Archive for the ‘Pets and Advice’ Category

People are discovering that dogs really are proving to be man’s best friend. In recent years more and more studies are linking pets, especially dogs, with people successfully coping with depression.

Researchers at the University of Missouri School of Veterinary Medicine found that people who petted a dog for at least 20 minutes experienced a rise in serotonin. Serotonin is a brain chemical that regulates moods. People who suffer from depression often exhibit low serotonin levels. When people interact with canine companions not only do they physically exhibit signs of improvement but their increased serotonin levels offer proof of their recovery.

Many dogs will comfort their owners when they are sad. They will actually lick away tears or nuzzle a hand until they are petted…thus distracting their human companion from dark thoughts.

A dog also requires physical interaction. Feeding, grooming and walking a dog are all beneficial activities which can help people break away from the gripping effects of depression.

Caring for a dog can also help increase self-esteem and self-worth. Those people who feel worthless will actually find value when another creature totally depends on them for their well-being.

People who are depressed often feel unloved. Dogs easily portray unconditional love as when they greet you at the door..tail wagging…tongue lolling….and whining with excitement. They offer a compassionate, non-judgmental ear and don’t interrupt with opinions and advice.

Many programs now offer canine therapy to treat depression in hospitals, nursing homes, and other facilities. Some are specially trained to bring tissues to those who are crying or initiate play with those who are apathetic.

Dogs are amazing creatures of Grace and deserve our utmost care and compassion. If you are lucky enough to share you life with a dog(s) give him a special hug and appreciate all that he brings to your life.

Courtesy of Becky Kimes – Divine Healing for Animals

Your puppy is hiccupping frequently and you are getting worried. Of course as a puppy “mom” repeated hiccups can be alarming. This being said however, it is generally normal behavior in a puppy. Hiccups can begin right after eating a meal, but can occur anytime and can persist for a few minutes.

For a puppy, hiccups without regurgitation are generally not a sign for alarm. However, regurgitation, which is the act of suddenly upchucking undigested food or water with hardly any effort by the dog.

Vomiting on the other hand requires heaving, wrenching and abdominal activity and it generally takes more time and effort on the part of the dog. Frequent Regurgitation after eating in puppies can be caused by abnormalities of the esophagus which may be the result of a birth defect that may require surgical intervention.

If there are any concerns, contact your vet.

Kudzu is truly a gem! We saw her again at the Great Pyrenees rescue in Winston/Salem, NC. She is not ready to come home with us yet, but the 1-1/2 hour drive to see her was worth it! All her others sisters and brother are adopted, except Amber. She still needs a home as well as the other beautiful dogs there.

Many people now are turning to a professional pet sitter to take care of there pets.

People used to turn to neighbors and friends to watch their animals when needed or dropped them off at the boarder. Many people got tired of imposing on friends or felt guilty about leaving them at the kennel. Why not in home daycare?

Doing it this way will allow less stress, they are at their home.

While there, I can bring in the mail, water your plants, turn on and off lights making it look like you are home, when you are not.