Saturday, April 30, 2011

Herb 'N' Living: Growing a Home Garden for Your Pet -Part 1

Pet MD




Some animal experts have asserted that pets intuitively eat plants according to their specific medicinal value -- that is, as long as they have several plants to choose from. The problem, however, is that we choose our plants for beauty rather than edibility. So when a pet has only household plants or landscaping to choose from, it can lead to something more serious than a bellyache, especially if the plants are toxic or sprayed with chemical pesticides and fertilizers. But, given the right plants to choose from, your pet will be able to treat itself and you won’t need to worry about potential side effects.


Whether you have a large yard space, a small four-foot by four-foot plot, or a windowsill, you can grow a healing garden for your cat or dog. Most of these plants are simple to grow and inexpensive to boot. Even better, many double as home remedies for you and your family.


So without further ado, here are a few tips that will earn you an honorary green thumb. For an outdoor garden, the burdock herb is an ideal plant. Known for its ability to treat allergies and digestive and kidney issues, the burdock is a traditional medicinal plant used worldwide. A rich soil works best, but be careful to not let this plant grow too large, for it will take over your entire garden when given the opportunity.


Milk thistle, good for liver disorders, is low on demands. It can be grown in wet or dry soil, and in a sunny or partly sunny location. However, remove the flowering heads to prevent it from becoming too weedy. Peppermint is another easy-to-grow herb. Go to the store, buy the plant, and place it in rich, moist soil -- that's it. Your pet will find the leaves of the peppermint herb, which does well in both sun and shade, useful for indigestion and nausea. Just don’t forget to cut the springs back regularly to encourage healthy growth.


The Astragalus herb, meanwhile, is useful for lowering blood pressure, decreasing blood sugar, improving digestion, and promoting healing. The Astragalus seeds need to be scratched before planting in a sandy soil. Similarly, garlic is a well-known immune booster. Garlic grass is easy to grow, indoors and outdoors, and can be started from a bulb bought at your local grocery store. Just push the cloves under a quality soil, pointed side up. Keep in mind that the garlic clove, eaten in large amounts, can make your dog ill, and it is toxic to cats. Garlic cloves should not be given to your cat under any circumstance, but the grass that grows from the clove can be nibbled on as your cat feels the need.

CP Foster Jethro is waiting for his forever home - won't you consider adopting him?

Written by Jethro and his foster mom


Here is Jethro. He is ready to roll for a new Forever Home. He is a happy guy who seems to have minimal baggage. Please keep him in mind if your family wants a pirate dog. ( Jethro says: I only have one eye. It has been gone for ever so long but it doesn't bother me at all)

Ok. My two week evaluation period is up and I am officially accepting applications for my new Forever Family. Here's a list of things I will be looking for: Someone to love me and keep me - forever. Someone to take me for walks. A yard would be nice, but not a deal breaker. Someone who doesn't think I'm handicapped. So what if my eye is missing? I play just like every other dog. And I see just fine with the one I have. Watch Jethro work over a raccoon toy: tinyurl.com/3b7jhaf

I need someone around so I don't get lonely; either another dog friend or a person. I am very good company! And I'd like some toys, and balls to throw. And treats for when I'm a specially good boy (and sometimes just because you love me). If these criteria are easy for you, then fill out that application right now! Time's a wastin'!

Please go to our website to find out more about Jethro who is being fostered in Texas.

Friday, April 29, 2011

Ask Eraser: Eraser answers your questions



Dear Eraser,

My sweet little cairn rescue has become a sock-stealing, aroooing, stubborn and mischievous little terror! He demands regular trips to the dog park and will bark at me if I'm not getting ready fast enough!

Where did I go wrong?

I'll bet you are nothing like that, right? You're probably a perfect angel!

Love,
Jenni in Iowa
Roland's servant and mother

Eraser Says:

i imagine you went wrong by being too slow, if you don’t want to be barked at hurry up. you may think its just going to the park but maybe its a much more important business meeting, you may think its taking a sock but maybe a scorpion was hiding in that sock, maybe that arooooo is the news of the neighborhood or something you really need to know. i only have your word about Roland being mischievous and stubborn little terror, im sure he has a different opinion, just let Roland run things there a while and you relax and take it easy, things will get to normal in a very short time.

Eraser and Cindy U. are being fostered in Pennsylvania and you can learn more about him and the other cairns available for adoption by clicking here.

Friday's Funnies

Raising Duncan


by Chris Browne

Thursday, April 28, 2011

Prepping Your Pup for Outdoor Activities

The Wellness Blog




Bea and Neha


Prepping for Outdoor Activities


Be sure to inspect your yard and always practice proper pet etiquette.
Warm air is finally upon us, which means you and your pet will likely be heading outdoors for some fun in the sun. Here are some important things to consider when preparing your dog for time outside, particularly following the winter.

The Great Outdoors

Before you let your nosy hound explore all that your yard has to offer, make sure you take a walk around to inspect for any potentially dangerous items. New plants may have recently pollinated your yard so it’s important to keep your pets away from any that could be harmful. Take care to remove or fence off any hazardous plants, such as lilies, azalea, and rhododendron to name just a few, that your dog may be able to access. You should also check your yard for choking hazards, this particularly applies to young puppies or especially curious dogs that are apt to chew on items they shouldn’t. Small sticks, stones or pieces of bark should be removed from your pet’s reach.

