Part of your responsibility as a pet owner is to keep your pet safe and also protect it from harmful food products. However, there is a common assumption among pet owners that a pet can eat any food that a human consumes. This is far from the truth and by feeding your pet certain types of food, you might be slowly poisoning your pet without knowing. Pet food safety is very essential for the well-being of your pet and you should note that, the body system of an animal greatly differs from that of a human being and certain types of food that are safe for human consumption can be dangerous when ingested by animals. The following is an overview of some foods that are considered toxic to pets.
Grapes and raisins
Grapes and raisins are considered as one of the most toxic foodstuffs when it comes to pets food safety. Grapes and raisins usually cause irreversible damage to your pets kidneys and might even cause death in extreme cases. This condition mainly affects dogs and cats.
The signs of toxicity that pets might display after ingesting grapes or raisins include loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, decreased urine production and even a drunken gait. These symptoms usually start manifesting themselves a few hours after the initial ingestion.
It is usually advisable to take your pet to a vet when you start seeing these signs. The normal treatment procedure involves induced vomiting and gastric lavage which is the pumping of the stomach.
Onions
Onions might seem to be quite harmless and even beneficial as they have medicinal properties. However, the ingestion of foodstuffs containing onion by pets can be quite catastrophic. In animals, onions cause Heinz body anemia, a condition which brings about the destruction of red blood cells and may lead to kidney damage.
Signs of onion poisoning on your pet include increased heart beat, pale gums, weakness, vomiting and bloody urine. It is also important to note that onion related foodstuffs such as garlic and chive also have the same effect.
Treatment for onion based toxicity includes fluid therapy and oxygen administration. Due to the seriousness of this type of poisoning, you should make sure that you properly dispose of food products that might contain onion.
Chocolate
Chocolate and cocoa contain a chemical known as theobromine that can adversely affect the lungs, heart, kidney and nervous system of your pet.
Signs of chocolate poisoning usually include tremors, seizures, vomiting, diarrhea and even hyperthermia. Your pet might also go into a coma and the normal treatment regimen is to induce vomiting or do a gastric lavage.
Caffeine
Food items containing caffeine are considered risky when it comes to pet food safety. Foodstuffs that have caffeine contain a chemical that is also present in chocolate and this type of poisoning can be considered as being the same as chocolate poisoning.
Macadamia nuts
Ingestion of macadamia nuts and other types of nuts is not generally fatal but can cause your pet extreme discomfort. Some of the adverse effects associated with ingesting nuts include vomiting, general body weakness, depression, joint swelling and a drunken gait on the part of your pet.
Symptoms usually disappear after a couple of hours but it is advisable to take your pet to a vet.
Xylitol
This is a sugar-free sweetener found mostly in chewing gum. When ingested by your pet, it causes the pancreas to increase its secretion of insulin causing the blood glucose level to fall.
Common signs of Xylitol poisoning include a drunken gait, vomiting and seizures. Intravenous administration of dextrose is usually the course of medication offered when you take your pet to a vet.
In order to ensure pet food safety, proper disposal and storage of potentially dangerous foodstuff is highly recommended. If you will not obey these rules, your lovely animal might suffer. A person who really loves his pet will pick food for him carefully. Although, we enjoy giving pets human foods, it happens very often that it does not give the nutrients that the animals need.
Tuesday, 18 September 2012
Heartworms in Dogs and Cats: There's No Such Thing As an Outdoor Only Mosquito
Heartworm is a common cause of heart and lung disease in both cats and dogs. Heartworms are transmitted by mosquitoes injecting microscopic larvae through the skin. Once the heartworms have matured they can mate and the females can release offspring called microfilaria. When they have matured they make their way to the heart (although other organs can also be infected with heartworms). The adult heartworms are about nine to eleven inches long and live in dogs for around 5-7 years and in cats for around 2-3 years.The cycle begins again when a mosquito takes a blood meal from the newly infected cat or dog and draws the microfilaria into its system.
Although heartworms are more common in dogs and outdoor cats, indoor cats can also be infected. As many as 25% of heartworm positive cats lived indoors exclusively. Only one or two heartworms in a cat are enough to cause sudden death and it only takes one infected mosquito to transmit the disease. A single dead worm can be fatal in cats as it can break away and cause a blockage of the pulmonary artery.
Heartworm disease in cats is different than in dogs, can be very difficult to diagnose and may mimic many other feline diseases. Cats usually test negative on the routine blood test done in the hospital, the worms are smaller and usually do not produce the microfilaria that circulate in the bloodstream.
There are no specific clinical signs for diagnosing feline heartworm disease. Cats that seem to be doing well may die suddenly. Cats usually have asthma signs, cough or even vomit. But with time, cats (and dogs) may show more severe symptoms such as congestive heart failure, weight loss, fluid build-up in the abdomen, weight loss, fainting spells, anemia, collapse or sudden death.
