Pet Insurance Is Vital To Your Financial & Emotional Health

Pet insurance was front and centre during my last visit to the vet. As we were standing in a line, a woman came screaming into the lobby, carrying her bleeding and crushed dog in her arms. He had been hit by a car and was near death. The dog was dying and she didn't have pet insurance. The woman was hysterical. The retriever had been in their family for 10 years and she was frantic about what would she tell the kids if she didn't bring their best friend home. The vets came running out and assessed the dog quickly on the spot. He needed emergency surgery, blood transfusions, x-rays and fluids. What did she want to do, they asked her. The cost to save her dog's life could be as high as $5000. They asked her again what she wanted to do. This just added to the woman's tears. I'll find a way, she said, do you what you have to do. They asked her if she had pet insurance and she said no. My goodness, I thought. Where would I come up with $5000 to save my pet if my credit cards were charged up? In that moment, I realized that the $15 per month I spent on pet insurance for each of my cats was not option. In fact, the pet insurance was vital to our financial and emotional health. What is pet insurance? Pet Insurance is a policy that covers your household pets such as cats and dogs as long as they're healthy. That means if an emergency medical situation arises like the dog above, I can make the best choices for the comfort and health of my pet. Pet insurance usually covers more than just the vet bills. It can also cover emergency kenneling costs, theft and travel. Piece of mind and emotional health for pet owners. Millions of dog and cat owners treat their pets like members of the family. My four cats are members of our family. I cannot imagine the trauma and distress of trying to make a life or death decision based solely on our ability to pay. Pet insurance means I never have to make that decision. That gives me great comfort similar to what I feel knowing my kids are looked after through my life insurance if something happens to me. Pet insurance means unexpected bills won't cause you financial hardship. Pet insurance can take away the financial worries when a pet is seriously ill. Knowing this, when I first discovered pet insurance in the late 1980's (while renewing my life insurance) I jumped all over it. At that time, $25 per month to cover three cats seemed like peanuts. Today, I pay $60 for 4 cats. Are there different levels of pet insurance? Just like the different coverages on your life insurance policy, pet insurance plans are the same. There are usually different levels of coverages available where different values or events are covered. Usually the higher the monthly payment, the greater the value of coverages. Different aspects of coverages you need to review include Vet's Fees, Coverage for Life, Accidental Damage, Death from Illness, Death from Accident, Advertising & Reward, Theft or Straying, Third Party Liability & Legal Expenses, Boarding Kennel Fees, Holiday Cancellation Costs and Overseas Travel. When should you get pet insurance? I have insured all of my cats within the first six months of life. It is often difficult to get insurance for older pets. Usually pre-existing illnesses will not be covered. That's why it is important to think about insurance as soon as possible.

The Eleventh Commandment: Care For Your Pets

Pets are an extension of one’s life and love. Caring for pets means one has the ability, skill and heart to give love and take good care of one of nature’s creations. The following are tips and advice to consider when caring for that furry feline, canine, tweety, crawly, etc. friend of yours.

Clean, clean, clean and clean

Sanitation is an all important aspect of a pet’s existence. It is important that pets must be washed and cleaned regularly. Also, dishes used by pets must be separated from those dishes used by other human members of the household. Rinse the dishes used by pets with boiling water, this is after they have been washed thoroughly with soap and water.

As mush as possible, do not let children kiss any and all forms of animals. Dishes used by children should never, ever be shared with pets. Wash your hands quickly and thoroughly after handling pets, pet foods, their cages, boxes, etc. Make sure that pets have been vaccinated appropriately against any and all forms of disease.

Know which does and which does not cause poison

Be aware and be in the know with regards to the kinds of poisons that are available in and around your house. Any products that are lethal for pets must be very well kept out of their reach. An example of these products are the following: pesticides, cleaners, fertilizers, detergents. However, in such a case where the animal is suspected of ingesting such chemicals, make sure that the pet is kept quiet and warm.

It is also important that the poison ingested is immediately determined as well as the quantity swallowed. Most importantly, the nearest animal doctor or the center for poison control is contacted as soon as possible.

Tis the season to have fleas

For pets, especially dogs, fleas and its bites is so annoying and irritating. Pets scratch, pets also chew. After which, what could follow is a very painful and uncomfortable process of more scratching and skin rashes or breakout.

Take note, fleas that have grown into full fledged adults are more dangerous to the health of your pets to the extent that they could cause serious health problems such as dermatitis, allergy, tapeworms. Believe it or not, these fleas could also cause your pet to have anemia. These diseases that are flea-related actually is the leading cause of almost fifty percent of skin-related cases checked up by vets.

The best thing in order to avoid these fleas is to prevent their causes rather than just simply cure them.

Veterinarians have a good idea as to the specific and latest products that effectively kills fleas, their eggs and any larvae.

Choose your vet wisely

The best way to choose the appropriate vet is by thinking how this vet bests suits your wants and needs with regards to the health of your pet as well as the needs of your pet. Good vets usually take a pet history. Records of immunization, health, medications, traits and attitudes of your pet are taken in detail and kept.

Vets must always have your pet’s need as their priority. The following are a few of the best ways to finding that perfect vet for your pet: ask a friend who knows. Friends who also care sincerely for animals or own one usually have a good vet in mind or are having their pets checked up to one.

In summary, pets are human’s best friend. And as best friends they should be treated the same way that humans must be appropriately treated; with care, respect and lots of love.

Article Source: http://www.articledashboard.com

Robert Thatcher is a freelance publisher based in Cupertino, California. He publishes articles and reports in various ezines and provides pet care resources on www.justpetcare.info.

Canine Dental Care: Make Dog Tooth Cleaning Part of Your Regular Routine

We brush our own teeth daily, but sometimes we forget our dogs need regular tooth cleaning too. Just like humans, poor dental hygiene can lead to health problems and tooth decay in our furry friends.

According to research, by the time your dog is three years old there is already an 80% chance that he already has some gum problems due to plaque and tartar buildup. Typical signs are redness or bleeding gums, bad breath, and loose teeth. Even annual or semi-annual professional cleanings at your vet's office may not be enough to prevent tooth problems in your dog. Regular tooth cleaning at home needs to be part of your dog's grooming program. (It’s not as hard as you think, honestly!)

Dog Tooth Cleaning at Home

You can prevent some gum or tooth problems by regularly brushing your dog's teeth at home. Dog toothpaste comes in great flavors like beef and poultry. Once you get your dog accustomed to feel of the toothbrush and having his mouth handled, he may actually learn to enjoy the brushing process.

My dog LOVES to have her teeth brushed-â€"no kidding! Our friends, especially their kids, are quite entertained when they watch the process. As soon as she sees me pull her toothbrush and dog toothpaste out of the cupboard, she gets excited. I sit on the couch, she gets "in position" between my knees and puts her head on my knee.

She loves the taste of both the beef and poultry-flavored dog toothpastes. Unlike human toothpaste, dog toothpaste is meant to be swallowed. She likes it so much that we go through a lot of toothpaste. She licks it as I brush, so I need a dollop for each side of her mouth. It still beats the cost of remedial care if she had tooth and gum disease from lack of canine dental care.

OK, So How Do You Get a Reluctant Dog to Accept Tooth Brushing?

We were lucky in that we started getting our dog accustomed to tooth cleaning when she was a puppy. Here are some tips on how we got her used to tooth cleaning. It is not difficult; it just takes a little time and patience. It will work with adult dogs as well as puppies.

