PET NOTES #85 The one about moving dogs to a new home
The Redwood Coast Humane society wants to remind us
that moving your dog to a new home can be exciting and also stressful.
Dogs like to sniff and search, so to aid in this canine behavior
take the dog, on leash, for a tour of the new home. If you housetrained
your dog using a crate, you may want to reintroduce it again, at least
until the usual routines are understood. Taking him outside frequently,
and on leash, also can help to convey the message of proper training
more clearly. Dogs respond to a firmly established routine and of course,
to a time and safe place to play and let off steam.
Finally, the Redwood Coast Humane Society wants to
remind all of us that a little one-on-one time will go a long way toward
easing your dog into a new home.
Call us at 884-1304 for more information on moving
your pet.
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PET NOTES #86 The one about moving cats to a new home
The Redwood Coast Humane Society wants to remind us
that moving cats to a new home requires that we confine them to an out-of-the
way room with food, water, a litter box and a familiar blanket or cat
cozy, perhaps put in an open-topped cardboard box for nesting purposes.
Then, leave the cat alone! When he seems curious
or when the move is complete, let him begin to explore the alien territory.
Keeping him inside for days, even if he was an outside cat, is advisable
if you want to prevent him from taking off in search of more familiar
places.
For more help in moving a cat to new surroundings
call the Redwood Coast Humane Society at 884-1304.
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PET NOTES #88 The one about
milk for cats...
Milk, does it do a cat's body good? Most adult cats cannot properly
digest milk and other dairy products. After weaning, a kitten loses
most of the enzyme, lactose which aids in the digestion of milk sugars.
Ingesting milk can lead to an abundance of milk sugars which hold
water in the small intestine, later producing diarrhea and vomiting.
To be safe and insure that your cat is healthy, offer your cat a balanced
diet and no milk products, for milk does not do a cat body good!
This message has been brought to you by the Redwood Coast Humane Society.
For further information about cat nutrition please call us at 884-1304.
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PET NOTES #89 The one about chicks and ducks
for Easter pets...
What could be cuter than a cheeping fluffy yellow baby chick or a
fat little puffy duck for an Easter present? Please remember that
they require a normal amount of care, vet visits, attention and an appropriate
places to live. And, they do grow up and become a normal large feathered
animal to clean up after, house, and to provide with nourishment.
If you are considering buying something like this for someone or for you
or your family, think seriously of the consequences. You may be
in for years of taking care of an animal that no longer looks like a sweet
Disney character.
The Redwood Coast Humane Society welcomes your comments about this or
any other topic and can be reached at 884-1304.
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PET Notes #90 The one about dogs riding in
the back of trucks...
Dog's riding in the back of pickup trucks can be a deadly experience.
This is because dogs can't "hold on" like humans can,
and any sudden motion could toss your pet onto the highway. Over
100,000 dogs die this way each year.
For maximum safety, put the dog inside the cab of the truck, and if this
is not possible, and he won't be left home, then, to protect it from being
injured put your pet inside a crate made for this purpose. Then,
fasten the crate securely to the walls of the truck so it will not slide
or be tossed out of the vehicle.
The Redwood Coast Humane Society thanks you for respecting your animal
and treating it with loving care at all times. For more helpful
hints we can be reached at 884-1304.
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PET NOTES #91 The one about cat overpopulation...
It's easy to have a cat population explosion right in your own house.
For example, one cat produces 6 and 6 become 36!
To prevent this from happening, have your female cat spayed and
your male neutered, now.|
Be a responsible pet owner and a purr-fect friend to your cat and to society.
The Redwood Coast Humane Society will be happy to share information about
spay services in this area. Please give us a call at 884-1304.
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PET NOTES #92 The one about humane education
books for children...
We all agree that it's important to teach children how to respect
the rights of others. To help children learn about humane treatment
of animals there are two exemplary books available that can easily be
ordered from an online source or a book store.
For ages 4-8 Go Home: The True Story of James the Cat by
Libby Meggs is a touching story about a lonely cat who needs a real home.
