Out2News Pets
Hop to it! Join the Fluffy Fun at Southeast Bunfest
Photos by Doreen Poreba
Stuart — The Humane Society of the Treasure Coast is inviting the public to come out for some fluffy fun at its annual Southeast Bunfest event. Slated for Saturday, April 27, the event will be held from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at The Flagler Center of Stuart, 201 SW Flagler Ave.
The cost to attend is $5 per person and kids under 10 years old are free. Tickets may be purchased in advance at https://hstc1.org/southeastbunfest or at the door on the day of the event.
Bunfest is the largest event entirely dedicated to critters in the Southeast United States and many people travel from outside of Florida to attend and participate. Special features of this one-day educational, family-fun event include glamour photos by Critter Pics, a kid zone, a Hop ‘n’ Flop Shop along with a variety of vendors, educational seminars, food trucks, face painting and raffles.
Bunfest also is an opportunity for guests to bring their own rabbit or guinea pig to the event. All critters must be in a pet stroller, carrier or transported in a proper harness at all times. Owners are responsible for the comfort, safety, and care of their animals. A humane society technician will check rabbits for fur lice, mites and ear mites before entering.
“Bunfest is such a special event, as there is something for everyone, including adoptable critters,” said Communications Manager Sarah Fisher. “Even if you don’t have a rabbit or guinea pig, there’s plenty to see and do.”
To participate as a vendor, contact Events Coordinator Alyssa Bean at 772-600-3215 or Events@hstc1.org. To sponsor Bunfest, contact Development Manager Ashton Standish at 772-600-3216 or AStandish@hstc1.org.
Bunfest is generously sponsored by Apex Pavers & Pools, Monterey Animal Clinic, TCPalm, Supreme Petfoods and Oxbow Animal Health.
April Out2News Bark Byte Springtime Pet Safety
Article & Photos by: Robin Hall - Out2News.com
Spring has Sprung and now that you’ve made it through the winter you’ll be anxious to get outside with your pet and start your springtime activities. Everything from gardening to cleaning is on the list as you prepare to get out and about. Your pet will appreciate the nice weather too as he gets to spend more time outdoors. While you may enjoy welcoming this great weather don’t forget about the hazards to your pet that may come with it. A little foresight and prevention can go a long way in having an enjoyable spring.
The best part of spring is the opportunity to replant the garden and make your lawn beautiful. Do a little research before planting your flowers as some springtime plants can be harmful to your pets. Azaleas, rhododendrons and particularly Easter lilies are toxic to pets and can make them sick. Fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides that keep your plants green can also make your pets ill. If possible, find non-chemical solutions for keeping your plants and pets healthy.
Cleaning Up and Home Improvement
Another spring ritual that presents some issues is spring cleaning. Those household cleaners can be harmful to your pet, just like outdoor chemicals. Use them sparingly and store them where inquisitive pets can’t get to them easily. Follow the instructions on the label to make sure you’re using them correctly.
Along with cleaning, home improvement is also popular during this time of year. Be careful of staples, paints, nails and insulation that your pet can swallow or hurt themselves with.
Allergies
Just like people, pets can have allergies too. Pets that are allergic to pollen will have runny noses and will have itchy ears and noses. Skin allergies are possible if your pet gets into some deep vegetation. Itchy skin, licking at the base of the tail and paws are signs of allergies and can cause a rash. Your vet can give you recommendations on what to do if your pet needs relief.
There are at home tests that can help pet parents to identify which culprits are causing a pet's allergies.
Outdoor Pests
Your pet isn’t the only one looking forward to going outside in the spring, so are fleas and ticks. Talk to your vet about preventive measures you can take to make sure your pet isn’t affected by these little creatures. Even if your pet has been treated, they may still carry fleas and ticks in to the house where they can make your life miserable. If you find a tick on your pet, remove it or have a vet take a look.
Where Did You Go?
