All About Pets 2018

All
About

June 7, 2018 A Special Supplement to Halston Media

Fighting They’re part of the
Fleas & family too. Take them
Ticks along for the ride!

Treating pets facing Managing road trips with pets in tow this summer
flea & tick infestations

Keeping
off the Pet
Pounds

How to help pets maintain
healthy weights

NMeawhsopac 2
TRACKS

PAGE 2 – ALL ABOUT PETS – SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO HALSTON MEDIA – JUNE 7, 2018

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JUNE 7, 2018 – ALL ABOUT PETS – SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO HALSTON MEDIA – PAGE 3

All About TIPS

for socializing your pet

Treating pets Socializing pets from an early age is one way to raise friendly, well-behaved dogs.
facing flea
and tick Welcoming a new pet into a household involves introducing the animal to your lifestyle and help-
4 infestations ing it grow accustomed to your schedule. This process also involves acquainting the pet with the
people who visit your home on a regular basis.
4 Make vet visits easier on cats
5 How dogs benefit from daily walks One of the most important skills pets can learn is to be disciplined around strangers. Prospective
visitors to your home will not necessarily share your enthusiasm for animals, so well-behaved pets
can make such visits much more enjoyable for everyone.

Pets that are not socialized may be more anxious, timid or prone to lashing out with aggressive
behavior. Socialization of both cats and dogs — or any pet that is allowed to roam freely in your
home — is recommended. Here are some guidelines for success.

Managing road Cats Millan, the best window of time to socialize a dog
trips with pets Cats that are socialized are more likely to be is until it reaches 12 weeks of age. Afterward,
6 in tow trusting, affectionate, well-behaved, and calm. Ac- the dog is less likely to accept anything new or
cording to Catster, an online resource for cat own- unfamiliar.
7 Paleo food plans for today’s pets ers, the socialization process will be influenced
by the cat’s disposition and when the animal was Dog walking is one of the best ways to socialize
8 What to know about sharing a bed received. new puppies, but only after the dog has received
Begin by handling the cat in short sessions of its required immunizations. During walks, the dog
with pets around 10 to 15 minutes per day. The more you will be introduced to plenty of new sounds and
handle the cat, the more at ease the animal will people who will be excited to come up and say
The benefits of professional dog become around people. hello. This activity also works with older dogs.
groomers The cat will slowly realize that it can feel com- However, if your older dog exhibits aggressive
fortable and secure in the company of humans. behavior, try a muzzle to staunch barking and
How to help Once the cat is acclimated to general petting, nipping and a secure lead to help others feel
pets maintain begin to touch other areas of its body, including comfortable.
9 healthy weights its ears, feet, mouth, etc. Give a treat when he or
she behaves well. When you feel secure that the Socialized puppies need to have socializa-
10 Adapting to your new furry friend cat is receptive to your touch, begin to have other tion reinforced into adulthood. In her book, “The
people stroke or hold the cat, so that he or she Other End of the Leash,” applied animal behavior-
11 Pointers for apartment dwellers who grows accustomed to other people as well. ist Dr. Patricia McConnell mentions that dogs may
The ASPCA notes that cats like to observe be- go through a period in adolescence when they
want pets haviors and then invite themselves to participate become more cautious and perhaps aggressive
at their own pace. A cage or cattery can provide toward people and animals who are unfamiliar to
cats with unobstructed, comfortable and secure them. Continued exposure to new experiences
views to observe their homes. Perform calm can help, as can recognizing and addressing any
activities in front of the cage so the cat can watch. situations that make your dog weary.
Keep treats nearby so that if your pet engages
socially, you can reward it for positive behavior. The Humane Society of the United States says
that dogs should learn to act politely and quietly
Dogs when encountering other dogs. Many adult dogs
Many people view dogs as more social animals do not enjoy socializing with multiple dogs at
than cats, but that’s not always the case. Puppies once, and dogs should not be forced to meet ev-
that do not receive adequate opportunities for ery new dog they come across during walks.
early socialization with humans or other animals Social time with other dogs can come by way of
may be fearful of strangers and other animals and walks and gentle introductions to another dog
prefer to hide instead of coming out and greeting with loose leashes, but only if both pets
new people and other animals. feel comfortable.
According to canine behavioral expert Cesar
Dogs and cats should be taught that being
friendly with people and other pets is accept-
able behavior. Start slowly and reinforce lessons
frequently.

