets or medi...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on April 20, 2010 20:30
By Jill Bowen
Q I treat my dog for heartworm, but not my cats as I was told that cats were immune to heartworm. Is this true? If not, how do they get these worms? Can they catch them from the dog?
A Many people think that heartworms are a problem only for dogs, but heartworms can cause a serious disease in cats, ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on April 20, 2010 19:56
Source: TheStarPress.com
By Roger Smith, DVM
Q: I know about fleas, but what other types of bugs do I have to worry about on my outside pets?
A: Your pets might be enjoying the warm weather of spring. Unfortunately, it also brings an increased risk of parasites, both internal and external. Some of the peskiest pet...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on April 18, 2010 18:48
For many years, pet owners have given omega-3 fatty acids to their dogs and cats to change a dull, dry coat into a more glossy one.
A shiny coat and healthy skin on the outside can be indicators of a healthy pet on the inside. Conversely, skin problems may indicate a need for dietary changes or supplementation.
Always chec...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on April 18, 2010 18:18
A case of heartworm disease now is on record in Regina, and the city's veterinarians are recommending vigilance.
Dr. Donald Powers of the Lakewood Animal Hospital, speaking on behalf of a group of veterinarians Friday, explained there was a positive case of heartworm disease in a dog in Regina this past winter. The dog died as a re...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on April 15, 2010 20:12
Some owners neglect to give the medication
Experts stop short of calling it an epidemic, but the newly released results of a 2007 U.S.-wide survey indicate that the number of heartworm cases is rising. As a result, it's also likely that more pets are dying of the disease. The tragedy is, heartworm disease in dogs, cats and ferrets is tot...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on April 14, 2010 21:46
By MARTY BECKER
Fleas, ticks and mosquitoes can make our pets itch and scratch. But did you know that each one of these pests can transmit serious diseases to your pets - and to you as well?
In a pet with flea allergy dermatitis (FAD), even one flea bite can cause a cascading reaction of itching, irritation and secondary b...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on April 14, 2010 21:43
BY DR. PATTY KHULY
Q: I use monthly flea and tick medication on my dogs and cats, but I've read that these chemicals are causing more health problems in pets than ever before. Can you help us concerned pet owners with this?
A: It's that time of year again, so I guess this subject is worthy of yet another reprisal...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on April 14, 2010 21:32
We always try to keep things safe for our children and try to stay informed on what things around our house would be harmful for the little ones, We put locks on kitchen and bathroom cabinets to keep curious little hands out of trouble
What about your pet. Did you know that there are some foods and other household i...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on April 09, 2010 13:21
iPhone creators Apple claim they have an application for just about everything. Today we take a look at some of the best pet applications out there and which are simply the best.
Pet First Aid
At the top of the list is one of the most useful pet applications we’ve encountered; Pet First Aid offers quick and simple health advice for a ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on April 09, 2010 13:19
For the first time, the most popular name for a female dog is also the most popular name for a new baby girl. Bella was the number one name for female dogs in 2009, according to Veterinary Pet Insurance Co., in Brea, Calif., which tracks its clients' pet names. Last year, Bella — short for Isabella or Isabel — was also the most popular name for bab...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on April 09, 2010 13:16
Canine heartworm (cHW) disease is now recognised as potential cause of serious disease in cats and other felids, especially in endemic areas. In March 2009, a 23-years-old male African leopard (Panthera pardus pardus) housed in a zoological park located in the Province of Padova (Veneto Region), a cHW endemic area of the north-eastern Italy, ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on April 05, 2010 19:39
Source: The Associated Press
Veterinarians say they're seeing sicker pets that require more expensive care for illnesses that routine visits would have caught early.
The Paducah Sun reported the uptick appears to be related to the recession and pet owners trying to reduce expenses.
