Posts
By Jennifer O'Brien - London Free Press
A London woman who went back into her smoke-filled, burning home to rescue a dog was “very fortunate,” a neighbour pulled her out of the doorway, firefighters said.
“It was a good thing (the neighbour) did that,” said district chief Fritz Beck outside the home at 646 Oxford St. E. “Going back into a burning building to save a pet is definitely not worth it.
“It takes one deep breath and you’re going to be overcome,’ he said, as the soot-covered woman sat on a curb outside her home hugging Febe, the pet firefighters rescued as soon as they arrived to the burning home.
“She’s my dog, she’s my pride and joy,” said Carolyn Awcock, who was treated by paramedics for smoke inhalation.
The fire broke out in a basement electrical panel just before 6 p.m. yesterday, as Awcock was sitting listening to music on her couch she said.
After noticing smoke filled up her dining room, Awcock ran next door, pounded on the door of neighbour Julie MacGregor, asked her to call 911 and then ran back home to get Febe.
“I’m like, ‘you can’t go in there,’” said MacGregor, who called to report the fire.
Awcock did venture inside, but the building was “all black,” she said. “I could hardly see down the hallway. . . I took about for or five steps and felt around for (Febe),” she said.
She didn’t get Febe, but stumbled back to the doorway to take a breath and then began to scream and cry for the dog as she prepared to go back in.
That's when MacGregor raced up the porch steps, and pulled Awcock off the porch, holding her there until firefighters arrived.
Firefighters retrieved Febe and a second dog, and knocked down the basement fire within minutes, Beck said.
For the latest local coverage, read The London Free Press on the web or in print.
To subscribe to the print edition, click on our subscription page.
Jennifer O’Brien is a Free Press reporter.
Los Angeles Times
Perhaps you'd like to take your beloved dog with you pretty much wherever you go ... and you might assume that most hotels wouldn't welcome Fido. Think again.
Rosemary McClure reports in the Sunday Travel section that a number of posh hotels are pampering pups. Is this a wonderful treat for pet owners? Or a sign of the end of Western civilization?
While you're trying to make up your mind, consider that one of the local hotels that accepts dogs is the Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey. Not bad for a furry friend.
Photo: Rosemary McClure / For The Times
Posted by dieselsmom - Atlanta Journal-Constitution
For the last six months, I have fully embraced puppy-ownership. As a first-time dog owner, I have no problem scooping the poop, taking my puppy –an eight-month pit bull named Diesel – on long walks and even buying his expensive food. But, here’s my pet peeve: Unleashed dogs.
At least twice a day as I’m walking Diesel in our complex, minding my business, we’re approached by a dog that shall remain nameless. He’s taller, much older and never on his leash.
A few weeks ago, his owner asked me “Is your dog vicious?”
Something is wrong with this picture.
My dog is always on his leash, in my neighborhood. The other dog is not on his leash. And the owner has the nerve to ask me if my dog is vicious? If she’s worried about such what-ifs, shouldn’t she contain her own dog?
Now, I know I’m new to this dog owner thing, but shouldn’t a good owner always have his or her dog on the leash when in public, especially if the owner is scared of other dogs or worried about them being vicious?
Am I overly critical? Do you see my point? What do you think? What are your pet peeves?
How to Uncover Affordable Veterinary Prescriptions for Your Beloved Pet
by Trevor Price
If you're buying your pet prescriptions directly from your veterinarian, you're probably paying way too much. The profit margins on popular drugs like Advantix, Frontline, GlycoFlex or Program are massive, meaning you're paying a lot more than you should.
However, you don't have to pay those high prices. Thousands of pet owners have found relief for animals by buying their pet medications through online or phone-based pharmacies that specialize in pet meds. When buying wholesale or through a discount provider, you could save hundreds of dollars every year.
But, is it a good idea? How do you find a trusted pharmacy? What happens if you require a prescription? For the answers to these questions and more, read on.
Where do I find wholesale pet prescriptions?
Simply type in pet medications into any search engine and you'll be overwhelmed with options. Look for sites that sell brand name drugs recommended by your veterinarian and opt for a seller that's based in the United States and also requires proof of prescription when necessary.
What if I'm buying a drug that needs a prescription?
Typically, you will either scan and email or fax in your prescription for your veterinarian. Alternatively, some sites allow you to enter your vet's name, practice and phone number - and they will call your veterinarian directly to approve the prescription.
