Recommended Books and Articles

It’s Me or the Dog, How To Have A Perfect Pet, by Victoria Stillwell

This clearly written book covers all the essential topics (including some that many books overlook) in a very accessible way. The author believes in leadership, but she also stresses that your job is to help your dog learn to live in a human world. Her philosophy: “Training is not about imposing types of behavior on your dog that are alien to his nature. It’s not about making your dog fearful or breaking his will. It’s giving him the tools to live in your world.” Her advice is practical and effective. It is a must read!
 
 
 
 

Other great books:

1. Canine Clinic, by Anna P. Clarke, D.V.M. (Health Care at Home)
2. Part of the Family: A Reality Book About Kindness and Happy Endings, by Bari Mears

Pet Care Tips

These tips will help you with your pet’s care. They are taken from various experts in their field, and contributed by Dee Kotinas.

Insect Bites

Bee stings, ant and spider bites are common. You should check for labored breathing and possible blanched or white gums as these are severe, though rare reactions. In these cases, take your pet to your veterinarian or to an emergency clinic if your veterinarian is closed.

Snake Bites

If your pet is bitten, keep the animal very calm and carefully carry the pet to the car. Movement can spread the toxin more quickly throughout your pet’s body. The sooner you treat the bite, the better the recovery. Snakes have been known to gather and sleep under a pile of brush and twigs. Stay on a safe trail when hiking about the desert and keep your dog on a leash.
 

Poisonous to Pets

Call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888 426-4435 if you think you pet has ingested something that may be poisonous. The list is long. One good place to copy the list is off the PACC911 website at www.pacc911.org.
 

Drowning

Be as cautious with pets as you are with children around pools. Learn CPR and teach your pet to find the steps in the pool. Mark the exit with a planter pot and insert a toy plastic windmill to catch your pet’s attention. One person gently holds the pet in the pool near the exit. The other stands at the exit and happily calls to the pet to come and exit the pool. Do this several times lengthening the distance in the pool each time. Leave the pot with the windmill to mark the pool exit for 30 days. Of course, a fence around your pool is advised.

Heat Stroke

The desert heat can be fatal! Dogs and cats with short snouts are extremely susceptible. Leave your pet at home or in an air conditioned car during travel when it is 85 degrees or warmer. Check for heavy panting, difficulty breathing, bloody diarrhea or vomit. Get your pet out of direct heat, place a wet cool towel over its body, and transport to a veterinarian immediately.