31 Common Pet Poisons

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 31 Common Pet Poisons

by Taylor Malowney

           Pet Parenting

As Poison Prevention Month draws to a close, we thought we’d give you the lowdown on these common pet poisons. What better way than to just list ‘em? Poisoning is one of the most common reasons for vet visits – pet parents spend upwards of $8 million on poison treatments every year. From A to Z, here are 31 of the most common pet poisons.

1. Acetaminophen. Brand name Tylenol, it’s also found in DayQuil and other pain relief medications.

2. Alcohol. Beer and liquor are the obvious hazards, but fruitcake and unbaked dough are also common pet poisons.

3. Antifreeze. Its sickly sweet flavor attracts pets; drips or puddles on garage floors are responsible for most dogs’ antifreeze poisoning.

4. Caffeine. Also known as methylxanthine toxicity, caffeine poisoning can result from soda, coffee, chocolate, energy drinks, and diet pills or supplements.

5. Chocolate. The most well-known of common pet poisons, the darker the chocolate – dark and baking chocolates can be deadly – the more severe the reaction. 

6. Detergent. Similar to antifreeze, laundry detergents and fabric softeners have a sweet scent and taste that’s tempting to pets but can result in burns to the mouth and digestive system.

7. Fertilizer. During spring and summer, pets’ paws can easily track in fertilizer; the problem arises later, when they ingest the poison while grooming.

8. Garlic. A little known pet poison, too much can lead to intestinal upset, diarrhea and vomiting in pets.

9. Gorilla Glue. Ingestion can have deadly effects, as the warm, humid stomach environment causes the glue to foam, rise and harden in the digestive system; surgery is typically required to remove the resulting mass.

10. Grapes and raisins. A very random pet poison, grapes and raisins are particularly toxic to dogs; the reasons are currently unknown.

11. Hand warmers. Pet parents should keep these iron-containing pouches out of paws’ reach.

12. Herbicides. Roundup is notorious for pet poisonings and is also thought to cause cancer in humans; keep pets inside for 24 hours if you must use weed killers, or use an all-natural method like vinegar.

13. Ibuprofen. An NSAID medication, ibuprofen poisoning typically results from pet parents unintentionally overdosing their pets. Never give your pet a non-animal specific medication without direction from your vet.

14. Marijuana. With the rise of medicinal and recreational marijuana, more pets than ever are experiencing marijuana poisoning, often from consuming marijuana-infused foods like brownies, cookies and candy.

15. Mothballs. When doing spring cleaning, keep these pesticide-filled products away from pets and discontinue use. 

16. Mouse/rat poison. Rodent poisons are extremely toxic to pets, and are typically kept within reach of curious noses; if you have a pest problem, consult a professional exterminator for pet-safe options. 

17. Mushrooms. We’re not just talking about magic ‘shrooms here – even household mushrooms can be toxic, so any ingestion is considered an emergency by vets.

18. Nicotine. Similar to issues surrounding marijuana poisoning, increased use of flavored e-cigarette products is dangerous for pets who find them sweet treats.

19. Onions. Cats and Japanese dog breed seem more sensitive to onion toxicity, which can lead to intestinal issues and anemia.

20. Pesticides. Spray-on products can cause mild gastrointestinal symptoms if ingested after application; the real danger arises when pets consume straight from the container in large doses.

21. Play dough. Homemade dough in particular is a common pet poison, as it contains high amounts of salt. 

22. Poinsettia. A seasonal peril, poinsettias are common holiday decorations but are only mildly toxic to pets, with symptoms affecting the digestive system.

23. Poison hemlock, ivy and oak. Symptoms of contact or accidental ingestion are identical to humans; however, pets’ fur typically prevents them, so most danger lies in the transfer to pet parents.

24. Rhododendrons. Pet parents should also beware of azaleas, rhodies’ smaller cousin; even the tiniest of ingestion can cause severe cardiovascular and gastrointestinal symptoms.

25. Rhubarb. A common pie ingredient, rhubarb is native to the Pacific Northwest and in warmer climates as well; symptoms are generally mild, except in large doses consumed by small animals.

26. Tick/flea medication. Over application or ingestion of these products can cause damage to the central nervous system and affect the heart.

27. Toads. The Colorado River and Marine toads are common throughout the southwest U.S. and tropical areas; immediate treatment is essential even for brief contact with a toad, as its secretions can be deadly.

28. Tulips and hyacinths. Commonly grown in household gardens, these flowers are beautiful but mildly toxic to pets..

29. Xylitol. While it may sound fancy, xylitol is an artificial sweetener present in sugar-free items like snacks, toothpaste and gum.

30. Yew. Every part of the yew tree is considered poisonous, especially to animals, who may experience life-threatening changes in vital signs and seizures. 

31. Zinc and lead. So-called “heavy metal poisoning” occurs when pets consume products containing the metals, like diaper creme, nuts and bolts, and some coins.

