Dog Poop. Fecal matter that can cause illness

It has been a long and very hot summer. More pet owners walking and running and more dogs and more dogs and more dogs than ever using the bathroom on city streets, yards and apartment pet area's. I am always amazed at the number of pet owners who will not pickup after their dogs.

It is sickening. No, I really mean it. It is sickening. Being a professional dog handler and care giver, I visit upscale condo's everyday only to be greeted by the stench of urine and fecal matter.

I am not really sure how the apartment and high-rise owners get by with it. Not only is it unhealthy for the residents and their pets, I can't imagine being shown a property, walking into a court yard and being greeted by that ungodly stench.

I wanted to share this article I found sometime ago. I hope this will give you insight into just how horrible and unhealthy this problem can be and what can develop from the lack of control

Far from Fertilizer Woof-woof waste does not a good fertilizer make. It is actually toxic to your lawn, causing burns and unsightly discoloring. Beyond your grass, it has been estimated that a single gram of dog waste can contain 23 million fecal coliform bacteria, which are known to cause cramps, diarrhea, intestinal illness, and serious kidney disorders in humans. EPA even estimates that two or three days’ worth of droppings from a population of about 100 dogs would contribute enough bacteria to temporarily close a bay, and all watershed areas within 20 miles of it, to swimming and shell fishing. Dog feces are one of the most common carriers of the following diseases: Heartworms Whipworms Hookworms Roundworms Tapeworms Parvo Corona Giardiasis Salmonellosis Cryptosporidiosis Campylobacteriosis For example, in the Four Mile Run watershed in Northern Virginia, a dog population of 11,400 is estimated to contribute about 5,000 pounds of solid waste every day and has been identified as a major contributor of bacteria to the stream. Nearly 500 fecal coliform samples have been taken from Four Mile Run and its tributaries since 1990, and about 50 percent of these samples have exceeded the Virginia State water quality standard for fecal coliform bacteria, according to EPA. Why all this fanfare for feces, you may ask? Well, EPA explains that the decay of your pet’s waste actually creates nutrients for weeds and algae that grow in the waterways. As these organisms thrive on your dog’s droppings, they overtake the water in a “Little Shop of Horrors-esque” manner, and limit the amount of light that can penetrate the water’s surface. As a result, oxygen levels in the water decrease, and the fish and seafood we eat can be asphyxiated, EPA says. A Toxic Cycle If you aren’t worried about the state of your local waterways, you may be a bit more concerned about the impact of dog waste a little closer to home. The thing about persistently disposing of stools improperly (or not at all) is that it kicks off a harmful cycle that can affect your whole family—including your pet. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), pet droppings can contribute to diseases animals pass to humans, called zoonoses. When infected dog poop is deposited on your lawn, the eggs of certain roundworms and other parasites can linger in your soil for years. Anyone who comes into contact with that soil—be it through gardening, playing sports, walking barefoot or any other means—runs the risk of coming into contact with those eggs; especially your dog. Some of the hard-to-pronounce parasites your lawn could harbor include Cryptosporidium, Giardia, Salmonella, as well as hookworms, ringworms and tapeworms. Infections from these bugs often cause fever, muscle aches, headache, vomiting, and diarrhea in humans. Children are most susceptible, since they often play in the dirt and put things in their mouths or eyes. What You Can Do If you are far too harried to keep vigilant watch over your dog’s leftovers, you may want to hire a pooper-scooper company to manage the dog waste. EPA discovered from a survey that 40 percent of the people who live in the area immediately surrounding the Chesapeake Bay—which experienced significant pollution throughout much of the 1990s—did not pick up after their dogs because it was “too much work.” Others neglected to do so because they assumed it eventually goes away, or because the dog deposited the feces in an area far from the water, such as in the owner’s yard or in the woods. For all of these reasons, EPA says, “The reluctance of many residents to handle dog waste is the biggest limitation to controlling pet waste.” So, in essence, the cycle begins and ends with you. In the instance of the Chesapeake Bay survey, 44 percent of dog walkers who did not pick up after their dogs indicated they would still refuse to pick up—even if confronted by complaints from neighbors, threatened with fines, or provided with more sanitary and convenient options for retrieving and disposing of dog waste. Perhaps if they knew there were services designed to put poop at their disposal, they would not let Rover’s relief become their neighbors’ nuisance. Sources Environmental Protection Agency U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Whole Earth magazine, Spring 1999 Excerpted from Let it Rot!: The Gardener’s Guide to Composting, Stu Campbell. Third edition, 1998. 153 PP. Storey Books.

Pet Food Recall Alert for your dog

One thing I always stay on top of is the quality of the food I feed my dogs. I am frequently asked about diet and nutrition for my clients pets. While I am not a certified nutritionist and there are a lot of "Know It Alls" who believe their pet food is the answer, it is important to educate yourself and to stay aware of the content of what you feed your pet. I am a big fan of Origins food products and recently decided, at the suggestion of Cynthia Herman owner of Fetch in West Lake Hills, to try "Before B.G. Grain". It is a good idea to try a little change, once in a while, in your dogs diet especially if your pup has allergy issues. Of course, you wouldn't want to eat pasta and sauce every night would you.

