[IMG] Elisa Photo It certainly doesn’t feel like we should be publishing the spring issue of our newsletter during the middle of a COLD winter blast.

I left for work this morning giving myself plenty of time to take in the beauty of the freshly fallen snow and the peacefulness of it before the hustle and bustle of the day started. With coffee in hand I drove to Club Pooche and enjoyed the signs of nature that surrounded me.

Slowing down gives me the opportunity to reflect on how blessed I am to be the owner of a doggie daycare and boarding facility. It’s hard to believe that my dream is coming to fruition and that I get to spend my days surrounded by the love and companionship of your furry friends. I am grateful for the people I meet through my business and I appreciate the laughter and love we share.

May you and your furry companions enjoy some tail waggin’ good times together despite the weather and keep in mind spring really is just around the corner.

Fondly,
Elisa Kamens

 

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Let's Help
The Animals
In Haiti 		[IMG] Dog
Club Pooche is asking you to join paws and hearts with us in reaching out to help the Haitian animals in need. By making a donation to the United Animal Nation or another animal rescue group of your choice you are relieving the suffering of some poor helpless animal.

The United Animal Nation (UAN) is part of the Animal Relief Coalition for Haiti (ARCH), a group of animal welare organizations working together to aid the animals affected by the massive earthquake that struck Haiti on January 12th.













[IMG] Dog with Paper

 
[IMG] Paw print During the months of February and March

If you drop by Club Pooche, speak with one of our knowledgeable caregivers and take a tour of our facility and we’ll send home free bakery goods for your furry friend to enjoy!
Valentines Day Special
Can Cats and Dogs Catch Swine Flu?
by Charlene Boyd, animal communicator

We are all concerned about the H1N1 virus and whether there will be enough vaccines to go around.  Some people haven't given a thought to their pets and whether or not they can catch it.  Some experts say that although pets can catch the normal seasonal flu, they cannot catch the H1N1 virus.  Below is an article from the October 2 issue of the ASPCA News Alert

The ASPCA veterinarians say that pet parents of dogs and cats can relax for now.  While the 2009 H1N1 virus has become an international concern, the virus, referred to as "swine flu" when first identified, appears to present little risk of infecting dogs and cats.  However, viruses can mutate quickly and taking important preventative measures remains essential.

"Many species can become infected with influenza viruses, but the current 2009 H1N! virus, which is a mixture of genetic material from different species, has not been identified in animal populations in the US do date,"  says Dr. Miranda Spindel, Director of ASPCA Veterinary Outreach.  "These viruses are notoriously unpredictable through and it is important that we remain vigilant."

That being said, since this article was published, there have been reports of a ferret being diagnosed with H1N1, and last week a cat was diagnosed with H1N1.  Below are some common-sense preventative measures to keep your dogs and cats healthy:

- If your dog is exhibiting flu-like symptoms, play it safe and avoid taking him to places like dog parks or pet stores, where he can pass on germs or come into contact with unvaccinated or sick dogs.

- Avoid letting your cat roam freely outside.

- If your dog frequently comes into contact with other dogs, or is kept in a kennel, discuss with your veterinarian whether vaccination against canine influenza may be appropriate.  Note: canine influenza and H1N1 are not the same virus.

- Talk to your vet about what flu vaccines are currently available, and be sure all your pets get vaccinated!

- Don't let your pet share water bowls or food dishes, or toys with other animals.

-Make sure your pet is eating, drinking and playing as he normally does each day.  If you notice your pet behaving unusually, or if he has flu-like symptoms, check in with your veterinarian immediately.
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WHEN IT COMES TO THE HEALTH AND WELL-BEING OF OUR BELOVED PETS, WE CAN'T BE TOO CAREFUL.
9147 Red Branch Road ● Columbia, MD 21045 ● 410-730-BARK (2275) ● info@clubpooche.com