Diamond Pet Foods

2008-10-13T05:21:00.000-07:00

Pet napping Cases Rise as Economy Falls

With the current economic challenges, desperate criminals are turning to other methods to make money. They are stealing high valued pets and selling them on the pet “black market”. The American Kennel Club reports that pet thefts are up, but notes that there is no way to tell exact numbers because these thefts are classified as property theft.

The most common breeds that are targeted include expensive looking purebreds, toy group breeds and puppies. Pet nappers realize the street value of these dogs and become more willing to take pets when they can fetch $1500 per dog.

Pet thieves use many different methods to steal expensive pets, so it is important to protect your pet from these would be hooligans. Some will pose as potential buyers of puppies in order to survey your home, only to break in later to steal them. Let only serious buyers or people you trust into your home to view puppies for sale. Other thieves will simply take a dog that is tied up outside a store, while the owner is running errands.

Here are some tips to follow to help protect your pet:
• Have your pet tattooed or microchiped
• Never leave your pet unattended in your yard or tied up in front of a store or business
• Be wary of strangers entering your home view to puppies before purchase
• Take note of unusual vehicles or people loitering in your neighborhood

2008-09-26T05:15:00.000-07:00

Gearing up for Cooler Months

In most parts of the country, the temperatures are starting to drop and it won’t be that long until the snow starts to fly. Winter weather conditions pose interesting and dangerous situations for pets. If you keep the following things in mind during the winter, you can be sure your pets safe, warm and comfortable.

Never leave pets outdoors when the temperature drops. If they must be outside for any period of time, make sure they are supervised. Short haired, young and old pets should be paid more attention to as they may have a more difficult time dealing with the cold. If necessary, use a doggie sweater or coat for walks or extended periods of time outdoors.

Pets that spend more time outdoors will need more food than normal because staying warm in cold months requires extra energy. More food will provide the energy they need to stay warm. Be sure to use plastic food and water dishes instead of metal. The metal can get very cold and your pets tongue could stick to the water dish.

Warm engines in parked cars can attract small animals including cats. To avoid problems, bang on the hood of your car before starting it the next time you go out. This should scare any animals taking a nap in the engine compartment. If you are routinely finding animals under the hood, move your car to a garage or talk to neighbors about stray animals.

Be careful of chemicals being used in and around your home to get rid of ice. These chemicals can be especially dangerous to all pets. The chemicals in salt and other deicers can irritate the pads of the foot. If the irritation persists, your pet may lick their paws to clean them and spread the poison to their mouth. To prevent this, wipe your pets paws with a damp cloth when they come in from outside. Another prominent chemical in the winter is antifreeze. This chemical has a sweet taste that could attract small animals and even children. Be sure to clean up any spills and keep bottles out of reach and off the floor.

2008-09-19T07:29:00.001-07:00

Rabies Awareness and Prevention

World Rabies Day reminds us each year how serious rabies can be. This year World Rabies Day will be help on September 28. The purpose is to raise awareness of the rabies disease. More than 55,000 people with most of them being children, die of rabies each year. Asia and Africa have the highest mortality rates, while North America reports less than 10 human cases per year. Rabies is most common in wild animals with raccoons, foxes, skunks and bats being the most frequent carriers.

While rabies in domestic animals is all but extinct, it is still required to have your animals vaccinated against this viral disease. Unvaccinated animals can still be infected if bitten by an affected carrier. If you suspect a rabid animal has taken residence on your property, you should never try to handle the situation yourself. Contact authorities immediately to take care of the diseased animal. Don’t let your dogs or other pets run loose if there is a threat of a wild rabid animal

It is imperative for pet owners vaccinate their animals to fight the rabies disease each year. For more information about rabies and World Rabies Day, please visit www.worldrabiesday.org

2008-08-29T07:15:00.000-07:00

Breed Rescue Clubs

Breed rescue clubs can be a great way for someone to rescue a pet, but also get the characteristics in a dog that they desire. Many purebreds find their way to shelters because they are not compatible with their owner’s lifestyle. Breed rescue clubs will send members to find and retrieve specific breeds from these shelters. After that, they work hard to adopt these purebreds to the right owner. The application process is extensive and lengthy. Often a team member is sent to the home of the applicant to ensure that the home will be fit for the dog, and the personality of the prospective owner will match.

Breed rescue club adoption rates are more successful than traditional shelters because of their extensive application and interview process. These clubs are devoted to finding a permanent home for the breeds. Rescue clubs are non-profit and rely on donations and adoption fees to keep their efforts going. Many rescue clubs focus on more than just dogs as well. There are clubs for cats, birds, horses and other exotic pets.

Investigating breed rescue clubs can be a great way for an adopter to rescue a pet and get the characteristics they desire. Breed rescue clubs can be found by searching in www.petfinder.com or by typing you desired breed and location and the term “rescue” into Google or your preferred search engine.

