Tips of The Week 2005

The holidays are rolling around again and it's time to make the season pet safe too. Watch out for those extra treats our furry friends seem to beg for. Too much rich and unusual food can cause gastric upset and some treats like chocolate are poisonous for pets. No one wants to add an emergency trip to the vet to the bustle this time of year (or clean nasty accidents off the floor). Some plants and decorations can be harmful or dangerous so keep those out of reach. Poinsettias and mistletoe are common holiday plants that can cause problems for our four-legged friends. Holiday decorations like tinsel or those with small parts can be swallowed and may cause intestinal blockage. The water under our live Christmas trees can cause problems too, so be sure to keep it covered. It sounds like a lot of work, but a little careful prevention can help ensure the safety of our smaller members of the family this holiday season.

While it's tempting to put that cute little puppy or kitten under the Christmas tree, it's probably not a good idea. Never surprise someone with an unexpected pet. It might not be the breed desired or may have too much or too little energy. Most people really need to choose the pet that's right for them and this makes the bonding process proceed the way it should. And, inexplicably, some people just don't want a pet! Gift certificates purchased from your local pet shelter make the choice easy. This option has the added bonus of allowing you to help save a life. What better time than the holidays to remember those who have so little? Your gift brings joy to your recipient and gives the best gift of all to a four-legged friend. If you know someone who has a pet already, check with local vets about purchasing gift cards that can be used toward yearly checkups or bathing and grooming. Purchasing pet health insurance is another great option. Or make a donation to an animal charity in your friend's name! Thanks for remembering our furry friends this holiday season!!

Going on a holiday vacation? Don't forget your four-legged friends in your trip plan! If you plan to take your pets with you, be sure to have a safe traveling crate to protect your pet and keep him comfortable. If you're traveling by car, many hotels are now pet-friendly, just be sure to call ahead. Make sure you have all the supplies you need; don't forget medications. If you plan to leave your pets at home, be sure to have a reliable person care for your animals. Someone needs to feed and check on your pet at least once daily and know how to reach you if a medical or other emergency arises. Be sure to leave your vet's name and phone number handy. A vet's office or a safe, clean boarding facility are also excellent options for your pet's care while you are away. Most importantly, be sure your pets wear collars with current ID tags. Pets are at a higher risk for getting lost when in unfamiliar surroundings or with unfamiliar people. An ID collar helps your pet get home safely!

The holidays are rolling around again and it's time to make the season pet safe too. Watch out for those extra treats our furry friends seem to beg for. Too much rich and unusual foods can cause gastric upset and some treats like chocolate are poisonous for pets. No one wants to add an emergency trip to the vet to the bustle this time of year. Some plants and decorations can be harmful or dangerous so keep those out of reach. Lots of coming and going through the house can result in pet escapes to the great outdoors. Minimize this by keeping your pets confined during busy hours. Holiday guests often bring their pets along and mishaps can occur when territory infringements annoy resident pets. Be sure to practice safe pet introductions - remember that slow and monitored interaction is best. Have a safe holiday season for your whole family

Bored pets can get into a lot of trouble. When you can't be with them to keep them entertained, be sure to have lots of safe and interesting toys on hand to keep them occupied. If your pet has a short threshold for boredom, consider a good doggie day care center or daily pet sitter/walker. These aren't just for spoiled pets; they can be a great way to avoid common behavior problems found in pets with too much time on their paws. Many pets benefit from company of the four-legged kind too. Most domestic pets are social animals and need to be a part of a group. A buddy can keep them occupied until you get home and and keep your home and sanity safe. Be sure to spend quality time with your pet every day; they need to know you're there.

Housetraining blues? The keys to this important part of your dog's training are supervision and crate training. Be sure to pay close attention to your pet when you're at home. Keep her in the same room with you and take her outdoors immediately when she shows signs of needing to go. Praise her for appropriate behavior; don't punish her for doing the wrong thing - she won't understand. She may even associate ALL potty behavior as wrong and try to hide it from you, making your training more difficult. When you're not at home, crating reinforces her good behavior. Just be sure the crate isn't used ever as a punishment and make sure it's an inviting place. Toys, treats, bedding, and water bowls create the "den" and make your dog feel secure. Make sure you take her out before and after meals, when you come home, and at regular intervals. Keeping to the "keys" makes housetraining a whole lot less messy. For more detailed information, click on "pet behavior".

We're seeing ticks at the shelter again this time of year - a reminder that we all need to protect our pets from the insidious little pests. Vets carry many super and effective products at reasonable prices when you consider the pet medical problems you avoid by keeping your pets tick- and flea-free. Since ticks carry several diseases that can affect humans too, it's even more important to keep these critters out of sight and mind. Most of the newer products are easy to apply and work quickly. Most applications have residual effects and only need to be applied monthly for worry-free pest control. Check in with your vet to find the product best for your friend and keep ALL the members of your family safe and healthy!

According to a Purina study, six out of ten pets in the US are overweight. That's hardly surprising since we all know that human obesity is on the rise as well. Many of us feed our pets the same way we feed ourselves and for our pets, that means susceptibility to the same diseases and health problems overweight people experience. How can we prevent heart disease and other life-shortening problems from affecting our pets? The same way we prevent it in ourselves! Pets need regular exercise, annual health checkups and a healthy diet. See your veterinarian first to determine whether your pets can safely exercise and to evaluate your pet's diet and eating habits. If your pet eats all day long, she may be getting too many calories and may need a dietary adjustment. Exercising with your pets can keep you healthy too, so team up with your pet, enjoy the cooler weather, and get healthy together!

Does your dog or cat have red eyes? It may be minor irritation but it could be something else. It isn't a good risk for your pet to assume it's nothing or that it will go away on its own. Many conditions can cause red eyes, and if left untreated, some of these can become very serious very quickly. Red eyes are caused by inflammation of the mucous membranes around the eye and can be caused by allergies, corneal ulcers, conformation problems like entropion, disease, glaucoma, or cancer. If left untreated, many can cause blindness or more serious problems. Play it safe and take your pet to the vet to get an eye exam as soon as possible.

Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), sometimes called "Feline AIDS", is a common worry for cat owners. It can be passed from cat to cat, but not from cat to human. Though it can negatively affect your cat's immune system, it's important to realize that it doesn't have to mean death for your loved pet. Your vet can run a test to see whether your cat has this disease. This is especially important for outdoor cats as they have a much higher risk of exposure. If your cat tests positive, it should be kept indoors to prevent the risk of spreading to other cats and no new cats should be introduced into the household. Many infected cats can still live long and healthy lives with the proper care. Your vet can help you manage and prevent the spread of this disease.

An occasional cause of skin conditions in pets is caused by ringworm. The scientific name for this disease is Dermatophytosis. It is caused by a fungus not a worm, and the lesion is not always in the shape of a ring. Infected pets might be carriers of the disease to other pets, and might even transmit the disease to people. The skin lesions that appear with ringworm are variable, and do not necessarily form a ring. There will be hair loss, usually in small patches at first. A diagnosis of this disease can not be made based just on the appearance of this lesion. Demodectic mange, sarcoptic mange, and allergic dermatitis can look similar to ringworm. Your vet can make the diagnosis for you. Ringworm is easily treatable; topical shampoo therapy or anti fungal cremes may be recommended. As is the case in many diseases, routine hygiene consisting of washing your hands frequently and keeping your pets haircoat clean will go very far in preventing this problem.

Did you know that most of the dogs relinquished to shelters across the country are brought in because the pet owners did not understand normal dog behaviors and/or failed to provide even basic training? Great dogs aren't just born; they need help adjusting to our demands of them and we need to learn to communicate with each other. How do we do that?! Going to obedience training with your dog trains your dog to learn what you expect and trains you to teach your pet. And contrary to the old cliché about teaching old dogs new tricks, it's never too late to begin. Providing your canine with obedience training is a great way to spend time with her and makes for a great lifelong relationship! There are many great dog trainers in our area and the St Augustine Humane Society has one of them! Call 904-829-2737 for more information.

Dogs and cats can pick up ticks easily in Florida's warm, brushy fields and wooded areas. Removing a tick promptly and correctly can minimize any possible disease transmission and help keep your pets healthy. If you find a tick on your pet, don't pull it off with your bare hands. Don't crush it or apply anything to it such as petroleum jelly, oil, butter, nail polish, or alcohol. All of these are old home remedies, aren't necessary, and some can actually hurt your pet. The best way to remove a tick is to place tweezers around the tick's mouth parts next to your pet's skin. Gently pull the tweezers straight up until the tick comes free. Dispose of the tick and wash your hands. Disinfect your tweezers before using them again. Quick removal of ticks is essential so be sure to check your pet over thoroughly as soon as possible after a romp outside.

If your pet hasn't been to see the vet in the last year, now might be the time to schedule a visit - even if your pet isn't sick. Wellness exams are an effective way to be sure your pet stays healthy. A wellness exam includes a consultation, physical exam, and preventive tests. During the consultation, you can discuss any concerns you might have, ask questions, and report any changes in behavior. During the physical exam, your vet will examine your pet from nose to tail for signs of disease or other medical problems. Skin, teeth and gums, and eyes are checked as well. The preventive tests may include blood work, fecal testing for internal parasites, and urine testing. The wellness exam can help you and your vet detect disease signs early and allow for proper preventative treatment. Your pet and your wallet will appreciate yearly check-ups.

Dealing with destructive behaviors your pet may have can be frustrating. Some behaviors such as chewing and scratching furniture are natural activities and you can redirect these behaviors away from your expensive belongings to an acceptable alternative such as a scratching post or chew toy. Remove as many items as you can out of reach of your furry friend. If your puppy is chewing on an item you'd rather keep, interrupt the behavior and give him a safe toy to chew on. Praise him when he chews appropriately and make sure his toys are very distinguishable from your possessions. If your cat is scratching your furniture, use safe deterrents like perfumes to keep your cat off the couch and direct your cat to the scratching post. Never punish your pet; she won't understand it and punishment can trigger other undesirable behaviors. For more information consult your dog trainer

Everyone knows that ID collars are important for our cat and dog friends, but the tags aren't much good if your pet isn't wearing them and the information isn't up to date. Anytime you move or change your phone number, be sure to update your pet's ID and keep those collars on! A good-fitting collar is one that you can fit your first two fingers under comfortably and the collar should not pull over the animal's head. Cats should be fitted with "breakaway collars" that will stay on, but have an elastic panel that breaks if the collar becomes entangled. Ninety percent of the animals wearing ID tags go home again but less than five percent of the animals in shelters are wearing collars when they come in. Keep your pet happy and safe by keeping ID current

Volunteering with your pet is a great way to spend more time with your four-legged friend and help others too. Senior citizens, children, and many others benefit from animal volunteers. Many programs exist in the First Coast area including animal assisted therapy and visitation, search and rescue, and child education. If your pet is well-behaved, there are a number of opportunities available to you. The first step is to pass the AKC (www.akc.org) Canine Good Citizenship Test or get certification from the Delta Society Pet Partners Program (www.deltasociety.org) or from Therapy Dogs International (www.tdi-dog.org). Your pet must also be in good health and be current on vaccines. Volunteerism isn't just for dogs; cats and other pets can give too. Call Cindy or Candice at the St Augustine Humane Society, 904-829-2737 for more information about how you can help. It's a win situation for everyone!

Has your well-behaved cat suddenly decided to stop using the litterbox? It may not be a behavior problem; there could be an underlying medical issue. The first step to solving the problem is taking your cat to visit the vet. Your veterinarian can help with medications or rule out potentially serious problems. If health isn't the problem, it may take some investigation to determine the cause. Look for changes that have occurred in your household. The problem might be as simple as a litter brand or type change or it might be due to new pets or people in your home. Cats tend to like quiet places and it's best to keep litterboxes away from feeding or high traffic areas. Make sure the litterbox stays clean and thoroughly remove odors from "accidents" with an enzymatic cleaner. Again, the best thing you can do for your cat is to consult with your veterinarian to resolve the problem. The problem might be a little tough to pinpoint at first, but with a little perseverance, you and your cat will be happy and accident-free again.

