Notes From the Pet Publicist

The Friendliest Airlines for Pets

The Friendliest Airlines for Pets

It's summertime! And for a lot of people that means traveling. If you plan on flying with your pet this year, here’s a list of 5 most pet-friendly airlines. You’re pet will thank you!

1.            Continental

The airline’s PetSafe program has a 24-hour Live Animal Help Desk that tracks your pet from origin to destination. It’s more expensive than other airlines, but your pet will travel in climate-controlled vehicles for connections and you’ll earn extra miles. The airline also allows small pets to be carried in the cabin on most domestic flights.

2.            JetBlue Airways

JetBlue launched JetPaws last summer, providing passengers a pet carrier bag tag, two TrueBlue points each way, a welcome e-mail and pet-travel guide, all for no additional cost. But like almost every other airline, they have raised their in-cabin pet charge. 

3.            Airtran

Airtran is currently the least expensive airline to fly with your small pet: just $69 each way. They only allow small pets that can travel the cabin, so if you have a larger breed that needs to be checked-in, this airline isn’t for you.

4.            American Airlines

The airline has assisted transporting animals from popular zoos in cargo. Although they allow a limited number of pets in the cabin, they ask passengers traveling with pets to make special notes for their animals flying in cargo and promise to abide by all requests.

5.            United Airlines

They accept small cats, dogs and birds in the cabin; rabbits, hamsters and guinea pigs as checked baggage and other animals including parrots, cockatiels and ferrets in United Cargo. Shipping by cargo is for items, like some pets, that you can't check as baggage.

For more information about these airlines and their pet policies, click on the airline name above.

Fourth of July Safety Tips

For most people, nothing is better than lounging in the backyard on the Fourth of July with good friends and family – including four-legged ones! While it may seem like a great idea to reward your pet with scraps from the grill and bring him or her along for the fireworks, in all reality some festive foods and activities can be potential hazards for them. Here are a few tips from the Humane Society of the United States for keeping your pet safe this Fourth of July:

•                Resist the urge to take your pet to fireworks displays.

•                Do not leave your pet in the car. With only hot air to breathe inside a car, your pet can suffer serious health effects—even death—in a few short minutes. Partially opened windows do not provide sufficient air, but they do provide an opportunity for your pet to be stolen.

•                Keep your pets indoors at home in a sheltered, quiet area. Some animals can become destructive when frightened, so be sure that you've removed any items that your pet could destroy or that would be harmful to your pet if chewed. Leave a television or radio playing at normal volume to keep him company while you're attending Fourth of July picnics, parades, and other celebrations.

•                If you know that your pet is seriously distressed by loud noises like thunder, consult with your veterinarian before July 4th for ways to help alleviate the fear and anxiety he or she will experience during fireworks displays.

•                Never leave pets outside unattended, even in a fenced yard or on a chain. In their fear, pets who normally wouldn't leave the yard may escape and become lost, or become entangled in their chain, risking injury or death.

•     Make sure your pets are wearing identification tags so that if they do become lost, they can be returned promptly. Animals found running at-large should be taken to the local animal shelter, where they will have the best chance of being reunited with their owners.

Comments or questions? Please post them here. Thanks! 

Comments or questions? Please post them here. Thanks!

Solutions to Common Dog Problems

Dogs come in many different sizes, breeds, shapes and colors, but no matter the type of dog, pet owners are faced with some unique challenges. According to the 2009/2010 American Pet Products Association National Pet Owners Survey, dog owners reported sadness when they die as the main drawback for owning a dog. While some aspects of dog ownership can be unpleasant, pet product manufacturers have come up with compromises for living harmoniously, and 95% of dog owners report companionship, love, company and affection as the leading benefit of owning a dog.

Here are some popular dog products produced by APPA members to help owners overcome some of the minor drawbacks to owning dogs as reported in the 2009/2010 Survey:

Dog Problem: finding care for a dog when owners are away from home is an issue for thirty-two percent (32%) of dog owners.

