By: Dr. Jack Stephens
President and Founder
Pets Best Insurance
Having been a veterinarian and the founder of pet insurance in the US, I generally advise against giving a pet as a gift. Owning a pet is a commitment of up to 17 years for dogs and 20 for cats, and often the recipients decide they’re not up for the job. In fact, many shelters report a surge of abandoned Christmas pets as early as January each year.
There are a host of factors to consider before purchasing a pet. Like: housing, feeding, schedules, training, exercise and veterinary care, just to name a few. Because too many pets become abandoned or are given up to shelters when people are not prepared to be pet owners, these issues should be addressed before getting a pet—not after.
One exception of when it’s ok to give a pet as a gift is when the whole family is involved in the decision. When planning for a pet, it’s important to consider a few things:
• First, determine if a pet is even right for your household.
• Second, determine what kind of pet is appropriate for your situation. Research your proposed pets’ needs and match that with your expectations before you purchase or adopt. It’s also a good idea to research cat and dog insurance so you can be financially prepared should your pet have any illnesses or accidents.
• Third, after the responsibilities for pet ownership have been extensively researched, determine who will be primarily responsible for the pets’ needs.
Another exception can be a “trial run,” to determine whether the pet is a good fit. For example, my wife and I often match a pet to a person and their needs. We provide the pet “on a trial basis” for the person to determine if they want the responsibilities of a pet and more importantly to prove to themselves our assertion that pets are good for our health and well being. We place the pet with the understanding that they must give the pet back to us if the situation does not work. This “trial run” approach is especially important for placing a companion pet with a senior citizen when there are concerns about their own health and ability to care for the pet.
An older neighbor of ours was having trouble with depression after the loss of her spouse. We provided her with one of our own pets to demonstrate the companionship value, with the expectation that we would find her a nice lap dog if her trial run went well. That was six years ago and Blue Baby is still living with her!
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On another occasion we gave a very special Daschund (whose back legs were paralyzed from a slipped disc) to an acquaintance whose husband was in a wheelchair. Seeing how well that dog adapted to his circumstances was inspirational for that man. But alas, after five years they could no longer keep Schotzie and we took him back into our household. He is now 11-years-old and has been in his cart or “doggy wheelchair” for 9 years since we adopted him. He is a happy little guy and an inspiration as a therapy pet in both hospitals and at senior care facilities.
The ultimate point being, that giving a pet to someone does not diminish your responsibility. You must ensure that the pet is going to a good home, that they understand how to care for the pet in all aspects, and finally that if circumstances do not permit them to keep the pet, you take responsibility and either find a new good home, or welcome the pet as a member of your own family.
For more information about pet health or pet insurance, vist Pets Best Insurance.
By: Judy Luther
Certified Professional Dog Trainer
For Pets Best Insurance
Recently I received a call from a woman who had a very active Border Collie and a new baby. As I talked with this new mom it was quite obvious she was overwhelmed and exhausted adjusting to life with a new baby and a Border Collie that was not getting the attention and exercise he needed. He was resorting to barking and other destructive pet health behaviors. The woman loved her dog but could not tolerate his deteriorating behavior and had called a rescue group to come and take him away. The rescue recommended she call me to see if I could help before surrendering her dog.
Border Collies are herding dogs bred to work long hours herding livestock. They are also extremely smart. A bored Border Collie is not the easiest breed to live with, they often need a job to do to keep themselves occupied. Because these dogs are highly active, they are one of the many breeds that benefit from pet insurance.
As a trainer, when discussing concerns with dog owners, I immediately start developing a training plan to solve the dogs’ issues. This was an easy one. Generally I would suggest the family involve their dog in a dog sport like agility, frisbee or herding, but this new mom and dad were too busy with the new baby to take their dog to training sessions and practices. So I had to develop a plan to help them keep their dog busy and active, without taking time away from their new baby.
