Amy Shojai's Blog, page 96

Cold Protection for Hot Dogs & Cats

Cold Protection for Hot Dogs & Cats

THIS would be Karma’s answer…if Magic would let him snuggle! Image Copr. Drago_Nika/DepositPhotos.com

Do your fur-kids enjoy the cold weather? Or do they use shivery days to campaign for more lap time? How do YOUR pets stay warm during shivery days?

I know it’s only Fall and warm weather will hang around for another month here in North Texas. But the cold is just around the corner. Magical-Dawg loves seeing his breath and would spend lots more time outside–if his humans could stand it! Seren-Kitty, though, is a heat seeking kitty and has staked out several warm nap spots throughout the house. Karma-Kat showed up during cold weather last year, and has a distinct preference for sunny spots.

What about your cats and dogs? Paws up, or down, to winter?

Sure, they have fur mufflers to keep icy winter blasts at bay. But pets risk cold weather dangers just as much as people do, and maybe even more. Because most folks have a warm place to retreat, and not all cats and dogs have this luxury. Others, like Magical-Dawg, may not have the sense to come in from the cold when they’d rather play in the frigid temps.

I grew up in Northern Indiana and hated the cold–I still do, although I do appreciate seeing a white Christmas (but from the view inside the house, LOL!). My thriller LOST AND FOUND takes place during a freak blizzard that puts a little boy and his service dog at risk for freezing to death. The main character September offers cold weather pet tips in a radio interview as the book opens. And the sequel HIDE AND SEEK continues the story, with the Maine Coon kitty character lost outside in freezing temps. Yep, I include “real life” risks in the fiction but when it comes to your cats and dogs, be sure you know all the furry de-tails to keep ‘em safe (sorry, couldn’t resist!).

Small dogs and thinly furred canines need help staying warm. Image Copr. Pingvin121674/DepositPhotos.com

HOW PETS STAY WARM

Dogs and cats don’t benefit from gi-normous dog houses, and even the garage (unless it’s heated!) may not be protective. Instead, they curl up in small shelters that can be warmed by their own body heat.

Shelter from the wind and precipitation is vital. Fluffed fur traps warm air next to the skin in an insulating layer, but wind strips that away.Getting wet makes the cold worse, when fur can’t fluff to hold warm air. A twenty-mile-per-hour wind makes forty-degree weather feel like 18 degrees, more than enough to cause frostbite in an unprotected cat or dog.

Adult dog and cat body temperature ranges from about 100 to 102.5 degrees F. Puppies and kittens, though, have trouble maintaining body temperature. Newborn pups and kittens must pile together in furry bundles, or snuggle next to Mom–and if left alone, they can develop hypothermia and die even in mild weather. Huddling together shares warmth and reduces wind loss of heat, and shivering generates heat.

Shorthaired pets have less protection but even fuzzy critters are at risk. Thinly furred areas or body parts exposed to the wind or that come in contact with the icy ground have little protection from the cold. And the little dogs may develop potty issues because they simply hate getting cold and would rather “go” where it’s nice and warm–inside!

Pets conserves heat by diverting blood circulation from the ear tips, toes and tail to protect the vital organs in the central part of the body. But reduced circulation to these extremities increases the chance for frostbite.

Cats like Seren prefer to experience winter through the window. Image Copr. yanikap/DepositPhotos.com

WHAT IS FROSTBITE?

Tissue is 90 percent water. When frozen, cells rupture when the water expands just like ice cubes overflowing the tray. The resulting damage—termed frostbite—can be painful and severe.

Frostbite turns the skin pale white, gray or blue. Fur may hide the damage but you’ll notice pets limp from frozen toes, frozen ear tips or tails droop, and the skin will be very cold, hard, and nonpliable.

Redness, blisters, and serious infection develop days later. If it’s really severe, the affected tissue turns leathery and insensitive to sensation. If not removed surgically, those areas fall off. When I worked as a vet tech in Eastern Kentucky, we often had pet patients that lost parts of ears, toes and in one memorable case, an Elkhound lost his curled tail. All cases of frostbite need veterinary attention after first aid. Details for treating frostbite and hypothermia can be found in The First Aid Companion for Dogs & Cats.

WHAT IS HYPOTHERMIA?

While frostbite causes discomfort and damage to the extremities, hypothermia happens when overall body temperature falls below normal. In people hypothermia is defined as body temperature lower than 95 degrees, and treatment is vital to survival. When body temperature falls too low in pets, they can die.

