To his owners, Moby, a 4-year-old Australian Shepherd, was a very healthy, spry dog, so when his veterinarian told them that beneath his thick, reddish-brown coat he had a weight problem, they were a bit shocked.

Apparently, all that baby food licked off the floor, and the lack of activity that came with the two toddlers who had recently joined the family, added about 10 extra pounds on a normally 65-pound dog. The good news is the veterinarian was able to put Moby on a program of diet and exercise, and he was back in perfect shape within a year.

Studies show that pet obesity is an epidemic in this country. According to a 2005 study, approximately 35 percent of American dogs and cats are obese or overweight, and some veterinarians report that they see even higher percentages now.

“I would say that probably more than 50 percent of the animals that we see are overweight,” says Dr. Larry R. Corry, a companion animal practitioner in Georgia and president of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). “We say that people are ‘killing their pets with caring.’ They want to give too much food, table scraps and too many treats. They simply don’t realize how unhealthy that can be.”

Obesity can cause a number of health problems, including diabetes and heart problems. Diabetes in animals can be treated successfully with diet and insulin, but treatments are expensive and difficult to undertake successfully with cats. Diabetes treatments require animals to eat on a consistent basis, and cats don’t often enjoy following a schedule. Treating obesity before the animal becomes diabetic is a far simpler solution, Dr. Corry says.

“If we can get pet owners to comply with weight-loss plans, usually we don’t have any problem getting the animal’s weight under control,”Corry says. “Weight-loss diets generally involve specially formulated pet foods or simply a reduction of the amount of food the animal receives.

“Every member of the family has to be in agreement, because if one person is slipping the dog scraps under the table, the program won’t work,” he continues.

For dogs and cats on a diet, one little treat can truly be a diet buster. For example, giving a cat one potato chip may not seem like an extravagant snack, but it’s equivalent to giving an adult human half a cheeseburger or half a candy bar. And giving your cat an ounce of milk is equivalent to eating four and a half cheeseburgers. Giving your pet pooch one hot dog is equivalent to you eating two cheeseburgers. Needless to say, giving a pet table scraps is a sure ticket to pet obesity.

The AVMA has partnered with Hill’s Pet Nutrition Inc. to combat obesity by sponsoring the Alliance for Healthier Pets – Obesity Awareness and Prevention Program. The initiative’s primary goal is to educate the public on how to recognize obesity and to suggest simple solutions. Visit www.petfit.com to see examples of how common pet treats translate into major calories. Watch as personal trainer Gunnar Petersen teaches pet owners how to exercise with their pets and then take the “Pet Fit” Challenge.

For more information about animal health, visit www.avma.org and visit www.avmatv.org for an informative video about pet obesity.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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(ARA) – Halloween, Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas, New Year’s Eve and Kwanzaa – no matter what you’re celebrating, pet owners need to remember to keep their pets safe and healthy for the holidays.

“Veterinarians often see an uptick in the number of problematic calls during the holiday season,” explains Dr. Larry R. Corry, AVMA president. “Whether it’s an exposure to chocolate or fatty foods or pets upset due to unexpected guests or costumed visitors late at night, the holidays can present problems for pets. The AVMA urges all pet owners to include the health and safety of their pets in any plans for the holidays.”

Here are the AVMA’s top 10 pet tips for holiday safety:

1. Be wary of holiday decorations; pets often consume them. “The animal raids the Christmas tree, for example, and this can be unhealthy for the pet and very upsetting for the pet owners,” explains Corry. “If they consume enough tinsel or other decorations, it can cause a blockage that requires surgery.”

2. Flowers are another common holiday feature that can result in an emergency visit. Poinsettias, Amaryllis and mistletoe are on the list of common holiday plants that can be dangerous and even poisonous to house pets who decide to eat them, Corry says.

3. Just like people, some pets are better at dealing with houseguests than others. If you know your pet has a problem with visitors, work with your veterinarian for solutions. For severe problems, your veterinarian may recommend medications or even boarding the animal.

4. Don’t let your pet climb the Christmas tree. If the tree falls over, your pet could be injured. Consider tying the tree to the ceiling or a doorframe using fishing line.

5. Cover Christmas tree water to keep animals from drinking it. The sap from live Christmas trees can make your pet sick.

6. Many people believe that people food makes good treats for their pets, but this isn’t the case. Many common ingredients in a holiday feast – like onions, garlic, chocolate and artificial sweeteners – are poisonous to pets. And dogs that consume an excessive amount of fatty foods, by cleaning a turkey carcass pulled from the trash, for example, can develop a life-threatening condition called pancreatitis.