PAGE 4 – ALL ABOUT PETS – SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO HALSTON MEDIA – JUNE 7, 2018

Treating pets facing flea and
tick infestations

Pet owners love many Fleas are especially prevalent Identifying symptoms of flea problems in cats may differ from to remove any immature fleas
things about having com- in warm, humid areas. Ticks or tick infestations on dogs or those used to treat flea and and their food sources.
panion animals. But flea tend to be active in warmer cats is relatively easy. Scratch- tick problems for dogs, so they
and tick infestations are probably weather as well. Fleas and ticks ing and biting of irritated areas shouldn’t be used interchange- • Check pets regularly for
not on the list of things pet own- live outdoors and prefer grassy is often the first indication of a ably. Also, follow the instructions pests and groom them fre-
ers love about their furry friends. and forested areas. They need flea problem. Pet owners usual- from the veterinarian or manu- quently.
moisture and prefer to stay out of ly notice ticks when petting their facturer carefully so as not to
Few pets will go their lifetimes direct sunlight. Both seek warm, animal and feeling a strange overmedicate the pet. • Look for fleas and ticks after
without experiencing fleas and/ dark humid places. Fleas can bump. On occasion, ticks are coming in from outdoors.
or ticks. Understanding com- wait out winter indoors. discovered while crawling on To catch fleas and ticks before
mon flea and tick behaviors can the pet’s fur, before they have they become problematic, and in • Mow lawns each week and
help pet owners better handle Fleas and ticks are especially latched on to the animal. conjunction with using medica- remove any lawn and garden
infestations. skilled at attaching themselves tions, follow these additional tips. debris.
to companion animals. Fleas The Animal Health Institute
Fleas and ticks do more than can leap quite far. Revival advises combatting flea and tick • Wash pet bedding on high Though flea and tick infesta-
just create irritating skin ailments Animal Health says fleas can populations with pesticides and heat regularly. tions can be unhealthy and un-
for dogs and cats. Fleas and leap vertically up to 7 inches and repellents. Growth inhibitors also comfortable for pets, pet owners
ticks also can transmit diseases horizontally as far as 13 inches. are included in the options for • Clean your home thoroughly can take steps to prevent such
to pets and even people. There Fleas can easily hop onto dogs, flea and tick control. Powders, problems.
are more than 850 species of tick cats or even humans passing by. spot-on liquids, collars, and pills
and 1,600 species of flea identi- While ticks cannot leap, they are may be used as well. Veterinar-
fied around the world. The main excellent climbers. Many ticks ians can best assess which flea
goal of these parasites is to suck will attach to a lower extremity on or tick product will be best for a
the blood of their hosts in order an animal and then climb slowly specific animal.
to reproduce. Both fleas and until they reach the preferred
ticks can survive months to even location for latching on. Keep in mind that formula-
a year or more without feeding. tions for treating flea and tick

