Monday, October 7, 2013

Choosing a Veterinarian for Your Pet

No matter what type of pet you own, you probably have gone to the veterinarian at least once. You might not have a doctor that you take your pet to regularly, but it is important to have one that you feel like you can trust. You should be able to trust him or her to be experienced, charge fair prices, be reliable, and have a good reputation.
You look at a practitioner's experience when you are looking for your own practitioner. It is equally pertinent when looking for one for your pet. Some pets are like children to their owners, so it is important to them that the veterinarian is qualified to treat whatever may come up with your pet.
Fair prices need also be noted when looking for a medical practitioner for your pet. You will probably need to shop around in order to know where to find the best deal. Some people will spare no expense for their pets. It can be costly to have certain operations or treatments done. So, if you care about the cost of treatment, then it is important for you to do price comparisons. It's also important to know the health history of your pet's breed, preparing yourself for future costs and health issues.

Monday, September 30, 2013

Looking for the Best Air Purifiers for Pets? They're Not in Major Stores

If you're looking for the best air purifiers for pets, what you find at Walmart, Petco, Petsmart or other stores isn't going to be what you're looking for. True, you might find an air cleaner that is low cost, but they're usually cheaply made and simply don't have the air cleaning power of a pet air purifier. These cheap air cleaners usually don't have the same type of quality HEPA filters, not enough carbon to do anything about odors, really, and a fairly low output rate. And a low output means that the unit won't be able to cycle or 'breathe' all of the dander, hair, & odors before you do. And that means the air cleaner will actually have very little effect on reducing allergies & pet odors.
If you have pets or have allergies, what you're looking for is an air cleaner that is effective at removing the allergy & odor-causing pollutants-and hopefully one that is affordable but still built to last. The only place to find that combination of performance and value is with air scrubbers that are designed that way, such as the Aller Air 4000 Vocarb or any of their 4000, 5000, or 6000 Vocarb series. Or, the Austin Pet Machine is also a great unit. Both of these air cleaners come with effective HEPA filters that remove well over 99% of the dander, hair, dust and other particles that cause the majority of allergy attacks.
Plus, both of these air scrubbers come with a lot of pet odor-absorbing carbon (anywhere from 12-28 pounds) that truly captures the odor molecules so you don't breathe them. 

Tuesday, September 17, 2013

Ways in Which You Can Put Your Pets to Rest

Anyone who owns a pet will attest to the fact that pets enrich our lives. They hold a special place in our hearts and sometimes we treat them as dearly as we treat our family. We celebrate their birthdays, as we would for any other member of our family and we're heartbroken when they pass away. They have short life spans and it is inevitable for us to outlive them. Their absence leaves a void in our hearts. Hence, it's important we give our friends a memorable farewell to honor their memory. Here are a few ways in which you can put your pets to rest after they've passed on.
Still Close to You
The general practice is to bury pets in the backyard, once they're dead. It's simple, easy to do and keeps them close to you. Dig the grave yourself and hold a private ceremony to remember the good times you shared with them. You can also plant a tree on the grave, completing the circle of life. When one life ends it begets a new one. However, this is only possible if you own a backyard. For people living in apartments, make use of a friend or relative's backyard or explore other options.
Pet Sematary
The option of burying your pet in the backyard is only open for those who own one. However, the option of burial is still open to all. There are cemeteries for pets, where you can bury your dearly departed. This is an option for people who'd like to bury their pets, but who don't own a private plot. You can plant a tombstone and revisit the grave, anytime you're reminded of your friend. If you're a fan of the Pet Sematary movies, you may want your pet to return to life. Just pray he doesn't turn rabid like the animals in those movies.

Monday, September 9, 2013

Understanding the Grieving Process During the Loss of a Pet

Coping With the Loss of Your Pet
When you have a pet, they are one of your family members and our best of friends. Losing them can have long-lasting negative effects on surviving members. The grieving process varies from person to person; one person it may only last a few days while others it may take years. Oftentimes, it begins with a denial process in which a person denies the loss has even happened. This is a form of protection until the person can deal with their loss. Some individuals may become angry. Occasionally, anger can be directly related to someone involved with the pet such as family members, friends, and veterinarians. Pet owners may even feel guilty of what they did or did not do. Seniors, children, and other family pets all experience grief differently.
The death of a pet for seniors can be extremely difficult, particularly on those that live alone. Pets give the elderly companionship and help them deal with many facets of life. The loss may generate painful memories of other loved ones lost or remind them of their own mortality. They may have a sense of emptiness and loss of self-worth. It is important to keep communication amongst family and friends open. In addition, there are many volunteer opportunities available throughout many communities for example: schools, churches, hospitals, shelters, and animal shelters to name a few.
For children, the loss of a pet may be their first experience dealing with loss. A child's reaction to the death of a pet usually depends on their developmental level. Children between the ages of 3-5 years view death as temporary or reversibly. Children who are between the years of 6-8 years are starting to understand a more realistic nature of death. 

