Pet Bucket Blog

We all like to think that our cat's are true individuals, with a personality all of their own. While this is mostly true, could it be possible that your cat's personality is affected by the colour of their coat? From one point of view it is quite logical since the genetics that control biochemical substances like dopamine (an influencer of behaviour) also moulds the colour and pattern of your feline's fur, therefore creating certain behaviours amongst various breeds of cats. On the other hand, we humans are very fond of stereotypes and quite often cling on to evidence that helps perpetuate those stereotypes further! There have been numerous studies performed on this very subject, and mostly bring back inconclusive evidence. So why do we still debate it? The truth is, would-be cat adopters are often initially drawn to the colour of a cat's coat, not only because of how aesthetically pleasing it may be but because they feel it might give them a clue as to what sort of cat they might be taking home. This is maybe why some types are snapped up from shelters quickly (ginger) while others (black and brown) are sadly less likely to be adopted and end up being euthanised. If you or someone you know is thinking of adopting a cat, encourage them to spend time with all the cats that are available and choose the cat that has the most agreeable temperament and wonderful personality, not the prettiest coat. Now the real test! Does your cat match these (sometimes conflicting) personality traits? Black   Image credit Loyal Suspicious Good-natured Stubborn Friendly Sociable Aloof White   Image credit Calm Peaceful Friendly Timid Aloof Shy Lazy Black & White   Image credit Placid Even-tempered Friendly Blue/Grey   Image credit Gentle Quiet Affectionate Calm Peaceful Ginger   Image credit Polite Shifty Unpredictable Laid back Fiery temper Friendly Tortoiseshell   Image credit Maternal Quick-witted Naughty Temperamental Aloof Intolerant Tabby    Image credit Good-natured Home bodies Friendly

Our canine companions depend on us for much of their entertainment. Even when you're not around, there are several ways to keep your dog entertained. Whether you're at work or runnning errands, here are some ideas to keep your dog happy and your house intact: 1. Designate a doggy den Pick an area of your home where you think your dog will feel safe and comfortable while you're away. This is the perfect place to keep their toys, crate, treats, and self-filling water bowl. Your dog will spend most of their alone time sleeping, so it's important to provide your dog with a comfy bed! 2. Toys! Food Dispensing Toys: Keep your dog’s belly full with toys that reward them with a treat after completing the task of getting it out. Many of these toys, including the KONG brand, come with different levels of difficulty for dogs with varyin  levels of intelligence. Alternatively, freezing your dog’s wet food and kibble inside of a toy for use the next day is another great way to keep them occupied for long periods of time.   image credit    Indestructible Chew Toys: Toys such as bones may become choking hazards to dogs when broken apart after excessive chewing, but indestructible toys like rope knots are a safer alternative. In addition to keeping your dog happy, all the chewing will help your dog’s oral hygiene.   image credit    Puzzle Toys: Dogs that are alone for extended periods of the day need to be stimulated to keep them sharp. These types of toys give your dog the opportunity to problem solve and use different parts of their brains.   image credit 3. Hire a dog walker   image credit   If affordable, hiring a dog walker may be exactly what your dog needs. Dog walkers can take your dog on a range of walks, from a quick lap around the block to a full hour long hike. Your dog walker should be trustworthy, reliable, and someone that both you and your dog get along with.  4. TV & Music Leaving the TV on can be a great way to keep your dog engaged. DogTV, a new television channel created specifically for your dog, shows 3-6 minute segments of everyday dog activities ranging from riding in a car to belly rubs. If you don't have DirectTV, there's always Animal Planet!   Research has shown that classical music has calming qualities for our furbabies. Consider creating a playlist with Bach, Beethoven, and Mozart and leaving it on for your dog when you leave the house.  image credit 5. Dog playdates   image credit A great way to socialize your dog and keep them entertained is with a friend. Ask your friends and neighbors who have dogs if they would be willing to take your dog in for a few hours during the day, so they can have fun with another dog under supervision. 6. Doggy daycare   image credit Although a more expensive option, daycare is great for people who are not comfortable leaving their dogs home alone all day. There are many different types of daycare inclduing half-day and full-day options, and the prices vary depending on the provider. To learn more check out our article here. Feature image credit  

