20 1 7
A Parent’s Guide to Pet Adoption and Pet Safety Tips
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Table of Contents
ADOPT ME!
Want healthier kids? Get a pet .............................................................................. 4
Polydactal
Help reduce animal overpopulation ....................................................................... 5
Available from Berkeley County Human Society
Debunking myths about spaying & neutering........................................................ 6 Uncovering the mysteries of mixed-breed dogs .................................................... 7 Establish a low-maintenance aquarium ................................................................ 8 Age equivalents for cats and dogs ........................................................................ 9
304.267.8389 berkeley.wvhumane.com
ADOPT US!
Foods that cats and dogs should never eat ......................................................... 10
Lovery Boy Shelter dogs in need of good homes ................................................................... 11 & Shiloh
Are pet turtles dangerous? .................................................................................. 13
Available from Briggs Animal Adoption Center
Beginner’s guide to reptiles as pets .................................................................... 14
304.724.6558 baaca.org
Is a guinea pig the pet for you? ........................................................................... 12
Making end-of-life choices for beloved pets ....................................................... 15
Advertising Index Hearty Pet ........................................................................................................... IFC Country K9 Pet Resort & Spa ................................................................................. 4
ADOPT ME! Casey Available from Fredom Hearts Animal Rescue
Campbell’s Canine Camp ....................................................................................... 5
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Tammy Sirbaugh/State Farm Insurance ................................................................ 6 Animal Welfare Society Jefferson County .............................................................. 6 Animal Rehab & Pain Center.................................................................................. 7 Bow Wow Station & Spa ........................................................................................ 8 Cedar Run Pet Resort ............................................................................................ 9 Widow’s Mite Farm Kennels ................................................................................ 10
ADOPT ME! KC Available from Animal Welfare Society of Jefferson County 304.725.0589 awsjc.org
Briggs Animal Adoption Center ............................................................................ 11 City National Bank ............................................................................................... 12
ADOPT ME!
The Doggie Depot of Virginia ............................................................................... 13
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Available from Winchester SCPA
WV Puppy............................................................................................................. 15 All Pets Cremation Center .................................................................................... 15 Shenandoah Veterinary Hospital.......................................................................... BC
540.662.8616 winchesterscpa.org Pet Booklet 2017 – Page 3
Want healthier kids? GET A PET reported that adolescents who had animal experience were more likely to see themselves as important contributors to communities and more likely to take on leadership roles. Pets also can help children develop into well-rounded individuals. Playing with a pet requires children to engage in physical activity and can help stimulate motor skills. An English study conducted in 2010 and published in the American Journal of Public Health found that children from dog-owning families spent more time in light or moderate to vigorous physical activity and recorded higher levels of activity counts per minute than kids whose families did not own a dog.
If youngsters have been eyeing fuzzy kittens or boisterous puppies at nearby shelters or pet stores, parents may want to give in to those cries for a family pet. Pets are added responsibilities, but the health benefits associated with pet ownership may be well worth the investment of time and effort.
Pets may help with allergies and respiratory ailments as well. A 2012 study by the American Academy of Pediatrics discovered that children who have early contact with cats and dogs have fewer respiratory infections and ear infections and need shorter courses of antibiotics than children who have not had contact with pets.
A study from Dennis Ownby, MD, a pediatrician and head of the allergy and immunology department of the Medical College of Georgia, found that having multiple Pets can Caring for a pet is sometimes viewed as a decreases a child’s risk of developing certain childhood rite of passage, but there’s much contribute to pets allergies. He found that the children who were more to the experience than just learning cognitive, physical exposed to two or more dogs or cats as babies responsibility. Experts say a child’s emotional, and emotional were less than half as likely to develop common cognitive, physical, and social development allergies as kids who had no pets in the home. can be enhanced through interaction with a wellness in family pet. Studies continue, but the effects of Pets also may foster social interactions, which children. family pets on children was heavily researched by can benefit children who are shy. Inviting others developmental psychologist Gail F. Melson in 2003. over to meet pets can help children make friends and Melson looked at literature on child-animal relationships find others with similar interests. Children may also confide and found that children who had pets were better able to understand biology and children who could turn to pets in pets and develop their self-esteem. for unconditional emotional support were less anxious and withdrawn than their peers without family pets to turn to. Studies have indicated that the type of pet a family has, Data from a small study conducted by researchers at the whether it’s horses, dogs, snakes, etc., does not matter, as all Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University companion animals have the potential to benefit children.