So here is my suggestion– laundry. Yes, I suggested we teach the dog to help his owner with the laundry. This incorporated several skills which would be useful in other areas. First, we taught the dog to pick up items and hold them in his mouth, then we taught him to carry items, next we taught him to drop items. To put it all together we put a laundry basket on the floor, asked the dog to pick up and hold a towel, then carrying the towel followed us to the laundry basket where we asked him to drop the towel. We then returned to the pile of towels and repeated this again. After a short time the dog was playing this very fun laundry game. Next we moved into the laundry room and asked the dog to get a towel out of the laundry basket and bring it to us which we then deposited into the washing machine. Ta Da! A dog that could help with the laundry. I have some clients who even ask their dogs to take the laundry out of the dryer.
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A good friend of mine who is a groomer trained her Australian Shepherd to take the towels out of the crates at the end of the day and take them to the laundry basket.
Having your dog help you with the laundry uses many useful behaviors. Take it, drop it, carry it, hold it can be useful in training other behaviors. When I drop something, I will ask my dog to pick it up and hand that item to me.
So what else can you teach your dog to do around the house? They can bring you the phone when it rings, put their toys in a toy basket, close doors, cabinets and drawers with the push of their nose, go out and get the newspaper, bring you the television remote, turn the lights on and off. We even taught one dog to gather small sticks in the yard and take them to an area by the firewood pile to use as kindling. The possibilities are only limited by your imagination and the dogs’ ability.
Oh, and the above mentioned Border Collie, is now happily helping his family with the daily chores, and has given up his barking and destructive behaviors!
For more information about pet health, behavior and pet insurance, visit Pets Best Insurance.
By: Dr. Fiona Caldwell
Vet at Idaho Veterinary Hospital
For Pets Best Insurance
As pet lovers and pet insurance enthusiasts, you’re probably planning to get your kitty or dog a little something for the holidays. But did you know that over 50% of pet owners in the US will buy presents for their pets this year? The average family allots just under $50 to purchase toys, treats and food, bedding, clothing, grooming products and leashes and harnesses for their pets during the holidays. With Black Friday just around the corner, I’ve compiled a list of the top ten most awesome and unique pet products that for the dog or cat that has it all!
1. Pet Observation Porthole
This contraption is a plastic, submarine-like porthole that when attached to a wooden fence, allows pets to see the action on the other side. It helps keep your pet safe, but lets them sneak a peek when their curiosity gets the best of them!
2. DJ Cat Scratch Turntables
This unique product looks like a DJ’s set of turn tables, but is actually a scratching post! DJ kitty will love to and scratch this funny cat gift.
3. Tug-Preventing Dog Trainer
This ingenious gadget attaches to the leash and emits a non-painful ultrasonic tone which is irritating to dogs, ultimately training them to not tug on the leash.
4. Float-a-pet
This is a float collar for pets that live with swimming pool access or that like the lake. When the pet is submerged, this floating collar will keep their heads above water. Much like a doggie life jacket, this is a great gift for any pup who loves the water.
5. Heated pet bed
For the pampered pet, or the pet that spends time outside, this is a nice way to keep them comfortable and cozy in the winter months.
6. Doggy Treadmill
Yes, this really exists! For the owner who is unable to walk his four-legged friend, or for a pet that requires physical therapy, an indoor doggy treadmill is a great way to provide controlled exercise.
7. Edible Christmas cards (Bone Idle Cards)!
Just for dogs, this is a fun and tasty way of saying ‘I love you’ this Christmas to your best friend. He probably won’t read the card, but he’ll sure enjoy munching on it.
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8. Cat Genie Cat Box
Sick of cleaning the litter box every day? This gadget frees up some the responsibility and can wash, sanitize and dry the box without you having to do anything. This is a great gift for the busy cat owner!
9. RoamEO Pup Collar
This GPS tracking device connects to your dog’s collar and can track where they are. Not only is this great for the escape artist, but it would also make a good gift for dogs that go camping or hunting with their owner.
10. And number ten! The ultimate gift that keeps giving! Drumroll please… dog and cat insurance! Giving your pet the gift of pet health insurance will allow them the necessary veterinary care, should they fall ill or have an accident. Pets Best Insurance offers great coverage for your dog or cat. For more information about the best pet insurance, visit Pets Best Insurance.