Losing your cat can be a stressful and upsetting event for both you and your pet. The two most important things you need to keep in mind are: stay calm and act quickly. 1. Search indoors Unless you witnessed your cat making a run for it, there’s always a possibility your kitty is hiding somewhere inside. Before assuming your cat has run away, search your home thoroughly, armed with tasty and smelly treats. 2. Think like a cat Where does your cat normally go? Do they have favorite bushes or hiding spots? Typically, a panicked cat will stay close to your home instead of venturing out into the open. Indoor cats will either slink left or right and follow along the edge of your house. Following the edge of your home, keep an eye out for close by hiding spots such as decks, garages, and sheds. 3. Don’t be shy You don’t want to scare anyone by creeping around their property so make sure you ask your neighbors first. Knock on your neighbor’s doors and ask pedestrians in the street if they have seen your cat. It’s important that you bring with you a photo either on your phone or printed out. 4. Make a “lost cat” poster The poster should include your cat’s name, physical description, when and where they were last seen, and contact information. To be safe, it’s better not to list your name, address, or the amount of reward if you plan on offering one. Make sure the poster is large enough that a passing vehicle or pedestrian will see it. The photo is the most important, and one in color is best. 5. Spread the word Now that you’ve made fliers you should post them in popular areas in your community and on telephone poles at busy intersections. Hand them out to family, friends, and most importantly to your vet and local shelters. Also share your poster online since social media is the best way to reach a large amount of people. There are also websites and pages on Craigslist that serve as a database of lost and found pets. Note: If you’ve moved recently you should extend your search to your old neighborhood. 6. Set a trap It’s a good idea to leave food and water outside your door and see if it vanishes. You can then set up a baby monitor or wildlife camera that will hopefully detect your cat. Often cats will wait until night to emerge from their hiding places. See if anywhere local is willing to lend a humane trap, such as Animal Control or a local Trap-Neuter-Return Rescue. image credit

If you are expecting a baby, congratulations! The next nine months are going to be full of discovery and lots of preparation. In between stocking up on diapers and decorating the baby's nursery - remember to turn your attention to your first baby, your fur-baby, because just like you, the addition of a baby into their life is a massive change. The thought of introducing a newborn to a dog, can induce anxiety in any expecting parent (not to mention family and friends), but it doesn't have to be a terrifying experience. So don't despair - you won't have to relegate your dog to the backyard for all of eternity, nor do you have to give them up for adoption (like some people unfortunately do) - with lots of careful planning and plenty of dedication, your dog and new baby could be set to become the best of pals. Before baby is born: Don't be surprised if you notice that your dog has already picked up on the fact that you're expecting. Dogs are incredibly intuitive and will be able to sense that change is occurring. However, just because they have sensed something, doesn't mean they know how to behave. The sooner you start training and teaching your dog how to learn to live with a new baby, the better. Make a designated space in your home, just for your dog, such as the laundry or a crate. Make sure it's stocked with everything they need and enjoy: food, water, toys and a blanket. This will now be their special place where they can escape to when they need to calm down or need a break from baby. At the same time, get your pal used to not have full access to all parts of your home. Create a dog-free zone and separate it by using gates - the sooner you do this the sooner they will get used to not being able to go into those rooms. Make sure your dog's obedience is up to scratch by teaching them to sit, and particularly, not to jump up on you, the furniture and anyone who will be holding the baby. Set up furniture for the baby as early as you can so your dog becomes used to it and accepts it as part of the home. If possible, borrow a friends baby to take out walking in a stroller with your dog, so they get used to the routine. Consider what your new routine might be like once baby is born. Will you still be taking your dog for its daily walk, do you plan to take afternoon naps, will your dog be fed at different or at random times? Slowly start transitioning into your new routine so your dog doesn't get a rude shock once baby is home. If you will no longer be walking your dog, start getting the new walker to take your dog out a couple of times a week so they become used to their new walking companion. Invest in a baby noises CD that you can start playing to help get your dog used the sound of babies crying. Start carrying around a pretend bundle that mimics a real baby all wrapped up in blankets. Carry it around, put it in the crib, rest it on your knee. It's another useful way to get your dog almost bored of all of these new changes so by the time your real baby comes home they won't be particularly fazed. Teach your dog that some toys are not to be touched. This is where obedience training comes in handy. Teach them to give up toys on command by using 'leave it.' Remember to never chase your dog when they have a baby toy in possession because that will signal a game to them. Always reward with treats when they do as commanded. A big no-no is lavishing your dog with lots and lots of extra attention before the baby arrives - while intentions are good it will only upset your dog further when the baby does come home. A better approach is to remember to schedule in lots of play time and cuddle sessions. Before you bring baby home: At this point, pretty much all of your preparation should be done and your dog is calm and content with all the changes that have taken place. Once the