Slim Down With Your Pet

Get your four-legged friend involved in your weight loss efforts for even more success

A pudgy pup may be cute, but extra weight is just as serious for him as it is for you—with the potential for the same health complications, such as joint pain, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes. If you and your pet could stand to lose a few pounds, you may be each other's best ally in the fight against fat. In a study at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago, overweight owners who teamed up with their obese dogs to get in shape were more likely to adhere to a weight loss program than those without dogs.
Here's how to get started moving your pet—and you—toward a slimmer, healthier future.
Make a plan. If you can't see a distinct waistline below your dog's or cat's rib cage, it's likely that he's overweight. Aim for a 1 to 2% drop in body weight per week, says Phil Zeltzman, DVM, a board-certified traveling veterinary surgeon in Allentown, PA. Ask your vet if your pet is healthy enough to begin an exercise program. If so, set a goal of 15 to 30 minutes a day for dogs or 5 minutes at a time 4 or 5 times a day for cats, says Leilani Alvarez, director of the Tina Santi Flaherty Rehabilitation & Fitness Service at the Animal Medical Center in New York City.
Walk this way. Dog owner? For the first 2 weeks, aim to walk 5 to 10 minutes twice a day, working up to 30 minutes at a time. Start with stretches (for both of you) and end with a cool-down period of slower walking, says Dr. Zeltzman. If you have an overweight cat, have her chase a laser beam or feathers on a string.
Cut calories. Confirm with your vet that your pet is eating the right formula, then cut feeding amounts by 25% and swap treats for lower-calorie options, such as bite-size pieces of carrots or apples.
Make your pet work for meals by putting his dish at the top or bottom of stairs or by using interactive food-dispensing toys. Or try this strategy to get you both moving: "I had one owner whose cat followed her whenever she opened a can of food, so she'd walk all around her house, luring the cat," says Deborah Linder, DVM, of the Tufts Obesity Clinic for Animals.
Keep your pup limber with some easy stretches. Hold each position for 10 seconds 3 or 4 times, Dr. Zeltzman advises. If your pet resists doing any of these stretches, he may have joint problems—talk with your vet.
Easy dog stretches
Back: Get your dog to turn his head toward his tail so that his body takes on a C shape. Repeat on other side.
Shoulders and elbows: Take one of your dog's front paws and pull the leg forward and up. Repeat with other leg.
Hips: Hold the knee of one hind leg and gently pull the leg backward until it's almost parallel to ground. Repeat with other leg.

Read More

What Your Dog's Health Says About You

Browsey was an adorable terrier mix with the playful energy and brisk trot of a dog half her age. Even at her advanced 13 years, she was often mistaken for a puppy.
But soon after owner Patti McCracken, of Chicago, moved to a new apartment, Browsey started acting old—forgetting where she lived and walking in odd, repetitive circles. McCracken took the dog to several stumped vets. Finally, one asked McCracken, "How are you feeling?"
Surprised, McCracken brought up the extreme fatigue, mysterious aches, and wicked optic migraines—she would lose vision in one eye for several minutes at a time—she'd suffered for the past few months. "I've been tested for everything," she told the vet. "No one can find anything wrong with me."
"It sounds like a gas leak," the vet said. "Either that or lead in your drinking water."
Sure enough, the gas company employee McCracken called later that day found that the furnace in her apartment building was producing carbon monoxide, which was sickening McCracken, Browsey, and several other residents.

We humans can share many disease symptoms with our four-legged friends.

