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5 Reasons Your Pet Needs Insurance
You insure your home, your house, yourself and your family. But did you know that there’s another family member you need to look out for? Just like you find yourself suddenly sick and in need of a doctor, your pets will too. Don’t let the health of your furry friend to come down to what you can afford.
THE MASTIFF
The Mastiff, also known as the Old English Mastiff is believed to have originated from the Tibetan Mastiff. This is an ancient dog breed that was developed for guarding and fighting. The Tibetan Mastiff and Neapolitan Mastiff are examples of the ancient breeds.
Brief History
The British Mastiff, known as the AKC Mastiff, is also an ancient breed. This breed originated from Mastiff-type dogs called draft animals, known as tinker dogs. Their ancestor, the Molossus, was recognized 5,000 years ago. They were commonly used for pulling heavy tools on their backs for their owners.
The ancient dogs were muscular dogs used to turn wheels to draw well water as well as herd cattle and oxen. The most important task of the ancient day Mastiff was to guard and protect family, a role that remains unchanged today. This breed is dedicated to being the best family guard dog!
Other aggressive breeds were used for hunting and baiting large animals. But these puppies were typically raised amongst cows and cattle in order to train them to protect them from wolves and other prey. They have been used in South African farms for protection against wildlife, and terrorism. Today this breed is a popular choice for families living in rural areas. They are wonderfully sweet family dogs.
Physical Features
This is a large, powerful dog breed in both height and build. This breed combines grandeur with good nature. They are intelligent, not excitable, but affectionate towards their pet parents. This breed requires plenty of human contact and a high–quality diet. They’re best suited to a home where there are opportunities for exercise.
Their heads are rectangular-shaped, with short muzzles and small, V-shaped drop ears. This breed has a broad, dark, nose, and brown eyes with a smooth, short coat. Their coloring is typically fawn-colored, apricot, or brindle, with fawn or apricot as the main color. They have dark facial masks.
Average Height:
27.5 – 30 inches
Average Weight:
Males: 160-230 pounds
Females: 120-170 pounds
Life Expectancy:
8-10 years
Temperament
This breed is best described as heroic, calm and very loyal. They’re also extremely confident and easy-going. They make great protectors and are kind with children.
Mastiffs seem to assess every situation before acting. They know how powerful they are and don’t act without reason. They make great family dogs and love to feel like part of the brood. This breed should never be left to live outdoors, but instead pet parents should enjoy and involve their dogs in as many family activities possible. By doing so, these dogs become serene and docile, yet still make great family guard dogs.
Mastiffs need to feel that they belong to a family and will only protect and defend those that they respect and have bonded with.
They do well with positive training starting at puppyhood. Owners should start socializing them around 4 weeks old. They do best if they’re introduced to different people, other animals and children from puppyhood. They enjoy dog parks, dog beaches, long hikes and some organized canine sporting activities.
Special Needs
These dogs aren’t satisfied if left at home with nothing to do. This breed will need to have a job like protecting your cattle, children, or home; or going to dog training classes and shows.
The Mastiff is born with a guarding instinct, and a truly sensitive nature. It’s recommended not to use the traditional training methods like Schutzhund, as they will destroy a Mastiff’s mellow temperament, turning them into aggressive dogs that will become impossible to live with.
This breed needs plenty of socialization, training, and needs to keep busy. They need to stay fit and healthy, because they have a tendency to become overweight. Apartment living is not recommended.
Possible Health Concerns
The Mastiff is an active dog breed that may be susceptible to:
Hip Dysplasia is a hereditary developmental disease. HD occurs when the hip joint fails to develop properly. In Mastiffs with HD, the head of the thigh bone does not fall into the hip socket. The imperfect fit results in the joint becoming loose and unstable. This leads to osteoarthritis.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is the name for a group of diseases that cause degeneration of the retina. This will include inherited abnormalities of the light-sensitive cells.
Hypothyroidism a deficiency of the thyroid hormone, and can cause weight gain in Mastiffs, as well as constipation, and cold sensitivity.
Exercise
This dog breed needs regular exercise and plenty of off-leash runs.
When they’re younger they shouldn’t play with larger dogs. As puppies, they enjoy playing so much that they may forget how big the other dog really is. Make sure to protect your Mastiff puppy from injury when he is playing with other dogs.
Because this breed goes through growth spurts, they often become out of balance. Their hindquarters may grow higher than their front, thus shifting their weight load. They may place their front feet down incorrectly trying to compensate for being out of balance, putting them at risk for numerous injuries.
Nutrition
Since this dog is prone to obesity, owners will need to keep portion control in mind. Veterinarians can help determine how many calories this dog needs each day, and will help address any weight issues they may have. It’s important not to elimiate vial nutrition in the process.
This breed needs encouragement to eat slowly, which will also help to reduce digestive problems and bloat. It’s a good idea to use a Slow Feeder, which comes in different sizes.
