Newborn kittens and puppies receive complete nutrition from their mothers’ milk for the first four weeks of life. As they gradually begin to eat on their own, they will be fully weaned after a few more weeks. During the first weeks of life, body weight may double or triple, and this rapid growth will continue—although at a gradually decreasing rate—until maturity. Large amounts of energy and nutrients are required in balanced quantities to support this spectacular growth.
Here are some tips for feeding puppies and kittens:
1. Kittens are best fed mom's milk; it's 100-percent perfect for their needs. However, if the mother is ill or doesn’t produce enough milk, or if the kittens are found as orphans, it is necessary to feed them a commercial milk replacer.
2. Generally, orphaned or hand-fed kittens can be offered moistened kitten food at about three weeks of age. Use a commercial milk replacer to moisten the food, and gradually reduce the amount of milk replacer you use, until the kittens are eating dry kitten food at about five or six weeks of age.
3. At first, curious kittens will probably want to play with their food rather than eat it, but the youngsters will soon catch on as they watch mom eat. By the time kittens are five to six weeks old, they should be nibbling on dry food consistently. This process of gradually introducing kitten food is important in training the cats to eat when they are weaned.
4. After weaning, kittens can be fed free-choice—dry or nutrient-dense kitten-formula canned food. Make sure fresh water is available at all times.
5. Most mama cats will suckle their kittens until about eight weeks of age. By this time, 80- to 90-percent of the kitten's total nutrient intake should be from kitten food. Kittens need large amounts of energy—about two to three times that of an adult cat. Kittens also need about 30 percent of their total energy from protein. Make sure the food you offer is specifically formulated for kittens; your pet will need to eat kitten-formula food until she reaches maturity, at about one year.
6. Canines generally begin eating puppy food at about three or four weeks, and are completely weaned by seven or eight weeks. They require up to twice the energy intake of adults and, depending on the breed, will need to have 25- to 30-percent protein.
7. As with kittens, puppies should have puppy food available prior to weaning. These meals should begin when the pups are three to four weeks old; start with small quantities. Puppies often play in their food when it is first introduced, but they will quickly learn what to do with it! By the time the pups are ready to wean at six to eight weeks old, they should be eating their dry food consistently.
8. Small breeds of dogs reach mature body weight in nine to twelve months, while giant breeds may not be mature until they reach their second birthday.
9. Just who are we calling SMALL? Small-breed dogs are 20 pounds or less. As pups, they can often be fed free-choice. When food is readily available, most small-breed dogs will develop good eating habits and not become overweight. If you have other pets, you should probably feed your small-breed dog by the portion control method.
10. Most medium-breed puppies (adult size between 20 and 50 pounds) and all large or giant breed pups (more than 50 pounds as adults) are best fed with the portion control method.
BONUS! Special Concerns about Feeding Large- and Giant-Breed Puppies
If puppies are allowed to overeat, they may consume too many calories and too much calcium, grow too rapidly and develop bone growth problems. In breeds that are prone to these diseases, such as many large and giant breeds, overfeeding can lead to an increased frequency of hypertrophic osteodystrophy (HOD), osteochondrosis (OCD) and hip dysplasia.
Clinical signs often seen with bone growth disease include bowing of the front legs. Sometimes, these signs are misdiagnosed as calcium deficiency (also known as rickets). Radiographs are crucial for an accurate diagnosis. Adding more calcium to the diets of dogs with HOD, OCD or hip dysplasia will actually worsen the condition—and may result in permanent damage.
It is important to aim for a slower rate of growth with large and giant breed puppies. Do not overfeed, or try to push the growth rate too fast. Controlled feeding of a balanced diet specifically made for large- and giant-breed puppies facilitates optimal skeletal development. Remember, the adult size of a dog is determined genetically—not by how fast the animal grows.
Saturday, December 30, 2006
Friday, December 29, 2006
Liquid Potpourri Packs A Painful Punch
Want a fresh and fragrant home? Before setting out that delicious-smelling potpourri simmer pot, please take heed. Many liquid potpourris contain essential oils and detergents that could prove hazardous to your furry companions, based on an analysis of calls to the ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control Center.
