As summer approaches many of us will be going on vacation and some of us will be flying.

Personally I'd rather walk than fly, these days. Years of business travel have made airports and planes dreaded locations for me. Gone are the days of first class travel, unless you have your own jet.

For pet owners there are several options. On many airlines small pets can fly in the cabin with their owners. If you have a small dog or a cat that will fit in a carrier small enough to fit under the seat in front of you, you are in luck. Southwest will even sell you one.
 
You can even take two pets of the same species in one carrier if they are small enough. Your critter will have to be able to get up and turn around to qualify and you have to make reservations in advance.

Continue Reading "Tips on Flying with Your Pet " »

We have talked about the importance of rabies vaccines, but there are other diseases carried by critters that pet owners need to be aware of.

As afraid as we may be of snakes, they are actually more afraid of us. Snakes would rather be left alone than bothered, but when they are disturbed or they feel threatened or are injured, they become increasingly aggressive and more prone to strike.

Continue Reading "A Snake in the Grass" »

With the spring showers, pet owners often bring their pets inside to avoid the mess muddy paws can leave behind. Unfortunately, having pets inside can pose several hazards for our animals, many of which pet owners are unaware of. Many household chemicals, like rodenticides, insecticides and household cleaners, are more obvious due to the danger they pose to humans as well. Because March is National Poison Prevention month, here is a list of some of the most common household hazards.

Continue Reading "National Poison Prevention Month - Household Hazards" »

Since it seems like winter is going to pass us by this year, the warmer weather is getting people outside and active a little earlier. To ensure your four-legged sidekick is ready, here are a few easy medical tips to provide your pet with a lifetime of good health.

Continue Reading "Getting Ready to Get Outside" »

When February rolls around, almost everyone starts to think about boxes of chocolate and candle lit dinners in honor of Valentine’s Day, but, did you know this month is also Responsible Pet Owners Month? So, while you are enjoying your candy or admiring your bouquet of roses, don’t forget that this holiday poses threats to your pet. Celebrate Responsible Pet Owners Month by keeping them safe and showing them some love, too.

Continue Reading "For Puppy Love and Kitten Kisses" »

The holidays create a dramatic shift in the environment and schedule of pets, which can impact their behavior, activity and safety. The new smells, objects, sounds, frequent visitors and house guests all contribute to making your pets’ surroundings unfamiliar.

This time of year is a time for friends, family and, of course, our furry companions. It is a time of relaxation and enjoying time with those we care about. There is no doubt our four-legged family members enjoy the holidays as much as we do, still, there are a few things to keep in mind as the holidays approach.

Continue Reading "Help Your Pet Avoid the "Jingle Blues"" »

The holidays are full of surprises. There is none more stressful than the impromptu vacation, especially when you have a pet in the family. Before frantically calling every kennel in town, check with the hotel (if you’re staying in one) to see if they allow pets and what the pet policy is. If taking a four-legged companion isn’t an option, there are certain considerations to make before boarding your pet.

Continue Reading "Boarding Bylines" »

When the weather forecasters predict a winter blast they always remind us of the three P’s – Pipes, Plants, and Pets.  Don’t be fooled by their fur coat, your pets are still bothered just as much as you are when the temperature drops. Here are a few guidelines to help protect your pets when the weather gets rough.

Continue Reading "Winter Weather Warnings" »

Whether you are going over the river or through the woods, there are certain precautions to take if you are traveling with a four-legged Santa’s little helper. Travel can be very stressful on your pet (and you), but planning ahead and making the appropriate arrangements for the trip can make everyone merry and bright.

Before any plans are made for your pet, make sure it is healthy enough to travel in the first place. If the pet is very old or very young and not yet trained, or if it has been sick or to the veterinarian several times recently, it is best to leave your pet in familiar surroundings rather than moving them to unfamiliar turf.

Continue Reading "Go Merry All the Way" »