Dealing with a doggy disability: Happy National Specially-abled Pets Day
May 3rd is a special day for pet owners like me who own a pet with a disability. It's a day to celebrate the reasons that make our pets unique and one of a kind. Today is National Specially-abled Pets Day! My dog Hazel is a 5-year-old Saint Bernese who has been dealing with her disability her entire life. She had a broken femur when she was just a puppy. The injury went undiagnosed and the bone fused together, causing one of her legs to be shorter than the other. She will always walk with a limp as a result. It was the first of many health problems that Hazel has had in her lifetime, but she's taken it in stride. Despite all of her ailments, she is an extremely happy dog.
How Pet Insurance Covers Heart Failure
Does
your heart skip a beat when you see your dog? Mine sure does, because I love my
crazy mutts! Perhaps it’s a subtle reminder that heart health is so important. Heart failure in dogs is caused by heart disease and can
be very expensive to treat. It’s a life-long condition that includes chronic
medication, veterinary visits and lifestyle changes. There are two primary ways
the heart can fail, and some breeds are more prone to heart disease than
others.
While
heart failure is covered by pet insurance companies, there are some
restrictions depending on the company or policy. Like all pet insurance
policies, heart failure is not covered if it is a pre-existing condition. Since
heart failure requires such extensive treatment, pet insurance is a great tool
to have in your tool box. Managing heart disease is stressful enough, so having
expensive veterinary bills covered can relieve some of that stress so you can
focus on giving your canine companion some much deserved love!
Pain medication and pain management for dogs
Pain medication for dogs
No dog deserves to live with chronic pain. Unfortunately,
many of them do, and that is why proper pain management for dogs is an
important way to ensure a high quality of life. Some dogs will present with limping
or lameness, while other dogs' symptoms can be harder to read. Your dog may
appear more tired than usual, lethargic or become aggressive when touched in
certain areas. Or maybe “he’s just not himself lately.” That is why a pain
assessment by your veterinarian is a great start to crafting the best pain
management plan for your pet.
The
five R’s of plastic pollution: Why Reduce, Reuse and Recycle
isn’t enough, and tips for living plastic free
Most of us grew up being taught the 3 R’s- Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. When
it came to going green and protecting the environment, the 3 R’s was where it
all began. Fast forward to 2018 and the progression of pollution and human-caused climate change is far more devastating than we could have predicted. We
are in a climate crisis, and 3 R’s just isn’t enough.
Earth
Day:
Microplastic and why it's a huge problem
Plastic pollution is a big problem, but the biggest problem
when it comes to plastic pollution is the smallest plastic of all- microplastic.
Microplastic may seem like a tiny issue that is easy to ignore, because they can
be impossible to see unless under a microscope, but the truth is microplastic
effects us in so many ways. Microplastic is a detriment to both the environment, climate change and our health and wellness.
End
plastic pollution: Earth Day focus on people and their plastic
This year’s Earth Day theme encourages us to take a closer
look at our use of consumer plastics and one-time use plastic like straws, bags
and water bottles, and how it affects the planet. Every year, Earth
Day Network launches campaigns to inspire people to take part in Acts
of Green, to help heal the planet and educate about pollution. The goal for
2018 is to have people commit to End Plastic Pollution.
Ditch the itch: Allergies and allergy medications for dogs
Allergies and allergy medication for dogs
Photo by Thomas Hawk
It’s time to ditch the itch! Allergy season is in full swing and many dogs are suffering. Pet’s allergy symptoms can present in many different ways. Most commonly dogs will become very itchy and scratch, chew and lick at different areas of their body- usually their paws- until they become red and raw. Allergies can also cause chronic ear and eye infections, rashes, hotspots and sometimes even vomiting and diarrhea. They can be hard to manage and treatment is the only way to provide your dog with some relief.
Climate Facts: Sharing science and hope
Air pollution kills 3.3 million people a year. In some parts of the world it's already so bad that people need pollution filters in their cars and homes.Pollution exposure in utero has been associated with increased risk of
neuro-developmental delay. Thirty one studies published between 2006 and 2015, from the Americas, Asia and Europe were reviewed by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) and the review came to this conclusion:
"The evidence to date is coherent in that exposure to a
range of largely traffic-related pollutants has been associated with
quantifiable impairment of brain development in the young and cognitive decline
in the elderly. There is insufficient evidence at present to comment on
consistency, in view of the different indices of pollution and end-points
measured, the limited number of studies, and the probability at this stage of
publication bias. However, plausible toxicological mechanisms have been
demonstrated and the evidence as a whole suggests that vehicular pollution, at
least, contributes to cognitive impairment, adding to pressure on governments
and individuals to continue to reduce air pollution."
