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When bacteria invade the body, a bacterial infection is present. Often, the bacteria are removed by our own immune system before there are any obvious signs of disease. But if bacteria multiply faster than our immune system can destroy them, an infectious disease develops. An infectious disease is treated by drugs that harm the bacteria - either by killing them or by preventing them from multiplying - without harming the host (animals). These drugs are called antibiotics.

Many people simply use the term antibiotics to apply to the broad group of drugs that prevent the spread of or kill microorganisms. Sometimes, though, a finer distinction is made. An antimicrobial is a drug that kills (or inhibits the multiplication of) microbes or microorganisms. Bacteria, fungi, viruses, and protozoa are all microbes. Antibiotics, however, kill only bacteria. They have no effect on viral or fungal disease.

An antibiotic such as penicillin, is bactericidal. This type of antibiotic kills bacteria. A bacteriostatic antibiotic, such as tetracycline and erythromycin, stops the bacteria from multiplying. After the invading bacteria stops multiplying, the body's natural defenses usually kills the existing bacteria.

The discovery and development of antibiotic drugs are two of the most important therapeutic advances of the twentieth century. Penicillin was discovered by Alexander Fleming in 1929, and was introduced into clinical use in 1940. Fleming was awarded the Nobel prize in 1945 for this discovery. Since then, antibiotics have dramatically changed the course of many illnesses (both in humans and in animals) from almost certain death to little more than an inconvenience.

The problem of resistance to antibiotics is very serious. Very often, an animal is treated successfully with amoxicillin (the most commonly-prescribed small animal veterinary drug in the United States) on three separate occasions for three different infections. Then, amoxicillin doesn't work for the fourth infection. Since different antibiotics have different spectra of activity (only work on certain bacteria), this particular bacteria may not be sensitive to amoxicillin.

Another problem with antibiotic resistance occurs when an animal is treated for the same infection several different times with the same antibiotic. The antibiotic works perfectly during the first 2 or 3 episodes, then on the fourth episode, it fails to work. The most likely reason for this is that the organism has become resistant to that particular antibiotic.

Bacteria become resistant to some antibiotics through genetic mutations, which are then passed on to succeeding generations of bacteria. Amoxicillin is ineffective against infections from staphylococci, for example, because those organisms have developed resistance to the entire group of penicillin-type antibiotics (called beta-lactamins), including amoxicillin. These bacteria produce an enzyme, penicillinase, which changes the structure of the drug and makes it inactive. This is an example of bacteria developing resistance to antibiotics by inactivating the drug via specific enzymes. There are other mechanisms by which bacteria become resistant to antibiotics. These include alterations in the bacterial target enzyme as well as changes in the ability of the drugs to accumulate in or on the bacteria.

Here are some important things to remember when your pet is taking antibiotics:

1. Antibiotics need to be given at specific times. Even though it may be difficult to give a medication every six or eight hours, it is necessary in order for these medications to work properly.
2. Antibiotics need to be given for a particular duration. During the first few days on the antibiotic, our pet usually feels much better. The antibiotic zaps most of the bacteria; however, there are usually still some bacteria left in their system. At this point, if the medicine is discontinued, the surviving bacteria quickly grow and multiply, and may overwhelm our pet once again. Continuing the medication for the full course usually prevents this from occurring.
3. Antibiotics need to be stored properly so that they do not lose their effectiveness. Some call for refrigeration; especially those that are liquids. Also, be sure to shake liquid formulas before administering them.
4. It is crucial that you do not begin to give antibiotics to your pet without first talking to your veterinarian.
5. As a general rule, antibiotics are very safe and have few side effects. Loss of appetite, upset stomach, vomiting and diarrhea are the side effects most commonly encountered.
6. Occasionally, an animal will develop an allergic reaction to an antibiotic. This usually occurs within the first 30 minutes after administration. Severe allergic reactions - panting heavily, difficulty breathing, intense vomiting or diarrhea, seizures or lethargy - are emergencies and should immediately be seen by a veterinarian.

If you have any questions regarding an antibiotic or any medication, please contact a staff member at your veterinary hospital.

As veterinary medicine has become more sophisticated, nurturing your pet has become the rule rather than the exception and the population of elderly pets has grown steadily. As an animal (or person, for that matter) advances into the twilight years, inevitable aging changes take place in all organ systems, including the brain. Dogs, dependent upon breed, are considered senior citizens when they reach 7-10 years of age. Does this mean that when your dog has exceeded this arbitrary limit he will necessarily show signs of senile dementia? Absolutely not!

Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS) or Canine Cognitive Disorder (CCD) is commonly referred to as senility or "old dog" syndrome. While loss of mobility, reduced immune system function, slower metabolism, loss of muscle and bone mass, and reduced hearing, sight and smell are normal signs of aging, a gradual, progressive loss of thinking (cognition) processes such as awareness, perception of surroundings, ability to learn, and memory are the major components of the disorder. CDS can lead to a break in the close bond shared between pet and family members as changes in temperament or house-training can occur. Many people think that it is normal for their elderly dog to gradually lose its energy and interest in life, and choose to tolerate cognitive aging far longer than is necessary. They either avoid veterinary advice all together or wait until bladder or bowel control is gone before seeking an opinion.

Signs of CDS are fairly straight forward, but it also requires observation on your part. As a responsible care giver, noting changes in behavior of your elderly dog should not be difficult if there is already an established bond. Blood tests, urine analysis, radiographs, and other tests may be necessary to diagnose CDS once symptoms appear, as many times other illnesses may make diagnosis challenging due to an overlap in symptoms. Not all dogs show these signs; however, one thing is certain: as in humans, the signs are progressive and will completely incapacitate your dog in time.

Symptoms:

• Weight loss / Appetite changes
• Confusion, disorientation, anxious look, staring into space, getting lost in the house
• Difficulty navigating the environment (e.g. stairs)
• Altered pattern of sleeping and waking
• Loss of learned behaviors such as obedience commands and house training
• Reduced responsiveness or a change in relationship with family such as aloofness, aggression, apparent loss of recognition of familiar people or sounds
• Increased thirst
• Excessive panting
• Abnormal vocalization such as howling or monotonous barking

Prior to the advent of deprenyl, a prescription-only drug that helps minimize symptoms by enhancing brain dopamine levels, there was no treatment available. Dopamine is an integral part of brain function because it increases cognitive awareness. If depleted, it results in lower cognitive ability. While deprenyl is not a cure, it can symptomatically reverse the signs of aging by increasing dopamine in the brain and turning back the aging clock. The goal of treatment is to provide a better quality of life for your dog and slow the progression of symptoms. Like any drug treatment, however, not all dogs respond to deprenyl. Statistics show that one-third of canine patients respond extremely well, one-third respond reasonably well, and one-third do not respond at all. Unfortunately, there is no way to tell prior to drug therapy if your dog will respond to treatment.

Mentally speaking, some dogs appear to be fine long after the empirical cut-off for elderly dogs. Some remain bright and "with it" to the end of their natural life span, earning them the title of "successful ager". Dogs that are unable to weather the cerebral storms of life successfully and show obvious signs of mental deterioration constitute "unsuccessful agers". Regardless of which group your dog may fall into, CDS is a very real disorder that can affect any dog of any breed. As your dog ages, be aware of changes both physically and mentally. Adjust his lifestyle to better suit his decreased abilities. By consulting with your veterinarian and providing your elderly dog with comfort and compassion, you are making his quality of life the top priority. That is the best treatment any pet can receive.

You will need to have the following items on hand before bringing home your new kitten:

A litterbox that is the right size for the age of the kitten. Avoid boxes that are too deep and thus might be difficult for your new kitten to climb into.

Litter for the litterbox - you may be surprised at how picky some kittens can be. Some cats prefer the very fine grain litter and some prefer the coarser types. Don't give up if your kitten does not seem pleased at first. Most kittens will definitely let you know when you have hit upon the right mixture. The breeder can let you know what the kitten is used to.

Scratching Posts (or some type of cat furniture) - They are invaluable in training your kitten to avoid harming your furniture. Scratching their claws is a healthy, natural instinct for cats, and providing them with the right place to do that will keep you and your kitten happy. Be aware that some cats prefer rough surfaces like sisal rope white others go crazy for plain old carpet (the kind on your floor, if you don't have a scratching post!).

Grooming Tools suitable for the breed of your kitten - A brush and comb are indispensable for a long-haired kitten/cat, or a flea comb or special brush for short-haired cats. You'll also need clippers for their nails (human nail clippers are not recommended). Purchase clippers made especially for cats. These can be found in most quality pet stores. Trimming the nails is an important part of feline grooming. We also recommend discussing teeth brushing with your veterinarian. This requires a special toothbrush and toothpaste.

