So many struggling families had to give up their pets due to the economy and many shelters are still caring for and trying to get these same pets adopted. Taking a dog or cat into your home can be a joyous occasion, so what better time to adopt than during the holiday? Below are the top five reasons why you should add a cuddly fur baby to your family this season.

1. Dogs and cats from shelters often already have their initial vaccinations and preliminary care. Usually, the main expenses you have to worry about is paying for the adoption fee, food and the spaying/neutering. An added plus is that some shelters are offering discounted spaying/neutering services, so you will walk away less broke than you think and will still have money for odds and ends (cat litter, cat litter box, leashes, collar, etc.). Because shelters are dedicated to finding long-term homes for these animals, you might be able to catch more deals like a complimentary bag of food.
2. Pets can bring joy and unconditional love to the entire family. If you’re trying to spend less this year, why not invest in one present and one present only? As long as everyone is willing to put forth the effort, a pet can teach your family about responsibility and compassion.
3. You can find a pet that matches your lifestyle and personality. A dog might not be right for you if you’re not going to be home enough to take it outside and walk it, but a cat is independent and more self-sufficient.
4. It’s a given that there will be challenges to overcome when you get your new pet home, but what about all of the adventures that are ahead? Plus, when no one else is around or there to provide comfort, you can always count on your pet to be there and listen.
5. The holiday season is about companionship and helping those in need, so why not do your part and save a life. Remember, not all shelters are no-kill. Preventing one animal’s life from being sacrificed counts, and you can spend the next 10 to 15 years getting to know this special and intelligent creature.

Over the next few weeks, take time to visit local animal shelters as well as holiday pet adoption events. Even if you’re unable to take in another pet, you can at least spread the word and try to help these deserving animals in other ways.

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Earlier this year, H1N1 was targeting humans, but now the flu is affecting other species too, which includes our pets. To date, two felines from Oregon and one ferret from either Nebraska or Oregon have died from H1N1. However, there have been even more animals including cats, turkeys, pigs and a cheetah that have tested positive for this flu. So far dogs and birds have not yet been infected. With these H1N1 pet cases now in the states, it’s important to take precautionary sanitation measures to prevent the spread of the virus.

Respiratory colds are common during the dry, winter months, and it’s important to stay on top of your health and your pet’s well-being too. Since H1N1 can be spread from a human to an animal, it’s best to keep contact with your pet limited when you have a cold. If you’re pet does contract this particular flu virus, it’s possible for them to recover, but it’s wise to take extra care when you’re sanitizing your home. You can never be sure whether your pet’s immune system is already compromised.

Using a steam cleaning mop can kill the germs off of your floors, and it’s also beneficial to keep a stock of Lysol products, which claim to kill the H1N1 virus, in your cleaning product arsenal. Or you can create a natural cleaning mixture of water and an anti-microbial or anti-virus essential oils such as Tea Tree or Cinnamon oil. Adding 10 to 20 drops of one of these essential oils in a spray bottle full of water makes for an eco-friendly and efficient all-purpose household cleanser.

Other ways to protect your pets include common sense behavior such as washing your hands often and covering your mouth when you sneeze or cough. It’s wise to contact your veterinarian if your pet exhibits any of the following symptoms: loss of appetite, dehydration, fatigue, coughing, congested lungs, or continuous discharge from the nose and eyes. Unfortunately, an H1N1 vaccine for pets doesn’t exist, so it’s best to limit your contact with your pets when you get sick and also keep your pets away from other sick animals.

Keeping your home sanitized and following these tips can help reduce the chances of your pet becoming ill. It’s beneficial to be as cautious as you can, because veterinarians are still unsure of how contagious H1N1 is when it comes to pets.

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Do you deck your halls and your pets with holiday cheer? According to the Bayshore Courier News, 62 percent of American households have one or multiple pets, so it’s no surprise that pets are a part of the celebration too. If you’re planning on including your pet in the holiday travel or home parties, follow the tips from the American Humane Association to keep your pet safe and relaxed this season.

