Amy Shojai's Blog, page 119
March 25, 2013
Monday Mentions: Pink Flamingo Dreams & Brass Rings
This past week has been a killer. Last Monday began well as I wrote a fun and exciting chapter on the LOST AND FOUND sequel and looked forward to the weekly Monday night CAT CRAZY radio program. But then the day tanked as my laptop died. Before folks start preaching the gospel of Mac, this had nothing to do with a virus and everything (apparently) to do with unstable North Texas power grid that tends to fry “motherboards” quicker than chicken-fried armadillo. Anyway, the laptop surgeons are prepping for a transplant once the new motherboard arrives, which means finishing up my next audio book has been put on hold. See, all the audio software is on the laptop, so it’s mobile and can move into my “sound studio” (aka office walk in closet).
There were a few other angsty happenings that truly got blown out of proportion because my nerves were already off the charts over the laptop. So I’ve been yearning for some Pink Flamingo Dreams that help me keep a-reaching for those writerly brass rings. Every artist has their own kind of brass ring and safe place.
The photo above taken at the annual writer retreat. When I get discouraged, the goofy bird reminds me that even outrageous creatures like flamingos exist (and unlikely dreams like getting fiction published can come true). That place in the mountains is my happy place where the phone doesn’t ring, friendship and laughter abound, and all the ills of the world are left far behind. It’s where I go to recharge. Do you have a place like that, virtual or otherwise, that you share with family and/or friends? What’s your pink flamingo?
I’ve crossed all the monthly must-do’s off the list–except for tonight’s CAT CRAZY radio show (PLEASE listen/call in with your catty comments & questions!). And with my calendar cleared, this will be a week full of fiction-ing so I’m channeling “the bird” this week. What’s on your weekly to-do list?
Monday Mentions is the mash-up-day of all the neato-torpedo writer links and videos, pet schtuff and bling and writer-icity crappiocca collected over the past week. Lots of fun pet-astic videos at the bottom, too. For new followers to the blog, welcome! and you can expect more cat and dog specific schtuff later in the week on Wednesday and Friday.
WRITER-ICITY SCHTUFF
Signed Ebooks with Authorgraph! what a neat concept, for PAW-tographed books *s*
Barnes & Noble vs Simon & Schuster it’s getting tense…
Salt Cay Writers Retreat this is an AWESOME opportunity–wish I could go!
Beware of Autharium a caution from The Passive Voice, and additional info from Writer Beware
5 Writer Trends You Must Know from Jane Friedman
10 Favorite Book Blogs from Story Cartel
FTC Rules for BLoggers a must-read for those reviewing products or with “sponsored” posts
Best-selling Ebooks, the REAL numbers this will raise your virtual eyebrows…
How to Create A Successful Kickstarter Campaign
Winning Marketing Strategies for Ebooks thanks to Diane Capri for pointing out this great post
PET-ASTIC SCHTUFF
Crazy Pet Children’s Foundation, what a worthy cause–offers grants to kid-and-pet-friendly programs
Pet Parent Awards from the always awesome Morris Animal Foundation
People-Pet Relationship Study a survey where you can help
UraPet oh no, not another social networking site…just leave it to the pets! (caution: check the fine print on who owns what once posted…)
Top 10 Pet-Safe Vehicles I love it when my buddies do all the research for me–great info from Fidose of Reality
Your email:
I love hearing from you, so please share comments and questions. Do you have an ASK AMY question you’d like answered? Do you have a new kitten and need answers? Stay up to date on all the latest just subscribe the blog, “like” me on Facebook, listen to the weekly radio show, check out weekly FREE PUPPY CARE newsletter, and sign up for Pet Peeves newsletter. Stay up to date with the latest book give aways and appearances related to my THRILLERS WITH BITE!
March 22, 2013
Cats & Deadly Lilies–First Aid Tips You Need
Copr. Home-and-garden.webshots.com
This is a repeat of a column I write nearly every year. The gorgeous lily makes its appearance each year, decorating church, home, and garden. I can’t have them in my house, though. I won’t to risk having an Easter lily anywhere near my cat Seren. For cats, the fragrant blooms can mean death.
This year, I’m very pleased that our church offers an option to give a donation to a local charity in someone’s name, lieu of purchasing a lily in someone’s honor. Don’t get me wrong, I love lilies. They’re gorgeous. But my Seren-kitty likes to munch any plant I bring into the house.
Many lilies are lethal to cats. Easter lilies, stargazer lilies, and Asiatic lilies are the most dangerous, and different cats react in various ways. The plants contain a chemical that can damage the kidneys, and kill your cat. Just biting a leaf or petal, or licking up the water from the vase can be enough to cause serious kidney disease.
