Heartworm Treatment - Part 2

 Treatment

Treatment of a mature heartworm infection can be very dangerous. When the arsenic-based drug is given to an infected dog, the massive die-off of the worms can cause severe inflammation and even respiratory failure. Not all dogs survive treatment. Clearly, prevention is the best option!

Alternatively, many veterinarians advocate simply giving the regular heartworm preventative to kill off any microfilariae already present and keep newly deposited larvae from developing, while waiting for the adult worms to die. This may be a more practical alternative for cats, or for dogs that do not have a severe infestation.

"There is no reason to give heartworm medicine to most pets year-round (except to make money for those who make and sell it!)"

Seasonal vs. year-round protection

Except for a the warmest parts of the U.S. (mainly in the southeast), heartworms are a completely seasonal problem. There is no reason to give heartworm medicine to most pets year-round (except to make money for those who make and sell it!).

In many areas of the country (northern and mountain states, for instance), such warm temperatures simply don't exist for most of the year, and sustained warm temperatures don't occur until at least June. In fact, only in Florida and south Texas is year-round heartworm transmission possible. Within 150 miles of the Gulf Coast, heartworm risk exists 9 months out of the year. In the rest of the country, heartworm transmission is possible between 3 and 7 months out of the year. Hawaii and Alaska have each had a few cases of canine heartworm, but the incidence in those states is very low.

It should be obvious that during seasons where there are no mosquitoes, there is no risk of heartworm. Evidently that little fact escaped the attention of the veterinarian who prescribed heartworm protection—in December–for a puppy living high in the Colorado mountains. At that altitude, temperatures are never warm enough for heartworms!

A debate about when to give heartworm preventatives was published in an April 2009 journal article ("Ask the Expert: Year-Round Heartworm Prevention: Two Viewpoints," by By Dwight Bowman and James Lok, published in NAVC Clinician's Brief, the official publication of the North American Veterinary Conference, 2009/04/01). Both authors are university professors in parasitology.

The argument presented by Dr. Bowman in favor of year-round heartworm medication focused on just two points: (1) the speculation that "scenarios can arise where transmission may occur in cooler climates in the 'off season;' and (2) the completely unrelated issue of prevention of internal parasites by additional drugs added to the heartworm preventative.

Arguing on the other side, Dr. Lok lays out the case for appropriate seasonal control, and concludes, "Besides incurring unnecessary costs for the client, indiscriminate application of broad-spectrum medications can engender further confusion about the primary imperative for these medications—heartworm prevention—and when they are most crucial—during the season of heartworm transmission."

Of course, if in any given year the weather is unseasonably warm for long enough, exceptions to those recommendations should be made.

Having looked at both sides of the issue, I have to agree with those who suggest that giving year-round treatment to animals in states where year-round transmission does not occur is doing an injustice to both the animals being given drugs they don't need, as well as the pocketbooks of their guardians. This argument is rarely presented since the drug companies have the resources to widely promote their views (and products) to consumers as well as veterinarians.

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?

Insurance Coverage for Alternative Pet Therapies

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Insurance Coverage for Alternative Pet Therapies

by Steve Siadek

 Healthy Paws is excited to now be providing alternative care coverage for cats and dogs! What exactly does alternative care coverage mean for your pets? It means Healthy Paws’ furry, four-legged policyholders are now covered to receive alternative therapies – such as acupuncture and chiropractic care – for conditions related to an accident, illness or injury.

While alternative medical treatments have been around for thousands of years and are used each year by millions of humans, it’s important to note that – as with any treatment for anything – the perfect solution for one pet’s health, may or may not be the perfect solution for another. It depends completely on the situation and on the pet.

Here is ABC's news' coverage on the topic of treating pets with the best human medicine available.

Watch the Video

 As far as how your Healthy Paws policy works, it’s important to note that alternative therapy treatments must be recommended and conducted under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian. Both are as important for the health of your pet, as they are for fulfilling the requirements of our coverage.