According to the ASPCA’s Dr. Steven Hansen, veterinary toxicologist and senior vice president, the essential oils found in many of these products can cause irritation of the skin, gastrointestinal tract and mucous membranes. More significant injuries are typically a result of thermal burns or exposure to a specific type of detergent. Says Hansen, “A class of detergents known as cationics is usually responsible for severe ulceration of the membranes of the mouth, throat and gastrointestinal tract. Where there is contact with the skin, redness, swelling and extremely painful lesions can appear.” Symptoms of these exposures include drooling, vomiting, depression, metabolic disturbances and difficulty breathing from fluid on the lungs.
Although 10 percent of the liquid potpourri poisoning cases managed by the ASPCA since 2001 have included life-threatening effects, most animals make a full recovery if treated promptly. “However, it is important to note that treatment can be very extensive and may involve a lengthy hospitalization,” says Hansen.
And feline caretakers, please take note—cats are more likely to be at risk than dogs. “This is most likely because cats have greater access to the simmer pots, which are usually kept on countertops or other high-level surfaces,” explains Hansen. Most exposures occur when cats lap up heated liquid from the simmer pot, or when liquid spills on their fur from a leaky container.
To avoid exposing your pet to the dangers of liquid potpourri, ASPCA experts offer the following tips:
- Place potpourri simmer pots and unused liquid in rooms where pets cannot gain access.
- Consider using relatively safer alternatives, such as plug-in or solid air fresheners. (Do take care to use these in out-of-reach locations as well.)
- If you suspect your pet has been exposed to liquid potpourri, please call your veterinarian or the APCC's emergency hotline at (888) 426-4435 for round-the-clock telephone assistance.
According to the ASPCA’s Dr. Steven Hansen, veterinary toxicologist and senior vice president, the essential oils found in many of these products can cause irritation of the skin, gastrointestinal tract and mucous membranes. More significant injuries are typically a result of thermal burns or exposure to a specific type of detergent. Says Hansen, “A class of detergents known as cationics is usually responsible for severe ulceration of the membranes of the mouth, throat and gastrointestinal tract. Where there is contact with the skin, redness, swelling and extremely painful lesions can appear.” Symptoms of these exposures include drooling, vomiting, depression, metabolic disturbances and difficulty breathing from fluid on the lungs.
Although 10 percent of the liquid potpourri poisoning cases managed by the ASPCA since 2001 have included life-threatening effects, most animals make a full recovery if treated promptly. “However, it is important to note that treatment can be very extensive and may involve a lengthy hospitalization,” says Hansen.
And feline caretakers, please take note—cats are more likely to be at risk than dogs. “This is most likely because cats have greater access to the simmer pots, which are usually kept on countertops or other high-level surfaces,” explains Hansen. Most exposures occur when cats lap up heated liquid from the simmer pot, or when liquid spills on their fur from a leaky container.
To avoid exposing your pet to the dangers of liquid potpourri, ASPCA experts offer the following tips:
- Place potpourri simmer pots and unused liquid in rooms where pets cannot gain access.
- Consider using relatively safer alternatives, such as plug-in or solid air fresheners. (Do take care to use these in out-of-reach locations as well.)
- If you suspect your pet has been exposed to liquid potpourri, please call your veterinarian or the APCC's emergency hotline at (888) 426-4435 for round-the-clock telephone assistance.
Thursday, December 28, 2006
New Dog In The Home
Today's domestic dog must be part of a stable family and feel safe. Most behavioral problems occur when the dog is confused about how to act or behave in different situations such as in your home or out on a walk.
It is recommended that you keep your dog confined (in a crate or in a room) no matter his age for at least the first month in your home. This will allow him to settle in more comfortably and adapt to your lifestyle. At the same time, confinement or crate training will reduce such misbehaviors as chewing and separation anxiety.
Here are a few general rules to help prevent misbehaviors when you bring your dog home:
HOUSEBREAKING - Almost all dogs are naturally clean animals, meaning that the dog will not eliminate where he sleeps. If you keep your dog in a cage or room that is too large, he will eliminate in one corner and sleep in another. With this in mind, keeping your dog in a confinement area large enough to turn around and lie down in, he will be motivated to hold it.
ELIMINATING FREQUENCY - The general rule for elimination is the dog's age plus one. (For example - the dog is 3 months old. This means that he can technically hold it for 4 hours.) The dog will need to eliminate 15 to 20 minutes after eating, as soon as he wakes up and during or after playing. Most dogs can hold it for up to 10 hours after the age of 1.
FEEDING - A dog should only be fed twice a day, morning and evening. Feeding your dog table food could give him health problems, such as diarrhea, as well as behavioral problems, such as begging for food at the table.
