Loading...
Explore our articles and resources for pet parents
THE SAVANNAH CAT
savannah
The Savannah cat is an exotic cat. They are covered in spots and enjoy socializing with people as well as pets. They are also extremely curious and will want to follow you from room to room. Quite supportive in nature, the Savannah cat loves to provide companionship, which makes them ideal for therapy cats. Not only do Savannahs play well with children, they are always happy to make new friends.
Brief History
The first Savannah cat was born in the 1980s as the result of crossbreeding between an African Serval and a domestic cat. The successful crossbreed was performed by Patrick Kelly and Joyce Sroufe. The African Serval was further outcrossed with cat breeds such as Bengals, Oriental Shorthairs and Egyptian Maus. This led to a widespread establishment and acceptance of the breed. Savannah cats began getting registered by the International Cat Association (ICA) in 2001. The breed attained Championship status or full recognition in 2012.
Physical Features
The most noticeable characteristic of the Savannah cat is their beautiful, spotted coat. Their fur has a light brown shade and is covered in black spots. As a result, they have a distinctive cheetah-like appearance. Their ears are deep, large and face forward in a sonar-like way. Their eyes are big and golden. The Savannah cat has a pink nose and long white whiskers. An outstanding feature of the Savannah cat is their long legs. Thanks to this characteristic, this breed has held the Guinness Book of World Record for tallest domestic cat since 2006. They have long tails and an intelligent expression.
Average Height:
8-15 inches
Average Weight:
12-25 pounds
Life Expectancy:
12-20 years
Temperament
The Savannah is devoted to their owner or family. As a result, many people regard the Savannah cat as being a feline version of a dog. They enjoys social interaction. If left alone for long periods of time, Savannahs will pout and begin to experience separation anxiety. Their attitude is kitten-like throughout their lives. Savannahs also enjoys being involved in family or group activities. This makes the Savannah an ideal family cat.
savannah cat
Special Needs
The Savannah has quite a lot of energy and needs a structured way of exercising. The Savannah is also an intelligent breed that can understand and obey simple commands. Also, they can learn how to use a scratching pole and which sections of the house to avoid. Housetraining the Savannah can be performed in a short period of time. This is possible as long as you use positive reinforcement throughout the process.
The Savannah still has hunting and territorial instincts. So they will be protective or even aggressive around other pets. This means that they should be introduced to other animals gradually until they can be friends.
Possible Health Concerns
The Savannah is a healthy and strong cat that can suffer from some genetic diseases and adverse conditions. The Savannah can be infertile due to genetic predisposition. They may also have low levels of fertility resulting in 1 to 3 kittens per litter. The Savannah may also be very selective in picking out mates. This is because they prefer to procreate with cats that they’ve grown up with from kittenhood.
Exercise
The Savannah cat has a high level of energy. They will prance around your house and enjoys chasing birds for leisure. To control these energy levels, some exercise is required. This can be achieved by engaging the cat in sessions that involve walks, jogs or brisk runs. This can be done 2 times a day for 30 minutes each. Intense play sessions can also be great exercise for this cat. They require both physical and mental stimulation. This is because the Savannah is an intelligent cat. Puzzle games and toys are most welcome for this cat.
Nutrition
The Savannah cat requires a balanced diet. Their large size prompts generous portions per serving, but they are not picky eaters. The Savannah will gladly chow down on wet food or dry kibble. Their nutritional needs require that they consume more carbohydrates than any other food group. This is so that they can sustain their high energy levels. Savannah cats grow quickly. This warrants ample protein as well. They can be fed twice a day in the morning and the evening. Cool, clean water needs to be provided throughout the day.
Grooming
Savannah cats’ fur is short and thick. To keep it healthy and smooth, they need regular brushing at least once a day.
Their teeth and ears also need cleaning three times every week. They may produce some discharge on the inner tips of their eyes which needs to be cleaned off as soon as it emerges. Their ears are large and open which makes them collect dirt and debris quite easily. They can be cleaned at least two times every week using a special solution made of 50% cider vinegar and 50% water.