If your veterinarian is averse to transferring your prescription to an online or phone provider, remind them that it is your choice and it's important that you be able to purchase affordable pet medications. Some veterinarians will even match low, online prices, while others simply provide you with the prescription.
How do I ensure quality?
Again, look for sites that sell FDA-approved or EPA-approved, brand name drugs - the same ones that are sold in your veterinarian's office. Don't buy from an out-of-country provider that's not monitored by federal regulations, and stick to providers that are committed to quality pet care.
What if my pet needs medication now?
If your pet needs a prescription urgently, then it's best to purchase the medication directly from your veterinarian rather than waiting a few days for online postal delivery. Many sites offer overnight delivery, but it may not be worth the extra cost.
Compare Prices at Destination RX.Com or Froogle.Com
Try sites like DestinationRX.Com or Google's Froogle.com to compare the prices of brand-name medications at multiple sites. Just type in the name of your prescription, like Cosequin or Sentinel, and you'll get back a full list of retailers selling your prescription, along with prices.
About the Author
For helpful information about pet supplies, please visit petsuppliestips.com, a popular site about needs for your beloved pet, such as a dog bark collar, bird bath fountains, and many more!
Tips for Managing Pet Allergies
Author: Ronnie Wilson
Do you suspect that you have a pet allergy? If you do, you may be looking for ways to seek relief or you may be looking for tips on how you can manage having a pet allergy. If you are, you will want to continue reading on, as a few helpful tips are outlined below.
Although there are a number of steps that you can take to treat or manage allergies that are due to pets, it is first important to make sure that you do have a pet allergy. Visit a healthcare provider or do your own experiments at home or when you are around animals. Do your symptoms get better when you are not near a pet? If so, you may have a pet allergy. Determining whether or not you do have pet allergies can help you save a lot of time and stress, should you actually not have an allergy.
If you do have a pet allergy or if you truly suspect that you do, it is advised that you schedule a visit with your healthcare provider. A doctor may recommend over-the-counter allergy relief medications for you. They may also prescribe a medication, depending on your symptoms. Although over-the-counter medicines and prescription medicines are all great ways to seek relief from allergies, it is also important to know that there are a number of natural steps that you can and should take.
One of the best ways to deal with a pet allergy is to remove the pet or pets from your home. If you aren't a pet owner, but if you have allergy symptoms when visiting friends or family, reconsider your choice to do so. Of course, you can limit the amount of time you are there or reduce your visits, but you may want to consider doing something else instead. Shopping, eating lunch, or having a cup of coffee are all great alternatives.
If you are a pet owner who cannot bear to part with your pets, like if you consider them to be a member of your family, keep your pet or pets out of your bedroom. The bedroom is the place where many individuals spend most of their time. The last thing that you want to be doing is suffering from allergies when trying to get a good nights sleep. If you are a visitor, as opposed to the pet owner, ask to move outside, if the weather is nice. You can also ask to move to a room where the pets aren't allowed.
Vacuuming as much as possible is another great way to relieve the symptoms of pet allergies. If you own a cat or a dog, invest in a good, quality vacuum cleaner, namely one that uses HEPA technology. There are also vacuum cleaners that are designed for pet owners. They may be a good idea if you are suffering from pet allergies. Many come with attachments that allow you to easily get pet air off of bedding and furniture.
As previously stated, it is important to remember that you can suffer from pet allergies even if you aren't a pet owner. If you know of someone who is a pet owner, like a close friend or family member, be sure to talk to them about your pet allergy. Of course, they will not get rid of their pets just for you, but they may take proactive steps to make their home a safer place for you. These steps may involve keeping their pets in another room or vacuuming before you come over.
As previously stated, if you do suffer from pet allergies or if you suspect that you may, it is a wise idea to schedule a visit with your doctor. He or she can prescribe medication to you or offer other helpful tips. With that being said, if you are uninsured, please try some of the easy and affordable steps highlighted above.
Should You Let Your Dog Lick You
by Greg Kings
Do you like it when your dog licks your face or hands? Some pet owners find this disgusting. Others consider it a loving gesture that makes you even closer to them. If you are like the latter, then you may want to think again. It may seem affectionate and fun but, your dog's lick could give you more than you asked for.