For ages 9-12 Star in the Storm by Joan Harlow is a story set in
1912 about a huge dog who lives on the rugged coast of Newfoundland.
These stories are accurate, humane, and fun to read.
For more linfomation about resources for teaching children respect for
animals call the Redwood Coast Humane Society at 884-1304.
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PET NOTES #93 The one about pet seat belts...
"Easy Rider" is not just a motorcycle term, it's also a
pet harness that can hold your dog in place while you drive your vehicle.
Easy Rider is a nylon addition to a seat belt that protects your
animal from injury while allowing it to stretch, scratch or lie down...of
course peeking out the window is permitted. The best part is that
it can be obtained for less than $20 at ARFF.
For more information about this type of animal protection please call
the Redwood Coast Humane Society at 884-1304.
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PET NOTES #94 The one about declawing a cat...
If you are concerned about your cat scratching and shredding your
furniture to the point of having it declawed, please think again.
Declawing means amputation of each of the 10 final knuckles on your cat's
paws. This is an excruciatingly painful procedure that takes a long
time to heal, and sometimes causes the animal to die of shock. Instead,
train your cat to leave precious areas alone by providing attractive scratching
posts and toys for it to play with.
For more helpful information on teaching your cat to behave properly please
call the Redwood Coast Humane Society at 884-1304.
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PET NOTES #95 The one about providing scratching posts
for cats...
Ssssccraatch, rrriiippp, shshshredd...Yikes! How do we get the
cat to stop scratching our best sofa???
There is a solution to this age-old problem. Cats scratch an area
to leave their scent or mark behind so that we know this is their territory.
To help them do this and not ruin the designer sofa, provide
the cat with at least one scratching post made from fiber rope or heavy
carpet attached to a sturdy post in a conspicuous area for kitty to find.
Remember to praise the cat and reward it for its good behavior.
For more information on teaching your cat good habits, please call the
Redwood Coast Humane Society at 884-1304.
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PET NOTES #96 The one about "sticky paws"...
So, you have cat scratching posts in every room of the house and the
kitty is still claiming the recliner chair for its personal claw sharpener.
Relief is on the way, for all you need to do is attach a new product called
"sticky paws" to the clawing spot or spots, and kitty will no
longer go there! This new product is a small, transparent, almost
invisible square, sticky on both sides, which can be put wherever it is
needed without damaging the couch or carpet underneath.
Cats cannot tolerate the sticky feel on their paws and soon learn to go
to the post for their scratching fix.
For more information on positive ways to teach your cat good habits please
call the Redwood Coast Humane Society at 884-1304.
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PET NOTES # 98 The one about adopting an older pet...
Sometimes an older pet is available for adoption due to sudden changes
in a household. I f you are considering adding a pet to your home
there are definite advantages to choosing one who is already house-trained
and has adjusted to being part of a home.
The Redwood Coast Humane Society has several mature and lloving dogs and
cats available right now who would jump at the chance to be included in
a real family again. For more information on individual animals
please call 884-1304.
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PET NOTES #99 The one about introducing
a new cat to a current cat...
When introducing a new cat into another cat's household, keeping them
on friendly terms can be challenging! Some helpful strategies
are to keep the new cat in a separate room for a week or two and
use the sense of smell for a gradual way to meet
To do this, rub the new one's fur with a sock and then offer it to the
resident one with treats, of course, to make the new one seem like a positive
change. As you actually introduce them, the use of treats can be
a gentle distraction.
Also, separate litter boxes can be a help in keeping territories apart
at first.
For more tips on introducing a new animal to your home, please call the
Redwood Coast Humane Society at 884-1304.
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PET NOTES #100 The one about children and pets
getting along...
Teach your children to interact with their pets in ways that are user-friendly.
A child hugging a cat or dog who does not welcome this, can get scratched
or bitten as the animal tries to escape. Also, a pet may be easily
freaked out by over-active behaviors like running or screaming.
Teach your child to be aware of the needs of others by encouraging appropriate
social behaviors that include the rights of animals.
To learn more about how to teach children the use of compassion for animals
call the Redwood Coast Humane Society at 884-1304.
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PET NOTES #108 The one about hot vehicles...
