What’s Up with The Pet Guardian

Dear Readers,

Father’s Day, June 20th, 2010 was a very sad day for my husband and me.  Our dog, Casey (Cassandra Mae), passed away.  As you may recall, she was 13 years old.  She was a Rotti, Small Doberman, Chow mix.  Her battle with stomach cancer and arthritis came to an end.  Her cancer ruptured and she was bleeding internally.  She could no longer eat, drink or wanted to walk or stand. She weighted approx 30-40lbs and was black, brown, and white.  She was quite a photogenic member of our family.

Casey will be remembered as a loving, devoted, very protective companion.  She taught me how to manage her “good dog, mean dog” trick.  I would rub her hind leg and say “mean dog” and she would show her teeth and growl.  Then I would say “good dog” and she’d stop.  SHE WILL BE SURELY MISSED!!!

My husband and I have the memories and the comfort knowing we made her life a happy one.  We always showed her love, respect and kindness.  People who love, respect and give their pets a good life are WINNERS!!  Those who choose to neglect, abuse, and mistreat their pets are LOSERS!  People who do those things are not good adults.  They grow up with violent, inappropriate characteristics and it carries over into adulthood.  Low self esteem plays a big part in this equation as well.  They do not make good husbands, fathers, or sons, and lots of times friends.  In a woman’s case, bad mothers, wives, daughters and friends.  And we all know people like this firsthand.  They think abusing a pet makes them appear “BIG and BAD” when in actuality, it’s quite the opposite.  I see them as SMALL and SCARED.  And, as much as there is “Unnecessary abusive Owners”, there are as many really “loving Pet Owners.”

I say unnecessary, because it really is.  There is no sane reason to abuse your pet.  No reason, no situation, acceptable, only for a cowardly bulling, controlling attitude.  Two things I highly disrespect — child abuse and animal abuse, and they are connected.  It is never too late to change your attitude towards your pet and others. Believe me your friends and family will approve of the new you and respond with love. In this world we cannot go back, only go forward.  Pets are loving, giving, respectful animals and should be treated as such.  I am PRAYING for a no tie law to pass in North Carolina where every pet will live inside their homes with its family.

Just as we need to examine ourselves as to where we are in our lives and walk with GOD, we need to examine ourselves in regards to our relationship with our pet.  Are we treating them properly?  Isn’t it time we put our pets where they belong?  Television tells us every day, why is it we don’t get it?  Why does it take us so long to see the light?  Are we not looking? Or are we just avoiding the concept?  Your TV is putting all dogs on a higher level, with intelligence.  When will you see your dogs worth too?  Gone are the days when they were just tied outside alone.  If I am describing you, you are living in the past!

It is time to step up to the plate and acknowledge your pet’s worth.  Get with the program!  Just like dead beat dads and moms, there are dead beat pet owners.  There is no reason for you to wear that label.  Live in your home with your pet, love and respect each other and help each other enrich and bond your lives.  If you have a computer I welcome you to go to www.petheaven.com and click on memorials.  Go to May 20th 2010 and view Casey’s name.  It’s such a nice way to honor her, for her years of faithful service in our family.

C– COURAGEOUS (protector)

A –ALERT (willing to learn)

S– SPONTANEOUS( motivated)

E– ENERGETIC(loved tricks)

Y– YARD( her favorite place to play ball)

Your Pet Guardian…

What’s Up with The Pet Guardian

Here it is, July.  Children are out of school for the summer, and there is so much to look forward to… Summer camp, YMCA, Vacation Bible School, family vacations, cook outs, and just plain lazy hot summer sleeping in your hammock kind of days.  “VACATION” is such a wonderful word, and its contents have many directions; North, South, East and West, Mountains and Beaches.  Our minds are full of destinations, as well as expectations.  How far will we travel?  How long will it take us to get there?  Then there is packing. What to bring and what to leave home?  Stopping newspaper delivery, and held mail at the post office.  So many things to consider!  With the first question being — who’s all going? Once that’s all decided, then we need to plan our destination, arrival and departure time, what clothes need packing, can’t forget medication, then there’s the dog, or dogs and cat.

