10 New Year Resolutions for Your Cat

With the coming of the New Year, the inevitable resolutions begin. Trim your girth, be nicer toward your in-laws, spend more time with the family. We're all familiar with the promises we make to improve ourselves in the coming year.

Your cat, believe it or not, also wants to embark on a program of self-improvement in the spirit of the New Year. Perhaps self-improvement is overstating the case; she wishes to fine-tune herself. Although she comes close, your cat realizes no one is perfect.

Here are the top 10 New Year's Resolutions for your cat, from her perspective. (Just don't say anything if she falls a little short of the goal. You keep her secret and she'll keep yours.)

Resolution #1: I promise to trim down a little.

Being bigger means there is more of me to love, but perhaps I can stand to lose a little weight, if I'm given the opportunity and the right kinds of toys to play with.

Resolution #2: I'll be friendlier to strangers.

I won't turn my nose up at newcomers right away. Instead, I'll give them a chance to scratch my ears before disappearing under the bed.

Resolution #3: I'll be cuddlier to family members.

I'll purr more and be more affectionate to everyone in the family, except the dog – unless he promises to stay the heck out of my litter box!

Resolution #4: I'll be nicer to the birds and fish in household.

Sure, I'll be very nice to them. Perhaps if I'm nice, they'd want to come out and play with me ...

Resolution #5: I won't be as finicky about my food.

Just as long as it's the right texture, taste and temperature, and given at the right time each day.

Resolution #6: I'll lay off the furniture and stick to my scratching post.

After all, that's what the scratching post is for. Besides, I've made enough marks to show who really owns this place. To do any more would be just cad.

Resolution #7: I'll stop hiding stuff behind the couch.

It's getting a little cluttered behind there anyways. Someone in the house is really trying to find that diamond ring – they're making too much of a racket.

Resolution #8: I'll let everyone else sleep later.

I suppose 5 a.m. is a little too early to get everyone up to feed me. I think I can hold on until 5:30 a.m.

Resolution #9: I'll stay off the counters, at least when company is around.

I only get chased off anyways. Sooner or later everyone leaves, so I can patrol the countertops if I'm just a little patient.

Resolution #10: I'll be more tolerant of those homemade bandannas.

They feel a little funny, and I dislike having something put on me, but the colors really do match my hair coat, and they set off my eyes nicely.

12 Wonderful Dog-Friendly Holiday Traditions

Do you have favorite holiday traditions you celebrate with your dogs? Many of us do. Dogs are part of our families and many families include their dogs in their holiday festivities and in some cases, their dogs are an integral part of the events.

We would like to share some holiday traditions with you and even learn about some of your traditions so that we can share with other dog lovers.

Here are some of our favorite holiday traditions to share with dogs:

1.Pick Out a Tree Together. There are tree farms that allow you to walk around and tag your tree. How about doing it with your dog? What a wonderful tradition!

2.Holiday Paw-di-cure. How about a holiday pedicure for your pooch? You can be creative and paint the nails alternatively red and green just for fun.

3.Pet Parade. Some towns or pet stores sponsor a dog event – even a dog parade. Dress up your dog in his favorite bandana or Santa cap and take part.

4.Hang a Dog Stocking. Why not? If you have a stocking – your dog should too. Many of the dog lovers I know have stockings for each of their dogs.

5.Go See Santa. How about a photo of your dogs or you and your dogs with Santa? This also makes a great holiday card.

6.Blessing of the Animals. Check your local paper or pet store bulletin board to find out if there is a local event in your area.

7.Make Some Dog Treats. Make some healthy homemade dog treats and allow your dog to be the helper and master sampler. Make extra for your dogs friend or your friend's dogs. Go to: Holiday Treats and Healthy Dog Treats for recipes.

8.Quiet Time. Spend a little quiet time with your dog. Even an evening when you decorate the tree or just listen to some holiday music is often a welcome time for you and your dog.

9.Holiday Walk. Go for a stroll and enjoy some of the winter views and lights.

10.Bandana. Some dogs like to be dressed and others don't but most will tolerate a simple holiday bandana. How about dressing your dog up with a special holiday-themed bandana. They are easy to make – Go to Instructions for a Dog Bandana to make your own.

11.Plan Something Special From Your Dog. A very sweet tradition for many pet owners is to do something nice for people that are nice to your dog. That may be send a special card or buy a small gift "from" the dogs.

12.A Little Eggnog. Maybe you can enjoy some wonderful holiday eggnog and you can treat your dog to some dog-approved ice cream. There are different manufactures of products such as "Tasty Paws".

And don't forget to put a little something from Santa for your dog under the tree or in his stocking.

Dog Gift Basket: Click to Order

Pets and Guests: Can They Get Along?

Some people feel intimidated by larger dogs; you can go a long way to overcome fears and phobias by planning ahead.

When it comes to holiday guests and your pets, there are a lot of possible outcomes to the mixing of the two. One side of the scale is a wonderful evening for all. On the other, an unending horror for you, your guests and/or your pets.

