Benefits of Having Pet Insurance

If you are not convinced that pet insurance is worthwhile, consider this: An emergency procedure like treating parvo without insurance can cost $457; however, with insurance for the same quality of treatment, after reimbursement will cost $237. While the savings alone is enough reason for many pet owners, there are several other benefits to having pet insurance. These benefits of pet insurance are:

• Proper pet insurance coverage protects one from having to make life and death decisions, based primarily on cost. Consequently, one can have peace of mind, security and less stress when it comes to their pet receiving veterinary attention.
• Financially, pet insurance is a small price to pay when one looks at what long term or emergency vet pet services can cost.
• Some policies will cover everything from preventative treatments and checkups to covering the cost of boarding or kenneling related to illness or treatment. Some policies even provide for kenneling while the family is traveling or will refund the cancellation fee in the even that you have to cancel your trip due to your pet’s illness or medical emergency.
• The large majority of vets accept pet insurance, providing you bring along the client card or policy documentation information.

What to Look for When Selecting a Pet Insurance Provider

If you are now thinking that having pet insurance would be a wise thing to do, you may be wondering what to look for in a pet insurance provider. After all, you want a policy that meets your pet’s needs, your needs and your budget. So, to help you select a pet insurance provider, here are a few things to keep in mind.

• The age of your pet-Some policies cease coverage past a specific age.
• Percentage coverage-Be sure to compare the amounts covered for specific aspects of your pet’s life. You will also want to be sure that the policy will cover enough of your pet’s needs to be useful. Check the per-incident limit and lifetime limits allowed.
• Waiting periods—Is there a waiting period before you can file your first claim?
• Accident coverage versus an accident and combined illness coverage- This varies from provider to provider be sure you understand what is covered before signing the policy rather than learning later on.
• Is there a discount for insuring more than one pet and if so, what is it?
• Does the plan limit your choices for what type of treatment is covered? You and your vet should be able to choose the best plan of action for your pet…not the insurance policy.
• Find out if they allow you to choose any vet you wish or do you have to use their particular network of vets. You will likely want to be able to use your current vet versus having to transition to a new one.
• Call their customer service center and see if they can answer any questions you may have in a friendly, prompt manner. After all, in the event of an emergency, you want someone who is helpful, knowledgeable and cares about your pet’s best interest.
• Find out if the pet insurance provider is licensed in your state as that means that the government regulates the company.
• Some breeds of dogs have specific medical conditions that may be excluded from the policy, be sure that the policy you are considering clearly states if this is the case.
• Reputation is everything! In addition to talking to your vet, talk to other pet owners to get their impressions/experiences regarding pet insurance. Look for online reviews on customer services, coverage, etc.

Pet ownership is fulfilling and rewarding for both you and your pet. Be sure to take the time to have the pet insurance you need so you can take care of your pet’s health. If you would like to learn more about pet insurance providers, give SleepEas…Zz a call. We will be happy to share our experiences with you.

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“Animals are such agreeable friends; they ask no questions, they pass no criticisms.” George Elliot

“Dogs have owners; cats have staff.” Anonymous

Pet ownership is many things-some wonderful, others, not so much. However, as a pet owner it is vital that you give your furry friend(s) the best care possible. So, as 2011 draws to a close, why not make some New Year’s resolutions that have your pet in mind? (Of course, if the resolutions benefit you as well, then even better!) To help you create a pet owner’s New Year’s Resolutions list of your own, here are 10 things to get you started:

1. Get healthier – Decide to provide your pet with the best care possible. Don’t just buy whatever food is on sale, take some time to research what type(s) of food are best for your pet(s). This will also add quality of life for your pet. In addition to healthier food, make sure that your pet has regular veterinary check-ups. It is important that pets are up to date on their vaccinations, flea and heartworm treatments.
2. Slim down – Just as many people resolve to lose weight each year, it is important that you help your pet slim down as well. Sadly, many pet owners do not realize that an overweight animal is not only detrimental to their pet’s quality of life but their quantity of life as well. Helping your pet slim down by getting some exercise through walking around the block each day will not only benefit one’s pet, but helps the owner stay active as well.
3. Play around – Exercise doesn’t have to feel like “work”. Take time each day to play with your pet. Whether it is  a rousing game of fetch, tug-a-war, dangling a string throughout the house or playing chase in the backyard or park will not only strengthen the bond between you and your pet, but will bring smiles to your face and that happy tail wagging to your pet.
4. Train your pet – Whether you do this yourself or hire a professional to do this for you, a well-trained pet has much more freedom, which means you as the owner does too!
5. Determine not to get mad at your pet because of your management failures. If you don’t want Fido chewing on your slippers, then put them away in your room and close the door. Don’t fuss because your pet found the slippers in the living room and behaved true to form.
6. Pay attention – Always be aware of what your pet enjoys, doesn’t like or perhaps stresses them out and do your part to help your pet be happy. The more you understand your pet, the better your relationship.
7. Be responsible – Keep identification tags on your pets, renew your license, clean up behind them (don’t forget the litter box!) obey leash laws, etc…
8. Pet proofed – Take time to check fences for holes or loose boards; make sure your gates latch properly, and, if necessary, that pools or ponds are pet-proofed. Inside the home, make sure that toxic substances are put up, electrical cords are placed out of harm’s way and that “large” items that could fall on your pet are located where they will not be safety hazards.
9. Keeping clean- Make sure that your pet gets regular grooming. From nail trimming and teeth brushing to brushing their coat, these actions will help not only build camaraderie between you and your pet, but will also help you be aware of any lumps, bumps or growths that could be dangerous; if you find any abnormalities get it check out by your vet.

10.  Carrier training- If your pet is a cat or small dog, teaching them to ride in a carrier will make trips- especially those to the vet- easier for you both.

Like these resolutions? Perhaps there are other things that you think should be included? If so, please share them with us—we would love to hear from you!

Have a safe and merry Christmas from all of us here at Sleep Eas..Zzz!

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• To develop a well-respected canine citizen
• To build a strong owner-dog relationship that is based on trust, cooperation and understanding of the pet owner relationship
• To promote confidence in and control of your dog, regardless of a situation
• To learn to  work with your pet’s strengths and weaknesses
• To build a bond between you and your dog that can last a lifetime.

Different Obedience Training Commands

So, what types of commands are taught in obedience training? Here is a list of the common commands used in obedience training:

Stay – The dog must remain in the requested position (sit, stand, down) until the command is revoked.

Sit – Dog should sit down

Down – Dog will have its elbows and rear legs touching the floor/ground

Here/Come – Calling your dog results in his coming to where you are

These common commands will make pet ownership, and your pet’s interactions with other people or animals, more successful and pleasant. Of course, if you want to give your pet an even greater sense of accomplishment, there are more than a dozen advanced commands an obedience trainer (or you) can teach them. Some of these include:

Stop/Platz – Teaches the dog to stop (platz is German for “stop”) what they are doing and lie down; a dog who masters this command can be taken anywhere.

Steady- Tells the dog to stay nearby; they can walk around but not wander away.

Back up – Perfect for large, in particular, aggressive breeds to help make people more comfortable. The dogs are taught to back up on command.

Leave it/drop it – Directs the dog not to touch something.

Take it – Tells the dog to pick up an item and hold on to it.

Give – Tells the dog to place an item in the command givers hand.

Tips for Training your Dog

If you would like for your dog to follow your commands, then you have a couple of options- train Fido yourself or pay an obedience trainer to do it for you. If you opt for the former, here are a few things to keep in mind.

• Positive reinforcement- This will result in repeatable, predictable results. When your pet is rewarded for doing well, they are more likely to do the “action” again. If you opt to have someone train your dog for you, be sure to find out if they use positive or negative reinforcement. Negative reinforcement may include speaking harshly, hitting or shaming the dog and will result in unpredictable and even aggressive behavior.
• Scheduled training- Having a specific time each day for training will make it easier for you and your pet to know what to expect. Consider doing your training before mealtime doing your training before mealtime, or another daily routine your pet enjoys, as your pet will associate training time to be followed with something “more fun”.
• Keep it short- Most dogs have a short attention span, so limit training to less than 10 minutes daily.
• Have a plan- Determine what commands and signals you want to use, before you begin.
• Be consistent- Don’t keep changing commands/signals each time you train as that will confuse and frustrate your dog. Also, determine how long/where you want your dog to sit, stay, stand, etc.
• Use a clicker- This is a great teaching too but can take practice on your part to be consistent and effective.

