Pets heal your soul

I like interactive toys, as well as so do Allegra as well as Ruby. We have a wardrobe full of them. They do come out of the wardrobe frequently, the only reason they’re in there is since I don’t want the women to play with these toys without supervision. According to the girls, a kitty can never have as well many toys, so they were excited when we were contacted by the makers of the Neko Flies toys to see whether the women wished to evaluation a couple of their products.

Nekochan Enterprises, Inc., a business specializing in the development, manufacturing, as well as distribution of unique, high high quality pet products, was started by Ellen Tsuyuki, a several feline owner, since she was dissatisfied with toys offered in the feline toy marketplace. Ellen decided to produce a toy that would determine as much as her as well as her cats’ specific needs. Ellen named the business after her mother’s Abyssynian feline Nekochan (“neko” means feline in Japanese, “chan” is a term of endearment).

I might barely get the toy out of the box as well as assembled (there isn’t much assembly required, you just hook the string with the connected toy to the wand) before Ruby started pouncing on the the toy. The Neko Flies toys function extremely realistic looking creatures – to the point where they really creep me out a little, I’m not a fan of any type of insects. The things we will tolerate for our cats….

We tested the kittycada as well as the katarantula toys, as well as they were both equal hits. I was truly excited that the women played together with this toy! This is the very first time they’ve done this with a single wand toy. Usually, I have to have a toy in each hand, as well as they’ll both play with their own toy. As you can see in the video below, they shared this one. as well as yes, that is a low growl that you’re hearing from Ruby – she did it every time she caught the cicada toy!

These are well-made toys that should stand up well to energetic play, as well as if Allegra as well as Ruby’s preliminary enjoy the toy are any type of indication, they will provide endless hours of fun at our house.

You can win a Neko Flies rod as well as attachment for your cats in the Neko Flies Sweepstakes! as well as as an special offer for mindful feline visitors only, Neko Flies provided a special contest code for one additional entry into the sweepstakes! go into code NEKCON1 when prompted. The contest ends July 31. great luck!

To go into the contest, go to the Neko Flies Sweepstakes Facebook page.

For more info about Nekochan Enterprises, Inc., please go to their website. When you do, make sure you take a minute to watch the wonderful video on their house page!

Allegra as well as Ruby playing with the Neko Flies kittycada:

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kbS0xBmQagk

 

Thank you for nominating us for two Petties.
We requirement your assist to win – please vote every day!

Click right here to vote

Ingrid King

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7 comments on product evaluation as well as sweepstakes: Neko Flies feline Toys

Julia Williams says:

July 23, 2011 at 6:16 pm

Thanks for telling me about the contest. I have heard about those toys as well as I am sure my kitties would like them. P.S. If you have time this weekend, please come by to checked out my story about Willow the wheelchair kitty. I believe you will like it!

Reply

Caren Gittleman says:

July 23, 2011 at 2:21 pm

Hi Ingrid!
We don’t want to be went into (because we have 2 accessories from when we reviewed the Neko flies a few months back as well as we want to provide others a possibility to win) however I wished to stop by as well as confirm just exactly how wonderful as well as superbly made these toys are.

The fuzzy mouse attachment that Cody has (he likewise has the Kragonfly) is his absolute preferred TOY! So much to ensure that he understands what drawer I keep them in (I likewise have to hide them lol) He will frequently walk into the bedroom as well as stand on his hind legs by the drawer they are in as well as begin meowing for them.

In my viewpoint they are the very best as well as the very best made dangly toys on the market!
Glad to see Allegra as well as Ruby having so much fun with them!

Reply

Ingrid says:

July 23, 2011 at 5:14 pm

They are fantastic toys, Caren. That’s so adorable that Cody understands precisely where you keep his!

Reply

Katnip Lounge says:

July 23, 2011 at 1:28 pm

Those do look like fun… is that jealous growling?

Reply

Ingrid says:

July 23, 2011 at 1:30 pm

I believe it’s just possessive growling. She does it even when Allegra isn’t in the room, as well as she only does inull

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If you’ve checked out this blog for a while, you’ve heard me talk about 1TDC™ as well as about exactly how much I such as this supplement. I don’t utilize the term “miracle” lightly, however I am utilizing it for this product. Now, a research study done at the university of Saskatchewan, Canada, showed that everyday utilize of 1TDC™over a period of six weeks resulted in considerable enhancements in cats with periodontal disease.

