Keep Your Dog and Cat Safe from Rabies

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Keep Your Dog and Cat Safe from Rabies - Header

 

At Wet Noses Pet Sitting we are loving the beautiful weather we are seeing in Colorado. With this nice weather we are also aware of the increased chances of encountering a wild animal when out with our dogs and cats. Here we discuss everything you need to know about rabies and how to keep your furry friends safe this spring and summer!

What is Rabies?

Over the recent years rabies has making a much larger appearance in our area. Normally rabies is found more commonly in warmer states. Cold weather does not get the chance to kill as many diseased animals. Our warm winters has allowed the disease to travel more easily from animal to animal without breaking the chain.

Basically it’s a disease the attacks the central nervous system. Because of this affect on the central nervous system animals affected with rabies can often act tame or angry. It is transmitted through saliva a few days before the animal dies when the virus is being “shed”. Saliva is the only means of transmission, not blood, feces or urine, so outside of being bit by an affected animal it is unlikely your animal will be infected. Rabies also dies quickly when exposed to the air, so as saliva dries up the disease will die with it. The disease also can only travel through wounds or broken skin, not just from surface contact.

What Wild Animal Carry Rabies?

Rabies in dogs and cats comes from an encounter with a wild animal that is already infected. Species that can carry rabies:

  • Bats
  • Coyotes
  • Foxes
  • Raccoons
  • Skunks

There are a few others, but these are the species that are most often seen. In Colorado the largest concerns lie with bats and skunks. Opossums can become infected with rabies but it is extremely rare due to their low body temperature making it difficult for the virus to survive in the opossums body.

How to Keep Your Dog and Cat Safe

  • Vaccinate on Schedule – Follow the recommended schedule for rabies vaccinations from your veterinarian. I am not a huge fan of over vaccinating, but this is both required by law and recommended for safety, especially as rabies outbreaks are becoming more common in recent years. Most often a puppy or kitten is vaccinated around 4 months old and then a year later. Rabies vaccines come in two durations – one year and three years. Talk with your vet about which one fits your lifestyle the best. For cats, some veterinary clinics carry the adjuvanted and non adjuvanted rabies vaccine.
  • Treat Any Bites Immediately – Even if your dog or cat is current on their rabies vaccine, still seek treatment from a veterinarian if your pet has contact with a wild animal. Bites can be hard to find in thick hair, especially small bites like from a bat. Get a veterinarian involved just to be safe.
  • Keep Your Pet Away From Wild Animals – Most of the animals that can carry rabies are nocturnal or diurnal but rabies will make them act abnormally. If you notice a racoon, typically a nocturnal animal, out during the day it may be rabid. Avoid hiking with your dog off-leash at dusk and check your yard at night before letting your pets outside. Keep your cat indoors (good in general) unless on leash.
  • Keep Wild Animals Out of Your Yard – When possible, secure fencing and make sure you are not inviting wild animals into your yard. This mean securing food so animals are not encouraged to come to eat. If you are feeding stray cats, great! Just put the food somewhere that will not encourage wild animals to come into the same area frequented by your dog or cat.

Prevention is Key!

Take these steps to keep your dog and cat safe from encountering animals with rabies. Always better safe than sorry, so if you ever have a possible run-in with a wild animal take the time to get your pet checked by a veterinarian to get any possible treatment. Keep those fur kids safe!

Rabies Infographic

Here at Wet Noses we’re all about your pets safety. Here are our Cold Weather Precautions for Pets Tips and our Cat Travel Safety Tips.

What to Know About Owning A House Rabbit in Fort Collins

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This is the season of the rabbit. It’s spring and the Easter Bunny is everywhere you look. And what’s not to love about fluffy little bunnies? With their adorable twitching noses, soft fluffy ears and gentle disposition. There is just so much to love! That’s why this is the busiest season for house rabbit adoption. And having a rabbit is very rewarding, but there are some things you should know before adopting one of your own. After all, adopting a new pet shouldn’t be an impulse buy for the season, you should be ready to give them a forever home.

Things to Consider:

  • Housing
  • Litter Training
  • Children & Other Pets
  • Spay & Neutering

Housing & Exercise :

First you need to to consider is where your rabbit is going to live. They are pretty social animals, so make sure to pick a place that will give them space, but still allow them to be near the family. Setting them up with a puppy pen, a bunny condo, or a large area to call their own is essential. If they are going to have a free reign area of their own, make sure to bunny-proof that room. Rabbits are natural chewers and will chomp on furniture, rugs, drapes and worst of all, electrical cords. Make sure all cords are tucked away far from Bunny’s reach. Check out these ideas for rabbit housing from MyHouseRabbit.com Bunnies are social and need lots of exercise. They can’t just sit in a cage all day. There are tons of fun chew toys to get them and make sure to spend time with them every day.

