FIREWORKS AND THUNDERSTORMS PHOBIAS
FUN CORNER
HOLIDAY HAZARDS FOR PETS
TRAVELING WITH PETS.
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FIREWORKS AND THUNDERSTORMS PHOBIAS |
With our recent stormy weather and fast approaching fourth of July, many
owners have discovered that their dogs are scared of storms and loud
noises. Here are some things to keep in mind for your storm/noise phobic
dog.
-Don’t punish your dog when he is scared, it will only confirm to him that
there is something to be afraid of and will make the behavior worsen.
-Don’t try to reassure or coddle your dog, he will regard this as a reward
for the behavior.
-Although it is difficult, try to ignore any fearful behavior.
-Try to find a quiet and confined area for your dog to “hide” in, such as
a crate in a bathroom or closet with no windows.
-Try to start a desensitization program with either an audio or video
recording of loud noises/storms.
-There are some anti-anxiety drugs that our veterinarians may prescribe-
contact our office for more information.
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FUN CORNER |
Pet Peeves from the Dog
10. Blaming your farts on me…not funny…not funny at all.
9. Yelling at me for barking…I AM A DOG!!
8. How you naively believe that the stupid cat isn’t all over everything
while you are gone. Have you noticed that your toothbrush tastes a little
like cat spit?!
7. Taking me for a walk, then not letting me check stuff out. Exactly
whose walk is this anyway?
6. Any trick that involves balancing anything on my nose…stop it.
5. Yelling at me for peeing and rubbing my bum on your carpet. Why’d you
buy carpet?
4. Dog sweaters. Hello…have you notice the fur?
3. Any haircut that involves bows or ribbons. Now you know why we chew up
your stuff when you are not at home.
2.When you pick up poop in the yard. Do you realize how far behind
schedule that puts me?
And the #1 pet peeve from the dog’s perspective…
The slight of hand, fake-fetch-throw. You fooled a dog!
What a proud moment for the top of the food chain.
Written by Marcia Hotvedt vspn.com 5/23/03
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Holiday hazards for pets |
Here are some tips for keeping your pets out of danger during the holiday
season.
AVOID Holiday Food Items That Could Cause Problems For Your Pet
Alcoholic beverages
Chocolate (baker's, semi-sweet, milk chocolate)
Coffee (grounds, beans, chocolate covered espresso beans)
Moldy or spoiled foods
Onions, onion powder
Fatty foods
Salt
Yeast dough
PLANTS
Lilies that may be found in holiday flower arrangements could be deadly to
your cat. Many types of lily, such as Tiger, Asian, Japanese Show, Easter,
Stargazer, and the Casa Blanca, can cause kidney failure in cats.
Poinsettias are generally over-rated in toxicity. If ingested, poinsettias
can be irritating to the mouth and stomach, and may cause mild vomiting or
nausea.
Mistletoe has the potential to cause cardiovascular problems. However,
mistletoe ingestion usually only causes gastrointestinal upset.
Holly ingestion could cause vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, and lethargy.
HAZARDS AROUND THE CHRISTMAS TREE
Christmas tree water may contain fertilizers, which, if ingested, can
cause stomach upset. Stagnant tree water can be breeding grounds for
bacteria, which can also lead to vomiting, nausea, and diarrhea, if
ingested.
Electric cords- Avoid animal exposure to electric cords. If they were
chewed, they could electrocute your pet. Cover up or hide electric cords,
never let your pet chew on them.
Ribbons or tinsel can get caught up in the intestines and cause intestinal
obstruction.
Batteries contain corrosives. If ingested they can cause ulceration to the
mouth, tongue, and the rest of the gastrointestinal tract.
Glass ornaments can cut the tissues of the gastrointestinal tract if
ingested.
MEDICATIONS
Keep all prescriptions and over-the-counter drugs out of the reach of your
pets, preferably in closed cabinets. Pain killers, cold medicines,
anti-cancer, drugs, antidepressants, vitamins, and diet pills are common
examples of human medication that could be potentially lethal even in
small dosages. One
regular-strength ibuprofen tablet (200mg) can cause stomach ulcers in a
10-pound dog. Remind holiday guests to store their medications safely as
well.
During the holidays, many veterinary clinics have limited office hours. In
some cases, pet owners try to medicate their animals without their
veterinarian's advice. Never give your animal any medications unless under
the directions of veterinarian. Many medications that are used safely in
humans can be deadly when used inappropriately. Less than one regular
strength acetaminophen tablet (325mg) can be dangerous to a cat weighing
7lbs.
OTHER WINTER HAZARDS
Antifreeze has a pleasant taste. Unfortunately, very small amounts can be
lethal. As little as one teaspoon of antifreeze can be deadly to a cat;
less than four teaspoons can be dangerous to a 10-pound dog. Thoroughly
clean up any spills, store antifreeze in tightly closed containers and
store in secured cabinets. Automotive products such as gasoline, oil and
antifreeze should be stored in areas that are inaccessible to your pets.
Propylene glycol is a safer form of antifreeze. Low Tox™ brand antifreeze
contains propylene glycol and is recommended to use in pet households.
