Is It Too Warm to Take My Dog Along Today?

How hot is too hot to leave your dog in the car?  Probably not as hot as you think.  Our dogs love to come with us and we want to be with them, so many of us bring them along when we run a few errands and leave them in the car.  It's just a few minutes and with the windows cracked they will be fine, right?  Unfortunately, this is not true and could be damaging to their health and in many cases deadly.

“Is it too warm to take my dog along today?”  We need to ask ourselves this question every time we drive with a dog.  If the temperature is above 50 degrees, it's probably best to just leave your buddy at home at look forward to their happy greeting when you return.

Warm weather can literally be a killer for a dog left inside a car. On warm days, the inside of a car heats up very quickly. When it’s 85 degrees outside, the temperature inside a car – even with the windows cracked – can soar to 102 degrees in 10 minutes and 120 degrees in just half an hour. On hotter days, the temperature will climb even higher. Outside temperatures in the 70s can be dangerous, as well.

Leaving a dog for “just a minute” may be too long.
Because they rely on panting and aren’t able to sweat, dogs can’t cool themselves like people can and their body temperature can rise quickly. Dogs left in the heat can suffer severe illness, organ damage – or even death – in a matter of minutes.

Keep your dog cool.
Join other people who love their dogs by taking the “Cool Dog” pledge at MyDogIsCool.com

If you see a dog in a hot car: Try to locate the dog’s owners, then call animal control, the police or 911 if the dog is in distress. If the dog is overcome by heat, wet the dog’s feet and coat with water and seek veterinary care immediately.

This lifesaving information is meant to be shared. Please pass this along to another animal lover!

All information and pictures courtesy of mydogiscool.com

APRIL: Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month

'Go Orange For Animals' is the theme of the month.  Please spread the word about animal cruelty and consider making a donation to support the many shelters and groups that work so hard to save the animals.

So-So True

Dogs and Babies

Source:  media.egotvonline.com

I read a blog post today on Petside.com,  5 Myths About Dogs and Babies and I think it is great information that is important to share.  Many dogs find themselves homeless when baby arrives simply because they are confused and have not been given the proper training to handle the many changes that accompany a bundle of joy.  Work with your dog before and after your baby is born and give them the chance to grow up as best friends.


Love this!
Source:  http://29.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_ltcoto239E1qdhmrqo1_500.jpg

Dogs Eye View

 

I've always loved this quote. It makes me think about how great it would be if everyone viewed the world like dogs. I often think about when Bailey was a puppy and on (most of) our walks I was rushing but he always wanted to stop and smell the flowers, literally. It took me a while but I realized that I have a lot to learn from him.

New Blood Test to Detect & Monitor Canine Cancer

Thirsty Pets

The Stainless Steel Pet Fountain solves more than just one problem if you have pets in your home.  First, the filter keeps the water fresh and clean without having to wash and refill the bowl many times throughout the day.  Second, a great way to attract your pet to drink more and finally, it's good looking.  Find it at Amazon for about $43.

Interesting Pet Owners Statistics

I came across some very interesting statistics about pet owners in Parade Magazine's America by the numbers:  Pet Owners Edition.

• 62 percent of Americans have a pet.  Of those, 69 percent have a dog, 51 percent have a cat, 11 percent a fish, and 7 percent a bird.  (8 percent have an unusual animal.)
• More than 90 percent of Americans consider their pet a member of the family.
• 25 percent of American say they have tasted their pet's food.
• $50.84 Billion is the estimated amount that owners will spend on their pets this year.
• 66 percent of Americans would not vote for a presidential candidate who didn't like pets.

DIY - Pet ID Tags

Leave it to Martha to come up with a creative, do it yourself, way to make your own Pet ID Tags.

Martha Stewart's DIY Pet ID Tag Instructions

By the way, I'm a huge fan of dogs wearing ID Tags 24/7.  See my blog post for details.

HOT Dogs - Avoiding Heat Exhaustion

During this extremely hot summer, I've witnessed serveral dogs with heat exhaustion, which could have easily been easily avoided.  Just like humans, our pets need protection from extreme temperatures.