What's the best way to entertain guests without making your pet feel unwelcome in his own home?

The first rule is so obvious that it is frequently overlooked: Make sure all your guests know you have a pet in the first place. Sure, your in-laws, siblings and parents may know, but are they bringing anyone else? You may want to contact all the guests yourself to tell them about your dog or cat.

The second rule is to always prepare a room ahead of time for your pet. This may not sound fair on the surface. It is, after all, your pet's home too. But you have some weighty responsibilities: seeing to your guests' comfort and enjoyment, while taking care of your pet's safety. Sometimes it is better for your dog or cat to spend a few hours in a safe, comfortable place. You know you'll make it up to them. Here are some situations and suggestions on how to handle them:

Allergies

Pet dander is a pernicious thing. It's not enough to tell your guests that you own a dog or cat. Tell them the breed and whether your pet tends to shed. An allergic person may do fine with a shorthaired pet. Then again, they may succumb to the slightest hint of pet hair. You'll know to spend extra time vacuuming and cleaning your home.

Some allergies are so severe that it is best if the person declines the invitation. They may have a reaction even if the pet is sequestered in another room and you vacuumed diligently.

Fears

You probably don't have to worry about your guest panicking over your tabby or bichon frise, but some people feel intimidated by larger dogs. Telling all your guests what sort of dog you have, and reassuring them he is well behaved, will go a long way to relieving fears. You should also tell them what to expect. If your dog has a loud bark, for instance, let them know to expect it when they knock.

Guests may have had some bad experiences with dogs in the past, or they may just be inexperienced. You can go a long way to overcome fears and phobias by planning ahead. If he's willing, give your guest a treat to give to your dog. Have him offer it flat on his palm and let your dog walk up on his own to take it. You may also want to give your guest a short lesson in "doggie etiquette":

Don't stare directly into the eyes of a dog. He may take this as a challenge. Instead, give the dog a quick glance and look away.

Greet a dog by holding the hand out to be sniffed, with the palm flat and upward.

When petting a new dog, avoid touching the top of his head, which may be misread as a sign of dominance. Speak softly and with a happy tone in the voice. Dogs can sense fear and confidence, and will react accordingly.

Of course, if your dog has reacted aggressively to guests before, it is far better and safer for you to keep him in a room, away from guests. Prepare the room comfortably for him, with water bowl, food and toys. Be sure to check on him during the course of the evening.

He Just Wants to be Loved ...Is That So Wrong?

What if your pet is just overly exuberant or affectionate? Isn't your cat or dog just adding to the warm, friendly, holiday atmosphere? That depends on how your guest feels. If your cat or dog is demanding attention, your guest may feel obligated (out of respect for you) to pet them.

Take note of whether your pet is becoming a nuisance. Remember that what is cute and normal for you may be a bother for your guest, especially if your pet is keeping him from enjoying your delicious hors d'oeuvres.

Begging should be discouraged as well. Barking, loud meowing, jumping on guests – all should be discouraged. Dogs or cats that are just too much of a lovable handful may need a time out in his special room.

You can head off holiday problems such as these by prepping your pet: get him used to people coming over to the house. Reward him for behaving himself. If he doesn't, tell your helpers to just ignore him until he behaves. Any sort of attention, even negative attention, is a reward. By ignoring him (which means not even looking at him), you are teaching your pet what behaviors are acceptable.

Dealing with Exuberant Guests

Then again, your pet may not be the problem. If your guests are feeding your dog or cat from the table, they are setting you up for problems after they leave. Or they may play a little too rough (kids often don't realize they may be putting the pet or themselves at risk).

Guests who engage in improper feeding, roughhousing or other "illegal" behaviors will confuse or even frighten your pet. As the host, it's your responsibility to advise your guests of the "house rules" in a tactful, yet firm manner.

Guests should not feed your pet food, except with treats approved by you.

Guests should not chase your pet or make him feel trapped or insecure in his own home.

Pets should not be picked up or cuddled against their will. If your pet is accustomed to having his own private space, keep it inviolate.

If they persist or your pet has become overly excited, take the pet to his safe room for the duration of the evening. If your pets and guests are well behaved, then everyone can share in the holiday fun. The key is to balance the needs and expectations of each.

Let's Take a Hike With Your Dog!

Champ says: Take a hike, people!

Take Along some Treats

Now, now, we didn’t mean that in a nasty way. Don’t go! Not yet, at least. See, today is National Take a Hike Day! Yes, we know it might be a little chilly in some parts of the country, but if you bundle up well and keep moving, you’ll be toasty in no time. This is your encouraging reminder to get out of the house for at least one more good hike before winter weather really sets in.

And who better to take along for the trek than your dogs?