Mild hypothermia happens if body temperature drops to between 95 to 99 degrees F. Pets act a bit sluggish and lethargic, and you’ll see muscle tremors and shivering. Moderate hypothermia is more serious when the temperature falls to 91 to 95 degrees. Severe hypothermia is body temperature 90 degrees or less, and is an emergency—take your pet to the veterinarian as soon as possible! Pets lose the ability to shiver if their body temperature falls to 90 degrees or below, so that’s a warning sign. They may fall unconscious, and rescue breathing may be necessary.

The best protection is to provide shelter from the wet and cold. Bring outdoor cats and dogs inside during severe cold. Why not snuggle together, share body heat and protect each other safe from Old Man Winter’s dangers?

So how do you protect your pets from cold weather? Do tell!

I love hearing from you, so please share comments and questions. Do you have an ASK AMY question you’d like answered–post in the comments. 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  THRILLERS WITH BITE!

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Audition for STRAYS, Channel Your Inner Pet!

Audition for STRAYS, Channel Your Inner Pet!

Come channel your inner cat and dog and audition for STRAYS, THE MUSICAL on Tuesday and Wednesday, 6:00-9:00 pm on September 23-24 (callbacks September 25) at the Honey McGee Playhouse in Sherman Texas.

STRAYS explores furry foibles from the PETS’ point of view. The actors give voice to a variety of cat and dog characters in this hilarious–and often moving–musical review “drama-dy” that seeks to edu-tain audiences about normal pet behavior while honoring the bond we share with them.

STRAYS seeks up to 25 actors, singers and dancers, from kids to adults. Families (parents and kids) are encouraged to audition together. Rehearsals are at the Honey McGee, Sunday through Thursday evenings beginning September 28 with performance three nights only November 6, 7, 8 at the Honey McGee. The show will be rehearsed in individual scenes, so actors won’t be needed at every rehearsal. Families will be scheduled at the same time frame.

HOW TO AUDITION

No experience is necessary. Auditions consist of filling out a form, singing a short selection of your choice (or simple music will be provided), reading scenes from the script, and demonstrating your best cat and/or dog character. A pianist will be available for you to bring sheet music, or bring your own CD for your song and/or dance audition. Dancers may be asked to learn a short routine.

There are up to 20 individual speaking/singing parts; you may be cast to play more than one role or given additional lines and/or solo verses in company songs. STRAYS includes music styles from pop rock to blues, calypso, gospel and musical theater, and even rap, country-western, jazz, and Celtic. The show will be performed with full orchestration via CD recording.

AVAILABLE ROLES!

Featured roles for men include BOY PUPPY (age 13-20), CHOW HOUND (adult bass/baritone), OLD DOG (adult tenor), LUCKY CAT (adult, talk-singer), DOG RAPPER (any age), and HUMAN-OWNER (adult).

Featured roles for women include GIRL KITTEN (soprano/actor age 13-20), QUEEN CAT (soprano/adult), OLD CAT (non-singing, mature), CAT RAPPER (any age), PETS TRIO (any age, close harmony), DANCE CAT (solo-modern/ballet), and HUMAN-OWNER (adult).

Several featured roles may be played by either males or females of any age, and include BLUESY DOG, BEGGING DOG, WISH CAT, and GOSPEL CAT (all mid-range solos), EGO DOG (non-singing), and DANCE PETS (any age).

THE SECRET GARDEN show just closed at the Honey McGee Playhouse, and this gorgeous set will be re-purposed and used for STRAYS.

STRAYS will be co-directed by Frank Steele and Amy Shojai, with assistance from rehearsal pianist Dr. John McGinn and choreographer Kaitlyn Casmedes. In addition, Steven Milward is technical adviser. Anyone interested in technical/crew positions is encouraged to attend.

For further information contact Amy Shojai, (amy@shojai.com, 903-868-1022). You can also fill out an audition form online at the Theatricks website.

I love hearing from you, so please share comments and questions. Do you have an ASK AMY question you’d like answered–post in the comments. 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  THRILLERS WITH BITE!

AMY SHOJAI'S Bling, Bitches & Blood - Pet-centric Writer-icity & Thrillers With BITE!

Prepare Pets for Disaster–Then Pray You Don’t Need It!

Prepare Pets for Disaster–Then Pray You Don’t Need It!

