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Taylor Posted on by Taylor

dog hiking

Your dog enjoys the great outdoors - why not take him along? Photo courtesy of Deborah Lee Soltesz on Flickr.

This spring and summer, enjoy the sunshine with your four-legged friend! Dogs love Mother Nature, exploring, and getting exercise – why not combine all three? Hiking with your dog is an activity the whole family can enjoy. There are some hazards to hiking with your pet, and the most important thing is to be safe and have fun.

 

Pick a dog-friendly trail.

Some hiking trails and campsites don’t allow pets. Make sure you check before bringing your dog along. Call ahead to your local forest service station if you have any questions. Online directories like Bring Fido and Trails.com allow you to find dog-friendly hiking trails across the United States. Make sure to always pick up after your dog’s messes!

Get the right gear.

Consider investing in a hands-free leash or a dog harness to give you more control over your pet. If it’s colder than 45 degrees, outfit your dog in a warm jacket. Always put protective booties or shoes on your dog. These give your pet more grip on rough, uneven terrain and protect delicate paw pads from sharp debris. In hot temperatures, consider purchasing a cooling dog vest – soak it with water and as the water evaporates, your pet stays cool! A dog pack can help your pet share the load and carry his or her own treats, collapsible water bowls, and doggie bags. Be sure not to overpack your pet; 25% of your dog’s weight is generally the rule for young, healthy animals.

Check the weather.

If your pet isn’t used to extreme conditions – temperatures below 45 degrees or over 80 degrees – refrain from being outside for more than two hours. Some dog breeds are better in hot or cold temperatures. Short-nosed breeds just aren’t up to strenuous activity, so leave your pug or bulldog at home. In snow, always protect your dog’s paws with waterproof booties or shoes. For hiking in deep snow, select a waterproof, insulated jacket that covers your dog’s belly to prevent hypothermia. Hiking in summer still requires protective shoes, but made of breathable material to keep your pet cool. Make sure to take frequent water breaks whether in summer or winter and allow your dog to rest.

Watch for wildlife.

Always keep your dog leashed when outdoors and keep him or her within a four foot radius. Nearly every state has poisonous snakes; don’t let your pet sniff in suspicious holes or burrows. When hiking in areas with bears or mountain lions, pay special attention to your surroundings and your pet – Fido may notice another animal before you do. Ticks can transmit Lyme disease to humans and animals; thoroughly inspect every inch of yourself and your dog after hiking. Skunks and porcupines also pose dangers to your pet, so keep him or her on a short leash when wandering though especially wild nature.

 

Hitting the trails with your dog in sun or rain is a bonding experience all pet parents can benefit from. If you’re the outdoorsy type, consider investing in gear that will make hiking with your pet easier. Practice safety when out in the wild; keep your dog on a short leash and watch out for wild animals. Practice caution to avoid hypothermia and heatstroke. Most importantly, have fun with your pet!



Taylor Posted on by Taylor

dog jacket

When jogging in the snow, always provide your pet with a waterproof jacket and protective booties. Photo courtesy of TrueHistoryJVBA on Wikimedia Commons.

Running with your dog is an enjoyable activity that gets you and your pet in shape. Once you’ve got your pet into shape and built up a routine, it’s time to get more serious. Investing in doggy jogging gear can make the exercise experience more beneficial for your dog and easier for you. If you plan on jogging in winter, cold-weather garb is essential for humans and canine alike.

 

Hands-free Leash

Why you need it: Holding your pet’s leash can throw a runner off balance; if your pet veers off course, you risk getting your arm yanked out!

How it worksHands-free leashes go around your waist with a lead that attaches to your dog’s collar.

Useful features: Built-in pouches for energy gels or house keys, water bottle holders, or doggy bag dispensers.

Price: $20 to $60

Packs

Why you need it: Long-distance runners need to hydrate and carb-load; carrying enough water and snacks for you and your pet is a hassle.

How it works: Backpacks strap or buckle around your pet’s torso.

