Christmas is just around the corner, and you may already be making your gift list. Don’t forget your pet! Purchase affordable toys, gear and accessories for your cat or dog on the Web. Many pet manufacturers (such as planetdog.com) and mail-order catalogs (like inthecompanyofdogs.com) offer sale sections on last year’s products or overstocked or hard-to-sell items. If you visit a larger pet store like petco.com, type “sale” in the search feature to find marked-down items. (Remember to always take shipping charges into consideration; do a Google search for a free shipping coupon code before you buy.)

Posted by Charlotte Reed, pet expert and author of The Miss Fido Manners Complete Book of Dog Etiquette

SEE ALSO:
Make your own pet toys
10 little known pet health hazards
Surprising ways to save on healthcare

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Puppies, smaller dogs and senior pooches don’t always want to go outside to use the bathroom in cold weather—but you don’t want your canine relieving itself inside on the floor or carpet! Instead of purchasing scented pee pads or an expensive elimination unit, make a portable, indoor potty area for your dog. Place newspaper on a large sheet pan (around 18″ X 26″ X 1″), which you can purchase inexpensively at a discount kitchen supply store. Put the potty area in a place your dog can easily reach that is away from his food and water, possibly in a bathroom or the kitchen. Every day, replace the newspaper and wipe the tray with a wet paper towel and a mild dishwashing detergent. At least once a month, disinfectant the tray with hot water and bleach.

Posted by Charlotte Reed, pet expert and author of The Miss Fido Manners Complete Book of Dog Etiquette

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According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, 44 percent of dogs and 57 percent of cats in the United States are either overweight or obese. As a result, pets are in real danger of developing serious and costly diseases, such as diabetes, arthritis and other avoidable conditions. To help shed some pet pounds and make that bag of dog food last longer, cut down on the amount of food you put in your pet’s bowl. First, record his pre-diet weight. Over a two-week period, reduce the amount you normally feed him by one-fourth. Also, break medium-sized or larger biscuits into two so that your pet has lower calorie treats for today and tomorrow. After two weeks, weight your pet. If he has lost even a little weight, you’re on the right track.

Posted by Charlotte Reed, pet expert and author of The Miss Fido Manners Complete Book of Dog Etiquette

Posted by Emily Hendricks Turnier, Associate Editor

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Are famous dog breeds right for you (and your wallet)?

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Need a break? Check out these hilarious Web sites for a quick, free mood boost.

Icanhascheezburger.com: Funny pictures of cats accompanied by silly captions (there’s also a dog version at ihasahotdog.com)

Cutethingsfallingasleep.org: The name says it all—adorable videos of snoozing penguins, sheep, cats, dogs and squirrels

Stuffonmycat.com and Stuffonmymutt.com: You’ll crack up at these pictures of cats and dogs in humorous situations and amusing get-ups

Cuteoverload.com: Lovable animals of all kinds such as hamsters, bunnies and cuddling cats and dogs

Dailysquee.com: Pretty pictures of baby animals such as monkeys, chicks, puppies and turtles

Posted by Emily Hendricks Turnier, Associate Editor

SEE ALSO:
Meet 10 adorable dogs
Check out 7 surprising ways to save on pet care
What’s the best pest advice you’ve ever received?
Are famous dog breeds right for you (and your wallet)?

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Do you love when your cat or dog curls up with you on the couch, but hate the hair she leaves behind? Here’s a simple, low-cost solution: Watch for home sales at department stores, and buy a few inexpensive placemats that match your furniture and décor. Place the mats on your cat or dog’s favorite place to sit (my cat’s most-loved spot: the couch arms). Pet hair and dirt will end up on the placemat, not your couch. (Just throw the mat in the washer when it gets grimy.)