Make vet visits easier on cats

Some pets handle trips to Make the carrier a place comfortable about entering the room. Instead, keep cats in their Doing so can save you and the
the veterinarian better cats can feel comfortable carrier. Covering carriers with carriers, maintaining eye contact vet some time, while also reduc-
than others. Animals used in. The AAFP advises that cat towels also may soothe cats’ and speaking to them in soft ing the amount of time your cat
to car trips or spending ample owners should always transport anxiety, preventing them from tones to calm their nerves. spends out of its comfort zone.
time among other animals might their cats in a carrier so trips seeing the unfamiliar.
not hesitate to get in the car for are as safe as possible. Place Prepare for the vet visit Cats may be hesitant to leave
routine vet visits, while pets that a small blanket or toy inside, Give yourself time to get in advance. The more time their homes, but cat owners can
don’t often socialize with other and keep the carrier in an area cats ready to go. It can take cats spend in the vet’s office, the take several steps to make vet
animals may be more resistant of your home where cats feel time to get cats on board with more restless they may become. visits more pleasant.
when it’s time for their routine comfortable. Doing so encour- the idea of getting into their Save time and reduce
medical checkups. ages cats to see the carrier as a carriers. Allow yourself enough the chances your cat will
safe haven. If they do, then they time to calmly get your cat into suffer an anxiety attack by
Frisky felines may experience will be less likely to resist their its carrier. Rushing things may preparing for the visit in
some anxiety when leaving the owners’ efforts to get them into only increase the cat’s exist- advance. Prepare a list of
house, and that anxiety may the carrier in advance of their vet ing anxiety, and that can create questions for the vet and
only increase upon arriving at visits. Another way to make the problems at the vet’s office and write down any abnormali-
the vet’s office. While cats may carrier more inviting is to spray set a bad precedent for future ties regarding your frisky
never be excited by trips to the the carrier with Feliway® roughly visits. friend’s behavior when ap-
vet, the American Association of 30 minutes before the cat needs plicable. If your vet is will-
Feline Practitioners offers the fol- to enter the carrier. Feliway Keep cats in their car- ing, you may even want
lowing advice to cat owners who simulates cat pheromones riers upon arriving at the to email him or her such
want to make their cats’ vet visits and can make a cat feel more veterinarian’s office. Do not questions and concerns
go as smoothly as possible. remove cats from their carriers in advance of the visit.
while sitting in the vet’s waiting

JUNE 7, 2018 – ALL ABOUT PETS – SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO HALSTON MEDIA – PAGE 5

How dogs benefit from daily walks

Dog owners with fenced-in back- walks can help dog owners instill better tion to stay healthy and happy. Walks on walks, and that’s mentally stimulating.
yards may think their furry friends behavior in their dogs. The AHS advises obviously provide physical stimulation, but Resist the temptation to pull the leash
are getting all they need dur- that owners of older dogs use walks as op- they can stimulate dogs mentally as well. when dogs want to stop to check some-
ing their nightly exercise sessions in the portunities to teach dogs to behave calmly Dogs often interrupt walks when their thing out, affording them a little time to do
backyard. While such yards provide safe in public. Bring treats to reward dogs for curiosity gets the better of them, stopping some mental exploration before continu-
places for dogs to relax and run around, sitting quietly when encountering other to observe or investigate something while ing the walk.
the American Humane Association (www. dogs and new people along the walk.
americanhumane.org) notes that even
dogs who run wild in their backyards each Exercise: Of course, daily walks
day can benefit from daily walks. The fol- provide great exercise for dogs. Dogs
lowing are a handful of ways dogs benefit who are let out in the backyard each night
from daily walks. but are not played with may not be getting
the exercise their owners think they are.
Socialization: The Animal Humane Dogs left alone in a backyard may briefly
Society (animalhumanesociety.org) notes run around before plopping down in the
that puppies between three weeks and grass and enjoying the fresh air. That’s
20 weeks old are generally accepting of not enough exercise for many breeds,
other dogs, and nightly walks can provide and it’s certainly insufficient for dogs who
the perfect opportunity for puppy owners may be overweight or obese. Nightly
to acquaint their furry friends with their walks can help dogs lose and/or maintain
fellow dogs. Continued exposure after 20 healthy weights, and the AHA notes that
weeks can help further the socialization such walks also help dogs build strength
process for young dogs. and endurance.

