On Sunday, April 1, 2012, the Patton Avenue Pet Company will have a doggie Easter egg hunt at its store at 1388 Patton Avenue in West Asheville. The egg hunt is a fundraiser for Brother Wolf Animal Rescue.
The small dog hunt starts at 2:30 p.m. Medium dogs begin hunting at 3:00 p.m. Large dogs join in at 3:30 p.m.
Prizes will be awarded to dogs and their people. They will also have a bake sale and raffle items. All proceeds go to Brother Wolf.
For directions to the store or more info, call Patton Avenue Pet Company at 828-505-8299.
Rescue Mommy
Friday, March 30, 2012
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
Treats Still on the Market
Last week, I alerted you to three brands of chicken jerky/tender treats about which the FDA has received complaints. (For full details, see the Monday, March 19, 2012 post.) The three brands are: Waggin Train, Canyon Creek Ranch, and Milo’s Kitchen.
I spotted bags of these treats at Target and PetSmart. The manufacturers have not recalled the treats. Please be extra careful. Maybe there is no link between the treats and the pet illnesses and death. Or maybe there is. Who wants to take a chance?
Rescue Mommy
I spotted bags of these treats at Target and PetSmart. The manufacturers have not recalled the treats. Please be extra careful. Maybe there is no link between the treats and the pet illnesses and death. Or maybe there is. Who wants to take a chance?
Rescue Mommy
Monday, March 26, 2012
What's Up with Maddy?
If you read the pets’ blog last week, you might have gathered that Maddy was not feeling well. It has been an interesting couple of weeks.
Maddy has been barfing for awhile. I tried switching her food to another brand because the former brand just was not helping with her weight loss. Her stomach is very sensitive, though. I thought the vomiting was either a hairball or something related to food change, so I did not worry too much.
When I found blood in the litter box, though, I became concerned. I took her to the vet where she had full blood work done. Her glucose levels were borderline diabetic, yet nothing else was serious. In fact, the same thing happened to her a few years ago when we went on vacation, and she overate. Her glucose levels spiked but stabilized once she returned to a normal diet.
The vet recommended that I continue trying to help her lose weight. He did not feel her glucose levels were significant enough to warrant medical intervention at this point. He gave her a shot of Cerenia, an anti-nausea drug, to help her with vomiting.
Then, last Friday, I found blood in her vomit. We went to the vet again. Thankfully, the X-ray did not show any obstructions or tumors. We think her stomach is just raw from the constant upset.
The vet gave her a shot of Cerenia. I can give her half a Pepcid each day (easier said than done). I plan to give her canned food for awhile since it seems to be milder on her stomach.
Until her stomach settles, I am not going to resume my efforts to help her lose weight. Once she is stable, I will try harder. The vet wants to recheck her glucose levels again in a few weeks.
I will keep you posted on her progress. Let this be a lesson. Don’t let your buddies pack on the pounds!
Rescue Mommy
Maddy has been barfing for awhile. I tried switching her food to another brand because the former brand just was not helping with her weight loss. Her stomach is very sensitive, though. I thought the vomiting was either a hairball or something related to food change, so I did not worry too much.
When I found blood in the litter box, though, I became concerned. I took her to the vet where she had full blood work done. Her glucose levels were borderline diabetic, yet nothing else was serious. In fact, the same thing happened to her a few years ago when we went on vacation, and she overate. Her glucose levels spiked but stabilized once she returned to a normal diet.
The vet recommended that I continue trying to help her lose weight. He did not feel her glucose levels were significant enough to warrant medical intervention at this point. He gave her a shot of Cerenia, an anti-nausea drug, to help her with vomiting.
Then, last Friday, I found blood in her vomit. We went to the vet again. Thankfully, the X-ray did not show any obstructions or tumors. We think her stomach is just raw from the constant upset.
The vet gave her a shot of Cerenia. I can give her half a Pepcid each day (easier said than done). I plan to give her canned food for awhile since it seems to be milder on her stomach.
Until her stomach settles, I am not going to resume my efforts to help her lose weight. Once she is stable, I will try harder. The vet wants to recheck her glucose levels again in a few weeks.
I will keep you posted on her progress. Let this be a lesson. Don’t let your buddies pack on the pounds!
Rescue Mommy
Friday, March 23, 2012
Service Dogs Help in so Many Ways
A couple of weeks ago, I read a great article about service dogs in the USA Weekend circular that accompanies our local newspaper. Traditionally, when you think of service dogs, you might think of seeing eye dogs. A dog’s job has expanded so much beyond assisting the blind. The article tells you about all the fantastic ways dogs help us. Here is a link:
http://www.usaweekend.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2012303090016
I hope you enjoy the article as much as I did.