The study

There were 13 cats in the study. 9 cats got a everyday administration of 1TDC™, the other 4 cats got olive oil for six weeks. The cats who got 1TDC™ showed considerable reductions in all parameters of scientific periodontal illness except tooth mobility at 6 weeks. The cats showed a statistically considerable reduction in pocket depth, scientific attachment loss, gingival index as well as bleeding on probing, whereas the placebo group did not show any type of considerable change.

To full research study was published in the Journal of Feline medicine as well as Surgery.

What is 1TDC™?

1TDC™ (which stands for 1-TetraDecanol Complex) is a revolutionary natural option that keeps joints, muscles as well as gums healthy at a cellular level. This product goes beyond supplements consisting of glucosamine as well as fish oil. It works systemically as a catalyst to enable the body to enhance joint as well as oral health.

1TDC™ is a proprietary blend of fatty acids that are originated from beef tallow. They are then formulated into a special fatty acid complex in a CGMP (Current great producing method guidelines enforced by the FDA) food-grade facility in the USA. These fatty acids are different from the necessary acids you discover in products like fish oil.

1TDC™’s special innovation is extremely as well as quickly absorbed, whether used topically on the gums or taken orally in capsule form. When it enters the body, 1TDC™ has a incredible affinity for white blood cells, which enables it to get where it is needed quickly. 1TDC™ effectively does the task without interfering with other aspects of your cat’s health.

Backed by research study as well as veterinary dentists

There are limitless products on the market that are created to assist with dental problems arising from tartar as well as plaque. However, up until now, veterinary dentists as well as general veterinarians have not had a product offered that directly effects the gum health and wellness of their patients. With 1TDC™, they do.

The 1TDC™ innovation has been clinically proven efficient as well as was published in The Journal of Periodontology in 2007 as well as 2009. Dr. James Anthony, a boarded veterinary dentist with over 30 years of experience, conducted a double blind periodontal health and wellness research study with cats at The university of Saskatchewan. His research study demonstrated positive results beyond the studies published in The Journal of Periodontology.

“I was surprised at the positive results from the utilize of the 1TDC™ technology,” stated Dr. Anthony, BSc(Agr), DVM, MRCVS, FAVD, DAVDC, DEVDC, Pag. “All periodontal measurements in the test animals improved significantly. The a lot more I utilize the 1TDC™ technology, the a lot more pleased I am.”

 

Unique capsule design, simple administration

1TDC™ has been created as a special (and type of cute!) heart-shaped twist off capsule. You just hold the bit heart tight as well as twist the huge heart.

4 methods to administer

After twisting the capsule open:

Squeeze capsule as well as let them lick it as it exits the capsule.

Apply on top of your cat’s food. A cat’s natural licking movement will distribute the product onto the gums sufficiently.

Gently capture the capsule contents into the mouth. capture half on one side as well as then the remainder on the other side.

Squeeze capsule contents on your cat’s paw or nose as well as he/she will lick it off.

A part will be absorbed into the gums as well as supply the periodontal benefit, as well as the rest will be swallowed as well as circulate throughout the body to supply the muscle mass as well as joint benefits. It’s crucial to comprehend that the only method your feline will get the periodontal benefits is if a part of the product is absorbed with the gums.

For a lot more info about 1TDC™ as well as to purchase, please visit 1TDC.com.

Exclusive 10% discount rate for mindful feline Readers

Use code CONSCIOUSCAT10 at checkout

1TDC™ is also available from Amazon. discount rate code is only valid on 1TDC.com.

*The mindful feline is an affiliate partner of Elite Vet Science, as well as a participant in the Amazon services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate marketing program designed to supply a indicates for us to make charges by linking to Amazon.com as well as affiliated sites. This indicates that if you choose to purchase with any type of of our links, we get a little comnullnull

By Bernadine Cruz, DVM
March 13, 2014

Want to get veterinarians, groomers, and boarding facility management foaming at the mouth like mad dogs? just bring up the topic of dental cleaning performed outside of the confines of a veterinary hospital. It won’t be a pretty sight… almost as distasteful as the specter found hiding under the lips of most of our cats and dogs. According to the American Veterinary dental Society, more than 80 percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats develop dental disease by the age of three years. Without proper care, it can lead to much more than doggy and tuna breath. dental disease can kill.

The controversy arises when the discussion focuses on non-anesthetic dental care. For the record, I am a proponent of this form of cleaning of pets’ teeth. We perform non-anesthetic cleanings at my practice on a daily basis. For the appropriate pet, it provides an excellent service. It can help in protecting the long-term health of my feline and canine patients. There are, however, two main caveats as to whether or not a pet is a candidate for this type of dental prophy.

