ruthmacpete – Dr. Ruth MacPete

Author: ruthmacpete

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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Pet Tips

Tips to Keep Your Pets Safe This Summer

June 25, 2020
by ruthmacpete

Summer is officially here! As the temperature rises across the country, the risk of summer dangers also rises, especially for your pets.

Follow these simple tips in order to keep your pets safe and cool this summer:

1. Whenever possible keep your pets inside where it’s nice and cool. If they have to be outside, be sure they have access to shade and water.

2. Be sure your pets have plenty of water at all times. When it’s hot, water evaporates faster and pets drink more than usual. Make sure you provide extra bowls of water and don’t forget to bring water and portable dog bowls with you during long walks or outings.

3. Avoid excessive exercise when it’s hot. Keep your walks short to avoid over heating. Walk your dog in the early morning or evening when it is cooler.

4. Before going on a walk, check the ground to be sure it is not too hot for your pets’ feet. Asphalt, concrete, and sand can get very hot. If it’s too hot for your bare feet, it’s too hot for your pets! If you have to take your pet outside when the ground is hot, make sure to put booties on them to protect their pads from getting burned.

5. Never leave your pet unattended in a car when it’s hot outside. Even with the windows rolled down, your car can reach dangerous temperatures within minutes.

6. Keep pets away from hot barbeque grills and be aware of BBQ and picnic foods that can be dangerous your pet, such as: alcohol, chocolate, grapes, onions, corn cobs, and chicken bones. Toothpicks and skewers can also be dangerous. Never leave pets unsupervised around food. Have pet friendly treats available to avoid temptation and reward your pets for good behavior.

7. Lastly be sure you are familiar and on the look out for the common signs of heat exhaustion (also known as heat stroke) in dogs:
Excessive panting
Drooling
Bright red tongue and gums
Vomiting
Bloody diarrhea
Unsteadiness
Collapse
Seizures

Heatstroke can quickly damage vital internal organs. If you suspect that your pet is suffering from heatstroke, try to cool them down by wetting them with cool water and immediately take them to your veterinarian or closest veterinary emergency clinic for treatment. Without prompt treatment, heatstroke can be fatal.

Remember, pets are more vulnerable to heat exhaustion than us. Hopefully these safety tips will help keep your pets safe and cool.

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Pet Tips

Everything You Need to Welcome Your New Dog

June 8, 2020June 9, 2020
by ruthmacpete

Dog adoptions have reached record levels during the COVID pandemic. If you are thinking about adopting a new dog and being part of this nationwide trend, make sure you have everything you need to welcome your need canine companion into your home. While it is easy to get caught up in the excitement, adopting a dog is a big deal. In order to promote a smooth transition, it is important to prepare your home for the new addition. Preparing for your new furry friend means buying essential supplies, making your home pet-proof, assigning pet care responsibilities, finding a veterinarian, and taking additional steps to ensure smooth transition.

Make sure you have all the essentials:

• Food & Treats-Find out what kind of food your puppy or adult dog was eating and buy the same. Switching foods abruptly can lead to diarrhea, or worse, your new dog may refuse to eat it. If you wish to change their diet, be sure to gradually transition your dog by slowly mixing in the new food. Likewise ask if your new pooch has any favorite treats you should have handy for training and encouragement.

• Bowls–
Food and water bowls are available in a variety of colors and styles. They can be made of plastic, ceramic, or metal. When choosing bowls for your dog, pick based on your dog’s size, desired durability, and your personal sense of style.

• Tags and Microchips– As a veterinarian who has worked at an animal shelter, I have personally witnessed what happens when a lost pet is brought in without an ID tag or microchip. Without a way to reach-out to their family, the odds of reuniting them are slim. Make sure your new dog has an ID tag and microchip. They can make the difference between reuniting with your lost pet or them becoming another lost dog statistic.

• Collars, Harnesses & Leashes– You will also need a collar and leash to bring your new canine friend home and for walks, outings, and veterinary visits. A collar is also essential to attach their ID tags. If your new pup pulls on the leash or has a delicate neck, consider getting a harness too. When choosing a collar, leash, and harness, make sure they are the right size and pick based on your pet’s needs (i.e. strength, durability, ruggedness). Otherwise, have fun and choose something that matches you and your dog’s sense of style. Susan Lanci Designs has an extensive collection of high quality, super fashionable collars, harnesses, leashes, and other accessories. Many are even bedazzled with real Swarovski crystals for extra sparkle!