Solution: Talk To Me Rubber Treatball

The Talk To Me Rubber Treatball is a great toy for dogs that suffer from separation anxiety. Owners can record and re-record a voice message for their dog while they are away from home. The Treatball is motion activated and replays the message to the dog as it dispenses treats. www.talktomepets.com 

Dog Problem: damage to furniture, carpet and floors was reported as a drawback to owning a dog for twenty percent (20%) of respondents.

Solution: Cardinal Gates VersaGate 

Keep the dog out of the dining room and off of the couch with a pet gate. The versatile gate comes with two extensions and features a 40-inch door section for easy access between rooms. 

www.cardinalgates.com

Solution: Bamboo Mud Magnet Paw Cleaner

 

When dogs come indoors, they bring water, dirt and grime with them. With  Bamboo Mud Magnet Paw Cleaner, pet owners can quickly clean off dog’s paws before they enter the house or car.  

www.bamboopet.com

Solution: Neater Pet Brands Neater Feeder

A sloppy dog can make quite a mess of the floors and walls with their food and water. The Neater Feeder is the ultimate feeding system for dogs because it contains food and water spills in separate reservoirs. The Neater Feeder is kick-proof and deters pests from getting the dog’s food or water. www.neaterfeeder.com

Dog Problem: dog owners mentioned shedding as drawbacks to living with a dog friend.

Solution: FURminator deShedding Tool 

The FURminator deShedding tool quickly and easily removes the loose, dead undercoat hair that is the underlying source of shedding. The tool has a stainless steel edge that grabs loose undercoate hair without damaging the topcoat. 

www.furminator.com

Solution: Bissel Pet Hair Vacuum

Banish dog hair, dust and dander from the furniture and floor with the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Vacuum. The vacuum uses MultiCyclonic separation for superior suction and the Pet Hair Lifter and rotating brush to remove dirt and pet hair 

www.bissell.com

 

 

    

 

 

 

Solutions to Common Cat Problems

Cats are known for being affectionate, comedic and curious, but even cat lovers admit living with a cat has some challenges. According to the 2009/2010 American Pet Products Association (APPA) National Pet Owners Survey, cat owners reported sadness when they die as the main drawback for owning a cat. While some aspects of cat ownership can be unpleasant, pet product manufacturers have come up with compromises for living harmoniously, and 89% of cat owners report companionship, love and company as the leading benefit of owning a cat.

Here are some popular cat products produced by APPA members to help owners overcome some of the minor drawbacks to owning cats as reported in the 2009/2010

Survey:

Cat Problem: sadness when the cat dies was reported by fifty percent (50%) of cat owners as a drawback to owning a cat.

Solution: Little Gifts I Love My Cat Keychains
Celebrate the furry love of your life with an “I Love My Cat” Keychain. The keychain features either a longhaired or shorthaired cat charm with four other cat themed charms, to always remember your special friend. Little Gifts keychains are available for cats, horses, birds and breed-specific dogs. 
www.littlegifts.com

Cat Problem: cats climbing on countertops, tabletops and furniture frustrates thirty-four percent (34%) of cat owners.

Solution: Pet Treehouses’s Adult Treehouse
The Adult Treehouse is perfect for households with one or more curious cats. The Treehouse gives cats a place to rest, climb and play, so they aren’t tempted to jump on counters and tables. The natural movement of the tree brings out the kitten in your cat and looks beautiful in any style home. 
www.pettreehouses.com

Cat Problem: shedding was reported as a drawback to owning a cat by thirty-nine percent (39%) of respondents.

Solution: Vet’s Best Vita-Derm™ Shed + Itch Relief
Vet’s Best uses Omega-6 and Omega-3 Fatty Acids to make Vita-Derm™ Shed + Itch a great nutritional supplement for cats to support healthy skin and a lustrous coat. Just add the yummy liver-flavored liquid to your cat’s food to keep them silky and shiny and prevent excess shedding. 
www.vetsbest.com

Solution: StickySheets Pet Hair Removal Sheets
Living with a cat doesn’t mean you have to look like one too. StickySheets get rid of cat hair on clothing, carpets, furniture and car upholstery. Use the 6 square feet of hair gripping surface multiple times before discarding, and finally remove all of the stubborn pet hair from your house. http://www.stickysheets.com/

Cat Problem: cat owners mentioned odor and clean up as drawbacks to living with a feline friend.

