Amy Shojai's Blog, page 82

Cat Writers Association Interviews AAFP

Cat Writers Association Interviews AAFP

Many of y’all know that I’m a member and one of the founders of the Cat Writers Association. This year, I’m also helping with organizing our annual conference, which this year will take place in conjunction with the BlogPaws.com conference in June. And yes, YOU ARE INVITED, ya don’t have to be a member of either or both organizations to attend. Lots of great writerly and blog-istic learning ops, as well as many dogs, cats ferrets and other companion animals in attendance.

A highlight of the CWA conference is the awards banquet for the best published cat work of the contest season, and the AAFP — American Association of Feline Practitioners — is one of our sponsors.

I’m delighted that our CWA president Marci Kladnik took the time to interview CWA member Dr. Elizabeth Colleran about the AAFP, cat friendly practices, working with CWA members, and getting some cat-astic info out to writers to share with their cat loving peeps. Dr. Colleran will also be a panelist at the CWA Conference in June but here’s a preview taste. Enjoy this 30 minute video interview (and yes, I couldn’t resist…I added a few questions myself).

I learned some fun stuff about cats that surprised me–take a minute and post your surprises in the comments, too. Oh, and feel free to share the video! Don’t the cats deserve to get their story told?

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 anew kitten and need answers? Stay up to date on all the latest just subscribe the blog, “like” me on Facebook, and sign up for Pet Peeves newsletter. Stay up to date with the latest book give aways and appearances related to my September Day pet-centric THRILLERS WITH BITE!

AMY SHOJAI'S Bling, Bitches & Blood - Practical Solutions for Pets Problems & Publishing

How to Deal With Copyright Infringement

“I own this content!”

Sometimes crappiocca happens when you’re writer, and some of the most angst inspiring have to do with copyright infringement. Whether you’re a new blogger, an established writer, or even a well known author, it’s a given that work will be copied, stolen, pirated and/or used illegally at some point in your career. Sometimes this is done by the clueless–if you’re a writer/blogger, please educate yourself!–but other times, individuals or companies know it’s illegal but infringe your copyright anyway because they rarely suffer any consequences. After all, how many writers have extra funds to hire a lawyer?

As it turns out, I had to resort to that. Read on for a bit about what happened…but meanwhile, there are some no-cost ways writers and authors can fight back.

Writing about dogs (and cats) is serious business.

BOOK PIRATE SITES

Pirate sites may be the bane of authors and I hear many complaints from colleagues. They steal entire books, upload to “torrent” sites that offer free downloads or charge fees for access. That’s the same as if someone stole all the keys from a car rental company and gave them out for everyone to use. Hey, nobody would be surprised if some other professional (a plumber, for instance) objected to giving away work for free–yet artists are somehow expected to be “flattered” when work is stolen.

All my books are given away free in various places. I even give away a book when folks subscribe to my newsletter, but that’s MY choice!

I no longer pay attention to these pirate sites because most also are phishing schemes eager to get credit card info, or inject Trojan infections for visitors. Those who seek out my books for free wouldn’t buy them anyway, and if they get a virus, well…sorry, I have no sympathy.

ONLINE CLUELESS COPIES

There is a perception that if it’s “online” and free to read, then it’s up for grabs. Nuh-huh. And you do NOT need to file paperwork or pay a fee to “copyright” your work. From the moment of creation, the creator owns copyright in the work, which means the creator has all say in how that material is used, displayed, and distributed. You don’t even need to include that little C-in-a-circle or “copr.” notice.

It’s very easy with the Internet to cut-and-paste and post material somewhere else. And if you don’t mind, that’s fine–simply make a public statement to that effect, so it’s part of the cut-and-paste that’s sent around. But if you do want to control your content (and honestly, that’s the smart thing to do), it’s easy enough to “google” and find out your rights.

I’m not a lawyer and don’t even play one on TV but have learned all I can about copyright law to understand my business and protect my intellectual property. I worked as a legal assistant for several years and read and helped write countless contracts, which came in handy while vetting my own writing assignment and book contracts later. Here’s the deal: unless you have a contract granting another party the right to use your content in agreed upon ways, nobody but you can use your material. It doesn’t matter if they charge money, or offer it free of charge, they’re violating your copyright without that contract.

“Want to use my content? Get permission in WRITING!”