By: Liam Crowe
Bark Busters CEO
Guest Blogger
For Pets Best Insurance
For many families, December holidays bring a change in routine and lots of extra commotion to the household— which can be stressful for your dog. Although you may be versed in pet health and behavior, with all the extra commotion, your pet many begin to exhibit unusual or undesirable behaviors like stealing food, jumping up on people, or growling or snapping at visitors.
Although it’s a good idea to have pet insurance in case of the accidental illness or injury during the holidays, the following tips can help keep your dog calm, happy and safe in your home this season.
Front door behaviors
Whether your dog perceives it as exciting or alarming, a knock on the door can be a stimulating and potentially dangerous event. It is natural for him to want to find out who the visitors are and to determine if they are friendly or not. However, a dog that behaves in an out-of-control manner at the sound of the doorbell is not only annoying, but unsafe. Even if you have dog insurance, your pet could harm himself by escaping out the door or getting underfoot and becoming a trip hazard. Your dog could also hurt others by knocking elderly visitors or children down, or even becoming aggressive to the visitors.
• To help your dog be calmer when guests are in your home, exercise him prior to their arrival. After 30 minutes of walking or playing, your dog will be more relaxed.
• Don’t allow your dog to greet unfamiliar guests; this just causes more stress for everyone, your dog included.
• Teach your dog to sit and stay; when the doorbell rings, put him in a sit-stay and do not open the door until he calms down. Practice this beforehand using friends and family members.
• Consider putting your dog on a leash as visitors arrive so that you can keep better control of him.
• If your dog gets too excited with arriving visitors, place him in his crate out of the way or in a quiet room, and then let him join the party later.
• Make sure your dog wears his ID tags at all times and consider having him microchipped in case he should slip out the door with all the people coming in and out of your home. Pet insurance provides extra peace of mind in case of an accident or injury to your dog in this situation.
Children visitors
Dogs that are not used to being around children and the rise in energy level they bring may be uncomfortable or unsure when kids come to visit. If you don’t know how your dog will react to children, you should be sure to monitor and control all interactions between visiting kids and your dog.
• Always supervise children and dogs. Most dog bites to children occur when dogs and kids are left alone together.
• Be sure that children of all ages know that they need to treat dogs with respect and gentleness.
• Never allow a child to feed your dog by hand—this teaches the dog it is OK to take any food from a child.
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Elderly dogs
Your older canine family members may not enjoy the extra hustle and bustle of the holidays. As much as possible, try to keep your senior dogs comfortable when their routines are disrupted.
• If your older dog seems to get cranky around guests, take him to a quiet place where he won’t be bothered and can feel safe and secure.
• Remind kids to be especially respectful of your elderly dog.
Be proactive in thinking about how new and exciting holiday activities will affect your dog. Be sure to research pet insurance before the holidays and manage your pet’s interactions with all visitors to ensure a fun and safe holiday season for your dog, family members and guests.
For more information about dog training, vist Bark Busters. For additional information about pet health insurance visit Pets Best Insurance.
By: Dr. Jane Matheys
Associate Veterinarian
The Cat Doctor Veterinary Hospital
For Pets Best Insurance
I live in a dry Western state, and when I moved here a year ago, my colleagues told me that fleas are not much of a problem in our area because of the low humidity. Imagine my surprise, then, with the cases of heavy flea infestations that I’ve seen over the past month. Given the right conditions, fleas can be plentiful! Since some pet insurance companies will even help to cover a potion of flea prevention with their wellness plans, it’s a good idea to inquire.
Fleas are not just a summer issue, like you might think. While fleas won’t survive a good frost outside, they can be a year-round problem inside your home. The most common flea in the US which feeds off both cats and dogs is called Ctenocephalides felis, or the cat flea. The primary determining factor of populations is humidity, so fleas can be worse from one area to another and can vary seasonally from year to year. We had a wet spring this year, so that probably accounts for the more numerous infestations that I’ve been seeing.