CREATING THE LEADER ROLE IN YOUR HOUSE - To become the Alpha leader in your house, you must practice some basic commands with your dog:
1. You must always enter the house before your dog.
2. You must always eat before your dog.
3. You must always sleep at a higher level than your dog.
GAMES - Play biting or puppy nipping should not be allowed or encouraged. This allows the biting to become harder and more painful as the dog gets older. Fetch is a highly recommended game. Keep two balls on you. Throw one of the balls. When the dog comes back with the first ball, show him the second ball so he will drop the first ball. When the first ball is dropped, you may throw the second ball. Repeat as often as you like or until the dog begins to show signs of boredom. When the game is played this way, the game will not turn into a game of tug of war, therefore creating less of a chance of developing possible behavioral problems in the future.
DISCIPLINE - Disciplining your dog 2 seconds after the misbehavior is too late. You must catch him in the act. You must never hit the dog. Hitting the dog may make him more aggressive toward strangers or other members of your family.
CHEWING - The dog should have many different bones and toys to chew on. If you see your dog chewing on an inappropriate item, simply say "No" and direct his attention to an appropriate toy or bone.
It is recommended that you keep your dog confined (in a crate or in a room) no matter his age for at least the first month in your home. This will allow him to settle in more comfortably and adapt to your lifestyle. At the same time, confinement or crate training will reduce such misbehaviors as chewing and separation anxiety.
Here are a few general rules to help prevent misbehaviors when you bring your dog home:
HOUSEBREAKING - Almost all dogs are naturally clean animals, meaning that the dog will not eliminate where he sleeps. If you keep your dog in a cage or room that is too large, he will eliminate in one corner and sleep in another. With this in mind, keeping your dog in a confinement area large enough to turn around and lie down in, he will be motivated to hold it.
ELIMINATING FREQUENCY - The general rule for elimination is the dog's age plus one. (For example - the dog is 3 months old. This means that he can technically hold it for 4 hours.) The dog will need to eliminate 15 to 20 minutes after eating, as soon as he wakes up and during or after playing. Most dogs can hold it for up to 10 hours after the age of 1.
FEEDING - A dog should only be fed twice a day, morning and evening. Feeding your dog table food could give him health problems, such as diarrhea, as well as behavioral problems, such as begging for food at the table.
CREATING THE LEADER ROLE IN YOUR HOUSE - To become the Alpha leader in your house, you must practice some basic commands with your dog:
1. You must always enter the house before your dog.
2. You must always eat before your dog.
3. You must always sleep at a higher level than your dog.
GAMES - Play biting or puppy nipping should not be allowed or encouraged. This allows the biting to become harder and more painful as the dog gets older. Fetch is a highly recommended game. Keep two balls on you. Throw one of the balls. When the dog comes back with the first ball, show him the second ball so he will drop the first ball. When the first ball is dropped, you may throw the second ball. Repeat as often as you like or until the dog begins to show signs of boredom. When the game is played this way, the game will not turn into a game of tug of war, therefore creating less of a chance of developing possible behavioral problems in the future.
DISCIPLINE - Disciplining your dog 2 seconds after the misbehavior is too late. You must catch him in the act. You must never hit the dog. Hitting the dog may make him more aggressive toward strangers or other members of your family.
CHEWING - The dog should have many different bones and toys to chew on. If you see your dog chewing on an inappropriate item, simply say "No" and direct his attention to an appropriate toy or bone.
Monday, December 18, 2006
Pets As Presents
The following guidlines are provided by the ASPCA to use when choosing pets for your children:
Under 3 - Focus on introducing Baby to your current pets. It's not appropriate to bring in a new pet at this point.
3 to 5 - Guinea pigs are a good choice, as they like to be held, seldom bite and will whistle when excited or happy. Your child can help fill the water bottle or food dish.
5 to 10 - Choose shelf pets such as mice, rats or fish. Kids can help clean cages with adult help, though you should always check to ensure that pets have food and water and cages are secured.
10 to 13 - Your child is now ready for the responsibility of a dog, cat or rabbit. Your child can help feed the pet, walk the dog, clean the rabbit cage and clean the cat litter, but you should always check to be sure pets have everything they need. Participation in dog training classes is an excellent learning opportunity for children.
14 to 17 - You child may have more activities competing for his or her time and less time to spend with a pet. Certain species of birds or aquariums are a good choice. Remember, you will have the pet once they leave home to go to college.
