It's National Mutt Day!

Why We Love Mutts

July 31st is National Mutt Day! Here are just a few of the reasons why we love mutts.

They’re one of a kind

With all the genetic mixing that goes into the creation of a mutt, even two puppies from the same litter can look completely different. Chances are, you’ll never meet another dog that looks exactly like yours.

They tend to have fewer congenital health problems

While this has never been scientifically proven, or even studied, most vets agree that mixed-breed dogs have fewer breed specific problems than their purebred counterparts. Problems that we do see in mutts, tend to be less pronounced and easier to treat. For example, a German Shepherd mix with hip dysplasia is may respond beautifully to supplements and a change in exercise routines. A purebreed, however, is more likely to need expensive orthopedic surgery. Pet insurance companies would seem to agree, as mutts are cheaper to insure. Which leads to the next point.

They’re a heck of a bargain

Mutts are often adopted from shelters for a modest adoption fee. Additionally, they are usually spayed/neutered, microchipped, dewormed, heartworm tested and vaccinated before they leave the shelter. This saves hundreds of dollars in veterinary “start-up costs”. And did we mention they’re cheaper to insure?!

They’re great conversation starters

Whether it’s a trip to the dog park or a dog-friendly social event, someone is bound to ask “What kind of dog is that?” Instant ice-breaker!

You probably saved a life

Mixed breed dogs rarely make it out of shelters alive. And mutts seem to know it. Your reward? Unconditional loyalty and love, the likes of which you’d never imagined.

What do you love about your mutt? And don’t be shy! Send us a picture! We’d love to meet your mutt! 
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It's National Pet Fire Safety Day!

It’s National Pet Fire Safety Day!

According to the National Fire Protection Association,  roughly 1,000 house fires per year are accidentally started by pets.  While this number seems high, it’s a bit easier to fathom when you factor in all the ways in which our pets get into trouble.  Since today is National Pet Fire Safety Day, let’s talk about some ways to keep the whole family safe.

Switch to Flameless Candles

Many house fires are started when candles are knocked over by agile cats, or swept to the floor by dog’s wagging tail. It’s so easy to forget about a burning candle. Give yourself one less thing to worry about and switch to flameless varieties.

Cover Stove Knobs

A surprisingly high number of house fires are caused by “counter surfing” pets who accidentally turn on stove tops! Since toddlers and small children are guilty of this as well, there are many products on the market that turning on the stove impossible for both human kids and fur-kids.

Be Mindful of Electrical Cords

Dogs, puppies, kittens, cats, house rabbits - they all LOVE chewing and playing with electrical cords. Keep them out of your pet’s reach and consider securing pets in crates, or separate rooms when you are not at home.

Keep Crated Pets Near a Window or Door

This will make it easier for firefighters to reach them, which increases their chances of being rescued from a fire. Keep leashes nearby as well, as this can save precious time in a rescue situation.

Alert Firefighters to Your Pet’s Presence

If you don’t think firefighters are willing to risk their lives to save an animal, think again! That being said, make it a bit easier for them. If you’re calling in a fire, let them know how many pets you have and where they are located. Better yet, place “Save My Pet” decals on your windows. While we hope this type of advice is never needed, it’s always better to safe - and prepared - than sorry.

Our July Pet of the Month is Cleo!

Meet Cleo, our July Pet of the Month!

This July, our Pet of the Month is Cleo!

At age 12, Cleo has seen quite a few vet visits. But this sassy senior is always happy to see her fan club here at Sabal Chase - with or without her awesome red dancing shoes! Congratulations Cleo, and share with all your friends. You’re our Pet of the Month!

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Stormy Weather

Here in South Florida, June tends to be the rainiest month of the year. And while the wet stuff is a welcome respite from our bone dry winters, the thunder can be terrifying for our pets.  While both cats and dogs can suffer from storm anxiety, cats generally have much better coping skills. Be sure to provide your cat with plenty of places to hide, including closets and underneath beds. Open-mouthed breathing or inappropriate urination may require a trip to vet for some anti-anxiety medication. Don’t try to cuddle or hug a frightened cat unless she initiates. More than likely, she will want to hide by herself, and it is best to let her do that.