Pets need to be in a safe carrier or crate, unless in an approved pet car seat for safety. They also will need their pet license, rabies tag, and medical information and medicine as well as food and water bowls, collar, leashes, toys and treats and motion sickness medicine if needed.  On the road, they will need air when it’s hot and heat when it’s cold.  NEVER EVER make a pit stop leaving your pet in the car or RV without ventilation, and even then if it’s too hot, 70 degrees or above outside, it is too hot for them inside as the level of heat will exceed the outside temperature by at least 10 degrees.   It is best to take them out to stretch, do their business, eat and drink and keep cool.

When we travel back home from vacation, it is a 12 hour drive, but it takes us 3 additional hours as we stop for the rest room, food and care for our dogs. We try to find a spot with a park nearby so we can play ball and give them some much needed energy release. It’s a long drive and they get bored as we do.  If it gets too hot in the car and our air can’t keep up, we stop on a dirt road and let them all lie down under a shady tree until after 4pm then we start out again. Outside heat reaches its peak at 3pm.  Nighttime is the best time for driving with pets.  Never let your dog hang their head out of the window.  I see so much of that here in the South, and I don’t think owners realize the trouble that can bring.  Dirty debris on the road and the wind can cause bad eye and head injuries, as well as infection of the eyes. On the other side of the coin are dogs riding in back of open pickup trucks out in the sun.  Eighty degrees and higher is heat stroke time, not to mention the truck body gets too hot from the sun’s rays and too hot for the dogs paws; especially for dogs lying on top of a chrome toolbox in the sun.  I am sure we all have seen this before!!

When it gets too hot outside, dogs need to be inside the vehicle, cooled by the air or left home with the air conditioner on.  Never leave your pet in a closed up vehicle in the heat.  Inside your vehicle, heat increases by at least 10 degrees.   If it’s 75 degrees outside, you can bet it’s at least 85 degrees or more inside your vehicle.  Please be a responsible pet owner, and respect your pet enough to keep it cool and safe.  Outside dogs need a cool insulated dog house positioned in the shade, preferable under a tree or shady corner of the yard.  They also need clean, fresh, cold water and good quality food.

If your vacation takes you away, but not your pet, you need to make necessary arrangements for its care during your absence through boarding or a responsible family member or friend who can come to your pet at least twice a day to check on and feed and care for the pet’s needs.  Cats can be left at home alone provided they have a clean litter box, clean fresh water and good clean food accessible to them. But, if your vacation takes you away for more than a few days, you will need a responsible person to care for the cat, replenish the bowl of food and water and to clean the litter box.

So before you leave for that get away in the Bahamas make clear responsible arrangements for your pet!  Depending on where you are going, the best arrangement for your furry family member is — with you!!  But when that is impossible, safety arrangements must be made.

To all my Readers out there who are traveling this summer for enjoyment — I wish you a safe, fun filled vacation!!  And, to the nice ladies I met at the Veterinarian office on May 19th, IT WAS A PLEASURE TO MEET YOU!!

Dog Heatstroke: Symptoms, Treatment, And Prevention

Dog heatstroke can strike in minutes on hot, humid days and may prove fatal if not treated promptly. Heat stroke occurs when your dog no longer is able to maintain his or her normal body temperature of approximately 101F, and it rises to 105F and above.  Symptoms are: excessive panting, pale gums, bright red tongue, disorientation, doesn’t respond to when called, increased heart rate, thick saliva, vomiting, breathing difficulties, collapsing, coma, death.

Make sure you pet is out of the sun and has access to water, but don’t let him drink too much.  Cool him with tepid water, immerse him in a cool bath, gently hose him or apply cool towels to his body.  Do NOT leave wet towels on your dog and do not use very cold water.  Move your dog to an area that has air conditioning or a fan.  Keep monitoring your dog’s temperature with a rectal thermometer until temperature is normal.  While you are cooling your dog, call the local emergency Vet and explain the situation and perform any additional treatment they suggest before taking him to the Vet office.  It is wise to still have your pet checked for a thorough check up in case your pet might have internal damage to their organs.

Dogs prone to Heatstroke are young puppies and older dogs, overweight dogs, dogs with existing illnesses, or recovering from illness or surgery, dog breeds with short faces, like bulldogs, Sharpeis, Boston terriers and pugs; and double coated breeds like chow chows, and dogs bred for cold elements like malamutes, huskies, and Newfoundlands.  Be aware that outside temperatures can be much hotter than that shown on your thermometer, and on humid days the relative temperature much higher.

