Today In Cats And Dogs Stories And Helpful Tips: By Doug ...

[mountainlion20032003]

Ever since the charity Hearing Dogs For Deaf People started in 1982, more than 1,000 dogs have improved the quality of life for hundreds of hearing impaired people.

And in some cases, the faithful pooches have even saved lives.

Each year the charity, based in Buckinghamshire, holds an awards ceremony for the remarkable dogs.

Here is a round-up of some of the dogs who have gained recognition for their wonderful work as hearing dogs.

Heroic Hearing Dog winner - Bentley

Since Colin James, from Bournemouth, had a minor stroke in June 2004 his heart stops at irregular intervals during the night.

But on one occasion, his wife Barbara had fallen asleep and was awoken by Bentley, who came to her side of the bed and barked and alerted her by touching.

Barbara said: "After a bad night after the ambulance crew had gone and Colin had settled to sleep, I knew I would not sleep again so I went into the lounge and sat in a chair. Half an hour later Bentley came and found me, touched me, then took me to thebedroom. Colin had stopped breathing."

Since then Colin has had a pacemaker fitted - but this wasn't Bentley's first life-saving action.

A few years ago he alerted Colin and led him into the garden where their elderly pet dog was choking. Another time, when Colin collapsed, Bentley ran into the house to find Barbara and led her back to where Colin lay.

Esther Rantzen who judged this category and presented the awards said: "Bentley seems to have an innate sense of when there is a problem, even if there is no sound occurring, and the bond between Colin and Bentley must be very strong.

"The fact that Bentley used his initiative to tell Barbara when Colin had stopped breathing undoubtedly saved Colin's life."

Rescue Hearing Dog Runner-up - Trixie

Trixie and her owner are a partnership made in heaven.

Sister Marika Rebicsek, from Essex, is profoundly deaf and suffers from severe rheumatoid arthritis and constant tinnitus. She is also allergic to virtually all dogs - except hairless breeds.

Fortunately, rescue dog Trixie is a Chinese crested cross Japanese chin. She came to Marika on her birthday in 1996.

Marika says: "She was the best birthday present ever! We share so much together. Hearing Dogs could not have matched me with a better dog - she is extrovert and I am an extrovert person. We both love travelling and meeting people.

"Thanks to Trixie, I have met far more people than I would ever have done, had I not had her. Sometimes it is very hard to get up in the morning, but when Trixie wakes me up and greets me with a very happy good morning, you cannot help laughing andlooking forward to the day."

TV presenter Philippa Forrester judged this category. She said: "Trixie really shows that unwanted dogs can be very bright, happy animals. Even though she came from rescue, she is an extrovert that clearly loves learning new tricks, and is giving back asmuch love as she receives."

Heroic Hearing Dog runner-up - Keri

Mel Smith is indebted to her hearing dog, who saved her life.

Mel, from Walsall, said: "In September last year my friends and I plus Keri had just begun a caravan holiday.

"Keri and I were alone in the caravan and I decided to light the gas fire. I went into the kitchen to prepare the evening meal and moments later, I felt a dull thud at the back of my knees and turned to find Keri giving the sign for "danger/emergency"touching with her paws and lying still on the floor.

"As we were near the smoke alarm which was not making a sound I was tempted to ignore Keri's actions but then I saw a large flame roaring out of the grill on the gas fire into the room.

"Before my eyes the fire surround began to bubble and burn, flames licking around the whole fire, threatening to set the carpet and wall covering alight. Throughout all of this the smoke alarm remained silent.

"I tried to get the fire extinguisher off the wall, with Keri continually touching me and laying down in the danger position, then ran for help and was accompanied back to the caravan by three people who managed between them to bring the fire undercontrol.

"I feel incredibly proud of Keri, because if it wasn't for her actions and persistence, the situation could have been so much worse, life threatening even.

"She is a real little hero."

[mountainlion20032003]

We may have welcomed cats into our hearts and homes en masse, and allowed them to catnap on the couch and bounce on the bed, but many cat owners still have forbidden zones, like food preparation areas or kitchen table, where kitty isn't welcome.

