Articles from Newsletters

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.

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Give a Pet the Gift of Protection

Pets Best — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 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!

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.

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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.

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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

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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.

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.

Spotlight On: The Arizona Humane Society

Angela Klein — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

With one look at the Arizona Humane Society, it's easy to see that this group is so much more than just a shelter for pets in transition.

Founded in 1957 as a private nonprofit organization, the Arizona Humane Society works daily to stay true to their mission: to safeguard, rescue, shelter, heal, adopt and advocate for animals in need.

In addition to being Arizona's largest animal-welfare protection agency, the Arizona Humane Society provides free or low-cost spay/neuter services for dogs and cats in an effort to end pet over-population in the greater Phoenix area. Last year, nearly 20,000 surgeries were performed. They accomplish this at their campuses and on the road with their mobile spay/neuter and animal wellness centers that travel throughout the Southwest.

Each year, more than 50,000 pets are rescued and/or sheltered at the Arizona Humane society's campuses, and as the state-designated companion animal disaster response organization, they also provide services to pets in natural disasters.

In 2004, the Arizona Humane Society was honored as the National Shelter of the Year, chosen from over 300 other animal protection organizations throughout the United States.

Additionally, the Arizona Humane Society inspires community action through their efforts such as their Pets on Parade television show, educating groups on the importance of respect and compassion for all living beings through the Startdust Humane Education Program, and lobbying for laws that protect pets.

Pets on Parade, which holds the distinction of being the longest running show in the history of Arizona television, hit the airwaves in the Phoenix-metro area 40 years ago and features adoptable pets from the shelter.

To learn more about the Arizona Humane Society and their efforts, visit them online at www.azhumane.org.

Pets Best Insurance is proud to partner with the Arizona Humane Society and others in the Pets Best "Racing to Save Pets" campaign by identifying and confronting the key issues that cause euthanasia.

Dr. Jack Stephens, a veterinarian and the founder and pioneer of the pet insurance industry in the United States created "Racing to Save Pets" as a means to address and create a sense of urgency regarding the primary reasons that cause 3 million pets in shelters and millions more throughout the country to be destroyed each year.

"Racing to Save Pets" addresses the need for better support and understanding of our community shelters by raising support and awareness. Pets Best Insurance also provides its ShelterBest partnership program as a means to directly support shelters with community efforts and funding that can make the difference for countless pets that need and deserve to find homes.

By providing a better understanding of the human health benefits of pet ownership, raising awareness for smaller shelters and groups that need support, and providing an ongoing source of donations, "Racing to Save Pets" is partnering across the nation with shelters like the Arizona Humane Society and other adoption groups to make a difference and reduce unnecessary euthanasia.

On the Road Again! Travel Tips for Smooth Sailing with Your Dog

Angela Klein — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

There are few phrases in a dog's vocabulary that elicit joy like the phrase "Let's go!" As more and more families bring their pets along on their travels, we wanted to compile a list of tips to remember to help make your journey safe, memorable and fun.

The adage says that the devil might be in the details, but planning before you go will help not only relieve last minute stress but give you the knowledge you need to make choices you'll be happy with. Be sure to ask about the features, fees and restrictions of each hotel or campground you're considering as some establishments charge a flat fee where others offer a refundable deposit. Ask which category the prospective hotel falls in, since some can be as high as $100. Also, knowing that the motel you're wanting has a policy of no dogs over 25 pounds will help ensure that when you show up with your Great Dane that there are no surprises waiting for you, such as having to find another hotel at the last minute.

Speaking of surprises, we'll state the obvious here as a side note, but as more and more dogs are out and about, remember to pick up after your dog when you're traveling, whether you're at a campground, motel, dog park or even a rest area, to keep the good will and friendly attitudes toward our pets strong.

