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Just this past October there was an outbreak in the Detroit area of a disease that claimed the lives of more than a dozen dogs. The cause of this tragic loss is a bacterium known as Leptospira. It is spread primarily through contact with the victim’s urine. Without prompt, very rigorous treatment, within days due to multiple organ failure, most of those infected succumb. Sadly, if these pets had been properly immunized not one would have gotten ill, let alone died.
Through the years I have come across numerous individuals wanting to set themselves apart from the rest of the world. There are a variety of ways to accomplish distinguishing one’s self. Some have done it via their education. Others have taken on challenging projects. Then there are those who have become political leaders. There are numerous other venues people have chosen to express their individuality.
Cats and dogs, much like children, have a natural instinct to explore. Strange as it may seem, both are much more likely to proceed when the endeavor is risky and unsafe. Unfortunately, such endeavors often bring undesired outcomes. Not a week goes by that I don’t find myself helping at least one pet owner care for a furry family member shortly after they have consumed something their lips should never have touched.
Are you a pet owner? Better said, are you human, given the responsibility by your pet, of meeting their every need? Let me start by saying, it is okay to truly love a pet! If you do, at some point you will go through a very rough period when that creature leaves your care. This article may lead you to a resource to help you through that dark and difficult time.
What an awesome time of year! Decorations that spice up the holidays have been everywhere. Have you adorned your home with beautiful and delightful strings of beads, knickknacks, and other items that are particularly appealing to pets? Let’s not forget the many sights, sounds, exciting smells, and new hiding places that make pets jump for joy! I have some simple recommendations that will help keep your furry family members safe and out of trouble during the holidays and throughout the year.
What is a pet advocate? No single word or phrase accurately quantifies or qualifies such a vast concept, wonderful feeling, and incredible responsibility.
Throughout the year, those of us who have pets that allow us to live with them, periodically go through the routine of needing to make arrangements for someone to oversee their activities while we are away.
I am writing this article to inform pet owners about why, regardless of what the law requires, they should have their pet immunized. It is not my intention to frighten anyone nor to cause unnecessary anxiety. Rather, I want to inform pet owners about a disease that, although is potentially fatal, is easily prevented via timely routine immunizations. What disease am I referring to? Rabies!
This is the first of a two part series addressing the enrichment of the human-animal bond. Presently I’ll discus canine companion issues. Next month I will look at how felines interact with their caregivers.
This is part two of a series addressing the wonder and splendor of the human-animal bond as it pertains to interacting with cats and dogs. In the last issue I discussed many common canine concerns. In this article I’ll characterize the special needs felines have, how they impact our lives, and what we, as caregivers can do to co-exist in a safe and amicable manner.
For those of you who have wondered, cats are not small dogs. They have their own set of rules that we, as their providers, must live by! If you don’t believe me, just ask any feline.