7. Whether they are Halloween candies or Christmas chocolate, keep sweets out of your pet’s reach, particularly while you’re out. A pet that consumes chocolates while you’re away at work, for example, might be too sick for your veterinarian to save by the time you get home.

8. Unplug decorations while you’re not around. Cats and dogs are often tempted to chew electrical cords.

9. Keep any gift that includes human food out of a pet’s reach. With their sensitive sense of smell, dogs and cats can find those wrapped treats and open them when you’re not around.

10. Candles are a common part of many holiday celebrations. Make sure that you keep lit candles out of a pet’s reach, because the animal could light themselves, or your home, on fire.

The AVMA offers a great deal of information on its Web site, www.avma.org, including a free brochure on common household hazards and a free video about common household poisons.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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Pets cannot tolerate heat the same way as people. One big reason is that dogs don’t sweat, thereby lacking a natural way to cool down. To help ensure your pets don’t suffer from the heat, veterinarian Tracy Chase-Thompson, department chair of the veterinary technology program at Brown Mackie College in Michigan City, Ind., offers advice. “Heat exhaustion is one of the big things that can occur,” she says. “It happens more with dogs than cats, but it can occur with both.”

Heat exhaustion is a dangerous condition in animals that occurs due to lack of protection from hot weather and humidity. “It doesn’t take much time for heat exhaustion to develop,” says Chase-Thompson. “A dog can overheat in a hot vehicle in just 10 minutes.” Symptoms of heat exhaustion include heavy panting, drooling and labored breathing. “Gum color is another indicator. If gums appear red instead of pink, that’s a sign of an animal in distress.”

If it happens, Chase-Thompson recommends moving the animal to a cool spot immediately. “Give the dog water to drink, and wipe a cool washcloth over the fur. Don’t just dump water over the animal. It helps to place the paws in cool water as well,” she says. She does not recommend an ice bath. “If an animal cools too quickly, it can go into shock.”

Normal body temperature for a dog is between 101 F and 102 F. “A temperature higher than 105 F signals heat exhaustion,” says Chase-Thompson. In this case, the dog would require veterinarian care with IV fluids for hydration, and close monitoring of body temperature.

Pet owners can take a number of precautions to prevent heat stress and exhaustion in pets. If your dog will spend any amount of time outside, Chase-Thompson advises providing a shelter so that the dog can access shade at all times, and walking your dog before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m. when sunlight and humidity are less powerful. “It is safer to leave your pet at home on hot or humid days rather than in the car, even with the windows cracked. If you must take your pet, park in the shade, open the window, and don’t leave for more than 10 minutes,” she adds.

Another concern among pet owners is how to protect a pet that is afraid of the noise from fireworks and thunderstorms. “Some pets have a fear of noise at a young age. Others are fine when they’re young, yet become bothered by loud sounds as they grow older,” says Chase-Thompson. “It’s impossible to make the noise go away, but there are ways to minimize or disguise the noise.

“If you leave the dog alone, it could help to leave music playing. Turn on the radio or TV, or even a loud fan or air conditioner,” she advises. “If the animal’s reaction is really bad, I recommend staying with your pet to provide reassurance. There are anti-anxiety medications that a veterinarian can prescribe.” Chase-Thompson advises discussing with your veterinarian whether your pet is a good candidate. “Medications can help, but they don’t always work. It is important to lessen your pet’s fear with other types of comfort,” she says.

Try to give your pet a safe place where they won’t hurt themselves. And forget about reprimanding behavior that results from fear of loud noises. “They can’t simply change,” Chase-Thompson says. “Some pets like an item of the owner’s for comfort, like a T-shirt or old shoe.” A little knowledge can go a long way in protecting your pet from the pitfalls that summer brings.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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(ARA) – Do you hate your pet’s breath? Well, did you know that bad dog or cat breath is a sign of dental disease? About 80 percent of humans brush our teeth at least twice a day, according to the American Dental Association. But most of us completely neglect our pets’ teeth. There is no time like the present to start maintaining the dental health of your four-legged friend to help prevent problems like gingivitis, periodontal disease, infections and tooth loss.

“There are many symptoms of dental disease to watch out for, including bad, almost putrid, breath,” explains Dr. James Cook, president of the American Veterinary Medical Association. “Your pet could be in a lot of pain, and you might not realize it. For example, if you see your pet approach a bowl of food then back away, that could be a sign of tooth pain. Your animal can’t tell you he or she is suffering or in pain, so it’s important to get your pet’s teeth checked by your veterinarian.”

