1. Your female dog or cat will live a longer, healthier life. Spaying—the removal of the ovaries and uterus—is a veterinary procedure performed under general anesthesia that usually requires minimal hospitalization. Spaying a female cat or dog helps prevent breast cancer. Breast cancer can be fatal in about 50 percent of female dogs and in 90 percent of female cats. Spaying your pet before her first heat offers the best protection from these diseases.
2. There are major health benefits for your male animal companion, too. Besides preventing unwanted litters, neutering your male dog or cat—the surgical removal of the testicles—prevents testicular cancer, if done before six months of age.
3. Your spayed female won't go into heat. While cycles can vary greatly, female cats usually go into heat four to five days every three weeks during breeding season. In an effort to advertise for mates, they'll yowl and urinate more frequently—sometimes all over the house. Unspayed female dogs generally have a bloody discharge for about a week, and can conceive for another week or so.
4. Your male dog won't need to roam away from home…An intact male in search of a mate will do just about anything to get one! That includes digging his way under the fence just to escape from the house. And once he's free to roam, he risks injury in traffic and fights with other males.
5. Neutered cats and dogs focus their attention on their human families. On the other hand, unneutered dogs and cats may mark their territory by spraying strong-smelling urine all over the house. Indoors, male dogs may embarrass you by mounting on furniture and human legs when stimulated. A neutered dog protects his home and family just as well as unneutered dog--and many aggression problems can be avoided by early neutering.
6. Spaying or neutering will DOES NOT make your pet fat. Lack of exercise and overfeeding will cause your pet to pack on the extra pounds—not neutering. Your pet will remain fit and trim as long as you continue to provide exercise and monitor food intake.
7. Spaying or neutering is highly cost-effective. The cost of your pet's spay or neuter surgery is a lot less than the cost of having and caring for a litter. It also isn't as expensive as the cost of treatment when your unneutered cat escapes and gets into fights with neighborhood strays…or the cost of cleaning the carpet that your unspayed female cat keeps mistaking for her litter box!
8. It's good for the community. Stray animals pose real problems in many parts of the country. They can prey on wildlife, cause vehicular accidents, and scare children.
9. Your pet doesn't need to have a litter for your children to witness the miracle of birth. Anyone who has seen an animal euthanized in a shelter for lack of a home knows the truth behind this dangerous myth. There are countless books and videos available to teach your children about birth in a responsible manner.
Millions of cats and dogs of all ages and breeds are euthanized annually or suffer as strays. These high numbers are the result of unwanted, unplanned litters that could have been prevented by spaying or neutering.
Sunday, February 25, 2007
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
Overweight Pets
It started with a little treat between meals. Then a couple more treats between meals. And pretty soon those little treats began to add up, and that little spare tire around the middle just keeps getting bigger and bigger. I’m talking about your pet’s spare tire.
Recent research studies found about 25% of our furry friends are obese or overweight.
Why is it a problem if your pet is overweight? Because obesity decreases your beloved pet’s lifespan, and may lead to diabetes, arthritis, heart complications, endocrinal diseases and bad joints. Somehow “fat and happy" is beginning to sound a little less jolly, isn’t it?
How do household pets become overweight in the first place? You might want to step in front of a mirror and take a good look, nine times out of ten, you are the reason your pet is overweight. We’re all guilty of over-indulging our pets at some time in their lives. It’s hard not to. One look at their cute little faces begging at the table and us humans melt.
But, now, it’s time for a little discipline – for us and for them. They will stop their begging at the table if we don’t give in to them in the first place. You see, they continue their sad-sack, “if you loved me, you would give me some of that pork chop" look because it works. It’s time for it to stop working.
Table scraps, of course, isn’t the only reason for your pet being overweight. Some people have a tendency to overfeed them with their own pet food, or leave food out for them at all times so they don’t go hungry. It’s always a good idea to take a look at the recommended amounts on the cat or dog food bags to see what the suggested amounts are, or follow your vet’s recommendations. Then, stick to those amounts, no matter what pathetic little faces they make.
There are plenty of diet pet foods to choose from, available online or at the local pet store. Be sure to ask your vet if your pet requires diet food, and make the changeover from the regular food to the diet food gradually. Put a little of the diet food in with the regular food at first, then gradually increase the amount until the diet food is the only food your pet is eating.