Friday, December 01, 2006
Teaching Your Dog To Retrieve
Many dog trainers and breeders believe the healthiest and most beneficial exercise for a dog is retrieving. Not only that, but both dogs and their owners appear to greatly enjoy "playing fetch." The most common image of this mutally pleasurable game is the dog furiously and happily racing after a thrown stick, rubber ball or frisbee.
Generally, there are three methods of training a dog to retrieve. One, which is more widely used and accepted by pet owners is through general playing. The second method is called the "forcing method" and the third is a combination of these two. Dog owners will have to judge for themselves which method works best for their individual dog.
Also remember that retrieval training should not be the first step of dog training. Long before you attempt this kind of discipline, you should have already housebroken your dog and taught him to "sit," "come," "stay" and the other basics. If these have not been mastered at an early stage, then trying to teach the animal to retrieve will only tend to frustrate you and confuse the dog.
Generally, there are three methods of training a dog to retrieve. One, which is more widely used and accepted by pet owners is through general playing. The second method is called the "forcing method" and the third is a combination of these two. Dog owners will have to judge for themselves which method works best for their individual dog.
Also remember that retrieval training should not be the first step of dog training. Long before you attempt this kind of discipline, you should have already housebroken your dog and taught him to "sit," "come," "stay" and the other basics. If these have not been mastered at an early stage, then trying to teach the animal to retrieve will only tend to frustrate you and confuse the dog.
Sunday, November 26, 2006
Pet Exercises
Is Fido looking flabby? Is there a Garfield in your life?
Here are some exercises you can do with your pet. Just make sure he or she gets plenty of water.
1. Take your dog on two brisk 20-minute walks a day. Build up endurance gradually.
2. Play chase with your dog around the house once a day.
3. Keep sneakers and a spare leash in the car.
4. Use a tennis racket to bounce a ball around with your dog for five minutes outside.
5. Put cat treats at top and bottom of stairs.
6. Tie your cat's toy mouse to a shoelace and drag it as you run up and down the hallway.
Here are some exercises you can do with your pet. Just make sure he or she gets plenty of water.
1. Take your dog on two brisk 20-minute walks a day. Build up endurance gradually.
2. Play chase with your dog around the house once a day.
3. Keep sneakers and a spare leash in the car.
4. Use a tennis racket to bounce a ball around with your dog for five minutes outside.
5. Put cat treats at top and bottom of stairs.
6. Tie your cat's toy mouse to a shoelace and drag it as you run up and down the hallway.
German Chowita Takes Best In Class
I am pleased to announce that my son's puppy, Ace, has graduated from Puppy 1st Grade with Honors. Ace learned all of the obdience skills required in the class. After all the puppies in the class ran through their skills, the puppies got to play a modified version of musical chairs.
The first puppy that sat or laid down on command advanced to the next round. Ace (my grandson) won both of these games.
Ace is a designer dog. He is part German Shepard, Chow and Akita, which makes him a German Chowita. Ace is 8 months old and smarter than most puppies his age.
We are very proud of him. We will be picking out a college for Ace to attend just as soon as he learns how to drive.
Miss Sadie
Miss Sadie’s time with us was much too short. She was with us from March 2003 to July 2006. She spent her time with her Mom and Dad, Don and Jymme Snider, helping them run their motel, Snider’s Rustic Inn, in Thayne, Wyoming. Sadie was a chocolate Labrador with the most adorable personality. She had a heart that was as big as she was and made of pure gold. Sadie was born with severe elbow and hip dysplasia. Because her legs never grew to their full height and were bowed, some people thought she was a mix between a Labrador and a Pit Bull so her sister gave her the Designer Dog name of “Bullador.” Sadie became famous as the motel guest greeter. She loved everybody and everybody loved her, she never met a stranger and everybody was her friend. Sadie hardly ever barked and had the best manners. She was the perfect motel dog. She would welcome each guest as they checked in. Her favorite sleeping position was on her back in her blue recliner. Even though Sadie, the famous “Bullador”, had a tough time walking during her life here, she’s running with the big dogs now.
World's Wealthiest Pets
Recently, a list of the world's wealthiest pets hit the media and caused a stir bigger than a coronation. Think your pet has it made? Check out these lucky animals:
Gunther IV, an Alsatian (that's a German Shepherd in the United States!) said to be worth $320 million. Unconfirmed reports state that this incredible sum of money was left to Gunther's canine father by Countess Karlotta Libenstein when she passed away in 1992.
