ruthmacpete – Dr. Ruth MacPete

Author: ruthmacpete

Winter Weather Pet Safety Tips

December 28, 2020January 5, 2021
by ruthmacpete

Stay indoors

Just like us, your pet can be susceptible to the cold. That means your pet should be indoors as much as possible, and if they need to go outside, make sure they stay warm. If you think it’s cold outside, there is a good chance your pet does too. Give your dog a doggie jacket or sweater, and boots to help keep them warm when they go outside for walks or playtime. Be careful about the amount of time they spend outside depending on how cold it gets. Leaving your pet in a car on a cold winter day for long periods of time can be dangerous. When in doubt leave your pet at home.

2. Wipe their paws

As every pet parent knows, your pet’s paws pick up all kinds of stuff. Unfortunately, that can include dangerous chemicals. During winter, it’s common to find salt, de-icing chemicals, and antifreeze on the ground. Be sure to wipe your pet’s paws immediately after they come inside to prevent them from licking any dangerous chemicals.

3. Use safe chemicals

Keep antifreeze, which contains ethylene glycol, out of reach of pets. Ethylene glycol has a sweet aroma and taste that can attract animals. Unfortunately, it can lead to kidney failure and can be fatal if ingested. Ideally use pet-friendly antifreeze. Pet-friendly anti-freeze is made from propylene glycol instead of ethylene glycol. This less toxic alternative is available online and at many automotive stores.

4. Check under the hood

Most people have heard of rodents getting caught in car engines, but did you know that cats occasionally get stuck under hoods too? This happens because outdoor cats hide under cars in order to stay warm on cold nights. Sometimes they will climb under the hood to seek shelter. Unfortunately, this is not a safe place for cats. When unsuspecting car owners turn on their ignition, the moving belts can injure, maim, or kill the cat. To help prevent cats and other animals in your neighborhood from getting under your hood, consider the following tips. Whenever possible, park your car in your garage. Honk your horn or tap on the hood before starting your car to scare away any cats. Likewise, slam your car door and make noise to give the cat a chance to get away. The goal is to make noise so any sleeping animals have a chance to scurry off.

5. Be prepared for emergencies with proper ID and disaster kits

A big winter storms can sometimes lead to a power outage. While we can’t predict emergencies, we can be prepared. The first thing you need to do is to make sure all of your pets have proper identification. Make sure your pet has a collar and ID tag with your phone number. Having a collar and ID tag improves the odds that your lost pet will be reunited with you. Unfortunately, collars and tags are not fool proof. Your pet should also have a microchip so that even if they lose their collar, the microchip will identify your pet. Finally, be sure to have a disaster kit for yourself and your pets. The disaster kit should be easily accessible and should include a supply of food, water, treats, toys and a first aid kit. For more information on making a disaster kit, read my blog on how to prepare for emergencies.

Follow these tips to help keep your pet safe and warm during this winter.

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Pet Tips

Holiday Gift Ideas for Your Fur-babies

December 15, 2020December 17, 2020
by ruthmacpete

2020 has been an especially challenging year. Stay at home orders, working from home, and distance learning have made everyone a little stir crazy. If it wasn’t for the comfort our pets give us, most of us would have lost our sanity months ago. Show your pets how much you value and appreciate their unconditional love and companionship this holiday season with a gift they are sure to love.

Toys

Dogs and cats love to play. Buy your dog a new toy to bring out their inner puppy. HERO dog toys offer a variety of fun, innovative, and durable toys. HERO makes squeaky toys, durable chew toys, plush toys, and retrieving toys. With their extensive selection, you are sure to find a toy that your dog will love.

And don’t forget about your feline friends. Playing with your cat is not just fun, it keeps them active and is good for their health. Some ideas for fun cat toys are catnip toys, cat trees, dangling wands, and laser pointers.

Collars & Leashes

Another bright gift idea is the Blazin’ Safety rechargeable LED collar and leash. They light up so that you and your pet are visible during night time walks. Visible from up to 350 yards away, they can last over 8 hours with a full charge. These collars and leashes are not only cool looking but help keep you and your pet safe at night.

Bowls
Get something for your pet and your home. Loving Pets has a variety of bowls to match your dog’s and home’s personality and style. Affordable, durable, and stylish, they will fit in any décor and ensure your pet eats in style.

