LOCAL PET BUSINESS HIRES ON A SITTER AND EXPANDS INTO SUNNY ISLES
Sunny Isles, Fla. – Mar. 5, 2010 -- Paws and Dogs, LLC (www.pawsanddogs.com) has announced their expansion into Sunny Isles by adding a team member to the area. It allows pet owners to have piece of mind while on vacation or working late. A healthy pet’s lifestyle depends on daily walks for exercise and socialization.
According to Cesar Millan, a famous dog trainer and Leon F Whitney, D.V.M most dog issues or signs of instability can be modified with daily exercise. Some of the signs of instability are: jumping up on people, running away, obsessive barking, aggressiveness or antisocial behavior towards humans or other dogs. Most times these behaviors come about from boredom and lack of activity. These bad habits develop slowly and can be broken, but not in a short time.
Visits start at $15 for a half hour walk and feed. To help celebrate their expansion company owner, Ana Bertran, is offering one free walk per household in the area of Sunny Isles.
About Paws And Dogs LLC
Paws And Dogs has been in business for three years, servicing Aventura through Midtown and the Beaches. P&D provides dog walking and pet sitting services, along with supply pick up and drop off at competitive and affordable pricing. They are members of Pet Sitters International, a Professional Pet Sitters association, are insured and have references in the area.
For more information on the services provided by Paws and Dogs visit http://www.pawsanddogs.com or call 305-496-3709.
The U. S. Food and Drug Administration is warning consumers not to use Merrick Beef Filet Squares for dogs distributed by Merrick Pet Care with a package date of “Best By 111911” because the product may be contaminated with Salmonella.
The product was distributed nationwide through retail stores and Internet sales.
Although no illnesses associated with these products have been reported, the FDA is advising consumers in possession of these products not to handle or feed them to their pets.
In December 2009, the FDA conducted routine testing of Merrick Beef Filet Squares and detected a positive finding for Salmonella. A follow-up inspection found deficiencies in the packaging and manufacturing processes.
Salmonella can affect both humans and animals. People handling dry pet treats can become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the treats or any surfaces exposed to these products. Consumers should dispose of these products in a safe manner by securing them in a covered trash receptacle.
Healthy people infected with Salmonella may experience some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. Although rare, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments including arterial infections, endocarditis (inflammation of the lining of the heart), arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their health care provider immediately.
Pets with Salmonella infections may become lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever and vomiting. Some pets may experience only a 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 any of the affected product or is experiencing any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately.
The affected Merrick Beef Filet Squares were packaged in a 10-ounce green, red and tan re-sealable plastic bag. The “best by” date is imprinted on the top portion of the bag, which is torn off when the bag is opened. The FDA recommends that consumers who are unable to determine the “best by” date discontinue use of the product.
Does the sight of a chained dog break your heart? You and your kids can help chained dogs this Valentine's Day thanks to Dogs Deserve Better, a national rescue and advocacy group dedicated to ending the practice of perpetually chaining dogs.
Each year, the group sends Valentine's Day cards and dog treat coupons to chained canines across the country during its Have a Heart for Chained Dogs Week. The group includes a brochure for the dog's caretakers, explaining why the practice of continuously chaining dogs is a form of abuse. The materials encourage people to bring their dogs into the home or to find better homes for the animals. This year, the group hopes to reach 15,000 dogs.
Take action for chained dogs
Here are a few suggestions on how to make doggy valentines, mail coupons to dogs, submit addresses of chained dogs, and more. Also, visit the Dogs Deserve Better website to see what others have done to help.
1. Get crafty
Making valentines for chained dogs is a great project for kids! Visit DogsDeserveBetter.org to see what volunteers have created in the past. Hurry—the deadline for submitting valentines is Feb. 5.
In addition to a valentine, each dog will receive a coupon for free or discounted dog treats or food. Make sure your coupons go to good use—mail them by Feb. 5 to Dogs Deserve Better, P.O. Box 23, Tipton, PA 16684.
4. Sponsor valentines
The cost of this campaign is quite high due to material and mailing fees, but it is well worth it! You may either sponsor valentines for addresses you provide, or sponsor valentines for others who provide addresses. Sponsor your valentines at Dogs Deserve Better's website »
As social animals, dogs need to have regular interactions with their family. Dogs who are left chained up in the yard experience boredom, loneliness, and isolation, which eventually lead to territorial and aggressive behaviors. Read more »
Recent media reports of the 2009 H1N1 influenza (swine flu) virus cases in companion animals have many people concerned for the health of their pets. Here's what The HSUS has confirmed about such cases, and what you can do to protect your pets from getting sick. Ferrets and cats affected
At the end of October, a USDA laboratory confirmed a Nebraska ferret died of H1N1 infection. Around the same time, three ferrets living in one Oregon household were also diagnosed with H1N1 infections.
