Pet Safety in Colder Months

When the temps start to drop, you’re not the only one who notices. Unlike you, your dog doesn’t have the benefit of pulling warmer layers out of the closet. While some breeds love to romp and play outside in the snow and rain, others prefer to huddle up inside. Regardless of what your pup’s preference is, remember that exposure to winter’s cold air and chilly rain, sleet, and snow can lead to chapped paws and dry, itchy skin. Furthermore, exposure to toxic holiday foods and plants, antifreeze, and ice-melting chemicals can be downright dangerous. Fortunately, there are a few easy steps you can take to both help your dog acclimate to the weather change and stay safe from potential hazards. 

First, Know The Dangers:

Watch out for these risky hazards that are unique to the winter months – 

Hypothermia: If it’s too cold for you, it’s likely too cold for your dog. When left outside in the cold, pets can freeze and become disoriented and lost, injured or even killed. The same is true for being left in your car—cars become like ovens in the summer, and like freezers in the winter.  

Ice. Whether a slippery path or thin ice on lakes and ponds, ice can present a danger to dogs and puppies who aren’t aware of it. Be mindful of slick walkways to prevent slips and muscle tears and strains, and never let your dog wander onto frozen bodies of water, as hypothermia and drowning can happen quickly. 

Chemicals: Snow-melt agents are harsh and lead to dry, cracked, and bleeding paws—and can be harmful if ingested if your dog attempts to lick it off. Likewise, even a small amount of antifreeze can be fatal. Make sure to use pet-friendly melt, wipe their paws down upon returning home, and keep all chemicals locked away and out of reach. 

Arthritis: If your dog already experiences arthritis, cold weather can make the symptoms worse. Keep them warm and dry, and perhaps talk to your vet about approved medications to help them manage pain.  

Winter Holiday Celebrations: While many of us look forward to annual traditions, many of them don’t serve our pets. Be mindful of unsafe foods, attended candles, and poisonous seasonal plants (like holly, mistletoe, and poinsettia). Make sure your Christmas tree is stable and prevent your pup from ingesting pine needles or water from the tree’s base. 

Take Action

Wellness:  It’s a good idea to have your pet checked by a vet at least once a year, and the winter is a great time to make sure he or she starts the cold season happy and healthy. 

Grooming: Don’t over bathe your dog during the winter months, as this can strip essential moisturizing oils from their skin and lead to itching and flaking. Likewise, avoid shaving them down as longer coats provide more warmth. If your pup has long hair, consider only trimming the length to minimize clinging ice balls. 

Stay Warm & Protected: While some dogs enjoy being in the cold longer, it’s incorrect to assume pets can tolerate cold better than humans. If it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for them. Make sure you know their limits—your vet can help guide you on what is appropriate for your breed, consider providing a high-collared coat for outdoor treks, and make sure to wipe them down and provide a warm, draft-free spot in your home when you come back in. Protect those paws by removing snowballs, checking for cracks and bleeding, and perhaps protecting them with a layer of petroleum jelly or booties. 

Collar & Chip: Dogs can easily become disoriented and lost in the cold. Besides the effect of hypothermia, cold and snow make it difficult for dogs to pick up recognizable scents that help lead them home. Make sure they are chipped and collared in the event they lose their way. 

Winter wellness: Has your pet had his/her preventive care exam (wellness exam) yet? Cold weather may worsen some medical conditions such as arthritis. Your pet should be examined by a veterinarian at least once a year, and it’s as good a time as any to get him/her checked out to make sure (s)he is ready and as healthy as possible for cold weather.

Provide choices: Just like you, pets prefer comfortable sleeping places and may change their location based on their need for more or less warmth. Give them some safe options to allow them to vary their sleeping place to adjust to their needs.

Stay inside. Cats and dogs should be kept inside during cold weather. It’s a common belief that dogs and cats are more resistant than people to cold weather because of their fur, but it’s untrue. Like people, cats and dogs are susceptible to frostbite and hypothermia and should be kept inside. Longer-haired and thick-coated dog breeds, such as huskies and other dogs bred for colder climates, are more tolerant of cold weather; but no pet should be left outside for long periods in below-freezing weather.

Collar and chip: Many pets become lost in winter because snow and ice can hide recognizable scents that might normally help your pet find his/her way back home. Make sure your pet has a well-fitting collar with up-to-date identification and contact information. A microchip is a more permanent means of identification, but it’s critical that you keep the registration up to date.

Be prepared: If you live in a region prone to blizzards, high snowfall counts, and power outages, be prepared. Make sure you have enough food, water and pet medications to get through at least five days. 

Recognize problems: If your pet is limping, seems anxious, is shivering, whining or slows down or stops moving, seems weak, or starts looking for warm places to burrow, get them back inside quickly—these are signs of hypothermia. Unfortunately, frostbite is harder to detect, and may not be fully recognized until a few days after the fact. If you suspect your pet has hypothermia or frostbite, consult your veterinarian immediately.

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Recent Articles:

• Pet Safety in Colder Months
• Coping with the loss of a pet
• Traveling with Pets
• Pet Safety Around the House: Foods & Plants Toxic to Pets
• The Value of Pet Insurance

Coping with the loss of a pet

Every pet owner knows that your furry pal is truly a member of your family. They depend on you to survive and the love and affection they have given to you over the years cannot be measured. So, it is certainly no surprise that the death of a pet can be heartbreaking. Everyone manages grief differently; some can move past a death much quicker than others but it is important no matter who you are to recognize the loss of a pet and take the time to emotionally heal. The same five stages of grief that apply to the loss of a human can be used here to help us understand the grieving process.

