Tick identification is important...

Everyone is worried about Lyme Disease.  So how do I protect myself, my family -and my dog- from this terrible plague? 

Knowledge, Tick repellent, Tight clothing,  Inspections... 
But what if you've done all that, and you still find an engorged tick?  You need to be able to differentiate, or identify, between the different tick species to avoid unnecessary worry and unnecessary trips to the vet. 

The tick that primarily carries lyme disease is I. Scapularis, also called the Black-Legged Tick, or the Deer Tick. The deer tick is very very very tiny, approximately the size of a fleck of black pepper.  They are very nearly impossible to see on a dog, and can still be difficult to see even when engorged.

The common dog tick can range in size from very small, but clearly visible, to quite large.  Then when they're engorged, they blow up like a big greyish/greenish blob (green or grey color tick).

Remember Knowledge is the key, wishing your family and pets a safe and healthy summer.

Keeping Your Pet's Tornado -Safe,

 Before, During and After the Storm...

Tornadoes are among thee most terrifying and destructive natural phenomena – and they rarely give much warning. They are particularly scary for pets with all the wind and loud noise… Having an emergency plan for your entire family – including your pets,is critical in staying safe during a tornado or severe storm. Following the recent disaster that struck Joplin, Missouri, the experts at American Humane Association have put together a series of 10 tips to help before, during and after a tornado strikes:

Before a tornado:

·       Identify a tornado-safe area large enough for your entire family and pets (often a basement or the most interior room of the house on the bottom floor).

·       Practice getting the entire family to the tornado safe area quickly during calm weather.

·       Make your tornado-safe area pet-friendly by removing any dangerous items such as tools or toxic products.

·       Keep your family and pet-preparedness kits in your tornado-safe area or close by. Ensure that you have a crate for every animal.

·       Know your pet’s hiding places and how to quickly and safely extricate them. Eliminate any unsafe hiding areas from which it may be difficult to remove your animal in a hurry.

During a tornado:

·       If an evacuation is possible, take your pets with you. Make sure you take your pet preparedness kit and that your animals have proper identification.

·       If you cannot evacuate, take your entire family – including pets (both indoor and out) – to your  tornado-safe room.

·       Pets should be put in crates or carriers in the safe room. If possible, place the crates under a sturdy piece of furniture.

After the storm has passed, use caution allowing your pets and other family members outdoors.

·       Exit only AFTER the entire storm has passed.

·       Assess the damage yourself first before bringing your pets outside with you.

·       Keep your dogs on a leash and cats in a carrier.

·       Watch for objects that could cause injury or harm to your pet.

·       Allow them to become oriented. Familiar scents and landmarks may be altered and cause your pet confusion or to become lost.

·       Keep pets away from food or water or liquids that could be contaminated from the storm.

·       Keep pets away from downed power lines and debris.

Extreme Dog Make Over...

This is Otis a little rescue dog that I groomed. He was completely matted and had to be shaved down. Such a sweet dog so glad he now has a good home with a loving family. 

         Before

            After

Welcome to your new life... I know your gonna love your new home!