There is a treatment for adult heartworms in dogs, but it is very expensive and potentially harmful to the dog. Even if a dog has been given preventatives, it is still important to have annual checkups for heartworms by doing a blood test. If a dog has heartworms and it is given a dose of preventative, there can be a reaction that is detrimental to the dog, even deadly.
Unfortunately, unlike dogs, there is not a treatment for adult heartworms in cats. This is why it is much better to just prevent them in the first place. Luckily there are several excellent medications which can prevent heartworm if given as directed.
*See heartworms in action on video!
Although heartworms are more common in dogs and outdoor cats, indoor cats can also be infected. As many as 25% of heartworm positive cats lived indoors exclusively. Only one or two heartworms in a cat are enough to cause sudden death and it only takes one infected mosquito to transmit the disease. A single dead worm can be fatal in cats as it can break away and cause a blockage of the pulmonary artery.
Heartworm disease in cats is different than in dogs, can be very difficult to diagnose and may mimic many other feline diseases. Cats usually test negative on the routine blood test done in the hospital, the worms are smaller and usually do not produce the microfilaria that circulate in the bloodstream.
There are no specific clinical signs for diagnosing feline heartworm disease. Cats that seem to be doing well may die suddenly. Cats usually have asthma signs, cough or even vomit. But with time, cats (and dogs) may show more severe symptoms such as congestive heart failure, weight loss, fluid build-up in the abdomen, weight loss, fainting spells, anemia, collapse or sudden death.
There is a treatment for adult heartworms in dogs, but it is very expensive and potentially harmful to the dog. Even if a dog has been given preventatives, it is still important to have annual checkups for heartworms by doing a blood test. If a dog has heartworms and it is given a dose of preventative, there can be a reaction that is detrimental to the dog, even deadly.
Unfortunately, unlike dogs, there is not a treatment for adult heartworms in cats. This is why it is much better to just prevent them in the first place. Luckily there are several excellent medications which can prevent heartworm if given as directed.
*See heartworms in action on video!
Monday, 17 September 2012
In-Home Euthanasia for Pets
There are more than 59% of American households with pets and, in the last several decades, they have taken more of a position as a family member and less as property, not only in the eyes of pet owners but in society as a whole. A pet's death can be a very traumatic and painful time for owners but it's also a very personal time. Having to say goodbye to your best friend in a cold and sterile environment, in front of strangers, only adds to the pain and suffering. Home is the best place for goodbyes. It gives comfort and privacy and removes the anxiety for both the pet and its owner. In-home euthanasia services can cost up to $250 with an extra transportation fee of about $50 if the pet owner is located out of a designated service area. If a pet owner wants cremation services as well, that cost will be extra. But keep in mind that a pet owner may pay more if they make an emergency trip to an all-night veterinary hospital. The exact number of pets who are put down at home each year is unknown but veterinarians are making euthanasia house calls now more than ever.
Deciding on in-home euthanasia is only part of the equation and, though stressful as it is, knowing when the right time to euthanize is equally as stressful. Never is this more truthful than with first time pet owners. The moral issue of whether or not we have the right to intervene with the natural order of things raises its nasty head. There is the feeling of guilt and the dread of anticipatory grief that further cloud our decision- making. This, therefore, makes euthanizing a pet an individual decision based on one's sense of what is right for them and their pet. When becoming a pet owner, we agree to take on the responsibilities of being our pet's life steward. It is a big responsibility and, like children, our pets didn't come with a set of instructions, however, the following guide may be of some help in deciding whether or not to euthanize your pet.
The first and most important thing to keep in mind is the quality of life for your pet. Ask yourself if your pet still enjoys his daily activities such as going for a walk, greeting you when you come home, sitting with you in your quiet times, does he still play with a favorite toy and enjoy interacting with the family? A cat, on the other hand, can be a little more difficult when it comes to deciding when to euthanize as their species are masters at hiding disease and they are more stoic. If a cat displayed illness or a weakness in the wild, they would become prey. This is why it is important to watch your cat more closely when evaluating him. Things you may want to watch for are his grooming habits; is he still grooming; does he seek out your affection and attention or is he hiding away? Take a moment to think about the things that upset your pet's well-being. Do they include boredom, isolation, pain, being picked on by other animals in the home? Are they able to perform and carry out normal bodily functions such as walking, eating, drinking and eliminating? Is your pet in pain and, if so, do you know the source and is he on medications to alleviate the pain? What is the pet's medical prognosis, viable treatment options available and can you afford them? Make sure you have all the information you need to help you make the best decision possible.
If your pet is having difficulty breathing, suffering pain due to respiratory distress and is just living to breathe, there is no quality of life. If they are having problems resting and sleeping, many pet will need to sit up with their front legs extended out from their chest in order to open up their chest capacity, there is no quality of life and care should not be continued. Humane pet euthanasia is indicated in these circumstances. Relieving pain is the number one component in a pet's quality of life. For pets with arthritis, using a Non-Steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAIDS), which block the pathways of pain and inflammation with fewer side effects such as peptic ulcers, is helpful. Veterinarians have access to drugs used in pain management that are not available without prescription so consult your veterinarian to get the appropriate pain drug combination for your pet. Pets with cancer usually have severe pain at night because, as tumors grow, they impinge on and stimulate local tissue receptors or cause tissue damage and inflammation.