Useful features: Built-in water storage with nozzles, multiple pockets, bulletproof material, water bottle holders

Price: $25 – $150

Booties and Shoes

Why you need it: In temperatures 40 degrees and under, a dog’s paw pads are vulnerable to scrapes and scratches. Outside in winter, paws may also come into contact with antifreeze or road salt, which they can ingest later while cleaning. If you’re jogging on trails, shoes protect paws from rough terrain.

How it works: The shoes fit over the dog’s paw and strap or buckle on around the ankle.

Useful features: Orthopedic inserts, covers to protect straps from deep snow, waterproofing, grippy soles, breathable material, and reflective strips.

Price: $20 – $45

Doggy Bag Dispensers

Why you need it: Carrying around plastic grocery bags can be bulky and messy.

How it works: These little dispensers clip onto your dog’s collar, backpack, or leash and contain a dozen or more doggie bags.

Useful features: Refillable, built-in to leashes, many colors and attachable to collars, backpacks, leashes

Price: $3 – $15

Travel Water Bowls

Why you need it: Keep your pet hydrated while on the run with portable, collapsible water bowls.

How it works: Typically made of silicone or plastic, these bowls are made for travel and easily fit in a pocket.

Useful features: Collapsibility, portability, non-porous material, and compact size

Price: $5 – $10

Healthy Dog Bones

Why you need it: After an exhausting run, feed your dog a protein- and carb-filled doggy bone to replenish nutrients and pump up energy.

How it works: Ingredients like peanut butter, meat, and nuts have protein, while apples, sweet potatoes, and grains provide the carbs.

Useful features: Taste good too!

Price: $2 – $10, depending on the quantity per pack.

Waterproof Track Jacket

Why you need it: Keep Fido from getting cold and wet in the rain with a waterproof coat.

How it works: Jackets buckle around the dog’s torso.

Useful features: Reflective material, pockets, fleece lining, sleeves or sleeveless, and insulation

Price: $20 – $50

 

If you’re serious about your canine running partner, investing in some key jogging equipment for your pet is essential. Boots and jackets keep your pet from getting cold and wet while protecting delicate paws. Doggy bag dispensers and hands-free leashes make everyday tasks a little easier. Healthy dog treats provide your pet with a post-workout boost. Happy trails!



Taylor Posted on by Taylor

jogging with dog

Always keep your pet leashed when jogging and on the opposite side of any obstacles, like roads - or the ocean! Photo courtesy of ceiling on Flickr.

As all pet parents know, dogs need exercise. Going for a walk with your pet is one of the easiest ways to exercise human and canine. Kick it up a notch and ease into jogging with your dog. Here are three easy steps to switching things up.

 

1. What breed and age is your dog?

Like humans, some dogs are more suited to running. Match your activity level with your ideal dog breed:

  • Marathon runs 10 miles +: Weimaraners, Vizslas, and German shorthaired pointers
  • Short, quick runs: Greyhounds, pit bulls, Beagles, and Golden and Labrador retrievers
  • Long, steady runs: Labrador retrievers, poodles, and dalmatians

Weather conditions can make a difference too:

  • Hot temperatures: Vizslas, Airedale terriers, fox terriers, and Rhodesian ridgebacks
  • Cold temperatures: Malamutes, German shepherds, Swiss mountain dogs, and huskies

Overall, medium-sized dogs with an enthusiastic attitude and plenty of energy make the best jogging partners. Short-nosed breeds like pugs and bulldogs have difficulty breathing on strenuous jogs, so go easy on them!

Don’t start training your canine companion too young; puppies’ growing bones are vulnerable to injury. Only pets older than nine months and younger than ten years old should engage in jogging. Senior dogs’ joints can ache from arthritis or hip dysplasia. Short walks are actually healthy for older dogs, but jogging can cause pain or injury. No matter what your pet’s age, get him or her checked out by your vet before you begin any serious training; strenuous jogging can exacerbate any minor, unnoticed injury.