baby is born, but before it comes home, arrange for your partner, family member or friend to take an item of clothing that has been worn by the baby and bring it to your dog. Allow your dog to sniff it, but only at a distance whilst the item is being held. They become used to the baby's scent and also learn that it (the baby) does not belong to them and that they will have to follow your rules around it. After baby has come home: It's so exciting and scary bringing a new baby home for the first time. It's also the first time your dog will be meeting your little bundle of joy - so this first experience needs to count. The basic aim of all of this is positive association (and lifelong friendship!) Before introducing baby and pooch, take your dog for a long walk - it will use up some of their energy. Before coming back into your home make sure your dog is completely calm. Also make sure everyone else present is calm as dogs easily pick up on any uneasy feelings. Whoever is holding the dog should have them on a short lead as you enter the room that the baby is in. Whoever is holding the baby should be calmly sat down with the baby on their knee and some dog treats close by. Upon entering the room, your dog will instantly pick up on the new scent and if you've done your preparation, will recognise it. Allow the dog to calmly approach and sniff near the baby - generally not too close the first time round. Once they are satisfied they'll walk away. If your pooch gets a little too close for comfort it's ok to use your hands to keep your dog's nose away. Remember to give lots of praise and treats. At each subsequent encounter, allow your dog to come a little bit closer until they are completely used to and unfazed by your baby. What happens next? If you've done all of this preparation then chances are your two babies will grow very fond of each other. As your baby grows you will have to teach them to respect your dog and not to bother them by yanking their tail or pulling their ears. The toddler years will be quite challenging so it may also be worth your while teaching your dog to get used to being handled by a baby, because it's inevitable that once your child reaches their discovery age they'll want to discover your dog like they never have before! And never, NEVER leave your dog and child unsupervised. Feature image credit  

It's not always easy, being in charge of raising a dog. You are responsible for the well-being of another life form, but unlike a human child, this one will never learn to speak a language you can understand. This makes it difficult for dog owners to clearly identify those points in life when their best friend is in distress.   One of the clearest signs of distress in a dog is diarrhea. The presence of loose stools might mean nothing, but it can also be a sign of distress or disease in your dog. Sometimes being a dog owner means you have to do some tasks that aren't very glamorous, and paying attention to diarrhea is one of them.   What diarrhea means Diarrhea in your dog can mean a lot of different things. It can be as simple as short term digestion issues related to food, or as complex as intestinal diseases or mental distress. More often than not, your dog will suffer a bout of diarrhea as a result of dietary alterations. While canines have survived for thousands of years eating raw meats and other foods, modern dogs are more accustomed to dry dog foods.   When your dog gets into the leftovers, is fed from the table, or rips into the garbage bag in search of food, those foods can upset their GI tract. A sudden change in the dry food you are feeding your dog can also cause it to suffer from diarrhea as its body adjusts to the change in food.   Other causes of diarrhea include viral and bacterial infections in the digestive tract, intestinal worms, and even adverse reactions to medications. It is not unheard of for medications that treat heartworm and intestinal worms to cause diarrhea in a dog. This side effect is often temporary, but if it persists you should consult your vet about switching medications.   A particularly tricky cause of diarrhea is giardia. This parasite in your dog's system can cause diarrhea to become intermittent. Your dog may suffer from diarrhea for two or three days, and then the condition will clear up. Eventually, the diarrhea returns and raises fresh concerns about your dog's health. Giardia is tough to catch because the intermittent cycle can take place over a few days or stretch out over a month. The best way to catch giardia is by keeping a close eye on how long this on-off cycle persists.   Treating diarrhea If your dog is otherwise healthy and exhibiting normal behavior during a bout of diarrhea, the best course of action you can follow is a temporary diet alteration. Once you notice diarrhea, consider withholding food (but not water) for 12 hours. After the 12 hours have passed, offer your dog a bland, fat-free diet. One option is to cook up some ground turkey meat and serve it to your pooch with a baked sweet potato.   Feed your dog a 50-50 combo of the two in its dish three times each day. Keep the meals small and continue the bland diet for three days. This should help your dog's system adjust and get back to normal.   If, however, you don't notice a change with a bland diet following a three-day period, it is time to take your dog to the veterinarian's office for a check-up. It isn't difficult to help your dog overcome diarrhea, but it will take some vigilance and a little extra work. Feature image credit