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Tech is Going to the Dogs

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Tech is Going to the Dogs

by Taylor Malowney

In our increasingly tech-crazy world, even dogs are getting in on the action. Fitness trackers are making their way onto canines’ collars, monitored by pet parents from their smart phones. Technology is also producing innovations in veterinary medicine, with cost-cutting benefits for pet parents. Here’s a look at some up-and-coming tech, just for pets.

No More Woof is basically a mind reading headset for your pet. Still in development by the Nordic Society for Invention and Development, it claims to read your pet’s emotions by monitoring brain signals. Funded by an Indiegogo campaign, No More Woof reached twice its intended funding thanks to pet parents’ high interest level. I mean, who wouldn’t want to read their pet’s mind? 

No More Woof on Indiegogo

The No More Woof headset aims to translate your pet’s brain patterns into English!

No More Woof works (in theory) using “the latest technology in micro computing and EEG,” finding and analyzing patterns in your pet’s brain and translating them into “human language” via a loudspeaker. English is currently supported, with Spanish, French and Mandarin in development. The Nordic Society has supposedly deciphered paterns indicated hunger, excitement and sleepiness already – what else do dog’s think about?

Courtesy of Voyce.Voyce 

 The Voyce Member Portal gives you access to your pet’s data, as well as exclusive articles on pet health and behaviour. Courtesy of Voyce.
Voyce

One of several pet fitness trackers on the market, Voyce is a collar that monitors your pet’s health. Using radio frequency-based tech, the device measures heart and respiratory rates. It also tracks your pet’s rest, calories burned, and distance traveled. Pet parents can access their pet’s data in the Voyce Member Portal, which is accessed through the web or smart phone apps. The Member Portal also features a vast array of pet health and behavioural articles, which are recommended to pet parents based on their dog’s health needs. 

The rechargeable battery’s life is estimated at one week; the collar is waterproof up to three feet and adjustable for a wide range of breeds and sizes.

Currently available for order, Voyce costs $299 plus shipping and tax, as well as a monthly ($9.95) or yearly ($99.95) membership plan.

Courtesy of Tagg

Tagg and Tagg Plus track your pet’s GPS location using a cellular network. Perfect for escape artists! 

Tagg is another collar-based pet tech, except its sole purpose is GPS tracking. Perfect for the escape artist, Tagg attaches to your pet’s collar. The device uses geofencing, sending alerts when your pet leaves a selected area. If your pet does escape, Tagg will send you the nearest address to Fido’s location. Tagg uses the Verizon Wireless network to track your pet, which is contract- and fee-free.

Although still in pre-order stages, Tagg Plus has an air temperature sensor that sends alerts when your pet is too hot or too cold. It’s also touted as more durable and compact, with a longer battery life. The company recently partnered with Whistle, a pet activity tracker, to bring health data gathering to the Tagg Plus. 

Both require subscription plans – $9.95/month, $95.40/year, or $166.80 every two years. 

Technology is reaching veterinary medicine, too. As 3D printers go down in price, they’re being applied in all sorts of useful ways – including 3D printing limbs. Derby, a Husky mix born with deformed front legs, is the most famous recipient of 3D printed legs. His foster mom worked for a specialty 3D printing company; she designed and printed Derby’s legs. The apparatus is similar to the curved blade-like prostheses used by humans; its curved design allows Derby to run and prevents him from getting stuck in the mud.

“He runs with [my wife] and I every day, at least two to three miles,” said Derby’s new pet parent, Dom Portanova. “When I saw him sprinting like that on his new legs, it was just amazing.”

Thinking of pet health insurance?  It is not as expensive as you may think, explore the cost with a no obligation quote at ExploreCost.com

7 Cheap Ways to Protect Pets’ Chompers

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7 Cheap Ways to Protect Pets’ Chompers

 by Taylor Malowney

         Image via Creative Commons license on Flickr

        

Buddy and his chew toy are best pals. Encourage healthy chewing to fight plaque and tartar!

Dental hygiene is often neglected in cats and dogs – have you ever tried to brush a cat’s teeth? Keep your pets healthy with these cheap ways to protect their teeth.

1. Feed your pet a meat-based food.

While it might sound weird, pets were made to eat meat. Feeding your little carnivore a pet food containing a healthy portion of meat – such as chicken, beef, lamb or fish – keeps healthy bacteria in check. Watch out for grain-based pet foods, which can also cause food intolerances and allergies.

2. Encourage healthy chewing.

Dental chews are a type of pet treat that is yummy and teeth-friendly. Usually made from a variety of grains and vegetable proteins, dental chews act like toothbrushes, removing plaque and tartar as your pet chews. These irresistible treats also act as breath mints, a win-win for pets and their parents. Make sure your product is certified by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC)!

Image via Creative Commons license on Flickr

 

Herbs like cilantro can naturally freshen your pet’s breath! 

