The Most Ethical and Magical Cat Sanctuaries

Cat sanctuaries provide love, care, and rehabilitation for our feline friends. Are they all so ethical? Absolutely not. The ASPCA reports there are 3.2 million cats in shelters in the US alone, and that’s only our household feline friends. Including big cats like Lions and Leopards, that number rises rapidly.

If you want to visit an ethical and magical cat sanctuary, read on for three of the best.

Lanai Cat Sanctuary

Tucked away on Hawaii’s beautiful island of Lanai, this sanctuary is a true paradise for cats and people who love them. We had to put this one at the top of the list. Yes, Hawaii can be expensive, but this is so worth it! You might get a cheaper deal if you use a Surfshark VPN.

It’s home to more than 600 cats in an outdoor enclosure with amazing landscaping where they can freely move around without any threat to their lives. As you come in, there are friendly staff members who are compassionate about the welfare of cats and would gladly share with you what makes this sanctuary distinct from others.

The sanctuary follows ethical animal care services, including spaying or neutering all cats, vaccinating them, and giving them regular medical attention when required. The surroundings are open-air, with enough space to accommodate trees and bushes for the cats to explore.

They also have a no-kill policy!

A House of Dreams

Located in Portland, Oregon, the House of Dreams has been providing shelter to cats since 1999 without killing any animals by using euthanasia. The organization, which runs solely on volunteers, specializes in taking good care of older cats and those with long-term health complications, ensuring they enjoy their remaining days comfortably by living dignified lives.

The facility is a home without cages, allowing the cats to mingle and connect as they want. The animals’ surroundings are stress-free, with many soft beds, climbing frames, and sunny windowsills.

Blind Cat Rescue and Sanctuary North Carolina

North Carolina’s Blind Cat Rescue & Sanctuary (BCR) has created a unique and magical haven for blind and special-needs cats.

BCR was established in 2005 with the vision of providing a loving environment where disabled cats wouldn’t have to be put down just because they couldn’t see or had other issues they may have had. Specializing in ethical practices and advanced care, this sanctuary has become a beacon of hope for differently-abled cats.

BCR has everything its feline residents need to feel comfortable and happy - there are several indoor rooms and safe outdoor areas in the sanctuary where cats can play or relax. The emphasis is on creating an environment that meets the needs of these animals through various sensory enrichment activities and cozy places for resting.

BCR also aims to sensitize people about the benefits of adopting cats and giving them a second chance. Which cat sanctuary would you most like to visit? We bet it’s Hawaii. These incredible and ethical shelters for cats show how concerned care and kindness are essential in influencing the lives of desperate cats.

Well that was fun…now Click on the links in the article to see where it takes you.

Until our next cat convo

-MARTIN

Budget-Friendly Tips for Feeding and Caring for Your Cat as a Student

As a student, managing expenses can be a challenging task, especially when it comes to caring for a furry friend like a cat. However, with a little creativity and smart planning, you can provide your feline companion with the love and care they deserve without breaking the bank. Caring for a pet can teach valuable lessons in responsibility and time management, making it a rewarding experience despite the financial constraints. If you find yourself struggling to balance your studies and personal life, consider seeking assistance from Academized essay writing service, which can help alleviate some of the academic workload, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your life, such as caring for your pet. You can also find Academized reviewed on online student blogs. 

Prioritize Nutritional Value

Cats are obligate carnivores, which means they require a diet rich in animal-based proteins. While premium cat food can be expensive, you can find affordable options that provide the necessary nutrients.

• Look for brands that prioritize quality ingredients without excessive fillers or by-products. 

• Consider purchasing larger bags or cans to save money in the long run. 

• Buy in bulk when there are sales or discounts. 

• Check for coupons or loyalty programs at pet stores. 

• Opt for store brands or private label brands, which can offer comparable quality at a lower cost. 

Proper nutrition is essential for your cat's overall health and well-being. By being mindful of ingredient lists and focusing on balanced meals, you can ensure your furry friend thrives without overspending.

Homemade Cat Treats (Example)

One cost-effective way to indulge your cat is by making homemade treats. For instance, you can bake simple treats using ingredients like cooked chicken or tuna, oatmeal, and eggs. Not only are these treats budget-friendly, but you can also ensure they are free from harmful additives.

To make homemade cat treats, simply mix the ingredients together, roll out the dough, and cut it into bite-sized pieces. Bake them until they are firm and let them cool completely before serving. Homemade treats can be a healthy and affordable way to show your cat some extra love.

Litter Box Alternatives

DIY Litter Box Solutions

Litter boxes can be a significant expense, especially if you have multiple cats. Consider making your own litter box by repurposing large plastic storage containers or cardboard boxes lined with trash bags. This DIY solution can save you money while still providing your cat with a clean and comfortable litter area.

