Thanksgiving Safety Tips for Pets !

Thanksgiving in the United States is next Thursday. Yiiippppeeeee ! Everyone loves Thanksgiving.

Friends and family around the dinner table loaded with lots of goodies. Sharing stories, catching up with what's happening and just lots of love and good cheer.

And if you are like me.. my dog is sitting right next to my feet at the dinner table waiting for some yummy goodies also.  If you have cats, I am pretty sure they are eyeing you just waiting for someone to drop something or walk away from their plates... LOL !

But, there are some items that can make pets sick during the Thanksgiving holidays, so here are some safety tips for your pets during this wonderful time.

For more information regarding safety pet tips, please go to:  www.aspca.org.

Turkey:
If you decide to give your pet some turkey, please make sure it is boneless and well-cooked.  Do not feed raw or undercooked turkey.  Just like people, they can get salmonella poisoning.

Sage:
Everyone loves using Sage when making stuffing.  This particular herb, along with many others, can cause gastrointestinal upset and central nervous depression to pets if eaten in large quantities.  Cats are especially sensitive to certain essential oils.

Bread Dough:
Do not feed your pets raw bread dough.  When this is ingested by an animal, his/her body heat causes the dough to rise in his/her stomach.  As it expands, your pet may vomit, experience severe abdominal pain and bloating. This could become a life-threatening issue, requiring surgery.

Cake:
Please try and keep your pets out of the cake batter.  If it includes raw eggs, they could get salmonella poisoning.

Too Much of Anything:
It is okay to offer your pets small amounts of cooked turkey, maybe some mashed potatoes or even a small lick of pumpkin pie, but don't overdo it.  Just like people, this could cause a very upset stomach, diarrrhea or even worse, an inflammatory condition of the pancreas called pancreatitis.  The best thing you can do for your pets is just keep them on their normal food during the holidays.

One of the things you can do to keep your pets entertained while you are having dinner and socializing with your friends and family, is to get them a Kong filled with pet treats or a Nylabone.

We, at Snaggle Foot Dog Walks and Pet Care - Round Lake, would like to wish everyone (people and pets) a very very Happy Thanksgiving!!

Virus Sickening and Even Killing Dogs !

As the Owner/President of Snaggle Foot Dog Walks and Pet Care in Round Lake, Illinois, I am always trying to be aware of what is going on with pet health.

This particular news story is frightening to me because it is happening in the midwest which is where I live. There seems to be an outbreak of a virus going around which is sickening and even killing dogs.  Below I have some information regarding this new virus called Circovirus.

Some of the things pet owners can do if they want is to avoid places like kennels, doggie day care or dog parks at least for a while and keep your eyes and ears open to how this virus is progressing.  Some alternatives to this would be inhome pet care.

However, just because some of the dogs that have contracted this virus were at a doggie day care does not mean it is prevalent in these types of environments, it is just something that they are throwing out there as it is possible that putting a lot of dogs in one type of environment is a way to contract diseases.  Just like child day care.. if one child gets sick, a lot of other children can get sick also.

The following information was reported by Steve Dale, at Chicagonow.com.

The Ohio Department of Agriculture received the first confirmation of a case of the virus in one of these dogs.  More testing of samples from the other seven dogs who have gotten sick in the state is ongoing.  It's too soon to know if they all had the same disease.

Of the eight dogs who have had the severe illness over the past few weeks, four have died. Symptoms included vasculitis (which is a destruction of the body’s blood vessels), severe vomiting, bloody diarrhea, fluid buildup around the lungs, as well as rapid heart rate and weakness. Four cases were first reported in the Cincinnati area, followed by four in Canal Fulton, near Canton.

Ohio State pathologists have sent samples taken from the ill and dead dogs to a lab at the University of California-Davis to test them for circovirus. A one-year-old beagle with circovirus died in California in the spring, and the school’s lab has the equipment to test for the virus, which had not previously been diagnosed in dogs but is common in pigs.

A study detailing the California case was released in April in the Centers for Disease Control’s online journal “Emerging Infectious Diseases.”

Dr. Melanie Butera, a veterinarian at Elm Ridge Animal Hospital in Canal Fulton, treated all four of the Akron-area dogs, who were extremely ill with very similar symptoms, she said. The two worst cases came in collapsed and weak, with high heart rates and fluid around their lungs. One of the dogs died. All were around under five years and older than puppies. Oddly, all the dogs came in ill at about the same time, though none of the owners knew one another.

Veterinarians in the Cincinnati area who treated the four dogs sent samples to Ohio State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine for testing, said public relations director Melissa Weber. Tests for salmonella and other obvious causes of the illnesses came back negative, she said, and the ODA is awaiting further test results.

The department has not received any additional calls from the Cincinnati area since that time. Health officials and veterinarians said that early intervention and proactive treatment seems to be more successful than those who waited, even if it means visiting an emergency clinic.

Still, there is no reason to panic. Even dogs experiencing the described symptoms likely have an another explanation for their illness.

We all want our pets to be healthy so the best thing a pet parent can do is watch out for any signs of illness in your dog and get them to your vet as soon as possible.  It may not be Circovirus but getting them treated for any illness is what we, as pet parents, should always do for them !

Why dogs are important during therapy and rehab !

My mom had a stroke almost 3 weeks ago and is now undergoing rehab. One of the things she keeps asking is "how is Snickers"?  That is her little mini dachshund and she misses her dearly. So because she is in a rehab facility that allows pets, we bring her little doggie when we can.

This got me thinking about how important animals are for therapy.  There are a lot of therapy pets out there but the most important pet to a loved one is their own pet.  But, if the person who is undergoing therapy does not have a pet, having a therapy pet stop by may not be a bad thing.

Here is some information on pet therapy dogs if you would like to use one during a family members' rehab.

The information I am sharing with you comes from the following website:  http://www.disabled-world.com/disability/serviceanimals/therapy-dogs.php.  Use this information if you need to find therapy dogs in your area.

The Value of Therapy Dog Visits:
Therapy Dog and Handler teams are all unique and provide people with exceptional opportunities for therapeutic contact. Only dogs that are registered with an organization are considered to be Therapy Dogs. Coyotes, Wolves, coyote hybrids, or wolf hybrids are not permitted to become Therapy Dogs becomes they cannot be verified as immune against rabies.

Therapy Dogs are not required to know any tricks, although a number of Handlers have taught their Dogs some such as how to wave or shake hands as a way to start conversations with the people they are there to serve; or to make them smile. Routines that teach Dogs obedience may also be used to start conversations, with well-trained Dogs excelling at say, standing still while a person either pets them or brushes them. Each Therapy Dog and Handler team is familiar with their means of interacting with others and provides unique and wonderful therapeutic contact.

