Showing posts with label Pet Health. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Pet Health. Show all posts

Friday, November 16, 2007

What is HelpMeFindMYPET.com
Each year thousands of pets are separated from their families. Each year, thousands are found by good people who attempt to find their owners. More often than not, these pets will never find their way back. Why not? Most people are not informed or prepared to deal with a lost pet. They will typically keep an animal for less than a day before dropping it off at the nearest shelter.
I.D. tattooing and micro-chipping have helped significantly. Pet I.D. tags are also helpful but many people are hesitant to approach a strange animal.
Helpmefindmypet.com was conceived as a way to take a proactive approach to locating and returning lost pets. Imagine a scenario in which hundreds, perhaps thousands, of local pet owners were alerted the moment you lost your pet.
Our Mission
To help find lost pets by creating local communities of pet owners and pet professionals who will come to the aid of any member in need.
To provide much needed resources to animal shelters, foster groups, and animal rescue organizations.
To provide the necessary technology, education, and support to identify and return lost pets to their families.
History
Helpmefindmypet.com was conceived after one of the founders lost his own pet at the tender age of 12. This German Shepherd mix was purchased using the money from his first job, then running away never to return. After spending 15 plus years in and around the pet industry, it was time to do something about finding lost pets.
Each year millions of pets are separated from their families. Last year just over 6 million dogs and cats were separated from their homes. Unfortunately, less than 2% of cats and less than 15% of dogs are returned to their homes. Most people are not informed about lost pets or prepared to deal with a lost pet.
With all the technological advancements in the past couple of decades, we are faced with the same approach to finding lost pets. Advice that is given out today is the same as the advice given in the late 80’s including, post posters, notify your local shelters/rescues and flag your microchip number as missing in the appropriate database.
Fortunately for everyone that owns a pet, this is not the case anymore. The fact is, people find pets. The more people looking, the better the chances are of finding that lost pet. HelpmefindMYPET was conceived as a way to take a proactive approach to locating and returning lost pets. The moment you lose your pet thousands of local pet professionals, owners, and lovers are alerted.

Saturday, November 10, 2007

Potential Holiday Hazards
Pet accidents increase dramatically during the holidays. I don't want to spoil your fun with these cautions, but I really would like to help keep your holidays full of joy and safe.

  • With having guest entering and leaving your home please make sure that you protect your pet with resources like www.helpmefindmypet.com, the international Lost Pet Alert System, if your pet becomes lost it sends a Alert in up to fifty miles. The alert is sent to Shelters, Rescues, Municipalities, Veterinarians, Kennels, and members.). Make sure your pet has their Microchip information updated, and always have a visual I.D Tag on your pets collar.

  • Prevent exposure to electrical wires, which could cause dangerous burns or electrocution. Conceal them or use pet-proof covers. Otherwise, your pet may mistake them for a chew toy.

  • Prevent access to holiday plants. Never allow your pet unsupervised access to poinsettia, holly (leaves and berries), mistletoe, or other plants commonly used to decorate during the holidays.

  • A decorated tree poses many hazards. Tinsel, garland, flocking, and artificial snow can be dangerous. The tree may also be coated with potentially harmful fire retardant, fertilizer, or insecticide. Larger decorating lights can become hot and cause burns. Low hanging lights and ornaments can be especially attracting.

  • Many of the foods we set out during the holidays can be toxic to pets, including chocolate (bakers, semi sweet, milk, dark), sugary cookies, salty snacks, and other favorites left out for nibbling and, of course, alcoholic drinks.

  • Perfumes, potpourri, adhesives, glues, aerosol sprays, and cleaning products can all be toxic.

  • Open flames are dangerous. Stoves, candles, and fireplaces always pose a serious threat.

  • Tape, ribbons, and the inks and metals used in some gift wraps could cause problems if eaten.

  • Visitors, especially children, may not understand how to care for and handle your small pet. It is best to lay some ground rules such as who can and cannot take the pet out; what – if anything – they can feed it and how often; and when the pet should be allowed to sleep undisturbed.

  • Discourage guests from bringing their own dog or other pet into your home. If they do, understand that your pet and theirs are sure to be anxious. Keep them separated and do not relax your vigilance.

If you follow some of these helpful tips you and your pet will have a stress free and joyful holiday season. If any one has any other suggestions or stories please send me a comment or email. The best way to learn about protecting your pets is from the experiences and stories of others. I look forward to hearing about everyone's stories and tips for a safer holiday.