Artificial flowers may be just the ticket, as in this posed shot.
Dogs often gnaw leaves, dig up the plant, or eat the whole thing. Cats aren’t as likely to eat plants, but just biting a lily leaf or petal can kill kitty. Felines more often paw-pat and shred leaves and stems during play, and may be poisoned when they later lick and clean their paws and claws.
Cats poisoned by lily toxin typically suffer kidney failure within 36 to 72 hours. Symptoms include vomiting, lethargy or loss of appetite. Some cats suffer permanent kidney damage and lose their lives, while others can recover if treated in time with dialysis that gives the organs enough time to heal.
Roses can injure cats if they bite thorns, but aren’t toxic and actually are edible…according to Seren!
The easiest way to protect your cats is to keep toxic plants out of reach—or out of your house altogether. Besides lilies, other potential harmful plants include rhododendron, sago palm, kalanchoe and schefflera. Azalea can cause vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, coma and death. Eating or chewing caladium, dieffenbachia or philodendron makes the tongue and throat swell up so breathing is difficult. Mother-in-law’s tongue (snake plant) causes everything from mouth irritation to collapse. Crown of thorns and English ivy will prompt thirst, vomiting and diarrhea, stomach pain, and death in one to two days. Holly also causes stomach pain, vomiting and diarrhea.
Peace Lily
You can keep your pet family members safe and sound by choosing only pet-friendly safe varieties for your garden and home. Calla Lilies (below) and peace lilies (above), which don’t belong to the Lilium genus, are harmless to cats.
Calla Lily
There are many other plants that prompt mild problems, such as excess salivation or mouth discomfort. Keeping these out of reach of curious paws may be sufficient to protect your animals. But pet lovers should steer clear of the worst plant offenders, both inside and out. If you see your pet with one or more of these signs, particularly if a suspect plant is within reach, get help immediately! First aid can save the cat or dog’s life. Then take the pet to see the veterinarian as quickly as possible.
Different poisons require very specific first aid. Usually that will be either 1) induce vomiting, (cats do this on their own very well–but never when you want them to!) or 2) give milk or water to wash out the mouth and dilute the poison. Making the pet vomit the wrong poisonous plant, though, could make a serious situation even more deadly, so you MUST know what to do for each type of plant.
Detailed advice for dealing with the most common plant poisoning is available in the book The First-Aid Companion for Dogs and Cats. The ASPCA Animal Poison-Control Center is available for telephone consultations (1-888-426-4435) in case of poisoning emergency.
What cat-safe plants do you have in your home? How do you keep the cat from destroying/eating them? Have you ever had a kitty-plant encounter of the dangerous kind?
Your email:
I love hearing from you, so please share comments and questions. Do you have an ASK AMY question you’d like answered? Do you have a new kitten and need answers? Stay up to date on all the latest just subscribe the blog, “like” me on Facebook, listen to the weekly radio show, check out weekly FREE PUPPY CARE newsletter, and sign up for Pet Peeves newsletter. Stay up to date with the latest book give aways and appearances related to my THRILLERS WITH BITE!
March 20, 2013
PETS & POISON! National Poison Prevention Awareness Week
Out-thinking pets keeps them safe!
National Poison Prevention Week runs March 17-23, and is a wonderful time to learn how to protect pets from household dangers. Most cases of pet poisoning are accidental, and preventing accidents and knowing first aid saves pet lives.
Dogs are particularly prone to poisoning because like human infants, they put everything in their mouths. And they’re clueless. No offense, but dogs truly eat first and think later…or don’t think at all. *s*
Cats are more discriminating about what they eat, but contact poison can affect any pet if they walk through something toxic or it spills on fur and is absorbed through the skin. Cats can be poisoned when they lick off something that’s on their fur or claws.
Symptoms vary depending on the poison, amount of exposure, and the individual animal. You may see anything from drunken staggers and collapse, to salivation, seizures, or hyperactivity.
PEOPLE Rx
Poisonings from human medications has become the most common pet poisoning over the last several years. Dogs either gulp down tasty candy-coated pills, or owners give them human drugs without realizing the risks. Cats may play with pills, and accidentally swallow them. Be aware that pets don’t metabolize Tylenol, aspirin, ibuprofen or neproxin (Aleve) the same way people do, and can die from taking them. A single extra-strength Tylenol can kill a cat. Even pet medicines have the potential for toxicity if you give medication intended for one pet to another.
CHEMICAL SPILLS
Chemical toxicity used to top the list but the safer flea and tick products have reduced the numbers of overdosing. Problems occur when owners fail to read and follow directions. What’s safe for a dog may be deadly for a cat!