Additionally, to clarify a frequently asked question people have, we do provide direct payments for approved claims to the veterinary hospital for scheduled procedures treating some of the more expensive treatments such as cruciate ligament repairs, IVDD (back surgery), foreign body removal and cancer treatment to name a few. Most of these treatments are in the $2,000+ range and it’s very helpful to the pet parent if we pay the hospital directly. By providing direct pay to the veterinary hospital, the pet parent can focus on caring for their furry family member and not worrying about expensive medical care.

If you have any questions about Healthy Paws’ policy or our new alternative therapy coverage, we are happy to provide further details or help you with getting a pet insurance quote. To happy and healthy pets!

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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.

Save on pet veterinary medical cost by insuring your pet for less than a dollar a day.  FREE Quotes at ExploreCost.com

Veterinary Blood Bank 101: What They Are & Why Dogs Donate

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Veterinary Blood Bank 101: What They Are & Why Dogs Donate

by Courtney Buchanan

Just as humans donate blood to save the lives of others, dogs donate blood to save the lives of other pups that are suffering from chronic diseases or traumas. Curious about how veterinary blood banks operate and why people would have their pets donate blood? Dr. Sean Owens, medical director for University of California Davis’ veterinary blood bank, which has the largest dog donor program west of the Mississippi, recently shared with us the process for blood donation and the beneficial aspects of having a dog donate blood.

Image via UC Davis Veterinary School of Medicine/Facebook

Why would a dog owner want to have his pet donate blood?

When we opened up the program, we weren't sure why they would want to either. Over time, we realized that the unique bond that people have with their own animals extends their kindness to other animals as well. It’s a way for people to get involved with our teaching hospital and veterinary program, where they’re here on their own accord and it’s not a life-threatening position. Most people find out about us by word of mouth.

How do you vet a dog before he donates blood?

If you have a dog that you want to be a part of our program, he must weigh over 55 pounds and be less than 8 years of age, and you schedule an initial screening appointment during which we ascertain whether or not your dog is of the temperament that it wants to participate. We don’t force any animals to do anything they don’t want to do, and our technicians spoil the animals rotten with treats and love, so most of the animals drag their owners down the hall to give blood. Some animals just don’t like the process and they never get past the initial screening because they don’t like it.

During initial screening, we take the dog’s blood, make sure his organs are functioning normally and do a complete blood count. We screen him for all infectious diseases that can be transferred through blood and also blood type them. If they're accepted into the program for disposition and health reasons, we give them flea and tick control for the year as well. Overall it winds up being $600 to $700 in veterinary services as they get a physical exam every time they come in, so we keep them healthy.

It’s time to donate. What does the process involve?

We like dogs not to have eaten before they come in because if you ate a pint of ice cream and I took your blood, the fat from the ice cream shows up in blood and makes a foamy layer on top of the blood. When the dogs go home, we tell owners to give their dog access to food and water. That’s why we have a 55 pound lower limit because that’s the size that we can comfortably take a unit of blood without having any ill effect on them. Just like the Red Cross gives you cookies and orange juice, we put out a bowl of water for the dog and give them cookies and treats. After they give blood, the dogs might feel like something happened and they don’t know what, but there’s no ill effect.

When we take the dog’s blood, we hold the dog’s head up and just talk to the him for the three to five minutes that it takes. We take blood from the jugular vein in the neck, and after the blood flows into the bag, we put a little bandage on his neck and give him treats.

Tell me more about the process for dogs that receive transfusions.

If you've ever given blood yourself, it’s the same thing for dogs, cats and horses. We figure out the donor and recipient’s blood type, and after taking the donor’s blood, we mix the two bloods together to make sure they're compatible, so it doesn't clump together and one blood doesn't try to attack the other blood.

The blood complexity varies. Cats are the simplest in terms of blood groups. They have three blood groups: A, B and AB. Horses and cows are more complex. If you take permutations of their blood groups, you’d have over 400,000 individual variations. They're similar in complexity to people.

During the transfusion, we monitor the patient to receive blood because he can have a reaction. About six to eight percent of dogs will have some degree of transfusion reaction, which is about the same for people, and they’re usually mild, self-limiting reactions that are often associated with a fever. Those are reactions to proteins in the blood or white blood cells, and they are non life-threatening. Once we identify the reaction, we can usually keep giving the transfusion. Fortunately we have few reactions that are life-threatening.