Solution: OdoBan Ready-to-Use
Cat owners can finally get rid of pungent cat odors and messes with OdoBan Ready-to-Use. It cleans, disinfects and deodorizes spaces you share with your cat leaving a fresh eucalyptus scent behind. Apply OdoBan Ready-to-Use to carpet, upholstery and hard surfaces that have an unpleasant cat smell. 
www.odoban.com

Cat Problem: damage to furniture, carpets and floor were cited by thirty-six percent (36%) of cat owners surveyed as a drawback to owning a cat.

Solution: Simple Solution Cat Flushable Hairball Pick-Ups
Cats can create quite a mess at times, but Simple Solution’s Cat Flushable Hairball Pick-Ups can handle any kind of cat mess. The large wipes are a sanitary and quick approach for picking up pet waste inside. Pick-Ups are safe to use on carpets, hard floor surfaces and upholstery, and they can be conveniently flushed down the toilet. They come in an easy-dispense canister and have a fresh citrus scent. http://www.simplesolution.com/

Solution: CatAbove Company Cat Hammock with Wood Stand
The Cat Hammock molds to your cat’s shape to provide them with a sense of warmth, security and comfort. Made of 100% wood and with a two-sided removable fabric machine washable hammock, your furniture will be spared while your cat lounges in this comfy hammock. www.catabove.com

Please let me know if their are other things you love about cats or products you think are great problem solvers. Thanks!

Irish Dog Breeds

On Saint Patrick's Day we turn our attention to all things Irish: shamrocks, the Blarney Stone and, of course, things green. The Emerald Isle has also brought us a wonderful selection of dogs. Back in the time of Saint Patrick, breeds like the water spaniel, wolfhound and the beagle were reserved for nobility; commoners had to be content with terriers. Now, of course, Irish breeds of all types – terriers included – are exceedingly popular on both sides of the Atlantic.

  

Glen of Imaal Terrier–Glen of Imaal, which is a valley in the Wicklow Mountains, is the region in Ireland after which this hardy breed is named. Longer than tall and sporting a double coat of medium length, the "Glen" possesses great strength and conveys the impression of a dog of good substance. This is a working terrier, who must have the agility, freedom of movement and endurance to do the work for which it was developed. Like its Irish counterparts, the Glen isalso courageous, and always ready to give chase. When working, it is active, agile, silent and intent upon its game. Otherwise, the Glen can be a docile companion for families with older children. Recognized by the AKC in 2004, the Glen of Imaal is one of the newest AKC breeds.

 
 

Irish Setter—Green may be the color of the Irish, but deep mahogany is the color of this four-legged beauty. The Irish Setter was among the original breeds recognized by AKC at its inception in 1884 and is part of the Sporting Group. Irish Setters have rollicking personalities and require a good amount of exercise to satisfy their breed instincts; they are tough and tireless field retrievers. They are also loving companion dogs who enjoy the company of children. It takes about three years for this breed to fully mature into adulthood, so if you’re considering bringing an Irish Setter into your home, you should be prepared for an active, fun-loving dog.

 
 

Irish Terrier–This breed was featured in the 2007 movie "Firehouse Dog," where it was cast as a canine hero. Not surprising, considering that Irish Terriers were used to transport messages between troops on the front lines in World War I. Their bravery and spirit make them incomparable pals, and they possess great tenacity. Loyal and friendly, Irish Terriers hardily adapt to any situation, and they are deeply committed to their owners. Irish Terriers served as longtime mascots for the Notre Dame Football team, providing halftime entertainment for adoring crowds. The Irish Terrier was first recognized by the AKC in 1885.

 
 

Irish Wolfhound–While Irish literature refers to this ancient breed in many ways, including "Big Dogs of Ireland," Irish Wolfhounds were documented in Rome in the year 391 A.D., where they were presented to the Roman Counsel as gifts, which "all Rome viewed with wonder." No wonder-- they are the largest and tallest of the galloping hounds. Males should be a minimum of 32" tall and weigh 120 pounds; females should be a minimum of 30" tall and weigh 105 pounds. This is a swift breed, which hunts by sight, and needs an ample, fenced yard to accommodate its full gallop. As in early times, Irish Wolfhounds possess an extraordinary social temperament, as well as the intelligence to separate friend, family and foe.