Other potentially obvious tips that deserve repeating when planning a trip:

Bring your dog's favorite toy or blanket.
If traveling by plane, don't feed your dog for six hours before the trip and be sure to check the airline's policies for caring for your dog if you can't fly together.
When traveling by car, allow extra time to get out and stretch and be sure to have plenty of water on hand so there's no risk of dehydration.
Remember that a tired dog is a happy dog. Exercise before you go.
Enter and unpack in your hotel room first. This will make sure that your scent is in the room before your dog enters it.
Bring along a first-aid kit and an extra leash, just in case.

As much as we all don't like to think about emergencies, the truth of the matter is that they happen. Plotting out several veterinarians on your route before you go means that if something happens, you'll know where to go without having to spend time looking. Use our Vet Locator to quickly find several options, including emergency clinics, in the areas you'll be vacationing.

Finally, be sure to remember things like water safety (yes, there absolutely are life jackets for dogs, and they're recommended) and avoid any potential for heat stroke and other summer dangers like hot cars and walking on black pavement for any period of time. (Ouch! Those poor paw pads!)

Most of all, whether you're going just up the road or halfway around the world, enjoy yourself. Pack up those doggy goggles, whatever he or she needs to be comfortable and repeat those wonderful words, "Let's go!" Your next adventure is just a road trip away.

You Oughta Be in Pictures!

Angela Klein — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

You Oughta Be in Pictures!

With summer fully arrived, the heat is on and we're looking for your best doggone and cool cat photos. Submit your dog or cat's best summer photo with a caption by August 15th and we'll post winners - one for dogs and one for cats - in the early September edition of the Pets Best Newsletter.

We love to hear the stories of the pets in the Pets Best family and look forward to getting to know more about yours!

Our sales manager, Steve Gardner, says he will personally be in charge of the photos, so we have high hopes that fun will be had by all.

In addition to bragging rights, Steve promises to send the winning dog and cat cool treats. (Bones and catnip have been mentioned so far, but one just never knows with Steve!)

So get in on the summertime fun and send us your favorite photo by August 15th. Also, Steve said that he loves putting pictures on our website, so when you send a picture to him remember that you are giving him permission to post it. We look forward to hearing from you!

Send your photos to Steve at sgardner@petsbest.com or call and chew the fat with him at 1-877-738-7237 ext. 311. (Or, in his words, regale him with tales of fun and mystery.) Give him a call. You'll be glad you did!

Helpful Hints When Filing Claims

Angela Klein — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

While we've worked to make filling out claims as simple as possible, we wanted to share with you some tips to help speed the processing of your claim and make sure that reimbursements reach you as quickly as possible.

Making sure a claim is complete is the single most important thing you can do. Use this checklist to help:

___ Have you filled out all required fields?

Hint: listing why your pet was brought to the office or hospital is incredibly important and often overlooked - Unless your vet lets us know why the pet was seen, we won't know!

___ Have you signed the form?

Insurance regulators say that we have to have this from you in order to pay your claim. It's also the most common problem when it comes to incomplete forms. Double-checking each time will ensure faster payment.

___ Has your vet or designated hospital staff member signed the form?

Ditto on the above.

___ Have you included a copy of the detailed hospital invoice showing payment - not just a payment receipt but something that shows the charges for the services that were provided?

Without a paid invoice, we won't know that A) your vet has been paid so that we're allowed to reimburse you; and B) that the charges were for medications and procedures related to an illness or an accident (or wellness if you have the BestWellness plan in addition to your policy), not things like food, books, videos and other items not covered by insurance.

___ If you faxed your claim form and invoice to us, was it right-side up?

We do it, too, so we know it happens. When claims are faxed upside down, nothing comes through. If you haven't received an email from us saying that we received your claim, chances are that it may have been faxed upside down.

Claim receipt emails are usually sent within 12 to 24 hours after we receive them. As always, please feel free to call us if you ever have any questions about the status of your claim. 24 hours after receipt, our Customer Service representatives will be able to confirm that your claim was received.