If the pet is older and more prone to infections, proper nutrition is vital in keeping a functioning immune system so it is important to monitor their food intake and weight. When an animal losses 10% or more of its body weight in a 3-5 day period, supplemental tube feeding may be necessary. Pets with a chronic disease or cancer suffer from cachexia or a wasting syndrome in which protein, fat and carbohydrate metabolism is changed and the animal losses weight, muscle mass and appetite. An optimal diet, in this case, is one lower in simple carbohydrates and higher in proteins and fat but consult you oncologist for recommendations. Pets need an adequate intake of fluids (22 ml) on a daily basis. If the pet isn't getting the proper intake, subcutaneous fluid supplementation may be needed to keep them hydrated. Owners can be taught to administer sterile electrolyte balanced fluids with ease by their veterinarians. Proper hygiene is important to the well-being of the pet, especially cats. Acute moist dermatitis can result if excrement and urine are not cleaned from the pet. A pet's happiness is important to its quality of life and if the pet seems isolated, afraid or non-reactive with the rest of the family, create interaction and events of enjoyment. Move them closer to where the family interacts; pet them, talk to them and play with them. Mobility is a challenge for larger breeds of dogs. In order to keep them from developing recumbent pneumonia and bed sores, they must be rotated or moved every two hours. Sadly, immobility is the most common reason for humane pet euthanasia. If a pet has more than 3-5 bad days in a row and is under palliative care, quality of life is lowered and humane pet euthanasia should be considered.
For many, after agonizing over the decision and their pet is gone, they still have remaining feeling of guilt and doubt. They question the veterinarian and themselves about having done the right thing or perhaps waiting longer and maybe they should have tried something else. Don't do this as it will rob you of your confidence and turn your precious memories into pain. Remember, the decision you made to euthanize your pet came out of love and caring. Your pet would tell you this if they could so go easy on yourself; you did good.
Deciding on in-home euthanasia is only part of the equation and, though stressful as it is, knowing when the right time to euthanize is equally as stressful. Never is this more truthful than with first time pet owners. The moral issue of whether or not we have the right to intervene with the natural order of things raises its nasty head. There is the feeling of guilt and the dread of anticipatory grief that further cloud our decision- making. This, therefore, makes euthanizing a pet an individual decision based on one's sense of what is right for them and their pet. When becoming a pet owner, we agree to take on the responsibilities of being our pet's life steward. It is a big responsibility and, like children, our pets didn't come with a set of instructions, however, the following guide may be of some help in deciding whether or not to euthanize your pet.
The first and most important thing to keep in mind is the quality of life for your pet. Ask yourself if your pet still enjoys his daily activities such as going for a walk, greeting you when you come home, sitting with you in your quiet times, does he still play with a favorite toy and enjoy interacting with the family? A cat, on the other hand, can be a little more difficult when it comes to deciding when to euthanize as their species are masters at hiding disease and they are more stoic. If a cat displayed illness or a weakness in the wild, they would become prey. This is why it is important to watch your cat more closely when evaluating him. Things you may want to watch for are his grooming habits; is he still grooming; does he seek out your affection and attention or is he hiding away? Take a moment to think about the things that upset your pet's well-being. Do they include boredom, isolation, pain, being picked on by other animals in the home? Are they able to perform and carry out normal bodily functions such as walking, eating, drinking and eliminating? Is your pet in pain and, if so, do you know the source and is he on medications to alleviate the pain? What is the pet's medical prognosis, viable treatment options available and can you afford them? Make sure you have all the information you need to help you make the best decision possible.
If your pet is having difficulty breathing, suffering pain due to respiratory distress and is just living to breathe, there is no quality of life. If they are having problems resting and sleeping, many pet will need to sit up with their front legs extended out from their chest in order to open up their chest capacity, there is no quality of life and care should not be continued. Humane pet euthanasia is indicated in these circumstances. Relieving pain is the number one component in a pet's quality of life. For pets with arthritis, using a Non-Steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAIDS), which block the pathways of pain and inflammation with fewer side effects such as peptic ulcers, is helpful. Veterinarians have access to drugs used in pain management that are not available without prescription so consult your veterinarian to get the appropriate pain drug combination for your pet. Pets with cancer usually have severe pain at night because, as tumors grow, they impinge on and stimulate local tissue receptors or cause tissue damage and inflammation.