To get an idea of why you may not want your dog licking you, all you have to do is think of the places a dog's tongue frequently visits. Most dogs spend a lot of time licking garbage, dirt, sticks and even their private areas and feces on the lawn. It's obvious that remnants of these things could still be on their tongue while they are licking you. Even if the garbage and feces are not in the dog's mouth, the bacteria from them probably is. This means that letting your dog lick your face may not be the cleanliest decision.
There are many health risks associated with letting your dog lick you. One of the biggest is roundworms. Roundworms are an intestinal parasite commonly found in puppies and can be passed to you through licking. If you get your pet tested regularly and give it de-worming medication every month, the risk is slim to none. Either way it's something to consider if you are going to let your dog lick you anytime they please. Some serious medical conditions can be caused by roundworms. Symptoms are cough, fever and headache.
Other illnesses and diseases can be transmitted in addition to roundworms. These include Leptospirosis, Salmonella, and E. coli. These can all be passed through the saliva. Also, strep throat has been linked to dogs licking their owner's faces. Far less likely but, still something to think about is that Rabies is also transmitted through saliva, but if you keep your dog vaccinated this should not be an issue.
Some dog owners will say that a dog's saliva actually contains an enzyme that promotes healing and will encourage their dog to lick their cuts or wounds. This fact is true, but the enzyme only works on the wounds of dogs and does not help humans at all. Therefore, you should not encourage your dog to lick open wounds or cuts on you as this will only increase your chance of infection.
In closing, while your pet passing on and illness or parasite to you is unlikely if you keep them properly vaccinated and tested, it may still be a good idea to discourage licking in order to reduce the chances even more.
About the Author
Greg K. is an accomplished writer and animal lover. If you want to learn more about dogs please visit his blog at http://gkdogblog.blogspot.com
Protect Your Pets from the Pound
By: Donald Lee
Pets are people, too. At least, that's the way they should be treated by their owners. The sad reality, though, is that a lot people own pets when they're really not ready to care properly for their little furry friends. Or they just don't know how to love, clean, and treat a cat, dog, or other animal the right and humane way. What happens to these poor animals? Many end up in shelters, lost and unwanted-to the tune of 6 to 8 million every year according to the Humane Society. At least half of those end up being "put to sleep," to put it nicely.
When they first start out looking to buy a pet, everyone says that they aren't like that, that they won't have their pet end up caged in a pound somewhere. If you want to be one of the people who says this and means it, read on. Your commitment shows you are ready to learn how to own a pet. Once you are trained in the following pet ownership basics, then you can take the next step and find the perfect pet for you.
But before you meet this furry companion, take these following tips to heart:
Go down the list of required health-care needs. This is especially important for puppies and kittens, who need an arsenal of vaccinations when they're little. But even older pets require regular checkups and the occasional medication (such as for heartworms for dogs). Before you get a pet, locate a trusted veterinarian in your neighborhood and go over all of your soon-to-be pet's health needs.
Neuter, neuter, neuter. Point blank, this is one of the most crucial things you can do to protect your pet's health. Remember that number above from the Humane Society (6 to 8 million pets in cages)? Now consider that as many as 100 million other animals, mostly cats, live on the streets. Why? Their mommies and daddies weren't neutered.
Look into insurance. Believe it or not, pet health insurance is all the craze in employer benefits packages. That's because it comes in very handy nowadays, considering the importance of pet health and how pet pills and operations seem to be getting just as pricy as people medicine. Even if you don't get pet insurance through work, look into a package on your own. While you're at it, consider third-party liability insurance, too, especially for instances such as dog bites.
Tabulate the grocery tab. Perhaps the number one thing people don't realize when getting a pet is how expensive their food can be. Figure out just how much your pet will eat before you get it, planning always to provide your critter more than enough in proper and balanced meals. Ask yourself, "Can I afford this?"
Pour attention and love on your pet. Why even bother having a pet if you don't plan to give it affection? That's the whole point of keeping a critter around, right? So when your little guy (or girl) greets you at the door after work, or wants to snuggle in your lap in front of the TV, don't push them away. Award them for their faithfulness.
Groom your pet. Grooming counts toward that love and attention requirement, but it also is necessary for the animal's health as well. Depending on your type of animal, grooming could involve a bath, the occasional haircut, regular hair brushing, tooth exams, and paw inspection.
Hop, skip, and a jump. Animals love exercise. Whether they're normally cooped up in a cage, an apartment, or, well, a coop, be sure to free them from these confines as often as possible. Dogs don't just like to take walks to go potty. Cats don't like to tear up and down furniture just to shred it. They have energy to burn, and will be better off for it.
