Interesting Facts about Pets/Bargains from Halo Pets

 

Read below for interesting facts about Pets in the U.S.. 

Bargain shoppers then follow the link for Halo coupons redeemable at Spike's Treats! www.spikestreats.com

 

Pet Facts

U.S. Pet Ownership Statistics

This information is from the Humane Society of the United States' web site.
The following statistics were compiled from the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association (APPMA) 2005-2006 National Pet Owners Survey. Some of these numbers have increased since the survey.

Dogs

• There are approximately 73 million owned dogs in the United States
• Thirty-nine percent of U.S. households own at least one dog
• Most owners (60 percent) own one dog
• Twenty-five percent of owners own two dogs
• Fourteen percent of owners own three or more dogs
• On average, owners have almost two dogs (1.7)
• The proportion of male to female dogs is about even
• Sixteen percent of owned dogs were adopted from an animal shelter
• On average, dog owners spent $211 on veterinary visits (vaccine, well visits) annually
• More than seventy percent of owned dogs are spayed or neutered

Cats

• There are approximately 90 million owned cats in the United States
• Thirty-four percent of U.S. households (or 37.7 million) own at least one cat
• Fifty percent of owners own more than one cat
• On average, owners have two cats (2.4)
• Slightly more female cats are owned than male cats (66 percent vs. 64 percent respectively)
• Fifteen percent of owned cats were adopted from an animal shelter
• Cat owners spent an average of $179 on routine veterinary visits
• Eighty-four percent of owned cats are spayed or neutered

Annual Expenses for Owning a Cat or Dog

According to the 2007-2008 APPMA National Pet Owners Survey, basic annual expenses for dog and cat owners in dollars include:

Expense	Dogs	Cats
Surgical Vet Visits	453	363
Food	217	188
Kennel Boarding	225	149
Routine Vet	219	175
Groomer/Grooming Aids	127	18
Vitamins	77	31
Treats	66	40
Toys	41	26

**Note: APPMA does not ask Survey Participants how much in total they spend on their dog or cats annually. The expenses listed above are not all inclusive and each category was asked separately of the survey participant
 www.halopets.com/coupons/  Redeemable at Spike's Treats.  For more information on Spike's Treats go to: www.spikestreats.com

Great Guide for Natural Dog Care and Training: "The Whole Dog Journal"

Whole Dog Journal August Issue Preview

The August issue of Whole Dog Journal is now available online! Here is a brief summary of what you'll find...
Imagine this: A hot summer day, blue skies, a beautiful lake, and a bunch of friends tossing dog toys into the water for their canine companions to fetch. One gorgeous, healthy Labrador Retriever swimming strongly to retrieve a toy that has sailed out beyond the rest with her eyes on a second toy that has been tossed out; only this time beyond her reach. Heading farther and farther into the lake the dog is now in danger of drowning.

Fortunately, all that was lost that day was one dog toy. As you will read in this month's article Keep Your Dog Safe Around the Pool this Summer, not all owners are as lucky. Many dogs do drown, especially when the summer sun finds dogs of all shapes and sizes in contact with backyard pools, beaches, lakes, stock ponds, and neighborhood swimming holes. This being the case, many dogs can benefit from a swimming lesson or two from a professional. Swimming is a great way for dogs to burn off excess energy and stay in shape. Although what dog owners must always remember is that swimming is best done in moderation, and always - safety first.
Other August features include:

Properly Diagnosing Canine Hypothyroidism - What are the Signs? - You probably know someone with an underactive thyroid gland; in fact, you may have one yourself. The signs of hypothyroidism in humans include a subnormal body temperature, cold hands and feet, weight gain, hair loss, and constant fatigue. People aren't the only ones afflicted by this disorder, for many dogs are hypothyroid, too. They may seem lethargic, gain weight while eating normal or below-normal amounts of food, seek warmth, and develop skin and coat conditions. But hypothyroidism causes other symptoms, too, and an accurate diagnosis can require thinking outside the box.