Supplies needed:

• Dog toothpaste (beef or poultry flavored works best)
• Dog toothbrush (Be sure to get one specially for dogs with soft bristles. We like the kind with a curved handle; it is easier to reach the back teeth)
• Dental pads (if desired)
• Lots of treats to start

  1. Get your dog used to having his mouth handled. Gently hold his muzzle with one hand and stroke it with the other hand. Lift his upper lip to expose his teeth. Give him a tasty treat as a reward. Repeat this procedure for several days until your dog feels comfortable with your hands near his mouth.

  2. Get your dog used to the toothpaste. Try putting a dab on your finger and touching it to your dog's teeth and gums. If your dog balks at this, try dipping your finger in peanut butter or something else yummy to dogs like beef or chicken broth, for the first few tries. Then switch to the dog toothpaste once he seems comfortable. I recommend the beef or poultry flavor toothpaste versus mint flavored. Dogs seem to like them better than mint. Praise your dog, telling him what a good boy he is. Repeat daily for the next two or three days.

  3. Get your dog used to tooth cleaning. Using plain gauze or a piece of soft cloth wrapped around your finger, or a dental pad or sponge, dab on some dog toothpaste and gently wipe your dog's teeth and gums using a circular motion. Praise your dog for being good. Repeat this process for the next few days.

  4. Ready for real tooth brushing. Put some toothpaste on your dog's toothbrush. Hold his muzzle gently and with a finger lift his lip on one side. Gently brush his teeth using a circular motion, and go all the way to the gum line. Be sure to get his back teeth too, then add a little more toothpaste if needed and go on to the other side.

  Try to make your dog's tooth cleaning a daily habit. If you can't manage to do it daily, try every other day. It only takes a couple of minutes, you just have to get in the habit of doing it.

  Last, REMEMBER TO MAKE IT FUN and REWARD YOUR DOG. With a little time and patience, you will soon find your dog, if not exactly anticipating the tooth cleaning, at least cooperating. His clean teeth and fresher breath will be worth the effort.

  Valerie Goettsch is web master of My Favorite Dog, a website featuring dozens of articles and information on where to find the best of everything for your dog, from flea meds to beds, training and designer dog clothes.

Looking After Your Dog, Part Six - Dog Health Insurance

Pet health insurance is not a novel idea by any means. The concept has been around for 15-20 years. Many people believe that having medical insurance for a pet is not justified, and is rather something that depicts indulgence. However, the truth is that pet health insurance has nothing to do with being lavish. It purely depends on how much you care for your pet. It is the question of whether you consider your pet a part of your family, and therefore, would want to have it insured.

Pet health insurance plans take several aspects into consideration before awarding an insurance cover. The decision may be based on several considerations - species, age, pre-existing health conditions and lifestyle of the pet (i.e. a docile one compared to one of a sports dog). A few of the pet insurance companies don’t have an age limit. However, it’s easier to get pet health insurance if your pet isn’t too old. Therefore, insurance schemes typically start off at an early age of around 6 weeks for a dog.

The decision to have pet health insurance also depends a lot on your pet’s current health. If, God forbid, your canine is suffering from a fatal ailment, then there is no point having him insured. Moreover, getting insurance in such a case is all the more difficult to say the least. Pet health insurance costs vary widely owing much to the broad variety of insurance packages available. Comprehensive pet health insurance schemes cover the costs of annual checkups, vaccinations, routine care and preventive medications, and spay/neuter surgeries. Partial plans only cover accident and illness costs.

Insurance schemes are not for everyone. It might be the case that your dog’s current health condition does not satisfy the requirements of the insurance company. But you should not be disheartened in such a scenario. Some medical facilities offer pet wellness packages, which allow you to avail vaccinations and pet health checkups at discounted prices. You could go ahead for one such scheme.

Best Pet Health Information is a resource that brings you information about many aspects of dog health insurance. http://www.Best-Pet-Health.info. Dog News Center - Dog Article Directory - Submit Your Articles Now

Copyright Best-Pet-Health.info All rights reserved. This article may be reprinted in full so long as the resource box and the live links are included intact.

Learn About Real Cat Care

If you are one of the many people lucky enough to own a cat or several cats as pets, then you need to take time and make the effort to learn proper cat care. One of my biggest struggles with people is that they choose to have pets but then do nothing to intentionally take good care of them. This is why, as a veterinarian, I make all of my clients come to a seminar about good cat care and dog care before they can receive services at my office.

Many other veterinarians think that this measure is extreme and that I cannot really subject all of my clients to that kind of seminar. While I have had a few clients disagree with my tactics, the majority of my clients have submitted to my request without hesitation. Why? Because I believe that people know that they need to learn proper cat care or dog care and so they are willing to atttend a seminar.

I believe that taking the time and energy to learn proper cat care or dog care is absolutely essential for all pet owners. People need to realize that owning a pet is a serious responsibility that cannot be taken lightly. On the contrary, it must be given attention. I pride myself in being a veterinarian that is committed to preventative care by teaching my clients how to give good cat care and dog care. I find that the more education pet owners get at the start, the less problems they have that need my attention.

If you are considering getting a cat, then I suggest you slow down a bit and take the time to really learn about proper cat care. Inform yourself about the reality of being a pet owner. Learn what your responsibilities will be before you commit to taking them on. If you are not sure where to look for information on good cat care, then talk with a veterinarian or other cat owners near you. An even easier method is to head off to your local library and check out a few good books on the subject of cat care. Inform yourself. Get online and see what you can learn about even the basics of cat care. The more you learn, the less question marks you will have later.

Cats are amazing animals and they make great pets. Do what is most loving for your pet and learn about good cat care before you bring your new cat home to stay.

Article Source: http://www.articledashboard.com

Julee Mitchelsin is a veterinarian that is passionate about teaching good cat care methods to future and current pet owners. See www.catcarehelp.info for more details.

Can Your Pet Stomach This?

Can Your Dog Stomach This?

There’s an old adage that says “You are what you eat�. While more and more Americans are becoming aware of the need to reduce or altogether eliminate processed foods from their diets, we need to do the same for our pets. The ingredients that make up most commercial, processed pet foods are not fit for even non-human consumption.

To be fair, not all manufacturers use poor or potentially dangerous ingredients. In fact, there are a few that use human grade, healthy ingredients. But most pet food widely available on the shelf of the local discount store should be a source of concern for pet owners.

The sources of protein used vary vastly. Any slaughtered animal, cattle, swine, poultry, lamb â€" is a source of pet food protein. Well, that doesn’t sound so bad but the question is this: what parts of that slaughtered animal is in my pet’s kibble? Bones, blood, intestines, lungs, ligaments, beaks, feet, undeveloped eggs, and feathers are termed by-products by the industry and are a questionable source of nourishment for our animals.

Fat is added in the form of discarded restaurant grease and “animal fat� that is a by-product of the rendering process. These fats are highly saturated and lack the linoleic acid essential to healthy coat and skin.

Many of the grains used come from wheat rejected for human consumption. Brewer’s rice, a low quality rice product is void of the nutrients found in whole rice. Corn gluten is the dried residue left from the milling process. Glutens are added to slow down the transition of rancid animal fats. This holds waste in which causes kidneys and livers to work overtime and our pets pay the consequences with ill health.

Fillers are often used that consistent of wood pulp, corncobs and peanut hulls.