Teach your pet proper bathroom etiquette. Speaking of going potty, it is essential to train your pet at the earliest possible age to do so properly. Of course, this doesn't mean training them to put down the lid when they're done (although supposedly rabbits can be taught to do so!). But it does mean getting a cat to use a kitty litter box, for instance, or a dog to wait until it's outside. If you don't know how to train them, learn before you own them. Ask your parents or friends, read a book, visit a chat room, or talk with the vet.
Consider a proper place of higher learning. When training becomes an issue, whether it's for potty training or how-not-to-chew-up-your-shoes training, consider obedience school. It is not a mark of shame for either you or your pet. In fact, it may be just what your fur ball needs to live the happiest, safest, and healthiest life possible.
To put it bluntly, if you can't follow these rules, you shouldn't own a pet. Buy a plant instead. However, if you're up to the task-and really, most people are-your rewards will be immense. For a little bit of responsibility, time, and money on your part, you and your family will get a lifetime of love and unconditional adoration.
Author Bio
Donald Lee is the public relations manager for Buysellcommunity.com. Buysellcommunity provides free classified listing services. Buy, Sell and trade: auto, computers, household items, real estate, pets and much more. For global and localized classifieds, please visit
http://www.buysellcommunity.com - Free Buy & Sell Classifieds
Article Source: http://www.ArticleGeek.com - Free Website Content
Fun Dog Activities
By: Mike Mathews
All dog breeds (www.dog-breed-facts.com/index.html) were developed for a purpose. Some breeds were developed to herd sheep, some to hunt game, and some to pull sleds. Dogs, like humans, enjoy having a purpose in life. Dogs like to lead a structured life and be able to associate with their owners in activities and be given the opportunity to please their owner. The following is a short list of fun activities that you may want to consider for your dog.
Dog Agility is a sport in which a handler must control and direct his dog around an obstacle course within a set period of time. Dogs must be controlled off-leash using only voice and body language commands. The handler runs beside the dog and directs the dog through the obstacle course with precision and speed - trying to accumulate the minimum number of faults (both missed obstacles and time faults). Obstacles include: A-frames, elevated dog walks, teeter-totters, tunnels, jumps (such as hurdles and tires), weave poles (like a slalom), pause tables (where the dog must lie down for a fixed time), and other obstacles. In order to be fair, there are usually classes of competition to group dogs of similar size and experience. Therefore there will be several winners at a competition. Dogs and handlers need to be very well trained and seem to enjoy this sport immensely. There are a number of organizations involved in agility performance around the world who sanction clubs to allow them to host agility competitions. In the US, some of these organizations include: the American Kennel Club (AKC), the United Kennel Club (UKC), the United States Dog Agility Association, and the North American Dog Agility Council. Elsewhere in the world: the Kennel Club (in the UK), the Agility Association of Canada and the FCI (World Canine Organization) are all involved.
Obedience is a skill that ranges from mastering everyday commands that all dogs should know to competitive exercises that require significant training and aptitude to excel. You may start out teaching your puppy and young dog the basic obedience commands and find that you and your dog have an aptitude for obedience skills that you would like to take to a higher level. In competitive obedience the dog and handler team must perform prescribed activities off leash and in a carefully defined way. If the dog has the aptitude and training it will gain skills to allow it to advance through the ranks from Novice to Open (intermediate) to Utility (advanced) competitions. At each level the requirements become more difficult and the number of exercises to be performed get longer. Exercises are all done off leash using voice and body language commands and include such activities as: having the dog stay while you walk away; follow the handler in the heel position through complex patterns; come on command; sit and lie down for fixed periods of time while the handler is out of the dog's sight; retrieve items over a high jump; and find a scented object amongst a group of identical non-scented objects. Dogs can earn obedience titles in obedience championships. Purebred dogs can compete in obedience trials sanctioned by the AKC, while the UKC recognizes other purebred dog competitions. As well, there are mixed breed competitions sanctioned by the Mixed Breed Dog Club of America and other organizations. In Canada, the Canadian Kennel Club sanctions obedience trials and awards titles.
