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Taylor

Introducing Your Pet to Your Baby

Posted on February 21st, 2012 by Taylor
dog and baby

Always supervise dog-baby interactions, especially around newborns. Image via www.sheknows.com.

Animals are sensitive to newcomers infringing on their territory. When you bring your new baby home, your cat or dog may experience some jealousy, which can manifest in aggression or anxiety. However, some pets may be more magnanimous towards the newcomer and integrate them into the household with no issues. There are some preventative measures you can undertake to ensure the transition goes smoothly, as well as guidelines for after your baby arrives.

 

Take a Training Refresher

You have nine months to prepare for your baby’s arrival – those preparations should include giving your pet a crash course in canine behavior. Having an out-of-control dog who doesn’t listen to your commands can be dangerous around a young child. There are many affordable dog training courses available in your area, and some pet supply stores offer courses as well; search online to find one locally. If your dog’s manners are up to par, just practice sits and stays at home. If you have a puppy, crate training is essential when you need to confine your pet. Work with your dog in the time before you bring your bundle of joy home, and you’ll find things around the house run much smoother!

Visit Your Vet and Groomer

While the mom-to-be has regular doctor’s appointments, it’s important to keep track of your pet’s health as well. Schedule a checkup for your cat or dog in advance to avoid any surprise health scares. If your pet has any pre-existing conditions, your vet can evaluate their status. Getting rid of any parasites, such as fleas or tapeworms, is also essential before you bring a baby home.

About a week before the baby’s arrival, give your pet a grooming session – a nail clipping, ear cleaning, and tooth brushing. If your cat or dog has long fur and requires professional grooming, this is the time for a fur-cut! Grooming reduces dander and cast-off fur, which newborns can be sensitive to. It’s especially important for cats to have their claws trimmed; felines may accidentally clip a baby’s skin, causing injury.

Acclimate Your Pet

If possible, set up the baby’s room a few months in advance to get your cat or dog used to its presence. Some parents prefer to keep the nursery pet-free, so now is the time to establish boundaries for your dog. Allow your dog to sniff around the room, but don’t allow him or her to remain inside unsupervised. If your pet tends to mark his or her territory, keep a close eye to prevent this from occurring. Dogs with noise phobias should be gradually introduced to infant crying; play recordings and give your pet positive reinforcement.

Before the new mom comes home from the hospital, have another family member or friend bring home a piece of the newborn’s clothing – a hat, sock, blanket – for your pet to smell. When the proud parents come home, allow your pet to sniff around each family member, minus baby. After everyone has calmed down, ask your dog to sit. Gradually bring the dog closer to the baby, until they are within a foot of each other; some gentle sniffing should occur, and the meeting will be over!

Provide “Me Time” For Your Pet

Dogs and cats can feel neglected after a new family member is brought home. It’s important to make sure you spend time with your pet, maintaining the daily routine you have built up with your dog or cat. There will be some unavoidable changes that come with adding a new human to the household, but try to keep the same feeding, walking, and bathroom break times as before. Some pets can develop separation anxiety or exhibit destructive behaviors and aggression if emotionally neglected. Regular walks or jogs with your dog can be important bonding times and show your pet how much they are still loved and cared for.

 

Adding a new member to the family – whether it be feline, canine, or human – can be stressful on existing pets. Bringing home a new baby is always a trying time for parents; ensuring your pet’s health can prevent any unwanted medical surprises. Grooming your dog or cat can counteract any irritants such as dander that might affect the health of a newborn. Gradual introduction of a new baby to your pet is essential, as is setting aside time to spend with your cat or dog. With preemptive measures, you can ensure the safety of the human and animal members of your household.

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Taylor

Pet Sitter vs Boarding – Which is better for your pet?

Posted on January 24th, 2012 by Taylor
boarding kennel

Boarding kennels typically keep animals contained in close-set cages or crates. A pet sitter allows your animal to remain in their own household. Image via www.staffordboardingkennel.com.

When you plan a vacation, you can’t always take your pet with you. It’s important to make plans for your cat or dog so they’re well-fed and properly taken care of while you’re away. There are several options for traveling pet parents – hire a professional pet sitter or board them at a doggy daycare or kennel. The choice you select should take into account your pet’s age, type (cat or dog), and behavioral and medical needs.

 

Pet Sitting

This method of pet watching involves hiring a professional “pet sitter” to keep a close eye on your cat or dog from the safety and comfort of your home. Selecting a trustworthy sitter is essential; choose a company that thoroughly screens employees and is a member of the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters.

