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Cat Jumping? How to Keep Her Paws on the Ground

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In a cat’s world, nothing is off limits: the inside of boxes, underneath a bed, on top of your keyboard. It’s all fair game to a cat that wants to play, rest, hide, or is just plain curious.

That cat privilege extends—in their mind—to perches on the top of your counters, the upper reaches of a bookshelf, and even the top of the refrigerator. After all, cat jumping skills are top-notch. Cats can easily exceed altitudes six times their height. A study in the Journal of Experimental Biology reports that cats are superior jumpers because of the limb length and muscle mass of theCatasir back legs. Cats start a jump in a very deep crouch, then lift their front legs before “an explosive extension” of their back legs.

While there is no argument that a cat’s jumping ability is impressive, it can also be annoying (and dangerous, as Vetstreet notes cats don’t always land on their feet) to have cats regularly leaping to spots in your home that are high above their heads.

How can pet parents keep cats off furniture, shelves, counters, and anywhere else in the home where they don’t belong?

Clean off Shelves

Cats are naturally curious. A pen, a set of keys, or a fragile knick-knack can catch their attention and tempt them to jump up to explore this “toy” that has been left for them to find. By keeping shelves clear of clutter, you can also lessen your cat’s interest in exploring places you don’t want them to go. This can also be beneficial to you as cats are known for knocking things off shelves, and unfortunately they aren’t good at handling a broom and dustpan to clean up the mess after themselves.

Cat Jumping

Keep Food off Kitchen Counters

A cat’s sense of smell is much better than yours, so if they smell something tasty, they are likely to jump up to try to sneak a nibble. That can be dangerous for them, depending on what the food is. By keeping counters clear of food and crumbs, you’ll discourage your kitty from leaping onto your kitchen counters. If you find that your cat is intensely curious about what you’re making for dinner—and won’t stay off the counters while you’re preparing it—simply shut your cat in another room until the kitchen is clean.

Shut the Blinds

Cats like to jump to window sills to take in the outdoor view. If there’s a windowsill that you don’t want your cat to use, simply shut the blinds to take away the kitty TV. But make sure you give your cat at least one spot to look outside, as cats enjoy watching the world go by.

Give Them an Alternative

A cat jumping condo gives your furry friend a place to jump, exercise, and explore. Keep it interesting for them by rotating the toys, boxes to hide in and even crumpled pieces of paper to bat around. Be imaginative! Cat trees are also an excellent way to let your cats jump and climb to their hearts desire. It’s important to note that you shouldn’t completely eliminate your cat’s ability to jump. It’s part of their innate behaviour built into their DNA from their ancestors, where they would climb trees to escape predators as well as stalk their prey from high above before pouncing. Providing an approved place for exercise and jumping will also help keep your cat off of other high areas where they might not be welcomed.

Use Double-Sided Tape

Cats hate the feel of double-sided tape on their paws, so it can be a good deterrent for a cat who continues to jump to a place you don’t want them to go. If it’s a spot you use frequently, attach the double-sided tape to a place mat so it’s easily movable.

Understand Their Jumping Behaviour

It’s true that jumping is coded in your cat’s DNA. They are hardwired to enjoy being up high where they are safe, but it is also good as the parent to understand the need to be hidden away from everyone. If you notice your cat jumping up high more frequently or shying back in hard to reach areas like cabinets or the top of a closet it might be because they are stressed or not feeling their best. Because of their ancestral lineage, cats that are sick or injured will hide themselves away to keep out of reach of predators. They might also be trying to get away from some other sort of danger if they feel afraid. It’s helpful to understand what they might be fearful of to help remove it from the environment. Slowly, as your cat starts to feel safer, they will come back down to your level and interact more.

Cats are natural jumpers so you shouldn’t discourage the behaviour altogether. But with a little training, you can teach your cat where not to leap.

Source: Hills
Writer: Kara Murphy
Website: www.hillspet.co.za

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Bringing a new pet home

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Bringing a new pet home

Image: Pixabay

Whether you buy or adopt, whether canine or feline, it can be a challenge to bring a new pet home. The most important thing to remember when introducing a new pet into your home is to take things slow. Time is your friend. Keep in Mind the rule of three, allow your pet the space he or she may need to feel comfortable and settle as the transition may be somewhat stressful. An important thing to remember is that a dog that may display a happy, playful attitude at a meet and greet, may be weary or fearful in a completely new environment.

