The Pet Guardian, LLC

This Party's Going to the Dogs!

2011-05-28T16:16:00.017-06:00

This time last year, Scott and I knew we were going to lose our "Princess Autumn Bell" to a rare form of cancer: bile-ductular carcinoma, diagnosed in less than 2 percent of dogs. To this day I can't speak Autumn's name in a sentence without wanting to cry. Watching a beloved dog, a family member, wasting away and dying from cancer, knowing there's absolutely nothing you can do, is one of the worst experiences any dog parent can ever experience.

Three years ago I decided to get on board with Morris Animal Foundation's Canine Cancer Campaign. I thought it would be a "fun" and "good" thing to do. Well, now I'm on a personal mission to help fund research to find a cure for canine cancer. There is nothing "fun" and "good" about cancer, in ourselves as humans, and in our pets.

One in four dogs will die from cancer, the No.1 killer in dogs over the age of 2. If you share your life with dogs, you WILL lose one dog, if not many more, from cancer. Ten years ago my dog Niki was diagnosed with hemangiosarcoma, so Autumn's death was not the first time canine cancer has touched my life.

My friend Kelly Smith is a Scentsy Independent Consultant. Kelly has a huge heart and began her Scentsy business in memory of her mother, Anne, who died suddenly last year from pancreatic cancer. I'm so proud to know Kelly and so excited that Kelly's generously offered to donate 40% of her commissions to help me raise funds for research to find a cure for canine cancer. So not only are you helping the dogs, you're helping to find a cure for pancreatic cancer!

Now through July 31st, purchase Scentsy candle products through our online Angels for Autumn party, and have a portion of the sales proceeds donated to Morris Animal Foundation's Canine Cancer Campaign.

Please cross-post to all your dog-loving friends and family members and be an angel for all the dogs! Thank you all so much for your love and support! ♥

Animal Abuse: Let's Get A Plan In Place To Stop It

2011-02-15T11:58:00.047-07:00

I feel abuse of animals is a learned behavior. Children grow up to be animal abusers because of what they're taught by peers, by their parents, or what they are NOT taught at home or in school. They're taught by seeing on TV that a pro football player like Michael Vick can serve a jail sentence for abuse but then get rewarded by a multimillion-dollar contract to play football again.

I feel since education at home may be lacking, the already underpaid and overworked teachers need to take on some of the task of educating their students, and parents need to contribute to the task of teaching their children that abusing animals is NOT okay.

How do teachers and parents begin to even find humane education resources and tools? A good start is by visiting The Humane Society Web site.

Here parents and teachers can learn how to educate kids, engage teenagers, inspire teens, receive Humane Educator training, receive lesson plans, and more.

Humane Educators are sometimes part of your local county's government. You can make an appointment with the humane education department of the county to pay a visit to an elementary school at no, or very little, cost.

Meanwhile, for the home, find some very inexpensive ways of engaging and teaching children how to care for and be kind to dogs, cats, and wildlife with these Humane Education Activity and Coloring Books, which will help teach humane values, create empathy, and can even inspire compassionate action.

Microchipping Your Pet and Cancer Risks?

2011-01-13T09:17:00.011-07:00

ChipMeNot.org is one of several Web sites these days to warn pet owners and the general public about the possible associated dangers of microchip implants in pets.

Learn the possible risks of microchipping your pets, facts, scientific evidence, case studies, legislation regarding microchipping, how to report a suspected or known cancer case associated with microchipping, and more at this
Animal Adverse Microchip Reactions site.

Also read a most excellent article by The Dog Place.org on the medical reasons not to microchip your pet and why you should please consider NOT doing so.

Sure, microchips can sometimes help recover your lost pet, but you need to be aware of the possible medical implications involved.

Please know what you're dealing with BEFORE agreeing to let anyone microchip your pet! Nothing in this world is 100% safe. You should always know all possible adverse risks and reactions of anything you expose yourself and your pets to. Be safe, not sorry!

Rainbow Bridge Poem

2010-12-23T13:15:00.004-07:00

Just this side of Heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.

When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable. All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster...

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together...

~ Author Unknown

Sarah's Angels Pet With Angel Keepsakes

2010-12-23T12:50:00.021-07:00

When you're a pet parent, you feel like your pet is an angel. When that pet dies, your pet becomes an angel in Heaven that you know.

Losing an animal companion is one of the most stressful and heart-breaking events one can experience in life. When the beautiful spirit of a beloved pet has gone to the Rainbow Bridge the devastating grief and/or guilt one may feel can be overwhelming. I know. I've been there and understand.

Sarah's Angels Collectibles always make a meaningful sympathy gift for a pet parent. Animal-angel keepsake gifts are hard to find. Sarah's Angels figurines will always be cherished and will provide a source of comfort for years to come for the pet parent's grieving heart.

I like being surrounded by the memories of my angel dogs with their pictures and with my Sarah's Angels figurines. Read how I am Displaying Sarah's Angels Collection in my home.

Rachael Hale Pet Lover Ecards

2010-12-22T12:33:00.005-07:00

When you want to send an electronic greeting card to an animal loving friend or loved one, check out the free ecards from Rachael Hale. These ecards include friendship, sympathy, marriage, Christmas, birthday, and more.

The Rachael Hale e-cards are so cute. Check them out. You're going to love them.

How to Make a Dog Cookie Arrangement

2010-12-22T10:48:00.029-07:00

This past summer I created my Bow Wow Blooming Cookies arrangement for a friend's dog who was getting ready to go through obedience training. Like a lot of people, I don't have time to bake, but I wanted to create a memorable dog cookie bouquet.

Here are the materials I used that you will also use to create this unique dog cookie "flower" arrangement. Remember, all the goodies in this arrangement are for the dog!

1. Paw print Snapware dog treats container purchased at a local Petsmart.

2. Small organic bone-shaped dog training treats purchased at a local pet spa boutique. Purchase a big enough box or bag to fill the entire inside of the Snapware container with the training treats.

3. Premade organic dog cookies, as pictured here, purchased at a local pet spa boutique. You can purchase premade cookies in many different shapes and sizes and are limited only by your imagination.

4. Tissue paper in various colors to match the dog cookies. As this was a summer arrangement, I used two tones of several sheets of green tissue paper.

5. Floral foam purchased at a local craft store.

6. Wilson lollipop covers (or cellophane bags) purchased at a local craft store. Check the baking aisle for the appropriate size clear cellophane bags you need AFTER you've purchased the dog cookies.

7. Extra-long Wilson lollipop sticks purchased at a local craft store. (These can be trimmed down to the appropriate height to keep the dog cookies above the top of the container yet should be able to securely fit into the floral foam.)

8. Green cloth ribbon, purchased at a local craft store. This ribbon is used to tie the cellophane bag at the base of the cookie to the stick and is used as a decoration.

9. Optional print cellophane used like the tissue paper for a decorative accent. The paw print cellophane is what I use in my gift shop for wrapping pet gift baskets and what I used here, but it cannot be found in a craft store.

10. Clear cellophane tape.

11. Decorative cloth ribbon tied into a bow to cover the lid of the Snapware container.

To start, cut a chunk of the floral foam with a knife (to fit in the center of the container) and wrap the foam in cellophane like it is a present. Wrapping the foam in cellophane protects the treats from the foam. This chunk of floral foam is then taped on its bottom to the middle of the inside of the Snapware container. (Don't worry if the foam is somewhat wobbly as once the cookie stems are placed into it and the treats added to fill the container, the foam will stay in place.)