Rabbits make wonderful house pets and the best place to get one is your local animal shelter. The St Augustine Humane Society isn't just cats and dogs and right now they have quite a few very nice rabbits that need good homes. Most rabbits are very social animals and they are best kept indoors. They can be kept outside, but must be protected from the weather and shouldn't be allowed to roam as they are subject to predation and other outdoor dangers. Rabbits can be litter box trained and can also be neutered. They aren't fond of being picked up, but do enjoy sitting on your lap or next to you on the couch. Like any pet, they require a balanced diet and regular vet care. They are loving and beautiful creatures and capable of giving great companionship. Consider a rabbit for your new pet!!

What is animal cruelty and how should you report it when you think you see it? Humane officers rely on reports from concerned citizens to combat animal abuse or neglect. Animals that are routinely left outdoors without shelter, food, or water are the most common victims of animal neglect and make up the majority of complaints investigated by animal control officers and law enforcement. Other indicators of abuse include animals with injury or illness left untreated, animals that are fearful of their owners, very thin animals, and animals with extreme hair loss. Knowing where to report suspected animal cruelty is key to getting your complaint investigated. Be sure to know which agency has jurisdiction in the area and be sure to give as much information as possible. Include the exact street address, description of the animal and the abuser, and as many other details as you know. Great communities rely on citizen involvement and it takes all of us to prevent animal cruelty.

This time of year many of us are struggling to keep our yards and gardens in good shape. If you are using weed killers, pesticides, or fertilizer, there are a few things you should do to prevent your pet from accidentally becoming poisoned by these products. Most of these products won't hurt your pet once the application is dry so it's best to keep them out of the area until then and avoid spraying them near your pet. Pets can become quite ill if they lick these substances off their paws. Always follow label directions faithfully and keep the unused portions well out of reach of curious pets. If your pet should ingest any of these substances, make sure you get the label ingredients and call your vet right away or the ASPCA Poison Control Center at 1-888-426-4435.

Hot weather can be hard on your pets and taking a few precautions can help keep your pet safe as temperatures rise. Never leave your pet in a car, even if it's in the shade and the windows are open. Temperature rises quickly in cars and shade can shift. Always carry water with you to help keep your pet hydrated and make sure it's always available at home. Be sure your outdoor dog has a nice cool doghouse and bring her inside during the hottest parts of the day. Watch out for dogs (and cats) with light colored skin; these guys can sunburn easily. These pets should be kept indoors. If your dog loves going to the beach, take along a beach umbrella for shade and be sure to wash off all the salt water. Be especially careful with older dogs and those with heart or lung problems; excessive heat makes these dogs more susceptible to heat stroke and exhaustion. Have fun in the sun and safeguard your pet from hot weather problems!

One of the most important things you can do to show your love for your pet is to be sure your furry friend has ID at all times. Less than five percent of the animals at shelters are wearing ID when they come in and these are mostly dogs. Even cats can wear ID collars; most cat collars are designed to break if snagged on a tree or bush preventing the collar from choking your pet. Microchips are also available in many areas and are a permanent form of identification. Before getting a microchip, check to see what kind of scanner your local shelter uses to be sure you get a compatible microchip. Universal scanners are on the horizon, but are still not a reality yet. Pet ID's are the best way to get a lost pet home safe and sound.

It's baby season in the cat and dog world right now and shelters are overwhelmed with litters of puppies and kittens. Make sure your pet is neutered so another litter isn't born needing homes. Even if you find homes for all your cute babies, it means fewer opportunities for the ones in the shelter. And your babies might grow up to reproduce too. In it's lifetime, one cat and its offspring can produce nearly half a million cats. It's a staggering and sad statistic. Do your part to help prevent more animals from becoming homeless and you help your pet as well. Neutered pets are less likely to roam and are more likely to live to a healthy old age. They often have fewer incidences of cancer and other diseases. Neutering your own pets is the best donation any shelter can receive and shows love for your own pet.

Don't forget the flea treatment!! It's the season for those annoying critters and ticks are beginning to make an appearance too. Protect your pet from these pests and the disease they can carry by visiting your vet for prevention recommendations. There are many choices on the market and your vet can help you decide on the method best for you. Prevention will not only help your pet feel better, but can also protect her health by eliminating the pests that vector diseases and parasites like Lyme disease and tapeworm.

It's baby season in the animal world and most shelters have many wonderful kittens and puppies this time of year. Resist the temptation to adopt that "free" pet and check out your local shelter. Most adoption fees are very reasonable (only $46.00 at the St Augustine Humane Society) and most shelters offer a great adoption package that may include services such as vaccines, worming, and flea treatments. All shelters are required to provide provision for spaying and neutering. "Free" pets often require that you provide these services for your new pet and the cost can be much higher. All pets require veterinary attention throughout their lives and adopting a shelter pet can help reduce your initial investment. Additionally, pets from the shelter will not reproduce and you can feel good about doing your part to reduce the number of animals in shelters and give a deserving pet a new home. You'll get a lifetime of love.

It's hurricane season again and as we're all preparing for another stormy summer, we need to think about preparing for our pets as well. Make sure to have plenty of pet food and water on hand as well as any medications your pets might need. Make sure all pets have identifying tags on their collars so shelters can get lost pets back where they belong. Microchips are a great way to ID a pet permanently, but during storm season it's important to have tags as well since phone lines may be down, making it difficult to track microchip numbers. Plan ahead for evacuation; some shelters may not allow pets. Pet-friendly hotels or relatives' homes are a great alternative and it's a good idea to make those arrangements in advance. Make sure to have enough sturdy carriers or kennels on hand for quick transportation. Never leave your pets behind in an evacuation. If it isn't safe for you, it's not safe for them and rescue workers may risk harm to themselves attempting to save abandoned pets. Take precautions to get through the bad weather as safely as possible.

