Keep it local Keep it Austin.

I hear this time and time again and now my associates are driving it home more than ever. Please check out my Austin City Paws blog on my page. Here is the link; http://wwwaustincitypawscom.blogspot.com/

HOW TO HANDLE THE LOSS OF A PET

Several friends requested that I send this your way again.

Gerry austincitypaws.com

“How to Handle the Loss of a Pet”

When a pet dies, you must choose how to handle its remains. Sometimes, in the midst of grief, it may seem easiest to leave the pet at the clinic for disposal.

Check with your clinic to find out whether there is a fee for such disposal. Some shelters also accept such remains, though many charge a fee for disposal.

If you prefer a more formal option, several are available. Home burial is a popular choice, if you have sufficient property for it. It is economical and enables you to design your own funeral ceremony at little cost. However, city regulations usually prohibit pet burials, and this is not a good choice for renters or people who move frequently.

To many, a pet cemetery provides a sense of dignity, security, and permanence. Owners appreciate the serene surroundings and care of the gravesite. Cemetery costs vary depending on the services you select, as well as upon the type of pet you have. Cremation is a less expensive option that allows you to handle your pet's remains in a variety of ways: bury them (even in the city), scatter them in a favorite location, place them in a columbarium, or even keep them with you in a decorative urn (of which a wide variety are available).

Check with your veterinarian, pet shop, or phone directory for options available in your area. Consider your living situation, personal and religious values, finances, and future plans when making your decision. It's also wise to make such plans in advance, rather than hurriedly in the midst of grief.

What should I tell my children?

You are the best judge of how much information your children can handle about death and the loss of their pet. Don't underestimate them, however.You may find that, by being honest with them about your pet's loss, you may be able to address some fears and misperceptions they have about death.

Honesty is important. If you say the pet was "put to sleep," make sure your children understand the difference between death and ordinary sleep. Never say the pet "went away," or your child may wonder what he or she did to make it leave, and wait in anguish for its return.That also makes it harder for a child to accept a new pet. Make it clear that the pet will not come back, but that it is happy

and free of pain. Never assume a child is too young or too old to grieve. Never criticize a child for tears, or tell them to "be strong" or not to feel sad.

Be honest about your own sorrow; don't try to hide it, or children may feel required to hide their grief as well. Discuss the issue with the entire family, and give everyone a chance to work through their grief at their own pace.

Will my other pets grieve?

Pets observe every change in a household, and are bound to notice the absence of a companion. Pets often form strong attachments to one another, and the survivor of such a pair may seem to grieve for its companion. Cats grieve for dogs, and dogs for cats.

You may need to give your surviving pets a lot of extra attention and love to help them through this period. Remember that, if you are going to introduce a new pet, your surviving pets may not accept the newcomer right away, but new bonds will grow in time. Meanwhile, the love of your surviving pets can be wonderfully healing for your own grief.

Should I get a new pet right away?

Generally, the answer is no. One needs time to work through grief and loss before attempting to build a relationship with a new pet. If your emotions are still in turmoil, you may resent a new pet for trying to "take the place" of the old - for what you really want is your old pet back. Children in particular may feel that loving a new pet is "disloyal" to the previous pet.

When you do get a new pet, avoid getting a "look a like" pet, which makes comparisons all the more likely. Don't expect your new pet to be "just like" the one you lost, but allow it to develop its own personality. Never give a new pet the same name or nickname as the old.Avoid the temptation to compare the new pet to the old one: It can be hard to remember that your beloved companion also caused a few problems when it was young!

A new pet should be acquired because you are ready to move forward and build a new relationship - rather than looking backward and mourning your loss.When you are ready, select an animal with whom you can build another long, loving relationship-because this is what having a pet is all about!

Anyone who considers a pet a beloved friend, companion, or family member knows the intense pain that accompanies the loss of that friend. Following are some tips on coping with that grief, and with the

difficult decisions one faces upon the loss of a pet.

Am I crazy to hurt so much?