• Denial – It is hard to believe that your pet is gone, and you can have feelings of shock and disbelief. This is our bodies way of helping us and letting in only as much sorrow as we can handle at once. 
• Anger – Once the initial denial subsides, anger at the situation, yourself, your other family members or even your pet may arise. Being angry is an indication of the intense love you felt for your dog that has passed.
• Bargaining – This stage can bring up feelings of guilt and have you looking back at what you could have done differently to prevent your pet’s death. But, it is important that you should not blame yourself. 
• Depression – After looking backwards and bargaining you will focus on the sadness of the present. Others may try to tell you to “snap out if it” and “cheer up” but it is helpful to be patient and know that it is normal to be upset over the loss of a loved one.
• Acceptance – This does not mean that that you are OK with what has happened. It just means that you are accepting the reality that your dog has died.  You will begin to feel more at peace, learn to live with their loss, and adjust to life without them.

Helping the other members of your household

Many of us with pets also have other family members in the house as well. While other adults may be able to cope with the stages of grief on their own, it is important to make sure any children in our lives have someone to turn to. For many kids the loss of a family pet may be the first time they have ever experienced death. Toddlers and very young children may not be able to comprehend that their friend is gone forever and may ask repeatedly about them. Children a little older may get angry at the situation or can worry about who else may die in their lives. The first thing to do is make sure your child knows they can talk to you any time they feel the need and share with them that you are experiencing the same emotions they are. 

If you have other pets, the death of their companion can certainly affect them as well. They may not eat as much, become less active, or spend an excessive amount of time near their passed friends bed. It is important to show them love and affection even if it is painful for you. It can help to find new activities, places to walk, or a new toy for them to develop positive associations unrelated to the dog that has died. 

Commemorate your deceased pet

The formal act of memorializing a loved one who has passed can be very therapeutic. Immediately after they have died you can hold a memorial service for them with close friends or family. If you were able to keep their remains, depending on where you live, you can find a burial spot for them in your yard or at a pet cemetery. Another great way to keep their memory alive can be to create a scrap book of your time together or frame and hang your favorite picture of them at home.

Moving past the death of a beloved pet can certainly be hard. One thing that people tend to do, either for their own sake or for their children’s, is to get a new dog right away. While new animals are always fun, we suggest you take the time to make sure that you have coped with the loss before diving into the adventure of a new doggy.

If you are having more trouble with the loss than you can handle, we suggest looking into some of the following options for support. For children that may be having excessive issues with the loss of a pet we suggest you talk first to their pediatrician or school’s psychologist for the best recommendations on mental health support.

ASPCA grief counseling phone hotline:

(877) 474-3310; This is a direct line to ASPCA’s psychologist and grief counselor, Dr. Stephanie LaFarge, PhD. 

P.A.L. (People Animals Love) Grief support hotline:
Text or leave a message at 202-966-2171. 
A professional counselor will contact you, usually within hours. It’s free.

VCA Pet loss support group:

https://vcahospitals.com/veterinary-specialists-ct/primary/services/primary-care/pet-loss-support

Lap of Love Pet Loss Support:

https://www.lapoflove.com/our-services/pet-loss-support

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• Coping with the loss of a pet
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• The Value of Pet Insurance

Traveling with Pets

The warm summer weather is finally here and it’s the perfect time to travel with your family—including the furry ones. Taking your pets with you can add to the fun and reduce any worries about using a pet sitter or kennel. But travelling with your pooch requires a bit more preparation to keep everyone happy, healthy, and safe. Before you hit the road, check out our expert tips and ideas, and get ready for a great time.

Pre-Trip Planning

Make Sure Identification is Up to Date: Before you go, make sure your dog’s collar is in good shape with clear identification. This should include your dog’s name, your name, your home number, and proof of rabies vaccination. (For extra reassurance, you may want to consider a microchip.) It’s also a smart idea to pack a picture of your dog or ensure you have one handy on your phone—just in case you need to share it with others 

A Clean Bill of Health: If you’re going on an extended trip, consider bringing your dog for a check up beforehand. Make sure all his vaccinations are up to date, and bring their health records with you (health records are required for air travel). It’s also a good idea to research emergency vet services at your travel destination—if you found yourself in need of emergency care, this step could save precious time. 

Prepped & Packed 

Depending on the length of your trip, you’ll need to pack many (if not most) of these essentials:

• Food, water, & treats. Bring extra to get you through the trip without having to buy a new brand on the road—which may cause stomach upset. Treats are especially helpful as rewards when navigating new and stressful situations.
• Food & Water Bowls. Pro-tip: pop-up dishes can be helpful space savers on the road.
• Carrier or Crate. When travelling by car, a crate can help keep your dog safe and secure. If travelling by plane, a crate is required—just make sure yours is up to airline requirements before your leave.
• Dog bed, blankets & toys. The familiar smells of their dog bed and blankets will not only give them a comfy place to sleep, they’ll help ease anxiety associated with travel. The same goes for toys, which also help distract them, reduce stress and wear them out. 
• Grooming and cleaning products. Travelling with dogs can get messy. Grooming brushes, dog shampoo (don’t use human shampoo on your pooch!), potty waste bags, pet-friendly cleaning products, and paper towels can all come in extremely handy.
• Health records & ID. As mentioned above, these items are crucial.

Travel By Car

Even if your pup is a pro at car rides, longer trips need a little forethought. Here’s a few points to consider:

• If your dog isn’t used to long trips, start with a few shorter rides ahead of your trip.
• Have them travel on an empty stomach, which helps prevent car sickness, but be sure they have plenty of water to stay hydrated.
• Stop frequently for potty breaks and leg stretches.
• Never let your dog ride in the back of an open truck or stick his or head out the window, and never leave them in an unattended closed vehicle. All of these actions can be extremely hazardous, even fatal—and not worth the risk. 