If the pet is older and more prone to infections, proper nutrition is vital in keeping a functioning immune system so it is important to monitor their food intake and weight. When an animal losses 10% or more of its body weight in a 3-5 day period, supplemental tube feeding may be necessary. Pets with a chronic disease or cancer suffer from cachexia or a wasting syndrome in which protein, fat and carbohydrate metabolism is changed and the animal losses weight, muscle mass and appetite. An optimal diet, in this case, is one lower in simple carbohydrates and higher in proteins and fat but consult you oncologist for recommendations. Pets need an adequate intake of fluids (22 ml) on a daily basis. If the pet isn't getting the proper intake, subcutaneous fluid supplementation may be needed to keep them hydrated. Owners can be taught to administer sterile electrolyte balanced fluids with ease by their veterinarians. Proper hygiene is important to the well-being of the pet, especially cats. Acute moist dermatitis can result if excrement and urine are not cleaned from the pet. A pet's happiness is important to its quality of life and if the pet seems isolated, afraid or non-reactive with the rest of the family, create interaction and events of enjoyment. Move them closer to where the family interacts; pet them, talk to them and play with them. Mobility is a challenge for larger breeds of dogs. In order to keep them from developing recumbent pneumonia and bed sores, they must be rotated or moved every two hours. Sadly, immobility is the most common reason for humane pet euthanasia. If a pet has more than 3-5 bad days in a row and is under palliative care, quality of life is lowered and humane pet euthanasia should be considered.
For many, after agonizing over the decision and their pet is gone, they still have remaining feeling of guilt and doubt. They question the veterinarian and themselves about having done the right thing or perhaps waiting longer and maybe they should have tried something else. Don't do this as it will rob you of your confidence and turn your precious memories into pain. Remember, the decision you made to euthanize your pet came out of love and caring. Your pet would tell you this if they could so go easy on yourself; you did good.
Wednesday, 12 September 2012
Pets Both Large And Small
Pets do so many great things for people. They are companions, partners, and most important to some, our friends. This friendship is mutually beneficial for the animals and their people. Pets fill a void that would otherwise be empty, and in return they get good care and love. Animals don't judge people harshly. Given kindness, they love unconditionally and never question it.
It's not just dogs and cats that make good pets either. There are horses, cows, rodents, goats, even chickens can be pets. What pet(s) you have is greatly determined by where you live. If you live in town, with very small and limited space, you may sometimes have a cat, dog, or other small animal. On the other hand, if you live in a more rural area, you can have a horse, goat, or any other large animal. This also depends on the attitude of a landlord if you rent.
Do some research before you bring home a pet, however, and be sure you can fit one into your lifestyle and budget. Pets can be very expensive and time consuming. They require vet care, food, and supplies. Depending on the type of pet or animal you get or want to get, there may be specialized equipment and supplies required. And keep in mind that a larger animal can also mean larger expenses.
A dog or cat can be fairly simple to care for. You only need a collar, leash, food and water bowl, and a yearly vet check, or however often your veterinarian recommends.
Larger animals can be more expensive on vet care, food and supplies. If you have horses, cows, or goats, for instance, you need to have good fencing, water tanks, feeders, and a wind break or lean-to shed just to start. Then you have to have hay in the winter, grain is not always cheap, and tack and equipment, depending on what kind of animals you have.
Despite all of the expenses, what you get back is far more rewarding than you can imagine. Unconditional love, friendship, and even a playmate are just a few of the rewards of pet and animal ownership. You never have to come home to an empty house, yard, or lot. Someone is always happy to see you and spend time with you. Animals can also be very comforting at times of sorrow.
Pets can even be trained to work for us. Service animals are all over the place. They help with the blind and handicapped people. Dogs and horses are used on the police force, and in the military.
Pets are great motivation for kids to learn responsibility. They can also be four-legged babysitters (to an extent). Kids can also learn discipline by following strict schedules for showing their animals in programs like 4-H and the FFA. Animals can teach kids how to love and be respectful to the needs of others. Also, a high level of confidence and accomplishment can be achieved by caring for and owning an animal, no matter what type and size the animal is.
Whether you own a pet, or just love animals, your life can be touched and enriched by pets, both large and small.
It's not just dogs and cats that make good pets either. There are horses, cows, rodents, goats, even chickens can be pets. What pet(s) you have is greatly determined by where you live. If you live in town, with very small and limited space, you may sometimes have a cat, dog, or other small animal. On the other hand, if you live in a more rural area, you can have a horse, goat, or any other large animal. This also depends on the attitude of a landlord if you rent.
Do some research before you bring home a pet, however, and be sure you can fit one into your lifestyle and budget. Pets can be very expensive and time consuming. They require vet care, food, and supplies. Depending on the type of pet or animal you get or want to get, there may be specialized equipment and supplies required. And keep in mind that a larger animal can also mean larger expenses.
A dog or cat can be fairly simple to care for. You only need a collar, leash, food and water bowl, and a yearly vet check, or however often your veterinarian recommends.
Larger animals can be more expensive on vet care, food and supplies. If you have horses, cows, or goats, for instance, you need to have good fencing, water tanks, feeders, and a wind break or lean-to shed just to start. Then you have to have hay in the winter, grain is not always cheap, and tack and equipment, depending on what kind of animals you have.
Despite all of the expenses, what you get back is far more rewarding than you can imagine. Unconditional love, friendship, and even a playmate are just a few of the rewards of pet and animal ownership. You never have to come home to an empty house, yard, or lot. Someone is always happy to see you and spend time with you. Animals can also be very comforting at times of sorrow.
