Everybody loves kittens. Who wouldn’t? They’re soft, playful, and sweet. But if you’re thinking of adopting a feline companion, it’s worth considering that the needs of a kitten may not be an ideal fit for your lifestyle. Providing a loving home to an older cat brings its unique rewards, as many happy owners can attest. Older Cats are Tidier and Better Behaved “Older kitties are usually quieter, less destructive and neater than kittens,” says Debby F. of Napa Valley, California. “As much fun as kittens certainly are, they are so much work to protect, entertain, and help adapt. If you’ve ever seen a kitten go wild in a litter box, scramble up drapes or play soccer with kibble, you know what I mean!” Nicolas D. in Brooklyn, New York, had an especially rewarding experience with an older cat, but not until after he first understood the demands of raising a kitten. “Back in 2000, I rescued a terrified, flea-ridden kitten from under a car outside my apartment. He was a lot of work! He was ping-ponging all over the house. He got his claws on everything he could. I had to ‘child-proof’ my apartment because he had so much energy and curiosity. He was just being a normal kitten. I wasn’t prepared for the effort and supervision.” Luckily, Nicolas was able to find his kitten a more suitable home. It turned out that a senior cat was just right for Nicolas. “I adopted a cat from the KittyKind shelter. She was abandoned at a pet store in her crate when no one was looking. There was a note attached that said, ‘My name is Spirit. I’m 15 years old. Please take care of me.’ That just broke my heart.” Nicolas took Spirit home. “Spirit changed my life,” he says. “She was very mellow. Her scratching days were long behind her. She knew her litter box right away. I’d even take her to my local bar and she’d sit next to me in the booth, not a care in the world.” To a kitten, the world is brand new. Everything is something to be explored, and that means they have to be watched non-stop. Their curiosity often leads to clawing at surfaces, chewing objects, and romping around in ways that can be unintentionally destructive, like when they topple a lamp or sweep the entire contents of your desk onto the floor. Older cats are past that. Kittens also go through a teething process. Like humans, they have “baby teeth” that the Tooth Fairy collects before their permanent choppers grow in. Kittens will chew on objects as a way of shedding their baby teeth. Allison E. in Chicago, Illinois says, “I adopted an eight-year-old cat a couple of months ago, and she is absolutely perfect. She’s so well- behaved. She never scratches the furniture, keeps herself clean, doesn’t chew or bite anything.” When it comes to staying clean, kittens sometimes need help until they’ve learned how to self-groom. Until then, you may need to brush or wipe your kitten to keep them neat. They’re More Predictable “I really enjoy knowing what you’re getting with an older cat,” says Sheerah M. of Eureka, California. “With a kitten, you don’t know if they’re going to be a super mellow cat, or a little psycho.” An older cat will be more settled into who they are. A shelter can fill you in on a particular cat’s temperament, and if the cat is older, you can expect its personality to generally stay the same. An adult cat is also fully grown physically, which means you’re unlikely to experience any surprise changes in its appearance, whether in size or the length and texture of its hair. They’re Utterly Fascinating A cat that’s lived long enough to establish a personality can bring delightful, day-to-day surprises as you get to know it. Its history may be a mystery to you, but you’ll see hints of its backstory in its behavior. “As the months and years unfold with an older cat, it’s fun to discover all their little quirks and preferences,” says Nicolas D. “Like you discover that your cat goes crazy when she smells bread! Where did she get that from? You discover clues to their past. They can’t tell you, but they will absolutely show you. ‘I used to get belly rubs all the time!’” They’re More Chill “For me, the advantage of adopting an older cat