From Angus With Love

Jesus Doesn't Want Me for a Sunbeam

noreply@blogger.com (Blogging Queen) — Fri, 06 Apr 2012 02:27:00 +0000

But he did want Kurt...R.I.P. Kurt Cobain - February 20, 1967 – April 5, 1994

Spring Break

noreply@blogger.com (Blogging Queen) — Mon, 26 Mar 2012 16:31:00 +0000

Written by my friend Dong Wood

Our Spring Break is next week and I have no plans, and really no money to spend on anything extra anyway. I put it out there on Facebook to see if anyone had access to a beach house or something sweet like that, but so far, no leads. I really don’t want to spend the week watching direct TV and eating potato chips.

Although, honestly, after as hard as I’ve been working this semester to pass my classes, that might be just what I need. A vacation could actually be more exhausting with all the packing, driving, unpacking, etc. Also, like I said, I really shouldn’t spend any money right now because I need all I can to pay my bills and whatnot.

Maybe my friends and I can go in on a fun day trip to the city or something. There are a few museums I haven’t been to that I’ve been wanting to check out. That might be fun and a little more manageable at this point.

They're Leaving AGAIN

noreply@blogger.com (Blogging Queen) — Sun, 04 Mar 2012 18:32:00 +0000

But this time they aren't even taking the Littles!!! I cannot believe this stunt they're pulling!

And even though the Littles are being left behind, I'm still stuck at home, alone...well, WITH THE CATS!

Confined to the Upstairs

noreply@blogger.com (Blogging Queen) — Thu, 23 Feb 2012 16:56:00 +0000

Last week a "plumber" (whatever that is) came to the house for a while and for the entire time this Human guy was at the house, Human Girl made me stay upstairs. I guess I jump and slobber on Humans too much?

Of course, I did NOT stay upstairs, I hung out on the steps and was obnoxious the entire time...hahaha......

RATIONING NETFLIX

noreply@blogger.com (Blogging Queen) — Thu, 23 Feb 2012 16:52:00 +0000

Guest post written by my buddy Aldo Mays

I have been watching way to much television lately. For Christmas, my parents sent us a blu-ray player that allowed us to use our casselberry wireless internet providers to stream wi-fi right to the box. We signed up for Netflix. I have literally stopped watching television that much. I find watching movies and television shows from start to finish much more fulfilling. I just seem to get more into a television show when it is not broken up by commercials and you can watch one episode after another, whenever you want to!

My new favorite show, that I hadn’t watched before because it was a little before my time is the “X-Files”. There are nine seasons, and since Christmas time, I have already watched the first three and am well into the fourth season! I am going to be sad when I watch all of the seasons and there aren’t any more episodes to watch! I may have to start rationing them for myself! If not, I will have to find another show to start getting into.

While Human Girl Works

noreply@blogger.com (Blogging Queen) — Sun, 19 Feb 2012 18:26:00 +0000

I am never too far from Human Girl, even when she is working. I mean, look what I put up with just to be in her office with her:

See that green bed? Yea, Human Boy bought that for ME...stupid cat! I swear, how did I get stuck with four felines?

Door and Kennel Options for the Indoor/Outdoor Pooch

noreply@blogger.com (Blogging Queen) — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 15:54:00 +0000

When it comes to exercising, there's nothing a playful pup likes more than running around outside in a yard or park but when comes time to pack it in for the day where else would you want your best friend be besides curled up at the foot of your bed? The only problem is, dog owners have to tend to their own lives occasionally, leaving you with the tough choice of either finding someone who can watch your dog in your busy hours or finding a way to let them out to do their business or play on their own while you're at work or otherwise occupied. This is where dog doors or dog kennels can swoop in and save the day. A door, kennel or both can be the perfect answer to your indoor/outdoor dog dilemma.

Dog doors come in a variety or types and styles ranging from the standard flap doggy door to a more advanced, automatic door for the mechanically inclined. The biggest deciding factor in choosing one lies with the size of your dog along with how often he or she needs to be out. For most, a properly sized flap door will do the job, but pet owners who live with more wild neighbors might want consider installing one of the many electronic or automatic dog doors to keep anything else from strolling in of its own accord. For those who like a greater range of control over their dog's coming and goings will find use in a sliding glass dog door that comes with a lock, allowing you to decide whether that entrance is open or closed.

