One of the most difficult parts of losing a family pet is breaking the news to the kids.  Choose a private place to tell the kids about the loss where they feel safe to express emotions.   Base the amount of details you share about the situation on their age and let their questions be your guide. Check out these tips for helping kids understand and cope with the loss of a furry family member.

Older pets – If you have an older pet who is dealing with ongoing health issues, plant the seed that animals age and will eventually die. If your pet is suffering, consider putting together a plan for euthanizing.  Managing how the pet dies can be comforting for kids.

Use words like “death” and “dying” to your kids.  Walk them through the process:

• The vet will give him a shot

• He will go to sleep

• His heart will stop beating

Avoid saying the pet just went to sleep.  Kids can be very literal and develop misconceptions about people going to sleep and not waking up.

Victim of an accident – If your pet died in an accident it is important to convey:

• The vet did everything he could to save the pet

• Due to his injuries, the pet would only suffer if he were kept alive

• Letting him go was the kindest thing that could be done for him

• The pet died without feeling pain or being scared

How to tell kids of different ages about the death of a pet.

2 – 3 year olds don’t have a lot of life experience to draw on to fully understand death.  Keep it simple. Tell them the pet died and won’t be coming home. Reassure them it wasn’t their fault.  They will copy your emotions and behavior. It is good to cry and model grieving for them, but keep things controlled.  Children at this age normally accept the death easily.

4-6 year olds usually understand the concept of death, but may not totally grasp its permanence.  They may feel that past anger toward the pet was responsible, so it’s important to tell them how the pet died.  Some kids may regress to having potty accidents, difficulty sleeping or lack of appetite.  Allow your child to discuss his feelings and reassure him it’s normal to grieve.  Encourage him to draw pictures, write stories and even hold a memorial service.

7-9 year olds understand that death is irreversible.  They are curious and may ask questions that appear morbid.  These types of questions are normal and should be addressed honestly.  They may manifest their grief through clingy behavior, aggression or even through problems at school. Reassure them they did not doing anything to contribute to the death of the pet.

10-11 year olds understand that the circle of life and death is a natural process.  They usually exhibit their grief in ways they have seen their parents deal with it in the past.  The death of a pet can spur memories of precious losses, allow your kids to talk through it.  Reassure them this is normal.

Teens generally will react in ways adults do.  If their friends and family are supportive of the loss they typically will do fine.  Hormones can play a part in how they handle grief, one day they may appear unaffected and the next they may feel wrought with grief.

Young adults may feel guilt for moving away to college or getting married.  They may take the loss harder than expected as they may feel bad for not being there to say goodbye.

Help them grieve – Don’t hide your own sadness about the loss of the pet.  Kids of all ages will go through a range of emotions after the death, from sadness to loneliness, and maybe even anger. Give them freedom to express their pain. Comfort them and validate their feelings.

Find special ways to remember their pet. Younger kids may find comfort in holding a memorial service.  Allow them to write a speech to share how special this pet was to them and share good memories.  Planting a tree or plant in their honor will keep the memory alive.

Buying a new pet – There is no right or wrong time to get a new pet.  Everyone deals with grief in their own way and it is important to complete the grieving process before bringing a new pet into the home.  The time will be right when you feel like your family can look forward to building a new relationship with a pet and not constantly look back at the previous relationship.

Things to consider when getting a new pet:

• Don’t think of the new pet as a “replacement” for your previous pet.  Think of him as a new pet with whom your family will build a new relationship.

• Don’t get a look-a-like pet.  Try a different sex, breed or one who has different markings.  Having a pet that looks similar may set the expectation they he will have the same personality.

• Involve the entire family when choosing the new pet.  Be sure everyone is ready to take on the responsibility.  Take into consideration other pets in the family and if they are ready to welcome a new member into the home.

Pets become a part of the family over time.  Kids grow deep attachments to their furry friends and letting go can take time.  Death and dying is never easy to discuss, be compassionate when breaking the news and allow them to control the dialogue.

About Jennifer Chung & Kinsights:

Jennifer Chung is a parenting expert and co-founder of Kinsights.com: part parent advice sharing community, part online health record. Kinsights provides parents with a safe place to seek answers to their questions while also helping them track their child’s health information. Organize your child’s growth and developmental milestones, immunizations, medications, allergies, and more.  Connect with Kinsights at www.kinsights.com to learn more and sign-up! You can also follow them on Facebook and Twitter (@kinsights).

The post How To Help Kids Cope With The Loss Of A Pet appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

To get started planning your pet party, consider these special party planning tips from Kimberly Schlegel Whitman, editor-at-large for Southern Living and author of “The Party Planner.”