Caring for our older pets can sometimes be a challenge. Pets grow older in the same way that we do. They may put on a few extra pounds, their activity levels may slow down, and they can develop many of the same diseases we do. Older pets may have problems with diabetes or kidney or thyroid disease, to name a few. To help prevent or mitigate senior problems, be sure to visit your vet for a checkup once a year or more often if recommended. There are blood tests that can detect problems early enough to make treatment more affordable and keep the disease from becoming life-threatening. Keep your healthy older dog active, watch his diet and look for changes in eyes, skin condition, appetite, and activity level that might indicate health problems.

Keeping vaccines up to date is just as important for our pets as it is for us and our children. This time of year, pets are on the move and so are more at risk for transmissible disease. Some of these diseases can be very devastating and quite expensive to treat. Some are not treatable once the disease has been contracted. Many vaccines should be updated yearly. The shelter has received a number of sick animals this spring and proper vaccination would have prevented many of the problems. Even if your pet stays indoors, current vaccines still protect his health. Talk to your vet and be sure your furry friend is well protected.

Beat the coming heat for your pet too! There are lots of ways to keep your canine companion cool. Many dogs like to swim in the warmer weather and a small kids' swimming pool in the yard is a great inexpensive way to provide swim time. Splashing in the water helps entertain her too. Be sure to keep plenty of fresh drinking water available when dogs are outdoors; some enjoy playing with ice cubes in the water dish. Many pet specialty stores carry cool treats specially formulated for dogs (avoid dairy products, especially in the summer). Some dogs may benefit from a summer hair cut, but check with your vet first. Some breeds actually need their longer hair to help stay cool. Never leave your dog in a car and make sure kennel areas are well-ventilated.

Do you hate that annoying habit dogs have of raiding your cat litter box? Here's an easy way to stop that! Place your cat's litter box in a low-traffic room, one you don't use much such as a guest room or bathroom. Put a baby gate across the doorway to prevent the dog from coming in. Your cat will be able to jump the gate. If your dog can make the jump, try hanging two gates with a space in between large enough for the cat to get through. Keeping the dog out of the litter box may also help prevent heath problems for your dog. Also it can help prevent inappropriate urination or defecation by your cat by giving him a safe, unstressed area for his box

Cut down the pet hair on your sofa (and your clothes) by helping your pet get rid of that shedding winter coat. Lots of regular brushing helps keep that fur from winding up where you don't want it and helps you bond with your pet. Most cats and dogs really love this kind of attention. There are even gloves on the market that you can wear while petting your four-legged friend that remove hair with every stroke. Regular bathing with mild shampoo or some professional grooming can really help too and may keep matting of the hair to a minimum.

With the weather starting to warm up, everyone is starting to feel the heat-and that includes your cats and dogs, especially if they are left in a parked car. Leaving a dog or cat inside the car on a hot day can cause injury or death even if the car is parked in the shade or if you leave water. Temperatures inside the car can get up to 120 degrees in just a matter of minutes. Dog normally cool down through panting, but with only hot air to breathe, this process is not possible. If a dog's temperature reaches 107 degrees, he or she risks severe brain damage and even death. Take your pets with you or leave them home. They'll love you for it!

As the weather gets warmer, the mosquitoes start biting. Be careful when your pet spends a lot of time outside this season, because mosquitoes carry heartworm disease. Proper prevention is necessary to reduce the risk of this life-threatening disease. Preventative medicines come in easy-to-administer doses that you need to give to your pet once a month. Whether your pet is an indoor or outdoor romper doesn't matter, both are still at risk of contracting this disease. Talk to your veterinarian for more information about heartworm disease.

When you are trying to get your puppy used to grooming, there are several things you can do to get him acquainted with the procedure. First of all, keep a happy and upbeat tone. Place the puppy up on a table or something with a non-slip surface. Don't forget to praise him even for something as simple as standing still. Rub your hands all over his body, legs, belly and through his coat. Also, open his mouth and look inside, play with his ears, pick up his paws - make sure you touch every part of him to get him used to every aspect of grooming. Reward him for behaving properly with treats

Getting a new puppy and you aren't sure how your cat will react? When you are preparing your home and your cat for the arrival of a new puppy, be sure to make changes in the cat's environment ahead of time. For example, move the cat's litter box and food to an elevated place that only the cat can reach. This way, the new puppy's attraction to these things won't cause any unnecessary upheavals such as spilled litter boxes and the dog won't eat the cat's food. Your cat will associate these bad situations with the arrival of the new puppy. Avoiding these problems will help foster a healthy relationship between the two.

When adopting a new puppy it is extremely important to socialize the puppy. It is crucial that the puppy be around different people and animals at a young age, because after that the task of socializing becomes much more difficult. Exposure to different experiences and locations such as the vet's office, boarding kennels or puppy day care, obedience classes, and dog parks can also help your puppy socialize well. A puppy that is properly socialized will make a great companion and will be well adjusted throughout its life.

A common myth in the pet world is that giving your cat milk is a good nutritional choice or a nice treat. Like humans, cats can be lactose intolerant and most are. They need their mother's milk while nursing, but drinking cows' milk can result in diarrhea and gastric upset. Cows' milk should never be the primary or regular food source for any cat or kitten since it is missing many essential ingredients to keep your feline healthy.

Does your pet have bad breath? If so, chances are it is caused by plaque build up. This can be eliminated by brushing your pet's teeth on a daily basis to rid them of the odor causing bacteria. Another way to prevent "pet breath" is to avoid feeding your pet canned food--pets fed canned food all their life will have many more dental problems and health problems later in life associated with dental disease. If bad breath is new to your pet or the smell has become worse, this can be an indication of illness or serious dental problems--check with your vet to be sure your pet is healthy.