Pros

  • Your pet can keep his or her routine. Especially if you own a puppy or kitten, sticking to a bathroom and feeding regimen is essential.
  • Kennels can harbor highly contagious illnesses like kennel cough, intestinal parasites, and distemper. When your pet remains in the safety of their own home, exposure to these diseases is minimal.
  • In the event of an emergency, pet sitters are specially trained to handle any health emergencies that may occur. If you have a pet with special dietary or medical needs, the caretaker can administer medications.
  • Pets are given special attention and playtime with pet sitters; things that kennels charge extra for.
  • Pet sitters can also bring in mail, water plants, and turn lights on/off to deter burglars while you’re away.

Cons

  • Since pet sitters typically charge anywhere from $10 upwards per house visit, that can add up fast; dogs need to be let out multiple times per day, especially puppies.
  • If your dog or cat doesn’t react well to strangers, especially displaying signs of aggression, he or she may not be too fond of a pet sitter.

Boarding

This is the most common method pet parents select; it’s slightly cheaper than a pet sitter, but the quality of care is often less. Some doggy daycares are often more specialized and high-end than kennels – and also more expensive. Kennels will meet your pet’s basic needs – food, exercise, bathroom – for a lower price, but there are also hazards that go along with choosing this option.

Pros

  • Since pet sitters charge per visit, the charges can rack up; this is especially important for pet parents with canines. Kennels usually bill per day, with special extras offered for an additional price.

Cons

  • Contagious diseases, like kennel cough, distemper, giardiasis and coccidiosis are found in kennels. The cramped conditions make it simple for viruses and parasites to travel with ease among dogs and cats. Puppies and kittens especially should avoid being boarded as their immune systems are very susceptible to picking up these illnesses.
  • Since there’s so many animals in one place, the staff can’t give each pet special attention. Extra playtime or walk sessions must be purchased in addition to boarding fees.
  • The kennel will perform feedings, bathroom breaks, and walks according to their schedule, not yours. Particularly with puppies, sticking to a schedule is important, so boarding a young animal is not recommended.

 

The bottom line is this: while pet sitters offer higher quality care, they’re also more expensive; kennels are cheaper but can expose your dog to contagious illnesses and ruin their routines. Choose a pet care service that meets your dog or cat’s needs and your own budget. Pet parents with young animals or those with special medical needs should consider pet sitters in order to keep them on a strict regimen. Adult dogs without these requirements have no problems being boarded and emerge perfectly fine.

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Taylor

Entertain Your Dog While You’re at Work

Posted on January 23rd, 2012 by Taylor
dog watching tv

Leaving the TV on for your pet can provide them with intellectual stimulation! Try Animal Planet or your local news channel. Image via www.dogs.thefuntimesguide.com.

When you go off to work and leave your dog at home, what do they do all day? If you’re looking to give your pooch some intellectual stimulation, there are several easy things you can do!

 

  1. Get a stuffable toy. Balls and toys that can be filled with treats will entertain your dog for hours. One fun way is to coat a dog biscuit with peanut butter and place it inside a Kong toy – a Healthy Paws toy of the week!
  2. Turn on the TV. Dogs enjoy hearing human voices, and they may even “watch” the TV! DVDs specifically created to be virtual doggy sitters are available online that feature stimulating images like other dogs, squirrels, and more. Sometimes even just putting on music can help a dog feel less lonely.
  3. Consider doggy daycare or a dog walker. If your pet rarely is in the company of other canines, doggy daycare can provide important socialization. Check the internet or the Yellow Pages for daycares near you. Having a dog walker stop by and take your dog for a midday walk can also be beneficial.
  4. Play before work. Taking your dog for a walk or throwing the ball around before you leave will tire them out. Then they’ll just sleep it off for the rest of the day and be ready for round two when you come home! This time can also provide important dog-pet parent bonding time and prevent your pet from feeling neglected.
  5. Adopt another dog! A pair of pooches can provide each other with playtime even when you’re gone. However, don’t leave new dogs together until a few weeks after they’ve been introduced; even if they seem fine when you’re there, a fight could erupt when you’re not home. To be safe, remove all toys from the house while you’re gone to prevent possessive aggression.

 

Don’t be worried if you have to leave for work during the day; dogs are perfectly capable of entertaining themselves, given the right tools. Have plenty of toys around, especially those that can be stuffed with treats! Consider putting the TV or radio on to provide human voices. Playing with your dog before you leave for work can tire them out and allow them to nap peacefully all day – then you’ll be back before they know it! And of course, adopting another dog can provide a playmate for your pooch even when you’re not there.

