cats

Sure it feels good to scratch an itch, but in a pet it could be a sign of a flea problem.  While it's important to keep your pet healthy (and that includes keeping fleas and ticks away), consult with your veterinarian about the best and safest products to use on and around your furry friend.

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Rabies is prevented, by vaccinating animals that come in contact with humans.  If it's been a while since your pet was vaccinated  make an appointment with your veterinarian this week.   

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You can put together an emergency kit for your pet in a hurry.  Most of what you need will fit in a plastic zip bag.  Food and necessary medications are at the top of the list.  And - some folks might pack their best friend's rain gear!

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Keeping your pet happy, healthy and safe should always be part of your holiday plans, and Labor Day is no exception.    The idea is to enjoy sharing the celebration with your best friend, not rushing your furry buddy to the emergency vet clinic!

One of the best ways to keep your pet safe is to keep your home safe.  And often, one of the best ways to keep your home safe may be to keep your pet from dangerous situations that could cause a fire!

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Being outside on a sunny summer day may seem like a great idea, but hot humid weather can be dangerous for our furry friends.  Your four-legged companion depends on you to keep it safe and healthy in the sweltering summer heat.

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Chubbs, a Himalayan mix estimated to be about 10 years old, was grossly overweight.  His long fur was so matted it seemed to be painful for him, and much of it had to be shaved (or cut) off.  Perhaps he was never brushed, or he was just too large to groom himself.  

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A happy dog sitting in a car, hoping to go for a ride - what is wrong with this picture?  Nothing really, if the human makes sure the pet can ride safely, and does not leave the animal alone in the car, even for a few minutes.  

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What is it about boxes that cats love so much?  They are good places to hide, snooze, relax - and it doesn't have to be roomy.  Facebook is full of videos of cats scrunching and snuggling down into unbelievably small containers.   If you want to entertain your feline friend, just find a clean empty box.

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Hugging a pet may not do much for the animal, but it sure can bring the human a great feeling of companionship and comfort.  If you have a pet that likes to be hugged, you have a special friend!

Each of us may have our own idea of what it means to be kind to animals, whether it's showing respect for other living creatures, or becoming involved in helping to protect animals and making sure they are not mistreated.  This is a good week to fill your bird feeder and make sure the water in the bird bath is clean.  Or plant a bush that attracts butterflies.  Or just spend some extra quality time with your own furry buddy!

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Keeping your home safe for your best friend may mean limiting the use of things like essential oils.  That includes diffusers which may put oils into the air that could harm your pet's sensitive respiratory system.  

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So much of what we enjoy about the Easter celebration can mean trouble for our best friends.  Almost everything in the Easter basket should be kept away from our pets, and much of the food on our table, including anything with grapes, raisins, garlic, onions, avocados.  Uncooked breads containing yeast also should be kept away from an animal that likes to sneak a taste or two.   Enjoy the holiday, but remember to keep your furry buddy safe to help celebrate all year long.

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Our cat, Sasha, benefited from the expertise of a veterinary specialist who performed major surgery to remove many kidney stones.  Today she is doing just fine, thanks to a wonderful team of doctors - her local veterinarian who diagnosed the problem and the specialist who did such a great job with her surgery.

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We are fortunate to have a friend who takes care of our furry friends when we are away.  It's really a personal choice but if she were not available, I would probably consider hiring an experienced pet sitter.

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Spaying and neutering saves lives.  With fewer puppies and kittens being born and crowding the shelters, a homeless pet will have a better opportunity to find a new home and a caring owner!

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Poor dental health for your pet can lead to gingivitis or periodontal disease, common dental issues for your best friend.  It is estimated that most pets show signs of periodontal disease as early as three years old.  Regular checkups and good dental care can help to insure that your pet stays healthy, and keep you both smiling,

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If you are concerned for your pet's safety, do not put its name on the collar or ID tag.  An animal may be more receptive and willing to go with a stranger that knows its name.  And remember - unattended means unsafe when it comes to your best friend.

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With the flu season being especially difficult for humans this year, concern is growing about the threat of dog flu.  Yes, dogs have their own strain of flu, not contagious to humans but very easily spread to other dogs and even to cats.  The advice is the same for your dog as it is for you - get the flu shot.

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This is Gypsy.  If you look closely, you will see her "tipped" left ear.  The tip was surgically removed to indicate she has already been spayed, to alert anyone who might find her, to prevent unnecessary surgery in the future.  

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Shelter workers and rescue groups make a major difference for animals every day.  Folks who make contributions  or volunteer allow them to continue helping pets.  Pitch in today to change the life of pets - you may find your own life has changed for the better, too!

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Most cats love to play, and it doesn't require a lot of expensive toys.  A piece of string might do nicely.  For dogs, all you need is a leash to take your four-footed friend for a nice walk, or a ball to throw and chase.  What matters is doing something you both enjoy - together!

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Prissy was an American Snowshoe cat, a breed based on a cross with a Siamese cat.  You see the seal point markings and white feet, both of which are specific to her breed.  She had at least two owners who loved her - one advertised to find her a new home, and one gave her a chance to live out her life as a loved pet.

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The end of every year gives us a chance to consider what went right or wrong in the past, and how we might do better for ourselves and our furry companions going forward.  It's a great opportunity to hit the reset button and try to make the coming year a better one for all!

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Lacey, our little Calico cat, showed up at our house just before Christmas several years ago.  It was cold, and she was so grateful to come inside and get warm that she fell asleep in my lap - a stranger's lap, no less.  She is our reminder that Christmas is a time for sharing and caring!

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Traditions are an important part of life, but keeping our best friends safe is a vital part of preparation for any celebration.  You can still enjoy the holidays and observances and make small adjustments to protect the furry members of the family.

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Adopting a pet at Christmas gives both pet and new owner a special gift that keeps giving all year long.  If you have room in your life for a new four-footed buddy, adopt one today and share Christmas with your best friend!

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Keeping your pet safe during the holidays begins with choosing decorations carefully, and making sure you don't create an environment that will tempt your furry friend to get into trouble.  Remember, Santa may be watching!

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Thanksgiving is a holiday that centers around eating, but a lot of the food we enjoy can pose health risks for our furry friends.  Protecting your pet from some of the common food hazards can help to keep you at home enjoying family, friends and football, and not making an emergency trip to the veterinarian!

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Until we are able to control the pet overpopulation problem, we will have a need for animal shelters, and for the dedicated people who work or volunteer there.  

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