Watch for cues about how your pet is feeling. If your pet seems timid, try to move slowly, watch for cues about how your pet is feeling. If your pet seems timid, start by sitting calmly in the room, maybe read a book or watch a TV show, let them just be around you until they feel comfortable enough to approach you. If your pet is full of energy and ready to play, get out the toys right away. But be cautious. Pets can be both scared and full of energy. The care you take with your own behavior in early days will pay off in the future as your pet learns that you are someone to trust.

To have the run of an entire house can be overwhelming, especially if it happens too fast. Sheltered pets are used to restricted areas and may feel more at ease in a smaller area of the house at first. Resist the temptation to let your pet run loose in the house during this first week, especially if you have other pets. If your new dog seems comfortable and relaxed (not hiding and is willing to come to you for affection and food) you can provide access to other areas of your home.

If your new dog is the only pet in your home, you can close off “off limit areas” like the garage if you have some toxic items in there that you don’t want your dog getting into and allow them to explore the rest when they are ready.

Cats are creatures of habit and will hide under beds etc. Set up a small, quiet area for your new cat to help establish a safe and secure environment. A small quiet room with a litterbox may be best at first, until your cat is more at ease in the new environment and with you. If your cat seems comfortable and relaxed (not hiding and is willing to come to you for affection and food) you can provide access to other areas of your home.

Bringing a new pet home

Image: English & French Bulldog Rescue SA

If you already have pets at home, you’re no doubt looking forward to a happy, harmonious relationship between all your animals. If you want to introduce a new dog to a resident dog, a walk may be a great way to do so. One person per dog, in a neutral outdoor space. Start on the opposite sides of the street and gradually move closer, rewarding both dogs every time you move a little closer, until they can walk side by side. Allow them to sniff each other while still on leash so you have control over them should something go wrong. Always use a calm neutral tone of voice, high pitches may cause excitement.

When going home with both dogs, allow them to run outside first before allowing them both in the house together. Again, keep that calm tone of voice and leave those leashes on so you have control if needed. Supervise their interactions closely.

If an altercation occurs, separate the dogs for a few days to give them a break from each other. Stress hormones can take this long to return to normal, and if you try to continue the introduction too soon, the altercations could get worse. Some posturing and mild aggression can be normal as dogs become more comfortable, even after a successful first few days or weeks. Don’t panic!

Caring for a pet can be a wonderful way to teach your children respect and compassion for all living things. Make it clear to children that pets aren’t toys. Animals must be treated gently and handled with care. Young children must never be left alone or unsupervised, with any animal, even for a moment. Although children can participate in light–care activities like grooming and playtime, a parent must be fully prepared to be the primary caretaker.

Even the most docile of dogs can cause harm if teased or frightened or if his/her prey drive is triggered. As a parent, it’s up to you to teach your dog appropriate behavior, as well as teaching your children how to behave around pets. Teach your children to treat animals with respect. Help children understand canine body language so they can recognize when a dog is friendly, fearful, or aggressive. Teach your child to allow dogs to approach them, not the other way around as sometimes a child can make a dog feel threatened. Teach children to respect a dog’s privacy. Never allow a child to disturb a dog while eating, chewing on a bone or toy, or sleeping. Dogs are naturally territorial and may growl, snap, or bite to protect their possessions. Tell children not to look a dog directly in the eye. In dog language, a stare is a threat and may trigger the dog to act dominantly or aggressively.

Your new cat or kitten will need several days to adjust to its new home, so limit your child’s interaction to gentle petting, and only when the cat approaches. Don’t allow young children to pick up, carry or put their faces close to the animal. Sudden movements and loud noises can easily frighten your pet, so children should speak and sit quietly around the cat.

Source: English & French Bulldog Rescue SA

Pet New Years resolutions – part 2

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Pet

Image by The Paw Company

Pet New Years resolutions – part 2

Your pets can be healthier and happier in 2024 with some or all of these pawsome pet new year’s resolutions!

A new year brings new goals and more than 300 days of opportunity for you and your pet to bond, develop healthier habits and discover new ways to live a full life. Your pet can live a better tomorrow with your help. An important first step is to avoid becoming overwhelmed thinking you need to make big changes overnight. Baby steps in the right direction are the way to go. The important thing is to make a plan and move steadily forward.

