Driving Cats

Eco-Me Holiday Gift Ideas

This holiday season and gift ideas are running short. This year give something that keeps on giving - to friends, their furry ones and to mother Earth! Something that starts conversations and makes a difference, give an Eco-Me Dog or Cat Kit.

Eco-Me 100% Natural Dog Kit includes:1 Bottle with Sprayer to mix Eco-Me Dog Flea & Bug Spray, 1 Jar & Lid to mix Eco-Me Dog Clean Wipes, 25 recyclable cloths included, 1 Jar & Lid to mix Eco-Me Dog Dry Powder Shampoo, 1 Jar & Lid to store Eco-Me Dog Treats with 3 recipes, 1 Bottle of Eco-Me Dog blend essential oil mix, 1 Mixer, 1 Scooper, 1 Dog Bone shaped Biscuit Cookie Cutter.

Your Cat will love Eco-Cat natural products. Kit includes: 1 jar & lid to mix Eco-Me Cat Litter Freshener, 1 jar & lid to store Eco-Me Cat Treats with 3 recipes, 1 bottle & sprayer to mix Eco-Me Cat Flea & Bug Spray, 1 bottle of Eco-Me Cat blend essential oil mix, 1 mixer, 1 scooper, 1 Bag of Organic Catnip (up to 3 uses), 0.5 oz 1 Natural Burlap Cat pillow.

Made a Plate for Fido

Roast turkey and stuffing, sweet potato casserole, mashed potatoes and giblet gravy, cranberry relish ... oh, and pumpkin pie with whipped cream. This is just a partial list of typical Thanksgiving fare, and it's enough to start most mouths watering.

Thanksgiving is all about abundance and sharing. But if you're thinking of sharing your feast with your pet, think again. This special meal is full of Thanksgiving taboos that can harm your dog or your cat. And nothing can take the life out of your celebration like an unexpected tripVehicle Barrier With Door
Precision Pet Products Vehicle Pet Barrier with Door protects the interior of your car, SUV, van or other vehicle and minimizes distractions for you b... to the closest veterinary emergency treatment center.

Cats and dogs are creatures of habit and do not really need much variety in their diet. In fact dietary changes frequently lead to loose stools and other digestive problems. So before you add that extra turkey and giblet gravy to your pet's dish, consider some holiday banquet boo boos.

Things to Keep Off Your Pet's Plate

Bones. Bones are not as healthy as you may think and may cause some serious problems. Even well cooked, baked or stewed bones are dangerous. They can also be a choking hazard and can cause possible intestinal bleeding if the bone shards break off and tear the intestinal lining.

Rich and fatty foods. These typically include the giblets, dark meat turkey and turkey skin, potatoes and butter-coated vegetables, gravy and stuffing. Too much fat can result in pancreatitis, which is a potentially life threatening condition.

Pancreatitis occurs when the dog is trying to digest a very fatty meal. During digestion, the pancreas produces enzymes to assist in the digestive process, but with pancreatitis, too many enzymes are produced; as a result the pancreas becomes inflamed and can even begin digesting itself. The symptoms are vomiting and diarrhea, usually bloody. Your dog can become dehydrated and die.

Sweets. Forget the pumpkin pie, sweet potatoes topped with marshmallows, and after dinner mints. Also on the list are chocolate, which can be poisonous to your pet, eggnog, alcohol and nuts. All of these can cause stomach painBiocaine 4oz Tomlyn Biocaine (4 oz) is a First Aid Lotion for dogs and cats relieves pain and stops wound chewing, licking and scratching. Painless and soothing to... and diarrhea.

Spicy foods. Many pets suffer upset stomachs caused by spicy foods, so hold off on the spicy sauces and dressings. Various types of onions, too, can be toxic in varying amounts.

Your Pet Can Go Gobble, Gobble

We all know we shouldn't feed table food to our pets, but it is awfully difficult to keep from sharing, especially when the meal is as special as Thanksgiving. There are a few things you can add to your pet's dinner that won't cause any harm.

