celeryhawk30

[celeryhawk30]

The Ultimate Guide To Pets Plus Natural: Offering Home Delivery & In-Store Pickup!

Eight diseases that pets can pick up telegraph.co.uk

Adopt a Pet - Pima Countywebcms.pima.gov

Pet Health: MedlinePlus for Beginners

Having an animal may also help individuals achieve health goals, such as reduced blood pressure, or psychological objectives, such as reduced stress. There is evidence that having a family pet can help a person lead a longer, much healthier life. In a 1986 study of 92 individuals hospitalized for coronary ailments, within a year, 11 of the 29 patients without family pets had actually passed away, compared to just 3 of the 52 patients who had pets.

A research study by the National Institute of Health discovered that people who owned dogs were less most likely to die as an outcome of a heart attack than those who did not own one. There is some proof that pets may have a therapeutic result in dementia cases. Other research studies have revealed that for the senior, health might be a requirement for having a family pet, and not a result.

Read This

Dogs trained in the field of Animal-Assisted Treatment (AAT) can likewise benefit people with other specials needs. Individuals living in a long-lasting care center, such as a hospice or assisted living home, may experience health take advantage of pets. Animals help them to cope with the emotional problems related to their disease. They likewise use physical contact with another living creature, something that is often missing out on in an older's life.

Proper pets go through a screening process and, if it is a canine, additional training programs to end up being a treatment pet dog. There are 3 types of treatment dogs: center therapy pets, animal-assisted treatment canines, and healing visitation dogs. The most common treatment dogs are therapeutic visitation canines. These dogs are home family pets whose handlers take time to check out health centers, nursing houses, detention centers, and rehab facilities.

The Basic Principles Of Home - pets-lifeline

In addition to supplying health advantages for their owners, family pets also affect the social lives of their owners and their connection to their neighborhood. There is some proof that animals can assist in social interaction. Assistant Teacher of Sociology at the University of Colorado at Stone, Leslie Irvine has actually focused her attention on family pets of the homeless population.

Pet ownership prompts them to act properly, with numerous making an intentional option not to drink or utilize drugs, and to avoid contact with substance abusers or those associated with any criminal activity for worry of being separated from their animal. Furthermore, numerous refuse to house in shelters if their family pet is not enabled to remain with them.

#Pets

[celeryhawk30]

Some Known Details About Pets on Amtrak

The Pets - Animal Planet Diaries

Keep Checking Back Here

Animal kept for companionship instead of energy An animal, or buddy animal, is an animal kept primarily for an individual's company or entertainment rather than as a working animal, livestock or a laboratory animal. Popular pets are frequently considered to have attractive appearances, intelligence and relatable characters, but some family pets may be taken in on an selfless basis (such as a stray animal) and accepted by the owner no matter these qualities.

Other animals commonly kept include: rabbits; ferrets; pigs; rodents, such as gerbils, hamsters, chinchillas, rats, mice, and guinea pigs; bird family pets, such as parrots, passerines and fowls; reptile animals, such as turtles, alligators, crocodiles, lizards, and snakes; water animals, such as fish, freshwater and saltwater snails, amphibians like frogs and salamanders; and arthropod pets, such as tarantulas and hermit crabs.

The Best Guide To Purina: Nutritious Dog and Cat Food for Your Pet

Pets offer their owners (or "guardians") both physical and psychological advantages. Strolling a pet dog can supply both the human and the dog with exercise, fresh air and social interaction. Animals can provide companionship to people who are living alone or senior grownups who do not have appropriate social interaction with other individuals.

What's Your Pet Saying? These Machines nytimes.com

Animal therapy utilizes qualified animals and handlers to accomplish particular physical, social, cognitive or psychological goals with patients. People most commonly get animals for companionship, to safeguard a home or residential or commercial property or because of the viewed appeal or beauty of the animals. A 1994 Canadian study found that the most typical reasons for not owning a pet were absence of ability to care for the family pet when traveling (34.

The Only Guide for The Secret Life of Pets (2016) - IMDb

6%) and lack of ideal housing (28. 3%), with dislike of pets being less common (19. 6%). Some scholars, ethicists and animal rights organizations have raised issues over keeping animals because of the absence of autonomy and the objectification of non-human animals. In China, costs on domestic animals has actually grown from an estimated $3.

Veterinary Financing - CareCreditcarecredit.com

Adopt a Pet - Pima Countywebcms.pima.gov

The Chinese people own 51 million dogs and 41 million cats, with animal owners typically preferring to source pet food internationally. There are an overall of 755 million family pets, increased from 389 million in 2013. According to a survey promoted by Italian household associations in 2009, it is estimated that there are roughly 45 million animals in Italy.

#Pets

[celeryhawk30]

Get This Report about The Secret Life of Pets (2016) - IMDb

The Only Guide for Subaru Loves Pets, Pets Love Us - Subaru

Animal kept for friendship instead of energy An animal, or buddy animal, is an animal kept mostly for an individual's company or entertainment rather than as a working animal, livestock or a lab animal. Popular pets are frequently thought about to have appealing looks, intelligence and relatable personalities, however some animals might be taken in on an selfless basis (such as a stray animal) and accepted by the owner no matter these qualities.

Coronavirus and pets: Everything you latimes.com

Other animals commonly kept include: bunnies; ferrets; pigs; rodents, such as gerbils, hamsters, chinchillas, rats, mice, and guinea pigs; avian pets, such as parrots, passerines and fowls; reptile family pets, such as turtles, alligators, crocodiles, lizards, and snakes; marine pets, such as fish, freshwater and saltwater snails, amphibians like frogs and salamanders; and arthropod pets, such as tarantulas and hermit crabs.

How to keep your pets safe around humanesociety.org

Fascination About PAWS - Pets Advancing Wellness and Success : El Paso

Family pets provide their owners (or "guardians") both physical and psychological benefits. Walking a pet dog can offer both the human and the pet dog with workout, fresh air and social interaction. Animals can provide companionship to individuals who are living alone or senior grownups who do not have appropriate social interaction with other individuals.

Animal treatment uses trained animals and handlers to accomplish specific physical, social, cognitive or emotional goals with patients. People most commonly get pets for companionship, to safeguard a home or residential or commercial property or because of the perceived charm or beauty of the animals. A 1994 Canadian study discovered that the most typical factors for not owning an animal were lack of capability to take care of the pet when traveling (34.

PetSmart: Pet Supplies, Accessories and Products Online Fundamentals Explained Did you see this?

