Category: Pets

Ask the Vet With Dr. Kris: Dr. Kris Answers March’s questions

In February, we launched our new “Ask the Vet With Dr. Kris” segment. once a month, we’ll post a reminder for you to post your questions for Dr. Kris. He’ll answer as many of them as he can each month, and I’ll publish his answers in a subsequent post.

Dr. Kristopher Chandroo is a veterinarian, scientist, photographer, animal welfare advocate, and creator of stress to Success (STS): The vital guide to Medicating Your Feisty, Grumpy or Reluctant Cat.  Dr. Kris wants  your cats to be twenty years old. and counting! and he wants to provide medication and therapy to them in a way that respects the bond between cat and human.

Here are Dr. Kris’ answers to some of your questions asked in March. If your question didn’t get answered here, Dr. Kris will answer them on his own website, in the future. subscribe to his updates so you’ll be notified when the answers are published.

Cat defecating outside the litter box

My fiance wants to get rid of my 17 year old male cat Ruford because he has resorted to defecating by the door of his “man cave.” I have had Ruford for 12 years as I adjusted to life alone. The vet ran the whole gamut of tests when he had diarrhea, and everything was negative and normal. The conclusion was IBS, and he takes probiotics with his canned food treat at night. He drinks well and eats better now. He even plays more with the other 2 cats (female). He clings to me when I get home from work (especially if I am hurting), and stays with me. I love Ruford and am fighting to keep him despite his crapping at the man cave door. (He will sometimes use Bella’s puppy pads to poop, but he always only uses the litter box to pee.) Please help us! Ruford is special, and I want to keep him until it’s his time… (Julie Blaskie)

Dr. Kris:

Hi Julie!

Let’s talk about your cat. then about your fiancé.

We have 3 things to fix.

Many times our cats hide what is happening on the inside. They hide their problems.

They do things we don’t understand, and hide things all the time.

But not Ruford. He’s telling you what the problem is. He’s speaking in clear terms, and saying it very loud.

He pee’s in the box, but poops outside of it. but he’ll poop on the puppy pads.

How a cat pee’s in the box is different than how they poop in the box. The pressure on their back, hips, legs and feet are all different when they poop.

When you have a 17 years old cat, that pee’s in the box, but not poop, it’s typically because it hurts when they poop in the box. They are arthritic, and they avoid the litter box.

They don’t have to limp. They don’t have to howl or cry in pain. It doesn’t matter if they pooped in the box just fine before and now they don’t. It doesn’t matter if their X-rays look normal. They will still eat and drink and be arthritic. They can still have their normal personality and be arthritic or in pain. They can still poop in the box on their better days, but look to poop elsewhere on their bad days.

You didn’t mention what type of pain you have Julie, but you don’t have to. maybe it’s physical, maybe it’s something else. I don’t need to know which one.

But you know those days when you hurt?

Anyone with chronic pain knows what it’s like.

Other people might not have a clue based on how you look on the outside. but you know what you feel on the inside. and they have no idea what it takes just to keep going. just to stay functioning on the outside. When your inside is on fire.

So you gotta look into 3 things.

A) assess your cat for arthritis and treat it.

B) Reversing Litter Box Aversion (it’s what happens when they don’t like the box anymore).

C) help the fiancé.

What did we say about cats earlier? many times our cats hide what is happening on the inside. They hide their problems. They do things we don’t understand.

Well, us guys are the same.

“Get rid of the cat” could mean:

“I’m feeling disrespected that the cat is @#$# next to my favorite place in the house”.
“I always tell you that there is poop here but you don’t do anything about it”.
“I think he’s doing it for spite – the cat doesn’t like me and it’s my house too”
“I had a cat that did that once, and he had a bad disease or I couldn’t fix it myself so I don’t want to even go there”.

There isn’t anything wrong about feeling this way.

But these are emotional responses, and not technical responses.

So you could tell him that Ruford is arthritic and he has litter box aversion, but he might not respond to that. Those are just the technical reasons of why he is pooping outside the man cave.

But you could tell him about the people that don’t understand you when you are hurting. The world can be very unkind to people with chronic pain. “Why don’t you just get over it” people can say. “Just pull up your bootstraps and if you just try and have willpower you will get better”.

Doesn’t work that way, does it?

Ruford is the same. He can’t just pull up his bootstraps and make it better.nullnull

7 signs That may indicate A medical problem

By Lisa Perri DosPassos
May 5, 2017
The field of canine physical rehabilitation has grown tremendously over the past 20 years. lots of veterinarians and pet owners have come to find rehab therapists as useful resources when pets are injured, recovering from surgery or having difficulty with mobility.

A canine rehab professional may touch upon areas similar to what, as humans, we seek out in physical therapy, massage therapy, athletic training and personal trainers.

