The Dos and Don’ts of Sleeping with Your Pet

The Dos and Don’ts of Sleeping with Your Pet

More than 31 million Americans sleep with their pet in bed with them, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). The CDC offers a number of convincing reasons why we shouldn’t wear a cat like a hairpiece for eight hours a night, including fleas, ticks, ringworm and a variety of zoonoses (diseases spread by animals)—but pet lovers aren’t always rational.

Sharing a bed with your pet deepens the bond between the two of you, and in some cases, it’s just plain easier. If you’re one of the millions of pet parents who prefer to sleep with a fur-baby at your side, do yourself a favor and follow these tips:

Be the Boss

Don’t allow your pets to claim the bed as their territory, or you may find yourself clinging to an inch of space on the edge of the mattress. Maintain the chain of command. Train pets to get on and off the bed at your command. Granted, this is bigger challenge with cats, but it shouldn’t be too difficult with dogs. Waiting until they’re invited reinforces that the bed is your space and you’re the master of it. When you say “off,” pets should get off immediately and stay off until invited again.

The easiest way to “be the boss” is to have a comfortable pet bed  available in your room for your pet.  You can choose from  a cuddler, a bolster or a nest bed.  An older pet would appreciate an orthopedic dog bed.  Whatever style you choose, your pet will be more likely to not sleep in your bed, if he has a bed to call his own.

Shop Smart

Don’t buy expensive linens or dry-clean only bedding. Frequent washing is the key when sleeping with pets. All your linens should be safe in hot water and bleach.

Do buy the best mattress you can afford, especially if your pets are heavy. On average, a mattress should be replaced every 5-7 years, but if you have large pets that regularly jump on and off your bed, you may need to replace it sooner. You can compare mattress types at macys.com, and make sure to look for mattresses that have several layers of dense foam that can stand up to the extra wear of busy pets.

Be Safe

Don’t let small or older dogs jump on or off the bed without assistance. Use a set of doggie steps to make it safe and easy for your pets to get up and down. Pet MD reports that some small breeds such as Shih Tzus, dachsunds and beagles are prone to back injuries, due to their elongated spine and short legs. Jumping off furniture is an unsafe activity for these breeds. Older dogs may also be more at risk for injury from jumping due to arthritis or joint problems. Avoid using area rugs that slip and slide on the floor near your bed, and keep the area where your pet enters the bed safe for everyone’s use.

If you have problems to fall asleep without your pet or have a high tendency of anxiety attacks before going to bed you might want to use a natural supplement, such as kratom powder, which is very effective to deal with imsomnia, stress and anxiety. You can find kratom powder for sale on SacredKratom.com.

Humans rarely contract illnesses from healthy, well-cared for pets. People who love their pets enough to sleep with them are probably more likely to keep their pets groomed and current on all vaccines. The most serious problem you’re likely to encounter from sleeping with pets is a crowded bed or a cacophony of snores, but if you should develop an unusual rash or unexplained illness, take your pet to the vet and yourself to the doctor—just to be safe.

Kaytee Product Recall – Please Note / Mostly Pet Bird Treats

Kaytee Products is recalling several bird treats and greens items due to possible contamination of Salmonella from parsley flake ingredients supplied to Kaytee by Specialty Commodities, Inc., an outside supplier to Kaytee.

