Happy Birthday Sagittarius!

Lucky dawg, lucky dawg, I'm a lucky dawg. Oh boy, am I happy! Yeah, I've got my arrow pointed high in the air, I'm aimin' for the bacon, and life is ruffing good. My supaw-Sagittarian-ness has blessed me with happiness this year, which I joyfully yap forward to you: just call me the Lord of Love.
Fellow Sagittarians, our natural inclination is to seek the truth - and teach it. And what's more truthful than barking ♥ all over the place? Good thing I'm also totally athletic (and handsome), so I can keep on adventuring as long as possible. And I will keep my heart as big and healthy as possible, with Hearty Heart for dogs. Stay blissful my Sagittarian beasts, and this year you'll find your heart swelling with sorts of lovely possibilities. Oh, and that speedy poodle you can't seem to catch? It's your turn to give her a heart pumping workout, chase-the-tail style. And who doesn't love chasing tail?

Dog I love you guys, Buster

Your Right To Alternative Pet Health Care - What Bill Keeps The Bills Down?

This just in: my British Columbia, Canada buds have been yapping up a storm recently. Why? Their current veterinary legislation is up for review, and hints at making changes that may further limit a human's ability to find alternative health care for their pet.

Right now across Canada, humans need a referral from a conventional vet to seek a naturopathic/homeopathic vet for pet. Not only that, but a human has to pay extra for a conventional vet to supervise their chosen natural vet - an expense that can really add up! For humans who can't afford the extra charge, they can find a conventional vet with homeopathic, chiropractic or acupuncture training - something that they can be "qualified" to practice within a few weekends. Are you pulling my tail? My human Sage's natural doctor took years of schooling to be "qualified" to practice. How come my Canadian brothers and sisters are getting the short end of the stick (which, by the way, no doggie ever likes)? As if paying a human arm and a leg for pet care weren't expensive enough as it is.

I'm a lucky dog. When my human Sage has to take me to our vet - and with all the homeopathic and natural prevention she uses, it's only really for check-ups - she does invest a lot (thank you, Sage. I bow to your doggie devotion). But at least here in California, my human can choose whatever kind of health care she wants.

What about you and your human? Do you know your state laws? We live in a free country, and should have the right to make recession-proof choices as much as pawssible. Check your state laws out here:

Pals, Know Your Rights!

and

American Vet Legislation
American Holistic Vet Legislation

And while you're at it, spread a little puppy love with me for our norther neighbors:give them a paw by sharing this link:

Crazy Canadian Vet Laws

I stand by my commitment to love and protect you, my furry friends. And that means helping our humans stay educated, too!

Love, Buster

Photo Credit: slava

Dog Cushing's Disease - I Don't Buy That It's So Cushy

Last month I visited with my boxer friend, Andy. Normally, Andy and I get along like peas and carrots, but our visit was hampered by a very strange show: he drank water almost non-stop and peed all over my house! Not only that he appeared unlike his usual self: he was thinner in the bod and hair. No, he wasn't a drunk. Poor guy, turns out he has Dog Cushing's Disease!

My friends, Cushing's ain't cushy. Most common in dogs over 8 (56, in human years), it is an ailment that usually stems from a tumor located in either the pituitary gland (in 85% of all cases), or the adrenal gland (15%). In some cases, dogs on the corticosteroid Prednisone can develop Cushing's, too. Dawg I tell you, side effects are no good. Some breeds are more susceptible, too: beagle, boston terrier, boxer, dachshund, and poodle.

Cushing's disease is caused by an over production of glucocorticoids, which hampaws the regulation of kidney function and salt loss in urine, as well as stabilization of blood sugar levels and urine production. In other words: it can really piss us off!

Symptoms can include an increase in water intake (check), decreased muscle mass (check), thinning of skin and hair loss (check check), and excessive urination (check check check check check). While most cases don't cause death, this ailment must be treated to avoid a lowered immune system, which makes us susceptible to infections. Thank Dogness Andy's human took him straight to the vet (where he met a mighty fine lady, I might add. The best side-effect ever! But I digress.)! A simple blood test diagnosed him as positive; he enjoyed a treat, and then went home to recover.

In most cases where a pituitary tumor is the cause, treatment is by medication for life. Conventional drugs include a cytotoxin to destroy part of the adrenal gland, or ketoconazole, a synthetic anti-fungal drug which releases steroids into the bloodstream. I bark again: Side effects! Side effects! Side effects!

In the less common case of an adrenal gland tumor, treatment is surgery.

Either way, there is a natural alternative to treat this!

My human (bless her) told Andy's human about Supraglan, a naturapathically formulated treatment designed to regulate hormones, reduce inflammation, rebalance and strengthen our systems. Within a month, Andy was feeling and looking much better - and getting ready to become a father! At age 8 (56, in human years people, I bark it again!) he still isn't exactly the springiest of pups, but thanks to Supraglan he is going to make a super doggin' dad.

And he isn't ever going to piss me off, again.

