october 5 & 6, 2016
All About Pets
ALL ABOUT PETS
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October 5 & 6, 2016
COME
T A E R T R TRICK O with us at the
16th Annual
P.A.W.S. WALK th October 8 1 night f o c urtesy o n In Americ Motel
Adult and Youth Top Fundraiser Prizes!
Pet & Peo ple costume contest!
P.A.W.S. WALK Trick or Treat Sponsors: Kind Veterinary Clinic First National Bank Loyal Pet Cremation Services McDonalds of St. Peter River Rock Coffee Erin Kreminski-Merck Animal Health Whiskey River Do It Best St Peter Lumber The Blue Buffalo Company MGM 4 The Team Kwik Trip
Culligan Hometown Bank Dairy Queen Nelson Printing Brandt Law Arby’s AmericInn Rising Sun Chiropractic Godfather’s Pizza VonEssen Towing Topper’s Plus The Cheese & Pie Mongers Hesse Insurance
Kokomo’s Bar & Grill Consolidation Communications Pepsi of Mankato Patrick’s on Third Her Happy Place Swine Vet NAPA of St. Peter Ed Allen Designs
Event supports local impounded animals
Held at the Mill Pond Park (Rain or Shine) The walk begins at 10 a.m. Costume Contest 11:45 a.m. Games, Entertainment, & Concessions Registration forms available at Kind Vet or the City Municipal Office
Cats and dogs can peacefully coexist in homes, especially when pet owners exercise patience and emphasize socialization.
Do cats and dogs really fight like cats and dogs?
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ats and dogs have long been depicted as ardent foes, consistently getting into scrapes with one another. But are those claims exaggerated? Many cats and dogs peacefully coexist in their homes, where their divergent personalities combine to make homes more interesting. Cats and dogs tend to have different body language, but that should not be mistaken for opposition. Take, for example, a boisterous puppy who excitedly approaches visitors with its tail wagging to show friendliness. According to the animal experts at SlimDoggy. com, a resource for dog food, fitness and fun, cats interpret wagging tails as signs of anger or displeasure. Dogs like to sniff their “friends” and get to know them, and cats don’t favor this attention. When sniffed, cats may run off, unintentionally triggering dogs’ natural predator instincts. Such an instance is a rough way for cats and dogs to begin a relationship, and it’s easy to see how such an introduction can lay a poor foundation for their relationship. Cats and dogs also have different social styles. While a cat may be content to be alone and approach visitors cautiously,
dogs tend to be sociable and rush into situations if they think there is fun to be had. But cats and dogs can peacefully coexist. One way to foster a good relationship between cats and dogs is to control their initial introduction. If possible, separate the animals initially, giving cats a chance to warm up to their new situation. Upon introducing the two, it may be best to have the dog on a leash so that you can control its desire to lunge. Calmness is key; do not force the cat to come to the dog or vice versa. Reward calm behavior with treats. Repeat these steps until the pets appear to be used to each other. It’s important that pet owners recognize that, while cats and dogs may peacefully coexist in a home most of the time, their natural instincts may kick in every so often. Just separate the pets if they have a tiff. Rumors abound that cats and dogs can’t share a home, but that’s simply not true. With some early socialization, patience on the part of pet owners and an understanding of cat and dog behaviors, pet parents can ensure both cats and dogs live together in harmony.
ALL ABOUT PETS
October 5 & 6, 2016
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St. Peter P.A.W.S. 16th Annual Halloween Fundraiser
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ost or abandoned animals found in St. Peter, Kasota, or Nicollet county, are impounded at Kind Veterinary Clinic. Cities and law enforcement agencies cover the boarding fees for 5 days to allow owners time to claim the animal but after that there is no financial obligation to the animal. In order to give some wonderful animals another chance at life the P.A.W.S. (Providing Animals With Shelter) fund was created. This fund also assists surrendered animals, many of which would be abandoned if surrendering was not an option. P.A.W.S. is solely funded by the annual P.A.W.S. Walk fundraiser and generous donors throughout the year. Please join us for our 16th Annual P.A.W.S. Walk fundraiser this year on Saturday, October 8th, 2016, at the Mill Pond, Riverview Park, St. Peter, from 9:30 a.m. – noon. You may pick up a registration form at the St. Peter Police Department, Kind Veterinary Clinic, or on the day of the event. Participants are encouraged to collect pledges prior to the walk. Those with more than $20 in donations will receive a bag and map to collect great treats along the walk route. Those with donations of $35 or more will also receive a t-shirt. Participants are encouraged but not required to dress
All About Pets Chad Hjellming Publisher 2016 All About Pets, is a special project of the St. Peter Herald, Le Center Leader and Le Sueur News-Herald and is distributed to their subscribers and readers at no additional charge. All advertising contained herien is the responsiblity of the advertisers. All rights reserved. ©2016.
