12-Year-Old Senior Dog Receives A Human Pacemaker That Saved Her Life

by Angela Vuckovic

July 29th, 2023 11:50 AM

Bestkadr/Shutterstock

When you cherish the companionship your four-legged friend gives you and love them over the years, it is only natural to want to do everything you can to stretch the time you get to have by their side. This is exactly how Richard Berg, a native Minnesotan, felt when he learned that his beloved 12-year-old Miniature Schnauzer Tara had some serious health issues.

In an interview with the PEOPLE magazine, Richard said that this February, "every once in a while Tara would just collapse. Sometimes she'd tip over and kick her legs up." It was a clear sign that something was really wrong. “It was really scary,” Berg said. "Her heart sometimes stopped for as long as 14 seconds.”

As soon as he saw something was not as it should be, Richard rushed his senior friend to the River Veterinary Center in nearby Preston, Minnesota. After a thorough examination, the vet concluded that 12-year-old Tara had heart issues, and was suffering from sick sinus syndrome, a serious disease that targets the heart. The ideal remedy for this, his vet said, was a human pacemaker – a small device that can help remedy the heart’s irregular rhythm.

At first, Richard thought there was nothing to be done, as the costs of such a device - and the operation - would likely be very high. But the truth was much different. By chance, Richard got in touch with Medtronic, a medical device company that donates human pacemakers to be used in veterinary operations. Medtronic has donated more than 300 pacemakers so far, including the one used in Tara’s operation. The pacemakers are donated to CanPacers, a nonprofit organization focused on pet cardiology that distributes these pacemakers to veterinary hospitals.

And so, with a bit of good luck and help from some very generous groups, Tara the beloved schnauzer got a second chance. At the University of Minnesota's College of Veterinary Medicine a routine, two-hour operation was performed, and the tiny doggo received a human-grade pacemaker. After a stable recovery, Tara got to go home with her favorite human, where she has been recovering perfectly ever since. "She hasn't had any issues since the pacemaker was put in," Richard Bergs says, endlessly happy that his dear pet is no longer in danger.

Angela Vuckovic

A proud mama to seven dogs and ten cats, Angela spends her days writing for her fellow pet parents and pampering her furballs, all of whom are rescues. When she's not gushing over her adorable cats or playing with her dogs, she can be found curled up with a good fantasy book.

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Dog Insurance Pros and Cons

Going over the good and bad of dog insurance You’ve been antagonizing over the decision of whether or not to buy dog insurance. Sure, your puppy may be healthy now, but what about in the future? You can’t predict if your dog will get into an accident or get cancer and require costly treatment. On the other hand, your dog may only require yearly vet visits for many years. So what should you do? Let’s go over a few pros and cons of dog insurance… we hope it will make the decision a bit clearer for you. PROS: There are lots of dog insurance companies to choose from, and all of them offer a variety of policies and coverage. These policies cover all types of vet care, from annual checkups and immunizations, to long-term treatment and rehabilitation.You can pick your own vet. It doesn’t matter which one you go to, as long as they are licensed. Just submit the bill to your dog insurance company to file a claim.If your dog gets ill or is in an accident, the vet bills can reach into the thousands. Dog insurance could save you from making the painful decision of going into debt or putting your dog down.If you have multiple dogs, you can save on certain insurance policies.Peace of mind that comes with knowing your dog will get the treatment it requires when it gets sick and you won’t have to dip into your saving account to pay for it.Now that dog insurance is gaining popularity, some larger companies are offering it to its workers as part of a benefits program.Depending on which company you go with, some policies include prescription foods or alternative therapy, such as acupuncture or chiropractic care.Many dog insurance plans are customizable, which means you can pick and choose what coverages you’d like on your policy. Let’s go over a few pros and cons of dog insurance… we hope it will make the decision a bit clearer for you. CONS: You have to pay for the vet bill out-of-pocket first. Only after you pay are you able to send in the paid bill to get reimbursed.It can be expensive – there are deductibles, annual premiums, limits on pre-existing conditions, and exclusions for hereditary defects.You can’t claim pre-existing health conditions. If your dog already has cancer, the dog insurance company won’t cover any treatments relating to the pre-existing issue.Benefit limits can be low. Be sure to read the fine print – if you go with a cheaper plan, it’s not going to offer you and your dog much coverage. Some policies only cover accidents and illnesses, so be sure you know what you’d be paying for.Some policies have age-limits set within its plans. If you have an older dog, it may have reduced coverage or it may not even qualify for coverage.You’ll always have to pay something extra, on top of what you’re paying the dog insurance company. Most dog insurance policies pay between 50 and 75 percent of the total medical charges. Check for the maximum amounts a dog insurance policy will pay. No matter which option you go with, always have enough money saved for the unexpected. If you don’t go with dog insurance, set up an account where you can put a certain amount of money into it monthly – that way, you’ll be able to cover your dog’s health issues when they pop up.