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Help reduce animal overpopulation Companion animal overpopulation is a problem that continues to tax the resources of communities throughout North America. Each year, millions of animals are euthanized in animal shelters because there are simply not enough people to adopt them. One of the easiest ways to prevent pet overpopulation is to spay and neuter animals. Cats can reproduce at very fast rates. According to the Cat Rescue, Adoption & Foster Team of Central Oregon, two uncontrolled breeding cats can create the following situation if they have two litters a year at a survival rate of 2.8 kittens per litter: 12 cats in the first year, 66 cats in the second year, and 2,201 cats in the third year. Cats reach puberty between 4 and 12 months of age. Female cats r e p r o d u c e between January and September, and might come back into “heat” every 14 to 21 days until they have bred or daylight decreases considerably. Cats can give birth 60 days after they have bred. With regard to when to spay or neuter animals, experts advise taking a “the earlier the better” approach. The North Shore Animal League America’s SpayUSA says that, for many years,
veterinarians were taught that cats and dogs had to be one year old to be spayed or neutered. But it is now known that kittens and pups can be spayed or neutered at the age of two months (or two pounds). The American Veterinary Medical Association has endorsed this practice, which is referred to as “early age neutering.” When spayed or neutered early, animals recover more quickly from surgery than they would if spayed or neutered later in life. The Canadian Federation of Humane Societies offers that spaying or neutering is the responsibility of all pet owners. But for some owners, the cost of spaying or neutering can be a deterrent. Several municipalities, humane societies and SPCAs now offer low-cost spay/neuter programs or clinics to address this issue. One such organization is the Beat the Heat Alliance, Inc., which offers spay/neuter access, assistance and education in northeastern Tennessee. The group also sponsors the Beat the Heat annual event. By controlling the rate of reproduction, communities can help alleviate the strain that is posed by pet overpopulation.
DID YOU KNOW? According to the pet adoption service Petfinder, dogs chase their tails for various reasons. Some dogs may be curious about the appendage or have a predatory instinct, while others may chase their tails just to get some exercise. Tail-chasing may also be a nervous tick that’s indicative of the dog’s anxiety. Flea infestation is another reason dogs may chase their tails. Some dogs may believe they can alleviate itchiness from flea bites by latching onto their tails. Dog owners concerned about excessive tail-chasing should discuss those concerns with their veterinarian, who may offer insight as to why the dog is chasing its tail and how to reduce that chasing in the future.
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Debunking myths about SPAYING & NEUTERING Companion animal overpopulation poses a considerable problem. The Humane Society of the United States says about 2.4 million healthy, adoptable cats and dogs are euthanized in American animal shelters each year — about one every 13 seconds. Many of these animals are the offspring of beloved pets or stray cats and dogs who reproduce unchecked.
is spayed or neutered. Pets are usually fully recovered within a week of having the surgery.
help make the procedure affordable.
MYTH: Removing reproductive organs will make my pet get fat and lazy.
One of the easiest solutions to the pet overpopulation problem is to have pets spayed or neutered. Another solution is for prospective pet owners to adopt pets from a nearby animal shelter — one that handles spaying and neutering for their adoptable animals. Many pet owners are hesitant to have their animals spayed or neutered. That hesitation may stem from some prevailing myths surrounding spaying or neutering.
MYTH: My pet’s personality will change for the worse.
FACT: The surgery is done under general anesthesia, and the pet will not feel anything. Discomfort after the surgery is usually mild, and a vet can prescribe a post-operative pain medication if your pet seems to have any lingering discomfort.
MYTH: You can use neutering or spaying interchangeably to describe the sterilization process. FACT: Neutering is associated with male pets and the removal of the testicles. Spaying is for female pets and involves the removal of both the ovaries and uterus. MYTH: Recovery from spaying and neutering takes a long time. FACT: Many veterinarians and animal clinics allow pet owners to bring their pets home on the same day the animal
FACT: Weight gain is not a byproduct of spaying and neutering. Pet weight gain is typically linked to an unhealthy diet and inadequate exercise.
