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Archive for June, 2020

No Guacamole and Beer for the Pooch!

Thursday, June 18, 2020
posted by Jim Murphy

There are some foods that your dog should never have and some of them may surprise you! If you give your dog a chip with guacamole on it, there will be severe stomach problems for your best friend. For instance, the reason why guacamole should never be given to your dog is because avocados contain persin which is harmless to humans but can be very toxic to your dog. If you happen to be growing avocados at home, keep your dog away from the plants. Persin is in the leaves, seed and bark as well as the fruit.

Alcohol is also very dangerous for your dog. That’s because alcohol has the same effect on a dog’s liver and brain that it has on humans but it takes far less time to do a lot of damage. Web Md says that just a little can cause vomiting, diarrhea, central nervous system depression, problems with coordination, difficulty breathing, coma, even death, and the smaller the dog, the greater the effect.

Remember, your pets count!

Keeping the oldies rolling all the time on Edgewater Gold Radio. Just ask Alexa to “play Edgewater Gold Radio” or you may listen from our website: Edgewater Gold Radio.com

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Sharing Water Bowls

Wednesday, June 17, 2020
posted by Jim Murphy

Dogs like to have their own dog food bowls but do you need more than one water bowl for more than one dog?  What about the germs in each dog’s mouth?  Just like humans, dogs have lots of bacteria in their saliva. We shouldn’t call them all germs because some bacteria serve a useful purpose. The bad bacteria gets zapped by acid in the dog’s stomach when it swallows.  Some diseases that dog’s pass along  are respiratory and some are transmitted by fecal contamination. If your dog has a compromised immune system, I wouldn’t let him share a water bowl or drink the water from any bowls that thoughtful store owners may keep outside their store for our canine friends.

Dogs with healthy immune systems can safely share one water bowl. Always keep plenty of water around. Adult dogs are 60% water so they need lots of hydration.

Remember, your pets count!

Your favorite oldies and Summer songs are playing on Edgewater Gold Radio. It’s the place for oldies. Listen on our website: Edgewater Gold Radio.com, ask Alexa to “play Edgewater Gold Radio!

 

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Stage 4 or End Stage Kidney Disease in Cats

Tuesday, June 16, 2020
posted by Jim Murphy

We’ve discussed feline kidney disease in detail over the past several months but outside of a blood test, how do we know that our beloved pet is in the last stages of kidney disease?  Kidney disease is really never curable but with the proper care, you can extend your cats life by many years.  End stage renal disease is when your cats kidneys begin functioning below 15 percent. Laboratory testing reveals creatinine levels above 6.0, usually accompanied by elevated phosphorous levels.

As a pet owner, what are the signs that our beloved pet is entering the final stages of kidney disease?  Your pet will experience  more weight loss, extreme nausea, lethargy and sometimes refusal to eat. Unfortunately, your cat will probably only live a few months after entering stage 4 kidney disease. Treatment by IV fluids may help to reduce nausea and decrease creatinine levels. I would also continue the use of natural products such as a high potency omega oil, kidney scrubs and renal care protein to help sustain a quality of life an slow progression of the disease.

My cat Atlantis has kidney disease but at this point it’s at it’s beginning stages. I swear by Astro’s Oil products. I use the Omega oil, the kidney scrub and renal care protein. Atlantis is more active, eating well, he loves sitting with us and purrs contently while being pet and is also gaining weight. Since we adopted him in a later stage of his life, we hope to have him around for a long time to come. Astro’s Oil will be part of his heath regimen for the rest of his life.  If your vet recommends treatment for your cat during his struggle with kidney disease, I would follow the treatment plan prescribed but also I would also include Astro’s oil products. I swear by them and you’ll surely see a difference.

Remember your pets count!

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Hurricane season has officially begun on June 1 and already we’ve had three named tropical storms form. We have to include our pets in our emergency plans. In the event that you have to evacuate, here are some things that you should do.

Find a pet friendly shelter. Take along these items.

  • Food and water – pack at least a three day supply of food and water for your pet.
  • Medicine – keep an extra supply of any medicine that your pet must take.
  • Collar and leashes – some shelters don’t allow a retractable dog leash. Make sure that you have a good leash, and all of your dog’s information on his collar. It’s even better if your pet is micro-chipped.
  • First aid – You can purchase a first aid kt for your pets.
  • Medical records – Keep all immunization papers and documents regarding your pets medications together in a water proof container.
  • Bring along small bags, disinfectants, and newspapers used for cleanup. Bring a litter box and litter for your cat.
  • Photo – Bring a recent photo of you and your pet in the case of separation.
  • Pet Carrier – You’ll never know where you will end up in a disaster. It’s a good idea to keep a crate with you.
  • Favorite toys – Your pet will be stressed just as you are. A few toys will her calm her down.
Always remember your pets in the event of a major weather event. Remember, your pets count!
Your oldies are playing all the time on Edgewater Gold Radio! Keep us on all day and enjoy the memories. Ask Alexa to “play Edgewater Gold Radio.” You can also listen from our website: Edgewater Gold Radio.com.