Force-Free Nail Trimming Techniques for Your Dog - Nail-trimming used to be so simple. You found a stalwart friend or family member to restrain your dog tightly while you quickly clipped his nails in spite of his struggles, trying not to "quick" him (by cutting a nail too short and making it bleed), which made him struggle harder each time. If you ran out of stalwart friends, you started dropping your dog off at your vet's office for nail clipping - out of sight, out of mind! He came back seemingly none the worse for wear - until your vet told you that they would need to start sedating him to trim his nails, after he tried to bite one of the techs. Hmm . . . maybe not so simple after all.

A Counter-Conditioning Protocol for Trimming Your Dog's Nails - Determine the location of touch your dog can tolerate without reacting fearfully or aggressively. Perhaps it's her shoulder, perhaps her elbow, or maybe her knee. She should be a little worried, but not growl or try to move away. This is called the threshold. With your dog on-leash, touch her briefly and gently at threshold. The instant your dog notices the touch, start feeding bits of chicken, non-stop. After a second or two, remove the touch and stop feeding chicken.

Frisbee Discs for Dogs - What's the Best Disc on the Market? - I used to live with a Frisbee-addicted dog (a Border Collie named Rupert), and a disc-addicted son, who is now off at college (and still addicted). So how is it that WDJ has never before reviewed flying disc toys for dogs? There is a wide variety of flying toys made for dogs, with different key features for different applications. The overarching concept is to create a disc that flies well enough to inspire a dog to chase it, catch it, and return with it uninjured. Most of us owners want a toy that won't be ruined within three catches between a dog's teeth, but you don't want it to be so tough that it can hurt a dog's teeth or mouth if he doesn't catch it perfectly.

Read More...

Spring/Summer Has Sprung, Sarah Bashaw, DVM

SPRING/SUMMER HAS SPRUNG!

BY: Sarah Bashaw, DVM, 

Spring has Sprung!  It’s a good time to start thinking about some of the spring and summertime hazards that the desert can present to your dog.  Being aware of some common desert dangers may very well help prevent an emergency trip to the veterinarian.
Rattlesnake season is fast approaching.  The approaching warm weather and adequate desert coverage may promote high numbers of rattlesnakes this year.  The best way to avoid a rattlesnake encounter is to avoid heavily brushed desert area.  However, it’s also the best time of year to go on desert hikes.  So what should you do?  Keep your dog on leash, and preferably one 10 foot or shorter.  Retractable leashes make it tougher for you to control your dog if they try to jump at something.  Rattlesnakes also can populate your yard.  Keep your bushes trimmed, and snake proof your exterior of the yard by using small chicken wire over holes in fences and at gates.
Rattlesnake training can be very effective at teaching your dog to avoid the sound of a rattle.  Professional rattlesnake training is available through Spike’s Treats in Fountain Hills.

A vaccine for rattlesnake bites can also help your dog survive a rattlesnake bite.  A rattlesnake bite is still an emergency even in vaccinated dogs, but they can recover more quickly and have less dramatic symptoms if they are vaccinated.  This vaccine is available through a veterinarian, and we do offer this service at El Dorado Animal Hospital in Fountain Hills.

Other desert critters can present a danger to your dog.  The bufo toad secretes a substance on its skin that causes convulsions when licked.  This toad prefers more wet weather, so this is something to watch out for during monsoon season.  If your dog licks a toad, immediately begin rinsing the mouth out with water for 10 to 20 minutes, then start heading to the veterinarian.

Scorpion stings, while painful, are not toxic to a dog’s internal system.  Some dogs may have an anaphylactic reaction to a sting, so if you see them get stung observe very closely for any swelling, hives, or vomiting.  Bee stings also can cause severe swelling in an allergic dog.  These signs should prompt you to take your dog to the veterinarian.

Desert flowers and plants can be very attractive to some dog’s taste buds.  There are several plants that are toxic, so it’s best to train your dog to avoid eating plants.  Several resources are available online to help you determine which plants are safe to have in your yard.