WHAT’S UP WITH THE PET GUARDIAN

One of our dogs had her 13th birthday the end May. How time flies. It seems that not long ago she was just a puppy. Every day she gets her vitamins, glucosamine and chondroitin  for her hips and bones. She has arthritis and when the weather is cold or wet she suffers more pain. It is then I also give her one Rimadyl pill, which with continued use over a long period of time has a negative effect on her liver. When your dog or cat gets older, you have to make some choices for them and they are never easy ones to make. We can stop her Rimadyl which will be better for her liver, but leave her in pain and tenderness to the touch.  The two choices are: living longer in pain opposed to living a shorter life with less pain. My husband and I had to think on it and weigh the negative verses the positive.  She cannot tell us what she wants to do, so we have to choose for her.

We put ourselves in her place and went for the less painful shorter life.  However lately with her glucosamine and chondroitin, she runs like a puppy and does not need to have any Rimadyl. Those days as my husband and I watch her  play, we feel the happiest.  She seems to have so much more life to live, and most important, she is happy.   I am spending more one on one time with her now to make her last years the very best she has.  Older dogs should not be forgotten, mistreated or tossed aside.  They have given many years of their life to you to enjoy and were faithful, non judgmental family members.  You wouldn’t think twice about taking good care of your parents as they age.  So why not the same for your pet. So many older dogs are left behind in the shelter, some by unforseen circumstance, others by neglect. It was not meant to be this way!   They deserve a good life no matter how long they have. They are just  as good as the puppies, they just have seen a lot more of life, and if they could speak they would have some stories to tell.

As I look at my Casey (Cassandra) I feel proud  of her faithfulness to me and her protection and love the past 13 years. I reward her with treats, hugs and kisses, car rides, smiles and make her as comfortable as I can (warm fuzzy bed and blanket, good food, clean fresh water and her medicine). I will never be ready to let her go because my love for her is so deep. I know I can’t stop it from happening, so I will do my best to treat her well while she is still here. Everyone loves a puppy  and that’s ok, but lets not forget the older dog in the shelter who is waiting and wanting a good home. They make EXCELLENT pets, lots of good company and very little training. Shouldn’t their last years be wonderful too?   Remember every old dog started out as a puppy. Make June the month you adopt an older dog and give both of you a good life together; one full of love, respect and responsibility. I recently visited the Cleveland County Animal Shelter on Airport Road in Shelby and was amazed at all the wonderful older and younger dogs and cats there needing a permanent home. You will find many different breeds and sizes but they all share one goal, to be adopted by a loving family who will care for them and let them return their love. Afterall, isn’t that what we humans want too? So Dear Readers, visit your local animal shelter and pick out your forever family member and tell them “Your Pet Guardian”  sent you. “HAPPY ADOPTION!”

What’s Up with The Pet Guardian

Little Bailey is ready for her luah!

By Anonymous Contributor

Can pets make you healthier? Yes, they can!   On many mornings when the tide is low at Singing Beach, Maryland, a tiny poodle and a frisky terrier mutt can be found romping on the sand. Behind them is there owner Angela, age 54, who has progressive multiple sclerosis. But, she walks along the shore anyway because Misty and Cassy provide her with the motivation in spite of her physical difficulties. Angela was diagnosed with MS in 2004. The next year, she and her husband rescued Misty, a dog with deformed legs that needed surgery. Once healed, Misty became an ocean of calm for Angela. The little dog went everywhere with her.  Misty helped her define what her life might become. Misty would curl up on her lap to calm Angela down. She eventually had her trained as a therapy dog, and the two visited the nursing homes to offer others the same comfort. Last year Angela adopted Cassy. Angela is limited by how  far and  fast she can walk, but Cassy gets her to do the most she can. Angela’s experience with pets underscores what most people already believe. Having a pet is good for you. In fact, about 60% of households have a pet.

