Feature

Summer'09 - eTails & Paws

Feature

Summer is a time

for friends, the beach,
traveling, and being outside

Summer can be filled with vacations to faraway places or days at the local seaside. It is important that we think about our pets during these times. I've done both with my pets: travelled without them and also, when feasible, taken them with me (my preference!)

The one important thing all pet owners have learned, whether bringing your pets with you or giving them into the care of others, is pre-planning. Do your research, and make your arrangements, far in advance-- don't leave it until the last minute.

Traveling with your pets

Taking our pets with us when we travel on vacation or just a weekend away still takes preparation -- sometimes more than our own preparations. If traveling overseas, you will need to look into any restrictions on pets entering different countries -- especially quanantines and required vaccinations. Even if you are traveling locally, you must check the rules at pet-friendly hotels in which you may be staying, some may require your pet be caged when you are not in the room.

Boarding your pets

When researching boarding facillities, one of the best ways to find a qualified boarding facility is to get personal references from family or friends -- and even from your veterinarian. Always visit the facility yourself so you can feel comfortable about the space, hygiene, caretakers, and that they will ensure your pet receives the care you want for them.

Pet Sitters

Again, personal references from family or friends are best, but always make sure the pet sitter is licensed and bonded -- they will be entering your home!, provides references (and check them!), and have them meet with you and your pet prior to leaving.

If your pet has special needs, make sure you are upfront and explicit with the boarding facility or pet sitter. Leave detailed written instructions to make sure there are no misunderstandings, and review everything before you leave your pet.

Beach days, dog runs, new friends...

With all the fun activities of summer, your pet may be introduced to new places, people, animals, and stimuli. Make sure your pets can handle all the excitement; small doses are best until you and your pet are sure interactions can be done safely and calmly. A well behaved and socialized pet is a happy pet -- and a most welcome pet in all environments!

How does TTouch help...?

-- prepares your pet for travel, boarding or a new "sitter"

-- reduces nausea, car/motion sickness

-- reduces stress, anxieties, fears

-- helps your pet deal with new people, environments, etc.

-- socialization and good behavior

Read more about TTouch...

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OUR PETS DON'T NEED COSMETIC SURGERY!
The Humane Society of the United States Veterinary Association has published its position on Cosmetic and Convenience Surgeries for Companion Animals. These surgeries include: Cat Declawing; Dewclaw removal; Ear Cropping; Tail Docking; Devocalization; Bird Pinioning.

All of these surgeries involve the painful removal or cutting of some section of an animal's body which is a necessary part of their lives, and can cause potential issues for the animals. These procedures may also require multiple surgeries, and may cause complications in many instances. Animals could suffer lifelong pain and discomfort.

For instance, dogs use their tails for balance and communication. Tail docking may affect this; also, since tail docking is done during a puppy's formative growth time, the trauma can remain with them for life. Many declawed cats develop behavior issues, litter box issues, and bite -- all caused by the painful amputation of the toe's skin, tendons, bone and nerves.

Think before proceeding with any of these surgeries -- your faithful pet deserves a happy, healthy and pain free life.
Read the full details at HSUS.

June is... ADOPT A SHELTER PET Month

While we always promote adopting a shelter or rescued pet, June is especially centered around shelter cats – it’s ADOPT A SHELTER CAT MONTH! Read about cat care tips, look on Petfinder.com to find your perfect feline companion, or visit your local shelter or rescue organization. Looking for a specific breed of cat? Check the breed rescue groups before you go out and buy!

Want some offbeat, fun holidays to celebrate this summer? Here's a few:

June is:

Adopt A Shelter Cat Month

Turkey Lovers Month

National Smile Month

Great Outdoors Monthh

June 1 National Go-Barefoot Day

June 3 National Running Day

June 5 World Environment Day

June 6 National Trails Day

June 14 Flag Day

June 17 Stewarts Root Beer Day

June 19 Garfield the Cat Day

June 21 First Day of Summer

Father’s Day; Baby Boomer’s Recognition Day; World Humanist Day

June 23 Let It Go Day

June 24 Celebration of the Senses

June 16 Take your dog to work day

July is:

Air-conditioning Appreciation Month

Blueberries Month

Cell Phone Courtesy Month

Dog Days

Family Reunion Month

Herbal/Prescription Awareness Month

Lyme Disease Awareness Month

National “Doghouse Repairs” Month

National Ice Cream Month

National Recreation and Parks Month

Social Wellness Month

July 2 I Forgot Day

July 3 Stay out of the Sun Day

July 4 Independence Day; Independence from Meat Day

July 7 Chocolate Day; Father-Daughter Take a Walk Day;

Tell The Truth Day

July 10 Don’t Step on a Bee Day

July 16 Get to Know Your Customers Day

July 20 National Hug Your Kid Day; National Lollypop Day

July 23 Gorgeous Grandma Day

July 24 Cousins Day

July 25 Cow Appreciation Day

July 26 Parents’ Day

July 28 National Milk Chocolate Day

August is:

American Adventures Month

Children’s Eye Health & Safety Month

National Immunization Awareness Month

Simplify Your Life Week (1-7)

Elvis Week (8-16)

Assistance Dog Week (9-15)

Be Kind to Humankind Week (25-31)

August 1 Respect for Parents; Sweet Corn Day; National Mustard Day;

World Wide Web Day

August 2 Friendship Day

August 4 National Chocolate Chip Day

August 8 Happiness Happens Day; National Garage Sale Day

August 9 Assistance Dog Day

August 15 Best Friends Day; National Relaxation Day;

National Homeless Animals Day

August 18 Cupcake Day

August 21 Senior Citizen’s Day; World Daffodil Day

August 26 National Dog Day

August 29 More Herbs, Less Salt Day

August 30 National Holistic Pet Day