AMY’S EXPERIENCE
DEALING WITH
COPYRIGHT INFRINGEMENT

I’ve debated since January whether or not to go public about my recent experience, and decided to share what might be helpful to others. My situation is a bit different, as it entails several kinds of infringement all stemming from a contract dispute that is ongoing and not yet resolved. Therefore, for now I choose to redact the name of the parties involved–but may, indeed, “out” them in the future–and simply offer what has thus far worked to resolve the situation and how you may be able to benefit from these tips. This is the short version.

I was notified in early December 2015 that my contract with REDACTED would be terminated as of January 2, 2016. Further, I was assured the cancellation clause would be followed: my materials would be removed from the website(s) and no longer used in promotion of the company/products. They further informed me that they would not honor the termination payment portion of the contract. Of course, I objected, and requested they honor the terms of the cancellation clause in its entirety.

January 2 came…and went…and none of my material was removed, as they had promised and as the contract stipulated. My repeated requests to have my materials removed were met with excuses, and finally silence. In late February I hired an attorney who repeated my demands, whereupon REDACTED suddenly claimed they had decided to cancel the contract’s termination, so therefore I was still under contract and they had the right to continue using my materials–but without paying.

My attorney’s intervention ultimately resulted in removal of my author picture, reviews and videos from the site(s). However, all the articles/blogs and photos remained fully visible and promoted as Amy’s continued endorsement of the company/products.

These blogs and articles only came down last week, a full three months’ worth of copyright infringement, and not by their choice but due to a DMCA take down notice I filed. As I said, the contract dispute continues but at least (most) of my material has been removed–it’s still being used other places, but that’s a topic for another blog, perhaps.

Here’s how I finally got the blogs/articles with their photos removed.

DMCA TAKEDOWN NOTICE

It’s of course ALWAYS better to contact the infringing person/organization and 1) explain you own the material in question and 2) request it be removed. As I mentioned above, not everyone knows or understands (although ignorance does not excuse breaking the law). You may be satisfied for the infringement to simply be removed, or for most to be deleted and a link to YOUR site with the remainder to be provided. That’s up to you.

When the person/organization refuses to remove illegal use of your content, you can request that their internet host take steps to remove that content. DMCA is a part of US Copyright Law but also works with hosting companies in foreign countries. Remember, it’s the HOST and not the “registrar” of the website name. Here’s what you can do.

FIND INFRINGED MATERIAL

Don’t be a copy cat!

There’s a neat site I like where  you can check and see if your material has been copied and published illegally (or a part of it used elsewhere). A limited service is free, or you can purchase a premium account which is very economical. Simply copy and paste the content in dispute into the screen that comes up, and it will search for duplicates. Check out CopyScape.com — this is also helpful for folks who write a lot of material and you don’t want to plagiarize yourself!

UNCOVER THE WEBSITE HOST

There are a number of “whois” sites that will help you find information about a particular website, from the name of the person who filed the name, what company registered the URL, term dates and more. I typed in the url of one of the websites and discovered the name was registered through GoDaddy. After I contacted their complaints page, I received an email back referring me to discover the hosting company by looking it up on http://domainwhitepages.com/  I suspect there are other services that work well, too. You will find an email contact to send claims or disputes. Here’s a template that you can use. Just fill in the details pertinent to your situation.

Note: After I sent this, I was requested to be even more specific because in some cases, the blog text was my work but the image was not, while in other cases both were my work. I ended up sending the direct URLs to every infringed page on the two websites (more than 80 individual instances).

DMCA TEMPLATE

Attn: Copyright Agent, [company name here]

Pursuant to 17 USC 512(c)(3)(A), this communication serves as a statement that:

I am [the exclusive rights holder | the duly authorized representative of the exclusive rights holder] for [title of copyrighted material being infringed upon, and, if possible, additional identifying information such as ISBNs, publication dates, etc — or, if the material is a web page, the URL];
These exclusive rights are being violated by material available upon your site at the following URL(s): [URLs of infringing material];
I have a good faith belief that the use of this material in such a fashion is not authorized by the copyright holder, the copyright holder’s agent, or the law;
Under penalty of perjury in a United States court of law, I state that the information contained in this notification is accurate, and that I am authorized to act on the behalf of the exclusive rights holder for the material in question;
I may be contacted by the following methods (include all): [physical address, telephone number, and email address];

I hereby request that you remove or disable access to this material as it appears on your service in as expedient a fashion as possible. Thank you.
Regards,

[your full legal name]

FINAL THOUGHTS…

This has been a horrible experience for me, in part because I never would have worked with this company had I not trusted them to be honest and forthright.

Having contracts cancelled is a normal part of business. That never bothers me. Schtuff happens, and most contracts have a termination clause to address this. That clause, though, is just as enforceable as the rest of the contract.

