Monday 25 October 2021

Top 10 Pandemic Pet Poisons (Infographic)

MINNEAPOLIS, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — While many of your favorite activities decreased or stopped during the COVID 19 pandemic, some people used the downtime to learn or enhance a skill, like baking, artwork or home improvement. This increase in the number of people doing new things came with a corresponding increase in the number of pandemic-related […]

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Tuesday 5 October 2021

What Indoor Houseplants Are Pet-Safe?

Cat and plants.

Decorating with houseplants does more than spruce up your space: some plants can help purify indoor air, relieve stress and anxiety, or even boost concentration. And as fans of feng shui will tell you, a Money Tree can attract wealth, Snake Plants serve as protectors, and Philodendrons offer a calming, relaxing energy. But if you have pets, it’s important to know that nibbling on some of these indoor houseplants can make our animal companions sick—or worse. 

Part of protecting your pet’s overall health and wellbeing includes keeping his or her environment free from potential dangers. Your friends at Godspeed Animal Care want you to enjoy the beauty and health benefits of indoor plants without putting your pets at risk. We’ve assembled the following helpful tips for greening up your home while keeping it pet-safe.

Non Toxic Indoor Plants

This list of 11 popular, pet-friendly plants from the ASPCA is a great place to start if you’re wanting to dress up your décor with fresh foliage:

  • Rubber Plant
  • Spider Plant
  • Cast Iron Plant
  • Christmas Cactus
  • African Violet
  • Phalaenopsis Orchid
  • Boston Fern
  • Donkey’s Tail (Succulent)
  • Gerber Daisy
  • Blue Echeveria (Hens and Chicks)
  • Parlor Palm

Herb Appeal

The kitchen windowsill is the perfect perch for potted herbs, and some of our favorites are also safe, tasty treats for our pets to occasionally sample, including: 

  • Basil 
  • Rosemary (small amounts only for dogs) 
  • Thyme
  • Sage 
  • Cilantro
  • Parsley (small amounts only for cats) 

But not all herbs are harmless to our pets. DO NOT feed your pets chives, oregano, mint, tarragon, or lemongrass.

Toxic Houseplants

This list is by no means exhaustive, but here are some definite “no-nos” from the ASPCA when it comes to choosing plants for your pet-friendly house. Some of these, if small enough, can be placed up high where your pet cannot access them. Otherwise, if you already own some of these, it might be best to pass them along to a pet-less friend or family member.

Mildly Toxic: 

  • Fiddle Leaf Fig
  • Devil’s Ivy
  • Dumbcane
  • Peace Lily
  • Philodendron
  • Calla Lily
  • Chinese Evergreen

Moderately toxic: 

  • Corn plant
  • Dragon Tree
  • Ribbon Plant
  • Jade Plant

Severely toxic:

  • Sago Palm
  • Easter Lily

Symptoms of ingesting toxic plant material can range from drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea to rapid breathing, elevated heart rate, lethargy, seizures, and (in the case of Sago Palms) liver failure.

If your pet has eaten something that is potentially toxic, contact us right away or call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435. 

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Tuesday 7 September 2021

The Unmistakable Odor of Cat Urine and How to Remove It

Owner cleaning up cat urine to prevent odor.

Cat owners know that no matter how well-behaved their feline friend may be, the odds are that over the course of the cat’s lifetime, urine will end up where it’s not supposed to be. And the ammonia-like, pungent odor is hard to forget—and hard to eliminate. 

Reasons for Potty Problems

Inappropriate peeing is a sign that your cat is trying to tell you something. The problem could be medical or behavioral, and it will save both you and your cat a lot of frustration if you can pinpoint and correct the cause. 

Underlying illnesses: Urinary tract infections, diabetes, or chronic kidney disease can all cause potty problems. Cats suffering from painful arthritis or other physical conditions might struggle to get to and from, or in and out, of the litter box.

Lax litter box upkeep: Are you keeping your cat’s litter box adequately scooped? If not, your cat may (understandably) rebel! Additionally, some cats can be picky about their litter. Have you switched brands recently? Steer clear of strong scents, too.

Location is everything: Older cats may not want to trek down the basement steps, and even a younger, able-bodied cat may not like to visit the litter box if it’s sitting right next to noisy equipment, like a furnace or a washing machine.

Staking their claim: Is there a stray cat outside your back door? If so, Fluffy might decide to tinkle on the inside of the door to stake her claim on her territory. Believe it or not, your cat feels safer when she can smell her own urine, so take into consideration anything that could be stressing out your cat. 

If you’ve ruled out issues regarding litter box habits and outside strays, the next step is to schedule a wellness examination with your pet’s veterinarian to check for the presence of medical conditions. 