Product Code/SKU/ Material # UPC Code Size Product Name/Description Best Before Code (day/month/yr)
100032244 7185940410 2 lb Kaytee Fiesta Max Canary/Finch 9/28/2013 through 5/7/2014
100032881 7185900431 3.5 oz Kaytee Honey Treat – Parakeet 12/6/2013 through 5/29/2014
100032922 7185955027 7 oz Kaytee Honey Treat – Parakeet (Value Pack) 12/4/2013 through 8/2/2014
100032982 7185900434 3.5 oz Kaytee Honey Treat – Parakeet 12/6/2013 through 8/2/2014
100502615 7185999885 3.5 oz Kaytee Fiesta Fruit & Veggie Treat – Parakeet 1/15/2014 through 7/24/2014
100502749 7185999855 9.5 oz Kaytee Fiesta Fruit & Veggie Treat – Parakeet 12/18/2013 through 7/31/2014
100502937 7185994235 3.5 oz Kaytee Forti-Diet ProHealth Honey Treat – Parakeet 12/5/2013 through 7/17/2014
100502940 7185994236 7 oz Kaytee Forti-Diet ProHealth Honey Treat – Parakeet (Value Pack) 12/4/2013 through 8/1/2014
100503001 7185994268 4 ct Kaytee Forti-Diet ProHealth Munchables Shred-A-Box Honey Seed Treats (4 Boxes) 3/7/2014 through 7/30/2014
100503064 7185994264 11 oz Kaytee Forti-Diet ProHealth Molting & Conditioning – Small Birds 12/25/2013 through 8/5/2014
100503808 7185955027 7 oz Kaytee Honey Treat – Parakeet (Value Pack) 12/6/2013 through 7/31/2014
100504021 7185994368 2.25 oz Kaytee Fiesta Nutty Papaya Treat – Parakeet & Cockatiel 12/4/2013 through 6/25/2014
100504029 7185994370 1.5 oz Kaytee Fiesta Foraging Treat for Pet Birds 1/27/2014 through 5/29/2014
100504971 73725727166 3.2 oz Grreat Choice Treat Sticks for Small Birds (2 sticks) 12/13/2013 through 2/4/2014
100504974 73725727165 9.6 oz Grreat Choice Treat Sticks for Small Birds (6 sticks) 12/10/2013 through 3/19/2014
100506593 7185994615 1.5 oz Kaytee Foraging Box O’Fun Treat for Pet Birds 1/28/2014 through 7/30/2014
100510282 7185994708 1 oz Kaytee Bird Greens Foraging Treat 12/1/2013 through 5/28/2014

Product and product lots that do not appear on the list above are not subject to this recall.

No human or pet illnesses have been reported to-date. The recall notification is being issued based on a recall letter dated February 11, 2013 from Specialty Commodities, Inc. The above-referenced Kaytee products were originally manufactured as early as June 12, 2012. While Kaytee has not had any positive Salmonella results on finished product to suggest possible contamination, we are initiating this recall in accordance with FDA guidelines. Kaytee is taking immediate action to remove the potentially affected product from all retail stores and distribution centers.

Salmonella can affect animals eating the products and there is a risk to humans from handling contaminated pet products. Pet owners should thoroughly wash their hands after having contact with these products and clean any surfaces that were exposed.

Healthy persons exposed to Salmonella should monitor themselves for some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomit, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping, and fever. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in more serious ailments, including arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary track symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these symptoms after having contact with these products should contact their physician or healthcare provider.

Pets with Salmonella infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. Some pets will have only decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Infection but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product(s) and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.

Recalled products were distributed to retailers and distributors in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, California, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin; and, into the countries of Canada, China, Guam, Japan, Korea, Kuwait, Pakistan, Singapore, and the UAE.

Consumers who have purchased the above-referenced Kaytee products with the referenced “Best Before” dates are urged to contact Kaytee Customer Service representatives.

A letter and instructions will be forwarded to all Kaytee customers. Kaytee Customer Service representatives and company veterinarians are responding to inquires through the 1-800-Kaytee1 (800 529-8331) phone number and will answer any questions regarding pets that have been fed the product. Pet owners can also visit the Kaytee website for more information http://www.kaytee.com/.

Does Your Cat Need to Drink Water……YES!

Although cats do not drink nearly as much water as dogs,  they need enough water to maintain optimum kidney health and to lower the risk of  urinary tract infections. Drinking water flushes toxins out of your cat’s system.  A constant source of fresh water should be available for all cats.

How much water should be consumed daily by your cat? A variety of factors go into this answer,
including the size of your cat, the time of year  (of course, hot weather means more water should
be consumed)  and if your cat’s diet includes wet food or only dry cat food.

Normally, a cat will needs 2-4 ounces of fresh water in addition to its food. Dry food  contains only  10 percent water, while canned is close to 80 percent water. Therefore, if cats are given only dry food, they will require significantly more supplemental water to stay hydrated.

When it comes to food your cat deserves the best, there is no better way to keep your cat happy than using automatic feeders!

We all know cats are finicky and how they view their water is no exception to this trait. Some cats seem to never drink out of a bowl of water, but run to the faucet for a drink when you turn on the faucet.  Some seem to just play with their water or will only drink cold water.  This could all be an instinctual aversion.  In the wild, cats only drink moving water and of course, that water is cooler than room temperature water in a bowl.