Once the floral foam is secure at the bottom of the container, add enough of the small dog bone treats to fill the bottom sides of the container to meet the top edge of the floral foam. As you add each cookie stem, add treats to cover the cookie stems, and so on until all cookie stems are arranged the way you want them, secure in the foam, and treats fill the entire container up to where the bottom of the lid meets the container. Be sure as you're gradually adding the treats that you check all sides of the container to make sure there are no gaps. You don't want to see the cookie stems.

Take each sheet of tissue paper, gather it as per the video, and add the sheets of tissue paper between each cookie stem. Push the bottom edge of the tissue into the dog treats.

Watch this YouTube video by Karen's Cookies and see just how easy it is to make your own dog cookie arrangement. The video will fill in the gaps that I missed here.

You may use any type of container or mug and use however many cookies you desire. Again, just use your imagination and create something spectacular and one-of-a-kind!

Exercise and Workouts for Healthy Dogs

2010-12-21T12:16:00.007-07:00

"With about 45% of U.S. dogs suffering from obesity, according to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, experts are urging canine owners to provide their pets with regular exercise and workouts especially during the holidays. Experts recommend consulting a veterinarian about safe workout routines to avoid the risk of overworking dogs."

Just because you may have a backyard that your dogs can roam in, that does not constitute exercise.

Remember: Some exercise is better than no exercise. Not only is it good for your pets, it is good for you!

Read our post about pet obesity also posted this date. Good food and exercise go hand in hand when it comes to keeping our pets in optimal health and extending their life spans.

Photo courtesy of OregonLive.com

Pet obesity: Ailments linked to dogs' weights are increasing - El Paso Times

2010-12-21T12:04:00.009-07:00

If you don't ever want to read an article or a book on pet nutrition and the proper feeding of your pets, please read this one. Whether you know it or not, you could be setting your pet up for disease and a shorter life span.

How much do you love your pet? You want your pet with you as long as possible, right? You want to cut down on vet bills, right? Then pay attention to what this article has to say and make changes NOW!

Pawprints Left By You Memorial Plaque With Easel

2010-12-10T21:37:00.022-07:00

There have been so many people I know who have lost a pet this year. Today a friend of mine lost her dog to cancer.

So many of us who have gone through the anguish of losing a pet know that purchasing little gifts of remembrance for ourselves and loved ones helps the healing process. When I saw this lovely sentiment on several pet memorial gifts, I quickly identified with it and knew I would have to have these gifts for not only myself, but my customers. Whoever poured their heart out and wrote this beautiful message is someone I completely identify with. They have experienced the pain that I and so many others have felt upon the death of a cherished furry family member.

The Pawprints Left By You Memorial Plaque is an outpouring of grief and love felt for a beloved pet after he's gone to the Rainbow Bridge. This 5" x 7" heartfelt wooden plaque contains the following sentiment:

"Pawprints Left By You . . .
You no longer greet me,
As I walk through the door.
You're not there to make me smile,
To make me laugh anymore.
Life seems quiet without you,
You were far more than a pet.
You were a family member, a friend
. . . a loving soul I'll never forget.
It will take time to heal -
For the silence to go away.
I still listen for you,
And miss you every day.
You were such a great companion,
Constant, loyal and true.
My heart will always wear,
the pawprints left by you.

The Pawprints Left By You Memorial Plaque is available for purchase at the Kindred Spirits Gift Shop. A matching Pawprints Left By You Memorial Picture Frame and Pawprints Memorial Photo Ornament is also available for purchase.

Pet Sympathy Cards and Token Gifts

2010-12-08T17:08:00.020-07:00

When looking for a pet sympathy gift that is inexpensive but super meaningful, send an Angel Pet Memory Token with a beautiful pet sympathy card.

The Kindred Spirits Gift Shop has Angel Pet Memory Tokens that serve as a simple little reminder of an angel cat or angel dog who has passed on to the Rainbow Bridge. The little pewter tokens come in a silver linen pillow box and are engraved with one of the following sweet sentiments:

* My angel on earth, now you are an angel in Heaven - for cat and dog guardians
* You've left paw prints in my heart forever - for cat and dog guardians
* You have left my life, but you will never leave my heart - for cat and dog guardians
* Run free now, go play with the angels - for cat and dog guardians

Many pet guardians create a memorial table with the beloved pet's picture in a beautiful photo frame, a memory box filled with the pet's collar and tags, notes from the heart written by the pet guardian to the angel pet, as well as cards and notes from family and friends.

Letting a loved one know they're not alone grieving a lost pet is just as important as acknowledging the death of a human family member. Your tokens of remembrance will soothe a broken heart, show your love, support and encouragement, and give comfort that will forever be cherished by your gift recipient.

Let it Snow Christmas Family Gift Basket

2010-12-07T22:03:00.019-07:00

The Let it Snow Christmas Family Gift Basket features Old Dog and the Christmas Wish, the beautifully written and illustrated book by author Christine Davis.

It is Christmas Eve, and an old dog lies chained to a tree, alone and forgotten. Beyond the fence something is about to happen that will awaken the strong spirit that still runs deep within his tired old bones. Whispers of a Christmas wish will reach the heavens, and suddenly anything is possible on this very special night.

Filled with beautiful illustrations, this simple story celebrates the true joys of the Christmas season. Animal lovers will want to make this magical book part of their holiday tradition, reading it aloud on Christmas Eve to two-legged AND four-legged members of the family.

Old Dog and the Christmas Wish by Christine Davis and Lighthearted Press is for anyone who believes in Christmas miracles ... and for anyone who is not quite certain.

The Let it Snow Christmas Family Gift Basket is filled with snacks and winterberry tea for the whole family to enjoy. Purchase it in the Kindred Spirits Gift Shop to arrive in time for Christmas.

Holiday Gifts and Gift Baskets for Pet Lovers

2010-12-07T08:48:00.010-07:00

What kind of gifts do you give to the dog and cat lover during the holidays? You give gifts that will be enjoyed by the beloved pet -- like all-natural and organic gourmet treats and toys -- and also pet lover keepsake gifts that will be enjoyed by the dog and cat guardian for years to come. Pet lover gift baskets are always a hit during the holidays because they stand out among the gifts given by others.

Ali, the cat, is pictured here with our Animal House Gift Basket. This gift basket was a custom design for a house full of cats and dogs. Ali's mom barely got the gift basket out of the box when Ali started to tear into it to get ahold of her salmon and catnip treats. So fun!

When you want to make an impression on your pet loving family and friends this holiday season, order your Pet Lover Gifts and Gift Baskets from the Kindred Spirits Gift Shop and give your loved ones and their furry friends something to bark and meow about! Custom gift basket orders are welcome here!

Rainbow Bridge Pet Sympathy Ornament

2010-12-05T17:27:00.008-07:00

When someone you know and love is grieving the death of their beloved pet, letting them know you remember, you care, is easy to do with the Rainbow Bridge Pewter Pet Photo Ornament. This pet sympathy ornament makes a great, inexpensive gift year round, and not just during the holidays.

The Rainbow Bridge Pewter Pet Photo Ornament will find a special place on a Christmas tree or displayed as a year-round memento of the beloved animal companion who is waiting for his master at the Rainbow Bridge. This sweet token of remembrance includes a white ribbon for hanging and holds a 1.75" photo of the forever-cherished furry friend. "We'll Meet You At The Bridge" is engraved beneath the photo opening. This beautiful ornament comes in a clear gift box with the Rainbow Bridge poem printed on the box.

The Kindred Spirits Gift Shop, LLC has an outstanding selection of pet sympathy gifts from which to choose if you would like to send a more substantial gift. Custom orders are always welcome here.

