Saturday, December 18, 2010

Get a dog, not a facelift

I just read a terrific article about the benefits of getting a dog vs. having plastic surgery. I've referenced the entire piece below, which includes some terrific photos, but for this blog's purpose, I am listing the pros to getting a dog here:

* They offer a lifetime of love.

* They are cheaper - facelifts can set you back a good $10,000.

* They make you happier.

* often have better breath.

* They can be your hang-out buddy.

* They won't cause talking behind your back.

* They fetch.

* They cuddle.

* They aren't nearly as risky.

* They care.

Enough said.

Source

Wednesday, December 8, 2010

Are our topical meds making our pets sick?

Be very careful if you have a companion animal and use any kind of medicinal body cream, spray or gel, i.e., hormones, analgesics, treatments for psoriasis, etc.

We know how pets are prone to licking everything and that includes their human's hands, legs, or arms. Unfortunately, they can wind up absorbing these medications orally and becoming really sick.

Veterinarians from various parts of the country are reporting seeing dogs and cats with enlarged breast tissue, occasional vaginal bleeding, and confusing blood test results. Some cases are extreme, such as animals who appear pregnant, despite having been spayed months or years before.

Simply wiping your hands after using a cream, gel, or spray medication isn't enough to prevent your pet from absorbing the medication, experts say.

Here are some recommended precautions to take if you are currently using topical medications:

1. Creams, gels, and sprays can be effective if used on areas other than hands, arms, and legs. Try your backs and shoulders, or other places less accessible to your pet.

2. If you do have to place topical medications on your hands, arms, or legs, such as hormones, cover any affected skin left exposed.

3. If you must be with an animal while using topical medications, try to avoid close contact until the preparation has completely dried.

4. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and hot water after using any medications.

5. To be extra cautious, wear disposable gloves when handling topical products, but be sure to properly dispose of the gloves when finished.

Oh, before I forget, here are some great little stocking stuffers for your fur child:

Greenies Dental Chews!
Click on the Greenies and Stock Up Now


Monday, December 6, 2010

The Vick is Back

Have you heard? Michael Vick is starting to get his swagger back. At least that's what sports writers are saying about him.

Successfully prosecuted for torturing and killing several dogs involved in his very own dog fighting enterprise, Vick spent 17 months in prison. Most animal lovers, including the author, would like to have seen him locked up for 17 years.

But, as is the case with much in life, if there is money to be made by a public figure, an amazing amount of sins, transgressions, even criminalities, take a back seat. In Vick's case, his former employer, the NFL, opened their arms and took him back in to the multi-million dollar a year fold. The Philadelphia Eagles tapped him as their backup quarterback and when their usual quarterback was injured, Vick stepped right back in to the spotlight.

When the NFL Eagles hired Vick fresh from the penitentiary, a collective amnesia began. Vick's victims, the beautiful dogs subjected to unreal atrocities, many directly by Vick's hand, were all but forgotten. After all, Vick has thrown 15 touchdowns and only 2 interceptions since he stepped in to the position. There is money to be made!

These days we are subjected to articles from star- struck sports writers with titles such as, "Vick has become a true leader for young Eagles." There's a lot of talk about what an inspiration Vick is, what a born leader and decent man he is. Yes, the amnesia is just about complete.

“I have all the belief in the world of those guys," Vick is quoted as saying, referring to his Eagle team mates, "and I think the world of them and I’d go to battle with them any day."

Too bad you didn't give your dogs that kind of love and loyalty, Michael Vick. But then, you only murdered the ones who didn't make money for you and the green stuff is really the bottom line, isn't it?

I find it ironic that Vick is now the money maker - again. He received a second chance, something his dogs did not. And if he stops performing well and bringing in the bucks on game days, he'll receive something else he never gave those dogs - mercy.

Meanwhile, check out these Michael Vick Chew Toys - a perfect way to put Vick exactly where he belongs.