I don’t know what will happen going forward, and am relying on my attorney to guide any next steps. I spent half of today searching my own blog for references to REDACTED and removing them…yes, I promoted them and their products here on nearly every blog while under contract.

Doh! Never again.

My reputation and my intellectual property is something I must fiercely protect. Nobody else cares as much about your work as you do–and nobody can do what you do as well as you. Never sell yourself short, or settle.  Be sure you know your rights, and understand any contract you sign.

Unfortunately, not everyone abides by contracts, even when they write the contract terms themselves. You can be sure I’ll be even more diligent in any future agreements. Today, though, I’m very grateful to have found a terrific advocate.

Heck, this may make it into the next thriller. Hmnnnn.

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, and sign up for Pet Peeves newsletter. Stay up to date with the latest book give aways and appearances related to my September Day pet-centric THRILLERS WITH BITE!

New “Post-It Note” #Dogs Trend Sweeping Country

APRIL FOOLS!!!

APRIL FOOLS!!!

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, and sign up for Pet Peeves newsletter. Stay up to date with the latest book give aways and appearances related to my September Day pet-centric THRILLERS WITH BITE!

7 Cat Scratch Training Tips: How to Stop Cat from Clawing

Using claws is a natural part of being a cat–even for kittens like this Siberian baby.

One of the top questions I receive involves how to stop cats from clawing. The answer is–you can’t! But you CAN teach them to scratch “legal” options instead of your furniture. As with other behavior “pet peeves,” the key is understanding the issue from the cat’s point of view.

How to stop a dog from barking got the most canine topic votes on my informal Facebook poll  so it’s time for the cats’ turn. Cat clawing is one of the common complaints so as a warm up, here’s some quick tips and in the future webinar I’ll expand the answers and give y’all some prescriptive how-to help. See, I want my next big project (an on demand pet behavior course) to answer YOUR must-know questions.

So here’s your turn. Fill in the blank in the comments: “I wish I knew how to fix my cat/dog’s (…..)”

Cats claw trees to mark territory.

Kittens and adult cats claw for many reasons. Clawing feels good and provides a great shoulder and leg workout. Clawing keeps nails healthy by cleaning off old layers. Clawing marks kitty territory with paw pad scent and visual cues of your shredded upholstery.

Clawing may raise your blood pressure, but it relieves feline stress, sort of like the kitty equivalent to human nail biting. In fact, upset cats often claw-target items that smell the most like a beloved human (your bed, your favorite chair), not because they’re angry or vindictive—but because they love you so much and scent-sharing makes them feel better. Karma uses me as a movable scratch object, and that’s fine as long as I’m wearing jeans…but bare legs, oh-my-cod!

Cat clawing is normal. You can’t stop this natural behavior. But you can redirect kitty claws to “legal” targets so she stays happy and healthy.

Offering a legal scratch target is one of the easiest ways to stop the claw damage.

Cat Scratching Post: Cats could care less about posts that complement your décor. Irresistible choices match the cat’s desires for texture and style. Does your cat scratch horizontally or vertically—or maybe overhead while scooting on her back? Does he target upholstery, carpet, soft fabric or hardwood? Choose accordingly. Scratch objects should be taller or longer than the cat’s full-length stretch as an adult (because kittens do grow!), and sturdy enough it won’t tip over under a full-out scratch assault.
Location: Scratching is territorial marking ruled by location. Cats want the whole world to see their scratch-graffiti so don’t hide the post away in a back room. Take cue from the location of the shredded sofa, or carpet on the stairs. Important pathways, lookouts (near windows), feeding stations and potty locations all fit the feline real estate criteria.
1+1 Rule: Provide a scratch object for every cat in the house—plus one. That means two cats should have at least three legal places to scratch, for example. Some cats won’t want to share and having posts in multiple locations means even a singleton cat has no excuse to use the bedroom mattress instead.
Timing: Cats love routine, and often scratch at the same times and places each day: after naps, after meals, as a greeting display (when you come home), after play. Schedule claw-training during these times.
Entice: Use a feather toy or other irresistible lure to draw the kitten’s attention to the right target. Tempt the kitten to climb and claw, and praise with soft happy encouragement. Older kittens and adults that react to catnip may be attracted to a catnip-spiked claw object. A tattered scratched up post looks good to the cat, so don’t replace it. And catch kitty in the act of doing it right, and praise praise praise!
Train: Make the legal scratch object irresistible while making furniture unattractive—at least until the kitty accepts the proper post. Place the legal scratch object right in front of the scratched sofa, until the cat changes scratch-allegiance to the legal target. Double-sided sticky tap feels nasty to paws, for example. Depending on your furniture’s color, baby powder or cinnamon can be dusted on the furniture for a scented and poof-in-the-face reminder if claws hit. Interrupt wrong behaviors with a hand-clap or short hissing sound and then redirect to the right object and praise.

