The hot summer months can be tough on your pet. Dogs and cats cannot sweat so it is hard for them to regulate their temperature. There are several ways that you can help your pet keep cool. Some animals with long, thick fur can be shaved down during the summer. They may look a little funny, but this really helps cool them off. Also here at Pet Supplies “Plus” we carry several different cooling bandanas that can be soaked in water and also frozen to help cool them down as well. Be sure to keep plenty of cool fresh water available at all times for your pet. (I like to put ice cubes in it.) And NEVER leave them in the car during the hot summer months because the temperature in your car almost doubles when the windows are left closed in a car without the air conditioning on. Be sure that when you are walking your pet that their nose is moist and cool. If your pet is panting profusely and has a hot dry nose he or she may be overheating. I recommend not walking your pet during the peak hot hours of the day. Trying these suggestions and making sure your animal is not overheated will make this summer cooler and healthier for your pet.
Amanda T, CPNA
Monday, July 26, 2010
HOT Summer Weather
ALWAYS make sure your pets have plenty of cool water throughout the day. Remember, animals can get overheated just like people do. Even if you have indoor animals like cats, hamsters or birds they will need to keep hydrated in the heat of summer. If you have outdoor pets like dogs or even farm animals, be sure to have a place for them to get out of the sun. A nice shady spot under some trees is ideal for dogs. You can also purchase or construct a "house" or shelter for your pets to escape to and keep cool. Here are a couple of tips to keep your pets safe in HOT summer weather.
• Always available water Secure the water dish to avoid an accidental spill. You may also want to consider adding another water bowl or two in your pet's area, just in case.
• Ouch - hot feet alert If you will be walking with your pet, remember that while paw pads are "tough" they are also sensitive, and can be burned while walking on hot pavement and tar. If possible, walk on grass or dirt, and check your pet's paw pads to make sure there isn't any redness or pain.
• Good grooming is important for your pet's health and comfort. Speak with a groomer or veterinarian to find out what is best for your pet. A full shave may not be the answer, depending on your pet's coat/breed, and caution is advised for white and light-skinned pets getting sunburned.
• Consider a cooling dog bed. When hot weather arrives, dogs sometimes abandon their comfy beds to seek out cold spots on tile or hardwood floors. But if you want your dog to enjoy that coolness and still have the comfort of a dog bed, you could buy a cooling dog bed. Some cooling beds can be filled with water, which is then circulated through the inside of the bed to keep it cool.
• Ice cream treats or Ice Treats – Many companies now offer Dog Ice Cream or Frozen treats for your pets. So when it’s a hot day outside, remember don’t forget about your furry friends they would probably enjoy a nice cool treat to help cool them down.
Caleb L, CPNA
• Always available water Secure the water dish to avoid an accidental spill. You may also want to consider adding another water bowl or two in your pet's area, just in case.
• Ouch - hot feet alert If you will be walking with your pet, remember that while paw pads are "tough" they are also sensitive, and can be burned while walking on hot pavement and tar. If possible, walk on grass or dirt, and check your pet's paw pads to make sure there isn't any redness or pain.
• Good grooming is important for your pet's health and comfort. Speak with a groomer or veterinarian to find out what is best for your pet. A full shave may not be the answer, depending on your pet's coat/breed, and caution is advised for white and light-skinned pets getting sunburned.
• Consider a cooling dog bed. When hot weather arrives, dogs sometimes abandon their comfy beds to seek out cold spots on tile or hardwood floors. But if you want your dog to enjoy that coolness and still have the comfort of a dog bed, you could buy a cooling dog bed. Some cooling beds can be filled with water, which is then circulated through the inside of the bed to keep it cool.
• Ice cream treats or Ice Treats – Many companies now offer Dog Ice Cream or Frozen treats for your pets. So when it’s a hot day outside, remember don’t forget about your furry friends they would probably enjoy a nice cool treat to help cool them down.
Caleb L, CPNA
Friday, July 9, 2010
How to Kill Ear Mites Naturally
Having indoor cats my whole life, I have thankfully not had to deal with all of the pests that are more frequent among dogs and outdoors cats. I have adopted kittens who have been infected with ear mites, which were most likely transmitted by their outdoor mothers. In those cases years ago, our kittens were given medicine from the vet. At Pet Supplies "Plus" we sell over the counter products to treat ear mites. For those who prefer to treat their animals in a more natural fashion, I have found a recipe.
