Animal Companions and Their People Blog

Archive for the ‘pet tips’ Category

Growing old is not easy – for our pets or us. There are so many physical, emotional and mental issues that accompany the aging process. Many of us are burdened with increased physical as well as mental limitations, and we find ourselves unaccustomed to being able to perform tasks that we found easy to accomplish during our younger years.

Just as is the case with human beings, some pets age more gracefully and easily than others. In this wonderful age of advanced technology, we have learned to improve the quality and increase the longevity of both animal and human lives.

The following are some simple and direct ways of prolonging the lives of our beloved animal companions.

As your pet approaches his senior years, pay close attention to any physical or behavioral changes taking place. Make it a special point to closely observe any changes in his physical condition, personality or behavior. Is he shyer, reticent, lethargic or is he more aggressive, assertive or dominant? Is he physically slower and less agile than he has been? Does he slow down more quickly and recoil from playtime or interaction. Does he seem to want to isolate or withdraw from interaction with his family members or buddies? You know your pet better than anyone else – it is up to you to note any changes in his personality, overall health and behavior. If you are concerned about any of the above, take your dog to your vet. Consult with your vet to determine the best health care and nutritional program for your pet.

Pet and feel your animal companion often, and check for any unusual lumps, bumps, areas of sensitivity, or pain, redness or swelling, wounds or patchy, raw skin, excessive panting or drooling. Being proactive is the best way to protect your pet from any serious illnesses or potential health problems.

As your pet grows older, take him to the vet more frequently in order to determine if he has any conditions or potential conditionals that may require a special exercise regime, supplements or diet.

As your pet ages, you may witness many changes. He may be slowing down. Look for subtle changes in the way he gets up or sits down and deals with stairs. Arthritis is common among older dogs – especially the larger breeds. Another possible cause for slowing down is hypothyroidism, an endocrine disorder in older dogs.

Graying around the muzzle may also be a sign that your pet is aging. Most dogs begin to show graying at around five or six years old.

Reduced vision or hearing may also be indications that your pet is aging. If you suspect that your pet is experiencing diminished sight or hearing, take extra care to protect him from hazards. On walks, keep your dog on a leash at all times.

Check your pet’s mouth and teeth. With proper dental care and food, you can decrease the chances of him developing periodontal disease.

Check your pet’s eyes for signs of cloudiness, irritation, redness or discharge.

Flea and tick as well as heartworm prevention should be administered on a regular basis.

Massaging your pet can prove beneficial to your pet and can help you detect any abnormalities early on become they develop into more serious conditions.

Today, there are so many ways of providing quality care for your senior pet including a variety of holistic and homeopathic modalities in addition to traditional veterinary medicine. However, most important to the increased longevity and quality of life for your pet is your love and care for him.

Dog Behavior Specialist, Dr. Diane Pomerance

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Many pet owners suffer severe anxiety and distress when they are separated from their animal companion. These pets play such a pivotal and vital role of our every day lives and routines, it is difficult for many of us to leave them behind, whether we are going to work or away on vacation or a business trip. We may do everything in our power to ensure that they are well cared for in our absence but, nonetheless, we worry about them and miss them. So many of us fail to consciously realize what a significant role these pets play in our lives and overall well being. We feed them, exercise and play them, go for walks, share holidays and vacations with them, and spend countless hours in their comforting presence.

Our pets, as part of our pack or members of our family have a deep love for and loyalty to us, their family. When we leave them, many, who are very attached to us, suffer from great stress, sadness, frustration and anxiety. In a previous article, I wrote about some of the many manifestations separation anxiety may assume in your pets. I would like to help you treat this condition. Recognizing some of the symptoms of your dog’s anxiety is an important step in helping resolve this issue. Is your dog whimpering, whining, barking excessively, following your every move as you prepare to leave? When you are away, does he chew, dig, defecate or urinate arbitrarily? Does he lick himself howl, attempt to escape, self-mutilate, panic? When you return, does he display frantic, overly excited, effusive greeting behaviors? Does he stay as close to you as possible for as long as possible? There are many ways to overcome your pet’s separation anxiety.

First and foremost, take this situation seriously. You pet is not “acting” or “acting out” on purpose. He is genuinely fearful and concerned about being apart from you. You are his caregiver, parent, best friend and companion. He is dependent upon you for all of his needs.

