There are some very disturbing statistics regarding shelters and companion animals. According to Pet Finder, approximately 8 -12 million companion animals enter animal shelters each year. The very upsetting part is 5 – 9 percent are euthanized. 60% of dogs and 70% of cats. Just writing these statistics really bothers me. It is also surprising to know that intakes are about evenly divided between those relinquished by owners and those picked up by animal control. These are national figures, percentages can vary from state to state. There are many no kill shelters cropping up all over the country. My wish is that someday, all shelters will be no kill shelters but at this point, that’s unlikely to happen.

• Less than 2% of cats and 15% – 20% percent of dogs are returned to their owners. Most of these were identified with tags or microchips.
• 25% of dogs that enter shelters are purebred.
• Only 10% of the animals received by shelters have been spayed or neutered. 75% of owned pets are neutered.

Thanks again to PetFinder for providing this very valuable information. Go to them for all the information you need on pet adoption.

Providing a good home for these poor animals would be one of the most rewarding things in your life. Take a little of the focus away from yourself and give a shelter animal a good home. Instead of shopping for clothes, mobile devices etc., shop for dog beds, dog or cat food, dog treats, dog and cat toys. You’ll be glad you saved a life.

Remember, your pets count!

Edgewater Gold Radio is playing your favorite oldies! Ask Alexa to ” play Edgewater Gold Radio” or listen from our website; Edgewater Gold Radio.com.

Hillspet.com has put together a comprehensive lists of ways to prepare your dog for the beach and to keep in safe and sound!

Are you planning to take your new pup to the beach for the first time? As the weather starts to heat up, you may be excited to take him — but you may not be sure what to expect. Chances are you’ve heard of dog-friendly beaches, but do you know what this means?

The prospect of going to a dog-friendly beach may spark some new questions: Where should you go? What should you bring? Check out this handy guide, which could help you plan for taking your dog to beach.

Plan Ahead

Dog-friendly beaches are not usually hard to find, but it can take some investigating. Many beaches that allow dogs have rules — from requiring them to stay on a leash and keep out of specific areas to rules for you about picking up after your dog. If you have a particular beach in mind, call the beach management office or look online to familiarize yourself with the rules.

If you’d like to let your dog run free, you might need to search for a beach that allows dogs to run off-leash. Keep in mind that this might require a longer trip than you were anticipating. Therefore, you might have to plan your itinerary accordingly — including breaks from driving so your pet can stretch and use the bathroom. If you’ll be traveling away from home, it’s also a good idea to look up contact information for emergency veterinary clinics near your final destination (just in case your beach buddy runs into trouble).

What to Bring

When you go to the beach, you usually take along more than just your swimsuit. Taking a dog to the beach is no different. Here are some supplies you’ll want to bring to keep your pooch safe — and help make the day relaxing and fun:

• Bottled water
• A water dish
• A beach umbrella or shade screen
• An all-weather dog bed or a dog blanket
• A playpen to keep small dogs safely corralled
• Plenty of towels
• Canine sunscreen
• A canine life vest with a handle
• Baggies to clean up after them
• Food and treats
• Floating and waterproof dog toys
• Dog booties to protect his paws from the hot sand
• Doggles (dog goggles) to shield their eyes from sun and salt
• A doggy first aid kit
• A waterproof GPS tracker that can attach to their collar

Beach Safety

Even if you’re a new pet parent, you probably know by now that dogs are good at getting into scrapes. Follow these tips to minimize your dog’s chances of illness or injury:

• Before letting your pup explore, comb the beach for any litter they might try to eat or sharp objects, such as broken bottles, soda cans or seashells that could cause injury.
• Don’t let them drink sea water. If you notice signs that he’s getting hot or thirsty, offer them plenty of fresh water to drink.
• Protect your pup from getting overheated, which could lead to heat exhaustion or stroke. Keep an eye on them and have them lie on a bed or blanket in the shade and drink water if they start panting a lot or begins acting tired. If they begin to act lethargic or disoriented — or if their breathing doesn’t return to normal — contact the emergency vet immediately. Certain flat-faced or extremely fluffy dogs, such as bulldogs and huskies, will need extra supervision to stay cool, says Unleashed.
• Have your dog wear booties to protect their paws from getting burned on hot sand, and dark goggles madefor dogs as eye protection from sun damage.
• Coat the nose, ears, and any other areas with thinning fur with sunscreen made for dogs. Dogs are as susceptible to sunburns and skin cancer as we are.
• Have your dog wear a life vest when going for a swim or engaging in dog water sports. Even dogs who are excellent swimmers can grow tired and run into trouble. A vest with a handle on the back will make it easier to pull them to shore if necessary.
• Make sure your dog wears a collar with his ID, including your contact info, at all times in case you become separated. Consider attaching a waterproof GPS tracker. This is especially important for dogs that get curious of other creatures like seagulls or other dogs at the beach. If your dog is still a puppy and going through training, you will need to keep them tethered to you to prevent them from getting away. It might also be a good idea to wait until they’re is old enough and trained to truly enjoy a day at the dog beach.

Take a minute to wash the salt water off your dog’s coat once you’re tuckered out and ready to go home. This will keep them from itching or licking too much salt off themselves. Most public beaches have a hose or outdoor shower station but be courteous of the humans who may be using it.

With all of this in mind, it might seem like preparing to take your dog to the beach is, well… no day at the beach. But as a good pet parent, you want to do all you can to make your pup’s first time at the beach happy and memorable. And once you’re prepared, you’ll also be ready for future trips, which means those spontaneous beach days with your pooch can become a summer tradition.

Remember, your pets count!

Remember to keep your oldies playing all the time even when at the beach. Download one of the many apps that carry us like Tunein and Live365. Ask Alexa to “play Edgewater Gold Radio.” Listen from our website; www.edgewatergoldradio.com.

Just like our immune system, your pets immune system is working all the time. It wards of viruses, bacteria and other foreign invaders that could make your pet sick. If any of these foreign matters break through your pets system, a cellular fighting force is deployed to destroy them. Your pet needs a vigorous immune response to survive and what they eat plays an important role in your pets immune system. That’s why your pet’s diet needs to be balanced in terms of certain nutrients such as proteins and fats as well as key vitamins and minerals like zinc, selenium and vitamin C.  High quality cat food or dog food is essential to the well being of your pets. If you give your pets treats, make sure that your pets treats are also of a high quality. The ingredients as well as the proper balance or ingredients is key. Too much of one element could be just as detrimental as too little. Ask your veterinarian for a recommendation.

Remember, your pets count.

All oldies all the time on Edgewater Gold Radio! Ask Alexa to “play Edgewater Gold Radio” or listen from our website; Edgewater Gold Radio.com.

Here are some tips on how you become leader of the pack rather than your dog.

1. When walking your dog, you should be the first one out the door and the first one back in. Your dog should walk either beside or behind you.

2. Use a short dog leash because this allows you to have more control. If you attach the leash to the top of your dogs neck, you can communicate, guide and correct your dog easier. When you are correcting him, always keep his safety in mind. Never yank or pull him.

3. Make sure that you set enough time aside for the walk. You should set aside 30 minutes to a full hour. Morning walks are ideal. Keep a close eye on your dog while you are walking him.

4. After your dog has behaved and maintained the proper state of mind, reward him by letting him relieve himself and sniff around. You now have to decide when the reward time is over. It should always be less than the time spent focused on the walk.

5. When you get home, don’t stop leading. Have your dog wait patiently while you put away his dog leash or take off your shoes.

6. Give your dog a meal after the walk and make sure that you pick up after him.

This information was according to Cesar Millan’s tips on how to become leader of the pack.

Remember, your pets count!

The best oldies play all the time on Edgewater Gold Radio!  Just ask Alexa to “play Edgewater Gold Radio” or listen from our website; Edgewater Gold Radio.com.

