Sunday, August 22, 2010

Got a new dog?

Just neuteredImage by kalavinka via FlickrWell, you probably know what I'm going to say first:  get health insurance for your new dogs ASAP, since their health needs don't end with shots and spaying.  Next, you might want to check out DogChannel's New Dog page, which is organized into categories that are actually relevant and helpful, unlike some other sites I could mention.  Additionally, they have downloads for new dog owners, like a shopping list (helpful, since you're going to want to buy everything you see, and you might miss a few important necessities), plus an "ask an expert" feature where you can get advice from a vet, a trainer, a groomer, etc.

I zeroed in on the Guide to Feeding Your Pets download, since I had so many different -- and difficult -- experiences while I was dealing with Tony's diabetes and his later bout with lymphoma.  It has material on food recalls, people food that is toxic for pets, the wet vs. dry debate, raw diets, and so on.  Overall, it's a good basic discussion of the topic, but I was disappointed that they didn't warn about the use of sweeteners (including HFCS) in the semi-moist foods.  I remain convinced that this was what led to Tony's weight gain and his subsequent diabetes.
In any event, here are a few interesting articles:

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