Archive for Pet Safety
Danger Lurking in Your Pet’s Drinking Water
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Most families consider tap water to be a safe source of drinking water for their pets, and even their family members. However, there is a dangerous chemical lurking in the tap water of most homes in America. Fluoride is a chemical derived from fluorine, which is found naturally in the earth, water, and minerals. It may be harmless in its natural state; however, synthesized fluoride, which is added to tap water, has been shown to have devastating effects to both animals and humans when consumed.
The History of Fluoride in Tap Water
Proponents of adding fluoride to tap water claimed that it was highly effective in preventing tooth decay, despite recent studies which have proven this claim to be unfounded. Successful marketing campaigns to promote this chemical as a tool in the fight against tooth decay resulted in many city governments in America and around the globe to add fluoride to tap water. An increase in the demand for fluoridation of tap water led to the import of synthesized fluoride from China, which has been proven to be contaminated with heavy metals.
Fluoride has a long and dark history as a biochemical toxin. It has been used in rat and cockroach poison, and even on human inmates in Nazi German prison camps to sterilize inmates and make them more docile.
Debunking the Myth That Fluoride is a Safe Water Additive
Recent research not only challenges the common belief that fluoride strengthens teeth, but there is evidence that it actually causes tooth disease as well as weakened bones, bone cancer, bone loss, kidney disease, and cognitive dysfunction, among other side effects.
This most recent research has lead to a major movement in Europe to become completely free of fluoridated water. In fact, European countries have almost reached this goal, as 98% of their tap water is fluoride free.
Harmful Effects of Fluoride in Pet Food and Water
A current study of components in dog food, taken by the EPA, found that high levels of fluoride were found in 8 leading brands of dog food. Osteosarcoma may be caused by ingestion of fluoride and it is the most common primary bone tumor in dogs, effecting approximately 8,000 dogs per year.
The fluoride in tap water leads to fluoride in most vegetables and meat products that humans and animals consume in this country. Therefore, it is very difficult to avoid consumption. However, concerned pet owners do have the power to limit their pets’ consumption by providing home-prepared food.
Protecting Family and Pets
There are ways to counteract the fluoride in tap water. Here are some fairly common household items that may help to remove fluorine from the body:
- Boron (only if used in a very small amount, as large amounts can be toxic).
- Kelp and Iodine Supplements (although Iodine may cause Calcium depletion; therefore Calcium should be added to the diet).
- Apple Pectin, Turmeric, Cilantro, Cayenne, and Parsley may also be useful agents in the removal of fluoride in the body.
Protecting Your Community
For those individuals who are concerned about fluoride in your tap water, there are steps that can be taken to protect your communities. First, research the annual water quality report provided by your local city water department. If fluoride is present in the tap water in your community, speak out against it by contacting your state and local officials as well as your senators. Another way to raise awareness is by educating the public about the harmful effects of fluoride on humans and animals. Many communities have become aware of the evidence that suggests that fluoride in tap water is harmful and they have moved toward fluoride free tap water. By raising awareness, your community can do the same.
By: Holly Sharpe, TLC House & Pet Sitting Service, LLC
Information provided by: “What’s In Your Pet’s Water?” by Joanne Suresh, www.dogsnaturallymagazine.com .
Herbal Treatments for Dogs With Kidney Disease
Posted by: | CommentsIf your dog has recently been diagnosed with a kidney infection, has had kidney infections in the past, or displays such symptoms as: frequent urination and increased drinking, then your dog may benefit from certain herbal treatments for kidney disease.
Herbalist, Greg Tilford, recently stated in an article entitled, “Herbs For Kidney Disease,” published in the November 2011 edition of Dogs Naturally Magazine, that the purpose of herbal support for kidney disease is to increase the blood flow to the kidney. He believes that kidneys are highly dependant upon their oxygen supply, which can be thrown out of sync quite easily by poor circulation.
Greg recommends a recipe including five herbs, all of which support kidney health and blood circulation. Dandelion leaf (increases urine flow), Marshmallow (decreases inflammation), Echinacea (anti-bacterial agent), Ginkgo (improves blood vessel function in the kidneys and helps reduce inflammation in the urinary tract), and Hawthorn (improves renal circulation) may be combined in equal parts and administered by ¼ teaspoon, for dogs weighing 20 pounds, twice daily separately from meals. It is also important to make sure that your dog has plenty of fresh drinking water as well.
Information provided by, “Herbs For Kidney Disease,” Dogs Naturally on November 9, 2011, www.dogsnaturallymagazine.com .
