Monday, December 21, 2009
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
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Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Pet Health Insurance, Is it Health Assurance?
These days most people can hardly afford their own health insurance – so it begs the question are you really going to insure your pet? Much like today’s health care crisis there are misconceptions, misinformation and preconceived notions when it comes to health insurance for your pet. Most pet owners don’t have it or think they can’t afford it, very much like our own health care. I have it for our dog and it's worked out pretty well for us.
Here’s the deal in a nutshell. If you get a new dog, relatively young you may think I don’t need it. But actually that is the best time to buy it. Like all insurance it is cheaper then and they have no pre-existing conditions to preclude. The other thing is there are a whole slew of shots, spay/neuter, that is mostly covered by the insurance. At least on my insurance it is. We have VPI, but there are plenty of good plans out there. I do like the ease of which I can submit my claims, I just fax it over and I’m done. It does take a long time usually 2 months for them to pay me back. But I just keep a copy of the claim on my bulletin board so I don’t forget. The other thing I like is that I can take him to any doctor I choose, it’s not like an HMO where you have to go to a provider. Having the right policy could make the difference in a life-and-death decision. If you enroll your pet at a young age, it’s possible to have coverage that lasts your pet’s entire life.
My plan has covered most everything I’ve submitted. Even when Sam got stung by a bee, they paid a portion of the emergency vet bill – not a huge amount, mind you, but I was happy they paid something.
If you decide to look into it be thorough and read the fine print. Most importantly go with a company that’s been around and appears to be staying around. Also, talk to your veterinarian. Many of them offer packages and plans of their own that are cost effective. Look at pet stores for offers on vaccines, basic well care, etc. Pet events and expos also offer these things. For injury and illness, a health plan is a very good idea .
Is the insurance company pet friendly, pet experienced – do they have trained staff? This is important I think, because I want to do business with people who share my pet philosophy. I want to know I have a useful resource.
What is the rate structure and/or guarantee? I want to be sure I won’t get a rate increase or be dropped for using the insurance.
Are benefits renewable? Some companies will not exclude covered conditions that were treated during your policy term. policies have benefit allowances that renew with each new incident. . any companies severely limit what conditions they cover or how much they will reimburse. First example: One major company won’t cover any condition it deems genetic or congenital in nature. Second example: Another company will pay for a lifelong condition the year it is diagnosed, but excludes it the following years. Third example: Another company another limits the payment per illness to only $500. READ THE FINE PRINT
How are reimbursements structured? Know what is and isn’t covered and at what percentage.
Does the company specify coverage exclusion – what isn’t covered?
Does the company provide broad coverage? Be aware of “extra” coverage that other pet health insurance providers may require you to buy.
Are you limited to a veterinary network or required to pre-certify? Most policies let you take your animal where you choose – but make sure.
Overall, I take comfort knowing that I have coverage for my dog should something serious happen to him and also for all the little incidental expenses that come along. I’ve done the math and for me pet health insurance is health assurance.
Here’s the deal in a nutshell. If you get a new dog, relatively young you may think I don’t need it. But actually that is the best time to buy it. Like all insurance it is cheaper then and they have no pre-existing conditions to preclude. The other thing is there are a whole slew of shots, spay/neuter, that is mostly covered by the insurance. At least on my insurance it is. We have VPI, but there are plenty of good plans out there. I do like the ease of which I can submit my claims, I just fax it over and I’m done. It does take a long time usually 2 months for them to pay me back. But I just keep a copy of the claim on my bulletin board so I don’t forget. The other thing I like is that I can take him to any doctor I choose, it’s not like an HMO where you have to go to a provider. Having the right policy could make the difference in a life-and-death decision. If you enroll your pet at a young age, it’s possible to have coverage that lasts your pet’s entire life.
My plan has covered most everything I’ve submitted. Even when Sam got stung by a bee, they paid a portion of the emergency vet bill – not a huge amount, mind you, but I was happy they paid something.
If you decide to look into it be thorough and read the fine print. Most importantly go with a company that’s been around and appears to be staying around. Also, talk to your veterinarian. Many of them offer packages and plans of their own that are cost effective. Look at pet stores for offers on vaccines, basic well care, etc. Pet events and expos also offer these things. For injury and illness, a health plan is a very good idea .
Is the insurance company pet friendly, pet experienced – do they have trained staff? This is important I think, because I want to do business with people who share my pet philosophy. I want to know I have a useful resource.
What is the rate structure and/or guarantee? I want to be sure I won’t get a rate increase or be dropped for using the insurance.
Are benefits renewable? Some companies will not exclude covered conditions that were treated during your policy term. policies have benefit allowances that renew with each new incident. . any companies severely limit what conditions they cover or how much they will reimburse. First example: One major company won’t cover any condition it deems genetic or congenital in nature. Second example: Another company will pay for a lifelong condition the year it is diagnosed, but excludes it the following years. Third example: Another company another limits the payment per illness to only $500. READ THE FINE PRINT
How are reimbursements structured? Know what is and isn’t covered and at what percentage.