Local Obedience Trainers

If you are interested in your dog receiving obedience training, but want someone else to do it, then check out these local obedience trainers:

·K9 Solutions LLC

www.nck9solutions.com
(919) 779-3813

·Dog Training In Your Home

betterdog.com
(919) 872-2221

·PetSmart

stores.petsmart.com
(919) 544-9902

·Teamworks Dog Training

www.dogtrainingraleighnc.net
(919) 855-0422

·CareFirst Animal Hospital at Oberlin

www.carefirstanimalhospital.com
(919) 832-3107

·Canine Country Club & Pet Hotel

www.canineclubandpet.com

(919) 876-9538

·Dog Dynamics LLC

www.dogdynamicsnc.com

(919) 349-2267

Of course, here at Sleep Eas…Zz, we know the importance of having a well-trained dog. If you have any questions regarding dog obedience training, please let us know. We will be happy to help.

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There are numerous indicators of pet stress, but sometimes we miss them (perhaps due to dealing with our stresses?) and our pets continue to suffer. Once you have learned how to recognize pet stress, you will be better able to help prevent it. Here are some tips and potential remedies for reducing pet anxiety and stress.

1. Ways to Keep Your Pet Stress Free
   1. Be sure your pet gets plenty of exercise each day.
   2. Have toys that provide plenty of stimuli so that your pet doesn’t laze around while you are at work.
   3. Variety is the spice of life. When you take your pet for a walk, vary the route and the pace.
   4. Don’t discipline your pet with yelling or hitting as this causes fear and anxiety.
   5. Despite the prevalent belief that getting a companion pet for your current pet, sometimes this can actually trigger more pet stress, especially if your pet has a more laidback personality.
2. How to Help Your Pet Deal with Stress

Different species of pets react to stress in different manners. However, right now, we will focus on the most common of household pets-dogs and cats.

1. Dogs
   1. If possible, take a play break as often as you can. Remember “all work and no play” isn’t just unhealthy for people, pets need to play too.
   2. Use calming signals such as yawning, blinking your eyes, looking away rather than making eye contact or taking a deep breath then sighing.
   3. Allow yourself to relax. Remember, pets often notice the moods of those around them.
   4. Talk calmly to your dog to let them know everything is okay.
   5. Cats
      1. Install magnetic cat flaps to lower the likelihood of another animal entering the house.
      2. Remove the cat from the stressful environment.
      3. Remove the anxiety-causing element from the cat’s environment.
      4. Preventative medicine

If you are getting a kitten, then this is the best time to teach your pet how to deal with stressors. Rather than sheltering them from chaotic sights, loud sounds, odd smells and new people, it is actually better to introduce these elements to your kitten-ideally between 2 and 7 weeks.

Of course, perhaps the most well-known, even by non-pet owners, is a trip to the vet. So, what is it about the vet that causes a normally docile pet to behave like something out of Stephen King’s Pet Cemetery? Is there anything pet owners can do to make a visit to the vet less stressful? Perhaps, there is something your vet could do? Here are some basic methods pet owners can employ to help alleviate vet stress.

1. Reducing Pet Stress at the Vet

Pets don’t realize that it is the vet’s job to help them feel better, so it is up to people to do everything possible to make vet visits as positive an experience as possible. There are a variety of actions we can take to make pet visits less stressful. Some of these include:

1. We need to remain calm and have a lighthearted demeanor. Remember, your pet can sense your feelings, so if you are uptight, so will they!
2. If you go to a vet who doesn’t offer treats as rewards/incentives, then find a new one. Positive reinforcement goes a long way toward reducing pet stress.
3. Is your pet more comfortable with one gender over another? Choose your vet with this in mind.
4. Visit the vet with your pet in tow, just to say “Hi” as this will help your pet build a stronger rapport with their vet. Be sure always have your pet’s favorite treat on hand for the occasion.
5. Exercise your pet before going for a checkup; a tired pet is less likely to have the energy to be upset.
6. Take your pet for rides to locations other than the vet’s office so they don’t associate car rides only with vet visits.
7. Beginning early in your pets life, make it part of the daily routine to check their eyes, ears, mouth and paws as rub them all over as this will get them accustomed to being touched.
8. Eliminate fears you can control. If there are certain words, or objects, that cause a negative reaction, then don’t introduce them at the vet’s office.
9. Distract your pet with a favorite toy.