Re-publication: Originally published 11 January 2023

TRY A NEW ACTIVITY, LOOK AT THINGS FROM A NEW ANGLE OR GO ON AN ADVENTURE

You see so much more of the world compared to the animals in your care. To them, you, your family and your home are their world. Let them see more! Do you have an adventurous dog breed? Or a curious cat? Try a new activity with them. Find something you both love doing. Many restaurants are now offering dog-friendly seating areas and during the off-season, more beaches are open to dogs.

INCORPORATE MORE PLAY AND FUN TIME

Besides being fun, playing has a vital role in their development. It promotes confidence. If they are confident, they tend to be less anxious or fearful. You should also play breed-specific games including scent & track, eye & stalk, chase, grab-bite, kill-bite, possess, dissect, and consume. Resolve to get at least one new toy and play with your pet, even just 5 minutes a day. For cats, you can also buy a new scratching post or build a new cat tress. Most dogs love car rides.

SCHEDULE A WELLNESS CHECK-UP WITH YOUR VET AND IMPROVE YOUR PET’S HEALTH

  • Regular appointments are so important for ensuring that your animals enjoy many happy and healthy years. It can help detect any potential problems early. So, consider adding more wellness appointments to your New Year’s resolution list, but do at least one a year.
  • Make sure your necessary vaccinations are up-to-date.
  • Around the age of 8, their wellness and nutritional needs can require fine-tuning every 4 to 6 months.
  • In older animals, it’s very important to review weight, muscle tone, joint range of motion, diet, supplement protocol, and exercise habits at least semi-annually.
  • Through a healthy diet, exercise, enrichment and keeping your home safe and toxin-free, their health can improve drastically.

SEEK MORE NATURAL WAYS TO SUPPORT YOUR PET’S HEALTH

‘Integrated’ health care for domestic animals can combine the best of conventional Veterinary medicine, alongside diet and nutrition, supplements, herbal and homeopathic formulas, physiotherapy and acupressure and acupuncture. All of which can improve our pet’s quality of life.

Schedule an appointment with a natural health care practitioner to see how a more natural approach to your pet’s health care could benefit them this year…… and for every year in the future.

ADD YOUR PETS TO YOUR WILL

What is the immediate and long-term plan for your pets if you die today? Are they included in your will? Will they be taken care of? It is important to list specific instructions in your will! Is there someone in your town who will be responsible to take care of your pets in case of an emergency? You can also LEAVE A LEGACY, by donating part of your estate to an animal shelter.

Pet

Image: pexels

MICRO-CHIP AND REGISTER (OR UPDATE) YOUR PET’S MICROCHIP & ID COLLAR INFO

If your pet doesn’t have a microchip, get one now! There are affordable options and it drastically improves the chances of reuniting your pet with you if they get lost. You have to register your details on a database (preferably more than one) so it can be linked to the microchip number. Otherwise, the microchip means nothing. Make sure your details are up-to-date if you moved or changed numbers. Have a recent photo ready in case they get lost.

CLEAR OUT OLD TOYS & GET CREATIVE BY MAKING SOME NEW ONES

Take a fresh look at their toy collection and stop holding on to old, tatty, and often germ-infested pet toys. Now’s the perfect time to do a good clean and clear and to give your pet something fun and new to play with. Choose safe toys made of natural materials and clean them regularly.

Other things to toss as shared by Bark & Whiskers:

  • Toss this: Retractable leash | Replace with this: 6-foot flat leash
  • Toss this: Plastic food and water bowl | Replace with this: Stainless steel, porcelain or glass food and water bowls
  • Toss this: Old, stinky and ill-fitting collar | Replace with this: New collar
  • Toss this: Dull nail trimmers | Replace with this: Freshly sharpened or new nail trimmers, or a battery-operated rotary tool (e.g., a Dremel)
  • Toss this: Broken or chewed-up toys | Replace with this: Repaired or new nontoxic toys

SCHEDULE SOME DAILY DIY GROOMING TIME

Grooming is important to keep the coat shiny and healthy. Like playtime, grooming is something that most pets look forward to and it’s a bonding activity. Grooming your pet is also a great way to notice if something is off. Make sure their coat/skin is in good condition, nails are trimmed, eyes and ears are clean as well as maintaining good dental hygiene.