6%) and absence of appropriate real estate (28. 3%), with dislike of animals being less typical (19. 6%). Some scholars, ethicists and animal rights companies have actually raised concerns over keeping pets because of the lack of autonomy and the objectification of non-human animals. In China, costs on domestic animals has grown from an approximated $3.

The Chinese individuals own 51 million canines and 41 million felines, with pet owners typically choosing to source family pet food internationally. There are a total of 755 million animals, increased from 389 million in 2013. According to a study promoted by Italian family associations in 2009, it is approximated that there are approximately 45 million animals in Italy.

#Pets

[celeryhawk30]

The Single Strategy To Use For More than 60 pets arrive at the Oregon Humane - KATU

Why robotic pets may be the next big nbcnews.com

Best Pet Supplies and Tips for Kittens wired.com

Not known Details About pets - Mashable

Jas Leverette is a canine trainer out of Oakland, California, who utilizes his distinct training program to assist pet dogs of any type with any kind of behavioral problem.

Animal kept for companionship rather than energy An animal, or companion animal, is an animal kept mainly for an individual's company or home entertainment instead of as a working animal, livestock or a laboratory animal. Popular family pets are often thought about to have attractive looks, intelligence and relatable personalities, however some pets may be taken in on an selfless basis (such as a roaming animal) and accepted by the owner despite these characteristics.

Other animals frequently kept include: rabbits; ferrets; pigs; rodents, such as gerbils, hamsters, chinchillas, rats, mice, and guinea pigs; bird family pets, such as parrots, passerines and fowls; reptile family pets, such as turtles, alligators, crocodiles, lizards, and snakes; aquatic family pets, such as fish, freshwater and saltwater snails, amphibians like frogs and salamanders; and arthropod pets, such as tarantulas and hermit crabs.

About Pets Pets Pets - Califon

Animals provide their owners (or "guardians") both physical and emotional advantages. Walking a pet can offer both the human and the pet dog with workout, fresh air and social interaction. Family pets can provide companionship to individuals who are living alone or elderly grownups who do not have appropriate social interaction with other individuals.

Pet therapy makes use of experienced animals and handlers to achieve specific physical, social, cognitive or psychological objectives with patients. Individuals most frequently get family pets for friendship, to safeguard a house or residential or commercial property or due to the fact that of the viewed appeal or appearance of the animals. A 1994 Canadian research study found that the most common reasons for not owning a family pet were lack of ability to care for the family pet when taking a trip (34.

6%) and absence of appropriate real estate (28. 3%), with dislike of family pets being less typical (19. 6%). Some scholars, ethicists and animal rights organizations have raised concerns over keeping family pets because of the lack of autonomy and the objectification of non-human animals. In China, costs on domestic animals has actually grown from an estimated $3.

Indicators on Pet Supplies - Amazon.com You Need To Know

Related Source Here

The Chinese individuals own 51 million canines and 41 million cats, with pet owners typically choosing to source family pet food worldwide. There are an overall of 755 million animals, increased from 389 million in 2013. According to a survey promoted by Italian family associations in 2009, it is approximated that there are around 45 million animals in Italy.

#Pets

[celeryhawk30]

The Single Strategy To Use For PETS Recordings's stream - SoundCloud

Moving With Pets: Tips to Make the aaamoversinc.com

The 20-Second Trick For The Humane Society, Are you having trouble affording your pet?

6%) and absence of appropriate housing (28. 3%), with dislike of family pets being less typical (19. 6%). Some scholars, ethicists and animal rights companies have raised concerns over keeping family pets since of the absence of autonomy and the objectification of non-human animals. In China, spending on domestic animals has grown from an estimated $3.

The Chinese people own 51 million dogs and 41 million felines, with pet owners frequently choosing to source animal food globally. There are an overall of 755 million animals, increased from 389 million in 2013. According to a survey promoted by Italian household associations in 2009, it is approximated that there are around 45 million family pets in Italy.

Adopt a Pet - Pima Countywebcms.pima.gov

5 million cats, 16 million fish, 12 million birds, and 10 million snakes. A 2007 study by the University of Bristol discovered that 26% of UK households owned felines and 31% owned pet dogs, estimating total domestic populations of roughly 10. 3 million felines and 10. 5 million pet dogs in 2006.

How to keep your pets safe around humanesociety.org

Not known Incorrect Statements About Home - pets-lifeline

More In-Depth

2% of families with a cat had at least someone educated to degree level, compared to 38. 4% of homes with dogs. Sixty-eight percent of U.S. households, or about 85 million families, own a family pet, according to the 2017-2018 National Pet Owners Survey performed by the American Family Pet Products Association (APPA).

homes in 1988, the first year the study was conducted. There are approximately 86. 4 million pet cats and roughly 78. 2 million family pet canines in the United States, and a United States 20072008 study showed that dog-owning families surpassed those owning cats, however that the overall variety of pet felines was higher than that of canines.

In 2013, family pets surpassed kids 4 to one in the United States. Most popular animals in the U.S (millions) Animal Global population U.S. population U.S. populated households U.S. average per inhabited home Cat 202 93. 6 38. 2 2. 45 Dog 171 77. 5 45. 6 1. 70 Fish N/A 171.

Pet Supplies – Walmart.com - Walmart.com - Truths

3 12. 86 Small mammals N/A 15. 9 5. 3 3. 00 Birds N/A 15. 0 6. 0 2. 50 Reptiles & amphibians N/A 13. 6 4. 7 2. 89 Horse N/A 13. 3 3. 9 3. 41 Keeping animals as pets may be harmful to their health if certain requirements are not met.

#Pets

[celeryhawk30]

The Ultimate Guide To PetSmart: Pet Supplies, Accessories and Products Online

See This Report on Travelling with pets in the cabin, hold or cargo - KLM.com

5 million cats, 16 million fish, 12 million birds, and 10 million snakes. A 2007 study by the University of Bristol found that 26% of UK families owned felines and 31% owned pets, estimating overall domestic populations of roughly 10. 3 million felines and 10. 5 million canines in 2006.

Lonely Beijing citizens are spending cnn.com

2% of families with a cat had at least a single person informed to degree level, compared to 38. 4% of houses with canines. Sixty-eight percent of U.S. homes, or about 85 million families, own a pet, according to the 2017-2018 National Pet Owners Study conducted by the American Animal Products Association (APPA).

The Definitive Guide to People in lockdown told not to make impulsive pet decision Additional Info

households in 1988, the first year the study was performed. There are around 86. 4 million pet cats and approximately 78. 2 million pet dogs in the United States, and a United States 20072008 survey revealed that dog-owning families outnumbered those owning felines, however that the total variety of family pet cats was higher than that of dogs.