Behavior: While puppies can learn to Stimulation: According to the Ameri-
socialize on daily walks, older dogs may or can Kennel Club (www.akc.org), dogs
may not reap the same rewards. But daily need both physical and mental stimula-

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PAGE 6 – ALL ABOUT PETS – SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO HALSTON MEDIA – JUNE 7, 2018

Managing road trips with pets in tow

Family vacations provide opportu- listed on pets’ collars are the numbers harnessed in the back seat at all times, When planning your road trip, confirm that
nities for parents and their chil- where you can be reached while on va- never letting the animal hang its head any hotels you plan to stay in accept pets.
dren to unwind and make memo- cation and not just landline home phone out the window while the car is in motion.
ries that last a lifetime. Such excursions numbers. Family vacations may not be complete
can be made even more memorable Pack some travel items. Human without the family pets joining in the fun.
when taking the family pet. Prepare your pet. In the weeks beings tend to bring snacks and bever- But it’s important for pet owners to plan
before the trip, pet owners should start ages along on road trips, and such items ahead when taking their furry friends on
Traveling with animals in tow is not as to prepare their pets for the trip by taking are necessary for pets, too. Pack water, vacation.
simple as beckoning the family pet to the them on short drives. Lengthen each of food and some snacks for pets, but
car when it’s time to hit the open road. these mini trips so you can build up a never feed them in a moving car. Take
The American Society for the Prevention travel tolerance in your pet and acquaint some time to feed pets at rest stops. The
of Cruelty to Animals notes that travel the animal with car travel before vacation ASPCA advises feeding pets a light meal
can be stressful for both pet owners and begins. three to four hours before beginning the
their pets. To help ease that stress and trip and serving pets only bottled water to
ensure all members of the family, includ- Purchase appropriate travel reduce the risk of stomach problems.
ing those covered in fur, have a great gear. Some pet owners cannot imagine In addition to food and water, pack some
time on vacation, the ASPCA offers the making long road trips with their pets in toys to keep pets occupied during the
following tips to pet owners taking their crates. But crating pets during road trips trip. Such toys can also calm animals’
animals on road trips. is entirely possible without making pets anxiety by providing them with some-
uncomfortable. The ASPCA advises pur- thing familiar.
Check and update your pet’s chasing crates that are large enough to
collar. Even if pets are microchipped, allow pets to stand, sit, lie down and turn Do not leave pets alone in the
it’s important to make sure they wear col- around. It’s also important to secure the car. Leaving pets alone in a car is unsafe
lars imprinted with their owners’ names, crate so it does not slide around in case no matter what the temperature is out-
phone numbers, email addresses and of sudden stops or when driving on curvy side. Pets are susceptible to heatstroke
any additional relevant contact informa- roads. Pet owners who don’t want to when left in hot cars and can freeze to
tion. Make sure the phone numbers put their pets in crates should keep pets death when left in cars during winter.

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descendents from their wild focus largely on items that were available
ancestors, who did not wait before agriculture was widely available. Going on Vacation?
around for their owners to use openers to Such foods include meat, fish, eggs, Does your dog need a play day?
crack open cans of processed food. Wild mushrooms, nuts, fruits, and occasionally
animals’ eating habits are much different honey. Grains, dairy and processed foods We treat your pet like family.
from the dietary routines of household are not. Paleo diets include raw, unpro-
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movement promoting paleo diets for pets. www.smkennels.com
While there are many advocates of pa-
Advocates of the paleo diet for pets leo diets, some people take issue with raw
say that the number of pets struggling pet food diets, warn public health veterinar-
with obesity and chronic disease could be ians, like those at the Minnesota Depart-
a byproduct of unhealthy eating habits. ment of Health in St. Paul. Some may not
Household pets tend to spend ample time be balanced for pets, and raw foods may
indoors and are subjected to many of the contain pathogens, such as salmonella
same stressors as their owners, many of and others. That’s why many vets advise
whom feed their pets processed foods out cooking pets’ foods. Even if dogs or cats
of convenience. Owners who want to ex- themselves do not get sick from raw foods,
ercise greater control over their pets’ diets they may pass pathogens on to their own-
and see their furry friends eat healthier ers through their waste.
are increasingly turning to paleo diets for
their pets. Pet owners may find that a combination
of the paleo diet and more traditional pet
According to Dr. Jean Hofve, author of foods works best for their pets. Dogs and
“Paleo Dog: Give Your Best Friend a Long cats have evolved and may be adept at
Life, Healthy Weight, and Freedom from eating a more varied diet. Include grain-free
Illness by Nurturing His Inner Wolf,” the options and supplement with meats that
paleo diet traces its origins to the Paleo- have been grilled or poached so that patho-
lithic Era, when a hunter-gatherer society gens are killed. This can strike a balance
was predominant. Some refer to paleo that serves pets and their owners well.