is that they have an energy level similar to mine,” says Ann S. in Madison, Wisconsin. “At 55, I wouldn’t have the energy to constantly play with a kitten. I like a calmer, older cat.” While older cats should still be exercised through play, they don’t need as much stimulation as kittens do. If you’re pooped out after a day’s work, have physical limitations, or are older yourself, an older cat may be just your speed. Says Debby, “An older kitty will have routines and sleep more. They are often happy in a pool of sunshine or on an old down pillow.” They’re Great for Kids The youthful energy of a kitten may seem like a natural match for a child, but an older cat may actually be a better option for a household with kids. If you’re raising children, you may not have the extra time and energy necessary to raise a kitten, too. And because they’re full of vim and vigor, kittens are less likely to stay still and tolerate being petted, and that can be disappointing for kids. Kittens are also fragile and more likely to be hurt unintentionally. They’re a More Manageable Commitment Nicolas D. makes an excellent point when he says, “People need to remember that when they adopt a kitten, they’re potentially committed for twenty years. Are you going to be able to provide a safe and stable place for your friend for the next twenty years? What happens if you move? What happens if there are children, or partners, or roommates who can’t co-exist with a cat? It can be a big responsibility.” They’re More Loving “Older cats in general are more affectionate and cuddly,” says Debby F. “They’re done with being bouncy, chewy kittens, and finished with busy cat teenage-hood. They’re ready to sleep with you or next to you.” Debby also discovered how deeply loving and loyal and older cat can be. “We adopted a kitty whose owner went to assisted living. No one who visited the shelter wanted an old cat. He waited seven months there. When I heard this, I took him sight unseen. He’s been with us since 2015. He was my mother’s companion. Never left her side. When she died in 2018, he would not leave her bed for days. We’ve loved having older kitties. They give so much love.” They’re Waiting for Someone Like You Kittens get adopted quickly. All they have to do is look up with those big, pleading eyes from that teeny-tiny face and someone is bound to fall in love and take them home. But older cats face a bigger challenge. An older cat’s sweetness is often overlooked and they can spend months, even years in a shelter, yearning for a home and a human of their own. Some never get that chance. They’re deemed “unadoptable” and are euthanized. It’s a crying shame when mature cats have so much to offer. “Age discrimination is real in cats and people,” says Ann S. “I say equity for all!” Grieve and Adopt Again Some may shrink from adopting a senior cat because the thought of having a limited amount of time with a pet they’ve fallen in love with is heartbreaking. But what’s more heartbreaking is knowing that a loving animal is despairing in a shelter. Nicolas D. says adopting an older cat is worth it. “I’m not going to lie. Losing Spirit was awful. But then I remembered that there was another old cat in a cage somewhere, waiting for a home. That cat would much rather be in my home, while I grieve and heal, than spend another day sleeping on newspaper in a shelter.” Go to Google and search “animal shelters near me” or visit Petfinder to browse animals in your area that are available for adoption. You might also search their directory of animal welfare groups to find an organization near you that can introduce you to your next feline friend. There are so many reasons to adopt an older cat, and so few reasons not to. Heal a heart and fill your life with love today! CONTENT WRITER, BARKTIQUE + MEOW
Kim BrittinghamKim Brittingham is a content writer for Barktique + Meow, animal lover, and history buff residing at the Jersey Shore. She is the author of Read My Hips (Three Rivers Press/Random House, 2011) and Write That Memoir Right Now (Blackstone, 2013). She's a willing servant to a rescued miniature poodle named Clarice.
