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Pet Adoption: Important Questions to Ask Before Adopting a Pet
Family pets can be procured from several sources including purchasing a pet from a pet store or a private breeder. One can also adopt a pet from an animal shelter, pet adoption center or rescue organization. Families who choose to add a pet are well advised to first seek out a perfect match from a local animal shelter or pet adoption center. Historically, animal shelters have been given a bad reputation in the discussion of where to find the perfect pet. Those myths are dated and have been largely dispelled at most municipal government animal shelters, foundation supported shelters and adoption centers. Many shelters today have full time veterinary services, so pets are examined and receive the necessary treatments as soon as they are admitted to the shelters and before the adoption process begins. There is usually a 3 to 4 day waiting period to check the health, disposition and adoptability of a specific animal before it is placed up for adoption. This is a standard procedure unless a pet is brought in by his or her owner to be put up for adoption. Typically, animals must be given vaccinations, be cleaned, groomed and spayed or neutered before they are allowed to be taken from the shelter for adoption. Additionally, most shelters require an identification microchip be inserted under the skin as a form of permanent identification. It’s possible to place a “hold” on a specific pet, while he or she undergoes the necessary preparations for adoption. Of course, payment for adoption fees must be settled before the animal is taken from the adoption center.
SUMMER SAFETY FOR PETS
Summer has arrived, although I am aware that some of you in many parts of the United States went directly from winter to summer without the slow transition of spring. Nevertheless, hot weather is upon us and we should all be aware that there are some definite dos and don’ts that should be observed in the summer all across the country regarding our pets.
Which Cats are Hypoallergenic?
Most people think their allergic reactions to cats come from the animals’ fur. In reality, the source of the allergy originates in the saliva of the cat. When cats grooms themselves, allergens are transmitted throughout their coats and shed around the house.
THE COCKER SPANIEL
Cocker Spaniel
Happy is one word to describe a cocker spaniel. This dog is active and will happily escort you to the park, play around in the yard, fetch a lost item or even go fishing. These dogs are trainable with a gentle charm that’s inviting to play. Their love for water is equal to wagging their tails which are their signature. The world loves this dog for its big ears, dreamy eyes and intriguing personality.
Brief History
There are two types of Cocker Spaniels: the English bred Cocker Spaniel and the American one but both descended from Europe, specifically England and Spain. The name Spaniel refers to a large Spaniel family dating back to antiquity. Spaniel itself means Spanish dog. In Spain, this dog was divided into two categories, toys and large hunting dogs. Hunting Spaniels were further divided into two categories, water and land Spaniels. The term Cocker refers to this dog’s excellence in hunting field woodcock.
American Spaniel fanciers began importing this breed in the late 1870s. In 1881, the American Spaniel club, the oldest breed club in America, was formed by James Watson and Clinton Wilmerding. This breed club comprised of many different types of Spaniel breeders. Later on, as the differences in the spaniel breed became refined, breeders split off into separate organizations. With time, Cocker Spaniels grew popular both with the public and with breeders. With this popularity came a much favored smaller type of this breed, which had a different conformation to the English Cocker.
In 1936 a specialty club known as English Cocker Spaniel Club of America was formed by English breeders. This club gained recognition at the American Kennel Club for their special type of English Cocker.
Physical Features
Cocker Spaniels belong to the sporting group and are perhaps the smallest members. They have a refined head, compact and sturdy body. They stand up well at the shoulder with muscular quarters that are moderately bent yet strong.
Average Height:
13.5-15.5 inches
Average Weight:
20-30 pounds
Life Expectancy:
10-14 years
Temperament
If a Cocker Spaniel is well bred, it will exhibit a sweet endearing temperament. Its cuddly and affectionate nature makes it fun to be with and it will always participate in family activities willingly without a fuss. Spaniels are sensitive dogs both physically and mentally, they don’t respond well to harsh treatment because of their soft personality and if in pain they often resort to snapping or growling.
Special Needs
Cocker Spaniels don’t respond well to instructive commands, rather if you are training them, do it sensitively and with reassurance. They need to be socialized and trained at an early age to learn proper canine manners.
Possible Health Concerns
These are healthy dogs but like all other dog breeds, they remain susceptible to some diseases and conditions. These conditions and diseases are: Autoimmune hemolytic anemia, Hypothyroidism, allergies, Primary seborrhea, eye problems, ear infections, epilepsy, Patellar luxation and canine hip dysplasia.
Cocker Spaniel dog
Exercise
Due to their high energy levels, Cocker Spaniels need a daily exercise routine preferably 1- 2 hours every day. They are not picky and any fun exercise is ideal for them.
