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07/06/2021

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05/05/2021

Spring Is In The Air, And It’s Giving Your Dog A Fever… Spring Fever!

As the weather warms up, lots of dog owners notice a change in their pup’s behavior. Some dogs might become more energetic; others may grow uncharacteristically agitated. For humans, this change in behavior is often referred to as…SPRING FEVER (dun, dun, DUNN).

But can a change in season really change the way your pup acts? Well, if you think about it, for humans, the arrival of spring is simultaneously exhilarating and confusing. After all, even after it warms up, it can be hard to leave your layers at home in good conscience (wait, so you’re telling me I don’t need my scarf and gloves and hat? Are you sure?!).

Source :https://barkpost.com/discover/can-your-dog-get-spring-fever/

11/02/2021

About Pets & People

There are many health benefits of owning a pet. They can increase opportunities to exercise, get outside, and socialize. Regular walking or playing with pets can decrease blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and triglyceride levels. Pets can help manage loneliness and depression by giving us companionship. Most households in the United States have at least one pet.
Studies have shown that the bond between people and their pets can increase fitness, lower stress, and bring happiness to their owners. Some of the health benefits of having a pet include:

Decreased blood pressure
Decreased cholesterol levels
Decreased triglyceride levels
Decreased feelings of loneliness
Increased opportunities for exercise and outdoor activities
Increased opportunities for socialization

However, pets can sometimes carry harmful germs that can make us sick even when the pet appears healthy. The diseases people get from animals are called zoonotic (zoe-oh-NOT-ic) diseases. Below are some tips to help you and your family stay healthy while enjoying pets.
Resource: https://www.cdc.gov/healthypets/health-benefits/index.html

24/01/2021

12/01/2021

11/01/2021

Angry Cat...

09/01/2021

How Can I Prevent Winter Health Risks to My Dog?

The two most serious risks for dogs during the winter are frostbite and hypothermia.

Frostbite. Frostbite begins when the dog’s body gets cold. The body pulls blood from the extremities to the center of the body to stay warm. The dog’s ears, paws or tail can get so cold that ice crystals will form in the tissue and damage it. Frostbite is not immediately obvious. Watch for signs of pale or grey skin as the skin may also turn hard and cold. As frostbitten areas warm, they can be extremely painful. Severely frostbitten skin will eventually turn black and fall off.

Hypothermia. The other very serious winter weather health concern for dogs is hypothermia. Hypothermia occurs when a dog spends too much time in the cold, gets wet in cold temperatures or when dogs with poor health or circulation are exposed to cold. In mild cases, the dog will shiver and ears and feet will become cold. As hypothermia progresses, your dog may show signs of depression, lethargy, and weakness. As the condition worsens, the muscles will stiffen, the heart and breathing rates slow down, and will not respond to stimuli. Severe hypothermia is life-threatening.

se hot surfaces.

Moisturize.Your home’s furnace or central air system emits dry heat. This low humidity environment can rob your dog’s skin of necessary moisture, which results in dry, flaky, and sensitive skin. while it is true that your dog’s body continually replaces the layer of damaged skin, however, if left unmanaged, the condition will continue throughout the winter. Damaged skin and your dog’s relentless scratching to relieve her itch can open the door for more serious skin problems.

Do not overfeed. Although dogs may need an extra layer in winter, it should come from the coat and not a layer of fat. Cold temperatures may even bring on lazy behavior and the need for fewer calories. Be attentive to your dog’s activity level and adjust his calories accordingly. A high quality, whole foods, preferably meat-based diet will help ensure a healthy coat and good energy for the cold winter months.

Paw care. Dogs can also suffer from cracked pads just as we can suffer from cracked feet during the winter months. If your dog has furry feet, trim the hair that grows between his pads to prevent ice buildup between the pads. Winter salt on city sidewalks can also burn your dog’s pads and is toxic, so after walks around the neighborhood, rinse or wipe your dog’s paws to remove any salt. If your dog shows signs of discomfort when walking outside on frozen or salted surfaces, consider using dog booties to protect his paws.

