Why Should You Recommend One Pet Insurance company?

Pets Best — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

With so many pet insurance companies out there today, it's a wonder that anyone knows who to trust. In your role within a veterinary hospital, clients trust you when it comes to mending, treating and taking care of their pets.

Likewise, veterinary professionals and clients choose Pets Best because we're trusted to pay eligible claims at 80% of the bill after the deductible. We're not just in the business of selling insurance policies, we want to help save pets' lives by protecting them from economically-necessitated euthanasia.

At your hospital, you may have decided to promote Pets Best policies exclusively. Or you may have determined to promote more than one pet insurance company, giving your clients a variety of options.

I'd like to share an actual story from a Pets Best employee who asked her veterinarian about pet insurance and the events that lead her to her final decision.

"A few years ago, before I started working for Pets Best, I asked my vet about pet insurance. She would not recommend one company over another but instead sent me home with three brochures to do my own research. Looking at all of the information I found myself frustrated and confused. In the end, I gave up and did not purchase ANY pet insurance. I figured, why bother when my vet obviously did not feel pet insurance was important enough to do her own research? As a result, my pet went unprotected. If something were to happen, I would not have been able to afford the cost of care."

Often, simply dropping a variety of options in a client's lap can do them a disservice. Helping them cut through the clutter of information and communicating how important pet insurance can be, especially in today's uncertain economic times, is a much more effective way of promoting pet insurance, which is as helpful and beneficial to your practice as it is to the people and pets you care for.

As a reminder:

We pay 80% of the veterinary bill, after the deductible
Simple, fast claim turn around (5 days or less processing time)
Choose any vet, anywhere
No annual limits or age restrictions
Best benefits, best value, let us prove it!

We'd love to offer you and your staff a lunch-n-learn and tell you why Pets Best is the pet insurance provider of choice. Let us show you how you can trust us to be there when you and your clients need us most.

To schedule a live webinar at your convenience (we'll buy you lunch!) call 877-738-7237 x4 or email vetservices@petsbest.com. We'd love to hear from you!

Give a Pet the Gift of Protection

Pets Best — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Looking for the perfect way to show loved ones how much you care? If their pets are unprotected from illness and injury, an annual Pets Best insurance plan could be the best gift you've ever given. You'll pay the annual premium (with a 7% discount for paying annually) and they'll enjoy the peace of mind, knowing they won't have to worry about how to afford their pet's health care.

To begin, click here for a free quote; you'll need to know the pet's birthday, their breed and their general health history, as well as the zip code of the loved one who you are buying the policy for. This should give you a good estimate of what the gift policy will cost. Call our Customer Service Team at 1-877-738-7237 (ext. 1) and they can answer your questions and send you a gift certificate you can present to the gift recipient. Your recipient will need to go online or call to set up their policy, and we'll let you know what your total payment will be.

The gift policy will be registered under the recipient's name and address, not yours. The gift recipient will receive any updates regarding their policy. Near the end of their policy year, they will have the option to renew their own policy so that they can continue with a lifetime of protection for their beloved pets.Like this article? Share it online!

Bookmark & Share

What's this?AddThis

Warning: Top 10 Winter Dangers for Pets

Pets Best — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

With winter well underway, you've probably spent time and energy to winterize your house and your car. But have you thought about winterizing for your pet?

Severely cold weather brings threats to pet health and safety, and many of these might shock or surprise you. Here we have listed some of the most serious threats and what you can do to avoid them:

Killer Wind Chill - Dogs who spend plenty of time outdoors, even if protected by a doghouse, run a risk of death due to the cold. The doorway of your dog's house should be faced away from the wind or covered. Also, the house should be well-insulated and just big enough for them to stand up, turn around, and lie down inside comfortably. A doghouse that is too big won't contain your dog's body heat and stay warm. For multiple dogs, consider a house large enough to let them cuddle together.

Undernourishment/Dehydration - In cold weather, keeping warm requires a lot of energy. If your dog or cat spends a lot of time outside, you'll want to increase their supply of food, particularly protein, to keep them-and their fur-in tip-top shape. Also, outdoor pets may become dangerously dehydrated if their water freezes solid. A good heated water bowl prevents this problem.

Severely Dry Skin - The air in most houses becomes dry during the colder months, depleting moisture from dog skin and fur. A dog whose skin is dry and itchy may habitually scratch or bite at their skin, possibly creating sores or "hotspots." To improve skin, coat and circulation, brush your dog vigorously and regularly. Dogs with dry skin may benefit from fatty acid supplements during the winter. Also, pet shampoos formulated with oatmeal can help soothe dry skin.

Catastrophic Car Trouble - Outdoor cats are often drawn to the warmth of a parked car's engine, and may cuddle up beneath the car or inside the engine compartment. They run the risk of serious injury or death if the engine is started, so knock on the hood of your car or honk the horn to warn cats away before you turn the key.

Chemical Poisoning - Antifreeze that leaks or spills from your car's radiator can kill dogs and cats alike. They are attracted by the sweet taste of the antifreeze, which almost always results in death of the pet unless treated immediately. Keep antifreeze containers sealed tight and out of reach, and clean spills immediately. Consider using antifreeze that is free of ethylene glycol, the component that makes antifreeze both sweet and toxic.

Chemicals and salts that are used to melt winter ice on sidewalks and roads can also be poisonous. Dogs and cats can pick them up on the pads of their feet during a walk; afterward, licking their paws could cause stomach upset or illness. It's best to rinse the pet's paws with lukewarm water as soon as possible after each outing.

Tongue Injuries - In freezing temperatures, metal bowls and buckets pose a threat. Pets' tongues can stick to the cold metal, and animals can injure themselves trying to pull away. For safety's sake, switch to plastic or ceramic-type pet bowls when it's below 32 degrees outside.