Litter Training:

If you’re getting a rescue rabbit, chances are that they have already started the process of litter training. However, they can easily forget their training when the environment changes, but with persistence you can help reinforce their good habits. It is often best to start with them in a cage or enclosure. Then, to make cage time a time for learning, put a litter box in the corner for when your rabbit chooses for a “bathroom.” As they use box consistently and get used to the home, give them a little more freedom.

Children & Other Pets:

Rabbits are great around children. They are patient and mild mannered. But they can live for 10+ years. If you’re buying the pet for you child make sure to think about the future, like going to college, having after school activities or sports. Also, rabbits can get along pretty well with other pets as well. As long as you have another affable pet, then it shouldn’t be a problem.

Spay & Neutering

As it is with our cats and dogs, it is important to pay and neuter your rabbits as well. I mean, the saying about them did happened for a reason, right? Check out this list for all the places in Fort Collins where you can get your rabbit spayed or neutered.

For more information make sure to check out My House Rabbit. They have all the information you need about owning a rabbit.

Do you have a house rabbit in your family? Share you stories and pictures on our Facebook page!

 

 

What is Snakebite Prevention Training?

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Hiking in areas around Fort Collins is a favorite for most dog owners. I mean, it’s simply gorgeous out. Unfortunately, the same trails that you love are also host f0r many rattlesnakes.  In my Pet CPR classes, I recommend that avid hikers put their dogs through a snakebite prevention training. And always exercise caution when in areas that are known for poisonous snakes.

What is snakebite prevention training?

The training is simple, but a little harsh.  It should only be done by a specialized trainer with a class set up, do not try to do this yourself!  Your trainer will do all of the work to make sure it is done properly.  Once the trainer is ready a shock collar is placed on your dog.  The snake will be in a cage or somewhere contained but in a location that your dog is able to see, smell and identify the snake for what it is.  Once your dog has had a second to recognize some of the traits of a snake the trainer will zap him with the shock collar.  This instantly associates the presence of a snake with pain.  This will be repeated a few times in a session to make sure the dog associates the pain correctly.

Who should take the class?

I personally believe that almost all dogs should take this class.  In pet CPR classes I always remind dog owners that although it sounds mean, treating a snakebite is expensive and often the bite is fatal.  The brief shock caused by the training will far offset the alternative: a long and painful treatment for a venomous bite.  The training is necessary for anyone that hikes regularly with their dog, especially in areas like Fort Collins where rattlesnakes are extremely common in the summer months.

How often does the training need to be done?

Often a recheck session is recommended later that year or the following year.  Service dogs are required to be trained and regularly retested to make sure they retain their training.  For most dogs one recheck and then maybe a few years later is sufficient.  Most dogs never have to be shocked again after the initial session.

Who hosts the training?

In Colorado training is most often hosted by a rescue or service dog group as a fundraiser.  Keep an eye on our events calendar and local animal groups for news of an upcoming Snakebite Prevention Training class!

What to Do if You Suspect Animal Cruelty

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It’s a sad thought, but some precious pets are faced with animal cruelty and abuse everyday. And it can happen in the most unlikely places. The movie A Dog’s Purpose was recently thrust into controversy. A video was released that showed the producers allegedly abusing the animals on set. Animal lovers around the country were appalled.

And multiple businesses in the pet industry had even rallied around the movie as a chance to raise money for animals in need. Then sadly, we were faced with the fact that animals during filming were forced to do terrifying stunts. Something no true pet lover would ever do, especially for the sake of entertainment.

Animal cruelty usually hides in the shadows. And that is why this is a perfect opportunity to shed light on this terrible subject. Because this movie proves that abuse can show up any where. So what should you do if you suspect animal cruelty?

Here are a few things that you should know.

  • Find out the agency in your area that is responsible for enforcing and investigating animal cruelty and abuse.

Depending on where you live this could be the SPCA, a local humane society. Residents of smaller jurisdictions can call your local police or sheriff’s department. See below for a list of helpful links to help you narrow down your search.

  • Safely Gather Evidence. 

Okay, so this is not a call to become Nancy Drew or the Hardy boys. But if you can, try to safely take pictures or film with corresponding date.  Also, when you observe suspicious behavior, take down short, but factual notes. It will help law enforcement determine the proper course of action.

