In this week’s column and the next, I thought it might be a good idea to talk about some common misconceptions about pets. This week we’ll concentrate on dogs and we’ll follow up with cats next time.
Let’s start with dogs eating grass and whether you should be concerned. First of all, this very common and not usually a cause for alarm. Many people think that eating grass is a sign of an upset stomach, this is not necessarily true.
While the chloroform in grass probably does help settle a dog’s stomach, he may just be eating it because he can, or, simply because it’s fun. I have several tall grasses in my own yard that my dogs love. My sheepdog always goes straight to it when her stomach is upset and then usually proceeds to toss it back up a few minutes later.
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On the other hand, my little poodle mix loves to just chew on it, especially when he’s excited and playing. Unlike his big sister, he doesn’t swallow it, the grass is just like a big chew toy for him.
Finally, I have another dog that loves to chew on grass and weeds when we take walks. A walk is like going to the salad bar to him. If I don’t rein him in, he’ll stop to chew and eat whatever he can find along the path.
All that said, there are some precautions that you should take. First of all, if your grass is treated with chemicals your dog shouldn’t even be spending time on it, let alone eating it. Same goes for your neighbor’s grass, if you walk your dog past lush lawns, assume it’s treated and avoid letting your dog near it.
If your dog is eating grass and vomiting often, it’s best to see the vet to determine that what’s going on. He may need something simple, like a change in diet.
Finally, educate yourself on what greenery might be poisonous in your own yard as well as what to look out for if you take your dog on unfamiliar paths and trails.
There are a couple of other misconceptions that we can clear up quickly as they pose no threat to your dog’s health. First there’s the myth that one year of a dog’s life is equal to seven years in human terms; not true. You can find formulas online that will help you determine how to get a comparative age for your dog according to size and breed. Just google ‘dog aging chart’ to find information.
The last thing is the mistaken belief that dogs see only black and white. In human terms, they are color blind in that they only have two color receptors. But that doesn’t limit them to black and white. They don’t see vibrant tones like red and green, but they do see some hues of blue and yellow. This means that all the greenery that they love to chew on just looks a dull greyish yellow to them; pretty unappealing to the human palate.
Next week, just in time for Halloween, we’ll talk about our feline friends and whether or not you should worry about a black cat crossing your path.
Shelter needs: Due to the months of being at full capacity, we are desperately in need of dog and cat food, both wet and dry. Effects of the pandemic have made it difficult to find some foods on the shelves of our local stores. But these are generally available online and can be delivered directly to the shelter. The following are most needed: Canned dog food, canned cat food (pate’ style), Purina Kitten Chow, dry cat food (no red dyes, please). Thank you!
Shelter address: 1244 N. Delsea Drive in Vineland.
For information about fostering, visit https://southjerseyregionalanimalshelter.org/volunteer_main/foster.
To submit an adoption form for one of the Pets of the Week or another animal at the shelter, visit https://southjerseyregionalanimalshelter.org/forms/adoption-questionnaire.
To volunteer, email the volunteer coordinator at volunteers@sjras.org.
For SJRAS information, call (856) 691-1500 or visit southjerseyregionalanimalshelter.org or SJRASVineland on Facebook.
DOGS OF THE WEEK
Maxi is a real darling. She is a 4-year-old pit bull terrier with a heart of gold. This friendly sweetheart would love to take long walks with you as well as snuggle on the couch. When you meet this special girl, she may just steal your heart!
Jackson is a tall, leggy, gangly young pup with a super sweet personality. This Kangal mix is young, just a little older than 1-year-old. He is fun and affectionate and kind of comical with his long legs and colt like movements. Jackson is shy at first but warms up to you quickly. He is very sweet and loves treats and being pet.
Gustavo is a nice, 1-year-old, well mannered, pit bull terrier, with a sweet personality. He walks nicely on a leash and knows the sit command. Gustavo is a little reserved with new people, but warms up very quickly once he gets comfortable with you. He has a gorgeous, unusually colored coat that is a mix of black and a beautiful golden brindle.
Bolo is a sweet and comical adult bully breed who looks like he has some American or English Bulldog in his background. He is a fun and lovable guy.
Buddy is a bouncy, happy 2-year-old mixed breed who looks like he might have some lab in his background. He is super friendly and LOVES toys. He’ll need some work on leash walking and basic doggy manners, but he is young and smart and eager to learn.
Otis is a very tall, leggy, gangly pup with a super sweet personality. This Kangal Shepherd mix is just a little older than 1-year-old. Otis is a bit shy with new people but warms up very quickly. He likes toys and loves treats. This is a sweet young dog with loads of love to give.
CATS OF THE WEEK
Twinky and Binky are learning social skills in foster care. Soon they will be ready to find their forever home.
Henry is a sweet Tuxedo boy who just needs a forever home.
Shiney is a sweet boy, who is being overlooked. Come in and meet this gem.
Doja is the sweetest girl. Her personality matches her good looks.
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