ARE YOU CONSIDERING A NEW PET??? (PT. 2)

Hope we didn't overwhelm you last week with all the things to consider when thinking about getting a new pet.  However, such an acquisition is a very important step in a pet owner's life and a little extra thought should go into the decision.  In this week's issue of Questions On Dogs and Cats, Helpful Buckeye will help you make the transition from deciding to get the new pet to choosing the right veterinarian for your pet.

Mary Burch, Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist, is also the Canine Good Citizen Director for the American Kennel Club. Here, she answers this question that could easily come from anybody considering their first dog:

Mary, I'm about to get a dog, and I want to be a good owner, but I don't know exactly what that means. When I was growing up, we kept our dogs outside. Other than feeding them, they fended for themselves. You've been around a lot of dogs and owners; what do you think are the most important things for a new owner to do? Also, do you have advice on ways to bond with an older dog? I'm planning on adopting one that's not a puppy.

Mary's answer:  It's great that you want to start off right with your dog and I understand that it is a big responsibility. I know I'm biased because I work with the AKC but I believe that even though you are planning on adopting an older dog, the AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy Program has a good message for all dog owners as does the Canine Good Citizen responsible dog owner's pledge.



1) AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy Program


S.T.A.R. is an acronym for Socialization, Training, Activity (exercise) and a Responsible owner. Those are the four main components of what every dog needs to have a good life and by understanding and committing to these, you really will have a strong grounding in being a good pet parent.The key elements to S.T.A.R. are:



Socialization. This means you give your dog plenty of chances to get out and experience the world as he meets new people and other dogs.

Training. This can be done at home if you have the skills and know-how. Every dog, including your older dog, can also benefit from a training class such as agility, obedience, rally, or a therapy-dog class.

Activity. This translates to daily exercise, is a critical component of keeping your dog mentally and physically healthy.

Responsible ownership. This seems to be what you are really asking and the basic obligations of being a conscientious owner are best defined in the AKC Canine Good Citizen Responsible Dog Owner's Pledge that is shown here. Following the pledge will ensure that you've placed yourself in the category of a good (or great!) dog owner.



2) The AKC CGC Responsible Dog Owner's Pledge



I understand that to truly be a Canine Good Citizen, my dog needs a responsible owner. I agree to maintain my dog's health, safety, and quality of life.



I will be responsible for my dog's health needs including:

- routine veterinary care including check-ups and vaccines

- adequate nutrition through proper diet; clean water at all times
- daily exercise and regular bathing and grooming



I will be responsible for my dog's safety.


- I will properly control my dog by providing fencing where appropriate, not letting my dog run loose, and using a leash in public.


- I will ensure that my dog has some form of identification (which may include collar tags, tattoos, or microchip ID).


- I will provide adequate supervision when my dog and children are together.



- I will not allow my dog to infringe on the rights of others.


- I will not allow my dog to run loose in the neighborhood.


- I will not allow my dog to be a nuisance to others by barking while in the yard,

in a hotel room, etc.


- I will pick up and properly dispose of my dog's waste in all public areas such as

on the grounds of hotels, on sidewalks, parks, etc.


- I will pick up and properly dispose of my dog's waste in wilderness areas, on

hiking trails, campgrounds and in off-leash parks.


- I will be responsible for my dog's quality of life.


- I understand that basic training is beneficial to all dogs.


- I will give my dog attention and playtime.


- I understand that owning a dog is a commitment in time and caring.



I'm sure as you read these pledges and guidelines you were thinking to yourself, "of course I'll be responsible for my dog's safety, of course I'll give my dog attention!" But life gets busy and good intentions can get swept away unless you make it your priority to be a good owner to your new dog. I'm pleased to say that it looks like that is exactly what you are planning to do!

