Summertime Safety Tips - Summer Storms

Summertime Safety Tips - Summer Storms

Many pets suffer from thunder and storm anxiety.  This is a complex problem, and solutions will vary with each pet.  

Many pet parents have reported great success with the Thundershirt, a garment that uses pressure points to help pets stay calm throughout the storm.  

For more information on storm anxiety, click here http://sabalchaseanimalclinic.com/training/stormanxietytips.html.

Summer Safety Tips - Firing up the Grill

Summertime Safety Tips - Firing up the Grill

Everyone loves a barbecue - especially our dogs!  But grilled goodies such as hot dogs, burgers and rib bones can make our pets very sick.  

Keep pets away from open flames, lighter fluid, and food scraps.  Do not leave dogs unattended around hot grills - even when the lids are closed, the smell of food can compel them to jump onto these dangerously hot surfaces.

Summertime Safety Tips - Heatstroke

Summertime Safety Tips - Heatstroke

Summertime means summer temps, and that can spell trouble for our four legged friends.  

Make sure you monitor Fido's outdoor activities to avoid overheating and heatstroke. When playing outside with your dog, make sure he has easy access to plenty of fresh, clean water.  Provide access to shade, and allow him to go inside as needed.  

A child's wading pool can provide loads of fun, as well as a safe way for Fido to cool down!

Summertime Safety Tips - Travel Time!

Summertime Safety Tips - Travel Time!

Travel is exciting, but can also be hectic. This is especially true when traveling with a pet. There are many regulations associated with pet travel, and they vary greatly depending on your destination.  

If your summer travel plans include your pets, now is the time to research the requirements for doing so.  Since every airline, and every country has their own set of regulations for importing animals, this research can be time consuming and daunting.  International travel requires an international health certificate, which can only be obtained from a veterinarian. Health certificates can not be issued to pets with intestinal or external parasites, so make sure your pet is up to date on his heartworm, flea, and tick preventative. 

Additionally, many countries require a blood test to ensure your pet’s rabies vaccine efficacy is within the country’s pre-determined parameters.  This test has a three week turnaround time, and if the results are not within the required range, it will need to done again.  Many countries, including France, Israel, and the United Kingdom require this test.  Additionally, it is required by Hawaii, and most Caribbean nations.

Certificates are also required for interstate travel, and are required by many airlines.  When booking your trip, be sure to ask what types of paperwork and specific types of carriers are needed.  Since rules and regulations change frequently, it is wise to make these inquiries several times before your trip.  For more information on travelling with pets visit www.pettravel.com.

Preventing Dog Bites to Children (Part 12 of 12)

Preventing Dog Bites to Children (Part 12 of 12)

Every year, over 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs. Sadly, bites often happen to children.  While many dogs avoid aggressive behavior and pose low risks for biting, it is important to remember that any dog, regardless of age, breed or history, has the ability and the potential to bite.  Fortunately, dog bites can be both prevented and avoided.  We hope you have enjoyed our blogged tips to help your children stay safe around man’s best friend.

If you suspect your dog needs a behavioral adjustment, please contact us for more information.  You can find us online at www.sabalchaseanimalclinic.com and click the tab titled "Behavior". You can also "Like" us on Facebook, and ask Edel Miedes of K9 Advisors for advice on your dog's behavior.  We can be reached by phone at (305) 595-1450, or you can set up a consultation with K9 Advisors at (786) 419-3647.

July's Pet of the Month

July's Pet of the Month!

Benji is a four month old Sphinx cat.  The Sphinx is a hairless breed, known for their energy, intelligence, and affectionate nature.  Benji is no exception.  He's a sweetheart and we love him!  Congratulations Benji!  Tell all your friends - you're our Pet of the Month!

Firework Phobia Part 2

Why a Safe Space?

See how to make a Safe Space here:

 http://sabalchaseanimalclinic.blogspot.com/2013/06/fireworks.html

Dear Edel,

Thanks for all the great tips!  I have one last question: if Zohan wants to be physically close to us during fireworks or a storm, should we allow that?  What if he wants to get in our laps, cuddle with us, or hide behind us?  Is he better off in his safe place?

Dear Doc and Lynn,

Zohan is definitely better off in the safe space.  Ultimately, we want him to learn to go there on his own when he feels frightened.  This will help him learn how to self soothe, and increase his confidence, as he begins to learn that he can do something to help himself when fear sets in. When we give our dogs affection during times of anxiety, the affection can be perceived by the dog as a reward.  We want Zohan to understand that fear is neither a good behavior nor a bad behavior, just something he has to learn how to deal with.  Training him to go to a place where he feels safe is the best way to accomplish this.

Zohan sleeping in his safe space.