Source: Charlotte Reed, pet expert and author of The Miss Fido Manners Complete Book of Dog Etiquette

Posted by Emily Hendricks Turnier, Associate Editor

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Do you feed your cat Premium Edge Finicky Adult food or Premium Edge Hairball food from Diamond Pet Foods? If so, return the package to the place of purchase—according to the ASPCA, these foods are being recalled because they lack thiamine, a vitamin that cats can’t make on their own and must get from food.

So far, there have been 14 confirmed cases of thiamine deficiency. If your pet has eaten this food, schedule an appointment with your vet—thiamine deficiency can cause neurological problems such as loss of balance and even deadly seizures, says the ASPCA. (Other signs of the deficiency include lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, mental dullness, dilated pupils, increased respiratory rate and low body temperature.) If given anti-seizure medication and thiamine supplementation promptly, your cat should recover.

Posted by Emily Hendricks Turnier, Associate Editor

See also:

Meet 10 adorable dogs

Make your own pet toys

10 little known pet health hazards

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24 days until Halloween!

Make sure the holiday is fun—not frightening—for your cat or dog with these tips from the ASPCA:

Potential danger #1: Treats:
-Ingesting chocolate is dangerous for dogs and cats—it can cause vomiting, diarrhea, seizures and increased heart rate.
-The artificial sweetener xylitol (commonly found in sugar-free candy) can cause a drop in blood sugar in dogs, leading to depression, lack of coordination, seizures or even liver failure.
-Throw away all candy wrappers: ingesting foil or cellophane packaging can cause choking or intestinal blockage in pets.
-If you think your pet has eaten something dangerous, call your vet immediately.

Potential danger #2: Jack-o-lanterns:
Watch pets closely if you put a candle in your carved pumpkin. Pets can easily knock the jack-o-lantern over and accidentally start a fire, or become curious and get burned by flames.

Potential danger #3: Trick-or-treaters:
The doorbell rings every few minutes and groups of giggling kids are at your door—all of the commotion is enough to stress out even the mellowest pet. Keep your cat or dog in a room (stocked with food, water, toys and a litter box, if you have a cat) away from the front door on Halloween night.

Potential danger #4: Pet costumes:
We love to see doggies dressed up, but be sure your pet doesn’t mind masquerading as a caveman, pirate or pumpkin. Otherwise, your pet could become super stressed. If you do play dress up, make sure that the costume fits properly and doesn’t restrict your pet’s ability to move or breathe. Also be sure there are no strings or pieces on the costume that could come off and become a choking hazard.

Posted by Emily Hendricks Turnier, Associate Editor

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You know that children shouldn’t be left in a car alone, but did you know that this can be deadly for pets, too? If your dog or cat is your constant companion, consider using Emma’s Inspirations car window decals for pets. The decals, which say “Closed Cars Don’t Breathe, Check Your Seats Before You Leave,” are a visual reminder when you get out of the car. (The company started with stickers that remind parents to take their children out of the car; the inventors accidentally left their baby in a vehicle for almost 45 minutes. Fortunately their daughter, Emma, survived.) A package of six decals costs $10 (this price includes shipping; order at emmasinspirations.com) and could save you a lot of grief, heartache and money at the veterinarian.

Posted by Emily Hendricks Turnier, Associate Editor

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Meet 10 adorable dogs

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Thinking of adopting an animal? Visit theshelterpetproject.org, which features pet care information and a Pet Personals section, where you’ll answer questions like “Have you ever had a furry one in the family?” or “On a scale of 1-10, how patient are you?” The site then displays nearby cats or dogs that match your personality and lifestyle. You can also send friends and family a virtual pet via an Adopt-A-Gram. The e-message will also show the recipient shelter pets available in their area.

Posted by Emily Hendricks Turnier, Associate Editor

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Ask a vet about your cat

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Pets offer many rewards, but the furry creatures take their toll on the furniture. Sure Fit has come up with a new solution to protect your sofa from pet hair and other messes. These large throws are attractive, machine washable, and affordable —less than $50! That’s a small price to pay to protect the investment you made in your couch. Now you don’t need to worry when your best friend jumps up and sits beside you to enjoy your favorite TV show.

