Posts tagged "CatsAndDogs"

Does your dog have that special something? Is your cat the cutest? On Thursday, you'll have a chance to prove it. That's when we're launching a cute pet contest and you'll be able to submit a photo of your cat or dog to compete against other Paw Nation readers' pets.

There are some drool-inducing prizes at stake including a 3-day/2-night trip to a great pet-friendly destination!

Why are we planning this adorability competition? We were inspired by the star power in one of the most highly anticipated movies of the summer, "Cats & Dogs: The Revenge of Kitty Galore." It features some of the cutest pets you'll ever see (along with humans such as Neil Patrick Harris, Chris O'Donnell, Christina Applegate, Bette Midler, Michael Clarke Duncan and more). The movie, which premieres July 30, is the sequel to 2001's "Cat's and Dogs," and will continue the storyline of the high-stakes espionage and secret war being waged between two of the world's favorite four-legged friends -- cats and dogs.

So pose your pet, snap your shot, and get ready to rumble on Thursday!

Sometimes it seems like our trouble-making pets will eat anything. Their hoovering ability comes in handy when you spill chicken soup on the floor (tongues being just as good as mops). But unfortunately, it's all too easy for our pets to get into substances that can harm them.

The ASPCA Poison Control Center recently released a list of the top 10 poisons that affected cats and dogs in 2009. So take note, and be sure keep these toxic substances far away from your pets in 2010!

Human Medicines
Human drugs were the top cause of pet poisoning in 2009, the ASPCA reported. Last year, the Poison Control Center managed more than 45,000 calls from people whose pets had swallowed pills such as pain relievers, cold meds and antidepressants.

Insecticides
One of the most common insecticide problems was misuse of flea and tick products. Make sure to talk to your vet about how to properly use these products.

Human Food
Most people know chocolate is dangerous to dogs. But did you know that grapes, raisins, avocados and products containing xylitol (like sugar-free gum and candy) can also be harmful to your pets?

Plants
Dozens of common houseplants, including azaleas, rhododendrons, sago palm and kalanchoe are dangerous for pets. Lilies are particularly toxic for cats, and can cause deadly kidney failure.

Vet Medicines
Almost 8,000 cases of pet poisonings in 2009 involved pets that were given medicines incorrectly. Make sure you follow instructions and talk to your vet about how to safely apply over-the-counter and prescription medicines for your cat or dog.