Kalu, a chimpanzee, became the main beneficiary of a trust amounting to some $95 million "big bananas." Owner Patricia O'Neill replaced her husband, Australian Olympic swimmer Frank O'Neill - the former beneficiary - with Kalu while Frank was at the 2000 Olympics in Sydney.
Toby Rimes, a dog of unknown breeding, lapped up approximately $80 million when his owner, Ella Wendel, suddenly passed away. Word is that Toby, a New York City native, has become an instant celebrity around his Central Park stomping grounds.
Gunther IV, an Alsatian (that's a German Shepherd in the United States!) said to be worth $320 million. Unconfirmed reports state that this incredible sum of money was left to Gunther's canine father by Countess Karlotta Libenstein when she passed away in 1992.
Kalu, a chimpanzee, became the main beneficiary of a trust amounting to some $95 million "big bananas." Owner Patricia O'Neill replaced her husband, Australian Olympic swimmer Frank O'Neill - the former beneficiary - with Kalu while Frank was at the 2000 Olympics in Sydney.
Toby Rimes, a dog of unknown breeding, lapped up approximately $80 million when his owner, Ella Wendel, suddenly passed away. Word is that Toby, a New York City native, has become an instant celebrity around his Central Park stomping grounds.
Thursday, November 23, 2006
Teaching A Dog A New Behavior
When first teaching a dog a new behavior it is important to let him know when he has done the right thing and when he has done the wrong thing. Offering your dog their favorite treat or toy when they do the right thing will teach them to repeat that behavior when asked.
It is also important to let them know when they have done the wrong thing. Saying the word "No" and guiding them into the proper behavior each time can correct the wrong behavior. By saying "No" and guiding your dog instead of physically correcting the dog, will teach them to follow the correct behavior every time they hear the word "No".
This type of training is positive reinforcement and works very well.
It is also important to let them know when they have done the wrong thing. Saying the word "No" and guiding them into the proper behavior each time can correct the wrong behavior. By saying "No" and guiding your dog instead of physically correcting the dog, will teach them to follow the correct behavior every time they hear the word "No".
This type of training is positive reinforcement and works very well.
Sunday, November 19, 2006
Did You Hear That?
Both cats and dogs can hear things we cannot, which is one reason dogs make such terrific home alarm systems. Cats can hear sounds several times higher than we can, which is useful when they hunt. If your cat leaps up, hisses and scoots out of the room - seemingly unprovoked - he might have been startled by something you couldn't hear.
This suggests that the inexplicable behaviors we may observe in our pets shouldn't be dismissed as simply nutty. The world they live in is different from ours - but we are growing closer and learning from each other every day.
This suggests that the inexplicable behaviors we may observe in our pets shouldn't be dismissed as simply nutty. The world they live in is different from ours - but we are growing closer and learning from each other every day.
The Nose Knows
Your nose is like an old static-filled, black-and-white TV compared to a dog's high-definition, state-of-the-art TV. If you laid out all our smell receptors (about 5 million), they would fill your average postage stamp. A dog's receptors (about 220 million) would cover an average handkerchief.
Humans have learned how to harness that smelling power and put the canine nose to work. Dogs are trained to pinpoint gas leaks in underground pipes; locate people under water, snow or collapsed buildings; and sniff out illegal drugs, foods and plants entering the country. Criminals may try to hide their illegal cache in something strong-smelling, but dogs can find the contraband as easily as we can pick a rose out of a bunch of daisies.
With their extraordinary ability to detect some odors at as much as one part per trillion, canines are even becoming medical diagnosticians. Researchers trained household dogs to detect cancer on a patient's breath. The research found that dogs detected lung cancer with 97% accuracy and breast cancer with 88% accuracy.
Humans have learned how to harness that smelling power and put the canine nose to work. Dogs are trained to pinpoint gas leaks in underground pipes; locate people under water, snow or collapsed buildings; and sniff out illegal drugs, foods and plants entering the country. Criminals may try to hide their illegal cache in something strong-smelling, but dogs can find the contraband as easily as we can pick a rose out of a bunch of daisies.
With their extraordinary ability to detect some odors at as much as one part per trillion, canines are even becoming medical diagnosticians. Researchers trained household dogs to detect cancer on a patient's breath. The research found that dogs detected lung cancer with 97% accuracy and breast cancer with 88% accuracy.