Trimming claws reduces damage to furniture if kitty forgets.

7. Trim Claws: Needle sharp kitten claws are easy to trip with human nail clippers. There’s no rule you must trim all at one time—do one claw each night when Junior sleeps on your lap. Gently press the pad to express the claw, and clip just the sharp end, and avoid the pink. Dull claws do less damage even if Junior forgets. Kittens that accept claw trims grow into adults that accept paw handling, too. Vinyl nail covers (in fashion colors) also are an option. These glue onto the cat’s claws to prevent clawing damage but grow out and must be replaced regularly.

Every kitten is an individual. Some rarely scratch at all, while others become scratch-aholics, especially during emotional upset. Stay tuned for announcements about the webinars and more “Kitty Aptitude Training (KAT)” help to positively manage your kitten’s claws-and-effect (and other pets peeves).

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, and sign up for Pet Peeves newsletter. Stay up to date with the latest book give aways and appearances related to my September Day pet-centric THRILLERS WITH BITE!

Why Dogs Bark & How to Stop A Dog from Barking

Dogs bark to communicate–so what’s he saying?

How to stop a dog from barking got the most canine topic votes on my informal Facebook poll (stay tuned for a cat-centric one, too!). See, I want my next big project (an on demand pet behavior course) to answer YOUR must-know questions.

So here’s your turn. Fill in the blank in the comments: “I wish I knew how to fix my cat/dog’s (…..)”

STOP BARKING NOW with AMY’S 3 EASY TIPS!

WHY DOGS BARK

On Facebook, some of the comments were very specific. Some of these included:

barking at motorcycles and skateboards (bicycles are a biggie, and so are joggers!)
barking at doorbells
barking at doorbells on TV
barking at other dogs
barking in the back yard
barking when (known) visitors arrive

The key to stop dogs barking is to understand why the dog barks. There’s no single answer, but in all cases, the dog is REWARDED (gets something s/he wants) out of the barking. It’s a simple cause/effect situation. Take a look again at the above complaints, and see where they might fit in this list of some common barking reasons. And then, ask yourself–how do I respond to the barking?

Play bark (“Gotta shout about the game!”)
Howdy-do bark (“Nice to see you.”)
Defensive bark (“I’m scared, go away.”)
Offensive bark (“It’s MY property, don’t come near!”)
Fire alarm bark (“warning, Will Robinson!”)
“Look at that!” bark (strangers, friends, garbage truck, your new hat, SQUIRREL!)
Boredom bark (“Come entertain me…”)
Lonely (“Poor me.”)

Personally, I want my Magical-Dawg to bark. You should want YOUR dog to bark, too–at the appropriate times. I don’t want him silent when that burglar prowls outside. So after several barks, he gets praise and then a treat (and it’s hard for dogs to bark while chewing).

HOW TO STOP A DOG FROM BARKING

How do you stop barking? It sounds counter-intuitive, but to teach dogs to SHUSH you must first teach them to SPEAK on command. Here’s how.

Set up “trigger” situations with the doorbell, a friendly visitor, or whatever gets the bark-aholic going.
Just as the doorbell rings, say “SPEAK.”
When the dog barks, praise him and offer a toy or treat or whatever floats his boat as a reward.

It will take several repeats before your dog recognizes that the command SPEAK means permission to yap. Practice this (even without the doorbell), and for the first several days ALWAYS reward the dog with a yummy or fun game he loves. Once the lightbulb goes off in his furry noggin, and he recognizes he gets PAID to bark on command, he’ll be eager to win your approval with this new skill.

Once he will SPEAK on command, it’s time to teach SHUSH. That’s easy–after he’s barked, do NOT give him the reward, but instead say SHUSH…and hold out the treat in your closed fist. Dogs stop barking to sniff and chew, so that typically stops the noise mid-yap. Give him the treat, while repeating GOOD SHUSH, while he chomps the yummy.

Again, it will take several repeats, but that’s the basics. You’ll slowly expand the amount of time he must SHUSH in order to earn the treat. Once your dog knows both SPEAK and SHUSH, you’ll be ready to move on to practice in the specific circumstances that are most bothersome.