Did you know?

According to the American Lung Association, pet dander is composed of tiny
flecks of skin shed by cats, dogs, rodents, birds and other animals with fur or
feathers. While pet dander is so small it’s sometimes microscopic, it can still
cause reactions in people who are allergic to pet dander. But skin is not the only
potential allergen associated with pets. Pets may cause allergic reactions in some
people thanks to various proteins found in the saliva, urine and feces from cats,
dogs and other pets. Dried saliva containing allergens may flake off from animal
fur and enter the air, where it can be inhaled by people and trigger an allergic
reaction. That might be one reason why, according to the ALA, nearly twice as
many people report allergies to cats compared to dogs. Cats often clean them-
selves by licking their own fur. Any dried saliva left on cats after these cleaning
sessions may contain allergens that eventually flake off of that fur before entering
the air and being inhaled by people who are allergic. While it might seem odd
that a tiny cat can trigger a reaction that causes such significant discomfort, the
amount of allergens necessary to trigger allergic reactions varies greatly from
individual to individual, with some being capable of handling small amounts and
others experiencing reactions almost instantly upon inhalation.

PAGE 8 – ALL ABOUT PETS – SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO HALSTON MEDIA – JUNE 7, 2018

What to know The benefits
about sharing a of professional
bed with pets dog groomers

