PAUSING AT CAUSE TO PAWS

Your Dog is Lost... Now What Do You Do

2011-10-20T13:33:00.000-04:00

Your Dog is Lost... Now What Do You Do?
Brookline Dog Licensing Program sent this flyer out and I thought I would share the info with you. It's appropriate no matter where you live.

Contact your town's Police Animal Control Officer - in Brookline that number is 617-730-2222. If they are not available make sure to leave your name and contact information and a description of your dog. Make sure to ask that this be logged in - in case someone sees your dog and calls the police.

Contact local animal shelters. Local shelters in the Brookline area include Brookline Animal Hospital - 617-277-2030, the City of Boston Shelter - 617-635-1800, the MSPCA Boston Animal Shelter - 617-522-5055 ext 5369, and the Animal Rescue League Boston Shelter at 617-426-9170. Again, be sure to leave your name, a description of your dog and your contact information. Be sure to call or visit frequently to ensure follow up.

Post a free, widely distributed notice in both the "Lost & Found" and "Pets" section of Craigslist at http://boston.craigslist.org (or your local version).

Print several hundred Lost Dog Flyers on brightly colored, neon paper. Have friends and family post them everywhere (tape to trees - not staple - please) within at least one or two miles of where your dog went missing. (be sure to take them down once the dog is found). If it is raining - insert them into plastic sleeve protectors that you can get at office supply stores - opening facing down so rain won't get in. Provide a number that is monitored 24/7. A flyer template is available at on the Brookline Town Clerk webpage at www.brookline.gov

Make sure your dog has identification tags on them at all times - a minimum of a phone number - even if they are micro-chipped. Chips help once they make it to a Shelter or Vet but if the dog is found by a local person they have no way of reading the microchips and I am sure you would want them to call you ASAP.

In addition to these recommendations, I would suggest contacting local pet related stores- I have often been brought "lost" dogs and even have had some dogs "find" us. Use email, Facebook, Twitter to get the information out - it is the age of Social Networking - put it to good use!

Let's hope it never comes to this.

Halloween - Fun for All but be Safe

2011-10-19T15:03:00.002-04:00

Halloween is just around the corner. It is the second biggest holiday in the US next to Christmas. It is a fun time for all ages - and for PETs.

At Cause to Paws we are having our 7th Annual Howl-O-Ween Pawty on Sunday, Oct 30 from 5 - 7 PM. Every year it seems to get bigger and bigger - more pets, more people and more fun. If you haven't joined us before you should really try and make it this year. We have prizes in various categories - Best Homemade Costume, Funniest, Group/Duo, Overall Favorite and Best Performance or Trick. We have treats for you - and the pets - including my (in)famous carrot and peanut butter Pupcakes. There is Dunking for Discounts and Bobbing for Hot Dogs - or the other way around - seems to change every year. We use to use Rubber Duckies for the Discount Bobbing - but they didn't float - this year we have found actual Plastic Apples that float and you can put slips inside for the discounts - we will of course practice first.

We plan to have a ball this Howl-O-Ween - However there are a few things to keep in mind - to make sure you keep you and your pets safe during Halloween.
Here are some tips I have gathered from a variety of others
thanks to RC Pets & the ASPCA:

Chocolate in all forms can be toxic to dogs and cats — keep candies and chocolate out of reach from your pet. Candies containing the artificial sweetener xylitol can also cause problems. If you do suspect your pet has ingested something toxic, please call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
Popular Halloween plants such as pumpkins and decorative corn are considered to be relatively nontoxic, but they can produce stomach upset in pets who nibble on them
Pet costumes should not impede their movement, breathing, nor hearing and pets must be supervised to ensure that no part of the costume is accidental ingested. For pets who prefer their “birthday suits,” however, wearing a costume may cause undue stress - just because you think it's cute it might not work for your dog. Use your best judgement.
When greeting trick-or-treaters at the door, take extra care that your pet doesn't dart outside.
All but the most social dogs and cats should be kept in a separate room away from the front door during peak trick-or-treating hours. Too many strangers can be scary and stressful for pets.
If going trick-or-treating, make sure your pet is fitted properly for a collar and is leashed. Always make sure your dog or cat has proper identification
Don't forget to clip on a Safety Light and/or pair your pet with a High Visibility Vest for added safety!

Socializing Your Pets - Yappy Hour/Ask the Trainer

2011-06-14T13:26:00.001-04:00

Socialization of Dogs is very important - especially puppies. Puppies need to meet people - all kinds - and other dogs - young and old. The ultimate goal is for them to avoid displaying fear or aggression. There are a number of different ways you can accomplish this - one is to find a situation where they can meet lots of people and other dogs.

One option is something like the Yappy Hours we hold at Cause to Paws. We push aside the displays and make room for the dogs (and people) to interact and socialize. These supervised sessions with other dogs is a good idea - you need to make sure to do this only after your puppy has received its full set of vaccinations. We also have a couch area where you can sit with your puppy in a more private way, where you and others can handle and pet the puppy/dog or allow them to "retreat" to an area where they can rest in case they get tired from playing with the other dogs. And it is fun. We test out new treats (for people and pets), toys and talk about our dogs - doesn't get much better than that.

Training your Pet - You can also attend socialization classes or a variety of training options - that go beyond just Puppy training. Many trainers offer a variety of classes including Agility, Dog Park Behavior, Canine Good Citizen Training, and much more. At Cause to Paws we often have trainers come in to give free talks - including "Ask the Trainer" - where you can meet a trainer and ask questions (and remember no question is a stupid one) - about your dog's behavior, training or any concerns you might be having. It's a good way to know what is available before making a commitment . We have a new session coming up on Sunday, June 19th starting at 3 PM with Vera Wilkinson, from The Cooperative Dog.

In addition to classes - walk the streets, bring them to a park and spend as much time as necessary to ensure that you have a well trained, socialized and happy puppy/dog. It is well worth the effort.

Pets, Sports, Clothing and Toys.......

2011-06-12T14:44:00.000-04:00

Well Winter has come & gone - somewhere in there we have had Spring since I last posted on this Blog. I also think we had one day of Summer stuck in there somewhere & today it feels more like Fall. Hard to keep things straight - but that's New England for you.

Often I can tell what season it is by what Sport's Teams are in the News but with the Celtics & Bruins in their respective playoffs this year that has made it harder. Did do well with the C's & B's Tanks , Collars & Bandanas. As always we have a lot of Red Sox fans who show their pride all year round, although it was tough at the beginning of the season. Being only a mile from Fenway Park, we are often on the route home & we get a lot of happy fans (at least this May and June) who want to show that their dogs are part of Red Sox Nation, too.

Annie showing her Bruin's Pride

New England Patriots have their Pet supporters as well - but that appears to be very season oriented - a more Winter, TV watching item of clothing - goes well with the doggy pizza we sell!

And let's not forget the Cat Owners. We've decked them out in Sports clothing as well. Somehow dressing your dog or cat in sports/college teams does not qualify as dressing your dog among those squeamish with that concept. Seems these items don't count as clothing.

And Toys - as most of us know dogs (& cats) like to play with ball like objects - dogs have a thing for squeaky tennis balls & we also do a big business in small soccer balls (soft vinyl squeaking types - Kanji's favorite) - interesting that Footballs, Hockey Pucks and Baseballs are not high on the list of available (and likable) pet toys options.

Oh well.... I promise to be more communicative about the happenings in the dog world and Cause to Paw. Lot's of stuff happening. Like my Facebook Page and keep up to date on everything.

Off Leash Dog Parks

2011-01-10T13:33:00.000-05:00

OFF LEASH PARK RULES

My town - Brookline, MA recently made the news - even National news, when they announced that they were thinking about (and then did enact) a fee for dogs to go unleashed in the approved parks in Brookline. as part of their Green Dog Program. This caused quite the uproar at a Town Selectman Hearing with members of the community from, both sides of the issue, trying to voice their opinions. Selectman voted to charge $50/year per dog (residents - $100 for non residents) for the right to have your dog off leash during designated hours as well as a vendor fee to professional dog walkers. The money is to help fund a Park Ranger to help with enforcement/compliance as well as to improve the communication with dog owners about the program. Previously this was all done on a volunteer basis. It was agreed that the cost was far greater to run the program then they will collect but the Town felt it was necessary to begin to add additional fees for use of the Parks (fees for organized Sports will also be charged).

I don't want to get into the pro's and con's of charging for the right to have your dog off leash - I can see both sides of the issue - what I want to talk about is what to do once you are at the park, basically park etiquette.

