Fireworks Safety for Your Pets

It's that time of year again! The 4th of July is right around the corner, which means hot weather, picnics, parades, and...fireworks! In the weeks before and after this fun holiday, people are shooting off fireworks right and left. If you have a pet that suffers anxiety from loud noises, this may not be much fun for you or them. Don't worry! We have some helpful tips to share so that this year's festivities can be worry-free.

Be prepared

Make sure your pets have ID tags and are microchipped. Animals who are sensitive to loud noises may run away during fireworks. Having proper identification on your pets can help you locate them and bring them back home.

Leave your pets at home in a safe spot like their crates or in a bathroom that is secure when you go out to a party or fireworks display.

It's a good idea to have a fenced-in yard. If your pet decides to run away, it will help keep them from going too far. If you don't have a fence, it's better to leave them inside your house.

If your pet has high anxiety from fireworks, consider getting an anti-anxiety prescription from your veterinarian. We recommend Sileo.

What is Sileo?

An FDA-approved medication, Sileo treats dogs who suffer from noise aversion. If you notice your pet pacing, panting, lip licking, or shaking during firework shows, it might be a good idea to try Sileo. It calms your dog without sedating it, so your dog can be stress-free and normal.

If you are interested in Sileo for the upcoming 4th of July holiday, let us know a few days beforehand and one of our veterinarians can get you a prescription for your dog.

Be safe this July!

The Importance of Dogs on Leashes

Should a dog be on or off a leash?

This question could be controversial, as there are opinions for both sides. It also can be personal, because every owner and dog is different. We want to share some insight on the matter, so that you can learn more about leash etiquette and why it's so important.

For those with dog-friendly dogs

Not all dogs are friendly. You might have a sweet, curious dog that loves to play with other dogs, but some people do not. There are several reasons why some dogs are unfriendly towards other dogs. They may not have been socialized as a puppy, had a traumatic experience that makes them cautious against other dogs, or has a temperament that doesn't mesh well with unfamiliar canines. Off leash is not a bad thing, but if you're an owner with a dog off leash, and it runs up to a dog who does not do well with other dogs, it's probable your dog will be attacked.

A good rule of thumb is to always have your dog leashed when you are in a place with high dog traffic. If you are out somewhere, with no other dogs in sight, it's great to have your dog off leash. Leashes are not a negative thing. In fact, they help you keep your dog under control when it passes other dogs. 

For those with dogs who need their space

If you have a dog that doesn't do well with other dogs, you know the importance of a leash. You almost always know what will happen when your dog comes in contact with another dog, which is usually some sort of conflict. When you are out walking your dog on the sidewalk and you see another dog and its owner coming in the opposite direction, you cross the street to the other side. You always avoid dog parks. Sometimes both you and your dog are anxious when you come to a park with other dogs. When you see a dog running towards you and your dog, you tense up and try to shield your dog. It can be hard having a dog that doesn't do well with other dogs. Some dog owners don't realize how stressful it is for you and your dog when they walk with their dogs off leash. 

We know it can be stressful having a dog that needs its space. Don't worry. Your dog just needs extra care and precaution. And the best way to prevent something from happening is to keep them secure on a leash. You would hope that someone else with a dog would keep it on a leash as well. 

Leashes are an important tool

Leashes are a good way to keep dogs safe and help keep them under control. When dogs are off leash and meet another dog, it's hard to anticipate how either side will react. Dogs, after all, are animals and react instinctively. It takes less than a few seconds for dogs to have a reaction with each other–for good or bad. Leashes allow you to get control of your dog if a fight were to break out. If either dog is off leash, it is opening a window for something harmful to occur.

Retractable Leashes

In our opinion, retractable leashes are not the best way to leash your dog. They are not dependable, especially if your dog starts running after something and you can't brake quickly enough. It's also difficult to keep your dog under control while using a retractable leash. Because dogs on retractable leashes are accustomed to roaming freely on the leash, it is much harder to control them if they come in contact with another dog.

We want to present you with this information so that you can make the decision about having your dog on or off the leash. It's respectful to have your dog on a leash in high dog traffic areas. Not only is it safe, but a good way to keep you in control of your dog. Remember, you and your dog are not the only pair out walking on the street. 

Here are some helpful sites for more information about the importance leashing your dog:

DINOS

The Bark

Bird-Proofing Your House

Birds are similar to toddlers; getting into trouble around the house before you have time to think. If you've recently acquired a bird, you'll need to bird-proof your house. Not only will it minimize your bird getting into trouble and making a mess, but also give you piece of mind knowing you've done your part to keep them safe. Let's talk about bird-proofing.