Monday, August 26, 2013

Boost Your Pet's Immune System With Spirulina

If your dog seems frequently tired and fatigued, his immune system health may not be in good shape. Keep in mind that when your pet's immune system is stressed, it can have a severe impact on his body's metabolic energy. What you need to do is to find a reliable supplement that can bring back his body's vigor and help promote energy. One of the best options you can try is spirulina.
Spirulina is a microscopic blue-green alga that grows in freshwater sources. Its name is derived from the Latin word for "spiral," mainly due to its perfect helix form. Spirulina is close cousins with chlorella, another well-known supplement.
Spirulina is rich in various nutrients, especially protein. In fact, it has one of the highest protein concentration among plant foods, with an overall 60 percent digestible vegetable protein. It also has a high concentration of beta-carotene, vitamin B12, iron, and trace minerals, as well as gamma-linoleic acid (GLA), a rare essential fatty acid.
Organic spirulina also contains unique phytonutrients like phycocyanin, sulfolipids, and polysaccharides - important nutrients that can enhance your pet's immune system. Taking small amounts of spirulina can help stabilize and balance your pet's immune system, providing more metabolic energy for healing, vitality, and assimilation of nutrients. Spirulina can also improve your pet's cellular communication process and its ability to read and repair his DNA.

Tuesday, August 20, 2013

Do You Have a Contingency Plan in Place for Your Pet?

In the United States approximately 62% of households have a pet. In a recent independently administered ASPCA survey of 1000 pet owners, only 17% had taken the necessary legal steps to protect their pet's future. Among the 1000 pet owners surveyed, 42% already had a valid will in place but only 18% included their pet in it. The ASPCA estimates approximately 100,000 pets are entered into shelters every year due to their guardian becoming unable to care for them or because the guardian died. And, of the four million pets euthanized in shelters in the United States each year, around 500,000 are euthanized because their owners did not have a contingency plan in place encase of their absence. The pet's fate is left to luck and circumstances if their human caretaker did not develop a plan. Often, it is a family member of the pet owner who brings the pet to a shelter claiming they do not have the resources to care for the pet and all efforts to find it a new home have failed. Many times the pet is quite elderly and will spend their final days among strangers in a strange land. These orphaned animals are so despondent-not wanting to eat or interact with others, that they are labeled as unadoptable and don't "sell" well.
In the eyes of the law, animals are considered tangible personal property, however, estate and trust lawyers don't think of pets as property thereby rarely raising the issue of pet guardianship and animal trusts when discussing other estate planning issues with their clients. All responsible pet owners need to have a contingency plan in place for their pets; something concrete to ensure their pets will be taken care of should something unexpected happen to them. Start by naming, at least, two responsible friends or relatives committed to caring for your pets, permanently if you die, temporarily if you are hospitalized or incapacitated. If a committed friend or family member cannot be established then explore other avenues such as a pet sitter, rescue groups, or veterinarian technicians or students. Bequeathing your pet to somebody in your will is a good option and it is better than nothing at all but keep in mind that a will can be contested over a number of matters not necessarily having to do with the pet, in which case, the will can be held up in probate, putting the estate property, and this includes the pet, on hold for months at a time.

Wednesday, August 7, 2013

Beautiful Ways for Remembering Your Pet

Do you, or have you ever had a pet that you have loved as much as family? I remember when I was younger we always had pets. One of the hardest things that I ever had to endure was when one of them had passed away. For our family, we did not have any type of big ceremony when they passed away; we typically buried the animal in our backyard with a homemade cross. This was our way of honoring our pet and it was a means for us to remember them. I remember once, my grandmother had a dog that she loved a great deal. When he passed away, she had him cremated and then buried in a special cemetery for pets.
Special Pet Jewelry and Urns
In recent years, I have discovered that there are other, special ways for people to honor their pets. In today's society, there are a long line of pet urns and jewelry that are on the market. These have been specially created for the storage of the remains of beloved pets that have passed away. The great thing about many of these different urns is that they come available in a broad range of sizes, shapes, and designs. These urns come with accented paw prints or in simple and elegant designs. 