Your pets didn’t have a choice when they came to stay with you and since you chose to have them, it is your responsibility to meet their every need! Next week we will continue with the final part of this three-part series on the pet new year’s resolutions. Do better for your pets in 2024!

Do you have a New Year’s resolution for your pet?

WHEN YOU KNOW BETTER, DO BETTER!

Source: The Bulletin

Why Is Training Your Puppy Early So Important?

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puppy

Image: Pixabay

Why Is Training Your Puppy Early So Important?

How does a puppy learn?

Happy, sociable, well-behaved puppies are every owner’s dream. However, you’ll have to put in the effort to get the best outcome, and it’s always wise to start training your furbaby when they’re still young and impressionable. They may have even had some basic toilet training and obedience training from their puppy raiser. But now that they’re home, the task is now yours to reinforce.

Puppies tend to learn very quickly, and as obvious as it might sound, they don’t learn what they’re not taught, so you’ll need to teach them how to behave right from the get-go. There’s a ton of literature and advice available on puppy training, and a quick web search should also point you to training courses that may be available in your area. Alternatively, your vet would also be the best person to advise you on the best training professionals and centres for your specific breed, or may even offer their own training resources.

What basics should you keep in mind?

Puppy training can be approached in many ways, and no two trainers will train a dog in exactly the same way. However, they will mostly agree on these few basic golden rules!

  • Positive reinforcement for good behaviour in dogs: If your puppy does a good thing, reward it. Puppies learn by associating their actions with your reactions. If they get a reward for doing something good, they’re more likely to do it again. However, you have to reward them quickly enough to make the connection — about one or two seconds. You can reward your pup with a treat or with praise, or both. You could also turn it into a game to help reinforce their positive behaviour.
  • Ignoring naughty behaviour in dogs: Sometimes your puppy will be naughty, and you’ll need to teach them what not to do. Certain behaviour, like chewing, is part of how they explore their new world. However, your pup won’t know what to chew and what not to chew. Rather than shouting at your puppy or smacking it when it chews the wrong thing, it’s best to ignore them. Just pretend they’re not there.
  • Saying “no” to protect them or others: Occasionally, your pup will do something potentially dangerous, like chewing on a live electric cord. In this case, you will have to intervene, but without shouting and corporal punishment. Interrupt the pup with the word “no” to get their attention. Then, when your pup stops and pays attention to you, reward it. Again, praise or a treat will help to reinforce what they should or shouldn’t be chewing on or playing with.
  • Keeping the training short and digestible: Puppies, like kids, have a short attention span, so it’s best to keep training sessions brief. It’s better to have five or six two-minute sessions per day than one longer session. You should also train your puppy in a variety of environments, for instance, both inside and outside the house, and on walks. Just make sure that your puppy is not distracted. Your pup will have a better chance of understanding your requests when you have its undivided attention.

Source: Hill’s Pet Nutrition

Warning signs of cancer

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cancer

Warning signs of cancer

Early diagnosis means more effective treatment

While different cancers have varying warning signs, early symptoms can be general signs that something’s wrong. Some signs might indicate other illnesses as well, but in any illness, the earlier it is caught and treated, the better the prognosis and the less the cost of treatment.

Behavior Changes:

If your cat is hiding more, not interacting with you the way she normally does and is not soaking up the sun in her favorite afternoon nap spots, something may be wrong. There is similar reason to be concerned if she isn’t as active as she once was or doesn’t seem to want to put in the effort to play, even with that addictive feather toy. Bleeding or Discharge: The only normal discharges are urine, feces, and in some cases, a clear watery discharge in unspayed female cats that are in estrus. Anything else warrants a veterinary visit.

Bloating:

If your cat is suddenly looking fat when she never did before, she could have a bloated abdomen due to fluid buildup related to a cancer.

Breathing Difficulties:

A cat who is less active and struggling to breathe or breathing rapidly (greater than 40 breaths per minute) may have lung cancer/disease or a cardiac condition.

Difficulty Defecating or Urinating:

A too-clean litterbox is always a serious concern. In cancer, it could be a sign of blockage of the urinary or gastrointestinal (GI) tracts by tumors.

Jaundice:

A yellow tinge to your cat’s skin, inside her ears, on her gums, or on the “whites” of her eyes could indicate liver problems, including cancer.