Recognition of the value of using animals in the healing process has been around for a very long time. In a variety of types of health care facilities, visits from Therapy Dogs have demonstrated an increase in the calmness, happiness, and overall emotional well-being of people who have come in contact with them. Studies have been pursued that have demonstrated a decrease in both the stress levels and blood pressure of people during visits by Therapy Dogs. These Dogs give residents, staff members, and visitors a break from regular daily routines, loneliness, and illness.

What is the Definition of Pet Therapy Activities?
Therapy Dogs and their Handlers visit schools, nursing homes, libraries, hospitals, and other facilities where people would benefit from interactions with the Dogs. During a visit with a Therapy Dog, people are invited to interact with the Dog through petting them or stroking them. Some people might want to brush the dog, while other people may simply wish to look at it.

Smaller Dogs may be ones that people can hold in bed or on their laps, with permission. Other Therapy Dogs perform simple tricks; others might perform obedience routines for the pleasure of the person they are there to serve. Some people like to walk or use their wheelchair or adaptive equipment next to the Dog. Handlers might throw a toy for the Dog to fetch, or play games with the Dog and the person to enhance the therapeutic contact. The presence of the Dog helps people to take their minds off of problems.

Do Therapy Dogs Wear Vests?
While some Therapy Dogs do wear vests identifying them, many of these Dogs do not. Some Therapy Dogs wear vests while they are hallways; for example, but take them off in rooms while they interact with people.

Therapy Dogs are Dogs that are meant to be petted and a vest can cut down on the area of the Dog's coat that is exposed.

Therapy Dogs might also wear a Bandanna identifying them as a Dog used for therapeutic purposes, or an identification tag. They may have a flat buckle collar, or a form of simple harness. A Therapy Dog Handler might carry an identification card for the Dog.

From a health safety perspective, Therapy Dogs must have a checkup with their veterinarian each year, as well as mandatory rabies vaccinations. Each Therapy Dog needs to have received an initial series of Hepatitis, Distemper, and Parvovirus vaccinations as well. They need to have a negative fecal examination each year. All Therapy Dogs must have a negative Heartworm test every year if they are not on a preventative medication. Even if they are on a preventative Heartworm medication, the Dog must have a negative Heartworm test every-other year.

There are a number of organizations that certify Therapy Dogs. Many of these organizations are available on a State-by-State basis. Therapy Dogs are not required to be ADAA certified and provide incredibly valuable services to People with Disabilities, Seniors, Children, and Veterans.

I really wanted to share this information because of my mom and how I could see how seeing her doggie had such a positive affect on her rehab.  I hope this helps you with your family member who may need help !

Are Iguanas a good choice for a pet?

So, this weekend at Snaggle Foot Dog Walks and Pet Care, we have our very first Iguana that we are taking care of. His name is Maxwell and he is about 3 feet long.  Since we were going to be taking care of him, I decided to do a little research on them and that had me thinking about whether Iguanas are a good choice for a pet.

So I did some more research and found that yes, they can be good pets, however, there is some information every potential Iguana pet owner should know before purchasing their new Iguana.

So below is some information about Iguanas.  Hopefully this will help in your decision on whether to get one as a pet or not.

1. Iguanas can grow to 5-6 feet long.
2. Iguanas must be fed a variety of dark leafy greens, with some fruits and veggies added for variety.
3. Iguanas need 2 types of light lamps.. a heat light and a UVB light.  The UVB light helps them process calcium in their diet.  Without it, they can develop metabolic bone disease and die.  Also, the UVB light tube should be replaced every 6 months.
4. Iguanas cannot process animal protein... never feed them any type of animal protein.  They are herbivores and require dark leafy greens, vegetables and fruits.
5. Iguanas need a very large cage with height for climbing. They are tree dwelling animals and their environment should match what their "natural" environment would be.  An adult iguana requires a cage that is at least 6 feet tall, 5 feet long and about 3 feet deep.
6. Iguanas prefer not to share their areas with other iguanas.  They are solitary animals and two or more in a cage can cause dominance issues.  Also it is not a good idea to cage different specifies in the same cage.  So don't add any turtles or any other reptiles in your iguanas cage.
7. Make sure you find a veterinarian that specializes in reptiles.  They do need vet care just like any other animal.  A once per year visit to the vet is recommended.
8. You can get salmonella from an Iguana, so make sure you keep their enclosure clean and wash your hands after handling him/her.
9. Iguanas do have teeth and can hurt you or your family if you are ever bitten.
10. Iguanas do not make good pets for children.  They grow very large and it takes a lot of time and work to tame/socialize your Iguana.
11. If you do purchase an Iguana and you don't want him anymore, PLEASE do not "set him free" he/she will most likely die in the wild.

If you are thinking about getting an Iguana as a pet, PLEASE, do your research first to make sure you are ready to take care of him/her.  They are living breathing animals and they need you to take care of them so if you can't, please do not get one.

Jerky Treats making pets sick !

Well, this story is now back in the news. This is not really new news though. This horrible situation has been going on for quite some time. The jerky treats that are made in China have been killing dogs and cats in the US for a while now. It is an awful story and it is now going around again.

So, to keep any more pets from getting ill or dying, here is the information you need to know about these jerky treats!  If everyone would take the time to read this information and stop feeding their pets these treats, there will be no more deaths.. so please share this story with everyone you know!

So, here is the information directly from the FDA website.  I am sharing this on my blog so everyone will have this information. 

If you would like additional information please visit the FDA website: http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/ucm371413.htm

If you have a dog or cat that became ill after eating jerky pet treats, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) would like to hear from you or your veterinarian.

The agency has repeatedly issued alerts to consumers about reports it has received concerning jerky pet treat-related illnesses involving 3,600 dogs and 10 cats in the U.S. since 2007. Approximately 580 of those pets have died.

To date, FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM) has conducted more than 1,200 tests, visited jerky pet treat manufacturers in China and collaborated with colleagues in academia, industry, state labs and foreign governments. Yet the exact cause of the illnesses remains elusive.

To gather even more information, FDA is reaching out to licensed veterinarians and pet owners across the country. "This is one of the most elusive and mysterious outbreaks we've encountered," says CVM Director Bernadette Dunham, DVM, Ph.D. "Our beloved four-legged companions deserve our best effort, and we are giving it."

In a letter addressing U.S. licensed veterinarians, FDA lists what information is needed for labs testing treats and investigating illness and death associated with the treats. In some cases, veterinarians will be asked to provide blood, urine and tissue samples from their patients for further analysis. FDA will request written permission from pet owners and will cover the costs, including shipping, of any tests it requests.