There are a lot of details about your cat's health that you probably notice on a daily basis. If your kitty suddenly has trouble using the litter box, for instance, or starts to develop an obvious eye infection, you are likely to head to the vet pretty quickly. Unfortunately, many cat owners don't spend enough time thinking about their pet's teeth. Dental problems like gum disease and tooth decay can pose a major threat to your feline friend. Initial symptoms might seem minor, such as bad breath, lethargy, or decreased appetite. If left untreated however, dental issues could increase your kitty's risk for serious complications such as sinus infections, autoimmune disease, heart failure, and cancer.   Rather than exposing your furry pal to these dangerous risks, it's a good idea for all owners to learn how to brush their cat's teeth. Expert opinions vary, but some vets recommend that you give your cat a little dental attention as often as once a week or even every day. Most cat owners who have never tried brushing their kitty's teeth before avoid the practice out of fear of hurting their pet or getting hurt themselves. As long as you ease your cat into the process, you're likely to find that it's probably not as difficult as you might think.   The first step when it comes to getting your kitty comfortable with the idea of brushing is to get the cat used to you putting your fingers in its mouth. Begin by dipping your finger into a treat that your cat loves (tuna juice or chicken broth are great options), and then have kitty lick the liquid off your finger. Once you've repeated this process several times, try moving on to rubbing your cat's teeth with a piece of broth-soaked gauze.   Getting kitties used to the pressure and texture of a toothbrush is often one of the most difficult steps, so you should try getting your cat to like the brush by putting treats on top of it and letting your kitty lick them off. Next, replace the treats with some cat toothpaste (these products have a meaty flavor that will appeal to your cat). Once you have accomplished all these steps and your cat is less afraid of all the elements of brushing, it's time to put everything together and actually clean the teeth.   You should err on the side of being too gentle at first until you know how your furry friend is going to react to brushing. Simply scrub the front and back of each tooth, much like you do as part of your own daily routine. Remember that the cat's back teeth are the ones that are likely to need the most attention, so you should start with them. Praise your cat throughout the entire process, and be ready at the end to reward your pet with a tasty treat.   Like many other cat care procedures, it will probably take a while before your pet gets used to having its teeth brushed. As long as you are patient and don't give up, you can eventually train your cat to behave well during this process-and maybe even enjoy it. Feature image credit

As dog owners, we always want what's best for our loving pooches and their diet is no exception. Like humans, a healthy and balanced diet is crucial to a dog's health to promote optimum physicality and mental awareness. An enriching diet also keeps coats shiny, fights diseases, prevents obesity, keeps insides happy and ultimately sets your pal up for a long and healthy life. But let's face it, choosing dog food can be a minefield of confusion. Fortunately, it doesn't have to be... Firstly, it's important to keep in the back of your mind that dog food companies use clever marketing tools to appeal to you, a human, who is responsible for buying your dog's food - so while many labels and packages are genuine about the contents of food, others like to use clever language and imagery to appeal to you - and your hip pocket. Top tip: Rather than reading the front of your dog's food packaging, read the label to get a full breakdown of ingredients - this is a sure-fire way to make sure what you're buying is appropriate and good for your dog. While cost is an important factor for pet owners when it comes to choosing food, and of course, everyone likes to cut costs where they can, choosing the cheapest dog food going generally is going to cost your more in the long run. Cheap foods are often filled with lower quality ingredients, which means nutritionally, your pet is missing out. In the long run their health will not be as good as it could and you could face an ever-mounting bill with your local vet. Top tip: Studying what ingredients are best and worst for your dog before you go out shopping is the best way to tackle the dog food aisle. Generally, the cheaper the food the lower the quality, but that doesn't mean the most expensive option is right for your dog. Remember, it's all about the ingredients! Generally speaking, you won't find good quality dog food in the supermarket aisle. Rather, pet stores or specialty pet food shops will stock a better range and better quality products. You're also likely to come across knowledgeable staff who can also help you to decide. Overall, you're looking for a good mix of protein, carbs, fats and vitamins and minerals. Top tip: Nutritionally, dogs require different things at different stages of their life, so do plenty of research to find out what will be best for your dog. Are they a puppy or a mature dog? What size or type of dog are they? Do they have any allergies or intollerances? Dog owners sometimes get confused as to whether they should be feeding their dog dry or canned food varieties. The answer is...there is no answer. Both varieties have pros and cons and some will suit some dogs over others. The choice comes down to you weighing up what suits your dog, your budget, lifestyle and general preferences.