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What Makes Great Danes Great: From the Great Dane Rescue & Sanctuary of Minnesota and Wisconsin Karla Greb is well-qualified to tell you what’s so great about Great Danes. “Great Danes are one-of-a-kind,” she says. “I’m sure everyone says that about their dog or breed of choice, but having a 100-plus-pound dog that never leaves your side is something special.” Karla is the owner of a Great Dane named Cash, and she serves as President of the Great Dane Rescue & Sanctuary of Minnesota and Wisconsin. Her journey with the organization began in 2015 when she joined as a volunteer. The rescue is devoted to rehoming Great Danes in Minnesota and Wisconsin, with an on-site sanctuary where unadoptable Danes can live out their lives with comfort, loving attention, and dignity. Great Danes don’t have a tendency to be more aggressive than other breeds. However, their considerable size can be intimidating. In the minds of many people, the Great Dane’s size magnifies the commonplace challenges faced by owners of all types of dogs. “What smaller dogs get away with, a Great Dane just won't,” says Karla. “The little chihuahua down the road can act ferocious and even bite at ankles and it will be brushed off as annoying, whereas a barking Dane is perceived as aggressive without a lunge or an attempted bite.” Adult male Great Danes are typically 30-34 inches tall and weigh 120-200 pounds. Adult females grow to about 28-32 inches tall and weigh in around 100-130 pounds. The Great Dane’s unfair reputation often means that they’re passed up by dog lovers who might actually be a great match for the breed, and vice-versa. “They are total lap dogs that need nothing but your love. They are sensitive as all get out, and really long for human connection,” says Karla. “They aren’t called ‘Velcro dogs’ for nothing. They stick by your side, follow you around, and just want to be with their people. Once they make that connection with you, they are truly the sweetest and biggest babies.” Karla also says that Great Danes are “typically calm, cool and collected” and are capable of providing comfort. “I remember the first time my Great Dane heard me cry,” Karla says. “I was sobbing and he came over and sat on top of me. He started howling and crying out my bedroom window, as if he was trying to call for help.” When asked what kind of person would make the best pet parent for a Dane, Karla said, “Someone who is patient, gentle, kind, and loving, with a calm lifestyle. These giants need so much patience as they may work through different behavioral challenges.” Karla also points out that despite those long, strong legs, Danes don’t require an athletic owner. “I always joke that they don't need room to run, they need laps to sit on and couches to sleep on. They enjoy a calm walk through a park, and often don't need more activity than that.” Danes are often the victims of clumsy and even cruel handling by humans, including breeders. This can be the source of behavioral problems that contribute to an unwarranted bad reputation. “The rescue was started specifically for helping Great Danes, because they are often misunderstood,” Karla explained. “New owners of Danes often need education and mentorship on the breed. So many dogs are surrendered to our rescue with bite histories, but the biting is often provoked by a kiddo or a family member pushing boundaries. That’s not the dog’s fault, and they deserve a second chance, and not to be put down because of human error.” When Danes are surrendered to the Great Dane Rescue & Sanctuary, the organization matches them with experienced foster homes that work diligently on overcoming the stress and anxieties that come with being abandoned. “The type of people we like to see as fosters for our rescue dogs are patient, calm, kind, and willing to take advice. We have a lot of knowledgeable people within our rescue, and taking their feedback and instruction is important.” In some cases, the dogs may stay with the rescue for many months before the right home is found. The rescue’s goal is for their Great Danes to succeed in their forever homes, so they’re placed with families that are willing to continue working on the challenges that may come with each Dane. In speaking about a Dane’s introduction into a new home, Karla says, “There will always be a decompression period that is needed. Muzzle training is important to ensure everyone is safe throughout the transition.” She advises new Dane parents that, “Patience is key. Listen to the advice of the previous foster and the rescue. Ask questions ahead of time so that you are fully prepared for what might come. Our rescue is transparent with issues the dogs might have.” One common challenge Karla sees is a Dane’s trepidation around strangers, due to abuse or a lack of socialization. “While it’s hard to work through, the reward of is one-of-a-kind. Nothing compares to the connection you make with a Dane, and their love is something else,” Karla says. “I have the conversation with so many people that Danes are just ‘different’. You can have dogs all your life, but something about a Dane is just unexplainable. My Dane and I are so connected, we can be miles apart, and if I’m stressed out, he gets sick every single time.” The Great Dane Rescue & Sanctuary of Minnesota and Wisconsin accepts purebred Great Danes from all of Minnesota and Wisconsin, from individuals, shelters and animal control facilities. They occasionally accept Great Danes from other states on a case-by-case basis. They educate the public about the temperament, nutritional recommendations, and health concerns of Great Danes, and provide the best veterinary care available. If you’d like to support the noble efforts of the Great Dane Rescue & Sanctuary of Minnesota and Wisconsin, you can make a donation, sponsor a Dane, or contribute much-needed supplies from their wish list. CONTENT WRITER, BARKTIQUE + MEOW
