Top Ten Pet Myths

  Top Ten Pet Myths

Sorting through pet myths and pet truths can be a difficult task, but understanding the difference can be vital for your pet's health and well being. Let us help you separate the fact from the fiction and help your pet live the healthy, happy life he deserves.

  1. A warm or dry nose means a sick dog 

Regular fluctuations in the temperature and moisture of a dog's nose are normal Canine distemper used to be a prevalent virus which caused a thickening of the nose and footpads. A cold, wet nose indicated the dog didn't have distemper. Today distemper is uncommon due to vaccinations. 
   

  2. All cats are loners 

Many cats love company and spending time with their humans. It's not unusual for a cat to follow you around and try to 'help' with whatever chores you're doing - from typing emails to wrapping packages.
Read the Article: Is it Okay to Spoil Your Cat and Pamper Your Pooch? >  

  3. Eating Grass = A Sick Pet or an Upset Stomach 

It's believed that grass is a normal part of the ancestral diet for both dogs and cats, consumed in the belly of their prey. Many pets eat grass because it tastes good, or because they crave certain nutrients missing from their food. While some pets vomit after eating too much grass, this is generally a side effect, not an intended result. If your dog or cat regularly eats too much grass and vomits, you should probably discourage eating grass and look for ways to enhance their diet. 

  4. You can't teach an old dog new tricks 
You've heard it said a million times. But while this might be true for humans, it's definitely not for dogs! Fifteen minutes a day is usually enough to teach the most stubborn dog to sit, stay and a few other fun tricks. 
Read the Article: Train your dog to come to you every time! >  

  5. A purring cat is a happy cat and a wagging tail means a happy dog 
Cats purr when they're happy, but also when they're anxious or nervous. In the same way, dogs wag their tails to show happiness, but also excitement, stress, or even aggression. Pay attention to the overall body language of dogs and cats to fully understand a wagging tail or a purr. 
Explore natural remedies for stress & anxiety >  

  6. Giving supplements to pets is a painful & difficult process
Not true! Many supplements come in powders, tasty chewables, or even treats - and pill pockets can work wonders. 
   

  7. When pets lick their wounds, it speeds up healing 
Licking a wound too much actually slows down the healing process. Speed up the healing process and ease irritation with all natural herbal ointments. 
Explore these soothing first aid options just for pets >  


  8. An itchy pet is always a sign of fleas 
Allergies are the most common cause of itching and licking, and there are other skin irritants and diseases which need to be ruled out as well when tracking the source of the itch. 


  9. MYTH: Pets get stiff when they get old (FACT: They get old when they get stiff!) 
Just like humans, you're not old till you feel old! Keep your dog playing like a puppy and your cat playing like a kitten with joint health support. 

  10. Changing foods is bad for your pet's digestion 
Would you want to eat dry cereal 3x/day every day? And changing up foods means overall better nutrition too, as long as it's healthy, high-quality foods. 

Pet Sitter vs Boarding – Which is better for your pet?

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 Pet Sitter vs Boarding – Which is better for your pet?

 by Taylor Malowney

When you plan a vacation, you can’t always take your pet with you. It’s important to make plans for your cat or dog so they’re well-fed and properly taken care of while you’re away. There are several options for traveling pet parents – hire a professional pet sitter or board them at a doggy daycare or kennel. The choice you select should take into account your pet’s age, type (cat or dog), and behavioral and medical needs.

Pet Sitting

This method of pet watching involves hiring a professional “pet sitter” to keep a close eye on your cat or dog from the safety and comfort of your home. Selecting a trustworthy sitter is essential; choose a company that thoroughly screens employees and is a member of the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters.

Pros

Your pet can keep his or her routine. Especially if you own a puppy or kitten, sticking to a bathroom and feeding regimen is essential.

Kennels can harbor highly contagious illnesses like kennel cough, intestinal parasites, and distemper. When your pet remains in the safety of their own home, exposure to these diseases is minimal.

In the event of an emergency, pet sitters are specially trained to handle any health emergencies that may occur. If you have a pet with special dietary or medical needs, the caretaker can administer medications.