Brookline's Rules - which are similar or should be followed in all parks include the following:

Aggressive dogs are not permitted on or off-leash.
Dogs who show continued aggression towards people, other dogs, or wildlife must be removed immediately.
The number of dogs per person is limited to three.
Dogs must be 4 months old to participate in the program.
Dogs in heat are not allowed off-leash

Before You Go to a Park

License your dog and make sure vaccinations are current. Dogs must be licensed, vaccinated, and healthy (no contagious conditions, diseases, or parasites). Put license and identification on dog's collar.
Make sure your dog is under voice control (dog responds to and obeys your verbal commands).
Bring waste pick-up bags. Cleaning up after your dog is critical and one of the major issues when the discussion about the program is brought up - COMPLIANCE to hours and waste removal are the biggest concerns always discussed.

At the Park

Keep your dog on leash until you are inside the park. Keep your leash on hand at all times.
Check for park closed signs, wet fields, crews working in the park, or permitted activities, all of which mean off-leash hours are suspended.
Pick up after your dog and encourage others to do the same.
Keep your dog in sight at all times and under voice control.
Be mindful of your dog so that other park visitors, their children, and their dogs are not anxious about their safety. Many people do not like unfamiliar dogs — and sometimes other dogs don't like unfamiliar dogs.

To learn more about Brookline's program check out the following links
http://brooklinegreendog.com/
http://www.brooklinema.gov/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=706&Itemid=1029

If you are bitten by a dog at the park or if your dog bites others - there are things you need to know:
Regardless of who is the biter or the bitten - both are equally responsible for the incident. Check the injuries - if there are puncture wound these can become infected and need to be treated. Exchange contact info and get witnesses info as well.. In Massachusetts the guardian of a dog who bites a person may be held liable for civil damages. Check out dogbitelaw.com
(thanks to Tails Inc of this information).

KANJI's - New Years Resolutions

2010-12-07T12:29:00.000-05:00

Came across this in an email and I thought it was definitely time to start writing and sharing again. This is so appropriate and could have easily been written by my dog, Kanji!

I hope everyone has a great Holiday Season - and a very Healthy one, too.

CONSIDER THIS KANJI's NEW YEARS RESOLUTION OR HIS 12 DAYs of FORGIVENESS!

Dear God: Let me give you a list of just some of the things I must remember to be a good Dog.

1. I will not eat the cats' food before they eat it or after they throw it up.

2. I will not roll on dead seagulls, fish, crabs, etc., just because I like the way they smell.

3. The Litter Box is not a cookie jar.

4. The sofa is not a 'face towel'.

5. The garbage collector is not stealing our stuff.

6. I will not play tug-of-war with Dad's underwear when he's on the toilet.

7. Sticking my nose into someone's crotch is an unacceptable way of saying 'hello'.

8. I don't need to suddenly stand straight up when I'm under the coffee table

9. I must shake the rainwater out of my fur before entering the house - not after.

10. I will not come in from outside and immediately drag my butt across the carpet.

11. I will not sit in the middle of the living room and lick my crotch.

12. The cat is not a 'squeaky toy' so when I play with him and he makes that noise,
it's usually not a good thing.

P.S. Dear God: When I get to Heaven may I have my testicles back?

(I keep telling him that he looks better without them! and that he really doesn't need them to be a happy, healthy dog - but he's a guy and you know how that is!)

October is Adopt a Dog Month

2010-10-08T14:56:00.000-04:00

Haven't written in awhile and decided it was time to do an update. My last write up was on Why to Adopt a Dog - How appropriate that my new one is on adopting as well!October is Adopt a Dog Month. I found the following on the ASPCA site and thought I would share it with you. 60% of dogs brought to shelters are euthanized. We should try and save as many as possible!

Top 10 Reasons to Adopt an Older Dog

1. What You See Is What You Get
Older dogs are open books—from the start, you’ll know important things like their full-grown size, personality and grooming requirements. All this information makes it easier to pick the right dog and forge that instant love connection that will last a lifetime. If you’re not so into surprises, an older dog is for you!
2. Easy to Train
Think you can’t teach an old dog new tricks? Hogwash! Older dogs are great at focusing on you—and on the task at hand—because they’re calmer than youngsters. Plus, all those years of experience reading humans can help them quickly figure out how to do what you’re asking.
3. Seniors are Super-Loving
One of the cool parts of our job is reading stories from people just like you who have opted to adopt. The emails we get from pet parents with senior dogs seem to all contain beautiful, heartfelt descriptions of the love these dogs give you—and those of you who adopted dogs already in their golden years told us how devoted and grateful they are. It's an instant bond that cannot be topped!
4. They’re Not a 24-7 Job
Grownup dogs don’t require the constant monitoring puppies do, leaving you with more freedom to do your own thing. If you have young children, or just value your “me time,” this is definitely a bonus.
5. They Settle in Quickly
Older dogs have been around the block and already learned what it takes to get along with others and become part of a pack. They’ll be part of the family in no time!
6. Fewer Messes
Your floors, shoes and furniture will thank you for adopting a senior pooch! Older dogs are likely to already be housetrained—and even if they’re not, they have the physical and mental abilities to pick it up really fast (unlike puppies). With their teething years far behind them, seniors also are much less likely to be destructive chewers.
7. You Won’t Bite Off More Than You Can Chew
There are those who yearn for a doggie friend of their own, but hold back because they worry what might happen in their lives in the years to come. And they are wise to do so—a puppy or young dog can be anywhere from an 8- to 20-year responsibility, which is not appropriate for the very elderly or those with certain long-term future plans. Providing a loving home for a dog in her golden years is not a less serious commitment, but it can be a shorter one.
8. They Enjoy Easy Livin’
Couch potato, know thyself! Please consider a canine retiree rather than a high-energy young dog who will run you ragged. Not that older dogs don’t require any exercise—they do—but they’re not going to need, or want, to run a marathon every day.
9. Save a Life, Be a Hero
At shelters, older dogs are often the last to be adopted and the first to be euthanized. Saving an animal’s life offers an unparalleled emotional return on your investment, and you’ll feel the rewards every day you spend together.
10. They’re CUTE!

Getting a dog - Consider Adoption.

2010-07-07T14:17:00.004-04:00

I am constantly surprised by the number of calls I get a from people wondering if I sell dogs. I find it interesting that people still think that calling a retail store is the way to go to buy their new dog. With so many dogs, of all types, available for adoption I am saddened that people still turn to pet stores for their dogs when there are so many other options available. Many dogs at pet shops come from Puppy Mills and can bring their own set of problems.

My dog was given to me by a friend - Kanji was an "accident", a wonderful accident between neighbors dogs ( a true love child) -but I wonder if I hadn't taken him would he have gone to a shelter and found a home - I sure hope so. There are lot of good people out there trying to help loving cats and dogs find new homes. There are a lot of reasons dogs and cats end up in shelters and it doesn't mean there is anything wrong with them. All dogs are checked out first to make sure they are adoptable. I suggest to people that a local shelter is the first place they should look for their new pet. I see lots of adopted dogs in my store and all their owners are thrilled with their choices. Even if you are looking for a specific breed there are breed specific rescue groups that can help. Adopting an older dog may also be an option you should consider. They are often well trained and socialized making new dog ownership that much easier.

Some local options for adopting dogs include:

The Animal Shelter Inc. of Sterling, Massachusetts is a non-profit organization (formed in 1988 - incorporated in 1994) and no-kill animal shelter with no time or age restrictions.

One of their great causes that they support is the Save A Sato Program – www.saveasato.org – Established May 1999 - this is a joint life-saving venture with animal rescue volunteers of Puerto Rico. Hundreds of homeless, starved, poisoned and tortured animals are rescued and rehabilitated and sent to the shelter in Sterling, MA each year. The volunteers in Puerto Rico (at their own cost) take these animals known as "Satos" (mixed breed street dogs) off the cruel streets and care for them until they are healthy enough to be flown to Massachusetts. They are bathed, re-vaccinated, spayed or neutered, and vet checked. To date this shelter has rescued and re-homed thousands of these amazing animals.

Animal Rescue League, Boston adoption@arlboston.org The Animal Rescue League is a non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing domesticated animals and wildlife from suffering, cruelty, abandonment, and neglect. Since 1899 we have advocated the philosophy of our founder, Anna Harris Smith, that “Kindness Uplifts the World”.

MSPCA Boston Animal Care & Adoption Center www.mspca.org/boston The MSPCA's animal care and adoption centers around the state take in as many as 1,000 animals per center per month during the busy summer season. They provide vital services such as adoptions, behavior training, humane-education programs and spay/neuter programs.

Northeast Animal Shelter http://www.northeastanimalshelter.org One of New England's Largest No-kill Animal Shelters. Since 1976 Northeast Animal Shelter has placed almost 100,000 animals in loving homes.