Have an Irish Dog you’d like to recognize or a story you’d like to tell? I’d love to hear from you! Thanks!

 

 

Benefits of Horses

From showing to trail riding, horses bring entertainment and joy to pet owners around the country. According to the 2009/2010 American Pet Products Association (APPA) National Pet Owners Survey, horse owners reported companionship/company, love, and relaxation/relieves stress, as the top benefits to ownership. Of the 3.9 million households that own a horse, almost half buy gifts for their horses. Even 59 % of horse owners have made financial provisions in their wills or named a caretaker or guardian for their horse.

There are many jobs horses do extremely well and no technology has yet developed to replace them. For example, mounted police horses are still effective for certain types of patrol duties and crowd control. Cattle ranches still require riders on horseback to round up cattle that are scattered across remote, rugged terrain. Search and rescue organizations in some countries depend upon mounted teams to locate people, particularly hikers and children, and to provide disaster relief assistance. Horses can also be used in areas where it is necessary to avoid vehicular disruption to delicate soil, such as nature reserves.

Here are some popular horse products produced by APPA members to help owners return the love:

Petastic Naturals Equestrian Laundry Detergent

 

Equestrian Laundry Detergent contains a unique formula that is specifically designed for use on equestrian gear. This detergent is safe and effective for cleaning and deodorizing clothes, towels, blankets and other fabrics used during equestrian activities. Petastic Naturals do not contain toxins, petrochemicals, bleach ammonia, phosphates or other harmful chemicals. www.petastic.com

PetAg’s Mirra-Coat

 

Mirra-Coat is a skin and coat supplement that offers a blend of essential fatty acids and nutrients specifically required for a horse’s healthy skin and hair-coat. Horses respond to Mirra-Coat supplementation by increasing their level of essential fatty acids in the blood serum. Mirra-Coat contains vitamins A, B6, E, biotin and zinc and enhances maintenance of normal skin cells to develop and promote pliable, moisturized skin. www.petag.com

American Health Kennels, Inc. Mustang Munchies

 

Created by a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, Mustang Munchies were formulated with special attention to the health and well being of equine pets. Shaped like apples and carrots, they are made with whole-wheat flour, rolled oats and barley flour and provide horses with essential nutrients and vitamins. Real apples and carrots are grated into the treats and mixed with molasses, water and vegetable oil. www.americanhealthkennels.com

Healing Tree T-Zon Equine Dermal Care Cream

 

T-Zon is a fast acting professional strength cream that aids in the treatment of scratches, girth itch galls and sores for horses. The blend includes pure Australian Tea Tree Oil, 1 % Hydrocortisone and Aloe Vera in addition to other calming ingredients and conditioning emollients. T-Zon Equine Dermal Care Cream is anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal and anti-bacterial and is veterinarian formulated. www.healing-tree.com

Bare Skin Barrier- Fly Control for Your Horse

 

Bare Skin Barrier is an organic formula that protects horses from biting flies without using insecticides, pesticides or Pyrethrum. Horse owners can apply the formula on their horse’s chest, legs, ears, belly and to open sores safely and effectively. It stops tail rubbing and stomping to escape the discomfort caused by flies and insects. www.missywryn.com

 

Relaxation Music for Horses

 

Relaxation Music for Horses for Equine Well-Being is the only music CD that is contoured for hearing ranges of horses. The melodic soundtracks create a tranquil acoustic environment that diminishes stress in equines and facilitates the bond between humans and horses. www.musicforpetsandpeople.com

Please let me know if their are other things you love about horses or products you think are great for horse owners. Thanks!

Presidents and Their Dogs

 George Washington and the American Foxhound

America's first President was not only the father of his country but also the father of the American foxhound. He carefully bred and maintained his dogs, listing more than 30 hounds in his journals, including ones named Drunkard, Tipler and Tipsy.

 

Abraham Lincoln and Fido
This floppy-eared rough-coated dog of unknown ancestry lived with Lincoln in Springfield, Ill., for the five years before he became President. Upon his election, Lincoln decided that the dog would not survive the trip to Washington and, despite the objections of his son Tad, left Fido in Illinois. When Lincoln's body was returned to Springfield, Fido was brought out to meet the mourners.