To prevent your new puppy from teething on your table legs and chairs wipe a dime sized amount of vinegar over the area with a paper towel. Make sure there are other safe toys available that are appropriate for chewing and won't break into small pieces that can be ingested. Keep shoes and other items you want to keep intact out of reach of those sharp little teeth!

Many of our pets will be shedding winter coats in the next few months. Regular brushing will help remove loose hairs and prevent them from matting in your pet's remaining fur and will help keep it from accumulating on your furniture. Be sure to always brush his coat before bathing your pet; knotted fur tightens as it dries and becomes harder and more painful to remove. If matted fur is very close to the skin, don't attempt to cut it with scissors; it's very easy to cut the skin. Vets see this type of injury very commonly and it usually requires sutures. If the matting is severe, see a professional groomer and follow up with regular brushing to keep your pet comfortable!

Child-proofing Your Dog. Teach your child to play good games with his furry friend such as fetch, hide and-seek, or other fun tricks that both dogs and kids like. Don't let your child play games like tug-of war and wrestling that encourage your dog to be rough with him. Young dogs don't always realize their strength and can unintentionally injure little ones. Encouraging rough play can led to some very undesirable or even dangerous adult behaviors. Also, provide a safe house for the dog, like a crate or gated room. If your child's exuberance overwhelms your dog, the animal should have a safe haven away from your child. Do not let your child play with the dog in his safe spot. Keep both your babies safe and happy and teach them to play together well.

February is Pet Overpopulation Awareness Month. Shelters across the country encourage people to neuter pets to help end the euthanization of thousands of animals every year. Even if all the puppies or kittens in just one litter are given or sold to good homes, shelters are still affected by breeding of pets. Unless the litter is sterilized before it is placed in new homes, these offspring may well grow up to reproduce. Even if they don't, they take up a home that might otherwise be given to a shelter animal. Do the responsible thing; have your pets neutered. It will save lives.

Kids instinctively care about animals and learn compassionate behavior by observing the adult interactions they see. Teaching a child compassionate behavior toward other living things, whether animals or people, begins at a very young age and is important for the healthy emotional growth of the child. Children that learn to treat animals kindly often are more caring toward people. Role modeling is important, so teach your children compassion by treating the animals in your life with kindness and concern for their welfare. It will benefit the animals and the children. The ASPCA has a list of books to help teach kids compassion and humane treatment. You can view this list at www.aspca.org/bibliography

Keeping your dog's or cat's nails trimmed is an important part of good hygiene, keeps your pet healthier, and can help keep your furniture and floors in good shape. See your vet to learn the proper way to clip nails and be sure to keep your clipper blade sharp. Dull blades can cause painful splitting and cracking of the nail. Always clip the tips only. You and your pet will both be happier!

Did you know you can and should brush your dog or cat's teeth? Brushing your pets' teeth helps keep their pearly whites healthier and keeps tartar from building up. It also prevents the growth of harmful bacteria that over time can cause serious systemic problems for your furry baby. There are special fingertip brushes for small dogs and cats; children's toothbrushes work well for larger dogs. There are also several brands of pet toothpaste with flavors animals like and without additives like fluoride and baking soda that can make your pet sick when swallowed. Most pets can learn to tolerate or even enjoy tooth brushing; talk to your vet for more information. (Tooth brushing also helps get rid of "doggy breath"!)

Going on a winter vacation? Don't forget your four-legged friends in your trip plan! If you plan to take your pets with you, be sure to have a safe traveling crate to protect your pet and keep him comfortable. If you're traveling by car, many hotels are now pet-friendly, just be sure to call ahead. Don't plan to leave your pets in your car; it isn't safe and many municipalities across the country have ordinances restricting or prohibiting animals left unattended in vehicles. Make sure you have all the supplies you need; don't forget medications. If you are staying with friends, be certain there's a place for your furry friend and that other pets in the home like newcomers. If you plan to leave your pets at home, be sure to have a reliable person care for your animals. The Humane Society often receives animals that got away from caretakers and many times the owners are unaware that their pets are even missing. Someone needs to feed and check on your pet at least once daily and know how to reach you if a medical or other emergency arises. Be sure to leave your vet's name and phone number handy. A vet's office or a safe, clean boarding facility are also excellent options for your pet's care while you are away. Most importantly, be sure your pets wear collars with current ID tags. Pets are at a higher risk for getting lost when in unfamiliar surroundings or with unfamiliar people. An ID collar helps your pet get home safely!

For more information about the animals available at the St. Augustine Humane Society, visit the shelter at 1665 Old Moultrie Rd or call 829-2737.

If you are getting a new pet over the holidays, here are some things you might want to do to get started off on the right foot. First, make an appointment with your veterinarian. It's a good idea to get a health check up to identify any potential health risks and to be sure your new pet gets started on a vaccine program and a good diet right from the start. It can help you avoid expensive medical treatment in the future and help you develop a relationship with your vet and your new pet.

If you adopted a dog, consider getting started with behavior training. Many dogs are surrendered to shelters because their owners didn't know how to avoid common canine misbehaviors that become a big nuisance over time. Again, relationships with professionals like your dog trainer can help you avoid future heartaches and headaches.

Be sure to have plenty of toys on hand and bedding and grooming items. Be ready to spend as much time as possible, especially those first few weeks, with your new pet to make the adjustment period smooth and to make your new friend feel secure in her new home. Enjoy your new pet and have a happy holiday season!!

The holiday season is with us once again and it can be a fun time for your pet too, if you take the right precautions. When choosing holiday decorations, be sure to use pet-friendly ones or keep potentially harmful ones out of reach. Tinsel, ribbons, garlands, and other similar ornaments can be very harmful if eaten by your pet. These may become lodged in the intestinal tract and may require surgery for removal. Breakables like glass should be kept well away from the curious and be careful with metal hooks that may be eaten or stepped on.

