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by By My Happy Pets
on Aug 15 2022
Whether you are getting a new puppy from a breeder or rescuing a cat from a local animal shelter, you are about to change this pet's life – and yours. Making a smooth introduction will be helpful for your entire family, including your newest four-legged member. Here are some tips from Vetoquinol veterinarians to introduce a new pet to your homePlan Ahead:
House Setup: Designate an area in your house just for them, such as a crate or cozy nook with a bed, toys and water. Finish setting up your house before bringing your new pup home!
Prep the Family: Talk to your children about how to approach the dog or cat without scaring him or her. If your have a puppy or kitten, be sure to teach your kids how to lift and play with their new pet safely.
Suggestion: read children's book about new pets and their care ahead of your new pet's arrival.
Introducing your new pet to other pets:Decompress: Allow your pet to decompress and get used to your home and their new surroundings, before introducing them to other pets.
Sniff it Out: When making introductions, it's important to take time to let your pet get used to you and your smells. Put a few pieces of dirty laundry in your animal's crate/bed – this allows your pet to get used to the smells in your home. Go slowly until your pet is comfortable with you.
New Pet Makes 2 or 3: When you're ready to introduce your pets, pay attention to their body language. Watch carefully for body postures that indicate a defensive or wary response, including hair standing up, teeth baring, growling, a stiff-legged gait or a prolonged stare. If you see such postures, immediately and calmly interrupt the interaction by separating your pets and interesting them in something else. Once both pets appearrelaxed and comfortable, you can reintroduce them.
Next Steps:
Create Structure: Pets are creatures of routine - especially dogs. Animals often crave rules, repetitive habits and boundaries. Make sure everyone in the family helps create this structure for consistency. Keep to a walk schedule, sleep schedule and feeding schedule.
Proper Training: Proper training is KEY. There are many books and online videos that you can read ahead of your pet's arrival. If you don’t feel ready to do all the training yourself, ask your vet practice about local pet trainers - many offer group, individual or at-home training classes. Even if you are adopting an older dog, some training may still need to be done or refreshed.
Be Patient: Sometimes housebroken pets will have accidents or cry at night. This will go away with positive reinforcement and patience.
Keep Calm: Your home can be a scary place for your new pet! Over time, your dog or cat should be more comfortable around you and your family. Make sure to monitor your pet’s behavior for signs of anxiety. Zylkene®, a non-drug behavioral supplement, can be started a few days before introducing him to new people to help pets cope in new surroundings. Ask for Zylkene by name at your local veterinary clinic or online at Chewy.com or Healthy Pets.
Vet your Vet: If you don’t have other pets, it will mean you will be looking into a veterinarian for the first time. Many local areas have Facebook groups where you can ask neighbors for local recommendations, or speak to family and friends about their veterinarian practices. Some people choose certain vets because they specialize in certain areas and breeds, while others may offer boarding services that will come in handy. Call to set up your pet’s initial examination and/or additional vaccination needs
If your pet's behavior changes in any way, call your veterinarian. They can rule out any underlying medical issues as well as make additional recommendations for training.
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Tips for Helping Your Pet Cope During Fireworks Season
by By My Happy Pets
on Aug 15 2022
Fireworks can make celebrations exciting for us, but they’re not always fun for our pets. In a recent survey*, 44% of pet owners reported that their pets are scared of fireworks. Fortunately, there are things we can do to help keep them calmer and safer. It’s up to you as their owner to help pets cope and make sure they stay calm when the fireworks go off. Here are a few tips to consider if your pet experiences anxiety during fireworks season:
Start planning in advance! A few weeks before, talk to your veterinarian or behaviorist about any changes you can make in the short term to help your pet. Additionally, build a “den” for your pet so they have their own safe place with which they have positive associations. This gives them somewhere to hide when they are uneasy or worried. Make sure the den is in a place where they usually like to hide and that they have enough space to stretch out and stand up/turn around.
Consider starting them on a calming supplement, such as Zylkene, in advance to try and help them cope. There are several options available for pets who become especially anxious during fireworks. Talk to your veterinarian about the best options depending on their reactions to the noise.
Update their identification! Some pets try to run away when fireworks go off near them. Ensure that your pet’s ID tag is up to date and, if possible, get them micro-chipped. This will ensure you are reunited with your pet sooner if they do go missing.
Walk your dog when it’s still light outside. Try to ensure your dog does not need to go outside when fireworks are going off. Prep them in advance for an earlier nighttime routine and, when finished, keep them inside with the windows and doors securely closed. This will reduce the change that they will run off. Don’t take a dog to a fireworks display if they experience anxiety from the noise.