FACT: Pet behavior may improve after the animal is spayed or neutered. Males tend to be less aggressive, and females won’t howl, cry or pace when they’re in heat. Also, your pet actually may stick closer to home because the desire to find a mate has been reduced. MYTH: It’s adviseable to spay a female pet after she has at least one litter. FACT: Many veterinarians stand by medical evidence that suggests females spayed before their first heat are typically healthier than those who aren’t. MYTH: It is expensive to have my pet spayed or neutered. FACT: Subsidized voucher programs as well as low-cost spay/ neuter clinics can
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MYTH: The sterilization procedure is painful for my pet.
MYTH: If I keep my pet intact, I can have a puppy or a kitten just like him or her one day. FACT: The offspring of a pet is not guaranteed to be a duplicate in looks or personality to your existing pet. In addition, at a later point in life, you may find your schedule or ability to care for a young pet has changed. Pet overpopulation is a considerable problem with wide-ranging consequences. Pet owners should speak with their pets’ veterinarians about spaying and neutering. Veterinarians say one of the best things to do for a pet is to have him or her neutered or spayed.
Uncovering the mysteries of MIXED-BREED DOGS Welcoming a pet into a home can be a joyous event. Companion animals have a way of assimilating into a family rather quickly. Some prospective pet owners spend months researching the type of breed they prefer, while others prefer to adopt mixed-breed dogs from a nearby animal shelter. Purebred and mixed breed dogs both make great pets. In fact, some experts will say mutts are preferable to certain pure breeds because they are less likely to carry genetic defects that may lead to illnesses or other medical concerns as they age. But some dog owners prefer purebred dogs because they know what to expect of such animals. For example, golden retriever or labrador owners likely have a good idea of the dogs’ temperament and can likely gauge just how large the dog will become. The owners will also be aware of particular flaws or attributes of the breed, such as drooling, snoring or barking. Though such guesswork used to be considerably more difficult with mixed breed dogs, scientific advancements now enable curious pet parents to determine the genetic makeup of mixed-breed dogs. A variety of do-it-yourself DNA testing kits allow dog owners to perform genetic testing on their mixed-breed best friends. Owners simply swab inside of the dog’s mouth to collect cheek cell samples, and then seal the swabs inside of the kit packaging. Some additional information must be supplied before a lab will run a series of tests to determine
the best breed matches among their database of various dog breeds. The tests look at microsatellite genotypes for specific dog breeds, and usually offer the percentage of a given breed that is in the mutt’s DNA. Accuracy of the tests depends largely on the number of breedrelated genetic markers in its database. A company that has a larger database of genetic markers will be able to offer a clearer picture. Currently, Wisdom Panel(R) Insights(TM) is the industry leader on genetic background testing for dogs. While the tests are not 100 percent accurate, they do offer owners of mixed breed dogs a better chance at determining the heritage of a particular mixed-breed dog. This can help owners of such dogs be aware of any potential health issues or simply assuage curiosity as to why their pup looks or acts the way it does.
PET NAMES Choosing pets’ names can be just as challenging for pet owners as naming children is for parents. Many pet owners want a name that encompasses the animal’s personality and rolls off the tongue. Some names are gender-specific, while others are universal. If you need help naming that new bundle of fur or feathers, you may find some help by looking at the most popular pet names. Each year, Veterinary Pet Insurance releases its list of popular pet names. Some of the most popular pet names for today include: DOGS Bella • Max • Bailey • Lucy • Charlie CATS Bella • Max • Oliver • Chloe • Lucy BIRDS Charlie • Kiwi • Baby • Coco • Mango For those who appreciate a little humor with their pets’ names, Nationwide Insurance listed a bulldog named McLoven the Stud Muffin and a kitty called Agent Jack Meower as 2016’s top Wacky Pet Names. Kanye Westie and Optimus Prime Rib were some other clever pooch names, while Shakespurr and Butch Catsidy made the list as funny feline monikers.
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Establish a low-maintenance aquarium Fish are often the pet of choice when people desire a pet that requires minimal care. While home aquariums may not require substantial maintenance, they cannot go entirely ignored, either. When ignored, aquariums can quickly transform from a visually stunning habitat into a murky, algae-infested mess. But as important as aquarium maintenance is, some additional factors can also influence the beauty of a home aquarium. Q Bigger may be better. Larger tanks may be better than compact tanks, especially for new owners. That’s because larger tanks are generally more stable in terms of water balance. People mistakenly overcrowd their tanks with fish, and a small tank can easily be overrun by bacteria and fish waste. Upgrading to a larger tank (think 30 gallons) means fish will have the room they need and the water will not have to be changed as frequently to keep it clean.