The Savannah is an interesting, beautiful cat. They are dedicated and their loyalty makes them an excellent therapy cat.
savannah cat breed
THE BERNESE MOUNTAIN DOG
Bernese Mountain dog
When we talk of the Swiss, we can’t help but think of the finest things the world has to offer. Of Swiss origin, the Bernese Mountain dog is no different. Handsomely built, these dogs are noticed everywhere they go. Their beautiful, multi colored coats have graced many famous films and add to their proud demeanor.
Brief History
Bernese Mountain dogs, also known as Berner Sennehund is one of the many dog breeds that trace their origins to the mountainous regions of Bern, Switzerland. Sennehund literally means “the herdsman’s dog”, which explains much of what this dog was used for. They were used as companion dogs to herdsmen and shepherds often seen pulling milk carts to the market, driving cows to and from the mountain pastures and guarding their keepers’ homesteads. The biological roots of this breed can be traced back to the breeding of a large mastiff dog and a small cattle farm dog. By the end of the 19th century, this breed almost became extinct when their usefulness was actively replaced by roads and machines.
Thanks to a specialty breed club formed in Switzerland in 1907, the breed was saved, giving it a new life as show dogs. In 1937, the ACK recognized the breed. In the 1970’s, the CKC followed suit. Today’s Bernese breed is lovable and fun to be around, they crave human companionship and are instinctively gentle with little children as well as little animals.
Physical Features
Bernese Mountain Dogs have a generally sporty build, which explains why they were a choice dog to compete in shows. Bernese dogs love the cool weather, and their thick silky tricolored coats keep them warm during the rough winter months. Their coat colors are: rust, clear white and jet black. On its coat and face, you are bound to see distinctive markings which are the breed’s hallmark.
Average Height:
23-28 inches
Average Weight:
70-115 pounds
Life Expectancy:
7-10 years
Temperament
Bernies are extremely friendly with people they know, but may be wary of strangers. Small animals, women and children are never a threat to them, however they are always wary when dealing with men.
Special Needs
Bernese Mountain Dogs have a wide range of personality types, due to their mixed-breed heritage. It is best to get to know your particular dog over time with lots of attention, patience and love.
Possible Health Concerns
Despite their sturdy appearance, Bernese Mountain dogs are a breed with many health problems. Their active breeding has left them more susceptible to hereditary diseases, which keep their average life expectancies low. Hereditary cancers are a major concern while other diseases are: orthopedic diseases, elbow dysplasia, bloat or gastrointestinal syndrome, blood clotting disease, heart disease, hip and elbow dysplasia and eye diseases.
the Bernese Mountain dog breed
Exercise
Bernese dogs are not an exercise-oriented breed, despite their stature. As a matter of fact, they’re known to detest long periods of activity. Due to the importance of exercise, you’ll need to devise a strategic plan that keeps them active. Having outdoor space where they can casually roam, or other pet friends to play with are good ways to encourage this to happen.
Nutrition
Bernese dogs require high quality dog food. It may be commercially prepared or home prepared under the supervision of your vet. Always provide your Bernese with clean water at all times.
the Bernese Mountain dog
Grooming
Due to their thick coats, Bernese dogs don’t do well in the hot weather. Brushing should occur several times a week to prevent shedding and hair matting. Bathing may take place as needed.
However, cleaning the face, ears and any area with folds should occur daily. You may choose to groom your dog further by taking it to a vet for hair and nail trimming.
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a beautiful, loving breed that commands attention everywhere they go. If you’re looking for a gentle companion to a house with children, Bernies are the way to go!
Preparing Your Pets for Winter
Winter storm Cato is heading up the east coast, and is expected to bring the first snow fall of the season to many cities. These conditions give us pause to consider the preparation for and well-being of our pets during these times of extreme weather. Like people, cats and dogs are susceptible to frostbite and hypothermia. They should be kept inside. Long-haired and thick-coated dogs are more tolerant of cold weather, but no pet should be left outside for long periods of time in below freezing weather.