Here are six tips to help keep your pets’ smile healthy:

* Brush their teeth.
Specially made toothpaste in flavors like chicken, seafood, beef and mint and soft, pet-friendly toothbrushes are available at pet supply stores or from your veterinarian. With some training (visit www.avmatv.com for a 5.5 minute instructional video) pets can learn to tolerate or even enjoy a daily brushing.

* A dental checkup.
If you’ve never had your veterinarian check your pet’s teeth, your pet is long overdue. Schedule an appointment today. Veterinarians recommend at least an annual checkup of your pet’s teeth. If periodontal disease is found, your pet can be sedated for teeth cleaning.

* Give a rawhide treat.
Rawhide is that piece of raw leather your dog looks forward to so much, but it also helps scrub plaque off your pet’s teeth. A small daily treat that makes a dog so happy could save money at the veterinarian years from now and save your dog’s teeth. Check with your veterinarian to make sure rawhide is an appropriate treat for your dog.

* Wrap up a rope toy.
Rope toys for dogs and cats help keep plaque and gingivitis at bay. Just carrying a rope toy in their mouth helps to keep an animal’s teeth clean, and playing with it does an even better job.

* Try dental treats.
Specially made dental treats are available at pet stores and at your veterinarian’s office. These treats are made to be difficult to chew and swallow, and are shaped to help scrub teeth as they’re consumed.

* A pet food present.
Consider feeding your pet a specially formulated pet food designed to improve dental health in pets.

For more information on pet dental health visit www.avma.org or www.avmatv.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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Recent studies show pet owners now spend $24.5 billion a year on veterinary services, over-the-counter drugs and other health supplies for pets.

We all love our pets and for good reason. They provide a great deal of joy in our lives and offer unconditional love. That’s why whether it’s a routine annual exam, ongoing flea and heartworm control, or a medical treatment for cancer, a growing number of pet owners are making a serious commitment to give their pets the best health and preventive care available. But over time, this care can be expensive.

Recent studies show pet owners now spend $24.5 billion a year on veterinary services, over-the-counter drugs and other health supplies for pets. Tremendous advancements in veterinary technology have helped increase the life span of cats and dogs. For example, expensive medical treatments like cat scans, MRIs and chemotherapy — services once only available for people — are now being used to help save the lives of pets.

Pet owners’ beloved four-legged friends can sometimes face unexpected medical emergencies or illnesses, resulting in the difficult decision whether or not to spend thousands of dollars to save the life of their pet. Having pet health insurance helps allow pet owners to decide with their hearts, not their wallets, what’s best for their pets in their time of need.

But with so many plans out there, how do you know which one to choose? Here are some factors to consider:

1. Insure young.
The best time to purchase pet insurance is when the animal is young. Many pet health insurance plans do not cover pre-existing conditions so it is best to insure your pet when it is a puppy or kitten. Insuring early can also provide coverage for certain initial veterinary procedures such as vaccinations and spaying/neutering.

2. What kind of coverage does the plan offer?
There are many different types of pet health insurance policies available. Some policies cover only accidents, some cover accidents and illnesses, while others offer coverage for accidents, illnesses and preventive care. The preventive care coverage can include certain customary annual costs of routine vaccinations, flea and heartworm preventative medications, routine annual physical exams and lab tests, and other preventive care as outlined in the policy.

3. Do I have to pay a deductible?
Just like with human insurance, different plans have different deductibles. PurinaCare pet health insurance, the first pet health insurance under the Purina brand, allows pet owners to choose from four different deductible options: $100, $250, $500 or $1,000. There is a 20-percent co-pay once the annual deductible has been met, and the benefit limit is $20,000 annually.

4. Are certain conditions excluded?
Pet insurance exclusions can vary depending on the policy chosen. Common exclusions include pre-existing medical conditions, cosmetic and elective procedures, fertility and pregnancy.

5. Can I use my own veterinarian?
It depends on the plan. PurinaCare pet health insurance, for example, allows pet owners to take their pet to the veterinarian of their choice, including veterinary specialists such as oncologists, neurologists and allergists, as long as they are licensed in the United States.

“Pet health insurance can help pet owners provide the best care possible for their pets in a time of need. However, less than one percent of pets are currently insured due to a lack of awareness of pet insurance, and dissatisfaction with current plan options. We are excited to use Purina’s pet expertise, innovation, brand trust and experience to deliver simple, comprehensive and easy-to-use pet health insurance that meets the needs of today’s highly involved pet owners,” says David Goodnight, D.V.M., president and chief operating officer of PurinaCare Insurance Services., Inc.