Pets can even be trained to work for us. Service animals are all over the place. They help with the blind and handicapped people. Dogs and horses are used on the police force, and in the military.
Pets are great motivation for kids to learn responsibility. They can also be four-legged babysitters (to an extent). Kids can also learn discipline by following strict schedules for showing their animals in programs like 4-H and the FFA. Animals can teach kids how to love and be respectful to the needs of others. Also, a high level of confidence and accomplishment can be achieved by caring for and owning an animal, no matter what type and size the animal is.
Whether you own a pet, or just love animals, your life can be touched and enriched by pets, both large and small.
Pet ID Tags - Better Safe Than Sorry
During the summer months, you and your trusting pet will most likely try to spend a significant amount of time in the great outdoors. With that amount of outdoor time spent, dog and cat owners must be mindful of their pets using ID tags and other forms of identification. References such as, FoundAnimals.org, slightly over a third of all pets will eventually become lost at some point during their life. With this scary reality an unfortunate fact, the primary way rescue groups will be able to contact owners is through ID tags.
Unfortunately, the Humane Society of America reports that similar to the amount of lost pets, about 30 percent of dogs and between two to five percent of cats are actually reclaimed by owners. The reason behind these staggering numbers is most likely due to missing pet identification. If this does scare you, and you would rather your pet didn't become part of those statistics, head the advice below.
Step number one is getting your pet registered. Whether you dwell in the big city or you reside in a more rural setting, always get your dog or cat licensed. By licensing your pet with the proper authorities, you will increase the chances of finding a lost pet. Remember, laws vary from state to state and even from city to city, so registering you with will improve the chances they will be returned to you if found by a local resident or animal control.
Second. Purchase or acquire multiple ID tags. If you frequently travel with your dog or cat, or plan to, it can be advantageous to purchase these extra sets of ID tags for your trips. Similar to bringing extra collars, leashes, and other essentials while traveling, doing the same with identifications is always smart. This ensures that your dog or cat will always have proper ID when exploring new locations.
The third aspect is to consider a dog microchip. Additional to ID tags, microchips have become a great secondary form of ID for dogs. These tiny magnetic bars are painlessly implanted within a dog's skin and given a permanent identification number that is entered into a large database. This device actually doesn't contain a battery and will only operate when an animal healthcare professional scans the chip. Uplifting statistics behind these chips are great. PetFinder reports that the return-to-owner rate for micro chipped dogs was over 52 percent, while cats reported an impressive 38 percent.
Whether you're a long-time dog owner or a new pet parent, the significance of ID tags cannot be understated. It is one of the few ways that your pet can be returned to you if he or she becomes lost.
Unfortunately, the Humane Society of America reports that similar to the amount of lost pets, about 30 percent of dogs and between two to five percent of cats are actually reclaimed by owners. The reason behind these staggering numbers is most likely due to missing pet identification. If this does scare you, and you would rather your pet didn't become part of those statistics, head the advice below.
Step number one is getting your pet registered. Whether you dwell in the big city or you reside in a more rural setting, always get your dog or cat licensed. By licensing your pet with the proper authorities, you will increase the chances of finding a lost pet. Remember, laws vary from state to state and even from city to city, so registering you with will improve the chances they will be returned to you if found by a local resident or animal control.
Second. Purchase or acquire multiple ID tags. If you frequently travel with your dog or cat, or plan to, it can be advantageous to purchase these extra sets of ID tags for your trips. Similar to bringing extra collars, leashes, and other essentials while traveling, doing the same with identifications is always smart. This ensures that your dog or cat will always have proper ID when exploring new locations.
The third aspect is to consider a dog microchip. Additional to ID tags, microchips have become a great secondary form of ID for dogs. These tiny magnetic bars are painlessly implanted within a dog's skin and given a permanent identification number that is entered into a large database. This device actually doesn't contain a battery and will only operate when an animal healthcare professional scans the chip. Uplifting statistics behind these chips are great. PetFinder reports that the return-to-owner rate for micro chipped dogs was over 52 percent, while cats reported an impressive 38 percent.
Whether you're a long-time dog owner or a new pet parent, the significance of ID tags cannot be understated. It is one of the few ways that your pet can be returned to you if he or she becomes lost.
Tuesday, 11 September 2012
Losing Your Pet and the Grieving Process
Losing a pet is like losing a member of the family but many times it is even harder because some people around you think that it's not that big of a deal.
I have lost many pets over the years and the responses never seem to change "It's only a cat," or "oh come on, it's not like it was a human being." IT!!!??? NOT EVEN A HUMAN BEING!!!???
Not to you maybe, but to me it's like losing a child. And the scenario seems always to be the same as well... the fear, the quick trip to the emergency vet clinging to a little ball of fur and telling him/her that you love them and everything will be fine. The tests and then the doctor saying "it doesn't look good... " The tears come next and the decision to say goodbye as you hold your ball of fluff for the last time.And then...
