News and Features

 Frances Goodman Obedience Training

NOVEMBER 2007

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Heroic cat and dog awards

made by ASPCA for 2007

A cat who saved her owners from carbon monoxide poisoning and a dog who performed the Heimlich maneuver have been named the 2007 dog and cat of the year by the American Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

Each year the ASPCA honors heroic animals for their deeds and outstanding individuals for their work on behalf of animal welfare. The awards are presented on Nov. 1 at a luncheon in New York City.

“The Humane Awards Luncheon is our way of recognizing the important role animals play in our lives…and the people who make animal welfare a central part of their lives,” said ASPCA President Ed Sayres.

Following a nationwide call for nominations, an ASPCA-appointed committee named winners in seven categories. Here are the cat and dog winners, plus the winner of a special animal advocate award:

Cat of the Year

On the night of March 24, 2007, Winnie, a 14-year-old domestic shorthair cat, dozed by an open window in her family’s house in New Castle, Ind. While Winnie and her family slept, poisonous carbon monoxide fumes from a gasoline-powered water pump filled the family’s basement.

Sensing all was not right, Winnie moved from her cozy window seat to the bed of Cathy and Michael Keesling. She nudged Cathy’s ear and meowed wildly to wake her. Cathy eventually sat up, realizing she was nauseous, dizzy, and disoriented. Unable to wake her husband, she quickly dialed 9-1-1.

Paramedics arrived in a flash and discovered the Keeslings’ 14-year-old son, Michael, unconscious on the floor of his bedroom. All three family members were removed from the home with oxygen masks and treated for carbon monoxide poisoning. They all soon recovered, thanks to Winnie's heroic efforts.

Cathy Keesling originally found Winnie, only days old, motherless and abandoned at a neighboring farm. In Winnie’s first days, Cathy and Eric nursed her with milk from an eyedropper. They saved her life, and years later, she saved theirs.

Dog of the Year:

One seemingly ordinary afternoon in suburban Maryland, a jewelry designer named Debbie Parkhurst was enjoying an apple snack in the company of her beloved, two-year-old Golden Retriever, Toby. Debbie uneventfully took one bite after another, but soon flinched when she realized a piece of apple was lodged in her throat.

She choked and gasped, beating her chest in a vain effort to dislodge the fruit. Toby, alarmed by Debbie’s distress, pushed her to the ground and jumped up and down on her chest until the offending apple came up. Debbie is convinced she owes her life to Toby, whom she rescued from a grim fate in a dumpster in 2005.

These days, Toby enjoys life with Debbie and her husband, Kevin, and he is inseparable from his canine sidekick, a Bassett Hound named Fred.

Henry Bergh Award:

In 1991, during a game between the Oakland Athletics and the New York Yankees, an orphaned cat darted on the field during play. The A’s then-manager, Tony La Russa, hurried onto the diamond to rescue the kitten from harm’s way. Soon afterward, he and his wife, Elaine, co-founded Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF), which is committed to the well-being of companion animals.

Through its many outreach programs in Northern California, ARF strives to educate the public about the human-animal bond, pet overpopulation and homelessness.

Born in Tampa, FL, Tony La Russa received his JD from Florida State University in 1978 and is currently a member of the Florida State Bar. Prior to taking the helm of the St. Louis Cardinals in 1996, he spent 17 years managing the Oakland A’s and the Chicago White Sox.

During the off season, La Russa lives in Alamo, CA, with his wife, their two daughters, and many rescued animals. He received the ASPCA Henry Bergh award for his commitment to animals.

Feral Cats:

The Trap, Neuter, Return Program

They live in sheds, under buildings, and behind restaurant dumpsters.

They are feral cats, meaning they or their ancestors were once domesticated, but have reverted to a wild state from having to survive on their own.

They and their offspring can have litters as frequently as every two months.

Despite hostility from many, they do have friends and advocates.

The seventh annual National Feral Cat Day (NFCD) will be observed on Tuesday, October 16, sponsored by Alley Cat Allies, a national animal welfare organization.

The purpose is to spotlight the problem of feral cat overpopulation, and to promote the Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) program as a non-lethal, humane, and cost-effective way to curb the problem and reduce the suffering.