Grooming
The Mastiff’s short coat is easy to groom. During heavy shedding that occurs twice yearly, extra grooming will be needed. Daily brushing with a rubber mitt or medium bristle brush will aid in removing loose hair, and in keeping their coats healthy and shiny. Nails need to be trimmed regularly.
Because this is a low energy breed, they make a great addition to any home. Socialization, positive dog training, and maintaining the correct diet with plenty of exercise will keep your Mastiff happy and healthy.
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 BIRMAN CAT
The Birman is a well composed cat with a sweet, tolerant and friendly nature. Also known as the sacred cats of Burma, this breed has very ancient origins which still remain unknown to the world of cat fanciers, standards and federations. Today’s Birman makes an excellent therapy pet suitable for families with children.
Brief History
There are many stories on the history of the Birman’s true origins. One common legend speaks of the Birman’s ancestors as holy cats that were kept at Mount Lugh temple in Burma. By early 20th century in around 1919 Birmans were introduced in France which became the first country in Europe to host this breed. European Cat fanciers visiting France from England and Germany took this breed back home and within no time the Birman grew quite popular amongst European households. Its migration from Europe to Australia was the next forthcoming step and from this country together with France, Germany and England, the Birman made its way into American soil.
Physical Features
The Birman is of medium size and has a round face with full cheeks. The ears are small while the oval shaped eyes are blue in color. Within their medium size is a strongly built body covered in a coat of lush and silky fur which feels soft when touched.
Average Height:
8-10 inches
Average Weight:
8-12 pounds
Life Expectancy:
13-15 years
Temperament
The Birman is friendly, highly social, self-assured and outgoing. Birmans are confident in familiar environments however their curiosity always leads them to a trail that they must explore. A strange environment is captivating to this cat and they’ll spend more time roaming about. If provoked or afraid a Birman will always glare at the source of provocation or fear before turning back to seek the comfort and reassurance of its owner.
Birman cat breed
Special Needs
The Birman cat is a gentle yet loyal breed that doesn’t like being left alone and always adores human company. If its owners are away, it will go to the nearest possible human company known or not known to them. This is a breed that participates in activities but not in an overly excited manner. Giving your pet Birman the freedom to explore its environment is crucial as they don’t like being put on a leash or behind closed doors for long periods.
Possible Health Concerns
As with all cat breeds both mixed-breed or pedigreed, Birmans are vulnerable to certain genetic disorders as well as health conditions. Breeders are advised to carefully screen their breeding stock for these health issues: Congenital hypotrichosis, Corneal dermoid, Spongiform degeneration, kittens born trembling or shaking and unusually high concentrations of creatinine or urea in the blood.
Exercise
Being curious cats, Birmans leave this nature for their passionate explorations rather than exercise. They exhibit moderate energy levels that requires little play and activity. Routine exercise doesn’t move this breed and if you want to instill this ideal you need to use positive methods that entice its curiosity. Exercise time should be adhered to strictly so your cat stays in good shape.
Nutrition
Birmans love feeding time more than any other time. During exercise, you can use treats to motivate this cat and make it livelier.
Grooming
The Birman’s long and lush coat doesn’t matt easily and requires minimal maintenance. They love to be washed and brushed making this grooming routine enjoyable to them and their owners. Its dense coat sheds but lightly so during this time its always ideal to brush the coat regularly and keep any loose dead hairs out.
Cat Sounds: What Do They Mean?
Every cat owner knows that cats are good at vocalizing their needs. Some cats talk more than others, but you know your cat wants something when he starts meowing. He might want to go outside, or maybe he is hungry. But beyond the typical plaintive “meow,” cats have plenty to say. Your cat will offer up a whole selection of other sounds.
THE AMERICAN SHORTHAIR CAT
The American Shorthair is a domesticated cat breed that originated in Europe, and was brought over by early settlers. This cat breed was a ratter used to protect cargo on ships from mice. This is a pedigreed cat breed that is accepted by all North American cat registries.
Brief History
The American Shorthair sailed with sailors from Europe to North America. Many travelled on the Mayflower with the Pilgrims and interbred. They developed special traits to survive the U.S climate and lifestyle. By the beginning of the 20th century, a selective breeding program stipulated the American Shorthair breed standards. This breed was first named the Domestic Shorthair. This changed in 1966 when it was changed to the American Shorthair. This breed is a working cat breed, since it originally was used to kill mice on board ships.
Physical Features
The American Shorthair has a round face and short ears, a well-built body, a strong chest, powerful shoulders and hindquarters. The coat can be one of eighty colors and patterns ranging from brown tabby to a shady silvery coloring. Many American Shorthairs will have black or brown coloring. Eye color can be green, gold, hazel, blue, copper, or odd-eyed. By 2012 this cat breed was the seventh most popular cat breed in the U.S.