Renowned primatologist, Jane Goodall, author of Hope For Animals and Their World spent 45 years studing chimpanzees in Tanzania. She knows first hand about the healing power of animals. People living with beloved pets tend to get sick less often and to live longer than those without pets in their lives. There is scientific evidence that proves, beyond a doubt, that the presence of a dog or cat or other friendly and gentle animal can bring about psychological and physiological changes, such as lowering blood pressure. Stroke victims make new efforts to move semi-paralyzed limbs in order to stroke a friendly animal. Increasingly,  the therapeutic power of animals is being recognized. Hospitals and long term facilities are  hosting programs in which volunteers bring certified therapy animals to visit patients. As you walk calmly from room to room you can almost sense a healthy lowering of blood pressure among patients who smile with delight and pet and fuss over the dogs. For many patients, the dogs are the bright spots of their day.When people stroke or caress pets the central nervous system “feel good hormones “ such as dopamine, endorphins and especially oxytocin which promotes calm and warmth  are released. Also, the stress hormone cortisol  decreases.

Dogs offer more than just mood altering effects. With their sense of smell, at least 10,000 times more powerful than ours, dogs can detect changes in human body chemistry. A dog can alert a person in advance of an on coming epileptic seizure or detect a potentially life threatening drop in blood sugar 10 to 15 minutes before any glucose meter does. These talented dogs can even dial 911 on a specially programmed phone.  Children who have trouble relating to people often have no trouble relating to dogs. Children have natural connections to dogs  because dogs are non judgemental and accepting, they don’t demand anything; therefore making them very impressionable on childrens behavior.

Lets not forget our feline friends. Fifty-four year old cancer survivor, Pat, credits her cat, Chloe, with motivating her to battle a near fatal infection she suffered after chemotherapy and radiation. She kept a picture of Chloe on her hospital bed knowing she had to get better to come home to her. She defied her doctors prognosis, fought the infection and got well enough to go home in a week.

Whether it’s a dog or cat or other pet you prefer, it is important to pick the one thats appropriate for how much time and energy you have to devote to the pet. A well behaved dog requires training, exercise, patience and attention and most of all LOVE !!  Cats on the other hand, are lower maintenance pets. They are self cleaning and only require a litter box. And there is no walking them. You don’t have to look  far to find these creatures of comfort and love; your local animal shelter has lots to choose from. You can adopt a homeless pet and not only be giving an animal a much needed and deserved home, but also create a more loving home for yoursel, one where you are loved for yourself and not judged. So Please Dear Readers, consider very carefully your responsibilty in making this all inportant decision to adopt a pet. They will meet your needs but you must also meet theirs. They are your Faithful, Loving and Dedicated Friend. Check out your Cleveland County Animal Shelter for price and availability.  1601 Airport Rd. Shelby.  704-481-9884.  Save two lives, Yours and the Pets!   I Pray You Have A Blessed May.    Your Pet Guardian

What’s Up with The Pet Guardian

Here is March and it’s starting to warm up after all the cold and snowy weather. On our way to Church Sunday we passed a couple walking their two German Shepards. My husband gave them the thumbs up sign as a good job gesture. It’s so nice to see people interacting with their pet.

Our Rosebud just turned one year-old last month and she knows her come, sit, stay, wait and leave it commands. What a pleasure when you can give a command and your pet responds.They are so much more sociable with just those few basic commands. Because she is still young and rather frisky and high level energy she still wants to do things her way. But then I use the sit, down and stay command in that order to slow her focus on her actions. It works like a distraction with people. You try to remember what you were talking about before someone called your name or interupted your line of thinking. It works. It stops the bad behavior, whether it is jumping on people, or playing to rough, or really any situation you want to stop and it will not hurt your pet. It just changes their mind set to something else more pleasant. Even stressed situations can be helped by this easy command.

I started every morning when I brought Rosebud in from the yard after potty time. I put her on her leash and took her to the table and made her sit, then down and stay while I had my morning coffee, with her leash over my lap but still connected. Now she comes in from the yard and comes to the table and does her commands on her own without being told. It is not hard to do. It calms them down and trains them at the same time.

So Dear Readers, tommorrow morning while your pet is outside taking care of business, get your coffee on the table and get leash in hand and be prepared to teach your frisky, high energy baby a new lesson. You will enjoy it so much, you will want to do it too!