The Redwood Coast Humane Society is reminding all of us to be careful
about protecting our pets from the hazards of being left in a vehicle
on a hot day.
Even with a window of a car or truck left partially open, in just
10 minutes the interior temperature can exceed 100 degrees. In hot
weather, if you need to leave your dog in a car for a period of
time...do the pet and yourself a favor and leave it at home in a cool
place with plenty of fresh water to drink.
And, if you think your pet is showing signs of heat stroke, such as excessive
panting, drooling, rapid pulse rate and fever, gently cool it down with
a wet towel, give it ice cubes to lick and then, if it is still distressed,
call the vet for help.
This message is brought to you by the Redwood Coast Humane Society which
can be reached at 884-1304 or visit our website at www.redwoodcoasthumane.org
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PET NOTES #109 The one about hot weather tips...
If it's an exceptionally hot day, do your pet a favor and keep her
in a cool place that is likely to stay that way, such as the house where
there may be a fan going or an air conditioner in operation. Another
way to keep you pet comfortable, is to offer treats such as low
sodium boullion cubes dissolved in water and frozen in an ice cube tray.
These can be enjoyed throughout the day and provide a distraction from
the heat.
The general rule is, if it's too hot for you to be comfortable outside,
it's too hot for your pet out there too.
These hot weather tips has been brought to you by the Redwood Coast Humane
Society which may be reached at 884-1304.
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PET NOTES #110 The one about paws on hot surfaces...
Summer is definitely here, and remember how hard it can be to walk
across hot beach sand? or to try to walk more than a few feet on
hot, sticky, tarry street surfaces?
Imagine what that is like for our dogs as we take them out with us to
the beach or for a run on the street! "Youch!" The Redwood
Coast Humane Society would like to remind all of us to be aware of our
pet's needs on these sunny, hot days and remember that it is even possible
to feel the burning heat through our shoes if it gets hot enough out there.
Don't put your pet through this agony by forgetting how hot it can be
for their paws to be on heated surfaces.
When in doubt about the hot weather, leave your pet at home in a shady
yard or walk him in cool grassy areas.
This hot weather help has been brought to you by the Redwood Coast Humane
Society which can be reached at 884-1304.
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PET NOTES #111 The one about hot weather care...
To take care of your pet in hot weather remember:
Never leave your pet in a closed vehicle or in direct sunlight.
Always make sure your pet has plenty of fresh water.
Avoid strenuous exercise with your dog on a hot day or when the sun is
most intense.
Dog's paws are sensitive, don't walk your dog on hot pavement or on hot
beach sand.
Beware of insect bites, if your pet is bitten or stung, remove the stinger
and watch the site for an allergic reaction. When in doubt, take
your pet to the vet.
Check your pet daily for fleas and ticks.
Lawn and garden products may be toxic to your pets. Store them out
of your pet's reach.
All pets need proper ID with a tag, tattoo, or microchip.
Make sure your veterinarian or emergency clinic phone numbers are available
to anyone who may need them.
For more information about protecting your pet call the Redwood Coast
Humane Society at 884-1304.
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PET NOTES #119 The one about taking a litter and fixing
the parents too...
Kittens, kittens, and more kittens...the Redwood Coast Humane Society
volunteers are beside themselves with caring for lost or abandoned baby
animals. What's to become of that litter of puppies? How are
homes found for each of them?
There are two things that can help this situation. First, if you
have a litter of puppies or kittens, please call the Redwood Coast Humane
Society at 884-1304 and our volunteers will help find homes for them.
Then please get a voucher from us for a free spaying or neutering of your
animals and never have to worry about unwanted pets in your household
again. For the month of October this service of spay/neuter
is FREE!
Thr number to call is 884-1304.
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PET NOTES #121 The one about pets lowering our
stress levels...
Do you have a pet in your house? Congratulations if you answered,
"yes"! According to a recent study conducted at the State
University of New York at Buffalo, participants completing stress-inducing
tasks while in the presence of their pets scored much lower baseline heart
rate and blood pressure levels than non-pet owners.
