Bandit's Buddies

Shame on Skechers

2012-01-27T16:02:00.001-05:00

Shame on Skechers: The mega-shoe company recently filmed its new Super Bowl ad at an Arizona Greyhound track. The soon-to-be-released ad features a small French Bulldog wearing Skechers sneakers and competing against Greyhounds at Tucson Greyhound Park. The small dog wins.

Unfortunately, we know the same cannot be said for racing Greyhounds. Just last month, GREY2K USA, with funding from the ASPCA, released a report detailing the horrific conditions of race dogs in Florida. Dogs are confined in small cages for 20 hours or more a day, often wearing muzzles; they are bred excessively in the quest for good runners, with the “excess” puppies killed or otherwise discarded; and they regularly endure serious and fatal injuries. Read the entire article

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Benefits of teaching your dog to sit...

2012-01-20T23:39:00.003-05:00

“Rambuctious, rumbustious, delinquent dogs become angelic when sitting” Dr. Ian Dunbar. From The Artful Dog (The Metropolitan Museum of Art, 2006.) I have often said, that if you teach your dog a really good sit, you can resolve so many behavioral issues. Dogs that sit when greeting people can't jump up on them! Dogs that sit before going outside are less likely to rush the door! Dogs that learn to sit to say "please" for treats, attention, meals, etc, learn self control.

Click here for the list of things your dog cannot do while sitting!

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Skechers: SuperBowl Ad

2012-01-08T07:13:00.001-05:00

Earlier this month, a TV crew was seen filming a commercial for Skechers shoes at Tucson Greyhound Park (TGP). Please join us in asking the company not to promote the cruelty of dog racing by using this footage.

At TGP, greyhounds are kept confined in small cages which are barely large enough for them to stand up or turn around. They are fed raw 4-D meat, the meat of downed, diseased, disabled or dead livestock. This was documented in a recent video investigation.

BellaWhile racing, greyhounds face the risk of serious injury. According to state records, between January 2007 and November 2009, nearly 1,000 greyhound injuries were reported at Arizona racetracks. Read the entire article

You may also wish to e-mail President Michael Greenberg and Vice President of Media Gary Patrick directly at michaelg@skechers.com and garyp@skechers.com, respectively.

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Like babies, dogs pick up on human intent...

2012-01-06T09:19:00.001-05:00

USA Today

Man's beloved four-legged friends not only respond to the words and ministrations of humans, dogs can understand and anticipate the intentions of their people, researchers are reporting.

Read the entire article

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On Shocking Our Dogs

2012-01-02T15:48:00.001-05:00

December 18th, 2011 by Trish King

Just because we can….doesn’t mean we should

I want to eat. Actually, I need to eat in order to survive. However, eating has become a battleground between my need for sustenance and my desire to avoid pain. At each mouthful, I could taste food, or an electric shock could hit the side of my face like a hot, burning, lightning bolt, causing me to gasp and pull back. But, often it doesn’t, in which case, I can take the next bite. But do I want to take the next bite? Need and pain fight each other. The end result is that I eat very carefully, one bite of soft food gently following another. I don’t snack and, while I can’t say I don’t enjoy my food (it still tastes good!) it comes at a price that is difficult to pay. This, by the way, is what happens when you have Trigeminal Neuralgia, a fairly rare condition that was once called “the suicide disease.”

What does this have to do with dogs and dog training? A lot, as it turns out. Read the entire article

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Retractable leashes pose problems

2011-12-16T04:08:00.001-05:00

Retractable leashes pose problems for people and their pets

Leash Heather Todd didn’t bring a leash with her the day she took her pooch Penny to a pond near Boston in 2005. So she borrowed a retractable dog leash to help keep her Labrador retriever in check. But it didn’t. The 90-pound dog suddenly took off running and dragged Todd across the sand.

When she came to a stop and recovered her wits, she spotted something lying on the sand. With horror, she realized it was a human index finger; with greater horror, she realized it was her own. The cord of the retractable leash had looped around her finger and pulled taut when Penny bolted.

“It just cut it off like a sharp knife,” Todd says. Read the entire article

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Iams Recall

2011-12-06T13:10:00.001-05:00

CINCINNATI, OH December 6, 2011 – The Procter & Gamble Company (P&G) has voluntarily retrieved a single production lot of dry dog food due to aflatoxin levels that were detected above the acceptable limit. This product has already been retrieved from store shelves. No illnesses have been reported in association with this production lot to date, and no other Iams pet food products are involved. The affected product lot was distributed to a limited number of retailers located in the eastern United States (AL, CT, DE, FL, GA, LA, MD, ME, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, PA, SC, VA). Click here for details

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What a Dog's Tail Wags Really Mean

2011-12-05T23:08:00.001-05:00

Science is always providing new information that allows us to interpret the behaviors of dogs, or to reinterpret behaviors which we thought we understood very well-such as the meaning of a dog's tail wagging.

Perhaps the most common misinterpretation of dogs is the myth that a dog wagging its tail is happy and friendly. While some wags are indeed associated with happiness, others can mean fear, insecurity, a social challenge or even a warning that if you approach, you are apt to be bitten.

Read the entire article

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Puppies Make Bad Holiday Gift Ideas

2011-11-26T08:01:00.000-05:00

This (Black) Friday, millions of shoppers will descend upon brick-and-mortar and Internet retailers, all in pursuit of the perfect gift at the right prices. Right or wrong, there’s no question that this is a season for consumerism at its best, characterized by lavish gifts.

This holiday season, I’d like to share with you my Christmas wish for dogs: Don’t buy your friends, family member, or significant other a dog or puppy for the holidays. A recent article from the Huffington Post summarizes the results of a recent AP poll on dog ownership. Approximately 40 percent of respondents said that at least one of their current pets was given to them as a gift.

Read the entire article

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Comments on “Alpha” Dominance Theory

2011-11-21T07:33:00.003-05:00

From: www.whole-dog-journal.com

There is a growing body of information available to anyone who wants to learn more about why dominance theory is so outdated and incorrect. Here are 10 resources to get you started:
Read the entire article

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New FDA Warning on Chicken Jerky

2011-11-18T21:02:00.002-05:00

November 18, 2011

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is again cautioning consumers that chicken jerky products for dogs (also sold as chicken tenders, strips or treats) may be associated with illness in dogs. In the last 12 months, FDA has seen an increase in the number of complaints it received of dog illnesses associated with consumption of chicken jerky products imported from China. These complaints have been reported to FDA by dog owners and veterinarians.

FDA issued a cautionary warning regarding chicken jerky products to consumers in September 2007 and a Preliminary Animal Health Notification in December of 2008. After seeing the number of complaints received drop off during the latter part of 2009 and most of 2010, the FDA is once again seeing the number of complaints rise to the levels of concern that prompted release of our earlier warnings.

Chicken jerky products should not be substituted for a balanced diet and are intended to be fed occasionally in small quantities.

FDA is advising consumers who choose to feed their dogs chicken jerky products to watch their dogs closely for any or all of the following signs that may occur within hours to days of feeding the products: decreased appetite; decreased activity; vomiting; diarrhea, sometimes with blood; increased water consumption and/or increased urination. If the dog shows any of these signs, stop feeding the chicken jerky product. Owners should consult their veterinarian if signs are severe or persist for more than 24 hours. Blood tests may indicate kidney failure (increased urea nitrogen and creatinine). Urine tests may indicate Fanconi syndrome (increased glucose). Although most dogs appear to recover, some reports to the FDA have involved dogs that have died.

Read the entire article

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Thanksgiving Treat for Your Dog

2011-11-16T21:37:00.003-05:00

It's that time of year...time for sweet potatoes! If you are out shopping for Thanksgiving dinner, be sure and pick up some extra sweet potatoes to make a homemade, yummy, healthy treat for your dog!

Click here for the recipe

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Cats and Carriers

2011-11-06T07:15:00.003-05:00

Just like us here at Pet Airways, our partners at the Association of Pet Dog Trainers love cats just as much as dogs. Here, APDT shares expert advice on how to teach your cat that a carrier is a cool place to be. Hopefully, these tips will prove helpful for your next cat-friendly travels.

For many cat lovers, Kitty is as much a part of the family as everyone else. When it comes to travel, bringing dogs along is a common thing, but our feline friends are often overlooked. Ever wish your cat could be your carry-on?

Below are a few, simple tips for teaching your cat that a carrier is a safe, enjoyable place. Read the entire article

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2011 Vaccine Guidelines from AAHA

2011-10-27T10:16:00.002-04:00

The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) Canine Vaccination Task Force has updated their vaccination guidelines for 2011.

According to AAHAnet.org:

Developed in a manner consistent with best vaccination practices, the 2011 Guidelines include expert opinions supported by scientific study, published and unpublished documents, and encompass all canine vaccines currently licensed in the U.S. and Canada. The task force that developed the guidelines included experts in immunology, infectious diseases, internal medicine, law, and clinical practice.

