Famous Pugs and Pug Owners

Posted on April 14, 2012 by admin

Are you a pug owner? Does your pug adore spending the day in your lap? Unlike most all other breeds, pugs were and are bred exclusively to enjoy domestic life — or life literally in the lap of luxury. They were not bred to herd cows or sheep, work hard on a farm, or do anything specific. They were soley bred as indoor, domestic dogs — to sit in their owners’ laps and look cute. Because of this, throughout history, pugs have enjoyed ownership by some of the world’s most famous political figures and celebrities.

Pugs have also gained popularity through their use in several animated movies. These pugs become very special in they eyes of movie watchers, and have helped the breed gain recognition.

Famous Pugs and Pug Owners

  • Arguably the most famous pugs and pug owners were the Duke and Duchess of Windsor (Edward the 8th and Wallis Sampson). They owned about 11 pugs; these dogs went with them to social events and activities, ate their meals with the family, and enjoyed being purfumed in the Duchess’ favorite fragrance.
  • Queen Victoria bred and raised many of her own pugs throughout her years in public service. Her most favorite pug, Bosco, is buried under his own memorial stone in Frogmore House Gardens.
  • Pugs were and are famous amongst kings and queens, political leaders, and other dignitaries. They were also popular amongs the literati and other socialites, including Voltaire, George Eliot, Andy Warhol, and Valentino.
  • In the movie Pochahontas, Governor Ratcliff owns Percy, a very spoiled, small, obese pug who later befriends Pochahontas and other characters in the movie.
  • The movie Men in Black and its sequel features Frank the Pug.
  • Lady Bertram in Jane Austen’s novel, Mansfield Park, owns a pug that sits around with her all day as she lounges.
  • Other celebrity pug owners include Micky Rourke, Jessica Alba, Gerarld Butler, and Jenna Elfman.

Pugs have enjoyed a rich and luxurious lifestyle throughout history with their famous owners. They continue to enjoy life with families around the world.

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Breed of the Month: Pugs

Posted on April 10, 2012 by admin

Who doesn’t love the wrinkly face, stocky, muscular body, and curly tail of the beloved Pug? A small dog with a sweet, docile personality, the Pug’s size and correspondingly small, yet remarkable personality makes it a great choice for families all over the world! Pugs have sweet faces and demeanors that tend to draw others in — as Pug owners know, they get stopped often while walking, to choruses of, “How sweet! A Pug!” and “Oh, your dog is SO cute!” and “Wow! What an adorable creature!”

The Pug’s Unique Characteristics

  • The Pug’s “smushed up” face make it an endearing animal. With sweet, deep wrinkles and short snouts, Pugs are very unique looking.
  • Pugs have a square, muscular body, compact in shape and size. They have well-developed muscles in their legs and bodies.
  • Smooth, glossy coats come in several distinct colors. The most common is the Fawn Pug (pictured in this post) — a combination of beige fur covering their entire body and black-coated facial feautures.
  • Pugs are very strong willed, but almost never agressive. Pugs typically behave with a reserved, docile nature. However, they tend to respond to their owner’s mood, and can be playful and energetic in certain situations.
  • Pugs make great family pets because of their size and sweet nature around children.

Health Considerations for Potential Pug Owners

As you consider Pug adoption, there are several issues of which to be aware.

  • Because of the Pug’s skeletal structure, they are prone to eye injuries, such as scratched corneas. Pugs lack long snouts and brow ridges, and as such, they don’t have as much protection for their eyes as other breeds.
  • Pugs are prone to obesity because of their sedentary lifestyle. Pugs need a health diet and plenty of exercise, even when their energy level may seem low.
  • Pugs have very compact breathing passageways, and have great difficulty breathing in high temperatures. Pugs have a very difficult time cooling themselves down, and they should never be exposed to temperatures greater than 108 degrees farenheit.
  • Because of deep wrinkles in their faces, owners need to take care to clean inside of these wrinkles in order to help the Pug avoid infection.