We said before to feed your pet a meat-based diet, and that’s still true! The bulk of your pet’s food should be meat-based. Veggies like carrots, cucumber, and celery are naturally teeth-cleaning, as are fruits like watermelon and apples. These treats are most effective two to three times weekly; any more can cause stomach issues.

4. Make all-natural breath mints.

Herbs like cilantro and parsley can quickly freshen pets’ stinky breath! Try chopping and adding to your pet’s food for a sneaky breath refresher. Drizzling coconut oil over food can also reduce harmful bacteria in your pet’s mouth, decreasing their chances of dental inflammation or infection.

5. Softer bones are easier on teeth.

If your pooch loves a good bone to gnaw on, try a knucklebone. They’re softer and less likely to damage your pet’s teeth or gums. Avoid hard or brittle bones like ribs, hooves or shank.

Image via Creative Commons license on Flickr

 

Look at those pearly whites! Schedule your pet’s dental exam today. 

Thinking of protecting your pet with health care insurance?  You can explore the cost at explorecost.com.  If you could not afford treatment what would happen to your furry friend?

Controlling your Dog’s Weight

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Controlling your Dog’s Weight

by Steve Siadek

Several years ago, our rather sedentary dog began to pack on the pounds. Gator isn't your average Weimaraner.  He doesn't hunt (anything other than smells, at least), and his separation anxiety keeps him glued to my side at the dog park.  My web-footed “Weimie” is terrified of water, so swimming was out of the question.

Since he was on a healthy, high-grade food, it quickly clear that Gator’s weight issue would have to be addressed with a change in diet.

At the time, I worked for an animal rescue organization whose veterinarian, Dr. Ronald Lott, told me how he controlled his German Shepherds’ weight using canned green beans.  By replacing part of Gator’s dry dog food with the green beans, our boy dropped 18 pounds over 6 months.  The beans provided fiber and contained very few calories, and Gator loves them.

At this point, I should add that before changing your dog’s diet or embarking on any kind of weight loss program, you should enlist the advice of your own veterinarian.  He or she knows your dog’s needs and can point you in the right direction.

That being said, extra pounds do place considerable stress on a dog’s heart and lungs, which can contribute to serious health problems, such as heart disease and high blood pressure.  So canine owners should definitely be conscious of their dog’s weight.

Have you ever noticed the stiffness and obvious limping in some older dogs?  Overweight dogs are more likely to develop osteoarthritis in their joints as they age.  This painful condition can often be avoided, or at least minimized, by keeping Fido’s weight under control.

Think about what your dog eats.  Do you know what’s really in it?  Over the last 4 years, I’ve learned a great deal about pet food, and I’m committed to sharing that information on my own websites.  Both canned and dry dog food can contain ingredients that contribute to weight gain.  Read the label!  If you see any form of corn, a change in diet is in order.  Corn is used by pet food manufacturing companies as a cheap replacement for quality protein.  But corn is a carbohydrate and will contribute to weight gain.  Better dog food won’t contain corn.

Look at the first 4 ingredients on the label.  If you see corn, wheat, rice, potato or any other starch, you may want to shop for something else to help your pup lose weight.  The first 4 ingredients contain the most weight in the product, which means that any carbohydrates included translate to calories, and that translates to weight gain!

You may have to pay a bit more for a higher quality pet food but if it helps your dog lose weight and enjoy a healthier life, it will be worth it.  If budget is an issue, and for most of us it is, healthy pet food can be found at reasonable prices.  You just have to search for it.

Pay attention to other food items that your dog consumes.  During Gator’s “fatty” period, he often ate people food snacks.  If my husband made toast with peanut butter, Gator was right beside him, waiting for a hand-out.  With the change in his food, we changed his treats.  I keep a bag of fresh baby carrots in the refrigerator, just for the dogs.  Baby carrots are the right size for a treat and are low in calories.

Exercise is crucial for dogs.  Not only does it keep the weight off; it also helps the animal retain muscle tone.  If your pet is small, he might do just fine with only a daily walk or two.  But larger animals need more.

Playing ball with you or catching a tossed Frisbee are easy ways to get Fido moving.  Running around a dog park with other canines also provides cardio exercise.  Swimming improves cardio and muscle tone.

Today, our Gator is a healthy 99 pounds and at the height of a female Great Dane, this is a perfect weight for him.  His weight is maintained with a diet of a really good dry kibble and green beans.  No people food, ever, except for baby carrots used as treats!

Through Gator’s weight problems, we learned a valuable lesson about the dangers of pet obesity. Hopefully what we’ve learned with Gator can help inform healthy food decisions for your dog.

About the Author: Carol North is the president of Seniors for Pets, Inc, a 501(c)3 non-profit assisting SW Florida seniors with basic veterinary needs for their pets.  She also publishes FeedingFidoandFluffy.com, a website devoted to the feeding and care of healthy pets.

