tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63013921633253944702024-02-07T03:16:17.333-06:00Fetch! Pet Care of Clear LakeFetch! Pet Care of Clear Lake - Professional Dog Walkers and In Home Pet Sitters in the Clear Lake area.Trisha Stetzel, FPC Clear Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258030041758544115noreply@blogger.comBlogger44125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301392163325394470.post-43565087667778501332014-04-02T19:28:00.002-05:002014-04-02T19:28:29.120-05:00Join the celebration! Pet Tech is the first International Training Center dedicated to developing and providing premium CPR, First Aid & Care programs for pet parents and Pet Care Professionals. We are proud to announce our 15th Annual Pet First Aid Awareness MonthTM and we welcome all pet lovers to participate.<br />
Pet First Aid Awareness Month emphasizes the importance of education and training and being a caring, conscientious, responsible and loving pet parent and Pet Care Professional during April and all through the year! Our theme for this year’s Pet First Aid Awareness Month 2014 (April 1-30) is “Don’t Learn By Accident...Let’s<br />
Prevent 1 Million Pet ER Visits!”<br />
Pet First Aid is the immediate care given to a pet that has been injured or suddenly take ill. This includes home care and when necessary veterinary help. Knowing the skills and techniques of pet first aid can mean the difference between life and death; temporary and permanent disability; and expensive veterinarian bills and reasonable home care. It is estimated that 1- out-of-4 more pets could be saved if just one basic skill or technique was applied before receiving veterinary care.<br />
Along with our ongoing message, this year, we want to emphasize prevention and the importance of being proactive in your pet’s health. Don’t Learn By<br />
Accident...Let’s Prevent 1 Million Pet ER Visits is about taking the initiative and being prepared with the skills and knowledge to eliminate preventable accidents.<br />
Together with our Partners we are “Improving the Quality of Pets’ Lives, One Pet Parent, One Click and One App and one eBook at a Time.TM” Our message, as always, will highlight the importance of learning the necessary skills of CPR, first aid and care for our four-legged, furry, family members. Now, thanks to technology we can have access to the information when we need it whether we are at home, hiking in the woods or on vacation.<br />
This year we would like to highlight our online training and eBook series.<br />
Our Pet First Aid Awareness Month Campaign will include international, regional and local events that will make an impact on pets all over the world. Help us convey our message! This e-kit is full of information and ideas on how you can participate and help pets and pet parents everywhere.<br />
By joining together we can make a difference! We have included some promotional ideas and suggested guidelines for a successful event. Now it’s our turn to show our appreciation to all the pets in our lives for the joy and love they unconditionally give us everyday!<br />
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Fetch! Pet Care of Clear LakeTrisha Stetzel, FPC Clear Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258030041758544115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301392163325394470.post-60248889984995772252014-04-02T13:00:00.000-05:002014-04-02T13:00:04.274-05:005 Tips to keep your pet busy while you’re at work<br />
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Every pet parent knows the guilt of leaving their pet home alone all day while they go off to work. At Fetch! Pet Care, we believe that even in your absence your pet can still have a great day! Whether it’s wrestling with a Kong for their food, finding a hidden treat or going for a great 60-minute walk, your pet can have a fun filled day that will leave them tired and ready for some cuddling when you get home. Here are our top 5 tips for keeping your pet busy while you’re at work:<br />
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1. Hunger Games: It’s time for your pet to bring home the bacon! There are great toys that make your pet work for their kibble or treats. The Kong and The Bob-Alot are great examples. The Kong has a hallowed out cylinder where you can insert treats that are almost out of your pet’s grasp. With work they can get their treats and have a great time. The Kong has both dog and cat versions of the toy. The Bob-Alot is an egg shape toy, weighted on the bottom so it wobbles around when pushed. Once the treat or kibble is inside, your pet will push it around the floor. The more pushing, the more the kibble comes out! You can put your pet’s whole meal in The Bob-Alot to make a meal last a lifetime!<br />
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2. Paper bags or boxes: If your pet has not discovered the joy of a paper bag or box then they are missing out! A simple paper bag or box can keep your pet occupied for hours as they throw the bag around, crawl inside the box and push it around the floor. Sometimes simple everyday items like these can be so entertaining for your pet. For safety purposes, please remember to poke holes in the bags or boxes, and never use plastic bags.<br />
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3. Satisfy the need to chew: Pets love to chew, so it’s important they have some great chew toys so they don’t go after your shoes! Chewing is great for dental hygiene and will keep your pet busy for hours! We recommend using nylon bones over rawhide, which can break off into pieces, get lodged in your pet’s stomach, and cause major problems. For kitties we recommend catnip mice and other fabric chew toys. Get some great chew toys and your pet will have a happy, productive day!<br />
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4. Fetch! Pet Care Walks/Pet Visits: Pets love to have a daily walk or visit from a Fetch! Pet Care pet sitter or dog walker. We can take your dog on a 30-, 45- or 60-minute walk, or for dogs with extra energy we provide fast-paced walks, designed to truly get your dog’s heart rate up and send him home “dog tired”! For cats we provide fun games and circuit training to engage your cat’s feline prey instincts. A daily visit is a great way to break up the long day.<br />
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5. Hiding treats: Our pets are notoriously curious, especially cats and small dogs. You’ll often find your kitty or pup curled up in a small, concealed cubbyhole or hidden spot. Seek out these spots and hide a yummy treat, small chew toys, or a crinkly fun toy! They’ll be lured in by the treat and then stop for a relaxing afternoon nap!<br />
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Although nothing substitutes a nice day with their owners, these tips can help your pet have a great, busy week until you’re home for the weekend!Trisha Stetzel, FPC Clear Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258030041758544115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301392163325394470.post-58091901822559560062014-03-26T11:54:00.000-05:002014-03-26T11:54:29.011-05:00Tips for Selecting a New Family PetFetch! Pet Care of Clear Lake Offers Three Tips for Selecting a New Family Pet<br />
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As more and more parents choose to get pets for their children, local professional pet sitter Trisha Stetzel recommends families give careful consideration to choosing the best possible pet.<br />
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Demographic surveys of pet owners sponsored by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) show that families with children are more likely to own a cat, dog or other type of pet. With pet ownership at an all-time high and continuing to grow, many parents in the Clear Lake area are likely to welcome new pets into their homes this year.<br />
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While having a pet offers many positive benefits for children, Trisha Stetzel, owner of Fetch! Pet Care of Clear Lake, encourages parents to choose wisely when selecting their family’s next pet.<br />
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Stetzel recommends families consider the following questions before deciding on a new pet:<br />
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1. What type of pet is best for your family? While dogs and cats are still the most popular species, more households than ever before own small animals, reptiles and fish, according to 2013-2014 American Pet Products Association National Pet Owners Survey. For families with small children or very limited time to care for a pet, animals like hermit crabs, fish or even snails may be better options. Families with smaller living spaces should think carefully before bringing in a larger dog (or even a puppy) that would require room to exercise frequently. For these families, cats, cage pets or aquarium-based pets may be more ideal. Families with fenced-in backyards and/or ample time for walking and play are best suited for more active dogs. For families seeking a dog, retrievers, boxers and collies are often noted as ideal breeds for children.<br />
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What is your budget? Caring for a pet is a financial obligation, so it is important for families to consider how much they are able to invest when deciding on a new pet. The Association for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) estimates the average costs a pet owner will incur within a year range from less than $300 for fish or small birds to more than $1,000 for dogs, cats and rabbits. These estimated costs include food, veterinary care and miscellaneous items like collars, leashes, litter boxes and crates. The age of the pet can also play a factor in anticipated expenses. For families with dogs, many find older dogs to be more “budget friendly” as they do not require the training and house-breaking items that puppies require. However, depending on the pet’s health, older dogs could also incur more veterinary expenses—so it’s important to consider the pet’s needs, age and health when budgeting.<br />
3. Who will take care of the pet? Families with older children may be able to teach about pet care and responsibility by having the children take on tasks like cleaning the litter box or feeding the fish. Parents with small children who require a lot of attention may need to consider if they have the time to devote to a puppy or other pet that requires frequent exercise or care. For parents who work long hours or juggle multiple family responsibilities, easier-to-care-for pets like fish or reptiles may be the best options to offer their families the joys of pet ownership without the time commitment required for caring for other pets like dogs, cats or birds. Families with limited time can also benefit from the services of a professional pet-sitting service like [Your pet-sitting business name]. Professional pet sitters can offer a variety of pet-care services for parents working long hours or when the families travel out of town and are unable to take their pets.<br />
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“Pets bring such joy to families’ lives,” notes Stetzel. “Considering your needs, budget and availability can ensure you select the perfect fuzzy, feathery or scaly new addition to your family.”<br />
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Fetch! Pet Care of Clear Lake is a member of Pet Sitters International (PSI), the world’s leading educational association for professional pet sitters. To learn more about Fetch! Pet Care of Clear Lake, visit clearlake.fetchpetcare.com or call 866-342-4625. To learn more about PSI, visit www.petsit.com.Trisha Stetzel, FPC Clear Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258030041758544115noreply@blogger.com0League City, TX 77573, USA29.4947986 -95.09110620000001329.384236599999998 -95.252467700000011 29.6053606 -94.929744700000015tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301392163325394470.post-25056183936955774452013-09-13T20:24:00.001-05:002013-09-13T20:24:53.410-05:003 Easy Steps to Clean Your Dog’s Ears<h2 class="ooopa-postheader" style="font-family: Tahoma; font-size: 16px; text-align: left; margin: 0.2em 0px 0px; color: rgb(51, 153, 102); padding: 0px; line-height: 30px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">Great article from petpav.com!<br />
<a class="PostHeader" href="http://icy.tc/TJwb" style="text-decoration: none; color: rgb(51, 153, 102); margin: 0px; padding: 0px; ">3 Easy Steps to Clean Your Dog’s Ears</a></h2>
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<p style="margin: 0.5em 0px; text-align: justify; ">Dogs, primarily with flappy ears, are prone to ear infections. If you <a href="http://icy.tc/TJwc" style="text-decoration: none; color: rgb(29, 95, 61); ">can clean your dog’s ears</a> on a regular basis, it can help prevent ear infections and/or illnesses associated with the ear. Some dogs have very little ear buildup and simply need their ears wiped out occasionally. Other dogs need thorough ear cleanings every week or two. Inspect your dog's ears regularly and talk to your vet about your specific dog's needs.
