PetWellbeing Articles

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

noreply@blogger.com (Buster) — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 17:40:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (Buster) — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 05:55:00 +0000

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)

noreply@blogger.com (Buster) — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 03:01:00 +0000

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:

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)?

noreply@blogger.com (Buster) — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 06:34:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (Buster) — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 19:33:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (Buster) — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 20:21:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (Buster) — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 19:57:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (Buster) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 00:31:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (Buster) — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 05:19:00 +0000

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!

noreply@blogger.com (Buster) — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:29:00 +0000

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!

noreply@blogger.com (Buster) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 06:05:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (Buster) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 01:19:00 +0000

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!

noreply@blogger.com (Buster) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 18:14:00 +0000

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

Video: What is Kennel Cough?

noreply@blogger.com (Libbi) — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 15:00:00 +0000

Any dog can contract Kennel Cough and this video explains exactly what it is, what it sounds like and how to help your dog.

How To Keep Your Pet Safe On Halloween

noreply@blogger.com (Libbi) — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 15:00:00 +0000

Ah the fall season is upon us once more. The chill in the air, the leaves turning orange and brown, the gardens bounty has been harvested, the goblins are knocking at the door… Wait a minute…GOBLINS? Oh that's right, it's Halloween again!

Being that it is Halloween, you will probably want to show your cat or dog off to the world so that they too can see how much of a little devil or angel they can really be. However you need to keep in mind that your pet may not be as receptive to the idea. The ASPCA makes the following recommendations when choosing a costume for your pet:

* Make sure you go slow and reward your pet so that they are comfortable with the idea of wearing something.

* Examine the costume and remove anything that could be chewed off or be a choking hazard.

* Check the fit of the costume so that there are no restrictions to movement, sight or hearing.

* A loose costume may get them caught on something causing them injury.

* If for any reason your animal companion is not comfortable with the idea, consider a festive bandanna or collar.

* Masks are nice for people, but a dog may have issues with them blocking peripheral vision. Enlarge eye holes if possible for added security, as sometimes even a secure dog may get snippy when frightened.

* No matter how your pet's collar looks with their costume keep it on them and make sure your pet's info is up to date.

Other Things To Consider

Is your pet scared of big hats or masks on you or other people? Our beloved canine family members see us all the time and associate what we look like on a regular basis as the 'norm'. So here we have a holiday where we dress up in bizarre clothing, big hairdos, masks, fake weapons, and strange hats and masks, and our pets may become frightened or aggressive towards these objects thinking that they are harming us. Introduce these objects slowly, lay them out, let them sniff them, see you hold them and remember to offer reassurance that the objects are ok and not going to harm you or them.

If you are having an indoor party for Halloween, make sure you take extra precautions for your pet's safety. Keep all people treats out of reach of drooling mouths, and remind house guests that feeding them is not allowed. Keep in mind that your pets may have problems with the noise of the party, strange costumes on your guests and the constant knocking on the door from the neighborhood goblins. You may consider showing off your dressed pets for a little while before settling them down for the night in a separate room with food, treats, water and other entertainment until the night's festivities are over. If you decide to keep them out, make sure all decorative candles and Jack-O-Lanterns are out of reach from inquisitive cat noses and wagging dog tails. Another thing to keep an eye on is escaping pets when the door opens, they may just want to go trick or treating on their own.

Outdoors on Halloween is truly a frightful time for your pets. Strangely dressed people walking around and intruding on the property to trick or treat are a minor concern compared to the untold thousands of pets injured by maliciously intent youths and other human predators. Across the U.S. there has been many horrific tales of peoples' pets being harassed, injured, stolen, tortured and even murdered on Halloween. Even pet shops and rescue shelters are aware of the brutality of some people and refuse to sell or adopt out black cats around Halloween. This is due to several so called sacrifices or rituals and other brutal things done to them in the name of 'wannabe' Satanists and Witches. There are even stories of youth who are on a sugar buzz going around setting dogs ablaze in their owner's backyards just for 'fun'.

And of course there is the candy. While yes we humans love the foil wrapped chocolaty treats on this eerie holiday they are fatal to our lovable pets. No matter how much they whine, beg or do playful tricks, never give a dog chocolate. Chocolate contains Theobromine and as little as 50 grams of chocolate can poison a dog; and remember that an once of bakers chocolate contains 450mg of Theobromine! The wrappers are another safety concern as well, as they may eat them causing a blockage and require expensive medical procedures to remove. There are several homemade treats available that you can either buy or make yourself for your favorite animal this spooky holiday Halloween.

Photo Credit: Beau B

National Cat Day

noreply@blogger.com (Libbi) — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 18:53:00 +0000

Thursday, 29 October, 2009, is National Cat Day.

It is a national holiday designed to celebrate cats for all of their unconditional love and loyalty that they give to us. It is also a day to accept new cats and kittens into our lives through fostering and adoption.

Pet Lifestyle Expert and Animal Behaviorist, Colleen Paige, founded National Cat Day in an effort to help educate the public on the vast numbers of cats sitting in animal shelters across the US waiting for a forever home.

