Amy Shojai's Blog, page 120

First Aid Pet Medicine Chest

While your veterinarian diagnoses and prescribes for your pet’s health issues, first aid as well as minor problems may benefit from human medicines. Let’s face it, Fido and Sheba rarely tears a claw or eats something ify during regular clinic hours, so it’s helpful to know how to use your pantry supplies and human medicine chest to help your cat or dog. Some people prescriptions can be dangerous (especially for cats!) so it’s a good idea to have a handy list. You can find a number of first aid how-to articles here, as well.

First aid and home remedies don’t replace proper veterinary care, but they can keep pets more comfy until medical care is available. And sometimes a home remedy is all that’s needed. Even if human meds work, the doses usually are lower due to the smaller size of the pet. Your vet can tell you the exact dose needed for your specific pet but here are some common human medicines that benefit pets.

Common Human Medicines for Pets

 A & D Ointment: antibacterial for scrapes and wounds.
Artificial Tears: eye lubricant
Aveeno Oatmeal Bath: soothing rinse for itchy skin
Benadryl: antihistamine for bug bites—also makes pets sleepy
Betadine: antiseptic for cleansing/soaking wounds or injuries
Burow’s solution: topical antiseptic
Caladryl: soothing topical for pain or itching
Cortaid: anti-itch cream
Desitin: for skin inflammation
Dramamine: helpful for car sickness, nausea
Dulcolax: for constipation
Epsom salts: for soothing soak for sore paws
Kaopectate: to control diarrhea
Lanacane: topical anesthetic
Massengill Disposable Douche: body odor/skunk spray
Metamucil (unflavored): for constipation
Mylanta Liquid: for digestive problems and/or gas
Neosporin: to help prevent wound infection
Pedialyte: counteracts dehydration
Pepcid AC: to control vomiting
Pepto-Bismol: for diarrhea, nausea, vomiting
Phillips’ Milk of Magnesia: for constipation
Preparation H: soothes sore bottom
Solarcaine: topical anesthetic, helpful for sunburn
Vicks VapoRub: for congestion
Witch hazel: topical antiseptic

23 Helpful Household Items

In the best of all possible worlds, emergencies never happen or if they do, pet owners have a professional medical kit handy. These should be stocked with sterile gauze pads in different sizes, elastic Ace bandages, needle-less syringes and eyedroppers for medication and even stretchers. You can buy commercial kits from pet supply stores or put together your own, and it’s very helpful to have a handy pet first aid how-to guide handy.

But all too often pet owners don’t think about being prepared until after the first emergency. If you find yourself faced with a doggy or kitty health crises you may be surprised how many everyday items around the house or in your pantry can be helpful. I’ve lifted most of the tips in today’s blog from my pet first aid book–where you can find more specifics .

Blanket/cookie sheet/ironing board: stretcher
Bubble Wrap: stabilize leg fracture/injury
Canned Pumpkin: for constipation or diarrhea
Condoms: to cover injured/bleeding paw
Dawn Dishwashing Soap: decontaminate fur
Heat pad: for arthritis/aches
Hose/sink spray: flushing wounds
Hydrogen peroxide (3%): given orally to prompt vomiting
Ice bag/frozen peas: topical pain control
Karo syrup/honey: for shock
KY Jelly: lubricant such as for eye out of socket
Olive oil: to suffocate/kill ear mites
Pliers: remove porcupine quills/foreign object in mouth
Pantyhose/necktie: muzzle
Mustache trimmer: clip fur around wounds
Needle/Safety pin: acupuncture CPR
Teabags, soaked and cooled: to treat hot spots
Turkey baster: flush wounds, give liquid medicine
Rectal thermometer
Saran Wrap: seals wounds, holds bandage together without sticking to fur
Sterile Saline Solution: flush wounds, eye injuries
Squirt gun, squeeze bottle: give liquid medicine/flush wounds
Yogurt: settle digestion, control gas

 

I hope you’ll never have a pet emergency but better to be prepared. What pet emergencies have you faced? What did you do? After such an experience, what would you do different in the future?

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!

