Memorial

A loving memorial to Cyrus who crossed the Rainbow Bridge Tuesday, June 25, 2024.

You will be missed so much my sweet boy!!

Unraveling the Canine Corn Chip Conundrum

Have you ever cuddled up with your furry friend and caught a whiff of their feet, only to be greeted by an unexpectedly familiar scent wafting from their paws  - the unmistakable aroma of corn chips or popcorn? Don't worry; your pooch likely didn't stumble into a bag of Fritos. This phenomenon, affectionately dubbed "Frito toes" by pet enthusiasts, has a perfectly natural explanation.

The culprit behind this intriguing aroma is often bacteria or yeast strains, specifically Pseudomonas and Proteus. While humans cool themselves through sweating all over their bodies, dogs primarily rely on panting and sweat glands located in their feet. Consequently, this creates a warm, moist environment, especially in dogs with furry feet, which can become a breeding ground for these microorganisms.

It's important to note that the presence of bacteria on the skin is normal and typically harmless for healthy dogs and humans. However, determining what constitutes a safe level of bacteria can be tricky. Here are some signs to watch out for that may indicate an issue:

1. Strong and Unusual Odor: If the scent emanating from your dog's paws is overpoweringly pungent and different from the usual Frito fragrance, it could signal a problem.
2. Excessive Licking or Chewing: Persistent paw licking or chewing may signify discomfort, irritation, or an underlying condition that needs veterinary attention.
3. Abnormalities in Paw Appearance: Look out for flakiness, crustiness, wounds, hair loss, lumps, bumps, redness, or swelling, which could suggest an underlying problem.

To maintain your pup's paw health and keep the Frito smell at a manageable level, consider incorporating these preventive measures:

1. Regular Cleaning: While frequent bathing is generally unnecessary for dogs, cleaning their feet with a pet-friendly shampoo, unscented baby wipes, or plain water after taking a muddy walk or encountering unpleasant substances will help keep them smelling fresh.
2. Trimming Fur: Regularly trimming the fur on your dog's feet and between their toes can promote faster drying and reduce the likelihood of bacterial overgrowth.
3. Protection from Hot Surfaces: Prevent your furry friend from walking on hot pavements or sharp surfaces, as these can cause discomfort, injury, or exacerbate existing paw issues.

While life with our canine companions is always an adventure, embracing the unique scent of "Frito feet" adds to the charm. Just remember to stay vigilant and seek veterinary advice if you notice any concerning changes in your dog's paw health or overall well-being.

Welcome July and Jazz!

Jazz is a beautiful kitty, whose gentle spirit lights up our days. Our July newsletter has paws-itively captivating stories about kitten baths, corn chip paws, and more.

Bee Prepared: A Guide to Handling Pet Stings

Our curious pets love to sniff and explore everything around them. But sometimes, their inquisitive natures can land them in a prickly situation - like getting stung by a bee or wasp!

If you suspect your furry friend has been stung, check areas like their nose, face, and paws first. Your pet may be pawing at or licking the affected spot. Look around for any bees, wasps, or spiders nearby, too. Knowing the culprit can help your vet provide the best treatment. And if it was a bee, you may even spot the stinger still lodged in your pet's skin. See instructions for scrapping it out at the end of this article.

Most of the time, a sting isn't an emergency. It will likely cause your pet some pain and irritation. However, monitoring them closely for at least 30-60 minutes is crucial, especially if the sting is on their face. You'll want to ensure any swelling doesn't obstruct their breathing.

To provide relief, bathe or wipe the sting area, then apply an ice pack to reduce swelling. Remember to take breaks from the ice every 10 minutes or so to prevent skin damage. Some pet owners recommend giving an antihistamine, but dosages can vary, so it's best to consult your vet first.

In rare cases, pets can have an allergic reaction to a sting. Watch for signs like difficulty breathing, swelling of the mouth/throat/eyes/ears, vomiting, weakness, drooling, pale gums, seizures, or collapsing. Call your vet immediately and head to the emergency clinic if you notice any of these symptoms. It's also wise to call your vet if your pet sustains multiple stings, even if they seem fine initially.

If your pet has had a previous reaction to a sting, ask your vet about keeping an epinephrine auto-injector (like an EpiPen) on hand. This can help stop a severe reaction until you get veterinary care. But be sure to call your vet after using it for further instructions.

Remember, even if your pet handled a previous sting well, their reaction could be different the next time. Stings are an unfortunate part of summer, but most only cause temporary discomfort. When in doubt, it's always best to consult your veterinarian.

We hope your furry pal stays sting-free this summer! But if they do get stung, now you know what to do. Here's to a happy, healthy season for all our pets!

Purr-fectly Clean: Making Kitten Baths a Breeze!

Cats are known for their meticulous grooming habits, but with their boundless energy and curiosity, kittens often find themselves in messier situations. While adult cats usually keep themselves clean, young kittens might need a helping hand. Starting bath routines early can make the experience more positive for you and your kitten, ensuring they stay clean and healthy, especially when the mama cat isn't around to lend a paw.

From messy eaters to litter box explorers, there are plenty of reasons why a kitten might need a little extra cleaning. While pet or baby wipes can handle minor messes, a full bath is sometimes necessary to restore your furball's pristine appearance.

So, here's some kitten-bathing wisdom:

1. Patience is Key: Expect some resistance from your kitten. Bath time might not be their favorite activity at first, but they might come around with patience and gentle encouragement.

2. Teamwork Makes the Dream Work: Enlist the help of an assistant. Having an extra set of hands can make the process much smoother. Gather all your supplies beforehand, including a washcloth to line the sink, shampoo, a towel, and maybe even a toy to distract your little one.

3. Create a Comfortable Environment: Warm up the bathroom before bathing your kitten, and use warm (but not hot) water. Adding a towel or rubber mat to the bottom of the sink can help your kitten feel more secure, as they tend to get anxious on slippery surfaces.

4. Gentle Techniques: You don't need to fully submerge your kitten - having their back legs in the water is enough. Use your hand to gently lather and clean your feline, especially for their first bath. Opt for a fragrance-free, mild kitten or baby shampoo to avoid irritating their sensitive skin.

5. Try "Scruffing": Mimic mama cat's comforting grip by gently holding the skin on the back of your kitten's neck. Many kittens find this technique very soothing, especially during bath time.

6. Keep Warm: Since young kittens struggle to regulate their body temperature, keeping them warm during and after their bath is crucial. Wrap them up in a cozy towel and cuddle with them until they're dry.

7. Skip the Hair Dryer: Avoid using a hair dryer, as it can quickly burn your kitten's delicate skin. Opt for air drying instead.

Now, you've successfully given your kitty a spa day! Enjoy their newfound cleanliness, at least until their next meal or litter box adventure rolls around. Remember, with a little patience and TLC, bath time can become a bonding experience for you and your furry friend.

Great Pet Links!

July is:

Have Fun With Your Dog on the 4th
4th of July Safety
Pet Fire Safety Tips
Dogs on the 4th of July
Cats Celebrating Independence Day