Does the company specify coverage exclusion – what isn’t covered?
Does the company provide broad coverage? Be aware of “extra” coverage that other pet health insurance providers may require you to buy.
Are you limited to a veterinary network or required to pre-certify? Most policies let you take your animal where you choose – but make sure.
Overall, I take comfort knowing that I have coverage for my dog should something serious happen to him and also for all the little incidental expenses that come along. I’ve done the math and for me pet health insurance is health assurance.
Pets & Travel
Here's the latest research from AAA on vehicles that are the safest for your pets. Taken into consideration are pet safety restraints, tri-climate controls, treat holders (yes for your pets), back up cameras. Bark Buckle Up teamed up with Edmunds.com to find which vehicles were the most conducive to travelling with Fido.
In alphabetical order:
1. Dodge Journey
2. Ford Flex
3. GMC Acadia
4. Hyundai Tucson
5. Jeep Liberty
6. Kia Borrego
7. Mazda 5
8. Mitsubishi Outlander
9. Subaru Tribeca
10. Volvo XC7
In alphabetical order:
1. Dodge Journey
2. Ford Flex
3. GMC Acadia
4. Hyundai Tucson
5. Jeep Liberty
6. Kia Borrego
7. Mazda 5
8. Mitsubishi Outlander
9. Subaru Tribeca
10. Volvo XC7
Pets and Your Health
Columnist Dr. Pauline Wallin is a psychologist and life coach. Here’s what she has to say about pets and the people who love them;
Pets are cute and cuddly, and fun to have around -- which explains why more than 70 percent of all American households have at least one. Despite the tough economy, we will collectively spend more than $45 billion on our pets this year, an increase of $2.1 billion over last year.
For most Americans, pets are not just animals; they are full-fledged family members. They pose in family photos. They receive gifts at holidays. They go on vacation with their owners. Some pets are even named as heirs in their owners' wills. And when couples break up, pets are increasingly becoming the focus of custody battles in divorce court.
Why are we so attached to our pets?
According to John Archer, author of "Evolution and Human Behavior," pets evoke responses of caring and love similar to what parents feel for their children.
They make us feel valued and important. They offer unconditional affection. It doesn't matter whether you've won the lottery or were fired from a job -- they love you just the same. They provide rhythm to our lives and give us vicarious pleasure in watching them play.
It's common to view pets as extensions of ourselves. Some people go a little overboard by buying designer clothes, jewelry and spa treatments for their pets. More frugal enthusiasts express their passions by setting up online accounts for their pets on MySpace, Facebook and Twitter.
If you've never had a pet, you might think that these pet owners are beyond fanatics. But consider that companion animals provide many benefits. Here are a few research findings:
Emotional benefits
Pets provide companionship and reduce loneliness. In fact, some folks prefer the company of animals over people. A study of nursing home residents in St. Louis found that those who spent time alone with a dog over a period of six weeks reported feeling less lonely than those who spent time with two other residents and the dog. A study of college students found that pets played an important role in helping them through difficult times.
The presence of pets helps us cope with stress. In a study measuring physiological reactions (heart rate and blood pressure) to both mental and physical stress, pet owners with their dog or cat in the room fared better than non-pet owners with a friend in the room. They had lower baseline indicators of stress, experienced smaller spikes in their stress reactions, and returned to baseline more quickly than the non-pet owners.
Pets promote development of social skills in children. Robert Poresky's studies of preschoolers in Kansas showed that the greater their involvement with their pets, the higher their scores on measures of empathy and social skills. This is not surprising because in order to have a successful interaction with animals, kids need to be more aware of nonverbal communication signals.
Physical benefits
Several studies have shown that pet owners enjoy better health. They have shorter hospital stays, fewer doctor visits and take less medication for high blood pressure and cholesterol. If they do have heart attacks, pet owners are more likely than non-pet owners to survive more than a year.
Pets can induce healthy physiological reactions. According to researcher Johannes Odendaal, just 10 minutes of interaction with your pet can lower your blood pressure by 5 percent to 10 percent and increase the levels of hormones associated with well-being.
Pets may protect kids from allergies. Researchers in Detroit followed more than 700 children from birth through age 6 or 7. Those who lived all their lives with a dog or a cat in the home were significantly less likely to develop allergies to animals.
Therapeutic benefits
The benefits of trained animals for people with disabilities go beyond the physical aid that they provide. Service dogs allow their owners to get out more and be more involved in the community. Companionship and bonding with the animal result in emotional support as well.
Pet visits have helped psychiatric patients reduce anxiety and have helped hospitalized children cope with pain.
Pet owners with AIDS are less likely to suffer from depression. Researcher Judith Siegel found that the most benefit was among those patients who had close relationships with their pets.
Note, however, that not all the research shows a positive relationship between pet ownership and human health. A few studies found that pet owners were more depressed, more socially maladjusted and less physically healthy. It turns out that the important factor is not just pet ownership, but the quality of the relationship with one's pet.