Party on, Buster

Photo Credit: intangible

Get Your Pet To The Vet - Pet Wellness Exams, When And Why

Most of us pets give our humans the paw as soon as vet time comes around. My pussy pal Sarah the Siamese gnaws the edge of a PJ drawer, while once upawn a time I used to take refuge deep, deep into my human Sage's bed (it was stuffy but what the heck did I care - no see vet, vet no see me!). Your pet may start molting and whining at the word "vet", but keep that appointment! Regular wellness exams are the most important thing (besides giving love, treats, and chew toys) you can do for your pet.

Every pet under the sun should have a wellness exam once per year. Every year in our lives is worth 5 to 7 of yours, which means our health can change super fast. Senior pets even need to be seen every 6 months. Regular wellness exams let your vet determine how your pet is, and ensure that there is no ailment that can harm them - or worsen. But ears up, critters: the vet's bark is way worse than his/her bite. I say this confidently, and with experience.

Here's a look at what goes on during your wellness exam:

Temper, Temper: Temperature is taken. Doggies and kitties should all rest around 100 - 102 F.

Beat It: Heartbeat is taken. Our heartbeats range according to size, anywhere from 100 - 260 beats per minute. Of course if we're terrified our vet will take that into consideration, so not to worry. Everyone will know you're not having a heart attack.

Breathe Easy: Breaths will be counted, too. Dogs 15 - 20 per minute, cats 20 - 30.

The Weigh In: Those of you tippers will be advised to go easy on the kibble.

Hear That: As we know from my older post (Now Hear This), our ears can be home for many pests. My vet gets right in there, for a real close look.

I'm Watching You: The eyes are the window to our health! My vet can tell all sorts of ailments from looking into mine: anemia, infections, glaucoma, cataracts, high blood pressure, jaundice, kidney problems and allergies.

At this point, exam almost done!

Don't Be Mouthy: My vet pulls double duty, taking care of my body and my teeth. My vet inspects my mouth for plaque build-up, abnormalities, loose teeth, tumors, infections, gum disease, and bad words. She can always tell when I've been a potty mouth.

The Goodies: My vet grabs, I cough. I can't help it. What else is a guy to do? My vet also looks for swellings, discharges and breast lumps (yes, not just the ladies).

Ok, one more to go!

The Skinny on Skin: Like humans, skin is the largest organ of an animal's body. My vet knows how crazy I am about the great outdoors, which means I'm constantly coming home with scratches, bites, and even sometimes ticks. OMD, I even had a wart once. She totally took care of it, quickly and almost painlessly.

And then, your exam is dunzo!

So chill out, my furry friends. As I have exemplified, your wellness exam takes just a yip, and is over before you know it! If you're really lucky your vet will have a treat waiting for you after. Visit forgotten.

And PS: what better place to meet bitches in need of a little comforting, than the waiting room? I know a lot of amazing union and reunion stories, all starting with that trip to the vet.

Let not a scary vet experience dog you more!

Be well, Buster

Photo Credit: eng1ne

We're So Good For Each Other - A Love Letter To My Human

Dear Sage,

I love you, you love me. We're one happy family!

I have found my humanmate. Our relationship keeps me healthy: I sense your love and affection, which helps me stay relaxed and feel safe. Your stroking and caressing makes my body release endorphins, which makes me feel happy. You feed me, keep me clean, and play with me. I am one lucky dog.

In return, I am your most loyal servant. I love you unconditionally, and I never judge you (except for when you feed our neighbor's crazy cat. With what should be my salmon. Ruff.). I protect you with my life, and I am some of your best medicine.

When it was just the two of us, I helped alleviate your feelings of loneliness and isolation. Was there ever a boring moment with me around? Nope! And I kept you socializing: together we met all kinds of new humans and their pets, in training school, prowling the 'hood, and of course at the dog park. In fact, if it weren't for me, you wouldn't have met your hubbin' that day at the beach, when I grabbed his burger on the sly and took off under the boardwalk!

For a while there, you weren't sure if you would have children. Because of me, your new relationship incorporated another being (me) and you both began to co-parent. Together I helped you reconnect to your own childhoods, and experience the world with wonder once again. This brought you closer than ever, and helped set the stage for baby!

After you had baby Jake, you needed a fitness partner. Fortunately for you, I have never been a procrastinator when it comes to taking a walk! Actually, forget the walk: I had you running around our block thrice, 2 times daily. Remember the time I lost all rationale, and practically re-sowed farmer Matt's flower garden looking for that garden snake? That was a great lower body work-out day, right? 1200 calories later, I was helping you get your bitchin' body back.

I have always had a knack for reducing stress in your life. Somehow, I just know what to do when you're ailing. Remember the time you had a slipped disk, and you were in so much pain? Knowing this I did what anyone who loved you would do: I distracted you! How? By knawing the heel off your new Louboutin. Pain in back, forgotten! Ok fine, you were still stressed. But after a time-out (me, again), we nuzzled and rubbed, and in a few licks you were successfully in touch with a master shoe-repairman. Up and at 'em!