There’s such a shortage of blood in the United States, and every unit that a dog gives is transfused into a patient. Most of the dogs or cats that receive blood would have died had they not received the blood. The people that participate in our program, they recognize that every time they bring their dog in, they save a dog’s life.

Thinking of pet insurance for your furry friend, explore the cost at ExploreCost.com

Veterinary Care Has Come a Long Way — As Have the Costs

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Veterinary Care Has Come a Long Way — As Have the Costs

by Marguerite McNeal

When Betsy Allen and her husband bought Sudbury Animal Hospital in 1987, the two veterinarians had to perform invasive, exploratory surgeries to determine if a dog or cat had cancer. Often those discoveries were made too late, and veterinary oncologists who could effectively treat the animals were few and far between.

Today, Allen and her colleagues can detect tumors with a simple ultrasound, and a practice just up the road has five or six cancer specialists ready to treat the disease. Early diagnosis of cancer and other chronic diseases is just one of many recent advances in veterinary medicine that help pets enjoy longer and healthier lives.

“I’ve been a vet for 29 years, and my husband has been a vet for 30 years, and things have changed significantly with the technology, diagnostics, and specialty practices that can save and treat animals,” Allen says.

But as the quality of care rises, so do the costs. One bichon frisé’s gall bladder surgery recently set his family back $6,000.

Image via Canstock

Much like with human medicine, pet care is shifting from reactive to proactive to prevent some of these costly procedures, says Dana Carne, a general practice veterinarian at North Providence, R.I.-based Ferguson Animal Hospital. “Many veterinarians are encouraging clients to become more educated about their pet’s health,” Carne says. “Pet owners play a very important role in their pet’s preventative health care, such as scheduling regular check ups, screening tests, vaccinations, monthly parasite preventative medications, as well as grooming and dental care.”

Faster Detection And Diagnosis

Today cats and dogs undergo treatments that range from ACL surgeries to chemotherapy to lung operations. For Allen and her husband, who are both general practitioners, the greatest advancements in their field have been in detection and speed.

“The biggest change for the general practitioner is the use of ultrasound,” she says. “It doesn’t involve anesthesia and poses no danger to the pet. That’s huge for an everyday tool.” Vets conduct abdominal ultrasounds and echocardiograms to detect conditions such as kidney infections and tumors, or to determine the location of swallowed objects that must be surgically removed. Veterinarians now also routinely conduct CT scans and MRIs to detect joint fractures and torn ligaments.

Faster response time is another benefit of modern veterinary care. While Allen used to send blood work to labs faraway for next-day analysis, her hospital’s in-house lab can now deliver results in ten minutes, she says. Digital radiology lets Allen send X-rays to specialists who can analyze and report back on complicated images within the hour.

Advances In Step With Human Medicine

The research in veterinary medicine and surgery is constantly evolving, much like human care. “Over the past decade, some of the trends in surgery are moving toward making procedures less invasive and less risky while improving recovery times,” Carne says. Laparoscopic surgery, which involves making very small incisions to perform the same surgeries that used to require large incisions to open up a body cavity such as the abdomen, thorax or a joint capsule, are increasingly common.

More vets also are turning to endoscopy, inserting a long tube into places like the intestines to visualize internal structures and perform minor procedures like biopsies, Carne says. “A common use of endoscopy is to remove a toy or other foreign object from a dog’s stomach via the mouth instead of surgically entering the stomach through the abdomen.”

A Heftier Bill To Foot 

Americans spent a record $56 billion on their pets in 2013, $14 billion of which went to veterinary care, according to the American Pet Products Association. When the group first started tracking spending in 1994, that figure was $17 billion annually.

“In 1987, a massively huge veterinary bill — your dog was sick for a week or had major surgery — was $500,” Allen says. “Now it’s not unusual for me to hear of six, seven, eight thousand dollars in unanticipated medical expenses.”

For many pet owners, the benefits of pricey procedures outweigh the costs. “We paid the whopping hospital bill with no regrets,” Roz Warren, grandmother of the bichon who underwent gallbladder surgery, writes in the New York Times. “Max, alive and well, is worth every penny.” Allen says that she knows a man who came out of retirement to pay for his cat’s $15,000 procedure.