White meat turkey or chicken. These are okay, as long as you don't give too much. A small piece cut up and mixed with his food or given separately will be a real treat for your dog or cat.

Cooked vegetables. Dogs are omnivores and they especially like vegetables, but serve without the butter and salt. Cats may not be interested.

Turkey broth. Try cooking the giblets in water to make a tasty turkey broth that you can use to moisten your pet's food. By the way, you can use canned broth, too.

So during the holidays, if you choose to share with your pet, the best advice is to use common sense. Stick to foods you know won't cause your pet any distress. Do not feed from the table – save the treats for after the meal. And don't forget to add a little special attention or play time for the best treat of all.

Sniffing Out Ear Infections

Dogs aren't known for their sweet fragrance, but if you notice a foul odor -- and Fifi hasn't been rolling in yucky stuff -- lift up her ear flaps and sniff. Healthy ears don't smell bad. However, if you get a whiff of something alarmingly bad, chances are bacteria, mites, or fungi are thriving in your dog's long and hairy ear canal. Other telltale signs of infection that warrant a vet visit include redness, discharge, extreme warmth, and sensitivity to touch. Your pet may run the side of her head along the floor, too. Don't attempt to clean sore ears yourself -- instead, get treatment instructions from your vet.

Source: http://www.dogage.com/Index.aspx

Look Mom, no Hands

You've seen human Moms carrying babies in similar slings; now pet Moms can benefit from the bonding and sensory development that occur when you carry your furbaby close to your chest, comforted by your heartbeat, and stimulated by sharing your activities, be they shopping, errands, or goings on around town.

All hands free! Ideal for nurturing and bonding with any small pet, this carrier fosters a sense of security that's especially valuable for newly adopted pets or disabled/special needs pets.

Product Buzz: The Cuddle Up Sling and Snuggle Up Sling are perfect for keeping your fur-babies close and secure. Perfect for puppies or older pets that can't move around as easily - as well as for pets that don't "play well" with others and need to be kept safe.

How to Prevent a Lost Pet

Accidents can happen to even the very best of pet owners. In some cases, however, the heartbreak of losing a petcould have been prevented. No pet owner expects to losetheir pet or have it stolen. Take these steps to helpsafeguard your pet:

• Make sure your yard is securely fenced. Dogs can squeeze through small gaps under the fencing so be sure to patch any that you find. Regularly check your fence for new holes, gaps, or rotten boards and fix them right away.
  - Also be aware of items that could help your dog escape the yard, such as chain link fencing (some dogs can climb it!), or a patio set or storage unit near the fence (which a pet could use as a stepping stone to leap over the fence).
  
• If your dog likes to dig:
  - Dig a trench a foot or more deep around the perimeter of your yard, right underneath the fence line. Fill it with concrete or place more boards in the trench and then re-fill it. This will help to prevent your dog from digging underneath your fence and escaping the yard.
  - Build a separate dog run with a concrete floor (or with a similar setup to the above to help prevent digging dogs from escaping).
  
• Lock your gates. Fence gates can blow open in the wind; swing open if they're not properly latched; or be left open for any number of reasons. Protect your pet by placing a lock or a tension cable across the gate to keep it securely closed. This will also prevent visitors from entering your yard without permission.
  
• Keep dogs leashed and cats crated when travelling. Your pet could become disoriented and get lost if he escapes in an unfamiliar area.
  
• Check collars and leashes for fraying. Replace them as needed.
  
• Make sure your pet's collar is properly fitted. It should neither be too tight or too loose, since loose collars may slip off over your pet's head.
  
• Do not leave your pets outside or in the car alone and unattended. There have been unfortunate cases in which family pets have been stolen. It only takes a quick moment for someone to take your pet!
  
• Train your dog. Dogs should respond to basic obedience commands. Many dog owners love to frequent leash-free areas, a great place for dogs to interact with each other and get some exercise. However all dogs must be under control. A dog that is obedience-trained will be less likely to run off inappropriately.
  