Read the entire article

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Pet Safety Tips for Halloween

2011-10-26T06:41:00.001-04:00

Unfortunately, the pets aren’t consulted about Halloween. Just take out the costume, and many cats are under a bed or run off in the other direction. To dress up a cat for a quick photo isn’t too bad if he’s willing to get into the costume without too much of a struggle. You can reward kitty for his patience with a few special treats. As for canines, some look totally humiliated wearing costume – and that’s likely because they are. However, other dogs seem to relish the attention, enjoying being fussed over. Read more

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Bite Inhibition

2011-10-18T08:48:00.002-04:00

"Without a doubt, teaching bite inhibition is the single most important item on the educational agenda of any pup." Read the entire article

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Halloween Safety Tips

2011-10-12T06:29:00.001-04:00

No Scaredy Cats This Halloween: Top 10 Safety Tips for Pet Parents

Attention, animal lovers, it's almost the spookiest night of the year! The ASPCA recommends taking some common sense precautions this Halloween to keep you and your pet saying "trick or treat!" all the way to November 1. Read the entire article

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20 Ways to Help Dogs in Need

2011-10-07T06:28:00.001-04:00

A well-known quote by Gandhi that says, “Be the change you want to see in the world.” So many of us are dismayed when we hear stories about dogs in need. We want to help, but how best to do that can be daunting. I’d like to share some ideas with you. The offerings in this post are fairly concrete and straightforward. In a future post I’ll offer more creative ideas. Read the entire article

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Nature's Sunshine Sale This Week!

2011-09-25T08:31:00.004-04:00

Please click on our sale page this week to see all the amazing specials! On sale through September 30th:

Calcium-Magesium, SynerPro® (150 tabs)
Proactazyme® (100 caps)
Probiotic Eleven ® (90 caps)
Yeast/Fungal Detox (90 caps)
Immune Stimulator (90 caps)

Click here to see what's on sale?

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Dog Training Set Back in the UK

2011-09-22T11:57:00.001-04:00

BBC One’s The One Show has been instrumental in causing a major setback for the UK’s previously highly-respected attitudes towards family dogs.

Last Friday the show featured a new segment called ‘Fix my Dog’ during which viewers were appalled to witness a small Terrier supposedly being ‘trained’ by the show’s ‘Dog Fixer’. Jordan Shelley, who has no documented history of training experience nor qualifications, repeatedly pushed his foot towards the dog and on several occasions pushed his foot into the dog’s mouth. This was justified, according to Shelley, in an effort to ‘invade the dog’s space’. The dog was provoked to bite on numerous occasions indicating extreme distress and fear behaviours that have all been widely documented and reported by the nation’s and international dog experts both on Facebook, Twitter and many blogs on this matter.

Read the entire article

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Overweight Pets

2011-09-11T08:28:00.000-04:00

"...Just like humans, pets are getting fatter. Fifty-four percent of dogs and cats are overweight or obese, reports the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention. The most common side effects are osteoarthritis; insulin resistance and Type 2 diabetes, primarily in cats; high blood pressure; heart and respiratory diseases; and joint problems..." Read the entire article

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9/11 Canine Heroes Honored

2011-09-11T00:29:00.004-04:00

During the chaos of the 9/11 attacks, where almost 3,000 people died, nearly 100 loyal search and rescue dogs and their brave owners scoured Ground Zero for survivors.
Now, ten years on, just 12 of these heroic canines survive, and they have been commemorated in a touching series of portraits entitled 'Retrieved'.

The dogs worked tirelessly to search for anyone trapped alive in the rubble, along with countless emergency service workers and members of the public. Read the entire article

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Thank Your Dog for Growling!

2011-09-08T08:26:00.001-04:00

Dobie started growling at children while on walks. On a recommendation by his vet, his concerned owner brought him to see a trainer who followed traditional training methods. Here she was taught to correct Dobie's growling by giving a short, quick yank on a choke collar and saying "No!" After a week or so of following this advice, she was very happy to see that Dobie had stopped growling at children.

And then a while later, a child ran up to the dog while on a walk and reached out her hand to pet him. Because Dobie didn't growl, the child was not hesitant and the owner was not concerned. Suddenly Dobie turned and bit the child's hand. His owner described this incident later as "It happened out of nowhere!"

Growling is a valuable warning signal. Read the entire article

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Protecting Your Dog Against Parvo

2011-09-05T08:20:00.001-04:00

by: Karen Becker, DVM

According to Examiner.com, many communities across the U.S. are reporting an upswing in the number of cases of parvovirus in puppies and young dogs.

An increase in parvo cases during warmer months (when pets are outside more) is not uncommon. But pet owners need to understand the disease poses a life-threatening risk to unprotected dogs, especially puppies. Read the entire article

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Aloe Vera

2011-08-31T18:36:00.003-04:00

Aloe Vera is on sale this week for $2.00 off a single bottle or buy 4, get one free.

Many companies manufacture aloe vera, but most products on the market have lost much of the plant’s original benefits due to over-processing. Beware of aloe vera juice that claims to have no disagreeable taste. Removing this taste can leave you with a product that is only 10–15 percent aloe vera at best.

NSP aloe vera is processed in a special way to avoid the loss of essential vitamins, minerals and other constituents. The leaf is filleted; then the green outer portion that contains aloin is removed, leaving the gel that remains in the leaf. The gel remains thick when the leaf is first cut, but after a few minutes, an enzymatic reaction causes it to become liquid and freely run out. It is this 100 percent pure liquid that NSP collects. To prevent bacterial contamination, we add sodium benzoate as a preservative. Sodium benzoate is effective in very small quantities, and it properly and safely preserves aloe vera juice.

Benefits:

•Nourishes the digestive and intestinal systems.
•Soothes the internal tissues of the digestive and intestinal tracts.
•Contains vitamins, minerals and other important nutrients.
•May be used topically to moisturize and tone skin.

Click here for more information

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Dog Thefts

2011-08-31T06:33:00.003-04:00

Since 2007 the AKC has been tracking dog, based on customer and media reports, stolen from owners’ cars, homes and yards among other places. The fact is that for the first seven months of 2011 we’ve tracked a shocking 49% increase in pet thefts nationwide over the same period last year.

Why this sudden uptick in stolen dogs?
Read the entire article

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Dogs: Nail Trimming!

2011-08-29T16:32:00.002-04:00

The Nail Wars

Poor dogs. Some of us think getting a manicure is akin to heaven, but for dogs, getting their nails done is more often like going to hell. I was thinking about this last night while I was working with Willie on nails that grow extra long and extra fast because of his restricted exercise. I just switched him over to a “grinder” (Oster Grinder or Dremel, mine is an Oster) and asked myself this question: “What took me so long?” I used the Oster on both Pippy Tay and Lassie for years and with great success, but was a tad lazy about conditioning Willie to it until now. Although I’ve only cut into the quick of one of his nails one time, (and then not badly — but still, I hate it when that happens) and have used buckets of treats while trimming his nails, Willie clearly hated having his nails trimmed and seemed to more and more as the years went on.

Read the entire article

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Dog Training Statistics

2011-08-15T06:43:00.000-04:00

Created by Pet365 - , Click here to view the full post.

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Caring for Senior Pets

2011-08-11T06:52:00.001-04:00

A relationship with a companion animal can be one of the most rewarding experiences we humans encounter in our lifetimes. In the last 20 years, medical science has repeatedly shown that having a dog or cat in your life can result in health benefits for you, including improved, self-reported mental and physical health, and even fewer doctor visits compared to no-pet people. Additionally, caring for pets can help us to develop a greater sense of responsibility, elevate our own sense of self-worth and foster a mutually beneficial bond that enriches not only our lives but those of our pets, too.

If you have ever enjoyed the distinct pleasures of having a senior dog, you know that they tend to be well-behaved, without the boundless energy (and chew-everything tendencies) of puppies, which, quite frankly, can sometimes be exhausting. For these and many other reasons, senior dogs can make excellent companions for senior citizens. Read the entire article

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Merrick Recall - Doggie Wishbone

2011-08-09T10:33:00.002-04:00

Merrick Pet Care Recalls
Doggie Wishbone (Item # 29050, Lot 11031 Best By 30 Jan 2013)

Because of Possible Salmonella Health Risk

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - August 8, 2011 - Merrick Pet Care, Inc. of Amarillo, Texas is recalling a single lot of its Doggie Wishbone pet treat (ITEM # 29050, UPC # 2280829050, Lot 11031 Best By 30 Jan 2013) because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella. Merrick Pet Care has made the decision to recall the Doggie Wishbone pet treats in the abundance of caution. 248 cases of this lot were manufactured and shipped to distributors in 10 states. Those distributors have been notified. Only one lot of Doggie Wishbone is affected by this recall. No additional Merrick Pet Care products are involved in this recall. No other Merrick brand products are involved. Read the entire article

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Fleas!

2011-08-04T06:59:00.001-04:00

If you’ve experienced problems with fleas, or if your dog or cat is itchy, ask the following questions …

Do you live in a warm, humid environment? Or, has it been unusually warm for the past three weeks?