Our pets can serve as crucial reflectors of our physical well-being, says Nancy Soares, owner and medical director of Macungie Animal Hospital in Pennsylvania. And vice versa. Sometimes the connection is obvious, as when Chattanooga, TN, veterinarian (and author of Tennessee Tails: Pets and Their People) Kathryn Primm walked into an exam room and saw a Labrador retriever so obese, he resembled a walking coffee table. Then she noticed his just-as-obese owner. A year after Primm advised the owner to get active with his best friend—and suggested that both swap unhealthy treats for green beans—the dog had dropped 15 pounds, and his owner looked trimmer, too.
The CDC estimates that about 6 in 10 infectious diseases that humans get can be passed to or from animals. So not only can you give, say, the ringworm fungus to your dog, but he can also catch things and pass them on to you. In many cases, the symptoms are similar. For instance, a pet with ringworm will get the same type of crusty rash as you might, and vomiting and diarrhea can be a sign in both pets and humans of a bacterial infection caused by E. coli or Salmonella.
But sometimes the bestowal of poor health goes in only one direction. Well-intentioned people smoke outdoors to protect their pets but don't realize that the nicotine stays on their hands and can cause skin problems and even cancer in their pets.
Learning about this and other ties between human and animal health can be powerful motivation to get healthy, says Soares. "In taking that journey together with your pet, you have a purpose—and you have each other."

Read More

8 Helpful Tips to Cope With Pet Allergies

Pets are loyal and amazing friends. They increase your dopamine and serotonin levels when you spend time with them and add structure to your daily routine. Pets are perfect for seniors and children alike, but people who suffer from pet dander allergies have a hard time coexisting with their furry companions. The incessant sneezing, skin irritation, watery eyes, congestion and asthma attacks whenever an animal walks into the room can easily remove the benefits of pet ownership.
Allergic reactions are triggered by pet dander, which consists of tiny flecks of skin shed by dogs, cats, birds, rodents, and other feathered or furry animals. Your allergies might also be a reaction to the proteins found in saliva and other excretions from your pet.
Unfortunately, your cat might be the biggest culprit when it comes to protein allergy reactions. Even worse, cat dander is so small and persistent that it’s difficult to remove. Steroid shots and medications are your best bets when it comes to dealing with pet allergies, but you might be interested in alternative solutions. The following tips will help you to minimize allergens and reduce the disadvantages of keeping your pet around. Also, be sure to consult your doctor if you have any allergy symptoms.

1. Keep your pet out of the bedroom

Consider making your bedroom a pet-free haven and you’ll reduce the severity of your allergies. This will lower the risk of allergens getting on your pillows and sheets, which could lead to nighttime sneezing and sniffling. You might also want to change to allergen resistant bedding for further protection.

2. Consider a HEPA filter

HEPA filters are specially designed to suck out microscopic and allergy causing pollutants from your home’s environment. It will remove pollen, dust mists, and pet dander from the air you breathe. The filter easily removes pet dander, which is a significant contributor to your pet allergies. The efficient, stand-alone systems are more effective that whole-house systems and certainly more reliable than de-ionizers and purifiers, which release ozone gas and aggravate your allergies.

3. Regular housecleaning is essential

Carpets are not recommended if you suffer from severe allergies, but if you cannot change your carpeted floors, you should vacuum frequently to reduce dander in the air. Changing your furnace filters will also help to keep the air clean. Some other tasks include: shampooing rugs regularly, frequent dusting, wiping down walls and staircases, and changing pet bedding at least once a month. If you could afford it, you should switch to hardwood flooring and reduce the amount of upholstered furniture in your home.

4. Wash your hands

Washing your hands and face frequently is a lot more effective than giving your pet constant baths. Bathing your pet will reduce the amount of shedding and allergens, but the results will only last for a couple days – and your cat may not be happy. So instead of torturing your pet, wash your hands and face more often to reduce your allergies.

5. Use medication when needed

Antihistamines and other over-the-counter medications will relieve your mild allergy symptoms, such as watery eyes, runny nose, wheezing, tightness in your chest and nasal congestion. Talk to your doctor to find the medication that is right for you.

