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Summertime Pet Care: Safe Tick Removal
Ah, yes...for some people and pets in many parts of the United States the summer of 2014 was a most welcome change after a record winter of snow and artic cold. We couldn’t wait to hit the bicycle and walking paths through the woods and the dog parks to help work off the extra pounds gained throughout the harsh winter. But wait, there may be some critters lurking on the hairy bodies of our beloved dogs and cats that have the potential to cause problems as we move into the latter months of warm weather. Caution: your pet may have been in contact with nasty external parasites that can not only cause irritation and discomfort, but bring disease to both you and your pet. Here is a brief overview of what could be a problem. Your veterinarian can determine if there is cause for alarm.
THE CHIHUAHUA
The Chihuahua originated from Mexico and is named after its home state. Although its history is vague, it is believed that both the Toltec and the Aztec cultures raised small dogs called the Techichi. Many believe this breed is one of the ancient ancestors of the modern-day Chihuahua.
Brief History
The Techichi was refined by the Aztecs into a smaller dog breed over time and became an important part of their culture. This hardy little dog lived in small villages in the mid 1800’s when travelers from the U.S developed a liking to them in Mexico. The first Chihuahua was registered in 1908 with the AKC.
Physical Features
The Chihuahua is a compact little dog and often slightly longer than they are tall. This very feisty breed has a large, rounded skull with a short pointed muzzle and large, full eyes. Their ears are large and erect with outward-pointing tips. This breed has a long, thin tail which is either carried up or in a loop over their backs.
The Chihuahua typically has either a longhaired or a short, smooth coat. They also have a large ruff around the neck and feathering on the tail, feet, and legs.
This breed may be any color with a solid, marked or splashed coat. The most common coat colors found in Chihuahua’s are fawn, sable, red, black and tan, tricolor, and brindle.
Average Height:
6-9 inches
Average Weight:
2-6 pounds
Life Expectancy:
12-20 years
Temperament
The Chihuahua has a ‘terrier-like’ attitude — a small dog with a big attitude! The Chihuahua is extremely alert, barks a lot, and is very sensitive to noise. This breed needs plenty of socialization around other dogs, animals and people from puppyhood.
The Chihuahua also does well with positive training which helps them socialize with other dogs and people. That said, this very self-reliant dog breed does not do well with children and prefers a relaxed household with an elderly adult.
If socialized from a young age, the Chihuahua is great with other animals, dogs and people, but will still need plenty of time to feel comfortable. If you’re looking for a feisty, yet sensitive buddy, the Chihuahua might be the companion for you.
This sensitive breed will need time to adjust to new surroundings and will be very nervous at first. It may take a few weeks for them to adapt, but once they’ve settled down, there’s no turning back. They have some big personality, loving companionship and lots of laughs.
Special Needs
This breed tends to get scared very easily and does not like loud noises. Pet parents need to be careful that Chihuahua does not run away when off-leash. Early socialization with other dogs, people and animals is highly recommended. Chihuahuas also tend to bark a lot when afraid.
Possible Health Concerns
The Chihuahua is an active dog breed that may be susceptible to the following:
Heart Problems. Mitral Valve Disease also known as MVD occurs when the mitral valve thickens and degrades over time. Coughing and difficulty breathing are symptoms.
Eye Diseases. Dry eye is a common eye problem in this breed and has the potential to cause blindness. Consult with your veterinarian if you notice excessive blinking, sticky or red eyes.
Patellar Luxation. This happens when the kneecap is dislocated. If left untreated it can lead to arthritis.
Exercise
The Chihuahua needs regular daily walks and off-leash trips to the dog park. Although this breed is small, exercise is crucial for good health and mental stimulation. That said, the Chihuahua enjoys going everywhere. Trips to the mall, bookstore and grocery store are always welcome! This breed also enjoys hanging out at home and is very easy to look after.
Nutrition
Some Chihuahua’s pick up weight easily, and can quickly become obese. Pet parents should never underestimate the importance of a well-balanced diet. Chihuahua pet parents should assess their dog’s activity level, age, breed, and any medical conditions that he or she may be prone to. Consulting with your veterinarian about the best high-quality food options will help to give your Chihuahua a longer and healthier life. Providing your Chihuahua with fresh fruits, salmon, chicken, vegetables, minerals and fiber are a plus.