My original source for information on air pollution was the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). I wrote this in advance, and checked the link to the study today. It's been removed, allegedly the page is being "updated." CLICK HERE to see for yourself. I hope someone has archived the data. This is the type of censorship of science that we are seeing under the climate denying Trump administration.
I'm really inspired by Years of Living Dangerously and their hashtag #ClimateFacts to raise awareness about climate change. Paws For Reaction #ClimateFacts raise awareness about climate science, and also share solutions and renewable achievements. I'd love to hear your thoughts and questions about climate change or the Climate Reality Corps: email pawsforreaction@live.ca
No hot dogs: Vehicle temperature chart for National Heat Awareness Day May 26 is National Heat Awareness Day, and it's a reminder to pet owners that there is no reason to leave a dog in a hot car. It gets hot fast in a car, and it doesn't take long for inside the car temperatures to reach critical highs. Dogs can die in hot cars. Leave your dog at home this summer, and if you do have to take your dog in the car, ensure that it is only for a brief moment, and there is air conditioning and cold water available.
The great dog food debate: Clean eating is great for people, but what about our pets?
If you are a dog owner, you have likely taken part in the great dog food debate of the new millennium. What do I feed my dog? Veterinary food? Holistic diets? Raw? The way we feed our pets has changed dramatically since the industrial revolution- especially the past 10 years. Dogs used to eat scraps. Even retail dog kibble was just scraps, basically. Fast forward to 2017 and dogs have become true members of the family. They aren’t chained up outside and fed scraps anymore. They have beds, outfits, playdates- even sunglasses! The money people spend on their dogs has increased, and pet owners are more concerned than ever with the quality of their dog’s diet.
It's time to talk toxins: Dangerous foods for dogs March 19-25 is National Animal Poison Prevention Week! Many common 'human' foods are dangerous if ingested by your canine companion. These people foods are highly toxic to your dog- please share this post to raise awareness!
#NationalAnimalPoisonPreventionWeek
National Walk Your Dog Week: October 1 -7
National Walk Your Dog Week kicked off yesterday and this fun awareness week is a great excuse to get in a few extra walks with your furry family member. Enjoy this week of being active and bonding with your pooch!
World Rabies Day: Why I vaccinate my pets against rabies September 28 is World Rabies Day and 2016 marks the 10th annual World Rabies Day. According to theRabies Alliance Organization in 2007, there were over 7,000 cases of animal rabies reported in the U.S. Most of these cases were in wildlife, but these animals can expose pets and humans to rabies. In the U.S., typically 1-3 cases of human rabies are reported per year and CDC confirmed one case in 2007. Even though North America is not an endemic region for rabies, it is still prevalent enough to potentially put my pets- and myself- at risk. Even if you don't encounter a lot of wildlife, mice, rats and bats can still enter the home and come into contact with your dog or cat. Once you or your pet are infected, there is no specific treatment. According to the World Health Organization FAQ's on Rabies "Human rabies caused by the classical rabies virus
continues to be almost 100% fatal, with no specific
treatment available anywhere in the world." "There are only seven recorded cases of human
rabies survivors in the world, who received intensive
nursing care. Almost all of them received preventive/
pre-exposure rabies vaccination that might have
modified the course of illness. Only one case of
human rabies caused by a bat bite did not receive
pre-exposure vaccination but survived. However, this
case was not caused by the classical rabies virus." Celebrate World Rabies Day with Paws For Reaction and vaccinate your pets against rabies! Check out the infographic below about rabies endemic regions and what to do if you or your pet is bitten.
What to do if you are bitten by an animal
-Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water for at least 5-10 minutes.