You are the pack leader (the boss). Earn your pets respect and you will love living with your pet. Dogs years ago were not domesticated, therefore they lived and traveled in packs much like wolves do. Therefore it is in their genes to be taught by their pack leader. A good pack leader brings up a good pack of dogs. The pack is at the pack leaders mercy and does so with respect and expectations. The pack trusts the leader to lead them to safety in any given situation. And when one dog is too old or not well the leader knows when it is time to let that dog stay and will make another dog stay with it until death. While the rest of the pack moves on knowing the remaining dog will catch up later. That particular dog will become second pack leader and will take the main pack leaders place when it can no longer go on due to sickness, injury, or age. All the other dogs in the pack recognize this and accept and respect the new pack leader. Do not let your team down. Whether there is one or more dogs, you are the leader he or she look up to for commands. Sometimes they appear to be a little stubborn on the onset, but with patience and discipline you can achieve this goal and feel so fullfilled yourself over your new found respected label “Pack leader.”

As I have said many times before a well behaved dog is a disciplined dog. Other people will admire you and your dog when seen on park outings where your dog will show off his commands. Many people have approached me while my Big Boy Brutus watches me and waits for his next command  and wanted to know how he does it, and admires how well he listens. It fills me with pride and will you as well. As the weather is getting warmer there is no better time than now to start to change you and your pets life together for the good. Take advantage of this beautiful state of N.C. with its many mountains and parks to take your dog on a long nature walk enjoying each others company. Your dog is your life long friend with no boundries. Take advantage of a good thing. Spend some one on one quality time with your best friend soon. Walking clears your mind, refreshes your soul, and guarantees you both a good nights sleep. God Bless and Happy Spring!

- Your Pet Guardian

What’s Up with The Pet Guardian

Even though it is cold outside, we are all warm and fuzzy inside as we think about our loved ones on Valentine’s Day. It would be nice to celebrate Valentine’s Day as “Give A Heart Month”, your heart to your pet month.  Shower  them with affection (petting and hugs and maybe even a kiss or two on their heads wouldn’t hurt).  Put their sweater or coat on for trips outside (maybe one that you have knited yourself ).  Warm up their water if it’s outside by their dog house.  Give them wholesome good brand dog food to keep them full and warm.

No Chocolate Please, as it is poison to your pet.  In keeping with my newly acclaimed Give A Heart Month, I welcome all of your opinions and responses on my monthly articles.  I want to hear from you and especially how you feel about my articles and your opinion on my topics.  My articles are only my opinion and are meant to educate and provide topics for your reading enjoyment. I Pray in some way I have accomplished that.

Therefore I am including an e-mail address where you can speak your mind on these articles.  My love for animals leads me in this direction.  Now I know there are many animal lovers like me out there, so please take the time to respond.   So Dear Readers, I welcome your responses. May the love in your heart overflow and shower your loved ones and pets this month and always. Happy Valentines and Give A Heart Month!

JOKE:  A couple of dog owners are arguing about whose pet is smarter ‘My dog is so smart “ says the first owner “that every morning he waits for the paper boy to come around, he tips the kid and then brings the newspaper to me, along with my morning coffee.”  “I know” says the second owner. “How do you know?” ……… My dog told me.

Your Pet Guardian:   petguardian2010@hotmail.com

The Pet Guardian

What’s Up with The Pet Guardian

North Carolina sure is cold this winter!  We moved here to get away from the cold, but I think it followed us!!  With the temperature falling, we feel so grateful to have heat we can turn up to keep warm.

This past week our three dogs who usually play outdoors in the fenced in yard for 2-3 hours , are spending much less time there as the temperature dropped below forty. They go out to play and spend 15-20 minutes and right back in the house. Once in, they sleep and snore.  They have a good life and do not want to be out in the cold.  I can’t say that I blame them!

All our dogs are medium sizwe weighing from 35lbs.to over 100lbs. I can’t imagine a small dog 4-30lbs being outside in an uninsulated dog house in this weather. Yet, I am bound to see it all around Shelby.  It saddens me to see these poor defenseless dogs and puppies out in  the cold.  It forces me to wonder,  “How would their owner like being out there in a old dog house with no warmth, and no coat on?”  These owners should be made to  experience the condition they submit their dog to!   Some dogs like St Bernards, Chows, Border Collies and other large breeds have enough fur to keep them warm and  prefer to be outside during the day. But, small to  medium size dogs with short fur cannot bear that extreme cold.  I saw an extremely small mixed breed dog  tied to a dog house.  How cruel is that? Those owners should be made to join their dog outside!  It makes me wonder if the owner has a heart or enough common sense to comprehend the needs of their pet.  No animal should  be treated this way!   It is cruel and inhumane, and is against the law.