Now that you’re out and about, make sure your pet can be properly identified if they decide they want to explore on their own. Lost pets need ID tags with current information on them and microchip information needs to be up to date. Keep a current photo of your pet for easy identification or in case you have to make flyers.
Out2News loves the Springtime! It can be fun and exciting, with safety in mind, it can be enjoyable for everyone.
20th Annual Mutt March Festival to Attract Hundreds of Guests and Their Dogs
Who: The Humane Society of the Treasure Coast
What: 20th Annual Mutt March Festival and 5K Race
When: The race starts at 9 a.m. and the festival will be held from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Where: 4100 SW Leighton Farm Ave. in Palm City
The event, which is the humane society’s largest attended community fundraiser, will be held rain or shine. Half of the festival is being held indoors and is free to attend. The cost for the 5K race is $35 per runner.
Event features and activities include a timed 5K race, a morning group walk, vendors, a blessing of the animals, adoptable animals, food trucks, a canine costume contest, AKC Canine Good Citizen Testing, a Kids’ Zone, a lure course, a doggy playground, a pet photo booth and raffles. Those planning to participate in the canine costume contest should be ready to stroll before the judges at noon. Pet owners can also get their pets microchipped for $10.
This event is generously sponsored by Sunny 107.9 FM, Apex Pavers and Pools, Monterey Animal Clinic, Holiday Builders, Camp Bow Wow, Toad Busters, Johnson Honda of Stuart, Ace of Carts, Code Red Roofers and TC Palm.
Media contact: Call or text Doreen Poreba, The PR Czar® Inc., at 772-215-2333.
Fresca
Fresca is a 3 year old, female cat who was found as a stray with her three kittens. Fresca was such a good mommy to her kittens and she is also such a good kitty to her human visitors. She has beautiful markings and a great demeanor for any loving family.
El Dorado
El Dorado is a very sweet and shy pup who was unfortunately surrendered to our shelter when his beloved owner became homeless. He has experience with dogs, cats and farm animals in previous home and has done well with them. El Dorado knows his basic commands and loves to please everybody that he meets!
Photo Credit: PUPS Photos
These pets and many more are available for adoption through the Humane Society of the Treasure Coast main shelter and thrift stores. Normal adoption hours are Monday through Saturday 10:30am to 5pm and Sunday 10:30am to 4pm. Have a question? Give us a call at 772-223-8822. View all available pets online at hstc1.org!
Paws & Claws Gala Raises Impressive Amount for Shelter Animals
In Photo: Co-chairs Shaun Kelly and Kim Izzolo
Photos by Doreen Poreba
Palm City — The Humane Society of the Treasure Coast’s annual Paws & Claws Gala raised more than a quarter million dollars with more donations still coming in. The $275,000 in donations directly benefit the care of the shelter animals. Paws and Claws is the largest event of its kind along the Treasure Coast.
Presented by the Catsman Foundation and held at The Cape Club of Palm City, Fire & Ice was the gala’s theme. The Humane Society welcomed 178 guests, who were greeted by Misty’s Pals, the shelter’s pet therapy dogs and their owners. Upon entering the clubhouse, attendees were immediately drawn into the Fire & Ice theme. The entire bar was illuminated in red hues with images of fire being projected throughout the room. As the event kicked off indoors, attendees were captivated by a grand reveal to showcase the Ice room with all blue, silver and white hues. This was all due to the imagination and creation of Eventmakers International.
Guests also were entertained by three dancers with the Preston Contemporary Dance Theatre who performed on elevated platforms representing the fire and ice elements.
Karen Lynch, The Cape Club’s executive chef, and her team served a varied array of hors d’oeuvres. Guests participated in a silent auction that included 98 packages featuring everything from art, jewelry and dining excursions to spa escapes, vacations and unique experiences. Other attendees participated in a snowball throwing contest to hit a target for a prize. That alone generated nearly $2,400. Musicians and vocalists with The Chase Band kept people dancing all night long!