A great place to find a cat - The Gifford Shelter www.giffordcatshelter.org is a cageless, no-kill facility founded in 1884 and sponsored by Ellen Gifford. The shelter is a pioneer in creating an environment that does not confine cats to small, movement-restricting cages.

You can always check out www.petfinder.com for other options - a great resource.

Fireworks and Dogs

2010-06-23T13:14:00.004-04:00

It's that time of the year - in addition to Thunder and Lightening storms the dogs now need to deal with Fireworks - which can not only be scary but dangerous for them. Many dogs react with fear when they hear the loud, unfamiliar sounds of fireworks.

Here is some info you might find helpful: 8 Tips for Keeping your Dogs Calm on July 4th
by Lisa Spector June 29th, 2009

1. Make sure your dog gets plenty of exercise earlier in the day.
2. Keep your dogs inside during fireworks, preferably with human companionship.
3. Provide a safe place inside for your dogs to retreat. When scared of sounds they can’t orient, dogs often prefer small enclosed areas. (I once had a dog who climbed in the bathtub during windstorms.)
4. If possible, keep the windows and curtains closed.
5. Make sure all your dogs are wearing ID tags with a properly fitting collar. (Dogs have been known to become Houdini around the 4th of July.)
6. Leave your dog something fun to do – like a frozen Kong filled with his favorite treats.
7. Train with counter classical conditioning. Patricia McConnell, Ph.D., CAAB, has a very clear definition and tips here.http://www.patriciamcconnell.com/thunderstorm-phobia-in-dogs.html
8. Sound Therapy: Play Music to Calm your Canine Companion Vol. 1 and 2. It is most effective when you first play the music well before the fireworks start, at a time the dog is already peaceful and relaxed. He will begin to associate the music with being calm and content. Then play the music a couple of hours before the fireworks start and continue to play through bedtime. The music doesn’t need to be loud to be effective as it has been clinically demonstrated to calm the canine nervous system. Click here for free samples and downloadshttp://www.throughadogsear.com/music_compositions.htm

Other options include using calming therapies such as:
D.A.P. is a "dog appeasing" pheromone that will help calm your dog's nerves. This pheromone is similar to the one mother dogs use to soothe their new born puppies.
Rescue Remedy: Bach Flower Remedies has an all-natural Rescue Remedy product for pets that you can apply directly to their skin or add to their drinking water or food to help soothe them through stressful situations. Rescue Remedy can be used in conjunction with other therapies - including Lavender aromatherapy foam or treats like Mellow Mutt from Dogswell that contains chamomile, clover, lemon balm and linden flower. We carry these options at Cause to Paws.

I believe you should do whatever necessary to give your dog comfort. Be your dog’s advocate – do whatever you can to make her feel better during the storm.

Another Spring Health Tip

2010-05-18T12:04:00.003-04:00

As a follow up to my last Blog where I talked about never leaving your dog in a car - especially as the weather heats up - here are some other Tips for keeping your dog fit, safe and sound during the warm weather months.

We all seem to become more active in the Spring and Summer with lots of activities - primarily out door ones with our dogs. Many of you go hiking with your dogs on trails in the woods, hills or even a long sandy/rocky beaches.

Things you need to think about include:
1. Start early in the day when it is cooler, morning air is the best and this also helps to prevent your dog from overheating.

2. Dog's noses, ears and other sensitive areas need protection with sunscreen much like humans do - they can burn. Sunscreen is especially important in light skinned dogs - especially white ones. There are even naturally dog and tick sprays that contain a sun screen. We carry Mad About Organics - their spray contains Jojoba Oil which is a good natural approach.

3. Always be conscientious of your dogs breathing patterns - it is important to avoid over doing and causing exhaustion in your pet. Keep in mind the rule about going only half as far as you think you can because you have to come back that same distance! Your dog may need to build up endurance early in the season.

4. Just like in humans - Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate! Make sure that you have fresh water with you. There are many types of portable water containers available - including one that is simply a roller ball that fits on the top of any water bottle - It is called Pet Tops and we have carry these a long with other options.

5. Be sure to check your pets paws for wear, damage and injury. Rocks, sticks, sand and other debris can cause injuries. You can use boots on your dog if necessary especially if you are doing a lot of trail hiking in the woods/mountains. Waxes like Mushers or Paw Wax can be used to soothe as well as protect the dogs pads from wear and tear and abrasions.

Have fun but be safe!

NEVER LEAVE YOUR PET IN THE CAR!

2010-05-08T15:59:00.003-04:00

We had a very scary experience last week in front of the store. There was a dog left in a closed up car when the temperatures outside were close to 80 Degrees. Everyone on the block went on a search for the owner to no avail. The dog began to look stressed. The police were eventually called and an animal officer showed up (but to be honest he didn't seem to concerned or to even know what to do). Someone was about to use a hammer to break the window when the owner finally showed up. She seemed very unconcerned and said the dog liked warm weather - trust me if it is warm outside it is HOT in the car - even if the windows are open. The good news is that the dog survived, but the woman left in a huff and I am sure she will do it again AND the Brookline police did nothing. This surely must be a crime.

In Watertown a similar incident happened that a friend told me about. In this case the police did break the window just as the woman showed up, gave her a $1500 ticket for cruelty and took her and the dog to Angell Memorial to be check out - this is the way it should have been handled. Thank you Anne Conklin - my hero!

Bottomline - NEVER leave your dog alone in the car on a warm day, regardless of whether the windows are open. Even if the weather outside is not extremely hot, the inside of the car acts like an oven - temperatures can rise to dangerously high levels in a matter of minutes. When a dog is exposed to high temperatures, heat stroke or heat exhaustion can result. Heat stroke is a very serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. Once the signs of heat stroke are detected, there is precious little time before serious damage - or even death - can occur.

Understanding and Preventing Hyperthermia By Jenna Stregowski, RVT, About.com Guide says if you have even the slightest suspicion that your dog is suffering from heat stoke, you must take immediate action.

First, move your dog out of the heat and away from the sun right away.
Begin cooling your dog by placing cool, wet rags or washcloths on the body - especially the foot pads and around the head.
DO NOT use ice or very cold water! Extreme cold can cause the blood vessels to constrict, preventing the body's core from cooling and actually causing the internal temperature to further rise. In addition, over-cooling can cause hypothermia, introducing a host of new problems. When the body temperature reaches 103°, stop cooling.
Offer your dog cool water, but do not force water into your dog's mouth.
Call or visit your vet right away - even if your dog seems better. Internal damage might not be obvious to the naked eye, so an exam is necessary (and further testing may be recommended).
Be smart, Be safe!

Xylitol Poisoning in Dogs on the Rise

2010-04-30T11:30:00.003-04:00

Just read an article posted on Pet Health Care about the rise of Xylitol poisoning in Dogs and I thought it would be a good idea to share some of it with you.

Xylitol is an artificial sweetener that is primarily used as a substitute for sugar in a lot of diet and confectionery products.

Xylitol negatively effects dogs as it is quickly absorbed through their digestive tracts. Xylitol in tiny amounts can potentially cause significant toxic poisoning in dogs. Even just one to two pieces of regular sized chewing gum that contains Xylitol can be potentially toxic to a dog that weighs less than 20lbs. In dogs who have ingested Xylitol, the symptoms are vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, loss of coordination, pale gums, liver damage/failure, and even seizures. If these symptoms are not immediately treated, Xylitol toxicity may eventually lead to liver failure, blood clotting abnormalities, and possibly death. Therefore it is of extreme importance that you take your dog to a veterinarian immediately if you suspect that he ingested any Xylitol containing product, especially if it has been less than 2 hours as a veterinarian will have better luck in preventing your dog’s body from absorbing it.

As a dog owner you can prevent Xylitol poisoning by removing all consumer products containing Xylitol from your home. Better safe then sorry.

We've Chosen to Go Natural and Here's Why

2010-04-29T13:21:00.003-04:00

EPA warns of some flea, tick control products
By Garner Roberts Special to the Reporter-News Friday, April 17, 2009

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency this week said it is intensifying its evaluation of flea and tick control products for pets that involve the use of spot-on pesticide treatments, sprays, collars and shampoos.

The federal agency reported "a recent sharp increase" in the number of incidents reported of adverse reactions, ranging from mild effects such as skin irritation to more serious effects such as seizures and, in some cases, deaths of pets. The EPA statement issued by Dale Kemery says the "spot-on products are generally sold in tubes or vials and are applied to one or more localized areas on the body of the pet, such as in between the shoulders or in a stripe along the back." The agency lists seven products on its Web site (www.epa.gov).

More than 44,000 "potential incidents" associated with spot-on products were reported to the EPA in 2008. The EPA said "a cause and effect relationship between these products and any individual adverse reaction or incident has not been confirmed. EPA is carefully evaluating all available data."