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Healthy Paws Pet Insurance offers a 30 Day free look period

Affordable Pet HealthCare Insurance - Your Pets Deserve it

Healthy Paws Pet Insurance offers a 30 Day free look period

30 DAY LOOK PERIOD - If you are not satisfied with this policy within thirty (30) days of the Policy Effective
Date, you may cancel your insurance. We will refund your premium in full, as long as you have not submitted a
claim. 

Does your pet have health insurance?  Healthy Paws Pet Insurance provides coverage  with no limits on claims.

If your pet needs treatment for any accident or illness and it's not a pre-existing condition, you're covered.  It's that simple

 Get an Instant Quote and take the first step to protect your furry best friend.

 Common Injury in Kittens – Electrocution

by Taylor Malowney

Kittens are known for making the world their playground. It’s important to make their environment safe and remove any potential hazards. However, accidents do happen; those involving electrical cords are more common than you’d think.

Causes

Chewing or clawing at electrical cords can cause the plastic coating to wear or fray, leaving a live exposed wire underneath. This can give a kitten a nasty shock and burns; some severe shocks can even lead to heart and lung problems. Strangulation or choking is also a threat – kittens see dangling cords as playthings and can accidentally get looped in them, leading to tragedy.

Symptoms

Signs of mild electrocution include singed whiskers or fur around the mouth. If you see any raw, red skin, this can indicate a more serious burn; seek veterinary attention, as burns can be painful or become infected. More severe symptoms of electrocution affect the cardiovascular and pulmonary systems:

Coughing
Rapid or difficulty breathing
“Crackling” lung sounds
Blue skin
Rapid heart rate
Muscle tremors
Seizure
Physical collapse
Kittens displaying these symptoms following electrical shock require emergency veterinary care – their bodies are so delicate that organ failure or death can quickly follow.

Pulmonary edema, or fluid in the lungs, is a symptom of electrocution that reveals itself anywhere from a few hours to several days after the initial incident. If your kitten’s breathing is wheezy, dry, and they are panting open-mouthed, seek veterinary attention to treat this dangerous side-effect.

Emergency Procedure

If you see your kitten being electrocuted, do not immediately attempt to touch him; this could lead to you becoming shocked too! Instead, turn off the electricity first.
If your cat is in water, use a broom handle or non-conductive pole to move him.
Look for vital signs – a heartbeat and breathing. If your kitten is unresponsive, perform CPR.
Gently wrap your cat in a towel and seek emergency veterinary care.
Treatment

Your vet will first make sure your kitten’s heartbeat and breathing are stable and then move on to treating any burns. Following a severe electrocution, the veterinarian may keep your pet overnight to watch for pulmonary edema. If your pet is presenting signs of this condition, diuretic medications will be prescribed to remove the fluid. Before you can take your kitten home, a battery of tests will be conducted to ensure all vitals are back to normal.

Management

After an electrical shock, if your kitten has burns in or around their mouth they may be hesitant to eat dry food. Try feeding them softer or liquefied foods until the wounds have healed. Check your kitten’s burns for signs of infection like abnormal discharge, bad smells, and swelling.

Prevention

Keep all electrical cords out of paw’s reach and replace any that are worn or frayed; any exposed wires can cause serious damage, not to mention be fire hazards. Consider placing child-proof protective covers on all wall sockets to ward off curious paws.

Keeping your home safe from any hazards is important in order to protect your kitten. Electric shocks can be life-threatening for kittens’ small bodies. If your pet has been electrocuted, seek veterinary attention to ward off dangerous complications like pulmonary edema.

Thinking of protecting your furry friend with health care, explore the cost at ExploreCost.com

Dog Park Etiquette

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Dog Park Etiquette

by Taylor Malowney

Here at Healthy Paws, we love to hit the dog park with our pets. Dog parks are fun ways for pet parents to socialize and exercise pets! Dog parks are also shared spaces. Respecting the rules and etiquette of the dog park keeps it a safe, enjoyable place to be.

Do clean up after your pet. Although doggie bags are available at some parks, always bring your own! Dog parks are free, public places – it’s common courtesy to keep them clean.

Don’t bring puppies under four months to the park. Young dogs’ immune systems aren't fully developed and they can catch all sorts of diseases. Dog parks are breeding grounds for intestinal parasites, parvovirus, and kennel cough.

Do have your dog up-to-date on all vaccinations. Basic vaccinations all dogs should have include distemper, rabies, hepatitis, bordetella (kennel cough), parvovirus, and parainfluenza. Some vaccines require booster shots, so it’s best to schedule yearly vet appointments to keep your pet fully vaccinated.

Do supervise your pet at all times. Never leave your dog unattended in a dog park, especially when there are other dogs around. Avoid talking on a cell phone and don’t turn your back on your dog.

Don’t bring treats or toys to the dog park. These can attract other dogs and start fights. If you want to reward your pet, do so before or after you get to the dog park.

Do BYOW. (Bring your own water!) Have a bowl and bottled water on hand to quench your pet’s thirst. Communal bowls or troughs at dog parks are breeding grounds for  all sorts of parasites. Hookworms, roundworms, giardia, and coccidia can all be spread through water.