Anchor your tree to keep it from being knocked over by feline climbers and be sure to keep pine and fir needles swept up. Avoid using preservatives in the watered base. Many holiday plants like poinsettias, holly, and mistletoe are poisonous to pets. Candles should be avoided as they may be a fire hazard and vapors from them can be toxic to pet birds.

Keep those holiday treats out of reach as well; nothing ruins a party like a vomiting pet!! Chocolate in sufficient amounts can be very harmful to dogs and cats. Keep pet treats on hand to reward your faithful friend and help make the holidays brighter. For more information about pet-proofing your home for the holidays, check out www.americanhumane.org and click on "keep your pets safe".

This time of year we turn our thoughts toward holiday gifts for our loved ones. Many people, especially children, love to see a new furry companion come home for the holidays. Giving a pet as a gift is a great way of expressing how much you treasure another person. Animals give so much to those they enrich with a lifetime of unconditional love. But a gift of a pet can also come with an unexpected price tag. Make sure your recipient is ready for a new pet and they ideally should choose the pet for themselves to be sure it's a good fit. Pets adopted this way generally stay in their new homes and you're sure to give the right one.

Never surprise someone with an unexpected pet. It might not be the breed desired or may have too much or too little energy. And, inexplicably, some people just don't want a pet! Gift certificates purchased from a local pet shelter make the choice easy. This option has the added bonus of allowing you to help save a life.

What better time than the holidays to remember those who have so little? Your gift brings joy to your recipient and gives the best gift of all to a four-legged friend. If you know someone who has a pet already, check with local vets about purchasing gift cards that can be used toward yearly checkups or bathing and grooming. Purchasing pet health insurance is another great option. Or make a donation to an animal charity in your friend's name!

Thanks for remembering our furry friends this holiday season!!

Some pet owners are unaware of local ordinances governing keeping pets. Being aware of these is a part of being a responsible guardian for our furry friends. It also can save a lot of grief in the long run. Most municipalities have ordinances prohibiting allowing cats and dogs to roam off an owner's property. Many also require tags and licensing for both species. Some prohibit keeping various types of exotic animals or have specific caging or confinement regulations. Most require shelter for animals kept outdoors and some are very specific about the type of shelter that must be provided.

Educating yourself about the ordinances in your area can help you avoid a citation and can help keep your pet safe. Remember that ignorance of laws isn't a valid defense for violating them. Luckily it's easy to find these ordinances. Most ordinances across the country can be found in one location at www.municode.com. If yours isn't there, check your local government website or call the animal control authority for your area.

Let's keep all our four-legged friends happy, healthy, and safe!

Rabies vaccines for cats, dogs and ferrets are required by Florida law for the protection of humans and for prevention of the spread of a fatal disease. And it just makes sense to protect your pets especially if they are allowed outdoors. Companion animals can be exposed to the rabies virus through contact with the saliva of an infected animal, commonly as a result of a bite. Exposure to rabies can be minimized by keeping pets indoors (especially in the evening) except when supervised. Wild animals can be discouraged from frequenting your yard by keeping potential food sources out of reach. Cover garbage tightly, feed your pets indoors, and don't put food out for the natives.

Common reservoir animals for the rabies virus in Florida include raccoons, foxes, coyotes, bats, and skunks. If your pet may have been exposed, have your pet examined by your veterinarian and report the incident to Environmental Health and to the animal control authorities for your area. If your pet has been exposed to the virus through transmission by a confirmed positive wild animal, be prepared to quarantine your pet. Pets without current rabies vaccines must be quarantined much longer than those with current vaccines.

Protect your pet and your family by keeping rabies vaccines current. It will save you grief in the long run and it's just the sensible thing to do. For more information, go to the Center for Disease Control website at http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvrd/rabies/.

Adopting a new friend into your feline family? A smooth introduction can eliminate aggression problems between new feline roommates and working up to it slowly is the best method. Cats can be territorial and reluctant to share your attention with a new arrival. Some cats become best friends, others only learn to tolerate each other and both of these reactions are normal. But once aggression between cats becomes established, it can be very difficult to overcome. Feline aggression can run the gamut between growling and hissing to attacking and biting.

Slowly wins the race. Keep your new cat confined to one room at first and supply him with blankets, food and water, and a litter box. Feed the cats at the same time on opposite sides of the door so they associate each other with the fun of eating. Switch blankets between the cats to familiarize them with the other's scent. Allow your new kitty some access to the house while the others are confined in another room. After several days, introduce the cats to each other for limited time periods under your supervision. You may see some growling and hissing occur as they establish communication, but if fighting occurs separate them again and start the process over from the beginning.

Nearly all cats can learn to live in harmony with each other (even if they have to pretend the other doesn't exist at all) and many cats do develop affinity for others. Patience with introductions can help ensure a tranquil multi-cat household. For more cat introduction info, go to Cat Behavior Tips.

Dogs and pick-up trucks aren't a good combination. Most dogs love riding in the truck bed and will hang over the side to feel the wind rushing through their ears and fur. Many enjoy barking at passing vehicles and pedestrians. But often the most fun things really aren't safe. Dogs in truck beds can be thrown from the vehicle during sudden stops, bumps in the road, or vehicle accidents. Dogs chained in truck beds can be injured when they are bounced over the side of the vehicle or hit the sides of the truck bed. They can be dragged along behind the vehicle as well. Many animal emergency room technicians and vets say the the worst injuries they see in dogs occur during these types of incidents. Other drivers can be injured by dogs escaping from truck beds into traffic.

The best alternative is to take your pets for rides inside the vehicle and don't leave them unattended when you park the truck. Always make sure your pet is wearing ID just in case an escape occurs. Prevention of accidents saves lives and money.

