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THE CHARTREUX CAT
Chartreux cat
The Chartreux is a rare cat breed from France with a thick blue coat. It’s a domestic cat breed that was first discussed in a poem in 1558. There were plenty of free-roaming cats like the Chartreux that roamed the streets of Paris and were ratters in shops and homes. After WW1, cat fanciers took interest in this cat breed, and a breed standard for the Chartreux was formed. By 1928 and 1931, this cat breed was showing in Europe.
Brief History
The Chartreux almost disappeared after WWII, but cat breeders banded together to save it from extinction. In 1971, the first Chartreux arrived in the U.S. Helen and John Gamon from California, imported the first Chartreux into the U.S. The Cat Fanciers Association (CFA) promoted this breed to showing. By 2007, there were less than two dozen Chartreux cat breeders in North America.
Physical Features
With a strong and powerful body, the Chartreux has a short, thick waterproof blueish-grey coat. Their eyes are orange and their heads are round with full, adorable cheeks. Because of this, they always look like they are smiling. Their ears are medium-sized and their legs are relatively short with medium-sized paws.
Average Height:
9-11 inches
Average Weight:
9-12 pounds
Life Expectancy:
12-15 years
Temperament
Some Chartreux cats are actually mute, but don’t let that fool you. They’re extremely intelligent and inquisitive. They’re known for opening door latches, drawers and even navigating a confusing screen door. The Chartreux does well with family, strangers, other pets, and children. Chartreux kittens are active and playful. Senior cats tend to enjoy watching, and are much less active. This cat breed is perfect for either apartment or farm living. They are quiet cats that enjoy interactive play. The Chartreux enjoys playing with anything that is lying around, and is playful when there is someone to play with. This wonderful cat breed is very easy to live with. The Chartreux needs plenty of love, fun cat toys, and mental stimulation.
Chartreux
Special Needs
Chartreux cats are rarely vocal, so extra attention is needed to make sure they are getting all the care they need.
Possible Health Concerns
Hip Dysplasia: This is rare in domestic cats, common in purebred cats. This occurs when the hip joint is loose, and leads to degenerative joint disease.
Ringworm: This is an infection of the skin, hair, or claws, and is caused by a fungus called dermatophyte. This occurs in 98% of cats. It spreads easily from cats to people.
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: This is a heart muscle disorder where the heart walls of the left ventricle thicken. This results in the walls becoming stiffer. This is a common heart disease in cats. It tends to get noticed at around 3 months to 17 years of age. Most cats will be middle aged when this disorder occurs. This disorder tends to affect males more than females, and it is an inherited genetic defect.
Gingivitis: This is when the gums become inflamed due to bacterial plaque. At this stage the ligaments and bone are not infected. Gum color in cats will change from a light pink to red or purple. The gum edge wills well. Symptoms include bleeding and bad breath. This can be reversed with proper teeth cleaning.
Exercise
This cat breed needs daily exercise combined with plenty of mental stimulation through active play and interaction with people. Finding a variety of mentally stimulating cat toys will allow for your cat to lead a well-balanced life, with the right amount of exercise and mental stimulation.
Grooming
All cat breeds will groom themselves several times throughout the day. Daily grooming is necessary because it limits the amount of hair that your cat will consume. This helps limit the development of hairballs.
Daily cleaning with pet wipes beneath the tail is necessary. Ears should be checked weekly for cleanliness and sensitivity. If there is a buildup of wax and dirt, organisms can lead to an ear infection. Consult with your veterinarian about safe and gentle ear cleaning techniques. Nail trimming is necessary every few weeks. Eyes should also be cleaned gently every morning with cotton wool or a soft wipe. Each eye should be cleaned with different wipes or cotton balls to avoid eye infection contamination in both eyes. Cats should also have their teeth brushed a few times a week with a special feline toothpaste and brush.
The Chartreux is an active, yet relaxed cat breed that needs lots of playtime. This is not a cat breed that enjoys being alone all day. The Chartreux enjoys being around other cat friendly animals, and gentle humans.