The degree of dental disease and the pet’s demeanor are deciding factors that must be taken into account. A compliant pet with severe dental disease such as loose teeth, open root canals, or pocketing deep under the gum line will not benefit. merely cleaning the calculus from the crown of the teeth will give a false sense of well-being to the pet owner. My practice will not perform a non-anesthetic dental cleaning under these circumstances. If, on the other hand, the pet is less than cooperative and the prophy would necessitate brute restraint to remove even mild dental tartar, the psychological and potentially physical harm to the pet makes us look to alternatives such as mild sedatives.

Many veterinarians provide non-anesthetic dental care, so why the hullabaloo? Veterinary dentistry, like surgery, is considered to be part of the practice of veterinary medicine in the united states and Canada. You wouldn’t have your hairdresser clean your teeth. Why allow a non-professional to use sharp instruments of uncertain sterility that could inflict injury and pain on a pet? Veterinary dentistry needs to be performed under direct veterinary supervision. Your hygienist doesn’t set up shop outside of a dentist’s office; our cats and dogs deserve the same level of professionalism and medical safeguards.

It is not uncommon during non-anesthetic dental cleaning procedures at my office for my trained veterinary technician to discover conditions that require dental radiographs, root canals, root planing, or extractions that can only be done under anesthesia. The thought of general anesthesia can cause terrific angst in the general populace. though there is always some risk whenever a person or pet undergoes general anesthesia—no matter if they are young, old, healthy, or sick—the frequency of complications has been greatly reduced in the past decade. Anesthetic agents are safer. The ability to monitor veterinary patients during procedures can be just as precise as with human medicine. Pre-anesthetic blood work, EKGs, and other cautionary measures allow even elderly patients to safely reap the benefits of a extensive dental prophylaxis. The “gold standard” of veterinary dentistry will always be cleaning under general anesthesia, but safe alternatives do exist for the properly chosen pet.

Providing dental brushing in addition to your other services is a good money maker and emphasizes the importance you place on overall health. It is vital that pet owners are aware that brushing an animal’s teeth every month or so when they are groomed or boarded is insufficient to deter dental disease. If the only time we brushed our teeth was when we got our hair cut, you can think of the consequences. most pet caregivers don’t routinely examine their pet’s teeth. If they do peek at the dentition, it is usually just the teeth we would see when we smiled: the incisors and canines. though they can be affected by dental disease, those that are toward the back of their mouths are frequently a covert source of pain and infection.

What does a normal tooth look like? The exposed surface of the tooth should be a smooth, creamy white color. The gums should be pink (some pets normally have pigmented areas) and lie tight and smooth against the tooth—not inflamed, swollen, or bleeding. The gum tissue shouldn’t grow over the tooth’s surface. A pet’s breath shouldn’t double as smelling salts.

By educating your clientele about dental disease and proper hygiene, you can set yourself apart from your competition and reinforce their bond to you. send home a pet health check list with each visit. Cover topics such as weight, lumps, bumps, external parasites, status of ear health, lameness issues, and dental and gum health. keep a copy in your files. smart phones and small digital cameras are a marvelous way to document concerns that you uncover. senull

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I’ve often thought that the old saying “a picture is worth a thousand words” is especially true for a well-illustrated childrens’ book. Some artists just seem to have a way of capturing deep emotions, and Holly Hobbie does it masterfully in A cat named Swan.

Aimed at ages 3 to 7, this book chronicles the story of a rescue kitten’s adoption and the transformative happiness he brings to his family.

Hobbie’s beautiful watercolors capture the kitten’s hard life as a stray as well as the bliss he finds once he has found his forever home.

This is a terrific book to show young children about pet adoption and the power of unconditional love.

A cat names Swan is available from Amazon and anywhere books are sold.

Illustrations by Holly Hobbie from A cat named SWAN by random house books for young Readers, used with permission

FTC Disclosure: The conscious cat is a participant in the Amazon services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program created to supply a indicates for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to products on Amazon. This indicates that if you decide to purchase through any of our links, we get a small commission. We only spread the word about products and services we’ve either used or would use ourselves. I received this book from the publisher. receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review. All reviews on The conscious cat will always reflect my sincere opinion, or, as the case may be, Allegra and Ruby’s sincere opinion.

Ingrid King

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7 comments on Review: A cat named Swan

Pet Blogish says:

October 31, 2019 at 12:48 pm

It has an incredible story line with beautiful pictures. My baby girl just love it.

Reply

Heather says:

March 3, 2017 at 11:29 am

I love your book reviews! I just recommended this one to my co-worker who is a K-2 public school librarian. ?