Another reason for pet obesity is lack of exercise. For a dog the solution is to take the dog for more walks during the week. If you can’t walk the dog yourself due to your work schedule, do your dog a favor and hire a dog walker to walk your dog on a regular basis. Not only will this benefit your dog’s weight, but will also give him/her numerous other health benefits, as well as just contribute to your dog’s overall happiness. Many dog walkers will walk your dog for $10 to $15 a visit. That may seem like a lot to pay (especially for several walks a week), but if it adds quality time to your dog’s life, it’s worth it.
As for indoor cats, you’re going to have to get your cat to play more. And that may require some time and energy on your part. Provide your cat with plenty of toys for individual play, as well as balls and wands for you and your cat to play with together.
How can you tell if your cat or dog is overweight? Take a look at the rib cage of your pet. The ribs should not be visible to the eye, but should be easily felt without pressing. If you have any doubts, consult with your vet, who will recommend food portions or special foods, as well as give exercise suggestions.
Your pet doesn’t have to suffer from health problems relating to obesity. With feeding discipline and added exercise, you can help ensure that your pet will truly live “a dog’s life" – even if she is a cat.
Recent research studies found about 25% of our furry friends are obese or overweight.
Why is it a problem if your pet is overweight? Because obesity decreases your beloved pet’s lifespan, and may lead to diabetes, arthritis, heart complications, endocrinal diseases and bad joints. Somehow “fat and happy" is beginning to sound a little less jolly, isn’t it?
How do household pets become overweight in the first place? You might want to step in front of a mirror and take a good look, nine times out of ten, you are the reason your pet is overweight. We’re all guilty of over-indulging our pets at some time in their lives. It’s hard not to. One look at their cute little faces begging at the table and us humans melt.
But, now, it’s time for a little discipline – for us and for them. They will stop their begging at the table if we don’t give in to them in the first place. You see, they continue their sad-sack, “if you loved me, you would give me some of that pork chop" look because it works. It’s time for it to stop working.
Table scraps, of course, isn’t the only reason for your pet being overweight. Some people have a tendency to overfeed them with their own pet food, or leave food out for them at all times so they don’t go hungry. It’s always a good idea to take a look at the recommended amounts on the cat or dog food bags to see what the suggested amounts are, or follow your vet’s recommendations. Then, stick to those amounts, no matter what pathetic little faces they make.
There are plenty of diet pet foods to choose from, available online or at the local pet store. Be sure to ask your vet if your pet requires diet food, and make the changeover from the regular food to the diet food gradually. Put a little of the diet food in with the regular food at first, then gradually increase the amount until the diet food is the only food your pet is eating.
Another reason for pet obesity is lack of exercise. For a dog the solution is to take the dog for more walks during the week. If you can’t walk the dog yourself due to your work schedule, do your dog a favor and hire a dog walker to walk your dog on a regular basis. Not only will this benefit your dog’s weight, but will also give him/her numerous other health benefits, as well as just contribute to your dog’s overall happiness. Many dog walkers will walk your dog for $10 to $15 a visit. That may seem like a lot to pay (especially for several walks a week), but if it adds quality time to your dog’s life, it’s worth it.
As for indoor cats, you’re going to have to get your cat to play more. And that may require some time and energy on your part. Provide your cat with plenty of toys for individual play, as well as balls and wands for you and your cat to play with together.
How can you tell if your cat or dog is overweight? Take a look at the rib cage of your pet. The ribs should not be visible to the eye, but should be easily felt without pressing. If you have any doubts, consult with your vet, who will recommend food portions or special foods, as well as give exercise suggestions.
Your pet doesn’t have to suffer from health problems relating to obesity. With feeding discipline and added exercise, you can help ensure that your pet will truly live “a dog’s life" – even if she is a cat.
Sunday, February 18, 2007
Teaching Your Dog To Come
One of the most important training exercises to teach your dog is to "come" when called. The primary goal is that your dog always stops what it is doing and returns to you.
Since your dog can easily get hurt or into trouble in many different circumstances (like chasing after another animal) it is critical that you teach your dog this command as soon as possible. It is up to you to ensure your dog is safe.