Is your cat “cat napping” its life away? I find mine in their cat beds, couches, or even on the floor shutting out the world. Don’t be concerned. Domestic cats are similar or wild cats in many ways including their sleep and activity patterns which are called crepuscular. This means that they are active at dawn and dusk which is when their prey is out and about. The rest of the hours in the day are spent conserving their energy for the big expenditure they must make in order to hunt. Our domesticated cats obviously don’t need to worry about such things but their genes enable them to keep a schedule full of down time. An average of 16 hours a day or two thirds of their lives are spent resting or sleeping.  If you notice any big changes like listlessness or not eating, contact your veterinarian. Otherwise just get a comfortable cat bed and your cat will love you.

Remember, your pets count!

Enjoy your weekend with the best oldies of all time! Edgewater Gold Radio. Ask Alexa to “play Edgewater Gold Radio” or listen from our website; Edgewater Gold Radio.com.

Here are the answers and helpful information regarding this topic by The Mayo Clinic.

While coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) mostly spreads from person to person, it can also spread from people to animals.

COVID-19 is a type of coronavirus. Coronaviruses are a family of viruses. Some cause cold-like illnesses in people, and others cause illness in animals, such as bats. In addition, some coronaviruses infect only animals. While the specific source of origin isn’t known, the virus that causes COVID-19 is believed to have started in an animal, spread to humans and then spread between people.

Coronavirus in dogs and cats

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a few pets — including cats and dogs — also have been infected with the virus that causes COVID-19. This happened mostly after the animals were in close contact with people infected with the COVID-19 virus.

Based on the limited available information, the risk of animals spreading the COVID-19 virus to people is considered low. Animals don’t appear to play a significant role in spreading the virus that causes COVID-19. There is no evidence that viruses can spread to people or other animals from a pet’s skin, fur or hair.

However, keep in mind that young children, people with weakened immune systems, and people age 65 and older are more likely to get sick from some other germs that animals can carry.

To protect your pet from the COVID-19 virus, don’t let your dog or cat interact with people or animals outside your household. For example:

• Avoid dog parks or public places where many people and dogs gather.
• When walking your dog, make sure your dog wears a leash and keep your dog at least 6 feet (2 meters) from other people and animals.
• Keep cats indoors when possible.

If you become sick with COVID-19 and have a pet:

• Isolate yourself from everyone else, including your pet. If possible, have another person in your household care for your pet.
• Avoid petting, snuggling, being kissed or licked, and sharing food or bedding with your pet.
• If you care for your pet or are around animals while you’re sick, wear a cloth face covering. Wash your hands before and after handling animals and their food, waste and supplies. Also, make sure you clean up after your pet.

If you have COVID-19 and your pet becomes sick, don’t take your pet to the veterinarian yourself. Instead, contact the veterinarian. He or she might offer advice through a virtual visit or make another plan for treating your pet. Testing is only recommended for pets that have symptoms and have been exposed to a person with COVID-19.

If your pet tests positive for the virus that causes COVID-19, follow the same precautions you would if a family member became infected. Aim to isolate your pet in a separate room away from the rest of your family and have your pet stay at home. Wear gloves when you interact with your pet or its food, dishes, waste or bedding. Wash your hands after touching any of your pet’s items. Don’t put a face covering on your pet and don’t wipe your pet with disinfectants, which can be harmful. If your pet develops new symptoms or seems to be getting worse, call the veterinarian.

If your pet becomes ill, there’s reason to be hopeful. Of the small number of dogs and cats confirmed to have the virus that causes COVID-19, some didn’t show any signs of illness. The pets that did become ill only experienced mild symptoms and could be cared for at home. None of them died.

If you have questions or concerns about your pet’s health and how it can be affected by COVID-19, contact your veterinarian.

If you have guests that are staying overnight, it’s always best to keep your pet on his normal schedule. Give him is dog food and dog treats at set times. If the guests are children, then you have to consider your pups temperament. Is he calm around children? Does he get excited or jumpy? If you think that your dog might not interact well with a child, you may want to keep her in another room. Even if your dog is calm around children, they should be instructed how to behave including  not to petting the dog too hard. The most important tip is to never, ever leave your dog alone with a child. You’re just asking for trouble. Even if your dog is even tempered, she may bite if she’s hurt or frightened.