We all know how important it is to baby-proof a home for the new arrival. It's just as important to "cat proof" your home for your new furry friend. Cats are attracted by moving objects so it's important to avoid dangling electric and drapery cords. Cats can chew on these and sustain injuries requiring veterinary attention. Clothes dryers present a very warm place for a cat-nap, so keep that door closed and check for visitors before turning the dryer on. Cats in tumbling dryers can be severely burned in a very short time. Be careful about the types of houseplants you choose; some of these are very poisonous (and attractive) to cats. Keep small objects that can be swallowed away from your cat, especially things like buttons, needles, or other objects with strings attached. Don't let your cat eat human food, some foods cause severe diarrhea in cats and some foods such as chocolate can cause very severe reactions.

Basic prevention can help you avoid extra vet bills and keep your kitty healthy and safe. For more information, check the pet behavior section in this website and talk to your veterinarian.

Does your dog like to roam? This can be a problem for many dog lovers. Roaming dogs are often a nuisance to neighbors and can be injured by cars or other potentially dangerous objects in the area. Additionally, St Johns County has ordinances prohibiting loose dogs for human health and safety reasons.

Dogs that won't stay home can cause quite a few headaches for their human friends. Fortunately, there are some basic things you can do to keep your traveler safe and happy at home. Spayed and neutered pets are much less likely to feel the urge to explore and there are many health and social benefits that make this step a no-brainer. Some dogs are footloose because they are bored. This problem is easily alleviated by having fun with your pet. Throwing a ball, a nice walk on a leash, an outing to a dog park, or a swim are great ways to give your dog some entertainment (and some exercise for you both). Make sure your dog has safe toys that aren't easily chewed to bits and a comfortable place for confinement when you aren't at home.

Keeping your dog interested at home is a great way to make sure he stays there. Of course keeping the fence in good repair is your first line of defense. Most dogs will take advantage of an easily available escape route no matter how well behaved. And don't forget those all-important obedience classes! The more time you spend with your canine companion, the happier you both will be.

Think you can't train a cat? Contrary to what many people believe, cats can be trained. The trick is to use positive reinforcement with your cat whenever he performs a desirable behavior. For example, cats can be trained to use a scratching post (rather than that very expensive sofa you just bought) by rewarding them with treats when the post is used. You can also encourage your kitty by using catnip or a toy attached to the post. Your cat's natural curiosity will attract him to the post. Then it's your job to keep that good behavior going.

Cats, like dogs, humans, and other species, do not respond well to training by punishment. In fact, punishment can reinforce undesirable behavior and result in additional negative responses such as biting or scratching. In the great effort to get along, even the snootiest cat really just wants to please you. For more information on this and other ways to train your cat, visit Cat Behavior Tips

When you walk out your back door and see some of the beautiful wildlife native to Florida, it's often tempting to give these animals a helping hand by putting out treats or other food for them. And it's fun to watch their habits as they snack away. While it's a hard thing to resist sometimes, we really aren't doing our wildlife a favor by feeding them. Much of what we eat isn't a good diet for them. Often they are just like us and if it tastes good, they'll eat it. Unlike us, they don't know junk food can contribute to upset stomachs, adverse reactions, and disease.

Many animals become habituated to humans when fed and lose their innate wariness of us. This can cause them a serious problem. Docile animals like marsh rabbits, opossums, and armadillos become less shy and are often harmed by cruel humans or domesticated pets. More gregarious animals such as raccoons may become aggressive as they seek to protect this new territory containing culinary delights. They may even "bite the hand that feeds" them. Alligators often cause serious injury and death to pets and humans when they become habituated to us.

Nature provides for her creatures and those best suited will survive (probably better) without us. We should just be content to observe them in their natural environment and enjoy their wild beauty.

The weather in Florida is yet a bit steamy this time of year and it's important to remember that your pet still needs warm weather care. Check your pet's coat and watch for fleas and ticks. Regular brushing will help control shedding and keep your pets fur and skin in good condition. Look for irritated skin or excessive dryness or oiliness that can be signs of skin problems. Make sure plenty of clean, drinkable water is available to avoid heatstroke and dehydration. Keep exercise to a minimum in the heat of the day and when humidity is very high. The best time to exercise your pet is early in the morning or late in the evening. Watch out for hot pavement that can burn footpads or leave them sticky with tar. Avoid letting your pets play on grass treated recently with herbicides, insecticides, and fertilizers. These chemicals and some common garden and household plants can make your pet very ill. Have fun in the sun and keep your best friend healthy!

Is your furry friend a little wobbly in the tummy or chubby in the cheeks? It might be a good time to get a health checkup for your feline or canine friend. Obesity is a serious health concern for pets just as it is for humans. If your baby needs to lose some weight, check his or her diet, you may want to try a food with a lower calorie count. Treats should be saved for very special occasions and should be healthy ones. Avoid table food; it can be high in calories and it can also cause gastric upset for your pet. Porky pets benefit greatly from exercise and it's a great way for you to bond. Cats love to chase moving objects and a romp in the yard or a catch session is great exercise for your dog. It might help you lose a few pounds, too. Always check with your vet before changing diets and be sure to have safe toys for your pets to play with. You'll both be healthier for it!

Many animals are surrendered to the Humane Society and other shelters because of undesirable behaviors. What many people don't realize is that dogs and cats are rarely born "perfect". Just like their human counterparts, young pets require proper training to help them grow to be well-adjusted adults. Improper training can reinforce rather than inhibit these behaviors.

Dogs and cats have been domesticated to live with humans and to please their "guardians". In order to train our pets well, we need to train ourselves. The best approach is to find an obedience trainer that uses positive reinforcement to encourage desired behavior. Additionally, you want to find one that will train you at the same time your pet is trained. Going to obedience training together reinforces that essential human-animal bond and teaches you how to motivate your pet. This can help you establish lifelong communication and keep undesirable behavior from becoming entrenched.

There are several good obedience trainers in the area. Ask friends and veterinarians for referrals and ask questions of potential trainers. Pick someone you feel comfortable with; good communication will be very important to you. Any animal can benefit from training and it's rarely too late to start.

Prepared for the storms this season? Don't forget to plan for your pet too. The Humane Society received calls from many people this weekend looking for a place to board animals in case of evacuation. Remember that most public shelters do not allow pets and planning for this part of your family is very important.