2008-08-15T05:10:00.001-07:00

Preparing Pets for Natural Disasters

In most of the US people have to contend with some form of natural disaster. Whether it is hurricanes, tornados, earthquakes or wildfires people with pets need to be prepared to take action quickly. In the worst case scenario, these disasters can leave you without shelter, power or fresh water for days.

The most important aspect of preparing your pet for a natural disaster is making sure they are properly identified. You want to be sure they can be returned to you if they get frightened and run off. You can identify your pet by using an ID tag, microchip or tattoo. Microchips are becoming so common that this is truly the best form of identification for your pet. ID tags can come off the collar, or your pet may slip out of his collar, and if this is the only form of identification, he will be lost. Microchips are affordable and can be inserted under your dog’s skin by your veterinarian.

If you are in a place where you might have to be evacuated and you can’t take your pet with you, make arrangements with a kennel, shelter, or with friends or family to take your pet. It is also good to have a natural disaster pet kit handy. Pack it with essential items you can grab quickly if you have to evacuate including an extra leash, canned or dry food, bottled water and toys. You may also want to have a portable kennel or cage available. Some shelters will allow pets, but only if they are contained.

Knowing your pet’s favorite hiding spot can help in the evacuation process as well. If a pet senses danger they may hole up in a secure spot making it difficult to find them when you need to get out quickly. Take note of when your dog is frightened and see how he/she reacts and where they hide. Knowing this information can save precious moments when you have to get out of the house or into a secure area of your own home.

2008-08-08T07:10:00.000-07:00

Teaching a Dog to Swim

Seeing as we named a swimming stroke after them, you would imagine that dogs would take to the water very naturally. Not necessarily so! While some dogs like Labs, Poodles and Portuguese Water Dogs are very athletic swimmers, Pugs, Bulldogs and Dachshunds need a little coaching. With the heat of the summer reaching its peak, many people are heading to lakes, rivers and pools and taking their dogs with them. Now is the perfect time to get your dog in the water and with the tips below, you will have them swimming like naturals in no time!

Photo Credit: http://www.themorningstarr.co.uk/2008/04/28/canine-wet-suit/

- Take your dog to a quiet place with little distraction. This will help to keep their attention on you and not what is going on around them. This will also help them to stay calm and less confused.

- Use positive encouragement when getting them into the water. Keep your voice upbeat and happy. Great encouragement tools can be treats or a favorite toy.

- NEVER throw your dog in the water. This can traumatize him and make the learning process even more difficult. Gradually expose your dog to the water. If he doesn’t want to go in at that time, don’t force him. Continue to use positive reinforcement with treats and toys.

- Keep safety in mind – You may want to purchase a doggie life vest, even if your dog can swim well. It will also aid in the training dogs new to swimming. As you are teaching your dog to swim, support the body until he starts paddling and gradually let him go.

- Lastly, keep an eye on your dog as he becomes more proficient. Always go in the water with your dog so you can help him out if he needs you.

Not all dogs are meant to be swimmers, so keep that in mind while teaching them. If you happen to have a dog that doesn’t swim, but you still like to be near the water, I would highly recommend purchasing a life vest to fit your dog.

2008-08-01T05:38:00.001-07:00

How Hot is too Hot??

A Canadian teen concerned about leaving pets in a hot car is trying to figure this out. 13 year old Brain Larson of Canada is developing a car alarm that can alert pet owners to high heat danger for their pets in cars. The temperature on the interior of a car can reach sweltering heights in just minutes. Pets can be much more sensitive to this rapid heat increase. Larson first thought of the idea two years ago when his aunt and uncle lost two dogs to heat stroke. Windows and vents to the RV were open, but the heat was too great for the two animals.

Larson will be conducting research all summer to develop the car alarm system. The alarm will have two parts. The first will be an electric temperature gauge installed in the interior of the car. The second will be a device that will be carried by the owner on their key ring. When heats approach a dangerous level, the box will send a signal to the key fob, alerting the owner that the temperature is raising. With the help of local businesses, Larson will be recording temperatures and then developing a prototype product. If all goes according to plan, the prototype should be completed two months after the research is complete.

Larson hopes to reduce the number of pets suffering from heat stroke because they are left in hot cars. Until this product is available, here are some other tips to remember pet summer time safety.

Never leave your pet unattended in a vehicle, even with the windows down, unless the outdoor temperature is below 70 degrees Fahrenheit
Bring extra water
If your dog is panting excessively or with great force, get him out of the heat and give room temperature water. – Giving ice could complicate the problem by constricting blood vessels.
See a vet immediately if you suspect heat stroke – it is a life threatening emergency

2008-08-01T05:33:00.000-07:00

Benefits of Microchipping

Microchipping can be one of the most important things you can do when you adopt or purchase a pet. Just ask 11-year-old Natalie Villacis. Recently her Beagle Rocco was found in Hinesville, GA, nearly 850 miles away from where he was lost 5 years ago. Rocco was returned to his New York City home after a shelter contacted the family and said that they had Rocco. Because of the microchip implanted in Rocco, the shelter was able to obtain valuable information and return him to his family.