Intense grief over the loss of a pet is normal and natural. Don't let anyone tell you that it's silly, crazy, or overly sentimental to grieve!

During the years you spent with your pet (even if they were few), it became a significant and constant part of your life. It was a source of comfort and companionship, of unconditional love and acceptance, of fun and joy. So don't be surprised if you feel devastated by the loss of such a relationship.

People who don't understand the pet/owner bond may not understand your pain. All that matters, however, is how you feel. Don't let others dictate your feelings:They are valid, and may be extremely painful. But remember, you are not alone:Thousands of pet owners have gone through the same feelings.

What can I expect to feel?

Different people experience grief in different ways. Besides your sorrow and loss, you may also experience the following emotions:

• Guilt may occur if you feel responsible for your pet's death - the "if only I had been more careful" syndrome. It is pointless and often erroneous to burden yourself with guilt for the accident or illness that claimed your pet's life, and only makes it more difficult to resolve your grief.

• Denial makes it difficult to accept that your pet is really gone. It's hard to imagine that your pet won't greet you when you come home, or that it doesn't need its evening meal. Some pet owners carry this to extremes, and fear their pet is still alive and suffering somewhere. Others find it hard to get a new pet for fear of being "disloyal" to the old.

• Anger may be directed at the illness that killed your pet, the driver of the speeding car, the veterinarian who "failed" to save its life. Sometimes it is justified, but when carried to extremes, it distracts you from the important task of resolving your grief.

• Depression is a natural consequence of grief, but can leave you powerless to cope with your feelings. Extreme depression robs you of motivation and energy, causing you to dwell upon your sorrow.

What can I do about my feelings?

The most important step you can take is to be honest about your feelings. Don't deny your pain, or your feelings of anger and guilt. Only by examining

and coming to terms with your feelings can you begin to work through them.

You have a right to feel pain and agrief! Someone you loved has died, and you feel alone and bereaved.You have a right to feel anger and guilt, as well. Acknowledge your feelings first, then ask yourself whether the circumstances actually justify them.

Locking away grief doesn't make it go away. Express it. Cry, scream, pound the floor, talk it out. Do what helps you the most. Don't try to avoid grief by not thinking about your pet; instead, reminisce about the good times.This will help you understand what your pet's loss actually means to you.

Some find it helpful to express their feelings and memories in poems, stories, or letters to the pet. Other strategies including rearranging your schedule to fill in the times you would have spent with your pet; preparing a memorial such as a photo collage; and talking to others about your loss.

Who can I talk to?

If your family or friends love pets, they'll understand what you're going through. Don't hide your feelings in a misguided effort to appear strong and calm! Working through your feelings with another person is one of the best ways to put them in perspective and find ways to handle them. Find someone you can talk to about how much the pet meant to you and how much you miss it - someone you feel comfortable crying and grieving with.

If you don't have family or friends who understand, or if you need more help, ask your veterinarian or humane association to recommend a pet loss counselor or support group. Check with your church or hospital for grief counseling. Remember, your grief is genuine and deserving of support.

Euthanasia: When is the “right” time?

Your veterinarian is the best judge of your pet's physical condition; however, you are the best judge of the quality of your pet's daily life. If a pet has a good appetite, responds to attention, seeks its owner's company, and participates in play or family life, many owners feel that this is not the time. However, if a pet is in constant pain, undergoing difficult and stressful treatments that aren't helping greatly, unresponsive to affection, unaware of its surroundings, and uninterested in life, a caring pet owner will probably choose to end the beloved companion's suffering.

Evaluate your pet's health honestly and unselfishly with your veterinarian. Prolonging a pet's suffering in order to prevent your own ultimately helps neither of you. Nothing can make this decision an easy or painless one, but it is truly the final act of love that you can make for your pet.

Should I stay during euthanasia?

Many feel this is the ultimate gesture of love and comfort you can offer your pet. Some feel relief and comfort themselves by staying:They were able to see that their pet passed peacefully and without pain, and that it was truly gone. For many, not witnessing the death (and not seeing the body) makes it more difficult to accept that the pet is really gone. However, this can be traumatic, and you must ask yourself honestly whether you will be able to handle it. Uncontrolled emotions and tears -though natural - are likely to upset your pet.