Finally, I am a great influence on little boy Jake. Because I am so unconditional, I help teach him about being unconditional, too. In taking care of me, he is learning how to take care of others (including himself), and growing up to be such a compassionate young man. I am so ruffing proud.

Love is all you need, right Sage? And me love you long time.

XO, Buster

Photo Credit: bdwaydiva1

Chompin' At The Savoy - Picking The Right Chew Toy

Ok friends, today I'm throwing you all a bone! If there's one thing we dogs, cats and otherwise can agree on, it's that we like to get down with a good gnaw. It satisfies a primal urge within us, helps keep our teeth clean and breath fresh, and is just paws down good fun!

Sadly, many of my friends in the past have been injured during chew time. Large amounts of rawhide can cause bloating and obstructions, cooked bones are brittle and can tend to splinter into nasty pieces. And one of my fabulous feline ladies once spent a night in the bathtub, after attacking her owner's Manolo that looked identical to her satiny plaything. Poor pussy.

It seems pretty clear to me that our humans would love to help us satisfy our natural instinct to chew, but not all nibbles are created equal! First of all, a few things must be considered:

- What kind of a chewer are you? Are you the circling, pouncing, mow-down-in-2-minutes type? A longer lasting rubber toy might be your best bet, like the Kong (my personal fave). Perhaps you like to savor every tiny bit and piece, in which case a more natural selection would be best - pig's ears, anyone?

- How big are you? Your chops should be able to get that toy right to the back of your molars, but not all the way in your mouth. ACK! No choking hazards, please!

- Know yourself: if you like to break off pieces to eat, that toy better be ingestible. And make sure when to dig and bury - anything small enough to fit into your mouth is a choking hazard.

- Are you a messy eater? No pet wants to be reprimanded for going to town on his or her toy, Where's the fun in that? Make sure that toy won't leave stains anywhere.

- If you love the real thing, make eyes at an uncut beef bone. They can be found at butcher shops, and are ruffing awesome. And again, yea Dogs forgo the cooked bones! Unless you want a ride to the hospital, which I know you most certainly do not.

Chewsing a chew toy means knowing yourself, and how to stay safe. There's more to getting boned (or ragged, or balled, or konged) than chomping down. Take care, and to thine pet selves, be chew!

Love, Buster (aka Chew-bakka)

Photo Credit: leozaza

Photo Credit: ritingonthewall

Walk The Dog (And Cat, And Rabbit, And Ferret)

Walk, walk, walk, lucky dog, lucky dog, I'm a lucky dog, straight into traffic ACK! Walk, walk, walk, luckylucky, let's smell that flower ACK! Walk, walk, walk, there'sasquirrelrunforit ACK!

That was my typical daily monologue in my early years, when my human Sage first started to train me. We would walk together every day, me on my leash next to her. That ACK! was me choking every time she yanked my chain, which was what a breeder had suggested she do. It was terrible for me, my throat hurt, my skin pinched. Impawssible.

Thankfully, on one of my morning yanks Sage and I ran into our dog training friend. He took one look at my "choke chain" and told Sage to chuck it. Why? As he explained, I had passed the training stage, and no longer needed to be corrected with power-steering. And in fact, the collar she was using might actually encourage me to pull harder! Instead, he suggested, Sage needed to outfit me with a comfortable, adjustable harness. When on leash, she would be able to maintain control and haul me back in, without choking me to death. We went shopping!

Pet harnesses are necessary for all kinds of reasons. There are the obvious safety reasons: keeping the bigguns away from the li'l uns, keeping the cats from hauling tail up a tree (and not coming down), protecting us from traffic. There are medical reasons, like when one of us has a sensitive trachea or coughing issues, and in these cases harnesses help support us. Harnesses also keep us from slipping out of our collars, but won't leave us hanging (if you know what I mean. ACK!).

Here are some tips when choosing a harness:

- Shop with measurements. You'll know the harness will fit! A harness should be snug, but not too tight.

- Make sure the harness is adjustable. It will fit properly, and will expand if pet does. While you're at it, check to make sure the thickness of the harness straps are proportional for the size of pet.

- Pick a type: training (yes, it can be done without the choke), H-harness, car belt (buckle up baby!).

Things to avoid:

- Harnesses that are not adjustable.

- Bulky, thick leather - too uncomfortable! Try a harness made from soft cotton or bamboo.

There are some great sites selling harnesses. Some of my faves:

Gentle Leader

Scrappy Pet

Kitty Holster

Rabbit Harness

Ferret Couture

So who wants to go for a W-A-L-K? Oh yeah, I see those wagging tails and twitching whiskers! Now before you fetch your leash for your human, make sure it's the right kind.

Get lucky!

Love, Buster

Photo Credit: shamanic-shift

Got Milk (Thistle)?

Ok, listen up all you booze-hounds and cats. This is a bit of a sobering article. Many of us need serious liver support, for all kinds of reasons: cat and dog liver disease, dog cushings disease...

