bow & wow times issue no. 17 - healthy howlidays!

8/14/2019 Bow & Wow Times Issue No. 17 - Healthy Howlidays!

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Issue No. 17 www.bowandwow.com.ph

The holidays are the perfect time of the year to celebrate.For pet parents like me, one of the best ways to celebratethe season is to include my furbaby in the festivities. Frombuying doggie presents, putting up his paw-shaped Santa

stocking, and taking holiday photos with him to include inour family greeting cards, Christmas is truly merrier withour furry bundle of joy around!

Amidst all the celebration though, pet parents must takespecial caution this time of the year. Holiday hazardslurk innocently in every nook and cranny, and seeminglyharmless things like Christmas dcor could prove fatal to

our pets when accidentally ingested. Christmas parties and New Years reworks couldcause undue stress to our pets. Read through the articles on pages 7 to 9 for tips onhow to keep our pets safe and well-cared for during the holiday season.

When thinking about the ideal gift for someone on your Christmas list, pets are denitelyNOT a good idea. Though giving a cute little puppy or kitten might seem like a veryspecial and meaningful gift, owning and parenting a pet is a serious, lifelong commitmentwhich requires careful thought and deliberation. Getting a new pet is like having a new

baby it is something planned in advance and properly prepared for. Its not somethingyou can just wrap up with a ribbon and hand over to someone as a present! However,if you have truly decided on getting a new furry addition to your family this Christmas,its a great idea to visit our local animal shelters, PAWS and CARA. Adopting one (ormore!) of their beautiful and well-trained cats and dogs is a wonderful way to revel inthe spirit of the season. If youd like to help feed a homeless car or dog this Christmas,visit any Bow & Wow store.

Speaking of gifts, what is the best gift to give to our pets? New toys, nice clothes, fancycollars, plush beds, and other cute pet accessories might be appreciated more by the petparent rather than the pet. For me, nothing is better than the gift of good health. Goodnutrition in the form of all-natural food, regular wellness check-ups with a knowledgeableveterinarian, proper physical and mental stimulation, and plenty of unconditional love isthe perfect formula to make sure you raise a healthy pet from head to tail.

Happy Howlidays,

Pam So-Suarez

Brand Director

[email protected]

We digest it for pet parents... The Bow & Wow Times tracks all relevant

pet information from key websites, magazines, journals, animal research

and studies, and other credible sources. Then we summarize what is

essential for you to know in order to raise healthy and happy pets, and

become the best pet parents you can be. The Bow & Wow Times is in no

way intended to replace the knowledge and/or diagnoses of veterinary

professionals. Always consult with your veterinarian whenever a health

problem arises which requires expert care.

The Bow & Wow Times is a quarterly publication of the Healthy Options Group of Companies with

corporate offices located at #3 Economia Street corner Calle Industria, Barangay Bagumbayan,

Libis, Quezon City, 1110 and trunk line of (632)637-8888. For subscription inquiries, visit any of

our stores listed above. Bow & Wow is a trademark registered at the Philippine Patent Office.

Healthy Howlidays!

editorial staff

Christian Tanpresident

Romy Siapublisher

Pam So-Suarezeditor-in-chief

Lou Bootancirculation manager

Yanni Cardeoeditorial assistant

Ronald Cruzlayout & design

Sky Printingprinter

directoryLevel 5, Shangri-La Plazal Mall, EDSA Mandaluyong City

(632) 638-3372

Lower Ground Floor, Greenbelt 5, Makati City(632) 501-3680

Robinsons Magnolia, New Manila, Quezon City(632) 477-2963

Excelsior, Eastwood City, Quezon City(632) 650-3010

our visionto transform pet owners into pet parents

We believe dogs and cats must have the best nutrition

and health care available.

We believe dogs and cats are not toys for ouramusement; they have feelings, they are very loyal

and they need our tender loving care.

We believe the best way to acquire new pets is through

pet adoption from the animal shelters.

We are against selling dogs and cats in pet shops

which involves prolonged confnement in small cages.

We are against all forms of animal cruelty including

chaining and caging dogs.

We support the good work of organizations like

Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS), Compassion

& Responsibilities for Animals (CARA), and People for

the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA).

our values

editorspage


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2 Five Reasons Not to Give a Pet as a Christmas

Christmas is fast approaching, the time of year

when peoples attention is turning to gift giving,

and nding the perfect present for their loved

ones. At rst glance, giving a pet as a present might

seem like an incredibly special and thoughtful gift,whether that be a kitten or a puppy.

However, giving a pet as a present, even if the

person you intend to give it to has stated that

they would like one is never a good idea, for a

whole host of reasons. As a general rule, gifting

a family member or friend with a 10- to 20-year

commitment is not something one should do on

impulse.

Here are a few more things to consider.

Reason #1: The holidays are crazyenough.

The holiday season is often very busy for families.

In addition to the usual hectic daily routine of

school, work and other activities, end-of-year

festivities mean even more demands on your time

and energy. Extra shopping, cooking and cleaning

chores are usually involved, plus trimming the

tree, decorating the house, gift wrapping, parties,

overnight guests, trips away from home to visit

family and friends, and so forth.