Meanwhile, a consumer fact sheet will accompany the letter to veterinarians so they can alert consumers to the problem and remind them that treats are not essential to a balanced diet. The fact sheet also explains to consumers how they can help FDA's investigation by reporting potential jerky pet treat-related illnesses online or by calling the FDA Consumer Complaint Coordinator for their state.

What to Look Out For

Within hours of eating treats sold as jerky tenders or strips made of chicken, duck, sweet potatoes and/or dried fruit, some pets have exhibited decreased appetite, decreased activity, vomiting, diarrhea (sometimes with blood or mucus), increased water consumption, and/or increased urination.

Severe cases have involved kidney failure, gastrointestinal bleeding, and a rare kidney disorder. About 60 percent of cases involved gastrointestinal illness, and about 30 percent involved kidney and urinary systems.

The remaining cases reported various symptoms, such as collapse, convulsions or skin issues.

Most of the jerky treats implicated have been made in China. Manufacturers of pet foods are not required by U.S. law to state the country of origin for each ingredient in their products.

A number of jerky pet treat products were removed from the market in January 2013 after a New York State lab reported finding evidence of up to six drugs in certain jerky pet treats made in China. While the levels of these drugs were very low and it's unlikely that they caused the illnesses, FDA noted a decrease in reports of jerky-suspected illnesses after the products were removed from the market. FDA believes that the number of reports may have declined simply because fewer jerky treats were available.

Meanwhile, the agency urges pet owners to be cautious about providing jerky treats. If you do provide them and your pet becomes sick, stop the treats immediately, consider seeing your veterinarian, and save any remaining treats and the packaging for possible testing.

What FDA Is Doing

More than 1,200 jerky pet treat samples have been tested since 2011 for a variety of chemical and microbiological contaminants, from antibiotics to metals, pesticides and Salmonella. DNA testing has also been conducted, along with tests for nutritional composition.

In addition to continuing to test jerky pet treat samples within FDA labs, the agency is working with the Veterinary Laboratory Investigation and Response Network (Vet-LIRN), an FDA-coordinated network of government and veterinary diagnostic laboratories across the U.S. and Canada.

Inspections of the facilities in China that manufacture jerky products associated with some of the highest numbers of pet illness reports did not identify the cause of illness. However, they did identify additional paths of investigation, such as the supply chain of some ingredients in the treats. Although FDA inspectors have found no evidence identifying the cause of the spate of illnesses, they did find that one firm used falsified receiving documents for glycerin, a jerky ingredient. Chinese authorities informed FDA that they had seized products at the firm and suspended its exports.

To identify the root cause of this problem, FDA is meeting regularly with regulators in China to share findings. The agency also plans to host Chinese scientists at its veterinary research facility to increase scientific cooperation.

FDA has also reached out to U.S. pet food firms seeking further collaboration on scientific issues and data sharing, and has contracted with diagnostic labs.

"Our fervent hope as animal lovers," says Dunham, "is that we will soon find the cause of—and put a stop to—these illnesses."

So, please when shopping for treats for your cat or dog, remember this blog and make sure you check the information before you buy these treats.  

Welcome to our newest Snaggle Foot Round Lake Team Member

Just wanted to take a moment and introduce Valerie to all of you.  She will be starting with us on Monday 10/21.

Valerie is a life long dog enthusiast.  She and her husband Joe are Volunteer Puppy Raisers for Canine Companions for Independence.  Valerie began volunteering with Canine Companions in 2001 after being temporarily disabled from Lyme's Disease.  

Her website, http://www.choicesfundraising.com, features blogs and events about a variety of charities.  

Valerie is also an accomplished quilter and has made many quilts for charity.

I met Valerie a few months ago through a mutual friend and got to know her and her "service puppy in training" West.  I attended a breast cancer fund raiser with Valerie a while back and it was fun to watch her service puppy in training in action.  It takes 2 years to train a service dog so it is a wonderful gift that Valerie and her husband Joe give to people with disabilities.

Also kind of fun that we actually know some of the same people that I went to high school with.  LOL !

I am very excited to haver her on our team.

Welcome aboard Valerie !

Snaggle Foot Round Lake

What to do when you find an injured bird !

So today while I was walking my dog I saw an injured baby bird flopping around.  It is was clearly evident that it could not fly.

Personally, I picked him up and put him in a box but I guess some kids saw the same baby bird a day ago so this poor thing had been flopping and hopping around unable to fly for over a day or so.  When I finally brought him into my home, he had quietly passed away.  I am sure that poor little baby bird was completely exhausted from his ordeal the last few days.  I buried the little bird in my garden and wished him much peace in his next life.

This got me thinking about what to do when you find an injured bird so I started doing some research.  So, here is some information in case you too find an injured bird.

If you live in the Lake County Illinois area, you can contact Barnswallow in Wauconda, Illinois.
Phone: 847-487-3606.
Website: http://www.barnswallow.net

It's important to act quickly to contain a bird before it moves out of reach or something harms it.

• Place the bird in a clean unwaxed paper bag or cardboard box of appropriate size, with paper toweling flat on the bottom.

• Fold the top of the bag down 1 inch, then fold again and secure the top with a paper clip. Secure the lid of the box with tape.

• Place the bag or box in a safe, dark, quiet place, away from extreme heat or cold.

• DO NOT put food or water in the bag or box.

• DO NOT poke holes in the bag or box.

• NEVER open the bag or box to check on the bird.

• NEVER take a bird that is not in a closed bag or box into a building

• As soon as possible, transport the bird to a licensed wildlife rehabilitation center.

Other Rescue Information:

• If you cannot pick up and contain the bird, make an attempt to move it to a protected area away from further harm; such as under a bush, or away from the street or sidewalk. 

• Once the bird is secured in a bag or box, do not be tempted to check on the bird! Opening the bag or box stresses the bird, offers the possibility for escape, and puts the bird at risk for further injury. Escaped birds can become trapped inside a building or be impossible to recapture. 

• Birds can breathe adequately in a closed unwaxed paper bag or cardboard box. Air holes are not necessary and can allow some birds to escape. Never place birds in plastic bags or containers. 

• Birds are more likely to stay still and quiet in a darkened environment. Covering the bag or box helps block out light. 

• Do not try to care for an injured bird yourself. It needs specialized care. It is against federal law to keep a migratory or native bird without specialized training and permits. Contact with wildlife can involve exposure to diseases that can be transmitted from animals to humans. Take any and all precautions to safeguard your health whenever handling birds.

I personally cannot walk past an injured bird and not do anything.  If the bird does pass away while in your care, at least you gave that bird a moment's peace and quiet before they moved on.

