Pets – Our Family Members
THIS IS “JETTY’S PLACE” – WELCOME!!
PLEASE READ THIS BEFORE YOU CONTACT US:
DISCLAIMER
Homeless To Independence Inc. is a 501©3 non-profit organization. We are self supporting and we do NOT receive any government grant funding what-so-ever to pay bills for anyone in any situation. We do not give away money. We do not give out loans against any money.
This ministry is supported with generous financial donations that are used to help keep us functioning. Our purpose is to help supply individuals and families with personal needs such as food, toiletries, clothing, household items, furniture and baby/adult diapers/wipes both locally and to areas effected by disasters . At this time, we do not offer any shelter or transitional housing services. Again, we DO NOT pay any bills. We DO NOT pay any rents or mortgages.
If you are actually homeless, or about to be homeless or need emergency assistance of any kind, DIAL “211” from a land-line telephone. This will not work from a cell telephone. Tell the receiver your situation and what you need. They will give you information specific for the location you are currently in plus any referrals you may need. They have the most up to the minute information for your specific area. Dialing “211” will get you help and much more info than this office can provide. Homeless to Independence wants you to have all the information you need to get through the situation you are in.
Don’t have a land-line telephone??? Go to your local police department, library, or house of worship and ask to use their land-line telephone. They may even make the call on your behalf.
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2. CHOOSE YOUR STATE/COMMONWEALTH/TERRITORY;
3. CHOOSE THAT STATE/COMMONWEALTH/TERRITORY’S EMPLOYMENT PAGE.
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Homeless To Independence Inc. is not responsible for misprints or cancellations of events by the event holders, landlord and/or their agent, or ourselves. Homeless to Independence Inc. also reserves the right to “NOT” offer services to people and/or persons that are rude, unpleasant, and untruthful in any way shape or form, belligerent and the like.
OCCASIONALLY, THERE WILL BE ARTICLES BY OTHER WRITERS. HOMELESS TO INDEPENDENCE MAY NOT NECESSARILY AGREE WITH THEIR VIEWPOINTS, BUT WE DO RESPECT THEM. THANK YOU FOR YOUR COOPERATION!
OFFICE CONTACT INFO:
HOMELESS TO INDEPENDENCE INC., 201 STATION ROAD #258, QUAKERTOWN, PA 18951
THE VERY BEST WAY TO CONTACT ME IS TO SEND ME AN EMAIL: ANN@HOMELESSTOINDEPENDENCE.ORG
OFFICE NUMBER IS: 1-908-454-1500 LISTEN TO THE RECORDING
Please note that our office does have very limited volunteer staff and if we are one telephone line we cannot answer the other line. There is simply not enough time in the day to answer and/or return each and every telephone call.
THANK YOU!!!
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PET FOOD and MORE DEALS
Pet Food Product Deals 12-24-23
Updated 12-24-23
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Winterizing a Dog Kennel
Authored by Tractor Supply Company
Keeping your furry family members warm in winter requires a common-sense approach. Some larger dogs, like Newfies, St. Bernards and Huskies enjoy colder temperatures and often have more energy and playfulness during the winter months. However, other breeds like Chihuahuas and pugs may be perfectly spending snowy days on a warm blanket inside the house.
But even dogs with heavy winter coats can suffer from harsh conditions if kept outside without proper protection. Understanding your pet’s breed, coat, overall health and preference for warm or cold temperatures can help you choose the type of winterizing best suited to your dog’s individual needs. Use the following guidelines to create a warm and safe environment for your outdoor dog in winter:
1. Shelter
Providing the right kind of shelter is the first and most important step to winterizing your dog’s kennel. Although your dog may spend part of its time indoors during the harshest of winter months, having a warm and dry dog house inside the kennel gives your furry family member a place to go when the weather is at its worst. Plastic dog houses hold up well in the snow and rain, but no dog house should be without ventilation. Look for models with vent holes near the top of the dog house to keep out drafts and excess winds. Wooden dog houses should be off the ground a few inches to guard against a wet floor and wood rot. Wooden houses should also have shingled or plastic roofs to protect from leaks or damage. Many new dog houses come with foam insulation built in for extra warmth. Even if your dog’s house is insulated, he’ll enjoy plenty of soft bedding or a blanket or two.
