There’s a bit of tail wagging going on in the Orlando and Central Florida area, thanks to a new pet insurance company that is offering better coverage than many other pet insurance companies in Central Florida. They are able to do this because all of the pets they insure live in Orlando and Central Florida and so the level of risk is similar for all pets.

With the uncertainties eliminated Trupanion has decided to offer significantly higher coverage, therefore it is certainly a pet insurance provider in the Orlando and Central Florida areas that should be looked at. Of course there are plenty of pet insurance companies, so do shop around for the best pet insurance for your pet.

Choosing pet insurance can be a bit intimidating. The key is to find the best deductible and the best coverage, for the lowest price. These six tips will show you how to do that.

1. Find out whether your breed is predisposed to certain conditions. Then find out if the pet insurance covers those conditions and what amount of coverage they provide.
2. Find out if they cover pre-existing conditions or hereditary conditions, and what amount of insurance they offer in these situations.
3. Look deeper than the agency you are purchasing the pet insurance from. Look at the underwriter who underwrites the policies and see what their “Best Rating” is; because this will give you an idea of their financial stability.
4. Find out whether there are any stipulations pertaining to which veterinarian you can see, and how they pay out claims. Do you pay first and then submit, or do they pay directly.
5. Find out if there are caps per year, per ailment, or incident. If you don’t find out in advance you could find yourself with inadequate coverage when you need it most.
6.  Online insurance reviews are a great way to find out about various pet insurance providers. Find out things like how fast they pay out on claims, their high denial rate, and a host of other information that will help you to choose the right insurance plan for you and your pet.

Our pets are part of our family. Just as you wouldn’t be without health insurance for your two legged family, you shouldn’t be without health insurance for your dogs or cats either.

Originally posted 2010-04-01 04:21:51. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

Cats can be taught many tricks, but unfortunately your cat’s personality may make the task a little more challenging. The most obvious tasks that a cat can learn are litter and toilet training, using a cat door, learning not to scratch the furniture, to play nicely, and to not hang from the drapes.

Dogs can be taught all manner and means of helpful commands and tricks. Basic commands such as sit, stay, heel, come, along with basic house training are the very minimum that any dog should be taught. When it comes to dogs, the sky is pretty much the limit with what you would like to impart.

Rabbits can be house trained, and can also be trained to enter their hutch on command, and to come when their name is called. Rabbits respond to food training.

Birds, and parrots in particular, can be taught to feed from a hand, walk up an arm or hand (known as to “step up”), not to bite, and to say many words and phrases. Parrots require time and patience. Once your parrot has learned a new command you will need to keep reiterating it daily, forever. Parrots and birds respond well to praise and food treats when they are being trained.

Rats can be trained to use a litter tray, come when called by name, clap their paws, and jump, to mention just a few. Rats will respond well to food treats and also to clicker training.

Fish can be trained to perform all sorts of party tricks including swimming through hoops and playing underwater soccer.

Pet Training Techniques.

All pet training techniques are based on a reward system which eventually allow your pet to know that what he is doing is correct and making you happy. Pet training requires plenty of time and patience. Whenever you see your pet is tiring of the game or losing their concentration it is time to wrap the session up on a positive note. Once your pet has learned his new command or party trick, you will need to keep practicing for reinforcement.

The reward system of training will work well with pets such as dogs, cats, rabbits, rats, and even birds. For dogs and cats, the rewards can be praise, hugs and cuddles, pats, or food treats. Rats, birds, and rabbits will learn best with food rewards for extra motivation. Basically the reward system works by giving your pet a treat every time they get the command correct when you first start out. After a while, you can quit rewarding them every time and just randomly reward, or move onto verbal praise, pats and hugs.

* The clicker training system is based upon the reward system but incorporates a clicking noise that your pet will learn to associate with rewards and treats. The benefit of a clicker is that it is not a verbal command and everyone in the household can use the clicker with the same end result. The disadvantage of a clicker is that it ties up one hand.

When clicker training your pet you will first have to teach your pet to associate the clicker with good behaviors and immediate rewards. This can be achieved by clicking when you see your pet doing something good and immediately rewarding him with food. Pretty soon your pet will understand that the clicking noise means a tasty reward. At this point effective pet training can commence. So when your pet does as you ask you will click, and then immediately produce the goodies.

It is possible to train many domestic pets to perform basic housekeeping chores and party tricks, through to more complicated activities. Time, patience and rewards, along with an understanding of your pet’s basic potential will make for effective pet training.