Injured Ass-ets & Tail Wag Trauma

That tail is one of the most expressive parts of the dog–or cat–body. It’s not unusual for a friendly flail to clear tabletops. But what can you do when the wagging wacks walls, and there’s trauma to twining tail tips? (say THAT fast five times!)

Big dogs like Labradors are so happy—and so large—that happy wagging bangs the tail tip bloody. Pet tails can also be shut in doors, stepped on, or otherwise hurt. Once injured, tails are very prone to re-injury and can stay sore and battered.

The condition isn’t a medical emergency but is painful for the dog or cat. It can also be messy when the injured tail splatters blood around the room. With chronic tail wag trauma, medical attention is needed to speed the healing, but home care also works well.

HOME FIRST AID FOR INJURED PET ASS-ETS

Benadryl has a sedative effect and is very safe. You can give one milligram for every pound the pet weighs to temporarily slow the wagging.

Hair not only hides the wound, it also collects bacteria and holds blood like a paintbrush. When the tail is very furry, carefully clip away the hair with blunt scissors. Electric clippers are a safer choice for fur removal.

Usually infection isn’t a problem, but it’s still best to quickly clean up the tail. The simplest and most effective technique is to dip the tail in a pan of cold water for several minutes. That rinses off the wound, helps stop the bleeding and reduces inflammation. Then gently pat the tail dry with a clean cloth.

If the dog or cat won’t allow tail dipping, apply an ice cube to the area to numb the pain and reduce swelling. The damage prompts the body to release chemicals called histamines that cause swelling and inflammation. Inflammation can break down the cells and cause permanent damage. Ice stops the process. Once the injury is clean and dry, apply a thin film of antibacterial ointment like Neosporin to help prevent infection.

BANDAGE TAILS

Bandage the tail to contain the bleeding (and protect your furniture), and pad the injury to keep your pet from re-injuring the sore spot.

Cat’s tails are particularly difficult to bandage, but for dogs, pull a clean cotton tube sock over the end of the tail. It should be long enough to cover two-thirds of the length of the tail itself. Then wrap tape over the sock, beginning at the tip of the tail and working toward the body, in a diagonal crisscross pattern. Be sure to run the tape two inches beyond the cuff of the sock and directly onto the fur. Finally, run the tape back down from the body to the tail tip, again in a diagonal pattern, which makes it difficult for the dog to pull off. This bandage technique (and others) are illustrated and described in pet first aid books.

Change bandages at least every three days, or oftener if it gets wet or dirty. Apply Neosporin to the area with each bandage change. If the veterinarian recommends you leave the tail uncovered, apply the ointment two to four times a day since dogs and cats tend to lick it off. Some pets may need a prescription tranquilizer to calm tail movement until it can heal.

A collar restraint also can keep him from chewing, licking or pulling at the bandage or tail injury. Or smear Vicks Vapor Rub on the bandage—the menthol odor repels most pets and keeps tongue and teeth at bay.

Some injuries require that the damaged tail tip amputated. If that happens, fur tends to grow over the end and hides the loss. Your pet will never miss the, er, missing link.

Make some changes in the pet’s environment to avoid a repeat of the tail trauma. Bigger dogs need larger areas where they can swing their tails without banging walls, or clearing off the coffee table.

Has your dog (or cat) ever suffered a tail injury? How did it happen? What treatment was required? Do tell!

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!

Monday Mentions: Veterinarians, Vaccines, Snakes & Cheese

Amy with Tina Martinez of Morris Animal Foundation at the reception celebrating 65 years helping animals!

This past week has been a challenge–exciting, fun, head-pounding angst, and more. This blog migrated from one server to a new one that also hosts my author/speaker website and there were a few hiccups along the way. Not all subscribers automatically transferred over   and so I hope you’ll please SHARE this blog with all your pet-centric fur-loving and writer-icity friends and colleagues to get the Bling, Bitches & Blood back on track.

If y’all are ever in need of a guru to help with a blog migration, check out Tanya at Blogelina.com. She made it as painless and saved me many-several gray hairs.