Professional pet dog groomers and stylists are also useful resources for pet owners when it pertains to their pet’s health and well–being. The groomer has a special opportunity to see a pet dog regularly and can alert an owner when they notice infections in the skin, ears, eyes or even the dreaded anal glands. Lumps and bumps, weight loss and body condition are just some of the things that groomers take notice of when working with a dog.

When a pet dog is experiencing pain or discomfort, they may show subtle signs that can be easy to miss. A pet dog that has pain is certainly a lot more likely to display unwanted behaviors when handled. below is a list of some common signs and indications that a pet dog may be experiencing pain, weakness or discomfort.
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Rounded or “roached” topline

Everyone loves a great straight topline on a dog. If a pet dog presents with a curved, rounded or even “pointed” back, a red flag must go up. As dogs age, they can lose muscle mass, strength and flexibility through the spine, contributing to poor spinal posture. A rounded spine may also be an indication that there is trouble somewhere else in the body, such as a painful limb.

Avoidance of shifting weight to a limb

As you lift each leg of a dog, they shift their weight through the other 3 limbs. If you observe a pet dog that consistently does not want to off-load a limb, take a closer look. The limb on the opposite side may be painful or too weak to support the dog. This is common with conditions such as hip dysplasia and arthritis.

Inability to stand for several minutes

A fit pet dog must be able to stand upright for 3 minutes or more. You can probably think of several dogs that regularly want to lie down when they are on the table. This is not only frustrating, but is also concerning. Why does this pet dog need to lie down so quickly? Obesity, poor conditioning, painful joints, chronic disease or injury may be to blame.

Reacting when touched at the waist

We have all encountered that pet dog that will whip around and snap when you touch or hold them around the waist. This may be the result of under–socialization or poor exposure to being handled as a young dog. Or this can be an indication that the pet dog has pain in their hips, back or hind legs. A common muscle injury in the hind end is a strain of the Iliopsoas muscle group. “Guarding” the area of the waist is often seen in a pet dog with an iliopsoas strain. look for twitching or stiffening of the muscles around this area when touched to give you a better idea if this is a problem with pain versus behavior.

Not wanting to step front legs forward

A pet dog with a painful shoulder, neck or rib may not be comfortable having their front leg moved forward. Dogs naturally carry 60 percent of their weight through the front end. any front end lameness or pain must be taken seriously.

Strong dislike of having feet/nails touched

This may yield an eye–roll, after all, what pet dog enjoys having their feet touched? The take–away here is to be on the lookout for a pet dog that has a particular foot or toe that they strongly protest having touched. Or a pet dog that previously did not fuss about their feet but now reacts when handled. Arthritis of the wrists and toes can be a sneaky culprit, and may make it very painful for a toe or foot to be flexed, pressed or squeezed.

Asymmetry in the limbs or muscles

As a groomer, you have an eye for balance and symmetry when clipping and trimming the coat. Be aware of any imbalance, asymmetry or visual difference in the muscles or posture of the limbs of the dog. A pet dog that is not using a limb appropriately will likely have smaller muscles on that side, or may hold the leg in a different position when standing, sitting or lying down. Knee ligament injuries are very common, and normally lead to muscle wasting on the injured leg.

Dogs are often stoic creatures, and do a good job of adapting to painful changes in their bodies. Whether from injury, disease or changes from aging, dogs can hide their pain very well. As their groomer, you manage and touch a pet dog in ways that their owners may not. You are a useful part of their health and well–being, in addition to their good looks. If you notice any signs of pain or discomfort in a dog, encourage their owners to have the pet dog taken a look at by their veterinarian and their rehab therapist for a full evaluation. ✂

Lisa DosPassos, OTR/L, CCRP, is a cannull

How long will My Puppy Poop Worms After Deworming?

This post may include affiliate links. We may earn money or products from the companies discussed in this post.
Keeping your fur baby healthy implies fewer check outs to the vet. Deworming is important if you want to keep your puppy parasite-free.
Fortunately, deworming is a relatively problem-free process that can be accomplished with just a few steps.
Once you have dewormed your puppy, you’ll probably want to know how long your canine will continue to poop worms. Puppies will usually poop worms for 2-3 days after they have been dewormed.
OUR EXPERIENCE: Linus had worms when we brought him home. I can confirm that he stopped pooping worms about 2-3 days after taking deworming medication.
However, you may still find some worms in your puppy’s excrement up to a week after deworming. This is completely normal and ought to not alarm you.
Worms are a common problem for dogs at any stage of life. As a pet parent, it’s essential to understand just how to deal with these pesky parasites. To find out everything you need to know about deworming your puppy, keep reading!

