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SUMMER SAFETY FOR PETS
Summer has arrived, although I am aware that some of you in many parts of the United States went directly from winter to summer without the slow transition of spring. Nevertheless, hot weather is upon us and we should all be aware that there are some definite dos and don’ts that should be observed in the summer all across the country regarding our pets.
THE HAVANESE
boston terrier dog breed
The gentle and friendly Havanese with their soft coats and bright eyes are a favorite of apartment-dwellers. But this lively and intelligent “Dog of Cuba,” who is gaining popularity, was once nearly extinct.
Brief History
The Havanese is from a bloodline called the Barbet, now known as the Bichon family, descended from the Mediterranean area as far back as 600 B.C. Relative breeds include the poodle, the water spaniel, and the Portuguese Water Dog.
There is some dispute between dog historians about the origin of the Havanese. Some theorize that they descended from the Italian Bolognese and the South American Poodle. Others think their origin lies within the Maltese and that they were transported to the West Indies.
Cubans agree that the Havanese were brought by sailors as gifts intended to charm señoras in the early 1800s. The puppies were goodwill ambassadors, encouraging trade between the sea captains and wealthy Cuban families. The Havanese became a fixture in the homes of well-to-do citizens.
The Cuban Revolution of 1959 endangered this dog, as the population was forced to flee the country. They left pets behind in the care of friends and servants. A couple of families managed to smuggle their dogs out of the country. These were the first Havanese to arrive in the United States.
In 1974, the Goodales of Colorado began searching for a dog to enhance their breeding career. They wanted an intelligent companion dog, and in their search, they discovered an article about the Havanese in a Spanish magazine. They tracked down the Cuban families who had spirited the dogs out of the country and acquired six dogs from them. They expanded their search and located six more Havanese from a Cuban devotee in Costa Rica. Through their efforts with four bloodlines, they kept the breed from becoming extinct.
Five years later, the Goodales helped to found the Havanese Club of America. The United Kennel Club recognized the Havanese in 1991, and five years later, the breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club.
Physical Features
According to the AKC breed website, the Havanese has, “a curled-over tail and a gorgeous silky coat, which comes in a variety of colors.” The Havanese has a sturdy body that is longer than it is tall.
Average Height:
8.5-11.5 inches
Average Weight:
7-13 pounds
Life Expectancy:
14-16 years
Temperament
The Havanese is a fun animal and has a reputation for being a canine clown. They are intelligent and sturdy enough to compete in dog sports such as obedience and agility.
Special Needs
The Havanese is active and needs a sufficient amount of exercise daily. Their coats need regular brushing, although some owners like to let the hair grow in plaits.
Possible Health Concerns
Havanese can be prone to the following:
Hip dysplasia
Chondrodysplasia
Elbow dysplasia
Cataracts
Legg-Perthes disease
Mitral valve insufficiency
Patellar luxation
Deafness
Heart murmur
Portosystemic shunt
the havanese
Exercise
The Havanese is a toy dog, but these animals require more exercise than some of the couch potato breeds. This lively, fun companion will keep you busy throwing a ball or even playing chase with a wad of paper. They enjoy climbing, and you may often find them on the back of your couch.
Nutrition
Because Havanese are keen-witted, they can quickly con their owners into feeding them only tasty table food. It takes a savvy owner to keep a Havanese on a strict diet of balanced kibble with some added meat or fish or steamed veggies.
The Havanese is a high-spirited and sweet companion. Knowing one will make you grateful that the breed is still around.
havanese
THE JAPANESE BOBTAIL CAT
True to their name, the Japanese Bobtail is a playful breed with a short tail that resembles a pom-pom. According to ancient Japanese legend, the bob-tail is as a result of a cat that set her tail on fire while sleeping. The frightened kitty reacted by running, and accidentally set the town on fire. The truth behind the cat’s short tail stems from natural genetics. Generally, Bobtails are people-oriented, full of energy and extremely endearing. They adjust well to dogs and other animals.
Brief History
The Japanese Bobtail has existed in Japan for centuries. It is even depicted in ancient prints and paintings from Japan.
The Bobtail didn’t arrive in America until 1968 when Elizabeth Freret imported a number of kittens from Japan. This was recorded by the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA). This is the world’s largest registry of pedigreed cats. Around the same time, another cat breeder named Lynn Beck, visited Japan and began importing Bobtails.
In 1976, the CFA accepted the breed for championship status. A few years down the line, the same organization gave recognition to a long-haired version of the Japanese Bobtail.