One of the problems you might not realize is that dogs don't sweat to help them cool off, they pant which is is an extremely inefficient way to cool off.  Plus, dogs cool from the bottom up, meaning paws and belly.

The best way to avoid your pet getting heat exhaustion is to limit the amount of time they are outside and walk them during the coolest hours of the day only, early morning and late night.  Plus, make sure they have plenty of cool water and a nice cool spot to lounge in all day.  If you don't have air conditioning, you might want to investigate a cooling pad that they can lay on.  I've seen some varieties that use water and some that just need to be put in the refrigerator to regenerate.

One more thing, please, please, please never leave your dogs in your car.  Even if you crack the window, in less than five minutes your car turns into an oven and literally can cook your dog to death.  Cars heat up 30 degrees more than the outside temperature.  If your dog will have to stay in the car, it is a better idea to leave him at home if the temperature is above 50 degrees.

Boarding Alternative

In-Your-Home Pet Sitting is a wonderful alternative to boarding your pet in a kennel.  And it is growing in popularity.

Kennels can add stress, anxiety and expose your pet to illness and injury. Not to mention your feelings of guilt and worry for having to leave your pet in a strange place, locked in a cage with strange people and animals.  And just as daycare, it's not for all pets especially puppies or older dogs.  Even the most luxurious kennels or pet hotels pose some risks.

I believe your pet is much more comfortable and happy in their own home. With In-Your-Home Pet Sitting your pet stays in your home, gets visits throughout the day and in some cases can include an overnight stay.

Your pet is safe and taken care of when you are away. Other house sitting type services are also generally included such as mail and newspaper pick up, rotation of lights and in-house plant watering.

In-Your-Home Pet Sitting is a great option to consider for you and your pet.  And if you have multiple pets, it usually is the most economical way to go.

Daycare vs. Dog Walking

Dog daycare is great, but not all the time and it’s not for all dogs.

Dog daycare can reinforce undesirable behavior in your dog and may cause anxiety from the ever changing environment of other dogs. Many common dog illnesses and injuries can also be contracted in the daycare environment, making it unsafe for puppies and some older dogs. So you need to make sure you evaluate your dog and determine if a daycare setting is right for them.

Dog walking provides personal and specialized attention for you and your dog while allowing your dog to remain safely in their own home.  The entire walking visit can be customized to meet you and your dog's needs.  If they need to be fed or require medications, your dog walker generally can accomodate you.  It's pretty easy to find a dog walker these days.  There are usually several in an area so just do a bit of asking around and you will likely find someone you can trust and your dog will love.

P&G Aquired Natura Pet Products

Happened May, 2010. So sad.

It was only time before P&G started to realize that pet owners are getting wise to the whole pet food industry, so they aquired Natura Pet Products, the makers of Innova, Evo, California Naturals, Healthwise and Mother Nature brands of pet food and treats, to cash in on their piece of the holistic, high quality pet food pie.

Great blog about it here

If you feed these brands I would keep your eyes wide open and remember P&G is all about profits and nothing else...no matter what their ads may say.

Have You Seen My Lipstick?

Why would you even ask me that? I'm insulted.

Every time something goes missing around here, everybody looks at me! For your information, I don't even wear that shade - it doesn't flatter my complexion and it tastes terrib…..

Oh, THAT lipstick...

Thank you to my Aunt who sent me this very cute picture.

New Illinois Puppy Law

Starting in January 2011, Illinois pet stores will be required to have pertinent medical and breeder information about their puppies for sale on display. Governer Quinn signed the bill on Sunday stating, 'We don't want anybody buying an animal that has been inhumanely treated before its sale, and unfortunately that has existed.'

This is a huge step forward for consumers but most importantly the fight against puppy mills. I want to thank the Illinois legislature for doing the right thing. It's time for all states to crack down on puppy mills and stop the abusive practices to the animals we domesticated. I look forward to more legislation in Illinois in favor of animals. We must continue to hit hard and let those who choose profit over the well being of animals know that they will not prosper in Illinois.