Some clinics are more open than others to allowing the owner to stay during euthanasia. Some veterinarians are also willing to euthanize a pet at home. Others have come to an owner's car to administer the injection.Again, consider what will be least traumatic for you and your pet, and discuss your desires and concerns with your veterinarian. If your clinic is not able to accommodate your wishes, request a referral.

How much would you spend on your dog

Even in times of a down economy, People are still spending big bucks on their favorite friends

Keep in mind we spend billion each year on our pets,

Check it out http://cbs5.com/video/?id=57094@kpix.dayport.com

Dog Influenza

So, you think you are the only one that can get the flu ? Dog owners listen up; Canine influenza (Dog Flu) is a highly contagious respiratory infection of dogs caused by a novel influenza virus that is believed to have occurred in racing greyhounds in 2004. The virus is a mutated form of the Equine (horse) flu. Many specialized veterinarians believe the virus mutated due to over and improper use of the vaccine developed for the equine virus. This is one of the few viruses that have "jumped" species, going from equine to canine. At present there is no evidence to show that dogs can infect humans.

Like influenza viruses that infect other mammals, canine influenza virus causes an acute respiratory infection in dogs. It is one of several viruses and bacteria that are associated with canine infectious respiratory disease, or what is commonly referred to as "kennel cough." Because canine influenza is a novel virus to the canine population, dogs lack preexisting immunity to the virus. Virtually all dogs that are exposed become infected with the virus; and approximately 80% develop clinical signs of disease. The 20% of infected dogs that do not exhibit clinical signs of disease can still spread the infection. The virus is most likely to spread in facilities where dogs are housed together and where there is a high turnover of dogs in and out of the facility. As with other respiratory pathogens, the virus is spread primarily by direct contact with infected dogs and by aerosols generated by coughing and sneezing. The virus can also contaminate kennel surfaces, food and water bowls, collars and leashes, and the hands and clothing of the people who handle infected dogs. Fortunately, the virus is easily made inactive by washing with soap and water, or the use of a 5% bleach solution to clean the facilities. Unlike human influenza, canine influenza is not a "seasonal" infection, but can occur year round.

Canine influenza cannot be diagnosed by clinical signs because all of the other respiratory pathogens cause similar signs of coughing, sneezing and nasal discharge. Canine influenza virus causes clinical disease that mimics kennel cough. As a result, infection with the virus is frequently mistaken for infections of kennel cough. A full serological workup is required to definitively diagnose canine influenza.

The majority of infected dogs (80%) exhibit the mild form of canine influenza. In the mild form, the most common clinical sign is a cough that persists for 10 to 21 days despite treatment with antibiotics and cough suppressants. Most dogs have a soft, moist cough, whereas others have a dry cough that is similar to that induced by Bordetella bronchiseptica/parainfluenza virus infection (kennel cough). Many dogs have a nasal discharge and a low-grade fever. The nasal discharge is usually caused by secondary bacterial infections.

Some dogs are more severely affected with clinical signs of pneumonia, such as a high-grade fever (104°F to 106°F) and increased respiratory rate and effort. Canine influenza has not shown to have a high mortality rate. Only about 1-1.5% of dogs infected have died and most of these where older dogs or dogs with other health problems.

Since canine influenza is a viral infection, treatment consists mainly of supportive care while the virus runs its course, much like for human influenza. Good husbandry and nutrition may assist dogs in mounting an effective immune response. Dog owners should consult with their veterinarians if they think their dog has canine influenza. The veterinarian can determine what type of supportive care is needed, including whether antibiotics should be given for secondary bacterial infections. Dogs with pneumonia most likely require more intensive care provided in a hospital setting under the supervision of a veterinarian.