If you already have a dog door or have decided to install one, you may also want to consider building an outdoor dog kennel. Whether you have an open yard or if you only want to set up a specific part of your space for your dog to have as his or her own a wire or mesh kennel is easy to build and simple to attach to your dog door so your pup can come and go in their own area as they please. Kennels can also be built to house your dog from unexpected harsh weather if they're outside.

An insulated dog kennel can be the perfect addition to your yard for the cooler or wetter months, giving them a place to stay warm and dry. One thing to remember about both doors and kennels is that when you're choosing one, be sure to pick one that's right for you, your dog and your living space but once you work that out, there's no limit to the possibilities for building a doorway and space for your family dog.

Are Dog Clothes Necessary for Your Dog in Winter?

noreply@blogger.com (Unbalanced Libra) — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 00:09:00 +0000

If you think that humans are the only ones that can pull off some attention grabbing outfits then think again! These days’ dogs have their own line of clothing and accessories and they too have the capability to get some head turning looks. The dog line of clothing was created to give your pet the comfort and convenience they deserve (not to mention the fun humans have shopping for and dressing them!). In fact you can find dog clothes for any season. You will be able to easily find seasonal clothing for your dog, for special occasions or clothes to be worn regularly – such as pajamas!

When winter draws near, humans make preparations by purchasing clothing that is appropriate for the season, after all the winter is categorized as extremely cold weather. Now if your buns are freezing due to the cold weather, then imagine how your dog must feel. Sure your dog has fur to help to protect them from the harsh weather; however, it wouldn’t hurt to purchase dog clothes for your dog. Purchasing a jacket or sweatshirt for your dog will certainly make him more comfortable during the cold winter months. The health of your dog is very important so do not assume that your dog’s fur is enough to keep them warm during the winter months, especially if your dog lives mostly in the house.

If you are wondering where you need to go to purchase clothes for your dog, look no further than the Internet or your local pet store. Going to your local pet store and asking if they supply winter clothes for dogs is a great place to start your search.

Also, be sure that you chose the correct size clothing for your dog. You want his clothes to not only fit well, you want him look good! If you are looking to get your dog’s clothing at low prices, then be sure to shop online.

More Home Security Tips

noreply@blogger.com (Blogging Queen) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 18:06:00 +0000

Thanks for the guest post by Jo Levy

Recently my husband and I decided that we wanted to look in to getting an alarm system for our house. We have both gained some pretty nice items such as a large flat screen television (for my husband, of course) and for me a Macbook Pro and some really nice professional camera gear. We have insurance on all of these items but you can really never been to careful when it comes to home safety.

I Googled home safety tips and found several. I also found this site http://www.homesecurity101.com which gave me a lot of good information as well. Did you know that if you have timers on the lights on the front of your home it will deter an intruder because they are not certain if there is really someone home turning on the light or if it is on a timer? All you need to do is create just a little bit of doubt for them and they will choose a different house or possible leave your neighborhood altogether. Another idea I found was to have a fence around the backyard.

Valerian Root for Dogs

noreply@blogger.com (Blogging Queen) — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 17:53:00 +0000

Thunderstorms, trips to the vet, and even being left alone can create anxiety in some dogs. Valerian root is a safe and effective herb to use in treating dogs with anxiety, especially for those whose anxiety causes severe irritability and mood changes.

Information

Valerian root is the part of the plant used for medicinal purposes. The root is pressed into fresh juice or is freeze-dried to form powder. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, valerian works by increasing the amount of gamma aminobutyric acid, a chemical found in the brain. This chemical helps to regulate nerve cells and creates a calming effect on anxiety.

Uses

Valerian root is an effective sedative and is used to treat hyperactivity, anxiety, restlessness and even insomnia. This herb works well when given to dogs before and after a situation that makes them nervous, such as a long car ride, a trip to the vet or thunderstorms.