Apparel

Keep your dog warm and fashionable this winter with modern dog clothes from Dog Threads. Dog Threads offers a wide selection of doggy apparel and best of all they also offer matching styles for you! That’s right you and your dog can wear matching flannels, Hawaiian shirts, hoodies, pajamas and more! You and your dog will be the envy of everyone in the neighborhood and 2% of your purchase will be donated to a non-profit animal rescue.

Comfy Pet Bed

Everyone knows pets love to nap (hello, have you heard of a cat nap?). What could be a better gift than a cozy new bed for your pet? Pamper your pooch with a Casper dog bed. Engineered by the same team behind their famous Casper mattress, Casper dog beds are made with two-layer foam construction to provide support and cushioning. Casper dog beds also have removable covers for easy washing.

Spa
Spas may be closed now but that doesn’t mean you can’t give your pet the gift of beauty. Pamper them with a new luxurious pet shampoo. VetDerm Solutions Super Hydrating & Conditioning Pet Shampoo is a uniquely formulated shampoo that uses human-grade ingredients and antioxidants such as green tea, shea butter and oatmeal to cleanse, hydrate and soothe your pet’s skin. Their coat will not only be clean, shiny, but also super soft.

Treats

You can never go wrong with treats. Not only do all pets love treats, but they also make perfect stocking stuffers. Treat your dog or cat to some tasty treats this holiday season.

The Gift of Health

Give your pets the ultimate gift: the gift of health. Don’t wait until your pet is sick. If your pet is overdue, take them to your veterinarian for a check-up. Routine check-ups allow your veterinarian to detect medical issues early when they are easiest to treat and help keep your pet in top shape. And if you don’t already have it, get pet insurance for your pets. Pet insurance allows you can focus on your pet’s veterinary care and not how you’ll pay for it.

Even though your pets can’t tell Santa what they want for Christmas, holiday shopping for your pet doesn’t have to be hard. If you’re still trying to find the perfect gift for your loyal, four-legged best friend, think about some of these gift ideas. They are sure to bring a wag to your pet’s tail.

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Pet Tips

Thanksgiving Tips To Keep Your Pets Safe

November 24, 2020November 20, 2020
by ruthmacpete

Each year, millions of pets become ill during the holidays, with intestinal obstructions, chocolate or other toxicities, and pancreatitis, being some of the most common reasons. In order to ensure that your Thanksgiving holidays are filled with happiness rather than long waits in a veterinary emergency room, follow these simple precautions to help keep your pets safe.

Obesity
Calorie-filled holiday feasts and sweets can lead to a few post-Thanksgiving extra pounds for us and our pets. Although sharing our leftovers with our pets may be in keeping with the holiday spirit of goodwill, it can lead to pet obesity. Pet obesity is associated with significant health problems, such as diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis. In addition, giving leftovers at the table routinely also promotes begging and reinforces bad behavior.

Pancreatitis
Besides leading to obesity, eating fatty holiday foods can also cause a life-threatening inflammation of the pancreas gland called pancreatitis. In pets, pancreatitis is usually caused by ingestion of fatty foods like turkey, ham, gravy, and chicken skins. If left untreated, it can be fatal.

Bones
Bones also pose a serious danger to pets. Poultry bones are dangerous because they can splinter and get lodged in the gastrointestinal tract and therefore should never be given to pets. Ham and beef bones can break teeth or can also cause intestinal obstructions. If you wish to give your pet a special holiday treat, instead of giving them bones, consider giving them a healthy dental treat specially intended for safe chewing and dental hygiene.

Dangerous Foods
Chocolate: Most people know that chocolate is toxic to dogs and cats. Depending on the amount consumed, it causes vomiting, diarrhea, rapid breathing, increased heart rate, seizures, and even death. Never give your pets chocolate and of course keep this sweet treat out of reach of your pets.

Xylitol Flavored Sweet Treats: Candies, desserts and other foods that contain the artificial sweetener xylitol are very dangerous to pets. Xylitol causes insulin release leading to low blood sugar levels and can also cause liver failure. Be sure to keep all these sweet treats out of reach of hungry pets. If your pet manages to steal some candy or dessert containing xylitol, immediately call your veterinarian for help or take your pet to a veterinary emergency clinic.

Raisins and grapes: Many Thanksgiving dishes contain raisins or grapes which can be very dangerous for pets. Grapes and raisins have been reported to cause severe kidney damage.

Nuts: Many nut varieties are toxic to pets and can have a devastating effect on dogs’ nervous systems. Walnuts and macadamias are especially toxic and can cause vomiting, paralysis and even death.

