Pet Care

Pet ownership is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have. Being a responsible pet owner, however, requires providing the best care when your pets are ill and protecting them when well. Spend some time educating yourself about your pet and the chances of having serious medical disorders and other issues can be greatly reduced. Following are some tips to help you keep your pet as fit as can be and enjoy each others companionship to its fullest. Remember, every pet should have an annual visit with a veterinarian for a physical exam and vaccinations if needed. As spring approaches, ask about heart worm prevention and flea and tick treatment.

Dog Care Essential Care Dog Days of Summer What Every Dog Owner Should Have

Cat Care Common Hazards The Indoor Cat What Every Cat Owner Should Have

Dog Care
Caring for your most faithful companion can often be challenging. From routine health management to training and behavior, this section will get you started on the right foot for a long and healthy relationship.

Essential Care
Our pets depend on us for food, water, shelter, health care and most importantly friendship and love. Following a few simple but essential tips will help ensure you're loyal companion will be strong healthy and safe.

• Follow state and local laws. License your dog and have him vaccinated for rabies and other requirements.
• Collars and ID tags are a must. Even the most obedient and well-trained dog may get lost. Help him get home safely with clearly visible identification containing your name, address and telephone number.
• Spay or neuter your dog. This routing procedure may help your dog be healthier, live longer, and have fewer behavioral issues.
• Train your dog. Enrolling in a training class can help you positively control behavior and can offer the opportunity to further the emotional bond you have with your pet.
• Give your dog plenty of exercise to keep fit. Play with and walk your dog at least twice a day. Be sure to consult your veterinarian to be sure Fido isn't over-exerted.

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Dog Days of Summer
The lazy days of summer can be our dog's favorite time of the year. Following a few simple safety tips can keep Fido healthy and safe so you both can enjoy months of fun in the sun.

• Never leave your pet in the car. Even with the windows partially rolled down, the temperature in your car can surpass 120 degrees Fahrenheit in a matter of minutes. If you can't take Fido in with you, leave him home!
• Water, water and more water. Whether you are indoors or out, your dog will need plenty of water in the warm days of summer. Check to be sure her bowl is always filled. If you're going on a walk or hike, be sure to bring an adequate water supply—for both you and your dog.
• Don't over do it. Keeping your dog fit and trim with a daily exercise regime is important to their health. During hot weather keep the pace moderate, and watch out for heavy panting—a sign that it's time to take a break.

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What Every Dog Owner should Have
A basic first aid kit is essential to anyone who owns a dog. Following are some recommendations from the Humane Society of the United State (HSUS):

• A good pet first-aid book
• Phone numbers:
• Veterinarian
• The nearest emergency veterinary clinic
• A poison-control center or hotline
• Paperwork:
• Proof of rabies vaccination status
• Coies of other important medical records
• Rectal thermometer (your dog's temperature should not rise above 103°F or fall below 100°F)
• Latex gloves
• Ear-cleaning solution
• Nail clippers
• Adhesive tape
• Hydrogen peroxide
• Rubbing alcohol (isopropyl)
• Over-the-counter antibiotic ointment
• A Nylon leash
• A muzzle or strips of cotton to prevent biting

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Cat Care
Felines can be smart, playful, affectionate and oftentimes incredibly independent. However, to keep your cat healthy and safe, there are basic issues you should have a good understanding of.

Common Hazards
Cat's curiosities can get them into some pretty precarious situations. Taking precautions against seemingly benign household items can help to keep your pet safe and your sanity in check!

• Drapery and exposed electrical cords. Cats often like to chew on cords whether they are hanging from your drapes or plugging a lamp into a wall outlet. Use childproofing items to keep drapery cords off the floor. Also, be aware of where your electrical cords are. Keep them as out of sight as possible to help prevent possible electrocution or fire.
• Be able to identify poisonous plants. Often tempting to our furry friends, common plants like Easter lilies and philodendrons are toxic to cats and can kill them if consumed. Seek medical help immediately if you suspect your can has ingested a poisonous plant. Your veterinarian can help you identify common household plants that pose a danger to your pet.
• Remove tablecloths and other hanging temptations. Curious kittens love to explore, and a table top can be the perfect vantage point. A loose table cloth or runner can result in broken dished—and an injured kitten.
• Keep Fluffy inside. Cats are safest indoors, not out. Be sure to check screen doors and windows are secure to prevent your beloved pet from slipping out.

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The Indoor Cat
Myth: going outdoors is a requirement for your cat's happiness. You can easily satisfy the need to be outdoors by simply playing regularly with your pet. Cat play can manage her stalking instincts, stimulate her mind and provide exercise to keep her fit and heathy. Following are some tips for creating the perfect indoor environment for your feline friend:

Sun rooms or screened porches can offer a great way for your cats to experience the great outdoors. Window-mounted cat hammocks (or perch) can also bring the sights and sounds of nature to your cat's indoor habitat. An alternative to the perch is an enclosure that sits in a window fame. Be sure to secure your window screens to ensure fluffy doesn't make her way outside unnoticed.

Kitty condos range in many sizes and can range from floor to ceiling at their tallest. These provide more climbing, play and rest areas as well as create new vertical spaces which mimic trees and other outdoor elements.

Nothing beats playing and spending time wit your cat each day. Alternate Fluffy's toys and include exploratory items such as paper bags, cardboard boxes or even laundry baskets. These items will keep your cat entertained when home alone.

Remember, although your cat is indoors, don't forget to purchase a collar which clearly identifies you and your contact information.

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What Every Cat Owner should Have
Making fluffy feel at home isn’t difficult. A few key items and some advanced planning will help ensure your cat is comfortable, safe and challenged.

• Litter box and litter
• Cat dishes
• Grooming Tools
• Nail Clippers
• A Scratching Post
• A Cat Bed
• Toys (avoid string or rolls of yarn as a cat’s barbed tongue can make spitting these objects out difficult)

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