Dog Laws – Gracie’s Law Says Dogs More Than Property

Are There Dog Laws In Place To Protect Your Best Friend? Your dog is a member of your family, not a piece of property. But that’s how your state probably sees it. It’s like if something in your home was lost, stolen or damaged – the same rules apply to your dog. When it comes to dog laws, not everyone in your house is treated equal. A lot of people think these dog laws need to be changed, including Kenneth Newman, a 33-year veterinarian and author of the book, “Meet Me at the Rainbow Bridge.” He has proposed a law called Gracie’s Law, which recognizes the emotional bond between pet and owner and entitles the owner of a pet killed through an act of malice or negligence to $25,000 in damages. Related: Logan’s Law Will Mandate Animal Abusers Registry, Tougher Penalties The dog law comes out of a personal tragedy –Newman’s dog Gracie was killed in April 2008 when a driver backed up 25 yards without looking, crushing Newman and Gracie between two vehicles. He suffered a broken leg, but Gracie was killed in the accident. “An attorney looked me in the eye and said that my dog was a piece of property, that I wasn’t entitled to anything for the dog, and that this was a simple broken-leg case,” said Newman. When the case went to court, Newman learned that the loss of his beloved companion had no standing in the case. “An attorney looked me in the eye and said that my dog was a piece of property, that I wasn’t entitled to anything for the dog, and that this was a simple broken-leg case,” said Newman. Related: Police Dog’s Heroic Sacrifice The Inspiration Behind Aron’s Law In every state, he says, laws view pets as property. Owners are entitled to no more than replacement value, which means no worth or consideration when it comes the loss of companionship, grief, or pain and suffering. Recently, there has been an increase of cases involving pet owners, one of the most common being visitation when a martial union ends in separation or divorce. As well, a case that went to court in April saw a Denver judge award $65,000 for the death of a dog when a cleaning service allowed the dog to get outside, where it was hit by a car. What do you think about Gracie’s Law? Does it go too far or not far enough? Do you think it has a chance of passing? Do you have an experience where this law would have helped you? Please leave your thoughts, stories and opinions about dog laws in the comments section below.

What To Look For In A Doggie Daycare

Tips On What The Perfect Doggie Daycare Will Offer Only dog people can relate to how important it is to find the right doggie daycare for your fur baby. There are lots of reasons why your pup would need to go to doggie daycare: perhaps you’re away all day, or maybe your dog needs some socialization skills, or you just feel better when your dog is being taken care of by caring people. Whatever your reasons are, there is some homework involved in finding the right doggie daycare for your pooch. There are a range of doggie daycare facilities to choose from. Vets and groomers offer day boarding, as do well-known pet stores, retailers and open-space facilities. There are even people offering their own doggie daycare from their homes. We’ve put together a few tips for you to watch for when picking out a doggie daycare. There is some homework involved in finding the right doggie daycare for your pooch. Initial assessments: Not all dogs are a good fit for a particular facility. Because dogs have different temperaments, always insist that your dog receives an initial assessment to see if it’s a suitable environment. The other dogs that hang out at that doggie daycare may have a totally different energy than your dog’s – during your first visit, introduce your pooch to the group slowly and safely.Cleanliness is next to dogliness: You can’t expect a doggie daycare to be so clean that you can eat off the floor (ick), but it should be tidy and shouldn’t smell like a dog bathroom. Take a look around and make sure accidents (because they do happen) are cleaned up quickly and the other dogs are healthy looking.Supervision and Staff: Someone needs to be the pack leader, even when dogs are playing. A good doggie daycare will have proper supervision to ensure proper doggie manners are present at play. A live body should be with the pack at all times – lazy dog sitting by glancing now and then through a window or gate isn’t going to cut it. A good rule of thumb is there should be one human to every 10 to 15 dogs.Size does matter: Is there enough room for your dog to play, both indoors and out? Inside, your dog should have about 70 to 100 square feet of space to run around off leash. As for outdoor space, it should be more than just a place for your dog to do his business. Being inside all the time is boring, even for a dog. The doggie daycare you choose should have a large, secure space to play and get some fresh air (and of course, have a pee break).Experience and Control: You don’t want to leave your best friend with someone who has no experience working with dogs. Ask questions and find out how long the doggie daycare has been in business, who is in charge and how experienced they are when it comes to working with dogs. Ask around at the dog park or at a local dog club to see what businesses come highly recommended. And see what kind of control measures the daycare employs. Look for positive reinforcement training rather than a doggie daycare that uses aggressive or physically tactics. Do you put your dog into a doggie daycare program? Would you recommend it? Leave your comments below. And if you are on the hunt for a doggie daycare, make sure to go to more than one business before making your decision – it’s not all about convenience or locale, it’s about your dog’s safety and comfort.

Chinese Crested

Chinese Crested Basics If you’ve been looking for a breed of dog that makes an excellent companion in a myriad of ways – avoids barking, gets along with children, and gets along with other dogs – you could do far, far worse than opt for a Chinese Crested. The Chinese Crested dog is considered among the best companion breeds for a number of reasons: not only for those mentioned, but for its appearance, general demeanor, and ability to perform tricks. In other words, acquiring a Chinese Crested for yourself and your family can be a great decision indeed. There are two kinds of Chinese Crested dogs – the Powderpuff and the Hairless. Both types are odorless, non-shedding, and hypo-allergenic, which makes them a great dog for allergy sufferers. If you have the opportunity to acquire one for yourself and make it a part of your family, you’ll find it makes an ideal pet for households with small children and it’s a dog that won’t make strangers feel unwelcome. If there ever was a “house dog,” this is one. The Chinese Crested dog is considered among the best companion breeds for a number of reasons. Origin Despite what its name suggests, many people do not believe that the Chinese Crested actually originated in China. For one, the Chinese Crested does not keep in line with a number of ancient Chinese dogs like the Pug or the Chow Chow. The Chinese Crested has too recent a history to be counted among those breeds in pure historical longevity. Where, then, do Chinese Crested dogs hail from? Many believe it’s actually Africa, being referred to as an African Hairless Terrier in texts across the 19th century. (Note: Of course, the 19th century is far off from the origins of the more ancient Chinese breeds.) Because there is genetic evidence of being related to the Mexican Hairless, this further confuses the issue, although following the genetic line will probably lead you to form a more accurate opinion. Those who do believe the Chinese Crested originated in China note that the Chinese Crested had a lot of maritime experience, being brought around by Chinese sailors. The truth is probably a combination of all of these, as the Chinese Crested was believed to have descended from African roots. Pedigree