While many pets live with fleas and show minimal signs of infestation, some develop a pet health allergy to flea saliva which causes them to scratch excessively or develop other skin disease. The painful itching can be so bad that the poor animal may scratch herself raw in seeking relief. The cat flea can carry the larval stage of the tapeworm Dipylidium caninum. Pets can then be infested with these worms by eating fleas during grooming. Fleas have the potential to transmit other infectious agents causing diseases such as Haemobartonellosis which is a serious form of anemia. Adult fleas feed on animal blood. In young kittens and puppies this can cause weakness, anemia and death. Cat fleas can also cause itchy bites on sensitive humans, typically around the ankles.
While you may see actual fleas on your pet, the most common sign is flea dirt, which is actually flea feces. It is black pepper-like granules in the coat, especially on the rump and groin area. It is found by either parting the fur or using a special “flea comb” with narrow spaced teeth. To determine if what you find is flea dirt, which has digested blood in it, place the granules on a moistened white paper towel. Rub them gently; if the paper towel turns red-brown, your pett has flea dirt.
Within 2 days of finding a home on your pet, the mature female flea starts to lay eggs at a rate of about 50 a day. The eggs fall off the cat’s coat together with flea dirt. This flea dirt provides food for the hatching flea larvae. Eggs and larvae can be found anywhere your cat or dog has been, but are particularly concentrated in bedding or in areas where your pet spends a lot of time. The larvae dislike light and move deep into the carpet or soft furnishings. The larvae develop into pupae, each encased in a sticky cocoon. An adult flea develops within the cocoon and awaits a sign that there is an animal or person close by. It does this by detecting pressure, noise, heat, carbon dioxide or vibrations. The new flea can emerge and attach to the host within seconds. Fleas can lie waiting in the cocoon for up to 2 years. However, in the right conditions, the whole life cycle can be completed in 15 days. Because prevention is always best, it’s important to purchase a wellness plan from a pet health insurance company that will reimburse a portion for preventing fleas.
Once there is a flea infestation it is important to treat all the animals and the house. There is a vast and confusing array of flea treatments on the market, and it is important to follow your veterinarian’s advice for the best and safest results. Never use products labeled for dogs on cats, as they can be toxic. In particular, the insecticide permethrin can be safely used as a flea treatment for dogs, but is highly toxic to cats and may even cause death. Always consult your veterinarian first!
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The older generation of flea control products (flea powders, flea collars and dips) are now completely obsolete. The latest treatments are the topical “spot-ons” which are much safer for both pets and humans. These are applied to the skin, usually at the back of the neck, and disperse through the skin’s oils. Most topicals are labeled for once-a-month application. I like Advantage, Frontline and Revolution. If a pet is heavily loaded with flea dirt, I recommend a cleansing bath first, followed by one of these topical products after the animal is dried completely.
Treatment of the house is also necessary. Vacuum your entire house paying particular attention to corners, dark crevices, under furniture, under beds, pet beds, rugs and especially around baseboards. Dispose of vacuum bags/contents to prevent collected immature flea stages from continuing to develop in the house. Wash all bedding thoroughly.
Treat your house to eradicate fleas at all stages of their development. Choose an insecticide that contains an Insect Growth Regulator (IGR). Spray all carpets, rugs, floors, soft furnishings and places your pet sleeps with an aerosol, flea bomb or fogger that kills flea eggs, larvae and emerging adult fleas. Make sure that you spray into every nook and cranny and pay special attention around baseboards and under rugs and furniture, including under beds. Aerosols are best for getting these hidden spots. Read and follow directions carefully when using insecticides.
While the fleas are in the pupae stage (in their cocoons) they are not affected by insecticides. The cocoons are watertight and protect the developing flea. This is why you may see a new flea infestation about 2 weeks later as new fleas emerge from these cocoons. If this happens you may need to treat your house again.
Continue to treat your pet monthly with one of the topical products for several months minimum to be sure the flea infestation is resolved. Periodically flea comb your pet to monitor the progress.
Once adult and immature fleas have been completely eradicated from the household, reassess whether further treatment is necessary. If your pett goes outside, consider using one of the topical products in a preventative manner.
For more information about dog or cat insurance visit Pets Best Insurance.