There are lot's of natural alternatives to protect your pets. We've chosen to use Mad About Organics as our alternative for Flea and Tick control. Their Dog Flea & Tick Skin Treatment is a safe, natural and effective flea and tick treatment Developed using Organic Infused Oils (Olive Oil, Neem, Catnip, Lemongrass and Yarrow) and Aloe Vera Oil, Organic Essential Oils (Catnip, Clove, Calendula, Cedarwood, Lavender, Juniper Berry, Tea Tree, Citronella, Eucalyptus and Lemongrass) with guaranteed results.

Lavender oil which repels fleas as well as ticks, mosquitoes and other insects naturally and effectively. Lemongrass is quite popular as an insect repellent due to its insecticidal properties. Catnip - Researchers report that Nepetalactone, the essential oil in Catnip that gives the plant its characteristic odor, is about 10 times more effective at repelling mosquitoes then DEET - the compound used in most commercial insect repellents. Calendula oil improves the blood flow to the inflicted area and in further tissue regeneration. It remains one of the most popular herbal anti-fungal and anti-bacterial remedies to promote skin healing and cell regeneration. Tea Tree Oil is an efficient insect deterrent and insect killer. It does not let parasites and other insects like mosquitoes, fleas, lice, flies.

We also use Dog or Cat Relief Spray. It's list of Ingredients include - Organic Apple Cider Vinegar, Olive Oil, Organic Infused Oils(Calendula, Lemongrass, Catnip, Neem and Yarrow) and Jojoba Oil, Organic Essential Oils (Lavender, Citronella, Eucalyptus, Catnip, Peppermint, Lemongrass, Calendula, Cedarwood, Juniper Berry, Geranium, Orange, Rosemary and Witch Hazel) Borax and Lecithin. In addition to being a great Insect Repellent a wonderful side benefit from this spray is it also works as a natural sun screen, which is great for those fair skinned animals (My Dog Kanji falls into this category- white colored dogs have sensitive skin and need protection) or to help keep your animal's hair color from fading.

Made in Eugene Oregon by Mad About Organics these safe, natural and effective animal care products are great for those who care about the environment as much as they care about their pets.

Why Canine Dental Hygiene Is Important

2010-04-06T12:53:00.002-04:00

I found the following helpful information on vetinfo.com and thought it would be nice to share.

Your dog can't brush his own teeth. But that doesn't mean that plaque and tartar won't build up on his teeth. It doesn't mean that he won't get cavities, or suffer from gum disease, abscesses, or the pain and inflammation associated with infected teeth.

These ailments can cause your dog a lot of pain and suffering. They can inhibit his ability to enjoy meals, and impact his overall health. Daily brushing with dog toothpaste is a necessary part of your dog's dental hygiene regimen, along with yearly veterinary dental exams and dental cleaning. Daily brushing can go a long way toward keeping your dog's teeth, and your dog, healthy.

Some symptoms of canine dental hygiene problems include:
Halitosis, or bad breath, Bloody saliva, Broken or fractured teeth, Excessive drooling , Diminished appetite, Swollen, bleeding, or inflammed gums, Yellowish-brown tartar build-up along the gum line. If your dog exhibits any of these symptoms, he's probably suffering from gingivitis or periodontitis.

Preventing Dog Dental Problems
Dog toothpaste is a vital part of a preventative dental hygiene regimen. You might think that brushing your dog's teeth is too difficult, and it's true that it can take some time to accustom an adult dog to this practice. It's best to start when your dog is a puppy; he'll get used to having his teeth brushed much more quickly. But even if you have an adult dog, you can still begin a canine dental hygiene regimen.
More info on how to brush your dogs teeth can be found at: http://www.vetinfo.com/dog-toothpaste-essential.html

If you find it difficult to brush the dogs teeth daily there are some other options you can try - including Petzlife Gel that helps to "melt" the tarter from the teeth. The ingredients mix with your pet's saliva when applied on your pet's teeth and completely coats your pet’s teeth and mouth. This process kills harmful bacteria and loosens plaque and tarter. Available at Cause to Paws.

How to Calculate a Dog's Age in Dog Years

2010-03-20T12:31:00.003-04:00

From Dogster.com

A popular misconception is that dogs age 7 years for each calendar year. In fact, canine aging is much more rapid during the first 2 years of a dog's life. After the first 2 years the ratio settles down to 5 to 1 for small and medium breeds. For large breeds the rate is 6 to 1, and for giant breeds the rate is 7 to 1. Thus, at 10 years of age a Great Dane would be 80 years old while a pug would only be 64.

How to Tell a Dog's Age
If you've taken in a dog whose age is unknown, there are some ways to determine his age. Here are some things vets check to get a general sense of how old a dog is:
The Teeth: Dogs usually have a set of permanent teeth by their seventh month, so if you've come across a dog with clean pearly whites, he is likely a year old or thereabouts. Yellowing on a dog's back teeth may put the dog between one and two years of age, while tartar build-up at a minimal level could mean you have a dog between 3 and 5. Missing teeth or severe wear usually means the dog is a senior and could use some special dental care.
Muscle Tone: Younger dogs are more likely to have some muscle definition from their higher activity level. Older dogs are usually either a tad bonier or a little fatter from decreased activity.
The Coat: A younger dog usually has a soft, fine coat, whereas an older dog tends to have thicker, coarser (and sometimes oilier) fur. A senior dog may display grays or patches of white, particularly around the snout.
The Eyes: Bright, clear eyes without tearing or discharge are common in younger dogs. Cloudy or opaque eyes may mean an older dog.

Old Age in Dogs
The age at which a dog can be considered elderly varies widely among models. In general, the larger the dog, the more quickly it declines. For instance, a Great Dane could be considered "senior" at age 5, while a smaller toy poodle would still be spry at twice that age. Remember, however, that just because a dog is chronologically old doesn't mean that an endless series of malfunctions is in store. In many cases an elderly dog can enjoy many healthy, active, pain-free years.
One of the best ways to prolong the life and improve the functions of an elderly dog is to carefully regulate its fuel intake. Older dogs exercise less and thus need fewer calories. And since age reduces their ability to digest and absorb nutrients, high-quality food specifically formulated for their needs is a necessity. Excessive amounts of protein, phosphorus, and sodium can aggravate kidney and heart problems, so most such foods contain smaller amounts of higher-quality protein, along with reduced quantities of other elements. Levels of vitamins, zinc, fatty acids, and fiber, however, are increased.

Need a Good Laugh - Read This

2010-03-11T12:42:00.003-05:00

The following was found posted very low on a refrigerator door.

Dear Dogs and Cats:

The dishes with the paw prints are yours and contain your food. The other dishes are mine and contain my food. Placing a paw print in the middle of my plate and food does not stake a claim for it becoming your food and dish, nor do I find that aesthetically pleasing in the slightest.

The stairway was not designed by NASCAR and is not a racetrack. Racing me to the bottom is not the object. Tripping me doesn't help because I fall faster than you can run.

I cannot buy anything bigger than a king sized bed. I am very sorry about this. Do not think I will continue sleeping on the couch to ensure your comfort, however. Dogs and cats can actually curl up in a ball when they sleep. It Is not necessary to sleep perpendicular to each other, stretched out to the fullest extent possible. I also know that sticking tails straight out and having tongues hanging out on the other end to maximize space is nothing but sarcasm.

For the last time, there is no secret exit from the bathroom! If, by some miracle, I beat you there and manage to get the door shut, it is not necessary to claw, whine, meow, try to turn the knob or get your paw under the edge in an attempt to open the door. I must exit through the same door I entered. Also, I have been using the bathroom for years - canine/feline attendance is not required.

The proper order for kissing is: Kiss me first, then go smell the other dog or cat's butt. I cannot stress this enough. Finally, in fairness, dear pets, I have posted the following message on the front door:

TO ALL NON-PET OWNERS WHO VISIT AND LIKE TO COMPLAIN ABOUT OUR PETS:

(1) They live here. You don't.
(2) If you don't want their hair on your clothes, stay off the furniture. That's why they call it 'fur'-niture.
(3) I like my pets a lot better than I like most people.
(4) To you, they are animals. To me, they are adopted sons/daughters who are short, hairy, walk on all fours and don't speak clearly.

Remember, dogs and cats are better than kids because they eat less, don't ask for money all the time, are easier to train, normally come when called, never ask to drive the car, don't hang out with drug-using people, don't smoke or drink, don't want to wear your clothes, don't have to buy the latest fashions, don't need a gazillion dollars for college and if they get pregnant, you can sell their children ...