Now … About That Smell

While you’re investigating the reasons for your cat’s litter box avoidance, you need to promptly clean up any messes as soon as you become aware of them. Cat urine contains a cornucopia of substances like urea, pheromones, bacteria, and uric acid. As bacteria breaks down urea, ammonia gets released, and presto, the hallmark odor of cat urine is born. 

Here are some cleaning tips from your friends at Godspeed Animal Care

  • Thoroughly blot up any liquid as soon as you discover your cat’s “accident.”
  • If the spot is on carpeting, stand on a thick layer of paper towels to pull as much liquid as possible out of the carpeting and padding.
  • Use an enzymatic pet urine cleaner/odor eliminator and follow the package directions for the type of surface that is soiled. Enzyme-based cleaners break down the acid in the cat urine, which neutralizes the odor.
  • Keep your cat away from the area or block the area with an overturned laundry basket until the surface has been thoroughly cleaned and is dry. 
  • Do not use ammonia-containing products, as these could just encourage your cat to pee again in the same spot. 

We are here to help you get to the bottom of your cat’s litter box problems. Please contact us with any questions or concerns you have. 

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Saturday 28 August 2021

Where You Live Can Increase Risk of Pets’ Toxic Exposure

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. Aug.18, 2021 – Summer and fall weather means more time outdoors for most Americans, and many pet owners love bringing their furry best friend with them. Whether working outside in the yard, or enjoying recreational activities such as swimming, hunting or fishing, pets are exposed to wide array of potential poisons they don’t […]

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Monday 2 August 2021

Are Public Dog Parks Safe?

Dog in grass in a park.

Taking your pet for a fun outing at the local dog park sounds like an enjoyable activity for a lazy summer afternoon. There are definitely some things to consider before packing up the SUV and heading over, though. Public dog parks are not without some potential dangers, and Godspeed Animal Care thinks that it is important for pet owners to be aware of how to avoid trouble. 

Potential Puppy Playground Perils

Lots of fun can occur within the fenceline of a dog park, but there are hazards to be aware of. 

Common dog park dangers include:

  • Interdog aggression
  • Rough play
  • Injuries like a muscle strain
  • Infectious diseases such as kennel cough
  • Intestinal parasites
  • Overheating

Are Dog Parks Right for You?

Dog parks may sound like fun, but they aren’t right for all dogs. While our canine companions are social creatures, they are also not meant to just be thrown into a large group of strange dogs. 

Dog parks might be a good option for some pets. Avoid, though, if your dog:

  • Has a history of not getting along well with other dogs
  • Seems nervous or scared around strange dogs
  • Has not completed their vaccinations
  • Is very small and likely to be injured
  • Cannot be fully supervised during the dog park visit
  • Is not protected fully with heartworm, flea, and tick prevention
  • Is not feeling 100%
  • Is immunocompromised
  • Has not been spayed or neutered

Staying Safe

If you do decide that a trip to the dog park is worthwhile for you and your pet, there are definitely some steps that you can take to keep the fun to a maximum. 

When visiting the dog park:

  • Be sure that your pet’s vaccinations including social vaccines such as Bordetella and canine influenza are up to date (if you aren’t sure, call us and ask!)
  • Protect your pet with a good parasite prevention program
  • Bring plenty of fresh, clean water so that your dog can keep cool and avoid communal bowls
  • Pick up and dispose of feces properly to avoid disease transmission
  • Put away your phone and pay attention to your dog’s interactions and body language
  • Consider an alternative destination if your local dog park is very crowded or there are dogs displaying unwelcome behaviors
  • Think about visiting during non-peak hours to avoid crowds and heat
  • Be sure that your pet knows basic commands 
  • Avoid bringing treats that may bring out food aggression issues with other dogs present

Dog parks can be a lot of fun, but they also can be a little dangerous if not utilized correctly. While some dogs may enjoy them, for others a hike on a nature trail or some work on a backyard agility course may be a better option. It’s okay to decide that a dog park may not be a reasonable choice for your dog. There are plenty of other fun things to enjoy with your pup, both indoors and out.

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Wednesday 7 July 2021

Going for a Ride? Tips for Pet Safety in the Car

Dog riding in car.

Driving with a pet is legal here in Virginia, but that doesn’t mean it’s perfectly safe. Cruising around with the windows open sure is fun for a dog, and yet driving with an unrestrained animal can cause an accident. Criminal charges, claims of negligence, and potential injuries to yourself, other drivers and passengers, and of course, your pet, are all good motivators for safe practices. Choosing pet safety in the car is an important facet of responsible pet ownership, and we’re here to help.

The Act of Restraint

We know that most dogs relish the chance to go cruisin’ in their owner’s rig. They are easily spotted on the road, hopping back and forth between all the windows. It’s fun and deeply satisfying for them to see and smell the world as it flashes by. Owners enjoy making their dogs happy, and the shared moments reinforce the bond between human and pet. 