Adapted from: http://www.pawnation.com/2010/08/18/ask-the-akc-animal-behaviorist-what-should-a-first-time-dog-ow/

OK, Helpful Buckeye is hearing some rumbling from the "cat" part of our readership.  What about getting a new cat, you say?  Spend a few minutes listening to this informative podcast about "Finding The Purr-fect Cat": http://www.avmamedia.org/display.asp?sid=364&NAME=Selecting_the_Purr-fect_Cat?utm_source=smartbrief&utm_medium=email

Did Dr. Jane Brunt give you some great ideas?  OK then, if she got you interested, let's listen to her expound further on "The Benefits of Cat Ownership": http://www.avmamedia.org/display.asp?sid=361&NAME=Benefits_of_Cat_Ownership?utm_source=smartbrief&utm_medium=email

Many of our readers have sent e-mails saying that you enjoy taking an occasional short break from reading...listening to these podcasts, most of which are sponsored by the American Veterinary Medical Association.

If you are getting a new kitten/cat soon or you have just done so, you might want to consider some of these interesting items:  Ultimate Touch Gentle Slicker Brush, Dry Clean Waterless Cat Bath, Scooter Balls Kitten Toy, Selecta Cat Bowl, and All Natural Temptations Cat Treats.  They are described in greater detail, with clickable web sites, at: http://www.pawnation.com/2011/03/10/zootoo-review-5-products-to-get-you-started-with-a-new-kitten/

Now, you've either picked up your new puppy/dog or kitten/cat or you will be soon.  If you already know a veterinarian that you really like or one of your friends has recommended their veterinarian, then you're one step ahead of the curve.  However, if you're new in a city or have never had reason to use any veterinary services before, then you could use some help in sorting through what should be considered in "Choosing A Veterinarian".  The Humane Society of the United States has these recommendations:

Choosing a Veterinarian

A veterinarian is your pet's second-best friend.


When selecting a veterinarian, you're doing more than searching for a medical expert. You're looking for someone to meet your needs and those of your pet, a doctor who has people as well as animal skills. The worst time to look for a vet is when you really need one, so plan ahead and choose wisely.


Veterinarians often work with a team of professionals, including technicians and qualified support staff, so you'll likely want to evaluate the entire vet team's competence and caring. You should also consider the hospital's location and fees when making a decision. Driving a few extra miles or paying a bit more may be worth it to get the care you want for your pet.


How to find the right veterinarian


The best way to find a good veterinarian is to ask people who have the same approach to pet care as you. Start with a recommendation from a friend, neighbor, animal shelter worker, dog trainer, groomer, boarding kennel employee or pet sitter.


Look in the Yellow Pages under "Veterinarians" and "Animal Hospitals," where you can likely find important information about hours, services and staff. You can also search for veterinarians in your area online. Check for membership in the American Animal Hospital Association. AAHA membership means that a veterinary hospital has voluntarily pursued and met AAHA's standards in the areas of facility, equipment and quality care.


If you're looking for a specialist, ask about board certification. This means the vet has studied an additional two to four years in the specialty area and passed a rigorous exam.


Once you've narrowed your search, schedule a visit to meet the staff, tour the facility and learn about the hospital's philosophy and policies. This is a reasonable request that any veterinarian should be glad to oblige. Write down your questions ahead of time.


What to look for:


Is the facility clean, comfortable and well-organized?

Are appointments required?

How many veterinarians are in the practice?

Are there technicians or other professional staff members?

Are dog and cat cages in separate areas?

Is the staff caring, calm, competent and courteous, and do they communicate effectively?

Do the veterinarians have special interests such as geriatrics or behavior?

Are X-rays, ultrasound, bloodwork, EKG, endoscopy and other diagnostics done in-house or referred to a specialist?

Which emergency services are available?

Is location and parking convenient?

Do fees fit your budget, and are discounts for senior citizens or multi-pet households available?


