Yeah- it’s not easy. Yeah- you have the battle scars to prove it. The bottom line is: you still have to take out those nail clippers. Not only are you helping the furniture stay safe and sound but, if you have other pets and children running around the house, you can prevent scratches that can quickly become infected (how do you think cats tidy up their litter boxes? We assure you, it’s not with the scooper).

As a write this, I sport numerous gauze bandages on my right hand thanks to a frisky kitty called Murphy. The incident involved rough housing and a rambunctious, meowing creature eager to play the hard way. Two days later, I was in the hospital with a nurse shaking her head in disapproval and a VERY swollen hand. Just like I became wiser from the experience, I want you, our CAPS reader, to take responsibility over your buddy’s sharpened claws (which should be used for climbing and shredding cat condos and scratching posts- not hands!).

Note: We’ll be using an imaginary cat, Fifi, as our model.

The best way to get Fifi used to the clippers is by exposing her to the idea from an early age. Gently stroke her well-manicured paws frequently and never, ever trim nails when she’s distressed- we don’t want any kitty PTSD, right? My advice: make sure the meowing princess is calm or even sleepy before you start the procedure (ninja your way to her favorite pillow while she’s drowsy from her numerous cat naps). Also, have your items nearby: clippers and styptic powder or pencil should suffice (cornstarch and dry soap are good substitutes as well- in case you were as baffled as I was by the word “styptic”).

Since many of our readers have adopted companions who are well beyond the “baby” stage, we advice them not to fret! Stay relaxed and place the happy companion on your lap, floor, or table. Since personalities vary, some moody felines might not enjoy being away from their comfort zone. To avoid adopting Scarface as a nickname, hold Fifi firmly but gently while placing her fuzzy head on the crook of one arm. Even better, ask a friend or family member to hold her or pet her while you take care of business. If you gently place Fifi’s paw on your other hand and press the toe pad, the claws should easily peek out. To make the whole experience easier for you both, have some treats nearby and reassure the confused kitty cat by petting her or talking to her softly. If she shows signs of anxiety (hissing means you’ve gone too far), take a break. Since you’re focusing on the front nails, it shouldn’t take too long. Just keep an eye out for the pink tissue on the inside of the claw (the quick) and trim halfway from its end to the tip of the nail. In other words, take a little off the sharp end. The rear nails shouldn’t be a problem since most cats take care of them on their own. If you think they’re too sharp (as in “ouch! my lap!”), trim them when you’re done with the front paws.

To prevent splitting, cut the nail at a vertical angle (up and down)- avoid using right/weird angles. If by accident you clip the pink tissue, stay calm and reassure your buddy by soothing her with pretty words, a believable air of tranquility, and a treat (wouldn’t it be nice if someone did the same when you accidentally rip your nail, exposing the painful pink area? Yeah, we thought so). The bleeding should stop on its own. A styptic pencil or powder should help in case the boo boo doesn’t heal on its own. Sill no idea what those are? Scroll up and use the substitutes.

Now that you’re done, you won’t have to worry about cat scratches or nails for about 2 weeks. Take a deep breath and go on with whatever you were planning on doing next! Oh, and don’t forget to take out the scratching post!!!!

*Some cats just won’t budge when it comes to their sharpened, pretty nails. If this is the case, visit a veterinarian or professional groomer and beg for a show and tell.

Humans can easily accommodate to the rising temperatures outdoors. Like MOM probably told you repeatedly: stay hydrated, bring H2O (in a stainless steel or BPA-free bottle), slather on the sunblock, bring a hat, and wear light clothes. If the sun gets too bright, find shelter under a tree or make plans to go out during the morning or evening while the heat is bearable. Easy, right? Now what about your canine companion who’s covered in hair and cools off by panting? If you’re worried about his/her health, you have every right to be. Heatstroke should be taken seriously, especially with elderly and short-nosed dogs. But all that can be avoided with the proper preparations and precautions.

Just like people carry bottled water on bright and sunny days, they should bring portable travel pet bowls (or collapsible bowls) when hanging out with animal companions. Pack up on water before you head out and make sure you freeze the bottles or store them in a cooler- dogs and cats are very picky and dislike warm, stale water. You and Buster will be glad you prepped up when you gulp down that heavenly cool H20. Setting the bowl under the nice shade of a tree isn’t a bad idea.

