"Hi, my name is Cricket. My human is the owner of All About You Pet Care. She takes me with her sometimes to visit with our Extended Furry Family. It's great for me because I am still young and it's always good to socialize. Plus my furry friends want to have Puppy Playtime too. Here are some pictures of our Tail Waggin' Good Time!"

Cricket's Column:
"Dear Cricket, my dog likes to eat grass and other various plants. Is this harmful for him?"

Cricky Responds:
Some grass munching is okay. Most vets aren't really sure why they do it. Some dogs dive right for the grass, eat it then vomit it back up. It's believed that they are taking care of their own stomach upset. Some vets believe they may just like the taste. The general thought is let them but only if the grass is untreated by pesticides or fertilizer. If there is excessive vomiting seek medical advice.

There are many plants that are harmful. Ingesting just a very small amount can have drastic consequences. Like vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, shock or even death.
A few of these plants are: Azalea, Hyacinth/Tulip bulbs, Yucca, Cyclamen, and Iris. Lilies are especially toxic to cats. If you are unsure if your pet has ingested something toxic contact:
ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at
1-888-426-4435 or
Pet Poison Helpline at
1-800-213-6680

Still it's really good practice to keep an eye out for what your pet is putting in it's mouth. My brother Ike likes to eat anything from socks, rags, rocks, matchbox cars and small logs, despite my human family trying to make sure he doesn't find these things. I think he has a hidden stash somewhere. Anyway, he ate one of my little toys and it got stuck in his  intestines. He had to have surgery and part of his intestines removed. So it's not only something they eat that can be toxic it could be something that can get stuck. Luckily he healed well but still tries to eat everything. FYI - Dogs don't learn their lessons like people do.

Bye for now, Cricket

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