Be a good client

• Having good client manners encourages a happy relationship with your vet.
• See your vet regularly for preventive visits, not just when your pet becomes ill.
• Learn what's normal for your pet, so you recognize the first signs of illness. If a pet's not well, don't wait until she's really sick before you call your vet. It's frustrating for a vet, and heartbreaking to owners, to see an animal die of an illness that could have been treated successfully if professional care had begun sooner.
• Schedule appointments and be on time. Lateness is rude and wreaks havoc with the office's timing.
• For your pet's safety as well as that of other clients and pets, bring your cat to the veterinary office in a carrier.
• Don't disturb your veterinarian during non-working hours for matters that can wait, and don't expect your veterinarian to diagnose a pet's problem over the telephone.
• Even if you have an emergency, call ahead to ensure that the veterinarian's available. They will have to work your pet into the regular schedule, so be prepared to wait. If your pet can't be seen that day, you might be referred to an emergency vet hospital.

Breaking up is hard to do


If you feel that your veterinarian isn't meeting your needs as a client or the needs of your pet as a patient, it may be time to find a new one. But sometimes simple misunderstandings cause conflicts, which you and your vet can resolve by talking things out and looking for solutions.  Give it a try before going somewhere else.

Adapted from: http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/resources/tips/choosing_a_veterinarian.html

Here's another podcast that will give you a short break from reading: "How To Select A Veterinarian" at: http://www.avmamedia.org/display.asp?sid=345&NAME=How_to_Select_a_Veterinarian?utm_source=smartbrief&utm_medium=email

If any of you read the comment at the end of last week's issue, you'll recall that "Pet Lover" suggested that checking with a veterinarian before acquiring a new pet is always a good idea.  Helpful Buckeye agrees and that podcast repeats that thought.

This is a good place to stop this portion of our discussion on "Considering A New Pet".  Next week will feature the conclusion to this topic.  Don't miss it!

SPORTS NEWS

It's always amazing how quickly sports fans, especially NFL fans, are willing to forget a lockout or work stoppage and get right back to cheering for their favorite team.  Helpful Buckeye thinks there were more people concerned about whether there would be an NFL season this year than there were people worried about the current "deficit" problems facing our government.  It will be interesting to see how quickly the various teams get back into their comfort zones.  Helpful Buckeye suspects there will be a certain lack of precision for the first couple games of the regular season.  We may see ample evidence of this quote from Mae West:  “An ounce of performance is worth a pound of promises."

Along those lines, Helpful Buckeye plans to take in a couple of the practices at the Arizona Cardinals' training camp this week.  They've got a brand new quarterback and I would like to see if he has that "ounce of performance".

PERSONAL STUFF

Helpful Buckeye decided it was time to submit to a test of my capability of climbing a fairly long, steep upgrade in preparation for my Rim-To-Rim hike of the Grand Canyon in September.  So, this past week, I climbed Mt. Elden to the lookout tower.  It's a climb of more than 2200 ft. (from 7000 ft. to 9200 ft.), pretty much steep uphill grade the whole way, and is rated as the 2nd most difficult hike in Arizona.  I haven't made this climb since 10 years ago so it was going to be interesting.  Good news for me...I actually cut 30 minutes off my best previous time for this climb!  Even though being 10 years older, I am in better physical condition (due mostly to my biking) and more acclimated to the higher altitude here in Flagstaff.  I'm also a bit smarter now, having learned how to properly hike on a rocky, sloping trail and to make use of a trekking pole.  At any rate, I am feeling much more confident about being able to do the Grand Canyon hike, which begins on the South Rim at 7000 ft., descends down to the Colorado River at 2500 ft., and goes back up to 8000 ft. at the North Rim...for a total of 24 miles.  My memorable quote for this effort will be:  "Challenges make you discover things about yourself that you never really knew. They're what make the instrument stretch -- what make you go beyond the norm."--Cicely Tyson, American actress

You may remember that Helpful Buckeye was very late getting his flowers planted this summer due to being gone most of the month of June.  The selection of available flowers was a bit diminished by the time I made my purchases.  The ones I did buy have done very well but I had a few pots that were still empty.  So, I decided to try some herbs for the first time in our 12 summers here in Flagstaff.  Now, my herb "garden" is really flourishing...apparently I've chosen some herbs that can thrive in our high altitude climate.  I've got a nice mixture of Basil, Italian Parsley, Tarragon, Mint, Rosemary, and Lavender...all of which Desperado and I are using frequently in our cooking and salads.  Special bonus points for any reader who can identify the 4 of these herbs that are in the same family.