Dr. LaNita Flanary says more of ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on April 02, 2010 08:39
Source: AssociatedContent.com
By Eve Lichtgarn
When it comes to administering flea prevention medication to your pet, the key is consistency. Many people think flea repellant only needs to be applied during the hot weather summer months, when parasites are most active. But that is only one quarter of an annual responsibility. If you ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on April 01, 2010 20:07
By Steve Dale
TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES
Q: I'm a guide dog user and currently have a 70-pound Golden Retriever. I've heard that I shouldn't use flea products. What do you think? -- D.H., Quincy, IL
Q: The EPA no longer wants us to use flea and heartworm products, right? Why is that? What do you suggest? -- S.G., Orlando, FL....
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on April 01, 2010 20:03
Source: ZooToo.com
Warm spring weather is the perfect time to enjoy the great outdoors with your pet. But the fun has a downside — the irritating little pests known as fleas and ticks. To help manage the problem, countless owners treat their dogs and cats with products to keep both their pets and homes pest-free.
But recently, man...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on March 31, 2010 21:15
by Aaron Kroh
Is your pet’s health important to you? Did you know that you can improve your pet’s health by making sure they get enough Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids in their diet? Research indicates that there are numerous benefits to improving your pet’s health; from arthritis to behavior problems to dry skin and so much m...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on March 31, 2010 21:12
Source: News 10 Now
Flea and tick season is right around the corner. Now is the time to start preventative measures.
“There certainly are many advantages to protecting your pet against fleas and ticks. The primary reason is your pet’s comfort, especially if your pet has an allergy toward fleas," veterinarian Dr. Andrea Lee said. "...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on March 31, 2010 20:43
The American Heartworm Society (AHS) has released new canine heartworm guidelines for 2010. These guidelines are considered the official veterinary industry perspective for epidemiology, diagnosis and treatment of the disease and include some notable differences from previous versions.
It is estimated that currently more tha...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on March 28, 2010 15:56
Source: The Old Trainer
Dear Old Trainer: I have not had a dog for 20 years but just got a beautiful little Maltese named Lori that has changed my life. A friend told me there is now a product that kills flees and ticks on dogs. What is the product and does it pose any health risks?
Happy, Carmel, California
A: There are ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on March 25, 2010 18:52
By Trent Hamm
My wife and I are considering getting a puppy for our son, who really seems to love small dogs and often asks us whether we’ll ever have one. While we haven’t made up our minds yet on this decision, I did take a few moments to ask a few of my pet-owning friends if they had any advice about how to reduce the costs of acquir...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on March 24, 2010 20:18
The mild winter has one local vet recommending clients start their flea and tick prevention early.
Doctor Mark Hanks with Kindred Spirits Veterinary Services in Orrington says he usually doesn't expect to see ticks until mid-April but has already seen some in the animals he treats.
Hanks says most of his clients are being pro-active and...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on March 23, 2010 19:53
Prep your pet for spring!
Now that spring has officially sprung, all of us — including our pets — are itching to get outside and PLAY! However, in addition to the promise of fun-in-the-sun activities, warmer weather, blooming plants and hatching "wildlife" can also create potential hazards for our furry friends.
Here are a few things to keep in m...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on March 22, 2010 20:50
Flea and tick populations are rising in the wake of the mildest winter in recent memory.
Fleas love Nanaimo's mild coastal climate as much as humans and without a good frost in winter to kill the thousands of eggs a female can lay each day, the blood-suckers can multiply fast.
With almost no snowfall whatsoever and mild temperat...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on March 21, 2010 18:25
By Rene Knapp
There are millions of dogs in the United States that do not get heartworm prevention, or get it sporadically. Although there is treatment for heartworm, it is extremely expensive and depending on the severity when it is treated, the dog could die.
It is much easier to prevent the disease than to try to treat it...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on March 21, 2010 18:23
Q: How are heartworm infections treated?
A: Dogs that acquire heartworms can be treated successfully as long as the infection is detected before major damage is done to the heart. After confirming a positive test result, your veterinarian will use a blood filtration test to detect the presence or absence of circulating larval worms, called m...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on March 21, 2010 18:21
Before applying tick or flea treatments to their dogs or cats, pet owners should weigh the animal rather than count the pests to determine the proper dosage.
