Ringworm is very common in both animals and humans. A common misconception is it is a colony of little tiny worms. Ringworm is actually a fungus that lives on dead tissue and is easily spread between species.
One symptom of ringworms is a lesion on the skin which looks like a rapidly growing circular patch of broken hair. The patch may look inflamed and may appear to have dandruff-like flakes on it. The most common areas where it can occur are face, ear tips, tails and paws.
If you see your animal experiencing any of these symptoms, take them to a vet. They will examine the hair under ultra-violet light. If your pet has ringworm, your vet will prescribe an anti-fungal ointment to apply daily, where it can be easily cured.
Humans need to take some precautions since ringworm highly infectious. Keep small children away from the infected animal and handle things with gloves. You should also keep your animals hair short while they are undergoing treatment.
You and your pets will be just fine if infected but you will experience some tender, itchy, dry patches of skin in circles. If you exhibit any of the symptoms go and see your doctor so as not to spread the fungus any further.
By Staff Writer Trish Harding
http://dallas-plano-richardson.fetchpetcare.com
Showing posts with label pet care. Show all posts
Showing posts with label pet care. Show all posts
Wednesday, July 4, 2012
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
Introducing New Pets to Your Home
Introducing new pets to your older pets can be nerve wracking on both you and your pets. Keep in mind your old pet may see the newcomer as a threat and will try to put it in its place, let this happen. Do not break up a scuffle between your pets unless there is risk of injury to either one or both of them. Sometimes they just need to work things out. Here are some guidelines to follow when introducing new animals into your home.
· Do not leave your new pet unattended while with your older pets. They will need to be supervised until you can guarantee they will tolerate each other. Keep them separated at night until you are sure they will play nice.
· Introduce your pets in a safe environment, preferably indoors where they can both be observed. If you are introducing a cat to a dog do not let the dog chase or corner the cat. Even though the dog is only trying to play, the cat will become terrified of this large creature chasing it and it may invoke a prey instinct in the dog.
· When bringing a cat home, put the cat down before introducing it to any other animals. Cat scratches and bites easily become infected.
· Make sure your new pet is comfortable in its new home before introducing it to any new friends. Confine the animal to its own area until it has become accustomed to the change in environment.
· Your pets should be given separate food, water and, if necessary, litter boxes until they have grown used to each other. Your old pet may feel threatened if the new pet is eating and drinking from HIS food or water bowl.
· Be extremely careful when introducing a dog or cat to a caged animal such as a rat, rabbit or bird. Do not open the cage and do not allow your pet to get to close. Smaller animals can become so terrified that they die from stress on the heart. Keep the cage well out of reach and keep an eye on it at all times.
· Do not try to force to animals together. This will stress them out and may result in them injuring either themselves, you or your old pet.
By Staff Writer Trish Harding
Libby Mitchell
General Manager
214-989-3639
nedallas@fetchpetcare.com
http://dallas-plano-richardson.fetchpetcare.com
Tuesday, May 8, 2012
Calming Your Dog
Being cooped up in a house during the chilly months can result on a bored, anxious and excited dog. Barking at every little noise, licking constantly, chewing and whining are all things that put both you and your dog on edge.
It is useful to have some general purpose techniques to calm your dog in a variety of situations.
Calm Yourself
Your dog can pick up on your emotions so if you are antsy, jittery or pacing your furry friend will also feel the tension.
Don’t yell and rant at your dog just sit down, take a deep breath and then deal with your dog in a calm manner. Take notice of how your posture is and portray a stern but calm aura.
Focus On Something Else
If your dog is barking at something (not dangerous), licking excessively or chewing you can try to focus his attention on something else. Get onto the floor and entertain him with his favorite toy or just talk to him as you pet him. Give him a treat or let him up onto the couch with you. Dogs can get just as stressed and bored as we can and sometimes need a break.
Engage In Play Acting
Send your dog some cues that other dogs would send him letting him know it is okay to relax.
· Yawn deeply and loudly several times with taking in large amounts of air. Try to appear as relaxed as possible.
· Curl downward in a motion similar to touching your toes. Do not stretch upward as you will make yourself appear larger sending an aggression signal to your dog.
By Staff Writer Trish Harding
It is useful to have some general purpose techniques to calm your dog in a variety of situations.
Calm Yourself
Your dog can pick up on your emotions so if you are antsy, jittery or pacing your furry friend will also feel the tension.
