Family pets are an important part of a family, so just as parents want their kids to eat food that is healthy, they also want to know that their pet’s food is healthy too. Shelly Rubin, VMD and director emeritus of Blum Animal Hospital in Chicago, debunks common myths surrounding pets so we can be assured that our pets are getting the best care possible. Interestingly enough, Rubin had been Oprah’s dog veterinarian for over 15 years.
Myth #1 Table scraps are good for dogs.
Our pets need food that consists of protein, carbohydrates, and fat. Unfortunately, human food has many more ingredients in it that is not good for animals, such as salt and sugar. Table scraps are not necessarily good for dogs and may end up hurting them in the long run. They may LOVE them, but try to refrain from feeding them scraps.
Instead, choose natural dog food, such as the Holistic and Wellness Selectbrands, Organix, and Annameat. Additionally, it is recommended to feed your dog twice a day so that the food does not sit in the bowl and get old.
When it comes to dog treats, minimize the amount you give, as many dogs are already obese. Healthy dog treats that you can give are small apple slices, baby carrots, cauliflower, and even seedless watermelon.
Myth #2: Cats need milk.
Actually, cats do not need milk. They may enjoy it, but it can cause them harm because they do not have the innate ability to break down the lactose in milk products. If you feed your cat milk, it may get diarrhea or vomit. Give your cat plenty of water instead.
Myth #3: A warm nose means your dog is sick.
A dog could have a warm nose due to various reasons, but it does not mean it is sick. If you think your dog has a fever, place your hand on its head to feel for heat. A dog’s normal temperature is between 101 and 101.5 degrees, so take that into consideration when assessing for elevated temperature. Your dog may be sick if he/she is displaying symptoms such as no appetite, lethargy, diarrhea, or vomiting.
Myth #4: Cats always land on their feet.
Cats do not always land on their feet. Veterinarians will tell you that they have seen many cases in which cats have fallen out of windows and did not land on feet, but ended up badly hurt or dying. If your cat likes to lounge by the window, make sure that you have a screen or keep the window closed.
Myth #5: It's all right to kiss your dog.
Your dogs tongue has been in places that are probably not places you’d like to have your tongue, so it is a good idea to refrain from letting your dog lick your face all over. There have actually been cases of salmonella poisoning occurring to the recipient of a dog’s lick to the face.
Of course, this doesn’t stop many pet owners from enjoying “liquid love” from their dog, but it is advised that those with weak immune systems, such as those undergoing chemotherapy or living with HIV, should steer clear of a dog’s kiss.
To keep your dog’s mouth as clean as it can be, you can brush its teeth with toothpaste made for animals. Never brush your dog’s teeth with human toothpaste, as it can harm or even kill the animal. Golden retrievers and labs enjoy rope bones, which do help clean the teeth to a certain extent.
Myth #6: Everyone can afford a pet.
Owning a pet does cost a considerable amount of money if you purpose to adequately feed it and make sure it gets adequate care from a veterinarian. It costs money to get your pet its shots, spayed or neutered, and for medicine should it acquire an illness. Food alone can cost $40 to $100 a month depending on the size and type of pet you have. If you are struggling to make ends meet, it is probably not a good time to bring a pet into your life. Wait until you have extra funds to adequately care for you pet.
Myth #7: Flea collars are effective.
Flea collars are not effective. They only work right where the collar touches the fur. In fact, there are not that many flea collars sold anymore. If your pet has a flea problem, consider purchasing Frontline or Advantage flea products, as they certainly work to keep fleas to a minimum.
Myth #8: My pet stays indoors, so it doesn't need to go to the vet.
Your pet will benefit from you taking it to the veterinarian to get its shots, as the vaccines can help your pet stay free from various diseases, such as distemper and upper-respiratory infections. Humans can bring in germs and your animal may get outside on occasion, so at the very least, take your pet to get vaccinations.
Myth #9: Dogs eat grass because they like the way it tastes.
Some dogs do like to graze on grass periodically, such as German shepherds and labs, but for the most part if your dog is eating grass it means that they may have mild gastritis or esophageal reflux disease. If this continues to occur, you should take your dog to the vet for a check up, as it may need a change in diet.