Helpful Articles
Helpful Articles (27)
You may be surprised at what you find on this list, which is just an example of the many items cats should stay away from.
- Alcoholic beverages can cause intoxication, coma, and death.
- Baby food contains onion powder which can be toxic.
- Bones from fish, poultry, and other meat sources can cause obstruction or laceration of the digestive system.
- Grapes and raisins can damage the kidneys.
- Fat trimmings can cause pancreatitis.
- Caffeine (soda, tea, chocolate) can be toxic and affect the heart and nervous system.
- Canned tuna in large amounts can cause malnutrition, since it lacks proper vitamins and minerals.
- Dog food, if fed repeatedly, may result in malnutrition and diseases affecting the heart.
- Milk and other dairy products can cause diarrhea.
- Onion and garlic can cause anemia.
- Raw fish can result in thiamine deficiency leading to seizures.
- Tobacco affects their digestive and nervous systems and can result in a rapid heart beat, collapse, coma and death.
- Potato and tomato stems contain oxalates, which can affect the digestive, nervous, and urinary systems.
- Mushrooms can contain toxins, which affect multiple systems in the body cause shock and result in death.
- Cats are attracted to the smell of avocados, but they contain a fatty acid that will attack cats, which will cause them to have difficulty breathing.
There are many types of cat food and treats to meet the needs of your cat’s diet. NCHS urges cat owners to talk with their veterinarian about what is best for their cat. If your cat ingests any of the above items, contact your veterinarian immediately or call the National Animal Poison Center at 888-252-7387
Does Your Community Have A Pro-Humane Shelter? Why Not?
Written by AdministratorEvery year, countless numbers of animals are quietly euthanized at county animal control facilities. Few citizens know that when they call about a stray animal theyve found, animal control has no choice but to send that animal to a central facility that is overwhelmed with dogs and cats. That was the situation in San Clemente and Dana Point, until a few unassuming citizens worried about a stray dogs plight. Looking for help for medical bills and hoping to find like-minded individuals…a simple ad in a local paper became the spearhead for animal advocates to band together and form a volunteer group to help the abandoned and lost animals in their community. A converted skating rink was a starting point in 1983. Through hard work, fundraising and a strong pro humane philosophy, the San Clemente/Dana Point Animal Shelter was constructed and opened in 1996. That group of volunteers, now know as Pet Project Foundation, Inc. made the difference in their communities…you can too.
If you do not have an animal shelter in your city, find out why. Check with neighboring cities that are operating a pro humane facility and ask questions. Almost all shelters have an active volunteer force that is organized and can offer a wealth of knowledge. Funding is available in a variety of sources, a favorite sounce being Maddies Fund. (www.maddiesfund.org). Visit local shelters and ask for a tour. You will find plenty of volunteer organizations eager to help you and your group be an advocate in creating a proper home for your cities abandoned animals. In San Clemente and Dana Point, the volunteer group works in partnership with CASA (Coastal Animal Services Authority), the city arm of the shelter operations. CASA handles the Animal Control services, licensing and management, while the volunteer group supplies funding for medical, food, training, beds, toys, treats and hands on nurturing.
Be a animal champion in your community! Develop a Mission Focus, build a Strong Relationship between your volunteer group and the city, have a Plan for growth and orientation, be Flexible in your pursuit of the Mission and Celebrate Success early on and on an ongoing basis!
The Pet Project Foundation continues to explore new and exciting opportunities to educate the public on pet overpopulation and its consequences. We are also proactively seeking new and exciting ways to expand our facility, allowing all pet loving citizens to learn about the care and training of healthy, happy animals.
Valerie Treaster, Chairman of the Board
Pet Project Foundation, Inc.
www.petprojectfoundation.org
The dog days of summer are approaching and you can tell by the sparkle in Fido’s eyes
that he can’t wait to get outside in the sun to run, swim, hike, and enjoy all the other
great outdoor activities. Before you grab Fido’s leash and head outside there are a few
things for you to think about to keep your dog safe while you two are having fun in the
sun.
Heat Safety-
Dogs aren't as efficient at cooling down as humans are, since they release most of their
body heat through the pads of their feet and by panting. This makes them more
susceptible to heatstroke. Some ways to avoid over heating is to:
Exercise in the early mornings or at dusk and not during the hottest part of the day.
Keep in mind that asphalt gets very hot and can burn your pet's paws. We have several
items such as Visiglo light up collars and leashes and a Spotlit L.E.D. light for Fido’s
collar to keep you and your dog safe when you are out at night.
Dogs with medium and long hair should be well-groomed in the summer. Long or thick
hair can become tangled and matted and will trap the heat. Regular use of the
FURminator Deshedding Tool can remove tremendous amounts of undercoat fur and
keep Fido light and cool.