A hoped for by-product would be to change the resentment that is often directed toward feral cats.

 Difference between feral and stray:

A feral cat is one that either has lived its entire life with little or no human contact, or was once domesticated, but has reverted to a wild state from having to survive on its own. Feral cats avoid human contact and cannot be touched by strangers.

Strays on the other hand, are lost or abandoned pets that usually can be re-socialized and adopted.

Adult feral cats generally cannot be tamed and are not suited to living indoors. They are most content living outside. Feral kittens, however, can often be tamed and adopted.

Well-meaning cat-lovers contribute to the overpopulation, problem, and ultimately to the suffering, by feeding stray or feral cats without spaying and neutering them.

Where TNR is practiced, cats already living outdoors are humanely trapped, evaluated, vaccinated, sterilized, and ear-tipped for identification by veterinarians. Kittens and tame cats are adopted into good homes. Healthy adult cats too wild to be adopted are returned to their familiar habitats under the supervision and care of dedicated volunteers.

Agencies supporting TNR include the Humane Society of the United States, the American Society of Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and many others.

What about the birds?

Advocates of TNR frequently find their viewpoint challenged by bird-lovers, who blame cats for threatening the bird population. The advocates’ response is that feral cats should be allowed to be part of the natural wildlife balance, and that pesticides and decreasing habitat due to human encroachment are the causes of declining bird population.

A further argument is that when feral cats are euthanized, new cats will move into the territory, and breeding will continue. If the cats are neutered and returned to the territory, however, the population will stabilize without the addition of offspring.

(Note for bird-lovers: Whether cats are present or not, birdbaths and feeders should be located away from low shrubbery or areas where any predator might take cover.)

For more information on TNR programs and concepts, visit www.alleycatallies.org.

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RESPONSIBLE DOG OWNER'S PLEDGE

September is the month in which many dog clubs and animal agencies observe the annual American Kennel Club Responsible Dog Owner Day.

As part of it, the AKC offers an online pledge for responsible dog owners to sign regarding the care they will provide for their pets. Here are a few of the promises they ask owners to make:

▪ I will never overlook my responsibilities for this living being and recognize that my dog's welfare is totally dependent on me.

▪ I will always provide fresh water and quality food for my dog.

▪ I will socialize my dog via exposure to new people, places and other dogs.

▪ I will take pride in my dog's appearance with regular grooming.

▪ I will ensure that the proper amount of exercise and mental stimulation appropriate for my dog's age, breed and energy level is provided.

To participate or merely to view the complete pledge, visit www.AKC.org and go to the pet promise link.

Can you pass

the cat and dog owners...

ETIQUETTE TEST?

From time to time it’s a good idea to take a self-test on pet-owner etiquette.

One of the biggest complaints non-dog owners have against dog owners is not pooper-scooping after their pet when it messes on public property or someone else’s yard.

A recent survey by the American Kennel Club revealed this as the number one complaint, followed by not controlling the dog or “letting it jump on you.”

With so many pets and people living close together in urban settings, a whole new set of manners emerged for good neighborly relations, and good public relations for pets.

Here is a quiz to check your score in the area of pet-owner etiquette.

Dog owners get 10 points for each yes or affirmative answer. Cat owners get 20 points for each yes or affirmative answer.

 Dog owners

1. I observe leash laws and do not allow my dog to run loose.

2. I carry a scoop bag and ALWAYS scoop if my dog potties on someone else’s yard or on public property.

3. My dog is spayed or neutered, so will not add to the pet overpopulation crisis.

4. When we meet other dogs or people during leash walks, we do not approach without permission.

5. I do not allow my dog’s barking to disturb my neighbors.

6. My dog is not allowed to jump on guests. She is well-trained or stays in another part of the house when we have company.

7. My dog is not allowed to beg guests for food or treats.

8. My dog has been to obedience class and is well-behaved in public.

9. I do not allow my dog to fence-fight with the neighbor’s dog. If necessary I use secondary fencing to prevent this.

10. At the vet’s office, I keep my dog close to me and/or in a sit-stay so as not to disturb other pets.

Cat Owners

1. My cat is not allowed to potty in the neighbors’ flowerbeds;

2. Or stalk birds at the neighbor’s bird feeder or birdbath;

3. Or leave paw prints on the neighbors’ cars.

4. My cat is spayed or neutered so there is no night-fighting.

5. Being spayed or neutered, my cat will not contribute to the pet over-population crisis.

Congratulations to all who scored 100!