Physical Features
The Japanese Bobtail is a medium-sized cat with a muscular appearance. This is attributed by its slightly longer hind legs and medium-sized bodies. Their eyes are wide, large and alert while the eyeballs feature a shallow curvature that doesn’t bulge beyond the cheek bone. The eye color ranges from gold, blue to green. Japanese Bobtails have a wide range of colors and patterns. Preference is usually given to bold, dramatic markings. The tail is visibly short and it may be rigid or flexible. The hair on the tail is somewhat thicker and longer. Their bone structure is slender and dainty.
Average Height:
8-14 inches
Average Weight:
6-10 pounds
Life Expectancy:
15-18 years
Temperament
Japanese Bobtails are sweet, active and intelligent cats. They enjoy games like fetch, and highly developed muscles also allow them to jump hurdles and heights. Bobtails are also people-oriented, which makes them ideal companions. They tend to get along fairly well with most cat breeds and adjust well with dogs.
Japanese Bobtails are inquisitive in nature.
Possible Health Concerns
If well maintained, the Japanese Bobtail is healthy and strong. Despite this, they can suffer from a collection of adverse health conditions such as obesity. They can also suffer from periodontal disease. Japanese Bobtails are susceptible to viral infections like rabies, rhinotracheitis, calicivirus and panleukopenia. These infections are preventable through vaccination. This breed may also suffer infestation by parasites like hookworms, roundworms, whipworms and heartworms. It is important for the cat to undergo regular visits to the vet in order to avoid such health problems.
Exercise
Since they are quite active, they will require regular exercise. This is also for the purpose of maintaining healthy weight and lifestyle. 30 minutes of a brisk jog or playtime twice a day is enough for this cat.
Grooming
Taking care of the Japanese Bobtail is quite easy. This short-tailed feline will require frequent combing. For weekly removal of dead hair, it is best to use a flea comb. Their silky coat is water resistant which means that they rarely need a bath. It is important to note that some Bobtails have rigid tails so you should make sure you handle their tails gently when grooming.
The Japanese Bobtail thrives in environments where it is surrounded by adventurous and lively people. They are quite playful and provide great company along with adorable looks. This beautiful exotic cat has a warm personality and can be an excellent family cat.
THE DACHSHUND
The Dachshund originated during the sixteenth century and is believed to be related to the Basset Hound and a terrier breed. The word “Dachshund” is German and means “badger dog,” since they were bred to dig into badger dens to force the animals out. Their bodies are low and bred especially for underground work.
Brief History
Dachshunds of different sizes were bred to hunt different a wide spectrum of animals ranging from badgers to wild boar — especially when the pursuit took place in burrows. The breed’s loud bark allowed for his pet parent to locate him underground easily. Today the Dachshund is still used for hunting, as well as companionship.
Physical Features
This breed is compact with a long, muscular body. With a wedge-shaped head, super soft long drop ears, a deep chest and long tail, this breed can be either miniature or standard in size. They have very short legs with three types of coats: long and silky, short and smooth, or long and wiry. The color can either be red or cream, black, chocolate, blue, or fawn with tan. The Dachshund has a long back with elastic-like skin and is extremely well-balanced despite their short legs.
Average Height:
11-13 inches
Average Weight:
16-32 pounds (Standard Dachshund)
Under 11 pounds (Miniature Dachshund)
Life Expectancy:
12-16 years
Temperament
These dogs are incredibly intelligent, active, playful, and love affection. They are outgoing, friendly, and fun to have around. This pup does well with apartment living and plenty of socialization.
Special Needs
This breed is prone to weight problems, so pet parents should always monitor closely. Unhealthy weight gain will quickly lead to strain on the back and legs. It’s hard to resist affectionate Dachshunds begging at the dinner table, but be sure to feed only healthy foods.
Possible Health Concerns
This is an active dog breed that may be susceptible to the following:
Bloat. This pup is deep-chested and thus more prone to this life threatening condition. Bloat is caused by the twisting of the stomach combined with the accumulation of gas with or without fluid. Stress is also a major factor in causing bloat. Never feed your pup a large meal followed by exercise. At the first signs of dry vomiting, restlessness and discomfort, contact your emergency veterinarian immediately.
Epilepsy. Epilepsy is an inherited disease that causes seizures.
Hyperthyroidism. This is a deficiency of the thyroid hormone and can cause weight gain, as well as constipation and cold sensitivity.
Intervertebral Disc Disease. 25% of Dachshunds will suffer from damage to the discs of their spines at some stage of their lives. This causes severe pain and can lead to spine damage and paralysis.
Exercise
The Dachshund needs regular exercise every day to maintain strong back muscles and keep a healthy weight. They should never be allowed to run up and down steps or to jump off furniture. This breed enjoys being indoors with their pet parent.