Travel By Air

• Airlines require a certification of health no more than 10 days before travel, and your dog should be at least 8 weeks old and weaned. 
• Limit food before travel to prevent air sickness and accidents
• If your dog is riding in cargo, make sure he or she has warm blankets in her crate to stay snuggled and reassured.
• Make sure you make a reservation for your dog on your flight ahead of time, and check in with your airline for their specific requirements days before you leave for the airport so you have time to prepare. 

Pet Friendly Trip Ideas

Now that you’re prepared, here’s the fun part—choosing where to go! Here’s a list of pet-friendly resorts and destination ideas throughout New England so every family member can have a great time.

Inn by the Sea, Maine

One of the first pet-friendly resorts in Maine, the Inn by the Sea offers pet-friendly rooms equipped with water bowls and dog blankets—the perfect way to relax after exploring local trails and beaches

Paws On Pelham, Newport, RI

Located right in the historic district, Paws on Pelham is a dog-friendly inn within walking distance of downtown. Find a dog-friendly beach or take your pooch along the cliff walk for some great exercise and stunning views. 

Fairmont Copley Plaza, Boston, MA

For the more refined pooch, the Fairmont offers access to the bright lights of Boston to even your furry family members, making it a luxurious jumping off point for all the city has to offer.

Asbury Park, NJ

Dogs aren’t just accepted in Asbury Park, they are welcomed with many dog-friendly businesses, making it a good choice for a summer rental with your favorite furry friend.

Provincetown, MA

Like Asbury Park, much of P-Town is dog friendly, including many inns, rentals, and business establishments. Just take a walk up the main strip with your pooch and see for yourself!

Montauk, NY

Amazing beaches, crashing waves, and dog-friendly parks—Montauk can be loads of fun for every family member. From dog-friendly rentals and hotels, to beaches where they can run free, Montauk packs a lot of punch. 

Wherever you may roam, be sure to check the local rules before you bring your pooch. Hiking trails may require you to keep your dog on leash, and beaches may only be open to dogs in off-peak hours. Now get out there and have some fun!

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Recent Articles:

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Pet Safety Around the House: Foods & Plants Toxic to Pets

When you become a pet owner, you dedicate yourself to looking after the health and well-being of your furry pal—and in return, they’ll give you years of companionship, affection, loyalty, and love. The last thing you want to do is put them in harm’s way, but it’s easy to overlook household foods and plants that pose a danger. Here’s a look at some of the most common hazards you might have around your home. 

Unsafe Foods

It’s tempting to give in to those puppy dog eyes with a treat from your plate, but here are the top foods your pet should never eat:

Avocados: Avocados contain a compound called persin, which may lead to vomiting or diarrhea in dogs. Persin is found in the leaves, seed, bark, and fruit of the avocado, and the seed itself presents a significant choking hazard. It’s best to pass on that side of guac for your pooch.

Alcohol: It doesn’t take much alcohol to have a severe effect on your dog’s liver. Even a small amount can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, coordination problems, breathing problems, coma— even death, so take care with your open containers and clean up spills. 

Baking Soda,  Baking Powder & Other Pantry items: Baking powder and baking soda can be highly toxic, as are many spices like nutmeg and cocoa powder. Ensure your pantry items are out of reach of your pooch to keep them safe.

Caffeine: Caffeine can be fatal to dogs, so keep them away from coffee and tea—even the beans, grounds, and tea bags. This goes for cocoa, chocolate (which is also toxic), sodas, energy drinks, and even some human medicines. If your dog ingests caffeine, get them to the vet as soon as possible. 

Chocolate: It’s well known that chocolate is lethal to dogs. It contains a compound called theobromine, which can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, heart problems, tremors, seizures, and death. Theobromine is present in all kinds of chocolate, even white chocolate, and the most dangerous kinds are dark and unsweetened baking chocolate. 

Dairy: Like humans, some dogs are allergic to dairy and can lead to skin problems, diarrhea, and other digestive problems. It’s best to avoid dairy to be safe..  

Fat Trimmings & Bones: Fat from meats, either cooked or uncooked, can lead to pancreatitis, and bones, as cliche as they might be, are actually a choking hazard for dogs. Furthermore they can splinter and cause blocks or cuts in your dog’s digestive system. 

Fruit Seeds & Pits: Many fruit seeds and pits like apple seeds, peach pits, and plum pits, contain small amounts of cyanide, which can be lethal. Pits present a choking hazard or can cause an intestinal blockage as well. 

Garlic & Onions: Raw, cooked, powdered, dehydrated—no matter the form, garlic and onions are not good for dogs. This includes other members of the allium family, like shallots, chives, and leeks. They can kill a dog’s red blood cells, leading to anemia. Eating a lot just once can cause poisoning. Steer clear. 

Grapes & Raisins: Just a small amount of grapes or raisins can make your dog sick—and even lead to kidney failure. If your dog has uncontrollable vomiting and you think they’ve ingested grapes or raisins, get to the vet ASAP. 

Raw Eggs, Meat & Fish: While feeding dogs a raw diet has become popular, the majority of veterinary medical associations don’t agree. Any raw diet runs the risk of food poisoning from E. coli, salmonella and welcomes parasites into their systems. 

Salt & Sugar: Too much salt in your pooch’s diet can lead to dehydration or worse, sodium ion poisoning, which can cause digestive problems, tremors, temperatures, seizures, even death. And, just like humans, sugar leads to obesity, diabetes, and dental problems.

Raw Yeast Dough: If your dog gets into raw dough with yeast, it will rise inside his or her stomach, causing a significant amount of painful bloating. But the real danger is from alcohol toxicosis—as the yeast ferments, it makes alcohol which can lead to alcohol poisoning. 