Ms. Paige also hoped to encourage owners of cats to celebrate the cat or cats in their life for the companionship that they provide.

The Animal Miracle Network

The objective of the National Cat Day is to assist in at least 10,000 adoptions of shelter cats throughout the USA on 29 October. National Cat Day is one of the multiple national holiday events dedicated to dogs, cats, horses and other animals and pets, which have been established by The Animal Miracle Network.

The Animal Miracle Network is a network that aims to connect animal rescue organizations, animal shelters, and animal related businesses with like minded animal lovers who care deeply about helping homeless animals to find new, forever homes through their direct involvement in national holiday events.

These national holiday events allow animal lovers the opportunity to honor their dearly loved pets with a special holiday dedicated solely to them and to the unconditional way in which they bestow their love upon their human caretakers.

These national animal holidays also allow animal shelters and rescue organizations with an opportunity to raise awareness of the many cats and kittens currently residing in the shelters and in foster care arrangements.

The Animal Miracle Network's main ambition is to assist in finding homes for all of America's homeless animals. They also approve of the disabling of puppy mills and are against Breed Specific Legislation. Pet shops that sell animals and other businesses that deal in animal fur products are not allowed to vend at any of the national events that are sponsored by The Animal Miracle Network. They are also big advocates for spaying and neutering of cats and dogs.

This year's National Cat Day will be the first year that The Animal Miracle Network will endeavor to track the total number of cats adopted from animal shelters and rescue organizations throughout the USA. Whilst this is a first for the cats, the National Dog Day event in previous years has surpassed their yearly goals for dogs that are adopted by more than 12,000 dogs.

The founder of the National Cat Day, Colleen Paige, explains, "We put a lot of manpower into communicating with our affiliate event promoters and shelters around the country that signed up to participate. We'll only take credit for the numbers we directly receive from our adoption sources."

National Statistics

The Animal Miracle Network has estimated that there are about 4 million cats that arrive at various animal shelters and rescue organizations in the US each year. The majority of these cats are taken in because they lack the proper identification to locate their missing owners. The rest are handed over by their owners because they are not as appreciated as dogs are.

Sadly, approximately 1 to 2 million of these cats are euthanized each year before they have the opportunity of finding forever homes.

What Can You Do To Help?

Most probably you are already the caretaker to one or more lovable cats. If so you can take full advantage of this national holiday to totally spoil your kitty! Buy your cat a few new toys or some yummy treats.

"In this difficult economy, if all you can afford is time, spend some of it with your furry feline," says Paige. "That's more important to them then all the catnip in the world."

If you are able to adopt a cat, please visit your nearest animal shelter or contact your local cat rescue organization. Providing a forever home for homeless cat and giving it the love and attention it so deserves is one of the most selfless acts you can do.

If adopting or fostering a cat or kitten is not an option for you, you can still show your support for National Cat Day by volunteering to help out at your local animal shelter. You could volunteer to clean the cats' cages, or just simply play with them for a while.

Another great idea is to host your own event in honor of National Cat Day, such as a cat party or bake sale. You could donate any proceeds to your local animal shelter or cat rescue organization.

No matter what you do on 29 October just make sure that you celebrate all that cats have to offer.

Photo Credit: Mendocino Animal Care

The Halloween Cat

noreply@blogger.com (Libbi) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 16:00:00 +0000

Every American kid can pick out a Halloween cat: it's the black cat pictured with its back arched and fur all standing on end. The claws on each paw are extended, ready to pounce whilst seemingly hissing at the same time. The black cat has become a well known symbol of Halloween for many children.

But have you ever stopped to wonder how that came to be?

Demonic Black Cats

During the Middle Ages, the black cat was believed to be a companion to the devil, and along with her owner (who was usually deemed a Witch) were usually boiled in oil or burned at the stake. These cats were often blamed for everything that went wrong during the Middle Ages.

Another reason why people avoided black cats was because of the way in which they walked. Cats naturally walk quietly using the pads on their feet to step in and out of the dark shadows at night. This gave the cat the appearance of moving in and out of the darkness at will, making people believe that the black cat was part of the darkness. The fierce cry of black cat at night didn't help her reputation either!

The Witch's Familiar

Most women who were accused of being Witches during the Salem Witch trials were, in fact, single women who most probably had a cat for pure companionship. However, the rest of the villagers began to gossip, which eventually lead to the belief that the lonely women were Witches and their cats were their familiars.

The villagers soon believed that not only were the women Witches, but that they also morphed into cats to do the work of the devil.

In one of the trials, the 7 year old daughter of alleged Witch Martha Carrier, testified in court that "a cat, identifying herself as Martha Carrier, had carried her along to afflict people while her mother was in prison." Sadly, Martha Carrier was convicted and eventually hanged along with four other women on 19 August, 1692.

During a Witch trial in Scotland, one woman, obviously under the impression that if she confessed she would be spared her life, gave details of how her entire coven was transformed into cats by the devil. Apparently the devil would appear amongst the women whenever they gathered to do their spell work and shake his hands above their heads to turn them into cats.

