Winter Wonderland and Your Dog

As the season changes and the snow and cold approaches us, we must consider how this affects our dogs.
Like humans, dogs can experience hypothermia and frostbite. They can also become victims of inappropriate shelter, lack of water and become poisoned by heating oil and antifreeze.
When going outside you must make a conscience effort to keep your dog warm:
Short haired breeds or puppies- please consider a sweater or coat. Chances are they will only want to go out for a quick potty break. Because of their lack of fur they will become cold much quicker. Take them out and immediately back in. A quick 5-10 minute piddle break is sufficient and then you can spoil them with outdoor play time. You and your dog will be much warmer and happier.

Long haired breeds and big dogs- They will probably be pummeling through the snow in your yard and having a great time. Keep an eye on them, do limit their time, but know they will have a longer tolerance to the cold than the tiny pups.

Dry your dogs off thoroughly when they come in. This will eliminate the chill that could linger along their bodies and help prevent the flu. For our long haired furry friends, brush regularly, salt and dirt could build up in their fur. This could also cause other health problems, make your dog smell, and will most likely drag a lot of dirt into your home too.
Check all your dogs paws for salt. If they have fur in between their paws, cut the fur back or ask your groomer to do this. Salt could build up and sting your dog or may cause your dog to lick profusely. This may cause your dogs to cut their paw pads while they are trying to dig the salt out.
Frostbite does happen quite quickly to our pets. The most common areas affected are the ears, toes tails and their lungs. But how do you know if your dog is experiencing frostbite? The frost bitten area may become read or swollen or the skin may become pale. Your dog may even attempt to tell your with a little whimper too.
If Frostbite is to happen: Cover the area in a blanket and rub your hands over that area. This will help get the blood to circulate. Also, take a warm towel and place it on the affected area, please do not use a hot towel. Hot over warm may be too strong for your dog and this could cause the body to go into shock. Call your Veterinarian if you believe your dog has experienced frostbite.
On the days our weather provides strong winds or low temperatures and the wind-chill falls below zero are the days you will want to forgo a long walk with your dog. Hypothermia can set in quite quickly with your dog. Dogs that experiences hypothermia usually show signs of shivering, stumbling, drowsiness and their body temperatures will have dropped dramatically. Same as a dog with frostbite, if you believe your dog has experienced hypothermia please contact your Veterinarian immediately.

Winter is here and will be with us for the next couple of months. As a dog owner if your take the proper precautions both you and your dog will have a lot of fun together and enjoy this Winter Wonderland !

http://northandover.patch.com/blog_posts/winter-wonderland-and-your-dog

Plan Ahead for Hurricane Sandy and Your Pets

Hurricane Sandy may or may not grace us with her presences this coming week however, let’s PLAN and be prepared:

1. A couple extra cans of dog or cat food
2. Can opener – manual not electric
3. Buy a gallon of water
4. Super yummy treats and a favorite toy
5. Medications- ( may be worth getting the prescription filled if running low )
6. Collar with ID tags – animals name and phone number and your contact info
7. Crate or a carrier – incase you must evacuate
8. Flashlight and extra batteries
9. Wee Wee pads and some cleaning supplies
10. Pet First Aid kit

Plan on indoor playtime! If you have a dog and cat that tend not to get along or a cat that is typically an outdoor cat…well your house may have a little extra energy this week. Please remember this is not the norm for your pets, they may be nervous, tired and or anxious please have a little extra patience with them.
Bring in your outdoor pets…ALL cats must come in!

1. If you have bunnies, try bringing their cage into your garage for a few days
2. If you have a barn, prep it and have extra food available incase you are unable to get outside to check on your animals

If you need to evacuate please remember:

1. Most hotels will allow you to bring your pet "in case of an emergency" but please call to confirm first.
2. If you are going to a family or friend’s home, This is all new to your pet too, understand your animal’s behavior may not be his normal self.
3. If you are being placed in a shelter please confirm they allow pets. A RED CROSS SHELTER WILL NOT ALLOW ANY ANIMAL INTO THEIR SHELTERS. Please request a town or FEMA sponsored shelter as they care and realize your pet is your family ~ ALL are welcomed

Tracey is the owner of Wiggles & Jiggles Pet Care of North Andover MA www.wigglewalk.webs.com on facebook at www.facebook.com/wigglesjigglespetcare

http://northandover.patch.com/blog_posts/plan-ahead-for-hurricane-sandy-and-your-pets

Animal Evacuation for Isaac: Have We Learned From Katrina?

courtesty photo AP Photo David J. Phillip

As I write this blog on Thursday August 30, 2012, 8 a.m., Hurricane Isaac has already hit ground in the Gulf of Mexico, Mississippi, Georgia and Alabama. Many homes have been destroyed and thousands of people have been evacuated. But the lingering question is What about their pets?

