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Vizsla Wins Crufts Best in Show

2010-03-18T15:44:00.002-07:00

The largest and oldest dog show in the world today, Crufts, awarded best in show for 2010 to a Hungarian Vizsla. A very prestigious reward for a very handsome dog!

Yogi Does Better This Year

Ash Chi/Aust Ch Hungergunn Bear It'n Mind, whose pet name is Yogi, took best in show at this year's Crufts dog show in the UK. Last year Yogi was outdone by a Sealyham Terrier from the United States named Charmin. This year after winning the Gundog Group, he advanced into the highly competitive Best in Show category and came out the winner. He competed against 6 other group winners which included a Cardigan Welsh Corgi, Pharoah Hound, Maltese Terrier, Scottish Terrier, an Akita and a Rottweiler.

This is not only the first for this highly decorated dog, but also the first time a Vizsla has taken Best in Show in the history of the Crufts dog show. The award has been in existence for 79 years and there are 41 breeds that hold this honorable title. Cocker Spaniels hold the most Best in Show trophies at Crufts, followed by the Welsh Terrier and the Irish Terrier both of whom have won 4 times. Yogi is the first in his breed ever; therefore his owners have indeed earned bragging rights!

Yogi is currently co-owned by Naomi Cragg and Kathryn Armstrong from Carlisle, Cumbria. His handler at the Crufts dog show was John Thirlwell.

Upon winning the Best in Show title, John Thirlwell claimed:

"It hasn't sunk in, it is just so surreal. Yogi is seven now and has had a fantastic year. We are just absolutely delighted!"

The Kennel Club Communications Director, Caroline Kisko, said:

"We give our congratulations to Naomi, Kathryn and Yogi who has taken the prestigious Best in Show Award."

So What is Crufts?

The Crufts dog show is named for its founder, Charles Crufts, who was destined to be a jeweler by trade and follow in his family's business. However, he surprised his family by dropping out of college in 1878 and joined a new venture selling dog cakes. From there he was invited to Paris for the Paris exposition and brought the first Crufts dog show to London in 1891.

Today, entries come from many different countries and are praised for being the best in their breed on many occasions.

Yogi has the most show wins in the history of dog shows, but none as important as Best of Show.

A Bit About the Vizsla

The Vizsla is a medium-sized dog with a rather short coat. Originally the breed came from Hungary. It wasn't until the 1950's, however, that they started to appear in the United States of America. The ancestors of the breed were not only hunters, but they were also considered close companions for a tribe that settled in what is now known as Hungary, called the Magyar horde. They have since developed into the beautiful strong breed that they are today.

Originally bred as a hunting dog, the Vizsla breed almost became extinct after World War I and World War II. These dogs are revered for their superior nose and sense of smell, as well as their excellent hunting ability and quickly became accustomed to the Hungarian climate. They were frequently used to hunt game, rabbits and waterfowl.

Revered in the show ring as well as on the hunting fields, this medium sized dog is a lively and affectionate breed that loves his people. They are quite easy to train and are well suited for active families. Shedding is there as it is with all dogs, but the Vizsla's short wiry hair is an easy cleanup with minimal daily maintenance.

The AKC recognized the Vizsla in 1960 as part of the Sporting Group. Their average size is 21 to 24 inches of power and loyalty, which adds up to a great family companion and an extremely good hunting dog.

Photo Credit: Opalset

Dog Bite Insurance

2010-03-17T21:47:00.006-07:00

There is currently a push in many areas to institute compulsory dog bite insurance for pet owners. The United Kingdom, one of the toughest countries on vicious dogs, is in the process of drafting such legislation. There are a lot of different ideas being tossed around such as limiting the requirement to owners who possess status dogs, these are dogs known for having an intimidating presence. Of course, when the final laws are passed there is a possibility that all dog owners will be required to carry some kind of third party dog bite insurance.

Dog Bite Statistics

It is estimated that there are 4.7 million dog bites in the United States every year. Of that number, around 800,000 require immediate medical attention. Cumulative emergency room reports estimate that there are about 1,087 people seen for dog bite related injuries every day. This is a large number of cases on the surface.

Dog Bite Insurance Pros

As you can see from the above statistics, there are some very valid reasons for wanting dog owners to carry some kind of liability dog bite insurance. If you were an innocent bystander injured by your neighbor's dog it should be the dog owner who bears the burden of your medical expenses and dog bite insurance would definitely be a plus in this situation.

The real target of dog bite insurance laws however are those who are engaged in illegal activities with their dogs, such as with dog fighting rings. In the UK, for instance there are a growing number of gangs who are using formidable dogs as weapons as well as intimidators. The feeling is that increased legislation will give police and the courts more recourse, and also allow the tracking of such offensive individuals.

Dog Bite Insurance Cons

While it sounds like a solid solution to a fast growing problem, there are some flaws in this particular concept. For starters, most homeowners already have insurance in place that covers dog bite incidents on their property and as over 50% of dog bites occur on the owner's property it seems a bit redundant to insist that the property owners carry two forms of insurance for one possible situation. Add to that the fact that the overwhelming majority of bites are from a family or a friend's pet and you will quickly begin to see that there is not really a good argument for having every dog owner carry dog bite insurance since bites from strange and unfamiliar dogs are fairly rare.

Requiring all owners to carry dog bite insurance may also unfairly punish owners of breeds not known for aggressive tendencies as well as for the ones whose bites do not break through a person's skin nor damage a person in any way physically. This, in effect, makes all owners share the burden of what a few breeds are responsible for.

The idea that those engaged in illegal activity will follow the law when it comes to dog bite insurance is rather a contradiction in terms. If an individual is fighting dogs or using them in any other illegal activity, insurance compliance would be extremely low on their list of pet ownership priorities.

Conclusion

There are good and bad concepts when it comes to dog bite insurance. On the one hand, people may feel more confident that they will not wind up with crippling medical expenses because of another person's irresponsible activities. Nevertheless, there are still some major concerns to be addressed before this type of legislation can do the most good without punishing the wrong people.

Photo Credit: OakleyOriginals

Asthma in Cats

2010-03-15T15:16:00.002-07:00

Most cat owners are not aware that their precious cats can suffer from asthma because it is regarded as a human-only illness. This is not true and many cats suffer from asthma, although it is sometimes mistaken for an upper respiratory infection or a cold. Here are some tips on helping you identify asthma in your cat.

Signs and Symptoms

Asthma affects the lower airways of a cat's lungs. It prohibits adequate air exchange and subsequently manifests itself with several symptoms. Shortness of breath upon brief periods of activity, coughing, wheezing and overall lethargy is a common symptom. Asthma may be cyclic or continuous. It may occur once or rarely with acute attacks or be prolonged requiring constant monitoring and medication indicating a chronic condition.

Diagnosis

If your cat manifests these symptoms, your vet should be consulted and tests need to be done. Commonly a chest x-ray and full examination ensue. Chest x-rays can help in the diagnosis of asthma, heart conditions, and pneumonia. Asthma causes over-inflation of the lungs due to the inability to express the air on their own. It will also show inflammation of the tissue surrounding the lung.

Blood tests may also be performed, including a CBC. High white blood cell counts indicate infection or inflammation due to allergies. During that time, testing for heartworms or other parasites can also be done. Bacterial infections, lungworms, and heartworms can cause similar symptoms and therefore a wash may be performed to obtain tissue from the lungs.

Treatment Options

Treatment for feline asthma usually consists of several therapies. Oxygen and injectable medication may be administered to provide immediate relief. This attempt to stabilize the patient will allow further long-term treatments to be prescribed. Theophylline may be given by inhalers that were designed to fit over a cats face through a mask to relieve the swelling. Anti-inflammatory drugs with steroidal properties are also used. They will reduce swelling rapidly and reduce inflammation in and around the airways. If allergies are involved, steroidal medication will also slow down the immune system to counteract the allergens. Careful monitoring is required for patients receiving these drugs.

Bronchodilators can be administered through inhalers as well. They will dilate the bronchi and allow freer passage of air.

Prognosis

Some cats may have one isolated incidence of asthma and not have another ever again. Others may have a chronic disease and require ongoing medication and treatment. Initial onsets do not necessarily indicate a chronic condition and may be a onetime occurrence caused by external stimuli, parasites, or other invaders.

Prevention

There are preventive steps that can be taken for these patients. Obesity can impair function and the condition may be relieved by weight loss. Cigarette smoke can exacerbate symptoms as well as odors for litter, perfume, or household chemicals. The simple prevention is to avoid obesity, don't smoke around your asthmatic cat, and limit exposure to other odors. Household cleaners may have to be changed to a natural cleaner rather than the one you are using.

Although asthma is a serious condition and can be life threatening, factors that complicate the condition can be avoided. Most acute episodes can be treated successfully and chronic conditions can be treated so the cat has a good quality of life. The most important step is close monitoring by your veterinarian. Subtle changes can be identified and dealt with immediately and your cat can be happier and healthier.

To learn more about how asthma affects cats, visit PetWellBeing's wiki page.

Photo Credit: Maggiejumps

Financial Assistance Programs For Pet Owners

2010-03-11T08:00:00.000-08:00

Each year thousands of pets are neglected and abused, winding up in a variety of different shelter programs around the country. While many of these owners deliberately abuse their pets, just as many have problems taking care of them, through no fault of their own. This can be because of a loss of their jobs, or they themselves are under some other kind of financial burden, or even just getting older and not being able to care for their beloved four legged friends.