I wanted to give you all a yap about an incredible ingredient, because it's so ruffing important!

Since writing to you about how our humans create treatments for us pets, I've been reading up about milk thistle. Many of our Mediterranean, N. African and Middle Eastern kin will know the flowering plant, which grows leaves mottled with milky looking splashes. Humans have used milk thistle for like 14,000 doggie years (2,000 in human) to treat stomach problems, liver ailments and bitchiness (I think they call it PMS, but I digress).

When it comes to the liver, the active ingredient called silymarin ap-paw-ently protects the cells by removing and blocking toxins. It can also stimulate cell regeneration. Milk thistle has become a majorly important ingredient in our beast world: recently one of my beagle brothers, Bill, was part of a study wherein silymarin protected him from the toxic effects of mushroom poisoning (Dog, some brothers will eat anything. Sigh. Don't let us near fungus of any kind - read my article on Foods To Avoid HERE).

Silymarin is generally given in tablet or capsule form (hack hack! It makes me gag just thinking about it), but buck up buddies: your human will easily be able to add it to food. You won't notice a thing, except how amazing you'll eventually feel. You'll be jumping for joy!

To your health, Buster

Photo Credit: adamwilson

Don't Feed The Animals - Foods To Avoid

There is a reason why humans teach us not to beg for food. Besides the fact that it is really, really annoying to them (and my friends, we are choosers and not beggars), people food is just not pet food. Yes, we pets would do very well indeed on a diet of fresh vegetables, oils, and protein. But not on a people plate, and not drenched in sauces and followed by dessert. If it's up to me, I poo-poo that party platter before it can make a pooper outta me. Know what I'm, yapping?

Digestion issues aside, allowing pets to eat human food can result in far worse problems. Allergic reactions, organ damage and even death can all be avoided by keeping us away from the pantry. In keeping with my vow to help my fellow beasts stay safe, behold a list of DON'T EAT THESE (capitals intended):

Chocolate: especially cocoa powder and baking chocolate. Lock the pantry! Theobromine is the compound that gets us, which is a cardiac stimulant and diuretic. Just because we look fine after eating it, don't assume we're ok. Sickness and death can happen up to a day after eating! Symptoms include staggering, labored breathing, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, tremors, fever, heart rate increase, arrhythmia, seizures, coma, death.

Raw Eggs: Look, we're not body builders, ok? Avidin is an enzyme in raw egg whites that can lead to skin/hair/coat problems. Salmonella also might be present.

Gum: Yeah, yeah, yeah. We've all heard that awkward family tale about one of our brothers or sisters running around with a bubble blowing out of their behinds. I'm bursting that bubble right now, by telling you that additives in commercial gum can decrease blood sugar, potentially causing death. Don't blow it! *Humans shouldn't be eating it, either.

Onions and Garlic: Your human will be crying long after they've cut and cooked these bad bulbs. If we get our chomps on one of these, not only will we burn out our mouths, but we can be poisoned up to a few days after eating. Pets poisoned by onions will develop haemolytic anemia, where our red blood cells burst while circulating in our body. Symptoms include labored breathing, liver damage, vomiting, diarrhea, and discoloured urine.

Cow Milk: Come on. It's baby food, and it's not even OUR baby food. No way are our bodies going to be able to digest it. Enuff said?

Grapes and Raisins: Eating these nibbles can cause kidney failure and death. Times that by 100, if they're chocolate coated. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and lethargy, kidney failure and even death.

Mushrooms: As they are for humans, mushrooms can be beyond psychedelic: they can be fatal. Don't eat them, period. Symptoms include conversations with DOG, abdominal pain, drooling, liver damage, kidney damage, vomiting, diarrhea, convulsions, coma, and death.

Raw Fish: No, Japanese pets don't eat sushi! A compound called thiaminases can break down our Vitamin B1. Loss of appetite, seizures, and in severe cases, death are known problems associated with raw fish consumption in cats. Can it (instead)!

Avacadoes: All animals need to avoid this fruit (yes, it is. It grows on trees. Look it up, dawg). Persin is a poison found mostly in the pit, but spreads throughout even to the skin. We reject it from both ends, you dig?

Macadamia Nuts: I don't care how many Menahune Men you've stalked and chewed apart -don't make these part of your Hawaiian vacation. Their high phosphorus content is said to possibly lead to bladder stones. Dogs develop a tremor of the skeletal muscles, and weakness or paralysis of the hindquarters. Affected dogs are often unable to rise and are distressed, usually panting. Some affected dogs have swollen limbs and show pain when the limbs are manipulated.

Other Animal Food: Cat food is for cats, dog food for dogs. Human food for humans. Each is designed for the mouth it feeds. The point of this article. Heed!

Bones: So yes, I have a bone to pick. Next week I will be advising what sorts of bones are great for us to eat, but for the most part they are no-nos. Why? Brittle and sharp, these bones can break apart after eating them and puncture us on the inside. For us, it's like eating glass. No!