Unsafe House Plants

Beautiful to look at, but dangerous for your pup to eat—these are eigh of some of the most common house plants to watch out for:

Aloe Vera: Known for its therapeutic properties, aloe vera actually contains saponin, a mild toxin. If ingested by pets, symptoms can include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, changes in urine color, and tremors. While saponin toxicity is usually mild, it can still be life threatening due to the severe dehydration that results from digestive upset. 

Amaryllis: A popular holiday plant, the beautiful Amaryllis contains lycorine, which can cause depression, vomiting, diarrhea, hypotension, drooling, and tremors. Like many plants, the bulbs are more toxic than the leaves and flowers. If you must have one, keep it far away from pets. 

Ivy Plants: Many ivy plants contain compounds that are moderately toxic to pets. Mouth and stomach irritation, excessive drooling, foaming at the mouth, swelling of the mouth, tongue and lips, vomiting, and diarrhea are all symptoms to look out for. If you’re pooch can’t help but snack, keep ivy out of bounds.  

Jade Plant: The Jade is a popular variety of succulent that, while generally not lethal, should be avoided by pets. Accidental ingestion can lead to digestive upset, lethargy, loss of appetite, and in extreme cases, convulsions and decreased heart rate. 

Lily Plants: Be they Peace Lilies, Calla Lilies, Tiger Lilies, or Lily of the Valley, lilies of all kinds present a danger to pets. Though technically they aren’t all in the same family, they all contain various toxins that can pose serious risks to your pets. Some symptoms are milder, like burning in the mouth and throat, drooling, and choking, but many are far more dangerous, like breathing difficulties, convulsions, renal failure, permanent organ damage, even death.

Philodendron: The philodendron family of plants are popular thanks to their attractive looks and easy care, but they do present a level of mild to moderate toxicity to pets. Symptoms of philodendron poisoning include oral irritation, pain and swelling of mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing, and rarely, constriction of airways. 

Sago Palm: With its easy care and tropical appeal, the Sago Palm is a popular houseplant— and one of the most dangerous to pets. All parts of it are highly poisonous, the seed being the most toxic. The presence of cycasin throughout the plant can lead to drooling, vomiting, bloody stools, internal hemorrhaging, liver failure, and death. Do not wait if you suspect accidental ingestion, go to the veterinary hospital immediately. 

Snake Plant: The snake plant is another easy-to-grow plant that’s especially popular not only for it’s dramatic appeal, but because it’s fairly hard to kill. Like aloe vera, the snake plant contains saponin, which, when ingested, leads to mild to moderate symptoms like drooling, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, or more the more severe risks involved with extreme dehydration. 

While some dangers to our pets, like chemicals and medications, are obvious dangers to our pets, many seemingly innocent foods and plants pose equal threats. While this list mentions some of the most common, it’s not exhaustive. If you have any doubts about a food or houseplant, do your research, ask your vet, and make sure it’s safely out of your pet’s purview. 

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The Value of Pet Insurance

As pet parents, there is nothing we won’t do to make sure our babies get the absolute best, and sometimes that means getting them the best food, walking them more often, playing with them, and simply caring for them in ways that we occasionally forget to do with ourselves. 

That is the pet parent motto. 

Unfortunately, there are times when our pets are exposed to sudden illness and dangers that are completely outside of our control, leaving us desolated and hurt when we’re left with no other choice but to let them go. 

Nonetheless, as any loving pet parent would do, we typically go to great lengths to make sure that our babies are cared for. 

But, let’s be honest, pet bills can be costly, and, the cost of a pet can range anywhere from $20,000 – $40,000 every 10 years. That’s a lot of dog food!  

It’s no joke. Although a big chunk of this money pays for veterinary care—from check-ups to vaccines, to preventive treatment for illnesses and recovery from accidents—the biggest portion always comes from emergency medical care due to accidents or treatment for hereditary illness.

Routine check-ups can be expensive, but having insurance cover smaller procedures like ultrasound tests and blood work is a real relief. Aside from that, pet insurance can also cover routine check-ups and vaccinations, usually called a “wellness plan”. 

Caring for Your Pet During the Pandemic

During these challenging times, it’s normal to worry about your pet’s health. After all, some of us might only be used to seeing them get all excited in the morning because it’s breakfast time and then after coming home late from work. 

Which really answers the question of what our pets do when we’re not around: they lie around. 

Spending so much more time with our pets at home has made many of us realize that our pets could do with a little exercise, helping us find more and new ways to strengthen our bonds with them. Daily walks, playtime, and comfy naps on the floor go a long way in making sure our pets grow up to be happy and healthy. 

Even still, it’s important to know the difference between urgent care and routine checkups, especially now during the pandemic. 

Elective procedures, such as declawing, cosmetic surgery, tail docking, dew claw removal, spaying and neutering, and dental surgery should be postponed as long as possible so that veterinary offices can avoid higher numbers of patients coming in. Emergency matters such as accidents, respiratory problems, and poisonings require immediate medical attention, and should be treated as such. 

Some medical providers have started to implement curbside service as a way of minimizing contact between humans and veterinary care professionals, and some have increased their telemedicine services as a way of cushioning their in-house levels while lowering contagion risk. 

Here are some measures you can take as a pet owner to help keep your pets in good health during the pandemic: 

1. Stock up on prescription medicines for heartworm, parasites, fleas and ticks, as well as any other maintenance drugs your pets need. 
2. Stock up on food—this helps avoid unnecessary visits to pet stores.
3. Work on your own mental and physical health: pets pick up on your feelings very easily, which means your anxiety can also affect them. Check-in with yourself every day to determine what your needs are and how to meet those needs. 
4. Exercise them: taking them on walks, playing indoors with them, or letting them roam the backyard are great ways to promote healthy habits for your pets while also keeping their energy levels optimal.

