HOLIDAYS AND YOUR PETS

Holidays are a great time for family; parties, dinners and great gatherings. This can also be a great time for pets as well, if they aren't forgotten.

Every pet has different needs, sometimes they love the company and will hang right in the middle of the festivities, participating in the interaction with all their humans or sitting and watching all the activities from a safe corner. Other pets, just like humans, can't handle all the activity and may need a quiet room to be in while the biggest crowds are in the house. Other times, when their humans are shopping or visiting other friends, they may be left too long by themselves.

It's important to remember the pets are very much like small children; they rely on their humans completely and really don't understand when they are left alone, or made to do things they don't like.

Compassion, love and understanding is needed for our loving companions, especially during these extremely busy times of the year.

PETS IN THE HOUSEHOLD

Early in the 20th century, the majority of Americans considered cats and dogs as workers; they were herders, mousers, protectors. They worked on farms and ranches. They hunted, they retrieved.

But, as Americans began the move out of the great Plains and wilderness into the big cities, they had a choice to make; bring the dog and/or cat, or abandon them. Fortunately, enough people brought their smaller animals with them and soon dogs and cats became the pampered family members we know today.

Chocolate is a NO NO

Chocolate is toxic to both dogs and cats. While each specific animals will react differently depending on their body weight and tolerance, any amount can be lethal.

The problem with the chocolate humans eat is that many times it is combined with something pets may find irresistible, like peanut butter.

Keep these candies out of the reach of your pets, just as you would keep cleaning products away from toddlers.

If your pet does consume chocolate, call your vet or the nearest pet emergency center for instructions.

EXOTIC BIRDS

 

From the large Military Macaw to the tiny, bright-yellow canaries, birds can be both entertaining and fascinating companions.

 

They do require special care, but if you're committed, the rewards are endless.

 

Several birds, including parakeets, can be taught to talk or mimic words and sounds they hear often. Quite the conversation piece by itself when entertaining guests.

 

Parrots and Cockatoos enjoy interacting with the family, or their flock at it were, and will talk and mimic and be your "exercise partner" during your step-class, and dance with you when you're listening to the weekend Top 40.

 

Understand the commitment before taking an exotic bird into your home; such as veterinary fees may be more costly, the diseases more exotic and harder to treat, larger cages so the bird may spread it's wings and move around without feeling confined. The larger or nipping birds may not be handled by small children, and some birds may need more attention than your family dog, but you will also bond with the bird like no other animal and they can add color and life to an otherwise drab household.

ANIMALS IN FILMS AND HOMES

Animals cast in movies didn't always enjoy the protection today's actors have been provided by the Humane Society.

Early westerns often included stampede scenes with horses who were caused to stumble with trip wires and very often injured so badly had to be put down.

In the early days, people didn't always regard animals as feeling creatures. They worked alongside their human counterparts such as dogs herding sheep or cattle, cats who kept barns and fields free of mice and horses used for everything from basic transportation to plowing fields. They were expendable if there was enough money to replace them.

The concept of an animal as a "pet" was nearly unheard of prior to the 1930s. But with modernization also brought on an ease of living where animals, once used for work, were now rendered almost useless in that regard.

As people relocated from the rugged outdoors to the cities, they occasionally brought their animals with them. For the first time, dogs and cats were invited inside homes as companions instead of co-workers.

Instead of hunting for meat, people went to the local butcher. Instead of plowing fields, people went to their neighborhood grocery store.

People began bonding with the animals in a completely different way, raising awareness that they are feeling creatures who can can experience both joy and pain, fear and happiness and, as nearly every owner of a companion pet can attest, a devotion than can be unparalleled anywhere.

QUALITY TIME

Like people, pets need some "down time." While they don't necessary have the same stresses their humans have, they still have stresses that need to be managed.

Most pets are left home while their humans are at work and the joy they show when the human comes home is honest relief and happiness that they're no longer alone.

Spending time playing, grooming or just hanging out will ease that stress. Even talking to them while you're preparing dinner or doing chores will make them feel a part of things.

But don't worry, the stress normally eases fairly quickly and your pet will move on to some other distraction, like that tennis ball that rolled behind the couch or that fly that keeps buzzing incessantly around the kitchen and you will be free to read your book or watch TV in peace...until dinner time.

ADOPTION

Adoption versus a breeder.

Depending on what you are looking for, either to show purebred animals, or just have a companion, both are valid ways to acquire pets.

However, this author recommends adoption. Why? Breeding has altered breeds with extensive in-breeding over the course of many years resulting in many problems, such as hip-dysplasia in larger dogs and breathing problems of the poor pug-nosed cats due to the "smashed-in" face look that many judges look for. This author isn't sure when "runny-eyes" become a valid point in judging at these types of shows, but I've resolved myself that it is, and will remain, an unexplained mystery.

While breeders are becoming more responsible in recent years, they still have to compete in the show ring for their living, so unless you are looking at earning a living with purebred animals, I suggest adoption first and foremost.

Some animals may have personality issues for one reason or another due to their past history which ended them up in the shelter, however, many issues can be overcome with gentle love and training. Remember the shelter will typically check the eligibility of any animal to be re-homed and work with them if there are issues prior to putting them up for adoption.

Try shelters local to your home and you will surely find a pet, or pets, who will be a perfect fit for you and your family.

HEALTH

Can petting your cat or dog actually help reduce stress?

Many studies have been done which links stress reduction, improving blood pressure and increased dopamin  and serotonin levels in some people just by petting or playing with dogs and cats over a period of time.

While these studies have not been evaluated by the  Food and Drug Administration, you can do your own study. Adopt a cat or dog and spend time with them and see if your health numbers are improve. Or just ask yourself, are you just happier when your cat is purring or your doggy is jumping for joy when your come through the front door after work.

VETERINARY CARE

Selection of a good vet is just as important as selecting a doctor for yourself or your family. Ask around first. Friends, family and even co-workers may have a good and reliable vet they see consistently, but in any case, 1 good word-of-mouth review is better than 25 "likes" on social networks.

Stick with one veterinarian if at all possible. Emergency care can throw a wrench in the works, but regular check-ups and follow-ups will go much faster and be much more consistent if you are seeing the same person who is familiar with your pet and her individual needs.

Regular check-ups are important as well. Just as you would get a yearly physical, your pet is growing, aging and changing as well. Keeping abreast of any changes that may require attention can help your pet enjoy a long, healthy and happy life.

SUMMER

As hot weather approaches, it is extremely important to allow your pets access to plenty of water throughout the day and night.

As most animals, cats and dogs included, cannot sweat except through their mouths and the pads of their feet, they pant, seek shade and cool spots, and drink water to control their body temperatures.

Dehydrated animals will binge on water all at once, which can cause painful stomach cramps, producing vomiting and further dehydrating a thirsty, overheated pet.

But small drinks through the day will allow your pet to regulate their own intake and ensure they stay healthy and happy.