Hiking is a great way for humans to improve their health, reduce stress, and simply help you have fun while enjoying the great outdoors. Now, unlike the photo above, your hike doesn’t have to involve whole mountains! There are likely plenty of parks and local trails just a few minutes walk or drive away from where you’re sitting right now. Of course, if you’re up for something more ambitious–like clambering up one of Colorado’s many 14er peaks–then go for it!

Hiking with your dogs is also an excellent way to help them get in some great exercise while exploring Nature. They’ll thank you for the fun, for sure! But there are a few things to take into consideration before you strike out on the trail.

What are the trail leash laws? Some hikes require dogs to remain on leash the whole time, while others allow them off-leash so long as they’re under voice command. Respect other hikers (and possibly other dogs) on the trail and keep your pups from disturbing them along the way.

Depending on the length of the hike, you should plan on bringing plenty of water for both yourself and your dogs. Sometimes you can get lucky and hike along a flowing creek or river they can drink from, but consider still bringing along an extra bottle and perhaps a collapsible dog bowl in case the flow has dried up.

Lastly, even though it’s no longer technically tick season thanks to the chillier weather, it’s still a good idea to check over your dog once you get back to the car. Look for ticks still, but also check their fur and paws for scrapes or cuts they might’ve gained while sprinting around.

All right! Enough of us talking. Go grab your hiking stick, a leash, and a few snacks and head on out while the day is still warm and bright.

Pros & Cons of Sedation for Your Dog !

You're packed, you have the health certificate and you are ready to take that much needed vacation with your pet. You just have one more thing to decide: should you sedate your pet for the trip or not?

If you were going to be stuck in a dark, cool cargo area near a roaring airplane engine, you would want to be sedated. So it would be natural to assume your pet would prefer this as well. Unfortunately what you and your pet prefer may not be what is safe or even necessary.

Advantages

Sedatives have been used for years to calm pets and reduce nervousness, usually in association with thunderstorms or fireworks. Sedatives have also been used to reduce fear that may develop during air travel. Sedatives are commonly used to calm extremely fearful pets, those prone to severe separation anxiety and overactive pets. In these situations, sedatives reduce the potential for self-injury.

Disadvantages

For most pets, sedatives are not recommended. Even nervous pets, once they are in a carrier in a quiet dark place, typically calm down and most even go to sleep. The primary disadvantage of sedating pets for air travel is that there is no one to check on them nor offer medical care if problems arise. As with any drug, sedatives have side effects. The most profound and potentially life threatening problem associated with sedation is the effect on blood pressure. Most sedatives lower the blood pressure which can make your pet groggy and cold. Cargo cabins are not heated and, in cold weather, are quite cool. This cool environment, accompanied by lower blood pressure and a colder body temperature, can result in hypothermia. If left untreated, hypothermia and low blood pressure can be fatal. Another concern is that the effect of high altitude on the action of sedatives is unknown. What is known is that sedative use has been implicated as a contributing factor to many pet air travel deaths.

Overall, sedation for traveling pets is NOT recommended. Even for those pets that may benefit from sedation, the owner must be thoroughly aware of all the complications, side effects and risks of using a sedative. You and your pet would probably be safer and have a much more pleasant vacation if sedatives were not included.

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9 Benefits of Pumpkin for Pets - Pumpkin for Dogs and Cats

Pumpkin is very popular in human recipes but what about dogs and cats? Pumpkin can be great for dogs and cats as well and has several health benefits.

What kind of fruit weighs between 1 and 1,000 pounds, has a centuries-long world history, and is more useful today than ever? The magnificent pumpkin, of course!

Pumpkin is very popular in human recipes but you probably haven't thought about giving it to your pets. This vibrant fall ingredient can be great for dogs and cats and has a number of health benefits.

This versatile food has been important to mankind for centuries. According to the University of Illinois Extension Program, it's a crop that's worth over 140 million dollars annually in the United States alone. They should know; Illinois produces 90 to 95% of the pumpkins grown in the US.

Pumpkins have significant health benefits for people and pets so don't discount this amazing food as just a fall tradition. Canned or plain cooked pumpkin as well as pumpkin seeds are packed with vitamins and minerals that are essential to the health of our pets.

Here are some of the health benefits of pumpkin for dogs and cats:

1. Combating dehydration: Pumpkin flesh is around 90% water, so a little pumpkin topping on a meal can combat dehydration resulting from moisture-deficient processed dry dog and cat foods. An additional benefit is improved digestion from increasing the gastric "juices" essential to proper gastrointestinal health.

2. Helping with Constipation: Fiber from pumpkin works in pets the same way it does in humans and can actually treat some gastrointestinal issues. A tablespoon or two of pumpkin can resolve symptoms in a few days if the gut is just a bit "out of order." Some cats may experience decreased colon activity as they age, resulting in constipation. The added fiber from pumpkin increases the bulk of the stool and the colon muscles react by moving things along.

3. Reducing Hairballs: By increasing the volume of waste in the intestine, pumpkin can help your cat digest and eliminate fur swallowed during grooming. This can reduce or even prevent the formation of "hairballs" that are eventually regurgitated.