Healing After the Death of a Pet

2010-12-05T15:28:00.020-07:00

I've had quite an absence here since my last blog posting about "Knowing When It's Time." July 23, 2010, our beautiful Golden Retriever, Autumn, passed on to the Rainbow Bridge. Autumn died of a rare form of cancer, bile ductular carcinoma. I won't share with you her signs and symptoms, but I suspected cancer even before the vet did.

Some of us are so in tune with our pets, just as we are with our own children. Making the decision to have Autumn put to sleep was heartbreaking and, of course, extremely difficult. We kept waiting for Autumn to "let us know" when it was time, and she definitely did. She was such a sweet soul and is terribly missed. Are we completely healed from our grief? No. Does one ever heal from the death of a pet? I don't think so.

What do you do when your pet dies, after you crawl into a ball and sob for however many days, weeks, and months (years?) you need to in order to grieve? My feeling is you try to open your heart again, as soon as you can, to another furry friend. There are so many wonderful, needy animals in this world that are waiting to be loved, waiting to go to their Forever Home, waiting to open their hearts to YOU.

On Halloween, my least favorite holiday, we brought home Heidi, born on 9/8/10. We had not really been looking for another dog. Some of you know how it is: It happens when "it's time."

We are enjoying opening our hearts again to another furry family member, laughing over her puppy antics, and watching this little spirit grow into another sweet Golden Retriever with a completely different personality than I've ever experienced with any dog my whole life.

Meet Heidi, the dog who is helping all of us in this household heal. We think Autumn would approve and would love her just as much as we do. I'll never view Halloween the same way, thanks to Heidi. It's a special day for me now.

The Pet Lover's Struggle - Knowing When It's Time

2010-03-06T20:14:00.010-07:00

My boyfriend and I just returned from a walk with our three dogs, one of whom is eight and a half years old, a Golden retriever named Autumn. Autumn has not been in the best of health since she received vaccines two years ago, unbeknownst to me. Autumn has a horrible skin condition called canine ichthyosis (fish scale disease). We are unable to put weight on her, and she cannot go on long walks. She is hypothyroid, but otherwise, all the tests run on her have come back normal. Our vet is trying vitamin A in her food twice a day to see if it will improve her skin condition as nothing else is working.

Autumn used to have the most beautiful thick coat and the sweetest disposition. She's still a sweet girl, but it seems her real joy in life is when she can have something else to eat. During tonight's walk under a clear sky in nice, cool weather, I was wondering how much time she will be with us on this earth. This makes me very sad.

Click the title of this article and read one of the best articles I've read about saying goodbye to our pets when it's time, written by Dr. Marty Becker and Gina Spadafori. I hope I won't be referring back to it anytime soon.

Need a Responsible Pet Sitter?

2010-02-28T11:20:00.012-07:00

Afraid to leave for a vacation or even for work and wonder who's watching your pet?

The "Who's watching your Pet?" video on the Pet Sitters International Web site had me laughing. But when it comes to the care and treatment of your pets, finding a responsible pet sitter is no laughing matter. After all, you want to come home to find a happy and healthy pet.

Pet Sitters International is the most highly recognized advocate for and the most respected authority on pet sitters throughout the world. If you don't already have a responsible family member or pet sitter whom you can completely trust with your pets while you're away from home, here's a good source you can look to to start to find a responsible, insured, and bonded pet sitter in your area.

Click the title link and watch the video on the Pet Sitters International site. Laugh there so you won't cry later with the wrong choice of a "pet sitter."

2010-02-27T19:03:00.046-07:00

How to Brush Your Dog's Teeth

The number one problem seen in dogs by veterinarians is dental disease.

Your dog's teeth need to be kept clean, for dental hygiene, to prevent "dog breath," to prevent organ dysfunction, and to prevent a shortened lifespan.

Click on the title and watch a great short video on how to brush your dog's teeth, from dog trainer Mike D'Abruzzo and the lovely Tallulah.

2010-02-18T13:05:00.070-07:00

Many of our customers and friends have asked where we get our recipes for our dogs' meals and doggie treats. Some we've created ourselves and have posted the recipes on our blog and our The Pet Guardian, LLC Facebook page, but here's THE best dog biscuit cookbook you'll want to add to your library of cookbooks and one cookbook that you will actually use again and again: The Organic Dog Biscuit Cookbook by Bubba Rose Biscuit Company.

When we first purchased our copy of this organic dog biscuit cookbook filled with "over 100 'tail wagging' recipes," we spent two hours reading not only the recipes, but all the great nutritional tips provided with each. So not only will you be able to prepare delicious organic, wholesome treats for your pampered pup, you'll learn why the ingredients are so good for him.

Virtually all the ingredients to stock your refrigerator and pantry can be found at King Soopers, Kroger, and/or natural food stores like Whole Foods. We recommend you grab your Post-it notes because you won't know which dog treat you'll want to prepare first!

While this cookbook mostly uses organic ingredients, of course you can use regular eggs, or use pureed carrots or celery, etc., that you can purchase in the baby food aisle. By keeping it simple, you'll enjoy baking more often, which is really the point: serving the best all-natural homemade treats you can for your best buddy!

Don't want to spend the time cutting out treats with a dog bone cookie cutter? Spoon the mix into a baking pan and bake as if baking a pan of brownies. Cut the treats into small squares when the pan has cooled. Trust me: your dog doesn't care about the presentation.

It is really so simple and easy to bake nutritiously for your dog. The Organic Dog Biscuit Cookbook by Bubba Rose Biscuit Company leaves you no excuse not to be able to do so.

Famous Facebook Dog Sparks a Cross-Country Rescue and New Leash on life

2010-02-07T22:34:00.008-07:00

Famous "Facebook Dog Pic" sparks a cross-country rescue and new leash on life

Posted using ShareThis

Idiot Vet's Office in Olathe, Kansas Loving ProHeart 6

2010-02-05T18:10:00.002-07:00

To the idiot vet's office in Olathe, Kansas, that thinks they can speak for the *reported* 5,500 dogs who were affected and the *reported* 500+ dogs who died from ProHeart 6 when it was first on the market in full force and won't allow for comments to be posted to their article:

Unless these idiots were in all the thousands of homes of all the pet guardians whose dogs were affected and/or died from ProHeart 6 to "other disease processes," they need to shut their pie hole. I know they weren't in my household!

Here's a quick summary of what happened in my home:

1. One dog, ~ 4 years old; healthy; nothing but ProHeart 6 shot given. Dead in less than two months from immune mediated hemolytic anemia.

2. One dog, 2 years old; healthy; nothing but ProHeart 6 shot given. Survived with a compromised immune system and on medication for life.

3. One dog, ~ 11 years old; healthy; ProHeart 6 shot given in conjunction with vaccines (vaccines were supposed to be "safe" when given in conjunction with ProHeart 6). Dead in less than four months.

What the idiot vet in Colorado never mentioned to me in the first place was that senior dogs don't need any vaccines or any of this CRAP!

Buyer beware as it appears the poison will be back on the market in full force soon. If you need heartworm "prevention" for your dogs, stick with the oral methods that have been on the market for over 20 years. At least if your dog has an adverse reaction, the drug will be out of the dog's system in a matter of days.

Once the ProHeart 6 shot has been given, it permeates all the body's organs in 24 hours. The chemicals are there to STAY.

This is NOTHING BUT A MONEY-MAKER FOR THE MANUFACTURER AND THE VETS. See our previous note about if you need reminders giving your dogs their medications or heartworm "preventatives." The manufacturer of ProHeart 6 will be preying on your inability to remember to give your dogs their heartworm "prevention."