Written by Holly Sharpe, TLC House & Pet Sitting Service, LLC.
Lost dog in Chandler, AZ … Help find before Thanksgiving
Posted by: | CommentsCHANDLER, AZ: 4 year old tan & white shepard/lab mix. I have attached a photo. We live in Southern California but are in Chandler visiting my mom for Thanksgiving and Buster somehow managed to squeeze out of the gate in the back yard and has been missing since late Saturday night (11/20). His collar and tags were caught in the gate when he got out so he is loose with no ID. We miss him terribly and are doing everything we can to try to find him. He probably ran off after a cat or a bird and cannot find his way back to us. If you happen to see him I would certainly appreciate a call at 757-619-2445. We have to leave the area to go back home late Saturday afternoon at the very latest and it will kill us to have to go home without our boy.
Lost dog in chandler
Animal Hoarding: A Phenomenon Affecting the Welfare of Animals and Our Communities
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In cities across this country, police and health officials discover thousands of animals of all types ranging from dogs, to cats, birds, goats, and even pigs, imprisoned in the homes of animal hoarders. Victims of animal hoarding suffer from disease, neglect, malnutrition, and starvation at the hands of their owners. Animal hoarding is a form of animal cruelty that affects not only the safety and well-being of animals but public safety as well.
A Definition of Animal Hoarding
Animal hoarding is a phenomenon that has only recently received public and media attention. In previous years, animal hoarders may have gone completely unnoticed and undiagnosed. By understanding the definition of animal hoarding, communities and concerned citizens will become better equipped to stop or prevent instances from occurring. A recent article entitled “Quick Summary of Animal Hoarding” written by Victoria Hayes on http://animallaw.info , defined animal hoarding as a large number of animals acquired by an individual, which has become overwhelming to that individual to the degree that the animals are not receiving the most basic requirements for their health and safety. Furthermore, the individual is unable or unwilling to recognize that the living conditions of the effected animals and surrounding humans is unacceptable by any standards.
The Cause for Animal Hoarding
Senseless acts of negligence upon hundreds of innocent animals begs the question, “Why do they do it?” Until recently, many people thought that individuals with large accumulations of animals were simply “animal lovers.” However, experts agree that animal hoarding is a form or symptom of mental illness that must be addressed by psychological treatment.
The Consequences of Animal Hoarding
Without treatment, animal hoarders have a tendency to continue with their compulsive behavior regardless of the consequences that they face. In many cases, they are alienated by their friends, family, and communities. Furthermore, animal hoarders may face multiple encounters with the law which may result in the loss of their homes or animals, and may involve misdemeanor or felony charges. Generally, animal hoarding charges will be prosecuted according to state animal cruelty laws. In most states animal hoarding is a misdemeanor offense. However, some states consider it to be a felony offense, which may result in jail time.
The animals are the innocent victims who truly suffer the consequences of this horrific act. In many cases, they endure starvation, neglect, disease, and must live in unsanitary environments. In some severe instances, they are forced to live among and even feed on the deceased animals around them. Their fates are grim unless they are found and rescued by caring individuals in the community.
Animal hoarders also affect the lives of humans living among them and in their community. In many cases of animal hoarding, children may be forced to live under the same roof and endure the same unsanitary conditions. They may be exposed to diseases carried by the animals kept at the residence. Neighboring residences may also suffer from exposure to diseases, sanitation problems, and unwelcome sounds and smells due to nearby animal hoarders.
Raising Awareness
In an effort to raise awareness of this very serious form of animal cruelty, the state of Hawaii actually passed a law against animal hoarding. Proponents of the law argued that it would help to increase understanding among the general population, of the gravity of the offense. Those opposed to the law simply felt it was redundant, as animal hoarding is currently prosecuted under state animal cruelty laws. Similar laws have been proposed in other states, such as Montana, and New Mexico, but were not passed into law.Concerned citizens can help to raise awareness in their communities by reporting cases of animal hoarding to local authorities, speaking out in their communities against animal cruelty, and participating in local groups and organizations that fight against these senseless acts.
Information provided by “Quick Summary of Animal Hoarding” written by Victoria Hayes on http://animallaw.info. By Holly Sharpe and Kara Jenkins, TLC House & Pet Sitting Service, LLC.