up. Participants are also welcome to bring leashed pets, but please do not bring female animals in season or aggressive dogs. You do not need to walk with a dog to participate in the event. We are happy to announce some wonderful additions to our event this year! Thanks to the generosity of Kind Veterinary Clinic, they will be offering a special to chip your pet for $20! McDonalds of St. Peter will also be adding to the fun with their delicious smoothies! An organization in step with our mission to give animals a second chance through adoption, BENCHS, will be assisting with a great photo stop. Gustavus Adolphus College volunteers will also be assisting with our event to help the PAWS program and advocate for animals. We are excited to announce that a local artist has also volunteered to share her talent with us by drawing caricatures at the event! What a great Christmas gift to share with someone! The cost will be $5 for a pet, or $10 for a group, with all proceeds going to PAWS! There will also be face painting and games in the park, with an awards program at 11:45 for top fundraisers and people/pet costumes. Please take note of our ad, listing our generous sponsors who help to make this event possible!
Family Owned since 1988
• Happy Hour: M-F, 3-6 • Outdoor seating available • Lunch & Dinner Specials from 11 am -11 pm • Check our website for 30 Beers live entertainment schedule!
on Tap!
125 S. 3rd St. 507-931-9051
on Third patrickson3rd.com
Providing veterinary care for pets, horses, livestock and exotics.
1020 3rd Street • Nicollet, MN 56074 24 Hour Phone 507-225-3401 (Mon-Fri 7:30-5:30 • Sat 7:30-1:00)
ALL ABOUT PETS
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innocent, such as a source of open water, also can be dangerous. Birds easily can drown in water bowls, buckets or open toilets. In addition, any hot surface can be threatening to active birds, as fireplaces, boiling water, hot light bulbs, radiators, and candles can cause serious burns. Birds that are allowed free run of the house should be carefully monitored, and every effort should be made to remove potential hazards from the home. Keep doors closed so that the bird cannot escape to another room where windows may be open or safety measures to protect the bird were not taken.
Cages
How to create a healthy, safe environment for pet birds
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lthough birds may not be as popular as other companion animals, avian pets still make wonderful additions to many families. Pet birds can run the gamut from larger parrots to small lovebirds and finches. Birds may be more compact pets, suitable for smaller living spaces like apartments, but they’re not self-sufficient. Birds may need less daily attention than cats or dogs, but birds have specific needs to be met to keep them healthy and happy.
Household dangers Captive birds that will be allowed out of their cages from time to time are susceptible to potential dangers around the house. Numerous things can be dangerous to birds. Their small stature makes birds especially vulnerable to household cleaners, even small amounts of which can result in illness. Avoid the use of aerosol sprays or other chemicals around the bird. Other pets can also be potentially harmful to birds, who cannot defend themselves against cats, dogs and even ferrets.
The cage will be the bird’s primary home and the place he or she will spend the most amount of time. Provide the bird with the largest cage your home can accommodate. Pet professionals recommend stainless steel and powdercoated cages for their safety. Avoid galvanized wire cages that can be coated with zinc and make the bird sick. Outfit the cage with natural branches or perches of varying diameter to prevent painful worn spots from forming on the bird’s feet. Keep the cage as clean as possible, removing papers daily and rinsing the bottom of the cage with soap as necessary. A weekly disinfecting with a mild bleach-and-water solution can keep bacteria from taking root and prevent odor in the cage.