Under warm, humid conditions, a flea can complete its life cycle in only three weeks. Fleas have four life stages: egg, larvae, pupae and adult. Fleas take up residence in carpets and bedding, and when stimulated by vibrations, carbon dioxide or heat, adults hatch and seek out a host in your dog or cat. Upon transferral to your companion animal’s skin and coat, a flea can live for a year or more.

Have you just moved into a new home? Did animals live there before you?

If so, beware! There may be large numbers of flea eggs and larvae lurking in the carpet just waiting to hatch.

Has your companion animal recently started scratching and biting herself, often relentlessly? Does your dog have inflamed sores or evidence of hair loss, usually around the base of tail and lower back? Has your cat recently pulled out small clumps of hair, experienced unexplanable hair loss, or suffer from bumpy scabs, usually in the tummy area?

If the answer to any of these questions is “yes”, your pet is likely suffering from an attack of the fleas. Furthermore, your dear companion may also have a flea allergy, developing hot spots or skin infections as secondary symptoms. Read the entire article

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Dog Days of Summer

2011-08-03T10:50:00.003-04:00

Newsbite
Aug 3, 2011

8 Ways to Beat the Heat
Our guide to surviving the dog days of summer. Click here to read the article

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Purina Cat Food Recall

2011-08-02T07:16:00.003-04:00

Nestlé Purina Recalls Limited Number of Purina ONE Vibrant Maturity 7+ Dry Cat Food Bags Due to a Potential Health Risk

Consumer Contact: Nestlé Purina PetCare Office of Consumer Affairs: 1-800-982-6559
Media Contact: Keith Schopp – 314-982-2577
St. Louis, Missouri, July 29, 2011

Nestle` Purina PetCare Company (NPPC) is voluntarily recalling a limited number of 3.5- and 7-pound bags of its Purina ONE Vibrant Maturity 7+ Dry Cat Food from a single production run and shipped to customers in 12 states in December 2010. This is being done because some bags of the product have been found to be contaminated with Salmonella. Only Purina ONE Vibrant Maturity 7+ Dry Cat Food with both the "Best By" date and the production code shown are included in this voluntary recall:

Click here for details

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Do Pets Have Psychic Abilities?

2011-08-02T06:51:00.001-04:00

Have you ever wondered whether or not your companion animal has psychic abilities? While some might scoff at the idea, many are convinced that this is certainly the case.

Over the years, I’ve heard so many stories of animals exhibiting behaviors that seem as though they might fall within this realm of experience. For example, did you know that during the massive tsunami in December of 2004, scores of elephants in Sri Lanka, Sumatra and Thailand moved to higher ground before the destructive waves struck land? There were even reports of buffalo grazing by the beach in Thailand who lifted their heads in unison, stared out to sea and then stampeded up into the hills. Most, if not all of the villagers who followed the lead of these animals were saved. How did these elephants and buffalos know what was coming? Did they pick up on slight tremors that seismologists themselves were not able to detect? If so, why was it only the animals in low-lying coastal areas who exhibited strange behavior and not the rest of the animals in Southeast Asia?

Read the entire article

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Traveling without your pet this Summer?

2011-07-30T06:47:00.002-04:00

One of America’s favorite summer pastimes is vacation travel. Often, these trips do not or cannot include our pets, so what do you do with your beloved companion when you cannot take them along? The most important thing is to not worry - the more we worry the less fun we have. Here are some of Dr. Sarah’s favorite tips to help your animals when you travel. Click here to watch the video

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Pet Fire Alert

2011-07-27T06:31:00.002-04:00

A Griffin firefighter has created a way for homeowners to let first responders know there are pets in a home.

Called Pet Fire Alert, the product developed by Griffin Fire-Rescue Battalion Chief Rick Rickerson is an outdoor information system to alert emergency personnel that a pet is in a home. He based it on his training and personal experience.

Standard firefighter protocol calls for the incident commander to walk around a home looking for clues regarding the fire and number of occupants and to locate the electric meter to turn off the power for firefighter and occupant safety.

Rickerson said, “I suggest (homeowners) mount (the system) on the wall by the meter.”

The container contains information such as the number of pets, type of animals and areas to search, as well as a couple of leashes to secure rescued pets and contact information for care for the animals. There are also signs for the mailbox and a yard sign similar to burglar alarm signs. Read the entire article

Click here to read more about the product

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MRSA and Pets

2011-07-24T06:37:00.001-04:00

We've heard a lot about MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureusproduce) mainly as it affects people. It also affects companion animals. But there's no need to panic. If you have a healthy dog or cat, there is little chance of your pet being infected with MRSA. Even if your pet does have MRSA, caught in time, it will survive with proper diagnosis and treatment.

We are learning more about MRSA thanks to Jill Moss, Founder and President of The Bella Moss Foundation in the U.K. Her rescue dog, Bella, developed MRSA following cruciate surgery. Sadly, it was not properly diagnosed and Bella ran through a complete spectrum of antibiotics to no avail. When Jill lost Bella to MRSA she decided that this would not happen to anyone else's pet. Since 2004, the non-profit foundation has worked with veterinarians, the U.K. government and the International Society for Companion Animal Infectious Diseases--and is making a good start at doing the same in the U.S.--to educate and inform vets, pet owners and pet caregivers about MRSA.

"Pet owners need to know that although MRSA and other resistant infections can be very serious--even fatal--they can, if detected early enough, be treated successfully," says Moss. MRSA is not a death sentence.

It's important for pet owners to ensure that their pets receive the correct course of treatment. Just as in people, overuse of antibiotics in pets can cause antibiotic strains of microorganisms to evolve. Talk with your veterinarian on a case-by-case basis regarding the use of antibiotics to ensure that they're used responsibly.

Read the entire article

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Summer Safety

2011-07-19T09:02:00.001-04:00

By: Steve Dale

On July 4, Maya Webb, of Bettendorf, IA, went shopping at a Joliet, IL, furniture store. Unfortunately, leaving her two Pit Bulls in the car. It was "only" 81 degrees, and she was barely gone for two hours, but both dogs suffered heat stroke and died. Webb was charged with aggravated cruelty to animals, a Class 4 Felony.

"Dogs are locked inside hot cars all the time," says Dr. Mark Russak, president-elect of the American Animal Hospital Association. "Even opening the windows a bit isn't enough. I've actually smashed windows to let dogs out to breathe. I don't recommend window smashing, but I just did what was necessary."

Dr. Sheldon Rubin, in Chicago, IL adds, "These days, most police departments will respond because there are laws in many places about leaving children or pets in hot cars. Sometimes it's better to run an errand and simply not bring your pet with you."

According to the AAA Chicago Motor Club, when it's 85 degrees outdoors, even when a car's windows are open a crack, on a sunny day the dashboard can heat up to 170 degrees in less than 15 minutes. What's more, dogs don't cool themselves as effectively as people. Panting just isn't as efficient as sweating (though dogs do sweat some from their paw pads).

Read the entire article

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Douxo Seborrhea Shampoo - FDA Warning

2011-07-16T19:47:00.002-04:00

FDA Issues Caution to Pet Owners with the Use of an Unapproved Pet Shampoo Product
May 13, 2011

The FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine is alerting pet owners to use caution with the use of an unapproved animal drug product, Douxo Seborrhea Shampoo (0.1% phytosphingosine), distributed by Sogeval Laboratories, Inc. of Coppell, Texas after recently receiving a report of the death of a woman associated with the use of the product on her dog.

The March adverse event report describes a woman with severe, preexisting asthma who had a sudden, severe asthma attack and died while bathing a dog using the product, Douxo Seborrhea Shampoo. A few days later, another asthmatic family member bathed the dog using the same product and experienced a mild asthma attack but recovered.

FDA is advising consumers with asthma or other respiratory conditions to consider consulting with their physicians prior to use of this product.

FDA is currently investigating this serious issue and will provide additional information as appropriate.

Read the entire article

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THE DOG WHISPERER CONTROVERSY

2011-07-13T13:22:00.004-04:00

There has always been controversy regarding the "dog whisperer" flawed philosophy.

I came across an excellent article. It's well worth the read. Permission is granted to link to the writer's blog. Click here to read the entire article

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4th of July Tips to Keep from Having a Lost Pet!

2011-07-01T12:38:00.002-04:00

The 4th of July is a time to celebrate independence, enjoy barbeques and watch fireworks light up the sky. Sadly, it is the #1 day in which pets get lost and end up in shelters. Chances are, a high-kill shelter.

Many celebrations in the Chicago area begin before the 4th of July, so it is important to use caution even days before the holiday.

From dogs to cats and even horses, this is typically not a time of year that animals feel safe. The loud noises of fireworks spark, no pun intended, fear into animals.

Keeping identification on your pets during this time of year is extremely important. Make sure all tags have a current address, phone number and email. If your pet is micro-chipped, make sure that you have let your pet recovery service know if there have been any changes since the microchip was placed.