Reply

Mini Husky lovers says:

March 3, 2017 at 11:18 am

Pictures are lovely, the story as it looks also. I will give it a try. Although Pet adoption as a big responsibility.

Reply

Connie Fischer says:

March 3, 2017 at 9:51 am

The look on Swan’s face that the artist has captured is just adorable. I look forward to reading this cute book.

Reply

Janine says:

March 3, 2017 at 9:04 am

The pictures are very cute. I would even read it.

Reply

Sue Brandes says:

March 3, 2017 at 9:02 am

Sounds like a cute book. love the pictures. very pretty.

Reply

Nancy says:

March 3, 2017 at 8:34 am

Sometimes, children’s books are a good read for adults.

Reply

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Roundup 38 – favorite pet dog Articles, deals & videos of the Week

Last updated on September 14, 2017 By Puppy Leaks Leave a comment
Have you seen the story of the tiny Chihuahua rescued from a dumpster? It’s one of those images I can’t get out of my mind – a little 2lb pet dog abandoned and discarded. She was found whimpering all alone inside a California dumpster earlier this week.

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Luckily she was rescued by some incredible people, and she’s now in good hands. I find myself needing to remember that there are good people out there – ones who save the helpless, ones who dedicate their lives to helping animals in need.

Little 2 lb Darla was found abandoned in a dumpster. She was rescued and is now on the road to recovery. photo by means of Santa Rosa Junior College

OK sad (yet inspiring) stories aside here’s my picks for this week’s favorite pet dog articles, deals & videos. I hope you take pleasure in them as much as I did.

And if you’re curious how I find so lots of pet dog articles each week I shared my secrets last week – it’s a cheat sheet with 13 sites I use to stay up to date with the current pet dog news & stories.

Favorite pet dog Articles of the Week
What everyone Misses When It pertains to talking about The Homeless and Dogs
Brings up a valid question: why do we look the other way at homeless people on the streets, but start paying attention if they happen to have a dog. There are some terrific organizations that help supply medical care & food to these dogs – and they’re lobbying to allow companion animals inside homeless shelters with their owners.

BC SPCA applauds step by college of Veterinarians to ban Ear Cropping
Go Canada! It’s sad that cosmetic ear cropping is still legal here in the states – even the practice of amateur ear cropping. Ear cropping supplies no medical benefit for the animal, it’s done for looks & typically to meet breed standards.

Why I Sedate Every Pet for Euthanasia – and You must Too
I was shocked that this is still a controversy, especially after hearing how horrifying it can be when a pet is not sedated before euthanasia. I couldn’t think of adding anymore anxiety to one of the worst decisions/moments any pet owner has to go through.

Veterinary Orthopedist Borrows From Human medicine to repair Canine Facial Fractures
This reminds me of the terrific TED Talk about commonalities between treatments practices by physicians & veterinarians – and why sharing information between the two fields can be very beneficial.

5 reasons Bailie Passed Her TD Test
Who doesn’t love an amazing tale of hard work that ends in victory? If you’ve been following their story you’ll know it’s been a long road, and I admire all the dedication and training that goes into scent work. Here’s a terrific look at how Bailie passed her tracking pet dog test with some actionable recommendations for all pet dog lovers.

Dunkin, The story of the Littlest Life, and All That Matters
I think of one of the hardest parts of being a veterinarian is trying to remind yourself that you cannot save every animal. Here’s a terrific essay by a vet that begs to differ – pointing out that these little lives matter.

It’s Not the Dog, It’s You!
Walking a reactive pet dog is exhausting, and regrettably we find ourselves having to plan ahead & walk at the weirdest hours of the day just to get in a basic walk. Here’s an interesting look at where reactivity comes from and some steps to help keep your walks as anxiety complimentary as possible.

Zoo studio photographs help improve the Lives of Staffy Rescue Dogs
A terrific photography studio was amazing enough to take sensational images (as seen in the featured image) for inclusion in a 2016 calendar featuring rescue dogs. 100% of the proceeds will go directly to QSAR.

Tyson found his forever home through QLD. He’s one of the stunning dogs featured in their 2016 calendar.

Best pet dog deals of the Week

220 Pet waste Bags w/Dispenser 61% Off on Amazon

FURminator Deshedding tool 42-66% Off – Amazon

Classic Kong toy large in Red 48% Off – Amazon

Save 15% on West Paw toys & Beds thru 11/30 – only natural Pet

$10 Off Orders of $75 or a lot more w/code SAVETEN – entirely Pets

This post consists of affiliate links, if you make a purchase I’ll earn a small commission.