First of all, our prayers from all of us in North Andover, MA to all of the people affected by this storm. Included in our prayers will be the safety of your pets, livestock and wildlife.

Hurricane Katrina was the deadliest and most destructive hurricane of the 2005 Atlantic hurricane season. As the rescue efforts began with Katrina, one of the worst mistakes that was made during the rescue effort was mandating people leave their pets behind. First responders were instructed to evacuate people only, save human life first, leave animals behind. More disturbing The Red Cross refused to allow pets into their designated shelters.

Yes, by theory it may make sense to some "save the human first" but to animal lovers this was absolutely not an option! As rescue teams came to help people from their rooftops, once these folks found out they were unable to take their pets with them, many refused to leave. In return, many people and pets lost their lives.
Question to you- Would you leave your pet behind in a natural disaster? The answer for me is NO. My Lani is my dog but she is my family. Leaving her is NOT an option I would even consider. If Mother Nature is going to take my dog, she is going to take me too! ( Would a Parent leave his/her child behind ?) NO, so why would I leave my Lani behind? Clearly from what happened with Katrina, thousands of other people felt the same way and did not evacuate.

During Katrina...

1. First Responders were told to save human life and leave pets

2. Red Cross refused animals into their shelters

3. Thousands of people refused evacuation because they were not going to leave their pets behind

4. Many pets that did make it to shelters were never reunited with their families: Family member may have died, animals may not have been micro chipped or had not identification on their collars or people became homeless and didn't have a place for their pet to live.

During Katrina, who could forget Anderson Cooper in the canoe filming and saving animals? Anderson was filming dogs on roof tops, tied to trees left to die and animals swimming for survival. He was the leader in educating the entire world on the flaws in protecting our pets, lack of inclusion in evacuation plans and informing Local, State, and Federal Officials that this was truly a life or death problem for animal and humans. I will never forget the raw emotion of Anderson yelling into the camera demanding first responders to get back out there and save the animals. Anderson Cooper opened the eyes to many in our country to the extent of this problem. He really is an Animal and Human Advocate !

Seven years later.....

There has been great progress with rescue to our animals and evacuation plans:

1. After Katrina many States, including Massachusetts passed legislation to include animals in evacuation plans.

2. Red Cross still doesn't allow animals in their shelters however, they have become more collaborative and have partnered with many rescue leagues. The rescue leagues are being allowed to set up shelter in the same location or near the Red Cross shelters. This will allow the families to still be near their pets. In many cases this will also save lives, people that may not have evacuated before will now as they can be with "ALL" their family members.

During Isaac...

1. Rescue leagues across the country have started their campaigns.

2. Media outlets have shown endless pictures of first responders rescuing families including their pet.

Since Isaac is still an active storm, we will not have the true assessment for a few days. However let's all say a prayer and hope there really were "Lessons learned from Katrina."

http://northandover.patch.com/blog_posts/animal-evacuation-for-isaac-have-we-learned-from-katrina#photo-11174597

Help! My Dog Is Lost - What Do I Do ?



Losing a pet can be one of the scariest experiences a pet owner may ever be faced with. Here in North Andover, well we seem to know this well. This past year our town has seen an upswing in dogs getting away from their owners and taking a stroll around town.
The BEST way to find your dog is to act quickly. If your dog has taken off, gotten out of his collar, snuck out the door or you just can't find him: Call North Andover Animal Control, Amy McCarthy at the North Andover Police Dept. 978-683-3168

START your search immediately. Please do not wait for your pet to "just return home". Grab your leash, some treats, a bottle of water and a blanket. Put a crate in your car and begin your search.
As you are reading this STOP what you are doing right now and take a PICTURE of your dog !
( why not? He is cute anyway) Keep an up to date photo on your phone and download a copy to your computer. Update this picture a few times a year and make a note of any special markings your pet may have.
TIPS FOR FINDING YOUR LOST PET