What a lot of people in these situations don't realize is that there are actually an abundance of different programs available to help them take care of their pets, and many are just a phone call away. For example, there are many programs sponsored by the ASPCA that can help with the financial burden of neutering or spaying your cat or dog. Some have a yearly time set aside where you can bring your pet in to a place set up like a clinic, where for a nominal fee, just $10 in most cases, you can have your cat or dog spayed or neutered. In other areas, there are also vouchers that will reduce the price of getting your cat or dog fixed at a local clinic or animal hospital. This can, in some cases, reduce these costs by nearly half.

There are also many different programs that will provide you with pet food on a regular and timely basis. These programs are in place because it is much cheaper to help you than it is to have your pet at a shelter. They also understand how traumatic it can be for an owner to have to give up a pet, and try just about anything they can to prevent this from happening in the first place.

Here are just a few of the agencies you can contact for assistance:

The Pet Fund, and the United Animal Nations LifeLine Fund are two organizations that will help you with the expensive costs of having surgery, or medical treatments for your cat or dog, as well as help with the costs of getting neuter or spay surgery, and even sometimes with just routine vaccinations and other veterinary care. Other organizations that also help in this area are the Brown Dog Foundation, the Feline Veterinary Emergency Assistance Program, and Feline Outreach.

If your pet has some kind of cancer, or chronic disease, there are also agencies that can help with the expense of taking care of these special needs pets. There is the Diabetic Pets Fund, The Mosby Foundation, the Magic Bullet Fund, God's Creatures Ministry Veterinary Charity and many others.

Another great resource is IMOM, In Memory of Magic, an organization that helps fight for the lives of companion cats and dogs who are at risk of euthanized simply due to the fact that their caretakers are financially strained.

Cats in Crisis is another pet caring group that provides assistance to cat owners to help them pay for chronic or emergency medical care for the cats by way of financial and fundraising assistance.

You don't have to give up your cat or dog, or abandon them because they are sick, injured, need vaccinations, or even food. There are also many different programs that will help the elderly take care of their pets, walking their dogs, taking them in for routine checkups, as well as many others.

Don't be too proud to contact one of these agencies and ask for help, it is just plain stupid not too, with so many organizations that are available to help you and your cat or dog. If you are not sure where to start, one internet search can give you a lot of providers, or even just contacting your local Humane Society or ASPCA where you live can be a good start.

Photo Credit: Ollie Crafoord

Cats And Dogs Detecting Serious Illnesses In Humans

2010-03-10T10:00:00.001-08:00

Animals have a sixth sense. They know when there is danger, illness or even impending death. Dogs have a much more highly developed sense of smell than people do with 220 million times more ability to sense certain smells. In some cases, their nose can even detect cancer. Cats, also known for detecting diseases mysteriously, may also use their noses. However, sometimes, no explanation exists for the way some animals know about disease.

Sniffing Dogs
If sniffing is an art, then some dogs are indeed sniffing artists. In a report in the September 15, 2001 issue of the Lancet, a well-known medical journal which was started in 1823, an article on cancer sniffing dogs notes a story about one lucky master and her persistent dog.

Even though the woman with the sniffing dog knew she had a mole on her leg, she ignored it and was not the least bit concerned. That is until her relentless dog, half Doberman, half Border collie, refused to allow that behavior. The dog not only constantly sniffed at her mole, he even tried to bite it off once!

After many sniffs, nips and warnings from her furry friend, the woman decided to have a doctor look at it. After all, if Fido was concerned, maybe there was something there that she should be a concerned about too. The doctor confirmed her dog's diagnosis. This was no ordinary mole, but a malignant melanoma 1.86 mm thick. The doctors removed it. Her dog quit sniffing and everyone lived happily ever after.

This isn't the first and only case of animals finding cancer, nor will it be the last. In fact, because of that story, Dr. Cognetta and expert dog trainer, Duane Pickel, teamed to see if a trained dog could detect cancer. They used a bomb-detecting dog, George, a standard Schnauzer, to be the first trained cancer sniffer. He identified cancer on six out of seven skin cancer patients.

Caring Cats

Cat's have an uncanny ability to know illness and disease as well. Almost everyone has heard of Oscar the hospice cat. The Steere House Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Providence, R.I. didn't adopt Oscar to identify or comfort the dying patients; it just turned out that way. Oscar makes his rounds and regardless of the doctor's predictions, knows enough to snuggle with the patient in the last hour or two of life. His predictions are early enough that the staff has time to contact the family.

Some people believe that Oscar's ability also stems from his sense of smell. However, how does he know to comfort the patient in their last hours? Animals, particularly cats and dogs, often seem like they are angels sent to protect. Judy Danchura believes this is true.

Ms. Danchura found a stray outside her home and decided that she would give it a plate of food. However, that one kind act led to an abrupt awakening at 3 a.m. when the cat howled loudly outside her door. She let it in, readied the home with a litter box and hoped to get a good night sleep now that the cat was inside the house.

But Sumo, the stray's new name, wanted more. He climbed into her bed and stepped onto her body. As he stepped on her breast, she noted there was unusual pain and realized she had a problem. After a doctor's visit and many tests, it seems her furry angel alerted her of breast cancer. The early alert improved her chances of survival to 95 percent. Did Sumo appear at Danchura's home on a mission? Or, was the cat's arrival simply a fortunate turn of events? No one will ever know for sure. What they do know is that Sumo now has a permanent home with a grateful owner.

Photo Credit: CarulMare

How to Spot Common Dog Ailments

2010-03-09T10:23:00.002-08:00

After purchasing a dog and getting it vaccinated, owners may think that their dog is protected against all future health issues. Unfortunately, this is not true. Even careful pet owners can have dogs that get sick or suffer from common diseases. It is vital that dog owners understand how to detect and treat these conditions.

Even Common Health Problems in Dogs Which are Prevented by Vaccines Have Limits

It is important to understand that vaccines go only so far in protecting dogs against diseases. The right shots or medications can protect dogs against parvovirus or heartworms but they can have expiration dates. Dog owners need to keep up to date on vaccinations and make sure they take their dogs back to the vet before protection expires. Even then, there are many common health problems in dogs which are not covered by routine vaccinations.

Parasites can Cause Common Diseases in Dogs

Fleas commonly plague dogs during the summer months or any time of the year when the weather is warm enough to permit fleas to thrive (they can also bite dog owners as well). They are more than a nuisance. Fleas can give dogs potentially deadly diseases as they pass on tapeworms. They can also cause dogs to scratch themselves so strongly that they suffer from hair loss. Some dogs are even highly allergic to fleas. It is better to get rid of them and not have the dog - or the dog owner - suffer from itching, sores and bothersome bites.

Common Parasites Which can Be Deadly to Dogs

There are also more dangerous parasites and insects, ones that can cause common- and potentially fatal illnesses- in canines. These include various types of worms, including hookworms, tapeworms and heartworms. While early symptoms may not be noticed or cause mild problems, they can be deadly for dogs if left untreated. Symptoms of heartworms include coughing, weakness and general tiredness. A blood test can detect heartworms. Prevention is the best action, giving dogs medications to prevent various types of worms.

Common Health Problems in Dogs Include Skin Diseases

There are a host of skin diseases in dogs, ranging from fungus infections to mange to bacterial conditions. It may often require a skilled veterinarian to determine the exact cause and treatment of canine skin diseases. Just like people, dogs can suffer from allergies that affect their skin. They can even be allergic to food or plant pollen - just like people! Once a dog starts suffering from itchy skin, it may scratch itself so much that the skin is broken and bacteria enters, allowing a bacterial infection to take hold.

Without Proper Oral Hygiene and Care, Dogs Frequently Have Dental Problems

Dogs and dental care? While this may seem like an odd combination, owners of canines should not assume that their pets' teeth will automatically stay healthy. Plaque and cavities cause common health problems in dogs, particularly if dogs aren't given routine check-ups to make sure their teeth are in good shape. Veterinarians can recommend safe treats and bones which can help prevent plaque build-up.

Dog owners should check their dogs' gums to make sure they are not inflamed and also make sure that teeth don't show signs of decay or plaque. Some owners brush their dogs' teeth while others use a soft cloth to wipe off excess material on the teeth. Without proper care, tooth infections can arise.

Stay on Top of Other Common Canine Health Problems and Consider Buying Pet Health Insurance

Vigilant owners should also be on the lookout for ear problems, including scratching and shaking of the head (this can be a sign of ear mites). Any dog which can't hold down food and vomits should be watched for bloat, a potentially deadly condition. Err on the side of safety and call a vet if there is concern.

Photo Credit: Dan Harrelson

War Dogs: Heroes Throughout History

2010-03-04T10:00:00.004-08:00

Dogs have served alongside men in war throughout the history of the world. They were used by Native Americans, Egyptians, Persians and the Romans. The Romans used a breed of mastiffs, clothing them in coats of chain mail and protecting them with heavily spiked collars before sending them into battle.

War dogs were so valuable that, in the middle ages, breeding war dogs was actually used on a barter and trade scale.

Dogs in Wars

The Conquistadors used armored dogs that were specifically trained to kill. Dogs were used by the British in their attacks against the Irish, who in turn used their Irish Wolfhounds to attack the mounted knights. Many times a pair of wolfhounds would drag an armored knight right off his horse. In the Seven Years' war, dogs were used as messengers and used to protect the naval bases in France until the late 1700s.

During World War I and World War II, the dog again proved itself in combat. Many Europeans had dogs that were trained to pull small carts and the armies quickly put these animals to good use. They pulled cannons and supplies to the front lines, and pulled wagons of wounded soldiers. They were also trained to go from one handler to another, quietly and quickly carrying vital messages. Some dogs were also trained to detect mines.