If being at the vet still results in anxiety, despite having tried these tips, find out if your area has a mobile veterinary service. These are great as they allow your pet to get the medical treatment/immunizations they need, but in a place where they feel comfortable.

We hope that these tips and strategies help you in dealing with pet stress. If we can be of any additional help please let us know.  Here at Sleep Eas..ZZ, we want to see you and your pet happy and stress free!

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1. How do I know if my pet has fleas, before they start incessant scratching? Brush over your pet with a damp white sheet or paper towel. If there are any small dark spots, then you need to take action to get rid of the fleas.
2. Are fleas and ticks no longer a problem when summer ends? No. Lower temperatures do not equal the absence of pests. It is recommended that you still apply flea and tick control products until after extreme winter conditions become common.
3. Can the same flea products be used for both dogs and cats? No. Many of the products designed for dogs are harmful, and even fatal if used on your feline friends.
4. What is the best way to prevent fleas and ticks? Use monthly topicals to protect your pets from discomfort, prevent spreading and avoid possible infestation. Of course, using pest repellants and insecticides, medicated flea collars plus cleaning and fumigating their play areas often will also lower the chances of fleas and ticks.
5. What preventative measures can be taken for outdoor pets? If you have outdoor pets, or bring your pets outside to play, be sure that their area is free of leave piles, brush and tall grass. In addition, brush your pets thoroughly when they come back inside.
6. What problems are caused by fleas and ticks? Ticks transfer Lyme Disease, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and Ehrilchios, to name a few. Fleas can cause tapeworms, hair loss due to the intense and frequent scratching done by the animal, skin irritation and even anemia in kittens and puppies. It should also be noted that people are susceptible to some of these problems due to being exposed to an animal that is carrying it.
7. I have heard that spot-on flea and tick control products can be dangerous. Is this true? Yes. The EPA released a warning in 2010 alerting pet owners to this fact. Along with the warning, there were marketing changes made requiring better labeling, clearer dosage guidelines and specific restrictions for some of the ingredients.
8. Are there breeds of dogs that are more susceptible to adverse side effects of pest control? Yes. Mixed breeds as well as the Chihuahuas, Shih Tzu, Miniature poodles, Pomeranians, Dachshund, Maltese, Yorkshire Terriers and the Bichon Frise have the highest risks.
9. Are there any natural alternatives to medicated pest control items? Yes, there are quite a few options. Here are a few  suggestions from the American Holistic Veterinary Medicine Association to implement into your pet care routine:

• Fresh garlic and brewer’s yeast can be given to dogs and cats to prevent internal and external parasites. Talk to your vet to determine the proper amount for your pet.
• Essential oils such as lavender, peppermint, geranium, lemon grass and citronella work great as parasite deterrents. You will also want to talk to your vet to determine the proper dosage.
• Cedar oil can be used to eliminate fleas and ticks from the body of your pet.
• Use shampoos that contain D-limonene, natural citrus extract, as this will help eliminate fleas and ticks.
• Add a small amount of apple cider vinegar to your pet’s water to help prevent ticks.
• When taking your pets outside, many holistic veterinarians recommend applying eucalyptus and citronella oil to the pet’s collar or on a bandana to be worn by the pet. Also, it is not recommended to ever treat cats with a topical natural treatment!

The best way to protect your pets from pest is by being proactive. After all, you want your pets to happy and healthy for a long time. By using these preventatives, you can do just that. If you have more questions or concerns, talk to your vet or contact us here at Sleep Eas…ZZ , we’re glad to help!

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Create an Allergy-free Environment

• Have at least one room-at minimum the allergy sufferer’s room-where the pet is not allowed.
• Have seating that is just for the person(s) with pet allergies.
• Use leather furniture and install hardwood or smooth flooring rather than carpet as they are easier to clean and do not hold particles. It is also recommended that you limit the amount of draperies.
• In some extreme cases, pet lovers with allergies opt to close house wide ducts to the bedroom(s) and use portable heating and cooling.
• Cover mattresses, box springs and pillows with zippered, plastic allergy-proof cases. In addition, buy pillows and mattresses with non-allergenic polyester filling.