6. Get allergy shots

If there’s no parting from your furry companion, you might want to consider getting an allergy shot. Also known as allergy vaccines, these will help build your immunity to allergens, which will reduce symptoms when exposed. Allergy shots take time to work and are not as simple as taking a single shot. Often, you might be required to take weekly shots for an entire year before switching to monthly shots. With time, you’ll no longer need the shots as your allergy symptoms will be non-existent. See your doctor to find out more information.

7. Learn the basics

Even if you cleaned your home from top to bottom, you might still be exposed to pet dander and suffer from allergies. Pet allergens are difficult to wash or scrub away, so you could easily carry them on your clothing and in your hair. Therefore, don’t be surprised if you’re sneezing and sniffling in places where there are no pets, such as in the workplace, in your car, and in your pet-free home.

8. Get a different pet

If all else fails, you might have to part ways with your pet. In that case, you’ll need to consider a different type of animal; preferably one without feathers or fur. Lizards, fishes, snakes, turtles and geckos are a few good options.
Don’t give up and don’t lose hope. If you love your furry friend, you might just need to make a few lifestyle changes to experience the joys of pet ownership. Consult your doctor regularly, wash your hands and clean your house each day to avoid any pet allergies.

Read More

10 Things to Consider if You Want an Unusual Pet

At some point in our lives, many of us will consider owning a pet. For most people, this might mean a dog, cat or a small bird. Some people actually own several of these pets, due to their friendly dispositions in captivity. However, there are other types of pets that are far more exotic and unusual. Although acquiring one of these might sound like a great idea at first, there are some important things to consider if you want an unusual pet.
Incidentally, it’s important to remember that what seems “unusual” or “exotic” in one part of the world might be considered normal in another. Without further ado, here are ten crucial things you should consider before getting an unusual pet.

1. Legality

Make sure you find out about this one first, so you won’t end up in a whole lot of trouble. Laws regarding exotic pets can vary from one place to another. One state or country might be very specific about what types of animals cannot be kept as pets, while another may allow pretty much any type of animal. Some laws may state that you cannot possess, sell or import certain types of fish, rodents, wild game, birds or reptiles. When it comes to primates, alligators and large carnivorous animals, certain locales may have a limit on the number you are allowed. You might even have to get a permit.

2. Veterinary care

No matter what type of pet you decide on, remember that all animals eventually get sick. The more unusual a pet is, the more difficult it may be to find a veterinarian that will provide proper care. Do some research on the ones in your area and if possible, find one that actually specializes in exotic animals and give them a call. At the very least, you may be referred to someone else who can treat your unusual pet.

3. Dietary needs

Certain animals like rabbits and guinea pigs can eat some of the same food we do, but there are special kinds of feed made specifically for them that are created with the proper nutritional balance in mind. Some animals can suffer ill effects, if this is not taken into consideration. For example, sugar gliders are generally omnivorous, but they’re also prone to a type of paralysis caused by an imbalance of calcium and phosphorus in their diet. Animals like these might require special vitamin/mineral supplements to keep them in the best of health.

4. Environmental needs

Many exotic pets need surroundings that meet specific temperature and sunlight requirements. Some animals require cages or special enclosures that resemble their natural habitat. These may be expensive and difficult to find or build. You might consider joining an online discussion forum online with owners of similar pets to learn how they’re handling these issues.

5. Psychological needs

Certain animals will not do very well if their psychological needs are not met. Although some exotic pets will do quite well when they’re left alone, others are very social creatures. They can become depressed if they’re not around others like themselves or if they’re ignored by their owners. Some can even become hostile or destructive.

6. Lifespan

Some animals have extraordinarily long lifespans. Animals like turtles and certain birds can survive for several several decades in captivity. For example, parrots can live as long as the average human being and giant tortoises can live to be well over 100. Caring for these animals is a commitment that should not be taken lightly, as they will be aging right alongside you.

7. Temperament

You should realize that no matter how much you might like your pet, some exotic animals can be very temperamental. There’s a reason why some animals make better pets than lions, tigers and bears. Remember that the less domesticated the breed or species is, the more likely it is that you’ll have to deal with displays of aggression.