Controlled light Beyond providing food, shelter, exercise, and water, bird owners also should consider the physical and psychological benefits of giving caged birds access to full-spectrum lighting.
to many hours of sunlight, and indoor birds may not be privy to such conditions. According to Everything Birds, bird owners should provide a full-spectrum of light, including UVA and UVB light, to caged birds for 15 to 40 minutes per day, up to three days a week. Exposure to UVA is important for the bird’ vision, while UVB rays aid in the production of vitamin D. Too much UV exposure can be harmful, so exercise caution. Adjusting exposure to light can help birds develop healthy sleepwake cycles that mimic their behaviors in nature. When the weather is warm, bird cages can be rolled outdoors or birds with properly clipped wings can be given outdoor exercise.
Temperature Birds easily get cold and cannot sufficiently warm themselves, so keep bird cages located in a room with a stable temperature and away from drafts. Do not locate cages close to windows or in the bathroom where temperatures can fluctuate.
Kitchen When heated, nonstick pans may produce fumes that can be toxic to birds. Coffee pots and toasters also can give off fumes, especially when they are new, so keep birds away from these appliances. Birds also have a much lower tolerance to the toxins in cigarette smoke, so avoid smoking near a bird after a meal. Pet birds are seemingly an easy pet to have, and one that requires much less work than a dog or cat. However, birds have unique needs, and they require specialized care not everyone is capable of
October 5 & 6, 2016
How to trim a dog’s toenails
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rimming dog toenails is a routine part of grooming that can promote health and comfort. The task, while on the surface seems relatively simple, sometimes can be a cause for anxiety. That’s because if you cut too low, the blood vessel that runs through the dog’s nail can be nicked and cause bleeding. Avoiding the task only compounds the problem. The longer nails are allowed to grow, the longer that blood vessel, or quick, as it is known, can extend. Dogs that do not walk far outdoors, especially not on abrasive surfaces, may not benefit from natural wearing down of their nails and will require clipping more frequently. Also, certain breeds are prone to having longer nails. Long nails can be painful for dogs. The experts in holistic care at Dogs Naturally Magazine say that long nails that will come in contact with hard ground can push back up into the nail bed and cause discomfort. Long nails also may cause the toes to twist. Most dogs require their nails be trimmed every two weeks. This time period may be extended if the dog goes for long walks frequently. · Start by making the process relaxing for the dog. He or she can sense your anxiety, so do nail trimming when you aren’t rushed and can devote time to the process. Reward good behavior with treats so the dog will begin to associate nail trimming with a positive experience. · Trim any fur away from the toes to make it easier to see the nails. · Start slowly and trim the nail in small increments. Work in three parts: the top right, top left and top center. Do not merely cut a chunk off of the nail all at once. Working slowly helps you avoid pain for the dog and keeps you away from the quick. · If the edge of the nail you clipped looks dry and flaky, it’s likely safe you can trim off a little more. If you start to see a dark, horseshoe shape at the edge of the nail, the quick is nearby. It helps to keep styptic powder handy just in case. This will help stop the bleeding if the quick does get nicked. · Although everyone has their own techniques, having the dog in a lying down position may be easiest. This way you can comfortably reach the nails and not have to bend his feet in different positions to access the nails, which can be uncomfortable and cause your pet anxiety. Tackle nail trimming in a well-lit area as well. This will make it easier to see what you are doing. Taking time and reassuring your pet can make nail trimming a more pleasant experience for all involved.
October 5 & 6, 2016
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How to find a qualified, compassionate pet sitter
ore and more pet owners are taking their four-legged friends with them when they travel. But some vacations or business trips are not pet-friendly, and such excursions may require pet owners to enlist the services of professional pet sitters. Friends and family members may be able to look after pets when their owners are away for a few days. But when no one is close by to check in on or foster a pet, pet sitters and animal boarding facilities may be the only option available to pet owners. Pet sitters also may be able to step in when owners’ lastminute plans interfere with their ability to care for their pets. Finding the right facility or individual pet sitter requires a little work. Here are some ways to weed out the qualified and professional pet sitters from those who might not be the best fit. · Ask for recommendations. Seek advice from friends or family members who have used pet sitters in the past. If that does not prove fruitful, speak with your veterinarian. He or she may have a relationship with an animal boarder or a pet-sitting service.