Provide distractions. Consider turning on the TV or radio during the fireworks and providing your pet with a new favorite toy. This will help drown out some of the noise and keep your pet distracted when they would otherwise be focused on what’s happening outside. Treat training is also an option and can be practiced in advance of fireworks season. If they are focused enough, you can take them to their “safe” room, with background music, and perform basic commands while rewarding the completion of the task with treats. If they are too concerned with the noises outside to respond to basic commands for treats, you might be able to distract them short term by simply providing small pieces of their most favorite treats in rapid succession to further distract them from the noise.
Watch for subtle signs of noise phobias early in your pet’s life. A behavioral issue such as sensitivity to noise can be easier to control if caught early. If you are able to pick up on signs that your pet may have a problem with fireworks or other loud noises in the first year or two of your pet’s life, then you should consult with your veterinarian and begin taking steps to minimize the progression of the signs over time. For older pets who develop noise sensitivity with age, or an adopted pet, keep an eye out for signs and try to deal with them sooner rather than later by working with your veterinarian.
Taking a few simple steps to make fireworks season easier on your pet can make a world of difference. If you need additional tips on how to help your pet make it through a trying time, reach out to your local veterinarian.*PDSA, Online Survey 2013
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Teaching Your Dog to Stay Home Alone
by By My Happy Pets
on Aug 15 2022
Dogs naturally like being a part of a pack and being alone can be hard for them. Although you love your dog, life is busy — work, soccer games, gym time and errands- unfortunately this means we sometimes have to leave our dogs home alone.It is necessary to teach them how to stay home alone. This can help your pet by decreasing barking and yapping. The key is to avoid boredom and fear of abandonment. Here are some tips:
Puppy? Start training them early on to stay on their own. Of course, start gradually and do not leave them for an entire day right away. The key is for them to feel safe in the environment where they are being left.
Adopt an adult dog? It is also best to start training gradually to stay on their own, even if your pet was used to it in their previous environment. You should train even more gradually if you’re adopting a dog from a kennel who can be more sensitive. Their sole bond with humans has been temporary or traumatic, so they’re more sensitive than other dogs when it comes to breaking temporary bonds.
Boredom often makes for nervous dogs, which can cause problems. Some signs of boredom are chewing, digging, yapping and barking, but also jumping near the gate where they come in and out. Don’t punish such behavior but instead avoid boredom. For example, hide some dry treats or use toys you can fill with treats to keep your dog busy.
If your dog has free rein of the house or yard, make sure everything is put away and there are no hazards.
Let your dog run around a bit before you leave. Tired dogs are less likely to bark or chew.
Another solution is to feed him before you leave. Dogs with full stomachs naturally tend to nap.
Don’t make a fuss when you leave or come home. Avoid painful goodbyes and ecstatic reunions. Dogs are already thrilled with a simple pat or greeting.
If you think your dog has real abandonment issues, consult a behavior specialist or talk to your veterinarian.You can support your dog’s training with Zylkene®. This behavior supplement relaxes your pet without causing drowsiness. It can help your pet be calmer, easier to train, and adapt smoothly.
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Should I Board My Cat or Hire a Cat Sitter?
by By My Happy Pets
on Aug 15 2022
Now that you’ve planned your next great adventure, don’t forget to make arrangements for your cat! It’s not recommended to leave your cat home alone and unattended for the duration of your trip. This is stressful for your kitty and can be dangerous, especially if your cat has a medical emergency.If it’s a monumental battle to get your cat into a carrier, it’s time to find a cat sitter. Benefits of hiring a cat sitter:
Your cat stays in their own home and avoids the stress of going to the veterinarian’s office or boarding facility
Best for cats that love their routine
Minimum 2x day interaction with the cat sitter
Enrichment – play time with the sitter
Cat sitter can care for more than one cat
Frequent visits to the home ensure that your cat is safe and healthy
Has your cat been well socialized? If so, your cat may benefit from a boarding facility with cat condos.Benefits of boarding your cat:
In some facilities, your cat stays in a kitty condo with new hiding places
Enrichment – If available, consider add-ons for play time with the kennel staff
Some boarding only facilities have a veterinarian on staff for emergencies
Many facilities use camera systems that allow you to check up on your cat remotely
Not sure which option is best for your cat? Look into both boarding and cat sitters.Related Topics:How to Find the Right Cat SitterBest Practices for Boarding Your Cat
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Introducing Your Pet to Your New Baby
by By My Happy Pets
on Aug 15 2022
A new baby is an exciting time and a big change for the entire family, including your pet. They will not only face a number of new smells and sounds but also, get less of your time and attention. It may be difficult for them especially if they’ve been the “only child” for a while. With proper training, supervision, and adjustments, you, your new baby, and your pet should be able to live together safely and happily as one big family.Once the baby arrives the key is for your pet to associate being around the baby as a positive experience. Let him or her sit next to you while holding the baby, take the dog with you when you walk the baby, etc. Always supervise any interaction.Life can no doubt get hectic while caring for your new baby but try to maintain regular routines as much as you can in order for your pet to adjust. Continue to spend time with your pet each day. That way, your fur-baby won’t see the new baby as a "rival" getting all the love and attention.You can help your cat or dog cope with this change by giving them Zylkene®. It can relax your pet without causing drowsiness, making it easier to adjust.