Monday, July 29, 2013

A Guide To A Stress-Free Pet Relocation

Moving to another country all the way across the globe because of a job promotion is a hard decision to make. Leaving a pet that one has come to love can even be harder. Nonetheless, if one decides to take a pet along when moving to a new country, one must be aware of regulations that such country may have regarding bringing in pets. Some countries have relatively more relaxed rules that aim to generally prevent poaching and the spread of diseases carried by animals and some countries have stricter regulations when it comes to bringing in animals, even those considered as pets, into the country.
Some of the regulations include prohibiting certain animals from entering the country. The most common pets that are prohibited are dogs because they carry deadly rabies. Hence, some countries may require the pet-owner to secure a permit which may involve presentation of documents such as full vaccination and rabies-neutralizing antibody test, among others. This particular regulation is relaxed with countries that are either known to be rabies free or have rabies under excellent control.
Unsuccessful pet relocation have been known to cause problems such as denial of entry to the country of destination, denial of flights despite a scheduled one, refusal of airport authorities to release the pet after having arrived at the destination, and unnecessarily forced into quarantine stations. 

Thursday, July 18, 2013

Should Your Family Adopt a Rabbit?

There's no question that rabbits are cute, soft and fuzzy, but is a rabbit the best pet for your family? People are drawn to rabbits because they are quiet and don't need as much space as other pets.
While most are relatively easy to care for, rabbits do have specific housing and health needs. There are a variety of breeds that tend to have different temperaments, so it is important that you choose one that will get along well with your family.
As you consider adopting a rabbit there is a lot to think about, both for your family and to make sure your new friend has what he needs to be healthy and happy.

What is Your Family Like?
First, consider your family. What are the ages of your family members and what kind of lifestyle do they lead? Rabbits can be good pets for children, but if you have a toddler be ready to supervise her interaction with the new pet. Toddlers are tempted to tightly hold and snuggle rabbits, which can make them feel uncomfortable and scared, which isn't a good scenario for the pet or the child.
Rabbits need to be handled gently and should never be chased or handled roughly. Some rabbits don't enjoy being picked up and may kick, bite or scratch if they are frightened. When a rabbit is scared or doesn't like how he is being handled, he may struggle or try to jump away, which could cause him to hurt the person holding him or himself.
Another thing to think about is what kind of lifestyle your family has. Rabbits need regular exercise, and most of the time someone will need to supervise exercise time to make sure the rabbit is safe. It is not a good idea to adopt a rabbit if no one will be able to help him get some exercise and care for him throughout the day.
If your family is looking for a quiet pet that enjoys companionship, and will be with your family for several years, a rabbit may be a good fit.
Can You Provide a Good Home for a Rabbit?
Rabbits who have a good home and are well cared for can live for 10 to 12 years. As you consider adopting a rabbit, remember that he will need plenty of space, a clean environment and someone who can take responsibility for providing grooming, a proper diet and veterinary care.
Most rabbits are timid, and do best in a quiet home. They aren't able to tell the difference between loud noises that signal danger and happy sounds like laughter, so any kind of noise could frighten your new pet.
Your rabbit will need a safe, secure space in your home to call his own. Use a crate that is not made of wire and which is at least three or four feet long. This cage will need to be cleaned frequently and you should check it often to make sure it is not damaged in any way. Rabbits need ways to use their mind and stay busy, so provide toys like a cardboard box, towel or left over fabric. You can also purchase toys specially designed for rabbits at a pet store.
Ideally, you need to have space in your home where you can let your rabbit out of his pen to get some exercise. You can block off an area with a puppy play pen or you can let him roam around your home, as long as it is safe. Rabbits need to chew to keep their teeth in good health, so keep things like wires, plants, shoes, and anything else he might chew out of your rabbit's reach.

Wednesday, July 3, 2013

Can a Person Come Back As a Pet After Death or Can an Animal Come Back As a Human?