Rescue Mommy
http://www.usaweekend.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2012303090016
I hope you enjoy the article as much as I did.
Rescue Mommy
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
A Tired Dog is a Happy Dog
While I was at the vet’s office with Maddy, I met a nice lady who had a terrified dog. We chatted a bit. I mentioned that I have a Jack Russell mix. She said they had Heelers and wondered what I did to keep Gracie happy. Both breeds are known for being high energy. Unfortunately, we did not have the opportunity for a lengthy chat. I hope you are reading!
I have found that consistent exercise is a big helper. Gracie gets two 20-30 minute walks each day. In the summer time, we usually go out again for a romp in the yard. She is older, though; this level of exercise satisfies her. A younger dog might want more play time.
Gracie is an exceptional dog. She is content to play with her toys and has not been destructive. Some dogs need a bit more to do, though. I have heard that dog puzzles are great tools. Here is a link to the Doctors Foster and Smith website so you can see what they are:
http://pet-supplies.drsfostersmith.com/search?p=Q&lbc=drsfostersmith&uid=533543874&w=puzzle&isort=score&method=and&stateid=s2A12C12A1U9Mg40KS&ts=results&ed=dogs&modaf=r:cat1:dogs
A trainer I visited a few months ago recommended these sorts of toys as great tools for your dog. I have not tried them with any of my dogs, so I cannot give a personal recommendation.
You could also try hiding treats around the house and telling your buddy to find them. I would recommend that your dog know and listen to the “stay” command first, though. I did this trick with Perdy and Dino who were not pros at the “stay” command. By the time I hid the last treat, they were two steps behind me. It sort of defeated the purpose of the exercise – to keep them entertained for awhile.
Active dogs might enjoy agility training too. (It is great exercise for you too!) A training facility in the Asheville area called “A Good Dog’s Life” used to offer agility classes. You could also try an Internet search for facilities in the area. Agility training is a popular thing.
No matter what course of action you take, the key is to be patient. A high energy dog can drive you nuts sometimes. Just remember – it is in their genetic makeup to do what they do. They cannot help it! They were bred to do a job, not sit on the couch and watch TV. We all need to move more, so put down the remote and take your buddy for walk. You will both be glad you did!
Rescue Mommy
I have found that consistent exercise is a big helper. Gracie gets two 20-30 minute walks each day. In the summer time, we usually go out again for a romp in the yard. She is older, though; this level of exercise satisfies her. A younger dog might want more play time.
Gracie is an exceptional dog. She is content to play with her toys and has not been destructive. Some dogs need a bit more to do, though. I have heard that dog puzzles are great tools. Here is a link to the Doctors Foster and Smith website so you can see what they are:
http://pet-supplies.drsfostersmith.com/search?p=Q&lbc=drsfostersmith&uid=533543874&w=puzzle&isort=score&method=and&stateid=s2A12C12A1U9Mg40KS&ts=results&ed=dogs&modaf=r:cat1:dogs
A trainer I visited a few months ago recommended these sorts of toys as great tools for your dog. I have not tried them with any of my dogs, so I cannot give a personal recommendation.
You could also try hiding treats around the house and telling your buddy to find them. I would recommend that your dog know and listen to the “stay” command first, though. I did this trick with Perdy and Dino who were not pros at the “stay” command. By the time I hid the last treat, they were two steps behind me. It sort of defeated the purpose of the exercise – to keep them entertained for awhile.
Active dogs might enjoy agility training too. (It is great exercise for you too!) A training facility in the Asheville area called “A Good Dog’s Life” used to offer agility classes. You could also try an Internet search for facilities in the area. Agility training is a popular thing.
No matter what course of action you take, the key is to be patient. A high energy dog can drive you nuts sometimes. Just remember – it is in their genetic makeup to do what they do. They cannot help it! They were bred to do a job, not sit on the couch and watch TV. We all need to move more, so put down the remote and take your buddy for walk. You will both be glad you did!
Rescue Mommy
Monday, March 19, 2012
Beware Chicken Jerky Treats
The Food and Drug Administration issued yet another warning about possible contamination in chicken jerky treats for dogs. In a story that brought back grim memories of the 2007 pet food debacle, the latest alert cautioned owners that complaints have been made about three brands of chicken jerky or tenders treats:
• Waggin Train, made by Nestle Purina
• Canyon Creek Ranch, made by Nestle Purina
• Milo’s Kitchen Homestyle Dog Treats, made by Del Monte
To read more about the story, here is a link to a recently posted article on MSNBC:
http://vitals.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2012/03/13/10657635-3-big-brands-may-be-tied-to-chicken-jerky-illness-in-dogs-fda-records-show
You can also read this article on the FDA website, which details symptoms and has other information:
http://www.fda.gov/AnimalVeterinary/SafetyHealth/ProductSafetyInformation/ucm295445.htm
When I was at the grocery store on Saturday, I spotted the Waggin Train treats on the shelf. Be very careful. Better yet, make your own dog treats as I do. At least then I know what the ingredients are.
