Jan 04

What Type of Pet to Choose?

What Kind Of Pet To Choose

What Types of Pets Should I Consider?

When it comes to choosing a pet for yourself and your family, there are many types available, and there are also many things to consider when making that choice. If you have a family, it is highly recommended that everyone discuss the reasons for wanting a pet and all of the needs and responsibilities involved in the decision.

Here are some of the most common types of pets from which to choose:

Dogs –  Dogs are my personal “pet of choice”.  They are loyal, happy, intelligent, obedient and loveable. They give us unconditional love.  They bond easily with their owner(s), and children love them.  They do, however, need proper care and they do require a lot of your time if they are to live happily and healthily.  There is a real responsibility to feed daily, walk or exercise daily, train (if you choose a puppy), and keep the dog healthy by ensuring that you take it for regular vet visits.

Cats –  Cats have been desirable pets since the days of the Egyptians. They can be less demanding and can easily adjust to a variety of lifestyles and living spaces. Every cat is an individual, so it’s important to take time to choose the one who’s right for you. There is a popular belief that if you’re patient, the right cat will pick you. Keep that in mind if you visit a shelter to look for a cat to add to your family.

Fish – Fish are another popular house pet choice. They are beautiful to look at and they have a tranquil, calming effect while watching them. I believe that some people have a sort of “green thumb” with fish, while others do not. They are definitely low maintenance, but need regular care, including feeding them, changing the water at certain times, and cleaning their tank regularly. There is no real bonding with fish, but they do seem to react to your feeding them. It is important to research the different types of fish and their needs.

Birds –  Parrots, Cockatoos, Parakeets and Cockatiels are the most common birds that are kept as pets. They usually bond to one member of the family, which should be a serious consideration if you have a family. Generally, the larger the species, the longer they live, so you need to consider the lifelong commitment it takes to care for pet birds. Birds need their cages cleaned and fresh food provided every day. Weekly cleaning and disinfecting the bird’s cage is also needed.  Some pet birds can be very loud, and sometimes messy (seeds, feathers, droppings), and that is another consideration.  Parrots and parakeets do make interesting pets, as they can be taught to talk, and birds in general are very social pets.

Hamsters, Gerbils and Guinea Pigs  –  These small pets for are good for apartment dwellers, are easy to care for, and they do not require a lot of time or attention. Guinea Pigs are the most social and are the most suitable for children. They are also easiest to find if they escape from their cages. Hamsters typically live about two to three years, are nocturnal, and need plenty of safe chew toys.  They love running on wheels and through tunnels. Gerbils are not ideal for young children as they tend to nip.  They love to burrow and climb, and love exercise wheels and running in hamster balls to explore.

These small animals do have a strong odor, especially if their cages are not cleaned frequently. The most odiferous of this group are hamsters, the least are gerbils.

Rabbits  –  Rabbits make wonderful pets in the right situations. They are adorable when they are babies, are quiet, clean, and can be trained (even litter box trained). They bond closely with their owners and can get along nicely with cats and some dogs. Pet rabbits, when housed indoors and cared for properly, can live eight to 12 years or even longer. Small-breed rabbits can easily live into their teens when they are cared for properly.

Reptiles –  Small reptile pets are not for everyone, but if you enjoy exotic reptiles, then this type of pet may be the right choice. Reptiles are capable of recognizing people by voice, sight and smell, and many are capable of learning. Some species actually benefit from interaction with humans. When cared for properly, all can live a long life. The cost of a reptile is usually the least expensive part of keeping one. The initial cost should include an enclosure, special heating and lighting, essential furnishings, food and water supplies, nutritional supplements, housing and food, and veterinary visits.

Preparation is priceless when it comes to committing to the care and guardianship of another living being. Remember that your decision is an important one.  It will affect your life, your family’s life, and the life of the pet you have chosen.

Good luck in choosing your new pet! Below is a video to help you make that decision, enjoy.

 

Cheri

 

Dec 28

Choosing The Right Pet

Tips for Choosing the Right Pet for You and Your Family

Choosing the right pet is an important decision, and many factors should be considered when you are ready to make the move to get a pet for yourself and your family.

Remember that the needs of an animal change with each stage of their life, so this may be important in your decision as to whether you want to choose a young pet or a mature pet. Young pets need lots of attention and training, particularly housetraining for dogs and cats.  Mature pets may already be obedience or housetrained but may take a little more time bonding, depending on their history and whether they have been mistreated in the past.  It is important to be patient with new pets when introducing them into your family environment.