Sunday, November 12, 2006
Cat Treat Recipe
Terrific Kitty Treats
Makes 12 treats
1 6-ounce can of tuna
1/4 cup water drained from tuna
3 tablespoons cooked egg white, chopped
1/4 cup cornmeal
1/2 cup whole wheat flour
1. Heat oven to 350F. Spray cookie sheet with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Combine tuna, water and egg white. Add cornmeal and flour and blend to form dough. Knead into a ball and roll to 1/4" thickness.
3. Cut into 1" sized pieces and place 1/2" apart on greased cookie sheet.
4. Bake for 20 minutes. Let cool. Store in an airtight container.
Makes 12 treats
1 6-ounce can of tuna
1/4 cup water drained from tuna
3 tablespoons cooked egg white, chopped
1/4 cup cornmeal
1/2 cup whole wheat flour
1. Heat oven to 350F. Spray cookie sheet with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Combine tuna, water and egg white. Add cornmeal and flour and blend to form dough. Knead into a ball and roll to 1/4" thickness.
3. Cut into 1" sized pieces and place 1/2" apart on greased cookie sheet.
4. Bake for 20 minutes. Let cool. Store in an airtight container.
Dog Treat Recipe
Dog Biscuits
Makes 30-40 treats
3/4 cup hot water
1/3 cup margarine
1/2 cup powdered milk
1 teaspoon salt
1 egg, beaten
3 cups whole wheat flour
1. Heat oven to 325F. Spray cookie sheet with nonstick cooking spray.
2. In a large bowl, pour hot water over margarine. Stir in powdered milk, salt and egg. Add flour, 1/2 cup at a time.
3. Knead for a few minutes to form stiff dough. Pat down or roll out to 1/2" thickness. Cut into bone shapes and place 1" apart on cookie sheet.
4. Bake for 50 minutes. Let cool. (They'll dry out quite hard.) Store in an airtight container.
Makes 30-40 treats
3/4 cup hot water
1/3 cup margarine
1/2 cup powdered milk
1 teaspoon salt
1 egg, beaten
3 cups whole wheat flour
1. Heat oven to 325F. Spray cookie sheet with nonstick cooking spray.
2. In a large bowl, pour hot water over margarine. Stir in powdered milk, salt and egg. Add flour, 1/2 cup at a time.
3. Knead for a few minutes to form stiff dough. Pat down or roll out to 1/2" thickness. Cut into bone shapes and place 1" apart on cookie sheet.
4. Bake for 50 minutes. Let cool. (They'll dry out quite hard.) Store in an airtight container.
Saturday, November 11, 2006
Should I Get A Cat?
Cats are wonderful pets if you get to know them, spend time with them, and treat them right.
There are a number of reasons for choosing a cat as a pet:
There are a number of reasons for choosing a cat as a pet:
- Cats are fairly quiet pets in comparison to dogs
- Cats are smaller animals
- Cats bury their own waste and thus don't need to be walked or let outside
- Cats require less grooming than dogs
- Cats are fairly independent animals, although they welcome and thrive on your attention and will grow and blossom in a home where they are cuddled and talked to often
- Cats are fairly non-aggressive
- Cats are less costly than dogs Cats can live in smaller, inside places like apartments or condos
- Cats require little exercise when compared to dogs
- Cats require minimal training
There are a few questions that you need to ask yourself before adopting a cat or kitten. If you answer no to any of them please think long and hard about adopting. Don't adopt if you can not properly take care of your pet, as it is very cruel to that animal!
- Is there enough room in my home? - Although cats require less room than dogs they still need ample room to roam, run, jump and play.
- Can you deal with a litter box and potential accidents? - Although cats are very clean animals and instinctually bury their waste, you still need to clean out their litter box. And as your cat is adjusting to his/her box, if your cat is stressed, if something changes about his/her box (placement or litter type) or if your cat gets ill; he/she may have an accident or two. Are you willing to deal with potential accidents that are bound to occur at some point in your pet's life?
- Can you afford a cat? - Cats are cheaper pets than dogs but you will still need to afford the following: food, treats, bowls, litter, litter box, scooper, scratching post, cat bed, toys, cat carriers, brushes and grooming tools, collar, identification tag, and medical care.