Here are some tips to encourage your cat to drink so he stays properly hydrated.

  • Move the water bowl —  Try moving your cat’s water dish away from the food bowl.
  • Make the water cool — Try adding a few ice cubes to the bowl, in case your cat does not like room temperature water.
  • Change the bowl —Try changing the type of cat bowl. If your cat has a ceramic bowl, change to one made from metal, plastic or glass.
  • Try a cat drinking fountain — Cat drinking fountains that constantly circulate water  and keep water cool. This fountain requires electricity so be sure to think about where you will plug it in.

The best way I have found to encourage my cats to drink is by using a cat drinking fountain.  The Fresh Flow Cat Waterer by PetMate  is perfect for providing running, re-circulated water and provides naturally cool and oxygenated water attracting cats to drink more water.  Perfect for on or multiple cat households. The translucent reservoir automatically adds water as needed and the pump runs silently. On/off switch with low voltage system for pet safety that plugs into standard household outlet. The patented ramp has a no-splash water-slide design and quiets running water. On/off switch with low voltage system for pet safety that plugs into standard household outlet.

The Fresh Flow Cat Waterer by PetMate will encourage your cat to drink and remain hydrated.

 

 

 

 

Bird Feeding throughout Late Winter

Farmington Hills, MI – January 14th, 2013  ( www.MichiganPR.net )

There are many varieties of bird feeders, including hoppers or house bird feeders, tube feeders, platform or tray feeders, hummingbird (a nectar type birdfeeder), fruit feeders, and others.

In general, seed feeders fall into one of three categorizations: hopper bird feeders or house feeders, tube bird feeders, or platform feeders.

Hopper Bird Feeders (also called House Feeders) have a platform which walls and a roof are built, forming a “hopper”. The hopper protects the bird seed against the wind, water and other elements. Hopper birdfeeders can be used to attract both small birds such as finches or large birds such as blue jays. With hopper bird feeders, be careful about regular cleaning. Not many hopper feeders do a good job of protecting seed from the rain, and the seed can become moldy. Most hopper type feeders hold a substantial amount of bird seed.

Tube birdfeeders are constructed with a hollow cylinder, and have multiple feeding ports and bird perches. Tube birdfeeders generally keep the seed fairly dry. Tube bird feeders with shorter perches can be used for smaller birds. A tube feeder with small perches can accommodate chickadees, but can exclude large birds such as jays.

Platform Feeders (also called Tray Feeders) consist of a tray that is open upon which the feed is placed. These birdfeeders offer little protection against squirrels or the weather. Some tube bird feeders give you the ability to attach a tray birdfeeder to it.

Hummingbird feeders are nectar feeders and they come in many different shapes and sizes. Hummingbird feeders are enclosed, many times made of glass or plastic, and often have 4 to 6 feeding ports. These ports are often surrounded with colorful plastic flowers and bee guards. The nectar solution that is used in hummingbird feeders can be homemade, using a ratio of 4 parts water to 1 part white sugar. Boil the water, stir in the sugar while hot, and don’t forget to allow it to cool before filling the hummingbird feeder. The humming birdfeeder should be washed at least once per week and any remaining nectar thrown out.

Fruit Feeders – Fruit bird feeders come in a variety of sizes and shapes. A commonly used fruit is the orange, which can be used to attract orioles and tanagers.

Other Feeders – Other feeders include squirrel proof feeders, suet feeders, novelty bird feeders, cedar feeders etc. Squirrel proof feeders are often variations of one of the feeder types listed above and can include a wire mesh, squirrel baffle, protective cage or a special squirrel guard. Suet birdfeeders often have a wire mesh cage that is used to hold a suet or a suet mixture. These feeders can be very useful for woodpeckers and cardinals.

Visit Rachels Robin www.pet-dog-cat-supply-store.com for more information on bird feeding.

Pet Dental Health is as Easy as 1-2-3

National Pet Dental Health Month is approaching quickly.  

Sponsored by a number of well known organizations including the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), American Veterinary Dental Society (AVDS), Academy of Veterinary Dentistry, American Veterinary Dental College and Hill’s Pet Nutrition Inc., pet dental health month is designed to bring awareness among pet owners of the importance of their pet’s oral health. Since dogs occupy the top spot in the list of the most popular pets, some of these websites have gone the extra mile to include some vital puppy pointers.