Every pet is unique, and certain species and breeds have distinct characteristics that can help you determine which pet is right for you.

 

Important things to remember are:

Do not impulse shop for a pet, and be sure to take time to learn about the kind of pet you are considering to bring into your home. The best places to start are your local animal shelters and animal rescue organizations. There are many, many wonderful animals that are in need of a good, loving home.

Ensure that everyone in the family agrees on the choosing of the pet, and match your pet to your home environment and your lifestyle. If you choose a dog, be sure that you have a safe, fenced-in yard, and if you don’t, ensure that you have the time and inclination to walk your pet regularly.

Consider whether it is the right time in your life to get a pet. If you have other pets, will everyone get along?  Also consider the age of your children, or your own health, as those factors may affect what type and age of pet is best.

Examine your reason for wanting a pet, and also decide if you are able to meet the pet’s specific needs. Do some research online or at the library to see how much care your pet will need and factor in you have enough time to properly feed and care for it.

Consider the cost of the pet, which besides the initial cost, will incur expenses with time. It is important to remember that a good diet, veterinary care, grooming, and pet sitting (both depending on the pet) will be a part of your financial responsibility for as long as the pet is in your care.

Choosing The Right Pet

I cannot stress this last point enough:  Understand the commitment

Ask yourself whether you’re ready to care for a cat or a dog for more than 10 years. Dogs can live up to an average of 15-16 years, depending on the breed. Horses, parrots, and some turtles can live significantly longer. Dogs and cats require regular and intensive interaction with people or other dogs and cats. Pets also require a clean, safe, and healthy environment as well as an attentive and caring owner.

If you plan to marry, have children, move, join the military, go away to college, relocate overseas, or care for an elderly relative, you will need to take these possible lifestyle changes into consideration when selecting a pet.

Owning a pet is a big responsibility, and it will change certain aspects of your life, but that pet will reward you with unconditional love for many years to come.

 

My next article will cover the different types and choices of pets and what makes each one special.

Cheri

Dec 21

Winter Pet Care

Caring For Your Pet This Winter

Winter Pet Care

Pet owners who live in areas of cold winter climates should be aware that there are things to remember and put into place to keep their pets safe and healthy when the temperature drops.

Be aware of your pet’s tolerance to cold weather and adjust accordingly.  This is especially true for older and sick pets. Arthritic or elderly pets may have difficulty walking in snow and ice and are more prone to slipping or falling.

Common sense tells us that long-haired dogs are more tolerant to the cold, but they are still at risk in cold winter weather. Short-haired pets feel the cold faster, and short-legged dogs become cold faster because their tummies are more likely to come into contact with snow-covered ground.

Pets with diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, or other medical problems may have a more difficult time regulating their body temperatures and may be more susceptible to problems relating to temperature extremes.  The same can be said for very young and very old pets. Consult with your veterinarian if you need help in determining your pet’s temperature limitations.

It is a common belief that dogs and cats are more resistant to cold temperatures than people because of their fur, but this is generally untrue.  They are, like people, susceptible to hypothermia and frostbite.  Thick-coated dog breeds, like huskies, are more tolerant, but no pet should be left outside for long periods of time in below freezing temperatures.

Pets should be kept inside whenever possible in cold winter weather, but if you are unable to do so, provide him or her with a warm, solid shelter with a door positioned away from prevailing winds.  The floor of the shelter should be off the ground and the bedding should be thick, dry, and changed regularly to provide a warm, healthy environment.  Space heaters and heat lamps should never be used because of the risk of fires or burns to the pet.  If you use a heated pet mat, use with caution. Always provide fresh, non-frozen water and remember that pets need more calories in winter to keep them warm, so give your pet plenty of food.

Check your pet’s paws for ice and snow accumulation. Iceballs between their toes and pads can cause injury.  Try to keep the fur growing between their toes clipped as this will reduce the chance of “popsicle toes”. If your dog will tolerate booties, that would be a good way to protect her paws and toes.  It takes a little practice for pups to become accustomed to having something on their feet, so be patient.

When the snow is deep, pets will need to go outdoors for potty breaks. One of the first things I used to do when it snowed was shovel a pee path for my Betsy.  I tried to shovel as close to the ground as possible so that she could smell the earth and encouraged her to use that spot.  If your pet is able to use pee pads or pee patches indoors, that’s the best situation.

Happy pets winter bring them inside

Important!!!