Black cats were also said to help sorcerers and midwives with their herbal potions.

During the early settling of the American colonies, people believed that they could cure their tuberculosis by drinking a broth that was made from boiled black cat. However, very few people were willing to actually kill a black cat as they were afraid of the bad luck that would plague them for the rest of their lives. Thankfully, such cures were few and far between.

Sailors and Cats

No matter the country, Sailors the world over have forever held a fascination with cats. Sailors even believed that cats could forecast the weather and predict the outcome of any upcoming voyages. If a cat was meowing loudly, the Sailors believed that it foretold of a dangerous trip; whilst a cat playing happily would mean easy sailing. If a cat groomed herself against the grain of her fur, it meant that hailstorms were on their way; however, if a cat sneezed, it signified rain instead.

Sailors also believed that magic was stored at the end of a cat's tail. If a cat ran in front of a sailor it meant good luck, but if a cat crossed the path of a sailor it meant bad luck.

Cats were so revered by Sailors that they thought that if a cat was drowned, then they would surely follow suit. If a cat was tossed overboard, the Sailors believed terrible storms would eventually sink the ship.

Luck

Even if no ill-fated event happened to someone who witnessed a black cat crossing their path, it was said that it was still proof that the cat was involved with the devil.

Even though there are many negative superstitions surrounding black cats, there are just as many positive ones too. A sty could be healed by rubbing it with a black cat's tail. People in France believed that black cats could find hidden treasure: A black cat should be set loose at an intersection where 5 roads met; from there her fine nose would be able to sniff out a fortune for the person following her.

Because of all the superstitions and stories involving black cats, they have quickly become equated as a symbol of Halloween, along with Witches in pointy hats riding broomsticks, ghosts, goblins, ghouls, spiders and carved pumpkin Jack-O-Lanterns.

Photo Credit: Dawn

Do Pit Bulls Really Need To Be Banned?

noreply@blogger.com (Libbi) — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 17:42:00 +0000

In almost every large city in the USA today, there is talk of a ban against the Pit Bull.

The Ban

Miami, Cincinnati and Denver are three of the largest metropolitan areas in the USA that have city-wide bans on pit bulls.

The term pit bull is actually used to describe three different types of dogs: The American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier.

By the way, the pit bull ban in Denver applies to any dog that merely looks like a pit bull, regardless of their behaviorism.

Breed Specific Legislation

The basic definition of breed specific legislation (BSL) is that it bans or restricts certain types of dog breeds based solely on their appearance and being perceived as a 'dangerous' breed or type of dog.

A BSL breed ban normally insists that all dogs of a certain appearance be removed from the area in which the ban was initiated.

Keep in mind that breed specific legislation only applies to dogs of a certain appearance that have been targeted by the ban. It does not, however, take in consideration how the dog was bred, raised, and trained by its owner. This legislation also does not take into account the actual individual behavioral characteristics of the dog.

The Stigma

The media has done part of its job in that it has caused a sensation concerning pit bulls and has suggested to the public that they are the meanest, toughest dogs out there. News headlines are revolved around dog bites, where the dog was named a pit bull even though it was actually unidentified. It appears that
whenever a dog makes news and no-one can immediately identify it, it is labeled as a pit bull.

However, the majority of the media is not doing its job by not writing stories as unbiased as possible. They have instilled fear into people with their words regarding pit bulls.

The truth is that the stigma associated with the pit bull sprung from careless dog owners who failed to socialize and properly train their dogs. There are some dog owners who willingly leave their dog outside tied to a pole with no interaction whatsoever with its human family. And then these same owners wonder why their dog bit them?

Pit bulls have been used in dog fighting rings for many years and a spinoff of this has been their growing popularity amongst young people and gang members who wish to have a pit bull simply because of its tough looking exterior.

Ownership

Contrary to popular belief, pit bulls were once considered to be "America's Nanny Dog"! This title stems from many people considering the pit bull has a reliable and loving member of the family during the first half of this century.

During World War I, pit bulls were a symbol of American courage and were even featured in a series of patriotic wartime posters. Even before then, from 1890 to 1948, pit bulls were the most popular choice because they were considered as a good natured watchdog and family pet.

Television shows such as "The Little Rascals" during the 1930s, had an American Pit Bull Terrier named Petey as part of the cast. Another television show called "Our Gang" also featured a pit bull. The television show "Little House on the Prairie" had a pit bull named "Jack the Brindle dog" as the family's pet dog.

Even Helen Keller owned a faithful and loving pit bull.

Many pit bulls are owned, or have been owned, by a variety of celebrities including:
President Roosevelt, President Woodrow Wilson, Thomas Edison, Humphrey Bogart, Fred Astaire, Mary Tyler Moore, John Stewart, Ann Bancroft, and Brad Pitt.

As with any dog, a pit bull's behavior is a direct reflection of the care, training and love (or lack thereof) that their owners have instilled upon them.