So the next time a well meaning human tries to tempt you with a turkey-looking-tidbit - and I'm not saying bite the hand that feeds here, but - definitely give it your coldest shoulder. Stick with your own tasty goodness, and keep yourself safe!

I'm off for kibble, Buster

Photo Credit: 35188692@N00

We Remember You

Bark Bark! To the horses, cats, dogs and other animal brothers and sisters whose lives served to help save other lives.

And to their humans, who needed them to love, stay warm, and keep their faith - and whose lives served to save other lives, too.

Thank you. We remember you all.

Love, Buster

Photo Credit: jono2k5

My Dog Had Fleas - Neem To The Rescue

Being the naturalist that I am, I usually know where in nature to turn when I feel a little ruff. A certain rumble in my tummy tells me to chew some grass, a few licks to a hurt and I'm as good as healed.

Humans, like us animals, have always turned to nature when it comes to treating ailments. While we keep things simple: eat grass, poop out, they use more sophisticated methods: get in shiny horse, herd bottles, consume insides of bottles like treats, etc. I don't know what's inside those bottles, but I know those little treats don't grow on trees by themselves! Humans, being the masters, take their grasses and leaves and make treats, drinks, and baths as remedies. I bark: whatever makes you better, friends.

As simple as I am, I know that there are some things that I can't always fix. What I end up needing is a dose of those humanified treats/drinks/baths to help me. Take for example the time when I had an itch that I just couldn't scratch. It was late springtime, aka flea season, and I had become a complete flea-bag. Not only could I not sleep (have you ever tried to zzz through a nocturnal 3-ring circus? I almost lost my doggie-mind), but I kept my family awake with my obsessive itching and licking. Itchyitchyitchyitchyitchy!

After one particularly mad all-nighter (imagine a burning inferno to the tune of da da dadadada da da da da on warp speed for 8 hours), my human Sage took matters into her own hands. I'm not one for baths, but my instincts told me that the bar of soap in her hand, smelling like a bad onion, was exactly what I needed. She lathered, I soaked, and I watched as hundreds of those flea-clowns jumped ship. That night all was cool and quiet on my back and front, and my itching-scratching-licking-biting was minimal. I slept like a pup.

Turns out my human (hot dog she's smart) had used a special soap with the bug-busting herb,neem. An evergreen tree found in India, neem has been a natural pesticide and bug repellent for centuries. All parts of the tree are used: seeds, leaves, flowers, and even its bark (no pun intended). Humans use neem to treat their own pests, too (worms, pimples, and fevers). I understand that the oil and parts of neem can be made into soaps, shampoos, and even teas and treats. I myself have been the dogful recipient of Neem Soap , and since the circus came to my town I have been almost flea-free.

I could have done my doggie business until the cows came home, but I never could have evicted those critters myself. Thank dogness for Sage and her Neem Soap! It wasn't my odor of choice - I prefer wet dog or fermenting food - but after relief like that I'll odorize with bad onion any day. And I'll take human help whenever I can get it!

Love, Buster

Now Hear This! Pet Ears And Infections

Do your ears hang low, can you wave them to and fro? Can you tie them in a knot, can you tie them in a bow? Of course not. That would hurt like heck and obviously we pets are not about causing ourselves undue pain.
Yap.
Besides, our ears are particularly sensitive. Ask any pet: tug, pull or scratch us a little too hard and out come the fangs. We can't help it.

Our ears are super vulnerable too, when it comes to certain ailments. Animal ears offer the perfect breeding ground for germs: warm, moist and rather protective. We get ear infections really easily!

Ear infections are important to notice and treat, right away. Infections can usually be one of a few things:

Bacterial: Pups and kitties with longer, fuzzier and/or floppier ears can have less airflow than small-eared pets - making them especially prone to this kind.

Symptoms: You could see discharge, redness, swelling and/or pain. If it looks like we're shaking our heads "no" all day long, consider it a symptom (and not our complete defiance).

Fungal: Just like mushrooms, fungus loves to grow in warm, moist dark places. Again, the ears are prime real estate. Like humans, animals all have healthy, friendly yeast present in our bodies. But poor diets and unhealthy lifestyles can cause a yeast imbalance, making us prone to this sort of infection. Fungus can spread to the face and paws too, so early treatment is key.

Symptoms: Discharge, redness, swelling, scaling, dryness, oozing and intense itching.

Parasites: Tiny, micro bugs. They breed inside the ear canal, lowering immunity and making the infected pet more prone to bacteria or fungus. Mites are ruffing contagious, in fact if you live with more than one pet you all have to be treated together!

Symptoms: Lots of scratching, possible loss of balance and occasionally nausea or refusal to eat. Inside the ear will have a residue like coffee grounds.

Most vets love to prescribe antibiotics for the above infections. They work alright, by killing off practically everything - not just the bad stuff! Our healthy bacteria get the axe too, making our bodies even more vulnerable to another attack. As long as an infection is attended to pronto, natural herbal formulations can work just as well - and sometimes pull double duty, like ER Drops which can fight mites and fungus. And natural remedies help our own immune systems fight back, so we stay strong!

