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Veterinary Pet Insurance Poll Reveals Insured Pets Visiting the Doctor More Than People

96 Percent of Respondents Take Pets to Veterinarian at Least Once a Year

BREA, Calif., Nov. 29 /PRNewswire/ -- Veterinary Pet Insurance (VPI), the nation's oldest and largest provider of pet health insurance, recently polled nearly 4,000 policyholders and Web site visitors to find out how often they proactively take their pets to the veterinarian. Approximately 96 percent of those who participated in the poll visit the veterinarian for routine care at least once a year and 43 percent of those make multiple visits over the course of a year. In comparison, a 2005 survey by the Center for Disease Control found that 83 percent of adults in the United States had contact with a health care professional within the year.

"This data further reinforces the fact that pets are becoming integral family members," said Dr. Carol McConnell, vice president and chief veterinary medical officer for VPI. "More people are becoming attuned to the medical needs of their pets, which include everything from emergency care to preventive procedures such as vaccinations and physical exams."

In 2006, wellcare visits for physical exams were among the most common preventive care claims VPI received. A wellcare visit often consists of a physical exam and a discussion about a pet's food and water intake, nutrition, behavior, weight assessment, and activity levels, which all provide the veterinarian clues about the presence of health problems. Physical exams include an assessment of a pet's general appearance and a systematic approach to all of the anatomical systems.

The age of the pet, as well as history and physical exam findings, will determine if more specific tests are needed such as blood analysis, a urinalysis, radiographs, specific tests for the eyes, or needle testing for lumps in the skin. Physical examinations aid in early detection and treatment of serious health conditions, potentially prolonging the life of a pet and reducing treatment costs. Depending on the age of the pet, pet owners should take their dog or cat in for wellcare visits once to twice a year.

"In the past, many pet owners viewed a veterinarian's primary role as healing sick pets," said McConnell. "Today, more pet owners are taking advantage of the veterinarian's ability to keep their pet healthy with regular physical examinations, vaccinations and other wellcare procedures."

While VPI's comprehensive medical policies defray costs for the testing and treatment of multiple accidents and illnesses, nearly 75 percent of policyholders also enroll in a Pet WellCare Protection(SM) plan to help cover a portion of the cost of routine veterinary care. VPI's Pet WellCare Protection plans reimburse pet owners for physical exams, vaccinations, flea and/or heartworm preventive, microchipping, and diagnostics. Some plans also reimburse for dental cleaning or spay/neuter.

"Visting the veterinarian should not be exclusively for emergencies and neither should pet insurance," said McConnell. "Planning ahead with regular physical examinations and medical coverage in place to help pay for those examinations is a sensible strategy. People go to great lengths for their pets, and VPI is here to help. Our goal is to protect and preserve the bond that people have with their pets."

About Veterinary Pet Insurance

Veterinary Pet Insurance Co./DVM Insurance Agency is the nation's oldest and largest pet health insurance company. Providing pet owners with peace of mind since 1982, the company is committed to being the trusted choice of America's pet lovers and an advocate of pet health education. VPI Pet Insurance plans cover dogs, cats, birds and exotic pets for multiple medical problems and conditions relating to accidents, illnesses and injuries. Optional Pet WellCare ProtectionSM for routine care is also available.

Medical plans are available in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. More than 1,600 companies nationwide offer VPI Pet Insurance as an employee benefit. Policies are underwritten by Veterinary Pet Insurance Company in California and in all other states by National Casualty Company, an A+15 rated company in Madison, Wisconsin. For more information about VPI Pet Insurance, call 800-USA-PETS (800-872-7387) or visit petinsurance.com.

Source: Veterinary Pet Insurance

Web site: http://www.petinsurance.com/

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Protect Pets From Winter's Hidden Dangers

Pet Owners Urged to Act Now in Winterizing their Animals and Homes

SACRAMENTO, Calif., Nov. 29 /PRNewswire/ -- Many people think animals' winter coats are enough to shelter them from the cold. But according to the California Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA), pets can be extremely vulnerable in the winter months if they are exposed to cold weather and potentially dangerous elements found in and around their owners' homes. Additionally, as pets vary in size, age, and health status, you need to discuss your pet's individual needs with your veterinarian.