  •  Officials should next check out the animal(s), their home and interview you and/or neighbors.

According to Peta.org this is what usually happens next: “Law-enforcement officials should inspect the animal visually, and if possible, conduct a hands-on field exam (referred to as “palpating” the animal) in order to find injuries or an otherwise unhealthy physical condition that may be obscured by the victim’s fur. Officials will often be fooled by a dog who “acts happy,” but manic or social behavior does not mean that the animal is safe; he or she may just be anxious to please or desperate for attention. A more thorough examination is necessary, and an injured or clearly endangered animal must not be left behind. The crime scene should also be thoroughly inspected for any indication that abuse has occurred. Suspects and neighbors (potential witnesses) should be interviewed. If the investigator agrees that your complaint has merit, a warning may be issued, charges filed, a warrant served, and/or the animal(s) removed.”

  • Persistence can save lives. 

Once reported, warnings are issued and charges could be filed. But this doesn’t guarantee that the pets are safe. Go to supervisors and government officials if necessary. Call your local media, news coverage can do wonders to stop abuse. If you feel in your heart that animals are still in danger, do not stop.

 

HELPFUL LINKS:

ASPCA

PETA – Report Animal Cruelty

National Link Coalition

PAWS

 

 

Top 5 Places to Board your Pet in Loveland

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It can be difficult leaving our pets in the care of strangers, but sometimes we have to board them. Long vacations and business trips happen. And boarding can be the best solution for long trips when it comes to your pets. However, it be hard on the owner and stressful for the pet. That’s why have to make sure you’re picking the best place. If you need to board your pet soon, we’re here to help! Here are the top 5 places in the Loveland area.

1.)  Camp Bow Bow Loveland

1227 Des Moines Ave

Loveland, CO 80537

(970) 534-3323

2.) K9 Island

211 Barberry Pl

Loveland, CO 80537

(970) 663-0977

3.)  Covalent Pet Care

3012 N. Franklin Ave

Loveland, CO 80538

(602) 743-6544

4.)  Happy Trails Pet Spa & Resort

3590 Draft Horse Court

Loveland, CO 80538

(970) 663-7317

5.)  Creature Comforts Pet Retreat

808 S Co Rd 23E

Loveland, CO 80537

(970) 669-2084

 

Now that you know the top 5 places to board your pet, there are still some things to think about.  All of the kennels and boarding facilities we chose have high reviews with a good reputation. However there are a few more things to consider to narrow down exactly which is the right fit for you and your pet.

  1. Will your pet need round the clock veterinarian care (specifically for older or sick pets)?
  2. Can you visit the facility before you book?
  3. Do they follow the over crowding code? They should have at least 1 person to every 15 dogs in their care.
  4. What amenities or exercise programs (if any) do you want your pet to have?
  5. Should you consider a pet sitter for daily or overnight care in home?

Make sure to stay tuned next week when we go over the differences, as well as pros and cons between pet sitting and boarding!

Getting Familiar with Kong Toys

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Chances are you have heard of the famous dog toy, the Kong. Kongs are a great tool in the repertoire of any dog owner. They are great because they can be customized to fit you and your dog’s needs.

Some tips before getting started:

  • Buy the correct size (sized by weight of dog).
  • Buy one large enough for the largest dog in your house.
  • Supervise your dog while using the Kong to make sure they do not chew pieces off and eat them.
  • Wash the Kong after each use. They can be washed by hand or in the dishwasher.

Loading the Kong:

1. Start with a hard food such as treats or your dog’s kibble in the bottom third of the Kong.

2. The second layer is the flavors add on. This is something your dog likes to eat like fish oil, or coconut oil.

3. The next layer, that fills the last 2/3 of the Kong , is the soft layer. This can be any type of soft food. I like to use canned, wet food, cream cheese, peanut butter or dog safe baby food.

4. Top the Kong by sticking something in the soft layer, like a carrot or dental chew. In order to make the Kong last longer, you can stick it in the freezer.

5. To make a simple Kongscicle fill the Kong with chicken or beef broth and freeze it.
6. You can also buy Kong brand filler. It comes in a few flavors. This is good in a pinch but is not very healthy for your dog.

 

This toy is perfect for when you have to be gone for most of the day. Or even just rainy days that you want your pup entertained. It’s challenging, fun, and also rewarding.  Want to learn more about incorporating the Kong into training your dog? Check out these Training Videos for even more tips!

What are your experiences with this toy? Does your dog love it, did they shun it, or even destroy it? Let us know your stories in the comment section!