1.Beware of cats or other animals sheltering under vehicles!!  Always bang on the hood of your vehicle before starting it up in cold winter temps.
2.Antifreeze is deadly to pets!! Cats, in particular, can be poisoned by very small amounts…just by walking through spilled antifreeze and licking its paws during his daily cleaning routine. Be sure that your car is not leaking antifreeze.
3.Ice Melt and De-icers on paws can be toxic!! Wipe your pet’s paws, legs, and belly after walks in snowy, icy weather to remove chemicals from ice melter products. This reduces the risk of your pet being sickened or poisoned if they should lick their feet or fur once back inside.  Use pet-safe de-icers on your property to protect your pets and others in your neighborhood.
4.Be prepared for power outages!!  Cold weather also brings the risk of severe storms, blizzards, and power outages.  Be sure to include your pet in your emergency plans.  Include enough food, water, and any medications needed for your pet in your emergency kit to get through at least five days.

Wintering with your pet is mostly common sense.  Remember that if you are cold, chances are that your pet is cold, too.  So, snuggle up and keep your pet healthy, warm, and safe this winter!

happy-pets-blog-winter-pet-care-2

Cheri

Dec 14

Holiday Pet Safety Tips

Keeping Your Pets Safe During The Holidays

The holiday season is a special time of year, bringing families and friends together for happy times of sharing fun and creating memories. As our pets are also a part of our families, here are some tips to keep them safe and healthy during the holiday season.

Christmas Tree Tips

Place your tree in a corner, and if possible, secure it to the wall or something sturdy so that it cannot be knocked over. If there is a way to prevent your dog or cat from jumping on or in the tree, use whatever plan works best for everyone’s safety.

For live trees, clean up pine needles regularly, as they can be toxic and can puncture a puppy or kitten’s intestines if ingested.

Hang tinsel, ribbons, and garland out of your pet’s reach. Cats are especially intrigued by these decorations, and if ingested these trimmings could cause intestinal blockage.  The same is true of edible ornaments such as cranberry or popcorn strings.

Do not let pets drink water from the tree water, as it could harbor bacteria or contain chemicals from the tree trunk.

Be careful of extension cords for tree lights, as these sometimes look like chew toys to pets. Either tape them to the wall or cover them, and be sure to unplug them when you are away from home.

Holiday Plants

Many of the plants we have in our homes during the holidays can be poisonous to pets. Holly, mistletoe, lilies, amaryllis, and poinsettias can all lead to serious health problems in dogs and cats (some are highly poisonous!), so keep them out of reach in your homes.

Candles and Fragrances

Never leave lighted candles unattended and within reach of your pets.  Liquid potpourri and sachets, which are popular during the holiday season, can be dangerous to pets if ingested.

Food Hazards

Resist the temptation to feed your pets rich holiday foods. It might be a good idea to feed your pet his or her regular meal before guests arrive for holiday celebrations so that they will be less likely to beg for “people” food.  Also beware of feeding bones that can splinter, and of course, the foods that are known to be harmful to pets: onions, grapes, raisins, chocolate, and coffee grounds and beans. Rich, fatty foods like fatty meats, turkey skin, and gravy can bring on stomach upsets and may cause pancreatitis. Be sure to remove leftover food as soon as possible and keep pets away from the garbage after a holiday meal.

Visitors and Stress

Holidays can be stressful for all of us, and pets are no exception.  Some pets do well with visitors and behave themselves, while others may be fearful or even aggressive.

If your pet is fearful, a quiet room away from the celebration with food and water available will help provide a comfortable environment.

Aggressive pets may also need to be put in a separate room, or perhaps having them stay at a friend’s house during the party may be necessary.

When inviting visitors, be sure to let them know that you have a pet. If these people have allergies, they will be alerted to the situation.

Be sure to spend quality time with your pet during the holiday celebration season, as they are creatures of habit, and they do not understand your changes in routine or the hustle and bustle of the season.  During and after all the holiday festivities, don’t forget to relax and spend time with your pet. That’s the best gift of all!


*My last tip is my own personal promise that I make to myself every holiday season:  I gather extra or unwanted towels, blankets, and rugs from my neighbors, co-workers, and my family members.  I then take them to my local animal shelter to keep the animals there warm and comfortable during the winter months.

So, why not make the holidays more comfortable for homeless pets? Contact your local animal shelter to see if you can donate bedding, food, toys, kitty litter, or your time.

Wishing you and your pets Happy Holidays!

Cheri

Dec 07

The Benefits of Owning a Pet

The Advantages of Pet Ownership

Happy Family With Pet

As most pet owners know, there are many benefits that having and caring for a pet can bring into our lives.  I was surprised to learn some new things, and I would like to share them with you.

