PET NOTES
#2
The
one about headcollars for dogs…
You've
heard it said that "dogs are a man's -- or woman's -- best friend."
How does your dog measure up?
Has your cute little puppy grown into a devoted companion that's
eager to please? Or are you
embarrassed and frustrated by an animal that has grown too big and strong-willed
to control? Maybe you've
tried choke chains or prong collars, and still your dog barks,
lunges and drags you after dogs, cars and wildlife.
Maybe you've given up trying and relegated Fido to the back yard
for life.
Unfortunately,
behavior problems are the main reason people surrender their pets to shelters.
Statistics show that bad behavior kills more dogs than distemper,
heartworm and all other infectious diseases combined.
The
Mendocino Coast Humane Society would like to suggest a gentler alternative:
the headcollar. Similar in
appearance to a horse's halter, this device may look like a muzzle to
the casual onlooker. But
it works with the dog's own natural instincts to calm him and put you
in control. It's a simple, humane and effective way to strengthen the human-animal
bond, highly recommended by veterinarians and dog trainers alike.
The
headcollar has been successfully used with MCHS foster dogs and recent
adoptees. You'll see service
dogs for the handicapped and seeing-eye dogs wearing them.
Because
they're different from traditional training collars, you may need some
instruction in how to use the headcollar.
But once you and your dog get used to it, you'll be amazed at the
difference it makes in your life.
Two
major companies manufacture headcollars, and the Humane Society can help
you locate sources for either one.
Please call 884-1304 and a South Coast volunteer will be happy
to assist you. Thank
you!
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to Pet Notes Index
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to RCHS Home Page
PET
NOTES #3
The
one about using human products on pets…
The
Redwood Coast Humane Society would like to remind you that dogs and cats
are not humans with four legs. Now, this may seem obvious; but the fact is, many people don't think twice about reaching
into their own medicine cabinets for their pet's health and grooming needs.
Unfortunately, many common products -- from pain relievers to shampoos
-- can produce adverse reactions in our family pets. Here are some examples:
Acetaminophen,
the ingredient in Tylenol, causes a life-threatening condition which affects
the red blood cells' ability to carry oxygen. One tablet given to a cat
can be deadly. Dogs may also react to this drug.
Other
pain relievers -- ibuprofen, naprosyn and ketoprofen -- can cause severe
stomach ulcerations in dogs. Aspirin,
too, must be used with care, and you should consult with your veterinarian
to determine proper dosages.
Hydrogen
peroxide and alcohol should not be used to clean an animal's ears.
Both can cause irritation.
If there is a break in the inside lining or eardrum, use of
hydrogen peroxide can result in irreversible nerve damage.
The
pH of human hair differs greatly from our pets' coats and requires the
use of different products. The
fragrance and detergent in our favorite shampoo and conditioner can cause
severe allergic reactions in our non-human friends.
And, stick to toothpastes made specifically for animals, as the
human variety can make your dog or cat salivate terribly.
Please
prevent a potential disaster and check with your veterinarian anytime
you're tempted to use an over-the-counter product on your pet.
Thank-you from the South Coast Branch of the Mendocino Humane Society.
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to RCHS Home Page
PET
NOTES #4:
The
one about hairballs…
Calling
all cat lovers: How do you handle hairballs?
Hairballs,
also known as "furballs" are the result of your cat's normal
cleaning routine. Since cats
spend a lot of time licking themselves, they swallow a lot of hair. Generally, the hair passes through the cat's digestive system
and ends up in your litter box.
But sometimes the hair collects in the cat's stomach and forms
a dense ball that cannot be passed.
When this happens, the cat vomits the hairball.
Occasional
hairballs are normal. In fact it's the most common reason cats spit up.
Problems arise, however, if large amounts of hair block the intestinal
tract; this makes it impossible
for the cat to either vomit or eliminate.
Retching, constipation, diarrhea, loss of appetite or a swollen
abdomen are all signs that your cat may be impacted by a hairball. See your veterinarian immediately if you suspect this to be
the case.