• Pet owners can never be reminded enough to keep ID tags on their pets and have them microchipped. It’s also wise to put an extra ID tag on their collar that lists the address and phone number for where you will be staying for the holiday.
• Travel with your pet in its crate. A couple weeks before the trip, put them in the crate while you’re at home and then start putting them in the crate before you leave the house. This will help them become acclimated again to their safe spot, and it will help reduce some of their stress.
• Pack a separate bag that contains all of the supplies your pet needs. This includes food, water, medication, toys, leashes, extra collar, blanket, etc. It’s best if you try to keep your pet on the same feeding schedule while you’re away too.
• Visit the veterinarian to ensure that your pet is caught up on its shots. You can also inquire about a sedative for the trip. However, there are natural options such as Bach’s Pet Remedy, which is a mixture of flower essences that can be put in your pet’s water or on a treat.
• Assess the difference between taking your pet along and boarding it. If you’re pet is too large to travel next to you on the plane, you might want to rethink the pros and cons with relation to your pet’s health and well-being.
• Plan a trip to the groomer so your pet will be fresh, clean and shed free (to some extent, anyway). If your pet enjoys dressing up, treat them to a new outfit or holiday bandanna. Make sure that the groomer will have time to trim your pet’s nails (no guests will enjoy scratches or snags in their clothes), and if you have a dog, it’s a good idea to have their anal glands expressed.

Who knew it takes so much effort to pamper and primp your pet for holiday guests and traveling?

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Christmas, Kwanzaa and New Year’s is right around the corner, but even if you’re not into the holiday spirit, there are plenty of pet-related events going on this December.

General Pet Events

Phoenix Canine Classic – Dec. 12
Scottsdale, AZ

This event will feature a dog-walk and pet festival. You and your pet can walk or run the five-kilometer or one mile walk with friends as well as local pet organizations. There will be over 70 exhibitors at the festival, and the first 200 participants at the Vaccination Station will get free microchips!

Doggy Talent Show – Dec. 13
Lansing, IL

Enter your dog in this talent show, and he/she might be awarded with the Best Trick, Best Costume, Funniest Trick, Best Smile, Best Doggy Dance, Longest Ears, Best Wag, Owner/Dog Look-a-Like or Loudest Bark. There is a $5 donation at the door, and it’s $2 for each category you enter your dog in.

Priceless Pet Rescue Fundraiser – Dec. 15
Chino Hills, CA

Non-profit, no-kill shelters need all of the help they can get, so why not support the Priceless Pet Rescue? Visit Johnny Rockets (hamburger restaurant) in Chino Hills and tell them you’re there for the pet rescue fundraiser when you make a purchase, and they will donate 15% of their sales to the organization.

Holiday Pet Events

2nd Annual Home for the Holidays Event – Dec. 12
Newington, CT

This adoption event will help pets find homes for the holiday. Pictures for children and pets with Santa will also be offered, and you can even sponsor a pet on the ornament tree. If you still need to buy holiday gifts, you might find the perfect pet-friendly presents here.

Chi Hope Chest Holiday Festival – Dec. 12
Tucker, GA

At this event, you can update your dog’s wardrobe and treat him/her to homemade treats too. You can also find jewelry, holiday ornaments and home décor here too. Don’t miss out on the doggie play park and pictures with Santa.

A Home for the Holidays Super Adoption – Dec. 19
Loganville, GA

The local Petsmart will be hosting a super adoption event. If you’re looking for an addition to your current pet family, it shouldn’t be hard to find a complimentary companion among the 100 dogs, cats, puppies and kittens.

2nd Annual Block Party with Santa – Dec. 17
Tampa, FL

This evening block party will include a wine tasting, appetizers, drink specials, live music and photos with Santa. Your $5 donation will give you a chance at winning great prizes too. If you’re looking to find a furry friend for your buddy, this is a great way to socialize.

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Now that the season is transitioning into winter, you need to be aware of different hazards that could potentially pose a risk to your pet. Pets of any age need to be supervised more in the colder weather, so here are some tips to help you keep tabs on your animal.

Yes, dogs and cats have fur, but it doesn’t make them impervious to colds or health conditions. If your pet is wet and outside in the winter weather for a long period of time, it’s possible for them to get hypothermia, which includes symptoms such as shivering, low temperature and confusion. Because the weather can be so unpredictable during this time, it’s best to keep your pet indoors as much as possible. This way they have a warm shelter as well as access to food and water.

If you have an outdoor cat, provide them with a warm cat house that they can go to for shelter. It’s also wise to check under the hood of your car before starting it, because your feline friend or a neighbor’s cat might be seeking warmth and shelter there. Also, make sure to provide your outdoor pet with extra food and water, because they will burn more calories outside than they would inside.

You also need to keep your pet away from anti-freeze, road salt and other de-icing chemicals. Wiping off your pet with a towel every time it comes back inside is wise, because you don’t want your pet to ingest any residual chemicals on its fur or paws.

Taking care of your pet during the winter might require some extra effort on your part, but it’s well worth it. You can even make it fun by dressing your pet up in cute sweaters or coats and accessorizing with leashes and booties. If you might think pet clothing is more about fashion, it might surprise you that they can actually be functional too.

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