2. Dog run
Dogs that stay outside most of the winter won’t be content just to sit around in a dog house tucked inside a kennel. Dogs need year-round exercise and stimulation to keep them healthy, even though their activity levels will naturally diminish as the weather gets colder. Providing your dog with a dry place to run is important for his overall health during the winter. Adding a cover over the kennel keeps the ground clean and dry during cold winter days and provides extra protection for your dog’s house. If possible, consider adding an extra section of fencing to increase your dog’s winter play area. Just make sure the entire dog run is covered by a leak-proof roof or kennel cover. For additional protection from snow, wind, and rain, add ventilated windscreens to the sides of the kennel. These windscreens also provide shade from the direct sun which is necessary even in the winter.
3. Bedding
Hay might seem like the natural choice for kennel bedding, but it can actually lead to flea infestations, parasites and certain types of mange. A better choice is pine or cedar shavings. Shavings of this kind are soft, comfortable to lie on, absorb moisture and help control odor. Wood shavings are also environmentally safe, easy to dispose of and naturally repel fleas and other insects. Never use wood shavings of any kind with pregnant dogs or newborn puppies. Certain types of bacteria found in some wood shavings can be dangerous for whelping females and their puppies. Along with wood shavings, consider adding one or two old blankets or towels to your dog’s house. Towels and blankets are great for cuddling in the cold and are also easy to remove and wash for better hygiene. Make sure to replace wet or soiled shavings with dry ones as soon as possible.
Winter dog care
Along with proper winterization of your dog’s kennel and house, good nutrition and access to clean, fresh water are especially important during the winter months. If your dog stays outdoors all the time in the winter, you must check and refresh the water several times each day. Water freezes over quickly in cold temperatures, so make sure your dog gets a good drink as soon as the water is refilled. Check your dog’s paws regularly for signs of dryness or cracking of the paw pads. Inspect, rinse or wipe your dog’s feet to get rid of harmful salt or other chemical residues especially after a walk, and keep foot hair well trimmed to avoid snow or ice build-up between paw pads. Also, check your dog’s coat periodically for mats or hair loss. Hair loss can be a sign of stress or poor diet at any time of year.
Adding a coat supplement to your dog’s food can help. And if your dog seems to have a stronger aroma during the winter, don’t worry. The less a dog is bathed the more like a dog he’ll smell, and bathing dogs often in the winter can lead to dry skin. A healthy coat is your dog’s best defense against the winter cold.
Tractor Supply Co has your pet covered when it comes to staying warm and healthy all year long. Choose from our complete line of dog houses, kennels, dog runs, food and supplements to keep your furry friend fully protected from whatever winter dishes out.
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How to Build a Pet First Aid Kit
Authored by Jodi Helmer
No one likes to see their pet in pain. But, for curious cats and adventurous dogs, accidents and illnesses can happen.
Stomach issues, ear infections, joint pain and strains and eye abrasions are among the top reasons pets go to the vet each year. Since pet injuries and illnesses are unpredictable, it’s important to be prepared.
A pet first kit that is well-stocked with supplies can help you treat your four-legged companion for everything from minor cuts and splinters to upset stomachs. In honor of National Pet First Aid Awareness Month, set aside time to create a pet first aid kit.
Here are the essentials to include in your pet first aid kit:
- Antibiotic ointment to apply to minor cuts and scrapes to help prevent infection
- Antihistamine medication to treat allergic reactions*
- Bandage tape for securing gauze
- Cotton balls to clean wounds or apply liquid medications
- Digital thermometer to check temperatures
- Disposable gloves to keep wounds clean
- Hydrogen peroxide to induce vomiting*
- Food and treats to reward pets during and after treatment
- Gauze pads to control bleeding, clean wounds or apply topical medications
- Leash and collar to safely restrain pets
- Medications that your pet is currently taking
- Muzzle to prevent an injured and afraid pet from biting
- Oral syringe to administer oral medications or flush wounds
- Pet first aid handbook to review proper procedures for treating illness and injuries
- Poop bags to clean up diarrhea and vomit or dispose of used gauze and other supplies
- Scissors to cut bandages or remove collars, leashes or other hazards
- Self-adhering bandage wrap can be used to secure gauze in place without tape. It’s sometimes called VetWrap.
- Small flashlight for improved visibility in low light conditions
- Styptic powder to stop bleeding
- Sterile saline solution to clean wounds.