Even though Pugs do experience some health problems and are prone to various issues, they make wonderful pets for many families!

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Celebrating with Your Pets

Posted on April 7, 2012 by admin

Happy Spring! Tomorrow is Easter, and as you think about the ways in which you celebrate this holiday, Pets Head to Tail would like to encourage you — once again — to include your pets in the festivities. In what ways will you take advantage of all that Spring has to offer? How are you planning to create memories with each one of your family members this weekend, including your pets?

Celebrating Springtime

As Springtime weather progresses into summer, there are many ways to take advantage of the new life all around! Your pet is itching to get outside after a winter of “hibernation”! Here are some tips for taking advantage of the weather:

  • Spend as much time outside with your pet as possible. Take advantage of the increased daylight in the evenings, and get some exercise. Increased activity will boost your pet’s mood — and yours as well! If at all possible, allow both your dog AND cat some time out of doors. Your cat should be kept in a small, fenced-in area.
  • Get ready for summer fun by easing into vigorous exercise slowly. Don’t do too much too soon. Your pet has likely spent the winter indoors with minimal activity.
  • When rain and muddy ground get you down, section off a small portion of your home that can be the “dirt zone.” This area should, of course, be cleaned regularly. However, it can be a place in which there is no fine furniture or any other items that would be wrecked by excessive mud.
  • Keep your pets from eating any flowers, plants, or grass out of doors. Although not all plants are toxic to your pets, any strange item ingested by your dog or cat can result in discomfort or indigestion.

Enjoying Easter

Make sure to savor the Easter holiday this year with your pets by enjoying every minute of the day! Take time to be outdoors, and if at all possible, provide your pet with some sort of Easter basket. Take lots of photos, and make lovely memories with family and friends. As Spring turns to Summer, you’ll look back on this weekend with a happy heart. Happy Easter!

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Easter and Your Pets

Posted on April 4, 2012 by admin

Easter is just a few days away — how are you planning to celebrate this Springtime holiday? Help your dog or cat have a great time this long weekend, and make Sunday a day of celebration! We have a few tips on ways — as a dog or cat owner — to prepare for Easter.

Have A Happy and Safe Holiday

Easter is this coming Sunday, April 8; how will your family be celebrating this Spring-time tradition? As you celebrate, make the festivities fun for your pets as well.

  • If you are having family over on Sunday, keep your dog or cat in a quiet room. Make sure that they feel safe and calm if you are hosting a big event, and that they do not escape into the outdoors.
  • If you are traveling this weekend for Spring Break or Easter, be sure that your pet has what he needs throughout the traveling experience. Bring toys, plenty of extra water, food, and travel bowls. Make the experience enjoyable for everyone involved by being prepared.
  • Keep your pets away from people food this weekend, particularly in light of the popularity of Easter egg hunts. All of the sugar, chocolate, and other goodies can wreak havoc on your dog or cat’s system. If you suspect your pet may have gotten into the Easter candy, take her to the vet immediately.

Making Easter Fun for Your Pet

Make Easter a fun and memorable time for your entire family — including your pets. Here are some ideas for the coming weekend:

  1. Include your pets in any family pictures that are taken. Spring is a popular time to capture photos; make sure your pets are primed and ready for those moments.
  2. Make an Easter Basket for your dog or cat. Include some Spring treats, such as all natural biscuits or Spring-themed plush toys. Try the Ethical Corduroy Butterfly Cat Toys or the Power Bones Natural Endurance Dog Treats.
  3. Buy some Easter-themed fabric, cut a large triangular piece, and create a fun bandana for your dog or cat to wear throughout the weekend!

Enjoy the Spring-themed festivities of this special week. Create some fun times, and celebrate the newness of the season!

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Spring Dangers for Your Pets

Posted on April 1, 2012 by admin

What is your favorite Spring activity? Do you get excited when you see flowers blooming and opportunities to spend time outside? Spring is one of the most joyous times of the year, but with the changes in environment come dangers. Now, with the Spring season well under way, there are several dangers of which to be aware pertaining to your pets.

