Ralph Will Be Your Cuddle Buddy If You Adopt Him
Ralph is out Mutt Monday dog this week. Ralph will be your cuddle buddy if you adopt him. If you are looking for an exercise buddy and a cuddle buddy all wrapped up in one, Ralph may be your boy! He is equal parts playful and lovable. Plus, he has amazing big ears to listen with and a big tongue to give kisses! Ralph is a three year old, 69 pound pit mix. Thanks to the Pit Project and his sponsors, Mike and Kathy Commons, his adoption fee is $75. You must own your home to adopt him, and he will do best in a home with no small children.
Every Monday we highlight a dog that is available for adoption at Pet Pal Animal Shelter. Lucky is our Mutt Monday dog this week and he is available at Pet Pal Animal Shelter in St. Pete. Pet Pal’s Mission Statement is, “Our mission is to rescue dogs and cats from shelters that may otherwise be euthanized due to time limitations, illness, injuries or lack of socialization and training. We are dedicated to educating the public about the pet overpopulation crisis, the importance of spaying/neutering and responsible pet ownership.”
Finally, Pet Pal is open from Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. They are closed on Sunday and Monday. Pet Pal is located at 405 22nd Street South in St. Pete. They also have a thrift store that supports the efforts of the shelter.
Holiday Food Dangers: What Not to Feed Your Pets
Turkey Skin
Certain foods can be challenging for your pet’s digestive system. Turkey skin, chicken skin, and gravy are high in fat, potentially leading to vomiting or diarrhea after ingestion. The Family Veterinary Clinic emphasizes that a diet rich in fatty foods can inflame your pet’s pancreas, an important component of their digestive system.
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Bones
During the cooking process, bones lose moisture and become brittle. While it might seem natural to give your dog a bone, it is crucial to avoid all cooked bones. Cooked bones can splinter, posing a risk of serious injury by getting lodged in your pet’s throat or digestive system. If your dog ingests cooked bones, the American Kennel Club recommends consulting your veterinarian for advice or scheduling an appointment to rule out any serious consequences.
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Chocolate
Chocolate contains toxic components such as caffeine for dogs and cats. Despite being a well-known fact, it remains one of the most common causes of dog poisoning. Ingesting chocolate may lead to vomiting or diarrhea in dogs, and in severe cases, it can result in arrhythmias or seizures. According to VCA Animal Hospitals, dogs cannot metabolize theobromine and caffeine as efficiently as humans, making them more sensitive to these chemicals.
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Onions
All members of the onion family or closely related varieties (shallots, garlic, scallions, etc.) contain components that can harm red blood cells in cats and dogs. Even a small amount can cause gastrointestinal irritation. Purina warns that these vegetables contain a highly toxic compound called N-propyl disulfide for dogs, leading to the breakdown and eventual destruction of red blood cells, potentially causing anemia. In extreme cases, onion poisoning can be fatal for dogs.
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Alcoholic Beverages
While it may seem like common sense not to give your dog alcohol, unattended drinks at gatherings pose a risk. Holiday drinks are often sweet, and curious pets may inadvertently consume alcohol. According to Amical Emergency Care, alcohol toxicity is a common pet poisoning that can result from ingestion, skin absorption, or inhalation of alcohol or alcohol-containing products. Pets with severe poisoning are at risk of death.
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Grapes
Raisins and grapes are not commonly known to be poisonous to animals. However, they can cause kidney failure in dogs, as noted by the American Kennel Club. Initial signs of poisoning include vomiting and hyperactivity. Make sure all desserts, fruitcakes, and fruit baskets are kept out of your pet’s reach to prevent accidental ingestion.
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