Unfortunately, an overexcited animal can cause an owner to drive distractedly. The only solution is to introduce and maintain pet safety in the car. The benefits of pet restraints far outweigh the risks to your pet and others.

A sudden stop or a turn taken too quickly can seriously injure an unrestrained pet in the car. Furthermore, debris in the air can harm them when sticking their heads and shoulders out of a moving vehicle.

Who Doesn’t Love Seatbelts?

Restraining your pet in the back seat should become a habit just like buckling your own seat belt. 

  • Start out by going for short trips together. 
  • Offer healthy treats and praise to reward them for trying out their new restraint.
  • Lengthen your trips over a period of time, such as a month or 6 weeks. Be sure to add breaks so they can get outside and relieve themselves, as necessary.
  • Always give them something to look forward to, like a walk or hike in a favorite spot.
  • Be sure that they always have access to fresh, cool water to drink and loads of refreshing ventilation in the car.

Today’s Pet Restraints

You can choose between a crate, harness, or similar pet restraint like a pet car seat (for toy breeds). Most products can easily attach to the seat belt system in your car, while providing ease of movement of comfort in the back seat. Safety harnesses are typically tested for safety and security. 

Installing a sturdy platform for a wire crate or plastic kennel can add to their sense of security and confidence in the car. This may be especially important for a nervous pet, or one unaccustomed to the car. 

A back seat barrier inhibits a pet from climbing into the front seat, ensuring that the driver maintains complete control over the car. Also, if there’s a crash, a pet cannot be thrust forward. 

Pet Safety in the Car

Please remember that the inside temperature of a parked car can skyrocket well beyond triple digits, even when it’s not scorching hot outside. A pet left alone inside a parked vehicle can become a sudden victim of heat stroke or dehydration, requiring emergency veterinary care.

If you have further questions about pet safety in the car, we encourage you to call us at (757) 253-0656. Our staff at Godspeed Animal Care is always here to help.

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Wednesday 9 June 2021

What is Your Dog’s Tail Trying to Tell You?

Dog's tail wagging.

Dogs communicate with us in many ways—through looks, barks, whines, wags of their tails, and more. One form of communication that is often misinterpreted is the wagging tail. Contrary to popular belief, a wagging tail does not always equal a happy dog. Your dog’s tail movements could be signifying something else entirely. 

It’s important for us to learn our dog’s body language and understand what they are communicating through their movement at any time. The team at Godspeed Animal Care is here to help you decipher your pup’s body language and help you figure out what your dog’s tail is trying to tell you. 

Position and Placement 

The position of your dog’s tail can tell you a lot about their mood and intentions. Here are some important positions and placements to take notice of: 

High and Still: Your dog is showing alertness, preparedness, or agitation. They are also showing intention to display dominance. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but this posture indicates they are alert to whatever got their attention.  

If the tail starts in a more neutral position, however, and moves higher and higher, this could signal aggression or a threat. Higher tail positions release more of your pet’s scent from the anal glands to signal to other dogs they there and are marking territory. A general rule of thumb is, the higher the tail position, the greater the threat. 

High and Wagging: Your dog is showing happiness, but is still very alert. They are still showing signs of dominance, but is also cautiously demonstrating excitement as well 

Low and Between the Legs: Your dog is showing fear, concern, and submission 

Straight Out: Your dog is showing neutrality, and is feeling neutral to the situation. They could also be showing curiosity. If your dog is happy, their tail will be in a neutral or slightly raised position with a wagging tail. 

Tail Freezes Mid Wag: This is your dog signaling that they’ve had enough of the situation. They are showing a threat without being aggressive. This may happen when a stranger is petting your dog, and your dog is trying to communicate they are no longer comfortable. 

Wag More, Bark Less? Wagging Does Not Always Mean Happy 

While wagging tails can be signs of happiness and excitement, they can also mean many different things. It is important to pay attention to their other body language signs in relation to the tail movement, especially if you are dealing with a dog that is not yours.

For example, if your dog is wagging his tail, but has tense facial muscles, it could mean signs of stress or fear. If the face is relaxed, it could be a sign of happiness. Other areas to pay attention to is your pet’s fur: is their coat smooth and relaxed, or is the fur bristled up along the spine? Paying attention to these other signals can help you understand your dog’s mood, behavior, and stress levels. 

Each Dog is an Individual and Unique 

Just as humans express themselves differently in similar situations, so do dogs! While the tips above are great general ques to pay attention to, each dog is unique and will express themselves differently from the next. Pay attention to your dogs tail and body language in different situations, so you can better read their mood and understand their intentions.

The veterinary experts at Godspeed Animal Care are here to help you decipher your pup’s many signals, and care for your pet throughout their lifetime. Call us at (757) 253-0656 with any questions or concerns regarding your pet’s behavior.  

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