<p style="margin: 0.5em 0px; text-align: justify; ">You can do the following to clean your dog’s ears on a regular basis.
<p style="margin: 0.5em 0px; text-align: justify; "><strong>Ear Cleaning Supplies</strong>
<p style="margin: 0.5em 0px; text-align: justify; ">Below is what you need to clean your dog’s ears at home:
<p style="margin: 0.5em 0px; text-align: justify; "><strong>Ear cleansing solution</strong>: Look for a high quality ear cleaner recommended by veterinarians. You can also make a homemade ear cleanser (for dogs without major ear issues) by mixing one part table vinegar to two parts water. Make sure to avoid ear cleansers that contain alcohol or hydrogen peroxide, as these can cause irritation.
<p style="margin: 0.5em 0px; text-align: justify; ">Cotton balls, cotton pads or gauze squares
<p style="margin: 0.5em 0px; text-align: justify; ">Cotton-tipped applicators
<p style="margin: 0.5em 0px; text-align: justify; ">Tweezers (for dogs with too much hair in the ear canals)
<p style="margin: 0.5em 0px; text-align: justify; ">A towel or dish cloth
<p align="center" style="margin: 0.5em 0px; text-align: center; "><img alt="" src="http://icy.tc/TJwd" style="border: 0px solid rgb(183, 169, 113); margin: 10px; " />
<p style="margin: 0.5em 0px; text-align: justify; "><strong>Getting Started With Ear Cleaning</strong>
<p style="margin: 0.5em 0px; text-align: justify; ">Ideally, you should clean your dog’s ears in your bathtub or outside. The cleaning will cause your dog to automatically shake his head and the ear debris and cleaner can end up on your walls and possibly you! That is yet another reason to have a towel handy for you and your dog.
<p style="margin: 0.5em 0px; text-align: justify; ">Before cleaning your dog’s ears, take a look inside them. You can get an idea of how dirty they are and you can check for excess hair. If your dog has a lot of hair coming from the ear canal, that hair may need to be plucked. You can do this with your fingers or tweezers.
<p style="margin: 0.5em 0px; text-align: justify; "><strong>How to Clean Your Dog's Ears</strong>
<p style="margin: 0.5em 0px; text-align: justify; ">1, Begin by holding your dog’s ear flap up and squirting a few drops of cleanser on the inside of the flap near the ear opening. If using homemade solution, get a squeeze bottle or bulb syringe with a tip that is about an inch long. Then, you should gently place the tip of the bottle into the ear and give a gentle squeeze. Do not use an excessive amount of pressure when squeezing the cleanser into the ear.
<p style="margin: 0.5em 0px; text-align: justify; ">2. Before your dog can shake his head, begin massaging the base of your dog's ear (this is the bottom part near the jaw where cartilage can be felt). You should be able to hear a smooshing sound. By massaging the ear, you are helping the cleanser to fill the ridges in the canal and loosen ear debris. After massaging for a few seconds, you can let go and allow your dog to shake. You might want to turn away or hold up a towel for this part.
<p style="margin: 0.5em 0px; text-align: justify; ">3. Once your dog has a good shake, use the cotton or gauze and your finger to wipe out the ear canal. You can put your finger in the ear canal as far as it will go without forcing it. You may wish to use cotton-tipped applicators to clean stubborn debris out of the ridges. Remember, that you should never put the cotton-tipped applicators into the ear any further than you can see as it can cause damage to the eardrum can occur.
<p style="margin: 0.5em 0px; text-align: justify; ">If your pup’s ears still seems dirty, try to repeat the process. Then, move on to the other ear. Finish by wiping away any visible debris and drying your dog's head off. Then, of course, reward your dog with treats for his or her great behavior and you can be rewarded for a job well done!
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Trisha Stetzel, FPC Clear Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258030041758544115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301392163325394470.post-27162367241784666682013-08-07T11:24:00.001-05:002013-08-07T11:24:47.195-05:00The Tongue Does Not Heal All WoundsAnother great article!
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<h2 style="font-size: 24px; margin: 0px; clear: both; font-family: PragmaticaCond-Book, sans-serif; font-weight: normal; color: rgb(32, 125, 176); padding: 0px; ">The Tongue Does Not Heal All Wounds</h2>
<div class="post-author"><a href="http://icy.tc/RHdw" style="font-size: 14px; font-family: PragmaticaCond-Book, sans-serif; color: rgb(55, 139, 185); line-height: 1.3em; padding: 0px; margin: 0px; text-decoration: none; outline-width: 0px !important; ">by Dr. Jennifer Coates, DVM</a></div>
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 13px; font-family: DroidSansRegular, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.4; padding: 0px; ">Have you ever heard someone say that pets should be allowed to lick their wounds because saliva has healing properties? Veterinarians run into the notion all the time … typically after a dog or cat has been brought to the clinic with a wound that is getting worse rather than better after being licked.
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 13px; font-family: DroidSansRegular, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.4; padding: 0px; ">
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 13px; font-family: DroidSansRegular, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.4; padding: 0px; ">Like many old wives tales, there is a modicum of truth behind the idea that licking can be beneficial. When an animal is wounded and does not have access to veterinary care, licking removes foreign material from the injured tissues. Also, there is some evidence that saliva does have antibacterial properties, so licking might help prevent or treat infections under these circumstances.
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 13px; font-family: DroidSansRegular, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.4; padding: 0px; ">It makes sense for a wild animal to lick its wounds since no other options are available, but it does not follow that owners should therefore allow pets to do the same. This is particularly true in the case of surgical incisions.
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 13px; font-family: DroidSansRegular, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.4; padding: 0px; ">Before, during, and after surgery, doctors go to great lengths to prevent wound contamination and infection including:
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<li style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-size: 13px; text-align: left; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; list-style: none; ">shaving the site to remove hair</li>
<li style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-size: 13px; text-align: left; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; list-style: none; ">scrubbing the area multiple times with two different types of antiseptics</li>
<li style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-size: 13px; text-align: left; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; list-style: none; ">covering the surrounding areas with sterile drapes</li>
<li style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-size: 13px; text-align: left; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; list-style: none; ">using sterile equipment</li>
<li style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-size: 13px; text-align: left; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; list-style: none; ">cleaning our hands and wearing sterile gloves and gowns</li>
<li style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-size: 13px; text-align: left; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; list-style: none; ">donning masks, booties and hair covers</li>
<li style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-size: 13px; text-align: left; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; list-style: none; ">keeping surgical suites impeccably clean</li>
<li style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-size: 13px; text-align: left; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; list-style: none; ">suturing the wound to keep it closed as it heals</li>
<li style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-size: 13px; text-align: left; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; list-style: none; ">prescribing antibiotics, pain relievers, and anti-lick devices as necessary</li>
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 13px; font-family: DroidSansRegular, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.4; padding: 0px; ">When a pet licks a surgical incision, he is introducing contamination, not removing it. In the case of non-surgical wounds, I don’t care if a pet licks a few times before treatment is initiated, but once the area has been thoroughly cleaned and medications started, the downsides of licking once again outweigh its benefits.
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 13px; font-family: DroidSansRegular, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.4; padding: 0px; ">
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 13px; font-family: DroidSansRegular, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.4; padding: 0px; ">We now have lots of options available for keeping a pet’s mouth away from its wound or incision. Traditional Elizabethan collars work for some individuals, but others find them too annoying and clunky. See-through varieties are available, as are bulky collars that can prevent animals from turning their heads to reach many parts of their bodies. Body wraps and bandages (including some that emit a mild electric charge when licked) are widely available. Deterrent sprays can also help, but should never be applied directly to a wound. Spray the surrounding skin or use them lightly on an overlying bandage.