Bucharest, Romania – October 2, 2012: A fire fighter holds a cat, after saving it from a burning block of flats in Bucharest. — Photo Copr bizoon/DepositPhotos.com

September is Disaster Preparation Month, and it’s important to have a disaster plan not only for yourself when Mother Nature throws a tantrum, but also to keep your pets safe. Whether you must deal with tornadoes, floods, landslides, typhoons, wildfires or other emergencies, there’s a rule that we must always PLAN FOR THE WORST.

And then pray it doesn’t happen.

A recent Pet360.com survey revealed 13% of pet owners had been through a disaster or evacuation with pets, and of those, 12% had been separated from their fur-kids. I don’t know about you, but I’d go CRAZY if I was separated from Magic, Seren or Karma at such a time! Other findings:

46% do not have an emergency plan in place for their pets.
Of those who do have a plan, only 40% practice it with their pets.
Less than 35% have an emergency kit for their pets.
63% do not have Pet Alert stickers in their windows.

TOP TIPS FOR PET PLANS

Watch news and weather reports. When weather turns ify, bring all pets into the house so that you won’t have to search for them. Make sure all dogs and cats are wearing collars and up-to-date identification. If you have nothing else handy, use a felt-tip marker and write your phone number and name on the pet’s tummy.

Designate a “safe room” in the house to confine pets until the all clear. Many homes in North Texas don’t have basements or storm cellars. An internal room without windows, often a bathroom without windows, can be a good option. At my house, the cats get stuffed into cat carriers and placed inside the pantry situated under the stairs. It’s big enough that the humans and Magical Dawg can fit inside, too.

Teach pets NOW to go to their “safe room” by practicing and rewarding with tasty treats, favorite games or anything that really floats their boat. Cats often hide during strange weather so make sure you have a way to find them.

EVACUATION!

If you must evacuate, take your pets along. It may be days before authorities allow you to return home.

Red Cross shelters currently prohibit pets, except for certified service animals. In the wake of the Katrina deluge, efforts are underway to make some changes that accommodate furry family members. Until/unless those changes come about, if you’ve got to evacuate, find a hotel, friend, or other accommodations in advance that will let you bring your dogs and cats. Hotels that ordinarily prohibit pets may make exceptions during times of emergency evacuations so always ask.

Attach the phone number and address of your temporary shelter, if you know it, to the pet’s collar tags. You can buy temporary tags or put adhesive tape on the back of your pet’s ID tag, adding information with an indelible pen. Write directly on a flat nylon collar or halter to make it easy for a stranger to read the information.
Have a pet evacuation emergency kit handy that contains pet food, medications, cat litter, vaccination/health certificates and veterinary contact information. You may need proof of vaccination to be admitted to shelters. Be sure your kit contains a three-day supply of all the pet essentials. If easily packed, take an extra towel or blanket for each pet. Don’t forget sturdy leashes, harnesses, carriers or X-pens for safe confinement. Not sure what else to pack? Check out Pet360’s top 10 pet emergency kit items.
Most facilities will require your cats and dogs to be under your control, and may also require proof of current vaccination. Include a favorite comfort toy or treat, the pet’s food and can opener if needed, and don’t forget water—one quart per cat-size pet per day (more for big dogs) is a good rule of paw. One of the pheromone spray products such as Comfort Zone/DAP for dogs or Feliway for cats can help relieve the stress of being in a strange environment.
Have plenty of plastic bags and newspapers as well as containers and cleaning supplies to help deal with pet waste. Puppy training pads or Depends undergarments work well.
Prepare for the unthinkable, too. Include current photos of your pets in case they get lost, and bring a first-aid kit to care for possible injuries. Include disposable latex gloves, sterile dressings, antibiotic towelettes and ointment, eyewash, thermometer, and any prescription medications your pets need. You can find more specifics in “The First-Aid Companion For Dogs & Cats.”
Your evacuation kit should also include a cell phone, flashlight, extra batteries, battery powered radio, map of area, whistle/air horn to signal for help, and matches in a waterproof container. Keep a list of emergency numbers with your phone, including a pet emergency clinic number and shelters that may temporarily house animals. Keep your car tank filled with at least half a tank at all times.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) provides information and relief for human victims of disaster, and also offers more information about pets here. The ASPCA also offers great disaster preparation information for owners at http://www.aspca/org/BePrepared.