Important Facts about Pet Insurance: 

Reimbursements: pet insurance does not pay your vet directly like your own health insurance (although very few providers do), which means you pay for all vet visits and charges then receive a reimbursement from your provider. The best plans typically reimburse for 90% of covered expenses. 

Pre-existing conditions: pet insurance will not reimburse you for conditions your pet already had before you bought the policy. 

Payout caps: most plans will stop reimbursing after you’ve reached your policy’s maximum coverage amount or limit. Some policies have an annual cap while others have a per-incident cap. 

Deductible: the money you must pay before your insurance policy kicks in. 

Waiting periods: your policy won’t cover your pet until you’ve completed a waiting period. Some companies require 14 days but some could have you wait for six months before being able to process a claim. 

Exclusions: insurance policies usually exclude specific conditions in their language. Be sure to read your policy before buying it. 

Networks: not all insurance providers reimburse for services provided by ALL vets. Check with your provider to see which veterinarians are eligible. 

Preventative care: although you’ll get the best value from a policy that covers accident or illness, a preventative care policy handles routine “wellness” care that is performed year-round. 

Pet age: after reaching 12 years of age, most insurance policies will start to diminish their coverage for new situations. 

How to Find the Best Pet Insurance for Your Pet

While many insurance companies offer similar policies with little to no differences, it’s important to get a good handle on your breed’s specific health conditions before choosing a policy. 

Knowing whether pet insurance will pay off for you and your pet will depend on your pet’s specific health care needs. Before buying a plan, consider its costs and weigh against potential benefits. Recent monthly averages in the US for pet insurance was $30 – $65 dollars per month. Talking to your local and learning about your pet’s health history will put you on the right track to laying this down correctly. 

Pricing: take a look at average rates, flexibility with premiums and deductibles, and any potential limits on payments to policyholders. 

Coverage options: comprehensive coverage and accident-only coverage

While wellness and routine care are not covered by insurance, some companies offer these as add-ons. These include neutering and spaying, vaccines, flea and tick treatment, teeth and ear cleaning, heartworm medication, and anal glan expression. 

Is pet insurance worth it? 

Should you spend an extra $40 or $50 a month on ensuring your pet’s health? Or should you pay the costs for procedures and routine check-ups with out of pocket? 

Research says it’s not that simple. Some breeds are prone to health conditions that necessitate frequent vet visits, while others are relatively healthy breeds that might only need routine check-up and care.  

Make sure you take some time to research your breed’s health history and learn about specific conditions that might affect them. 

Guest post contribution by Wally de la Rosa from Money.com

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Recent Articles:

• Pet Safety in Colder Months
• Coping with the loss of a pet
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• Pet Safety Around the House: Foods & Plants Toxic to Pets
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Getting Started With A New Puppy

Is there anything better than a new puppy? If you’ve just brought one home, you’re in store for a lot of licks, laughs, and love.  But with all the joy comes a lot of responsibility.  Whether your new puppy is your very first pet or you just need to brush up before adding another furry family member, here’s what you need to know:

Puppy Proof Your Home

You’ve probably heard that getting a puppy is a lot like having a baby—and with good reason. Puppies need a lot of care and oversight to stay safe and healthy. Remember, anything a pup can chew on, he will. To prevent any unwanted accidents, take preventative action before you bring your pup home. Breakable items, power cords, and potential toxins (like household chemicals, certain plants, pharmaceuticals, and harmful human foods) should be placed out of reach. Baby gates are a smart way to keep dogs away from certain rooms or stairs as well. 

Get Your Supplies Ready

It’s a smart idea to have your puppy essentials already in your home when you first bring your new furry friend home. This includes a leash and collar with an I.D. tag, food and water bowls, chew toys, a comfy dog bed, and if you choose, a crate or kennel. If you choose a larger kennel for when your pup is full-grown, block off the extra space with cardboard or other harmless obstruction to make it smaller and more secure feeling. 

Welcome Them Home Gently

When you first arrive at your home, allow your pup to go to the bathroom before you bring her inside (and reward them when they do)—keeping the leash on them the whole time. Once inside, sit with her either on the floor (or couch if she’s allowed) and give her loving pets and vocal affection so she gets to know the sound of your voice and used to being touched by you. Remember to bring her out frequently to relieve herself; puppies haven’t developed control (see housetraining below) and may have an accident when excited.  

Let Them Discover Their Crate

There are several reasons why you might choose to crate train your dog. Many dogs feel safe in a small, den-like atmosphere that’s all their own. Let your new pup explore their crate by spending a short amount of time in it. This gives them time to process their new surroundings while you slowly introduce them to their new space. 

Puppy Chow Time

How you choose to feed your puppy can make a big difference in his or her health. From grain-free to raw diets to good old-fashioned kibble, there’s a lot on the market. It can be confusing on what’s best. Do your research to understand puppy nutritional requirements and the different foods on the market: ask your vet, talk to your pet-owning friends, and read up online. Remember that dog food is a big business, just because an item is well-marketed doesn’t mean it’s the right choice for your pet. Do make sure to choose puppy formulas versus adult or senior blends, and if you need to switch brands, do so gradually to prevent stomach upset or finicky eating patterns. 

The First (And Second And Third) Trip to the Vet

Taking your new puppy for a general exam within the first few days of arrival is necessary to establish good health, so choose your family veterinarian before you bring her home. Make sure to take gentle steps for a good experience, helping your puppy be less fearful of future visits. Within the first six months, you will likely make several trips so your pup can be vaccinated, tested for parasites (which can be very common in puppies), get spayed or neutered, get appropriate flea and tick prevention, and (optionally) be microchipped.

