The Pet Tree House - Where Pets Are Family Too The Pet Tree House - Where Pets Are Family Too

Saturday, June 18, 2011

Saluting The Troops - Dogs Welcoming Their Troops Home - Videos


Marine Maj. Brian Dennis returned from Iraq and was reunited with Nubs, the street mutt he and his fellow soldiers rescued and, with help from friends and family, had shipped back to the United States.

This article is a little different than most that I write. I am dedicating this article to the Troops that have already come home, and to those who will be returning in the near future.


When Troops are deployed, they of course, have to leave their family. Did you know that some of these Troops have dogs and must provide care for them while they are gone… sometimes for months? While it is heart breaking for these Troops to leave their families and dogs…the homecoming is well worth it!

My article consists of several heart-warming videos showing the greetings that some Troops received from their dogs when they returned home. The Troops in these videos are already home…but I am sure that we will see more of these as more Troops arrive.

Looking at these video’s you can feel the love that these dogs have for their Troops, and the Troops have for their dogs! You will need tissues!

Please click on the links below to view these videos. Adjust your speakers, there is a lot of barking love in these videos!

                                     






(This video is really cute. The kid moves out of the way and let's the dog have daddy!)


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Friday, June 17, 2011

10 Reasons Not To Buy Puppies Online


Are you ready to add a puppy to your family? Have you considered adopting one from a shelter…yes, they have puppies too that need good homes.

So you are thinking…I don’t want to take the time to go down to a shelter and look a dogs…I’ll just go on the internet…it will be easier.  Will it?  Please, before you make the decision to go on the internet, take a look at 10 reasons why you should not buy a puppy online.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) says, Don’t be fooled: the Internet is a vast, unregulated marketplace allowing anyone to put up a website claiming anything. Scattered among the websites of reputable breeders and rescue groups, Internet puppy scammers attract potential buyers with endearing pictures and phony promises.

Before buying a puppy off of the internet, consider these 10 factors:

1. Don't buy from someone who accepts credit cards, that usually means it's their business, and they're just doing it for money."

2. Don’t buy online from a local independent Seller. If so, you must verify the seller's information. Many people posting puppies for sale on Craigslist or other classifieds-style sites are a risky venture. You'll need to take extra steps to make sure the seller is a legitimate person or business, and you can request references if they have sold other puppies from the same parent. Just call the phone number and ask how you can verify their identity before proceeding.

3. Good breeders don't sell puppies online. Puppy mills and some backyard breeders do.

4. A good breeder may have websites. They won't have pictures of puppies with prices next to them; generally, they won't discuss price at all.

5. A good breeder will not always have puppies available, because they breed on or two litters a year, at most.

6. If you buy a puppy online, with no visit to the breeder's home, you have no idea whether the puppy you receive will be the one you thought you were buying, with the cute picture..

7. Before you buy a puppy online from a breeder, obtain the breeder's kennel name, telephone number and exact location. This is important. After you have this information, you'll want to consider finding out if they are legitimate from the Better Business Bureau.

8. Some buyers have waited weeks for delivery, only to find that they had become victims of fraud - being charged hundreds of dollars for a non-existent puppy that will never arrive.


9. Although sellers will invariably ensure a bouncing, healthy puppy, upon arrival puppies have been reported either sick, suffering from a chronic illness, or to have suffered injuries in transit.

10. When you decide to purchase a puppy online, you will not get the opportunity to meet it and see what its personality is like.

According to Francis Battista, of Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, "80% of the people who acquire a new pet buy one rather than adopt one from a shelter or rescue group....If 80% were adopted and only 20% were purchased, there wouldn't be a homeless pet problem at all."

Please listen to what Stephanie Shain, Chief Operations Officer, Washington Humane Society, has to say about buying a puppy online.

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Do You Know The Difference Between A Feral And Domesticated Cat?


Do you know the difference between a  feral and domestic cat? You probably have seen a feral cat, and just thought it was a stray cat.

Feral Cats:
Life-span: 2-3 years

Feral cats are descended from domestic cats, but are born and live without human contact. These are the ones you see running through your backyard. Sometimes you can hear them fighting and making a crying sound like a baby.

Feral cats are homeless cats, some consider them as wild animals.  They are often confused with pets who were abandoned or have become lost.

The moms usually give birth in quiet, unseen spots where the kittens will not be visible for several weeks.  They will hide during the day and come out at night. Since there is no human contact, they will be totally wild. When the kittens begin to romp and play, they are usually noticed by humans, but are not easily captured.

They are usually terrified of humans, and a feral kitten may hiss and "spit" at humans.
The feral kitten is capable of giving you a nasty scratch or bite and will probably try to escape if given the chance. To the kitten you may be seen as a predator; the kitten may think it is fighting for its life.

Feral diet: small mammals (rabbits, mice), birds and carrion.

Domesticated Cat:


Life-span: 15 years

A domestic cat, or house cat is a small furry domesticated carnivorous mammal that is valued by humans for its companionship.

A stray cat is one that has possibly become separated from it's owner. It may have become lost, dumped, or even abandoned when the owner moved or died. These are cats that are used to people, and tend to be somewhat  approachable.

Sometimes stray cats will have on collars with tags indicating that the are a pet.

Domestic Cat Diet:

Dry foods are  very helpful with matters of oral hygiene. Dry food, unlike moist, requires chewing and gnawing of kibble to be swallowed.

Typically, moist food is higher in fat and calories, and therefore more palatable. Many cats that are ill or debilitated will eat moist food because of its taste and ease of digestion.

Failure to control the breeding of pet cats by spaying and neutering and the abandonment of former household pets has resulted in large numbers of feral cats worldwide, with a population of up to 60 million of these animals in the United States alone.




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Thursday, June 16, 2011

Yorkshire Terriers, Affectionately Known As Yorkies


The Yorkshire terrier is a small dog breed of terrier type. The defining features of the breed are its small size, less than 3.2kg, and its silky blue and tan coat. Don't let the small size mislead you, they are a terrific watchdogs and have the attitude of a full sized dog when it comes to protecting their territory.

Yorkshire Terriers, are affectionately known as "Yorkies," and offer big personalities in a small package. Though members of the Toy Group, they are terriers by nature and are brave, determined, investigative and energetic. This portable pooch is one of the most popular breeds!

In addition to being very intelligent dogs, they are also very loving and loyal pets. They bond quickly to caring and loving people, and enjoy being a part of the family. They love to be petted and enjoy spending time with humans and are truly a joy to be around. They can be a bit nervous of younger children.

Size: Up to 7 pounds

Colors: Although Yorkie pups are born black and tan, their color changes as they mature. The ideal coat color for adult Yorkies is blue (actually a deep, steel gray; no silver, black, or bronze mixed in) and tan. They can be any of these color combinations: blue and gold, blue and tan, black and gold, and black and tan.