Volunteers Kimberly Izzolo and Shaun Kelly co-chaired the event and were supported by committee members Katie Astras, Jennifer Campbell, Dixie Church, Diane Coakley, Dana Coates, Carol Dippy, Cindy Greenspan, Kit Haas, Debbie Hansen, Michael Izzolo, Alison Kohloff, Allola McGraw, Monica Olsen, Sarah Ralicki, Alison Shade, Wendy Talbot, Karen Wilkens, Melony Zaravelis and Kay Ziegler.
Additional event support was provided by sponsors Apex Pavers & Pools, Integrity Garage Door Services, JetLoan Capital, Treasure Coast Urgent Care, Transmarine Chartering, The Eberst Law Firm, Stuart Magazine and TC Palm.
In Photo: Glenn & Eilleen Dempsey of the Catsman Foundation, presenting sponsor
In Photo: Pet therapists with their dogs: Sallie Snyder & Jessi Lou, Marsha Mallatt & Lucy Lu, Joan Morrow & Harry, Kristen Baltes & Cece, Janice Kean & Tuxedo, David Dees & Maisy
In Photo: Dana Coates, Eileen Morris, Paola Krakow and Barbara Colello
In Photo: Robin & Walter Bell
Did You Know: Herons and Egrets
Florida is home to a variety of unique birds. A patient birder will find many native and migratory songbirds, birds of prey, and beautifully colored wading birds. To new birders or just people enjoying a nature walk, there will be some species of birds that may look similar. Depending on experience level, identifying birds can be easy, fun, frustrating, or confusing. This is particularly the case for wading birds such as herons and egrets. They are long-legged, long-necked freshwater, coastal birds that even have similar diets. So, how can you tell them apart?
The easiest way to distinguish them is that herons are taller and have more coloration, while egrets are more petite and primarily white; and have decorative plumage for the breeding season. Herons come in colors such as blue-grey, brown, black, and white, while egrets are mainly white, except for the rarer sightings of the Reddish Egret. There are also two different types of herons, diurnal and nocturnal herons. The diurnal herons are longer-necked than the nocturnal herons. Perhaps the well-known heron is the Great Blue Heron, and the most well-known egret is the Great Egret. Both have similar body structures, but the Great Egret is all white with a yellow beak and black legs.
In Florida, there are six different heron species and four different egret species. The herons spotted locally include Great Blue Herons, Green Herons, Tricolored Herons, Little Blue Herons, and the Black-Crowned Night-Herons. The egrets that can be spotted here are Great Egrets, Snowy Egrets, and Cattle Egrets.
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Call us today: 772.834.1890 or email us: rshall@out2news.com
PETS ON PARADE
Out2News Information About Heart Disease
Article & Photo by: Robin Hall - Out2News.com
Did you know that ten percent of pets suffer from heart disease? Like humans, animals experience different forms of heart disease – some that are genetic or age-related, and some that develop from other health issues. Many heart problems cannot be prevented, pets can still enjoy healthy, long lives with early detection of disease, careful management, and a healthy lifestyle. Heart conditions in cats and dogs can be expensive for pet owners to treat and are often fatal for pets. Heart conditions become more common for cats and dogs as they near their senior years.
Heartworm Disease
Heartworms are parasitic worms that infect the heart, lungs, and blood vessels. They are usually transmitted by mosquitos and infect the bloodstream, growing and reproducing over time. As adults, heartworms can cause significant damage to the heart and lungs and may even lead to organ failure. Fortunately, heartworm disease is preventable.
Heart disease: heart disease, looks a little different in dogs and cats than it does in humans. Conditions like coronary heart disease are quite rare in pets. However, pets are susceptible to other forms of heart disease, including the progressive weakening or damaging of the heart’s tissues and congestive heart failure. Older pets are particularly susceptible to this condition.
Heart conditions can be difficult for pet owners to spot, since our pets can’t tell us when they aren’t feeling well.