A Stroll in the Park

When taking your dog to a local park or other public area, always be respectful and aware of necessary pet etiquette. A dog taken to a public area should always be leashed, unless the rules for the area are otherwise. Given the likelihood that your pet will encounter other animals and people, it is beneficial for your dog to be trained in general obedience and important commands such as stay, sit, and down. You’ll want to reward your pet for their social excellence so be sure to have some snacks on hand, like Wellness® WellBites® to help keep your dog motivated. Having a well-trained pup will help keep these social encounters positive and enjoyable for all of those involved.

Day Trips

This time of year is a great time to take your dog for longer day trips, be it hiking, a trip to the beach, or a day of exploration. It is important that you plan ahead and pack appropriately for yourself as well as your pet. Make sure you pack an adequate water supply, a drinking bowl for your dog, food and/or snacks, a collar and leash. Other items such as toys, bedding or blankets, a shade mechanism and pet-first aid kit are also helpful items to have on hand if needed. Just as we see with humans, if your pet has been fairly lazy during the winter months, you’ll want to build up their stamina gradually. Steadily increasing the distance of walks or hikes will help your pup increase his or her endurance to these various activities. As you embark on various journeys with your pet, keep a close eye on their condition to ensure your pet is enjoying the activity and is not at a point of exhaustion.

Post-Play Clean Up

Whether your pet is playing in your own backyard or taking a long hike, a thorough inspection and cleaning should be performed after their time outdoors. This includes cleaning any dirt or build-up from the dog’s ears and paws, as well as checking the dog thoroughly for ticks (if applicable to the area in which you live).

Following these simple steps for safe outdoor play will help keep your dog healthy and happy, and make the outdoors all the more enjoyable for you and your pup.




Wednesday, April 27, 2011

Beware of finding your pet on craigslist

Written by CP's Blog Intern




We've all had the urge: the urge to browse. Glancing over our shoulders where our spouses or bosses can't see we start perusing Petfinder, oggling the pets that could be ours if circumstances were different. Should you be looking at these sites with the intent to adopt, beware, as some of the most common methods scammers use are online postings about free pets.


Here are some things to look for:


-Posts that ask for an e-mail containing information about your house, ie a description, what your neighborhood is like, what the inside of your house has in it, etc. Beware, as this is the same kind of information burglars take into account when planning a robbery! This is the kind of information that should be disclosed over the phone, or in person, so at least you have information about the other party to protect yourself with.


-Posts from strange countries like Nigeria. There are legalities involved in transporting any animal across the border and I highly doubt any cross-country breeder of repute would be on Craig's List.


-Posts that ask for payment in advance of even seeing the pet. This one should be obvious, but in an age of mindless digital spending people can be quick on the draw with their Debit cards or PayPal accounts. After all, the adoption fee/reservation for that adorable terrier was only fifty dollars!


-People willing to send the dog to a home without visiting it first. This is a sign the dog you could be rescuing may be coming from a bad situation. It could be sick, malnourished, and that bit about it having all its shots could be a bunch of hogwash. At the very least be cautious.


-If it sound too good to be true: It is.


We all love animals. Just remember in your search for a new best friend that there are people in the world who will take advantage of you if they can.


Col. Potter has volunteers who search craigslist, petfinders and online for cairns in need of rescue. Please 'adopt, don't shop' and consider rescuing your next best friend.

Wacky Wednesday!


Wednesday is the day to be WACKY! Each week we will showcase a terrierific cairn picture with an appropriate caption. If you have a terrierific cairn and would like us to consider YOUR picture and caption for an upcoming "Wacky Wednesday" send it to us at cpcrnblog@gmail.com! (All photo submissions become the property of CPCRN and may be used for fundraising, promotion and/or outreach purposes.)

A big shout out to Oppie and Kipper for being our Wacky Wednesday models this week!

Tuesday, April 26, 2011

Common Household Hazards for Dogs and Cats - Part 3

Sharon Gwaltney-Brant DVM, PhD Jill A. Richardson, DVM

ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center


Continued - please scroll back for the other 2 segments of this important article



9. Bread Dough

Raw bread dough made with yeast poses mechanical and biochemical threats to animals ingesting it. The warm, moist gastric environment stimulates yeast growth, resulting in expansion of the dough mass, resulting in gastric distention, which if severe, can result in respiratory and vascular compromise. Perhaps more significant is the release of alcohol from yeast fermentation, resulting in profound metabolic acidosis, CNS depression and death.



Nicotine Products:


Nicotine Content

Cigarettes

3-30 mg per 1 whole cigarette

cigarette butts

5-7 mg

cigars

15-40 mg

moist snuff

4.6-32 mg/ gram

dry snuff

12.4-15.6/ gram

chewing tobacco

2.5-8 mg/ gram

nicotine gum

2-4mg per piece

transdermal patches

15-114 mg per patch

nicotine nasal sprays

10 mg per mL

nicotine inhaler rods

10mg per cartridge


Early clinical signs may include unproductive attempts at emesis, abdominal distention, anddepression. As alcohol intoxication develops, the animal becomes ataxic and disoriented. Eventually, profound CNS depression, weakness, recumbency, coma, hypothermia may occur.