Lack of Appetite:

Cancerous growths may make it difficult for a cat to eat, interfere with the absorption of nutrients, or may secrete chemicals that decrease appetite.

Lameness:

Cancers of the bones or joints can cause lameness.

Lumps and Bumps:

We all pet our cats, but that’s not the same as doing a monthly check for new lumps. Bumps could be benign fatty tumors or could be more aggressive cancers, and they should be closely monitored.

Matted Hair:

A lack of feline hygiene is a sign your cat isn’t feeling well. It could be arthritis or obesity making it difficult for her to self-groom, but she could also be weak or feeling poorly.

Mouth Abnormalities:

Drooling, especially with blood, may be due to a mass in her mouth. Oral cancers are commonly associated with foul breath.

Non-Healing Sores or Scaly Skin: Sores that won’t heal are problematic, especially if you have a white cat with sores on her face or ears.

Vomiting and/or Diarrhea:

These are commonly observed in a variety of diseases, including cancers.

Weight Loss:

Unintended weight loss should set off alarms. Cancer cells can decrease nutrient absorption and increase the metabolic demands of a cat, causing weight loss despite a good appetite. Weigh your cat monthly. It’s difficult to judge weight change when you see your cat every day.

You are your cat’s first line of defense when it comes to health care. Make sure you know her normal physical appearance so that you can recognize any changes. Caught early on, many cancers can be managed to give your cat more quality time with you.

Source: Cornell Feline Health Center

Adoption Advice for New Pet Parents

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Adoption

Adoption Advice for New Pet Parents

Adopting a pet can be one of the most rewarding decisions you’ll ever make. In addition to gaining a loyal friend who will bring endless joy and companionship, adopting from a shelter or rescue group means you are directly saving two lives: when you bring home a rescue pet you’re freeing up a space for another animal who needs a second chance at a happy life. You also support the fight against pet overpopulation. 

Caring for a companion animal goes far beyond providing food, water and shelter. It takes research and careful planning to bring the right pet into your home, and to make sure your lifestyle is the right one for your new pet.  But how do you know if it’s the right time for you to welcome a four-legged (or three-legged!) addition? If you are considering adopting a pet, take a look at these helpful adoption tips:

Get the whole family involved in the process
There’s an emotional connection that comes with selecting a pet – it may be the look on the pet’s face or the way he held out his paw, but it’s an emotional bond that usually begins when you first see or spend time with him. Choosing a pet is personal for most people, so it’s important to involve the whole family. A pet is a lifetime commitment so it’s also important to ensure that all your family members are on board with getting one.

Look into potential allergies
It is astonishing how many people are heartbroken that they have to return pets because they were unaware of their allergies. Be prepared beforehand and interact with cats or dogs to see if there could be an allergy issue.

Which pet is right for you?
Your personality and lifestyle, along with challenges such as space restrictions and amount of time spent at home, should be explored to determine what pet is right for your household. Ask shelter staff for guidance – they’re experts at making perfect matches! 

Understand the financial costs of a pet
Your personality and lifestyle, along with challenges such as space Calculate the cost of purchasing supplies and ongoing fees for your new pet such as food, treats, litter for cats, boarding costs, walking gear for dogs, yearly vet exams and vaccinations, as well as a contingency budget in case the pet becomes sick.

Make sure to research what is included with the adoption
Pets adopted from reputable rescue groups will come fully vetted for a small adoption fee. At TEARS Animal Rescue, we charge an adoption fee of R900 which includes initial vaccinations, sterilisation, deworming, tick and flea treatment, an ID tag and a microchip. It costs well over R2000 to get all that for the “free” kitten or puppy you found online.

Pets aren’t gifts
A pet can be the best gift in the world, and while surprises are great, giving a pet as a gift may be more of a surprise than someone is expecting – and it may not be appreciated. Don’t just give a pet as a gift to someone without first making sure they want a companion animal.

Some people might love animals but not have the time or the ability to care for one. If you want to give someone a pet, for Christmas or their birthday for instance, it’s best to offer paying the adoption fee so they can have the fun of picking – and being picked by – their new family member.

If you have young children, just accept that you’re the one who is going to be taking care of the pet
Children may promise to take full responsibility, and they’ll mean it with all their heart, but it’s just not going to happen, no matter how much we want it to. And constant battling with a child over the pet might build resentment. It’s important that children realise from an early age that a pet is a sentient being that requires gentle handling, proper feeding and a certain amount of clean up.