Our pet’s food is filled with additives and chemical preservatives such as BHA, BHT and ethoxyquin which are potential cancer-causing agents.

According to the Animal Protection Institute, “to make pet food nutritious, manufacturers fortify it with vitamins and minerals. Why? Because the ingredients they are using are not wholesome…and harsh manufacturing processes destroy many of the nutrients the food had to begin with�.

It is not unusual for commercially prepared pet foods to be contaminated with bacteria and endotoxins from using diseased animals rejected by slaughterhouses for human consumption.

The bottom line here is that ingredients in many of the commercially prepared, pre-processed pet foods vary widely in content and quality and are marginally nutritious at best. Pre-processed foods are a major source of allergies and chronic digestive problems in our pets.

What can you do? Consider replacing commercial foods with an all- natural dry food. Supplement with fresh foods. Many people are trying raw diets for their pets and more and more pet owners prepare their pet’s food fresh daily. There are many books on the subject and lots of information via the Internet.

If you are interested in learning more about natural pet foods, please visit www.naturalbarker.com and read about Barker and Friends Natural Pet Treats and Flint River Ranch All Natural Pet Foods for dogs and cats. We use only human-grade, natural ingredients to protect the health of our pets. You may request a free sample of Flint River Ranch by emailing Barker and Friends at creaturecomfortsnewsletter@cox.net.

If you would like to find some good books on the topic of pet nutrition, visit our website www.naturalbarker.com and click on the Amazon.com link on our Links page.

To receive Creature Comforts Pet Care Newsletter on a regular basis, email us at creaturecomfortsnewsletter@cox.net.

Sherry Massey is the owner of Barker and Friends Natural Dog Treats and a distributor for Flint River Ranch Natural Pet Foods. Natural nutrition for our pets is just as important as it is for us. We can give our furry friends a longer, healthier life simply by feeding them whole, all natural foods and eliminating chemical preservatives and additives from their diet. Its never too late to start.

Your Dog's Nose

Unlike other parts of the body, the dog nose does not need any cleaning or taking care of. A dog's nose is usually cool and moist, but a warm, dry nose is not necessarily a reason for concern. A warm, dry dog nose can be a problem only if there are other characteristics associated with it, such as cracked skin, scabs or open sores with changes in the color of the nose. Dogs can also be prone to sunburn on their noses which can lead to skin cancer. A dog owner should pay attention to any physical changes in their dog's nose. For instance:

Any type of discharge from your dog’s nose can indicate a health problem. There are many illnesses associated with nasal discharge, such as sinus infections, kennel cough, distemper, etc. Dogs do not get colds, therefore, this can also be a sign of a respiratory infection. Do not ignore this. This requires a trip to the vet.

If your dog is experiencing breathing problems and/or sneezing a lot, this may be a sign of a tumor or other type of mass which should be removed in order to avoid any later complications, such as cancer. These symptoms can also indicate a foreign object in the nostril. Do not attempt to remove it yourself as the nasal passages are very delicate and can be perforated easily. Have your vet take care of it. Keep in mind that an occasional sneeze may just be a sign of an irritation in the nose or excitement from playing.

Sometimes a dog's nose will change color. This can be caused by having your dog eat or drink from a plastic dish. There is a reaction with a substance in the plastic which causes color change. Stainless steel bowls for food and water are highly recommended. Other causes of color change are vitaligo (loss of skin pigment) and cold weather. Color usually goes back to normal in warmer climate. This is usually no reason for concern.

Nancy Settecasi, Owner of Happy K-9 Dog Care Proud owner of Skippy and Cookie, Cocker Spaniels Dog Lover ttp://www.happyk-9.com

How to Choose Dog Treats

Dogs are just like people when it comes to liking something. They have different tastes and feelings towards different things. Certain dogs may like one taste of dog food while another may not even give it a chance. The only way to know what your dog will like for dog treats is to try different ones and go from there. There are so many different kinds and tastes when it comes to dog treats. The different flavors may not be as agreeing with all dogs. The only way to know if your dog will like a certain dog treat is to give him one and see what the dog's reaction is. If the dog likes this particular dog treat, then he will surely let you know by wagging his tail, and licking his lips. If the dog hates this dog treat, chances are he will drop it to the ground, sniff it and walk away all after he gives you a very dissatisfying look. This is how most dogs would react. Some dogs may even bark at you as if to say, "what were you thinking". However, this is the only way that you will ever know if the dog agrees with your choice in treats or not. If you have more than one dog, you may find that they all like a different treat. If this is the case, then you will have to buy more than one brand of dog treat. When this happens, it may be hard to keep them straight especially if you have a few dogs. The best way to keep the dog treats separate and know which one is for what dog, you will have to put them in separate containers and mark them. There is crunchy, soft, sweat, and salty dog treats available. There are so many that you will be sure to find a few dog treats that your dog will love. Keeping the dog treats in airtight containers with lids will keep them safe and secure from the dogs as well. They will not be able to help themselves when they feel like it. Use clear plastic or glass containers and write the dogs name on the outside of the container so that you know what dog treats are for what dog. This will make your life a whole lot easier because you will not be mixing up the treats. That will make your dog just as happy and satisfied as you are.

Gourmet Dog Treat Recipes - Wascawwy Wabbit Cassewowe

Serves: 24 servings
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Healthy Hint:

Carrots are very high in beta carotene. We all know the old wives' tale that carrots can help improve your vision... well, that ain't no tale. Beta carotene is a big contributor to healthy eyes, skin, teeth, and bones. So serving this fantastic meal to your favourite friend will have him seeing in the dark in no time.

Ingredients:

• 480 ml (2 cups) pureed carrots (home made or baby food)
• 15 ml (1 tablespoon) unsalted butter
• 3 eggs
• 120 ml (1/2 cup) sugar
• 40 ml (3 tablespoons) dry milk
• 60 ml (1/4 cup) water
• 5 ml (1 tea spoon) cinnamon

Preparation & Cooking:

• Lets start by turning your oven on at about 180 degrees celcius or 350 degrees farenheit
• Now you can mix in the carrots and the butter together in a medium bowl.
• The beat in the eggs, sugar, dry milk, water and the cinnamon.
• Now get your casserole dish and lightly grease it.
• 
  
• Slowly spread the mixture in the greased casserole dish.
• Put the casserole dish in the oven and let it bake for about 30 minutes.
• After 30 minutes take it out and let it cool

To serve you can mix it with dry dog food or you can just put it in Fido's favourite bowl alone.

Justin Bryce is the Proprietor of http://www.dogtreatrecipes.com.au Stop by for over 400 gourmet dog treat recipes and fantastic dog health and care tips plus way's to spoil your dog.

How to Raise a Healthy Kitten

Selecting a Kitten

It is best to choose your kitten from the whole litter, choose the frisky playful, friendly kitten that is confident and happy to approach you rather than the one that hangs back and is shy. The best time to take your kitten home is between 7 and 8 weeks old. Some pedigree breeders like to keep the kittens until 12 weeks old so they can have their initial vaccinations. Some things you have to look for when choosing a new kitten or cat are:

The ears should be clean and no unpleasant smells.

White blue eyed cats are prone to deafness (all cats eyes are blue at this age) Test this by making sounds outside its field of vision.

Eyes should be clear and bright with no sings of weeping.

Gums should be pink (not red) and teeth should be white.

The coat should be clean and unmated with no fleas or flaky skin.