Fish that are an inch in size need roughly one gallon of water each. Fewer fish are easy to care for and won’t cloud up the water quickly. Q Invest in a good filter. A variety of aquarium filters are available, and they can range from inexpensive to more costly. Be sure the filter you choose is large enough to accommodate the volume of water in the tank. It’s better to have a filter that’s too large for the tank than one that is too small. Look for a filter that will turn over all of the water in the tank at least four times per hour. Ample filtering means the water will remain crystal clear.
FOR AN EASIER-TO-MAINTAIN HOME AQUARIUM, SKIP GOLDFISH IN LIEU OF “CLEANER” FISH.
Q Find a shady spot. It’s tempting to put a fish tank where it can be seen by everyone. But if this spot gets a lot of sunlight or even ambient light from overhead fixtures, it may fall victim to excessive algae growth. Algae, like most plants, needs light and a food source to thrive. The fish will provide the food material, but owners can control the light to limit algae blooms. Once algae is present in large amounts, it can easily overrun the tank. Invest in a few algae-eater fish, such as plecos and some catfish. Q Don’t overstock the aquarium. It can be tempting to buy more and more fish for a home aquarium. But putting too many fish in a tank can throw the water balance off considerably and lead to a high amount of waste in the water.
Q Plan for weekly partial water changes. Siphon 10 to 20 percent of the water each week for optimal health. Try to vacuum around the gravel to remove trapped food particles and waste. Committing to this small bit of maintenance can go a long way toward creating a healthy tank that will not require more maintenance.
Q Avoid goldfish as a first fish. Goldfish are particularly dirty fish. They are often purchased because they tend to be inexpensive, but goldfish metabolize food quickly and produce a lot of waste. They can also grow quite large, requiring an upgrade to a larger tank much more quickly than some other fish. Guppies and platies make good starter fish. They’re tolerant of harsh aquarium conditions and quite hardy. All pets require a certain measure of care and maintenance. Although maintaining a fish tank may not require the daily effort of caring for cats or dogs, a tank still must be maintained to provide an ideal living environment for fish.
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Age equivalents for CATS AND DOGS Cat and dog owners know that the responsibility of caring for their favorite felines and preferred pooches changes as those animals age. But owners may not know just what constitutes an “aging” pet. Many might go by the popular notion that one dog year is equal to seven human years. But that figure is not quite accurate and is rarely associated with cats, leaving many cat owners to wonder the age equivalents for their furry companions. The American Veterinary Medical Association notes that determining the age equivalent of pets is not as simple as “1 human year = X cat/dog years.” In fact, making such determinations is especially difficult with dogs, whose age equivalents depend on the size of the dog. But the AVMA does calculate pet age in human terms, and the following are the equivalents on which they tend to rely. CATS Cat years 7 10 15 20
Human years 45 58 75 98
DOGS (small-medium) Dog years Human years 7 44-47 10 56-60 15 76-83 20 96-105
DOGS (large-very large) Dog years Human years 7 50-56 10 66-78 15 93-115 20 120
DID YOU KNOW? Many of the unsavory behaviors associated with pet parrots are not inherent to the bird but are learned reactions that result from interacting with humans. In the wild, parrots are social creatures and do not need to look far to communicate with others. Often their calls are returned quite quickly by other parrots or birds. In solitary cages, parrots may try to get the attention of their caretakers through the usual means, only to find that they get no response. Over time, a parrot may resort to screaming or making other loud noises, which people are not able to ignore. If the parrot owner reprimands the parrot or acknowledges the screaming, he or she has just inadvertently let the parrot know that this is an effective way to gain attention. A similar thing occurs with biting. In the wild, parrots may use body language to warn off other animals before they need to resort to biting. However, humans may not be tuned into these clues and may end up pushing the boundaries with the bird. Biting may be the only way the parrot gets the message across that it does not want to be bothered at the time. Some parrots grow accustomed to biting simply because this gets the fastest reaction. Parrot owners need to become acquainted with the behaviors of parrots and avoid conditioning parrots to be poor companions. The bird owner should provide opportunities for socialization and time for play, and he or she should respect when the parrot wants to be hands-off. This can strengthen the parrot-owner relationship.