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by By My Happy Pets
on Aug 15 2022
The holidays can be a stressful time, and not just for humans. You’ve got a lot of planning, cooking, cleaning and shopping to do – and your pets pick up on the changes in behavior around the house. But with a little awareness of what can stress out your pet, and what signs of stress to look for, you can help make the holidays a happier time for your whole family.The most common disruptions during the holiday season are sensory. The holidays introduce a lot of new noises – holiday music, doorbells ringing more frequently, pots and pans clanging, phones ringing, new noisy toys, and more voices making more noise. Holiday scents can contribute to this, with anything from seasonal air fresheners to fireplaces to Christmas trees changing the smell of the house.Another common disruption are strangers – your guests – that your dog hasn’t met before. Party guests, long-term house guests, and visiting family can be stressful for your dog depending on their socialization levels. Guests and special occasions can also lead to rule changes that can be confusing for dogs who are used to begging at the table or sitting on the couch. And, of course, with everything going on, dogs are likely to get less attention and exercise – which leaves them energetic and anxious.If you suspect the holidays are stressing out your pets, check out the Stress Ladder and see if the listed behaviors look familiar. The stress ladder is a scale that measures signs of behavioral issues and can help you and your veterinarian determine how much stress your pet is experiencing.The easiest way to help your pet manage stress during the holidays is to set up a pet-friendly space in your home that they can retreat to. Make the space comfortable and quiet, and make sure guests know to leave your pets alone if they’re staying there. If you can’t dedicate a space for your pets, make a point to take them somewhere quiet for a little bit to pet them, soothe them, and talk to them.Nutraceuticals may also help. Zylkene® can help a pet deal with new people, new situations, and new life challenges – just like the kinds the holidays bring. Nutraceuticals like Zylkene® help dogs and cats relax and accept challenging situations without altering behavior or making them drowsy. As always, consult your veterinarian for medical advice if you are concerned about your pet’s behavior.
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How to Find the Right Cat Sitter
by By My Happy Pets
on Aug 15 2022
Cat sitters are a great alternative to boarding your cat. For anxious and independent cats, a cat sitter helps maintain your cat’s routine and provides you with peace of mind.What to Expect
There are two types of cat sitters: those that stay at your house for the duration of your trip, and those that come check on your cat periodically.
Cats shouldn’t be left alone for more than 12 hours at a time. Cat sitters should be expected to come by at least twice a day. If your cat has a specific feeding or medication schedule, the cat sitter may need to check in more frequently.
Sitters are responsible for feeding your cat, changing their water and cleaning out the litter box. If your cat is social, the sitter will also play with your cat.
Picking a Sitter
Ask your sitter about their experience with cat sitting and get references from other cat owners. A good cat sitter will be knowledgeable, trustworthy and observant.
Discuss your expectations with the sitter and find out what services they provide.
Once you pick out the right sitter, put together a list of instructions. Be sure to include feeding times, info about any medications and contact information for your veterinarian. Don’t forget to tell the sitter about your cat’s favorite toys and games!
Make sure you call your veterinarian and let them know your cat sitter is responsible for your cat while you’re out of town. This ensures that your cat will get any necessary treatment if there is a medical emergency when you’re away.
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by By My Happy Pets
on Aug 15 2022
The turkey is in the oven, the halls are decked and the gifts are wrapped, but do you know where the cat is? With all the excitement of the holidays, sometimes we can lose track of our four-legged family members, only to find the cats chewing on the décor or the dog eating through the kitchen garbage after a family feast. Follow the holiday pet safety tips from our Veterinarians below all season long.Dos and Don'ts of Décor:
Make sure to keep decorations and ornaments up and out of reach of curious pets.
Instead of glass ornaments, look for non-breakable options (such as metal or plastic), since pieces of broken glass ornaments can be easily swallowed or stepped on.
Keep an eye out for any loose confetti or tinsel that might be in reach of pets, especially cats. These little eye-catching pieces of plastic can lead to blockage in the digestive track, if swallowed.
Poinsettias aren't deadly to pets, but if eaten they can cause pets to vomit and have digestive upset, so keep them away from animals.
Candles can set the celebratory mood and they can become a fire hazard with an unsupervised pet moving around. A bump of a table or the pulling of a tablecloth can lead to a candle tipping over. Don't leave any lit candles unsupervised and keep them in sturdy holders.
If you put up a Christmas tree, either real or artificial, make sure it's properly secured. Curious cats may like to climb on it and larger dogs can easily knock them over.
