Archive for Pet Health
Scottsdale Dog Lives Longer by Eating Healthier
Posted by: | CommentsScottsdale Dog Owner Knows Pet Nutrition Effects Life Span
I have the pleasure of caring for a beautiful black lab in Scottsdale, AZ, whose owner is very particular about her diet. Each week she prepared for her dog, a large supply of fresh oven roasted turkey, rice, and veggies. This Scottsdale dog owner knows that her pet’s nutrition leads to a longer, healthier life. However, many of us don’t have the time or budget to prepare home-made meals for our pets, although we really do care about their nutrition. I’d like to offer some sound advice about healthier pet food alternatives, to promote longevity.
Holistic vet, Dr. Jane Bicks knows that dogs are capable of living 25 to 30 years, but the average life span is 13 to 14 years, mostly due to poor diet. She offers sound advice about the do’s and don’ts of dog food.
Beware of Conventional Dog Foods (Canned and Dry) Containing:
- large amounts of sodium
- by-products
- chemical preservatives
- artificial colors
- high carbohydrate ratio leading to obesity
- mite infestations in pellets leading to disease
Consider These Safer Practices and Food Choices
- find alternative pet foods (canned or dry) which offer low sodium, no by-products or chemical preservatives, low carbohydrates, and high protein
- read the pet food labels, and find pet foods with real meat as the first ingredient
- to avoid mites, keep the area where you feed your dog clean and dry, store your pet food in a dry, cool place, and don’t keep food sitting in the bowl on warm, humid days
My client in Scottsdale would say, “Your pets will feel happier, healthier, and live longer if you feed them nutritional food,” and she would be right!
In-Home Pet Care, Dog Walking
Scottsdale, Arizona
480-588-1364
Feline Diabetes in Scottsdale
Posted by: | CommentsFeline Diabetes: The Basics
In order to understand the basics of feline diabetes it is best to understand how diabetes develops. When a body eats it converts food into energy. The pancreas, an organ lying deep in the abdomen below the stomach, aids in this conversion by secreting enzymes and hormones to regulate digestion. One of the hormones the pancreas secretes is insulin which helps to balance and regulate blood sugar levels.
Just as in human diabetes, there are different types of feline diabetes, mainly type 1 and type 2. Type 1 diabetes occurs when insulin is not produced. When insulin is not present there is no regulation of blood sugar levels and instead of the glucose being utilized as energy in the body’s cells glucose ends up in the bloodstream. In type 2 diabetes insulin is produced; however, the body is not able to utilize the insulin, and again too much sugar ends up in the bloodstream.
Sometimes a cat is genetically predisposed to getting feline diabetes; however, one of the causes of diabetes in cats is the same as the cause of diabetes in humans, obesity. Eating a high carbohydrate diet increases fat cells which in turn secrete a substance that decreases a body’s response to insulin and creates sugar imbalances. Furthermore, cats are designed for metabolizing proteins and fats, not carbohydrates. Controlling the amount of carbohydrate intake your cat has can be an effective method of controlling diabetes. High fiber and high-complex carbohydrate diets have also been useful in helping overweight cats reach their goal weight. Proper nutrition is vital and nutrition counseling for your specific cat should be discussed and planned with your veterinarian in order to achieve optimal results.
Other risk factors for feline diabetes includes age (older cats are more likely to get feline diabetes than younger cats), gender (males more likely than females), hormone imbalances, chronic pancreatitis, and certain medications.
The most common symptoms of feline diabetes are an increase in appetite, an increase in thirst, an increase in urine production, and weight loss. Lethargy may also be reported. Left untreated feline diabetes can lead to ketoacidosis, liver disease, bacterial infections, unhealthy skin, and neuropathy. Feline diabetes does not cause the kidney disease and blood vessel disease than most people associate with human diabetes. A diagnosis of feline diabetes can cause a shortened life span; however, feline diabetes does not have to be a death sentence as with proper care and management of the condition a cat may lead a normal life and even have temporary remissions from the disease.
The diagnosis of feline diabetes requires blood testing and urine testing. Once diagnosed, treatment should begin immediately. Treatment for feline diabetes depends on the severity of the presentation. For more advanced cases, fluid therapy and insulin injections are needed. For less severe cases, oral medications, insulin injections, and dietary changes are needed, with twice daily insulin injections being the most commonly recommended treatment protocol. At home blood monitoring and insulin injections need to be performed on a relatively strict schedule. Graze feeding is not recommended as careful monitoring of dietary intake is essential in determining if there is a shift in the cat’s eating or drinking habits. Weight and urine production also need to be monitored closely for any variations that may indicate the diabetes is progressing. Periodic veterinary examinations are also necessary.