8. Mating season

Regardless of whether you’re considering a mate for your pet or not, you should know what to expect when Mother Nature steps in. For example, alligators will not normally undergo any major behavioral changes. However, males have been known to become quite territorial during mating season. If you have more than one, you can expect an occasional confrontation.

9. Disease

Some exotic animals carry viruses and bacteria from their native habitats that can be very dangerous for humans. Hantavirus is an example of a deadly viral infection that’s spread by mice other rodents in their droppings and bodily fluids. Droplets containing the virus can reach the air, where people may breathe them in and become infected. Other deadly viruses spread by exotic animals include tularemia, avian flu and monkeypox.

10. Sufficient space

How much space are you thinking of providing for your unusual pet? You might have the right type of enclosure for it, but does it have room to run around and exercise? Although this can be an issue for animals of any size, larger animals need lots of space and just because you have a cage that your large cat fits in doesn’t mean that it’s getting the exercise required for optimal health.
Sadly, many exotic pets will die not long after they’re acquired, due to inadequate care. First-time owners may not have the knowledge necessary to take on this type of commitment. Legality, temperament and veterinary care are just a few of the things to consider if you want an unusual pet. No matter what type of animal you decide on, be sure to do some research on all the points mentioned above. Remember, they’re living creatures with needs that are often similar to our own and they should never be treated like mere showpieces to impress your friends.

Read More

3 Ways and More to Celebrate Our Pets on Valentine’s Day

By all accounts, Americans love their non-human companions a lot enough to spend a collective $815 million on Valentine’s Day surprises and treats for their pets. Even fish will get a new toy, just for the occasion! Is it any wonder? Who else thinks we are the best thing that ever existed? Who else doesn’t care how we look, whether we are successful in our jobs or just getting by, or whether we really know what we’re doing? Who senses if we’re feeling low and comes to sit nearby for comfort, and never doubts that we are always the most important part of their world?

It’s been proven that pets brought into medical facilities help patients heal faster and bring down blood pressure and anxiety. In nursing homes a dog or cat can bring smiles to the faces of people who are confined to wheelchairs. Well, on Valentine’s Day we can return the love, even if our pets don’t know why the day is so special. At many local animal hospitals, the veterinary staff often invites clients (and their owners) to sit for portraits on Valentine’s Day, and to submit photos of the pets wearing a special red bow or bowtie…
Animal adoption agencies use the special day to display photos of dogs and cats who have been rescued and are looking for a home. The ASPCA offers heart-jeweled cat collars and Valentine dog tags for sale, the proceeds going to help animals in need.
Do you celebrate your pet on Valentine’s Day? If you’re like most of us, every day is special when it comes to our pets, but making February 14th a special event can be fun. So, what can you do with Fido or Peaches? Or for that matter, with your parrot or maybe your hamster or turtle or guinea pig? The gifts we get for our devoted furry and feathered friends make us feel good. Our pet may not know why they are getting them, but we do…

It can be catnip in the shape of hearts (pet stores always have those), organic treats, a collar with enough bling to make our cat stand out in a crowd, assuming our cat would deign to be around a crowd, a walnut to forage through for a parrot, a stuffed animal for a small dog to use as a plaything or a trusted pal. Large dogs are better off with leather to chew or a good-sized bone.
It doesn’t hurt to surround your pet’s sleep place with flowers and ribbons just for the day, too, though the shiny items could be used as chew toys themselves before the day is done!
For your dog, of course, a walk is best of all. Not the usual one where they are pulled along because time is short, it’s going to rain, you have to get to work, your mind’s distracted, but a slow one where you both stop and explore along the way, or have a good run together. If your pet can be free and off the leash, a game of throw and retrieve is heaven. Being out-of-doors on a good day and in your company is the best that life has to give, as far as a dog is concerned (along with meal time).
 