Frostbite Injuries - Even short-term exposure to temperatures below zero can lead to frostbite of the feet, nose or ears. In these areas the skin might appear red, gray or whitish and could peel. Prevent frostbite by removing ice and snow from paws and fur right away. Balls of ice can form in the areas between the toes and toe-pads; you may want to clip the fur between toe pads to reduce the amount of snow that collects there.

Hypothermia Alert - Dogs and cats who lack thick fur coats and have low body fat reserves are generally not suited for cold temperatures. Pets who are old or who have been ill can also be sensitive to winter weather. When it's frigid outside, it is especially important to keep them indoors or to provide a warm shelter outside the house. Consider dressing Fido in a warm dog sweater or jacket whenever you go for a walk.

Fire Danger - Portable space heaters may be handy, but in homes with active dogs and cats they could be deadly. Every year, numerous house fires start with space heaters knocked over by pets. If you choose to use one, make sure it is the type that will shut off automatically when it is tipped.

Lost Dogs - More dogs are reported lost during the winter than any other season, as canines often lose track of scent trails in the snow and can become disoriented. Dogs may also panic during snow storms and run away. When outside a fenced yard, dogs should always be kept on leash and should wear current identification tags.

Like this article? Share it online!

The Lap of Luxury: Santa's Ultimate Pet Gifts

Pets Best — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

You might not believe it, but Ralph Lauren wants to take care of your dog. It's true! He has actually designed a whole line of clothing for pups, guaranteed to keep the well-bred canine comfortable and fashionably well-dressed. And he's not the only one catering to the four-legged set-these days, a host of designers and high-end retail stores offer luxury items for those cats and dogs who appreciate the finer things in life. Here are some of the gifts that you'll find on the Christmas wish lists of America's most pampered pets.

The Ralph Lauren Pup Collection includes a smart-yet-cozy Cashmere Ruffle Dog Sweater priced at $195. The collection also features Lauren's classic Polo shirt, especially tailored for dogs, as well as rugby shirts, hoodies, and coats; prices range from $32 up to $225.

Nordstrom's offers an extensive line of pet accessories by the youthful, edgy Juicy Couture label. For dogs, the line includes plush chew toys, feeding bowls, high-fashion collar-and-lead sets and more. Prices for these run from $25 to $75. And for the trendy pet on the go, whether canine or feline, the Juicy Couture Velour Pet Carrier is available for $295.

Harrods in London carries a line of luxury canine grooming products called Sexy Beast; the line includes a signature eau de parfum, specifically formulated for dogs. It is described as "a unisex blend of bergamot and vanilla-infused musk combined with natural patchouli, mandarin and nutmeg oils." A 3.4-ounce bottle costs about £83 (or $123 American), and custom engraving is available.

A monogrammed, velvet-textured back seat car cover by Eddie Bauer keeps pets comfortable while protecting seats from mud, dirt and pet hair, at a price of $105.50. Other monogrammable items from Eddie Bauer include dog beds and collars that feature the designer's rugged, outdoorsy style.

From Neiman-Marcus comes the Fleur-de-Lis Pet Day Bed , featuring the elegant look of hand-crafted wrought-iron, with a price tag of $200. A matching feeding station is available for only $100.

Perhaps the ultimate in luxury (and expense) is found in Louis Vuitton's Sac Baxter GM , one of several pet carriers by the legendary bag maker. It can hold a pet of 44 pounds and features their signature "LV" monogram canvas with natural cowhide trim. At a cost of $1,610, it tops our list of indulgent gifts.

But what do you get for the pet who already has everything? How about a nice vacation? Soon taking reservations to cities across the country, Pet Airways will let your best friend travel in style and comfort. Though the company has not yet posted prices for individual flights, they say that prices will start as low as $150.

Or how about the sheer luxury of a spa day? Your pet may enjoy a day of pampering as much as you would. These days, many doggy daycares offer services including grooming, professional massage, spas, and more. Check the Yellow Pages or the Internet for a good daycare/day spa for pets near you.

The 3 Most Popular (and Affordable) Pet Gifts

On the other hand, if you're looking for something a bit more frugal this Christmas, FetchDog.com has a few great suggestions. Their Mud Magnet Gloves , for example, are made from super-absorbent microfiber to make quick work of wiping muddy, dirty paws and cost just $19 a pair. Or how about the Holiday Hounds Collar , a rugged webbed-nylon dog collar with a choice of fun holiday-themed patterns for $19 each? Then again, there's the Puppermint Chew -made of peppermint-infused rubber, this tasty toy will freshen the breath of the most active chewers. And at $12 apiece, you can afford to buy one for every dog on your list.

Like this article? Share it online!

Pet Airways: Ready to EmBARK?

Jennifer Jones — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Pet Airways, the first pets-only airline specifically designed for the safe and comfortable transportation of animals is scheduled to begin flights in Spring-Summer 2009 to major destinations throughout the continental U.S. Pet Airways will begin taking reservations in February, 2009. What sets Pet Airways apart from major airlines is that pets fly in the main cabin, not in cargo. "Our pets will travel in the main cabin of our specially outfitted aircraft with climate and lighting controlled for comfort and safety and with a trained Pet Attendant always watching over the pets," the company says.

The airline will offer nationwide coverage with easily accessible check-in lounges in major metropolitan areas. Because people who want to travel with their pets and those who need to move their pets across the country are faced with limited or dangerous transportation choices, Pet Airways aims to make the experience more comfortable and enjoyable. Visit Pet Airways to learn more about how pet travel will be revolutionized at www.petairways.com.

Learn about the new exclusive partnership between Pets Best and Pet Airways!

