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Pet Care

November is Pet Diabetes Month

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Has your pet been lethargic, drinking large amounts of water, and urinating frequently? These could be signs that your pet may have diabetes.

If you didn’t know that your pet could develop diabetes, don’t beat yourself up. Most people are not aware that this disease could afflict their pets. 

According to Merrick, diabetes affects anywhere between 1 in 100 to 1 in 500 dogs and cats. The number of dogs diagnosed with the condition has tripled during the past 30 years. Risk factors that may contribute to the development of diabetes include age (middle-aged to older dogs and cats are more susceptible), genetics, breed and obesity.

So, what should you look for? What are the signs?

There are a number of resources available for you if you think your pet may be exhibiting signs of diabetes. You can download a handy checklist (http://www.petdiabetesmonth.com/PDF/PM11_0066.pdf); you can download a pet diabetes handbook http://www.petdiabetesmonth.com/PDF/PM09_0114B.pdf or a pet sitter checklist http://www.petdiabetesmonth.com/PDF/PM11_0065.pdf 

If you think you might have a diabetic pet on your hands, take this quick quiz (http://www.petdiabetesmonth.com/survey-page.asp) and make an appointment with your veterinarian right away. 

Diabetes can be treated and Floofins & Co. has staff trained that can administer insulin shots, particularly for cats. Careful observation of your pet’s behavior is the first step in being able to readily identify warning signs. And yearly exams, semiannual for senior pets, can help keep your pet healthy and happy for many years by using preventive measures to avoid more severe health outcomes.

November Is Adopt a Senior Pet Month

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November is a month that I can really get behind. Not only does my favorite food holiday, Thanksgiving, occur in November, but it is also  Adopt A Senior Pet Month. 

I often tell people that one of my favorite types of dogs are old ones. The  golden years are full of naps on the rug in the sun, ambles about the neighborhood, and treats and tummy rubs. Yet, the cuddly cuteness of new kittens or puppies often overtakes us. How could it not?

But as you consider adding to your Floofins Family, don’t forget that some of the last animals to be adopted from shelters are the seniors. Sure, the little ones are squirmy and wiggly and cute, but the soul in the eyes of a dog that has reached an age of wisdom comes with some great benefits.

One of the reasons I adopted an adult dog was because I despise housebreaking training. While I know it doesn’t take forever and most pick up on it quickly enough, I hate cleaning the carpet, the tile, the rugs. And I just wanted a dog that would already know the “rules of the road” when it came to urination. Senior pets already have that down pat, in most instances.

Further, you know what you are getting. Personality is on full display and often you have a complete list of the features of the model you are taking home. A win-win for the pet and for the family. 

And I hear you. The old ones are more likely to have health issues. Well, let me point you in the direction of a charity that I adore: the Mr. Mo Project. https://www.mrmoproject.com

This couple, Chris and Mariesa Hughes, made it their mission to house senior pets and they cover the medical expenses for the rest of the dog’s life. It makes a great option for donations if you are so inclined this holiday season.

So, keep those senior pets in mind when you start looking for your next floofin.

October Is Adopt A Shelter Dog Month

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The month of October is officially Adopt A Shelter Dog month. You might also hear it referred to as Adopt A Dog Month.
 
There are numerous ways to celebrate the month, but let’s take some ideas from the Humane Society of Charlotte. They have 5 great ways to celebrate, but I’m sure that we can come up with even more!
  • Mental health. Many of us were finding our limits tested during the lockdowns of the pandemic. If you didn’t bring a pandemic puppy into your home, you could open up your home to a pet and reap the benefits of stress reduction and see both your pet and your blood pressure decrease just by petting them! It’s true.
  • Exercise. Walking a dog can get you outside more often. It also gets you moving and that is not only good for your weight, but your emotional health as well. And a dog that gets plenty of walk and sniff time is a healthy family member.
  • Dog people. It is a thing! You’ll meet people on your walks with their pets and could very well strike up a new friendship. Another benefit of adoption.
  • Unconditional love. No question, the adage that a dog is the only thing that loves you more than itself is true. And that kind of love will change your world. Doubt it? Try it out and see.
  • Saving lives. Without a doubt, bringing a pet into your home not only saves that pet’s life, but opens up slots for other dogs that might not survive in some shelters. While many have moved to a no-kill philosophy, that isn’t the case for all facilities.
With all the benefits of having a canine companion, we encourage you to consider your local rescue or shelter when picking out a new pet. The experience will be life-altering for all involved. What other ways can you think of that celebrates pet adoption?

World Spay Day is February 28

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cats

The last day of February is World Spay Day. As the world moves away from winter and outdoors into spring, consider the benefits of making sure your pet is spayed or neutered. 

Spaying your pet is just one way to help keep homeless pet populations down. Without enough homes for pets they often enter into the shelter system where millions are euthanizes each year.

While there are medical and behavioral benefits to neutering pets, let’s consider a few myths that still exist. According to the ASPCA, two common myths that simply aren’t accurate are:

  • Spaying or neutering will not cause your pet to become overweight.
  • Neutering is not a quick fix for all behavior problems. 

What is true is that you can oftentimes enjoy medical benefits from spaying your pet. For example, your female pet will be less likely to experience breast tumors or uterine infections resulting in a healthier, longer life. Your male pets will be less likely to experience testicular cancer or prostate problems. 

There are behavior benefits as well. Your male dogs are less likely to roam as far away from home when mating season rolls around. This will limit attempts to escape to find a lady friend and potentially incur injury from traffic or other hazards. Your female cat won’t go into heat which can sometimes include a great deal of yowling and urination, sometimes all over your house. 

Contact your veterinarian or seek out a low-cost clinic to find out how to spay or neuter your pet. Do what is best for your pet’s health and research what makes the most sense for your pet. 

Could You Spot Diabetes In Your Pet?

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Did you know that your pet could develop diabetes? If not, don’t beat yourself up. Most people are not aware that this disease could afflict their pets. 

According to Merrick Animal Health:

“Diabetes affects anywhere between 1 in 100 to 1 in 500 dogs and cats. The number of dogs diagnosed with the condition has tripled during the past 30 years. Risk factors that may contribute to the development of diabetes include age (middle-aged to older dogs and cats are more susceptible), genetics, breed and obesity.”

So, what should you look for? What are the signs?

  • Lethargy
  • Increased thirst
  • Frequent urination

There are a number of resources available for you if you think your pet may be exhibiting signs of diabetes. You can download a handy checklist; you can download a pet diabetes handbook; or a pet sitter checklist. 

If you think you might have a diabetic pet on your hands, take this quick quiz and make an appointment with your veterinarian right away.