This evening September 18 at 7 pm ET, the ASPCA will bring together various disaster experts for a Google Hangout to talk about how to prepare for disasters with pets. The virtual event will be moderated by GMA’s weather anchor Ginger Zee, featuring experts from ASPCA, FEMA and USDA, as well as special animal guests who were disaster survivors. Download the free ASPCA App which includes a check-list of actions to take before, during and after a major storm.You can find more info and RSVP at this link: http://bit.ly/1BpYSrb.

Be ready for Mother Nature’s “what if” surprises now and prepare for the worst. I pray you’ll never need this information.

Have you ever gone through a disaster or evacuation with your pets? What do you wish you’d known, or would do differently? Please share!

I love hearing from you, so please share comments and questions. Do you have an ASK AMY question you’d like answered–post in the comments. 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  THRILLERS WITH BITE!

AMY SHOJAI'S Bling, Bitches & Blood - Pet-centric Writer-icity & Thrillers With BITE!

The Dog Heroes Of September 11

The Dog Heroes Of September 11

Our pets are heroes to us every day, in so many ways, but the service dogs and their human partners who served selflessly in the aftermath of the 9-11 tragedy deserve special recognition.

With heartfelt thanks…May we never again need your service in such a capacity, but bless one and all for such a wonderful gift!

I love hearing from you, so please share comments and questions. Do you have an ASK AMY question you’d like answered–post in the comments. 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  THRILLERS WITH BITE!

AMY SHOJAI'S Bling, Bitches & Blood - Pet-centric Writer-icity & Thrillers With BITE!

Puppy Play! The Good, The Bad & the Dangerous

Puppy Play! The Good, The Bad & the Dangerous

It’s here! *cue the trumpets, tail wags & happy howls!*

COMPLETE PUPPY CARE is now available for your puppy-licious reading pleasure. I’ve included a brief excerpt below about how to tell when GOOD puppy play tips over into DANGEROUS games. That’s just the tip of the furry info, though. Please share the news about this book with all your puppy and dog loving peeps.

WANT A FREE PDF TO REVIEW?

COMPLETE PUPPY CARE includes more than two-dozen SQUEEE! cute puppy pictures (including Magical-Dawg as a baby), plus all the puppy must-knows. Those who subscribe to my PET PEEVES newsletter (see the right side of the blog) got the news early–and TEN folks won a free copy in exchange for posting an honest review. I’m nervously nail-biting until those get posted!

I’ll make the same offer here–post in the comments for a chance to review a free PDF copy of the book (the first 10 requests get the book!). AND…tell me the link of your review once it’s posted and I’ll  send you a free copy of your pick of MY CAT HATES MY DATE or MY DOG HATES MY DATE quick tips guide as a thank you.

ABOUT COMPLETE PUPPY CARE…

Nothing beats a cute puppy for love, but proper puppy care and training prepares you and your new dog for a healthy and long life together. This up to date new guide provides a “Puppies 101” packed with veterinary facts, health care advice, how-to tips, and fascinating information about:

Choosing, training and communicating with your new puppy
Pros and cons of purebred versus shelter/rescue sources
Understanding common behavior problems and how to prevent them
Food, grooming and humane training recommendations
Tips for introducing your puppy to adult dogs, cats, babies and kids
The latest veterinary recommendations for preventive care
How to recognizing common health issues, and what to do
First aid and home remedies that save you money—and your puppy’s life!
More than two-dozen SQUEE! cute puppy pictures
Canine legends, myths and fun puppy facts including: Why puppies drink from the toilet, why dogs act guilty, reasons dogs hump your leg, and more!

COMPLETE PUPPY CARE empowers you with all the information necessary for your puppy to grow up into the happy, healthy dog you both deserve.

HERE’S THE EXCERPT…

“Just Kidding” During Play

Dogs use exaggerated behaviors, called meta signals, to tell other dogs all action that comes after is not serious but a game. For instance, the play-bow is a butt-in-the-air with front-end down position where the pup’s forelegs dance back and forth to invite play. When your puppy first play-bows, he’s

telling you that any growls or wrestling that comes after are meant as fun and games.

Adult dogs often “pretend” to be subordinate to a puppy—with play bows or rolling on the back—to build up the pup’s confidence and invite him to play. This “just kidding” game allows lower-ranking pups to practice being in charge with play bites, mounting behavior, and wrestling games. Once the

play is over, the higher-ranking dog again assumes his more “mature” behavior that tells the pup to respect his leadership.