I truly hope you will stay away from the generic kibble you find on the grocery store shelf. I an finding more and more pets that are suffering or have suffered intestinal issues and even cancer because of poor choices in pet food. Here is a page I found to be helpful, k-9 intestinal problems.

I am not out to scare you but I do want to keep you informed.

Pet food recall Alert June 2oth

Dog Food Dangers for Pets and Owners

Possible Salmonella contamination of dog food brought a recall Friday from a California company.

Natural Balance Pet Foods Inc. recalled its Natural Balance Sweet Potato & Chicken Dry Dog Food with the "Best By" date of June 17, 2011, in 5-lb. and 28-lb. bags because of the potential it is contaminated with Salmonella.

The recall was issued after a sample in a routine test conducted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) came back positive for Salmonella.

No illnesses have yet been associated with the recall.

The recalled product was manufactured on Dec.17, 2009.

Salmonella in dry pet food can infect both humans and animals.

For humans, symptoms of Salmonella include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping, and fever.

More serious ailments including arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract problems. Anyone exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their healthcare providers.

Pets with Salmonella infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. Some pets will have only decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain.

Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.

Recalled products were only distributed in pet specialty stores in the states of Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Washington, Wisconsin and Wyoming.

Consumers who have purchased Natural Balance Sweet Potato & Chicken Dry Dog formula with the "Best By" date of June 17, 2011, are urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund.

For additional information, please contact Natural Balance Pet Foods Customer Service at (800) 829-4493 (8a.m. - 5p.m., PDT) or by visiting www.naturalbalanceinc.com.

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Dog Food, Nutrition The Good and The Bad

I love cheeseburgers and have all my life. I’m sure my dog would too if that is what was offered every day. One could argue that it is a well balanced meal considering there are grains in the bun, protein in the meat, and of course the vegetables in the lettuce and tomatoes.

But how well balanced would it be if that is what I ate every single day? Morning and night, day after day. A cheeseburger. Ridiculous huh…. most dogs get worse than that. The same heat processed food day after day, year after year. No nutrition left in it at all.

Doesn’t matter if it’s organic, holistic or or what is in it the idea that one food can provide a 100% balanced diet for your dog is really sort of crazy when one thinks about it in those terms. The fact that the major dog food companies also heat produce all their food in the process of manufacturing, taking any shred of nutrition out of it is even more disturbing.

As someone who is into fitness and health for people and dogs, I realize how important what you eat everyday is to long term health. It plays a big part in how well you feel everyday. So why wouldn’t it be true for your dog as well?

Dog Food Industry

The pet food industry is a 16 billion dollar a year game and you can bet that those companies using the biggest marketing dollars to attract your conscious dog food choices aren’t worried so much about the health of your dog. The bottom line is profits. You can read more on some of the major dog food companies and it may surprise you in What’s In Your Dog’s Dinner – The Truth About Dog Food

Variety is the Key to Dog Food Balance

One of the things that has always bothered me about the protocol for feeding dogs these days is the fact that most people find a dog food that they believe is a good choice and then feed the same exact flavor week after week, month after month and year after year. Back to the cheeseburger theory, no matter how much you like cheeseburgers or how good they are for you really, how balanced to you think it could be for you if that was all you ate? Even if it came fortified with extra vitamins and minerals you can see the limitations on the concept of balance.

If you care about your dog’s health and longevity, you should care about what kind of food is being consumed as well. Don’t be afraid to put some real food in your dog’s dish along with a quality kibble that offers variety, isn’t heat processed cooking all the good stuff out of it, and is produced somewhere besides one of the big name conglomerates like Procter and Gamble, Del Monte, or Colgate-Palmalive.

Simply being able to order a variety of foods to change the menu for your dog every couple of weeks or just a little something different every few days has got to be a good thing.

I think this article has great value. I can imagine how important your dogs health and life span is to you. I would like to hear your comments so please write. gerry@austincitypaws.com and visit the website austincitypaws.com.

Happy Cheese Burgers!

Gerry

When Pets Get Lost

Losing your pet can be a down right heart stopper. Just this past weekend I received a call on my cell. The caller said, "I think I have your dogs." That is enough to cause shear panic. Why would this person have my dogs, I just left them and they were fine. It turns out that Missy and Duke found that the gate, at my girlfriends home, was not secure and made the great escape. I was very thankful to the person who actually stopped their car and took the time to collect them and call me but I am really thankful that they both had identification tags. Of course, both of them are chipped but having contact information on the pet is extremely important. There are many reasons pets get lost. Here is is "Ten of the main reasons you can lose your pet."

With summer upon us there will be many opportunities to be separated from your pet. This is a good time to check and make sure that your dog or cat has proper identification displayed on its collar. Make that extra effort. Invest in a good tag or collar that features a plate to engrave your pets name and most important your contact information. Two of my favorite locations to get a quality name tag or collar are Fetch in Westlake Hills. Cynthia is an awesome person and is very helpful in choosing quality merchandise. Another good shop is Dogadillo in Bee Cave. The Conrads are great folks and always have a variety of collars, tags and other pet supplies.