Dogs can get sunburned just like us, especially dogs with thin or light coats and pink
skin. If you are going to be spending time outside with your dog you should apply
sunscreen to his nose and ears before you head out. Try Flea the Scene an insect
spray with an all-natural sunscreen.
Be sure your dog always has access to fresh cool water. Remember that water will
vaporize on extremely hot days so refill your dogs outside water bowl through out the
day. When you are on the go with Fido bring a collapsible Travel Bowl or a Pet Top (a
top that allows your dog to drink from a water bottle) with you.
If your dog is going to be outside in the heat, keep him comfortable with the Cool-It
Bandana.
If your dog does become overheated you need to lower his body temperature
immediately. Move your dog to a cool place, out of the sun and give him water. Immerse
the dog in cool, not cold, water or very gently pour cool water on him. Place ice packs
on his head and neck and a fan in front of the dog. Once the dog has cooled down take
him to your vet.
Some signs of heatstroke include excessive panting, bright-red tongue and gums,
vomiting, wide eyes, thick saliva, diarrhea, lethargy, and body temperature of 104-110F
degrees.
Water Safety-
If you’re lucky, you and your dog will get to spend some time playing in the water,
whether it is a pool, lake or the ocean. Check out our selection of Water Toys and our
water-proof Rubber Collars that are perfect for the dog who never wants to get out of
the water. Even dogs who are good swimmers can get into trouble in the water. Make
sure your dog knows how to get out of the pool and never leave your dog unsupervised
around water. As an extra precaution, not every dog knows how to swim, for dogs who
are not great swimmers you can get them a Life Jacket. When you are getting out of
the ocean be sure to rinse Fido from head to tail, the salt and sand can be irritation to
their paws and ears. Always clean their ears after every swim, bath or rinse try our new
all-natural Ear Cleanser. Don’t forget to put sunscreen on your dog when he is out in
the sun; try our Flea the Scene insect spray and sunscreen.
Car Safety-
Most dogs love to go for rides in cars and we all love to take our dogs out with us, but
during the heat of the summer the car is not always the safest place for your dog.
You should never leave your dog unattended in a car. Even with windows cracked, and
even on an outwardly nice day, temperatures in a car can quickly rise to 20 degrees
above what the outside temperature is. If you will have to leave your dog in the car then
you should not bring the dog along with you on your outing.
Cracked windows do not provide sufficient air, but they do provide an opportunity for
someone to steal your pet or your car.
It might be fun and cute for the dog to sit in your lap. However, your dog is not safe in
this position and, in fact; you may endanger yourself and others if you are not able to
drive properly.
Just like we need to be safely secured in a car, so do our pets. They should travel in an
appropriately sized crate or be fasten in by a Harness Seat Belt.
Dogs who like to stick their head out of car windows need to be careful because there
are insects, gravel particles, and other flying debris that can cause eye injuries. If your
dog likes to stick his head out the window getting him a pair of Doggles is a great idea.
Not only will his eyes be protective from debris and UV rays Fido will be stylish in his
eyewear.
Pick –Up Trucks
There are many possible dangers for a dog riding in the back of an open pick-up, even if
it is only for a few blocks. When riding in the hot summer sun, dogs can become
overheated and suffer heatstroke. Insects, gravel particles, and other flying debris can
cause eye injuries, or lodge in the throat or nasal passages and cause serious
problems.
Sudden braking, swerving, or even hitting a pothole or bump in the road, can throw a
dog out of a truck. It is not a good idea to attach a dog's leash or chain to the inside of
an open pick-up truck. If a dog tries to jump out or is thrown from the truck, it could be
hanged or seriously injured by being dragged along the road before the driver ever
realizes what happened.
Never put a dog in a truck bed covered by a tarp or a metal or plastic shell made to fit
right over the bed. Temperatures inside will quickly become unbearable in warm
weather. Regardless of outdoor temperatures, a pet inside a covered truck bed without
ventilation can become a victim of carbon monoxide poisoning.
If your dog must ride in the back of a pick-up truck, the dog should be put in a covered
crate and securely fasten to the truck bed. Be sure to park in the shade and to provide
the dog with water.
Covering a pick up truck bed with a fiberglass shell that has screened windows that can
be opened for cross ventilation is a good way to safely transport pets in a pickup truck.
The shell provides protection in bad weather and it can be locked so no one else can
get to the dogs. Add blankets or a rubber bed liner for comfort and a secure crate for
longer trips.
If there's no room for your dog to ride in the cab with you, and you can't provide the
security of a camper shell or at least a secure crate for protection from the weather, you
should leave your dog safely at home.