When out walking your dog on a sunny day the inevitable is bound to happen – poop clean up duty. It is not something anyone enjoys particularly, though is generally accepted as a necessary evil.   But is it ever okay just to…leave things lie? Can you ever walk away pretending nothing happened?   Well, not really. One gram of dog waste contains up to 23 million fecal coliform bacteria. This variety of bacteria is known to cause cramps, diarrhoea, intestinal illness and serious kidney disorders in people – not the sort of thing that should just be left lying in a park!    Image credit Similarly, dog waste can also contain worm larvae. In the case of roundworm larvae, if a child or adult ingests it, it can travel through the body spreading disease to the brain, lungs, liver, heart and eyes. Long after the waste has disintegrated, parasite eggs can remain, creating the chance of infection with anyone that comes into contact with the soil.   Very far from fertilizer – the product of herbivorous animals – dog waste is toxic to grass, destroying the plant life and the environment. The Environmental Protection Agency categorises dog waste in the same category as herbicides, insecticides, oil, grease, toxic chemicals and acid drainage from abandoned mines due to the detrimental effects it can cause on flora and fauna.    Image Credit For example, the decay of dog waste creates nutrients for organisms such as weeds and algae which can cause blooms which block light from penetrating the water’s surface. As a result of this, oxygen levels in the water decrease, asphyxiating fish, underwater plants and other creatures.   Therefore, even if the location you are in seems relatively unpopulated, it is far better to scoop and bin.    Image Credit  Dog owners who fail to pick up droppings can also influence ‘dog bans’ from parks, due to fears of contamination from other sections of the public, spoiling enjoyment for the whole of the dog owning community. In some areas leaving dog droppings in public spaces is not just subject to social censure, but is in fact illegal and subject to strict penalisation.   The verdict is in: always pick up your dog’s leavings, for your sake, the community’s, and the planet’s!  