Do know your pet’s personality. Is your dog a bit of a bully? Nobody’s pet is perfect! If your pet likes to be top dog, the dog park may not be the best option. Dog parks can be overwhelming for anxious or shy dogs. If you have any doubts about your pet’s behavior, keep Fido at home.

Dog parks are great ways to provide your pet with exercise and new playmates. Remember that the dog park is a shared, public place. Use common courtesy and follow any posted rules at the park. To find a dog park near you, use an online resources like DogPark.com or DogGoes.

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Veterinary Technicians Specialists

Affordable Pet HealthCare Insurance - Your Pets Deserve it

Affordable Pet HealthCare Insurance - Your Pets Deserve it

Veterinary Technicians Specialists

Sleuth the Reporter Dog knows that pet owners can be very nervous and concerned when the veterinarian talks about sending their beloved pet to a specialist.  Whatever the problem is, Sleuth has found out that there are some pretty special team members at the specialty hospital who just might be able to help calm some fears!  Meet the Veterinary Technician Specialists!

1)    Like veterinarians who specialize in areas such as dentistry or oncology, credentialed veterinary technicians now have some amazing opportunities for furthering their education and providing a higher level of care for our dogs and cats.

2)    Veterinary Technician Specialists, or VTSs, are instrumental in helping these expert doctors with some of veterinary medicine’s most challenging cases.  From dogs and cats to horses and even zoo animals, VTSs are there to assist the veterinarian, comfort the pets and help with client questions and concerns.

3)    The National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA) gave accreditation to the very first technician specialty back in 1994.  This was the year that the Academy of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Technicians was created.

4)    Since that time, 10 new academies have been created that allow technicians to specialize in everything from anesthesia to dentistry and equine medicine to nutrition and even zoo animal medicine.

5)    The path to specialization is not an easy one though!  Applicants must work thousands of hours in their chosen area and log dozens of cases for review.  This work is then reviewed by the Academy’s certification board.

6)    Even after that work is complete, the applicant must still prove that they have earned enough continuing education credits in their area of specialization and provide two letters of recommendation.  Only then will potential technician specialist be allowed to sit for a certification examination.

7)    Upon passing their exam, the new Veterinary Technician Specialist will earn the credentials of VTS along with a designation of their area of specialty.  For example, technician specialists in anesthesia are credentialed as “VTSA”.

8)    These dedicated individuals, along with the whole veterinary team, are so important to the care that your pets receive while at a veterinary specialty hospital.  Their hard work and advanced education means that you know your furry friends are in good, knowledgeable hands! 

9)    Sites like MyVNN.com can provide you with accurate and unbiased pet health information.

Does your pet have health insurance?  Healthy Paws Pet Insurance provides coverage  with no limits on claims.

If your pet needs treatment for any accident or illness and it's not a pre-existing condition, you're covered.  It's that simple

Get Healthy With Your Pet - At a Doggy Gym

Affordable Pet HealthCare Insurance - Your Pets Deserve it

 Get Healthy With Your Pet — At a Doggy Gym

by Maeghan Ouimet

People often say pets take after their pet parents: look, demeanor, you name it. Unfortunately, health issues also tend to be shared. With nearly one-third of Americans suffering from obesity in the United States, pets are following suit. According to The Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, an estimated 52 percent of American dogs are overweight or obese, while the same can be said for 57 percent of the cat population in America. The good news is that behaviors can be changed and pets and their parents can work together to lead a healthier lifestyle.

One way both pets and their parents can get fit and lose weight is to hit the gym. A wave of pet gyms are springing up across the country and most of them offer ways for parents and their pets to get healthy side by side.

 “You have to do it together, so you strengthen the human-animal bond,” Tricia Montgomery, founder and president of Chicago’s K9 Fit Club told Today. “We as the pet owner must be the one to get our dogs motivated and moving by working out with them.”

Here’s a look at four pet-focused fitness clubs across the country and the services they offer:

1. K9 Fit Club, Chicago, IL

Montgomery founded Fit Club after losing 130 pounds by working out with her dog. Today, K9 Fit Club offers classes for pets and pet parents as well as certification programs for folks who would like to create a K9 Fit Club in their own area. Montgomery says that pairing healthy behavior with pet interaction is an important step to weight loss for both two-legged and four-legged club members. Classes include cardio, agility and strength training, while also focusing on obedience training and commands. K9 Fit Club currently has locations in Illinois, Missouri, North Carolina and Massachusetts.

2. Fit BERNAL Fit, San Francisco, CA

This Bay Area gym offers more than the usual child day care options of many neighborhood gyms. It also offers pet care while pet parents get their workout in. Fit BERNAL Fit was one of the first gyms in the nation to offer dog day care in 2009. Most pet parents are busy and often have to opt for a walk with Fido or a visit to the gym — rarely both. Either way, one of these activities gets the short end of the stick. At Fit, pet parents can work out while Fit employees play with dogs and take them for walks. Fit also offers a dog lounge for dogs to play and socialize.