 

How Do I know If It Is Too Cold to Walk My Dog?_Header

How Do I know If It Is Too Cold to Walk My Dog?

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How Do I know If It Is Too Cold to Walk My Dog?_Header

Winter does not have to put a damper on you and your dog’s activities, but how do you know when it is too cold outside? Dog walks provide health benefits when done in the proper conditions. There are a variety of factors that influence when it is too cold to walk your dogs. Here are some general guidelines.

 

Want to learn more in video format? Check out the video below.

Factors

There are a few factors to account for when determining if it’s too cold to walk your dog. They are fur length, size and body condition, and health conditions. As with all of these, make sure you are following general winter weather precautions.

Fur Length

What type and length of fur your dog has can impact how tolerant to cold he is. Short haired or shaved dogs have less fur to protect them from the cold and wind. Which means, they do not tolerate winter walks as well. For shorter haired dogs, do not walk them outside when the temperature is below freezing (32 degrees Fahrenheit) without a coat or sweater. Long and thick haired dogs are more tolerant to the cold. These dogs can handle walks outside in the cold, but these walks should be short.

Size and Body Condition

Small dogs tend to have a harder time adjusting to the cold. This is because they are closer to the ground and generally have short hair. These dogs should not walk outside in temperatures below 10 degrees Fahrenheit. Even with a sweater or coat.

Larger dogs are higher off the ground and tend to have more healthy body fat compared to smaller dogs. This helps larger dogs be more tolerant to the cold.

Body condition is also an important factor in determining how cold is too cold. Fat helps insulate the body and keep your dog warm. Many dogs, particularly hunting dogs, have fat under their skin. This is why labs can jump into freezing lakes. For this reason, dogs who are underweight should not be outside for extended periods of time in the cold.

brown short coated dog wearing red and white polka dot shirt sitting on snow covered ground

Health Conditions

Many health conditions impact how your dog will react to the cold. When the temperature is below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, dogs with arthritis or dogs with hip dysplasia should only be walked for short periods of time. The cold tends to exacerbate these conditions and will make your dog extra sore and grumpy. Other health conditions, like thyroid issues, affect your dog’s ability to regulate his body temperature. Dogs with these conditions should not be walked for long periods of time in the cold. Talk to your vet to see if any health conditions your dog has can be affected by the cold.

Ways to Make the Cold Better

You should never send your dog outside if it’s too cold but what if you have to. If you must go outside with your dog make sure you are in and out as quick as possible. You should supervise your dog the entire time. Also consider getting some of the following items to make the bitter cold less bitter.

Conclusion

There are a variety of factors to consider when deciding how cold is too cold to walk your dog. In general, use caution when the temperature is below freezing. Keep walks short and brisk to help prevent your dog from getting too cold. Always be aware of other winter weather dangers, such as ice and sidewalk salt.

New Year’s Resolutions for a Healthy Pet

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With a New Year right around the bend, we are most likely putting together our resolutions for the start of a fresh year! Each year we kick it into gear, starting off brand spanking new with positive vibes and healthy goals. But have you considered setting up some resolutions for your pet? Because we’re not the only ones who needs to set some healthy goals for the New Year as well. However, they will need your help, though. Here are some fantastic ideas to get you started!

1. Tune in their diet

Use the same size portions every day. Don’t deviate or change up the quantity that you feed your dog from day to day. Set the portion size and stick with it! Lots of folks use the good old eyeball method. Most times we end up eye balling a tad too much food into their bowl and over feed our dogs. Get yourself an 8 ounce measuring cup (or whatever size is appropriate) and use that to feed them their appropriate sized serving!

2. Turn up the exercise

Set up a specific routine for walking Fido. This one will not only help your pet, but also may meet your goals as well. Select a specific time in the day and make it happen. Your dog needs daily exercise (and so do you). Exercise serves to physically AND mentally stimulate your dog as well as build his confidence in the world around him. A healthy, happy dog is well exercised, socialized dog.

3. Get routine physicals

Set up your Vet appointments at the start of the year. In fact, call your vet today and set the appointment up. Find out what shots are due, and when. Find out what routine exams are required and make those appointments well in advance. Putting off routine examinations is poor judgment and could cost your dog his life. Prevention is key.

4. Grooming

Grooming is essential. No matter what type of dog you have, he must be groomed. Why not start the year off right by setting up a schedule of grooming appointments and maybe setting aside some time each day towards grooming. Take ten minutes a day, after a walk or after work and brush your pet. Check his ears, eyes and nails. Make sure they are looking good. This not only helps your pet stay healthy and well groomed, but it creates a bond between you both. Knowing your pet’s body is also important because if any lumps, bumps or bruises develop, you will be immediately aware and can address any situations from the get-go.