Every living thing humans, animals, rocks, trees, water all have a specific energy pattern or electromagnetic vibrational frequency range that sustains the physical form it inhabits. Energy can easily reform at a like or lower level.
What is the difference between human energy and animal energy? A healthy human frequency has a range of 68- 72 MHz FYI; each organ in your body had a specific vibrational identity. Vibrational medicine uses this information to address, correct and reconfigure unhealthy energy patterns in a person in order to resolve health problems.
Animal energy frequencies vibrate at a lower MHz level than human energy. That does not make them a lesser being. They simply have a lower frequency pattern to sustain their biological housing.
Can a pet reincarnate as a human? After almost 20 years of research and experience, animals do not usually reincarnate in human form because an animal's biological body has a lower electromagnetic frequency range than that of a human being.
Energy is not normally able to reformulate into a higher frequency than the original spirit. However in the Yogic transmigration belief of reincarnation there are 8.4 million life times that souls evolve through from beginning to end. This process starts with a single cell's life ands continues until that cell reaches the highest evolution possible which is considered to be a human form. This Yogic transmigration system also believes in due time an animal will eventually evolve into human form.
Using their transmigration theory, the Yogic belief implies that some animal souls prematurely skip several lifetimes in order to become a human before they have completed the incremental evolutionary process. This means that animal spirit moved into a higher biological body before their soul had learned the necessary spiritual lessons required to be evolved into a human being. Yogic believers consider that these under evolved reincarnated souls exhibit excessive "animal like" qualities when they are in human form.
As you are reading, keep in mind to always go with your inner guidance and what resonates with you.
The physical body that each soul chooses to inhabit must be in a frequency range that the soul can sustain for that specific lifetime. Example: a flower can't be a human, because its soul's normal frequency range does not match the final form it wants to exist in.

Tuesday, June 25, 2013

Tips To Find The Right Animal Hospital

Whether your cat is having an emergency health issue, or you need to bring your dog in for a routine checkup, you need to be sure your veterinarian is providing the highest quality care available. When it comes to picking the right animal hospital for you furry friend, you need to be sure you pick a clinic that can deliver exceptional care. As a pet owner, you want to make sure your buddy gets proper nutrition, maintains a healthy lifestyle, and stays safe. Finding the right veterinarian can go a long way to make sure your pet lives a full, happy life. There are a number of things to look out for when it comes to finding the right animal hospital.
Finding a vet who has the same pet ownership philosophies as you is quite important. You want to be sure that your doctor is on the same page as you about your pet's nutrition and well-being. Your veterinarian should also be able to communicate with you and your cat or dog well. Before committing to any particular vet, you should meet up for a consultation. Discuss your ideas and philosophies of animal care with the vet, and never be shy to ask any questions that you might have. 

Sunday, June 16, 2013

What Services A Veterinary Hospital Can Offer

Are you a pet owner? If so, you know how important your dog or cat's health is to you. Your furry friend is like a member of your family, so you want to be sure that your buddy receives proper healthcare services. That is why finding the right veterinary hospital for your pet is so essential. Whether you've just obtained a new pet, and you need to bring them in for vaccinations and a checkup, or you need to bring your pet to an animal doctor for a medical emergency, veterinary hospitals deliver a variety of services. While these services vary from place to place, you will find the following services offered at a variety of animal clinics.
Exams and Vaccinations
Preventative medicine is a great way to keep your pet healthy and free of parasites and diseases. Most veterinarians will suggest that you have your pet examined once a year. During this exam, you can discuss any concerns that you may have about your pet with the vet. You can talk about your pet's exercise needs, dental needs, and what diet is appropriate for your pet's health. The vet can also advise you on the proper vaccinations.
Behavior Counseling
If your dog or cat is being disobedient for any reason, you veterinarian can help you. He or she may be able to conduct an examination to determine what the cause of the problem maybe.

Thursday, June 6, 2013

Finding The Right Vet For Your Pet

You love your pets. Your dog or cat is like a member of the family, so whether you are moving to a new city, or it is just time for a change, you want to make sure you spend time to find the right vet for your pal. Finding the right healthcare provider for your furry friend is one of most essential decisions you will make as a pet owner. It is important to find a veterinarian who will provide your pet with the highest possible level of quality healthcare. There are a number of reasons you may be looking for a new vet. Whether you've just moved or you recently adopted a new dog, it is essential to do the research necessary to find the perfect professional to treat your pet. So where should you start?
It is always a good idea to consult other pet owners in your area. Whether it's friends, family, or neighbors, other pet owners can help you to get started. You will want to make sure you are asking other people who have the same approach and pet owner philosophy. You can also use the Internet and look for veterinarians using sites that specialize in reviewing health professionals. Reading reviews of other pet owners' experiences can be a good indicator of what you can expect with any certain clinic. You should keep an eye out for memberships with the American Animal Hospital Association which checks for certain standards of care and facilities for veterinarians and animal hospitals and healthcare clinics.