- Towels or blankets to keep your pet warm, clean up messes or provide comfort or use to swaddle your pet to keep them pet during treatment
- Tweezers to remove splinters and other foreign objects
- Wet wipes to clean your dog. Choose products designed for dogs
- Water and a collapsible bowl to provide hydration or clean wounds
- Waterproof bag to store all of the first aid supplies
Your pet first aid kit should also include copies of important paperwork like vaccination records, list of pet allergies and current medications. Contact information for your vet, 24-hour animal poison control hotline and the nearest 24-hour emergency vet clinics is also essential. Remember, if there is an emergency, you may not have access to your phone so keeping paper records is important.
You can also store information—along with complete copies of your pet’s medical records—on a USB device and keeping it in your pet first aid kit. The emergency vet clinics will be better able to treat your pets if they know their full medical histories.
Whether you purchase a pet first aid kit filled with all of the essentials or create a DIY version, consider buying (or making) an extra.
It’s a good idea to have a larger pet first aid kit stocked with more supplies that can be stored at home or in the car as well as a smaller kit stocked with the bare minimum supplies like gauze, self-adhering bandage wrap, alcohol swabs, antiseptic wipes, antibiotic ointment and tweezers. These “adventure first aid kits” can be tucked into your backpack for hiking, hunting or camping adventures.
Check your pet first aid kit twice a year to ensure that supplies are well-stocked and items like hydrogen peroxide and antihistamines haven’t expired.
Along with stocking essential first aid items, consider signing up for a pet first aid class to learn hands-on skills that could be lifesaving if you need to provide immediate treatment. Ask your veterinarian about local classes.
A pet first aid kit provides peace of mind that you’re prepared if your four-legged friend is sick or injured and can allow you to help your pet feel more comfortable until you can see a veterinarian for professional care.
* Always call your veterinarian or poison control center before inducing vomiting or offering over-the-counter medications to get advice on dosages.
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Why are Dogs Scared of Fireworks?
Fireworks are a fun and exciting way to celebrate holidays like Independence Day. For dogs, though, those loud booms and flashing lights aren’t so fun.
More pets run away on the Fourth of July than any other day of the year. So it’s critical to ensure people can identify your dog and contact you if he runs off out of fear. Getting him microchipped well in advance of such holidays is a smart decision. It’s also a good idea to attach identification tags to his collar.
Below are some reasons dogs are scared of fireworks, followed by ways you can help ease your dog’s fears and keep him calm.
4 Reasons Dogs are Scared of Fireworks
1. They’re Loud
Most fireworks make some kind of loud sound. Dogs have a more acute sense of hearing than humans, so those loud booms, crackles and whistles are alarming.
2. They’re Unpredictable
You expect fireworks on holidays like the Fourth of July, but for your dog, it’s just another day. Those firecrackers come without warning. The loud noises and flashing lights sound and look different each time. Plus, they come at different intervals, so dogs can’t get used to them.
3. They Pose a Threat
The noise and unpredictability of fireworks leads many dogs to perceive them as a threat. This triggers their fight-or-flight response. Your dog may bark at the noises or try to run away and hide. He may show other signs of anxiety, too, like restlessness, panting, pacing and whining.
4. Fireworks Make Dogs Feel Trapped
Fireworks are inescapable on holidays like Independence Day. So if the noises trigger your dog’s flight response, he will try to run from the threat. Unfortunately, there’s often nowhere to go, as you can still hear those loud booms indoors.
How to Keep Your Dog Safe & Calm During Fireworks
As you can see, dogs have good reasons to fear fireworks. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to help your dog feel safe and secure.
Keep Him Inside: Even if your dog spends most of his time outdoors, bring him inside during firework displays. This will prevent him from running away when he feels scared, which can put him in danger.
Create a Safe Space: If your dog is crate-trained, make his crate available, as that’s probably already a safe space for him. If not, put him in a bathroom or other small room with music or white noise to help drown out the boom of fireworks. Bringing his bed, blankets and toys into the room can make him feel more comfortable.
Try a Calming Wrap: Calming wraps, vests and shirts apply light, constant pressure. Many dogs find this soothing and calming. You may find such products help in other anxiety-inducing situations, like thunderstorms.
Desensitize: Start working with your dog far enough in advance to desensitize him to fireworks and other loud noises. You can start this process by playing fireworks sounds on a low level while playing with your dog and giving him treats. Over time, slowly increase the sound of the fireworks during these play sessions. Eventually, your dog will associate the sound of fireworks with happy and fun moments.