Part of those gray hairs had to do with scheduling the move at the same time I was out of town. I attended the 85th Western Veterinary Conference in Las Vegas, and my eyeballs nearly fell out of my head with all the reading, computer-note-taking, and video-picture-collecting needed. Yep, that’s why I’m wearing glasses in the picture.

I heard veterinarian and other expert speakers expound on the latest innovations in cat and dog health and behavior and attended dozens of sessions. The exhibition hall offered even more great information.

My–head–nearly–exploded! Hopefully, the info won’t leak out my ears before I get everything transcribed.

One of the highlights was attending a Morris Animal Foundation reception celebrating their 65th anniversary–wow! Lots of milestone anniversaries. There also were lots of NEW schtuff that I’ll report on as I’m able to catch my breath. An exciting innovation to watch is ZEUTERIN from Arc Sciences that allows the boy doggies to be neutered without surgery (they’re working on a cat version, never fear!). There’s also some new ways of checking to see if your pet NEEDS that vaccination booster or can wait a bit with an antibody screening test called VacciCheck. And lots of news on the pet insurance front, too. That’s just the tip of the furry iceberg, too–I have an 8-inch stack of materials to sift through.

You can get a taste of what you missed in the video, below. Lots of furry fixes, too! (including snake venom info!).

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. This week, in honor of the Oscars, you’ll also find some screenwriting (and some teleplay) contests, thanks to my actor colleagues.

From my International Thriller Writer buddies, you can get all the top thriller writers in one anthology, LOVE IS MURDER, out in paperback tomorrow!

WRITER-ICITY SCHTUFF

Amazon Changes Affiliate Rules and this blogger has his take on the situation.

Anthology Submissions Open from Writers Guide to EPublishing

Penguin Watching Partridge (India Imprint) from Writer Beware

Close-Up TV News & Radio Pay-To-Play I have gotten half a dozen pitches from these folks wanting me to pony-up major $$$ to be interviewed/featured. DON’T.

Facebook & Twitter App in Kindle lets you tweet/FB your opinion right from the book!

SCREEN-WRITER-ICITY

Nicholl Fellowship in Screenwriting sponsored by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, i.e. the Oscars.

  PAGE International Screenwriting Awards.

 Austin Film Festival Heart of Film Screenwriting Competition

Scriptapalooza.

Script Pipeline.

Blue Cat Screenwriting Competition.

PET-CENTRY SCHTUFF

The American Canardly Association, Registration for YOUR pet!

Cheetahs & Shelter Dogs, a win-win partnership *check out the VIDEO below, too!*

Apps for Cats to turn your tablet in the BEST EVAH CAT TOY! thanks to my cat behavior consultant colleague Beth Adelman

Cats Get Frank Lloyd Wright Digs, this is great–thanks to the awesome cat-centric Deb Barnes for the head’s up.

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!

Dogs Travel in Style with a Licensed to Drive!

My first dog HATED car rides, and would shiver, shake and cry the entire time inside the vehicle. That’s probably because he got car sick during his first-ever ride, and then later he began to associate the ride with vet visits and being left behind at a boarding kennel. No wonder he turned into a basket case! That was more than 20 years ago and I’ve learned a LOT since then.

We did things different with Magical-Dawg. And as a result, he loves car rides. He would drive the car if I let him.

Even if your dog is a reluctant rider, you can transform his hangdog attitude into a fun-loving car ride fanatic. Basically you use desensitization to help the dog associate cars with fun, happy experiences instead of scary memories of vet visits. Once your furry friend realizes a car ride means wonderful things–just like in this awesome video–he’ll look forward to trips–and he might even want to buy his own car!

He already has his Dog Tested. Dog Approved.TM license. Just sayin…*s*

CLICK on the license and it will take you to one of the most fun, clever APPs I’ve seen, where you can ask a dog’s advice–that is hilarious, type in your question and the dog on video answers! You can also input your dog’s info for the best Subaru/Canine fit, and even add your dog’s picture “driving” your favorite Subaru car. I’m afraid that might give Magical-Dawg ideas…I already have to hide the car keys. My favorite of the apps is the doggy drivers license (below). Be sure that you use a FAKE address if you do the license since it will be visible online.

