tales from straydom . . . . . . tips, stories and resources for pets

Saving Shelter Dogs From The Freezing Winter

Hundreds of dog lovers band together and donate old and used sweaters to be recycled and re-distributed as dogie sweaters to shelters all over the country. Released by- bignutshell.com

HAPPY for Pets

Rep. Thaddeus McCotter (R-Mich.) has introduced H.R. 3501 — the Humanity and Pets Partnered Through the Years (HAPPY) Act — which would amend the federal tax code to allow a person to deduct up to $3,500 per year for pet care, including veterinary expenses.

The Special Needs of the Senior Cat

Just as people are living longer than they did in the past, cats are living longer too. In fact, the percentage of cats over six years of age has nearly doubled in just over a decade, and there is every reason to expect that the “graying” cat population will continue to grow.

Managing Your Pet’s Chronic Renal Disease

Chronic kidney (renal) disease commonly affects older animals, but it also occurs in younger animals with congenital abnormalities. The kidneys are two important organs that filter the blood and remove waste products from the body as urine, maintain the body’s water and electrolyte balance, regulate blood pressure, and produce a hormone that stimulates red blood cell production. When the kidneys fail, these substances build up and cause your pet to feel ill.

Internet Radio Show About “Special Needs” Pets has Launched

The nation’s first Internet radio show about disabled and chronically ill dogs and cats was launched today by Scout’s House™, California’s leading physical rehabilitation therapy and boarding facility for special needs animals. Featuring interviews with a wide range of guests, including veterinarians, medical researchers, and attorneys specializing in animal law, “Special Pets, Special Needs” will help pet owners understand the myriad of medical and functional issues their pets face and give them the information they need to help these important family members live more comfortable and more functional lives.

Pet Hurricane Evacuation Kit

Once again, it is hurricane season. And as we learned from Hurricane Katrina, we need to plan ahead for our pets. If anything, Katrina opened the door for pets as more consideration is being given to their safe evacuation on buses and in motels, etc. Many people evacuating from the path of a hurricane will be packing their pets into their own vehicles as they head for safer ground.

Home Remedy for Dog Ear Infections

Home Remedy for Dog Ear Infections

The Top 9 Foods You Should Never Give Your Dog

There are plenty of foods you should never give your dog. Some foods aren’t even that good for people, but dogs always seem to want what we’re eating. Before you give in to that K-9 companion of yours, take a look at this list and make sure you never give your dog any of these foods.

SC Seizure-Alert Dog Euthanized — No ID

Recently, a South Carolina seizure-alert dog was euthanized at the Beaufort County Animal Control and Shelter just minutes before the owner called in. She had been picked up around the corner from her own home on the day she got out by animal control responding to a call about a loose dog.

For Cats and Dogs: Hold the Onions, Please

Onions are toxic to dogs. The toxicity is dose dependent, so the bigger the animal, the more onion need be consumed to cause a toxicity.