I’d love to help you stop your dog barking, with more prescriptive how-to tips. Stay tuned for the FREE WEBINAR announcement and details about the forthcoming on-demand series.

Meanwhile, don’t forget to get YOUR biggest pets peeves on my list. Fill in the blank in the comments: “I wish I knew how to fix my cat/dog’s (…..)”

 

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, and sign up for Pet Peeves newsletter. Stay up to date with the latest book give aways and appearances related to my September Day pet-centric THRILLERS WITH BITE!

Pre-order Now! DOG FACTS, The Pet Parent’s A-to-Z Home Care Encyclopedia

DOG FACTS Pre-order Sale!

Kindle discounted from $9.99 to $2.99 until Wednesday March 16, 2106

This book has been 25 years in the making…may it be a boon to all of your canine companions. The print version ($24.99) boasts 650+ pages with more than 200 photos & charts, and releases along with all Ebook formats on APRIL 18, 2016.

THE PERFECT DOG BOOK!

More than 78 million pet dogs today are kept in fifty-four million U.S. households. Now, from one of the most trusted dog care authors of the last twenty-five years comes the definitive reference for adopting, keeping, and maintaining a healthy, happy dog. DOG FACTS: The Pet Parent’s A-to-Z Home Care Encyclopedia is designed to answer all your questions. How do I choose the right dog? What holistic help and preventive care should I give? Why do dogs act the way they do, and what dog behavior indicates illness? What constitutes an emergency, and how/when can I safely treat my dog with home care and first aid? Inside you’ll find:

An alphabetical A-to-Z listing, with more than 200 entries and 200+ cute dog photos and illustrations, covering everything from abscesses and hair loss to whipworms and zoonosis
Charts that list symptoms for a particular condition, the corresponding home care or first aid, the comparative veterinarian and holistic treatments, and preventive advice
A symptoms/conditions table that helps you identify what ailments might be bothering your dog
Breed-At-A-Glance chart to compare personality, looks, care challenges and other issues when choosing your purebred dog
A comprehensive, easy-to-use index that makes quick reference a snap
Contact information for dozens of dog organizations and veterinary resources

Accessible, yet comprehensive, DOG FACTS can be used with ease and trust. And doesn’t your dog deserve the very best?

Pre-order Here:

KINDLE
NOOK
iTUNES
KOBO

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, and sign up for Pet Peeves newsletter. Stay up to date with the latest book give aways and appearances related to my September Day pet-centric THRILLERS WITH BITE!

Thriller Thursday: John Connell & Spoils of Victory

Chills, thrills and spills with Thriller Thursday by Amy Shojai

THRILLER THURSDAY is a new occasional feature of Bling, Bitches & Blood. As a member of International Thriller Writers and alumni of the ITW Debut Author Program, it is my honor to showcase select ITW authors and books participating in the ITW Bloggers Program. If you love reading great books as much as I do, check out my guest John Connell! 

 

John A. Connell is the author of Ruins of War, and has worked as a cameraman on films such as Jurassic Park and Thelma & Louise and on TV shows including The Practice and NYPD Blue. Spoils of Victory is his second historical thriller featuring Mason Collins. He now lives with his wife in Madrid, Spain, where he is at work on his third  novel. 

 

 

Synopsis:
Former Chicago police detective, soldier, POW, and now-U.S. Army criminal investigator Mason Collins finds himself in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, a scenic Alpine ski town that managed to escape the destruction of the war. Garmisch-Partenkirchen is a far cry from Mason’s last harrowing post in the American Zone of Occupation in Munich just months after the Nazi’s defeat. But it is also the home of fleeing war criminals, a depository for the Nazis’ stolen riches. With millions of dollars to be made on the black market, murder, extortion, and corruption have become commonplace.
 
When an old war buddy of Mason’s, CIC Agent John Winstone, alerts him about a plot of a group of powerful men to take over the lucrative trade popping up there, Winstone and his girlfriend are brutally murdered. Determined to uncover the truth, Mason plunges into a shadowy labyrinth of co-conspirators including former SS and Gestapo officers, U.S. Army OSS officers, and liberated Polish POWs. As more witnesses and then evidence begin disappearing, it becomes obvious that someone on high is pulling strings to stifle the investigation—and that Mason must feel his way in the darkness if he is going to find out who in town has the most to gain—and the most to lose.