Thank you for the giant step in the right direction.

Detailed Article

Crate For The Truly Modern Dog

Fido Flat, the coolest dog crate I've seen so far.Incorporating earth-friendly materials, the Fido Flat is an indoor dog home that doubles as a piece of furniture. It's available in two colors: Charcoal Gray or Blue. But here's the kicker, it's a bit pricey at $349.00 plus shipping (unless you live in the Denver Metro area, they will deliver for free). Pick yours up at fidoflat.com.

This one is on my list!

Vaccinations; The Controversy Continues

Dog vaccinations are a very emotional topic for me. I have two family members that lost their wonderful dogs way to soon, because of immune diseases brought on by vaccinations or over vaccinations. Last year I posted an article from Dr. Dan about Vaccinations. I’ve just come across another article that discusses vaccinations, in the August 2010 edition of Whole Dog Journal, and I wanted to share it. In fact, I urge you to read it. New information has been available for a few years regarding vaccinations so the old standard is just that, old and outdated. Here’s an excerpt:

In WDJ’s opinion (and that of the experts we consult), annual vaccination for most canine diseases is unnecessary and potentially harmful. Dog owners should avoid employing those old-fashioned veterinarians who recommend annual vaccines. Owners should also avoid those veterinary service providers who provide inexpensive vaccines and other routine care without the benefit of a relationship with you and your dog beyond a brief transaction in a parking lot or pet supply store. While the financial cost of vaccine clinics may be appealing, the fact is, your dog’s health may pay the price of unnecessary or inappropriate vaccines.

Full Article

I’m not saying don’t vaccination your dog, but as WDJ puts it, Educate yourself on canine vaccination practices using reputable sources so that you can have an intelligent conversation with your veterinarian on the pros and cons of vaccination for your dog; a good place to start are the AAHA Guidelines.

Pet's: Bigger Environmental Threat Than SUV's

Seriously, can we cure cancer instead of wasting money on stupid studies like this.

Read the article.

Too Many Chihuahuas

California shelters have more Chihuahuas than they can handle, and it has Hollywood to blame.

Chihuahuas are the most popular breed of dog in Los Angeles, so it makes sense it is the most abandoned breed, said Madeline Bernstein, president of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Los Angeles. In Oakland, some days, they get 10 of the 5-pound dogs a day, Webb said.

Chihuahuas make up 30 percent or more of the dog populations at many California shelters. And experts say pop culture is to blame, with fans immitating Chihuahua-toting celebrities like Paris Hilton and Miley Cyrus, then abandoning the dogs.

Full Article

Dog Overweight?

Obesity is the number one problem facing pets in the United States, 40% are dangerously overweight. Just like humans, overweight pets face many health problems including diabetes, heart disease, cancer, arthritis and shortened life.

There is a simple way to tell if your pet is overweight, if you can easily feel their ribs most likely they are in a healthy weight range. If not, it's time to pay attention to your dog's food intake and exercise.

As your dog ages, his calorie needs go down so you need to adjust their food levels accordingly. (Keep in mind that older dogs need more protein.) Also, dogs who get less exercise have less calorie needs than dogs who gets lots of exercise. One way to determine how much to feed your dog is to read the suggested feeding requirements on your dog's food package. However, the amounts listed by the manufacturer are generally much too high and they are not adjusted for treats. Most dogs should be fed at the lowest end of the range, some require even less, and if you supplement with treats you need to lower the amount of food you feed. Speaking of treats, NO TABLE SCRAPS. This is where dogs get into trouble. If you want to give them some of the food you are eating, consider a bite of unseasoned meat, carrot, zucchini, brussels sprouts, etc....(see the ASPCA list of People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets.) These types of treats are the healthiest and lowest calorie treats you can give your dog. But consider every bite you feed your dog and adjust the amount of food accordingly.

As far as prescription drugs to help your pooch trim down, are you kidding me? That is the most ridiculous thing I have every heard. Monitor their diet, take them for long walks and in a very short amount of time you will see results.