This is only one of many stories about pets being returned to their owners due to microchip implants. Pet microchipping is an inexpensive way to make sure your pet does not get lost. Most shelters will microchip your pet before you even take them home. The only thing left to do is activate the service once you get home.

A pet microchip has a specific number that is assigned to it and saved in a database. Vet offices and animal shelters are then supplied with scanners that can read this information and access the owner’s information.

Pet microchip subscriptions are very affordable and this can be money well spent when you consider the range an animal can have once he or she is lost. For more information about pet microchipping, contact your local vet office or animal shelter.

2008-07-18T06:39:00.000-07:00

Pet owners struggle with economic hard times

Owning a pet can be very rewarding, but can also be financially difficult. With economic hard times upon us, many people have had to surrender their pets because the financial burden is too great. People have to choose between feeding their family or their pets. Now more than ever it is more important to decide if adopting a pet is right for you. In many ways having pets is much like having children and is a long term commitment. If you cannot make this commitment, it is better that you wait to adopt or purchase a pet.

For pet owners with tight budgets, let’s review some old and new ways to save money on pet expenses

Food – It is important to feed your pet the highest quality food you can afford. Buy the largest bag that the food comes in and put half in the freezer if you have a small dog or a cat. Larger packages are more economical per pound. If you cannot afford food, contact your local shelter to get information about free food from local pet food banks.

Toys – Pets don’t care if they have the latest and greatest toys. Give your dog a tennis ball and your cat some feathers purchased from a craft store. You can also increase the longevity of toys by rotating them. Give your pet one to play with for a month and then take that away and put a new toy in the rotation. Cycle between 2-3 toys to help them last and keep old toys fresh to your pet.

Pet Care – While routine checkups at the vet are still important, grooming is not as important. Forgo monthly grooming appointments to save some green. If your pet must be groomed, increase time between sessions or learn how to do it yourself.

Adoption – If you are in the position to get a new pet, strongly consider adopting from a shelter. These animals will be much less expensive than getting a purebred. Most shelters will already have the pet spayed or neutered, which will also save money.

There are many other ways to save money on pet care. Be creative, but also keep your pet’s health and safety in mind. With a little thought and effort, you can keep your pet through the hard times and the good.

2008-07-07T05:11:00.000-07:00

Preparing your Pets for Hurricane Season

Hurricane season officially started on June 1^st and doesn’t end until October 31^st. While you might have your family and home prepared for hurricane season, have you prepared your pet? Many people with pets don’t take into account their pets’ needs during a hurricane. Below are some steps you can take to better prepare yourself and your pet for a hurricane.

Prepare a pet disaster kit – Make sure this kit contains medical records, medication, food for two weeks, fresh water, bowls, extra leash and collar and a picture of your pet. Set this kit aside and only use the items during a hurricane. Consider having your pet microchipped by your veterinarian in the event that your pet does get separated from you. Shelters and veterinary hospitals have readers for microchips and will be able to reunite you.

Have a crate available – Pets will be more welcome in shelters if they can be contained. Please note that Red Cross shelters do not accept pets even with a crate. If you plan to use a Red Cross shelter, you will have to board your pet or leave it with friends or family.

Make Prior Arrangements – Research hotels and motels outside your immediate area to review their pet policies. Some won’t allow pets, but may waive this rule in the event of an emergency. Save this information and contact numbers somewhere safe so you can make quick reservations if you have to evacuate. It is also a good idea to make reservations at a kennel outside the evacuation zone or arrange for family or friends to take your pet if you cannot take him/her with you.

Miscellaneous Tips - Make sure your pets are wearing secure collars with up to date information. This will help them to be returned to you. Bring pets inside well before a storm is approaching so you don’t have to search for them when it is time to go. Last but not least, stay calm. If you can be calm, it will help your pet to be calm and will ultimately make the entire situation much easier.

2008-06-23T05:06:00.000-07:00

Pets Help us Heal

Who knew man’s best friend could be the best medicine for recovery? Many physicians are starting to recommend pet therapy to patients for living a healthier life.

Research has shown that being in a room with a pet can lower blood pressure and reduce stress levels. Some researchers believe this is because relationships with pets are not as complex as those with humans, which makes it easier to relax.

Pets have also helped ill patients deal with their conditions. Because it seems that pets are always happy, patients say they can’t feel anything but happy when the pets are in the room. Physicians have seen unresponsive patients become interactive with pets in the room.

Pets are also a proven way to help people maintain a healthier lifestyle. People with pets are more active than those without. The increased activity level helps people stay fit through the course of their life.