Now that we’ve discussed hydration, let’s move to the next topic: cars. Most dogs love the ride- not only do they get to stick their heads out the window and watch tongues flap against the wind, but they also get attention from smiling drivers and see the wonderful world pass by in a flash. As long as you make sure your dog is safe (don’t open those windows too much and get a dog car harness or booster seat! Car accidents also affect animals!), a ride in the family vehicle is A-OK. However, NEVER leave your barking friend inside, especially when temperatures get high. If you thought the heat outside was bad, inside the car it’s ten times worse. That goes for everyone else as well. If you drive by a parked car with a hot pooch inside, look for the owner or talk to a store manager, guard, or call the authorities. Most people are misinformed or in a hurry- forgetting that a few minutes in a car can feel like an eternity.

Going for a walk is great for you and your companion. Taking a stroll cures cabin fever and allows you to exercise stiff muscles. Dogs also need their daily workouts! While many people believe paws are resilient to ANYTHING, the skin in that area is very sensitive. That’s not an excuse to stay indoors, though: there’s always grass or dirt. Tar and pavement can cause burns- so check Fido’s paw-paws frequently. Having multiple shade spots is a must! Everyone needs a breather from ultraviolet rays! Even when you’re back home, it’s extremely important animals have a shaded corner to cool off.

Can’t head out to the park? If you have a backyard (or any type of yard), bring out the water hose. You’re not bathing the dog! By splashing some water on the panting pooch, you’re helping the poor, hairy friend cool off. Just don’t attempt this with a cat! A dampened towel will work just fine. When felines and canines figure out they’re not in line for a scrub-a-dub, they’ll be extra thankful. Want something more creative? Get a sprinkler or a kiddie pool. Just make sure there’s no danger of drowning (pups and children should ALWAYS be supervised).

Last but not least, keep your companion animals healthy and well-groomed. The groomer doesn’t need to shave off pounds of hair- a trim works just fine. A brush or two a day helps Fido feel more comfortable and saves you from having to vacuum hair from every surface in the house 7 days a week.

Still feeling weary about taking Buster outdoors? Provided he is small or you’re strong, you can buy a doggie stroller or backpack. Go ahead, we know you like to spoil him!

If living without a barking/meowing pal is NOT an option, follow these simple tips to reduce the sniffles and prohibit watery, itchy eyes from dampening the wag-a-tail, barks-for-free mood:

• First off, people who suffer from allergies and asthma should understand what is making them sneeze. Our immune system is supposed to detect and fight foreign substances such as viruses and bacteria. People who suffer from allergies have super sensitive immune systems that react to harmless proteins such as those found in pet dander (dead skin cells), saliva, and urine.
• The best way to stay allergy free is to stray from whatever makes you sneeze. If living without companion animals is not an option, consider adopting a short-haired cat or dog: they shed more and accumulate less dander. Also take into consideration drooling tendencies. Saliva contains allergens.
• According to Familydoctor.org, cat or dog dander accumulates in dust and can take up to 4 weeks or more to die down. In other words, cleaning shouldn’t be left for the Spring- it should be an ongoing chore for a healthier lifestyle.
• Bare walls and floors are ideal for allergic “humans.” Animal allergens are sticky and pesky, so removing wall-to-wall carpets to scrub walls and floors is highly recommended.
• Keep Fifi out of the bedroom, even if the meowing keeps you up all night. Make life a bit more breathable by getting allergen-resistant bedding and impermeable covers for the mattress and pillows. Washable items are a MUST.
• Dust and dander love fabric curtains, blinds, and carpeted floors. Buy couch covers, pillows, and pet furniture that are machine washable. You can also shampoo upholstery and select from a wide array of lint-type brushes and rollers that use rubber or adhesive sheets to remove dander-filled pet hair.
• If you don’t have a choice and must stick to the carpet, clean frequently with steam cleaners. Throw rugs can be washed in hot water.
• Don’t forget your mask! When you vacuum, allergens fly all over the place, making your sneeze more. Vacuums with HEPA filters make cleaning much easier.
• HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Arresting): “A [...] mechanical filter that means it’s a”high-efficiency particulate air” filter. HEPA was invented during World War II to prevent the escape of radioactive particles from laboratories. To qualify as a true HEPA filter, it must be able to capture at least 99.97% percent of all particles 0.3 microns in diameter, or larger, that enter it.”
• Get Fido and Fifi used to the idea of frequent scrub-a-dubs. Washing your pal once a week can reduce airborne allergens. You can also use disposable wipes in between baths.
• Contact your vet before you bathe Fido. Some shampoos are better than others because they specifically target the problem: dander. Keep in mind that cats need extra TLC because their skin tends to be more sensitive.
• Find a volunteer to brush and groom your canine pal outside to prevent dander from getting indoors. Cleaning the litter box outside is also recommended. If you can’t find a friendly helper, wear a mask and gloves.
• Many websites recommend a closed-litter box for highly allergic folks. Keep the kitty potty away from main airways and consider buying one with a filter.
• Purchase an air cleaner with a HEPA filter for the central heating or a/c. These help remove pet allergens from the air. Air cleaners with electrostatic filters will get rid of particles the size of animal allergens.
• There are various types of air cleaners and air purifiers that don’t come attached to the a/c, heating unit, or vacuum cleaner. These can be classified as mechanical filters (fan-driven HEPA filters), electronic filters (ion-type cleaners), or hybrid filters. The AAFA website offers detailed information to help you choose according to your needs.
• Fill the medicine cabinet with anti-allergy essentials such as antihistamines, decongestants, cromolyn sodium (nasal spray), and eye drops. Consult your doctor or pharmacist before combining any of the above. You can also get a prescription for nasal steroid sprays or ask a specialist about allergy shots or treatments.
• You can’t blame your four-legged buddy for all your allergies. Go to a specialist to specify which allergens affect you the most. By finding a specific cause, you can target the problem with more efficiency.
• When playing, consider doing so outside- the dander will fly everywhere, including yourself, but it’ll help minimize indoor contamination.
• If you come in contact with your pet (or a friend’s pooch) keep in mind that your clothes will probably carry allergens inside the household. Remove clothing before entering bedroom or allergen-free zones (keep a laundry hamper outside the room) and wash with hot water.
• Make sure you wash your face and hands after playing with your rambunctious buddy.
• While dusting away, dampen a cloth. Dry-dusting only stirs the tiny particles, making them airborne instead of trapping them. Pledge has special dry cloths that grab dust, dirt, and hair.
• Change heat and air filters at least one a month.
• Before buying or renting a house, check if the previous owners/tenants had pets. If so, clean floors and walls thoroughly before moving in.

Imagine this:

You’ve tried it all. The litter is clean, there are at least 10 candles burning, the windows are wide open, the fans (note the plural) are at full capacity, and you’ve bought at least 5 different bottles of Febreze and Glade. You think you’ve finally gotten rid of the smell until you come back from work and sniff the unmistakable odor lingering in the air as Princess Meow Meow rubs her stinky self all over your legs. You consider giving up and buying a lifetime supply of face-masks while keeping social interactions strictly outdoors and then you see it: a big, fat, wet stain smack in the middle of the living room carpet. You weren’t suffering from phantom ammonia attacks- the evidence was just drying up before you could bomb it with carpet cleaner. Now what?

Your friendly companion hasn’t been conspiring behind your back: there are multiple reasons for out-of-the-box accidents and just as many solutions. Your first odor-attack plan should be calling the vet to rule out a urinary tract infection, urine crystals, or other serious health problems. Regardless of the diagnosis, which we hope is just a disgruntled cat, you have to eventually come back home and face the stains. Here’s where we come to the rescue! Read the following tips so you can finally invite some friends over without the shame of compulsively grabbing the air freshener bottle:

• Understand what you’re dealing with. Cat urine is a concentrated, amber-colored waste fluid excreted by the kidneys. The color and staining depends on diet, age, sex, medications, and overall health. Because feline diet is richer in protein than a dog’s diet, the urine has harsher odors. Also, the smell differs depending on whether the cat is simply relieving him/herself or marking territory (queens -females- are also territorial creatures).
• Is your kitty spayed or neutered? Sterilizing your meowing buddy isn’t just about helping the world by making sure you aren’t contributing to the already out-of-control shelter population problem. Cats, especially “intact” toms (males), like their space- meaning they’re territorial and show dominance by marking spaces with their peculiar scent. Making an appointment for the quick and relatively inexpensive procedure diminishes specific hormones that lead to spraying and aggression. The earlier you act, the better: vets suggest scheduling an appointment from 8 weeks to 6 months of age.
• Take a look at the litter box- are you cleaning it regularly? Cats are just like you- they like their toilets to be clean and stink-free. Purchasing UNSCENTED clumping litter, scooping daily, and replacing old litter with fresh litter on a weekly basis (you can stretch it out if you only have one cat) are some of the many things you can do to keep Little Miss (or Mister) Fur Ball from tinkling outside her (or his) bathroom. Also:

1. If you have more than one cat, get more than one box. Sometimes cats like separate boxes for #1 and #2.
2. Is the litter box located in an easy-to-access location? Is it far away from machinery and loud noises? Sometimes your companion might avoid using the litter because it’s either too far away or there’s a big, bad, and loud clothes dryer.
3. Cats prefer open spaces. If you have a closed box, make sure it’s big enough for Fifi to stretch and dig.
4. Don’t use bags or anything that’s scented (sprays, litter, you name it). Those are big feline turn-offs. Stick to baking soda if you need to eliminate unfriendly odors.

• Go shopping. After researching online, CAPS decided the following items are must-haves:

1. Baking soda
2. White vinegar
3. Paper towels or old rags
4. Empty, spray bottle
5. Bleach (READ WARNING)
6. Dish soap
7. Hydrogen Peroxide diluted 3% solution
8. Puppy potty training pads: they’re super absorbent and great for those icky puddles!
9. Apple cider vinegar (for laundry)
10. Cheap, cleaning brush
11. Black light: if the urine has dried up, it’ll smell but you won’t be able to spot it as easily. This trick will help you find the odor’s origin by making stains glow.
12. Cat urine cleaner (available at pet supply stores): Simple Solution, Nature’s Miracle, Complete Pet Stain and Odor Remover by Eight in One, and Capture Pet Stain and Odor Neutralizer. These cleaners attack and feed on enzymes and bacteria found in urine, destroying the odor at its source.

• Gather the items listed above, put on some gloves, and get ready for some heavy-duty carpet/upholstery cleaning by following these simple steps (from the blog How to Get Rid of Things):

1. Blot out as much of the cat urine as possible.
2. Mix 3 parts water with one part vinegar and saturate the spot. Blot (don’r rub!).
3. Once dry, sprinkle with baking soda.
4. Mix 2/4 cup of 3% hydrogen peroxide solution with one tsp. of dish detergent/soap and sprinkle over baking soda (test first to make sure you don’t end up with a discolored spot).
5. Use a brush to work the mix in.
6. Wait until dry and vacuum/brush off.

• If you’re dealing with the sofa (or anything cushiony), don’t apply any solution directly (pour onto a clean cloth/paper towel) and use a hair dryer to ensure you don’t leave behind any moisture.
• If the stain is fresh and hasn’t penetrated the fabric all the way through, just dampen the area and sprinkle baking soda. Rub the baking soda in, let it dry, and vacuum/brush off.
• To make sure your kitty can’t smell residual urine and use the sofa as a toilet again, use an odor neutralizer that’ll get rid of the actual bacteria.
• Still no results? Rent an extractor or wet-vac from a local hardware store. Basically they target the area with clean water and suck it back in when it’s dirty.
• For cat urine on your laundry (the horror!), use ¼ apple cider vinegar and your regular laundry detergent and proceed as usual.
• We recommend you stray from using bleach. White vinegar can be just as effective and less harmful when used correctly- just wash the soiled area, rinse and repeat if necessary. USE THE FOLLOWING ONLY IF THE SMELL IS PERSISTENT. You can use bleach to clean cement floors and bare walls. DO NOT USE BLEACH UNTIL YOU HAVE CLEANED OUT THE URINE. Ammonia and bleach do NOT mix well- when combined, they release chlorine gas which can be fatal to humans and animals. After you’ve cleaned the area with a product that DOES NOT CONTAIN AMMONIA OR BLEACH, proceed by mixing 10:1 water and bleach in a spray bottle (VERY DILUTED SOLUTION). Make sure you wash out any other cleaning products before spraying. Ventilate the room, wear gloves, avoid inhaling fumes, and make sure you don’t end up staining your own clothes. Wipe bleach off with a damp rag/paper towel.
• Observe your cat. Sometimes simple changes can create distress in animals that depend on routine. If you brought home another pet, moved to a new place, changed food or litter brands, exchanged litter box locations, had new visitors, or changed schedules, Fifi might just be trying to tell you something. Take the necessary steps to reduce feline stress and dedicate more time to showing your love and affection.
• Calling a professional animal behaviorist can help you understand Mr. Socks on a deeper level so you can help improve your cat’s mood and put an end to attitude problems.
• NEVER GIVE UP ON YOUR FRIEND! Don’t leave your loved kitten in the shelter: there’s always a solution. It might seem like the responsible thing to do, but these places (excluding no-kill shelters) have strict regulations that might lead to euthanasia. Many abandoned pets are victims of humans taking the easy way out.
• Side note: Be vigilant! The sooner you find the soiled area, the better. Also, try testing products or solutions on small, hidden surfaces so you don’t end up discoloring the brand-new carpet.