Snaggle Foot Round Lake Pet Sitters & Dog Walkers Receives 2013 Best of Round Lake Award

Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Snaggle Foot Round Lake Pet Sitters & Dog Walkers Receives 2013 Best of Round Lake Award

Round Lake Award Program Honors the Achievement

ROUND LAKE August 29, 2013 -- Snaggle Foot Round Lake Pet Sitters & Dog Walkers has been selected for the 2013 Best of Round Lake Award in the Pet Sitter category by the Round Lake Award Program.

Each year, the Round Lake Award Program identifies companies that we believe have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category. These are local companies that enhance the positive image of small business through service to their customers and our community. These exceptional companies help make the Round Lake area a great place to live, work and play.

Various sources of information were gathered and analyzed to choose the winners in each category. The 2013 Round Lake Award Program focuses on quality, not quantity. Winners are determined based on the information gathered both internally by the Round Lake Award Program and data provided by third parties.

About Round Lake Award Program

The Round Lake Award Program is an annual awards program honoring the achievements and accomplishments of local businesses throughout the Round Lake area. Recognition is given to those companies that have shown the ability to use their best practices and implemented programs to generate competitive advantages and long-term value.

The Round Lake Award Program was established to recognize the best of local businesses in our community. Our organization works exclusively with local business owners, trade groups, professional associations and other business advertising and marketing groups. Our mission is to recognize the small business community's contributions to the U.S. economy.

Senior Dogs: What to expect as your dog ages!

I just celebrated my dog Sebastian turning 13 years old on August 20th.  He is showing signs of aging and because of this, I wanted to share what we should be thinking about as our dogs age and what to expect of an aging dog.

Just like people, dogs age and start to develop symptoms of aging.  Aging is not a "disease".  It is part of their life span just like people.

But like you, I wanted to know what things I should expect.

So here is some information regarding what happens to your doggie as he ages.

What is "old age" for dogs?
The old classic "one human year equals seven dog years" is an easy way to calculate and relate to your dog's age, but isn't the most accurate. Large breed dogs (i.e. Great Danes) are considered a senior at 6 or 7 years of age, whereas small breeds (i.e. toy poodle), aren't considered a senior until their teen years. I have seen more than one poodle in the 18 to 20 year range. There are studies to suggest that certain breeds are more long-lived than others, too.

As a general rule of thumb, a dog who is 7 years or older should be considered middle to senior aged, and a consultation with your vet is in order to determine the best health care maintenance program for your dog as s/he ages. For smaller breed dogs, your vet (in consultation with you) may elect to wait a couple of years before doing any geriatric monitoring.

What things should I expect as he ages?
Slowing down - You may notice that you dog slows down some with aging. This isn't always the case, but look for subtle changes in how s/he gets up, lays down, and uses stairs. Is there any hesitation or stiffness? Does a change in the weather (rainy, cold) make it worse?

Arthritis - is common in dogs as they age, particularly large breeds. Arthritis can occur in any joint, most commonly the legs, neck and back (spine). There are many different medications available to help ease the discomfort of arthritis -- see your vet if you notice any signs of slowing down in your dog.

Graying around the face, muzzle - most dogs commonly show a bit of gray starting at middle age (5-6 years).

Reduced hearing - Is your dog hard to wake up after sleeping or does s/he become startled easily if you approach from behind? Hearing loss or deafness may be a reason for this. There isn't a lot that can be done for age-related hearing loss, but a vet exam should be done first to rule out other medical problems, such as an infection, growth, or foreign body in the ear.  If your dog does experience hearing loss, take care to protect him/her from hazards, such as cars and kids that s/he may not hear (or see). Dogs do learn and adapt well using hand signals to come, stay, sit, and so on. It is a good idea to "cross train" your dog early in life to recognize basic hand signals.

Cloudy or "bluish" eyes - As they age, dog's eyes often show a bluish transparent "haze" in the pupil area. This is a normal effect of aging, and the medical term for this is lenticular sclerosis. Vision does not appear to be affected. This is NOT the same as cataracts.  Cataracts are white and opaque.

Muscle atrophy - Mild loss of muscle mass, especially the hind legs, may be seen with old age. Be sure to have your vet check this out if any muscle loss is noted.

How can I keep my pet more comfortable in his senior years?
Regular checkups and communication with your vet will ensure that you are doing all that you can medically to help your pet enjoy the senior years. To help your pet at home, here are some pointers:

• Provide a comfortable clean bed - there are many "orthopedic" beds available now at pet supply stores to ensure comfortable rest.  NOTE:  I just recently bought two of these for Sebastian, one for upstairs and one for downstairs.
• Provide fresh water daily (note changes in water consumption) and a healthy, age-appropriate diet.
• Don't expect too much from your senior dog - s/he may want to run and play Frisbee like the good 'ol times, but go slow -- heat, arthritis, age-related muscle atrophy, and other age-related effects can take their toll.
• Ease distractions - senior pets can be easily startled by or become fearful of: kids, loud noises, and general commotion as they age. Conditions such as arthritis can make the dog fearful of getting hurt (or the potential to get hurt) with sudden movements of kids or being stepped on.

If you see these changes happening in your aging dog, it's okay, it is all part of their lifespan.  Keep them comfortable and keep loving them.  Remember, you made a promise the day you got them that you would love them for the rest of their lives !

New Health Risk for Dogs that have been "Skunked": Heinz-body Anemia

I am one of the lucky pet owners... my dog has never been sprayed by a skunk. But, If you’ve smelled a skunk once, or if your dog has ever been "skunked" it’s hard to forget the odor.  In fact, one of my pet sitter's dogs recently got skunked and she said it is awful.

After my sitter's dog got skunked I decided to read up on it.. what it is, what it can do to you and your pet, and the science behind it (I know.. I am a complete nerd)... LOL !  

So here is the information I now know about skunks and the new "health risk" recently revealed.

The classic rotten-egg smell is caused by a sulfur compound that is released when an “enemy” comes a little too close for comfort. The skunk’s main line of defense is the two anal glands on either side of its anus. When threatened, the skunk will first hiss and stomp. If the threat continues, the skunk will release its anal glands. Amazingly, skunks can spray up to 15 feet, and with great accuracy.

There are six species of skunks in the northern United States, all of which are easily identified by their black bodies and white stripes — and the nasty smell. Ironically, they have an excellent sense of smell (and hearing), but they cannot see well. They are most active at twilight and nighttime.

What Happens When a Dog Is Skunked?
Usually, a skunked dog immediately starts drooling, squinting, face-rubbing and rolling. The spray can cause conjunctivitis, temporary blindness and vomiting.