With all that going on, the las t thing most

households need is a new puppy or kitten to

add to the commotion and stress. Nor does a

new four-legged member of the family deserve

to be introduced to a brand new, slightly scary

environment in the midst of chaos.

Five ReasonsNot to Give a Petas a Christmas Gift

Healthy Howlidays!


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Issue No. 17 www.bowandwow.com.phFive Reasons Not to Give a Pet as a Christmas Gift

A new pet requires a great deal of time and attention from his

new family. Its in everyones best interests to wait for a less busy,

exciting time of year to bring home a new dog, cat or other pet.

Reason #2: Choosing and caring for a pet is personal.

Taking on the responsibility of caring for another life is no minor

undertaking, and it is up to each and every potential pet parent to

make sure that they are ready for this challenge both in terms of

logistics such as time and money, and emotionally as well.

Moreover, choosing the right pet is a very personal process, and

it is important that every potential pet owner goes through the

process of learning, planning and judging themselves to be ready

for the challenge. Every person should select their own pet, or in

some cases, wait for the right pet to select them.

Even if the person you wish to buy for knows precisely what type

of pet and even what breed, age and sex they want, every single

animal is different, and has its own personality and temperament,

they do not come off a production line in a uniform manner! The

potential pet owner should always pick their own pet, and nd

the animal that matches their needs and appeals to them on a

personal level, something that cannot be performed for them by

a well-meaning third par ty.

Reason #3: Pets should not be surprises.

Surprising a loved one with a puppy or kitten on Christmas morning

is a romantic but usually misguided idea.

Yes, the recipient may be extremely excited and happy with a

new puppy or kitten, but unless the surprise has actually been

well researched and thoroughly planned for, it can be a risky thing

to do. Its hard to resist a warm, furry little bundle under the tree

on Christmas morning. But unless the new pet parent is wholly

committed to the idea of raising a puppy or kitten, the bloom can

come off the rose in a hurr y.

It is always best to let a prospective pet owner, no matter what

age, be very engaged every step of the way in selecting a new pet

and preparing in advance for the homecoming.

Reason #4: A pet for a child shouldnt be viewedas a new toy.

A living creature shouldnt be considered the same kind of wow

Christmas gift as, say, a new bike or the latest Xbox console.

Caring for a dog or cat is a big responsibility and far different from

getting a new toy that is taken out, played with, and put away again.

Its important to impress upon a child the difference between her

belongings and her pet, from the very rst minute a new dog or cat

enters her life.

Even if your youngster is pleading for a pet and you think he or she is

old enough to take on the responsibility, keep the pet project separate

from the holiday festivities. Adding a dog or cat to the household is

a big undertaking all on its own, so plan for it accordingly, and not

around the holidays.

Reason #5: Pet stores, backyard breeders and puppymills.

In the weeks leading up to Christmas, certain disreputable individuals

and businesses are bursting at the seams with all the latest popular

puppy models. Most of these babies are shipped in from puppy mills.

Some are healthy. Many are not. All are bred and born in inhumane,

often lthy conditions.

Every time a dog is purchased from an irresponsible breeder or mill

operator, it is incentive for those businesses to stay up and running. So

while you may give a puppy mill baby a good home for Christmas, her

mother remains back at the mill, having litter after litter until shes too

sick or old to reproduce --- at which point shes disposed of.

Since some shelters and rescue organizations shut down adoptions

this time of year to prevent problems associated with giving pets as

Christmas gifts, there is a greater tendency by people who would

ordinarily adopt to go the pet store or backyard breeder route. Please

dont be one of them. Wait until the holidays are over and visit your

local shelter or rescue organization.

Source: healthypets.mercola.com and pets4homes.co.uk

Healthy Howlida


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4 Vets Suggest Giving Pets the Gift of He

Source: upi.com

Vets Suggest

Giving Petsthe Gift of Health

The American Veterinary Medical Association reminds pet parents

the gift of good health is the best way to show your pet you

truly care .

Dr. Douglas Aspros, president of the AVMA, said pet parents love

to show their pets affection by showering them with toys, fancy

collar s and even clothes ------ spending at least $5 billion on holiday

gifts for pets during the holiday season ------ but regular veterinary

medical check-ups can detect disease ear ly and keep a pet healthy

and happy for many years.

Regular veterinary visits are important because many times pets

will hide symptoms of illness, so you need your veterinarians skill

and exper tise to keep your pets healthy, Aspros said in a statement.

Providing pets with regular preventive care is the key to a

healthy and long li fe for your pet, and it can save you hundreds

or even thousands of money by preventing or identifying

problems earlier, when they may be easier to treat and less

expensive to solve.

Nearly 90% of dog owners and 75% of cat owners indicated

in a survey by the AVMA last year that routine check-ups and

preventive care were either very or somewhat important.

However, the same study said from 2006 to 2011, the number

households not visiting the veterinarian increased by 8% for dog

owners and 24% for cat owners.