Pets provide companionship for about the same disturbances. In a study Grooming is something few dog groomers do this every day without cut-
thousands of people around from the Mayo Clinic Sleep Disorders owners may consider before ting the quick.
the world, so it is understand- Center, 53 percent of those pet owners bringing man’s best friend
able that pet owners want to be around surveyed said their pets disturbed their into their homes. But grooming is an Appearance: Human beings like
their companion animals as much as sleep in some way each night. Dogs important component of dog ownership to look good, and dog owners like their
possible — with many even welcoming that snore and cats that chase “prey” that keeps pooches healthy and looking dogs to look good as well. Experienced
them into their beds. around the room can disturb their own- their best. professional groomers know how to
ers’ sleep. style dogs’ hair in ways that make the
According to PetMd, an online animal Some dogs are more cooperative dogs look good and feel comfortable.
healthcare resource, around 80 percent Pro: A deeper connection forms be- than others during grooming sessions. Different breeds of dog require different
of pet owners allow pets to share beds tween pet and owner. Many pets like to Likewise, some dog owners are ap- grooming supplies, and professional
with human family members. Data from be around their owners because it gives prehensive about grooming their dogs, groomers will have all the tools neces-
the American Pet Products Association them reassurance and comfort that they knowing that dogs can easily be hurt sary for particular breeds.
has found at least half of all pet parents are loved. Animals that were rescued during the grooming process. Profes-
allow pets to sleep with them every or are anxiety prone may be especially sional dog groomers can make groom- Long-term health: Even the most
night. Whether this is safe, healthy or comforted by snuggling in bed with their ing that much more comfortable for attentive dog owner may not notice
wise is a matter of debate. owners. Happy pets often make for uneasy dogs and owners while provid- certain signs that suggest a dog may
happy owners. ing a host of additional benefits. be sick or developing a condition that
There are pros and cons to sharing can threaten its long-term health. Dog
a bed with pets. Understanding those Con: It may cause behavioral prob- Safety: One of the troubles own- groomers deal with dogs every day and
pros and cons can help pet owners lems. Dogs in particular may mistake ers experience when grooming dogs are in a great position to recognize any
make more informed decisions. sleeping in their owners’ beds as a sign on their own is that dogs tend to move abnormalities that may be indicative of
of dominance. Some veterinarians sug- around a lot when getting their hair a larger problem. Owners may not no-
Pro: Get into a relaxed state. Com- gest puppies that are more prone to is- trimmed. Unlike humans who rest easy tice rashes, lesions, skin discoloration
panion animals can help relieve stress, sues with aggression may fully develop in barber or salon chairs and let their or lumps right away, but dog groomers,
which may translate into better sleep for these behaviors if allowed to sleep with hairdressers ply their trade, dogs tend especially those who have groomed
their owners. Some people find that the humans. At the very least, it is advise- to fidget or move around during hair- particular dogs in the past, may be
rhythmic breathing of dogs or cats can able to wait until dogs are trained and cuts, and even the slightest movement more likely to notice such irregularities.
help lull them to sleep. exhibiting good behavior for extended can lead to cuts or scratches that can This can provide an important safety
periods of time before allowing them to hurt dogs and make them even more net between grooming sessions and vet
Con: Possible transmission of ill- sleep in their owners’ beds. nervous. Professional dog groomers visits.
ness or zoonotic agents. Snuggling so are well-versed in cutting the hair of
close to a pet may put people at risk Pro: It’s a sign of trust. According fidget-prone pooches and know how to Dog owners want their dogs to be
of acquiring illnesses that are trans- to Victoria Stilwell, an internationally calm dogs so they can enjoy pain-free happy and healthy, and professional
mitted from animal to human. In the renowned dog trainer, dogs only sleep haircuts. groomers can help make that happen.
past, MRSA skin infections and H1N1 with the people or dogs they trust.
influenza have been transferred from Therefore, dogs who like sleeping Nail trimming: Trimming dogs’ nails
pets to people. with their owners are exhibiting serves multiple purposes. Nails that are
trust and recognizing the same from not trimmed can break, and such breaks
Pro: Pets are warm. If the goal is to their owners. can make dogs more susceptible to in-
get cozy under the covers, animals can fection. In addition, nails that are allowed
provide a little extra warmth, as their Whether or not to allow dogs or cats to grow too long can be painful to pooch-
body temperatures run a few degrees to share personal spaces like beds is es, pushing the nail into the nail bed and
warmer than their owners’. a decision pet owners have to make. It creating pressure on the toe joints. But
should be based on safety, comfort and trimming dogs’ nails is not as simple as
Con: An extra body in bed can disturb mutual agreement with any other bed trimming humans’, as dogs’ nails contain
sleep. Just as individuals may have partners. nerves and blood vessels referred to as
trouble with a spouse or a child being the “quick.” When the quick is cut, dogs
in the bed next to them, pets can bring can experience significant pain and even
bleed. The potential for that outcome is
one reason many dog owners are hesi-
tant to trim their dogs’ nails. Professional

JUNE 7, 2018 – ALL ABOUT PETS – SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO HALSTON MEDIA – PAGE 9

