Pets

Pet Owners Beware: Pests are Poised for Attack

Submitted by Joe Kirchmyer on Monday, May 14th, 2:49 pm

(Welcome to our pet column, courtesy of Pet Connection Programs Inc. of Marilla. We post a new article each week, so be sure to check back on a regular basis!)

Pets, like humans, have been anxiously waiting for warm weather to play outdoors and enjoy nature. However, pet owners should prepare for a pest battle unlike in previous years as hungry ticks, fleas and mosquitoes await their prey — of the two- or four-legged kind.

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Northtowns Pet Blog: Easing Separation Anxiety

Submitted by Laura Stauffiger, Northtowns Community Blogger, Owner of Laura's Critter Care

Tuesday, May 8th, 2012, 12:33am

Northtowns Pet Blog: Easing Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety is a very common behavior that is expressed when a dog is left alone. Usually, it is a severe contrast with his normal behavior when he is around people. A dog with separation anxiety may be destrucive, potty in the house, cry, bark, yelp, slobber and pace. It can begin as young as 9 months of age and is also common in older dogs who are losing their sight and hearing and are more dependent on their owners. Your veterinarian can easily diagnose this behavioral disorder after ruling out possible medical causes.

The anxiety level can vary as well as the intensity of unwanted behaviors. Signs of a dog with separation anxiety are:

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Are Pets, Birds and Insects Making a Mess of Your Car?

Submitted by Joe Kirchmyer on Monday, May 7th, 12:31 pm

(Welcome to our pet column, courtesy of Pet Connection Programs Inc. of Marilla. We post a new article each week, so be sure to check back on a regular basis!)

Is Fido your favorite road trip companion? You're not alone. A recent Canadian Tire survey revealed that 23 percent of drivers typically travel with pets but only 14 percent of them make an effort to limit dirty paw prints, hair and unwanted slobber smears by putting them in a travel carrier.

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2 Your Pet: Help One Year Old Douglas

Submitted by Darryl Granger, Assignment Editor

Saturday, May 5th, 2012, 11:32am

Douglas is a one year old mixed-breed dog who is looking for a good home. He has been living in a foster home for several months.

His foster mother says that he is a friendly and active dog and gets along great with other dogs and kids.

For more information, you can visit the Buffalo Animal Shelter's Website, or call (716) 851-5694.

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Northtowns Pet Blog: Pet Health Hazards Abound In Spring-Are You Prepared?

Submitted by Laura Stauffiger, Northtowns Community Blogger, Owner of Laura's Critter Care

Wednesday, May 2nd, 2012, 2:15pm

Northtowns Pet Blog: Pet Health Hazards Abound In Spring-Are You Prepared?

As I was busy making my rounds walking clients dogs today I noticed one of the dogs kept walking over to flowers that were along our path. It made me think about how important it is to be aware of the potential dangers spring plants and fertilizers pose for pets.

Flowers and plants are decorative and not meant to be eaten. As with any non-food , some flowers and plants can have a varying effect on pets if ingested.

Being a cat and dog owner, I know it can be a challenge, but don't let cats and dogs ingest any parts of any plant. Keep indoor plants and bouquets in a spot that they cannot easily access.

I have included some information you can access here on some informative springtime tips to keep your pets safe.

Another tip: Familiarize yourself with which blooms are safe for pets and which could be toxic.

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May Dates Announced for Free Rabies Clinics in Erie County

Submitted by Katie Edenhofer, Community Web Producer

Wednesday, May 2nd, 2012, 9:27am

May Dates Announced for Free Rabies Clinics in Erie County

ERIE COUNTY, NY— Today, Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz, Commissioner of Health Dr. Gale Burstein and Erie County Legislator Lynn Marinelli (District 3) announced that upcoming rabies clinics will be held in the month of May. The clinics, conducted by the County Department of Health in association with the Niagara Frontier Veterinary Society and the SPCA Serving Erie County, provide free rabies vaccinations for dogs, cats, and ferrets.

“We must protect families and their pets from rabies, and these free clinics are a great way to do that,” said Poloncarz.

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Is Your Pet Ready for Warm Weather Fun?

Submitted by Joe Kirchmyer on Monday, April 30th, 4:10 pm

(Welcome to our pet column, courtesy of Pet Connection Programs Inc. of Marilla. We post a new article each week, so be sure to check back on a regular basis!)

Before heading outdoors, make sure your pet is ready for the season. Dr. Kemba Marshall, PetSmart veterinarian and pet care expert, knows it's important to pay extra attention to your pet when temperatures climb.

"Pet parents can make sure their pets stay comfortable, happy and healthy by preparing for the day ahead," says Dr. Marshall. She suggests these tips for pet parents looking to include their canine companions in warm-weather activities.

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