During the Vietnam War roughly 4,000 war dogs were deployed as sentries, to bark or growl and alert their handlers to intruders. It was estimated that the war dogs saved over 10,000 American lives. The US withdrew its ground combat forces from South Vietnam in 1973 and the several thousand remaining war dogs were crated.

Sadly US military officials decided to classify these war dogs as equipment and left them all behind. They were ultimately either given to the South Vietnam Army or they were euthanized after every war dog unit was meticulously and tactically disabled.

Today's War Dogs

Today's war dog is an entirely different breed of animal that is quite highly trained in mine and bomb detection, tracking, and search and rescue missions as well as sentry duties. One of the more recent war dog stories in the news is that of Teo, a service dog in the British Army, who was recently awarded the Dickin Medal for his brave and loyal service in the Afghanistan war.

Over 1600 service dogs served in the United States Air Force during the 1970s. Today, the number is closer to 500 due to cutbacks in personnel.

In a testament as to how deeply these brave dogs have touched the hearts of the men they have served, laws were passed which allowed military dogs to be adopted upon their military retirement. The first war dog to be adopted to a new home was Lex, whose handler was sadly killed in the Iraq war.

War Dog Breeds

War dogs come in a variety of breeds, from the large mastiff of Roman days to the Irish Wolfhound and the German Sheppard. Of all the duties that these dogs have had over the years during times of war, their greatest service has always been that of both mascot and friend. Whether it is a mutt adopted by the unit or one of the service dogs working with them, these animals not only save lives, but they also lift spirits as well.

If you wish to honor a war dog, or give support to any of the many dogs giving who lost their lives in battle, there are many ways you can choose to help. There are many online sites that will accept donations.

Such donations will go, not only to supporting the dogs in combat, but also to providing for their long-term care once they have returned home.

For more information, it is recommend that you visit the website of The United States War Dogs Association.

Photo Credit:Beverly & Pack

Cats More Likely To Be Owned By College Graduates in the UK than Dogs

2010-03-03T10:00:00.000-08:00

Cat owners can now rejoice! There has been a recent scientific survey done at the University of Bristol on the study between cats, dogs, and their owners. The study was conducted by phone surveys of nearly 3,000 homes, the census from 2001 and compiling the most current statistics of the sizes of households in the UK. Cats and dogs are the two most favorite of pets owned in the UK.

Cat Owners Are Smarter than Dog Owners

Okay not really, though the new study did show that those who hold a degree are more likely to own a cat than a dog. Dr. Jane Murray of Bristol University led the survey and she says college graduates prefer cats, because "cats require less time per day than dogs." People who are college educated tend to work more hours in the office and their commute times are longer as well, which can be hard when they need to rush home after work to let their dog out.

Cats do not have to be walked several times a day like dogs do as they have a litter box. You can get away with filling a cat's bowl once a day as they eat whenever they feel like it and tend not to ravish all food in their sight. Also whilst cats like people, they tend to like themselves a little bit more, so they are just fine with being home by themselves during the day.

Age, Size and Location Play a Factor - Somewhat

Study questioners inquired about the participants' location and family size. It's not surprising that most cat owners are female. The survey also revealed that in addition to holding a college degree, most cat owners were female under the age of 65 years. There goes the "old cat lady" myth!

The study also revealed that cats and their owners are more likely to live in a rural, semi-urban area and/or with a garden. On the contrary, however, many who are dog owners also tend to live in rural areas or have homes with gardens for their dogs to run around and play in.

Size of a household also plays a significant role in the cat vs. dog controversy; the bigger the family, the higher the chances of dog ownership is increased. Dogs also tend to be least likely to be in homes where there are young children under the age of 11 years.

Cats Are Better Suited for Busy Individuals

Dr. Jane Murray believes that one of the main reasons for cats gaining in popularity is the result of the increase of population in the UK. She states there are similarities with dog and cat owners in that both set of owners have households with gardens or live in rural areas. Yet there are some very distinct differences, the main difference being the education level between cat owners and dog owners.

It is not simply a matter of a household's income level nor is it a matter of higher intelligence. There are details and statistics in the recent study that does not offer clear answers at the present. But the general consensus is that for college educated pet lovers, cats offer the perfect temperament and low maintenance care to fit in with their busy lifestyles.

Pet Numbers

The UK Cat population was around 8 million in 2009. Currently there are 35-40 different breeds of cats that are recognized by the UK's Feline Advisory Bureau.

In 2008, the most popular cats were:
1. Bengal
2. British Short Hair
3. Burmese
4. Manx
5. Siamese

The UK dog population was around 8 million in 2009, with 209 breeds of dog being recognized by UK's Kennel Club.

In 2008, the most popular dogs were:
1. Labrador
2. Border Collie
3. Jack Russell Terrier
4. Yorkshire Terrier
5. German Shepherd

Photo Credit: ManuelDiLuna

Animals in Super Bowl Ads

2010-03-01T13:25:00.003-08:00

Just about everyone loves animals and what better use of animals than in television commercials and print advertisements. This past Super Bowl millions anticipated the famous Super Bowls Ads. The Super Bowl most certainly did not disappoint and gave us hilarious commercials for quite a few big name companies. There were 9 commercials in total that featured animals in rather amusing scenarios.

Safety First

Pet lovers and activists will be pleased to hear that "No Animals Were Harmed" in all 9 of these television commercials. The companies and the Super Bowl should be applauded in their dedication to ensure the safety of all animals used in filming. Before, during and after shooting, the American Humane Association (AHA) was there to monitor all treatment of all the animals. The American Humane Association was founded in 1877 and has over a hundred years of experience in dedicating its services to the welfare of animals and children.

Since 1940, the American Humane Association has been responsible for monitoring the welfare of animals during production of film and television. The AHA is the organization that has registered the trademark term "no animals were harmed".

Karen Rosa who is the vice-president of the American Humane Association's Film & TV Unit located in Los Angles stated, "The fact that so many advertisers are calling on our services shows that across our society, there is recognition of the importance of the human-animal bond and the safety of animals."

The AHA highly skilled specialists, Certified Animal Safety Representatives, were in charge of watching over the production of ads for the Coca-Cola, Budweiser and Volkswagen companies. Great news is that most networks will not air any commercials until they are given a sign-off letter from the AHA!

Animals Are Funny

There were many good adverts this year using several different types of animals. These animals included beavers, dogs, chickens, frogs, snakes, Clydesdales horses, hyena, as well as a bull, a Capuchin monkey, a leopard, and a cockatoo parrot. These commercials ranged from cute and cuddly to endearing and hilarious.

One such commercial was the Doritos advertisement. Doritos featured a commercial in which a man is sitting on a park bench, enjoying a bag of Doritos. A dog comes up wearing a barking collar and gives the man his puppy eyes, begging for a chip. The man tells the dog, that unless the dog speaks, the dog cannot have a chip. Well the dog, had an answer for that. Next you see the dog standing in the background behind the man and the dog is removing his barking collar. The dog sneaks up behind the man and snaps the collar around his neck. When the dog barks the man is issued a shock and drops the bag of Doritos on the ground. This allows the dog to eat the spilled chips, leaving the man laying in the fetal position. Dogs are indeed very smart!

Another favorite from this year featured Clydesdale horses and a bull. The commercial starts with a calf and a young horse. These two animals become friends because the only thing that separates them is a fence between their two corrals. As young friends they race each other back and forth between the fences. Fast forward to 3 years, you see a stately carriage being pulled by magnificent Clydesdale's groomed to perfection, the camera pans to an adult bull. As the carriage draws closer to the fence, where the bull is located, the two eye each in recognition. The bull then begins running and eventually breaks through the gate to running along with his old friend.

These are just 2 commercials out of the 9 Superbowl ads that featured animals this year. Feel free to search online and see the rest of 2010 Super Bowl Ads featuring animals. Rest assured that "no animals were harmed."

Photo Credit: Mike Licht, NotionsCapital.com

New Tallest Dog Announced by Guinness World Records

2010-02-24T14:26:00.002-08:00

Great Danes have been known for their superior height and stature. So much so that the last two dogs to have earned the title of World's Tallest Dog by Guinness World Records were, in fact, Great Danes.

Therefore, it should come as no surprise to learn that recently Guinness World Records again awarded a Great Dane the title of World's Tallest Dog.

Giant George

The newest addition to the Great Dane hall of fame is a four year old, Blue Great Dane, named George from Tucson, Arizona. Since there was some initial controversy surrounding George's height, officials from Guinness World Records decided to send a special adjudicator to officially measure George's height in person.

The adjudicator measured George to be 43 inches tall (109 cm) from his paw to his shoulder, and 7 feet and 3 inches (2.2 m) from the top of his nose right down to the tip of his tail, effectively beating the previous record holder by nearly an inch in height, or 0.75 inches to be exact.

George currently weighs in at 245 pounds, which is approximately 100 pounds heavier than the average Great Dane! His owner, David Nasser, claims that George eats roughly 110 pounds of food per month!

David and his wife, spend anywhere from $250 to $300 in dog food and treats every month.

"He's so tall, he can actually reach down into the sink and get a treat," said David when he and George recently appeared on the Oprah Winfrey show.

George has is very own queen sized bed to sleep on at home!

"We originally started him in a dog crate. Then, he outgrew that, and he went to a twin-size bed," explained David. "Within about a year, he outgrew that."

George also enjoys riding around in style inside a golf cart.

"He loves it," says David. "He hops right in, and we're ready to go. It's one of his most favorite things to do."

This gentle giant even has his very own website - www.giantgeorge.com. George can also be found through his Facebook and Twitter pages as well.