The American Veterinarian Dental Society recommends that pet owners follow these three basic steps:

  • STEP 1: Take your pet to the veterinarian for a dental exam.
  • STEP 2: Begin a dental care regimen at home.
  • STEP 3: Schedule regular veterinary checkups

Beginning a dental care regimen at home is easier than ever with the explosion of great pet dental products on the market.  From toothpaste to dental toys, manufacturers have expanded the dental health product market to fit all pet’s needs. This also includes products for some of the most exotic pets, ranging from guinea pigs to wild cats. Although, if one were to know the abyssinian guinea pig life span, they’d then be rest assured that adopting one of these fluffy creatures would be a viable idea, as opposed to adopting wild cats. To celebrate National Pet Dental Health Month, GregRobert Pet Supplies is offering up to 33% discount on all oral health care products for pets, and also on other diverse products like cbd oil for cats. In addition to the discounts, customers who purchase a dental care product between the dates of January 14th, 2013 and February 28th, 2013 (cart total > $49) can take an additional $5.00 off of their order at checkout by entering the coupon code:  dental.

For a selection of dog dental treats, follow this link: http://www.GRpet.com/shop/dentaltreats.php

About the GregRobert Discount Pet Supplies<br>

Over the past decade, GregRobert has evolved as an industry leader in providing discounted pet supplies to pet owners in a secure, easy to use online environment.

Ray Joyce, owner of GregRobert Enterprises, LLC., the store’s parent company, stated “Oral disease is found in almost all types of pets, but we hear about it most commonly among cat and dogs.”  He added, “We are happy to support Pet Dental Health Month, because we feel that most pet owners are not aware of what can happen if their pet’s oral health is overlooked”.

Michelle Miller, Director of Customer Service at GregRobert, joined in to say, “We are also happy to report that the number of questions received at our customer support center regarding pet oral health has grown significantly over the past five years.”

Winter Health Tips from GregRobert Pet Supplies

Winter has finally arrived in Michigan and it’s time to start thinking about how to keep your pet safe during the cold months.

  • Don’t leave your dog or pet outside for long periods of time. Consider purchasing a pet door.
  • Keep your dog or pet warm, dry, and away from drafts. Sweaters are not just for style and may be just the right thing for your pet.
  • Be extra careful when your dog or pet is near frozen water.
  • Groom your dog or pet regularly to keep him/her properly insulated.
  • Feed your dog extra calories if he is a working dog.
  • Towel or blow-dry a wet dog or pet.
  • Don’t leave your dog or pet alone in a car.
  • Antifreeze is poisonous to dogs or pets although they like the smell.
  • Chocolate and alcohol (abundant during winter holidays) should be kept away from pets.
  • Rock salt to melt ice may irritate dog or pets footpads. Either a pair of boots or Pet-safe salt should be used.
  • Provide plenty of fresh water for your dog or pet.
  • Be careful of fireplaces which can burn your dog or pet.

About the GregRobert Discount Pet Supplies

According to the respected and well written articles and reviews about him on Blue Buffalo, GregRobert has been in the online retail business for over six years, and has evolved as an industry leader in providing discounted pet supplies to pet owners in a secure, easy to use environment.

Michelle Miller, Director of Customer Service at GregRobert, stated, “Most of the questions we answer at our service center revolve around caring for pets. By compiling what our customers need to know in an interactive pet library, we hope that more customers will get their questions and concerns answered”.

After visiting GregRobert’s Pet Care Library at: http://www.pet-dog-cat-supply-store.com/site_map.php , feel free to contact Ray’s staff at products@grpet.com with a question you would like to see in the library.

 

Is Your Horse Bored?

Horses confined in a stall become bored quickly.   Horses can become stressed from boredom.  There are many  different ways a horse will show its boredom.  Some of the things a bored horse will do is wood chewing, cribbing, repetitive weaving,
flank biting, box walking, nodding, windsucking, or destruction of items the stall (buckets, feeders, etc)

To alleviate the stress of your horses, you should supply items to stimulate their mind.