Don’t yell and rant at your dog just sit down, take a deep breath and then deal with your dog in a calm manner. Take notice of how your posture is and portray a stern but calm aura.
Focus On Something Else
If your dog is barking at something (not dangerous), licking excessively or chewing you can try to focus his attention on something else. Get onto the floor and entertain him with his favorite toy or just talk to him as you pet him. Give him a treat or let him up onto the couch with you. Dogs can get just as stressed and bored as we can and sometimes need a break.
Engage In Play Acting
Send your dog some cues that other dogs would send him letting him know it is okay to relax.
· Yawn deeply and loudly several times with taking in large amounts of air. Try to appear as relaxed as possible.
· Curl downward in a motion similar to touching your toes. Do not stretch upward as you will make yourself appear larger sending an aggression signal to your dog.
By Staff Writer Trish Harding
So You Want A Rat
Rats are very gentle and intelligent rodents that just love human companionship and are masterful escape artists. Being small but not too small they serve as a great starter pet for any young child or classroom. But, before you buy your new friend his permanent home, consider all the options out there and know the ups and downs of each habitat.
***When buying cages it is a good rule to buy the largest cage you can both afford and accommodate into your home.***
Glass aquariums are an affordable option but they are not a good first choice as the walls can be to high resulting in poor circulation and respiratory problems for the animal. Aquariums made for fish must be taller than average to have room for pumps, filters and heaters. Ammonia build up from urine can harm your rodents lungs if there is not good air circulation.
Reptile/small animal aquariums, glass aquariums made JUST for small animals, are a great second choice as the walls are proportionally smaller than an aquarium made for fish. The shorter walls allows the airs to flow and for your pet to breathe easier.
The best choice in a rodent home is an open cage with bars. The open bar design allows for complete air circulation. It also allows for more contact between you and your new pet because there is no glass wall. Just make sure that the bars are not spaced too far apart because your new pet can escape and your home is full of dangers.
By Staff Writer Trish Harding
***When buying cages it is a good rule to buy the largest cage you can both afford and accommodate into your home.***
Glass aquariums are an affordable option but they are not a good first choice as the walls can be to high resulting in poor circulation and respiratory problems for the animal. Aquariums made for fish must be taller than average to have room for pumps, filters and heaters. Ammonia build up from urine can harm your rodents lungs if there is not good air circulation.
Reptile/small animal aquariums, glass aquariums made JUST for small animals, are a great second choice as the walls are proportionally smaller than an aquarium made for fish. The shorter walls allows the airs to flow and for your pet to breathe easier.
The best choice in a rodent home is an open cage with bars. The open bar design allows for complete air circulation. It also allows for more contact between you and your new pet because there is no glass wall. Just make sure that the bars are not spaced too far apart because your new pet can escape and your home is full of dangers.
By Staff Writer Trish Harding
Pet Obesity
Up to 25% of pets in the Western world are obese or overweight. Obesity can have serious consequences for your pet. Here is a list of things to do to make sure that your pet is a healthy weight.
1. Find out if your pet is overweight/obese.
A cat from above should be trim and the waist should go in slightly. The abdomen should not be extended and there should be no fat deposits on the legs, stomach face and neck.
A dog will have a waist that tucks in from above and the stomach should point back towards to tail. There should be no fat deposits on the legs, shoulders, spine, face and neck.
2. Know the risks of obesity.
Obese dogs are at risk of many of the same ailments that people are. They can develop diabetes, hip dysplasia, arthritis and
Obese cats are can develop diabetes also. Excess weight can directly result in urinary tract disease and hepatic lipidosis, liver failure cause by brief stress. Because of the risk of liver failure you should contact your vet if your cat is obese as a sudden change in diet could be enough stress for the liver to fail.
3. Visit the veterinarian.
As with people, there could be a medical reason your pet is obese. Schedule an appointment with your vet so they can assess your pet for any health problems related to the obesity.
4. Look at your pets diet.
Animals that are obese need to follow a vets recommendation for weight loss but there are a few things you can do to ensure smooth sailing.
· Have only one person feed the pets so there are no mix ups and over feedings, because let’s face it, your pets aren’t going to let the food just sit there.
· Feed your pet in smaller more frequent meals throughout the day.
· Replace treats with pet friendly vegetable treats such as carrots, zucchinis or melons.