Spring Dangers and Your Pets

As you participate in outdoor activities, the Easter holiday, and begin to see the signs of summer approaching, protect your pets from potential environmental dangers by taking a few precautions.

  • Springtime (and Easter) candy and decorations. With the Easter holiday comes lovely decorations and treats for everyone in the home. However, many of these things involve serious risks to dogs and cats. Be careful what decorations you place around your home. Place plants and Easter candy (and empty wrappers) out of reach for dogs and cats.
  • The great outdoors. With all of the lovely weather, it is certainly tempting to leave doors open. However, it is so easy for dogs and cats to get let out unintentionally. Keep your pets safe and indoors.
  • Poisonous chemicals. As you work to spring clean your home, keep pets safe from hazardous, harsh cleaning chemicals. Use all natural cleaning agents, such as vinegar or baking soda — or all natural cleaners sold in grocery stores.
  • Outdoor fertilizers. As you fertilize and prepare your lawn and garden for spring planting, be sure to keep your pets away from these harmful chemicals. Secure them in an out-of-the-way area where you know your pets will not have access to them.
  • Injuries. Your dog has probably been relatively inactive during the winter months. As the weather gets nicer, it is very easy to increase activity too quickly. Ease your pet into a more intense, lengthy exercise regime.
  • Spring allergies. Pets experience allergies as well during the pollen-infested months. If you notice your pet experiencing uncomfortable symptoms, try a holistic allergy support — or take your dog to the veterinarian for further treatments.

Protect your pets this Spring, and enjoy the beauty of the season!

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Cats and Lily Toxicity

Posted on March 29, 2012 by admin

With the Easter holiday right around the corner and Spring celebrations abounding, you have probably seen the unexpected happen time and time again. As you approach important celebrations, be sure to protect your pets during these crazy busy times, particularly your cat.

Lily Poisoning

Lilies are oh-so-popular this time of year, and they pop up in almost every floral arrangement. Unfortunately, however, these plants can present a fatal risk to cats, and owners must be aware of this reality as Easter approaches. Lilies are deadly to cats — even in very small quantities (less than one leaf); lily poisoning leads to acute kidney failure. If there is any chance your cat has ingested lilies, prompt action is required.

This time of year, it is important to be aware of the following:

  • Any part of the lily plant or flower can cause poisoning. Even if your cat has eaten a tiny amount of the plant, it is possible she will experience kidney failure.
  • Signs of lily poisoning occur between 30 minutes and two hours of ingestion.
  • Signs of lily poisoning include: vomiting, excessive thirst, lethargy & depression, and a loss of appetite. Note: vomiting may subside after a couple of hours. Even if this DOES happen with your cat, she still has experienced lily poisoning and must be treated for kidney failure immediately by a veterinarian.
  • Chances of survival greatly decrease 6 hours after exposure. It is imperative that you bring your cat to the veterinarian as quickly as possible following ingestion of the lily.
  • Treatment for lily poisoning includes fluid therapy. Even with immediate treatment, it is still possible your cat may not recover.

In light of these sobering realities, keeping your cat away from lilies this Spring is of the utmost importance. Be sure to keep all lilies out of your home — allowing them in is SO tempting; they are completely lovely flowers! However, for your cat’s safety and well-being, have a strict no-lily policy. Additionally, if your cat wanders out-of-doors at times, make sure that no neighbors have lilies outdoors in pots. Maintain a lily-free environment, and watch carefully for signs of toxicity.

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Adopting a Greyhound

Posted on March 26, 2012 by admin

Looking for a loving and sweet companion? Retired racing hounds make excellent pets! As you consider adopting a Greyhound into your family, there are some important factors of which to be aware. Like most dogs, adopting a Greyhound takes a considerable amount of time and energy. As you embark upon this new journey, we would like to provide you with a few tips and information.
Important Factors Regarding Greyhound Adoption

Most Greyhound adoption agencies take in Greyhounds following their lives as racing dogs. The realities of this life for Greyhounds seeking adoption impact their future lives in your home.

