Get
the Jump on Fleas and Ticks
Sometimes it seems as if the onslaught of fleas, ticks and mosquitoes
is inevitable. Now, with new long-lasting products in
flea and tick protection, your dog and surrounding environment can
be safe before there is a problem. First, long acting insect growth
regulators can now protect your home for entire seasons from fleas
and their eggs. Remember that 95% of flea populations live in the
home and outdoor environment, not on your pet. Next, long lasting
topical insecticides (e.g.Ð Defend Exspot or L.A. Preventic Spray)
can protect your dog for up to one month. These are not systemic
products, so insecticides won’t be introduced into your pet’s
bloodstream. When you bathe your dog be sure to reapply the product,
as shampooing causes most products to wash off. Finally, although
there is no scientific proof to support the claim that Brewer’s
Yeast can provide protection against fleas, it is a good source
of protein and some B-vitamins, and certainly cannot hurt your pet
Pet
Travel
Now that spring is upon us, can summer vacation time be far behind?
Here are a few simple steps to take for the pet on the go:
1. I.D. tags for both your pet and carrier— including pet name,
your name, address and phone number.
2. Use a carrier large enough for your pet to stand up, lie down
and turn around in. Be sure to label it
LIVE ANIMAL
and use arrows to show the upright position.
3. Freeze water in a plastic container and attach it inside the
carrier so your pet can lick it as it melts.
(Regular water will spill too easily.)
4. Don’t tranquilize your pet unless you’ve discussed
it with your veterinarian.
5. Feed a light meal approximately 5 hours prior to travel.
It’s
Shedding Cats & Dogs!
Hair loss is a normal response to hot weather. The animal’s
body rejects dead hairs and eliminates excessive covering.
We can help to decrease the amount of fur on our clothes and furniture
by doing the following: Brush or comb your pet daily.
NOTE: For cats don’t use a pointed comb. You’ll hurt their
sensitive skin.
Make sure the tips are dull or soft so they’ll enjoy it. Ask
your pet store which comb is right for your pet.
• Bathing and grooming your pet on a monthly basis will
help you to get rid of dead hairs and skin. Be sure to use a pet
shampoo.
Human products are too astringent and tend to dry out the coat.
• Bath oils and coat conditioners help to keep the skin
moisturized, which means less shedding. Rub them gently into the
coat with your hands—they’ll love the attention. (And
remember most cats dislike sprays— it scares them.)
• Be sure to feed a quality food. Not all pet foods
are the same. So, try to find one with high Omega fatty acids to
help
improve your pet’s coat quality.
Hot
Dogs in the City
Did you know that dogs can only perspire through their foot pads?
The only other way for them to lose body heat is by panting, thereby
taking in more air to keep a constant body temperature. Therefore,
the warmer the air where your dog is kept, the hotter your pet becomes.
This is why a hot, enclosed car is a very dangerous place for your
dog—even for a short time! Summertime also means jogging and
long walks for you and your pet. Remember to bring water for both
of you, and try to stay in the shade. If your pet is playing for
long periods, make it stop, rest, and drink clean water. When going
out, try to stay on the sidewalks and avoid the streets. That hot
tar will not only stick and burn your friend’s pads, it will
cause licking and chewing of the paws. Not to mention, it will ruin
your floors and carpeting at the end of your day. Be sure to remove
tar carefully so as not to cut or injure the pad. Your veterinarian
or groomer can help you with a difficult case.
What’s
Up, Doc?
Perhaps you can’t imagine your fluffy friend biting through
a tree trunk, but because rabbit’s front teeth are constantly
growing, they need something to chew on. Some people gather large
tree branches while most people just go to their local pet supply
shop and buy chew items designed especially for rabbits. Also, have
your rabbit’s teeth checked periodically. Why? They may need
to be clipped!
Watch
the Birdie
Here’s What to Look for in a healthy bird: •
Stays on the perch rather than on the bottom of the cage.
• Droppings should be semi-solid.
• Check food to see if shells are broken and seeds are
eaten. • Feathers look shiny and
well kept—not puffed up, split or chewed. •
Bird seems cheerful and lively. •
Avoid Eucalyptus leaves, corn cob or walnut shell litter.
If you find your bird does not pass this check list, then bring
it to your veterinarian. A bird’s health and condition can
change as quickly as overnight. Birds can benefit from a doctor’s
visit just the same as dogs and cats.
One a Day
Most commercial pet foods are formulated to provide the necessary
nutritional requirements for the average pet. But exercise, stress
and illness can detract from a pet’s daily nutritional intake.
These deficiencies can even cause a weakened immune system, slow
recovery from sickness and even overall lethargy. A daily vitamin
can help to replace these nutritional deficiencies. And vitamins
serve not only as dietary supplements, but as well deserved treats
too.
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