• Beware of loud noises. Many dogs have noise phobias over things like fireworks, thunderstorms, or construction noises. Don't bring dogs to events where loud noises are expected - even if they've never before had a negative reaction to them. If you must bring your pet, make sure he is supervised and securely leashed or crated.
  
• Spay or neuter your pet. "Fixed" pets are less likely to wander, and there are health benefits too.
  
• Make sure your pet is always wearing appropriate ID. That includes a collar with license tag; a tag with up-to-date telephone numbers; a rabies tag; plus a microchip and/or a tattoo. Collars can come loose and tags may fall off, so a microchip is an an additional safeguard for your pet. Always make sure your contact information is current. Periodically check to make sure the tags are still readable, and if not, replace them.
  
• Take a few clear photos of your pet right now. They will be indispensable if your pet gets lost.
  

From Petfriendly.ca newsletter September 2008

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I wear my sunglasses....

And now your pup can too!!

Pawhaus Pet Boutique is now carrying Doggles for your pooch!

Doggles are protective eyewear for dogs. They are actually goggles for dogs, hence
the name. Unlike ordinary sunglasses for dogs, Doggles actually protect dog’s eyes from
foreign objects, wind, and UV light.

What do Doggles look like?

They are modeled after sports goggles. All models have flexible, snug-fitting frames, which have foam padding against the face; polycarbonate (shatterproof) and anti-fog lenses; and adjustable elastic head and chin straps to keep the Doggles securely on the dog.

Doggles ILS feature patented wide nose bridge, deep lens cup, interchangeable lenses. Dogs have a much wider nose bridge than humans, along with protruding eyes. You need a goggle designed specifically to fit a dog's unique face structure.

Why are Doggles better than sunglasses for dogs?

Feature Doggles – goggles for dogs sunglasses for dogs

UV coating on lens Yes Yes - usually

Polycarbonate
(shatterproof) lens Yes No

Anti-fog lens Yes No

Fits to face,
not allowing stray light
or UV rays Yes No

Fits snugly to head Yes No

Foam padding
for comfort Yes No

Used for actual
protection of eyes,
not just for cosmetic
purposes. Yes No


Vets and Vet Ophthalmologists all around the world recommend this product.

In the aftermath of the World Trade Center tragedy, Doggles was one of the few
companies that the ASPCA contacted directly for protective gear for the Search and
Rescue Dogs.

Unique Pet Gift for the Holiday Season

The E.B.D. Carry-all is a great item for the Holiday season! This trendy dog travel gear bag is perfect for packing all your dog's belongings!

Think of it as a doggy diaper bag ergonomically designed with functionality and style. The sleek, stylish exterior makes it a great accessory that does not compromise your personal style.
This bag includes:

• Bone-shaped carabineer
• Integrated waste bag dispenser pocket
• Indoor/outdoor blanket
• Freezable gel pack
• Food bowl
• Water bowl
• Eight interior pockets including a zipper pocket for vet records, hand sanitation canisters, exterior cell phone/MP3 and exterior pen pocket

Do you know a friend or family member that travels alot - but maybe needs to be more organized? Do you have the Gand-Furkids over on the weekends sometimes and would love all their toys and goodies to come in one organized pack?

This is the item that you need to have under the tree! For yourself or for a loved one - it's a no miss on Santa Claus' list!

Iams Home for the Holidays

Celebrating its 10th anniversary, Iams Home 4 The Holidays – among the world’s most successful pet adoption programs – includes nearly 3,000 worldwide partner animal organizations that are dedicated to helping place orphaned dogs and cats into happy, loving homes.

Iams Home 4 The Holidays has set a goal to place 1 million orphaned animals into happy and loving homes this holiday season from October 1, 2008 to January 5, 2009.

Award-winning actress and pet parent Felicity Huffman has teamed up with Iams Home 4 The Holidays to help raise awareness for the millions of homeless dogs and cats in North America.