Summer

vacation:

What about

the pets?

  As vacation time approaches, the question will arise in many households: “What will we do about the pets?”

We recommend against the risky arrangement of having a neighbor come over to feed and water, unless they are familiar with the pet, extremely reliable, and used to caring for animals.

Children especially should not be expected to care for pets in a family’s absence, as they may not recognize signs of illness or know what to do in an emergency.

For safety and security, a trusted kennel or professional pet sitter (with excellent references) is a better lways my recommendation if the pet will be staying behind.

The right kennel

Here’s some good advice on what to look for when choosing a kennel:

-- Visit several facilities and inspect both the indoor and outdoor runs. All responsible kennel operators should be happy to show you each area in which the pets are kept.

-- Make sure the entire kennel is clean and orderly. How do the pets staying there look and act? Certainly they will be missing their owners, and dogs will be barking at visitors, but trust your senses on how well cared for they seem to be.

-- There should be adequate ventilation. A well-run kennel should not reek of strong pet smells.

-- Make sure the temperature is comfortable. Indoor/outdoor runs with temperature control on the inside sections are desirable.

-- The outdoor runs should be close to spotless and made of gravel or concrete. They should have shade available.

-- Ask how frequently the areas are cleaned.

-- The cattery should be separate and shielded from dog facilities.

-- The entire kennel, especially the outdoor runs, should be very secure. Many dogs attempt to break out, so talk to the kennel owners about this if you're worried. Also, my preference for kennels will always be those with personnel living on or near the premises so that night-time security is boosted.

Preparing to board

Make reservations early! Have receipts for current vaccinations with you when you bring Fluffy or Fido to the kennel. (All responsible kennel operators require proof of certain shots.)

Also bring along your pet’s bed or favorite safe toys, and perhaps a tee-shirt with your scent on it, to leave with him.

When you leave, be positive. Do not apologize to your dog or be emotional. He will sense your discomfort and become upset himself.

Pet-sitter tips

Good references are critical when choosing a pet-sitter. And while you’re gone, communicate by phone at least every other day to be sure all is well.

Pet-sitters are human, and in case they should have an emergency of their own while caring for your pet, have a back-up caregiver in place.

Whether you choose a kennel or pet-sitter, always leave written instructions on medical care, veterinarian contacts, and how to reach you incase of emergency.

Email pet-related news or questions to Frances Goodman at crittercorner@highdesert.com.

Pet turtle alert

issued by FDA

 Due to a recent increase in the sale of pet turtles, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is reminding parents and others who care for children that Salmonella infection can be caused by contact with turtles in petting zoos, parks, child care facilities, and other locations.

It is important to wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling or touching turtles and their housing, the agency advises.

According to the FDA, Salmonella are naturally occurring bacteria in turtles, and those with Salmonella usually do not appear sick in any way. In addition, turtles do not shed the bacteria all the time. Therefore, one negative test for Salmonella doesn’t mean that the turtle is not infected. It could mean that the turtle was not shedding Salmonella on the day it was tested.

Although anyone can acquire a salmonellosis infection, the risk is highest in infants, young children, the elderly, and others with lowered natural resistance to disease. Therefore, turtles are not suitable pets in households with young children or immune compromised persons.

In the early 1970s, it was determined that pet turtles, particularly red-eared sliders, were responsible for an estimated 280,000 cases of salmonellosis each year in the United States. Later the FDA banned the sale of turtles with a shell less than four inches long as a public health measure, and their sale remains illegal today. According to the FDA, humans contract an estimated 74,000 cases of turtle-associated salmonellosis in the United States per year.

For more information on FDA's regulation of turtles, visit http://www.fda.gov/cvm/turtleregs.htm.

HSUS petitions Florida for better vet care

at pet stores

The Humane Society of the United States has called on the Florida Department of Agriculture to issue guidelines for veterinarians inspecting dogs for sale in the state.

 The HSUS and Florida residents have petitioned the agency to formalize the inspection and certification process to ensure veterinarians do not rubber-stamp sick dogs as fit.