Chartreux cat breed
CAT HEALTH: A CHECKLIST
All cat owners know cats are independent creatures and do not require a lot of your time. Cats love to sleep and hide in safe places; however, they also want and need attention. They need scratching posts, climbing towers, feeding, grooming and other loving care. Because of their independent nature and desire to be separated from human activity part of the time, many cat owners believe they do not have to interact with their cats on a daily basis. In reality, cats need daily attention from their human family to be at their best.
NATIONAL VETERINARY TECHNICIAN WEEK
Sunday, October 12, 2014, marked the first day of National Veterinary Technician Week. Veterinary Technicians are dedicated animal hospital professionals, who provide the ultimate care for your four-legged friends, your pets. They perform a multitude of tasks around any animal hospital to enhance the health and welfare of your special family member.
THE POODLE
One of the world’s most popular dogs, the Poodle enjoys the limelight. Experts describe the Poodle as clever, elegant, and proud. Tucked behind the impressive hairdos, fancy ribbons, and regal attitude is an affectionate friend and winner among dogs.
Brief History
The Poodle has a rich history that dates back to the first century. No one is certain of its origin. Its earliest ancestors were curly-coated dogs from central Asia. The curly-coated type extended into Hungary, France, and Russia, and was known as the Barbet. In France, the Poodle is believed to be a crossbreed of the Barbet and a Hungarian water dog. It is referred to as the “chien canard” or “caniche”, for its duck hunting prowess. But the dog is so versatile that it found work as a guide dog, military dog, and a circus performer. So adored was the poodle that it became enshrined as the national breed of France.
But the German strain is the type that most influenced the dog we see today. In Germany, it is known as “Pudelhund”. The name is a combination phrase, “Pudel” meaning, “to splash about”, and “hunt”, or “hound”.
European history has seen Poodle depictions in painting and drawings dating back to the 15th century. In Spain, this breed became extremely popular during the 18th century through artists such as Francisco Goya.
The Poodle comes in 3 sizes: Toy, Miniature and Standard. The Standard poodle holds the claim to being the original version, with the other two varieties bred down for the ease of household companionship. In the late 19th century, fanciers began exhibiting the poodle in the show ring. Its iconic haircut was thought to have started as a hunting clip, with hair left longer to protect its joints from the cold. But the accentuated height and fluff were probably further exaggerated for the circus performers.
Physical Features
The Poodle is square, standing as tall as his body is long. He has a long nose, a full muzzle, dark eyes, and long, pendulous ears. The tail is usually cropped. A true sporting dog, his body is muscular and athletic. His coat is his glory; it comes in many colors including bi-color. The hair is thick and notoriously curly, although groomers will blow it straight and hand-scissor it for the legendary haircut.
The registry recognizes three sizes.
Average Height:
Toy: Under 10 inches
Miniature: 10-15 inches
Standard: Over 15 inches
Average Weight:
Toy: 5-7 pounds
Miniature: 10-20 pounds
Standard: 45-70 pounds
Life Expectancy:
10-15 years
Temperament
The Poodle is among the smartest of all dogs. This breed is a brilliant student and adept at nearly any kind of task. His personality is one of fun and happy energy, filled with humor and bounce.
Special Needs
Being a curly-coated dog, the Poodle will need regular grooming. The dog can be prone to ear infections unless the hair is pulled from the inner ear.
Possible Health Concerns
Poodles can be fragile, especially the toy variety. Some of the ailments that plague the breed are:
Heart disease
Cushing’s disease
Epilepsy
Addison’s disease
Gastric dilation-volvulus/bloat
Hip dysplasia
Eye disorders
Sebaceous adenitis
Exercise
Depending on the size of the dog, exercise needs will vary. But all poodles need a fair amount of aerobic workout on a regular basis.
Nutrition
Poodles thrive on a balanced diet of proteins, carbohydrates, and fat. Carbohydrates provide them with the energy needed to stay active while proteins and fat support their lean muscle health, build and repair their immune system as well as the central nervous system. Proteins should make up a huge part of their diet since they make their coats and skins glow.
Grooming
The Poodle’s grooming needs are best addressed by a professional, although some owners like to let their dog grow out curly and woolly. To that end, be sure to have a veterinarian inspect the ears, cut the toenails, and drain the anal glands regularly.