Healthy Howlidays!


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safety

Pet Grooming 101

Source: aspca.org


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4. Be Aware of Dangerous Holiday Items.

Did you know... pets can easily choke and experience serious

internal damage from snacking on cooked bones, that macadamia

nuts can cause poisoning, and that caffeine can be fatal? Do

take a pet suspected of ingesting a harmful item or substance

immediately to a veterinar ian.

5. Receive Holiday Guests Properly.

Christmas can be a busy time with visiting fr iends and relatives so

make sure your pet doesnt make an escape in the commotion.

Ensure all the excitement of having visitors doesnt distress your

pet by simply keeping an eye on them or letting them relax in

an unoccupied room.

6. Fireworks.

During the New Year, ensure that they have a safe, quiet place

inside where they arent frightened by all of the noise and where

they cannot escape through the constantly open door. A quiet,

inner room where they cant hear much of the noise from

reworks and loud bangs can help. Putting a radio or television

on in the room can also be effective. Try and make sure that the

pet isnt left alone if it is distressed.

7. Never Give a Puppy or a Kitten as a Holiday Gift.

Most often, giving a puppy or a kitten for emotional reasons

turns out badly. Love is never the problem. Who doesnt love

a furry little thing? But most people dont know how to keep a

puppy or a kitten balanced, and the puppy is going to suffer the

consequences from the rst day. In par ticular, if a person doesnt

know they are getting a puppy or a kitten, they will be in the wrong

state of mind to receive him or her. This is virtually impossible to

do if you just received a pet as a surprise!

People need to have some basic knowledge about the

commitment and responsibility of pet ownership and parenting,

and how to play a leadership role even though its a puppy or

a kitten. The beautiful part about starting with a pet is that, if

you know what to do, you are going to prevent problems. But

if you dont, you are going to create problems. We have to take

the same philosophy as adopting a chi ld. You dont just give a kidaway. You have to get the whole fami ly involved. Everyone has

to understand the responsibility they are taking on.

1. Stick to Your Usual Routine.

Even though the festive season is upon us, it is still important to

stick as closely to normal feeding and walking patterns as possible .

A change in routine can often cause pets to become anxious and

unsettled.

2. Dont Forget Rules and Boundaries!

For most of us, Christmas means lots of great food and tasty treats.

But whilst a one-off nibble on some leftovers wont do your pet

any harm, try to resist the temptation to overindulge your pet.

3. Exercise!

Its easy to slip out of your normal routine at Christmas with

endless parties and visitors. But if youre one of the millions of

pet parents, youll have no excuse for getting outside and getting

some fresh air and exercise for you and your dog.

Christmas Pet Care Advice

Christmas Pet Care AdviceWhen the season to be merry is upon us and life becomes a blur of shopping, frantic present-wrapping, and card writing, thinking about your

pets needs can become lost in the Christmas mix. Take these 7 tips to hear t, especially during the holiday season.

Source: www.dspca.ie and www.cesarsway.com

Healthy Howlida


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8 Keeping Your Pet Healthy During the Holiday Se

Keeping Your Pet Healthy

During The Holiday SeasonChocolate

Chocolate, which stimulates the nervous system and the heart, should be kept far away from

four-legged friends. Although all chocolate should be avoided, dark chocolate poses a greater

risk than sweeter varieties, such as milk chocolate, due to its higher theobromine content.

Dangerous for:

Cats dont have the same sweet tooth and arent as likely to eat dangerous quantities.

Possible symptoms:Consumption of chocolate can cause agitation, vomiting, diarrhea, high hear t

rate, tremors, seizures, and even death.

Alcohol

Fluffy might look thirsty, but keep her away from the punch and egg nog. Pets should never ingest

alcoholic beverages because alcohol depresses the nervous system.

Dangerous for:

Possible symptoms: Alcohol may cause vomiting, disorientation, diarrhea, lethargy, lack of

coordination, difculty breathing, tremors, coma, and seizures.

Tinsel and Ribbons

These shiny decorations may look pretty, but they can cause serious problems for cats and dogs.

Never wrap tinsel or ribbon around the neck of a pet, no matter how festive it looksthis is

a choking hazard.

Dangerous for:

Possible effects:If swallowed, tinsel and other decorations like ribbon can cut up the digestive

tract and cause intestinal obstruction .

Candles

Lighted candles should never be left unattended and that is even more important if left at

kittys eye level or within puppys chewing zone. An exuberant tail or a swat of a paw can turn

candles and hot wax into an instant disaster. Anchor candles securely and away from curious

faces and feet.

Dangerous for:

Healthy Howlidays!


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Issue No. 17 www.bowandwow.com.phKeeping Your Pet Healthy During the Holiday Season

Holiday Plants

Contrary to popular belief, when it comes to pets, poinsettias and Chr istmas cactus are relatively

harmless; if ingested, these plants may cause an irritating reaction in the mouths of dogs and

especially cats. Mistletoe and holly, however, can be toxic if ingested in large quantities.