"Cars, antifreeze, heaters and wood stoves can be death traps for animals if pet owners are not careful," said Dr. Jeff Smith, president of the CVMA. "Even inside a house or apartment, though it may be warmer, dangers are present. Anything with an electrical cord or heat source, which may provide extra warmth for humans in the winter, may be dangerous to the average pet."

The CVMA asks that pet owners heed these warnings when it comes to protecting their pets from a cold environment:

  o  Keep antifreeze away from pets.  Dogs and cats like the sweet taste and
     smell of the chemical, but ethanol glycol-based antifreeze is highly
     poisonous.  That's why some states have required that a bittering agent
     be added to antifreeze to make it taste unpleasant.
  o  Bang on your car before starting the engine.  Outdoor cats often will
     curl up into the wheel wells and engine compartments for warmth and
     they could get trapped.
  o  Don't play near frozen lakes, rivers or ponds.  Your dog could slip in
     and drown.
  o  Protect animals from wood stoves and portable heaters. Cats can jump on
     top of them, causing burns to their paws.
  o  Keep nails clipped.  Shorter nails allow for better traction on icy
     surfaces.
  o  Provide plenty of fresh water.  Your dog is just as likely to get
     dehydrated in the winter as in the summer.  Snow is not a substitute
     for water.
  o  Wind chill makes days colder than what the actual temperature might
     show so you should limit your pet's time outdoors.

Veterinarians say if at all possible, it's best to keep pets inside and ensure they stay warm, especially at night. If an animal must be kept outside during the day, make sure it is given proper shelter, food and water. That means:

  o  Providing a doghouse large enough to allow the dog to sit and lie down
     comfortably, but small enough to hold its body heat.
  o  Positioning the doghouse out of the wind or placing it on a raised
     platform for warmth.
  o  Covering the floor with cedar shavings or straw and changing the
     bedding regularly.  Blankets are not recommended as they will just get
     wet and freeze.
  o  Giving outdoor pets more food because they will need more energy to
     stay warm.
  o  Using plastic food and water bowls rather than metal to keep containers
     from freezing.  Darker colors are recommended as they will absorb more
     heat.

The CVMA cautions that in the wintertime, pets can be more susceptible to illness. Frostbite can be a hazard especially for animals not offered proper housing. The tips of the ears, tail and feet are particularly susceptible. If a pet owner suspects his or her pet has been exposed to a poisonous substance or is experiencing a sudden drop in body temperature, call a veterinarian immediately. Winter can pose special risks to many household animals and consulting your veterinarian about a pet's needs early on can keep everyone safe and healthy during this holiday season.

The California Veterinary Medical Association is the largest state veterinary medical association in the United States, with more than 6,000 members. Founded in 1888, its mission is to serve its membership and community through innovative leadership and to improve animal and human health in an ethically and socially responsible manner.

Source: California Veterinary Medical Association

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Are Coats, Hats and Rain Gear A Necessity for Your Little Dog?
by Connie Limon

Since Mother Nature provides the dog with its own outer fur coat you might think why bother with anything else. Little dogs, however, lose their body heat more quickly than the bigger dogs. Small, short-haired dogs like the Chihuahuas and Miniature Pinschers have almost nothing in the way of nature to keep them warm in colder temperatures. For these dogs it is like a necessity to provide them with something extra for those cold, blistery days outside. For other breeds, such as a thick-coated Shih Tzu it can be entirely optional, but will also help the smaller sizes to retain their body heat in colder temperatures.

When purchasing a coat for your dog use the same good sense as you do when purchasing your own coat. Look for good construction. Wool and micro fiber fabric retain warmth. If you live in a climate that experiences cold winters look especially for materials made of wool and fleece. Be sure the coat covers the dog enough to keep him warm.

The coat should fit the dog comfortably around the neck, chest and armholes. Pay special attention to these areas and measurements when purchasing a coat. Coats don t use stretch like a sweater does. Exact fit will be more important than when purchasing a sweater.

What is the cost of a good dog coat? Designer dog coats can cost several hundreds of dollars. A coat purchased at a large pet supply store of which there are many of the same, can retail for $20 or less. If you live in an area like, Boston, New York, Maine or Minnesota where the winters can sometimes become severe you probably should invest a little more money than $20. Although cost does not always mean quality, sometimes the best of materials used to construct the garment will cost a little more. So look over the coat carefully when you purchase and be sure it is the quality you want before paying the higher price.