Please contact your veterinarian if your puppy has worms or you plan on deworming your puppy. This site is for home entertainment purposes only and you ought to seek advice from with your veterinarian if you have any health related issues about your canine or puppy.
How Do Puppies get Worms?
Puppies are not just adorable, they are also curious. This implies there are plenty of ways in which your fur baby can become infected with worms.
Transmission From mother To Puppy
It is fairly common for worms to be transmitted from mothers to their puppies. Parasites like roundworms can be transmitted while puppies are still in utero.
They can also be transmitted through a mother’s milk to her puppies. While your puppy is nursing, it can easily contract worms if its mother is infected.
Ingesting Worm Eggs Or Worm Larvae
Puppies like to taste and lick everything. This is just how dogs explore the world around them. Unfortunately, this also implies they ingest plenty of dirt.

Grass, soil, and debris are all possible carriers of worm eggs and larvae. When an infected animal poops, it can leave parasite eggs on various surfaces.
QUICK TIP: This is just one reason why it’s so essential to pick up your pup’s poop (lessen the spread of parasites). If you’re searching for good poop bags our favorite are the earth Rated Poop bags.
Once your puppy comes into contact with these surfaces, it may ingest the worm larvae or eggs and become infected.
Transmission From other Animals
Parasites spread easily from one animal to the next. If you have multiple animals in your household, it is essential to guarantee all of them are dewormed regularly.
Worm eggs can spread from one pet to another through feces, contaminated food, or contaminated surfaces. It is essential to keep your pup from ingesting excrement from other animals. This is the easiest way your canine can become infected.

Fleas
Fleas can carry worm larvae. This implies that if your puppy gets infested with fleas, they are also at risk for a worm infestation.
Keep a lookout for fleas and have a regular grooming schedule to guarantee that your puppy is protected against these pests.
QUICK TIP: all of our guide canine puppies are on flea medication. We’ve used topical and ingestible flea meds. We currently give our pups Nexgard Chewables to keep the fleas and ticks away.
Fur
Puppies like to groom themselves. However, in the process of licking their fur, they may ingest parasite eggs.
As long as your puppy is interacting with the environment, they are bound to come into contact with dirt. It’s for that reason essential to keep your pooch bathed and clean. This will reduce the risk of your pup carrying worm eggs or larvae on their coat.

QUICK RECOMMENDATION: We bathe our puppies about once a month using Burt’s Bees Puppy Shampoo.
Signs That Your Puppy has Worms
Catching a worm infestation early on can save you lots of trouble down the road. Untreated infections can cause health problems so it is important to keep a lookout for the following cautioning signs.
Worms In Your Puppy’s Poop
When your puppy has worms, you are likely to see them in her excrement. When parasites accumulate in the intestines, some of them will be passed when your canine has a bowel movement.
It is also not uncommon to find worms in your puppy’s vomit if they are infected. Pooping or vomiting worms is one of the essential indicators that your puppy is infected. However, not all parasites are visible to the naked eye.
Bloating
Bloating is a common symptom found in puppies infected with worms. Bloatingnullnull

Litter Lifter Litter scoop Assortment champion

Congratulations, Janine, Lois Curcio as well as Melanie Bridenstine! You’re the winners of a Litter Lifter™ litter scoop assortment.

Look for an e-mail from Ingrid*.

*Winners were chosen by random drawing. Winners requirement to provide a physical address to which the prize will be mailed within 72 hours of receipt of notification e-mail. If this info is not received, an alternating champion will be chosen.

 

Ingrid King

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3 comments on Litter Lifter Litter scoop Assortment Winner

Melanie Bridenstine says:

November 30, 2013 at 2:51 pm

I like this scoop. The original Litter-Lifter is amazing. I utilized to spend about 10 minutes sifting with my 2 huge, deep litter boxes full of valuable feline Litters. Now, it takes me less than 2 minutes! What a fantastic product!

Reply

Melanie Bridenstine says:

November 22, 2013 at 11:40 am

Wow! say thanks to you so much! I can’t wait to try out our new Litter Lifter!

Reply

Janine says:

November 22, 2013 at 10:00 am

Thank you so much! I can’t wait to provide them a try. I do a great deal of poop scooping in my house.

Reply

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What Is A Red golden Retriever?

This post may contain affiliate links. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post.
If you are looking for a golden retriever as a new pet, you are not alone. They are the fourth most popular dog breed in the united states (as of the year 2020).
Perhaps in your search for the perfect pup to adopt, you have come across the red golden retriever.
Often just called a red retriever, these are a natural variation within the golden retriever family, but with a striking dark red coat.
There are a few other things that set a red retriever dog apart from a more traditional golden retriever, such as size and coat, but when it comes to finding an intelligent, trainable, loyal, and friendly pet, a red-haired golden retriever is just as wonderful as the lighter golden retriever pups that you are probably more familiar with.