Others are turning to pet insurance to minimize costs. Shandi Fosback, assistant manager on the Customer Care Team at Healthy Paws Pet Insurance, says that she frequently processes claims for cruciate ligament surgeries that cost between $4,500 and $6,000. Allen says that she and her husband see torn ACLs more often these days, in part because parents aren’t helping their pets maintain healthy weights. “We as a society are overfeeding ourselves and we’re overfeeding our pets, which leads to many more orthopedic problems,” she says.

And one injury often increases a dog’s likeliness to have another. “If a dog tears the cruciate ligament in one leg, the other leg will often have the same problem within approximately 18 months,” Fosback says. Her team also sees cases of Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) among small or long-backed dogs like dachshunds, bassets, Shih Tzu and French bulldogs, she says. These slipped or herniated discs in the back or neck result in claims between $6,000 and $8,000 for the initial diagnostics, hemilaminectomy surgery to repair the disc, and rehabilitation.

“As veterinary medicine is becoming more and more like human medicine, general practice veterinarians are often able to refer sick pets for specialized diagnostics and treatments,” Carne says. Veterinary oncologists are one example of specialists that are increasingly accessible for pets and their owners.

Fosback says that she commonly processes claims for lump and growth removal of cancerous masses. Procedures for removal, radiation and chemotherapy cost between $10,000 and $12,000 over the course of treatment, she says. Several veterinary specialty centers and teaching hospitals across the country are using CyberKnife radiosurgery to treat specific types of cancers in pets. While radiation and chemotherapy require treatments every two to four weeks, the CyberKnife treatment is a one-time procedure. Still, it costs $10,000 to $12,000, Fosback says.

Pet Health Shifts From Reactive To Proactive

Pet owners who understand the potential costs of caring for their animals can plan ahead to prevent bill shock. ACL tears, for instance, are common among overweight dogs because of additional stress on their knees, Allen says. Keeping dogs slim and active could prevent costly remedies down the line.

“Many veterinarians are encouraging clients to become more educated about their pet’s health,” Carne says. “One of the best resources for accurate and up to date information is not Dr. Google, but your pet’s primary veterinarian.” Other trustworthy online resources, such as the American Veterinary Medical Association site and veterinary university websites, can help pet parents keep their animals happy and healthy.

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Humane Society Helps Retired Bomb-Sniffing Dogs

Affordable Pet HealthCare Insurance - Your Pets Deserve it

 Humane Society Helps Retired Bomb-Sniffing Dogs 

by Taylor Malowney

           Pet Heroes
Formed in 1960, the Rancho Coastal Humane Society cares for homeless animals in San Diego County. A non-profit, 501(c)3 organization, RCHS is committed to finding pets forever homes while bringing awareness to the public. 

The shelter has partnered with Pets for Patriots and Purina’s Pet Adoption Program to help those in need. In addition, RCHS has its own Better With a Buddy program, which offers a reduced fee when you adopt two cats or kittens together.

Rancho Coastal Humane Society received a $1,000 grant through Healthy Paws’ Holiday Giving Program, rewarding their outstanding work with homeless pets and their long-lasting impacts in the San Diego community.

“As a 501(c)3 every donation is incredibly important,” said RCHS President and CEO Jim Silveira. “With this donation, we are now able to schedule a surgery on one of our dogs named Cheecha.”

Agar is a retired bomb sniffer who found his forever home, thanks to RCHS!

Image via www.rchumanesociety.com

Rescued from Kuwait, Cheecha is a retired contract working dog (CWD) who worked sniffing out bombs! A lovable German Shepherd, she was diagnosed with a medical luxating patella as well as a thyroid condition. Cheecha’s patella requires surgery, with an excellent prognosis, and her thyroid issues are under control with medication and diet changes. 

Agar and Nero are also former bomb sniffers brought to RCHS! While Cheecha, Agar and Nero have all found their forever homes, there are plenty of pets in need of forever homes at RCHS. Visit them at www.rchumanesociety.com, or like them on Facebook! 