Nutrition
Spaniels have big appetites and are also protective of their food. The best food to feed them is dry food, 1.5 to 2.5 cups every day, though this amount will vary with the dog’s age, build, size, metabolism and activity level. Best to consult with your veterinarian.
Cocker Spaniel dog breed
Grooming
The Cocker Spaniel’s coat varies in length being short at the head and back. It grows longer on the ears, belly, chest and legs. The coat may be a solid color: light cream, white, black, red and brown, or parti-color which is two or more of these colors. Due to its varied length, it’s advisable to wash the coat using shampoo at least twice a week. Comb the coat daily and trim if necessary to maintain a certain desired length. Clean their ears and eyes daily and also brush their teeth twice or thrice a week.
BEHAVIORAL DIFFERENCES IN CATS AND DOGS
Having both a dog and a cat at home isn’t unusual. They are two creatures that can live in harmony together. Pet owners do the same for both as far as caring for them goes. They provide them with food, shelter, and water. Cats and dogs still share a few obvious differences… and not just their size. Here are five ways having dogs is different from having cats.
THE FRENCH BULLDOG
The French Bulldog, also known as the Bouledogue Francais, or Frenchie, looks like a miniature Bulldog. The Frenchie originated from France, and was bred from miniature Bulldogs as a companion dog. This is a muscular and heavily boned breed, with a short tail, large bat-like ears, and heavily wrinkled skin around the head, neck and shoulders. Frenchies are fun and affectionate dogs.
Brief History
During the late 19th Century, the French Bulldog was bred as a companion dog by English lace workers who emigrated to France. The English dogs were bred with local dogs in France, and soon this breed became fashionable.
Physical Features
The French Bulldog has a large, square head with an upturned nose, and a short and wrinkled muzzle. Their ears are naturally upright, rounded with a batlike appearance. Their skin is soft, with wrinkles at the head, neck and shoulders. Coats can be brindle, fawn, white, or brindle and white.
Average Height:
11-13 inches
Average Weight:
18-28 pounds
Life Expectancy:
10-12 years
Temperament
This breed is affectionate, alert, curious and intelligent. They get along with other dogs and people and make for great guard dogs, but don’t bark as much as smaller breeds. French Bulldogs adapt easily to apartment life since they don’t require a lot of exercise. Although this breed can be stubborn, they are easy keepers, and do best with positive training and plenty of socialization. This breed is gentle with children, and also enjoys living with single pet parents.
Special Needs
This is a brachycephalic breed, also known as a short-faced or snub-nosed breed, and needs to have plenty of protection from heatstroke. This breed does well indoors during extreme temperatures. They also need to be supervised when around water or swimming pools – they can’t swim due to their front-heavy build.
Possible Health Concerns
Since French Bulldogs have flat faces, they are more sensitive to anesthesia. They may also be susceptible to:
Atopic Dermatitis. A common allergic skin condition. Constant itching and scratching leads to hair loss and scabbing, resulting in secondary bacterial infections. Treatment involves antihistamines, change of environment, essential fatty acid supplements (EFA), and medicated shampoos.
Congenital Vertebral Anomalies. French Bulldogs may have deformities of the bones in the spine resulting in pressure of the spinal cord, progressive pain, and possibly loss of hind limb function.
Brachycephalic Syndrome. Dogs with this problem will snore, snort and breathe through their mouths.
Elongated Soft Palate. A long palate may result in blockage of part of the airway into the lungs. This causes breathing difficulties, and can be corrected surgically with a high success rate, most especially if the dog is under a year.
Heatstroke. French Bulldogs are more susceptible to heat than many other dog breeds.
Exercise
The French Bulldog does well with light exercise, such as a short walk around the block or brief trip to the dog park. This breed enjoys dog training classes, obedience, agility and some rally sports. However, they should never exert themselves during hot or humid temperatures.
Nutrition
Every dog is different, and some brands of food will be better suited for certain dogs. When it comes to dog foods, understanding your pet’s current health and nutritional needs is important. Consult with your veterinarian for advice. There is no best diet since all French Bulldogs have different dietary needs, so it’s always smart to find the best food to match each individual dog.
Grooming
Daily brushing with a rubber mitt or medium bristle brush will aid in removing loose hair and keep the coat healthy and shiny. Make sure the loose folds around their necks are kept clean and wiped daily, and regularly trim their nails.
Because the French Bulldog is a low energy breed, they make for a wonderful, family-friendly adoption.
THE PERSIAN LONGHAIR CAT
The Persian Longhair is one of the oldest cat breeds. They originated in Persia, or Iran, as it is known today. During the seventeenth century, nobility enjoyed the Persian cat breed. Pietro Del Val imported the first Persian cat to Europe in 1626.