Not all Bully Sticks are the same

2010-02-19T17:00:00.003-05:00

Not all Bully Sticks are the same. Where they come from and how they are processed are things to consider. We primarily carry Bully Sticks from Top Dog - these are from free range South American cattle- which means that they cattle roam freely and graze on wild grass - there are no hormones, no antibiotics and no steroids involved, nor dyes or coloring used. These are vertically drained and then baked, a safer approach then sun drying, although more expensive. These sticks are not irradiated and are evaluated by the FDA and USDA after going through inspection by the Brazilian Ministry of Agriculture. Also it seems that thicker is not necessarily better.

Odor free? Well that's a whole other story. My take is - how did they get them odor free? My dog only likes things that smell so odor free would not cut it for him.

Other options for chews include Trachea - very digestible with a crunchy texture and high in chondroitin, which helps form and nourish cartilage. You can even fill them with peanut butter as an extra special treat.

Lamb chews - such as ears are lower in fat then say pigs ears - and great for small dogs. Also, Pizzles- the lamb equivalent of a bully stick and weasands are other options for the small dogs.

At Cause to Paws we try to carry a large selection of bones/treats/tendons to meet all types of chewers. Be sure to check it out the next time you are in the store.

What is Catnip?

2010-01-26T14:43:00.006-05:00

Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is a member of the mint family. The active ingredient, nepacetalone, is what has the magic effect on our cats. It pleasantly stimulates pheromone receptors in the cat's nose. Too much catnip can make a cat aggressive, causing her to growl or hiss, so as with all recreational pleasures, moderation is key.

About one-third of cats have no response to catnip. Quality of catnip varies. At Cause to Paws we sell a variety of toys with catnip in them, some are refillable, others are not. We also sell loose organic catnip as well as "teabags" full of catnip to put into toys. Dried catnip can be revived by crunching it between your hands to release the oils. Catnip can also come in a spray- It is steamed distilled to produce a pure extract and then is blended with spring water. It can be utilized to revive those toys that cannot be refilled.

Catnip is not addictive, but if you give it to your cats every day the effect will begin to wear off, so Jane Kelley says "save the 'nip for special occasions". Cat expert and animal communicator Jane A Kelley is the webmaster and chief cat slave for Paws and Effect, a weekly cat advice column by cats, for cats and their people.

According to Duckyworld (our #1 selling catnip - toys and loose), catnip also makes a wonderful tea for people with feverish colds or who have trouble sleeping. catnip tea also helps settle an upset stomach, toothache and relieves gas!

How to Stop Unwanted Barking

2010-01-05T13:17:00.003-05:00

Found a great article on Dogster. Here is a summary/shortened version that I thought you might find helpful.

Dogs bark to communicate with you. Learning why they bark is the key to stop your dog from barking. Depending on the reason for barking and your own training skill level, you may need to consult with a qualified trainer/behaviorist to assist you with the training. For more on selecting a behavior professional, check out the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior guidelines for choosing a trainer.

Just as there are many reasons humans speak, dog barking occurs for a number of reasons. Here are a few of the most common:

Distance decreasing: Distance decreasing barking can also be considered attention-seeking barking. The dog is barking to communicate with the owner - "pay attention to me!"
Boredom: Evaluate your dog's lifestyle. How much physical exercise is she getting? How much social stimulation through appropriate play with other dogs? How much play does she get with you? Is she getting adequate mental stimulation in the form of both training and problem solving? If your dog is barking because of boredom, consider more physical exercise, more positive training, and introduce new toys and games for environmental enrichment (At Cause to Paws we have lots of interactive toys that can help)
Frustration: While some frustration barking is boredom barking, not all boredom barking is frustration barking. Often in class, dogs bark when their owners have poor timing or because the rate of reinforcement is too low, the dog is frustrated because the signals are unclear.
Separation distress (limited vocalization, no injury to self or property), consider how long the dog is left alone - if it is more than eight hours for an adult (even shorter periods of separation are recommended for puppies), find a dog walker or pet sitter to break the day up. Provide her with mental stimulation through puzzle toys, kibble hunts, etc., when she is alone. (At Cause to Paws we carry things like DAP - Dog Appeasing Pheromone - sprays or collars, Rescue Remedy drops, Happy Traveler tablets from Ark Naturals which often helps calm the dog while you are gone or Lavendar Foam can help your dog to relax.Greetings, and exits should be low key).
Invitation to play: Some dogs bark to say, "Hey, I want to meet/play with you NOW NOW NOW!" (puppy barking frequently falls in this category). These barks are generally high pitched, and are often accompanied by wagging "propeller tails," loose/wiggly body language, play bows and jumping. Ask those who would like to interact with her to wait for calm, quiet behavior before greeting to avoid reinforcing the behavior.
Separation anxiety: True separation anxiety (destruction to self or property) is a topic beyond the scope of this Blog. If your dog is injuring herself or destroying your home, We recommend you seek the assistance of a behaviorist such as Vera Wilkinson from the Cooperative Dog, in addressing this issue.

Rawhide - What is it really?

2009-12-08T13:24:00.004-05:00

Have you ever wondered what Rawhide really is?
Rawhide is the inner layer of the hide of any cleft-hoofed bovine livestock. The animal's skin is split into inner and outer layers. The tough outer layer is used for leather shoes, garments, and upholstery, while the softer inner layer is cut and formed into different shapes for dog chews.

Beef-Hide is premium rawhide made from cows raised for consumption. American Beef-Hide is derived from corn-fed cows within U.S. borders.

Collagen fibers link to make the animal's hide tough yet flexible. Human skin has the same basic structure but is much thinner. When collagen in the skin dries out, it becomes stiff. As your dog chews, the saliva moistens and softens the rawhide. Foreign rawhide is often sun parched while U.S. beef-hide is oven dried to prevent over drying.

The quality of rawhide is often related to its country of origin: We try to carry only American Beef-hide: Corn-fed beef raised in the U.S. supply a thick, palatable and high quality chew. American beef-hide is considered "The Source" of choice for premium chews.

Natural tendencies of wild canines and their predecessors was to sink their teeth into their prey and pull away on the hides stripping the skin and meat. Inherent in this feeding processes was the beneficial action of the tugging and pressure on the teeth and gums which served to toughen the gums and clean the teeth for a continuously healthy mouth.

Dental Benefits: As rawhide is chewed and moistened, it wraps around the teeth and rubs off plaque and calculi. Behavior Benefits: All dogs have an inherent desire to chew, especially puppies. Aberrant chewing can be a sign of lack of exercise or a vitamin deficiency, but it is most often a normal desire to chew. This drive can exhibit itself on furniture and clothing items. Beef-hide offers a dog a safe chewing outlet.

But are they safe for my dog? Not everyone is comfortable using rawhide, it is up to you to decide. Chews come in every size and shape imaginable. It is important that the chew be large enough and thick enough that your dog cannot easily chew off and swallow a large piece or the whole chew. Rawhide that requires more than 7 days to chew should be replaced due to dirt and bacteria buildup.

If your dog has gastrointestinal disease or is eating a therapeutic diet, you should seek a veterinarian's approval before feeding any chews. Dogs with beef allergies or that consistently swallow bones whole should probably chew unattended.

Hope Everyone Had a Great Thanksgiving

2009-12-03T16:15:00.007-05:00

Are you prepared for the Holidays?

Now it's time to think about the next set of Holidays. Whether you celebrate Hanukkah, Christmas or Kwanzaa, it is great to include your pets in the celebrations.

Taking a photo to send to friends and family? Don't forget to get the family cat or dog involved. We carry Antlers, Santa or Elf Hats and holiday outfits for the pets. It definitely bringa a smile to everyone (well maybe not the cat or dog- but what a photo opp!)

If you don't have a pet, doing something for a friends cat or dog is often greatly appreciated as well. Going to a cookie swap with friends who have pets, bring along some bakery treats for the dog - everyone will comment on how thoughtful you are.

Gift Baskets filled with treats and toys for a business associate is one option if you don't know what to get them (of course this only works if they have a pet) - there are just so many bottles of wine or cheese baskets one can receive! At Cause to Paws we can put something together for you - or you can pick out items yourself and package them up. Either way people will really appreciate your thoughtfulness.

Other things to keep in mind.

Be careful at Holiday Dinners - this is a great opportunity for dogs to seize half-carved turkeys, half-cut hams and semi-sliced roasts from the kitchen counter top - or eat things they shouldn't - like chocolate or candy. Even too many dog treats can be harmful, keep an eye out.

Which brings up another concern - Call your vet and check his or her schedule for the Holidays. Ask if there will be emergency care available. Your vet's office might be closed, so be sure to get the phone number and address of the nearest emergency veterinary clinic. It's good to have this type of information on hand just incase. If you are going away this is information you need to give to whomever may be taking care of your pets. If you are in need of a pet sitter or walker- you better arrange this ASAP because often they book up early.

Hope everyone has a safe and happy Holiday Season.

Salon time: How often should a cat be shampooed?