Common Symptoms, Persistent cough, Difficulty breathing, Low tolerance for exercise, Loss of appetite, Rapid weight loss, Behavioral or mood changes, Fainting or collapsing.
Dilated Cardiomyopathy
One of the most common forms of heart disease in pets is dilated cardiomyopathy. With this disease, the lower chambers of the heart muscle become enlarged, and the heart wall thins. This causes problems with heart not pumping blood effectively. The result is fluid buildup in the lungs followed by heart failure. While the cause of this disease is unknown, there appears to be a genetic component. Certain dog breeds such as Doberman Pinschers, Great Danes, Cocker Spaniels, and Boxers are affected.
Diet Deficiency
In a recent finding by the FDA, there appears to be a diet deficiency that contributes to the emergence of DCM. Noticed by veterinary cardiologists and nutritionists and reported to the FDA. The agency has reported back that non-hereditary DCM seems to be correlated with grain free diets, specifically those with non-soy legumes high on their ingredient lists. These correlations are still being studied, so for now, we recommend avoiding grain free and BEG (boutique exotic, and grain-free) diets.
Whenever possible, purchase pet food that displays the Association of American Feed Control Officials statement that the pet food is nutritionally balanced and complete. If you have questions about your pet’s diet, please contact your veterinarian.
Signs of DCM
Lethargy, Difficulty breathing, coughing, Exercise intolerance, Panting while at rest, Distended abdomen, Collapse/ fainting.
Diagnosis
Detecting early signs of disease is just one reason for your furry friend’s annual wellness exam. During this exam, if your pet’s veterinarian finds pulse deficits, a heart murmur, slow capillary refill time, or muffled breathing sounds, further diagnostic tests may need to confirm heart disease. These tests may include blood work, radiographs, an EKG, and an ultrasound of the heart, or echocardiogram.
Treatment
If your pet is diagnosed with DCM, rest assured that your vet will most likely do everything possible to mitigate the disease and keep your pet as comfortable as possible. Treatment usually consists of using several medications in conjunction to stabilize heart function and minimize any arrhythmias. A diuretic may also be prescribed to help your pet eliminate any excess fluid buildup and improve breathing. A vasodilator may be given to dilate the blood vessels and improve circulation.
Living with DCM
DCM is a progressive disease and there is no cure. Careful medical management and regular progress exams will be necessary to ensure your pet has the best quality of life we can give them. You’ll need to monitor your pet’s general attitude and any progression of symptoms, such as labored breathing, lethargy, and coughing. Your vet will discuss your pet’s prognosis and plan to preserve their quality of life and to keep them as comfortable as possible, for as long as possible.
Taking care of your pet’s heart requires lifelong attention and dedication so pay attention to those furry friends. And get those furry friends some Valentine toys to play with!
772-283-3756
Out2News How to Prevent Common House Accidents
Article by: Robin Hall - Out2News.com
When creating a home that is welcoming and comfortable for both you and your furry friends, it’s important to keep pet safety top of mind. Many household items that we take for granted can pose serious health hazards to our cats and dogs. Thankfully, with increased awareness of these risks and a little pre-planning, you can protect your pets from many common household accidents and injuries. To get you started, we at Out2News.com have put together this room-by-room guide to pet safety:
THE KITCHEN
Your kitchen may be the heart of your home, but unfortunately, it is full of common pet toxins. When pet-proofing your kitchen, keep the following tips in mind:
Be aware of foods that are off-limits for pets and tell any guests that sharing table scraps is not allowed.
Use a garbage can with a secure lid.
Follow the safe usage instructions on cleaning products and store them in a secure cabinet.
Keep insecticides and rodenticides in places where your pets can never access them.
YOUR FAMILY ROOM AND BEDROOMS
Electrical cords can be tempting to chew on, so hide them (or tape them down) whenever possible.
The ingestion of small objects is one of the leading causes of internal medicine emergencies. Keep your floors clear of shoelaces, jewelry, gift wrap ribbons, buttons, rubber bands, hair ties, and other easily ingestible items.