THE SAINT BERNARD
The Saint Bernard belongs to the AKC Working Dog Group and the UKC Guardian Dog Group. This breed originated from Switzerland and was bred by Swiss monks during the seventeenth century.
Brief History
The Saint Bernard was bred by hospice monks in the Swiss Alps at the Hospice of Saint Bernard, a refuge for travelers, to help locate and rescue travelers that had been injured by avalanches or lost between Switzerland and Italy.
Though bred for search and rescue, this brave dog was also used for drafting, guarding, and turn-spit. They are believed to have rescued over 2,000 lives through their search and rescue efforts at the hospice. They are descended from the Roman Mastiff and arrived in the U.S during the nineteenth century.
Physical Features
The Saint Bernard is a large and powerful dog breed with a large head and square shaped body. Their highly-recognizable heads have a deep furrow over the skulls, which is about twice as long as it is short.
Their eyes are intelligent and kind, with lower eyelids that don’t close completely. Their medium-sized and triangle-shaped ears are dropped and high-set. This pup’s feet are large and their tails are charmingly long.
This breed has a double coat —a thick undercoat, with a straight short or long outer coat. Its coloring ranges from red to brown, or brindle, with white markings at the chest, feet, tip of the tail, noseband and neck. There can also be markings on the collar, between the eyes, muzzle, belly, legs, and end of tail. The Saint Bernard has a dark mask on the face and ears.Don’t forget their famous wrinkles.
The long haired version of this breed looks exactly like the shorthaired breed, apart from the coat, which is typically of medium length and slightly wavy.
Average Height:
25.5 -30 inches
Average Weight:
120-180 pounds
Life Expectancy:
7-10 years
Temperament
This is an affectionate, fun-loving dog that is just as friendly with strangers as with family. It’s for that exact reason, however, that they shouldn’t be counted on to be a guard dog. This breed enjoys being around children and other families. They’re big gentle giants that thrive on playing in the snow with family members and friends. During puppyhood they are super clumsy due to their large size. As they grow into adulthood, these dogs settle down and tend to nap a lot. This breed does best in snowy, cold weather.
The Saint Bernard needs to be socialized early, and to begin positive-reward training classes during puppyhood. This super large breed is best suited for farm life or suburban homes where they will have the space they need. Unfortunately, this rules out apartment life. As the Saint Bernard ages, they can become a little lazy. It’s important to maintain their exercise schedules to keep healthy and fit.
Special Needs
This breed does best with plenty of protection from the heat and needs to be kept indoors during summer. Exercise, including walks should take place early mornings and late afternoons, so as to protect this breed from heat stroke. Winter makes every Saint Bernard happy – the colder the better!
Saint Bernards that live in warmer climates will greatly benefit from getting clipped. This breed needs to be supervised carefully over the summers to make sure that they do not get overheated. Since this is a very large dog breed, they tend to become more difficult to train as they gets larger. All the more reason to start during puppyhood.
Possible Health Concerns
This is a healthy dog breed that may be susceptible to the following health conditions:
Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). Genetic predisposition to DCM is seen in large breeds like the Saint Bernard. DCM is a disease affecting the heart muscle where the heart stops pumping properly.
Bloat. This breed is deep-chested, and thus more prone to bloat. Bloat is a life threatening emergency. It is caused by the twisting of the stomach, together with the accumulation of gas, with or without fluid. It is best to never elevate your dog’s water and food bowls. Stress is also a major factor in causing bloat. Never feed a Saint Bernard a large meal followed by exercise. At the first signs of dry vomiting, restlessness and discomfort, contact your emergency veterinarian. Never wait for a few hours.
Hip Dysplasia. This is a hereditary developmental disease. HD affects Saint Bernards, and occurs when the hip joint fails to develop properly. The head of the thigh bone does not fall into the hip socket. The imperfect fit results in the joint becoming loose and unstable, and results in osteoarthritis.