The quiet ride home... then the television set goes on, a cup of coffee poured and some act like it never happened. "Hey hon, that movie we wanted to see is on... make some popcorn." POPCORN!!!???
No talk of funeral arrangements, no calling the boss to say you won't be in tomorrow because there's a death in the family... just popcorn.
And that's supposed to be the end of it... the end of so many years of waking up to the nose in your face and a soft purr. The end of racing to the food dish and following you wherever you go with it.The end of seeing that pair of eyes telling you silently "I love you."
So what do you do? Grieve! It doesn't matter what anyone else says. This is YOUR personal journey, so cry, take a day (or two) off, have a makeshift service of your own, do whatever it takes to make you feel better. Take the popcorn bowl and dump it over that movie watcher's head if you like!
It is your right to grieve. It is your right to feel the way you want to feel. It is not childish, or stupid.Find a pet bereavement group, they work wonders and they understand what you are going through.Talk to a friend who understands and stay away from people that tell you things that hurt you. They are not right, they are just voicing an opinion that frankly they should keep to themselves at this point.
It is your right to feel. It is your right to remember.
I have lost many pets over the years and the responses never seem to change "It's only a cat," or "oh come on, it's not like it was a human being." IT!!!??? NOT EVEN A HUMAN BEING!!!???
Not to you maybe, but to me it's like losing a child. And the scenario seems always to be the same as well... the fear, the quick trip to the emergency vet clinging to a little ball of fur and telling him/her that you love them and everything will be fine. The tests and then the doctor saying "it doesn't look good... " The tears come next and the decision to say goodbye as you hold your ball of fluff for the last time.And then...
The quiet ride home... then the television set goes on, a cup of coffee poured and some act like it never happened. "Hey hon, that movie we wanted to see is on... make some popcorn." POPCORN!!!???
No talk of funeral arrangements, no calling the boss to say you won't be in tomorrow because there's a death in the family... just popcorn.
And that's supposed to be the end of it... the end of so many years of waking up to the nose in your face and a soft purr. The end of racing to the food dish and following you wherever you go with it.The end of seeing that pair of eyes telling you silently "I love you."
So what do you do? Grieve! It doesn't matter what anyone else says. This is YOUR personal journey, so cry, take a day (or two) off, have a makeshift service of your own, do whatever it takes to make you feel better. Take the popcorn bowl and dump it over that movie watcher's head if you like!
It is your right to grieve. It is your right to feel the way you want to feel. It is not childish, or stupid.Find a pet bereavement group, they work wonders and they understand what you are going through.Talk to a friend who understands and stay away from people that tell you things that hurt you. They are not right, they are just voicing an opinion that frankly they should keep to themselves at this point.
It is your right to feel. It is your right to remember.
Tuesday, 4 September 2012
Service Animals, Emotional Support Animals, and Guide Dogs
Sadly, some people are asking whether "service animal" laws are being abused by those who want to scam the system.
There have been news stories, articles, opinion pieces and other editorials where people rant and complain about people they believe to be abusing the system. You hear some complain that they had to sit near a dog at a restaurant that they don't believe is a "real" service dog, or others complain that their neighbors have a pet in a "no pet" building because they claimed the animal is an emotional support animal.
Some of the commentary has an indignant tone, and some people are downright angry.
How does this affect those who legitimately own and use a service animal to better their lives? In many ways.
For one, it can it more difficult to navigate bureaucracy of the world when your claim of a disability and your service or emotional support animal's status is questioned. If a landlord or business owner has heard negative stories claiming that some people are abusing the system, it can cause them to look suspiciously at all claimants.
Some landlord and business owners have begun asking for proof of status, even though asking for written or other evidence is not always legal, and even though many owners of legitimate service animals and emotional support animals have not taken advantage of registering them, and thus have no such documentation to produce.
It is the suspicious attitude and illegal demands of some landlords and business owners that make registrations services like the Service Animal Registry of California so vital to legitimate owners.
Although registration is optional, it can help shortcut the housing rental and business access issues when the owner can produce a simple document that will often satisfy the owner or landlord. Also, when using public spaces, it is often easier to hand over a document with a simple sentence stating, "This is a service animal" and letting the other party read the information, rather than having a long-winded protracted conversation (or worse yet, argument) in public, with onlookers listening in and gathering around the discussion.
So, do some people scam the system, or game the law? Sadly, the answer is "probably yes." In life, there is always room for abuse and people can try to take advantage of many systems that we as a society put in place to protect the rights of those who need such protection. For example, many drivers falsely display disabled parking placards to take advantage of free and convenient parking. Not to mention the number of folks who lie on their tax returns, claim improper tax deductions, abuse retail store return policies, or do other bad acts.
But that percentage of abuse, which in the area of service animal laws is hopefully small, is arguably a very small price to pay when compared to the higher goal of promoting access and equality for all.
In the end, you cannot control any system to make it 100% abuse proof. So tolerating the few people who scam service animal laws is the price we gladly pay to ensure that the disabled in the great state of California have equal access under law.