BAD VS GOOD PLAY—KNOWING THE DIFFERENCE

Dogs of all ages enjoy playing. Behaviors for fighting and fun are similar, but you must know how to tell the difference between aggression and play-acting. Watch for “meta signals” which tells participants that whatever comes after is meant in a “play” context.

Dogs commonly drop toys on your feet or lap to solicit a game, and offer toys to other dogs in the same way. A play bow—the dog sticks his butt and tail into the air, and bows forward on lowered forelegs that dance side to side—is the classic signal and invitation for the games to begin. Often, the

“fighting” behaviors seen during such games will be exaggerated to indicate play, or the “fight” behavior sequences may be jumbled.

Play includes inhibited mouth-open bites often aimed at the legs and paws of other dogs. Dogs also paw and bat each other without force to hurt. In appropriate play, all the dogs willingly participate. If you suspect one of the dogs doesn’t like the activity (one dog repeatedly tries to escape or hide),

gently separate the pair to see if they go back for more. If the play session was too rough, one will sneak away.

Inappropriate play results in one or more dog frightened, hurt, or overwhelmed. Bully dogs always end up on top, while in appropriate play you’ll see dogs take turns chasing and pinning each other during wrestling. Mouthing aimed primarily at the head or neck, or uninhibited bites means play has gotten out of hand. You’ll hear yelps from the bitten dog.

Consistent play up on hind legs may indicate problems. Ongoing mounting, clasping and thrusting also can lead to problems, as can resting of paws, heads or whole bodies across other dog’s shoulders to intimidate or achieve social status.

Growls don’t usually indicate problems, but play can be so exciting that the action escalates into aggression. Listen for louder, lower pitched growls,and be prepared to break up the session before they get too aroused.

***

Okay now, what about YOUR puppies and dogs? How do they play? Is it polite, taking turns, or is there some bully behavior involved? At my house, Magical-Dawg’s best play buddy is Karma-Kat and that involves a whole new set of signals.

Don’t forget–post your comment for a chance to review a free copy of the book!

I love hearing from you, so please share comments and questions. Do you have an ASK AMY question you’d like answered–post in the comments. 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  THRILLERS WITH BITE!

AMY SHOJAI'S Bling, Bitches & Blood - Pet-centric Writer-icity & Thrillers With BITE!

FREE WORKSHOP FOR #PETS CENTRIC MUSICAL

FREE WORKSHOP FOR #PETS CENTRIC MUSICAL

Those who regularly read this blog know that I not only write about pets, but also give talks about pet behavior. You may be surprised to learn that sometimes I write music about pet behavior, too and even SING about cats and dogs. (Magical-Dawg howls, Seren-Kitty does her lion cough and Karma yawns…everyone’s a critic!) Now you have a chance to sing along!

I’m proud to partner with local actor/writer/musician Frank Steele to co-write STRAYS, THE MUSICAL. Next Saturday, September 13 from 10-noon at the Honey McGee Playhouse in Sherman, we’ll present a free workshop about the show. The workshop is designed to help pet loving performers prepare to audition for STRAYS on September 23, 24, 25. Those who attend may learn a thing or two about cat and dog behavior, too!

I’ve written lots of pet-centric schtuff, and Frank and I have written other scripts and performed on stage a great deal. But STRAYS combines all our loves—writing, music, acting and pets. Now we want to share STRAYS with area actors and audiences.

Love theater? Love pets? You’ll fall in love with STRAYS!

We’re looking for up to 20 performers and production folks to bring STRAYS to life. A few human characters appear in the show but most actors portray cats or dogs—but without any special makeup or costumes. That’s right! You get to create your own character using your skill as a performer—are you a Great Dane? Chihuahua or Siamese? Mutt or tabby? We’d love to cast families, too—with the kids playing kittens/puppies and parents as the adult pets.

During the workshop, you’ll practice channeling your inner pet. Feel free to bring a dog or cat toy to help get into character. Participants will learn one of the songs from the show and practice pet-centric moves. Are you a rapper or beat box expert? Come show your skills! Dogs and cats move and act in very specific ways that communicate to each other (and to clueless humans!). Shake your puppy tail or display kitty ballet moves to evoke the pet’s mood. During the workshop you’ll also practice reading funny or poignant scenes from the script.