Read the entire article

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Jerky Treats - Kidney Disease

2011-06-26T09:14:00.002-04:00

Alert: Jerky treats possibly associated with kidney disease in dogs in Canada
www.avma.org
June 22, 2011

Background:

In September 2007, the AVMA issued an alert that stated we had been receiving calls from veterinarians reporting Fanconi syndrome-like disease in dogs that appeared to be associated with the consumption of chicken jerky treats made in China. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) was alerted and investigated the complaints, but testing of the products did not identify any toxins or contaminants. The AVMA continued to receive occasional reports of suspected cases through February 2009.

On June 15, 2011, the AVMA received notification from the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) that they have received reports that mirror the cases reported in 2007. The AVMA issued an alert to its members on June 16, informing them of the situation in Canada and recommending vigilance for any suspected cases in the U.S. The AVMA also issued an alert on June 17 to the state veterinary medical associations and allied organizations represented in the AVMA House of Delegates.

The information below is what we currently do and do not know about this situation. We will update this page as more information becomes available.

Read the entire article

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Tips for Take Your Dog to Work Day 6/24/11

2011-06-23T18:19:00.001-04:00

OrlandoSentinel.com

If you’re planning to participate in Take Your Dog to Work Day on Friday, June 24, or if you plan to take your pet to work any other time, you might want to consider some suggestions from the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters.

“The unfamiliar office environment can place stress on pets, and introduce them to allergens, diseases, fleas and ticks from other four-legged visitors,” said NAPPS president John D’Ariano. “In light of these potential safety threats, the pet’s well-being should be carefully considered before placing him in the office setting.”
Here’s a checklist from NAPPS:

Is your pet prepared for the commute to work? Consult with your veterinarian or a professional pet sitter about anxiety-relieving tactics and medicine if necessary.

Is your dog likely to bark when placed in a new situation? Consider how your pet will react to new faces and other dogs in the workplace, and identify a safe place to retreat should the environment become hectic.

Show courtesy to your coworkers by asking if they have allergies before the event.

Create a plan for feeding, walking and relieving your pet throughout the day.

Make sure your pet is up-to-date on vaccinations, flea and tick treatments before entering the office.

Keep your pet away from other pets’ water bowls, because this can spread illness and disease.

Identify a coworker willing to care for your pet should you be called into an extended meeting or phone call.

Read the entire article

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Tips for Adopting Shelter Dogs

2011-06-23T17:49:00.002-04:00

(CNN) -- The shelter dog is often perceived as unpredictable and inferior to one that is bought from a pricey breeder or a pet store. The thought of giving a home to a dog with an unknown history also puts many people off. But while some dogs are relinquished to shelters because of problem behavior, most are surrendered because of a change in the family situation.

Shelters can be overwhelming places to visit, so give yourself time when going through the adoption process and make decisions with your head as well as your heart.

Because stress levels can be high in such an environment, dogs tend to exhibit behavior that does not reflect their true personality. Don't be put off by a dog that stays at the back of the kennel too tired or nervous to greet you, or by the dog that leaps at the kennel door like a lunatic as you walk past. Remember these dogs may behave very differently once out of confinement. Read the entire article

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How to Calm a Dog Afraid of Fireworks

2011-06-21T06:23:00.001-04:00

Usually being afraid of fireworks means the dog is afraid of other loud sounds, such as thunder, drill saws and even vacuum cleaners. Dogs who were never afraid of sounds before can suddenly become sound sensitive as they grow older.

There are three steps to do now to calm a dog afraid of fireworks.

Desensitize at least a week prior to fireworks. Pair good things with sound sensitivities.

Use calming tools such as music, a thundershirt and a safe place.

Dogs intensely afraid of fireworks and other loud sounds may have had a bad experience connected to the sound, are highly sensitive or view the sound as a part of the environment to fear.

Stress signals include panting, trying to escape, pacing, drooling, hiding, tail tucked, head down and even irritability. Read the entire article

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June 24 - Take Your Dog to Work Day!

2011-06-18T08:38:00.001-04:00

Pet Sitters International’s Take Your Dog To Work Day® is right around the corner on June 24. Businesses across the country will open their doors to employees’ furry, four-legged best friends to celebrate the great companions dogs make and to promote pet adoption. Pet Sitters International (PSI), event creator, and 2011 event partner the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT) provide pet owners seven tips to ensure a successful office visit: Read the entire article

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Teaching Your Dog to Swim

2011-06-17T11:19:00.001-04:00

By Mike Celizic

There are certain things we assume dogs know by instinct. Sniffing, for instance, sometimes in embarrassing places. Barking, too, and begging for food scraps are also downloaded onto dogs’ internal computers at the factory.

Then there’s swimming. It seems so integral to being a dog that we’ve even named a stroke after them, the dog-paddle — so you’d assume that’s another thing that every dog is born knowing how to do.

It turns out that you’d be wrong. Read the entire article

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Dogs can instinctively sense a friendly face

2011-06-15T09:39:00.001-04:00

It is what many dog owners have long suspected – their pets can read their personalities and know instinctively who is more likely to be friendly or give them a treat. Read the entire article

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How Dogs Think and Learn

2011-06-11T10:06:00.002-04:00

Canine Connection: Study Explores How Dogs Think and Learn About Human Behavior

ScienceDaily (June 9, 2011) — Dog owners often attest to their canine companion's seeming ability to read their minds. How do dogs they learn to beg for food or behave badly primarily when we're not looking? According to Monique Udell and her team, from the University of Florida in the US, the way that dogs come to respond to the level of people's attentiveness tells us something about the ways dogs think and learn about human behavior. Their research, published online in Springer's journalLearning & Behavior, suggests it is down to a combination of specific cues, context and previous experience. Read the entire article

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Suit Alleges Heartgard Cover Up

2011-06-09T09:05:00.001-04:00

The maker of Heartgard Plus, a heartworm drug used by millions of dog owners, "extortionately fired" its head of "global head of pharmacovigilance" after she refused to destroy documents questioning the drug's effectiveness, the Ph.D. claims in federal court.

In her suit against Merial LLC, the animal drug division of Sanofi Aventis, Dr. Kari Blaho-Owens says that she was hired in 2006 after the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) expressed concern about reports of Heartgard Plus being ineffective in preventing heartworm in dogs.

Blaho-Owens said that after reviewing the situation, she became aware that Merial had known of the problem since at least 2002 but had done nothing to update its labeling to specify that Heartgard Plus was not 100 percent effective in preventing heartworm.

Read the entire article

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Pig Ear Recall

2011-06-07T10:18:00.002-04:00

Contact:
866.922.9222
www.bravorawdiet.com

Media:David Bogner
Phone: 866.922.9222

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - June 3, 2011 – Bravo! is voluntarily recalling select boxes of Bravo! Pig Ears Chews because it has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella. The products affected by this recall includes only Bravo! 50 ct bulk Oven roasted Pig Ears Product Code: 75-121 Lot # 12-06-10.

Salmonella can affect animals and there is a risk to humans from handling contaminated pet products, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the chews or any other surfaces exposed to these products.

Read the entire article

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Dominance Aggression

2011-06-07T08:55:00.004-04:00

By: Sophia Yin, DVM

Do you have a dog that you think has dominance aggression? A dog who's confident and aggressive over many types of resources? As the top dog, he's outgoing and rarely shows fear postures or what one might call "apologetic" behavior. One moment he's as charming as a Casanova on a first date. The next minute he's throwing more barks and bites than Mike Tyson at a pre-fight press conference. If so, read on

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Promeris - Discontinued

2011-05-31T10:03:00.004-04:00

Madison, N.J. — Pfizer will discontinue distribution of ProMeris, a topical veterinary flea-and-tick treatment for dogs and cats, by fall, the company tells DVM Newsmagazine. “It currently doesn’t fit within the strategic animal-health portfolio,” explains Joseph Donner, a spokesman for Pfizer.

ProMeris was launched by Fort Dodge in the fall 2007 and was touted as the first spot-on topical using the active ingredient metaflumizone. ProMeris for Dogs also was indicated for the control of Demodectic mange mites and chewing lice. Read the entire article

*******************

"A recent groundbreaking study of clinical, histological and immunological data of 22 cases of Pemphigus foliaceus, or PF, shows evidence that it can occur as an adverse drug reaction to the canine flea and tick preventive ProMeris." Read the entire article

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Thai Go - Great Sale!

2011-05-26T19:23:00.005-04:00

Thai-Go® (2/25 fl oz) Buy 3 get 25% off
One special per order-Available May 25-27 only!

Thai-Go® [Vital Nutrition, Immune] is a blend of the most healthful fruits and nutritional supplements from all over the world. Thai-Go is replete with xanthones, bioflavonoids and powerful antioxidants.

Bioflavonoids contribute to the bright colors of fruits and vegetables. In the body, bioflavonoids enhance vitamin C absorption and help maintain collagen and capillary walls. They also aid in the body’s immune–defense system.

Antioxidants scavenge the free radicals that the body accumulates as a byproduct of energy production as well as through pollution, tobacco smoke, ultraviolet light and radiation. Antioxidants benefit virtually every organ and body system because they mop up damaging free radicals. Thai-Go delivers a punch of antioxidant potential with a very high ORAC value.