Lycra body suits are available as an alternative to the traditional coats. Since the Lycra is stretchy material the product fits well on most dogs. The legs are built into the suit so the whole dog is covered securely. There are waterproof versions you can purchase for rainy climates. The Lycra suits are not quite as attractive as a faux fur or leather coat, but your dog will most likely love the warmth and comfort  sort of like you wearing a pair of sweats as opposed to tight fitting jeans!

Whoever would think that a raincoat would come in handy for a dog? They most certainly can be handy for your little dog. Short-coated little dogs can quickly become miserable in the rain, and like chilled to the bone. If you live in a rainy climate, your little dog would probably appreciate some sort of rain gear. As with all other dog fashions, the choices can be overwhelming, there are so many for us today.

Hats and hoods are just adorable on a dog, but especially adorable it seems on those little dogs. It is true that humans lose most of their heat from their heads. Dogs are not much different. A little hat or hood can also help your little dog to retain body heat in colder climates.

Purchase hats or hoods that attach firmly in place. A chin strap is helpful. The hat or hood should fit comfortably around the dog s ears. Dogs have different sizes and shapes of heads, one size hat or hood does not fit all.

Now that your little dog is dressed perfectly for your particular climate, have fun strutting down your favorite walking trail!

Connie Limon is a Shih Tzu breeder. Buy fleece t-shirts, coats and other dog fashions and accessories at: http://www.littleguysdogclothesshop.com

This article is FREE to publish with resource box.

Connie Limon publishes a FREE weekly newsletter. A professional newsletter with a focus upon health and wellness for you and your pets. Discounts on shih tzu puppies are offered to subscribers. Sign up at: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com Connie Limon may be contacted at http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com or connielimon@yahoo.com

Your Best Friend Can Be Trained Too

by L Johnson

Do you have a best friend? Is your best friend your dog? Dogs have earned the title, Man’s Best Friend” over the years, and many have lived up to that description. However, there are some dog owners who have thrown up your hands and gave up on your best friend all because of behavioral problems. Dogs used to be kept outside, maybe in the back yard. Some of our pets were even left to roam the neighborhood. Those pets usually found their way home when hungry or they found things to eat while roaming. Nowadays, most dogs are live-in pets. Dog owners are likely to feel more humane by letting their pets live indoors with them.

Many dog owners, however, have had to deal with the occasional disobedient or “bad” dog. Now, dogs have to be taught how to become a family member. They must learn to live by the family rules. As a live-in dog, it is no longer acceptable for your pet to display bad back yard type behavior. Dogs must learn the proper way to behave indoors.

There are various avenues in which to train your best friend. You can have your dog trained professionally in your own home or at a professional site. Many vets state that training at the home is desirable because that is where the problems occur. If your dog is trained elsewhere, it may not deal with the training in the same manner. He might view this training as not appropriate for your home environment. Vets believe that a gentle and consistent type of in-home training with positive reinforcement can be more effective in training your best friend.

Experts tell us that: • Most dogs want to please their owners but they need to be taught how! • Most dogs can be taught better manners in two to three weeks so that your home environment can be calm for both you and your best friend. • Professional trainers can offer dog owners on and off lead training; and novices can adapt the same style of training for hands-on tactics. • Dog trainers can assist with problems with all breeds, all ages, all types of problems—especially dog aggression.

There are two very important reward factors which can help with dog training, and which are used by novices and professional trainers: They are 1) food; and 2) retrieves. These are rewards which can be given to your best friend each he does anything that you are happy and pleased about: When your dog comes to you; when he sits and does not jump; when he is told to do something and he does this without too much hesitation.

Many vets highly recommend the retrieves as one of the best rewards. Retrieves can be any favorite toy of your dog—which could be an old worn house slipper, a rolled pair of socks, or an old toy. When using food or dog treats, use only small pieces of food that your dog enjoys. When dog owners use retrieves, let your dogs chase the article as a reward for a good deed. The dog will usually pick up the retrieve and bring it back to you. Don’t snatch the retrieve out of your dog’s mouth. As gently as possible, take the article from his mouth and give him plenty of verbal and physical praise. If your best friend holds onto the retrieve and seems to not want to let go, offer him a tasty piece of food or treat to trade for what is in his mouth—this should work every time!