ASPCA's Top 10 Poisons of 2009

2010-01-29T07:46:00.009-07:00

Great post on Paw Nation! It's not just about trouble-making pets eating or getting into something they shouldn't. A lot of what you'll see in the ASPCA's Top 10 Poisons of 2009 are man-made causes and errors on the part of us humans.

For instance, if you wouldn't walk on your lawn after applying fertilizer, why would you allow your pets to? The same with newly cleaned carpets and freshly mopped floors (unless only water is used to clean them).

If you wouldn't apply toxic chemicals on your skin and allow them to seep into your body through your skin's pores, why would you apply them to your pets' skin and fur? Spot-on flea and tick products and even flea and tick shampoos can be more dangerous to your pets than you think. They can cause serious and sometimes irreparable medical issues, including neurological problems and even death. They can cause chemical burns so severe that your pet's burnt skin needs to be surgically removed, with the good skin and fur sewn back together.

Click the above link from Paw Nation and take the time to learn more about what can harm your pets in and around your home. Be informed, not sorry!

E-mail Service to Remind You When to Give Dog Medications

2010-01-24T15:50:00.012-07:00

In case you forget, RemindMyPet.com is a service of Novartis Animal Health to remind you to give medications to your dogs. It's an electronic tap on the shoulder, if you will.

"The idea is to hound owners into doing what the veterinarian said. It's easy to forget what the veterinarian said. It's easy to forget when to give monthly treatments and preventives. An American Animal Hospital Association survey, for example, showed that less than half of dogs got their heartworm prevention medication as recommended. It's even easier to quit giving medications such as antibiotics when a dog seems well again, even though the drug is still needed."

The service is free. Your personal information is not supposed to be sold or distributed. You can sign up at www.remindmypet.com.

For all of you who give your dogs heartworm "prevention," here is now no excuse for forgetting and another reason for not EVER getting your dogs the ProHeart 6 injection just because it's "convenient"!

A Pet's Ten Commandments

2009-12-27T23:58:00.006-07:00

1. My life is likely to last 10-15 years. Any separation from you is likely to be painful.

2. Give me time to understand what you want of me.

3. Place your trust in me. It is crucial for my well-being.

4. Don't be angry with me for long and don't lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your friends, your entertainment, but I have only you.

5. Talk to me. Even if I don't understand your words, I do understand your voice when speaking to me.

6. Be aware that however you treat me, I will never forget it.

7. Before you hit me, before you strike me, remember that I could hurt you, and yet, I choose not to bite you.

8. Before you scold me for being lazy or uncooperative, ask yourself if something might be bothering me. Perhaps I'm not getting the right food, I have been in the sun too long, or my heart might be getting old or weak.

9. Please take care of me when I grow old. You, too, will grow old.

10. On the ultimate difficult journey, go with me, please. Never say you can't bear to watch. Don't make me face this alone. Everything is easier for me if you are there, because I love you so.

~ Take a moment today to thank God for your pets. Enjoy and take good care of them. Life would be a much duller, less joyful experience without God's critters.

~ Now, please pass this on to other pet guardians. We do not have to wait for Heaven to be surrounded by hope, love, and joyfulness. It is here on earth and has four legs!

Animal shelters advise against pets as surprise gifts Idaho Press-Tribune

2009-12-23T10:24:00.004-07:00

Animal shelters advise against pets as surprise gifts Idaho Press-Tribune Please don't give pets for Christmas gifts! We love the idea of gift cards to a shelter where someone can adopt their own pet, in their own time, IF they've already made the decision of providing a pet their FOREVER home.

Superior Dog Health Magazines

2009-12-06T11:44:00.012-07:00

If you're looking for superior, no-nonsense holistic dog health monthly and quarterly publications, you need look no further than The Whole Dog Journal and The American Dog Magazine.

Two things we really love (among others) about The Whole Dog Journal is their nonbiased dog food reviews and also the fact that they don't accept commercial advertising. This means you get to read from cover to cover highly relevant and informative content about the health and welfare of your dog. We will tell you now: You will want to retain every issue and refer back to it from time to time!

The Whole Dog Journal, while not a thick publication, costs about $1.67 an issue ($20 a year) -- check Amazon for their subscription price, too -- and comes with a 90-day risk-free guarantee. But we guarantee you won't be wanting your money back!

The Pet Guardian also loves The American Dog Magazine. While this is a new subscription for us, we like their ability to get right down to the nitty-gritty about pets, lies, and legislation. You will read articles about socializing and training your dog, nutrition, and lifestyle issues for yourself, your family, and your dog. We look forward to receiving this magazine on a quarterly basis and know you will, too.

Our customers with the Kindred Spirits Gift Shop know that we like "giving back." Well, so does The American Dog Magazine. When customers subscribe to the magazine (a one-year subscription is $20), the customer just has to add their favorite animal charity in the charity box upon checkout, and American Dog will donate 100% of the subscription profits to that charity. That means $8 per subscription is going to the animal charity of your choice. How great is that?

Which pet publications do you like? And cat lovers, please, let's hear from you!

Make 2010 the year you learn more and improve upon your dog's health. The Whole Dog Journal and The American Dog Magazine are two ways you can do just that.

Disclaimer: These are unsolicited, unpaid-for "advertisements" by The Pet Guardian. We want our readers informed and capable of providing the BEST in overall health care for their dogs.

Help with Vet Bills

2009-11-14T09:11:00.019-07:00

When faced with a life-or-death crisis for your family pet, what would you do? Would you turn to friends and relatives and beg for financial assistance?

Read Jan Rasmusen's article Help with Vet Bills and learn of some organizations that may be able to assist you during your -- and your pet's -- time of need.

I wish I had known I had some options when faced with my dogs' health crises many years ago. Thankfully, I had a good friend who gave me a short-term loan as well as an employer who advanced my commissions. In spite of my extremely costly efforts to save my dogs, they still passed on to the Rainbow Bridge.

It helps to be prepared and be assured some help can be there for you in your time of need. Read Jan's article and print it out for safekeeping. Hopefully you will never find yourself needing to use it, but being forewarned can help relieve the stress and worry when you can be spending time with and loving your furry friend.

Voluntary Recall: Premium Edge Cat Food - FDA Alert

2009-10-20T13:33:00.016-06:00

These "pet food" recalls can be a very scary thing, and, as guardians, you really need to be aware of what's in the "food" you feed your pets.

Feed your cats (and all pets) the best food you can possibly afford. If you don't pay up front, so to speak, you will most surely pay later with vet bills.

If you are considering preparing a homemade diet for your cat, live in the U.S., and have access to a VCR, The Pet Guardian, LLC will send you a FREE VHS tape to learn just how simple it can be to prepare your cat's food. We will even pay for shipping. To take us up on our offer, please contact us through e-mail at jean@thepetguardian.com.

With the 45-minute video "Save Your Cat: Nourish Her the Way She's Built to Eat," you will

* Learn how cats are built to eat
* Learn why homemade raw food is best
* See how to make a simple, well-balanced, homemade diet
* Learn valuable tips to transition cats to new food
* Learn in 1/2 hour per week, make and store enough food for one week's meals

Hopefully none of our readers are feeding their cats this brand of food. Buyer beware!

http://www.fda.gov/AnimalVeterinary/NewsEvents/CVMUpdates/ucm187218.htm

Zucchini "Mutt-fins"

2009-10-16T15:30:00.011-06:00

Your dogs will enjoy this treat as much as you do and will leave them begging for more!