3. Frolick Dogs, Alexandria, VA

Though it opened just a few months ago, Frolick has already found a solid following in the greater Washington, D.C. area. The “canine sports club” boasts 6,000 square feet of air-conditioned space for dogs to run, jump, get groomed, board and attend wellness classes with their pet parents. Frolick takes the focus off the pet parent’s gym activities a bit more than some of the other pet gyms profiled here, but it’s wellness-first attitude makes it a welcome addition to most dogs’ daily routines.

4. Thank Dog! Bootcamp, Los Angeles, CA

At Thank Dog! your pet is your workout partner. Founder Jill Bowers thought of the idea while losing 40 pounds at a (human-only) workout bootcamp. She soon learned that lack of exercise is the top reason for behavioral problems in dogs, and realized that her wellness is equally as important as her pets’. Enter Thank Dog! The bootcamp’s goal is simple yet meaningful, pairing dog and fitness trainers together to reach its goals: “Thank Dog! Bootcamp’s mission is to transform the lives of people and their dogs by providing a unique and challenging, yet fun fitness program that combines body workouts and dog obedience for the healthy success of both man and his best friend.”

Of course, there is a cost factor to all of these gyms, but many pet parents are willing to pay. Americans happily spent billions on their pets last year. These gyms not only help pet parents get healthy, they keep pets active — a great preventative measure for future costly health issues that could arise for humans and pets alike.

New Research Shows Dogs Share Humans’ Emotional Connection to Sound

Affordable Pet HealthCare Insurance - Your Pets Deserve it'

New Research Shows Dogs Share Humans’ Emotional Connection to Sound
by Lauren Zanolli

         
Your kids might just yell, “Go get the ball!” or “Want to go for a ride?,” but your dog hears — and feels — a whole lot more than just the words. That’s the gist of a new study that suggests that the brains of our canine companions share an unusually high-level trait with humans: the ability to identify the emotional meaning of sounds.

Researchers at the MTA-ELTE Comparative Ethology Research Group in Budapest studied the neurological response of 22 humans and 11 golden retrievers and border collies while listening to a variety of sounds — environmental  (cars, doorbells), human (laughing, crying, shouting) and canine (playful barking, aggressive growling) — associated with positive and negative emotions. While the experiment came with challenges (strapping the dogs into an MRI scanner for 8 minutes at a time) the study has impressed animal researchers. We spoke to Attila Andics, the lead researcher, to help pet parents understand a bit more about this dog ability.

Image via faz.net

What was the biggest surprise to you from this research?

Dogs, just as humans, seem to have a so-called “voice area” in their brain. It was first shown in 2000 that humans have a “voice area” — a brain region that responds more strongly to human voices than to any other sound. This, in itself, is not that surprising. The important part is that we seem to find this voice area in the very same part of the brain as humans. This means that this is a brain function that was most probably there in the last common ancestor of dogs and humans, which lived 100 million years ago.

What did you discover about how dogs understand emotion?

We showed that dogs and humans process vocal emotions very similarly. In both the dog and human brain there is a region, close to the primary auditory region, that responds more strongly to positive emotional vocalizations than negative sounds. This means that we, as humans, respond very similarly to dog emotions as to human emotions, and vice versa for dogs. This, in a way, explains what makes vocal communication between dogs and humans so successful. This can help the dog to tune into the owner’s emotions. Or it can help owners understand if the dog is happy or sad.

So what makes a sound more emotionally positive or negative?

Humans and dogs use the same basic acoustic parameters for emotional expression. When you want to show that you are sad, the basic acoustic properties of the sounds you make are similar to what a dog might make if it were sad. There are two important parameters: call length and fundamental frequency, or pitch. Call length is the duration of a small beat in a vocalization (like one “woof” in the “woof woof woof” of a bark). A human laughing like “ha ha ha” is also in short beats. Short beats equals happy. Negative emotions are usually longer beats. Long beats, even if part of a laugh, can sound like crying to a dog. When a dog is aggressive, it tends to bark in longer tones. The pitch is the other important parameter. The higher the voice, usually the more intense emotions are. When a dog or a human is vocalizing higher, it usually means the it is more aroused or excited.

So, the human brain can exploit the fact that dogs play around with the same parameters when making emotional vocalizations. Humans don’t have to develop a new brain mechanisms to understand dogs. You can use the same mechanism that you use for humans — the very same logic and the same brain center.

Lastly, how did you train the dogs to stay still in an MRI machine

We paired up with a group of ethologists that have been working on this training method for ten years that allowed us to put these dogs in an MRI scanner in a way that also makes them really happy. The training wasn’t very complicated and there was nothing special about the dogs that were chosen.