Preparations

This herb comes in several different forms. Tinctures are available in alcohol or alcohol-free bases, while powdered valerian root is sold as a tea or in the form of capsules. Variations of valerian root preparations sometimes contain ingredients other than the herb. Be sure when purchasing valerian root you are getting a preparation safe for use in dogs. A veterinarian can provide you with information on what to avoid.

Administering Valerian Root

To give your dog tinctures of this herb, use a plastic dropper or syringe, and insert it into the mouth of your dog, aiming to get the liquid directly down the throat. If you have the dried form, sprinkle it over small amounts of your dog’s food. Capsules can also be broken apart and the inner powder sprinkled over food. In tea form, brew the tea and allow it to cool before giving it to your dog, either as a drink or poured over his food. Dosages depend on the severity of the anxiety as well as the health and weight of your dog. Consult with a holistic veterinarian to get the proper dosage.

Warnings

This herb can cause digestive upset if used in large dosages. Do not use valerian root in pregnant dogs.

Source

Aww, Me as a Pup

noreply@blogger.com (Blogging Queen) — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 17:45:00 +0000

Human Girl came across this picture of me when I was just a puppy. I think this was the first week I was with them.

My Stubborn Parents

noreply@blogger.com (Blogging Queen) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 15:40:00 +0000

Written by Don Gregory

I have been trying to get my parents to get a computer and clear internet service forever. My parents are in their late 60’s, so they have never used computers much and they are resistant to learning. I have offered help in teaching them the things they will need to know, so I don’t know why they have been so hesitant. I live close to them so I know that we wouldn’t need to email each other, but my sister and her family live in North Dakota and I thought it would be a great way for them to keep in touch.

I think that my nieces and nephews would love to Skype with their grandparents. My parents are happy to come over to my place and let me set up a Skype chat but they are being so stubborn about learning to do it themselves. There are also so many other things they would be able to do, like pay their bills and store their photos.

This year for Christmas I am just going to buy them a desktop so they won’t be able to resist anymore. Hopefully they’ll like it!

My New Ouchie

noreply@blogger.com (Blogging Queen) — Sun, 04 Dec 2011 19:20:00 +0000

Something is always happening to me that seems to require a visit to the veterinarian. Even though Human Girl used to work for a vet, she cannot always manage my issues on her own. This last time I got my dewclaw caught on something and it ripped. It ripped really far down and I was bleeding. It happened while the family was away and some lady called 'Nana' and some man called 'Frank' were taking care of me. They did not know anything was wrong with my nail. By the time my family got back from being away, my paw hurt pretty bad.

Human Girl noticed and tried to cut it back. She told Human Boy that all a vet would do was cut it back and give me antibiotics (whatever that is??) I would not let her mess with my nail - it just hurt too much. However, this meant a trip to the vet. I am really glad I am seen by veterinarians who are nice and know a whole lot about animals. I have heard some awful stories form other animals.

My vet, Dr. Lucy, did just what Human Girl said was going to be done; she cut the nail back and wrapped up my paw, then sent me home with antibiotics.

I think it is very important Humans know the best places to take their pets for medical care. I know a dog that just moved to Texas from near where I live. He was upset to leave the vet he knows and was afraid his Humans would not find a good veterinarian in Texas.

Everything worked out though because his Human talked to my Human Girl and she knew how to find an excellent Austin Veterinarian using a website angieslist.com - apparently there are real Humans there who give honest reviews.

It's My Birthday!

noreply@blogger.com (Blogging Queen) — Sat, 29 Oct 2011 19:52:00 +0000

Today I am six years old. I know this because the middle Little turned six not too long ago and I heard Human Girl say we were born the same year.

Chillaxin on a Sunday

noreply@blogger.com (Blogging Queen) — Sun, 16 Oct 2011 22:19:00 +0000

I was chillaxin in the sunlight today. It was a lazy Sunday here. Human Girl was on the hunt for discount scrub tops because I guess she knows someone who needs medical attire for their job. She kept mumbling about http://www.blueskyscrubs.com/ and how they have the best stuff at the best prices. I don't know - I mean, what do I know? I am a dog!