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 13px; font-family: DroidSansRegular, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.4; padding: 0px; ">
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 13px; font-family: DroidSansRegular, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.4; padding: 0px; ">While we’re on the topic of bandages, a well-applied, appropriate covering that is checked regularly and replaced as needed can speed healing. But when used incorrectly, bandages do more harm than good. They can cut off circulation and lead to tissue death, become soiled and promote infection, and simply hide the fact that a pet’s wound needs attention. I generally do not recommend that owners apply bandages unless they have been taught the correct way to do so by a veterinarian who is familiar with the exact nature of an animal’s wound.
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 13px; font-family: DroidSansRegular, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.4; padding: 0px; ">
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 13px; font-family: DroidSansRegular, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.4; padding: 0px; ">If one form of lick deterrence fails, try another. Keeping a pet’s sutures in place and preventing infection as a wound heals are well worth the effort.
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 13px; font-family: DroidSansRegular, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.4; padding: 0px; "><img alt="" src="http://icy.tc/RHdx" style="border: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; max-width: 100%; height: auto; " />
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Trisha Stetzel, FPC Clear Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258030041758544115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301392163325394470.post-24188581851836921692013-08-05T14:28:00.001-05:002013-08-05T14:28:48.580-05:00Hose Water Can Get Hot Enough to Burn<div class="post-header" style="padding: 5px 10px 10px; color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: DroidSansRegular, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: left; ">
<h2 style="font-size: 24px; margin: 0px; clear: both; font-family: PragmaticaCond-Book, sans-serif; font-weight: normal; color: rgb(32, 125, 176); padding: 0px; ">Hose Water Can Get Hot Enough to Burn</h2>
<div class="post-author"><a href="http://icy.tc/Q6x5" style="font-size: 14px; font-family: PragmaticaCond-Book, sans-serif; color: rgb(55, 139, 185); line-height: 1.3em; padding: 0px; margin: 0px; text-decoration: none; outline-width: 0px !important; ">by Dr. Jennifer Coates, DVM</a></div>
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<div class="post-content" style="padding: 10px; font-family: PragmaticaCond-Book, sans-serif; color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-size: 16px; text-align: left; "><img src="http://icy.tc/Q6x6" style="border: none; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; padding: 0px; max-width: 100%; height: auto; float: left; display: inline; " />
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 13px; font-family: DroidSansRegular, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.4; padding: 0px; "><em>Dr. Coates is on vacation this week, so we're revisiting some of our favorite posts from past summers. Today's post is from summer 2012. </em>
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 13px; font-family: DroidSansRegular, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.4; padding: 0px; ">Here’s a new summertime threat I had never thought of before — dogs being burned after being hosed off with scalding hose water. Ten such cases were recently reported in an <a href="http://icy.tc/Q6x7" style="font-size: 14px; color: rgb(55, 139, 185); line-height: 1.3em; padding: 0px; margin: 0px; text-decoration: none; outline-width: 0px !important; " target="_blank">article</a>published in <em>Veterinary Dermatology</em>.
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 13px; font-family: DroidSansRegular, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.4; padding: 0px; ">All of the affected dogs had second or third degree burns along their backs after being exposed to hot water from a garden hose that was laying out in the sun. "Third degree" describes a severe burn that damages both the skin and its underlying tissues. Second degree burns involve the superficial and deep layers of the skin.
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 13px; font-family: DroidSansRegular, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.4; padding: 0px; ">Cases occurred from May through August in Texas, Arizona, California, Utah, Nevada, Indiana, Michigan and North Carolina. The burns were not always apparent until several days after the incident and some resulted in significant scar formation. I’m not sure we need a specific name for this condition, but the authors propose that we use the phrase "garden hose scalding syndrome (GHS)."
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 13px; font-family: DroidSansRegular, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.4; padding: 0px; ">
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 13px; font-family: DroidSansRegular, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.4; padding: 0px; ">According to the July 2012 issue of <em>Veterinary Medicine</em>, the pathologists conducted their own experiment to test whether or not hose water could actually get hot enough to cause second or third degree burns. They filled black and green rubber garden hoses with water and set them out on the grass for two hours in temperatures between 89 and 94° F. The water collected from the hoses reached 120°F. Imagine how much hotter the water might get on a truly scorching day. <a href="http://icy.tc/Q6x8" style="font-size: 14px; color: rgb(55, 139, 185); line-height: 1.3em; padding: 0px; margin: 0px; text-decoration: none; outline-width: 0px !important; " target="_blank">The Burn Foundation</a> reports that in people, hot water causes third degree burns:
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 13px; font-family: DroidSansRegular, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.4; padding: 0px; ">…in 1 second at 156°
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 13px; font-family: DroidSansRegular, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.4; padding: 0px; ">…in 2 seconds at 149°
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 13px; font-family: DroidSansRegular, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.4; padding: 0px; ">…in 5 seconds at 140°
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 13px; font-family: DroidSansRegular, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.4; padding: 0px; ">…in 15 seconds at 133°
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 13px; font-family: DroidSansRegular, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.4; padding: 0px; ">I’ve been keeping a hose out on our back patio to water plants this summer and have been surprised a few times at how quickly the water inside heats up. I always let it run for a bit before watering the plants, figuring that they’re not built for those temperatures. The same can obviously be said for canine and human skin.
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 13px; font-family: DroidSansRegular, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.4; padding: 0px; ">So even though it may seem like an obvious recommendation, make sure to flush the scalding water out of the hose before you turn it on any living creature.
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 13px; font-family: DroidSansRegular, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.4; padding: 0px; ">Dr. Jennifer Coates
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 13px; font-family: DroidSansRegular, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.4; padding: 0px; ">Image: Thinkstock
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Trisha Stetzel, FPC Clear Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258030041758544115noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301392163325394470.post-64662911603389180822013-06-20T14:55:00.001-05:002013-06-20T14:55:58.870-05:00Spayed and Neutered Dogs Live Longer | petMDAnother excellent article from petMD!<br />
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<a href="http://www.petmd.com/blogs/thedailyvet/aobrien/2013/june/spayed-and-neutered-dogs-live-longer#.UcNeMnfQ3dM.blogger">Spayed and Neutered Dogs Live Longer | petMD</a><br />
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Fetch! Pet Care of Clear LakeTrisha Stetzel, FPC Clear Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258030041758544115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301392163325394470.post-16639219956171791562013-06-19T16:24:00.001-05:002013-06-19T16:24:42.252-05:00Safe Havens for Pets of Abused Women | petMD<a href="http://www.petmd.com/blogs/fullyvetted/2013/june/safe-havens-for-pets-of-abused-women#.UcIhjaxb8L4.blogger">Safe Havens for Pets of Abused Women | petMD</a><br />
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Fetch! Pet Care of Clear LakeTrisha Stetzel, FPC Clear Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258030041758544115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301392163325394470.post-59102305226831680472013-06-15T11:30:00.001-05:002013-06-15T11:30:01.231-05:00It's National Pet Preparedness Month!Thanks to PetHub for this great article!
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<h2 style="color: rgb(255, 140, 0) !important; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 22px; line-height: 1.2em; margin: 10px 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; "><a name="nppm" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 255) !important; ">It's National Pet Preparedness Month!</a></h2>
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<div class="madmimi-image-container" style="float: right; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 20px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 4px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; "><a href="http://icy.tc/N4if" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 255) !important; " target="_blank"><img alt="FB-June-Square" height="317" src="http://icy.tc/N4ig" style="border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; " width="317" /></a>
<p style="clear: both; color: rgb(58, 53, 42) !important; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; font-style: italic; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; text-align: left; width: 317px; ">Click here to learn more!
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<p style="color: rgb(58, 53, 42) !important; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 17px; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 1.3em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left; vertical-align: top; ">June is National Pet Preparedness Month, and PetHub is proud to partner with American Humane Association to help provide tools and education for pet parents to help them prepare for the worst and protect their pets.
<p style="color: rgb(58, 53, 42) !important; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 17px; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 1.3em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left; vertical-align: top; ">For a limited time, you can pick up one of our brand new <a href="http://icy.tc/N4ih" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 255) !important; " target="_blank">NFC-capable Tap Tags at an incredible price</a>, and also get an Emergency and Disaster Preparedness Guide for Pets from <em>The Preventive Vet</em>!
<p style="color: rgb(58, 53, 42) !important; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 17px; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 1.3em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left; vertical-align: top; ">In addition...a portion of <a href="http://icy.tc/N4ii" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 255) !important; " target="_blank">every sale will benefit American Humane Association</a> and their Red Star Rescue Team, who is right now on the ground in Oklahoma, helping displaced pets from the recent string of devastating tornadoes.
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Fetch! Pet Care of Clear Lake<br />
AllMyPets Total WellnessTrisha Stetzel, FPC Clear Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258030041758544115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301392163325394470.post-42337830528086121932013-06-12T10:37:00.001-05:002013-06-12T10:37:10.883-05:00It’s Difficult to Regulate Diabetic Cats | petMDThis is another excellent article by Dr. Coates!<br />
<a href="http://www.petmd.com/blogs/fullyvetted/2013/june/its-difficult-to-regulate-diabetic-pets#.UbiVg2nVyUo.blogger">It’s Difficult to Regulate Diabetic Cats | petMD</a><br />
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Fetch! Pet Care of Clear LakeTrisha Stetzel, FPC Clear Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258030041758544115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301392163325394470.post-34796873325333356662013-06-11T13:25:00.001-05:002013-06-11T13:25:06.341-05:00How to ... Treat Diarrhea at Home | petMD<a href="http://www.petmd.com/blogs/fullyvetted/2013/june/how-to-treat-diarrhea-at-home#.Ubdra-vxYI8.blogger">How to ... Treat Diarrhea at Home | petMD</a>
Fetch! Pet Care of Clear LakeTrisha Stetzel, FPC Clear Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258030041758544115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301392163325394470.post-15307158163082020652013-06-06T09:54:00.001-05:002013-06-06T09:54:01.740-05:00Hurricane Season is Here!This great article provided by HSPCA!