Favorite pet dog videos of the Week
Such a cute bedtime routine.

I admire this dogs dedication.

Well it does look comfy…

 

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Roundup 73: favorite pet dog Articles & videos of the Week

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Roundup 27 – amazing pet dog Articles of the Week

Making a decision about whether or when the time is ideal for euthanasia is one of the hardest things feline guardians will ever go through. I’ve previously written about what can assist a feline guardian make this tough decision. however when you have made the decision, there are still a lot more things to consider.

One is location. I am a firm advocate of in house euthanasia. I’m always shocked when I hear from my visitors that, up until they checked out Buckley’s Story, they had no concept that having a pet euthanized at house was even an option. There are few veterinarians who offer house euthanasia. Those that do normally don’t promote the fact, however some will come to your house when asked. Housecall veterinarians can be a great choice for in house euthanasias. The In house Pet Euthanasia directory can assist you find a veterinarian who performs in house euthanasia in your area.

Another decision you will requirement to make is whether you want to be with your feline during the euthanasia, or whether you just can’t bear to see the final moment of your cherished cat’s passing. This is a extremely personal decision, as well as there is no ideal or wrong answer. I have been fortunate that I have been able to be with all of my cats at the end. They all died in my arms, as well as I can’t picture not having been with them during those final moments. however I likewise comprehend why a feline guardian wouldn’t want to be present.

I believe that understanding what to expect during a euthanasia can assist feline guardians choose whether they want to be present, or whether they would rather state their great byes before the vet provides the final injection.

What occurs during euthanasia

If a euthanasia is done the ideal way, it can be a a peaceful, as well as often even beautiful, experience. Unfortunately, not all vets are great at this task, as well as there is nothing a lot more upsetting for a feline guardian than to have a cherished cat’s final moments be a struggle rather than the gentle death it must be.

For a lot of cats, going to the vet’s is a stressful experience, which is yet one more reason why I advocate for in house euthanasias. However, regardless of whether the euthanasia is done in your house or at your vet’s office, it is useful to comprehend what occurs during euthanasia.

Normally, the euthanasia option is injected into a leg vein, frequently with a catheter that is put in the vein. This needs that the feline be restrained, as well as for a lot of cats, this will be stressful. In buy to facilitate placement of a catheter, the veterinarian must very first provide a sedative injection subcutaneously (under the skin.) a lot of cats will tolerate that type of injection much better than an intravenous one. The sedative will enable the feline to quietly autumn asleep. when the feline is asleep, the veterinarian will provide the final injection into a leg vein. However, depending upon the cat’s condition at that stage, discovering a viable leg vein may be difficult, as well as sometimes, the final injection is providing into the abdomen or heart. This is not unpleasant for the cat. With abdominal injections, it can take as much as 20 minutes for the cat’s heart to stop beating. Heart injections stop the heart nearly immediately.

Once the final injection is given, the feline will normally take a deeper than typical breath, and,typically within six to twelve seconds, go limp as well as into what appears like a deep sleep. Your cat’s veterinarian will location his stethoscope on your cat’s heart to confirm that the cat’s heart has stopped. In some cases, you may see what is understood as “agonal breathing,” a series of sudden, convulsive breaths. This can be extremely disturbing to witness, however your feline is already unconscious at that point, as well as will not feel any type of pain.

What occurs after euthanasia

Arrangements for your cat’s body must be made prior to the euthanasia. regardless of whether you select burial or cremation, if you’ve selected to be with your feline during euthanasia, make sure that your veterinarian enables you lots of time to be with your cat’s body so you can state your final good-bye at your own pace.

Being conscious of what occurs to the body physically after death can assist make this time around a tranquil rather than distressing experience. Unless your veterinarian closed your cat’s eyes instantly after she died, her eyes may stay open. Body fluids as well as gas may leak out, so be prepared if you want to hold your cat, as well as wrap her in a blanket or towel. Blood tinted fluid may leak from your cat’s nose or mouth. Your cat’s body will slowly ended up being chillier as well as stiffer.

During my years of working in veterinary clinics. I’ve heard far a lot more people state they regretted not being with their pet during her final moments, than people who were present however wanted they had not bnullnullnull

I was delighted to find Corpse in the Crystal Ball, the second in Kari Lee Townsend’s ton of money Teller series. I’m not sure exactly how I missed the very first book in the series, Tempest in the Tea Leaves, since it, too, has a picture of the gorgeous white feline featured in the book on the cover, as well as I usually can’t pass up any type of book with a feline on the cover.