Homeless Animals Rescue Team needs Donations
Posted by: | CommentsDear Friends,
Our team has been hitting it hard with TNR one to two times a week, and really hoping to see fewer kittens this spring… at least at a few of the trailer parks and motels we’re working on. The biggest problem we have run into is having the funds to get as many cats spayed and neutered as possible, and of course, also the time and “man power” to do it all. We had a garage sale this month which raised $275.00, and we were very fortunate to get a grant for one very large trailer park in Tempe.
There is a huge need for TNR at the Colonnade Motel in east Mesa, and Country Club Village Mobile Home Park. Both of these are on a “wait list” because there are no funds available for them. It is pathetic to see the many kittens scavenging for food and sickly due to intestinal parasites and lack of nutrition. We hope to end the breeding cycle for these cats and help them to have better lives. If you would like to donate for TNR, you can send your tax deductible donations made out to H.A.R.T., to our P.O. Box below. Please forward this email to anyone you know who might like to support TNR, or even help with trapping and transport. We are always accepting cat food donations too, and can arrange to pick up on the weekends.
As always, thank you for any support you can offer or for forwarding to others who might be in a position to help the cats. Last spring we received donations from two people whose employers have a program of corporate matching for charities and non-profit groups. What an awesome idea! That was a huge help and greatly appreciated!
H.A.R.T.
P.O. Box 606
Mesa, AZ 85211-0606
Jacey Brown
H.A.R.T. ~ Homeless Animals Rescue Team
* 70,000 puppies and kittens are born every
day in the U.S.
* Between four million and six million pets are
euthanized every year because they are
homeless.
* That means between 11,000 and 16,000
pets are euthanized every day simply
because they are homeless.
* An animal in a shelter is killed every 1.5
seconds.
* Only one animal in 10 born in the U.S. gets a
good home that lasts a lifetime.
Don’t Breed or Buy While Shelter Pets Die!
Crate Training Do’s and Don’ts
Posted by: | CommentsFor pet owners, a crate may offer several benefits such as: aiding with house training (as dogs do not like to soil the area where they sleep), limiting their pets’ access to the rest of the house, and as a safe way to travel. However, for a dog, a crate is much more. Dogs are instinctively den animals. Their crates serve as their “den.” Dogs prefer using their crates as a safe place to sleep or take refuge, just as they would use a den to do so in the wild.
Crating Precautions
It is important for owners to foster that sense of security that a dog feels about their crate rather than creating a mood of feeling trapped or frustrated. Some common mistakes that would cause a dog to experience anxiety while crating them would be: to use a crate as punishment, to leave a dog in their crate for too long without getting human interaction or exercise, confining puppies in crates for longer than 3 hours (which is too long for a puppy to be expected to hold his or her bladder).
Picking the Right Crate for Your Pet
A crate should be the right size for your dog, which would allow your dog to stand up and turn around comfortably. A crate that is too large may be more difficult to use while house training a dog, since the dog may have room to potty in one corner and sleep in another. Some options for puppy owners are: renting a smaller crate from a local animal shelter until their puppy is full grown, and then purchase a crate that is the right size for their full grown dog or simply blocking off the excess crate area while the puppy is small.
Crate Training Tips
Crate training should only take days or weeks depending on each individual dog. Owners should make sure that the process is a positive one for the dog and that they are going at the dog’s pace and not forcing it. Here are some simple steps to make the process go smoothly:
- 1. Introduce the dog to their new crate- Place the crate in an area where the dog is comfortable and make the crate a relaxing get-away by placing a blanket, towel, toys, and/or treats inside. The dog will become naturally curious about the crate and want to check it out.
- 2. Feed near the crate- A dog will begin to develop a positive association between the crate and meal times, if fed nearby the crate.
- 3. Start with short intervals- Owners should first crate their pets for short periods of time while still home, to get them used to the idea.
- 4. Crate when leaving home- Once the dog has shown that he/she can be crated for longer and longer intervals without anxiety, then they are ready to be crated while the owner leaves home. Owners can use a command and/or treat routinely to prompt their dogs to enter the crate.
- 5. Crating through the night- At first, owners should place the crate near their bedrooms, so their pets can feel secure that they are close to their owners while still crated. Puppies and older pets should be let out to potty even during the night, as their bladders are not capable of holding through the entire night. The owner can then incrementally move the crate further and further away from the bedroom, once the pet has become accustomed to sleeping in the crate overnight.