Two featured parts call for 14-year old actor/singers to play the parts of Girl Kitten and Boy Puppy. But all other parts have no age or type limitations and performers aged 9 to 99 are welcome. STRAYS includes solos, ensembles, rap, featured dancers, non-singing actor roles, and fun company numbers in styles ranging from pop rock to blues, calypso, gospel, jazz, and Celtic. If you’re like me, you often “speak” for your pets and now’s your chance to bring that cat or dog character to the stage.

We look forward to working with Supporting Cast members from SCP-Theatricks. We also seek technical assistance with lighting, sound, projection, choreography, stage managing and more.

Dr. John McGinn will assist us as rehearsal pianist, and the show will be performed with a CD of full orchestration on November 6, 7, 8, 2014. We hope STRAYS will benefit animal welfare organizations in their fund raising efforts, as well as entertain pet lovers. And purr-haps bring a new audience to Sherman Community Players.

Now is your chance—come to the STRAYS workshop Saturday September 13 from 10-Noon to learn more. Please SHARE this post with cat and dog lovers and theater peeps.

I love hearing from you, so please share comments and questions. Do you have an ASK AMY question you’d like answered–post in the comments. 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  THRILLERS WITH BITE!

AMY SHOJAI'S Bling, Bitches & Blood - Pet-centric Writer-icity & Thrillers With BITE!

DOG FOOD RECALL! Pedigree Announces Voluntary Recall Due to Metal Fragments In Food

DOG FOOD RECALL! Pedigree Announces Voluntary Recall Due to Metal Fragments In Food

Mars Petcare US today announced a voluntary recall of 22 bags of Pedigree Adult Complete Nutrition dry dog food. There is a possibility of foreign material introduced into the food. The bags of dog food thought to be affected were sold in 12 Dollar General stores in four states: ARKANSAS, LOUISIANA, MISSISSIPPI and TENNESSEE.

Small metal fragments were found in the bags of food, not embedded in the food itself, but still posing a potential risk of injury if consumed. The company is working with Dollar General to ensure that the recalled product is no longer sold and is removed from inventory.

Each product will have the lot code 432C1KKM03 printed on the back of the bag near the UPC and a Best Before date of 8/5/15.

If you have one of these bags, you can contact Mars Petcare at 800-305-5206 from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. CST. You can report complaints about FDA-regulated pet food products by calling the consumer complaint coordinator in your area or go online to http://www.fda.gov/petfoodcomplaints.

I love hearing from you, so please share comments and questions. Do you have an ASK AMY question you’d like answered–post in the comments. 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  THRILLERS WITH BITE!

 

 

AMY SHOJAI'S Bling, Bitches & Blood - Pet-centric Writer-icity & Thrillers With BITE!

Dog Gone Art: Amy Shojai Featured Writer!

Dog Gone Art: Amy Shojai Featured Writer!

Cover Image Copr. Sean O’Daniels

Dog Gone Art is an online E-zine with some of the most spectacular dog art I’ve seen. You’ve got to check this out if you love dogs–Heck, if you love ART you need to see these wonderful paintings, photos and digital art (yep, there are some PAW-some videos in the issue, too).

This month, I’m honored to be the FEATURED WRITER. Wow. Here’s the page spread:

But there is so much more. Check out the TOC here–and then CLICK on any of these images to go drool over the images and read the stories. You won’t be sorry. My virtual tail is a-wagging!

I love hearing from you, so please share comments and questions. Do you have an ASK AMY question you’d like answered–post in the comments. 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  THRILLERS WITH BITE!

AMY SHOJAI'S Bling, Bitches & Blood - Pet-centric Writer-icity & Thrillers With BITE!

Frig Fails & Dryer Danger! How to Keep Pets Safe From Appliances

Frig Fails & Dryer Danger! How to Keep Pets Safe From Appliances

Anything your puppy can reach is potential for problems! Image © Lisa Calvert/Flickr

Stoves and ovens, dishwashers, clothes dryers, garbage disposals and other appliances are convenient for us but can prove deadly to cats and dogs. While the photos in today’s blog make us smile, the “what if” makes me shiver, because I know they represent tragedy waiting to happen.

4 REASONS PETS LOVE APPLIANCES

FOOD & SMELL. Do you give your pets the chance at a “first rinse” before putting dirty dishes in the washer? (raising hand…GUILTY). Just licking off or pawing food-smeared utensils can cut tongues or paws. A tiny pup or kitty could crawl inside after yummies, and be seriously injured or die when the machine turns on.
HEIGHT. Do your cats countertop cruise? A couple of things draw the kitty to scale the heights. Available food, yummy smells, and a GREAT perch lookout.
WARMTH. Stoves, ovens and clothes dryers draw cats especially to the warmth. Yep, it can make for some LOL Funny Cat moments, but not if the cat or dog ends up with burned feet or worse.
HIDEY-HOLES. Pets seem drawn to small enclosed spaces for naps or ambushes. Paw-poking into holes is a cat rule, while dogs enjoy nosing into tight spots as well.