5. Get your pet plenty of exercise.
Be sure your pet gets plenty of exercise. Take your dog to a dog park or run around the house with a string for your cat. Either way both of you will be getting active.
By Staff Writer Trish Harding
1. Find out if your pet is overweight/obese.
A cat from above should be trim and the waist should go in slightly. The abdomen should not be extended and there should be no fat deposits on the legs, stomach face and neck.
A dog will have a waist that tucks in from above and the stomach should point back towards to tail. There should be no fat deposits on the legs, shoulders, spine, face and neck.
2. Know the risks of obesity.
Obese dogs are at risk of many of the same ailments that people are. They can develop diabetes, hip dysplasia, arthritis and
Obese cats are can develop diabetes also. Excess weight can directly result in urinary tract disease and hepatic lipidosis, liver failure cause by brief stress. Because of the risk of liver failure you should contact your vet if your cat is obese as a sudden change in diet could be enough stress for the liver to fail.
3. Visit the veterinarian.
As with people, there could be a medical reason your pet is obese. Schedule an appointment with your vet so they can assess your pet for any health problems related to the obesity.
4. Look at your pets diet.
Animals that are obese need to follow a vets recommendation for weight loss but there are a few things you can do to ensure smooth sailing.
· Have only one person feed the pets so there are no mix ups and over feedings, because let’s face it, your pets aren’t going to let the food just sit there.
· Feed your pet in smaller more frequent meals throughout the day.
· Replace treats with pet friendly vegetable treats such as carrots, zucchinis or melons.
5. Get your pet plenty of exercise.
Be sure your pet gets plenty of exercise. Take your dog to a dog park or run around the house with a string for your cat. Either way both of you will be getting active.
By Staff Writer Trish Harding
Always Read Pet Labels
With cats comes fleas, by the thousands. Fleas are a major problem for cat owners. These tiny creatures can cause some for you and your cat such as anemia, dermatitis and tapeworm. Flea control is often a necessary step in keeping you and your cat healthy.
There are many flea and tick treatments out there but never ever use a product labeled “For Dogs Only” on your cat or any animal other than a dog. Dogs and cats do not react the same way to the same insecticides at the same concentrations. As an example, look at permethrin.
Permethrin is in many “Dog Only” direct application flea and tick treatments. It comes in concentrations ranging from 45-60% permethrin. While that is a very acceptable level for a canine it would most certainly kill a feline. A cat suffering from permethrin exposure would display tremors, muscle tensing and seizures anywhere from an hour to 48 hours after the exposure.
If your feline receives medical attention the odds of recovery are very high. It is crucial that you take your cat to the vet and tell them you suspect permethrin.
Read ALL the labels on things before you give them to your pet. Not sure if it’s for your pet, call the vet.
By Staff Writer Trish Harding
Monday, April 9, 2012
Wet Vs. Dry Cat Food
Wet food may seem like just a treat for your cat but it is important to work it into the diet at least once a week. Cats in the wild do not usually drink large amounts of water as the water they do get is from their diet of fresh meat (70-80% water).
Your modern housecat does not get a chance to hunt down large pray and eat fresh meat daily so they may become dehydrated, if only slightly. Wet food is a great incentive for your cat to stay healthy and hydrated.
There is a common misconception that dry food helps to clean a cats teeth. It may help, only slightly, but seeing as cats don’t really chew their food it is simply a myth. Cats chew maybe once or twice and then swallow because their saliva does not contain enzymes that break down the food.
Dry food also has a lot of carbohydrates and cats are not as efficient at breaking those down as humans are so too much dry food in the diet can lead to stomach upset, weight gain and dehydration. Dry food is a necessity though and your cat’s diet should consist of 1 part wet food for 3 parts dry food.
So if your cat gets three meals a day, give them some wet food at the end of the day to round out their diet.
Your modern housecat does not get a chance to hunt down large pray and eat fresh meat daily so they may become dehydrated, if only slightly. Wet food is a great incentive for your cat to stay healthy and hydrated.
There is a common misconception that dry food helps to clean a cats teeth. It may help, only slightly, but seeing as cats don’t really chew their food it is simply a myth. Cats chew maybe once or twice and then swallow because their saliva does not contain enzymes that break down the food.