• Immediately contact NAPD , contact Bulgers Animal Hospital and also contact Andover Animal Hospital and the MSPCA to complete a lost pet report.
• Make sure you supply the best telephone number to reach you any time of the day in case your pet is found.
• Post fliers with your pet’s picture around the area where he was last seen and around your neighborhood.
• Contact your Veterinarian

ADDITIONAL TIPS - SOCIAL MEDIA utilize every form of social media available

• Post a picture of your pet on your Facebook page and ask all your family, friends, your dog walker, groomer and everyone else you can think of to share your post.
• Craig's List is a must as your pet may leave your town and go over to a surrounding community. CL has a broad readership
• Twitter - start tweeting, you just never know who will see your tweet and your pooch !

Granite State Dog Recovery - contact this non profit organization that is dedicated to finding lost pets. They have teams all around New England to help you find your family furry friend. The success rate from this organization is unbelievable and it is must for you to contact them ASAP

• Call 1-800-639-LOST
• Lost@granitestatedogrecovery.com
• http://www.facebook.com/granitestatedogrecovery

WHAT YOU NEED TO RECLAIM YOUR PET

• Current government issued identification with your name and address (driver’s license; state ID, etc)
• Current vaccination records
• Pictures of your pet
• Proof of ownership (vaccination records, adoption
  papers, bill of sale, dog license)
• There are some fees involved in reclaiming your pet.

HOW TO KEEP YOUR PET SAFE

• DO NOT leave your animal unattended for long periods of time. Many pets become lost because they have been outside in a yard or enclosure and they escape from an unnoticed opening. Sometimes they are just bored and want to roam.
• Always be sure your animal is wearing an appropriate collar with an identification tag and your contact information. If you change your telephone number, make sure you get a new tag for your pet with the updated information and put your email address on it too!
• License your dog. North Andover only charges $20.00 for a license. Dogs wearing dog licenses are much more likely to be reunited with their families
• Microchip your pet. Most veterinarians and shelters/rescue leagues can provide this service at a low cost.
• Secure all outside enclosures where you keep your pet
• NEVER walk your dog off leash

http://northandover.patch.com/blog_posts/help-my-dog-is-lost-what-do-i-do#photo-10874793

It's Dog-Gone HOT !

Wow ! The next couple of days may be record breaking HOT !! Summer vacation has started and everyone is enjoying this beautiful weather. We are planning our trips to the beach, hanging out at the pool and cooking on the grill. With all this excitement are you remembering your pets? As hot as you are, their body temperatures are higher and they can become dehydrated much quicker.
Like humans, dog and cats bodies are made up of 80% water. Having enough water in an animal's system determines the proper flow of nutrients needed for the functionality of the organs and helps prevent illness.
But more simply put…it’ HOT and your pet needs water. He is thirsty!
As a rule of thumb, a dog needs approximately twice as much as its body weight to remain hydrated. For example: a dog that weighs 15lbs should have at least 30 oz of water a day.

• Keep the water bowl full all day.
  This time of year keep multiple bowls in easy access places to where your
  pet may be.
• Keep the water bowl clean I have seen so many of these water fountains for pets and owners fill them up thinking they don’t need to change the water until it is empty. Hum… probably not one of my favorite pet nventions, people tend to forget it is “still” water in that container at room
  temperature. It needs to be changed and the container needs to be cleaned. If not, bacteria and mold will grow inside. Once ingested by the pet, mold can lead to severe internal sickness.
• Ice Cubes Dogs love chewing on ices cubes, it helps get fluids in their bodies and it is a fun interactive toy
  too!
• Dog pools, sprinkler or hose Take the kiddy pool, fill it up with water and let your dog jump around in it. Oh my god, have you ever seen a dog in a kiddy pool? They bounce all around and have a blast too. If you don’t have a pool, a sprinkler or a garden hose can be just as effective.
• AC or Fan Yup…spoil your pet a bit…my Lani, she loves her AC and ceiling fan as she lounges on her couch.