And then there is chipping. Granted, if someone finds your pet it is important that the proper identification is displayed on the dog but, having your dog chipped is the best investment you can make and the return will be invaluable. There are several companies that offer this service including most all vets. Getting your dog or cat chipped costs next to nothing and I have heard of some very happy endings all because the owner took the time to have the animal chipped. Scanning for a chip is one of the first things a vet or shelter will do when your pet is found and turned in as a stray.

So, if you haven't already, put these at the top of your summer to do list. Hopefully, you WILL get that call, "I think I have your Dog." Sounds a little scary but as a pet owner, it will be music to your ears and you will be glad your pet had the proper identification.

What to do in a Pet Emergency

Staying calm during pet emergency is best advice for pet owners and caregivers

According to Veterinary Pet Insurance (VPI), 92 percent of animals will experience an emergency during their lifetime. Perhaps just as important is information from the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), which reports that 25 percent more pets would survive if just one pet first aid technique were applied prior to getting emergency veterinary care.

Rob Nager, owner of Decadent Dog in Needham, MA, and certified PetTech™ CPR and first aid instructor, believes that the most important thing for pet owners to be aware of is that pet CPR and first aid classes exist.

“In my experience, most pet owners just aren’t aware that they can spend four hours learning crucial techniques that may someday help them save the life of their beloved pet,” Nager said. “In any emergency, feeling helpless is excruciating and, because of pet CPR and first aid classes, unnecessary.”

According to Nager, Pet Sitters International’s 2008 Pet Sitter of the Year™, abrasions and choking are the two most frequent pet injuries he encounters.

“Dogs are usually eager to make the most of their outside time by running and playing with reckless abandon,” he said, “but unfortunately the world is filled with rocks, sticks, trees, broken glass, pieces of metal and other sharp objects that can quickly puncture or cut the pads of their feet. Additionally, dogs and cats are both prone to choking hazards by eating too quickly and from swallowing toys, balls, string, tinsel, bones and biscuits.”

Simple first-aid procedures can make the difference between life and death. Nager recommends that all pet owners and pet-care givers know how to perform rescue breathing and/or CPR, as well as be able to respond effectively to bleeding, poisoning and injuries such as heatstroke and frostbite.

The best piece of advice Nager gives pet owners is to stay calm when dealing with a pet emergency.

“By taking a deep breath when you first discover an injured pet, you are more able to assess the situation and react with safety as you put your knowledge and experience into action,” he said.

Nager says that becoming a certified CPR and first aid instructor has been enormously beneficial to his business.

“I’ve earned the respect of my clients, staff and other pet professionals like veterinarians, groomers, trainers and pet-store owners in the Boston area,” he said. “By being PetTech™ certified, I have earned a level of credibility as a knowledgeable professional within my community. There is no doubt in my mind that this knowledge helped our company achieve solid growth last year in a down economy.”

The decision to become certified in CPR and pet first aid was an easy one for Nager.

“As a pet sitter, the health and well-being of my clients’ pets are in my hands,” he said. “My first priority and pledge to every one of my clients is that I will do everything I can to keep their pets safe.”

I want to acknowledge Rob Nager for for his contribution to this blog. If you have any questions regarding training please write or call me and I will be glad to direct you to class information.

austincitypaws.com write gerry@austincitypaws.com or call 512-699-0000

Heat Stroke and Your Dog

It Happens Every Year. Heat is more than just dangerous for your dogs.

Heat stroke in dogs is a life-threatening situation. When your dog's body temperature rises too high, numerous organs can become damaged. The most important organs put at risk include the heart, liver, kidneys, and brain. Canine heat stroke usually affects older or overweight dogs. Those that are less than six months old are also at risk. Also, dogs that have a heavy or dark coat are more at risk.

Causes

Your dog's body temperature should be between 100 and 102.5 Fahrenheit. Various factors can cause it to rise. Heat stroke is normally brought about when dogs are locked in parked cars or other areas with little ventilation. In addition to heat and poor ventilation, excessive humidity or muscular activity can cause heat stroke in dogs. Other factors that increase your dog's risk are his weight and age.

Symptoms

Canine heat stroke can bring about a range of symptoms. In the early stages of the stroke, your dog will start to salivate excessively. As the condition gets worse, his gums will turn dry and turn dark pink. Most dogs also experience weakness, diarrhea, and vomiting. Your dog's heart rate will also rise which will cause him to pant much more than normal.

Treatment

It is very important to treat heat stroke in dogs as soon as possible. Failure to treat the condition promptly can cause chronic problems in the future or even death. Your dog's body temperature needs to be lowered quickly. If you choose to take him to a vet immediately, you should put some ice packs on your dog to help lower the temper
ature. At the very least, you should roll down the windows or use the air conditioner on the drive to the veterinarian's office.

