Critter Pal Blog

The Florida Senate is meeting tomorrow to review the removal of Florida's existing law that prevents local governments from implementing
breed-specific laws. If passed local governments will be given authority to restrict (and even outlaw) specific breeds of dogs that are labeled as "dangerous". This list includes Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, German Shepherds, Huskies, Alaskan Malamutes, Doberman Pinschers, and Boxers (just to name a few).

Click below for more information on who to contact to voice your opinion of this bill.

Stop Breed Specific Legislation (BLS)

~ March Special ~

Did you adopt your pet from a rescue? If so, show me the receipt and receive $1 off each vacation visit in March.

This blog must be mentioned when booking (or prior to service if you've already booked). Not available for mid-day daily visits. Cannot be combined with any other offers.

Remember to check back monthly for other specials.

Here's another great opportunity to find the perfect rescue dog or cat. Get Rescued in Gulfport will be held this year on February 27 and will feature over 50 rescue groups from around Florida.

For more info, visit the Get Rescued in Gulfport website.

Critter Pal is considering taking part in the Seminole Pow Wow Parade again this year. We had a great time walking with our four-legged (and two-legged) friends last year.

This year's parade is on March 13, and we are in need of people and their pets to join us in walking the parade route. Even if your pets can't make it, we still need lots of people to support us by handing out beads and candy along side us. If you're interested, please give me a call and I'll get you more details as I get them.

We need to send in the application by February 19, so please contact me soon.

The SPCA of Tampa Bay and the Humane Society of Pinellas are in need of blankets due to the excessive cold we've been experiences.

Please consider going through your closets and donating any blankets, sheets or towels that you no longer use.

Nature’s Variety has initiated a voluntary recall of our Chicken Formula Raw Frozen Diet for dogs and cats with the “Best If Used By” date of 11/10/10 because these products may be contaminated with Salmonella.

The only products affected are limited to chicken medallions, patties, and chubs with a “Best If Used By” date of 11/10/10. This includes:

• 3 lb chicken medallions (UPC# 7 69949 60130 2) with a “Best If Used By” date of 11/10/10
• 6 lb chicken patties (UPC# 7 69949 60120 3) with a “Best If Used By” date of 11/10/10
• 2 lb chicken chubs (UPC# 7 69949 60121 0) with a “Best If Used By” date of 11/10/10

Look for the “Best If Used By” date on the back of the package directly above the handling instructions.

If you have purchased a bag of Nature’s Variety Chicken Formula Raw Frozen Diet (medallions, patties, or chubs) with the “Best if Used By” date of 11/10/10, we ask that you take one of the following steps.

• If your package has not been opened, please return the unopened product to your retailer for a full refund or replacement.
• If your package has been opened, please dispose of the raw food in a safe manner by securing it in a covered trash receptacle. Then, bring your receipt (or the empty package in a sealed bag) to your local retailer for a full refund or replacement.

The Animal Rescue Site has teamed up with Petfinder.com to bring us the $100,000 Shelter Challenge. Vote today for your favorite local animal shelter.

~ February Special ~

Clients in zip code 33777, receive $1 off each vacation visit in February.

This blog must be mentioned when booking (or prior to service if you've already booked). Not available for mid-day daily visits. Cannot be combined with any other offers.

If you live in other zip codes, remember to check back monthly for specials in your area.

Most of us know that good dental health promotes overall health. This is not only true for humans, but also for our pets.

According to the American Veterinary Dental Society (AVDS), 80 percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats show signs of oral disease by age 3. Some of the more common signs of oral disease are bad breath, trouble eating (or a change in eating habits), and red, swollen gums.

Cleaning your pets teeth two to three times per week is recommended for optimal health. Just be sure to use toothbrushes and toothpastes that are made specifically for pets. Starting the habit of brushing your pets teeth as puppies or kittens is best, but older pets will adjust to the idea if you start slowly. Start by letting them taste the toothpaste every couple of days. Then during relaxed times, such as when you're snuggled on the sofa, gently rub your pets teeth and gums with your finger to get the used to having you touch their mouths. Soon enough, you'll be able to combine the gum "massage" with the toothpaste and your pet's teeth will be clean!

Thanks for visiting the newly updated GotPet.net website. Remember to check back often for up to date articles, local happenings, product reviews, and even pet sitting specials.