If you think your pet has consumed antifreeze, contact your veterinarian
or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (1-888-4-ANI-HELP) right away!
Liquid potpourris are popular household fragrances commonly used during
the holiday season. Pets are often exposed to liquid potpourri by direct
ingestion from simmer pots or spills, or by rubbing against leaky bottles
or simmer pots containing the potpourri, or from spilling the containers
upon themselves. Oral exposures result following grooming. Exposure of
pets to some types of liquid potpourris can result in severe oral, dermal
and ocular damage.
Ice melting products can be irritating to skin and mouth. Depending on the
actual ingredient of the ice melt and the quantity, signs of ingestion
would include excessive drooling, depression, vomiting or even electrolyte
imbalances.
Rat and mouse killers are used more commonly during colder weather. When
using rat and mouse bait, place the products in areas that are
inaccessible to your companion animals.
ALWAYS Be Prepared !!!!
Your animal may become poisoned in spite of your best efforts to prevent
it. You should keep telephone numbers for your veterinarian, a local
emergency veterinary service, and the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center
(1-888-4 ANI-HELP) in a convenient location. If you suspect that your pet
has ingested something poisonous, seek medical attention immediately.
ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center
1-888-4ANI-HELP
http://www.apcc.aspca.org
ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center
The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, an operating division of the
American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) is a
unique, emergency hotline providing 24-hour-a-day, 7-day-a-week telephone
assistance to veterinarians and pet owners. The Center's hotline
veterinarians can quickly answer questions about toxic substances found in
our everyday surroundings that can be dangerous to animals. The Center
maintains a wide collection of reference materials and computer databases
that help provide toxicological information for various species.
Veterinary professionals provide around-the-clock, on-site coverage of the
Center. The licensed staff members share over one hundred and ten years of
combined call center experience and over seventy-five years of combined
toxicology, clinical, and diagnostic experience. The phone number of the
Center is 1-888-4-ANI-HELP (1-888-426-4435) and the website is
www.apcc.aspca.org.
Date Published: 12/11/2001
veterinary partner.com
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Traveling with pets. |
It is now the holiday season and many people will be traveling with there
pets.
Here are a few helpful hints found at avma.org.
What you should know about traveling with your pet
Revised May 2007
Planning and Preparation
Planning and preparation are necessary when traveling with family pets.
Consider whether your pet is comfortable when traveling. Some animals,
like some people, function better in familiar surroundings. A car-sick
animal can make a trip miserable for everyone. Some dogs and cats cannot
withstand the rigors of travel due to illness, injury, or temperament. If
this is the case, discuss options such as using a reliable pet-sitter or a
clean, well-managed boarding facility with your veterinarian.
If you will be staying with friends along the way, be considerate. Find
out in advance if the pet is welcome. The same goes for hotels, motels,
parks, and campgrounds. Always check whether pets are allowed or kennel
facilities are available. If the pet must be left alone in a hotel room,
place a "Do Not Disturb" sign on the door and inform the maid and the
front desk. Consider bringing along a portable kennel for use in hotel
rooms or the homes of friends or relatives who are not comfortable having
your pet loose when no one is home.
A few general tips apply whether you travel by car or plane. Be sure your
pet is properly identified with a current tag and/or a microchip. Grooming
(bathing, combing, trimming nails) before a trip, plus having its favorite
food, toy(s), and dishes available will make your pet more comfortable.
Have proof of rabies vaccination and a current health certificate with you
when crossing state or international borders. Keep a photo of your pet with
you to help with identification in case your pet is lost.
Before undertaking any trip, consult your veterinarian to be sure that all
required vaccinations are up-to-date and to receive a health certificate
within ten days of travel.
Travel by Air
Air travel is of most concern to pet owners. The airlines sometimes update
their regulations on pet travel including restrictions on breeds and size,
and may charge for checked kennels. Most airlines require a health
certificate issued within 10 days prior to travel. Check with the airline
well in advance for their current regulations. Many of the major airlines
allow cats and small dogs to travel in specially designed carry-on luggage
that will fit under the seat.
Federal regulations require that pets be at least 8 weeks old and weaned
at least 5 days before flying. Always try to book a nonstop flight and
avoid plane changes and busy holidays whenever possible. During warm
weather periods, choose early morning or late evening flights. In colder
months, choose midday flights. Regulations associated with the Federal
Animal Welfare Act prohibit airlines from accepting dogs and cats for
shipment if the airline cannot prevent exposure of the animal to
temperatures less than 45 degrees F (7.2 C) or more than 85 degrees F
(29.5 C) for more than 45 minutes when the animal is transferred between
the terminal and the plane, or for more than 4 hours when the animal is in
a holding facility. However, the prohibition against exposure to
temperatures below 45 degrees F is waived if a veterinarian provides an
acclimation certificate stating that the dog or cat can be exposed to
lower temperatures. Your veterinarian cannot give a certificate allowing
exposures to temperatures above 85 degrees F for more than 45 minutes.
Brachycephalic (short-nosed) dogs may have more difficulty with air
travel.