Children learn to love and respect all animals by having a pet in the family. Show them how it’s done and you’ll help your child become a better, kinder person.

Volunteer at an animal shelter
Through no fault of their own, so many rescued pets in shelters don’t know how to sell themselves to potential families and are sadly overlooked. Our best advice: join the shelter as a volunteer and spend time with the animals, getting to know them, taking them for walks or grooming them.

By spending more time at the shelter, you’re more likely to find the perfect pooch or kitty than doing a once-off tour around the shelter. And your time will be greatly rewarded with kitty cuddles and canine kisses from animals who need it most!

Adoption

Consider an adult or senior pet
While puppies and kittens are adorable, they require a lot of work, training and dedication so that they flourish into well-balanced adults. Consider adopting an older pet; there are so many young adult and senior pets in shelters who are looking for loving homes and they may adapt more easily to your home and be more conducive to your lifestyle.

Be open to suggestions: shelter staff know the animals in their care and can help you select the most suitable pet for your family and lifestyle.

Are you sure you’re ready to be a pet parent?
Owning a pet is a lifestyle and you’ll need to be able to dedicate time to exercising, socialising and going to training classes. When adopting, you are making a commitment to care for an animal for the rest of his life – that could mean 10 to 15 years for dogs and up to 20 years for cats.

Having a pet will impact future decisions like where you live and how often you travel and your home, garden and fence may require modifications. If you rent, you’ll need have to get your landlord’s permission. As you go through lifestyle changes such as moves, the birth of children and new jobs, your animal will remain a permanent part of your life. If circumstances change, will you still be able to care for your pet?

Unconditional love is waiting at an animal shelter near you! We really hope you’ll consider adopting your next dog or cat – the love they share is the greatest gift of all.

Click here to meet the adorable adoptables at TEARS Animal Rescue who are patiently waiting for their happy ever afters.

Source: TEARS Animal Rescue

Aspects to consider if you have an existing dog and are considering adoption

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dog

Aspects to consider if you have an existing dog and are considering adoption

When you are adopting and have an existing dog, it really is helpful to ask yourself the questions below – this will give you a greater chance of a successful adoption. 

We need to bear in mind, that if the adoption does not work out, not only will you feel terrible about this, each and every time a dog is sent back to the shelter, there is more physiological damage and stress, and the chances of the dog being successful adopted in the future are reduced. 

Additionally, our responsibility is always to our existing dog, and he/she must be considered first and foremost. 

The following is not mentioning the costs and training involved, however, these are aspects you need to take into consideration as well. 

  • If your existing dog is NOT sociable with other dogs, then rather do not even attempt an adoption, especially if there is any aggression involved. You can always contact a qualified behaviourist to help your dog, however, a dog such as this can learn to cope with other dogs when out for walks, but the chances of it accepting another dog in the home are very low. 
  • Some dogs will be happy with other dogs when out for a walk, however will not accept another dog into their home – this is more relevant in some breeds rather than others.
  • If you have an existing dog which is of the fighting breeds, or a cross of same, these dogs do much better as only dogs – if you are not sure, then rather get the help of a qualified behaviourist to discuss the possible match. Here is a link to our Compatibility Chart which will give you more knowledge to make an educated decision.
  • If you are getting a dog because you feel your dog is lonely, do ensure that it is getting sufficient physical, mental and sociable stimulation first of all. If not, do not expect the dogs to entertain themselves – you could possible end up with ‘double trouble’.
  • If you are getting another dog due to one dog dying and the existing dog being lonely, rather work on helping it to cope and get over the grief, before considering another dog. Here is a link to an article to help a dog that is not coping after losing its friend.
  • If there are any behaviour problems occurring, even if not serious one’s, it is far better to resolve same before thinking about adopting, as dogs often mimic one another’s behaviour, and you could end up with two dogs exhibiting the unacceptable behaviour. A common problem that often occurs when a second dog is adopted is resource guarding – of food, toys and objects and food – contact a behaviourist to resolve first and foremost. This new knowledge will allow you to ensure that you can train the new dog to avoid problems where resource guarding is concerned as well.
  • Ensure that the dog to be adopted is both dog and people friendly to avoid problems.
  • Consider the sex of the dogs. Your ideal match is one female and one male. Two males can get on well together, however the breeds of each have to be taken into account. Your very worst match, and one to be avoided at all costs, is having 2 females. The chances of problems arising is very real, especially around the 8 – 24 month period.
  • Consider the exercise requirements of both dogs. You don’t want two high energy dogs together, neither do you want a couch potato and a very active dog. Consider also if you have both the time, and energy, to take 2 dogs for walks daily and also if you can control them.
  • Think about the grooming aspects – if you are already spending time grooming your existing dog often, then perhaps a breed that requires less daily brushing would be a better fit.
  • If the existing dog does have any behaviour concerns, even one as small as jumping up against people, you would have to do the work to change this behaviour. The majority of behaviour problems found in shelter dogs can be easily changed, however there is no magic wand to wave – you have to do the work involved, and there is always the possibility that your existing dog may mimic same.
  • Think also of the breed from a point of view of how easily they can be trained – some breed are much harder to train than other, and you need to make sure your dog skills are sufficient.
  • If you already have a young puppy, rather wait until it is about 6 to 7 months of age before bringing in another dog. This will allow you the time to really bond and train the behaviour you want – one dog is always easier to train than two at the same time. Additionally, if you do bring in another puppy close in age to your existing pup, they do tend to bond to one another more than to the owner. Additionally, one pup tends to become more confident and the other less so, and this can end up at extremes. 
    If your existing dog has any physical challenges, or is a Golden Oldie, do speak to your vet to get their opinion as to whether getting another dog is an option.