Grooming
The Chihuahua does a fair amount of self-cleaning. That said, daily grooming is always recommended along with regular bathing, brushing teeth, ear cleaning, and nail trimming. Visits to the veterinarian are recommended for teeth cleaning twice a year. Dental hygiene is crucial in small dogs. The Chihuahua enjoys being bathed, and if long haired, does well at the groomers. Occasional shedding may occur!
THE ABYSSINIAN CAT
Abyssinian cats get their name from the term Abyssinia which was a former name for Ethiopia. A breed with fine bone and elaborate pose Abyssinian cats never fail to impress us. They have a tabby yet multi-colored coat that gives them an intricate look and elegant appearance.
Brief History
There are many stories that surround the Abyssinian cat’s origins however many cat fanciers believe that this breed’s first ancestors were from parts of Southeast Asia and the Indian Ocean coast. Traders within these regions were accredited for the cat’s migration into other continental parts such as Arabia and Africa. Some breeds said to be in the Abyss genetic background are Russian Blues, Burnese and Siamese. During the 19th century the breed became famous in Great Britain with belief that British soldiers deployed in various parts of Africa and Asia brought it back home by the end of their expeditions.
Physical Features
The Abyssinian is quite slender but with fine bone and an average body size. They have almond shaped eyes that glare with expression while their ears are large and tend to be pointed with alertness. A kitten Abyssinian is born with a dark coat that lightens with age and as they proceed into adulthood their coats become soft, silky to the touch and ideally fine but close lying and dense.
Average Height:
8-10 inches
Average Weight:
8-12 pounds
Life Expectancy:
9-15 years
Temperament
Abyssinians are generally friendly in nature showing affection for kids and other pets. They are also playful, dislike being lonely or in boring environments and can make good therapy pets thanks to this appeal. As for the family an Abyssinian’s affection is averagely placed meaning that they neither love nor hate to belong to a particular grouping. Everything they do is done willingly and with enthusiasm making them one cat breed that knows how to live every second of their life to the fullest. Any activity, be it play, climbing, jumping or running is done with energy and passion.
Abyssinian cat
Special Needs
They are not the lazing around type of cats, and with a high level of intelligence they can act according to your mood. If it’s time for play, you’ll definitely have a playmate. If you want to easily get along with your Abyssinian it’s a good idea to ensure that the type of relationship that exists between you is complementary rather than opposing.
Possible Health Concerns
Just like all other pedigreed and mixed-breed cats, Abyssinians are vulnerable to certain diseases that may be hereditary or those caused through certain mutation flaws. The most fatal genetic condition is Pyruvate kinase deficiency. Pyruvate Kinase is an enzyme present in all red blood cell bearing animals. This enzyme is necessary for energy metabolism within the red blood cells. The Pyruvate Kinase deficiency is caused by a recessive gene and it is a known hereditary condition in various cat breeds. This deficiency may show in kittens as young as 6 months or even older cats of 12 years and more. Breeders are advised to have their stock screened for this condition since has no known treatment. Other diseases and health conditions are: Hyperesthesia syndrome, Patellar luxation, Progressive retinal atrophy and Renal amyloidosis.
Exercise
Exercise to the Abyssinian should be equal to play. Keep in mind that they are very energetic and enthusiastic cats who’d rather be involved in a fun muscle exciting activity rather than a boring one that inspires little or no muscle movement. The country side or a yard with plenty of trees for them to climb is essential. Regular climbing keeps their joints active and to get down, they’d rather jump as heights do not scare them.
Grooming
Abyssinians have a short coat that doesn’t shed a lot. This coat is easy to maintain and weekly grooming should be enough to remove any dead hairs and keep it shiny and healthy. Trim the nails every fortnight and brush the teeth regularly to prevent it from contracting periodontal disease.
These cats make excellent pets as they are very independent and well-mannered thus needing less supervisory attention from their owners.