This is
the most effective first-aid treatment against
rabies. -Contact your physician immediately. -Report the bite to the local health department. If necessary, you will be assessed for
rabies post exposure prophylaxis. -Prompt and appropriate treatment after being bitten and before the disease develops can stop rabies
infection and prevent the disease.*Information source from Rabies Alliance Organization
Photo provided by Organic Week
Organic Week: Where to buy Organic food and products I'm continuing my Organic Week celebration with more tips on shopping Organic. The Organic Week website features a map of retailers who sell organic products! Wondering where to purchase organic food? Are you wanting to buy some organic beauty or cleaning products? Use this map as a reference!CLICK HERE! This Organic Week I am asking retailers to commit to adding their stores to the map. Put yourself on the map! People who live an organic lifestyle can find out where to buy from you!
Photo by Bill Tanata
Organic Week: Organic video educates about the Canada Organic rules and regulations
WATCH THE VIDEO BELOW!
Photo by Crisher Entertainment
Organic Week: How to shop for Organic food on a budget
Many people who don’t eat organic cite the high cost of
organic food as the reason for not making the switch. Even people who care
deeply about the environment, animal rights and their own health say they just
can’t afford to eat organic. Let’s face it- just eating healthy on its own is
more expensive. Harvard School of Public Health (HSPH) did a study in 2013 where
they examined 27 existing studies that evaluated the cost of healthy vs
un-healthy foods in 10 different high-income countries. Their study found that it costs about $1.50 more
a day to eat healthy, even if the food items weren’t organic. The term “healthy”
was given to diets that incorporated more food like fruits, vegetables, nuts
and fish. “Un-healthy” diets consisted mostly of packaged processed food, meat
and refined grains.
Nature at its best: Organic Week kicks off tomorrow!
Photo by spinster cardigan
Paws For Reaction is so excited to announce that tomorrow,
September 17 kicks off Organic Week!
Eating organic is something that I am very passionate about, and over the past
year I have been able to convert the majority of my diet to Certified Organic
and Non-GMO food. Organic Week is an exciting way to raise awareness about the importance
of organic food, and sustainable, ethical farming. Whenever I see the Canada Organic logo or a product
verified by the Non-GMO Project I
know that it was created or farmed ethically and contains no genetically
modified ingredients or chemicals.
Why should you choose organic products? There are so many reasons! Products
with the Canada Organic logo must meet strict national guidelines that include but
are not limited to the following:
Barking up the family tree: Discover secrets in your dog's DNA with Royal Canin Genetic Health Analysis (GHA)
Photo by Elizabeth Tersigni
July 31 is National Mutt Day and I am a proud owner of two
mixed breed dogs. I love my mutts, and specifically wanted mixed breeds because
they are on average healthier. Many mutt owners have no idea what breeds are in
the mix, but knowing this can provide some insight into your pet’s health and
behaviour. That’s why Royal Canin is encouraging mixed breed owners to discover
the secrets in their dog’s DNA through The ROYAL CANIN® Genetic Health Analysis (GHA).
The American Humane Association reported that mixed breed
dogs are the most popular type of dog in the United States, comprising 53
percent of the nation's canine population. Having insight into your dog’s DNA can
provide you with insider information. GHA can be used to tailor your dog’s
wellness plan to include nutrition, predict a puppy's full grown size, and
provide information about possible inherited diseases. Mutts can be predisposed
to health issues and have unique behaviours just like purebred dogs, but
knowing their genetic makeup can solve some of those mysteries.
Saint Bernese puppies make the best nurses She has a lot of issues, but loving isn't one of them...
Hazel has been such a great nurse since I had my wisdom teeth removed on Tuesday. Both her and Keira have just overwhelmed me with love and affection. I have so many exciting upcoming projects that I have had to put on hold this week for my recovery, but Paws For Reaction will be up and running again soon! Thanks for caring Paws peeps!!
Early disease detection: #IDEXX knows that knowing makes all the difference
PAWS FOR REACTION is celebrating 12 years! Ottawa-based pet care and nutrition, environmental, and lifestyle blog- always searching for the best in pet care, eco-friendly products and fun local events! Come explore with Hazel, the Saint Bernese, as she lives her best, food-driven, outdoor-loving, asymmetrical, #DogLife
ABOUT ME: I have nine years of experience working in veterinary medicine. I'm a Climate Reality Project Leader and have spent years volunteering with organizations including OSPCA, Farley Foundation, Ontario Nature, Future Ground Network, and Girl Guides of Canada.
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