Onions: Onions, chives, and garlic in any form are poisonous to pets. They cause lethargy, weakness, ataxia (lack of coordination), hyper-salivation, anemia, and even death.

With so many tasty dangers often at pet’s eye level, it is always best to keep pets out of the kitchen and away from the celebration. And while sharing is in keeping with the holiday spirit of goodwill, sharing leftovers with our pets can lead to serious health problems. Instead of giving your pet leftovers from your holiday meal, give your pet a pet-safe treat or a new toy.

Lost Pets
Although the holidays are usually joyous times, as anyone who has ever hosted a holiday party knows, they can also be stressful times. This can be especially true for our pets. The revolving door of visiting guests and the break from the routine can frighten our pets and cause them to run away. If your pet tends to easily get scared, nervous, or becomes protective, it is important to keep them confined safely inside your house. Many pets are lost during the holidays when they jump out of their yard or dart out of an open door. Remember all pets, even strictly indoor cats, should have collars with tags and microchips so that if they become lost they can be returned safely home.

Paying careful attention to these warnings will help keep the Thanksgiving holidays happy for you and your pet and should prevent unscheduled visits to your veterinarian.

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Pet Tips

Diabetes in Pets: Do You Know the Signs?

November 11, 2020November 20, 2020
by ruthmacpete

November is American Diabetes Month®. Diabetes is not just a human disease; dogs and cats also suffer from this all too common disease. In fact, estimates report that diabetes affects about 1:200 cats and 1:300 dogs nationwide and it is increasing at an alarming rate. Fortunately, diabetes is a manageable condition in pets just like humans.

WHAT IS DIABETES?
Diabetes mellitus occurs when the body is unable to regulate the amount of sugar in the bloodstream. Type 1 diabetes occurs when the body fails to produce the hormone insulin. Insulin is released when blood sugar levels are high and results in the transfer of sugar from the bloodstream into cells to be stored or used for energy. Insulin resistant or Type 2 diabetes develops when the body becomes less responsive to the effects of insulin. Both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes result in chronically elevated levels of sugar in the blood that damage capillaries and eventually lead to nerve damage, kidney failure and even death. Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes seen in cats, while Type 1 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes in dogs.

WHAT CAUSES DIABETES?
Diabetes mellitus is a multifactorial disease influenced by both inherited and environmental factors. Genetic predisposition seems to be an important risk factor, and in dogs, certain breeds, like Keeshonds and Samoyeds, are more likely to develop diabetes. Age is another important risk factor. Though it can affect animals of any age, it is more common in middle-aged and older animals. However, of all the risk factors, obesity is the most important for Type 2 diabetes, especially since the prevalence of obesity is increasing. In the United States, it is estimated that 45% of dogs and 58% of cats are overweight.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF DIABETES

The classic symptoms of diabetes are increased thirst, increased appetite, and increased urination. In addition to these textbook symptoms, pets with diabetes may become lethargic, lose weight, have a dull coat, and in dogs, develop cataracts. It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of diabetes so that you can promptly seek veterinary care if you notice any of these in your pets. Of course, it’s important to mention that animals are very adept at hiding illness so these symptoms may be difficult to recognize initially. That’s why regular veterinary check-ups are so important. Annual examinations and diagnostic tests help to uncover diseases, like diabetes, early when they are typically easier to treat or manage.

HOW DO YOU KNOW IF YOUR PET HAS DIABETES?
If you think your cat or dog may have diabetes, see your veterinarian immediately. Diabetes is diagnosed by having your veterinarian perform simple blood and urine tests on your animal. These fast and easy diagnostic tests allow your veterinarian to detect abnormally high levels of sugar in your pet’s bloodstream and also look for the presence of sugar or sugar breakdown products in their urine.

TREATMENT
So what can be done? Fortunately, being diagnosed with diabetes is not a death sentence. Diabetes is a manageable disease. The goal of treatment is to provide stable blood sugar levels. This can be achieved with some combination of diet, insulin and at-home monitoring. There are several different types of insulin available with different durations of action, your veterinarian will assess your pet to determine which type of insulin will be best for your particular pet. In addition to insulin, diet and weight loss are just as important when it comes to treating diabetes in pets. Recent nutritional studies show that switching to a low-carbohydrate and high-protein canned food diet is the most effective dietary routine for most diabetic cats. Speak with our veterinarian about what if any nutritional changes are necessary for your particular pet. Weight loss is also important because obesity is a common cause of insulin resistance. Fatty tissue releases factors that impair the effects of insulin. To promote weight loss, you should exercise your pets in addition to following your veterinarian’s dietary suggestions. At-home monitoring makes a huge difference in the quality of life of pets with diabetes. Through proper veterinary care and the right at-home blood glucose monitor, calibrated specifically for dogs and cats, diabetes in pets can be successfully managed on an ongoing basis. For more information on at-home monitoring click here.