10 Toxic Foods for Pets

Pets Best — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

10 Potentially Deadly Foods

Secret killers: foods that are tasty for you may be deadly for pets.
This list does not include all of the foods that can harm pets, but does include some of the most common (and surprising!) dangers that could be lurking in your home.

Chocolate
Chocolate toxicity is one of the most common causes of pet poisoning during the holidays. Chocolate contains a lethal component called theobromine -the darker the chocolate, the more theobromine it contains.

Raisins and Grapes
It isn't clear to scientists just what makes raisins and grapes toxic to both cats and dogs, but even a relatively small amount can damage the kidneys.

Onions and Garlic
Many pet owners are surprised to discover that onions and garlic contain sulfoxides and disulfides, which can damage red blood cells and cause anemia in cats and dogs. Onion and garlic powders are found in many prepared foods - even baby food - so make sure to read labels before serving any item to your pet.

Xylitol
Dog poisoning cases involving this artificial sweetener, often found in sugar-free baked goods and candy as well as sugarless gum, are on the rise. Eating it can result in a sudden drop in blood sugar levels, resulting in depression, loss of coordination, and seizures. The amount of xylitol in five pieces of gum has the potential to kill a 65-pound dog.

Fatty Foods
When it comes to fatty cuts of meat and other fatty items including chicken or turkey skin, it's better to throw them out than to feed them to pets as a treat. They can cause acute pancreatitis, a life-threatening illness with severe complications.

Avocado
Potentially poisonous to dogs, cats and other animals, avocados contain a fungicidal toxin called persin. Avocados, if eaten, may trigger fluid accumulation in the lungs and chest, leading to difficulty breathing and death from oxygen deprivation.

Moldy or Spoiled Foods
These can contain multiple toxins that can cause vomiting and diarrhea and may affect other organs.

Alcohol
Because cats and dogs are smaller than humans, alcohol can have a much more deadly affect on them. Dogs are often attracted by the sweet taste of alcoholic drinks, especially eggnog. Even small amounts of alcohol can lead to heart arrhythmias, seizures, coma, and even death.

Macadamia Nuts
Though the exact reason is something of a mystery, these famous Hawaiian exports are considered toxic to dogs because they tend to cause gastrointestinal upsets, lethargy, vomiting and muscle tremors or stiffness. As few as six nuts can cause severe poisoning.

Coffee Grounds
Accidentally ingesting coffee grounds, or consuming any drink that is high in caffeine, can cause your dog's heart to race. This can result in seizures, tremors, arrhythmias, vomiting, diarrhea, or difficulty in breathing.

Because toxicity symptoms are similar no matter what your pet may have eaten, you should watch out if your pet seems to be distressed, listless or in pain. Bloody stools or vomiting are also possible indications. Gastrointestinal problems can lead a build-up of gas until the stomach becomes bloated and hard to the touch. This painful condition can cause the stomach to burst if not treated.

If you think your pet might have been poisoned, call your veterinarian or a poison-control hotline; the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Hotline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 888-426-4435. (A consultation fee will be charged for their help dealing with a potential poisoning.)

The good news is, in most cases, toxic poisoning can be successfully treated if you seek help for your pet right away.

Like this article? Share it online!

Holiday Fare you Can Share: Home Cooking for Dogs and Cats

Pets Best — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The holidays are full of warm, happy occasions shared with family, and for people like us, pets play just as large a role in these occasions as humans do. But by treating pets just like people, could we be killing them with kindness?

Along with celebrating the joy and love of family togetherness, Thanksgiving traditionally celebrates a bounty of delicious homemade foods. It's understandable that we would want to share this bounty with our four-legged family members, but there are plenty of good reasons not to. Foods laden with spices, salt, or fat, for example, can cause stomach distress in pets and can even lead to serious health problems. Plus, there is concern that feeding pets a menu of human food, whether the feeding is done at the table or in pets' regular feeding areas, can encourage begging.

Still, as family members, don't Fido and Felix deserve some lovin' from the oven? Of course they do! So when you're planning Thanksgiving dinner, don't forget your pets. Cooking for cats and dogs is actually a major trend among pet owners. An online search reveals that there hundreds of pet cookbooks on the market and thousands of recipes available to download.

One of the best pet cookbooks, Real Food for Dogs: 50 Vet-Approved Recipes to Please the Canine Gastronome , was written by pet author Arden Moore (www.ardenmoore.com). Incredibly, it has reached sixth place on Amazon's list of top-selling books. Each of the 50 nutritionally-balanced recipes was approved by Dr. Rebecca Remillard DVM, of the American College of Veterinary Nutrition, including such drool-inducing favorites as Pooch Pancakes, Gobble-Down Goulash and Leap for Liver.

Moore's publisher, Storey Publishing, also offers a cookbook titled Real Food for Cats: 50 Vet-Approved Recipes to Please the Feline Gastronome by Patti Delmonte. This holiday season, you might want to try Delmonte's "Turkey Surprise" for cats or Moore's "Fido Thanksgiving Feast" for dogs; both are reprinted below. With these special dishes, your pet can participate in the Thanksgiving festivities without the problems that come with traditional holiday fare (make sure to remove the skin, which is high in fat, from turkey meat).

It's important to note that the recipes in Real Food for Dogs and Real Food for Cats are not meant to replace high-quality pet foods, but to add to your pet's diet, creating variety and interest.

Dogs and cats, of course, have different nutritional needs - one interesting difference is that cats are classified as carnivores, meaning that they can't maintain their health without a regular supply of meat in their diet. Dogs, on the other hand, are considered to be omnivores, and may benefit from a diet of wider variety including cooked egg whites, cottage cheese, yogurt, rice, pasta and even veggies.