Some people cook their pets a special food – things they can eat but seldom get, again because time is rushed. Maybe some boiled fish for the cat, cooked carrots for the parrot, or sautéed chicken for the dog.
On Valentine’s Day you may have plans at night, or perhaps you just want to curl up in a chair with a good movie (and a box of chocolates). If you choose the latter option, you will be surrounded by a tired but happy menagerie, your dog asleep on the rug, your cat asleep on a bookshelf, your parrot dreaming in a covered cage. You can trust you’ve made their day, and very likely, your own.
Do you have more suggestions about how to celebrate Valentine’s Day with or for your special pet(s)? We would love to hear about them in a comment.

Read More

7 Characteristics That Dog Owners Share

Scientists have traced the origin and evolution of all dogs (from a Yorkshire terrier to a mastiff) from the wolf. We have historical records showing dogs have been domesticated for at least ten thousand years in all their variations. This means they are very comfortable with human companions – and we have become very comfortable with them. Like their ancestor the wolf, dogs like to live and work and play in packs, and they consider us a member of their pack essential to their happiness. They also have a deep sense of protectiveness for our welfare once they become part of our lives.
Are you a dog owner? Studies are being done at universities to determine the personality of dog owners. They are apparently quite different from cat owners. But we probably don’t need an academic treatise to know this! Some things are just plain obvious… So just what are these common and very familiar characteristics dog owners share?

1. They often match the personalities of their dogs

Look at your dog and think about it – do you have anything in common? There’s a good chance you do! I, for example, favor a golden retriever, and the two of us have an essential gullibility we can’t shake. Owners of small dogs like Pugs and Chihuahuas are viewed as being both creative and possibly over-sensitive. People who choose hound dogs, which include Beagles and Greyhounds, are pretty constant in nature, not easily upset.

2. They are sure their dogs know what they are saying

This trait is shared by owners of other animals, but dog owners are especially prone to conversations with their canine friends. It has been suggested that dogs are capable of appearing sympathetic, which is probably true but not because they understand the conversation. They sense their owners’ moods faster than any other animal, whether the mood is happy or sad (cats could care less and birds aren’t paying attention.)

3. They worry about their dogs’ welfare

Dog owners often think of their dogs when they are away and feel guilty if their time away is too long. They gladly arrange for people to stop in and visit the dog, who requires human company. The cat often requires the food dish, and that suffices.

4. They shy away from cat owners

There is a certain extroverted quality in dog owners that cat owners do not share, studies suggest. It may have to do with the fact dogs have to be walked, so their owners get outdoors more often. It may also have to do with the fact dogs rarely meet a human they don’t want to check out, which means their owners often end up meeting those humans, too.

5. They admire their dogs’ behavior

At a recent competition I watched, in which dogs had to run an obstacle course, some did well and some didn’t. But at the end of the circuit, their owners received them with smiles of approval. The habit of dog owners is to praise their dogs even when their pets don’t quite manage to figure out the task at hand. Of course, give dogs a real job, like guarding the driveway by lying on it, and they are pleased to help. Their owners accept any show of guarding the house and its occupants as evidence of their dogs’ intelligence.

6. They wonder how long their dogs can play fetch

It is a mystery to most dog owners how their dogs are willing to chase a ball or stick for ages – far longer than their owners can manage to throw said items. The average dog can play the game for hours, if allowed. The average owners clock out at fifteen minutes and feel wiped out.

7. They rely on the dog’s greeting when they get home

More times than we can count there are stories of dogs remembering their owners after months and even years of separation. Dog owners also can count on their pets waiting at the door or window for their return, and barking their enthusiastic greeting as they race to greet them. This happens whether the time frame has been a few minutes, a few hours, or a whole day. It is obvious to all dog owners that they are the center of their dog’s world, which is a very nice place to be.
Are there other ways you think dogs resemble their owners, or other traits they share? Let us know in the comments. We dog owners have inquiring minds.

Read More