Treatment involves administering fluids intravenously. As mentioned earlier, canine heat stroke can cause damage to various organs such as the liver and kidneys. Therefore, the veterinarian will monitor your dog's liver and kidney function for a few days after the stroke.

Prevention

There are a few important things you can do to prevent heat stroke in dogs. Most importantly, you should never lock your dog in the car on a hot, sunny day for too long. If you leave your dog in the car, make sure the windows are rolled down far enough to provide plenty of ventilation. Also, if your dog is outside on hot days, make sure he has plenty of water to drink so he doesn't become dehydrated.

Heat stroke in dogs is very serious. There are also a variety of other illnesses that you should know about as a dog owner, such as canine congestive heart failure So, be a responsible dog owner and stop by dog-illnesses.com today to read about conditions such as canine heartworm disease.

DID YOUR PET COME WITH EMOTIONAL BAGGAGE?

OK, be honest how many of you sometimes loath your pet. I mean really get to the end of your rope?

Dogs chewing through table legs. Cats diving for the family dinner. Biting cockatiels. At a time when many people are scrimping on themselves to indulge their animals, the love is lost for owners of infuriating pets.

Still, many cannot bring themselves to dump their wayward animals in shelters. Instead, they pay sky-high vet bills for intervention that does not work. They endure in-your-face barking rants in the middle of the night or are startled awake by the routine hacking of hairballs.

Some wish out loud their pets would just run away.

When Cherie Miller's 16-year-old cat, Kitty, goes out, he wants in. When he is in, he wants out. He whines relentlessly and refuses to eat unless a human stirs the kibble around in his self-feeder. The family calls it "whooshing."

"When it scratches on the bedroom door at 3:21 a.m. to have its food whooshed, it's enticing to imagine creative ways to ditch this cat. I'm a pet lover, but come on," said Miller, who lives in suburban Atlanta, Georgia, and was inspired to start a blog about pesky pets called pet-peeves.org.

So how does a human make peace with a problem pet? Venting helps, said an expert, though the griping may be more emotionally complicated for the humans involved.

"We all know couples who look like they like to fight. They let fights happen because, it seems, they're getting something out of it. Some people have that relationship with their pets," said psychologist Stephanie LaFarge, who specializes in the human-animal bond as senior director of counseling services at the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

"Some people like to think they love their animals so much they are willing to be victimized by them," she said. "It's proof of how much they love that animal and proof of what a good animal person they are and what a good person they are. It's part of their identity."

There is no national clearinghouse for where and how people acquire their pets, but about 63 percent of all U.S. households have at least one, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association. Ten to 20 percent of cats and dogs come from shelters and rescue organizations, sometimes arriving in well-meaning homes with heavy emotional baggage.

So how do we start to address some of these wild neurotic pet issues? First and most important when bringing a pet into your household, learn more about the pets background or previous home. Rescue organizations usually do their best to obtain history from the previous owner and being responsible, they will give you a 30 day window to adjust to the pet and its habits. There is a rescue for just about every breed of animal but first try and learn as much about the breed or culture of a pet before you buy or adopt one. If you find yourself in a position where you have to deal with a dog, for instance, that has behavioral issues or neurotic tendency's, there are some great trainers in the Austin area. Depending on your budget and love for the dog. One of my favorite organizations that deal in rescue and training is The Austin Dog Alliance. They work very hard to find good homes for good dogs and they will work with you to address any bad habits and offer training to develop good manners. If you want to board and train the folks at Dog Boy Ranch offer extensive on site training at their facility. If you want the trainer to come to you I would suggest Steve Haynes, Fidelio Dog Works. Steve is an awesome trainer and though a little on the upside of ones budget, he offers first class training and you will not be dissatisfied with his results. Remember, no matter which form of training you go with, the home work is up to you. The trainer is not a nanny. You have to become the pack leader.

You can never predict an animal's behavior in a home 100 percent. To some extent, every adopter is expected to roll with the punches a little bit, to know that animals, like children, come with their personae and sometimes come with the sniffles and sometimes they might develop personality traits that we wouldn't have put on top of our list.

It never ceases to amaze me. I see it in most every home and client I work with. The human bond with a pet is one of life's greatest pleasures. Do your best to pick a pet that fits your lifestyle. If you run into an issue get help from a professional. If you need further advice pick up the phone and call me or email me. gerry@austincitypaws.com (512) 699-0000. I will be glad to point you in the right direction.

Your comments and responses are always welcome.

Have a great week.

THE HISTORY OF THE MIGHT TEXAS DOG WALK

It is the biggest dog gathering in the United States and of course Texas!

Talk about your dog shows. Not only is the event dedicated to a great cause, you will see every breed and some incredible costumes.

You can visit the website and sign up. Participates and their parents come from all over Texas, the United States and the world. Now ours isn't the biggest in the world. This year should be the bone breaker last year the Brits had a gathering of over 10,000 while here in Austin the record turn out last year was a dog hair over 8,000.

Get a FREE copy of Haute Dog Magazine and look for our Austin City Paws profile and ad.