Pets should not be left behind in an evacuation event. Many rescue workers endanger themselves trying to save trapped pets. Prepare an evacuation plan for each possible event (for example, hurricane, wildfire, flooding, etc.) and know what you plan to do with your pets ahead of time. Decide where you will find shelter during the event; many hotels in Florida are pet-friendly, but you do need to plan for this before the last minute.

Many people found this past weekend that hotels had filled up and boarding areas were also full. Animal shelters must keep space available for rescued animals after the event and for the animals of special needs citizens.

Make sure you have a safe method for transporting your pets and try to have alternate plans in case your first choice ends up not being an option. If you are staying home, be sure you have all the supplies on hand that you will need for you and your pets. Make sure you have extra pet food, any medications needed, and plenty of water. Crates for pets may help them feel more safe and may help protect them. Keep your pets indoors.

For all the information you need to better plan for disasters, go the the Humane Society of the United States website at http://www.hsus.org

Do you keep your dog outside? If so, you need to be aware of a few important things. Dogs must have shelter from wind, rain, and hot and cold conditions. The shelter should be big enough for the dog to stand, lie down, and turn around in. Be sure that water cannot seep inside the shelter and that it’s draft-free. Most areas have ordinances requiring shelter for outdoor pets.

Your dog also needs toys and human interaction to keep her from becoming bored. Make sure she has a secure fence and don’t keep her tied up. Many dogs have severe behavioral problems from being tied and from having little socialization with humans.

Dogs need play time and learning time with you, just as children do. Dogs are “pack animals” and for a domestic dog, its pack is you and your family. Dogs need their packs to learn behavior sets and to feel safe. It’s best to have your dog indoors with you, but if this isn’t always possible, make sure she has what she needs to be safe, comfortable and happy. She’ll be a better dog for it.

Choosing the right pet may sometimes seem like a difficult decision since there are so many cute animals waiting for new homes. It is a tough one, but if you are realistic about want you want from a pet, you can narrow down your choices and make a more informed decision. Consider whether you want a pet to play with or whether you prefer a “couch potato”. Maybe you enjoy a pet you can train yourself or a pet that does its own thing. Whatever you like best, the important thing is to do your research first. Talk to professionals like your veterinarian, local dog trainers or the staff of your local shelter. Find the type of pet and/or breed that typically works best with your particular set of expectations. Don’t try to adopt a pet that can’t match and expect it to change its basic personality. This rarely works well and may result in heartache for you and another pet for the shelter. Remember that most pets can be trained for obedience and aversives; personality stays for life. Decide how much you can afford to spend on your new pet and remember to keep reserves for emergencies and veterinary treatment. Set a budget for yearly feeding, grooming, housing and husbandry items, and preventive medicine. Make sure the cost of your new pet fits within these guidelines. If not, it might be wise to consider a different type of pet. Take those beautiful brown eyes home when you’ve found the right set for you and your family.

It's summer time and the fleas are jumping; the mosquitoes are biting! Protect your pets from these pests for comfort and to prevent disease. Fleas can cause anemia and often carry tapeworm. Flea anemia can pose a serious risk to your pet's life and is often missed by the untrained eye until the problem is very severe. Tapeworms rob your pet of needed nutrients for good health. Ticks can carry diseases that affect you and your pet. These diseases can be
prevented by regular vaccination of your furry friend.

Mosquitoes are vectors for the organisms that cause heartworm disease. Heartworm disease can affect both dogs and cats and causes extensive damage and death if left untreated. It can be avoided very easily, usually with a once-monthly preventative dose.

Talk to your veterinarian about prevention for these pest-related diseases. There are now several options; you can choose the best for you and your pet. Take the opportunity to discuss concerns and questions about your pet's health with your vet. It can save your pet's life!

Problems housetraining a puppy? Crate training is a great, humane way to get your puppy started on the right track. Be sure to choose the crate size that's right for your puppy - not too large or too small. Make sure you have toys and water available in the crate. Never use the crate to punish your puppy, she'll become afraid to be in it. Most dogs think of their crates as their own den or private space and this is your goal.

Puppies should only be kept in the crate a certain length of time. Puppies can be expected to hold their bladders the number of months old they are plus one equals number of hours. For example, if your puppy is five months old, she can be expected to hold her bladder for 5+1=6 hours. Your puppy should be taken outside right after crating, feeding, and napping. When she goes potty, praise her and let her know what a good dog she is. Negative reinforcement is to be avoided. Don't spank your puppy or rub her nose in feces. This teaches her to be afraid of you and that urinating and defecating is "bad".

Crate training can protect your home from "accidents" and chewing behavior and help your puppy learn household behavior very quickly. For further information, contact the Humane Society, your veterinarian, or your dog trainer. You and your puppy will become happy, lifelong companions with the right training.

If you lose a pet, start looking right away. First check your neighborhood, then head to the St. Augustine Humane Society. See if your pet has been brought to the shelter and file a lost pet report.

Remember to check back with the shelter frequently, as new dogs and cats come in every day. Post flyers in your neighborhood and ask your neighbors to keep an eye out for your pet. Post an ad in the newspaper. When your pet comes home, be sure it has current ID and that its escape routes have been repaired. Remember, DON'T WAIT to start looking for your pet. The sooner you start, the better your chances are of finding your pet. Many people wait several days or weeks before coming to the shelter.

Only about 4 percent of cats and less than half of the dogs in shelters nationwide are reclaimed by their owners. Let's make St. Johns County better than average. We want to see our animals go home!

Remember that while some pets love traveling in the car with you, it isn't safe to leave them unattended even for a few minutes. Even with windows open and water available, the temperature inside a parked vehicle can become dangerously high within a short time. You might be gone longer than you planned or your pets could fall victim to theft. Take them with you, but take them somewhere they'll be welcome (like dog parks or pet supply stores), safe, and won't have to wait in the car.