If you live in Pennsylvania and purchase a dog license, on the back of that license it states that no dog is to be left tied out in the cold, and the owner will be fined and do jail time.  Now I’m sure Shelby animal control has the same or similiar law. Yet, owners persist in this cruel behavior.  In my mind no dog should be an outside dog.  They should instead be a contributing and enjoyable family member, getting the attention and love they deserve.  Which brings me to the thought  —-   If they treat the dog that way, wouldn’t they also treat their small child the same way?   I think so!   I truly believe animal abuse and child abuse go hand in hand.  What a SICK WORLD  we live in!

So Dear Readers, I ask you to do the right thing, use common sense and affection  with your pet.  Let them live in your home with you, be a useful contributing member of your family and keep them safe and warm during this cold season.

Also remember, in winter, dogs require more food for body warmth, and  to help keep up their resistence to  cold weather. They also need a longer walk or more play time to keep off the extra pounds. Just like people, eating more and exercising less puts on the weight.  Come summer you can again cut back on their food intake, as they get more exercise in warmer weather.  Our big yellow lab enjoys an hour walk in the cold brisk air alongside our smaller dogs, who are wearing their sweaters. Walking your dog is beneficial even on cold days.  It is much different then being tied out in the cold. They get their circulation going while walking which in turn helps to keep them warmer. Think of it this way, would you be warmer walking on a cold day  or tied to a dog house laying on the ground?  And, walking is so good for their total health!  Dogs were meant to walk, just like fish are meant to swim. Exercise is good for man and dog alike. Just ask your doctor!! It also guarantees  a good night’s sleep for everyone!

Stay warm and happy walking!

- Your Pet Guardian

What’s Up With The Pet Guardian

Christmas is drawing near, our tree is up and decorated and all the lights are up inside and out. Christmas stockings are hung on the mantle over the fireplace. This year we have 8 in all, 3 in memory of Molly, Sheiba, and Mixer. Big Boy Brutus , Casey, and Rosebud’s stockings are stuffed with their favorite dog treats. My husbands and mine are stuffed with glittery gifts for each other.

In our house Christmas is for the whole family. I just have to mention the word Christmas, and all 3 tails wag. Dogs do not know the meaning of the word Christmas as we do, but they can feel the excitement and enthusiasm in us. They feel there is something different going on around the house and in us. Every year I drag out three Reindeer ear hats and they get excited knowing they will be wearing them. Everyone sits patiently while waiting for the camera to take their picture with them on. I started my Christmas shopping , but have a long way to go as we have a big family which includes 25 grandchildren of various ages and 5 young great grandchildren. Most of our children have at least one pet each.

My husband and I are very active in our Church and just sang for our Christmas cantata. We are spending Christmas Day with our children who live here in N.C. The rest of our children live in different states– Missouri, N.Y. State, Hawaii. Although we are miles apart we are close in heart. It is such a comfort to have our pets this time of year. Many older people who live alone have their best, forever friend by their side to comfort and love them unconditionally.

We have been watching all the Christmas specials on TV and realized how many had pets included in them. And of course there were a lot of yellow labs.Even our commercials have cute little yellow labs. Watching the AKC Dog Show, they are just starting to recognize one of our dogs. A Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever. (cocker spaniel- golden retriever mix) Rosebud looks Golden Retriever but much smaller. Last week my husband was outside picking up all the branches that had fallen down in our back yard, Rosebud was helping carry up all the smaller branches she could handle to the top of the hill leading into the woods. She saw him carry branches and volunteered to help. It was so cute !!!  Retrievers are always looking for a job to do, if not given one they will find one on their own.

While Christmas shopping I saw many cute dogs wearing Christmas sweaters, boots, and hats too!  It warms my heart to see the love between dog and owner. There is nothing nicer then a warm fire, Christmas decorations on , a good Christmas movie, and our 3 dogs laying on the rug in front of the fireplace . We are all comfy and cozy together. Can it get any better then this ?

So Dear Readers, do not forget your best friend this Christmas. Also let us not forget our families, friends and yes, even our Veternarian, who cares for our pets all year.  We must not forget to show love, one to another !   Maybe there is someone alone for Christmas who would appreciate a visit or call or gift or even a place at your table for Christmas, it could mean so very much to them.  Let us open our heart this year and reach out to someone near and I pray this feeling and goodwill will last all year !   As our Lord Jesus loves us unconditionally all year, every year!