After you have chosen your new dog, do get your existing dog to meet same, and always on neutral territory – this reduces the possibility of any resource guarding in the home. In order to help you have a success when you do take the new dog home, here is a link to an article that gives you the step by step procedure to follow – Introducing and new dog to a resident dog

 

Common Cat Hazards

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cat

Common Cat Hazards

Plants

Indoor and outdoor plants can pose a risk to your cat. Ingesting just a small piece of some common ornamental plants such as poinsettias could be enough to make a cat ill, and swallowing a sizable amount could prove fatal. Lilies are especially toxic to cats; they can cause life-threatening kidney failure if ingested even in tiny amounts.

Plants that are toxic for cats include (but are not limited to):

  • Poinsettias
  • Lilies
  • Mistletoe
  • Holly
  • Tulips
  • Foxglove
  • Philodendron
  • Amaryllis
  • Baby’s breath
  • Sweet William
  • Hydrangeas

Household Chemicals

Many of the chemicals around your house can present a hazard for your feline friends. Keep these materials in a place your cats can’t reach, and ensure any spills are cleaned up promptly. If you have an outdoor cat, take precautions when using these products in your yard.

Pesticides

  • Insecticides
  • Rodenticides

Garden products

  • Fertilizers
  • Weed killers
  • Molluscicides (snail baits and snail pellets)

Miscellaneous products

  • Ethylene glycol antifreeze
  • Paint thinner
  • Swimming pool chemicals
  • Household cleaners (including bleach, detergents, and disinfectants)

Toxic Foods

It’s tempting to give your beloved cat a treat of human food, but many of the things we enjoy are off-limits for our feline friends, including:

  • Grapes
  • Onions
  • Raisins
  • Avocados
  • Anything containing xylitol, an artificial sweetener
  • Chocolate

Medications

Human medications and flea treatments for dogs can be acutely toxic for cats. Remember: never give your cat medications without first consulting your veterinarian. Cats will often gobble up pills they find lying on tables or dropped on the floor, so be vigilant with your medications.

Some common causes of poisoning include:

  • Aspirin
  • Acetaminophen (Tylenol®)
  • Ibuprofen
  • Dietary supplements (vitamins)
  • Flea medication for dogs (Cats must not be allowed to come in contact with a treated dog for 24 hours)

Some Common Signs of Poisoning Include: 

  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Seizures
  • Blood in the stool/urine
  • Lethargy
  • Loss of appetite
  • Bruising
  • Nosebleeds
  • Irregular heartbeat
  • Inability to urinate
  • Difficulty breathing

How Quickly Will My Cat Become Ill?  

This depends upon the toxin involved. By the time an owner recognizes a problem, a cat may be at significant risk for serious health problems. For this reason, a prompt veterinary consultation is essential.