Commercial
products are available that lubricate the cat's digestive tract and help
the hair pass more readily. High-fiber
diets may also help move excess hair through your cat's system.
It's always best to check with your vet before making changes in
your pet's diet.
Finally,
if you'd like the feel of some feline fur to your life,
remember to check with the South Branch of the Mendocino Coast Humane
Society at 884-1304. We currently
have one kitten and six cats available for adoption and we're waiting
for your call. Thank-you!
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to RCHS Home Page
PET
NOTES #5
The
one about why dogs eat grass…
Why
do dogs eat grass? There
are a number of reasons for this behavior.
The
simplest explanation is that they just like it! Fresh, green grass is a delicacy and some dogs have been known
to search out a particular species of grass or plant material just because
it tastes good.
In
reality, grass is a normal part of the wild dog's diet.
Since wolves and foxes eat all of an animal when they catch
it, they end up consuming a lot of vegetation in the intestines of their
plant-eating prey. Today's domesticated dog may instinctively eat grass to get
the same active, live nutrients enjoyed by its healthy and strong ancestors
in the wild.
Many
times dogs will vomit after eating grass.
Do they do eat grass to make them sick or do they get sick because
they ate grass? Nobody knows
for sure, but it's quite possible that dogs purposely seek out long-stemmed
blades of grass when they feel the need for a laxative or an emetic.
It's the sharp, microscopic barbs that
cause internal agitation and vomiting.
If
your dog seems to graze excessively, your vet may want to check for parasites
or an intestinal infection. But
if everything checks out okay, you can relax, knowing that your canine
companion is just being a normal dog!
And
for information about the wonderful dogs (and cats) available from the
Redwood Coast Humane Society please call us at 884-1304.
Thank you!
Return
to Pet Notes Index
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to RCHS Home Page
PET
NOTES #7
The
one about vacation planning for your pet…
Springtime
along the South Coast brings visitors from far and near, but if you're
a local resident you may yearn to travel anyplace else but here!
If you're a pet owner, the Redwood Coast Humane Society encourages
you to plan your vacation well in advance -- both for the animal's well-being
and for your own peace of mind. Kennels fill up quickly during the summer
months, so if you need to board your pet while you're gone, be sure to
arrange your pet's accommodations before you confirm your travel
itinerary.
If
you just can't bear to leave Rover behind, the American Kennel Club recommends
a bimonthly newsletter called "DogGone" for dog owners to find
pet-friendly vacation spots. "DogGone"
offers practical advice on car and air travel, and provides subscribers
with a database of over 8,500 pet-friendly vacation destinations.
For more information, write to DogGone, PO Box 651155, Vero Beach,
Florida, 32965-1155. Happy
trails to you and your pet!
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to Pet Notes Index
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to RCHS Home Page
PET
NOTES #9
The
one about the skunk-be-gone recipe…
Attention
all pet owners: you may not
be a gourmet chef, but the following recipe is one you'll want to save
for a very special occasion. It
calls for only three ingredients which can be stored in your pantry, and
it's quick and easy to prepare.
So grab a pencil, because what you're about to hear may be as close
to a magic potion as you'll come across in your pet-loving lifetime.
It takes away the smell when your pet has been "skunked,"
and it works better than ANY remedy you may have tried in the past.
Do
we have your attention? NOW
go get that pencil! Here's
the recipe for Skunk-Be-Gone:
Combine
one quart of three-percent hydrogen peroxide -- which you can get at any
drugstore -- with one-quarter cup of baking soda and one teaspoon of liquid
Ivory soap. Apply this mixture
immediately to your smelly pet and then rinse thoroughly with tap water.
However,
there is one catch and so please listen carefully. You can NOT make this up ahead of time.
Mixing hydrogen peroxide and baking soda quickly creates a lot
of oxygen, and this concoction will EXPLODE in a closed container.
That's
why Paul Krebaum -- the chemist who developed it -- hasn't become rich
from bottling it. But he'll
have the eternal gratitude of pet-lovers and pets everywhere.