For more information about PurinaCare or to obtain a free, no obligation quote, visit www.purinacare.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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Salmonella can cause serious infections in dogs and cats, and, if
there is cross contamination caused by handling of the pet food, in
people as well, especially children, the aged, and people with
compromised immune systems.

Pets with Salmonella infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. Some pets will have only decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Animals can be carriers with no visible symptoms and can potentially infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately.

The company stopped production at the Everson facility on July 29, 2008, when it was alerted of a possible link between dry pet food produced at the plant and two isolated cases of people infected with Salmonella Schwarzengrund.

Even though no direct link between product produced at Everson and
human or pet illness has been made, Mars Petcare US is taking
precautionary action to protect pets and their owners by announcing a
voluntary recall of all products produced at the Everson facility
beginning February 18, 2008, until July 29, 2008, when they stopped
production.

The company is continuing to work collaboratively with the FDA to
determine the nature and source of Salmonella Schwarzengrund at the
Everson facility. Since it has not yet identified the source of the
Salmonella Schwarzengrund at the Everson facility, Mars Petcare US
does not plan to resume production.

Only those products that were produced at the Everson facility are impacted by the voluntary recall. Many of the brands involved in the recall are national brands produced at multiple facilities.

For example, PEDIGREE® is manufactured in numerous facilities
throughout the country, and Everson represents a very small portion
of the manufacturing base – 2.7 percent of total PEDIGREE® production.

In the event that you believe you have purchased products affected by this voluntary recall, you should return the product to the store where you purchased it for a full refund.

The products listed below are made at the Everson facility on behalf
of a variety of retailers. All code dates, with the exception of
PEDIGREE®, are listed in a similar format as noted below:
Consumers should look for “17″ as the first two digits of the second
line. Sample:
Best By Feb 18 09
17 1445 1

For PEDIGREE® the Everson code date format is as follows:

Consumers should look for “PAE” on the bottom line – the sixth,
seventh and eighth digits. Sample:
PEDIGREE ® Small Crunchy Bites
Best Before 02/2009
808G1PAE01 12:00

Pet owners who have questions about the recall should call 1-877-568-
4463 or visit www.petcare.mars.com.

Recalled Pet Food

Note: If you see a product you purchased listed below, please review
the code date information samples from above to confirm that your
product is included in the recall.

Product are listed with name and bag size with the UPC code on the
next line.
Country Acres Cat Food 40#
16603 02181