<p style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span class="headline" style="font-weight: bold; font-size: 14pt; color: rgb(0, 51, 102); ">Are You Prepared?</span><br />
<span class="byline" style="font-style: italic; ">Friday, May 31, 2013</span>
<p class="subheading" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 51, 102); background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">Protect Your Pets/Livestock During a Hurricane
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<td style="font-size: 10pt; text-align: center; "><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">Share this story with your friends <br />
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<p style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">The 2013 Atlantic hurricane season begins on June 1<sup>st</sup> and runs through November 30<sup>th</sup>. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has predicted an extremely active season with a 70% chance of 13 to 20 named storms. Approximately 7 to 11 of these storms could become hurricanes. The Houston Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is urging pet owners to prepare for disaster! Houston SPCA President Patricia Mercer says the best way to protect your family is to have a plan in place before disaster strikes.
<p style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">Photograph each pet and store these pictures with other important documents in sealed/waterproof plastic bags. Make sure that all animals are up-to-date on their vaccinations. All dogs and cats should wear collars and identification tags with current information. Mercer says, “It’s also a good idea to include the name and phone number of a friend OUTSIDE the greater Houston area in case local phone service is not functioning immediately following a disaster.” Dogs should wear nylon or leather collars only. Never place tags on training collars or choke chains. Cats should wear a breakaway/safety collar.
<p style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">The Houston SPCA also encourages families to pack a portable pet disaster kit to include food, water, medication, vaccination records and cleaning supplies. Make sure your pet has a safe traveling carrier that has been labeled with your emergency contact information. You should plan on enough supplies for at least two weeks. Take your pet’s favorite toy or blanket with you to help minimize his/her stress.
<p style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">If you must evacuate, take your pet with you! If conditions are unsafe for people, they are unsafe for pets. Pet owners should identify an evacuation route and make temporary housing arrangements before a storm hits. This often means finding a boarding facility or animal shelter out of the evacuation area and in the area where the family will be staying.
<p style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">It is particularly important to plan for horses and other farm animals. Their size, shelter and transportation needs make planning crucial.
Trisha Stetzel, FPC Clear Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258030041758544115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301392163325394470.post-21427267643821948202013-06-04T12:54:00.001-05:002013-06-04T12:54:44.742-05:00Why Does My Dog Dig from Dogster.comFrom Dogster.com<br />
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<p style="margin: 0px 0px 1em; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; line-height: 1.5em; max-width: none; ">There are many reasons dogs create unattractive holes in your backyard -- unattractive to you, anyway -- though one of them is not to irritate you, as many people seem to mistakenly believe. Here are just a few reasons your dog is trying to make it to China before you get home from work (followed by how a little training can change that):
<ul class="ul1" style="margin: 0px 0px 1.618em 1.618em; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; list-style-position: initial; list-style-image: initial; line-height: 1.618em; max-width: none; ">
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 15px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; ">It’s FUN.</li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 15px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; ">They are pretty sure they smelled a mole or some other varmint down deep, and they feel it is best to dig to be sure.</li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 15px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; ">They are bored and unsupervised.</li>
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<span class="embedded-Media-image-caption" style="margin: 5px 10px 0px 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(85, 85, 85); display: block; line-height: 1em; font-style: italic; text-align: center; ">Trinket decided to help me with the gardening.</span></div>
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<ul class="ul1" style="margin: 0px 0px 1.618em 1.618em; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; list-style-position: initial; list-style-image: initial; line-height: 1.618em; max-width: none; ">
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 15px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; ">They are hiding a yummo treat to save for later munching.</li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 15px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; ">Dirt tastes good to some dogs. Don’t be surprised. Some dogs like the taste of dog poop.</li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 15px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; ">They are harking back to their wolf ancestry and creating a denlike space for themselves.</li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 15px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; ">They hate your garden design skills and want to surprise you with a makeover.</li>
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<p style="margin: 0px 0px 1em; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; line-height: 1.5em; max-width: none; ">That last was to see who is paying attention! Now that I have you, I want to share a sad story that illustrates why humans with our bigger brains need to teach our dogs not to dig -- or, if we can’t do that, at least we can show them where they are allowed to dig.
<p style="margin: 0px 0px 1em; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; line-height: 1.5em; max-width: none; ">My husband and I bought our first rural property with high hopes of enjoying the quiet country life. Within two months, our new, five-acre rural life was shattered by the sound of gunshots, followed by the yelping of one of my beloved <a href="http://icy.tc/NIyH" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 15px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; outline: none; color: rgb(70, 165, 70); text-decoration: none; -webkit-transition: none 0ms ease; " target="_self">German Shepherds</a>.
<p style="margin: 0px 0px 1em; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; line-height: 1.5em; max-width: none; ">I had talked the local shelter onto letting me pull a handsome, young German Shepherd named Zeke on the day he was scheduled to be euthanized. They believed he would bite. I wasn’t a professional trainer yet, but I had been around Shepherds all my life, and I knew I could trust this gentle soul. I was right; he was a gentle giant.
<p style="margin: 0px 0px 1em; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; line-height: 1.5em; max-width: none; ">A few weeks after getting him home, Zeke’s right eye started to cloud up. The vet took X-rays and told me that he had buckshot in his eye. I called the shelter and asked if they had any additional information about him, since was an owner surrender. It turns out that Zeke had a liking for raw chicken, and his “loving” owner tried to teach him to stop that behavior by unloading buckshot into Zeke’s head. When that failed, the brilliant man dumped him at a high-kill shelter.
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<p style="margin: 0px 0px 1em; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; line-height: 1.5em; max-width: none; ">Zeke loved other dogs and fit right in with my other two German Shepherds. He took a special liking to my current foster dog, a little<a href="http://icy.tc/NIyJ" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 15px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; outline: none; color: rgb(70, 165, 70); text-decoration: none; -webkit-transition: none 0ms ease; " target="_blank"> Jack Russell </a>mix I named Pogo for her jumping abilities. It turns out that Pogo had another skill I was unaware of: digging.
<p style="margin: 0px 0px 1em; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; line-height: 1.5em; max-width: none; ">My first night alone in our new home (my husband was out of town at his grandmother’s funeral), I came home after dark from a long, stressful day at the office. I drove up to the house expecting to be greeted by my dogs. They had a doggie door and could roam the five tightly-fenced acres during the day.
<p style="margin: 0px 0px 1em; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; line-height: 1.5em; max-width: none; ">No dogs were in sight. I grabbed a flashlight and started looking for them, calling frantically and running around our property still in my work heels. My pantyhose got ripped on trees, but I didn’t care; I was in a panic to find my dogs.
<p style="margin: 0px 0px 1em; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; line-height: 1.5em; max-width: none; ">I saw the neighbor’s car lights. I heard him shoot his gun twice and then heard what I knew was Zeke yelping twice. And then, silence. Suddenly my other dogs, including Pogo, were at my side. Zeke wasn’t with them. I knew he was dead.
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<div style="margin: 2px 2px -6px 4px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 16px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: url(http://icy.tc/NIx5); width: 58px; height: 24px; display: inline-block; background-position: 58px 0px; background-repeat: initial initial; "> </div>
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<span class="embedded-Media-image-caption" style="margin: 5px 10px 0px 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(85, 85, 85); display: block; line-height: 1em; font-style: italic; text-align: center; ">A sand box -- not the beach -- will let your dog dig as deep as he wants. <a href="http://icy.tc/NIyL" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; outline: none; color: rgb(70, 165, 70); -webkit-transition: none 0ms ease; ">Dog writes his name on beach</a> by Shutterstock</span></div>
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<p style="margin: 0px 0px 1em; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; line-height: 1.5em; max-width: none; ">I knew my neighbor had a goat pen, so I called the sheriff. He came last to my house to let me know that my neighbor wouldn’t press charges against me, which he could have because the pet goats had more rights as livestock animals than did Zeke.
<p style="margin: 0px 0px 1em; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; line-height: 1.5em; max-width: none; ">The neighbor dumped my bloodied dog over the fence. I found him there the next morning as I was trying to figure out how the dogs got out of our secure yard. Near his body, I saw the hole. Pogo had dug out, and the other dogs had followed her. She dug another hole for them all to come back (all except Zeke).