Management of exposure includes decontamination and treatment for alcohol toxicosis. Because emesis is often unsuccessful, gastric lavage is initially recommended. The veterinarian should be prepared to perform gastrotomy should the lavage fail to remove the bulk of the dough mass due to the glutinous nature of the dough. Treatment for alcohol intoxication should proceed as previously described.


10. Mothballs


Mothballs may be composed of either 100% naphthalene or 99% paradichlorobenzene. Naphthalene- based mothballs are approximately twice as toxic as paradichlorobenzene, and cats are especially sensitive to naphthalene. Naphthalene causes Heinz bodies, hemolysis, and, occasionally, methemoglobinemia in dogs with doses of 411 mg/kg or more (one 2.7 g mothball contains 2700 mg of naphthalene). Paradichlorobenzene primarily affects the liver and CNS, although methemoglobinemia and hemolysis have been reported in humans.

Signs of ingestion of naphthalene mothballs include emesis (early), weakness, icterus, lethargy, icterus, brown-colored mucous membranes, and collapse. Rarely, hepatitis has been reported 3- 5 days post-ingestion. Paradichlorobenzene mothballs may cause GI upset, ataxia, disorientation, and depression. Elevations in liver serum biochemical values may occur within 72 hours of ingestion.

Treatment of mothball ingestion includes early emesis, activated charcoal, and cathartic. Treatment for hemolysis or methemoglobinemia (blood replacement therapy, methylene blue, etc) may be necessary. Intravenous fluid diuresis should be maintained in cases with hemolysis in order to minimize the risk of hemoglobin-induced renal nephrosis. Evidence of hepatic damage, based on biochemical values, would indicate that symptomatic therapy for general liver failure (oral antibiotics, lactulose, dietary management, etc) should be instituted.


11. Moldy Food (Tremorgenic mycotoxins)


Tremorgenic mycotoxins produced by molds on foods are a relatively common, and possibly under-diagnosed, cause of tremors and seizures in pet animals. Because of their relatively indiscriminate appetites, dogs tend to be most commonly exposed to tremorgens. These toxins are produced from a variety of fungi, however tremorgens produced by Penicillium spp. are the most commonly encountered. These molds grow on practically any food, including dairy products, grains, nuts, and legumes; compost piles may also provide a source of tremorgens. Tremorgens have a several different mechanisms of actions: some alter nerve action potentials, some alter neurotransmitter action, and while others alter neurotransmitter levels. The overall affect is the development of muscle tremors and seizures.


Clinical signs include fine muscle tremors that may rapidly progress to more severe tremors and seizures. Death generally occurs in the first 2 to 4 hours and is usually secondary to respiratory compromise, metabolic acidosis or hyperthermia. Other signs that may be seen include vomiting (common) hyperactivity, depression, coma, behavior alterations, tachycardia, and pulmonary edema.

Asymptomatic animals exposed to moldy foods should be decontaminated via emesis or lavage followed by activated charcoal and cathartic. In symptomatic animals, control of severe tremors or seizures has priority over decontamination. Seizures may respond to diazepam, however others have had better success with methocarbamol (RobaxinÃ’; 55-220 mg/kg IV to effect), especially in seizuring animals. Barbiturates may be used in animals that are unresponsive to other anticonvulsants. Supportive care should include intravenous fluids, thermoregulation, and correction of electrolyte and acid-base abnormalities. In severe cases, signs may persist for several days, and residual fine muscle tremors may take a week or more to fully resolve. Testing of stomach content, suspect foods, or vomitus for tremorgens is available through the Animal Health Diagnostic Laboratory, Michigan State University (517-355-0281).

Monday, April 25, 2011

Common Household Hazards for Dogs and Cats- Part 2

Sharon Gwaltney-Brant DVM, PhD Jill A. Richardson, DVM


Continued - items to watch out for that could harm our pets!


6. Chocolate


There are a wide variety of chocolate and cocoa products to which pets may be exposed, including candies, cakes, cookies, brownies, and cocoa bean mulches. Not surprisingly, the incidence of accidental chocolate exposures in pets occurs around holidays, especially Easter, Halloween and Christmas. The active (toxic) agents in chocolate are methylxanthines, specifically theobromine andcaffeine. Methylxanthines stimulate the CNS, act on the kidney to stimulate diuresis, and increase the contractility of cardiac and skeletal muscle. The relative amounts of theobromine and caffeine will vary with the form of the chocolate (see table).


Cocoa beans may contain up to 255 mg theobromine per ounce of beans, although the exact amount will vary due to natural variation of the cocoa beans. The LD50's of theobromine and caffeine are 100-300 mg/kg, but severe and life threatening clinical signs may be seen at levels far below these doses. Based on NAPCC experience, mild

signs have been seen with theobromine levels of 20 mg/kg, severe signs have been seen at 40-50 mg/kg, and seizures have occurred at 60 mg/kg. Accordingly, less than 2 ounces of milk chocolate per kg is potentially lethal to dogs.


Clinical signs occur within 6-12 hours of ingestion. Initial signs include polydypsia, bloating, vomiting, diarrhea, and restlessness. Signs progress to hyperactivity, polyuria, ataxia, tremors, seizures, tachycardia, PVC's, tachypnea, cyanosis, hypertension, hyperthermia, and coma. Death is generally due to cardiac arrhythmias or respiratory failure. Hypokalemia may occur later in the course of the toxicosis. Because of the high fat content of many chocolate products, pancreatitis is a potential sequela.