Reconfirm your flight arrangements the day before you leave to ensure
there have been no unexpected flight changes. Arrive at the airport early,
exercise your pet, personally place it in its crate, and pick up the animal
promptly upon arrival at your destination. When boarding the plane, let the
flight attendant know that your pet is in the cargo hold. If your pet will
be traveling with you in the cabin, arrange to check in as late as
possible to reduce the amount of time your pet will have to spend in the
busy terminal.
Defective kennels are the most common cause of escaped or injured animals
during air travel. Approved transport crates, available from most airlines
or pet shops, must:
• Be large enough to allow the animal to stand (without touching the top
of the cage), sit erect, turn around, and lie down in a natural position.
• Latch securely.
• Be strong and free of interior protrusions, with handle or grips.
• Have a solid, leak-proof bottom that is covered with plenty of absorbent
material.
• Be appropriately and clearly labeled. Include your name, home address,
home phone number, and destination contact information, as well as a
designation of "Live Animals," with arrows indicating the crate's upright
position. In addition, carry your pet's photo and health information with
you on the plane for easy identification in the event the cage label is
lost.
• Be adequately ventilated so that airflow is not impeded.
Before leaving on your trip, take time to accustom your pet to the crate
in which it will be traveling.
Ask your veterinarian for specific feeding instructions. For your pet's
comfort, air travel on an almost empty stomach is usually recommended. The
age and size of your pet, time and distance of the flight, and your pet's
regular dietary routine will be considered when feeding recommendations
are made. It is recommended that you not give tranquilizers to your pet
when traveling by air because they can increase the risk of heart or
respiratory problems.
Travel by Car
If your pet is not accustomed to car travel, take it for a few short rides
before your trip so it will feel confident that a car outing does not
necessarily mean a trip to the veterinarian or an unpleasant destination.
Cats should always be confined to a cage or in a cat carrier to allow them
to feel secure and prevent them from crawling under your feet while you are
driving.
A dog that must ride in a truck bed should be confined in a protective
kennel that is fastened to the truck bed. Dogs riding in a car should not
ride in the passenger seat if it is equipped with an airbag, and should
not be allowed to sit on the driver's lap. Harnesses, tethers, and other
accessories to secure pets during car travel are available at most pet
stores. Accustom your dog to a seatbelt harness by attaching a leash and
taking your dog for short walks while wearing it. Offer your dog a treat
and praise at the end of the walk to associate a positive experience with
wearing the harness. Pets should not be allowed to ride with their heads
outside car windows. Particles of dirt or other debris can enter the eyes,
ears, and nose, causing injury or infection.
Stick to your regular feeding routine and give the main meal at the end of
the day or when you reach your destination. Feeding dry food will be more
convenient, assuming your pet readily consumes it. Dispose of unused
canned food unless it can be refrigerated. Take along a plastic jug of
cold water in case other reliable water sources are not available. Give
small portions of food and water and plan to stop every two hours for
exercise. Remember to include a leash with your pet's traveling supplies.
If your dog is has a problem with carsickness, your veterinarian can
prescribe medication that will help the dog feel comfortable during a long
car trip. Pets should not be left unattended in cars.
Travel by Bus or Train
Most states prohibit animals from riding on buses and similar regulations
restrict travel on trains. Exceptions are made for guide and service dogs
accompanying blind and disabled persons. Consult your local carriers in
advance for information.
Camping With Pets
Traveling to country settings with your pet presents its own challenges.
Skunks, raccoons, porcupines, snakes, and other wildlife can bite or
otherwise injure your pet. Keep your pet within sight and on a leash. Be
considerate of other campers. Be sure to ask your veterinarian about flea,
tick, and heartworm prevention before you leave.
Additional Pet Travel and Health Tips
• When traveling by car, pack a simple pet first-aid kit that includes
assorted bandages, antiseptic cream, an antidiarrheal medication that is
safe for pets (ask your veterinarian to suggest a product), gauze squares,
and the phone numbers of your veterinarian, a national poison control
hotline, and a 24-hour emergency veterinary hospital
• In addition to a standard identification tag (which should be labeled
with your name, home address, and phone number), your pet's collar should
include a travel tag with information on where you are staying while away
from home. Should your pet become lost, this will allow you to be
contacted locally.
• Perform a daily "health check" on your pet when away from home. In
unfamiliar surroundings, your pet's appetite, energy, and disposition may
change. Watch for unusual discharges from the nose and eyes, excessive
scratching or biting of any body part, abnormal elimination, or excessive
water consumption. Visit a local veterinarian if you are concerned about
any physical or behavioral changes.
For more Information and helpful tips on traveling with your pet
American Veterinary Medical Association
www.avma.org
United States Department of Transportation Aviation Consumer Protection
Division
http://airconsumer.ost.dot.gov/publications/animals.htm
United States Department of Agriculture Animal Care Pet Travel Page
www.aphis.usda.gov/ac/pettravel.html
International Air Transport Association Live Animals Transportation by
Air
http://www.iata.org/whatwedo/cargo/live_animals/index.html
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