How to help pets maintain healthy weights

Like their human companions, for an animal’s activity level may opportunities to get accurate as- Reduce caloric intake accord-
pets can struggle with their contribute to weight gain. sessments of pets’ weights. Vets ingly until pets reach the weight
weight. According to the Asso- can conduct visual assessments vets recommend. When pets are
ciation for Pet Obesity Preven- Is my pet too heavy? to determine if pets are maintain- already overweight, adhering to
tion, in 2014, an estimated 53 Many pet owners miss signs ing healthy weights while also guidelines on food packaging
percent of dogs and 58 percent that their pets are maintaining sharing information about the may make it difficult for pets to
of cats in the United States were unhealthy weights. Pet owners ideal weight for your particular lose weight.
overweight or obese. may have a distorted perception animal.
Being overweight or obese can of just what qualifies as a healthy Exercise is another key to
shorten pets’ lives by increasing weight, thinking a few extra Cats’ and dogs’ waists should healthy weight loss. Dogs can go
pounds make for a robust pet. be visible when viewed from out for walks or engage in other
their risk for insulin resistance, But those extra pounds could be above. If your pet seems thick aerobic activity, such as playing
type 2 diabetes, high blood causing substantial harm to cats in the middle, chances are he games of fetch. It can be more
pressure, kidney disease, and dogs. or she can stand to lose some challenging to get cats to exercise.
cancer, and osteoarthritis. The APOP lists healthy weight. Toys that play into a feline’s preda-
The APOP estimates that weight guidelines for cats and tory nature, such as things they
unhealthy weights dogs. Cats are easily weighed Increasing activity have or she has to hunt or chase,
can shave up to 2.5 by weighing yourself and then Exercise and healthy eating may inspire cats to move more.
years off of pets’ weighing yourself while holding are the keys to getting cats and
lives. the cat. Subtract your weight, and dogs to shed some pounds (ani- Overweight pets need exercise
Sedentary life- then you will know how much the mals suffering from illness may and changes to their diets in
styles and overeat- cat weighs. Dogs require larger need to pursue other avenues order to lose weight and extend
ing can contribute scales, and this is something best to weight loss). Ask the vet how their life expectancies. Consult
to weight gain in cats handled at a veterinarian’s office. much your pet needs to lose your veterinarian for advice on
and dogs. In addition, Wellness visits provide more and the role that diet can play in how to help pets shed pounds
choosing the wrong foods helping your pet to lose weight. they can keep off for years to
come.

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PAGE 10 – ALL ABOUT PETS – SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO HALSTON MEDIA – JUNE 7, 2018

Adapting to your new furry friend

Adopting a dog is a wonderful way before dogs arrive can make that adjust- her. Examine your own schedule and rec- dog grows more comfortable, you can then
to bring joy into a home, and adop- ment even easier for the dog. Dogs might ognize that you might need to make some invite one or two friends over at a time and
tion may very well save a dog’s be nervous and under significant stress changes to accommodate your new house- start taking the dog to the park as well.
life. According to the Humane Society of the when entering a new home for the first mate. Stick to the same daily feeding, walk-
United States, between six and eight million time, so prepare the area where the dog ing and socializing schedule, which should Take note of any irregularities. Some
pets end up in shelters each year and half will be spending most of its time. Remove acclimate the dog more quickly. Another shelter dogs come from abusive situa-
of those are unlikely to be adopted. items that curious pooches may break, benefit to adhering to the same schedule is tions, and the effects of those situations
and don’t forget to move household clean- the dog will grow accustomed to relieving may still be lingering. While it’s perfectly
Adjusting to life with a dog is not always ers from floor cabinets to high shelves so itself at the same time each day, reducing reasonable to use leashes when walk-
easy. Owning a dog is a big responsibility, dogs won’t ingest anything harmful. Have the likelihood of potentially messy acci- ing dogs, recognize that some dogs may
the scope of which first-time dog owners a crate ready for the dog if you plan to dents that no dog owner wants to clean up. associate leashes or other objects with
may not fully grasp until their furry friends crate him or her so you don’t have to in- past abuse. In such instances, speak with
arrive at their new homes for the first time. troduce it after the pet has already grown Keep things calm. A hectic household your veterinarian about the best ways to
But there are ways to make the transition to acclimated to its new living arrangements. might make it difficult for the dog to adjust, address these irregularities, and always
dog ownership go smoothly, which should so remain calm and encourage other resi- exercise patience as your dog adjusts to
afford new dog owners more time to spend Prepare and stick to a schedule. Dogs dents to do the same until the dog seems his or her new surroundings.
with the newest additions to their families. benefit from routine, so before bringing comfortable in its new surroundings. If nec-
your dog home figure out when you are essary, limit visitors to your home and steer Shelter dogs often make great com-
Prepare your home before Fido’s ar- going to feed and walk the dog, and which clear of the dog park or other places where panion animals, and owners should afford
rival. While many dogs adjust quickly to times of day you plan to play with him or the dog might become overexcited. As the their new dogs ample time to adjust to
their new homes, preparing the home their new home.