An aggressive dog can be frightening - not just to other dogs, but to people as well. There’s also a risk that the dog will seriously injure themselves or others if a fight occurs. Ultimately, we are responsible for our dog’s behaviour so it’s vital that any aggressive behaviour is stopped.   There are many reasons why dog's display aggression. Usually it arises from a perception that their territory or ‘pack’ (including their human family and offspring) is under threat. Also, agression may arise if your dog feels scared, if they are exhibiting instinctual predatory behaviour or feels possessive of a toy, object or food.   Both male and female dogs can be violent. Dogs that are not desexed or neutered tend to be more competitive and therefore inclined to fight.   Socialisation You’ve probably heard or read it hundreds of times but we’ll say it again - socialising your dog is so important. It is the best way to ensure they lead happy, relaxed lives and mix well with children, adults and other dogs. Often aggression is the result of poor socialisation and insecurity when placed in new situations or with unfamilar people and dogs.     You should begin socialisation early, ideally once your puppy is three weeks of age. Puppies need to spend time with well-socialised, calm dogs in order to learn communication skills, confidence, positive behaviours and how to play appropriately. Obedience classes and doggy day care are fantastic opportunities for your puppy to meet and socialise with others.   Friend or foe When dogs play, they will often wrestle, nip, growl and bark at one another. If it is genuine play and not something more dangerous, the dogs will continually go back to one another and will appear relaxed, happy and with tails wagging.    Identify aggressive behaviour You need to be able to recognise signs of aggression so that you can act before your dog has the chance to attack a person or another dog. Typical body language that displays fear and hostility includes:   Dog freezes and becomes stiff Dog adopts a dominant posture, often with their weight on their front legs so as to appear larger and be ready to lunge Looking directly at the other dogs eyes Ears up and forward A low-sounding bark Growling, showing teeth and snarling Lunging forward or charging Snapping   Stopping aggressive behaviour If you notice your dog exhibiting signs of aggression you should immediately discourage them with a quick tug on their lead and use a firm but calm voice command. By commanding them to sit and stay indicates that there is no danger and encourages them to relax. You should also remain calm as dogs sense your stress and nervousness.   If your dog is excitable or charges at dogs or people when on walks, keep their lead short so that you can keep them close and have control.   Remember, dogs respond best to positive reinforcement so reward and praise your dog when they behave correctly.   When fighting occurs If your dog is involved in a fight, never grab the dogs by the collar or reach in near their mouths to pull them apart. They may redirect their aggression towards you as a reflex action when in their heightened state of fear, threat or hostility.    Instead, try to attract their attention or interrupt the fight with a loud noise such as a whistle, clap or air horn. Use a hose or bucket to throw water on the dogs or spray a deterrent such as citronella at their snouts.   If these techniques do not work, you and the other owner should simultaneously separate the dogs by holding the dog’s back legs under the hips and lifting their legs off the ground. Move backwards and when at a safe distance, manoeuvre the dogs so that they are no longer facing each other.   Need help? If nothing you do seems to be working then seek help from a professional trainer or dog behaviourist. Also, consult your vet as aggression and irritability could be caused by an underlying health condition or a side-effect from medication that is influencing your dog’s mood, comfort or lucidity.   Image credit Feature image credit

Vegetarians can sometimes be unhappy about feeding their cats meat due to their own dietary choices. Ethical concerns about the slaughter of animals for consumption may prompt them to ask: can my cat go meat free too?   The question is not a simple one to answer. Much controversy exists over whether or not cats can be safely fed a veggie diet. Their have been numerous concerns raised that in worrying for the welfare of animals used for consumption that the welfare of felines might be in fact compromised by enforced vegetarianism.   Image Credit   The fact is: cats are naturally carnivorous. Humans and dogs are omnivores, meaning their diet encompasses both meat and plant matter, and gives them greater flexibility in what they can be fed with consideration to the nutritional value of different food products. Cats on the other hand have evolved to be meat eaters, with the exception of the ingestion of grass (which is to improve digestive tract conditions not provide nutrients). Nevertheless, there are vegan and vegetarian diets that are on the market for cats and are recommended by certain communities as a viable option. It may be possible, with extensive supplementation, for a cat to survive on these products – not all have been rigourously scientifically tested – however it is important to remember dangers can exist for cats who miss out on important elements that derive from meat.     Image Credit   Cats missing out on the required dose of taurine, niacin, arachidonic acid, vitamins A, B1 and B2 and protein can develop all sorts of ailments including but not limited to skin and coat issues, blood clotting disorders, immune systems failures, weight loss, interrupted growth, diarrhea and neurologic disorders.   A study by the American Veterinary Medical Association found in 2004 two vegan cat foods sold as complete diets as having significant deficiencies.  Recently in Melbourne, a kitten almost died after being fed a diet of potatoes, milk, rice, and pasta. It was nursed back to health by the hospital with a treatment of intravenous fluids and a new food regime including meat products: a warning to be very careful of what you do and do not feed your cat.    Critics of cat vegetarianism and veganism question why do owners insist on feeding their cat this type of diet, when many other vegetable loving animals can be brought home to join the family.   The subject is complex and the choice of your diet, regardless of which viewpoint you lean towards, should be carefully considered and based on extensive research and consultation with animal health professionals.    Feature Image Credit