Management of chocolate ingestion includes decontamination via emesis followed by gastric lavage. Because methylxanthines undergo enterohepatic recirculation, repeated doses of activated charcoal are usually of benefit in symptomatic animals (vomiting may need to be controlled with metaclopramide). Intravenous fluids at twice maintenance levels will help maintain diuresis and enhance urinary excretion. Because caffeine can be reabsorbed from the bladder, placement of a urinary catheter is recommended. Cardiac status should be monitored via EKG and arrhythmias treated as needed; propranolol reportedly delays renal excretion of methylxanthines, so metoprolol is the beta-blocker of choice. Seizures may be controlled with diazepam or a barbiturate. In severe cases, clinical signs may persist up to 72 hours.


7. Cigarettes


Tobacco products contain varying amounts of nicotine with cigarettes containing 13-30 mg and cigars containing 15-40 mg. Butts contain about 25% of the total nicotine content. The oral LD50 in dogs is 9.2 mg/kg.


Signs often develop quickly (usually within 15-45 minutes) and include excitation, tachypnea, salivation, emesis, and diarrhea. Muscle weakness, twitching, depression, tachycardia, shallow respiration, collapse, coma, and cardiac arrest can follow the period of excitation. Death occurs secondary to respiratory paralysis.

Table of nicotine content of common sources of nicotine.


8. Pennies


Ingestion of coins by pets, especially dogs, is not uncommon. Of the existing US coins currently in circulation, only pennies pose a significant toxicity hazard. Pennies minted since 1983 contain 99.2% zinc and 0.8% copper, making ingested pennies a rich source of zinc. Other potential sources of zinc include hardware such as screws, bolts, nuts, etc., all of which may contain varying amounts of zinc. In the stomach, gastric acids leach the zinc from its source, and the ionized zinc is readily absorbed into the circulation, where it causes intravascular hemolysis.


The most common clinical signs of penny ingestion are vomiting, depression, anorexia, hemoglobinuria, diarrhea, weakness, collapse and icterus. Secondarily, acute renal failure may develop. Clinical laboratory abnormalities will be suggestive of hemolysis (elevated bilirubin, hemoglobinemia, hemoglobinuria, regenerative anemia) and may also indicate the development of kidney failure. Serum zinc levels may be obtained—blood should be collected in all plastic syringes (no rubber grommets) and shipped in Royal blue top vaccutainers to minimize contamination with exogenous zinc. Radiography of the abdomen may reveal the presence of coins or other “hardware” within the stomach.


Treatment for recently ingested pennies would include induction of vomiting. Activated charcoal is not indicated, as it is of little benefit in binding metals. Removal of zinc-containing foreign bodies via endoscopy or gastrotomy/enterotomy may be required. Treatment for symptomatic animals should include blood replacement therapy as needed, intravenous fluids, and other supportive care. The use of chelators may not be necessary in cases where prompt removal of the zinc source is accomplished. If chelation therapy is instituted, careful monitoring of renal parameters is important for the duration of therapy.



Sunday, April 24, 2011

Common Household Hazards for Dogs and Cats - Part 1

Sharon Gwaltney-Brant DVM, PhD Jill A. Richardson, DVM

ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center



This is timely reminder for everyone as we prepare to do our Spring cleaning to check our homes for these hazards to protect our pets



1. Ant Baits


Ant and roach baits are common objects found in households. They are also referred to as hotels, traps, or stations. The insecticides used most commonly in these baits are chlorpyrifos, sulfluramid, fipronil, avermectin, boric acid, and hydramethylnon. . The baits usually contain inert ingredients such as peanut butter, breadcrumbs, sugar and vegetable or animal, which could be attracting to pets. Exposures to these types of ant baits usually do not require decontamination or treatment. Most often, if signs are seen at all, they are mild in nature and self-limiting and are usually attributed to the inert ingredients instead of the active ingredient.


2. Silica Gel Packets


Silica gel is used as a dessicant and often come in paper packets or plastic cylinders. They are used to absorb moisture with leather, medication, and in some food packaging. Silica is considered "chemically and biologically inert" upon ingestion. However, with ingestion, it is possible to see signs of GI upset, such as nausea, vomiting, and inappetence. Additional problems could occur is the silica gel was used as a dessicant in medication, since silica could possibly absorb qualities of the medication.



3. Toilet Water (Tank drop-ins)


Tank "drop in" products typically contain corrosive agents (alkali or cationic detergents.) However, when a tank

"drop in" cleaning product is used in a toilet, the actual concentration of the cleaner is very low in the bowl. With dilution by the bowl water, the cleaning agent is just a gastric irritant. Common signs seen with ingestion include mild vomiting and nausea.


4. Birth Control Pills


Each packet of oral contraceptives contains 21 tablets of estrogen and/or progesterone and possibly 7 placebo pills. Estrogen could cause bone marrow suppression at levels greater than 1 mg/kg. Some oral contraceptives also contain iron. Decontamination is not necessary unless the level of estrogen is greater than 1mg/kg or the level of iron is greater than 20mg/kg.