Head: The Yorkie's head is small and slightly flat on top. The skull isn't too round, and the muzzle isn't too long. The nose is black, the eyes are dark, sparkly, and intelligent, and the ears are small, V-shaped, pointed, and erect.

Coat: Yorkie’s do not shed! Like human hair, Yorkie hair just keeps growing. In fact, their coat can grow long enough to drag on the ground. If you don't wrap up your Yorkie's hair, it'll break off and stay at a length about even with the ground. Their coats are silky and hang straight down each side of their bodies.

Yorkies have one long, straight part that extends the length of their bodies, starting at the base of their skulls and going all the way back to the tips of their tails. When you keep the coat long, the part usually falls into place.

Health: Yorkie’s are quite sensitive to many medications. They don't like cold or rain and should wear a sweater in cold weather.


                                                        Click on image to enlarge.
                                                          photo yorkshireterrier-1_zps1aaeeada.jpeg FOLLOW US!
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Tuesday, June 14, 2011

Have You Ever Adopted An Animal from a Shelter?


Have you ever adopted an animal from a shelter? If so, we would like to hear your story. Please include what type of pet, the pet's name and how long you have them. Let us know how your pet has changed your life and anything about them!






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Patrick The celebrity Pit Bull To Stay In Tinton Falls


Published: Friday, June 03, 2011, 7:30 AM
Eunice Lee/The Star-Ledger 

NEWARK — In March, he was an abused dog rescued from a Newark apartment garbage chute. Today, he's viewed as a money maker whose ability to rake in donations for sympathetic causes has three groups fighting over him.
The story of Patrick the Pit Bull has turned into a bizarre tale involving the humane society, the Garden State Veterinary Specialists in Tinton Falls and the city of Newark.
The custody battle landed in a courtroom yesterday, where attorneys representing Associated Humane Societies and Newark dug into each other in a heated debate.
Harry Levin, representing Associated Humane Societies, argued Patrick is the property of the humane society, which initially took in the dog. Patrick's fame has raised an estimated $100,000, he said.
"What happens to Patrick is an important issue. Patrick has become a celebrity," Levin said in his testimony before Superior Court Judge Joseph Cassini III in Newark.
William Strazza, representing the city, argued Patrick technically still belongs to his alleged abuser, Kisha Curtis, who faces animal cruelty charges.
"Patrick didn't wake up one day and decide to become a celebrity. He was turned into one" by the Associated Humane Societies, Strazza said.
Meanwhile, Patricia Smillie-Scavelli, hospital administrator at Garden State Veterinary Specialists, said she hopes to one day adopt Patrick.
Cassini denied the humane society’s request to move Patrick from the animial hospital to the society's zoo. He said Patrick is being "adequately cared for" by the veterinary specialists and will remain there through Curtis' trial.
"Patrick is both the victim and evidence in this case," Cassini said.
"It's really a stretch to say Patrick is like a pound of cocaine that needs to stay in an evidence locker," Levin retorted.

Patrick's publicity has launched national anti-cruelty movements, protests, prayer vigils, T-shirt sales and hundreds of Facebook fan groups worldwide.
Last month, Patrick fans from as far away as Rhode Island and Massachusetts rallied in Newark as Curtis made her first court appearance. The Essex County Prosecutor's Office has been flooded with 3,000 letters from Patrick supporters.
The animal hospital obtained a court order April 26 that Patrick be kept there during Curtis' trial.
Smillie-Scavelli says it's not about the money.
"I don't think it's a question of what we want — it's what we've been asked to do," she said.
Levin accused the city of Newark, which contracts with the humane society and has had a rocky history, of "teaming up" with the animal hospital to exploit Patrick’s fame. Mayor Cory Booker has raised more than $35,000 for a new animal shelter he wants to build in honor of Patrick.
"The city of Newark doesn’t have the money itself, so it’s going to capitalize on this animal," said Levin, who argued the city is in collusion with Smillie-Scavelli, who wants to adopt the dog.
"Nobody has vetted Ms. Scavelli," Levin said. "I’m not saying she’s a bad lady, I just don’t know her."
Smillie-Scavelli, who said she spends eight hours a day with Patrick, said she simply wants to give the dog a home away from the limelight.
"This is about Patrick and about him having a good life going forward," she said.





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Emergency Preparedness For Your Pet – Do You Know What To Do In A Disaster?


Are your prepared? Do you know what to do with your pet in a disaster? In the world that we live in, we are constantly reminded to be prepared for emergencies.  Have you ever thought, what would happen to your pet in a disaster?

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), says to arrange a safe haven for your pets in the event of evacuation. DO NOT LEAVE YOUR PETS BEHIND. Remember, if it isn't safe for you, it isn't safe for your pets. They may become trapped or escape and be exposed to numerous life-threatening hazards. Note that not all Red Cross disaster shelters accept pets, so it is imperative that you have determined where you will bring your pets ahead of time.

The Federal Management  Agency (FEMA), says to take pet food, bottled water, medications, veterinary records, cat litter/pan, can opener, food dishes, first aid kit and other supplies with you in case they're not available later. Consider packing a "pet survival" kit  (Please take a look at the slideshow on the left showing these items), which could be easily deployed if disaster hits. Also, separate dogs and cats. Even if your dogs and cats normally get along, the anxiety of an emergency situation can cause pets to act irrationally. Keep small pets away from cats and dogs.

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Keeping Your Dog Safe In The Summer Heat


The Washington DC area is experiencing the hottest summer on record.  It is important to keep your dog safe in the summer heat. So far this year 3 dogs have died  from heat related illnesses. If you are too hot this time of year, more than likely, your pet is too.  Direct sun, lack of fresh, cool water and concrete can be extremely dangerous to pets left outside. These conditions make it hard for a dog to regulate his body temperature which can lead to heat stroke.


There are several items that can help your dog be comfortable in this heat wave. The portable handi-drink for dogs  provides instant water for your dog when you are out and don’t have access to fresh water.

For the outside dog there is a Contech water dog - motion activated outdoor pet fountainAnother item to help your dog beat the heat is a Cooling bed  This bed offers your pet soothing relief from warmer weather. Finally, there is the cooling fan. This battery operated fan  attaches easily to most crates or cages.




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If You Have A Pet, You Will Need A Veterinarian – List Of Veterinarians In The Washington, DC Area


If you have a pet(s) and live, or are planning to move to the Washington, DC area, you will need a Veterinarian.  Below is a list of Veterinarians in Washington, DC, Maryland and Virginia area.