Friday, May 31, 2013

Animals Have Feelings Too

I was brought up to believe that all life was sacred, and that included the lives of animals.
As I grew up, I realized that some animals were bred for human consumption, and although this did not sit well with me I knew it was the way of the world, and accepted as normal practice. However I do have a problem with the killing of animals for sport, men and guns and traps taking the lives of innocent creatures. I have several white- tailed deer that wander through my garden, and although I often blame them for the destruction of my plants (and emptying my bird feeders!) I watch them as they care for their young. How could this beautiful creature be slaughtered and it's young be an orphan just to satisfy a need for man to kill?
I work with my local humane society, and I am shocked at the many cats and dogs that are cruelly treated. One cat had been shot in the mouth by a group of teenagers and had been lying in pain for several hours before being found. It had to have a complete jaw reconstruction, at a great cost to the owner, and suffered many hours of pain. Another instance where a kitten had been placed in a microwave, just so that the owner could see how it would re-act.

Sunday, May 26, 2013

What Constitutes A 'Retaliation Situation'?

The term 'whistleblower' has been in the news a lot lately and often has an unfairly negative connotation of espionage or betrayal. Certainly the psychological pressure on employees to remain loyal to their employers and not reveal illegal or unfair practices can be very powerful, and the individuals who do expose a wrongdoing should be celebrated and not vilified in most situations - and also protected.
Florida law does offer considerable protection to so-called 'whistleblowers' as long as they fit the three definitions under F.S. 448.101-448.105 that spell out what the terms employer, employee, and retaliatory action mean.
Employers and Employees
Under Florida whistleblower law, an employer is defined as any private entity that employs ten or more people, whether an individual, partnership, corporation, or association. Thus the whistleblower laws protect employees of even very small companies or other forms of employer. An employee is defined as an individual who performs services under the control or direction of an employer as defined above in return for wages or other renumeration - this excludes independent contractors.

Thursday, May 2, 2013

Learning More About Pomsky Breeders

One of the hybrid breeds of dogs available today is the pomsky dog, which is a cross between a husky and a Pomeranian. Puppies, like any living creature, can change over time, whether it is their disposition or their color, so it is important to understand these characteristics before purchasing one. It is also important to understand the training required to raise a happy, healthy dog. This article will help you learn more about pomsky breeders.
The appeal of a pomsky dog is its playful nature and its beautiful, fluffy coat. Both husky and Pomeranians are known as fun, beautiful dogs, so it has become one of the most popular cross-breeds around. These dogs are both intelligent and energetic, looking for a way to interact with people. They enjoy playing with toys and taking part in the games. Therefore, it can be a great breed for your family. For an interesting experience, raising two pomsky puppies together will provide for entertaining interactions as they grow up.

Tuesday, April 30, 2013

Selecting an Appropriate Memorial For Your Pet

When a greatly cherished pet passes away it can be a very challenging time for everyone. The barrenness and feeling of loss that comes with the passing of a pet can be very upsetting and to assist you with coming to terms with the bereavement, and to help uphold the memories of your dearly loved pet you could think about honoring the existence of your pet with a commemorative memento.
Photo Commemorative Plaque
When the time comes to choose a long-term commemorative plaque of your pet then you may possibly want to mull over utilizing a much loved photograph of your pet as the foundation of a strikingly beautiful memento. The photograph can be utilized to construct a painting or portrayal of your much-loved pet and the variety of resources used comprise oil paints, watercolors, pastels, and charcoal. What's more, there is a emergent tendency to use the remains of your pet within the painting itself, and this is accomplished by incorporating the ashes with acrylic or oil paints in order to produce a work of art of your pet that will stand the test of time.