TAKE HOME MESSAGE
Diabetes is an increasingly common problem in dogs and cats. Become familiar with the signs and symptoms of diabetes and watch for their development in your pet. Take your furry friend to their veterinarian for regular examinations and screening tests since it is best to catch diseases early before they become advanced and develop complications. If you discover that your animal has diabetes, remember diabetes is a manageable disease and with treatment most pets with diabetes can live long healthy lives.

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Pet Tips

Halloween Hazards all Pet Parents Need to Know

October 17, 2020November 20, 2020
by ruthmacpete

Halloween is almost here! Halloween is my all-time favorite holiday. Ever since I was a kid, I have loved Halloween but… not everyone loves Halloween. In fact, many animals are downright terrified by the holiday. In addition to being scary, Halloween can be dangerous to our pets. It is important all pet parents know the four most common Halloween pet hazards and how to keep their pets safe this Halloween.

1.Open Doors
The spooky decorations, eerie noises, ghoulishly dressed little people ringing doorbells and yelling “trick-or-treat” can be frightening to our pets. If you have a nervous, shy or easily frightened pet it is best to keep them inside your house and away from the door. Likewise, if your pet is very protective, keep your pet safely secured inside the house. Sadly, many frightened pets get lost during Halloween every year when they dart out of an open front door or escape from their yard. It’s best to give your pet a treat and keep them safely away from the commotion in a back room.

2.Candy
Scary trick-or-treaters aren’t the worst hazard to our pets. Candy is probably the biggest danger. As most people, know chocolate is toxic to our pets and can be fatal. However, it’s not just chocolate that we have to watch out for. Candy with xylitol, like sugar-free gum, is also vey dangerous to pets. Xylitol causes insulin release and low blood sugar levels and can lead to liver failure. Be sure to keep all Halloween candy away from your pets. If your pet manages to steal some candy, immediately call your veterinarian for help or take your pet to a veterinary emergency clinic.

3.Decorations
Halloween decorations can be another big danger to our pets. Flickering candles, jack-o-lanterns, and twinkling lights don’t just capture our attentions, pets are curious by nature and are drawn to these lights as well. Unfortunately, pets can get burned if they get too close to a candle or jack-o-lanterns, or worse, start a house fire. Halloween lights are pretty but can also be dangerous to ours pets. Pets can get tangled in lights, or worse yet, they can get electrocuted if they chew on them.

4.Costumes
Some people, like me, love to dress their pet up for Halloween. Just be sure you use a costume made especially for pets and never leave them in a costume unattended. Pet costumes are designed to fit your pet comfortably and to come off easily. Even so, you should never leave your pet alone in a costume. Some animals may decide to take their costume off themselves and become entangled, while others may decide to eat the costume in order to ensure they won’t have to wear it again.

This Halloween, make it a priority to keep your pets safe and sound. Keep your cats inside if you don’t already do so, and put your dog in a back room, especially if they are shy, nervous, or easily frightened by kids, loud noises, and lights. Be aware of common Halloween hazards like candy and decorations. Finally, if your pet doesn’t already have a collar, ID tag and microchip, get these before Halloween just in case your pet gets frightened and runs away during all the spooky commotion.

Have a safe and happy Halloween!

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Pet Tips

Disaster Preparedness for your Pets

September 17, 2020October 21, 2020
by ruthmacpete

Unfortunately natural disasters like hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, and wild fires are an inevitable part of life. Though we cannot prevent them, we are not completely helpless. We can improve our chances for a safe outcome by becoming better prepared for these natural disasters.

When disasters strike, they leave no time for blunders. People forced to evacuate have little time to pack. Being ready at a moments notice is critical and having a disaster kit for you and your pets is essential.

Preparing for an emergency begins by making a disaster kit for your family and your pets. However, preparing your pets for a disaster begins even before you pack your first supply in your disaster kit. Your pet should already have a microchip implanted, and wear a collar with identification tags. Taking these precautions can avoid the heartache of a lost pet during these times of chaos. Even with the best precautions your pet can get lost in the turmoil. Having a microchip and ID tag will help reunite you with your lost pet.