Use HEPA Air Cleaners

• HEPA air cleaners –either a house-wide unit or a portable one- should be in every room of the home.
• Purchase a vacuum cleaner that has a HEPA filter. If you use a maid service, be sure that the cleaners they use are hypoallergenic and that the vacuum cleaners have HEPA filters.
• Replace central heating/cooling system air filters and humidifiers often.

Keep Clean!

• Wash all bedding and linens frequently in hot water as this will flush away dander that has settled.
• If you do have heavy carpets, curtains or upholstery, have it steam-cleaned 3-4 times a year.
• Wash baseboards, floors and walls regularly to keep build-up of pet dander minimal. Dust often, using a damp cloth and vacuum cleaners so that dust and dander is picked up easily without being stirred up.
• Open outside windows/doors whenever possible and use exhaust fans to encourage good, clean airflow.
• Brush your pet often, preferably daily. Bathe your pet frequently-ideally, once a week, using a hypoallergenic or oatmeal based shampoo. Depending on the severity of the person’s allergy, it may be prudent to have someone else do this for you. (You may wish to check at a local college to see if there are any students who would like to make extra money.)
• Wash your hands immediately after petting or grooming your pet. Keep your hands away from your face until you have washed. Depending on your allergy situations, it may be wise to change clothes after pet grooming, as well.

Allergy Precautions Specifically for Cat Owners

• Do not use deodorized litter or one that throws dust; in addition, let the non-allergic household members take care of litter box chores
• If you wish to get a cat, but have pet allergies, get a female cat as they produce fewer allergies than males.

Behavioral Precautions for You and Your Pet

• If you have pet allergies, don’t smoke! This lowers your allergen resistance and aggravates your lungs.
• Feed your pet a well-balanced diet that includes natural fats as this adds moisture to their skin, resulting in less shedding.
• Try traditional treatments such as immunotherapy allergy shots, steroidal and antihistamine nose sprays or antihistamine pills.
• Use a homeopathic approach to build up your immune system. Some of these are: Vitamin C; Echinacea taken in tincture form; Urtica helps reduce the reactions people whose pet allergies manifest in rashes; Sponge Cucumber, taken in either tincture or tablet without side effects, is an alternative to nasal sprays and reduces itching/discharge from the nose or eyes and Devil’s Claw-taken daily, can desensitize pet allergies in as little as 3 months.

Unfortunately, there is no such thing as a hypoallergenic breed of dog or cat. However, there are breeds that produce less dander. Dog breeds that shed less are Airedale, Irishwater Spaniels, Italian Greyhounds, Maltese, Poodles, Schnauzers, Shih Tzu, assorted breeds of terriers, greyhounds, assorted breeds of terriers, greyhounds and the Mexican hairless Xoloitzcuintli. Cat breads that shed little or no hair are the Devon Rex, the Cornish Rex and the Sphynx.

Having a pet allergy does not have to mean never having a pet. Rather, it means that you take some simple steps so you can enjoy playing with and caring for your pet. And, should you need some pointers on pet care or grooming, be sure to contact Sleep Eas…Zz, we’ll be glad to help!

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With Ashes obviously struggling to adapt to the new circumstances of Grace’s pet allergies, we had to take action. We immediately took Ashes to his veterinarian. As we expected, Ashes was diagnosed with stress-induced colitis. We consulted with the veterinarian and with one of the volunteers at the Safe Haven (local no-kill shelter), regarding re-homing. They both agreed that Ashes was no longer happy in the environment that we were now providing him and that we really needed to make considering our options for his life a priority.

Keith and I made the very difficult decision to find Ashes a new loving home (we did not want to put him in a shelter or euthanize him). He was not happy in our home anymore and it was not fair to keep him there – we just wanted what was best for him. Grace still had not shown any significant improvements in her symptoms so we could not eliminate any of our new dander reducing rules for Ashes. Conversely, we could not continue to keep dosing our child with daily steroids and antihistamines, as we were not comfortable with this approach.

Our veterinarian and the Safe Haven volunteer both suggested that reaching out to friends and family would be the best option for re-homing Ashes. However, Ashes was a mature cat and we learned that successful re homing for a mature cat was near impossible. We first contacted Ashes’ wonderful pet sitters; Neil and Mardella Berg, owners of A-1-Pet Care from SleepEas…zZ. They loved Ashes dearly and we hoped that their networking contacts in the pet sitting world would potentially provide us additional re-homing assistance or a new loving home for Ashes. Our efforts also included all of our friends, family and coworkers, extending from the USA to Canada (we are from there originally). We asked everyone to forward to all potential animal/cat lovers.