Glowing lights or moving décor are sometimes too good to pass up for some pets. Make sure to unplug or turn off any decorations to prevent harm and possible fire hazards when you leave the house or go to bed at night.
Dogs and cats can get be startled by holiday noise makers and poppers. If you have noisemakers at your celebration, set your pet up with their own quite space, away from the party.
Food Faux Pas:
While humans relish in the chocolate goodies of the season, this sweet treat is dangerous to pets. Keep chocolate candy sealed and out of reach, and if you think your pet may have ingested chocolate, call your veterinarian.
A holiday turkey can be a major stomach concern to our four-legged friends. The skin on the turkey is soaked in oils, seasonings, and fats, which may lead to stomach pain and even pancreatitis. Also be sure to keep your kitchen garbage out of reach or covered, since the turkey bones can be a particularly dangerous choking and digestive hazard if pets get their paws on them.
Advise your dinner and party guests to not feed your dog any scraps to avoid digestive upset. If your dog tends to beg near the table at mealtime, put your dog in a quiet room during the feast to avoid temptation.
Hosting Hazards:
Think being around lots of people makes you stressed? Just imagine how your pet feels! Make sure to keep an eye on your pets behavior for any signs of anxiety. Zylkene, a behavioral supplement, can be started a few days before the holidays to help pets cope once the festivities (and all the hustle and bustle that comes with it!) arrive. Ask for Zylkene by name at your local veterinary clinic or online at Chewy.com or Healthy Pets.
During family gatherings or large parties, keep a cozy space secluded so your pet has a place to go and relax during all the excitement at a holiday party.
If you are concerned with your dog or cat getting loose as your front door opens and closes during holiday gatherings, consider keeping your pet in a secure place in your home, with toys and fresh water. Playing calming music in this room may help to soothe them or distract them from the noises in the rest of the house.
Travel Safely:
Loading up the car to head to Grandma's house for the holidays? Buckle up you and your pets. Loose pets in a car can be a danger, both as a driving distraction and as a projectile (if there were to be an accident). Secure pets as you would the rest of your family – there are special harnesses and car crates for pets – to keep everyone safe.
Keep a leash handy in the car, not packed away. In the event your car breaks down in transit, you may need to exit your vehicle quickly with your family and pet. Even in a minor fender bender, pets can escape when a frazzled owner steps out of the car to assess the damage.
If you are flying with your pet, try to limit how long your flight time is, avoiding connecting flights to prevent any delays and risk of the airline misplacing your very important cargo.
Make sure to pack food, plus water and bowls.
Bring along your dog's favorite toys so your dog has something from home to keep him occupied when visiting a new house.
Please note: If your pet's health status or behavior changes suddenly in any way, call your veterinarian. He or she can help rule out any underlying medical issues as well as make additional recommendations, beyond these general holiday pet safety tips.
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Helping Your Pets Cope with Spooky Season
by By My Happy Pets
on Aug 15 2022
The holiday season means guests, decorations, parties – and a whole lot of treats your dog probably shouldn’t get into. That’s especially true during Halloween, when heaps of candy come into your home and stick around for weeks afterward. Here are some common problems pets run into this time of year, and ways you can spot them.The number one danger for dogs during Halloween is chocolate. Dogs have difficulty processing theobromine in chocolate, which means toxic buildups can happen more rapidly. Darker chocolates (cocoa, cooking chocolate, and dark chocolate) contain the highest levels of theobromine, while white chocolate and milk chocolate contain the lowest. If you notice your dog vomiting, trembling and experiencing loose stools and you think they may have eaten chocolate, call your vet and take them in – don’t wait.Garbage gut, or “dietary indiscretion,” is when dogs ingest something their body can’t tolerate – typically either from being fed table scraps or getting into the garbage. During the Fall, you can add “decorations that look like food” to the list. Most cases of dietary indiscretion are minor and resolve themselves in 1-3 days. If you notice your dog experiencing loose stools, vomiting, loss of appetite, or lethargy for longer than a day, consult with your veterinarian.Finally, nervousness is common for dogs during the holidays – kicking off with Halloween’s cavalcade of trick-or-treaters. If your dog appears anxious, confused or scared, keep them away from the front door so they don’t see the procession of costumed kids walking up. Soothing music will also help, and if you have a storm vest or jacket for your dog, let them wear that, too. Beyond barking at trick or treaters, this can be a very common time for pets to escape. Ensure they are microchipped and try not to leave them outside unattended.And if your dog is experiencing loose stools, keep an eye on the Four C’s of pet stool: color, consistency, contents and coating. If you notice your pet’s stool is loose and liquid, discolored, contains worm segments or has a film-like coating, contact your veterinarian.Thankfully, a lot of intestinal distress is fleeting, and typically works itself out within a day. If problems persist, talk with your vet about Pro-Pectalin™. Pro-Pectalin™ can soothe your pet’s upset stomach stemming from a variety of causes, and comes in a gel or tablet form, so even finicky pets can be treated.FURTHER READING:https://www.petmd.com/dog/care/how-should-my-dogs-poop-lookhttps://www.justrightpetfood.com/blog/whats-your-dogs-poop-telling-youhttps://www.purina.com/pro-plan/articles/health/what-should-dog-poop-look
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Helping Your Pet Cope with Fireworks
by By My Happy Pets
on Aug 15 2022
Helping Your Pet Cope with Fireworks
A practical guide on how to help your pet cope during the fireworks season, including: preparations beforehand, tips and helpful advice for the day itself.
