What Would You Say to Your Pets?

I read an article in the January/February issue of BARK magazine that had me in tears. It was called Beyond Words: the light and the dark side of a relationship without speech. The article talked about a woman who said she would give a million dollars to be able to talk to her dog — and have the dog understand. The author of the article suggests sitting down and making a list of the things you would say to your pets, starting (probably) with “I love you.” That would certainly top my list. Moose, Lally: I love you both very … Continue reading

Further Things to Take Into Consideration with Deaf and Disabled Pets

At the end of January I got an email from Izzy Forman with 360i on behalf of a company called Petside.com in regards to some deaf dog articles I’d written earlier that month. She wanted to let me know about their recently launched “Pets with Disabilities” series that had a section devoted to deaf pets. Initially, my main focus for researching deaf dogs was how to train them. That’s what my friend needed help with for her puppy. But the Petside.com articles took a few other things into consideration aside from training. Things to make living with a deaf or … Continue reading

The Pets Blog Week in Review for February 4-10

It’s time to shake things up in the Week in Review again. I’m trying a slightly varied approach to recapping the articles Aimee and I wrote for the previous week. Monday, February 4 Who were the puppy players? What kind of plays did they make and what penalties were called? And who was named MVP? All was revealed in Puppy Bowl IV Play-by-Play. In About the AKC/Eukanuba National Championship, Aimee discussed another major dog event that also took place over the weekend and detailed some tidbits you might not know about it. Tuesday, February 5 Aimee decided it was high … Continue reading

My Pets Are Not Disposable

I love my pets. I value my pets. I think of them as members of the family. When they are sick or injured, I do what I can to ease their pain and help them get better — whether that means a trip to the vet or administering medication or adjusting our daily routine. They are my best friends and constant companions. I realize that everyone doesn’t feel the same way about their pets. But it bothers me — a lot — that there are people out there who treat their pets like they are disposable. Planning a move? Too … Continue reading

The Balance

Some friends of mine have a cat who is very ill. The cat first started having health issues around her first birthday, prompting several visits to the vet and emergency vet to get things stabilized. Daily medication managed the condition for a while… but the balance is starting to shift. These friends of mine have done everything in their power to figure out what’s causing the illness and find a way to treat it. They’ve been to the vet many times, had to learn how to give subcutaneous fluids, and more. They really love this cat, and want her to … Continue reading

Adopt a Shelter Dog Month: Getting Ready

October is Adopt a Shelter Dog month! If you’ve decided that this is the right time to add a four-legged family member, congratulations. Shelter pets are awesome… and yes, I’m biased because all of my pets have been rescues. Pet adoption isn’t an easy thing these days. A lot of shelters and rescues want to check vet references, meet the entire family, and may even want to visit your home! Dogster.com (one of my favorite pet sites) polled nearly 200 shelters and came up with a great list of things to think about before you adopt a dog or cat. … Continue reading

Other Man vs. Animal Double Standards

I covered the double standard of euthanasia as it applies to man vs. animal, but there are other double standards, too. Spaying and Neutering I believe “castration” is the term used for humans. The practice has been used for centuries for everything from medical purposes to warfare strategies against opposing armies. And, yes, even on occasion for population control. But the later especially drew criticism and cries of “Foul!” when discovered. With animals though? Heck, even Aimee and I advocate the owner responsibility of spaying and neutering your pet. There are all sorts of reasons why it’s so important, but … Continue reading

Man vs. Animal Double Standards: Euthanasia

On “And I Thought Declawing Was Bad?”, Samual left the following comment: “I hate it when owners or the police punish the animal for aggression, every animal is aggressive in some way but if it’s to the point where it goes around biting people it’s because the animal has not been taught not to bite. The police need to stop just putting the animals down and punish the owner instead.” Unwittingly, Samual touched on something that’s long bothered me and more than once aggravated me to the point of tears: the double standards that exist for man and beast. I’m … Continue reading

Frugal Living Week in Review: December 3rd through December 9th

Can you believe that it is just a few more weeks until Christmas? I have to confess that I don’t even have all of my decorations up or shopping and gift making done, yet. I hope you are doing better in that department than I am! This past week, we have had plenty of holiday articles, from decorating to gift giving ideas, all crafted with tips to save you money this season. Here is the Frugal Living blog week in review for December 3rd through December 9th December 3rd Free Land In the heart of American, towns from far and … Continue reading

Do You Own A Canine Shredder?

A cousin of mine owns a pet store and always brings treats and toys for the dogs at holiday time. Michelle gifted all five dogs in the family — my two dogs, Moose and Lally; my brother’s two dogs, Kuma and Lily; and my parents’ dog Becca — with little squeaky stuffed animals. And the family watched in awe, humor, and horror as Kuma proceeded to mangle her little pink squeaky pig. The first thing to go? The snout. Then an ear, and an arm. Then the white cotton batting inside went flying! My cousin Steve decided it would be … Continue reading