 

If your dog exhibits destructive behaviors, like digging, clawing, or defecating inside the house, they may be experiencing separation anxiety. Confine them to a space where they can’t destroy anything and shower them with affection when you are around. If the problem doesn’t resolve itself or escalates, see a vet – there may be health issues to blame.

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Taylor

Introducing…A New Dog!

Posted on January 20th, 2012 by Taylor
dog and cat napping

Cats are often less intimidated by smaller dogs. If you're concerned about your pets getting along, consider adopting a miniature breed! Image via www.dailypets.co.uk.

Acquiring a new pet is a thrilling experience that means more love, more vacuuming – and more problems? If you already have a dog or cat, it’s important to get them thoroughly acquainted; pets not on good terms can make life difficult in the household. Fortunately there are some tried-and-true tricks to creating a positive first impression between your pets.

 

Casual Canines

Dogs can easily pick up on body and facial cues – if you’re nervous or tense about your pets  meeting, they’ll feed off that energy. Keep your face and body calm and use a happy tone of voice when speaking. Pet both dogs, giving them equal attention.

  1. It’s recommended that you have another person with you for the dogs’ first meeting – both dogs should be leashed and held loosely. Take them on a short walk together. Pay attention to body language, such as raised hackles, tucked tails, and ears pulled back.
  2. Allow the animals to do their usual sniffing, but don’t force any interaction. Distracting the dogs from each other with treats or asking them to “sit” or “lie down” prevents aggression from surfacing.
  3. If neither dog has showed any signs of fear or aggression and they appear relaxed and comfortable with each other, bring them back to the house together!
  4. Remove any toys from your house – your existing pet may display signs of aggressive possessiveness if the newcomer discovers them. Lead your new dog directly to their separate bowls and bed, and place them in a location far from your other dog’s possessions.
  5. When you leave or can’t see your dogs, secure them in different rooms to prevent any squabbles from breaking out. At any signs of trouble, place them in these areas.

 

Friendly to Felines?

Cats are extremely territorial and are often threatened by dogs’ size. However, some animals become lifelong friends! It’s important not to force the animals to interact and let them (literally) sniff things out on their own.

  1. Make sure your new pooch readily responds to basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “lie down.” Ask the shelter if the dog has experience with felines; it’ll make the task ahead much easier if they have!
  2. Keep the dog loosely leashed for this first meeting – dogs can see cats as equals to chase and roughhouse with, and this can result in injury on the cat’s part. On the flip side, allow your cat plenty of room to escape if he becomes uncomfortable.
  3. Casually bring your dog into the room where your cat is, and allow both animals to gently sniff each other out. If either pet displays any signs of aggression, remove the dog from the room or distract him with a command.
  4. When both animals can co-exist without running in fear from the other, your job is done. To get to that point may take weeks or months, however – leashed meet-and-greets between your pets should continue until the duo seem tolerant of each other.

 

Bringing a new dog home can be threatening to already existing pets – they may jealously guard their territory through displays of aggression or become needy and whine for attention. First impressions are important, even among animals, so set a tone that’s casual and calming in order to get off on the right paw.

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Taylor

Introducing…A New Cat!

Posted on January 17th, 2012 by Taylor
two cats

While your own felines may not act chummy at first, some cats do become pals over time! Image via www.dailypets.co.uk.

Adopting another pet is always exciting and fun; pets and kids get a playmate and a lucky animal gets a new home. However, your existing pets might not see it that way at first. Introducing your new addition to the furry family is extremely important – first impressions are everything, right?

 

Fostering Feline Friendship

If you already have a cat, introducing another one can be tricky, as cats are generally solitary animals. Creating plenty of hidey-holes for your cats can ensure privacy. Each feline should have separate food and water bowls, bed, and litter box. It can take anywhere from a few weeks to a year for co-existing cats to warm up to each other; unless either is displaying overt aggression – hissing, flattened ears, puffed-up fur, etc. – then they’re perfectly fine.

Creating Cat-Canine Companionship

Dogs are generally more curious than territorial; however, they may treat the cat as one of its own, resulting in chasing or roughhousing. Unless your dog is a smaller breed, dogs are capable of serious injuring cats during rough play or responding to feline aggression. It’s important to be able to control your dog during the meet-and-greet with your new cat; practice basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “down” for a few weeks before.