Travel Safety-
What’s a family vacation with out your beloved dog? With more places allowing your to
bring your dog with you on trips there are some things to think about to keep Fido safe
on the journey.
When on a trip, it's tempting to skimp on the food and water to avoid extra pit stops.
While you do want to cut back a little, just for your dog's comfort while on the go, do
make sure your dog gets enough to drink or eat. If you are driving with a dog, you want
to plan for plenty of stops to let him out to walk around, use the bathroom (don’t forget
to carry Poop Bags) and to give him food and water. Check out our selection of
collapsible Travel Bowls and Travel Feedbags.
Even if your dog has never walked on a leash, a trip is no time to go free and easy. All it
takes is a cat darting into the highway to lure your dog to danger. Also, your dog (and
you) will be in a strange place, which will make it that much harder to find her if she gets
loose.
Sometimes even all the safety measures in the world are no match for a clever dog who
is determined to explore the new area he is visiting. Before your trip, get your dog a
properly fitting Collar and an ID Tag with plenty of contact information, we
recommended your cell phone number with area code so that you can be reached while
you are traveling.
Even thought a lot of small dogs can fly with their owners in the cabin of the plane, most
dogs have to fly in cargo with no climate controls. If you have to fly your dog you should
do it during the spring and fall when the temperature isn't too hot or cold.
Lawn Safety-
Before you go out and get your hands dirty working in your yard remember that the
same products that will make your lawn lush and green can also cause serious health
problems for your pets.
Contact with herbicides can cause vomiting, excess salivation, problems with the central
nervous system, and even sudden death. Before any lawn treatment is applied to your
yard remove all outdoor food and water bowls. Keep your pets inside while the
chemicals are being applied and keep them off the grass for at least 24 hours after the
application. If your dog does come into contact with the freshly treated lawn wash his
paws off immediately with soap and water.
Most Slug and Snail bait is highly poisonous to pets so be sure to read the labels before
you put any down in your yard. There are commercial bait traps or pellet holders that
you can use to keep the bait out of reach of pets.
Ingestion of mouse and rat poison is another danger. The poisons usually come in
cardboard containers filled with pellets. Some dogs will try to chew through the
cardboard to get into the bait so place them in spots where it will be out of reach for
your dog.
When you are done using your herbicides and pesticides be sure that the lids are
securely tighten on the bottles. It is a good idea to place bags or boxes, new and used,
inside of plastic storage containers and to make sure you properly dispose of empty
containers to keep them away from your pets as wells as little kids.
The ingredient in chocolate, Theobromine that causes it to be toxic to dogs is found in
more than just candy. Cocoa Mulch is made from cocoa bean shells and contains
potentially toxic quantities of Theobromine. Pet owners should not use cocoa bean
mulch in their yards, it smells like chocolate to the dogs and they may try to eat it.
Some dogs will try to catch or swat at bees. When a dog gets stung, it is usually around
the mouth, nose or on a front paw. Some signs that your dog has been stung are
scratching his head, rubbing his head on the ground, bumps or swelling around the
head, face, mouth, tongue, or paws, excessive salivation, or finding the stinger. If you
do find the stinger still in your dog, carefully remove it with tweezers and then apply a
cold compress to the spot. You can also apply a paste made from baking soda and
water to help relieve the area. Just like humans some dogs can be allergic to stings, if
your dog has a severe reaction, get him to a veterinarian immediately.
July 4th Safety-
Pets often become frightened and frantic by the noise and commotion of Independence
Day. In fact, animal shelters across the country are accustomed to receiving "July 4th"
dogs—dogs that run off during fireworks celebrations and are brought to the shelter.
Fortunately, preventing pet problems on Independence Day is possible by simply
planning ahead and taking some basic precautions.
Don’t leave your dogs outside; bring them inside for their protection. If this is not
possible, cover their crate with a blanket to offer them a little protection from the bright
flashes and loud bangs.
Keep windows and curtains closed to help reduce the noise and bright flashes of the
fireworks.
Some animals can become destructive when they are frightened, so be sure to remove
any thing that your pet could destroy or that could harm your pet if chewed.
Leave a television or radio playing at normal volume to keep him company while you're
attending Fourth of July celebrations.
Make sure your pets are wearing ID Tag so that if they do become lost, they can be
returned promptly. If you see any dogs running around they should be taken to your
local animal shelter so that they can be reunited with their owners.
Why Can’t Everyone Settle Down and Behave?
1. Trashing the place when you’re gone?
2. Old pets don’t like the new one?
3. Too hyper to listen? Too afraid? Too stubborn?
4. All of the above?
Don’t worry - permanent solutions are available - maybe as close as your own yard. Red Clover, Dandelion, Rose blossoms, and Oak Tree leaves can readily be made into Flower Essences that help pets with problematic behaviors.