<p style="margin: 0px 0px 1em; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; line-height: 1.5em; max-width: none; ">I spent the next year paying the neighbor back in small, vengeful ways. I threw dog feces over the fence nearly every day, right where he dumped Zeke. I added cactus and even shovelfuls of fire ants. I cursed him and I hated him. <span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 15px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; line-height: 1.538em; ">But what I should have been doing is ensuring that Pogo nor any other foster dog could ever dig out of my property again. </span>
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<div style="margin: 2px 2px -6px 8px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 16px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: url(http://icy.tc/NIx5); width: 68px; height: 24px; display: inline-block; background-position: 0px 0px; background-repeat: initial initial; "> </div>
<div style="margin: 2px 2px -6px 4px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 16px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: url(http://icy.tc/NIx5); width: 58px; height: 24px; display: inline-block; background-position: 58px 0px; background-repeat: initial initial; "> </div>
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<span class="embedded-Media-image-caption" style="margin: 5px 10px 0px 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(85, 85, 85); display: block; line-height: 1em; font-style: italic; text-align: center; ">Trinket digs to China, looking for critters.</span></div>
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<p style="margin: 0px 0px 1em; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; line-height: 1.5em; max-width: none; ">Here’s what I now know about digging. I share these tips with you in hopes of saving others the same heartbreak I experienced:
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<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 15px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; ">A bored or unsupervised dog is more likely to dig than a well-exercised dog. My dogs do not stay outside -- even with a highly secured fence -- unless I am home.</li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 15px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; ">Know your breeds. Pogo was a Jack Russell mix, a sturdy, tenacious breed of dog put on the planet to hunt fox ... and to burrow into the earth.</li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 15px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; ">If you have a committed digger, build her a sandbox and teach her that is the spot to dig if she wants to. Bury frozen treats only in that area to encourage her digging in the sandbox. </li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 15px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; ">Don’t give your digger dog treats he can’t eat in one session, to stop him from burying them to eat later. </li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 15px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; ">If your dog digs because he is anxious that you are not with him, hire a qualified canine behaviorist. </li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 15px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; ">Never punish digging, especially if you find the hole hours after the dog did his artwork. When you do catch your pup in the act, redirect him back to the appointed sandbox.</li>
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<p style="margin: 0px 0px 1em; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; line-height: 1.5em; max-width: none; ">I miss Zeke a lot. I failed him and Pogo by allowing an escape to occur. Since that night, I’ve never had another dog get out of my property, and I’ve fostered more than 400 dogs. It was a painful lesson, but I learned from it.
<p style="margin: 0px 0px 1em; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; line-height: 1.5em; max-width: none; ">If you have a digger, it’s up to you to redirect your dog’s behavior to an activity that you do approve of. Don’t delay -- and don’t believe your dog will outgrow his favorite activity. I urge you to be proactive. I don't want to hear another story as sad as what happened to Zeke and me.
<p style="margin: 0px 0px 1em; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; line-height: 1.5em; max-width: none; ">P.S. My neighbor finally moved away. He never could figure out how so many fire ants ended up on his property or why he had so much dog poop by his fences.
<p style="margin: 0px 0px 1em; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; line-height: 1.5em; max-width: none; "><em style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; "><strong style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; ">Read more on training by Annie Phenix:</strong></em>
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<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 15px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; "><strong style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; "><a href="http://icy.tc/NIyN" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; outline: none; color: rgb(70, 165, 70); -webkit-transition: none 0ms ease; line-height: 1.538em; ">Have You Ever Met a Dog Who Is Terrified of Leashes?</a></strong></li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 15px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; "><strong style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; "><a href="http://icy.tc/NIyN" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; outline: none; color: rgb(70, 165, 70); -webkit-transition: none 0ms ease; line-height: 1.538em; ">8 Things I've Learned from My Dog-Training Clients</a></strong></li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 15px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; "><strong style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; "><a href="http://icy.tc/NIyO" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; outline: none; color: rgb(70, 165, 70); -webkit-transition: none 0ms ease; line-height: 1.538em; ">What Loving My Dogs Taught Me About Empathy</a></strong></li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 15px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; "><strong style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; "><a href="http://icy.tc/NIyP" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; outline: none; color: rgb(70, 165, 70); -webkit-transition: none 0ms ease; line-height: 1.538em; ">You'd Think a Trainer Would Have Perfect Dogs, Right? Hah!</a></strong></li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 15px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; "><strong style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; "><a href="http://icy.tc/NIyQ" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; outline: none; color: rgb(70, 165, 70); -webkit-transition: none 0ms ease; line-height: 1.538em; ">5 Days with a German Shepherd Puppy Nearly Beat This Trainer</a></strong></li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 15px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; "><strong style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; "><a href="http://icy.tc/NIyR" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; outline: none; color: rgb(70, 165, 70); -webkit-transition: none 0ms ease; line-height: 1.538em; ">Train Your Dog for Perfect Loose Leash Walking</a></strong></li>
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Trisha Stetzel, FPC Clear Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258030041758544115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301392163325394470.post-38375108080407079652013-05-10T12:02:00.002-05:002013-05-10T12:02:43.123-05:00Fetch! Pet Care of Clear Lake Offers New Life Saving Service to Clients and CommunityLEAGUE CITY, TX, May 10, 2013 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Fetch! Pet Care of Clear Lake, owned by Trisha Stetzel, has been servicing the local pet community since 2008 with best in class pet sitting and dog walking services. Trisha Stetzel became a certified PetTech PetSaver Pet First Aid & CPR instructor in February of this year. She is now offering these life-saving courses to her clients as well as the local community, other pet service businesses, and volunteer pet organizations.<br />
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One out of every four dogs may be saved if a pet first-aid technique is used before the injured animal arrives at a clinic, according to the American Animal Hospital Association. "Less than 1 percent of pet owners, however, have a pet first-aid kit or have been trained in first aid," notes Stetzel.<br />
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Trisha's love for animals and her pet sitting business led her to PetTech for the PetSaver certification in 2008 and she has upheld her certification since. The opportunity to teach PetTech's PetSaver and Pet First Aid & CPR Courses presented itself and Trisha jumped at the chance to become a certified instructor. <br />
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The Pet Tech Instructor Training is a comprehensive, three-day, interactive program. Instructors learn the necessary skills and teaching methods to properly train pet owners and pet professionals in first aid and care. The course includes competent training in the identification and evaluation of the signs and symptoms a pet may develop and the appropriate actions to be taken for proper emergency medical treatment.<br />
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Trisha's classes are available monthly all over the Houston area, Clear Lake, and Galveston. For additional information about the classes, scheduling or PetTech, please call 281-217-4951 or visit http://www.allmypetstotalwellness.com.<br />
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Fetch! Pet Care of Clear LakeTrisha Stetzel, FPC Clear Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258030041758544115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301392163325394470.post-73642130546762310832013-05-03T21:25:00.001-05:002013-05-03T21:25:12.722-05:00Are you prepared to act in an emergency for your best friend?
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Are you prepared to act in an emergency for your best friend?
<br />
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According to the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) 1-out-of-4 more pets would survive if just one pet first aid technique was applied prior to getting emergency veterinary care.
The 8-hour PetSaver Training will give you the confidence to know you are prepared to act in the event of an emergency. PetSaver instruction is a one-day course designed for pet parents and pet care professionals.
You will learn:<br />
• ABC's of Pet First Aid<br />
• Assessing your pet's vitals<br />
• Rescue Breathing<br />
• Canine and Feline CPR<br />
• Snout-to-Tail Assessment<br />
• How to help your pet in a medical emergency<br />
• Caring for your Senior "Pet-izen"<br />
• Proper pet dental care<br />
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The class includes our PetSaver handbook, a certificate upon successful completion, and a 2-year certification.