Using the food and/or retrieve methods, dog owners should be able to teach their best fiends several obedience tricks after 7 to 10 days. At this time, your dog may be able to walk on a lead, retrieve, come when called, take a toilet break, sit, down, stay, heel, etc. Dog owners can teach their best friends household manners using humane treatment, and teach with positive reinforcement. Dog owners can talk to vets for further information; vets may be able to refer dog owners to other animal behaviour experts if your dog has a problem that you have given up on trying to tame your dog.

Author lives in Illinois; loves animals—especially cats, dogs. See more tidbits of information regarding author’s business at: http://mysite.verizon.net/limoore

Do you want to know how to train a dog? Get more information at: https://paydotcom.com/r/9416/limoore/401261/

A very informative guide to healthcare for dogs can be seen at: https://paydotcom.com/r/4603/limoore/399717/

Author lives in Illinois; loves animals—especially cats, dogs; is an avid reader; enjoys writing; and is a home business entrepreneur. See more tidbits of information regarding author’s business at: http://mysite.verizon.net/limoore L Johnson may be contacted at http://mysite.verizon.net/limoore

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Fireworks Are No Fun For Pets

by Debbie Boffa

Its October 25 here in the UK and bonfire night approaches. The shops are full of fireworks and the kids are clamouring to buy them. You can already hear odd ones going off during the day where they just cant wait, and my dog, who is nervous at the best of times has already started to react to them. He is really scared by any loud noise and fireworks have him trembling and whining all night.

What makes me saddest is that there is nothing I can really do to stop it, I can only try to make him more comfortable. At least I do try. I am completely horrified by the way that some thoughtless people treat there pets on such occasions.

I have seen people taking dogs to firework parties, leaving them in the car whilst they attend a display, leaving animals outside completely unprotected in any way from the noise and bright lights, and even a poor horse left out in a field right next to a firework display. Are we thoughtless or just plain uncaring. I have to believe in the former so, I am going to treat it as that and again list what you can do to help your pet over these (or any other) very noisy occasions.

What are the signs that your pet is scared

Shaking, trembling Excessive drooling Barking, howling Trying to hide or get into / out of the house, fence, or other enclosure Refusing to eat food Some animals may have loose bladder or bowel control or experience temporary diarrhea from prolonged stress

Please be aware though that these are general signs that something is wrong, they can also relate to other ailments, so if in doubt see your vet.

This is how you can really help your pet during fireworks

LEAVE your dogs at home please; if you attend a display, dont take them with you or leave them in the car, its just not fair. Even the most stable dog will hate the sudden noises, and that includes Guide Dogs who can get really upset and this can affect their normally great performance as a guide. If you must go out then dont make a big deal about leaving them, keep it all as normal as possible, and make sure you leave all the curtains closed and the TV on.

At home let them find a place to hide in if thats what they like to do, and leave them there. If they whine and pace around, let them alone, its their way of dealing with it. If they want a cuddle they will ask you. If your pet is in a cage indoors then cover it with a blanket. If you can get the dog or cat into a carrier or cage they will feel much safer (if they are used to it of course, if they never go into one then dont force them now). Dont forget to put their favourite toy in with them.

Close the curtains and put on the TV or music and keep it as loud as you can bear. This will block out some of the outside noise. I have a TV in most rooms so I turn each one on (to a different channel) and for one night ignore the environmentalists who would have me turn off the ones I am not watching. Sorry folks but tonight my dog is more important.

If the animals are outside in hutches or cages, give them extra bedding to burrow into and cover the hutch with a heavy blanket to keep out as much light as possible. If your horses are out please bring them into stables or if they dont have stables then make sure that they are as far away from any potential fireworks as possible.

If they are stressed, and behaving badly please dont shout at them, this will only make it worse. Dogs and cats left indoors on their own will often do damage if they are scared. Take precautions if you must leave them and put them into a safe, smaller place like a carrier or crate (not a cupboard!) but an area where they can make a nest to curl up in. My mums dog heads for the wardrobe every time and curls up in the back of it. She seems to feel safe there and its dark. Remember that if really stressed they are also very likely to hurt themselves as well.

What else can you do?

Some people say that Bachs Rescue Remedies can work and also aromatherapy. You can also get a Dog Appeasing pheromone treatment from your vet that is well worth trying, and they have therapeutic music to play that should calm your pet. I personally think that the use of music is really good, but what I am trying to do is drown out the outside noise and the bright lights.