4. Resolving Diarrhea: Yes, it works both ways! Pumpkin can soothe constipation but diarrhea can also be remedied with the addition of pumpkin to a dog or cat's diet. It is particularly effective if the upset is the result of colitis caused by a rapid food change or the ingestion of a new food. All it takes is a teaspoon for small dog or cat and a tablespoon or two for a medium or large dog of canned pumpkin in the animal's food.

5. Boosting Weight Loss: With 3 grams of fiber per cup, pumpkin can augment weight loss in dogs and cats. The fiber fills the tummy so your pet feels "fuller" sooner, meaning Pookie eats fewer calories overall.

6. Supplementing Nutrition: One of the biggest benefits of pumpkin to pets and humans is its wealth of nutrition. Pumpkins contain carbohydrates, potassium, vitamin C, Vitamin A (from beta-carotene), iron, folate, magnesium, zinc, selenium, niacin, vitamin E, manganese, copper, and protein. You do not want to overload your pet's system with these nutrients and trace minerals, however. This is not a case of a little bit being good and a lot being better.

7. Adding Antioxidants: Pumpkin contain antioxidants which help moisturize skin, helping your pet maintain a healthy and shiny coat.

8. Providing Essential Fatty Acids: In addition to antioxidants, pumpkin seeds contain essential fatty acids with similar benefits. Pets may consume the seeds raw (if they are fresh) or enjoy the roasted version which store better. Lightly coat the seeds with cooking oil and roast in a 375-degree oven for 5 to 10 minutes for a daily treat your pet will love. Only offer a few seeds at a time to your pet (the fiber can cause a softening of the stool). Store the seeds in an airtight container or freeze them. Don't forget to roast some extras for yourself! If your pet is small you can grind up the seeds to ensure they are easier to digest and don't get caught in the intestine.

9. Controlling Parasites: Pumpkin seeds contain cucurbitacin, a possible anthelmintic that eliminates tape and roundworms. Additionally the seeds may inhibit the formation of kidney and bladder stones, and some studies have shown anti-inflammatory properties. The seeds may be ground up and added to food, but again, be conservative.

Don't grab that jack-o-lantern just yet though! Carved pumpkins are NOT something you want to feed your pets because mold begins rapidly growing inside them once the skin is broken.

The best pet-safe sources are fresh or canned pumpkin cooked with no additional spices added. Do not get canned pumpkin designed for use in pie as this frequently contains spices and other ingredients. Opt for pure, plain pumpkin. Plan on freezing cooked pumpkin and fresh seeds; they last about a week when refrigerated. Some pet shops will carry pumpkin specially prepared for pets with sweet potato or other fruits added for flavor and nutritional benefits.

For treat recipes that contain pumpkin for dogs, go to:

Pumpkin Cookie Dog Treat Recipe

Healthy Treats - Peanut Butter Dog Biscuits & Pumpkin Dog Treats

Best Halloween Dog Treat Recipes

If you need specific recommendations for pumpkin for your pet, please discuss the issue with your veterinarian.

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Top 10 Peeves Dogs Have With Humans

Hi  Just like kids, dogs can do things that really annoy their pet parents. I can think of quite a few examples…sniffing crotches, jumping up on people, that sort of thing. Some dogs beg for food which annoys most of us, although some people don't seem to mind as much as others.  And then of course there's the barking and barking and barking. Yep, life with dogs isn't always fun and games. But let's think about the other side for a second: what do you think humans do that might annoy dogs? We recently received this very funny list of the top things about humans that annoy dogs. One of our readers asked us to share it with you and I think you will enjoy it.  Do you agree with this list? What do you think is the most annoying thing humans do to “bug” dogs?. I'll be curious to find out what you think!  forget

We recently received this very funny top ten list. One of our readers asked us to share it with you. We think you will enjoy this.

Top 10 Peeves Dogs Have With Humans

1. Blaming your farts on me..... not funny... not funny at all !!!

2. Yelling at me for barking. I'M A FRIGGIN' DOG

3. Taking me for a walk, then not letting me check stuff out. Exactly whose walk is this anyway?

4. Any trick that involves balancing food on my nose. Stop it!

5. Any haircut that involves bows or ribbons. Now you know why we chew your stuff up when you're not home.

6. The sleight of hand, fake fetch throw. You fooled a dog! Whoooo oooooooo what a proud moment for the top of the food chain.

7. Taking me to the vet for "the big snip", then acting surprised when I freak out every time we go back!

8. Getting upset when I sniff the crotches of your guests. Sorry, but I haven't quite mastered that handshake thing yet.

9. Dog sweaters. Hello ??? Haven't you noticed the fur?

10. How you act disgusted when I lick myself. Look, we both know the truth. You're just jealous.

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Today is World Rabies Day!

Champ as a Puppy!