The
Redwood Coast Humane Society welcomes your comments or suggestions for
topics you'd like addressed in PET NOTES each week.
You can reach us at 884-1304.
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PET
NOTES #12
The
one about bite-proofing yourself…
An
estimated 4.7 million people in the United States are bitten by dogs each
year, and children are the most common victims of severe dog bites.
National Dog Bite Prevention Week, held May 21-27, is a national
campaign sponsored by the Humane Society of the United States aimed at
reducing the number of dog bite injuries in this country through public
education and the promotion of responsible dog ownership.
Dogs may bite for a variety of reasons: out of fear, to protect
their territory, or to establish dominance.
While
dog bites pose a significant public health problem, it's a problem that's
largely preventable. Here
are a few pointers for people who want to "bite-proof" themselves
and avoid dog bites:
·
·
Don't
disturb a dog that is sleeping, eating, chewing on a toy, or caring for
puppies. Dogs naturally guard
their food, their babies, their toys, and their owners, as well as property
that belongs to their owners.
·
·
Never
approach a strange dog, especially one who's tied up or confined behind
a fence or in a car. Always
assume that a dog who doesn't know you may see you as an intruder or as
a threat.
·
·
When a
dog approaches you, stand still and stay quiet. Keep your hands at your sides.
·
·
Don't
pet someone else's dog without first asking its guardian for permission.
Before petting someone else's dog -- or even your own -- let the
dog see and sniff you first.
·
·
Never
turn your back to a dog and run away.
A dog's natural instinct will be to chase and catch you.
·
·
And finally,
teach your children how to be safe around dogs. If you would like more information on this or any other pet-related
issue, please call the Redwood Coast Humane Society at 884-1304.
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PET
NOTES #13
The
one about bite-proofing your dog…
An
estimated 4.7 million people in the United States are bitten by dogs each
year, and children are the most common victims of severe dog bites. National
Dog Bite Prevention Week, held May 21-27, is a national campaign sponsored
by the Humane Society of the United States.
Its goal is to decrease the number of dog bite injuries in this
country through public education and the promotion of responsible dog
ownership. While there
is no way to guarantee that your dog will never bite someone, you can
significantly reduce the risk. Here's
how:
·
·
Spay or
neuter your dog. This reduces
your dog's desire to roam and fight with other dogs. Spayed or neutered
dogs are three times less likely to bite.
·
·
Socialize
your dog. Introduce your
dog to many different types of people and situations so that he or she
is not nervous or frightened under normal social circumstances. And start
early. Well socialized puppies
grow into tractible adult dogs.
·
·
Take your
dog to a training class. Make
it a family activity; every member of your household should learn proper
training techniques and participate in your dog's education. Sending
a dog away to be trained is not helpful if you want him to learn how to
behave in YOUR home.
·
·
Make your
dog a member of the family. Dogs
who spend a great deal of time alone in the yard or tied out on a chain
often become dangerous.
·
·
Teach
your dog appropriate behavior. Don't
play aggressive games, such as wrestling, tug-of-war, or "siccing"
your dog on another person.
·
·
Finally,
err on the side of caution. Avoid
settings that may be stressful to your dog if you aren't entirely confident
of his behavior. Work with
a professional behaviorist to help your dog become accustomed to various
situations. If you need assistance finding a qualified professional, please
call the Redwood Coast Humane Society at 884-1304.
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PET
NOTES #16
The
one about fireworks and animals…
The
fourth of July holiday weekend is upon us and the Redwood Coast Humane
Society would like to remind all pet owners that the sound of our celebration
can be terrifying to our animals.
Cats and dogs have hearing four times as sensitive as humans, and
explosive noises -- like fireworks -- can cause sheer panic. Dogs may jump fences or break through windows or screens.
Many are killed in traffic or lost as they try to run away from
the noise. Cats may hide
under buildings and stay there for days.
Please protect your pets by taking the following
precautions:
·
·
Never
take a pet to a fireworks display.