Rescue Mommy
• Waggin Train, made by Nestle Purina
• Canyon Creek Ranch, made by Nestle Purina
• Milo’s Kitchen Homestyle Dog Treats, made by Del Monte
To read more about the story, here is a link to a recently posted article on MSNBC:
http://vitals.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2012/03/13/10657635-3-big-brands-may-be-tied-to-chicken-jerky-illness-in-dogs-fda-records-show
You can also read this article on the FDA website, which details symptoms and has other information:
http://www.fda.gov/AnimalVeterinary/SafetyHealth/ProductSafetyInformation/ucm295445.htm
When I was at the grocery store on Saturday, I spotted the Waggin Train treats on the shelf. Be very careful. Better yet, make your own dog treats as I do. At least then I know what the ingredients are.
Rescue Mommy
Friday, March 16, 2012
Kong Traffic Leash
The makers of the Kong chew toy have branched out into other products. I was surprised to see that they now make leashes and collars.
I picked up the Traffic Leash. Here’s a picture of Gracie as I am using the leash:
Take a close look where the leash connects to her harness. See that little loop? That is the reason I bought the leash.
The Traffic Leash version has a padded loop in the traditional spot at the top of the leash. Then, they added a second loop further down the leash. The idea is you would grab that second loop if you wanted to place your dog in a “heel” position. In my case, it comes in handy when she is flailing about in the car as I try to hook her into the safety harness.
The only complaint I have about the second loop is that Gracie sometimes caught a hind leg in the loop if I let the leash dangle too close to the ground. It was not a huge problem, though. (Keep in mind that Gracie is high energy.)
The leashes are not cheap. I spent about $15 at PetSmart, and that was on sale. I believe the regular price is around $20.
They offer other leashes with different features. The color palette is typical, nothing flashy.
Overall, I am happy with the purchase. The leash quality is good. The loops are very comfortable. And the second loop is a brilliant idea.
Rescue Mommy
I picked up the Traffic Leash. Here’s a picture of Gracie as I am using the leash:
Take a close look where the leash connects to her harness. See that little loop? That is the reason I bought the leash.
The Traffic Leash version has a padded loop in the traditional spot at the top of the leash. Then, they added a second loop further down the leash. The idea is you would grab that second loop if you wanted to place your dog in a “heel” position. In my case, it comes in handy when she is flailing about in the car as I try to hook her into the safety harness.
The only complaint I have about the second loop is that Gracie sometimes caught a hind leg in the loop if I let the leash dangle too close to the ground. It was not a huge problem, though. (Keep in mind that Gracie is high energy.)
The leashes are not cheap. I spent about $15 at PetSmart, and that was on sale. I believe the regular price is around $20.
They offer other leashes with different features. The color palette is typical, nothing flashy.
Overall, I am happy with the purchase. The leash quality is good. The loops are very comfortable. And the second loop is a brilliant idea.
Rescue Mommy
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
Ruffwear Web Master Harness
Company website: http://www.ruffwear.com/
Cost around $50, depending upon size and vendor
I want to start this review by saying this harness is expensive ($50 or more) and hard core. If your little buddy’s idea of a long walk is strolling around the yard, this harness is not for you. This harness is a great choice for hiking or, believe it or not, dogs with mobility issues (more on that later).
I bought the harness because I read it helped with pulling. While it does not eliminate leash pulling, it significantly reduces it. I also noticed that Gracie did not jump on me or other people as much as usual when she wore it.
The harness firmly attaches to Gracie’s body. Take a look at the three separate connection points:
I honestly do not know how a dog could slip out of this harness. Of course, where there is a will, there is a way!
Now, take a close look at the handle on the back of the harness:
If your dog had mobility issues, the handle would be great for helping your furry friend climb stairs or get in a car. In Gracie’s case, it came in handy when she was obstinate. I could easily grab the handle and lift her into my arms.
The harness materials are very top notch. If you are going to pay $50 for a harness, they should be! The harness has lots of padding, and the fabric seems to be very durable.