If you are interested in introducing a new pet into your life, my advice would be to contact your local shelter or humane society. There are many pets available through these channels and others that are waiting to give you unconditional love.

2008-06-17T05:13:00.000-07:00

Tips to help Your Pets cope with Fireworks

With Independence Day being less than a month away, it is a good time to discuss the relationship between pets and fireworks. Fireworks can be very harmful to your pets, causing hearing problems and psychological stress. Many pets react differently to fireworks and loud noises, so when using the below suggestions, you will want to monitor your pet to be sure they are reacting safely.

Dogs

Exercise your dog during the day
Never walk your dog while fireworks are going off
During the evening hours when fireworks are most common, keep your dog inside with windows and curtains shut. It is good to play music or have the TV on to mask the noise.
Don’t get upset if your dog wants to hide in a corner or under furniture. If you show anger, the dog can associate this with something that they are doing wrong and have psychological issues in the future. They may also become defensive.
Be sure your dog is wearing a collar with up-to-date information so he can be returned if he runs off.

If your dog gets especially upset during firework displays and other loud noise events, you can ask your vet about the Dog Appeasing Pheromone. This is a synthetically created chemical that acts like the natural scent produced by a dog shortly after it has given birth. This pheromone is naturally calming and reassuring to newborn puppies. You can get it in the form of a plug in diffuser that will spread the scent in the air. Scientists have found that it works on dogs of all ages.

Cat owners can follow the same rules as you would a dog. Cats often react the same as dogs do. They will hide, act upset and possibly hiss or claw if you try to bring them out of their hiding place.

2008-06-09T06:29:00.000-07:00

Common Household items can harm pets

Pets can be a lot like babies, very curious and able to get into almost anything. This is why it is especially important to keep household items and chemicals locked up and out of reach. Below are the most common items the National Animal Poison Control center reports as seeing increases in occurrences over time.

Human Medications – This is the most common item that emergency vets report that animals get into. Prescription medication is made according to the size and weight of the person taking it, so it can be very harmful even in small amounts pet. Over the counter medications such as Tylenol are very toxic, especially to cats.

Veterinary Medicines – While your vet may prescribe drugs for your pet, it is important to only give the amount directed. Much like human medications, vet medicines are prescribed in determined amounts. If your pet gets too much, it could prove harmful. This is especially dangerous when you use medications that are flavored to make them easier to administer. If a pet gets a hold of the bottle, they may end up eating a very large quantity of medication.

Common House Plants – Obviously, poisonous plants should be avoided all together, but even more common house plants should be kept out of reach of your pets as they can upset the stomach of pets.

Home improvement items – Things such a cleaners, solvents, glues and other toxic chemicals should be locked up or kept out of reach. Also included in this group would be common household cleaners such as floor cleaner, bathroom cleaner and ammonia products.

Antifreeze – Most people are aware of the dangers of antifreeze but many do not realize that it requires only a very small amount to be ingested before toxic effects occur. Clean up any spills immediately and keep bottles of antifreeze out of the access area of your pets.

There are many other items in your home and work area that can be dangerous for pets. A good rule of thumb is if you wouldn’t want a child to get into it, you don’t want your pets to get into it either. If you are unsure about an item, keep it out of reach. If your pet should happen to get into any item, seek medical attention immediately.

2008-06-05T12:54:00.000-07:00

People Food can be deadly to your Pet

It can be tempting to treat your pet to “people food”. Did you know that certain types of people food can cause sickness and even death for your pet? While it is hard to resist the sad puppy dog look, it is important to resist giving them human treats. In 2007, the Animal Poison Control center received over 130,000 calls due to human food and other household items. When treating your pet, it is important to stick to the treats specifically made for animals. Below is a short list of common foods that can be harmful to your pet’s health

Chocolate – It contains Theobromine, which can kill your pet if eaten in large quantities. Dark and unsweetened bakers chocolate are especially toxic to pets. When using these items in the kitchen, keep them out of reach and never give them as treats.

Sugar-free gum – Often contains xylitol, an artificial sweetener. This ingredient can alter the blood sugar levels of your dog, leading to collapse and seizures. It can also cause acute liver failure.

Grapes and raisins – This might come as a surprise but these fruits can make your pet very sick. They can lead to kidney failure over time. The toxin can build up in your pets system, so even 1 or 2 grapes or raisins a day over a period of time can have serious consequences.

Alcoholic Beverages – This may be a very obvious tip, but alcohol can have dire effects on your pet. These beverages can have the same damaging effect as they do in people, but even more so in animals. Their bodies and organs are much smaller than ours, so they can tolerate less.

If you are looking to reward your pet for good behavior, or just give them a treat, it is important to give only treats made for your pet. If you have questions about what to feed your pet, contact your vet.