5. Liquid Potpourri


Liquid potpourri may contain essential oils and cationic detergents; because product labels may not list ingredients, it is wise to assume that a given liquid potpourri contains both ingredients. Essential oils can cause mucous membrane and gastrointestinal irritation, central nervous system depression, and dermal hypersensitivity and irritation. Severe clinical signs can be seen with potpourri products that contain cationic detergents. Dermal exposure to cationic detergents can result in erythema, edema, intense pain, and ulceration. Ingestion of cationic detergents may lead to tissue necrosis and inflammation of the mouth, esophagus, and stomach. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive (see Cationic Detergent section).

Sunday Sweets

Sunday is full of SWEETS! Each week we will showcase the sweeter side of Cairns. If you have a sweet filled cairn and would like us to consider YOUR picture for an upcoming "Sunday Sweets" send it to us at cpcrnblog@gmail.com! (All photo submissions become the property of CPCRN and may be used for fundraising, promotion and/or outreach purposes.)

Zander



Peglette


Wookie


Laney

Friskers


Corky, Gilly and Janna

Saturday, April 23, 2011

EASTER ARRIVES EARLY TO CP!

Written by CP's VP of Intakes



I'm going to make this short and sweet ... TAKE ONE LOOK AT THIS FACE, and then you will understand why our New Leash on Life fundraiswers are so important to CP and Cairns.

Please meet Easter, a 2 year old female who found freedom with Col. Potter this week.

Without your support, she would not be free today.

Five Dangerous Easter Plants

Posted by DogToys.com


Here is a short list of plants that you see this time of year that are toxic to both dogs and cats







Easter Lily (ALL Lilies)While Easter Lilies are not toxic to dogs they are highly toxic to cats and can cause immediate kidney failure with only one leaf eaten. Other lilies such as the Calla Lily and the Day Lily are toxic to dogs. Symptoms include vomiting, lethargy, excessive drinking and urination.




HyacinthThis flower is part of the lily family and can be highly poisonous. Symptoms include: Intense vomiting, diarrhea (occasionally with blood), depression and tremors.













Daffodil The bulb of this flower is the most dangerous part, but any part of the plant can cause sever problems. Symptoms of ingestion are vomiting, salvation, and diarrhea. If a large amount is eaten it can cause convulsions, low blood pressure, tremors and cardiac arrhythmias.





TulipAgain this flower is in the same family as the lily and like the Daffodil the bulb has the highest amounts of toxins. Symptoms to watch for are vomiting, depression, diarrhea, and extreme or hypersalivation.






Easter RoseThis plant is also known as Hellebore, Christmas Rose, or Lenten Rose. It is not a rose at all rather a bushy stalk with pinkish white flowers. Symptoms of ingestion are drooling, abdominal pain, diarrhea, colic, and depression.



Please be sure to place these plants in a safe spot where your pets cannot get to them.

Friday, April 22, 2011

Eraser says : Easter Proclamation

Written by Eraser, mayor of Inwood



His Honor the Mayor Eraser, hereby proclaims, safe passage will be granted to one called The Easter Bunny, thru the city boundry of the town of Inwood Pa. for 1 night only hereby called Easter Eve, The Easter bunny will not be harmed by dog or man in this town, but next night he better not show his fuzzy tail or else he better have left over snacks to pay for safe passage, Eraser mayor of Inwood.

Eraser and Cindy U. are being fostered in Pennsylvania and you can learn more about him and the other cairns available for adoption by clicking here.

Friday's Funnies!

Raising Duncan

by Chris Browne

Thursday, April 21, 2011

Taming Tip from Taming the Wild Side Dog Training

Contributed by Terri Elkins, Owner / Trainer -



Taming the Wild Side Dog Training



Note from from CP Blogger: We would like to thank Terri Elkins for allowing us to post her weekly taming tips on our blog. Her training facility is located in Fort Worth, Texas.


Each week we'll share a Taming Tip for you, your family and friends to do with your dog(s)! These tips will help teach your dog real world manners in a fun way. Leave us a comment and tell us how it went!

Taming Tip #10:

Take your dog and sit outside on your front or back porch, or go to a park and sit on a bench or just on the grass. Relax with your dog and every time your dog gets quiet when distractions appear, click and give him a treat. If your dog is focused on a distraction, patiently wait, and when he turns and looks at you click and give him a treat for checking in with you


Please click here to visit their blog.

Please Welcome Laney

Written by a CP Intakes volunteer



Just imagine the confusion this little cairn experienced when she, along with her 2 housemates, got dropped off at a shelter after living in their home for over 9 years. The shelter contacted us asking for help, because 10 year old dogs seldom get adopted. Thanks to several dedicated Col. Potter volunteers, she was rescued from the shelter and delivered to our vet very quickly. To make things worse, she picked up kennel cough at the shelter. She spent several extra days at the vet in isolation while being treated and has been cough and sneeze free for several days now.

Laney is 10 years old and a little overweight. The vet staff describes her as sweet, friendly and quiet. They also said one of the office cats spends hours sitting by her cage, keeping her company. And she’s just fine with having the company!

She’ll be heading to her foster home on Thursday. And another big “thanks” to several volunteers for making this happen.

Welcome to the family little lady!

Wednesday, April 20, 2011

10 Things Pet Parents Should Consider When Buying a New Home

by Jane Miller




1. Fences - Not only do they make “good neighbors” but also protect our pets from the native prey in the low country, mainly alligators and snakes. If the home does not have a fence, consider the cost of putting one in as part of the purchase budget and negotiations.