Snow removal. Snow can be dangerous for your dog. Snow piled near fences offers your dog escape routes that even well-trained dogs often cannot resist. After clearing snow from your yard, pile it away from fences to prevent your dog from climbing over. Snow and ice often accumulate on rooftops and if the sun is out or as temperatures rise, this accumulation can slide and injure your dog. If you cannot clear the snow from the roof, keep your dog away from the roof overhang to prevent injury.

Never leave your dog unattended in the car, no matter the season. Just as cars can get dangerously hot in summer, freezing cold temperatures are equally dangerous for your dog in winter. Leaving the car running involves additional risks, including carbon monoxide poisoning if the car is parked in a garage. It is best to leave your dog at home when you go out to run errands.

Special care for seniors. Cold weather will often aggravate existing medical conditions in dogs, particularly arthritis. It is very important to maintain an exercise routine with your arthritic dog, but be mindful of slippery surfaces and make sure that your dog has a warm soft rest area to recuperate after activity. If you do not already give your senior dog a natural joint supplement to lubricate the joints and ease the discomfort of arthritis, you may want to talk to your vet about adding glucosamine and chondroitin to your dog’s senior diet.

Harsh winter weather brings a wide variety of concerns to responsible dog owners. Bitter cold, numbing wetness or biting winds can cause discomfort for your dog. As one of the family, it is important to keep your dog warm, dry and healthy during the winter months. Should you have questions about providing extra care for your dog this winter, contact the Alliance of Therapy Dogs.

Source: https://www.therapydogs.com/dog-care-winter-months/

04/01/2021

The Myth of the Unadoptable Horse

In today’s equine rescue world there seems to be a widely accepted belief that a large number of horses currently living in rescue groups or sanctuaries are unadoptable. Often these horses live the rest of their lives on the property and on the dime of the non-profit and their donor base. In theory this sounds like a lovely story, but is it really the most impactful way we can help at-risk horses? The extended length of stay of an “unadoptable” horse takes up a space that could have saved the lives of countless “adoptable” horses had they had a safe place to land. By adopting out a sanctuary horse, you are giving that particular horse the chance to be loved and cared for by a new owner while simultaneously opening the door to countless other horses needing help and care. So does it really make sense to support one at-risk horse for multiple years with the same donor dollars that could have placed dozens in new homes in that same time frame? Instead, why don’t we consider examining why these horses were labeled “unadoptable” in the first place?

Common reasons for a horse being deemed unadoptable range from lameness issues, health problems, temperament problems or they are just plain old. Rescue groups/adoption agencies often give them the use of a paddock, lifelong healthcare and feed for as long as these horses will live. But, is it really necessary? If a horse is capable of living a quality life at a sanctuary, then why would it not be capable of doing the same in a private home? In fact, wouldn’t it be better for a horse with more advanced needs to be loved by a family in an adoptive home where it can receive individual attention?

First, let’s examine what an adoptable horse looks like. The definition of adoptable is a horse that is suitable or eligible for adoption. Generally, a horse is considered suitable for adoption if it has relatively safe ground manners (not dangerous to humans), and is healthy enough to live without suffering. These two factors are what delineates an adoptable horse vs. unadoptable. Is the horse likely to hurt someone on the ground and training efforts have failed to eliminate dangerous behavior? Is the horse going to suffer? The truth is, if either of these things are true about the horse, then the horse becomes a euthanasia candidate.

Veterinarians must always be involved in the euthanasia conversation. The American Association of Equine Practitioners has publicly posted widely accepted criteria for euthanasia to help guide equine veterinarians when making a euthanasia decision. The decision comes down to unmanageable pain and suffering. If a horse is so unhealthy that it is experiences ongoing suffering then it should not be in a sanctuary. Rather, the horse should be granted a humane ending. The decision whether and when to euthanize should always be made under the guidance of an equine veterinarian.

The good news is most sanctuaries in the United States are not filled with horses that are dangerous to people or live in a state of unmanageable suffering. In fact, most horses in organizations that are labeled unadoptable are simply old, not trained, have some manageable health issues or not able to be ridden.