 
Warren G. Harding & Laddie Boy
The 29th President not only gave his Airedale Terrier a hand-carved cabinet chair to sit in on high-level meetings, but also threw a birthday at the White House inviting all the neighborhood dogs, where they dined on dog biscuit birthday cake.

 
Calvin Coolidge & Rob Roy
Coolidge and his wife Grace kept an entire menagerie at their White House. In addition to a pair of white collies, Rob Roy and Prudence Prim, they kept numerous other dogs, plus raccoons, a donkey, a bobcat, canaries, a goose and a mockingbird.

 
Herbert Hoover and King Tut
In addition to this German shepherd, the 31st President owned two fox terriers named Big Ben and Sonnie, an elkhound named Weejie and an Irish wolfhound named Patrick.

 
Franklin D. Roosevelt and Fala
One of the most iconic first dogs, Roosevelt's Scottish terrier starred in a movie, was named an honorary Army private and had his own press secretary.

 
Harry S Truman and Feller
The 33rd President once famously said, "You want a friend in Washington? Get a dog." Evidently he didn't care much for friends, as he regifted a cocker spaniel, given to him as an unsolicited Christmas present in 1947, to the White House physician. Dog lovers around the country assailed the President for surrendering Feller, who came to be known as the Unwanted Dog.
 
 Check out more Presidents and their dogs at http://www.time.com/time/photogallery/0,29307,1830236_1746249,00.html

Valentine's Day

Valentine’s Day is here. Don’t forget your pets when shopping for your valentine this year. Here are a few of my favorite Valentines for the special pets in your life.

 

Fabuleash

Jewlery has always been the perfect Valentine’s Day gift for the one you love. Fabuleash offers beautiful jeweled leashes that dazzle even the most pampered puppies. The leashes are available in two different collections and dozens of gorgeous colors. The Haute Collection is made with genuine Swarovski crystal beads, and each FabuLeash contains a platinum tone electroplated brass chain handle with woven genuine leather. The Jewel Collection FabuLeashes are made with first quality faceted crystal acrylic beads and a double riveted nylon. Visit www.fabuleash.com for details.

Talk To Me® Valentine’s Day Gifts

Valentine’s Day means hugs and kisses, so fresh breath is a must if your Valentine is a canine! Dogs are devoted cuddlers and love to shower their owners with kisses, but sometimes bad breath can ruin the moment!! Good dental health care can alleviate bad breath and keep your dog healthy as well as a little fresh breath treat every now and then! Talk To Me® Pet Products offers their widely popular Talk To Me® Treats, perfect for the doggy Valentine in your life. Visit www.talktomepetproducts.com for a retailer near you.

Talk To Me® Treats are mint chew treats for dogs. They are even available in 1.5 oz tins, so it’s easy to simply toss them in your purse, pocket, or glove compartment and treat your pet to fresh breath while you’re out with your pet. For an additional gift for your Valentine pooch, give them the Talk To Me® Treatball to fill with fresh breath mint Talk To Me® treats!

Made with soft vinyl , this squeaker entices play and is perfect for Valentine’s. Found exclusively at Petsmart.

Increase the safety of your pet at night with this ultra-bright heart-shaped Safe-T-Tag with ID label on the back! Good for dogs and cats alike, this makes a great gift! Available at major retailers.

  

   

Winter Pet Safety

As winter is upon us, it’s good to take a few precautions to ensure that your pets are safe. Just like you or me, animals are strongly affected by cold temperatures, so now is the time to start thinking about how you can keep them comfortable and healthy during these next few months.

Some of this is common sense, but still serves as a good reminder. It’s a great idea to take your pet to your veterinarian for a check up.  This way, you can make sure they aren’t going to have any problems that could become worse as temperatures drop. This is really important for older pets, as they often have conditions like Arthritis that makes their joints very sensitive and tender in colder months.

The best way to prevent pet problems in the winter is to keep your pet indoors as much as possible. When on walks, keep them on a leash and close to you at all times. This way you can make sure that they aren’t going to get into anything dangerous, like anti-freeze or rock salt. A leash prevents them from wondering too close to frozen ponds or lakes with thin ice.