Keep the ad and get 10% off your next in-home visits.

Can Your Dog Text? Might as well!

You will soon be able to track your dog's location on your mobile phone or computer.

AT&T Wireless and location-technology company Apisphere announced they will produce an animal collar that lets owners trace their pet's movements. The collar contains a wireless SIM card that transmits location data across AT&T's wireless network directly to a wireless handset or personal computer.

Owners need to register their pets before they start using the collar. Owners can establish a so-called "geo-fence" around the home, in which the pet can roam freely. Through the tracking software, owners can continuously watch their pets' movements within the virtual fence, or locate them should they leave the established boundaries.

The software transmits street-level data. Owners will have the option to program text, e-mail, video or audio alerts.

The companies say the collar is designed to be used on animals of any weight or neck size.

The collar is expected to available later this year.

Natural-Holistic Diets for Your Dog.

I have had so many of my clients ask my opinion on the proper diet for your dog. Intestinal cancers and related digestive problems are very common in pets. It really is all about what you feed your pooch. The National Canine Cancer Foundation is a great source of information about your dogs diet and health. Did you know that flax seed oil is a great way to improve your dogs health. Find out more on their site.

Have a great Easter Weekend and keep those eggs away from you pets.

Scratching and Itching Thought the Ages

The astonishing, weird and sometimes dangerous flea and tick, produces and egg every hour.

I am sure we all know that dogs have been around for thousands of years but we probably don't think about the pesky flea or the ugly tick. You have to wonder, was there really a Prehistoric Flea ?

A hard freeze really helps curb the flea and tick population. We were fortunate to have several this year but I want to remind you freeze or no freeze you need to take precautions and protect your pets. As you will read, we are a lot luckier than the pet owners of long ago.

Fleas and ticks had a several-million-year head start when prehistoric canines and humans appeared on the evolutionary scene. Back then, we probably scratched, chewed and picked ourselves to distraction to dislodge these tenacious pests. Today, more than 2,500 different flea species have specialized their efforts for every warm-blooded land animal. I am sure we all know that dogs have been around for thousands of years but we probably don't think about the pesky flea or the ugly tick. You have to wonder, was there really a Prehistoric Flea ?

According to the Hutchinson’s Dog Encyclopedia (Walter Hutchinson, 1935), each flea species generally confines its attention to its particular host. However, dog fleas can be found on humans and vice versa. The dog flea (Ctenocephalides canis) and the human flea (Pulex irritans) are rare. Ninety-five percent of fleas on dogs are Ctenocephalides felis, the cat flea.

Nancy Hinkle, Ph.D., professor of entomology at the University of Georgia in Athens, wrote her doctoral dissertation on fleas, and has published 12 scientific articles and authored 10 book chapters on them. “This [cat] flea has a very wide host range,” Hinkle says. “It does well on all felids and canids. Once it finds a host, it never leaves, and females produce an egg every hour.”

That’s the good news. According to University of Florida veterinary entomology researcher Phillip E. Kaufman, Ph.D., “The cat flea really is only one flea to worry about, but ticks are diverse. In general, fleas are easier to control.”

Humans obviously had no idea what they were confronting when they began battling these pests in 2500 B.C. Pesticide concoctions appear in the earliest recorded history of China, Sumer and Egypt. Domestic dogs were kept as house pets by all these ancient cultures. This newly popular arrangement intensified problems, although it would be centuries before effective control measures emerged.

Makes you itch? Todays tick and flea applications are a blessing to our animals. I hope you have your pet protected as we get into the spring and summer. I suggest you use them year around. Don't be mistaken thinking that scratching is the result of dry skin. Granted, some pets suffer from skin allergies but better safe than sorry. Keep your pet protected.

Next week a lesson in basic house breaking. Your pups house broken, isn't it.

Don't forget to check out all the latest pet news on my site and book your vacations now and save 10%.

"Hug That Pet"

Don't Lose Sleep Over Your Dog

What's warm, soft and on your dogs top 5 list of favorite places to be? No, its not your lap, its your bed!

According to experts, not only does allowing your dog to sleep in the bed with you have a negative impact on maintaining your leadership role in the household, it can also have a negative affect on other pets in the household. Granting your dog a space in your bed places him on a equal plane with you, meaning he will challenge your authority more often, and a higher plane with other pets in the home—pets that should to be treated equally.

My snuggling, snoring, licking partner, and no, I am not married, dominates the sheets. I start out with good intentions, both dogs on their beds, lights out but then, after I am asleep, Duke sneaks slowly across the sheets and finds his place next to my pillow. Not only does this interrupt my sleep cycle, when you allow your dog to sleep in the bed with you, you are also allowing your dog to bring a host of dirt, bacteria and other substances from outdoors right into bed with you. Most professionals would agree that this practice is very unhygienic. I will be the first to admit, I brush and groom as good as the next guy but that still won't prevent the

hitchhiking critters from joining the sleepover. Not only can you body suffer from bacteria, but any conflict between your and your dog's sleep cycles, or the sound of your dog's snoring or his movement on the bed, can prevent you from getting the deep, sustained sleep you need.