The back section is really stiff. I hope it gets softer over time. It definitely was not comfortable enough for Gracie to wear the harness while we rode in the car. I strapped her into the harness once we arrived at the Estate.
The fit is also a bit of a challenge. I read reviews that said the harnesses were larger than regular size. Gracie usually wears a medium in a harness.
I started with an extra small. I could not fit it over Gracie’s head. The second harness was a small. It fit better. I am still trying to figure out how to adjust the back section, though.
If you cannot find the harness at a local pet supply store, I recommend ordering it through a site that offers free shipping and/or returns. (Zappos.com sometimes carries certain sizes of the harness.) Since getting the fit just right is an issue, the free returns come in handy.
Again, I want to emphasize this harness is not for the casual walker. If you have an energetic dog who loves hiking or an elderly dog who needs a helping hand, this harness could be for you.
Rescue Mommy
Cost around $50, depending upon size and vendor
I want to start this review by saying this harness is expensive ($50 or more) and hard core. If your little buddy’s idea of a long walk is strolling around the yard, this harness is not for you. This harness is a great choice for hiking or, believe it or not, dogs with mobility issues (more on that later).
I bought the harness because I read it helped with pulling. While it does not eliminate leash pulling, it significantly reduces it. I also noticed that Gracie did not jump on me or other people as much as usual when she wore it.
The harness firmly attaches to Gracie’s body. Take a look at the three separate connection points:
I honestly do not know how a dog could slip out of this harness. Of course, where there is a will, there is a way!
Now, take a close look at the handle on the back of the harness:
The harness materials are very top notch. If you are going to pay $50 for a harness, they should be! The harness has lots of padding, and the fabric seems to be very durable.
The back section is really stiff. I hope it gets softer over time. It definitely was not comfortable enough for Gracie to wear the harness while we rode in the car. I strapped her into the harness once we arrived at the Estate.
The fit is also a bit of a challenge. I read reviews that said the harnesses were larger than regular size. Gracie usually wears a medium in a harness.
I started with an extra small. I could not fit it over Gracie’s head. The second harness was a small. It fit better. I am still trying to figure out how to adjust the back section, though.
If you cannot find the harness at a local pet supply store, I recommend ordering it through a site that offers free shipping and/or returns. (Zappos.com sometimes carries certain sizes of the harness.) Since getting the fit just right is an issue, the free returns come in handy.
Again, I want to emphasize this harness is not for the casual walker. If you have an energetic dog who loves hiking or an elderly dog who needs a helping hand, this harness could be for you.
Rescue Mommy
Monday, March 12, 2012
Still No
Angel joins us for almost every walkie. This daily contact with another dog is a good thing for Gracie. I had hoped it would give her a positive experience and open her eyes to the joys of having a buddy. I also have high hopes of winning the lottery one day. You can guess which one is likely to occur first.
When we went on our little excursion this weekend, it was almost as if Gracie knew I have been thinking about another dog. She went out of her way to growl, bark, and attack nearly every dog we saw. She pounced on a little dog at PetSmart when I lost hold of her leash. She growled and barked at a Bichon Frise puppy. She gave a Labradoodle the stink eye.
Gracie may tolerate Angel joining us for walkies. As long as Angel stays at her house, all will be well. Gracie has made it clear she prefers to be the queen of this castle.
Rescue Mommy
When we went on our little excursion this weekend, it was almost as if Gracie knew I have been thinking about another dog. She went out of her way to growl, bark, and attack nearly every dog we saw. She pounced on a little dog at PetSmart when I lost hold of her leash. She growled and barked at a Bichon Frise puppy. She gave a Labradoodle the stink eye.
Gracie may tolerate Angel joining us for walkies. As long as Angel stays at her house, all will be well. Gracie has made it clear she prefers to be the queen of this castle.
Rescue Mommy
Friday, March 9, 2012
Want a Purebreed? Visit a Shelter!!
I visited Brother Wolf last weekend. Their website featured two pugs who I wanted to meet. This visit made Rescue Daddy and Gracie a little nervous. I love visiting the shelter because you never know what fantastic animals you will meet.
While there, I saw a Weimaraner who is 7 months old and already trained to use Poochie Bells (the little bells you hang from the door; the dog jingles them when he/she needs a potty break). I saw a chocolate Lab and two Shih Tzus. I spotted a beautiful Australian Shepherd and sweet cocker spaniel. All of these dogs looked purebred to me, no mystery mixes.
I hear people say they want a certain breed, not a mutt. You can find almost any breed at a shelter or rescue group if you are patience. In fact, most of the breeds you see on the AKC website have rescue groups.