Kim BrittinghamKim Brittingham is a content writer for Barktique + Meow, animal lover, and history buff residing at the Jersey Shore. She is the author of Read My Hips (Three Rivers Press/Random House, 2011) and Write That Memoir Right Now (Blackstone, 2013). She's a willing servant to a rescued miniature poodle named Clarice. Pet names are created in a variety of ways. I once met a woman who named her dog Dog. He was a stray that found his way into her life without ceremony, and his name served its purpose. He came when he was called. I also know a busy working woman who adopted two sibling cats and called them Brother and Sister – just as placeholders, but the names stuck because she didn’t have the time or energy to think of better ones. No approach to naming a pet is better than another, as long as our pets are given the love and care they deserve. However, some of us recognize the fun in choosing a pet’s name and we want to put more thought into it. Even when we’re enthusiastic about it, exactly how to name a pet can elude us. Here are some ideas that may generate the perfect name for your pet. Your Pet’s Appearance Plenty of pet names are inspired by physical appearance. These tend to be friendly names that make people smile, because they’re understood immediately. Who wouldn’t grin at a chocolate lab named Hershey, or a big gray British Shorthair cat called Stormy? Some things to consider: Color or texture of coat Examples:
Body type or size Examples:
Behavior Clues Sometimes a pet’s innate or unique behavior can inspire a name, whether it’s in their speed or athleticism, a habit, or their personality. Energetic pets Examples:
Affectionate pets Examples:
Exceptionally serene or even lazy pets Examples:
Your Favorite Things Many a pet name has been inspired by its owner’s passions and hobbies. Think about: Favorite TV shows, movies, books, and their characters Examples:
Hobbies and InterestsExamples:
Favorite celebrities, athletes, and people from historyExamples:
Popular Pet Names In 2020, these were the top ten most popular dog names among BarkBox subscribers:
Travel + Leisure published the entire list of the top 100 here. Curious about popular cat and dog names over the past 100 years? This fun article from Mental Floss lists them by decade. “Smokey” and “Max” are high-rankers. You Look Like a Bartholomew After all of this, if you’re still having trouble deciding on a name for your pet, sometimes it just takes one good look at their sweet face. Your gut may tell you what to name your pet, and that perfect moniker – whether it’s Princess, Zeus, of Foo-Foo – will pop right out of your mouth. CONTENT WRITER, BARKTIQUE + MEOW
Kim BrittinghamKim Brittingham is a content writer for Barktique + Meow, animal lover, and history buff residing at the Jersey Shore. She is the author of Read My Hips (Three Rivers Press/Random House, 2011) and Write That Memoir Right Now (Blackstone, 2013). She's a willing servant to a rescued miniature poodle named Clarice. As we move into the summer months, many of us will be venturing outdoors in search of recreation on boats, in pools, and on the beach. But is it safe to bring your dog in the water? For some dogs, swimming is in their DNA. Their breeds have been working in water for centuries. Take the Portuguese Water Dog, for example. This breed has a long history as the fisherman’s helper, trained to carry objects between ships or from ship to shore. Now, that’s an experienced swimmer! But not all dogs take naturally to water. Here’s what you need to know before you take your four-legged bestie swimming. DISCLAIMER: THIS WEBSITE DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained on this website are for informational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your Veterinarian, physician or other qualified care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before taking your pet swimming, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. Some Dogs Aren’t Swimmers Contrary to popular belief, not all dogs are born to swim. Some breeds have unique physical features that may make them susceptible to drowning, such as those with short legs, a stocky build, or short nose. Their bodies aren’t made to stay afloat, and short legs take short strokes which may not be enough to keep them above water. Short-nosed dogs can become quickly overcome because their nasal passages are narrow and not suited to sustained deep breathing. Other dogs may be too weak to swim safely and comfortably. This includes dogs who are:
Water Can Scare Your Dog Water can be scary for your dog, especially when:
Grabbing a dog and throwing them into water to “sink or swim” is not only dangerous, but it can be cruel if they’re terrified. It may also create a fear of water for dogs that are young or strangers to water. Instead of traumatizing a dog, help them gain a sense of confidence so they can know the fun of water play and avoid panicking in a hairy situation. Life Jackets Are Important for All Dogs – Even Strong Swimmers Every dog, no matter how strong and capable in water, should wear a life jacket. Dogs can tire out. They can also encounter the unexpected, panic, and swallow water. They can get caught in currents that are stronger than they are and get carried far away from safety. Life jackets are made to save their lives. When shopping for a life vest for your dog, here are some things to keep in mind:
Good News: Most Dogs Can Learn to Swim If your dog isn’t built for swimming but still shows an interest in water, it’s still possible to enjoy time in the water together. Many dogs can be taught to swim, but it’s crucial that your dog wear a life jacket, even when they’re supervised and taking lessons. Many dog training facilities and even some doggy daycare centers offer swimming lessons for dogs. However, if you’re up for the DIY approach, here are some tips to help give your dog a positive experience:
More Tips for Keeping Your Dog Safe in Water Water can present a variety of perils to your dog. It’s especially important to be aware of these: Cold. Frigid water can cause hypothermia, a dangerous and potentially fatal condition in which the dog’s body temperature drops below its normal range. In addition to serious physical consequences, it can also impact a dog’s ability to swim, making them susceptible to drowning. With hypothermia, a dog’s blood travels to his major organs in order to keep them warm. That means there’s less blood in his legs, making swimming difficult. If your dog is shivering or cannot move his tail, get him to a vet immediately. Here’s an easy math equation to help keep your dog safe: Air temperature + water temperature = 100° or higher If the sum is under 100°, your dog will be safer out of the water. Heat. Extreme heat, just like extreme cold, can be fatal to your beloved pet. Prevent heat stroke and dehydration in your dog by making sure he has plenty of shade and clean water to drink. Even better, employ a cooling pad or cooling vest for added comfort and safety. Sun Damage. Yes, dogs get sunburn, too, especially those with lighter coats that allow the sun’s rays through to the skin. But even a dog with a thick, dense coat can be easily burned on the nose. Pack your doggie sunscreen. Swallowing Water. It’s inevitable that your dog is going to swallow some water while swimming. But swallowing too much could make him sick. A snack of freeze-dried or dehydrated food can help soak up some of the excess water in your dog’s stomach. A better option, of course, is prevention. Keep swimming sessions short and sweet, about 10 minutes or less. Critters. When swimming in a natural body of water, your dog is going to share space with other creatures. Some may not be so friendly. For example, in fresh water, snakes and snapping turtles may bite. In some areas, alligators are a very real danger and can take your dog down in the blink of an eye. And in the ocean…well, there’s no shortage of dangers lurking there, including stinging jelly fish, barbed rays, sharks and more. There are few ways to entirely protect your dog from water critters, but it’s important to steer clear of areas where aggressive predators are known to be present, and to keep an eye on your dog at all times. Sharp Objects. Rivers, ponds and oceans are littered with rocks and seashells, some of them quite sharp, which can slice a dog’s paw. Walk through the water yourself first to checks things out. Fish Hooks. Be aware of the possibility of discarded fish hooks in natural bodies of water. A hook containing juicy, delicious bait will be irresistible to a dog, and the hook itself will almost certainly injure him. If your dog gets a hook in his mouth, rush him to a vet immediately. Toxic Algae. In the past few years, it’s become increasingly common for natural bodies of water to be closed for human recreation due to toxic blue-green algae. It can make both people and animals ill. Be aware of local alerts concerning toxic algae blooms and avoid waters where harmful algae is present. Strong Currents. Powerful water currents are an all-too-common cause of drowning, because currents can come from out of nowhere, and are often stronger than even the strongest swimmer. To be safe, keep your dog on an extra-long leash (about 30 feet), so in the event that a current starts to carry your dog away, you can tow him back to safety. Exhaustion. Even without the danger of strong currents, dogs can tire easily in water, including in a pool. They may get lost in their own enthusiasm, and then when the reality of their exhaustion seems to hit from out of nowhere, they can flounder. Keep a close eye on your dog, and encourage frequent breaks. Dogs are our best friends. No wonder we love their company wherever we go! But when planning a day of water fun, it’s important to consider a dog’s comfort and safety. By taking the right precautions, we can enjoy the warm-weather pleasures of a refreshing swim with our four-legged friend and remember it fondly, forever. CONTENT WRITER, BARKTIQUE + MEOW