As previously mentioned, pets should have their own disaster kit. These kits need to contain all the supplies your pet will need to survive for several days. Pre-made pet disaster kits can be purchased online or you can make your own.

What do you need to make your own grab-n-go kit?

1. A container to store all the supplies.
A duffel bag or backpack is ideal because they are easy to carry in case you need to evacuate. You should choose a brightly colored one because they will be easy to identify and find, even in the darkness of a power outage. Likewise, you should store your disaster kits in a location where they are easily accessible. Storing your emergency kit where you cannot find it or easily get to it negates its usefulness.

2. Food and water
You will need to include enough food in your kit to last for several days. Canned foods last longer than dry foods so these are a good choice for our pack. However, they are heavy and the amount of cans needed to sustain a large dog for several days is probably too bulky and impractical to pack in a disaster kit. Dry food can be packed instead but be sure to pack it in heavy-duty waterproof freezer bags. Be sure you include bowls as well as a can opener (if using canned food). I prefer to use collapsible bowls, because they are light, and collapse to less than two inches so they don’t take up a lot of space. You should have enough water for your pet in their disaster kit, since it may be hard to carry days worth of water consider including a water-purifying filter or iodine tablets.

3. Toys & Treats
Although it may not seem necessary, you should also include your pet’s favorite treats and toys in your disaster kit. Many frightened animals will hide during a disaster and will not want to come out of their hiding place. Along with gentle coaxing, having your pet’s favorite toy on hand may be what you need to entice your fearful pet out of hiding and into safety. Toys also come in handy if you need something to entertain your pet while you are waiting out the storm.

4. Leash and/or Pet Carrier
Be sure to include a leash (preferably one that is reflective) for dogs or a pet carrier for cats or small dogs so that you can safely secure and transport your pet without risking that they will run away and get lost.

Be sure to store your disaster kit and carriers in a location where they are readily accessible. Storing these where you cannot find them or easily get to them negates their usefulness.

5. Medications
Be sure to include any medications that your pet is currently taking, such as arthritis, thyroid and blood pressure medications. You may not be able to go to your veterinarian during an emergency so have extra supplies available.

6. First aid kit
Include a pet first aid booklet and first aid supplies in case your pet gets injured and you cannot access a veterinarian. First aid kits should include antibacterial ointments, bandaging material, wound dressing, and antiseptic wound cleaners. Also pack a thermal blanket to keep your pet warm if it goes into shock. Finally, you can improve your first aid skills by enrolling in a basic pet first aid class often offered at your local animal shelter.

7. Important documents
Pack a copy of your pet’s important medical records, including vaccination history and microchip information. Include a recent photo of your pet and your adoption papers to show you are the owner. I also recommend including a document that has emergency contact information, your veterinarian’s number and any local boarding facilities so you have access to these important numbers.

Having taken the proper measures to prepare for an emergency, you have given yourself and your family the best chance for a safe outcome.

So what do you do during a disaster?

First and foremost, try to remain calm. Then put your plan of action into motion. Get your disaster kits, locate your animals, secure them using either a leash for dogs or a carrier for cats and small dogs, and then get yourself, your family, and your pets to a safe location. Remember take your pets with you! If you have a pet emergency don’t call 911 they do not handle pet emergencies. Instead call your veterinarian, the local veterinary emergency clinic or the local animal shelters. If your pets manage to get lost or you need a place for your pets, contact your local animal shelters for information.

While the area you live in may not be prone to Hurricanes or earthquakes disasters come in all forms. Natural disasters cannot be prevented, but being organized and preparing for them can make a lifesaving difference.

For more on disaster preparedness for your pets watch this video from the Weather Channel.

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Pet Tips

Keeping Your Little Dog Safe

August 10, 2020
by ruthmacpete

As many of you may know, Jett is the newest addition to my furry family. Although I’ve had many dogs throughout my life (Poodle mixes, Chows, Scottish Terriers, a Briard, a Doberman, and most recently, my sweet Boxer Oski), Jett is unlike any other dog that I have ever had. I never realized how different it is to have a tiny dog. Weighing in at 8 pounds, Jett makes a 20+ pound Scotty seem stocky. Jett is even smaller than 2 of my 3 cats! Having a small dog definitely has some cool perks. Jett is so small he fits in purses and adorable dog carriers. He can go kayaking, biking and hiking (while in his cozy backpack), and if the pandemic ever ends, he can easily travel around the country with me. He easily fits on our bed along with our three cats, unlike our Boxer. And unlike his larger predecessors, eating (and pooping) are at a much smaller and manageable scale. Unfortunately, there is a major downside to his diminutive size. He is so small and delicate that I constantly worry about him being attacked and hurt by another dog. This is a novel problem for me. Even with my Scotties, though short in stature, they were built like a tank and had the toughness of a terrier. So, what can you do to protect your little dog?