The key to training your dog is consistency and an immediate positive reward. Your dog must always get a positive reward every time you say "come" and they come over to you. You can reward your dog with either a food treat, one of their favorite toys or a good petting. Tell them "good dog" with an enthusiastic tone of voice. In other words, make a big deal over it.
Since your dog can easily get hurt or into trouble in many different circumstances (like chasing after another animal) it is critical that you teach your dog this command as soon as possible. It is up to you to ensure your dog is safe.
The key to training your dog is consistency and an immediate positive reward. Your dog must always get a positive reward every time you say "come" and they come over to you. You can reward your dog with either a food treat, one of their favorite toys or a good petting. Tell them "good dog" with an enthusiastic tone of voice. In other words, make a big deal over it.
Friday, February 16, 2007
Two Cats - Double The Fun
Two cats can be better than one!
With two cats in your home, your family will be able to enjoy the true social nature of cats and their relationship with each other. Having a playmate provides companionship and active stimulation during your absence and keeps both cats more playful and youthful in their later years. But how you prepare for the new cat’s arrival and how you manage the transition is very important.
Cats, most of the time, are very cautious of new places and things. They don’t like change in their lives, and it will take time–the amount will vary with each individual cat – for your new cat to adjust to unfamiliar surroundings. A kitten is usually easier to integrate into the household with a full-sized adult. Cats of opposite sexes usually get along better.
Here are a few tips to help provide a friendlier transition:
• Set the new cat up in a small “safe room," a bathroom with a tiled floor or a confined space he can call his own for a week or so. Get new food and water bowls, a litter box, scratching post/pad and bedding. Visit him frequently with interactive toys, special treats and lots of hands-on loving during the first week.
• Feed your resident cat and the newcomer on opposite sides of the door of the “safe room" so they can smell each other and associate the new cat smell with an enjoyable experience. Gradually move the food dishes closer to the door until they are eating calmly directly opposite each other.
• Switch scents by switching their beds between the new cat and the resident cat so they have a chance to become accustomed to each other’s scent. Another option is to rub a small towel on each cat and place the towel from the opposite under the food dish of the other cat.
• Begin an exchange of living space once your new cat is settled in and eating regularly in the confined room. Let the new cat have some free time in the house while you confine the resident cat in the “safe room." This is another way the cats can experience each other’s scents without meeting face-to-face. It also helps the new cat get comfortable with her new surroundings without experiencing the other cat.
• Securely prop the door open a crack so they can safely see each other for the first time when the cats seem to be relaxed with everything you have done so far. Place treats on each side of the door and connect two toys with several inches of string slipped under the door so they can try playing with each other.
• When the cats seem to be calm in each other’s presence, it’s time to open the “safe room" door and let her out for a few minutes. The length of time should be increased gradually. Always allow the new cat an escape path back to her “safe room" if needed.
This process may take a few weeks or a few months depending on the personalities and territorial needs of the cats. If from time to time your cats become hostile or fearful, return the newcomer to the “safe room," close the door and let them calm down. Back up one stage in this process and begin again. Minor setbacks don’t ruin a growing friendship, but an aggressive encounter will be remembered a long time and should be avoided. The time you spend slowly orchestrating a proper introduction of your cats will eventually be rewarded with years of harmonious habitation and loving companionship.
With two cats in your home, your family will be able to enjoy the true social nature of cats and their relationship with each other. Having a playmate provides companionship and active stimulation during your absence and keeps both cats more playful and youthful in their later years. But how you prepare for the new cat’s arrival and how you manage the transition is very important.
Cats, most of the time, are very cautious of new places and things. They don’t like change in their lives, and it will take time–the amount will vary with each individual cat – for your new cat to adjust to unfamiliar surroundings. A kitten is usually easier to integrate into the household with a full-sized adult. Cats of opposite sexes usually get along better.
Here are a few tips to help provide a friendlier transition:
• Set the new cat up in a small “safe room," a bathroom with a tiled floor or a confined space he can call his own for a week or so. Get new food and water bowls, a litter box, scratching post/pad and bedding. Visit him frequently with interactive toys, special treats and lots of hands-on loving during the first week.
• Feed your resident cat and the newcomer on opposite sides of the door of the “safe room" so they can smell each other and associate the new cat smell with an enjoyable experience. Gradually move the food dishes closer to the door until they are eating calmly directly opposite each other.