Not all dogs are afraid of fireworks, but it’s important to remember your dog will take cues from you. If you make a big deal out of them when he’s not scared, he may eventually develop anxiety about fireworks. So make an effort to keep your dog calm, but remember to remain calm yourself.
When you understand why dogs are scared of fireworks, you can better address your dog’s fears and help him stay calm. See our Pet Expertise page for more tips on safety, care and more.
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08-20-18
KNOW THE LAW: SERVICE AND SUPPORT ANIMALS
What’s the difference between an emotional support animal and a service animal? And what kinds of accommodations are landlords required to provide?
GET THE LOWDOWN…
https://www.zillow.com/rental-manager/resources/landlord-laws-support-animal/?utm_source=email&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=emm_zrm_0818_augustbatchnl&utm_content=herobutton
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Protect your pet from the extreme cold
Pet Emergency Preparedness
Bone-chilling winds, slippery icy streets and knee-high snowdrifts-winter isn’t coming, it’s already here! You may be familiar with the dangers summer can bring for pets, but did you know that winter has it’s own set of challenges?
For example, everyone knows that in the summer, a car feels more like an oven to pets and can cause heatstroke; but in the winter, that same car feels like a freezer and may cause hypothermia?
Experts recommend keeping pets indoors during extreme cold weather. It’s just the right thing to do. Below are some tips and supplies to help keep your pet warm and avoid cold weather concerns.
Pet Emergency Supplies
A pet emergency preparedness kit should have the supplies below to help keep your pet fed, warm and secure during blizzards and extreme cold weather.
FOR COLD WEATHER:
sweater
insulated vest
paw socks
paw booties
paw wax
pet-safe ice melt
heated pet bed or pad
FOR IDENTIFICATION:
pet tag with your cell phone number
vaccination/medical records
veterinary contact information
a current photo of your pet
FOR TRANSPORT:
carrier
crate
blanket
collar (with up to date tag information)
non-retractable leash
sturdy harness
FOOD:
1 week supply of food (in waterproof container)
bottled water
portable food & water bowls
collar (with up to date tag information)
manual can opener (if using canned food)
list of feeding routine & behavioral needs/considerations
GENERAL CARE:
puppy pads
any medication
pet first aid kit
flea & tick preventative
pet waste bags
cat litter, litter box & scoop
calming spray
ThunderShirt (calming apparel)
Icy dangers
Facebook and Instagram are chock-full of thousands of delighted pups (and even some kitties) frolicking in the snow. Winter can be a wonderland, but it also has some hidden perils: de-icers, anti-freeze, salt and other snow melting products. These can cause skin irritations and if ingested, can be fatal.
If you live in an area where these are used, it’s important to thoroughly rinse your pet’s paws and belly after a walk. This will help prevent skin irritation and accidental ingestion of any chemicals. Around your own home, use pet-safe ice melting products.
Paw protection
Prolonged contact with frozen surfaces can harm your pet’s paws. In extreme cases it can even lead to frostbite. Fortunately, there are plenty of products that can help protect their sensitive skin: petroleum jelly, paw wax, booties and socks.
If your pup doesn’t mind the feel, booties offer insulation and extra protection from chemicals and sharp, icy objects. If your pooch or kitty won’t tolerate wearing anything on their paws, try massaging a little petroleum jelly or paw wax on, before you go on a walk.
Too cold for comfort
Don’t let your pet’s furry, fluffy exterior fool you; domestic cats and dogs can’t tolerate extreme cold weather. There are breeds that tolerate the cold a bit more like huskies and malamutes; but just like people, their tolerance varies. Breed, size, activity level, age and body fat determine how well a pet can tolerate the cold. Still keep a few things in mind:
Never shave a pet’s coat in cold climates because they need it for warmth
Small pets, short-haired breeds and elderly pets are more susceptible to cold weather.
Limit walks in extreme cold weather and monitor your pet’s behavior for signs of stress or discomfort.
Never leave a pet outside during a winter storm.
Do not let your dog off leash after snowfall. Snow masks familiar scents and your pet may become lost and disoriented.
THANK YOU PETSMART FOR THIS WONDERFUL ARTICLE!
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and if I may add – their shot records also!