Housetraining

Puppies generally can’t control their bladders or bowels until they are about 12 weeks old, but you can still begin housetraining from the very start. It takes a bit of time and a lot of patience but by establishing a routine early on, your dog will know what to do once they gain bodily control. As a general rule, bring your puppy to the designated “potty spot” immediately first thing in the morning, after eating or drinking, after waking from a nap, after playtime, after chewing a toy, and last thing at night. Establishing set meal times will help you predict when a potty break will be needed. Remember, there will be accidents, so stay calm and steady in your approach.

Get Social

Getting your puppy used to new people, settings, and situations positively is the first step in raising a well-behaved and happy dog. The first few weeks of a pup’s life are critical for this kind of development, teaching them to be calm and accepting down the road. 

Handling: Get your dog used to being touched by handling their paws, ears, tail, belly, etc. This will help them to accept medical exams as well as pets from well-meaning strangers. 

Meeting other dogs: It’s smart to slowly introduce other dogs to your puppy before they learn to fear them, but check with your vet regarding vaccination status before you do. Likewise, busy places like the dog park might be overwhelming. Start with a doggy play date with only one other dog, keeping them both on leash until they are comfortable. 

Meeting new people: Introducing your dog to a variety of different people will help them adjust to being in the real world. This includes things you might not realize, including folks in uniforms, sunglasses, raincoats and umbrellas, hats, or those with disability equipment like wheelchairs and walkers. 

Establish A Hygiene Routine

General canine hygiene helps with overall health and well-being, and getting your dog adjusted to it early will significantly impact how they handle it down the road. This includes bathing, grooming, trimming nails, cleaning ears, brushing teeth, and providing durable and safe toys. Different breeds have different grooming requirements, but generally, puppies shouldn’t be bathed more than once a month to prevent dry skin. When you do bathe your pup, be sure to choose a puppy-formulated shampoo (and do not use products intended for humans). 

Bond with Your New BFF (Best Furry Friend)

The bond with your new dog begins the moment you bring him or her home and grows stronger every day. Nurture it with daily walks and routines, showing them affection, engaging in playtime, signing them up for behavior or agility training, or even just enjoying nightly snuggles. While puppies can be a lot of work, this bond is what it’s all about. By taking the right steps from the beginning, you’ll be rewarded with a lifetime of unconditional love and friendship.

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Training Tips for Your New Dog—Socializing With Other Dogs & People

You’ve just brought home a new furry pal—congratulations! Whether you’ve got a puppy or an older dog, you may soon notice they’re lacking some much-needed canine social skills. Ideally, puppies are socialized in their first year, but if you’ve adopted an adolescent or older dog, hope isn’t lost. Dogs of any age can benefit from a little social training! Take a look at some of our tips below and help your new-to-you pup feel safe and happy in their new environment. 

Start Small

Having a new dog is can be so exciting and there are surely many things you’ve been looking forward to doing with them. Before you do, remember, it’s smart to start small—too many new experiences and stimulus at once can result in an overwhelmed and fearful pooch. Instead, start with one new activity—like walking, being around new people, or other dogs— a week. Here’s where using a leash and muzzle can help, too. They allow dogs to be an observer first, before a participant, so they can take in their new environment. For example, although you probably can’t wait to take them to the dog park, it’s best to start slowly and only walk them around the perimeter of the park the first few times so they can see the other pups having fun. 

Handle Them Daily

It’s especially common for rescue dogs to be unaccustomed to being handled, but all dogs benefit from learning not to fear touch from their owners (or their friends, groomers, and veterinarians). Gently pet or handle your dog on a daily basis, including their ears, heads, and paws. As your dog becomes more comfortable with touch, have other people begin to handle them as well. This will also help in times of emergency—should your dog get hurt, they will be less likely to become defensive being handles as they trust being touched. 

Walk It Out

Taking your dog for a walk isn’t just about giving them some exercise. It’s an opportunity to observe and learn to interact with the world, and a chance to practice proper behavior. It also releases their pent-up energy, so they’ll be calmer and more submissive throughout the day. Remember, however, to resist pulling back on the lead or yelling at your pup as this will only increase their excitement level—and they will learn to associate it with walking (as well as interacting with other people and animals). Stay calm but assertive and distract them with a firm correction and/or walk away. 

Keep Introducing them to New Dogs & New People

Consistent pleasant exposure to new dogs and new people will help your dog remain friendly and social throughout his/or life (and walks are a great time to accomplish this). This helps prevent fear of strangers and aggressive behavior around other pooches. But when socializing with other dogs, remember to…

Pick the Right Kind of Play

Puppies benefit from off-leash play with other dogs; this is one of the ways they learn behavioral cues. An older dog may no longer like playing with large groups of unfamiliar canines. If your dog growls, snaps, or avoids other boisterous dogs, this is not abnormal. They might just prefer to play with you. If your heart is set on social time with other dogs, keep to just one dog at a time in the beginning, stay on-leash, and allow for a little bit of distance until the dogs get comfortable around one another. Once you notice that both dogs appear happy and comfortable, then you try an off-leash session in a fenced private yard with no other dogs. 

Be Rewarding

Find out what really motivates your dog—high-value treats? a favorite toy?—and reward their good behavior. By making good behavior or new experience rewarding, they’ll begin to associate it with joy and pleasure. Remember, however, to make sure the reward isn’t so distracting that it takes their eyes off the real prize—learning to be more comfortable with their surroundings. 