It is also wise to give dogs a safe to hide, but unlike their feline counterparts, they may need to be taught to go there. A dog’s “safe space” should be small and cozy, with as much insulation against sound as possible. The corner of a closet can be fitted with a crate that will be further insulated by hanging clothes. Keep chew toys and favorite things inside the crate to encourage your dog to go there, and praise him lavishly when he does so. If you are home when a storm hits, try  running through a routine of any obedience or trick commands your dog may know. This will help boost his confidence, and help him to focus on you, not the storm. For more information on storm anxiety, check out this page on our website! http://www.sabalchaseanimalclinic.com/training/stormanxietytips.html

Hurricane Prep

Remember those balmy, breezy, 75 degree days we enjoyed while New England wa buried in snow? Well, South Floridians, it’s payback time! June marks the beginning of hurricane season, the time of the year when friends to the north DON’T want to be here!

Many people know that South Florida has hurricane shelters that allow you to bring your pets. What many people do not know, however, is that only some of our shelters are pet-friendly, and your pets must be registered ahead of time. For information on pre-registration, click here. http://www.miamidade.gov/animals/library/pet_shelter_booklet.pdf. Since spaces are limited, do this now if you would like to use this service.

When preparing your hurricane supply list, don’t forget about your pets. Make sure you have enough non-perishable food and bottled water for your pets, and double check the contents of their first aid kit. Be sure to refill their supplements and prescription medications. Decide where your pet will ride out a storm and have plenty of toys to keep him occupied. In Miami, hurricane preparation is a fact of life. It’s a small price to pay for living in the vibrant, sunny, diverse metropolis we are privileged enough to call home.

Meet Humo, Our June Pet of the Month!

Meet Humo, our June Pet of the Month!

June is Adopt A Cat Month! And three-year-old Humo hit the jackpot with his adoptive family!

When it comes to showing signs of illness, cats can be masters of disguise. But when Humo's mom noticed he seemed down and out, she brought him right in for a checkup. As it turned out, Humo was suffering from a urinary tract condition which could have led to a complicated and costly surgery. Thanks to his mom's quick thinking and TLC, Humo is back to his old self - and up to his usual tricks!

Congratulations, Humo, and share with all your friends! You're our Pet of the Month!

To learn more, visit our website at sabalchaseanimalclinic.com/home.html

Don't Push a Patient Pet

Last year, an acquaintance told my wife that they were forced to rehome their dog after said dog bit their daughter. When my wife asked if anyone knew what provoked the bite, the mother replied, “Absolutely nothing! Maddie was just in front of Peaches’s face, barking at Peaches like she was a dog. It’s their favorite game - they played it all the time. But this time, Peaches just snapped.”

Let me make this perfectly clear. Dogs NEVER “just snap”. EVER.

I am willing to bet that a fly on the wall would have seen a dog that was showing subtle signs of discomfort, stress, avoidance, or aggravation. And just like their human companions, every dog has a breaking point. A pet that is being tolerant of that kind of in-your-face (literally) behavior, should be rewarded, not forced to endure it further. Instruct children who are harassing dogs that what’s fun for them is considered rude to dogs. Remove younger children from the situation. For older children, take advantage of the teachable moment to learn about more appropriate ways to interact with the family pet.  A patient pet should be cherished and loved, not forced into a situation that causes her to lose her home.

For more information on preventing dog bites to children, click

here.

http://sabalchaseanimalclinic.com/training/usefuladviceforparents.html

To watch Theresa and Betty teach bite prevention at a local pre-school, click here!

http://sabalchaseanimalclinic.com/training/teachkidstoavoidbites.html