Cactus can be quite a nuisance if your pet gets into them, especially the teddy bear cholla.  Leashing your dog will help eliminate these unfortunate encounters.  If one occurs, the best thing to do is seek veterinary assistance.  Often it is much safer and less stressful for your dog to have a veterinarian to administer sedation to facilitate cactus spine removal.

Summertime heat is very dangerous, especially to dark coated dogs.  A good rule of thumb is that if you start to feel warm yourself, it may already be too warm for your dog to spend a significant amount of time outside.  At this point, find some shade and provide some water for your dog.   Remember, they are wearing a fur coat, and are barefoot on the asphalt.  Asphalt can burn sensitive foot pads.  Limit exercise to early morning and late evening hours in the summer.  Most important, never ever leave your pet unattended in a vehicle in Arizona for any length of time.  The strong Arizona sun can increase temperatures in your care to well over 100 degrees within minutes.

Watch your kids around water!  That includes the canine kids.  Some dogs aren’t very adept swimmers and can drown if unattended in the pool.  It’s a good idea to try to train your dog to swim to the steps, but if they aren’t good swimmers you should restrict their access to the pool.  Good swimmers should still be monitored, as swimming is hard work.  Don’t let them overdo it.  Watch for limping, as this may be a sign that your dog has scraped a pad on the rough pool decking.  Seek veterinary attention if you notice a wound.  Also, some heavy swimmers are at higher risk for ear infections.  Try to keep your dog’s ears clean and dry, and promptly seek an exam if you notice any discharge or inflammation.

Spending more time outdoors may increase your dog’s risk of contracting Valley Fever.  This is an infection with a soil borne fungus that is contracted through inhalation.  Signs can include, but are not limited to, a cough, fever, tiredness, limping (if the fungus reaches the bone), inappetance, difficulty breathing, or generalized ill feeling.  If any of these symptoms are noted, a veterinary check up and blood testing is in order.  Dogs cannot get Valley Fever from other dogs, nor can you contract it from your pet.  It is a year-round risk, but it tends to increase in frequency after storms that disrupt the spores from the soil.

Monsoon season can bring on thunderstorm anxiety. This a complex issue that some dogs develop, manifesting itself as fear or anxiety with the sounds and pressure changes that accompany storms.  If your dog exhibits even mild signs of thunderstorm anxiety, a behavioral and medical consultation with a veterinarian is recommended.

The hazards listed represent many of the desert dangers to watch out for, but is not an all inclusive list.

The staff at El Dorado Animal Hospital hope we can help you avoid desert hazards, and will be happy to answer any questions you may have. Visit our website at www.eldoradoanimalhospital.com  Our phone number is 480-837-0800, and we’d be happy to see you and your pet!

Sarah Bashaw, DVM

16765 E Parkview Ave.

Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

Phone: 480-837-0800

Fax: 480-428-6077

DrBashaw@ElDoradoAnimalHospital.com

 http://www.eldoradoanimalhospital.com

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Just Asking w/ Jungle Julie:

Q: What is your opinion on crate training and what advice do you give your clients on
using them

A: I am a firm believer that all dogs need to learn to , if not enjoy, then at least tolerate
being crated .Even if you have just adopted a dog and he is fully
house broken there may come a day that you will for some unforeseen reason need to
put him in a crate. If you have already worked with the crate and
your dog has made a positive association with it, you will have no worries. Of course
if you just got a new puppy then the crate can be your best friend
when you can't be keeping the necessary "eagle eye" on your pup. I recommend
playing crate games with your dog , using yummy foods and fun toys
that he only will have access to in the crate and above all make sure your attitude is
calm yet upbeat . If you feel sad when closing that crate door
your dog will intuitively pick up on this and respond accordingly.