2009-11-14T11:15:00.004-05:00

Tracie Hotchner, author of The Cat Bible states the following about cat grooming - thought I would share.

"In addition to rinsing with warm water regularly, a shampoo twice a month can really reduce the number of allergens on your cat. Use only lukewarm water (hot water can be counter-productive and stimulate more dander production) and a mild cat shampoo. Some of the cat shampoos on the market are even soap-free. Bathing every other week will condition the skin and hair while removing dander and saliva. Keep the water flow warm and gentle and eventually your furry friend may even look forward to bath time!"

At Cause to Paws we carry Bobbi Panter's line of shampoos.

All her Shampoos are SALT FREE. They do not use sodium chloride to thicken their product which is basically table salt and drying to skin, fur and eyes. No salt means no cheap filler, faster rinse time, faster drying time and all of the essential oils they use can actually penetrate the skin and fur!

The Ph is balanced to match the eyes.

It's CONCENTRATED "For 50% MORE WASHES PER BOTTLE". Although all her shampoos are safe for cats - we recently have added a cat specific version called Shaggy Cat.

Shaggy Cat Shampoo - is two products in one. A natural shampoo and conditioner that smoothes and detangles with Vitamin E, Jojoba Oil and Aloe Vera Gel. Shaggy Cat reduces shedding, dander and matting. Two products in one! Check it out.

Traveling? Need a pet sitter?

2009-11-10T15:52:00.004-05:00

The Holidays are coming soon. Are you traveling? It can be stressful. If you have a pet that needs taking care of while you are gone can only add to the stress - especially if you need to find a pet sitter.

How do you find one?

It's easy if you have done this before but if it is the first time here are some ideas.

First you might consider starting with a friend, a very good friend! You might consider neighbor. If they can't help at least they may know who to refer you to. Ask for recommendations from your veterinarian, humane society or dog trainer. Even a Pet Boutique like ours, Cause to Paws, have a number of Dog Walkers and Dog and Cat sitters that we feel comfortable recommending

Make sure your chosen pet sitter is affiliated with a professional pet sitting organization or has solid references - don't be afraid to ask. Insurance is important as well, in case there are only problems. Once you have made a list of trustworthy and reliable sitters in your area, the next step is to call and interview candidates over the phone or even better yet in person. See how your pet reacts to them and vice a versa. Ask what they charge, how long the visits are, if they are bonded and insured, and if they have any special skills or veterinary experience.

When calling an agency, find out how many pet sitters they employ and their days of operation. Inquire whether they charge extra during the holidays.

Some sitters will take the dog or cat into their home. Others may want to stay at your home overnight so that the dog is in it's own surroundings.

Good quality pet sitters book up early so you need to consider finding one right now otherwise your travel plans may not happen.

Howl-O-Ween Dos and Don'ts

2009-10-24T10:40:00.003-04:00

Here's hoping that you and your dog have a happy fun - and importantly - a safe Halloween. With a little preparation this should not be a problem.

Make sure to keep your Halloween decorations just out of reach. Cats especially love electrical cords. Pets are curious, anything that is shiny, crinkly twinkling is attention getting. Motion decorations can be hard to resist - but can also be scary for some dogs. I know that Kanji will definitely bark at any moving figures - it scars him (which I guess is the intention of those type of decorations.

Keep Halloween candy away from pets. Especially chocolate which is toxic to dogs and cats. Gum and candy with xylitol, an artificial sweetener, is known to be deadly. To be safe make sure you have treats for the pets around.

Candles in pumpkins can lead curious cats into dangerous situations - so maybe these are not such a good idea to have around. Teenagers can be especially cruel to animals during this time - acting out as pranksters or doing their devilish things. Don't leave your pet outside unsupervised (which is a good thing to do all year round), - better not to take any chances.

Every time the door bell rings Kanji goes ballistic - he is assuming someone is coming to visit him and he gets so excited. On Halloween you usually have a constantly ringing doorbell and a parade of strange costumed individuals. This can be overwhelming for some dogs and you may want to consider putting them in a room far away from the mayhem which might be happening. Give them a chew bone or a toy to try and distract them. If they get too stressed consider things like Happy Traveler or Rescue Remedy - natural remedies to relieve stress - we carry both at Cause to Paws.

If you are trick or treating with your dog (with or without a costume!) make sure they wear their collars and ID tags.

Have a Happy (and safe) Howl-O-Ween.

Shocking news: Electrical and phone cords are ticking time bombs

2009-10-10T12:37:00.005-04:00

"Until you add a cat to your life you won't have realized how many cords there are in the average house. From curtain cords to lamps, computers, kitchen appliances, telephones, hair dryers or irons, they're everywhere. While cats all like to play with cords, kittens are especially vulnerable because they play with things by putting them in their mouth. If a kitten chews an electrical cord she can get burned or cause a house fire. If she gets tangled up in window blind cords she can get trapped and strangle. Make sure to always keep all types of household cords out of the reach of your little kitties."

by Tracie Hotchner, author of The Cat Bible

At Cause to Paws we often have customers come in and tell us how their cats are eating their computer wires - not realizing that cats like to chew. We have sold them little rubber bones, cat coils and even 3" bully sticks to help with their chewing needs. There are also lots of dangling teaser type cat toys which can take the place of the cords. Cats need to have play and interaction time, so it is important to have things available for them to play with, alone or with you. Our cat section is quite extensive to try and cover all these needs. We are constantly looking for new things to keep the cat busy - so they will avoid the household items.

Fling-Ama-String™…if cats had money, they'd buy one! Fling-Ama-String™ hangs on any standard door knob. It is battery-operated. One side of a long string is sewn to a flat elastic "conveyer belt' which is constantly rotating. The string flings in and out for kitty’s non-stop amusement. The toy has 2 speeds to satisfy the frisky or faint feline. Batteries not included.

Pull tips: Is your dog a puller?

2009-09-02T16:12:00.006-04:00

Pull tips: Is your dog a puller?
by The canine experts at Dogster.com

"If your dog is a puller, don't let him pull you! As he attempts to pull you, don't let your arm extend all the way out, which is enabling him to pull. Keep your elbow bent and tucked in, and when he starts to pull, don't let the elbow straighten and pull back. If this is done enough times, it should help... it may not eliminate the pulling, but the dog will not pull as hard."

We work with a number of trainers and most of them highly recommend Premiers Easy Walk Harness for dogs that pull - from the Petite to Xlarge and every size in between. Lots of great feedback and I have seen it work miracles. It sort of looks like a martingale for the chest - as the dog pulls, you correct by pulling back which causes the harness to close and allows you to "steer" the dog - easily turning them left or right - getting them back on track in terms of walking beside you.

Another thing I like about them is even if your dog finds a way to chew the harness the company will replace it for the cost of shipping - (rumour has it it is usually because we, as owners, leave the harness in some tempting location and the dog sees it as a chew toy!). I have become quite the expert at fitting dogs. I have learned that there are some dog shapes that are not conducive to the harness so coming in for a fitting can be helpful.

And for even better news - the company now offers the harnesses made from recycled materials, in very green packaging. Every little bit helps the earth out.

If you need help in training - we can help out with some names in addition to the harnesses.

I'm Back and So is Kanji and Summer

2009-08-18T12:11:00.004-04:00

Had a great week off in Michigan with good friends. Had my dog fix by going to a parade in Northport, MI - dubbed the Kentucky Dogby. Lots of dogs with little saddles and "jockeys" on their backs and others with roses around their necks. For a small town in northern Michigan they put on quite a shindig - their local celebrity turned out to march as well - Mario Batali - a great chef - wonder if he cooks for his dog(s)?

It was obvious when I went to pick up Kanji he was ready to come home and rest. He ran right to the car and wanted to get in (made me feel good!). I know he had a great time while he was at "summer camp" but I think he was exhausted from all the activity - he is not use to that much fun - 24/7 .

It is a scorcher out there today - Summer has decided to arrive in August - so make sure you continue to keep your pets hydrated and cool. It's a real hot one today. Make sure you keep your dog cool - Forget about leaving the dog in the car and cracking the window - check out http://www.mydogiscool.com/ for lots of great information.

Off on Vacation - Leaving Kanji Behind

2009-08-06T12:07:00.003-04:00

I am off for a much needed vacation but I am depressed that I have to leave Kanji behind. The good news is he is staying with friends - whom he loves very much. He is basically going to summer camp. It's great to have a trusted friend with a great location (3 acres all surrounded by water). Kanji is free to run around with their Chocolate Lab - Woody basically 24/7.

Not everyone can be this lucky. If you need to leave your pet behind there are various options available - Kennels, Vets, Pet Sitters (in your home or theirs), Pet Hotels, etc. Whatever you do it is important to make sure you get references and check the places out. We have a lot of people coming into the store offering services - we tell them unless we have experience with them or know of customers that use them we can not really recommend them. We do have a list of "trusted" sitters, walkers, and places we feel comfortable recommending.