Previous Record Holders

The previous record holder was a White Great Dane from San Diego, California, by the name of Titan. Titan was measured at 42.375 inches.

Before Titan, there was Gibson, another Great Dane who was from Grass Valley, California, who measured 42.2 inches in height.

The Title

The Editor-In-Chief of Guinness World Records, Craig Glenday, has stated that the title of World's Tallest Dog is very competitive and as such yields plenty of controversy:

"This is a hotly contested record and after some controversy and conflicting media reports we decided to send our own official adjudicator to put the final stamp on this record holder. We can indeed say now that George is the top dog."

More Guinness Records

With all the attention and media interest that Guinness World Records has received because of George and the title of World's Tallest Dog, Guinness World Records has decided to create more pet records.

Guinness World Records is now in search of pet record holders for the following titles, to name a few:

Longest Ears on a Dog

Smallest Dog in Length

Oldest Dog

Smallest Cat

Oldest Cat

"This record has also sparked great interest in finding other pet records, so we're asking everyone to check their dog houses, scratch posts and under the bed - they just might be living with a record-breaking pet," explained Mr. Glenday.

Guinness World Records

Guinness World Records is the foremost authority on record-breaking achievements from around the world.

The annual Guinness World Records book was first published in 1955. Today it is published in over 100 countries and is translated into 25 different languages.

If you, or your pet, are interested in applying for a world record, you can submit your record claim at www.guinnessworldrecords.com

Photo Credit:Laertes

Making Your Office Dog-Friendly

2010-02-23T13:41:00.003-08:00

Bringing your dog to work with you is something that most pet owners wish they can do. For some, it's already a reality, for others it will take some convincing before their boss and fellow colleagues will warm up to the idea. Chances are, that there are other colleagues at your current place of employment that also wish to bring their dogs to work with them. Banding together for this common cause is a good idea!

Survey Results

The America Pet Products Manufacturing Association (APPMA) conducted a survey of pets in the workplace and they determined that one in five companies allowed their employees to bring their pets to work. Contrary to popular belief, it is not only pet stores, pet boutiques and other small businesses that allow pets; a few Fortune 500 companies allow pets as well. Google is one great example!

It certainly will be easier to obtain approval from your boss if you present them with sound statistics. Thankfully, the survey that was done by the APPMA of pet-friendly businesses outlined the following figures:

* 73% of pet-friendly businesses state that pets helped to create a more productive working environment

* 73% of these same businesses also stated that the interpersonal skills of their employees improved

* 58% claimed that their employees often stayed late with their pets by their side

* 27% of companies witnessed a decrease in employee absenteeism

* 100% stated that they would maintain a pet-friendly policy

Most employers also commented on the fact that their staff morale and camaraderie also improved once they were allowed to bring their pets to work.

Persuading Colleagues

After you have gathered all the facts and your employer is ready to consider the possibility of allowing dogs at your work, your next task will be to persuade your office colleagues.

This will be easier on all of you if you establish guidelines and etiquette, for both the dogs and the workers. Keep in mind that it will only take one incident to cause a company to abandon their pet-friendly policies.

Doggie Etiquette

Here are a few suggestions on doggie etiquette, as well as general guidelines that you can suggest to your employer and fellow colleagues:

* Your dog must be obedient, well socialized and comfortable around strangers. If your dog is shy or aggressive, bringing him to work will not be a good idea!

* Your dog should also be healthy and clean. No fleas or kennel cough, please!

* Bring a crate, or bed, large enough for your dog to lay and play on, as this will be his 'space' whilst he is at work with you. Discourage him from venturing too far away from his bed or crate by providing him with plenty of toys and treats, or putting up a baby gate if your desk is inside an office or cubicle. Never bring your dog to work on days when you know that you will be in meetings all day.

* Remember to bring water, food, treats and bowls. A collar and leash are also a must-have! You will need take your dog for a walk every few hours and remember to clean up after him too!

* Be considerate of your fellow colleagues and keep your dog away from anyone is afraid of dogs or has allergies. Never let your dog in the bathroom, meeting room, or dining areas.

* Your dog is your responsibility at work and you should never expect a colleague or subordinate to take care of him for you.

Dogs In The Workplace

During the initial stages, your employer and work colleagues may find your dog to be a distraction. However, this will eventually dissipate as everyone becomes more accustomed to dogs in the office. As this starts to happen, the benefits as outlined by the APPMA's survey will start to show.

Photo Credit:johnonolan

Which Dog Breeds Swallow the Most Nonfood Items?

2010-02-22T14:37:00.002-08:00

Anyone who has ever owned a dog has most likely experienced the disappearance of objects from the home that eventually find their way inside the family dog. Some dogs are more prone to swallowing nonfood items than others, unfortunately for reasons known only to themselves. A few theories include stress, separation anxiety, boredom and more, but until dogs can talk and explain it themselves, we can only guess as to why it is that they swallow non-food items.

A Dog's Age

Young dogs and puppies are especially subject to eating foreign objects. They teethe the same as a young child does. To them biting provides them with relief in some instances and your socks, or other clothing, could be their chosen delicacy of the day. Chew toys will certainly help with this problem! Sturdy rubber toys with food inserted inside them will keep a teething puppy busy for many hours.

Older dogs may have different issues than puppies and may chew and swallow a non-food item if it smells particularly good to them, smells like their favorite person, or tastes like food.

However, the older and larger a dog is, the more powerful their jaws are! Therefore if they are particularly destructive, they can consume rubber chew toys as well. That means frequently resupplying their toy box and keeping them constantly occupied.

Doggie Contraband

The type of contraband that is ingested will determine the severity of the issue. Straight, hard objects present more of a danger than those of other shapes, such as found with toys, socks, balls, etc. Straight objects have a possibility of being fatal due to their tendency to get attached to a dog's throat, intestines or somewhere in between. Getting attached to the intestine can cause a rupture which is frequently fatal. Occasionally these objects can form a partial bowel obstruction which is more difficult to diagnose quickly.

Prevention is definitely the key here! Just as you would put away things that a toddler may endanger themselves with, so too should you put away objects that your dog may harm themselves with if they were to accidentally swallow them. In the event that their curiosity allows them to find the object and swallow it, and provided that you actually catch them, veterinary care is absolutely necessary and should be attended to immediately. If your dog starts to manifest unusual behavior or symptoms for unknown reasons, there are other observations you can make.

Signs That Your Dog Has Swallowed A Non-Food Item

Indication that your dog may have ingested a foreign object would be their refusal to eat for up to 24 hours. Vomiting what they do eat or not having any bowel movements are also common symptoms. Medications that help stop a dog from vomiting or encourage bowel movements should not be given until a diagnosis is made by a Veterinarian.

Medications that encourage bowel movements can cause a rupture of the bowel which is frequently fatal. Medications that stop vomiting mask symptoms and worsen the prognosis.

Dog Breeds

Terriers and terrier type dogs top the list as the chief offenders. Most commonly seen in some veterinary practices are Staffordshire bull terriers, Jack Russell terriers, English Bull terriers, Springer spaniels and Border collies are up there at the top of the list. The natural instinct of terrier breeds to scavenge and hunt leads them to some unlikely targets. It's the nature of the breed.

If you are considering the possibility of adding a dog to your family it is important to investigate breeds. Ages of children, homes without children, and working adults all have different needs and may select different types of dogs.

Do not overlook the possibility of a mixed breed dog. Mutts are usually healthier due to the inbreeding of pedigree breeds and make great pets as they are more vigorous than some purebred dogs.

Photo Credit:wlashbrook

The New Answer for Controlling Pet Overpopulation: Chastity Belt for Dogs!

2010-02-19T14:11:00.002-08:00

As a dog owner you have probably been told you should get your pet spayed or neutered. There is certainly no doubt that spaying or neutering your dog is a great way to help ensure that you do not, unexpectedly, end up with unwanted puppies; and it is a very responsible way in which you can do your part to help keep the canine population under control.

For some dog owners, though, the idea just doesn't work for them. Either it is against their beliefs, or because their dog is unable to undergo such surgery. In other situations it is because the owners are planning on breeding their dogs once they have reached an acceptable age.

So how can they stop unwanted pregnancies besides quarantining their dog? A new invention may just be the answer - a dog chastity belt!

Medieval Solution

Chastity belts are not unheard of. They actually were used quite regularly in medieval times, although for women and not dogs. A Louisiana dog breeder, Dexter Blanch, actually came up with the idea to create a chastity belt for dogs. It is called the Pet Anti Breeding System or PABS. It is a belt that has a buckle locking system and a mesh pad that is removable and washable.

PABS allows a dog to still go to the bathroom as nature intended. It just prevents the dog from copulating. It is also not harmful to the male dog should he try anything with the female wearing the PABS. It is made to be comfortable for the female dog to wear and easy for the owner to put on their dog. However, it is made to be secure enough to stay on at all times.

The only concerns about using PABS instead of getting your dog spayed or neutered includes the fact that owners will have to wash the pad part of PABS on a regular basis though, as it will become soiled quickly. Also, PABS does nothing to prevent your dog from going into heat and it is not a solution for male dogs, only female dogs can use PABS.

Keep in mind that your dog will go into heat for approximately 21 days, two to four times per year, depending on her breed and age. This consists of 7 days in which your dog is starting to come into heat, 7 days during the middle of the heat cycle, which is the time frame when she will bleed and will most easily become pregnant, and then a final 7 days whilst she is going out of the heat cycle.