And if your dog is a reluctant rider, scroll down for tips to change his canine mind–AND for a fun contest where you can win enough cash to keep him in treats for a very long time!

Make meal time car time. For very frightened dogs just set the bowl next to the car. If he’ll hop into the back seat, feed him there and make the car his go-to-dinner spot for a week. In between times, throw treats in the open car door for the dog to find, and play fun games near the car. He should learn that only these good things in life happen when you’re near the car.

Take the Wheel. For the next step, when your dog is having fun pigging out int he back seat or gnawing that puzzle toy, get in the front seat behind the steering wheel. Just sit there for a while, no big deal, then get out, so the pet understands nothing scary happens when you’re in the car with him. Do this for one day.

Start Your Engines. The next day, when you’re behind the wheel and your puppy’s munching treats in the back seat, start the car. Then turn off the motor and get out without going anywhere. Do this three or four times during the day until the pet takes it as a matter of course.

Drive the Driveway. Finally, after you start the car, back the car to the end of the driveway and stop—do this two or three times in a row, always letting the pooch out after you return. If he whines or paces or shows stress, you may be moving too fast for him. The process takes forever! but it works.

Reward Bravery. Don’t commiserate with whiny dogs–if you say “poor baby” and whine back, he’ll think he’s right to be concerned! Cheer him along, with jolly phrases, “Isn’t this FUN?! Car ride to the park to play ball!” and use words he likes (play, ball, treat) to change his car attitude.

Increase Duration. Increasing car-time by increments—a trip around the block and home, a trip to the park and home, a trip to a drive-through restaurant, and home. Go somewhere you know your dog will enjoy—get him French fries at the nearest fast food restaurant, or a doggy treat from the tellers at the bank. Make every car trip upbeat and positive so the experience makes the dog look forward to the next trip.

Ride Safe. Be sure your pet stays in the back seat rather than riding on your lap. These fun Subaru videos are just that–lots of tongue-in-furry-cheek fun but safety always comes first. Just as kids can be injured by airbags, your pets can be crushed even inside a carrier. Even though dogs WANT to drive, they can become furry projectiles in accidents, or get in the way of safe drivers when in your lap or under the pedals.

$$$ PRIZES! $$$

I’ve never offered a Rafflecopter give-away before but this was too good to pass up. It’s simple to enter–everyone must like Subaru’s Facebook page to enter, but the other 4 entries are optional and can be done once each day.The rafflecopter opens at 12:00 am ET on Monday, February 18th and closes at 11:59 pm ET on Sunday, February 24th. You can enter once every day as long as the raffle is open. One first place prize winner will receive a $350 Visa gift card and one second place prize winner will receive a $150 Visa gift card. The winners will be announced within 48 hours after the raffle closes. Click here to enter into this special Rafflecopter giveaway

Do your dogs love cars? How have you persuaded reluctant passengers to go the extra mile? Please share–and let me know how you like your doggy license! Betcha we could get a whole FLEET of dog-driven car maniacs, LOL!

Your email:

 

This post is sponsored by Subaru. The opinions expressed in this post are my own. 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!

9 Dental Issues You Share With Your Cats and Dogs

Could your dog’s breath melt your glasses? Does your cat’s smile look like five miles of bad road? Pet tooth problems are surprisingly similar to their owners’ dental issues. February is National Pet Dental Health Month and a good time to check out your pets’ pearly whites. Here are common dental issues you share with your cats and dogs, as well as ways to avoid them.