Q. What if I have done my crate training but my dog still cries when i put him in the crate?

A. It's more of a question of what NOT to do. Do not look, talk or otherwise try and soothe
your dog. Do not take him out of the crate as he will quickly
learn barking/whining is the best way to get out. Then the next time you put him in the
crate, promising yourself that you will not cave to these antics,
what you will get is an even longer and louder period of barking/crying as you keep
setting the bar higher and higher in what he feels will work. This
scenario can escalate to amazing and almost tantrum like behavior and can be very
difficult to handle if it gets to this level. Wait and watch for the
opportunity when your dog is quiet and calm , however long it may take, approach
calmly and you may choose to either let him out at this time or
toss a very tasty treat in. When you do decide this crate session is over, do NOT throw
a party when your dog comes out. This sets up a big contrast
that coming out of the crate is a whole lot more fun then being in it ! Calmly and quietly
take your dog out for a potty or just turn your back on him and
let him amuse himself for a bit before engaging in any affection or game playing.

Q. You mentioned crate training games? What are those?

A. This is were you can use your creative mind and teach anything from hiding things

under bedding in the crate to even teaching your dog to open and
close the door to his own crate . But usually we start with just tossing treats into the
crate without shutting the door so that we build up the dogs drive
and excitement with running in and eating the treats. We then change the game to
having him go to into the crate before he can get his treats, to then
only getting the treats when the crate door is closed . At this stage, if done correctly,
your dog will be looking forward to that door closing and you
should almost be disappointed when the session is over. Keeping the sessions very
short but frequent and fun is the key.

Q. My dog doesn't seem to mind his crate and even will go in during the day for a nap but
when I close it to leave he cries.

A. That is undoubtedly because he has made the association that "closed-door= being left
alone". The best way to avoid this is to make sure your dog
spends some time in his crate when you are home, even if just for brief periods. You
can walk in and out of the room to let him know you are still there.
You can also include walking in and out of the room during your crate training game
time as you toss treats into the closed crate as you leave the
room.

Q. I have heard a lot about separation anxiety these days. Can you explain a bit about it
and how does one know if their dog is suffering from this

A. Separation anxiety can be a very difficult problem for dog and owner. Depending on
the severity, varying degrees of desensitization, counter
conditioning and other measures are usually called for and progress can sometimes
be slow and cause frustration for owners. Medications
may even be necessary but should only be used in conjunction with a behavior
modification program that you and a qualified trainer have put
into place as it is not a long term solution. Some signs of separation anxiety may
include shivering or cowering body language as you prepare
to leave, incessant barking/whining after you leave, coming home to destruction of
property or personal items and even urination/defecation
behavior. What can complicate the problem even further is the owner not realizing that
this is a stress related behavior and punishing the dog
upon arriving home. Such punishment can be physically pulling the dog over to the
area and saying such things as " did you do this ? " Many
people still are under the very false and damaging impression that our dogs will then
feel guilty as we see their heads hang low, their ears go flat,
or they get "squishy eyes". This is not your dog feeling guilt as they have no idea
what they did an hour ago or even 15 minutes ago. What they
are responding to is your body language and the energy you are giving off. Now they
are not only stressed about you leaving, they are stressed
about you coming home as well!

Q. Is their a way to prevent separation anxiety from happening ?

A. There are many ways to try and ensure that your dog is comfortable when alone. Such
things include sufficient physical exercise before you leave,
mental stimulation toys or food dispensing items that your dog only has access to
when you are away, practicing down/stay basic obedience exercises
where you can leave the room and your dog learns to stay and is rewarded for doing
so and of course the crate training/games we talked about .
Also the same " no party" rule applies when you come home from being away, whether
it's been 3 hours or 15 minutes. Always calmly enter so that

you can minimize the excitement factor and the emotional contrast of your arrival and
the dogs alone time. In addition, I like to mix up what is
called "departure cues". These are signals we give our dogs that we are leaving and
they learn them very quickly ! These signals include picking up
car keys, purse or other items , opening and closing garage doors and many other
signals you may not even be aware that you are giving. I will give
my dogs these signals then NOT LEAVE. That will help take the "I'm leaving" meaning
away from them and make them more neutral. I may even
use these items in game play/ mental stimulation sessions such as they are associated
with a reward such as teaching my dog to retrieve these items.