Risks
So what dangers do little dogs face? The most common is other dogs! It is important to know that your little dog could be attacked by another dog. While this is also true with bigger dogs, if you have a little dog, the results could be deadly. The damage that a large dog can inflict is magnified in a little dog’s body. In addition, a larger dog can grab a small dog and shake them violently, which is often fatal.

Depending on where you live, you may also need to worry about wild animals like coyotes, foxes, bobcats and mountain lions. Little dogs are easy prey for these predators and they are sometimes tragically attacked in the presumed safety of their own backyards. If that wasn’t bad enough, birds of prey, like hawks and eagles, can swoop out of nowhere to attack your dog.

Unfortunately, little dogs are also vulnerable to people. Since they are so small, it is easy for a someone to accidentally step on them. This can result in a broken bone. Children are also drawn to little dogs, and if they are too rough, they can accidently injure your dog.

Precautions
The best way to protect your little dog from another dog is to keep them on a short leash and to be prepared to pick them up quickly if necessary. Whenever I encounter a dog I do not know, I always ask the owner if their dog is dog-friendly. I also keep an eye on their dog’s body language and look for signs of aggression. If the hackles go up or I see other signs of dominance, I pick up my dog and move on. It’s better to be safe than sorry. Another way to protect your small dog from an attack is to carry a dog deterrent spray. These sprays usually contain citronella and can be used to distract the attacking dog. They fit easily on your key chain or leash so you have it handy. If I want my little dog to have some fun off-leash, I go to small dog-only dog parks so he can frolic with others dogs his size.

The best way to protect your little dog from wild animals is to avoid dangerous situations. When taking your little dog on a walk at night, keep them on a short leash and avoid dark areas near brush. It only takes a moment for a predator to attack your dog. If your dog has to be in the backyard, make sure your yard is secure. Avoid leaving your dog unattended. Remember that some wild animals can climb fences! If you wish to have additional peace of mind, consider protecting your little dog with a Coyote Vest. Coyote Vests are made of puncture-proof materials and have spikes to deter predators. They even have an attachment to protect against an aerial attack from a bird of prey.

Since little dogs are prone to being stepped on, avoid crowds or simply pick up and carry your dog. Also be prepared for your little dog to be a child magnet! I remind curious children that Jett is a lot smaller than they are and they need to pet him gently. This a wonderful opportunity to teach children to treat animals with kindness and respect.

Summary
Having a little dog has been an eye-opening experience in many ways. For starters, it’s surprising how much personality can fit in such a small package. I also have to see the world from their perspective. Little dogs are vulnerable to hazards big dogs don’t have to worry about. Fortunately, common sense and following these tips can help keep your little dog safe.

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Pet Tips

How to Hike Safely With Your Dog

August 4, 2020August 5, 2020
by ruthmacpete

Hiking is a great activity for people and pets. Besides the beautiful scenery and fresh air, you get a healthy dose of exercise. Before you set out on a hike with your pet, here are a few things you should know.

Know the Rules
First make sure the trail allows dogs. Some allow dogs but only if they are on a leash, while others do not allow dogs at all. Most trails post signs at the trailhead to inform you if pets are permitted. Know the rules before you hit the trail. No one likes to arrive at the trailhead with a very excited pooch only to find out that no pets are allowed. Although it may be tempting to break the rules, do so at your own risk. Most parks have rangers who are not afraid to issue citations. It may not seem like a big deal but a ticket can a lot of money.

Know Your Pet’s Ability
Be sure your dog is physically up to the challenge and that the temperature is not too hot. Otherwise, you may find yourself carrying your pet back. Some dogs, especially breeds, cannot physically handle heat or strenuous hikes. Other breeds are just sedentary and don’t enjoy hiking. For example, my Doberman could hike for miles and miles and never seemed to get tired. On the other hand, my new dog Jett is tiny, brachycephalic and not made for hiking. That said, he enjoys the great outdoors like the rest of us, so we only hike when it is cool or shady and always bring a dog backpack. Jett hikes a bit and then is carried like royalty the rest of the time. Whether you have a big dog, little dog or short nosed dog, just be sure you know your pet’s limits and don’t exceed them.