Be Aware! Today is World Rabies Day! Rabies. Few words can make a pet owner shudder more. Rabies is a nasty viral disease that gets transmitted either through the saliva or nervous system tissues from one mammal to another. It is an incredibly deadly disease with a 99.9% fatality rate across the world! Once clinical symptoms actually appear, the death is inevitable. That’s pretty serious, to say the least, especially considering that rabies can easily be transmitted through small bites or scratches from infected animals. Now, immediate post-exposure treatment can stop rabies before it progresses to the point of no return, and there are ways to take preventative action against rabies. If your pet is ever in the vicinity of skunks, raccoons, foxes, bats, coyotes, various rodents and other wild animals, they’re at risk of contracting rabies. That’s why World Rabies Day has been established to inform people of the danger rabies presents plus give them the resources needed to protect themselves and their pets against the ravages of such a disease. What’s the best way to protect your pet against the threat of rabies? Vaccination is the primary method, even if your pet spends most or all of its time indoors. Make sure your pet’s rabies shots are up-to-date at all times. If they’ve been bitten or scratched by another animal, be sure to take them in to the vet for a booster shot as well. When out in the wilds, if you keep your pet under control on a leash, this can reduce the possibility of them running off and being exposed to another animal attack. Plus having your dog spayed or neutered is also a big help to reducing rabies–mainly because overpopulation leads to more stray dogs, which can easily become recipients and vectors of the disease. How can you tell if an animal (or another pet) has rabies? The signs aren’t usually too visible, unfortunately. Affected animals may stagger or walk oddly, may be overly aggressive or overly friendly, and foam at the mouth. None of these are definitive symptoms either way, though. If you even simply suspect an animal of having rabies, be sure to keep your own pets and family members as far away from it as possible and contact local animal authorities to have them contain the animal. In the end, awareness and prevention are the two greatest tools you have to fight the rabies threat. Visit the Global Alliance for Rabies Control for further info and find ways you can support their efforts to promote human and animal health!

House Training Your Dog or Puppy

House Training Your Dog or Puppy

You’ve brought a new dog into your home—congratulations! Now comes your first dog-training challenge: house training.

House training is not an exact science—there’s no sure-fire formula or timetable that will work for every dog. The important thing is to make it a positive experience. Here are a few tips to help you through it.

Do: Supervise your dog. Limit the dog’s run of the house to the one or two rooms where you are able to see her at all times. Dogs usually show “pre-pottying” behavior such as sniffing, circling and walking with stiff back legs; all signs that you should get her to the potty area ASAP! As the training begins to take hold, you can slowly enlarge her territory.

Don’t: Yell at a dog for a mess she made earlier. If you catch her in the act, it’s okay to startle her by clapping or making a noise (hopefully this will stop her long enough for you to whisk her outside). But a dog will not learn anything by being scolded for a past accident, even one a few minutes old. Just clean it up and soldier on.

Do: Offer big praise when she gets it right. Whether your goal is for your dog to eliminate on pee pads indoors or to do it outside, you have to really throw a party for her when she succeeds. Lavish her with praise, affection and some yummy treats!

Don’t: Rub her face in it. In addition to this action making your dog fear you, she’s incapable of making the connection that it’s the act of soiling indoors you object to—to her, you just really hate pee and poop. If she thinks that the waste itself is what you dislike, she’ll only get sneakier about hiding it from you.

Do you have any fool-proof house training tips? Share them in the comments!

P.S. Was this article helpful? Help us continue to provide pet parents with the resources they depend on by making a gift to the ASPCA today.  

Deaf Dog Awareness Week!

We often think of dogs as being creature that are inherently keen of hearing. They’re able to pick up on the tiniest noises and even hear in sound ranges beyond our own ability to detect. It’s almost like a superpower! Did you know, though, that dogs can be deaf just like humans? It’s true. Much like us, dogs can be born or become deaf through genetic defects, disease, or injury. This in no way impairs their ability to enjoy a full, long life and act just like any other dog, but it can bring about its own unique set of challenges. That’s why the last week of September is set aside as Deaf Dog Awareness Week! It’s not only a time to educate yourself on the issues surrounding deaf dogs but also to promote the adoption of deaf dogs across the country. So what should you know about deaf dogs (and potentially adopting one)? First off, know that deaf dogs don’t suffer from any lack of intelligence or physical ability. Just because they can’t hear doesn’t mean they can’t function normally. They’ll make all the same noises and have the same behaviors as a hearing dog. Deaf dogs also don’t require a “hearing companion,” i.e. a dog that can hear normally to guide them around or otherwise keep them safe. Dogs have numerous other senses they can rely on beyond hearing in order to navigate the wide and wonderful world. Deaf dogs are also fully trainable! They can pick up on sign-language commands quite well and will become visually cued to your actions–just like any other dog. The main warning of note with a deaf dog is that they should never be allowed to freely roam outside. Since they can’t hear, they aren’t always aware of cars or other dangers that might sneak up on them. If outside, they should either be supervised at all times, leashed, or contained by a fence. Have you ever wondered if your dog is deaf or not? Here are a few simple ways to test this: Call your dog in a normal voice Jangle keys or coins while standing behind your dog Whistle for your dog from across the yard Have someone ring your home’s doorbell Squeeze a squeaky toy across the room for your dog If your dog fails to respond to these various auditory signals, it might indicate partial or complete deafness. If you’d like more information on deaf dogs, be sure to visit theDeaf Dog Education Action Fund website. There you’ll find plenty of helpful resources plus see the many ways you can contribute to the fund’s efforts to support deaf dogs and their owners across the world.

