The month of May is National Chip Your Pet Month, and this is the time when veterinarians, shelter operators, and pet professionals encourage pet owners to consider the benefits of microchipping their pets. Here are some of the things to consider:
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Did you know that cats are the most popular pet in the United States? Or that cats can make over 100 distinctive sounds compared to dogs, who make around 10? Or that when a cat is rubbing against your leg, he’s marking his territory?
There’s more to a kitty than simply beauty and agility. Here are just a few of their fascinating physiological facts:
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Not only does adopting a shelter pet help save the life of an animal in need, but rescuing a pet can offer surprising human health benefits!
Decrease Stress. In a 2002 study researchers discovered people had less stress response when with a pet than even a spouse, family member, or close friend. In fact, pet-friendly rehabilitation centers are becoming more common than ever before.
Lower Blood Pressure. Patients already diagnosed as hypertensive may reap even more benefits from daily life with a pet, and even the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) admits, “if you have a dog around, your blood pressure is lower.” Researchers suspect the blood pressure benefits are related to stress reduction.
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The month of April is National Pet First Aid Awareness Month and a good time to refresh your knowledge of common emergencies your pets may experience. It’s also a good time to check your first aid kit for any needed pet-related supplies. There are also many helpful online resources available regarding pet first-aid.
Be aware of these common issues:
Dehydration. The skin between the shoulder blades of your dog or cat should spring right back if your animal is properly hydrated. If the skin is slow to return to a normal position, this is a warning sign of dehydration. Lack of proper water intake, high environmental temperatures, and some medical conditions can cause dehydration. Veterinary care can restore normal electrolyte balance and identify underlying health issues if your pet becomes dehydrated. At home, fresh, cool water should be provided for your pet at all times.
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March 23rd is National Puppy Day, when we celebrate the joys puppies bring into our lives! Donating to a local shelter, buying your puppy a new toy, or adopting a shelter pet are some ways to participate. Here are some tips if you decide to make an adorable puppy part of your family:
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Today’s domesticated guinea pig is a descendant of the wild guinea pigs of South America. Guinea pigs are long- or short-haired, tailless rodents that many children enjoy as their first pets. Guinea pigs can be very affectionate, live harmoniously in groups, and when they are happy, are known to jump straight up in the air! Here are a few important guidelines should you decide to make one of these social animals a part of your family:
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During the warm months of spring and summer, there is a large overpopulation of puppies and kittens in animal shelters. Spaying or neutering pets helps to keep these numbers manageable and has some health benefits as well. Here are some of the reasons why you should consider this option for your pet.
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February is Responsible Pet Owner’s Month. While you try your best to provide your pets with the utmost in terms of love, care, and safety, this is a good time to stop and consider if there are any areas you can improve on regarding the quality of life of your pets. Your dogs, cats, guinea pigs, rabbits, birds, and other companion animals are part of your families, so naturally you want to provide what’s best for them and be responsible as pet parents.
Pet-proof your home: Dogs and cats have a penchant for getting into places they’re not supposed to, so pet-proofing your home is a must for their safety. Making sure they don’t have access to dangerous chemicals, electrical cords, lit candles, spaces where they can become trapped, etc. takes some time and effort but is worthwhile. Because dogs and cats like to keep their parents on their toes and some pets continually discover new ways to get into trouble, you may have to modify your pet-proofing strategies throughout your pets’ lives.
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The Holiday Season is upon us and as always we want to include our pets in the festivities. Dogs deserve presents too so read on for a few gift-giving ideas for Fido.
This Holiday Bear by West Paw is not only festive and cute, it also has a squeaky toy inside! It’s perfect for the dog who loves to snuggle. This bear comes in two sizes and is available while supplies last.
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It’s that time of year again when our thoughts turn to Christmas and we desire to find the perfect gift for those we love, and that includes our feline companions. Here are just a few of the newest, most interesting gifts available this holiday season and where to find them.
What could be better than a cat hideaway where the entire interior is a scratching post? Take a look at the Cat Cabin Pet Scratch Center by Wondershop. Made of cardboard with easy assembly, measuring 15in by 15in by 15in. You can find it for your kitty for about $13.
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