"Vegetables are a great source for that chubby canine who looks like a furry ottoman," Moore explains. She suggests a replacing a portion of their kibble or canned food with steamed green beans or steamed carrots. "It enables the dog to still feel full without as many calories."

Whether you're cooking for your dog or your cat, you'll be showing your love by keeping them as healthy as possible, says Moore: "If you invest in quality food in your pet's bowl, you increase the chances that your pet will live a longer, healthier life plus you will save on veterinary bills. It's a win-win for you and your pet."

FIDO THANKSGIVING FEAST*

1 teaspoon olive oil
½ cup mashed potatoes
1 egg
½ cup diced cooked turkey meat
½ cup chopped broccoli
½ cup grated cheddar cheese

Warm the olive oil in a medium-sized pan over medium heat.
In a small bowl, whisk together the potatoes and egg.
Pour the potato and egg mix into the pan. Add the turkey and broccoli.
Cover the pan, reduce heat to low and simmer until the egg is cooked.
Top with the grated cheese and let it cook for a few minutes longer to allow the cheese to melt.
Let cool before serving.

NOTE: this recipe's portion is based on a medium-sized dog between 30-50 pounds. Adjust the portion accordingly for the size of your dog.

TURKEY SURPRISE*

Turkey won't be much of a surprise to the people at your Thanksgiving table, but your cat will be delighted to see this dish in her bowl on that holiday - or any other day, for that matter.

1 teaspoon iodized salt
2 teaspoons corn oil
1½ cups water
½ cup uncooked rice
½ pound turkey giblets, chopped into kitty-bite-size pieces
¼ cup finely chopped carrot
½ cup chopped spinach

Add the salt and oil to the water and bring to a boil. Pour the rice into the boiling water, lower heat, cover, and cook for 10 minutes.
Stir in the turkey giblets, carrot, and spinach. Cover and simmer over low heat for another 10 minutes. Cool and serve.

Makes 4 or 5 servings.

*Reprinted with permission from Storey Publishing

Like this article? Share it online!

Happy Howl-oween!

Pets Best — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Enjoying Halloween with your pets can be a hairy problem. Or it can be a real treat. You're the best judge of how your pet will react to this happy-but hectic-holiday, but chances are good that with a bit of planning, everyone, including your furry family members, can get into the spirit.

Holiday Stress
Animal experts warn that dogs or cats, even those who are usually tolerant of strangers, can become stressed on Halloween night, with a steady stream of strangers in strange costumes ringing your doorbell and shouting "trick or treat!"

Even if your pet is normally friendly, keep an eye out for any aggressive or fearful reactions. If you choose to crate your animal or keep them contained in any way, they should be kept in a quiet, safe place-otherwise, stress could result in diarrhea or potential injury.

Safety First
With loose pets, remember to keep candles and jack o' lanterns out of the way-a sprinting cat or a wagging dog's tail could result in a blaze. All pets, especially black cats, should be kept indoors, safe from Halloween pranksters.

Sticky Situations

Be sure to keep treats out of pets' reach-chewing and swallowing lollipop sticks or candy wrappers can result in intestinal obstruction or rupture, which are serious emergencies. Children should be warned not to share candy with pets, particularly chocolate, which is toxic to them. If you think your pet has eaten chocolate, watch for tremors, vomiting, diarrhea, or an increased heart rate, and call your veterinarian immediately. Chocolate poisoning is an emergency situation.

Best Dressed Pets
There are lots of Halloween costumes for pets in the stores these days. While dressing your pet up can be fun and oh-so cute, you should be careful. Don't leave your costumed pet unsupervised, as they might try to chew their costume and could choke on bits of material. If your pet is frightened and tries to run away, the costume could get caught on a bush or fence, entangling the animal.

Healthy. Happy.

Pets Best — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

For humans, staying happy can be a complicated issue. Not so for pets, who, as long as they are healthy, loved and well cared for, are almost always happy. With National Pet Health Month in full swing, now is a great time to perform a check-up on your pet's health care and make sure you're doing everything you can to protect your furry friends. Here's what you should be doing to help maintain their good health, plus the top ten signs that your pet may be feeling ill.

Regular Wellness Exams
You probably visit your doctor, and your dentist, for a yearly checkup. Your pet, though, ages up to seven times faster than you do-if you take your pet to the veterinarian once a year, it's like you seeing your doctor or dentist just once every seven years! Pets who have reached middle age should have a wellness exam every six months.

What should your wellness exam include? The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) endorses this list of ten important health screenings for adult dogs and cats. Your veterinarian may recommend additional tests, depending on your pet's age and other factors.

Vaccinations
Osteoarthritis check
Parasite check
Chest radiograph
Heartworm check
Thyroid check
Dental health
Blood panel (CBC)
Chemistry panel
Urinalysis

Keep in mind that BestWellness, an optional plan available to Pets Best policyholders, provides annual benefits toward wellness exams as well as tests including blood panel, heart worm, and urinalysis, plus numerous vaccinations and more, all with no deductibles.

Which Vaccinations? How Often?
According to the AVMA, not all pets should be vaccinated with all vaccines. Your veterinarian should determine your pet's needs based on the pet's health, potential exposure, access to other animals, and travel to other geographic locations, since these factors affect your pet's risk of disease.

Likewise, the best vaccination schedule should take a number of factors into account. A set of annual vaccinations used to be the norm, but doctors now recognize that while some vaccinations offer disease protection that lasts longer than a year, others may fail to protect for a full year. Your veterinarian should design the most effective vaccination routine around the specific needs of your pet.