Cleaning agents such as bleaches, detergents and disinfectants prove hazardous to pets that walk through spills and then lick themselves clean. Antifreeze and other household chemicals such as paint thinner, drain cleaners, pool/spa chemicals and toilet bowl cleaners also offer hazards to pets. Dogs and cats also fall victim to paint, solvents, expanding glue and other home improvement products.
MEAN GREEN
Plant poisonings are particularly dangerous to mouthy pets. Some varieties that can be harmful to pets include lilies, azalea, rhododendron, sago palm, kalanchoe and schefflera. Dogs fall victim most often because of their urge for recreational chewing. But some cats nibble leaves or paw-play with plants and may be poisoned when they later lick their claws clean. Beware of Easter lilies this holiday! (more on lilies this Friday.)
CRITTER BAIT
Pest baits also tempt dogs and cats, and can poison pets that catch or scavenge poisoned rodents, roaches or snails. The same cereal grains often used in commercial pet foods also are used in rodent baits so dogs may willingly eat the poison. Anticoagulants like warfarin prevent blood from clotting, and cause uncontrolled and fatal bleeding from the rectum, nose, and even the skin. Other common poisons include cholecalciferol; bromethalin which irreversibly damages the nervous system; strychnine prompts seizures; and arsenic often kills before signs develop (the pet’s breath smells of garlic). Pest poisons may take 24 to 72 hours to induce signs, but once the dog or cat shows distress, treatment may not be as effective and can be too late.
SWEET POISON
Dogs love sweet flavors and often poison themselves by eating chocolate. Watch for details about Easter candy cautions on next Wednesday’s blog.
If you suspect that your pet has been poisoned call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center’s 24-hour hotline at (888) 426-4435. A $65 consultation fee may be applied to your credit card. Details on specific signs and treatments of various poisons are also listed in “The First-Aid Companion for Dogs and Cats.” For more information on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, visit http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/
Has your dog or cat ever suffered from poisoning? How did you know? And what did you do? I hope you’ll never experience a pet toxicity case but it’s best to be prepared, just in case!
I love hearing from you, so please share comments and questions. Do you have an ASK AMY question you’d like answered? Do you have a new kitten and need answers? Stay up to date on all the latest just subscribe the blog, “like” me on Facebook, listen to the weekly radio show, check out weekly FREE PUPPY CARE newsletter, and sign up for Pet Peeves newsletter. Stay up to date with the latest book give aways and appearances related to my THRILLERS WITH BITE!
March 18, 2013
Monday Mentions: Cat Crazy, Writer-icity & Freelance Angst
60+ Starred Reviews & Counting!
Happy Monday! I missed posting my regular mash-up last week, so today’s makes up for that. And I’ve got some SNOOPY-DANCE-’O-JOY! news on the Thriller-icity front. LOST AND FOUND has been reviewed by Midwest Book Review, here. The pertinent line that I want to spray paint on the side of my car and drive around town says,
“”Lost and Found” is a fine addition to thriller collections with a family focus.”
YEEE-HAW! If you’re so inclined to check out other reviews and maybe-sorta-kinda (gulp) tell others about the book, click on the cover above and share the link. I know most of y’all have already had plenty of opportunity to do so, several have reviewed the book, and I’m truly grateful.
Monday Mentions is the mash-up-day of all the neato-torpedo writer links and videos, pet schtuff and bling and writer-icity crappiocca collected over the past week. Lots of contests today for cat videos, best veterinarian, dog heroes and pet blogs so be sure to enter and/or nominate your favs. For new followers to the blog, welcome! and you can expect more cat and dog specific schtuff later in the week on Wednesday and Friday.
WRITER-ICITY SCHTUFF
Shakespearean Insults great fun, and my future villains will henceforth be described as unmuzzled rump-fed puttocks! Shared by my writer friend Sandra Soli
JA Konrath’s Survey Response to Harlequin you do NOT want to miss this! Oh, and all that’s missing is calling ‘em unmuzzled rump-fed puttocks.
“My Amazon Best-seller Made Me Nothing” reality bites…
Tips from Mark Coker to Boost Book Sales
CircularFLO Converts InDesign to Fixed Image Ebooks great for graphics heavy titles (only works with Macs)
OWFI Interviewed Me about The Reinvented Writer a workshop I’ll give at the upcoming conference in May.
Facebook Tricks for Better Engagement from the always awesome Jenny Hansen
Hydra Brouhaha an ongoing issue of less-than-ideal author terms from publishers
Law Firm Investigates Author Solutions courtesy of Writer Beware, and another class action lawsuit against PublishAmerica
Google Reader Shuts Down what are your options?