Dangerous for:

Possible symptoms:Mistletoe and holly may cause vomiting, diarrhea, and heart arrhythmia in

both cats and dogs.

Electrical Cords

Some animals love to chew electrical cords, and all the additional lights strung up around the house

present a new hazard. To protect pets, turn off lights and unplug them when you arent home.

Dangerous for:

Possible symptoms:If chewed, live electrical cords can cause burns in or around a pets mouth,

difculty breathing, seizures, and cardiac arrest.

Christmas Tree

There are plenty of danger s surrounding a Chr istmas tree. The tree should always be proper ly

secured, and fragile glass ornaments should be kept off low-lying branches to avoid losing family

favorites if your pet decides to play. If your cat is prone to climbing, leave ornaments off the tree

for a few days to see if he will attempt to climb it.

Dangerous for:

Source: realsimple.com and healthypet.com

The Holiday Rush

The bustle of the holiday season may be exciting for your family, but constant visitors and

activity can be confusing and stressful for pets. Make sure your furry friends have a safe, quiet

space to retreat to.

Dangerous for:

Possible effects: Stress may show up as stomach discomfort, diarrhea, and irritability. Stress can

have an impact on both cats and dogs. Old or sick pets may be more sensitive to extra activity and

a change of routine .

Healthy Howlida

Bones

The holiday turkey or chicken will leave a lot of tantalizing bones, but dont feed them to your pet.

Dangerous for:

Possible symptoms:Small bones or bone chips can get lodged in the throat, stomach and intestinal tract.


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10 Dog Nutrition: A

ApplesAll the stuff in apples that makes them nutritional

powerhouses for humans (ber, Vitamins A and C,

Omega 3 and 6, antioxidants, avonoids, polyphenols)

works wonders for Rover, too with a few exceptions.

The seeds contain a form of cyanide, which human

systems can lter out but our four-legged friends

cant, and too many apples can lead to diarrhea or,

even weight gain.

BonesDespite popular images, not every bone is good

for Fido. Note that easily-splintered poultry bones

and improperly prepared beef and pork bones are

particularly dangerous for dogs.

Canned vs. Dry FoodCanned food tend to have higher-quality protein, and

more of it, as well as fewer preser vatives and llers.

On the other hand, the dry food sold by reputable

companies are just as nutritionally balanced as their

wet counterparts. Kibble lets dogs satisfy their urge

to chew, and its good for knocking tartar off of teeth.

But some dogs have delicate gums or are missing

teeth, which means, yes, that wet food is the way to

go. Dry food tends to be less expensive and is easier

to store, but wet food usually have fewer calories and

carbohydrates. What to do? Go with what suits you

and your pets lifestyle, but always pick nutritionally

balanced food, the highest quality you can afford.

Drink!Dogs should drink about an ounce of water per

pound of body weight daily, and of course always have

fresh, clean water available. Pooches usually regulate

their own intake; if you notice changes in drinking

habits, see your vet.

EggsLoaded with protein and a host of vitamins and

minerals, eggs provide blue ribbonworthy luxurious

coats. Are raw eggs OK? Some say no, citing concerns

of salmonella poisoning and a biotin deficiency

caused by a substance in whites, while others say

yes, noting that salmonella is fairly rare in dogs and

the yolks contain enough biotin to overcome any

deciency. Bottom line: If youre worried, go ahead

and cook them.

FishFish is an excellent source of protein for Scooter

and can be a lifesaver for dogs with meat allergies.

Although some raw-diet enthusiasts recommend

sushi and even the occasional whole raw sh, there

are parasites that can be extremely harmful that

cooking quickly destroys.

GrainsGrains are an important part of a balanced doggie

diet, and rice especially can be a godsend for a pup

with digestive woes who needs a bland diet for a

few days. That said, the gluten in wheat is a noted

allergen for somesymptoms include itchy skin and

ear inammation so food containing oats and bar ley

may work better. If you suspect food allergies of any

type, see your vet.

How Much and How Often to FeedIf dogs ran the world, the Canine Caf would be

open 24 hours a day. Most dogs love to eat, and

eat, and eat some more. But though its tempting

to show your love with extra helpings , or by making

food available all day, overfeeding does no dog any

favors. There is no precise answer as far as how much

to feed a dog, because calor ic needs vary with size,

A toZDog Nutrition:

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NutsNever give your dog walnuts or macadamia nuts!

Both are extremely poisonous for pups. Cashews

and peanuts are better, but nuts in general are salty

and high in calories and phosphorous which can lead

to bladder stones in dogs.

Organic FoodThinking of going organic with your best friends diet?

Here are a few things to keep in mind: Organic food

often use human-grade protein sources and generally

have fewer llers (corn and wheat and their by-

products) and no synthetic preservatives, pesticides,

food coloring, or other additivesthereby reducing

the number of potential allergens in your dogs diet.

They typically contain whole grains instead of bulk

llers, which aid in weight control and digestive health,

and boast superior nutritional quality, which can

reduce skin irritation and boost coat sheen.