Dry food also has a lot of carbohydrates and cats are not as efficient at breaking those down as humans are so too much dry food in the diet can lead to stomach upset, weight gain and dehydration. Dry food is a necessity though and your cat’s diet should consist of 1 part wet food for 3 parts dry food.
So if your cat gets three meals a day, give them some wet food at the end of the day to round out their diet.
5 Fun Things to Do with Your Dog
The weather is changing. Here
are some ideas to get you and your wet nosed companion outside.
1. Head on over to your local lake and bring your dog’s favorite
toy, just make sure it can float. Your dog will stay cool and have a blast
retrieving his toy from the water. This does not apply to Bulldogs as many of
them cannot swim.
2. Call up some of your friends and plan a play date at your
local dog park. While you and your crew catch up your dogs can do the same.
Visit www.dogpark.com
to find your local dog park.
3. Throw on those rollerblades and allow your dog to pull you
along. This can also be done with a bicycle but steer clear of uneven and
cracked sidewalks as this can be a safety hazard.
4. Plan a day trip to a wooded area and have a picnic while your
dog sniffs around. Don’t forget to bring toys and food for your dog as well.
5. Go to an indoor agility track and show your dog how much fun
weaving, jumping, and teetering can be. For agility classes in Dallas, visit www.dallasdogsports.com or
www.dogcitytrainingcenter.com
No matter what activity you and your dog choose to do remember
to be safe and always keep an eye out for potential hazards to your pet and
yourself.
Sunday, April 8, 2012
Should You Hire a Pet Sitter for the Holidays
Pet Sitters are a much needed necessity if you have are leaving your dog or cat for the holidays. Pet sitters are an alternative to boarding and kenneling which allows home dog sitting, where the dogs stay in a comfortable environment, or the neighborhood kid down the street you don't know very well.
Though more and more vacation lodging includes both dog and cat hotels, it is less stressful on both the dog and their human if they can stay home instead of traveling around the world. In Dallas, dog walking can be a part of the pet care services which can be chosen as part of your vacation package with a professional pet sitter.
Regardless of whether you use a franchise service like Fetch! Pet Care which is located nationwide or an independent contractor, please make sure they have insurance and well as bonding all their staff. Pet Sitters are not all created equal. Many are members of NAPPS (National Association of Professional Pet Sitters) or Pet Sitters International. Some are associated with both vet and other pet services.
Home dog and cat sitting allows the animals to enjoy the holidays with someone who loves pets, takes care of your home, as well as takes the dog walking or plays with the cats on a daily basis. Many pet sitting services will also take care of reptiles, birds, rodents, and even the occasional tarantula. Don't leave your pet with a neighbor who may be too busy to check on them daily. Hire a professional pet sitter who is there for you 24/7 regardless of whether your flight makes it back on time or your car gets a flat.
And once the holidays are over and you and your pets have developed a report with your pet sitter, consider hiring them for dog walking or pet visits to keep your pet company while you work those long hours until your next vacation.
Libby Mitchell is the owner of Fetch! Pet Care of NE Dallas.
Though more and more vacation lodging includes both dog and cat hotels, it is less stressful on both the dog and their human if they can stay home instead of traveling around the world. In Dallas, dog walking can be a part of the pet care services which can be chosen as part of your vacation package with a professional pet sitter.
Regardless of whether you use a franchise service like Fetch! Pet Care which is located nationwide or an independent contractor, please make sure they have insurance and well as bonding all their staff. Pet Sitters are not all created equal. Many are members of NAPPS (National Association of Professional Pet Sitters) or Pet Sitters International. Some are associated with both vet and other pet services.
Home dog and cat sitting allows the animals to enjoy the holidays with someone who loves pets, takes care of your home, as well as takes the dog walking or plays with the cats on a daily basis. Many pet sitting services will also take care of reptiles, birds, rodents, and even the occasional tarantula. Don't leave your pet with a neighbor who may be too busy to check on them daily. Hire a professional pet sitter who is there for you 24/7 regardless of whether your flight makes it back on time or your car gets a flat.
And once the holidays are over and you and your pets have developed a report with your pet sitter, consider hiring them for dog walking or pet visits to keep your pet company while you work those long hours until your next vacation.
Libby Mitchell is the owner of Fetch! Pet Care of NE Dallas.
A Dog's Purpose
This was posted from one of my pet care networking sites and I wanted to pass it along.
A Dog's Purpose? (from a 6-year-old).