Pets are given special attention and playtime with pet sitters; things that kennels charge extra for.

Pet sitters can also bring in mail, water plants, and turn lights on/off to deter burglars while you're away.

Cons

Since pet sitters typically charge anywhere from $10 upwards per house visit, that can add up fast; dogs need to be let out multiple times per day, especially puppies.

If your dog or cat doesn't react well to strangers, especially displaying signs of aggression, he or she may not be too fond of a pet sitter.
Boarding

This is the most common method pet parents select; it’s slightly cheaper than a pet sitter, but the quality of care is often less. Some doggy daycares are often more specialized and high-end than kennels – and also more expensive. Kennels will meet your pet’s basic needs – food, exercise, bathroom – for a lower price, but there are also hazards that go along with choosing this option.

Pros

Since pet sitters charge per visit, the charges can rack up; this is especially important for pet parents with canines. Kennels usually bill per day, with special extras offered for an additional price.

Cons

Contagious diseases, like kennel cough, distemper, giardiasis and coccidiosis are found in kennels. The cramped conditions make it simple for viruses and parasites to travel with ease among dogs and cats. Puppies and kittens especially should avoid being boarded as their immune systems are very susceptible to picking up these illnesses.

Since there’s so many animals in one place, the staff can’t give each pet special attention. Extra playtime or walk sessions must be purchased in addition to boarding fees.

The kennel will perform feedings, bathroom breaks, and walks according to their schedule, not yours. Particularly with puppies, sticking to a schedule is important, so boarding a young animal is not recommended.

The bottom line is this: while pet sitters offer higher quality care, they’re also more expensive; kennels are cheaper but can expose your dog to contagious illnesses and ruin their routines. Choose a pet care service that meets your dog or cat’s needs and your own budget. Pet parents with young animals or those with special medical needs should consider pet sitters in order to keep them on a strict regimen. Adult dogs without these requirements have no problems being boarded and emerge perfectly fine.

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Doggie Spa Day – Give Your Pooch the Westminster Treatment

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Doggie Spa Day – Give Your Pooch the           Westminster Treatment
by Taylor Malowney

A bear-like pooch gets groomed before the Westminister DogShow.  Image via www.petsadviser.com

The Westminster Dog Show airs  on NBC, with the finals on USA. The Westminster Kennel Club is hosting its 139th annual All Breeds Dog Show, and dog lovers are in for a treat!

These pooches are considered the best of their breeds, so the competition is fierce. Give your own pet a doggy spa day worthy of Westminster with these easy, at-home treatments.

Set the mood

Human spas are relaxing environments, full of tinkling waterfalls, oddly calming gongs, and pleasantly scented. Recreate a doggy version of this in your own bathroom at home! Dim the lights for a soothing atmosphere and put on some nature sounds. Lavender and lemongrass are pet-safe smells guaranteed to soothe the most savage beast.

Your body language and demeanor are also important to a home dog spa. Move slowly and use gentle movements. Some pets aren’t comfortable in baths, so make sure to give Fido plenty of TLC.

Most dogs love a good old fashioned brushing.  Use a rubber-tipped massage brush for extra luxury.  Image via Creative Commons license on Flickr

Do a pre-bath brush

Most pets find a good brushing relaxing! Removing excess fur before a bath cuts down on shedding as well. Pick a brush best suited to your pet’s coat length or style. Dogs with fluffier fur should use a comb, while flat coated pets can use a wire brush. The Furminator is a miracle brush with rave reviews; however, it is a tad on the pricey side.

When brushing your dog, use long, slow strokes for max relaxation. For the ultimate dog spa experience, invest in a massage brush, which as rubber-tipped bristles that stimulate healthy coat oils.

Test the temp

Dogs are very sensitive to temperature; too cold water results in pathetic shivering, while too hot can scald paws. If your pooch is a temperature Goldilocks, err on the side of caution and fill the tub with lukewarm water. Too chilly? Fill a pitcher or large cup with warmer water and use to rinse off Fido as you go.