Rare Reports of Damage to Red Blood Cells

Shedding some new light on the old skunk story, a recent article I just read explains that in rare cases, a skunked dog can get severe anemia and even die from it!

This is a special form of anemia (a low red blood cell count) called Heinz-body anemia. The skunk spray damages the hemoglobin in the red blood cells, the same way acetaminophen (Tylenol), onions and garlic do. This condition only (and rarely) happens in dogs, but interestingly it seems to mostly occur in Japanese dog breeds (e.g., Shiba Inu, Akita and Tosa).

The treatment is called symptomatic and supportive, which means that veterinarians treat the symptoms as they appear.The article I read mentions two dogs with anemia who were reported to the ASPCA toxicology department: a 2-year-old Pharaoh hound and a 5-year-old boxer. The boxer ended up dying from severe anemia. So again, this condition does not happen only in Japanese breeds. Cats are susceptible to this reaction in theory, but no case has been reported.

If the spray got into a pet’s eyes, clean the eyes with plain water and treat vomiting as needed. Don’t neglect the possible other reactions: your pet should be monitored over 72 hours with blood work (a complete blood count, or CBC, to check the red blood cells and a “chemistry”), especially for heavy exposures or multiple sprays. If signs of anemia occur, then your pet will need IV fluids and possibly a blood transfusion.

How to Get Rid of Skunk Smell

One common question that pet owners ask their family vet is, “How can I get rid of skunk smell?” Well, here is a recipe for you, called the Krebaum skunk odor removal formula.*

Ingredients:

• 1 quart 3 percent hydrogen peroxide
• ¼ cup baking soda
• 1-2 tsp liquid dishwashing detergent
• Large dogs: add 1 quart lukewarm water

What to do:

• Mix the above ingredients fresh.
• Apply the formula to your pet, working deeply into the fur. Bathe your pet outdoors!
• Let it set for 5 minutes, then rinse with lots of water. Repeat as necessary.
• Note: Your pet’s fur — as well as clothing, towels and carpeting — may be bleached by the mixture.
• Warning: Do not store the mixture in a closed container! Oxygen needs to escape as it is released by the peroxide.

Personally, I hope you never get "skunked", but if you do, please keep an eye on your pet and if there are any issues, get him or her to your vet immediately.

Is it separation anxiety? What can I do about it?

When my dog was much younger, he hated being left alone.  I knew he had separation anxiety but I wasn't sure and I didn't know what to do about it.

He is much older now and does not suffer from this anymore, but I know there are a lot of you out there that may be experiencing this and would like to know what it is and what can you do about it.

This blog is offer some assistance in helping with separation anxiety with your dog.  So let's get started.

Dogs with separation anxiety exhibit distress and behavior problems when they're left alone. The most common behaviors include:

• Digging and scratching at doors or windows in an attempt to reunite with their owners
• Destructive chewing
• Howling, barking, and whining
• Urination and defecation (even with otherwise housetrained dogs)

Is it separation anxiety?
If most, or all, of the following statements are true about your dog, he may have a separation anxiety problem:

• The behavior occurs primarily when he's left alone and typically begins soon after you leave.
• He follows you from room to room whenever you're home.
• He displays effusive, frantic greeting behaviors.
• The behavior occurs whether he's left alone for short or long periods.
• He reacts with excitement, depression, or anxiety to your preparations to leave the house. 

What causes separation anxiety
It's not fully understood why some dogs suffer from separation anxiety and others don't. But it's important to realize that the destruction and house soiling that often occur with separation anxiety are part of a panic response. Your dog isn't trying to punish you for leaving him alone.  Following are some common scenarios that can trigger separation anxiety:

• A dog accustomed to constant human companionship is left alone for the first time.
• A dog suffers a traumatic event (from his viewpoint), such as time at a shelter or boarding kennel.
• There's a change in the family's routine or structure or the loss of a family member or other pet.

How to treat minor separation anxiety

• Don't make a big deal out of arrivals and departures. For example, when you arrive home, ignore your dog for the first few minutes then calmly pet him.
• Leave your dog with an article of clothing that smells like you, such as an old T-shirt that you've slept in recently.
• Establish a safety cue—a word or action that you use every time you leave that tells your dog you'll be back.
• Consider using an over-the-counter calming product that may reduce fearfulness in dogs.

How to handle a more severe problem
Use the techniques outlined above along with desensitization training. Teach your dog the sit-stay and down-stay commands using positive reinforcement. This training will help him learn that he can remain calmly and happily in one place while you go to another room.

Create a "safe place" to limit your dog's ability to be destructive. A safe place should:

• Confine loosely rather than strictly (a room with a window and distractions rather than total isolation)
• Contain busy toys for distraction
• Have dirty laundry to lend a calming olfactory cue or other safety cues.

What to do in the meantime
It can take time for your dog to unlearn his panic response to your departures. To help you and your dog cope in the short term, consider the following interim solutions:

• Hire a pet sitter/dog walker to come in during the day to give him/her some exercise by walking and playing with your dog.
• Ask your veterinarian about drug therapy. A good anti-anxiety drug shouldn't sedate your dog but simply reduce his overall anxiety.
• Take your dog to a doggie day care facility when you have to be away.
• Take your dog to work with you, if possible.

What won't help

• Punishment. Punishment isn't effective for treating separation anxiety and can make the situation worse. The destruction and house soiling that often occur with separation anxiety aren't your dog's revenge for being left alone: they're part of a panic response.
• Another dog. Getting your dog a companion usually doesn't help an anxious dog because his anxiety is the result of his separation from you, not just the result of being alone.
• Crating. Your dog will still engage in anxiety responses inside a crate, and he may urinate, defecate, howl, or even injure himself in an attempt to escape. Instead, create other kinds of "safe places" as described above.
• Radio/TV noise. Leaving the radio or television on won't help (unless the radio or TV is used as a safety cue).
• Obedience training. While formal training is always a good idea, separation anxiety isn't the result of disobedience or lack of training; therefore, it won't help this particular issue.

If you still need help, consult a professional animal behavior specialist for assistance in resolving your dog's issues. 

Dog Breed Showcase: The beautiful Australian Shepherd

So each month I am going to start showcasing a particular breed of dog.  I get a lot of questions from people who are looking to get a dog for their family and are not sure what to get.  My advice.. do LOTS of research first. 

Each breed is different and requires different needs.

Some are couch potatoes and do great in apartments and some require extensive training and exercise... so make sure BEFORE you get the dog you understand what kind of dog he or she is and what they were bred to do.  This way, you won't be surprised when you get home.