Stinky mouth odor referred to as halitosis develops when bacteria grows on the tooth surface or tongue. Mouthwash and chewing gum may mask your halitosis but dogs and cats don’t gargle. They don’t spit, either, making fluorinated products dangerous for pets when they’re swallowed. There are rinses that can be added to pet water bowls that help freshen breath, and dogs benefit from “dental” chew toys that offer some cleaning properties or incorporate bacteria-killing enzymes.
Plaque develops when bacteria mineralizes into hard yellow to brown deposits on the teeth, often at the gum line. People typically remove most of this by brushing, flossing, and even chewing “detergent-type” foods like apples. Some dogs enjoy carrots and apples but most pets tend to gulp mouthfuls of food without too much chewing. Cats and dogs also lack opposable thumbs that make brushing or flossing possible.
Gingivitis—redness and swelling of the gums—happens when the bacteria in the plaque releases enzymes that cause inflammation. People might see blood on the toothbrush. Owners might see blood on the dog’s chew toy.
Receding gums develop as a result of the inflammation, and forms pockets around the tooth that expose bone, leading to loose teeth and bone loss. People with painful mouths and loose teeth complain to the dentist. But cats and dogs generally eat through the pain without showing much discomfort until it’s very bad.
Periodontal disease (decayed teeth, sore gums, bleeding mouths) affects 80 percent of pets by the age of three. Besides mouth and tooth problems, chewing pumps bacteria into the bloodstream and that damages the heart, liver and kidneys in both people and pets.
Cavities don’t affect pets in the same way as people, but cats can develop a sneaky kind of cavity called resportive lesions. The decay is hidden and starts at or below the gum line, eating the tooth from the inside out and leaving a fragile shell that can break. Up to 75 percent of cats with dental disease have one or more lesions that usually can’t be fixed.
Brushing teeth, as with people, is the first line of defense. Yes, you can teach pets to tolerate or even welcome tooth brushing. Meat-flavored toothpastes with plaque-retardant enzymes and pet-size brushes used after each meal—or at least a couple of times a week—help enormously to reduce bad breath and plaque control.
Dentistry treats pet teeth in a similar fashion as humans but since dogs and cats won’t open wide and say “ah” a professional veterinary dentistry requires anesthesia.  Trying to clean pet teeth without anesthesia can be much less effective. Most veterinarians provide ultrasonic scaling, polishing, tooth extraction and antibiotics with pain medication when necessary. Veterinary dental specialists also perform root canals, provide crowns and even offer pet orthodontia (braces) to correct misaligned teeth that cause the pet discomfort.
Dental “treats” and specially formulated diets are available to improve cat and dog dental health. Look for the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) Seal of Acceptance, which endorses such products.

Keep both your relationship and your pets’ breath smelling sweet. Don’t limit it to this month, either, but use the opportunity to “brush up” on the facts of your pet’s tooth health.

(This article originally was published by the Huffington Post).  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!

Dogs Travel in Style with a Licensed to Drive!

My first dog HATED car rides, and would shiver, shake and cry the entire time inside the vehicle. That’s probably because he got car sick during his first-ever ride, and then later he began to associate the ride with vet visits and being left behind at a boarding kennel. No wonder he turned into a basket case! That was more than 20 years ago and I’ve learned a LOT since then.

We did things different with Magical-Dawg. And as a result, he loves car rides. He would drive the car if I let him.

Even if your dog is a reluctant rider, you can transform his hangdog attitude into a fun-loving car ride fanatic. Basically you use desensitization to help the dog associate cars with fun, happy experiences instead of scary memories of vet visits. Once your furry friend realizes a car ride means wonderful things–just like in this awesome video–he’ll look forward to trips–and he might even want to buy his own car!

He already has his Dog Tested. Dog Approved.TM license. Just sayin…*s*

CLICK on the license and it will take you to one of the most fun, clever APPs I’ve seen, where you can ask a dog’s advice–that is hilarious, type in your question and the dog on video answers! You can also input your dog’s info for the best Subaru/Canine fit, and even add your dog’s picture “driving” your favorite Subaru car. I’m afraid that might give Magical-Dawg ideas…I already have to hide the car keys. My favorite of the apps is the doggy drivers license (below). Be sure that you use a FAKE address if you do the license since it will be visible online.

And if your dog is a reluctant rider, scroll down for tips to change his canine mind–AND for a fun contest where you can win enough cash to keep him in treats for a very long time!

Make meal time car time. For very frightened dogs just set the bowl next to the car. If he’ll hop into the back seat, feed him there and make the car his go-to-dinner spot for a week. In between times, throw treats in the open car door for the dog to find, and play fun games near the car. He should learn that only these good things in life happen when you’re near the car.

