We recommend testing your dog or cat’s urine first thing in the morning.  Results are generally more reliable.

For example, nitrite which is an indicator of a bacteria infection may show a negative result if the urine was not in the bladder for at least 4 hours.

Specific gravity, which is the ratio of the weight of urine compared to the weight of an equal amount of water can vary before and after exercise. (This is especially important in comparing test results for your dog).

Testing the same time of day each time you test and recording your results on the results page will give you an easy way to compare any changes that may appear over time.

Another great testimonial from Texas:

Your product just saved my cat’s life!  Time for a refill.

C.D., Katy, TX

We received another wonderful testimonial from our long-time customer who has a special needs cat called Miracle Pig.  We are so pleased that ThePetCheckup is helping her keep Pig healthy.

“Pig recently tested positive for blood in her urine.  A subsequent test at the vet showed some bacteria.  We caught this infection early, thanks to ThePetCheckup.  I couldn’t be more thankful!” S.M., East Haven, CT

Nice to hear!  Just read an article that Willie Nelson contacted an OH senate committee to support their House Bill 14 which eliminates breed-specific language from their current dog ordinance.

He stated the current law discriminates against dogs who share certain physical characteristics by labeling them vicious ” with no regard to their individual behavior.”

The bill passed the House in the spring of 2011 and is now being considered by the Senate.

A returning customer sent a very nice testimonial this week:

“Miracle Pig is a handicapped cat who was hit by a car and paralyzed in 2006. But Pig’s handicap has not slowed her down. These days, she even has her own wheelchair! Pig is a healthy, happy cat, and your tests help me to make sure she stays that way. And I truly appreciate it!”  S.M., East Haven, CT

There is now a new page on Facebook ~ Virtual Village Shelter~ where dogs and cats in Van Buren county, Iowa in need of  homes will be posted.  This will be a great help for these animals as there is no physical shelter in this county and it is difficult to get the word out.

The first dog has just been posted and he looks like a real sweetheart.  He is young, friendly with people, dogs and cats and just needs to find his home.

I hope it is soon!!

There are many things we can do to practice preventative health care with our dogs and cats. Some, such as using ThePetCheckup, are best to do once per month.  Other things are as simple as keeping an observant eye over any changes in your animal’s behavior or appearance.

Dogs and cats like people can have an off day, but there are many conditions which left untreated can create serious illness quite quickly with no fanfare.  The common urinary tract infection, for instance, if left untreated can develop into a kidney infection which has the potential to become quite serious. Blockages can form - either partial or complete – and lead to a rupture of the bladder.

Like we always say:  It is always better to catch an illness at an early stage, than have to treat a more serious condition later on.

We receive alot of wonderful feedback from our customers, and I always tell them that even if ThePetCheckup does not detect an imbalance, peace of mind is a wonderful benefit.  A simple way to keep closer watch over our companion’s  health.

“Hi. I wanted to let you know your product is wonderful.  I always tell my vets about it and hope that they will incorporate it into their practices. It’s such a nice feeling to take extra care of your pet while at the same time keeping them comfortable at home.” M.B., Boston, MA

There is a wonderful video of a young man who rescued a baby hummingbird after the little bird was attacked.  One of the sweetest things ever.  His rescuer provides more information on the link too….it’s a proud day for the human race!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LvrcdQWzH-8

There are several possible causes of urinary tract infections in cats–they can be bacterial, fungal, parasitic and possibly viral.  However, it is estimated that about 50% are Ideopathic –  meaning the cause is not known.

There are some similarities with this condition and a similar condition in humans called Interstitial Cystitis….most commonly traced back to a stressful event.