Sprout apparently hasn’t had enough coffee! Image Copr Kim Smith/Flickr Commons

When I edited one of the stories in Chicken Soup for the Cat Lover’s Soul, it made me turn green–and we had to preface the story with the note that “it’s a happy ending!” or folks likely wouldn’t have wanted to read it. The cat in that story went head-first into the garbage disposal after fishy leavings and got his head stuck. They had to remove the entire sink and take it to the vet clinic for the cat to be sedated, oiled up, and extricated. Funny story when it’s a happy ending. I’ve caught Karma-Kat sticking his paw down into the garbage disposal, too, yikes!

Sadly, not all funny stories end so well.

My friend Mary McCauley sent me a message last week that broke my heart. This post is for Mary and her kitty friend, Boo:

“Amy, a few weeks ago our beautiful young cat had climbed into the dryer. My son turned it on. I heard a loud thumping and thought the washing machine was out of balance. I found Boo in the dryer. Blood was coming out of her mouth. She was convulsing. I ran up the stairs to get my keys, but she died in my arm. I tried rescue breathing and cardiac resuscitation with 2 fingers, but she was gone. I cried for 2 days. Please warn your readers about this danger. My son felt so guilty for a few weeks.”

As far as I know, Audley’s adventure in the tumble dryer turned out fine. Image Copr. RaGeBe/Flickr

Accidents happen, and our pets can get into trouble in the flick of a whisker. Cats are furry heat-seeking missiles and I have no doubt that Seren-Kitty and Karma-Kat would do the same thing, given the opportunity. They both dive into the pile of fresh-from-the-dryer clean clothes dumped onto my bed for folding.

A day after I got Mary’s message, my husband called me into the kitchen to shoot this photo (below) of Karma-Kat. He’s a door dasher and often sprints into the pantry to gnaw through the dog food container–but the frig fail was new.

Karma is big enough, the chance of shutting him inside the frig is small–but it could happen. Left overnight in the refrigerator–or worse, inside the freezer!–could quickly result in hypothermia and death. I’m just hoping he doesn’t learn to open the frig himself. I know of one owner who resorted to a bungee cord around the frig to keep her cats out of the goodies.So what’s a responsible pet parent to do? Pet proofing your home is job one, especially when you have a clueless puppy or kitten. But it doesn’t stop when the cat or dog grows up. Pets are endlessly curious and always find new ways to get into trouble and push our buttons. Here are a few suggestions for keeping your pets safe around modern conveniences.

Baby gates keep pets away from danger zones. I lock the fur-kids out of the kitchen when cooking and clearing up, to prevent paw burns on stove tops or me spilling something hot on them when they wind around my feet.
Double check washing machines and clothes dryers before hitting the “start” button. If your pet is inside, don’t pull them out immediately. Instead BANG-BANG-BANG on the top to make a horrendous scary racket and watch them rocket out. Most pets won’t get near that scary thing ever again.
If you have hard-case pets, make a sign to stick on doors of appliances to remind kids, spouses and guests to CHECK FOR CAT. That’ll be a fun conversation starter, too.
Invest in stove top covers to protect kitty feet. One of the best ways to keep pets from cruising counters and stoves is to give them a cat tree that’s higher than the counters. Make the stove top uncomfortable by spreading aluminum foil across the top, for instance.

Have you ever caught your dog or cat up close and personal with one of your appliances? How did you handle the situation, and prevent future problems? Do tell!

And please–if you love your cats and dogs as much as Mary loved Boo–share this warning far and wide and tell folks it’s in memory of a special Boo-kitty.

I love hearing from you, so please share comments and questions. Many more pet proofing tips are available in Complete Kitten Care book, and you can find first aid help (including for clothes dryer injuries) in The First Aid Companion for Dogs and Cats. Do you have an ASK AMY question you’d like answered–post in the comments. 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  THRILLERS WITH BITE!

AMY SHOJAI'S Bling, Bitches & Blood - Pet-centric Writer-icity & Thrillers With BITE!