10 Things You Should Know about Senior Dogs

Senior dog owners have tons of questions. It seems like just yesterday that you brought home that adorable little ball of fur. But before you know it, those puppies grow up into adult dogs and then all of a sudden it's time to discuss the care of a senior dog. 

Time goes by so quickly, doesn't it? Here are some of the top questions about senior dogs (and their answers). These are just a few of the questions that readers have asked me.

Q: Why is my dog gaining weight?

A: The aches and pains of old age may prevent your dog from moving as freely as she once did. She may have developed a touch of arthritis or stiffness in the joints. Hormonal changes may also slow down her metabolism. Medications may add extra girth. All these things add up to a widening waistline and a slower lifestyle.

Walk your dog and play with her daily. You'll have to engage her in gentler activities than when she was young, but she still needs her exercise. 

In addition, discuss changing her diet with your vet. Seniors need nutritious diets that are higher in fiber but lower in fat and calories. It's your job to help her keep her weight down, since obesity can make her more susceptible to diabetes, arthritis, and heart problems. Go here for more tips on feeding your senior dog. 

Q: Why is my dog losing weight?

A: Sometimes older dogs' bodies change in the opposite direction and their weight begins dropping. Is she eating? Are her teeth strong and mouth and gums healthy? Is her neck arthritic? She won't eat if it's a painful process. Age or medications can reduce her senses of smell and taste, which, of course, decreases her appetite. Metabolic disorders and heart or liver trouble can cause weight loss, regardless of how much she eats.

Try feeding your dog a veterinary-prescribed diet in frequent, smaller meals. If her memory or eyesight is failing, be sure to put her food and water bowls in the same place every day. To prevent strain on her aging spine, elevate the bowls to the level of her head.

Q: What if my dog has more than doggy breath?

A: Tooth or gum disease, accompanied by bumps on the gums or tartar on the teeth, are the most common reasons for extreme doggy breath. If you don't brush your dog's teeth regularly, ask your vet to show you how. You'll probably need to do it daily. Chewing on synthetic bones, biscuits, or hard rubber toys will help her prevent tartar build-up.

An unusually foul smell, accompanied by lack of appetite and frequent vomiting, could indicate liver disease. Kidney disease adds a hint of urine to the breath. Very sweet or fruity breath could indicate diabetes, especially if she 's been drinking and urinating more than normal.

Q: Why does my dog seems unusually thirsty?

A: Make sure her water bowl is clean, convenient to reach, and elevated if necessary. Always keep fresh, cool water available, not only beside her food bowl, but in the yard and on each floor of your home. Diabetes, a fairly common ailment of old age that also increases appetite, could be the culprit. Here is a list of the other most common conditions that affect senior dogs. 

Q: Why does my dog toss and turn at night?

A: She may need an orthopedic dog bed that will give her support to counter arthritis. Also, older dogs tend to develop painful elbow calluses that are more comfortable on soft bedding. The urge to urinate or defecate frequently can also keep her awake. A syndrome called Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD), akin to Alzheimer's disease in humans, also affects sleep patterns.

Q: Why does my dog nap more than ever?

A: Surprisingly, she may just be bored; decreased stimulation due to poor hearing or sight and reduced activity as a result of arthritis can make your dog depressed. The urge to urinate or defecate frequently can disturb nighttime sleep. Medication and hormonal or heart problems can also make a dog drowsy. In addition, CCD could be throwing off your dog's sleep cycle so that she roams restlessly at night and naps during the day. 

Q: Why has my dog has started bumping into things?

A: Failing eyesight is a bane of old age, but dogs learn to compensate. Make your home a safe environment with clear paths and walkways. If you need to rearrange furniture, lead the dog around until she gets a feeling for her surroundings. Always greet her with a gentle voice before touching or petting her. Block the entrances to stairs so she doesn't fall. Don't let her leave home without a human companion and keep her leashed when she goes out.

Q: Why won't my dog come when called?

A: Deafness is the most probable reason. If that is the cause, you can teach her hand signals. Since many deaf dogs are sensitive to vibrations, clapping hands or stomping on the floor may also get her attention.

Arthritis makes moving painful and could be another reason she's unwilling to respond. More serious medical conditions such as heart disease can be a factor as well. If your dog has trouble seeing or hearing, it's still important that she exercise and play. On days when she prefers sleep and inactivity, spend time petting her and talking with her. Massage is an excellent way to keep her joints working and muscles warm and limber.