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by By My Happy Pets
on Aug 15 2022
Dogs should be wearing a collar with ID tags.
Food, treats and any supplements. Give specific instructions on amounts and when to feed. Some kennels provide food, but this may upset your pet's stomach.
Medication - if your pet is on any medicine, pack enough for the duration of the stay plus a few extra days. Bring written dosage instructions for the kennel.
Favorite play toys and chew toys.
Bed or blanket - this helps your pet feel more at home.
Anything else that might make your dog or cat feel safe, such as an old t-shirt.
Proof of vaccination.
Also, review our 10 Tips When Boarding Your Pet.
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Best Practices for Boarding Your Cat
by By My Happy Pets
on Aug 15 2022
Traveling can be stressful for cats and their owners. Reduce some of that stress by finding a place well in advance for your cat to stay during your trip.Look for a cat specific kennel, or a facility that has cat condos with hiding places. Often times, these condos are on the other side of the facility away from the dogs. Some facilities offer cat suites, furnished with cat trees, soft beds and window sills. Tour a few facilities before making a reservation to find the best fit for your cat.When preparing to board your cat:
Make sure the cat condo is big enough. The water bowl, food bowl and litter box should not be right next to each other.
Ask about enrichment programs. Look at add on activities to engage your cat
Make sure your cat is up to date on any vaccines required by the facility. You may also want to consider flea/tick control products before boarding.
Book early! Boarding facilities can book up quickly, especially around the holidays
Get your cat used to the cat carrier in the weeks leading up to boarding. If your cat views the carrier as a happy place, it’ll be easier for you to transport them.
Talk to other cat owners! You’ll find out what places your friends and family recommend
What to pack for your cat’s stay:
Food with detailed instructions: Do you free feed your cat? Or is your cat fed breakfast, lunch and dinner?
Any medications and supplements your cat takes with dosage instructions
Copies of vaccine records
Treats
Toys
Other comforts from home, such as a favorite blanket or pillow
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Ask Dr. Brian | Tips to Keep Cats Safe Around Holiday Décor
by By My Happy Pets
on Aug 15 2022
Ask Dr. Brian | Tips to Keep Cats Safe Around Holiday Décor
The turkey is in the oven, the halls are decked and the gifts are wrapped, but do you know where the cat is? With all the excitement of the holidays, sometimes we can lose track of our four-legged family members, only to find the cat playing with the tinsel on your beautifully decorated tree. Our veterinary expert at Vetoquinol, Dr. Brian says that the holiday season is prime time for pet hazards; offer these tips to keep your pets and home safe.
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Ask Dr. Brian | Tips to Help Dogs with Holiday Anxiety
by By My Happy Pets
on Aug 15 2022
Ask Dr. Brian | Tips to Help Dogs with Holiday Anxiety
Think being around lots of people makes you stressed? Just imagine how your pet feels! Make sure to keep an eye on your pets’ behavior for any signs of anxiety. Zylkene, a behavioral supplement, can be started a few days before the holidays to help pets cope once the festivities (and all the hustle and bustle that comes with it!) arrive. Ask for Zylkene by name at your local veterinary clinic or online at Chewy.com or Healthy Pets.
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The Step-By-Step Guide to Happy Holiday Boarding
by By My Happy Pets
on Aug 15 2022
If you’re traveling for the holidays, there’s a good chance that “boarding your pet” is on the long to-do list you’re working your way through. And if you’re feeling stressed about it, chances are your pet is, too. But boarding doesn’t have to be stressful! With just a little forethought, you can board your pets and be confident that they’ll enjoy the holidays just as much as you do. Just follow these steps to help your whole family have a happy holiday.First, check out the facility before you board. If you can, ask your veterinarian what boarding facility they recommend – but whether you’re going with that recommendation or another place, it’s a good idea to get a look at the kennels and catteries beforehand. In fact, if you can, do a one-night trial run just to see how your pet is feeling the next day.While you’re there, ask about optional services available for your pet. This may mean more walks for your dog, more playtime for your cats, group play, or even the ability to monitor your pet’s activity while you’re away. More to do means more fun, and that means less stress for you and for them.And if your pets get homesick, be sure to pack small comforts from home. These can be as simple as favorite toys, treats, or blankets. Having something that feels and smells like home will help them relax until it’s time for you to come pick them up.Speaking of comforts from home, it can be helpful to pack their usual food. Boarding places will offer their own food, but if you want to give your pets some continuity (and avoid any gastrointestinal distress), bring the food they’re used to with specific instructions for the staff on how to feed them.Finally, make sure their daily products are in order. That means making sure all orders are filled and you have enough to last the duration of the stay (and a few days after). It can also mean helping your pets thrive during the holidays with a behavioral supplement like Zylkene®. Zylkene® can help your cat or dog handle new situations and new people on an even keel – without altering their behavior or making them drowsy.And if you do try out new supplements like Zylkene®, consult with your veterinarian prior to (and after, if needed) boarding. That will give you time to adjust dosage so you and your pet get the results you need.With these tips, we hope that you and your pets won’t just survive the holiday seaon, but thrive in it. We wish you AND your pets a Happy Holidays!