Stay Hydrated
Be sure to bring plenty of water for yourself and your pets. Just like you, your pet will need to drink a lot of water while hiking in order to stay hydrated. The heat and exercise can lead to dehydration quickly if you and your pet are not drinking enough. Never assume you will find water on a trail. You never know when a stream or creek is going to be run dry. Also, drinking water from a stream is a good way to get intestinal parasites like giardia. Make sure you bring enough water for you and your pet and don’t forget to bring a collapsible bowl for your pet since it’s not easy for them to drink from a water bottle.

Hiking Dangers
When hiking, always stay on the designated trails to avoid disturbing wildlife or damaging native plants. In addition to obeying the rules and helping protect the environment, staying on the trail can actually save your dog’s life. Poisonous snakes are found in every state except Alaska, Hawaii, and Maine. Although you may not realize it, you and your pet may not be the only ones enjoying the hiking trails on a warm summer day. By keeping them leashed and on the trail, you can pull your dog away from danger and keep them out of a snake’s favorite hiding place, like brush and piles of rubble. For more info about poisonous snakes and what to do if your pet is bitten, read my previous blog on poisonous snakes. While not as dangerous as a venomous snake, plants with thorns and cacti are a common outdoor hazard for your pet. Keeping your pet leashed and on-trail can protect them from becoming a cactus pincushion. Keeping them on a leash will also keep them out of harm’s way by keeping them away from cliffs, waterfalls, and rivers. After you finish your hike, check your dog’s fur and in between their toes for thorns, cactus stickers, foxtails, and burrs, and always make sure to look for ticks, especially if you live in an area endemic for Lyme disease.

In line with the Boy Scout motto, being prepared can make all the difference in the world between an enjoyable outdoor excursion and wilderness misadventure. Before you set out on a hike, know the trail rules and bring plenty of water for yourself and your pet. Remember to keep your pet on a leash and on the trail. Afterwards, check their fur and feet closely after hikes. Hiking is a great activity that people and pets can enjoy together. Hopefully these tips will help you and your pet stay safe on the trails this year.

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Pet Tips

Foods You Can Share With Your Pets

July 8, 2020
by ruthmacpete

We often hear about foods we can’t share with our dogs: chocolate, grapes, raisins, fatty foods, onions, foods with the artificial sweetener xylitol, macadamia nuts, etc.

With so many “don’ts,” what human foods can we share with our dogs? Are any human foods safe for our dogs?

The answer is yes! Here is a list of some human foods that are yummy and generally good for your dog:

Lean meat
• Besides being a great source of protein, dogs love to eat meat. In order to prevent an upset stomach, or worse yet—a pancreatitis—it is safer to feed dogs lean meats such as turkey, chicken, and fish. Fish is not only a good source of protein, but can also be a great source of omega-3 fatty acids—especially salmon. Omega fatty acids are purported to have anti-inflammatory properties, are a major component of the mammalian brain, and can help with skin and coat problems. When giving your pets meat, remember to remove the skin and fat; if it’s not healthy for you, it’s not healthy for your dog. Finally, be sure you also remove all bones. Beef bones can chip a tooth, poultry bones can splinter, and any bone can get stuck in your dog’s throat or intestinal tract.

Veggies
• Vegetables can be a healthy and tasty treat for your dog. I know a lot of dogs that enjoy carrots, broccoli, and sweet potatoes. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene and dietary fiber. They can be served raw or cooked. Many dogs enjoy the crunchy texture of raw carrots. An additional benefit is that their hard texture can help keep teeth and gums clean. Other dogs prefer cooked carrots mixed into their food. Broccoli is rich in vitamin C, dietary fiber, and other nutrients with anti-cancer effects. Like carrots, it can be served raw or cooked. In my experience, most dogs prefer broccoli steamed and mixed in their food. Sweet potatoes are loaded with complex carbohydrates, dietary fiber, and beta-carotene; and are a good source of vitamin B5, vitamin B6, manganese, and potassium. The great thing about vegetables is that they are low in calories and high in vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

Fruit
• Many dogs like apples because of the crunchy texture. Apples are not only “Red Delicious,” but also healthy and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. Just make sure your dog doesn’t eat the core (a choking hazard); also avoid the seeds–they contain cyanide. Bananas are another fruit-treat you can give your dog. Bananas are rich in vitamin B6 and soluble fiber and also contain moderate amounts of vitamin C, manganese, and potassium.