The implication of this study is that people with pets are at less risk
for stress-related illnesses than other groups.
Therefore, the Redwood Coast Humane Society would like to encourage you
to take advantage of this natural means of social support and adopt a
pet into your home.
To find out more about available cats, kittens, dogs or puppies please
call the Redwood Coast Humane Society at 884-1304 and lower your stress
levels with a little help from our furry friends.
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PET NOTES #123 The one about toilet water drinking...
The Redwood Coast Humane Society would like to caution pet owners
about possible irritations to your dog or cat's intestinal tract from
drinking water out of the toilet bowl.
This is because of the presence
of cleaning additives or corrosive agents that can cause vomiting in
our pets.If you suspect your animal of being
sick from the ingestion of diluted toilet bowl cleaners a very small amount
of milk and water may help.
As a common sense caution, pet owners need to keep a lid on the toilet
bowl.
If you suspect that your pet has gotten into a toxic substance the
ASPCA emergency hotline is there for round-the-clock assistance at 1-888-4-ANI-HELP.
That's 1-888-4-ANI-HELP.
For more helpful information about taking proper care of pets please call
the Redwood Coast Humane Society at 884-1304.
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PET NOTES #126 The one about pets needing shelter and
warm beds...
The rains have finally returned and daylight hours are getting shorter
and shorter. THe Redwood Coast Humane Society would like to remind
all of us that just as we need added warmth and protection now, so do
our pets! Please remember to provide shelter for them from the storms
and wet weather, and within that shelter give your pet a warm and comfortable
dry bed.
A good bed provides insulation, support for
their backs, and warmth as well as a feeling of security.
Also, by giving your pet its own bed there will be less dander, pet hair
and dirt in your areas.
For more tips on providing for your pet please call the Redwood Coast
Humane Society at 884-1304.
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PET NOTES #128 The one about adopting a mature animal...
The Redwood Coast Humane Society is looking for a few very good homes
for local mature dogs and cats who are in need.
But, why adopt an older animal? Well, they understand household
routines and are more easily assimilated into existing schedules. They
have already gone through the stages of teething and chewing on things.
They understand potty training and have grown into their true shape,
size, and personality.
Somehow, older animals seem to know that they are being given another
chance at having a caring home and want to show their appreciation.
If you would like to consider adding an older pet to your home please
call the Redwood Coast Humane Society at 884-1304.
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PET NOTES #129 The one about foster help is needed...
The Redwood Coast Humane Society is asking your help in providing
foster homes for local lost or rescued animals.
Because we do not have a "shelter facility" in this community,
pets in need of temporary homes are cared for by loving volunteers. If
you are an animal lover, with some extra space in your heart and home,
please consider fostering a dog, cat, puppy, or kitten while we search
for a permanent appropriate home.
For more information about this or other animal concerns please
call the Redwood Coast Humane Society at 884-1304.
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PET NOTES #130 The one about feeding wild animals...
The Redwood Coast Humane Society, as part of the Humane Society of
the United States, is reminding all of us that feeding wildlife, whether
in our own backyard or in a more natural setting, often results in more
harm than good.
Foods manufactured for humans are rarely nutritionally adequate for wild
animals and may cause them to have serious health problems. Once
wild animals learn that they can boldly forage for human food; conflicts,
nuisance behavior, and risks to us or the safety of our pets are sure
to occur.
Feeding birds, generally, does not fit into this category as long as we
remember to maintain clean and safe areas for bird feeding stations.
Also, if pets are fed outside, take their bowls in at night to prevent
raiding behaviors by your wild neighbors.
To access more helpful hints on animal care please call the Redwood Coast
Humane Society at 884-1304.
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PET NOTES #131 The one about clean bird feeders...
The Redwood Coast Humane Society would like to remind us that according
to the latest findings by the Cornell University Laboratory of Ornithology,
it's OK to feed birds in our yards as long as we remember to provide them
a safe place to eat and promise to clean those feeders!
Dirty feeders spread disease, so it's important to take the time to do
a weekly cleanup.
Here's how: Wash the feeders in soap and water and then soak them
for about 10 minutes in a mild bleach solution of about 1/4 cup of bleach
to one quart of water.