Dr. Larry Lachman, animal behavior consultant and author of Cats on the Counter, warns of the dangers posed to cats who do jump on the counter, by heated stove/grill surfaces, boiling liquids, and the ingestion of foods with sharp and potentially dangerous bones.

Veterinary behaviorists remind cat owners to be consistent. Once a cat safely violates a forbidden area, it will return unless you make this taboo area uncomfortable for them or lure them to an appropriate, safer area that is much more enticing.

There are many things you can try to keep cat off the counter:

- Place a shallow pan of water on the surface; once the cat gets its paws wet a couple of times, it will often abandon the area for good.

- Place double-sided tape on the countertops as cats don't like the sticky feeling on their paws.

- Use a rubber mat with nubby side up or sheets of tin foil

Some people swear by the Scatmat (a plastic mat that gives off a harmless pulse of static electricity if touched). This tingle can keep cats off the counter and is great because it disciplines your cat when you're not around g (www.scatmat.com or 800-767-8658).

Remember the old saying about "catching more flies with sugar than vinegar?"

Lachman believes that it's equally important to provide cats with redirected high-up places that they can jump or climb up on, through the use of cat trees, kitty condos, and/or secure perching shelves. Or use a toy or tasty treat to lure them away from the inappropriate area.

Remember, anything a cat does, whether it's spraying urine, scratching the door jam, or jumping up on the kitchen counters, is normal behavior as far as the cat is concerned. The cat behaves in this way not understanding this will be offensive or damaging to you.

Cats never act out of revenge or spite. It's up to you to find a way for your cats to express and redirect natural instincts in an acceptable manner to the rest of the family.

[dads540]

Originally Posted by mountainlion20032003

Ever since the charity Hearing Dogs For Deaf People started in 1982, more than 1,000 dogs have improved the quality of life for hundreds of hearing impaired people.

And in some cases, the faithful pooches have even saved lives.

Each year the charity, based in Buckinghamshire, holds an awards ceremony for the remarkable dogs.

Here is a round-up of some of the dogs who have gained recognition for their wonderful work as hearing dogs.

Heroic Hearing Dog winner - Bentley

Since Colin James, from Bournemouth, had a minor stroke in June 2004 his heart stops at irregular intervals during the night.

But on one occasion, his wife Barbara had fallen asleep and was awoken by Bentley, who came to her side of the bed and barked and alerted her by touching.

Barbara said: "After a bad night after the ambulance crew had gone and Colin had settled to sleep, I knew I would not sleep again so I went into the lounge and sat in a chair. Half an hour later Bentley came and found me, touched me, then took me to thebedroom. Colin had stopped breathing."

Since then Colin has had a pacemaker fitted - but this wasn't Bentley's first life-saving action.

A few years ago he alerted Colin and led him into the garden where their elderly pet dog was choking. Another time, when Colin collapsed, Bentley ran into the house to find Barbara and led her back to where Colin lay.

Esther Rantzen who judged this category and presented the awards said: "Bentley seems to have an innate sense of when there is a problem, even if there is no sound occurring, and the bond between Colin and Bentley must be very strong.

"The fact that Bentley used his initiative to tell Barbara when Colin had stopped breathing undoubtedly saved Colin's life."

Rescue Hearing Dog Runner-up - Trixie

Trixie and her owner are a partnership made in heaven.

Sister Marika Rebicsek, from Essex, is profoundly deaf and suffers from severe rheumatoid arthritis and constant tinnitus. She is also allergic to virtually all dogs - except hairless breeds.

Fortunately, rescue dog Trixie is a Chinese crested cross Japanese chin. She came to Marika on her birthday in 1996.

Marika says: "She was the best birthday present ever! We share so much together. Hearing Dogs could not have matched me with a better dog - she is extrovert and I am an extrovert person. We both love travelling and meeting people.

"Thanks to Trixie, I have met far more people than I would ever have done, had I not had her. Sometimes it is very hard to get up in the morning, but when Trixie wakes me up and greets me with a very happy good morning, you cannot help laughing andlooking forward to the day."