Signs of Trouble
Even with the help of regular exams and vaccinations, your pet may still get sick from time to time. But pets, unlike people, won't tell you when they don't feel good, especially our feline companions-it is up you to watch for the signs of illness. Pet health problems are easier to treat when they are addressed quickly. Remember that the list below is not exhaustive. Pets have plenty of ways to let you know they are not feeling well, but you should definitely call your veterinarian if your pet shows any of these common symptoms:

Loss of appetite for more than a day
Drinking more than usual for days
Gaining or losing a lot of weight quickly
Strange behavior including sudden viciousness
Being unusually sluggish and tired
Trouble getting up or laying down
Strange lumps
Abnormal discharge from eyes, nose, or elsewhere
Excessive head shaking, scratching, licking or biting
Dandruff, loss of hair, skin sores, a ragged or dull coat

The National Greyhound Adoption Program

Pets Best — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Every year, racing-dog breeders produce tens of thousands of greyhounds, far more than they can place at racetracks. This overbreeding is motivated by the desire to produce winning dogs. Many times, the dogs that are not fast enough to compete are euthanized. Those who are fast enough may only race until they are retired at three-and-a-half to four years of age. Thousands of greyhounds at each track are disposed of yearly to bring in a fresh group of dogs.

In response to this widespread problem, the National Greyhound Adoption Program was founded in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in 1989. Their main goals are:

To help find loving, adoptive homes for former racing greyhounds

To provide superior knowledge and support for greyhound adopters and other adoption groups

To educate the public and spread awareness about the plight of the greyhound

To provide specialized medical care specifically geared towards the greyhound

NGAP's first few adoptions took place in the early 1990s, with greyhounds being flown a few at a time from Florida to Philadelphia. Later, the group began hauling greyhounds up from Florida in a large truck, often up to 30 dogs at a time. NGAP has come a long way since those early days and greyhound adoption is now just a fraction of the things that they do.

In 1995, NGAP opened its own greyhound clinic to fulfill the need for specialized greyhound care. Their clinic and surgical facility performs over 2,000 greyhound procedures under anesthesia annually-more than any other facility in the United States.

The NGAP now receives greyhounds from a variety of different groups all over the United States. Their kennel houses anywhere from 40 to 50 adoptable greyhounds, and they maintain a staff of almost twenty people including full-time, live-in caretakers.

The non-profit group has no affiliation with any greyhound track or any other organization; they pride themselves on being a strong national advocate for greyhounds. They are primarily funded by adoption fees, fund raising events, car donations and various donations of other kinds. You can learn more at www.ngap.org.

It should be noted that the NGAP is not the only group in America dedicated to the rescue of these majestic, loving dogs. In fact, there are hundreds of local rescue organizations throughout the United States and around the globe seeking good homes for the nearly endless supply of greyhounds. Interested in helping to solve this problem in your local area? The Greyhound Project, Inc., at www.adopt-a-greyhound.org, is a great resource, offering a worldwide directory of recue organizations. Locate a rescue organization in your area and contact them to learn how you can adopt a greyhound or make a donation.

Having a Dog Can Save Your Life

Pets Best — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Dogs provide us with companionship, love, loyalty, and friendship - but having a dog could also save your life. It is easy to underestimate your dog, but when danger strikes, it may be your dog that comes to the rescue and helps to keep you safe.

Dogs are incredibly instinctive, especially when working with those who are elderly or ill. Many dogs can, in fact, be trained to alert their owners when they are about to have a seizure, or even when their blood sugar is too low. They also play a vital role in the recovery of many of their owners. There have been many cases of miraculous recoveries when a patient is reunited and allowed to stay with their dog, with whom they have a close connection.

Nationwide, there are many dogs working in the field of pet therapy, where their love and compassion can help brighten the spirits and save the lives of those who are ill. The patients who receive pet therapy are often down and out, and have all but given up hope for survival. The pet therapy and love they receive from these dogs helps to enliven them, and give them a reason to live again.

Their instinctive nature also comes in handy when dogs are trying to warn their owners of impending danger. Many cases have been reported of dogs waking their owners up in the middle of the night to alert them of fires, robbers, or extreme weather.

Dogs have also been known to help find their owners when they are lost. Dogs have rescued adults and children who were drowning, helped locate survivors after a natural disaster, and have been known to run for help when their owners have become stranded, or hurt far from help.

Dogs are some of the most loyal friends that many people will ever have. And they may just save your life.

Long Term Health Effects of Invisible Fences

Pets Best — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Owning a dog is a big responsibility, and having to train your dog to stay outside can be difficult at times. Many people decide to invest in invisible fencing, thinking that this is the best solution to keeping their dog contained. However, it is wise to research the long term health effects of invisible fencing on dogs before you decide to invest the money, time, and energy into buying one.

Invisible fencing works by burying a wire around your yard, typically where you would install a traditional fence. You then attach a special collar around your dog's neck, and when he or she crosses the "invisible" line of the fence, they receive a shock. Many advocates of this type of training call it a "simple static electric shock." Unfortunately, this is not always true. There have been people who have tried the collars on themselves, crossed the line, taken the shock and then realized that it is painful enough to cause limping, tingling and even nausea for hours afterwards. Different dogs can take different amounts of pain, so a shock that may be mild to one dog can be quite painful to another.

Long term health effects of invisible fencing can vary. For one, many dogs are so upset by the shock that they start to refuse to come outside. They are so scared of being shocked that they become languid, refusing to leave the house and cowering inside at times. Dogs may begin to live in fear that they will be electrocuted for normal behaviors. This can cause health problems gradually as the dog may become lazier and gain weight from lack of exercise, simply because they are too scared to venture outside. Psychological stress to a dog being trained with an invisible fence is very real indeed, and a problem that can lead to health problems later. These can include aggression and panicked behavior.