2. Work up to it.

Don’t try and make a couch potato pet into a hardcore athlete in a day. Overweight pets need to shed some pounds before they’re read to pound the pavement. Start by walking three times a week at a steady pace for 15 to 20 minutes. Add five minutes to the time every week, and gradually increase your pace.

3. Watch for signs of fatigue.

You can tell if Fido’s had enough if you notice any of the following symptoms:

  • Flattened ears
  • Tucked-down tail
  • Heavy panting
  • Dragging hind legs
  • Laying down and refusing to get up

Too much exercise and your pooch will be lethargic afterwards; skip the next walk to allow your pet to recover.

4. Teach your pet running etiquette.

Always control your dog with a leash or harness. This allows you to keep your pet on the beaten path and teach him or her not to stop for potty breaks every five feet. If you’re jogging on a street, direct your pet to the inside, away from the road. Always keep your pet within a three foot radius of you. If you’re on a narrow path and another jogger comes along, step off to the side and prevent your pet from interacting with him or her – not everyone loves dogs. And most importantly, always pick up after your pet!

 

Jogging with your pet can be a fun, healthy way to bond. However, not every dog is suited to running a marathon, and some pets flat out shouldn’t because of breed, health, or age restrictions. Work up to long jogs and enjoy the time you spend with your pet!



Taylor Posted on by Taylor

This National Be Kind to Animals Day, volunteer at your local wildlife shelter! Photo courtesy of www.projects-abroad.org.

Mark your calendars; the first week of May is National Pet Week as well as National Be Kind to Animals Week! Obviously this is a time to appreciate your own pet, but why not spread the love to others?

In these tough economic times, adoption shelters and animal charities really appreciate donations of any kind. Seek out your local animal shelter with donations of the following items:

  • Canned and dry cat and dog food
  • Cat scratching posts
  • Dog and cat beds
  • Dog leashes and collars
  • Flea and tick medications
  • Gift cards to home improvement, animal supply, and grocery stores

Monetary donations are always appreciated, and check with your local shelter for a more specific list of items!

Pet overpopulation is rising, and animal shelters can’t handle the influx of strays, which are often euthanized. In just seven years, one female cat and her offspring can produce between 100 to 400 cats! Spaying and neutering your pet is important, especially if they are allowed to roam outside.

Vaccinating your animal is also a must, as it protects them from diseases ranging from kennel cough to rabies. Most animals are vaccinated as puppies, with booster shots administered at various points. Schedule regular check-ups with your veterinarian to ensure your pet is properly protected.

Even with the best pet care, accidents happen and your furry friend gets injured or sick. Pet insurance can save you from the unexpected costs of medical treatment, and is a viable option for most pet owners.

Coinciding with National Pet Week is National Be Kind to Animals Week! There are many free, simple things you can do to make life a little brighter for not only your pet, but those in your community as well!

  • Contact your local legislator and campaign for a dog park in your neighborhood!
  • Pick up litter in your neighborhood; wildlife can get caught in or choke on trash.
  • Hold a fundraiser for an animal shelter or charity in your city.
  • Participate in beach cleanups, removing debris and oil from local beaches.
  • Volunteer at an aquarium, zoo, or animal shelter!
  • If you’re looking to acquire a pet, consider adopting or fostering a pet! Ninety percent of animals a shelter receives must be euthanized because they can’t find homes.

This first week of May, treat your pet and do a little extra for animals in your community!

 



Michelle Posted on by Michelle

 

Pet HolidayIn Honor of Pet Week

National Pet Week 2012

Celebrated the 2nd Week Of May

This year the American Veterinary Medical Association is celebrating the 31st anniversary of National Pet Week.

Even if you missed the official National Pet Week celebrations you can still get in on the fun with your pet.   Try these 5 treats you’ll both enjoy!

