Reasons to Keep Your Cat Inside

There are a number of reasons to keep your pet, in particular cats, indoors. Here are the most common:

1. Injury- Pets who spend time outside are at greater risk for injury because they can get into fights with other animals or get cuts, scrapes or even splinters that can become abscessed.

2. Traffic- Sadly, there are numerous cats and dogs killed each year by motor vehicles. By keeping your pet contained—either inside or on a leash when you take them for a walk- you can prevent them from experiencing this trauma.

3. Disease – Just because your pet is vaccinated, it is not 100% protected against something like leukemia which can be transmitted via saliva from another cat. In fact, the leukemia pet vaccination is only 80-85% effective. In addition, FIV (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus) is passed along through a cat bite (humans cannot be infected) and there is no known cure.

4. Poison – From motor oil that cats may track through or lick, poisons put out to deter other animals or pest and even some plants and fertilizers, there are a variety of poisons easily found outside that can have dire consequences for your cat.

5. Cruelty – Sadly, there are some people who get a great deal of pleasure out of torturing/abusing animals. Don’t make it your pet easy prey by allowing them to roam free.

6. Pests – Flees, ticks and other insects all carry disease. And while pet collars are great guards an indoor cat is better protected against these issues.

Bringing Your Cat Indoors

Of course, if your cat is accustomed to being outdoors, regardless of how much, making the move inside can be a challenge. A challenge, however, that is not insurmountable. There are a variety of things you can do to make the indoors more attractive to cats, which by nature, are more inclined to prefer being outside. Here are a few ideas to try.

• Kitty trees – Humans are created to live life via a one-level existence. Cats are created to climb and jump from high to low and low to high. Having a kitty tree or tower will make your home more appealing to a cat.

• Toys that encourage activity – Cats have to prowl and pounce. Toys like catnip balls, playing chase the string, moving toys or other items that encourage activity will make the cat feel welcomed, while keeping them in shape as well.

• Building a “catio” – This is an enclosed outside area that allows your cat to be in the outdoors without all the dangers. If possible, design it so that your cat can come and go to the “catio” as they please so they can enjoy the outdoors, even when you are not at home.

• Entertainment – Window bird feeders, fish tanks with the lid tightly in place and even videos or leaving a television turned to Animal Planet will provide your cat with visual stimulation and can give them a sense of the outdoors.

• Food puzzles – Busta cubes for cats, fish frozen in a block of ice and other food puzzles can provide environmental enrichment for your cat.

• Companionship – Sometimes, all it takes for a cat to be at ease indoors is to get another cat. They will keep each other company and the “need” to go outdoors will be a moot point.

Having a cat is a privilege and a responsibility. Do your part to keep your cat protected from the elements of the outdoors. If you have any questions or concerns about transitioning your cat from the outdoors to inside, talk to your veterinarian or feel free to ask Sleep Eas…Zz. We are here to help!

Share this Article!

However, that doesn’t mean that one should go to the pound or pet store and adopt the first puppy or kitten they see. Yes, having a pet can bring more quality to your life, but that is more likely to happen when you choose a pet/breed that best suits your personality, routine and living situation. In this post, we will discuss what you need to consider when choosing the “purr-fect” feline for your family.

Pets by Personality:

Just as each person has his or her own unique personality and style so do cats. Recently, we found this human personality to cat breed comparison, we hope that it will help you in your search for the best cat for your family.

• Are you an outgoing, positive person who enjoys the humor of life? Then Bengals, Ragdolls, Tankinese, Manx, Tabbies, Calicos, Siamese, Abyssinian or Japanese Bobtails are a good fit.
• Have you been described as imaginative and artistic, yet a definite people person? Perhaps, you enjoy people, but need some time to regroup? If so, then consider the following cat breeds: Bengals, Tiffany, Scottish Fold, Persian, American Curl, Turkish Angora and Norwegian Forest Cat.
• For people who are sentimental, peacemakers and affectionate, they need a cat that suits their “touchy-feely” personality. Cats best suited for these personality types are Persian, Turkish Angora, Turkish Van, Angora, Rag Doll, Bengal, Himalayan and Burmese.
• The passionate, though occasionally somewhat aggressive, person who is sure to charm anyone they meet will most likely mesh well with these sociable cat breeds: Bengals, Siamese, Japanese bobtail, Wild Abyssinian, Ocicat, California Spangled, American Curl, Siamese, Calicos, Maine Coon and Tabbies.

Q & A to Think About When Choosing a Cat

As you may have noticed, some of these breeds are listed in more than one answer. Consequently, it is necessary to take additional factors into consideration when choosing a cat. Here are a few, to keep in mind.