We “WISH YOU AND YOURS A VERY MERRY BLESSED CHRISTMAS, AND A HEALTHY NEW YEAR”

Till 2010, I remain - Your Pet Guardian

What’s Up with The Pet Guardian

This song was made famous in 1965 by singer Tom Jones.  All kittens, Calico and Orange Tabby, Maltese and Siamese are all sweet babies needing care and love as any other pet. They can be so comical to watch at play, especially if there is more then one.

Cats and kittens have no boundry issues, they do not require a license or collar and leash.  But, they still need proper care and guidance for safety.  Kittens and cats love to play with electrical and venetian blind cords, safety first is very important !! They can be kept inside the home or out or both. The Humane Society strongly urges they be kept indoors for safety and longeivity. Good hunters can get sick eating a rabid or spoiled wild animal.  Kept inside they are at the mercy of their owners to provide clean food and water.

Immunizations are very important and should be kept up to date for their health and well being.  Any pet store or department store such as Wal-mart or K mart sell neat toys that are safe for your feline.  I have known owners who have taught their cat tricks and commands, as well as walking on a leash.  Felines are very smart and with consistent companionship they can learn lots of neat tricks, such as walking a tight rope, climbing a ladder, jumping through hoops, and so much more! Only we put limits on our pets!  They are open minded, owner pleasing, loving part of our family.

Years ago there were great myths at Halloween time about cats and witches, and of course the old Myth “ It’s bad luck if a black cat crosses your path” . They are just that,  myths! Dogs and cats started out as just an animal with little if any emphasis on care and have blossomed into so much more!  Todays owners dress their pets in costumes, coats, hats and sweaters, and even dress them as their favorite rock star or movie idol. I know a woman who loves Barbie Dolls, and collects them , she also painted the interior of her house pink. Her cat wears a Barbie dress, which she herself made.

Many of our pets are now living inside our home and have become a family member. I think it is wonderful! Today dogs are smart enough to detect cancer in their owners and have saved their owners life. There are handicap dogs, rescue dogs, drug detecting dogs, high explosive detecting dogs, and CATS are now catching up to dogs in detecting health issues in their owners as well.

So Dear Readers, please do not put a limit on your cats abilities, instead nuture, love and bond with your cat. He or she may someday save your life! They are your best friend and deserve your respect, love and commitment!  As the holiday season draws near, please remember safety first and keep all balls, garland , and cords out of your dog or cats reach!

And let us not forget to thank our God for our many blessings  throughout the year, as well as thankful hearts for our living, breathing, companion and friend, our pets!   From our home to your, my husband and I and family members, Big Boy Brutus, Cassandra Mae, and Rosebud, wish you and yours a “Very Happy Thanksgiving” and may God bless !!!

- Your Pet Guardian

What’s Up With The Pet Guardian

There are many good pet sitting business’s in N.C. As I was looking for a job approx. 4 years ago, I came across very good Veterinarian services which included pet boarding. I can honestly say my own Veterinarian is a very good place. But, if you are looking for more one on one time for your pet during your absence, let me suggest “Unique Pet Sitting” in Shelby. I had the opportunity to spend one day there helping out and got to see first hand up close the excellent care given each and every pet. Each kennel gets cleaned every day as many times as needed, there are also outside and inside kennels, your choice.Food and always fresh clean water supplied. If your pet is on medication or special diet their need will most definitely be met. When visiting there you may see ferrets, snakes, parrots and of course dogs and cats and any other animal imagineable. 3 to 5 times a day every dog gets exercise and affection in a fenced in area. There is also security fencing and closed circut monitoring 24 hours a day, seven days a week for your pets safety. Each pet gets one on one affection on a daily basis. If your pet becomes sick, the Veterinarian of your choice will be notified, and your pet taken care of as necessary. The owners are dedicated, loving, Christian people making your pets needs first and foremost priority. I am not in any way recommending them for my own gain , or getting paid to promote their business. I am an animal lover with a strong desire to inform my readers of an excellent facility. Did I forget to mention? Unique Pet Sitting is like an expensive resort without the pool and without the high price tag !!! So readers do yourself and your pet a favor and check out this extremely impressive facility. Unique Pet Sitting -Shelby N.C.  704-434-2026.   Till next time, HAPPY BOARDING!   Your Pet Guardian