In 2013, family pets outnumbered children 4 to one in the United States. Most popular animals in the U.S (millions) Animal Global population U.S. population U.S. occupied families U.S. typical per inhabited household Feline 202 93. 6 38. 2 2. 45 Canine 171 77. 5 45. 6 1. 70 Fish N/A 171.

The Ultimate Guide To Pets - LittleThings.com

3 12. 86 Little mammals N/A 15. 9 5. 3 3. 00 Birds N/A 15. 0 6. 0 2. 50 Reptiles & amphibians N/A 13. 6 4. 7 2. 89 Equine N/A 13. 3 3. 9 3. 41 Keeping animals as pets may be detrimental to their health if specific requirements are not satisfied.

Owning a Pet Can Change Your Life heart.org

The usage of chocolate or grapes by dogs, for instance, may show deadly. Certain species of houseplants can also show poisonous if consumed by pets. Examples include philodendrons and Easter lilies (which can cause severe kidney damage to cats) and poinsettias, begonia, and aloe vera (which are mildly harmful to pet dogs).

#Pets

[celeryhawk30]

Kitten Rescue: Dropped by Hawk & Treed for Three Days

Fluffy waits in a tree for help after being dropped there by a hawk. (Photo: Erie Valley Fire & Rescue)

Beyond what lurks in the neighborhood, like cars, strays, and those who don’t care for cats, is one consideration is often overlooked.  Nature itself. A very lucky kitten got much to close later in the form of a hawk and pine tree.

Fluffy on the dinner menu

A hawk spied the kitten and decided it would make for a tasty morsel. Nabbing Fluffy, it took off with great intent. However, due to the kitten being too heavy or struggling too much, the hawk released her. Fortunately for Fluffy, she landed in a pine tree.  Unfortunately, it was extremely high up and the kitten was stuck where she had fallen.

Up a tree for three days

At such a height, in particular for a young kitten, any cat would be challenged to make their way down.  And with the pine tree swaying, it further complicated matters.  Erie Valley Fire & Rescue posted on their Facebook page “Typically, cats will find their way down, but after three days it was time to intervene.” And intervene, they did.

Working with a tree company, the rescue squad was able to extract the frightened kitten from her none-too-pleasant perch. “She was going to die up there and she was all alone,” Ellen Albert, Fluffy’s much-relieved owner told WJW/Fox8  adding, “I’m just truly amazed that she made it that long and these guys are here to help.”

Hawks in waiting

Fire Chief Rick said multiple hawks were seen waiting in the vicinity, clearly with their focus on Fluffy.  Seems she was tucked into the branches far enough down she could not be reached.  Though not comfortable for the kitten, it did allow for her to be successfully rescued and not made part of a meal.

“We’re happy to report after the rescue that the Fluffy is uninjured and enjoying some TLC from her owners,” said a fire department post.

A good reminder to keep kitty inside

This is a good reason to consider keeping your cat or kitten inside.  While we may think we know our surroundings, there may be situations of which we are not aware. Regardless of personal beliefs, kitty inside or out, remember to have pets microchipped.  With our furry family members, it is always best to think safety first.

Source: https://www.lifewithcats.tv/2018/10/29/kitten-rescue-dropped-by-hawk/

#read more #see more #check it out #interesting #learn more

[celeryhawk30]

Colorado Bans Animal Abusers From Owning Pets

Newly signed legislation in Colorado bans convicted animal abusers in the state from owning any pets for up to five years.

Colorado Governor Jared Polis signed  House Bill 19-1092, more commonly known as Animal Ban For Cruelty To Animals Conviction last week. Under the new law, a court can enter an “order prohibiting a person convicted of felony animal cruelty from owning a pet animal for a period of 3 to 5 years.”

The bill also states that a juvenile convicted of animal cruelty can be “adjudicated a delinquent for an animal cruelty crime from owning a pet animal.”

The new legislation was part of a larger program dubbed the People for Animal Welfare (PAW) Committee which Polis said creates “an opportunity to look at what Colorado can do to protect our animals from cruelty and ensure their wellbeing.”

The Governor also signed House Bill 19-1220, which allows a court facility dog to accompany witnesses testifying during criminal proceedings if certain conditions are met. It’s been proven that dogs help reduce the anxiety of traumatized victims, especially children, so they can overcome the stress of telling their stories in a deposition room or courtroom.

The PAWS Committee hopes to give Colorado’s animals a voice and to help the state become a national leader in animal protection and welfare.

Source: https://www.dogingtonpost.com/colorado-bans-animal-abusers-from-owning-pets/

#read more #see more #check it out #interesting #learn more

[celeryhawk30]

Preparations Under Way for Kitten Bowl VI

What is better than a kitten? MORE kittens which is perhaps no better demonstrated that with Hallmark’s annual Kitten Bowl and practice has begun for the 2019 event. Aligned with the NFL’s Super Bowl, Kitten Bowl gives cat fans an alternative to game day television that is fraught with cuteness.

Kitten Bowl debuted on the Hallmark Channel  February 2, 2014.  Partnering with New York’s North Shore Animal League and Last Hope Animal Rescue, dovetailing in the success of Animal Planet’s Puppy Bowl, the event was set up to counter Super Bowl XLVIII between the Denver Broncos and Seattle Seahawks. Viewership for the program proved wildly popular and has grown each year.

The kittens for this year’s main event are starting their workouts with pre-season practice in full force. Like any pawthlete, these little gridders are taking it to heart. While the program provides lots of giggles and plenty of “awwwwwws” for those watching, it is the reason behind the Kitten Bowl that is the key driver. At the heart of the playbook, as with any gameplay, is the desire to win. The ultimate goal for Kitten Bowl is to not only highlight adorable kittens, but speak to the viewership to consider adopting from their local animal shelter or rescue with the philosophy of ADOPT DON’T SHOP as espoused in their Adoption Ever After program.

Through these collective efforts, not only is awareness raised to the plight of animals in shelters, but it will, hopefully, give those who tune in the opportunity to consider when next they are looking for a pet to think, first, about their local organizations. For those who already have animals in the household, perhaps a gentle reminder, too, to make sure their pets are spayed and neutered. It doesn’t often happen in today’s competitive sports environment, but in this case, the final score can be a win-win for one and all.

Can’t get enough Kitten Bowl? Wish it happened every day? Need a little office breather? Then subscribe to Hallmark’s Kitten Bowl Channel! You will surely get your daily fill of fluff. And we mean that in the best possible way.