To initially clean the ear, place a small amount of Vegetable or Olive Oil into the ear canal. Massage the ear, and then use cotton balls or cotton swabs (carefully!!) to clean out the debris. To relieve some of the irritation and discomfort caused by the mites, you can use a natural treatment of Sulphur or Psorinum. Now to kill the mites, there are a couple of natural remedies that you can make at home.
The first one, is to mix 9 drops of Yellow Dock Root Extract and 1 tablespoon of water. Use an eyedropper to insert the treatment into the pet's ear, being sure to massage it well before the pet is able to shake it out. Administer the treatment once every three days for a period of six weeks.
The second treatment mixes 1/2 an ounce of Almond Oil with 400 IU's of Vitamin E. Warm up the mixture to body temperature and apply 1/2 an eyedropper into each affected ear. Massage the mixture around in the ear and remove the excess with cotton balls. Administer the treatment for a period of six days, leave it for three days, and then repeat.
Staci V, CPNA
To initially clean the ear, place a small amount of Vegetable or Olive Oil into the ear canal. Massage the ear, and then use cotton balls or cotton swabs (carefully!!) to clean out the debris. To relieve some of the irritation and discomfort caused by the mites, you can use a natural treatment of Sulphur or Psorinum. Now to kill the mites, there are a couple of natural remedies that you can make at home.
The first one, is to mix 9 drops of Yellow Dock Root Extract and 1 tablespoon of water. Use an eyedropper to insert the treatment into the pet's ear, being sure to massage it well before the pet is able to shake it out. Administer the treatment once every three days for a period of six weeks.
The second treatment mixes 1/2 an ounce of Almond Oil with 400 IU's of Vitamin E. Warm up the mixture to body temperature and apply 1/2 an eyedropper into each affected ear. Massage the mixture around in the ear and remove the excess with cotton balls. Administer the treatment for a period of six days, leave it for three days, and then repeat.
Staci V, CPNA
Heartworm Prevention
When I decided I wanted to learn a bit more about heartworms and the dangers these parasites pose to our pets and therefore the importance of preventative care, I thought this was going to a relatively straight forward topic. And it did start out this way.
Everyone agrees on the method these nasty worms infect our dogs, cats and even ferrets. In a nutshell, our pet gets bitten by a mosquito that has all ready bitten an infected animal and passes on the larval stage of the worm through its saliva which is deposited near the bite. The larva swims through the saliva to the bite hours later. From there, the larvae gets into the bloodstream where it matures in about six months and becomes the critter we call a heartworm. As the heartworm matures it migrates to the arteries of the lungs and the right side of the heart. If left untreated, our pet could die.
Everyone also agrees that prevention is the key in this awful disease. But how to do so is where the controversy begins. We pet owners are all familiar with the monthly preventatives that our vet sells us like Heartgard, but I was very surprised to learn that there is another group of people that would like us to be more aware that there is a more natural method that exists to prevent heartworm disease in our pets. These individuals, mainly holistic-minded people, believe that using a safer gentler herbal mixture is much better for the long-term health of our animals. Most of the websites I visited in regards to “natural” heartworm prevention, however, differed on exactly which herbs were the best to get the job done. I’m not suggesting that we all jump on this bandwagon until we learn more about this herbal method of heartworm prevention, but it is exciting to think that perhaps some day in the not too distant future we may have a more natural alternative to keep our pets safe from heartworms.
Heather K, CPNA
Everyone agrees on the method these nasty worms infect our dogs, cats and even ferrets. In a nutshell, our pet gets bitten by a mosquito that has all ready bitten an infected animal and passes on the larval stage of the worm through its saliva which is deposited near the bite. The larva swims through the saliva to the bite hours later. From there, the larvae gets into the bloodstream where it matures in about six months and becomes the critter we call a heartworm. As the heartworm matures it migrates to the arteries of the lungs and the right side of the heart. If left untreated, our pet could die.