English Setter

English Setter Basics When you own a dog of a specific and pure breed, admit it: part of you wants to be the kind of owner who gets approached. “What kind of breed is that?” your fellow dog admirers might ask you, eager to hear what you’ve got to say. Arousing this kind of attention appeals to our vanity, sure, but it also underlies a very deep appreciation for the variety and pure breeding that occurs within the world of dogs. After all, you wouldn’t feel very special about your dog’s specific breed unless there was something inherently interesting about it. That’s a perfect introduction into the world of the English Setter – you’re reading right, not the Irish Setter – a unique breed that is instantly recognizable. Well, instantly recognizable as long as you know what English Setters look like. This breed, of course, belongs to the setter group and is similarly bred for both athleticism and a workmanlike attitude. You don’t have to go very far for a friend if you’ve got an English Setter. But if you want to have an answer to that question “What kind of breed is that?” you’ve got to know a thing or two about English Setters. Don’t worry… you’re about to learn. Generally easy-going, the English Setter is prone to obedience and loyalty. Origin One glance at the name of this breed will tell you that this dog was originally bred for hunting, like many similar dogs and dogs in its pedigree. The English Setter’s position in the world of hunting, at least as it started out, was to flush out game and make it ready to shoot. Quite simply, the English Setter needs to not only have a good nose, but a good ability to understand a specific task and perform it with obedience and loyalty. That obedience and loyalty has marked the history of the English Setter through some four or five hundred years of breeding. Experts place the English Setters roots this far back as it’s quite apparent that the English Setter has been helping hunters all over the world for at least a few centuries. During the 19th century, the Setter saw a lot of further development and breeding, especially as a man named R. Percival Llewellin bred English Setters to enhance its beauty and its overall look. Consequently, the English Setter today has a very distinctive appearance and can be considered one of the best-looking dogs that belong to the setter group. Pedigree

Let It Rain: Gold Paw Series Has Your Pup Covered

The warmth of fleece is paired with a waterproof back panel for the Portland Pullover. This hybrid pullover keeps your dog dry and looking sharp in the wettest of weather. We’re big fans of Gold Paw Series around here. Their stretchy fleece pullover is a staple at my house in the spring, fall and winter – it’s easy to put on and take off, and keeps Oscar toasty when we go out for a walk or pee break. But the all-over fleece pullover doesn’t cut it when it’s rainy and wet outside. And that’s where the Portland Pullover comes in. The Portland Pullover is a hybrid design, incorporating the easy-wearing style that makes the Stretch Fleece so popular. Along with the fleece underbelly, this coat features the BionicECO Softshell up top. Its waterproof material repels rain and dirt like nobody’s business. And thanks to its stretchy Cirrus fleece belly and neck design, the Portland pulls right over your dog for easy and secure fitting.

Nikon’s Heartography Camera Turns Dogs Into Pup-arazzi [Video]

Coming soon (fingers crossed) – the Nikon dog-mounted Heartography 3D-printed camera case that snaps pics based on your dog’s heart rate. A ball thrown across the yard, a chatty squirrel, his favourite treats, the cat’s butt… what gets your little guy’s heart racing and his creative juices flowing? Well, if iconic photography giant Nikon has its way, it won’t be long before you can see for yourself. Yes, the innovative master of all things digital is busy working on a “heartography” proto-type dog-mounted camera case that will snap those special moments, capturing forever the images that make Rover leap for joy and run around like a lunatic. Related: Product Review: GoPro Fetch Dog Harness Likely inspired by the number of GoPro videos taken by cameras strapped to the backs of dogs, Nikon may well be on to something with their harness style digital camera. How does it work? A 3D-printed custom case is strapped around your pooch and is connected to a heart-rate monitor similar to what runners use to track their heartbeat. The case holds a digital camera and when your dog’s heart rate spikes, the case snaps a photo. Voila – an instant pho-dog-rapher (we can’t take credit for that title – it’s coined by Nikon). The idea is when your dog sees something that excites him, his heart rate goes up. That means the things that get your dog’s pulse racing will be captured on camera. Related: Puppies Frolicking Through Dandelions Will Make Your Day [Video] Well, the Annie Leibovitz’s of the world might argue that point, but I’ll bite… how well do these candid camera shots turn out? According to Nikon, the photos taken by their test dog “aren’t terrible – no worse than a human’s incidental snaps”… awww, even the top dogs at Nikon don’t want to say dogs make lousy photographers! And we all know our pooch’s heart rates soars by just the thought of a car ride, a walk, a treat… so let’s hope the camera used has loads and loads of storage space. So will this fun dog accessory ever see the light of day? Apparently it’s still in the development phase and Nikon is keeping mum on whether it will ever make it to production (Nikon, please note that we really, really need this!). Of course if it does, pet parents will be forced to make the difficult decision of which pictures to keep and which to erase because as with kindergarten artwork, the fridge can only accommodate so artistic talent! Watch the video below of the Heartography in action!

Natural Health: Brewer’s Yeast Benefits For Dogs

Looking to add a natural supplement to your pooch’s diet? You’ll find Brewer’s yeast benefits for dogs may help sort out a few pesky health issues. We all want to make our dogs a little healthier. Here’s an easy way to do it!

Wetterhoun

Wetterhoun Basics After nearly going extinct during World War II, the Wetterhoun breed has regained some of its numbers but it remains a rare breed. This dog is known for its coarse, curly coat and its abilities as a gun dog. If you are looking for an active breed that can be trained for retrieving but still makes a good family pet, the Wetterhoun may be for you. After nearly going extinct during World War II, the Wetterhoun breed has regained some of its numbers but it remains a rare breed. Origin The name of this breed comes from the Dutch for “water dog” and the breed was developed more than 400 years ago in Friesland, a province of the Netherlands. This breed is also sometimes referred to as the Otterhound or the Dutch Spaniel, though it is technically not a type of spaniel. The Wetterhoun is thought to have descended from the now-extinct Old Water Dog and it may have been crossed with an indigenous Frisian breed. Throughout its history, the Wetterhoun has been used as a gun dog, a watch dog, and a water retriever. The breed nearly disappeared during the Second World War, but fanciers have slowly been rebuilding the breed. Pedigree

Help Fill Shelter Litter Boxes By Voting For A Celebrity Cat!