Once your claim is processed, we'll make a note of it in your account online. If you haven't set your account up yet, it's easy! Just log on to the Pets Best Customer Portal and we'll walk you through the set up.

Again, anytime you need help, we're happy to answer your questions. Please do call us! 1-877-738-7237 (1-877-PETSBEST). Thank you again, as always, for the opportunity to serve you and your pets!

The Magic Bullet Fund

Angela Klein — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Inspired by the love of a Siberian named Bullet, the Magic Bullet Fund is writer and editor Laurie Kaplan's labor of love for the dog who "graced (her) life for 12 years, 2 months and a day."

At 9 years of age, Bullet was diagnosed with late stage multicentric B-cell lymphoma. "I was horrified, terrified, and determined that I would not lose Bullet without a fight," Laurie writes on the Magic Bullet Fund website.

During the course of his treatment, the veterinarian who provided chemotherapy treatments for Bullet insisted Laurie write a book to help others who have dogs with cancer. Help Your Dog Fight Cancer, the result of that encouragement, quickly became a preferred resource for pet owners facing this difficult and often overwhelming disease.

Coinciding with the book's publication, Laurie founded the Magic Bullet Fund to help people who have dogs with cancer but cannot afford to pay for treatment. "I often thought about how very lucky I was to be able to pay for Bullet's treatment and how devastated I would have felt if I could not," she said.

"The Magic Bullet Fund is about giving every dog the chance he or she deserves to survive cancer," Laurie said. "At best, it is about beating cancer. At least, it is about giving people and their dogs more time together - more time to create a few more precious memories." Bullet survived his battle with cancer and lived until he was nearly 14 when Laurie lost him to renal failure.

Because canine cancer treatment ranges on average between $600 and $6,000, the Magic Bullet Fund connects donors and potential donors with dogs and their families who need help. A secondary mission to help heighten public awareness about canine cancer through educational efforts is included in the organization's mission statement. First and foremost, however, "the fund's mission is to provide cancer treatment for dogs whose caretakers are unable to provide treatment - dogs who would not have cancer treatment at all without our assistance," Laurie said.

Learn more about the Magic Bullet Fund and how you can help make a difference at www.themagicbulletfund.org.

Working with the Magic Bullet Fund is one of several efforts by Pets Best to help pets and pet owners who are dealing with cancer. Visit www.petcancerfoundation.org for more information and a special offer with a veterinary oncologist.

Pet Cancer Foundation

Angela Klein — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Lifesaving.
How The Pet Cancer Foundation is
Working to Help Fight Cancer.

Every year, millions of pets are lost to cancer. Leukemia, lymphoma, bone cancer and mammary gland cancer all claim the lives of our beloved pets.

Many tireless efforts are underway, including the work of the Pet Cancer Foundation, a cooperative venture to help pet owners understand and manage cancer and cancer fears and provide a resource for free initial cancer consultations through a pet owner's local veterinarian. This resource brings cancer consultation to the pet owner and pet, no matter where they are.

Local veterinarians are also encouraged to visit the Pet Cancer Foundation site www.petcancerfoundation.org to learn how to obtain the free initial consultation from a board-certified veterinary oncologist who will identify what treatments are the most effective for each specific cancer.

Although the Pet Cancer Foundation web site is for pet owners, the consultation can only be provided to a licensed veterinarian. The web site, however, does provide information on cancer in pets for consumers.

Dr. Alice Villalobos, a veterinarian and author who concentrates on cancer and end-of life care, says that this free consultation can be lifesaving.

"All too often, cancer treatments for pets do not happen because of the hassle of taking your pet elsewhere, sometimes requiring driving long distances for specialized treatments that may be needed weekly or even more often," she says. "With this process, many cancer treatments can be successfully implemented, monitored and adapted by a person's own veterinarian with the benefit of a cancer specialist assisting in every step."