To prevent older pets from getting injured when jumping up or down from your bed or couch, consider adding pet stairs so he can get up and down safely.
It is fun to decorate with houseplants. Just be sure to check out the list of toxic and non-toxic plants from the ASPCA.
THE BATHROOM
Both over the counter and prescription medications as well as vitamins and herbal supplements can be extremely toxic for pets. Pill bottles should be closed tightly and stored away from pets.
Keep your toilet lid closed.
THE GARAGE
Keep all chemicals and potentially poisonous household supplies closed tightly and stored away from pets, including the following:
Antifreeze
Pesticides, herbicides
Fertilizer
Paints and solvents
Adhesives
In spite of our best efforts, accidents happen, so call your vet in doubt, if you have any questions about pet-proofing your house they might have suggestions too.
Let's start out the New Year on a good note and keep your home safe for all our furry friends.
OUT2NEWS 2024 PETS OF THE WEEK
Out2News Does Your Pet Get Lonely?
Article by: Robin Hall - Out2News
The short answer is yes. One of the emotions dogs can feel is loneliness. Dogs are pack animals and social creatures; they do not like spending too much time alone. Do not worry though, the good news is that most dogs can be left alone for short periods of time. Unless they have separation anxiety, they will be ok for about four hours at a time. Talking about their loneliness, it is a long-term issue and not something that occurs after a few hours. Taking them on walks, spending quality time with them or if they have another dog in the household will prevent them from feeling lonely.
Signs of loneliness with your dog include:
Becoming more clingy and needy
Unsettled behavior or being destructive,
Lethargy or lack of interest in playing,
Decreased appetite
If you think your dog is showing signs of loneliness, you can always talk to your vet about solutions and make sure there are no underlying issues. This is important if you are already keeping them occupied and socializing them.
Here are a few simple things you can start today to help your dog feel less lonely:
Put on some music
Give them a spot to look out the window
Take your lunch break with them
Leave them with a fun game
Maybe have a doggie play date or another dog to keep them company throughout the day.
Every dog owner wants their dog to feel happy, loved and satisfied with life all the time. However, work, personal circumstances and busy lives can mean our dogs are left alone more than we would like.
Your dog will appreciate the care you are taking to alleviate his fears and anxiety while he is home alone. He may not know what you are doing, but he will know that he will be all right until you are back home with him, rubbing his belly, kissing his nose, and spending quality time with him. Sometimes we forget how much our pets need us. Their behaviors show us. Long story short love on them when you are with them, they will know you will be back with more of your much-loved kisses and hugs they crave.
7 Ways to Honor Your Passed Pet
Article Provided by: Monterey Animal Hospital
Saying goodbye to a beloved pet can be one of the most difficult situations to go through. Although it is tough, you can still honor the memory of your lost pet and keep your best furry friend in your heart forever. Here are 7 thoughtful ways to remember your passed pet.
Create a scrapbook
Creating a scrapbook can help you organize any pictures and memorabilia from the time spent with your pet. You can use the scrapbook to tell the story of your pet’s life. Include pictures with captions and stories so you can relive your favorite moments. Personalize your scrapbook with cute stickers and decorations that remind you of your pet.
Get a tattoo
If you are looking for a more permanent tribute, consider getting a tattoo. The memory of your pet will always be with you and you can get creative with the appearance. You could get a portrait of your pet, their name, their paw print, or something more artistic. There is plenty of inspiration online for pet memorial tattoos.
Host a memorial service
Although memorial services are typically reserved for humans, it is possible to host one for your pet. Consider using your backyard or your pet’s favorite park. Gather your loved ones and share your favorite memories of your pet with them. A memorial service will give you the opportunity to celebrate your pet’s life and give them a send off. There are also memorial websites where you can post a tribute to your pet’s life.
Commission a piece of art
There are plenty of artists online that specialize in pet portraits and would love to help you honor your pet’s memory. You can provide an artist with a picture of your pet and give them personal details so they can create a unique piece of art for you. A drawing or painting can be an excellent option. Frame and display the art in your home so you’ll always have your pet nearby.
