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Archive for March, 2016

Update on Molly

Wednesday, March 16, 2016
posted by Jim Murphy
Doing pretty well with hyperthyroidism and kidney disease of course I spoil her!

Doing pretty well with hyperthyroidism and kidney disease of course I spoil her!

As you know, my 17 year old cat, Molly was diagnosed with kidney disease and hyperthyroidism in late December. Here’s an update on the old girl. I’ve been giving her low protein and low phosphorous cat food and mixing with a high potency omega oil, called Astro’s Oil. She take 5 milligrams of Methamazole for her thyroid twice a day. I cut the tiny pill in half for each dose. I check her and adjust the amount as necessary. Sometimes, I give her a little less so she doesn’t get so sluggish. Her last test results showed that her Thyroid is back to normal levels and her Kidney disease has not advanced. This is a very delicate situation. I have to make sure she eats, drinks and pees regularly.Right now, she’s being a little finicky. I don’t know if it’s because of the disease or she’s just spoiled. I am sort of going crazy trying to mix a combination of cat food that she likes. I’m spending a small fortune! It’s all worth it for Molly. She is a wonderful companion and I hope to have her munching on cat treats, sleeping in her cat bed and driving me nuts for a long time to come!

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puppyeatingRegular dog food does not provide the high level of nutrients that puppy food does. This is the reason why we feed our puppies puppy chow and puppy foods. Puppies have special nutrient needs. Your puppy should receive puppy food for the first year. If you own a large breed, then I would keep him on puppy food for 18 months. Most dog food manufacturers offer a special formula for puppies that is higher in protein. This food also has the necessary fats, vitamins and minerals to meet your puppy’s growing needs.

Feed your puppy three times a day if he is six months or younger. After six months, feed him twice a day. Don’t leave the food out. Feed him at specific times and make sure you are there during the feedings. You want to make sure that he stays on a certain schedule.

It a good idea to have your puppy relax for about one hour after his feedings. This will help him digest his food. Then take him out for a walk.

Provide dog treats for good behavior but don’t over do it or your dog will expect them all the time.

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dogleashIf you’re looking for a dog collar, nylon and leather collars with either a buckled or snapped together closures are the best choices. Make sure that you test the snap closure to make sure that the hold is strong. Depending on the size of your dog, you may have to select one that can adjusts easily as your dog grows. It’s a good idea to get your pets name and contact number woven on the collar. Here are some basic tips when selecting a dog collar.

The ideal fit should allow between one and three fingers between your dogs neck and the collar depending on the size of your dog.
If you have a small dog, lets say under 20 pounds, leave 1 finger between your dogs neck and the collar.
If you have a medium size dog, allow 2 fingers between your dogs neck and collar.
If your dog is very large, 3 finger separation between the dogs neck and collar is the best.
Slip or choke dog collars consist of a length of leather , nylon or chain link with rings at each end. These collars are used as training collars to control your dog . I recommend a reward system to train your dog. You should never use this kind of collar permanently. They should never be used on toy or small dogs under 20 pounds. Now get a strong dog leash to do along with the collar.

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Adding A Dog To The Mix

Monday, March 14, 2016
posted by Jim Murphy
Golden Retriever puppy and kitten posing on white background. Cat and dog series

Golden Retriever puppy and kitten posing on white background. Cat and dog series

Soon, I will be relocating to my house in Delaware where I will be allowed to own a dog. Currently, the condo that I live in does not allow dogs. I have the option of adopting a cute little puppy and making frequent stops at the pet store to buy things like a dog leash, dog toys, dog food and a very lush dog bed. All of these things sound wonderful but I can’t forget that I have two cats. One is 11 years old and the other is 17. The older cat has medical issues. So I have to ask myself this question. Do I want to cause my two sweet cats who have been with me a long time and major disruption in their little lives?  I’ve just answered my own question. “No” Even though it is a great temptation, I’ll wait.

You should be mindful of the pets you have before introducing a new one to the mix. There is an adjustment period and it definitely can be done. I would recommend to introduce a new puppy when your pets are still young. There will be a disruption but if you’re careful, separate them then gradually get them acquainted with one another, you’ll be more successful.

As for me, I’ll stick with buying cat food and cat toys for awhile longer.

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Dogs Need Lots of Water

Sunday, March 13, 2016
posted by Jim Murphy

dogbowlDogs that eat a diet of mostly dry dog food get thirsty more often. It is very important that your dog water bowl be kept full at all times. There are a variety of dog feeding bowls and dog water bowls to choose from.The amount of water that your dog will drink depends on many factors. How much exercise does he get? It he outside often? The hotter it is and the more exercise that he gets, the more water he will drink. A word of caution, be very careful of where he is getting his water from. I say this because if he is drinking from the toilet, there are chemicals such as lye that he could consume and get sick. This is also true for cats. I have one cat that loves to drink from the toilet. I try to keep the lid down all the time! She still manages to get into the toilet while I’m not looking! I would also be cautious if your dog drinks from ponds or streams while he is outside. There may be elements in the water that may harm him.