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Adams Morgan Animal Clinic
2112 Eighteenth Street, NW
Washington, DC
(202) 638-7470

Animal Clinic of Anacostia
2210 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, SE
Washington, DC
(202) 889-8900

Animal Clinic of Capitol Hill
1240 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE
Washington, DC
(202) 543-2288

City Paws Animal Hospital
1823 14th Street NW
Washington, DC
(202) 232-PAWS (7297)

Collins Veterinary Hospital
1808 Wisconsin Avenue, NW
Washington, DC
(202) 659-8830

Dupont Veterinary Clinic
2022 P Street, NW
Washington, DC
(202) 466-2211

Friendship Hospital for Animals
(open 24 hours for emergencies)
4105 Brandywine Street, NW
Washington, DC
(202) 363-7300

Georgetown Veterinary Hospital
2916 M Street, NW
Washington, DC
(202) 333-2140

Janes Veterinary Clinic
520 8th Street, SE
Washington, DC
(202) 543-6699

Kindcare Animal Hospital
3622 12th Street, NE
Washington, DC
(202) 635-3622

MacArthur Animal Hospital
4832 MacArthur Boulevard, NW
Washington, DC
(202) 337-0120

Sol Perl, D.V.M.
Housecalls for Pets (upper NW Washington)
(301) 774-5656

Petworth Animal Hospital (specializes in sterilization - handles feral (wild) cats)
4012 Georgia Avenue, NW
Washington, DC
(202) 723-7142

Ross Veterinary Hospital
5138 MacArthur Boulevard, NW
Washington, DC
(202) 363-1316

Southeast Animal Hospital
2309 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE
Washington, DC
(202) 584-2125

MARYLAND

Al-Lynn Animal Hospital
6904 Allentown Road
Camp Springs, MD
(301) 449-8822

Alpine Veterinary Hospital
7732 MacArthur Boulevard
Cabin John, MD
(301) 229-2400

Animal Allergy and Dermatology Clinic
9039 Gaither Road
Gaithersburg, MD
(301) 977-9169

Animal Clinic of North Bowie
6796 Laurel Bowie Road
Bowie, MD
(301) 464-3611

Animal Medical Hospital of Belair Road
7688 Belair Road
Baltimore, MD
(410) 661-9200

Animal Medical Center of Watkins Park
60 Watkins Park Drive
Upper Marlboro, MD
(301) 249-3030

Animal Medical Hospital at Glenwood, Inc.
Inwood Village Center
2465 Route 97, Suite 7
Glenwood, MD
(410) 489-9677

Animal Skin Disease Clinic
(practice limited to skin disease and allergies)
582 Hubbard Drive
Rockville, MD
(301) 468-7028

Annapolis Cat Hospital
2248 Bay Ridge Avenue
Annapolis, MD
(410) 268-2287

Anne Arundel Veterinary Emergency Clinic
808 Bestgate Road
Annapolis, MD
(410) 224-0331

Avian House Calls
11854 Linden Chapel Road
Clarksville, MD
(410) 531-9213

Banfield Pet Hospital
20924 Frederick Avenue
Germantown, MD
(301) 540-6251

BCA Bowie Animal Hospital
6840 Race Track Road
Bowie, MD
(301) 262-8590

Belair Veterinary Hospital
15511 Hall Road
Bowie, MD
(301) 249-5200

Best Friend's Veterinary Hospital
5100 Muncaster Mill Road
Rockville, MD
(301) 977-1881

Bowie Towne Veterinary Hospital
13801 Annapolis Road
Bowie, MD
(301) 464-0402

Bradley Hills Animal Hospital
7210 Bradley Boulevard
Bethesda, MD
(301) 365-5448

Brentwood Animal Hospital
3900 Rhode Island Avenue
Brentwood, MD
(301) 864-3164

Briggs Chaney Animal Hospital
13850 Old Columbia Pike
Silver Spring, MD
(301) 989-2226

Brookeville Animal Hospital
22201 Georgia Avenue
Brookville, MD
(301) 774-9698

Buckeystown Veterinary Clinic
3820 Buckeystown Pike
Frederick, MD
(301) 698-9930

Burtonsville Animal Hospital
15543 Old Columbia Pike
Burtonsville, MD
(301) 421-9200

Cameron's Temple Hills Animal Hospital
4900 St. Barnabas Road
Temple Hills, MD
(301) 894-2576

Canal Clinic
9125 River Road
Potomac, MD
(301) 299-0880
13507 Clopper Road
Germantown, MD
(301) 540-7770

A Cat Practice
2816 Linden Lane
Silver Spring, MD
(301) 587-0052

Chevy Chase Veterinary Clinic
8815 Connecticut Avenue
Chevy Chase, MD
(301) 656-6655

Clovery Animal Clinic
15549 New Hampshire Avenue
Silver Spring, MD
(301) 384-4162

College Park Animal Hospital
9717 Baltimore Avenue
College Park, MD
(301) 441-2547

Columbia Animal Hospital
10788 Hickory Ridge Road
Columbia, MD
(410) 730-2122
(443) 413-9031

Coolridge Animal Hospital
6801 Old Branch Avenue
Camp Springs, MD
(301) 449-1610

Crofton Vet Center
2151 Defense Highway
Crofton, MD
(410) 721-7387

Currey Animal Clinic
5439 Butler Road
Bethesda, MD
(301) 654-3000

Damascus Veterinary Hospital
24939 Ridge Road
Damascus, MD
(301) 253-2072

Del Ray Animal Hospital
9301 Old Georgetown Road
Bethesda, MD
(301) 564-1923

Diamond Veterinary Hospital
17000 Long Draft Road
Gaithersburg, MD
(301) 869-3990

Emergency Animal Center
1896 Urbana Pike #23
(entrance in rear of shopping center)
Hyattstown, MD
(301) 831-1088

Fairland Animal Hospital
12711 Old Columbia Pike
Silver Spring, MD
(301) 622-2115

Falls Road Veterinary Hospital
10229 Falls Road
Potomac, MD
(301) 983-8400

Fallston Veterinary Clinic
2615 Belair Road
Fallston, MD
(410) 877-1727

Feathers, Scales & Tails Veterinary Hospital
330 One Forty Village Road
Fairground Village
Westminster, MD
(410) 876-0244

Flower Valley Veterinary Clinic
4201 Norbeck Road
Rockville, MD
(301) 929-1600

Forestville Animal Hospital
7307 Marlboro Pike
Forestville, MD
(301) 736-5288

Ft. Meade Veterinary Treatment Facility
Rt. 175 & 20th Street
Ft. Meade, MD
(301)677-1300

Four County Animal Hospital
26528-A Ridge Road
Damascus, MD
(301) 253-6144

Fox Chapel Veterinary Hospital
19749 N. Frederick Road
Germantown, MD
(301) 540-8387

