You'll be glad your pet is HomeSafe with you after reading this unusual tale!
Pet owners visiting the beach for a day of fun and sun can anticipate the occasional safety hazard: holes in the sand, sharp pieces of driftwood or jagged shells. Unfortunately, after a recent experience with their two-year-old Westie/poodle mix, Ranger, Brace and Janet Rohrer can add stinging Portuguese man o’ wars to their list!
“My wife had taken Ranger to the beach that day and was playing fetch with him,” recalled Brace Rohrer of Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. “Ranger ran out to get the ball, but a man o’ war” – a venomous invertebrate similar to a jellyfish – “was lying next to it. Ranger pounced on the man o’ war instead of the ball and got stung on his right front paw.”
At his veterinarian’s office, Ranger received a dose of anti-inflammatory medication, an antihistamine, and a shot of pain reliever. He was one lucky dog! Aside from being extremely painful, a Portuguese man o’ war’s sting can cause fever, shock, circulatory and respiratory distress.
Rohrer’s claim for Ranger’s man o’ war incident was one of more than 80,000 claims received in the month of February by Veterinary Pet Insurance Co. (VPI), the nation’s oldest and largest provider of pet health insurance. Rohrer’s claim was considered along with other uncommon medical claims submitted in February and selected by VPI as the most unusual of the bunch.
As the most unusual claim submitted in February, Rohrer’s claim will be placed in the running for the 2010 VPI Hambone Awards. Each month, VPI employees nominate the most interesting claim submitted and in August 2010 the company will ask the public to vote for the most unusual claim of the year.
The VPI Hambone Award is named in honor of a VPI-insured dog that got stuck in a refrigerator and ate an entire Thanksgiving ham while waiting for someone to find him. The dog was eventually found, with a licked-clean hambone and a mild case of hypothermia.
Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor
Showing posts with label USA. Show all posts
Showing posts with label USA. Show all posts
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Monday, January 11, 2010
Focus Group on Feline Behaviour
Friskies brand cat food finally answers an age-old question that many cat owners have: What does my cat do when I am not at home?
The pet food company recently announced the results of a first-of-its-kind "focus group" that reveal there's more to life than a cat nap for our feline friends! Friskies had 50 roving "repurrters" to go on the job to reveal the magical world of cats through examining their sensory experiences in their home environments.
In the cat "focus group," cats from across the United States wore tiny digital cat-cams that took pictures of their surroundings every 15 minutes. The resulting photographs uncovered where cats go, what they do, and specifically, what they experience when their owners aren't home.
Purina animal behavior scientist, Jill Villarreal, Ph.D., analyzed the photos to determine what they revealed about the playful days and sensory experiences of cats when they are home alone. "Many people under-estimate the richness and sensory stimulation the home environment provides for our cats," said. Dr. Villarreal. "The photos shed light on the home from the cat's point-of-view and, for the first time, we can better understand what gets our cats' attention and provides them with opportunities for play and adventure when we are away.
According to Dr. Villarreal, cats of all ages need play time to help maintain a healthy body weight and keep their minds active. Through their photos, they gave us a personal look at their social lives by stalking playmates and toys, climbing on structures and exploring their home.
Other key findings include:
The pet food company recently announced the results of a first-of-its-kind "focus group" that reveal there's more to life than a cat nap for our feline friends! Friskies had 50 roving "repurrters" to go on the job to reveal the magical world of cats through examining their sensory experiences in their home environments.
In the cat "focus group," cats from across the United States wore tiny digital cat-cams that took pictures of their surroundings every 15 minutes. The resulting photographs uncovered where cats go, what they do, and specifically, what they experience when their owners aren't home.
Purina animal behavior scientist, Jill Villarreal, Ph.D., analyzed the photos to determine what they revealed about the playful days and sensory experiences of cats when they are home alone. "Many people under-estimate the richness and sensory stimulation the home environment provides for our cats," said. Dr. Villarreal. "The photos shed light on the home from the cat's point-of-view and, for the first time, we can better understand what gets our cats' attention and provides them with opportunities for play and adventure when we are away.
According to Dr. Villarreal, cats of all ages need play time to help maintain a healthy body weight and keep their minds active. Through their photos, they gave us a personal look at their social lives by stalking playmates and toys, climbing on structures and exploring their home.
Other key findings include:
- Several cats took pictures of computer and television screens. This is likely due to the cat's natural prey instinct to focus in on moving objects.
- The cats' photos revealed that screened-in porches are a rich oasis filled with sensory stimulation. This includes sights, sounds, textures, and smells with grassy patches and non-toxic plants that provide tactile (touch) and olfactory (smell) stimulation for the cats.
- The photos also showed that cats were greatly interested in water, be it in the sink, bathtub, or swimming pool. This may seem counter intuitive, as it is commonly believed that cats dislike water. However, these photos reveal that cats like water, but on their own terms.