All ingredients can be found at your grocery store. If you can't find oat flour, check the cereal aisle, where you will also find oat bran.

Use organic ingredients whenever possible.

2 cups oat flour
2 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. cinnamon
3 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla
3/4 cup honey
2 cups pureed zucchini (or zucchini/yellow squash, equal to two large vegetables)
1/4 cup safflower oil
1/4 cup raw or roasted shelled sunflower seeds
4.3 oz. bag of Hormel Real Crumbled Bacon (optional)

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Slice and puree zucchini in a food processor.

Combine all ingredients together and mix thoroughly. Spoon into muffin pan with cupcake papers placed in it. Spoon mixture evenly into the pan close to the top. (The mix will not rise very much.)

Bake 30-35 minutes. "Mutt-fins" are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Remove from the oven and let cool completely on a wire rack. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Makes 15-16 treats.

No-Cost Way to Help Shelter Animals

2009-10-12T10:42:00.007-06:00

The Pet Guardian endeavors to pass on information that can make the difference in the health and welfare of animals. One of our favorite sites is The Animal Rescue Site.

According to their Web site, "The Animal Rescue Site provides a feel-good way to help promote awareness and prevent rescued animal deaths every day — through easy and quick online activities." The Animal Rescue Site "focuses the power of the Internet on a specific need — providing food for some of the 27 million unwanted animals given to shelters in the U.S. every year. Over 10 million animals are put to death every year in the U.S. alone because they are abandoned and unwanted.

"Each click on the purple "Click Here to Give - it's FREE" button at The Animal Rescue Site provides food and care for a rescued animal living in a shelter or sanctuary. Funding for food and care is paid by site sponsors and distributed to animals in need at the Fund for Animals' renowned animal sanctuaries (including Cleveland Amory Black Beauty Ranch in Texas and the Wildlife Rehabilitation Center in California), pet shelters supported by the Petfinder Foundation, North Shore Animal League, and other worthy animal care facilities supported by the GreaterGood.org foundation."

100% of sponsor advertising fees goes to The Animal Rescue Site's charitable partners.

You can sign up on The Animal Rescue Site to receive daily reminder e-mails to click and give help and hope to those most in need. You can also purchase pet-themed gift items in their store, purchases which provide even more bowls of free food for needy animals.

Copy this link into your browser to sign up and receive a reminder every day from The Animal Rescue Site to click and provide free food for the animals. http://www.theanimalrescuesite.com/clickToGive/home.faces?siteId=3&ThirdPartyClicks=ERA_101209_ARS

Like us, we hope you will make it a habit to click daily. It only takes a few moments to click, but remember: Every day counts in the life of a rescued animal.

Thank you for helping to make this world a better friend for our furry friends!

Chicken Stew for Dogs

2009-10-11T17:40:00.009-06:00

You'll want to prepare our chicken stew for dogs and serve it year-round. It's guaranteed to make your dogs go crazy with anticipation for dinnertime. And it's so darn easy to make and should take you only about 10 minutes to throw all the ingredients together!

There's no measuring of ingredients or real work involved. We have medium to large dogs in our household, so we don't cut the meat. Of course, you should cut the meat if you're cooking for small dogs.

* Chicken hearts and gizzards (two to four packs)
* Boneless skinless chicken thighs (large, family-sized pack)
* Chicken livers (two small tubs) - optional
* Fresh or frozen broccoli, cauliflower, zucchini, carrot blend
* Fresh or small package of frozen french-style green beans
* Small or large package of frozen chopped spinach (add the amount you desire)
* Cut sweet potatoes (can buy fresh and already cut and ready to use) - optional
* One cut fresh apple minus core and seeds (optional)
* Diced celery (optional)
* Two 28-ounce cans of pealed, diced tomatoes (use low sodium brands, if possible)
* Dried (or fresh) parsley
* Garlic powder (not garlic salt)
* Dried rosemary
* Dried sage
* Thyme
* Cinnamon

Once all the ingredients are in a stew pot (add enough, preferably filtered, water to cover 3/4 of the pot's contents). Remember, frozen vegetables will yield more water. When we use frozen vegetables, we use only 1 to 1-1/2 of the 28-ounce cans full of water. Cook till chicken thighs are thoroughly cooked. Completely cool before feeding to your dogs.

Other ingredients you can add instead of or in addition to those listed are yellow squash, but NO onions.

Note: You can add some of the stew to any kibble you already feed your dogs to eliminate stomach upset. Or cook brown rice and serve the stew over brown rice. In our house, our dogs regularly eat raw vegetables and raw and cooked meat, so they're used to all the stew ingredients.

This recipe yields generous portions for at least four nights' dinner.

We'll bet your dogs are going to love their chicken stew!

October 2009 Pet Halo Award: Deborah Howard (CAPS)

2009-10-01T17:46:00.014-06:00

Deborah Howard, president of Companion Animal Protection Society (CAPS), is our October 2009 Pet Halo Award winner.

CAPS is the only national nonprofit dedicated exclusively to protecting companion animals. CAPS' foremost concern is the abuse and suffering of pet shop and puppy mill dogs. Founded in 1992, CAPS actively addresses this issue through investigations, education, media relations, legislative involvement, puppy mill dog rescues, consumer assistance and pet industry employee relations.

CAPS defines a puppy mill as a "commercial breeding facility that mass-produces puppies for resale through pet shops or individuals."

In early 2004, I came to know Deborah Howard. Deborah assisted myself and hundreds of guardians of dogs that had been affected and/or died from the heartworm injectable "preventative" ProHeart 6. CAPS was instrumental in focusing media attention on what was happening to the dogs in over 39 states, leading the FDA to ask the manufacturer of ProHeart 6 to remove the drug from the market until it could be proven safe. (Note: In June 2008, ProHeart 6 was re-released onto the U.S. market, apparently without further safety studies being conducted; instead, relying on the drug's "success" in other countries.")

Our world would truly be a horrible place without Deborah Howard and CAPS. I am honored to call Deborah Howard my friend and have her organization as one of The Pet Guardian's nonprofit 501(c)(3) charities. Deborah is a guardian angel to companion animals everywhere.

If you want to help CAPS in its efforts to eliminate the abuse and suffering of pet shop and puppy mill dogs, please make a tax-deductible donation to:

Companion Animal Protection Society
759 CJC Highway, #332
Cohasset, MA 02025

And please, PLEASE consider adopting your next animal companion from a shelter or rescue organization. Never purchase from a pet shop or over the Internet. Visit www.caps-web-org for more information about CAPS and puppy mill dogs.

Vaccinating Small Dogs: Risks Vets Aren't Revealing

2009-10-01T12:41:00.003-06:00

Vaccinating Small Dogs: Risks Vets Aren't Revealing

Make Pet Care More Affordable: Support the HAPPY Act

2009-09-23T16:06:00.007-06:00

Immediate Action Needed by All U.S. Pet Parents: Help Make Pet Care More Affordable--Support the HAPPY Act to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow a deduction for pet care expenses.

Wouldn't you like a credit of up to $3,500 for your pet care expenses? Write your district's U.S. representative and let your voice be heard!

It's easy to find out who your U.S. representative is: Google U.S. representative for (your city and state -- and maybe you will need to add your ZIP Code). Contact me if you need help!

See the ASPCA site at http://www.aspca.org/fight-animal-cruelty/lobby-for-animals/here to learn more about the HAPPY Act and for the ASPCA's prewritten letter you can cut and paste to send to your congressman.

Don't delay! The animals need your help!