Originally posted 2009-09-10 12:10:21. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

An Outfit for Every Occasion

There are so many wonderful clothing items available for cats and dogs these days.  From useful outerwear to fancy dress for those special occasions, there is something for every furry friend out there.  A great way to pamper your pet is to buy them something exceptional to wear such free knit dog sweaters or a Jada Cardigan and make them feel like the special pet they truly are. 

Pet Accessories with Flair

Another great way to pamper your pet is to purchase some fashionable pet accessories for them.  In addition to the personalized pet carriers and bejeweled pet brushes, there are a wide array of unique and useful pet accessories available to pet owners who want to go above and beyond simply caring for their pets.  Dogs and cats will feel extra special with handmade necklaces and hairpins which make them the stars that they really are.  You can even have these items crafted with your pet’s initials to make them personalized and that much more special. 

Take Your Pet Out and About to Show Off Their New Fashion Styles

There is perhaps no better way to show your pet how much you love them than by taking them out for a walk.  Depending on where you live, you are sure to find activities and locations that cater to dogs, cats and their owners as well.  Whether it is taking your best friend to the dog park, taking kitty out and about in their fancy pet stroller, or toting your pooch in a canvas dog carrier, your furry friend will love getting out of the house and feeling extra special with their new fashion styles in place.

Originally posted 2009-08-06 12:42:31. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

The most common pet allergy is to cats, followed by dogs, but many people are also allergic to horses, rabbits, rodents, and feathers. Many people are allergic to multiple types of pets. It can be devastating for the pet owner who buys and cherishes a pet to only discover down the track that they are allergic. One great way to test yourself or any sensitive members of the household, is to arrange contact with the sort of animal you are considering purchasing before you have committed yourself. Do you have friends who own the same pet?

Those who find the thought of being parted from their loved one can try various measures to bring their allergies under control. Allergists can often help with long-term treatments. Alternatively, you can contain your pet to only some parts of the house. This would preferably be away from carpet, and your bedroom. Have others in the household deal with any litter trays, and have the pet bathed about every 2 weeks to minimize buildup of saliva and dander on their fur, if appropriate.

Low Allergenic Dogs and Cats
Here is a list of dogs and cats that generally cause fewer problems with allergic folk: Poodles of all types, including the newer hybrid breeds such as Spoodles, Labradoodles, and Groodles. Poodles do not have fur, but hair, and for many allergy sufferers Poodle blends are the answer to their problems. Cats that are considered to be less allergenic are the Cornish Rex, Devon Rex, Sphynx, and the Russian Blue.

Hypoallergenic Dogs and Cats
Scientists have isolated the major allergen in both cats and dogs, and have reportedly successfully bred cats and dogs which do not contain the protein that sets off allergies in humans. The dogs are known as Jabari GD and the cats as Allerca GD.

Other Hypoallergenic Pets
Other pets that seem to truly not worry sensitive folk are snakes, lizards, turtles, and fish.

Virtual Pets
Virtual pets can be a another great solution for those who are extremely allergic, and can be ideal for children. You can adopt a virtual pet, personalize it, and then have to care for it on a daily basis, just like a real animal. Virtual pets can be an excellent way to demonstrate to children the daily responsibility of owning a real pet. Virtual pets also mean that everyone in the household can have their very own, and of course the financial upkeep is nothing.

Conclusion
Many people are allergic to one or more type of household pet. Research has made great advances into breeding dogs and cats that are truly hypoallergenic. For those who would prefer another kind of living animal, fish, lizards, and snakes, are all considered to be non-allergenic.

Originally posted 2009-09-11 00:24:18. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

While using microchips in pets is being pushed by the AKC and many veterinaries, like everything there are both pros and cons to microchips in pets. Let’s have a look at both.

Pros

Microchips offer a permanent form of identification and proof of ownership for your pets. It has an estimated life expectancy of 75 years and it is far less stressful to your pet than a tattoo. ISO chips could make traveling between countries with your pets easier. Border clearances could be significantly reduced.

If your pet becomes lost the odds of finding your pet increase significantly with a microchip. Most shelters and almost all veterinary clinics have microchip readers so when a stray animal arrives they can scan for a microchip and reconnect the pet with its rightful owner.

If pet microchips become mandatory pet owners would be forced to look out for the welfare of their pets including proper medical care and meeting the pet’s basic needs. It would also make those who chose to abuse their pets more accountable since the owner could be easily identified.

Cons

The actual health risks associated with implanting these microchips has not been identified since they are far too new. Some research suggests they could be responsible for some forms of cancer.

Microchips can cause a false sense of security. The microchips have a tendency to migrate within the body. As a result the microchips are not always picked up because scanner operators are improperly trained or too impatient, which results in missed microchips.