Read on for everything you need to know about these dark red golden retrievers.
What Is A Red golden Retriever?
A red golden retriever is a natural variation within the golden retriever breed, but with a darker coat than most golden retrievers. With a distinctive red hue, the coat is described as mahogany.

Officially, there are only three colors of golden retriever: golden, light golden, and dark golden. The red retriever falls into the last of these categories but stands out because of the clearly red hue.
For this reason, red retrievers are considered abnormalities and therefore ineligible to participate in dog shows.
Unlike other golden retrievers, whose coats have a tendency to lighten or darken as they age, a red golden retriever will retain its mahogany hair color throughout its life (though you may notice a few gray hairs).
They have the same dark brown or black nose, eyes, lips, and nails as the majority of golden retrievers.
Just like other goldens, their nose and other features can have a tendency to lighten to a pink color in cold temperatures or when they don’t get enough sunlight. This is a natural fading of the pigment common to goldens.

This red coloring is a natural genetic variation within the golden retriever breed. However, the genes that give this color are recessive, and therefore it is also a relatively rare color to see.
OUR EXPERIENCE: Over our lifetime we’ve had three different shades of Golden. Our family golden Retriever, Kiko was darker and probably would have been considered a Red Retriever. Our second golden Retriever, Raven was almost white in color typically referred to as an English cream golden retriever, platinum retriever, or white retriever. Finally, our lil’ tank was right in the middle of the color chart and was a lighter shade of gold.
Breed History
Golden retrievers were bred as gun dogs in the Scottish Highlands in the mid-19th century when wildfowl hunting was a very popular sport.
The Scottish elite did not think their existing retriever breeds were quite right for the task of retrieving the fowl.
Improved weapons meant that the retrieving dogs needed to range further to collect game, and they had to be able to retrieve the game from both land and water, as the hunting grounds were swiped with marsh ponds and rivers.

The man primarily responsible for developing the breed was the 1st Baron Tweedmouth, Dudley Marjoribanks, who had a grand estate near Glen Affric in Scotland.
The breed is a mix of a Tweed water spaniel (now extinct), Irish setter, and bloodhound, which was developed over a period of about 50 years.
Golden retrievers were first accepted by the Kennel Club in 1903 and then exhibited in 1908. They became officially recognized as the breed they are today in 1911.
It took another 14 years for the dog to become recognized in the United States, having been taken there by the sons of Dudley Marjoribanks, after which the breed quickly became popular.
The mahogany coat variation that we see from red retrievers from the Irish setter, also known as a red setter, in which mahogany is a common color.
Differences between golden Retrievers and Red golden Retrievers
While the main difference between conventional golden retrievers and red golden retrievers is their color, there are a few other differences to be aware of.

However, it is worth noting that these differences don’t stem from the same genetic markers that cause red retrievers to have their mahogany color.
Rather, red retrievers tend to come from hunting lines, while many other goldens are bred to be pets, service dogs, or show dogs. As a result, different characteristics have become dominant.
Red retrievers tend to be slightly smaller and lighter in weight than other goldens.
Male red retrievers will weigh at the lower end of the 65 to 75-pound range that is conventional for golden retrievers and will be 22-23 inches tall, while conventional goldens typically grow an extra inch or two.
Female red retrievers will again be at the lower end of the 55- to 65-pound range that is conventional for golden retrievers, and tend to be 20 to 2nullnull

Darwin’s offers Raw Prescription diet plan for Cats

We are huge fans of Darwin’s raw food. it’s currently one of Allegra as well as Ruby’s preferred foods. You can checked out our evaluation of Darwin’s here. Today, I’d like to introduce you to a unique offering in the raw food market: Darwin’s Intelligent Design™, a prescription diet plan for cats with kidney disease.

The right diet plan for cats with kidney disease

There’s so much misinformation available about what cats with kidney illness should eat. many traditional vets will suggest a prescription diet plan such as Hill’s k/d for cats who show even a slight deviation of typical kidney values. That’s since there are research study trials – may of them sponsored by the extremely business that offer these diets – that have shown that restricted protein diets can prolong renal function. However, there is much more to feeding a feline with compromised kidney function than just restricting protein. In fact, protein limitation may not be suggested up until the extremely final stages of the disease. up until then, the consequences of making bad dietary options in these cats can be dire.

There is no single diet plan that is right for all cats with kidney disease

Multiple factors are important when it comes to diet plan for cats with kidney disease. wetness is critical. A great diet plan for these cats should contain extra potassium, reduced sodium as well as phosphorus levels, as well as increased omega-3 fatty acid levels. since protein limitation effects healthy body condition, a great diet plan for these cats should contain high high quality protein. When protein is inadequate, cats begin to loose muscle mass mass. Feline veterinarian Elizabeth Colleran explains in detail what cats with kidney illness should be eating, as well as it may not be what your vet is telling you.