Too many pets are abandoned or given to shelters because the owner did not do their research ahead of time and then decided the pet is not right for their family.  This is very sad for the animal.

The video below will give you some insight into this particular breed, so watch and see if this dog is right for your family.

Our first showcase dog for August 2013 is.... (drum roll)... the Australian Shepherd. Yay!!

Please make your decision to get a dog a wise decision.  Do your research, understand why they were bred, what their requirements are, and, if they are right for your family.

If you do this research ahead of time, you and your dog will have a great life together !

My Stupeflix Video - Welcome to Snaggle Foot Dog Walks and Pet Care, Round Lake, Illinois

Does you dog have allergies? What can you do?

Well, it is allergy season again.. high summer, things are blooming, pollinating, flying around, everyone is sneezing and coughing.. even your dog?

Yes, dogs can get allergies. In fact, it is getting more and more common for pets to have allergies.  There could be a thousand reasons for this but for the one suffering, no one really cares what the reason is, they just need some help in relieving the symptoms.

I am lucky, my dog has never had allergies, but I have quite a few clients dogs that do have them and we do administer medications for those ailments.

Just like people, dogs can show allergic symptoms when their immune systems begin to recognize certain everyday substances—or allergens— as dangerous. Even though these allergens are common in most environments and harmless to most animals, a dog with allergies will have an extreme reaction to them. Allergens can be problematic when inhaled, ingested or contact a dog’s skin. As his body tries to rid itself of these substances, a variety of skin, digestive and respiratory symptoms may appear.

Any dog can develop allergies at any time during his life, but allergic reactions seem to be especially common in terriers, setters, retrievers, and flat-faced breeds such as pugs, bulldogs and Boston terriers.

What Are the General Symptoms of Allergies in Dogs?

• Itchy, red, moist or scabbed skin
• Increased scratching
• Itchy, runny eyes
• Itchy back or base of tail (most commonly flea allergy)
• Itchy ears and ear infections
• Sneezing
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Snoring caused by an inflamed throat
• Paw chewing/swollen paws
• Constant licking

Allergic dogs may also suffer from secondary bacterial or yeast skin infections, which may cause hair loss, scabs or crusts on the skin.

What Substances Can Dogs Be Allergic To?

• Tree, grass and weed pollens
• Mold spores
• Dust and house dust mites
• Dander
• Feathers
• Cigarette smoke
• Food ingredients (e.g. beef, chicken, pork, corn, wheat or soy)
• Prescription drugs
• Fleas and flea-control products (The bite of a single flea can trigger intense itchiness for two to three weeks!)
• Perfumes
• Cleaning products
• Fabrics
• Insecticidal shampoo
• Rubber and plastic materials

Can Dogs Be Allergic to Food?
Yes, but it often takes some detective work to find out what substance is causing the allergic reaction. Dogs with a food allergy will commonly have itchy skin, breathing difficulties or gastrointestinal problems like diarrhea and vomiting, and an elimination diet will most probably be used to determine what food he is allergic to. If your dog is specifically allergic to chicken, for example, you should avoid feeding him any products containing chicken protein or fat.

Please note that food allergies may show up in dogs at any age.

What Should I Do If I Think My Dog Has Allergies?
Visit your veterinarian. After taking a complete history and conducting a physical examination, he or she may be able to determine the source of your dog’s allergic reaction. If not, your vet will most probably recommend skin or blood tests, or a special elimination diet, to find out what's causing the allergic reaction.

How Can Dog Allergies Be Treated?
The best way to treat allergies is to remove the offending allergens from the environment.

Prevention is the best treatment for allergies caused by fleas. Start a flea control program for all of your pets before the season starts. Remember, outdoor pets can carry fleas inside to indoor pets. See your veterinarian for advice about the best flea control products for your dog and the environment.

If dust is the problem, clean your pet's bedding once a week and vacuum at least twice weekly—this includes rugs, curtains and any other materials that gather dust.

Weekly bathing may help relieve itching and remove environmental allergens and pollens from your dog’s skin. Discuss with your vet what prescription shampoos are best, as frequent bathing with the wrong product can dry out skin.

If you suspect your dog has a food allergy, they will need to be put on an exclusive prescription or hydrolyzed protein diet. Once the allergy is determined, your vet will recommend specific foods or a home-cooked diet.

Are There Allergy Medications for Dogs?

Since certain substances cannot be removed from the environment, your vet may recommend medications to control the allergic reaction.

So yes dogs can get allergies, but don't fret, there are ways to help alleviate those awful symptoms.  If you are concerned about your dog possibly having allergies, get them to your vet right away.  The sooner the better.. for all of you !

Pet food and treat recalls - keep your pets safe!

Here we go again... another newscast about the most recent food and pet treat recalls.  We are hearing more and more of these recalls due to the number of ingredients that are coming from overseas. 

This is why I am a distributor of Flint River Ranch All Natural Pet Food.  They are made right here in the USA and all ingredients are safe and natural.  If you are interested in checking them out, please go to http://www.frrco.com/.

Part of your responsibility as a pet parent is to help protect your pet from potentially harmful products. While it is nearly impossible to ensure that your pet will never come in contact with recalled pet food or treats, you can reduce your pet's risk.

I used to work for medical device companies as a Quality Administrator so I frequently went into the FDA database to get alerts on products that were recalled.  You can do the same thing for pet food and treats.

The FDA keeps an extensive list of all pet food recalls.  You can also sign up to get these alerts emailed directly to you. If you would like to keep current on these recalls and sign up for these alerts, please go to:  http://www.fda.gov/animalveterinary/safetyhealth/recallswithdrawals/default.html

Below are tips to protect your pets from contaminated food and treats and below that is a current list of products recalled in 2013... so far.

Tips for protecting your pets from contaminated food and treats

1. Check the list of recalled pet foods and treats regularly for information about items that have been recalled. 

2. If your pet's food or treats are recalled, immediately stop feeding the product to your pet. Recalled products may be returned to the store where they were purchased for a full refund or thrown away in a secure area not accessible to animals. If you have questions about recalled food or treats or require additional information contact the company that manufactures the product.

3. If your pet may have consumed a recalled product, consult your veterinarian, even if your pet does not appear to have any symptoms.

4. If your pet has become ill or died because of a recalled food or treat, please report it to The FDA Consumer Complaint Coordinator in your state.