Food and Water Bowls - Believe it or not, there is a difference even in the type of food and water bowls you provide for your kitten! Certain types of plastic, wood, and even some types of ceramic bowls may contain tiny cracks that can harbor potentially harmful bacteria. Most professionals recommend using glass and stainless steel food and water bowls. These bowls should be cleaned regularly (the dishwasher is great). Make sure the bowls are not too high for your kitten to reach.

TOYS, TOYS, TOYS - Just as human babies love to play, so do kittens. It is their survival instinct and throughout their lives, kittens and cats emulate hunting in their play. Providing them with suitable toys helps to ensure they fulfill this need. You will need to be very selective in the type of toys as kittens do love to chew and nibble. Avoid purchasing toys with small strings or beads that can be swallowed easily. Toys don't have to be expensive to be appreciated by kittens and cats.

Cat Carrier (Pet Taxi) - You'll need to have a carrier for safely traveling with your kitten, as well as trips to the vet. There is also a new "Pet Seat" available, which secures your kitten/cat (up to 30 pounds) in your car, allowing for more interaction between you and your kitty.

Food - Check with the breeder or veterinarian to be sure you have the proper food on hand. Changes in diet and water, even litter and environment, can cause minor diarrhea and other problems. It doesn't hurt to pick up a few bottles of Pedialyte liquid to keep in the cupboard in case of diarrhea and/or dehydration.

Bedding - A nice cozy bed is a great idea for the new member of the family. Your kitten will soon know that this is her/his special place. Choose a bed that is well constructed and one that is machine washable.

As an owner, you have a responsibility to ensure that your dog doesn't bite your neighbor, the letter carrier, or anyone else he or she encounters. Not only is a dog bite painful and possibly disfiguring to the recipient, it can cost you thousands of dollars in civil and criminal penalties. A single bite may risk cancellation of your homeowner's insurance, and the local authorities may even require that the dog be euthanized.

There are good reasons why the penalties can be severe. Dog-bite claims are costing the insurance industry about $1 billion per year. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, 500,000 to 1 million dog-bite victims in the United States require medical attention each year; many other cases are not reported. As many as 20 Americans die from dog bites annually.

The legal ramifications vary widely. If you are found to have violated a specific law or ordinance, such as a leash law, you may face criminal penalties. Even if no laws were broken, the victim can sue you. In a worst-case scenario, the dog could be ordered to be euthanized by the court, and the owner could face criminal charges (in addition to any civil charges the victim might decide to bring) and be jailed or fined for harboring a vicious animal. Criminal charges can be either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the case and the jurisdiction. Dog owners can also lose their homeowner's insurance or be required to pay very high rates and obtain very high amounts of coverage if they continue to own the dog. Many companies do not write homeowner's policies if you own specific breeds of dogs.

Lesser penalties can include a warning citation, a fine, or the requirement that the dog be evaluated by a certified behaviorist, muzzled when in public, or confined in a covered pen.

How cases are determined

The laws regarding dog bites vary from city to city and depend upon many factors. The factors are normally taken into consideration by a judge or jury vary, but there are common circumstances that are considered. Among these are whether the victim provoked the bite by tormenting the dog, whether the bite occurred on or off the dog owner's property, and whether the owner was aware that the dog could pose a danger to anyone wandering onto the property. Of course, anyone who deliberately uses a dog as a means of attack is automatically liable, except under the most dire of circumstances. The severity of the bite itself is also always taken into consideration.

Averting disaster

To prevent dog bites and their severe consequences, owners have several responsibilities:

• Before getting a dog, learn about the breed and make sure you can handle problems associated with its characteristic behaviors. Some breeds are more prone to biting than others.
• Socialize your dog when she's a puppy, using positive techniques. A puppy that has very limited exposure to humans will probably fear them as an adult dog.
• Don't make excuses for any warning signs that the dog gives. These warning signs must be dealt with in an appropriate way.
• Don't violate leash laws.
• Neuter male dogs to curb aggressive tendencies.
• Make sure your dog treats all people as friends. Asking the dog to make a discrimination as to who belongs on his property and who doesn't is not realistic.
• If your dog displays aggressive behavior, do not ignore it. The first thing to do is contact a veterinarian to rule out medical problems. After this, contact a veterinary behaviorist, a certified animal behaviorist, or a dog trainer experienced at handling aggression cases.