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Foods that cats and dogs SHOULD NEVER EAT Nutritious diets are essential to long-term pet health. Many well-intentioned pet owners feed their pets foods they believe are nutritious, only to learn that certain foods, even those deemed healthy for humans, can be quite dangerous to dogs and cats.
greater risk for pets now that home brewing as a hobby or side business has become popular. When ingested, hops can cause a rapid heart rate, anxiety, vomiting, and other abdominal symptoms. Essential oils and tannins in hops also can cause high fever when pets ingest them.
Cats and dogs metabolize foods and other substances differently from humans. WebMD reports that each year, there are more than 100,000 cases of pet poisoning in the United States. Many of these instances were caused by household substances that may seem perfectly harmless. Medications, cleaning products and certain foods can poison pets. Dogs tend to be at higher risk for food poisoning, particularly because they are less discriminatory with regard to food.
• MILK AND DAIRY: Do not give dogs and cats milk to lap up, and avoid giving them high amounts of cheese and other dairy foods. Pets do not possess significant amounts of lactase, the enzyme that breaks down lactose in milk. Therefore, diarrhea and digestive upset is likely to occur when pets consume dairy.
Before caving into the temptation to share snacks with their pets, pet owners should recognize the common foods the ASPCA and other pet welfare organizations list as the most likely to contribute to pet poisonings worldwide. • CHOCOLATE: Chocolate is accountable for roughly one-quarter of all toxic exposures. Chocolate contains methylxanthines, which are found in cacao seeds. When ingested by pets, methylxanthines can cause excessive thirst and urination, panting, vomiting, diarrhea, abnormal heart rhythm, and seizures. Serious cases can be fatal. Dark chocolate and baking chocolate are especially dangerous for pets. • GRAPES/RAISINS: Grapes, raisins, sultanas, and currants, whether raw or cooked, can cause kidney failure in dogs. Not all dogs are affected. However, these fruits should be avoided. Symptoms include lethargy, diarrhea and vomiting within 24 hours of consumption.
• ONIONS/GARLIC: These aromatic ingredients are not a good idea for pets, particularly cats. Onions contain an ingredient called thiosulphate, which is toxic to cats and dogs. The ingestion of onions and onion-related foods can cause a condition called hemolytic anemia. This is damage to red blood cells that causes the cells circulating throughout the pet’s body to burst. • XYLITOL: Keep pets away from sugarless gums and candies that contain Xylitol, which also may be used in toothpaste. The substance causes insulin to release in most species, which can lead to liver failure. Pet owners should be aware that the foods they eat regularly may not be safe for their pets. Always consult with a veterinarian before giving pets foods commonly eaten by humans.
• MACADAMIA NUTS: These nuts can cause depression, vomiting, tremors, and hyperthermia in dogs. • HOPS: Commonly used for brewing beer, hops have become a
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Shelter dogs in need of GOOD HOMES Thousands of dogs end up in shelters every year. Some get reunited with family members, but the vast majority are strays or surrendered by their owners. The Humane Society of the United States estimates that animal shelters care for between six and eight million dogs and cats every year, and approximately half of those animals are ultimately euthanized. Substantial progress has been made to reduce the number of shelter animals that are euthanized, but more work is necessary to save animals from this unfortunate fate. To help reduce the number of homeless animals, many different shelters work to place animals in homes and educate men, women and children about pet overpopulation. Certain breeds tend to be more populous than others in shelters. It is possible to find purebred dogs in shelters, and some shelters even specialize at placing particular breeds. However, many shelter dogs are mixed-breeds, often referred to as mutts. According to polling from various shelters across the country, pit bulls, labradors, German shepherds, beagles, and their mixes tend to be the most common types of dogs found in shelters. Dogs perceived to be too hyper or aggressive frequently arrive at shelters when people find they cannot manage the animals. But with some training and discipline, many dogs can become beloved companions. The following is a look at the general temperament of common shelter dogs and the type of care and handling such dogs may require. PIT BULL TERRIER A well-bred pit bull can be a dependable, loyal and goodnatured companion. These dogs are athletic and must have moderate daily exercise to stay healthy and prevent boredom. Pit bulls can be stubborn and dominant, meaning they will need confident owners who can establish and enforce expected behaviors. While they can be friendly with people,