Whatever you do make sure you provide your pet with some comforts of home - their toys, bed, blankets, food, treats - and things with your scent on them. And when you come back make sure you bring them a special treat or toy so they know you were thinking about them while you were gone.

Feel free to come in and talk about your needs - we would love to help you out.

Squirt Bottles may be the answer

2009-07-16T11:53:00.002-04:00

Squirt control: A bottle of water can break up a dog fight
by B.L. Ochman, Blogger, Pawfun.com

Always carry a bottle of water to the dog park or run. You can often break up a fight by squirting the two dogs. They'll stop long enough for you to pull your dog out of harm's way. It also works when dogs get nuts while playing and need a quick time out to keep the play from escalating.

Just came across this tip from Dogster - I was at a meeting of liaisons from the Green Dog Program in Brookline (an off leash program sponsored by the town) last night and a lot of the conversation had to do with aggressive dog behavior and what to do to help control the dogs. One person suggested Mace and the whole group erupted in rage with the consensus being to use a water bottle to squirt the dog - the shock factor does the job. Then today I found this tip and thought it was a good one to share with everyone. Hopefully you don't run into a lot of aggressive dogs - but just in case. If you have an aggressive dog this may just be the answer for you.

Hot weather tips from The Animal Rescue League

2009-07-09T16:43:00.002-04:00

In addition to making sure you keep your dog well hydrated in warm/hot weather here are some additional tips I found on the Animal Rescue League site - check it out and keep your pets safe!

Never leave your dog in the car even with the windows cracked. Although it may seem cool outside, the temperature inside your car can easily rise as high as 150 degrees in a matter of minutes. If you’re planning to run a few errands, it’s best to leave the pets at home.
Make a point of keeping your pet on a leash to ensure that they don’t get lost and/or ingest anything that could make them sick.

If your pet has light skin or hair, apply sunscreen to the animal’s ears and nose and allow them to rest in a shady spot regularly.

Hot weather may encourage pets to drink from puddles, so be sure that your driveway and yard are free of any potential toxins. After a heavy rain, fertilizer, weed killer and other common lawn chemicals can contaminate puddles, and antifreeze poses specific hazards due to its sweet taste. Even small doses of these chemicals can be fatal. Puddles can also contain deadly bacteria called leptospirosis.

Check your pet for insect stings and bites. Typically the affected area will be swollen, but take note of any other symptoms and monitor them. If the animal seems especially uncomfortable or if the swelling is excessive, consult your veterinarian to ensure that your pet isn’t having an allergic reaction.

Have fun but be careful on the 4th - Take care of the Dogs

2009-06-26T17:01:00.004-04:00

We recently held a seminar presented by Vera Wilkinson on helping dogs who have issues with Fireworks, Thunder and Lightening. The 4th of July is right around the corner and it is the day that many dog owners fear. I recently came across a great write up that can help you (and your dog) better cope with the Firework issues. It's the biggest day for dogs to run away - the loud noises puts a lot of stress on some dogs.

I suggest that you check out the full article which provides lots of tips and ideas to keep them safe - especially if you're not going to be home with them.

http://www.dogtipper.com/tip/2009/06/keeping-your-dogs-safe-secure-on-july.html.

Summer is coming - Keep your dog well hydrated

2009-06-17T14:07:00.005-04:00

Take it slow.

It is important for your dog to get daily exercise. But in the Summer you have to be very careful about the weather. Summer heat and dogs are not necessarily a good mix. Dogs aren't that efficient in cooling themselves. The dogs only option is panting and sweating through their paw pads. If you can, try taking your dog out in the early morning or evening when temperatures are cooler. Like people, dogs can suffer from heatstroke, so make sure your dog is not overwhelmed on hot days. Try starting with slower, shorter walks and gradually increase according to your pet's ability and health. Older dogs, along with dogs with short, pushed in faces, like Pugs, Bull dogs, Boxers and those dogs with dark coats, have a higher risk of suffering from heat stroke.

What else can you do?
It's also important to keep your dog hydrated. Bring plenty of water. There are lots of portable bowls and other water carrying approaches you can get to make this easier for you and your dog. It's good to be prepared. At Cause to Paws we carry a variety of options, one is sure to meet your needs (and your dogs)

MSPCA Walk for Animals

2009-06-10T13:57:00.004-04:00

MSPCA-Angell Walk for Animals Sunday, September 13, 2009

Kanji and I will be participating in this years Boston MSPCA Walk. Help us AND the animals by going to http://www.mspca.org/goto/causetopaws

and donating to this great cause. Or you might want to consider starting your own team and joining us in the walk.

Fireworks and Dogs don't mix

2009-06-05T15:36:00.004-04:00

If you're thinking of taking your dog outside to watch the fireworks on the 4th of July...think again.

Your dogs hearing is 10 times more sensitive then yours. Imagine the effect fireworks could have on the dog - increased anxiety, stress and fear. Not just the noise but the flashes and light can effect them as well. The same can be said for lightening and thunderstorms. My dogs react to both and it's not a pretty sight. Summer time is an especially bad for these types of events. You should be careful and know what to do to help them.

We will be having a lecture on Sunday, June 14th from 3-4 PM, at Cause to Paws. Presented by Vera Wilkinson, a certified dog behavior consultant and professional dog trainer , from The Cooperative Dog. She will provide some ideas and tips on things you can do ahead of time to prevent anxiety as well on the spot ways to calm a nervous pooch. Hope to see you there.

Fetch - Frisbee, Why? - Fun!

2009-05-26T14:07:00.011-04:00

I am back from visiting my mother in Florida - where I am known as the Rain Queen. Seems it hadn't rained in 7 weeks and then I show up and it rained for 7 days straight. Good thing I didn't bring Kanji with me - rain and wet are not his favorite things. His stay at "summer camp" was great - good food (I think he gained weight - but so did I so I can not point that out to him) and lots of outdoor fun ( a lot more then was available to me). As with most dogs - Fetch - is his favorite game. Not sure the point of it but that doesn't seem to stop Kanji and his pal Woodie from wanting to be outside doing it 24/7. Which then brings up the question - What's the best thing to use for Fetching?

Most dogs do fine playing fetch with tennis balls. But, like all things in life, tennis balls have risks. Some dogs may actually swallow tennis balls whole, leading to intestinal obstruction. And, although tennis balls are generally durable, they occasionally come unravelled. Some dogs have a knack for breaking apart tennis balls and swallowing the pieces–leading to intestinal obstruction. Another common problem with tennis balls is possible damage to the teeth. Tennis balls are highly abrasive. Dogs that chew or grind excessively on tennis balls may suffer severe dental wear. The wear most often occurs on the canine teeth (fangs) and the teeth directly behind them. Neither Kanji or his pal Woody appear to be excessive chewers while they play fetch but a less abrasive option is a rubber ball. A warning about rubber balls, they may be less durable than tennis balls and some can deflate and dogs may swallow them and suffer intestinal obstructions.

Other Fetchable items include Frisbees and sticks (real or rubber). But is playing Frisbee safe? Although acrobatic leaps for frisbees may lead to injured knees, the running involved in fetching and frisbee catching helps to keep dogs fit, muscular and lean. And don’t forget that playing fetch or frisbee is fun. Having fun is part of the reason why people have dogs. Intense physical activity carries certain risks for dogs. But we all face risks every day. In most cases, the benefits of activities such as fetching or catching frisbees outweigh the risks.

Nothing in life is without risks so make sure you know your dogs habits and likes/dislikes.

At Cause to Paws we carry a variety of options in terms of balls, sticks and frisbees - soft, hard, rubber, fabric, floatable, recycled/recyclable, with and without squeakers - to make sure we have your dog covered.

Kanji is off to "Summer Camp"

2009-05-15T11:19:00.004-04:00

I am going to visit my mother in Florida for about a week and leaving Kanji behind. This is always a tough decision with me - to bring him or not. My mothers condo complex allows dogs but now seems to enforcing the rule that it only allows dogs that live there full time - no visiting dogs. It's causing some issues that I don't want to exacerbate so I will be leaving him behind this time around. I will miss him but I am not sure he will be missing me.

He is probably thrilled because he is going to "Summer Camp"! - Well not really, but he is going to be staying with friends in Holliston who live on the "acreage" - basically a little island surrounded by water - where he can run free and be "abused" by their 2 year old chocolate lab. Well not really abused - more like molested. For some reason their dog is enamored by my little fluffy guy - can't get enough of his smell and seems to be drooling over him constantly. Kanji plays a lot of run away. Outside there is no problem but inside it is definitely a game of hide and seek. Either way he is basically in doggy heaven. My friends love him and the feeling is definitely mutual. Usually Kanji wants to follow me everywhere but when he is with them I don't exist - so I don't feel guilty leaving him behind with the molester. They feed him things I won't and play with him a lot more than I can - and despite the fact their dog is a molester, he has a full time playmate - what more can you ask for.