Check under the tail â€" this area should be spotless in a healthy cat.

Setting in your new Kitten or cat

It is probably best to have a proper pet carrier to take your new pet home in â€" to avoid extra stress. At let your new kitten or cat come out of the carrier at its own time. It will need time to settle down, so make sure it has fresh drinking water and a little food also make sure it can find its way to its bed and litter tray â€" then leave it alone for a little while. Make sure that children behave gently and quietly around the kitten, kittens need peace and quiet to sleep as well as needing laytime. It is best to keep your kitten confined indoors for a week or so and accompany your kitten on its first trip outside â€" continue to go out side with your kitten for the next few trips. This will give the kitten a sense of security and encourage it to come when you call. Your new kitten should integrate quite well with other pets, make sure that you can introduce them slowly. Some pets will integrate at all â€" make sure you keep small mammals and birds away from your kitten as their natural instincts will take over. Once your kitten has overcome its initial fears it will amuse it self for hours with very cheap simple toys like ping pong balls, cardboard rolls and small stuffed animals.

What Equipment your cat or kitten need

A bed: a cardboard box with a blanket or cushion in it â€" makes an ideal bed for a kitten as the kitten grows you may like to find a more permanent replacement, such as wooden box or a covered bed. You may like to keep in mind that it should ideally be washable when choosing a bed. Place the bed in a quiet, draught free, warm spot.
Grooming tools: â€" A brush - preferably with natural bristles is very useful for grooming any cat â€" for long haired cats you will also need a wire toothed metal comb and a pair of rounded scissors to cut out any tangles. A pair of feline claw clippers will complete your pussy cats grooming set.
A collar or harness: Your cat should wear a collar complete with an identification disk. The collar must be elasticized in case it gets caught â€" for example on a branch whilst climbing a tree. Some owners train their cats to go for walks on a harness or lead.
Toys: There are a huge range of toys available for cats making play of exercising fun and providing stimulation. Many stuffed toys contain catnip â€" this herb also called catmint appeals to many cats, creating an apparent sense of wellbeing â€" this lasts for approximately 15 minutes.

A scratching post

â€" Cats love to scratch. Scratching serves a couple of purposes â€" firstly it keeps the claws neat and trim â€" it also marks the cats’ territory as other cats will see the marks and smell the scent. The cat has glands between the toes that release this scent as the cat scratches.
A scratching post is the best solution â€" but the cat will need to be taught to use it from the very beginning. This will save your furniture, avoid using a carpet covered scratching post as the pet cat may see the house carpet as an extension of the scratching post. If the cat ha selected a piece of furniture where it like to scratch â€" by covering it with plastic for a while the cat will stop scratching there. Cats do not like the feel of plastic.

A litter tray

â€" A litter tray will be needed when your kitten first comes home and if you intend to leave the cat in at night. Choose a tray that is deep enough and roomy enough for your cat to turn around in easily. There are numerous varieties of kitty litter available â€" choose one that suits you. Also a covered litter tray is a great idea as it keeps the smell and the mess inside also creating a more private spot for your cat.

A Cat flap

â€" Cat flaps are a great idea to allow the cat to go in and out as it pleases. You must be careful however as other cats may also come in. check what flaps are available and choose the one that suits your needs. A cat is quite easily trained to use a cat flap â€" prop the flap open at first and call the cat through form one side than the other. When it has mastered this, lower the flap a little and use the same procedure â€" continue to do this until you can close the flap altogether.

Feeding your kitten

Ask the breeder or pet shop for a diet sheet so that you can continue feeding them the same diet and quantities. This will avoid you giving it too much food or an over rich diet which can cause tummy upsets. You should also find out meal times.

Food and feeding your cat

There are three types of cat food available commercially â€"moist food, semi â€" moist food and dry food. Cats need meat or fish everyday to be healthy.

Moist food as in the canned varieties is preferred by most cats because it closely resembles fresh meat. It also has the vitamins and minerals that the cat needs. How ever canned foods will not last long once served and it is best to take the food away after an hour to encourage your cat to eat its food in a single sitting rather that picking at it all day long.

Semi â€" moist food usually comes in a sachet. It keeps well in a bowl without drying out or loosing its texture and tastes good to cats.

Dry food contains very little moisture so it is very important to have fresh drinking water available.

Establish a feeding routine where you feed your cat once or twice a day â€" at the same place and the same time. Leave the food out for an hour then take it away. This will help to make your cat a healthy eater and not pick at the food all day.

Worming

The most common worms that affect cats are round worms and tape worms. Cats must be de-wormed regularly. Your vet will give you specific advice on worming products.

Following these simple steps will ensure you, your family and the newest edition to the family will have a happy, healthy and rewarding time together.

(c) Katharine Logan 2005 http://www.pet-library.com

Katharine Logan is author and content manager for Pet-library.com She conducts research on specified subjects to help people with day to day issues. For more click on:http://www.pet-library.com

African Grey Bird Care

The African Grey parrot is the most popular pet parrot kept today. They are extraordinary speakers and are also very lovable and sweet. However, they do require lots of love, patience and time. Make sure they are the right bird for you.

The African Grey parrot originates from Central Africa. It is medium grey in color and the feathers on the head have white edging. It also has a bright red tail and a solid black beak.

One of the things African Greys are most well known for is how well they speak. Their speech is very clear and easy to understand. They can even learn over 2000 words and can mimic any sound! However, don't buy an African Grey just for this reason. Some of them never speak at all.

African Greys are extremely intelligent. It is said that they have the intellectual capacity of a five year old child and are probably the most intelligent of the parrot species. Some have even been known to understand concepts like color and shape. This also makes them very demanding pets. They require constant attention and many toys to keep them busy.

African Greys form very strong bonds with their owners and can even respond to our different emotions. When you are sad, a bonded African Grey will comfort you. They learn so much from their owners! Once you win the trust of an African Grey, they will be your best friend. They are not very outgoing with strangers though. They are very loyal and dedicated birds.

The minimum cage size for African Greys is 18 inches long by 18 inches wide by 30 inches tall. Try to get the largest cage you can. Place the cage in a well lit area that is free from any drafts. You will need to get plenty of toys for your bird so they can get the mental stimulation they need.

A good diet is very important for any bird. Seeds should not be the only thing you feed. African Greys need a good pellet diet as well as fresh fruits and vegetables. Some fruits and vegetables that are good for them include broccoli, green peas, black eyes peas, brussel sprouts, banana and cantaloupe.

A major problem that many African Greys develop is feather plucking. This is actually a form of self mutilation. It can be caused by many things such as medical problems, behavioral problems, or stress. If you see your bird doing this, take him to the vet as soon as possible before it becomes really bad.

The hardest thing about keeping African Greys is the amount of time you must spend with them. Once your bird bonds with you, it will not want to be without you. Your bird will demand attention from you all the time. If this bird doesn't get enough attention or mental stimulation, it will likely form behavioral problems. Make sure you aren't going to be too busy to spend time with this bird before you purchase one. This bird is not right for everyone.

Michael Russell Your Independent guide to Driving Tips Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Russell

Hamster Care Requirements

Hamsters are the most popular rodents kept as pets. They are extremely easy to tame and take care of and are relatively inexpensive animals. Hamsters are a suitable pet for almost any household; children can even keep them!