Retriever Bites & Bones Dog Food 8#
79818 96757

Country Acres Ration Dog Food 40#
16603 02333

Retriever Bites & Bones Dog Food 20#
79818 96634

Country Acres 18% Dog Food 40#
16603 02331

Retriever Bites & Bones Dog Food 50#
49394 05666

Country Acres Hi Pro Dog Food 50#
16603 02021

Retriever Gravy Blend Dog Food 50#
49394 05665

Doggy Bag Dog Food 40#
73893 40000

Retriever Gravy Blend Dog Food 8#
79818 96756

Members Mark Complete Nutrition Premium Cat Food 20#
81131 89881

Retriever Hi Protein Dog Food 8#
79818 96755

Members Mark Complete Nutrition Premium Dog Food 50#
05388 67055

Retriever Hi Protein Dog Food 25#
49394 00002

Members Mark Crunchy Bites & Savory Bones Adult Dog Food 50#
05388 67309

Retriever Hi Protein Dog Food 50#
49394 00003

Members Mark High Performance Premium Dog Food 50#
81131 75479

Retriever Mini Chunk Dog Food 8#
79818 96754

Natural Cat Food (Sam’s Club) 15#
81131 89883

Retriever Mini Chunk Dog Food 25#
49394 00006

Natural Dog Food (Sam’s Club) 25#
81131 89884

Retriever Mini Chunk Dog Food 50#
49395 00005

Ol’ Roy Complete Nutrition 4.4#
81131 69377

Retriever Puppy Blend Dog Food 6#
49394 56221

Ol’ Roy Complete Nutrition 8#
05388 67144

Retriever Puppy Blend Dog Food 8#
79818 96758

Ol’ Roy Complete Nutrition 22#
05388 60342

Retriever Puppy Blend Dog Food 20#
49394 00004

Ol’ Roy Complete Nutrition 50#
78742 01022

Retriever Puppy Blend Dog Food 40#
79818 96706

Ol’ Roy High Performance Nutrition Dog Food 20#
05388 60345

Special Kitty Gourmet 3.5#
81131 17546

Ol’ Roy High Performance Nutrition Dog Food 50#
78742 05815

Special Kitty Gourmet 4#
78742 53199

Ol’ Roy Meaty Chunks ‘n Gravy Dog Food 8#
81131 69629

Special Kitty Gourmet 7#
81131 17547

Ol’ Roy Meaty Chunks ‘n Gravy Dog Food 22#
81131 69630

Special Kitty Gourmet 8#
78742 53200

Ol’ Roy Meaty Chunks ‘n Gravy Dog Food 50#
81131 69631

Special Kitty Gourmet 18#
81131 15748

Ol’ Roy Puppy Complete 4#
81131 79078

Special Kitty Gourmet 20#
78742 53201

Ol’ Roy Puppy Complete 8#
81131 79079

Special Kitty Gourmet 25#
78742 54314

Ol’ Roy Puppy Complete 20#
81131 79080

Special Kitty Kitten 3.5#
81131 17553

Paws & Claws Delicious Mix Cat Food 8#
79818 96632

Special Kitty Kitten 4#
78742 53198

Paws & Claws Delicious Mix Cat Food 20#
49394 05746

Special Kitty Kitten 7#
81131 17554

Paws & Claws Delicious Mix Cat Food 40#
79818 96676

Special Kitty Kitten 8#
81131 24739

Paws & Claws Premium Choice Cat Food 8#
79818 96633

Special Kitty Original 3.5#
81131 17557

Paws & Claws Premium Choice Cat Food 20#
49394 00008

Special Kitty Original 4#
78742 04930

Paws & Claws Premium Choice Cat Food 40#
49394 05747

Special Kitty Original 7#
81131 17562

Pedigree Large Breed Adult Nutrition 20#
23100 29158

Special Kitty Original 8#
78742 05744

Pedigree Large Breed Adult Nutrition 30.1#
23100 31484

Special Kitty Original 18#
81131 17559

Pedigree Large Breed Adult Nutrition 36.4#
23100 31479

Special Kitty Original 20#
78742 05794

Pedigree Large Breed Adult Nutrition 40#
23100 29154

Special Kitty Original 25#
81131 68869

Pedigree Small Crunchy Bites Adult Nutrition 4.4#
23100 05104

Wegman’s Bruiser Complete Nutrition Dog Food 4.4#
77890 33654

Pedigree Small Crunchy Bites Adult Nutrition 8.8#
23100 05103

Wegman’s Bruiser Complete Nutrition Dog Food 20#
77890 32988

Pedigree Small Crunchy Bites Adult Nutrition 20#
23100 14719

Wegman’s Bruiser Complete Nutrition Dog Food 37.5#
77890 32994

Pedigree Small Crunchy Bites Adult Nutrition 32#
23100 31483

Wegman’s Bruiser Puppy Dog Food 4.4#
77890 33621

Pedigree Small Crunchy Bites Adult Nutrition 40#
23100 31478

Wegman’s Bruiser Puppy Dog Food 17.6#
77890 32991

Pedigree Small Crunchy Bites Adult Nutrition 44#
23100 05100

Wegman’s Bruiser Small Crunchy Bites Dog Food 4.4#
77890 33618

Pedigree Small Crunchy Bites Adult Nutrition 52#
23100 05110

Wegman’s Bruiser Small Crunchy Bites Dog Food 20#
77890 32982

Pet Pride Indoor Cat 3.5#
11110 74584

Wegman’s Buju & Ziggie Complete Cat Food 3.5#
77890 10005

Pet Pride Indoor Cat 18#
11110 74585

Wegman’s Buju & Ziggie Complete Cat Food 18#
77890 10004

Pet Pride Weight Management Dog Food 17.6#
11110 74578

Wegman’s Buju & Ziggie Indoor Cat Food 3.5#
77890 12038

PMI Nutrition Bites & Bones Dog Food 50#
42869 00174

Wegman’s Buju & Ziggie Indoor Cat Food 18#
77890 12039

PMI Nutrition Canine Advantage 50#
42869 00172

Wegman’s Buju & Ziggie Kitten 3.5#
77890 12036

PMI Nutrition Feline Medley 20#
42869 00171

Wegman’s Buju & Ziggie Original Medley Cat Food 3.5#
77890 10006

PMI Nutrition Gravy Crunches Dog Food 40#
42869 00033

Wegman’s Buju & Ziggie Original Medley Cat Food 18#
77890 10003

Red Flannel Active Formula Dog Food 40#
42869 00063

Red Flannel Adult Formula Dog Food 20#
42869 00055

Red Flannel Adult Formula Dog Food 40#
42869 00054

Red Flannel Canine Select Dog Food 20#
42869 00068

Red Flannel C anine Select Dog Food 40#
42869 00067

Red Flannel Cat 10#
42869 00059

Red Flannel Cat 20#
42869 00058

Red Flannel Hi Pro Formula Dog Food 50#
42869 00065

Red Flannel Prime Dog Food 25#
42869 00052

Red Flannel Prime Dog Food 50#
42869 00053

Red Flannel Puppy 40#
42869 00056

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Avoiding Expensive Visits and Treatment Begins with Simple Changes at Home