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What we’ve done to prepare our pets for disasters
John Simpson – Community Manager (Contractor)
With the Atlantic hurrcane season beginning June 1, it’s never too late to begin thinking about how to better prepare your loved ones, including those we call our pets. There are a LOT of online resources and websites that provide great information and tips on how to best prepare your pet. Here are five easy ways that we look to when preparing our pets for an emergency:
1) Identify a shelter: Before disaster hits call your local office of emergency management to see if you will be allowed to evacuate with your pets and that there will be shelters that take people and their pets in your area. And just to be safe, track down a pet-friendly safe place for your family and pets. Most boarding kennels, veterinarians and a12-02-16nimal shelters will need your pet’s medical records to make sure all vaccinations are current.
2) Pack a pet kit: Take pet food, bottled water, medications, veterinary records, cat litter/pan, manual can opener, food dishes, first aid kit and other supplies with you in case they’re not available later. Each pet is unqiue, but each pet needs the basics in case of an emergency.
3) Update your pet’s ID: Make sure identification tags are up-to-date and securely fastened to your pet’s collar. If possible, attach the address and/or phone number of your evacuation site. If your pet gets lost, his tag is his ticket home.
4) Protect your pet during a disaster: Animals have instincts about severe weather changes and will often isolate themselves if they are afraid. Bringing them inside early can stop them from running away. Even if your dogs and cats normally get along, the anxiety of an emergency situation can cause pets to act irrationally. Understanding what to expect during a disaster is crucial.
5) Keep an eye on your pet after an emergency: The behavior of your pets may change after an emergency. Normally quiet and friendly pets may become aggressive or defensive. Watch animals closely. Leash dogs and place them in a fenced yard with access to shelter and water. Familiar scents and landmarks may be altered and your pet may become confused and lost. Remember to keep taking care of them even after the disaster.
Posted 05-10-15
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ADDITIONAL PET PREPAREDNESS!!
Make a Disaster Plan for Your Pets
How to keep pets safe in natural disasters or everyday emergencies
http://www.humanesociety.org/issues/animal_rescue/tips/pets-disaster.html?credit=web_id97309811
POSTED 05-10-15
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AVAILABLE ADOPTIONS WITH:
DIAMOND DOGS RESCUE, INC.
Toni Diamond
428 High Street, Mount Holly, NJ 08060
TKDIAMOND@AOL.COM
Updated 03-08-16
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Preparedness for pets – Ready.gov
Preparedness for Pets and Beating the Heat
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DOGS ONLY!! (NOT MY RULES) – All Pet Supplies Plus stores offer free nail clipping EVERY SUNDAY IN ALL OF THEIR STORES!!!
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THIS PERTAINS TO ALL PETS EVERYWHERE!
New Jerseyans Should Include Pets in Their Preparedness Plan
Main Content
Release date:
May 31, 2013
TRENTON, N.J. — The New Jersey Office of Emergency Management and the Federal Emergency Management Agency encourages New Jerseyans to include their pets as they update their emergency plans.
For millions of animal owners, pets are important members of the household. The likelihood that you and your animals will survive an emergency such as a fire, flood, tornado or terrorist attack could depend on emergency planning done today. Knowing what supplies to have available, how to evacuate with your pets, where your pets will stay and how you will meet your pets’ needs throughout the disaster are all critical questions to address.
All pet owners are urged to keep a pet emergency supply kit, which should include at least a three-day supply of food in an airtight, waterproof container, drinking water, bowls for the food and water, current photos of you and your pets together, physical descriptions of each pet, medication, vaccination records and first aid pet supplies. Also include a leash and a pet carrier that can double as a sleeping area. You should consider comfort items for your pets as well, such as their favorite toys and blankets.
Make a back-up emergency plan in case you can’t care for your animals yourself. Develop a buddy system with neighbors, friends and relatives to make sure someone is available to care for or evacuate your pets if you are unable to do so. Talk with your pet care buddy about your evacuation plans and show them where you keep your pets’ emergency supply kit. Also designate specific locations, one in your immediate neighborhood and another farther away, where you will meet your buddy in an emergency.
Evacuating pets may be more difficult if you cannot evacuate in your own vehicle. Pet owners must understand their community’s evacuation plans and ensure they are prepared for any variations and restrictions. If officials call for an evacuation, you should be aware that many evacuation shelters do not accept pets and you must plan where you’ll shelter your pets in advance. Many hotels, motels, campsites and other facilities around the country now allow pets. For information on pet-friendly accommodations in your area, visit ready.gov/caring-animals.