Healthy Paws’ Every Quote Gives Hope program is funded by pet parents like you. With every pet insurance quote we receive, we donate to homeless pets across the nation. 

Healthy Paws Pet Insurance Discounts

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Are you smiling? Get your pet insurance quote now and we'll give you more to smile about.

Healthy Paws Pet Insurance Discounts

At Healthy Paws, we want our pet-passionate customers to be as happy as their pets. Which is why we're giving you even more ways to save when you protect your faithful four-legged family member.

We offer a variety of special discounts on our pet insurance plan. Below are just some of the discounts we give to members of organizations, associations, employers and many others. Getting these discounts is easy too. You can self-select your own discounts when you get an instant pet insurance quote.

By the way, you don't have to be a multiple-pet family to be eligible for a discount. We think all pet families deserve to save as much as possible!

10% Lifetime Discount for Animal Welfare Volunteers

Volunteers at local shelters or other animal welfare organizations save up to 10%.

10% Lifetime Discount for Military Service

Members of the U.S. Military save up to 10%
.
10% Lifetime Discount for Association or Alumni Organizations

Members of any Association or Alumni Organization save up to 10%
.
10% Lifetime Discount for Membership Groups

Members of groups, like AAA, AARP and, Costco, save up to 10%.

15% Lifetime Discount for Employer Sponsored Plans

Employees of companies that sponsor Healthy Paws plans for all employees save up to 15%. If we're not part of your voluntary benefit program, tell your HR representative you know a top-notch pet insurance company that deserves their sponsorship.

Are you smiling? Get your pet insurance quote now and we'll give you more to smile about.

Treat Yo’ Dog! – 10 Tips for Love Your Pet Day

Affordable Pet HealthCare Insurance - Your Pets Deserve it

Treat Yo’ Dog! – 10 Tips for Love Your Pet Day

by Taylor Malowney

NorCal GSP Rescue provides its pets with gentle dog massages.  Image via Creative Commons License on Flickr and Steve Cross Photography

 Tomorrow is Love Your Pet Day! While we always try to treat our pets with love and affection, sometimes it’s nice to go the extra mile. After all, who else but Fluffy and Fido would listen to you vent about your ex? And who would snuggle up next to you when you’re sick?

Go above and beyond for your dog this Love Your Pet Day. Try out one of our creative ideas and pamper your pet!

1. Make like a masseuse.

Even dogs aren’t invulnerable to the powers of massage. Start gently at your pet’s neck, moving your thumb and forefinger in circular motions to loosen the muscles. There tons of dog massage techniques used to relieve stiffness, calm pets, or warm up muscles. Feeling extra indulgent? Schedule your pet a massage at a doggy spa.

Even the tiniest pooch can enjoy the great outdoors.  Image via Creative Commons License on Flickr.

 2. Hit the hiking trails.

What better way to show your dog you care than a vacation? To dogs, your local hiking trail is an exotic getaway. Pick a trail according to your pet’s activity level; puppies and senior dogs may struggle with steep hills. Check your trail’s pet policies too! And always leash your pet to prevent runaways or tangles with other animals.

3. Bake some all-natural treats.

Your pet may look longingly into the kitchen, but this time the treats are pet friendly! Human cooking sites and Pinterest are full of DIY dog biscuits. Some are even no bake dog treats, for an easy treat on the go. Make dog treats at home in bulk and freeze to keep extras on hand. 

 Add some pizzazz to your pet's collar with a bow tie! Image via Creative Commons license on Flickr

4. Class up Fido’s collar!

Time to upgrade your pet – no, not like PuppySwap – and get your dog some new duds. Dog collars should be replaced as they become frayed or worn. Pick one that’s size-appropriate, according to your pet’s weight; too tight can cause difficulties breathing, while too loose will just slip off. Get creative with your dog’s collar! Show NFL spirit with a football team dog collar, or make your pet’s life a little more fancy with a bow tie.

5. Plan a lakeside picnic.

If hiking isn’t your thing, take your pet to a nearby park for a picnic. Make dog-friendly sandwiches for a special treat, and bring a comfy blanket to nap on. Some pets love to swim; take your pt paddleboarding or let Fido go for a dip solo. Make sure to bring a towel for the ride back!