Benefits for children

Pets provide a sense of responsibility for children – they learn to care for their pet as they learn  that the pet is dependent upon their owners to feed, groom, love, and care for them.

Pets help children learn – It was shown that children often read to their pets or have conversations with their pets because pets are non-judgmental. Therefore, children are more relaxed and do not feel pressured when around their pets.  Pets are great listeners!

Pets provide comfort and encourage nurturing in children – When children are sad, angry, or afraid, they often turn to their pets for comfort and solace.

Pets build family bonds – Pets help families grow stronger and closer.  Very often, a pet is the focus of activities that families do together, both in the home and outdoors.

Pets provide an important health benefit to children –  I was not aware that children exposed early on to animals (most specifically furry and feathered pets) tend to develop stronger immune systems  overall.  A study by Dennis Ownby, MD, a pediatrician and head of the allergy and immunology department of the Medical College of Georgia shows that having multiple pets actually decreases a child’s risk of developing certain allergies.  Children who grow up on farms  and who are around animals usually don’t have allergies.  No one knows for sure why this is the case, but it seems to be a natural immunotherapy of sorts.

Benefits of Pet Ownership for Adults

Pets make us healthier –CDC and NIH studies have shown that pet owners exhibit decreased blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels, all of which can decrease the risk of heart attacks.  The care of some pets involves outdoor exercise, which is a definite plus in healthier living for owners.

Pets improve socialization skills – Whether it be meeting and interacting with other pet owners at a dog park or training classes, at the vet’s office, or an online site, people who own pets find and create a social bond with other pet owners.

Pets combat feelings of loneliness and isolation – This is particularly true in the elderly and the unwell.  Pets provide companionship and a sense of purpose, which is very important. I have seen this firsthand in being a Pets On Wheels volunteer for many years and with seeing seniors in my neighborhood with pets.  The transformation and difference in an elderly person who was once alone and who now has a pet for a companion is amazing.

Pets both distract you and keep you present – This seems a little confusing, so here’s an example: A friend had a medical condition that required a biopsy.  She began to worry and stress over what the results might show, but she had to take care of her diabetic cat and be very careful of his feeding and his insulin injections.  She found that taking care of her cat made her forget about worrying about her own issues and kept her thoughts in the present.  Her stress level was greatly lessened and she remained calm until she got her test results…..which, happily, were normal.

Last, and certainly not least, pets give us unconditional love and make us smile.  These simple gifts they give us are priceless. They are an important source of love and friendship and they can help us enjoy a much fuller and more rewarding life.

Cheri

Nov 28

Welcome to Happy Pets

Healthy and Happy Pets

Me and my Betsy

Hello and welcome to the Happy Pets page!  I hope to provide you with information on how to care for pets, the advantages of owning and caring for pets, and other pet-related topics that will enlighten, inform, and even entertain you.

I have had a lifetime of being around and/or owning pets, most of them dogs.  From a very early age, I learned of the priceless gift of unconditional love they give to us.

Before my parents met, my Dad was stationed in Germany and Belgium during WWII, and while in Germany he traded sugar, flour, eggs, and coffee to a German cook for a little black Standard Poodle puppy.  When he flew back home to the USA, he brought the puppy with him, hidden in his duffle bag.  His Mom, who became my Grandmother, took care of the puppy when my Dad and Mom married, and after I was born I stayed with my Grandma quite a bit while my parents worked.

Thusly, I spent the first three to four years of my life with that wonderful Poodle.  I should mention that his name, given to him by his first owner, the German cook, was Arco von Portenfels.  We all called him Arco, and he was incredibly intelligent.  I can remember having tea parties with him, pouring the pretend tea, but having real cupcakes, baked by my Grandma, for our snack.  I always shared with Arco, and he would sit there at my little play table for our tea parties like a perfect gentleman.  He was my friend and my protector, and I loved him like a big brother.

My first doggie – Arco von Portenfels. He is why I love dogs so much.

Having an experience as a very young child with a wonderful, gentle and loving dog was the beginning of my love for animals, dogs in particular.  I believe that it made me a more caring, respectful person in my growing years.

Throughout the years, my family and I had different pets, and my parents were also very understanding and respectful of animals and their care.  From turtles, fish, cats, rabbits, parakeets, to some extraordinary dogs, I have been fortunate to have had some great pets in my life.  Even now, with my Betsy at my side while I write, I am thankful to have loved and cared for them all.

It is my hope that I can help someone who needs some advice or an answer to a question about their own pet.

Again, welcome and thank you for visiting!    

Cheri