  • Typically, racing hounds have only been around other racing hounds. As such, they have virtually no experience dealing with other breeds. If you have another breed of dog in the home, adopting a Greyhound may not be the right move.
  • Greyhounds that come from a life of racing have not been exposed to very many humans — including children. Introduce your ENTIRE family to the Greyhound before you choose to adopt. Greyhounds, as a breed, tend to be very sociable and amiable towards people. However, there will be an adjustment period as your Greyhound gets used to a new life around your family and neighbors.
  • Greyhounds have no fat layer, so they are extremely sensitive to cold temperatures. Anytime you take them outside in cold weather, they will require some type of jacket or blanket.
  • Typically, Greyhounds are not mistreated. However, they are used to very straightforward commands. They are not used to cuddling or any other type of attention not related to training. It is necessary to be aware of this reality; your family probably views dogs in general as cuddly, sweet creatures. If you adopt from a Greyhound-specific agency, your dog is probably not used to being pet often.
  • Greyhounds require soft areas on which to lie down. Their bodies require lots of rest, and their long, thin bones need soft areas. They sleep a lot, and they like quiet places.
  • The Greyhound temperament is gentle and sensitive. Be sure that your home reflects this type of environment before you choose to adopt.

Greyhounds make for wonderful, sweet pets! They need loving homes with loving owners. As you consider adopting a Greyhound, make sure to consider the implications as well. Happy Adoption!

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Products for Your Greyhound

Posted on March 24, 2012 by admin

When you think about your beloved Greyhound, what comes to mind? A sweet, loving, personable dog with a calm personality and humble demeanor? A dog who loves to lay around the house? As the owner of a Greyhound, you are probably aware of their unique needs, as well as some of their health tendencies. Although the breed typically does not have any hereditary tendencies towards illness, their unique makeup and physiology do result in some common struggles. Today, the Pets Head to Tail team would like to bring you some innovative and simple ways to help your Greyhound navigate these common health struggles.

Health Related Products for Your Greyhound

  • Back on Track Regular Therapeutic Dog Blanket for Greyhounds. This therapeutic blanket designed specifically for Greyhounds addresses some common issues pertaining to their physiology. The blanket utilizes innovative technology and ancient Chinese medicine to help hard working dogs calm their muscles using their own body heat. Radiating heat supports joint function, increases blood circulation, and reduces inflammation.
  • Herbsmith Athlete. This unique blend of herbs, vitamins, and minerals supports body function of competitive, athletic dogs. If your Greyhound competes, this supplement will provide energy and stabilization from the inside out.
  • Herbsmith Clear AllerQi. Many Greyhounds struggle with hypersensitivities and allergies to various environmental factors, particularly to insecticides often used by towns to eliminate mosquitos. Herbsmith’s allergy supplement helps combat allergic reactions.
  • Herbsmith Microflora Plus. Sometimes, Greyhounds can experience gastric torsion — or bloating — as a result of food they ingest. Their stomachs can twist and become excessively bloated. The Microflora Plus helps correct this through probiotics, prebiotics, and digestive enzymes.
  • Herbsmith Soothe Joints. The joint soothing supplement helps Greyhounds deal with pain and sores from competition. Because of the Greyhound’s body structure, sleeping on hard surfaces can also cause extreme joint pain. Herbsmith Sooth Joints helps alleviate these types of aches and pains derived from sleeping on hard surfaces, as well as participation in strenuous physical activities (coursing, racing, etc.).

As you provide for your Greyhound, consider their unique physical needs. They are — of course — more than worth it!

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Greyhound: Breed of the Month

Posted on March 20, 2012 by admin

Can you name the fastest dog in the world? As indicated by today’s post title, you would — of course — be correct in answering: The Greyhound! Greyhounds are used throughout the world as coursing and racing dogs, because of their speed and intelligence. Though these uses and characteristics are what distinguish the Greyhound from other dog breeds, they have also grown immensely in popularity as family pets over the years.