Lure coursing is a sport for sighthounds that involves chasing a manually or mechanically operated artificial lure across a field in a "coursing" pattern. The competition is usually restricted to pure-bred sighthounds including: Afghan Hounds, Basenjis, Borzois, Greyhounds, Ibizan Hounds, Irish Wolfhounds, Italian Greyhounds, Pharaoh Hounds, Rhodesian Ridgebacks, Salukis, Scottish Deerhounds, and Whippets. The operator keeps the lure or "prey" just in front of the chasing sighthounds until they have completed the course. The course must have a minimum number of turns and is usually 600 to 1000 yards long. The hounds love to play this sport and puppies can be introduced to the sport through lure coursing practice sessions. Competitions usually consist of two runs for each dog breed for dogs that have been pre-certified or qualified. In the US, the American Sighthound Field Association or the AKC can "certify" that dogs have been trained and are eligible to enter their sanctioned competitions. In Canada, the Canadian Kennel Club sanctions lure coursing but excludes the Italian Greyhound because they consider it a toy dog.
Tracking can be learned by all dog breeds (www.dog-breed-facts.com/index.html) because all dogs use their noses to identify things and explore the world. Training can be started as early as 10 to 12 weeks of age as all puppies love to use their noses to sniff out a trail. As with all training, positive rewards (treats, praise etc,) and re-enforcement work best. The AKC sanctions tracking tests and events in the US. This vigorous non-competitive outdoor sport allows dogs to demonstrate their ability to recognize and follow human scents. In Canada, the CKC sponsors tracking events and you can check their website for a list of nearby events.
Field Trials are regularly held for Basset Hounds, Beagles and Dachshunds to demonstrate their ability to find and track game. Similarily Field Trials and Hunting Trials are held almost every weekend across the country for: the Pointing Breeds, the Retrievers, and Spaniels to allow them to compete and demonstrate their hunting abilities under a strict set of conditions. If you are an owner of a hunting dog puppy, you will want to look into many of the organized activities designed for your dog. Check out the AKC or CKC websites for a list of contacts and field trials in your area.
Other Fun Activites that you might wish to explore include flyball, frisbee, herding and drafting competitions.
Author Bio
Mike Mathews is a contributing writer and editor for the popular dog breed site: Dog-Breed-Facts.com. He provides informative, real-world advice and tips on dog breeds, dog health, dog grooming and more. As well be sure to check out his free report on Dog Training
Article Source: http://www.ArticleGeek.com - Free Website Content
Cat Health - How to Tackle Hair Loss in Cats
By Gary Pearson
Cat care means a full belly, a lot of attention and of course, a shiny, health, well-groomed coat. Every cat loves to be brushed, right? Having their long, luxurious hair brushed for hours and hours, but if your cat is shedding much more than normal when you look at the cat hairbrush, there may be a problem with your cat's health. If you are noticing hair loss in your cat, then may be a medical condition that needs treatment.
One of the most common causes for cat hair loss is simply fleas. Yes, fleas. If your cat has an allergy to fleabite, they can chew at their skin and hair to get to the flea, effectively removing the hair in that area. Cats severely allergic to fleas that can scratch their skin raw in discomfort. The veterinarian will give you medication to ease the inflammation and a topical treatment for the fleas. If you have hair loss in your cat, check it thoroughly for fleas. Chances are good that she's been bitten and is not responding well to it.
There are medical conditions that can cause hair loss in cats. One of the common is a parasite, such as mites. Parasites are a common health problem in cats. Cats with a mite infection will develop hair loss due to the intense itching caused by the mites. It can eventually lead to mange if not treated. There are some thyroid cat diseases which can causes hair loss, so it is best to consult a veterinarian to get a full physical work up on your cat's health to make sure.
Cats with allergy related hair loss could be treated not only with inflammation medications, but also with soothing medicated bathes and a change in diet. Lamb and rice dry food can increase the fatty acids your cat ingests causing an increase in skin moisture. An oilier skin can make a cat's skin less irritated and allow the cat to feel some comfort. Ensuring that there is no flea infestation in your household can mean healthier skin and coat for kitty. Take measurements to rid the house of any fleas, no matter how few you seem to have. A healthy, organic way to kill fleas is to sprinkle salt on your carpet. Vacuum the carpets the following day to remove all the dead fleas.
Following the simple cat care tips can help you and your kitty maintain a happy and healthy home environment for all. Sometimes, just a simple change in diet and exercise can mean the difference to your cat.
Gary Pearson is an accomplished niche website developer and author.
To learn more about hair loss in cats visit Life With Cats for current articles and discussions.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gary_Pearson
No comments:
Post a Comment