“A second installment just as terrific as the first – this is going to be a must-read series for me.” ~ Lee Child, #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Jack Reacher novels

“Excitement melds with adventure as the tangled threads gradually unwind, revealing treachery coming from all directions.  The whole thing is reminiscent of early-Robert Ludlum, and makes you clamor for more.” ~ Steve Berry, New York Times bestselling author of The Patriot Threat and The Templar Legacy

“Connell’s intense sequel to 2015’s Ruins of War… keeps readers guessing to the end.” ~ Publishers Weekly

GET THE BOOK AT BARNES & NOBEL and AMAZON

 

CONNECT with John here!

WEBSITE
FACEBOOK
TWITTER
GOODREADS

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 onFacebook, and sign up for Pet Peeves newsletter. Stay up to date with the latest book give aways and appearances related to my September Day pet-centric THRILLERS WITH BITE!

How to Give Old Dogs A #BrightMind #ad

This post is sponsored by Pro Plan BRIGHT MIND and the BlogPaws® Pet Influencer Network. I am being compensated for helping enrich the lives of senior dogs, but we only share information we feel is relevant to our readers. Pro Plan BRIGHT MIND is not responsible for the content of this article.

Magic, at age 9, acts like a dog half his age.

My baby-dog is now considered a senior dog—so very hard for me to believe! But in order to stay vital and connected to life, experts agree aging pets have different nutrition requirements than youngsters. Magical-Dawg has always been a fan of crunchy dry food, and (bad Amy!) I had been reluctant to change his diet since his vet checks and activity level were good. He’s always been a go-getter, highly athletic, and almost too busy—trying to keep him entertained can be a challenge.

Then I was invited to attend the Better With Pets event late last year and learned about a new Purina Pro Plan food. I even got to speak with the veterinary nutritionists who researched and created BRIGHT MIND Adult 7+ formula. I’m a pet journalist, and always on the lookout for innovative research that benefits our dogs. In this case, the product offered a personal benefit for my own furry wonder, so I was delighted to return home with a sample.

Magic gave it a paws-up when he taste-tested, and his enthusiasm rivaled that given to those tidbits he knows as TREETZ. As the resident dog of a pet writer/blogger, I’m reluctant to change up what works for the sake of a one-time blog post, so am very selective about what products I actually test with my pets. I wanted to know more—why change Magic’s food? What would be the benefit?

According to the Purina researchers, the glucose metabolism in a dog’s brain begins to change starting at age 7. That can affect memory, learning, awareness or decision making. I hadn’t really noticed any change in Magic’s behavior. Let’s face it, when you live with a pet 24/7, gradual changes may not be noticed while the big ones get your attention. But I was offered the opportunity to test the BRIGHT MIND formula, just to see if I noticed a change.

In fact, part of what convinced me to give it a go was my short video interview, below. If the human researchers believed so much in this ingredient that they used it on themselves, I could offer my beloved dog a 30-day trial, too.

We transitioned Magic to the new food over a period of about a week because some dogs get upset tummies with abrupt change. We mixed his former ration with the new in a 50/50 split and gradually increased the new food until he only ate the new diet. That was in mid-November, and I’ve been feeding Magic the BRIGHT MIND Adult 7+ formula exclusively ever since.

I had attributed Magic’s increased sleep and his “selective hearing” on the colder December-January months. Older dogs do lose hearing acuity, so I didn’t think that behavior change could possibly be affected by nutrition. Then Magic was diagnosed and treated for an ear issue (one ear only) in early February, yet his behavior between December and mid-February hadn’t changed measurably during that time.

Magic loves the new food!

Reality check here—I’d kept him on the BRIGHT MIND food not because of any behavior improvement, but because he loved it and I knew it was good for a senior dog. With chicken as the first listed ingredient, and EPA (an omega-3 fatty acid) and glusamine in the formulation, the benefits are clear, whether there’s a behavior improvement or not. But about two weeks ago, when I noticed a dramatic behavior change that I have to attribute, at least in part, to the new food.

I think you can even tell in the pictures. Look at his face in the one next to the bag, and then compare it to the one I just took, below.

Magic loves his Bear, and wants to play fetch constantly.

He solicits play—insistently and incessantly. He not only hears me (at a whisper once again), but is more attentive than I can remember. He sleeps through the night, and his paw stress-licking has declined. When I ask him to “find Bear,” he no longer must search, but remembers exactly where he last left the toy. I have my Magical-Dawg back again—the energetic, engaged, play-play-play-NOW! attitude from three or four years ago has returned! Never mind the white on his muzzle, Magic acts like he could run a marathon.