How can you break this cycle ? Provide a dog bed or blanket that fills his need for a comfortable night's sleep. If his issue is that he misses your companionship, give him a few extra-special "good night" toys to distract him from loneliness. The final step is teaching your dog where he should sleep at night. When you remove a behavior from your dog's repertoire — whether it's digging, barking, or jumping on the bed — you're creating a hole in his routine. If you don't fill the hole with something you want him to do, he'll replace it with something equally entertaining. To him. So if you only teach him not to jump on your bed at night, he may decide to hop up on someone else's bed. Worse, he may become restless and decide to take up chewing as his newest hobby. Prevention is the key here.

By the way, I would love to see pictures of your sleeping pups. They sleep in some pretty strange positions and places. I am going to start a pooch picture page and I need to see your best pet entries. Email them to gerry@austincitypaws.com .

Write with your comments and bed times stories. Maybe even some suggestions to share with our readers.

Funniest House Rules for your Dogs and Cats

Last week, I blogged about the serious side of depression and your dog. This week I decided to lighten up and pass along one of the funniest parent to pet letters I have ever read.

I got the following in one of my endless “joke of the day” emails.

To be posted VERY LOW on the refrigerator door – nose height.

Dear Dogs and Cats,

The dishes with the paw print are yours and contain your food. The other dishes are mine and contain my food. Please note, placing a paw print in the middle of my plate of food does not stake a claim for it becoming your food and dish, nor do I find that aesthetically pleasing in the slightest.

The stairway was not designed by NASCAR and is not a racetrack. Beating me to the bottom is not the object. Tripping me doesn’t help because I fall faster than you can run.

I cannot buy anything bigger than a king sized bed. I am very sorry about this. Do not think I will continue sleeping on the couch to ensure your comfort. Dogs and cats can actually curl up in a ball when they sleep. It is not necessary to sleep perpendicular to each other stretched out to the fullest extent possible. I also know that sticking tails straight out and having tongues hanging out the other end to maximize space is nothing but sarcasm.

For the last time, there is not a secret exit from the bathroom. If by some miracle I beat you there and manage to get the door shut, it is not necessary to claw, whine, meow, try to turn the knob or get your paw under the edge and try to pull the door open. I must exit through the same door I entered. Also, I have been using the bathroom for years — canine or feline attendance is not required.

The proper order is kiss me, then go smell the other dog or cat’s butt. I cannot stress this enough!

To pacify you, my dear pets, I have posted the following message on our front door:

To All Non-Pet Owners Who Visit & Like to Complain About Our Pets:

1. They live here. You don’t.
2. If you don’t want their hair on your clothes, stay off the furniture. (That’s why they call it ‘fur’niture’.)
3. I like my pets a lot better than I like most people.
4. To you, it’s an animal. To me, he/she is an adopted son/daughter who is short, hairy, walks on all fours and doesn’t speak clearly.

Remember: In many ways, dogs and cats are better than kids because they:

1. Eat less.
2. Don’t ask for money all the time.
3. Are easier to train.
4. Normally come when called.
5. Never ask to drive the car.
6. Don’t hang out with drug-using friends.
7. Don’t smoke or drink.
8. Don’t have to buy the latest fashions.
9. Don’t want to wear your clothes.
10. Don’t need a ‘gazillion’ dollars for college.

And finally,

11. If they get pregnant, you can sell their children.

Signs of Depression in your Dog and How to help

I am sure you have seen it in their eyes. Your gonna leave aren't you!

For most of us it is hard to leave our pets and head off to work or other activities. We get the look and then think, "This dog really knows how to
pull my strings."
When I got into the pet services business I had no idea how lonely and board our dogs can get while we are away. In some cases getting a play mate is a great idea. All dogs love company. Socializing takes the pain out of being alone. Not all dogs have the advantage of having a playmate or having someone at home most of the day. That sad look you get could be a sign of depression. Being alone isn't always the cause of depression. There are a lot of anxiety's in a dogs world today. If you notice your canine companion exhibiting dog depression symptoms, it's possible that your pet is experiencing anxiety or temporary depression due to a recent event. However, it's also possible that the symptoms you are observing could be a sign that something else is going on with your pet, such as a physical illness or chemical imbalance. When you notice your dog exhibiting signs of depression, consider whether or not something has occurred recently that could impact his or her mood. If not, or if the symptoms last for an extended period of time, it's advisable to take your dog to the veterinarian.

Signs of depression include;

* Lethargy
* Excessive sleep
* Being clingy
* Loss of appetite
* Change in personality
*Whining
* Weight loss

In most cases the sadness you see is just that sadness. Our canine friends whole world can revolve around us. while very different from us dogs are strikingly similar to people in many ways. A case of the blues, and even outright depression, is but one more malady we share. As humans, we can rationalize our feelings, try to understand them, and seek a way out. Our dogs aren't so lucky. They often need our help, and our love and involvement, to break out of the cycle.