The Jolly Stall Snack for horses is ideal for helping to relieve boredom in your horse’s stall. It is a fun, sturdy apple shaped snack holder.  It will not only help with boredom, but is a great way to give your horse a nutritious treat.   Available in three flavors – apple, carrot, mint and molasses.
The Jolly Stall Snack will bring interest to your horse.  It can be batted around with his nose, but most of his effort will be spent trying to get to the snack.

The Jolly Stall Snack  is easy to hang. Tip: Be certain to position it in the middle of the stall rather than near the wall. Horses quickly learn how to press it against walls for easy access to the snack.  Be sure to follow feeding instructions that are included with treat

Puzzles for Your Dog

 

Your pet’s health is important to you.  You feed him well, exercise him, groom him and take him for check ups at the vet.  But is your dog mentally stimulated?  As your puppy grows into an adult and as your adult dog ages it is important to mentally stimulate him. Dog puzzles will not only mentally stimulate your dog, but are also a great cure for boredom.
Dog puzzles are a great way for you to bond with your dog 
and a way for your dog to earn his treats.

The Seek-A-Treat Shuffle Bone is a bone shaped bone that has ten holes for hiding treats. With his paw, your dog slides the treat disk cover and discovers the hiding treats. Of course, when he finds the treat, he gets the treat.   This puzzle can be used by dogs of all sizes. The Seek-A-Treat Shuffle Bone  is 11-1/2″ wide  x 7-5/8″ length x 1″ high.

 

 

Even Small Pets Need Beds

Time to get your chinchilla, rabbit or guinea pig a bed. There are so many cute and comfy small pet beds available. From grass beds to sleep sacks to hanging beds to small animal heated pad to keep your buddy warm on the upcoming winter nights.   These beds come in all sizes The Sleep-E-Sack Super Sleeper is an oversized sleeping  bag for a variety of small animals. Sleep-E-Sack comes with four strong clips so  you can position it low inside any wire pet home for guinea pigs and dwarf  bunnies or hang it high for frisky ferrets, pet rats and sugar gliders. With its  fleece lining and plush padding for extra comfort, the Sleep-E-Sack is an  accessory no pet should be without. Super Sleepers provide the perfect place to  play or sleep and are machine washable. Please note that color and pattern of fabric may vary. For: Chinchillas, Guinea Pigs,  Rabbits, Ferrets, Pet Rats Size: 11.5 L x 17 H (inches)and shapes just to delight your small pet.

 

The Comf-E-Cube for Small Pets  is perfect for Ferrets, Rabbits, Guinea Pigs,  Pet Rats,
or Chinchillas.  Its fleece-lined floor is perfect for snuggling and it’s padded on every side
for cushiony comfort for a perfect place to play, hang out,  rest and sleep. So easy to
install, simply clip to the top of your pet’s cage.  Comf-E-Cube for Small Pets are a perfect
size 10 x  10 x 10 inches and are machine washable.

 

Another cute and comfy bed is the Sleep-E-Sack Super Sleeper, an oversized sleeping  bag for a variety of small animals. Perfect for Ferrets, Rabbits, Guinea Pigs,  Pet Rats, or Chinchillas. The Sleep-E-Sack Super Sleeper comes with four strong clips to hold the sleeper securley.  Position it low inside any wire pet home for guinea pigs and dwarf  bunnies or hang it high for frisky ferrets, pet rats and sugar gliders. The Sleep-E-Sack Super Sleeper has comfy fleece lining and plush padding for extra comfort provides the perfect play and sleep place.  The size is  11.5 L x 17 H inches and is  machine washable.

Your small pet will thank you for his new bed!

GregRobert Pet Supplies – Supporting Hurricane Sandy Animals

Hurricane Sandy has caused much distress across much of the US East Coast.

GregRobert Enterprises, LLC – owners of GregRobert Pet Supplies, BackyardStyle.com and PetStrut is offering support to pets affected by the storm.

Up and down the East Coast, animal rescuers and volunteers are working to free pets that have been left stranded by the storm’s path and keep owners and their pets from being separated.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) reports that New York City and Long Island shelters have taken in almost 400 animals.  These organizations need monetary support to continue with much needed aid.

GregRobert is donating 10% of profits from online sales starting October 31st, 2012  – November 10th, 2012.

In addition, readers can use coupon: sandy to save $3 on their order of $39 or more.

Purchases that are valid for the donation and coupon can be from any of GregRobert’s 7 online stores.