Testing

A temperament test conducted by The National Canine Temperament Testing Association, found that the poodle, golden retriever, Border collie, English setter, German pointer, as well as numerous other breeds were considered likely to become more aggressive than pit bulls.

In fact, of the 122 breeds that were tested, the average score was only 77%; whilst pit bulls scored 95.2%.

The overall temperament of pit bulls is so great that the breed has been used as search and rescue dogs, therapy dogs, and service dogs.

Pit bulls are easily trained and actually do make wonderful household pets, but because of this, pit bulls have also been trained to be fighting dogs. This is the part that is exploited by newspaper hype.

For every negative news story concerning a pit bull, you will find at least three or four positive news stories as well. You just have to dig a little bit deeper.

Photo Credit: Lexus2D

Jennifer Aniston's Sick Dog

noreply@blogger.com (Libbi) — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 20:06:00 +0000

One of Hollywood's most well-known and loved actresses, Jennifer Aniston, is facing something that every dog owner faces at some point in time: the untimely illness and possible demise of her beloved dog, Norman.

Friends

Jennifer Aniston adopted Norman from the animal trainers who worked with her on the hit TV series 'Friends' during the mid 90s.

Now it appears that after recently discovering that Norman has severe health problems, Jennifer is beside her with worry that her only source of "unconditional love" will soon be gone.

Norman, is a 14 year old Corgi-Terrier Mix, and is suffering from arthritis and digestive problems, which has caused Jennifer to be concerned that his life is at serious risk.

A friend of Jennifer's was reported to have explained that:

"Norman has been Jennifer's constant companion during all her emotional upheavals."

Treatments

Like most dog owners, Jennifer is trying to do everything in her power to help Norman feel better and live longer, even if it means bringing tears to her own eyes.

Jennifer loves Norman so much that she apparently "breaks down" whenever he has to be given an injection.

Whenever Norman's personal veterinary technician arrives at Jennifer's house to administer an injection, Jennifer cries and has to leave the room. She immediately returns to comfort Norman as soon as the injection has been given.

It is rumored that Jennifer currently spends at least $250 per week on alternative treatments for Norman. This includes multiple Reiki sessions, canine massage sessions and doggie acupuncture each week. All of these therapies are designed to help with pain management in dogs, as well as to balance the pooch's Chakras to make him feel more comfortable and at ease.

One of Jennifer's spokespeople once told the press:

"Norman has been Jennifer's constant companion during all her emotional upheavals, but he suffers from aching joints and stiffness. Jennifer doesn't want to put him on medication just yet, so she has opted for doggy spa treatments from a licensed vet technician."

Whilst there are some dog owners who disagree with Jennifer's current treatment plan, saying that it is all a bit excessive etc, it does seem to all be working for Norman.

"Norman has more spring in his step these days," said a close friend.

Jennifer is certainly not shy about shelling out her hard-earned money to spare Norman's life and help him feel more happy and comfortable.

"When Norman started having joint stiffness and had a hard time getting up and walking, Jen hired a personal masseuse for him," said Jennifer's friend. "He's doing a lot better, but Jen is extremely paranoid about something else going wrong. Losing Norman would be a big blow."

Saying Goodbye

Jennifer is an avid dog lover and also owns a 3 year old white German Shepherd named Dolly. However, Norman has been a steady and reliable companion to Jennifer since he was adopted. Coming to terms with Norman's ill health is taking its toll on Jennifer.

A friend has commented: "Norman is old and hasn't been doing well. She's terrified her best friend could soon be gone."

However, Jennifer herself has been reported as saying:

"You have to say goodbye way too soon. It's just so sad. It makes me so sad. But their love is unconditional and I love that."

Defying Death

Norman has already defied death once before!

One weekend in January this year, he escaped from Jennifer's Malibu, California, beach home. He was spotted by a paparazzo, running rather dangerously close to the busy road right outside Jennifer's home.

The photographer managed to scoop up Norman after he narrowly escaped being hit by a car.

Oddly enough, another photographer snapped a video of the paparazzo hero returning Norman back to Jennifer's home.

Norman was reportedly unharmed in the incident.

On The Set

Jennifer is so fond of Norman that she takes him on set with her whenever she can whilst filming. Whilst this might allow Jennifer to spend more time with
Norman, it apparently is a cause of concern for a few of the film crew members.

One such crew member explained the problem with Norman being on set:

"Norman is important in Jen's life. But the crew is fed up with having to dote on him. Norman is a nuisance on set. Jen needs him around all the time but she won't stand for him being chained up. So the dog has his own chair near the director, and Jennifer also has a doggy masseuse tend to Norman every day."

"She even insists that Norman eat with the crew, and that he's fed organic, human-grade food. So Jen's assistant has special plates made up by the caterer with free-range white meat chicken and organic rice."

Photo Credit: manwithface

Cat Stuck In Freezer

noreply@blogger.com (Libbi) — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 20:21:00 +0000

A New Zealand cat has seemingly done the impossible and astounded animal experts by having survived nearly 19 hours inside its owners' freezer.