pit bulls may be assertive around other dogs, particularly when they feel their dominance is being challenged. In addition, these dogs have a high prey instinct and may chase cats or other small animals. Pit bulls can usually live comfortably if they have adequate mental stimulation and are socialized at an early age. BEAGLES Beagles are the perfect size for many families, and they also make friendly and peaceful dogs. Then why do they end up in shelters so readily? Beagles were developed as hunting dogs and may have these traits programmed into their heads to chase and seek out prey. What’s more, beagles need a lot of exercise, and some people simply do not have the time or inclination to exercise their dogs. Beagles can bay or howl when they become bored, and they may dig holes or try to escape close quarters. For these reasons, beagles may end up turned over to shelters. But firm training and positive outlets for energy can help make beagles welcome companions. GERMAN SHEPHERD Well-bred German shepherds are often self-confident and aloof but not hostile. But many German shepherds, thanks in part to overbreeding, exhibit unpredictable behavior. German shepherds are a working breed and were developed to be smart and forward-thinking. Shepherds need mental stimulation to remain happy and could become destructive if not given a good intellectual outlet, such as agility classes or herding opportunities. German shepherds shed a lot of hair, making them undesirable to some people. When not properly socialized, shepherds may be aggressive toward other dogs, which can be problematic. However, a shepherd that has been bred well, trained and socialized can make a loyal and friendly pet.
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Is a guinea pig the pet for you? Rather than open their home to a dog or cat, some people would prefer a different type of companion animal. Some peruse the pet store and become enamored with the whiskered face of a guinea pig. But before making an impulse purchase, it’s wise to research the needs of guinea pigs to determine if one would be the right fit in your home. Larger than hamsters and smaller than bunnies, guinea pigs seem the ideal pet for someone looking for a small animal that doesn’t require a lot of room or constant attention. According to veteran rescuer Vicki Palmer Nielsen of the Jack Pine Guinea Pig Rescue in Stacy, Minnesota, even prospective pet owners who do their homework do not always understand what it is like to live with guinea pigs. Guinea pigs require attention and are not the type of pet that will simply sit around and be content all day. There are things prospective guinea pig owners should know before beginning the adoption process. WHAT IS A GUINEA PIG? Guinea pigs are not from New Guinea, nor are they a variation on the pig. They are members of a family of rodents called caviidae, abbreviated to cavy, which are native to South America. This rodent family has fewer members than most other rodent families. Cavys have short, heavy bodies and large heads. Guinea pigs, like other cavies, are herbivores, meaning they feed on grasses and leaves. Guinea pigs may measure 8 to 10 inches in length and weigh between 1 to 3 pounds. For a rodent, they are relatively large, and they can live anywhere from 4 to 8 years. LEVEL OF CARE Guinea pigs will require a cage large enough for them to roam around. Many of the cages marketed for guinea pigs are actually too small. Err on the larger size when getting a cage. Avoid a fish tank because it prevents adequate ventilation
Page 12 – Pet Booklet 2017
and the guinea pig can suffer heat stroke. Guinea pigs should also be allowed out of their cages each day. They should be able to stretch their legs and explore. Daily socialization and interaction is also necessary to help a guinea pig become less skittish and accustomed to handling. The cage will need to be thoroughly cleaned once a week, a n d may need to be spot cleaned every few days. As with other rodents, urine and feces will buildup in the bedding of a cage and become quite smelly if not maintained. Guinea pigs also need weekly or daily grooming depending on the length of their fur. Routine nail clipping and ear cleaning are also recommended. It is important to note that guinea pigs are social animals and may do well and be most happy with another guinea pig. Therefore, you may want to have two cavies of the same sex kept together, which doubles the amount of upkeep. GUINEA PIGS AND CHILDREN Many guinea pigs are purchased as pets for children. In general, a guinea pig should be reserved for a child age six or older. Guinea pigs have small bones and they can be easily crushed or injured if dropped. Careful handling is a necessity, so only capable children should be trusted with carrying or holding the guinea pig. Through constant, gentle handling, the guinea pig will become tame quite easily. Although unlikely, during extremely stressful situations a guinea pig could scratch or bite. Some adults and children are allergic to guinea pigs, so it is important to determine if there is an allergy present before buying or adopting an animal. Guinea pigs can make wonderful pets for families who have the financial ability, time and patience to care for these delicate animals.