 

  1. PARTY!!! Throw a party for your pet.  Invite his friends and yours for a special day of games and treats including fetch races, Frisbee tossing and singing competitions (Whose dog doesn’t like to howl to the banjo?) Don’t forget to take lots of photos.
  2. Your Pet Forever Immortalized. Draw a picture of your best friend and post it at your desk for a real conversation starter!
  3. Get a new toy for fun and health. Cats and dogs alike appreciate a new play-thing to explore.  It keeps them active and interested.
  4. Take your pet to the beauty parlor for a professional coiffure. Give yourself a break from the grooming chore and see how swank your pet can be with a treatment from a professional groomer.
  5. Adopt a homeless pet! If you’re ready to add more 4-legged love to your home, there’s a homeless pet ready to fill the role! Find a pet now >>

 

Pet Holiday!

Mark Your Calendar for Friday, June 22nd

Friday, June 22nd = Take Your Dog To Work Day (TYDTWDay)

This special day was established by the Pet Sitters International organization to help promote the positive aspects of canine companionship and to encourage the adoption of dogs from animal rescues.  Check with your employer to see about organizing a TYDTWDay and adoption awareness event.

If Friday is not the best day for your office, or other types of pet parents would like to participate in the festivities, no worries!  The entire week of June 18th – 22nd is actually Take Your Pet to Work Week.  So if you need to schedule your pet event for a different day or need to offer additional days for various types of pets, you have the entire week to schedule plans.

If your pet is new to the idea of going to work with you and you’re not sure what to expect, visit the official TYDTWDay web site for info on preparing your dog for the office.

If your office is new to the notion of having pets on-board and you’re not sure how to get buy in on hosting four-legged visitors, TYDTWDay also offers tips on winning over your boss and planning a successful event. Visit the official TYDTWDay web site for more ideas on how to participate in this fur-tastic holiday >>.

 

♥  ♥  ♥  ♥  ♥  ♥  ♥



Taylor Posted on by Taylor

veterinary technician

Veterinary technicians take pet's vitals and perform lab tests in addition to assisting veterinarians.

Animal healthcare is a rising career field; pets are receiving the best medical care now more than ever. Interested in helping animals? Then being a veterinary technician is for you.

 

What kind of work do veterinary technicians do?

Vet techs’ jobs are similar to human nurses. Tasks they are required to perform include:

  • Observations, such as taking temperature, pulse, etc.
  • Cleaning/dressing wounds and applying splints
  • Preparing and performing tests, such as blood work and urinalysis
  • Assisting veterinarians in surgery
  • Inserting IVs, catheters, and feeding tubes

Basically, a veterinary technician does basic animal care and overall assists the veterinarian.

What kinds of places do they work?

Vet techs work in veterinary clinics alongside veterinarians, so wherever there’s a veterinarian, there’s a tech! In addition to clinics, zoos, animal shelters, boarding kennels, and farms may also require their services.

What schooling is involved?

An associate’s or bachelor’s degree in a major approved by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) is required. These approved fields include science, occupational science, applied science, and veterinary technology. During this schooling you will be required to have hands-on experience in a veterinary clinic. Most states require veterinary technicians to pass a licensing exam after a degree is acquired.

What is the job outlook for veterinary technicians?

Excellent. The need for vet techs is expected to increase 36% from 2008 to 2018, according to the United States Bureau of Labor.

How much money do vet techs make?

The average hourly wage in the United States is currently $14.92, with the average yearly salary $31,030 (U.S. Bureau of Labor). California, Texas, Florida, New York, and Pennsylvania are the top five states with the highest numbers of employed veterinary technicians.

 

Because of the increased demand for excellent animal healthcare, the number of veterinary technicians needed is on the rise. Job outlook is excellent, and there is not much schooling and an associate’s degree in a science is required, along with a certification test.



Michelle Posted on by Michelle

Meet Brody

Thanks to an Every Quote Gives Hope Grant, three-year-old Brody was able to receive the medical care needed to make him healthy and adoptable.