Wear Different Clothes

Dogs can be afraid of long coats, backpacks, hoods, uniforms,  sunglasses, hats—you get the picture. Help your dog learn there’s nothing to fear by wearing different styles of dress around them. This will help keep them from reacting when they encounter the same items on your guests or strangers out in the world. 

Don’t Punish Fear

It’s easy to be caught off guard when your normally easygoing pooch lashes out. But remember, aggression is usually the result of fear. From the age of five months old, dogs interpret anything unfamiliar as a threat, which can trigger a fight or flight response. Punishing this reaction only confirms their fear, ultimately reinforcing the behavior. When fear aggression rears its head, calmly remove your pup from the situation and ask for a different behavior (sit, stay, go lay down).

Socializing your new dog might seem daunting, but done right, it can be truly rewarding. Not only will your pooch learn some much-needed manners; also a wonderful opportunity for them to bond to you (and you to them). Take it one step at a time and remember—this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship. 

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How to help an anxious dog feel calm

Our pets have really gotten used to having their humans around this past year. Some fear that their pets will experience high levels of anxiety once we are back to our regular routines. Does your dog become anxious when left alone for a short time?  Anxiety in dogs can do everything from barking, non-stop to other destructive behaviors when left alone. There are many other reasons dogs can become anxious – everything from loud noises like fireworks, sirens, the doorbell etc. to past traumatic experiences.

Your dog’s response to anxiety can also be more subtle like withdrawing from activities he normally enjoys like playing with its toys or eating.  To help them deal with their anxiety, there are several things you can do to help.

The first thing you can do to help minimize separation anxiety when you eventually return to work, is to start leaving your dog home for short periods of time to build up his tolerance.  Plan to run some errands or go for an extended walk.  Even just driving around town for a while will work.  The idea is to build up your dog’s tolerance for being left alone before your schedule dramatically changes.   

My dog Harry seems to exhibit some nervousness at times and being left alone is on the list of things that make him uneasy.  The way I have chosen to address this is to make sure I am doing the following to help minimize his anxiety:

• Make sure he gets regular exercise through leash-walking. 
• Establish and maintain a regular routine for feeding, going outside, and going to bed. 
• Get help in maintaining his schedule when I cannot be there.
• Have a designated spot he can go to relax or nap when he does not want to engage with company or contractors.
• Make sure he has a busy toy when he will be alone for a few hours.  A small Kong with peanut butter does the trick.
• Leave a radio on with some light music to help mask outside noises.

Some of his daily routine includes getting up and outside at the same time each morning. You don’t need to be too extreme with wake-up times – pick a time that works for you and your dog.  Gauge the time based on the last time he was outside. I try to make this time no longer than 9 hours so they can relieve themselves.  Harry goes outside at 7:20am which is not too early compared to other times I have heard from clients.  Feeding times should also be consistent. I generally feed Harry at 7:30am and 5:30pm but these times can be adjusted to accommodate your work schedule.  Plan the walks around the times you when you need to get things done.  Lastly, spend some time playing with your dog when you can or just spend some time relaxing on the couch.

By having a thought-out routine planned for your dog, they know what to expect at various times of the day and get much satisfaction interacting with you. 

For more extreme cases of anxiety (separation or otherwise), you may need to enlist the help of your veterinarian or a dog behaviorist.  Your veterinarian will be able to determine if there are any underlying conditions that may be triggering your dog’s anxiety or at least rule them out.  They may also prescribe anti-anxiety medicine which can help. 

Like many things with your pets, one size does not fit all and sometimes you have to try a few things before you find the things that work best.  Start with what you can control now, like the exercise and scheduling and move onto to the other tactics.  With a little time and effort, you can help your dog adjust to his new normal. 

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10 Tips to Keep Your Pet Healthy, Safe & Happy All Winter Long

Baby, it’s cold outside! The chill of winter has finally hit CT, and just like us, your dogs are probably well aware—especially if they spend any time outdoors. And also like us, the harsh weather can adversely affect your furry family members if you’re not prepared for it. To keep your pets happy and healthy all season long, here are 10 winter-weather pet care tips to remember:

1. If it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for them. Many people think that their pets are built to withstand the cold, but this isn’t always the case. Just like us, our pets can suffer from the dangers of winter, and that includes frostbite and hypothermia. Short-haired dogs especially don’t have enough fur to protect them from the chill, and short-legged dogs may have more contact with the snow along their core. For dogs with medical conditions like arthritis and diabetes, the cold can also exacerbate their symptoms or prevent them from regulating their body temperature. 
   
   If your pooch is whining, seems anxious, shivering, slows down or stops moving, or begins to look for a place to burrow, bring them inside immediately: these are signs of hypothermia. In fact, on very cold days, it’s best to allow your animals outside just long enough to relieve themselves. No pet should be left outside to suffer.

2. Check & wipe those paws!  When temps drop, your dog’s paws are susceptible to cracking, and bleeding, and can accumule painful ice balls if there’s snow on the ground. They also are exposed to toxic deicers, walkway salt, and other chemical agents, which can lead to irritation or accidental ingestion. Be sure to check their paws for damage or signs of frostbite, and give them a wipe down to remove chemicals when they return inside. To prevent chapping and cracking, you can apply a little petroleum jelly or other paw protectant, or gear them up with a pair of properly-fitting booties before you head out. 

3. Scale Back Your Bathing & Grooming Schedule. Just like humans, winter can be rough on your dog’s skin. Between the cold air outdoors and the dry heat inside, your pooch’s skin can become dry and itchy. Limit baths to as little as possible to prevent washing away essential protective oils and consider using a humidifier to keep dryness at bay while inside. Likewise, refrain from clipping your dog’s coat too short — keep it to just a trim to keep ice and snow from clinging to longer fur.