One Day Left! Vote for your favorite Celebrity Cat and help donate 50,000 pounds of litter to shelter cats in need. When nature calls it doesn’t matter if you’re a house cat, a shelter cat, or a celebrity feline, you’ve just got to answer! That’s why celebrated social media darlings Pompous Albert, Mr. Biscuits, Murdock the Marvellous and Captain Blue Chip have graciously agreed to help raise donations of cat litter for their favorite shelters in the United States. Related: What Is The Best Cat Litter For Your Kitty? The famed furry felines (and former shelter alumnae) have partnered with World’s Best Cat Litter in the quest to see 50,000 pounds of litter delivered to shelter cats via the brand’s charity GiveLitter. In its third year of driving adoption awareness and delivering on a pretty basic need, the charity’s campaign runs May 19 to 24 (that’s tomorrow!) and encourages animal lovers to pick a recipient shelter with just a click of their “mouse”. How does it work? Just visit the World’s Best Cat Litter website, check out the celebrity roster and their chosen shelter and cast your vote. It’s free and open to everyone. Related: Tailio Gives You The (Poop) Scoop On Your Cat’s Health The shelter “mas-cat” with the most votes gets 20,000 pounds of World’s Best Cat Litter. Runners up receive 15,000 pounds, 10,000 pounds and 5,000 pounds for placing 2nd, 3rd and 4th respectively. Lucky recipients of this year’s bounty of box filler include: Pompous Albert: donating litter to Cat House on the Kings in Parlier, CA.Mr. Biscuits: donating litter to The Grannie Project in Wayne, PA.Murdock the Marvelous: donating litter to Sean Casey Animal Rescue in Brooklyn, NY.Captain Blue Chip: donating litter to Helping Paws Pet Haven, Inc. in Huntington, IN. Since 2010, the GiveLitter charity has empowered cat lovers to donate 376,651pounds of free litter to deserving shelters across the country. With GiveLitter the brand partners with its customers to help get the word out about animal welfare issues, promote pet adoption, and donate free cat litter to shelters.Which cat did you vote for? It’s going to be a tight race, but we love this kind of contest… because everyone wins!

Scientists Say A Vacuum Is Your Best Weapon In Fight Against Brown Dog

As ticks become more resilient to pesticides, scientists are getting closer in their quest to alleviate these pests. For now, use your Hoover to keep them out of your home and off your dog. While it’s called the Brown Dog Tick, don’t let its name fool you; it affects more than just brown dogs and it can be darned hard to get rid of once its settled in to your home. Even the pesticide industry has been struggling to find a solution to this little critter that has proven resistant to the more common chemicals we apply between our pooch’s shoulder blades as well as home fumigation attempts by owners. Typically the tick is introduced to its new living quarters by a dog that has been cared for outside of his home or at a kennel. In the early stages they are few and far between, often being missed entirely by pet parents. But left unchecked over time they can literally be climbing the walls before the home owner realizes what’s happening. Related: Tick Guide: Common Types Of Ticks In North America In addition to the “gross” sensation of having bugs in your house, the blood-sucking tick can damage or irritate a dog’s skin and in some cases can cause a fever, anorexia or anemia – all symptoms that mean Rover needs to get in to see the vet ASAP! This particularly icky tick is also a homebody and while most tend to live and breed in the great outdoors, this little guy completes its lifecycle in the comfort of your home. With females laying up to 5,000 eggs in her lifetime, this adds up to big trouble if you don’t get a handle on it quickly. Related: Top 10 Spring Cleaning Checklist for Pet Parents Coming to the rescue of both owners and dogs is the University of Florida (a state where Brown Dog Ticks are rampant) and UF/IFAS associate professor of veterinary entomology, Phil Kaufman. His studies have revealed this tick is considered to be “cryptobiotic,” meaning it loves to hide in nooks and crannies where you’ll never find him. It also spends close to 95 percent of its time away from your pooch, so simply grooming Rover won’t solve the problem – it’s just the tip of the proverbial iceberg. Where to begin? Your good buddy needs to be treated with products such as fipronil (in sprays and spot-ons), amitraz (often in flea and tick collars), permethrin (sprays and shampoos) and deltamethrin (shampoos). Regular treatment will also minimize his chances of becoming infected by this and other species of ticks such as the American dog tick or the blacklegged tick. Your vet can advise you on the right tick control product for your pooch and as a good pet parent you should be examining him regularly and removing and disposing of any bugs or ticks you find. If you have other animals in the house, they should be check out regularly as well but be careful because not all treatments designed for dogs are also cool for cats. Some can be poisonous. And until a sure-fire battle plan is found, you can still use pesticides to control the ticks, but “the vacuum is your best friend,” says Faith Oi, a scientist at UF/IFAS Extension. So how do you tackle the infestation in your house? Think spring cleaning on a year-round basis. Yes, you need to de-clutter to eliminate potential hiding places and then you need to bring in the pros for pesticide applications and follow up to evaluate effectiveness. [Source: Science Daily]

What Is Feline Leukemia?