A Nice Alternative

Many dog owners may be wondering why they should consider PABS. There are actually many good reasons: Some people are not comfortable with subjecting their dogs to the health risks of being spayed or neutered. For these people, PABS is a perfectly safe alternative. Other owners may want to breed their dogs eventually, but just not right now. PABS is a device that allows an owner to be in control of when their dogs are bred and to whom.

PABS offers a nice alternative that is safe and completely reversible. You can control whether or not your dog becomes pregnant. You do not have to make the permanent decision to get your dog sterilized.

The idea of a dog chastity belt may not be for everyone. Many veterinarians still stand by spaying and neutering as the best option for preventing unwanted pregnancy and overpopulation. However, PABS has also seen some great testimonials from veterinarians who believe this is a great option for some dogs. The decision really is up to the dog owner. You have to decide what option is best for your dog. Check out PABS. Learn more about it and see if it is something that could be right for you and your dog.

Photo Credit:fontplaydotcom

Puppy and Kitten Mills: What You Can Do To Help

2010-02-17T08:00:00.002-08:00

Puppy and kitten mills are atrociously run breeding places that offer young puppies and kittens to pet stores, over the internet and sometimes even to unsuspecting animal lovers as well. These places have been at odds with groups that care for the well-being of animals for years now. The animals that are bred are kept in small cages, fed poorly and are given no medical treatment. They also get no exercise or a chance to socialize.

When the animals can no longer have big litters, they are put to death. The puppies and kittens that come from these mills often have illnesses when sold, or genetic problems that can come about later in their lifetime.

Responsible Breeding

A breeder who adheres to responsible breeding standards will make a huge difference in the quality and health of the pet you finally choose from that breeder. People that breed responsibly make sure that the animals have proper medical care from a veterinarian and are confirmed to be in good health. Responsible breeders also make sure that their animals are kept clean and safe surroundings. Animals that are bred should be loved pets that are treated well and never in an inhumane way.

How You Can Help

If your heart aches for these poor defenseless cats and dogs, there are certainly some things you can do to help with the issue of puppy and kitten mills. Below are 5 ways you can help put a stop to puppy and kitten mills:

* Sign a Pledge

The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) is asking people that care for the wellfare of animals to not buy their next pet from pet stores or websites on the internet and to not purchase any pet supplies from establishments that sell puppies and kittens.

* Lobby to Change the Laws in Your State

Write to the lawmakers in your area and let them know that you have concerns about the inhumane way that animals are treated in puppy and kitten mills, and that you want this concern to be addressed before Congress. Ask them to elaborate on the power of the Animal Welfare Act so that it will include kennels that sell large amounts of puppies to unsuspecting people.

* Make Your Community Aware

You can write a letter to the editor of your local paper in order to make people more aware of puppy and kitten mills that currently exist in your area. If you are not sure what to say in your letter, you can use a pre-written one available on the HSUS website.

* Buy the Dog Savers Kit

For $3, this kit has what you will need to begin to inform people of puppy and kitten mills in your neighborhood. This kit includes printed information, letter templates, hints for creating legislation and ideas for activities. This Dog Savers kit was created to help you talk about the puppy mill issue effectively and in a well-thought out way, no matter if you are talking to your friends and loved ones or the local media.

* Make The Pet Store in Your Neighborhood Puppy Friendly

The Puppy Friendly Pet Stores initiative requests that dog lovers approach their local pet stores to urge them to follow "puppy friendly" policies by not offering dogs in their store and encouraging pet adoptions as an alternative. This initiative should also be practiced when it comes to the selling of kittens as well.

As you can see, there are a number of effective things you can do to put a stop to puppy and kitten mills. If you are an animal lover, the best thing you can do is help and speak for those that cannot help or speak for themselves.

Photo Credit:PicklesPerson

Doggie Ear Implants

2010-02-16T08:00:00.002-08:00

While we're all familiar with the sight of dogs' ears perking up when they hear something interesting, some dogs' ears stay constantly droopy. That's because their ears have become broken. The good news is that one man has found a solution!

From Droopy to Dynamic

Some dogs have broken ears, due to birth defects, diseases, accidents, and so on. Just as with humans, having body parts that don't function properly can be quite devastating to your pet pooch. Until recently, pet dogs with broken ears simply had to live with them.

But that changed when a man named Gregg Miller invented PermaStay Ear implants. Miller saw a need of certain pet owners, and met that need with his revolutionary ear plants for dogs. What exactly are the implants? These devices are extremely thin, light, and tiny. In fact, they only weigh 3x4 inches! The bulk of the implant is comprised of ultra-thin surgical mesh. A string of "fluroplastic" is located in the middle of the implant, and supports the ear somewhat like a backbone supports a back. Within 10 days of the implant being inserted into the ear, tissue actually starts growing inside the mesh!

A Work in Progress

While first developing the implant, Miller had to make some adjustments. That's because the first models, comprised entirely of fluroplastic, caused infections in the dogs' ears. He then used silicon sheeting, but half of the dogs still experienced ear infections. Miller then realized that surgical mesh was the solution for preventing infections in the dog's ears. He sold his first prototype to a German man, and doggone it-it worked! A patent for the ear implant is still pending.

New and Exciting

It remains to be seen how popular the dog ear implants will be. The implant itself is $400, while the surgery cost can range from $300-$600. It's safe to say that while the PermaStay implants definitely improve the appearance of dogs' ears, the price may simply be too steep for many dog owners. Another issue is that it's tough to gauge how popular the implant would be after the current recession ends. While most of the purchasers of the implants have been wealthy pet owners, more dog owners may find the implants to be more affordable, after the worldwide economy starts to improve.

The process of manufacturing the ear implants is somewhat complicated, and the pieces undergo four stages during their production. Each step is crucial in creating the finished product.

From Newspapers to New Ideas

Miller worked in the newspaper and advertising fields, before becoming an inventor in 1981. Have you heard of Neuticles-plastic testicle implants for pets? Miller invented them roughly 15 years ago. He hopes to focus all of his future inventions on implants for pets. After creating testicle and ear implants for pets, Miller is ready to tackle any other pet implants that would be marketable to pet owners.

If your dog had its ears cropped as a puppy, then you can restore it to its original form by using PermaStay ear implants. You can prove that every dog has its day, by turning droopy ears upside-down!

Photo Credit: Schantzilla

Valentine's Day Safety Tips for Your Pet

2010-02-10T08:00:00.000-08:00

Whilst your pet cat or dog might not know that it's Valentine's Day, that does not necessarily mean that they cannot or will not love it just the same as you do! The key is for your pet to enjoy the special day safely. Here are some tips to ensure that that happens:

Keep Their Paws off Chocolate

While you and your friends or relatives can certainly enjoy some savory chocolates on Valentine's Day, you should never, ever feed any to your pets! This could cause a variety of unwanted symptoms, including:

* Ultra-fast heartbeats

* Tremors

* Hyperactivity

* Liver damage

* Seizures

So even if your pet cat, dog, or bird seems to have a craving for chocolate, never feed it even a morsel of the savory stuff. In fact, eating just four ounces of chocolate could be fatal for cats or dogs weighing ten pounds! The reason is that chocolate contains two different varieties of stimulants: theobromine and caffeine. An alternative is to feed your pet "chocolate drops" that manufacturers make specifically for pets.

Keep Seasonal Plants Out-of-Reach

Although certain seasonal flowers and plants can be inviting, it's also important to remember that some can be poisonous to birds, cats, and dogs. Certain plants are poisonous to cats, others are poisonous to dogs, and still others are poisonous to both cats and dogs. During Valentine's Day, you should know exactly which plants and flowers would make your pet sick. You can do that by getting a complete list from your pet's veterinarian.

While certain plants may look and smell appealing to humans, remember that they could be toxic to pets. And since cats and dogs are curious by nature, it's crucial that you keep the plants far enough from the animals that they can't nibble on them. In particular, keep roses away from your pet on Valentine's Day. Biting or stepping on the thorns could cause your pet cat or dog to be injured. If your pets are going to be near roses, make sure that you remove all the thorns first!

Animals and Alcohol

You should also keep alcohol far from animals. Just a small amount of alcohol can cause a wide variety of symptoms among cats and dogs, including vomiting, tremors, and comas. So if you're going to enjoy some wine or champagne don't allow Fluffy and Fido to lap up some!

Be Careful of Candles

Whilst candlelit dinners are extremely romantic and enjoyed by every person, some pets can be rather curious of the bright flames and warmth emitted by the candles. Under no circumstances should you leave your pets unattended in a room in which a candle has been left to burn.

Remember the old adage "Curiosity killed the cat"? Well, it could be a case of 'curiosity burned the cat' if you do not take precautions with candles on Valentine's Day. Cats, especially kittens, can quickly jump up on your dining table to investigate the flickering candles and may accidentally knock them over. Inquisitive dogs can burn their noses whilst trying to sniff at scented candles.

Show Love Through Alternatives

Just because your pet can't eat chocolate on Valentine's Day, doesn't mean they can't enjoy the day as much as do. As an alternative, you could buy some pet-safe snacks or toys that are shaped like hearts. Even if your pet cat or dog doesn't know that it's a holiday, they'll know that you have a heart for them.

Other ideas include providing them with a pet spa treatment, or simply spending some quality time playing with your pet or cuddling with them. What's important is that you show your pet that you love him or her.

Both you and your pet can enjoy a safe and loving Valentine's Day, by following these basic safety guidelines. Have a heart by keeping your pet safe on this special day!

Photo Credit: Nieve44/La Luz

Have a Heart for Chained Dogs Week

2010-02-09T08:00:00.002-08:00

The "Have a Heart for Chained Dogs Week" Campaign is the week leading up to Valentine's Day.