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We have a special class scheduled just for you! <br />
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Galveston Island Humane Society is hosting a class on Saturday 5/11 from 10am-6pm. The cost is $125 per student and a portion of the proceeds will go back to GIHS!<br />
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Please visit the following link to reserve your seat now <br />
http://www.pettech.net/schedule/regclass.php?classid=1344<br />
Paypal and credit card (MC, Visa, AmEx) accepted<br />
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We look forward to meeting you!<br />
Trisha Stetzel PTI #1767<br />
Certified PetTech PetSaver, First Aid & CPR Instructor<br />
281-217-4951<br />
info@allmypetstotalwellness.com<br />
www.allmyetstotalwellness.com<br />
<br />
Fetch! Pet Care of Clear Lake &<br />
AllMyPets Total WellnessTrisha Stetzel, FPC Clear Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258030041758544115noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301392163325394470.post-48893564250935856082013-04-01T20:19:00.001-05:002013-04-01T20:19:12.230-05:00Shop Amazon.com And Help The Houston SPCA - Houston SPCA<a href="http://www.houstonspca.org/site/News2?page=NewsArticle&id=29445#.UVox_bdqp64.blogger">Shop Amazon.com And Help The Houston SPCA - Houston SPCA</a><br />
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AllMyPets Total Wellness<br />
Fetch! Pet Care of Clear LakeTrisha Stetzel, FPC Clear Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258030041758544115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301392163325394470.post-127319816054997442013-04-01T20:15:00.001-05:002013-04-01T20:15:05.578-05:00Pet First Aid Awareness Month<a href="http://www.petsit.com/pet-first-aid-awareness-month#.UVow_Da_uMI.blogger">Pet First Aid Awareness Month</a><br />
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Fetch! Pet Care of Clear LakeTrisha Stetzel, FPC Clear Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258030041758544115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301392163325394470.post-48730573131023011052013-03-13T21:00:00.000-05:002013-03-13T21:00:00.997-05:00PetTech PetSaver First Aid & CPRAre you prepared to act in an emergency for your best friend?<br />
<br />
<br />
According to the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) 1-out-of-4 more pets would survive if just one pet first aid technique was applied prior to getting emergency veterinary care.<br />
<br />
The 8-hour PetSaver Training will give you the confidence to know you are prepared to act in the event of an emergency. PetSaver instruction is a one-day course designed for pet parents and pet care professionals.<br />
<br />
You will learn:<br />
ABC's of Pet First Aid<br />
Assessing your pet's vitals<br />
Rescue Breathing<br />
Canine and Feline CPR<br />
Snout-to-Tail Assessment<br />
How to help your pet in a medical emergency<br />
Caring for your Senior "Pet-izen"<br />
Proper pet dental care<br />
The class includes our PetSaver handbook, a certificate upon successful completion, and a 2-year certification.<br />
<br />
Visit www.allmypetstotalwellness.com for class schedules and registration information.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs9pslEnz2-caUwNIrgC26POT0kSur01DW3_wuUI31f6giJ4yX8jHvbxz0hyphenhyphenri7OikZ1lpnQxSqUFvsdxO8uFMtxJOpJVcsOp0OoKr9xdh7D2ricsJKQFUwZUriUcOOrXRYy9YlxlOSr0a/s1600/Pet_Tech_Logo_2010_sm.png" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs9pslEnz2-caUwNIrgC26POT0kSur01DW3_wuUI31f6giJ4yX8jHvbxz0hyphenhyphenri7OikZ1lpnQxSqUFvsdxO8uFMtxJOpJVcsOp0OoKr9xdh7D2ricsJKQFUwZUriUcOOrXRYy9YlxlOSr0a/s320/Pet_Tech_Logo_2010_sm.png" /></a><br />
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AllMyPets Total Wellness<br />
Fetch! Pet Care of Clear LakeTrisha Stetzel, FPC Clear Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258030041758544115noreply@blogger.com0League City, TX 77573, USA29.4947986 -95.09110620000001329.384236599999998 -95.252467700000011 29.6053606 -94.929744700000015tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301392163325394470.post-87237967562549754852013-03-13T18:35:00.003-05:002013-03-13T18:43:46.424-05:00Time to blog again! Pet Care and Pet First AidIt's been a while, but time to get back to the blog! I'm so excited to share that I am not a certified PetTech PetSaver First Aid & CPR Instructor! I hope to have lots of great stories about my classes for my blog in the future! It you'd like more information about my classes please visit www.AllMyPetsTotalWellnes.com Here's to a new year and a full blog! Fetch! Pet Care of Clear Lake AllMyPets Total WellnessTrisha Stetzel, FPC Clear Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258030041758544115noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301392163325394470.post-63173369269003385952012-02-09T13:22:00.001-06:002012-02-09T13:23:44.140-06:00Thank you to Catster for the awesome article following<br /><br />Animal lovers all know about the Rainbow Bridge. We hold on to the idea with every bit of our hearts, knowing that one day we’ll be reunited with all the pets we’ve ever lost. Everyone will be happy, healthy, and young and cross over to Heaven together.<br /><br />Whatever your religion, it’s a beautiful story and, I’m 100% sure, the most beautiful place ever.<br /><br />But what does the Rainbow Bridge look like? I picture it a certain way, and I’m sure many of you have your own visions. I think of it kind of like this: All the animals in a big, giant field just kind of frolicking and playing together with a rainbow in the background. There’s no real “bridge,” but I guess we all walk over the rainbow together. When I show up, my past pets somehow know I’ve arrived and are up front waiting for me. I’ve had some happy moments in my life, but that moment will probably trump every single one of them.<br /><br /><br />Something like my Rainbow Bridge<br /><br />Other people envision an actual bridge, like a wooden bridge. Some think of it as a huge rainbow on which all the pets are waiting. And there are some who picture just a beautiful place, full of trees and flowers and pets.<br /><br />What does the Rainbow Bridge look to you? I’d love to know what you see when you think of it. Here’s the poem, in case you haven’t heard of it before.<br /><br />The Rainbow Bridge<br /><br />Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.<br /><br />When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge.<br />There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together.<br />There is plenty of food, water, and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.<br /><br />All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by.<br />The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.<br /><br />They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent; His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.<br /><br />You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.<br /><br />Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together….<br /><br />Author unknown<br /><br /> <br />« Previous Article<br />Catster’s Style Picks of the Week: A Pop of ColorNext Article »<br />My iPhone Has Ears Now, and Hello Kitty Just Got Deported!<br /><br /><br />Fetch! Pet Care of Clear LakeTrisha Stetzel, FPC Clear Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258030041758544115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301392163325394470.post-75008271324438100532012-02-07T22:44:00.002-06:002012-02-07T22:51:12.332-06:00Cat Urination BehaviorCat Urination Behavior<br /><br />Most people who are talking about or inquiring about cat urination behavior are having some undesirable issues at home. No one really discusses this when their kitty is using the litter box as they should. It's when they start doing their business right outside the litter box, on the couch or on your laundry in the bottom of the closet that it becomes a concern.<br /><br />Believe it or not, if you are troubled with house-soiling, you are certainly not alone. This is the most common behavioral problem that cat owners have to deal with. Interestingly, many people think that it's for revenge. Well, contrary to popular belief, it's not all about you! It could be completely coincidental that your cat urinated on the carpet at the same time you decided to go away for a few days. Then again, maybe the neighbor you had watching him forgot to give him his treats!<br /><br />In all truthfulness, experts say that cats do not have cognitive abilities to calculate such revenge. It's also important to understand that your cat would have to think that relieving himself is a negative act if revenge was the case when really, it's only their human owners who view these acts this way.<br /><br />Litter Box Issues<br /><br />It is quite common for cats to avoid their litter box for one reason or another. Their behavior could be the result of:<br /><br />• Changing Litter - Some litter irritates certain cats. This could be due to texture or even going from non-scented to scented. Some even make an unpleasant dust cloud that your cat may not care for.<br /><br />• Dirty - Would you want to step over your own soiled areas to relieve yourself? Well, neither does your cat. Sometimes even felines who were fine with their litter box being cleaned once a day get a little more fussy as they age and need it cleaned more often.<br /><br />• Location - Have you moved the litter box? If not, have you moved something close to it like suitcases, sporting equipment, etc.? Cats can be very sensitive to changes in their surroundings.<br /><br />Medical Issues<br /><br />Many people get so caught up in thinking that their cat is being vindictive that they fail to realize that there could be health concerns. Urinary tract infections are often to blame which can cause frequent urination. In this case, it's often hard for the cat to get to the litter box in time.<br />Also, liver, thyroid and kidney diseases, intestinal tract tumors or parasites and rectum or colon inflammation can be to blame as well. It's also important to understand that as cats get older, age-related issues like muscular disease, disorders of the nervous system and arthritis can all make getting in and out of the litter box a challenge.<br /><br />Additional Cat<br /><br />Have you brought in another cat or could another cat you already have be getting old and a little bossier? Even a sweet feline who has always shared her litter box may be scared to use it if her older brother is having some territorial issues. Quite often, adding a second litter box in a different location will often help with this cat urination behavior.