We received many sympathetic replies AS we had expected. Within hours, we heard from Mardella and by the next day, she had potentially found a home for Ashes. I spoke at length with the possible cat mommy, Ellen. She came to our home to meet and interact with Ashes and I visited her home where Ashes would be living. I also spoke with Ellen’s pet sitter, Ron, which she was currently using. (Ellen was currently a cat mom to a mature female cat). We felt almost instantly that this was where Ashes was meant to live the rest of his life.

Ashes has been with his new cat mommy, Ellen, and sister, Bonnie, now for several months and has settled in quite well. Initially, I communicated on the phone and via email with Ellen daily until I felt he was going to be okay. She has encouraged me to contact her at any time (phone, email or visits) and has promised me that if she were to ever feel that Ashes was not working out in her home she would call me. I have also spoken with the Ashes’ new cat sitter who has had a chance to spend some time in the home with Ashes and Bonnie. I do continue to receive updates from Mardella when she hears from the new pet sitter – she and Neil dearly loved Ashes and took such great care of him.  In fact, the home Ashes was placed in was actually one of their competitor’s clients. Everyone has been so wonderfully supportive of my concerns and feelings and have made Ashes’ happiness their first concern.

Thankfully, Mardella & Neil were able to find a wonderful cat mom for Ashes. Our hearts are broken but we do find comfort and peace that Ashes will be living in a safe, loving and happy environment again. Sadly, Ashes will no longer have Mardella and Neil as petsitters; they loved and cared for Ashes as much as we did.  This is our story and one of the hardest moments that our family has experienced.”  Carlie, Ashes’ 1^st Mommy.

“Thanks Mardella and Neil for your constant assistance and support, we so appreciate you both more than you will ever know. We feel very blessed to have had you in our lives. “ Carlie, Keith & Grace

If you were wondering, Ashes’ new parent has given us an update…

“Hello Mardella,

I just wanted to make sure you and Neil know how blessed I am to have Ashes in my life, and I believe he and Bonnie love each other.  I told Ashes’ first Mom that he is smothered with love.  Ron has been very pleased at how well he and Bonnie have adjusted to each other.

Mardella, he really is very loving. At times, he will jump on my lap and just curl up. Ashes is very smart. He knows that Bonnie is fed in the utility room while he is fed in the family room.  I am gradually introducing them to a dry food I bought called Evo. The young man who sold it to me gives it to his feline children. It is grain free. It was meant to be for me to have Ashes is my life. —Ellen, Carlie, Ashes and Bonnie”

We hope you enjoyed this true story about a wonderful cat named Ashes and his loving family’s struggle with pet allergies, heartache, & eventual relief & joy.  This story is not unique to Ashes.  If you, or someone you know, is struggling with a new found, extremely potent, pet allergy and find yourself (and your pet) in a similar situation, please know that there are people in & around your community that truly care.  For example, Neil & Mardella Berg, owners/operators of A1 Pet Care by Sleep…EaszZ – pet sitters who care about their pets!

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I am a male, brown tabby domestic short hair cat. I am extremely handsome and have a very old spirit. My favorite activities are eating and sleeping. I also love being brushed and spending time on my scratching post. I am very affectionate and enjoy being petted and hanging out on laps, but sometimes like my own space too. Here is my family’s story.

I was adopted by Carlie and her husband Keith in 2001. Like all passionate lifelong cat lovers, my family treated me like a big baby. Then in 2009, they adopted their precious daughter Grace. We were one big happy family and our new family member and I were adjusting surprisingly wonderful together.

Then the nightmare began. Grace started developing coughing, sneezing, wheezing and a skin rash, which progressed very quickly to a head to toe rash, and she was diagnosed with eczema. They made numerous trips to her pediatrician, saw three dermatologists and an allergy/Asthma doctor trying to get the eczema comfortable and manageable. She was treated daily with oral antihistamines and/or eczema/steroid creams (lotions, ointments, oils, and shampoos), for at least 6 months – with minimal response. So Carlie and Keith decided to have pediatric serum and skin allergy testing done. Grace had positive antibodies to cats. Everyone was devastated. These cat allergies not only cause the typical allergy symptoms Grace was experiencing, but could also cause eczema and in the future trigger Asthma (which she would now be at risk for because of the allergy and the eczema).

