Oliver ... Playing Let the Cat Out of the Bag

Oliver came to a local rescue shelter in Medina, Ohio with a badly broken leg. It was thought possibly he was abused by his previous owner. No one knew his story, and he wasn't talking. It wasn't until he was in his new fur-ever home that opinions of his injuries started to change. It was decided when he took a leap off the second story to the family room below and broke his leg a second time, his first broken leg was a result of his daring attitude and exuberant play. His permanent limp slows him down just a bit, but he still plays as robustly as ever. To the delight of his new family and everyone who knows him, he has now taken to napping in the sunshine rather than leaping over banisters.

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Tips for Winter Proofing Your Dogs Paws

As a pet sitter, I spend most of my days driving from one job to the next. One sight that always brings me pleasure is seeing people walking their dogs, even on a cold winter's day. During the winter months, your dog is faced with a set of unique challenges that can be especially brutal on his feet. Not only are they at risk for frostbite, drying and cracking, but are also exposed to toxic salt and chemicals used on sidewalks and streets. A few safety tips can make winter excursions with your best four-legged friend safe and enjoyable.

Neat Feet

Grooming is essential for healthy paws.To help prevent ice balls from forming, keep hair trimmed around the paws and in between the toes. Trim the hair between the paw pads so that it is even with the paw. Keep nails short. Before the walk, apply a thin layer of a protective balm, such as Bag Balm. If you cannot find Bag Balm, Vaseline is a good alternative. After the walk, clean your dog’s paws to remove snow, ice and ice melt. For quick convenience, keep dog friendly wipes by the door. Inspect the pads for any cuts, and apply another thin layer of balm to moisturize the pads and soothe any irritation they may have.

Salt and Ice Melts

Rock salt and other salt-based ice melters contain sodium chloride or potassium chloride which can heat up to 175 degrees when exposed to water, ice, and low temperatures. They will freeze to a dog's paws and fur. When he is inside with higher temperatures, these salts can burn the skin causing ulcers and redness to tissue which can lead to bacterial infections. Dogs can also develop intestinal problems and inflammation of the stomach (gastritis) from licking the salt-based products off their paws. Try to keep from walking on sidewalks and streets that have been heavily treated, and do not let your dog eat slush or drink from puddles. Consider using a pet friendly ice melt on your driveway and sidewalks.

Dog Boots

Dog boots will protect paws from snow, ice, toxins and frostbite. Boots should be snug enough so they do not slip off, yet not too tight that they constrict the paw. Although there are plenty of cute-outfit-coordinating-boots out there, make sure you choose a design for warmth, protection and comfort. On an average it takes two weeks for dogs to get used to the feel of boots. Start off with small, positive training sessions in the house. Offer plenty of praise for your dog's efforts. Gradually increase the length of the training sessions in the house and outside, until your dog will tolerate the boots and happily trot along beside you.

As long as you apply 'safe paw habits', there is no reason that you and your dog can't continue your walks together, even during the winter months.

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The Tale a Cat's Tail Tells

1. THE QUESTION MARK
   Look at me! I'm friendly. Do you want to be friends? Let's Play!!!
2. STRAIGHT UP
   I am content and confident. This is my home. I want to be your friend because I'm a happy cat.
3. WRAPPED AROUND ANOTHER ANIMAL OR YOU
   I want to hug you! You are my friend. I love you.
4. SWISHING SLOWLY BACK AND FORTH
   I can't talk to you right now, I'm focused on something really important. Is that a mouse or a leaf?
5. LOW TO THE GROUND
   I'm not sure. Let me think about it. Are you friend or foe?
6. WHIPPING BACK AND FORTH
   You frighten me and you're making me angry. You best stay away!
7. TUCKED BETWEEN LEGS
   OK now, I'm really afraid. I'm feeling unsure and nervous. Something's just not right here.
8. PUFFED UP
   I'm really, really mad and maybe a bit frightened, but I'm a whole lot bigger than you now! You better proceed with caution!

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5 Signs Your Dog May Be in Pain

1. LOSS OF APPETITE
   It is one thing to skip a meal or two, but refusal to eat for days is a sign that your dog is in distress and needs medical attention.
2. EXCESSIVE GROOMING 
   A dog will groom a source of pain, whether it's a visible wound or not. Inspect the area carefully, and follow up with veterinary care, if your dog persists in grooming a localized area.
3. ACCIDENTS IN THE HOUSE
   When an otherwise "housebroken" dog starts to have accidents, this can have many different causes...such as a urinary tract infection or being too painful to get outside in time.
4. BEHAVIORAL CHANGES
   Your once friendly dog has become shy and hides and avoids being petted or shows aggression towards family and friends. He may snap at you. This is his way of communicating he hurts and does not want to be touched.
5. HEAVY PANTING
   If it's on a hot day or after strenuous exercise, this is normal, but if it comes out
   of nowhere, heavy panting is a sign your dog is stressed possibly due to pain.

Since a dog cannot tell us what they are feeling, being aware of early signs of pain can lead to treatment of a condition before it worsens, and a comfortable outcome your dog. Learn to listen to what your dog cannot say. By doing so, you both can enjoy a happy, peaceful and joyful life together.

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Keep Calm and Carry a Blankie

Why do some dogs carry a blanket? Literally because it's a "security blanket" . . . a little piece of home and happiness that is comforting and makes him feel secure, safe and loved. He may carry it for a little while, when you first get home, then leaves it because now he has the real thing . . . you. When you're not there, the blanket is his happy place; a reminder of you and all things good in his life. Carrying a blanket is not an issue, unless he becomes possessive and aggressive towards you, when you try to take it away. Otherwise, let him have his blankie. He will be happier for it and so will you.

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True Love

1. Is not a box of chocolates
2. Is not a card
3. Is not a dozen roses
4. Is bundling up you and your dog for a walk

5. And is with you every step of the way.

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5 SIGNS YOUR CAT LOVES YOU

1. Slow blinking
2. Tummy up
3. Head butts
4. Kneading
5. Love bites

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