Nutrition
Higher-quality dog food is recommended for Dachshunds. Don’t underestimate the importance of a well-balanced diet for this small and short breed. Consult with your veterinarian for the very best nutritional advice.
Grooming
Dachshunds don’t shed much. They also don’t have much body odor. Grooming varies depending on their coat type. Longhaired Dachshunds may need daily grooming. Wirehaired Dachshunds will need to be plucked or stripped throughout the year. Eyebrow, beard and nail trimming is needed regularly, along with good dental hygiene.
The Dachshund is an easy breed to adopt. They are sensitive, affectionate and independent, but don’t like harshness or loud noises. That said, the Dachshund does need regular socialization and positive dog training during puppyhood.
The Dachshund is an easy breed to adopt. They are sensitive, affectionate and independent, but don’t like harshness or loud noises. That said, the Dachshund does need regular socialization and positive dog training during puppyhood.
HEALTHY FOOD FOR PETS
Pets are loyal buddies. They don’t only provide companionship and friendship, they also provide security and they work as guides for the sick, elderly and the physically-challenged among others. Your pet can only remain healthy and in prime shape when they enjoy a healthy body and a stable mind.
THE SPHYNX CAT
sphynx
Part of the hairless cat breeds, the Sphynx draws human attention everywhere it goes. That’s great news, because Sphynx cats love human company and make great pets for city apartments and additions to homes with children.
Brief History
The Sphynx cat is a product of selective breeding in Canada during the 1960’s and are known for their almost dog-like personalities as well as famous hairlessness.
There are two types of the Sphynx breed: the American Sphynx and the European Sphynx. Both the European and American Sphynx groups are descended from two natural lines of mutation. The first line started in 1975 with the Pearson family’s dermis and epidermis barn cats and the second started in 1978 with two stray cats, Bambi and Punke, which were found in Toronto in Ontario, Canada.
Physical Features
The International Cat Association identifies the Sphynx as a unique cat breed with the following standards. They have a wedge-like head with high cheekbones. Their eyes are large and assume a lemon shape while their ears are also large with a soft down outside base and no inside hair. A Sphynx may or may not have whiskers and if present, these whiskers are either full or broken. Their necks are of medium length, well-muscled and powerful in build. Other unique features are: a barrel chest, torso of medium length, full and round abdomen, tapering tail with a whip like appearance and thick paw pads.
Average Height:
8-10 inches
Average Weight:
6-12 pounds
Life Expectancy:
12-16 years
Temperament
Sphynx cats love attention and are generally very cheerful. They make great therapy pets being because of their loving disposition and constant smile. When not seeking or receiving attention, Sphynxes spend their time exploring their surroundings. While doing this, they are often very lively, energetic and curious.
sphynx cat
Special Needs
Sphynxes are highly social cats that can make a family out of anything. Because of this, they hate being locked away or put in enclosures that limit their freedom to move about. If you need to be away for long periods of time, consider adopting a friend for your Sphynx to play with.
Possible Health Concerns
The Bombay is a healthy and moderately active cat breed that may be susceptible to the following health conditions:
The Sphynx is a generally healthy cat breed, however they remain vulnerable to various diseases common to both mixed-breed and pedigreed cats. Sphynx owners should be on the lookout for: Urticaria pigmentosa and Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
Exercise
Sphynxs are energetic and love to spend most of their time involved in an activity. They play well with children and fellow pets and also excel in brain teaser games such as puzzle toys. Because of this, an exercise routine schedule isn’t necessary. However you can spare some time to walk with your Sphynx and play a game or two.
Nutrition
Sphynxs should do well with high nutrition cat food both home prepared or commercially manufactured. They love fruit as treats, but make sure to only give those with lots of fiber and vitamins such as apples. Clean water should also be available for them to drink and remain hydrated.
Grooming
Despite having a hairless body, the Sphynx’s coat and skin needs as much care as hairy cats. Wash your Sphynx on a weekly basis using a mild moisturizing shampoo or baby shampoo and keep the skin moisturized with scent free oil or lotion. Bathing the Sphynx from a tender age will teach it to accept baths and get more used to water. Brushing the Sphynx’s teeth helps prevent it from developing periodontal disease.
sphynx cat breed
THE YORKSHIRE TERRIER
The Yorkshire Terrier was originally bred in the UK during the late 1800’s for the main purpose of controlling the rat population in cotton mills and mines in Yorkshire and Lancashire, England. This breed was popular amongst the working class and especially the weavers themselves.