2. Hardwood floors – They look beautiful, but can get easily scratched, and it may be difficult for some dogs to get traction when playing or greeting us. This can hurt their legs and hips. Make sure you have plenty of area rugs where they can be comfortable.

3. Stairs - Many homes in the Charleston area are elevated, which may be a challenge for an elderly or small dog. You should consider your dog’s ability to get up and down. An elevator can be a solution, but an expensive one.

4. Yard Space - Lot sizes along the coast tend to be relatively small,. Determine if it is sufficient for exercising your dog. It may not be a problem for a small breed, but a large breed may need more space.

5. HOA Covenants & Restrictions – Make sure you have read the C&Rs for a neighborhood or complex to make sure there are no restrictions on number of pets, breeds, or noise ordinances.

6. Outdoor Spigot – Having the beach nearby and ponds in some of the dog parks are wonderful. Having sand in your car becomes the norm, and having an outdoor spigot for bathing your pet before coming into the home is a must. An outdoor shower is even better.

7. Previous Pets – Ask your Realtor to find out if the previous homeowners had dogs. Often, dogs will naturally mark their territory and often will pee in the same spot. Make sure the carpeting has been well scrubbed and deodorized.

8. Street Traffic – Even the most well-behaved and trained dog can bolt out of the house if there is something compelling enough to see or sniff. Consider the traffic before buying a new home on a busy street.

9. Pet Friendly – Take the time to drive around a neighborhood at different times a day to see if folks are walking their dogs. A neighborhood that exercises with their dogs will be just the kind that you would enjoy.

10. Dog Parks – Find out where the nearest dog parks are and whether or not they have shade, water, pond, and a designated area for both big and small dogs. You may even want to visit the park before taking your dog.

Jane Miller is a Realtor of Distinction, an East Cooper Top Producer and an Accredited Buyers Representative at Carolina One Real Estate. She's also a pet parent to two labradors.

Wacky Wednesday!


Wednesday is the day to be WACKY! Each week we will showcase a terrierific cairn picture with an appropriate caption. If you have a terrierific cairn and would like us to consider YOUR picture and caption for an upcoming "Wacky Wednesday" send it to us at cpcrnblog@gmail.com! (All photo submissions become the property of CPCRN and may be used for fundraising, promotion and/or outreach purposes.)

A big shout out to Sadie for being our Wacky Wednesday model this week!

Tuesday, April 19, 2011

Get Earth-Day Ready: Reduce Your Pet’s Carbon Paw-print



Earth Day is this coming Friday, April 22. What better time to do a little more to help the environment? If you own a pet, there are lots of great things you can do. Here are a few tips to help you cut down on waste and raise your pet’s quality of life. You may even save a little money while you color your corner of the world green.


Scoop your poop.

American dogs and cats create 10 million tons of waste a year. By picking up after your pooch with biodegradable plastic bags or paper bags, you can keep your pet’s waste from spending years encased in plastic.

Clean green.

Here’s a great way to clean up your pet’s accidents on the rug or sofa without harmful bleaches and toxins. First, scrub the soiled area with club soda and let dry. Then, sprinkle with baking soda to help control odors. After an hour or so, vacuum thoroughly. The ACPCA also recommends using diluted white vinegar as an environmentally friendly alternative to commercial products. What’s more, you’ll save money on pricey pet cleaning supplies.

Give bottles the boot.

Offer your pet filtered tap water instead of bottled to drink. If you must use bottled in a pinch, be sure to recycle. Dine in. Want to know exactly what is going into your pet’s food? Make your own organic puppy or kitty chow. While the idea of becoming a fulltime pet chef may be too much, ask your vet about occasionally adding chopped apples, carrots, or greens to your pet’s usual feeding.

Walk this way.

Did you know that 40 percent of daily car trips in the U.S. are 2 miles or less? By strolling to the doggie park rather than driving, you not only save fossil fuels, you get in a little exercise to boot.

Throw in the towel.

As sheets or towels start to wear, re-use them as doggie bedding, to clean up accidents, or to dry your pooch off after bath time instead of blow-drying. Old towels also make a great chew toy: braid strips into a rope for playing tug-o-war.

Bulk up.

Buy pet supplies in bulk or the largest available size. You’ll not only throw away less packaging, you’ll make fewer car trips to the store.

Pick your litter.

Up to 8 billion pounds of cat litter wind up in U.S. landfills each year. Instead of using clumping clay litter, try products made from recycled newspapers or sawdust for a chemical-free, environmentally safe litter box.

Give back.

Doing a little spring cleaning? Before tossing your old treasures away, call local animal shelters and ask if they need used towels, bedding, leashes, litter boxes, and pet toys.

ID your pet .

Losing your pet can cause more than just emotional distress. It can cause paper waste from printing out missing posters, plus additional fuel costs from driving around your neighborhood in search of Fido. By keeping your pet’s profile up to date and adding an ID tag to their collar, you’re taking an important step in helping the environment (and your pet). Remember, even small changes can have an important impact. So look for ways you can cut back a little, re-use when possible, and help make the world a better place. Best of all, you’ll be doing something nice for your pet—and your wallet.