Hey Freelancers, does this sound familiar?
PET-ASTIC SCHTUFF
I Smell Your Fear interest that this applies to PEOPLE and not just animals.
Music Benefits Shelter Pets with some cool studies how and why it works
Why Some Dogs Live Longer an enlightening post from Fidose of Reality
Horse Painting & More from Piper Bayard (no, it’s the HORSE that’s painting, silly!)
Cat Actors in Breakfast At Tiffany’s
Pet Car Restraints Don’t Work ruh-row don’t let Magic read this…
CAT CRAZY RADIO! LIVE!
Call In Tonight! 888-429-5471
For those who missed last week’s announcement, I’m hosting a newborn kitten-of-a-show called CAT CRAZY with Tracie Hotchner every Monday night (THAT’S TONIGHT!) 8PM Eastern, 5PM Western time. Call in with your CAT-CENTRIC questions (hey, we’ll field doggy schtuff, too) and listen on the Internet from your computer, etc. A lot has happened this past week in the world of cats, and no doubt we’ll have lots to hiss and purr about.
Your email:
I love hearing from you, so please share comments and questions. Do you have an ASK AMY question you’d like answered? Do you have a new kitten and need answers? Stay up to date on all the latest just subscribe the blog, “like” me on Facebook, listen to the radio show, check out weekly FREE PUPPY CARE newsletter, and sign up for Pet Peeves newsletter. Stay up to date with the latest book give aways and appearances related to my THRILLERS WITH BITE!
March 15, 2013
Cats & Mirrors
Cats become enthralled by their reflection–and sometimes it freaks them out! Image Copr. LemurEyes/Flickr
Years ago when I was on tour as the spokesperson for the Purina Cat Chow Way of Life Tour, we’d arrive in town the evening before and visit the shelter to choose a kitty for the next morning’s TV appearance. The “stars” almost always got lots of attention from viewers and were adopted. Understandably, shelter staff had their favorites and often urged us to choose a special feline that had less chance for a forever home. I had the delight to spend the night in the hotel room with the lucky kitty. Believe me, it was tough not to bring a whole clowder home!
One memorable time, the shelter volunteers urged us to take a “lifer” onto the TV show. This kitty had been there for several years, and probably couldn’t remember ever being on the “outside.” She’d had reconstructive eye surgery for a birth defect (problems with the eyelids) and had poor vision. But she was sweet and adored by the whole staff–so was chosen to make her debut on TV. That evening, when I opened the carrier door in the hotel room to allow her to stretch her legs, she got as far as the closet door, and FREAKED! The mirror reflection terrified her–that strange cat in the glass hissed at her, screamed at her, threatened to attack–and this poor cat hadn’t a clue what to do. It’s likely the eyesight issue made it worse, but many cats react to mirrors poorly.
CATS & MIRRORS
Cat face conformation—eyes at the front for binocular vision—lends itself to seeing reflections. But most times, a reflection doesn’t also have a strange odor or unique sounds attached, so for experienced cats, the reflection isn’t important or “real” without a signature odor or noises.
Other times, cats like my little shelter waif, develop problem behaviors from mis-recognizing their own reflection as a threat or playmate. Kittens that have less life experience are most likely to react to reflections before they realize they can’t reach that “cat behind the glass.” Some cats react to the reflections in pictures, oven doors, fireplace screens, or even tile. Mirrors and other reflecting surfaces can be confused with windows.
Cats often attempt to reach the other cat by pawing underneath or at the side of the mirror to “get around” the barrier preventing contact. Cats also do this after watching TV images of birds or other critters, mistaking the screen for a window.
EVIL CAT TWINS
The lurking outdoor cat presence primes the mirror-gazing kitty to become suspicious so his fearful reflection also triggers defensive body language. When the cat displays “friendly” body language, the reflection does the same and such interactions are less likely to cause problems. But a fearful or aggressive body posture is reflected back to the cat and perceived as a threat, raising the actual cat’s arousal. This becomes a vicious cycle. When cats are highly aroused they react rather than think, and it matters little that the reflection offers no scent or sound. Some cats learn to associate shiny surfaces/locations with feeling upset and these can trigger acting out behavior.
The interaction with the reflection runs the range from curious and playful, to head-thumping and screaming attacks. I’ve included a couple examples of milder reactions in the videos, below, but some cats become quite violent to the point they can injure themselves. This could also feed into cases of redirected aggression. In other words, the cat becomes hissed off by that “threatening cat” seen in the mirror, but can’t reach the interloper, and so instead nails a passing cat friend.
Each time a cat sees an upsetting reflection he practices being upset. Each repeat of a given behavior predicts more to come, and makes it more likely for it to continue. So what can a caring owner do?