Let’s go ahead and dispel some of the myths surrounding the mislabeled “unadoptable” horses. The untrained horses simply need some training to become adoption candidates. Old horses are not easy to adopt but they can be adopted, and therefore should be adoptable. What about the horses that have some health issues that make them ineligible for riding? Sometimes equine advocates can feel like an adopter couldn’t take care of a horse’s special needs. In fact, often these assumptions are wrong. There are adoption groups that have experienced great success placing special needs horses and companion horses. I’m not saying it is easy; but with creative marketing and a positive adoption philosophy it can definitely be done. There are adopters out there that are capable and willing to take on special needs horses. There are even some who enjoy providing extra care and feel fulfilled by providing a great home to a horse in need. Check out two ASPCA Pro webinars for great ideas and tips here and here.

In addition to benefiting individual horses, shifting to find homes for previously-deemed “unadoptable” horses opens up a whole new world for organizations. Let’s take a look at a rescue called Horses’ Haven. This fantastic adoption group in Howell, Michigan was established in 1995. This group truly identified itself as a sanctuary since inception. In 2015, they had approximately 70 horses in their care; 50 were considered sanctuary horses. They did under five adoptions a year and their 70-capacity barn was completely filled with “unadoptable” sanctuary horses. Then, something changed. They no longer wanted to say no to all the requests to help horses; but they were forced to say no as they had no space. In 2016, they decided to develop a strategy to move the sanctuary horses out of their rescue so they could begin to say yes again. Flash forward to one year later and they increased their adoptions to 36 horses! Each and every one of those horses adopted was originally considered unadoptable. How did they do it? They focused on training the horses and seeking out adopters that would tolerate some special needs. The board of directors no longer believed in the notion that sanctuary was the best place for the horses. They began to understand that if they placed these horses they could exponentially increase the number of horses they were able to help each year. The sanctuary became a legitimate and strong adoption program.

Another organization that is helping to dispel the myth of the unadoptable horse is the New Mexico Horse Rescue. In June of 2019, they placed a horse named Strawberry into a new home. What was special about Strawberry was she had been at their barn for eight years. She was a shy and introverted horse considered virtually unadoptable. However, with an increased effort by volunteers and staff to socialize and train her, suddenly her future was very bright. She even gained enough confidence to become a lesson horse in her adoptive home. Strawberry was not the only one. New Mexico Horse Rescue made a concerted effort to focus on their long timers and guess what…they placed many of them! It simply took their staff and volunteers deciding that these horses were valuable and adoptable.

Now what if half of the current sanctuaries in the U.S. did something similar in their programs? What if they decided to get creative, train the untrained, find the companion homes, change their own perspective? I’ll tell you what would happen; we would have the twice the capacity in this country to assist at-risk horses. We could help twice as many horses. In a world where adoption is one of the last considered options for acquiring a horse, don’t we need to be promoting the adoptability of ALL of our horses? If we ourselves are claiming that so many of our horse in care are unadoptable or sanctuary horses, aren’t we just re-affirming the public’s belief that we aren’t the place to go to get a horse? Instead, let’s take a long hard look at the horses in our care and really consider if they indeed are adoptable. Once we look at our own horses as adoptable, it is much easier to convince the public they should adopt them.

Source: therighthorse.org

27/12/2020

20/12/2020

How to Care for a Pet Rabbit

Rabbits are unique pets. They have specific needs in order to live a long, happy and healthy life. Here is a basic overview on how to care for a pet rabbit:

Step 1: Set Up Safe Indoor Housing

Rabbits inside playingThere are several options to house rabbits inside. They can live free-reign in a bunny proofed room/rooms, or they can be contained within a puppy pen, bunny condo, or large rabbit cage. If contained, their space should always be large enough so they can hop around, and they should be let out of their pen for at least a few hours everyday for exercise.

Make sure the primary location of your rabbit is not isolated from you and your family. A family room or living room is a good place. Learn more about indoor rabbit housing at Housing Your Pet Rabbit Indoors.

Step 2: Bunny Proof Your House

Wire coverRabbits need space to run around and explore. In order to create a safe space for your bunny and to protect your belongings, you will need to thoroughly bunny proof the area. This includes covering all wires with plastic sleeves or flex tubing, or lifting them 3-4 feet out of reach of your rabbit.