There are many different types of hamsters: large, small, patterned, solid colored, longhaired and shorthaired. The most popular hamster is the Syrian. It is the largest variety and comes in either longhaired or shorthaired. The longhaired Syrian hamster is often called the "Teddy bear hamster". There is even a hairless Syrian! It also comes in many colors such as golden brown, white, cinnamon, cream, rust, gray, lilac, honey, yellow and black. An adult Syrian hamster reaches a length of six to eight inches.

The next most common hamster is the Dwarf Russian. It only reaches a length of three and a half to four and a half inches. The smallest hamster is the Roborovski. It is only two inches when full grown. The main difference between the Syrian hamster and other hamster species is that Syrian hamsters must be kept alone and the other species can be kept in groups. If Syrian hamsters are kept together, they will fight and can become seriously injured or even killed. You must keep only one Syrian in a cage.

You can buy hamsters at a pet shop or from a breeder. Make sure that the place you get it from spends lots of time with the hamsters and that they keep males and females separate. Hamsters can breed at a very young age so if you get a female hamster from a place that does not separate the males and females then you will probably be getting a pregnant hamster.

The hamster itself is usually very cheap. The cage and accessories make it more expensive. There are many types of hamster cages available at pet stores. Just make sure you get a cage enough space for the hamster to exercise and explore. The cage should also have a wheel in it so the hamster can get the activity it needs. When you get the cage, do not put it in direct sun or in a drafty place.

You will need to put shavings on the floor of the cage. Do not use cedar shavings because they contain oils that can hurt the hamster. Good materials for the shavings include pine, aspen, paper, or pulp. Your hamster will make its bed from the shavings so make sure you put enough in the cage for that.

There are many other types of accessories that you can buy for your hamster. Try to give some things made out of wood so your hamster will have something to chew on. This is good for their teeth. You will also need to provide food and water at all times. A water bottle works best for water because it will not be tipped over or get dirty like a water bowl will. There are many types of hamster food mixes that you can feed to your hamster. Just make sure that it is available all the time.

Once a week you should thoroughly clean the cage and change out the bedding. Make sure you clean all the toys and accessories as well. Rinse the cage completely so that no soap residue is left behind.

If you do these simple things, this will keep your hamster happy and healthy. They are very fun animals to watch and play with. They will surely keep you entertained!

Michael Russell Your Independent guide to Pet Care Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Russell

Water Chemistry For The Discus Tank

Much has been written about the Discus, or Symphysodon aequifasciatus, its Latin name. The Discus has always been given a bad rap for being hard to raise and difficult to keep. Actually, these long-lived fishes are easy to keep as long as certain guidelines are followed.

Here, we discuss the different water parameters that MUST be followed if we are to insure that our Discus friends are kept happy and healthy.

Testing the Waters

Initially, you will need to test for chloramine and chlorine, pH, and alkalinity. If you are a city dweller, a lot of this information can be gotten from the city waterworks, and although a good idea to do so, I would not recommend that you rely exactly on this information. At anywhere from $275 to $425 for a breeding pair, an initial investment for a decent PH/TDS meter is well qualified. Currently at King Discus Hatchery, we use a Hanna Combo PH/TDS meter that measures in ppt (parts per trillion) for the most accurate reading of our tanks.

Determining the levels of pH and alkalinity in your base water is the first step in this process. Although some base water is quite good for the discus with little or no buffering, some water will need extensive conditioning before the first Discus can be introduced into the tank. Once you know the levels of PH and alkalinity, water chemistry tests should be conducted on a regular basis.

Test on a regular basis. When you are comfortable with this process, it is time to and add a few more tests to the battery of tests performed.

These tests will be for nitrite and nitrate, phosphate. In the planted tank, you will need to also test for iron and CO2. Test kits are very easy to use if instructions are followed to the letter. A particular number of drops of the testing reagent must always be accurate, following instructions on the test kit, or test results can be skewed. Test kits and probes available for the aquarium are quite inexpensive and easy to use, and can generally be bought at your local pet supply store, especially if they specialize in aquarium keeping.

Toxins in the Water Supply

Be aware that Chlorine or chloramine are routinely added to the water in many urban areas. Using a simple color test kit to determine the presence and concentration of either is very advisable. Removing these elements of chlorine or chloramine is a vital part of the process to properly condition your water. Conditioning is carefully adjusting the chemistry of the water to raise it to the parameters required for Discus keeping. Aging the water through carbon filtration (mechanical), aging the water, and proper aeration will be of benefit. Be aware, though, that aeration will not remove chloramine from your water. Chlorine can also be removed by adding prepared chlorine removers, but Nick Lockhart, the breeder for King Discus Hatchery, is not fond of using buffering agents. Constant water changes in the Discus tank will only leach these buffers, and then you are unsure of where your water chemistry is at. Nothing will harm the Discus more than wild fluctuations of PH. It is much more advisable to use reverse osmosis or deionization. We use RO, with a special Peat Moss filter to accomplish our parameters. The process of RO with fine tuned filtration of the RO water will remove virtually all toxins, but one must be aware that Discus cannot live in pure RO water, and steps must again be taken to insure proper levels of acidity/PH in the RO water. Chloramine is a combination of chlorine and ammonia, and some water companies need to use this for disinfection of the water supply.

If these simple tests are done on a regular basis, and care is taken to insure that there are no wild PH swings in the Discus tank, your success as a Discus breeder are much higher.

Alden Smith is a published author, and has been marketing on the internet for 7 years. His website, King Discus, is an active gathering place for discus breeders and lovers of discus fish. His wife Betsy is the administrator of All The Best Recipes a site rich in online recipes and cookbooks.

Winter Wear and Hair Care for your Dog

The cooler seasons present some challenges for Pets and their owners. Consider this: Coats, Boots and Sweaters are great items for short haired dogs, but what about the dogs that have more than a little yet not enough hair to keep warm? BEWARE of the DOG! (Hair knots and matting that is.) If you choose some sort of winter wear for your four legged friend, please note that there are a few cautions you need to heed. Wearing clothes will make a dogs hair mat, knot up, dry out the skin and can generate static electricity in the the hair (causing even more knotting and those nasty little static shocks). Remove the clothing when you bring your dog indoors and brush or comb out immediately. It is helpful to use a hair moisturizing spray (Your pet supply store should carry an assortment of "leave in" conditioners or moisturizers) although plain water applied in a fine mist will be sufficient. Apply just enough to keep the static down as you brush or comb. If your dog spends extended periods outside in his coat or sweater you may find hair matting has already formed. Should these mats be too difficult to work out gently your best course of action would be to have a groomer "spot shave" the problem area. A GREAT IDEA! A preventive measure would be to have your dog groomer cut the body hair very short (not the legs, tail or rear and ears) including under the legs and get a few outfits for the dog. Enjoy the winter season in style! Your worries about matting and comfort will be eliminated! You will want to continue your normal hair care routine, but no more hassle of brushing your buddy before he mats. Not to worry about your dogs comfort indoors- if you keep your home warm enough for yourself it will be warm enough for your pet too! If you have questions regarding your dogs winter coat care, please visit my website http://www.carolsbows.com