Litter Alternatives

Clumping clay litter can be costly, but there are several affordable alternatives to explore. Experiment with different litter options to find the best fit for your cat's preferences and your budget. Remember to scoop the litter box regularly and replace the litter as needed to maintain a clean and healthy environment for your feline friend.

Grooming and Playtime

• Buy grooming tools in bulk or look for secondhand options. 

• Make your own cat toys from household items like cardboard boxes, paper bags, and string. 

"Cats are often happier playing with an empty box or a piece of string than with an expensive, store-bought toy." - Pam Johnson-Bennett, Certified Cat Behavior Consultant

• Set aside dedicated playtime each day to bond with your cat and provide mental stimulation. 

• Use a simple piece of string or a laser pointer to engage your cat in interactive play sessions. 

• Create a DIY cat tree or scratching post using inexpensive materials like cardboard or sisal rope. 

Regular grooming and playtime not only keep your cat happy and healthy but also strengthen the bond between you and your furry friend.

Preventive Care and Vet Visits

Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial for your cat's health, but the costs can add up quickly. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Look for low-cost or student-discounted vet clinics in your area. 

• Inquire about wellness plans or pet insurance to spread out the costs. 

• Stay up-to-date on vaccinations and preventive care to avoid more expensive treatments down the line. 

• Learn how to perform basic grooming and health checks at home to catch potential issues early. 

• Maintain a clean and safe living environment for your cat to prevent accidents or illnesses. 

By prioritizing preventive care, you can potentially save money in the long run by avoiding costly medical treatments for preventable conditions.

Practical Example: DIY Cat Scratching Post

One of the most cost-effective DIY projects for cat owners is a homemade scratching post. All you need is a sturdy log or piece of wood, some sisal rope (available at most hardware stores), and a sturdy base. Wrap the rope tightly around the log, securing it with wood glue or hot glue, and you've got a customized scratching post for your feline friend.

Not only is a DIY scratching post budget-friendly, but it also provides your cat with a designated area to scratch and stretch, which can help preserve your furniture and carpets. You can even personalize the scratching post by adding catnip or decorative elements to make it more enticing for your furry companion.

Foster a Welcoming Environment

Beyond the essentials like food, litter, and healthcare, creating a comfortable and enriching environment for your cat is equally important. Here are some tips:

• Provide cozy sleeping areas with soft bedding or blankets. 

• Set up designated play areas with cat-friendly toys and scratching posts. 

• Ensure your living space is cat-proofed by removing potential hazards or toxins. 

• Introduce cat-safe plants or create a "cat garden" using pet-friendly herbs like catnip or wheat grass. 

A welcoming and stimulating environment can go a long way in keeping your cat happy, healthy, and engaged, all while being mindful of your budget as a student.

Remember, being a responsible pet owner means prioritizing your cat's well-being while being mindful of your budget. With a little creativity and effort, you can provide a loving and nurturing environment for your feline friend without breaking the bank. Embrace the challenges and joys of caring for a furry companion during your student years, as it can teach valuable life lessons and enrich your overall experience.

Well that was fun…now Click on the links in the article to see where it takes you.

Until our next cat convo

-MARTIN

Most Popular Types of Pets in Canada

The domestication of animals is a human trait, dating back to the prehistoric world. At the time, of course, taming wild beasts and breeding them to suit the needs of humans was done out of survival. However, in the modern age, survival is not a primary concern. Today, we just own pets because they are sweet, friendly, and can often make a difference on a bad day. 

Canada is an incredibly pet-friendly country, with a lot of households owning some form of pet or another. In this article, we would like to explore the different types of pets that are popular in Canada, and talk a bit about the animals’ histories and how they came to be such a popular bet option.  

Dogs

Man’s best friend is one of the most notable pets around the world. Believe it or not, dogs were first domesticated by humans more than 30,000 years ago. Many archeologists believe that the dog was the first animal to be domesticated by man, as they could help with hunting down prey, as well as protecting the home. 

Throughout history, dogs have served women and men loyally, and in turn, humans have loved dogs immensely. Notable examples of the historical love between humans and dogs can be seen in historical and archeological records, such as the famous, or rather infamous inscription that a Roman citizen left on his dog’s gravestone, that reads “Here lies my best friend.”

Dogs have also inspired art. We are all familiar with the famous paintings by Cassius Coolidge, portraying different dogs playing poker. The paintings capture the atmosphere of a land-based casino of the time perfectly. Of course, most today would be far more familiar with online casinos. 

Gambling sites nowadays offer similar games to land-based casinos. However, there are plenty of added benefits. For example, online casinos come with a selection of no deposit bonuses, that could help new gamblers start playing and understanding games like poker, blackjack, or baccarat a little better.

