But Dogs Have Fur!

Well, the snow and cold has finally hitus here in the Northeast. Has hadn't had much of a winter, and very little snow until last week. While some of us ddged a bullet with the bad snow, we all got hit with the arctic blast. That means we all have to bundle up to stay warm outside.

What about your pets? I mean, that's why they have fur, right? Unfortunately, unless your animal spends a lot of time outside, chances are it hasn't developed a nice, thick, winter coat, hich is what they do in the wild. If your pet in primarily an indoor animal, you need to be careful about how long you leave it outside in the cold. They need to go outside to go potty, and if they go as soon as they get outside, there won't be a problem (we'll discuss salt at another time). If you need to keep them outside for an extended period of time, you should consider getting a sweater or coat for it. Don't overlook their paws, either. You might want to look into some of the cool boots and booties that are on the market for pets.

We pamper our pets, so it is important to make sure they are protected and safe during this coldest time of the year.

Please visit out website, at www.allforpetz.com, for all of your pets needs.

Valentines Day and Your Pets

The ASPCA has just released an important warning about your pets and Valentines Day. Here is the Alert they issued:

As Valentine’s Day approaches, you may be thinking about giving—or getting—the perfect gift. But did you know that the traditional tokens of affection—roses, chocolates, and other candies—can be harmful for the four-legged loves of your life? ASPCA experts offer some tips to ensure a loving and safe day for all species this February 14:

- Please take caution with roses and other blooms containing thorns, which could prove harmful to pets if played with, bitten, stepped on or swallowed. Explains the ASPCA’s Dr. Louise Murray, Director of Medicine for the Bergh Memorial Animal Hospital, “It’s all too easy for pets to step on thorny stems that fall to the ground as a flower arrangement is being created. Be sure to keep your pets clear of your workspace, since they can develop serious infections from thorn punctures. Also, many varieties of lilies are highly toxic to cats, so if these are your Valentine’s flower of choice, make sure your cats can’t get near them.”

- In any form ranging from one-ounce baking squares to hand-dipped truffles, chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, both methylxanthines that can cause stimulation of the central nervous system, an increase in heart rate and tremors. Clinical signs—vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, hyperactivity, and increased thirst, urination and heart rate—can be seen with the ingestion of as little as two ounces of baking chocolate by a 10-pound dog.

- It’s very tempting to give your sweetheart a new puppy or kitten for Valentine’s Day—they are the ultimate in cute and cuddly! But please keep in mind that bringing a new companion into the home is a big decision. We suggest presenting your loved one with a gift certificate to adopt from your local shelter. Big Apple residents, be sure to check out the Gift-A-Pet program at our ASPCA adoption facilities.

Click Here for the complete ASPCA Guide to a Pet-Friendly Valentine’s Day.

Pet Safety, Night Walking

There are many new products on the market to help keep your pet safe. One of the more ingenious ones is also so simple, you will wonder why you didn't think of it! It is called the Pet Blinker, and it is a devise that simply clips to your pets collar. Using Ultra Brite LEDs, the Pet Blinker will flash brightly, allowing your pet to be seen for quite a distance. This is great fo taking your pet for evening walks. This will also be very helpful for locating your pet in the dark, as well. I don't know about you, but in the winter time, my back door frosts up when I let our Miniature Dachshund out in the morning, and I have a hard time seeing him. But not with the Pet Blinker! I not only can see where he is, I can see where he was, so that I can pick up after him when I get dressed.

For this, and other safety related pet products, go to All for PETZ