Also, much of the research is correlational -- that is, people who own pets tend to be physically and emotionally healthier. But it's possible that healthier people choose to own pets.
More recent research has taken this into account. In her study on pets and hypertension, Karen Allen recruited stressed-out stockbrokers who had been diagnosed with high blood pressure. None of them owned a pet. All subjects started taking medication, but half of them were randomly assigned a dog or cat in addition. Six months later, under lab-induced stress, the pet owners' blood pressure rose less than half that of their counterparts without pets.
Pets are cute and cuddly, and fun to have around -- which explains why more than 70 percent of all American households have at least one. Despite the tough economy, we will collectively spend more than $45 billion on our pets this year, an increase of $2.1 billion over last year.
For most Americans, pets are not just animals; they are full-fledged family members. They pose in family photos. They receive gifts at holidays. They go on vacation with their owners. Some pets are even named as heirs in their owners' wills. And when couples break up, pets are increasingly becoming the focus of custody battles in divorce court.
Why are we so attached to our pets?
According to John Archer, author of "Evolution and Human Behavior," pets evoke responses of caring and love similar to what parents feel for their children.
They make us feel valued and important. They offer unconditional affection. It doesn't matter whether you've won the lottery or were fired from a job -- they love you just the same. They provide rhythm to our lives and give us vicarious pleasure in watching them play.
It's common to view pets as extensions of ourselves. Some people go a little overboard by buying designer clothes, jewelry and spa treatments for their pets. More frugal enthusiasts express their passions by setting up online accounts for their pets on MySpace, Facebook and Twitter.
If you've never had a pet, you might think that these pet owners are beyond fanatics. But consider that companion animals provide many benefits. Here are a few research findings:
Emotional benefits
Pets provide companionship and reduce loneliness. In fact, some folks prefer the company of animals over people. A study of nursing home residents in St. Louis found that those who spent time alone with a dog over a period of six weeks reported feeling less lonely than those who spent time with two other residents and the dog. A study of college students found that pets played an important role in helping them through difficult times.
The presence of pets helps us cope with stress. In a study measuring physiological reactions (heart rate and blood pressure) to both mental and physical stress, pet owners with their dog or cat in the room fared better than non-pet owners with a friend in the room. They had lower baseline indicators of stress, experienced smaller spikes in their stress reactions, and returned to baseline more quickly than the non-pet owners.
Pets promote development of social skills in children. Robert Poresky's studies of preschoolers in Kansas showed that the greater their involvement with their pets, the higher their scores on measures of empathy and social skills. This is not surprising because in order to have a successful interaction with animals, kids need to be more aware of nonverbal communication signals.
Physical benefits
Several studies have shown that pet owners enjoy better health. They have shorter hospital stays, fewer doctor visits and take less medication for high blood pressure and cholesterol. If they do have heart attacks, pet owners are more likely than non-pet owners to survive more than a year.
Pets can induce healthy physiological reactions. According to researcher Johannes Odendaal, just 10 minutes of interaction with your pet can lower your blood pressure by 5 percent to 10 percent and increase the levels of hormones associated with well-being.
Pets may protect kids from allergies. Researchers in Detroit followed more than 700 children from birth through age 6 or 7. Those who lived all their lives with a dog or a cat in the home were significantly less likely to develop allergies to animals.
Therapeutic benefits
The benefits of trained animals for people with disabilities go beyond the physical aid that they provide. Service dogs allow their owners to get out more and be more involved in the community. Companionship and bonding with the animal result in emotional support as well.
Pet visits have helped psychiatric patients reduce anxiety and have helped hospitalized children cope with pain.
Pet owners with AIDS are less likely to suffer from depression. Researcher Judith Siegel found that the most benefit was among those patients who had close relationships with their pets.
Note, however, that not all the research shows a positive relationship between pet ownership and human health. A few studies found that pet owners were more depressed, more socially maladjusted and less physically healthy. It turns out that the important factor is not just pet ownership, but the quality of the relationship with one's pet.
Also, much of the research is correlational -- that is, people who own pets tend to be physically and emotionally healthier. But it's possible that healthier people choose to own pets.
More recent research has taken this into account. In her study on pets and hypertension, Karen Allen recruited stressed-out stockbrokers who had been diagnosed with high blood pressure. None of them owned a pet. All subjects started taking medication, but half of them were randomly assigned a dog or cat in addition. Six months later, under lab-induced stress, the pet owners' blood pressure rose less than half that of their counterparts without pets.
Pet Travel – Things You Should Know
The rules, regulations and required forms for traveling internationally with your pet are constantly changing.
EU Countries have relaxed the rules for entering from a country with a low incidence of rabies such as the United States and Canada. Of the EU Countries only the UK, Norway, Sweden and Malta now require quarantine but even that can be avoided by having a blood titre test performed in advance of travel.
Most EU countries now recognize 125 different countries as having a low incidence of rabies, the latest addition to the list being Mexico. The UK list of countries from which you can enter without quarantine is somewhat shorter.