Some veterinarians also have employees on staff who provide this kind of service, and such situations can be especially beneficial for owners of older or special-needs pets. An alternative to personal and professional recommendations is to employ a certified pet sitter from either The National Association of Professional Pet Sitters or Pet Sitters International. · Get a feel for the sitter’s personality. It can be beneficial to find a sitter whose energy levels and temperament are a good match with your pet. A young, boisterous puppy may not be a good match for an older sitter. Sitters who understand an animal’s specific needs and how to cater to those needs may perform their duties more effectively than less experienced sitters. · Compile a questionnaire. The Humane Society of the United States has a comprehensive list of qualifications you can use to screen potential pet sitters. These should include questions about liability insurance coverage and if companies that employ pet sitters are bonded to protect against theft. Pet sitters also should provide references. · Maintain the pet’s normal routine. Ac-
cording to pet expert Cesar Millan, it’s best to have the pet watched in his or her natural surroundings so they have a level of familiarity with their surroundings and schedules. When this is not possible, boarders should try to keep the same walking, play and feeding schedules. · Spell out all the details. Before hiring a sitter, make a list of requirements and make sure they are discussed and included in signed contracts. · Employ trial and error. Sometimes you have to take a chance and give a pet sitter an opportunity to prove his or her merit. Afford the pet sitter some time to meet your pet in your presence and watch for how your pet reacts
to the sitter. After the sitter’s first day on the job, look for indicators that may suggest the experience was not the right fit for your pet. Fearfulness in the pet, signs or smells that accidents occurred, property damage, or injuries to an animal may be evidence of a poor pet sitter. Pet owners sometimes require the service of pet sitters who can help them feel at ease when they need to leave home for business or pleasure.
Companion and Farm Animal Services, Supplies, Boarding & Grooming
Kind Veterinary Clinic
5 0 7 -9 3 1 -47 0 0
109 West Grace St. • St. Peter
M-F 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM, Th 7:30 AM - 8 PM Sat 8 AM - 1 PM
5 0 7 -3 5 7 -49 1 1
422 W. Cleveland St. • Le Center Tuesday and Thursday 8 AM - 5 PM
www.kindvetclinic.com
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Human foods pets should avoid
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he revenue of the pet care industry is testament to the lengths people will go to ensure their pets are comfortable and receiving a high level of care. Wellmeaning pet owners may pamper their pets, and many believe giving treats of human food is the ultimate indulgence for their animals. However, these individuals may be unwittingly exposing their beloved
pets to health problems by feeding them the wrong foods. The Humane Society of the United States warns that even foods that are considered good for people can be very dangerous for pets. This may even include common fruits and vegetables. In 2010, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center received more than 167,000 calls related to pet exposure to toxic
October 5 & 6, 2016
substances. The top three reasons for pet poisoning included consumption of prescription and over-the-counter drugs (45,616 calls); ingestion of insecticides (29,020 calls); and eating human food (17,453 calls). Many people are unaware that certain foods present a hazard to their pets’ health. Although any food not specifically designed for cats and dogs can affect the digestive system, resulting in vomiting, diarrhea or intestinal distress, the following foods are particularly problematic for companion animals. · Alcohol: Alcoholic beverages can cause liver and brain damage because it has the same effects on pets as it does on people - it just takes far less alcohol to negatively affect pets than it does humans. Just a little alcohol can cause vomiting, diarrhea, central nervous system depression, problems with coordination, difficulty breathing, coma, and even death. · Chocolate: The toxic component of chocolate is theobromine. It’s present in all types of chocolate, but more so in dark varieties and baking chocolate. At its worst, chocolate can cause an abnormal heart rhythm, seizures and death. · Dairy products: Cats pictured lapping up bowls of milk is a misrepresentation of what they should be consuming. Many cats and even some dogs are lactose intolerant. Eating dairy products can cause digestive
upset and may lead to food allergies and discomfort. · Fat trimmings, raw meat, raw eggs and raw fish: Each of these can cause vomiting, diarrhea or a painful condition called pancreatitis (from excessive fat). Plus, there is a risk of salmonella or E. coli associated with these foods. · Grapes and raisins: Cats may shy away from them, but dogs can suffer acute kidney failure from these fruits. · Macadamia nuts: According to WebMD, dogs shouldn’t eat macadamia nuts or foods that contain them because they can be fatal. As few as six raw or roasted macadamias can make dogs seriously ill. Symptoms of poisoning include muscle tremors, weakness or paralysis of the hindquarters, vomiting, elevated body temperature, and rapid heart rate. · Sweetened candy: Candies, gums, toothpaste, and any product containing “xylitol” can cause more insulin to circulate through a pet’s body, making blood sugar drop. That can result in liver failure and loss of coordination. Foods that people consume should not be shared with pets unless they have been recommended by a veterinarian. Even then, human food should be shared sparingly.