Keep in mind that I tend to be on the “upper” end of the cautious scale. I don’t own a dog at this time but if I did, I would also be a little cautious of him drinking from dog water bowls that store owners sometimes keep outside the stores. Not that I don’t trust the store owners but I don’t really trust the “passers by.” Keep his water fresh and his bowl full at most times and you won’t have any problems.

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Tiny Cats

Sunday, March 13, 2016
posted by Jim Murphy

SMALLCATBelieve it or not, there are small cat breeds. Here are a variety of small cats that are available to choose from. These include the Abyssinian, the American curl, the Balinese, the Colorpoint the Cornish Rex, the Devon Rex, the Russian Blue, the Javanese, the Singapura etc. Some cats can be smaller than the usual for various reasons. Some reasons for their small size, may be due to genetics, hormonal reasons and even environmental reasons. These cats usually have short coats that are silky and soft to touch. They have large distinctive eyes which are usually green or amber. These cats are good for those who like their cats to stay kitten like. They can be inquisitive and smart cats. They come in a single color, brown or beige. They love cozy cat beds where they could curl up and snuggle! These cats body’s are just 10 to 14 inches long. My younger cat Millie, is a smaller mixed breed. She doesn’t classify as a small cat but she is definitely on the small side and at 11, she still looks like a kitten! So if you like a cat to look like a kitten, you may consider some of these breeds. They eat the same cat food as normal sized cats and make sure you keep the cat treats handy!

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Some Facts About Rabbits

Saturday, March 12, 2016
posted by Jim Murphy

rabbitEaster is just around the corner and those cute bunnies are popping up in pet stores everywhere. Many people, especially children prefer small animals as pets. Many bunnies end up in shelters because people just don’t know enough about them. Taking the proper care of a rabbit requires patience and care. Rabbits are not neat about where they poop. You’ll find their little pellets everywhere. The good news is that you can train them to go in a litter box. Rabbits also require a special diet. A mixture of rabbit food, fresh leafy vegetables, fresh water and hay should be available at all times.Plenty of hay is essential for their digestive system. Rabbits also groom themselves often.. The only problem is that they cannot vomit up their hairballs like cats do. Hair can get lodged in their digestive tract and cause lots of problems. Rabbits are small animals and should be kept in a cage. Cages can get dirty pretty fast, so they require cleaning on a regular basis. Pay close attention, if you see that your Rabbit is not pooping or eating, take him to the vet immediately. They can be ill and die very quickly if they don’t receive prompt medical attention. Do your homework before  adopting a rabbit.

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Two Very Different Felines!

Saturday, March 12, 2016
posted by Jim Murphy

BENCATThe most common cat in america is the domestic short hair. This kind has no pedigree. Each cats behavior is personality driven. Your really never know how one will behave until you bring it home. Among the purebred cats, two of the most different are rag dolls and bengals. Rag Dolls are generally very friendly and affectionate but very placid. Dr Hart says that Bengals are the opposite of placid. They are energetic, active and always ready to play. He says that they were bred to look like a wild cat or a miniature leopard. They are loving and loyal but Bengals are not lap cats. So if you have a Bengal, get lots of cat toys are start playing and don’t forget the cat treats!

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Doggy Stomach Issues

Friday, March 11, 2016
posted by Jim Murphy

dogstomachIt’s not unusual for dogs to have occasional bouts with diarrhea or constipation that get better on there own. If your dog has ongoing episodes or it you see blood in his stool, consult your veterinarian right away! Michael Leed, a professor of small animal internal medicine at the Virginia, Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine says that your pet can be suffering from irritable bowel syndrome. It could also be because of the dog food he’s eating. He also mentions that this can be quite serious requiring hospitalization and fluid therapy. Stress and bad eating habits can be associated with this syndrome but these aren’t the only causes. Your veterinarian will run a series of tests to determine exactly what’s wrong and come up with an appropriate treatment solution.Your vet may also recommend a change of diet that includes wellness pet food.He may also recommend pet supplements.  In the meantime, if your dog is suddenly having “accidents,” never yell or punish him. Just keep using the pet odor remover and get him to the vet right away!

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Tips on Dog Toys

Friday, March 11, 2016
posted by Jim Murphy

DOGOTYNot all dog treats and dog toys are safe for your dog. There’s a debate on whether or not you should give your dog rawhide to chew. I did once in awhile but didn’t make it a steady diet. Dog chews are a better choice. Your vet can tell you which ones are best.

Here are some things to avoid when it comes to dog toys
• Avoid the following!

  • balls with single air holes, which can create a deadly suction trap;
  • sticks and stones;
  • heavily dyed toys;
  • toys treated with fire retardants or stain guard;
  • soft plastics.
    • Always supervise your dog’s play time.
    • Choose toys to fit your dog’s size and avoid those he can work to the back of his mouth.
    • Select toys that match your dog’s play style.
    • Keep a variety of dog toy types on hand; rotate to spark your dog’s interest.
    • Don’t use toys as a substitute for interaction.

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