Tags: Adopt don't Shop, cat news, cat video, cute cat video, cute kitten video, denver broncos, football, Hallmark Channel, Kitten Bowl, Kitten Bowl video, kitten news, kitten video, Last Hope Animal Rescue, North Shore Animal League, seattle seahawks, Super Bowl XLVIII

Source: https://www.lifewithcats.tv/2018/08/23/preparations-under-way-for-kitten-bowl-vi/

#read more #see more #check it out #interesting #learn more

[celeryhawk30]

Maratoneta trova cagnolino abbandonato durante una gara e lo porta in braccio per 29 chilometri

Di Maria Vasta domenica 3 febbraio 2019

Una maratoneta trova un cagnolino durante la gara, e lo porta con sé per 29 chilometri, per poi adottarlo.

Una maratoneta dal cuore d’oro ha recentemente trovato un cagnolino per strada, ed ha deciso di adottarlo. A sorprendere il mondo è il fatto che la donna, la quarantatreenne Khemjira Klongsanun, stava partecipando alla maratona di Ratchaburi, in Thailandia, quando ha notato il cucciolotto da solo, impaurito e triste, sul ciglio della strada.

Senza pensarci due volte, la donna lo ha preso in braccio, lo ha stretto a sé ed ha ricominciato la sua maratona, portando il nuovo amico per circa 29 chilometri.

Appena l’ho visto ho deciso di prenderlo in braccio e di portalo con me fino al traguardo. Accanto all’animale non c’era nessuno, e lì vicino non c’erano neppure delle abitazioni. Purtroppo non sono riuscita a scoprire nulla sul suo passato, ma credo che incontrarlo sia stato un segno del destino

ha fatto sapere la donna, la cui impresa è stata filmata da alcune persone presenti, e poi pubblicata su internet, dove il suo gesto è stato accolto con grande stima dal popolo del web.

Alla fine della corsa, la donna – che è proprietaria di un negozio in Thailandia – ha deciso di adottare il suo nuovo amico a quattro zampe, e di chiamarlo Chombueng, come il nome della maratona che li ha fatti incontrare. Adesso Chombueng (che potete vedere nel video durante la sua prima e fortunatissima maratona) sta bene, è felice insieme alla sua nuova mamma e si è già ambientato nella nuova casa.

Non possiamo che essere felici per questa bella famigliola!

La commovente reazione del cane salvato dalla strada

Ecco la tenerissima e commovente reazione di un cagnolino abbandonato che trova una donna dal cuore d'oro

via | La Stampa Foto da iStock

Source: http://www.petsblog.it/post/161685/maratoneta-trova-cagnolino-abbandonato-durante-una-gara-e-lo-porta-in-braccio-per-29-chilometri

#read more #see more #check it out #interesting #learn more

[celeryhawk30]

3-3-19 Weekly Roundup

Jump to comments

Weekly Instagram/Facebook/Tumblr Roundup.

I have determined that Almanzo is da BAYbee. He’s probably not the only BAYbee from this litter, but he’s certainly the most vocal.

“Lady, what the heck is this bright light coming through the window? It is delightful!” (Charles & Caroline)

Good night, innernets.

YouTube link Breakfast is served!

Willie Bright Eyes.

Good night, innernets.

It’s Toesday, so here you go!

The way Laura is sitting is cracking me UP.

YouTube link Caroline loves this toy! (It’s a Frolicat ZIP, and she adores it. Charles doesn’t get it, but he likes to watch her play.)

Good night, innernets. (Willie)

Such a rough life.

Charles would never bunny-kick the mother of his kittens in the butt, and is offended by the accusation.

YouTube link The Half Pints are learning to walk.

Albert’s eyes are now all the way open, which means that 10 out of 10 eyeballs are present and accounted for!

Good night, innernets. (Laura)

He’s a good-lookin’ guy, and he knows it.

Charles talking to the kittens on February 12th.

YouTube link Mama’s little hissers.

Good night, innernets. (Mary)

Cuties.

Yep. Sometimes Charles does the ear-cleaning. (Charles and Caroline)

Good night, innernets.

Oh, those stripes. (Willie)

Keeping a close eye on the neighborhood. #kravitzing (Charles & Caroline)

Oh, these kittens and their Ma.

That smile on Charles’s face!

Good night, innernets.

YouTube link The week in Love & Hisses kittens.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Previously 2018: No entry. 2017: Waiting for the possums to show up and entertain them. 2016: ::ROWRRRR:: 2015: He’s hoping for a chicken baby food jackpot! 2014: Hey. I didn’t know that Furminator made a toothbrush! (I’m sure they didn’t know, either.) 2013: No entry. 2012: Meet Emmy’s babies. 2011: Like I say to Fred, every single day, how could you possibly see that face and not think he’s the MOST gorgeous boy in all the land? 2010: No entry. 2009: No entry. 2008: No entry. 2007: No entry. 2006: No entry. 2005: No entry.

Comments

Source: https://www.love-and-hisses.com/3-3-19/

#read more #see more #check it out #interesting #learn more

[celeryhawk30]

spring session peeks ~ Windsor, Ontario pet photographer | Waterloo, Ontario dog photographer

As always, it’s been a delightfully busy spring season here at scruffy dog!  So busy, in fact, that I am grossly behind in blogging.  Of course, if you’re looking for the latest images and to keep up with the current goings-on here in scruffyville, your best bet is to follow us over on facebook!

In the meantime, here are just a few of the faces who booked a scruffy session to capture one-of-a-kind, lifelong memories of their beloved 4-leggers!

Minnie showed up for the spring/summer segment of her Seasons Session, and this girl totally rocked it.

The utterly adorable Albert came from Amherstburg/Windsor for his Big Picture Session with me, and I can’t wait to start working on his custom-designed, one-of-a-kind, hand-made, signature album, along with his other artwork.

This little scruffy dude crashed one of our spring sessions, and I couldn’t resist catching one quick shot.

And then there are these three … Maggie, Oscar and new sister Annie.  Even though Maggie and Oscar are mostly indoor cats, guardian Mary really wanted a photo of her two cats and new dog, Annie, together.  So off we went!  Of course, as someone who has also taken my cat to different locations for shoots, I made sure that Maggie and Oscar’s harnesses were on super tight!

And for those questioning whether the above image might be a composite of these lovelies, nope!  Here is the straight-out-of-camera image.  Of course, what you don’t see here is the high level of client-coaching, cat-wrangling and preliminary set up that went on to achieve this calm.  At the same time, I’m giving some credit to Annie who – having stood at the sidelines for 15-20 minutes already, watching the cat-wrangling and cat photos going on – seemed to understand what we were after even before we brought her onto the “set”.  Note Annie’s craftily placed paw on Oscar’s … almost as though she is pinning him in place so that we can get our shot, put the cats away once and for all, and focus on Annie at last! Little Maggie smiling…

Oscar in all of his cross-eyed glory…  Can you believe this gorgeous boy was adopted from the KW Humane Society and nobody seemed to want him?