And speaking of casinos, plenty of online slots also feature a canine theme. Symbols are replaced with bones, and the mascots are either cute pups or proud hounds. Despite all that, dogs are not Canada’s most popular animal. Though, at 7.9 million pet dogs, they are definitely in the top two. But, if not dogs, then what is Canada’s favorite animal?

Cats

The relationship between cats and humans began 10,000 – 12,000 years ago. Historians and archeologists have concluded that it started in the Fertile Crescent parts of West Asia, an area often considered the origin point for human civilization and society. 

Exactly how cats were domesticated, nobody knows. However, the reasons seem obvious. Cats are much nimbler than dogs, and are predisposed to capturing smaller prey. Rodents, vermin, and other pests were out of a dog’s league, which is where the cat stepped in. 

Throughout human history, cats have had just as unique a relationship with humans as dogs. In Ancient Egypt, the cat was famously a religious symbol, and we can often see cats in Ancient Egyptian art and script. 

At many points throughout the ancient world and the medieval era, cats were seen as a status symbol. The royals would have a dog to accompany them for hunts, and a cat that would keep the house clean. Today, however, cats are primarily kept as indoor animals, though many argue in favor of outdoor cats.

Though many people believe that taking care of a cat is simple, the truth is that it can get quite complicated at times. That is why there are many expert tips for taking care of kittens and cats, that can help new pet owners out when they feel overwhelmed. 

In Canada, cats are the most popular pet. Though neck-in-neck with their canine rivals, cats outperform them in popularity, with a total of 8,5 million pet cats throughout the country. We can certainly understand this, as Canada’s colder climate is often difficult to walk in, and taking dogs out on a walk is an absolute necessity. 

Birds and Fish

Birds and fish are the fourth and third most common pet choice in Canada. The domestication of birds is an interesting one. Of course, most fowl were domesticated for farming purposes. Chickens, geese, ducks, and guinea hens had all been domesticated by 1000 BCE, with chickens being the first. 

However, few looked at these animals as pets, and even today, most bird owners don’t own chickens or geese, but rather parrots, canaries, or similar song birds. Though the domestication of canaries is relatively recent, dating back to the 15th century, parrots have been kept as pets far longer.

The first evidence of a parrot as a pet comes from Brazil, and dates back 5000 years ago. In Europe, they appeared more than 2000 years ago, when Alexander the Great’s armies brought parrots back from India, to show to their fellow countrymen.

Fish, on the other hand are a relatively new pet option in the western world. However, in China fishkeeping dates back to 500 AD. The Chinese emperor of the time had a fascination with Gibel carp, and instructed his court to take care of a few select members of the species. 

Today, in Canada, fish are the third most popular option, with the standard orange-hued gold fish being the primary choice. However, when most people keep fish, they don’t just pick one. Rather, they fill up a whole aquarium with diverse fish of different colors.

Parrots are the most popular choice for bird in Canada, unsurprisingly so. They are colorful, friendly, and humans have long been fascinated by their ability to mimic human language. Parakeets are, by far, the most popular choice. 

Final Thoughts

The love that humans share for their animals can truly be heart-warming. However, it also needs to be said that a pet is a big responsibility, and undertaking such a responsibility should always come with a degree of preparation. Getting a pet should be done, only if all parties involved are certain that they are willing and able to take care of one.

Well that was fun…now Click on the links in the article to see where it takes you.

Until our next cat convo

-MARTIN

Pet Parenthood: Navigating the Responsibilities and Joys of Raising a Dog

Deciding to take a furry friend home is a heartfelt decision full of immense responsibilities and joys. Before such a major plunge, prospective pet parents should assess the kind of lifestyle they have, the living environment, and the preparedness they have financially to make room for a dog. Research the breeds, understand what is needed, and most importantly, secure the commitment of giving lifetime care to your pet. Having a safe and pleasant home, setting up routines and consistency, in turn, promotes building a strong bond through patience and empathy for a harmonious relationship filled with love with your canine friend.

The decision to bring a dog into your home

Deciding to bring a dog into a home is a rather responsible task and needs thinking. Apart from the excitement, prospective pet parents are to assess their lifestyles, living, and financial conditions to be ready to provide loving and supportive environments. Also, peek at the breeds and their specific requirements and determine if you can satisfy them. That’s very important, especially when having a new dog at home; you will surely have a happy and fulfilling pet-parent relationship. Responsible pet ownership involves dedication, patience, and a lifelong commitment to your furry companion.

Setting up your home for a dog

Create a safe and comfortable living space for a new canine companion for his well-being and happiness. Prepare the house for a dog by puppy-proofing the space: this will involve elimination from harm and securing toxic things. Provide the dog with appropriate bedding and toys. This will help them know their feeding and sleeping areas, easing them up and helping with training, development, and routine. It will, most importantly, ensure a good relationship with your pet.

