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News Flashes as they are reported!!!


As the cold weather of Winter approaches we concern ourselves with preparing our homes, automobiles, and gardens for the onslaught of chilly days and nights.
But we often overlook our furry 'Best Friends' and their special needs at this time of year. We can either put on a sweater or turn up the thermostat, but our pets rely on us to protect them from the elements.
Pets that usually stay outside should not be brought in to heated areas. It would be much the same as us wearing winter coats in the middle of summer. Instead, if there is a dog house or shelter provided, blankets or clean hay should be placed inside. If adequate shelter is not available, then bring the pet in to an enclosed area such as a garage. This will help shelter them from wind and rain.
If your cat normally stays outdoors you may find they often hide under vehicles or surrounding engines trying to find warmth. It is a good idea to either bang on the hood before starting your car, or take a moment to lift the hood. This will usually be enough to scare off any sleeping cat or wild animal. Special caution should be taken when draining or changing the antifreeze in your vehicle. The sweet taste is attractive to pets and wildlife, but usually has deadly results.
If you think your pet has ingested antifreeze, get them immediately to your veterinarian.


Thanksgiving Concerns

Even with all the Holiday preparations and thoughts of all we have to be thankful for buzzing in our heads, we need to take steps to ensure our pet has a safe and enjoyable time also. Rich food and desserts often cause intestinal disorders, sometimes with fatal results.
We are all aware of the damaging effects that chocolate can have on pets, but often overlook the harm caused by Turkey, Dressing, and all the trimmings. Rich foods should be excluded from our pets daily diet. And, turkey and ham bones can cause digestive and mouth problems due to splintering.
Finding a quiet space for your pet during the family gathering will ensure less trauma and will also prevent possible mishaps such as bites and behavior problems. Or you may want to speak with your Veterinarian about crate or kennel training.


CHRISTMAS Often the family pet seems to be included in holiday photos and on Christmas cards. Making for nostalgic glimpses of days gone by. But even with the warmth this scenario invokes, pets do not make good presents.
A new dog or cat requires time, training, and can prove to be quite expensive. This can create even more hardship at a time when we are concentrating on purchasing gifts for all those family members, friends and co-workers.
New puppies and kittens need vaccinations, health checks, not to mention food, chew toys, leashes, and a host of other supplies. After the holidays have passed, talk with your Veterinarian about choices in pets that fit your lifestyle.
If your family already includes pets there are certain dangers to be aware of concerning this festive time of year. Christmas trees make inviting places to hide or climb for your dog or cat. Make sure they are secured to prevent tipping over.
Tinsel can damage intestines or be poisonous if ingested. Fragile glass ornaments knocked off the tree by a playful cat can create shards of glass to do damage to feet, mouths, or stomachs. Holiday plants such as Poinsettias, Mistletoe, and Holly are poisonous to your pet if chewed or swallowed. And, again as with most holidays, frequent guests and visitors can cause stress and trauma to your pet which is used to its' own uninterrupted routine. Advanced planning will ensure a Happy Holiday for All.

***This message brought to you by: Animal League for Education, Response, & Tr aining, Inc. Responding to and caring for animals in Distress & Disasters.*** www.angelfire.com/mt/animalert Animalert@aol.com A.L.E.R.T., Inc. P.O. Box 481 Bagdad, FL 32530

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