- Do you have time to spend at least 2 hours a day with your pet? - Cats need quality time with you and need to play, be nurtured and be exercised. Plan on spending a minimum of 2 hours a day with your cat. If you are the type that will never be home or will be gone every weekend, don't get a cat.
- Can you deal with training your cat and possibly a few bad behaviors? Cats are fairly easily trained and many cats come to us already knowledgeable about how to act, use a litter box, use a scratching post etc.; however, you may need to spend some time training your pet and/or dealing with the consequences of bad behaviors if you don't train your pet. If you can't deal with this and will get angry at the cat rather than disliking the behavior and fixing that then you need to think long and hard about getting any pet.
- Can you deal with pet hair? - Cats are hairy and they shed. As with any pet the idea of keeping your house immaculate, although possible, will take a little more work.
- Can you keep your cat indoors? - Of course you can take your cat out on walks, or create a fenced in area in your backyard for your cat to play in, but for the safety and longevity of your pet it is best to keep him/her as in indoor animal.
- Can you deal with your furniture potentially getting clawed or damaged? - You can and should train your cat to not claw furniture (rather than getting your cat declawed which is considered cruel by many veterinarians and cat lovers), however, if you don't train your cat properly this can happen.
Cats can bring so much in to your life. They are wonderful, intelligent, expressive creatures who can bring you vast amounts of joy and happiness. It is shown that people (especially seniors) with pets have lower blood pressure, are happier, and live longer. However, if you answered no to any of the above questions we recommend NOT getting a cat. As with any new roommate in your home there are compromises that will need to be made. If you are not willing to deal with some of the compromises with a cat then you should not get one.
Before Purchasing A Dog
Dogs truly can be a person’s best friend with their unconditional love and nonjudgmental nature. They are always ready to play, but if the moment is not right, they are just as happy to sit quietly by your side. Dogs don’t ask for much – a warm place to sleep, food so they don’t go hungry, some fresh air and green grass, and a friend who will look out for them. Despite seeming like the perfect addition to your life, a dog is not for everyone.
While some are a little more high maintenance than others, proper care for any dog requires time, patience and money.
The purchase of a dog is just the beginning in terms of money that will be spent. Food, treats, toys and grooming are costs that will add up over a lifetime. Also, veterinary visits are an important part of maintaining your pet’s health.
The basics of health care include spaying/neutering, annual vaccination and testing to prevent diseases. Expect at least one major problem to arise that will involve extensive medical treatment.
Dogs require a lifetime commitment. Dogs can be expected to live for at least 10-12 years depending on the breed. Time is required for daily walks, socializing, and grooming activities such as tooth brushing. Puppies have much more energy than older dogs and need plenty of time for playing and training. A dog is not suitable for someone who doesn’t spend a lot of time at home.
You also need to consider your living situation. Do you have room for a large dog? Or is a small lap dog what you are looking for? If you live in an apartment, you don’t want a large dog that would require a lot of room to exercise. Caution must always be taken with pets if there are small children in the house. Even the most laid back dog can be frightened by high pitched squeal and over enthusiastic playing or hugs. If you have other pets in the household, make sure they are compatible.
Once you have decided that a dog will fit into your life, there are many careful decisions to be made. Do you have the time and patience for a puppy? Or are you looking for an older, more mature dog? Puppies of course are cute, but remember that they have unlimited energy and will require lots of training.
No matter which dog ultimately goes home with you, remember that each is an individual with his or her own unique personality and will require a lifetime of unconditional love.
While some are a little more high maintenance than others, proper care for any dog requires time, patience and money.
The purchase of a dog is just the beginning in terms of money that will be spent. Food, treats, toys and grooming are costs that will add up over a lifetime. Also, veterinary visits are an important part of maintaining your pet’s health.
The basics of health care include spaying/neutering, annual vaccination and testing to prevent diseases. Expect at least one major problem to arise that will involve extensive medical treatment.
Dogs require a lifetime commitment. Dogs can be expected to live for at least 10-12 years depending on the breed. Time is required for daily walks, socializing, and grooming activities such as tooth brushing. Puppies have much more energy than older dogs and need plenty of time for playing and training. A dog is not suitable for someone who doesn’t spend a lot of time at home.
You also need to consider your living situation. Do you have room for a large dog? Or is a small lap dog what you are looking for? If you live in an apartment, you don’t want a large dog that would require a lot of room to exercise. Caution must always be taken with pets if there are small children in the house. Even the most laid back dog can be frightened by high pitched squeal and over enthusiastic playing or hugs. If you have other pets in the household, make sure they are compatible.