Pet Death: Beezer's Top Ten Reasons Not to Feel Guilty

2009-09-21T11:41:00.005-06:00

As pet guardians, we are extremely hard on ourselves when our pets have passed on to the Rainbow Bridge. I wish I would have had this Top Ten list when I was grieving the death of my dogs Tasha and Niki. I would have read it probably a dozen times a day for God knows how many years. The guilt I felt from choosing a drug that took their lives and compromised my Casey's immune system for life was just unbearable.

Unfortunately, as a pet parent, your pet will die one day. I recommend printing Beezer's Top Ten list and keeping it in a safe place for that time in your life when you will need it.

BEEZER'S TOP TEN REASONS NOT TO FEEL GUILTY
(Compiled by Beezer, the Black Lab, from the Bridge and sent back to Earth.)

10. Jeez! If you're born, you die. Think about it, Dad.

9. Fear is the real enemy, not kidney disease. Fear is curable. I'm with you right now, just invisible. I'll be waiting at the Bridge when you arrive. Don't be afraid. Trust me.

8. Live with balance. The list of what went "right" with my life is so much bigger than the list of what went "wrong." My body died from kidney disease, but my spirit always soared because of you.

7. Honor my earthly life and memory. Does feeling guilty help you remember all our good times, adventures and mutual love?

6. Live with Presence! Don't despair about yesterday. Don't fear tomorrow. Otherwise, you'll miss out on the Gift of Today.

5. Thank you for taking my pain into your heart on the last day. I'm so proud of you for that selfless act.

4. Didn't you always forgive me when I made a mistake? I forgive you for any mistake you made during my illness. You made the best decisions possible with the information available at that time. All I took with me on my final earthly journey was our love. Please accept my forgiveness and release the guilt.

3. Pat yourself on the back in between crying. Your effort to treat me was a supreme act of humanity, love and compassion. Our relationship was never more meaningful than during my illness. Please recognize your character and commitment. I do.

2. Guilt is what you humans do to punish yourself for not being perfect.

1. You didn't have a cure for a fatal disease. My body stopped working because of this fatal disease, not because of something you did or did not do.

"Doug & the B Brothers"
c Doug Koktavy
May 1, 2005

Combination Shots for Dogs: Weapons of Over-Vaccination

2009-09-13T23:48:00.004-06:00

Combination Shots for Dogs: Weapons of Over-Vaccination

Yet another excellent article about vaccines, from Jan Rasmusen, national award-winning author of Scared Poopless: The Straight Scoop on Dog Care, and consumer advocate for dog lovers. Be sure to subscribe to Jan's Truth4Dogs blog!

When it comes to the life of your dog, be safe, not sorry!

GoD And DoG by WJ Francisco

2009-09-13T11:41:00.001-06:00

For those of you who value their dogs, enjoy this extremely touching You Tube video.

Woman Who Adopted Dog Thrown Off Bridge Faces Eviction - Paw Nation

2009-08-31T13:32:00.005-06:00

Woman Who Adopted Dog Thrown Off Bridge Faces Eviction - Paw Nation

Shared via AddThis

The Pet Guardian thanks 21-year-old Kelsey Westbrook for being the epitome of what being a loving pet guardian is all about. What could have been a tragic ending to one of God's creatures is only the beginning of what will now be a happy life for this lucky pit bull named Sunny.

I share with you a wonderful e-mail and message sent to me this morning from my dear friend Jim Rentas. Especially after reading the story of Kelsey and Sunny, the timing of this message couldn't be more appropriate.

"All of God’s creatures are impacted by human events, practices and ecological abuses. You know that the Greek Orthodox Faith is basically what sustains my sanity. What most people don’t know is that September 1st is the ecclesiastical New Year for the Orthodox Church and a day that is also dedicated to making us aware of the God given responsibility to protect and help maintain all of God’s creation.

"So, I’m sending you the following for your perusal to let you know that you are not alone in your quest to love and help sustain the quality of life for all animals, all be it by making everyone aware of the sanctity of all that was given for man’s pleasure and care."

Read on:

+ B A R T H O L O M E W
BY THE MERCY OF GOD ARCHBISHOP
OF CONSTANTINOPLE, NEW ROME AND
ECUMENICAL PATRIARCH
TO THE PLENITUDE OF THE CHURCH
GRACE AND PEACE
FROM THE CREATOR OF THE ENTIRE UNIVERSE
OUR LORD, GOD AND SAVIOUR JESUS CHRIST

"As we come again to the changing of the Church year, we reflect once more on the state of God’s creation. We think about the past and repent for all that we have done or failed to do for the earth’s care; we look to the future and pray for wisdom to guide us in all that we think or do.

"These last twelve months have been a time of great uncertainty for the whole world. The financial systems that so many people trusted to bring them the good things of life have brought instead fear, uncertainty and poverty. Our globalised economy has meant that everyone - even the poorest who are far removed from the dealings of big business - has been affected.

"The present crisis offers an opportunity for us to deal with the problems in a different way, because the methods that created these problems cannot provide their best solution. We need to bring love into all our dealings, the love that inspires courage and compassion. Human progress is not just the accumulation of wealth and the thoughtless consumption of the earth’s resources. The way that the present crisis has been dealt with has revealed the values of the few who are shaping the destiny of our society; of those who can find vast sums of money to support the financial system that has betrayed them, but are not willing to allot even the least portion of that money to remedy the piteous state the creation has been reduced to because of these very values, or for feeding the hungry of the world, or for securing safe drinking water for the thirsty, who are also victims of those values. On the face of every hungry child is written a question for us, and we must not turn away to avoid the answer. Why has this happened? Is it a problem of human inability or of human will?

"We have rendered the Market the centre of our interest, our activities and, finally, of our life, forgetting that this choice of ours will affect the lives of future generations, limiting the number of their choices that would probably be more oriented towards the well-being of man as well as the creation. Our human economy, which has made us consumers, is failing. The divine economy, which has made us in the image of the loving Creator, calls us to love and care for all creation. The image we have of ourselves is reflected in the way we treat the creation. If we believe that we are no more than consumers, then we shall seek fulfillment in consuming the whole earth; but if we believe we are made in the image of God, we shall act with care and compassion, striving to become what we are created to be.

"Let us pray for God’s blessing on the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen in December, so that the industrially developed countries may co-operate with developing countries in reducing harmful polluting emissions, that there may exist the will to raise and manage wisely the funds required for the necessary measures, and that all may work together to ensure that our children enjoy the goods of the earth that we leave behind for them. There must be justice and love in all aspects of economic activity; profit – and especially short-term profit – cannot and should not be the sole motive of our actions.

"Let us all renew our commitment to work together and bring about the changes we pray for, to reject everything that is harming the creation, to alter the way we think and thus drastically to alter the way we live."

September 1st, 2009 A.D.
Your beloved brother in Christ and
fervent supplicant before God,
+ BARTHOLOMEW of Constantinople

Care Affair for Canine Cures

2009-08-27T17:26:00.005-06:00

We underestimated just how many folks would not be available to participate in our Care Affair for Canine Cures fundraiser and health fair for dogs scheduled for Labor Day weekend, September 5, 2009. This event was to benefit Morris Animal Foundation's (MAF) Canine Cancer Campaign and MAF's Meisha's Hope AIHA/IMHA Fund #338.

Our event has been postponed until sometime in the spring of 2010. We are searching for a larger venue to hold our event so we can also have a K9 walk for our patrons and their dogs.

While we are disappointed we won't be holding our event as originally planned, we are more excited than ever as we continue to plan for the spring. We're firm believers in everything happens when it is supposed to, and we're sure that our spring event will be a great success!