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by By My Happy Pets
on Jun 01 2022
Planning a summer vacation with pets is exciting! Follow these
tips to properly prepare you and your pet for your vacationHitting
the Road?If you are taking a road trip with your pet, don’t forget to
take a trial run first. Bring your pet with you around town to see how they
respond in different situations. Make sure you have options to ensure your pet
is safely secured within your vehicle. For smaller dogs and cats, always have
them secured in a carrier. For larger dogs, a crate in the back of the car that
is secured is preferable. Pet seat belts or restraints are also an option.Depending on the length of your trip, plan out stops so that
your pet has ample opportunities to use the restroom and stretch their legs.
Some rest stops and larger gas stations even have doggy play areas! Don’t
forget to allow pets to hydrate while traveling – and if traveling during
regular meal times, make sure they are able to eat.Lastly, consider car temperatures! Never leave your pet
unattended in a warm car. Temperatures inside a parked car can reach 20-30
degrees higher than outside, and can quickly become deadly for a pet.Flying
high?Flying with a pet is more popular than ever. Some airlines are
even doing more to accommodate pets, but there are still a few things to keep
in mind if you are taking off with your pet in tow.First, always make sure your pet is in good health before
flying. If your pet is very young or old, or has a particularly fragile medical
condition, it may be best to leave them at home.Second, do your research first regarding airline fees and
policies – you might be surprised at how quickly they can add up. Some airlines
charge extra for bringing pets and others will consider your pet carrier as a
“checked bag.” Take a close look at your airlines’ pet policies.If you are heading out of country, pay close attention to laws
regarding vaccinations and medical records needed prior to bringing your pet.
Some countries (and Hawaii) even require quarantine periods.If you are taking your pet across state or international
borders, a health certificate may be required. Do your research in
advance.Some valuable resources to help you with your individual travel
circumstances include:
www.avma.org/public/PetCare/Pages/Traveling-with-Your-Pet-FAQs.aspx www.aphis.usda.gov (Go
to “travel with a pet” and select from various options related to your
travel scenario)
Keep
your pet safe – no matter how you are traveling
Ensure
your pet’s ID tags are current and that your pet is micro chipped with updated contact
information Consult
with your veterinarian about your plans If
your pet gets nervous while traveling, consider a calming supplement to
ease their worries Bring
your pet’s favorite toys or blanket as a familiar reminder of home
Ensuring your pet’s well-being while on summer vacation can help
make this trip the best one yet. As always, if you have
questions, talk to your veterinarian.
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10 Tips When Boarding Your Pet
by By My Happy Pets
on Apr 11 2022
Keep their diet the same: Many boarding facilities will offer
food as part of your pet’s stay. However, changing up your pet’s diet can
suddenly wreak havoc on their digestive system. In addition to the nerves they
are already feeling by being in a new place, surrounded by strange roommates
(and noises!), changing their diet can equal disaster. Consider bringing your
pet’s own food with specific directions for the clinic regarding how much to
administer and what time of day.
Bring your pet’s medical records: If you are
boarding at a facility that is not your pet’s regular veterinary clinic, make
sure to bring copies of their medical records. Most boarding facilities require
certain shots in order to board and without proof, won’t let your pet stay.
Additionally, giving the staff an idea of any recent medical issues will allow
them to provide better care. If your pet is on any medication, don’t forget to
pack it with dosing instructions.
Check out the facility first (or better yet, do a test run): If this is your
first time boarding your pet (or first time at this particular facility), make
sure you check it out thoroughly before dropping your pet off. Some facilities
have different sizes of kennels/catteries which are best gauged in person. Many
facilities will also offer separate spaces for cats, away from the loud barking
and noises of dogs. If you can, do a test run for one night to see how your pet
does in a new environment. It’s important to check out the facility as much as
possible so you can make the best decision possible regarding your pet’s care.