Earlier this month, both the Iowa State Veterinarian and the Department of Public Health confirmed H1N1 flu in a domestic cat. This Iowa feline and the Oregon ferrets are reportedly recovering from their illnesses.
Causes and symptoms
It appears that all pets so far stricken with H1N1 flu were infected by human household members who had recently been ill with the virus. Animals who have contracted H1N1 influenza have shown the typical signs of respiratory illness such as lethargy, decreased appetite, fever, runny nose and eyes, sneezing, coughing and changes in breathing patterns including difficult or labored breathing.
Dogs not affected yet
To date there are no reports of companion animals infecting humans with H1N1. There have also been no reports of canine H1N1 cases.
The canine influenza virus, H3N8, can be transmitted from dog to dog, and a canine H3N8 influenza vaccine is available. However, the H3N8 vaccine will not prevent H1N1 infection.
Neither the H1N1 vaccine, nor any other human influenza vaccine, is appropriate for non-human species and it should not be given to pets for any reason. The same caution holds true for human anti-viral formulations; they are generally not appropriate companion animal medications.
What you can do
Our animal companions live in very close proximity to us. The best way to keep pets safe from contracting influenza is to routinely use common sense preventive health measures within your household. These include practicing good hygiene by washing your hands often and certainly before and after contact with sick individuals and with your pets. Minimize your own and your pets’ exposures to flu sufferers and if you yourself are ill, limit contact with your pets to all but absolutely necessary interactions.
During this flu season, strive to keep your pets in overall good health with regular preventive health care and consult your veterinarian promptly if your pets show any signs of illness.
Most cancer symptoms in dogs and cats are identified through a variety of different behaviors. These are typically not recognized as cancer warnings by the pet owner. The American Veterinary Medical Association has organized a Top Ten list to help pet owners identify cancer symptoms in dogs and cats:
1. Abnormal swellings that persist or continue to grow 2. Sores that do not heal 3. Weight loss 4. Loss of appetite 5. Bleeding or discharge from any body opening 6. Offensive odor 7. Difficulty eating or swallowing 8. Hesitation to exercise or loss of stamina 9. Persistent lameness or stiffness 10. Difficulty breathing, urinating, or defecating
Media Inquiries: Rita Chappelle, 301-796-4672, rita.chappelle@fda.hhs.gov Consumer Inquiries: 888-INFO-FDA
FDA Health Alert for Certain Pet Treats Made by Pet Carousel Products may be contaminated with Salmonella
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is issuing this health alert to warn consumers not to use Pig Ears and Beef Hooves pet treats manufactured by Pet Carousel because the products may be contaminated with Salmonella. The products were distributed nationwide in both bulk and retail packaging for sale in pet food and retail chain stores. Pet Carousel is based in Sanger, Calif.
The products were manufactured under conditions that facilitate cross-contamination within batches or lots. Although no illnesses associated with these products have been reported, the FDA is advising consumers in possession of these products to not handle or feed them to their pets.
The affected pig ear products were packaged under the brand names Doggie Delight and Pet Carousel. The affected beef hooves were packaged under the brand names Choo Hooves, Dentley’s, Doggie Delight, and Pet Carousel. All sizes and all lots of these products made by Pet Carousel are included in this alert.
During September 2009, the FDA conducted routine testing of pig ears made by Pet Carousel. The test results detected a positive reading for Salmonella. This prompted an FDA inspection of Pet Carousel’s manufacturing facilities. During the inspection, the agency collected additional pet treat samples. Further analysis found Salmonella present in beef hooves, pig ears and in the manufacturing environment.
Salmonella can affect both humans and animals. People handling dry pet food and/or pet treats can become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the treats or any surfaces exposed to these products. Consumers should dispose of these products in a safe manner by securing them in a covered trash receptacle.
Healthy people infected with Salmonella may experience some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. Although rare, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments including arterial infections, endocarditis (inflammation of the lining of the heart), arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their health care provider immediately.
Pets with Salmonella infections may become lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever and vomiting. Some pets may only experience a 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 any of the affected products or is experiencing any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately.
The FDA will continue to investigate this matter to determine the source of the Salmonella contamination and offer updates as appropriate.