<br /><br /><br />To learn more about cat urination problems and solutions, go to http://www.catbehaviorsolutions.com/cat-urination.html. Visit http://www.catbehaviorsolutions.com for more topics and tips about cat behaviors including scratching, biting, vocalizing and more.<br />Labels: cat articles, cat behavior, cat health<br /><br />Reminder: If you want to add this article to your website or blog, you must include the following information:<br /><br />Pet Article courtesy of http://pet-articles.blogspot.com.<br /><br />Here is the code:<br /><br /><br /><br />posted by Pet Articles, 2:07 AM<br /><br /> <br /><br /> <br /><br /><br />Fetch! Pet Care of Clear LakeTrisha Stetzel, FPC Clear Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258030041758544115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301392163325394470.post-22567107634069065752012-02-06T20:11:00.001-06:002012-02-06T20:13:42.528-06:00Pet Waste At Dog Parks Can Make Your Pet SickVisiting a dog park or other community area is a great way to give your pet the exercise and socialization she needs to be happy and healthy. Unfortunately these places can become contaminated with deadly microorganisms found in dog waste and other bodily fluids. These are the facts about 4 common diseases spread in contaminated pet feces.<br /><br />Parvovirus<br /><br />Background: Parvovirus appeared in the 1970s. Since then it has spread around the globe and is considered ubiquitous (potentially everywhere) in the environment. This virus’s rapid proliferation was due in part to its hardy nature. Parvo is often fatal so any dog that has symptoms that suggest infection should receive immediate medical care.<br /><br />Symptoms: Rapid dehydration, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, high or low temperature, lethargy and/or muscle weakness, loss of appetite, pale mucous membranes in mouth. Infected animals become sick 3 to 7 days after exposure.<br /><br />How It Spreads: Parvovirus is primarily spread through infected dog feces so be careful to avoid it. However other bodily fluids including urine, saliva and vomit can also spread Parvovirus. Once this pathogen gets into soil it can remain active for months and freezing temperatures don’t kill it. Parvovirus survives best in shady, cool, moist areas so the dirt near things like trees, bushes or playground equipment are favored spots for this virus.<br /><br />Prevention And Treatment: Puppies receive their initial vaccination at 6 to 8 weeks of age followed by a booster shot a few weeks later. Adult dogs receive a yearly booster shot. Parvovirus can be killed with bleach on nonporous surfaces like plastic, metal or cement however it is not possible to completely disinfect porous surfaces like soil. If infection occurs veterinarians can offer supportive care until the body is strong enough to mount a successful response to clear the virus.<br /><br />Roundworms<br /><br />Background: Roundworms are the most common worm parasite that infects dogs. Adult Roundworms live in the stomach and intestines of a host and shed their eggs into the environment through the host’s feces. These parasites are several inches long and look like thin, white or light brown worms in feces. Nearly all dogs will become infected with Roundworms during the course of their lives. Infestation in puppies can lead to serious illness or even death. Dogs older than 6 months develop a natural resistance to this parasite and usually don’t suffer from severe infestations or show symptoms of infection. Roundworms can infect humans and cause serious illness in children.<br /><br />Symptoms: Diarrhea, vomiting, lethargy, stunted growth, dull coat and hair loss.<br /><br />How It Spreads: Roundworm eggs are shed into the environment through the host’s feces and become infectious approximately 3 to 4 weeks later. These eggs have a tough outer shell and can remain active in dirt or sand for years. If your dog or child ingests contaminated soil or sand infection can occur. In addition if your dog eats a dead animal that is infected with Roundworms it can become infected. These parasites can also be spread to puppies before they are born or through their mother’s milk during nursing.<br /><br />Prevention And Treatment: There is no known way to prevent Roundworm infection. Veterinarians can prescribe worming medicine that treats Roundworm in puppies and adult dogs.<br /><br />Whipworms<br /><br />Background: Whipworm is a common species of parasitic worm that infects dogs. They are extremely small and difficult to detect in the feces of infected dogs. Whipworms burrow into the walls of the large intestine and appendix, suck blood and lay eggs that are shed in the dog’s feces.<br /><br />Symptoms: Mild infection may not produce symptoms but severe infection can cause abdominal pain, bloody diarrhea and in rare cases death. Symptoms may not begin for a month or more after exposure.<br /><br />How It Spreads: The only way to become infected with whipworms is to ingest a Whipworm egg. Unfortunately this is very easy for your pet to do. A dog can become infected if it eats contaminated feces, soil or grass. In addition if a dog rolls in contaminated soil it can become infected when it cleans it’s fur and ingests the eggs. Whipworm eggs have a thick outer shell that protects the core and allows them to survive for years in the environment. These eggs are best adapted to cool, moist, well shaded soil and they can survive freezing temperatures. Sun and heat can destroy Whipworm eggs by drying them out.<br /><br />Prevention And Treatment: Like Roundworm there is no known way to prevent infection with Whipworms. Veterinarians can prescribe worming medicine for puppies and adult dogs.<br /><br />Campylobacteriosis<br /><br />Background: Campylobacteriosis is a common gastrointestinal disease caused by bacterial infection. Up to half of all dogs carry the bacterium that causes Campylobacteriosis but few show any symptoms. This disease is most dangerous in puppies younger than 6 months of age and adult dogs with compromised immune systems. Occasionally this disease is mistaken for Parvo because the symptoms can be similar. However unlike Parvo most cases of Campylobacteriosis run their course in 1 to 3 weeks and this disease is rarely fatal if prompt medical care is administered. Humans are susceptible to this infection so care must be taken around dog waste.<br />Symptoms: Mild to severe diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, fever, lethargy, lack of appetite. Symptoms start within 48 hours of exposure.<br /><br />How It Spreads: Campylobacter is not a hardy germ. It can only survive for a few days at room temperature and can’t efficiently reproduce unless it’s inside a digestive tract. Unfortunately exposure to less than a thousand Campylobacter can trigger illness. At a park the major mode of transmission for this bacterium is fresh dog waste. Campylobacter can also spread through infected food or water.<br /><br />Prevention And Treatment: Antibiotics can treat this disease. A veterinarian may provide other supportive care as needed.<br /><br />When you visit a dog park or other community area the number one way to protect your pet is to keep her away from strange dog feces. If your community doesn’t clean up dog waste consider having a pet waste removal company do the work. Most cities have companies that offer this service. If you suspect that your pet has become sick with any of these diseases take your dog to a veterinarian immediately. Clean or dispose of any old toys, bones and bedding to reduce the chance of reinfection and to protect other healthy pets. Exercise and socialization are important for your pet’s health and well being. So watch out for landmines and keep your trips safe and fun!<br />Labels: dog articles, dog health, dog tips<br /><br /><br />Pet Article courtesy of http://pet-articles.blogspot.com.<br /><br /><br />Fetch! Pet Care of Clear LakeTrisha Stetzel, FPC Clear Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258030041758544115noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301392163325394470.post-30785663592420549272011-08-12T13:50:00.001-05:002011-08-12T13:52:01.021-05:00Surviving the Dog Days of Summer from PSIAs the temperature rises, so do Fido and Fluffy’s chances of experiencing heat-related problems. As the scorching days of summer descend upon us, Pet Sitters International (PSI) outlines what steps should be taken if a pet is suffering from heatstroke.
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<br />According to the Animal First Aid Chapter of PSI’s Certification Program, which was created in conjunction with Thom Somes, the Pet Safety Guy™, pets can easily suffer from heatstroke.
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<br />“High body temperatures and stress can cause a pet to go into heatstroke,” Ellen Price, PSI academic manager, said. “Heatstroke is most often caused when pets are left in a confined space with little or no ventilation during periods of warm temperatures and high humidity.”
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<br />The signs of heatstroke can include:
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<br />Uncontrollable panting
<br />Foaming at the mouth
<br />Depression
<br />Lethargy
<br />Agitation
<br />Vomiting
<br />Loss of consciousness
<br />Tongue and gums that turn from bright red to blue to gray
<br />Capillary refill time of more than two seconds
<br />PSI suggests the following five survival actions if a pet is suffering from heatstroke.
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<br />Restrain the pet. Muzzle only if absolutely necessary. If muzzled, cool the pet because it will not be able to pant and cool itself.
<br />Bathe or hose the pet with cool water (not cold) until its temperature subsides. You can also place the pet in a cool, well-ventilated space and wrap it in a wet, cold sheet or towel.
<br />Prepare to treat for shock. This includes placing the pet on its side with head extended. If the pet isn’t muzzled, open its mouth and cautiously pull the tongue past its teeth with your fingers. Keep the tongue extended to keep the airway open. Slightly elevate the pet’s hindquarters.
<br />Monitor the pet’s temperature with a digital thermometer.
<br />Transport to the veterinarian or emergency animal hospital.
<br />For more information about PSI, PSI’s Certification Program or to locate a professional pet sitter in your area, please visit www.petsit.com.