Dog training can be a fun brainteaser for pets and less stress for you - a win-win!  Image via Creative Commons license on Flickr

6. Touch up training.

Refresh Fido’s manners with a dog training session. Pet stores offer lessons, and check online for Groupons or discounts in your area. Your pet’s already a perfect angel? Kick it up a notch and enroll in a dog agility course. Some pets have more exercise needs than others; weekly training can burn off excess energy.

7. Lay your pet in the lap of luxury.

Treat yo dog to a new bed for a gift that keeps on giving. The variety of styles and prices is practically endless. Consider a raised bed or one with supportive foam for senior dogs – both can help hip dyplasia and arthritis. If your pet prefers to curl up on a softer bed, look at shearling for extra warmth. Some beds are heated for extra appeal, using either timed heating pads or microwavable inserts.

8. Did someone say car ride?

It’s the little things that make dogs happy. Let your pet ride shotgun and get all the fresh air his head can take. It doesn’t have to be a special outing – Fido is more than happy to accompany you on short errands! Some businesses even allow leashed dogs, especially ini pet-friendly cities like Seattle and San Francisco.

Take your pet to the dog park for some quality butt sniffing and Frisbee catching.  Image via Creative Commons license on Flickr.

9. Visit the dog park!

Another oldie but goodie, no pet will turn down a visit to the dog park. If you’re a regular at one park, switch it up and try something new. If there aren’t any designated dog parks in your area, try pet-friendly beaches or parks to meet other pets. Still no options? Plan a doggy play date in a big backyard or nearby field.

10. Indulge with a dog-friendly dessert.

Pet-safe versions of Hershey Kisses, almond cake and peanut butter biscuits are all easy to make at home, complete with delectable icing and sprinkles. Pet bakeries are also a thing in trendy cities and pet boutiques. You can make an recipe pet friendly by removing ingredients like chocolate and excess sugar. Carrot cake is an easy dog-friendly dessert loved by pets and humans alik.

Thinking of Pet Insurance, investigate the cost at ExploreCost.com

Doggie Spa Day – Give Your Pooch the Westminster Treatment

Affordable Pet HealthCare Insurance - Your Pets Deserve it
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

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.

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New Research Shows Dogs Share Humans’ Emotional Connection to Sound

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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.

Lessons From One Dog’s Miraculous Survival

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Lessons From One Dog’s Miraculous Survival

by Marguerite McNeal

                                               Photo Murphy Braun/Facebook.com

In a real-life story reminiscent of Disney’s “Homeward Bound,” a golden retriever who survived 20 months in the wilderness returned to her family last month. Murphy, a 5-year-old female, was separated from Nathan Braun during a camping trip in California’s Tahoe National Forest more than 18 months ago.

“I was thrilled that this dog made it home,” says Brian Kilcommons, author and pet behavior expert. “It’s against the odds, by all means.”

Murphy’s breed certainly contributed to her survival, Kilcommons says. Golden retrievers were bred for

hunting, and their sense of smell and durable fur coats would help them survive two harsh winters. A pug would not have had the same fortune, according to Kilcommons.

The story, while heartwarming and newsworthy, underscores the need for families to take precautions when planning wilderness excursions with their pets.

Keeping pets safe in the wild
Training plays a crucial role in pet behavior during a camping trip or hike through the woods. “A lot of people don’t train their dogs and they expect the dogs to respond to them,” Kilcommons says. “They take them out into the wilderness. There are new sights and sounds; there are deer running; there are rabbits; there are birds. And they expect the dog to respond. If the dog takes off after a deer, it can go for miles and get lost.”

Owners should keep even well-trained dogs on a leash in the wilderness, Kilcommons says. He also recommends that families carry a picture of their dogs so that if the animal does get lost, owners can quickly share the pet’s information with the nearest animal control shelters.

Identification 2.0
In the event that pets stray from their families, proper identification is crucial to their recovery. These days that means more than donning a simple collar tag with an engraved phone number. More owners are using microchips to keep track of their beloved pets.

These implanted devices have been available to pets for 25 years, but their use recently has grown exponentially, says John Wade, a veterinarian and CEO of Microchip ID Systems, an information and product hub for the pet microchip industry.