Some of the ways you can treat your dog’s separation anxiety are as follows:

Don’t make a dramatic exit when you are ready to depart. Make it calm, simple. and matter-of-fact.

Practice leaving for only a short while and returning. Leave for longer periods each time,
and greet your pet calmly and casually when you return.

Leave your dog in a safe and comfortable room with an article of clothing that has your scent.

Keep his special toys and blanket in this room. Provide him with a Kong or other toys containing treats like peanut butter or cheese in them. He can “work” on getting the treat from the toy.

Place him in a room with a window so that he can look out.

Leave the television or radio left on while you’re away.

When you are home, keep your pet in rooms other than the one you’re in for increasingly longer periods of time until he gets used to you being apart from one another. Make sure he has toys, and come in the room frequently to reassure him that you will always return to him.

Try to exercise or walk your dog before you leave home. A tired dog is generally a better behaved dog. Increase the amount of exercise he gets.

Get your dog accustomed to getting ready to leave cues, such as changing your clothes, getting out your keys, putting on your jacket. Repeat these actions without actually leaving home. Your pet will get the idea that you will be returning.

Consider taking your dog to doggie daycare or to a friend or neighbor’s house while you are away.

Consult your veterinarian about drug therapy. Such medications as the tricyclic antidepressants, buspirone and benxoodiazepines may help your dog get over his anxiety These meds should only be used in conjunction with desensitization/counter conditioning work – teaching the dog how to deal with being left alone.” Reconcile” is a chewable, flavored tablet (fluoxetine hydrochloride) that you give your dog once daily to treat separation anxiety in conjunction with a simple training plan.

Homeopathic remedies such as the Bach Flower Essence mix, Rescue Remedy” may also help calm an anxious dog.

The DAP method is another alternative to helping your dog. It is a “plug-in” product that releases a chemical that is supposed to be a dog comforting hormone.

Keep calm and be patient. Discuss your dog’s separation anxiety issues with a knowledgeable veterinarian. Having lived with many dogs that have had separation anxiety, I know that it can be treated and resolved satisfactorily. – for the benefit of you and your best friend!

Dog Behavior Specialist, Dr. Diane Pomerance

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One of the most important health decisions you can make for your pet is to spay or neuter your cat or dog. Spaying and neutering refer to the surgical procedures that sterilize your animal and ensure that your pet cannot reproduce. If we do not spay/neuter our pets, we potentially take homes away from those animals in greatest need. There is an overabundance of stray and homeless animals that will invariably be euthanised. By spaying//neutering your pet, you are helping the homeless animals that exist to find homes. Spaying involves the removal of the ovaries and uterus of a female pet. The procedure involves minimal hospitalization and provides lifelong benefits. Neutering involves the removal of the testicles of your male pet – and will improve his health as well as his behavior.

What are some of the benefits of spaying a female cat or dog? You reduce or eliminate the heat cycles, so that males will not be attracted to her. She will have less of a desire to roam. You decrease the risk of mammary gland tumors. The likelihood of her having ovarian and/or uterine cancer is also decreased. Spaying your pet before her first heat offers the best protection from these diseases. Again, you are reducing the number of unwanted cats, dogs, kittens and puppies.

Among the benefits of neutering males are: the lessening of their desire to roam or escape which, in turn, decreases the likelihood of their being injured in fights or car accidents. An intact male will do just about anything to find a mate. The risk of testicular cancer is eliminated. The incidence of prostate cancer is also decreased. Aggressive behavior is far less common, including biting. Neutering your pet helps him live a longer, healthier life and reduces the number of unwanted pets.

By spaying or neutering your pet, you are benefiting your community. Unwanted animals pose many problems and can be A great public nuisance – creating noise, soiling streets and property, frightening people, causing automobile accidents and fighting with and even killing or injuring other pets.

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, “The capture, impoundment and eventual destruction of unwanted animals costs taxpayers and private humanitarian agencies over a billion dollars each year. As a potential source of rabies and other less serious diseases, they can be a public hazard.”

Adopting a pet requires a lifetime of commitment to him and for his well-being. It is in your best interest as well as his to make him a happy, healthy member of your home and a good citizen in your community.