Flower Essence Therapy was discovered by Dr. Edward Bach, 1930’s British homeopathic physician, who believed that thoughts carried great weight in dictating instructions to the body. Bach discovered this gentle way to help the human body heal and prevent dis-ease using only flowers, water and sunshine. For 40 years, I have used Essences, helping animals overcome troublesome behaviors in terrible situations, consistently demonstrating that the mind and emotions do dictate instructions to the body – “telling” it how to behave. Passive. Aggressive. Fearful. Dominant. Lots of Etceteras.
Essences helped hundreds of victims after Hurricane Katrina, animals abandoned in weeklong California firestorms, and a New York City dog who witnessed the Twin Towers coming down from her living room window. All of these and thousands more have overcome fears created by trauma, as well as behavioral problems inherently part of their personalities.
When Love Isn’t Enough
One 4th of July – a German Shepherd started the evening in the kitchen and ended up in the laundry room because she ate her way through the wall. Same Flowers that helped Katrina victims will take care of this stark raving fear. Or the likes of: “Yikes, the garbage truck! Run to the bedroom and pee.” I am not making light of either one but, you don’t have to be lost for a month or lose your forever family to suffer trauma.
EMOTIONAL NUTRITION is what they need. It is as simple as using Impatiens flowers for increasing patience, Star of Bethlehem for overcoming trauma, Star Tulip for grounding, Clematis for focus, Mimulus for fear, and/or Arnica for negative muscle memory. Behavior improvement is permanent because Essences address the root cause of the symptoms – not just masking them to return later.
Separation-anxiety is, at first glance, almost flattering. “Aw. Look. He misses us when we are gone.” Quickly jumping to: “Look what he did to the couch! The back door. The curtains. My new shoes.” Fear at the groomers, trouble traveling in the car, and separation-anxiety are all resolved with Flower Essences. Animals feel safe and send that message to the body: “No reason to run, get angry or shut down.” This new feeling of safety gives them the capacity to focus on the moment at hand, think and process. As a result, feelings of confidence, security, and self-assurance are produced. One cat person calls it “a pause button to allow for better choices.” According to another owner on the 4th of July: “He slept right through his worst nightmare!”
More Good News
Does not matter how long ago the “transgression” occurred that changed the behavior in the first place. I know animals that have not gotten along for years and the people think it is normal to have designated sections of the house for different pets. Essences address the root cause like fear, stress, and insecurity eliminating the (un)necessary behaviors that the animals use as protection against further hurt.
Daisy, a New York City Australian Shepherd, witnessed the Twin Towers coming down from her living room window. Her owner was at work, it took her all day to walk home. By then, Daisy was traumatized. For the next 6 ½ years, every single time there was a loud noise, traffic sounds, or a thunderstorm, Daisy would run to the same window and start shaking uncontrollably. In 2007, Flower Essences were sprayed once on her rear-end. Immediately, Daisy quit shaking, turned away from the window, and looked her owner in the eye. Daisy never, ever returned to her phobic behavior.
Getting along with the newest pound puppy, feral cat, rescue, or fosters with “issues.” Everyone benefits from these remedies due to the fact Flower Essences address and re-solve one-time traumatic experiences, chronic confusion, and constant low-level stress suffered by many animals nowadays. Helps older animals get over confidence issues or jealousy when newcomers enter the house.
Stress and trauma have an emotional price tag. Some animals shut down, some act out, and sadly, often physical ailments develop as a result. Some appear crazy or aggressive but 98% will be helped with properly prepared Flower Essences. I do hear: “I tried Flower Essences once and they did not work.” Reasons for failure is those Essences were either not prepared according to the tradition of Dr. Bach, not used often enough, or the owner wants to make a Golden Retriever out of a Jack Russell! (Jacks love these Remedies!)
Fears, Ferals and Phobias
One friend had a house cat for 9 years that no one else had seen but her sister. Now that’s hiding. This particular feline started to get the same Flower Essence Remedies that some of the abandoned animals of California’s weeklong firestorms and victims of Hurricane Katrina received to help them through their terrible ordeals. This remedy is for fear, loss of hope, accepting help from strangers, and adjusting to new environments. After getting Remedies in her water and on treats, that ‘fraidy cat now appears every single time there is company, rolls on her back, and waits to have her belly rubbed. Took about a month for this complete turn-around.
Whether a 10 pound, 3rd generation Feral Cat or a 10 month old Mountain Lion forced into captivity with life-threatening injuries; Flower Essence Therapy will have a positive impact on the mind and emotions of any animal even in the most astonishing situations. For the record, Fritz and Conrad, respectively mentioned here, received Flowers of Yarrow for adjusting to a new environment, Sweetgrass for change, Arnica for cleansing negative muscle memory, and Sweet Pea for increasing kindness.