The series features protagonist Sunny Meadows, a psychic  who lives in the idyllic town of Divinity, new York. The old Victorian home she bought after she moved there,which is reported to be haunted, came total with a big white feline named Morty. Sunny bonded quickly with Morty, as well as she wisely accepted that he rules the roost. She likewise suspects that he may be the one doing the haunting in the old house.

The second book picks up after Sunny had just cleared her name as the prime suspect in a murder investigation. She’s looking ahead to some peace as well as quiet, as well as perhaps a second possibility with handsome authorities detective Mitch Stone. However, peace as well as peaceful do not last extremely long when Sunny’s grandma Gert appears on her doorstep, prepared to move in. Then Mitch’s former sweetheart Isabel shows up. When Isabel disappears, Sunny assists the authorities find her corpse. Sunny is participating in the murder investigation in a somewhat official capacity, however she hasn’t satisfied a rule that she can’t bend at least a bit bit in the rate of interest of solving the case.

This is an enjoyable cozy, populated with likeable characters as well as lots of twists as well as turns in the plot to keep you reading. Monty is rather a character, which made this book even more fun for me. This light, entertaining mystery will make a fantastic addition to your summertime reading list.

Kari Lee Townsend lives in central NY with her comprehending husband, her three busy boys, as well as her oh-so-dramatic child who make whatever she does worthwhile as well as provide tons of material for her books. She composes teen superheros as well as cozy mysteries set in little towns with mystical aspects as well as quirky characters, in addition to charming comedies under the name Kari Lee Harmon. To discover out more about Kari, please go to her website or inspect out her blog.

I got this book from the publisher. getting the free copy did not influence my review.

Ingrid King

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7 comments on Review: Corpse in the Crystal sphere by Kari Lee Townsend

Bernadette says:

August 19, 2012 at 3:44 pm

I believe I’ve checked out a few of her other mysteries–I’ll have to inspect whats offered in recorded books. I couldn’t miss that feline either!

Reply

Texas, a feline in new York says:

August 17, 2012 at 4:08 pm

Sounds like a lovely book!
Purrs

Reply

Ingrid says:

August 18, 2012 at 7:21 am

I believe you’d like it, Texas.

Reply

Debra Becker says:

August 17, 2012 at 10:14 am

Sounds like a fantastic poolside read!

Reply

Ingrid says:

August 18, 2012 at 7:21 am

It is, Debra!

Reply

Dawn says:

August 17, 2012 at 7:25 am

This looks great! I have to put it on my kindle desire list.

Reply

Ingrid says:

August 18, 2012 at 7:20 am

I believe you’ll enjoy it, Dawn.

Reply

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It is my pleasure today to introduce you to Clea Simon.  Clea is the author of three nonfiction books and two mystery series. The nonfiction books are mad House: growing Up in the shadow of psychologically ill siblings (published as a Doubleday hardcover in 1997, released as a Penguin paperback in 1998), Fatherless Women: how We change After We lose Our Dads (Wiley, 2001) and The Feline Mystique: On the Mysterious connection between women and Cats (St. Martin’s Press, 2002).  Her Theda Krakow mystery series was launched in 2005 with Mew is for Murder and continues with Cattery Row and Cries and Whiskers, all now available in paperback, and Probable Claws.  She just launched her new Dulcie Schwartz series launches this month with shades of Grey, and it will continue in March 2010 with Grey Matters.

Clea’s essays are included in the following anthologies: cat Women: female Writers on Their Feline pals (Seal Press) and For Keeps: women tell the truth about Their Bodies, growing Older, and Acceptance (Seal Press).  Her short mysteries are found in Deadfall: crime stories by new England Authors (Level Best) and the upcoming Cambridge Voices.  She has also written new introductions for two Agatha Christie classics, The Mysterious affair at styles and The secret Adversary, published by the Barnes and Noble library of vital reading in March 2009

Clea is also a respected journalist whose credit histories include The new York Times and The Boston Phoenix, and such magazines as American Prospect, Ms., and Salon.com.  She used to do a fair amount of music criticism, but now mostly focuses on relationships, feminism, and psychological issues.

Clea grew up in east Meadow, on suburban long Island, N.Y., and came to Cambridge, Mass., to attend Harvard, from which she graduated in 1983.  She’s never left, and now happily cohabits with her husband, Jon S. Garelick, who is also a writer, and their cat Musetta. 

As a longtime fan of Clea’s writing, I’m thrilled to welcome her to The conscious cat today.

Thank you, conscious Cat.  It’s a pleasure to be here.