Freezer Cat

In Te Kuiti, New Zealand, 27 year old, mother of two, Sarah Crombie, found her family's cat lying rigid and semi-conscious on top of a dog food bag in her freezer.

Upon opening the freezer to get out a loaf of bread, Sarah said that she heard a strange noise.

"I was looking in there and I heard this funny noise. It was sort of a 'meow' but he was so half-frozen he couldn't get the noise out properly, poor thing. So I look down and I see this grey fluffy thing sitting on top of the bag of dog food under a rack."

The previous night, Sarah's partner, 28 year old Sid Sisson, had closed the top-loading freezer's lid without knowing that their cat, Krillen, was inside.
Because Sarah and Sid keep their freezer at the coldest setting, roughly 18C or 64F, Sarah was afraid that Krillen wouldn't survive.

"I raced inside to get Sid and as I came out, Krillen rolled off the bag in an attempt to get out, but he was that frozen he just rolled to the bottom of the freezer on his back," she said.

"At first we thought his eyeballs were frozen. I've never seen a cat with such big eyes."

Luckily for Krillen, Sid understood how vitally important it was that the body temperatures of hypothermia patients be raised slowly.

So Sid picked up 1 year old Krillen and placed him under his shirt. Next he climbed into bed with Krillen in an attempt to keep him warm.

Sid, who is a dairy farmer, spent the next three hours with the half-frozen cat on his bare chest under the bed's blankets, until Krillen had thawed out.

"I was sitting on the other side of the bed and the whole bed was vibrating from this cat shaking," said Sarah.

Miraculously, Krillen survived his 19 hour, frozen ordeal unscathed.

"But I tell you, he doesn't go near the freezer anymore," said Sarah.

Research

One of the senior lecturers at Massey University's Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Dr. Nick Cave, stated that whilst Krillen's survival was remarkable, it was probably due to Sid being able to slowly warm Krillen up.

Dr. Cave recalled another inquisitive cat who had survived being locked in a freezer for over 24 hours, but who then developed frostbite on its toes and ears a few days later. This cat also developed signs of kidney damage as well.

Dr. Cave recommended that Sarah and Sid take Krillen to their local veterinarian to check for any internal damage, even though Krillen did not have any signs of frostbite a week after the ordeal.

In a study conducted in 1952, it was found that at -5C or 23F, a cat's metabolic rate rose by almost a third.

"So putting a cat in the freezer means it would presumably have to use up an enormous amount of energy to maintain its body temperature," said Cave.

Other than that study, there has been very little research conducted on a cat's ability to survive extreme cold temperatures. However, studies have been conducted on dogs.

Many years ago, scientists placed Huskies inside freezers in an attempt to study how the Huskies would cope with the severe cold. This was, of course, a long time before there were animal rights activists!

From a study conducted in 1959, 6 out of 7 dogs were able to maintain their body temperature for up to 27 hours at -50C, and then for another five hours at -79C.

Fridge Cat

Earlier this year in July, an Australian cat called Maisy, survived 10 hours inside a fridge.

The cat's owner, Bill Nelson of Warrnambool, Australia, accidentally locked the family's cat inside his beer fridge late on a Saturday night.

"I had the whole family over and went out to the shed to get a few beers from the fridge," Bill told the local Standard Newspaper. "I didn't think that much of it until the next morning when we couldn't find the cat."

Bill's daughter, 13 year old Melanie, was apparently beside herself with worry. The whole Nelson family conducted an extensive search for Maisy on Sunday morning, even looking inside the shed, but they still could not find Maisy.

It finally dawned on Bill to open his beer fridge to check to see if Maisy was there.

And indeed she was! Maisy was calmly sitting inside Bill's beer fridge on the bottom shelf, apparently not impressed with being locked in the beer fridge for
so long. However, Maisy is a lucky cat:

"It might have been a week before I opened the fridge again," said Bill.

Photo Credit: ftzdomino

Diamond Pet Foods Recalls Cat Food

noreply@blogger.com (Libbi) — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 20:43:00 +0000

Premium Edge Cat Food, a subsidiary of Diamond Pet Foods, issued a voluntary recall on its cat food in the Eastern United States of America earlier this month.

The Products

Only two of the cat food products, that were manufactured and distributed by Diamond Pet Foods on May 28, 2009, have been affected by the voluntary recall:

Premium Edge Finicky Adult Cat

Premium Edge Hairball for Cats

The Product Codes

The voluntary recalls of these two flavors contain the following product codes:

RAF0501A22X 18lb

RAF0501A2X 6 lb

RAH0501A22X 18 lb

RAH0501A2X 6lb

The Recall Reason

According to an announcement made by Diamond Pet Foods, whilst the recalled cat food had been tested, no known contaminants were discovered in the cat food. However, these same foods were found to be deficient in a vital vitamin called Thiamine.

A statement from Diamond Pet Foods reads:

"Diamond tracked the vitamin premix lot number that was utilized in these particular cat foods and have performed testing on another lot of Premium Edge cat food that used the same vitamin premix, and it was not deficient in thiamine."