Attire: One of the best ways to set the stage for a party is to ask guests to sport a festive look, and pets are no exception. For a classy party, use your invitation to ask your guests to dress up and remind them to bring their furry friends on their favorite fancy leash. You can find an array of dressy options at PetSmart, including bowties, sparkle dresses and the Santa Cat Cape, all will surely dress up the occasion.

Or go the other direction with a fun ugly sweater party. Invite your friends to dress the part and bring their pets in their silliest attire. The Bret Michaels PetsRock line of ugly sweaters – some even light up – are the perfect complement to your own gaudy attire.

Mealtime: Consider setting up a treat buffet for your four-legged friends. Fill large clear glass containers with different varieties of colorful treats.

Manners: Don’t expect your four-legged friends to share. Purchase a festive dog bowl for each guest, such as the Martha Stewart Pets Santa ceramic bowl from PetSmart, and fill each with water. Then keep them for next year’s holiday party, or give them away as party favors at the end of the event.

Music: Set the tone with holiday tunes, or go one step further with a little bit of research into the names and breeds of the pets loved by the composers or singers. Make a playlist of your favorites and type it up for your guests.

Decor: Snap a Polaroid photo of each of your guests in their festive attire as they arrive. Hang a clothesline made of ribbons near the entrance and clip the photos up with clothespins as they print for instant personalized decor that your guests will love.

Gifts: Don’t forget the party favors. Consider a small gift for each family to take home with a bone-shaped card attached that reads “Happy Howlidays!” Another option is a small faux tree decorated with bright dog toys and bones. (Be sure to use a faux tree; four-legged guests may be tempted to leave their mark on the real thing.) At the end of the event, you can ask your guests to choose a treat as their take-home favor.

For more holiday ideas and tips, visit your local PetSmart or www.PetSmart.com/holiday.

Source: PetSmart

The post Tips for a Pet-Friendly Holiday appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

It’s National Pet Month, and we couldn’t be more excited! Cats, dogs, frogs, turtles, iguanas, goldfish, and yes, even snakes, are honored this May.  While families are encouraged to spoil their pets this month, the aim is to also support pet adoption and increase public awareness of the benefits of owning a pet. 

But what about families who are just beginning the conversation about pet adoption and ownership?  Bringing a pet into the home is a huge responsibility for both parents and kids and should not be taken lightly.  According to the Humane Society of the United States, fully one-fifth of all dogs adopted from shelters are returned within a few months.  Those same dogs have a severely reduced chance of being adopted out again before their time in the shelter simply runs out. 

To reduce the chance of this happening in your family, Dr. Rachel Malamed, veterinarian and clinical animal behaviorist, suggests “starter pets” for inexperienced families, such as goldfish or geckos. These are low maintenance pets and are a solid choice for small children with little to no prior pet experience. 

Most families consider a puppy or kitten as a first pet option, however it’s best to weigh the pros and cons before making your final selection.  Young animals, particularly puppies, experience a socialization period in which a number of different stimuli, including children, influence the animal’s behavior. 

“Socialization must be done in a positive, gradual and controlled manner without overwhelming the pet. It should be fun, not forced,” says Dr. Malamed. 

Dr. Malamed also suggests parents teach their children about safety tips when introducing a new pet such as a dog into the family.  “Never leave a dog unattended with an infant or young child, even for a moment.  Avoid startling, teasing or disciplining the animal, and have them avoid hugging or kissing them.” Parents are urged to observe the animal’s body language as to detect any warning signs that the animal may be threatened or uncomfortable around young children. 

“Parents should not have the expectation that their children will take on primary care responsibilities and the goal of teaching responsibility should not be the sole reason for acquiring a pet,” Dr. Malamed states.

Although it’s never too early to teach children about safe animal interactions and responsibility, Dr. Malamed suggests parents speak with their veterinarian about any pet ownership concerns and consider pre-adoption counseling to determine the right animal based on lifestyle and degree of commitment. 

To learn more about Dr. Rachel Malamed, or for further pet ownership resources, visit http://www.behaviordogtor.com/  

Dr. Rachel Malamed is a veterinarian and a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists (ACVB), who currently runs a private practice in Los Angeles dedicated exclusively to clinical behavioral medicine. She received her veterinary degrees from the Ontario Veterinary College in 2005, and finished a three-year behavioral medicine residency at the University of California-Davis School of Veterinary Medicine and became board certified by the ACVB in 2010. Dr. Rachel is nationally recognized as a lecturer on veterinary behavioral issues and is a member of the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) Speaker’s Bureau. She has also co-authored a book chapter on canine aggression. Dr. Rachel opened her practice in May of 2012.