Steps to Success

  1. Keep your new cat confined to a small, closed-off area for up to a week. Place both animals’ food and water on their respective sides near the door; this allows them to link eating with the other’s scent, creating a positive association.
  2. After a few days, confine your existing pet to the other’s room and allow the new addition to explore the house.
  3. Repeat this process a few times; gradual introduction is key with felines. Swapping items like blankets between the animals’ rooms can also allow them to acclimate to the other’s scent.
  4. Create a barrier that allows your pets to look but not touch. Two baby gates on top of each other or a screen door provides just the thing. Repeat several times.
  5. If no overtly aggressive signs from either animal have emerged, then it’s time for them to meet. Make sure your existing pet is occupied elsewhere, then open the door and allow your new cat to venture out. The pair’s meeting shouldn’t be staged, but accidental.

 

In most cases, introducing a new cat is no biggie. Your pre-existing pets may feel neglected, so ensure that you give them plenty of attention and love as well! The responsible pet parent can handily juggle multiple pets, be they cat or canine. Keeping eating and sleeping areas separate is essential, whether you have a cat and dog, or a pair of cats; this can help ease the issue of territorial aggression, which can arise with cats. Keep in mind the gender and age of your existing cat when looking to adopt – a younger animal of the opposite gender is usually the best choice.

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Taylor

Crate Training Your Puppy

Posted on January 16th, 2012 by Taylor
puppy crate

Let your puppy enter the crate on their own terms, leaving the door open for a few days until they seem comfortable inside. Image via www.mbfdogsupplies.com.

Teaching your puppy how to rest peacefully in a confined space is essential for those pet parents who work frequently or plan on traveling with their pet. Crate training requires persistence and patience; if you give up because of your pup’s whining, you’re only reinforcing their bad behavior. Unlike other types of dog training, crate training can only be taught by the pet parent, not in the doggy classroom.

Choosing a Crate

There are many types of crates to choose from; most pet supply stores carry them next to the doggy beds. When selecting one, keep in mind your dog’s size – most puppies are small, but choose a crate that can your pet can grow into and become comfortable with. Here are the most common crates and kennels and their uses:

  • Wire. The walls and roof of these crates are constructed of wire, giving the dog complete visibility of its surroundings; this can be soothing for some puppies. The bottom of the crate is usually a removable tray that can be easily cleaned or padded with a dog bed. Wire kennels are typically collapsible as well.

Good for travel? Some cars. Good for home use? Yes.

  • Plastic. This type of pet carrier is completely built of plastic, with a wire door and “windows” on the walls. Small and medium sized crates have handles, while larger ones are often wheeled for easy transport. If you travel a lot with your pet, crate training them in a carrier can help them see it as a second home. The sides of the carrier are detachable for easy cleaning.

Good for travel? Yes. Good for home use? Somewhat.

  • Soft-sided. Probably the most comfortable crate, this type is made of metal frame covered by a nylon or weather-resistant fabric with mesh sides and top for breathability. Doors can be zippered open or shut, and “windows” often have shades that can be fastened down. This crate is a good option for the outdoorsy pet parent or those who car travel.

Good for travel? Only cars. Good for home use? Yes, especially outdoors.

Preparing the Crate

It’s important to make the kennel look appealing to your puppy; furnish it with a comfortable bed or blankets and include toys. For plastic carriers, unfasten the top half; for wire and soft-sided crates, secure all doors so they stay open. This can make the kennel seem less confining to your puppy – after it seems comfortable with the crate, gradually recover the carrier and close all but one entrance. Place the crate in an area you spend a lot of time in, to encourage the puppy to relax in it near you when you’re home.

Steps to Success

  1. Several times a day, place small treats or bits of food inside the kennel to tempt your dog into the space. This allows your puppy to associate positive things with the crate.
  2. Whenever you see your puppy resting in the crate, praise and pet them. Never attempt to force your pet into the crate, as this can cause them to fear it.
  3. After your pet seems comfortable in the crate, close them inside, but remain within sight. Your puppy will be less afraid of being alone.
  4. If your pet isn’t whining excessively, leave the room with your dog closed in the crate. Do this gradually until your puppy seems at home in the crate, returning every hour or so to praise. Eventually you can leave the house; make sure to give plenty of love to your puppy when you return!

Before confining your puppy to their crate for more than two hours, ensure that they go to the bathroom to prevent accidents. Keep in mind that dogs younger than four months have very little bladder control, so try not to keep them crated for longer than two to three hours.

