Distinctly Montana Magazine

bridger feeds Both cats and dogs do better having their own space SOLD EXCLUSIVELY AT BRIDGER FEEDS STORES EAST BOZEMAN FOUR CORNERS 501 EVERGREEN DR. (406) 586-3026 186 GARDEN DR. (406) 586-8990 www.bridgerfeeds.com MON - FRI 9 -6 SAT 9 - 5 With the sale or purchase of your home, % of net commissions go to local animal shelters in Montana. 5 tive ears; and of course rinse thoroughly…all suds out! If you want to bathe your cat, keep in mind that most cats will not appreciate your efforts so exercise caution. Longhaired cats and dogs should be brushed daily to avoid mats. If burrs become lodged in the fur, get them out ASAP using silicone-based grooming sprays. Nails of both cats and dogs need to be trimmed regularly, using caution to avoid "wicking them" (often groomers or vets will allow walk-ins for this service.) Keeping indoor cats' nails trimmed back helps with furniture scratching and is a must for older dogs that may begin to slip on hard surfaces due to foot degeneration. Pets need a place of their own: Both cats and dogs do better having their own space, where they can take refuge from too much stimulation (like a vacuum or hyperactive child), where they can hide their favorite toys, and feel safe and settled. It could be a round cuddle bed for a kitty or maybe a spot under their favorite person's bed. Dogs often do very well with a crate or kennel with soft blankets, towels or a bed in it — so long as none of the bedding poses a blockage threat to a "chewer." A pet should never be reprimanded in its "place." They may get sent there or put there, but it is always a "safe place," a "home base," or timeout if you will. If you travel with your pet, make sure your pet's "place" is also portable; this will insure they know where to be when in a strange place. Climate control. When it comes to seasonal changes, be considerate of your pets. Never leave animals in cars in the summer; don't even take them with you unless you have A/C. Provide a shady spot for them to get out of the sun with lots of water. In the winter, pets need shelter from the wind and cold. Most of us will have ours indoors with us so keep in mind that dry warmth can do the same thing to them that it does to us: dry out skin. Winter is a great time to add some fish oils to your pet's food to help combat the winter "itchies." If your older cat or dog is soothed by the heat of a fireplace or heating pad, be sure they have room to move away from it and have lots of fresh water to drink. Remember, dogs and cats can't regulate their body temperatures like we can. Applying common sense to daily activities with your pet like proper feeding, regular exercise, cleanliness, a safe space of their own, fresh water, love, and play can go a long way in extending the years of joy you can share. smalldogrealty@gmail.com www.smalldogrealty.com DISTINCTL MONTANA | DIGITAL Y 62 Tips for getting your cat to the vet, go to: www.distinctlymontana.com/catvet141 distinctly montana • winter 2014

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