Five Tips for Keeping Pets Healthy and Vet Bills Down

(ARA) – When it comes to caring for our pets’ health, most of us don’t bat an eye when it comes to spending money on expensive prescriptions or procedures, even for common health problems like skin allergies, digestive upset and urinary tract infections.

But with the average household owning 1.7 dogs and 2.2 cats, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association’s 2007 survey, those visits can add up. Now more than ever, pet owners are seeking out ways to keep their vet bills down while maintaining the health and happiness of their pets.

“We’re all trying to trim daily expenditures to compensate for rising commodity costs, and unnecessary expenses are usually the first to go,” says Dr. Susan Lauten, pet expert and nutrition consultant. “While there may be health problems that require a vet’s treatment, many common pet ailments can be treated and prevented in more cost effective ways.”

Lauten offers five ways to help keep your pet healthy while reducing healthcare costs.

1. Good nutrition is the key to good health. Instead of skimping on your pet food budget, select high quality foods with high levels of meat proteins and whole grains. Healthy pets with strong immune systems, healthy coats and strong teeth are less susceptible to disease.

2. Feeding your pet a variety of foods can minimize the development of food allergies. By providing pets with different proteins and forms, like kibble, canned and raw frozen, the Rotation Diet from Nature’s Variety offers the full spectrum of nutrients cats and dogs need to avoid food-related health problems.

3. Keep your pet clean and parasite-free. Paying extra attention to grooming during the summer months can help avoid skin disease, parasite-related diseases from ticks and fleas, and hot spots.

4. Make sure your pet visits the veterinarian for regular checkups. It’s also important to talk to your veterinarian about the importance of proper nutrition and holistic healthcare options for your special pet.

5. If your pet shows signs of illness, be sure to visit your veterinarian right away. Early detection can reduce the overall cost of treatment.

Lauten stresses the fact that quality pet food should remain a financial priority. “Changing to a low quality food to save money can result in increased food requirements, poor immune health, decreased coat quality and poor skin health,” says Lauten. “In the end, it could result in more vet expenditures and more bills.”

Sage’s Story
Sage was dropped off at the Benicia Vallejo Humane Society in Vallejo, Calif., when she was just a puppy. The underweight Boxer was suffering from severe skin problems, was missing large patches of hair and was in generally poor health. The Director of Human Services, Peter Wilson, was deeply concerned for Sage’s well-being and considered a variety of options for treatment.

“Sage’s skin condition was from a lack of care and possible allergies,” says Wilson. “Nature’s Variety donated product to help with Sage and encouraged us to feed her a Rotation Diet with different forms of kibble, canned and raw frozen food, and different proteins such as chicken and duck.”

The variety of foods in the Rotation Diet provided Sage with more balanced nutrition, which helped to stabilize her health and combat any possible allergies. In a few weeks, Sage’s skin had begun to heal. Sage is now happy, healthy, allergy-free and living with her new adoptive family.

“Sage’s story is a perfect example of the effect a quality diet can have on a pet’s overall health,” says Lauten. “All it took was the implementation of a broader and balanced variety of foods to provide her with the nutrients she needed to get better.”

More Quality Now, Fewer Problems Later
Strong health starts with proper nutrition. Feeding a high-quality Rotation Diet will help keep pets in top condition so they are more resistant to health problems. Adding in exercise and routine check-ups will also ensure your dog or cat maintains optimal wellness.

For more information on the health benefits of balanced, nutritionally complete diets, as well as a feeding guide for determining your pet’s specific needs, visit www.naturesvariety.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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Veterinarians at the North Pole Give Expert Advice on Winter Care

(ARA) – Dr. Margaret Eastman wasn’t born at the North Pole. She was attracted to life in the town of North Pole, Ala. (located near Fairbanks), in part by her love of dog sledding. While studying veterinary medicine in Wisconsin in the early 1990s, she saw her first dog sled race and she was hooked.