Water can cool quickly in a chilly bathroom, so it’s important to maintain room temperature as well. Consider using a space heater to warm small rooms during and after the bath. If you think the room is too hot, your dog probably does too! Again, the key is to follow Goldilocks – not too hot, not too cold, but just right.

The pooch loves to rub a dub dub! Pick an all-natural shampoo for sensitive skin.  Image via Creative Commons license on Flickr.

Select a shampoo

These days, there are almost as many dog shampoos as human ones! The options can be overwhelming, but focus on your pet’s fur type or skin needs. Dogs with sensitive skin should avoid scents and bubbles; hypoallergenic dog shampoos often have oatmeal or aloe in them. 

There are plenty of all-natural dog shampoos in pet stores and online. Recipes for DIY dog shampoo are plentiful on Pinterest and pet lifestyle blogs. An easy mix is one cup baking soda and one cup oatmeal; mix with four cups of warm water and a teaspoon of dishwashing liquid. Don’t worry, Dawn and similar soaps are very gentle – rescuers often use it to clean sea birds after oil spills.

Toss in the towel

Finish off your at home dog spay day with a gentle yet firm toweling to remove excess water. Beware of your pooch’s own method of drying – the ol’ shake and drench. Even dogs can appreciate a fluffy towel; save the rags for cleaning and put your pet in the lap of luxury! Using a high quality towel also reduces drying time and how much your pet drenches you – win-win.

As an extra amenity, give your dog a dental chew for a minty fresh taste. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, brush your dog’s teeth with a flavored toothpaste. 

Thinking of insuring your furry friend.  Explore the cost at ExploreCost.com

Canine Hip Dysplasia – Could your dog have it?

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Canine Hip Dysplasia – Could your dog have it?

by Oona

          dog hip dysplasia

An x-ray of a dog with hip dysplasia. Photo courtesy of www.dogarthritisblog.info

Has your beloved pooch been limping, hopping or getting up slower lately? If so, he or she might be exhibiting symptoms of canine hip dysplasia, a genetic disease of the hip joint. Dogs with this condition have ball-and-socket joints that don’t fit quite right, causing discomfort when they walk around.

Hip dysplasia is a genetic condition, which means that certain dogs are more likely to get it than others. Larger dogs have about a 50% chance of acquiring it, and it usually occurs in purebreds, although mixed breeds can have it too. German shepherds, Labrador retrievers, Rottweilers, Great Danes, and Golden Retrievers all have a higher risk of hip dysplasia.

If you believe your pup is more likely to get hip dysplasia, talk to your veterinarian. She may  recommend the following steps to lessen the chance that your dog will develop it:

Rapid growth and weight gain is thought to increase an animal’s risk of hip dysplasia, as a bigger dog will put more strain on its joints. Avoid overfeeding. Feed your puppy 3 to 4 times a day, but an adult dog only twice per day.

Avoid rough play, such as jumping, long runs, and sliding on floors. These activities put strain on a dog’s hind leg joints.

Even these preventative measures may not completely protect your pet. Since the disease is caused by poorly-formed hip joints, it is present at birth, but symptoms may not be visible until middle or late life. Keep an eye out for the following symptoms of hip dysplasia in both your dogs and cats (yes, they can get it too!):

An altered gait – limping, hopping, etc.
Refuses to jump, run, or walk up stairs
Slow or stiff to rise from lying down or sitting

Your veterinarian is the only person who can determine whether or not your dog has hip dysplasia. Hip x-rays and a physical exam are needed to accurately diagnose your pet’s condition. Veterinarians will choose one of two courses – treatment with medications or surgery. Both options are typically very expensive for pet parents.

As an aside, Healthy Paws Pet Insurance covers hip dysplasia treatments in pets as long as the condition is diagnosed after the pet is insured and as long as the pet is insured by the age of six. Many insurance companies don’t cover this and many other genetic conditions that often develop in pets over their lifetimes, so be sure to read any insurance policies carefully.

Non-surgical treatment is for dogs showing mild symptoms of hip dysplasia, and aims to control and reduce side effects rather than eliminate them. Your dog would likely take medications, often on a daily basis, and could cost more than surgery over time. These medications can range from $50 to several hundred dollars per round of doses, depending on the type and duration. A drawback to this treatment is that even with medication, the disease can continue to progress, and surgical treatment may be necessary.