Early detection is a key in maintaining your cat’s health. If feline diabetes is detected early enough a low carbohydrate diet may allow the pancreas to recover and start producing enough insulin to regulate blood sugar levels again. This may lead to remissions and temporary discontinuation of medication. While there is no cure for diabetes, with proper veterinary treatment and consistent, loving home care a cat can lead a normal, happy, and healthy life.
Scottsdale , Arizona
Dog Care, Walking, & Pet Sitting
480-588-1364
Caring For Your Pets During Cold Winter Months
Posted by: | CommentsWhen the weather is chilly, take a few minutes to think about your furry friends.
Here are some tips to care for your pets in cold weather.
- Keep your cat indoors during cold weather, as it is very possible he or she could freeze if left outside.
- In the winter time, outdoor cats often sleep under the hoods of cars. So, before you start your car, be sure to make a loud noise near the hood, to give a cat the opportunity to escape.
- Always keep tags on your dogs, and never let them off the leash in the winter time. Dogs have a more difficult time tracking scents in the winter time, especially in snow. They can get lost more easily.
- Make sure to wipe your pet’s paws when they come indoors after walking in snow or ice. If they lick their paws, they could potentially ingest harmful chemicals such as: antifreeze and salts used on icy roads.
- Keep your dog bundled up during the winter months. Never shave your long haired dog during the winter. Consider putting your short haired dog in a warm sweater for the winter.
- Be sure to dry your pet completely after baths if you plan to take them for a walk. Never let them walk outside in the cold with a wet coat.
- Don’t ever leave your pet in your car alone in cold weather. During the winter months, your car traps in cold air and pets could potentially freeze to death.
- Some pets are sensitive to cold weather because of their age, breed, or illnesses they may have. During the cold months, limit your sensitive pet’s exposure to the weather by keeping them indoors with the exception of potty breaks.
- For dogs who are very active outside during the winter months, pet owners should be sure to increase their food supply, particularly their protein consumption.
- Provide a warm, safe place for your pets to sleep in the winter time such as a soft dog bed and blanket.
Information provided by ASPCA website. For more information on this topic and many others, please visit www.aspca.org.
Dog Walking, Pet Sitting
Gilbert, Arizona
TLC House & Pet Sitting Service
480-588-1364
Bloat – How to Recognize
Posted by: | CommentsBloat – What You Know Can Save Your Dog’s Life
It can happen to any dog, but it usually happens to big dogs. It strikes males more than females, and if not treated, can kill within hours. Bloat or GDV is similar to stomach gas at first and can be treated in early stages with a dose of Mylanta Gas, Gas-X, or any product containing simethicone.
SIGNS OF BLOAT:
- Enlarged / distended abdomen
- Showing discomfort
- Pacing
- Salivating
- Whining
- Attempts to throw up
Not every case is extreme, and the problem may go away, but if it does not, or gets worse, it becomes a medical emergency. Contact your veterinarian immediately if swelling continues or worsens. A vet can insert a tube into the stomach to relieve the pressure, but you have to get your dog to the vet quickly.
DANGERS OF EXTREME BLOAT:
- Pressure on heart, lungs
- Reduce blood flow to heart, spleen
- Cardiac arrest
- Stomach burst
- Peritonitis
- Stomach torsion, “twisted stomach”
There is no direct cause and affect with this problem, such as a bacteria or virus that a vet can treat with antibiotics or vaccinate against. Bloat is usually the result of a combination of factors that might have no affect on most dogs, but can bring about a life-threatening situation in others. Owner awareness of the problem is the first step in preventing its occurrence.
BLOAT PREVENTION:
- Eat smaller meals
- Drink smaller amounts of water at a time
- No vigorous play right after meals
- Reduce overall stress
For more information, please visit ASPCA.