Kim BrittinghamKim Brittingham is a content writer for Barktique + Meow, animal lover, and history buff residing at the Jersey Shore. She is the author of Read My Hips (Three Rivers Press/Random House, 2011) and Write That Memoir Right Now (Blackstone, 2013). She's a willing servant to a rescued miniature poodle named Clarice. We all love the thrill of opening up packages or handwritten letters. Something magical happens when we feel the paper under our fingers and hear the tear of the envelope or package tape. Our curiosity is piqued to see what’s inside. That moment of anticipation is fun, and it allows us to process the gift or letter in a slower, more appreciative way. Digital mail just can’t compare. Why delivered gifts make an impact Sending a gift through the mail instead of presenting it in person doesn’t have to diminish its impact. In fact, choosing the right gift online can make a lasting impression. It’s all in the presentation. At Barktique + Meow, our goal is to make every delivery a delight to open. For us, packaging the customized gift is top of mind, and we don’t want to sacrifice the experience of opening it, either. After all, first impressions really do matter. When a person receives a gift by mail, they can choose when to open it. We often wait to open a package until we have a moment to really look at it. They're a few quiet minutes that the recipient gets all to themselves, without digital ads or pop-ups. Who has time to rewrap? When ordering a gift online, we have choices in a variety of shapes and forms, coming in all sorts of random packaging—which frankly, doesn’t feel “gifty”. When this happens, we have to unwrap the packaged gift, then rewrap it so it presents more like a gift. That feels unnecessary. If you’re short on time or you don’t want to rewrap a gift when it arrives, your presentation can still have that “wow factor” if you shop with a business that packages their mail order gifts for a special unboxing experience. Send it right the first time. When you send a pet welcome or memorial gift from Barktique + Meow, the recipient receives a package so beautifully designed that the simple act of opening it feels like a hug from you. The fact that the gift is personalized with their pet’s image and name and includes a custom message makes it even more special. Sometimes half the thrill of receiving a great gift is in how it’s delivered. Even a gift purchased in a hurry can be the one they’ll still be talking about years from now. Choose a company that keeps the packaging presentation top of mind when sending your gift directly to your loved one. It will make all the difference. CONTENT WRITER, BARKTIQUE + MEOW
Kim BrittinghamKim Brittingham is a content writer for Barktique + Meow, animal lover, and history buff residing at the Jersey Shore. She is the author of Read My Hips (Three Rivers Press/Random House, 2011) and Write That Memoir Right Now (Blackstone, 2013). She's a willing servant to a rescued miniature poodle named Clarice. A first pet is a magical part of childhood. First pets awaken our compassion for vulnerable creatures and introduce us to one of life’s sweetest forms of love. Bringing home a new pet also creates a hands-on opportunity for kids to learn responsibility. But how can you be sure that your child will take their caretaking role seriously? These tips will help ensure a mutually rewarding experience for your child and your pet. 1. Have a Pet Chat. Talk with your kids about the responsibilities of pet ownership before you welcome the new pet into your home. Introduce them to the idea that a pet is not a toy; it’s a living being, just like them. Ask them to reflect on what their own needs are throughout the day. Do they feel hungry? Thirsty? Sleepy? Do they yearn to go outdoors and play? Explain that pets feel the same way, and that the pet will depend on the child to meet its needs. 2. Assign Specific Responsibilities. Every child, regardless of age, will need some guidance in how to participate in the pet’s care. Establish routine responsibilities for the child, like feeding, walking, or cleaning up after the pet. 3. Explain Safety Issues. Pets can face dangers indoors and out. Make kids aware of these hazards and explain what must be done to protect the pet. Here are some common examples:
4. Demonstrate Kind Hands. Pets invite affection, but children may not realize how their touch can be uncomfortable and even painful to the animal. Demonstrate the correct and gentle way to pick up, hold, and caress a pet. 5. Perfect Their Walking Technique. Walking a dog requires skill – especially a dog with abundant energy. Show your child the right way to:
A few sessions of professional dog training can be a bonding experience between dog and child. 6. Respect Rest. Some pets are more social than others, but even the most gregarious pet needs wind-down time. When you bring home a new pet, kids will be excited and may inadvertently overtax the animal with attention. That could lead to a grumpy pet who’d rather avoid your children than bond with them. It helps to remind a child of how it feels to be sleepy, and that animals often need more rest than people. Encourage them to “let sleeping dogs lie”. To learn more about dog sleep patterns and cycles, check out Your Dog Advisor's recent post. Now it’s time to pat yourself on the back. You’ve made the decision to bring home a new pet to your kids, and it’s one that will enrich your child’s life in so many ways – with love, compassion, and by teaching important life skills like patience and responsibility. By laying that foundation of conscientiousness and care, you’re giving your child one of the greatest gifts to humankind: the loving connection that’s possible with an animal. CONTENT WRITER, BARKTIQUE + MEOW
KIM BRITTINGHAMKim Brittingham is a content writer for Barktique + Meow, animal lover, and history buff residing at the Jersey Shore. She is the author of Read My Hips (Three Rivers Press/Random House, 2011) and Write That Memoir Right Now (Blackstone, 2013). She's a willing servant to a rescued miniature poodle named Clarice. Congratulations on your decision to give a pet a safe and loving home! If you’re a first-time pet owner, you may not realize what potential dangers lurk in your home, especially for an insatiably curious puppy or kitten. Keep your new family member safe by puppy proofing or kitten proofing your home. Even experienced pet owners may need a refresher course when bringing home a new pet, especially if you’re accustomed to living with an older or ultra-chill pet with few exploratory urges. You may have forgotten what it’s like to be vigilant, and a pet in new surroundings will inevitably want to scout the terrain. To keep them safe, take these easy steps to cat proof or dog proof your home. Here’s what you need to know: Pet Toxins: Know ‘Em and Stow ‘Em The average home is full of things that can be toxic to pets. And we’re not just talking about the obvious substances like rodent poison and cleaning supplies. Commonplace foods and house plants can cause illness and even be deadly to animals. Eliminate or carefully store these items out of your pet’s reach: - Food and Drink Chocolate, grapes, onions, and many more common edibles can be poisonous to your pet. The ASPCA offers a list of these substances and how they can harm your cat or dog. - Drugs Drugs account for 22% of pet poisonings. Keep all prescription and over-the-counter medications safely stored. Always open medicines over a sink to prevent spills and wayward pills that pets could lick up. - Household Chemicals It probably goes without saying that safely storing household chemicals is a must for a pet-safe home. Here are some you might not have thought of:
- Plants It’s worthwhile scoping out your indoor and outdoor plants for varieties that can sicken or even be fatal to your pet. Here are some of the most common:
The Pet Poison Helpline offers a more in-depth list of plants that are unsafe for pets. Anything Can Be a Chew Toy – And That’s Not a Good Thing Pets like to nibble and gnaw, especially young ones testing their new choppers. But that can be bad news, for you and for them. It helps to stay tidy and keep all of your belongings stowed out of your pet’s reach or in pet-proof cabinets and drawers. Here are some things to be careful with:
Now is the time to live by the adage, “A place for everything, and everything in its place.” Border Control One of the simplest and best ways to keep a pet out of harm’s way is to cordon off danger zones and create safe spaces with fences and gates. For puppies in particular, it’s all too easy to bound recklessly into the street or tumble down stairs. The time and attention it takes to puppy proof or kitten proof your home isn’t much, and it’s worth it to create a safe haven. You brought them into your home to provide a better life. These simple pet-proofing measures will help ensure that their life is long, healthy, and happy. For any animal poison-related emergency, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) 24 hours a day, 365 days a week at 888-426-4435. A consultation fee may apply. CONTENT WRITER & CONTRIBUTOR, BARKTIQUE + MEOW
Kim BrittinghamKim Brittingham is a content writer for Barktique + Meow, an animal lover, and a history buff residing at the Jersey Shore. She is the author of Read My Hips (Three Rivers Press/Random House, 2011) and Write That Memoir Right Now (Blackstone, 2013). She's a willing servant to a rescued miniature poodle named Clarice. What’s the next best thing to welcoming an animal companion into your home? When a friend brings home a new pet!
Whether we get to scratch, snuggle or pet our friend’s new addition in person, or wave long-distance via Zoom, we experience the vicarious thrill of new love. And isn’t it wonderful that there’s so much love to go around that we can adore someone else’s pet without diminishing our love for our own? |
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