Before you head to a breeder (or WORSE pet store), please consider your local shelter. These animals deserve a chance to be part of your family.
Rescue Mommy
While there, I saw a Weimaraner who is 7 months old and already trained to use Poochie Bells (the little bells you hang from the door; the dog jingles them when he/she needs a potty break). I saw a chocolate Lab and two Shih Tzus. I spotted a beautiful Australian Shepherd and sweet cocker spaniel. All of these dogs looked purebred to me, no mystery mixes.
I hear people say they want a certain breed, not a mutt. You can find almost any breed at a shelter or rescue group if you are patience. In fact, most of the breeds you see on the AKC website have rescue groups.
Before you head to a breeder (or WORSE pet store), please consider your local shelter. These animals deserve a chance to be part of your family.
Rescue Mommy
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
What is Heartworm Disease?
Brother Wolf has had a few dogs lately that have had heartworm disease. I was curious about what this meant so I headed to the Internet. I found a helpful website: heartwormsociety.org. The site is by the American Heartworm Society.
I warn you that some of the images on the site are graphic. It has a lot of information, though. Heartworms are prevalent in all 50 states. The site shows you which areas have a higher incidence of heartworm disease.
Heartworm disease is spread from the bite of a mosquito, which means even indoor-only pets like cats can contract the disease. After all, mosquitoes can find their way inside your house. The female releases her young (microfilariae) into the bloodstream of the infected animal. The worms look like spaghetti.
I was shocked to learn that the worms can live in the infected animal’s body for a really long time. The worms can live in cats for 2 to 3 years. In dogs, worms can live for 5 to 7 years!
I had heard that treatment is really tough for dogs. Now, I know why. During the recovery period, dogs must be restricted to either crate rest or very limited exercise because of the risk of pulmonary thromboembolism (blood clots).
I also learned that the disease cannot be transmitted from dog to dog, cat to cat, or animal to human contact. The only way the disease can be transmitted is through the bite of a mosquito.
The site is really informative and definitely encourages you to keep using those expensive heartworm preventative pills. Even if you do not have an infected pet, it is good to understand this very serious disease.
Rescue Mommy
I warn you that some of the images on the site are graphic. It has a lot of information, though. Heartworms are prevalent in all 50 states. The site shows you which areas have a higher incidence of heartworm disease.
Heartworm disease is spread from the bite of a mosquito, which means even indoor-only pets like cats can contract the disease. After all, mosquitoes can find their way inside your house. The female releases her young (microfilariae) into the bloodstream of the infected animal. The worms look like spaghetti.
I was shocked to learn that the worms can live in the infected animal’s body for a really long time. The worms can live in cats for 2 to 3 years. In dogs, worms can live for 5 to 7 years!
I had heard that treatment is really tough for dogs. Now, I know why. During the recovery period, dogs must be restricted to either crate rest or very limited exercise because of the risk of pulmonary thromboembolism (blood clots).
I also learned that the disease cannot be transmitted from dog to dog, cat to cat, or animal to human contact. The only way the disease can be transmitted is through the bite of a mosquito.
The site is really informative and definitely encourages you to keep using those expensive heartworm preventative pills. Even if you do not have an infected pet, it is good to understand this very serious disease.
Rescue Mommy
Monday, March 5, 2012
Brother Wolf Building Fund
Brother Wolf Animal Rescue is trying to raise $150,000 for a down payment on their building. If you have not visited their shelter, we can tell you it is a humble structure. They do not have a state-of-the-art facility. They are doing a fantastic job with the resources they have.
They deserve all the support we can give them. If you can spare a few dollars, they would appreciate it. Please visit their website at bwar.org.
Rescue Mommy and Daddy
They deserve all the support we can give them. If you can spare a few dollars, they would appreciate it. Please visit their website at bwar.org.
Rescue Mommy and Daddy
Friday, March 2, 2012
Puppy's First Year
We found this great article on the Doctors Foster and Smith website:
http://www.drsfostersmith.com/pic/article.cfm?c=3307&articleid=1449&d=155&category=607
It tells you what you can expect during your puppy’s first year. I particularly like the vaccination schedule. We have not had a puppy in ages. I had forgotten how many visits Angel has ahead of her.
If you are the proud parent to a new puppy, good luck!
Rescue Mommy
http://www.drsfostersmith.com/pic/article.cfm?c=3307&articleid=1449&d=155&category=607
It tells you what you can expect during your puppy’s first year. I particularly like the vaccination schedule. We have not had a puppy in ages. I had forgotten how many visits Angel has ahead of her.
If you are the proud parent to a new puppy, good luck!
Rescue Mommy
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