Some dogs simply do not respond to an invisible fence. Labrador Retrievers and Golden Retrievers are two breeds that have a high tolerance for pain. That being said, these breeds may not be stopped by the shock that an electric fence will give them and charge through it anyway. Repeated shocks to a dog can lead to changes in the dog's system, such as the heart and respiration rate. It can also lead to gastrointestinal disorders and long term urinary problems.

Another long term health problem that can develop is the possibility of seizures. While there are still many disagreements over whether an invisible fence and the ensuing shock actually causes seizures, dogs that are epileptic may suffer a seizure if shocked. Dogs that have severe skin issues or sensitive skin can also suffer long term health effects from the use of an invisible fence since the collar must be worn outside at all times. There may also be prongs on the collar that have to be in close contact with skin, and these can cause long term irritations to the skin around the neck of many sensitive dogs.

Because the health effects of invisible fences can be unpredictable, be sure to monitor your dog's health and behavior to determine whether or not an invisible fence is right for your dog.

10 Animals Who Have Better Jobs Than You

Pets Best — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Many animals have jobs; some serve a vital role for those in need, and others are just purely for our entertainment. However, most of us have never really considered that animals may have better jobs than we do. Many animals hold higher positions in society then we could ever hope to reach, and get paid quite well for the jobs they do. Here are ten of them.

10. Seeing Eye dogs have great jobs. They get to help people everyday. Not only that, but they have someone who depends on them for survival. They live every day knowing that they are needed, and have a sense of purpose. They also are well provided for and loved, and receive much more attention than their regular pet counterparts.

9. Oscar the Hospice cat and other therapy pets have fulfilling jobs as well. Oscar is a special kind of therapy cat who works for Hospice, a program for the terminally ill. Oscar has a knack for knowing when someone is near the end of their life, and will curl up with them until they pass on. Oscar is well taken care of in the Hospice house, and was given a plaque to commemorate his commitment to patients' end of life care. Other therapy pets serve a similar role, and are surrounded everyday by patients vying for their love and affection. They are treated kindly, and serve an important roll in many hospitals and nursing homes worldwide.

8. Brody the Bear is a trained Kodiak bear who has been raised by his owner Jeff Watson since he was a cub weighing less than ten pounds. He has performed in many films, television shows, and commercials such as The Today Show, Energizer commercials, and Rice Krispie Treat commercials. He spends his non-working days playing with his owner and traveling the country to help educate the public about bears and outdoor safety. He has even spent the night at Muhammad Ali's house while on the road!

7. Racehorses have better jobs than us as well. They get to perform doing something they love, and they live very cushy lives most of the time. They train hard, or play hard, depending on how you look at it. Horses naturally love to run, and having a job doing what you love is hard to come by. Winning racehorses are well provided for to ensure their continued health and performance. They receive the best grooming, food, healthcare, and more to keep them on the winning track.

6. The Budweiser Clydesdales have pretty cushy jobs too. There are six teams of Clydesdales working for Budweiser, five that travel the country ten months out of the year, and one that stays at the main headquarters in St. Louis, Missouri. The Clydesdales that travel the country are put up in the best stables, and travel in trailers that have air cushion suspension and rubber flooring for comfort. The team housed at headquarters lives in the historic brick and stained glass stable, and all teams enjoy the crowds of people that gather to greet them.

5. Twiggy the water skiing squirrel has starred in many movies including recent films like Dodgeball, Anchorman, and Down to Earth. He originally started his career as a water skiing squirrel act in 1979. Once discovered, nothing could stop him from becoming a superstar! Twiggy and his owner are paid handsomely for his roles in movies, and you can rest assured that Twiggy is living the squirrel high life.

4. There are 22 Orcas that perform at the three Sea World parks across the United States, and they love their jobs. They perform tricks for thousands of people everyday, and get rewarded for everything they do. They are fed the most nutritious food, and shown plenty of love and attention by their trainers and the people who look after them. They are much better cared for than their wild cousins, and are far more famous!

3. Gidget, a Chihuahua born in 1995, made herself and her owner a large amount of money. She will die a legend, forever remembered as the Taco Bell dog. Gidget played the famous dog in the Taco Bell commercials from 1997 until 2000, when she was replaced by a new ad campaign. She now enjoys early retirement, and lounging around in doggy nirvana as her owners cater to her every need.

2. Levi, the monkey from Disney's Pirates of the Caribbean, is one of the most recent animals to land a job as a superstar. Levi, an eight-year-old Capuchin, played the undead monkey in each of the three Pirates movies. He has truly achieved star status with loads of fan mail and his own fan club. He has earned a place in our hearts, and is well-provided for by his owners.

1. The animal with the best job that is most assuredly better than ours, is good old Punxsutawney Phil. How great would it be if you worked only one day out of the year, and had the entire day dedicated you and what you do? Every year, people gather to celebrate this Groundhog Day by watching Phil do his job on Gobbler's Knob. The remainder of the year, he lives in the town library, and even has a wife named Phyllis. The two groundhogs are taken care of by a group called the Punxsutawney Club. Phil even has an "inner circle" that is in charge of planning the annual Groundhog Day ceremony.

The list doesn't end there; many more animals are far more famous than us, or hold jobs that offer more fulfillment and respect that ours do. Don't you wish you had it as good?

Designer Dogs: Furry Status Symbols

Pets Best — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Designer dogs have become the new trend both in and outside of Hollywood. Since their arrival on shows like Good Morning America and The Today Show, these pets have become the hottest thing around, with many A-list celebrities standing in line to pick theirs out. These new breeds of dogs have become little more than little furry status symbols, with everyone fighting to be the first to own one.