Clea, you’re about to launch shades of Grey, the first in your new Dulcie Schwartz series.  Can you tell us a little about the book and the series?

Have you ever lost a pet – and then felt like your cat isn’t really gone?  That’s how shades of Grey opens.  Dulcie Schwartz is having a miserable summer.  Her graduate studies are going nowhere, her great roommate has been replaced (temporarily) by a boorish subletter, and, worst of all, she’s had to put her cherished cat, Mr. Grey, to sleep.  So when she comes home from her crappy summer job to see a cat who looks just like Mr. Grey sitting on her front stoop, she’s sort of shocked.  but then when that cat says to her, “I wouldn’t go inside, if I were you,” she doesn’t know what to make of it.  Being Dulcie, she doesn’t really pay attention and goes inside – to find her roommate dead, with her knife in his back, and a whole mess of problems waiting.  maybe it would be a good time to point out here that Dulcie is studying the Gothic adventure stories of the late 18th Century.  She just never expected her own life to become a ghost story…

What made you decide to start a new series, rather than continuing the successful Theda Krakow series?

I actually composed shades of Grey while Cries and Whiskers, the third Theda book, was in production. I needed to take a break, I wanted to try something different and … voila!  then my editor at Poisoned Pen press asked about Theda and I was delighted to return to her and write Probable Claws.  but soon after that, shades of Grey offered on the condition that I write a sequel.  I’ve just finished Grey Matters, which will be out in December in the UK, by March in the US.

You are a prolific writer – did you always know that you wanted to be a writer? 

Always.  I’ve always liked telling stories and I composed those stories down from the first days I could write.  It was just a question of figuring out if I could do this for a living.

You’ve written both fiction and nonfiction.  Do you like one over the other, and if so, why?

These days I much like fiction.  I find it a lot more fun.  but it needs a different kind of effort.  Nonfiction, and for me that also includes journalism, is about presenting a truth, or truths.  Facts and research.  I believe in over-researching, that is, doing enough interviews and research so you start to hear the same stories again and again.  I always want multiple confirmations of anything I’m writing about.  I want to make sure I have the story right. I’m also very conscious of what a very smart editor once told me: we strive for objectivity, but it doesn’t exist.  all of us have a bias, a viewpoint, a prejudice.  So when I write nonfiction I also want to make sure that I present the options and, when possible, that I’m aware of my own bias or viewpoint. When I can, I try to state who I am as the writer in a piece.  Lenullnull

guest post by Ingrid R. Niesman, MS PhD 

A 101-year-old senior citizen adopts a 19-year old cat from the Catawba Humane society in Hickory, NC. Penny’s family describes this as a match made in heaven. After losing her cat and realizing a stuffed animal is not an alternative, the North Carolina woman has found her senior soul mate in Gus. Her story is a pointer of the significance of cats in all our lives, but particularly for the elderly.

A tragic result of the COVID-19 pandemic is an increasingly isolated elderly population. With our lengthened life expectancy, combined with high rates of divorce, widely dispersed families and spousal deaths, the current population of 60 and older adults living alone will continue expanding. This short article explores current scientific research on the value of cats as companions for enhancing the quality of life for older adults.

Cats may be a relationship substitute for socially isolated older adults

Research studies supporting pet ownership and mental health benefits for older adults are sadly lacking, especially for cats. Those of us who already experience the delight of feline companionship will likely continue to maintain these relationships as we age. The studies benefit older adults living alone or in elderly communal residences without companion cats.

To test the idea that any pet may buffer the detrimental effects of social isolation, a group at Florida state university has recently published data demonstrating that parenting companion animals, primarily cats and dogs, decreases the loneliness experienced by the elderly following loss of spouse or partner. The study was based on a large data set from the health and retirement Study. “We were interested in understanding if animals can be a pathway for promoting a thriving aging life,” discusses Dawn Carr, PhD, lead author on the study. “Our evidence suggests that cats can be a replacement for the social engagement lost when adults begin living alone.”

Older adults in general are at risk for lowered quality of life. We already know the human-pet bond is useful in offering enhanced physical and mental stability. Yet, one recent study from Germany surveyed an older population of adults without a partner and found that 82% did not own a pet. only 12% owned cats and even fewer owned dogs. Are we missing an essential therapeutic tool for mitigating the social isolation, depressive psychology and lack of physical activity that our elderly individuals experience?

A 2020 study from Australia, published in Aging and mental Health, addresses these issues directly. These authors used interviews to ascertain how owners believed their animals gave them a sense of purpose, meaningful daily lives and resiliency. In all categories surveyed, animals offered positive mental health outcomes. This association was so strong that, when questioned if other older adults ought to become pet parents, they unanimously agreed.