There have been news stories, articles, opinion pieces and other editorials where people rant and complain about people they believe to be abusing the system. You hear some complain that they had to sit near a dog at a restaurant that they don't believe is a "real" service dog, or others complain that their neighbors have a pet in a "no pet" building because they claimed the animal is an emotional support animal.
Some of the commentary has an indignant tone, and some people are downright angry.
How does this affect those who legitimately own and use a service animal to better their lives? In many ways.
For one, it can it more difficult to navigate bureaucracy of the world when your claim of a disability and your service or emotional support animal's status is questioned. If a landlord or business owner has heard negative stories claiming that some people are abusing the system, it can cause them to look suspiciously at all claimants.
Some landlord and business owners have begun asking for proof of status, even though asking for written or other evidence is not always legal, and even though many owners of legitimate service animals and emotional support animals have not taken advantage of registering them, and thus have no such documentation to produce.
It is the suspicious attitude and illegal demands of some landlords and business owners that make registrations services like the Service Animal Registry of California so vital to legitimate owners.
Although registration is optional, it can help shortcut the housing rental and business access issues when the owner can produce a simple document that will often satisfy the owner or landlord. Also, when using public spaces, it is often easier to hand over a document with a simple sentence stating, "This is a service animal" and letting the other party read the information, rather than having a long-winded protracted conversation (or worse yet, argument) in public, with onlookers listening in and gathering around the discussion.
So, do some people scam the system, or game the law? Sadly, the answer is "probably yes." In life, there is always room for abuse and people can try to take advantage of many systems that we as a society put in place to protect the rights of those who need such protection. For example, many drivers falsely display disabled parking placards to take advantage of free and convenient parking. Not to mention the number of folks who lie on their tax returns, claim improper tax deductions, abuse retail store return policies, or do other bad acts.
But that percentage of abuse, which in the area of service animal laws is hopefully small, is arguably a very small price to pay when compared to the higher goal of promoting access and equality for all.
In the end, you cannot control any system to make it 100% abuse proof. So tolerating the few people who scam service animal laws is the price we gladly pay to ensure that the disabled in the great state of California have equal access under law.
Simple Steps to Ensuring Pet Safety at Home
Those of us with children will do anything to keep them safe at school and at home, so it should make sense that we want the same thing for our four-footed friends. Dogs, especially, are curious and tend to get into things, so it's important to make sure your home is safe for the entire family. This includes the family dog, cat, or other winged or multi-footed creature in the house. Making simple changes to your home and lifestyle, though, can guarantee a safe existence for your dog, cat, or other winged or multi-footed creature in your home.
That said, here are a few guidelines to consider when planning home safety for pets. Make sure the kids know what to do as well. Everybody should look after each other.
Out of Sight, Out of Mind
When we see something, we may tend to make a grab for it. This goes for pets as well. If a dog sees a bit of food dropped on the kitchen floor, you can bet he's going to lap it up before you get a chance to clean.
If you're eating chocolate, you definitely don't want to leave any out where a dog can get to it. You should be very mindful of food that is left out - it needs to be out of reach or, even better, put away when you're not eating.
What then, you may ask, do you do about garbage? A dog or cat may see you scraping leftovers into a bin and make a dive for it later. You may want to keep kitchen garbage in a can with a lid a pet can't easily nose open, or else keep all garbage in cupboard space underneath the sink. If you collect small plastic bags from the grocery store, use them to secure food that's bad for pets and double-knot the handles.
A Pet Proof Bathroom
If you do not want your pet dipping into the toilet bowl for a drink (to be sure the commode is not exactly the cleanest source for water), make sure everybody keeps the lid down at all times. In doing this, though, you should always check that your pet has a handy source for getting water when he/she is alone. Condition your pet to go to its bowl for water.
If you take medication, it can definitely be harmful to pets if swallowed. Never leave a pill out in the open - this includes vitamins and supplements - where a pet can easily jump or stretch upward to nab it. Keep all medication bottles in a medicine chest or shelf, and use child-proof lids to protect your prescriptions.
Know the Boundaries
You wouldn't set a toddler free outside where he could run out into the street, would you? The same goes for a dog or cat. When it's time to go outside, your pet may be so excited that he'll bound away once the door opens. You need to set firmly with your pet that he/she stays close to you when leaving the house. That way you can gauge traffic and other conditions so you pet isn't hurt.
When your home becomes a safe environment for your pets, your dog or cat will enjoy a long life in a happy house. Keep an eye on them, and on everything that poses a danger to them.
That said, here are a few guidelines to consider when planning home safety for pets. Make sure the kids know what to do as well. Everybody should look after each other.
Out of Sight, Out of Mind
When we see something, we may tend to make a grab for it. This goes for pets as well. If a dog sees a bit of food dropped on the kitchen floor, you can bet he's going to lap it up before you get a chance to clean.
If you're eating chocolate, you definitely don't want to leave any out where a dog can get to it. You should be very mindful of food that is left out - it needs to be out of reach or, even better, put away when you're not eating.