Designer dogs are created by the mating of two purebred dogs of different breeds. These new breeds of dogs often lack the flaws of the individual breeds, while keeping all the cuteness and desirable qualities. For instance, a puggle is a mix between a beagle and a pug, lacking the bulging eyes and stubbornness of its parents, while staying just as adorable. Some of these designer dogs also boast even temperaments and allergen-free fur, which is a big plus for people who have children or allergies. Puggles and other breeds - such as labradoodles, a mix of a poodle and a Labrador retriever, and schnoodles, a miniature schnauzer and poodle mix - are the newest status symbols among celebrities, and the waiting lists for the top breeders can be full for up to a year or more.

Just like designer jeans and jewelry, which are also marketed to the rich and famous, these designer pups do not come at a small price. Prices for these mixed breeds start around $900, and can often go up to $2,000 for dogs from the best breeders. Celebrities are not the only ones love-struck by these pooches; many middle class families have taken to purchasing their own designer pups, a new way of keeping up with the Joneses, as it were. Although these dogs will never be pedigreed animals, they can currently be registered with the American Canine Hybrid Club (ACHC).

What is the difference between a designer dog and a mutt? With mutts, the bloodlines of the animal can't be traced, whereas with designer dogs, both parents are known, and the dog may even come from champion bloodlines. There has been some controversy surrounding these mixed breeds lately. Some believe that people are buying the dogs just to say they own a designer dog, and then dumping them when the dogs turn out to be less than they expected. Others believe that it is wrong to be breeding more mixed breed animals when there are many of the same mixes in the shelters.

Even with the high price tags and lack of pedigree, breeders have found a hot market in designer dogs. Status symbol or not, there is no denying the cuteness of these pups, and their ability to win the hearts of their owners.

What to Know About Sending Your Pet to the ER

Pets Best — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Caring for a pet can be an expensive but necessary venture. The cost of pet ownership is soaring through the roof, and even a simple trip to the vet can set you back several hundred dollars. Therefore, there are many factors that you need to consider, should your pet need treatment at an animal ER.

Emergencies happen, and there isn't much we can do to change that. What we can do, however, is be prepared financially in the event of an emergency. The fact is that emergency care for animals, much like for humans, is much more expensive than a regular veterinary visit. Procedures often cost twice what they would during normal office hours. Sometimes you just can't wait, and emergency care is required. There are steps that can be taken to lessen the financial burden to ensure that you can afford to give your pet the care it needs.

Pet insurance is quickly becoming popular among pet owners. It makes sense, especially if you have an older animal or a breed that is prone to medical problems. Pet insurance, just like people insurance, comes in a variety of plans and costs. There are different policies that reimburse you for costs and some that pay a percentage of the costs for you up-front.

Start thinking about to what to do in an emergency while your pet is still healthy. Talk with your local veterinarian, and ask what their policy is for emergencies. Many times, veterinarians will take emergency clients for an added fee, and other times they will refer you to a local animal emergency shelter that they are affiliated with. You need to make sure that you know all of your pet's vital information, including their name, date of birth, shot records, and any medications they may taking, because you will be asked to fill out paperwork when there is an emergency. Other than that, a trip to the emergency care center is often like a trip to a veterinary office. The vet will examine your animal and keep you updated on what is going on, and what procedures or treatments your pet may need.

No matter what kind of pet you own, being prepared for emergency care is a smart thing to do.

And The Winners Are . . . !

Angela Klein — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

What a wonderful group of pets we are able to insure! When we asked you for your photos, we had no idea that we'd get such an overwhelming and amazing response. Your pets are BEAUTIFUL!!

We want to thank each person who took the time to send in a photo or two of your cherished dog or cat. We know that behind each beautiful face is a story of love and friendship that goes deeper than words.

It was unbelievably hard to choose a winner, harder because of the hundreds of photos we had to choose from. We debated, we laughed, we smiled and - in the end - we decided we had taken on a much bigger task than we had originally envisioned. Everyone was so good looking!

So, along with the winners, we had to choose several Honorable Mentions, even though we think that all the pets deserve recognition. In order to showcase all the photos, we've also put together a photo gallery that you can view by clicking here.

Thank you for joining in our summer fun and for the kind words that many of you sent. Knowing we are able to help so many pets and that we are making a difference is what keeps us going. We're glad we've been able to help.

We hope you enjoy the pictures and thanks again to everyone who took the time to send a photo!

Pets Best 2008 Summer Photo Contest Winners

Pets Best Adds Features to Online Account Access

Angela Klein — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Have you had a chance to log in to your account online yet? If you haven't, this is a great time to because we've been adding features that make it even easier for you to view your claims and change account information.

New features include:

Add/change your credit card information
Change your address
Change your phone number
See when claims have been received

You're also still able to:

View chosen coverage for your pets
See when claims have been processed
Change your email address

Access your account anytime online. The set up process is easy and only takes about 3 minutes.

Your time is precious. Use your online access to take care of changes and view the status of your claims when it's most convenient for you!

If you would like help setting up your online account access, just let us know. We'd love to help. Contact us at 1-877-738-7237 (877-PETSBEST) or customerservice@petsbest.com.

Thank you for allowing us to insure your pets and for referring Pets Best to friends and family who love their pets. We look forward to serving you and your pets for years to come!

2ndChance4Pets Works to Ensure Lifetime Care

Angela Klein — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

IF YOU FIND IT HARD TO THINK ABOUT LIFE WITHOUT YOUR PET, IMAGINE YOUR PET'S LIFE WITHOUT YOU

Amy Shever has had a passion for pets all her life. From 1985-2001, Amy volunteered at local animal shelters in Northern California because she wanted to help pets. What she didn't realize was that she would witness large numbers of animals undergoing euthanization because there were no homes for them.