Annie: “I haz crown.”

Stay tuned for more little peeks from our amazing spring!!  And if you’re considering a fall session, please don’t ‘consider’ too long; spots are filling up!

Source: http://scruffydogphotography.com/index.php/2017/07/28/spring-session-peeks-windsor-ontario-pet-photographer-waterloo-ontario-dog-photographer/

#read more #see more #check it out #interesting #learn more

[celeryhawk30]

Trupanion relationships with veterinarians under scrutiny

Trupanion

VIN News Service photo

Founded in Vancouver, Canada, in 2000, Trupanion is now based in Seattle.

Washington state regulators are looking into allegations that the pet insurance company Trupanion is inappropriately rewarding veterinary clinics for referring pet owners to the company, facilitating enrollments, and otherwise promoting the company to prospective customers.

Documents obtained by the VIN News Service through a public records request show that the state Office of the Insurance Commissioner opened an investigation on April 27 into American Pet Insurance Company (APIC), an underwriter owned by Trupanion, which has headquarters in Seattle and sells insurance in all 50 states and Canada.

A case description states: "Entity is offering a variety of inducements, to include cash incentives and prizes in excess of $100 to veterinarians, veterinary hospitals and animal organizations as an inducement to refer consumers to purchase insurance."

The company's activities potentially violate three provisions in the law, according to the documents: A prohibition on gifts valued in excess of $100 for the referral of insurance business; a prohibition on inducements involving, among other things, prizes valued at more than $100 in any consecutive 12-month period; and involvement of individuals selling, soliciting or negotiating insurance without a license to do so.

In 2016, APIC was fined $150,000 by the Washington state insurance commissioner for numerous violations, including that "none of the employees who sold insurance to Washington consumers were licensed insurance producers," according to a news release. The violation pertained to the company's call-center staff. APIC is subject to an additional $100,000 fine if it commits the same violations within two years.

In telephone interviews this week, Trupanion CEO Darryl Rawlings expressed confidence that the current investigation will conclude that the company has done nothing wrong.

"There's no problem with having a rewards program," he said.

However, the company recently notified participating hospitals that it would be ending its current rewards program. In a press release posted today, Trupanion said the decision was unrelated to the regulatory inquiry. Rather, the program, which was meant "to enhance behaviors within hospitals in support of the Trupanion member claims experience ... was not having the desired results," it said.

Trupanion texts draw complaints

In a letter dated July 3 responding to questions from an insurance investigator, Trupanion explained that under the program, hospitals could earn points by, for example, setting up direct deposit to receive claims payments; submitting paid claims through a computer program called Trupanion Express; and fulfilling an initial records request for a new pet to enable expedited processing of a claim when the pet made subsequent visits to the hospital.

Trupanion also identified the veterinary practices in Washington that participated in the rewards program. A list submitted to the state on July 10 shows 53 participants. About half earned no points between November 2016, when the program began, and May 2018. Seven practices logged the most activity, earning points in seven or more months of the 19 month-period shown. The most active hospital earned 7,780 points in 15 months.

Materials in the investigation file show rewards ranging from $50 gift cards for iTunes, Home Depot, IHOP, Dunkin' Donuts and the like; to vacations in destinations such as Napa, Miami, New York City and Jackson Hole. The gift cards required 650 points and the trips required upwards of 36,000 points, according to information in the file.

Trupanion's press release about the program's end states that the total value of point redemptions nationwide averaged less than $50,000 per year.

The rewards were predicated on the use of the Trupanion Express software. Clinics that integrate the software in their practice-management computer systems may submit claims on pet owners' behalf, and can arrange to receive payments directly from Trupanion, saving their clients the need to pay upfront and wait for reimbursement.

Clinics also may offer prospective customers a 30-day free trial. Using Trupanion Express, veterinary staff click a button that prompts Trupanion to send an email or text to the interested pet owner to begin the sign-up process.

Rawlings declined to say how many veterinary hospitals use Trupanion Express software. He said only a subset of those hospitals participated in the "partner program" that netted points. Being a Trupanion partner, he said, "means we give more training to the hospital ... and the training we're doing is about providing better service for clients. ... The whole goal is, we want to be paying [claims to] the hospital directly in under five minutes, 24 hours a day, seven days a week."

'Skirting a boundary unknowingly'

Several owners of veterinary practices in Washington identified by Trupanion as eligible to earn points for rewards said they had little to no knowledge of the program.

"I don't consider us [to be] working with insurance companies or for them," Dr. Donald Gerard, owner of Bellevue Animal Hospital in Bellevue, said. Nor does the hospital refer pet owners to Trupanion preferentially, he said: "We never had any sort of meeting to say, 'Let's refer to Trupanion because there's rewards.' "

Gerard also said he didn't know that insurers were prohibited from giving substantive rewards. "Pretty much all of our veterinary suppliers have some sort of rewards program. I don't think anybody would have thought differently of this," he said. Pondering further, he added, "But because it's insurance, they have to live by their own rules."

Gerard's practice manager, Jennifer Garcia, who handles the hospital's business matters, said the practice joined the rewards program two or three months ago at the invitation of a Trupanion sales representative. "The rep was like, 'You guys don't belong to the rewards program. Do you want to?' I said, "Do we have to do anything?' She said no, so I signed up," Garcia recounted.

"To be quite honest, I haven't paid attention to it," she added. "I have no idea [how points are earned]." Information provided by Trupanion to state regulators shows Bellevue Animal Hospital had accumulated zero points as of May.

The hospital apparently has earned points since then. "I get an email from them once a month that says you have points to use," Garcia said. Her understanding was that "when I amass enough points, there's a rewards shopping site. I can take my points and buy stuff with it."

Of six practice owners or managers reached by VIN News, none was aware of the state investigation. Many also said they were unfamiliar with the rules against unlicensed solicitation of insurance and unclear on what exactly constitutes solicitation.

The Lower Columbia Veterinary Clinic in Longview sports a Trupanion logo on its website that, when clicked, links to Trupanion's website. The clinic reportedly earned 786 points over the course of 10 months. Clinic owner Dr. Tammy Lynn White told VIN News, "We do make clients aware that insurance is available, and we have literature on Trupanion. I don't know if that's considered selling it or not."