The advice comes from a Redding veterinarian in response to a flood of calls by pet owners with questions about how to best treat their pets for fleas and ticks without making...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on March 21, 2010 17:19
Like any good mom, Pam Powell gives a pig ear to Abby when she’s been a good girl.
But that’s just the beginning of this supermom’s spending on her 11-year-old Australian shepherd.
There is the vitamin-enriched premium dog food. There are haircuts and nail jobs. There is the $70-a-month anti-inflammatory medication. And most recen...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on March 15, 2010 19:08
Pet expert Lisa Lasack says one of the most neglected pet health issues is dental care. And she says if you start when your dog is a puppy, you can brush their teeth without much problem.
She says it's important to brush a dog's teeth at least twice a week. And don't use human toothpaste. You can get tasty, poultry (an...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on March 15, 2010 09:20
In times of disaster, sometimes only a moment's notice is given to evacuate and get to safety.
Preparation for those times is crucial to ensure residents get out with what they need. But oftentimes, the needs of their furry friends aren't taken into consideration until it's time to evacuate.
In an effort to make sure peopl...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on March 13, 2010 17:32
Behaviors in your dog or cat may be trying to tell you something
Attention, pet owners: Dogs aren't human, and cats aren't like dogs.
Long-held beliefs influence how we interact with our pets, but, in some cases, those interactions can sabotage better pet behavior.
Owners know pet behavior can be perplexing enough...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on March 12, 2010 07:40
Many people do not realize that dogs and cats can have trouble with their teeth and suffer from gum disease just like humans - but with potentially more serious consequences.
Dr. Bryan McGoldrick says from 75 to 85 percent of dogs and cats can eventually suffer from some form of periodontal dis...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on March 11, 2010 18:36
Have a non-emergency question about your pet's health? Dr. Heather Oxford of L.A. veterinary hospital California Animal Rehabilitation (CARE) is here to help! In this installment of Ask a Vet, Dr. Oxford offers some advice to reader Allie about identifying and treating depression in dogs and cats:
A...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on March 11, 2010 15:44
Merck and Sanofi-Aventis announced today they would combine, and jointly own, their animal pharmaceutical businesses.
The combined business will become the largest in veterinary medicines, with 29 percent market share.
Rival Pfizer has about a 20 percent share of the $19 billion-per-year market.
Sanofi’s Merial unit opera...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on March 11, 2010 14:27
Source: Veterinary Practice News
The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) has revealed its most recent membership data, indicating a number of trends in veterinary medicine and pet care.
For example, new data shows that veterinarians are increasingly seeking board certification as specialists, a trend that is in ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on January 21, 2010 14:33
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on January 21, 2010 14:28
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 ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on January 19, 2010 11:27
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on December 17, 2009 15:45
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on December 15, 2009 15:56
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, ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on December 10, 2009 13:02
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on December 10, 2009 13:02
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on December 10, 2009 12:48
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)
...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on December 09, 2009 14:53
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 ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on December 09, 2009 14:52
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on December 08, 2009 11:31
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on December 08, 2009 11:19
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 ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on December 07, 2009 15:20
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on December 07, 2009 14:58
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....
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on December 07, 2009 14:39
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on December 02, 2009 13:07
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on December 02, 2009 10:41
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.
...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on December 02, 2009 10:40
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on December 01, 2009 13:59
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on December 01, 2009 13:57
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on November 19, 2009 14:37
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on November 18, 2009 14:54
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on November 16, 2009 14:50
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 ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on November 13, 2009 15:17
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on November 12, 2009 14:47
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....