Sadly, this is not a hypothetical situation. Many people have to face such demands in order to live in a nice home. Perfect living arrangements are obtainable at the expense of a dog’s vocal chords or a cat’s sharp claws and many veterinarians go ahead with the barbaric procedure.

It’s cruel and unfair, but is anybody doing ANYTHING about it?

The answer is simple: yes.

“I had always thought that declawing was barbaric and shouldn’t be done [...] And the more I learned of it, the more apparent it became that this was a procedure being done for the convenience of people without any real thought to the consequences to the animal.”

- Assemblyman Nava to the LA Times

Companion animals have a friend of their own in the California legislature. Assemblyman Pedro Nava (D - Santa Barbara) recently introduced legislation (Assembly Bill 2743) that would ban California landlords from forcing tenants to declaw or devocalize their four-legged family members. The sneaky apartment owners will no longer be able to give preference or special treatment to tenants who take their cat or dog to the vet for the inhumane procedures.

Interestingly enough, one of the largest landlord associations in the state, the California Apartment Association, supports the bill. They encourage landlords to rely on pet deposits and make pet owners responsible for whatever damage Fifi and Fido unleash on said property (sort of like the security deposit university kids pay in case their drunken frat parties get out of control). After all, isn’t the human 100% responsible?

Others argue that the bill doesn’t go far enough. Many cities in California and elsewhere in the country have banned the practice of declawing and devocalizing altogether. Assemblyman Nava considered introducing a bill to ban both procedures, but decided to narrow down the measure in hopes of reaching the right direction one step at a time. After all, doesn’t everybody have a cruelty switch that can easily be turned off with education and persuasion?

Apparently not.

Groups such as the California Veterinary Medical Association disagree with the bill. They say the legislation has claims about declawing that are not substantiated with sufficient research (there’s always a loophole, folks!). According to them, statements claiming that felines change behavior after the surgery are hardly proven.

Anyone who has ever gone through the torturous ordeal of trimming nails would agree that feisty, purring companions are VERY protective of their claws. Why would a group composed of experts in the veterinary field overlook that? Why do several European countries, such as England and Germany, made the practice illegal?

Strange, isn’t it?

Declawing- or onychectomy- must be done by a veterinarian and is often a non-therapeutic surgical procedure done with a laser, scalpel, or clippers (ouch?). The surgery is often performed so Fifi won’t damage the human’s favorite chair. Organizations such as Cats International compare it to “amputating a person’s finger or toe at the first knuckle.” As a result, the mutilated pet won’t be able to grow the claws again - a reality many owners regret when they notice a significant change in the cat’s behavior, including aggression and litter box avoidance. The Coalition to Protect and Rescue Pets defines devocalization as a nonessential “convenience” surgery in which vocal cords are cut to suppress or remove an animal’s voice. Some animals struggle to breathe, choke on food and water, and gag uncontrollably for the rest of their lives. Others die due to complications. If you want a clearer picture, imagine a doctor removing your finger and rendering you speechless- not a pretty site, now is it?

Regardless of both dissenting sides, such procedures are done for the convenience of humans, not the other way around. By dedicating more time to observing, grooming, and actually taking care of either felines or canines, the behavioral problems that lead to destroyed furniture or annoyed neighbors can be easily managed without the need of surgery (taking your dog out more often, cleaning the litter box, PLAYING, going for a yearly vet checkup, and buying a scratching post are all good ways to start).