Did you According to the pet adoption service Petfinder, dogs chase their tails for various reasons. Some dogs may be curious about the
know? appendage or have a predatory instinct, while others may chase their tails just to get some exercise. Tail-chasing may also be a nervous
tick that’s indicative of the dog’s anxiety. Flea infestation is another reason dogs may chase their tails. Some dogs may believe they can
alleviate itchiness from flea bites by latching onto their tails. Dog owners concerned about excessive tail-chasing should discuss those
concerns with their veterinarian, who may offer insight as to why the dog is chasing its tail and how to reduce that chasing in the future.

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JUNE 7, 2018 – ALL ABOUT PETS – SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO HALSTON MEDIA – PAGE 11

Pointers for apartment dwellers who want pets

Animal lovers who want Animal lovers who rent but animal shelters may keep a list sure it clearly spells out that pet-related damage when you
to welcome pets in their want pets may need to move out of pet-friendly properties, or you you are allowed to have a pet. move out.
homes may be hesitant of their current apartments be- can contact local realtors who can Read any restrictions regarding
to do so while renting. Some fore they can welcome pets into help you find buildings that allow the type of pet and the size of Do your homework. If you have
might not want to pay additional their families. As that process pets. The earlier you begin your pet you’re allowed to have. For never before owned a pet, then
fees on top of their normal secu- begins, renters can take steps search, the more time you will give example, many landlords who speak with a local veterinarian re-
rity deposits, while others may to ensure they find a place both yourself to find a place that has allow dogs will only allow dogs garding your work schedule, your
fear that pets will cause dam- they and their future pets will find everything you need. If you delay up to a certain weight. If you living arrangements and your
age to homes their owners don’t welcoming. your search, you may have to have your heart set on a Great expectations as a pet owner. The
own, leading to potentially costly settle for a place that’s pet-friendly Dane, then an apartment that HSUS notes that problems with
repairs down the road. Rent- Start your apartment search but fails to meet your other criteria. only allows dogs that weight 25 housing are the leading reason
ers should know that it’s both earlier than you otherwise might. lbs. or less won’t be a good fit. pets end up homeless. While no
possible and even common for Many landlords do not accept Get it in writing. Before signing Read the terms regarding pets pet owner envisions taking their
people who rent to have pets. pets, so expect the search for a a lease, read it carefully to make pets to a shelter and giving the
pet-friendly apartment carefully so you know animals up for adoption, such
According to the Humane to be more involved exactly what you can and scenarios play out every day.
Society of the United States, than it would be if you cannot have and exactly By speaking with vets and local
72 percent of American families did not intend to get a how much you will have to pet professionals, you can adopt
who rent their homes have pets. pet. As a result, start pay to bring pets into your the right pet for you and your
While it might take a little extra your search earlier than new home. If there are apartment, greatly reducing the
work to find pet-friendly apart- you have in the past, no terms regarding pets in chances that you will be forced to
ments, the lasting rewards of pet giving yourself as much the lease, ask that specific give the pet up in the future.
ownership could outweigh any time as possible to find terms be added before you
brief hurdles renters may have a pet-friendly apart- sign. Doing so will protect For more pointers on renting and
to clear as they search for pet- ment that also meets you down the road should pet ownership, visit the HSUS at
friendly living arrangements. your other needs. Local the landlord discover any www.humanesociety.org.

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PAGE 12 – ALL ABOUT PETS – SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO HALSTON MEDIA – JUNE 7, 2018

WE RUN WE JUMP WE NAP WE PLAY

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[email protected]

395 Route 6, Mahopac, NY 10541