Common ear infections are most easily treated. But as I always bark: prevention is key! The best way to prevent ear infections from happening is by having your human clean your ears often. I clean once a week (my day is Sunday, Dog's Day. Stinkiness is usually next to doginess, but when it comes to the ears: cleanliness. Dig?). A weekly ear cleaning with a pet pro-ear cleaning solution will help. And your human will be able to see into your ears, catching an infestation or infection before they get worse.

Finally, live well! A proper diet and healthy lifestyle will keep immune systems strong. What better way to prevent ailments?

We're never itchy-scratchy for any reason. Leaving a symptomatic pet alone can lead to bigger problems including: inner ear infections (hOWl! Intense pain and discomfort!), and possible hearing loss (what the ruff did you say? I can't hear a thing!). Immediate attention is crucial.

Hear that?

Thanks for listening, Buster

Think Pet Is Sick? How To Tell

I'm usually in top dog shape! But every once in a while I over-eat something, over-scratch something, or over-lick something. And then, I end up feeling like one poopy-pup.

Lucky-dog me, my human Sage always knows how to help me. But for most humans, recognising when a pet has a case of the yacks can be hard to tell.

Lately I've been running around with my dawgs at doggie daycare. Like most preschoolers, we tend to pass bugs back and forth (I blame the red-headed bitch with the long, silky ears - she always has a runny nose. She's cute, but contagious. We don't share toys). This morning I woke up, not feeling my normal bouncing border collie self. I felt achy, droopy, sleepy, and just generally wrong.

Even though I ate my breakfast (it takes a lot for me to deprive myself) I almost hacked it up. Which I never do.

By mid-morning I was a coughing, wheezing mess. In my case, I had developed a crazy case of kennel cough. In addition to diffusing a lovely smelling aromatherapy blend of lavender, my human Sage went to work to make me as comfortable as possible.

A long stroke-session and a course of Respiratory Aid have done wonders, obviously.

Since most pets can't speak human, and vice versa, we have no "OMD (OMCat, OMHamster, OMRat etc) I'm sick, get me some hot beef broth stat" - speak abilities. Thankfully, my human Sage is hip to my wag-less-ness, which she always wisely takes to mean I'm sick.

Some things humans should look out for:
- We don't eat - show me a dog or a cat who can say no to something stinky, and I'll show you a sick animal. Same goes for the little guys and their pellets. Enough said.

- We don't want to move - come on, we love to play. Go out of your way to tempt us with a new toy - if we don't bite, bark for the vet.

- We withdraw - while some of us are Scorpios (withdrawal is a typical trait, confirm it with this month's horoscope), most of us just want to be alone when we're sick. It's not you, it's us - and it always means something's not right!

- We're burning up - if we're not eating and we're not playing, we're not busy burning calories. Clearly then, a fever is a sign that our bodies are burning up to fight a germ.

- We're limping, swelling, oozing, bleeding, or smelling - translation: we have a serious infection, and we have pain! Help, help, help, help, help!

Any symptom above is reason to take your beloved beast to the vet, to ensure a proper diagnosis. In most cases it's probably an allergy, virus or bacteria. The latter set, though, can indicate more than a nasty cold: some of us eat things we shouldn't, or dig around in places we shouldn't. Swellings shaped like shoes, infected wounds and broken bones need to be attended to immediately, so don't delay!

Air-licks (I'm not getting you pals sick), Buster

Paws In The Air, Bitches!

My pack and I have a friend, Friska*, aka Tiny Trouble. As her name suggests, she is one crazy kitty. There's not one place she won't pounce to keep herself amused. Annoying, yes - cute, super. And so, we her loyal friends put up with her monkey business (I've got the swat marks to prove it). She's a kitten with 10 lives, and unless her human gives her a momentary time out there's nothing stopping her. But in other parts of our great country, Miss Mischief would be clawing metal and chowing Meow Mix for 20 - her shenanigans would have her put away! Or at least her human fined big bucks. In other words, she'd be treatless for life.

In keeping with my vow to advise and protect my fellow beasts, I have collected the most outrageous pet laws in our very own land for your pet-i-fication. Take note:

In Ohio, it is against state law to get a fish drunk (even though some humans drink like one).

In Boulder, Colorado, it is illegal to "own" a pet - the town's citizens, legally speaking, are merely "pet minders". I had to include this one, yip-yip-hooray!

In Kingsville, Texas, it's illegal for two pigs to have sex in the city's airport. Obviously.

In Norfolk, Virginia, it's illegal for hens to lay eggs before 8 am and after 4 pm. We all need to sleep.

In New Jersey, ducks aren't allowed to quack after 10 pm. Quackers in bed = crumby, we all know that. No fun!

In Quitman, Georgia, it's against the law for a chicken to cross any road within the city limits... but presumably it's ok outside the city limits. But only to get to the other side.