You might enjoy a night out listening to the latest in “retro” music, but your cats should avoid “going retro” at all costs. Retroviral diseases, such as Feline Leukemia and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus, are more common than most pet owners realize and are truly threats to your cat’s well-being. Fortunately, through testing protocols and lifestyle choices, owners can help keep their feline friends safe from these deadly diseases.

Feline Leukemia is not actually a cancer, but the virus can cause several types of cancer in the cat. This disease is associated with more illnesses and deaths of cats than any other infectious agent. Studies in the US estimate more than 2 million cats are carrying and spreading the virus. The FIV virus is less prevalent but still may infect almost 1 million cats in North America.

Cats carrying either of these viruses may not show any signs of illness. In fact, due to the ability of the viruses to hide in the cat’s cells, many cats can go years without any apparent symptoms. This is a problem when new cats are introduced to the household. FeLV is considered to be a “social contact” disease. It is generally spread through intimate contact between cats, such as grooming or sharing water bowls.

Watch this video to learn more.

For anyone traveling outside the United States with pets:

• Call the appropriate embassy in Washington to confirm the entry requirements for your pet(s). Some embassies provide forms printed in English and in the host language for your veterinarian to complete. Some countries do not permit importation, or have long quarantine requirements.
• Check the requirements to see how close to departure the required veterinary examination, vaccinations and tests must be completed.
• Arrange with your veterinarian for required vaccinations and certificates.

Certification requirements vary from country to country. Some countries simply require the examining veterinarian to be licensed in the state of origin. In this case, the veterinarian's examination statement does not need USDA certification. Some countries accept a standard letterhead health certificate and rabies certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian and endorsed by the USDA. Other countries require that your pet be examined by a federally accredited veterinarian and that a United States Interstate and International Certificate for Health Examination for Small Animals (AHPIS Form 7001) be issued by the examining veterinarian and endorsed by the USDA. (Since August 1994, only a federally accredited veterinarian can sign this form.) Call the embassy to determine the exact requirements before making an appointment with a veterinarian. Also, check the airline, as there have been cases where a country does not require a certification but the airline does.

The timetable for obtaining examination statements and certifications can be very tight. Plan well in advance to be sure all paperwork is completed in time for your departure date. You may send your paperwork by mail or courier, along with a rabies certificate, the appropriate fee for service and a self-addressed stamped envelope or a pre-paid Federal Express envelope (if you are short of time) for return to you. Make sure that the veterinarian's name is legible and include a contact person with a daytime telephone number.

If you are planning to travel outside the US with your pet, you need to contact your local Veterinary Services office.

If you have a relatively uncomplicated plane flight, taking your pet along with you might be the best solution. Even if your pet is on the same flight as you, the appropriate documentation is still necessary. Ask your travel agent or call the airlines for price information.

If you are planning to ship your pet, reserve air space as early as possible. Be sure to schedule your pet's arrival on a weekday and not on a weekend, as it is usually necessary for animals to be cleared by a veterinarian or health inspector upon arrival.

Provide a sturdy, leak-proof crate (lined with absorbent material such as newspaper) that is large enough for the animal to stand, lie down, or turn around, but not so large that the animal can be battered around in rough weather. Most pet stores sell shipping crates in various sizes.

Pet Shipping Crate

SHIPPING OF PETS CHECKLIST

• Your pet should become acclimated to the crate by having practice sessions. Be sure the pet has a comfortable pad to lie on and a few familiar toys. A leash should also be included inside the crate.
• Even if your pet is microchipped, put identification tags that include an emergency phone number on your pet's collar.
• Print your name and destination address clearly on the shipping crate. Include your pet's name so that attendants can talk to him. If your pet has special needs or habits (bites or growls at strangers) include that information. You might want to list this information in other languages as well. In case your pet gets lost or needs to be identified, you should carry a photo with you.
• Feed your pet a very light meal about six hours before shipping. Give water up until two hours before departure. A water dish attached to the the crate should be provided. The water dish should be conveniently located so an attendant can provide water at stopovers without being bitten. Send dry food along if the trip is long. If you send canned food, fasten an opener and dish to the crate in a cloth or mesh bag with feeding instructions clearly marked on the crate.
• Do not tranquilize your pet without your veterinarian's approval. A tranquilized pet can injure himself more easily than a non-tranquilized animal.
• Exercise your pet just before shipping.
• If your pet is traveling with you, make sure you have a decent amount of time between connecting flights. This way, it's more likely that he is going to be transfered to your connecting flight.
• If there is a delay, the airline may kennel the pets. Some airlines have kennel facilities while other do not. State on your airway bill that your animal is to be taken to the animal port if there is a delay or stopover.
• Arrange to have your pet picked up immediately upon arrival. Airline facilities for pets may be limited or nonexistent.