The post How Much Is That Doggie In The Window? appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

Are you raising an animal lover? If so, chances are they’ve already asked for a puppy, kitten, guanine pig, lizard, snake or bird of their own. Bringing home a pet is a big decision and shouldn’t be taken lightly – especially if you have young kids in your home. I’ve put together some tips and advice to help ensure your decision is the right one – whatever that may be.

Pick the Right Pet: There are lots of different pets to choose from. In our case, my wife and I already had two small dogs prior to having kids. Our dogs are old now, but when my toddlers began asking for other pets we decided on fish. It gave the kids extra responsibility because they had to help feed the fish and keep their bowl clean. This has worked quite well for my family, but your family might be completely different. It’s important to determine which pet is the right fit for your family, as all pets are different; they require different sorts of attention and lead different lives. Don’t rush into anything. Make certain your decision is thoroughly thought out as pets are a big commitment, and your new pet will be a part of your family for up to 20 years or more in some cases!

Get the Supplies: Once you determine which pet is right for your family the next thing you’ll need to do is pick up all of the necessary supplies. I suggest picking up all of the supplies before you bring your new pet home. Bring your child with you to pick out the supplies and let them help, so you can talk to them about the different things you’re buying and what they’re for. Do some research prior to heading out and ask questions while at your local pet store to ensure you get everything your new pet will need.

Involve Your Child: Involve your child in the process as much as possible and use every opportunity to reinforce responsibility while still allowing for excitement and anticipation. Read books, watch movies and television shows that discuss the importance of properly taking care of a pet and how kids can help do just that. Allow your child to help choose which type of pet and which type of breed you’ll be bringing home, and encourage them to do research in order to figure out what pet will be best for them and the family. If you have multiple children I suggest you hold a family meeting where each child can give their own input and express their excitement and concerns.

Be Responsible: Purchase your pet from a responsible breeder or adopt one from a local shelter if possible. If you need further education or help once your new pet comes home, sign up for classes; there are now classes on everything from safe snake handling to puppy basic obedience – you’re not alone! Whatever you do, make sure you’re fully prepared and ready for the new experience prior to bringing your new pet home!

Good luck,

Daddy Nickell

Robert Nickell, aka Daddy Nickell, father of 7, offers his “5 cents” worth of advice to expectant and new parents. Daddy Nickell is the founder of Daddyscrubs.com, delivery room duds and daddy gifts and apparel, and the DaddyScrubs blog where he covers topics about parenting all from a Dad’s perspective.

The post Bringing Home a Pet appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

The holidays can be a hectic time for everyone. While you’re busily gearing up for guests and parties, it’s important to remember your pet’s safety to ensure a festive and fun season is enjoyed by all.

From bright decorations to holiday house guests, it can be easy to overlook a few household dangers that may cause harm to your favorite companions. Here are a few things to keep in mind to keep your fuzzy friend safe and jolly this holiday:

12 Covered Cords: Cords used for holiday lights can be tempting to chew for many pets. Take time while decorating to tape down or cover cords to help prevent shocks, burns or other serious injuries.

11 Tempting Table Scraps: Rich scraps such as drippings, gravy and poultry skin can cause pets to suffer from upset stomach, diarrhea and even pancreatitis, which are not only terribly painful but can be fatal. Giving your dog poultry bones is also a bad idea as they can splinter and get stuck in your dog’s gastrointestinal tract.

10 Radiant Ribbons: Cats may be interested in playing with or eating tinsel and ribbons hanging from trees. These decorations should be placed high on the tree or not used at all because they can potentially cause serious intestinal damage if swallowed.

9 Dinging Doorbells: Consider putting your dog on a leash before people start arriving. Not only will you be able to control him if he begins to jump, you’ll also avoid him running out the door.

8 Tasty Treats: Keep human party snacks out of reach from animals and offer pet-friendly options instead, such as BLUE Santa Stew Holiday Feast and Santa Paws Snacks.

7 Quiet Corners: Provide pets with a quiet place to retreat so they can choose whether to come out and visit or keep to themselves when company arrives.

6 Patient Puppies: Tell your guests that your puppy is in training, and he needs to be polite before they say “hello” to him. Have your dog sit, using a treat if necessary, and once he’s sitting and calm let your guests pet him.

5 Perilous Plants: Mistletoe, holly berries and poinsettia plants are all poisonous for dogs, so skip them as decorations or make sure they are out of reach.

4 Guarded Glasses: Alcohol and pets do not mix. Place alcoholic drinks safely out of reach and patrol the party to be sure your guests do the same. Alcohol poisoning can be fatal.