·
·
Never
leave pets outside and unattended, even in a fenced yard or tied, during
the time
fireworks may be set off.
·
·
Keep pets
at home, inside, in a sheltered, quiet area, preferably without windows.
A radio or TV playing softly in the background may be helpful.
·
·
Make sure
your pets are wearing ID tags, so they can be returned if they are lost.
·
·
If your
pet becomes extremely agitated and reacts with bizarre behaviors when frightened,
discuss the possibility of tranquilizers or alternative therapies with
your
veterinarian.
·
·
Finally,
after the Fourth, watch your pets carefully during neighborhood walks,
to be sure they are not exposed to potentially harmful firework debris.
If
you have questions about this information or any other pet-related topics,
please call RCHS at 884-1304.
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PET
NOTES #17
The
one about spaying and neutering myths…
Here's
a little quiz brought to you by the Redwood Coast Humane Society.
Can you tell whether the following statements are TRUE or FALSE?
1)
Spaying or neutering will make my pet fat. . . . . .
This statement is FALSE. Spayed and neutered animals aren't any fatter or lazier than
their intact owners. It's
as true for pets as it is for their people: too much food and not enough
exercise results in obesity.
2)
Neutering takes away "guard dog" instincts. . . . . . This is NOT TRUE. Dogs remain
protective of their territory regardless of sterilization.
Your dog's basic instincts and personality remain unchanged; PROPER
TRAINING is the key to shaping your dog's behavior so that he behaves
as you'd like him to.
3)
Females shouldn't be spayed until after their first litter. . .
. . This is
absolutely FALSE! It is healthier
for her NOT to have a litter--or even her first heat cycle--before being
spayed. Mammary tumors and cancers of the reproductive organs are less
likely in females that have been spayed early in life. When it comes to
spaying, the earlier the better.
4)
I will find good homes for my puppies or kittens. . . . . REALLY GOOD homes are hard to find, and THIRTEEN MILLION
American dogs and cats are put to death every year due to pet overpopulation.
For every puppy or kitten placed from your litter, another will
be killed because there was no home available.
5)
Neutering is painful for animals. . . . .
This too, is false. Neutering is a safe and relatively painless operation performed
by a licensed veterinarian. Most
pets recover quickly, within about 24 hours.
Think
for a minute... This one
simple procedure can give you a happier, healthier pet. YOU can be part of the solution and help prevent the needless
loss of animals' lives. If
your dog or cat is at least six months of age, don't hesitate!
The Redwood Coast Humane Society offers free and low-cost spay
and neuter surgeries to pet owners who qualify.
Please call us at 884 -1304 for details.
Thank you.
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PET
NOTES #18
The
one about outside cats…
Inside?
Or outside? If you're a cat
owner or plan to become one soon, the Redwood Coast Humane Society would
like you to think about the
potential cost of letting your cat out of the house.
Cats
absolutely love to roam. They're
natural explorers and predators.
If you've ever seen the intensity shown by a cat looking out a
window, you know that the great outdoors holds many lures for your feline
friend. Why then, should
you consider depriving your kitty of the opportunity to experience the
world beyond your window seat?
The
most important thing to consider is that the world outside your walls
holds many dangers for your cat. The average life expectancy for outdoor
cats is only about 4 and 1/2 years, whereas owners of inside cats can
expect their pets to live for up to 16 years.
Encounters with wildlife and other pets make outside cats more
prone to infectious diseases. Cats that get into territorial fights run
a high risk of developing life-threatening infections as a result of the
wounds they receive. Wild animals may prey on your cat as well. Your outside cat is also more likely to consume poisons, or
to be hit by a car. Finally,
loose cats are prolific breeders and contribute to the ongoing tragedy
of pet overpopulation.
Only
you can decide whether allowing your cat to experience the thrill
of the hunt is worth the risks to its health and safety. A properly cared-for cat can be perfectly content living its
life indoors. But if your
cat must be outside, then be sure to take the following precautions:
Be
sure your cat is fully vaccinated.