We’re asking everyone to open their heart and/or home to a homeless pet this holiday season. Visit Iamshome4theholidays.com for a myriad of ideas and ways to help orphaned pets.

Since it began in 1999, Home 4 The Holidays has helped place more than 2 million pets into happy homes. Last year alone, Iams Home 4 the Holidays helped nearly 500,000 families experience the joy of pet adoption.

Founded by Helen Woodward Animal Center and supported by Iams, Home 4 The Holidays began in 1999 with just 14 participating animal shelters in San Diego County. Today there are nearly 3,000 shelters in 15 countries around the world helping orphaned animals find loving homes and families.

Every cat, dog, puppy or kitten that is adopted during Iams Home 4 the Holidays will go home with an Iams Adoption Starter Kit that contains food samples, coupons and important tips and information about pet care, behavior, training and nutrition.CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL FACT SHEET

DID YOU KNOW...

• There are as many as 8 Million homeless pets looking for a home in our country?
• As many as 4 million orphaned dogs and cats will be euthanized this year due to shelter overcrowding and lack of awareness about these homeless pets?
• More than a quarter of all dogs in animal shelters are purebreds?
• Iams Home 4 the Holidays has helped more than 1,047,000 Dogs, 962,000 cats and 66,000 "other" animals, such as rabbits, reptiles, birds and more, find homes over the past nine years?
• That you can be a hero to a pet by visiting www.iamshome4theholidays.com to find participating animal organizations or other ways to help.

Petsecure Gives You Confidence

Petsecure is for all the reasons you can imagine, but more importantly, for all the reasons you can't.

Some Things Are Simply Out of Your Hands. When you first brought home your new dog or cat, you likely imagined all the joy, the fun and the companionship that furry bundle would bring to your family. Very few of us stop and think about the likelihood of our pet coming down with common illnesses or medical problems associated with their breed, or make allowances for the accidents that inevitably pop up in every pet's life. But that's why there's pet health insurance.

Pet insurance is the best way to have a plan in place, and peace of mind in the event of any accident, illness or expense associated with preventive care. Things like routine heartworm checks, medication for ear infections, fights with other pets and even household mishaps such as swallowing toxins like chocolate, or other 'foreign' objects are covered. So are pricey diagnostics like x-rays, dental care, surgery, emergency hospitalization, and prescriptions too.

Benefits:

• Enables you to provide the best possible care for your pet; especially when the unexpected occurs.
• Provides for responsible pet ownership; much the same as providing plenty of love and attention, good nutrition, proper exercise and a safe environment.
• Helps you budget and control the cost of care, by keeping you aware of monthly costs and ensuring you won't be caught unprepared in the event of an emergency.
• Provides you (and your pet) with greater access to life-saving treatments. Crucial decisions are easier to make.
• Gives peace of mind, knowing that pets are covered before they develop health problems, illness or conditions normally associated with their breed or age.

Best of all, getting started with us is as easy as 1-2-3!

Fall and Winter Holiday Plant Toxicity in Cats

Flowers and plants add beauty to any holiday, and they make great holiday gifts. But if your family includes pets, you may want to learn which plants are safe and which ones you need to avoid.

Remember that ingesting bulb plants often cause the most severe illnesses. Here are a list of some popular winter holiday plants and their potential toxicities.

Holly (Ilex sp.). This plant, commonly found around Christmas time, can cause intense vomiting and diarrhea. Mental depression can also occur.

Amaryllis (Amaryllis spp). Ingestion can result in vomiting, diarrhea, depression, lack of appetite, tremors, drooling and abdominal pain.

Mistletoe (Phoradendron spp.). This plant, another Christmas plant, can also cause significant vomiting and diarrhea. In addition, this plant has been associated with difficulty breathing, slowed heart rate, collapse and, if a lot is ingested, death has occurred.Some animals may even show erratic behavior and possible hallucinations.