Among Thai-Go’s key ingredients is mangosteen, a tasty fruit found in eastern tropical nations, such as Thailand. Mangosteen and its pericarp contain the greatest known supply of compounds called xanthones.

Xanthones offer powerful immune and cardiovascular support. Other ingredients in this nutritious juice include concord and red grape, blueberry, red raspberry, red grape skin, wolfberry/gogi fruit, açai berry, pomegranate, sea buckthorn, red grape seed, green tea and apple fruit. Click here to order

Remember: You must be a Member to purchase product specials. Get a FREE 1 year membership with a $40 purchase (Member Cost).

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Retaining Ovaries May Be A Key To Prolonged Life

2011-05-24T09:00:00.000-04:00

FROM DVM NEWSMAGAZINE

West Lafayette, Ind. — We know that women tend to live longer than men, but a new study shows that the same may be true in dogs, especially if a female dog’s ovaries are not surgically removed early in life.

A study conducted at the Gerald P. Murphy Cancer Foundation compared the medical histories, ages and causes of death in 119 long-lived rottweilers with a longevity of at least 13 years with 186 rottweilers with a normal longevity of about 9 years. The study was published in the December issue of the journal Aging Cell.

“Like women, female dogs in our study had a distinct survival advantage over males,” said the lead researcher David J. Waters, associate director of Purdue University’s Center on Aging and the Life Course and a professor in the Department of Clinical Sciences. “But taking away ovaries during the first four years of life completely erased the female survival advantage.

Read the entire article

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PupQuest - Be Puppy Savvy

2011-05-22T02:56:00.006-04:00

I came across a gem of a site and just had to share with with all of Bandit's Blog Buddies out there. If you are looking to get a dog - whether from a breeder or via adoption from a rescue group, please look this site over:

"Let us guide you on your quest for a happy, healthy puppy from a responsible source!

Many people are unknowingly buying or adopting sick and under-socialized puppies. This reality causes human heartbreak and animal suffering. It is costly, both emotionally and financially.

The choices YOU make NOW will maximize the chances that your new pup will be happy and healthy. "

Click here to go to PupQuest website

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Why Fido Snaps at Friendly People

2011-05-21T03:06:00.001-04:00

By: Dr. Sophia Yin

The main problem here usually is that Fido didn't have enough positive experiences with a variety of unfamiliar people during his sensitive period for socialization and beyond. From three weeks to three months of age, puppies are primed to explore and form bonds. Such that if they meet and greet all types of people in many types of environments and good things happen to them simultaneously, they generalize to understand that people overall are friendly. Then if this socialization continues through their adolescence, the relaxed demeanor around people becomes part of their overall personality. Those dogs who didn't get the type and amount of experiences they needed given their individual genetic make-up and early experience can end up being fearful around some or all unfamiliar people.

Read the entire article

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Dog Bite Prevention Week: Taking Responsibility

2011-05-20T08:23:00.001-04:00

With 78 million pet dogs in the United States and a nearly 50 billion dollar pet care industry, it's clear that Americans love their pets. It's National Dog Bite Prevention Week, which brings to light one solemn fact: In spite of the adoration we have for our pooches, over 4.5 million people -- both adults and kids -- are bitten by dogs every year. Nearly a million of these bite cases are severe enough to warrant treatment in a hospital.

Read the entire article

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Cats and Countertops

2011-05-20T04:20:00.002-04:00

Cats become pests with their determination to stay above it all. They cruise kitchen countertops, lounge atop doors and leap to refrigerator tops to ambush treats.

The urge to be the top cat seems a universal cat vice. By understanding why cats scale the heights, cat owners can provide legal outlets that keep both their cats happy and out of the butter dish.

Why Cats Love Heights
Cats come pre-programmed to seek elevated lounging spots. Think about it: cats in the wild want to see enemies (and potentially munchable critters) while remaining invisible. A cat quite literally believes it "owns" the space it can see.

Cats also control each other's interactions--or even the dog's movements--with pointed stares. This packs even more punch from an elevated perch, giving the cat ownership and control over even more territory. The cat that commands the highest perch is the high-cat-on-the-totem-pole in that particular room.

Read the entire article

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Evanger's Dog Food in the News - Again

2011-05-19T11:35:00.005-04:00

Evanger's has received a letter from the FDA. Below is an excerpt:

Under Section 403(b) of the FD&C Act, 21 U.S.C. 343(b), a food is deemed to be misbranded if it is offered for sale under the name of another food. This product was offered for sale under the name of (b)(4) Lamb and Rice Dog Food. However, the analytical sample results did not detect the presence of lamb, but detected the presence of bovine material.

Under Section 403(a)(1) of the FD&C Act, 21 U.S.C. 343(a)(1), a food is deemed to be misbranded if its labeling is false or misleading in any particular. The labeling indicates that Evangers Grain-free Duck Pet Food contains duck, but the analytical sample results did not detect the presence of duck in the product.

Read the entire FDA letter
Press release from 2008 incident with Evanger's
Information on 2009 incident at Evanger's

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How well can you read a dog's body language?

2011-05-18T03:15:00.000-04:00

Do you think that a wagging tail always means a happy dog? Do you know what it means when a dog shows you the white's of his eyes? Click here to take the dog body language quiz!

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Dog Bite Prevention Week - May 15-21

2011-05-15T07:58:00.001-04:00

Each year 4.7 million Americans – most of them children – are bitten by dogs.

Did you know half of all children will be bitten by a dog by the time they’re high school seniors? They are 900 times more likely to be bitten than postal workers. And most of the biters are family dogs or dogs the children are familiar with.

To raise awareness of one of the nation’s most commonly reported public health problems, the U.S. Postal Service joins forces each year with the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and other organizations to promote National Dog Bite Prevention Week during the third week of May.

Read the entire article

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Why Children Suffer the Greatest Risk for Dog Bites

2011-05-11T22:49:00.000-04:00

Based on the statistics available from the United States, approximately 350,000 to 400,000 people end up being treated in emergency wards for dog bites each year. Most are sent home after treatment, however around 2% do require hospitalization. The statistics are quite clear about who the targets of these dog bites are most likely to be. Children below the age of 15 account for approximately 60% of all of these dog bites, with the most vulnerable group being kids around 5 to 9 years of age. If we break down the statistics a bit more, we find that two thirds of the children that are bitten by dogs are boys. Read the entire article

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Common Myths About Fleas

2011-05-09T15:43:00.001-04:00

by Jean Hofve, DVM, Veterinary Advisor to Only Natural Pet

1. Myth# 1: A healthy pet won't get fleas - While not a guarantee, it is true that a healthy animal is a much less attractive host for fleas. That's one of many good reasons to feed a high quality diet of natural food. However, even a healthy pet can get fleas in heavily infested regions, so keep a watchful eye out and use a natural flea repellent on all at-risk pets.

2. Myth #2: Fleas live on pets, not in the houses - Fleas usually enter the house on pets, as stated above, but they can quickly find refuge in the house. Carpets, bedding, pet beds, and upholstered furniture make cozy homes for fleas, flea eggs, and flea larvae. If you find fleas in the house, you must take quick action to eliminate them there (as well as on your pet, and even in your yard).

3. Myth #3: Keeping the house clean will prevent fleas - Unfortunately, fleas can infest even the most spotless home. Fleas usually enter the house on your pets, but they can also hitch a ride on clothing, and have even been seen to jump right into the house on their own. Hard-surfaced floors are no protection, either; fleas can live in the cracks and around the edges of wood, laminate, or tile floors. They can also take refuge in furniture, bedding, and area rugs. If you live in an area with fleas, it is important to protect your pets at all times. It’s also important to get rid of fleas in your yard. Creating a flea-free buffer all around the house a great way to prevent infestation.

4. Myth #4: If I only see a couple of fleas on my pet, then it’s not a big problem - More than 90% of a flea population is in the egg, larval, or pupal (cocoon) stage, all of which take place off the pet, usually in carpet, bedding, or furniture, or shady areas in the yard where your pet (or other critters) hang out. If you see a few fleas, it’s certain that there are hundreds of eggs and immature stages in the environment. The process of producing an adult flea can take weeks or even months. There’s no quick fix, but vigilance and persistence can get rid of even stubborn infestations.

Read the entire article

Click here to read information from the EPA about spot on flea control

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Banana "Mutt" Cookies

2011-05-07T10:01:00.003-04:00

I ran across a super easy dog treat recipe and thought I'd share it!

1-1/2 cups mashed ripe banana
1/2 tsp vanilla
3 cups oats (I ran them through the food processor to make them more like a flour)
1/4 cup apple sauce (the kind without sugar!)

Mix ingredients and drop by spoonfuls onto an ungreased cookie sheet. Slightly flatten. Bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes. Store in an airtight container or freeze.

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Canine Waste Management

2011-05-06T02:50:00.000-04:00

While most cities and small towns have stringent laws about picking up after our dogs while walking them in public areas, there is a huge amount of doggie poop which is not properly disposed of is a health hazard and, of course very unappealing.