Dealing with scratchy and noisy but happy pets is part of the beautiful experience of loving a companion animal. The easy way out, surgery, isn’t always the best decision. Don’t let your landlord (or anyone for that matter) tell you otherwise.

More Information:

Reason AB 2743 is Necessary

What YOU can do: the Paw Project

Who devocalizes? What do the dogs sound like?

Hear what animal experts say

1. Get your furry friend a toy made out of sustainable materials. Buy cat toys stuffed with organic cotton or recycle old clothes, like socks, and fill them with catnip.
2. Use organic, plant based litter made of natural products such as corn and cedar shavings.
3. When taking Fido out for a walk, clean up after him! You can help prevent nasty bacteria from getting into the water system through storm drains. Remember to use biodegradable bags.
4. Getting a self-cleaning litter box sounds magical, but using your good ol’ hands saves up energy and brings home a friendlier electric bill.
5. When you buy your furry friend food, take a look at the packaging. Buying in bulk reduces the use of fossil fuels by making you take fewer trips and it reduces the amount of packaging you dispose of every time you run out of goodies (one big bag is always better than 10 smaller ones).
6. Looking for local brands of healthy dog or cat food cuts down on the amount of fuel used in transportation and delivery.
7. If you really want to make a dent on Earth’s health and your pet’s diet, make your own pet food. There are plenty of websites with recipes that are both nutrient rich and good for the hungry pup.
8. If everything you cook burns or turns out unsavory (you’re not the only one, so cheer up!), seek natural food options. Some brands contain hormones, antibiotics, and animal-by-products.  Packages that don’t mention “FDA Certified Food Grade” aren’t human friendly- would you give your barking/meowing best friend something that’s harmful to you?
9. While searching for a vet, a dog park, or a store, think in terms of mileage. Make your gas money last and the air more breathable!
10. You can significantly reduce your companion’s carbon paw print by buying eco-friendly products. Nowadays, getting green toys, beds, leashes, collars, and bowls is as easy as surfing the web.
11. Reuse and recycle! A paper bag or an old piece of rope can provide hours of fun. Cats are just as likely to love used blankets and pillows as much as new ones. Using old sheets can also reduce stress when your pooch starts shedding mind-boggling amounts of hair.
12. Pamper your pup (or kitty cat) with products that’s don’t contain icky phosphates, sulfates, and other toxic chemicals. Make sure your groomer deviates from these nature unfriendly products as well!
13. Ceramic and stainless steel bowls are a smarter choice than plastic food containers. Plastic can last a lifetime in a landfill and isn’t very durable.
14. When ticks and fleas become a menace, do some research before buying pest control products; the ingredients used are often toxic. If the label mentions chlorpyrifos, dichlorvos, or phosmet, scratch it off the shopping list and search for products that use natural ingredients.
15. You’ve heard it before: Adopt, don’t buy/Spay & neuter. Controlling pet population is always green. Sterilization can also help Fifi and Fido live healthier lives by reducing several types of cancer.
16. Google it! The Internet offers an immense variety of resources, including green online stores and helpful advice from the pros. How do you think we came across all these ideas?

• If you can think of any other way to celebrate Mother Earth, feel free to leave a comment. You’d be surprised at the countless tips out there!

To calculate your pet’s carbon paw print, click here.

Oh! And here’s a list of online stores that sell awesome eco-friendly products:

• Bags on Board
• The Sophisticated Cat - Check out the Kittypod Mini
• Global Dog Natural Pet Products
• Earth Doggy
• Etsy.com
• Square Cat Habitat

The Pet Guardian’s Kindred Spirits Gift Shop is a favorite amongst CAPS members. President and owner Jean B. Brudd started her business when her two dogs, Tasha and Nikki, passed away shortly after what seemed to be a normal visit to the vet (read her story).

On the wings of Tasha and Niki’s passing came the reminder of the simpler things in life that matter the most to me. I found my life’s purpose and passion for reaching out, helping people feel good inside and, as guardians, making sure our pets thrive. I transferred my sadness and creative energy into creating the Kindred Spirits Gift Shop, a heavenly place where one can give a gift of the heart to a special someone and let them know how much they are loved and cherished.