In January we launched the Every Quote Gives Hope™ program through the Healthy Paws Foundation.  With this program the simple act of getting a pet insurance quote from Healthy Paws results in a donation towards a homeless pet’s medical care. We deliver that care by making cash grants to pet adoption organizations specifically for life-saving vaccines, spay/neuter surgeries, and advanced medical treatments.

We’re giving away a minimum of 5 grants a month and aim to grant at least $25,000 in 2012. Our first set of medical grants has now gone to five well-deserving animal rescue groups.  We invite you to visit them online and checkout their good work.

Rescue Spotlight – Golden Retriever Rescue of North Texas, Brody’s Story

One pet who was helped with an Every Quote Gives Hope grant is Brody, a 3-year-old homeless dog who found his way to Golden Retriever Rescue of North Texas (GRRNT).  The vet team at GRRNT determined that he had a torn ACL as well as hookworms, and that he was suffering from lumbosacral disease.  Dogs with lumbosacral disease may feel pain from mild to severe in the lower back and may have difficulty sitting, getting up, or wagging their tail.

With the help of the Every Quote Gives Hope grant the team at GRRNT was able to perform a successful surgery on Brody’s ACL and provide daily medications that help him live a happy, fulfilling life. Brody actually has one more surgery to go on the other ACL, but will soon be ready to find his forever home where he can let his golden personality shine through!

Current Grant Recipients

Congratulations to these dedicated groups for a job well done and a hearty “Thank You!” for serving the needs of homeless cats and dogs in their communities.

Atlanta Animal Rescue Friends, Inc.

Golden Retriever Rescue of North Texas

Agape Animal Rescue

St. Seton’s Orphaned Animals

Houndhaven, Inc.

 

♥  ♥  ♥  ♥  ♥  ♥  ♥  ♥



Michelle Posted on by Michelle

Online Customer Accounts

Easily manage your pet insurance claims online with personalized forms.

Your Personalized Online Claim Form

We know that accidents and illnesses are unexpected events, and we also know the last thing a pet parent wants to worry about under stress is paper work.  That’s why every pet protected with Healthy Paws has a personalized claim form available online 24/7.   So that no matter when you need us, getting your pet’s claim started will be simple and quick.

Emergency Readiness! To make caring for your pet during a health crisis a little easier, we recommend planning ahead by leaving a copy of your personalized claim form with your veterinarian office.  Then, if you ever need it, everything will be ready to go and you’ll be one step closer to focusing on your pet’s care and not the costs…or the paperwork.

Access your secure online account and check-out your pet’s personalized claim form today.

Get started now!  Go to “My Account” >>

 

♥  ♥  ♥  ♥  ♥  ♥  ♥



Taylor Posted on by Taylor

veterinarian

Becoming a vet isn't easy, but it is very rewarding! Image via www.globalhealthvet.wordpress.com.

Are you an animal lover looking for a career? Consider becoming a veterinarian! Here are some frequently asked questions about the veterinarian career and how to make your dream come true.

 

What kind of work do veterinarians do?

The main service veterinarians provide is diagnosing and treating medical conditions in animals. Vaccinating and administering medications, treating and dressing wounds, setting broken bones, and performing surgery are all within a veterinarian’s repertoire. Depending on who your employer is, a veterinarian could work with animals ranging from guinea pigs to goats to giraffes! Being able to get along with pet parents is essential; sometimes people are not entirely rational when it comes to their pets, and being able to confidently and calmly explain a condition or procedure is important.

What kinds of places do they work?

Most veterinarians are employed in private practices or animal hospitals. Some can work in zoos or on farms as well. If you want to be a research veterinarian, you will work in a laboratory.

What schooling is involved?