Dog Behavior Specialist, Dr. Diane Pomerance

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We all know that children and dogs share a very special relationship. Kids forge a unique and powerful bond with their animal companions. They play with them, talk to and laugh with them, walk with them, do their homework with them and even share their strongest feelings and deepest secrets with them. Dogs love children unconditionally and never yell at or punish them for not doing their homework or chores or for not cleaning their bedroom. Kids and dogs - you just can’t beat this winning combination!

Kids learn compassion and responsibility by learning to share life with and feed and care for their pets. They learn to value and appreciate all living creatures. They learn a lot about life itself, getting sick or old, living in the moment, sharing companionship and friendship– and also the care and commitment an animal companion requires and deserves.

When is it appropriate for a child to have a pet? It truly depends on the child’s family situation and his own maturity. As a parent, know that you are ultimately responsible for the care and well-being of your family pet. Children are well-intentioned and may promise that they will take care of the pet on their own. But we, as parents, know, that children are easily distracted and preoccupied with their own responsibilities such as school, extracurricular activities, human friendships and social obligations. They may be very well-intentioned, but lack the maturity to assume full responsibility for another living being.

Before adopting a pet into your family, it is very important to have serious discussions about the obligations and responsibilities associated with pet guardianship or “parenthood”. Your child must thoroughly understand that a pet is a sentient, living creature who may be shorter lived than he, who may get sick and require veterinary care, who depends on humans for his regular food, water, grooming, exercise and overall wellness. He is a vulnerable creature who depends entirely on his human caregivers. You must also decide which type of dog best suits your family’s personality and lifestyle and to whom which responsibilities of the pet’s daily needs will be delegated.

Much thought and deliberation of each family member is required to determine if a pet is appropriate for you. Consider that the pet should be spayed or neutered, receive his vaccinations and regular visits to the vet to make sure he is in good health, have a nutritious and healthy diet, daily exercise and playtime, frequent interaction with his human family, and receive socialization and obedience training. Each member of the family must understand that the pet requires a lifetime commitment to keep him as happy and healthy and comfortable as possible. If you do not have the time, space or budget to provide a healthy life for a pet, please do not adopt one. There are countless homeless animals who have been surrendered to animal welfare organizations and shelters and ultimately euthanised simply because their owners did not take the time to conduct research as to the time, space, activity level and money associated with keeping a pet or consider how much attention, interaction and care an animal companion requires. A pet has the potential of becoming a loving, devoted, loyal, unconditionally loving and beloved family member. If he is neglected, he can become sick, bored and destructive. Whether or not to get a dog for the kids is an extremely important decision. Take the time and make the effort to determine if a pet is in your child’s future!

Dr. Diane Pomerance

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It is my personal opinion that any one of any age can truly benefit from becoming a pet parent. Animal companions greatly enhance and deeply enrich our lives. Dogs have taught me so many life lessons, brought me such fun and laughter, and have been such a healing force in my own life that I can’t imagine life without one. I currently have twenty-two rescue dogs of varying breeds and ages. I have senior dogs, adolescents and puppies. Each has a story to share and a unique personality.

I have six animal assisted therapy dogs that have been certified and who, with their extraordinary ability to heal and unconditionally love humans, are able to visit and improve the quality of life for many patients in hospitals, and those living in assisted living centers, nursing homes and hospice care facilities. I have personally observed the healing power of pets time after time.

If it is an option and desire of a senior citizen to have a pet, I say, by all means, do so. First conduct research regarding the breed that best suits your personality, temperament, lifestyle, activity level, budget and overall quality of life. Of course, you must possess a certain degree of health and well being in to be able to provide the animal with the proper care and exercise a dog requires. You must realistically assess your ability to take on the responsibility of feeding, grooming, exercising and interacting with a pet. If you have any concerns about being able to care for a pet, do you have friends, relatives, neighbors or caregivers who are willing and able to assist you with his care? When researching the kind of dog you feel would best fit into your life, you may also want to consider adopting an older dog rather than a puppy as puppies can be very active, mischievous, rambunctious and require extensive obedience and socialization training. There are certain breeds of dogs that are very well suited to be companions to the elderly. Here are a few of my recommendations.