Darwin’s Intelligent Design™ Kidney support Formula

Darwin’s offers a specialized formula designed to provide additional support to cats dealing with kidney disease. These extremely palatable as well as nutritious meals utilize only hormone-free, antibiotic-free, as well as pesticide-free meats, without any grains, added fillers or chemical preservatives. key benefits of this diet plan include

Appropriate protein levels

Restricted Phosphorus

Included natural Phosphorus binder Chitosan

Increased calcium levels (minimize P absorption)

Enhanced long chain Omega 3 Fatty Acids for glomerular health

Increased Vitamin B levels to replace those lost in the urine

Added Botanicals as well as Extracts

Darwin’s Intelligent Design™ Kidney support formula needs a prescription from your veterinarian.

For more information, see Darwin’s website.

FTC Disclosure: The mindful feline is a participant in Darwin’s affiliate program. This means that if you choose to purchase with any type of of our links, we get a little commission. We only spread the word about products as well as services we’ve either utilized or would utilize ourselves.

Ingrid King

Table of Contents
The right diet plan for cats with kidney disease
There is no single diet plan that is right for all cats with kidney disease
Darwin’s Intelligent Design™ Kidney support Formula

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4 comments on Darwin’s offers Raw Prescription diet plan for Cats

ANGELIKA PIATT says:

June 2, 2020 at 2:48 pm

Is this food truly helpful? My feline has kidney issues as well as I don’t understand witch food to select for her. Please assist me if you can say thanks to you.

Reply

Ingrid says:

June 2, 2020 at 4:30 pm

This article explains what to feed a feline with kidney disease:

Reply

Carol McKenzie says:

August 13, 2018 at 12:05 pm

My holistic vet prescribed this for my senior ckd girl. There are no samples, you have to purchase in 10lb increments so you’re costs over $70 to try it (I failed to remember the total, sorry). Tessie didn’t care for it so it languished in my freezer for a number of months. When she stopped eating most of her favorites, i dug out tge Darwin & fed her little amounts from my finger. Not ideal, however i understood i was getting great stuff into her. She growled when i did it for as well long so I’d stop. I don’t do everything the time, however when her weight drops or I understand she’s not eating enough, I supplement her diet plan with it. I desire she’d eat it voluntarily! Day after she eats it she seems to be more active ?

Reply

Maureen says:

July 30, 2017 at 9:58 pm

I was so excited when I heard that Darwin’s would offer a diet plan for kidney cats.I suspect many vets will not provide the prescriptions needed. most vets talk about raw diets as akin to poisoning your cat.null

Cat friendly Handling: Your cat is worthy of a positive Experience at the Veterinary clinic

guest post by Ellen Carozza, LVT

Thanks to the internet, cats are the most popular pet, yet they receive less medical care than their canine counterparts. join me and the conscious cat in this two part series on what actually happens when your cat is handled in the veterinary clinic, and how you and your cat can have that positive experience you’ve always wanted.

But first I need to take a step back and discuss a few things…

Handling practices for cats

One of the top comments I see in numerous of my pet related messages on THE cat LVT is how so numerous people don’t like how their cat is handled at the veterinary clinic.

In my 20+ years of being in veterinary medicine, I’ve seen quite the evolution of animal restraint in practice. So why are our dealing with practices for cats still so primitive? Is it because we don’t care to acquire even more knowledge and relocation forward in our standards of care? Is it worry of the animal itself? Or is it because “we’ve always done it this way?”

As pet guardians want to be much more involved in their pets’ care, and as we treat the newer generation of pets, our industry needs to make much needed changes both in terms of treating clients and to keep a practice thriving. While these changes are happening, it feels like they are happening at a snail’s pace.

As veterinary professionals, we are dedicated to offering outstanding care: care and compassion that is paid for by you, the client.

Veterinary medicine is categorized as a “for profit” industry, as animals by law are considered personal home for which you elect us to offer medical care. Yet I see on numerous Facebook forums for veterinary professionals how anti-cat they can be. how is this possible? we all work in this field for various reasons. To see the negative comments about our feline clients can be disheartening and downright embarrassing at times.

How can we as caregivers boast of our love for animals and then speak of them in a negative manner? I see cats labeled as “demons”, “aggressive”, “awful”, and numerous four-letter words that don’t need to be repeated. This is not only unprofessional and abhorrent behavior on the professionals’ part, it also implies that they either do not understand the language of the cat, or they really don’t want to learn and work with them.

I’m not a fan of working with dogs. I never have been and I’m not scared of admitting it. I don’t understand their language, and their presence can be too much for me to deal with physically. I grew up with dogs. My family still has them as pets. I just choose not to work with them. So what did I do? I found a practice that was exclusive to the species I wanted to work with: cats. There is nothing wrong with admitting that you don’t choose to work with a particular species, but if you have made the choice to work at a mixed practice, you are expected to be kind, compassionate, and understanding regardless of what species your client is.