Common Toxins and Foods

Food items that dogs may get exposed to by pilfering in the garbage or compost pile or rutting around in the yard can pose a problem. Ingestion of certain items can be especially troublesome for pets. Sprouted potato peels, moldy cheese and nuts (containing aflatoxins), peach, cherry or apricot pits (containing cyanide) or onions (resulting in red blood cell destruction), and grapes and raisins (resulting in kidney failure) can all result in toxicity. Chocolate, especially abundant and potentially accessible to your pet during Halloween, Christmas and Easter, is also toxic. According to the type of chocolate, it contains varying amounts of theobromine and caffeine. The darker, unsweetened type (as is often used for baking) has seven more times theobromine than milk chocolate. That is why dogs can eat the occasional piece of milk chocolate without any apparent ill effects. But serious illness can occur with the ingestion of as little as 0.25 oz of baking chocolate by a ten pound dog. Signs of chocolate toxicity are: vomiting, diarrhea, increased thirst and urination, lethargy, increased heart rate and heart arrhythmias, and occasionally, seizures and death. Ribbons, wrapping ribbons and tinsel, are tempting for cats, especially, kittens, and when ingested, they cause intestinal obstruction and result in vomiting and decreased appetite. Coins, when ingested, especially those containing high levels of zinc such as US pennies minted after 1982, will result in an inflamed pancreas (pancreatitis) and anemia. Ingestion of such foreign bodies is especially a concern with puppies. Liquid potpourris, popular during the holidays, can be toxic to pets by causing burns in the mouth or skin or eyes. They can be exposed by ingestion from simmering pots or spills, by rubbing against containers and when cleaning themselves. Ethylene glycol, found in anti-freeze and in smaller amounts in motor oil, will result in acute kidney failure. Animals are attracted by its sweet taste and even a teaspoon will kill a cat and less than four teaspoons will kill a 10 lb dog. Prestone's Low Tox TM antifreeze coolant contains propylene glycol, a safer ingredient that is relatively less toxic for pets. Metaldehyde is found in snail and slug bait, and it results in seizures and tremors in dogs that are attracted to the granules or powder, even when scattered in the garden. Iron phosphate products such as Escar-Go! or Sluggo are safer products for pets. Rat, mouse and gopher baits contain a variety of toxins. The most common are anti-coagulants such as bromadiolone, brodifacoum, diphacinone and chlorophacinone that result in internal and external bleeding, usually manifesting a few days after ingestion. Animals literally bleed to death. There is also cholecalciferol which elevates the calcium levels to the toxic threshold to cause death. And there is bromethalin that causes swelling of the nerve tissue to result in paralysis, convulsions and death. Strychnine is sometimes used and results in increased rigidity of the muscles; paralysis of the respiratory muscles causes death. Zinc phosphide is also used and causes weakness, vomiting and death. Topical insecticides that are inadvertently applied to the wrong species can result in twitching, seizures and death. This most commonly occurs with over-the-counter flea products- shampoos, dips or spot-on applications (such as those containing permethrins, organophosphates, carbamates) that are labeled for use in dogs only but are mistakenly applied to cats. Similarly, Raid ant and roach sprays or other sprays meant for environmental application can kill cats and is toxic to dogs when misused. Herbal remedies, despite being "natural", can be toxic. Sometimes, pets accidentally ingest herbal remedies; sometimes, they are applied to pets by well-meaning owners. But they can be toxic when remedies contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids which can be toxic to the liver or inorganic contaminants such as arsenic. Just a few of the herbal remedies that can be problematic...Aloe applied topically is rarely a problem but when ingested by grooming pets after dermal application, it can cause diarrhea. Camphor can cause neurological signs (tremors, seizures). Eucalyptus oil can cause a variety of signs such as difficulty breathing, vomiting and seizures. When given long term, garlic and onion, either raw, cooked or in the powder form can cause anemia in dogs and cats. Oil of wintergreen contains an element similar to aspirin and can cause vomiting and stomach ulceration in both dogs and cats. Pennyroyal oil has a long history of use as a flea repellent. A component of this oil is metabolized to an element that is toxic to the liver, and there has been at least one death that has been reported in a dog when pennyroyal oil was applied topically. Sassafras oil is used as an insecticide and especially in cats, can cause sedation, vomiting, and heart failure. Recommendations for treatment with the ingestion of any toxin usually include the induction of vomiting if oral ingestion has occurred within a short period of time, usually within 1-2 hours. Induction of vomiting can be efficiently done by your veterinarian by giving certain drugs that stimulate the vomiting center of the brain. Gastric lavage ("stomach pumping") is occasionally done. In cases when vomiting is recommended but when there is delay in getting the pet to a veterinarian for immediate treatment, it may be recommended that the owner give hydrogen peroxide orally; sometimes, but not always, this can stimulate vomiting. The dosage is fresh 3% hydrogen peroxide- 1 teaspoon per 5 pounds of body weight. It is ok to repeat one time if no vomiting occurs within 20 minutes. If no vomiting occurs, there is no benefit of continuing to give hydrogen peroxide. The total amount given should not exceed 3 tablespoons. Note that syrup of Ipecac is not recommended since it is usually not effective and can cause heart problems and protracted vomiting. However, not in all cases is the induction of vomiting recommended. If the animal is too sedated from the toxin, it may get vomit material into its lungs and suffocate and/or get aspiration pneumonia. When a caustic (i.e. bleach, some oils such as pine oil, turpentine and phenols used in such household disinfectants such as Lysol) or abrasive (ground glass, metallic materials) substance is ingested, damage to the esophagus can occur when the material is passed back up. In these cases, vomiting is contraindicated. If more than 1-2 hours has elapsed since ingestion, the drug has already been absorbed via the intestinal tract and causing vomiting may not prevent further uptake. The administration of activated charcoal may be recommended by your veterinarian to help "bind" the toxins already in the intestinal tract. An important part of the treatment includes supportive care such as the administration of intravenous fluids and medications to control seizures and heart arrhythmias. Unfortunately, specific antidotes for toxins are rare. In the case of a topically applied product (i.e. insecticide), immediate bathing is recommended, usually with a detergent such as Dawn liquid detergent as well as efforts to prevent grooming and oral ingestion, especially in the case of cats. In the case of ingestion of a foreign body such as string or plastic toy, surgery is usually necessary. Sometimes the string can make it through the intestinal tract to exit via the rectum. Resist the temptation to pull on the string hanging from the rectum since this will cut through the intestines higher up where it is anchored. Please contact your veterinarian, instead. Coins or other metallic foreign bodies can be readily identified on an x-ray and can be retrieved by surgery and sometimes, by endoscopy ( a fiber optic cable that is passed down the mouth and esophagus into the stomach and duodenum of an anesthetized animal). In addition to your veterinarian, another valuable source of information and help is the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center in Urbana, Illinois. Their web site is www.aspca.org. They have a 24 hours emergency hotline (888) 4-ANI-HELP. For a small fee, they will immediately put you in contact with a veterinary toxicologist who can advise you on what to do, what to watch for and what to expect. They will also be able to advise you of the need to consult with your veterinarian if hospitalization is recommended. In any case when a known or suspected toxin may have been ingested by your pet, contact your veterinarian or the Animal Poison Control Center immediately. DO NOT TAKE A WAIT AND SEE APPROACH. If you have any questions regarding food and household toxins, don't hesitate to contact your veterinarian. The above is general veterinary information. Do not begin any course of treatment without consulting your regular veterinarian. All animals should be examined at least once every 12 months.

Dog Care and Nutrition: How to Raise a Healthy Dog

Your dog depends on you for all his nutritional requirements. Proper nutrition is essential for a healthy pet to help resist disease and illness, to maintain a lean, healthy weight, and to give your furry friend a shiny coat.