Virtually all countries now require that your pet be micro chipped as a condition of entry. Gone are the days when a universal international health certificate such as the APHIS form 7001 would suffice for travel to another country. Now, almost every country has their own unique veterinary certificate.
Having your pet quarantined on arrival in a foreign country almost never happens any more now that the blood titre test has come into popular use as a means of making sure that pets are vaccinated for rabies. However, every day more countries are requiring the blood titre test, so you need to check each country's regulations carefully. The Turks & Caicos and the United Arab Emerites are recent additions to the list of countries requiring this test.
Pets living in Europe have an even easier time, as the EU has adopted a single form of veterinary certificate called the Blue Pet Passport. However, the blue pet passport can only be issued by veterinarians in the EU and it is only valid for travel within the EU.
VETERINARY CERTIFICATION: Most countries require that the forms for taking a pet into that country be certified by the "competent authority" for veterinarians. This is the governmental agency that licenses veterinarians in the country from which they are departing. In the United States, this is done by the State USDA veterinarian.
With more airlines accepting pets on their international routes, traveling with your pet has become much easier. It is VERY important that you have the current information and all of the necessary forms before traveling internationally. Check with the airline, your travel agent or immigration for specifics.
Most countries including those of the European Union now have a veterinary health certificate that is specific to their country.
If there is not a health certificate for the country you are visiting, then you should use the International Health Certificate USDA-APHIS 7001 form. It is officially known as "United States Interstate and International Certificate of Health Examination for Small Animals." This form is available from your veterinarian.
1. Make sure your pet is physically able to travel. If the pet is older, if it is very young and not well trained yet, or if it has been sick or at the vet a lot, reconsider your position. Your dog or cat may be better off in familiar surroundings with a loving pet sitter than on unfamiliar turf at this time.
2. If you are planning to travel abroad, particularly if you are planning to travel from North America to United Kingdom countries, be aware that as of this newsletter pets from North America still have to be quarantined for six months in the UK at designated kennels before being allowed into the country unless your pet has had a successful blood titer test, in which case no quarantine is required. You need to contact these kennels for their brochure information and make arrangements well in advance of the planned trip.
3. Visit your veterinarian. In the case of traveling abroad, make sure you and your vet know what documents are necessary for ease of entry into another country, particularly a European country. Make sure that your pet has his vaccination and rabies records up to date, the information is not more than 10 days old and that you have two or three copies of this record with you.
Also, if your dog or cat isn't micro chipped, have your vet do this identification chip. Different countries have different specific requirements as to the type of microchip. Make sure you have the right kind.
4. Ask your vet for information on traveling with your pet, and let him know where you are going, how you are going to get there and how long you will be gone. Ask for a referring veterinarian in the destination area, and keep the phone number of the vet with you. Find out from your veterinarian information on medications for motion sickness, tranquilizers he would recommend, and any health dangers in that area, such as tick, heartworm or flea infestations.
5. Purchase an appropriate carrier for your pet, depending on its size and how you will travel. Several airlines have approved the Sherpa pet carrier for in-cabin traveling with small pets. The carrier you choose should allow the pet to stand up, turn around and lay down comfortably, and should be free of any interior protrusions that could injure your pet in travel. Make sure your name, your pet's name and address and phone are printed on the carrier in indelible ink.
A word about the carrier or crate. Don't spring this mode of transportation on your dog or cat the day you leave. Spend several weeks getting your pet used to the carrier or crate in short intervals before embarking on the pet vacation.
Check with the airline if your pet will travel in the cargo hold to find out their precautions for this mode of travel. And leave the leash outside the carrier your pet can get tangled in it when traveling in the crate. Find an airline approved carrier.
6. Check with to find out what accommodations are pet friendly, and make sure to double check with them before making reservations (policies do change, sometimes with new ownership or the time of the year)..
7. If you are planning to travel via air with your pet in the cabin, you will not only need to have an approved carrier, but you will need to purchase a ticket for your pet. The object in traveling in-cabin is to be as unobtrusive as possible, to have the experience be pleasant for you, your pet and your fellow passengers and to maintain a good reputation with the airlines that do allow small pets in the cabins.
The better behaved your pet is (no running loose, no barking or howling) the more likely it is that the airline will continue its pet friendly policy and will encourage others in the industry to accommodate pet owners as well.
8. When packing for your trip, you will need:
The veterinarian's documents for your pet.
Your pet should be micro chipped and wearing a collar with your information on it.
Your carrier or crate, complete with identification.
A leash and an extra collar. Make sure your pet isn't wearing a choke collar of any kind. Cats should have a safety collar on.
Extra sheets or an old blanket for under the carrier for travel in an automobile.
A couple of sheets to cover furniture and/or the bed at your destination, just in case.
A blanket or cushion from your pet's home bedding.