Brief History
This breed is said to be the creation of Scottish weavers who migrated to the English north country and brought their Scottish Terriers with them. The feisty pups eventually became a popular lapdog for English socialites during the latter part of the Victorian age. The Yorkshire Terrier was originally called a broken-haired Scotch Terrier, but was renamed the Yorkshire Terrier in 1870. This breed is a descendant of the Waterside Terrier, rough coated English Terrier, Old English Black-and-Tan Terrier, Paisley Terrier, and the Clydesdale Terrier. Many Yorkies had jobs in the coal mines as exterminators. The dogs first arrived in the US in the 1870’s and were recorded in the AKC in 1885.
Physical Features
Although small, this is far from a fragile breed. Feisty, determined and loyal, the Yorkshire Terrier is a well-balanced dog with square proportions and a superb head carriage. The Yorkie has a small and flat skull with a tapered muzzle. This pup carries its head high, which portrays a sense of adorable dignity and confidence — especially with the naturally erect V-shaped ears. With a long silky coat (parted down the back), the Yorkie gives the impression of vigor and of extreme self-importance, scaring even the largest of dog breeds. Today’s Yorkies are mostly clipped for easy maintenance and grooming. Yorkie pups are born black and tan and by age two develop their adult coloring of steel and blue.
Average Height:
7-9 inches
Average Weight:
3-7 pounds
Life Expectancy:
11-15 years
yorkshire terrier
Temperament
The dainty Yorkie is a true terrier breed. Although small, this dog is tenacious, brave, loyal and fun to be around. Theu have lots of positive attitude and is always game to travel. This breed truly enjoys traveling by car, exploring local neighborhoods and getting plenty of attention. These are superb watchdogs, feisty diggers and need to be watched very carefully when out in backyards. Yorkies make for terrific best friends, but can become needy. They needs plenty of socialization and positive dog training classes starting at puppyhood.
Special Needs
The Yorkshire Terrier needs supervision around children and larger dog breeds. They also need moderate, yet regular exercise every day. This breed is extremely adaptable and does well with apartment living. Dental care and grooming are of vital importance. After all, they love being being pampered. The Yorkie needs a calm environment, and thrives on consistency with regularly scheduled feed times, walks and outings.
Possible Health Concerns
Dental Problems – They need proper dental care, including preventative methods like daily tooth brushing to prevent gum, periodontitis and endodontic disease.
Hypoglycemia –This breed may be prone to suffering from low blood sugar. It is common in Yorkies that are under 20 weeks of age, but can be corrected with a high-quality diet appropriate to the their life stage. Avoid stressful environments and excessive exercise to help prevent hypoglycemia.
Legg-Perthes Disease – This is the deterioration of the top of the femur that is often seen in smaller dog breeds. 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. The sudden loss of blood supply to the femur leads to the collapse of the top of the femur bone. Veterinary treatment usually involves the surgical removal of the affected femoral head and neck and physical therapy so as to stimulate limb usage.
Luxating Patellas – This is a hereditary condition that is caused by the abnormal development of the kneecap (patella). X-rays will aid in seeing the severity of the displacement. Treatment usually involves surgery.
Exercise
The Yorkshire Terrier needs moderate exercise with brief bouts of fast activity like running after a tennis ball. They should never be over-exercised. The breed benefits from a few daily walks at a moderate pace. They needs the socialization involved with going to the dog park, or out and about the neighborhood. If not exercised sufficiently, this breed can become overly cranky and nervous. Yorkies are smart and benefit from regular environmental stimulation.
Nutrition
As with every dog breed, a high-quality dog food appropriate for the dog’s life stage is always recommended. They can be picky eaters and tend to favor certain foods over others. This breed is particularly easy to prepare home-cooked meals for under veterinary supervision.
Grooming
Their coats need to be maintained daily. Sometimes even twice a day if not clipped. Yorkies suffer from sensitive eyes, so the hair close to their brows needs to be tied up or trimmed. The Yorkshire Terrier should be bathed once a week and tends to enjoy a visit to the groomers. The ears also need to be checked often for signs of infection.
With a sweet and fun temperament, the Aussie makes a great dog breeds to adopt if you are active and have a large property. It’s not a good idea to adopt this dog breed if they will be cooped up indoors. The Aussie is too smart to do nothing all day and needs a job. Children often love this dog’s fun-loving temperament.
For all their talents, the Yorkie does not excel at being left home alone. With their feisty, affectionate personalities, they are more likely to try and escape out the front door or by the backyard if left alone for long periods of time — especially during the first few months after adoption. This breed adapts easily to new homes, but definitely needs a calm environment and plenty of attention.