COMMON ILLNESSES IN DOGS AND CATS
Looking after a pet is a great responsibility, and along with the love and joy it brings, there’s also the upkeep of its welfare and wellbeing.
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.
THE BOSTON TERRIER
boston terrier dog breed
Boston Terriers are friendly and highly adaptable. Considered a charmer among dog breeds, they play well with fellow dogs, children, and also cats. This breed is enthusiastic and has a lively attitude. Here’s a look at the history of Boston Terriers and everything you need to know to take care of one.
Brief History
Some call the Boston Terrier the first true purebred dog in the U.S. They’re widely known as the “American Gentleman” thanks to a somber and good-natured style and their coloring that looks like a tuxedo.
Initially bred as fighting dogs, today they are more lovers than fighters.
There are different accounts of the Boston Terrier’s history but what’s most agreed-on is that breed originated from a dog named Judge, a Bulldog/English Terrier mix. He was only bred once. Offspring that originated from Judge came to be known as Boston Terriers.
Physical Features
Boston Terriers stand at about 12 to 17 inches from the shoulders, and their weight is anywhere between 10 to 25 pounds. The current generation of Terriers has a face much similar to its ancestral generations with a wrinkle less, broad and flat nosed face. Their neckline is slightly arched with a broad chest, but their overall body appearance is sturdy and boxy.
Average Height:
15-17 inches
Average Weight:
10-25 pounds
Life Expectancy:
11-13 years
Temperament
Boston Terriers are lovable dogs. Fun to be around because they love company, especially children, and play is never a matter to fuss over. They are apartment-friendly with low barking tendencies.
Special Needs
They are lovable creatures, require attention and company for them to belong. They connect easily with human emotions and if their owner is hurting, they sense it immediately and try in whatever way to lighten the mood. They have some habits that are more pronounced than other breeds, such as snorting, drooling, slobbering, wheezing, snoring and snuffing.
Possible Health Concerns
Flat faces: Boston Terriers are a brachycephalic dog breed, meaning they have flat faces. Minor health problems include snoring, but these dogs could have breathing problems that necessitate surgery.
Hemivertebrae: Their corkscrew tails indicate this condition, which has to do with lack of development in their spine bones. This doesn’t impact all dogs, but signals that there’s a problem include difficulty walking.
Eye problems: Due to their flat faces, this breed is prone to eye problems like cataracts, corneal ulcers and glaucoma.
Deafness: Some Boston Terriers are deaf in one ear, others totally deaf.
Luxating patellas: This refers to a condition where the dog’s kneecaps can slip out of place. Small dogs are prone to this issue, and it’s possible that it can require surgery to correct.
boston terrier dog
Exercise
This breed loves to play but doesn’t have many exercise needs. A couple of morning or evening walks and play in between is enough to keep your Boston Terrier alive and heart healthy.
boston terrier
Nutrition
Feeding your Boston Terrier should be a cautious activity. Despite their small size, they love to eat and can be gluttonous in nature. It’s up to you as its owner to control what they eat and what they shouldn’t. Give your Terrier high quality dry food preferably 0.5 to 1.5 cups which should be divided into 2 meals a day. This is but an average amount, the much your dog will eat depends on its age, activity level, metabolism, size and build.
Grooming
Boston Terriers have a fine and smooth coat which tends to lie flat against their bodies. There are 3 common coat colors: black, brindle/red and seal which tends to look a lot like black. They often look like they’re wearing a tuxedo thanks to their chests, faces and white muzzles. Grooming this dog isn’t much of a task and weekly coat brushing is enough to keep all dry and dead hair in check. While bathing them, shampoo their coats to keep them clean and healthy. Clean their faces and eyes daily to prevent them from contracting any eye disease.
If you want a small lovable dog to have around your home, a Boston Terrier is a good option.
All About Llamas
Ahh, the lovable Llama. This mammal weighs in at around 250 lbs and reaches a height of 47 inches.
WHY DO DOGS LICK PAWS?
For our canine friends, paw licking can be a grooming habit. This is often seen when dogs have been out for a long walk in rugged conditions, or it might be part of their daily groom.