Remove mirrors if possible.
Move mirrors or problem reflective surfaces. A new location may not have the same associations.
Cover reflective surfaces you can’t move. Tape paper over cat-level mirrors, or spray-paint with temporary opaque color.
When you have one confident cat that ignores the mirror, play games and offer treats in the mirror-area while the upset cat watches. This can teach the upset cat that another feline has no fear, and can encourage copy-cat calm behavior. More tips for dealing with mirror angst or redirected aggression are in the ComPETability: Cats book.
Have your cats ever reacted to the mirror or their reflection in windows or other surfaces? How old where they? Did it become a problem? How did you manage it? As you’ll see in one of the videos, below, cats can and do react to images such as high-definition screens like TVs and iPads as well. How would you describe the kitten’s c’attitude in the first video? What about the second one?
Your email:
I love hearing from you, so please share comments and questions. Do you have an ASK AMY question you’d like answered? Do you have a new kitten and need answers? Stay up to date on all the latest just subscribe the blog, “like” me on Facebook, listen to the radio show, check out weekly FREE PUPPY CARE newsletter, and sign up for Pet Peeves newsletter. Stay up to date with the latest book give aways and appearances related to my THRILLERS WITH BITE!
March 13, 2013
Dog Aggression & What to Do
Play fighting can look and sound like the real thing.
Last month I attended the Western Veterinary Conference in Las Vegas. Yes, I know, it’s a tough job but someone has to do it. *s* During the week-long event, back to back seminars by veterinary experts offered the latest information on everything from chicken antibiotics and ferret care, to large animal info and—of course—cat and dog treatments.
Some of y’all know that I also write puppy-licious information at puppies.about.com and I’d just posted a series of articles on kinds of aggression. Guess what? The labels for one of the most common kinds has changed! So yet again, I’ve updated those articles as well as the ComPETability: Dog book (stay tuned shortly for the audio and print versions!), and wanted to share the information here.
It’s now called conflict aggression, but it used to be termed dominance aggression. The new descriptor makes lots more sense, though, because dogs that display this type of aggression act anything but “dominant” and instead do appear to be conflicted about how to act and what to do.
9 KINDS OF AGGRESSION & WHAT TO DO
Status Related Aggression can develop as the young dog matures and tries to find his or her place in the canine family group.
Sibling Rivalry has to do with interdog aggression and can be especially problematic when the younger pooch decides to challenge the older dog.
Fear Aggression is one of the most common types. Fear components can be part of nearly all the other kinds of aggression!
Conflict Aggression (used to be termed dominance) includes resource guarding (his bowl, toys, your bed!) and is directed at people.
Leash Aggression happens toward other pets or people when the dog is confined on a leash.
Territorial Aggression has to do with defending turf. We want dogs to protect us and our property–but it can go too far.
Predatory & Play Aggression can be normal for playful dogs–but can turn predatory toward smaller pets or infants.
Excitement Aggression often happens in doorways and hallways when the pooch gets too wound up.
Alliance Aggression appears to be uncommon but happens when one dog guards the owner from the other pets in the home–when you aren’t there the dogs get along.
Of course, aggression in and of itself isn’t necessarily evil and within the right context can be perfectly normal. Aggression always happens for a reason. Dogs and pups can be provoked into aggression by all kinds of clueless human behavior–it makes sense to the dog, of course! So to prevent dangerous aggression that can get you bit and lose your dog his home or even his life, it’s vital to learn how to understand doggy language.
Does this help with understanding canine aggression? What have been your experiences with your pets? How have you managed or prevented/avoided the problem?
Your email:
I love hearing from you, so please share comments and questions. Do you have an ASK AMY question you’d like answered? Do you have a new kitten and need answers? Stay up to date on all the latest just subscribe the blog, “like” me on Facebook, listen to the weekly radio show, check out weekly FREE PUPPY CARE newsletter, and sign up for Pet Peeves newsletter. Stay up to date with the latest book give aways and appearances related to my THRILLERS WITH BITE!
March 11, 2013
CAT CRAZY Radio Show Debuts Tonight!
Got a question? Shout it out! Call the LIVE SHOW at 888-429-5471 . . .
I’ve always been CAT CRAZY (and dog crazy…and just PLAIN crazy!) pretty much forever. And lately I’m crazy with deadlines so today’s blog post is very short and sweet, so I can kick to the curb a couple more of those deadlines.
One reason I’m crazed in a GOOD way, though, is my new live call-in cat advice Radio Show with the awesome Tracie Hotchner! She’s created a brand new Internet radio network, and invited me (wow…I’m honored) as well as some other movers-and-shakers in the pet world to help host these shows on travel, nutrition, natural vet care, dog training–and all things cats!