If you don’t want your baseboards gnawed, you can cover them with plastic guards, 2x4s or furring strips. You’ll also have to block off certain areas since rabbits like to chew the undersides of beds, items on bookshelves, house plants, and more. Basically, your rabbit will try to chew everything in reach. Learn more at Bunny Proofing Your House.

Step 3: Provide Fresh Hay

Rabbit eating hayA rabbit’s diet should mainly consist of hay. Fresh hay should be provided to rabbits at all times. Baby rabbits should be given alfalfa, and adult rabbits should be fed timothy hay, grass hay, or oat hay.

Using a large hay feeder is helpful because it keeps large amounts of hay dry, clean, and accessible. Learn more about the importance of hay and where to buy it at Hay for Rabbits: The Basis for a Healthy Diet.

Step 4: Provide Fresh Greens, Fiber-rich Pellets, and Fresh Water

Rabbit eating greensSupplement your rabbit’s hay with fresh vegetables, fiber-rich pellets (in limited quantities for adult rabbits), and fresh water daily. You can learn more about what kinds of food to feed your bunny at What to Feed Your Pet Rabbit.

You can also learn about growing many of your rabbit’s favorite vegetables at Bunny Gardening for Beginners.

Step 5: Set Up a Litter Box

Rabbit in litter boxRabbits have a natural inclination to p**p and p*e in one area. Take advantage of this by setting up a medium-sized cat litter box or shallow storage bin near their food/water bowls and hay feeder.

Put a thin layer of rabbit-safe, recycled newspaper pellet litter at the bottom of the litter box. Do not use clay/clumping cat litter or wood shavings, as they are not safe for rabbits. Then put hay on top of the litter. Rabbits like to eat hay and p**p at the same time, so this will encourage good litter box habits. Learn more at Litter Training Your Pet Rabbit.

Step 6: Provide Enrichment

Rabbit in cardboard castleRabbits can get bored easily. Not only do they need space to exercise, they also need mental stimulation. Cardboard castles are great because rabbits spend hours chewing new windows and doorways. Cardboard castles also provide a quiet refuge for the rabbit when necessary. Learn more at Building a Cardboard Castle for Your Bunny.

You can also provide a variety of toys for your rabbit to pique his or her interest. Learn more at Enrichment for Your Pet Bunny, Logic Toys for Rabbits, and Playing with Your Pet Bunny.

Step 7: Groom Your Rabbit

Rabbit's nailsRabbits are naturally clean animals and wash themselves frequently. But you still need to groom your rabbit on a regular basis. Rabbits go through shedding cycles a couple times a year. It’s important to brush your rabbit to remove all the excess fur. Otherwise, your rabbit could ingest it and have serious digestive issues. Learn more about keeping your rabbit looking and feeling sharp in our article, Grooming Your House Rabbit.

Regular nail clipping is also important because long nails can get snagged on things or they can curl into your rabbit’s paw. Learn how to clip your rabbit’s nails yourself at Clipping Your Rabbit’s Nails.

Step 8: Bring Your Rabbit to a Rabbit-Savvy Vet

Veterinarian with rabbitRabbits are prey animals, and so their natural instinct is to hide any symptoms of illness. You must keep a watchful eye to ensure your rabbit is eating, drinking, p**ping, and p*eing regularly. If you notice any change in behavior, it is important to call a rabbit-savvy vet immediately. Learn about common rabbit diseases to look out for at our Rabbit Health section.

In addition to responding to illness, it is also essential to bring your rabbit in for regular veterinary checkups. The vet can check the ears, eyes, teeth, and gut to make sure the rabbit is in good health. Finally, consider spaying or neutering your rabbit. Spaying/neutering can reduce aggressive behavior, improve litter box habits, and improve a rabbit’s overall health. Learn more at Spaying or Neutering Your Pet Bunny.