Should pet microchip programs become mandatory there are issues pertaining to privacy of the owners. Each year on the first Saturday of April the American Humane Association, in the Orlando Florida area, holds Tag Day. The event is designed to create awareness for the importance of making sure your pet is identifiable should they become lost or stolen.

When pets land in shelters in the Orlando area, only 2% of cats and 15% of dogs with no identification will be reunited with their owners. Those are alarmingly low numbers, which is why the push is on to make sure all pets are identified, and microchips might just be the best way to do just that.

Originally posted 2010-03-18 15:54:29. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

Expect to see a well rounded selection of medium weight sweaters for those chillier nights. Color palettes are very sex specific this season – pink for girls, and blue for boys. The spring fashions for pets also include a terrific selection of short sleeved and no sleeve tees – from stripes to skulls to hearts. It’s all about fun this coming season. Polo shirts have made a comeback with their preppy styles and fun colors.

If you like dresses for your cute little girl, you are in luck this spring, for you’ll find a terrific selection of light weight dresses. From fills to buttons and bows – definitely ultra feminine and so masculine, so both the girls and boys are going to look awfully stylish this spring.

Throughout Orlando and Central Florida you will find some of the best Pet Coutures around. From hand crafted apparel to fabulous pet apparel collections like the Paris Hilton Collection, if you want your pet to have style, the opportunities abound. Many of the Pet Coutures offer custom orders. That way you can create your own line of spring fashions for your pet.

Spring fashions for pets aren’t just for dogs. There are also fantastic apparel and accessories for the cats in your lives. For the cat owner with a feline that isn’t interested in clothing, there are some fantastic accessory options, such as dazzling rhinestone collars, custom bow tie collars, or fun stretchy fish collars.

Spring fashions for pets include a fabulous cotton blend line of pajamas for both cats and dogs. The cat pajamas are some of the cutest we’ve seen in years. From super hot pink to sunshine yellow, some have hoods, and almost all have some type of fish pattern. So cute!

One thing is for sure, spring fashions for pets will be as popular as ever. Pet owners wait in anticipation to see the complete lines of spring fashions for pets. It won’t be long now!

Originally posted 2010-02-15 06:42:14. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

Pet vaccinations serve the same purpose as pediatric vaccinations: They help build immunity. Once built however, the question for pets is: How often should vaccinations be given once said pet reaches adulthood?

The First Year
For puppies and kittens, vaccinations are a must. Starting at six weeks, through a pet’s first year, vet checkups should be routinely scheduled. Afterwards, annual visits are sufficient; and for shots, the occurrence can be anywhere from 1 to 3 years.

For puppies, the standard vaccinations are:

• Rabies
• Distemper
• Hepatitis
• Parvovirus
• Bordetalla (kennel cough)

For kittens, you’ll want to make sure they get protected from:

• Rabies
• Feline viral rhinotracheitis and calicivirus (FVRCP/C)
• Distemper
• Feline leukemia

As for when these vaccinations should be administered, the following schedule will give you an idea of how often a puppy or kitten must go to the Vet. In addition to vaccinations, de-worming is always part of the process as well.

For puppies:

• 6-8 weeks: Distemper, measles, parainfluenza (bordatella)
• 10-12 weeks: DHPP (distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, parvovirus)
• 12-24 weeks: Rabies
• 14-15 weeks: DHPP (2nd)
• 12-16 months: Rabies (follow-up) and DHPP (3rd)

For kittens:

• 6-8 weeks: FVRCP (feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and panleukopenia)
• 12 weeks: FVRCP (2nd), FeLV (feline leukemia virus)
• 14 weeks: FeLV (2nd)
• 16 weeks: FVRCP (3rd), rabies
• 12-18 months and thereon: FVRCP (yearly), FeLV (yearly), rabies (as required)

Adulthood
Once puppies become dogs and kittens become cats, the frequency of vaccinations is something that owners should discuss with their vets. How often do pets need to be vaccinated? Aside from the rabies shot, which is mandated by law, the other vaccines might be waived.

Is it possible to over-vaccinate?  Such is the controversy. For example, cancerous tumors have been known to develop near the sites of vaccinations. The argument for regular vaccinations however is that they are preventatives. Certainly this is the main “pro.”

The debate for and against yearly vaccinations surfaced in 1998 when the American Association of Feline Practitioners recommended that certain vaccines could be administered every 3 years instead of annually. The door was thus opened for further consideration – for both cats and dogs.