What then, you may ask, do you do about garbage? A dog or cat may see you scraping leftovers into a bin and make a dive for it later. You may want to keep kitchen garbage in a can with a lid a pet can't easily nose open, or else keep all garbage in cupboard space underneath the sink. If you collect small plastic bags from the grocery store, use them to secure food that's bad for pets and double-knot the handles.
A Pet Proof Bathroom
If you do not want your pet dipping into the toilet bowl for a drink (to be sure the commode is not exactly the cleanest source for water), make sure everybody keeps the lid down at all times. In doing this, though, you should always check that your pet has a handy source for getting water when he/she is alone. Condition your pet to go to its bowl for water.
If you take medication, it can definitely be harmful to pets if swallowed. Never leave a pill out in the open - this includes vitamins and supplements - where a pet can easily jump or stretch upward to nab it. Keep all medication bottles in a medicine chest or shelf, and use child-proof lids to protect your prescriptions.
Know the Boundaries
You wouldn't set a toddler free outside where he could run out into the street, would you? The same goes for a dog or cat. When it's time to go outside, your pet may be so excited that he'll bound away once the door opens. You need to set firmly with your pet that he/she stays close to you when leaving the house. That way you can gauge traffic and other conditions so you pet isn't hurt.
When your home becomes a safe environment for your pets, your dog or cat will enjoy a long life in a happy house. Keep an eye on them, and on everything that poses a danger to them.
Qualities Of Good Veterinary Hospital
A good veterinary hospital always puts the needs of your pet first and they employ quality professionals that you can trust with your animal's health and well-being. The mission of a quality veterinary hospital is to provide the optimum of care to our four legged friends.
They will also provide excellent medical care and preventative medicine. These professional vets and their staff offer comprehensive care not to just dogs and cats but to small pocket pets and birds and fish as well. If you consider it a pet, they promise to give it the best medical care your money can buy.
You can rest assured that your pet will be given the best and most compassionate care available. Every worker at comprehensive veterinary hospitals understands how important people's pets are to them. That is why they always provide tender loving care in a professional setting for your furry friends.
The veterinary staff knows the trust you place in them and your pet's health is their top priority and their deepest passion. The needs of animals are quite unique and it takes trained and knowledgeable professionals to handle the job. You can have peace of mind knowing that Fluffy and Fido are in the best and most capable hands.
When you decide to take your family pet into a vet's office for a regular exam or for treatment here are some things you can expect to have covered on the list of animals issues and disease:
Fleas and ticksParasitesArthritisVaccinationsCanine distemper and parvoCancerSkin related issuesHip problemsHeartwormsCanine obesity
These are just a few of the illnesses and problems this dedicated team of professionals can assist you and your animal with. Modern veterinary medicine has made huge inroads over the past few years and now more than ever pet owners can rely on quality veterinary care like never before. They can even assist you in choosing the right animal or breed for your personality and living arrangements. Also if you need help training your animal to be obedient there are things you can to make that easier on both you and your pet. Why not look up a trustworthy veterinary hospital online today and ask the questions you need to ask. The friendly staff will be more than happy to assist you. If they feel your pet needs to be examined, they can schedule an appointment right from your computer.
Our pets truly are like a member of our families and we want them to receive superior health care like our children do. Put your faith in a good veterinarian today and your pet will love you even more for it.
They will also provide excellent medical care and preventative medicine. These professional vets and their staff offer comprehensive care not to just dogs and cats but to small pocket pets and birds and fish as well. If you consider it a pet, they promise to give it the best medical care your money can buy.
You can rest assured that your pet will be given the best and most compassionate care available. Every worker at comprehensive veterinary hospitals understands how important people's pets are to them. That is why they always provide tender loving care in a professional setting for your furry friends.
The veterinary staff knows the trust you place in them and your pet's health is their top priority and their deepest passion. The needs of animals are quite unique and it takes trained and knowledgeable professionals to handle the job. You can have peace of mind knowing that Fluffy and Fido are in the best and most capable hands.
When you decide to take your family pet into a vet's office for a regular exam or for treatment here are some things you can expect to have covered on the list of animals issues and disease:
Fleas and ticksParasitesArthritisVaccinationsCanine distemper and parvoCancerSkin related issuesHip problemsHeartwormsCanine obesity
These are just a few of the illnesses and problems this dedicated team of professionals can assist you and your animal with. Modern veterinary medicine has made huge inroads over the past few years and now more than ever pet owners can rely on quality veterinary care like never before. They can even assist you in choosing the right animal or breed for your personality and living arrangements. Also if you need help training your animal to be obedient there are things you can to make that easier on both you and your pet. Why not look up a trustworthy veterinary hospital online today and ask the questions you need to ask. The friendly staff will be more than happy to assist you. If they feel your pet needs to be examined, they can schedule an appointment right from your computer.
Our pets truly are like a member of our families and we want them to receive superior health care like our children do. Put your faith in a good veterinarian today and your pet will love you even more for it.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)