It sounds trite, but usually what your dog needs is love and affection. They may not just snap out of it on their own, but given a little effort and patience, they can regain their emotional footing. Here are some things you can do to help:

Set aside more time together for play. If your dog isn't normally an active player, take more frequent walks outside, or devote more time to another favorite activity.
Buy some engaging new toys--a cube that releases dog food when played with, for example.
Take a trip to the park to see other dogs, or go for a ride in the car. (If your dog's a nervous traveler or only associates the car with a trip to the vet or the kennel, obviously this might not be a great idea).
If your dog has lost a pet companion, consider getting another. Another option is to call a neighbor with a dog and set up a play date.
If you leave your dog home alone during the day, consider a cage-free daycare (if their normally sociable), or hire a dog sitter to walk them.
Sit on the floor at night while you watch TV, rather than in a chair. Getting down on her level could be just the interaction she's looking for.

Don't expect miracles. Be patient. It may take a few days, or it may take considerably longer for your dog to return to his or her normal self. One thing is certain: you are the best companion they have, and the most important one during this time.

Love to hear your thoughts and may be some of the remedies you have used to bring your pup around. Leave your comments below or email me with your story.

Dog Tips, Car Trips and Car Safety

Have you ever seen this look of terror in your dogs eyes?

Let's hope not! You may not think about it, but in an emergency stop, your dog can become a flying object. If your dog rides in the front seat, it may be cute but it is not smart. There are two things that can cause severe injuries.

First, there is the airbag. Any small person or, in this case, your dog can suffer injuries when the airbag deploys. The standards for small children also apply to your pet. There are some great sources for safety devices for your pet.

Second, your dog can be seriously injured in a collision or sudden stop if thrown into the windshield. Here are some numbers you need to consider. 60% of all pets that are involved in accidents while riding in a car suffer from permanent injuries. That can get expensive considering that car insurance does not cover the cost of treating or caring for a pet.

If you love your dog or pet as much as I love and value mine, take precautions to protect them when they are riding with you. Never - and I repeat - never transport your dog or other animals in the back of a pickup truck unless they are secured from falling out or being thrown out in an emergency situation. Personally, I think it is a good idea to obtain pet insurance. Most pet policies can cover these types of injuries.

On a lighter note, I attended the open house at the Austin Dog Alliance this weekend. Debi Krakar and her staff have had an awesome year. The folks at ADA offer several great services for dog owners. Looking to adopt or rescue a dog? They have the skills and resources to help. Visit their site and check out the calendar of events.

Have you purchased pet insurance or had a pet that might have been injured in an auto accident? I hear miracle stories all the time and I would like to share yours with my readers. Leave a comment below or email me with your story.

Let's hope for more sunshine and dog park weather! Stay safe and have a wonderful day.

Pets Win Big on Valentines Day

Ok, due to economic issues the American consumer will spend 3.7%

less on Valentines Day this year. But wait, the American pet owner

is expected to spend 2.7% more on their pets this Valentines Day than last year.

Pets more popular than your main squeeze? I decided to do some

investigating. Here is what I found.

It seems the depressed economy has had an ill effect on love. There

were more breakups in 2009 than in recent years. This seems to have been influenced by job loss. Breakups occurred when one in the love relationship lost a job and either had to move or fell into an obis of depression. Money has a tendency to effect relationships without hard times but the last 18 months has really taken its toll on love.

Enter the pet. Reliable, affectionate and loyal no matter what the situation. This excludes fish. Lets face it they are very hard to hug. This years big winner in the hunt for the perfect Valentines Day gift for the pet, Heart shape pillows, didn't you get one of those for HER last year? Not this time around, she got one for her dog. A big runner up, treats and yes, they can be shaped like a heart and covered in what appears to be chocolate. Last but not leash, a new heart collar. Red of course. They say that "Love Conquers All." That is not the case this year. Love lost pets win. Its a fact your pup or kitty would be happy just to play with the bow.

I want to hear about that special gift you bought for your pet this Valentines Day so drop me an email and send along a picture. I will post them on the website. If we get some good ones we will do a post Valentine Pet Photo contest. I will keep you posted as to any and all response. If you don't have a pet, get one or get a friend, who has a pet, to enter. This should be fun. Deadline will be Valentines Day.

Taking a ski vacation or know of someone who has pets that is? Ski care free knowing your pets

are being cared for with lots of love and hugs. Contact us to set up your in-home pet care while

you ski.

Gerry

Don't Waste A Good Dog

One of the things that I find to be common among the dogs that I care for is lack of exercise.

There are so many breeds, both large and small, that are working dogs. As a matter of fact 70% of all dogs owned in America have a working dog heritage. These dogs have been blended into our culture to become pets and that is the way we treat them but, they they are so much more.

Imagine owning a beautiful shiny Corvette. There it is, in all of its glory, sitting in your garage ready to get out there and perform. But wait! You would rather wash and wax it than take it out and let it do what it was built to do, perform. Would you just put your new Corvette up on blocks in your garage for all the world to see? I think not. So, why treat your dog that way?