Vacations, Evacuations - Equally Stressful to Some
Doreen and Michael retired, bought an RV, and were going to enjoy an adventure touring the US for the next few years. But one of their cats hated the RV. Hated the inside, the noise, the movement, hated everything about it. Used the same Essences successfully used by animal control officers, and kennel workers: Mimulus for fear, Clematis for focus, Rock Rose for steadfastness, and Star Tulip for grounding.
Focusing on the moment at hand, aware no harm or stress is present allows the animal to accept the situation while remaining calm and focused. Works wonders in shelters and kennels. Then the next time they are confronted by a similar experience; there will more acceptance and less negativity. The goal of using these Remedies is to experience permanent behavior improvement as a result of addressing the root cause of the fear, panic, confusion, trauma, anger, etc.
Doreen and Michael have been “on the road” for a year now with 2 very happy, well-adjusted cats. They needed a Remedy for only the first few weeks and then the acceptance of this new lifestyle was complete. According to Doreen, they did use Essences once for horrendous thunderstorms “just to take the edge off.”
Remove The Reason
Because Essences, as in homeopathy, address the root cause of the problems – negative behaviors are eliminated. Most animals show change immediately. Look for their “try.” Sometimes it is as simple as eye contact, head lowering, fur relaxing, or a swallow. Emergency situations needing instantaneous results; use Essences every 10 minutes for the first hour or until composure returns. Rescuers spray a towel and leave it nearby the crate or carrier.
Emotionally damaged animals, including feral cats and puppy mill dogs, could take 7-10 days before you see comfortable improvement. Guideline in homeopathy is: Use less more often. Highly reactive, chronic behaviors with ingrained patterns of thinking may 3-4 weeks before permanent change is acquired. But even these damaged animals will benefit.
Flower Essence Therapy brings a solution to negative situations that is best described in its visible results rather than in its explanation. Nature’s simplicity and its astonishing intelligence are made obvious in the positive influence on animals’ emotions, attitudes, and behavioral health. Seeing is believing.
END…
BIO:
Meg Harrison, creator of BlackWing Farms' Remedies, has 37 years experience studying and using Flower Essences. In the 1970’s, she successfully treated teenage alcoholics, blending specific Flower Essences for their recovery. She has 25 years experience as a trainer and Animal Behavior Specialist.
Uses of her Remedies were well proven in the wake of the Southern California wildfires of 2003 & 2007 where her blends helped to calm and stabilize traumatized pets, and farm animals who were lost, injured, or abandoned during the weeklong firestorms. In 2005, Meg went to Louisiana and volunteered to help care for the animal victims of Hurricane Katrina. Meg was hired by the Humane Society of the US (Washington D.C.) to remain and work at the Louisiana SPCA in New Orleans for 5 months post-Katrina.
Recently, she has been invited to lecture at The Equine Affaire, San Diego Humane Society, and the Symposium on Equine Assisted Psychotherapy and At-Risk Youth. She writes regularly for Natural Horse Magazine, and is working on her first book about Flower Essences.
Although she originally created these blends for abused and problematic horses, 80% of her “audience” today is dogs, cats, and 12 other species including a Mountain Lion named Conrad.
P.O. Box 2494 Fallbrook, CA 92088 Ph: 760.728.9900 www.BlackWingFarms.com
GOOD Health - Happiness – we all want it for our PETS
Written by PetloversGOOD Health - Happiness – we all want it for our PETS
They have such short lives as it is. We want to do everything possible to extend it and add quality, but how do we go about it? Everywhere you look, someone is touting this or that as the new improved food, and the next best thing that promises to make your animal healthier! We would like a simple answer, but we don’t live in a “one size fits all world” and what is best for one person or animal is not best for all others. Stop guessing, and stop using the shot gun approach to your animal’s health!
The first rule is - Get help, seek out a professional that you trust, and let them guide you and yours through the sea of bad and misinformation.
It is my JOB to be informed and to research and study all the time. That is what I do. I am a Holistic Health Practitioner and have been working with humans for over 10 years. I have had dogs all my life and been working with them professionally since 1990. Since 2006 when my own dog began to deteriorate before my eyes I have been a student of physical ailments, and nutrition and have looked into many things that might have been alternatives to the two, painful and expensive surgeries we has to endure. You and yours should benefit from my knowledge.
I take a structured, scientific approach to gather all the facts about your animal and its environment and lifestyle. Then I combine the scientific data with my intuition and all of the working knowledge I have from years of practice on people and pets.