Unbelievably, Diamond Pet Foods have not yet been able to determine why the thiamine was lacking from these two cat food products in the first place. To date a full investigation is still underway by Diamond Pet Foods.

However, a spokesperson from Diamond Pet Foods has provided the following theory: The company time stamps each product with the time and date that it is manufactured. Those time stamps of the affected cat foods were manufactured and stamped within a 12 minute window. A manufacturing error during this time frame may have resulted in the thiamine deficiency in the cat foods.

Cats and Thiamine

Thiamine, also referred to as Vitamin B1, is am essential vitamin. The bodies of all dogs and cats are not able to create this vitamin by themselves, and so therefore need supplementation. Therefore, thiamine has become a fundamental component of every cat's diet. Such thiamine supplementation usually comes from eating dry cat food.

Thiamine works by first being absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract and then being metabolized in the cat's liver. Thiamine is necessary for the proper conversion of dietary carbohydrates to energy.

A cat's central nervous system relies exclusively on carbohydrates for energy and because of this a lack of thiamine in a cat's diet can have adverse affects on a cat's central nervous system.

Symptoms

Cats whose diets contain little or no thiamine will often display signs such as loss of appetite and lethargy. However, a cat who has a thiamine deficiency can have gastrointestinal, cardiac and/or neuromuscular issues that present themselves quite suddenly, such balance issues and life-threatening seizures.

Therefore, the symptoms that are exhibited by cats who have eaten any of Diamond Pet Foods Premium Edge Cat Food are mostly neurological in nature, such as:

A decrease in appetite

Vomiting

An increase in the cat's respiratory rate

Low body temperature

No coordination or mild balance loss

Muscle weakness

Paralysis of the hind limbs

Seizures

Ventral flexion (bending towards the floor) of the cat's neck

Keeping a very rigid posture

Rapid or abnormal eye movements called Nystagmus

Pupils that are dilated

Blindness

Diamond Pet Foods are asking that any cat displaying any of these symptoms that have eaten the cat food that is being recalled should be taken immediately to a veterinary hospital.

Pet Retail Stores

All pet retail stores that were shipped the above mentioned cat food products have been notified by Diamond Pet Foods, and have been asked to pull the cat food bags from their store shelves. Additionally, the retail stores were also asked to contact their customers either telephonically or by email and to request them to check the date code on their bags of cat food to see if they have purchased any of the recalled products.

However, it does appear that most cats who have taken ill after eating the recalled cat food have been in and around Rochester, New York. Nonetheless if you are feeding your cat either of these products, you are urged to check the product date codes listed on the labels. If you do have such a recalled bag, return it to the store immediately.

Diamond Pet Foods

Diamond Pet Foods has admitted that there have been no other neurological symptoms reported to them for any other pet food product that they manufacture and distribute.

Should have questions you can contact Premium Edge Pet Foods at 800-977-8797.

Unfortunately, Diamond Pet Foods has recalled their pet food products before. Namely, in 2007 as part of the huge pet food recall that involved many other pet food companies, and prior to that in 2005, when they recalled pet foods due aflatoxin toxicity.

Photo Credit: Q4RadioGuy

Taipei To Improve Pet Laws

noreply@blogger.com (Libbi) — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 02:42:00 +0000

Household Pets

The United Daily News reported that the Taipei City government is working on passing a law to protect household pets within Taipei.

According to the newspaper, the new law, drafted by the Taipei Municipal Institute for Animal Health, would immediately become effective if it is passed by the Taipei City Council.

Based on a similar bill currently in effect in Japan, Taipei's new pet law would require ample living space and proper food and drink for all household pets. The bill would establish certain pet-friendly requirements for raising household pets; as well as to convey details regarding penalty violations.

The Director of the Taipei Municipal Institute for Animal Health, Yen Yi-Feng, was quoted in the newspaper as saying:

'The regulations will start with rules on raising dogs and cats, and later be expanded to other pets. We will invite conservation experts, veterinarians and scholars to design rules like how much time a dog owner should spend walking the dog, and what is the proper food and drink for the pet.'

Yen Yi-Feng also stated that the Taipei Municipal Institute for Animal Health will also be creating and distributing pet care guides for pet owners in Taipei, in effort to help them become better educated pet owners.

There are currently 130,000 dogs and cats that have been registered at the Taipei Municipal Institute for Animal Health. This amounts to 82% of the overall number of dogs and cats living in Taipei City.

Whilst this new law might seem like a good idea, local Taipei residents do not think so. Most of them are afraid that the restrictions imposed by the law are far too strict and will lead to pet owners abandoning their pets.

The World Society for the Protection of Animals has declared Taipei to be the worst city in the world for stray animals. Every year tens of thousands of dogs and cats are dumped on Taipei's streets, and since there are no humane societies or animal shelters to take these strays in, the number of strays increases each year. Most of these now stray dogs and cats started out their lives as beloved and pampered pets that were then dumped on a street corner when they became too old or else become ill.