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
'Failed' Service Dog Takes up Surfing
'Ricochet' is a Golden Retriever who is now better known as 'Rip Curl Ricki!"She was born to lead a life of service.... but, despite receiving the best possible training from the Puppy Prodigies Neonatal & Early Learning Program in San Diego, California, her penchant for chasing birds resulted in elimination from the program.
Rather than focus on what this dog couldn't do.... her trainer decided to focus on the dog's strengths and turned disappointment into a new direction. Ricki is now a surfing dog who not only helps the disabled, she also helps raise money for charity!
If you need inspiration to help you set new directions for the New Year, this video of Ricki riding the waves in the California surf is sure to bring a smile to your face and tears to your eyes!
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Salute to Soldiers Who Help Homeless Dogs
It's called "Operation Baghdad Pups" and it is a story sure to warm your heart!
A new show on the Military TV Channel highlights the efforts of American soldiers who have befriended homeless dogs in war zones. The program started after one soldier contacted SPCA International for help in bringing home a dog he had rescued in Baghdad.
Enjoy this 'Salute to Soldiers' on CNN!
A new show on the Military TV Channel highlights the efforts of American soldiers who have befriended homeless dogs in war zones. The program started after one soldier contacted SPCA International for help in bringing home a dog he had rescued in Baghdad.
Enjoy this 'Salute to Soldiers' on CNN!
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
H1N1 and Your Pet
There have been two confirmed reports of the H1N1 virus infecting a family pet. One was a ferret in Nova Scotia. The other was a cat in Iowa.
While there is no reason for panic, the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA)has published guidelines to help pet owners better understand the H1N1 virus and how to protect both people and companion animals.
The CVMA warns that H1N1 may be transmitted to ferrets, birds and pot-bellied pigs. It is believed that the possibility of transmission to dogs, cats, rodents and rabbits is low.
To reduce the risk of infecting pets with the flu, use the same precautions you do to prevent human-to-human transmission:
For more information, click here.
While there is no reason for panic, the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA)has published guidelines to help pet owners better understand the H1N1 virus and how to protect both people and companion animals.
The CVMA warns that H1N1 may be transmitted to ferrets, birds and pot-bellied pigs. It is believed that the possibility of transmission to dogs, cats, rodents and rabbits is low.
To reduce the risk of infecting pets with the flu, use the same precautions you do to prevent human-to-human transmission:
- Cough and sneeze into your arm, not your hand.
- Wash your hands frequently.
- Limit contact when you are sick.
- Avoid touching your pet's face, as germs can be transmitted through mouth and nose.
- Not eating or drinking.
- Not playing/active as usual.
- Coughing, sneezing.
- Fever.
For more information, click here.
Cat Survives Two Mile Ride in Car Engine
A recent "good news" story captured the hearts of cat loving Americans.
TV viewers were mesmerized by the story of a cat from the Bronx, NY, who survived a two-mile drive through his northern NYC borough, while stuck inside the engine of an SUV. The stray was so severely wedged inside that the battery and other engine parts had to be removed in order to free him. Though the story has a happy ending, the incident points to a winter phenomenon that many felines do not survive.
During the winter, American SPCA experts explain, it’s common for outdoor cats to sleep under the hoods of cars for warmth and protection. Once the motor is started, however, the cat can be injured or killed by moving parts. One solution is for drivers to bang loudly on the vehicle hood before starting their car engines. This gives a sleeping cat the chance to escape or announce his presence by meowing or moving around.
Pet parents, be aware: there are many other dangers that our animal companions face during winter. Click the link for a list of essential cold weather tips to keep companion animals safe from winter threats.
TV viewers were mesmerized by the story of a cat from the Bronx, NY, who survived a two-mile drive through his northern NYC borough, while stuck inside the engine of an SUV. The stray was so severely wedged inside that the battery and other engine parts had to be removed in order to free him. Though the story has a happy ending, the incident points to a winter phenomenon that many felines do not survive.
During the winter, American SPCA experts explain, it’s common for outdoor cats to sleep under the hoods of cars for warmth and protection. Once the motor is started, however, the cat can be injured or killed by moving parts. One solution is for drivers to bang loudly on the vehicle hood before starting their car engines. This gives a sleeping cat the chance to escape or announce his presence by meowing or moving around.
Pet parents, be aware: there are many other dangers that our animal companions face during winter. Click the link for a list of essential cold weather tips to keep companion animals safe from winter threats.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Dog Lost Near Airport is Found... by Another Dog
Two-year-old "Opal" -- a Maltese X Poodle -- was en route to a new home... but she had plans of her own. When the door to her kennel was opened, so her new owner could put her on a leash, the little white dog bolted.
After eight long and worrisome days looking for her new pet, the distraught pet guardian called in the big guns... or shall we say the big nose! "Heidi", a Labrador X who came to her rescue, is one of eight dogs in the USA who are part of an organization called "Dogs Finding Dogs."
