Howl-o-ween and Pet Protection!

The following is an excerpt taken from Dr. Kim Smyth of Petplan's October 2014 newsletter which my veterinarian's office hands out to all of their clients. It is an article entitled, "Hair-Raising Hazards" where Dr. Smyth talks about keeping our pets protected during the holiday season ...

'While Halloween can be fanciful fun for adults and children, it can be doggone scary for our four-legged family. In fact, Petplan sees a 284% increase in claims filed for candy-related calamities during Halloween week! But chocolate isn't the only hazard haunting furry friends; raisins, wrappers and random "chew toys" also trouble tummies':

Fright Night for Furry Friends

When pets get their paws (and their jaws!) on the wrong thing, it can cause a real nightmare (on Elm Street or elsewhere). The three main threats are stomach upset, poisoning and intestinal blockages from noshing on non-edible items.

 Gastroenteritis is an inflammation of the stomach and small intestine, and its symptoms are typically vomiting and diarrhea. Sugary, high-fat candlies and cakes can cause a flare-up and should be kept well out of paws reach! Gastroenteritis often requires hospitalization and treatment with intravenous fluids and other medications.

Poisoning can occur when our furry friends feast on chocolate, raisons, sugar-free gum, macadamia nuts or even glow sticks used to light the night. Look for signs like drooling, foaming at the mouth, vomiting, lethargy, weakness/collapse, or seizures ~ and get your pet immediate medical attention if you suspect he or she is sick! 

Obstructions happen when a foreign object becomes lodged in an animal's stomach, intestines or bowels, often requiring surgical intervention to remove. Signs of trouble include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal tenderness or pain, straining to defecate, lethargy, and biting and/or growling when handled around the abdomen. Costumes, candy wrappers and plastic pumpkins are common culprits so be extra vigilant about looking out for your pet during the frenzy of all the festivites.

For more information, please check out www.GoPetplan.com/Oct2014-health-tip

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Bewtiching Biscuts

 

1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour

1 cup white flour

1/2 cup water + 1 tablespoon water

2 tablespoons dry milk

1/3 cup corn meal

1 teaspoon baking powder

2 teaspoons cinnamon

1/2 cup oats

3 tablespoons vegetable oil

1/2 cup canned pumpkin

Mix ingredients together to a thick consistency, then roll the dough out about a quarter-inch thick. Cut the dough into two-inch long strips (or use a fun cookie cutter) and arrange on a cookie sheet. Bake for one hour at 350 degrees F.