Reprinted Courtesy of Mike Conrad, Owner, Dogadillo Dog Boutique www.dogadillo.com

DOGS DIE FOR DRINKING ANTIFREEZE

This is an article every pet owner should read and keep for reference. You never know when you might need to refer to it;

Antifreeze poisoning is one of the most common forms of poisoning in small animals, and this is because it is so commonly found in households. Antifreeze poisoning typically happens when antifreeze drips from a car’s radiator, where it is licked off the ground and ingested by a pet. Your dog may also come into contact with antifreeze that has been added to a toilet bowl. This occurs in homes where the residents will use antifreeze during the cold months to "winterize" their pipes. Even if you do not take this action in your own home, it is something to be aware of when visiting other homes, or when vacationing at a winter residence.

It is the toxin ethylene glycol that makes antifreeze lethal. Because of this, dogs will consume great quantities of ethylene glycol before being repulsed by its aftertaste. By then, it is too late. It does not take a significant amount of ethylene glycol to cause fatal damage to the system; less than three ounces (or 88 ml) of antifreeze is sufficient to poison a medium-sized dog. Antifreeze poisoning affects the brain, liver, and kidneys.

Ethylene glycol is also found in engine coolant and hydraulic brake fluids.

Symptoms

Some common signs of antifreeze poisoning in dogs and cats include:

• Drunken behavior
• Euphoria/Delirium
• Wobbly, uncoordinated movement
• Nausea/Vomiting
• Excessive urination
• Diarrhea
• Rapid heart beat
• Depression
• Weakness
• Seizures/Convulsions/Shaking tremors
• Fainting
• Coma

Diagnosis

Your veterinarian will perform a thorough physical exam on your pet, taking into account the background of symptoms, and possible incidents that might have precipitated this condition. A complete blood profile will be conducted, including a chemical blood profile and a urinalysis. Your veterinarian will want to test the vomit or stool, if possible, as it may assist the veterinarian in diagnosing the type of poisoning and expedite your dog's treatment. The treatment will also be based on the medical history presented by you, so you will need to be as detailed as possible.

Treatment

For immediate first aid, and only if you are positive that your dog has ingested antifreeze , try to induce vomiting by giving your dog a simple hydrogen peroxide solution -- one teaspoon per five pounds of body weight, with no more than three teaspoons given at once. This method should only be used if the toxin has been ingested in the previous two hours, and should only be given three times, spaced apart at 10-minute intervals. If your pet has not vomited after the third dose, stop giving it the hydrogen peroxide solution and seek immediate veterinary attention.

You may want to call your veterinarian before trying to induce vomiting, since it can be dangerous with some toxins; some poisons will do more harm coming back through the esophagus than they did going down. Do not use anything stronger than hydrogen peroxide without your veterinarian's assent, and do not induce vomiting unless you are absolutely sure of what your dog has ingested. Also, if your pet has already vomited, do not try to force more vomiting.

A final word, do not induce vomiting if your dog is unconscious, is having trouble breathing, or is exhibiting signs of serious distress or shock. Whether your pet vomits or not, after the initial care, you must rush it to a veterinary facility immediately. Your veterinarian will be able to safely administer antidotes to the poison, such as activated charcoal to prevent further absorption of the toxin, and 4-methylpyrazole, which can treat antifreeze poisoning very effectively if given shortly after the consumption of antifreeze. Your dog may need to be held in intensive care to prevent kidney failure.

Living and Management

Dogs that have consumed antifreeze in very small quantity may survive, but will develop kidney failure within days of ingestion. Unfortunately, death due to kidney damage is common among animals that have been poisoned by antifreeze.

Prevention

Antifreeze poisoning can be easily avoided by following a few simple precautions:

1. Keep antifreeze containers tightly closed and stored out of the reach of pets.
2. Take care not to spill antifreeze, and if it is spilled, ensure that it is immediately and thoroughly cleaned up.
3. Dispose of used antifreeze containers properly.
4. Check the radiator of your car regularly, and repair leaks immediately.
5. Do not allow your dog to wander unattended where there is access to antifreeze (e.g., roads, gutters, garages, and driveways).
6. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has labeled propylene glycol safe and it is now used for antifreeze. Look for antifreeze with this ingredient instead, to keep your pet safer from accidental poisoning.
We want to keep you informed. Austin City Paws. www.austincitypaws.com

Doggy Milk Bones can make your dog sick!