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<br />Fetch! Pet Care of Clear LakeTrisha Stetzel, FPC Clear Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258030041758544115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301392163325394470.post-7820209012446131152011-04-12T16:56:00.002-05:002011-04-12T16:59:47.497-05:00The Top 10 Pet Poisons of 2010Provided by PSI and Fetch! Pet Care of Clear Lake<br /><br />According to the ASPCA, their Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) handled more than 167,000 cases of pets exposed to toxic substances last year, many of which included typical household items. <br /><br />When it comes to pet poisonings, prevention is paramount. In addition to the obvious toxic materials, please keep in mind, and share with your clients, the top 10 pet poisons of 2010: <br /><br />1. Human Medications <br /><br />For several years, human medications have been number one on the ASPCA’s list of common hazards, and 2010 was no exception. Pets often snatch pill vials from counters and nightstands or gobble up medications accidentally dropped on the floor, so it’s essential to keep meds tucked away in hard-to-reach cabinets. <br /><br />2. Insecticides<br />In an effort to battle home invasions by unwelcome pests, people often unwittingly put their pets at risk. One of the most common incidents involves the misuse of flea and tick products—such as applying the wrong topical treatment to the wrong species. Thus, it’s always important to talk to your pet’s veterinarian before beginning any flea and tick control program. <br /><br />3. Rodenticides <br /><br />Baits used to kill mice and rats are mostly grain based. Not only does this attract rodents, but it attracts dogs and cats. There are several different types of rodenticides that can cause seizures, internal bleeding or kidney failure. Always make sure these items are placed in areas that pets cannot access. <br /><br />4. People Food <br /><br />Xylitol, grapes, raisins, onions and garlic are commonly ingested by our pets. Grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs, while onions and garlic can cause anemia if enough is ingested. Xylitol, a sugar alcohol used to sweeten sugar free gums and mints, can cause low blood sugar and liver failure in dogs. <br /><br />5. Veterinary Medications <br /><br />Many medications made for our pets are flavored for ease of giving. Unfortunately, that means that animals may ingest the entire bottle of medication if they find it tasty. Common chewable medications include arthritis and incontinence medications. Contact your veterinarian if your pet ingests more than his proper dose of medication. <br /><br />6. Chocolate <br /><br />Chocolate contains methylxanthines, which act as stimulants to our pets. The darker the chocolate, the more methylxanthines it contains. Methylxanthines can cause agitation, vomiting, diarrhea, high heart rate, muscle tremors, seizures and death. <br /><br />7. Household Toxins <br /><br />Cleaning supplies, such as bleach, acids, alkalis and other detergents, can cause corrosive injury to the mouth and stomach. Other household items such as batteries and liquid potpourri can cause similar problems. Always keep these toxins behind securely locked doors. <br /><br />8. Plants <br /><br />Both house plants and outdoor plants can be ingested by our pets. Lilies can cause life-threatening kidney failure in cats, while sago palms can cause liver failure in dogs and cats. Keep house plants and bouquets away from your pets. <br /><br />9. Herbicides <br /><br />Many herbicides have a salty taste, and our pets will commonly ingest them. Always follow label directions and keep pets off treated areas until they are dry. <br /><br />10. Outdoor Toxins <br /><br />Antifreeze, fertilizers and ice melts are all substances that animals can find outdoors. Keep these items in securely locked sheds or on high shelves where pets cannot get to them. <br /><br />If you have any reason to suspect your pet has ingested something toxic, please contact your veterinarian or the Animal Poison Control Center’s 24-hour hotline at (888) 426-4435.<br /><br /><br /><br />Fetch! Pet Care of Clear LakeTrisha Stetzel, FPC Clear Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258030041758544115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301392163325394470.post-65252555326852896872011-03-10T10:26:00.001-06:002011-03-10T10:27:27.236-06:005 Ways to Keep Pets Healthy5 Ways to Keep Pets Healthy<br />Preventive Care Can Make a Difference<br /><br />Our pets tend to give us the silent treatment when it comes to their health. Because they are unable to tell us when they have an ache or a pain, it’s up to us to look for tell-tale signs that may indicate an issue.<br />Simple routine care measures can help maintain your companion’s well-being and help to promote a long and healthy life.<br />1. Bi-Annual Exams<br />Dr. Cori Gross, a veterinarian in Seattle, Wash., says one of the most important things you can do for your pet is to make sure he gets routine veterinary examinations. “It’s all about taking preventative measures,” she explains. “You want to make sure you catch any potential problems early; that way it’s less expensive to care for your pets in the long run.”<br />During a bi-annual exam, your veterinarian will conduct a complete physical exam to check your pet’s condition from nose to tail. They will evaluate everything from your pet’s heart and breathing to their ears, mouth and skin during this process. In addition to the examination, your veterinarian may recommend the following:<br />• A blood panel: This is a group of tests that help monitor liver and kidney function, red and white cell blood counts, and can help identify abnormalities<br />that your pet may not be telling you about! Your veterinarian may suggest that seniors, pets over the age of 7, be tested bi-annually.<br />• A fecal test: This simple test checks pet’s stool for parasite eggs and/or other organisms that can be shed during irregular intervals; puppies usually are tested more frequently than adult dogs.<br />• Additional tests: May be recommended including x-rays, an EKG, blood pressure measurement or others.<br />Your veterinarian will identify the most important tests for your pet based on their individual history and needs.<br />2. Dental Health<br />Dental care plays a big role in maintaining a pet’s overall health. According to the American Veterinary Dental Society,<br />it’s estimated that more than 80% of cats and dogs over the age of three show signs of oral disease. This includes everything from gum disease to oral melanoma (cancer).<br />Research indicates that proper dental health can extend the life of your pet by two to five years.<br />While the need for professional dental cleanings will vary from pet to pet based on your pet’s age and oral condition; there are a few simple ways to promote a healthy mouth in the meantime:Passionate. Professional. Pet Sitters.<br />Compliments of<br />• Brush at home: Get your pet into a daily or weekly habit of having his teeth brushed at home. Use a finger brush or a pet toothbrush and pet toothpaste (never use human toothpaste; the sweetener can be toxic to pets). Once your pet gets into the routine, this task will become easier and can potentially extend the time between professional dental cleanings.<br />• Greenies®: According to the company, this edible dental chew (shaped like a toothbrush) can reduce tartar up to 69% and tartar buildup by 10.5% if eaten once a day. Ask your veterinarian about the appropriate size Greenie for your pet and remember that this treat adds to the total calorie intake your pet consumes during the day.<br />• Annual oral exam: Having your pet’s mouth examined once (or twice) a year during a routine checkup can help identify potential oral problems before they become serious.<br />• Bad breath: You may think that a stinky mouth is normal when it comes to your pet, but be careful: foul-smelling breath can indicate a serious problem either in your pet’s mouth or a digestive issue. Schedule an examination if your pet develops noticeably smelly breath.<br />3. Healthy Diet<br />Your pet’s dietary needs change over the course of his life, from birth to adolescence to adulthood and then to old age. A life stage diet is one that is tailored to meet the different nutritional needs as your pet ages.<br />Dogs’ and cats’ nutritional requirements are quite different from one another. It’s always wise to discuss the best diet for your pet with your veterinarian at each stage of your pet’s life. Check the food packaging for an AAFCO statement which will let you know if the product has been specifically tested and labeled to be safe, effective and designated for a particular life stage.<br />Portion control is important to maintain. When reading the label on your pet’s food, follow the recommendation for your pet’s ideal weight, not his current weight as some pets may require more or less than the labeled amount to maintain a healthy weight.<br />While some dogs may require special diets due to medical issues, the average small or medium breed dog should eat food containing:<br />• High-quality, animal-based protein for muscle maintenance.<br />• Fiber for a healthy digestive tract.<br />• Essential vitamins and minerals for the immune system.<br />• Vitamin-rich fish oils for a healthy coat and skin and for overall health.<br />• Healthy grains for energy.<br />Cats are strict meat eaters, or carnivores, so the food should contain a high level of easily digestible protein. Fat is also important<br />for needed calories. If you want, you can blend dry cat food with canned food.<br />Adult cat food should also contain:<br />• Vitamin A, from liver, kidney and other organ meats, and niacin for healthy growth.<br />• Essential fatty acids for healthy skin and fur.<br />• Taurine for healthy eyes and heart muscle.<br />Your senior pet may develop age-related health issues in the last year or so of his life. There are different food and supplements to address different problems. Your veterinarian can help guide you to make sure your pet has a quality of life as long as possible.<br />This article was provided by Veterinary Pet Insurance. Call a licensed VPI pet insurance specialist (800) 874-0718 or visit www.petsinsurance.com/psi to take advantage of PSI’s group discount today!<br />4. Daily Exercise<br />According to a Purina study, 60 percent of pets are overweight.<br />Diabetes, heart and lung diseases, bone and joint diseases,<br />skin conditions and different types of cancer are more common in overweight animals, as is a shorter life expectancy.<br />Many of these health problems can be alleviated with regular exercise and proper dietary management.<br />If your veterinarian approves of daily exercise for your pet, try some of these easy approaches:<br />• Daily walks: Take your dog for brisk walks of at least 20 minutes twice a day. Some cats can be trained to walk on a leash as well, so find a good harness and don’t give up after a few attempts.<br />• 15-minute training routine: Not only can dog training can curb bad behavior and strengthen your relationship with your pet, the mental stimulation<br />is exhausting for your companion. Consider taking dogs outdoors for an invigorating session up and down your driveway, in the backyard or on your neighborhood sidewalk.<br />• Indoor activities: Your pet can get as much exercise in an indoor setting as those who have outdoor space to run. Interactive toys such as motion-activated mice, balls and others not only mentally stimulate cats and dogs but also encourage exercise. Scratching posts, towers and dens, and carpeted cat trees are perfect for climbing, playing and hiding.<br />• Dog-walking services: Available by popular demand, this may be a reliable solution for those with puppies and those working long hours or traveling. Be sure your pet walker is bonded, insured and licensed, and some businesses offer dog training classes and pet boarding as well.<br />5. Parasite Prevention and Management<br />Keeping up with parasite control is instrumental in maintaining the health of our furry friends. Fleas, ticks, heartworms<br />and intestinal parasites can cause everything from discomfort to life-threatening illnesses in pets. For example,<br />fleas can live for a couple of months and females can lay up to 2,000 eggs in their lifetime.<br />Pets are commonly allergic to fleas and can develop significant skin irritation from scratching. Ticks can pass dangerous<br />infectious diseases when they bite. For both, prevention is the best medicine. There are a number of safe, effective monthly products that you can use to keep these pests from hurting your pet.<br />Heartworm disease is passed by mosquito bites and is fatal if not treated. Both cats and dogs are susceptible and there is no treatment for affected cats. However, there are several medication options that are safe and are completely<br />effective in preventing this disease.<br />Finally, intestinal parasites can be a problem at any stage of a pet’s life. Routine fecal examinations and deworming<br />treatments can keep serious medical problems to a minimum.<br />Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best method and products for your pet.<br />©2011 Pet Sitters International, Inc.<br />Fetch! Pet Care of Clear LakeTrisha Stetzel, FPC Clear Lakehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08258030041758544115noreply@blogger.com1