TV presenter Philippa Forrester judged this category. She said: "Trixie really shows that unwanted dogs can be very bright, happy animals. Even though she came from rescue, she is an extrovert that clearly loves learning new tricks, and is giving back asmuch love as she receives."

Heroic Hearing Dog runner-up - Keri

Mel Smith is indebted to her hearing dog, who saved her life.

Mel, from Walsall, said: "In September last year my friends and I plus Keri had just begun a caravan holiday.

"Keri and I were alone in the caravan and I decided to light the gas fire. I went into the kitchen to prepare the evening meal and moments later, I felt a dull thud at the back of my knees and turned to find Keri giving the sign for "danger/emergency"touching with her paws and lying still on the floor.

"As we were near the smoke alarm which was not making a sound I was tempted to ignore Keri's actions but then I saw a large flame roaring out of the grill on the gas fire into the room.

"Before my eyes the fire surround began to bubble and burn, flames licking around the whole fire, threatening to set the carpet and wall covering alight. Throughout all of this the smoke alarm remained silent.

"I tried to get the fire extinguisher off the wall, with Keri continually touching me and laying down in the danger position, then ran for help and was accompanied back to the caravan by three people who managed between them to bring the fire undercontrol.

"I feel incredibly proud of Keri, because if it wasn't for her actions and persistence, the situation could have been so much worse, life threatening even.

"She is a real little hero."

thank you for sharing these heartwarming and beautiful stories,really a pleasure to read Doug!!!

[mountainlion20032003]

Originally Posted by dads540

thank you for sharing these heartwarming and beautiful stories,really a pleasure to read Doug!!!

You are very welcome Dan! Thank you for reading the post! Really appreciate that!

[dads540]

Originally Posted by mountainlion20032003

You are very welcome Dan! Thank you for reading the post! Really appreciate that!

your very welcome buddy

[mountainlion20032003]

Originally Posted by dads540

your very welcome buddy

You are a wonderful friend Dan to Christy and I and we appreciate it!

[lil'Red Ridinghood 6277]

New vaccine protects dogs longer with fewer shots
Source: PR Newswire

MILLSBORO, Del. /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- Lovers of the nation's 65 million dogs now have a new, convenient and safe option to vaccinate their canine companions less frequently and protect them longer against three of the most common and deadly canine diseases: distemper, hepatitis and parvovirus. Intervet Inc., the world's leading manufacturer of animal health vaccines, announced today the availability of Continuum(TM) DAP, the first and only U.S. government-approved vaccine that can be safely given to dogs once every three years instead of annually to protect against these three prevalent diseases. Until now, there have been no vaccines available in the United States (except rabies) approved by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) for use at three-year intervals. Other available vaccines that protect against these viruses are only approved for yearly administration.

"Continuum DAP is a milestone advancement in medicine for dogs," said Sebastien Huron, DVM, Director, Companion Animal Business Unit, Intervet Inc. "Canine distemper is the biggest single threat to dogs in this country. It proves deadly in 80 percent of puppies diagnosed with the disease. Hepatitis and parvovirus can also kill. But for the first time, we now have the evidence to show that annual vaccination against these three viruses is unnecessary, and further, we have a vaccine that's been proven to protect dogs for the full 36-month period. So it is easier than ever before for pet owners to protect their dogs," said Dr. Huron.

Vaccination against distemper, hepatitis and parvovirus is considered essential and routine for all dogs in order to protect them against severe disease and even an untimely death. Administering a DAP vaccine once every three years, versus annually, conforms to current vaccination guidelines issued by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) and recommendations of the nation's leading veterinary schools.

"Less frequent vaccination is simply better medicine - more convenient for pet owners and more comfortable and safe for dogs. With Continuum DAP, dog owners can feel confident that their pets are staying completely protected over three years with fewer shots," said Dr. Huron.

Better Medicine to Keep Your Dog Healthy

Keeping dogs up-to-date on routine and recommended vaccinations is one of the best ways to keep them healthy. But vaccinations, while they protect against disease, can cause discomfort and adverse reactions in some dogs.