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on November 12, 2009 11:51
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]...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on November 05, 2009 11:40
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on November 05, 2009 11:37
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on November 05, 2009 11:33
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 ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on November 05, 2009 11:25
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on November 04, 2009 15:32
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on October 30, 2009 18:26
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on October 27, 2009 14:01
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 ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on October 27, 2009 10:59
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on October 27, 2009 10:46
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 ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on October 22, 2009 15:02
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on October 22, 2009 14:59
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on October 19, 2009 15:05
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on October 19, 2009 14:58
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on October 19, 2009 14:54
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on October 14, 2009 13:23
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on October 14, 2009 12:06
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 ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on October 14, 2009 12:02
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on October 14, 2009 11:24
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on October 14, 2009 11:22
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on October 13, 2009 12:18
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on October 13, 2009 12:16
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on October 09, 2009 11:21
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on October 09, 2009 11:19
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on October 08, 2009 10:54
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on October 08, 2009 10:43
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on October 08, 2009 10:39
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on October 06, 2009 11:25
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on October 05, 2009 13:58
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on October 01, 2009 10:55
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on October 01, 2009 10:52
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on September 30, 2009 11:06
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 ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on September 30, 2009 11:04
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on September 28, 2009 13:49
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on September 28, 2009 12:11
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on September 28, 2009 11:44
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: ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on September 28, 2009 10:46
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on September 28, 2009 10:34
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on September 28, 2009 10:27
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on September 11, 2009 10:46
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on September 11, 2009 10:42
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on September 11, 2009 07:34
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on September 07, 2009 20:20
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on September 07, 2009 20:16
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on August 31, 2009 18:42
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on August 29, 2009 19:37
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 ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on August 29, 2009 12:49
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on August 29, 2009 12:43
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on August 26, 2009 12:38
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on August 26, 2009 12:33
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on August 26, 2009 10:38
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on August 26, 2009 08:23
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on August 26, 2009 08:21
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on August 20, 2009 19:11
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 ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on August 20, 2009 19:07
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on August 19, 2009 20:06
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on August 19, 2009 20:03
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on August 19, 2009 19:54
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on August 18, 2009 10:45
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on August 18, 2009 10:42
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on August 17, 2009 20:27
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on August 17, 2009 19:59
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 ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on August 17, 2009 19:39
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on August 13, 2009 18:56
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on August 13, 2009 14:38
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on August 13, 2009 14:36
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on August 13, 2009 13:42
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on August 12, 2009 11:29
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on August 11, 2009 13:51
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 23, 2009 21:32
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 17, 2009 14:16
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 17, 2009 14:15
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 17, 2009 13:27
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 17, 2009 12:15
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 17, 2009 12:12
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....
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 16, 2009 11:54
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....
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 16, 2009 10:57
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 14, 2009 15:00
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 14, 2009 08:15
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 14, 2009 08:12
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 13, 2009 15:03
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 11, 2009 18:08
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 ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 10, 2009 18:18
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 10, 2009 18:14
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 10, 2009 18:09
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. ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 10, 2009 18:01
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 10, 2009 05:58
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 ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 10, 2009 05:56
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 09, 2009 15:10
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 08, 2009 20:44
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 07, 2009 20:06
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.
...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 06, 2009 21:10
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 06, 2009 11:56
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 ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 06, 2009 11:53
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 05, 2009 20:54
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 05, 2009 07:41
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 05, 2009 07:39
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 04, 2009 13:45
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 03, 2009 12:17
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 03, 2009 06:50
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 03, 2009 06:49
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 02, 2009 20:29
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 02, 2009 20:26
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 ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on July 02, 2009 17:50
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on June 30, 2009 10:45
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. ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on June 30, 2009 10:34
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on June 29, 2009 18:42
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on June 29, 2009 15:52
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 ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on June 29, 2009 14:50
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on June 25, 2009 13:42
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on June 25, 2009 13:40
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on June 23, 2009 14:41
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on June 23, 2009 14:37
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on June 23, 2009 14:34
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on June 23, 2009 14:20
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on June 22, 2009 10:41
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 ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on June 22, 2009 09:34
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....
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on June 21, 2009 07:42
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. ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on June 21, 2009 07:39
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 ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on June 18, 2009 13:03
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...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |
Permalink
Posted on June 18, 2009 12:59
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 ...
Read the rest of this article...
Actions:
E-mail |