A container of your pet's food. If you pet eats a common food and you know that it is available, you needn't bring a whole bag. But, if you don't know if you'll find your pet's food, then bring it with you. (Don't forget a can opener and spoon, if needed)
Distilled water, or at least water from your own home. Two gallons (8 Liters) should be sufficient, but if you see that you are running lower than a gallon, add part of the destination water to the home water, so that your pet can get acclimated to the other water in a diluted form.
Of course, you're pet's food and water dish, and a portable water container for traveling while at your destination.
Backpack for your dog if you are going to be doing hiking or walking.
Booties for your dog if you plan to travel on uneven or hilly ground
Their favorite chew toys
Treats
Grooming supplies, such as a brush or comb, a lint remover for hotel furniture, tweezers, scissors
Good suggestions: Bring along baby wipes. They are great for keeping paws clean, for clean up any "accidents"
Trash bags and waste removal bags
Disinfectant and carpet cleaner
Extra old towels
Newspaper, a full litter pan and extra liners for your cat.
If traveling by car, use a thick pad of newspapers, covered with an old towel or blanket in your cat's carrier. Change the carrier frequently (but only when the car is stopped!). Before letting your cat out of the carrier, make sure the doors of the car and the windows are shut, so they can't run away. If you decide to use this time for a short walk, use a cat harness and leash. Under no circumstances should your cat run free.
Pet medication, particularly enough of any prescription medication for the trip An approved dog restraint device when traveling by car. Don't forget-- in case of an accident, dogs can be thrown around the car and be injured or killed.
Flashlight (for walking after dark)
First aid kit for humans and pets
9. If you are traveling by car, make sure your air conditioning is working properly and that you use it while driving. Don't roll down the windows and let your dog hang its head out of the window, and never have your pet in the back of a truck.
10. Pack a relaxed attitude. This is supposed to be fun for your family and your pet. Check out interesting places to visit along the way or at your destination, and plan extra time for impulse side trips.
EU Countries have relaxed the rules for entering from a country with a low incidence of rabies such as the United States and Canada. Of the EU Countries only the UK, Norway, Sweden and Malta now require quarantine but even that can be avoided by having a blood titre test performed in advance of travel.
Most EU countries now recognize 125 different countries as having a low incidence of rabies, the latest addition to the list being Mexico. The UK list of countries from which you can enter without quarantine is somewhat shorter.
Virtually all countries now require that your pet be micro chipped as a condition of entry. Gone are the days when a universal international health certificate such as the APHIS form 7001 would suffice for travel to another country. Now, almost every country has their own unique veterinary certificate.
Having your pet quarantined on arrival in a foreign country almost never happens any more now that the blood titre test has come into popular use as a means of making sure that pets are vaccinated for rabies. However, every day more countries are requiring the blood titre test, so you need to check each country's regulations carefully. The Turks & Caicos and the United Arab Emerites are recent additions to the list of countries requiring this test.
Pets living in Europe have an even easier time, as the EU has adopted a single form of veterinary certificate called the Blue Pet Passport. However, the blue pet passport can only be issued by veterinarians in the EU and it is only valid for travel within the EU.
VETERINARY CERTIFICATION: Most countries require that the forms for taking a pet into that country be certified by the "competent authority" for veterinarians. This is the governmental agency that licenses veterinarians in the country from which they are departing. In the United States, this is done by the State USDA veterinarian.
With more airlines accepting pets on their international routes, traveling with your pet has become much easier. It is VERY important that you have the current information and all of the necessary forms before traveling internationally. Check with the airline, your travel agent or immigration for specifics.
Most countries including those of the European Union now have a veterinary health certificate that is specific to their country.
If there is not a health certificate for the country you are visiting, then you should use the International Health Certificate USDA-APHIS 7001 form. It is officially known as "United States Interstate and International Certificate of Health Examination for Small Animals." This form is available from your veterinarian.
1. Make sure your pet is physically able to travel. If the pet is older, if it is very young and not well trained yet, or if it has been sick or at the vet a lot, reconsider your position. Your dog or cat may be better off in familiar surroundings with a loving pet sitter than on unfamiliar turf at this time.
2. If you are planning to travel abroad, particularly if you are planning to travel from North America to United Kingdom countries, be aware that as of this newsletter pets from North America still have to be quarantined for six months in the UK at designated kennels before being allowed into the country unless your pet has had a successful blood titer test, in which case no quarantine is required. You need to contact these kennels for their brochure information and make arrangements well in advance of the planned trip.
3. Visit your veterinarian. In the case of traveling abroad, make sure you and your vet know what documents are necessary for ease of entry into another country, particularly a European country. Make sure that your pet has his vaccination and rabies records up to date, the information is not more than 10 days old and that you have two or three copies of this record with you.
Also, if your dog or cat isn't micro chipped, have your vet do this identification chip. Different countries have different specific requirements as to the type of microchip. Make sure you have the right kind.