• Dog Bed–
You want your new pooch to feel welcome and at home. Buy them their own bed to make them feel more secure in their new environment. Harry Barker has a large selection of cozy, comfortable, and easy to maintain beds.

• Crate– Buying a crate is also a must do. Crate training your new pup will make housetraining easier. Besides helping with housetraining, crate training will help your pup feel secure while you are away and will keep them out of trouble. There are many options, from utilitarian wire crates, to plastic crates If you’re not crazy about adding a crate to your home décor consider getting a “furniture crate” like the New Age Pet ecoFLEX furniture crate that seamlessly fits into your home décor and can double as an end table. Don’t forget you’ll need a bed for your pet’s new crate. Susan Lanci Designs has collection of plush beds for small to medium-sized dogs that look great and can fit easily inside a crate.

• Toys– Finally, don’t forget about toys to keep your new pooch entertained. I recommend choosing a variety of toys to find out what your pet prefers. Bouncy balls, chew toys, squeaky toys, and toys you can stuff with treats are not only fun for your pet, but also keep your dog busy and out of trouble. Otherwise your pup might decide that your favorite pair of shoes can double as a chew toy. Harry Barker offers a selection of fun and durable dog toys.

• Apparel– Though not technically a necessity, buying clothes for your dog can definitely be fun activity. You can choose clothes that serve a function, like jackets and sweaters to keep your pet warm during the winter and clothes that are simply fun and fashionable. Collaroy has a selection of adorable shirts, dresses, sweaters, and jackets for your dog’s wardrobe.

Be sure to check back next week for my blog about how to pet-proof your home!

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Pet Tips

Green Pet Living: How to Help Your Pets Go…

April 22, 2020
by ruthmacpete

With COVID dominating the news, it is easy to overlook that April 22nd is Earth Day. However, in many ways, COVID has directed a new spotlight on the importance of the environment. The spread of new viral diseases from wildlife to humans highlights the negative impact of deforestation, habitat loss, the illegal wildlife trade, and climate change. Likewise, stay-at-home orders have resulted in less pollution and visibly cleaner air and water. This Earth Day, besides thinking about how you can reduce your carbon footprint, think about what you can do to reduce your pet’s carbon pawprint. Here are a few simple changes you can make to ensure that your pet is living green too.

• Waste Management. Anyone who has ever had a pet knows that they create lots of waste. It is estimated that 10 million tons of waste from pets fill landfills yearly. What can be done? Instead of using plastic bags to pick up and dispose of your pet’s waste, try using recycled biodegradable pet poop bags. If you have a cat, consider switching from a clay-based litter to a biodegradable litter, such as ökocat. By switching to a biodegradable litter, you can cut down on the estimated 2 million tons of clay litter that end up in landfills. If you brave you can also try teaching your cat to use the toilet. It sounds crazy but cats can accurately be trained to use a toilet. Kits are available that help you guide your cat through the process. It may be a lot of work at first but think about never having to clean a litter box again? Now if we could just teach them to flush!

• Give a Hoot, Don’t Pollute. Always pick-up after your pet and follow the backpacker’s motto of leaving only footprints. Leaving your pet’s waste behind is not only rude; it can pollute water sources when washed into the storm drains that empty into streams and lakes.

• Buy Green. Purchase pet beds, furniture and toys made from recycled or sustainable materials such as hemp. Environmentally friendly hemp can be used to make almost everything, like leashes, collars, beds and toys. Nowadays it is easy to find recycled pet products at large pet retailers all across the country.

• Buy in Bulk. Buying pet food and pet supplies in bulk not only saves money, it also conserves fuel and lowers emissions by saving you extra trips to the store. Consider buying a plastic bin to keep your pet’s food fresh. Some of the larger pet retail stores also sell litter in bulk- where you bring in your container and they fill it up. This saves packaging and also you a lot of money-as you get to buy the litter at a big discount.

• Pet Overpopulation. Make sure your pet isn’t adding to the pet over-population problem by having your pets spayed or neutered. Shelters spend millions of dollars caring for homeless pets. Be sure you aren’t contributing to this problem. Consider also donating your old towels, blankets to a nearby shelter-this helps you declutter, helps the shelter cut costs, and gives a needy pet a nice blanket to sleep on. If you have the time think about volunteering at a nearby shelter.

