Common Myths: Pet Health and Safety
There are lots of myths prevalent in our society related to the health of cats and dogs. Pet owners, who believe in them many a time, put the lives of their pets in danger.It is always good to consult a vet or a pet expert before believing any of these. Some of the common pet myths related to cats and dogs include:
- Myth 1- Tail wagging - sign of happiness- Many dog owners believe if their dog is wagging his tail, he is happy. In most of the cases, yes this is true. However, psychologists say that a dog wag his tail when he sees a living being, like a human, another dog or pet, etc. A dog could also wiggle his tail when he is angry or irritated. If you have taken up a pet care job, make sure you understand the behavior of your client's dog.
- Myth 2 - Bad breath in dogs is natural - This is also a very common myth among dog owners. According to them, it is ok if the dog’s mouth produces a bad odor. However, in reality, it could be an alarm to dog safety. It could be a sign of tarter or bacteria being built up inside his mouth. You should take him to the vet for his dental check up.
- Myth 3 - Dog should eat bones - Not all kinds of bones are good for your dog. Some can splinter and may injure his throat or choke him. Give him a soft chewable toy or rawhide instead.
- Myth 4 - Dogs see in black and white only - Another very popular myth that people think dogs can only see in black and white. This is false. Veterinary Ophthalmologists have confirmed that the dogs are just red and orange colorblind; they have receptors for blue and green colors.
- Myth 5 - Pregnant women shouldn’t own cats - Pregnant women could keep cats. There is a disease in cats called toxoplasmosis, which spreads to the humans upon coming in contact with the cat’s excreta. Cat owners should be cautious regarding this. It can spread to any human. Regular cat grooming is a must if you wish to own a cat.
- Myth 6 - Cat should drink milk - No, this is false. Cats are lactose intolerant and therefore, should not be given milk. However, few cats like milk but is should be given in less quantity.
- Myth 7 - Cats does not like socializing - Cats like any other pet, love company too. They do not like to be left alone.
- Myth 8 - Cats suck a baby breath - The reality is that a cat gets attracted to babies and like to lay beside them. You need to keep your cat under supervision before letting her get near any baby.
- Myth 9 - Cat purrs only when she is happy - Cat can purr when she is happy or in pain. It is not necessary that she only purrs when she is happy.
- Myth 10 - Cats are more intelligent than dogs - This myth is prevalent because cats are considered to be manipulative and mysterious. However, this is not true. The truth is both the animals are smart in their own ways. It is foolishness to compare them with each other.
In a nutshell, pet sitters should analyze what is a myth and what is the correct advice. Check our site regularly to hone your knowledge on pet care.