Tuesday, October 4, 2016

Three Excuses For Not Walking Your Dog and How To Overcome Them


1.  Too tired after coming home from work and just want to relax

Tip:  Taking even a short walk can re-energize you and help you leave work behind for the evening.  You will feel better if you get it out of the way right when you walk in the door.  Have the leash and shoes waiting and just do it!  Or try walking before work if that is possible.  A little walk in the morning always helps make a day brighter.

2.  No time--too busy!

Tip:  Each week take a look at your schedule.  Ask yourself "when could I squeeze in a 15 minute walk?".  Put a few walks on your calendar:   Date with Buddy.  C'mon you can do it!

3.  My dog gets plenty of exercise in the yard all day.

Tip:  When a dog is left in the yard, most of the time all they do is sleep.  Dogs are pack animals and want to be with you.  Going for a walk is a lot more than exercise for a dog.  Think of it as "reading the newspaper".  Dogs love to cruise the neighborhood, sniff all around and mark their territory.  It's also special bonding time with you that they may not get any other time of the day. 

Monday, October 3, 2016

Helping Rescued Senior Dogs

Have you ever shared your bed with your beloved pet only to realize you were on the very edge and they had all the covers?  Now multiply that by seven and you can picture what Chris and Mariesa Hughes were facing every night sharing a bed with their seven rescue dogs.  After nights of couch sleeping the Hughes’ came up with a solution that made everyone happy…they created the Megabed!


The Megabed measures just under 14' x 7' with added steps so the senior dogs do not need to jump up
Chris and Mariesa Hughes are founders of The Mr. Mo Project, a nonprofit with a mission to rescue elderly and sick dogs from shelters (saving them from possible euthanasia) and placing them in homes to live the rest of their life in a home filled with love.  Mr. Mo Project also covers the dog’s medical and living expenses. 
Sunday, October 2, 2016

How To Help Prevent Cat-Scratch Fever


This month the Centers for DiseaseControl and Prevention (CDC) has released results from a study that shows an increase in serious complications from “cat-scratch” disease (also known as cat-scratch fever). It is a disease spread through contact (usually scratches or bites)with infected cats or cat fleas (carrier of the disease) However, it important to note that the bacterium causing the disease, called Bartonella henselae, is not present in most cats.

According to the report approximately 12,000 people were diagnosed with cat-scratch disease during the study period, of which 500 required hospitalizations. Young children, those with compromised immune systems and the elderly seem to be at higher risk of having complications.

Good hygiene is the key here.  The CDC advises people to wash hands thoroughly after playing with their cats and to treat cat scratches (or bites) promptly to avoid infection. If you notice swelling or redness seek medical attention. The disease can be treated with antibiotics.


Sources: cbsnews.com,usa today, cdc