Laryngeal Paralysis. This is where the cartilage and the vocal folds of the larynx do not open fully, making breathing difficult. This is an acquired medical condition, and not an inherited one.
Skin Allergies like pyoderma are common in this dog breed. This is a bacterial skin infection caused by an infection in the folds and wrinkles of their skin due to grooming difficulties.
Epilepsy is an inherited disease that causes seizures. This breed will generally require treatment with anticonvulsants from their veterinarian.
Exercise
Saint Bernards need regular exercise every day to stay fit and maintain a healthy weight. They also need daily exercise to build muscle strength. Although these are strong and powerful dogs, they do not require excessive exercise. That said, this breed does enjoy hiking, sledding and long peaceful walks. (Tip: They enjoy pulling children in carts and sleds!) They love being out in the snow and cold weather and are at their best with family and children around them.
Nutrition
Feeding your Saint Bernard a well-balanced diet with high-quality food is necessary to promote good health and longevity. The diet you choose needs to be appropriate to your dog’s age, activity level and medical conditions. That said, these dogs don’t need excessive amounts of food just because they’re large. Weight needs to be actively monitored, as they gain easily. Never feed right before or right after exercising.
Grooming
Saint Bernards have either long or short hair. Both types need careful daily grooming to avoid the buildup of dirt and grime. Use a slicker brush or metal comb for tangles. Shedding occurs twice yearly. During this time, it will be necessary to groom vigilantly and to remove loose hair so as to prevent shedding around the home.
This breed enjoys being bathed. Use natural and organic dog grooming products to keep their coats healthy. Ears will need to be wiped regularly and inspected for infections. Teeth also need to be brushed every day and cleaned twice a year at the veterinarian. Trim nails as needed.
Saint Bernards are sensitive, affectionate and loving. They’ll need to have a large garden or home to live in and absolutely cannot live in an apartment. This dog breed will need to be indoors during the hot summer months. Every effort must be made to keep this breed from overheating.
The Saint Bernard makes for a great adoption in the right home environment. Puppy training should start early because they are hard to handle as they matures due to size. Puppies are energetic and will need lots of socialization. While incredibly gentle and kind, this breed still needs regular exercise and mental stimulation. They don’t do well alone at home all day and need companionship.
COMMON CAT QUESTIONS
Despite spending thousands of years on our hearth rug, cats are some of the most mysterious house pets. Cat behavior is often seemingly inexplicable, and their moods can be unpredictable. However, there are often scientific reasons for why cats do what they do. Here are a few answers to common questions:
THE WELSH TERRIER
welsh terrier
The Welsh Terrier, also known as the Old English Terrier, comes from Wales. It is part of the AKC/UKC, Terrier Group. This breed came into existence during the 1700’s and was used in fox hunts and to catch badgers.
Brief History
The Welsh Terrier has fierce jaws and good digging skills. They were most commonly used to dig up badger lairs, but also as companion dogs. The Welsh Terrier first arrived in the U.S during the 19th century. Two older dog breeds — the Old English Black and the Tan Terrier, are believed to be related to the Welsh Terrier.
Physical Features
The Welsh Terrier is a compact and sturdy dog breed. They’re typically medium in size with a slightly rugged look. They also have a rectangular head with a square muzzle and a coarse, wiry coat. Don’t let the size fool you: though compact, their muzzles are quite strong. Welsh Terriers have a black square nose and a docked tail. They have V-shaped ears which are always folded forward. Typically, their legs, underbody and head are tan in color, with a jacket in black or grizzle.