Are pet TURTLES dangerous? Certain people are attracted to furry, four-legged pets while others prefer winged companions. Still others are drawn to reptiles and amphibians, content to watch them consume insects and warm themselves on hot stones. Small turtles have long been popular pets, particularly for children. Despite that popularity, many people still question the safety of keeping turtles as pets. Turtles may be slow, but don’t let their unimposing stature fool you. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, small pet turtles are cause for concern. These reptiles may be harbingers of potentially dangerous salmonella bacteria. The CDC reminds the American public that it is illegal to keep any turtle smaller than four inches as a pet. Laws vary throughout Canada, but it’s best that prospective turtle owners confirm if it’s legal to own a turtle before purchasing one. Salmonella bacteria can cause a disease known as salmonellosis. Reptiles, including turtles, annually transmit an estimated 74,000 cases of salmonellosis to people in the United States, says the CDC. The ban of turtles by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration since 1974 has prevented an estimated 100,000 cases of salmonellosis in children per year. Other animals, including amphibians such as frogs, salamanders and newts, also can transmit salmonella bacteria. Young children (those under the age of five) as well as the elderly and those who have a compromised immune system could be especially susceptible to salmonellosis should they handle a contaminated pet. But in the hands of responsible owners, turtles can make interesting pets. However, many species of turtles have a long life span, some living to 100. Others can grow quite large. Turtles have strong jaws and can bite with some power. They also have sharp claws designed for digging through dirt and other terrain. Many of these factors make them risky as pets. Small turtles can attract the eye of children who don’t understand the animal’s potential hazards. Young children may put the turtle near their mouths or handle the turtle as they would a toy and then touch their eyes, nose and mouth before washing off potential germs. This is how salmonella bacteria can spread. Turtles do not shed salmonella bacteria all of the time. Just be-
cause a turtle is tested and comes back as negative does not mean the reptile is not infected. It could just be that the turtle was not shedding salmonella on the day it was tested. It is recommended that turtles should not be in any household with young children or people with a lowered natural resistance to disease, including pregnant women and those undergoing chemotherapy. When keeping turtles as pets, pet owners should take heed of the following guidelines. Q Handle all surfaces that turtles have traversed as if they are contaminated. Wash surfaces thoroughly with an antibacterial product or a bleach-andwater solution. Q Wash hands thoroughly after handling turtles, their cages or any supplies. Q Keep turtles away from the kitchen and any areas where food preparation takes place. Q Do not wash turtle equipment in kitchen sinks or use sinks to bathe turtles. Q If items are washed in bathtubs, disinfect the tubs with bleach before subsequent use. Q Food and drink should be kept away from animal contact areas. Q Do not allow turtles to roam freely through the house. Q Pets owners who can no longer keep their turtles should not simply release them into the wild. Instead, find a shelter that will accept the turtle and put it up for adoption.
IN MANY INSTANCES, IT IS HEALTHIER TO VISIT A TURTLE OR TORTOISE AT A ZOO OR ANIMAL CENTER RATHER THAN KEEPING ONE AS A PET.
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Pet Booklet 2017 – Page 13
Beginner’s guide to
REPTILES AS PETS
Dogs and cats may be the most popular pets, but reptiles have their share of admirers as well. Reptiles can make great pets, and they may be ideal for children or novice pet owners.