Miniature or toy poodles are highly intelligent animals that love to be loved. They thoroughly enjoy and appreciate human attention and companionship. They require only a moderate amount of exercise and minimal grooming if there their hair is clipped short. They do not shed and are a great choice for people who suffer from allergies. They are lightweight and easy to lift or transport to the vet, and so on.

Chihuahuas are also great “lap” dogs who truly bond with their guardians and aim to please. They, too, are small and easily lifted and transportable and love being held or sitting in one’s lap. They are also good watchdogs.

Pugs are natural “clowns” who love to entertain and amuse as well as please their owners. They do tend to shed, but, of course, this can be controlled with regular grooming. They are very affectionate.

Malteses tend to be very sweet, loving and docile. They love to be pampered and are easily trained. Although they don’t shed, they do require regular brushing to keep their coats from becoming matted. They are also a good choice for those who have allergies.

Yorkshire Terriers are feisty, fun-loving, highly intelligent dogs that are very affectionate. Like the Maltese, they require brushing and grooming, but they do not shed and are good low-allergy dogs.

Boston terriers are gentle, friendly, playful dogs who have natural guardian instincts. They generally get along well with strangers as well as other pets. They are affectionate and love to be loved.

Pomeranians are very intelligent and resourceful. They are spunky and have a low need for exercise.

Schnauzers are very smart, energetic and feisty. They get along well with people of all ages including children and have happy and outgoing personalities. They require daily brushing and walking.

Shih-Tzu’s are sweet-tempered and extremely friendly. They make wonderful indoor dogs, require very little exercise. A daily walk will usually suffice. They have long hair that must be groomed regularly unless their hair is cut short.

There are many wonderful dogs that would make excellent companions for seniors. Those that I have described are small breeds that because of their size, weight, grooming and exercise needs, make them perfect pets for the elderly. However, having researched the breed of dog you feel is best suited to your personality and lifestyle, follow your heart. You will find the joyful and rich friendship and companionship you desire. Your life will be truly blessed and enriched by adopting the right dog for you!

Dr. Diane Pomerance

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Cozy evenings by the fireplace – snowy walks in the park and around the neighborhood. No matter how much fun the snow and cold may represent for you and your pet, there are hazards posing threats to your health as well as your dogs. Be aware that the cold weather may be injurious and hazardous to your pet’s well-being.

The winter season poses many challenges and potential problems to your pet’s animal companions. Slippery ice and snow may cause him to fall and injure himself. Salt on the ground used to deflect the ice’s impact may hurt or irritate his delicate paws. The icy cold air may pose such problems as frostbite as well as eye, ear, nose and throat infections. In below freezing temperatures, your pet’s ears, nose, feet and tail are likely to be impacted. You may see them limping or in pain and licking at the areas affected by the cold. It is a good idea to massage petroleum jelly into your pet’s paws foot pads before going outside and toweling off the feet and applying moisturizer to them once you are back inside. The changes in heating and temperatures indoors and outdoors may not only impact your pet’s breathing and heart rate but may cause allergic reactions as well. Do your best to shield your pets from wind, moisture and cold.

In the severe cold, your pet may experience hypothermia. Symptoms include weakness, shivering, shaking, disorientation and a lack of mental alertness. You may wish to dress your pet for cold weather. Pet coats, boots, booties, pet safe ice melters and hats are available for them among other apparel items to limit their exposure to the elements and retain as much body heat as possible.

Leaving pets by themselves in a vehicle or even the garage in cold temperatures is not advisable, especially if pets are not accustomed to being in the cold weather. Cars quickly become extremely cold when left unattended without the heat or motor on.

Antifreeze with its sweet smell and taste result in the death of approximately 90,000 animals each year. As little as 1/2 teaspoon can be toxic to a cat and merely 1/4 cup can kill a medium size dog. Therefore, do not leave antifreeze unattended or allow it to spill on the garage floor or anywhere your pet can find and consume it. If you observe your pet drinking any amount of antifreeze, take her to a veterinarian immediately!!!

Don’t allow your dog to go off-leash in the snow. Dogs often lose their scent in cold weather and can become lost. More dogs are reported lost during the winter than any other time of year. Always keep your dog on a leash and keep appropriate id with his name, address & phone number on his collar.