The second rule is – Treat conditions holistically as your preferred strategy, but be prepared to take advantage of the acute care capabilities of Western medicine when they are appropriate..
Treating conditions holistically is my first preference, and I will exhaust all avenues to stick to that but, when it comes down to the health and well-being of the “patient”, I am prepared to use the acute care techniques of Western medicine and create a program to support the body during the process so it can heal and recover as quickly and completely as possible with the least amount of pain.
I research all the latest claims about vitamins, supplements, products, medical devices, homeopathic remedies and study about alternative therapies that range from aromatherapy to micro-current therapy. I can help you determine what, if any, is applicable for your case.
The third rule is - Use the highest quality products when necessary, reevaluate regularly, monitor progress, and fine tune things. Our bodies are ever changing, and to think that one multi vitamin is all we need over a life time is naive.
Article by Denise Rolen, Holistic Health Practitioner, and Canine Nutritionist, Owner of Network For Health Holistic Center, LLC.
Being able to take your dog off leash to socialize and play with other dogs in a fenced, off-leash dog park is a real treat in communities where the standard rule is that a dog must stay in the yard or be on a leash.
Because the first dog-park visit can be a little stressful for the novice user (human and dog), first-time visitors might consider visiting the park at non-peak times, mid-day Monday through Friday. It may take a couple of tries, or even a few weeks of visits, before your dog comes out of his/her shell. Make the first several visits short in duration. With regular dog park visits you may find your pet friendlier, well-adjusted and more playful.
Here are guidelines to follow that will make your dogs experience the best it can be while playing in the park:
- First and foremost, make sure your dog will come when called. This is an important command in case there is trouble. Practice before you go to a park.
- Ensure that your pet is currently vaccinated against common canine diseases. Contact your veterinarian if youre not sure which shots are important. Dog Parks are like elementary schools. Your canine child will be exposed to many different diseases while playing. You dont want to bring them home with you.
- Only bring adult and non-aggressive dogs to the park. Also, small children and dog parks usually dont mix well. Dog parks were created for socially adept dogs. Dog fights in dog parks are rarely a problem, because dogs consider it to be neutral territory.
Here We Go...
Walk your dog on leash from the car to the dog park entrance. The parking lot is not safe for loose dogs. Most dog parks have a double entry door system. Use this to your advantage, making sure that at least one of the doors is closed at all times. When the vestibule is empty, take your dog inside and close the first door. Remove the leash and then walk with your dog through the second doorway. Close the door behind you. Reverse this action on the way out. Once inside the park, all dogs should be off-leash, since leashed dogs may feel threatened and growl or bark when approached by off-leash dogs.
- If you wish to take a toy with you, make sure it is not your pets favorite. Dominance issues (DONT TOUCH MY TOY!) may arise which could cause your pet to become unusually aggressive and bite.
- Please clean up after your dog! Always, always scoop the poop right away! Its easy to forget, and all eyes will be on you! This is the single most important thing owners can do to insure the ongoing success of the Dog Park.
Supervise your dog closely at all times. Some dogs are easily stimulated and overwhelmed by all the activity. Watch for signs such as: increased barking; intense or obsessive (not playful) chasing; hiding; growling; snapping; and finally, fighting. Now, go have fun!
Article by Delores Keyes, Director at Irvine Animal Care Services. For more information on our park and shelter call 949.724.7740
(Some brands are done at the very bottom):
Start with a grade of 100:
1. For every listing of "by-product, " subtract 10 points
2. For every non-specific animal source ("meat" or "poultry," meat, meal or fat) reference, subtract 10 points
3. If the food contains BHA, BHT, or ethoxyquin, subtract 10 points
4. For every grain "mill run" or non-specific grain source, subtract 5 points
5. If the same grain ingredient is used 2 or more times in the first five ingredients (i.e. "ground brown rice," "brewer's rice," "rice flour" are all the same grain), subtract 5 points
6. If the protein sources are not meat meal and there are less than 2 meats in the top 3 ingredients, subtract 3 points
7. If it contains any artificial colorants, subtract 3 points
8. If it contains ground corn or whole grain corn, subtract 3 points
9. If corn is listed in the top 5 ingredients, subtract 2 more points
10. If the food contains any animal fat other than fish oil, subtract 2 points
11. If lamb is the only animal protein source (unless your dog is allergic to other protein sources), subtract 2 points
12. If it contains soy or soybeans, subtract 2 points