• Recycled Pets. If you are thinking about adding to your family think about getting a pet from the shelter. There are tons of “recycled pets” in need of a good home. While adopting one of these deserving pets may not lower emissions or save fuel, it can save a life.

One silver lining of COVID has been the realization of what we can accomplish if we work together for a common goal. In a short span of time, stay-at-home orders have produced tangible results, such as cleaner air and water. Across the globe, scientists have measured lower gas emissions and pollution levels as industries, transportation, and businesses have closed. In New York, pollution was reduced by nearly 50%, and in China, emissions fell 25% due to COVID restrictions. Although results are only short-term, they highlight what we could accomplish if we act as global citizens. This year, think about what you, and your pet can do to make our planet greener.

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Pet Tips

Pets and COVID-19

April 18, 2020April 22, 2020
by ruthmacpete

What You Need to Know About Pets and COVID-19

1. Can dogs and cats transmit COVID to people?
At this time there is no evidence that dogs or cats can transmit COVID-19 to humans.

2. Can pets get COVID?
There is some concern that COVID may spread from people to pets. There have been a small number of animals outside of the US that have tested positive for COVID-19. Recently, a tiger at the Bronx zoo test became the first animal in the US to test positive. All of the companion animals had been in close contact with one or more people infected with COVID-19. The tiger is believed to have been exposed by a zookeeper infected with COVID-19. More studies are needed to determine how susceptible animals are to COVID-19. According to the CDC, there are currently no reports of companion animals testing positive for COVID in the US.

3. What precautions do pet parents need to take with their pets if they are sick?
The CDC and the US Dept of Agriculture recommend that out of an abundance of caution, people diagnosed with COVID-19 or showing signs of COVID-19 should limit contact with their pets. This is the same advice they should follow to decrease the risk of exposing family members to COVID. If possible, consider asking another family member or a friend to care for your pets while you are sick.

This is a rapidly evolving situation and we are learning more about the coronavirus daily. For now, treat your pets like you would any other family member. Keep them inside (except for brief dog walks) and do not let them interact with other pets or people outside of your family.

To stay up to date on the latest news about COVID and pets go to the CDC’s website.

*****UPDATE April 22nd 2020

Two pet cats in NYC have just tested positive for COVID-19 making them the first companion animals in the US to become infected. Both cats had mild respiratory symptoms and are expected to make a full recovery. The CDC and the US Department of Agriculture emphasized the fact that there is no evidence that dogs or cats play a role in transmitting the virus to humans. The recommendation is still to treat pets like you would family members and limit contact with your pets if you are infected with COVID-19. They offered the following recommendations:

-Do not let pets interact with people or animals from other households

-Keep cats indoors if possible

-Walk your dog on a leash and stay 6 feet away from other people and animals

-Avoid dog parks or places where a large number of people and dogs may be gathered.

Click here for the article in the NY Times.

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Pet Tips

Pet Essentials During the COVID-19 Pandemic

April 15, 2020April 17, 2020
by ruthmacpete

While everyone across the country is following stay-at-home orders and stocking-up on household essentials, it is important for pet parents to plan for their pets too. Buying groceries and supplies either online or at a store is challenging during COVID-19, so it is important to plan ahead and make sure you have everything your pets need. Here are the main things you should be sure to have on hand for your pets during these challenging times.

Food
There is nothing more essential than food. While there are no current shortages in pet food, COVID has impacted our typically easy access to food supplies. People are following stay-at-home orders and making fewer trips to the store. Even online shopping has been impacted as a surge in demand has overwhelmed delivery services. Pet parents should plan for these disruptions by ensuring that their pets have an enough food to last for at least two weeks. Plan ahead and don’t wait until the food is almost out.

Medications
The same principles apply to medications and supplements. While veterinary clinics remain open, it is best to minimize errands as much as possible. For critical prescription medications like insulin and heart medications, make sure you do not run-out by either ordering refills weeks in advance, or keeping a surplus supply to last a few. The same is true for medications that impact quality of life, such as flea and heart preventatives, arthritis medications, and nutritional supplements.