Magic loves his bear toy so much he bites and shakes him (that’s love!).

Yesterday morning at Magic’s annual wellness exam, he received a clean bill of health. Even his “senior dog” baseline blood panel looked great. What started out as professional curiosity and interest in an intriguing new nutrition concept has literally brightened the mind of my beloved Magical-Dawg. If you’re like me, you want that special bond to last forever—or at least as long as possible.

Now, if I could get ahold of those same enhanced botanical oils in the BRIGHT MIND food (an additional energy source for Magic’s brain) and add to my own diet, I would. Find out more about BRIGHT MIND here.

What about you? Do you have a dog age 7 or older? What sorts of aging changes have you noticed—and if you could turn back the clock, would you give it a try? Have you changed your dog’s food to a “senior” formulation?

Now’s the time to try. Spend $10 on any Purina® Pro Plan® product, 2/29-4/3. Save $10 on your next purchase of Purina® Pro Plan® Dry Cat or Dry Dog Food (14lbs. or larger) or Litter (6lbs or larger) by 5/1.

Note: Comments submitted may be displayed on other websites owned by the sponsoring brand.

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 anew puppy and need answers? Stay up to date on all the latest just subscribe the blog, “like” me on Facebook, and sign up for Pet Peeves newsletter. Stay up to date with the latest book give aways and appearances related to my September Day pet-centric THRILLERS WITH BITE!

PET POISON! 7 Top Toxins & Pet 1st Aid to Keep Cats & Dogs Safe

Easter lilies are highly toxic to pets, especially cats. Be safe this Easter season!

National Poison Prevention Week runs March 20-26, 2016, 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 pet poison first aid saves pet lives.

Dogs are particularly prone to poisoning because like human infants, they put everything in their mouths. 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 licked off during grooming.

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.

7 TOP PET POISONS & FIRST AID HELP

Poisonings from human medications (both over-the-counter and prescription meds) 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. Keep meds out of reach in pet-proof cabinets.
Chemical toxicity used to top the list but the safer flea and tick products have reduced the numbers of overdosing. Problems still happen when you misunderstand directions. What’s safe for a dog may be deadly for a cat! Wash your pet immediately if you suspect toxicity, and call the vet.
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–learn more here!
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. 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. Veterinarians have antidotes for some, and others require gastric lavage and supportive care. Pets may be poisoned by eating dead varmints that have succumbed to pest baits, too.

DANGER! Grapes are highly toxic and can quickly kill dogs.

5. Dogs love sweet flavors and often poison themselves by eating chocolate. Dark chocolate and Baker’s chocolate contains higher concentrations of the caffeine-like substance, theobromine, but even eating too much of that candy Easter bunny can prompt a bout of diarrhea and vomiting. Find out more about chocolate toxicity here.

6. Both fresh and dried grapes (raisins) are quite toxic in dogs. The exact poisonous substance that causes reaction isn’t known, and sensitivity varies from dog to dog. No dog should eat any amount of this fruit because even a small dose can be fatally toxic for your dog. Be particularly aware of wild grapes in the yard or fields.

The most dramatic and serious problem caused by grape/raisin toxicity is sudden kidney failure with lack of urine production. For unknown reasons, kidney failure is not seen in all dogs after ingestion of grapes or raisins. Researchers continue to investigate why some dogs die and others are not affected by the poison.

The first signs of distress often include vomiting and/or diarrhea with only a few hours of ingestion. After about 24 hours, you may see grapes or raisin pieces in the feces or vomitus. Affected dogs lose their appetite, become lethargic and unusually quiet. They may suffer abdominal pain, and “hunch” their back from the discomfort. Dehydration develops from the diarrhea and vomiting, but they only pass small amounts of urine. Eventually they stop urinating at all when the kidneys ultimately shut down. Prognosis is guarded, even when treated, and most dogs die once the kidneys stop producing urine. Grape/raisin toxicity is an emergency that needs prompt veterinary intervention.

7. Xylitol is a naturally-occurring sugar alcohol used for sweetening sugar-free products such chewing gum, candy, toothpaste and baked products. It also comes as a granulated powder. Both forms are highly toxic to dogs. Xylitol ingestion causes a rapid release of insulin in the dog, which in turn results in a sudden decrease in blood glucose levels. Depending on the size of your dog, a single piece of sugar-free gum may cause symptoms that result in death. The ingested substance may cause vomiting, incoordination, seizures, or even liver failure. Bleeding may develop in the dog’s gastrointestinal track or abdomen, as well as dark red specks or splotches on his gums. Usually the symptoms happen quickly, within fifteen to thirty minutes of ingestion, but some kinds of sugar-free gum may not cause symptoms for up to twelve hours.