Have your cat spayed or neutered before you let it roam
free. Check your outdoor
cat frequently for painful lumps and bumps, and tend to wounds promptly.
And keep identification on your cat at all times, so he can be
returned to you if he strays too far from home.
So
if you've lost your cat,
or you'd like to spay your cat,
or if you'd like to adopt a cat , please contact
RCHS at 884-1304.
The Redwood Coast Humane Society is here to help.
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PET
NOTES #19
The
one about traveling with pets…
Taking
your dog or cat on the family vacation can make for a great trip, if you
plan carefully. The Redwood
Coast Humane Society recommends you take the following steps to assure
that your travels are safe and happy:
First,
consider the age and health of your pet.
If you have any questions about your animal's ability to travel
comfortably, consult your veterinarian.
A kennel or house-sitter might be a better choice.
Your
choice of a vacation destination may subject your pet to conditions it
might not face at home. Your
vet can assist you in planning for changes in weather, flea, tick or heartworm
problems, or intestinal parasite risks.
Your vet can also prescribe calming or travel sickness remedies.
All
vaccinations should be up to date.
It's a good idea to carry copies of your pet's medical records
with you on your trip as well. Recent
photos of your pet can be invaluable in case you are accidentally separated
from your dog or cat.
Be
sure your pet is wearing
a collar with ID tags, a current license, and proof of rabies shots.
Finally,
pack enough of your pet's regular food for the whole trip, as well as
bowls and a supply of bottled water.
One of the top causes of diarrhea in traveling animals is road
stand water and related parasites.
The
Redwood Coast Humane Society welcomes your questions or comments about
this or any animal-related topic.
Please call us at 884-1304.
We're here to help.
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PET
NOTES #20
The
one about dogs in hot cars…
If
your idea of summertime fun includes hot dogs sizzling on the grill, then
the Redwood Coast Humane Society would like to remind you that the "dog
days of summer" can have serious effects on YOUR DOG if he gets TOO
HOT!
Lots
of dogs like to ride in the car, but the summer sun can make your vehicle
a death trap. Every year,
veterinarians must treat animals who are suffering from heatstroke after
their owners left them in the car for "just a few minutes."
Many animals can't be saved.
Those that survive are often left with brain damage.
Remember:
when your car stops, so does the ventilation. It takes only minutes for your car's interior to reach temperatures
that can kill your pet. Water
bowls and cracked windows are NOT enough.
Dogs in hot cars are at risk of brain damage, heat stroke, or even
death. Please, when errands
call, leave your pet at home! Your
dog will thank you for it.
The
Redwood Coast Humane Society welcomes your questions or comments about
this or any animal-related topic.
Please call us at 884-1304.
We're here to help.
Return
to Pet Notes Index
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to RCHS Home Page
PET NOTES #2
The
one about headcollars for dogs…
You've
heard it said that "dogs are a man's -- or woman's -- best friend."
How does your dog measure up?
Has your cute little puppy grown into a devoted companion that's
eager to please? Or are you
embarrassed and frustrated by an animal that has grown too big and strong-willed
to control? Maybe you've
tried choke chains or prong collars, and still your dog barks,
lunges and drags you after dogs, cars and wildlife.
Maybe you've given up trying and relegated Fido to the back yard
for life.
Unfortunately,
behavior problems are the main reason people surrender their pets to shelters.
Statistics show that bad behavior kills more dogs than distemper,
heartworm and all other infectious diseases combined.
The
Mendocino Coast Humane Society would like to suggest a gentler alternative:
the headcollar. Similar in
appearance to a horse's halter, this device may look like a muzzle to
the casual onlooker. But
it works with the dog's own natural instincts to calm him and put you
in control. It's a simple, humane and effective way to strengthen the human-animal
bond, highly recommended by veterinarians and dog trainers alike.
The
headcollar has been successfully used with MCHS foster dogs and recent
adoptees. You'll see service
dogs for the handicapped and seeing-eye dogs wearing them.