Are you worried about feline leukemia and how it can affect your cat? Here’s what pet parents need to know about the deadly virus. Feline leukemia virus, or FeLV, is a retrovirus that affects felines all over the world. This cat disease is only second to trauma as the leading cause of death amongst felines, and it will kill roughly 85 percent of infected cats within three years. Similar to FIV, Feline leukemia causes a suppression of the immune system, so it can predispose a cat to other infections that can be deadly. But there is some good news: roughly 70 percent of felines that encounter FeLV will be able to resist it or eliminate it on their own. Let’s talk more about this virus, as well as steps you can take to help prevent infections. Related: Top 5 Reasons To Raise An Indoor Cat Transmission of Feline Leukemia Cats who are infected with FeLV will shed the virus through their nasal secretions and saliva, as well as in their feces, urine, and blood. Mother cats can also pass the virus to their kittens before birth or through their milk. The virus can be transferred from one cat to another through bite wounds and grooming. Sharing litter boxes and food and water bowls can be another mode of transmission. Once outside a cat’s body, though, the virus will only last a few hours under normal conditions, so it doesn’t last long in the environment. Related: What Is FIV In Cats? Symptoms of Feline Leukemia According to Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, FeLV is “the most common cause of cancer in cats.” Infection can also negatively affect your pet’s body in myriad other ways, including creating an immune deficient state that makes your cat susceptible to a host of other infections. The virus can also lead to blood disorders. A cat may not exhibit any symptoms in the early stages, but within weeks, months, or years, the animal’s health could deteriorate progressively or he may have recurring illnesses in between periods of health. During the primary, or early, stage of infection, some felines may have an effective immune response. These cats may be able to eliminate FeLV from their blood, thereby halting its progression. The secondary, or later, stage causes persistent infection of tissue and bone marrow. This is the point of no return, when the majority of felines with the virus will be infected for the rest of their lives. Some of the symptoms associated with Feline Leukemia include: Yellow color within the cat’s mouth and in the whites of the eyesPale gums and mucus membranesInflammation of the mouth and gumsEnlarged lymph nodesWeight loss that is slow but progressive at first, with severe wasting laterLoss of appetiteSkin, upper respiratory, and bladder infectionsPoor coat conditionFeverProgressive lethargy and weaknessDiarrheaDifficulty breathingReproductive issues in females who haven’t been spayedBehavior changes, neurological disorders, seizuresEye conditions Treatments of Feline Leukemia Regular checkups (twice a year) and preventive health care may help FeLV-positive cats feel well and prevent secondary infections, but 85 percent of felines who are persistently infected with this virus will die from it, usually within three years of being diagnosed. Secondary infections are treated as they occur, but there’s no cure for FeLV. Prevention of Feline Leukemia It’s important to note that a cat may be infected even if he appears healthy. And if he’s infected, he may transfer the virus to another cat. Therefore, having your cat tested before introducing him to the rest of your feline family is one way to prevent transmission. You should keep your cats indoors as much as possible to avoid them encountering other felines who may be infected with FeLV. There is a FeLV vaccination, though you should discuss the pros and cons of vaccinating your cat with your vet, who knows your pet best and can steer you in the right direction. Bear in mind that not every cat who’s vaccinated will be protected against FeLV, so you should still take steps to prevent exposure.

Review: Love Thy Beast Canvas Pet Tote

Designed for on-the-go Pet Parents who don’t do prissy, the Love Thy Beast Canvas Pet Tote holds your dog, your essentials and your classic sense of style! You may remember me mentioning that Oscar, my 6-year-old Shih Tzu/Chihuahua mix, has the market covered on lazy. Yep, he makes sure to practice daily. He’ll reluctantly partake in a walk, but given the choice, Oscar will always pick the “Carry Me, Mom” option. I’m lucky that he’s taken to dog carriers with little cajoling – hell, if you put down a big enough purse, he’ll climb in and give you a look that says: “I’m ready to go when you are, hairless servant!” The problem I find with finding a dog carrier or bag is due to my pickiness… with style. In the land of little “purse” dogs, as they’re often referred to, bags abound with bling and frills. And if you know me, those two things (especially put together) are guaranteed Anti-Amy repellant. Are there no bags out there for me? Curse you Paris Hilton! You’ve ruined it for us all! (*Shakes fist in direction of Los Angeles.) Related: Top 10 Dog Carriers For Fashionable Trekkers But what’s this? Is there hope for the doggy totting gal in search of sophisticated style that defies all frou-frou logic? My faith in canine couture is revived – I have seen the light, which is, in this case, the Canvas Pet Tote by Love Thy Beast. The first thing I noticed about the Canvas Pet Tote was its totally lack of small dog cliché accessories. Not a bejewel or frill to be seen. Instead, this tote relies on simple lines, thick, durable material and classic color combinations to convey a modern yet timeless fashion statement. It fits right into the urban landscape, thanks to its minimalist design approach that seamlessly combines oversize chic and multifunction purpose. In other words: this is a dog carrier that I would shamelessly flaunt while carrying Oscar to work, running errands or window shopping. Bag Basics

Good Dog! The Best Ways To Reward Your Dog

How do you tell your dog he’s done a good job… especially if you want him to do it again? Here are the best ways you can reward your dog Training is one of the most important aspects of dog ownership – if you do not properly train your dog you will be faced with any number of problems including unwanted behaviors, destruction of property, and more. Dog training is not necessarily difficult, but there is a right way and a wrong way to go about it. The most effective method of dog training involves the use of positive reinforcement, or rewards for good behavior. Here are our best ways for rewarding your dog in a way that will encourage him to repeat desired behaviors. Using Food Rewards As you have probably already learned, your dog will do just about anything for a treat. All you have to do is open the treat bag and your dog will come running. Using food rewards is the quickest way to teach your dog new tricks but you need to be careful about making your dog dependent on those food rewards. The last thing you want is to train your dog such that he only performs the desired behavior if he receives a treat after – your dog should follow your commands whether he receives a reward or not. To make this happen you need to slowly phase out the use of food rewards after your dog catches on to the new trick you are teaching him. As an alternative to food rewards, then, you have several other options to try out. Related: How To Use Treats For Positive Reinforcement Dog Training Outdoor/Play Time If your dog is like most others, he gets excited when you pick up the leash. Once you phase out food rewards during your training sessions, you can use extended outdoor play time as an alternative reward. If you usually take your dog for a quick walk around the block, add an extra lap or stop for a game of fetch in the front yard. This reward is particularly effective when used in conjunction with potty training. When you are teaching your dog to do his business outdoors, keep him on a leash and lead him to the area where you want him to do his business. When he does, praise him and let him off the leash for a little outdoor play time. If your dog doesn’t go, try again later. By using this technique your dog will learn that doing his business in the right area earns him the reward of outdoor play time and you won’t have to use any food rewards. Related: Why Your Dog Wishes You Would Stop Talking And Start Petting Toys and Games Though some dogs simply don’t have much interest in toys, if your dog does then it may be a good alternative to using food rewards during training. To make the best use of this method, reserve a few special toys for use only during training sessions. When training your dog you can present the toy in the same way you would a treat and then reward the dog with a minute of play time when he responds correctly. Toys that squeak or bounce may hold a special appeal for your dog, ensuring that you have his attention during training and that he actually wants the reward you are offering. Other rewards you might give your dog during training include extra attention in the form of a belly rub or some snuggle time on the couch. As well, always follow up a positive action with verbal praise. Some dogs particularly enjoy playtime with other dogs or a visit from a friend. The key to phasing out food rewards is to be creative with the use of alternative rewards to maintain your dog’s interest so he continues to perform well. What rewards does your dog respond to? Do you have a go-to treat that works every time? Share what works for you in the comments below so we can try them!