Once you have decided that a dog will fit into your life, there are many careful decisions to be made. Do you have the time and patience for a puppy? Or are you looking for an older, more mature dog? Puppies of course are cute, but remember that they have unlimited energy and will require lots of training.
No matter which dog ultimately goes home with you, remember that each is an individual with his or her own unique personality and will require a lifetime of unconditional love.
Friday, November 10, 2006
It's Raining Cat - A Short Story
As raindrops fell on that spring afternoon, Ralph sat in his living room reading the newspaper, refusing to acknowledge the desperate pleas. The same ones he had been hearing outside his front door every day for the past two weeks.
"Meeooooow. Meeooooow. Meeooooow. Meeooooow."
He made the mistake on the first day by giving that stray cat a little leftover tuna. Now, the cat wouldn't leave him along.
"Meeooooow. Meeooooow. Meeooooow. Meeooooow."
Ralph couldn't take it anymore. He got up, opened the front door and addressed his tormentor.
"Whaddya think this is, a cat restaurant!?!? Scram!"
The cat looked up meekly and, realizing it was a lost cause, rambled off into the April shower with its tail between its legs.
Seeing that pathetic little cat walking away in the rain made Ralph even angrier.
"Now stop trying to make me feel guilty. It's not my fault you don't have any place to go."
Like the thundering skies above, Ralph stormed away and returned to his paper. But all he could think about was that darned cat.
"Doggone cat!"
He stomped back and opened the front door. Outside, he found the cat shivering and looking absolutely pathetic.
"All right, get in here."
The cat ran in gleefully, wiping itself off on Ralph's drapes, sofa - anything upon which it could dry itself. Ralph just rolled his eyes.
"Why don't you make yourself at home."
The cat ignored his sarcasm and continued frolicking.
"Suppose you're hungry, too."
"Meeooowww."
Ralph went to the kitchen and opened a can of tuna. He also poured a little milk in a bowl and set them both on the floor. The grateful cat devoured the feast.
After eating, the freeloader trotted back into the living room to join Ralph, who was once again immersed in the newspaper.
"Meeooowww."
Ralph peered over his paper as the cat jumped up into his recliner and lay next to him. He thought about tossing the cat back on the floor, but seeing the cat's hopeful eyes, he reconsidered.
"Don't make yourself too comfortable. When the rain stops, you're outta here."
Three hours later, the skies cleared (along with Ralph's memory, apparently). Because this story took place eight years ago, and Ralph and the cat are still together.
"Meeooooow. Meeooooow. Meeooooow. Meeooooow."
He made the mistake on the first day by giving that stray cat a little leftover tuna. Now, the cat wouldn't leave him along.
"Meeooooow. Meeooooow. Meeooooow. Meeooooow."
Ralph couldn't take it anymore. He got up, opened the front door and addressed his tormentor.
"Whaddya think this is, a cat restaurant!?!? Scram!"
The cat looked up meekly and, realizing it was a lost cause, rambled off into the April shower with its tail between its legs.
Seeing that pathetic little cat walking away in the rain made Ralph even angrier.
"Now stop trying to make me feel guilty. It's not my fault you don't have any place to go."
Like the thundering skies above, Ralph stormed away and returned to his paper. But all he could think about was that darned cat.
"Doggone cat!"
He stomped back and opened the front door. Outside, he found the cat shivering and looking absolutely pathetic.
"All right, get in here."
The cat ran in gleefully, wiping itself off on Ralph's drapes, sofa - anything upon which it could dry itself. Ralph just rolled his eyes.
"Why don't you make yourself at home."
The cat ignored his sarcasm and continued frolicking.
"Suppose you're hungry, too."
"Meeooowww."
Ralph went to the kitchen and opened a can of tuna. He also poured a little milk in a bowl and set them both on the floor. The grateful cat devoured the feast.
After eating, the freeloader trotted back into the living room to join Ralph, who was once again immersed in the newspaper.
"Meeooowww."
Ralph peered over his paper as the cat jumped up into his recliner and lay next to him. He thought about tossing the cat back on the floor, but seeing the cat's hopeful eyes, he reconsidered.
"Don't make yourself too comfortable. When the rain stops, you're outta here."
Three hours later, the skies cleared (along with Ralph's memory, apparently). Because this story took place eight years ago, and Ralph and the cat are still together.
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