Poinsettia (Euphorbia). This plant can cause irritation to the mouth and stomach and sometimes vomiting. It has a low level of toxicity and is overrated as a toxic plant. Many people consider it basically non-toxic.

Christmas cactus, Thanksgiving cactus, Easter cactus (Schlumbergera or Zygocactus). In dogs, if large quantities of this plant are ingested, vomiting, possibly with blood, diarrhea, possibly with blood and mental depression have been reported. With small ingestions, typically there are no signs of toxicity. These plants are considered low toxicity plants.

Some less common toxic winter holiday plants include:

American bittersweet (Celastrus scandens). Ingestion results in weakness, vomiting and seizures.

European bittersweet (Solanum dulcamara). Ingestion results in drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, depression, lack of appetite, weakness, confusion and low heart rate.

Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium). Ingestion results in vomiting, diarrhea, depression, drooling and lack of appetite.

Christmas rose (Helleborus niger). Ingestion results in abdominal pain, vomiting, bloody diarrhea and delirium.

Jerusalem cherry (Solanum pseudocapsicuni). Ingestion results in vomiting, diarrhea, mouth ulcers, seizures, mental depression, respiratory depression, shock and death.

Autumn crocus (Colchicum autumnale). Ingestion of the bulbs results in mouth irritation, blooding vomiting, diarrhea, shock, kidney failure, liver damage and bone marrow suppression.

Thanksgiving cactus (Zygocactus truncactus). Ingestion results in vomiting, diarrhea and depression. Cats also can develop staggering.

Christmas palm (Veitchia merrillii). This plant is considered nontoxic.

Christmas orchid (Cattleya trianaei). This plant is considered nontoxic.

Christmas dagger fern (Polystichym spp). This plant is considered nontoxic.

Mistletoes cactus (Thipsalis cassutha). This plant is considered nontoxic.

Burning bush (Euronymous alatus). Ingestion can result in vomiting, diarrhea, depression and lack of appetite.

Hot Pet Products to Help Your Dog Brave the Winter

We all know that the time is coming. Those dark and cold winter nights will be upon us soon and it’s not just a painful experience to be out in the cold for us – but for your pets as well.

Here are a few items that will help keep you and your furry ones safe and sound on a cold winter night.

Salt on the sidewalks is a big concern when I have my dogs on their daily constitutional. If you haven’t ordered your EPIKS dog boots, made with special memory foam insole combined with the Thermoplastic Rubber (TPR) sole to reduce the load on a dog's legs and energize with each step, you can help apply some TLC to their paws by rubbing on Cain and Able’s Paw Palm. This all natural paw rub is formulated to protect, heal, and moisturize. It is made with human-grade ingredients that are safe if ingested. It is also great for dry skin, chapped noses and chapped lips (for you!).

Get tired of having to bring along the flashlight in order to find your pets favorite ball? With the sun setting so early in the day during the winter months – it’s important for you and your pup that you don’t lose their favorite toys in the snow. That’s why the Night Wubba is the perfect solution. With night reflective tape on the Wubba’s tails and a reinforced orange nylon ball with squeaker you and your pet will be able to spot this toy without searching in the snow banks.

Of course, on those days that you just can’t face outside time because the weather is so bad, you need to find something to occupy your pet’s time and energy indoors. The Rudy Holiday Plush toy is made from a soft, yet durable corduroy fabric, non-toxic poly fill and an enticing squeaker. Rudy will be sure to entertain your pooch for hours this holiday season and this silly looking reindeer will warm any heart! If your pup doesn’t favour the squeaker toy (or maybe does too much) you can also spend some quality time inside with your pet by making them their own, home-baked dog treats with the Pet Cookie Cutter Gift Set. A cute and clever gift set that's packed with kitchen favorites, the kit includes two bone-shaped and two star-shaped cookie cutters, a red & white cotton dish towel, and a 1-quart stainless steel bowl.

So, whether you chose to brave the outside elements or stay warm indoors, these smart buys can help you and your furry friends through the cold season with skill and style!

Monday Madness

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