~~The goal of this blog is to provide general information and advice to help you be a better pet owner and to have a more rewarding relationship with your pet. This blog does not intend to replace the professional one-on-one care your pet receives from a practicing veterinarian. When in doubt about your pet's health, always visit a veterinarian.~~

NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS AND YOUR PETS....

Hello...and welcome to the 2010 edition of Questions On Dogs and Cats, your free subscription to learning about taking better care of your pets and understanding their needs. Helpful Buckeye would like to thank all of you who took the time to join us in 2009 as the blog was getting through its second year of publication. As you can see, our dog and cat are staring into the future, wondering what 2010 will have to offer. The folks at The New Yorker have decided that the best way to approach the "New Year" is:
Since this is the first weekend of the New Year and most of our readers are gradually getting back into the reality of everyday life after the holidays, Helpful Buckeye has decided to offer a light-hearted potpourri of topics for your reading pleasure. Let's all work our way through this miscellaneous grouping of ideas before getting back into the more involved areas of dog and cat health concerns next week.

The beginning of any "New Year" can't be complete without a mention of resolutions, right?

1) The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) offers this list of 10 resolutions that would be smart for all pet owners to adopt:

Your pet gives you a lifetime of unconditional love, loyalty, and friendship. In return, it counts on you to provide it with food, water, safe shelter, regular veterinary care, exercise, companionship, and more. Take care of these 10 essentials, and you'll be assured to develop a rewarding relationship with your canine and feline companion.

• External Identification--Outfit your pet with a collar and ID tag that includes your name, address, and telephone number. No matter how careful you are, there's a chance your companion may become lost—an ID tag greatly increases the chance that your pet will be returned home safely. The collar should not be too tight; it should fit so two fingers can slip easily under his collar. Have your pet microchipped by your veterinarian. Microchip ID will ensure that your pet will be returned to you if lost, even if its collar came off. When scanned by a veterinarian or animal shelter, your phone number, address and other vital information will show and you can be contacted.


• Follow local laws for licensing your dog and/or cat and vaccinating them for rabies. Check with your local animal shelter or humane society for information regarding legal requirements, where to obtain tags, and where to have your pet vaccinated.


• Follow this simple rule—off property, on leash--Even a dog or cat with a valid license, rabies tag, and ID tag should not be allowed to roam outside of your home or fenced yard. It is best for you, your community, and your pet to keep your pet under control at all times.


• Give your dog proper protection--A fenced yard with a doghouse is a bonus, especially for large and active dogs; however, dogs should never be left outside alone or for extended periods of time. Dogs need and crave companionship and should spend most of their time with their family, not alone outside.


• Take your pet to the veterinarian for regular check-ups--If you do not have a veterinarian, ask your local animal shelter or a pet-owning friend for a referral in choosing a veterinarian.


• Spay or neuter your dog and cat--Pets who have this routine surgery tend to live longer, be healthier, and have fewer behavior problems (e.g., biting, running away). By spaying or neutering your pet, you are also doing your part to reduce the problem of pet overpopulation.


• Give your pet a nutritionally balanced diet, including constant access to fresh water--Ask your veterinarian for advice on what and how often to feed your pet. Dietary requirements change as pets get older, and their teeth need to be cleaned and monitored regularly to ensure they can eat properly.


• Enroll your dog in a training class.--Positive training will allow you to control your companion's behavior safely and humanely, and the experience offers a terrific opportunity to enhance the bond you share with your dog.


• Give your dog enough exercise to keep him physically fit (but not exhausted)-- Most dog owners find that playing with their canine companion, along with walking him twice a day, provides sufficient exercise. Walking benefits people as much as it benefits dogs, and the time spent together will improve your dog’s sense of well-being. If you have questions about the level of exercise appropriate for your dog, consult your veterinarian.