• Switch scents by switching their beds between the new cat and the resident cat so they have a chance to become accustomed to each other’s scent. Another option is to rub a small towel on each cat and place the towel from the opposite under the food dish of the other cat.
• Begin an exchange of living space once your new cat is settled in and eating regularly in the confined room. Let the new cat have some free time in the house while you confine the resident cat in the “safe room." This is another way the cats can experience each other’s scents without meeting face-to-face. It also helps the new cat get comfortable with her new surroundings without experiencing the other cat.
• Securely prop the door open a crack so they can safely see each other for the first time when the cats seem to be relaxed with everything you have done so far. Place treats on each side of the door and connect two toys with several inches of string slipped under the door so they can try playing with each other.
• When the cats seem to be calm in each other’s presence, it’s time to open the “safe room" door and let her out for a few minutes. The length of time should be increased gradually. Always allow the new cat an escape path back to her “safe room" if needed.
This process may take a few weeks or a few months depending on the personalities and territorial needs of the cats. If from time to time your cats become hostile or fearful, return the newcomer to the “safe room," close the door and let them calm down. Back up one stage in this process and begin again. Minor setbacks don’t ruin a growing friendship, but an aggressive encounter will be remembered a long time and should be avoided. The time you spend slowly orchestrating a proper introduction of your cats will eventually be rewarded with years of harmonious habitation and loving companionship.
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
Training Your New Puppy
One of the key elements to training your new pup is consistency. You will be able to train your pup much quicker by using the same command each and every time than you would if you chopped and changed between single word commands.
Remember a pup is much like a young child and therefore has a reasonably short attention span, try not to train for more than ten to twenty minutes at a time and always try to make it fun.
Your pup is never too young to start learning the basics and the first things you’ll want to start them with are sitting, staying and coming when called.
Teaching your puppy to stay will require a little extra effort but is very much worth it.
Find somewhere where your pup will not be easily distracted and tell it to sit. Once it has assumed the sitting position, make eye contact with your pup and slowly start backing way, your pup’s first reaction will probably be to follow you. As soon as you see it start moving say “Stay," and get it to sit again. This will take a lot of effort and patience.
Initially don’t make it stay for too long, once it has followed the command call it to you, using whichever command you choose ("here," "come," and your puppies name) when it reaches you again praise profusely and offer treats. This is also part of teaching your dog to come when it’s called so always use the same command, even when playing around.
When your pup does this to your satisfaction, make it a little harder by turning your back on it and walking away. Again if your pup gets up to follow, say “stay," and start over again. As soon as you’ve reached a set distance turn and call your pup to you.
Two other handy tips when training your new pup, make sure all members of the family know which commands you are going to use, and they follow through and use the same commands; it can be too confusing for a young pup if one family member uses one command and another something else.
And always remember, your pup wants to please you, praising for achievement rather than punishing for failure will make your puppy training a rewarding experience for both you and your pup.
Remember a pup is much like a young child and therefore has a reasonably short attention span, try not to train for more than ten to twenty minutes at a time and always try to make it fun.
Your pup is never too young to start learning the basics and the first things you’ll want to start them with are sitting, staying and coming when called.
Teaching your puppy to stay will require a little extra effort but is very much worth it.
Find somewhere where your pup will not be easily distracted and tell it to sit. Once it has assumed the sitting position, make eye contact with your pup and slowly start backing way, your pup’s first reaction will probably be to follow you. As soon as you see it start moving say “Stay," and get it to sit again. This will take a lot of effort and patience.
Initially don’t make it stay for too long, once it has followed the command call it to you, using whichever command you choose ("here," "come," and your puppies name) when it reaches you again praise profusely and offer treats. This is also part of teaching your dog to come when it’s called so always use the same command, even when playing around.
When your pup does this to your satisfaction, make it a little harder by turning your back on it and walking away. Again if your pup gets up to follow, say “stay," and start over again. As soon as you’ve reached a set distance turn and call your pup to you.
Two other handy tips when training your new pup, make sure all members of the family know which commands you are going to use, and they follow through and use the same commands; it can be too confusing for a young pup if one family member uses one command and another something else.