PumpkinThis festive gourd is a miracle food for dogs. Good

for both diarrhea and constipation, canned pumpkin

is loaded with ber and beta-carotene, which the

body conver ts to Vitamin A. Dont give Buddy a lot

of it though, too much A is highly toxic to dogs

but a couple of teaspoons a day for little pups, or

a couple of tablespoons for big boys, should keep

them right on track.

Quick tipTo keep Scruffy from chewing on electrical wires,

make them unpalatable by coating them with a

mixture of bitter lime or, rubbing alcohol and hot

sauce.

Raw MeatPristine raw meat would be a marvelous source of

quality protein for Spike. However, the meat most

of us have access to just isnt pristine. Salmonella is

a major concern, especially in raw poultry, and allraw meat carries the risk of microbes and parasites,

including E. coli. While many do feed their dogs raw

meat to no ill effect, take care to purchase the highest

quality available. If you go this route, be sure your

ingredients are absolutely fresh, watch out for bones ,

and keep a close eye on your pals total needs.

Dog Nutrition: A to Z

age, and activity level. One rule of thumb is that if

Sir Barksalot is energetic and keeping his gure trim,

hes probably eating the right amount.

How often should you feed your pal? Morning and

evening meals are recommended for adult dogs.

Twice-daily feedings make it easy to monitor your

dogs intake, and thus his health, since dogs who are

not feeling well tend to drop their routines.

Ice CreamDogs are generally lactose intolerant, yet for some

reason they love dairy products. A spoonful of ice

creamor frozen yogurt, which has less lactose than

ice creamevery now and then shouldnt bother

Barney.

JerkyThe FDA has cautioned against feeding dogs chicken

jerky from China. Some U.S . companies issued

voluntary recalls of jerky treats because of fears of

melamine-tainted gluten, also from China. But there

are lots of safe jerkies, and dogs go wild for it.

KibbleMaking your own kibble is a great way to monitor

ingredients for fillers, preservatives, and other

additives, and to tailor your dogs food to his specic

likes and needs. Kibble lasts a long time in the freezer.Remember, though, that dogs have specic nutr itional

needs, so do your research well.

Labels...and How to Read ThemIf you want to be sure youre feeding your dog the

best canned or dried food, you need to carefully

read the label. Ingredients are listed in descending

order, according to how much they make up the

total food mix.

Moldy FoodYour dog should be the only thing sprouting fur in

the kitchen, but dont freak out if J iggs gets at some

old bread. Turns out a little mold wont hur t him. Still,

like humans, dogs can have mold allergies, and some

molds can cause very ser ious problems, so keep the

lid rmly on the trash can.

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12 Dog Nutrition: A

SupplementsKeep in mind that minerals, especially, should

never be given to pups unless prescribed by a vet.

Calcium, so good for human bones, actually hinders

bone formation and can damage maturing joints

and cartilage in puppies, and too much zinc can be

toxic. Vitamin A can damage blood vessels; excess Dcan lead to muscle atrophy. Also, supplements can

interact with or hinder absorption of vital nutrients

in foods or reduce the efficacy of prescribed

medications.

TreatsWhos a good dog? Every single one of them, and

they all deser ve a treat now and again. And thats the

key: now and again. A cornerstone of many training

methods, treats provide almost as much joy to the

giver as to the recipient. But unfor tunately, like most

wonderful things in life, they come with a catch. Evenhealthy snacks have calories, so make sure you count

goodie calories as part of your pups daily intake.

When choosing snacks, keep your dogs par ticular

nutritional needs and dietary restrictions in mind,

along with his avor preferences.

Use a Measuring CupAlas, humans arent the only animals getting wider, and

obesity in dogs leads to the same kinds of problems

that it does in us: diabetes, increased cancer risk,

and liver diseaseto say nothing of the toll it takes

on joints. One solution, along with lots of exercise,is strict food portion control. Use a measuring cup.

Serving sizes recommended on packaging are just

guidelines. If Spot is packing on the pounds while

eating the recommended amount, use a smaller

measuring cup.

Vegetarian DietsEven the most committed vegetarians and vegans

must allow that dogs are true omnivores who der ive

essential nutrientsnot just proteinfrom meat.

That doesnt mean that there arent healthy, thriving,

vegetarian dogs. Theyre healthy and thriving becausetheir conscient ious owners make a concerted effor t

to ensure their pups are gett ing from other sources

what theyd traditionally get from meat. For example ,

dogs get essential amino acids from meat; a vegetarian

dog will need to get these from quality supplements.

And about that protein? Eggs are a terr ic non-meat

source of protein, and dogs love them. For vegans,

there are lentils and legumes and brown rice , as well

as supplements for vegan diets. Whichever route you

govegetarian or veganyou must keep your vet

informed, so she can head off any vitamin or other

nutritional deciencies at the pass.

Weight MattersObesity is the most serious medical problem facing

dogs in the today. Scientists delicately advise owners

to look for things like a slight increase in the fat over

the rib cage, an unusually rounded abdomen, or subtly

jiggl ing ank folds as signs that a dog is moderately

overweight. But of course what theyre saying, in

essence, is that deciding whether Snowy is headed

for maximum density comes down to a common-

sense assessment.