THE LAGOTTO ROMAGNOLO
Lagotto Romagnolo
The Lagotto Romagnolo is a rare dog breed that originated during the Renaissance period in Italy and were bred to retrieve waterfowl. “Lago” translated, means lake in Italian. This dog breed was also used to sniff out truffles. Most water retrieving dog breeds are thought to have originated from this dog breed.
Brief History
The Lagotto dog breed goes back many centuries. The Lagotto Ramagnolo worked as waterfowl retrievers and were, for many years, used to sniff out truffles in the Italian countryside. This breed is thought to be the best in truffle sniffing. It is part of the Sporting Group, and was made part of the FSS program in 2001. This dog breed was recognized by the UKC in 2006.
Physical Features
The Lagotto Romagnolo is a small-to-medium-sized dog breed. It is powerfully built, and has a rustic, country feel. This dog breed has a distinctive, dense, curly coat with lots of woolly hair. Their eyes are large and round and can be eye hazel to dark brown. Their ears are medium-sized and triangular in shape. They are also known for having a wiry mustache. Their tails are woolly and their coats have tight, ring-shaped curls with a soft undercoat beneath. Curls are everywhere except on their heads, where they have abundant eyebrows, whiskers, and a beard. Color should be an off-white solid color, white with brown and orange patches, brown roan, different shades of brown, with or without white, orange with or without white.
Average Height:
16-19 inches
Average Weight:
24-35 pounds
Life Expectancy:
15-17 years
Temperament
The Lagotto Romagnolo is an affectionate, and easy-to-train dog breed. It is undemanding, and keen, yet very attached to its dog parent. This dog breed is an excellent guard dog, but is not aggressive. They are famous for having wonderful sniffing abilities. The Lagotto are also known for their gentleness, and for being a great companion. They are good with children, and other animals. This is an indoor dog that needs companionship, and lots of TLC. It is very loyal, and energetic. This dog breed enjoys swimming.
Special Needs
The Lagotto Romagnolo needs an active family that enjoys long hikes, swimming, and plenty of outdoor fun. This dog breed is gentle, and positive dog training needs to be geared with that in mind. Socialization should begin during the first four weeks of puppyhood, and continue throughout a dog’s life. This breed needs plenty of mental stimulation, and does well with organized canine sporting activities like agility, trails, dock diving, and obedience.
These dogs do well with detection of medical conditions, and work well as therapy dogs. These are indoor dogs that benefit from lots of TLC. They need plenty of outdoor activity. That said, the Lagotto enjoys hanging out with the family on the couch at home.
Possible Health Concerns
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 this dog’s water and food bowls. Stress is also a major factor in causing bloat. Never feed your dog a large meal, followed by exercise. At the first signs of dry vomiting, restlessness and discomfort, contact your emergency veterinarian.
Hip Dysplasia: This is a hereditary developmental disease. HD affects the Lagotto dog breed. HD occurs when the hip joint fails to develop properly. In the Lagotto with HD, 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.
Juvenile Epilepsy: This is a recessively inherited disease. In this dog breed, the symptoms occur from 5-9 weeks of age. The dog has seizures of the entire body with loss of consciousness. The seizures go away by 8-13 weeks of age.
The Lagotto Romagnolo dog breed
Exercise
The Lagotto Romagnolo is an energetic dog breed that does well with plenty of regular exercise and canine sporting activities. Keep your Lagotto mentally stimulated when out exercising. Sports like obedience training, field trials, dock diving, tracking, and agility are good options for this dog breed. Swimming at the dog beach and pool at home are also fun activities for the family.
Nutrition
Dogs should be fed the highest-quality food that’s appropriate for their age, activity level and medical conditions. Consult with your veterinarian if you need advice about which food to feed your dog.
The Lagotto Romagnolo
Grooming
The Lagotto Romagnolo has a waterproof coat that is curly. They have a double coat of hair, and shed rarely. Trimming needs to be done regularly on this dog breed. This dog breed is one of the best for allergy sufferers because they rarely shed.
Regular bathing is recommended with natural shampoos and conditioners to promote good skin and coat health. Daily tooth brushing is recommended to prevent gum disease. Twice yearly visits to the veterinarian for dental hygiene maintenance is required. Ears need to be regularly wiped out, and nails trimmed regularly to prevent pain when walking and running.
The Lagotto Romagnolo needs an active family that enjoys long hikes, swimming, and plenty of outdoor fun. This dog breed is gentle, and positive dog training needs to be geared with that in mind. This dog breed needs plenty of socialization, and positive dog training starting during puppyhood.