Seren is over the moon! (Shhhh, don’t tell her, but some dawg-schtuff may well sneak into the show, too.)
CAT CRAZY is a live call-in show — 888-429-5471 each Monday night 8 pm Eastern, 5 pm Western — so you can listen from your PC or your smart phone or tablet device. It will be recorded and replay as a podcast in the archives if you miss a show. You can phone to ask questions or just add to the conversation, post in the comments here, and (if I can manage!) I’ll be on Twitter using the #catcrazy hashtag for conversations and questions. Whew!
Don’t worry, the regular MONDAY MENTIONS will post later today. I think. Maybe. *looking at to-do list* I hope…
See ya on the radio!
Your email:
I love hearing from you, so please share comments and questions. Do you have an ASK AMY question you’d like answered? Do you have a new kitten and need answers? Stay up to date on all the latest just subscribe the blog, “like” me on Facebook, listen to the radio show, check out weekly FREE PUPPY CARE newsletter, and sign up for Pet Peeves newsletter. Stay up to date with the latest book give aways and appearances related to my THRILLERS WITH BITE!
March 8, 2013
Say What? Helping Deaf Pets Deal with Schtuff
Seren is going deaf. She can still hear some things, but it’s obvious that her hearing has deteriorated especially in the last year.
It used to be I could call Seren to come watch the bunny on the patio, and she’d run from anywhere in the house. She still enjoys scanning the back view for rabbity entertainment–even if she can’t hear it any more.
She’s always been a loud-mouth kitty, talking constantly and responding to our conversation so she always gets the last word. But her voice has always been pleasant, almost a sweet mew. With her loss of hearing, her voice has become louder, more strident, and she often cries especially at night with long drawn out yowls when she can’t hear to find us.
It’s not surprising. Aging cats commonly suffer hearing loss, and Seren is 16 now. I’m referring a lot these days to my old cat care book.
HOW WELL DO PETS HEAR?
In her youth, Seren (like all normal cats) heard much better than people. However, youthful pets hear better than middle aged and older animals. Some cats are born deaf, or are genetically predisposed to deafness. For example, blue-eyed white cats can be born with a condition that results in deafness at an early age.
Hearing is something that cats are better at than dogs–but don’t tell Magic! Normal dogs typically hear the same low-pitched sounds as humans, as well as frequencies as high as 100,000 cycles per second—people can only hear sound waves up to 20,000 cycles per second. Cat hearing is even more acute. Your cat can hear sounds in a 10½-octave range—a wider span of frequencies than any other mammal. That allows your cat to hear nearly ultrasonic rodent squeaks.
At least, Seren used to be able to hear those mousy voices. Not anymore. Oh well, she never caught a mouse anyway!
With age, the delicate structures of the inner ear begin to lose their sensitivity to vibration. This normal age-related hearing loss, called presbycusis, develops in every pet that lives long enough—just as it does in aging people. We’re going to be in BIG trouble if Seren lives another 10 years and I’m losing my hearing, too.
Hearing loss can be accelerated by damage from loud noises. Dogs that hunt and are exposed to gunshots for years and years are more prone to damage. Chronic ear infections may also result in hearing loss.
MAKING ACCOMMODATIONS FOR DEAF PETS
Cats and dogs can’t tell us that they’re hard of hearing, and they compensate by paying more attention with their other senses. In fact, strangers probably wouldn’t notice any difference in Seren. As long as she can see folks, she clues in very quickly on what’s going on. Deaf pets watch owners and other pets more closely, and cue off of their behavior to know that somebody’s at the door, for example. Seren alerts to Magic’s behavior when my husband comes home. Deaf pets also pay closer attention to vibration and air currents—the breeze made by an open door may cue them you’ve come home from work. Even when they can’t hear the can opener, the pet’s internal “clock” will announce suppertime.
So what do I do to make accommodations for my kitty? I make sure Seren can see me, and if she’s looking the other way, I tap the tabletop or stomp my foot so she feels the vibration. I don’t want to startle her, and this way she is alerted to my presence. If Magic should start to lose his hearing, he’s already learned many hand signals and probably wouldn’t miss a beat. Pets trained with clickers can instead learn to respond to the flick-on-off of a flashlight or a porch light switched on/off to call the dog inside.
Deafness also raises safety concerns. Can the dozing, deaf cat wake up in time to get away from an aggressive stray? Keeping all cats and especially deaf kitties inside is probably the safest option. Seren rarely went outside anyway, and then on a leash, so she’s not missing anything.