4. Ask your vet for information on traveling with your pet, and let him know where you are going, how you are going to get there and how long you will be gone. Ask for a referring veterinarian in the destination area, and keep the phone number of the vet with you. Find out from your veterinarian information on medications for motion sickness, tranquilizers he would recommend, and any health dangers in that area, such as tick, heartworm or flea infestations.
5. Purchase an appropriate carrier for your pet, depending on its size and how you will travel. Several airlines have approved the Sherpa pet carrier for in-cabin traveling with small pets. The carrier you choose should allow the pet to stand up, turn around and lay down comfortably, and should be free of any interior protrusions that could injure your pet in travel. Make sure your name, your pet's name and address and phone are printed on the carrier in indelible ink.
A word about the carrier or crate. Don't spring this mode of transportation on your dog or cat the day you leave. Spend several weeks getting your pet used to the carrier or crate in short intervals before embarking on the pet vacation.
Check with the airline if your pet will travel in the cargo hold to find out their precautions for this mode of travel. And leave the leash outside the carrier your pet can get tangled in it when traveling in the crate. Find an airline approved carrier.
6. Check with to find out what accommodations are pet friendly, and make sure to double check with them before making reservations (policies do change, sometimes with new ownership or the time of the year)..
7. If you are planning to travel via air with your pet in the cabin, you will not only need to have an approved carrier, but you will need to purchase a ticket for your pet. The object in traveling in-cabin is to be as unobtrusive as possible, to have the experience be pleasant for you, your pet and your fellow passengers and to maintain a good reputation with the airlines that do allow small pets in the cabins.
The better behaved your pet is (no running loose, no barking or howling) the more likely it is that the airline will continue its pet friendly policy and will encourage others in the industry to accommodate pet owners as well.
8. When packing for your trip, you will need:
The veterinarian's documents for your pet.
Your pet should be micro chipped and wearing a collar with your information on it.
Your carrier or crate, complete with identification.
A leash and an extra collar. Make sure your pet isn't wearing a choke collar of any kind. Cats should have a safety collar on.
Extra sheets or an old blanket for under the carrier for travel in an automobile.
A couple of sheets to cover furniture and/or the bed at your destination, just in case.
A blanket or cushion from your pet's home bedding.
A container of your pet's food. If you pet eats a common food and you know that it is available, you needn't bring a whole bag. But, if you don't know if you'll find your pet's food, then bring it with you. (Don't forget a can opener and spoon, if needed)
Distilled water, or at least water from your own home. Two gallons (8 Liters) should be sufficient, but if you see that you are running lower than a gallon, add part of the destination water to the home water, so that your pet can get acclimated to the other water in a diluted form.
Of course, you're pet's food and water dish, and a portable water container for traveling while at your destination.
Backpack for your dog if you are going to be doing hiking or walking.
Booties for your dog if you plan to travel on uneven or hilly ground
Their favorite chew toys
Treats
Grooming supplies, such as a brush or comb, a lint remover for hotel furniture, tweezers, scissors
Good suggestions: Bring along baby wipes. They are great for keeping paws clean, for clean up any "accidents"
Trash bags and waste removal bags
Disinfectant and carpet cleaner
Extra old towels
Newspaper, a full litter pan and extra liners for your cat.
If traveling by car, use a thick pad of newspapers, covered with an old towel or blanket in your cat's carrier. Change the carrier frequently (but only when the car is stopped!). Before letting your cat out of the carrier, make sure the doors of the car and the windows are shut, so they can't run away. If you decide to use this time for a short walk, use a cat harness and leash. Under no circumstances should your cat run free.
Pet medication, particularly enough of any prescription medication for the trip An approved dog restraint device when traveling by car. Don't forget-- in case of an accident, dogs can be thrown around the car and be injured or killed.
Flashlight (for walking after dark)
First aid kit for humans and pets
9. If you are traveling by car, make sure your air conditioning is working properly and that you use it while driving. Don't roll down the windows and let your dog hang its head out of the window, and never have your pet in the back of a truck.
10. Pack a relaxed attitude. This is supposed to be fun for your family and your pet. Check out interesting places to visit along the way or at your destination, and plan extra time for impulse side trips.
Pets & Their Health
Recent media reports of the 2009 H1N1 influenza (swine flu) virus cases in companion animals have many people concerned for the health of their pets. Here's what The HSUS has confirmed about such cases, and what you can do to protect your pets from getting sick.
At the end of October, a USDA laboratory confirmed a Nebraska ferret died of H1N1 infection. Around the same time, three ferrets living in one Oregon household were also diagnosed with H1N1 infections.
Earlier this month, both the Iowa State Veterinarian and the Department of Public Health confirmed H1N1 flu in a domestic cat. This Iowa feline and the Oregon ferrets are reportedly recovering from their illnesses.
Causes and symptoms
It appears that all pets so far stricken with H1N1 flu were infected by human household members who had recently been ill with the virus. Animals who have contracted H1N1 influenza have shown the typical signs of respiratory illness such as lethargy, decreased appetite, fever, runny nose and eyes, sneezing, coughing and changes in breathing patterns including difficult or labored breathing.