4 Cool Tips On How To Avoid Hot Dogs This Summer

Now that the warm weather is upon us, we want to spend all our time outdoors… with our dogs! We’ve got a few tips on how to beat the heat when your pooch starts panting. With summer so tantalizingly close, warmer weather upon us and our gardens coming into full bloom, who can blame us for wanting to spend as much time as possible in the great outdoors. The same goes for our pets and my slider door is sure getting a work-out as my gang want in, then out, then maybe in… and I stand waiting at the door while they think about it. Yes, I am a slave to my pets and think there should be a 12-step program for it. But I digress. Not all pets have a door-person standing at the ready and for dogs in particular, outdoor living can be heaven or hell depending on the temperature. Related: Frozen Mixed Summer Berry Dog Treat Recipe While we all know that we keep our bodies cool by sweating and that dogs don’t sweat, they pant, did you realize that when the heat is extreme, panting just isn’t enough. That’s where you as a responsible pet parent must step in to make sure Rover is not only comfortable, but safe. Keep it Cool For dogs that spend a great deal of time outdoors, lots of fresh, cool water is the #1 priority. Whether tethered in one area or roaming the yard, dehydration can be a killer on a hot day regardless of how active your pooch is or isn’t. While there are a number of products on the market that range from dog “fountains” to self-watering devices that attach to your outdoor faucet, the key is that you provide a continual source of fresh, cool water. If you’re old-school, make sure the bowl is large, can’t be tipped and emptied (opt for a bowl with a wide-base) is located in a shady area, and is replenished frequently. Related: Hot Tips on Sun Protection For Dogs Throwing Shade Equally important to helping your pet beat the heat is adequate shade. We’ve all watched our pets follow a sun spot in the house and flop down to enjoy its warmth. Your backyard is an entirely different story and your boy needs someplace cool and shady where he can chill out. Too much sun leads to not only heat exhaustion but sun burn (yes!) and if he free-ranges periodically throughout the day, a shade tree or access to under a deck can be just the ticket. But if he’s outdoors for longer periods or tethered, he needs some serious solutions. Consider an insulated dog house that is well ventilated, a canopy set up in the shade or even a doggie door into your house so he can access the A/C too! Everyone in the Pool! Once you’ve met the first two basics, you can look for some fun and creative ways to help your little guy stay cool. Think swimming pool! No, not the pricey in-ground version but a molded plastic kiddie pool – it’s the perfect size (and price) for dogs. Keep it filled with cool water in a shady part of the yard (remember, you want a swimming pool, not a hot tub) and change the water regularly to avoid mosquitos. Most dogs love to splash or lounge in the water to cool off but if your pooch is a really little guy (or a Bulldog), make sure you supervise him or keep the water level to just a couple of inches. Sprinklers can also provide some relief on a hot day, but on those lazy, hazy days of summer a plastic pool full of cool water is probably more enticing. Cool Beds You will also probably notice Rover is also foregoing his cozy dog bed to flop down on a patch of grass, dirt or sometimes a freshly dug hole… in the perennials. Truth is, his bed is probably too warm in the heat and he’s looking for a spot that can keep him cool. While there are some options out there that include cooling dog beds made of gel-like materials, a simpler option he may enjoy just as much is a sandbox filled with wet sand where he can indulge his natural instinct to dig and burrow. Whether you opt for the elaborate safeguards or choose the basic necessities to keep your best friend comfortable this summer the only guarantee of his safety is for you to keep a close eye on him. And remember that heat stroke doesn’t correct itself with a little extra water and shade. Get him to a vet if he begins to show any signs of distress from the rising temperatures. What do you do to keep your dog cool in the summer? Share your tips with our pet parent community in the comment section below.

What is the Proper Aspirin Dosage for Dogs?