X: as in, Banned!This is by no means an exhaustive list, but here aresome common people food that should never be

dog food: avocados, alcohol, baking soda and powder,

caffeine, chives, chocolate, corn cobs, fruit pits and

seeds, garlic, grapes, macadamia nuts and walnuts, milk

and milk-based products, mushrooms, nutmeg (and

other spices), onions, raisins, rhubarb leaves, tomatoes

(especially stems and leaves), xylitol (found in many

candies and gums), and yeast dough.

YuccaA natural wonder for the canine wor ld, when yucca

root is steeped into liquid or ground to a powder and

added to Blackies food (just 1/4 teaspoon or so), it

helps soothe tender joints, anddue to its substantial

anti-inammatory powersalleviates pain associated

with hip dysplasia and arthritis. It also eases digestive

problems and can calm itchy skin caused by allergies.

Grind it yourself or get the root or supplements at

health food stores or online. As with any natural aids,

ask your vet about interactions with prescription

medications and specic dosage.

Zinc

If your otherwise healthy best friend eats a balanced

diet, she shouldnt need zinc supplements. But even

avoiding the supplements doesnt mean zinc toxicity

cant occur; it does, especially in puppies, who eat

everything. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, and

anemia, which can be diagnosed only by your vet. Left

untreated, zinc toxicity can lead to kidney failure .

Source: cesarsway.com

Healthy Howlidays!


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Issue No. 17 www.bowandwow.com.phHow to Celebrate Christmas with Pets

healthy from head to tHealthy Howlida

As Christmas approaches, were all rushing around nding the

perfect gifts, decorating our homes and planning our festivefeasts. But if youre a pet parent, its important to remember your

furbabies and make sure that you keep them safe and happy.

Read on for tips and advice on looking after your pet this

Christmas, plus a few inventive ways to involve them in your

celebrations.

1. Make Christmas cards and picturesTake Christmas photos of your pets to include in cards. Dress

up your pets in holiday gear, or just put a Santa hat on them.

No matter what your picture looks like , people will enjoy seeing

your furbabies in their cards.

2. Have professional photos doneThese make great additions to your photo collection of your

pet. They can also be sent out along with your Chr istmas cards.

3. Make Christmas treats for your petJust as you cook for family dur ing Christmas, dont forget your

pet! There are numerous types of homemade treats you can

How to Celebrate Christmas with Petscook for cer tain pets like dogs and cats. While youre cooking

up your familys goodies, add a few extra minutes and bakesome desser ts for your dogs. If you cant nd premixed i tems

just be sure to use pet-safe ingredients such as yogur t, peanut

butter and carob. Never use chocolate.

4. Buy presents for your petsThere are thousands of ideas for your pets Christmas present

From specialty dog biscuits with holiday icing to Christmas

collars, your pet can have the excitement of having their

own presents on Christmas day. Make sure to remember the

stockings, as well. Toys and treats make great stocking stuffer

ideas. Purchase things that will excite your pet, such as new

toys or catnip for cats .

5. Keep your pets safeMake sure that any poisonous Christmas plants are kept out of

reach. Be sure that any Christmas tree decorations are kept away

from your pets, as well. Small items can cause choking if eaten

so make sure they are out of reach. Make sure certain chocolate

items are away from pets, since chocolate is dangerous for dogs

and most other pets.

Source: ehow.com and johnlewis-insurance.com


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14

PersonalityHimmies, as fanciers call them, are perfect indoor cat companions.

They are gentle, calm, and sweet-tempered, but they possess a

playful side as well. Like the Siamese, Himalayans love to play

fetch, and a scrap of crumpled paper or a kitty toy will entertain

them for hours.

Himalayans are devoted and dependent upon their humans for

companionship and protection. They crave affection and love tobe petted and groomed, which is fortunate, since every Himalayan

owner will spend part of each day doing just that.

Like their Persian siblings, they are docile and wont harass you

for attention the way some breeds will. More vocal and active

than the Persian, they never theless are much quieter than the

Siamese.

Breed Spot

HistoryThe rst deliberate cross between a Siamese and a Persian was

made in 1924 by a Swedish geneticist, but it wasnt until 1935

that the r st pointed pattern longhair was born.

British fanciers formed a breeders club, hoping to produce

a pointed pattern breed with the Persian hair type and

conformation. Breeders in America showed interest in the same

goal.

World War II inter fered with the breeding program, both in

Europe and in the United States. Finally, in 1950, American breeder

Marguerita Goforth succeeded in creating the long awaited

Persian-like colorpoint. The CFA and the ACFA recognized the

breed in 1957 under the name Himalayan, named for the color

pattern found in other animals, such as the Himalayan rabbit. By

1961, all major U.S. cat associations recognized the Himalayan.

Himalayan Cat

Source: animal.discovery.com

Healthy Howlidays!