3 Calming Coats: Using a ThunderShirt can calm a nervous dog by applying gentle pressure to the body. In addition to the traditional coat, there are now cold weather ThunderSweater and ThunderCoat options.

2 Nearby Numbers: Keep contact information for your veterinarian and the nearest emergency veterinary clinic readily available in case of a holiday mishap.

1 Towering Tree: Seasonal trees are sure to attract a pet’s attention and should be secured to keep from toppling over if a pet should try to climb them, use as a scratching post or simply bump into them.

For more information on how to keep pets safe during the holiday season, visit www.petsmart.com.

*Family Features

The post The 12 Days of Pet-Safe Holidays appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

(BPT) – Humans may sneeze and sniffle when trees and flowers start to bud in the spring, but many pet owners wouldn’t know if their pet was suffering from treatable allergy symptoms, which are likely to occur at the same time of year.

According to the Pet Allergy Worldwide Survey (PAWS) sponsored by Novartis Animal Health, 44 percent of pet owners are unaware that their pet can suffer from chronic seasonal allergies, just like people.

Atopic dermatitis is one of the most common allergic skin diseases in pets and is estimated to affect 10 to 15 percent of animals. It is also among the top 10 reasons that pet owners take their cats to their veterinarians. The disease is chronic, recurrent and requires lifelong management.

Online quiz sorts out common symptoms

According to the PAWS survey, 80 percent of pet owners would like to know more about how to recognize and treat pet allergies. To determine whether a pet’s symptoms warrant a veterinary visit and possible treatment to relieve the symptoms, pet owners can take a simple online quiz developed by veterinarians at www.itchfreepet.com.

Signs of allergic dermatitis in pets may vary, but common symptoms include red, scaly patches, persistent itching and scratching, and biting or licking of paws. Hair loss and sores are also common, as a result of the itching and scratching, although the pattern for this differs between dogs and cats. By taking this online quiz, pet owners can determine if they should bring their pet to the veterinarian for testing.

What allergens cause these symptoms?

Just like people, dogs and cats can suffer from seasonal allergies to pollen, as well as year-round allergies to dust mites and mold spores. Although the underlying mechanism of the allergic response is similar to what people experience, the symptoms are quite different. People with allergies sneeze, cough and suffer from runny nose, eye irritation and sinus problems. Allergic cats and dogs, by contrast, itch, scratch and lose their hair.

In the past, treatments were limited to creams and steroids, which either caused limited effectiveness or less-than-desirable side effects when used long-term. Today, while there is no cure for atopic dermatitis, there are more options to help animals find relief. Pet owners can ask their veterinarians about the drug that treats the problem from the inside out, at the pet’s cellular level. This treatment, ATOPICA(R) (Cyclosporine capsules, USP) MODIFIED for dogs or ATOPICA (cyclosporine oral solution, USP) MODIFIED for Cats, can reduce the itching and restore comfort to pets. Getting help for an allergic pet may be just one veterinary visit away.

“Allergic dermatitis for some pets means scratching or licking more frequently than what is considered normal, and for other pets it can mean sores and furless patches on the skin or painful paw biting that gets in the way of exercise, sleep and overall comfort for the animal,” says Dr. Keith Hnilica, DVM, MS, MBA, DACVD. “It is important to take your pet to see the veterinarian if you suspect your pet may have allergies, to determine whether it is a candidate for a long-term, comforting solution to this painful condition.”

Visit www.itchfreepet.com to learn more. For specific information on ATOPICA in the U.S., please visit www.us.atopica.com.

Editor’s Note: 

Important Information about ATOPICA (Cyclopsporine capsules, USP) MODIFIED 
As with all drugs, side effects may occur. In a field study, the most common side effects were gastrointestinal signs. Gingival hyperplasia and papillomas may also occur during the initial dosing phase. ATOPICA is a systemic immunosuppressant that may increase the susceptibility to infection. ATOPICA is not for use in reproducing dogs or dogs with a history of neoplasia. Please visit http://www.us.atopica.com/pdf/product-insert.pdf for full prescribing information. 

Important Information about ATOPICA for Cats (cyclosporine oral solution, USP) MODIFIED 
May cause some side effects in individual cats. The most common side effect in clinical trials was vomiting, which in most cases resolved with continued use. Adverse reactions occurred most often with daily dosing. Persistent, progressive weight loss can result in hepatic lipidosis, so monitoring of body weight is recommended during treatment. If you think that your cat is losing weight, you should contact your veterinarian. ATOPICA for Cats may increase susceptibility to infection and to the development of tumors. Please visit http://www.us.atopica.com/pdf/atopica-for-cats-insert.pdf for full prescribing information.

The post Scratching the right itch: Does your pet have seasonal allergies? appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.