Today, yearly checkups are prescribed for all pets. However, pet vaccinations are given less frequently (with the exception of the rabies shot). In general, most veterinarians will recommend these vaccinations every 3 years:

• For dogs: Distemper, parvovirus, adenovirus-2, parainfluenza virus
• For cats: Panleukopenia virus, feline herpesvirus-1, feline calicivirus

Too Strong?
If concerned, also ask your vet how strong the vaccine is. Another concern for pet owners and many in the Central Florida veterinarian community is that the pet vaccines have become stronger in order to cover the gap between shots.

One solution pet owners may not be aware of is the “titers test,” which can determine the amount of antibodies present in your pet. Consequently, it can tell you if your pet needs more vaccine. An obstacle however is that a “titers test” costs $100 to $200, which is more than triple what a pet vaccination would cost.

Pet owners however should look at the bigger picture and realize that over-vaccination is a risk. And, it’s a big one. As always, consult your Central Florida vet with your questions and concerns.

Originally posted 2010-01-15 08:00:23. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

that all pets up for adoption have issues, this is certainly not usually the case. Many cats and dogs are given up due to changes in finances or accommodation, death or illness of an owner, poor personality match, and owners who tire of being responsible, or just didn’t realize what was involved in owning a pet.

There are many advantages to pet adoption:

Firstly, most pets available for adoption are adults, so personality types are easier to identify. Many pets in rescues have been house trained. Many pet adoption agencies offer back up such as obedience training, and post adoption counseling to ensure a smooth transition after you bring your new pet home.

Secondly, you are saving a cat or dog from being put down. At the moment more than 4 million unwanted pets have to be put to sleep each year in the United States.

Thirdly, contrary to popular opinion, many purebred dogs and cats also end up for adoption, so if you prefer a certain breed you certainly have a chance of adoption. There are specific breed rescue agencies available, so if you have your heart set on a particular breed, they will be the best agency to deal with.

Lastly, adopting a pet will usually cost less than purchasing from a breeder or pet store. Your new friend will be vaccinated, wormed, and may even have been desexed.

How to adopt a pet.

Many pet adoption agencies will have you fill out adoption forms so they can ascertain what sort of dog or cat will best suit you, your household, and lifestyle. Many agencies may even come and inspect your home before initiating the adoption process. This removes a lot of guess work and minimizes the chances of the placement being unsuccessful. However, many agencies will take the pet back if things don’t go according to plan.

Most reputable pet adoption agencies will have you understand the reasons why most of the animals are in the shelter, so that you don’t inadvertently bring home more than you can manage.

There are many pet adoption agencies in the U.S. including the Humane Society of the United States, and Adopt a Pet.com. Most adoption agencies are affiliated with many shelters and animal rescues. Most pet adoption agencies have web sites where you can receive plenty of information, fill out the adoption forms, and take a peek at the animals needing new homes.

Here are just a few of the pet adoption agencies located in Central Florida: 

• SPCA of Central Florida 
• Cocker Spaniel/ Small Dog Rescue of Central Florida 
• Animal Shelter of Central Florida   
• Greyhound Pets of America/Central Florida Chapter  
• Central Florida Great Dane Rescue 
• Central Brevard Humane Society  
• Orlando Humane Society of Central Florida 
• Golden Retriever Rescue of Mid-Florida, Inc

As you can see by the list there are many pet adoption agencies to assist you, and ther are even adoption agencies dedicated to various pet breeds.

Pet adoption can be a win-win situation. An abandoned pet will be given a new lease on life and love with you and your family.

Originally posted 2009-11-01 09:59:23. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

Ever since the nationwide pet-food recall of 2007, there’s been an ever-increasing trend towards natural and holistic pet foods. The kind of pet food made from natural ingredients – with few (if any) artificial additives.

Pet owners are beginning to realize the importance of higher-quality foods for their pet. What’s more, nutritional supplements and exercise regimens have also come to the forefront of pet health. These days, pet owners simply want to find the best way to protect their furry, scaly, finned, and feathered friends.

Natural Pet Food
“Natural” pet food has emerged as the first line of defense in pet health. The 2007 recall was an emotional wakeup for pet owners. Many pet owners have reacted by choosing to buy only natural foods for their pets. This shift in consumer demand has consequently created space for new local businesses specializing in such brands.

Many pet stores in Central Florida offer a varied selection of natural brands, including California Natural, Innova, and Innova EVO. Many traditional pet stores in Central Florida as well as online pet stores such as J’adore My Pet offer store-to-door delivery or package deals on health supplements and specialized holistic natural pet food – perfect for owners on the go.