Average Height:
8-10 inches
Average Weight:
6-15 pounds
Life Expectancy:
15-20 years
Temperament
The American Shorthair is relaxed and enjoys being pampered. This breed thrives with lots of cuddles and cute cat toys. This cat breed is laid back, low maintenance, and loves to hunt and sunbathe. Early socialization during kittenhood helps all cats get along with guests and other animals. This cat breed is very affectionate, and does well with indoor living.
This cat breed is easy to live with, as they are not overly vocal or quirky. Positive clicker training with rewards works best with the cat to prevent excessive scratching in the wrong places. This breed learns quickly, and is wonderful to live with. Providing your cat with scratching posts, clean litter boxes, stimulating and safe cat toys, help to ensure a well-balanced and happy cat.
american shorthair cat
Possible Health Concerns
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: This is a heart muscle disorder where the heart walls of the left ventricle thicken. This is a common primary heart disease in cats. It tends to get 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.
Grooming
The American Shorthair needs daily brushing. This cat breed sheds moderately.
Healthy cats need minimal bathing with a gentle cat shampoo. Your cat will need dental care as well. Small and frequent effective hygiene habits will make a big difference in maintaining healthy skin, healthy teeth, and good overall health. Look for environmentally safe pet products that have natural ingredients.
The American Shorthair is a laid back cat breed that enjoys being indoors, and around family. This cat does well with either apartment living or home living.
UPSET STOMACH IN DOGS AND CATS
There’s nothing more upsetting than seeing a family member unwell, and cats and dogs are no exception. However, gastrointestinal upset will happen from time to time as part of an active pet’s natural life.
THE BRITISH SHORTHAIR CAT
The British Shorthair is an ancient cat breed that originated from the U.K. It is thought that this cat breed dates as far back as the first century AD. Historians believed that the Egyptians took domesticated Egyptians cats to the U.K, resulting in the interbreeding of these cats with the European wildcat population.
Brief History
The British Shorthair was the only pedigreed cat breed at cat shows during the Victorian era. During WW1 and WW2, the British Shorthair almost vanished, but thanks to cat breeders in the U.K, this breed was kept alive. By 1967, the British Shorthair was recognized by the American Cat Association. The Cat Fancier Association recognized this breed in 1980. Today, all cat associations recognize the British Shorthair. This cat breed is renowned for its strength and hunting ability. Many are under the assumption that this cat breed is blue in color. The British Shorthair comes in various colors of which blue –grey or “British Blue” is the most popular.
Physical Features
The British Shorthair is a large cat breed with a broad chest. Their legs are strong with large paws. The tail is blunt-tipped, and of medium- length. With a round head, and large round eyes, the British Shorthair has a short muzzle and round cheeks.
The British Shorthair matures slowly, and will reach peak physical development at three years of age. This is a dimorphic cat breed, in which males are larger than the females. The coat is plush and thick with no undercoat. There are noticeable “crisp” hairlines that are raised when the British Shorthair walks or runs. Coat colors can be found in solid colors, colorpoint, tabby, shaded, and bicolor patterns.
Average Height:
12-14 inches
Average Weight:
8-14 pounds
Life Expectancy:
14-20 years
Temperament
The British Shorthair is an intelligent cat breed that adapts easily to new surroundings, and enjoys being around people, even children. The British Shorthair gets along well with other animals like rabbits, dogs, other cats, and even horses. This breed tends to be clumsy, yet is moderately active. This is a kind and sweet-natured cat breed that is devoted to family. The British Shorthair does well with being an indoor cat.
british shorthair cat
Special Needs
The British Shorthair does best as an indoor cat. This breed thrives on affection, and plenty of cat toys. This breed is proud, and enjoys positive clicker training. It is non-aggressive with other cats. 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. Daily grooming needs to be a priority with this breed.
Exercising cats is more difficult than with dogs, yet cat parents can do so by purchasing certain cats toys to promote exercise.
Possible Health Concerns
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: This is a heart muscle disorder where the heart walls of the left ventricle thicken. 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.
Gingivitis: This is when the gums become inflamed due to bacterial plaque. Gum color in cats will change from a light pink to red or purple. The gum edge wills well. Symptoms include bleeding and bad breath. This can be reversed with proper teeth cleaning. However it can worsen and result in periodontitis.
Polycystic Kidney Disease. This occurs when there are numerous cysts within the functioning part of the kidney, resulting in enlarged kidneys. Consult with your veterinarian if your cat vomits frequently, has a decreased appetite, and increased thirst or urination.
Exercise
Playtime for indoor cats is extremely important.
The British Shorthair cat breed needs daily exercise combined with plenty of mental stimulation through active play and interaction with people.
This cat breed is a moderately active cat breed that thrives on being with family members. Cat gyms, cat scratchers, and interactive cat toys within a cat friendly home environment work best for this breed.
Grooming
The British Shorthair needs daily grooming for skin and coat health. Because this breed is a shorthair cat breed, taking care of this cat breed is super easy. This cat breed has a short and smooth coat. Ears should be checked weekly for cleanliness and sensitivity.