Everyone also agrees that prevention is the key in this awful disease. But how to do so is where the controversy begins. We pet owners are all familiar with the monthly preventatives that our vet sells us like Heartgard, but I was very surprised to learn that there is another group of people that would like us to be more aware that there is a more natural method that exists to prevent heartworm disease in our pets. These individuals, mainly holistic-minded people, believe that using a safer gentler herbal mixture is much better for the long-term health of our animals. Most of the websites I visited in regards to “natural” heartworm prevention, however, differed on exactly which herbs were the best to get the job done. I’m not suggesting that we all jump on this bandwagon until we learn more about this herbal method of heartworm prevention, but it is exciting to think that perhaps some day in the not too distant future we may have a more natural alternative to keep our pets safe from heartworms.
Heather K, CPNA
Kitty Potty Problems
What do you do when your cat stops using the litter box? While there is no definite solution, there are many things that you can try.
First, get your cat to the vet to make sure that there is not an underlying medical reason for this. Young, neutered male cats run the highest risk of developing urinary tract problems, though they can occur in a cat of any age and gender. If a medical condition is ruled out, it is most likely a behavioral issue. Are there any changes that have taken place in your household, that could potentially be a factor in causing your cat to act out? Whether or not there is an explanation that you can figure out and address, there are products out there designed to help solve the problem.
Urine Off and Nature's Miracle are just some of the many available enzyme-based stain and odor removers. When used as directed, the spot(s) in which your cat has gone potty should be completely cleaned, without leaving a trace of anything for the cat to smell and go back to.
Dr. Elsey's Cat Attract litter is formulated with a natural herb attractant that is designed to draw a cat to their cat box when they need to relieve them self. There is also the option of trying Dr. Elsey's Cat Attract Litter Additive, which works the same way when added to the litter that your cat is already familiar with. However, you can only use the additive with unscented clay litter.
Some other tips to try: remove the hood on a hooded litter box. Clean the litter box often, preferably daily. Do not have food and/or water dishes near the litter box. Don't abruptly change the litter that your cat is familiar with.
There is usually a reason why a cat stops using their litter box. It is up to you, as their committed caretaker, to do and try everything in your power to correct this problem. Dumping the cat off at a shelter, or putting the cat down, should be the absolute LAST option, if it's even an option at all.
Staci V, CPNA
First, get your cat to the vet to make sure that there is not an underlying medical reason for this. Young, neutered male cats run the highest risk of developing urinary tract problems, though they can occur in a cat of any age and gender. If a medical condition is ruled out, it is most likely a behavioral issue. Are there any changes that have taken place in your household, that could potentially be a factor in causing your cat to act out? Whether or not there is an explanation that you can figure out and address, there are products out there designed to help solve the problem.
Urine Off and Nature's Miracle are just some of the many available enzyme-based stain and odor removers. When used as directed, the spot(s) in which your cat has gone potty should be completely cleaned, without leaving a trace of anything for the cat to smell and go back to.
Dr. Elsey's Cat Attract litter is formulated with a natural herb attractant that is designed to draw a cat to their cat box when they need to relieve them self. There is also the option of trying Dr. Elsey's Cat Attract Litter Additive, which works the same way when added to the litter that your cat is already familiar with. However, you can only use the additive with unscented clay litter.
Some other tips to try: remove the hood on a hooded litter box. Clean the litter box often, preferably daily. Do not have food and/or water dishes near the litter box. Don't abruptly change the litter that your cat is familiar with.
There is usually a reason why a cat stops using their litter box. It is up to you, as their committed caretaker, to do and try everything in your power to correct this problem. Dumping the cat off at a shelter, or putting the cat down, should be the absolute LAST option, if it's even an option at all.
Staci V, CPNA
A Life Saver
My friend's dog, a handsome black and white English Springer Spaniel named Duke, loves squirrels. Not love like, "Awwww....what a cute squirrel! Can we go say hi to it, please?", but love like "Squirrel! I need to go eat the squirrel!". Normally a relatively well behaved dog, in his "oblivious to anything but the fuzzy squirrel" frenzy, he will literally pull my arm out of its socket to reach said squirrel. Since I like to walk Duke where apparently there is the highest concentration of squirrels per acre anywhere in the United States of America, I very quickly grew tired of having my arm nearly torn off or, just as much fun, being dragged face first into the oak tree that the petrified squirrel dashed up a split second before we reached it. Something had to be done.
