Picking the Perfect Pet

Senior Thursday

When a senior outlives a spouse, the house is suddenly empty.  Loneliness can set in if the surviving spouse is not active or social.  Perhaps their health keeps them indoors.  Or maybe their family lives out of town.  So they turn to a pet for company.

However, this decision must be made intelligently, because the wrong pet can cause more damage than good.

So how do you decide which pet is best for you or your elderly parent?

·         Consider level of physical activity – If the senior is still active and will be taking walks or exercising, a dog will be a good companion on those walks.  If the senior is homebound, then a cat or bird is a better choice.

·         Consider the age of the owner – Is the senior 55 or 85?  Will they potentially have this pet for five years or twenty?  Birds can live more than 40 years.  What will happen to it when the owner passes away?  However, an older dog or cat can keep them company for several years and may or may not outlive the owner.

·         Consider the size and layout of the home – If the senior is living in a small apartment without direct access to a yard, then a large dog is not a good choice.  A cat or small dog would be a better option if the owner is able to walk the dog.

·         Consider the owner's physical limitations.  Small dogs and cats can create fall hazards, as can their toys and litter boxes.  Also, will the owner be able to clean up after a dog in the yard?

·         Consider the pet's temperament.  Breeds differ greatly in their behavior.  A well-trained dog can be a quiet, calm companion.  But a dog who consistently barks and nips at visitor's feet will only cause undue stress.  Research breed characteristics before choosing a pet.

·         Consider upkeep of the pet.  Can you afford the food, vet bills and grooming associated with a pet?  Can you brush a long-haired dog or cat?  Can you afford the licenses required from your community?

·         Consider the guidelines of your community.  Some communities allow dogs up to a certain size, some no pets at all, some just birds or fish.  Find out before you purchase a dog and get attached to it.

If you aren't sure what pet is best for you, consult your local veterinarian.

Moving With Pets

Moving On Monday

Moving is stressful. Add in pets, and it can be a disaster. That is, unless you are prepared for the day. You have packed and scheduled the move, and planned the layout in your new home. But did you plan for taking care of your pets?

Here are some things you can do to help you and your furry kids through the few days surrounding the move.

• Arrange for boarding for your cats and dogs. They should not be underfoot. Don't plan on keeping them in the yard or garage "out of the way" because the odds are high that they could slip out during the chaos.
• Have all your pets up to date on their medications and vaccinations.
• If you are moving to another town and changing veterinarians, ask for a copy of your pets' records to bring with you.
• If you are driving with your pets, have a crate or cage for each one, along with a leash in the car.
• If you need to stay in a motel for a cross-country move, look for facilities that are pet-friendly.
• Have plenty of water, food and toys in the car for a long drive.
• Pets should be wearing their tags/IDs at all times.
• If you are moving to another state, check laws for entry of animals into the state. Some states have quarantine laws.
• Give your pets time to get accustomed to the new home.
• If your pet has an ID chip, be sure to update your address and phone number with the company.

Safety During the Holidays--Children & Pets

Tips for Tuesday

The holidays are fast approaching. Along with them, are the stresses for preparations. Part of the holiday tradition is entertaining family and friends, whether it's a cozy cookie exchange with the ladies or a formal dinner with the boss.

While these are fun times, there are some hazards associated with entertaining. Take cautions so you aren't a victim.

• Keep decorations at least six inches above a child or pet's reach. They may cause a hazard if broken or be poisonous if ingested.
• Avoid using tinsel. Loose pieces that fall on the floor are tempting choking hazards.
• Ribbons on gifts should be no longer than 7 inches so a child doesn't wrap it around his neck and pets don't get tangled up in it.
• Avoid using small package decorations or ornaments on young children's packages, as they may present a choking hazard. Also check gifts from others for small pieces and other age-appropriate items.
• Store scissors from wrapping away from little hands.
• Watch children and pets around fireplaces or stoves.
• Some holiday plants are poisonous to pets. Check the ASPCA web site (http://www.aspca.org) for a list of plants and foods harmful to pets.