A topsy-turvy musical adventure story full of songs, dance, and spectacle! The family-friendly tale concerns Mr. and Mrs. Pongo, a pair of spotted dogs, whose puppies are dog-napped by Cruella de Vil. 101 Dalmatians is a one-of-a-kind show with a surprise ending that will leave everyone cheering!
Led by the creative team of Jerry Zaks (La Cage Aux Folles, Smokey Joe’s Café, “Everybody Loves Raymond”), B.T. McNichol (Spamalot, Billy Elliot, Cabaret) and Dennis DeYoung (founding member of the rock group Styx). 101 DALMATIANS THE MUSICAL will transport audiences to a slightly topsy-turvy, exciting, and altogether fantastic reality that gives grand license for song, dance and spectacle.
As you, your ghosts, goblins and Weather Balloon Boys all head out for Halloween festivities this weekend, we here at the Daily Treat command center feel it our civic duty to share with you these important safety tips to prevent you from ending up in some bad YouTube video or on TMZ.
1) Costume Common Sense
If you do decide to dress your pet , make sure the costume doesn't restrain your pet in any way and that your pet's vision is not impaired. Don’t force the issue: If Rover doesn't want to dress up as Lara Croft Tombraider, then Rover shouldn't be Lara Croft...maybe he'd actually prefer Judge Judy.
2) Candy Patrol
As much as your dog or cat may beg for some of your Halloween candy, always remember that chocolate is DEADLY to them in any amount. Chocolate contains a chemical called theobromine, which is poisonous to dogs. Symptoms can include vomiting or diarrhea. That said, be sure not to keep that bowl of Halloween candy for trick or treaters anywhere within your pets reach, as it may be too tempting for pets to resist.
If your pet does eat chocolate, immediately call your vet or the Poison Control 1-800-222-1222. Post this number by your phone or on your refrigerator so it can be easily located in an emergency.
Other possible hazards include decorations that could be ingested, such as fake spiderwebs, as well as electric lights and jack-o-lantern candles.
4) "Scary lady in spandex make me want to get the heck out of here..."
Pets may also be spooked by people wearing costumes, and may try to escape or become aggressive. So be sure they are wearing their collar and pet identification tags or consider tucking them into their bed early in an enclosed room so they cannot run out the front door!
Did I forget anything? Share your ideas in the comments below and Happy Halloween!
Designer collars, faux-mink coats, doggie donuts―you may love the novelties, but do your pets really need ‘em? The bucks we spend on those little extras for our animal companions add up—and in fact, according to the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association, U.S. consumers spent over $36 billion on their animals in 2005.
“A tremendous amount of the growth in pet industry sales have probably been due to things people don’t really need for their pets,” says Dr. Stephen Zawistowski, Ph. D., Executive Vice President, ASPCA National Program Office. While it’s great to pamper Fifi and Fido, it’s also important to budget for the essentials. Otherwise, that couture pet carrier could leave you with empty pockets when the emergency veterinary bills come.
We checked in with Dr. Z. for his take on easy ways to cut pet care costs. “The basics are still the same,” he says. “Quality food, litter for cats and good medical care.” Bottom line? Stick with the basics, and remember—preventative measures are excellent money savers!
Go to the Vet! “A number-one money-saver is preventative veterinary care,” says Dr. Z. Annual veterinary exams can catch health crises early on and can save you a lot of time and money. This includes heartworm preventative treatment, flea and tick control, and a thorough check-up of your pet’s gums, teeth, heart, lungs and internal organs. If it’s been a year or more since your pet has seen a vet, make that appointment today!
Give Your Pet Regular Check-Ups Weekly home checkups are a great way to nip potential health problems in the bud. - Check under your pet’s fur for lumps, bumps, flakes or scabs. Check your pet’s ears and eyes for signs of redness or discharge. Make note of any changes in her eating or drinking habits. If something seems off, call your vet right away. - Learn how to clean your pet’s ears, especially if your dog is prone to ear infections. - Brush your pet’s teeth regularly with a toothpaste formulated for pets, and check his gums. In some cases, this can help prevent the need for dental cleanings, which can run up to $200 per visit. - Check your pet’s breath. Bad breath can indicate a digestive problem that’s better dealt with sooner rather than later.
Vaccinate Wisely “Although certain vaccines are required by law, there is no longer automatically one policy for all animals,” says Dr. Lila Miller, Vice President, ASPCA Veterinary Outreach. “Veterinarians are now advised to assess each individual animal's risk of exposure when designing a vaccination program.” So before subjecting your pet―and your wallet—to general vaccinations, ask your pet’s vet which vaccines he or she recommends.