-Jean B. Brudd

Amidst the various lovable items found in the store, The Paws for Celebration gift basket will melt any dog-loving-mother’s heart. The beautifully arranged basket comes with a black and white paw print wooden photo frame, a jeweled paw collar charm by Mud Pie Pets, a handmade doggie bandana, all natural treats for Fido, a celebration cake, and Max, an adorable and huggable plush pup. If Mom is all about her pooch, not only can she pamper the furry friend, but she can help CAPS continue its fight against puppy mills; twenty-five percent of proceeds goes to our organization. Make sure you browse the website for other amazing tokens of affection, such as figurines, journals, stationery, yummy lotions, books, and pretty jewelry. Five percent of all purchases (before taxes, shipping, and handling) is donated to either Angel’s Gate, CAPS, and Meisha’s Hope AIHA/IMHA Fund (you get to choose), thus giving back to what Brudd likes to call kindred spirits.

If you’re looking for something a little bit more sophisticated, there’s always “vino.” ABC Basset Hound Rescue and Benefit Wines teamed up and introduced the must-have “Hair of the Hound” line of wines. The witty collection includes Cuddly Cabernet, Pee-No! Noir, Shhhardonnay, Sauvignon Bark, Master’s Merlot, and Slobbering White. The bottles feature rescued bassets- making any basset hound aficionado want to collect them all. Even better, $7.00 from each bottle sold is donated to ABCBHR (another reason to celebrate!). If alcohol is not what you had in mind, the organization has a gift shop featuring art, clothing, hand bags, shower curtains, wood signs (Basset Crossing, hee hee!), and mugs. The Slobber Shoppe is run strictly by volunteers, making 100% of the profits go to helping homeless basset hounds in New York State.

Need we say more?

Make this year count by surprising Mom and by giving back to our four legged pals.

Sifting through clumps of litter is disgusting. Kneeling on the floor, mastering the use of the scooper, and keeping your pet from jumping in as you clean is dishonorable. The embarrassment of a visitor catching a sniff of the ammonia can reach mortifying levels. And lets not forget about the gag factor.

But you love your cat and you make amends, embracing all responsibilities, including the dirty ones.

There’s no way to avoid cleaning up the litter box, unless someone else does it for you (hooray!) or you get one of those expensive self-cleaning machines. Next time you walk by your feline companion sitting in his/her throne minding his/her business, fear not! There is a solution to your nightmarish problem.

The first thing you should keep in mind is: How often do YOU flush your own toilet? If you were to stop doing so, wouldn’t you start feeling a bit dirty? Well, place yourself in your cat’s paws (har har!). Cats are finicky creatures, and very much like you, they cringe at the idea of relieving themselves in a dirty box (they also have a keener sense of smell). It’s bound to get nasty if you don’t keep up with your kitty chores, so don’t blame it on Fifi! Just suck it up and read the following tips:

Tip 1: Clean up on a daily basis, it’ll keep the grime from accumulating on the bottom of the box and reduce the gag factor significantly. All you need is a sturdy plastic or metal scooper, a plastic waste container (you know… a bag), and the will to have a clean area. Change the litter once a week. If you have numerous cats, you might need to do so more often.

Tip 2: Keep paper towels nearby. Our furry companions are usually turned off by ammonia based or citrus/flower scented cleaning products (some of them are even toxic!). The best way to go around the daunting task is by using water and dish detergent. Some folks keep a bottle of DILUTED bleach for a quick scrub. Whenever the lid or the sides of the box get soiled, spot away. It’ll help keep the smell at bay.

Tip 3: Get a flat litter mat (avoid the ones with raised bumps, they’re more difficult to clean). You won’t have to worry about stepping on God-knows-what.

Tip 4: Get a big litter box. Or a big storage box. Cats dig space and so do parents who dislike walking on dug-out litter. Just make sure that the grime doesn’t stick to the bottom; that would defeat the purpose of keeping it clean, right?

*Note: Hooded boxes might look big (and pleasing to the human eye), but they tend to be uncomfortable for those using it, making cats feel trapped and parents oblivious to what’s going inside (out of sight, out of mind). However, some are spacious enough and come with filters to absorb odors. You can always test a cheap one and see how it goes!