Fox Hall Veterinary Clinic
13200 Georgia Avenue
Silver Spring, MD
(301) 933-6033

Gaithersburg Animal Hospital
280 N. Frederick Avenue
Gaithersburg, MD
(301) 948-2828

Gaithersburg Square Veterinary Clinic
582 N. Frederick Avenue
Gaithersburg, MD
(301) 840-9477

Germantown Veterinary Clinic
19911 Father Hurley Boulevard
Germantown, MD
(301) 972-9730

Glen Mill Veterinary Practice
12900 Glenn Mill Road
Potomac, MD
(301) 762-7387

Glenn Dale Veterinary Clinic
10843 Lanham Severn Road
Glendale, MD
(301) 390-2325

Glenvilah Veterinary Clinic
12948-E Travilah Road
Potomac, MD
(301) 963-4664

Goshen Animal Clinic
8357 Snouffers School Road
Gaithersburg, MD
(301) 977-5586

Greater Annapolis Veterinary Hospital
1901 Generals Highway
Annapolis, MD
(410) 224-3800

Grove Center Veterinary Hospital
9033 Gaither Road
Gaithersburg, MD
(301) 963-0400

Hampden Lane Veterinary Office
4921 Hampden Lane
Bethesda, MD
(301) 951-0300

Healthy Pet Mobile Vet
(offers house calls)
301-305-3722

Highway Veterinary Hospital
2604 Crain Highway
Bowie, MD
(301) 249-2005

Hoffman Animal Hospital
15 Old Mill Bottom Road North
Annapolis, MD
(410) 757-3566

Holistic Pets and People
(Offers acupuncture, healing touch, flower essences, etc. Treats horses, rabbits, ferrets, birds, and reptiles, as well as cats and dogs.)
(301) 221-3412

House Paws In-Home Veterinary Care
(parts of Maryland; please check website for specific areas)
703-264-7879

Huffard Animal Hospital
8073 Ritchie Highway
Pasadena, MD
(410) 768-3620

Hunt Valley Animal Hospital
11206 York Road
Hunt Valley, MD
(410) 527-0800

Hyattsville Animal Hospital
4567 Rhode Island Avenue
Hyattsville, MD
(301) 864-2325

Kentlands Veterinary Hospital
117 Booth Street
Gaithersburg, MD
(301) 519-7944

Kenwood Animal Hospital
5439 Butler Road
Bethesda, MD
(301)-654-3000

Kindness Animal Hospital
2130 University Boulevard
Wheaton, MD
(301) 949-2511

Kingsbrook Animal Hospital
5322 New Design Road
Frederick, MD
(301) 631-6900

Lakeside Veterinary Center
14709 Baltimore Avenue
Laurel, MD
(301) 498-8387

Largo Veterinary Hospital
10658 Campus Way South
Largo, MD
(301) 350-4777

Little Seneca Animal Hospital
13009 Wisteria Drive
Germantown, MD
(301) 540-8670

Lutherville Animal Hospital
506 West Seminary Avenue
Lutherville, MD
(410) 296-7387

Lynn Animal Hospital
6215 Baltimore Avenue
Riverdale, Maryland
301-779-1184

Maple Springs Veterinary Hospital
14925 Dufief Mill Road
Gaithersburg, MD
(301) 424-0373

Marymont Animal Hospital
24 Randolph Road
Silver Spring, MD
(301) 384-1223

Metropolitan Emergency Animal Hospital
12106 Nebel Street
Rockville, MD
(301) 770-5225

Middlebrook Veterinary Clinic
19530 Amaranth Drive
Germantown, MD
(301) 540-0590

Montgomery Animal Hospital
Montrose Road
Rockville, MD
(301) 881-6447

Montgomery Village Animal Hospital
19222 Montgomery Village Avenue
Gaithersburg, MD
(301) 330-2200

Mt. Airy Animal Hospital
327 E. Ridgeville Boulevard
Mt. Airy, MD
(301) 829-4800
(410) 795-6926

Muddy Branch Veterinary Center
333 Muddy Branch Road
Gaithersburg, MD
(301) 963-0275

Negola's Ark
9144 Rothbury Drive
Gaithersburg, MD
(301) 216-0066

New Carrollton Veterinary Hospital
7601 Good Luck Road
Lanham, MD
(301) 552-3800

New Hampshire Avenue Animal Hospital
6701 New Hampshire Avenue
Takoma Park, MD
(301) 270-2050

Norbeck Animal Clinic
2645 Norbeck Road
Silver Spring, MD
(301) 924-3616

North Laurel Animal Hospital
Whisky Bottom Shopping Center
Laurel, MD
(301) 953-7387

Old Farm Veterinary Hospital
100 Tuscany Drive
Frederick, MD
301 846-9988

Olney-Sandy Spring Veterinary Hospital
1300 Olney-Sandy Spring Road
Silver Spring, MD
(301) 774-9500

Owings Mills Animal and Bird Hospital
9623A Reisterstown Road
Owings Mills, Maryland
(410) 363-0393

Patuxent Valley Animal Hospital
Routes 29 and 216
North Laurel, MD
(301) 490-1030

Peach Tree Vet Clinic
18620 Darnestown Road
Beallsville, MD
(301) 972-7010

Sol Perl, D.V.M.
Housecalls for Pets (southern Montgomery County)
(301) 774-5656

Pet Dominion
15820 Redland Road
Rockville, MD
(301) 258-0333

Pet Hospice Care
(offers house calls)
Dr. JoAnne Carey

PetVacx Veterinary Services
14636 Rothgeb Drive
Rockville, MD
(301) 838-9506

Poolesville Veterinary Clinic
19621 Fisher Avenue
Poolesville, MD
(301) 972-7705

Prince Georges Animal Hospital
7440 Annapolis Road
Hyattsville, MD
(301) 577-9400

Quince Orchard Veterinary Hospital
11910 Darnestown Road
N. Potomac, MD
(301) 258-0850

Reichardt Animal Hospital
125 Mayo Road
Edgewater, MD
(410) 956-4500

Rocky Gorge Animal Hospital
7515 Brooklyn Bridge Road
Laurel, MD
(301) 776-7744

Roving Pet Vet, LLC
Small Animal Veterinary Housecall Practice
20 mile radius of Frederick, MD
(301) 305-1205

Seabrook Station Animal Hospital
9453 Lanhan Severn Road
Seabrook, MD
(301) 577-3666

Silver Spring Animal Hospital
1915 Seminary Road
Silver Spring, MD
(301) 587-6099

South Arundel Veterinary Hospital
85 West Central Avenue
Edgewater, MD
(410) 956-2932
(301) 261-4388

St. Charles Animal Hospital
3 Doolittle Drive
Waldorf, MD
(310) 645-2550

Takoma Park Animal Clinic
7330 Carroll Avenue
Takoma Park, MD
(301) 270-4700

Temple Hills Animal Hospital
4900 St. Barnabas Road
Temple Hills, MD
(301) 894-2576