Wednesday, April 17, 2013

Animal Care

You will find that most veterinarians and so called animal health care practitioners say that, "A healthy pet is a happy pet." This is just not so. In fact it is just the opposite, "A Happier pet is a healthier pet."
As a healer and what has become known as a whisperer I have had many occasions to work on and help animals such as dogs, cats and horses. This is very rewarding work and the payment I receive for this is the affection of the animal. Animals are not subject to the placebo effect so when they jump up and run around pain free after years of suffering from arthritis there is no doubt that what I did was real and effective.
Animals, as a general rule, don't complain about their problems. If it is bad enough then they wince or stumble or cry then the problem/pain is very bad. That is the only time you will hear from them about their problems. For this reason having a regular checkup is a good thing to do for your pet. Just as in humans, if you let the problem continue in hopes that it will go away it only compounds and causes further problems making the cure more involved and time consuming.
Most problems such as arthritis are easily curable. I am not saying that masking the problem with drugs or surgery is a cure. In fact these things only make the problem worse because they only mask the pain and do nothing to correct the root cause of the problem. Just as in humans, taking a drug may alleviate the pain but if you stop taking the drug you see that it is still there. Why not make better use of the continuous stream of money spent on drugs to actually cure the problem?
Pain, stiffness, obesity, bad habits, etc. all have reasons for manifesting in the body. The reason veterinarians (and doctors) cannot cure these things is they don't realize that every person (and here I include animals in the definition of person) have different sources for their problems. Though many have the same or similar symptoms, the cause is different for each and no magic bullet exists to cure all. If problems manifesting the same symptoms always had identical causes then such diseases as the common cold would be long gone and forgotten.
As I said earlier, Happier = Healthier. Though all animals have similar reactions to emotional situations, they are most easily noticed in dogs. Dogs are probably the most loving and loyal creatures on Earth. They want nothing more than to be close to you and though they do not insist on it as a prerequisite to showing their love for you, they only want your love and affection in return. Being away from you for even short periods causes emotional problems which can translate into eating disorders, bad behaviors, nervousness, hyperactivity, illness and even death.

Monday, April 1, 2013

4 Easy Ways to Keep Your Pets Happy

Many times, humans confuse pet happiness with their own. The fact is it does not take too much to keep your pet's tail wagging. Make sure that you are meeting the needs of your pet with these 5 happy pet secrets.
Basic Needs
Pets have basic needs the same way human beings do.Your pet needs secure shelter, water and food. As a general rule, your pet will be happier the more secure and safe your pet feels. While this sounds simple enough, some folks still get confused about a pet's needs. There are a few things you can do to ensure these are met.
Get on a feeding schedule for your pet and keep this routine. Knowing that food comes routinely every day will keep your pet secure and happy.
For your pet, always keep water that is clean available for your four legged friend. Make sure it is full and fresh by checking it twice a day.
Weather considerations are important as well. A home that is too hot in the summer or not cold enough in the winter can spell disaster in terms of your pet's need for a secure habitat.
When you have to be away, you might want to take your dog with you. By doing this, your dog will be spared from separation anxiety and destruction that is induced by boredom.

Saturday, March 23, 2013

3 Tips for Flying With Your Pet on an Airplane

For many folks, going on trips without their pet is simply out of the question. A vacation away from Woofy, Mr. Pickles or Noodle is simply not a vacation. Rather, for many people, this could feel like a separation from companions you love,which is simply excruciating.
The good news is that for these people, modern travel via air has expanded to make inclusions of four-legged passengers. Pet travel is something that most airlines now offer, either in the cargo hold of the plane or in the cabin. Depending on what airline you select the costs of travel with your pet can vary. There are requirements and restrictions you will simply need to consider. Before your flight, make sure you find out all the information you will need. Here are a few tips you might want to consider when flying with your furry four-legged pal.

Tuesday, March 19, 2013

Protecting Your Pets From Those Nasty Ticks!

Ticks are common all over the United States in many sizes and varieties. The most common tick that is found locally here in Arizona is the brown dog tick. Many people do not realize this, but a tick is not an insect. It is actually an arachnid, just like spiders. They have 8 legs, which helps to differentiate them from other small insects.
There are four life stages of ticks: egg, six-legged larva, eight-legged nymph and adult. After a tick hatches from the egg it must eat blood during every remaining stage of its life to survive. This means that a tick may survive for up to three years if it is able to complete a full life cycle. However, most ticks die due to inability to find a host for its next feeding. Ticks can feed on a many different creatures including mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians. This includes your pets, of course!
A tick finds its host by detecting body odors, breath, body heat, moisture and vibrations of animals in their surroundings. Often, when not on a host, a tick is "questing" for a host. Questing means that the tick is resting on the tips of grass and shrubbery and just waiting for a potential host to brush past so the tick can climb on. Some ticks will latch on immediately; others will search for a spot where the skin is thinner.

Thursday, March 7, 2013

Should You Adopt A Dog?

