One of our customers asked us how we developed ThePetCheckup…how the idea came about.

Here is the story posted in the articles section of the website.  My black cat Oliver really did inspire the idea to develop the product.

http://www.thepetcheckup.com/articles/storyofpetcheckup.html

Dogs and cats who are on a high protein diet will usually show a trace amount of protein in their urine test.  My cat Belle was on a special diet which was high in protein and she always tested “trace” on the protein parameter.  My veterinarian said it was due to her high protein diet and to contact him if it ever went above trace (which it never did).

Her annual blood work always came out normal as well, so it was great to be able to keep such a close eye on her test results.

Some people are surprised to know how common urinary tract infections are in puppies.  There are some specific reasons for this:

Since puppies are usually in the process of being potty-trained, having an accident in the house may not be the red flag it would be with an older dog.  That enables the untreated urinary tract infection to become more serious.

Another reason is due to the high energy level of puppies.  If they are not drinking enough water, the urine in the bladder becomes more concentrated and that can lead to an infection.

Not getting your dog spayed can also lead to urinary tract infections. The pH changes as your female dog goes through puberty.  Getting your pup fixed before the first heat will prevent this imbalance.

Since the beginning of the year, over 120 dolphins have stranded on Cape Cod.  I love to read the Cape Cod paper online everyday, but it is really heartbreaking to see that the strandings keep continuing.

IFAW (International Fund for Animal Welfare) and many volunteers are doing an amazing job to save as many dolphins as they can.  And several of the released dolphins have headed out to deep water and more have been recorded up by the Maine coast.

There are several possible theories regarding this mass stranding, and scientists will continue to study the situation.  There most likely are several factors that are contributing to the stranding of these beautiful animals that live in a sea of man-made pollution. I hope NSTAR is taking note and re-evaluating their position of spraying chemicals needlessly and irresponsibly around their power lines.

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!!