And always remember, your pup wants to please you, praising for achievement rather than punishing for failure will make your puppy training a rewarding experience for both you and your pup.
Sunday, February 11, 2007
Bad Foods For Dogs
Here are just a few common foods that are bad or poisonous for your dog.
Alcohol - Do not give your do sips of any alcoholic beverage. Ingestion can lead to injury, disorientation, sickness, urination problems or even coma or death from alcohol poisoning. Some dogs may be attracted to alcoholic drinks so don't leave one setting where the dog can reach it.
Apples - The seeds contain cyanogenic glycosides which can result in cyanide poisoning.
Apricots - The seed pit contains cyanogenic glycosides which can result in cyanide poisoning.
Avocado - Avocado contains a toxic element called persin which can damage heart, lung and other tissue in many animals. The seed pit is also toxic and if swallowed can become lodged in the intestinal tract.
Baby Food - Before feeding any baby food to your dog check the ingredients to see if it contains onion powder, which can be toxic to dogs.
If you suspect that your dog might have eaten any food that might be toxic, contact their vet immediately.
Alcohol - Do not give your do sips of any alcoholic beverage. Ingestion can lead to injury, disorientation, sickness, urination problems or even coma or death from alcohol poisoning. Some dogs may be attracted to alcoholic drinks so don't leave one setting where the dog can reach it.
Apples - The seeds contain cyanogenic glycosides which can result in cyanide poisoning.
Apricots - The seed pit contains cyanogenic glycosides which can result in cyanide poisoning.
Avocado - Avocado contains a toxic element called persin which can damage heart, lung and other tissue in many animals. The seed pit is also toxic and if swallowed can become lodged in the intestinal tract.
Baby Food - Before feeding any baby food to your dog check the ingredients to see if it contains onion powder, which can be toxic to dogs.
If you suspect that your dog might have eaten any food that might be toxic, contact their vet immediately.
Saturday, February 10, 2007
Protect Your Pet From Poisonous Things
There are so many ways that your pet can be poisoned. Poisons can be ingested (eaten or drank), absorbed through the skin, or inhaled. While some poisons act immediately, some take days for symptoms to appear which can make a diagnosis difficult because the symptoms of poisoning are similar to other medical problems.
When signs like tremors or seizures begin to show your main objective is to get your dog to a veterinarian as quickly as possible. Try to bring with you a sample of the vomit or better yet the poison in its original container.
If for any reason you suspect your pet has been poisoned the sooner you seek veterinary treatment the better your pet's chances for survival, hopefully with no long term side effects or organ damage.
When signs like tremors or seizures begin to show your main objective is to get your dog to a veterinarian as quickly as possible. Try to bring with you a sample of the vomit or better yet the poison in its original container.
If for any reason you suspect your pet has been poisoned the sooner you seek veterinary treatment the better your pet's chances for survival, hopefully with no long term side effects or organ damage.
Tuesday, February 06, 2007
Cat Toys
Cats are easy to amuse. There is very little that could not serve as a cat toy in a pinch. In many households, commercial cat toys gather dust while the cat enjoys everyday items they find around the house.
What may be considered garbage to you, such as bottle caps, paper bags, and boxes, can be an exciting toy to your cat.
You do need to pay special attention to the household items your cat is playing with. Make sure that bits and pieces item can't get chewed off and swallowed because they could become lodged in their mouth or throat. You also need to make sure that small pieces don't get caught on their claws and prevent them from retracting. If you have doubts about the household item your cat has chosen to play with, discard it to avoid problems.
Look carefully at the commercial cat toys you purchase. Make sure that the toy fits the cat's personality and your cat can have hours of safe play time.
What may be considered garbage to you, such as bottle caps, paper bags, and boxes, can be an exciting toy to your cat.
You do need to pay special attention to the household items your cat is playing with. Make sure that bits and pieces item can't get chewed off and swallowed because they could become lodged in their mouth or throat. You also need to make sure that small pieces don't get caught on their claws and prevent them from retracting. If you have doubts about the household item your cat has chosen to play with, discard it to avoid problems.
Look carefully at the commercial cat toys you purchase. Make sure that the toy fits the cat's personality and your cat can have hours of safe play time.