Take the Wheel. For the next step, when your dog is having fun pigging out int he back seat or gnawing that puzzle toy, get in the front seat behind the steering wheel. Just sit there for a while, no big deal, then get out, so the pet understands nothing scary happens when you’re in the car with him. Do this for one day.

Start Your Engines. The next day, when you’re behind the wheel and your puppy’s munching treats in the back seat, start the car. Then turn off the motor and get out without going anywhere. Do this three or four times during the day until the pet takes it as a matter of course.

Drive the Driveway. Finally, after you start the car, back the car to the end of the driveway and stop—do this two or three times in a row, always letting the pooch out after you return. If he whines or paces or shows stress, you may be moving too fast for him. The process takes forever! but it works.

Reward Bravery. Don’t commiserate with whiny dogs–if you say “poor baby” and whine back, he’ll think he’s right to be concerned! Cheer him along, with jolly phrases, “Isn’t this FUN?! Car ride to the park to play ball!” and use words he likes (play, ball, treat) to change his car attitude.

Increase Duration. Increasing car-time by increments—a trip around the block and home, a trip to the park and home, a trip to a drive-through restaurant, and home. Go somewhere you know your dog will enjoy—get him French fries at the nearest fast food restaurant, or a doggy treat from the tellers at the bank. Make every car trip upbeat and positive so the experience makes the dog look forward to the next trip.

Ride Safe. Be sure your pet stays in the back seat rather than riding on your lap. These fun Subaru videos are just that–lots of tongue-in-furry-cheek fun but safety always comes first. Just as kids can be injured by airbags, your pets can be crushed even inside a carrier. Even though dogs WANT to drive, they can become furry projectiles in accidents, or get in the way of safe drivers when in your lap or under the pedals.

$$$ PRIZES! $$$

I’ve never offered a Rafflecopter give-away before but this was too good to pass up. It’s simple to enter–everyone must like Subaru’s Facebook page to enter, but the other 4 entries are optional and can be done once each day.The rafflecopter opens at 12:00 am ET on Monday, February 18th and closes at 11:59 pm ET on Sunday, February 24th. You can enter once every day as long as the raffle is open. One first place prize winner will receive a $350 Visa gift card and one second place prize winner will receive a $150 Visa gift card. The winners will be announced within 48 hours after the raffle closes. Click here to enter into this special Rafflecopter giveaway

Do your dogs love cars? How have you persuaded reluctant passengers to go the extra mile? Please share–and let me know how you like your doggy license! Betcha we could get a whole FLEET of dog-driven car maniacs, LOL!

This post is sponsored by Subaru. The opinions expressed in this post are my own. 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!

Monday Mentions: Migration, Vet Conference, Audio Book & Award!

IT’S ALIVE! Yes, this is my third AUDIO book publication this time for ComPETability: Cats. I just got word that it’s available and should be on the amazon.com book page soon, as well.

If all has gone as planned, my blog migrated successfully to a new server this past weekend. Chances are, you won’t notice much of a difference, but I’ll be able to more with design, analytics, and other fun “schtuff.” I was confused about setting up this blog and assumed that a “wordpress.com” was the more official/professional version compared to a “wordpress.org”

WRONG!

So although the URL will stay the same, the backside/hidden part of the blog is now hosted on my own server in the same place as my official shojai.com website (and not on WordPress). That allows me to do more with customization that wasn’t possible before. My buddy Cokie the Cat of Blogpaws set me straight on this and directed me to the Internet genius who did all the heavy *and invisible* lifting this past weekend to get me flying right. If you have a Blogger or a wordpress.com site and want to switch, take a look at Blogelina for some explanation and maybe she can help you out, too.

As for flying right, later today I flap my virtual arms and land at the Western Veterinary Conference in Las Vegas. It’s a working trip. I get to attend seminars on the latest cat and dog behavior and care information available from some of the most brilliant animal experts from around the world. This is an event I’ve missed for a couple of  years, so I’m delighted to return. I’ll be fulfilling my continuing education requirements as an IAABC Certified Behavior Consultant, but also researching future articles for this blog, my  puppies.About.com site, and updates to some of my books.