Be sure to rinse the feeders thoroughly...hummingbirds especially hate
the taste of chlorine.
For more tips on how to take proper care of animals please call the Redwood
Coast Humane Society at 884-1304.
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PET NOTES #137 The one about adopting a mature dog
or cat...
Wanted: a few good homes for some lovable mature dogs and cats!
Why adopt an older animal???
1) They understand a basic routine.
2) No more teething on things!
3) They are potty-trained!
4) They are their true shape, size, and personality.
5) They seem to appreciate being given another chance to be in a
family and are extra loving.
If you are ready to open your heart and home to a mature pet please call
the Redwood Coast Humane Society at 884-1304.
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PET NOTES #140 The one about how to find a missing pet...
If your pet wanders off, remember to do the following:
Search day and night in garages, bushes, storage units
Encourage your pet to return by calling, whistling, offering treats
Advertise through neighbors, kids, the Humane Society, newspaper,
the Vet
Read the lost and found pet columns in the local paper
Contact the local radio station with your pet's description and
post pictures
Hunt over and over for your pet
When your pet is found, thank all of those who helped you.
For more information about pets, contact the Redwood Coast Humane Society
at 884-1304.
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PET NOTES #141 The one about how to keep your pet safe...
Keep your pet safe by:
*having current tags or licenses on your pet at all times.
*searching immediately for a missing pet.
*Keeping your dog inside or in a securely fenced yard when unsupervised.
*Teaching your pet to respond to your cues.
*Giving serious thought to keeping cats indoors.
For more information about pet helps, please call the Redwood Coast Humane
Society at 884-1304.
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PET NOTES #143 The one about a summer reading tip...
Summer is the time for relaxation and a good book, and the Redwood
Coast Humane Society offers this tip...Katz on dogs! Yes, Jon K-A-T-Z,
has a new book release called The New Work of Dogs: Tending to Life,
Love and Family in a Changing World. It's about how special
the relationship is between dogs and their people. Happy "dog days"
of reading to you!
And for more information about adopting cats or dogs please call the Redwood
Coast Humane Society at 884-1304.
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PET NOTES #144 The one about how lilies can be deadly
for cats...
The ASPCA has put out a bulletin that varieties of Easter, tiger and
day lilies can be lethal to cats if eaten. Ingesting any part of
these lilies can cause a cat to vomit and have kidney failure within just
a 36-72 hour period. Please remember that as pet owners it is our responsibility
to provide a safe environment for our animals.
For more information about humane treatment of pets, please call the Redwood
Coast Humane Society at 884-1304.
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PET NOTES #147 The one about Halloween safety tips for pets...
The ASPCA offers the following safety tips for pets and pet owners:
- Don't leave your pet out in the yard on Halloween: there
are stories of pets being teased, injured, stolen or worse on this night.
- Trick or treat candies are not for pets: chocolate is poisonous
and wrappers are hazardous if swallowed.
- Keep pets away from a lit pumpkin. It could get knocked
over and start a fire.
- Don't dress the pet in costume, unless he loves it!
- Be careful that your pet does not dart out of an open door; perhaps,
keep the pet in another room.
Remember, pets are depending on you to keep them safe.
For other helps with pet safety, please call the Redwood Coast Humane
Society at 884-1304.
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PET NOTES #149 The one about safety tips
during the holiday season...
The Redwood Coast Humane Society and the ASPCA are asking pet owners
to be mindful of these safety tips during the holiday season:
Ingesting bones, rich sauces, spices, onions, or chocolate can be harmful
to dogs or cats. Instead, offer a treat of lean meat in small amounts.
Plants, such as mistletoe, ivy and holly are poisonous, so be careful
if using them as decorations.
Trees may seem to be a natural climbing post for your cat, so anchor that
Christmas tree securely or it may come tumbling down.
Tinsel and ribbon, if eaten, can cause intestinal damage.
Be kind to your pet this holiday season and keep it safe from harm.
For more tips about animal precautions
please call the Redwood Coast Humane Society at 884-1304.
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