Seren is still happy and otherwise healthy. She still indulges in the “zooms” almost every evening, and enjoys putting the dog in his place. Have you ever had a pet with hearing loss? What were tips that helped you keep your pet happy and safe? Please share!
Your email:
I love hearing from you, so please share comments and questions. Do you have an ASK AMY question you’d like answered? Do you have a new kitten and need answers? Stay up to date on all the latest just subscribe the blog, “like” me on Facebook, listen to the radio show, check out weekly FREE PUPPY CARE newsletter, and sign up for Pet Peeves newsletter. Stay up to date with the latest book give aways and appearances related to my THRILLERS WITH BITE!
March 6, 2013
Dog Proofing 101
For puppies and some adult dogs, EVERYTHING is a toy to be munched. Image Copr. Dave Garber via Flickr
When Magical-Dawg was just a baby, he got into everything. Actually, he STILL would like to get into a lot of schtuff, but we’ve learned to thwart him. While puppies are the most accident prone and clueless of the canine clan, adult dogs often don’t outgrow these hijinks. And one moment of pleasure dumpster-diving can lead to a week of (gasp!) diarrhea and/or vomiting or worse, with extra expense for you to clean–or replace–your carpets.
One of my Facebook followers mentioned the other day that one of her dogs liked to eat paintballs. This industrious canine wasn’t deterred by the owners putting the doggy delight out of paw-reach. Oh no, he snuffled and tracked down the unexploded ones out in the woods for this special treat–she says he particularly liked the yellow ones.
Ew!
Magic enjoyed eating paper. Although gag-prompting from my perspective, at least the used tissues he fished out of wastebaskets passed through his system. The sparkly cat toys didn’t always enjoy such an easy exit, though, and so wastebaskets and cat toys “live” on the tops of counters at my house. It’s a decorating choice. Ahem.
Some dog proofing tips can save your pet’s life. March is National Poison Awareness Month (more on that in later blogs), and cleaning supplies can be a nasty danger to dogs with less than discriminating palates. Remember that he’ll drink out of the toilet and gnosh from the cat’s litter box, so ANYTHING within chomping range could become a potential doggy appetizer.
What are some unexpected dog proofing challenges you’ve faced? We once had a young dog at the vet that got his head stuck through the railings of a ladder back chair. The owners didn’t see THAT coming! I’ve also heard of small dogs that got caught in the La-Z-Boy recliner type chairs. My first dog ate two TV remotes–yes, we were slow learners, that he nailed the second one, too.
Here’s my 10 Tips To Puppy Proof Your House & Yard. The tips apply to adult dogs, too. What have I missed?
I love hearing from you, so please share comments and questions. Do you have an ASK AMY question you’d like answered? Do you have a new kitten and need answers? Stay up to date on all the latest just subscribe the blog, “like” me on Facebook, listen to the radio show, check out weekly FREE PUPPY CARE newsletter, and sign up for Pet Peeves newsletter. Stay up to date with the latest book give aways and appearances related to my THRILLERS WITH BITE!
March 4, 2013
Monday Mentions: Word-icity, Food Stamps for Pets & Nosy Awards
Deb Laroche gave me a GREAT review for LOST AND FOUND thriller…and also sent a picture of her expert doggy critics gallery, L-R: Tess, Sookie, Spike and Harley. Thanks to all for the paws-up! Anyone who has reviewed the book–please send a picture of your fur-kids with a link to the review and I’ll post ‘em on a future blog!
As a writer, I love words and I suspect readers love ‘em, too. Some words are just fun to say, and the other day my co-author and I got tickled listing a bunch of our favs. To spread the fun around, I posted a note on my Facebook Page inviting folks to add their own silly or interesting words. These are great to throw into writer-ly scenes, and can add great character to your fiction-icity.
Well yes, I make up words, too. 
I offered the word PUCE. My co-author replied with SNORKLE. I came back with GARBANZO. KUMQUAT. SCRUMPTIOUS.
Here are more words my Facebook Friends and I added–DISCOMBOBULATE. Antidisestablishmentarianism. MOCKNEFARIOUS (a worthy made-up word!) KOKOMO, WAUKARUSA, KITCHICOQUILLIS, NAPPANEE. Fustian hippopotamus absodamnlutely cockles. Humuhumunukunukuapua’a (Hawaii’s state fish). Vendouza (Greek for “suction cup”). Onamatopoei, Trebuchet. SCARF. Acetabulum. SASQUATCH. TORPID. LUDICROUS. NOXIOUS. SQUIB. Upsidebittemus. Diaphanous Melanoma Malevolent Shyster. Pavlova. Carbunkle, synchronize, vicisitude. Melliflous, nonchalant (so Audrey Hepburn, that one), obsequious and kerfluffle. Jubilate. Clock. Serendipity!