Tip 5: If you have more than one cat, get more than one litter box. If you only have one pet but live in a big house, get more than one litter box. Keep in mind, some cats like one box for urinating and another box for defecating.

*Note: Don’t put the box in the laundry room, near a radiator, or in the cold, cement basement. It gets noisy in there and you might end up traumatizing your pet. Would you like going to the bathroom in a freezing, dark room?

Tip 6: Cats are put off by scented litter. They also dislike air fresheners. If the smell is getting to you, powder a thin layer of baking soda on the bottom of the box. It’ll absorb odors without disgruntling anybody.

Tip 7: Cats aren’t thrilled about litter box liners, but if you want to try them out, experiment for a day or two and see how your pet reacts.

Tip 8: Just because you add more litter doesn’t mean the box is cleaner; the crap is still there. Two or three inches of the grainy stuff is enough for the cat to do its business. Adding clean litter is not going to make the clumps magically disappear.

Tip 9: Don’t change litter brands frequently- Fifi is a creature of habit. Some people like clay, other people are against it. There are other affordable products in the market such as scooping/clumping litter, crystal based/silica gel litter, and plant-derived/bio-degradable litter. It’s your decision- just stray from anything scented. If you want to reduce your carbon footprint- do some research: it’s not as expensive as you’d think!

*Note: If your cat starts going outside the box, you should call your vet. Sometimes, when your pet isn’t feeling well, he/she will show something’s wrong by changing potty behavior. If your vet says everything is fine and dandy, you might just have a disgruntled cat that dislikes something you’re doing or using. Did you buy another brand of litter? Is there a new companion competing for attention? Write down your observations and consult a pro.

*Note: PUNISHMENT is NEVER the answer, it’ll just make things worse. NEVER, NEVER rub your cat’s face on the litter box/feces/urine (yes, people have done this). Try to figure out what’s wrong and act accordingly. In the long run, you might need to seek professional advice.

If you’re still clueless about cleaning the litter box, watch this VIDEO (taken from catinfo.org).

The unique H2O treatment helps pets with muscle problems and weight issues reach recovery faster- in other cases it helps with pain. The water bouyancy reduces pressure and stress caused by the animal’s weight (gravity can be a bummer!). In turn, with the lack of Earth’s greedy pull (go physics!), pooches such as Bea do the exercises they need in a much more comfortable and safe environment.

The recent practice hasn’t come up with any jaw-dropping controversies (sorry gawkers!), but it DOES have its drawbacks. One very obvious problem: some animals HATE water (if you have a cat, you know what we’re talking about). While a few kittens will be willing to jump in the water, you’ll be hard pressed to find a grown feline that won’t find the whole experience downright traumatizing. However, a professional with experience is key to the success of the treatment, even more so than the actual equipment. Before making any final decisions, do a little research and check out reviews: it’ll make things much easier.

A good example of how professionals make “the difference” is located right in Walpole, MA. The Sterling Impressions Animal Rehabilitation Center of New England features low beds and a soothing environment to diminish your pup’s fear of anything clinic-related. The staff goes out of its way to make every session an enjoyable experience, thus improving the effectiveness of therapy.

While treatments vary, therapists choose from a variety of methods, usually going for the water. Bea’s treatment included a water treadmill. The unique hydrotherapy allows the professional to custom tailor the session based on the companion animal’s specific needs. Everything from water turbulence, water depth, speed, direction, and even temperature are factors that play a key role in the effectiveness of the procedure and the overall experience. Besides enjoying her time in the water, the Howard basset hound enjoyed massages, stretching, heat, and ice. She also experienced the magic of a red. peanut-shaped therapy ball and a wobble board to practice balance and help with core conditioning. According to Deborah, her loyal human, Bea’s favorite part was playing the star of the spa while receiving a massage surrounded by physical therapists and interns (now that’s the good life!).

Success stories are abundant. Pets all around the country have overcome everything from body weight issues to major surgery recovery while splish-splashing in the treadmill (including horses). In Bea’s case, the infamous blogger found some respite from the tedious joint pain while Deborah got the chance to relax her shoulders.

Contact your vet or a professional to see which treatments are best for your companion. We assure you, it’s worth checking out.

The Sterling Impressions Animal Rehabilitation Center of New England:

1008 East Street Walpole, MA 02081-2980

(508) 668 - 7946