If you can believe it, bird-proofing is much more complicated than for a child or puppy. Birds are very curious, and will get into almost anything. Plus, they can fly. Basically your bird is a two-year-old toddler that can fly. They are also very sensitive to odors and chemicals, and explore things with their mouths–meaning they put everything in their mouths. The most important rule to bird safety is knowing where your bird is at ALL TIMES. If you are unable to watch your bird out of its cage, the best thing to do is keep it in the cage.

Below are some safety tips to help keep your bird safe:

Fans


Ceiling fans can be a major hazard to your bird. The blades can cut its toes, give it a concussion, or trap its wings. The best thing to do is turn off all ceiling fans when your bird is out of its cage.

Windows

Birds don't understand the concept of glass and will fly through it, just like wild birds flying outside do. To protect your bird, cover your windows by drapes or blinds.

Electrical Cords

It's okay to have electrical cords, but be aware that your bird could chew on them. If it does, they could cause burns, electrocution, or oral and GI tract injury or obstruction. Just make sure to keep an eye on your bird, and hide the cords as best as possible.

The Kitchen

The kitchen houses a lot of bird hazards. Don't allow your bird into the kitchen if you are cooking or have recently cooked. Also, don't keep its enclosure in the kitchen. The kitchen can be a danger zone for your bird. It can get burned on a hot stove or eat something toxic (chocolate, avocado, onion/garlic, fruit pits and apple seeds, salt, and more). Don't use Teflon or other non-stick materials if you have a bird. They give off fumes that are toxic to birds.

Bathrooms

The bathroom can be a dangerous spot for your bird if it's not bird proofed. Make sure all sources of water are drained or covered so you're bird doesn't drown. Close the lid to the toilet and drain your tub. Store all medications in a safe spot so your bird doesn't accidently open the bottles and ingest the pills. Hide all toxic items including cleaning supplies, aerosol containers, make-up, and make-up removers.

The Laundry Room

The laundry room can have several hazards. Your bird can fly into the washer or drier and get trapped. Check both the washer and drier before putting anything inside. Keep detergents, bleach,  and fabric softeners in a cupboard and out of the reach of your bird. They are very toxic! Also, be careful when ironing, as your bird can get burned from the iron

Heat Sources, Smokes, and Fumes

Birds can easily get burned from burning candles, fireplaces, space heaters, and uncovered light bulbs. Your bird shouldn't be in the same room as these heat sources. Also, toxic fumes and smoke can negatively affect your bird's respiratory system. Be mindful when using products/substances that have strong odors, such as bleach, glues, hairspray, potpourri, gasoline, and paint.

Heavy Metals

Household items such as jewelry, nails, staples, clasps, and zippers can be a hazard to your bird if they get it in their system and cause lead poisoning. Keep anything that has a trace of metal our of the reach of your bird.

House Plants

Be careful with plants in your house when your bird is around. Many household plants are toxic and can be harmful to your bird when ingested. Some common plants include black locust, coffee beans, daffodils, elephant's ear, holly, honeysuckle, ivy, jasmine, lilies, mistletoe, morning glory, parsley, philodendron, poinsettia, potatoes, rhododendron, tobacco, and tomato.

This is a lot of information to digest, but keeping your bird safe is a priority. Just remember, if you are unable to keep an eye on your bird, put them in their cage.

Weight Loss Tips for Your Pet

It's a new year and time to make those annual resolutions. Most people have goals to lose weight and develop a healthier lifestyle. Have you evaluated your pets and their health needs? Did they pack on a few extra pounds this last year that they need to lose? Besides the fact of looking trim and moving around well, pets who are at a healthy weight will likely have less health problems. This goes for all types of animals–dogs, cats, birds, hamsters, reptiles, bunnies, and more.

In our 30 plus years of being in business, we have seen our fair share of overweight and obese pets. And want to know the number one cause of obesity? Poor diet. That's right! By simply changing your pet's diet you can help prolong the life of your loved one. Take birds, for instance. A proper diet is everything for a bird in captivity. If they aren't fed the right foods, they can develop all sorts of health problems related to obesity. By simply keeping them on a strict diet of pellets mixed with nuts, fruit, and veggies, you are creating a healthy lifestyle for your bird. This means no bread, seeds (they are too high in fat for captive birds), or Twinkies (yes, clients have actually fed them to their birds), to name a few.

Let's talk about dogs. If you have a dog, you probably know they love table scraps. Whatever you do, don't feed them stuff from the table–no matter how tempting those begging eyes look. Here's a rule of thumb: if you eat it, they likely shouldn't. Now there are some exceptions. Some veggies can be a healthy treat for your dog. Carrots make great treats! The best thing to feed your dog is what your veterinarian recommends. Usually this is a kibble diet with the occasional healthy dog treat. Make sure not to overfeed or underfeed your dog. Usually the amount to feed your dog is based on their breed and weight. Ask your vet about how much you should be feeding your dog. In addition to a good diet, dogs need exercise

Depending on the breed, dogs should get 20-30 minutes of exercise each day. Some breeds, such as border collies, need more physical activity every day, but the average dog just needs to get out and walk. And if you're exercising your dog on a daily basis, you are also getting exercise. It's a win-win!