ER, Grey’s Anatomy, and House have TV watchers nation-wide fantasizing about the realities – and non-realities – of doctor life. And now, with NBC’s Animal Practice premiering this fall, veterinary life has its day to shine!  Meet Doctor Coleman (Justin Kirk from “Weeds”), a New York vet with undeniable skills in the animal operating room. But similar to House’s lead doc, this animal whisperer has a disdain for pet owners (cue snarky humor of the show).  So, if you have been wishing for a show that shares your love of animals – you may now be in luck. And with the life of a veterinarian in the spotlight, we all anxiously await the buzz.

Danger in the Dish: Pet Food Recalls

As a responsible pet owner, protecting your pet from harm is very important. You take care to provide your pet with love, exercise, a comfortable place to sleep, and—you hope—a healthy diet. However, pet food can become contaminated during manufacturing, putting your pet, you, and your family at risk of illness. For this reason, veterinarians know how important it is to stay up-to-date on pet food recalls.

An Unavoidable Reality

There have already been 19 separate pet food recalls reported by the FDA this year—more than double the number reported by this time last year. Pet food contamination can have widespread effects: manufacturers often issue recalls for products sold under numerous brand names and distributed nationwide.  In 2012, the FDA received reports from 900 veterinarians and pet owners about animals who suffered vomiting and diarrhea and in some cases kidney failure and death after eating products produced and packaged in China as chicken jerky strips, treats, and nuggets, and sold under three different brands in the US.

But contaminated pet food doesn’t just affect pets. Over a six-month period beginning in October 2011, 22 people in the US and Canada developed Salmonella after coming in contact with contaminated dry pet food manufactured at a Diamond Pet Foods’ plant in Gaston, SC. According to a study by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention conducted after the outbreak, people were most likely infected after handling their pet’s food. As a  preventive measure, the CDC recommends storing and handling dry pet food in an area away from where you and your family prepares or consumes food  and washing your hands right after handling pet food and treats and cleaning up after your pet.

When Pet Food is recalled

If your pet's food or treats are recalled, immediately stop feeding the product to your pet—even if your pet appears perfectly healthy. If you have questions about recalled food or treats or require additional information, like how to obtain a refund, contact the manufacturer. If you choose to throw away uneaten food rather than return to the store, place it in a secure area not accessible to animals.
If your pet has consumed a recalled product, please give us a call even if your pet does not appear to have any symptoms. Common Salmonella symptoms include lethargy, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. Some animals will have decreased appetite, fever, and abdominal pain.

2013 Recalls

The following is a list of recalled pet food products since February 2013. Up-to-date information is available on the FDA’s Animal and Veterinary website for Recalls and Withdrawals http://www.fda.gov/AnimalVeterinary/SafetyHealth/RecallsWithdrawals/default.htm and extends back t0 2008.

• 4/19/2013: Natura Pet Products, makers of California Natural, EVO, Healthwise, Innova, and Karma brands, issued a recall for all dry dog and cat food treat varieties (all UPCs and all lot codes) with expiration dates prior to and on March 24, 2014. This is an expansion of a voluntary recall first issued on March 18, 2013. For more information, visit naturapet.com or call 800-224-6123.


• 4/18/2013: Merit Bird Company, LLC of Chatsworth, California recalled five Vitae brand lot codes (#2840090, #2840225, #2840234), #2840252, #2840279) shipped between May 2012 to February 2013, because they might be contaminated with Salmonella. If you have questions, please contact the company at 818-727-1655.


• 4/3/2013: Bravo! recalled three of its raw diet frozen foods for dogs and cats because they might be contaminated with Salmonella. For more information on the Bravo recall, please visit www.bravorawdiet.com, or call toll free (866) 922-9222.


• 3/13/2013: Bravo! recalled its Chicken Blend Raw Frozen Food Diet for Dogs and Cats because it might be contaminated with Salmonella. For more information on the Bravo recall, please visit www.bravorawdiet.com, or call toll free (866) 922-9222.