While at one time dog poop was not considered to be a major danger to our health, (with the exception of specific bacteria which causes a disease called Toxicarias), scientists have now retracted this assessment and warn people to be very cautious and careful in disposing doggie doo.

Some folks allow their dogs to run freely on public and private beaches which, as bacterial levels rise and tides roll in, those levels may even force lifeguards to forbid folks from going into the water. Storm drains which frequently spill into the water supply may contain E-coli, Salmonella, Giardia and fecal Coliform bacteria.

Dog poop often sullies our parks and other public areas designed for recreation and all in all this is a rather disgusting and very unsanitary situation. Of course, this is not at all ecologically sound for humans or other living creatures. Read the entire article

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Pet Treats Recalled

2011-05-05T01:23:00.002-04:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 3, 2011 - Keys Manufacturing Company, Inc. of Paris, IL is recalling Pig Ears for Pet Treats because it has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella. Salmonella can affect animals and there is risk to humans from handling contaminated pet products. People handling dry pet food and/or treats can become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the chews or any surfaces exposed to these products.

Read the entire announcement

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Dr. Jane Conference Call Tonight!

2011-05-04T01:00:00.001-04:00

Our Pet Product Formulator, Dr. Jane Bicks, DVM, holds bi-monthly calls that anyone can participate in. At the beginning of each call, Dr. Jane provides in-depth answers to any questions participants have about our products for companion animals. We hope you will join us for these regularly scheduled conference calls. To participate, simply dial 561-515-1695 at the appropriate time, and enter 224012# after the prompt. The next Dr. Jane call is scheduled for Wednesday, May 4th at 8:30 p.m. Eastern Time.

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Dr. Jane on Holistic Veterinary Care

2011-05-01T18:10:00.002-04:00

The holistic approach to veterinary care has different meanings for different people. Essentially it means just what the name indicates - looking at “the whole” and not the individual parts. Holistic practitioners consider the whole of a companion animal’s being and how every discrete part works in relation to every other part. Fundamental to this mindset is that everything is interrelated and nothing occurs in isolation.

Furthermore, holistic veterinarians don’t only focus on physical aspects, they also consider the emotional, mental and spiritual elements. Holistic health boils down to balance; imbalance leads to dis-ease. It’s important to remember that physical signs of illness may often be the last to appear, and that mental and emotional imbalance can lead to disease, too. Read the entire article

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Canine Hypothyroidism

2011-04-26T18:06:00.000-04:00

Hypothyroidism, or low thyroid function, is one of the most common canine hormone imbalances. This was not always the case. In recent decades, hypothyroidism diagnoses are on the rise.

In this episode of Pet Talk, Dr. Sarah gives advice about how best to care for dogs that have already been diagnosed with hypothyroidism, as well as provides the steps you can take to ensure that your dog has the best chance of staying healthy.

Click here to watch the video

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Come!

2011-04-24T08:19:00.003-04:00

After three years of apprenticing with a dog trainer/certified dog behaviorist, I went out on my own after she retired and started My Best Buddy Dog Training. It's been an amazing, fun, exciting, happy ride. I truly do love spending time with dogs and their owners teaching their dogs how to be good canine citizens. Recently I was talking to one of my students who isn’t so good with recall when he’s outside in the back yard. I asked the owners how they call him and the circumstances around him not coming when called. I noted that the "party" in the house has to be more fun than the "party" outside and that you have to think really hard about how you can compete with all the good things outside. Click here to read the rest of the article

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Dogs: Heat Stroke

2011-04-22T12:14:00.001-04:00

As summer arrives in all parts of the country, quickly recognizing the signs of heat stroke and knowing how to treat it could save your dog’s life.

What is heat stroke?

Heat stroke occurs when your dog can no longer maintain his normal body temperature (around 101F) by panting. Humidity and heat combine to increase his temperature and at 106F his internal organs start to break down. At that point, you only have minutes to cool him or he could suffer permanent organ damage or even die.

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Study Links ProMeris to Pemphigus Foliaceus; Pfizer Stopping Its Production

2011-04-21T08:40:00.003-04:00

By Jessica Tremayne
Contributing Editor

A recent groundbreaking study of clinical, histological and immunological data of 22 cases of Pemphigus foliaceus, or PF, shows evidence that it can occur as an adverse drug reaction to the canine flea and tick preventive ProMeris.

PF is the most common spontaneously occurring autoimmune skin disease of dogs and typically displays as lesions on the face, nasal planum and ears. The reaction is rare but serious, says the study’s lead author, Thierry Olivry, DrVet, PhD, Dipl. ACVD, of North Carolina State University.

Ultimately, ProMeris Duo (Metaflumizone–amitraz ), which is also used for treating demodicosis, will be discontinued. The product, marketed by Pfizer Animal Health, will be available while supplies last or until mid-September. ProMeris Duo is called ProMeris for Dogs in the US. It is a novel topical ectoparasiticide.

Read the entire article

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Free Book!

2011-04-20T07:32:00.002-04:00

Are you considering getting a new dog this summer? Click the link to download our free book "Before You Get Your Puppy" by Ian Dunbar, DVM.

Free Book!

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Dogs: Compulsive Behaviors

2011-04-18T13:46:00.001-04:00

WARWICK, R.I. -- The International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants 2011 Conference April 1-3 was attended by over 300 dog, cat, parrot and horse behavior consultants.

One headline from the event emerged from a speech by veterinary behaviorist Dr. Nicholas Dodman, director of the Behavior Clinics at Tufts Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, North Grafton, Mass. Dodman discussed animals with compulsive behaviors, and said that new research may demonstrate that dogs who chase their tails (mostly terriers and herding breeds) might actually not be demonstrating a compulsive behavior, but instead could be autistic.

"Like people can have compulsive behaviors, such as famously washing their hands until their skin is raw, animals can have similar behaviors," said Dodman, author of several popular books and editor of "Good Old Dog: Expert Advice for Keeping Your Aging Dog Happy, Healthy and Comfortable" (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, New York, NY, 2010; $26).

"We don't know how many pets have compulsive behaviors," says Dodman. "Generally, behaviorists say around five percent, which makes sense and is consistent with around three percent of the human population who are identified with compulsive disorders."

Read the entire article

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Risk of vaccines: A Review

2011-04-13T15:26:00.002-04:00

This study has come out on vaccine reactions. Well worth the read.

"More often, reactions are consequences of disobeying label instructions, particularly their restrictions against using vaccines only in healthy animals."

Read the entire article

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Housetraining Your Dog

2011-04-08T20:18:00.006-04:00

Housesoiling is a spatial problem. Your puppydog has been allowed to eliminate in the wrong place. Housesoiling quickly becomes a bad habit because dogs develop strong location, substrate, and olfactory preferences for their improvised indoor toilet areas. To housetrain your puppydog: first, prevent any more mistakes; and second, teach your puppydog where you would like him to eliminate.

Read the entire article

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Pet Food Products Liability - Update

2011-04-07T10:29:00.001-04:00

On April 5, 2011, Judge Hillman ruled that the allocation of $250,000 to Purchase Claims was fair, reasonable and adequate and reaffirmed the settlement in its entirety. This decision can be accessed by clicking the appropriate link under the heading "Important Links" on the right. The Claims Administrator is now working diligently to reimburse all claims as promptly as possible. The Claims Administrator will send each claimant a letter advising him or her of determinations made regarding his or her claim. Within approximately 60 days thereafter, each claimant's final settlement amount will be set and a check will be mailed. Read the entire article

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Soothing Mist

2011-04-04T01:01:00.004-04:00

It's the time of year when the mosquitos and fleas and ticks are arriving for a summer stay. It's a good reminder to get some Soothing Mist to keep on hand for skin irritation.

The foundation of Soothing Mist's formula is vitamin C, zinc and pro-vitamin B-5 - nutrients that help nourish, beautify, and defend healthy skin. With its calming blend of pure flower and plant extracts – including aloe vera, calendula, lavender, and chamomile, it never makes the coat greasy. It is safe for dogs, cats, puppies and kittens (over 12 weeks old). You don't have to worry when they lick themselves. Spray it on your pet or onto a piece of cotton, either way it penetrates fast. This gentle formula feels good on the skin and doesn't sting like other topical skin products can.

Finally, an herbal product that you can spray on your pet's skin and feel confident that you are doing the right thing!

DIRECTIONS FOR USE: For use on puppies and kittens over 12 weeks of age. Shake well. Spray a liberal amount directly onto skin or apply to a cotton ball and massage into skin. For long-haired animals, separate hair exposing the skin for better coverage. Use a cotton ball for application around the eyes, nose and mouth. For best results, use several times a day. Click here for more information.

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Training a Cat to Sit!

2011-04-01T01:58:00.006-04:00

Nope, this is NOT an April Fool's Joke! Dr. Sophia Yin teaches you in the video how to train your cat to sit and come when called!

Click here to watch the videoe

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How to Survive a Dog Attack

2011-03-29T13:49:00.001-04:00

By: Sophia Yin, DVM

The number of Americans hospitalized for dog bites almost doubled over a 15-year-period, from 5,100 in 1993 to 9,500 in 2008, according to a recent New York Times article.