She mused, "It sounds like ... we should make clients aware of pet insurance but not recommend any particular pet insurance. I had no idea that that was illegal, or that we were selling insurance."

In Seattle, Dr. Robin Riedinger, owner of Hawthorne Hills Veterinary Hospital, which reportedly earned 211 points in two months, said her practice provides information to pet owners about a variety of insurers, not only Trupanion.

"We have a little packet that has the company brochures from five or six different companies, and then we have a thing that we wrote up, essentials of pet insurance. ... We've given that stuff to clients and said, 'Go do your due diligence,' " Riedinger said.

She said her practice did not try to earn points from Trupanion, nor has it redeemed any.

Likewise, Dr. Polly Martin, owner of Salmon Creek Veterinary Clinic in Vancouver, which reportedly earned 506 points over 15 months, said her clinic has claimed no rewards. And while she advocates pet insurance because she believes it helps pet owners better afford comprehensive veterinary care, Martin said she wishes that Trupanion had explained the rules against unlicensed solicitation "so that we weren't skirting a boundary unknowingly."

She said, "Trupanion is the one that's instigating the relationship, so it's incumbent upon them to communicate to the clinics that they're not allowed to sell insurance on their behalf."

Instead, company representatives simply instructed clinic staff not to try to answer client questions about price or other particulars, she said. "Just have them call us," they would say. Martin recalled, "They said that a lot."

Rawlings

VIN News Service photo

Darryl Rawlings is CEO of Trupanion.

Rawlings provided to VIN News today a copy of a new Trupanion document titled "What the veterinary profession should know regarding insurance licensing requirements" that he said is being distributed to the company's hospital partners. Among other things, the document addresses what constitutes selling, soliciting and negotiating for insurance.

Rawlings acknowledged that some company representatives previously may not have conveyed that information clearly to veterinarians and their staffs. "It's ... quite frankly, a boring, technical subject, so putting something in writing will hopefully help," he said.

Company draws drumbeat of negative attention

Documents from the Washington insurance office inquiry were first made public on Oct. 19 by an anonymous investor posting in an online forum called Seeking Alpha. Writing under the handle The Capitolist, the investor has since Aug. 16 posted eight times about Trupanion, maintaining that the publicly traded company is a poor investment and elaborating on why. The writer is shorting Trupanion, meaning that he is betting against the company's success and will make money if Trupanion stock loses value.

In other instances of negative attention, a subscription-based news service called The Capitol Forum that covers business, investment, regulatory and consumer issues has published at least six articles about Trupanion since December. A piece on March 21 focused on the relationship between Trupanion and veterinary practices. It stated that Trupanion's "system of non-cash rewards for veterinary practices ... may run afoul of state insurance laws." An article on April 3, sounding the same theme, focused on Trupanion's status as a "preferred" pet insurance vendor of VCA Animal Hospitals, which has more than 800 hospitals in the U.S. and Canada.

Barron's, a publisher of financial and investment news, weighed in with an article on Sept. 23 headlined, "Shares of Pet Insurer Trupanion are Overvalued." That was followed on Oct. 20 with "Trupanion Stock Sinks After Report of State Probe," referencing The Capitolist's Oct. 19 post.

On Oct. 20, Trupanion announced that it had just insured its 500,000th pet, and on Oct. 22, Barron's reported, "Trupanion Stock Rebounds After It Rebuts Critics," citing a company statement addressing the allegations.

The statement reads in part, "[W]e do not believe veterinarians or Trupanion Territory Partners need to be licensed, as they are not being asked to sell or solicit Trupanion insurance policies." Territory Partners serve as company liaisons to veterinarians.

The statement also says the company has been in communication over the years with insurance regulators. "We believe they understand our business well, including how we interact with veterinarians," and "we have no expectation that we will need to change our business practices."

Trupanion says that it believes the recent inquiries from regulators "were driven by capital market participants or competitors." Rawlings told VIN News that Trupanion is a target of some in the investment world "because the value of our stock climbed really high in a short period of time."

Founded in Vancouver, Canada, in 2000, Trupanion expanded to the United States and moved to Seattle in 2008. The company made an initial public offering on NASDAQ in July 2014 at $10 per share. Between April 2017 and July 2018, its share values tripled, reaching a peak of $45.96 on July 20. The stock closed at $23.33 today.

VIN News Service commentaries are opinion pieces presenting insights, personal experiences and/or perspectives on topical issues by members of the veterinary community. To submit a commentary for consideration, email [email protected].

Source: http://news.vin.com/vinnews.aspx?articleId=50632

#read more #see more #check it out #interesting #learn more

[celeryhawk30]

Pet of the Week: Meet Sugar - Mail Tribune

AGE: Magnificent 15-year-old Sugar, our senior resident, has the perfect name — she is both sweet and irresistible!

PERSONALITY: This gentle, buff-colored shorthair with lovely eyes is active and playful, and seems so much younger than her 15 years. She is a curious, easy-going girl who loves scritches and sweet talk. And, she has the cutest habit of eating with her paws!

HIGHLIGHTS: Sugar is ready for retirement in a peaceful, indoor-only home where she can relax and enjoy her twilight years in your lap.

AVAILABLE: At the Jackson County Animal Shelter, 5595 S Pacific Hwy, Phoenix. Open 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, and noon to 4 p.m. weekends.

COST: Sugar’s adoption fee is only $20 and includes a free wellness visit at a local veterinarian office. Sugar is spayed.

ONLINE: View adoptable pets via Friends of the Animal Shelter: www.facebook.com/fotas, www.fotas.org or www.petfinder.com

LOST & FOUND: www.petharbor.com or call 541-774-6654.

OTHER RESOURCES: Southern Oregon Humane Society, www.sohumane.org; C.A.T.S., www.kittensandcats.org; Sanctuary One, www.sanctuaryone.org; Spay/Neuter Your Pet (SNYP) — low-cost options; www.spayneuter.org.

Share This Story

Source: http://mailtribune.com/lifestyle/pet-of-the-week-meet-sugar

#read more #see more #check it out #interesting #learn more

[celeryhawk30]

Cat Seems Attached to Firefighter Who Saved Him

<![CDATA[ #menu font-size: 14px; #menu:hover .admin-menu display: block; .admin-menu display:none .admin-label:before float: left; content: ""; background-image: url(//media.mercola.com/Themes/mercolaArticle/images/badge-expert-user.png); background-size: 15px; height: 15px; width: 15px; margin-right: 6px; margin-top: 2px; ]]>

After being saved by a firefighter, this cat seems to have claimed his rescuer for life, sitting on his shoulder, rubbing against his cheek and acting like he can’t get close enough!