For more information on emergency preparedness, visit the NJOEM website at state.nj.us/njoem, Ready.gov or Listo.gov or call the toll-free numbers 1-800-BE-READY, TTY 1-800-462-7585 and 1-888-SE-LISTO. You can also text PREPARE to 43362 (4FEMA) and sign up to receive monthly disaster safety tips on your mobile phone.
# # #
FEMA’s mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.
Follow FEMA online at www.fema.gov/blog, www.twitter.com/fema, www.facebook.com/fema,
and www.youtube.com/fema. Also, follow Administrator Craig Fugate’s activities at www.twitter.com/craigatfema.
The social media links provided are for reference only. FEMA does not endorse any non-government websites, companies or applications.
Last Updated:
May 31, 2013 – 10:27
State/Tribal Government or Region:
Region II and New Jersey
Related Disaster:
New Jersey Hurricane Sandy
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Planning a safe holiday for your cat
This was helpful This was helpful
When it comes to the holidays, there are so many things to be careful of — not gaining 10 lbs. on cookies, not getting yourself into debt just to buy some presents — and of course keeping your pets healthy, happy and safe. Here are some helpful tips from your friends at Hill’s Pet Nutrition on how you can do just that.
Provide solitude. Guests may cramp your cat’s style, so keep her favorite place free from the holiday hubbub so she can relax.
Keep poisonous and dangerous plants away. Plants like mistletoe and poinsettia are poisonous, and ingested pine needles can cause digestive tract blockage. Keep your pet away from these plants and you just might save yourself a trip to the emergency vet.
Decorate safely. There are a variety of decorations that can cause problems for your cat. Ribbons and tinsel are frequently implicated in veterinary emergency rooms. Light cords, when chewed or frayed, can cause severe burns or electrocution. Prevent these disasters by keeping decorations out of reach or locked in an inaccessible room.
Make holiday trips safe and prepare for them well in advance. Take special precautions when traveling with your pet no matter how you choose to travel. Several days before departing, consult with your veterinarian about how to properly prepare for a trip.
Table scraps aren’t pet snacks. Many holiday foods are loaded with fat and sodium and can cause stomach upset. Chicken bones can easily get stuck in the digestive tract and other foods like chocolate or onions can be poisonous. In short, people food is meant for people. Stay disciplined in keeping your cat on the right Science Diet® cat food formula for optimal health.
Because chocolate can cause illness and even death in cats, it should be avoided completely. Chocolate contains theobromine, a potent cardiovascular and central nervous system stimulant that is eliminated very slowly in cats.
If your cat experiences occasional stomach upset, consider Science Diet® Sensitive Stomach for adult cats.
A holiday recipe for a healthy homemade cat treat. Take Science Diet® canned cat food and cut into bite-sized pieces. Cook in the microwave for approximately two-and-a-half to three minutes. In a conventional oven, bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.
Use dry Science Diet® cat food by grinding it into flour using a blender, then add water until it is the consistency of dough. Make into cookie shapes and bake on a cookie sheet for approximately 30 minutes at 350 degrees. Let your cat watch you make them to build anticipation.
Posted 12-18-12
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Planning a Safe Holiday for Your Dog
This was helpful This was helpful
ADULT DOG CARE
Planning a Safe Holiday for Your Dog
When it comes to the holidays, there are so many things to be careful of – not gaining 10 lbs. on cookies, not getting yourself into debt just to buy some presents – and of course keeping your pets healthy, happy and safe. Here are some helpful tips from your friends at Hill’s Pet Nutrition on how you can do just that.
Provide solitude. Keep your dog’s favorite place free from the holiday hubbub so he can relax.
Reduce stress. Keep your dog’s exercise schedule as normal as possible to prevent anxiety and misbehavior.
Keep poisonous and dangerous plants away. Plants like mistletoe and poinsettia are poisonous, and ingested pine needles can cause digestive tract blockage. Keep your pet away from these plants and you just might save yourself a trip to the emergency vet.
Decorate safely. There are a variety of decorations that can cause problems for your dog. Ribbons and tinsel are frequently implicated in veterinary emergency rooms. Light cords, when chewed or frayed, can cause severe burns or electrocution. Prevent these disasters by keeping decorations out of reach or locked in an inaccessible room.