There is no denying that a great many oldsters do live alone and may pass several days without seeing anyone, especially during the winter. The children are grown and have lives of their own to get on with and your friends are less mobile too. Television is your constant companion, and you can talk to it, but it is at best a one way conversation.
Why not talk to a dog instead? Now I know what you are thinking - too much work! But honestly, just between us, couldn't you use something to do? I thought as much.
A dog is a constant, loyal companion who will never argue about which TV show to watch and will ask for nothing more than food and a walk. A dog always has something to do and his favorite thing to do is whatever you are doing now. Dogs just want to be included - they love doing laundry and cooking dinner. They are not too keen on vacuuming; but that's OK, I bet you aren't either!
So I suppose the real question is not "should" you get a dog; but rather what kind of dog "should" you get? There is no wrong answer to this, but I suggest you give it some careful thought and seriously consider not getting a puppy unless you really like potty training.
  • The many other considerations include:
  • What is the state of your own health and where do you live?
  • Do you have any allergies?
  • Would you benefit from a large dog that needed two walks a day?
  • Would a small dog that was paper trained be a more realistic option?

Thursday, February 28, 2013

How To Analyze What Your Pet Eats

If you ask your veterinarian what to feed your pet chances are they will say "Something with quality ingredients that is well balanced." What does that mean? Not all foods are created equal; this goes for companies as well as ingredients. Folks, it isn't about name recognition. Don't be fooled by longevity in the industry.
Take a look at 2 labels:
#1 Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Oatmeal, Ground Barley, Ground Brown Rice, Tomato Pomace, Rye Flour, Canola Oil (preserved with mixed tocopherols, a natural source of Vitamin E), Tomatoes, Rice Bran, Deboned Whitefish, Natural Chicken Flavor, Carrots, Spinach, Sweet Potatoes, Apples, Blueberries, Ground Flaxseed, Ground Millet, Dicalcium Phosphate, Calcium Carbonate, Potassium Chloride, Minerals [Zinc Sulfate, Zinc Proteinate, Iron Proteinate, Ferrous Sulfate, Copper Proteinate, Copper Sulfate, Manganese Proteinate, Manganese Sulfate, Sodium Selenite], Vitamins [Beta-Carotene, Vitamin E Supplement, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Vitamin A Supplement, Niacin, Calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin, Vitamin D-3 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Thiamine Mononitrate, Folic Acid, Biotin, Vitamin B-12 Supplement], Choline Chloride, Taurine, Mixed Tocopherols (a natural preservative), Glucosamine Hydrochloride, Chondroitin Sulfate, Chicory Root Extract, Garlic, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Green Tea Extract, Dried Lactobacillus plantarum, Enterococcus faecium, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation products.

Tuesday, February 19, 2013

Catering to the Pet Palate

One can safely assume that a large percentage of the people in the world own a pet or two - be it feline or canine. They pull out all stops when it comes to taking care of them, whether it is grooming or feeding them. Specialized pet stores are stacked with all sorts of delicacies and gourmet offerings. With such a vast array to choose from, what should influence your choice?
Perhaps these are some things to look out for:
• First, the manufacturer has to adhere to industry guidelines stating that the product is complete and balanced in its nutritive value. You should find a label on the package saying just this. If this statement is missing, do not buy the product.
• The first few ingredients listed should give you an idea of the quality of the product - whole meat includes water and is preferable over meat meal, this does not include water. The list should include whole grains and vegetables.
• Look for the expiry date on the label.
• A high quality company will provide you with a website and phone number so you can call if you need to, for further information.

Sunday, February 3, 2013

Benefits of Buying Things From Allvetmed

We are living in an era where technology has taken over almost every aspect of our lives. The use of the internet and gadgets that make work easier is the order of the day. Pets are considered family by everyone that keeps one. Investing in their care and health is a priority at all times. Finding the right products is always not easy because you have to find the right shop and sometimes this can be a problem. Allvetmed is an online shop that makes this easier by offering drugs and products that are required for the health and welfare of our pets. The shop makes the process of looking for these products easier.
Allvetmed is an online pharmacy that deals categorically with drugs for your pets. You can order for the drugs conveniently at the comfort of your home. This is the main reason why people love shopping at allvetmed.com. You can easily find many of the drugs for your pet without having to travel for miles. It is also possible to order for these drugs at any time of the day. This is because the website allvetmed.com operates for twenty four hours. Therefore, you do not have to worry about being at the shop in time because the medication will always be available so long as you are ready to buy. They also have Allvetmed coupons that you can use on the website.
It is important to note that Allvetmed only carry medications and products that are approved by the FDA/EPA. This means that you do not have to worry about anything that you buy from allvetmed.com. They are safe for you to use on your pets. These relevant government bodies have checked them and have approved their use on your pets. It is also important to note that they have experts that will assist you while buying products online. 