I have to laugh because as I am writing this I am listening to loud snores coming from my Vizsla who is sleeping in the next room. But seriously, it is so important that your pet, working or non-working, get out and run, socialize and do what dogs are supposed to do. If you own a dog that comes from a working breed lineage it is your responsibility to help him or her have a happier, healthier life. Don't stick your dog in a closet and let boredom eat away at what could be an exciting life.

Here is a prime example of how a chewer was transformed into a performer.

Meet Hunter, a rescue dog on the job in Haiti.

Hunter, a certified and trained Search and Rescue Dog, is a red and white border collie that was born on a horse farm on New Year's Eve in 2002. Although both his parents were black and white borders, he inherited his coloring from his grandfather, who was also red and white. As a puppy, Hunter lived with Patricia Baldwin, who loved him dearly in spite of his tendency to chew anything and everything in sight. Patricia would take Hunter to a dog park to give him additional exercise. When he grew larger, Hunter followed his ancestral instincts and began herding the other dogs at the park, showing them that he was "Chief Canine-in-Charge."

Unfortunately, Patricia had to find a new home for Hunter when he was seven months old.

More on how Hunter became a rescue dog http://www.searchdogfoundation.org/zcom/newsletter/ScrapDetail.do?compid=98&newsid=29

Thanks to Debi Martin for her contirbution to this awesome story.

____________________________

What's Best for Your Dog

In reading the latest in "what's best for your dog," I have found that there are three leading brands that my clients and readers use. All are manufactured with the best in wholesome ingredients. What brands do you use and what has been the result as far as weight, coat and general health?

Email me and let me know or respond below with a comment. Check out the free sitting offer by referral on the home page, austincitypaws.com.

Love those pets and have a great week,
Gerry

Better Health for Your Cat

I am still amazed at the number of cat owners who tend not to have annual check-ups for their cats. This is crucial to the health of your pet. As I mentioned in my last blog, there are many diseases that can be contracted and especially by those pets that roam outside.

Feline Leukemia Virus
Is your cat at risk? The virus is spread among cats through infected saliva and urine and kittens can contract FeLV from their mother. Cats that go outdoors are more likely to be infected because they can come in contact with other cats or urine from territorial marking.

Keeping your cat indoors significantly reduces exposure to FeLV. If you do allow your cat outdoors, make sure it receives the FeLV vaccine, which boosts its immune system. Kittens receive a series of vaccinations and yearly boosters thought their adult life. It is also important to test any new cats or kittens for FeLV infection before introducing them to your household. Cats that go outdoors should be tested yearly.

Here is what to look for. Veterinarians often suspect FeLV infection in sick cats with incomplete vaccination histories and kittens that don't gain weight and have recurring infections. The signs often mimic other diseases, such as feline AIDS, and may include a combination of the following symptoms;

Weakness, lethargy or depression
Vomiting
Decrease or no appetite
Coughing
Weight loss
Ocular (eye) abnormalities
Fever
Anemia
Swollen lymph nodes
Dental disease

It is recommended that cats be tested for FeLV infection annually and that you call or take you pet to a vet whenever you suspect any health problem.

I hope you will take the time to visit our website at austincitypaws.com and take advantage of our pet referral plan. It is pretty cool. You can get free in-home pet services for a week when a friend books visits.

Also check out “Dukes Dog Duty Service.”

The Freezing Weather and Your Dog
What did you do with your outdoor pet when they weren't trained to be indoors? I would love to hear back from you on that subject. Just add a comment below or email me.

Have a Yappy Week,
Gerry

Why It's Safer For Your Cat to Stay Indoors

During the holiday season I found myself with a large number of clients that had cats. With that being said I set out to learn more about the welfare and health of cats with owners that keep them indoors.

First and most important, cats that live indoors have a much longer life span than those that are free roamers. Some cat owners feel it is cruel to deprive their kitty from the adventure that awaits them in the great outdoors.

Indoor only cats run a lower risk of being exposed to toxins, such as antifreeze and rat poison and they aren't victims of pranks.

The cats we never hear from again... I can't tell you the number of times my clients
call with the sad news that their kitty just up and vanished. Makes you wonder, doesn't it? A loyal pet that you have had for years doesn't come home one day. It is sad but it is a fact. Nine out of ten times the cat has become a victim to the outdoor environment.

Here in Austin, and the Texas Hill Country that surrounds us, we recognize that cats that live in areas that are adjacent to wilderness are more likely to be attacked by a predator while those that live in the city stand a higher risk of being hit by a car. According to a study done for HSUS in 2001, two out of three veterinarians suggested that their clients keep their cats indoors. The primary concerns about letting cats outside were the dangers from vehicles (65%) and the possibility of catching diseases (56%).

I love the cats I sit for. They are always excited to see me when I come go visit and feed them. I know you love your pets and want to protect them from harm and keep them in good health.

In coming weeks I will be adding more information on how you can create a healthy and
safe (not boring) environment for your Kitty.

If I can be of help or you need a sitter please call me or visit the website www.austincitypaws.com .

Happy New Year and love that kitty.