Heidi lead them to a hole in a fence, that lead them to an airport, where the run-a-way was safely captured.
Dogs Finding Dogs is a group of highly trained handlers and dogs that can track and find a lost pet. The program has eight dog/handler teams that operate in three States.They charge a nominal fee, a portion of which is donated to charity.
After eight long and worrisome days looking for her new pet, the distraught pet guardian called in the big guns... or shall we say the big nose! "Heidi", a Labrador X who came to her rescue, is one of eight dogs in the USA who are part of an organization called "Dogs Finding Dogs."
Heidi lead them to a hole in a fence, that lead them to an airport, where the run-a-way was safely captured.
Dogs Finding Dogs is a group of highly trained handlers and dogs that can track and find a lost pet. The program has eight dog/handler teams that operate in three States.They charge a nominal fee, a portion of which is donated to charity.
The sole purpose of this amazing organization is to reunite people with their pets as soon as possible. More than just tracking teams, the association has been instrumental in reuniting dozens of pet using a variety of methods.
They also provide excellent advise you on what steps to find your lost pet.
Visit their Tale Wags pages to read some heartwarming success stories!
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
North America-Wide Animal Adoption Event
"Second Chance for Love"
Fall National Adoption Event
September 11-13 in all PetSmart Stores
PetSmart Charities(R) invites you to fall in love with a new pet this September 11-13 during the PetSmart Charities "Second Chance for Love" Fall National Adoption Event, sponsored by Hill's(TM) Science Diet(R) Brand and PetSmart(R).
The event will take place in all 1,137 PetSmart stores in the United States and Canada with a
goal of finding a lifelong, loving home for more than 18,800 companion animals.
More than 2,000 animal-welfare agencies in North America are expected to participate and will showcase adoptable pets at every PetSmart Charities in-store adoption center.
"Our vision is a lifelong, loving home for every pet," said Susana Della Maddalena, executive director of PetSmart Charities. "This event will give prospective Pet Parents the opportunity to find a great pet who will complete their families and bring them unconditional love."
In the U.S. alone, an estimated 6 to 8 million dogs and cats enter animal shelters each year, but 3 to 4 million never find homes.
"PetSmart Charities is a strong advocate for adoption when choosing to bring a new pet into your home," Della Maddalena added. "We strive to bring the needs of homeless pets into focus and remind everyone about the benefits of choosing adoption during our national adoption events, and we also give our animal-welfare partners a chance to showcase the pets in their care who are waiting for a forever home."
Hill's Science Diet Brand has donated $100,000 for the event to help save the lives of homeless pets. Plus, not only will prospective Pet Parents get a new family member during this event, but they will also receive valuable offers from Hill's.
"We are extremely proud and excited to be a part of this event," said Neil Thompson, Hill's president and CEO. "Hill's is committed to helping homeless cats and dogs find a loving, caring home to enjoy for the rest of their lives. To that end, we will donate to PetSmart Charities $10 per pet for the first 10,000 adoptions."
To find the PetSmart Charities' Adoption Center nearest you, visit www.PetSmart.com or call 1-800-423-PETS.
Fall National Adoption Event
September 11-13 in all PetSmart Stores
PetSmart Charities(R) invites you to fall in love with a new pet this September 11-13 during the PetSmart Charities "Second Chance for Love" Fall National Adoption Event, sponsored by Hill's(TM) Science Diet(R) Brand and PetSmart(R).
The event will take place in all 1,137 PetSmart stores in the United States and Canada with a
goal of finding a lifelong, loving home for more than 18,800 companion animals.
More than 2,000 animal-welfare agencies in North America are expected to participate and will showcase adoptable pets at every PetSmart Charities in-store adoption center.
"Our vision is a lifelong, loving home for every pet," said Susana Della Maddalena, executive director of PetSmart Charities. "This event will give prospective Pet Parents the opportunity to find a great pet who will complete their families and bring them unconditional love."
In the U.S. alone, an estimated 6 to 8 million dogs and cats enter animal shelters each year, but 3 to 4 million never find homes.
"PetSmart Charities is a strong advocate for adoption when choosing to bring a new pet into your home," Della Maddalena added. "We strive to bring the needs of homeless pets into focus and remind everyone about the benefits of choosing adoption during our national adoption events, and we also give our animal-welfare partners a chance to showcase the pets in their care who are waiting for a forever home."
Hill's Science Diet Brand has donated $100,000 for the event to help save the lives of homeless pets. Plus, not only will prospective Pet Parents get a new family member during this event, but they will also receive valuable offers from Hill's.
"We are extremely proud and excited to be a part of this event," said Neil Thompson, Hill's president and CEO. "Hill's is committed to helping homeless cats and dogs find a loving, caring home to enjoy for the rest of their lives. To that end, we will donate to PetSmart Charities $10 per pet for the first 10,000 adoptions."
To find the PetSmart Charities' Adoption Center nearest you, visit www.PetSmart.com or call 1-800-423-PETS.
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