There are two common major surgical treatments that are used to help dogs with hip dysplasia. A Triple Pelvic Osteotomy (TPO) is performed on young dogs with less advanced forms of the disease. The pelvis is reconstructed, which allows the femur to fit better inside the joint and relieves pain. A Total Hip Replacement (THR) replaces your pet’s hip joint with a prosthetic one and costs from $2,000 to $4,000. Even if both your dog’s joints have dysplasia, generally only one will need to be replaced, as it will greatly reduce the stress in the other.

Canine hip dysplasia is a fairly common ailment, but with the appropriate preventative and medical treatments, your dog can live a healthy, happy life!

Thinking of Pet Health Insurance, explore the cost at ExploreCost

Treat Cats Like Cats, Not Dogs

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Treat Cats Like Cats, Not Dogs

by Courtney Buchanan

                 Image via Flickr user Juhan Sonin

Some cats are naturally dog-like, and some dogs are cat-like in their preferences and activities. But when people force cats to behave like dogs by taking them for walks or playing fetch, the pets get stressed out. They are innately independent creatures that often want to give their parents love on their own terms, whereas dogs are known for always wanting attention.

“We make the mistake of thinking [cats] should be affectionate towards us whenever we feel like it,” John Bradshaw, director of the Anthrozoology Institute at Bristol University, tells The Telegraph. “There are cats that will do that, but the majority do not.”

Before they were domesticated, cats were solitary and dogs were social. While dogs typically enjoy playing with other dogs and with people, cats prefer to have their own space and not constantly be touched. That’s why when people pet their cats that are hiding under the bed or they adopt another cat to keep the pet company, cats are internally rebelling. Felines would prefer to be on their own.


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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 Puppy a Glass Half Full Kind of Pooch?

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Pet Powwow: Is Your Puppy a Glass Half Full Kind of Pooch?

 by Marguerite McNeal

         
Pet parents often consider their puppy’s physical health, but what about the animal’s mental state? New research shows that dogs are inclined toward wither pessimism or optimism — much like their human counterparts.

Researchers at the University of Sydney studied 40 dogs and found that the animals had distinct outlooks, some sunnier than others. Lead researcher Melissa Starling says that the findings could be significant in determining roles for service dogs.

“If we knew how optimistic or pessimistic the best candidates for a working role are, we could test dogs’ optimism early and identify good candidates for training for that role,” Starling said in a press release. “A pessimistic dog that avoids risks would be better as a guide dog while an optimistic, persistent dog would be more suited to detecting drugs or explosives.”

Pessimistic dogs aren’t necessarily “unhappy,” the study found. Rather they’re satisfied with the way things are and might need more nudging to try something new.

Read more at Discovery News

Must-Reads This Week
Single pet parents take care: The number of American singles living with pets is on the rise. Though animal companionship might curb some loneliness, experts caution single pet parents to think carefully about their situations. Some dog breeds won’t tolerate being left alone, for instance. “Is the pet you’ve chosen suitable for your living space?” blogger John Davidson writes in The Denver Post. “How about your lifestyle? Can your pet handle it when you have to go out and leave it alone?”

Read more at The Denver Post

Puppy mills under increasing fire: During Puppy Mill Awareness Day, which took place yesterday, hundreds of supporters marched on Chicago’s Magnificent Mile to condemn the practice. Critics say the mills are inhumane and leave pets with lasting health issues. While the Cook County ban on puppy mills is being challenged in U.S. District Court, some local governments are passing their own ordinances to limit the sales of animals raised in puppy mills.

Read more at Chicago Tribune

Trendy cat homes support a cause: Fourteen U.S. architecture firms designed chic cat houses in a fundraiser for Architects for Animals, a nonprofit that raises awareness for animals in need of shelter. The firms designed elaborate structures using materials from concrete to artificial turf and they donated them to FixNation, a free Los Angeles-based spray-and-neuter group.