|
THE CASE AGAINST TABLE
SCRAPS
So, there you are at the dinner table, when your pet
comes nosing around. It knows you have food -- and it believes it should
get at least a sample. Sure, it's tempting, but here's a couple of
reasons to think before you pass down that tasty morsel.
1. First, of course, it reinforces begging behavior in your pet, which
is not the most attractive thing a pet can do.
2. It also reinforces the idea in your pet that there's an alternative
to its own food -- you may be unintentionally creating a picky eater.
3. What's good for you may not be good for your pet. This is especially
true at dessert time, when chocolate is around: Chocolate is poison to
pets.
4. Finally, it's extra calories your pet probably doesn't need.
Your pet may feel indignant that it's not getting sampling privileges,
but in the end, it's better for everyone.
3 WAYS TO BEAT THE HEAT
Before the dog days of summer arrive, take steps to help
your pets beat the heat. Unlike people, cats and dogs have very few
"sweat" glands. They "sweat" by panting, but often
this isn't enough to keep them comfortable when the mercury rises.
Here's how you can help:
1. Keep your pet's water bowl filled at all times. Put out a second bowl
in case the first gets knocked over.
2. Never leave your pet in a parked car.
3. Direct sunshine can raise your pet's body temperature quickly so give
him or her a sheltered place to cool off--a porch, an umbrella or a
shade tree can all provide protection. |
PETS AND AIR TRAVEL
Sometimes, a pet's gotta fly -- and if the pet's not a
bird, that usually means by air freight. Before the flight, here's what
you're required to do:
1. Most states require a health certificate for pets traveling by air,
so stop by the vet and get that certificate.
2. Pets also have to be a certain age to travel: No younger than eight
weeks old. Also, they have to have been weaned for at least five days.
3. You're required to provide your pet with enough food and water for
the trip; if it's going to be a long trip, you'll also probably be
required to provide detailed instructions about feeding and medication.
A RECIPE TO PREVENT
ACCIDENTS
Even the best trained pets may have occasional accidents
in the house, due to illness, a change in routine, or other factors. But
what can you do to keep accidents from recurring? Experts say that when
dogs or cats can smell where they've urinated before, they're more
likely to return to the same spot. Discourage this by cleaning the area
thoroughly with the following:
--one quarter cup of white vinegar
--a squirt of liquid detergent
--one quart of warm water
Scrub the area thoroughly with this mixture and then apply an
odor-masking product like Urine Kleen, Stainaway or Nature's Miracle |