Litter

Fortunately for cats, toilet paper shortages do not apply to cat litter. However, running out of litter would be a disaster, especially during the quarantine. In order to avoid this messy situation, make sure to buy at least a month’s supply. Cat litter does not expire and can be stored indefinitely. Consider choosing a litter like ökocat® that is made from reclaimed wood so it is not only lightweight for easy storing but it’s a cleaner and healthier litter too.

Grooming products
With non-essential shops like barbershops and hair salons being closed, many of us are resorting to cutting and coloring our hair at home. The same holds true for pet groomers. Make sure you order grooming supplies, like clippers and scissors, and grooming products, like pet shampoo, to keep your pets clean and looking great. While it might be tempting to use your own shampoo on your pet, human shampoos can dry out your pet’s skin and coat. It is always best to use a shampoo made specifically for pets. VetDerm Solutions Super Hydrating & Conditioning Pet Shampoo is contains shea butter, aloe, oatmeal and green tea to cleanse, hydrate and soothe your pet’s skin.

For dogs and cats that hate baths, consider using QuickBath Wipes to keep them clean and fresh while they are unable to go the groomers. They are made in the USA and contain aloe vera and vitamins to help moisturize your pet’s skin.

Toys
The quarantine is making everyone a little cabin crazy. Although our pets are enjoying having us at home, they are missing going to the dog park and getting exercise. Besides taking your dog out for a walk, consider buying new interactive toys or chew to keep your pets engaged and busy. In pets, boredom can lead to chewy and other destructive behavior.

The COVID pandemic has been an eye-opening experience. Besides highlighting the vulnerabilities of our economy and healthcare system, it has exposed how ill-prepared most of us are for emergencies. The COVID pandemic is a good reminder to be better prepared for future emergencies, and of course, to include your pets in your plans.

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Pet Tips

How to Keep Your Pet’s Teeth Healthy

February 17, 2020
by ruthmacpete

February is National Pet Dental Month and serves as a reminder of the importance of pet dental health. Did you know that dental disease is the number one health issue in pets? According to the American Veterinary Dental Society (AVDS), 80% of dogs over the age of three already have dental disease. What can pet parents do to keep their pet’s teeth clean and healthy?

Know your enemy
So how does dental disease develop? After a meal, food particles combine with saliva and bacteria to form plaque. If plaque isn’t removed, it mineralizes and becomes tartar. Tartar promotes bacterial infections below the gums, leading to gum recession, tooth loss and painful tooth root infections. Bacteria can even enter the blood stream and spread to distant organs, like the kidney, liver and heart.

Prevention
As in other aspects of medicine, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Keep your pet’s teeth healthy by keeping them clean. Start by brushing your pet’s teeth. Yes, you read that correctly. Brush your pet’s teeth on a regular basis, ideally daily, but at least a few times a week. Imagine what would happen to your teeth, and your breath, if you didn’t brush your teeth every day. So why would it be any different for our pets? Just make sure you use a toothbrush and toothpaste made specifically for pets. Pet toothpaste even comes in flavors your pet can’t resist, like chicken, beef, and seafood and it doesn’t have to be rinsed out.

While nothing beats regular brushing, oral rinses, dental diets and dental treats can help reduce the bacteria and plaque that lead to tartar formation. Dental Chews, like Smartmouth™, are uniquely textured to help remove plaque from your pet’s teeth while your pet chews the treats. The Missing Link’s Smartmouth™ dental chews also contain a daily dose of vitamins and supplements to promote healthy gums and overall health. Dogs loves their taste and you’ll love that they’re good for their teeth and health.

Treatment
Even if you brush your pet’s teeth and give them dental treats, your pet still needs to have their teeth checked at least once a year by your veterinarian. Your veterinarian will determine if your pet has dental disease and needs a professional cleaning or any additional treatment. A professional cleaning is done under anesthesia to ensure a thorough oral examination and cleaning of the tooth’s surface and below the gums where most bacteria and tartar are found. After a thorough cleaning, the teeth are polished to smooth the surface and prevent the recurrence of plaque. If necessary, diseased teeth will be extracted or undergo a root canal.

To quote Dr. Seuss, “They sure are handy when you smile. So keep your teeth around awhile”. The same is true for our pets. Brush their teeth, give them healthy dental treats and take them to the veterinarian for annual check-ups and professional cleanings as needed. By following these simple steps, your pet’s pearly whites will stay clean and healthy.

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