Brief History
The Persian Longhair is known for its round face and short muzzle. The “Iranian cat”, as it is called in the Middle East, and the “Shirazi cat” in Iran, were first brought into Italy from Iran around 1620. Breeding of the long haired Persian took place in Italy and France after this cat breed became popular throughout Europe. In 1870 the first Persian cat attended a cat show in London, U.K. The Persian then arrived in the U.S in the early 1900’s.
The earlier Persian breed had a much longer nose than today’s Persian, which has a flat-face. By 2015, the Persian was the second most popular cat breed in the United States. Today’s Persian cats are related to the Western European cats. The Persian differs from the Angora cat breed in that their tails and heads are larger with ears that are less pointy.
Physical Features
With a large round head, and large round eyes, the Persian has a short nose and full cheeks. Their legs are short and thick, with paws that are strong and round. Their tails full and are in proportion to the body. Their necks are powerful and thick. Persians have long and thick coats with long ruffs around their necks. Their front legs typically sport a frill of fur and their ears and toes have tufts of long hair. There are two types of Persians:
Peke-faced Persians (more flat-faced)
Doll-faced Persians (less flat-faced)
There are seven solid color divisions:
White
Blue
Black
Cream
Chocolate (rare)
Lilac (rare)
Red
White Persian cats will have blue or copper eyes or one of each. Silver and Golden Division Persian cats yield chinchilla, shaded silver and golden colors. The chinchilla colored cat is white with black tipping scattered all over the face, legs, tail, and body. Shaded Persians will have black on their backs, with it being distributed evenly down the body. Leg and face tipping on the Persian should match, and yields a darker color than chinchilla. Golden Persians will have chinchilla coloring or shading. Green or blue-green eyes are matched with silvers and Guldens Paw pads are black and are matched with a red nose.
Smoke and Shaded Division Persians yield shell and cameo colors with a red tipping and white undercoat. Shell and shaded tortoiseshell Persians yield black tipping with patches of red tipped hair. Shell and shaded blue Persians will have a blue tipping with patches of cream hair.
Tabby Persian Cats come in classic, mackerel and patched. The Classic tabby will have bull’s eye markings on either side of the body. The mackerel will have narrow penciling throughout the body. There are also bicolor, particolor, and Himalayan Divisions of the Persian cat breed.
Average Height:
10-15 inches
Average Weight:
7-12 pounds
Life Expectancy:
7-15 years
Temperament
The Persian Cat breed is a sweet and kind cat breed that enjoys being pampered. Although super feisty if not exercised or mentally stimulated, the Persian fancies lots of cuddles and cute cat toys. The Persian can be aloof when needing time alone, but are also affectionate with immediate family. Persian cats do well in a quiet home without lots of disruptions. This wonderful cat breed tends to be placid in nature and friendly with strangers.
Persian cats have a compliant nature, and are easy to live with. These beautiful cats are docile, and adapt easily to new environments.
Special Needs
The Persian does best as an indoor cat. This cat breed thrives on affection, and plenty of cat toys. Pet parents should make sure to keep their Persian indoors during the hot summer months, as they can overheat easily. The Persian gets bored when alone for long periods of time. Eye tearing may be a problem with this cat breed. Inactive cats tend to pick up weight, and are prone to more medical conditions like liver disease.
Possible Health Concerns
The Persian is a healthy and moderately active cat breed that may be susceptible to the following health conditions:
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM): This is a heart muscle disorder where the heart walls of the left ventricle thicken. This results in the walls becoming stiffer. This is a common primary heart disease in cats. It tends to noticed at around 3 months to 17 years of age. Most cats will be middle aged when this disorder occurs. This disorder tends to affect males more than females, and it is an inherited genetic defect. Symptoms may include difficulty breathing, weakness or paralysis of the hind limbs. Fluid may also accumulate in the lungs, and in the space between the lungs and chest wall. Veterinary treatment will aim at improving cardiac function, and reducing blood clots. There is a good longterm outlook for mildly affected cats. Consult with your veterinarian for advice.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy: This is a group of diseases that cause degeneration of the retina. This also includes inherited abnormalities of the light-sensitive retina layer. Cataracts are common toward the end of PRA. This results in it being difficult to detect underlying diseases of the retina. Consult with your veterinarian.
Basil Cell Carcinoma: These are malignant tumors that occur most often in elderly cats. The Persian cat breed is very susceptible to this. They will first show up as ulcers on the head, legs, or neck, and are not raised from the skin. Instead they will spread and form new ulcers. Surgery is the best treatment for removal. These tumors will spread to other areas of the skin, but not to organs.