That’s my other big news–for the second year, my Puppies Site has won the prestigious Maxwell Medallion from the Dog Writers Association of America for “Best Dog Website.” ArrrrroooooooooooooooOOOOOOOOO! Magical-Dawg would take credit…but he’s not a puppy anymore.

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. It’s a bit short this time but I’ll make up for it when I download all the terrific schtuff from Vegas. Be sure to check out the “virtual” writer conference, and the wonderful videos, below.

WRITER-ICITY SCHTUFF

WANA-CON Worldwide Writing Conference an entirely online event so you save on airfare, hotel cost–and can attend in your jammies! Click the logo, above, for a PDF of the schedule and check out Kristen Lamb’s blog on the subject for the nitty gritty.  And yes, I’ll be there, too.

PET-CENTRIC SCHTUFF

This is an AWESOME tribute to the pet rescuers/caretakers of 911 . . .

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!

How to Love Your Cat

Cats are great actors and try to convince pet parents they’re already purr-fectly healthy and happy. With cats, it’s Valentine’s Day every day and a good time to think “outside the litter box” and find special ways to love your cat.

Your fur kids are more interested in playtime and fun activities, and these do help kitties both emotionally healthy and happy. Figure out what makes your cat purr delight. Depending on the cat, the emotional connection with their pet parents is top of the list. That’s not to say that all cats are cuddle-bugs or touchy-feely felines. For some cats, simply spending time in the same room and gazing with adoration is the ultimate in cat love.

Some cats wear their heart on their fur . . . Photo Copr. Caroline Golon (used with permission)

Cat comfort is another important issue for your pets. Every cat is an individual, so while one cat loves to swing from the drapes and meet new people, strangers could be a horror movie for other cats. A lot of that has to do with your cat’s socialization and parentage. One of the most generous resolutions is to accept each cat as an individual and adjust our expectations—and resolutions—to each special cat. Here are six ways you can share Valentine’s love and increase your cat’s purrs.

Schedule Play. Not every cat enjoys play and mostly the youngsters under a year go nuts for interactive play. Cat teasers like fishing pole lures offer a great aerobic workout for cats. It gets them off their tubby tails to help slim them down. Play increases the bond you share with your cat and can boost the confidence of shy felines and burn off the energy of bully cats that pick on others. Cats play in short bursts so schedule 10 minutes a couple times a day to play with your cats.

Provide Scratch Ops. Cats scratch to exercise, mark territory and relieve stress. Offering your cat legal scratching outlets makes her happy and keeps her physically healthy as well. Some cats won’t want to share their favorite scratch post so be sure you have at least one for each kitty.

Offer A Bed. Cozy fuzzy beds make cats purr with delight. Set a bed under a lamp and you’ll be your feline’s favorite buddy ever! Older cats especially appreciate soft spots to lounge, especially since cats spend up to 16 hours a day napping.

Provide Hideouts. Cats love hiding spots. You can offer an empty box or shopping bag to satisfy many cats. Cat tunnels work great in multiple pet households to reduce feline stress, too. Cats don’t like other pets to stare at them, so a cat tunnel lets kitty travel “under the radar” to reach important locations such as the litter box. Cat tunnels can reduce the hissy behavior between cats since they don’t have to face each other. Learn more about soothing cat angst in the ComPETability: Cat book. It’s just been published in audio version, too!

Create Entertainment. You wouldn’t think cats get bored but they evolved as hunting machines. Sleeping all day stores up enormous energy and indoor cats look for entertainment outlets. Set up bird houses and bird baths near windows for your cat’s viewing pleasure, as a sort of “kitty TV.”

Understand Kittens. I’m sure you’re already a savvy kitty “parent” but purr-haps you know someone who’d like extra help. As a Valentine’s gift for kitten lovers, I’ve dropped the Ebook price of Complete Kitten Care to 99-cents for Feb 14, 15 & 16.

How do you love your cat? Are there special toys or activities that your felines particularly enjoy?

Please also share the fun on Facebook.

 

THE BLOG MAY BE TEMPORARILY OFF-LINE THIS WEEKEND–
IT’S BEING MIGRATED TO A NEW SERVER,
THANKS TO BLOGELINA!