Aspirin has been around for ages, and it is one of the essential medicines today. It is efficient for a variety of aches and ailments, and millions around the world use it on a daily level. In fact, you probably already have this popular headache medication in your medicine cabinet. But if it works for you, will it work the same for your pet? When your doggo is hurting, you might reach for aspirin in an emergency. However, you should first consider whether this medicine is safe to give to your dog, and if it is, what is the proper aspirin dosage for dogs?When you have a headache, you probably reach into your medicine cabinet for a bottle of aspirin. Over-the-counter pain relievers like this are inexpensive to purchase, easy to find, and they work well for general pain relief. That makes them very popular around the globe. When your dog is in pain, however, the solution may not be quite so easy as with us humans. So don’t rush into things, and refrain from barging into the medicine cabinet. Keep reading to learn more about whether aspirin is safe for dogs and, if so, what the proper dosage is.Related: Can I Give My Dog Aleve?Is It Safe to Give Your Dog Aspirin? Aspirin was discovered sometime in the mid 1800s, and was an instant hit in the medicinal world. It belongs to a class of medications known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs. These medications are available over-the-counter in various forms such as controlled release tablets and immediate release tablets. Dosages vary as well, and there are various formulations to treat specific forms of pain. One of the primary uses for aspirin, however, is to treat pain and inflammation related to various forms of arthritis. Surely you’ve used it on occasion, when having a stubborn headache or a toothache. So, when your pupper is aching, it would seem logical to reach for aspirin as a quick solution. But is it so?You’d feel good to know that veterinarians sometimes prescribe aspirin to dogs suffering from musculoskeletal inflammation or osteoarthritis. Aspirin works by inhibiting an enzyme called cyclooxygenase which produces inflammatory prostaglandins. Unfortunately, in addition to inhibiting this enzyme, aspirin also acts as an anti-coagulant which prevents the blood from clotting. Though NSAIDs like aspirin have fewer side effects than steroidal medications, there are definitely some risks included. If you do give your dog aspirin, do so only with your veterinarian’s guidance and follow his dosing instructions carefully. Needless to say, you should never take such matters into your own hands and pretend to be a veterinarian. Before any medication is administered to a dog, there are numerous things that need to be taken into account – by professionals. The breed, the size, the medical issue, the proper dosage, and so on. So, the first thing you should always do is seek the help of a veterinarian. They’ll tell you what needs to be done.  Related: Meloxicam for Dogs: Is It Safe?What’s the Proper Dosage of aspirin for Dogs? While aspirin is not approved by the FDA for use in dogs, some veterinarians do prescribe it. The recommended dosage is somewhere between 10mg and 40mg per kilogram, depending on your dog’s condition. You should also know that there are different kinds of aspirin out there and not all of them are safe for dogs. Enteric-coated tablets, for example, are designed to protect the lining of the intestines from irritation, but this coating can prevent your dog’s body from breaking down and absorbing the tablet. As you can see, there are plenty of risks involved, and those risks are known by veterinarians. Don’t try to do this on your own. Before giving your dog aspirin, make sure you tell your veterinarian about any other medications he may be taking. Aspirin can interact poorly with digoxin, certain antibiotics, anti-coagulants, corticosteroids, and various other drugs so it pays to be cautious. Even if you don’t think it is significant, tell your veterinarian everything so he has enough information to determine the level of risk that comes with giving your dog aspirin. Only after all of these facts have been established, can the treatment proceed. What Are the Potential Side Effects? While it may technically be safe to give your dog aspirin, there are safer options – drugs that have been approved by the FDA for treating pain in dogs. And these are usually the first choices of all vets. Still, if you do give your dog aspirin, be on the lookout for side effects because they can happen even if you administer the proper dosage. Potential side effects of taking aspirin may include the following:VomitingDiarrheaUlcersBlack, tarry stoolLoss of appetiteHemorrhageSeizuresComaDeathEven if you use the right dosage, you should still monitor your dog closely after giving him aspirin to make sure he doesn’t have a negative reaction. After all, no two dogs are exactly the same, and some minor (or major) side effects might appear even with all the proper steps taken care of. If you notice any of the symptoms above, or if your dog just starts acting differently, take him to the vet immediately for treatment.What Does Aspirin Poisoning In Dogs Look Like?Unfortunately, dogs can suffer from aspirin poisoning. It may happen if dogs get into aspirin or other salicylate-containing products in your house and take in too large a dose. It may be you giving too large a dose. It could come from a single incident or repeated dosing for something like osteoarthritis. Either way you take it, the options and scenarios are numerous, and once the deed happens, you should know the symptoms to look for and how to prevent the worst from happening. As we’ve said, if your dog has other medical conditions like clotting disorders, liver or kidney disease, that may put them at greater risk of aspirin poisoning. Particularly if your dog is already taking steroids or other NSAIDS.Because aspirin and other NSAIDs block some of the chemical processes in your dog’s body that can cause inflammation, they can also block important processes that are key to your dog’s kidney, liver and clotting functions too. This is how poisoning occurs.Initially, you may not see any signs or symptoms of aspirin poisoning. The biggest issue you’re likely to see is gastro problems and ulceration (which will cause bleeding). Your dog may have abdominal pain, vomit, have diarrhea or really dark stools. They may not have an appetite and their gums may turn pale. They may be depressed or lethargic and even have what looks like seizures or coma. If your dog has accidentally taken any aspirin/salcylates, you have to contact your vet and/or the Pet Poison Helpline asap. The number is 1-800-213-6680. Even if you are using the proper dosage of aspirin for dogs, you still want to watch–everybody metabolizes differently.Natural Ways to Help Ease Discomfort in Your DogWhen our dogs are showing signs of pain or discomfort, we naturally want to find a solution to make them feel better. In some situations, this may be accomplished through the use of pain medications as prescribed or recommended by your veterinarian. However, there are other ways that you can help to make your dog as comfortable as possible. These methods are a great choice if you are waiting for the pain killers to take effect or for situations where pain killers may not be recommended.A common solution used for our own aching joints, hot and cold therapy can help to provide temporary relief of aches and pains. Try applying an ice pack or a heating pad to the area of your dog’s body that is causing discomfort. Be careful not to apply extreme heat or cold directly to their skin as this can cause additional problems. Instead, you can wrap the ice pack or heating pad in a towel to provide a layer of protection. If an ice pack is not an option, you can reach into the freezer for anything handy – a bag of frozen vegetables is a good example. If your dog’s aches and pains are caused by a condition like arthritis, you may be able to manage their ongoing pain levels using a joint supplement. Containing beneficial ingredients like glucosamine, repairing the cartilage in your dog’s joints to strengthen them and prevent pain. This isn’t a miracle solution that will eliminate any problems that they are facing, but it can help significantly.There are some food and ingredients that have been credited with having anti-inflammatory properties. Including these items in your dog’s regular diet can help to regulate and manage any ongoing pain. Some popular examples are turmeric and fish oil.Advise with your vet about such foods. Alternative therapies aren’t just for humans! Consider reaching out to a holistic veterinarian or alternative practitioner of acupuncture or massage therapy to discuss the treatment options for your dog. Not only will these treatments help to relieve pain by encouraging blood flow and circulation, but they can also help to reduce your dog’s stress levels.Provide your dog with a comfortable orthopedic dog bed to relax and sleep on. Not only will this help immediately by allowing them to rest comfortably, but the bed can also help on a more long-term front. Orthopedic beds are designed to avoid pressure points. If your dog often sleeps on the hard floor or ground, switching to an orthopedic bed can help to prevent triggering this pain moving forward.Limit activities like jumping up on furniture and climbing stairs that can trigger additional pain. If necessary, use special measures to prevent them from jumping up. Sometimes, dogs retain their enthusiasm even when their body can’t follow. You can also use safety gates to block off stairways and, where possible, provide a ramp for easier low-impact access.While none of the options here is a substitute for proper veterinary care, they can be used in conjunction with your dog’s medical care to provide comfort and relief. However, if you do notice that your dog is showing signs of pain, it is recommended that you start by contacting your veterinarian to ensure that there isn’t an underlying cause that needs to be addressed.In the end, it goes a long way to repeat once more that no pet owner should take such things into their own hands – no matter their experience and confidence, a veterinarian is a medical professional and only they can prescribe proper treatment. This is not only related to dogs but all other pets as well. If you notice any aches or symptoms, get in touch with a veterinarian as soon as possible. Giving pets medicines of your own choosing can only cause more trouble than good. Of course, taking good care of your pet is imperative in every way – establish a good routine of health care, and ailments should be less likely to happen in the first place.

