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| A PetPartners, Inc. Publication Q4-2007 |
If a Natural Disaster strikes, how will your pet fare?
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Dear Reader:
Our theme in this issue is emergency preparedness -- whether for a natural disaster or an unexpected accident. Since the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, federal, state and local efforts have been offering more resources for pet owners during various crises. We've also included tips on avoiding accidental poisoning as well as ways to help protect your dog during the upcoming holiday season. Be safe -- not sorry -- and take the time to evaluate potential risks and preventive measures and to stock supplies for your beloved pet in any threatening situation. |
Poisoning Accidents – Are You Prepared? |
Living with Canine Epilepsy |
Don’t Let Holiday Festivities Harm Your Dog |
6 More Heart-Tugging Tales from Our Readers |
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If a Natural Disaster strikes, How Will Your Pet Fare? Have You Planned Ahead? |
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Two years after the devastating effects of Hurricane Katrina, progress is being made on many fronts to improve the nation’s capabilities to cope with natural disasters. In its mission as ‘the Dog’s Champion’ and in its role with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the American Kennel Club is assisting many state and local initiatives, to become more prepared to manage animal issues that arise when disaster strikes. Here is some useful information to help you prepare for natural disasters, now that we are once again in ‘Hurricane Season.’
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Poisoning Accidents – Are You Prepared? |
Canines are curious creatures by nature. Because of their tendency to consume what they see in front of them, dogs are accidentally poisoned each year -- sometimes with fatal results. Even veterinary prescriptions and topical treatments can potentially poison a dog if they are not used properly. Common foods, such as chocolate, onions, coffee grounds and bread dough can be fatal to dogs when ingested. Our homes, garages and gardens contain many chemical items, common household plants and landscaping items that can also be toxic to our pets.
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Living with Canine Epilepsy |
Epilepsy is one of the most common neurologic diseases in dogs, but no one knows for certain what causes it or how common it is. It’s more than a single condition, comprising general categories of seizures. Epilepsy is unpredictable -- some pets appear to have seizures very regularly, while in others, the seizures appear to be triggered by specific events. There is no simple test for epilepsy. If it is suspected, veterinarians use a variety of diagnostic screening tests to rule out other problems first (such as glucose intolerance, thyroid function, infections, toxins and tumors) before arriving at a diagnosis. Having the AKC Pet Healthcare Plan can provide valuable financial support for costly diagnostic testing by a veterinarian.
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Don’t Let Holiday Festivities Harm Your Dog |
The upcoming holidays can pose special health dangers for our four-legged friends. Each year, thousands of pets become seriously injured or ill during the holiday season while their owners are busy with shopping, baking and entertaining. Pets can become very ill from a variety of common holiday meal items, including table butter, meat and candy.
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6 More Heart-Tugging Tales from Our Readers |
Recently we received some wonderful tales of how dogs are helping people in different ways – this time, in detecting acute medical problems like epileptic seizures and diabetic shock. These dogs acted in time to make a difference, save lives, or provide much needed assistance for the disabled. We hope that you enjoy these inspiring real life stories below. They left us with an appreciation of amazing canine sensory powers, and how humans once again can benefit hugely from canine heroes of help and hope.
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American Kennel Club, AKC and the AKC logo are trademarks of The American Kennel Club, Inc. The AKC Pet Healthcare Plan name is licensed to PetPartners, Inc for its exclusive use by the American Kennel Club. Coverage is offered by PetPartners Inc. and is underwritten by Markel Insurance Company, an A.M. Best A Rated Company. |