Ask about optional services to make your pets stay more fun… Some clinics or
boarding facilities will offer additional play time or walks to make your pet’s
stay more fun. It’s also becoming more common to find facilities with group
play areas and/or “swimming pools” for dogs who love water. With pet activity
trackers becoming more popular, you can even monitor your pet’s activity level
while you’re away to ensure they are still exercising and staying active.
Incorporating activities into your pet’s stay will not only keep them active
while you’re away, but can also help the time go by faster!
.…or less stressful: Additionally, many clinics are offering
calming supplements to pets who have a hard time being away from home. These
types of supplements, like Zylkene®, can help your pet through what can be a
challenging time for them. Ask your veterinarian for more information about
these types of supplemental options.
Bring some small comforts from home: Bringing your dog’s
bed, toys and treats, can help reinforce the feelings of being at home and help
make their stay more pleasant. The same goes for cats – ask if the facility
will allow you to bring your cat’s litter box, especially if your cat is picky
(which most cats are!) Having things with them that smell like or remind them
of home is a great way to keep them more relaxed.
Book early and check their hours: If you find a clinic
or facility that you are comfortable with, make sure you book your pet’s stay
early and confirm as your trip gets closer. Many boarding facilities get booked
up, particularly during the holiday season and summer. Knowing their
open/closed hours is also important – are they open on Sunday’s? If not, and
that’s the day you return, you might have to pay for an extra night.
Ask about their emergency policy: If something happens
to your pet during their stay, what is the emergency plan? If they are a
clinic, do they offer off-hours emergency services? If not, where do they take
animals who become sick or injured and how do they determine your comfort level
regarding your pet’s care? Its information you will hopefully not have
to use, but if you do, are better off knowing in advance.
Make sure your pet is outfitted with updated
identification: In the rare event that your pet does require professional care
or is able to get free, make sure your pet has an updated collar with ID tags
and contact information. Additionally, micro-chipping your pet can help
drastically speed up the location process.
Check referrals and talk to your veterinarian first: It’s always a good
idea to check a facility’s referrals before booking. This can help you make the
best decision for your pet. If you are still unsure about where to go or how to
help your pet cope with staying away from home, ask your veterinarian for their
recommendations.
Check out our Boarding Packing Checklist.
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Using the Stress Ladder to Understand Your Pet's Behavior
by By My Happy Pets
on Apr 04 2022
Behavioral issues are thought to affect at least 90 percent of dog and cats. In the U.S. alone, that means nearly 60 million dogs and 68 million cats are experiencing a regular, negative reaction to something that is causing them anxiety or stress.Similar to stress and anxiety in humans, the causes and effects can vary greatly. And for pets, the issue can be literally life or death: behavioral issues are the #1 cause of euthanasia in pets. If pet parents know what to look for, they can work with their veterinarian to treat behavioral issues before they escalate.What is the stress ladder?The “stress ladder” is a term given to a scale that measures signs or symptoms of pet behavioral issues. Less severe reactions (such as yawning) fall towards the bottom of the ladder, while more serious reactions (such as aggression or biting) rate near the top of the ladder.Here are some examples of common signs of behavioral issues and where they would typically fall on the stress ladder:
In most cases of extreme behavioral issues, there are many small signals that were likely missed along the way. The stress ladder scale is a simple guide to help you identify your pet's stress signals so you can intervene and help them before they move up the ladder.Remember: all animals are different, so the way they react under stress can vary greatly.Recognizing your pet is experiencing stress and anxietyWhen trying to understand your pet's behavioral issues, it's important to keep in mind that even seemingly minor symptoms can, over time, take a major toll on your pet’s health. If your pet is exhibiting signs of stress, the best thing you can do is talk with your veterinarian about strategies and treatments to bring them back to baseline. The higher up the stress ladder your pet is when you recognize there is a problem, the more challenging it will be to bring them back to baseline.At lower rungs of the ladder, simply taking your pet to their "safe space," comforting them, or providing a calming nutraceutical may be enough to get them back to baseline. At higher rungs of the ladder, your veterinarian may recommend medication and/or visiting a board certified behaviorist to get to the bottom of the issue. A great resource for finding a board certified behaviorist near you can be found here.Understanding your pet's behavior can be challenging, but it's also an integral part of their overall wellness. The stress ladder is a helpful tool to understanding how small changes in your pet's behavior can snowball into a much bigger, and more dangerous problem over time. When vising your vet, don't hesitate to bring up any questions or concerns you might have regarding your pet's behavior!
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The Importance of Puppy Socialization
by By My Happy Pets
on Jan 03 2022
When we bring a new puppy home, our instincts tell us to protect
that puppy and keep him or her absolutely safe. But it is also important that
we expose our puppies to everyday experiences as much as possible, especially
in the first three months of their life. During this time period, puppies are
the most receptive to learning, which will have an impact on their personality.