Positive reinforcement was crucial. They were praised and given social rewards for cooperating. Eventually the dogs figured out that to make their owner happy, the only thing they had to do is lay down and be motionless. We trained more than one dog at a time so when the other dogs saw that there was a dog being stroked and praised on the scanner bed, they figured out — oh, that is where I want to be. These dogs would actually compete with each other to be the next one to lie in the scanner. So, what makes this really amazing is that we are not working with sedated animals, we are working with happy volunteers. This is the thing that is quite special about dogs that we don’t see in other species — it is very important for the dog to please its owner.

Thinking of  purchasing pet health insurance, explore the cost at ExploreCost.

5 Clever Ways to Unchain Your Pooch

Affordable Pet HealthCare Insurance - Your Pets Deserve it

 5 Clever Ways to Unchain Your Pooch

by Taylor Malowney

Pet Parenting
Some pets are master escape artists: adding a fence extension deters jumpers.
                        Image via Creative Commons license on Flickr.

  

    
Some pets are master escape artists; adding a fence extension deters jumpers. Image via Creative Commons license on Flickr.
February is Unchain Your Dog Month! We understand that some pooches are just crafty escape artists worthy of a Steve McQueen movie, but there are safer, more comfortable ways than a long leash. 

1. Stop jumpers with a fence extension.

If Fido’s got a gold medal in the high jump, consider adding to your fence. Not the cheapest option, but definitely a permanent solution, a fence extension stops escaping dogs in their tracks. 

This method isn’t necessarily about increasing the height of the fence, just preventing your pooch from climbing it. Dogs tend to scramble up fences or use nearby objects for a boost. Your fence extension should be angle inward at around 45 degrees to thwart escape artists.

2. Create a dog run.

For pets who enjoy the great indoors as well, allow house and yard access with a dog run. The complexity and price tag of dog runs varies according to your pet’s needs. If you have a deck and a front yard, remove a few rails and lay down a small ramp into the fenced area.

Another version of the dog run is basically a shed for your pet; some have wire or solid wood walls, while others connect to a dog house or a different area of the yard. A dog run gives your pooch some room to run around without the cost of fencing your whole yard.

Diggers can be especially destructive! Deter them with pet-safe-shrubs, or block the gap with large rocks.
                            Image via Creative Commons license on Flickr.

3. Deter diggers with obstacles.

Dogs who dig under fences are the sneakiest and most destructive. An easy fix for digging dogs is to bury chicken wire several inches deep near the bottom of fences. Another method is to place or bury large rocks in the fence’s gap.

Planting pet-friendly bushes or shrubs may also keep Fido from digging out. Camellias, hydrangeas and Heavenly Bamboo are all pet-safe shrubs good for backyards.

 4. Try a pet pulley run!

A pulley run, also called a dog trolley, is basically a zip line for dogs – except all four paws stay firmly on the ground! The dog is tethered to a long line with a pulley, so he or she can run up or down the length of the line. 

This is good for short periods of time, especially for dogs who are jumpers but can’t be supervised 24/7. 

If you suspect an animal's treatment is cruel or violates anti-chaining laws, call your local Animal Control Department.
                              Image via Creative Commons license on Flickr.

5. Be a pet hero.

In most states, it’s illegal to chain a dog, especially for an extended period of time. Check your state’s anti-chaining laws and keep a lookout for pets suffering in your neighborhood. 

If you suspect an animal is being chained – excessive whining or barking, scratching, or clinking noises – call your local animal control department immediately. For emergencies, where an animal may be ill or injured, call 911.

 Get pet insurance
We may be a little biased, being a pet insurance company, but we truly believe in the peace of mind it gives pet parents. Covering most non-preexisting conditions, a pet insurance policy ensures you'll never have to make hard decisions about your pet’s health. 

When the choice is between your furry family member and your finances, we all know which one we’d choose – but sometimes the choice isn't so easy. No pet parent should have to make that call, which is why we’re firm believers in the power of pet insurance.  

The Hidden Truth About Dog Love and Aggression

Affordable Pet HealthCare Insurance - Your Pets Deserve it

The Hidden Truth About Dog Love and Aggression

 by Courtney Buchanan

           

                                                                                Image via Can Stock Photo
We all love our dogs like family members and believe they love us back, which makes it all the more upsetting when our pets snarl, nip, or bite. So how do owners subdue that aggressive behavior? Brandon Fouche, a dog aggression expert with almost 30 years of experience, says the key is understanding how dogs process information and perhaps re-thinking your approach to play and positive reinforcement.

Here, Fouche shares why he’s fascinated by dog psychology and explains why playing fetch, among other things, may not be the best way to raise a calm canine.

Why did you first start researching dog aggression?

In the beginning, I was mauled by a German Shepherd. He broke his tooth off on my leg, I passed out and I woke up in the hospital. The doctor said I would probably never want to be around dogs, but he couldn't have been further from the truth since it drew me to understand why [dogs] would be aggressive to us.