RATING OF CHARACTERISTICS

Activity level

Playfulness

Need for attention

Affection toward its owner

VocalityDocility

Intelligence

Independence

Healthiness and hardiness

Need for grooming

Compatibility with children

Compatibility with other pets


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Q: Does my dog need vitamins?

A. Most dogs receive a complete and balanced diet --- including

necessary vitamins and minerals --- from commercially processed

dog food, according to the FDA. Dogs fed a homemade diet may

need supplements. Its absolutely critical, but it should be doneto match the diet. You cant just create a meal and give your

dog a vitamin. Check with a veterinarian or nutritionist for help

in determining what, if anything, is needed.

Q: How much water does my cat need?

A. As your cat consumes more calories and produces more

metabolic waste, he needs more water to maintain his body

temperature. In general, an adult cat should drink roughly the

same amount of water (in milliliters) as the number of kilocalories

eaten per day. Dry cat food contains 7 -12% water, while canned

food can measure up to 80% water. Cats who eat only dry fooddont get as much water from their food as those who eat canned

food, and should always have easy access to clean, drinking water

to supplement their intake.

Healthy Howlida

Q: My dog is really gassy. What causes

atulence?A. Dogs that often pass gas can embarrass or distress their

owners. The most common cause of atulence is swallowing

large amounts of air while gulping food. The next is eating

highly fermentable foods such as beans, cauliower, cabbage

and soybeans. Flatulence also occurs with malabsorption

syndromes. The excess gas is related to incomplete digestion of

carbohydrates. Boxers are renowned for atulence problems. A

sudden bout of atulence, accompanied by abdominal discomfort

loss of appetite, or diarrhea, is an indication to seek veterinary

attention.

Q: How can I tell if my cat is too fat?

A. You do a body condition score. Look down at your cat. You

should be able to see a waist when you look down on it from

the top, or when you run your hands from its ribs to its hips

Run your hand along its abdomen from its ribs to its pelvis and

it should be indented.

If you put your hands on the side of its chest, you should be

able to feel its ribs without a thick layer of fat over them. There

are charts that show this. You can nd them onlinemost pet

food sites have body condition scoring charts. Ask at yourveterinarians ofce and they can show you the chart and help

you evaluate where your cat falls.

Ask The Vet

By : Ma. Mylene L. Maranan, DVM

Bow & Wow resident veterinarian

Ask the et

Send in your Ask The Vet questions to: [email protected]


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18 Five Ways a Pets Diet Can Impact Their He

As most of the millions of pet parents can attest to, a sick pet

can end up costing a lot of money. Whether the pet has a short

term illness or a chronic one, it can mean multiple trips to the

veterinarian. The good news is that there are things that people

can do in order to help their pets live a healthier, happier life. A

great place to start is by taking a look at their diet, which can have

a tremendous impact on their pets health.

People often dont realize just how important the quality of food

is that they feed their pets. Yet it is something that is done every

day and helps in nearly every aspect of the pets well-being. The

pets diet is so important and should not be overlooked.

Just as diet impacts human health, so too does it impact the health

of the millions of cats and dogs that people have as pets around the

world. An unhealthy diet prevents pets from getting the nutrition

they need in order to be healthy. Here are ve ways a pets diet

can impact their health:

1. Allergies & SensitivitiesIts common for cats and dogs to suffer from irritable bowel

syndrome and inammatory bowel disease. Some of the items in

food that you should avoid include things like corn, soy, dyes, and

preservatives.

2. Weight IssuesJust like people, dogs and cats have an issue with obesity. Some of

the factors that contribute to this include being overfed, being given

too many treats or being fed people food. Weight problems can

lead to numerous other health and quality of life issues.

3. Urinary Tract ProblemsMany pets experience urinary tract problems, including stones or

crystals, and inammation and infection. Pets tend to do better eating

canned food that contains more water content that also usually contain

more meat.

4. DiabetesThe dogs and cats that are overweight are also more prone to

developing diabetes, which can lead to a variety of quality of life and

health issues on its own.

5. Dental ConcernsPets who are not eating a healthy diet can also suffer from dental

problems, such as periodontal disease. While many people buy dry

pet food because it is more cost effective, it can tend to be harder on

the teeth for many cats and dogs.

People often give the lower quality pet foods to their cats and dogs

because it is cheaper. But in the long run it is not cheaper, not when you

add in the health problems that can arise. Better quality food can help

your pet avoid being sick and having more visits with the veterinarian.

When its time to switch your dog or cat to a new food, plan to do

it over the course of several weeks even when youre changing to ahigher quality food. It makes the transition easier if you mix the higher

quality food with their original food, increasing the amount each day

until your pet is eating just the higher quality food.

Look for brand that more closely ts your pets natural diet high in

meat and protein with no llers or by products. Food such as rendered

animal fats, corn, soy, wheat, sugar, and articial avors and preservatives,

all of which can be difcult for a pets digestive system.

Source: chicagonow.com

Healthy Howlidays!

Five Ways a Pets Diet can Impact Their Health


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5. Sweet potatoesThe sweetness is attractive to dogs, an

the high ber can help settle an upse

stomach.