Each dog is different, and your dog's lifestyle (active or sedentary? young or old? hunting dog? racing dog? lap dog? healthy? pregnant?) is the main factor in determining his individual nutritional requirements.

When to feed your dog is an important first question. Puppies need lots of calories every day because they are growing so quickly. It's best to feed puppies small meals several times a day at first. Most adult dogs only need to eat once a day to sustain their energy and nutrient levels. If you work all day and no one is home with your dog, it's probably best to feed him in the evening, so you'll be able to let him out after he eats. But a morning feeding schedule is fine if someone is home with your dog during the day. Whatever time of day you choose to feed your dog, there are six basic nutrients that he must eat every day to balance his particular needs: water, proteins, carbohydrates, fats, minerals, and vitamins.

Water is key. Your new best friend needs plenty of fresh water daily...it is one of the most important things you can provide your dog. While a dog can go without food for a while, he will quickly dehydrate without water. This is especially important during the summer months when your dog is outside in the heat. We can't stress enough how important it is to ALWAYS have a fresh bowl of water available for your dog. (A medium size dogs requires about two quarts of water each day!) If your dog is a normal, active, healthy dog, he only needs a small amount of protein daily. However, young and active dogs need more protein for growth, and older active dogs need more protein as well. The proteins you feed your dog need to come from an animal source.

Carbohydrates help provide your dog with energy, as well as help keep the intestines functioning properly. Most commercial dog foods use corn as their source of carbohydrates. As important as carbs are, however, they should make up no more than about 50% of Fido's diet.

Fats are an essential part of your dog's diet, but they need to be properly balanced with other nutrients. If you're feeding your dog the proper amount of a good, commercial dog food, he should be getting the right amount of fat in his diet.

Your dog doesn't really need a lot of minerals. As long as you feed him a complete, balanced diet, there is no need to supplement with minerals. Most commercial dog foods will provide him with all the minerals he needs.

Dogs require the same vitamins from their food as you do, except for Vitamin C (dogs are able to make their own Vitamin C). Vitamins that are water soluble (such as the B vitamins) need to be replenished every day. Fat-soluble vitamins (like A, E, K, and D) stay in your dog's system longer. It's important that your dog maintain a healthy diet to keep him from developing serious health problems.

For more specific information and recommendations on your particular dog’s nutritional needs, be sure to talk with his veterinarian.

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--Lisa Pallardy is the owner of http://www.BarkTalk.com an interactive site for dog lovers to find articles and information on dog training and care, post photos of their pets, and talk with other dog-lovers. She is also the mother of 6 children and lover of 3 dogs. In her spare time, she makes greeting cards from children's artwork at http://www.MyLittleRembrandt.com

For more articles like this one on dog care and dog training, or for links to resources where you can purchase dog supplies, visit http://www.BarkTalk.com.

Crisis Checklist: Saving Your Pet's Life When Disaster Strikes

Help could not come soon enough for the residents of New Orleans and the surrounding Gulf areas. But for devoted animal owners rescue came at a price…leave your pet behind. Having a plan in place before disaster strikes can save both you and your pet’s lives. Here’s what to do now.

General Helpful Hints

1 If you live in an apartment, consider putting an "animals inside" sign on your door. In case of fire, your pet’s chances of survival may increase if the firemen know.

2 Keep carrying cases, leads, etc. in an easily accessible location. If you must leave quickly, time spent looking for these items is time lost.

Know Your Neighbors

The help of a good neighbor can sometimes be your first line of defense.

1. Exchange your house or apartment key with a trusted neighbor. Exchanging keys with a neighbor offers the benefit of proximity. Should an unexpected crisis arise, your neighbor can reach your pets quickly. Friends or family may not know about the problem until it is too late.

2. Make a Plan. Discuss what to do in case of emergency. Do you have a cell phone? Make certain your neighbor has the number as well as any additional telephone numbers where you can be reached such as work or family. Write them on an index card in bold, large print, and laminate it.

3. Fido, Buffy, Max, Celia, Snorky… If you have more than one pet, make certain your neighbor has the following information:

a. The Number of Pets You Have. If they know how many pets they need to find, chances increase greatly all will be rescued.

b. What Type of Animals You Have. If Celia is a goldfish and your neighbor is looking for a dog, Celias’ chances of rescue drop. Make certain you are clear regarding the type of animal your neighbor should find.

c. Location of Pets In Your Home. This is important for caged animals such as birds, snakes, hamsters, etc. Do you keep your dog penned in the backyard? Let them know. The less time your neighbor spends searching for your pets, the more time they have to get them out quickly and safely.

d. Hi. My Name Is… If your neighbor can’t find your pet, they may respond if their names are called. Will they come when you whistle? Tell your neighbor. The more specific information they have, the better your pet’s chance of rescue.

On the Road Again

Before you leave for a vacation or an extended trip, talk with the person who will be caring for your pets. Make certain it is someone you trust such as a responsible family member, friend, or neighbor. If you use a pet sitting service, check their credentials before you leave. Ask for names of other clients who have used their services and call them to see if they were pleased. Better to know before you go rather than returning to an unpleasant surprise.

Discuss specifically what your sitter would do if a crisis arises and always leave contact numbers where you can be reached (hotel, cell phone, etc). Points to consider:

1. If a problem occurs, will your sitter take your pets until you return? If not, give them the name and telephone number of a friend, family member, kennel or doggy spa they can contact to take your pets.

2. If an evacuation occurs, will your sitter take your pets?

3. In case of evacuation, give your sitter the telephone number of a family member or friend outside the effected area who can act as a contact. If you and your sitter cannot reach each other, you can each call the contact who can help relay information.

4. If one must leave the area, prearrange with family or friends within driving distance to take your pets. If you have more than one pet, ask in advance to make certain they can house all of them. If not, find others who can.

Name, Rank and Serial Number

Make certain your pets have proper identification. Include your last name and telephone number as well as the pet’s name on the ID tag. If you have one, consider using a cell phone number in case you and your pet are separated and you can’t go home.

Your Little Black Book

Begin collecting important telephone numbers and information now so you have them if you need them. To gather this information, conduct an Internet search for your area or contact animal associations such as the ASPCA or The Humane Society. Your list should also include your vet and a 24 hour animal hospital.

1. Pet Friendly Shelters: Many shelters may not accept pets in need of a temporary safe haven, but some do. Find the ones in your areas just in case.

2. Dog Friendly Lodging: Should you be displaced, know where to go. If you can’t reach friends or family, the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of hotels and motels which accept pets can be a life saver.

3. Animal Rescue Centers. Even the best laid plans go astray. If this happens, call your local animal shelter or vet and ask if they can provide assistance. If you have more than one pet, confirm that they will be able to take them all.

4. Here are a few starting points for more information.

American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals American Veterinary Medical Foundation American Humane Association Petfinder.com

If You Must Evacuate

If the situation becomes so dire you must leave, consider the following. Generally, time is of the essence.

1. Leave as quickly as possible and take your pets with you! Don’t leave your pets behind thinking you can return and get them. Very often, you will not be permitted to return until the crisis is over.

2. If you are driving, load up the animals and hit the road. If you can’t take your pets where you are going, use your back up family member or friend plan first. Then your dog friendly lodging or rescue shelter options. If worse comes to worse, you may be able to find someone along the way who can help you.

