Pet Companions

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New, pet, adopt, train, personality, baby, puppy, share, sibling

Pet Companions

Pet Companions

I just love them, those first `well baby' consultations. Parents have so many questions. One of the most common I hear is `when should we add to our new family? `Now, keep in mind I am a veterinarian and these parents are curious about bringing home another pet.

Cats and dogs are both social animals. It is an urban legend that cats are solitary creatures that prefer to be only children. Dogs and cats can both enjoy a pet buddy, of the same species or another. There is however, no guarantee that the addition will be welcomed with open paws. Since we can't ask our pets if they want a comrade, there are several questions you will need to honestly ask yourself before you increase the number of feet padding through your home.

1. Do you have the resources to care for another pet? There is no such thing as a free lunch, and there is definitely no such thing as a free pet. Food, medical care, and grooming are but some of the elements that need to be considered.

2. Do you have the time to devote to another dependent? We live very hectic lives. It is difficult enough to find time to take care of ourselves let alone a pet. Consider the time required to feed, groom, clean up after, play with and most importantly, love another life.

3. What is the personality of your resident pet? If you have a very timid pet, an elderly curmudgeon or a pet that was never socialized to other animals, a new creature full of energy and enthusiasm may not be what the doctor ordered.

4. If your dog prefers to chase small furry critters rather than play fetch with a ball, or if your cat is obsessed with cackling at birds perched outside its favorite window seat, introducing a small animal into the home may inadvertently stimulate the prey-predator instincts into overdrive. You can just imagine the disasters that could occur unless you exercise very close supervision.

With all of this being said, it is not impossible to increase the size of your pet family even if all the components don't seem to be just perfect. It will take time, patience and persistence. Cats can happily live with dogs. I know a dog whose best friend is a rabbit. Younger pets can give a lift to the spirits of a senior pet or person. Bringing home an older animal is often a marvelous alternative to a youngster. They are usually calmer and less demanding. Likewise, adopting rescue pets give them a new `leash on life.

One of the most important things to remember when you get a pet, it is for life, their life, so choose wisely.

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Daily Pet News


Know Your Dog's Patterns
It has long been recognized that there are certain patterns in the causes of death of our dogs. Depending on age, sex, and breed, there are common causes that are understood by veterinarians. For example, infection and congenital diseases are more likely to prove fatal to puppies, while cancer becomes more and more common as dogs age. Doctors can use this information when looking for signs and symptoms in our dogs. Based on tendencies, your veterinarian can recommend the appropriate diet, examination and vaccine schedule, and exercise program.

Horses Gentle Giants
Horses can be fragile beings. Because they are designed to be extremely efficient, one small biomechanical dysfunction can lead to major problems. Pain, of course is not far behind. In order to manage the horse, pain and anti-inflammatory drugs may be needed in conjunction with physical therapy or chiropractic. A veterinarian can devise a treatment plan that will optimally benefit the horse.

That Bites! Horses and Insect Bites
A study suggests that the regular application of a topical ointment may provide some relief to horses suffering from insect bite hypersensitivity, or IBH. IBH is an allergic reaction that many horses have to insect bites. Symptoms include, itchiness, patches of hair loss, and calluses. Horses may scratch or rub itchy areas and causes oozing sores.

Your Dog Likes Me More
An interesting new study reveals that dogs are more likely to approach men than women. Neurotic owners and dogs seem to bond even more, sensing that they need each other. Calm and non-aggressive people also attract dogs much more than loud individuals. While researchers are uncertain why, they guess that it may be related to sex associated roles that have been observed in wolves.

Diabetes in Pets
Diabetes in cats and dogs is becoming more and more common. As obesity rises as does diabetes and heart disease. Offering good nutritious food and keeping treats to a minimum are essential to keeping pets healthy

Dogs and Autisim
Dogs are wonderful in many ways, but can they help families with autistic children? First off, they have a calming effect on both child and parent. They can help in establishing routines and can offer a buffer when dealing with the stresses of daily routines. And the bond between child and dog can help to bring focus to a sometimes chaotic environment.

Training Techniques
Training and interacting with your dog can be challenging without the right technique. That’s why experts have been studying dogs for years. Research has taught us that our canine companions respond much better to positive reinforcement and immediate correction using calm, deliberate movements. We should not dominate and intimidate our pets, but rather coach them towards intended behavior.

West Nile Risks
West Nile Virus, is just one of the many diseases carried by those pesky mosquitoes. So when walking your dog, avoid swamplands or areas with standing water. These are prime locations for the blood suckers. And just in case, be sure that your pet is up to date on its vaccinations. If you suspect your companion is suffering from any infectious disease, immediate medical intervention may safe its life.

Traveling With Your Pet
More than half of pet owners travel with their pets, and it’s important to keep their safety in mind when traveling. A common mistake is that most of us will let our pets roam around the car and some will even hold a pet while driving. This poses a very serious danger to all passengers, human or other. The impact of a 35 mile per hour car accident can be fatal to a non-secured pet; and can also turn it into a dangerous projectile. Crating or other restrictive methods will save lives.

Get With Your Vet
Teaming up with your veterinarian is important for your pet’s healthcare. Because you are around your companion around the clock, information about its eating habits, behavior, sleep patterns, and bathroom frequency need to be communicated to your veterinarian. Then your veterinarian can make informed decisions to benefit your pet.