Understanding cats sets up a much more successful vet visit

Learning how a client acts and reacts in a medical setting can help set up a much more successful visit. We as professionals need to make sure we are prepared in advancement to make sure that happens. You as a client need to be truthful about how your cat has behaved at previous veterinary check outs so we can anticipate your and your cat’s needs accordingly.

The feline client has a distinct body language and can arrive at the clinic already stressed out. Those of us working the veterinary field need to learn how to understand the clear signals cats give us, and adjust our behavior accordingly to be able to work with them safely. In reality, these cats are scared, and are acting out in a manner completely suitable to a situation they did not willingly put themselves in. once that is understood, speaking their language gets easier, and they are quite gratifying to work with.

However, we do need your help. We need to know if your cat prefers certain staff members. We need to know if your cat needs or has been given an anxiolytic (medication to ease anxiety before the visit) in the past or might benefit from such medication, or if your cat needs to be sedated to handle.

Outdated restraint and anesthesia techniques

Unfortunately, the American Veterinary medical association (AVMA) still requires the veterinary professional to learn outdated restraint/anesthesia techniques for companion animals. Restraint methods such as scruffing, and even worse “tanking” or “boxing”, (putting the cat into an oxygen tank and running anesthetic gas into the tank to sedate them) are not only unsafe, but are considered outdated, cruel and unnecessary dealing with methods. They are also risky for the staff performing the task.

Not only does scruffing put harmful tension on the cervical vertebrae, it can be uncomfortable for cats with arthritis and skin ailments. Inullnull

AKC government Relations Department: effective Advocacy: how to Positively influence legislation That affects You

By AKC
August 31, 2019
Professional groomers make family pets look and feel wonderful, and they also offer essential services that contribute to the animal’s health. but it doesn’t stop there.

Customers may request creative services or ask that their dogs be groomed to resemble a particular “celebrity” dog. Expectations are high, and the pressure on groomers to deliver top results on wiggling, howling and often uncooperative family pets has never been greater.

In this age of instant communication, even the best–run grooming service can be negatively affected by a dissatisfied customer who articles a grievance on social media. The issue may be correctable, such as a groom job that didn’t exactly match the owner’s vision, but what about an accident that affects the safety or health of a pet?  A distressed customer may contact the press, the story goes viral and a tragic occurrence that affected a single pet is perceived as a community–wide problem.  

As discussed in a previous article, when a pet is injured, well–meaning people want answers and they want assurances that it will never happen again. This can result in the introduction of legislation that seeks to regulate groomers.

Not only is expanded governmental oversight of groomers being discussed across the US, boosted taxation of pet–related services may be considered as a profits source. According to the American Pet products Association, Americans are spending a lot more on family pets than ever before. In 2018, pet owners spent a lot more than $72 billion on their pets, exceeding the previous year by a lot more than $3 billion. a lot more than $6 billion was spent on services such as boarding and grooming1. These and other aspects have brought pet care services under boosting governmental scrutiny. 
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In recent years, several states and municipalities have proposed pet groomer regulations. Some proposals sought to establish groomer certification requirements based on guidelines for appeal beauty parlors and barbers. Such proposals do not consider the special needs of pet groomers. Further, because there are substantially fewer pet grooming services than appeal salons, far less profits would be generated by fees charged to groomers. Without sufficient funding, regulatory programs cannot be fairly and efficiently implemented, managed or maintained.  

Bringing better options to the Table

“Bijou’s Law” in new jersey is among the highest–profile proposals that seek to regulate pet groomers. As first introduced, this legislation would have required the state to create a new groomer regulatory program from scratch, at significant cost and of undetermined efficiency. 

AKC government Relations (AKC GR) and other animal advocacy groups worked to amend A3044, the NJ Assembly version of the bill, so that it is fair and benefits both groomers and pet owners. As amended, this bi–partisan bill creates a state board of grooming experts to set requirements for health and safety training, and promote continuing groomer education in conjunction with high quality training programs, including AKC’s S.A.F.E. grooming Program.  

As of press time, the companion bill (S2154) is awaiting a Senate committee hearing. AKC GR is working on amendments to the Senate version of the bill to make it identical to A0344. Please check for current information and updates on Bijou’s Law, NJ A3044/S2154, at www.akcgr.org.  

The AKC S.A.F.E. grooming Program was developed in consultation with experienced grooming professionals. This easily–accessible, detailed program supplies an exceptional resource to groomers who wish to obtain certification from a recognized authority and for governmental agencies that seek to carry out fair, science–based and cost–effective oversight of grooming businesses.