Posted by Dwyer Paulsen, Associate Style Editor

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Summer is coming to an end, but in most parts of the country it’s still warm out. This means that you and your kids are probably continuing to enjoy the great outdoors. While you’re savoring the last bits of the season, it’s important to keep dog bite prevention in mind—4.5 million Americans suffer dog bites each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If you’re a dog owner, remember that even friendly, easygoing pups may attack if provoked, says the ASPCA. The following tips from these two organizations should reduce the risk that your dog will bite:

-Spay or neuter your dog. This helps prevent aggression.

-Socialize your dog by exposing it to new and different people, places and things. This will help it be less frightened in unfamiliar or potentially upsetting situations. Fearful dogs are more likely to bite.

-Don’t play aggressively (such as wrestling) with your pup.

-Take your dog to obedience classes (start these as early as possible). Training will help your dog learn what you expect of her.

-Don’t keep your dog tied up outside—pups kept outdoors are nearly three times more likely to bite because they become frustrated and may feel defenseless. Your dog will be much happier if it lives in your home as part of the family.

-Get help from your vet or an animal trainer right away if your dog becomes aggressive.

To learn what to do when you encounter an unfamiliar or threatening dog, read the CDC’s Dog Bite fact sheet.

Posted by Associate Editor, Emily Hendricks Turnier

See also:

10 little known pet hazards

Make your own pet toys

Pick a great family dog

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Do you spend a lot of cash on your dog or cat’s medications?

Go to petmedicationcard.com to sign up for and print your free pet prescription discount card. You’ll get a discount on human medications that vets prescribe for pets, such as anti-anxiety pills, blood thinners and pain relievers. The amount you’ll save varies by the medication and pharmacy, but may be as much as 75 percent off retail prices.

Discounts are available at more than 56,000 pharmacies, such as Walgreens, CVS, Target and Safeway. Just call your local drug store or bring your card in and ask how much you can save with it.

Posted by Emily Hendricks Turnier, Associate Editor

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7 surprising ways to save on pet care

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Unlike the swine flu, canine influenza can’t be transmitted to humans. But the virus, which was discovered in 2004, can potentially be deadly for your dog. Here’s what you need to know (including information about a new vaccine!):

How dogs get canine flu:
By coming in contact with other dogs that have the virus. So if you go to the dog park, the groomer’s or the kennel, for example, your pup may be at risk.

The symptoms:
If infected with canine flu, 80 percent of dogs will become ill, while 20 percent will stay healthy. Sick dogs may have severe or prolonged coughing, nasal discharge, fever, decreased appetite and lethargy. If your pup shows these signs, take it to the vet to get tested for the virus. Some dogs will become seriously ill and require hospitalization; some may even die from a secondary medical condition, like pneumonia.

The treatment:
There is currently no medication approved to cure canine flu—vets just let it run its course (symptoms usually stop within a month) and work to prevent and treat complications.

How to minimize the risk your dog will catch it:
A canine influenza vaccine was just approved in May, so if your dog is around other dogs often, talk to your vet about getting the shot. It’s also important to keep your dog in good health by taking it to the vet regularly and having it vaccinated for other diseases—that way, your pet can better deal with the virus should he contract it.

Source: Leah A. Cohn, DVM, PhD, professor of veterinary internal medicine at the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine and vice president of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine
Posted by Emily Hendricks Turnier, Associate Editor

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* If your hair could use a good repair session, grab a free sample of the new Dove Heat Defense Therapy or Intense Damage Therapy now!

*Freebies4mom.blogspost.com has a deliciously money-saving scoop: Every Friday, Mars is dishing out 250,000 coupons for a free chocolate bar. Claim yours! Click here for details.

* Calling all cat owners! Treat your pets to a free sample of Fancy Feast Appetizers, like White Meat Chicken & Shredded Beef, or White Meat Chicken and Flaked Tuna.