6. YogurtWorks well for dogs in small amounts, dont go

overboard, as a lot of dogs have problems

digesting milk-based products and may get

the runs.

7. CranberriesAs in humans, cranberries can promote

urinary tract health in dogs and cats.

8. GingerGingerbread and ginger snap cookies are great treats for dogs, an

like pumpkin and sweet potatoes, can help calm a nervous dog

stomach.

9. FishCanned sh, like tuna, is ne to share with you

kitty in small portions. Though your felin

will probably try to beg for a bigger bite

it is important to keep it small. Th

will prevent your cat from ingesting to

much mercur y, fatty acids and magnesium

which can cause health problems. Your furr

friends diet should never solely consist o

canned sh.

10. BananasIf youve got a crazy cat, you can make it even

more bananas by feeding them the actual

fruit. Frozen bananas are a safe snack to feed

your cat and dog if it has that craving. As

with the other non-meat products on this

list, bananas should be fed to your pets only

in small portions.

Keep in mind that just like humans, pets can overeat over the

holidays, especially when their adopted humans go overboard o

snacks and treats. Work some of these treats into their regula

diets and theyll enjoy the holiday food just as much as you do!

With holiday goodies on all our plates this time of year, dont forget that dogs and cats like extra treats too.

1. Lean meats

Like humans, dogs relax after a taste oftryptophan, a chemical found in turkey that

makes everyone sleepy after their holiday

meals. Dogs also love chicken and beef.

Similarly, serving deli meats such as turkey,

ham and chicken can be a delicious way to

snazz up your cats meals. It is important to

check any meat you plan on feeding your pet

for preservatives, avorings and other additives.

Additionally, portions should be kept small and used only as a

snack, not as your felines main source of food.

2. Green vegetablesEven if your kids dont, dogs love green

veggies, and will gladly eat them when

they get them from you. A cats diet is

dependent on protein, but sometimes they

get a craving for veggies. If you notice your

cat chomping on house plants, try feeding i t

a small portion of steamed broccoli. This

could satisfy their desire for greens and keep them

away from potentially toxic house plants. Veggies, like plants and

grass, can also help your cat clear up digestive troubles. If you are

interested in keeping your cat on a vegetarian diet full-time, you

should talk it over with your vet before making the switch. Spinach

can be a good way to go, especially when you are trying to help

your pet relieve tummy troubles. Spinach should not be fed to cats

with a history of urinary or kidney problems, since

the calcium oxalates in the leaf can form crystals

in the urinary tract.

3. Chicken and beef vegetable stewsare loaded with vitamins and minerals and not

only make good treats, but can be used as a

topping for other foods.

4. Canned pumpkinPumpkin is also a good natural calmative

for upset stomachs and diarrhea. Get the

fresh, natural pumpkin, because pumpkin

pie lling might be a bit too sweet for dogs

stomachs.

Top 10 Healthy Holiday Treats for Your Furbaby

Top 10 Healthy Holiday Treats for Your Furbaby

Source: animalanddiscovery.com

Healthy Howlida


22/24

20 Holiday Pet Photos Made

Source: sheknows.com

Healthy Howlidays!

Theres something about the holidays that makes people want to

pull out the camera or hire a photographer and get a great family

picture --- and for families with beloved pets, they want to make

sure their four-legged family members are included as well! Here

are four tips for getting a great holiday photo with your pets.

Pick a photographer who is pet-friendly

If youre having a professional photograph taken with your pets this

holiday season, do some research and nd a photographer who is

pet-friendly or experienced with taking photographs of pets -- it

can make all the difference when making your pet feel comfortable

and getting a good shot. Dont forget to let your photographer

know that youll be including pets in your photos to make sure

theyre prepared!

Pick the right time of day

Before you get a holiday photograph with your pet, consider the

time of day youre taking the picture. If your kitty naps all afternoon,

get your picture taken in the morning, when shes bright-eyed and

bushy-tailed. If you have a spunky new puppy that youd like in this

years holiday photo, naptime might be the perfect time to take

the photograph, when hell be a little less wiggly and may actually

hold still for the picture.

Familiar settings are best

Theres no doubt that the absolute best place to get a good pet

picture is at home, where they are most comfortable. You can never

predict how your pet will react if you take them to a studio to have

a photograph taken, and a nervous kitty or dog can certainly ruin a

picture session quickly. Most photographers are happy to come to your

home, often for no additional charge, and it will be so much easier to

get a good holiday picture with your pet. Taking pictures at home is

also a perfect option if you want your pet to be in some pictures but

not every single one -- you can quickly pull your pet into a few shots

and then let them go on their way.

Consider an action shot

If you want a really great holiday photograph that includes your pet,

realize that having them sit still next to your replace or Christmas

tree may not be the best way to truly capture their personality. Instead,

head to the park or your backyard and take some photos of your pet

in their element -- running around and having fun! Before you tackle

this idea, talk it over with your photographer to make sure theyre

prepared for getting a great action shot of your family with your pet.

Holiday Pet Photos Made Easy


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bow & wow times issue no. 17 - healthy howlidays!

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