What’s even better is that you may even see yourself get some added health benefits while you are helping your furry-friend. Are you setting up some New Year’s Resolutions for your pets? What are they? We’d love to hear them?

The Problems with Dog Kennels

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Dog kennels can be a great place to make sure your dog stays safe while you are away on vacation or a business trip. However, there can be some serious dangers when it comes to kennels. There can be exposure to sickness, behavioral problems, and even trauma for dogs who spend too much time in a kennel.

 

Sickness found in Kennels 

Dogs in kennels are at risk for contracting a whole host of diseases and parasites. Respiratory conditions like Kennel Cough, and Canine Distemper, as well as parasites, fleas, ticks and mange, can easily be passed from dog to dog.

 

Behavioral Problems

There is a whole of of stress put on a dog while being kept in a kennel. The strange cage, loud noises, weird smalls can be a lot to take in. Dogs that have been in a shelter for long periods of time exhibit more problems. They can show signs of destructiveness, fearfulness, and tendency to flee. Of course the shorter the dog is in a kennel the less detrimental the effects, but most dogs experience stress on some level when in a kennel.

Kennel Syndrome

When dogs are left in a kennel or a shelter too long,  can actually experience periods of insanity. There was a study done at University of Bristol’s Anthrozoology Institute. It included videotapes of 30 police-trained German shepherds in their kennels after work. They found that the dogs showed definite signs of stress and even temporary mental illness. Keep in mind this is for dogs with jobs and a lot of interaction throughout the day. Imagine how bad it is for dogs that hardly ever get to leave their cages.

It’s likely that short trip to the kennel will not traumatize your dog. However, it’s important to check out a kennel before hand. Also, make sure your dog’s vaccinations are up to date. Lastly, if you’re adopting a dog in from a shelter, be kind and patient as they learn the ropes of life outside of the cage.

Best Collar and Leash to Use for Walking

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The long sunny and warm days of summer are always inviting. You may find yourself walking your dog more frequently and longer while the sunlight lingers long into the evening hours. Taking your dog for walks is not only healthy, it is a fun way to bond with your pup pal. However, the bonding and fun could be cut short if you’re busy fussing over the wrong sized leash and collar.

At the pet store, the huge aisle of leashes and collars can be pretty confusing. That’s why we have a great list for you to deter the best collar and least to use while walking your dog.

  • Collars & Harnesses:

 

Standard Flat Collar

A standard collar that works for most dogs. It’s important to continue to check the size of the collar as your dog grows or gains/loses weight. You should be able to slip two fingers under the collar comfortably. This is not the best choice for dogs with long or large necks like Greyhounds or Whippets.

Martingale

The Martingale collar adjusts itself when the dog pulls on the leash. It works great for dogs that tend to pull during walks. It tightens just enough that the dog won’t slip out, but doesn’t choke or harm their neck. These are perfect for dogs who tend to get excited by every sight (SQUIRREL!) and sound.

Harness

The harness is perfect for breeds that have pushed in faces Ppugs), trachea issues (Pomeranian), or long slender necks (Italian Greyhounds).  It avoids putting pressure on their necks allowing them to walk more freely. The main draw back is that harnesses can promote pulling in some dogs.

AVOID:

Choke collars and prong/prick collars

  • Leashes:

 

Standard Leash

What is great about the standard leash is that it is also a versatile leash. You can opt for nylon, leather, or chain and they all work about the same. The best thing to remember about this type of leash is to get the right size. If you have a small dog, then a smaller lighter leash will work better than a heavy one. For a dog that chews, try the chain leash. If you walk a lot around dusk or at night, get a nylon leash with a reflection element.

Retractable

Some walkers swear by the retractable leash because it allows the dog to roam freely. However, there are some draw backs. It offers little control, meaning your dog can dart off without much warning, ripping the handle right out of your hand. Even worse, they could get into trouble while on the leash. If there is a dangerous animal, like a snake, in a shrub you won’t be able to pull them back as effectively with a retractable leash.

Slip Lead

 

 

 

 

This is like the Martingale collar, but with a leash attached. It is great for training dogs to stand by your side while you’re walking. The slip allows for safe corrections while still enjoying your walk.

 

 

There are a lot of choices out there when deciding on the best collar and leash you need for your dog. We are always here to help sort out the details. Give us a call if you want to know the type of collar and leash we would recommend for your dog.

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