Creating cat friendly Public Policy

Caring for a cat is an investment. Veterinary care and cat food can be costly. Litter boxes need changing. Making arrangements for permanent care after death is a looming concern. A Meals-on-Wheels type program could increase cat accessibility for homebound seniors. “These programs are a terrific tool to address social isolation,” suggests Dawn Carr. The food delivered is helpful, but the daily contact with the chauffeur is the true benefit. A similar program could bring a cat to your doorstep for daily snuggles, or offer food, clean bowls and disposable litter boxes for in home cats, easing the concern for the elderly caregiver.

Let’s all give a hand to penny and Gus. They may be the true trailblazers for our future.

Ingrid R. Niesman MS PhD is the director of the SDSU Electron Microscope Imaging facility at San Diego state University. She graduated from Utah state university and received her MS from the university of Illinois-Urbana-Champaign. After 30 years of technical electron microscopy, cell biology, neuroscience and infectious disease research, Dr. Niesman completed her PhD in the UK at the university of Sunderland. Her work experience includes time at LSU medical School, Washington University, UAMS in little Rock, UCSD, TSRI and a postdoctoral year at CALIBR in La Jolla, CA. She has worked for at least two national Academy of science members and is credited with over 50 publications. She can be reached at iniesmanphd@gmail.com

Ingrid King

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6 comments on Cats Can help Older Adults Thrive

Nancy says:

October 11, 2021 at 6:59 pm

I’m a senior and live alone with several cats in my own house and I have no idea what I would do without them. I retired a few years ago and miss dailynull

5 Of Our training goals For the Fall

Last updated on September 8, 2015 By Puppy Leaks 8 comments
I suck at keeping goals, however when I compose them down, well that’s one more story. As soon as I let somebody else understand what I’m planning it provides me additional motivation to really stick with it.

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Our autumn training Goals
Here’s the training goals I’d like to work on next, as well as because it’s in composing I’ll be staying with them. We’ll see exactly how it goes, as well as inspect our development in one more couple months.

Outdoor Stay
Laika can stay inside your home just fine, however outside? That’s one more story. Some phone call it selective hearing, I just understand that she doesn’t listen out there. It’s all just “squirrel!” as well as play time to her. I’ve worked so much on her recall that I’ve ignored stay out there. I’d like to relocation much more of our nose work outside as well as getting a good stay out in the lawn will be the very first step.

Goal: I want Laika to “stay” while I hide stuff in the lawn for her to find.

Car Manners
Laika has okay vehicle manners for the most part, however driving by other dogs can still set her off. From what I can tell it seems to be out of frustration, as well as perhaps a bit of stress. I’ll be working on it some more, besides being a genuine hazard it’s rather embarrassing when everybody stops to see what the heck all that barking is about as you drive by.

Goal: We’re going to put an end to Laika’s drive by barkings.

More Desensitization With the Dremel
I like utilizing a dremel over nail clippers, however Laika’s still not totally convinced. She will tolerate it, however she’s still far from comfortable. With numerous carrots as well as sugar snap peas in hand I’ll be working on getting her much more unwinded around it.

Goal: have Laika stay calm as I utilize the dremel on full speed.

Remember to Praise “Normal” Behaviors
I miss a great deal of chances to tell Laika she’s doing a great task when she’s quite much doing as expected. When she calmly watches deer with the window, or when she calmly settles down at my feet I’ll keep in mind to tell her she’s being good. I’m trying to remind myself not to take these behaviors for granted, they’re still deserving of a “good job.”

Goal: keep in mind to say thanks to Laika for being a great woman much more often.

Train Myself to Take much better indoor Photos
I look at my video camera as well as want to scream. I don’t understand what half the damn buttons do, however it’s about time I figure it out. I see everybody taking incredible pictures inside as well as I’m a bit jealous – all mine look like they’re from the late 1970’s. (with radiant eyes as well as all)

Goal: checked out the handbook as well as discover to take remove pictures indoors.

Reminder to self: tell Laika she’s great when she’s good, even if I didn’t request the behavior.

What Are Your autumn training Goals?
What are your autumn plans with your dog? Do you have any type of training goals in mind? Does putting them in composing make them simpler to stick to?

Welcome to the positive Pet training blog Hop held by Cascadian Nomads, Tenacious bit Terrier and Rubicon Days. Please share your accountable pet owner positive pet training suggestions by linking a blog publish or leaving a comment below. any type of positive reinforcement training messages or comments are likewise always welcome.

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