Since microchips hit the market, vets have implanted them in some 30 million animals, Wade estimates. They insert the microchip, which is about the size of a grain of rice, under a pet’s skin between the shoulder blades. By scanning the microchip, vets and shelters can read the unique cat or dog ID code to identify the pet. “It’s a great recovery tool,” Wade says. “In the U.S., if you put all registries together you’re looking at 1,500 to 2,000 dogs a day recovered through microchips.”

Pet families are prone to making some mistakes when it comes to microchips, Wade says. First, they fail to register the pets. This means that animal shelters can’t connect a missing cat or dog to the identification information in the chip. Other times they’re not aware that their pets have microchips at all. Some breeders are required to microchip dogs, but they forget to tell new owners about the device. Some pet parents think that their animals are automatically registered. If they’re unsure, families should ask their vet to scan the dog to see if a chip is there, Wade says.

Pet owners also are using GPS systems, such as the Tagg dog tracker that attaches to a collar, to follow their pets using mobile devices. But GPS systems are less reliable if service is spotty, Kilcommons cautions.

While Murphy’s Tahoe survival story offers hope for lost pets, her case is the exception—not the rule. Pet families who take measures to train and identify their dogs will be prepared to enjoy the outdoors without the drama.

Thinking of Pet Insurance? Explore the cost at ExploreCost

5 Creative Ways to Be a Pet Hero

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 5 Creative Ways to Be a Pet Hero

by Taylor Malowney

          Pet Heroes

We all see the heartbreaking commercials for homeless pets – I’m looking at you, Sarah McLachlan! – and wish we could do something. But if not now, when? It’s easy to be a pet hero and you can even do it from home! Here are five creative ways to be a pet hero.

New or gently used pet supplies, like beds, are always needed as shelters!
                                                         Image via Commons license on Flkr

1. Start a supplies drive for your local shelter.
Animal shelters are always in need of funds, but often there are specific supplies they need. Check your local organization’s website for a wishlist of goods. Pet food, bedding, toys and cat litter are the most common items in need. 

Contact local pet and grocery stores for donations to animal shelters and reach out to friends and family over social media – maybe your Aunt Karen is an extreme couponer and has some extra cat food. 

Spread the word! Even gently used supplies are helpful, so stress that point when asking for donations.
2. Register to vote!
Although this may seem like more of a human hero thing, there’s plenty of legislature concerning animals, too. Animal cruelty prevention, vaccination requirements and anti-dog fighting are all subjects of bills across the nation. 

For information on animal rights politics in your area, check out the voter’s pamphlet you get in the mail. Additional information can be found online. A foster dog can be great company for a lonely pooch at home.
                                               Image via Creative Commons license of Flckr

3. Be a foster pet parent.
If you’re unable to permanently adopt or have extra room in your heart and home, consider fostering! Animal shelters are frequently overcrowded and short on space; some organizations rely entirely on foster homes to house their animals.

Requirements for foster pet parenting vary from shelter to shelter, so check before you apply. Having existing pets at home can also affect your foster eligibility, as homeless cats and dogs can be shy at first.

4.  Share shelters’ social media posts.
The internet has led to a boom in pet adoption – with thousands of adorable, adoptable pets at our fingertips, it makes sense we would be giving more pets forever homes. Animal shelters are taking advantage of the web’s cute overload factor, posting pets’ pics on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

Even if you’re not looking to adopt, odds are someone who sees your posts is! Retweet, share or regram homeless pets to get them more than 15 minutes. If you’re feeling particularly heroic, post pet pics firsthand.

Pet photographers should consider donating their time to an animal shelter; pet portraits help animals get adopted! Image 

Image via Creative Commons license on Flckr

5. Create for a cause!

Are you an artist? Many photographers, designers and artists donate portions from their total sales or purchases of a specific piece to charity. Others give animal shelters coupon codes, which they can use themselves or use to fundraise in raffles or silent auctions.

Consider creating a specific work and donating the proceeds to your local animal shelter! Or if you’re a pet photographer, donate your services to a shelter; high-quality, flattering photographs are needed to promote the animals online and help them get a forever home.
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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.