FDA advisories on recalled pet food and treats
June 18, 2013 : Natura Pet Issues Voluntary Recall of Specialized Dry Pet Foods Due to Possible Health Risk
June 12, 2013: Hartz Mountain Corporation Is Voluntarily Recalling One Specific Lot of 1.2 oz. Size of Wardley Betta Fish Food Due to Possible Health Risk
April 22, 2013: Natura Pet Expands Voluntary Recall of Dry Pet Foods Due to Possible Health Risk
April 19, 2013: Merit Bird Company, LLS Recalls Vitae Because of Possible Health Risk
April 5, 2013: Bravo! Issues a Voluntary Recall for Three Raw Frozen Food Diet for Dogs and Cats Because of Possible Salmonella Health Risk
April 2, 2013: Natura Pet Expands Voluntary Recall of Dry Pet Foods Due to Possible Health Risk
March 22, 2013: Jones Natural Chews Co Recalls Woofers Dog Treats Because Of Possible Salmonella Health Risk
March 19, 2013: Natura Pet Issues Voluntary Recall of Specialized Dry Pet Foods Due to Possible Health Risk
March 14, 2013: Bravo! Recalls 2 lb Tubes of Chicken Blend-Raw Frozen Food Diet for Dogs and Cats (One Lot Code) Because of Possible Salmonella Health Risk
March 11, 2013: Premium Edge, Diamond Naturals and 4health Dry Cat Food Formulas Voluntarily Recalled Due to Possibility of Low Levels of Thiamine (Vitamin B1)
March 11, 2013: Diggin' Your Dog Recalls Strippin' Chicks Pet Treats Distributed in Colorado and Nevada Due to Possible Salmonella Hazard
March 8, 2013: Steve’s Real Food Recalls Turducken Canine Recipe Patties Because of Posssible Health Risk
February 28, 2013: United Pet Group Inc., Voluntarily Withdraws "Ultra Blend Gourmet Food for Parakeets," "ēCotrition Grains & Greens Nutritional Supplement for Parakeets," "ēCotrition Grains & Greens Nutritional Supplement for Canaries and Finches," and "ēCotrition Grains & Greens Nutritional Supplement for Cockatiels" Due to Possible Salmonella Contamination
February 22, 2013: The Honest Kitchen® Voluntarily Recalls Limited Lots Of Verve®, Zeal®And Thrive® Products Due To Possible Health Risk
February 22, 2013: Kasel Associates Industries Recalling Certain Pet Treats Due to Salmonella Contamination Boots and Barkley, Colorado Naturals, Nature’s Deli among brands affecteds
February 22, 2013: Kaytee Recalls Bird Treats and Greens Due to Possible Salmonella Contamination from Parsley Flakes
February 21, 2013: Nutri-Vet, LLC Recalls Nutri-Vet and Nutripet Chicken Jerky Products Because Of Possible Salmonella Health Risk
February 19, 2013: Nature's Variety Issues Voluntarily Recall of One Batch of Instinct® Raw Organic Chicken Formula for Dogs & Cats Due to Possible Health Risk
January 27, 2013: The Hartz Mountain Corporation is voluntarily withdrawing its Hartz ® Chicken Chews ™ and Hartz ® Oinkies® Pig Skin Twists wrapped with Chicken for dogs
January 15, 2013: Milo’s Kitchen® Voluntarily Recalls Chicken Jerky and Chicken Grillers Home-style Dog Treats
January 9, 2013: FDA CVM Update on Jerky Treats

Please check your pets food and treats before buying. As pet parents it is our responsibility to make sure we keep our pets safe !

Dining with your dog in Chicago !

It's that great time of year when everyone is looking to eat "alfresco"... Sitting outside sipping a margarita and dining at some of Chicago's finest establishments.

Now there is a dining guide for all you living in the Chicago area that will allow you to bring your dogs.

How cool is that?

There are a few rules though so below I have listed the rules and the list of dining establishments.

Things to Bring

• ID tags on your dog (including Chicago license if applicable)

• Pick-up bags

• Your dog first aid kit

• Water and a bowl

What to Expect

Dining with your dog can be a fun experience for both of you, provided your dog is ready for the outdoor restaurant environment. Dogs should be well behaved and trained before accompanying you to dinner. It is helpful if you dog knows a "down - stay" or "sit - stay" as it can be very difficult to eat while holding your dog's leash if they are wandering around, not to mention disturbing to other restaurant patrons. Of course there will be food around and most likely waiters carrying trays so your dog should be well-behaved around food-- no begging! Dogs are not allowed inside any place which serves food, so if this is a "self-service" restaurant you will need to have someone who can go inside and order.

Where to Go

Chicago passed a new "Dog Friendly Dining" ordinance effective in 2008. To allow dogs in their outdoor dining areas, restaurants must purchase a Supplement License for Dog Friendly Areas. There are rules and regulations which the restaurants must follow in order to allow dogs and dogs are not allowed to be petted or handled by staff members or fed while at the restaurant. Dogs must have a city license and proof of vaccinations.

We recommend you call ahead before bringing your dog to any restaurant as some restaurants may not allow dogs if they are very busy or on certain nights or times, or may not have their outdoor tables set up depending on the weather.

Dog Friendly Restaurants (alphabetical)

312 Chicago 136 N Lasalle St Chicago, IL 60602 (312) 696-2420

Adobo Grill 1610 N Wells St Chicago, IL 60614 (312) 266-7999

Adobo Grill 2005 W Division St Chicago, IL 60622 (773) 252-9990

Bad Dog Tavern 4535 N Lincoln Ave Chicago, IL 60625 (773) 334-4040

Blackies 755 S Clark St Chicago, IL 60605 (312) 786-1161

Boundary 1932 W Division St Chicago, IL 60622 (773) 278-1919

Brasserie JO 59 West Hubbard Chicago, IL 60610 (312) 595-0800

Bull and Bear 431 N. Wells Chicago, IL 60654 (312) 527-5973

Charmers 1500 W Jarvis Ave Chicago, IL 60626 (773) 743-2233

Chicago Joe's 2256 W Irving Park Rd Chicago, IL 60618 (773) 478-7000

Daily Bar & Grill 4560 N Lincoln Ave Chicago, IL 60625 (773) 561-6198

Dawghaus Cafe 6219 N Sheridan Rd Chicago, IL 60660 (773) 761-3294

Dunlay's On Clark 2600 N Clark St Chicago, IL 60614 (773) 883-6000

Eve 840 N Wabash Ave Chicago, IL 60611 (312) 266-3383

Feast Restaurant & Bar 25 E Delaware Pl Chicago, IL 60611 (312) 337-4001

Finly Mahony's 3701 N Broadway St Chicago, IL 60613 (773) 549-0097

Four Farthings Tavern 2060 N Cleveland Ave Chicago, IL 60614 (773) 935-2060

Four Moon Tavern 1847 W Roscoe St Chicago, IL 60657 (773) 929-6666

Frasca Pizzeria & Wine Bar 3358 N Paulina St Chicago, IL 60657 (773) 248-5222

Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse 1028 N Rush St Chicago, IL 60611 (312) 266-8999

