Do you have a safe yard for your dog?  If so, does your dog really need to go for a walk? Canine exercise requirements depend on the type of dog as well as it’s age and physical condition. It also depends on what kind of exercise the dog is getting in the yard. Are  you tossing one of his toys around, is he chasing squirrels or is he just lying down and resting?  Taking your dog for a walk could be good for his physical and mental health. It may also provide a welcome change of environment.  He experiences new sights, sound and smells. Maybe he’ll even meet a new dog in the neighborhood. It’s good for you to walk your dog for bonding purposes. It also gives you a little exercise as well. Plus remember, dogs make a great conversation piece. So maybe, just by walking your dog, you’ll meet the person of your dreams! Remember, your pets count!

Cats  are very funny animals. They crave your attention then when you give them too much attention, they bite or go to scratch you. Why is this? My older cat Mollie will do this for what seems no reason at all. Some cats do this because they were permitted to play hand wrestling with their owners when they were kittens.  They grow up thinking that it’s OK to bite and swat at hands.  Sometimes they will bite if they don’t feel well.  It could be just petting induced aggression which has been going on their whole life.  Some cats like and can tolerate petting but other cats feel overstimulated by this sensation and react by lashing out. There are signs that your cat is not liking what she feels. She will stop purring, her pupils may become dilated, her ear may flicker and her tail may move slowly back and forth.  When your cat shows these signs, it’s your cue to stop petting her for awhile. Maybe a few days. Greet her in a pleasant tone and give her some cat toys to play with instead. Before you know it, she will be rubbing against you requesting that you give her a long, soothing pet. Remember, your pets count!

What’s the difference between dog hair and dog fur?  Hair and fur are both parts of the dogs coat. The Newfoundland has a double coat.  They have a soft, insulated layer next to the skin that is topped with a course layer above.  Compared to the Newfoundlands double fur coat,  a poodle only has one hair coat. Hair or fur the terms are interchangeable. Veterinarians can tell a lot about a dog’s health from the condition of it’s coat. Make sure that you brush your pet regularly. Hair clogs up the vacuum cleaner, fur is what makes you want to give your dog a hug.

Remember Your Pets Count!

How much water should your cat or dog drink each day. The basic answer is as much as your pet wants.  Thirst in healthy cats and dogs is internally regulated.  There’s little chance that they’ll drink too much.  Exercise and hot weather will increase thirst.  Your job is to provide plenty of  fresh water daily.  Cats detest stale, cold water. It’s important to fill their water bowl several times during the day. My older cat, Mollie actually takes her paw and tries to dump the water out if it’s bowl!  This doesn’t bother dogs as much.  Keep your dogs water bowl filled as well. If your water supply has too much chlorine in it, give your pet filtered water. Try to monitor your pets normal water consumption. If you notice any changes such as consuming too much water or not consuming enough, this could be a sign of disease. Discuss this with your vet.

Remember your pets count.