 

Crate training your dog can have numerous benefits – you don’t have to worry about your puppy destroying your house while you’re gone, for one. Most puppies come to enjoy time in their crates, or at the very least tolerate it. Try not to reward crying or whining, but don’t make your puppy feel trapped. With patience, crate training can be achieved in a matter of weeks.

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Renee

Cyber Monday- Holiday Gifts for Cat & Dog Owners

Posted on November 28th, 2011 by Renee
Cats Attack Scratching Post

Cats Attack! Scratching Post, courtesy of www.uncommongoods.com

It’s always challenging to find the perfect gift for a friend or family member. But if you’ve got some pet parents to buy for this year, Healthy Paws has some suggestions for you, and you can find them all with a few clicks of the mouse!

1.  Board Games such as Dog-Opoly or Cat-Opoly (Retail $24.95). Pieces are dog- and cat- themed (flea, cat, dog dish, T-bone steak, fire hydrant, mail carrier for dogs; milk bottle, mouse, sardines, cat food, fish, ball of yarn for cats), and you don’t buy properties, you buy different dog or cat breeds. There are dog breed-specific versions, too, including a Mutt-opoly.

2.  Ornaments (various prices). There are lots of sites out there that have ornaments featuring different dog and cat breeds. Take a look at some of the options over at Orvis, at Dog.com, or over at Hallmark.

3.  Luggage Tags (less than $10). Have a frequent flier on your list this year? Colorful dog or cat luggage tags make it easy to spot a suitcase!

4.  GPS ($115 and up). For the backpackers, hikers and other outdoor enthusiasts on your list who often take their dogs adventuring, how about a GPS device to help them navigate safely? The folks over at GPS Tracklog have some great buyers guides, with options at several price points.

5.  Jewelry, glassware, toys and more (varies). There’s always something fun to be found over at the Uncommon Goods site. From the Inconvenient Kitty Tumblers to the Bad Dog Coasters and the Cats Attack! Scratching Post that makes it look like your cats are attacking a major city like Godzilla would, they’ve got a lot of unique items that will make your favorite pet parent smile or just flat-out laugh.

These are just a few suggestions of the many items on the market for pet parents. All can be ordered quickly and easily from your computer, without you having to brave the stores.

Happy shopping from Healthy Paws!

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Renee

Our Favorite Pet Toy of the Week- Play-n-Squeak At Night Twinkle Mouse

Posted on November 18th, 2011 by Renee
Twinkle Mouse Cat Toy

The Play-n-Squeak At Night Twinkle Mouse lights up

Continuing with our theme of night time cat toys, this week Healthy Paws looked at the Play-n-Squeak At Night Twinkle Mouse.

The Twinkle mouse lights up for nighttime hunting and play. This furry mouse with its feather tail will appeal to your cat’s hunting instincts, and should be a big hit.

While it does twinkle, and also squeaks like a real mouse might, the toy is quiet enough that as long as the cat’s not playing with it in your bedroom, play won’t wake you up.

Sold at various online pet toy retailers and also in stores, the Play-n-Squeak At Night Twinkle Mouse retails for less than $10.

What a great, inexpensive way to give your cat something constructive to do at night!

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Renee

Our Favorite Pet Toy of the Week- Safestix

Posted on November 11th, 2011 by Renee

When you’re outside playing with your dog, you wouldn’t think that playing fetch with a stick could be harmful.

But Healthy Paws has paid out dog insurance claims for “stick injuries,” and they’re more common than you think.

If your dog trips or simply bites down on the stick wrong, it could create a puncture wound. Then your vet must not only treat a wound, but also be concerned with splinters that could spread infection throughout the body.

Safestix

Photo courtesy of www.safestix.co.uk

Enter Safestix! Created by a U.K. couple after one of their dogs had a stick injury, the toy is made of non-toxic rubber, is brightly colored to help both you and your dog spot it, and it even floats. There are two sizes to choose from, depending on the size of your dog.

The toys are available online at DogToys.com, Amazon.com, and a few other websites, and will run you about $20. When you compare the cost of this safe toy to the pain and worry of helping your dog recover from a stick injury, it becomes a bargain! Healthy Paws dog insurance is there for you when you need us, but we much prefer healthy dogs!

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Renee

November 6-11 is National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week!

Posted on November 7th, 2011 by Renee
Tessi, an adoptable dog

Help a dog like Tessi, available through Homeward Pet Adoption Center!