The Cause:

Cards and dog treat coupons are being mailed to dog owners across the country in the efforts of shedding some light on the topic of chained dogs and abuse. A brochure being given along with the goodies details how chaining a dog up is the equivalent of abusing a dog.

Dogs Deserve Better, a non-profit group whose mission is to bring chained outdoor dogs inside, is asking for animal lovers to step forward and support this worthwhile and honorable cause.

This group is pleading with dog owners to either give their pets up or bring them indoors, especially during winter. They go on further to explain that every pet is in need of human contact on a daily, if not hourly basis. This human contact is very difficult to come by when your dog is cruelly chained to a tree all by himself. These animals, if left tethered to the tree for an extended period of time, will become unhappy, distanced from others, bored and this may lead to aggression. Studies conducted by Veterinarians and Animal Psychologists have concluded these facts to be true.

State Efforts:

Three states have already enforced the law of time limits on dog tethering. These states include Nevada, Maryland and California. Other states are working towards the same efforts for this type of law to be made mandatory. These states include Pennsylvania, New York, South Carolina, North Carolina, Texas, Rhode Island, Hawaii, New Jersey, Maine and Washington.

Sadly, none of the remaining States in America have laws against chaining dogs. Even though almost every Animal Control Officer and Humane Officer working and volunteering in the USA can attest to the fact that the most common animal cruelty complaint that they receive is about chained and penned up dogs, there are still no laws regarding this cruel issue.

In order to have laws passed in every US State, citizens need to encourage their local and State Representatives and Senators by voicing their concerns about this neglectful, abusive and inhumane treatment of dogs.

Dogs Deserve Better has created a page on their website where they have placed letters that you can print out and mail to your Legislator, as well as to the Editor of your local newspaper. There are other materials, such as brochures and flyers that you can also download and printout to be distributed in your neighborhood.

Other Ways In Which You Can Help:
If you want to help this cause please send pet treat coupons, donate a cash gift or make Valentine's Day cards and send to:

Dogs Deserve Better, Inc.
P.O. Box 23
Tipton, PA 16684

You can also donate by either calling 1-877-636-1408 or visiting the Donations page. Dogs Deserve Better also accepts annual memberships and automatic monthly donations.

If you know of a chained dog please contact the Humane Society of the United States and reveal the address of the dog. You can do this anonymously at 1-202-452-1100.

The Dogs Deserve Better Organization:

The Dogs Deserve Better organization has a very informative website that will keep you up-to-date on all of the latest news regarding this law.

Dogs Deserve Better is also looking for concerned animal lovers to take on Volunteer Area Representative roles in communities across America and will help provide brochures, flyers and letters with your name and contact information listed.

Success Stories:

Would you like to read some success stories of how "Have a Heart Chained Dog's Week" has changed many dogs' lives? You can read all about them by visiting the Success story page at Dogs Deserve Better.org.

These stories may very well make you teary eyed, but you will also be relieved and happy for the dog whose life was spent tethered on a chain until Dogs Deserve Better came to their rescue.

Photo Credit:tobyotter

Valentine's Day Treats For Your Pet

2010-02-08T08:00:00.003-08:00

This Valentine's Day do not forget to put one of your most special friends on your gift-giving list. They are probably your best friends as they stick by you through thick and thin, are always happy to see you and never get mad at you when you are in a bad mood. Your pet deserves some recognition this Valentine's Day because they are so faithful to you. What perfect way to show your dog or cat how much you love them by spoiling them on Valentine's Day? There are several gifts that they would love to have and that you would love to give them.

Below are some really awesome gifts for the best animal friend in your life:

Best Friends Pendant:

Just like the human version, this best friend's necklace is meant to be broken in half so that you each get a piece of it to wear around your neck. A red enameled heart is a perfect way to let everyone know just who your best friend is. Give your dog the half with the paw print to wear on his dog collar and keep the other half to wear around your own neck. At only $10 this stylish gift is a steal at the Haute Dog Boutique.

Valentine's Day Cards:

Who says you cannot give your pet a Valentine's Day card? There are no rules on this. Find just the right card to give to your pet at inkypaw.com. Visit their website to see the variety of cards that they have for your pet. Prices range from approximately $1 to $4 depending on the style of the card.

Dog Lover Gift Baskets:

Your dog will love you forever with or without a gift, but any one of these gift baskets are sure to make your dog drool. Filled with gourmet doggie treats, doggie toys and doggie clothes, your dog will be jumping for joy when he gets a whiff of these goodies. At Dog Lover Gift Baskets.com take a peek at these doggie gifts for your special pet. Prices vary from $7 to $140 depending on the basket chosen.

Gourmet Dog Treats:

At the Kool Dog Kafe you can choose an extravagant treat for your pet to indulge in. How about a doggie cannoli, a Valentine pretzel or a Valentine martini just for your pet to enjoy? Prices on these unique gourmet treats range from approximately $7 to $18. Do not just give your dog anything to eat, get him some Kool Dog Kafe gourmet treats to enjoy!

Heart Tug Plush Dog Toy:

This pretty pink pillow heart with a tugging rope on the end is perfect for your active dog. Small enough to play tug with; this plush heart toy can be used to play a game of fetch with your dog, or for him to simply chew on, and can also be used by your dog to snuggle up with for a nap. Your dog will enjoy this toy for Valentine's Day. Price is approximately $6 at Pampered Dog Gifts.com.

Sexy Beast Fragrance:

Starting at $50 for a 1.7oz bottle, you can purchase your dog Sexy Beast, a unisex pet fragrance from SexyBeastStyle.com. Infused with vanilla, musk, bergamot, mandarin, natural patchouli and nutmeg oil, this fragrance is formulated specifically for a dog's sensitive sense of smell. It is also hypoallergenic and paraben-free while containing a low amount of alcohol.

Spend Quality Time With Your Pet:

On Valentine's Day this year, make sure to set aside an hour or two to be with your pet. Spend quality time giving lots of love, hugs, and kisses to your pet. He or she will most probably enjoy that more than anything else!

Go ahead! Spoil your pet! Let them know how happy you are that they are in your life and that they are your sweet Valentine!

Photo Credit:Beverly & Pack

AKC Names Most Wanted Pooch!

2010-02-05T08:00:00.003-08:00

Based on the number of registrations of pure bred dogs with the American Kennel Club in 2009, it has been determined that for the 19th year in a row the Labrador Retriever is the most sought after dog in the country.

History of the Labrador Retriever

It is easy to understand why: known as one of the gentlest dogs around, the Labrador is an excellent all round dog. A sturdy and hard working breed this dog has been used as search and rescue dogs, Seeing Eye dogs, hunting companions and also a much loved and favored family pet.

The history of this breed dates back to the 1700's in Newfoundland. There were two breeds of dogs used by the fisherman of Labrador, the Greater and Lesser Newfoundland. The Greater Newfoundland is what most people would recognize as the now standard Newfoundland and is a massive dog that the fisherman used to pull carts loaded with fish for the market. The Lesser Newfoundland was also a constant companion of these fishermen and, though smaller in size than their counterpart, they were known for their heartiness and strength. These dogs would work 20 hour days and then be seen playing with the children of the fishermen.

These dogs earned a much deserved reputation for their hunting and retrieving abilities and their loyalty and loving devotion to their owners and the owners' family members. These dogs had a shorter smoother coat than the Greater Newfoundland which was noted to be such that water would roll off it much like it does on duck's feathers.

Eventually, the breed were exported to England where the dog was much admired and was soon renamed as the Labrador Retriever. Although a few Lab's were bred with other Retriever breeds, none of them panned out and the Labrador Retriever remained steadfast. Soon breed fanciers created a specific breed standard and in 1903 the English Kennel Club established the Labrador Retriever as an entirely separate breed and the AKC followed suit in 1917.

Due to a hefty dog tax and quarantine law, the breed ultimately died out in Newfoundland.

Working Lab's

Hunters favor this dog as an excellent bird dog due to its absolute love of water and skilled retrieving abilities. Search and Rescue organizations found that Labrador Retrievers had tireless energy and a sincere willingness to be trained which made them an excellent breed for field work.

Its gentle nature and dedication made it the perfect choice for people with handicaps who needed the help of a Seeing Eye dog or a dog that could fetch things, while families with children loved the fact that the dog had a playful and even temper that made them ideal family pets. With all these characteristics it is no wonder that they are the most wanted dog in America.

Other Top Dog Breeds

Besides the Labrador Retriever, other top breeds for 2009 included the German Shepherd in the second spot; the Yorkie in the third spot; and the Golden Retriever in the fourth spot.

Spots 5 to 10 were occupied by the Beagle, the Boxer, the Bulldog, the Dachshund, the Poodle and the Shih Tzu.

Remarkably, the German Shepherd won the second spot for the first time in 30 years, prompting AKC Spokesperson Lisa Peterson to state:

"Labs have been America's top dog for nearly two decades due to their loyal and gentle nature; But the German Shepherd Dog has gained ground recently, quite possibly due to the increased attention they receive for their security efforts at home and abroad. Hailed as the world’s leading police, guard and military dog, this energetic and fun-loving breed is a loyal family pet, ideal companion and dependable K-9 partner when duty calls."

While the Labrador may be the most wanted dog in America, every dog owner across the USA will proclaim that their dog is the Top Dog!

Photo Credit: Muffet

Oreo's Law

2010-02-03T08:00:00.001-08:00

The Victim:

A tragic story of a dog named Oreo lead to a New York law that prevents the killing of animals who may otherwise be helped by the effort of a No Kill rescue group.