The main thing is to make sure that your animal is secure. Close windows and outside doors and lock them if you have a Houdini Dog like mine who can open most doors. Dont forget to block the dog or cat flap. Dogs have been known to burrow under fences, break windows and jump huge fences in a bid to escape loud noises if they have been left outside. Dont walk them at night either, do it during the day, and keep them on a leash just in case any are let off early.

The days following firework events can be a nightmare for animal shelters as all the escaped animals who have fled in panic are brought in, and youd be surprised at how far they can go when scared. Put some thought into caring for your pet and take the load off the shelters. After all, you asked for your pet, he didnt ask for you. Its your responsibility to take good care of him

Debbie Boffa has a rescued Briard called Arnie that has taken some real dedication to get around his poor start in life. Her experiences have lead to her new book ‘Dog Obedience Training’ and a new website www.trainingdogsrus.com. She’d love to see you there to get your FREE dog training tips!Debbie Boffa may be contacted at http://www.trainingdogsrus.com. or debbieboffa@gmail.com

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Animals for Adoption Create Beautiful Friendships

by Morgan Hamilton

If you are looking for a pet to keep you company, you can find the perfect one by looking at the animals for adoption at your local animal shelter. A lot of lovable animals in local shelters are sitting in their small cages, waiting for people who may want to keep them as pets. Stray animals of all kinds end up as animals for adoption in animal shelters. Most of them are family pets that irresponsible owners have neglected or abandoned.

In the past I only wanted to have purebred animals as pets and I make it a point to know about the animal’s bloodline. After visiting a shelter with my sister, my views about hybrid animals changed completely. My sister recently lost her husband and she wants to have a pet to comfort her. I went along to give her some moral support and to help her choose the animal she needs. Seeing the situation of animals for adoption in that shelter, broke my heart and almost brought tears to my eyes.

I did not realize how irresponsible people can be with their pets. These animals for adoption need to have love and proper care. Here I was, spending a lot of money for my fancy purebred cat when there are hundreds of animals that need attention. The shelter keepers told me that the number of animals in the shelter have been increasing steadily over the years . This year they have trouble finding enough food and space for them. Most of them find their way to the shelter after the Christmas holiday. Most of them were given as presents to rotten kids who abandon them after a few weeks.

That day at the shelter, made me decide that I have to care for one of those poor animals for adoption. I prefer to have cats as pets because my tight schedule does not give me the time to care properly for a dog. As I was looking at the animals, a playful kitten came up to me and meowed. I immediately fell in love in love with her. Later at night as I watched her play with a ball, she looked up and meowed at me again. I can’t help but smile knowing that I made the right decision.

If I had only known that there were so many animals for adoption waiting to be part of a family, I would have adopted one earlier. Perhaps I might add another cat to my family next year. I hope that more people would think about helping those animals for adoption by taking them into their homes and giving them the love and attention they need. I also hope that people would take better care of their pets so that the poor animals won’t end up in sad animal shelters.

Morgan Hamilton offers expert advice and great tips regarding all aspects concerning Animals for Adoption. Visit our site for more helpful information about Animals for Adoption and other similar topics. Morgan Hamilton may be contacted at http://www.find-cards-now.com  

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When Animals “Misbehave”

by Sulana Stone

Have you ever considered that animal “misbehavior” might be a form of animal “communication?”

“Misbehaving” Animals as “Doctors”

Recently researchers discovered that specific animal behavior signals the existence of cancer or foretells an upcoming seizure. According to an article by NewScientist.com, “one dog’s misbehavior—biting and sniffing a cancerous mole—most likely saved its owner’s life.” Inspired by this case, dogs are now being trained to “diagnose” melanomas, bladder, breast and lung cancer—before symptoms appear. Our canine buddies also alert people prone to seizures—before the seizure occurs.

It’s a modern discovery that animals have amazing diagnostic abilities to help people be healthier. Yet animals have always had these abilities. Might animals have other talents that researchers haven’t noticed? Is it possible that our pawed, clawed, and hoofed friends have been trying to assist us to live happier lives using a language that people have labeled “misbehavior?”

“Misbehaving” Animals as “Guiding Angels”

A few years ago, I uncovered a mind-blowing relationship between animals who “misbehave” and their keepers.