You will need a four year undergraduate degree from a university, preferably in a scientific field. Make sure you take the prerequisite classes needed to get into veterinary graduate school. The next step is applying to veterinary graduate school; good grades are important, but many other factors are considered as well. Graduate school is extremely competitive and you  may not get into your dream school. Work hard to show you are a well-rounded individual – get letters of recommendation, volunteer, and take extra classes that might give you a leg up. Scoring well on the Graduate Record Examination (GRE), Biology GRE, or the MCAT is also required to gain entry to veterinary school. Your goal is to acquire a Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine. The final step is becoming licensed by the state you plan to work in by taking the North America Veterinary Licensing Exam, a grueling 8-hour, 360-question test.

What is the job outlook for veterinarians?

Because schooling is so expensive and involves graduate school, not everyone can just become a veterinarian. This makes veterinarians in high demand; the amount of vets needed in the US is expected to grow 33% from 2008 – 2018, much higher than the average job.

How much money do vets make?

Being a veterinarian is a highly specialized job that requires extensive schooling; because of this, the pay is very well. The average pay for veterinarians in 2008 was $79,050. Your salary varies depending on what kinds of animals you work with – small animals, large animals, horses, or a mixture. For more information on pay, visit the US Bureau of Labor Statistics website.

 

Veterinarians are a very in-demand job because of their specialized schooling and pricey education. If you are considering a veterinary career, make sure you go the extra mile to ensure acceptance into veterinary graduate school, which is highly competitive. Prospective vets should love animals and be able to effectively communicate with pet parents. If being a vet is your dream job, good luck!



Taylor Posted on by Taylor

dog park etiquette

Keep a close eye on your pet while at the dog park; a friendly sniff can turn into a fight before you know it!

Dogs parks can be a great way to socialize your pet and get some exercise at the same time. But before you leash up Fido at head to the dog park, there are some rules you and your dog should comply with. These rules make the dog park a safe, clean environment that is also fun for pets and pet parents alike!

 

1. Leave a sick dog at home.

Because there are so many different dogs from different environments mixing in one place, the dog park can be a hothouse of infectious agents. Parasites like hookworms, roundworms, giardiasis, and coccidiosis thrive in feces and shared water bowls. If you think there is even a chance your pet could be infected with a contagious disease or parasite, stay at home.

2. Pick up your pet’s messes.

It goes without saying that as a pet parent you are responsible for any little presents your dog might drop while you’re at the dog park. Some facilities might have baggies available, but always bring your own – better safe than sorry!

3. Keep an eye on your dog.

No dog likes a bully! Don’t zone out while your pet plays; watch your dog closely for any ill manners or rough play, whether it’s your pet on the giving or receiving end of the bad behavior. You should also watch your dog to ensure his or her health – ingesting feces or drinking from a shared water bowl can lead to a parasitic infection.

4. Be mindful of your pet’s age and personality.

Some dogs are better off getting their exercise other ways. If you answer yes to any of the following, refrain from bringing your pet to the dog park.

  • Is your pet younger than four months?
  • Is your dog in heat?
  • Are you unclear of your pet’s current health status?
  • Is your pet shy or easily frightened, especially around other dogs?
  • Has your dog every had problems bullying or being aggressive to other dogs?
  • Does your dog not respond to your commands?

If you find the dog park is not an option for your pet, don’t worry, there are many other types of exercise you can do! Swimming, walking or jogging, playing fetch or tug-of-war, and hiking can all get you and your dog moving.

5. Bring your own supplies.

While the area inside the dog park may be safe to release your dog, it’s important to have your pet on a leash at all times when outside the park. Bring a sturdy leash and collar with you whenever you visit the park, along with doggie bags to pick up after your pet. Bringing your own water and bowl is essential for pet parents who are dog park regulars. Communal water bowls can host many types of parasites that can be tricky and expensive to treat. Be safe and don’t let your dog share with others!

 

Bringing your pooch to the dog park can be an enriching experience. Dogs benefit from both the exercise and the social time they get to spend with other dogs. When you’re at a public dog park it’s important to be mindful of others and their pets; not all dogs are as well-behaved as yours, and even your perfect pooch may not play so nice around others! Be safe and respectful and both you and your dog will have fun at the dog park.