Top 10 Best Virtual Vets: Veterinary Telemedicine For Your Pets

While a global pandemic may have made the need for virtual vet visits much greater, online health care for pets has been a growing industry for a while. With convenient times, options and pricing, telemedicine for pets makes a lot of sense. We’ve scoped out the best veterinary telemedicine services around. What Is Veterinary Telemedicine? Veterinary Telemedicine is very similar to human telemedicine/telehealth appointments in a lot of respects. Obviously, if your pet is in need of in-person veterinary care for whatever reason, you’ll want to contact your veterinarian and schedule that appointment. But sometimes, the anxiety of the vet can be overwhelming for a pet, particularly if it’s essentially something that can be talked about or is a fairly easy-to-identify issue. Veterinary telemedicine allows you to speak to either a veterinary technician or a licensed veterinarian over video, voice or text and that peace of mind can be priceless. Sometimes, what you think may be a major issue is minor and a quick talk with a licensed professional (without having to go into the office with your pet) can make a huge difference for you both. Do Veterinarians Actually Diagnose And Prescribe Online? The answer to that is “Yes, they do, ” and, “No, they don’t.” True telemedicine will be able to offer (some) diagnosis and prescription services, but typically requires a vet client-patient relationship (VCPR) according to the American Veterinary Medical Association. What that means is that a vet must have seen your pet in person first, typically within a year, in order to do phone/video diagnosis or prescribing of medicine. More and more online practices are encouraging their patients to participate–having them come in for that initial meet-and-greet and look over so that should emergency pop up, they’re able to schedule a telemedicine appointment with you at your convenience. Telehealth services for your pet also include what is typically called Teletriage and generally speaking, that’s what most pet parents are lookng for when they feel like their dog’s poo looks a little off or their kitty seems to be eating less and hiding more than usual. Pet parents want to be able to get in touch with a professional with ease and when they need to. That’s where Teletriage comes in handy. Most of the time, pet parents really just need triage, general advice, guidance and support from their veterinarian and vet techs, and that’s just what most veterinary telemedicine services will offer exactly when they need it. Experience speaking here, but we find that’s often at 1:00 am after Fifi has lost her cookies twice that night and your vet’s office is obviously closed. Why Choose Veterinary Telemedicine? In a nutshell? Veterinary telemedicine is a great option for the same reasons that many telehealth for human appointments are. They are typically offered on super-convenient schedules for you, which makes them easily accessible for most. They’re an affordable way for your pet to ‘see’ a vet at almost anytime of the day or night, and can often preempt an otherwise super expensive trip to the local emergency animal hospital just to find out a teaspoon of salt may have been all your dog needed to barf up that sinus infection antibiotic of yours they scarfed off the counter. True story, and for the record, our vet said that the medicine wouldn’t hurt our dog, but it sure was nice to just be able to do a quick telehealth chat with our vet to find that out. And most of all, though virtual vet vists can obviously replace the need to see the vet in-person sometimes, the peace of mind you can get about your pet’s well-being from the comfort of your own (and their) home is priceless. It can mean the difference between that expensive emergency hospital run or just waiting until the morning when your vet is in the office and can see your pet in-person (if needed) and is often much less stress on your pet too. The Best Veterinary Telemedicine Services 1. Vetster

Northern Red-Bellied Turtle

Northern Red-Bellied Turtle General Info The Northern Red-Bellied Turtle is also referred to as the Northern Red-Bellied Cooter. There are three distinct breeds of red-bellied turtles, and they are isolated from one another geographically. However, they all have broad red stripes on their carapace, along with a varied red and black pattern on their plastron. Northern Red-Bellied Turtles are also referred to as Northern Red-Bellied Cooters. Native Habitat These turtles are usually found in freshwater bodies of water, such as ponds, creeks, streams, lakes, and rivers that also provide basking areas and a soft substrate that is used for hibernating. However, these turtles can also survive in brackish water. The Northern Red-Bellied Turtle prefers permanent ponds with a lot of vegetation. It is found in states ranging from New Jersey to North Carolina, although it has also been found in Massachusetts. Overall Description

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