Tuesday, January 29, 2013

Pet Relocation - Tips For International Pet Moving

We pet lovers must face the sometimes confusing task of moving our pets internationally with us. This can be confusing since the paperwork is different from country to country, and we sometimes worry about the well being of our furry friends. Well, throughout this article we will go over some tips for international pet moving that comes in form of questions you must ask yourself, and get the answers to, when you want to make your pet an international being.
Restrictions: Are my pets legal on the destination country?
One of the things you must be especially careful with is the countries' laws regulating pets. This is even truer if you have exotic pets such as snakes, tarantulas and so forth. If your pet is legal in your country it doesn't mean it is legal everywhere - so don't make a trip without proper research first, or you might get your pet confiscated, be charged for smuggling or even get your pet put down... and nobody wants that.
Documentation: What documents are required to import your pet? Pets are mostly treated as imported and exported goods when it comes to international travel. They also need heavy documentation in some cases, so another tip is that you should always research the proper documentation to back your pet. Ownership and birth certificate, as well as the receipt, may be needed in order to prove the pet is yours and indeed a pet and not a "smuggling good".

Sunday, January 13, 2013

BANG! BANG! Fireworks May Be Nice for People, But Not Pets!

As all of us pet owners know, our animals can be a little startled during firework displays. It's almost November, approaching bonfire night on the 5th, causing some real stress among our beloved dogs, cats and smaller friends. As their guardians, it is our responsibility to try and limit their anxiety and keep them as calm as possible.
Spotting some early signs of stress in your beloved friend is the first step in keeping their distress to a minimum. Look out for excessive barking or meowing, pacing the house and panting or sweating, loss of appetite, quaking or trembling, fouling in the house or hiding behind furniture. Knowing these signs can help you to identify their strain and do something to help them through this time.
Things you can do to prepare your dogs and cats for the fireworks and during the display include:
There was a 40% increase in the number phone calls about missing pets on Bonfire night last year, so remember to ensure your pet is micro-chipped!
Make a space especially for them to hide in if they need to, with pillows, blankets and comforting smells, from their toys or something of their owners. This will help them to manage with their fear; your pet should be able to access this space for a few weeks leading up to firework night, so they are comfortable with their surroundings.
A calming scent is a great way to keep your pets relaxed during the loud noises, so a great product is the Feliway Diffuser for cats, which can be purchased from us.

Saturday, January 5, 2013

How to Train an Older Dog

When you get a new dog, after the excitement of welcoming the new member of the family, whether it's a puppy or an older dog, the first question that comes into your mind is "how do I train him or him?" (I'm gonna talk about "him" for the sake of readability, not a special preference, OK?)
Of course, if it's a puppy, it's very easy to teach him basic obedience and house training. But, how to train an older dog? You have always heard "you can't teach an old dog new tricks", but nothing can be further from the truth. The way to go about it is to approach it as you would when training the dog of any age. Most importantly is building a bond with your new pet. It's a crucial step to be able to train him successfully. You have to develop a caring and loving relationship with him to win his trust. Talk to him, go for walks (never underestimate the importance of walking your dog, even if you have it big yard for him to play in), spend quality time together, have play sessions, etc. It's very important to develop trust, but there also has to be mutual respect between you and your pet. It takes time to develop trust, and respect will come from defining boundaries and treating any breach with firmness and fairness. You have to develop limitations, in order to develop respect, and you need respect to develop a bond.
Once you have built a bond with your dog, training him or teaching him anything at any age, should be doable, but always keep in mind that training an older dog will not always be as easy as training a puppy. House training an older dog will sometimes take more time and will require a lot more love and patience on your part, especially if he was not house trained before, but it can definitely be done.
House Training an Older Dog
If your dog is urinating and defecating in inappropriate places, first thing to do is rule out any medical problem. It's always a good idea to have your new dog checked by a vet when you first adopt him. Sometimes even a diet change might do the trick. Being an adult dog, they might have a problem like incontinence, which is treatable with medications. Have a good talk with your vet about all the possible medical reasons for the behavior.