Yeah, I know, my FB cronies ROCK. So what are some of YOUR favs? Post in the comments–and I’ll be extra impressed for those of you able to make a sentence out of 5 or more of the above words that actually make sense. *eg* Don’t miss the hilarious video at the end of the blog, too, with more word-icity.
Monday Mentions is the mash-up-day of all the neato-torpedo writer links and videos, pet schtuff and bling and writer-icity crappiocca collected over the past week. Lots of contests today for cat videos, best veterinarian, dog heroes and pet blogs so be sure to enter and/or nominate your favs. For new followers to the blog, welcome! and you can expect more cat and dog specific schtuff later in the week on Wednesday and Friday.
Your email:
WRITER-ICITY SCHTUFF
Penguin’s Solution for Authors just who benefits? Great post by David Gaughran.
Unattractive Contract at Random House’s HYDRA opined by Writer Beware in another interesting development
Traditionally Pub’d Authors Potentially Make Less here’s an interesting analysis on why indie/”hybrid” publishing is a positive choice
Want to Sell Gift Cards for Your Books? Here’s a plan…be sure to read the comments, too, some terrific ideas and tips
15 Ways to Build Your Subscriber List shared by my colleague Diane Capri
Turning Your Novel Into a Serial (no, not cereal…although that might be tasty!)
Get Your Book Reviewed by San Francisco Book Review
Forbes Article on Amazon Reader Buying Trends pointed out by the awesome Steena Holmes
Blue Mountain Arts Seeks Greeting Card Freelancers “We are looking for highly original and creative submissions on friendship, family, special occasions, positive living, and other topics one person might want to share with another person. Submissions may also be considered for inclusion in book anthologies. We pay $300 per poem for all rights to publish it on a greeting card and $50 if your poem is used only in an anthology.”
William Bernhardt Writing Seminars in Oklahoma City in April and June, highly recommended
Dogs In Canada Revived! new life for this prestigious magazine
Ghost Story With Cats from my colleague Dusty Rainbolt–based on a chilling REAL experience (see the video, below)
PET-CENTRIC SCHTUFF
Food Stamps for Pets to help feed the furry family members of those needing help. PAWsome! Check out the video below, too.
My Cat’s Story Video Contest! get your camera’s rolling, this is great fun for you and your cats
America’s Favorite Veterinarian Contest share why your vet’s the cat’s meow (and puts the wag in your dog’s swag!)
“Dear Future Me” a charming dog-blog and an incredibly moving post of a dog’s wish for his canine successors
How To Be A Responsible Cat Owner many of these apply to dogs, too
Hero Dog Awards Nominations Open from American Humane
BlogPaws Announces Conference Speakers and guess who is speaking? *s* (moi!) This topical actually fits under both writer and pet shtuff, and the conference May 16-18 just outside Washington, DC is THE place for pet-centric bloggers of every kind to learn about social media, blogging, and even monetizing your work. (Yep, bet those last three words made your furry lil’ ears prick up!) BlogPaws also has awards for pet bloggers–I’ve already nominated a BUNCH of my favorite pet-centric blogs out there, and this is your chance to also nominate your furry must-reads. Sure, I’d be flattered to receive a nomination…but this isn’t a popularity contest so there’s no need for bunches of folks to “vote.” Here’s the details:
Nominations for the 2013 BlogPaws Nose-to-Nose Social Media and Pet Blogging Awards
Nominations open at 12:00 PM EST, Wednesday, February 27th and close at 3:00 PM EST Friday, March 8th. Click on the image for the category you would like to nominate a Blog, Facebook Page or Twitter Page for. These images are the badges that the finalists will receive. For complete rules and regulations please visit our BlogPaws Official Rules and Regulations page.
To nominate a blog for “Best Blog Design” or “Best Blog Writing” or “Best Humor Blog”:
To nominate a blog for “Best Bark Blog” or “Best Meow Blog” or “Best Wiggle Blog”:
To nominate a blog for “Best New Blog” or “Best Cause Blog” or “Best Blog Video”:
To nominate a blog for “Best Blog Photo” or “Best Facebook Design” or “Best Twitter Design”:
Please be sure to read the BlogPaws Official Rules and Regulations.
I love hearing from you, so please share comments and questions. Do you have an ASK AMY question you’d like answered? Do you have a new kitten and need answers? Stay up to date on all the latest just subscribe the blog, “like” me on Facebook, listen to the radio show, check out weekly FREE PUPPY CARE newsletter, and sign up for Pet Peeves newsletter. Stay up to date with the latest book give aways and appearances related to my THRILLERS WITH BITE!