Three Notch Veterinary Hospital
44215 Airport View Drive
Hollywood, MD
(301) 373-8633

Town and Country Animal Clinic
2715 Olney-Sandy Spring Road
Olney, MD
(301) 774-7111

Towson Veterinary Hospital
716 North York Road
Towson, MD
(410) 825-8880

Turkey Foot Veterinary Clinic
14426 Turkey Foot Road
North Potomac, MD
(301)921-8382

Valley Animal Hospital
9157 Reisterstown Road
Baltimore, MD
(410) 363-2040

VCA Bowie Animal Hospital
6840 Race Track Road
Bowie, MD
(301) 262-8590

VCA North Rockville Animal Hospital
1390 E. Gude Drive
Rockville, MD
(301) 340-9292

VCA Squire Animal Hospital
15222 Marlboro Pike
Upper Marlboro, MD
(301) 627-4664

VCA Veterinary Referral Associates, Inc.
15021 Dufief Mill Road
Gaithersburg, MD
(301) 340-3224

Veterinary Health Care Center
632 University Boulevard
E. Silver Spring, MD
(301) 445-0170

Veterinary Holistic Care
4280 Moorland Lane
Bethesda, MD
(301) 656-2882

Waugh Chapel Animal Hospital
2638 Brandermill Boulevard
Gambrills, MD
(410)451-3700

Wheaton Animal Hospital
2929 University Boulevard
Kensington, MD
(301) 949-1520

Woodfield Veterinary Clinic
25017 Woodfield Road
Damascus, MD
(301) 253-6808

VIRGINIA

Adams Mill Veterinary Hospital
10205 Colvin Run Road
Great Falls, VA
(703) 757-7570

Alexandria Animal Hospital
(staffed 24 hours for emergencies)
2660 Duke Street
Alexandria, VA
(703) 751-2022

All Pets Veterinary Hospital and Avian Medical Center in Chantilly Virginia
43112 John Mosby Higheay, Suite 102
Chantilly, VA
(703) 327-6666

Animal Clinic of Clifton
(offers house calls)
Clifton, VA
(703) 802-0490

Animal Clinic of Tall Oaks
12004 North Shore Drive
Reston, VA
(703) 437-5600

Animal Dental Clinic
410 W. Maple Avenue
Vienna, VA
(703) 281-5900

Animal Emergency Hospital and Referral Center
(staffed 24 hours for emergencies)
2 Cardinal Park Drive
Leesburg, VA
(703) 777-5755

Animal Medical Center of Cascades
20789 Algonkian Parkway
Sterling, VA
(571) 434-0250

Annandale Animal Hospital
7405 Little River Turnpike
Annandale, VA
(703) 941-3100

Arlington Animal Hospital
2624 Columbia Pike
Arlington VA
(703) 920-5300

Ashburn Farms Animal Hospital
43330 Juncion Plaza Boulevard #172
Ashburn, VA
(703) 726-8784

Ashburn Village Animal Hospital
44110 Ashburn Shopping Plaza #172
Ashburn, VA
(703) 729-0700

Austin Veterinary Clinic
7323 Little River Turnpike
Annandale, VA
(703) 941-5300

Ballston Animal Hospital
5232 Wilson Boulevard
Arlington, VA
(703) 528-2776

Banfield
3351 Jefferson Davis Highway
Alexandria, VA
703-518-8492

Banfield
46220 Potomac Run Plaza
Sterling, VA
703-406-9591

Banfield
6535 Frontier Drive
Springfield, VA
(703) 313-8429

Barcroft Cat Clinic
6357 Columbia Pike
Arlington, VA
(703) 941-2852

Beacon Hill Cat Hospital
6610 Richmond Highway
Alexandria, VA
(703) 765-2287

Belle Haven Animal Medical Center
1221 Belle Haven Road
Alexandria, VA
(703) 721-0080

Blue Cross Animal Hospital
8429 Lee Highway
Fairfax, VA
(703) 560-1881

Broad Run Veterinary Service
149 Spring Street
Herndon, VA
(703) 435-1911

Burke Forest Veterinary Clinic
6214 Rolling Road
Springfield, VA
(703) 569-8181

Burke Veterinary Clinic
6411 Shiplett Boulevard
Burke, VA
(703) 455-6222

Capital Cat Clinic
923 N. Kenmore Street
Arlington, VA
(703) 522 1995

Cat Hospital of Fairfax, Inc.
3915 Old Lee Highway, Suite 21B
Fairfax, VA
(703) 273-5454

Centreville Animal Hospital
13663 Lee Highway
Centreville, VA
(703) 830-1182

Centreville Square Animal Hospital
12415-L Centreville Square
Centreville, VA
(703) 222-9682

Chantilly Animal Hospital
13705 Lee-Jackson Memorial Highway
Chantilly, VA
(703) 802-8387

Cherrydale Veterinary Clinic
4038 Lee Highway
Arlington VA
(703) 528-9001

Clocktower Animal Hospital
2451 Centreville Road, #I-12
Herndon, VA
(703) 713-1200

Columbia Pike Animal Hospital
(Chiropractic services no longer available: Jana Froeling, DVM has moved; see Veterinary Holistic and Rehabilitation Center and Full Circle Equine Service in Amissville, VA (below)
4205 Evergreen Lane
Annandale, VA
(703) 256-8414

Commonwealth Animal Hospital
10860 Main Street
Fairfax, VA
(703) 273-8183

Colvin Run Veterinary Clinic
1203 Downey Drive
Vienna, VA
(703) 759-4500

Companion Animal Clinic
10998 Clara Barton Drive
Fairfax Station, VA
(703) 250-4100

Companion Animal Hospital
7297 Commerce Street
Springfield, VA
(703) 866-4100

Companion Paws Mobile Veterinary Service
(offers house calls)
serving Northern Virginia
(703) 450-6360

Crosspointe Animal Hospital
8975 Village Shops Drive
Fairfax Station, VA
(703) 690-6600

Crossroads Animal Care Center
12950 Troupe Street
Woodbridge, VA
(703) 497-PETS

Del Ray Animal Hospital
524 E. Mt. Ida Avenue
Alexandria, VA
(703) 739-0000

Dominion Animal Hospital
795 Station Street
Herndon, VA
(703) 437-6900

Dunn Loring Animal Hospital
2304 Gallows Road
Dunn Loring, VA
(703) 573-7464

Eastern Exotic Veterinary Center (part of Pender clinic)
4001 Legato Road
Fairfax, VA
(703) 654-3100