In McDonald, Ohio, farmers can't walk a goose down a city street. And poultry, particularly roosters, are not allowed to go into bakeries in Massachusetts. No one wants to see all their eggs in one basket - I approve.

In Kansas, it's illegal for chicken thieves to work during daylight hours. They would get caught, hell-ooooo!

In Pennsylvania, it's illegal to shoot bullfrogs on a Sunday. Dog's day, people. No work please.

In Vermont, you can be fined if your pig runs in a public park without the permission of a selectman. Otherwise it's a performance, and pigs are only licensed for one thing: bacon. Well, maybe also ham.

French Lick Springs, Indiana, passed a law requiring all black cats to wear bells on Friday the 13th. Blame the French.

Madison, Wisconsin, will not allow joint custody of a family pet when a couple gets divorced. I have nothing on this one.

In Texas, it's illegal to put graffiti on someone else's cow. But you can decorate your own until they all come home - of course.

Horses may not wear cowbells inside the city limits of Tahoe City, California.

In Washington, every cow wandering the streets of Seattle must wear a cowbell. They trade places often with their Californian cousins, and no one is the wiser.

In Burns, Oregon, horses are allowed in the town's pubs and bars, if they pay an admission fee. See: you can lead a horse to the watering hole, but you can't make him drink. Or something like that.

You can't blow your nose in public places in Leahy, Washington, because it might scare a horse and cause it to panic. Which leads them to drink.

So, I understand that sometimes we just can't repress our animal instincts, but if you find yourselves wanting to do THESE things in THESE places, keep it on the downlow. Dig?

Love your pal, Buster

*The name in this story has been changed to protect her true pet identity.

Win A $250.00 Gift Certificate From PetWellbeing!

Hey my little furry (and sometimes hairless) friends, it's contest time again! Many of us have been seriously helped by PetWellbeing's amazing products - and your humans are the ones we should thank! And what do humans love just as much as us? Winning something.

Want to help your humans - and in your case kitties, your staff - win a heap of fabulous prizes? Of course you do (in other words: more treats for you!). Get them to send us a testimonial that tells how a PetWellbeing product has changed your life, and your human will automatically be entered into a draw!

First Prize
$250.00 online gift certificate and a dog/cat drinking fountain (no more excuses for that white bowl, pals!)

Second Prize
1 of 2 $125.00 online gift certificate and a dog/cat collar (bling!)

Third Prizes
1 of 2 replacement bottles of your favourite product
1 of 2 cat food
1 of 2 dog food
1 of 1 cat fountain
1 of 1 dog fountain

All they need to do is send in the following information:

- Their human name
- Your name and age (in human years please)
- Your city or town
- The testimonial: what product they gave to you, why, and how it worked for you
- Would they recommend it to a friend?
- Tell us what their favorite local newspaper is
- Tell us their trusted source for pet information ex. blogs, magazines, websites - and their sites/names

They can send their testimonial to Violet at petwellbeing dot com by December 11.

Don't miss this chance to help your human spoil YOU - their beloved pet this holiday season! I'll do a bark-out for the winner December 15th on my blog and in our holiday newsletter, so be sure to have them join our feed if they haven't already! Winner will be contacted by email/phone prior to announcement, so make sure you include your proper contact information!

Not to disappoint, but it won't be me calling. I'm not allowed to dial.

Good luck!

Your pal, Buster

Legal Dawg-ument stuff: Contest closes December 11/09. Registered members will automatically be eligible for the contest/draw after emailing required information to PetWellbeing courtesy of violet at petwellbeing dot com . Entries generated by a script, macro, robotic or other automated means will be disqualified. Duplicated registrations will also be disqualified too. Prizes will be - First Prize $250.00 online gift certificate and a dog/cat drinking fountain - Second Prize 1 of 2 $125.00 online gift certificate and a dog/cat collar - Third Prize 1 of 2 replacement bottles of your favourite product, 1 of 2 cat food, 1 of 2 dog food, 1 of 1 cat fountain, 1 of 1 dog fountain. The contest/draw winners will be selected randomly, and must not have been awarded any other prizes by PetWellbeing during the contest/draw. Winners will be notified by PetWellbeing by email/phone within one week after the contest closed. Winners will receive their prizes within one month after the contest has closed. PetWellbeing reserves the right to make any changes to the contest/draw rules at any time without prior notification, and reserves the right to replace any prize with another of up to equivalent value without notice. PetWellbeing also reserves the right to disqualify any members/entries without having to enter into any correspondence on their decisions. PetWellbeing reserves the right to, in their discretion, cancel, vary or suspend the contest/draw should technical errors or other causes beyond Pet Wellbeing's control affect the administration, security or proper operation of the contest/draw. PetWellbeing is not required to enter into any correspondence regarding the administration of the contest/draw, and its decision on any matter is final. Should you have any questions regarding this contest/draw, please send your inquiry via violet at petwellbeing dot com . Information collected through the contest/draw by PetWellbeing can and may be used for purposes of marketing and advertising, printed or online. All names and contact information collected will remain strictly confidential and will only be used if/when PetWellbeing needs to contact registrant. All names and contact information collected will be changed in the event that information collected is used for marketing and advertising, printed or online. Registrants agree upon entrance of draw by email that they agree with and will comply with the rules/regulations of the contest/draw.