Our animals only ask to be fed, walked and loved; so little to expect from humans for what these pets give to us in return. Oreo was a one year old dog who was taken to a building rooftop six floors up and thrown off by her cold and abusive owner in June last year. This cruel act led to both of Oreo's front legs being broken and a rib fractured. But, according to Oreo's neighbors, this was not the first incidence of Oreo's abuse. Neighbors stated that they often heard the sounds of Oreo being hit. Unfortunately, none of these neighbors reported it in time to save her.

The Supposed Rescue:

The ASPCA finally stepped in and helped Oreo get back on her feet again, literally. The owner was arrested and charged. Oreo made a full recovery and was called a 'miracle dog'.

However, the same organization that saved Oreo also turned their back on her.

The Unrighteous Death:

Although photo's taken of Oreo during and after her recovery shows her as a calm and loving dog, she was accused of showing an aggressive side. The ASPCA did a variety of testing to examine her temperament. They deemed her aggressive and after reviewing the test results, Ed Sayres, the President of the ASPCA, made the fatal decision to kill Oreo.

However, feeling that Oreo had a chance at being rehabilitated, an experienced rescue group, Pets Alive in Middletown, NY, wanted to take her in and give her a chance. So they called Ed Sayres and his secretary and left voice mail messages. Finally representatives from Pets Alive, called the ASPCA Press Office and everyone else on the ASPCA's website contact page.

Instead of getting through to someone, Pets Alive representatives were either ignored, hung up on or lied to. Finally, the ASPCA officially turned down their offer, even though Pets Alive is well-known for their experience in rehabilitating abused dogs.

The ASPCA put Oreo down.

Oreo's Law:

Had Oreo lived in California, she would not have been killed. In 1998, California legislators passed a law that it made it illegal for any shelter to kill any dog if a No Kill shelter or other type of rescue group offered to take the dog in, even if the shelter had deemed the dog to be aggressive.

Assembly Member Micah Z. Kellner and State Senator Thomas K. Duane, introduced a similar bill to the New York State Legislature that would prevent shelters from killing innocent animals, if an alternative home had been offered. The bill states that if a reasonable alternative from a rescue group were available to attempt rehabilitation, then they would be allowed to take the animal in to their care instead of the animal being euthanized.

This law has affectionately been called "Oreo's Law".

"The humane treatment of animals in the care of shelters is an issue about which I feel very strongly. No animal should be put down by a shelter if a reputable humane or rescue organization is willing to assume responsibility for its well being. Oreo's Law would make sure that in instances where animals aren't rabid or physically suffering, such organizations have the authority to take possession with the payment of the normal adoption fee, and that Oreo's sad plight will not be repeated," said Senator Thomas K. Duane.

Nathan J. Winograd, the Director of the national No Kill Advocacy Center, has created an informative website detailing Oreo's plight at Yes Or No Oreo's Law.com.

Successful shelter directors from both SPCA and Non-SPCA shelters, animal rights advocates and feral cat advocates across the USA have all offered their support of Oreo's Law.

Rest in Peace, Oreo.

Photo Credit: Meagan

Attention Pet Owners: February is Pet Dental Health Month!

2010-02-01T08:00:00.001-08:00

While it is true that most people brush their teeth at least once or twice a day, hopefully anyway, not to mention flossing and gargling, the same cannot be said of our beloved pets, who, of course, rely on us for all of their needs.

February is Pet Dental Health Month, a month designated to bring attention to caring for our pet's teeth and gums. Sponsored by the American Veterinary Medical Association, Pet Dental Health Month aims to show people how to make dental hygiene a regular part of their routine when it comes to taking care of their pets, and not just during February but all year long.

The Importance of Pet Dental Care

The sad truth is that most well meaning pet owners simply don't realize the vast importance of dental care for their pets. In fact, periodontal disease is the problem most likely to affect both dogs and cats, but fortunately, this is one disease that can be easily prevented.

Since our pets cannot tell us when something is bothering them it's up to us as responsible pet owners to take a proactive approach. Regular dental care should be a part of your pet's life, including routine examinations by a veterinarian who will be able to anticipate problems and recommend the best course of action.

Similar to humans, plaque and tartar can build up on your pet's teeth and trap bacteria facilitating its growth. And while at first, plaque or tartar may not seem like menacing issues, they can eventually lead to life threatening conditions as well as quite a bit of pain and discomfort for your pet. An infection may very well turn into abscesses, gingivitis, ulcers, loss of teeth, and even loss of bone supporting the jaw.

Systemic infections, meaning those that begin in one place and move to another system of the body usually via the bloodstream, can lead to serious heart, liver, and kidney problems, just to name a few. However, all of these diseases and conditions can be prevented or successfully managed with just a bit of effort on your part, keeping your precious pet free from pain and your veterinary bills at a minimum.

Caring for Your Pet's Teeth and Gums

Although most of us lead incredibly busy lives, we still must make the time to properly care for all of our pets needs, including dental hygiene. Even if you've never attempted to clean your pet's teeth before, you should gradually introduce the process to them.

The first step is taking your pet to the veterinarian for a thorough dental exam. There's no need to wait for their regular annual visit, especially if you have never had their teeth cleaned or examined before. Schedule the next visit based on the outcome of the exam and the advice of your vet. Many pets will need a professional cleaning once per year and will need to be sedated for this common procedure.

Back at home, using plenty of praise and patience, you can introduce the idea of "brushing" your pet's teeth with short, positive sessions. Begin with a piece of gauze wrapped around your finger and dipped in some tuna for cats or some beef broth for dogs. Rub your finger over the teeth and gums as best you can, remembering to keep the brushing brief whilst reassuring your pet. After you've mastered this method, move on to using a toothbrush.

A soft toothbrush designed for either cats or dogs along with pet toothpaste are available at pet supply stores or from your vet. Never use human toothpaste on an animal.

You also have the option of switching to a food that has been specially formulated for combating diseases of the teeth and gums. Look for a seal of acceptance from the Veterinary Oral Health Council on the bag or ask your vet for recommendations.

Photo Credit: lovingshiva

War Veterans Matched With Homeless Pets

2010-01-29T08:00:00.000-08:00

Oftentimes the people who suffer the most from Wars are the hero's who fight it for us. In most cases these heroes return home to the USA scarred for life by their war experiences, with some suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

Whilst counseling and rehabilitation services are offered to these Vets, they do not always help.

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

When Dave Sharpe returned home from Operation Enduring Freedom in Iraq, he found himself struggling to deal with ordinary, everyday life because he was suffering from PTSD.

"I found myself waking up in the middle of the night, punching holes in walls, kicking and beating the refrigerator door," he said.

Sharpe accompanied a friend to a local pit bull rescue where he adopted a homeless pit bull puppy named Cheyenne. Together they were able to heal each other and the next time when Sharpe thought of punching the wall, he only had to look at Cheyenne to stop.

"I saw this puppy, cocking her head, looking up at me, like, what are you doing?"

It was then Sharpe realized that Cheyenne not only relied upon him to take care of her, but that she was also there to take care of him.

"I froze, I put down my drink, I picked her up and lay with her in my bed. I cried and I told her the whole story. I didn't feel judged;" he said.

Puppy Inspiration

Sharpe felt so inspired by how his dog, Cheyenne, helped him cope that he set out to start Pets2Vets, an non-profit organization that helps connect war veterans with homeless pets through adoption arrangements of shelter cats and dogs.

According to the PetsVets website, their mission is to:

To pair homeless pets with combat veterans, law enforcement/emergency personnel, and those affected by PTSD in order to:

* Help our nation's heroes and their families with rehabilitation through pet therapy

* Save sheltered pets from being euthanized by providing them with homes

* Raise public awareness of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Pets2Vet's Vision

A major objective of Pets2Vets is to help increase awareness of post traumatic stress disorder in returning war heroes. In fact, the US Army conducted a study recently in which they determined that one out of every eight soldiers returning from Iraq, had symptoms of PTSD.

Even though there a few private and governmental groups that are set up to help provide war veterans with service dogs, patients who have suffered a traumatic brain injury or who have been diagnosed with PTSD, do not qualify for these programs.

Sadly, even if they did qualify, most veterans are afraid to apply due to the public stigma attached to such psychological issues.

Making the Pet Connection

In order to create the perfect pet connection, war veterans, Firefighters, Law Enforcement Officer and their families are taken to their local animal shelter or rescue to be matched with a suitable pet

Once matched, a bonding process begins which enables the vets to spend quality time forging friendships with their chosen pet at the animal shelter or rescue. After which Pets2Vets will aide in transporting the new pet back to the vet's home anywhere in the USA.

Pets2Vets also purchases a starter kit for the new pet which includes bowls, collar, leash and a crate.

Any veteran from WWII, Korea, Vietnam, Cold War, Desert Storm, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Iraqi Freedom and/or family members who are survived by a veteran may apply to Pets2Vets.

Also any firefighter, law enforcement officer, first responder, as well as the families of 9/11 may take part in Pets2Vets.

Furthermore, Pets2Vets works alongside vets who are inpatients in a hospital or rehabilitation program. Pets2Vets assists in matching a veteran with a pet at a local shelter and then transports the vet to the shelter to visit their new pet during their rehabilitation.

Photo Credit: Beverly & Pack

2009's Top 10 Pet Poisons

2010-01-27T08:00:00.000-08:00

The ASPCA's Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) has compiled a list of the top 10 pet poisons for which they handled more than 140,000 cases in 2009.

1. People Medication

Medication that has been prescribed for people has long been number one on the ASPCA's list of pet poisoning cases. In fact, in 2009 alone, the ASPCA handled 45,816 calls related to pets who have ingested prescription medication as well as over-the-counter drugs, like painkillers and dietary supplements.