We have gotten wonderful feedback and suggestions from our lineup of speakers, vendors, and participating rescue organizations. The fall and winter months will give us more time to lose sleep over the excitement of planning and arranging even more cool demonstrations, exhibitors, etc. We're even dreaming of our theme for the 2011 event!

Be sure to subscribe to The Pet Guardian blog to be kept up to date on developments!

August 2009 Pet Halo Award: Wag 'N Pet Safety Gear

2009-08-27T16:51:00.006-06:00

Who can ever forget what happened in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in 2005 and the unnecessary abandonment and death of over a half million pets. On so many levels, our country was not prepared for a disaster of such gigantic proportions, but especially in caring for the health and safety of God's creatures.

Fortunately, there is Ines de Pablo and her company, Wag 'N Enterprises. We love what she and her company stand for.

Here's a bit of information about Wag 'N, taken from their Web site:

"Owners need to be informed about their options, how they can prepare, what they need to prepare for, and understand that there are many ways to mitigate, prepare for and respond to an emergency. Our goal is to make sure that the pets you love so dearly are cared for appropriately to prevent a dire situation from becoming a full-blown emergency. And who said that preparedness couldn’t be trendy and fashionable? Know what’s at stake! Be informed! Keep your pets Wag 'N!"

Amen, Ines!

The Pet Guardian didn't have a Pet Halo Award winner for July, but we feel Wag 'N is more than worthy for August 2009 and beyond.

We encourage pet guardians to support Ines and Wag 'N by purchasing Wag 'N pet safety gear and making "our world a better place for our furry friends"!

Leaving Pets in Parked Cars

2009-06-28T12:46:00.006-06:00

Leaving your pet in a parked car is not "cool." Leaving your pet in a parked car can be a deadly mistake.

NEVER leave your pet unattended in a parked car for any period of time, not for 20 minutes, not for 2 minutes. On a warm day, the temperature in a car can exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit in a matter of minutes -- even with the windows partially open. I've seen pets in cars where the guardians didn't even leave the windows cracked! What are they thinking? Obviously, they're not thinking. Your pet can quickly suffer brain damage or die from heatstroke or suffocation when trapped in a hot car.

The elevation in body temperature stimulates your dog's body to release substances that activate inflammation. At temperatures greater than 109 degrees Fahrenheit, failure of vital organs, and consequently death, can occur.

In California it is illegal to leave a dog in a hot car. In 2006 Gov. Schwarzenegger signed SB 1806:

"SB 1806 makes it a crime for a person to leave a pet unattended in a vehicle in a way that endangers the well-being of the animal due to heat, cold, lack of adequate ventilation, or lack of food or water, or other circumstances that could reasonably be expected to cause suffering or death. Unless the animal suffers great bodily injury, a first misdemeanor conviction for this crime is punishable by a fine of $100 or less per animal. If the animal suffers great bodily injury, the punishment is a fine of $500 or less, a sentence of up to six months in county jail, or both. A person convicted of felony animal cruelty is subject to a fine of $20,000 or less, time in state prison, or both."

The bill was passed in 2006 and became a law in 2007. If you live in California, it may be a good idea to have a copy of the statute or a copy of the article in the link above to show the police if you ever see a dog in distress and they are reluctant to do anything about it.

Places where you tend to see most often dogs in parked cars is at the mall, in which case you can contact mall security to let them know. At the grocery store? Any other retail store? Ask management if they will announce on the intercom the guardian of the pet come to the front of the store. Be able to provide management with the color, make, and model of the car along with the license plate number.

Even if the sun isn't on the car at that moment, we all know that could change if the car remains for an extended period of time.

Can't find the pet's guardian? Be prepared to break the window of the car -- obviously away from the animal -- and get the animal out of the car.

This is what you should do if a pet is exposed to high temperatures:

Be alert to the signs of heat stress -- heavy panting, glazed eyes, a rapid pulse, unsteadiness, a staggering gait, vomiting, or a deep red or purple tongue.

If the pet has become overheated, you must lower his or her body temperature immediately by taking the following steps:

1. Move the pet into the shade and apply cool (not cold) water all over his or her body to gradually lower the animal's body temperature.

2. Apply ice packs or cold towels to the pet's head, neck, and chest only.

3. Let the pet drink small amounts of cool water or lick ice cubes.

Finally, take the pet directly to a veterinarian -- it could save the pet's life!

If you see an animal in a car exhibiting any signs of heat stress, call your local animal care and control agency or police department immediately!

You don't just expose your pet to the dangers of heat stress when you leave him or her in a car; you also expose your pet to pet theft. Many pets are stolen each year from unattended cars.

Taking your pet for a ride may seem like fun -- I know my dogs love it! -- but many pets prefer to spend time in the comfort and safety of home. Explore activities that you and your pet can share at home, and avoid the risks of leaving your pet in the car.

If you must take your pet with you in your car, do so safely. Cats should ride in pet carriers, and dogs should ride in travel crates or wear safety harnesses. When a pet travels, he or she should wear two ID tags -- one with a home address and one with a destination address.

I think most of us like the companionship of having our pets with us as much as possible. If it is warm outside, don't take him with you unless you are able to stay in the car with him and keep the air conditioner running. Remember: if you were to sit in your car with your winter coat on on a warm day and are uncomfortable, your pet will be, too!

Please keep your precious companions safe!

June 2009 Pet Halo Award: Dogswell

2009-06-23T21:06:00.013-06:00

The Pet Guardian has implemented the Pet Halo Award, our way of giving "four paws up" to pet-friendly individuals and companies who are particularly kind and generous with their time and resources in making our world a better place for our furry friends. We want to share some "pawsitivity" every month with you and are asking you to join us in doing the same!

We've just learned from the publication "Mile High Dog" that Dogswell, makers of natural treats and dog food, launched a relief campaign to give away 10,000 bags of dry dog food to people who have lost their jobs, taken a pay cut, or have suffered financial hardship. The offer ran from April 15, 2009 to May 15, 2009.

According to Dogswell marketing representative Jenny Williams, "We know how difficult it's been for pet owners to keep their pets, and we want to do what we can to help people keep their dogs for at least one more month." When the bags of food are mailed out, they come with a high-valued coupon so that the next bag of food can be purchased at a discount.

When so many pet guardians have found themselves financially destitute and in the difficult place of feeling they've needed to relinquish guardianship of their pets to shelters, it is comforting to know that there are those who are wanting to keep families together.

Kudos to Dogswell, our June 2009 Pet Halo Award winner!

Veterinary Care: Science, Guesswork, or Quackery?

2009-06-14T10:33:00.033-06:00

What does veterinary school teach vets, besides the anatomy of many different animals, office procedures, and taking the word of some drug reps and pharmaceutical companies as gospel? The Pet Guardian really has to wonder, as apparently some vets and their staff can't be taught common sense, instinct, compassion, and how to deal with their paying, concerned -- sometimes frantic -- wanting-to-be-educated clients. How much of veterinary care is science, guesswork, or quackery?

I write this not because of a bad experience I've had with a vet lately, but because of the flood of e-mails that find their way to me from people whose dogs or cats received horrendous "care" from veterinarians all across the United States, Canada, and Europe. It makes me so sad that our companion animals can be hurt by the very "experts" we are told we should trust.

Seven years ago, when I was becoming familiar with the holistic way of life for my dogs, I was referred to a vet who is well known in Colorado. People drive to see this man from many surrounding states to have their pets looked after. I felt comfortable with this "mountain vet" at first, especially because we both hate a certain drug manufacturer, who shall go unnamed here.