While working at a dog-boarding kennel, I start honing my skills as a fledgling animal communicator. Soon I discover my talent is one I never heard about—seeing that “misbehaving” animals are “communicating” animals.

Critters who “misbehave” have a message for their keepers. And the message always is giving the keeper clues as to how to live a happier and healthier life. Even more world-shaking is discovering what happens when the animal’s keeper takes action on the message. When the keeper’s behavior changes, the animal’s behavior changes!

Holy Cow!

Holy horse! Holy bird! Holy cat! Holy dog! I wouldn’t believe such an outrageous claim if I hadn’t found so much evidence.

Through my own experience and those of animal communication clients, I found that through “misbehaving,” animals give people “wake up calls.” These calls help to bring our attention to areas of our lives that have gotten off track. Take the instance of John and his Yorkshire Terrier, Mitzi.

John and Mitzi

John contacted me because after years of good behavior, Mitzi had suddenly begun piddling outside his office door. John often saw clients in his in-home office. Now, almost every time John had a client over, Mitzi would leave a puddle outside the door. The situation was causing John a great deal of embarrassment. During our session, John realized that he was overworked and needed to take more “play” breaks with Mitzi throughout the day to relax and unwind. As soon as John gave himself much-needed “playtime,” the indoor piddling stopped. And, when John would forget and push himself too hard, his Yorkie would faithfully “remind” John to ease up on himself.

I found that cats who bite their keepers is a common occurrence. During an animal communication/life coaching session, clients experiencing this situation often discover areas of their own lives where they are angry or fearful. The clients aren’t aware of the harmful effects of their pent up emotions. But their kitty is! Once a client releases the stuck feelings, their cat stops biting them.

We’ve Only Just Begun …

… to explore this radically divine relationship between pets and people. Yet I’ve come to a few conclusions in working with the keepers of dogs, cats and horses:

1. Animal “misbehavior” is merely a communication system.

2. “Misbehaving” is a creature’s way of telling us something’s out of balance.

3. Pets often communicate messages from our intuition that we miss or ignore (like dogs who detect cancer and foretell seizures).These messages can show us a way to get what we really want in life such as more love, abundance, improved health or a more rewarding career.

4. Taking action on the animal’s message creates the change of behavior in the animal. When we take appropriate action to bring our lives into harmony—the “misbehavior” stops!

Getting Your Message

If you’re interested in being happier and healthier, why not check to see how your pet is trying to help you reach your goal? You can begin to decipher the language of “misbehavior” by using the skills of a detective. Follow each lead to find what secret is revealed.

One way to begin your investigation is looking closely at the words you use to describe your pet’s “misbehavior.” Then apply the words to yourself. For instance, if your pet’s “misbehavior” is biting, you might ask yourself if your behavior is biting, sharp, piercing or stinging (saying or doing hurtful things to others or yourself).

If your pet is continually running away, you might look to see if there’s some person, some situation, some feeling that you’re avoiding—or want to get away from.

If your pet is urinating on the floor, you might look to see if you’re pissed off at someone or something and haven’t resolved the issue.

The key in your detective work is to be creative, open and playful. If one avenue of investigation doesn’t ring true, try another path.

In John’s case, he didn’t discover anything he was pissed off about. Instead, the location where his pet was urinating was the key: the doorway leading to where John worked. Further investigation revealed that Mitzi was giving a clue about the way John went about working: too hard. I may never find out the benefits to John of his taking frequent play breaks throughout his workday. But we can make an educated guess. By taking breaks to pet or play with Mitzi, John probably reduces his stress level, lowers his blood pressure and boosts his immune system. Relaxing may enhance his clarity and creativity so he doesn’t have to work as hard to accomplish the same goals. Most likely, John’s regained health and creativity he didn’t realize he was losing.

“Misbehavior” as Your Life-Saver

What if your cantankerous kitty holds the key to why your dream jobs always fall apart? What if your mischievous mutt can sense the beginnings of an illness and is alerting you so you can take preventative action? What if your hyper horse is indicating how you can open to the deeper intimacy that eludes you? What if your pesky parakeet knows what’s in the way of your greater self-expression?

What have you got to gain by finding out? Your dream job! More health! More love! More happiness!

I admit that it can be challenging to see and take action on what our furry and feathered friends are telling us. We need a willingness to see the truth about our lives. And the courage and strength to make a change. Yet it’s well worth it if we want to be healthier and happier.