Q: Why did my gentle dog snap at me/my child?        

A: Senior dogs display aggression for several reasons. Does your dog have vision problems? Is she hard of hearing? If so, you may have surprised her. The physical and mental symptoms of aging also increase your dog's stress level. Because of arthritis or other movement restrictions, she may not be able to remove herself from an annoying situation as she once could. Changes like moving, a new family member, a high noise level, the quick movements of children—can be frightening, adding to her stress and its resulting aggression. Her behavior also could be a symptom of CCD. Don't leave your own child or a visitor alone with an aggressive senior dog, even though there hasn't been a problem in the past.

Q: Why did my dog snap at my younger dog?

A: As your dog's faculties decline, her dominant status in a multi-pet household may be challenged. When younger dogs test her authority, she may become aggressive. Honor her dominance as you have in the past, but make it clear to all of your dogs that you are the real leader of their pack. You may have to separate your dogs when you leave them home alone.

Q: Why has my dog forgotten her house-training?

A: As your dog ages, soiling the house might become more common. A weak bladder, failing kidneys, or an inflamed bowel is the usual explanation but forgetting longtime habits may also be a sign of CCD. Besides medication, she may benefit tremendously from letting her go outside more often to urinate and defecate.

Q: Why is my dog constipated?

A: Older dogs are less likely to drink sufficient water and eat enough fiber, and constipation is a frequent problem with senior dogs. You may need to change your dog's diet and feed her smaller meals more frequently. She may no longer be able to tolerate table scraps. Eating more fiber will help move food through her intestines. 

But be observant. Arthritis of the hip or spine and hip dysplasia can result in such painful bowel movements that your dog is reluctant to defecate. An enlarged prostate in males, or tumors, can cause blockages or pain.

Q: Why doesn't my dog want to go outside?

A: As a dog ages, she loses her ability to adjust to changes in temperatures. Her drier skin and thinner hair offer her less protection and her metabolism makes her less resilient. During extreme weather, limit her time outdoors. In heat and humidity, remember that a dog pants to cool her body, and that older lungs are not as efficient.

If her vision and hearing are not as sharp as they once were, she may be frightened of being out in the open. Always keep her on a leash and stay close to reassure her when she's outdoors.

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Myths about dogs!

Do you believe any of these myths about dogs? Myth #1: “Dogs see in black-and-white” – This basic belief was established before scientists even had a good idea of how the human eye perceived color through rods and cones. Dogs can, in fact, see in color, though they do so in a slightly shifted spectrum compared to humans. It is currently thought dogs have something similar to red-green colorblindness and see better in blue, green, yellow, and gray shades. Myth #2: “Dog Years” – The idea that you can equate 1 human year to being 7 “dog years” is an older notion that shouldn’t be relied on. Now, yes, dogs do age faster than humans, but there isn’t such a direct correlation between the timeframes. Dogs tend to age faster when younger, and then the aging process slows down as they get older. A one-year-old pup might be considered more of a “teenager” in human terms, whereas an eight-year-old dog would be considered middle-aged. Aging is also going to differ greatly depending on the specific breed. Myth #3: “Wagging Tail = Happy Dog” – We see a dog’s tail wagging and instantly think it’s in a positive, happy mood. This might be the case, but dogs also wag their tails to show agitation or general nervousness. Dog communication is much more complicated than we tend to realize, and involves their ears, posture, eyes, and other body language elements. All these must be taken into consideration to determine if that wagging tail actually indicates happiness or whether aggression or fear is being broadcasted. Myth #4: “Dog mouths are cleaner than human mouths” – This myth comes from our observation of dogs licking their wounds to help themselves heal. The truth is, dogs licking their wounds can help heal them but not because of any magically cleaner saliva–it’s just because their rough tongues are removing dead tissue and dirt, much like a doctor might swab out a cut before bandaging it. Too much licking, in fact, can increase the risk of infection or introduce bacteria into the open wound. What are other common sayings or bits of trivia you believe about dogs? Have you ever taken the time to research whether it’s actually true or not? Are there bits of “canine wisdom” you wish people would stop repeating?

How to Travel Safely with Your Pets in Summer

Have you had your summer vacation yet? With school out, many families find this the perfect time to visit their favorite relatives, camping grounds, or seek cooler climates and beat the local heat. And unless you have a dedicated pet sitter or keep your pets at a kennel while you’re away, you need to figure out the best way to take them along for the ride!

Aside from the main logistics of bringing along enough food, water, or necessary medication for your pet, what are other considerations you should keep in mind to ensure everyone enjoys the time away from home?

·  Call Ahead – No doubt you’ll be staying at certain locations such as campgrounds, hotels, or with friends and family while on vacation. Make sure to call ahead before you leave and double-check that pets are allowed on these sites or if there’s any extra fee for boarding them there. For friends and family, it’s just polite to make sure no one there is allergic to your pet or otherwise uncomfortable around animals.