"Veterinarians are signing off on health forms without any verification that legally required vaccines are actually being given to puppies," said Stephanie Shain, director of companion animal outreach for The HSUS.  "It is time for the state to step in and set clear rules for pre-sale inspection so that families will not continue to take home sick and contagious puppies."

Florida's Puppy Lemon Law requires that any puppy sold in Florida must be inspected and certified as healthy by a veterinarian before sale. Some veterinarians involved in examinations have been accused of accepting the shot records provided by breeders without verifying the information. Certificates have then been issued claiming the puppy has had proper vaccines and is free from parasites.

According to the HSUS, pre-sale veterinary examination is the only line of defense against diseases and parasites. Because of the lack of rules, many very unhealthy puppies are improperly passed through inspection. This process allows puppy mills and retailers to profit from the sale of sick puppies.

The petitioners are being represented by Marcy LaHart, a public interest attorney in West Palm Beach, Fla.

Facts acording to HSUS:

• Approximately one third of the nation's 11,000 pet stores continue to sell puppies.
• Documented puppy mill conditions include over-breeding, inbreeding, minimal veterinary care, poor food and shelter, crowded cages and lack of adequate socialization.
• In Florida, as in every state, most dogs offered for sale through pet stores come from puppy mills.
• Florida has never formally adopted rules regarding how the pre-purchase exams should be conducted.

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More than just the breath factor, it's....

A matter of dental hygiene

 H ave you looked in your pet’s mouth recently?

The American Veterinary Medical Association is encouraging pet owners to practice dental hygiene for Fido and Fluffy for more reasons than just doggy or kitty breath.

According to the AVMA, an unhealthy mouth can shorten their life and contribute to serious health problems, especially when they become seniors.

More than 80 percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats show signs of oral disease by the time they're three years old, according to Dr. Brook Niemiec, a board-certified specialist in veterinary dentistry. "Make sure every veterinary checkup includes a thorough inspection of your pet's teeth and gums, and a discussion on how to keep them healthy and clean between visits,” he advises.

The AVMA offers the following advice on how to keep your pet's teeth healthy along with the advice to beware of biting when that is a possible issue:

-- Look for signs of tooth decay and oral disease by inspecting your pet's teeth regularly. Bad breath, discoloration and tartar are all indications of problems that could lead to serious health risks with the potential for not only damaging teeth and gums but internal organs.

-- Regular visits to your veterinarian should include a complete checkup of your pet's teeth. Your veterinarian should clean plaque and tartar off your pet's teeth if necessary. When tartar—created by the mixture of food debris, saliva and bacteria in the mouth—is allowed to build up it can accumulate between teeth and gums causing tooth loss, and result in an infection that could enter the bloodstream and spread to the heart or other internal organs.

-- Brush your pet's teeth daily or at least weekly. While most dogs or cats will not immediately accept a dental hygiene regimen, it can be successfully introduced with patience, particularly if you start when the pet is young.

-- To acclimate your pet to dental health, start slowly using plenty of praise and treats. Begin at a time when your pet is relaxed and massage the outside of their mouth with your finger. Then give them a taste of pet toothpaste—poultry-flavored is the most popular—and then slowly introduce a toothbrush to their teeth. Begin brushing in short intervals, working up to about 30 seconds a side.

-- Feed your dog or cat crunchy food, or at least a mix of hard and soft foods. The abrasive texture of kibble can help keep teeth clean, while soft food can cling to your pet's teeth and lead to decay. Also consider crunchy treats, which also help clean teeth.

-- Chew toys for dogs and rope toys that cats can chew are not only immensely entertaining for your pet, but also (help) keep teeth clean and breath smelling fresh.

For more information, visit www.petdental.com.

MyPetNews note: For toothbrushing, we recommend a soft brush. However, some people prefer to use the pet toothpaste with a rubber finger-brush or a piece of gauze over the index finger, instead. Whichever you choose, be sure you can use it safely.

Previous Articles:

AKC reminds dog lovers:

Don’t get star-struck

 By Frances Goodman

Due to the popularity of the films "The Shaggy Dog," and "8 Below," the American Kennel Club has issued a news release reminding moviegoers about the importance of making careful, educated decisions before adding a dog to their home.