Since moving to the North Pole in 2004, she’s become a winter pet-health expert. She’s served as a veterinarian on the world-famous Iditarod dog sled race — a 1,150 mile race between Anchorage and Nome, Ala. — and also as head veterinarian on the Yukon Quest, a 1,000 mile dog sled race.

Upon arriving in Alaska, she had some surprises. Dehydration is an important consideration on a cold day, Dr. Eastman says. Cold air is dry air, and, contrary to common assumption, pets do not hydrate themselves well by eating snow, it chills the body and a large amount of snow melts down to a tiny amount of water.

“In the cold Alaskan air, it’s easy to dehydrate,” she says. “Older dogs are especially susceptible. You think it’s not a problem in winter because it’s not hot, but if you’re out for a long walk with your dog on one of those beautiful winter days, keep in mind that you need to stop for water just as often as in the summer.”

Dogs love snow, but thin ice should be avoided. “It’s not uncommon for a dog to fall through the ice,” Dr. Eastman says. “Dogs don’t judge ice well, and, once they fall in, it’s very difficult to get them out. Use some common sense around lakes and rivers in the wintertime.”

Dr. Stuart Nelson Jr., has worked on the Iditarod as a veterinarian for over two decades, including the last 13 years as the chief of veterinary staff. He and his staff of about 45 must be ready for any canine ailment. All 1,200 sled dogs must have physical examinations, electrocardiograms and other tests within 14 days of the race. And the dogs are randomly tested for performance-enhancing drugs. He said he was attracted to the sport because he admires the dogs and compares them to marathon runners in their abilities and physique.

“I’ve always been interested in animal athletes,” he says. “These dogs are very hardy. Working on the race, we have very few incidences of frostbite in the animals. We’re far more vulnerable than dogs to frostbite.”

Winter Pet Checklist
Pets in many parts of the country face extreme temperatures in the winter and face winter dangers. Drs. Nelson and Eastman and the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) offer these cold weather tips:

* Watch cats for frostbite. “With cats, the tissue on the ears is very fragile, and it’s not uncommon to see frostbite,” Dr. Eastman says. Frostbitten skin is red or grey in color and may slough. Apply warm, moist towels to thaw the frostbitten area slowly until it appears flushed and contact your veterinarian immediately.

* If you have an outdoor cat, check your car engine before starting your car. Many cats seek out the warmth of a car engine on cold winter nights, and starting the car with them on top of the engine block can be deadly.

* Most pets should be brought inside during the coldest days of winter. If a pet must be kept outdoors, Dr. Nelson recommends that it be provided a dry dog house, some insulation such as straw, a constant source of fresh water (a heated bowl can be a great comfort) and also it’s very important that the animal be naturally, gradually introduced to the cold with the change of seasons. An indoor dog cannot be moved into the backyard in January, because it will not have built up a thick, warm winter coat.

* In the wintertime, an indoor dog may need slightly less food, because the house pet may be less active than in warmer months, but outdoor dogs require more fuel to keep warm. For example, Dr. Nelson says Iditarod sled dogs feast on about 10,000 calories a day, with up to 80 percent of the calories coming from fat. An average house pet of the same size might eat about 1,500 calories a day. Talk to your veterinarian to get dietary tips for your pet.

* Far more dangerous to pets than icy weather are chemicals commonly used in the wintertime, such as road salt and antifreeze. Antifreeze tastes good to pets and small children but is highly poisonous. Keep any containers well out of reach and clean up any spills. Road salt can dry out and crack the paw pads of a dog and will cause stomach upset if a pup licks it off. Remember to clean your dog paws after a winter walk.

* Dr. Nelson says that booties are used by sled dogs to protect the webbing between toes from injury, and they also can help protect against road salt for city pets.

* Dog jackets and sweaters are also recommended for outdoor dogs during extreme weather, and for indoor dogs that haven’t built up a full winter undercoat. Dr. Nelson explains that these jackets need only cover a dog’s torso to help keep the animal warm and comfy. “We almost never see frostbite around the extremities of a dog,” Dr. Nelson explained.

For more information on winter health for dogs and cats, and any other health questions or concerns about your animals, please visit the AVMA Web site at www.avma.org.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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A researcher at the University of Hertfordshire, England, has proven that pets and their owners often look, think and act alike. Unfortunately, that’s not always a good thing; pets and humans can have similar weight problems.

It’s estimated that between 25 and 40 percent of dogs and cats and 31 percent of people in this country are overweight. The problem is even worse for pet horses; a recent study at the Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine and Virginia Tech found roughly half were overweight.

