Know the Product Before Using Coupons
Recently a local newspaper enclosed coupons worth $5.00 on Hartz products. There is a $3 savings on a tick and flea guard for puppies and dogs. One local pet owner who used this product reported that their pet died and they feel the product was to blame. If they are right, then there should be a recall. But, more likely they may not have read the instructions carefully or perhaps the death had another cause completely unrelated to the product use.
According to Veterinarian John Tegzes, THE NUMBER ONE POISON FOUND IN THE HOME ARE HUMAN MEDICATIONS!! A pill dropped on the floor or even an easy-to-reach bottle can kill your pet!
Because tick and flea medications are poisons they should be purchased from your veterinary hospital–not even over the counter or by mail. For example–did you know that flea and tick shampoos can be fatal to your pet, according to toxicologist Tegzes? Only your vet knows the possible interactions these products have with other medications your pet may be taking and how they will affect your pet given his or her age and weight. Dr. Tegzes spoke on an AKC Canine Health Foundation podcast. The toxicologist also debunked the myth that poinsettias are poisonous to dogs (not cats) and told the audience that the toxic effect of chocolate depends on the type and amount of chocolate consumed (dark baking chocolate is most toxic) . The symptoms of a poison are a change in behavior and depend both on the poison and the dog. Poisons result in behavior changes such as continuous vomiting, and tremors can begin almost immediately or two to four days later. If you suspect poison see your veterinarian and collect the substance and the container for his diagnosis. The Poison Control Hotline number is 888-426-4435 and there is a fee.
BUCKS FOR BILLBOARDS
Due to the economy there seem to be many empty billboards across the country. Western dog organizations worked a deal with a local billboard company to send a message about the dangers of the animal rights movement. They bought billboards and simply added exposeanimalrights.com. Now even large organizations have joined this new form of communication .
WATCH FOR SEPTEMBER RDOs
Watch for announcements of local dog organization events celebrating Responsible Dog Ownership (RDO). The closest event in this part of Pennsylvania is being held in Scranton.
KILLER DOGS
The pack of dogs that allegedly killed the elderly couple were “wild dogs”. According to Dr. Alan Beck, wild dogs rarely attack humans–like other wild animals, they are shy and prefer to be left alone. It has been theorized that these dogs were owned by a hoarder. This is much more believable. Interestingly enough, none of the dogs weighed over 35 pounds and none were identified as “pit bulls”, shepherds, Rottweilers or any specific breed.
We must teach dog bite prevention to the elderly as well as to children.