·  Bring Toys! – We bet your pets have a few favorite toys they love to romp with and chomp on. Pets can be unsettled by being exposed to new and unexpected situation or locations, but you can help alleviate their nervousness by having a familiar toy or treat available for them to focus on—rather than wondering what strange place they’ve wound up in.

·  Keep Their Health Current – Before you take any pet on a vacation, be sure to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. Get them to sign a health certificate, approving their ability to travel, and also update any vaccinations so they don’t pick up any illnesses during the trip. Have copies of their health and rabies certificate on hand at all times.

·  Keep Them Contained – Animals like to feel secure, and a moving car can be nerve-wracking for some. Help them feel more protected by keeping them in a kennel, a harness, a pet seat, or other  restraining device so they aren’t accidentally tossed around or injured if you have to brake hard or make a sharp turn.

Have you planned or already taken any vacations this summer? Did your pet come along? If so, how was the experience and what did you learn about caring for their needs while on-the-go? If not, what steps did you take to ensure they were cared for until you got back?

Fourth of July Safety Tips

Why Fireworks and Pets Don’t Mix

Monday, June 30, 2014 - 2:15pm

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Who doesn’t love the Fourth of July? It’s a weekend for block parties, barbeques, belly-flops in the pool and parades—all best when enjoyed with friends and family, and even better when you have the day off to celebrate with your pets! Have fun, but remember that certain traditional Independence Day activities might not be so fun, or so healthy, for the four-legged members of your household: yes, we’re talking about fireworks.
Fireworks are loud, and the crowds that go to see them can be scary, too. Animal shelters nationwide are flooded with runaway pets on the Fourth; studies show that nearly one in five lost pets went missing because they were fleeing the sound of fireworks or other loud noises. Losing a pet is not only heartbreaking, it’s also very dangerous for the animal, especially if he or she ends up roaming busy streets.
The best way to keep your pets safe is to make sure they don’t go missing in the first place: Please resist the urge to take your pets to go see fireworks. Instead, keep them safe from the noise in a quiet, sheltered and escape-proof area at home. Double check leashes and collars and make sure your pet’s ID tag is up to date. Be mindful when opening outside doors. And if the unthinkable does happen, the ASPCA’s new app is here to help: Utilizing the latest field research, this free tool provides users with an individual search plan based on their pet’s behavior and individual circumstances so they can search quickly and effectively to recover their lost pet.
Please read the rest of our advice for a safe and festive Fourth!

Fourth of July Safety Tips

For many people, nothing beats lounging in the backyard on the Fourth of July with good friends and family—including the four-legged members of the household. While it may seem like a great idea to reward Rover with scraps from the grill and bring him along to watch fireworks, in reality some festive foods and products can be potentially hazardous to your pets. The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center offers the following tips:

• Never leave alcoholic drinks unattended where pets can reach them. Alcoholic beverages have the potential to poison pets. If ingested, the animal could become very intoxicated and weak, severely depressed or could go into a coma. Death from respiratory failure is also a possibility in severe cases.
• Do not apply any sunscreen or insect repellent product to your pet that is not labeled specifically for use on animals. Ingestion of sunscreen products can result in drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, excessive thirst and lethargy. The misuse of insect repellent that contains DEET can lead to neurological problems.
• Always keep matches and lighter fluid out of your pets’ reach. Certain types of matches contain chlorates, which could potentially damage blood cells and result in difficulty breathing—or even kidney disease in severe cases. Lighter fluid can be irritating to skin, and if ingested can produce gastrointestinal irritation and central nervous system depression. If lighter fluid is inhaled, aspiration pneumonia and breathing problems could develop.
• Keep your pets on their normal diet. Any change, even for one meal, can give your pets severe indigestion and diarrhea. This is particularly true for older animals who have more delicate digestive systems and nutritional requirements. And keep in mind that foods such as onions, chocolate, coffee, avocado, grapes & raisins, salt and yeast dough can all be potentially toxic to companion animals.
• Do not put glow jewelry on your pets, or allow them to play with it. While the luminescent substance contained in these products is not highly toxic, excessive drooling and gastrointestinal irritation could still result from ingestions, and intestinal blockage could occur from swallowing large pieces of the plastic containers.
• Keep citronella candles, insect coils and oil products out of reach. Ingestions can produce stomach irritation and possibly even central nervous system depression. If inhaled, the oils could cause aspiration pneumonia in pets.
• Never use fireworks around pets! While exposure to lit fireworks can potentially result in severe burns and/or trauma to the face and paws of curious pets, even unused fireworks can pose a danger. Many types contain potentially toxic substances, including potassium nitrate, arsenic and other heavy metals.
• Loud, crowded fireworks displays are no fun for pets, so please resist the urge to take them to Independence Day festivities. Instead, keep your little guys safe from the noise in a quiet, sheltered and escape-proof area at home.

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