In the broader perspective, this initiative was created to keep pets living longer, healthier lives and enable them to bring joy to their families, according to Dr. Jack Stephens, president and founder of Pets Best Insurance. "Our mission at Pets Best is to provide reimbursement for the best pet care possible, which includes cancer treatments."

The Pet Cancer Foundation is a cooperative venture supported by Pets Best Insurance, Oncura Partners and the Morris Animal Foundation. Last year, Pets Best also pledged $1 million to the Morris Animal Foundation (MAF) Cure Canine Cancer campaign in an effort to eradicate cancer in dogs in the next 10 - 20 years. For this, Dr. Jack Stephens and Pets Best Insurance have been honored and recognized by MAF as a "Canine Cancer Campaign SuperHero," joining Pfizer Animal Health as the second $1 million contributor to the campaign.

Weathering the Summertime with Your Pets

Angela Klein — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Weathering the Good Ol' Summertime with Your Pets

As spring turns to summer, dogs and cats everywhere are beginning to feel the heat! To help you and your pets get through the summer, we've compiled a list of helpful tips to keep your four-legged friends healthy and happy.

You've heard it before, but we'll say it again. Never, never, never leave your pet in the car, even for just a few minutes. Temperatures in cars can reach 120 degrees quickly when the weather is warm. Because dogs and cats don't perspire and can only release heat through their paw pads and by panting, pets left in hot cars are at risk for heat exhaustion, heat stroke, brain damage or death.

Another temptation to avoid is putting dogs in the back of pick-up trucks. Flying debris, accidents or even sudden turns or stops all pose threats to dogs left in this vulnerable position. Keep your dog inside or in a secured crate in the bed of the truck.

Plant food, fertilizer and insecticide are all common during the summer but pose another hazard to pets. Be sure to read the directions carefully and keep your pets away from fertilized areas and especially away from bags of fertilizer, insecticide and plant food, which can be fatal if ingested. Watch out, too, for the 700+ varieties of plants that can produce physiologically active or toxic substances that are harmful to your pets.

Check with your veterinarian to see if your pets should be taking heartworm prevention medication. Transmitted by mosquitoes, heartworm disease can be fatal in both dogs and cats.

Other quick reminders for a stress-free summer:

Provide plenty of water and shade for your pets at all times.
Make early preparations for vacation travel whether leaving your pet at home or bringing them with you.
Use flea and tick treatments recommended by your veterinarian.
Limit exercise for older dogs and dogs with thick coats to early morning hours to reduce the risk of heat exhaustion and stroke.
Do your pets a favor and remember that loud events, such as the 4^th of July and music concerts, can be stressful for pets.

If your pet starts showing signs of heat exhaustion and/or stroke - heavy panting, glazed eyes, a rapid pulse, unsteadiness, vomiting or a deep red or purple tongue - immediately work to lower his body temperature by applying cool, not cold, water over his body, cold towels or ice packs to your pet's head, neck and chest only and let him lick ice cubes or drink small amounts of water. Heat exhaustion and stroke can be fatal to your pet, so always remember to check with your veterinarian and when in doubt, visit a hospital immediately.

Have a safe and happy summer!

Supplemental Wellness Care Option

Angela Klein — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Supplemental Wellness Care Option Offers Additional Benefits

Wondering if routine care is covered with your accident and illness policy? It is if you choose BestWellness in addition to your plan. BestWellness is optional coverage you can add to your Pets Best policy that helps you budget for annual exams, teeth cleaning, routine tests and more.

With no deductible and $440 in annual benefits for dogs and more than $500 in annual benefits for cats, BestWellness is specifically chosen by our policyholders who regularly take their pets to the vet.

Half of the annual BestWellness benefits may be claimed within the first six months of each policy period. After six consecutive months as a policyholder, the full 100% of the BestWellness benefit is available for use.

Learn more about BestWellness or call a Pets Best Customer Service Representative today at 1-877-PETSBEST or 1-877-738-7237 to add BestWellness to your policy and help with expenses for future routine visits.