I do know that when I am at the 'vet' the people there are always in funny looking shirts and pants - I guess those are called scrubs? I really hope I do not need to go back to that place any time soon. I do have a small lump on my left side. I know Human Girl knows about it and I think she is planning on having it looked at, just not sure when. That scares me :(

My birthday is coming up, by the way! I will be six years old on October 29th! I hope The Littles get me something fun! I love those Littles, they make my days fun and very interesting!

More Cats to Deal With

noreply@blogger.com (Blogging Queen) — Sun, 16 Oct 2011 15:08:00 +0000

Can you believe this? TWO more cats are in this house I have four cats to deal with now, but these two, Thunder and Lightning, well, they are only kittens and kittens are crazy!

Well, with more animals, Human Girl now has to deal with more messes - and this place is completely carpeted (except for the bathroom and kitchen of course) so haha, I get to watch her struggle to keep things clean around here!

When we had bad weather, I think the Humans called it a 'hurricane' or something, Human girl was paranoid that water would flood the basement and she would have to file a flood damage insurance claim which she did not want to have to deal with. Luckily, that did not happen.

All she has to worry about now is carpet cleaning. She went online and found http://www.thesteamteam.com/ - a company that offers all sorts of floor cleaning services for all kinds of circumstances. I guess she figures if she can't handle some messes herself, at least she knows where to go for professional help!

Member of a Large Family

noreply@blogger.com (Blogging Queen) — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 19:31:00 +0000

This guest post from Rafael Hodge

Being a member of a large family has its pluses and minuses but one of the minuses is definitely all of the dissenting opinions. You would think that since I’m the father I’d get to make the ultimate decision but nope, last month when all the kids and my wife ganged up on me there was nothing I could do but relent and allow us to get cable at home!

I mean, I don’t have any real problem with cable but I just don’t want the kids to constantly be watching TV when they’re at home. And I don’t know why my wife was so excited about it since she’s got a fulltime job too but if she thinks it’s going to be okay for her to hole up in the bedroom watching one of those Housewives shows every night she’s got another think coming.

I don’t know where they all got these ideas – that our house needed more technology, but if it were up to me we’d still be acting like it was colonial times!

Now Birds?!

noreply@blogger.com (Blogging Queen) — Thu, 16 Jun 2011 15:31:00 +0000

Oh my gawd...we have had birds here for a few months and I still can't stand them! They are loud and annoying!

Toenail Ouchie

noreply@blogger.com (Blogging Queen) — Fri, 01 Apr 2011 18:03:00 +0000

I had to go to the vet last week because I broke a toenail on my front left paw. It broke down so far that Human Girl could not save it so it had to be cut back, through the quick and all. It really hurt!

I was in so much pain I spent most of the night crying so Human Girl got some good pain meds for me and then I felt better.

When we left the vet, there was a dog in the waiting room dressed up in personalized baby clothes! I am not kidding, this dog had a little outfit on with its name on it! My collar doesn't even have my name on it! I wish I would get some personalized baby gifts hahaa!

The Humans Are Back

noreply@blogger.com (Blogging Queen) — Fri, 22 Oct 2010 18:37:00 +0000

The Humans are finally back from some other world (Disney World?) and I am happy to have them back! I can't believe they actually went away though...I mean, this was the look I gave them before they left:

Would you leave if you got a look like that? Well, they did. Apparently they had a great time and Human Girl asked me to pass along the following information (in case some Humans read my blog):

"If you are thinking abut going to Disney but would love to have your very own personal Disney vacation planner, I can recommend one who is FREE!"

Visit: travelwiththemagic.com

Antibiotics That Treat Interdigital Cysts in Dogs

noreply@blogger.com (Blogging Queen) — Sun, 29 Aug 2010 12:29:00 +0000

As a dog owner, you may have noticed nodular lesions on your pet's paws. These lesions are typically located within the interdigital webs of a dog's paw.

According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, these lesions are interdigital furuncles, often incorrectly called "interdigital cysts," and are almost never cystic. They are in fact areas of inflamed tissue that form as a result of some irritant, such as a fungal or bacterial infection, a parasite or even an infected hair follicle.