Children under 5 and adults 65 and older were most likely to be hospitalized after a bite, and residents of rural areas made four times as many emergency room visits for dog bites than those from non-rural areas. Treatment costs averaged $18,200 per person.

Read the entire article

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Woof! Shush!

2011-03-27T09:14:00.000-04:00

I recently attended a 3 day training seminar with Dr. Ian Dunbar and was reminded about how you can get your "yappinator" to stop "yapping". Below is Dr. Dunbar's training method, which I found to be very successful. It's as easy as 1, 2, 3, 4!

"So many owners, or to be more precise, their neighbors, find excessive barking to be an intolerable problem when dogs are left at home alone. But also, many owners find excessive and uncontrollable barking to be a problem even when they are at home with their dogs. The solution is simple. Teach the dog to shush on cue. This may sound OK in theory but many owners experience huge problems trying to put theory into practice, largely because they try to teach the dog to shush when he is amped up and barking so loud that he cannot even hear the owner’s instructions. We have a better way.

First, let’s put the “problem” on cue and teach the dog to speak on command. Some may think this strange: “My dog barks so much, so why on earth would I teach him to bark more?” Well, if you have taught your dog to speak on command, you may now teach your dog to shush at times when your dog is not over-the-top with excitement and at times that are convenient to you.

Lure/Reward training always comprises the same four-step process:
1. Request 2. Lure 3. Response 4. Reward."

Read the entire article

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Dog Body Language

2011-03-25T12:36:00.000-04:00

By: Ian Dunbar PhD, MRCVS

Even though few of us are fluent in the many dog languages,most of us can tell the difference between a friendly dog and an unfriendly one. The dog seems to get the message across with very little difficulty. It is as easy to sense the aura of a confident, relaxed and easygoing dog as it is to observe specific behaviors and body postures. Such dogs fairly exude warmth and friendliness — head held high with a big doggy laugh, gamboling gait and curved tail wagging the dog's rump. Similarly, one can literally feel the tension emanating from a dog that is not friendly — head lowered, ears flattened, piercing stare, teeth bared and growling, pilo-erection along the back, stiff-legged, and tail held high, straight, stiff and usually vibrating.

It is hard to live with a dog for even a few days without learning a wide vocabulary of his body language. Read the entire article

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Classical Conditioning

2011-03-23T11:25:00.001-04:00

I use the word “Classical Conditioning” quite often when working with dogs that have behavioral issues.

Classical conditioning helps your dog form positive associations with all kinds of stimuli. Is your puppy afraid of men? You can use classical conditioning to address that issue. Read the entire article

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How Dogs Learn

2011-03-21T11:04:00.001-04:00

Dogs are very efficient in their behavior. If a behavior is inherently pleasurable (eating, playing, chasing, etc), or if doing a particular behavior gets something pleasurable for the dog (like food, attention, or social interaction), the dog will display that behavior more and more often. If a behavior is not pleasurable, if it does not work to obtain something pleasurable, or results in something unpleasant, the dog will use that behavior less and less. Whenever you interact with a dog, you’re constantly giving her feedback about what works to get the good stuff and what doesn’t work. If a dog jumps up and gets attention, even if the attention is that you push him, then he knows that jumping “works” -– that is, it gets him attention and social interaction. If a he accidentally bites you in play and you don’t end the game, then he learns that play biting “works” or at least is not a serious impropriety -– the fun continues. So you can see why it is very important to manipulate the consequences of your dog’s behavior to be sure he is getting the right messages from you. This is a big responsibility. Read the entire article

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10 Dog Park Rules and Tips

2011-03-19T12:07:00.000-04:00

By: Robin Sockness

1. Make sure you can read your dog’s body language!

2. Do not expect your dog to behave the same way in a dog park that he does at home.

3. Don't use the dog park as the place to be sociable with other humans, which means you are easily distracted by conversations with other dog owners and not watching your dog.

4. Make sure your dog has good recall! Call your dog to you once in a while to maintain your connection. Praise your dog when s/he comes to you.

5. Don't go if your dog is terrified of other dogs and humans!

6. Make sure your dog is current on vaccines. We don't recommend puppies under the age of 12 weeks enter dog parks.

7. Use this time to classically condition your dog! Don't feed breakfast that morning and use your dog's kibble to treat for appropriate behavior and when he or she meets new people and dogs. Anything not eaten can be moistened and stuffed into a Kong for a special "after the dog park" reward.

8. Bring your poop bags, a towel and some water for your dog to drink.

9. Play the "Gotcha Game" (collar tugs) with your dog and brief (5 second) time outs when your dog gets too wound up.

10. Practice coming and going from the park while you are there. Bring a stuffed Kong or have something yummy in the car for your dog when you are done and headed home. A reward for leaving the park is well deserved!

To get more information about off-leash dog park etiquette, click here

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FDA Warning: Xylitol

2011-03-18T03:50:00.000-04:00

FDA is Warning Pet Owners on the Dangers of Xylitol Ingestion in Dogs and Ferrets
February 18, 2011

The Food and Drug Administration is cautioning consumers about the risks associated with the accidental consumption of xylitol by dogs and ferrets. Xylitol is a sugar alcohol approved for use in many common products, including sugar-free baked goods, candy, oral hygiene products, and chewing gum.

Xylitol can be found in many over-the-counter drugs such as chewable vitamins and throat lozenges and sprays. It can also be purchased in bulk bags for use in home baking. These products are intended only for human use.

FDA is aware of complaints involving dogs that experienced illness associated with the accidental consumption of xylitol. Xylitol is safe for humans but it can be harmful to dogs and ferrets.

FDA is advising consumers to always read the label on products and to not presume that a product that is safe for humans is safe for your pet.

The FDA reports included clinical signs such as a sudden drop in blood sugar (hypoglycemia), seizures and liver failure. If you suspect your pet has ingested xylitol, some signs to look for are depression, loss of coordination and vomiting. The signs of illness may occur within minutes to days of ingesting xylitol. Owners should consult their veterinarian or pet poison control center immediately for advice if they know or suspect that their pet has ingested a human product containing xylitol.

Read the entire article

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SmartMeal on Sale this Week!

2011-03-17T12:30:00.000-04:00

It's getting warm outside and folks are starting to think about summertime clothing and the needs to shed a few pounds. Nature's Sunshine offers three SmartMeal flavors and they are all on sale this week!

SmartMeal Nutritional Shake Mix is a delicious healthful drink. One serving provides 15 grams of protein and 35% of the recommended Daily Value for 17 vitamins and minerals, plus beneficial levels of calcium, phosphorus, vitamin D and magnesium. Use it as a meal replacement for weight loss or as a healthful snack anytime throughout the day. Each drink is only 130–140 calories.

SmartMeal provides 2 grams of dietary fiber per serving, plus cold-pressed, organic flax seed that offers 200 mg of beneficial omega-3 essential fatty acids. Flax seed may help contribute to a feeling of fullness. SmartMeal provides 15 grams of protein from soy protein isolate, pea protein isolate, golden chlorella protein, and only contains natural flavors.

Benefits:

* Provides 15 grams of protein plus essential amino acids per serving to build muscle and boost metabolism.

* May help contribute to a feeling of fullness.

* Supports cardiovascular health (provides 200 mg essential omega-3 fatty acids per serving).

* Contains nutrients for energy.

* Provides 35% of the recommended Daily Value for 18 vitamins and minerals, plus beneficial levels of calcium, phosphorus and magnesium.

Click here to order and to view all items on sale

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Nature's Sunshine Big Sale This Week!

2011-03-16T12:24:00.006-04:00

Nature's Sunshine has rolled out several new products and many things are on sale this week!

Click here to view what's on sale!

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FDA Warning: Recall on Drugs

2011-03-15T15:52:00.001-04:00

FDA Advises Veterinarians of Recent Recall of Human Drug, Phenobarbitol

Drug is Prescribed for Animals Extralabel

March 10, 2011

The Food and Drug Administration’s Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM) has become aware of a human drug recall for Phenobarbital tablets. Phenobarbital is prescribed by veterinarians as an extralabel use for treating seizures in animals.

On February 5, 2011, Qualitest Pharmaceuticals voluntarily recalled several lots of Phenobarbital 32.4 mg and Hydrocodone Bitartrate and Acetaminophen Tablets 10 mg/500 mg due to a label mix-up between the two drug products. Hydrocodone Bitartrate and Acetaminophen Tablets were incorrectly labeled as Phenobarbital tablets 32.4 mg. As a result of this mix-up, pets may unintentionally be given Hydrocodone and Acetaminophen tablets instead of the intended drug, Phenobarbital.

CVM has recently received 3 serious adverse event reports involving dogs treated with Phenobarbital tablets manufactured by Qualitest Pharmaceuticals. One report cited two of the three affected lot numbers for the recalled product. The remaining two reports did not provide the lot numbers.