Nom-Nom-Nom! How to TREAT Without Tummy Troubles

Nom-Nom-Nom! How to TREAT Without Tummy Troubles

Treats cause tummy troubles? Really? According to my pets, “bad treat” is an oxymoron.

“Only morons say that,” says Karma-Kat, paws-ing in his pursuit of a scorpion munchie.

“Oxy? Is that like steaky?” says Magical-Dawg, drooling and licking his lips.

“Mfffn.” (Seren’s too busy lapping up tasties to comment.)

My pets LIVE for treats and all eagerly gobble up anything that doesn’t move faster than they do. I’ve been very fortunate that nothing seems to phase their cast-iron bellies, especially since Magical-Dawg relishes eating cat TOYS, too. He steals catnip cigars, furry mice, and pom-pom sparkle-balls left within reach. Sparkly poop happens. Ahem.

But then Karma-Kat got sick. And I know exactly what upset his tummy and caused day-long vomit-icity (thank goodness output from the other end remained normal!). Karma likes dog food and swipes a kibble or two whenever he can. His c’attitude is that if Magic swipes his toys and treats, it’s only fair for Karma to return the favor.

Ruh-roh…

MERRICK GRAIN FREE + GLUTIN FREE DOG TREATS

The fine folks at Merrick sent me a box filled with wonderful doggy tasties to review. They include oven-baked biscuits Jerky Chip Treats (chocolate chip cookie look alikes…but no chocolate, of course!); minty bone shaped Mini Brush Bones dental chews; paw-shaped Grammy’s Pot Pie Kitchen Bites; and tiny star-shaped soft chewy protein Power Bites. These treats are made in the USA with no ingredients from China, and are grain free, gluten free.

Karma got into trouble with the Power Bites. Don’t get me wrong, there’s nothing “bad for cats” in the treat and I actually like the fact it’s appealing to cats, too. With deboned beef as the first ingredient, no wonder Karma (and Magic!) went nutso over this. Karma, though, swiped the bag and ate who-knows-how-many causing his upset tummy.

Lesson learned. I categorize the Power Bites as a “locked cupboard” treat.

In a decidedly unscientific test, I offered Magic his choice of each treat, side by side. I showed him a different treat in each hand, and asked him to choose. We went three or four rounds, with different choices each time. His favorite picks, in order:

Mini Brush Bones (yay! he’s got some tartar buildup this should help). Ingredients include potato starch, vegetable glycerin, dried plain beet pulp, cane molasses and chicken fat.
Power Bites. This are a great size for training rewards. Ingredients include deboned beef (there’s a chicken version, too), potatoes, peas, potato protein and potato starch.
Grammy’s Pot Pie. A nice crunchy reward, could be broken into smaller chunks for multiple rewards from one treat. Ingredients include deboned chicken, sweet potatoes, peas, organic cane molasses and chicken fat.
Jerky Chip Treats. Interestingly, these looked most appealing to me (yum, chocolate chip!) but were last choice for Magic. He enjoyed it readily enough but kept making eyes at the other options. Ingredients include deboned beef, dried potatoes, peas, garbanzo beans, tapioca starch, pea fiber and chicken fat.

I like that the treats each come in resealable packages, and include “calorie count” information for pet parents to choose an amount that won’t upset their dogs’ nutrition.

Now if I could just get Karma to read the package!

At our house, we “treat” our pets with non-commercial tasties, too. A favorite is plain yogurt. This helps normalize the “good” bacteria in the gut. After Karma’s day-long bout with tummy-itis, I offered him small tastes of the yogurt to help get him feeling better. Seren and Magic beg for this as a treat, too.

I recently discovered a new no-fat treat that Magic loves, too (more on that later!). It’s ideal for dogs that have issues with overweight or pancreatitis, so I can’t wait to share more info, soon.

What are your pets’ favorite treats? Commercial ones? Off-your-plate treats? And how do you manage furry thieves like Karma that get themselves into trouble swiping munchies they shouldn’t gnosh? Do tell!

I am not being paid for this post. The opinions expressed in this blog are my own. I received free samples from Merrick Pet Care Inc. in exchange for an honest review. 

I love hearing from you, so please share comments and questions. Do you have an ASK AMY question you’d like answered–post in the comments. 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  THRILLERS WITH BITE!

 

AMY SHOJAI'S Bling, Bitches & Blood - Pet-centric Writer-icity & Thrillers With BITE!