Make commemorative jewelry or a keychain
A piece of jewelry dedicated to your pet allows you to always carry a piece of them with you. Consider placing a picture of your pet in a locket, or try making a bracelet or necklace. You can use beads shaped as pet-themed items, such as pawprints. Choose colors that remind you of your pet.
Some jewelers are able to incorporate your pet’s ashes in personalized necklaces, bracelets, or rings. You can find pendants to hold the ashes or have a jeweler place them under a gemstone. Explore your community or the internet to find the right artist and memento for you.
If jewelry isn’t your thing, you could also make a keychain. Your pet’s ID tag can be converted into a keychain. An item like this holds many memories that you will cherish forever.
Celebrate your pet’s birthday an anniversary
Although your pet is not physically here, you can still honor their memory on special occasions such as birthdays and anniversaries. Spend these days reminiscing about the amazing times you had with your pet and celebrate the fun and loving life that your pet had with you.
Give back to animals in need
Consider donating to your favorite animal shelter or rescue organization in your pet’s name and supporting animals in need. Volunteering your time is also a great way to help your community and make a difference in the lives of other animals. By giving back to others in memory of your best friend, your pet can continue to make a positive impact on the world.
Losing a pet is not easy, but with these ideas, you can keep your pet’s memory alive and celebrate the amazing life they lived.
772-283-3756
Did You Know: All About Vultures
Article by: Ashlee Quyle
Several different bird species call Florida home. From iconic birds of prey like the Bald Eagle and Great Horned Owl to wading birds like the Roseate Spoonbill and Wood Storks...but did you know the Wood Storks lesser-known cousin is the vulture?
In South Florida, we see both the Turkey Vulture and the Black Vulture (that we wrongfully nicknamed "Buzzards"). Buzzards are a type of hawk, which both vulture species are not. The first thought that typically comes to our minds when we think about vultures is the instant connection to their attraction to dead animals. That is because, unlike other birds, vultures have an extraordinary sense of smell and can smell carrion (dead animals) when they are only 12-24 hours old. Black Vultures have a much weaker sense of smell, however, and usually rely on their sense of sight to find their meal. They will even watch Turkey Vultures soar lower and lower to a potential meal and then take it from them! Both species of vulture prefer their meals freshly deceased. Vultures are nature's garbage crew and they do their job perfectly!
Believe it or not, vultures are cleaner than you'd think and have special adaptations to keep them that way. Have you ever noticed that vultures are bald? Vultures have these beautifully bald heads to keep the muck from the carrion they feed on from getting stuck in their feathers. They also have strange white-ish-colored feet. Their feet are white because they release their urine and fecal matter onto their feet to not only cool off from the hot summer temperatures but also to clean their feet off from any bacteria or diseases they may have picked up from their meals.
Vultures are also beneficial to the ecosystem. By eating roadkill and other carrion, they clean the environment from any potential diseases or bacteria that could be harmful to other animals and humans. The diseases and bacteria don’t affect them though, due to harboring extremely strong stomach acids. They also help farmers! Farmers used to watch the skies when they needed to find one of their cows giving birth. This was because Black Vultures were keeping an eye out for the afterbirth.
While vultures may be “social” and eat together as a group, they are keen to only be social towards their family group. Black Vultures in particular are highly aggressive to vultures outside of their family. While they don’t have a voice box, they’ll communicate through raspy hisses and grunts or will even bite and peck at outside vultures to keep them away from their meal. Both the Turkey Vulture and Black Vultures are family-oriented. These ground nesters will lay 1-3 eggs and care for and continue to feed their young well after they have fledged.