Read the entire article

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Ivermectin - warning

2011-03-15T11:32:00.006-04:00

Ivermectin is a medication which is used in dogs to prevent heartworm infection and treat various parasitic infections, including ear mites, demodectic mange and sarcoptic mange. In addition, ivermectin is used in dogs that already have heartworm infections to kill the larval form of heartworms that are found in the blood stream (microfilaria).

Ivermectin is found in various formulations, including Heartgard Plus® and similar heartworm preventive medications, Acarexx® and Ivomec®.

Most Common Side Effects of Ivermectin in Dogs

When side effects do occur, the most commonly seen symptoms are lack of appetite, lethargy, vomiting and diarrhea. These symptoms often resolve without medical intervention within a few days.

In some dogs, ivermectin can also affect the central nervous system, leading to side effects such as incoordination and seizures. This reaction can be fatal as well.

If your dog has been given ivermectin and you believe he is suffering side effects from the medication, you should contact your veterinarian immediately.

MDR1 Gene Defect and Ivermectin Sensitivity in Dogs

The dogs most likely to experience serious side effects with ivermectin are those dogs that have a genetic gene mutation known as the deletion mutation of the MDR1 (multi-drug resistant) gene. Dogs most likely to be affected by this gene mutation are those of the collie breeds. Specific breeds known to affected are:

* Collies
* Australian Shepherds
* Shelties
* Long-haired Whippets

Read more at Suite101: Side Effects of Ivermectin in Dogs

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Pet Handling Skills

2011-03-11T08:58:00.001-05:00

Learning the Most Important Pet-Handling Skills in 30 Minutes
by Sophia Yin, DVM, MS

"The technician we had the last time was great," said the concerned client.

"Thor immediately liked her, and she was able to show us how to clean his ears. But the technician we had today seemed cold and even afraid of Thor.

"She commanded Thor to sit, and when he didn’t, she pulled his collar up with the leash to get him to sit.

"Then, when she went to put a muzzle on, that was it. We couldn’t do anything with Thor after that. I don’t think we can go back there again unless we're sure we can get the friendly technician."

What makes one technician so much better with some pets than others?

While many skilled technicians do not know what it is that gives them the edge, the specific attributes are well defined and can be easily learned.

Working well with an animal starts with the ability to read the pet’s body language, followed by the ability to greet and interact in a way that puts the pet at ease and makes it clear what you’d like him to do.

Read the entire article

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Dogs Probably Feel Sorry For Us

2011-03-09T09:36:00.003-05:00

Dogs appear to empathize with us, to the point that some therapy dogs even seem to take on the emotions of their sick or distressed human charges, according to a new paper in the latest issue of Biology Letters.

The matter is more complicated than you might think, because researchers need to tease apart true empathy from a phenomenon known as "emotional contagion."

Emotional contagion is more of a knee-jerk reaction to various behaviors and other cues. For example, if you yawn, others near you, including dogs, might start to yawn too. They're not necessarily empathizing with you, although areas of the brain tied to empathy are involved. In fact, the mimicry is primarily triggered at a subconscious level. No one is certain why this happens. Some scientists suspect it has to do with communicating levels of alertness and coordinating sleep schedules.Read the entire article

Read the Scientific Study

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Basic Instinct

2011-03-07T00:32:00.003-05:00

Ian Dunbar PhD, MRCVS
Dogs chew for a variety of reasons but primarily, because
that's what dogs do. Dogs chew because it's fun. In fact, the
majority of canine investigatory of occupational activities
involve using their jaws and paws to chew or dig. For many
domestic dogs one of these activities becomes their hobby
and just like young boys, puppy and adolescent dogs can
become quite fanatical about their hobbies. Chewing is
basically a normal and natural doggy behavior, which is also
necessary for maintaining healthy gums and clean teeth. Read the entire article

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Dr. Jane Conference Call

2011-03-05T06:27:00.004-05:00

Our Pet Product Formulator, Dr. Jane Bicks, DVM, holds bi-monthly calls that anyone can participate in. At the beginning of each call, Dr. Jane provides in-depth answers to any questions participants have about our products for companion animals. We hope you will join us for these regularly scheduled conference calls. To participate, simply dial 561-515-1695 at the appropriate time, and enter 224012# after the prompt. The next Dr. Jane call is scheduled for Wednesday, March 9th at 8:30 p.m. Eastern Time.

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New Versions of Advantage® and K9 Advantix®

2011-03-03T10:45:00.003-05:00

Dr. Karen Becker's Comments: "I guess Bayer Animal Health’s idea of a ‘next generation’ flea and tick product is one that contains even more chemical pesticides than previous formulations.

By the way – please don’t be fooled by the benign-sounding description of pyriproxyfen as an ‘insect growth regulator.’

It’s a chemical pesticide. ‘Growth regulator’ is a euphemism for killing agent.

As an active ingredient in spot-on flea and tick formulas, pyriproxyfen is a newer chemical and there aren’t many reports available on adverse effects. However, EPA tests of pyriproxyfen on rodents showed decreased body weight and toxicity in the offspring of animals exposed to the chemical." Read the entire article

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Wellness Cat Food Recall

2011-03-02T09:49:00.001-05:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - February 28, 2011 - WellPet LLC announced today it has voluntarily recalled certain lots of Wellness® canned cat food.

While recent laboratory testing found that most lots of Wellness canned cat food that were tested contain sufficient amounts of thiamine (also known as Vitamin B1), some of the lots listed below might contain less than adequate levels of thiamine. However, out of an abundance of caution, WellPet has decided to recall all of the lots listed below.

Cats fed only the affected lots for several weeks may be at risk for developing a thiamine deficiency. Thiamine is essential for cats. Symptoms of deficiency displayed by an affected cat can be gastrointestinal or neurological in nature. Early signs of thiamine deficiency may include decreased appetite, salivation, vomiting, and weight loss. In advanced cases, neurologic signs can develop, which may include ventriflexion (bending towards the floor) of the neck, wobbly walking, circling, falling, and seizures. If your cat has consumed the recalled lots and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian. If treated promptly, thiamine deficiency is typically reversible.

The lots involved in this voluntary recall are:

Wellness Canned Cat Food (all flavors and sizes) with best by dates from 14APR 13 through 30SEP13;

Wellness Canned Cat Food Chicken & Herring (all sizes) with 10NOV13 or 17NOV13 best buy dates.

Consumers who still have cans of cat food from these lots should stop feeding them to their cats and call us at (877) 227-9587 Monday through Friday, 9:00 am – 7:00 pm Eastern Time. Consumers with further questions should visit our website at www.wellnesspetfood.com2 or call us at this same number.

WellPet discovered the lower thiamine levels during independent testing conducted together with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in response to a single, isolated consumer complaint received by the FDA. Although WellPet has received no other reports concerning thiamine in its products, WellPet has taken additional steps with the manufacturer to ensure that this does not happen again.

“As a pet parent myself, I’m concerned for the health and welfare of all pets, and as a company we are committed to delivering the most nutritious natural pet food,” said Tim Callahan, chief executive officer of WellPet, the maker of Wellness products. “Even though the chance of a cat developing a thiamine deficiency is extremely remote, we are voluntarily recalling all of these lots of our canned cat food as an extra precaution.”

Read the FDA Recall Information Here

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Hyperactivity in Dogs

2011-03-01T07:00:00.003-05:00

By Debra F. Horwitz, DVM, Diplomate ACVB Veterinary Behavior Consultations, St. Louis, Missouri

Occasionally owners of very active dogs come to my office convinced that their dogs are hyperactive and have attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorders. Do these conditions really exist in dogs?

Hyperactivity is “a rare clinical syndrome characterized by overactivity, attention deficits, impulsivity, high resting basal physiologic parameters and a paradoxical calming response to amphetamines.1 Labeling these dogs as “hyperkinetic” may be clearer; they do not habituate to normal stimuli, are reactive, and cannot seem to rest even in calm, quiet surroundings. Within veterinary practice, the condition appears to be rather rare. The signs noted by owners are usually attributable to breed dispositions, conditioned behavior, or lack of appropriate outlets for activity and exercise. Read the entire article

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Wellness Canned Cat Food Recall

2011-03-01T06:52:00.001-05:00

The lots involved in this voluntary recall are:

Wellness Canned Cat (all flavors and sizes) with best by dates from 14APR 13 through 30SEP13;

Wellness Canned Cat Chicken & Herring (all sizes) with best by date of 10NOV13 and 17NOV13.

If you have cat food from these lots, you should stop feeding it to your cats. You may call WellPet at 1-877-227-9587 to arrange for return of the product and reimbursement.

Read the letter from the company

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Five Essential Nutrients for Healthy Skin and Coat

2011-02-26T18:25:00.000-05:00

Keeping your companion animal’s skin healthy and coat shiny can prove challenging. Even though you might already feed a quality food, and brush and shampoo regularly, there’s more to this area of pet care than you might think. Veterinarians will tell you that the condition of the skin can be a good indicator of a pet’s overall health and nutrition status. That’s why wise pet parents should monitor their companion animal for any of these tell-tale signs … Read the entire article

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