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!

Filed under: Cat Behavior & Care Tagged: Amy Shojai, behavior, cat care, cats, how to love your cat, kittens, www.amyshojai.com

Valentine’s Day Books!

Today’s hottest ebooks are on sale under $5 from Feb 14-16 only!

Mystery, romance, young adult, PETS!

there’s something for everyone …

… including the chance to win 1 of 4 $25 Amazon gift cards!

Check out the Indie Book Festival’s Valentine E-book Sale!

Kitten Lovers? Get the book for 99-Cents!

AND THERE’S MORE!

Click on the books to read more about them and buy.

[image error] [image error]

Filed under: Writing Advice & More Tagged: Amy Shojai, books, Complete Kitten Care, www.amyshojai.com

How to Love Your Dog

Our dogs give us unconditional love, and never care that we have a bad hair day, forget to change our socks or brush our teeth—actually, they might like that! They greet us at the door like heroes bearing treasures, and always offer a happy wag and eager smooch. Whether dogs snuggle to share our joy, or pester us out of a blue mood with a game of fetch, they love us 24/7/365.

That’s one of the many reasons dog lovers consider them part of the family. It’s only natural for us to return the affection on Valentine’s Day. Here are some ways to return the furry favor and make Valentine’s Day special for your dog.

Offer Puzzles. Valentine’s means “treating” our dogs in special ways, but we don’t want to “love them to death” by making them fat with too many calories. It doesn’t take much to treat dogs, especially when you offer pungent tidbits inside a puzzle dispenser. That encourages dogs to use their brains, too—yet another loving bonus.

Keep Teeth Clean. Most dogs get bored with the same old food and relish a tidbit that makes them feel special. Some treats also keeps those fangs clean and bright, too. Nothing says “love” more than keeping dogs healthy, because it means more years together.

Boost Health With Supplements. Healthy dogs might not need extra help, but when your veterinarian suggests more is needed supplements may be just the ticket. A variety are available that do everything from aid with digestion to ease creaky arthritic joints in senior dogs.

Give A Gift. Some dogs can’t get enough of toys, while others prefer treats or a game at the dog park. You know your dogs best so indulge them this Valentine’s Day with a new chew toy, stuffed animal, or day at the park.

Schedule Love Time. In our busy lives, we often put off “extras” until later or offer less valuable substitutes like tossing a treat when a dog asks for attention. While dogs love treats and toys, you can offer no greater love than sharing time with them. Every dog is different so figure out what delights the tail wiggles in your canine friend, and put it on your daily schedule.

Offer A Doggy Condo. A variety of kennels and crates come in various sizes and styles to fit your dog’s needs as well as your decorating ideas. You can situate the crate in a back room, or in the middle of the action in the living area. A decorative throw rug placed over the top of wire crates turns them into stylish furniture accents while giving the dog some privacy. To make it extra special, why not add a special bowl inside the crate where you can leave treat “surprises” now and then to make the space even more welcoming.

Create A Napping Zone. Special beds sized to snuggle puppies or soothe arthritic old dog bones are available. These work extremely well to offer a welcoming space especially on less than appealing hard floors. For the little dogs, you can set a dog bed on the end of a sofa or your own bed to get them out from underfoot and protect the upholstery or bedding. Adding a bed underneath a table works well, too, and creates a cave-like retreat that many dogs relish.

Open (Or Close) A Door. Another great way to create a special place for your dog is to employ a “pet door” that opens into an enclosed porch, or even into an interior room designed with their needs in mind. Pet doors can be installed in existing solid or sliding glass doors so the dogs can come and go as they wish. Another option is to use a “pet gate” that installs in an open doorway or hall. That way an owner can control access to areas as requirements change. For instance, a pet gate can provide a barrier to a staircase so your dog’s sanctuary remains the downstairs area at bedtime.

What float’s your dog’s boat? Do you have special Valentine’s Day plans for your fur-kid? Please share!

  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!

Filed under: Dog Training & Care Tagged: Amy Shojai, dog behavior, dog care, how to love dogs, Valentines, www.amyshojai.com