Photo Credit: kimrose...

Introducing Pet and New Baby

How I Coped With The New Addition (Not Well, Apparently, But Boy Is My Human Smart)! I love human babies. I love the way they smell, I love the way they laugh, I love the way they eat (it's everywhere, I get to lick it off) - and when they start solids, oh my Dog. Do I feel lucky.
I can say this now, since my favorite little human is a fine, strapping young man who was once a foreign blob - we've had time to learn how to appreciate each other. But pre-kid, I knew nothing. And that not knowing almost ran me - and my human Sage - up the wall.

Sage and I were the best twosome on the planet. She brought me home as a puppy and fostered my intense border collie nature, giving me beyond enough stimulation to temper my stalking needs. I never even tried to manipulate her with my wily collie ways - she had me at "that'll do". I grew, and our routine together remained a blissful combo of noshing, fetching, walking, gallivanting, and grooming. Mine was definitely a dog's life.

And then one day, Sage had a new pet. It was a strange one, one that I was not familiar with - it was attached to her belly. "What IS that?" I thought, before I yipped. And yipped, and yipped, and yipped.

It appeared as though she liked petting it more than me, too.

The more it grew, the less time she seemed to spend with me. Where we once had adventures together through the woods around our house, I was now relegated more often to the back yard to the tune of foreboding words like "tugging" and "pulling". Being the boundless creature of energy that I am, I took the opportunity to carve a perfect circle into the earth with my paws; possessing a rather creative flair I imagined decorating it with bones or socks.

I became curiously obsessed with daily happenings, and the need to continually broadcast, "The curtain is moving! The curtain is moving! The curtain is moving" or "The cat is near! The cat is near! The cat is near!".

I got hoarse.

Don't get me wrong, my human Sage spent lots of time petting, brushing and loving me, but things just weren't the same. And I felt it.

I couldn't take it anymore. One day I finally totally regressed into my terrible-twos - major chewing, major destruction. Temper Tantrum Central - Dawg, I took the ride to Bad Pup Town! I was out of control. It was when Sage arrived home that afternoon to find me cramming my chops with pillow stuffing, that I think we both knew things had to change. I hung my tail in shame - she popped a hit of Matricalm for Dogs into my mouth. I tasted, I swallowed. I gave her my "My Dog, you're right! I never would've thought of that!" face. And then I napped.

When I woke, I felt at peace. Sage was not around, and in her place was her sister who began to leave strange, sweet smelling things around the house. Normally a new blanket or sock would be "paws off" territory, but this time around it was all free game. I mean she practically threw the newbie stuff at me! I investigated, I licked, I rolled, I circled. I slept with my new pack. I was happy.

And then, Sage came back with a new bundle that smelled EXACTLY like my herd. Was I glad to see her! And if I may woof, relatively calm. I knew what to do. Sitting obediently by her side, I waited patiently until she gave the signal to approach for pet. I obeyed, I reaped the caressing reward. And when I finally got to meet the new addition, it was puppy love all over again. I just knew everything was going to be ok.

For many families the arrival of a new baby can be an exciting, but challenging time. So many of my cat and dog pals have spent one too many nights in the dog house, only because they didn't know how to manage the feelings that came with the changes. Sage and I both swear by Matricalm, which helped bring me back to dog, and a collection of tips our friends at the Humane Society put together. Check them out here:

www.hsus.org/pets/pet_care/introducing_your_pet_and_new_baby.html

Will I ever lose my cool in the face of change again? I don't think so, baby.

And now I hope, neither will you.

Your pal, Buster

Happy Birthday Scorpio!

A little obsessive compulsiveness never hurt anyone: i.e. I am obsessed with my new doggie Kong (paws down the best chew toy ever), i.e. my feline friend Sheba compulsively hunts for critters on her owners' farm (she loves it, they love it, love all around)...

We furry family members are simple and instinctive.

Big breath, read fast: you, Scorpio, tend to find yourself clawing at anything softer than cement or spinning at 75 mph while yapping unstoppably, and this, well, this kind of compulsive/obsessive behavior is, really, not your best side - even though it is rather passionate and exciting (2 qualities from your better side).

And while you're at it, you tend to bury your feelings like a bone, causing you to withdraw and isolate. Talk about a moody creature!

Don't stress, you intense thing you - for this birthday give yourself, and your owner (and the furniture) a break with Lesstress for Cat or Dog. It's the perfect treatment for both hyperactive/hypermoody Stressor and Stressee! Chill out dear Scorp, and let your powerful magnetism shine through - you'll be sitting in your fave human's luxurious lap just in time to enjoy your special day.

Your pal, Buster