I wanted to freshen up my dogs, thats two, breath so, I bought a large box of Milk Bone Dog biscuits. Those Greenies are getting a little expensive for this boys budget. Now I have to say the bones did help in the breath

department but about 3 in the morning dog #1 started throwing up then five minutes later, dog # 2 did the same. I was really puzzled so the next night I broke a bone in half, to lesson the trauma, and the got sick again.

I feed my two dogs, Missy and Duke, the Ultra brand-Nutra and they love it. It is a special blend of the real

thing with no by products. All that being said, there must be something in the soup that irritates a doggy's stomach. I would like to know if anyone else has had this to happen to them.

Please log on to www.austincitypaws.com and send me an email with your experience. I had no idea the product was now made in China. You can imagine the content has to be cheap if a big box is $6.00 and it has to be imported. Yuk! Gerry

Can your cat gave Herpes? You bet. Feline Herpes is easily passed from cat to cat and common

in the environment and almost impossible to prevent. Although herpesvirus protection is a component of a commonly administered feline vaccine, the vaccine doesn't fully protect every

cat. In addition, there are several other causes of conjunctivitis in cats including chlamydia and mycoplasma, both of which are bacterial species, not viruses. You can count on Austin City Paws to keep you informed and up to date on help with your cats and dogs.

Hope this helps. Gerry www.austincitypaws.com

The Austin Downtown High Rise pet community

Hard to believe how much the downtown Austin Skyline has changed over the past few years.

Even harder to fathom that 60 percent of the five thousand residence of the high rise buildings

have pets and most of them are dogs. So, lets say that two thirds of the pets are dogs, where do they go for recreation ? How are they paid back for the few hours of companionship while their

owners are at work? Do you think that dogs pay a great price for the privilege of being a intercommittent friend in city life, saving an owner from loneliness during a few hours at home?

It is like being in an isolation booth all day.

If you want the best for your dog it is only fair to spend extra time with your pet. When you can't be their please consider hiring a private, dependable dog walker to break the monotony of the day. I have to tell you, I see many happy dogs when I show up to walk and play. We love them when you have to leave them isn't a statement I came by per chance. At Austin City Paws that is exactly what we do and it is what your pet needs when you are gone. If you can't afford to pay someone to walk your pet, take the extra time during the day to go home and visit with them and take them for a walk or have some play time. If you would like more information on how you can make your pets day a lot brighter please visit my website www.austincitypaws.com or email me at gerry@austincitypaws.com . Take a minute and hug your dog or play with your cat. Gerry

Austin City Paws The Great Turkey Creek Run

Hey, if you love Vizsla's your gonna love the video on our Austin City Paws Facebook page.

http://www.facebook.com/pages/AUSTIN-CITY-PAWS/140282197635

Hard to believe that Thanksgiving is just a few weeks away. When you decide to travel consider having a trained professional take care of your pets while you are away in the comfort of their home, your home too of course. There is so much less stress on your pet when they get one on

one attention in their home environment. Puppies especially. At Austin City Paws we take special pride in puppy care while you are away. Senior dogs need special care and that involves more patients. We are certified in medication adm and injections for your pets and their meds.

You will love the difference of having an in-home pet sitter from any or the thousands of pet sitters across the country. If you live in the Austin area or just plan to visit, give us a call for all

of your pet sitting and Dog Walking needs. www.austincitypaws.com . Visit our site.

Austin City Paws

Wow.... So many Halloween Costume Contests for your poochie. I have been researching the Austin market and the biggest one yet is "Dogtoberfest" it will be held at the Domain on Saturday

the 24th of October and the proceeds do to several great animal rescue agencies. Come by our

Booth. Austincitypaws.com. Look for the Austin City Paws sign and sign up for Free in-home pet sitting. You take the vacation.... we watch your pets... Free.. Check us out at www.austincitypaws.com