• Be loyal to and patient with your faithful companion--Make sure the expectations you have of your pet are reasonable and remember that the vast majority of behavior problems can be solved. Remember, not all "behavior" problems are just that; many can be indicators of health problems. For example, a dog who is suddenly growling or snapping when you touch his ears may have an ear infection. If you are struggling with your pet's behavior, contact your veterinarian.

2) The American Kennel Club has also contributed their list of suggestions for New Year's resolutions:

As the end of the year approaches, the American Kennel Club (AKC) urges pet owners to remember the family pet while pondering potential New Year’s resolutions. "Eighty-one percent of dog owners buy gifts for their dogs," said AKC spokesperson Lisa Peterson. "But what you should really be giving them is consistent exercise, training and stimulation. Try to start the year off right by resolving to do more with your dog in 2010." So if your Beagle isn’t being walked briskly, your Terrier getting trained, your Rottweiler racking up ribbons in the ring and your Great Dane’s not a canine good citizen, consider these suggestions from the dog experts at the AKC:

• Young and old dogs can learn new tricks. Start your puppy off on the right foot with an AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy training class. Adult dogs (over 1 year old) can take the AKC Canine Good Citizen test. Both programs teach basic manners and socialization needed to help both dog and owner to be a responsible member of society. All dogs are eligible and they earn a special certification upon completion.


• Train your dog for competitive events. Every weekend all over the country there are dog events where you can earn ribbons, titles and trophies. Plus there’s the reward of meeting new people with a similar love for dogs and ensuring that your dog is well-behaved, even tempered, physically fit and a joy to live with.


• Get Fit with Fido. The National Academy of Sciences reports that one out of every four dogs and cats in the western world is now overweight. Daily walks are a great way for both dogs and owners to avoid gaining extra holiday pounds. According to a recent study, dog owners get more exercise walking their pet than someone with a gym membership.


• Dogs love helping others. Dogs are invaluable in providing service to humans – visiting the sick, helping the disabled, locating missing persons, and much more. If a dog has the correct temperament, there are many ways dog owners can put their special skills to use in service to their community. Contact the volunteer director at your local hospital to find out how you and your dog can qualify to volunteer or visit a home-bound neighbor.


• Help kids learn to read. There is no better listener than a dog. Many libraries have programs for children to practice their reading skills and gain confidence by reading with dogs. Contact your local library to learn about available reading programs or volunteer to start one with your dog.


• Travel with your dog. Planning vacations and getaways that include your dog will save you boarding fees and will keep Fido from getting lonely while you are having fun in the sun. More hotels are becoming dog friendly.

3) In addition to your own New Year's resolutions for your pets, your dog might have a few of his own. The AKC reflects on some resolutions your dog might be thinking about for 2010.

If Dogs Could Talk: A Dog's Top Ten New Year's Resolution List

• 10--Owner on floor, dog in bed.


• 9--Stop begging and actually get a seat at the dinner table.


• 8--Give up the dream of ever catching my tail.


• 7--Bark like a big dog but still get cuddled on lap like a little dog.


• 6--Get back at cat for litter box incident.


• 5--Find every bone I ever buried.


• 4--No more haircuts! (come fall, I can go as a Komondor for Halloween).


• 3--Become alpha dog in my house. Well, at least stop letting the cat push me around.


• 2--Invent goggles that allow me to see the electric fence.


• 1--Finally pass that darn AKC Canine Good Citizen test.

4) For those of you who might have received a gift certificate for a new puppy or kitten or are simply contemplating getting a new pet, the HSUS provides this description of your choices:

Which is Right For You: Pure or Mixed Breed?

Dogs and cats fall into one of two categories: purebreds or mixed breeds. The only significant difference between the two is that purebreds, because their parents and other ancestors are all members of the same breed, generally conform to a specific "breed standard." This means that you have a good chance of knowing what general physical and behavioral characteristics a puppy or kitten of that breed is likely to have.