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Cats With Sensitive Stomachs

Sunday, June 14, 2020
posted by Jim Murphy

It sometimes could be difficult to determine whether or not your cat has a sensitive stomach. The first thing that you should do is to look at is his litter box. Is it more messy than usual? Does he have diarrhea? Is he vomiting? Did you recently change his diet? I would then get him checked out by a vet to rule out any serious health issues. If it’s determined that your cat has a dietary intolerance, then your vet will recommend a food that’s highly digestible. Your veterinarian might recommend a low-residue food.This which works by providing a special blend of fiber, protein and fat sources.

Make sure that you pay attention to your cats entire digestive system, not just his stomach. This includes intestines, mouth, esophagus, gums and teeth. Tooth decay, bad breath and gum disease could also contribute to this problem. Your vet will recommend that you take care of your cats teeth by brushing them regularly.

When you do find a diet that your cat will tolerate, make sure that you stick to it.

Remember, your pets count!

The best oldies are on Edgewater Gold Radio. It’s a 60s and 70s weekend! Enjoy your oldies on Alexa. Just say “play Edgewater Gold Radio or listen from our website: Edgewater Gold Radio.com.

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There are two things that are mandatory when in public. When I say mandatory I mean you must do this to protect yourself and others. Wearing masks and social distancing has been proven time and time again to work. Yet here in the U.S people throw their hands up in the air and say “it’s my right not to wear a mask or social distance.” You know something “your right, my ass” that what I say because this attitude infuriates me. We are beginning to see states infection rates and hospitalizations skyrocket. Why? because of re-opening too soon and reckless behavior. This isn’t looking good and could mean a disaster is looming ahead! It’s not only selfish but shows how defiant we as Americans can be. I needed to say this because unfortunately way too many people are following the politically motivated movement in the White House. If you continue to do this, I guarantee you that the inconvenience that we’re experiencing now will be nothing like what’s too come. It’s up to you…….not the politicians!!! Follow doctors and scientists not idiots!

Now lets get to the point of this article.  As dog parks begin to open, there is a certain protocol that you must follow. Boston.com has put together guidelines to keep you and your dog safe during his exercise and walks.

Here’s what to know if you’re planning to spend some time outside with your furry friend:

Wearing a mask and Social distancing is a must

All dog walkers and their dogs are expected to social distance, providing enough space for others and their dogs to pass when necessary.

“Social distancing for dogs means that dogs not part of the same household should be kept at least six feet apart and avoid interacting with other dogs and other people from separate households,” the state’s guidance reads.

At dog parks, visitors should plan to distance at least six feet, or more, from others and should maintain enough control over their pets via leash or voice control to comply with social distancing guidelines and site-specific rules and regulations.

Bring your own bags and water 

Dogs are not allowed to drink out of shared water dishes when playing at the park, under the state’s safety guidelines. Instead, owners should expect to supply their own water and waste bags when out and about.

If feasible, the guidelines say property managers are encouraged to “provide no touch, lidless trashcans,” but visitors are asked to take dog waste with them if there are no trash bins in the area.

People are also asked not to share toys, treats, or other materials with dogs that are not within the same household.

Remember, your pets count!

Edgewater Gold Radio is playing the best variety of oldies from the 50s through the 80s. It’s a 60s and 70s weekend! Listen on Alexa, just say “Alexa play Edgewater Gold Radio.”  You may also listen from our website: Edgewater Gold Radio.com.

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When Your Cat Sneezes

Friday, June 12, 2020
posted by Jim Murphy

All cats sneeze every now and then and it’s usually no cause for alarm. Frequent sneezing, especially when one sneeze follows another can be allergies. Some culprits to consider are pollen, dust mites, cigarette smoke or household cleaners.  Allergies can also cause a runny nose or eyes as well as a skin irritation. Always check with your vet to find out which pet medication would be best for helping kitty with her allergies.