Hip Dysplasia: This is rare in domestic cats, and is common in purebred cats. This occurs when the hip joint is loose, and leads to degenerative joint disease. (osteoarthritis) Symptoms include lameness that can be mild to severe. Cats generally need no surgery for hip dysplasia. Weight reduction can help reduce discomfort.
Heat Sensitivity: Cats will sweat through their foot pads. The Persian needs to be kept indoors during the hot summer months. This cat breed needs lots of fresh water to drink, cool places to lie in, and a cool home during extreme summers. Flat –faced cats and Persians have breathing problems, and don’t pant as well as other cat breeds. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include a fast heart rate, sunken eyes, and excessive panting. If your Persian is a senior cat or is obese, it will be necessary to watch closely for heat exhaustion.
Cherry Eye (Eyelid Protrusion): This is a disorder of the third eyelid, resulting in swollen redness of the eye. It is more common in Persian cats. Consult with your veterinarian for advice.
Entropion: This is the inversion of the lower lid. It is more common among purebred cat breeds like the Persian cat.
Polycystic Kidney Disease. This occurs when the polycystic kidney has numerous cysts within the functioning part of the kidney resulting in enlarged kidneys. Consult with your veterinarian if your Persian vomits frequently, has a decreased appetite, and increased thirst or urination.
Ringworm: This is an infection of the skin, hair, or claws, and is caused by a fungus called dermatophyte. This occurs in 98% of cats. It spreads easily from cats to people. Symptoms include circular, bald patches that scale and have broken hairs in a ring-like fashion. Consult with your veterinarian for advice.
Skin Disorders: The Persian may be prone to skin disorders. Persian cats are prone to idiopathic seborrhea. This is an inherited skin disorder resulting in the overproduction of an oily substance. This clumps in the cat’s fur, and causes it to smell bad. Symptoms include red and irritated skin with excessive scratching. Consult your veterinarian for advice.
Exercise
The Persian cat breed needs daily exercise combined with plenty of mental stimulation through active play and interaction with people. Finding a variety of mentally stimulating cat toys will allow for your Persian to lead a well-balanced life, with the right amount of exercise and cognitive stimulation. Cat harnesses also allow for daily walks.
Nutrition
All cats do well by being fed twice daily. During kittenhood, kittens will need to be fed every few hours. Growing kittens need more calories, nutrients, vitamins, protein, and calories. Your Persian cat should be able to enjoy a peaceful meal in a quiet corner of the house. Some cat parents prefer to leave cat food out 24/7. When looking for a high-quality cat food, here’s what to look out for:
No low-quality fillers
No artificial additives
Low grade ingredients or toxic ingredients
All cat food has to be meat-based because all cats are carnivores.
No garlic
Plant-based ingredients should be listed after the protein-based ingredients
Consult with your veterinarian for the best dietary advice for your Persian cat.
Grooming
The Persian cat needs daily grooming to prevent hair from matting and removing shedding fur to avoid hairballs. Because this breed has a long and wonderfully soft coat, extra grooming care is required. Stainless steel combs help to remove dead hair. Care must be taken when grooming leg hair and body hair to avoid missing spots that could tangle or mat easily. All cat breeds will groom themselves several times throughout the day. Daily grooming is necessary because it limits the amount of hair that your cat will consume.
Daily cleaning with pet wipes beneath the tail is necessary. Ears should be checked weekly for cleanliness and sensitivity. If there is a buildup of wax and dirt, organisms can lead to an ear infection. Consult with your veterinarian about safe and gentle ear cleaning techniques. Nail trimming is necessary every few weeks. Eyes should also be cleaned gently every morning with cotton wool or a soft wipe. Each eye should be cleaned with different wipes or cotton balls to avoid eye infection contamination in both eyes.
Healthy Persians need minimal bathing with a gentle cat shampoo. Your cat will need dental care as well. By feeding dry food, and having professional dental cleanings with your veterinarian throughout your cat’s lifetime, your cat will have less of a chance of developing gingivitis or gum disease.
What Are Whippets?
A Whippet is a dog breed that is part of the sighthound family, although they often are mistaken for greyhounds. They are slender and have a light gait. These dogs are playful and friendly, and they have grown in popularity over the last several years. Whippets can range from about 25 to 40 pounds and have a wide variety of colors and patterns. Unlike dogs such as German Shepherds, their markings are not significant to the breed, so their looks will vary. Generally they will be friendly to visitors, but are not very fond of cats that come onto their territory unless the cat is already a member of the family.