How dogs benefit from daily walks
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og owners with fenced-in backyards may think their furry friends are getting all they need during their nightly exercise sessions in the backyard. While such yards provide safe places for dogs to relax and run around, the American Humane Association (www.americanhumane. org) notes that even dogs who run wild in their backyards each day can benefit from daily walks. The following are a handful of ways dogs benefit from daily walks. · Socialization: The Animal Humane Society (www. animalhumanesociety.org) notes that puppies between three weeks and 20 weeks old are generally accepting of other dogs, and nightly walks can provide the perfect opportunity for puppy owners to acquaint their furry friends with their fellow dogs. Continued exposure after 20 weeks can help further the socialization process for young dogs. · Behavior: While puppies can learn to socialize on daily walks, older dogs may or may not reap the same rewards. But daily walks can help dog owners instill better behavior in their dogs. The AHS advises that owners of older dogs use walks as opportunities to teach dogs to behave calmly in public. Bring treats to reward dogs for sitting quietly when encountering other dogs and new people along the walk.
· Exercise: Of course, daily walks provide great exercise for dogs. Dogs who are let out in the backyard each night but are not played with may not be getting the exercise their owners think they are. Dogs left alone in a backyard may briefly run around before plopping down in the grass and enjoying the fresh air. That’s not enough exercise for many breeds, and it’s certainly insufficient for dogs who may be overweight or obese. Nightly walks can help dogs lose and/or maintain healthy weights, and the AHA notes that such walks also help dogs build strength and endurance. · Stimulation: According to the American Kennel Club (www.akc.org), dogs need both physical and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy. Walks obviously provide physical stimulation, but they can stimulate dogs mentally as well. Dogs often interrupt walks when their curiosity gets the better of them, stopping to observe or investigate something while on walks, and that’s mentally stimulating. Resist the temptation to pull the leash when dogs want to stop to check something out, affording them a little time to do some mental exploration before continuing the walk.
ALL ABOUT PETS
October 5 & 6, 2016
Senior dogs require some modifications in care so they can continue to enjoy a high quality of life.
How to care for your senior dog
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ogs mature at faster rates than human beings. While many have heard the rule that every human year equals seven dog years, the reality isn’t so cut and dry. Size and breed play roles in determining a dog’s age equivalent. According
to the pets division of WebMD, the first year of life for a dog may be roughly equivalent to 15 years for a human. Dog food manufacturer Purina says that by its tenth year alive, a small, medium and large dog is 56, 60 and 66 in human years, respectively.
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Thanks to advancements in veterinary care, dogs are living longer lives. Pet owners may have to adapt their care and exercise regimen to accommodate the changes in their pets. Senior dogs show some distinctive signs of aging that are on par with what humans experience. These include cloudy eyes, gray hair (in dogs this starts around the muzzle and spreads to other areas of the face, head and body) and loose skin. Elderly dogs also may begin to experience stiffness in their legs, particularly the hind quarter. To ensure a dog’s quality of life remains consistent through its senior years, pet owners can take the following steps. · Have a candid conversation with the vet. Make an appointment with your dog’s veterinarian to discuss a plan for making the dog comfortable and happy as the animal ages. Your vet can make recommendations regarding which type of foods the dog should eat and how much exercise it needs. · Make accommodations based on disability. A dog may develop arthritis or another degenerative disease that causes a general slowing down. Dogs may not be able to walk as far or play games as long as they used to. Some dogs also struggle to find a comfortable position when attempting to lie down or sit. Dogs also may have difficulty getting up and down stairs. As a result, aging dogs may need some extra help getting around. Invest in
ramps and ergonomic pet beds and bowls to help ease aging dogs’ discomfort. · Examine and modify dogs’ diets. Food needs can change as dogs become less active. Keeping dogs lean can prevent a host of illnesses. PetMD says more than half of American pets are overweight, and obesity can contribute to disease and put stress on pets’ joints. Let your vet be your guide in choosing high-quality, low-calorie foods and treats. He or she may also recommend supplementation to alleviate stiffness and address other needs. · Keep up the exercise. Exercise helps slow down the degeneration of joints and helps keep dogs healthy. Continue walks, but pare them down if your dog can’t keep up. Swimming is a low-impact exercise that is great for senior dogs. Look for a dog swim vest, which can help the animal maintain some buoyancy. · Be patient. Elderly dogs will need extra care, and that can be taxing. Exercise patience and you will see that the pampering and extra attention will help prolong your dog’s happiness through its golden years.