3. If you cannot take your pet(s) to a safe place and you MUST evacuate, help improve your pet’s chances to stay alive. Make certain dogs are unchained or uncaged. Pets left alone will rely on their natural instincts to survive.

M. H. Molock is the owner of dogclothes-apparel.com, an online dog clothes and accessories store. She also writes extensively on animal and pet issues. For more pet information and tips, subscribe to her free newsletter at http://www.dogclothes-apparel.com.

Preventative Health Care Strategies for your Pet

In most homes in America, the family pet is just like another member of the family. While we may not invite them to join us at the table for dinner, we love them nonetheless. As with any other family member, the health and wellbeing of our pets is of the utmost importance. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your furry friends are a part of your family for many years to come.

Be sure to have your pets vaccinated annually. With all of the debate surrounding vaccine safety, many pet owners have opted out of vaccinating their pets. The main issue to be aware of is that animals are highly susceptible to contracting certain diseases, such as canine parvovirus and canine distemper. These diseases are easily prevented with standard vaccinations, and very expensive to treat should preventative measures be ignored. Standard therapy for these diseases can cost upwards of $1000.00, when factoring in antibiotics and hospitalization. The vaccine itself might cost a fraction of that.

Dental care is another consideration. Just like other members of your family, your pets need to have semi-regular dental check-ups. This is especially important if you have a dog that is being fed a regular diet of human food. Furthermore, dental disease in pets can lead to other serious illnesses, such as heart, kidney, and liver disease. Some studies have even suggested that 80% of all domestic pets over the age of 3 have some existing form of dental disease. It may sound silly to some, but brushing your pet's teeth is one of the most important things you can do to reduce the risk of health complications. Take a preventative approach to the dental care of your pet.

Obesity is another issue that pet owners need to be aware of. Most of the time, this can be managed with a healthy, well rounded diet. There are plenty of quality pet food brands on the market today, many of which are tailored to your pet's stage of development. While an overweight pet might seem cute and cuddly, obesity can lead to serious health problems for your pet. This can include joint problems, arthritis, heart problems, difficulty breathing, and diabetes. Ensure your pet is getting a reasonable amount of exercise each day.

Article Source: http://www.articledashboard.com

Christine Arbor owns two dogs, three cats, and a bird. She is a lifelong animal lover and a regular volunteer at her local Humane Society. When she is not tending to her animals, she writes for topsellingpetsupplies.com â€" a wonderful resource for information about buying pet supplies online, pet insurance, pet microchips and more.

Pet health online

The reasons many be anything but every one love have at least one pet at there house. Choosing a right and healthy pet can create a special and lasting relation for both of you.

A pet an addition member to a family not only brings the happiness and fun but lots of responsibility for its care and well-being regarding its health. Before adopting pet you need to consider many things but the most about pet health care this will help you to owing a pet much easier.

Pet gives you many benefits like improving your outdoor activities and many more, but at the same time they many harm your health. As we all know that every pet carries germs in there body which may effect you and your family through air, water or some other way.

We may not be aware of many other pet health decease like Spring Allergies, Intestinal Parasites, Ear infections, Skin Problems in Pet, Dry Skin, Fleas, Allergies, Bloat, External and Internal Parasites, Arthritis, Cataracts, Canine Hip Dysplasia, Fat Cats and Pudgy Pooches and many more.

Due all this unexpected illnesses and accidents many insurance company provides pet health insurance. Which helps you to take care of your pet from accidental injuries, emergencies and illnesses not only this but many other routine care. Get free quote or enroll your pet today.

Prevention is always better the cure so its good to consult any animal doctor before having any pet. Internet is an best mode where you can study deeply about pet health care and all other information for good and healthy pet at your house.

Visit one of the best site for pet health Pet Health Online

Article Source: http://www.articledashboard.com

Pet health provides assistance to find pets and healthy diet information for pets. Detailed information on flea control in dogs and cats, and dental health issues on horse.

How To Keep Your Cat Healthy - Your Guide to Cat Diseases and Conditions, and How to Cure Them

Even with the best care, cats can become ill. Sometimes this means a simple "kitty cold," at other times the disease might have a more lasting or even fatal result. The following are some of the more common causes of serious illness in cats.

An upper respiratory infection (URI) is the medical term for what many cat lovers call a "kitty cold." Indeed, the symptoms match those of a human cold, sneezing and discharge from the nose. While they seem similar, the human and cat version of this infection are different, and one species cannot be infected by the other. However, URI is highly contagious among cats. If you have a multi-cat household and notice URI symptoms, isolate the cat immediately.

The best treatment for URI is time and loving care. Use a warm, moist cloth to keep your cat's eyes and nose free of discharge. You might need to warm her food to enhance the smell to encourage your cat to eat.

URI symptoms, which include a decreased appetite, can last anywhere from a few days to several weeks. Watch your cat carefully; not eating or drinking can lead to dehydration. Also, if your cat becomes extremely lethargic, it may mean the URI has turned into something more serious.

The symptoms of URI may last a few days to several weeks. Cats with URI may also be lethargic and have a decreased appetite. Monitor the cat carefully; a growing lack of appetite and fever can lead to dehydration. Not eating can lead to liver problems. Lethargy can mean a minor URI has become a more serious problem, such as pneumonia. If you notice this occurring, or if the discharge becomes very thick and yellowish-green, contact your veterinarian. Severe URIs may need to be treated with antibiotics.

Chlamydia is a type of bacteria that has many variations. Usually, each variant is species specific; feline Chlamydia is not transmitted to humans. In cats, the bacteria usually infects the eye, causing conjunctivitis. Chlamydia can be treated with antibiotics.

Symptoms of Feline Chlamydia

* Anorexia (loss of appetite; may occur as the disease progresses)

* Coughing

* Difficulty breathing

* Fever (may occur as the disease progresses)

* Pneumonia (in young kittens 2 to 4 weeks old, which could be fatal)

* Runny nose (rhinitis)

* Sneezing

* Watery eyes due to conjunctivitis (either one or both eyes)

Panleukopenia is a condition in which a cat's white blood cell count drops dramatically. Since white blood cells are vital to the cat's defense against disease, this condition leaves cats vulnerable to deadly infections. The virus is transmitted via body secretions. Feces are particularly common transmitters. It can be carried in water or on shoes.

Panleukopenia is often referred to as a number of different terms, such as

* Panleukopenia (often shortened to "Panleuk" in verbal discussion)

* FPV (Feline Panleukopenia Virus OR Feline Parvo Virus)

* FP (Feline Panleukopenia)

* Feline Distemper

* Feline Infectious Enteritis

* Feline Infectious Gastroenteritis

* Feline Agranulocytosis

* Cat Plague

* Cat fever

* Show fever

* Psuedomembranous Enteritis

* Maladie du jeune chat

* Feline Typhus

* Feline Tyfoid

* Colibacillosis

* Agranulocytosis

Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) causes a variety of diseases, one of which is leukemia, or cancer of the white blood cells. Infected cats often appear healthy in the early stages of the disease. The illness may take months or years to cause death. For a long time, FeLV was the most fatal disease among cats. Today, although vaccinations are available to protect cats from this disease, it continues to be a leading cause of death, as there is no treatment.

FeLV is usually transmitted through cat fighting with each other. Because large quantities of the FeLV are shed in puncture wounds and cat saliva associated with fighting result in the injection of PeLV into other cats. Other less frequent routes of viral spread include sharing food and water bowls, cats grooming each other, and transmission from mother to kittens before birth.

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