Cats also need to be on a proper diet as well. We want to remind you they need to eat meat protein. We had a client in the past who was a vegetarian and fed their cat strictly broccoli and rice. Please do not do this! They will end up being underweight and malnourished. If you stick by the diet our vets recommend for cats, they will be healthy and happy. Be also aware of feline obesity. Don't feed your cat more than they need.

Let's face it. Your pet's weight depends on you and what you feed it. As a pet owner, you are responsible for taking control of their health. A good diet is simple: feed them what they are supposed to eat, and don't feed them what they shouldn't.

All About Reindeer

It's the Christmas season! We thought we would share a little bit of information about reindeer–just for fun. No, they are not a myth like Santa (shh! don't tell anyone.). Known as caribou, these amazing creatures live in North America (not the north pole as many believe) and Europe. They are also found in other tundra climate areas.

Antlers

Do all reindeer have antlers? Yes, however, antlers on males are typically larger than females. You wouldn't want to upset a reindeer. The males use their antlers to fight other males during mating season. Reindeer also use their antlers as a defense mechanism when they feel threatened. If you are ever around a reindeer, make sure to be careful. Those antlers can be dangerous!

Diet

Lichens (moss) are a big part of a reindeer's diet, especially in the winter. Reindeer also like to munch on leaves from branches, fungi, and grass. This makes them herbivores!

Habitat

Reindeer mainly live in tundra climate. Their bodies are equipped to handle cold winters and snow. In fact, their hooves are large, and perfect for walking through deep, crisp snow.

So why are reindeer a big part of Christmas? It's hard to say. The idea of nine reindeer pulling a jolly old soul around in a sleigh started with old folklore. In our opinion, we'd much rather see caribou in the wild!

Holiday Pet Hazards

It's that time of year when we stuff ourselves with turkey and decorate the Christmas tree. There's so much to do and eat this time of year, but remember your pets can get into trouble if you aren't careful. The last thing we want is for you to spend time in the emergency room with a sick pet on Thanksgiving. To keep your pet safe, it is important to educate yourselves about holiday hazards. Below is a list of common holiday things that can harm your pet.

Food and Plants

Chocolate

Foods with Xylitol

Alcohol

Turkey bones and skin

Sugary foods

Yeast dough

Table Scraps

Poinsettias

Mistletoe

Holly

Decorations

Christmas trees

Ornaments

Tinsel

Candles

Electric light cords

Potpourris

We hope you and your pet have a safe Thanksgiving with zero trips to the emergency clinic! If you do need to take your pet to the hospital, you can call us at 801-298-2014 to receive information about the nearest pet ER.

Is Pumpkin Good for my Dog?

Believe it or not, pumpkin pulp is a good source of fiber for your dog and provides several health benefits. It is something that can be given yearlong and not just during the fall season.

Don't mistaken canned pumpkin for a pumpkin that grows on a vine. Pumpkin rinds could be harmful for your dog. They are hard for them to digest and could cause some issues in their stomachs. Canned pumpkin (without added spices), however, gives your dog plenty of fiber and can help with digestive problems. It also contains a good source of potassium, Vitamin A, iron, and beta carotene.

This time of year is perfect to open up a can of pumpkin and give your dog a few teaspoons of the pulp. Pumpkin seeds also have health benefits and can be a nice treat for your dog. Make sure not to serve your dog pumpkin or pumpkin seeds without talking to a veterinarian. It should not replace your dog's diet.

Pumpkin can help with the following:

• Diarrhea
• Weight Loss
• Constipation

If you have any questions about feeding your dog pumpkin, ask one of the Parrish Creek veterinarians. They can let you know if you should feed your dog pumpkin and how much, as well as educate you on the benefits of pumpkin for your dog's health.

Sources: (Purina, https://www.purina.com/articles/dog/nutrition/can-dogs-eat-pumpkin-sweet-potatoes-and-nuts; Pet Health Network, http://www.pethealthnetwork.com/dog-health/dog-diet-nutrition/does-canned-pumpkin-help-dog-diarrhea)

Check out the recipe below for a healthy, dog pumpkin treat:

Pumpkin Carrot Bites

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup canned pumpkin
• 1 egg slightly beaten
• 1/4 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup whole wheat flour

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. Stir pumpkin, egg, carrots and flour in a large bowl until moistened. 
3. Roll the batter into small balls and place on a baking sheet. 
4. Bake for 30 - 35 minutes.

(Source: https://www.mypawsitivelypets.com/2014/11/holiday-dog-treat-recipe-pumpkin-carrot.html)