Elpaw
33 S. Pickett Street
Alexandria, VA
(703) 751-3707

Emergency Veterinary Clinic of Northern Virginia
see: The Hope Center for Advanced Veterinary Medicine in VA

Exotic Pet Clinic
7297 Commerce Street
Springfield, VA
(703) 451-2414

Fairfax Animal Hospital
5914 Seminary Road
Bailey's Crossroads, VA
(703) 820-2557

Fairfax Equine Service
(mobile clinic for horses)
(703) 849-8981

Falls Church Animal Hospital
1249 West Broad Street
Falls Church, VA
(703) 532-6121

Feline Veterinary Clinic (cats only)
7189 Lee Highway
Falls Church, VA
(703) 241-8480

Ft. Hunt Animal Hospital
1900 Elkins Street
Alexandria, VA
(703) 360-6100

Full Circle Equine Service (Dr. Jana Froeling offers chiropractic, acupuncture, and standard medical care)
Amissville, VA
(540) 937-1754

Georgetown Pike Veterinary Clinic
9891 Georgetown Pike
Great Falls, VA
(703) 759-4410

Great Falls Animal Hospital
10125 Colvin Run Road
Great Falls, VA
(703) 759-2330

Greenbriar Animal Hospital
13035-C Lee Jackson Highway
Fairfax, VA
(703) 378-8813

Hayfield Animal Hospital
7724 Telegraph Road
Alexandria, VA
(703) 971-2127

Herndon Animal Medical Center
720 Jackson Street
Herndon, VA
(703) 435-8777

Herndon-Reston Animal Hospital
500 Elden Street
Herndon, VA
(703) 437-5655

Hollin Hall Animal Hospital
7930 Ft Hunt Road
Alexandria, VA
(703) 660-0044

Holistic Veterinary Health, Inc.
(offers acupuncture and other holistic treatments)
12700 Chapel Road
Clifton, VA
(703) 449-9144

The Hope Center for Advanced Veterinary Medicine
(staffed 24 hours for emergencies)
140 Park Street SE (moved to this location)
Vienna, VA
(703) 281-5121

House Paws In-Home Veterinary Care
703-264-7879

Hunter Mill Animal Hospital
2935 Chain Bridge Road
Oakton, VA
(703) 281-1644

Hybla Valley Veterinary Hospital
7627 Richmond Highway
Alexandria, VA
(703) 965-9292

Jermantown Animal Hospital
4035 Jermantown Road
Fairfax, VA
(703) 273-5055

Kingstowne Cat Clinic
5830 Kingstowne Center Dr. Suite 120
Alexandria, VA
(703) 922-8228

Kingsview Animal Hospital
7434 Beulah Street
Alexandria, VA
(703) 971-9292

Little River Veterinary Clinic
4000 Burke Station Road
Fairfax, VA
(703) 273-5110

Maple Shade Animal Hospital
5597 Mapledale Plaza
Dale City, VA
(703) 670-7668

McLean Animal Hospital
1330 Old Chainbridge Road
McLean, VA
(703) 356-5000

Morganna Animal Clinic and Boarding Kennel
9050 Liberia Avenue
Manassas, VA
(703) 361-4196

Mt. Vernon Animal Hospital
8623 Richmond Highway
Alexandria, VA
(703) 360-6600

Northern Virginia Home Veterinary Services
Ronald J. Frank, DVM
(703) 938-1771

Northside Veterinary Clinic
4003 Lee Highway
Arlington, VA
(703) 525-7115

Oakton-Vienna Veterinary Hospital
(sees exotics and pocket pets, too)
320 Maple Avenue, East
Vienna, VA
(703) 938-2800

Old Dominion Animal Health Center
6719 Lowell Avenue
McLean, VA
(703) 356-5582

Old Town Veterinary Clinic
425 North Henry Street
Alexandria, VA
(703) 549-3647

Parkway Veterinary Clinic
5749 Burke Center Parkway
Burke, VA
(703) 323-9020

Paws to Heal Veterinary Clinic formerly called Veterinary holistic and Rehabilitation Center
(offers acupuncture, chiropractic and other holistic treatments)
360 Maple Avenue, West
Vienna, VA
(703) 938-2563

Pender Veterinary Clinic
4001 Legato Road
Fairfax, VA
(703) 591-3304

Pet Home Care
Dharm Singh, DVM
(703) 435-VETS

Reston Animal Hospital
2403 Reston Parkway
Reston, VA
(707) 620-2566

Ridge Lake Animal Hospital
1400 Old Bridge Road
Woodbridge, VA
(703) 690-4949

Sacramento Veterinary Hospital
8794-D Sacramento Drive
Alexandria, VA
(703) 780-2808

Saratoga Animal Hospital
8054 Rolling Road
Springfield, VA
(703) 455-1188

Seneca Hill Animal Hospital
11415 Georgetown Pike
Great Falls, VA
(703)450-6760

Seven Corners Animal Hospital and Five Paws Pet Resort
6300 Arlington Boulevard
Falls Church, VA
(703) 534-1156

SouthPaws Veterinary Referral Center
(staffed 24 hours for emergencies)
(offers ultrasound, radiology, neurosurgery, holistic medicine, intensive care, oncology, orthopedics)
8500 Arlington Boulevard (recently moved from Springfield)
Fairfax, VA
(703) 752-9100

Springfield Animal Hospital
6580 Backlick Road
Springfield, VA
(703) 451-1995

Springfield Emergency Veterinary Hospital
(staffed 24 hours for emergencies)
(specializes in dermatology, cardiology, intensive care, oncology, radiation oncology, CAT scan, radioiodine)
6651-F Backlick Road
Springfield, VA
(703) 451-8900

Sterling Park Animal Hospital
800 West Church Road
Sterling, VA
(703) 430-3000

Suburban Animal Hospital
6879 Lee Highway
Arlington, VA
(703) 532-4043

Town and Country Animal Hospital
9780 Lee Highway
Fairfax, VA
(703) 273-2110

University Animal Hospital
10681 Braddock Road
Fairfax, VA
(703) 385-1054

VCA-Barcroft Cat Hospital
6357 Columbia Pike
Bailey's Crossroads, VA
(703) 941-2852

VCA-Old Town Animal Hospital
425 N. Henry Street
Alexandria, VA
(703) 549-3647

Veterinary Holistic and Rehabilitation Center now called Paws to Heal Veterinary Clinic
(offers acupuncture, chiropractic and other holistic treatments)
360 Maple Avenue, West
Vienna, VA
(703) 938-2563

Veterinary House Call Service
2026 Golf Course Drive
Reston, VA
(703) 620-3919

Vienna Animal Hospital
531 Maple Avenue West
Vienna, VA
(703) 938-2121

Village Veterinary Clinic
9534 Burke Road
Burke, VA
(703) 978-8655

Westfields Animal Hospital
5095 Westfields Boulevard
Centreville, VA
(703) 378-3028

Woodbridge Animal Hospital
(staffed 24 hours for emergencies)
13312 Jefferson Davis Highway
Woodbridge, VA
(703) 494-5191

Iams Pet Imaging Center
328 Maple Avenue East
Vienna, VA
703-281-9440
(MRI's for pets)

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Monday, June 13, 2011

So You Want To Buy/Adopt A Cat/Dog? Have You Really Thought About It?


