PET CARE

   The topic for the November Resource Training was pet care and pet ownership. Dr. Dave DeGering, a local veterinarian, provided the following information:

    Dogs
  • Dogs normally have heat cycles every 6-8 months beginning at 6 months old. Heat cycles last about 3 weeks.
  • Training is important for dogs, especially larger dogs. It's best to control dogs while they are still young.
  • Give puppies a name and use it consistently.
  • Dogs usually don't house train until they at least 12 weeks old.
  • Dogs require food and water daily. Dogs like high protein foods.
  • Dogs should be bathed every 3 weeks. Do not use human shampoo. It is best to use a mild dog shampoo.
  • Provide dogs with toys and games.
    Cats
  • Cats average three litters per year. Their heat cycles begin at 6 months and happen between January and September depending on length of day.
  • Cats require food and water daily.
  • Cat food is twice as much as dog food. Cats require more protein than dogs.
  • Cats bathe themselves and don't like to be bathed.
  • Long haired cats should be brushed daily.
  • Hair balls can be decreased through brushing, special food, and medicine.
  • Harnesses work well for cats.
  • Most cats do not like riding in cars.
    General Information
  • Pets are expensive. You need to provide daily food, yearly vaccinations, spaying and neutering, teeth cleanings, etc. Vaccinations cost range from $35.00-$50.00 per year. Teeth cleanings range from $150.00-$200.00 per cleaning.
  • Pets require lots of attention and exercise.
  • No More Homeless Pets provides spaying and neutering services at reduced costs. The organization has a mobile van that visits cities and towns in Utah County and provides these services. Call the number below for more information.
  • No More Homeless Pets also provides vouchers to help reduce spaying and neutering costs at local veterinarian offices. Pick up an application for these vouchers at any local veterinarian, animal shelter, or human rescue organization.
  • To keep track of lost pets, a world wide tracking microchip can been implanted into a cat or dog by a veterinarian. The cost is about $48.00. This is recommended since collars with identification tags can be lost.
  • Pet insurance is available at reasonable rates. VPI is a well known company.
  • Care Credit is available to help pay for veterinarian costs. Pick up application at veterinarian office.

   Dr. DeGering's office is located at 559 West 1830 North, Orem. The phone number is 226-0168. No More Homeless Pets can be reached at (801) 364-0370 or www.utahpets.org.