It may be a good idea to toss around some dog toys before your guests arrive, so your pup gets her exercise and maybe even gets a little tired out.

Preparing your dog for visitors is part of the ongoing process of training. This doesn’t end with teaching your dog to sit or stay. Learn how to teach your dog and it should be an ongoing process.

Remember, your pets count!

Our oldies station, Edgewater Gold Radio is playing all of your favorites right now. The 50s through the 80’s and all of your Summer songs! Asl Alexa to “play Edgewater Gold Radio” or listen from our website; Edgewater Gold Radio.com.

Remember, not all people are dog lovers. If you live in a heavily populated area or a big city there are some things that you should remember with regards to your dog’s behavior. Always have your dog close to you on his dog leash. It’s up to you to present a dog who is well socialized and under control. If you’re in the elevator, keep your dog in the far corner so he doesn’t try to dash out every time the door opens. Never let your dog jump on the other people in the elevator. If your dog is not well socialized, make it a point to train him. In the meantime check with management to see if you could take a freight elevator or the stairs if you’re not on a high floor. Never allow your dog to soil in front of the building’s entrance. If you have a young pup or dog-in-training who can’t control himself, be sure to carry paper towels and odor neutralizer.

If you are planning on visiting friends and you want to take your dog, always check to make sure that it’s ok to bring the dog. Make sure that your dog will not run through your friends home and possible destroy some valuable possessions . Make sure that your dog is trained and does not jump. Take along some dog toys to keep him occupied. Never just assume that taking your dog is “OK.” and never surprise your friends with your dog without checking first. Be considerate of others who may not be dog lovers or who may even be afraid of dogs. Always reward your dog with a dog treat for good behavior.

Remember, your pets count!

Turn on your favorite oldies! Edgewater Gold Radio. Ask Alexa to “play Edgewater Gold Radio or listen from our website; Edgewater Gold Radio.com.

Before we start, you should know what you should NEVER feed to your dog. These items are:

Onions
garlic
raisins or grapes
caffeine
chocolate
Raw meat
sugary foods
spicy foods
candy
lunch meat
cheese
These items may not have any external affects on your dog initially, but they really make a mess out of their insides. Their liver is affected and could be damaged. Also, avoid salty foods

Here are some food that’s OK to feed to your dog.

fruits
vegetables
nuts
fresh turkey or chicken (without the skin)
Sometimes your vet will even recommend these items in place of traditional dog treats.

You should always feed your dog a high quality dog food. Always limit the amount of table food that you give to your dog. The more table scraps that you give him, the more likely that he will become a picky eater and may no longer want his dog food. I would recommend not giving table scraps at all. You may give him some fruits, veggies or nuts once in awhile in place of his dog treats and you could throw in some dog toys to keep him in good shape.

Remember, your pets count!

Edgewater Gold Radio is your station for the best oldies of all time!  Great music, great memories all the time. Ask Alexa to “Play Edgewater Gold Radio” or listen from our website; Edgewater Gold Radio.com.

If you’re looking for a dog and you have a toddler in the house, don’t think that smaller is best. It may seem logical to you at first but small dogs are very fragile and your child could easily injure or even kill a dog by dropping it, stepping on it, shutting the door on it etc.

The very large dog breeds pose another problem. Even though very large dogs are usually very gentle, sturdy and robust, their size could injure your child. A Mastiff could easily knock down your child while trying to say “hello.”

It’s very difficult trying to stop a young child from poking, pulling, prodding and smothering a small puppy with hugs and kisses. Mid size dog breeds that have a very clam, tolerant and confident temperament may be a great choice if you have a small child in the home. Here are some breeds that you should consider.

Beagle
Boston Terrier
Cocker Spaniel
English Bulldog
English Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Wheaton Terrier
Always make sure that you’re in the room with the child and new puppy. Teach your child how to properly play with the puppy with his dog toys. Pay attention and make sure that your child and new puppy are bonding properly.

Remember,your pets count!

You’re favorite oldies are playing on Edgewater Gold Radio! Ask Alexa to “play Edgewater Gold Radio” or listen from our website, Edgewater Gold Radio.com.