Here are some more poodle resources:
Poodle Lovers Post: History of the Poodle
AKC.org: Dog Breeds: Poodle
BEHAVIORAL DIFFERENCES IN CATS AND DOGS
Having both a dog and a cat at home isn’t unusual. They are two creatures that can live in harmony together. Pet owners do the same for both as far as caring for them goes. They provide them with food, shelter, and water. Cats and dogs still share a few obvious differences… and not just their size. Here are five ways having dogs is different from having cats.
THE BEAGLE
The Beagle has enjoyed tremendous popularity for many years, and rightly so. He is the epitome of sweetness and joy. A dog of impeccable temperament and gentle nature, this breed is an excellent choice for a family with kids.
Brief History
The Beagle has a long history that hails all the way back to the fifth century. The ancient Greeks used a small hunting dog remarkably similar to today’s much-loved tricolor hound. Early Beagles, which traveled under other monikers such as St. Hubert’s Hound, Talbot’s Hound, and Southern Hound, were enjoyed by notables such as William the Conqueror. These evolved into the diminutive “Pocket Beagle”, popular with the aristocracy in medieval times, including King Henry VII and Queen Elizabeth. In the 1700s, the North Country Beagle and the Southern Hound were crossed with the Foxhound, which created the version of hound that we know as the Beagle.
Around 1830 and following throughout that century, breeders devoted themselves to establishing the Beagle as a stand-alone breed. By 1884 it had been imported to America and was recognized by the AKC.
Physical Features
According to the AKC standard, the Beagle is, “A miniature Foxhound, solid and big for his inches, with the wear-and-tear look of the hound that can last in the chase and follow his quarry to the death.”
This summarizes the Beagle’s muscle and athleticism, his deep chest, and strong legs, while perhaps overlooking his adorableness. His soft, floppy ears and big brown eyes would melt butter.
The registry recognizes two sizes: Under 13 inches and from 13 to 15 inches, which is the height the dog is measured at his shoulder.
Average Height:
13-15 inches
Average Weight:
26-33 pounds
Life Expectancy:
10-15 years
Temperament
On their own, Beagles love to thrive in groups and families, they also blend in well with other dog breeds thanks to their calm, cohesive nature, and their need to be “groupies”. Adopting a Beagle may be your best deed ever since it will bond with you effortlessly and always be on your trail with its gentle and happy aura. Beagles are very tender to children and the love shared and shown will always manifest during playtime.
Regarded as the least hostile dog breed, you will never find a Beagle attacking or biting strangers unless it is harshly provoked. Their welcoming nature allows them to deal with strangers in an intelligent manner that gives them some freedom while being protective of their environments, families, and owners. If you are a stranger to a Beagle, it will hardly show any negative response or aggression towards you and with some strokes to its fur, this dog will bond with you immediately and share in some fun moments with you as it shows you around.
Special Needs
Being a sporting dog, a Beagle has to have vigorous exercise on a regular basis. His tendency to bay and howl can create issues for apartment living.
Possible Health Concerns
Being a sporting dog, a Beagle has to have vigorous exercise on a regular basis. His tendency to bay and howl can create issues for apartment living.
Heart disease
Epilepsy
Back problems
Eye problems
Chondrodysplasia (abnormality in bones and cartilage)
Mast cell tumors
Exercise
Apart from being gentle and friendly, a Beagle is a highly active and energetic dog. If not on a leash, he may run off and chase smaller animals such as rabbits. Allow your Beagle some space and time to play, and you should train him to adhere to a daily regular exercise routine with you such as walking or jogging.
Nutrition
The active lifestyle of the Beagle will call for a protein-rich diet: whole meats, fish, and poultry are an ideal choice. To maintain its coat and keep it shiny, you might have to add in some essential fatty acids found in fish oil, safflower, and sunflower. Vegetables such as pumpkin and spinach, and fruits such as apples, watermelon, and blueberries can also be included to provide your Beagle with a healthy dose of vitamins.
Grooming
The Beagle has a short coat and sheds individual hairs all year long. He will benefit from an occasional brushing and nail trim.