Here are 10 winter tips to help:

1. Wipe off your dog’s feet after a walk. He can ingest road salt, antifreeze, or other chemicals while licking his paws.

2. Make sure your pet has a warm place to sleep, away from any drafts.

3. We all know not to leave our pet in a car during summer, but the same goes for the winter, when a car basically acts as a refrigerator.

4. Tap your hood before starting your car. Cats have a tendency to make their way under the hood for warmth.

5. Regularly check your pet’s water bowl to make sure it isn’t frozen.

6. Keep your pet groomed. Knotted or matted hair doesn’t insulate properly.

7. Some days are colder than others. On those colder ones, it’s vital to keep your pet indoors.

8. Know the signs of hypothermia and frostbite. Here’s a great article that will help you out, http://hypothermia.org/animalhypo.htm

9. Be sure all antifreeze containers are tightly closed and placed on a high shelf.

10.  Keep your dog active. When it’s too cold to play outside, try playing some games indoors. Visit http://www.agilitybits.co.uk/games/indoor/indoor.html for a few fu ideas.

Comments or questions? Please post them here. Thanks!

 

 

 

Benefits of Owning a Pet Bird

If you’re thinking about adding a new pet to your family, it’s important consider your lifestyle and living situation so both you and your pet will be comfortable and happy. Maybe you live in an apartment or are unable to go on daily walks or simply want a companion that will be a little more unique than a dog or cat. If this sounds like you, a pet bird might just be perfect for you!

In the animal kingdom, birds are near the top when it comes to smarts. Think about it, what other pet is going to say “hello” when you walk in the door? Their capacity for learning and inquisitive nature makes them truly fascinating pets.  Because of their high IQ and eagerness to learn from their owners, birds are fairly easy to train. Because birds are relatively small, training is less physically demanding than working with larger animals, making them a good choice for the young or elderly.

Birds are truly lifelong companions. Anyone who has ever lost a pet knows how heartbreaking it can be. Many bird species live extraordinarily long lives, some living more than 100 years! This often eases the concerns of people who want a pet that they can love and enjoy for a very long time.

Here are a few products from the American Pet Product manufactures that can make bird ownership even more fun:

  

Parrot Wrapz

These Wrapz allow you to dress your parrot with style and fashion for any holiday or occasion; even compliment your parrot's personality. The Wrapz provide protection against the elements of weather, for those cold winter days and those warm summer nights. The Wrapz cover the parrot's chest and back, which is the primary plucking area, and provides safe and comfortable protection. www.parrotwrapz.com

Polly Wanna Pinata by Fetch it Pets
These pinatas are made out of all natural, non-toxic, 100% bird friendly materials and are available in two sizes. Owners can purchase Polly Wanna Pinatas either pre-filled with a healthy treat mixture of banana chips, raisins, pineapple and papaya or they can add their own toy or treat filling. www.fetchitpets.com   

Prevue Hendryx FeatherStone Heights Brownstone Bird Cage
Featherstone Heights are designer bird cages which replicate classic American home styles. The cages feature generous floor plans, a removable grille floor and pull-out drawer for easy cleaning. Each cage includes 2 outside access feed cups, 2 perches and has a large entry door and top access door. All cages are individually packed in full-color display boxes and are perfect for all small birds up to cockatiels. www.prevuepet.com

Shoulder Cape by Big Bird Products
The Shoulder Capes are made of poly/cotton prints, which are durable and washable fabrics with a cream colored poly/cotton lining, Shoulder Capes are great for all bird owners and are designed for long comfort and protective wear, while going about daily routines. They have a heavy Velcro fastener in the front and 2 “D” shape rings sewn on for interchanging bird toys and easy cleaning. There is even a treat pocket for storing your bird’s favorite snack. www.birdshouldercape.com

Birdola®Plus™ Cake

This two-pound cake contains black oil sunflower seeds, safflower, peanuts, white proso millet, calcium and grit for feeding wild birds. The seeds are held together with a natural binder allowing the birds to peck away their favorite seeds while keeping the cake in tact. http://www.birdola.com/