Q. Are certain dogs more prone to this?

A. Dogs who are shy and less confident can be more prone to developing separation
anxiety. Another type of dog that we may not consider who can
develop this is dogs who have owners who rarely leave the home. I encourage owners
with this life style to actually get out of the house and
just go to the grocery store or even take a walk on a regular basis so that their dog can
practice being alone!

Q. Would getting another dog to keep your dog company be helpful ?

A. In almost all cases the answer to that question would be no. It has not been shown to
be helpful and can sometimes even cause more frustration as
now the owner has two dogs who's emotional and physical needs must be met.

Q. You mentioned food dispensing toys earlier. Can you give a few examples?

A. There are so many new and interesting items now on the market to keep our dogs
mentally stimulated! But one of the easiest things you can do is
take one of the meals you would normally feed out of a bowl and put it in a Kong and
freeze it. If you feed kibble, you can soak it in some water and
in a few hours it turns into lovely mush that you can then stuff into the Kong and it
freezes beautifully. There are many creative people who have
shared their "Kong recipes" on the internet as well. Also you can get tennis balls and
poke a hole big enough for the kibble to roll out and separate
your dogs meal into 10 tennis balls and hide them all over the house. Of course you
must be sure that your dog will not eat the tennis balls as well so
always make sure your food dispensing toys have been tested while you are at home.
Two of my personal favorites are " The Everlasting Treat
Ball" and the "Bob-a-Lot made by Star Mark. They are extremely durable for most
dogs and long lasting. I do like to rotate my food dispensing toys
to avoid boredom.

www.JungleJulieDogTraining.com 



For more information about proper training methods Spike’s Treats highly recommends
you contact:
Jungle Juile Tell: 480-390-9152 
email: juliek8355@aol.com .
Or contact Michelle & Ronnie
Spike’s Treats: 480-334-1949 
email spike@spikestreats.com .

Welcome to our Spike's Treats Blog!

Our Mission is to share with you the extensive and continuing knowledge we learn on a daily basis so your pets can enjoy the lifestyle they truly deserve. Spike's Treats is committed to providing you with a portal into happier and healthier lives for your special pawed members of the family! 

Spike’s Treats owners Ronnie Sells & Michelle Adams began their quest for becoming more knowledgeable about pet nutrition, wellness, and natural alternatives during the 10-year life span of their beloved Pit Bull (or American Staffordshire Terrior) Spike.

During Spike’s life they discovered many incredible resources and informative guides in becoming more educated about pet nutrition and wellness.  Before losing Spike to cancer and a long-term heart related birth defect, they frequented a local pet bakery and all natural food supply in St. Louis, Missouri, which inspired them to get involved in this type of business and give back to other pets and pet owners.

Spike’s spirit is still very much alive and has been the inspiration all along in making this store a reality. They've dedicated the store in Spike's honor and celebrate his life through assisting other pets and pet owners in achieving optimal pet health. Spike's Treats takes great care in hand baking all natural treats for pets as well as supplying a wide array of all-natural/holistic pet foods, and supplements. Spike's Treats also carry toys, collars, accessories, and beds.

SHOP AT SPIKE'S TREATS AND HELP HOMELESS ANIMALS! Besides offering great products and services, Spike's Treats is enthusiastically dedicated to supporting many organizations for homeless animals.  Please consult the Events Page on this site and Spike's Facebook Page for information and upcoming events on how you can participate in these worth while causes.

We are located at:
Plaza Fountainside12645 N Saguaro Blvd.  STE 14
Fountain Hills, AZ 85268
Right next to the Beautiful Fountain Lake. "Home of the World's Tallest Fountain"

VISIT US AT:

http://SpikesTreats.com