“The safety of our canine companions is a crucial worry for owners,” said mark Dunn, senior Vice president of Registration and customer Development, American Kennel Club. “The course supplies groomers with access to a lot more information and safety procedures that go above and beyond the standard.”

Getting in front of the Issues

Grooming professionals are urged to take action on issues that may affect their businesses. get involved before laws and guidelines are discussed or introduced in your state or community. Take the lead, offer options and establish yourself as a subject matter expert in your industry.

When advocating publicly, there is no substitute for functional knowledge. get to know the issues thoroughly, focus on certain areas of worry and offer viable options that address those concerns. expect questions from legislators or the public. Be prepared to answer those questions, supply data and share anecdotes to emphasize your point.

For example, if you decide to propose or advocate for groomer safety training, anticipate that lawmakers may wantnull

12 cool things science Taught us about Dogs This Year

12 cool things science Taught us about Dogs This Year

Last updated on July 13, 2017 By Puppy Leaks 3 comments
From assisting kids with anxiety to avoiding people who are jerks to their owners, here’s 12 cool things science taught us about dogs this year.

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1. Dogs Can be Soothed by classic Music

There’s new evidence that shows classic music can assist soothe dogs. Dogs in a kennel atmosphere were checked with & without the existence of classic music, and when the music was played there was a great deal less barking and pacing. For their next research study the researchers are going to try different genres of music to see exactly how soothing classic is versus others.

2. “Puppy pet dog Eyes” create a strong Bond

When your pet dog preserves eye contact with you you’re both creating additional oxytocin – the “love hormone” connected with attachment and nurturing. This is the exact same reaction that moms have with their babies, and researchers suggest that dogs may have gotten their method into our hearts and lives by tapping into this type of bonding.

3. Our Dogs Can tell When We’re Lying

New research study has shown that dogs pick up cues when it pertains to taking care of distrustful humans, and that they do seem to understand when we’re lying. The researched examined 34 dogs with different humans performing different tasks. The dogs started to show preferences for people who were dependable versus the ones who were not providing out benefits like the others.

They decide whether to comply with human commands by reading the reliability of the person. Dogs have a lot more advanced social intelligence than we thought. This social intelligence progressed selectively in their long life history with humans. – Akiko Takaoka Kyoto university researcher

Does Your pet dog understand When You’re Lying?

4. You Can’t throw a pet dog Off Your path with Pepper

Despite that old myth you cannot throw a Bloodhound off your path by utilizing pepper. earlier this year when 2 convicts escaped a NY prison it was reported that they had been utilizing pepper to throw the browse dogs off their trail. While utilizing a distracting odor may confuse a pet dog for minute or two after that they’re ideal back on your path again.

5. Dogs may assist stop Diabetes in Children

Earlier this year 3000 kids who were part of a diabetes prevention research study assisted researchers discover that kids with dogs were at a much lower danger of developing type 1 diabetes.

We can show from previous studies that exposure to dogs avoids airway inflammations,” states research study professor Suvi Virtanen of THL. “The evidence we have now gained points to a considerable protective impact in relation to type 1 diabetes, too. The results are special on a around the world scale, and additional research study evidence is still needed to support our findings.

6. Dogs avoid people who react Negatively to Their Owner

Researchers discovered that dogs are much a lot more socially intelligent than when thought, they’re able to pick up social cues as they refer to their owners. These third celebration interactions were when believed to only refer to humans and other primates. In the research study the researchers discovered that dogs avoid people who are jerks to their owners – even when being used food.

7. Dogs & Humans Can quote a Dog’s size by Their Growl

Your dogs bark may be able to technique somebody into believing they’re much bigger than they are, but their growl doesn’t. We’ve all hear those small dogs with truly big barks, but apparently they can’t disguise their grown in the exact same way. Humans and dogs can predictably quote a dogs size based on their growl.

Is your dogs bark bigger than his bite? turns out his growl isn’t deceiving anyone.

8. Untrained Dogs comply with Our Gaze

Many dogs will comply with our look when it pertains to toys or food, but research study has discovered that they comply with our eyes even when we’re just staring off into space. They checked 154 border Collies & discovered that even the young or untrained dogs were showing the ability to comply with a humans look at different objects and places. The research study discovered that the a lot more training a pet dog had the a lot more they were likely to look back at the human deal with rather than gaze off into the distance with the human.

9. Dogs assist kids With Anxiety

We’ve understood that dogs have many health and wellness benefits such as minimizing our blood pressure and assisting with asthma, but a new research study discovered that kids with a pet dog in the house tend to have less anxiety.