Because
they're different from traditional training collars, you may need some
instruction in how to use the headcollar.
But once you and your dog get used to it, you'll be amazed at the
difference it makes in your life.
Two
major companies manufacture headcollars, and the Humane Society can help
you locate sources for either one.
Please call 884-1304 and a South Coast volunteer will be happy
to assist you. Thank
you!
Return
to Pet Notes Index
Return
to RCHS Home Page
PET
NOTES #3
The
one about using human products on pets…
The
Mendocino Coast Humane Society, South Branch, would like to remind you
that dogs and cats are not humans with four legs. Now, this may seem obvious; but the fact is, many people don't think twice about reaching
into their own medicine cabinets for their pet's health and grooming needs.
Unfortunately, many common products -- from pain relievers to shampoos
-- can produce adverse reactions in our family pets. Here are some examples:
Acetaminophen,
the ingredient in Tylenol, causes a life-threatening condition which affects
the red blood cells' ability to carry oxygen. One tablet given to a cat
can be deadly. Dogs may also react to this drug.
Other
pain relievers -- ibuprofen, naprosyn and ketoprofen -- can cause severe
stomach ulcerations in dogs. Aspirin,
too, must be used with care, and you should consult with your veterinarian
to determine proper dosages.
Hydrogen
peroxide and alcohol should not be used to clean an animal's ears.
Both can cause irritation.
If there is a break in the inside lining or eardrum, use of
hydrogen peroxide can result in irreversible nerve damage.
The
pH of human hair differs greatly from our pets' coats and requires the
use of different products. The
fragrance and detergent in our favorite shampoo and conditioner can cause
severe allergic reactions in our non-human friends.
And, stick to toothpastes made specifically for animals, as the
human variety can make your dog or cat salivate terribly.
Please
prevent a potential disaster and check with your veterinarian anytime
you're tempted to use an over-the-counter product on your pet.
Thank-you from the Redwood Coast Humane Society.
Return
to Pet Notes Index
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to RCHS Home Page
PET
NOTES #4:
The
one about hairballs…
Calling
all cat lovers: How do you handle hairballs?
Hairballs,
also known as "furballs" are the result of your cat's normal
cleaning routine. Since cats
spend a lot of time licking themselves, they swallow a lot of hair. Generally, the hair passes through the cat's digestive system
and ends up in your litter box.
But sometimes the hair collects in the cat's stomach and forms
a dense ball that cannot be passed.
When this happens, the cat vomits the hairball.
Occasional
hairballs are normal. In fact it's the most common reason cats spit up.
Problems arise, however, if large amounts of hair block the intestinal
tract; this makes it impossible
for the cat to either vomit or eliminate.
Retching, constipation, diarrhea, loss of appetite or a swollen
abdomen are all signs that your cat may be impacted by a hairball. See your veterinarian immediately if you suspect this to be
the case.
Commercial
products are available that lubricate the cat's digestive tract and help
the hair pass more readily. High-fiber
diets may also help move excess hair through your cat's system.
It's always best to check with your vet before making changes in
your pet's diet.
Finally,
if you'd like the feel of some feline fur to your life,
remember to check with the Redwood Coast Humane Society at 884-1304.
Return
to Pet Notes Index
Return
to RCHS Home Page
PET
NOTES #5
The
one about why dogs eat grass…
Why
do dogs eat grass? There
are a number of reasons for this behavior.
The
simplest explanation is that they just like it! Fresh, green grass is a delicacy and some dogs have been known
to search out a particular species of grass or plant material just because
it tastes good.
In
reality, grass is a normal part of the wild dog's diet.
Since wolves and foxes eat all of an animal when they catch
it, they end up consuming a lot of vegetation in the intestines of their
plant-eating prey. Today's domesticated dog may instinctively eat grass to get
the same active, live nutrients enjoyed by its healthy and strong ancestors
in the wild.
Many
times dogs will vomit after eating grass.
Do they do eat grass to make them sick or do they get sick because
they ate grass? Nobody knows
for sure, but it's quite possible that dogs purposely seek out long-stemmed
blades of grass when they feel the need for a laxative or an emetic.