13. If it contains wheat (unless you know that your dog isn't allergic to wheat), subtract 2 points
14. If it contains beef (unless you know that your dog isn't allergic to beef), subtract 1 point
15. If it contains salt, subtract 1 point
Extra Credit:
1. If any of the meat sources are organic, add 5 points
2. If the food is endorsed by any major breed group or nutritionist, add 5 points
3. If the food is baked not extruded, add 5 points
4. If the food contains probiotics, add 3 points
5. If the food contains fruit, add 3 points
6. If the food contains vegetables (NOT corn or other grains), add 3 points
7. If the animal sources are hormone-free and antibiotic-free, add 2 points
8. If the food contains barley, add 2 points
9. If the food contains flax seed oil (not just the seeds), add 2 points
10. If the food contains oats or oatmeal, add 1 point
11. If the food contains sunflower oil, add 1 point
12. For every different specific animal protein source (other than the first one; count "chicken" and "chicken meal" as only one protein source, but "chicken" and "--" as 2 different sources), add 1 point
13. If it contains glucosamine and chondroitin, add 1 point
14. If the vegetables have been tested for pesticides and are pesticide-free, add 1 point
94-100+ = A
86-93 = B
78-85 = C
70-77 = D
69 = F
Here are some foods that have already been scored
(listed alphabetically, note the ratings after each name):
Authority Harvest Baked / Score 116 A+
Bil-Jac Select / Score 68 F
Canidae / Score 112 A+
Chicken Soup Senior / Score 115 A+
Diamond Maintenance / Score 64 F
Diamond Lamb Meal & Rice / Score 92 B
Diamond Large Breed 60+ Formula / Score 99 A
Dick Van Patten's Natural Balance Ultra Premium / Score 122 A+
Dick Van Patten's Duck and Potato / Score 106 A+
Foundations / Score 106 A+
Hund-n-Flocken Adult Dog (lamb) by Solid Gold / Score 93 B
Iams Lamb Meal & Rice Formula Premium / Score 73 D
Innova Dog / Score 114 A+
Innova Evo / Score 114 A+
Kirkland Signature Chicken, Rice, and Vegetables / Score 110 A+
Nutrisource Lamb and Rice / Score 87 B
Nutro Natural Choice Large Breed Puppy / Score 87 B
Pet Gold Adult with Lamb & Rice / Score 23 F
ProPlan Natural Turkey & Barley / Score 103 A+
Purina Beneful / Score 17 F
Purina Dog / Score 62 F
Purina Come-n-Get It / Score 16 F
Royal Canin Bulldog / Score 100 A+
Royal Canin Natural Blend Adult / Score 106 A+
Sensible Choice Chicken and Rice / Score 97 A
Science Diet Advanced Protein Senior 7+ / Score 63 F
Science Diet for Large Breed Puppies / Score 69 F
Wellness Super5 Mix Chicken / Score 110 A+
Wolfking Adult Dog (bison) by Solid Gold / Score 97 A
Is it Just an Upset Stomach or Something More Serious? What is Gastric Dilation Volvulus Complex?
Written by PetloversIs it Just an Upset Stomach or Something More Serious?
What is Gastric Dilation Volvulus Complex?
GDV or Bloat is a very serious syndrome seen primarily in medium to large-breed dogs. This occurs when the stomach turns or twists inside the pet causing the stomach to distend like a balloon over several hours. This sets off a chain of events that can lead to shock, collapse, and ultimately death of the pet if not dealt with urgently.
This syndrome can be caused by a number of factors: some controllable but some not. One factor that we cannot directly control is the pet's anatomical structure, such as if the pet is a deep-chested dog, like Irish Wolfhounds, Irish Setters, Great Danes, Dobermans, and Greyhounds. Labradors and Shepards can also be commonly affected.
The things we can control are size and type of food, amount of exercise, and when we feed the pet. It is best to feed large-breed dogs at least twice daily or even three times daily if possible. It is not healthy to give the dog a huge bowl of food once a day. Most dogs are not grazers and will eat whatever food is presented in a short period of time and, hence, the single daily large meal is a risky endeavor. It is also best NOT to exercise a pet after eating a full meal because the stomach can swing like a pendulum and flipping is more easily accomplished. Also, NEVER feed a dog after heavy exercise because they can engorge themselves, then drink a lot of water, causing dry food to swell or expand, and this can lead to bloating. If a pet has been heavily exercised, then let him rest for 30-60 minutes, give him small amounts of water, then feed a smaller meal after he has fully rested and is relaxed.
Symptoms
The signs to watch for in a bloat situation are: The pet will become increasingly more restless and agitated, usually will start salivating, can be dry-heaving, may be panting, and the stomach will start to distend. As the syndrome progresses, the pet will become weak and depressed, gums will become pale to grey, panting will continue or worsen, dry-heaving will continue or worsen, and the stomach will continue to enlarge where you can actually "ping" the abdomen, which is like flicking a drum and it will sound hollow or air filled. One differentiation between bloat and GDV complex is that a dog can be bloated -- which is distension without twisting -- and is less serious and can be handled differently. But if a pet is bloated and twisted -- which can only be determined by a radiograph -- then the pet needs immediate medical treatment or a poor outcome may occur.