The week had its start back in 1996 at the Capital Humane Society in Lincoln Nebraska, and has now grown into a national observance each year.

National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week is focused on promoting and acknowledging the valuable role animal shelters have in our communities and also to raise the public’s awareness of animal welfare issues and the services provided by animal shelters.

Many have heard of the Humane Society and the city and county animal shelters, but there are literally thousands of other private groups throughout the country that are quietly making a difference in their communities every day.

Here are just a few that Healthy Paws Pet Insurance works with regularly:

Homeward Pet Adoption Center is a nonprofit, no-kill animal shelter in the Seattle area that helps more than 1,300 cats and dogs find their forever homes every year, with as many as 50 cats and dogs available at any given time. They seek to promote no-kill alternatives through innovative programs. Each pet receives a full medical and behavioral evaluation, and the adoption staff works closely with adoptive pet parents to ensure their new family member’s successful transition into a permanent, loving home.

Named after a deaf and blind Australian Shepherd puppy owned by founder/director Lynne Tingle, The Milo Foundation is an established nonprofit, no-kill sanctuary providing an alternative for homeless pets throughout Northern California. Located on two hundred and eighty-three acres in Mendocino County, Milo offers lots of room for the animals to run and play, and they also have a satellite adoption center in San Rafael. Their mission is simple – rescue adoptable at-risk animals, match them to homes best suited to provide lifetime care, rehabilitate those who need it, offer sanctuary to those who are not placed, and educate the public about responsible pet guardianship, including spay/neuter.

Friends for Life Animal Rescue in Gilbert, Arizona, began as a small group in 1993, but within two years had grown with a solid volunteer base and a dedicated board of directors, and was handling hundreds of adoptions each year. Their focus is on the homeless and stray animals living on local streets and in the desert, who face starvation, illness, or injury as they try to survive alone. Their rescued pets have no time limit on how long it takes until they are adopted into loving homes, but the Friends for Life staff make it their goal to find a permanent, lifetime, loving home for every animal in their care.

Serving the Chicago area, Magnificent Mutts Rescue of Hillside, IL, was founded in 2001 by Linda Latelle. Limited to one dog as a child and told by her parents, “When you get married and have your own house, you can have as many dogs as you want,” Linda took the message to heart. As an adult, she volunteered and fostered for various rescues, before forming Magnificent Mutts. Today, Magnificent Mutts is an all-volunteer, foster-based rescue that provides love, hope, and a safe sanctuary to cats and dogs in need. Their motto: “They are all magnificent mutts.”

Founded in 1999, Atlanta Pet Rescue and Adoption has grown into the biggest, most highly regarded rescue group in the Atlanta area. APRA counts more than 14,000 successfully rescued dogs and cats, and can accommodate more than 80 dogs and 20 cats at any given time. Local residents can see APRA pets during their local outreach programs for area nursing home residents, at-risk youth, and injured soldiers transitioning back into civilian life.

Pablo, adoptable cat

Love Pablo? Call Magnificent Mutts!

So how can you celebrate National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week? There are lots of ways, and they don’t all involve adopting a new pet:

  1. Adopt a new pet! (Hey, I said they don’t ALL involve adoption!) Visit www.Petfinder.com, or do a quick internet search for “pet adoption” or “animal shelter,” plus your city’s name. Rescued pets all have as much love and affection to give as any other, and you might just find your new furry best friend.
  2. Volunteer. There are lots of ways to help out, from becoming a foster parent, to walking dogs, spending time playing with and petting the cats, and even volunteering your professional or amateur services. Do you take great photos, or are you a retired groomer? A whiz with websites or marketing? Run a print shop? Call your local shelter and see if there’s a way you can help out.
  3. Donate. Not only do these groups appreciate monetary donations to help house their rescued pets, but gifts of used towels and blankets make great pet bedding. Accidentally got the wrong food for your pet but didn’t realize it until it was open or too late to return it? Give a call… they’ll probably gladly take it!
  4. Spay or Neuter your own pets. Help control the pet population, and reduce the number of homeless pets in years to come. There are also lots of health benefits to spaying and neutering, too- just ask your veterinarian.
  5. Share a homeless pet’s story in your social network. Find an adoptable pet at a shelter near you, and share that profile via your Facebook, Twitter, Google Plus, and other social networking areas. You never know, that face might just be the perfect companion one of your friends has been searching for!

There are lots of ways you can celebrate National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week- get creative, and make a difference in the lives of these loving pets!

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