Source: https://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2019/01/04/cat-seems-attached-to-firefighter-who-saved-him.aspx

#read more #see more #check it out #interesting #learn more

[celeryhawk30]

‘Secret Life of Pets 2’ and ‘Dark Phoenix’ Vie for Top Spot in Crowded Box Office - TheWrap

Last weekend was a busy one for movie theaters with three wide releases from major studios, but it doesn’t get any quieter this weekend with the release of two major titles: Universal/Illumination’s “The Secret Life of Pets 2” and Fox/Disney’s “Dark Phoenix.”

“Secret Life of Pets 2” is expected to take No. 1, though with an opening weekend much smaller than its 2016 predecessor. Box office trackers are expecting an opening for the animated movie in the $60 million range, and the studio expects that an opening in the $50 million range would be a strong start. However, the first “Secret Life” earned a $104 million opening en route to grossing $875 million worldwide, second only to “Shrek 2” among non-Disney animated films.

But even if this sequel doesn’t match the original’s box office total, its presence will be welcomed by movie theater owners. While last summer’s box office was strong, “Incredibles 2” was the only major box office force among animated films, though “Hotel Transylvania 3” provided some modest contributions.

Also Read: 'The Secret Life of Pets 2' Film Review: Cartoon Offers Outdated Messages About Marriage, Manliness

“Secret Life of Pets” was key to Illumination becoming a global box office force on the level of DreamWorks and Pixar, expanding the studio’s stable of characters beyond “Despicable Me.” The sequel should have the same overseas potential, grossing $31.6 million in nine markets throughout May, and it should provide even more fuel to keep families coming to theaters along with the usual Disney fare.

Speaking of Disney, “Dark Phoenix” will mark a big moment in that studio’s history, as the “X-Men” film is the first major blockbuster it will release from 20th Century Fox. While Disney has released other Fox films since acquiring its former competitor back in March, including the Christian film “Breakthrough,” “Dark Phoenix” is the first to come from one of the major franchises that Disney sought after to build its already dominant IP stable.

While the horror spinoff “The New Mutants” is still to come, “Dark Phoenix” will be the final film to feature major members of the X-Men like Charles Xavier and Jean Grey before they become a part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe in the coming years.

Also Read: 10 Riskiest, Priciest Summer Movie Gambles, From 'Dark Phoenix' to 'Detective Pikachu'

But the series’ final installment will be a far cry from its box office peak. The film is estimated for an opening of $55 million, which is only slightly better than the series low opening of $53 million earned in 2013 by “The Wolverine.” The studio is projecting between $40-50 million for “Dark Phoenix” domestically in over 3,700 locations.

Long term, “Dark Phoenix” is expected to at best match the global total of 2016’s “X-Men: Apocalypse,” which made $543 million thanks in good part to a $121 million Chinese gross. But even if this era of the X-Men goes out with a whimper, its presence will only add to Disney’s already enormous market share, which currently sits at over 35% with more than $1.5 billion grossed domestically in 2019. With its intensely anticipated slate, Disney is already expected to gross way more than $3 billion this year, but the additional grosses from Fox films could push it close to the $4 billion mark.

Based on the famed “X-Men” comics arc of the same name, “Dark Phoenix” follows Jean Grey (Sophie Turner) as her telepathic and telekinetic powers are heightened following a solar flare. However, the rise in those powers also creates an evil alter ego, the titular Dark Phoenix, which threatens to destroy both the X-Men and humanity.

Also Read: Why the Memorial Day Box Office Isn't What It Used to Be

Written and directed by Simon Kinberg, the film also sees the return of James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender, Jennifer Lawrence, Nicholas Hoult, Tye Sheridan, Alexandra Shipp, Kodi Smit-McPhee and Evan Peters to the cast, with Jessica Chastain also starring.

Farther down the charts, Amazon Studios will return to theaters with the limited release of “Late Night,” a comedy about a struggling veteran late-night host who tries to recover her ratings by hiring a woman of color to her all-white, all-male writers’ room.

Critics have been generally positive on the film with a 77% Rotten Tomatoes score thus far, but praise has particularly been heaped on leading duo Emma Thompson and Mindy Kaling, who are getting early Oscar buzz for their respective performances as the seasoned host and her new writer.

Also Read: Emma Thompson Tries to Be a 'White Savior' in New 'Late Night' Trailer (Video)

“Late Night” will try to turn that into hype into some success similar to that of their 2017 film “The Big Sick,” which grossed a solid $42.8 million. The comedy opens in Los Angeles and New York this weekend, with a wide release on June 14.

Source: https://www.thewrap.com/secret-life-of-pets-2-dark-phoenix-box-office-preview/

#read more #see more #check it out #interesting #learn more

[celeryhawk30]

Be Sure Your Vet Screens for This, Especially if Your Pet Is Over 7 Years Old

If you're a cat parent, you may be aware that feline hyperthyroidism is an epidemic in the U.S. It's the most commonly diagnosed endocrine disorder in domestic cats, especially senior kitties. In fact, 95 percent of cats with hyperthyroid disease are 10 years or older.1

Hyperthyroidism is typically caused by a benign tumor (adenoma) on the thyroid gland — a butterfly-shaped gland at the base of the throat — that causes overproduction of thyroid hormone. This hormone regulates metabolism, heart rate and digestive function. When the gland overproduces thyroid hormone, the result is hyperthyroidism. Excessive production of thyroid hormone can cause serious, even life-threatening symptoms in kitties.

Symptoms to Watch for, Especially in Cats Over 10

About half of all kitties that develop hyperthyroidism have an increased appetite, but ultimately, about 90 percent of them lose weight because a side effect of excessive thyroid hormone levels is an increase in metabolism. Other symptoms of hyperthyroidism include:

High blood pressure

Frequent vomiting

Increased body temperature, heart and respiration rates (due to the up regulation of metabolic processes)

Hyperactivity

Eye problems in undiagnosed/untreated cases

A combination of increased appetite, weight loss and sudden, unexpected bursts of energy in an older cat is a definite sign he or she may have an overactive thyroid. It's important to make an appointment with your veterinarian as soon as possible.

Potential Causes of Feline Hyperthyroidism

Exposure to flame-retardant chemicals (polybrominated diphenyl ethers, or PBDEs) has been linked to the development of hyperthyroidism in cats. PBDEs are recognized endocrine and thyroid disruptors.