As a personal life coach, vision quest guide, sound healer and animal communicator, Sulana Stone assists people to discover and express their life purpose through private sessions and workshops. Find out how to get more love in life, a more fulfilling job, or find a purpose beyond the mundane with a FREE Prosperity Ezine and FREE Prosperity CD at www.SedonaVisionQuest.com. Contact her at sulana@qwest.net or 602.992.1538 for free coaching or animal communication session. Sulana Stone may be contacted at http://www.SedonaVisionQuest.com or sulana@qwest.net
 

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Learning About Snake Facts And Behaviors

by Stephanie Davies

Snakes are probably the most misunderstood, and most illogically feared creatures on the planet. Of the 2,200-plus species of snakes in the world, fewer than 20 percent are venomous. People have an instinctual fear of snakes that stems back for thousands of years. It probably started out as a survival instinct, when there was no literature or way of telling which snakes were harmful or not. On the other hand, biblical literature has encouraged us to fear snakes for an entirely different reason. Other people simply misunderstand snakes, thinking that they are slimy, nasty creatures.

The first thing to know about snakes is that any non-venomous snake will only bite you for 3 reasons. First, if you smell like food. If you have recently handled a warm-blooded animal, such as mice, guinea pigs, even cats, the snake may smell that on you and mistake you for something edible. Second, if the snake feels you are a predator that is trying to harm it. Especially when reaching down towards a snake, the snake can misinterpret you for something trying to eat it. Thirdly, and the most likely reason non-venomous snakes bite, is simply because they are afraid. When given the choice between biting at you (the 5-6 foot tall giant that just stepped into it’s territory) or running away as fast as it can possibly slither…it will choose running away every time. If the snake however, feels cornered, or for whatever reason unable to hide, it will strike out at you, more as a warning to leave it alone than to actually do any damage.

Non-venomous snakes are usually very safe to handle, especially pet snakes or snakes that are used to being handled. Even most species of wild snakes that are non-venomous are perfectly able to be handled without fear of bites (the exception being water snakes and other naturally aggressive species). If you do try to handle a snake, be sure to move slowly, and edge your hand under the belly of the snake near the tail area. If you move suddenly, or from the top, it may mistake you for a predator. Once you have actually lifted the snake and are holding it, do not hold it by the tail, rather support it’s body loosely with your hands (keep a loose but firm grip, if you squeeze too hard it will likely injure the snake), and let the snake explore it’s way around your hands and arms. If the snake seems agitated, or goes into a strike position, it is best to slowly, but gently put the snake back.

You will find that snakes are not slimy, nor nasty in any way. However if they get frightened, they may defecate on you as a way of showing fear. If this happens, be sure to wash the area thoroughly with soap and hot water, as snakes do carry salmonella bacteria in their feces. You must also remember that snakes, while being beautiful and interesting to watch, simply aren’t the brightest creatures in the world, and have about the same thinking power as your average goldfish. Remember when you are holding a snake that it likely sees you as a very odd tree, and does not recognize you as a human being. Snakes react by instinct rather than thought, and as long as you keep this in mind, being around snakes is very easy to do as well as being interesting.

So how do you tell venomous and non-venomous snakes apart? There are several ways to tell, although some species of non-venomous snakes have adapted to be able to look like venomous snakes when they are afraid. If you are ever even slightly in doubt, leave the snake alone! As a general rule, venomous snakes have diamond or triangle shaped heads, instead of rounded heads that most non-venomous snakes have. Also, their eyes are elliptical like a cat’s eye instead of being round as well. Pit vipers have a telltale pit between the eye and the mouth. The pit, a heat-sensing organ, makes it possible for the snake to accurately strike a warm-blooded victim, even if the snake cannot see the victim. Of course rattlesnakes usually rattle, but this is not always the case. Some species of rattlesnakes have evolved without a rattle!

So now that you know more about snake behaviors and facts, I hope you will give snakes a chance. Not only are they fascinating to watch, but they serve a vital function in our ecosystem.

Stephanie Davies is a 27 year old Missourian with a loving husband and an 8 year old son. She currently owns and operates her own business, Mystickal Incense & More, which sells handmade candles, incense, bath & body products and other handcrafted products at http://www.mystickalincense.com Stephanie Davies may be contacted at http://www.mystickalincense.com or snlash@charter.net
 

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