2008-05-27T05:35:00.000-07:00

Summer Pet Fun

Summer is officially here. With that brings more outdoor fun and added heat. Let’s take a look at some of the summers best pet toys and cooling devices.

Chuck-it (my personal favorite) – If you don’t know what this is you are totally missing out. This handy ball thrower is a great way to keep your dog entertained while keeping your hands clean. The device allows you to pick up the ball hands free without bending over. They come in many sizes to fit your particular breed’s needs. They can be purchased at most pet retailers. For more information and other products from Chuck-it, check out http://www.caninehardware.com.

Another favorite summer toy is the standard throwing dummy. These have been in use by dog trainers for years. These durable dummies can take the abuse and they float on water. You simply give it a toss into a body of water and your dog takes over. These are a great way to give your dog exercise and training, and this activity keeps them very cool. These items can be purchased at most pet stores or from training professionals

The last product is not a toy at all, but a cooling aid for the hottest of days. The Cool-It cooling bandanna can be used during the summer to keep Fido cool. Simply soak it for 15-30 minutes and wrap it around your dog. The cooling effect will last for hours. For extra refreshment, you can place it in your refrigerator and then put it on your dog. For more information or to purchase please visit this online pet store.

2008-05-23T05:08:00.000-07:00

Pet Laparoscopy

This surgery also known as minimally invasive surgery is now making its way to pet surgeon’s offices. This procedure has been in use for quite some time with human patients, but technology has been improved to the point where it can now be used on family pets.

With a combination of fiber optics, cameras and small and precise incisions, the Laparoscopy procedure can reduce the pain and recovery time in routine surgeries. Since the procedure is using updated and advanced techniques, bleeding is reduced and the chance for mistakes is lessened. These factors have led to diminished pain and shortened recovery times.

Pet Laparoscopic procedures are being used for many routine procedures that used to be more invasive and painful. The most common procedure that this newer technique is being used for is the Spay procedure. Surgeons’ have reported that recovery time is much faster and less pain is felt. They have also reported that the stay time in the pet hospital is shortened. Other procedures that Laparoscopy is being used for include alleviating bloat in large dog breeds and biopsies. The procedure tends to be more expensive, but the surgeons and owners of patients say it is well worth it.

2008-05-15T07:08:00.000-07:00

National Pet Week 2008

Did you know that one week out of each year is designated National Pet Week? For 2008, May 4-10 is designated with this title. During this week, pet owners are encouraged to pay a little more attention to their pet’s needs. This is a great time to get your pet into the vet to make sure they are healthy and all of their vaccinations are up to date. Many vet offices offer discounts during the week to encourage people to bring their pets in for checkups. This is also a good time to evaluate your pet’s nutrition and exercise habits. If either is lacking, now is a great time to make a change in the positive direction.

National Pet Week was created in 1981 to promote responsible pet ownership, the human-animal bond and promotion of the advances in veterinary medicine. National Pet week was founded by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the Auxiliary to the AVMA. It is celebrated across the United States and in other parts of the world.

National Pet Week is not just for dogs and cats. It is important to make sure all animals are healthy and well cared for. Whatever kind of pet you have, this week is your chance to pay special attention to them and get them into the vet for routine checkups.

2008-05-09T06:36:00.000-07:00

Eco-Friendly Pets

With going “Green” being as popular as it is these days, it’s no surprise that pet owners want to do more with how they live with their pets and making that lifestyle more eco-friendly. Many companies are popping up on the net and elsewhere that are featuring green pet products and more eco-friendly items. It is estimated that recycled pet products save as much as 30 million plastic bottles from going to landfills each year. Many products that are made from these recycled bottles include beds, toys and other pet products. You can find many of these products in your local stores and on the internet by searching for eco friendly pet products.

Another area where green pet owners are making great strides is with disposing of pet waste. Nearly 2 million tons of cat litter gets dumped in landfills each year. New biodegradable litters are available that are made from whole kernel corn and green tea mixed with sawdust. Some cities have instituted dog cleanup stations with biodegradable “mitts” for picking up pet waste. San Francisco and other cites in the Bay Area are on the forefront of this initiative by recycling pet waste into bio fuel and striving to help eliminate the impact of pet waste on landfills by 2010. Some homeowners are even hiring people to come and clean up their yard. These companies remove the waste, recycle it and keep yards free of parasites and disease.

Going green with pets can be fairly easy. Check out your local store for ideas, surf the net and talk to other pet owners. As time goes on, more green pet products will be available for you and your pet.

2008-04-30T05:11:00.000-07:00

Fit Pets Live Longer

Like humans, if a pet is fit and healthy, it will likely live longer. Your pet is totally dependent on you for fitness and eating habits. If you are noticing that your pet is not as fit your vet recommends or a little over weight, now is the time to change the behavior to help them live a longer life. Here are some things you can do to help jumpstart the process.