The benefits of socializing your puppy far outweigh the time it takes. Often
times, puppies who aren't socialized sufficiently can be aggressive and overly
fearful of people or their environment.Puppies
are typically adopted around 8 weeks of age. Every puppy is a bit different
when it comes to their psychological and behavioral well-being, and some are
going to be further along in their exposure and socialization. When you bring
your puppy home, focus on these areas of socialization to help them become
happy, healthy dogs:Exposure To Other
Pets:Controlled exposure to other dogs, cats, pocket pets, birds, and
others is helpful for puppies to learn how to act around other animals.Handling:Touching, looking in
ears, examining the mouth, handling feet, nail trimming, bathing,
leashing/harnessing/wrapping, restraining (with positive reinforcement),
playing with toys, and brushing teeth are all good things to get your puppy
used to during this critical learning period.Environment/Outside
World:Exposing your puppy to doors, crates, cars, street drains,
different surfaces, clothes, blankets, beds or various things outside is
essential to get them used to everyday objects.Sounds:To get your puppy used
to sounds, and to avoid a negative reaction to noises such as fireworks or
thunderstorms, work to give your puppy positive reinforcement with these
sounds. A useful trick is to introduce recorded sounds of thunder or fireworks
from sound CD's, starting with a low volume and working up to a realistically loud
volume. Be sure to provide positive reinforcement such as petting, treats or
your puppy's favorite toy. In addition, car horns, trains and other loud noises
can be introduced.The Veterinarian:Preparing for the
veterinary visit is just as important as the veterinary visit. Take frequent
trips to visit your veterinarian with your puppy and make it a positive
experience for both of you. Hanging out in the clinic lobby for 10-15 minutes
and interacting positively with people and other animals (in a controlled
manner) will help alleviate fear and anxiety with veterinary visits in the
future. They key is to make the experience positive with no poking or prodding
involved.People:Meeting new people on
a daily basis is recommended. This can occur at home or while out and about.
Providing a positive experience with treats during these encounters is
encouraged. Don't forget about socializing with people in uniform and children.In
addition to socialization, it is important to work with puppies in a training
atmosphere. Positive reinforcement is essential with this training. Find a
reputable training class or trainer where positive reinforcement is used to
keep puppies feeling happy and safe. The goal is to give the puppy good
feelings about environments, people, and commands, typically reinforced by
giving them food.You
can also do this on your own, and there are many resources to help you out in
this process. These sessions should be relatively short, around 3-5 minutes at
a time with a lot of play and positivity. Remember to use good judgement with
all of these interactions when it comes to your puppy's health. It is
recommended to keep up with your puppy's vaccine schedule and avoid areas where
unvaccinated dogs roam or areas/classes that aren't well controlled when it
comes to vaccines and deworming.In
summary, the key to well-being is exposing your puppy to as much as possible
early in life, while ensuring a safe environment. You will find that this
exposure will pay off and provide you with a companion that is comfortable with
their surroundings.
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The Step-By-Step Guide to Happy Holiday Boarding
by By My Happy Pets
on Dec 01 2021
If you’re traveling for the holidays, there’s a good chance that “boarding your pet” is on the long to-do list you’re working your way through. And if you’re feeling stressed about it, chances are your pet is, too. But boarding doesn’t have to be stressful! With just a little forethought, you can board your pets and be confident that they’ll enjoy the holidays just as much as you do. Just follow these steps to help your whole family have a happy holiday.First, check out the facility before you board. If you can, ask your veterinarian what boarding facility they recommend – but whether you’re going with that recommendation or another place, it’s a good idea to get a look at the kennels and catteries beforehand. In fact, if you can, do a one-night trial run just to see how your pet is feeling the next day.While you’re there, ask about optional services available for your pet. This may mean more walks for your dog, more playtime for your cats, group play, or even the ability to monitor your pet’s activity while you’re away. More to do means more fun, and that means less stress for you and for them.And if your pets get homesick, be sure to pack small comforts from home. These can be as simple as favorite toys, treats, or blankets. Having something that feels and smells like home will help them relax until it’s time for you to come pick them up.Speaking of comforts from home, it can be helpful to pack their usual food. Boarding places will offer their own food, but if you want to give your pets some continuity (and avoid any gastrointestinal distress), bring the food they’re used to with specific instructions for the staff on how to feed them.Finally, make sure their products are in order. That means making sure all products are filled and you have enough to last the duration of the stay (and a few days after). It can also mean helping your pets thrive during the holidays with a behavioral supplement like Zylkene®. Zylkene® can help your cat or dog handle new situations and new people on an even keel – without altering their behavior or making them drowsy.And if you do try out new supplements like Zylkene®, consult with your veterinarian prior to (and after, if needed) boarding. That will give you time to adjust dosage so you and your pet get the results you need.With these tips, we hope that you and your pets won’t just survive the holiday seaon, but thrive in it. We wish you AND your pets a Happy Holidays!