There is a preventative surgery that can be performed if GDV/bloat complex is either genetically a concern or for the owner's peace of mind.
This can even be done laparoscopically in some instances.
If your pet is showing signs of stomach bloating, it is now a medical emergency and you will need to take your pet to the closest experienced veterinary hospital to evaluate your pet. X-rays will confirm whether your pet's stomach is bloated or twisted, and medical and possibly surgical recommendations will be made. Ultimately, in many cases, surgery is necessary to de-rotate the stomach and attach the stomach to the abdominal wall so that it is less likely to occur again. If surgery is not done within a few hours after the onset of signs then the prognosis is poor, but if the animal is treated quickly a better prognosis is attainable.
Article by Dr. Michael Wishnack , Director of the Animal Emergency Clinic of San Diego . We are family-run, giving compassionate quality care to people's beloved pets. For questions or concerns about GDV complex or other important medical issues, contact us at (858) 748-7387.
KILL EM’ WITH KINDNESS?
Treats; they come in many shapes, sizes & flavors, but have you considered how they can affect your pet’s overall health? And, how can they be used to not only show your pet how much you love them, but actually improve your pet’s health?
First, let’s discuss: What IS a treat? Well, treats can be your typical biscuit or soft meaty morsels, but treats also include chews (ie: bully sticks), raw supplements like chicken necks, raw veggies, & even bones. Basically, anything that isn’t part of your pet’s daily diet.
Llike us, we have to be informed about everything our pets eat…not only because we are adding calories to their diet, but also because there may be ingredients in the treat that could conflict with a health concern you & your pet are attempting to manage with diet. Or, the treat or supplement may not be easily digested by your pet’s sensitive tummy.
First, let’s look at some specific examples of treats that may be harmful to your pet.
Rawhides: These are very difficult to digest and may create gastrointestinal upsets even if your pet doesn’t normally have a sensitive stomach.
Grains: Treats containing grains like wheat, corn or soy (although any grain can be a problem for some pets), should be avoided if your pet has a grain-allergy.
Foreign Sourced/Irradiated: Beware of treats that are “too good to believe”. We all know dogs love the meat strip treats, and we’re all trying to watch our budget, but you really do get what you pay for. Inexpensive treats made in countries that do not use strict processing standards or that are irradiated can be detrimental to your pet’s health.
OK, so now you ask,”Well, what are appropriate treats for my pet?”
Answer:
Limited Ingredients: Treats that contain a few, pure ingredients and meet the same criteria you hold dear for your pet’s daily diet; whether you’re controlling the fat content, eliminating specific ingredients, or using unique proteins. All meat treats, raw supplements & meaty bones, tendons instead of rawhides and yes, even veggies are all acceptable and even beneficial treats for your pet.For example, chicken necks and raw meaty bones are not only an excellent source of calcium, but are also a great way to maintain good dental health.
A good rule of thumb is to pick treats that have the fewest ingredients possible. If they have added glutens, soy protein isolates or other ingredients that you are unfamiliar with, just avoid them.
And, be inquisitive, call the companies and ask them where they get their ingredients. A lot of US based companiessource their ingredients from other countries to save costs. They can put “Made in the USA” on the package, but they may still be using foreign-sourced ingredients.
Use the same care and diligence in picking your pet’s treats as you do shopping for your own foods, and your pet will be happy & healthy.
Article by Amy Hodges of Wholesome Choice
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"Precious, Precious Kitty" Cat Treats Ingredients: 1 12-oz can salmon with liquid Directions: Combine the salmon and egg in a Cuisinart™ and mix until smooth. Add the oatmeal and blend well. Spray cooking spray on a 9-by-13-inch pan and spread the mixture in the pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 30-35 minutes. Cool, then cut into bite-sized squares. Store in the freezer. Makes about 24 treats. Note: Seafood fork and crystal feeding dish are optional, but your cat may appreciate it. *Blender can be substituted for Cuisinart™ |
Pavlovs Meat Loaf - Youll Have ‘em Droolin for More! - Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey 1 egg Directions: Combine all ingredients. Mix well. Pack into 4 small loaf pans. Bake at 375 degrees for 35-40 minutes. Makes 4 small loaves. Note: One loaf will feed a 25-pound dog and is equal to one-half can of dog food. For normal-sized dogs, this would be considered a dog treat, not dinner. *Powdered canine supplements are available at most natural pet food stores. |
| These recipes and other "fun" cat and dog items can be found on the Web at www.mrsmegabyte.com/pets.html | |