All Sorts of Things for All Types of Pets
• dogs • cats • birds • rabbits • Fish
For pet lovers, we have special blends of dog, cat food, bird food, rabbit food, fish food, health supplies, kennels, beds, toys, leashes and collars.
Take care of them the way they take care of you. 2 0 0 South Front Street, St. Peter · 5 0 7 -9 3 1 -3 2 0 0
We carry great brands!
8 20 E ast M ain St. | B elle Plaine | 9 5 2-8 7 3 -3 24 4 M on - F ri 8 : 00a.m . - 7 : 00p.m . | Sat: 8 : 00a.m . - 5 : 00p.m . | Sun: 9 : 00a.m .- 5 : 00p.m .
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October 5 & 6, 2016
Zika and your pets
he Zika virus became a widespread concern for travelers beginning in the spring of 2016. Travelers were warned not to visit certain areas, notably tropical climates, deemed vulnerable to Zika outbreaks. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that Zika is spread mostly by the bite of an infected Aedes aegypti mosquito. While many people can overcome a Zika infection, it’s particularly dangerous to pregnant women and their fetuses and women who hope to become pregnant. Infection during pregnancy can cause certain birth defects that affect the fetus’s brain. Since the Zika virus garnered international attention, certain areas in North America have been affected, including Florida and New York. Zika has understandably raised concern about the impact the virus can have should it spread even further. While the illness is usually mild, with symptoms such as fever, aches and pains lasting as little as one week, pet owners are unsure if the virus poses a threat to their four-legged friends. As of late summer 2016, the CDC did not think that animals were involved in the spread of Zika virus. There has been no evidence that Zika is spread to people from contact with animals, nor have there been any reports of pets or other types of animals becoming sick with Zika. The only animal ever known to have experienced Zika spontaneously was a monkey with a mild fever in the Zika Forest of Uganda in the 1940s. Primates have the ability to become infected, says the CDC, but only a few experiments have ever presented any symptoms.
The CDC adds that there is also limited evidence from a study conducted in Indonesia in the late 1970s that horses, cows, water buffaloes, goats, ducks, and bats could become infected with Zika. But there is no evidence that the animals developed the disease or posed a risk for Zika virus transmission to humans. Pets are much more likely to succumb to other mosquito-spread illnesses than the Zika virus. However, pet owners can still take certain precautions to keep their companion animals safe. Mosquito control measures are the best sources of protection. Ensure there are no sources of standing water in and around a home, as standing water serves as a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Natural and chemical pesticides may help in the yard. Also, speak with a veterinarian about repellants labeled for animals if mosquitoes are particularly bad. You also can limit the time pets spend outdoors during peak mosquito season. Zika outbreaks are extremely unlikely in cold, dry climates where mosquitoes are not prevalent. But pet owners in such climates should still take measures to protect their pets from mosquitoes. Routine vet visits and vaccinations are essential to keeping pets safe. Parasites can cause any number of health ailments, and heartworm is a particularly dangerous condition that can be transmitted through a mosquito bite. More research and information is needed regarding the impact of Zika on livestock and companion animals. But pet owners should continue to prioritize protecting their animals from potentially harmful mosquitoes.
RICKWAY CARPET and Window Treatments 1107 Cross Street, North Mankato 507-625-3089 • www.rickwaycarpet.net M-Th 9 am-8 pm; Fri. 9 am-6 pm Sat. 9 am-4 pm; Closed Sun.