The YUK Family
Halloween is the second largest commercial holiday, and when it comes to pet safety it holds first place. Common hazards are chocolate (over-indulgence on candy as well as snacking on candy wrappers) and raisins. Also, glow sticks are especially dangerous to cats so resist using them as chase-toys. And, even the snaps and buttons of pet costumes can be lethal.
There was a time when the emergency entrance to the Geisinger Medical Center was known for its poison garden. This was the era of MR. YUK. MR. YUK’S green face with its look of disgust was the symbol of poisons for area children. (The green was a shade deeper than the green now signaling danger worn by highway workers and first responders.) It’s real-life spokesman was Dr. Tom Royer who gave programs on the dangers of poisons. And, the late Lillian Edson, Benton, dubbed “Mrs Yuk”, gave advice on pets and people cases of suspected and accidental poisonings. Of course, the pair were very busy at Halloween. PETS ARE CHILDREN TOO. And, so the YUK family were the ones called by pet owners and veterinary hospital personnel. Today, we have the pet poison helpline –800.213.6680. www.petpoisonhelpline.com
The Poison Helpline is available 24 hours seven days a week. The staff provides assistance in poisoning cases of all species. The fee is $35 per incident and includes follow-up consultation.
FEEDING OR FUELING FIDO?? ARE ALL-AGE DIETS REALLY NEEDED? Again this year Rufus, the most famous colored Bull Terrier in show ring history, is making therapy dog history with his appearances. According to press releases, “Rufus is FUELED by Purina Pro Plan brand dog food!” It used to be our famous canines ate a brand of food but the verb “eating” doesn’t seem exciting in print!! Thus, Rufus is “fueled”. Does the ordinary family dog eat or fuel? Is there a special fueling food for therapy dogs? And, do our pet stores and markets have FUEL AISLES?
Look at the labels on cans and bags of pet food; except for the brand they are remarkably similar in the amount of protein, fat, etc. Pay more for Newman or Ray or less for the store brand and you will get the same quantity. It is the source of the protein and fat that makes the difference OR NOT (remember the cross-brand-recall due to contaminated protein). Also, most pet diets are targeted to “maintaining” weight or “weight-loss”. If a pet is recovering from surgery or is ill or aged and needs to gain weight the pet owner is out of options. Jean Cunningham Smith, VMD retired, Bloomsburg, advises Eukinoba Premium Performance moistened with goat’s milk for breeding/lactating bitches to increase weight and energy. Chances are that would work for an anorexic dog. Since Rufus is a senior canine, this diet could fit him, too?
It is impressive that Rufus visits the Ronald McDonald House in New York City. The Ronald McDonald House located on 73rd Street in Manhattan hosted Rufus as part of its therapy dog initiative which includes regular visits from celebrities and other famous canines. Hopefully many houses will have Canine Good Citizen- certified therapy dogs greeting trick-or-treaters this Halloween and so all will be welcome as well as safe. Maybe we should have signs reading “Happy Halloween–a Canine Good Citizen/therapy dog lives here.”
Oct 22, 2010 | | Uncategorized