So you are ready to get a pet? Have you really taken the time to think it out? Or is this a sudden reaction to a pet you saw in a pet store? I have listed some tips on purchasing or adopting a pet.

1. What type of pet would fit your lifestyle? Are you away from home for long hours?

DOGS:

a. If you are getting a puppy, did you know that they will need to relieve themselves every 2-3 hours. It is very important that you do not leave a puppy alone for longer than 2-3 hours. They have no muscle control. If you must leave them make sure that you have left them fresh water and an area covered with potty pads or newspapers. Make sure that they are confined to a small area where they can not get out and possibly hurt themselves.

b.  If your are getting an older dog, it needs to socialize, and leaving him home alone for 8-10 hours each day can result in separation anxiety issues, not to mention excessive barking and sometimes destructive behavior to the house.

c. Are you going to spend time with your dog, letting it out every morning and evening to take care of it’s business. If you take it out for walks, are you prepared to carry a dogie bag and clean up behind it…like every pet parent should do!

d. Now, comes the Vet. Your dog needs to see the Vet at least once a year for all of it’s shots, and maybe sometimes if it gets sick.  Are you prepared finanically to pay for this? I had two shih-tzu’s, they have both crossed over the Rainbow Bridge now.  Their Vet bills ran me approximately $150 a year. Not to mention they where both sick before they passed. One had heart disease and the other one had cancer. Both required medications and at some point hospitalization which can be very costly.

You should have your pet spayed or neutered when it is at the correct age. Talk to your Vet. This will cut down on the population of so many homeless animals.

I am telling you this because while they are cute…they can be costly! The point is that if you are not prepared to properly take care of an animal don’t get it. Some of these animals only end up adding to the homeless population of animals.

e. Some long-haired dogs require grooming every 4 –6 weeks depending on the dog. My shih-tzu’s where groomed approximately every 6 weeks at $50 each. In between grooming they had to be constantly brushed to keep their hair from matting.

f. If you decide to purchase a dog, please do your research and stay away from the puppy mills! If you purchase it from a breeder or a pet store. Please spend the money within the next 2 days after purchase to have it checked over by a Vet of your choice.

g. You must dog proof your home if you have a new puppy. Puppies love to chew when they are teething…and will chew on anything. Keep things out of the way!

h. One last thing…do you travel? If you don’t have a family member or a neighbor to check on your dog…you will have to board it. Think about how often you travel, will it be fair for the dog to be boarded several times a month?


CATS

While a cat does not require as much attention as a dog, it does require attention!

a. Before choosing a new adult cat or kitten, it is important to take time to research.. A cat's personality, age, and appearance, as well as the kinds of pets you already have at home, are all things you should keep in mind when choosing a cat. It is very important to know in advance exactly what taking care of your new kitten/cat will involve.

b. I you get a  kitten, it will need it’s first set of shots by eight weeks, and the second set three or four weeks later. Please spend the money within the next 2 days after purchase to have it checked over by a Vet of your choice. If you adopt, it will probably have already been checked by a Vet.

c. Traditionally, cats are spayed or neutered at six months of age or older. However, some veterinarians recommend performing the procedure at an earlier age, to further ensure against unwanted pregnancies.

d. Never feed a kitten cow's milk or human baby formula as this causes stomach upset and severe diarrhea. If a kitten is already dehydrated, this could prove fatal. This includes condensed/evaporated canned cow's milk!

e. Your new kitten  will instinctively clean itself. You can help keep your little kitten by cleaning them with a damp washrag. Often they need to have their little rear-ends cleaned…by you!

f. Your kitten will start to scratch at things at an early age. This is the time to start training it! If you provide a small scratching post or pad and keep it wherever they usually play, they will learn to use it. Take time to encourage them to use it by enticing them with a toy or some catnip. Gives them praise when they uses it

g. Most kittens naturally feel the urge to dig in litter as early as 4 weeks.  If you interfere with your kitten while he's in the litter box, it may develop an aversion to using it.  Be patient.  Instinct will guide your kitten or cat to developing good litter box habits.

h. Long-haired cats need regular brushing to keep hair from matting. But even short-haired cats should be brushed regularly to keep their coat in good condition. It’ll also keep them from swallowing an excess of hair when they groom themselves, which can cause fur balls.

i. You must cat proof your home. Kittens especially love to run around and scratch and chew on things. It may be necessary to take your roll of toilet paper off of the dispenser. Cats love to play in toilet paper!

j. One last thing…do you travel? If you do, you don’t have the same worries as with a dog. Depending on how long you will be gone you can leave a food and water dispenser out for your cat. You may also want a family member or neighbor come over and check on it.

Please think about these things before you decided to purchase a pet,. Especially one from a  shelter. They have already been through a lot and look at adoption as a new life!


****Never, ever give a pet as a gift! So many of these pets end up in the shelter!****


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Saturday, June 11, 2011

Why Is Your Pet Special To You?


We all know that our pets have a special place in our hearts! But is there something extra special about your Pet?






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Friday, June 10, 2011

Pet Loss – The Companion Pet Left Behind (True Story)


This is my true story, and what I experienced with my dog when he lost his companion.  I got Sugar my sweet little Shih-Tzu in February 1996, at the age of about 6 weeks old. My husband and I both worked so she was alone all day. She did not have the run of the house while we were gone. We had her area section off with a food, water, bed, toys and potty pads.

As she got a little older we purchased her a loveseat…yeah, a loveseat! We also purchased the little steps so that she could have access to get up on the loveseat. She soon learned to jump from the loveseat and sit up in the big picture window and look out.

One evening a neighbor stopped us and told us that she sits in that window all day looking for us.  The thought of her being lonely prompted me to get her a companion. I looked in the want ads and found that someone was selling Shih-Tzu puppies and had only 2 left. They were asking $200 which included shots and a can of dog food.

We took Sugar with us to pick out her companion. Sugar who was about 10 pounds now was much bigger than the 2 little puppies that they showed us. I had told my husband on the way over that “which ever one is attracted to her…will be the one we will get!”

It didn’t take long for little Domino to zero in on her. He started trying to chase her and he could barely walk. It was really funny because she was trying to avoid him. I decided then that he would be the one.