Step 9: Understand Rabbits’ Unique Language and Behavior

Sleeping rabbitPet rabbits are different from cats and dogs. It’s essential to understand how rabbits think so you and your rabbit can live a happy life together. Learn about their unique language at Binkies, Nose Bonks and Flops: Rabbit Behavior Explained and demystify unfavorable rabbit behavior by reading Help! My Rabbit Hates Me!. By catering to your rabbit’s natural inclinations, you can build a trusting, loving relationship with your bunny. See Building a Relationship with Your Rabbit for more information.

Now that you have a good overview of how to care for a pet rabbit, you can visit our Rabbit Care, Rabbit Behavior, and Rabbit Health sections for more information.

Source : https://myhouserabbit.com/rabbit-care/care-pet-rabbit/

10/12/2020

What you need to know about your cats and coronavirus?

Cases of cats acquiring coronavirus are rare—and there is no evidence the disease could spread from pets to humans.

Two house cats in New York State are the first in the U.S. to test positive for the coronavirus that causes COVID-19, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced on April 22. The owner of one of the cats had been diagnosed with the disease, but no one in the household of the second cat had tested positive, so it’s not yet known how the cat contracted the virus. Both cats had mild respiratory symptoms and are expected to recover.

Experts say it’s important to know that cases of pet cats acquiring coronavirus are very rare: In the world, there are only three confirmed cases of domestic cats (and two confirmed cases of dogs) getting sick. The CDC says there is no evidence at this time that the disease could spread in the opposite direction—from pets to humans.

“This is almost exclusively a human-to-human transmitted disease,” Michael San Filippo, a spokesperson for the American Veterinary Medicine Association, told NBC affiliates. “The risk to pets is very low, with only a handful of cases of the virus appearing in companion animals, and no cases of people getting sick from their pets.” (Many other human illnesses, including the common cold, do not pose threats to pets because they’re caused by species-specific viruses that are unable to infect other animals.

source:National Geographic

10/12/2020

Tips For Having A Dog In A Big City

If you live in a big city, such as New York, Chicago, Houston or any of the other major metro areas in the U.S., you may wonder if it’s even possible to have a dog. Whether you’re relocating to a big city and you want to bring your current dog along, or you already live in an urban area, but you’d like to have a dog, there are certain things to consider, but it can certainly be possible.

The following are some tips that can make it easier to have a dog in a big city.

Use a Dog-Walking Service
First and foremost, if you live in a suburban or rural area, it’s very likely that you have an outdoor space that’s fenced in and can contain your dog. Many people in the suburbs make it so that their pet can come and go as they please throughout the day.

However, if you live in an apartment or condo in an urban area, this probably isn’t an option. You can now hire on-demand dog walkers with services like Wag!, and they can take your pup out for exercise during the day when you aren’t home.

This can be a valuable service to make your life easier, and also make big city life more conducive to having a dog.

Socialization and Training
When your dog lives in a big city, socialization and training are extremely important. Your dog is likely going to be coming in contact with other people and pets all the time in a big city. You live close to other people and their pets, and you aren’t going to do well if you have a dog who isn’t comfortable in these situations. For example, if your dog is lunging every time you get in your building’s elevator, it can be a problem.

If possible, start with puppy classes. Even if your dog is no longer a puppy, you can still do training. It’s a good idea to focus training on the basics of obedience, but also how to walk well on a leash. You should also socialize your dog so that they’re comfortable with being around other pets on sidewalks, trails and in parks.

Housetraining Logistics
If you have a new puppy, housetraining in a big city can be difficult, especially if you live in an apartment. You’re not likely going to be able to make it all the way to the ground floor each time your puppy needs to relieve itself.

You may find that it’s best to designate a spot in the house where your dog can go potty if making it outside isn’t an option. Housetraining pads can work, and some pet owners even use the shower to train their puppy.

Finally, try to make sure you choose the right neighborhood if you’re making a move. In any big city, some neighborhoods are going to be more pet-friendly than others. You want to look for a neighborhood where there seem to be a lot of other dogs, and dog-friendly facilities including parks and restaurants with dog-friendly patios.

Source : feedster.com

05/12/2020

Personality and Dignity !

05/12/2020

Who's the best ?

04/12/2020

Man's best friend!