Make holiday trips safe and prepare for them well in advance. Take special precautions when traveling with your pet no matter how you choose to travel. Several days before departing, consult with your veterinarian about how to properly prepare for a trip.
Table scraps aren’t pet snacks. Many holiday foods are loaded with fat and sodium and can cause stomach upset. Chicken bones can easily get stuck in the digestive tract and other foods like chocolate or onions can be poisonous. In short, people food is meant for people, not pets.
Because chocolate can cause illness and even death in dogs, it should be avoided completely. Chocolate contains theobromine, a potent cardiovascular and central nervous system stimulant that is eliminated very slowly in dogs.
Give your pet a tasty holiday treat without sacrificing precise nutrition. Available in many healthy varieties, Hill’s® Ideal Balance™ Dog Treats are the perfect way to share some holiday cheer with your special dog.
If your dog suffers from occasional stomach upset, try the advanced digestive nutrition of Science Diet® Sensitive Stomach adult dog food or an all-natural product like Hill’s® Ideal Balance™ dog food.
Posted 12-18-12
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This is SOOOO! important for pets everywhere!!!
In Preparing for Disasters, Dont Forget Fido
Release Date: May 17, 2012
Release Number: 4059-068
CHARLESTON, W. Va. — If you are one of the many West Virginians with a cat, dog, other pet or service animal, now is a good time to start planning for what to do with your furry or feathered friend in the event of a future disaster.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency has worked with the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, the American Kennel Club, the American Veterinary Medical Association and the Humane Society of the United States to develop these pet-preparedness guidelines.
Have a pet-supply kit ready, including:
Pet food for three days in an airtight, waterproof container and bowls;
Water for three days;
Pet medicines and first aid supplies;
Collar (with ID tags firmly secured), harness or sturdy leash;
Important documents such as registration, adoption papers, vaccination and medical records in a plastic bag or waterproof container;
Travel crate or other pet carrier;
Cat litter, litter box, paper towels, newspapers, plastic trash bags and cleaning supplies;
Photos of you and your pet together for identification purposes; and
Familiar items such as toys, treats and blankets.
The single most important thing you can do to protect your pets is to take them with you if you must evacuate. Animals left behind in a disaster can easily be lost or injured. If evacuation is necessary, consider friends or family outside the area who can take in you and your pet.
Other options may include a pet-friendly hotel or motel. If your only evacuation option is a Red Cross or other publicly run shelter, be aware that not all shelters are equipped or designed to accept non-service animals. Consider boarding your animals at a kennel or veterinary hospital before going to a public shelter.
Plan with neighbors, friends or relatives to evacuate your pet for you if you are unable to do so yourself. Talk with them about your evacuation plans and pet supply kit.
Consult your veterinarian and consider “microchipping” your pet. These permanent implants may be invaluable if you and your pets are separated.
After the disaster, don’t allow your pets to roam loose. Familiar landmarks and smells may have been changed by the disaster and your pet could become disoriented or lost.
For information on pet-friendly accommodations in your area and disaster planning, visit www.fema.gov/plan/prepare/animals.shtm.
FEMA’s mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.
Last Modified: Thursday, 17-May-2012 11:37:19
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Cat Proofing Your Home
Curiosity and playfulness are part of your cat’s charm, but they can sometimes get her into trouble. Take these steps to make your home a safe environment.
Beware of poisonous plants
Cats like to chew on grass and plants inside and outdoors. You’d be surprised by the number of plants that are irritating, dangerous and even deadly to cats if eaten. Even non-poisonous plants can cause vomiting and diarrhea.
Keep these plants out of reach or, better yet, don’t have them in the house at all. If your cat likes green stuff, purchase cat grass.
Lock-down
Put child-proof latches on your cabinets to keep your cat from licking, chewing, or eating cleaning products. They contain dangerous chemicals. You probably don’t want the cat lying on your pots and pans, either.
Off the meds
Keep all medications, both over-the-counter and prescription (human and animal) in a secure cabinet. Child-proof containers aren’t necessarily chew-proof for your pet. Be sure to pick up any dropped pills.
Play keep-away
Pack away anything you don’t want broken. Cats love exploring, jumping on tables, cabinets, sideboards, and bookshelves to investigate their space. They may accidentally knock over or break fragile items and knickknacks, then walk or chew on the broken pieces.