Feed your pet properly - Do the necessary research for the breed and size of pet. If you are guessing, or just going by what you think the pet wants can be harmful to your pet. Talk to professionals to make sure that your pet is getting the proper type of food in the right amounts so that they will receive the nutrition they need. If you need to change your current feeding habits, do it gradually so your pet will have time to adjust to anything new.

Fresh Water - Give your pet fresh water throughout the day and be sure to give more in hotter months. Monitor water levels and keep up with your pets drinking habits. A hydrated pet is a healthy pet.

Play with pets – Play with your pets every day. This will help them stay active and have some fun too. Play ball with your dog or tease your cat with its favorite toy. Not only will playing keep your pet healthy, but it is a great bonding and social activity for the pet as well.

Training – This is one of the best ways to keep your pet safe. Taking a trainable animal to obedience school is a great idea for many reasons. It will help socialize the animal and keep you and others safe. A trained pet is a safe pet.

Doctor Visits – Many people take this for granted, but it is one of the most important steps to keeping your pet safe. It is important to take your pet to the vet at least once a year for check ups. If you have an exotic or special care pet, try to find a vet that is specialized and familiar with your pet’s species and breed.

2008-04-10T05:14:00.000-07:00

Pet Orthotics

From the repair of torn ligaments to mending broken bones, veterinary orthopedic medicine has made huge advances. But, what happens when the cost of a surgery is prohibitive or when surgery alone cannot give a pet a good quality of life?

Like their human counterparts, animals are also prone to a variety of debilitating injuries and pains including torn ligaments, broken bones and debilitating arthritis.

Human medicine has battled these ailments with the help of orthotics for years. By using custom braces and devices to support and correct limb function, orthotics help individuals with neurological problems such as cerebral palsy, strokes and spinal cord injuries, as well as orthopedic injuries like ligament tears and fractures. Additionally, these devices are used to support an injured joint before and after surgery.

Luckily, advances in veterinary orthopedics, combined with the ingenuity of human injury specialists, are bringing this type of relief to many pets – even saving lives!

With more than a decade of experience in human orthotics, Dr. Martin Kaufmann began exploring the potential of pet orthotics after his cousin’s Schnauzer suffered from a stroke and lost all ability in one leg. Facing amputation, Kauffman developed an ingenious brace allowing the dog to use his leg normally – saving his leg, and quite possibly – his life.

Since then, Kauffman has devoted his talents to helping pets. His company, Ortho Pets (www.orthopets.com) is dedicated to supporting the quality of pets’ lives through the science of orthotics.

So far, Kaufmann’s company has helped thousands of animals across the United States and Europe. Today, he continues to advance his work by teaching courses at Colorado State University.

But by far, one of Kauffman’s biggest success stories is about an adorable, overweight Labrador retriever named Otis.

Otis ruptured his rear leg Achilles tendon. Although the tendon was successfully repaired with surgery, Otis’ extreme obesity made it difficult for his leg to heal. To make matters worse, Otis began transferring his weight – eventually developing problems in his good leg. As a result, Otis was extremely uncomfortable, had great difficulty walking and poor quality of life.

Working with Otis’ veterinarian, Ortho Pets designed a pair of custom braces to protect the damaged leg, and at the same time, support his good leg. Now with a strict diet and miracle braces from Ortho Pets, Otis is a healthy, happy Labrador retriever.

Often, a painful orthopedic condition can cause severe suffering and disability in a pet. Unaware of companies like Ortho Pets, pet owners often believe that easing the pain of their companion through euthanasia is the only option – this is not always the case.

In some cases, a custom orthotic brace alleviates pain and corrects dysfunction, allowing the pet to move normally and without pain.

Likewise, owners often face difficult decisions due to surgery costs and extended aftercare services their pet may require. Additionally, many veterinary surgeons recommend strict cage rest with no activity for six to eight weeks after surgery. For many dogs, this enforced rest period is difficult.

Custom orthotic braces may support the post-operative joint, allowing the animal to become active earlier. For some elderly pets or pets who are not good surgical candidates, a brace may support the injured joint well enough for the pet to live a normal life without surgery.

Custom orthotics provide more options when striving to help an injured or disabled pet. Working together, pet owners, veterinary surgeons and orthotic specialists improve and save the lives of many pets that may have been forced to live with pain – or perhaps, may not have lived at all.

To see pictures or video of Otis and custom

orthotic devices, visit www.MyVNN.com.

2008-04-04T07:37:00.000-07:00

Keeping pets cool in the summer.

Summer is approaching fast and with that comes warmer days and increased outdoor activity. In the past we have talked about how to keep your pets warm in the winter. Summer months provide a different challenge; keeping your pets cool. With a little more attention and some forethought, you can keep your pets cool and healthy during the hottest parts of the year.

By following these guidelines you can be sure that your pet will stay cool and healthy.