Be sure to keep all pill bottles safety contained inside a cabinet and out of your pet's reach.

2. Insecticides

Creepy crawly insects often invade our homes and most people quickly turn to insecticides to eliminate them. However, these insecticides can be harmful, and sometimes lethal, to our pets. Last year ASPCA's toxicologists received 29,020 calls that were directly related to insecticides. Most of which were concerning flea and tick products that were applied incorrectly.

3. People Food

Roughly 17,450 cases were reported to the ASPCA in 2009, in which cats, dogs and other pets ate harmful people food. The most harmful foods include raisins, grapes, avocado, chocolate and xylitol containing gum.

4. Poisonous Plants

A lot of the most common house plants were the cause of 7,858 panicked calls to APCC during 2009. These common plants include lilies, azalea's, rhododendron's, and sago palm's. Lilies are extremely toxic to cats and can lead to kidney failure.

5. Pet Medications

Over-eager pet owners who misapplied or incorrectly administered medications that were prescribed for their pets caused over 7,680 calls to the ASCPA last year. Always read the instructions on your pet's medications carefully to avoid overdosing.

6. Rodenticides

Many homes receive unwanted visitors in the form of mice and rats. Unfortunately, one of the ways in which people choose to rid their homes of these unwanted visitors is by laying out rat and mice poison. Sadly, 6,639 calls were handled by ASPCA in 2009, concerning pets that had accidentally swallowed these poisons. This is because most of the attractants that entice rats and mice are also attractive to pets as well.

Also, pets that catch or eat poisoned rodents will also be ingesting the poison as well.

7. Household Cleaners

Bleaches, disinfectants and some detergents can be quite toxic to pets and actually resulted in 4,143 calls to the ASCPA in 2009. Most of these calls involved pets who either inhaled or ingested these household cleaners. Cats that walk across a recently mopped floor which has been treated with a harmful cleaner and then licked their paws, stand the risk of accidentally ingesting the cleaner.

8. Metals

Over 3,300 calls made to the ASCPA in 2009, involved pets being poisoned by heavy metals, like zinc, lead and mercury. Of these, lead is the most harmful. Ingesting lead paint chips and linoleum, as well as inhaling lead-filled dust are the most common ways in which a pet can be poisoned by lead.

9. Fertilizer

There are specific fertilizers that, when ingested, can poison pets. These fertilizers can cause acute gastric upset and even gastrointestinal obstruction and were behind 2,329 calls received by the ASPCA in 2009.

10. Hazardous Chemicals

Exposure to hazardous chemicals resulted in 2,127 cases of pet poisoning reported to the ASPCA last year. These harmful chemicals are commonly found in drain cleaners, pool cleaners, and antifreeze and when ingested can lead to respiratory difficulties, gastrointestinal upset, depression and even chemical burns.

Remember prevention is always better than a cure, so keep a watchful eye on your pet and at the first sign of illness take them to your veterinarian. If you have reason to believe that your cat or dog has been exposed to any harmful substances or has ingested them, you should immediately call the Animal Poison Control Center's 24-hour hotline at (888) 426-4435 or call your veterinarian.

Photo Credit: madmolecule

Arthritis In Dogs

2010-01-25T12:48:00.003-08:00

There are many diseases and ailments that dogs share with their human owners; one of those being Arthritis. Unfortunately, dogs suffer more from arthritis than people do.

Disorder

Arthritis is deemed to be a degenerative joint disease that corrodes the soft joint cartilage, which causes the surfaces of the bare bones to rub together. The long term affects of arthritis is the continual disintegration of the joints, which in turn causes tremendous pain as well as impaired mobility.

Roughly 20% of all dogs will be affected by arthritis; and it is neither breed nor age specific. However there are certain risk factors that should be taken into account in assessing whether or not your dog may have or may be prone to arthritis.

Arthritis Risk Factors

According to the leading veterinarians at the Novartis Animal Health organization, there are 5 specific risk factors to look out for:

* Obese Dogs

Veterinary studies have demonstrated that dogs that are obese are more likely to develop osteoarthritis nearly 3 years earlier than dogs that are of normal weight.

* Genetic predisposition

Some dog breeds are simply more prone to arthritis based on their genetic DNA. This is not to say, however, that they will be affected by arthritis, but that their chances are up to 70% higher because of their breed, which include German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers and Golden Retrievers.

* Joint deformities

Some poor pups are born with joint deformities that can lead to arthritis when they get to their senior years. On the hand, certain joint conditions, like canine hip dysplasia, can add unnecessary strain and harmful strain on a dog's joints. This excess strain can increase a dog's chances of developing osteoarthritis in the future.

*Joint trauma

Sadly, there are many different types of injuries that dogs can sustain that can lead eventually to arthritis. The most common injury is one that has been sustained as a result of being hit by a car. In fact any injury in which there has been any damage to a dog's bones, tissues or ligaments will increase their chances of contracting arthritis later on in their life.

You should also be aware that dogs who are extremely active or partake in agility training or who are considered to be working dogs, are also at a higher risk of developing arthritis due to the excess pressure and strain on the joints.

* Infection

Lyme Disease, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever, as well as several other types of viral, fungal and bacterial infections can quickly create the perfect conditions by which a dog's joints will succumb to the degenerating affects of arthritis.

Arthritis In Your Dog

The easiest way to determine whether or not your dog has contracted arthritis is by paying special attention to your dog. Dogs that were once very active may start to slow down. They will also have trouble lying down or standing up. Arthritic dogs will likely refuse to go up or down stairs and may also appear to be quite lame as well. If your dog exhibits any of these signs, you can bet that he is suffering from severe joint pain.

Arthritis Treatment

Be sure to take your dog to your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis. A good vet will be able to determine how much pain, if any, that your dog is in and will also offer various suggestions on medical and surgical treatments.

In most cases simply altering your dog's diet and exercise regime, along with taking anti-inflammatory pain control medications, can cause a major improvement.

Some vets also recommend that the pet owner use natural remedies to help support strong healthy joints in their dogs. A great one to use is "Old Timer", an holistic herbal tonic that works to reduce joint inflammation.

Old Timer contains herbs that have powerful restorative properties to help your dog feel stronger quicker.

Photo Credit: chaps1chaps1

How Natural Is Your Cat's "Natural Food"?

2010-01-22T08:00:00.002-08:00

The ethics of good nutrition doesn't stop with your dinner plate; it extends to your cat's food dish as well.

These days, cats require a diet that is specifically tailored to their unique needs and to accomplish that cat owners are turning to 'natural' cat food. But how natural is 'natural'? Do you know what to look for when choosing a natural cat food for your kitty?

Cat Food Regulation

It should come as no surprise that all pet food is regulated by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). This regulation prohibits pet food companies from making false claims on pet food labels about the quality of the food, such as not claiming to be 'Organic' or 'Natural' if they aren't.

The AAFCO states that the term 'natural' means:

"... derived solely from plant, animal or mined sources ... not containing any additives or processing aids that are chemically synthetic except in amounts as might occur unavoidably in good manufacturing practices."

In order to fully comply with AAFCO's guidelines that state a pet food must be "complete and balanced", the majority of commercially prepared cat and dog food do contain synthetic sources of essential vitamins and minerals.

However, there are many benefits to feeding your cat a natural food, such as reducing the risk of intestinal tract infections and diseases of the bowel. Unlike commercial cat food, natural cat food does not contain any preservatives, additives, food stabilizers, wheat or other contradictory ingredients that are frequently found in canned, wet cat food that have been proven to lead to digestive upsets in cats.

Furthermore, cats that are fed a natural diet usually have a more shinier and manageable coat; not to mention the fact that they are also more active and alert. Anecdotal evidence also suggests that cats on such natural diets also live longer and healthier lives than their commercially fed counterparts.

What Natural Ingredients Should You Look For?

*No Artificial Colors, Flavors or Preservatives

"Natural" cat foods should not contain any synthetic fillers, artificial colors/flavors nor any man-made preservatives. However, naturally occurring flavors, colors and preservatives are to be expected, such as vitamin E and tocopherols.

*Byproducts

Whilst most byproducts are detrimental to your cat's long term health, most plant and meat-based byproducts actually fall under the definition of "natural" as specified by the AAFCO.

*Protein

The first ingredient in any cat food should state the source of the protein, i.e. meat, fish or poultry. Being carnivores by nature, in order to survive in the wild, cats have to eat the tissue of other animals. This translates into commercial cat food as well.

*Grains

Some cats develop severe allergies caused by excess grains in their food. Most times, a cat's owner is not even aware that their cat has an allergy which is being caused by their food. Some examples of these allergies include dandruff, dull coat and constant itching. There are, however, natural sources of carbohydrates that help to keep a cat's energy levels high throughout the day, such as whole grain barley and potatoes.

*Fruits and Vegetables

Even though your cat's natural food may claim to have fruits and vegetables in the ingredients list, you have no way of knowing whether or not they were genetically grown. That said look for peas and spinach to provide vitamin E and antioxidants, to build your cat's immunity.

To take the guesswork out of choosing and feeding a natural food to your cat, you can opt for ready-made, holistically natural foods, such as Prowl Cat Food, an all-natural dehydrated raw cat food which is prepared by adding warm water.

Prowl Cat Food is guaranteed to be 100% human grade food that does not contain any grains, by-products, chemical preservatives, or artificial colors/flavors. The first few ingredient listed are USDA chicken, eggs, potatoes, yams, and spinach.

Photo Credit:JSomeone1