We had already came equipped with a carrier, and placed Domino in it on the backseat with Sugar. While riding along Sugar began to bark, I looked back and Domino was out of the carrier crawling up on her. We pulled over to put him back in. My husband swears that he latched the gate! We laughed and joked about calling him Houdini!

Sugar and Domino bonded immediately. Her motherly instincts kicked in and he started following her around everywhere. As time passed, I realized that was the best thing to do. When we would arrive home they would both be in the window and start having fits when they recognized the car! We would have to slowly open the door so that we would not hit one of them!

Sugar was the dominant one, always barking the loudest, pushing Domino back at treat time, pushing him away from the water…and trying to get all of the attention. Domino was very quiet, hardly ever barking and became submissive to her. He let her run the show! She would be the first at the door if anyone knocked. If I was on the phone, she would immediately start barking loud.  She could roll her eyes when she got mad…she was a little pistol!

In August of 2008, Sugar was diagnosed with heart problems. She was put on medications and eventually had to be returned to the animal hospital to be put on oxygen. Sugar crossed over the Rainbow Bridge on October 2, 2008.

The first couple of days after losing Sugar, Domino was walking the house, sniffing in every corner. I know he was looking for her. He would not eat and began to scratch himself. He scratched out a patch area on his leg. I took him to the Vet who ruled out any type of allergy.  He was put on medication and a few days later he began to take on her personality! He started barking loud, running to the door when someone came. His appetite picked up. Because I had lost her only a few days earlier I had not removed her bed. He started sleeping in her bed. He even started barking when I got on the phone! I called the Vet and asked what was going on with him.  He told me that sometime a companion pet will take on the deceased pet’s personality. He said that Domino did not know where she was, and that now he was the alpha dog…no more following her around, he was in charge now!

After a few days he stopped the sniffing and looking around the house. He no longer scratched himself…but wanted all the attention. If my husband and I were sitting down together, he would jump up in between us. Of course, hubby knew he had to move over!

He started this new thing of standing at the top of the stairs around 9:00 p.m. barking. The first time that he did it, I went up to see what was wrong. He beat me to the bedroom and jumped in the middle of the bed! Neither of them had ever slept in my bed at least now when hubby was home! They had beds downstairs and upstairs! I came downstairs and told my husband that he was calling us to go to bed. My husband replied with what, “now he is deciding when we need to go to bed!”  This went on for a few days until I decided to put a stop to it. I blocked the staircase off and finally he realized that he was not in charge of us!

You guessed it, a few days later I awakened in the morning to find him asleep at the bottom of our bed. My husband said, “maybe you should call the Vet.” I told him that he was just lonely and was missing Sugar. I would wait until my husband fell asleep and put him up in the bed with us. For some reason he would crawl over and sleep on my husband’s feet. I would pull him away hoping not to awaken hubby…and he would crawl right back. Finally, hubby gave in, and Domino was sleeping with us every night!

Domino crossed the Rainbow Bridge on February 25, 2011. I will be writing a story about him soon. It’s only been about 4 months since I lost him and I am still grieving my baby. I took it really hard when I lost Domino. When I lost Sugar I still had him. Now that he is gone, my house is really quiet…empty.

When my heart is ready I will be giving a forever home to a homeless animal…I will never pay for a pet again!


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Are You Considering Declawing Your Cat?


The American Society for the Prevention for Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) says, Cats’ claws are a vital part of their arsenal for both offense and defense. They use them to capture prey and to settle disputes among themselves as well as with other animals and people who are hurting, threatening or annoying them.

Scratching with the front claws is normal, instinctive behavior for cats. The purpose of this activity is to remove old, worn fragments of nails. Though scratching is normal for cats, this behavior can be destructive and costly in the home

It is a must that a declawed cat be confined indoors, since the claws are its primary means of defense. Many times a veterinarian will have to deal with severe injuries to a declawed cat that "just slipped out" and got attacked by a dog because they will, based on individual personality, choose either to fight or run- with or without claws.

The procedure of declawing is know as Onychectomy. This procedure is not advised for older cats since cats claws are attached to the last joint therefore the whole last joint is removed.

Before you make the decision to declaw your cat, you should know that, declawing is not like a manicure. It is serious surgery. Your cat's claw is not a toenail. It is actually closely adhered to the bone.

Try not judge people for decisions made as long as they were thought out and without malice or cruelty involved. There was a man who loved his cat dearly and the cat would play fight him. Unfortunately, this man had AIDS and risked serious infection with the slightest scratch. It was an older cat and being mean spirited was not a candidate for adoption. He chose to declaw the cat and the cat recovered well and he continued to play fight with his owner.

Remember that declawing is not a natural nor health saving process, though it may be the only way for you and your pet. And it is harder on the cat.






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Tuesday, June 7, 2011

Have You Ever Owned A Guinea Pig? Would You Consider Having One As A Pet?


Have you ever owned a guinea pig? Then you know they make wonderful companions! They are docile members of the rodent family, rarely bite and are known for squeaking with delight when their favorite humans enter the room.

Guinea pigs are excellent pets for older children who have learned proper handling techniques. They are the gentlest of the pocket pets, which include mice, hamsters, rats and gerbils and so are ideal pets for responsible children.

Guinea pigs drink a lot of water and love to run the water out of the bottles! Water bottles with stainless steel ball bearing sipper tubes are the best kind to use.

Before buying a guinea pig, please consider these facts:

1. They are social animals.

2. They are usually quiet they can call out quite loudly.
3. They can be active both day and night.
4. Consider keeping a same sex pair so they have company.
5.  Their life span is around 5-7 years, however, they have been known to live longer.
6.  They are a long-term commitment.
7. They can generally become very tame with frequent handling.
8. A pair of females is a good choice, while a pair of males may fight.
9. They may be a little nervous at first, but they rarely bite.
10. You can purchase a cage…or make your own.
11. Keep the cage in an area where temperatures range between 65 - 75 F (18-25C). Guinea pigs handle cold quite well but they are very susceptible to heat stroke.

Appearances:

Guinea pigs are larger than hamsters, but smaller than rabbits. They have rounded stout body, with no visible tail. However, a few tail vertebrae can be felt under the skin. They are approximately 10 inches long, and can weigh between  2-3 pounds. They also come in a variety of colors

Health:

You should choose a Veterinarian that works with exotic pets, guinea pigs, parrots and other small animals. Always contact your Vet if you observe any of the following: Your pet has not eaten for more than eight hours; has very labored breathing; is bleeding from mouth, rectum or genital area; inability to urinate; extreme lethargy; and diarrhea that is watery and foul-smelling.

Please take a look at this cute video showing 3 guinea pigs fighting over a cucumber!


                                                                       Click on image to enlarge.
                                                                        photo Guineapigs-2_zpsc7dad9c0.jpg FOLLOW US!
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