Potential Side-Effects
Although crate training does offer many benefits to both owners and pets, owners should be aware of some side-effects along the way. While crate training, puppies especially, may whine or cry. Although it is important to make sure that you are not reinforcing the whining behavior by letting the dog out of the crate prematurely, it is also important to give the pet plenty of opportunities to potty. One way to do so would be to have potty breaks at specific times so the pet has a routine, and knows to expect a potty break at a certain time rather than whenever he/she whines. Another possible side-effect is separation anxiety, which may be managed through consulting with a professional animal-behavior specialist. If a pet is displaying signs of hurting himself/herself while attempting to escape the crate or of being especially destructive, please seek help for your pet in order to overcome their separation anxiety.
Information obtained from Human Society 8/17/11. For more information on this topic and many others, please visit their website at: www.humanesociety.org
Merrick Recall on Wishbone Item
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Why Pregnant Women Should Not Clean Litter Boxes
Posted by: | CommentsCats and kittens can carry an intestinal parasite known as Toxoplasma in their stool, which does not necessarily pose health risks to the cats but can cause birth defects in unborn human babies. The same parasite can be found in meats that are undercooked or uncooked as well. Pregnant women who own cats should avoid exposure to the parasite by allowing others to
clean their pet’s litter box. Although the disease in cats is rare, it is always best to take extra precautions when pregnant.
For more information on this topic and many others regarding your pet, visit: www.peteducation.com
Does your pet have noise phobia?
Posted by: | CommentsWith the 4th of July holiday right around the corner, pet owners may be concerned about the stress their pets may endure due to loud fireworks. The fear of loud noises such as: fireworks, gun shots, and thunderstorms is quite common among dogs. These fears can sometimes evolve into phobias, which are defined as “persistent, excessive, and irrational fear response,” states Veterinary Services Department, Drs. Foster & Smith, Inc. Holly Nash, DVM. MS
Here are some signs of noise phobia: hiding, urination/defecation, chewing, panting, pacing, attempts to escape, drooling, lack of appetite, trembling, and barking/meowing.
In an attempt to comfort their stressed pets during periods of loud noises, such as a thunderstorm or fireworks display, pet owners may actually be reinforcing their behavior. Conversely, punishing pets for their fearful responses during noises only amplifies their fears. Instead, the best way to modify their fearful response is to exude confidence rather than fear, and redirect their attention with something they like such as playing with a ball or brushing. Medications and changing the pet’s environment may also aid in overcoming noise phobia.
For more information on this topic and many others regarding your pet, visit: www.peteducation.com
Prevent Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke for your Pets
Posted by: | CommentsHow to Watch For and to Prevent Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke for your Pets
During the summer months in the valley, temperatures can be lethal for humans as well as our pets. While outside with your dog, please be mindful of the signs of heat exhaustion, which could lead to a potentially fatal heat stroke.
Heat Exhaustion Signs in Dogs
1. Heavy panting – The first sign of heat exhaustion is heavy panting. Since dogs are incapable of sweating, their only way to cool their internal temperature is through panting.
2. Pay close attention to certain breeds – Certain breeds with heavy coats (such as Shelties or Chow Chows) and other breeds with short snouts making it harder for them to breath (such as Boxers and Pugs) are much more susceptible to heat exhaustion and should be watched closely while in hot temperatures.
3. Weakness – Dogs may experience weakness in extreme heat.
4. Disorientation – You may notice that your dog is unaware of his/her surroundings while experiencing heat exhaustion.
5. Vomiting – This may also occur during heat exhaustion.
Heat Stroke Signs in Dogs
1. Heavy panting – This is also the first sign of heat stroke.
2. Disorientation – Another characteristic of heat stroke.
3. Diarrhea – This often occurs in the event of a heat stroke.
4. Seizures and/or coma – Another very serious symptom of heat stroke.
Treatment
It is very important to spot the signs of heat exhaustion early before a heat stroke occurs, as heat strokes are often times fatal. Pet owners who observe serious signs of heat stroke or heat exhaustion should seek help from a veterinarian immediately. In the mean time, there are some things that can be done to cool down a dog displaying signs of heat exhaustion:
1. Provide plenty of water
2. Keep the pet in a cool resting place
3. Place a cool, wet towel around the dog’s neck
4. Ice packs may be placed on the dog’s arm pit area or neck area
Prevention
Some very simple steps can be taken to avoid the serious effects of heat stroke and heat exhaustion in pets.
1. Avoid taking your dog out during the middle of the day in the hot summer months.
2. Walk dogs only during the morning and evening hours when the temperature is cooler.
3. Provide plenty of fresh water at all times.
4. Never leave your pet outside, tied up, unattended, or in a vehicle during the summer months.
Information provided by Vetinfo. For more information on this topic and other topics regarding your pets, visit www.vetinfo.com