though they come from arid conditions, spray the tank with water each day to provide them
Unlike cats or dogs, many reptiles need a very specific environment to thrive. That includes some sort of UV light, a warming stone and particularly hot conditions. Reptiles and amphibians are coldblooded animals, meaning their body temperatures fluctuate based on the conditions of their environment. They will require an external heating source to stay comfortable. Certain reptiles may be better for beginners than others. Here is a look at some popular reptilian pets and what is necessary to care for them. BEARDED DRAGON: This animal hails from Australia and may grow up to two feet in length, most of which is in the tail. These lizards will need an appropriate housing structure, which should be a 55-gallon tank for the average-sized single male dragon. They require special light bulbs to absorb vitamins. Dragons are omnivorous, so you will have to provide both plant and animal food sources. Even
with a water source, as they will not drink from a bowl. Dragons are hardy and can endure even if some mistakes in care are made early on. GREEN ANOLE: Also known as the American chameleon, green anoles are another popular starter pet. Anoles are inexpensive, which makes them a great choice for first-time reptile owners. Anoles can be easy to care for if you meet the right requirements. They need a high-humidity environment and daily misting. These reptiles also like to climb, so you will need to prepare the cage accordingly with a tight-fitting lid and a structure they can scale. While a male and female and even two females can be kept together, never put two males together, as they will fight and likely kill each other. GECKO: The leopard gecko can be a great lizard for beginners. Thanks
to its small size and modest needs, a gecko does not need a large tank to live in. Geckos are also tolerant to handling and can grow accustomed to frequent touching. Keep in mind that geckos are nocturnal, which means they are most active in the evening. Invest in a special reptile light designed for viewing in the dark so that you do not interfere with the animal’s sleep-wake cycle. Also, try not to stress or frighten the leopard gecko. It has the ability to drop its tail if feeling threatened, which can put unnecessary stress on the animal. NEWT: Newts are almost exclusively aquatic or require high-humidity levels. You will need a tank with an area of sloped land for eating and sleeping. Another area should be filled with water for immersion. Newts are generally a pet that should be observed rather than handled, as they have sensitive membranes or toxic skin. Colorful newts can be enjoyable to watch and require little care besides water changes and feeding. Reptiles can make interesting and relatively maintenance-free pets. People looking for ideal starter pets may want to skip the furry in favor of the scaly.
DID YOU KNOW? Pets are cherished members of the family, and many pet parents choose to purchase gifts for their animal companions. According to a survey conducted by Rover.com, 95 percent of pet owners have purchased Christmas gifts for their pets. While Christmas is the most popular holiday to buy presents for pets, pet owners also buy presents for their pets’ birthdays and for Valentine’s Day.
In Home Training
Bark Busters A B ETTER W AY T O A B ETTER D OG
Helping owners establish control without treats or the need for harsh punishment.
find your local trainer at Barkbusters.com Page 14 – Pet Booklet 2017
Making END-OF-LIFE CHOICES for beloved pets to catch or track the progression of illness. It can be difficult for pet owners to gauge how much pain their companion animals may be suffering through. Some signs of pain include excessive panting or gasping for breath. Pets in considerable amounts of pain also may hide or be reluctant to move. Pet owners whose pets are in pain can surround the animals with comforting toys and blankets. Try not to disrupt pets’ schedules very much, as this can prove disorienting.
End-of-life decisions are not something many pet owners think about when welcoming new pets into their homes. But time sneaks up on pets just like it can for their owners, and pet owners must inevitably consider end-of-life options for their pets. PetMD states that small dogs tend to live longer than their larger counterparts, and cats may exceed the life expectancy of dogs. But many aging pets ultimately need extra care as they near their final days. Some pets may reach old age and pass away comfortably at home, while others may suffer from illness and require stays in animal hospitals. Having a plan in place can make this emotional time more manageable for pet owners. The first step is to speak with a veterinarian about end-of-life options. One of the primary factors to consider when mulling end-of-life plans is quality of life. Vet Centers of America says most senior pets develop one or more medical conditions that tend to worsen over time. These conditions can impact quality of life. Senior dogs may develop pain related to osteoarthritis, blindness, cancer, or another underlying disease. Vets can reduce that discomfort by suggesting certain therapies or supplements. Older pets also may need more frequent medical check-ups
Euthanasia is a tough decision for any pet owner. Many people also use a quality of life scale to determine if it may be time to say goodbye to their pets, offers the American Humane Society. If pets have lost interest in their favorite activities, cannot stand or walk, have become incontinent, are in pain, or no longer exchange with their owners, it may be time to consider humane euthanasia. Vets often make the process quiet and comfortable and might even come to the house. Various memorials and keepsakes are now frequently part of end-of-life services. Aging pets have specific needs, and pet owners should consider end-of-life planning strategies before pets become ill.
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Pet Booklet 2017 – Page 15
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