Dogs that become media stars typically spark a buying spree for others of their kind – even though the story line may not portray the true characteristics of the breed, or the real-life lifestyle it needs.

This can result in unhappy dog-human matches.

In addition, when stardom comes to a canine, disreputable breeders seeking to profit from its popularity will overbreed, without considering temperament or health issues, in order to meet the demands and make the dollars. As a result “bad lines” are developed and the breed suffers.

"The Shaggy Dog," and "8 Below"

 In "The Shaggy Dog," Tim Allen transforms into the family dog, a spunky Bearded Collie. The film "8 Below" highlights the intense drive and determination of Siberian Huskies when a team of sled dogs is stranded in the Antarctic wilderness.

The AKC has joined the Siberian Husky Club of America, Inc., and the Bearded Collie Club of America, Inc., in reiterating the importance of careful breed  research and buying only  from reputable breeders.

"Seeing and enjoying a dog on the big screen is one thing, but people need to realize that owning that breed may be a completely different experience," advises Lisa Peterson of the AKC.

”Those who want to add a dog to their family need to understand the commitment involved in owning a dog, select a breed that fits their lifestyle, and learn as much as possible about the different breeds before contacting a reputable breeder," she said .

For more information and breeder referrals for all the 153 AKC recognized breeds, visit the AKC website at www.akc.org.

PREVIOUS ARTICLES

Want less stress when

grooming the pet?

Here are helpful tips

By Frances Goodman

 Bath and grooming time at home can be stressful for pets and their people. Ask anyone who has ever ended up as wet as the pet!

Here are some tips for helping everyone stay calmer when it’s bath and grooming time:

REHEARSE IT:

  Starting right away, accustom your dog to having  paws, mouth and ears examined and handled at times other than when he/she is being groomed.   Intersperse the touching and examining practice with several small treats, so that it becomes a positive activity in his mind.

MORE TREATS

Have treats handy and use them during the actual grooming, as well. For pets that are not treat-responsive, intersperse with frequent breaks for petting and sweet-talk.

STAY CALM

 Stay calm and talk naturally to him/her while you are doing the washing and grooming. Don't be stressed yourself, or the pet will pick up on your emotions.

PROVIDE SECURE  FOOTING 

Be sure he/she is standing on a secure and stable surface for the bath. If you use the bathtub, consider getting a rubber tub mat to provide secure footing. Or browse the pet catalogs such as www.drsfostersmith.com for special grooming tubs designed to help dogs feel secure. Be sure the bath water is comfortably warm, not cold.

 AVOID COLD-WATER SHOCK

     For outside bathing, there are sink faucet adapters available at stores like Lowe’s, which allow you to hook the garden hose to an inside sink faucet, string it out a door or window, and regulate the water temperature. This avoids cold-water shock that otherwise can occur from bathing under the hose.

CAREFUL WITH NAILS

When clipping the nails, take care not to cut into the quick, which can be seen as the pink part on light-colored toenails. Be sure clippers are sharp enough to work efficiently. Hold the nail itself firmly with both fingers of one hand while you clip, so the clipper does not twist or bend the nail.

     NOISE ABATEMENT

If at all possible, avoid using a hair dryer. The noise and general presence of the dryer can be frightening. Towel-drying, and being kept in a warm area until the fur can be brushed out, are much preferable from the pet’s point of view.

  BRUSHING THE TEETH

 Introduce pets to the tooth-brushing routine, by letting them lick a little good-flavored pet toothpaste off the brush for the first few days. Be sure to use the enzyme-based kind from the pet store that is safe for them to swallow. Then graduate to brushing just one or two teeth each time, until they are comfortable with the concept. Progress to more teeth each session. Before long they should welcome the procedure, because of the good taste of the poultry- or beef-flavored toothpaste.

Following these guidelines can make the bathing and grooming  easier for all!

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ASPCA lists ten most common poisonous plants  

According to the Animal Poison Control Center of the ASPCA here are the ten most common poisonous plants.

Inside the house, puppies and cats are especially at risk for chewing on bouquets or potted plant leaves. Outdoors, all pets are at risk, but especially puppies.