Dogs not affected yet
To date there are no reports of companion animals infecting humans with H1N1. There have also been no reports of canine H1N1 cases.
Skip the vaccines (for pets)
Neither the H1N1 vaccine, nor any other human influenza vaccine, is appropriate for non-human species and it should not be given to pets for any reason. The same caution holds true for human anti-viral formulations; they are generally not appropriate companion animal medications.
During this flu season, strive to keep your pets in overall good health with regular preventive health care and consult your veterinarian promptly if your pets show any signs of illness. Source: Humane Society.org
At the end of October, a USDA laboratory confirmed a Nebraska ferret died of H1N1 infection. Around the same time, three ferrets living in one Oregon household were also diagnosed with H1N1 infections.
Earlier this month, both the Iowa State Veterinarian and the Department of Public Health confirmed H1N1 flu in a domestic cat. This Iowa feline and the Oregon ferrets are reportedly recovering from their illnesses.
Causes and symptoms
It appears that all pets so far stricken with H1N1 flu were infected by human household members who had recently been ill with the virus. Animals who have contracted H1N1 influenza have shown the typical signs of respiratory illness such as lethargy, decreased appetite, fever, runny nose and eyes, sneezing, coughing and changes in breathing patterns including difficult or labored breathing.
Dogs not affected yet
To date there are no reports of companion animals infecting humans with H1N1. There have also been no reports of canine H1N1 cases.
Skip the vaccines (for pets)
Neither the H1N1 vaccine, nor any other human influenza vaccine, is appropriate for non-human species and it should not be given to pets for any reason. The same caution holds true for human anti-viral formulations; they are generally not appropriate companion animal medications.
During this flu season, strive to keep your pets in overall good health with regular preventive health care and consult your veterinarian promptly if your pets show any signs of illness. Source: Humane Society.org
Petcetera – Fun Facts About our Furry, Scaly, Feathered Friends
A cat's Purr: Cats do not purr at other cats. They reserve this behavior for humans. A cat's purr doesn't necessarily mean they are happy. Dying cats, cats giving birth, and cats in pain will purr as well.
A cat's eyes: Unlike human eyes, a cat's eyes have pupils that are shaped like vertical slits. These vertical slits work together with the horizontal slits of the cat's eyelid to give it greater control over how much light it allows into its eyes.
A cat's lick: Does your cat lick its fur clean after it has rubbed against you? That is its way of tasting you- becoming familiar with the taste and scent of the people in its life.
The sleeping cat: The average cat sleeps 16 hours a day.
The Royal Cat: About 2000 BC, cats were worshipped as royalty in Egypt, and if anyone killed a cat, on purpose or accidentally, the punishment was death.
Source: Uncle Johns Bathroom Reader
Horses are right up there with dogs as being elemental to the benefit of man.
There is a sense of grace and eloquence in a horse that is unequaled whether they are standing in place or in a full gallop.
Here are just a few interesting facts about horses that you might enjoy knowing.
*1400 BC was when the first written text about horses was produced.
*It is believed that the Asians were the first to tame and ride horses.
*Approximately 75 million horses currently populate the world.
*There wasn't a single pony in the Pony Express. Just horses.
*There were no horses in Australia until 1788.
*Horses cannot vomit.
*The hippo is closely related to the horse.
Dog Fact #1: A dog’s nose has about 4 times as many scent cells as a cat’s and 14 times more than a human’s. That’s why dogs are often used to track down illegal drugs and missing persons. They can sniff out their dinner from any room in the house!
Dog Fact #2: With patience and understanding you can teach any old dog new tricks, depending on what you are trying to teach, or un-teach the dog, which is usually more difficult. Dogs can learn at any age, and like humans, it’s just old habits that are hard to break!
Dog Fact #3: Dogs see in color, but not the same way that we do. Veterinary ophthalmologists have found that dogs are similar to people with red/green color blindness, meaning they can see bluish and greenish shades but not reddish ones. To a dog, a bright orange ball on a grassy lawn appears as a light greenish ball in greenish grass. Go fetch!
Dog Fact #4: According to a recent survey, the most popular name for a dog is Max. Other popular names include Molly, Sam, Zach, and Maggie.
Dog Fact #5: An estimated 1 million dogs in the United States have been named the primary beneficiary in their owner's will.
Dog Fact #6: Contrary to popular belief, dogs do not sweat by salivating. They sweat through the pads of their feet.
Dog Fact #7: Every known dog, except the chow, has a pink tongue - a chow's tongue is black.
Dog Fact #8: Dogs can alert their owners of an epileptic seizure up to an hour before it occurs.
Dog Fact #9: Walt Disney's family dog was named Lady. She was a poodle.
Dog Fact #10: The dog was one of the first animals domesticated by humans.
Dog Fact #11: The heaviest dog ever weighed 319 pounds.
There are over 25,000 identified species of fish on the earth.
It is estimated that there may still be over 15,000 fish species that have not yet been identified.
