Archive for June, 2010
Pets Can Add New Life
Many of you may have experience the new life a pet can bring into a home, especially to the Elderly. Recently I visited my aging parents and I was pleasantly surprised at what I found and wanted to share it.
My parents are in their mid 80′s and have not owned a pet for many years. They claimed they were too busy traveling etc. to be tied down by pet ownership. Then 2 weeks ago, they decided they would “just look” at some puppies. My mother has been assisted by an electric wheelchair for years and does not get around well without it. But, when they met the dog broker in a restaurant parking lot, she did not hesitate to walk all the way across the parking lot and back too see the litter of pups. After scooping up the little runt of the litter, she dared anyone to “pry it out of her hands.” So began her new way of life.
Mother wakes up eagerly every morning to be greeted by her new bundle of joy. Miss Lady, the puppy also waits eagerly to hear her wheelchair coming down the hall and runs to greet her. Mom gets out of her chair and fixes 3 puppy meals a day, takes her outside often, and even spoon feeds Lady in her lap. After each meal she wipes her face and wiskers, and wraps her in a towel for a nap. My parents have even fashioned a ramp for Lady so she can walk up it into their rocking chairs so they don’t have to bend down and pick her up. I was especially amused at them both laughing at the new pup as she chewed on Mom’s nice pair of shoes. Who would have thought? This little blessing was just what the Dr. ordered. At age 84 the mothering instinct has taken over and my once home-bound mother now looks to the care of this new family member as top priority in her life. Lady has brought new life back into their home. To share similar stories or to leave a Pet Tribute to a beloved pet, please visit our website.
Pets and OTC Pain Killers
Have you ever wondered if you could give your dog or cat or even a horse a human over-the-counter pain killer? Would it hurt? It is so much more convenient than calling the Vet and having to go down there and pick up some medicine. There is A LOT of controversy on the subject. Some say yes Aspirin and even Naproxen are okay, others say ”NO” to everything – call a Vet. After a lot of research, my personal recommendation is a definite NO, don’t do it. Especially if you are a cat owner. They seem especially sensitive to OTC pain killers.
It is true that some Vets recommend Aspirin for arthritis in dogs. But even a baby aspirin can be fatal to a very small dog. Aspirin prescribed by your Vet in the right dosage may be okay, but too much Aspirin can lead to Anemia and Bleeding Ulcers.
Ibuprofen can cause extreme stomach and gastronal distress in dogs. It can cause stomach Ulcers among many other problems. A 200 mg tablet can be toxic to a small dog.
NEVER give a pet Acetominophen (Tylenol) it can be extremely toxic and 2 extra strength tablets can be deadly. If you pet is in pain, don’t hesitate to call your Vet immediately. He will be able to correctly diagnose the cause of the pain and the correct treatment for your kind and size of pet.
To add some spice in your pet’s life, consider getting a personalized, custom-embroidered humorous Pet Bandana. Create on of your own or choose one of our many sayings. Is your pet the “Talk of the Town” ?
Dogs, Glucosamine & Chondroitin
What is Glucosamine and Chondroitin and what do they do? Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate are fast becoming the most widely used supplements for dogs with Arthritis. The reason is that Arthritis is the most common health problem diagnosed by Veterinarians today. Unfortunately many pet owners fail to recognize or ignore the soreness and discomfort that arthritis causes until arthritic changes have progressed into the pet’s joints significantly. The widespread availability of nutraceuticals such as Glucosamine and Chondroitin have proven to be significant contributors in easing pain and discomfort in our canine companions. These two natural supplements have been found to actually promote healing and tissue repair in dogs that have arthritis. A welcomed change from products that just treat the symptoms.
Before starting any natural supplement to improve your dog’s health, always consult with your Vet first. They have the knowledge and the lasted up-to-date studies on the supplements that are right for your dog’s type of Arthritis and the proper dosage. As a pet owner, he/she can help you improve your pet’s quality of life. You can make a difference in your pet’s life during the golden years. Humorous and light hearted custom dog bandanas are a fun way to dress up your furry companion while on outings.
Dogs and Glucosamine
Trying to start your dog with arthritis on a supplement regimen can seem overwhelming. So, I will suggest a few ways to get started. One of the most popular and most effective supplements for pet arthritis is Glucosamine. Dogs with arthritis or known joint problems can usually benefit from some sort of Glucosamine-type therapy. This should include oral supplements that contain Glucosamine (Sulfate or hcl) chondroitin sulfate, green lipped mussel (perna canaliculus) hyaluronic acid, or a combination of these. These supplements are the only supplements that actually help protect the joints rather than just treat the symptoms of arthritis. But remember, all dogs respond differently to different supplements. Find one that works for YOUR dog, instead of relying on what works for others( but this may be a good place to start). Start with a high dosage of Glucosamine and if you get results, then you can try reducing the dosage to see if your dog will do well on less. Be sure to consult with a Veterinarian to make sure the diagnosis and treatment of your pet’s arthritis is optimum for your dog. There are so many forms of arthritis, a trained professional should be included in your treatment plan. If you would like to make a personal tribute to your furry family member, click the link to our website.
Pet Arthritis and Exercise
There are many arthritis supplements on the market today, some even claim they can cure arthritis. Supplements are a wonderful addition to help a pet that has arthritis, but they are not a cure-all. One of the best tips to getting your pet into the best of health is exercise.
Before starting any supplement for arthritis, make sure your pet is on a good holistic food, and make sure they are getting plenty of exercise. Exercise the KEY to maintaining good pet health and helping alleviate arthritis symptoms.
After you have your pet on a good, premium pet food, and you have established a regular exercise regimen, THEN add a high quality natural arthritis supplement into their diet. When choosing a supplement, make sure it is all natural and has Glucosamine and MSM in it. Also look for supplements with high levels of quality Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids derived from Fish Oil.
Just remember, it is the healthy combination of quality food, plenty of exercise and then supplementation all working together to get your pet in the best of health. For more pet care tips and to leave a Pet Tribute to your 4-legged loved one, visit www.treasuredfriendmemorials.com