Monday, April 18, 2011

Skin Cancer Awareness Month

Animal Medical Center
Mt Pleasant, SC

Skin Cancer Awareness Month

Cancer is one of the primary killers of dogs and cats- when caught early we

can often improve the outcome or cure the problem.

April 11, 2011 to May 7, 2011

Take this opportunity to have your pet evaluated for skin cancer . Allow your veterinarian to examine your pet's lumps and bumps. Any diagnostic aspirates are an additional charge. Many small skin masses can be removed at the time of the exam without general anesthesia and at low cost.

Skin cancers range from small flash colored nodules, flat pigmented areas, to large ulcerated masses. Some are benign, some are highly malignant. Many benign skin masses can be removed with local anesthesia and laser ablation while others need excision and biopsy to evaluate for malignancy.

As your dogs and cats age, many develop small unsightly cauliflower or wart-like growths on their body called sebaceous adenomas. These are benign growths, yet dogs tend to chew them or they may be clipped off while grooming. Most are smaller than a pencil eraser.

Examples of masses that can easily be removed. Does your pet have similar masses?




There is no time like the present to see if your dog or cat has an unusual growth that needs to be checked out.

PLEASE WELCOME TWO NEW CUTIES TO THE CP FAMILY!

Written by CP's VP of Intakes

Tried and convicted, no chance to be adopted. Their only crime ... being a Cairn. What are the chances of two little female Cairns finding their way to the same shelter from different owners at the same time, then being tried and convicted for being typical Cairns. Their crimes included possessiveness towards treats and food and being nervous and barky. Their only hope -- a rescue to pull them and quickly as they were at a large metropolitan shelter that takes in way too many dogs each and every day. Lucky for them, Col. Potter was able to grant them a full pardon and they are both now enjoying their spa treatment before heading to foster homes this weekend.

Please help me welcome our two newest cuties:

Leila: Female, black brindle, 17lbs, born 3/26/10 - Leila in Persian means dark hair




Flavia: Female, wheaten, 13lbs, born 4/3/09 - Flavia in Roman means yellow hair




Please remember the New Leash on Life is still running through Sunday, 4/17. We have a long way to go for a sell-out. Without the support from NLOL, many little Cairns like Leila and Flavia would not have an opportunity for a happily ever after. We also need foster homes.

Leila and Flavia, our dark and yellow haired cuties, WELCOME to the CP FAMILY!

Sunday, April 17, 2011

Dr. Seuss Puppy Videos - 8 Weeks

Contributed by Aphrodite and her puppies' foster mom

Just an update on the puppies at 8 weeks. Here are 3 new movies. Taking pictures of dark puppies is not easy. lol

The first 2 were taken last night, when they were tired. The last one was first thing this morning (not so tired - lol). Star is the one with her ear folded back in the last video.



If you aren’t able to view the YouTube video click here.




If you aren’t able to view the YouTube video click here.




If you aren’t able to view the YouTube video click here.

The puppies got their first set of shots almost 2 weeks ago. Their mama was spayed and had her dental today.

Sunday Sweets

Rocky

Kayla & Sadie

Abelard

Corky

Bea

Saturday, April 16, 2011

Who's on First?? Why it's Abbott & Costello!

Written by a CP Intakes volunteer

Who doesn't remember the legendary skit "Who's on First" with Abbott & Costello? It was and still is amusing to watch providing us with ongoing antics and frivolity. Now Col. Potter has its' very own Abbott & Costello!

Here's their story: One day a kind lady noticed two young small dogs meandering in the neighborhood on an adventure. Soon she realized these boys had no idea where they were! She scooped the boys up for their own safety. After finding no I.D. or microchips, she proceeded to put a "Found Dogs" program into action. Posters, phone calls, fliers - all resources used. No one came looking for these young boys. Maybe they weren't strays after all, maybe they had been abandoned. We'll never know and they're not telling. After several weeks of no results, their caretaker contacted Col. Potter for help. They were described them as silly little boys always looking for mischief! What one doesn't do, the other one will. Now that's a description of young cairns, isn't it??

Abbott, the wheaten boy, is estimated to be 2 years old.




His sidekick, Costello, the black brindle pup, is 6 to 8 months old.



Both boys are undergoing their spa treatment right now. The vet reports both to be healthy, active boys. Please welcome Abbott & Costello!!

~A KISS SAVED FOR LATER~

Written by a CP Intakes volunteer



Do you remember the 'Sealed with A Kiss' kids- Sarut, Bacio, Kisu, Suudella, Fili, and Halik? For those new to Col. Potter, this group was part of a seizure in which six of twelve cairns were considered needing rescue help. The other six were adopted out by the receiving shelter.

Last week CP was contacted again by that same shelter. One of the six adopted out was returned, due to reportedly not getting along well with the resident dogs in the adoptive home. They felt that he had his best chance with cairn rescue, and reached out for help.

SO please give a huge CP welcome to JOCKO, the KISS that was saved for later! He is estimated to be 5 years old, a stunning red wheaten, and a bit scared right now given all the changes in the past week. He is B&Bing and will move to a foster home this weekend.

Friday, April 15, 2011

Eraser Says

Written by CP's foster Eraser


"Another reason not to have a dog on the bed is they will spill your beer and step in your salsa as they try to take a corn chip"

Eraser and Cindy U are being fostered in Pennsylvania and you can learn more about him and the other cairns available for adoption by clicking here.