Dog Walking, Pet Sitting
Scottsdale, Arizona
TLC House & Pet Sitting Service
480-588-1364
Pet Safety: Dangerous Foods & Medications
Posted by: | CommentsDANGEROUS FOODS
Many foods can be dangerous and potentially deadly for cats and dogs. Keep these food items out of your pet’s reach:
coffee grounds grapes
chocolate onions
yeast dough tea
macadamia nuts alcohol
avocado fatty foods
garlic salt
chewing gum candy
breath fresheners containing xylitol
MEDICATIONS
Many medications used to treat human medical conditions can make your pet sick. Never give your pets any medication that is not prescribed by a veterinarian. Be sure to keep your medicine cabinet locked and these medications out of 
reach:
aspirin antihistamines
diet pills acetaminophen
ibuprofen antidepressants
vitamins cold medicines
naproxen prescription drugs
For a comprehensive list of other household hazards, visit the American Veterinary Medical Association Web site.
Compliments of:PSI
Scottsdale , Arizona
Dog Care, Walking, & Pet Sitting
480-588-1364
Gilbert Dog Owner Provides Pet Dental Health Advice
Posted by: | CommentsDental Health for Dogs and Cats
Use only a soft toothbrush and pet-safe toothpaste when cleaning your dog’s teeth.
One of my clients in the Gilbert area recently rescued a three year old terrior with some serious dental health issues. She asked the vet to give her some advice on caring for her new pet’s teeth and gums. This information is really helpful for any cat or dog owner.Did you know that dental disease is the biggest health issue facing dogs and cats over the age of two? Dental disease leads to many medical problems for our pets such as kidney disease, heart disease, and lower immune systems. It’s easily preventable if pet owners are educated on proper pet oral hygiene.
Getting Your Pet Used to Teeth Brushing
- Just get your pet used to the idea by holding his head, while touching the mouth, lips, gums and teeth with your fingers.
- Gradually start using a wash cloth to rub the teeth and gum area until your pet is comfortable with the feeling.
- Then move to using a toothbrush. Start with just a small surface area at first until your pet is familiar with the feeling.
- Finally, your pet will be used to the sensation of brushing his teeth. He may even enjoy the extra attention!
Dental Friendly Items for Your Pet
- Dry kibble and dog biscuits are better for dental health than wet food, as it scrapes the teeth clean when chewed.
- There are several dog toys that are helpful in cleaning teeth as well.
- Use only soft toothbrushes for your dog’s teeth to prevent damage to his sensitive gums.
- Use only pet-safe toothpaste. Do not use toothpaste for humans, as it may induce vomiting for your pet. When looking for the right toothpaste for your pet, watch out for products with sugar, which will promote bacteria growth. Instead, opt for toothpaste with aloe vera, Chamomile, and /or Oxygene, to promote healing and reduce bad breath.
Dog Walking, Pet Sitting
Gilbert, Arizona
TLC House & Pet Sitting Service
480-588-1364
Wellness Recalls Dry Dog Food
Posted by: | CommentsWellPet LLC has voluntarily recalled 12-pound bags of its Wellness Small Breed Adult Health dry dog food with a best-by date of Aug. 18, 2013, due to concern that high 
moisture levels can create the potential for mold.
Scottsdale
Pet Sitting and Dog Walking
480-588-1364
Top 10 Things About Your Kitty’s Litter Box
Posted by: | CommentsIssues with Kitty Litter?
Cats are instinctively clean animals that are internally motivated to use a clean, private litter box. They require very little if any potty training. So why is it that your cat chooses to relieve himself outside of the litter box? There are several reasons for you to consider.
- If your cat is uncharacteristically eliminating waste outside of the litter box, it is important to understand that this behavior is common when there is a medical problem present. Urinary tract infections and crystals make urination painful for a cat. They may relate the painful experience to the litter box, and begin to avoid it. Before considering other possibilities for this behavior, first speak to your veterinarian about your cat’s health.
- Cats are very particular about the cleanliness of the area in which they choose to go potty. It must be clean (by their standards). If the litter box is soiled, your cat may prefer to “go” elsewhere. Be sure to clean your kitty’s litter box at least once a day. If there are multiple cats, you may need to consider more frequent cleaning.
- A common cause for elimination outside of the litter box is stress. If you notice your cat is going potty in random places, take note of the environment. Are stressful events triggering this behavior? Some stressful events that could cause your kitty to “go” are: a new pet in the home, loud or boisterous kids in the home, or unusually loud noises around the home. Whenever possible, pinpoint the origin of your kitty’s stress and find a solution for it.
- Cats prefer a quiet, safe, and private location for their litter box. They also prefer to eliminate waste far away from where they eat. If the litter box is in a location that is noisy, high-traffic, or there is a chance that other household animals may disturb their peace, they may choose another safer location to do their “business”. Be sure to choose a quiet, safe location for your kitty’s litter box, so he will feel comfortable while using it. Also, place your cat’s food in a separate room from his litter box.