Many of these pets had been surrendered to animal shelters simply because they had outlived their pet owners, and these owners had made no plans for their continued care.

This experience led to a personal mission to help make a difference in the lives of pets and help prevent unnecessary euthanasia. Amy founded an organization, 2nd Chance 4 Pets (www.2ndchance4pets.org). This all-volunteer organization works across the U.S. with pet owners, veterinarians and animal care groups to ensure lifetime care for pets should pets outlive their owners.

In the United States, there are 4 to 5 million abandoned and orphaned pets euthanized each year. Thousands of animal companions are relinquished and euthanized in animal shelters and in veterinarian offices each year simply because their humans died or were too ill to care for them. Armed with these statistics and a deep desire to make a difference, Amy asks the tough question: "What will happen to your pets if they outlive you?" Pet owners are encouraged to plan for their pets and prevent them from becoming yet another statistic.

For more information about 2^nd Chance 4 Pets and to locate resources and lifetime care information, visit them online at www.2ndchance4pets.org. The website content covers a range of topics on planning, including the importance of selecting potential caregivers for your pets, the basics of pet trusts and alternative lifetime care solutions.

By planning for your pets' future now, you'll be sure that your pets always have someone to care for them.

StaffBest: Providing a Simplified Staff Discount Plan for Veterinary Hospitals

Jennifer Jones — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Christy Johnson, a certified veterinary practice manager with Pampered Pet Health Center in Port Charlotte, Fla., recognized the value of pet insurance, she just didn't realize that anyone in her office would use it as quickly as they did.

"One of our staff members had only had the policy for 3 weeks when her pet had grease in her eye and ended up getting an ulcer and needed corneal debridement, 80% of which was covered by Pets Best," she said.

"With Pets Best Insurance, we know what the benefit will be and there is no guesswork involved, which is one of the reasons why we have our staff enrolled in their plans."

More and more hospital employees are learning what Christy already knows: that having insurance can be a life-saver. Hospitals that enroll five or more pets as a group receive a 20%* discount off monthly premiums.

If you are a veterinarian or hospital administrator, take a look at how StaffBest can benefit your employees as well as your practice:

No longer discount the cost of veterinary care at your hospital. You can offer your full range of services at your normal rates and your employees can benefit from our quick 80% claim reimbursement and ease of use.
You and your employees will have access to emergency care, specialists, and referral services while still having the peace of mind knowing you can receive 80% back, after the deductible.
StaffBest can be tailored to fit any hospital. You decide how many pets to enroll, which plan you'd like, and which payment option works best.

This benefit is a valuable incentive for your employees. If you would like to receive a quote or have questions, please call the Pets Best Veterinary Services Department at 1-877-738-7237 ext. 4 or email us at vetservices@petsbest.com.

* Discount not available in all states.

Pets Best Rolls Out New Web Pages for Veterinarians

Angela Klein — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

You Asked. We Listened!

These are exciting times at Pets Best! To keep up with our record growth, we have redesigned our web pages to better meet your needs.

See for yourself at www.petsbest.com/veterinarians

Specifically designed with you in mind, on the new web pages you can:

Request or Download an Information Kit
Order or Re-order Pets Best brochures
Sign up for the Pets Best Veterinary Newsletter
Learn More About Staff Trainings
Find Out How StaffBest Can Save You Money

Be sure to check out our new brochure that we've enclosed and order more online or by phone today!

You know that having pet insurance means that your clients are financially prepared and able to say yes to the best veterinary care and treatments available. Share the good news!

Go online to www.petsbest.com/vets and see how easy it is to share Pets Best with your clients.

Want to Learn More? We Make It Easy!

Join a Pets Best Webinar and get all your questions answered in a 30-minute interactive presentation. Learn more about pet insurance and why Pets Best truly is simply the best pet insurance available today.

Based on your feedback, we've expanded our Webinar offerings. Now you can pre-register for a Webinar at a time that's most convenient for you and your staff.

All you need to join is a high-speed Internet connection and a speaker phone.

Choose the date and time that works best for you
Log in to your webinar online at gotowebinar.com 5 - 10 minutes before your scheduled time
Call into the conference line (1-877-661-9832)
Enter your I.D. number (83301)
Enjoy your presentation!

Every Webinar has a question-and-answer session at the end to make sure your questions are covered. Register for your Webinar and you'll even be sent a reminder the day and hour before to remind you.

Learn more and have fun at the same time!

If you'd like to talk with us about Pets Best webinars, give us a call at 1-877-738-7237 ext. 4. We'd love to hear from you! Or, Register Today -- you'll be glad you did!

Recent Articles from PetsBest.com

Why Should You Recommend One Pet Insurance company?

Give a Pet the Gift of Protection

Bookmark & Share

Make sharing easier with AddThis for Firefox.

Warning: Top 10 Winter Dangers for Pets

The Lap of Luxury: Santa's Ultimate Pet Gifts

Pet Airways: Ready to EmBARK?

10 Toxic Foods for Pets

Holiday Fare you Can Share: Home Cooking for Dogs and Cats

Happy Howl-oween!

Healthy. Happy.

The National Greyhound Adoption Program

Having a Dog Can Save Your Life

Long Term Health Effects of Invisible Fences

10 Animals Who Have Better Jobs Than You

Designer Dogs: Furry Status Symbols

What to Know About Sending Your Pet to the ER

And The Winners Are . . . !

Pets Best Adds Features to Online Account Access

2ndChance4Pets Works to Ensure Lifetime Care

StaffBest: Providing a Simplified Staff Discount Plan for Veterinary Hospitals

Pets Best Rolls Out New Web Pages for Veterinarians