What Should I Do If I Think My Cat Has Ingested Something Toxic?  

Call your veterinarian immediately. If your vet is not available, try a local emergency veterinary clinic or animal poison control help hotline (see below).

If you are aware of the toxin that your cat was exposed to, obtain a sample or a label to bring to the veterinarian or to provide information to a help hotline.

IMPORTANT: DO NOT induce vomiting unless you are specifically directed to do so. Certain poisons can cause more damage during vomiting than if left in the stomach.

Source: Cornell University

How to Introduce Kids to Your Adopted Dog

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Kids

How to Introduce Kids to Your Adopted Dog

Hopefully your children and any other family member, who will have daily contact to your new dog has met the dog at the shelter and spent a little time with him or her getting acquainted.

Your children will naturally be very excited about getting a dog but it is very important that your dog is not crowded by your children or forced to interact with them when he arrives at home. Give him a chance to quietly investigate his new surroundings and let his excitement wear off a bit.

Allow the dog to explore the garden at his own pace and make sure that your children just let him be. A new game or toy might help them to keep their excitement under control. You could also bring him home while your children are at school or away.

Once Fluffy has investigated the area and seems more settled, give your children some nice small doggy treats. Allow them to call the dog and offer him the treats on a flat hand when he comes to them. Is the dog very shy throw the treats at his feet first to break the ice. A dog used to children might initiate contact. Praise and treat.

For the first two weeks ask your children to let the dog approach them rather than the other way around. Teach them not to go to him if he does not want to come to them. This will give him the time and space he needs to settle in and build up his confidence with them.

It’s a good idea to have an area of the house and/or garden that is the dog’s “den” where the children are not allowed to go.

Teach your children some important principles and make sure that all visiting kids comply as well.

To be safe DO NOT LEAVE CHILDREN AND DOGS UNSUPERVISED AT ANY TIME

A dog is not a toy. Give your child guidance when handling or picking up a dog.
Never allow a child to tease or torment any dog or puppy.

Dogs often do not like to be hugged, cuddled or picked up. You will have to find out gradually if your new dog accepts this.

Teach your children never to approach a dog whilst he is eating, sleeping or chewing on a bone / toy. Allocate a space to your dog where he can have some peace and teach your children not to disturb the dog there.

Ask them not to take toys (even things he might have stolen from them) away from him. Teach your dog a “drop it” command. Until then it’s up to the adults to retrieve the article, for example by swopping the stolen object with a treat or something he is allowed to have.

Avoid tugging games unless all family members can stop the game and safely take the toy away from the dog. Do not allow the dog to chase your children. Ball games are a much better option.

Teach your children to stroke a dog under the chin and throat or on his side rather than patting his head. Kids may stroke the dog once it is calm (sitting or standing). Ask the kids to stand slightly to the side and slowly stroke the chest. Stay away from the muzzle. Explain to them that the dog will be much calmer if it can see their hand and that if they try to stroke the top of his head or the back of his neck he will naturally look up to see where their hand has gone.

Explain to your children that they should not make direct eye contact with dogs or stare at them as they might misinterpret this as threatening.

Teach your children to immediately stop any interaction with any dog and slowly back away should he ever growl at them. No screaming, no fast movements.Children should be taught to “be a tree” or “be a hedgehog” if afraid of any dog.

Do not punish your dog for growling at your children. See it as his way of expressing himself and showing that he is uncomfortable with what is happening. Punishing him for growling might teach your dog not to give any warning signs before he bites.

If you are unsure please contact the shelter for further advice and help. Rather be safe.

Look out for signs from your dog that could indicate uneasiness or anxiety e.g. turning the head away, averting the gaze, lip licking, yawning, sitting down – sometimes with his back turned towards you, ears held back, sniffing the ground, tail tugged between the legs…

Remember that high pitched squeals of excited children and running can upset a dog unfamiliar to kids or could trigger a chase response. Dogs with strong herding instincts might nip at the ankles. Be ready to step in and calm down the situation before things get out of hand.

As your dog settles in and gets confident with everybody, involve your children in your daily routines with your dog, e.g. grooming, training, feeding…

A dog can be a wonderful addition to any family.

Enjoy your new family dog and enjoy watching your children having fun with their new friend.

Source: Hermanus Animal Welfare