If your cat is over 3, sneezes and has stinky breath, this could mean tooth trouble. Aside from being painful, gum disease and abscesses could pose serious threat to your cats health. Habitual sneezing with mucus in the nose and eyes could mean that your cat has a bacterial respiratory infection. Bacterial infections require a trip to the vet for an antibiotic. A viral infection like feline herpes will eventually run its course even though your cat will remain a carrier for life. Don’t worry, this disease doesn’t spread to humans.

Cats are also highly susceptible to rabies and can pass the disease on to humans. This is a concern if your cat is outdoors. A more common disease is cat scratch fever caused by a cat scratch or bite. This is the most common disease that’s passed on the humans.

Remember , your pets count!

The oldies and Summer songs are playing all the time on Edgewater Gold Radio.  Ask Alexa to “play Edgewater Gold Radio” or listen from our website: Edgewater Gold Radio.com.

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How a Cats Kidneys Start to Fail

Thursday, June 11, 2020
posted by Jim Murphy

It is very common for an older cat to develop kidney disease and most time we don’t even notice this disease in it’s very early stages. Today we’re going to cover reasons why a cats kidneys start to fail. Dr. Karen Becker of Healthypets.mercola.com has outlined what happens when the kidneys start to fail.

The kidneys are made up of thousands of microscopic funnel-shaped tubes called nephrons. The job of nephrons is to filter and reabsorb fluids. In young healthy animals, there are so many nephrons available that some are held in reserve. As the cat ages or in cases of kidney damage, some nephrons stop functioning and the reserve nephrons take over and start functioning for them. At some point in a kitty’s life, all of the nephrons that can function are functioning.

With no nephrons left in reserve, as damage to the kidneys progresses, signs of chronic kidney disease will start to appear. Because of the system of reserve nephrons, there are no signs of kidney insufficiency until the damage is really significant. When two thirds of the nephrons are lost, the kidneys will no longer be able to conserve water, and the cat will pass larger amounts of dilute urine. By the time that the creatinine levels are elevated on a kitty’s bloodwork, 75 percent of nephrons in both kidneys are gone.

I’ve been discussing ways to recognize this disease but we must realize, when symptoms begin to develop, the disease has already progressed. I’m thankful for the products such as Astro’s oil which really help to prolong life and improve kitty’s quality of life. We will cover more details about this disease so we can better understand what’s going on inside your cat as the disease progresses.

Remember, your pets count!

 

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Conquering the Neutering Myths

Wednesday, June 10, 2020
posted by Jim Murphy

There are lots of myths regarding the neutering of your cat out there. We’re going to clear up a few of them.

myth – Early neutering is more likely to prevent bad behavior as opposed to cats neutered at a later age.

truth – It doesn’t matter when you have your cat neutered. There is the same reduction in negative behavior after the cat  neutered.

myth – Neutering your cat will make him fat.

truth – The only thing that makes your cat fat is lack of exercise, the wrong diet and overfeeding.

myth –  If a kitten is neuter too early, it’s growth will be stunted.

truth –  Your kitten will reach it’s full size but will not develop a more masculine appearance.

myth – If a kitten is neutered too early, it will have a narrowed  urethra will can cause urinary obstruction.

truth – There is no association between early neutering and urinary obstruction.

I hope this clears up some of your concerns regarding neutering. Remember, your pets count!

Remember, your pets count!

The oldies and Summer songs are playing all the time on Edgewater Gold Radio. Ask Alexa to “play Edgewater Gold Radio” or listen to our website: Edgewatergoldradio.com.

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An Unusual Dog Breed

Tuesday, June 9, 2020
posted by Jim Murphy

The Catahoula Leopard  is a versatile, working dog breed that originated in a region of Catahoula lake in central Louisiana. They have intriguing blue eyes and a strange coat. These dogs are extremely agile, territorial, athletic and very protective of  “their property.”  Psychologically, they are more primitive than other breeds and need constant reinforcement.

Many people say that it’s hard to describe this dog unless you own one yourself.  Some people call them “catdogs” because of their intuitive behavior and ability to climb trees. They are very intelligent dogs that needs lots of exercise and activity to keep them happy. They require a minimum of one hour of running each day and do not do well in urban areas for obvious reasons.

They make excellent working dogs and excel in herding, hunting and guarding. They are also used in police work for search and rescue and they also make excellent family pets.

The Catahoula is an assertive dog but not an aggressive one. If attacked, it will defend itself to whatever means necessary.

If you own one, spends lots of time with him in the park tossing him some of his favorite dog toys.

Remember, your pets count!

Your music, your station — all oldies —Edgewater Gold Radio–listen on Alexa or listen from our website: Edgewater Gold Radio.com.

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