If your dogs enjoy swimming in a pond or lake, do not permit him to do so during the winter. Keep him on a leash around open water or unstable ice. The dog may fall in and be unable to find his way out. Hypothermia can set in quickly and may result in the death of the dog.

If you have a dog that is arthritic, make certain she does not spend much time outside in the cold and damp weather. Make sure she is receiving the medications that ease her pain and increase her mobility.

Pets need to have fresh water at all times – make sure your pets have water – NOT ICE – in their water bowls. Heated pet bowls offer a solution to frigid temperatures. They are available in stainless steel or plastic. You can find them at most pet supply and feed stores.

Keep your pet well-exercised in spite of the snow and cold. But do not keep him outside for long periods of time – especially when the weather is below 45%. Twenty minutes in the cold weather is plenty. Make an effort to play with and exercise him during the warmest period of the day and indoors as much as possible.

Although this winter has seemed excessively long, unforgiving and relentless, keep in mind, that spring will inevitably reappear and that life will become much easier and more joyful and pleasurable for you and your pet. In the meantime, do your best to keep yourselves and your pets, happy, well-exercised and comfortable!!!

Dog Behavior Specialist, Dr. Diane Pomerance

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Now that we’ve had the opportunity to get accustomed to the idea that we are living in 2011, it’s time to make plans not only for our own health and well-being, but the health and well-being of our animal companions. They are vulnerable and trusting and they depend on us for virtually all aspects of their lives and care. I have some suggestions for keeping your pet healthy and happy in the New Year and the foreseeable future

Make certain that your pet is current on her vaccines.

Schedule a physical exam for your pet. Before doing so, check her out yourself to determine if there are any unusual lumps, bumps, rashes swollen or painful areas of her body or if she is exhibiting any unusual behaviors. Bring these to the attention of your vet. Also, if appropriate, consult your vet about the advisability of testing or screening for potentially dangerous health issues.

Be sure that your pet has proper identification should she get lost or stolen. She should always wear a collar with a tag including her name, address, home and cell phone numbers.

Get your pet microchipped. Should she run away or get lost or stolen the chip can be scanned at countless veterinary clinics throughout the country and result in the recovery of your pet.

Get your pet spayed or neutered.

Groom and brush your pet often. Brush her teeth on a regular basis also – at least once a week.

Trim your pet’s nails on a regular basis.

Keep your pet well trained and socialized. A well-behaved pet is an ambassador for her breed and an asset to you, your family and community.

Provide your pets with a healthy diet and healthy treats. More natural and organic foods provide your pet with the proper nutrition they deserve. You and your veterinarian can determine an age appropriate diet and one that meets the special needs of your dog.

Keep your pet safe and secure in your car. Use a pet car seat, pet safety belt or pet barrier so that the pet cannot roam about, fall or distract you when you’re driving.

Exercise your pet regularly. At the very least, walk your pet three or four tines a day. You may also run, play fetch and hike with your dog.

Disaster preparedness is an issue that is also very important in light of Katrina and so many other natural as well as man-made disasters. Have a plan in place to protect your pet along with a survival kit for both you and your pet.

Most importantly, continue to bond and interact with your pet. You will find this friendship to be joyful, fulfilling and rewarding!

Dog Behavior Specialist, Dr. Diane Pomerance

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Welcome to the New Year. Our pets and we have “graduated” from 2010 to 2011. Here’s hoping that the New Year will be a joyous, healthy, happy, prosperous and peaceful one for our animal companions and us! May we share an ever-increasing life of love and joy with our pets!!!

Here are some resolutions we can make that may contribute to the health, happiness and well being of our pets and us. We envision a year of contentment with and commitment to our faithful and unconditionally loving companions. These are among my own resolutions:

1). I will give my pet dedicated, quality time and attention each and every day.

2). I will provide my pet with the playtime and interaction she requires each and everyday.

3). I will observe my pet closely and make an effort to discover and deal with any discernible changes in her appearance i.e. lumps, weight gain or loss, hair loss, change in digestive or elimination routine, any unusual odors or bad breath, soreness, pain, vomiting, bleeding, etc. and take her to the vet whenever I suspect something may be wrong with her.

4). I will keep my pet on a regular and healthy exercise regimen.

5). I will provide her with a nutritionally and age appropriate diet.