4. Bundle Up! Short-haired dogs can especially benefit from a dog coat or sweater in the colder months, but if your long-haired dog seems bothered by the cold, consider getting one for them as well. In fact, since a damp coat can make a dog even colder, it’s smart to keep several on hand so you always have a dry one ready.

5. Give Them A Warm Bed. Homes can become drafty during the winter and that favorite snoozing spot can suddenly become less pleasant. Make sure your dog’s bed is in a warm and cozy location—you can even offer a few for them to choose their optimum comfort. Keep in mind, using space heaters or heated blankets and pads is not recommended for pets—they can cause unintentional burns.

6. Feed Them Well—and Appropriately. Dogs that spend active time outside burn a lot of extra energy just to stay warm. You may notice they’re asking for a little more food than usual—go ahead and give it to them, they need it to stay sated. For dogs that prefer to stay snug inside, keep their diets steady. Dogs don’t need added weight to stay warm; it’s more important to keep them at a healthy weight all year long. And always make sure they have plenty of fresh water available—staying hydrated can help with itchy, dry winter skin. 

7. Make Sure They are Collared & Chipped. While this is true year-round, it’s especially crucial in winter. Many pets get lost and disoriented because snow and ice skews the scents that help them to recognize their way home. A collar with identification and contact info as well as a registered microchip can help your furry friend get back to you should they become lost.
    
8. Leave Them Home. Just like in the summer, the temps in your car can change drastically. Your vehicle can turn into a refrigerator while you tend to your errands, leaving your dog uncomfortable, prone to frostbite and hypothermia, and in worst-case scenarios, they may even freeze to death. It’s simply not worth the risk—if you plan on leaving them in the car, don’t. Just leave them home instead.
    
9. Pet-Proof Your House. With so much time spent at home, there’s more or of a risk of poisoning. Make sure there’s no spilled antifreeze in the garage, keep chemicals and medications out of reach, and be mindful of houseplants and human foods that can be dangerous for your pets to eat. 
   
   
10. Get A Wellness Check. The winter is as good a time as any to check in with your veterinarian. A check-in during the winter can help you be mindful of existing medical conditions—especially if they worsen during the cold. 

Remember, dogs like to get cozy during the winter months just like us. Follow the ten tips above and you and your fur babies are sure to enjoy a happy, healthy, and comfy winter—and be ready to hit the great outdoors at the first signs of spring.

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Happy New Year – Welcome to the Dog Days Blog

Hi Everyone, 

Happy New Year!  I hope 2021 is off to a good start for you and wish you all the best this year.  2020 was definitely challenging for us all. 

Welcome to the new blog from Dog Days!  This space will be dedicated to providing you the best tips for pet care that I’ve picked up along the way not only as a pet owner but through my experience working with pets.  I’ll also be sharing tips and good advice from local veterinarians, dog trainers and other pet care professionals.  Topics will include exercise and health maintenance, fun activities to do with your dog and helpful hints when it comes to travel, grooming, where to shop and more. 

If you’ve been on my site before, you probably already know that I’ve been in business for the past 15 years providing dog walking, pet sitting, play groups and grooming to pets in West Hartford.  I sold the playgroup/grooming part of the business 3 years ago and now offer dog walking and pet sitting services for a variety of domestic pets.  Over the years I’ve worked with many dog trainers so that we would understand the behaviors they were working on to help reinforce the training. I’ve met with veterinarians to get necessary training on administering insulin for cats and pet dentists to get the latest instruction on caring for pets’ teeth.

If you have a pet question you’ve been looking to get answered, shoot us an e-mail and we’ll try our best to get you an answer.  One question I get asked a lot is – How much dog walking does my dog need?   This is a very good question because it is up to us as pet owners to ensure that are dogs get enough exercise to maintain a healthy weight and to avoid problem behaviors that can crop up when dogs are bored and have pent up energy.  This is not a one-size fits all type of answer though, so I’ll try and give you some guidelines so you have a starting point.

Check with your veterinarian if your dog has any condition which makes you unsure of his stamina.  Next consider your dog’s size/ breed.  Larger breeds need more exercise than the smaller ones.  Next consider your dog’s age and current level of activity.  You don’t want to jump in with an extended hike when your dog is not used to that.   Most dogs can go for a 20 minute walk without a problem.    If you have a healthy dog, (not obese etc.)  start with the 20 minute walks and see how they do.  Do this 2 times per day if you can.  If you’ve got family members willing to pitch in, you can spread your dog’s walks among the family members.  That brings me to my next suggestion, try and maintain a consistent schedule.  Dogs love routine.  Figure out what times of the day your dog needs walks that match up to the times you have available to walk them, and set up a schedule. 

Here’s what I do with my dog Harry:

AM walk          7:45AM – 15 minutes
AM walk 2       11AM – 20 minutes – dog walker
PM walk           3PM  – 20 minutes
PM walk           6PM  – 15 minutes.

Since Harry is a smaller dog, the shorter durations and increased frequency work well for him.  The short 15 minute walks are mainly potty breaks but he still gets a little exercise as well.  You can easily change this to suit you and your dog’s needs.  For example a larger fit dog could do  2-3 walks per  day at 30 minutes each .  By having a schedule you can enlist the help of family members or hire a professional service for one of the time slots when needed. 

What to watch for when setting your dog’s walk duration? If your dog frequently stops for no apparent reason or is panting a lot he/she may be signaling that they’re tired. By starting off slowly, you should be able to complete the walks without a problem.  You’ll want to monitor your dog once home to see how they behave.  If you notice lots of water consumption or any changes to physical habits, you should adjust down your walking time.  The goal is to establish a good schedule and build it up over time.  All this dog walking is not only good for your dog – it’s good for you too! 

Happy walking,

Bob

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