Sunday, February 04, 2007
Cat Furniture
Your cat is a special friend and deserves the best in cat furniture.
There is the kitty fun house boot and bed, which is a kitty boot made of a plush padded fabric for a cozy bed and numerous holes to have a great play time.
There is also kitty bed that is shaped like a slice of cheese. It has many entrances and is loads of fun or a nice place to snooze.
Sometimes a cat can seem to be very independent but at the end of the day if they have nice comfortable furniture to cuddle up in, they will always be purring.
It is nice to provide furniture to make your cats lives more comfortable. Cat furniture is designed for the sole comfort of your cats. Cats come in many sizes and shapes and so does the furniture to accommodate them.
There is the kitty fun house boot and bed, which is a kitty boot made of a plush padded fabric for a cozy bed and numerous holes to have a great play time.
There is also kitty bed that is shaped like a slice of cheese. It has many entrances and is loads of fun or a nice place to snooze.
Sometimes a cat can seem to be very independent but at the end of the day if they have nice comfortable furniture to cuddle up in, they will always be purring.
It is nice to provide furniture to make your cats lives more comfortable. Cat furniture is designed for the sole comfort of your cats. Cats come in many sizes and shapes and so does the furniture to accommodate them.
Saturday, February 03, 2007
Puppies and Chewing
Chewing is a normal and healthy part of any puppies development. However, you need to train them on what is acceptable and unacceptable to chew on. You also need to remove temptation out of their reach. Don't leave your $200 designer shoes on the floor where the puppy can get them. Make sure you have plenty of good dog toys available for the puppy. I keep a basket of toys by the back door that holds their favorite toys.
Puppies learn about the world through chewing. They want to taste it. For this reason, you will want to make sure that you have puppy proofed your home. Remove possible threats from their reach, such as electrical cords, poisonous houseplants, household chemicals, and chocolate. You must protect your puppy from dangers.
If you do catch your puppy chewing on things they are not supposed to, say NO in an affirmative tone. Be consistent in your NO command training. Your puppy will learn NO early and respond to it instantly. When you are taking the unacceptable item away from your puppy, don't play tug of war with them. They will think this is a new game. Instead offer the puppy a dog toy and show them that is acceptable to chew on. Before long you will notice that your puppy is only chewing on his toys and not your designer shoes.
Puppies learn about the world through chewing. They want to taste it. For this reason, you will want to make sure that you have puppy proofed your home. Remove possible threats from their reach, such as electrical cords, poisonous houseplants, household chemicals, and chocolate. You must protect your puppy from dangers.
If you do catch your puppy chewing on things they are not supposed to, say NO in an affirmative tone. Be consistent in your NO command training. Your puppy will learn NO early and respond to it instantly. When you are taking the unacceptable item away from your puppy, don't play tug of war with them. They will think this is a new game. Instead offer the puppy a dog toy and show them that is acceptable to chew on. Before long you will notice that your puppy is only chewing on his toys and not your designer shoes.
Friday, February 02, 2007
Giving Pills To Your Pets
Your pet is probably not going to want to take a pill and if you have to handle the pet with force, than they will resist you. Try to use as little force and restraint as possible and be quick about giving the pill.
Place your thumb and index finger just behind your pet's upper jaw behind the canines and tilt their head upwards. This allows the mouth to open and you can quickly insert the pill with your other hand. You want to place the pill near the base of the tongue.
Once you've got the pill in, close their mouth shut and hold it for a few seconds to make sure they don't spit it out. Sometimes if you blow gently on their nose it will force them to swallow.
If you have a dog or cat that just refuses to let you give them their pills, try hiding the food in a small amount of food or their favorite treat. There are also "pill guns" that are sold which can make it easier to give your pets their pills.
Place your thumb and index finger just behind your pet's upper jaw behind the canines and tilt their head upwards. This allows the mouth to open and you can quickly insert the pill with your other hand. You want to place the pill near the base of the tongue.
Once you've got the pill in, close their mouth shut and hold it for a few seconds to make sure they don't spit it out. Sometimes if you blow gently on their nose it will force them to swallow.
If you have a dog or cat that just refuses to let you give them their pills, try hiding the food in a small amount of food or their favorite treat. There are also "pill guns" that are sold which can make it easier to give your pets their pills.
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