With the numerous training tools available to someone working at a pet store, I choose to try the Sporn halter. The Sporn halter works like this; the dog pulls forward, tightening the leash, and two nylon cord restraints that are underneath the dogs front legs will apply pressure underneath the dogs "armpits", for lack of a better word. I sized the Sporn halter to fit Duke and put it on right before our walk. He didn't seem to mind; he was too busy looking out for his favorite rodent. We began our walk with me anxiously watching out for squirrels. I doubted somewhat that the halter could stop the squirrel chasing fiend especially if he had the opportunity to pick up speed.
Finally, a squirrel crossed our path and I braced myself expecting the worst. Duke spotted the squirrel immediately and lunged forward. He hit the end of the leash and let out a startled yelp. The surprised look on his face was priceless. I called him to me, consoled him a bit, and then continued on our way. He still leaned into the harness a bit when the squirrels taunted him, but gone was the arm breaking, back wrenching, "I'm gonna need to visit the chiropractor" lunging. I was very impressed...and happy! I had often recommended the Sporn halter before, but after seeing how well it worked for Duke, I recommend it with gusto!
Heather K, CPNA
With the numerous training tools available to someone working at a pet store, I choose to try the Sporn halter. The Sporn halter works like this; the dog pulls forward, tightening the leash, and two nylon cord restraints that are underneath the dogs front legs will apply pressure underneath the dogs "armpits", for lack of a better word. I sized the Sporn halter to fit Duke and put it on right before our walk. He didn't seem to mind; he was too busy looking out for his favorite rodent. We began our walk with me anxiously watching out for squirrels. I doubted somewhat that the halter could stop the squirrel chasing fiend especially if he had the opportunity to pick up speed.
Finally, a squirrel crossed our path and I braced myself expecting the worst. Duke spotted the squirrel immediately and lunged forward. He hit the end of the leash and let out a startled yelp. The surprised look on his face was priceless. I called him to me, consoled him a bit, and then continued on our way. He still leaned into the harness a bit when the squirrels taunted him, but gone was the arm breaking, back wrenching, "I'm gonna need to visit the chiropractor" lunging. I was very impressed...and happy! I had often recommended the Sporn halter before, but after seeing how well it worked for Duke, I recommend it with gusto!
Heather K, CPNA
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Summer Travel
Over the river and through the woods……It doesn’t matter whose house you are going to, your dog wants to come too! With summer travel and ‘Take your dog to work day’ this month, I thought I should share some travel tips to make your errands or holiday more fun for 2 and 4 legged family members.
1. First Foray or Vacation Veteran? Get your pet used to all types of travel with several small trips in and around town before you attempt a 3-day cross country jaunt. Pets react in different ways and knowing your pets’ travel preferences will save a lot of grief for all of you when you are on a schedule.
2. It should go without saying, but I feel I must, DO NOT LEAVE YOUR DOG IN THE CAR ALONE for more than 10 minutes! Hot or cold, your pet is not accustomed to temperature extremes, and adding that to the stress of travel and separation while you “Just run in for a minute” is often too much for our furry companions.
3. Kennel or buckle your family members! Pets are helpless in an accident. Having them in a kennel or buckled with a special harness into the seat belt (any Pet Supplies “Plus” has them) will keep an accident from turning into a tragedy.
4. Identification Please! Make sure to keep tags on all of your pets, but this becomes even more important when traveling! Under stress, the most obedient pet can slip out of a kennel or car door and run out into unfamiliar territory. Also, it’s a good idea to keep copies of their vet records along for emergencies!
5. Make sure you maintain regular flea/tick and heartworm preventative. I have found that parasite populations change dramatically in different areas and you don’t want to bring home extra pests along with your dirty laundry
1. First Foray or Vacation Veteran? Get your pet used to all types of travel with several small trips in and around town before you attempt a 3-day cross country jaunt. Pets react in different ways and knowing your pets’ travel preferences will save a lot of grief for all of you when you are on a schedule.