But the team at Bassett medical center in new York discovered that just 12 percent of kids with pet dogs checked positive for medical anxiety, compared to 21 percent of kids without a dog. – NBC News

10. The direction of a Dogs Tail Wag (right or left) states a Lot

Researchers discovered that dnull

You won’t forget Sissy once you see her in Westminster obedience ring

With a name like Sassy Sissy it’s shouldn’t be unexpected her owner characterizes her as “a little spitfire.”

Sissy had the “My special Girl” look for her owner Donna Hartwig. photo by Debbie Fields

“That completely captures her personality and her drive,” says owner-handler Donna Hartwig, of big Rock, Ill., of the 10-pound Jack Russell Terrier/Miniature Dachshund/Komondor mix, the lone All-American canine in a field of 24 competing in the third annual Masters Obedience championship at Westminster Monday, Feb. 12.

“I’m not sure on the Komodor part of the DNA test,” says Hartwig, “because that is a pretty large dog. The only thing big about her is her attitude.”

The 5-year-old Sissy’s story boasts a rags-to-riches accent. She was adopted at 7 weeks old from a party in southern Illinois in 2013. “She had that scrawny, little mutt look,” recalls Hartwig, “that said take me home. I just couldn’t leave her behind.”

And ever since, the pair have been on a fast track together.

For Hartwig, a former Newfoundland owner/handler, Sissy represents a substantial departure in size and temperament. “I could probably fit six of her crates into a Newfoundland-size one.”

The little All-American canine brings back the dumbbell during a training exercise. photo by Debbie Fields.

She has always taken her dogs through obedience classes because she saw it as an owner responsibility for keeping them manageable in public. “Sissy was so full of energy that I knew I couldn’t waste any time channeling it in the best direction.”

At 5 months of age, she had Sissy enrolled in beginning obedience, where she received foundation basics. seven months later, the tiny tornado received her Canine good citizen designation on her first birthday.

“At that point, I chose to try my hand at competing with her. First, I thought I would just get a CD title. After three shows and three first places, we accomplished that. Next, we went after the CDX title, which shown a bit much more difficult. The broad jump was particularly challenging for her at shows, although she had no trouble with it in training.”

Enter trainer Dave Parison, of Plano, Ill. With his steadying influence, Hartwig and Sissy were rolling again. three first places later they had a sought after CDX title. “I was having fun, enjoying the challenge and building an incredible bond with this little character. She was trusting me and it simply affirmed that dogs are so amazingly smart, prepared to please us and delight in doing it.”

That count on and bonding process has taken the pair on to UD, UDX titles and to the on-ramp of a sought after OTCH. “I still have to pinch myself,” she says, “I can’t believe three years later we have come this far after thinking I originally just wanted to see if we could achieve one obedience title.” According to the American Kennel Club, Sissy was the fourth mixed-breed canine to earn a UDX obedience title.

Sissy seems to be telling younger – and bigger — housemate, JJ, don’t mess with my toy.

Keeping Sissy sharp is an ongoing process. The two train with Parison weekly and every other week at two clubs 50 minutes away. “It’s essential to train and proof at several places,” Hartwig adds.

Social interaction comes easy for Sissy. She greets family and pals at home in a rollicking fashion. “I taught her a trick of running up my body and into my arms. I have to view her because in some cases she gets so thrilled to see them that she thinks she ought to do the same with them.”

The Westminster experience will be a first for both Hartwig and Sissy. “It’s a big stage out there for this little dog,” says the owner, “but I think she will acclimate fine.”

Sissy lives with Lily, a `13-year-old Dachshund, and JJ, an “obnoxious” young golden Retriever puppy. “She would like me give him back, as he is a pest and always wants to wrestle and play. He can be a bit overpowering at times, but Sissy remains the boss.”

The diminutive dog’s exploits haven’t been limited to the show ring. She appeared in a cameo role in the 2016 romantic comedy film, “Who gets the Dog?” starring Alicia Silverstone, with three other pooches.

It was shot in a Chicago park on a cold January day. “We were expected to be filmed at 7:30 a.m., but soon the time was changed to 9 and finally 3 p.m. So they put us up in a church basement until they were ready for us,” Hartwig recalls. “It was so cold they made me go stand in front of a big heater to keep Sissy warm, even though I had her wrapped in a blanket.”

The 10-pound All-American canine flies over a hurdle during an agility practice

Obedience isn’t the pair’s sole focus. They are also involved in agility competition and trick training. “Obedience is our many challenging. Being animals are like kids, you never know what they are going to do when they get in the ring. in some cases they surprise you with a new rendition of the exercise they had perfected in training class. I acknowledge and praise my dogs when they are doing a behavior I like in everyday living. It helps them know how I like them to behave and results in less corrective training later.”

Will Sissy take a bite out of the big Apple? who knows? But, Hartwig smiles, “The judges are always saying she gets cuteness points when we walk into the obedience ring. I just want this to be a fun, lifetime experience with good memories for both of us.”