Provide extra water – As activity outdoors increases, your pet will need more water to stay cool. At home, provide more than one dish, or monitor water levels to be sure your pet does not run out. If you are outside walking or hiking, it is essential that you bring water for your pet. Water is necessary to keep up with the increased activity and heat. Another form of water to offer can be in a bath or running sprinklers. Pets can cool off by drinking or walking through this water.

Limit exercise time – Take your walks or jogs in the early morning or later in the day after sunset, these parts of the day are generally cooler.

Summer haircut – By getting your pet trimmed, you can help them be more comfortable in the heat. Remember never to shave down to the skin. By doing this you remove the essential protection the natural coat provides and increases the chances of sunburn.

Keep travel plans in mind – Try not to fly at the height of summer as this is the hottest time of the year. When you fly with pets, many times they will be transported in another area of the plane that is not temperature controlled. If you must fly, try and request a direct flight. For those traveling by car, bring lots of water and check on your pet often.

Other Quick Tips

Never leave pets in the car
Provide more shade
Keep pets in well ventilated areas
Pay more attention to them in the summer

2008-03-21T07:10:00.000-07:00

In times of Economic downturn, there are ways to save on pet bills.

When the economy turns south, many people will budget their money accordingly. Unfortunately during hard times, pets suffer as well. Sometimes owners do not have as much expendable income to be able to give pets the things they need. Fortunately there are some things you can do that will help you save money and give your pet the care it needs during harder times.

Save on Surgeries. – If your pet has a scheduled surgery coming up, it might benefit you to shop around. Depending on where you live, prices for the same services can vary dramatically. Often times prices in big cites are more expensive than if you look in the outskirts. It is not unheard of to save hundreds of dollars if you visit a vet a few hours outside of a city.

Save on Dental – Dental diseases are the most common ailments in pets. Periodontal diseases can lead to other health problems, including heart and kidney problems. It is recommended that you have your pet’s teeth cleaned once a year. The most expensive part of this treatment is the anesthesia. Brush your pet’s teeth or offer dental chews to prevent dental disease from getting to the point where anesthesia and a dental prophylaxis are required.

Forgo the Groomer – When times are tough, it is time to take matters into your own hands! Taking a pet to the groomer can cost $45 or more. Washing at home in the tub with store bought pet shampoo can cost pennies per time. You do the math! If you do not have the room or a tub, look for do-it-yourself pet washing businesses. These are popping up around the country and are far cheaper than a traditional groomer trip.

Bulk up! – Per pound, it is cheaper to buy in large quantities. This is true in dog food, cat food and cat litter. If you compare prices you will find that the price per pound is far less when comparing a 40 lb bag of food compared to an 8 lb bag of food. More retailers are carrying different brands of cat and dog food and supplies so shop around for sales or the best price on the food that you feed. If you have a freezer, you can rebag the food into Ziploc bags and store a portion in the freezer to keep it fresher longer.

Last but not least….

Rotate toys vs. buying new ones. People love their pets, and the new toys can be tempting when going to buy the necessities. If you are like most pet owners, your house is already full of toys, and your pet has some favorites. Instead of buying new toys, rotate the ones you already own. Keep some hidden and give them to the pet less often. This will keep current toys seem more new if the pet does not get to play with them as much.

2008-03-12T14:02:00.000-07:00

Things to Consider When Getting Your Pets Presents

One of the ways to help ensure that your pet is not only healthy, but happy, is playtime. Whether the playtime is while you are at home or when you are at work, giving your pets an outlet with which to exercise their natural prey-chasing behaviors alleviates boredom and curbs destructive behaviors. When choosing what toys to give to your pet, it's helpful to keep in mind that the process is much like choosing which toys your children play with.

While cats tend to be somewhat particular with what they like to play with, dogs tend to want to play with anything and everything that captures their interest. Cats generally prefer to interact with a toy that has movement, as this triggers their prey-chasing behavior. Laser lights and feathers tied on strings make great toys, but do require your participation. Playing with your cat will help keep your cat in good physical condition and help prevent obesity. Dogs are basically interested in toys that have a taste or smell that appeals to them (for the most part, the stronger the scent, the more intense the interest).

Sometimes the most common household item is the most dangerous for your pet. Everyday items such as string, ribbon, rubber bands, plastic milk jug rings, paper clips, pins, needles, coins, erasers, pens, even dental floss are easily ingested by your pets. A simple suggestion is to pet-proof your home just as you would child-proof your home.