- Studies show that cats prefer litter that has a “sand-like” consistency and is odor free. Litter that is highly perfumed may be offensive to your cat and therefore, your cat may reject his litter box. So, consider using litter that contains fewer harsh odors. (Remember that clumping litters are NOT recommended for kittens ages 4 months and younger, as they may have a tendency to swallow litter). Also, when cleaning your cats litter box, use the same consideration with regards to cleaning products. Furthermore, allowing the litter box to dry in the sun will help to kill germs and provide a fresh, clean scent.
- Also, litter box liners tend to be an annoyance to kitties and they may avoid the litter box because of it. Although you may enjoy the convenience of the clean-up, your kitty may not appreciate it. Consider ditching the liners to prevent your cat from avoiding the litter box.
- It is common for cats to prefer two different locations for #1’s and #2’s. If you feel that this may be the case for your kitty, you should have 2 litter boxes. Keep them in separate locations. If you have a two-story home, keep one litter box on each floor.
- Inviting a new cat into the home, or moving can cause behaviors such as marking the territory and stress-related elimination. If you have a new cat or a new home, you should confine your cat in one room including the litter box, bed, food and water. This will allow the cat to feel safe and secure while getting used to his new surroundings. Once the cat has used the litter box multiple times, and is showing signs that he is curious about exploring the rest of the house, you can then let him do so.
- Once you determine the location of your cat’s litter box, don’t move it or change it (except to clean it of course)! Cats need the consistency and they resist change.
10. If you find your cat in the middle of “going” somewhere in the house, don’t punish him. Instead, do something to interrupt him like making a startling noise. Then immediately direct your cat to the litter box. Since cats often times relieve themselves outside of the litter box only in times of stress, by punishing them, you will only add to their stress and cause more accidents in the future. Instead of punishment, try to discover the reason why your cat is eliminating outside of the litter box. Only then, will you be able to alter the behavior.
For more information on this topic and many others please visit: http://www.cozycatfurniture.com/cat_newsletters/cat_newsletter_2_issue.html .
Pet Sitting and Dog Walking
480-588-1364
Probiotics Found in Scottsdale Pet Stores
Posted by: | CommentsProbiotics Benefit Dog Digestion
What are Probiotics? They are beneficial bacteria that live in the digestive tract and aid in your dog’s digestion. Good news for Scottsdale pet owners as several pet stores in the Scottsdale area carry dog food containing probiotics.
What are the benefits of Probiotics? Probiotics inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria such as: E-Coli and Salmonella. They also effectively treat diarrhea, irritable bowel, and even urinary tract infections.
What are some Probiotics that pet owners should look for?
- Purina’s Fortiflora
- Nusentia’s Probiotic Miracle
- Vetri-Science’s Vetri-Probiotic
- Jarrow’s Pet Dophilus
- Thorne Research Bacillus
Where can Scottsdale pet owners find Probiotics locally?
- Choice Pet Market – Scottsdale Rd. and Shea
- Fetch Doggie Store and Kitty Too – Hayden and Raintree
- Petsmart – Camelback and Scottsdale Rd.
Information provided by “Pro” Probiotics, by Mary Straus, The Whole Dog Journal, March 2012
Scotttsdale Arizona
Dog Care, Walking & Pet Sitting
(480) 588-1364
Mesa AZ Dog Food Alert
Posted by: | CommentsMesa Dog Owners Advised of Kibble Quality Issues
Most Mesa dog owners are unaware of the harmful process that kibble goes through before it reaches the mouths of their best friend. A recent article in Dogs Naturally Magazine discussed in detail the potential health risks associated with inferior kibble food.
Did you know that processing kibble requires all vitamins and minerals to be stripped from the product – and then – they’re added back in (usually in synthetic form) to provide the nutrition dogs need.
This process of adding vitamins and minerals back into kibble is problematic for a couple of reasons:
- Vitamins and minerals added into the dog food come in what are called as a “premix” form which are often bought from producers overseas where the production standards are very low.
- Many kibble premixes are created with synthetic vitamins and minerals may cause toxicity in your pet’s body.
Research has shown that the best alternative for providing your dog with vitamins and minerals would be through whole foods. Only through whole foods, will your dog receive all of the necessary ingredients from each food in order to process the beneficial vitamins and nutrients they provide.
Next time you are shopping for dog food in Mesa, compare the labels between the leading kibble brand and a quality whole food brand of dog food.