HEALTHY FOOD FOR PETS
Pets are loyal buddies. They don’t only provide companionship and friendship, they also provide security and they work as guides for the sick, elderly and the physically-challenged among others. Your pet can only remain healthy and in prime shape when they enjoy a healthy body and a stable mind.
THE CHIHUAHUA
The Chihuahua originated from Mexico and is named after its home state. Although its history is vague, it is believed that both the Toltec and the Aztec cultures raised small dogs called the Techichi. Many believe this breed is one of the ancient ancestors of the modern-day Chihuahua.
Brief History
The Techichi was refined by the Aztecs into a smaller dog breed over time and became an important part of their culture. This hardy little dog lived in small villages in the mid 1800’s when travelers from the U.S developed a liking to them in Mexico. The first Chihuahua was registered in 1908 with the AKC.
Physical Features
The Chihuahua is a compact little dog and often slightly longer than they are tall. This very feisty breed has a large, rounded skull with a short pointed muzzle and large, full eyes. Their ears are large and erect with outward-pointing tips. This breed has a long, thin tail which is either carried up or in a loop over their backs.
The Chihuahua typically has either a longhaired or a short, smooth coat. They also have a large ruff around the neck and feathering on the tail, feet, and legs.
This breed may be any color with a solid, marked or splashed coat. The most common coat colors found in Chihuahua’s are fawn, sable, red, black and tan, tricolor, and brindle.
Average Height:
6-9 inches
Average Weight:
2-6 pounds
Life Expectancy:
12-20 years
Temperament
The Chihuahua has a ‘terrier-like’ attitude — a small dog with a big attitude! The Chihuahua is extremely alert, barks a lot, and is very sensitive to noise. This breed needs plenty of socialization around other dogs, animals and people from puppyhood.
The Chihuahua also does well with positive training which helps them socialize with other dogs and people. That said, this very self-reliant dog breed does not do well with children and prefers a relaxed household with an elderly adult.
If socialized from a young age, the Chihuahua is great with other animals, dogs and people, but will still need plenty of time to feel comfortable. If you’re looking for a feisty, yet sensitive buddy, the Chihuahua might be the companion for you.
This sensitive breed will need time to adjust to new surroundings and will be very nervous at first. It may take a few weeks for them to adapt, but once they’ve settled down, there’s no turning back. They have some big personality, loving companionship and lots of laughs.
Special Needs
This breed tends to get scared very easily and does not like loud noises. Pet parents need to be careful that Chihuahua does not run away when off-leash. Early socialization with other dogs, people and animals is highly recommended. Chihuahuas also tend to bark a lot when afraid.
Possible Health Concerns
The Chihuahua is an active dog breed that may be susceptible to the following:
Heart Problems. Mitral Valve Disease also known as MVD occurs when the mitral valve thickens and degrades over time. Coughing and difficulty breathing are symptoms.
Eye Diseases. Dry eye is a common eye problem in this breed and has the potential to cause blindness. Consult with your veterinarian if you notice excessive blinking, sticky or red eyes.
Patellar Luxation. This happens when the kneecap is dislocated. If left untreated it can lead to arthritis.
Exercise
The Chihuahua needs regular daily walks and off-leash trips to the dog park. Although this breed is small, exercise is crucial for good health and mental stimulation. That said, the Chihuahua enjoys going everywhere. Trips to the mall, bookstore and grocery store are always welcome! This breed also enjoys hanging out at home and is very easy to look after.
Nutrition
Some Chihuahua’s pick up weight easily, and can quickly become obese. Pet parents should never underestimate the importance of a well-balanced diet. Chihuahua pet parents should assess their dog’s activity level, age, breed, and any medical conditions that he or she may be prone to. Consulting with your veterinarian about the best high-quality food options will help to give your Chihuahua a longer and healthier life. Providing your Chihuahua with fresh fruits, salmon, chicken, vegetables, minerals and fiber are a plus.
Grooming
The Chihuahua does a fair amount of self-cleaning. That said, daily grooming is always recommended along with regular bathing, brushing teeth, ear cleaning, and nail trimming. Visits to the veterinarian are recommended for teeth cleaning twice a year. Dental hygiene is crucial in small dogs. The Chihuahua enjoys being bathed, and if long haired, does well at the groomers. Occasional shedding may occur!