It's the sharp, microscopic barbs that
cause internal agitation and vomiting.
If
your dog seems to graze excessively, your vet may want to check for parasites
or an intestinal infection. But
if everything checks out okay, you can relax, knowing that your canine
companion is just being a normal dog!
And
for information about the wonderful dogs (and cats) available from the
Redwood Coast Humane Society please call us at 884-1304.
Thank you!
Return
to Pet Notes Index
Return
to RCHS Home Page
PET
NOTES #7
The
one about vacation planning for your pet…
Springtime
along the South Coast brings visitors from far and near, but if you're
a local resident you may yearn to travel anyplace else but here!
If you're a pet owner, the South Branch of the Mendocino Coast
Humane Society encourages you to plan your vacation well in advance --
both for the animal's well-being and for your own peace of mind. Kennels
fill up quickly during the summer months, so if you need to board your
pet while you're gone, be sure to arrange your pet's accommodations before
you confirm your travel itinerary.
If
you just can't bear to leave Rover behind, the American Kennel Club recommends
a bimonthly newsletter called "DogGone" for dog owners to find
pet-friendly vacation spots. "DogGone"
offers practical advice on car and air travel, and provides subscribers
with a database of over 8,500 pet-friendly vacation destinations.
For more information, write to DogGone, PO Box 651155, Vero Beach,
Florida, 32965-1155. Happy
trails to you and your pet!
Return
to Pet Notes Index
Return
to RCHS Home Page
\\
PET
NOTES #9
The
one about the skunk-be-gone recipe…
Attention
all pet owners: you may not
be a gourmet chef, but the following recipe is one you'll want to save
for a very special occasion. It
calls for only three ingredients which can be stored in your pantry, and
it's quick and easy to prepare.
So grab a pencil, because what you're about to hear may be as close
to a magic potion as you'll come across in your pet-loving lifetime.
It takes away the smell when your pet has been "skunked,"
and it works better than ANY remedy you may have tried in the past.
Do we have your attention? NOW
go get that pencil! Here's
the recipe for Skunk-Be-Gone:
Combine
one quart of three-percent hydrogen peroxide -- which you can get at any
drugstore -- with one-quarter cup of baking soda and one teaspoon of liquid
Ivory soap. Apply this mixture
immediately to your smelly pet and then rinse thoroughly with tap water.
However,
there is one catch and so please listen carefully. You can NOT make this up ahead of time.
Mixing hydrogen peroxide and baking soda quickly creates a lot
of oxygen, and this concoction will EXPLODE in a closed container.
That's
why Paul Krebaum -- the chemist who developed it -- hasn't become rich
from bottling it. But he'll
have the eternal gratitude of pet-lovers and pets everywhere.
The
Redwood Coast Humane Society welcomes your comments or suggestions for
topics you'd like addressed in PET NOTES each week.
You can reach us at 884-1304.
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PET
NOTES #12
The
one about bite-proofing yourself…
An
estimated 4.7 million people in the United States are bitten by dogs each
year, and children are the most common victims of severe dog bites.
National Dog Bite Prevention Week, held May 21-27, is a national
campaign sponsored by the Humane Society of the United States aimed at
reducing the number of dog bite injuries in this country through public
education and the promotion of responsible dog ownership.
Dogs may bite for a variety of reasons: out of fear, to protect
their territory, or to establish dominance.
While
dog bites pose a significant public health problem, it's a problem that's
largely preventable. Here
are a few pointers for people who want to "bite-proof" themselves
and avoid dog bites:
·
·
Don't
disturb a dog that is sleeping, eating, chewing on a toy, or caring for
puppies. Dogs naturally guard
their food, their babies, their toys, and their owners, as well as property
that belongs to their owners.
·
·
Never
approach a strange dog, especially one who's tied up or confined behind
a fence or in a car. Always
assume that a dog who doesn't know you may see you as an intruder or as
a threat.
·
· | 