Did You Know: Treats can be healthy too! Many pet boutiques such as J’adore My Pet and other traditional brick and mortar businesses offer various packaged treats for your pooch, along with all-natural “cookies” made with human-grade ingredients like apple, banana, carob, and cinnamon.

Nutritional Supplements for your Pet
There has also been an increased interest in pet nutritional supplements. Owners today wonder if their pets are getting enough vitamins, minerals, and nutrients in their diets. For ailments such as muscle aches and joint pains, many pet owners have considered holistic treatments.  For example, glucosamine for dogs and condroitin for cats, are two of the most popular pain-relief supplements on the market today.

This being said, remember that when it comes to supplements, it’s imperative you consult your pet’s veterinarian first. Every pet is special and unique. Ask your Central Florida vet specifically about possible side effects, medication combinations, and what the alternatives are. What’s more, check with the FDA first to learn of any adverse effects and go into your vet visit prepared.

Exercise
As for exercise, dogs of course need their walks. Even small dogs should have room to roam – a luxury not all living spaces can provide. The answer? Dog-walking services, which have seen a boom in business over the last few years, is a great resource for the busy pet owner. Indeed, while discretionary spending has gone down because of the economy, certain aspects of pet ownership, such as food and health-related perks, have sustained their growth. Why? Simply because pet owners realize that the benefits outweigh the cost.

And while dogs will lap up a walk with their designated dog walker, nothing can compare to spending time with you. Fortunately, Orlando and Central Florida have several dog parks made for such occasions. Orlando dog parks include: Doctor Phillips Dog Park, Downey Dog Park, Barber Dog Park, and Meadow Woods Dog Park. And for the surrounding areas, look no further than Hound Ground in Winter Springs, Mount D.O.R.A. Dog Park in Mount Dora, Gemini Springs Dog Park in DeBary, and several others throughout Central Florida.

As a treat take your dog to one of these parks for a morning or afternoon run, hike, or game of tag. Remember: every time your dog works out, so do you. You’re both the better for it.

Originally posted 2009-12-15 08:00:05. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

Space is a big factor. Do you have a big fenced yard to keep a large dog? Do you have any enclosed outdoor area at all? Do you have room to install an aquarium, kennel, litter tray, or mouse house? Can you keep these possibly smelly things away from the main part of your home?

Time.  No matter what other family members promise, you may end up as the care provider of the pet. How much time do you have for walking, feeding, training, cleaning up, and grooming, each and every day? Dogs and cats require more daily attention but even a relatively low maintenance bird in a cage requires feeding and a clean cage.

Money. Now, there is not just the cost of the actual pet purchase, but the ongoing minimum costs of feeding and maintenance. Vet bills are another point to consider. Apart from de-sexing, pets can and do get sick, encounter ticks, snakes, and trauma, and all these things cost money. As far as dogs and cats go, the heavier the animal, the more expensive medications will be. Bigger animals will also require more food than a smaller animal. Another consideration is the potential cost of pet sitters.

Children. How many children do you have, and how old are they? Some dogs and cats respond better to various ages than others. This is the sort of question that your local friendly vet should be able to help you with. Do you want a quiet animal or something a little more rambunctious?

Allergies. Does anyone in your family suffer from asthma or other allergies? If the answer is yes, you will need to do a little more research before coming home with the new pet. Many people are allergic to dogs, cats, rabbits, rodents, and even feathers. However, all is not lost, there are many hypoallergenic pets on the market designed specifically for animal lovers with allergies. Click here for our article on Pet Owners With Allergies for more information.

Family activities. Do you like to hang out at home, or are you out and about a lot? Do you take a lot of vacations, or mini-breaks? Who is going to mind the pet every time you are gone?

Geography. Please spare some thought for the climate where you live. We have all seen the Husky dog living in the Tropics looking extremely uncomfortable. If you live near water and are considering a dog, why not go for a water loving breed? If you are planning on purchasing an indoor pet such as a turtle or snake, you will need to ensure that you can replicate their temperature requirements with heating lamps.

Personal Preference. Of course, personal preference is always going to play a huge part. Some families love cats, others love dogs. Some may not fancy the ideas of guinea pigs, rodents, or snakes, while others think they are great. If the thought of a particular pet sends a shudder through you just thinking about it, then this is probably a sure sign that you shouldn’t bring one home.

The ideal pet is a valuable part of any family or household. Considering some pets can live for as long as 15 or 20 years, taking some time to consider what sort of pet is going to be best for you makes good long term sense.

Originally posted 2009-09-29 14:38:08. Republished by Blog Post Promoter