While we may not find vultures beautiful, they do have many benefits and have been long overlooked. While these birds of prey are powerful, they are not indestructible. Back in the 1940s, they were facing similar problems as the Bald Eagle, Osprey, Peregrine Falcon, and Brown Pelican. The use of DDT was extremely popular at the time, but as we all know, had a very powerful effect on our native birds. Birds that died from DDT were eaten by vultures that passed this harmful pesticide down to them. Females would go lay their eggs, and the eggshell would be too thin to support the mother's weight during incubation, and she would end up crushing the eggs; leading to a rapid decline in population for both species. Since the ban, they have made a very healthy recovery and are once again back to doing what they do best, cleaning nature.
BOO'S 2024 APRIL RECIPE CORNER
Article by: Robin Hall - Out2News.com
Think you can't make delicious treats for your fur babies? Think again. Boo suffered from allergies, so I got to work baking some tasty treats for my furry baby!
Boo said, "moms and dads make treats for the kids why not us?"
Some people don't know that dogs can actually suffer from food allergies just like humans. Cooking our treats is a great way to know exactly what is going into our food.
Maybe (like me) your furry friend is very food motivated and needs some low fat treats to help them keep the weight off. I love being spoiled and mom knows this! So why not make your furry friend some homemade treats?
Below are a few recipes my mom makes for me at during the year. They are very yummy & healthy for all of us. Make sure you watch out though sometimes mom will take a bite!
Salmon Brittle Dog Treats
Ingredients:
1 big can of Salmon
2 Cups of all Purpose Flour
2 Eggs
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees farenheit. In a large bowl, mix together entire can of Salmon (water and all) and then use a fork to flake it apart. You can use two forks to make this process faster. Next, add flour and eggs. Now mash it all together until you have a nice sticky fish mess!
Take a cookie sheet and line it with parchment paper. Flatten out the sticky fish mess on the cookie sheet. The thinner the mix, the crunchier the treats will turn out. Back in the oven for around 30 minutes. If your treats are thick, you can use two spatulas and flip the entire thing over and bake for another 15 – 20 minutes to help dry them out a bit more. As soon as they are done, move it to a cooling rack and let it cool.
Once cooled you should be able to easily cut or break apart the treats! I cut mine into training treat sized pieces! Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.
Fishy Dog Treats - Salmon & Tuna
Ingredients:
14 ounces Salmon (1 can)
7 ounces Tuna in Water (1 small can)
4 Eggs (beaten)
2 cups Flour (whole wheat)
US Customary – Metric
Directions:
Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees.
Combine the salmon and tuna in a medium bowl. No need to drain. Add the beaten eggs followed by the flour. Stir well to thoroughly combine.
Spread evenly in a lightly greased 12 x 16 baking pan.
Bake for 40 minutes and cool briefly. Cut into 1/2 inch squares and divide into 5 storing bags.
Salmon Swirl Treats
Ingredients:
1 can salmon (juices included)
2 cups flour (we made oat flour from rolled oats in the food processor)
2 eggs
Optional: You can add a squirt of fish oil for extra salmony goodness.
Pastry bag with open swirl tip
2 parchment lined cookie sheets
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350º with both racks near the center but accessible.
Toss rolled oats into the food processor bowl and pulse for about a minute to create oat flour.
Add a can of salmon including the juices.
Pulse to combine well, then add eggs and pulse until dough ball forms.
Check the consistency of your dough. You want a happy medium between easy-to-pipe but not so loose that you lose your swirl definition.
Add water or a little more flour (or cornstarch) if you have something you just can’t work with. You can also set the dough in the freezer for a few minutes if necessary.
Pipe your dough onto parchment-covered cookie sheets.
These should be dry and crunchy, so bake them until you see a little color on the bottom and at the edges.
Total baking time is about 30 minutes, rotating and swapping the pans halfway through. If you need to go longer, check every five minutes until done.
Am I Liable If My Dog Injures Someone Else?
Dog Skin Problems
Article & Photo by: Alex Jew
Your furry friend can have an itch that he must scratch, however, sometimes the itch can be problematic and if not treated correctly, it can lead to a very sick pooch.