• 3/10/2013: Diamond Pet Foods recalled limited production codes of five cat food brands.  For more information, contact the Pet Food Information Center at ­888­-965­-6131, Sunday through Saturday, 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. EST or visit www.petfoodinformationcenter.com.


• 3/7/2013: Diggin' Your Dog withdrew one lot of its Strippin' Chicks™ Pet Treats, lot code 250322, use by date 2-23-14. For questions or more information, contact Diggin' Your Dog at 775-742-7295.


• 3/7/2013: Steve's Real Food of Murray, Utah recalled 5 lb. bags of "Turducken Canine Diet – 8oz. Patties distributed from October 2012 to January 2013 due to potential contamination of Salmonella. For more information, contact the company at 801-540-8481 or gary@stevesrealfood.com.


• 3/6/2013: Jones Natural Chews Co of Rockford, IL recalled 245 boxes of Woofers (beef patties) because it may be contaminated with Salmonella. For more information, contact the company at 877-481-2663.


• 3/5/2013: Cargill's animal nutrition business announced a voluntary recall of certain brands of its ruminant mineral products because they were deficient in vitamins A, D, and E. For more information, go to www.cargill.com/feed/news/mineral-recall/index.htm or call 866-420-5425.


• 2/27/2013: United Pet Group, Inc. voluntarily withdrew a limited quantity of bird food products because they may be contaminated with Salmonella. For more information, contact 800-645- 5145.


• 2/22/2013: Hy-Vee, Inc. issued a voluntary recall of certain bags of Hy-Vee dog food due to elevated levels of a chemical contaminant commonly found in corn. To learn more, visit the company's Web site at www.hy-vee.com.


• 2/21/2013: Kasel Associates Industries Inc. recalled all pet treats it manufactured from April 20 through Sept. 19, 2012 due to potential contamination with Salmonella. For more information, contact Kasel Associated Industries at 800-218-4417.


• 2/21/2013: The Honest Kitchen voluntarily recalled five lots of its Verve, Zeal, and Thrive pet food products because they may be contaminated with Salmonella. For more information, call 866-437-9729 or email info@thehonestkitchen.com.


• 2/20/2013: Nutri-Vet, LLC. voluntarily recalled its Nutri-Vet and NutriPet Chicken Jerky Products because they may be contaminated with Salmonella. For more information contact Nutri-Vet at 877-729-8668.


• 2/19/2013: Kaytee Products recalled several bird treats and greens items due to possible contamination of Salmonella. For more information, call 800-Kaytee1 (800 529-8331) or visit www.kaytee.com.


• 2/19/2013: Kasel Associated Industries voluntarily recalled all products manufactured at its Denver, Co facility from April 20, 2012 – Sept. 19, 2012, due to possible Salmonella contamination. The recall included Boots & Barkley, BIXBI, Nature's Deli, Colorado Naturals, Petco, and Best Bully Stick items. For more information, contact Kasel Associated Industries at 800-218-4417.


• 2/15/2013: Nature's Variety issued a recall of one batch of Instinct® Raw Organic Chicken Formula with a "Best if Used By" date of 10/04/13 because pieces of clear plastic may be found in some bags and could cause a potential choking risk to pets. For more information, call 888-519-7387 or email cservice@naturesvariety.com.

Every dog has its day.

Initially celebrated in 1999, Pet Sitters International's Take Your Dog To Work Day® (TYDTWDay®) was created for two reasons: first, to celebrate dogs’ innate virtues of loyalty, love and dedication to their human companions, and second, to encourage canine adoption from rescue shelters, humane societies and breed rescue clubs. This year, the annual event occurs on Friday, June 21 and employers are encouraged to support TYDTWDay by opening their workplace to employees’ canine friends. Participation will create an immediate “feel good” workplace environment and allow your staff to meet each other's special family members.

Looking for additional ways to celebrate and support this popular day?

• Solicit photos and designate a bulletin board for a “Dog/Owner Look-Alike Contest”;
• Host a Pet Fair. Provide ASPCA or shelter materials and client educational materials regarding dog adoption, preventive care, training, diets, etc.;
• Award a “Top Dog” honor- which employee’s dog can do the best trick, has the cutest face or the most endearing personality?

So don’t let sleeping dogs lie. Win over your employees and your clients by participating in this fun annual event… and watch as wagging tails spread office joy.