Life at this point changed greatly for me. I was confined to the downstairs main living area (only hardwood/vinyl floor), to try to eliminate the spread of dander in the bedrooms and the carpeted areas. My family interactions were limited as much as daily living would allow – this action directly decreased the amount of time that my parents and I could spend together. Incidentally, Carlie has a cat allergy and  had already been practicing dander lessening techniques (bathing me regularly with an anti-dander shampoo, using Allerpert and giving me vitamins–as per the veterinarian–daily brushing, etc…) for years.

I was very attached to my family and up until this point had slept with Carlie and Keith every night, in addition to being able to freely roam the house. Now, I was so unhappy, I would cry for hours at night and continuously during the days when my family was home and upstairs. Everyone hoped I would adjust but instead, my stress symptoms got progressively worse. I started not eating, was vomiting and having bloody loose stool. I was miserable. Whatever could be done?

Pet allergies are a very real problem. Some people may only have “minor” reactions such as sneezing while others react as Grace did with rashes and eczema. Regardless of the type(s) of reaction one may suffer from due to pets, the fact remains that it is a very real problem. Sad to say, in a number of situations, the resolution is to put the animal down.

Of course, in situations such as this one, it is not uncommon for the pet to react to any changes in routine, just as Ashes did. From uncharacteristic behavior to extreme physical responses, animals often show their feelings through their actions and the wise pet owner will do whatever it takes to see that both the pet and the people affected are happy and healthy.

Having a pet brings pleasure to life. After all, pets can provide friendship, protection, give you reasons to smile and they show unconditional love and loyalty. However, just wanting to own a pet doesn’t mean that every pet is the perfect fit for your family. And in some cases, such as Ashes’, having a pet can have very dire results on a family member or the pet. In such situations, difficult decisions have to be made. Next month, we will share the rest of Ashes’ story, so be sure to check out Sleep EasZZ to learn how we were able to help Ashes and his family.

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1. How Clean and Organized is the Veterinary Practice? As you wait to see the vet, note the level of attention given to the following areas:

• Is everything in the waiting area tidy?
• Does it smell clean-within reason-for an animal clinic?
• Does the front desk have paperwork and records organized?
• Once you see the examination room, is it well kept?
• Is the equipment being used well maintained?
• Are the employee’s uniforms neat and clean?

Once you enter the patient area, you will also need to pay attention to these elements as well.
• Is there plenty of lighting?
• Are the cages clean and dry?
• Do the cages have bedding or paper inside of them?
• Are the floors and tables free of used medical paraphernalia or bodily fluids?

2. Are Medical Records Up to Date and Detailed? Appearance is important, but having records that are thorough is vital. This is because if the records are incomplete, it is fairly safe to believe that the care received was inadequate as well. At the end of the visit, ask to be given a copy of the record. It should include your pet’s full name, their medical file, exam findings and any notes made. This will give you an idea of the type/level of records the practice keeps.

3. Are Prescriptions Dispensed Properly and with Appropriate Monitoring? Pet medication, just as with people, should not be given out without an examination. In addition, pets taking medication should be monitored closely, so as to be aware of any side effects. When you are trying to find a veterinary practice, be sure to ask to see how drugs are dispensed. Be sure to note the following:
• Are meds in child-resistant containers? This should always be the case.
• Is the label complete? The label should contain the following information: Name, address and telephone number of the vet; pet owner’s last name and pet name; date, name, quantity, and strength of the medicine; any cautionary statements; dose and duration for taking the medicine and the expiration date of the medication.

4. What about Personnel Surgical Procedures? If your pet will be having surgery, it is important that the following modern practices be employed. The vet and any assistants should wear:
• Scrubs
• Surgical masks
• Surgical cap
• Sterile gown
• Sterile gloves

5. Are Animals Evaluated before Being Anesthetized and Are They Monitored during Surgery? These are precautions that should be taken with surgery, but especially in animals that are more than 5 years old, as older animals are at a higher risk of complications (just like with people ). Recommended time for a pre-surgery evaluation is sometime within a month before the surgery. Older pets should have blood work done to ensure the level of organ function, as well. During surgery, the pet should be monitored so the medical team is aware of any changes or reactions caused by anesthesia or procedure.