To occupy your pets while you are at work or even while you are at home, be sure to make toys available to them. Here are some thoughts to keep in mind when considering which toys to give to your pets:

Toys should be appropriate for your pet's size. Toys which are too small for your pet can easily be swallowed or become lodged in your pet's throat.
If a toy has parts that can be chewed and/or ingested, it is best to avoid it. Adornments such as ribbons, strings, doll eyes, buttons, or other removable parts can choke your pet or lead to stomach upset or possibly internal blockage or lacerations.
If a well-loved toy becomes well-worn, throw it away. Broken or torn toys present the same dangers as toys with removable parts.
A good rule of thumb, base your purchase by reading child safety labels. If the toy is labeled as being safe for children ages three and under and doesn't contain a dangerous filling, then it is safe to give to your pet. Dangerous fillings include nutshells and polystyrene beads, but be cautious with so-called safe fillings as well. Anything that can be swallowed may choke or otherwise injure your pet. Stuffed toys should be played with while under your supervision.
When it comes to chewable toys, such as rawhides, always check with your veterinarian as to which ones are safe for your pet. As with stuffed or soft toys, chewable toys should also only be played with under your supervision. A safer alternative are very hard rubber toys. They will last longer as well. Just remember that cats generally do not like hard toys and may ignore them.
For the “squeaky” toys, always remember that when alone and bored, the noisemaker at the center may be an unavoidable challenge. A determined pet may destroy the squeaky toy just to get at the noisemaker and your pet may wind up ingesting it. Squeaky toys are another play thing that should be used under your supervision.

Choosing the right toy for your pet can not only give them a good source of entertainment while you are at work, but can also offer a fantastic bonding experience for you and your pet. For the most enjoyable playtime experience, be sure to choose a new present for your pet carefully.

2008-03-07T13:44:00.000-08:00

One Medicine Cabinet For The Entire Family (Including Your Pet!)

Did you know that some of the over-the-counter and even prescription medications that you have in your medicine cabinet may be used to treat your pet? Many of the prescription medications that veterinarians prescribe are also the same medications that your doctor might prescribe to you for various ailments. However, this does not mean that you should attempt to treat your pet without a veterinarian’s expert advice, as dosages and frequencies are often VERY different for pets than for us humans.

For the most part, veterinary prescriptions are meant for pets and human prescriptions are meant for people. But there are some medications that can be used both for you and your pet! These medications may be used in treating everything from stomach aches to car sickness. Among the common household human medications that can be used for your pet are:

Buffered aspirin (for pain relief -- keep in mind, though, this is not recommended for cats! Also, do not use Ibuprofen or Tylenol for your pets. It should be buffered aspirin only!)
Vitamin B (to stimulate the appetite)
Benadryl (for allergic reactions and itching)
Dramamine (car sickness)
Pepto Bismol (used for diarrhea, vomiting, and as an antacid)
Mineral oil (helps with constipation)
Kaopectate (relieves diarrhea)
Canned pumpkin (relieves constipation)
Pepcid (for use as an antacid)
Robitussin DM (for coughs -- this is also not recommended for cats)
Imodium AD (relives diarrhea -- not for cats!)

If your pet is showing any signs of discomfort, you should always check with your veterinarian. You should also call your vet before dispensing any household medications or treatments. It’s always better to be safe than sorry and your vet can tell you whether or not the medications are still considered safe and acceptable based on the latest findings. In addition, your vet can tell you the correct dosages and give you peace of mind by informing you of what to watch for and how long your pet may feel ill.

Between your vet and your medicine cabinet, your pet can soon be feeling better after having gotten into the garbage. Just a little advice on how much Pepto Bismol to spread on a piece of bread will have your pet well again in no time!

2008-02-25T13:48:00.000-08:00

Feline Heartworm

Dog owners are well aware of Heartworm disease and have been giving their pets the recommended preventive medication for years. Cats are also susceptible to this deadly disease. It is less commonly diagnosed in cats because there is often only one worm present, making the antigen test appear negative. This disease is most commonly misdiagnosed as Feline asthma. Feline heartworm disease is also hard to detect because symptoms don’t usually appear until 2-3 months after the cat has been infected. People have also reported that their otherwise healthy cat has suddenly died. Symptoms of Feline heartworm disease can include the following:

Coughing
Wheezing
Difficulty breathing
Anorexia
Vomiting
Lethargy
Weight loss
Some cats show no signs at all, but die suddenly

Adult heartworms in cats live for 2-3 years and then suddenly die which can potentially cause fatal embolisms. There is no approved treatment if a cat is diagnosed with heartworm disease, so prevention is key. Your vet can recommend many preventive solutions to guard against heartworm. Medication can come in the form of a monthly oral medication, or topical treatment. Even if you have an indoor only cat, you should protect against heartworm. It has been said that indoor cats are at higher risk than outdoor cats, therefore, all cats should be on preventive medication.

Since there is no approved treatment if your cat should be diagnosed with heartworm disease, your vet will want to have follow-up checkups every 6-12 months to monitor the disease. If you suspect your cat has any symptoms, contact your vet as soon as you witness them. Your vet will be your best resource for preventing and monitoring feline heartworm infection.