So I am off to Florida for a week, guilt free knowing my dog is well taken care of happy to be away from me for awhile, away from the store and at summer camp.

Later

So you think dogs can eat chocolate - Think again!

2009-05-13T15:27:00.006-04:00

You should never intentionally feed your dog chocolate. But sometimes our 4 legged friends get into things they shouldn't - off our counters or out of our bags. Then what do you do?

If the unfortunate happens it's good to know how much is too much. There is a chocolate chart from National Geographic that can help you determine your dog's danger zone - requiring a trip to the vet or worse the ER. Using the cursor you can match your dog's weight in pounds (or kilograms), to the amount and type of chocolate to see the dangerous effects - everything from vomiting and diarrhea to death. For emergency reference purposes, be sure to bookmark this chart. And always be conscious of keeping chocolate out of your dog's reach.

Chocolate contains chemical substances from the same family as caffeine - the main problem chemical is theobromine. At Cause to Paws all of our bakery treats that look like they contain chocolate are actually made with carob - a safe alternative to chocolate. Carob is a legume that comes from the carob tree. In addition to not having the negative effects of chocolate, carob is very nutritious.

Just an FYI - Carob contains as much Vitamin B1 as asparagus or strawberries; as much niacin as lima beans, lentils, or peas; and more Vitamin A than eggplant, asparagus, and beets. It also contains Vitamin B2, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and the trace minerals iron, manganese, chromium, copper, and nickel. It contains approximately 8 percent protein and is a good source of fiber. Compared to chocolate, carob is three times richer in calcium, has one third less calories and seventeen times less fat. Carob also has therapeutic uses. It is known to halt serious cases of diarrhea in adults, infants, and animals.

I stop to smell the lilacs - and the dogs eat grass!

2009-05-12T13:40:00.008-04:00

The store is closed on Mondays - and it was such a beautiful day that I took the dogs to the Arboretum in Jamaica Plain so I could see/smell the Lilacs which are usually in full bloom around Mothers Day. Well they were magnificent - should have brought the camera. The dogs could not get enough of the park - the problem was all they wanted to do was stop and eat the grass. This happens every Spring - they seem to go after the newly growing grass and flower tips. Then inevitably they throw up. What gives? Why do dogs eat grass? Lot's of opinions out there.

“This is one of the most common questions I get from dog owners,” explained Dr. Michael Levine, DVM, who added, “Sometimes, it’s an indication of something else, like an upset stomach or a diet low in fiber, but it can also be due to something more simple – some dogs simply enjoy the taste of grass.”Read more: "Why is My Dog Eating Grass? Causes for a Canine’s Urge to Eat Grass Suite101.com" - http://dogs.suite101.com/article.cfm/why_is_my_dog_eating_grass#ixzz0FJcDeAey&A

On http://www.wisegeek.com/ - they say " Some dogs take a few nibbles (that is what Kanji does), while others eat quickly, barely chewing the grass (that's what Decia does). Unchewed grass often translates to near instant vomiting. Dogs that are careful grazers, on the other hand, may not get sick from grass. The latter case suggests that some dogs eat grass because they enjoy it.(I think that's Kanji). Most dogs don’t need it to supplement their diets, but because dog diets are primarily made up of herbivores, that grassy taste may be reminiscent of the cattle or lamb product they had for dinner.

Veterinarians still aren't sure if dogs eat grass because their stomachs are upset or if their stomachs get upset after they eat grass. However, many vets suspect it's the former, because dogs who are energetic and perky seem to be able to eat grass without getting sick afterward. It seems likely that there's something in grass that does stimulate the urge to vomit. Often this is the case with Kanji - is he Bulimic?

Bottom line: In any case, grass eating is basically a normal behavior, and is not of concern unless your dog does it excessively. It does make walking the dogs in the park a little difficult - but now the arboretum doesn't need to be mowed today!

Peanut Butter Carrot Cake

2009-05-09T11:58:00.003-04:00

I wanted to make some special treats for a store event and found a great recipe for a Peanut Butter Carrot Cake - I made it as a cake the first time but since then I use mini cup cake holders and make bite size (one bite for the big dogs/a few bites for the smaller ones!). My customers keep asking me to sell these in addition to the bakery cookies I have in the treat case - but that's a whole other issue to deal with and I will leave that up to the professionals!

Recipe:
1 cup flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/4 cup peanut butter
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 cup shredded carrots
1 tsp. vanilla
1/3 cup honey
1 egg
Mix flour and baking soda. Add remaining ingredients. Pour into greased 8" round cake pan and bake at 350° for 30 minutes. Let cool. You can frost them or just leave them as is - I don't think the dogs care - they seem to love them either way.

Frosting: Puree cottage cheese in blender for icing (I sometimes add a little peanut butter to this - or you can add food coloring to make it more festive. Decorate with more peanut butter and carrots.

An alternative frosting: Cream Cheese Dog Treat Frosting
12 ounces nonfat cream cheese, room temperature2 teaspoons honey Directions: Beat with a hand mixer until fluffy. Frost cupcakes with a spatula or pipe using a pastry bag with a fine tip.

Kitten Necessities

2009-05-08T11:40:00.004-04:00

Here's a quick list of necessities you should have on hand when getting a new kitten.

1. Kitten Specific Food
2. Litter box, scoop, litter (scented or unscented? some cats/kittens are highly sensitive to smells - where others don't mind - you may need to try several types before you find the right one). Placement is important - PUT IT WHERE THEY CAN FIND IT! otherwise????????
3. Kitten size bowls
4. Scratching Post - (the couch does not count!)
5. Kitten safe toys - wands, stuffed mice, crinkle balls....Kittens don't respond to catnip until they are 3 - 6 months old - it will do no harm but don't expect a reaction (and some cats don't have the gene to begin with and never respond - so don't worry if your cat is not a druggy).
6. Grooming brush and wipes - the more you groom the less your house will be covered - plus it's a good way to bond with your new acquisition.
7. Collar and tag - Breakaway, breakaway, breakaway - you don't want your cat to get HUNG up.
8. Cat bed or snuggle sack
9. Cat Carrier - get them use to this early so trips to the vet are not so traumatic.
10. Cat Tree/Condo - assuming you have room to put this - let them climb on this and not your curtains.

Other than food - we can help you out. Although not a cat owner I have learned a lot from our cat customers and continue to expand our cat offerings. Now if we can just find a bakery that will make decorated cat treats - we will be all set.

Smokers Likely to Quit for Pet's Health

2009-05-07T11:29:00.005-04:00

Another great reason to stop smoking - your pet - it's bad for their health , too.

In a study at Henry Ford Health System in Detroit, 28.4% of smokers said they were now motivated to stop because of the danger to their pets health - well it should be 100%. Just like for people, exposure to secondhand smoke has been linked to cancer, allergies, eye and skin diseases in dogs and cats.

Enough preaching for today - but pass it on.

It's me or Kanji and Kanji wins!

2009-05-06T11:25:00.005-04:00

Came across this and had to share - since it is spot on - I need my hair cut and colored but Kanji needs to go to the groomer - only can afford one of us and guess who wins out!

Top ten reasons why it costs more to get your pet groomed then your own hair cut

10. Your hairdresser doesn't wash and clean your rear end.
9. You don't go eight weeks without washing or brushing your hair.
8. Your hairdresser doesn't give you a sanitary trim.
7. Your hairdresser doesn't clean your ears.
6. Your hairdresser doesn't remove the boogies from your eyes.
5. You sit still for your hairdresser.
4. Your haircut doesn't include a manicure or pedicure.
3. Your hairdresser only washes and cuts the hair on your head.
2. You don't bite or scratch your hairdresser.
1. The likelihood of you pooping on the hairdresser is pretty slim.

There's only one first time for everything!

2009-05-05T15:06:00.007-04:00

First Facebook and now a Blog!

It is almost Four years since Cause to Paws doors opened. I decided it was about time to start blogging (is that really a word?). The intent of this blog will be to share Fun, Frivolous, inFormative and Functional Facts about our Furry Friends and yours.

10 green cat and dog tips ( I agree with these except for the one that says "Instead of buying plastic poop bags, reuse plastic bags from the grocery store to pick up dog waste." We believe in using Biodegradable poop bags for dog waste and sell a variety of options - scented, unscented, rolls with cores, coreless, cornstarch versions, ones shaped like mits.............

Looking Forward to Future sharing