* Bargain Briana’s weekly lineup of freebies includes everything from a Beech-Nut Starter Kit to a free Hallmark card. Check it out here!

* Become a Facebook fan of Clarins to receive a free sample of their new Multi-Active Cream. Thanks for the tip, commonsensewithmoney.com!

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The news reports about Hurricane Bill (http://www.time.com/time/nation/article/0,8599,1918204,00.html) reminded us that it’s hurricane season, which in turn got us thinking about disaster preparedness. It’s a great idea to have an emergency plan your family, but it’s important to also include your pets in your preparations. Follow these tips from the ASPCA for safeguarding your dog or cat during a crisis:

* Post a rescue alert sticker in a window. The sticker will let rescue workers know that pets are inside your home. Be sure it lists how many and what kinds of pets you have and your vet’s name and phone number. To get a free decal, go to aspca.org and search for “rescue sticker.”

* Decide where your pets will go if you’re evacuated. Not all disaster shelters accept pets, so arrange for a safe haven ahead of time.

Here’s how to find one:

• Ask your vet for advice and a list of boarding kennels and facilities that can house your pet during a crisis.
• Call your local animal shelter and ask if they provide emergency shelter.
• Decide on a friend or relative outside your area who will temporarily take your pet in the event of an evacuation. Be sure it’s someone you trust to care for your animal and that they’re comfortable with the responsibility.

* Put together a pet emergency kit. Consider including these items:

• Pet first-aid kit (ask your vet what to include)
• 3 to 7 days’ worth of dry or canned pop-top food (be sure to refresh this supply so food doesn’t go bad)
• For cats: Litter; aluminum roasting pans (to use as disposable litter trays)
• Garbage bags
• Feeding dishes
• Harness and leash
• Photocopies of medical records and a two-week supply of pet medications
• A week’s supply of bottled water
• A sturdy crate for each pet (include on the carrier: your pet’s name, your name and contact information and the name and phone number of a friend or relative who can care for your pet when you can’t be reached)
• Blanket
• Recent photos of your pet (in case you become separated)
• Toys (for cats and dogs)

* Make sure pets wear ID tags at all times. Your pet’s tag should list its name, your name and phone number and any serious medical conditions. Consider having your pets microchipped, which is a more permanent form of identification.

For more advice, go to aspca.org/pet-care/disaster-preparedness.

SEE ALSO:
Make you own pet toys
Travel safely with your pet
Is Oprah’s dog right for you?

Posted by Emily Hendricks Turnier, Associate Editor

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My husband and I are taking care of 2-month-old foster kittens for a shelter, and the smallest kitty, Kate, is skittish and afraid of people. A cat-loving coworker gave me a great, inexpensive tip to solve this issue: Make Kitty a hiding spot. She advised me to fold a piece of cardboard in half and make a “tent” so that Kate has a place to retreat when she’s feeling scared. I used the bottom of the box that their cans of food came in (the cardboard piece was about 15 inches wide). Now Kate can go into her own little spot and feel comforted and protected.

SEE ALSO:
Keep pets safe on a road trip
Make your own pet toys
Get a discount on pet care

Posted by Emily Hendricks Turnier, Associate Editor

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Heading out for summer vacation with your pet? Here are a few tips for a smooth ride:

*  Prevent illness. If you’re worried your pet might suffer motion sickness, see your vet before you leave and ask for a prescription to treat the condition. When you hit the road, cover the pet’s carrier with a towel so it won’t see scenery whizzing by, making it dizzy. It’s also a good idea to avoid feeding your pet too much during the car ride—this should stave off stomach upset. Give your cat or dog a light meal two or three hours before you leave, advises the Humane Society of the United States.

*  Take frequent bathroom breaks. Be sure pups are leashed at gas stations or rest stops so they don’t get lost. Put a small tray of litter in your cat’s carrier but also bring a regular-sized litterbox. Many cats won’t go in a small tray if they’re stressed, and “holding it” can cause urinary tract infections. Let them go in the bigger box during stops and hotel stays. Make reservations at pet-friendly hotels ahead of time; locate them at petswelcome.com. Get a room with a door that opens into an inside corridor, not outdoors. If your animal gets loose, you’re more likely to find him indoors than out.