The size, appearance, and temperament of most mixed breed dogs can be predicted as well. After all, mixed breeds are simply combinations of different breeds. So if you can recognize the ancestry of a particular mixed breed dog or cat, you can see how a puppy or kitten is likely to look as an adult.

Some people think that when they purchase a purebred, they're purchasing a guarantee of health and temperament, too. This is simply not true. In fact, the only thing the "papers" from purebred dog and cat registry organizations certify is that the recording registry maintains information regarding the reported lineage and identity of the animal. Mixed breeds, on the other hand, offer several advantages that prospective pet owners may fail to consider. For example, when you adopt a mixed breed, you get the benefit of two or more different breeds in one animal. You also get a pet who is less prone to genetic defects common to certain purebred dogs and cats.

Whether you're thinking about adopting a dog or cat, purebred or mixed breed, it's important to make sure your favorite type of animal fits with your lifestyle. You may love border collies, for example, but these active dogs likely aren't a good match for busy apartment dwellers living in a city. So first become knowledgeable about what kind of animal you want and about what it takes to be a responsible pet caregiver.

There are several types of organizations from which you can adopt a companion animal, whether purebred or mixed breed. Not all sources are the same, however, so it's important to learn as much as you can, and then choose carefully. Your veterinarian will be glad to discuss your options with you.

5) If your choice of new pet is a kitten, the SPCA International has this advice for you:

10 Tips for a Happy "Mew" Kitten

When a new kitten has joined your family, it's good to get things started off on the right paw, and the food and care you choose can make all the difference in the health and happiness of your growing kitten. Here are 10 starter tips for you and your "mew" companion:

• Continue feeding your kitten its "normal" diet, but slowly introduce high quality kitten food (i.e., high in protein and taurine, and low in fillers and carbs) into the mix; consult your veterinarian as to what best serves your cat. After it has adjusted, feed it the high quality food exclusively.


• Feed your kitten at least three times a day from a shallow plate. Remember, they’re tiny things and so they need easy access to their food. Snacks, especially during the growing stage, should also be included. Small amounts of high-protein foods like cooked egg yolk, boneless fish, and cooked or raw liver will be a great treat, and will help build strong bones.


• That said, it's alright to feed your kitten frequently while it is growing (under six months old), even several times a day. If your kitten prefers grazing or eats modestly, keep a small amount of dry kibble available in a dish for it throughout the day.


• Dry or wet? Many owners find a happy balance between the two. Perhaps wet food in the evening and dry in the day.


• Always have fresh water available and check it throughout the day for cleanliness. Keep in mind that water is enough, no other liquid needs to be given. In fact, cow milk can cause quite a tummy ache and should be avoided. Yes, cats like the taste of milk and will drink it if you give it to them in a bowl. But that's not saying much, seeing as they also like the taste of antifreeze. Leave cow milk to small calves -- and people.


• When you first bring your kitten home, it’s a good idea to keep your kitten in the same room with the litter box for a few days so that it may get used to it. Kittens don’t need much in the way of training. Often, just knowing where the box is is enough of an incentive to use it; cats naturally prefer to bury their waste.


• Keep a close eye on your kitten. They’re small, curious, and can get into trouble. It is all too easy for a small animal to get caught between furniture and appliances, fall into a toilet, or be stepped on. Until it learns self safety, you will be your kitten's best line of defense.


• Take your kitten for a checkup and all appropriate immunizations.


• Getting your kitten spayed or neutered makes for a healthier and happier cat, and thus a happier you. Fixed cats don’t go into heat or get pregnant and are less likely to get into fights or spray urine. Neutering is usually done around six months, but most younger kittens handle this small surgery very well, and can have it done anytime after two months, but your vet will be the best judge of this. Make the appointment in advance, based on your vet's advice.


• Play with your kitten. A piece of string, crumpled paper, or a toy from pet store -- almost anything can be a toy. Kittens (and cats) love to play. The bond you begin now, through play and unconditional love, will be unshakable for many years to come. Love your kitten and treat it well. Soon, your kitten will grow into a beautiful, faithful, and loving cat.