Grains
• You can supplement your dog’s diet with rice, preferably brown rice. In fact, most veterinarians recommend a temporary diet consisting of chicken and rice for dogs with acute gastrointestinal problems. Brown rice is loaded with dietary fiber; minerals like manganese, magnesium, phosphorous, zinc; and vitamins such as vitamin B1, vitamin B3, vitamin B5, and vitamin B6. Flax seeds can also be given as a healthy treat. Flax seeds are a great source of omega fatty acids and dietary fiber.
If you have an overweight dog, substituting one of these healthy veggies or fruits for treats can be a great way to reduce his calories without you feeling like you are denying him. Let’s face it; we all like to give our dogs treats. Unfortunately, treats have calories that add up quickly. Fruit and veggies are a low-calorie alternative.

This list is meant to give you ideas about foods that you can safely share with your dog. It is neither exhaustive nor meant to be a substitute for a formulated diet. Dogs have very complex nutritional requirements. It is never advisable to give your dog “home cooked meals” without first consulting with your veterinarian. If you are interested in cooking meals for your dog, hopefully, I have given you some ideas that you can bring to your veterinarian to create a well-balanced diet. Of course, if your dog has a medical condition, your veterinarian will want to consider that before adding anything to his diet.

DISCLAIMER: If you have any questions or concerns, you should always visit or call your veterinarian, they are your best resource to ensure the health and well-being of your pets. I also recommend always consulting your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet.

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Pet Tips

4th of July Pet Safety Tips

July 3, 2020
by ruthmacpete

Every year hundreds of pets throughout the country are lost or injured during 4th of July Celebrations. Here are five tips you can follow to help keep them safe and stress-free.

1.Keep your pets indoors
Though most of us consider fireworks to be the highlight of the evening, many pets are terrified of them. The bright lights and loud noises can unnerve pets and frightened animals will often escape in order to get away. Runaway pets can become lost or get hit by a car. To keep your pet safe and stress-free during a fireworks display, be sure to keep them indoors, preferably in a secure and comfortable room.

2.Keep your pets busy
Give your pet their favorite toy or a new chew toy to keep them focused on something beside the loud noise and bright lights.

3.Create soothing sounds
Turning on the TV or radio can help drown out loud and scary noises outside.

4.Calming Products
Consider trying an over-the-counter dog pheromone product or one of the numerous calming shirts available. Pheromone products can help decrease anxiety in some dogs. Calming shirts wrap snugly around your pet giving them constant, gentle pressure designed to soothe them just like swaddling soothes a baby.

5.Speak with your veterinarian about medications
If you have a pet that becomes very stressed or agitated by fireworks despite your best efforts, speak with your veterinarian about medications that may help. There are a number of medications available to help decrease anxiety and help keep your pet relaxed. Your veterinarian will determine which medication is appropriate for your pet.

6.Watch out for food that can be harmful to pets
The 4th of July is known for apple pie and BBQ’s, but even delicious holiday food can be hazardous for your pets. Keep your pets away from hot BBQ grills that can easily burn them, especially if they are tempted by what’s cooking on the grill. Animals should never have access to chocolate or alcohol. Bones, except for those specially treated and intended for canine consumption, should also be avoided. Poultry bones can splinter and get lodged in the gastrointestinal tract. Ham and beef bones can break teeth or cause intestinal obstructions. Though tempting, and always appealing to dogs, you should avoid giving your pet leftovers. Not only can this lead to obesity and encourage the annoying habit of begging, it can cause a pancreatitis attack. Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas usually caused by fatty foods. It is a serious condition that can be fatal if untreated.

7.Be sure all pets have ID tags and microchips
All of your pets should have collars with ID tags and microchips, even indoor-only cats. A door or gate could be left open accidentally during 4th of July BBQ, or your pet can escape if they become frightened during a fireworks display. Collars with ID tags and microchips are the best way to ensure that if your pet gets lost, he or she will be returned to you. And of course be sure all of your information is correct and current.

8.Know what to do If your pet gets lost
What should you do if your pet gets lost? Walk or drive around your neighborhood to look for them. Be sure to call out their name but they may not come to you if they are frightened. Contact your local shelters and call nearby veterinary clinics as soon as possible. Make flyers with your pet’s picture and post these around the neighborhood, on neighborhood apps, in local pet stores and veterinary clinics, and around retail stores with high foot traffic, like grocery stores.

Follow these tips so that you and your pets can have a safe and fun 4th of July!

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