Average Height:
18-21 inches
Average Weight:
20-28 pounds
Life Expectancy:
10-14 years
Temperament
The Welsh Terrier is friendly and outgoing. They tend to be on the feisty side with unique quirks. That being said, the Welsh Terrier is notably easy to train and game for new activities. This dog breed is known for showing intelligence and self-restraint. The Welsh Terrier is a friendly and amiable dog breed that enjoys people — especially children — and other animals. Although the Welsh Terrier has a pronounced prey instinct, when positively trained and socialized, is one of the easiest dogs to live with. They are capable of deep companionship and are immensely loyal.
The Welsh Terrier does best with lots of exercise and a fenced and secure garden or backyard. This is a very sensitive dog breed that needs tons of positive reinforcement and does well with lots of attention and affection. Care must be given to ensure that all fencing in backyards and gardens is secure, as they do have a tendency to dig. The Welsh Terrier does well with lots of off-leash running. They enjoy playing Frisbee and ball.
Special Needs
The Welsh Terrier needs an active home. This breed does well with plenty of regular exercise, positive dog training and socialization. The Welsh Terrier breed needs to be socialized from puppyhood and should never be isolated.This breed bonds closely with all family members, including children.
The Welsh Terrier needs to interact with people so as not to become bored and mischievous. Positive training needs to tailor to the specific temperament of this breed. Because of their high-energy, Welsh Terriers typically do best with an experienced dog parent that can be firm, yet kind. Interactive dog toys are a plus for the Welsh Terrier. If excessive barking is a problem, food dispensing dog toys help with boredom.
All family members need to be on the same page with positive dog training methods. Although it may be difficult to not spoil this pup, it’s for the best. The Welsh Terrier should live indoors, but may have housetraining issues if not trained positively beginning at puppyhood.
Possible Health Concerns
Legg-Perthes Disease. This is the deterioration of the top of the femur. It is characterized by a lack of blood supply and destruction of the blood vessels of the bone. It is a hereditary condition in some terrier breeds.
Dental Problems. The Welsh Terrier needs proper dental care, including preventative methods like daily tooth brushing, which will help prevent gum disease, periodontitis and endodontic disease.
Skin Allergies: This dog may be prone to Atopic Dermatitis. This is caused by an abnormal immune system response. There are many allergies which can affect the skin, and are caused by fleas, dog food and other allergens like pollen in the air. Consult with your veterinarian if your dog suffers from intense itching.
Hip Dysplasia is the abnormal development of the hip joint. It is generally characterized by a loose joint, and then degenerative joint disease.
Epilepsy is an inherited disease that causes seizures.
Primary Lens Luxation (PLL) This is an inherited disease that affects the eye. It is associated with the disintegration of the zonule fibers that hold the lens in place.
welsh terrier dog
Exercise
The Welsh Terrier is an energetic dog breed that does well with plenty of regular exercise and canine sporting activities like agility, obedience, and dock diving. Herding and Frisbee are also stress-free ways that your dog can have fun. That said, some of the best activities you can have with your dog are unorganized like going out for a jog or a long walk. Plan hikes and vigorous exercise for cool mornings.
Grooming
Clipping should be done every 8-12 weeks. The Welsh Terrier’s coat should be kept longer or unclipped in colder weather. Opting for a professional dog groomer helps with maintaining coat health.
Routine daily grooming will keep the Welsh Terrier’s coat in good condition. This is one of the easiest breeds to groom. A short bristled brush or mitt should be used to maintain a shiny and healthy coat. Twice yearly visits to the veterinarian for dental hygiene maintenance is a must. Ears need to be regularly wiped out, and nails trimmed regularly.
This breed is famously feisty, happy and energetic. They also make for good travel companions because they are so adaptable. They also love adventure. As with all terriers, it’s best to supervise when out and about to make sure that they don’t stray and that all fences are secure. Terriers are well known for digging underneath fences and escaping.
welsh terrier dog breed
PHYSICAL THERAPY AND REHABILITATION FOR PETS:
It’s all about guiding and empowering you to help your pet avoid injury, provide practical solutions and achieve rapid restoration of health and function!