Daily care and training

The following are consistent daily care and positive training practices, which are the keys to sound pet ownership. With this feeding, exercise, grooming, and playtime routine, dogs have a sense of security and proper nurturing. Training sessions of basic commands, socialization, and reinforcing behaviors through the bond between pet and parent can prepare a well-behaved, happy canine companion. Reminder: these three ingredients, patience, constancy, and positive reinforcement, are the only effective way of slow baking the process of shaping your dog’s behavior and general well-being.

Building a strong bond with your dog

And finally, deep, lasting ties with your most loyal friend do not just develop; they are wonderful, rewarding journeys filled with time, patience, and genuine affection. Doing such things as walking, playing, or training together makes your connection stronger, enhancing the time spent together doing things that please your dog. Understanding your dog’s very individual personality, preferences, and communication signals opens the doors for a trusting, two-way relationship. Be patient, understanding, and respectful to strengthen the bond filled with love enjoyed by both parties.

Surely, the decision to have a dog at home cannot be made on a whim, definitely not without much careful consideration and commitment to giving love and stability. Prepare your living space with puppy-proofing, get into care and training routines, and devote time to forging a relationship with your new four-legged friend. Remember, being a responsible pet parent calls for patience, consistency, and real affection that is given from the heart but returned in multiples, eventually turning again into both your lives.

Now also talking about dogs…go Click on the links and pics in the article to see where it takes you.

Until our next PET convo

-MARTIN

The Healing Power of CBD: A New Hope for Dogs with Cancer

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the potential healing power of CBD (cannabidiol) for various health conditions, and this interest extends to everyone’s beloved four-legged companions. Dogs, in particular, have benefited from CBD as a natural alternative to alleviate various ailments, including cancer. This article delves into the promising potential of CBD in offering hope and relief to dogs diagnosed with cancer, exploring the science behind it, its benefits, and how it’s making a difference in the lives of furry friends and their owners.

Understanding CBD and Its Mechanism:

To comprehend how cbd for dogs with cancer can aid in their well-being, it’s crucial to understand what it is and how it works. CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a non-psychoactive compound derived from the cannabis plant. It interacts with the endocannabinoid system, which regulates various bodily functions, including immune response, inflammation, and pain perception.

Reducing Pain and Discomfort:

One of the most remarkable advantages of it is its ability to ease the pain and discomfort linked to the disease. Cancer frequently induces discomfort through inflammation and pressure on adjacent tissues. It can mitigate this by reducing inflammation and serving as a natural pain reliever, enhancing the dog’s comfort throughout treatment.

Managing Anxiety and Stress:

A cancer diagnosis can instill anxiety and stress in dogs and their caring owners. It has demonstrated its potential in alleviating anxiety and fostering a state of tranquility in dogs. This is especially significant during treatment, as a composed and stress-free dog may exhibit improved responses to therapies.

Boosting Appetite and Nausea Control:

Cancer treatments can sometimes result in a loss of appetite and bouts of nausea in dogs, which can, in turn, undermine their overall well-being. It can play a role in stimulating their appetite and mitigating nausea, enabling them to sustain a healthy weight and enhance their quality of life throughout their treatment.

Supporting the Immune System:

A robust immune system is crucial for dogs battling cancer. It has been suggested to have immune-boosting properties, which can help dogs fight the disease more effectively. Modulating the immune response may enhance the body’s natural ability to combat cancer cells.

Case Studies and Success Stories:

There have been numerous heartwarming stories of dogs with cancer experiencing significant improvements in their condition after incorporating it into their treatment plans. These anecdotal accounts are backed by emerging research that indicates the potential benefits of it in cancer management for dogs.

Dosage and Safety Considerations:

When considering using cbd for dogs with cancer, consulting with a veterinarian experienced in holistic or integrative medicine is essential. They can guide the appropriate dosage and ensure that the chosen product is safe and of high quality. Using it as a complementary therapy alongside conventional cancer treatments rather than a replacement is crucial.

Conclusion:

The healing power of this offers a new ray of hope for dogs diagnosed with cancer. By alleviating pain and discomfort, reducing anxiety, stimulating appetite, and bolstering the immune system, it can significantly enhance the quality of life for dogs confronting this formidable disease. While the science behind its benefits for dogs with cancer is still evolving, the numerous success stories and positive outcomes are promising.

Being a responsible pet owner, it’s crucial to approach CBD therapy for dogs with cancer with due persistence and seek advice from a qualified veterinarian. When administered with proper guidance and care, it can complement their treatment regimen, offering comfort and support throughout their battle against cancer. As ongoing research reveals more about its extensive potential, there’s renewed optimism that furry ones can confront their cancer diagnosis with grit and resilience, supported by the therapeutic properties of this remarkable compound.

Well that was fun…now Click on the links in the article to see where it takes you.

Until our next cat convo

-MARTIN