Being a veterinarian, I had been called to examine a ten-year-old Irish
Wolfhound named Belker. The dog's owners, Ron, his wife Lisa, and their
little boy Shane, were all very attached to Belker, and they were hoping for
a miracle.
I examined Belker and found he was dying of cancer. I told the family we
couldn't do anything for Belker, and offered to perform the euthanasia
procedure for the old dog in their home.
As we made arrangements, Ron and Lisa told me they thought it would be good for six-year-old Shane to observe the procedure.. They felt as though Shane might learn something from the experience.
The next day, I felt the familiar catch in my throat as Belker 'S family
surrounded him. Shane seemed so calm, petting the old dog for the last time,
that I wondered if he understood what was going on. Within a few minutes,
Belker slipped peacefully away.
The little boy seemed to accept Belker's transition without any difficulty
or confusion. We sat together for a while after Belker's Death, wondering
aloud about the sad fact that animal lives are shorter than human lives.
Shane, who had been listening quietly, piped up, ''I know why.''
Startled, we all turned to him. What came out of his mouth next stunned me.
I'd never heard a more comforting explanation. It has changed the way I try
and live.
He said, "People are born so that they can learn how to live a good life --
like loving everybody all the time and being nice, right?''
The Six-year-old continued,''Well, dogs already know how to do that, so they
don't have to stay as long.''
Live simply.
Love generously.
Care deeply.
Speak kindly.
Remember, if a dog was the teacher you would learn things like:
When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.
Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joyride.
Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure
Ecstasy.
Take naps..
Stretch before rising.
Run, romp, and play daily.
Thrive on attention and let people touch you.
Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.
On warm days, stop to lie on your back on the grass.
On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree.
When you're happy, dance around and wag your entire body.
Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.
Be loyal.
Never pretend to be something you're not.
If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.
When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by, and nuzzle them
gently.
ENJOY EVERY MOMENT OF EVERY DAY!
'Animals come into our lives as gifts from God, for companionship, to teach
us, and to heal us. They deserve our very best efforts in caring for them.'
Dr. Ihor Basko, DVMExcerptWe can learn so much...just from the daily lives of those around us.
A Dog's Purpose? (from a 6-year-old).
Being a veterinarian, I had been called to examine a ten-year-old Irish
Wolfhound named Belker. The dog's owners, Ron, his wife Lisa, and their
little boy Shane, were all very attached to Belker, and they were hoping for
a miracle.
I examined Belker and found he was dying of cancer. I told the family we
couldn't do anything for Belker, and offered to perform the euthanasia
procedure for the old dog in their home.
As we made arrangements, Ron and Lisa told me they thought it would be good for six-year-old Shane to observe the procedure.. They felt as though Shane might learn something from the experience.
The next day, I felt the familiar catch in my throat as Belker 'S family
surrounded him. Shane seemed so calm, petting the old dog for the last time,
that I wondered if he understood what was going on. Within a few minutes,
Belker slipped peacefully away.
The little boy seemed to accept Belker's transition without any difficulty
or confusion. We sat together for a while after Belker's Death, wondering
aloud about the sad fact that animal lives are shorter than human lives.
Shane, who had been listening quietly, piped up, ''I know why.''
Startled, we all turned to him. What came out of his mouth next stunned me.
I'd never heard a more comforting explanation. It has changed the way I try
and live.
He said, "People are born so that they can learn how to live a good life --
like loving everybody all the time and being nice, right?''
The Six-year-old continued,''Well, dogs already know how to do that, so they
don't have to stay as long.''
Live simply.
Love generously.
Care deeply.
Speak kindly.
Remember, if a dog was the teacher you would learn things like:
When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.
Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joyride.
Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure
Ecstasy.
Take naps..
Stretch before rising.
Run, romp, and play daily.
Thrive on attention and let people touch you.
Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.
On warm days, stop to lie on your back on the grass.
On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree.
When you're happy, dance around and wag your entire body.
Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.
Be loyal.
Never pretend to be something you're not.
If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.
When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by, and nuzzle them
gently.
ENJOY EVERY MOMENT OF EVERY DAY!
'Animals come into our lives as gifts from God, for companionship, to teach
us, and to heal us. They deserve our very best efforts in caring for them.'
Dr. Ihor Basko, DVMExcerptWe can learn so much...just from the daily lives of those around us.
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