Treating the underlying infection with antibiotics will clear up the infection.

Metronidazole
Metronidazole is an antibiotic used to kill bacterial organisms. It kills them by disrupting their DNA. However, metronidazole can fight only anaerobic bacteria and is commonly used in conjunction with other antibiotics to treat mixed-bacterial infections. Dogs tolerate metronidazole better if they take it with food. This antibiotic has a wide variety of uses; therefore the frequency of use, dosage and length of treatment all vary and are best determined by a veterinarian.

Doxycycline
Doxycycline is part of the tetracycline antibiotic family, which fights bacterial infections by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis. The most common side effects of doxycycline are nausea and vomiting, so administer this medication with food.

Cephalexin
Cephalexin kills bacteria by preventing them from forming an adequate protective cell wall. This medication is frequently used to treat skin infections in dogs. Side effects from cephalexin are vomiting and sometimes diarrhea. Dosage is commonly 10 to 15 mg per pound, given every eight to 12 hours orally; however, consult your veterinarian for the proper dosage for your dog. Treatment duration depends on the severity of the infection and how well the dog responds to treatment.

Author: Lisa Wampler
Article Source

Why Is There a Frog On My Head?

noreply@blogger.com (Blogging Queen) — Sun, 22 Aug 2010 20:46:00 +0000

Human Boy thinks he's funny or something. I was just minding my business when he decided it would be funny to put a toy frog on my head. Then Human Girl joined in to take a picture...is this animal abuse?

If I look depressed in the picture it's because I am. I heard Human Girl talking to her very own Disney vacation planner...yea, they're going back in October, without me.

Metronidazole Toxicity in Dogs

noreply@blogger.com (Angus) — Tue, 10 Aug 2010 13:16:00 +0000

Metronidazole, branded as Flagyl by the pharmaceutical company Pfizer, is an antibiotic prescribed to treat infections caused by anaerobic bacteria.

The most common use for metronidazole is for treating gastrointestinal problems in dogs.

In most cases, this medication works well and treatment is successful. However, some dogs may have an adverse reaction to the drug; in severe cases, a condition called metronidazole toxicity develops.

Uses
Veterinarians prescribe metronidazole for the treatment of different types of bowel problems in dogs. One of the most common of these problems is giardiasis, in which the small intestine is infected due to a microscopic organism (protozoa) called Giardia lamblia. Metronidazole treats inflammatory bowel disease and gastritis.

Signs and Symptoms
Metronidazole toxicity is uncommon and often associated with long-term use of the medication. However, toxic levels of this medication affect the brain and equilibrium. Signs of metronidazole toxicity include not eating, vomiting, staggering or difficulty walking, constant involuntary eye movements, lethargy and seizures.

Diagnosis
To determine if your dog has metronidazole toxicity, your veterinarian will perform a complete physical exam as well as note the dosage and length of time your dog has been on metronidazole. Blood tests to measure toxicity levels are rarely effective and therefore usually not done.

Treatment
Treatment depends on the severity of the toxicity. Your dog may need to be hospitalized and receive IV fluids and medication to alleviate vomiting. Bloodwork may need to be done to evaluate liver and kidney functions. The recovery period can be as long as one to two weeks. In very serious cases, death can result.

Prevention/Solution
Since metronidazole toxicity can occur if too much medication is given or from prolonged use, always follow your veterinarian's instructions on dosage. Have your dog checked by your veterinarian once the course of medication is finished.

Author: Lisa Wampler
Article Source

Going to Share Useful Information

noreply@blogger.com (Angus) — Tue, 10 Aug 2010 13:11:00 +0000

This blog is all about ME and it should be but Human Girl mentioned that since alot of animal lovers read this blog it should be not only fun to read but informative.

So, with that in mind, there will be useful articles which are dog related, posted here on a regular basis. In fact, one is coming up in a a moment! Stay tuned!

Baths Are So Not Fun

noreply@blogger.com (Blogging Queen) — Tue, 08 Jun 2010 18:14:00 +0000

Yea, well you knew THIS was coming, I mean, since I 'stink' and all...

Yea, I'm still pissed...