THE CHIHUAHUA
The Chihuahua originated from Mexico and is named after its home state. Although its history is vague, it is believed that both the Toltec and the Aztec cultures raised small dogs called the Techichi. Many believe this breed is one of the ancient ancestors of the modern-day Chihuahua.
Brief History
The Techichi was refined by the Aztecs into a smaller dog breed over time and became an important part of their culture. This hardy little dog lived in small villages in the mid 1800’s when travelers from the U.S developed a liking to them in Mexico. The first Chihuahua was registered in 1908 with the AKC.
Physical Features
The Chihuahua is a compact little dog and often slightly longer than they are tall. This very feisty breed has a large, rounded skull with a short pointed muzzle and large, full eyes. Their ears are large and erect with outward-pointing tips. This breed has a long, thin tail which is either carried up or in a loop over their backs.
The Chihuahua typically has either a longhaired or a short, smooth coat. They also have a large ruff around the neck and feathering on the tail, feet, and legs.
This breed may be any color with a solid, marked or splashed coat. The most common coat colors found in Chihuahua’s are fawn, sable, red, black and tan, tricolor, and brindle.
Average Height:
6-9 inches
Average Weight:
2-6 pounds
Life Expectancy:
12-20 years
Temperament
The Chihuahua has a ‘terrier-like’ attitude — a small dog with a big attitude! The Chihuahua is extremely alert, barks a lot, and is very sensitive to noise. This breed needs plenty of socialization around other dogs, animals and people from puppyhood.
The Chihuahua also does well with positive training which helps them socialize with other dogs and people. That said, this very self-reliant dog breed does not do well with children and prefers a relaxed household with an elderly adult.
If socialized from a young age, the Chihuahua is great with other animals, dogs and people, but will still need plenty of time to feel comfortable. If you’re looking for a feisty, yet sensitive buddy, the Chihuahua might be the companion for you.
This sensitive breed will need time to adjust to new surroundings and will be very nervous at first. It may take a few weeks for them to adapt, but once they’ve settled down, there’s no turning back. They have some big personality, loving companionship and lots of laughs.
Special Needs
This breed tends to get scared very easily and does not like loud noises. Pet parents need to be careful that Chihuahua does not run away when off-leash. Early socialization with other dogs, people and animals is highly recommended. Chihuahuas also tend to bark a lot when afraid.
Possible Health Concerns
The Chihuahua is an active dog breed that may be susceptible to the following:
Heart Problems. Mitral Valve Disease also known as MVD occurs when the mitral valve thickens and degrades over time. Coughing and difficulty breathing are symptoms.
Eye Diseases. Dry eye is a common eye problem in this breed and has the potential to cause blindness. Consult with your veterinarian if you notice excessive blinking, sticky or red eyes.
Patellar Luxation. This happens when the kneecap is dislocated. If left untreated it can lead to arthritis.
Exercise
The Chihuahua needs regular daily walks and off-leash trips to the dog park. Although this breed is small, exercise is crucial for good health and mental stimulation. That said, the Chihuahua enjoys going everywhere. Trips to the mall, bookstore and grocery store are always welcome! This breed also enjoys hanging out at home and is very easy to look after.
Nutrition
Some Chihuahua’s pick up weight easily, and can quickly become obese. Pet parents should never underestimate the importance of a well-balanced diet. Chihuahua pet parents should assess their dog’s activity level, age, breed, and any medical conditions that he or she may be prone to. Consulting with your veterinarian about the best high-quality food options will help to give your Chihuahua a longer and healthier life. Providing your Chihuahua with fresh fruits, salmon, chicken, vegetables, minerals and fiber are a plus.
Grooming
The Chihuahua does a fair amount of self-cleaning. That said, daily grooming is always recommended along with regular bathing, brushing teeth, ear cleaning, and nail trimming. Visits to the veterinarian are recommended for teeth cleaning twice a year. Dental hygiene is crucial in small dogs. The Chihuahua enjoys being bathed, and if long haired, does well at the groomers. Occasional shedding may occur!