6). I will not indulge my pet with fatty foods or table scraps. I know they are not good for her overall health and well-being. I will reward her good behavior with verbal approval and hugs and petting.

7). I will teach and reinforce basic obedience and socialization commands – come, sit, stay, down, etc. I will encourage her friendly behavior with other dogs, cats and people by petting her and encouraging her verbally.

8). I will brush my pet’s teeth and make sure she receives regular dental care. Dental disease can be responsible for many other health issues.

9). I will engage in more bonding activities with my pet. I know that she is sentient and loves me unconditionally. She requires love, attention, appreciation and affection from me.

10). I will have fun with my dog – she and I will share many fun experiences and adventures together. I will take her for rides in the car and walks in the park and woods.
We will visit our human friends as well as our canine and feline companions.

Let’s plan many games and playmates. Let’s spend lots of quality fun times and experiences in 2011. Let’s share a joyous, fun-filled and loving New Year! Let us celebrate the New Year together!

Dog Behavior Specialist, Dr. Diane Pomerance

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According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, 39% of our pet population is over 7 years of age, which is generally the age at which a pet is regarded as senior. Veterinarians refer to pets as seniors when they enter the stage of life that signals the onset of decline – of their physical condition, mental functions, organ functions, sensory functions and immune response. Our animal companions experience many of the same symptoms and issues related to growing old as we do. However, today pets, like humans are living longer and healthier lives due to several factors: quality of life and improved healthcare.

 

An increasing number of people love and regard their pets as family members. and treat them accordingly paying attention to their nutritional needs, regular exercise, playtime and interaction, socialization and incorporating them into their daily lives and routine. Advanced veterinary care is also responsible for the increased longevity and quality of the lives of our aging and older animal companions.

 

A regular veterinary examination is an important means of assessing your pet’s overall health and well being. It is also important for you as your pet’s caregiver, to observe and keep track of signs or symptoms that suggest potential health problems. Some of the signs of possible illness are:

1). Decreased amount of activity; limited mobility;

2). Decreased appetite or complete lack of appetite;

3). Problems getting up from the seated or lie down position

4). Trouble walking or limping;

5) Weight loss or gain;

6). Increased or excessive water consumption;

7). Difficulty climbing stairs or jumping or getting down from a chair or bed;

8). Difficulty breathing, or panting heavily while at rest;

9). Drooling;

10) Vomiting;

11).Foul mouth odor;

12). New lumps, swollen areas, or bumps – or changes in existing ones

13). Changes in urination or defecation appearance and routine

14). Obvious pain or discomfort;

15). Seizures or convulsions;

16). Lethargy;

17). Lack of interest in people and activities around her;

18). Whining, moaning, squealing or moaning.

 

Pay attention to your pet and any changes in her overall physical activity or behaviors. Make a deliberate effort to examine her frequently. When you pet her, feel her for any possible lumps or swollen areas. If she winces or cries when you touch certain areas or emits unusual scents, it is wise to follow up with a visit to your vet.

 

If you are aware of any unusual conditions or behaviors, consult with your veterinarian and arrange to have your pet examined.as soon as possible. Early detection of any potential illness or health problem can improve your pet’s physical and mental health and prolong her life!

 

Dog Behavior Specialist,Dr. Diane Pomerance

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To prevent a trip to the vet ER and to keep you pet safe, healthy and Happy during Thanks- giving, simply say “No” to the following:

1). Turkey, duck, goose, pork, ham or beef bones

2). Stuffing made with onions

3). Rich gravy

4). Fatty scraps

5). Egg nag

6). Alcoholic beverages

7). Garlic mashed potatoes

8). Fruitcake

9). Desserts

10). Chocolate

11). Grapes or raisins

12). Aluminum foil or candy wrappers

13). Candy or ice cream

14) Lit candles, glass ornaments or other table decorations such as toothpicks or skewers that your pet can get hold of and ingest

15). Coffee or hot chocolate, rum or brandy “toddies”, etc.

16). Decorative plants like poinsettias or Xmas trees with pine needles

17). Herbs such as sage, rosemary or thyme

Have a safe and happy Thanksgiving! Stick to your pet’s dietary and exercise routine as much as possible. You are not doing him a favor by giving him rich or unusual treats with which he is not familiar!