Unplugged
Unplug electrical cords. If your cat’s a chewer, she could be in for a nasty shock. You could also deter her from chewing on cords by placing them in a cord protector or coating them with a bad-tasting substance like hot sauce or a non-toxic ointment or spray available at pet supply stores.
Strike the cords
Keep drapery cords coiled out of reach. Your cat could strangle herself by getting the cord wound around her neck or choke on a plastic pull that she’s chewed into pieces.
Check the dryer
Check the dryer before closing the door, then keep it closed when not in use. Cats love to hole up in dark, quiet places, and tragedies have occurred. Kittens often climb into refrigerators, freezers, and dresser drawers, so check these, too, before closing them.
Unset the table
Remove tablecloths from unattended tables. New kittens are especially curious about what’s up there on the table and will try to climb the tablecloth. The result could be broken china and crystal and an emergency trip to the veterinarian.
Put a lid on it
Keep the toilet seats down. A kitten could fall in and be unable to get out.
Under cover
Cover garbage disposal switches. Natural climbers, cats usually find their way to the kitchen sink sooner or later. Many have been known to play with electric switches such as the one for a garbage disposal. Special covers are available at hardware stores to help avoid disaster.
Screen it
Make sure your screen door has a secure latch. Don’t run the risk that your cat could slip out unnoticed. Check that your window screens are secure and sturdy.
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The Theobromine in chocolate is toxic to dogs because they can’t digest it as efficiently as humans. It can cause irregular heartbeat,
muscle spasms, hyperactivity, and in large quantities, even death.
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People travel with their pets for practical and sentimental reasons . . .
Why leave members of your family back at home when all you’ll do is wish they were with you on your vacation? Virginia wants you
to bring your pets along with you!
More and more places accommodate animals today — hotels and campgrounds, state parks and outdoor shopping centers, tourist
attractions and outdoor events — so that our four-legged friends can feel part of the fun.
Of course, service and guide dogs are welcome everywhere with their humans!
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YOUR PET AND EMERGENCIES: HOW TO PREPARE
If any good has resulted from the news of hurricane related disasters and local storm flooding that forced many
people from their homes, it is that no one is immune to such calamities. Every household should have an
emergency plan that includes ensuring the safety of their pets.
Remember, most emergency shelters and many hotels/motels do not accommodate pets.
With this in mind, consider some of these suggestions as you develop your own household emergency plan:
– Keep your pet’s shots current and their records handy. Most kennels require proof of current rabies and
distemper shots. It is a good idea to keep these papers with other important papers you would carry if you
needed to evacuate.
– Contact motels and hotels outside your area to determine if they will accept pets in an emergency. Keep a list
of these hotels so you can refer to it in the event of an emergency.
– Make sure your pets wear identification. Consider a microchip identification for your pet which is a service
offered by the MCSPCA and many veterinarians. Identification tags are a must, even if your pet is microchipped.
Some shelters or animal control services cannot read microchips, so it is very important that your pet is wearing
ID tags.
– Make arrangements with friends or relatives who live outside of your area to take care of your pet(s) in the
event you are unable to keep them with you.
– **Take photos of your pets with your name, address and phone number on the back in case you are separated.
Include the contact information of your vet also, just in case.
– Assemble an emergency supply kit which includes some of the following:
o Medications (with instructions) o Food for at least 3-4 days o Water, bedding
o Kitty litter and tray o Bedding material o Crate or carriers for your pets
– If you are forced to evacuate your home take your pets with you. You may not be able to return to home for
several days or weeks. Never, ever leave a dog chained to his doghouse! He can drown or suffer other harmful
injuries by not being able to move or reach higher ground in case of flooding. Do not leave your animal alone
outside under any circumstances. Pets, like other members of your family, deserve the protection and security
of emergency preparedness. We urge you to contact your elected officials to urge them that accommodations
for pets must be included in emergency and disaster planning. How heartbreaking it must have been for people
in the stricken areas to leave their pets behind. After all, for most of us our pets are our family too. Plan today
for their future. Please remember that the worst time to think about where your pet will go in an emergency is
when the emergency is upon you. By planning ahead, all the members of your family, including your animal
companions, can be safe, so that you can all be reunited when the crisis has passed.
For more information check out http://www.state.nj.us/njoem/preparedness.html.
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WE LEAVE NO STONE UNTURNED WHEN IT COMES TO HELPING OTHERS!!