If you have concerns that your dog or cat may be dehydrated do the “scruff” test

To determine the extent of your pet's dehydration a dehydrated dog or cat will lose skin elasticity. Pull lightly on the skin at the scruff of the neck and note how quickly it returns to its normal location. The longer it takes, the more dehydrated your dog or cat is.
And as always, with any health questions or concerns please call your veterinarian immediately.
Now that the sunny warm weather is here , fill the ice cube trays, buy some frosty paws treats and enjoy a happy and hydrated summer with your pets.

Stay cool too !

http://northandover.patch.com/blog_posts/its-dog-gone-hot#photo-10365091

Moving With Family Pets

 

In the past couple of months it seems like the real estate market has experienced a leap in sales of homes. Housing is moving very quickly. In fact, just in this last week I had two clients sell their homes in a matter of days. Literally days.....

With a quick sale comes a closing right around the corner and then the move. In the ciaos of finding a new home, packing, and moving we must not forget our pets. Moving is a major change and causes a lot of stress and sometimes confusion and uncertainties.

As you are digging through the closets, packing boxes and wrapping your dishes, your pet's see and sense all these changes. They know something is changing, they know things will be different but unfortunately they are not quite certain of what exactly is going on.

1. Before your move - You must be committed to your current routine with your pet. If you feed at 5PM, continue to feed at 5PM, if you take your dog for a walk two times a day, stay committed to those two walks a day and if your kitty litter box is in a certain spot, keep that box in that area. This will help create a level of consistency with your pet. Your dog or cat has probably already started building up some anxiety and nervousness seeing everything changing but this will help them feel you are still dedicated to them and that they are not being left behind.

2. New location - Before you move in, say you are relocating locally bring your dog or cat over to your new property and let them roam around. Let them smell, poke, peek and see everyroom. Bring them out in the yard and let them find their "area" and make a mark or two. Why? Well once you do move in they will be a little more familiar with your new home and will be able to find their scent. This will create a level of confidences in your pet and hopefully help with acceptance of this being their new home.

3. Traveling to your new home - If you are not relocating local and do need to fly or drive a long distances please consult with your Vet first on your options. Make sure your pet is in proper health to be traveling for a long extended period of time. In some cases, a Vet will prescribe medication to help with anxiety.

4. Flying - Do your research and find out how each airline treats your pet. When there is a layover will the airline bring your pet out from under for a piddle break and a quick stretch or do they just leave him in the crate. Do they provide water breaks? Call and ask every and any question you can think of. Some airlines will allow you to bring your pet in the cabin with you depending on size and breed. Yes, your pet will have to go through security screening too, once again call the airline directly and ask about their policy.

5. Arrival to your new home - Once again, routine routine routine. Immediately start back into the routine you had in your previous home. If you feed at 5PM, continue to feed at 5PM, if you take your dog for a walk two times a day, stay committed to those two walks a day and if your kitty litter box is in a certain spot, keep that box in a similar area. This will show your pet that just because the house may look a little different, everyday life will remain the same.

6. Once settled in- As you are getting to know your neighbors, introduce your pets to your neighbors pets. Dogs that came from a social environment of a play dates, doggy daycare and playing with the neighbor's dog will need to get back into that routine. If you utilized a dog walking service previously, hire one in your new location and keep that routine going. If you have a cat, let him start finding his way. If he is an outdoor cat he will be excited to start exploring. Indoor cats will be the easiest to transition as most of your existing furniture came with you and they will continue with their ways as usual.

Most importantly, be POSITIVE and very PATIENT with your pet. They will experience moving blues but if you remind them how special they are and that they are doing great, they will feel that safeness and trust from you and will begin to adjust to their new home much quicker.

http://northandover.patch.com/blog_posts/moving-with-family-pets

Mr. Easter Bunny: Is it Time for a Pet Rabbit?

How cute, absolutely adorable, snuggly and sweet -- words commonly used to describe a bunny.
Well, they are cute, absolutely adorable, snuggly and sweet, but does that mean you should rush out and buy or adopt one for Easter Sunday?

Ohhhh don't let emotion take over on this one! Your toddler could be begging you for one for Easter, your pre-teen could be telling you she is ready for the "pet responsibility" but the BIG question one must ask, "Is your family ready for a rabbit?"