Glunz Bavarian Haus 4128 N Lincoln Ave Chicago, IL 60618 (773) 472-4287

Hub 51 51 W Hubbard St Chicago, IL 60654 (312) 828-0051

Hugo's Frog Bar & Fish House 1024 N Rush St Chicago, IL 60611 (312) 640-0999

Innjoy 2051 W Division St Chicago, IL 60622 (312) 394-2066

Jefferson Tap 325 N Jefferson St Loop/West Loop Chicago, IL 60661 (312) 648-0100

Joe's Sports Bar 940 W Weed St Chicago, IL 60642 (312) 337-3486

John's Place 1202 W Webster Ave Chicago, IL 60614 (773) 525-6670

Jury's 4337 N Lincoln Ave Chicago, IL 60618 (773) 935-2255

LuxBar 18 E Bellevue Pl Chicago, IL 60611 (312) 642-3400

Moonshine 1824 W Division St Chicago, IL 60622 (773) 862-8686

Natalino's 1523 W Chicago Ave Chicago, IL 60642 (312) 997-3700

O'Brien's Restaurant 1528 N Wells St Chicago, IL 60610 (312) 787-3131

O'Briens Riverwalk Cafe 45 E Riverwalk S Chicago, IL 60610 (312) 346-3131

PJ Clarkes 1204 N State Pkwy Chicago, IL 60610 (312) 664-1650

Riverview Tavern 1958 W Roscoe St Chicago, IL 60657 (773) 248-9523

Rl Restaurant Ralph Lauren 115 E Chicago Ave Chicago, IL 60611 (312) 475-1100

Rockit Bar & Grill-Wrigleyville 3700 N Clark St Chicago, IL 60613 (773) 645-4400

Sage 2465 N Clark St Chicago, IL 60614 (773) 348-7243

Scoozi 410 W Huron St Chicago, IL 60654 (312) 943-5900

Small Bar 2049 W Division St Chicago, IL 60622 (773) 772-2727

Smoke Daddy Restaurant 1804 W Division St Chicago, IL 60622 (773) 772-6656

Southport Lanes & Billiards 3325 N Southport Ave Chicago, IL 60657 (773) 472-6600

The Fifty/50 2047 W. Division St. Chicago, IL 60622 (773) 489-5050

Via Carducci la Sorella 1928 W Division St Chicago, IL 60622

Vong Thai Kitchen 6 W Hubbard St Chicago, IL 60654 (312) 644-8664

So next time you plan on doing out to dinner and sitting outside, it is always more fun when you can bring your best friend.

For more information, please check out:  http://www.chicagocanine.com/dining.html

How to choose the right pet for your children

When I grew up my parents always had Dachshunds.  When I grew up and got to choose my own pet I went for the bigger dogs as I am pretty active, I have neighbors with kids and I wanted a dog that had a great temperament.  

When choosing the right pet for your child a lot of thought and research should go into your choice.  A lot of people go visit the pet store, buy a puppy or a bunny or a hampter and realize it is not the right kind of pet for the family.  Unfortunately this usually doesn't end well for the new pet.

As the parent it is important that you make this decision, not the child.  If it were up to your child, they would probably opt for a polar bear... LOL !

I have broken down the types of pets that would be a good fit for your child. But remember, handing over the responsibilities of owning a pet to a young child will not work.  This is a family decision and the family should all help in taking care of your new pet.

Dog

• We don't call them our best friends for nothing. Loyal and loving, dogs are social animals who thrive on being upstanding members of their families. 

• If there are young kids in the house, a puppy may not be your your best bet. Instead, try a medium-sized dog over five months of age. 

• Don’t forget to draw up a schedule of who in the family will do what—walking, playing, feeding and grooming.

Cat

• Graceful, athletic, playful, sensitive and affectionate, felines are the most popular pet in the United States today and stand high on the cuddle scale. 

• Cats are not like dogs, and can be very independent. 

• If you've done your research and decided on a cat of an appropriate age for your household, visit your shelter and be sure to have your new friend spayed or neutered!

Budgie

• Playful, cheery and chirpy, this little charmer is the most popular avian companion. He's gentle and funny, can be readily tamed to sit on your shoulder, and makes a perfect first bird for the young members of the family. 

• Birds can be messy….really messy. You'll need to clean the cage and surrounding area daily. Also, keep in mind that not all budgies talk, even though they have the capability. 

• A budgie is a great choice if you've got your heart set on an avian mimic but don't have the time, money or space for a larger member of the parrot family.

Fish

• Got allergies, limited space and/or lean towards the exotic? Although fish are relatively low maintenance, there's a definite science to keeping them and their environment healthy—hence their appeal to big-brained types who get a kick out of seeing the nitrogen cycle at work. 

• If you’re looking for a pet who will follow you around, lick your face and play fetch, a finned friend is probably not for you. 

• Get all of your equipment beforehand, do your research and know what species are safe to keep together. If you've done your homework, you probably know that common goldfish can live for more than 10 years if properly cared for!

Guinea Pig

• They're not pigs and they're not from New Guinea, but these cuddle bugs are the most docile of all companion rodents. Under adult supervision, guinea pigs are excellent first pets for children. 

• These little critters aren't the kind of pets you can passively watch through the bars of the cage. They need time out to exercise every day. 

• Fun for the whole family, social GPs are great in pairs, just be sure you have adequate housing for them. And do your reading—these guys have special dietary needs!

Hamster

• Off the cuteness charts, hamsters are busy little rodents who are very popular with kids and great pets for apartment dwellers. 

• Did you know that hamsters sleep during the day and are active at night? 

• You’re ready for a hamster if you're a night owl and/or won't be bothered by your pet eating, digging and running on his wheel in the wee hours. P.S. Syrian hamsters are solitary and must be kept alone. Dwarf hamsters are more social and can be housed together, so make sure you know what species you’re bringing home. 

Rabbit 

• They can be trained to use the litter box, they'll come when called, and their all-time favorite activities are to dig and chew. Who knew? The sometimes sweet, sometimes sassy rabbit can be a great pet for the right family. 

• Rabbits can’t live outdoors! Outside, rabbits can die of fright and are susceptible to diseases spread by ticks and other parasites. 

• If you've done the research and understand exactly what rabbits need—big-time digging and chewing—then you’re ready for a cotton-tailed friend. Be sure to have your new bun spayed or neutered.

All of these animals above can be great pets for children.  Take the time to do your research and when you get them home, enjoy them as a family.