Source: Sue Farinato, program assistant for companion animals at the Humane Society of the United States

SEE ALSO:
DIY: Make your own pet toys
Safeguard your pet this summer
Are famous dog breeds right for your wallet?
Make your pet comfortable with a sitter

Posted by Emily Hendricks Turnier, Associate Editor

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Are you going on vacation this summer and leaving your cat or dog at home with a pet sitter? Here are a few ways to help your animal warm up to its caretaker—and one tip for putting your mind at ease while you’re away:

•  If you’re searching for a sitter, invite candidates over to be sure they get along with your pet. Also, request references from past clients. If you already have a caretaker, ask her to stop by before you leave to get reacquainted with your dog or cat.

•  Have your sitter give you a piece of her clothing, such as a T-shirt or scarf. Leave it around your pet for a few days so it will recognize her smell and be more relaxed with her.

•  Write the caretaker a detailed note that includes your vet’s address and phone number; directions for administering medications your pet needs’ and what times to come over so that your pet stays on as normal of a schedule as possible.

Source: Sue Farinato, program assistant for companion animals at the Humane Society of the United States

SEE ALSO:
Get a discount on pet care
Save money on cat toys
Ask a vet about your cat
Travel safely with your pet

Posted by Emily Hendricks Turnier, Associate Editor

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Need pet supplies? Save money with these coupon codes and sales on items for your furry friend, courtesy of currentcodes.com:

•    Dogkennels.com – $10 off your purchase of $75 or more (use code SW-8937); free shipping on orders over $50 (code QH-8573)
•    Cattoys.com – free shipping on orders over $50
•    Entirelypets.com – free regular Bonies dog treat with any order (use code FREEBONIES3); free small Bonies with any order (use code FREEBONIES2)
•    Fetchdog.com - $10 off your purchase of $50 or more (with code JBB1221; expires 12/31/09)
•    Nationalpetpharmacy.com – free shipping on all Advantage and Frontline flea and tick products (no code needed); $5 off when you spend $40 or more (with code SAVE540; expires 12/31/09)
•    Ohmydogsupplies.com – free shipping on all dog beds; buy 3, get one free on all dog treats
•    Orvis.com - sale on many pet items (click on “Super Pet Sale” on the site)
•    Petstreetmall.com - free shipping on orders of $50 or more
•    Petcarerx.com – free shipping on orders of $35 or more
•    Petfooddirect.com – $5 off $30 or more (use code PER5OFF; expires 12/31/09); 5 percent off any order (with code PER5PCT; expires 12/31/09); 20 percent off all pet toys  (use code PERTOYS; expires 9/30/09)

SEE ALSO:
Save money on cat toys
Ask a vet about your cat
Travel safely with your pet
Pick a great family dog

Posted by Emily Hendricks Turnier, Associate Editor

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In Issue 8 of ALL YOU magazine (on sale July 24!), we feature make-at-home pet toy ideas. Here are a few playthings you can create for Kitty out of objects you already have around the house:

Wrestle sausage: Stuff a plastic grocery bag and a tablespoon of organic catnip into an old sock. Tie a shoelace about 2 inches from the sock’s open end. Dangle it in front of the cat so your pet can wrestle with it. The cat will love the crackling noise the bag makes.

Ring toss: Flatten an empty paper-towel roll and cut as many ¼-inch rings out of it as you can. Throw them above the cat’s head one at a time to entice your pet to leap.

Want more toy ideas? Save 25 percent off the book Make Your Own Cat Toys by Holly Tse. To order, click here and enter coupon code SNHPZVXS.

SEE ALSO:
Ask a vet about your cat
Travel safely with your pet
Pick a great family dog

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