There are more species of fish than all the species of amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals combined.
40% of all fish species inhabit fresh water, yet less than .01% of the earth's water is
The spotted climbing perch is able to absorb oxygen from the air and will crawl overland using its strong pectoral fins.
Some fish like sharks don't posses an air bladder to help keep them afloat and must either swim continually or rest on the bottom.
Some fish make sounds by grating their teeth and others like some catfish make sounds from their air filled swim bladder.
Some species of fish can fly (glide) others can skip along the surface and others can even climb rock.
Fish have a specialized sense organ called the lateral line which works much like radar and helps them navigate in dark or murky water.
The largest fish is the great whale shark which can reach fifty feet in length.
The smallest fish is the Philippine goby that is less than 1/3 of an inch when fully grown.
Fish have excellent senses of sight, touch, taste and many possess a good sense of smell
Fish feel pain and suffer stress just like mammals and birds.
Tropical fish are one of the most popular pets in the U.S.
A cat's eyes: Unlike human eyes, a cat's eyes have pupils that are shaped like vertical slits. These vertical slits work together with the horizontal slits of the cat's eyelid to give it greater control over how much light it allows into its eyes.
A cat's lick: Does your cat lick its fur clean after it has rubbed against you? That is its way of tasting you- becoming familiar with the taste and scent of the people in its life.
The sleeping cat: The average cat sleeps 16 hours a day.
The Royal Cat: About 2000 BC, cats were worshipped as royalty in Egypt, and if anyone killed a cat, on purpose or accidentally, the punishment was death.
Source: Uncle Johns Bathroom Reader
Horses are right up there with dogs as being elemental to the benefit of man.
There is a sense of grace and eloquence in a horse that is unequaled whether they are standing in place or in a full gallop.
Here are just a few interesting facts about horses that you might enjoy knowing.
*1400 BC was when the first written text about horses was produced.
*It is believed that the Asians were the first to tame and ride horses.
*Approximately 75 million horses currently populate the world.
*There wasn't a single pony in the Pony Express. Just horses.
*There were no horses in Australia until 1788.
*Horses cannot vomit.
*The hippo is closely related to the horse.
Dog Fact #1: A dog’s nose has about 4 times as many scent cells as a cat’s and 14 times more than a human’s. That’s why dogs are often used to track down illegal drugs and missing persons. They can sniff out their dinner from any room in the house!
Dog Fact #2: With patience and understanding you can teach any old dog new tricks, depending on what you are trying to teach, or un-teach the dog, which is usually more difficult. Dogs can learn at any age, and like humans, it’s just old habits that are hard to break!
Dog Fact #3: Dogs see in color, but not the same way that we do. Veterinary ophthalmologists have found that dogs are similar to people with red/green color blindness, meaning they can see bluish and greenish shades but not reddish ones. To a dog, a bright orange ball on a grassy lawn appears as a light greenish ball in greenish grass. Go fetch!
Dog Fact #4: According to a recent survey, the most popular name for a dog is Max. Other popular names include Molly, Sam, Zach, and Maggie.
Dog Fact #5: An estimated 1 million dogs in the United States have been named the primary beneficiary in their owner's will.
Dog Fact #6: Contrary to popular belief, dogs do not sweat by salivating. They sweat through the pads of their feet.
Dog Fact #7: Every known dog, except the chow, has a pink tongue - a chow's tongue is black.
Dog Fact #8: Dogs can alert their owners of an epileptic seizure up to an hour before it occurs.
Dog Fact #9: Walt Disney's family dog was named Lady. She was a poodle.
Dog Fact #10: The dog was one of the first animals domesticated by humans.
Dog Fact #11: The heaviest dog ever weighed 319 pounds.
There are over 25,000 identified species of fish on the earth.
It is estimated that there may still be over 15,000 fish species that have not yet been identified.
There are more species of fish than all the species of amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals combined.
40% of all fish species inhabit fresh water, yet less than .01% of the earth's water is
The spotted climbing perch is able to absorb oxygen from the air and will crawl overland using its strong pectoral fins.
Some fish like sharks don't posses an air bladder to help keep them afloat and must either swim continually or rest on the bottom.
Some fish make sounds by grating their teeth and others like some catfish make sounds from their air filled swim bladder.
Some species of fish can fly (glide) others can skip along the surface and others can even climb rock.
Fish have a specialized sense organ called the lateral line which works much like radar and helps them navigate in dark or murky water.
The largest fish is the great whale shark which can reach fifty feet in length.
The smallest fish is the Philippine goby that is less than 1/3 of an inch when fully grown.
Fish have excellent senses of sight, touch, taste and many possess a good sense of smell
Fish feel pain and suffer stress just like mammals and birds.
Tropical fish are one of the most popular pets in the U.S.
Friday, November 6, 2009
Animal Shopping Club Network
All eyes will be on animalshoppingclub.com on November 27, 2009. The pet lifestyle shopping center will launch on that date. Mark your calenders.
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