An email from: Kate Gray, Virginia

My grand children were visiting last week and our 2-yr-old standard poodle got into the packages of fresh Kimberly Clark “Pull Ups” baby disposable training pants and tore them up looking for something. This was on Thursday night. By Saturday night, she was in extreme pain and we took her to the vet who set up to remove paper/plastic blockages from her gut but found instead a granular substance in her stomach that had shut down her digestive system. This must be the “absorbent gel” in the pull up pants–which probably works a little like cement, if eaten (this used to be mixed with corn meal to kill rats). It must be somehow attractive to puppies, but if we had not taken her in so soon, it could have been fatal. So to all parents of toddlers with puppies in the house, keep the Kimberly Clark “Pull Ups” out of reach.

Veterinary Technician Schools Online has posted their top 100 list of the best cute pet picture sites on the internet. Get ready to say, “Awwwww… how cute!”

By Billy Rafferty and Jill Cahr
NAL Trade Paperback Original; Publication date: September 2009

A well cared-for dog is a happy dog. But despite the fact that Americans spent over $3 billion last year for dog–care products, many people don’t know the basics of making sure their pet is a happy in all aspects of its life. This book goes beyond grooming to explain how the personal touch can make a big difference in a pet’s physical and emotional health. Billy Rafferty is the owner and stylist at Doggy Dooz in Chicago, a Certified Master Groomer, and a show judge. Jill Cahr has been involved with helping animals and shelters for over a decade.

From basic first aid to understanding the complete needs of a canine companion, HAPPY DOG shows pet owners step-by-step how to monitor their dog’s health; set up a stellar home grooming station; brush, bathe, and dry a panting pal; dog-proof the home and travel right. With his extensive expertise, Rafferty includes invaluable and exclusive features, such as a yearly grooming calendar; appraisals of products and tools on the market; safety and emergency preparedness tips; and valuable information on pet nutrition, exercise and play rules. Written in a friendly, accessible tone, HAPPY DOG also has illustrations and photos throughout—including special appearances by celebrity dogs.