• Do you have enough space for the cat to play/roam? While cats (typically) require less space than dogs, you still need room for your cat. You will also want a place to keep the litter box that is convenient for the cat without being “in the way” of your home’s traffic pattern.
• Do you have time for your cat? Pets take time-vaccinations, immunizations, spaying/neutering, healthy pet visits and emergency trips to the vet take time. Are you able to make time in your schedule for these vet visits?
• Does the cat have to be a pure breed? If you opt for a pure breed cat, keep in mind that, these cats are more prone to health problems due to genetics; you may opt for a mix-breed cat—unless paternity is a priority.
• Do you have kids? Some breeds of cats are not as child-friendly as others. Some of the breeds most likely to adapt to a household with children are Abyssinian, American shorthair, Burmese, Maine Coon, Persian, Ragdoll, Tankinese and Manx. These breeds are playful, making them great for kids. However, if you have older children or no children at all, then the following breeds do better, as they are more skittish, prefer minimal touching and don’t get jealous easily: Bengal, American Wirehair, Korat, Sphynx and the Bombay.
• How do you feel about extra time spent cleaning? While the majority of felines shed, the long-haired breeds shed more and their fur matts more easily, thus requiring more time for grooming as well as in vacuuming.

Ultimately, choosing a cat for your home is not about breed, personality compatibility or even a routine. Rather, it is about finding a cat that you can fall in love with. It is about choosing that special cat that becomes a member of the family that you can’t imagine not being there when you come home. Yes, having a cat means work, time and money invested (food, vet bills, etc.), but the unconditional love and friendship a cat can bring makes the “negatives’ into positives. So, when are you going to adopt the purr-fect cat for your family?

Share this Article!

I love cats because I enjoy my home, and little by little, they become its visible soul.-Jean Cocteou

Dogs come when they are called; cats take a message and get back to you later.-Mary Bly

Dogs have owners; cats have staff.

For many of us, life without dogs, cats or other pets would be difficult to imagine. After all, there’s nothing quite like the exuberant greeting of your dog when you come home from a long day or the soft purring of your cat curled up next to you as you read a book. Yes, there is much that could be said about pet ownership! And, no, not all of it is easy, but the happiness our pets bring makes the occasional challenge worthwhile.

Of course, if you have been a pet owner for some time, then you are fully aware if the ups and random downs, of having a pet. In fact, apparently many Americans are very acquainted with pet ownership as according to the Humane Society of the United States:

• 39% of American households have at least 1 dog
• 33% that have at least 1 cat
• More than 77 million dogs and 93 million cats living as pets
• 19 million horses, fish, ferrets, hamsters, lizards, snakes and other domesticated animals.

Yes, there are many of us who love out pets!

Are You Ready For Pet Ownership?

If you have never been a pet owner (especially of a cat or dog), but are considering it, then chances are you are well aware of the positive aspects of pet ownership.  However, you  may be somewhat concerned by what  else pet ownership may entail. Consequently, you may be asking yourself, “What makes a good pet owner?” To help out, here are 6 questions to consider carefully before choosing a pet.

1. Is this a snap decision? Major changes to your life should never be made quickly or on a whim. Take your time. Animals typically have along lifespan so taking on a pet is a long-term commitment.
2. Do you have a place for the pet to sleep? While many times cats are content to sleep on the back of a couch or curled up on one’s bed, dogs do best if they have kennel, a large pet “mattress” or a significant place to call home. Be sure you have somewhere your canine friend can sleep in safety and comfort.
3. Do you have time for a pet? Pets regardless of their species, require time. However, dogs definitely take a bit more time as you need to walk them often- especially if you do not have a fenced in back yard. In addition, pets need social interaction and stimulation. Taking your pets with you when run errands, talking to them, playing games of chase and tug-a-war and other forms of involvement will make for a happy, and healthy, pet.
4. What about the vet? Pet owners must be willing to take their pets to the vet, not just for emergencies, but for basic things like physicals, shots and other elements of pet health care such as spaying or neutering.
5. Will you protect them? While you may see getting a large dog as protection for you, what are you doing to protect your pets? This goes beyond the physicals at the vet, but also includes having a microchip implanted in your dog or cat and registering them with one of the lost and found organizations.  In addition, be sure to keep collars and ID tags on your pet at all times!
6. What about education? Pet ownership means that you need to always be learning. From pet training classes to being aware of the latest in pet care or health, it is vital that you take the time to learn about your pet’s health, habits, history and more so that you can be a great pet parent.

These are just a few of the more important aspects you should consider when thinking about getting a pet. If you are not sure that you are willing to take the time to commit to the responsibilities listed here, the perhaps you will want to wait a bit longer before becoming a pet owner.  However, if these questions barely give you pause, then you are likely ready to select your pet.  If you are not sure what type or breed of pet would be best for your situation, feel free to talk to us. Here at A-1 Pets we have been around a variety of animals and would be glad to share our knowledge with you.

Share this Article!

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.

Share this Article!

“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!

Share this Article!

• 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.

Share this Article!

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!

Share this Article!

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!

Share this Article!

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!

Share this Article!

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!

Share this Article!