Spay/Neuter Your Pets “Spaying and neutering your pet will have a dramatic impact on their health,” says Dr. Z. “For females, it dramatically reduces the potentiality for breast cancer, and ovarian and uterine cancer disappears.” Neutering also reduces chances of testicular cancer in males. Not only will spaying or neutering save you on future health care, but it will significantly diminish your pet’s desire to wander―and will save you the surprise of an unplanned litter. Check out the ASPCA’s Top Ten Reasons to Spay/ Neuter your pet.
Invest in Training “A lot of people don’t think about dog and cat training as a way to save money,” observes Dr. Z, “but a well-trained dog will be easier to walk, will be calmer in most situations and will be less likely to get into things he shouldn’t.” Teaching your dog to stay by your side and to come when he is called proves far cheaper than paying for expensive emergency care caused by his running off―possibly into the street―and eating items that he shouldn’t.
Consider Pet Insurance “One of the reasons why medical care has become so expensive,” explains Dr. Z, “is the recent growth spurt of procedures your pet can undergo―MRIs, cat scans, cancer treatments. Kidney transplants, though life-saving, are a $15,000 surgery that also typically requires the pet owner to adopt the donor animal.”
Accidents, too, can be costly. Pet insurance is one way to take some sting out of the bill. The cost of a policy typically runs about $300-$400 per year and many cover both regular and emergency visits. Get a free quote from the ASPCA’s Pet Insurance policy.
Save Up for the Future Pet Emergencies Invest the money you spend on toys and extra snacks into a fund for possible emergencies, and deposit a fixed amount into it every two weeks. If no emergencies arise, you’ll be all the richer, but if something does come up, money will not stand in the way of getting your pet the care she needs. Elderly Pet Care The great news is that pets are living longer, thanks to better nutrition and veterinary care. But this often entails more frequent trips to the vet, blood screenings tests, special food and medication. “Very often you see people bringing older pets into shelters because they are confronted with bills they can’t manage,” says Dr. Z. You can avoid an ambush of sudden bills by saving up while your pet is young. End-of-life care Caring for your pet at death could cost between $300 to $1,000, depending upon the services you choose. Some insurance policies cover the cost of euthanasia and cremation, but it is a smart idea to put aside a savings account that will cover those bills. This way you won’t have to haggle when the time comes.
Serve Healthy Food in Moderate Portions Buy premium-quality food “Buy a good, premium-quality dog or cat food,” advises Dr. Z. “Don’t go crazy,” he says, but remember that cheaper foods will set you back in the end. They are full of less digestible filler material and artificial colors that offer no nutrients and can contribute to allergies and digestive problems. A high-quality, age-appropriate food results in a healthy coat, more energy and fewer costly trips to the vet. Don’t overfeed This includes resisting the urge to spoil your pets with too many treats! “You don’t need to feed your pets as much as people do,” Dr. Z. reminds us. “One of the things we’re confronting is a huge obesity problem. Serving moderate portions not only saves you money on food ―it also reduces the likelihood of obesity.”
Shop Around Medications Call the local pharmacy or look online for lower prices. Just be sure to compare the same quantities and dosages when you’re looking at prices. Veterinarians and Hospitals When looking for a reliable, cost-effective veterinarian’s office, check out a few before you settle on one. Ask for recommendations from pet owners you know. Most vets’ offices also offer multi-pet or senior pet discounts. Compare fees and be sure to find out what is covered during a routine visit in each office. Pet Supplies Buy supplies online or in bulk. Just keep in mind that it’s wise to get product recommendations from your vet first. Online or store-bought products that you know nothing about could prove to be harmful or of poor quality. And if you rotate your pet’s toys, they’ll stay interested without you having to buy new ones every few months.
Groom Your Pets at Home - Save the price of a visit to your groomer with regular brushings. While you’re at it, you’ll reduce the hair around your home and your cats will have fewer hairballs. - Trim your pet’s nails on a regular basis. It’s not hard to do, and you’ll likely save yourself the cost of new furniture and curtains.
Still got visions of your dog gliding down the cat walk in a couture collar? Face it, your pet could probably care less whether she’s wearing Gucci. “A good quality leash and collar with a nylon braid should run you no more than $10 and should last for years,” advises Dr. Z. “You don’t need to buy all the fancy stuff.” Yes, your pets love toys and an occasional treat, but the best gift you can give to your furry loved one is your attention!