My dog Casey is a big, gentle soul of a black German shepherd/lab mix. He's not fond of a lot of attention bestowed on him and being in public places. He's one of the sweetest, most wonderful dogs you'll ever meet. Casey doesn't want baths, and he certainly does not want his toenails cut. He wants to be by my side at all times, and otherwise, please leave him alone, he'd say, if he could speak.

This mountain vet's office literally took five of their vet techs to hold Casey down to the floor to draw blood. This was an especially painful thing for me to watch, an image that stays with me to this day. But the blood had to be taken as we needed to find out the effects ProHeart 6 was having on Casey's immune system. I felt so bad for my poor baby struggling to get free from the clutches of these people.

By the time Casey and I had made it home this day from the mountain vet's office, the vet had called to report a sky-high level of white blood cells and said to bring him back for a recheck. Since this office could not assure me I could bring him in on another day and be seen right away for that recheck, I elected to try two other local vet offices for the same simple procedure. Which, by the way, turned out to be just fine. Casey had been so frightened by the mountain people that it caused his white blood cell count to hit that sky-high mark.

Sometimes Casey likes to lick his paws. It's very infrequent, but he does it. This same vet suggested I had mold in my house (a brand-new house), that Casey was allergic to "mold" in the carpet. This vet suggested that I -- get ready for this -- bathe Casey in BLEACH. Besides the fact that I did not have an itchy dog, this just did not sit right with me. At the time, even with my ignorance and trusting nature, I didn't know why it didn't sit well with me. But if anyone wants to try an experiment with pouring bleach on their own skin, have at it. See how you feel, especially if you have an open wound.

What happened with Casey makes me wonder how much science, guesswork, or quackery exists when it comes to vets treating our pets.

You know how I mentioned Casey is an old, gentle soul. Because of this, he also has highly developed keen instincts. I think some pets possess this gift more than others. I trust Casey's instincts implicitly and have learned so much about not only him, but my other dogs. He's the true teacher here.

Casey is seen now by a wonderful holistic vet who has a very calm demeanor about him, who is sort of a "pet whisperer," if you will. Anyone from this vet's office can draw blood or cut Casey's toenails without the assistance of even a second person. It's a miracle, I sometimes think, but no, it's really Casey letting me know these people are "okay," that I can trust in them for his care, as much as I can allow myself to trust vets, anyway.

Now, more than ever, it is crucial for pet guardians to become educated and be true advocates for their pets. Accepting things at face value, whether it be from a veterinarian or watching a cute TV commercial, without research conducted on one's own behalf, is NOT ACCEPTABLE and can lead to disasterous consequences. Pet guardians must learn to trust their own instincts and to trust their very animals who are trying to tell them something, if only we'd just listen.

The Dangers of "Spot-On" Flea Killers

2009-06-11T17:36:00.016-06:00

It's summertime, that time of year when pet guardians have real problems with fleas and ticks. Please everyone copy and paste the following link into your browser and read this most informative article. Buyer BEWARE!

http://www.apnm.org/publications/resources/fleachemfin.pdf

A good rule of thumb to always follow is this: If you would not let your human baby, your children, or yourself ingest or apply a chemical to your own body, PLEASE do not subject your pets to this kind of treatment! The same goes for heartworm injectables! These products that the TV commercials claim are "safe" can cause serious, irreversible side effects that could even cause death!

Pet Guardian Information Community

2009-06-03T12:32:00.007-06:00

We're happy to be back and doing what we love: informing unsuspecting pet guardians of dangers that may be lurking around their home, in the environment, and through commercial establishments that may affect their family pets.

Let this be a forum for all to share their experiences, both good and bad, so that all of us pet parents may learn how to better care for our pets and become their advocate. We are their voice!

Pet Food & Pet Treats

2007-05-04T08:57:00.001-06:00

If the worry and/or paranoia of pet food and pet treat recalls have you thinking perhaps you might want to try preparing your pet's food, I have several excellent general references you can purchase through my gift shop. See http://www.kindredspiritsgiftshop.com/cart.php?m=product_list&c=103.

Additionally, many pet "boutique" stores where you purchase pet foods and products offer nutrition classes. Check in your area to see what may be available.

Of course, the best bet is to make a nutrition appointment with your holistic vet to discuss your pet's specific needs.

The following link of the AVMA keeps updated information on recalled items http://www.avma.org/aa/petfoodrecall/products.asp. Also, you can subscribe to the National Pet Foundation's "Recall Email Update List" to get additional recall information within the hour it is reported. See http://www.nationalpetfoundation.com/

Good luck, and may you never find your pet's food and treats on any of these recall lists!

ProHeart 6 Victims: One Guardian's Story

2007-03-04T16:40:00.001-07:00

In the summer of 2002, my three dogs, Niki, Tasha, and Casey, had their first veterinary appointment in their new home state. Always being a diligent and conscientious guardian and having learned from living in the South, knowing it was heartworm season, my dogs were taken in for a checkup in order to be placed on their customary heartworm preventative.

At this point in my life, I felt vets were the next closest being to God. If a product was offered at a vet clinic, it must be safe. Was I ever in for an education! That day the vet pronounced my dogs healthy, and I was grateful for that. My dogs are my life, my babies. But that day, I left the clinic feeling something "evil" had just happened and that I would never return.

Unfortunately, my gut feelings proved to be correct when, two months later, Tasha collapsed on the kitchen floor. An emergency vet diagnosed immune mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA). After heroic attempts to make her well, Tasha died six days later. She left behind her companions Niki and Casey.

Less than two months after Tasha died, late one night Niki collapsed on the living room floor. Before dawn, Niki, too, was gone. Niki left behind his companion Casey and a devastated, angry, grief-stricken guardian, me.

At the same time, Casey's immune system was found not to be normal; but by the grace of God, Casey is alive today and appears to be healthy, although he remains on medication that he may possibly be on the rest of his life.

The common denominator of my dogs' illnesses and deaths? In this guardian's "opinion," the vet's administration of the heartworm injectable known as ProHeart 6.

Because of this most painful chapter in my life, the struggle I experience on a daily basis, I started to become educated about so many issues pertaining to the health of our pets and disturbing trends that have come to my attention. I am finding that the average layperson just has no clue. I am no expert, but the knowledge I have gained, I want to share with you.

I couldn't save my dogs' lives, but maybe I can help save the life of your pet. Hopefully you can in turn save the lives of others. The creation of this Web site is a tribute to my dogs Tasha and Niki, to Casey and now Abby, for their unconditional love, devotion, and companionship and my never-ending love and gratitude for having each of these wonderful souls in my life.

Pet Advocate 101

2007-03-03T17:01:00.001-07:00

If you have found yourself questioning the quality and safety of health care products and services that are provided for pets then maybe Pet Advocate 101 is the place for you. Many of us have learned about the potential dangers associated with pet products, drugs and services through experience because we were not informed consumers. In an effort to raise awareness this group welcomes discussions about these matters but our primary focus is on how we can educate ourselves, raise public awareness and what we can do to create effective changes that will better protect pets.

We discuss the quality of healthcare as well as related legal issues and legislative matters. We discuss related current events and examine how we can effectively initiate and support efforts for change.

Our concern is animal welfare rather than animal rights.

We are pet advocates not animal rights activists. If you want to know what you can do to actively support efforts that will protect pets then maybe this is the group for you. We are NOT an ANIMAL RIGHTS group. This group does NOT advocate or support any attacks on or removal of pet owners' rights such as mandatory spay/castration, mandatory microchipping or breed specific legislation.

If you just want to lurk this is NOT the group for you.

http://pets.groups.yahoo.com/group/PetAdvocate101/