That’s when I started to research positive reinforcement and the concept of learned behaviors versus genetic behaviors. I learned that we don’t have problems with the genetic makeup of our dogs, we have a problem with what we have the most control over — which is their learned behavior. And how we’re training our dogs exacerbates that problem.

What kind of training do you advise against? 

Training is essentially forcing them to do something that isn’t innate. It’s okay to train them to do tricks and play games, but when training causes aggression to kick in, that’s bad. Training and aggression-building tasks are different; high five and ‘roll over’ are different than ‘grab the stuffed animal and chase it.’

What is one of the worst training habits you see in pet owners?

Many pet owners are positively reinforcing negative behavior without realizing it. An example would be a when a dog jumps on your car. You say, ‘No, off. Sit,’ and the dogs sits, and then you say, ‘Good boy.’ You’ve just rewarded the dog being on the car. We took the command away, and then we told him he was a good boy and we rewarded the whole thing. We had the power and then we took it away from ourselves. The dog didn’t learn to not get on the car. He just complied with what you told him to do.

You say owners with aggressive dogs should not throw toys and stuffed animals, or even cuddle with their dogs. Why? 

The way nature intended animals to process information has to do with the fact that they are pack animals, which means that dogs have to live in a system of hierarchy. In every pack there are alphas, betas, subordinates and omegas, and they all perceive things differently based on the hierarchy. When we buy them toys, cuddle them and use baby talk, dogs may perceive it as people being weak or subordinate. Those actions bring out the predatory side of the dog, and they’re more likely to bite, chew and bark uncontrollably.

Often owners think that dogs need to be entertained, but they don’t. When we throw a toy for the dog to chase, that action is waking up a hormone in the dog that says, “kill.” When you throw something and the dog breaks it and pulls it apart, he’s learning an action that unfortunately he’s going to try to apply later in life with humans. Humans are socializing them in an incorrect way that triggers predatory behavior and subdues calm behavior. We should be socializing dogs so that added energy doesn't wake up the play drive.

Get pet insurance

We may be a little biased, being a pet insurance company, but we truly believe in the peace of mind it gives pet parents. Covering most non-preexisting conditions, a pet insurance policy ensures you'll never have to make hard decisions about your pet’s health. 

When the choice is between your furry family member and your finances, we all know which one we’d choose – but sometimes the choice isn't so easy. No pet parent should have to make that call, which is why we’re firm believers in the power of pet insurance.  

Is Your Dog the Ultimate Wingman? Online Dating

Affordable Pet HealthCare Insurance - Your Pets Deserve it

Is Your Dog the Ultimate Wingman?

 by Courtney Buchanan

Online dating sites are already personalized for busy executives, farmers and even those who want to rely on their DNA. But the newest entrants on the dating site scene allow pet parents to use their four-legged friends to find their soulmate.

These sites, including PetsDating.com and YouMustLoveDogsDating.com, match people based on their lifestyles — and their love of animals.

                                           

“Having a theme that is … about one’s passion makes it feel like you are looking for a needle in a smaller and far more relevant and appealing haystack,” Michal Ann Strahilevitz, a marketing professor at Golden Gate University in San Francisco, tells The Commercial Appeal.

Many of the pet-oriented dating sites encourage people to bring their pets along on the date to help break the ice. The owners can learn a lot about each other based on how they react to situations involving the animal. The pet’s manners and behavior can also give hints to its owner’s character.

“[With dogs on the date,] you find out right off the bat how everyone in a relationship will fit in,” Kris Rotonda, founder of YouMustLoveDogsDating.com, tells The Commercial Appeal.

But let’s face it: not every dog or cat is an ideal plus-one. Joanie Pelzer, a Chihuahua parent, tells The Commercial Appeal that her pooch, Hubbell, has some not-so-attractive personality traits that likely cost her a third date. Hubbell steals food, craves attention, must ride shotgun likes people more than dogs. Hubbell sabotaged a breakfast date with a man Pelzer had met on PetsDating.com by eating the date’s food. The faux pas was too much to overcome.

Some people argue that finding love online is difficult enough and that the pet component makes the search too complex. Dogs and cats, however, are good at sensing people’s personalities. A pet’s second opinion can help separate the bad matches from the good ones.

Trish McDermott, who worked for Match.com for 10 years as a dating expert and spokesperson, once met a man online who pushed her dog off the couch. McDermott met the man on a site that doesn't cater to pet owners, according to The Commercial Appeal. It was an obvious red flag.

Finding true love online isn't easy, but petcentric sites may be just the answer for pet parents seeking the perfect pet-loving match.

Get pet insurance

We may be a little biased, being a pet insurance company, but we truly believe in the peace of mind it gives pet parents. Covering most non-preexisting conditions, a pet insurance policy ensures you'll never have to make hard decisions about your pet’s health. 

When the choice is between your furry family member and your finances, we all know which one we’d choose – but sometimes the choice isn't so easy. No pet parent should have to make that call, which is why we’re firm believers in the power of pet insurance.