Taking Care of My Buddy

This is my little buddy.  Today was vaccination day, and he wasn't too happy about it.  He got all his vaccinations at once, a blood test, a fecal exam (thrill!) and his nails filed.  As usual however, he was so quiet and mellow.  He is a wonderful little friend.

It was a rather expensive morning...total cost for medications and vaccinations came to $195.  Yikes!  But that is the cost of keeping him healthy and free of parasites, and it is well worth it.

We have to go back soon to have his teeth cleaned...another $77, but just like people, problems with gums/teeth can cause other problems like kidney, heart, etc.  So I will drop him off one day and leave him while they clean his little chompers.

I am sharing all this because for those of you who don't yet have a dog or other pet, I want to remind you of the ongoing costs beside food and shelter.  I always get "rescue" animals, so I have never paid a huge price for my animals.  They have all been fantastic companions though.  But, if you have a dog or cat, it is IMPERATIVE that you get their yearly shots and vet visit.  Buddy also has grass allergies and I have to be careful not to let him get too excited about rolling around in the yard and rubbing his face in the grass!  Unfortunately, he loves doing just that and he sometimes needs an antihistamine to combat the runny nose and eyes that follow such a romp.

I also am a huge fan of the tablets you can obtain now for heartworm, flea and other parasite control.  They are flavored, chewable and one time a month easy!  If you are going to have a pet it is really important to be a responsible pet owner.  Check out that food you buy, and make sure that it is formulated for the size/type of dog you have.  You really can't "cheap out" and expect your dog to stay healthy.  The ingredients in your dog's diet are really important, and they need a variety of vitamins and minerals just like we do.  In spite of the fact that ALL doggies seem to just love "people food", most table scraps are not suitable for rover.  Oh, an occasional bite of lean chicken or other meat won't hurt, but regular feeding from the table is inadvisable.  It can also make the dog fat!!

So, besides giving your puppy hugs and pets and kindness, remember to take care of his/her medical needs just like you would a child.  They are completely dependent on you to take care of them properly.  Now go pet that puppy!

God Bless, Love-Peace-Joy!

My Buddy Has Allergies

I have always been aware that dogs can have many of the same health issues as humans. Therefore, it shouldn't have come as a surprise when my little Boston Terrier, Buddy, presented with severe allergy symptoms. His nose was runny, his eyes were runny and reddened, and other sensitive little parts of his body were red and swollen...sigh.

So, off to the Vet we go. Buddy as it turns out is allergic to GRASS! I don't know if it is just our particular grass, Tift Bermuda, or any and all grass. When he goes outside to go potty, Buddy usually just makes a quick trip around the yard and does his business and comes right back in. Two days ago, however, he decided to have a rollicking roll in the grass...and apparently that was the beginning of the problem.

After a cortisone shot, some antibiotics for the most irritated areas on his little body and some allergy cream, and a prescription for antihistamines, Buddy is feeling much better. Buddy, by the way, is the "PERFECT" dog. He is quiet. Buddy never barks and if he occasionally does, it sounds more like a cough than a bark. He doesn't whine to get out of his crate. He was crate trained in ONE night! So, if dealing with allergies is the only problem we have, we will deal with allergies.

Please remember that if you take the move to get an animal, make sure you give them the same care you would a family member. They deserve to have the best food, their annual shots, regular visits to the vet and all the love you can shower on them. In return, they will love you unconditionally and faithfully. It has been proven that having a pet can lower your blood pressure and generally cause you to have better health! Just make sure you have the time and resources to give them what they need too!

Additionally, you may want to consider pet insurance. Those vet bills can get a little steep if your pet develops a serious problem. There are also "credit cards" which can be used to pay for a large expense which will make it possible for you to spread the cost over a length of time. I actually have CARE CREDIT, and it is a card which has no interest if you pay the amount back within a six month period.

I have always had animals, and I have always enjoyed them. Just like people, they have their quirks and own personalities, so be careful to choose a dog that will match your family's needs! Enjoy!