"There is always a small risk of an allergic reaction and therefore, whether it is people or animals, it is best not to give a vaccine that is unnecessary," said Dr. Ernest Ward, an expert in veterinary medicine and owner of Seaside Animal Care in Calabash, North Carolina.

"Alex is very much part of our family," said Dian Robbins. "I routinely take him to our veterinarian to make sure he stays healthy. But I don't want him to be uncomfortable and prefer to limit the number of shots he receives. So I am very pleased to learn about this new option available through my veterinarian."

Ms. Robbins expressed trust in Continuum DAP. "Knowing that this new product is proven to be safe and effective, government approved and veterinary recommended gives me a great deal of confidence that I am providing the best possible care for my beloved Alex," said Ms. Robbins.

Customized Care for Pets

Differences exist among dogs with regard to age, health status, home and travel environment, lifestyle and related disease risks, as well as between individual vaccines. According to Karen Duncan, DVM, Intervet Inc., many veterinarians today believe the best approach is to tailor vaccination to the specific needs of the dog rather than to a routine protocol. "Continuum DAP's three-year dosing schedule supports customized vaccination programs for individual dogs. Of course, the use of fewer vaccines decreases the risk of any potential side effects," said Dr. Duncan.

Dr. Duncan further noted that the use of Continuum DAP can fit nicely into pet owners' ongoing healthcare routines. "It is very important for owners to take their pets to the veterinarian for customized vaccination programs, regular exams and wellness visits," said Dr. Duncan. "Dogs with serious diseases often appear healthy, and regular health evaluations can facilitate early detection. Additionally, dental care, proper nutrition, appropriate diagnostic testing and the control of parasites and other diseases can be addressed during the veterinary visit. Puppies and geriatric dogs should be examined more frequently," said Dr. Duncan.

Changing the Standard of Care

"We are proud to bring this innovation to the U.S. market. It represents yet another milestone for Intervet," said Dr. Huron. "The availability of Continuum DAP ushers in a new standard of care regarding vaccinations considered essential for all dogs. Furthermore, it will dramatically change how pet owners and veterinarians manage a dog's overall healthcare needs."

Proven Efficacy of Continuum DAP

Continuum DAP has been proven to protect dogs using USDA testing methodologies considered to be the gold standard for evaluating vaccine safety, purity and efficacy. In a landmark study conducted by Intervet Inc., researchers evaluated the efficacy of Continuum DAP by studying dogs that were exposed to distemper, hepatitis or parvovirus three years following initial vaccination. Infections were prevented in all of the vaccinated dogs. By contrast, signs of disease were seen in all unvaccinated dogs.

----

For more information about Continuum DAP, ask your veterinarian or visit http://www.continuumforpets.com.

[mountainlion20032003]

Originally Posted by lil'Red Ridinghood 6277

New vaccine protects dogs longer with fewer shots
Source: PR Newswire

MILLSBORO, Del. /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- Lovers of the nation's 65 million dogs now have a new, convenient and safe option to vaccinate their canine companions less frequently and protect them longer against three of the most common and deadly canine diseases: distemper, hepatitis and parvovirus. Intervet Inc., the world's leading manufacturer of animal health vaccines, announced today the availability of Continuum(TM) DAP, the first and only U.S. government-approved vaccine that can be safely given to dogs once every three years instead of annually to protect against these three prevalent diseases. Until now, there have been no vaccines available in the United States (except rabies) approved by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) for use at three-year intervals. Other available vaccines that protect against these viruses are only approved for yearly administration.

"Continuum DAP is a milestone advancement in medicine for dogs," said Sebastien Huron, DVM, Director, Companion Animal Business Unit, Intervet Inc. "Canine distemper is the biggest single threat to dogs in this country. It proves deadly in 80 percent of puppies diagnosed with the disease. Hepatitis and parvovirus can also kill. But for the first time, we now have the evidence to show that annual vaccination against these three viruses is unnecessary, and further, we have a vaccine that's been proven to protect dogs for the full 36-month period. So it is easier than ever before for pet owners to protect their dogs," said Dr. Huron.