Lilies

Members of the Lily family are highly toxic to cats. While the poisonous component has not yet been identified, it is clear that with even ingestions of very small amounts of the plant, severe kidney damage and death could result.

Sago Palm

All parts are poisonous, but the seeds or “nuts” contain the largest amount of toxin. The ingestion of just one or two seeds can result in very serious effects, which include vomiting, diarrhea, depression, seizures and liver failure.

Marijuana

Ingestion of marijuana by companion animals can result in depression of the central nervous system and incoordination, as well as vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, increased heart rate, and even seizures and coma.

Tulip/Narcissus bulbs

The bulb portions of Tulipa/Narcissus contain toxins that can cause intense gastrointestinal irritation, drooling, loss of appetite, depression of the central nervous system, convulsions and cardiac abnormalities.

Azalea/Rhododendron

Members of the Rhododenron family  contain substances known as grayantoxins, which can produce vomiting, drooling, diarrhea, weakness and depression of the central nervous system in animals. Severe azalea poisoning could ultimately lead to coma and death from cardiovascular collapse.

Oleander

All parts of oleander are considered to be toxic, as they contain cardiac glycosides that have the potential to cause serious effects—including gastrointestinal tract irritation, abnormal heart function, hypothermia and even death.

Castor Bean

The poisonous principle in Ricinus communis is ricin, a highly toxic protein that can produce severe abdominal pain, drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, excessive thirst, weakness and loss of appetite. Severe cases of poisoning can result in dehydration, muscle twitching, tremors, seizures, coma and death.

Cyclamen

Cylamen species contain cyclamine, but the highest concentration of this toxic component is typically located in the root portion of the plant. If consumed, Cylamen can produce significant gastrointestinal irritation, including intense vomiting. Fatalities have also been reported in some cases.

Kalanchoe

This plant contains components that can produce gastrointestinal irritation, as well as those that are toxic to the heart, and can seriously affect cardiac rhythm and rate.

Yew

Ccontains a toxic component known as taxine, which causes central nervous system effects such as trembling, incoordination, and difficulty breathing. It can also cause significant gastrointestinal irritation and cardiac failure, which can result in death.

The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center is available for consultation on any poison-related emergency, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year at: (888) 426-4435. A $55 consultation fee may be applied to your credit card.

NOVEMBER 2005 ARTICLE:

Newly emerged canine virus

resembles kennel cough at start

      Scientists  have confirmed the widespread existence of a newly emerged canine influenza virus that has jumped species from horses to dogs.

At a recent media briefing by the Center for Disease Control, the following information was given:

--The flu can sometimes be deadly, but the mortality rate is only about 8 percent of those who contract it.  Just as with cases of human flu, patients most likely to succumb are those with pre-existing health issues and/or compromised immune systems.

--At the outset, symptoms resemble those of kennel cough (Bordatello). However,  canine flu can progress to a bacterial infection, leading to complications such as pneumonia.

--There is no vaccine for it yet, but scientists are working to develop one.

--Since it is a newly mutated virus and there is no vaccine for it, all dogs who are exposed to it will contract it, either in mild or serious form.

--It appears to be spread by dog-to-dog contact or close proximity to an infected dog, such as at dog shows or dog parks.

--Anyone whose dog is recovering from canine flu or from any respiratory infection or cough (which may have been the virus) should keep the dog confined and away from other dogs for two weeks after recovery.

The new viral strain was first discovered in 2004 when outbreaks occurred in the Florida Greyhound racing industry, and spread along the East Coast. Since then, it has been reported in many parts of the country, including Southern California and the High Desert.

Kennel cough vaccine will not protect against the new canine flu. However, it still is recommended when dogs will be in close contact with other dogs, such as at boarding kennels or similar situations.

In  Case of Emergency

Be Prepared

When things are going smoothly, it’s hard to stop and plan ahead for emergencies.

Still we know from experience they do happen. Planning ahead for our pets’ welfare is an important part of being prepared.

 According to the ASPCA, part of the plan should be to bring our pets indoors at the first sign or warning of a storm or disaster. Pets can become disoriented and wander away from home during a crisis, so bring them in early, they advise. 