2. It should go without saying, but I feel I must, DO NOT LEAVE YOUR DOG IN THE CAR ALONE for more than 10 minutes! Hot or cold, your pet is not accustomed to temperature extremes, and adding that to the stress of travel and separation while you “Just run in for a minute” is often too much for our furry companions.
3. Kennel or buckle your family members! Pets are helpless in an accident. Having them in a kennel or buckled with a special harness into the seat belt (any Pet Supplies “Plus” has them) will keep an accident from turning into a tragedy.
4. Identification Please! Make sure to keep tags on all of your pets, but this becomes even more important when traveling! Under stress, the most obedient pet can slip out of a kennel or car door and run out into unfamiliar territory. Also, it’s a good idea to keep copies of their vet records along for emergencies!
5. Make sure you maintain regular flea/tick and heartworm preventative. I have found that parasite populations change dramatically in different areas and you don’t want to bring home extra pests along with your dirty laundry
4 Pet Myths Busted
As a CPNA (Certified Pet Nutrition Advisor) and pet professional for 12 years, I am amazed with the amount of misinformation that caring pet parents receive! I have decided to debunk 4 of those myths.
Whatever else you do…
1. Don’t assume that because a dog is wagging his tail, that he will not bite you! A wagging tail can be a sign of happiness, but needs to be taken in context with other body language and behavior. People laugh for various reasons, out of anxiety, fear, or even pain. Same goes with the dogs’ tail. Always use caution when approaching a dog you are not familiar with and teach children to do the same.
2. This ties in to… Cat’s purr because they are happy. Many experts agree purring is more of an expression of emotion, than the exact emotion of happiness. Cats have been known to purr when in pain, while giving birth, even while dying. I even had a cat that would always purr just before he would try to bite me (one of his favorite games). Once again, look for body language and situational clues to determine your pet’s true communication.
3. Spaying and neutering your pet makes them fat. Not necessarily!!!!! Although there is a legitimate decreases in caloric needs (as much as 25%), there are other things that need to be considered in determining a pet’s daily calorie consumption needs. Activity level being the greatest, but current and ideal weight will also need to be part of the equation! Stop by a Pet Supplies Plus store and ask to speak to a CPNA (Certified Pet Nutrition Advisor), they can do a body condition score as well as ‘do the math’ to determine the correct calorie range for your individual pet. And remember, no 2 pets are identical in their metabolism or nutritional needs.
4. A dog that ‘scoots’ his rear along the ground has worms. He might, or he might not. A dirty hind end, full anal sacs and itchy behinds (usually from fleas or allergies) are more often the culprit(s).
I hope you share this info with friends and help do all we can to debunk these myths from the pet community. Stay tuned for more myth-busting in the future!
Whatever else you do…
1. Don’t assume that because a dog is wagging his tail, that he will not bite you! A wagging tail can be a sign of happiness, but needs to be taken in context with other body language and behavior. People laugh for various reasons, out of anxiety, fear, or even pain. Same goes with the dogs’ tail. Always use caution when approaching a dog you are not familiar with and teach children to do the same.
2. This ties in to… Cat’s purr because they are happy. Many experts agree purring is more of an expression of emotion, than the exact emotion of happiness. Cats have been known to purr when in pain, while giving birth, even while dying. I even had a cat that would always purr just before he would try to bite me (one of his favorite games). Once again, look for body language and situational clues to determine your pet’s true communication.
3. Spaying and neutering your pet makes them fat. Not necessarily!!!!! Although there is a legitimate decreases in caloric needs (as much as 25%), there are other things that need to be considered in determining a pet’s daily calorie consumption needs. Activity level being the greatest, but current and ideal weight will also need to be part of the equation! Stop by a Pet Supplies Plus store and ask to speak to a CPNA (Certified Pet Nutrition Advisor), they can do a body condition score as well as ‘do the math’ to determine the correct calorie range for your individual pet. And remember, no 2 pets are identical in their metabolism or nutritional needs.
4. A dog that ‘scoots’ his rear along the ground has worms. He might, or he might not. A dirty hind end, full anal sacs and itchy behinds (usually from fleas or allergies) are more often the culprit(s).
I hope you share this info with friends and help do all we can to debunk these myths from the pet community. Stay tuned for more myth-busting in the future!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)