6. Do the Patients Receive Pain Medication? There was a time when many vets did not believe in the use of pain medication. If the vet you are interviewing is of this opinion, proceed to the next one on your list! Just as you would want pain meds after a surgery, so does your pet…they just can’t come out and “say” it! Be sure that the vet recognizes the need for using pain relievers. Modern day pet pain medications include COX-2 selective NSAIDs, slow release skin patches or injections of narcotics.

Choosing a vet can take a bit of time but it is an important part of pet ownership. As you interview prospective vets, don’t be swayed by a fancy building or cute décor. Trust your instincts. If you feel at any time during the interview that the vet is not being forthcoming or if you are dissatisfied with the answers to any of these questions, move on to the next vet in your list. Having a vet that you, and your pet, like and are comfortable with will make doctor’s visits easier. Take your time now, so that you can rest easier later!

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In preparation for finding a new vet, get referrals from others then make some phone calls to schedule an interview with the vets. Many practices allow you to bring your pet along to the interviews, but don’t be surprised if you are asked to pay for this option. Also, it is okay to let the vet(s) know that you are interviewing others. As part of the interviews, be sure to ask the following questions:

1.       How are patients monitored for overnight hospital? This typically depends on how large the facility is as well as how many workers there are.  In cases where they don’t offer overnight stays, ask where they recommend.

2.       Does the practice use updated/modern equipment? Like in human medicine there have been many advances made in veterinary care. Be sure to ask if the vet  has the updated equipment for:

• Taking blood pressure
• A Packed Cell Volume, which measures red blood cell count without needing to send a blood sample to a lab.
• A Pulse Oximeter to monitor the animal’s oxygen (old equipment requires human read x-rays; new equipment uses automatic processors and are more efficient.)

3.       Does the practice refer patients to specialist? Be concerned if the practice says,” We don’t do everything here.” Be sure to get answers you are comfortable with to these inquiries.

• If you refer critical patients to another facility, which one is it?
• What type of situations will be referred to a specialist?
• Do you refer patients to a specialist for major surgery or advanced procedures?
• Do you refer patients who have conditions that are hard to treat or diagnosed to others for a second opinion?

4.       What modern anesthetic techniques/practices do you use? Today, vets typically use Isoflurane and Sevoflurance; do not go to a vet that uses Halothane as this is no longer deemed safe. In addition, any patient under anesthesia should have an IV catheter and be intubated (placement of a trachea ensuring oxygen levels are adequate) when under anesthesia. As you talk about the veterinary clinic’s anesthesia practice be sure you discuss:

• How they monitor patients when they are under anesthesia? Ideally, it is better if there is someone whose sole responsibility is to monitor the equipment.
• What type of monitoring equipment is used?
• Who does the monitoring?
• Is there a vet tech to help or does the vet do everything?

5.       Are employees experienced vet techs and do they have a license to protect? The state requirements vary, but the more people at the clinic are licensed the better. Check out the aavsb.org  to learn the requirements for each state.  You should also ask:

• If licensing is required, are all of your techs licensed?
• If licensing in not required, do you have licensed techs on staff?
• What is the level of training and experience of any unlicensed technicians?

6.       Is the practice AAHA (American Animal Hospital Association) accredited? These hospitals/veterinary practices must meet specific standards and guidelines regarding facilities, equipment, patient care and staffing.

7.       How many vets practice at the facility? Find out if some have specific areas of expertise or if others have more current training. Also, while it is not a requirement that a clinic have a board certified specialist, it is certainly a positive feature. If there are certified specialist, ask what their focus field is. Remember, vets are not required to have an internship, but those who do have an advantage.

Not every veterinary practice will meet all of these criteria, so you will want to select the vet that meets the highest number. However, more important than whether or not the veterinary clinic has all the latest equipment, is how you feel about the vet. You want a vet that you feel at ease with. Just as you would not want a personal physician who makes you uncomfortable or feel inadequate, you don’t want to bring your pet to a vet where you (or perhaps your pet) are uneasy.

Your pet is a part of your family, so you want to be sure to find one that is everything you need it to be. Asking these questions, as well as trusting your feelings, as part of your search for a vet will make this process much easier.

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