FIRST AID FOR PET POISONING

If you see or suspect your dog has eaten toxic foods or substances, induce vomiting immediately (but only if the dog remains conscious). Take a sample of the vomitus or feces if available to help the doctor be sure of the diagnosis. You’ll find more tips on how to make pets vomit at this post.

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. 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.

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 anew puppy and need answers? Stay up to date on all the latest just subscribe the blog, “like” me on Facebook, and sign up for Pet Peeves newsletter. Stay up to date with the latest book give aways and appearances related to my September Day pet-centric THRILLERS WITH BITE!

PET POISON! 7 Top Toxins & How to Keep Cats & Dogs Safe

Easter lilies are highly toxic to pets, especially cats. Be safe this Easter season!

National Poison Prevention Week runs March 20-26, 2016, 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. 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 licked off during grooming.

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.

7 TOP PET POISONS & WHAT TO DO

Poisonings from human medications (both over-the-counter and prescription meds) 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. Keep meds out of reach in pet-proof cabinets.
Chemical toxicity used to top the list but the safer flea and tick products have reduced the numbers of overdosing. Problems still happen when you misunderstand directions. What’s safe for a dog may be deadly for a cat! Wash your pet immediately if you suspect toxicity, and call the vet.
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–learn more here!
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. 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. Veterinarians have antidotes for some, and others require gastric lavage and supportive care. Pets may be poisoned by eating dead varmints that have succumbed to pest baits, too.

DANGER! Grapes are highly toxic and can quickly kill dogs.

5. Dogs love sweet flavors and often poison themselves by eating chocolate. Dark chocolate and Baker’s chocolate contains higher concentrations of the caffeine-like substance, theobromine, but even eating too much of that candy Easter bunny can prompt a bout of diarrhea and vomiting. Find out more about chocolate toxicity here.

6. Both fresh and dried grapes (raisins) are quite toxic in dogs. The exact poisonous substance that causes reaction isn’t known, and sensitivity varies from dog to dog. No dog should eat any amount of this fruit because even a small dose can be fatally toxic for your dog. Be particularly aware of wild grapes in the yard or fields.

The most dramatic and serious problem caused by grape/raisin toxicity is sudden kidney failure with lack of urine production. For unknown reasons, kidney failure is not seen in all dogs after ingestion of grapes or raisins. Researchers continue to investigate why some dogs die and others are not affected by the poison.

The first signs of distress often include vomiting and/or diarrhea with only a few hours of ingestion. After about 24 hours, you may see grapes or raisin pieces in the feces or vomitus. Affected dogs lose their appetite, become lethargic and unusually quiet. They may suffer abdominal pain, and “hunch” their back from the discomfort. Dehydration develops from the diarrhea and vomiting, but they only pass small amounts of urine. Eventually they stop urinating at all when the kidneys ultimately shut down. Prognosis is guarded, even when treated, and most dogs die once the kidneys stop producing urine. Grape/raisin toxicity is an emergency that needs prompt veterinary intervention.

7. Xylitol is a naturally-occurring sugar alcohol used for sweetening sugar-free products such chewing gum, candy, toothpaste and baked products. It also comes as a granulated powder. Both forms are highly toxic to dogs. Xylitol ingestion causes a rapid release of insulin in the dog, which in turn results in a sudden decrease in blood glucose levels. Depending on the size of your dog, a single piece of sugar-free gum may cause symptoms that result in death. The ingested substance may cause vomiting, incoordination, seizures, or even liver failure. Bleeding may develop in the dog’s gastrointestinal track or abdomen, as well as dark red specks or splotches on his gums. Usually the symptoms happen quickly, within fifteen to thirty minutes of ingestion, but some kinds of sugar-free gum may not cause symptoms for up to twelve hours.

FIRST AID FOR PET POISONING

If you see or suspect your dog has eaten toxic foods or substances, induce vomiting immediately (but only if the dog remains conscious). Take a sample of the vomitus or feces if available to help the doctor be sure of the diagnosis. You’ll find more tips on how to make pets vomit at this post.

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. 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.

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 anew puppy and need answers? Stay up to date on all the latest just subscribe the blog, “like” me on Facebook, and sign up for Pet Peeves newsletter. Stay up to date with the latest book give aways and appearances related to my September Day pet-centric THRILLERS WITH BITE!