Liability Insurance for Dogs

In an another attempt at regulating dog and cat ownership, Taipei City's government is also drafting a proposal to require dog owners to purchase liability insurance against any possible third party damage caused by their dog. The proposed bill that would come into law in March 2010, if approved, would establish mandatory dog insurance against injuries to third party persons, animals and properties by the dogs that are registered to Taipei City residents.

Taipei City's government wants to have the insured amount to be approximately NT$1.5 million per dog, roughly $45,000. Officials are hoping that, if all of the 130,000 dogs in the city's registry acquire the mandatory insurance, that the annual premium should then be about NT$100-200, or somewhere in the range of $3 - $6 dollars per year.

However, the new bill also carries with it a hefty penalty if the insurance is not purchased on a registered dog within Taipei City limits. The fine will be between NT$2,000 and NT$10,000, which is approximately $62 - $310.

Yan Yi-Feng has stated that, at this time, it is unclear whether the new bill will incorporate every breed of dog registered in Taipei or if it will only focus on certain breeds of dogs.

Yan, who believes that such legislation will be a success, hopes that other municipalities in Taiwan will adopt the mandatory dog insurance guidelines. In this way, it will be impossible for Taipei City residents to register their dogs in other cities or counties in an attempt to avoid having to purchase the liability insurance on their dogs.

The legislation is necessary, Yan explains, because dogs that are being kept as pets are far more territorial than wild dogs and may therefore attack if they feel threatened, whereas wild dogs are usually fearfully of humans and will only attack if provoked.

Many dog owners in Taipei City feel that this legislation will cause more harm in the long run, with more dogs being abandoned as dog owners cannot afford the high insurance premiums. Most educated dog owners also believe that dogs are peaceful animals and therefore liability insurance is unnecessary.

The proposed law is based on similar legislation in Singapore that insists dog owners insure their dogs for S$100,000 or NT$2.32 million, or $72,000.

According to this Singaporean law, dog owners also have to place a deposit of S$5,000 ($3,500), to cover the costs of their dog running away or being fined for walking without a muzzle or leash.

Photo Credit: tab2_dawa

Video: Which Cat Breed Is Right for You?

noreply@blogger.com (Libbi) — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 15:00:00 +0000

When buying a purebred cat, make sure that the owner is raising them in a social environment. Discover which cat breed is right for you with tips from a cat behaviorist in this free video on pets and cat care.

Dogs Reduce Asthma In Kids

noreply@blogger.com (Libbi) — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 15:00:00 +0000

If you have been cautiously afraid of getting a dog for fear of your children developing asthma, you can now rest easy!

A preliminary study conducted by researchers at the University of Arizona's College of Pharmacy, has indicated that having a dog in the house could actually reduce any chances of children developing asthma later in their lives.

The Grant

The National Institutes of Health greatly approved of the study and awarded the research team a two year Challenge Grant in the amount of $937,302. The Challenge Grant is funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, which was signed into law in February 2009 by President Obama.

The funds will be used by Professor Serrine Lau, head of the College of Pharmacy, to study this hypothesis over the course of the next two years.

More specifically, the grant money will be used by the researchers to study how dogs that are present in the home around the time of a baby's birth might actually decrease his or her chance of developing asthma later in childhood.

Professor Lau has explained that so far, the National Institutes of Health has received more than 20,000 grant proposals.

The Arizona Initiative for the Biology of Complex Diseases, which is directed by Dr. Vercelli, one of the co-researchers, helped fund Professor Lau's project initially.

The Researchers

Professor Lau, who is also the director of the Southwest Environmental Health Sciences Center and a member of the BIO5 Institute, explains the research findings as such:

"Several longitudinal studies have shown that exposure to certain domestic animals, for example, indoor dogs, during a person's early life (even possibly before he or she is born) is associated with strong protection against asthma and asthma-related conditions later in life. The purpose of our research is to learn more about the biological mechanisms responsible for the protective effects of dog exposure. Conceivably, this could be a step toward someday leveraging these mechanisms for treatment or even preventive purposes."

Other University of Arizona faculty members, Marilyn Halonen, and Dr. Donata Vercelli, both experts in allergy biology and immunology, and Dean Billheimer, a biostatistician, will team up with Professor Lau, an expert in proteomics. It is predicted that together, their combined expertise will be used to study a unique set of samples and data from the Infant Immune Study.

The Infant Immune Study

Eight years ago a longitudinal study of asthma and allergy, was conducted at the UA's Arizona Respiratory Center and involved the enrollment at birth of a large unselected population of children. Throughout the years information on these children has been gathered detailing immunological parameters, allergies and lung function.

The Hypothesis

Professor Lau's research team hypothesizes that exposure to dogs at a very early age, just after birth, for example, creates a "signature" (either the presence or the modification of a protein) in a baby's blood.

The research team hopes to reveal how babies and young children exposed to dogs early in their lives are protected from having asthma later on in their lives, by comparing the signatures of children who were exposed to dogs with the signatures of children who were not exposed to dogs, as well as by noting whether or not asthma is present or absent in the children.