What’s the solution? Add your pets to your own weight-loss resolutions for 2008. Having a companion will help you lose weight and improve your pet’s health. Studies have shown that people who exercise with friends are far more likely to keep up a workout regimen and that people diet more effectively with friends. Exercising with a four-legged friend results in a healthier pet owner, and can even help a human recover from surgery more quickly.

“What many of us assumed was true for decades has now been proven — taking a dog for a walk is healthy for both the dog and the dog’s owner,” says Dr. Roger K. Mahr, past president of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), who has spoken out on the important linkages between animal and human health. “Many pet owners are probably more concerned about exercising their pets than they are about getting some exercise for their own health, but both will live a healthier life as a result. Pets don’t just improve your quality of life; they also improve your health.”

Just like humans, overweight dogs and cats are more likely to get a number of diseases and health problems, including diabetes, heart disease, skin conditions, liver disease, and joint problems. So putting yourself, Fido, Fluffy, and/or Flicka on a diet and exercise regiment will result in a better new year for everyone.

Here are some AVMA pet weight-loss tips:

* A visit to your veterinarian is the best way to determine if your pet is overweight, but there are a couple common sense guidelines. A dog should have a discernible waist without fat deposits, and ribs should be easy to feel while stroking a dog. In cats, if there is any rounding of the abdomen or bulging in the back, limbs, neck or face, you’ve got a fat cat.

* Carefully measure the food you give your pets and feed them at least twice a day. If the pet hasn’t finished their food in about 20 minutes, take the bowl away to discourage overeating. Dogs and cats fed once a day, or continuously, tend to be the fattest.

* Monitor the number and size of the treats you give in praise. A large dog treat can be over 100 calories, while a small treat has as little as 10 calories. If you can’t help but treat your beloved pet, break them in half to cut the calories.

* Diet pet foods are available but must meet certain standards to qualify for that designation. For instance, “low-calorie” dog food must be no more than 310 calories per cup for dry food or 90 calories per 1/2 cup wet, and “low-fat” or “lean” must be no more than 9 percent fat in dry food and 4 percent fat wet.

* High-fiber pet foods can help a pet’s diet by making your best friend feel full with fewer calories. No-salt, canned string beans can be added to either dry or wet food to provide bulk and fiber with very few calories.

* The more exercise the better … research has shown that dogs are 10 percent less likely to be obese for each hour of exercise they got every day.

* To exercise a cat, engage them with a feather, string or laser pointer, and try to get them running after a toy as they swat at it. To exercise a dog, consider agility training, play time with other dogs, and chasing a ball or Frisbee. There is no better exercise for dogs, horses and humans than a brisk walk.

* Hypothyroidism is a common cause of obesity in humans, dogs and cats, but it’s much easier to diagnose in humans. If your dog or cat is obese without a clear cause, make a veterinary appointment.

* Finally, if your pet is a little on the pudgy side, and you think it might benefit from an increased exercise regiment, see a veterinarian first. No exercise program should begin without a veterinary checkup. If your pet is more than 20 percent overweight, consult your veterinarian immediately.

For more information on pet health, please visit www.avma.org.

Courtesy ARAcontent

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You may not be able to tell if your pet has parasites; animals that do not appear to be sick or run-down can shed parasite eggs in their feces that contaminate the environment and some parasite eggs can last for more than a year in the soil.

Practice good hygiene

Wash hands regularly, especially after handling pets or cleaning up pet waste.

Understand the risk, especially for young children who are more likely to put dirty hands in their mouth, and play in dirt, grass or sand.

Deworm your pet on a regular schedule recommended by your veterinarian

Preventive medications, such as those provided by Bayer Parasite Solutions, remove internal parasites and prevent further contamination of the environment to control the transmission of parasitic zoonoses (parasites that are passed from animals to humans).

Clean cat litter boxes daily

This is especially important for families with young children.

Do not allow children to go barefoot, sit or lie on the playgrounds or in parks where they are exposed to animal stools

As fecal matter breaks down, eggs remain in the soil and a dog or child playing in a contaminated area is at risk of exposure to infective eggs or larvae. One common internal parasite is hookworm and their larvae can penetrate the skin.

Keep pets flea-free

Ingestion of fleas can transmit tapeworms to both animals and people. Keep your pets flea free to minimize the risk of tapeworm infection.

Wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating

Any food or item that may have been in contact with soil should be washed before ingesting.

Do not drink water, or allow your pet to drink water from streams or other sources that may be contaminated with animal feces.

Credit: www.newscanada.com

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