PRODUCT OF THE WEEK

Helpful Buckeye has received many e-mails asking about the easiest way to give medicines to your dogs and cats. As with many other things in life, there really isn't an "easiest" way to do this, but rather, it would be whatever technique works best for you. Your veterinarian would be the best person to talk to about giving medicines to your pets. They can show you how to work around your pet's mouth without being too afraid. If that doesn't work for you, then you should consider Greenies Pill Pockets, for dogs: http://www.greenies.com/en_US/Products/Dogpillpockets.aspx and for cats: http://www.greenies.com/en_us/Products/FelinePillPockets.aspx

GENERAL INTEREST

1) On a list of the strangest pet stories of 2009, Helpful Buckeye found this account of a chihuahua in Michigan that got literally blown a mile away from its owners during a storm: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/30448774/ns/health-pet_health/

2) Not to be outdone (at least, on the flying angle), a 5-lb. Pomeranian in Iowa was recently picked up by a Great Horned Owl and miraculously survived a 3-mile flight, only to be dropped to the ground. The Pomeranian survived with only a broken tail and some scrapes: http://www.startribune.com/blogs/79446022.html Check out these talons of a Great Horned Owl (these would explain the scrapes, huh?): 3) Perhaps if the Pomeranian in the story just mentioned had learned to jump rope like these dogs, it wouldn't have been carried away by the owl. Enjoy 5 videos of different dogs jumping rope: http://www.pawnation.com/2009/12/29/video-dogs-jumping-rope/

4) Another nice example of agility in the canine world is this dog that started out being trained as a service dog, but then switched to riding a surf board...go to this site and click on the video: http://petsaresmart.blogspot.com/2009/12/service-surfer-dog.html 5) The lists for most popular pet names in 2009 have just been released. It seems a little strange that Lucy, Daisy, Charlie, Bella, and Molly make the Top 10 for both dogs and cats. To read the whole lists, plus the Top 10 Most Unusual Names, go to: http://www.pawnation.com/2009/12/31/most-popular-pet-names-of-2009/

6) The state of Arizona has set a record for the most animals found rabid during the 2009 year. We surpassed our previous record of 176 set in 2008 by 85. Not all of these, of course, are dogs and cats. For the rest of the story from the Arizona Republic, go to: http://www.azcentral.com/arizonarepublic/local/articles/2009/01/02/20090102B1-talker0102.html

SPORTS NEWS
The Ohio State Buckeyes delivered a resounding defeat of Oregon in the Rose Bowl on New Year's Day. The coaching staff finally decided to let the guys play a more wide-open game and the results were very gratifying. Enjoy a few rousing rounds of "Across The Field" by the OSU band: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ktKvjKY0qI

PERSONAL STUFF

Helpful Buckeye was able to add a few more miles to his biking record for the year. The final total for 2009 was 5025 miles....

Among the nice diversity of gifts Helpful Buckeye received over the holidays were a very tasty assortment of coconut treats, a beautiful hand-made pen (incorporating desert ironwood), and an interesting book, Gentlemen, Start Your Ovens (Killer Recipes For Guys)...in which I found a recipe for...Wedgie With Croutons! That one sounds provocative....

From one of my favorite singers, song-writers and book-writers, Jimmy Buffett, comes this quote that should help us all as we make our way into the New Year: “The best navigators are not always certain where they are, but they are always aware of their uncertainty.” Billy Cruiser, in Where Is Joe Merchant?, by Jimmy Buffett

For all of our pet-owning readers, this quote by "Anonymous" should give us all a good start for 2010: "Until one has loved an animal, part of their soul remains unawakened."

~~The goal of this blog is to provide general information and advice to help you be a better pet owner and to have a more rewarding relationship with your pet. This blog does not intend to replace the professional one-on-one care your pet receives from a practicing veterinarian. When in doubt about your pet's health, always visit a veterinarian.~~