Friday's Funnies

Raising Duncan by Chris Browne

Thursday, April 14, 2011

Water Bowl for Travel.........

Contributed by a CP Volunteer



We found the best thing for the girls traveling water bowl problem.
We have been using the "Water-Hole" bowl, bowl with a white lid that is suppose to keep the water from spilling........ Which has not worked for us in our travels over bumpy roads, spills water no matter what.

Today, while I was at Kahoots Animal & Supply store - I found this - Took the chance - $14.99 and it works! It holds 3 quarts of water - only dispenses 1/2 inch at a time.Pours back into itself.

You can turn it upside down and it does not leak. And the girls love it. We have tried many type bowls - always having to pour the water out when we are on the move, especially in the Polaris - not with this!

It is called "Lixit Dog Travel Water Bowl" And it is made in the U.S.A. - Napa, CA. Now - no more wasted water while out camping and having to mess with their portable water dish.

We had to share our excitement with you! Please consider this if you need a doggie water bowl for travel!

Welcome to CP Bryant!

Contributed by a CP Intakes Volunteer


Bryant spent the first 10 years of his life with a back yard breeder. When he was no longer able to complete his job, he was given to an elderly woman. This new owner kept him outside, in a back yard pen. Poor Bryant, he went from one back yard to another. Within months, Bryant's new owner fell on ill health, and CP was asked to take him into the rescue. Reportedly, Bryant is a friendly little man, and good with children and other dogs.

Let’s give Bryant a warm CP welcome.

Wednesday, April 13, 2011

Dogs in Toyland ... and What to do When the Urge to Chew Knows No Bounds

from petmd.com

It must be Spring. In Miami, it's not always so easy to tell. So you
know how I know it's here? The season's very first pair of cool[-ish]
weather slippers got shredded last night by a dog with an overzealous
chew drive.

You'd think that with all the toys lying strewn about — compared with
the off-limits placement of the shoes — there'd be no mistaking the
permissible from the illicit. Yet that's rarely the case when it
comes to my dogs' impressive chew drive — less still with respect to
a nice new pair of enticingly fuzzy slippers.

Now, you wouldn't think that with my mix of critters I'd have so much
trouble with the canine need to masticate for no discernible reason
(from a human's perspective, that is), but even the two dogs whose
jaws don't properly meet manifest a strong penchant for sexy
stilettos and display a corresponding disdain for "dog toys."

What's a responsible dog owner to do? (Besides take better care of
her stuff, I mean.)

All this illegal chewing is why I find myself pulling my hair out …
frequently. With Vincent it's the glasses. He has a thing for
expensive plastic frames. (Prada, anyone?) Good thing I finally
learned to keep my glasses on a short leash.

Not so with my shoes, seeing as I wear at least four different pairs
every day (you would too if you milked a goat twice a day, worked out
at lunch and held three different jobs). Add in a twelve year-old
with a constitutional inability to close a door behind him and you've
got trouble.

OK, so back to the point of this post (or was it a plea?). I'm
looking for toys. Great dog toys to be exact. (I usually write a
cat-toy post for the holidays, so save your good feline fun things
for then … or offer them up anyway if you really can't control the
urge to share your great find.)

The ideal dog toy for me? Here's my wish list:

Attractive (to the dog) almost immediately (though I can wait a quiet
hour or two for an exuberant interest to develop).

Enticing enough to engender a willingness to chew said thing in the
crate (or otherwise independently) for a prolonged period of time
without the need for direct observation. Repeatedly.

It can't fall apart under vigorous dental pressure. Too many toy
makers say their toys are indestructible, and yet the next day
they're in pieces in the feces. (Kong, Orbee-Tuff and Busy-Buddy
people, are you listening?)

The object can't be so hard that I might potentially end up with an
expensive root canal on my hands.

The ideal toy should offer me options for when it starts to get
boring to the dog. For example, it should have a spot for an add-on
element or a cavity for hiding treats.

It should be easy to clean.

I prefer toys that look cool strewn about my home. (Seriously, I
think both pet and kid toys should be well designed and aesthetically
pleasing.)

It shouldn't cost a mint. After all, I've yet to find a toy that
meets all the above criteria.


OK, so I have to admit that there are a few toys that have come close
to making me very, very happy. Here's that list:

I love this giant purple Wubba throw toy we've got. It's made of
heavy-duty nylon and while it doesn't get tons of attention, it's a
toy they consistently drag out at least once a week. It has so far
proved indestructible … and I like its looks.

The ubiquitous rope thing. It's like the Wubba. Only more bare bones.
It's trouble is the same, however. It's a great toy for throwing but
it doesn't inspire independent play too often. And if it did, I
suspect they'd kill it quickly.

The small, AKC-branded stuffed animals. These are the kind of toys my
small guys can use to play an excellent game of keepaway from the
bigger guys. The min-pin foster-dog (Gastón) loves the little fox,
but I've also seen Pinky pick it up and throw it around for no good
reason. It washes surprisingly well. And for some reason I cannot
fathom, no one ever tries to take it apart.

Raw lamb shank. Though a one-time-only deal - it's not renewable,
it's very messy, expensive, and plus, you've gotta observe the play
and take it away as soon as you hear tooth meet bone - it's simply
the best.

OK, so I'm done. Now it's your turn.

Dr. Patty Khuly