Consider your evacuation route and call ahead to make arrangements for boarding your pet outside of the danger zone at the first sign of disaster. If you must take your pet to an evacuation shelter, be sure he/she is confined in a crate or sturdy carrier with your name and contact information on the crate, and of course on the pet’s tags.

 Best of all, keep your pet safely and securely with you if at all possible. Pets panic easily in confusing situations and keeping them securely contained or leashed is critical. 

The ASPCA recommends keeping an emergency pet kit on hand containing the following:

·         Canned (pop-top) or dry food.

·         Photocopies of medical records and a waterproof container with a two-week supply of any medicine your pet requires. (Remember that food and medications need to be rotated out of your emergency kit otherwise they will go bad or become useless.)

·         Bottled water.

·         A pet traveling bag or sturdy carrier, ideally one for each pet.

·         Flashlight.

·         Blanket (for scooping up a fearful pet)

·         Photos of your pets (in case you are separated and need to make "Lost" posters).

 The kit should contain any other supplies you know your pet will need.

Having a pet that is crate-trained (already used to spending short periods of time in a crate or carrier) is also helpful—for the pet’s sake. If pets have to be taken to evacuation shelters, where they must be kept in crates, being in a strange place with strange activity is not as bad for those who already are crate-trained.

The right way to

feed your puppy

By Frances Goodman

How you feed your new puppy can determine many things about his behavior as an adult, as well as the quality of your relationship with him.

 The most powerful lessons in a new puppy’s life are related to food.

Food is the first and most dramatic way that a puppy identifies with Mama Dog.

 Food continues to play an important role when puppy goes into its new home. The right feeding techniques can help your puppy bond with you and identify you as the leader of his new pack. Early food bowl training can also prevent the development of food bowl aggression or “food guarding” behavior later on.

 Professional trainers have learned that positive experiences with the food bowl at a young age are a valuable part of producing a good dog. You can give your puppy a head start toward becoming a "good dog" by following these professional training methods at feeding time:

MEALTIME SCHEDULE

--FOLLOW A SET feeding schedule, generally three times a day (or more frequently for very young puppies). Then graduate to twice daily when puppy is six months old and throughout adulthood.

--AT FEEDING TIME, leave the food down for no more than 15 minutes. Then take up what is not eaten. Food should be offered again at the next scheduled feeding time. Very soon, puppy’s appetite will correspond with feeding time, and he/she will begin eating on schedule. (This will help with your potty training as well! If we want to schedule the “output,” we need to schedule the “input.”)

Following a set schedule will also help the puppy bond with you and respond to you in a way that free-feeding (leaving food down all the time) will NOT accomplish. Puppy needs to realize that you are the food provider and that you are in charge of it.

(The only reason a structured feeding schedule should not be observed is if your veterinarian advises free-feeding for health reasons.)

FOOD BOWL EXERCISES:

In addition to the above, the following training exercises can help prevent food bowl aggression or “food guarding,” and can result in a happier more relaxed adult dog. (However, do not put yourself at risk if food-bowl-aggression has already developed. These exercises should begin early enough to prevent food bowl aggression from ever beginning.)

--STAY WITH THE PUPPY while he is eating, stroke him gently, and talk lovingly to him. Occasionally dip your hand into the bowl and offer food from your fingers, so the puppy becomes accustomed to having hands around the bowl while he/she is eating. (This exercise should be done by adults in the family. However, with good judgment and close supervision by an adult, children may be allowed to do it, if they do it properly.)

--SOMETIMES remove the dish briefly while puppy is eating, add some crumbled-up treats to the food, and then place the bowl back under his nose so he can continue eating. As you remove the dish, use the word, “GIVE,” and then say, “OKAY!” as you place it back under puppy’s nose.

--WHEN PUPPY is finished eating, remove the empty food bowl from the floor, so that a possessive attitude about the food bowl as puppy’s “property” does not develop.

These methods can help puppy develop a relaxed attitude toward the food bowl and a good relationship with you. You’re on the road to raising a well-behaved dog.

Note: Not sure of the correct amount to feed at each mealtime? Different food formulas have different nutrition levels! Check the label on the food bag to see how much your puppy should get per day.

If the feeding schedule is three times daily, give one/third of the recommended amount at each feeding, or if twice daily, one half at each feeding, so by the end of the day the total recommended quantity has been fed.