In a 2015 study, researchers analyzed the blood from 60 pet cats for the presence of flame-retardant chemicals. The objective of the study was to evaluate the differences in the levels of chemicals in healthy cats versus cats diagnosed with hyperthyroidism. Of the 60 cats in the study, 23 had normal thyroid function and 37 were hyperthyroid.

The study results showed that the hyperthyroid cats had higher blood levels of PBDEs on a fat weight basis. Another earlier study suggested that flame-retardant chemicals in house dust are linked to thyroid disease in cats. The study authors concluded that cats are primarily exposed to flame-retardant chemicals by ingesting house dust — which occurs when they groom themselves.2

Housecats seem to have extraordinary exposure to PBDEs. In 2012, Swedish researchers demonstrated that serum PBDE levels in Swedish cats were about 50 times higher than in the Swedish human population,3 and a 2007 study showed that PBDE levels in U.S. cats were 20- to 100-fold greater than median levels in U.S. adults.4

A more recent study sheds even more light on the connection between flame-retardant compounds and feline hyperthyroidism, suggesting that fish-flavored cat food could be a culprit.5 Scientists evaluated cat food and feline blood samples and discovered that the type of polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) and PBDE byproducts found in both the food and blood samples are derived from marine organisms.

The researchers were also able to simulate the way in which the bodies of cats convert the type of chemical present in the food into the type of chemical seen in the cats' blood samples.

Based on their results, the team concluded that the byproducts detected at high levels in cats' blood samples likely came from fish-flavored cat food and not exposure to PCBs or PBDEs. However, further work is needed to determine the link between the metabolites (byproducts) and hyperthyroidism.

Very Important: An Expert's Recommendations for Thyroid Testing in Cats

According to Dr. Jean Dodds, an expert on thyroid disease in animals, one of the problems in diagnosing pets with thyroid disease is the use of standard laboratory reference ranges. There's just one reference range for cats, no matter their age, which makes little sense since we know from scientific studies that age affects thyroid levels.

Veterinarians typically run a number of blood tests during wellness exams for their patients, one of which is a total T4 (thyroxine) test. However, the results of this thyroid function test can be very misleading, because total T4 is affected by non-thyroid-related illnesses, a wide variety of drugs and excessive iodine in the diet.

Some vets treat patients based on just the T4 value, when it may or may not be appropriate. Dr. Dodds feels that to accurately diagnose thyroid conditions, we should be running a complete thyroid antibody profile. And vets should explain to clients up front that while the test is more expensive than a T4, it will also tell us what we can rule in or out.

As part of a complete thyroid antibody profile, Dr. Dodds recommends total and free T4, and total and free T3. Many in the veterinary community believe it's useless to measure total and free T3, but she strongly disagrees. The T3 values are necessary because in the case of a sick animal who has low levels in all four measures, it's much more likely to be a non-thyroid-related illness. Total T3 and free T3 are the markers that indicate a non-thyroidal condition.

Dr. Dodds also includes a TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) test for certain cats, in particular older kitties who've been treated for hyperthyroidism, often with radioactive iodine therapy. These cats have a tendency to become hypothyroid (not enough circulating thyroid hormone) within about two to five months because the gland is no longer working.

Dr. Dodds believes the way to monitor hypothyroidism in these cats is with the TSH test because it's very helpful in regulating doses of added T4 and T3 hormones to bring kitties back to a state of metabolic balance, returning to their pre-hyperthyroid condition.

Dr. Dodds and other veterinary endocrinologists she has collaborated with have conclusively decided that it is TSH that should be monitored in cats who have become iatrogenically hypothyroid (meaning the condition was induced unintentionally by a diagnostic procedure or medical treatment).

The TSH test is also important for cats with chronic kidney disease (CKD), because CKD can affect T4 levels, lowering them into the upper limit of the normal range. TSH has proved to be the most predictive test of hyperthyroidism in cats with chronic kidney disease. Dr. Dodds also points out that suppressing the thyroid in cats with kidney failure can worsen renal (kidney) tissue profusion, so we must be very careful treating these kitties. Some actually do better being slightly hyperthyroid when they have renal disease.

How I Treat Hyperthyroidism in Kitties

If it's early enough in the development of the disease, I like to start with natural therapies that avoid many of the risks and side effects associated with more traditional approaches. It's important to catch the disease early, which is why I begin monitoring cats' thyroid levels at age 7. If there's a slow but consistent increase in thyroid levels, I begin natural thyroid balancing protocols immediately.

There are many natural remedies that can be beneficial in managing your cat's condition if it's caught early. These include homeopathic remedies, acupuncture, herbal remedies (Eastern, Western and Ayurvedic) and nutraceuticals.

My second choice when a natural approach is ineffective is thyroidectomy, which is the surgical removal of the benign tumor from your cat's thyroid gland. This operation should only be performed by a skilled soft tissue surgeon who has performed many of these procedures. Successfully done, thyroidectomy cures the patient, which is the ultimate positive outcome.

Radioactive iodine therapy is another option, but the expense often prevents people from choosing this treatment. An alternative is medical management of the disease, which means putting the kitty on a medication called methimazole, which inhibits thyroid hormone production so the amount of circulating hormone is reduced.

There can be lots of side effects of methimazole, including gastrointestinal (GI) upsets that cause vomiting; however, I've had some success avoiding GI problems by using a compounded transdermal methimazole ointment applied inside the cat's ear. Occasionally, a patient will develop an almost immediate allergic response to the drug in the form of an intense facial itch that comes on after the first pill is administered. This reaction means the drug cannot be continued and another treatment option is needed.

Other side effects, which are fortunately rare, include decreased platelets and increased liver enzymes. The downside to medical management is that cats must take methimazole for the rest of their lives, and blood levels must be routinely monitored.

And since hyperthyroidism is known to mask kidney problems in cats, it's important for veterinarians to monitor not only thyroid hormone levels but also kidney function in kitties taking methimazole. I always start holistic kidney support via herbal and nutritional supplementation when the diagnosis of feline hyperthyroidism is made. This is also an excellent time to work with a homeopathic veterinarian.

Recommendations for Helping Your Cat Avoid Hyperthyroidism

Feed a nutritionally balanced, fresh, species-appropriate diet that is respectful of a cat's natural iodine intake, and never feed your cat dog food

Don't buy canned food that is not labeled BPA-free

Avoid feeding your cat a fish-based diet, or any food containing soy products

Rid your environment of flame-retardant chemicals

Provide your cat with an organic pet bed

Purchase a high-quality air purifier for your cat's environment

Source: https://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2018/11/13/hyperthyroidism-in-cats.aspx

#read more #see more #check it out #interesting #learn more