Why So Fast?

What are some of the typical physiological differences that make Greyhounds among the fastest dogs — and, moreover, creatures — in the world? The only other animal that reaches higher speeds than the Greyhound is the Cheetah!

  • Light, muscular build. Greyhounds have a very light physique packed with muscles. No particle or feature is wasted — even their heads are aerodynamic. Their light build allows them to run at speeds up to 40 miles per hour!
  • Large heart. Greyhounds typically have very large hearts relative to the size of their other organs (and relative to other breeds).
  • Fast twitch muscle percentage. Greyhounds have the highest percentage of fast twitch muscles, allowing them to react quickly and reach even higher speeds.
  • Double suspension gallop. The unique ability to gallop sets Greyhounds apart from other animals.
  • Flexibility of the spine. Greyhounds have extremely flexible spines, which allow them to reach higher speeds.

Breed Characteristics

Over the years, Greyhounds have grown in popularity as household pets. As Greyhounds are used for racing throughout the country and the world, many organizations have sought to rescue these wonderful animals from compromising and abusive situations. Though not all racing centers, owners, or groups abuse their Greyhounds, some do. As a result, adoption organizations have placed thousands of retired racing Greyhounds in loving home environments. Their breed characteristics make them an ideal pet:

  • Intelligent. Greyhounds are highly intelligent, able to learn new routines and information very quickly.
  • Loving and generous. Greyhounds have very loving dispositions. They give love freely, even when they have experienced harsh conditions in the past.
  • Gentle with children and adults. Greyhounds have very gentle personalities, making them an ideal pet for families with children.
  • Reasonably quiet. Greyhounds do require some exercise. However, they make great apartment dogs because, depending upon their age or situation, they sleep or rest about 18 hours per day. Though they are not hyperactive in any way, they still require an outlet for exercise.

Greyhounds make wonderful pets, and their breed has some truly unique characteristics, particularly in light of the fact that they are built for speed.

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New Products for Your Pet!

Posted on March 18, 2012 by admin

The Spring season is upon us! Spring is a great time for cleaning out the old to make way for the new. We have done some Spring shopping of our own. At Pets Head to Tail, we are committed to providing you with innovative and exciting new products for the health and well-being of your dogs and cats. We would like to introduce you to some of the new products we have available this spring!

Pets Head to Tail Spring Products

  • West Paw Jive Dog Ball. Spring time is the perfect opportunity for playing outdoors with your dog! The Jive is an extremely durable, bouncy ball that is made with BPA-free Zogoflex (plastic composite) material. It is available in three sizes, and unlike other chew toys or balls, the Jive will not be harsh on your dog’s teeth or gums. Best of all, the Jive floats!
  • West Paw Floppy Toys. These durable toys contain NO stuffing, but rather, the inside is nothing but a squeaker. Your dog will love playing with these floppy, squeaky toys. These toys are machine washable and available in a variety of sizes.
  • West Paw Spring Toys. These brightly-colored, festive toys are a stuffed, squeaky, and adorable addition to your dog’s toy collection. The chicks are perfect for springtime!
  • Prudence Supplements. This new line of supplements provide high potency support to dogs dealing with specific issues. Prudence takes a new approach — by matching specific nutrients to specific needs, Prudence supplements increase bioavailability and synergy. 37 specific formulas meet the needs of a variety of breeds.
  • Herbsmith Supplements. These quality herbs combine the wisdom of Chinese medicinal practices with veterinary medicine. Designed by Dr. Bessent, a veterinarian trained in Chinese herbal therapies, acupuncture, food therapy, and chiropractic, Herbsmith supplements provide a wealth solutions for your dog. These alternative medicine supports can help alleviate various conditions your dog may be dealing with, such as allergies and sensitivities, digestive issues, immune system issues, or bladder issues.

We always seek to provide the highest quality, research-based products available to our customers and their animals. Have a wonderful spring season!

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