Samples that have been taken from the Infant Immune Study will be examined by Professor Lau's research team using a unique method involving mass spectrometry-based proteomics. Furthermore, mass spectrometry will be utilized by the researchers in an attempt to both identify and characterize the signatures contained inside the blood of the children.

To date, this particular technology has not been, and is not being, used by any other researcher for this particular purpose.

Children and Dogs

People, both dog-lovers/owners and non-dog lovers/owners have agreed that having a dog, or in any other type of pet for that matter, in the house can create
many benefits for children.

Pets are able to teach children how to share, such as in the case of the family dog wanting to sleep on and share the bed with the child.

Being responsible is another aspect to owning a dog or cat. Children learn how to properly take care of their dog or cat by learning how and when to feed them, walk them and, clean up after them too.

Another aptitude that children acquire through pet ownership is how to be gentle. Rough-housing will most often result in the children or the pet being hurt otherwise.

Learning to listen, especially to any loud growls or hisses from dogs and cats. These sounds will quickly teach a child to be nice and not pull the cat's tail or hit the dog.

Finally, a pet teaches a dog how to love and be loved.

Photo Credit: Jacobim Mugatu

October Is National Pet Wellness Month

noreply@blogger.com (Libbi) — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 14:00:00 +0000

This October is National Pet Wellness Month and marks the beginning of new national campaign encouraging pet owners to reconsider the health of their pets.

The Campaign

The national campaign is entitled "A Happy, Healthy Pet Starts With a Plan". Its primary goal is to promote the importance of semi-annual veterinarian visits.

The American Veterinary Medical Association along with Fort Dodge Animal Health of Overland Park, Kansas, launched the National Pet Wellness Month in 2004. VPI Pet Insurance of Brea, California, teamed up with them as a campaign sponsor this year.

The National Pet Wellness campaign is a year-round crusade in which veterinarians all over the USA, work with pet owners to educate them on proper preventative veterinary care for their pets.

Education

The National Pet Wellness campaign is an educational initiative that has been designed to increase awareness in pet owners about the significance of having twice yearly wellness exams conducted on their cats, dogs and other pets.

National Pet Wellness Month this month also attempts to focus on educating pet owners about disease prevention, pet health insurance, as well as proper wellness examinations, all in an endeavor to help pets to live longer, healthier lives.

More or less 15,000 veterinary clinics nationwide have signed up to participate in the National Pet Wellness Month. Together with pet parents, these veterinarians will help create specific wellness programs for their pet clients and their owners.

The Three Step Plan

The National Pet Wellness campaign touts preventative veterinary care in order to prevent diseases and health conditions that could negatively affect the quality of a pet's life in the future. Therefore, a three step plan has been envisioned to include: semi-annual pet wellness exams, disease prevention education and proper pet health insurance.

Recent studies have indicated that owners who have health insurance coverage for their pets, actually schedule more veterinary visits than those pet owners without pet health insurance. Unfortunately, most pet owners do not realize that pet health insurance coverage is available for routine wellness care as well as injuries and illnesses.

Since the campaign launched a few years ago, it has emphasized both semi-annual wellness examinations for pets and disease prevention education.

The "Pet Wellness Starts With a Plan" campaign hopes to alert pet owners to the necessity of the three step plan via educational materials at their local veterinary clinic as well as through a variety of different national public media outlets that are all focused on persuading pet owners to get in contact their local veterinarian.

Twice Yearly Examinations

Taking your pet to the veterinarian for a wellness exam every 6 months is a great preventative against certain diseases and conditions. These exams give your veterinarian a chance to diagnose, prescribe treatment and prevent any health condition that could become serious. These exams all provide an opportunity for pet parents to ask their veterinarian questions about their pet's behavior and nutrition.

Another reason why semi-annual exams are so important is because pets age an average of seven times faster than humans. Therefore, by the time they are 2 years old, most pets are considered middle aged; and most dogs, especially large breed dogs, are thought to be seniors at 7 years of age. Since pets can age so quickly, a multitude of health problems can occur within a six month period, therefore it important that pets have a wellness exam conducted by a veterinarian every six months.

Disease Prevention

Veterinarians are able to use a "Wellness Checklist" to conduct a Risk Assessment of your pet in order to determine their exposure level to various diseases.

Examples of the type of questions that your vet may ask you are:

Do you often travel with your pet?
What other types of pets/animals do you have in your household and under your care?
Do you have any wildlife near your home?

The answers to these questions will help your veterinarian to create a highly individualized wellness and vaccination plan for your pet. This plan will help protect your pet from future diseases such as Rabies and Tick bites.

Pet Health Insurance

In today's economy veterinary costs can prevent pet owners from taking their pets to see their veterinarian for routine wellness exams, or even when their pets are really sick.

However, if a pet is covered under pet health insurance then their owner is more likely to take them in to see the vet whenever they are sick as well as for routine checkups.

Every pet needs to see a veterinarian for both routine and preventative exams and/or surgeries throughout its life. Basic pet health insurance will cover most routine procedures and treatments for pets, such as wellness exams, vaccinations, heartworm protection and flea and tick control.

Photo Credit: doug88888