I have had bunnies for over 25 years. I have had indoor and outdoor rabbits. Nacey, my outdoor rabbit (except in the winter). Ashley, a baby bunny left on the front steps of a pet store near my apartment when I lived in Providence. And lastly, Jake.. aka " Jakey." Jakey came from a 4H club in Boxford. Apparently, Mom and Dad were left a little too long in the cage together and an unexpected litter came along. Jakey was my boy ..my devilish little boy ..yes I admit it, he was also a bit of a Momma's boy too! He had me good.

But unlike cats, rabbits are very different. This seems to be the biggest misconception. People think if they have had cats they can care for a pet bunny. No, they are two very different animals and their lifestyles have different requirements.

Consider these 10 facts before you bring a rabbit into your home:

1.Rabbits come in various sizes, breeds. Do your research some rabbits are tiny, some are large, some have long hair and some have short hair. They also all have their own personalities. As with other pets, a rabbit's personality isgreatly influenced by how they are socialized with humans and other animals.
2. Rabbits require a time commitment: Quite the little attention getters..they love to be social. You will need to spend quality one on one time with your rabbit. Let's not forget that cage, it will need to be cleaned daily. Rabbits can be litter box trained too.
3. Rabbit Food: Rabbits will need hay and fresh pellets. They should also be fed fresh vegetables daily. Check with your local pet food store before you bring home your rabbit to make sure they carry rabbit pellets.
4. They can be pricy little critters: There will be regular annual costs as well as food, bedding, veterinary care, grooming supplies, flea prevention items and an unending supply of chew toys.

You will need to have:

• Cage/crate
• Nest Box - where the rabbit can sleep
• Bedding - chips, paper, straw or hay
• Exercise pen or an outdoor play area and you will need rabbit-proof your house
• Litter box
• Cleaning supplies such as litter scooper, disinfectant, Vinegar and water works great to clean a litter box
• Food dishes and water bottles - I'm personally not a fan of water bottles and always used water bowls for my rabbits.
• Travel carrier (for traveling and trips to the
  veterinarian)
• Chew toys - tons ..of chew toys because it helps file their never ending growing teeth
• Flea preventives - if an outdoor rabbit. Speak to your vet about which product to use
• Food- Fresh pellets, hay, fresh vegetables

5. Rabbits can be difficult to handle: Some rabbits can be a little stubborn and may not like to be picked up. If a rabbit isn't handled correctly, he may become afraid and kick, bite, or scratch. This is one of the reasons rabbits may not be the best pet for small children, who like to hug or cuddle their pet. However if socialized correctly he may become the biggest lap rabbit and snuggle bug! Mine were always by my side and cuddled up with me.
6. Rabbits can be destructive: Rabbits are natural chewers, and they do not know the difference between chewing on appropriate items or inappropriate ones such as electrical cords, furniture, and books. You will need to "rabbit-proof" whatever areas in your house your rabbit is allowed access to. Chewing toys are very important and can help to burn off some of that rabbit energy.
7. House rabbits are not a good "first pet" for children: Because rabbits are guarded by nature they take a little longer to warm up to some people. A rabbit will need to be cared for by an adult who can provide the proper diet and living conditions. Rabbits can make excellent pets for older or quieter children, singles or seniors.
8. House rabbits require exercise: They should not be kept isolated in a small cage, but be allowed to move about in an exercise run, playpen or rabbit-proofed room.
9. Spay or neuter: Indoor rabbits will need to be spayed or neutered. This will decrease the risk of territorial marking and increase chances of litter training success.
10. Rabbits have certain health concerns you should be aware of: Rabbits will need regular veterinary health exams. Overgrown teeth, digestive problems, and respiratory diseases can be common, more so in rabbits who are not housed correctly or are given an inappropriate diet. When choosing a vet please ask in advance if they handle exotics. Rabbits need to be seen by a vet that has experience with exotic animals.

**Most importantly please decide if a rabbit is the right fit for your home. Animal shelters receive an over whelming amount of rabbits and bunnies after Easter because families didn't realize how much work these cuties really required.

If you are ready to bring a bunny into your home, enjoy all the unconditional love a rabbit will bring to you and your family. PLEASE consider ADOPTION.

Tracey is the owner of Wiggles & Jiggles Pet Care and may be contacted at 978-697-6571 on facebook at  www.facebook.com/wigglesjigglespetcare

http://northandover.patch.com/blog_posts/mr-easter-bunny-is-it-time-for-a-pet-rabbit#photo-9470302