Dogs with Itchy Skin
Pruritus is the terminology for dogs with itchy skin. This is one of the most common reasons that pet owners visit their veterinarian in Collierville. If your dog is persistently itching and scratching, it can keep him up all night and this in turn can keep you up all night. In addition to feeling terrible, your dog can develop secondary infections as they scratch until their skin as lesions and loss of hair from their nails and teeth.
Dogs with Allergies
Your dog can have skin allergies, just as humans do. Allergies can make your dog very itchy. There are three categories of allergies: flea allergies, environmental allergies and food allergies. It is important to find which of these is the culprit, so your dog gets the treatment he needs and becomes itch free and happy again. The treatment for flea allergies includes treating all the pets in your household and your home and yard to alleviate the allergy. Some dogs are allergic to mite dander, pollen, or even some types of grass. This type of allergy may involve allergy shots or medications to get it under control. Food allergies are solved with a very strict food elimination diet, which may take some time, but in the end, it will give you and your dog a great relief with a visit to your animal hospital.
Hot Spots and Sores
External parasites, mainly fleas and mites can cause hot spots and sores on your dog's skin. These items can spread quickly and appear as red and sticky sores. If you notice this, he needs veterinarian attention immediately.
Dog Hair Loss
If your dog is losing hair, it's important to determine the cause with a skin scraping at your local animal hospital. It may be parasites, a thyroid disease or even an adrenal disorder. Your vet can do an exam, decide if the loss of hair is secondary to a systemic disorder and then provide a course of action.
What to Know When Adopting a Senior Pet
Article by: Mark Downs
When most people think of adopting a pet, their first thought is a puppy or kitten. Senior pets are often overlooked at the shelter, and they can have a difficult time adjusting to shelter life. But these “wiser” dogs and cats just might be the perfect match for your family.
Before adopting a pet, it’s best to match your lifestyle with the type of pet you get. It’s not just the breed to think about — age plays a big factor in how much training, exercise, and overall care they’ll need. Puppies and kittens aren’t right for every family, as there is a lot of energy, accidents, and training (especially with puppies) involved to get through the early stages of their lives.
Adopting a senior pet might be a great option — they’re easy-to-love, potty trained, and often require less exercise than their younger counterparts. And, you can teach a dog (or cat!) new tricks or train them out of behaviors you don’t like.
What classifies a pet as “senior”?
Dogs and cats become seniors at different points in their lives. Cats are thought to be senior between the ages of 7 and 11, while dogs are considered senior between the ages of 7 and 9 (large breeds will become senior sooner, while small breeds become senior later)[1]. While it’s not always the case, older dogs and cats may have preexisting conditions. However, these are usually already diagnosed, being treated, or successfully managed, making it easier for you to anticipate what medical care your pet will need. It’s important to keep in mind that age is not a disease — older pets can be just as healthy as younger ones!
How to adopt a senior pet
So, what might you expect when you adopt a senior pet? A lot of times, senior pets are fostered rather than housed at your local shelter. This is because older dogs and cats often have a harder time in the shelter environment after spending most of their lives in a comfortable home. The foster parent will likely be able to give you some real-world insight into how your prospective pet has done with other pets, children, and even a variety of sights, sounds, and objects in the home. If the dog or cat is being fostered, your local animal shelter or foster organization will need to coordinate a time for you to meet with your potential pet.
How to care for a senior pet
Now that you've given a sweet senior pet a new home, it’s time to give them a great life. Did you know that only 14% of senior pets undergo regular health screenings by their veterinarian[2]? That’s a shame, since if disease or pain were caught earlier, these pets would live longer, happier lives. And in the long run, catching things earlier can save you money. Make sure to have your veterinarian run point-of-care tests such as blood chemistry, urine, and hematology tests to establish a baseline of their health and to take disease prevention measures.
When you adopt a senior pet, you’re giving them a stable, loving home to live out their years — and they’ll repay you in joy and all the couch snuggles you can handle.