Vaccination against distemper, hepatitis and parvovirus is considered essential and routine for all dogs in order to protect them against severe disease and even an untimely death. Administering a DAP vaccine once every three years, versus annually, conforms to current vaccination guidelines issued by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) and recommendations of the nation's leading veterinary schools.

"Less frequent vaccination is simply better medicine - more convenient for pet owners and more comfortable and safe for dogs. With Continuum DAP, dog owners can feel confident that their pets are staying completely protected over three years with fewer shots," said Dr. Huron.

Better Medicine to Keep Your Dog Healthy

Keeping dogs up-to-date on routine and recommended vaccinations is one of the best ways to keep them healthy. But vaccinations, while they protect against disease, can cause discomfort and adverse reactions in some dogs.

"There is always a small risk of an allergic reaction and therefore, whether it is people or animals, it is best not to give a vaccine that is unnecessary," said Dr. Ernest Ward, an expert in veterinary medicine and owner of Seaside Animal Care in Calabash, North Carolina.

"Alex is very much part of our family," said Dian Robbins. "I routinely take him to our veterinarian to make sure he stays healthy. But I don't want him to be uncomfortable and prefer to limit the number of shots he receives. So I am very pleased to learn about this new option available through my veterinarian."

Ms. Robbins expressed trust in Continuum DAP. "Knowing that this new product is proven to be safe and effective, government approved and veterinary recommended gives me a great deal of confidence that I am providing the best possible care for my beloved Alex," said Ms. Robbins.

Customized Care for Pets

Differences exist among dogs with regard to age, health status, home and travel environment, lifestyle and related disease risks, as well as between individual vaccines. According to Karen Duncan, DVM, Intervet Inc., many veterinarians today believe the best approach is to tailor vaccination to the specific needs of the dog rather than to a routine protocol. "Continuum DAP's three-year dosing schedule supports customized vaccination programs for individual dogs. Of course, the use of fewer vaccines decreases the risk of any potential side effects," said Dr. Duncan.

Dr. Duncan further noted that the use of Continuum DAP can fit nicely into pet owners' ongoing healthcare routines. "It is very important for owners to take their pets to the veterinarian for customized vaccination programs, regular exams and wellness visits," said Dr. Duncan. "Dogs with serious diseases often appear healthy, and regular health evaluations can facilitate early detection. Additionally, dental care, proper nutrition, appropriate diagnostic testing and the control of parasites and other diseases can be addressed during the veterinary visit. Puppies and geriatric dogs should be examined more frequently," said Dr. Duncan.

Changing the Standard of Care

"We are proud to bring this innovation to the U.S. market. It represents yet another milestone for Intervet," said Dr. Huron. "The availability of Continuum DAP ushers in a new standard of care regarding vaccinations considered essential for all dogs. Furthermore, it will dramatically change how pet owners and veterinarians manage a dog's overall healthcare needs."

Proven Efficacy of Continuum DAP

Continuum DAP has been proven to protect dogs using USDA testing methodologies considered to be the gold standard for evaluating vaccine safety, purity and efficacy. In a landmark study conducted by Intervet Inc., researchers evaluated the efficacy of Continuum DAP by studying dogs that were exposed to distemper, hepatitis or parvovirus three years following initial vaccination. Infections were prevented in all of the vaccinated dogs. By contrast, signs of disease were seen in all unvaccinated dogs.

----

For more information about Continuum DAP, ask your veterinarian or visit http://www.continuumforpets.com.

Thanks Babe for the new info.! Hugs!

[demonfaerie]

thank you for sharing those stories doug and the kitty advice. It doesnt quite apply to me though(my cat eats on the counter otherwise the dog will eat his food)
And thanks for the info Christy my dog did have Parvo when she was a puppy

[lil'Red Ridinghood 6277]

Originally Posted by demonfaerie

thank you for sharing those stories doug and the kitty advice. It doesnt quite apply to me though(my cat eats on the counter otherwise the dog will eat his food)
And thanks for the info Christy my dog did have Parvo when she was a puppy

You are very welcome.
Happy we could help. Although for the cat feeding issue, I use my chest freezer or place it up on the cat climbing place where the dog can't get to it. I have the same problem.