tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-84355283994884475112024-03-13T12:58:06.025-07:00Chronicles of Creature ComfortsPaulFlotronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306725962768179023noreply@blogger.comBlogger126125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8435528399488447511.post-74010161365969054852014-04-08T20:32:00.002-07:002014-04-08T20:32:46.409-07:002014 Creature Comforts Picnic & Pet Food Drive<div class="body undoreset" id="yui_3_13_0_1_1397011500105_8068">
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Hi Friends!</div>
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<br /></div>
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As
we all know how quickly time passes, I am sure you can appreciate the
importance of planning in advance. Especially when an organized event
is involved. I will soon begin planning for the 2014 Creature Comforts
Client Appreciation Picnic & Pet Food Drive. I intend to have the
event around the same time as last year (middle of Septebmer).</div>
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Ensuring
that the +/2014 Creature Comforts Picnic and Pet Food Drive will be a
success, I would greatly appreciate your input. I welcome your
constructive comments and suggestions. Because the food, entertainment
and offerings in the 2013 event were all so great, I would like to bring
back the same in addition to the possibility of providing low cost
vaccinations and health exams at the event. </div>
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Please
let me know your thoughts on the idea of low cost vaccinations and
health exams at the 2014 Creature Comforts Picnic & Pet Food Drive.</div>
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Thanks so much for your input. Grateful for your friendship and support.</div>
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Warmly,</div>
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<br /></div>
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Paul</div>
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<br /></div>
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Paul F. Flotron</div>
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Creature Comforts Great & Small, LLC</div>
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"Giving your creatures the comfort they deserve"</div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
www.CreatureComfortsGreatnSmall.com</div>
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314-200-8561</div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
Cell: 314-775-7107</div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
PaulFFlotron@yahoo.com</div>
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<span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1397011500105_8245" style="font-size: large;"><br />(** An Excerpt of Creature Comforts Picnic & Pet Food Drive Highlights and Offerings Are Below):<br /></span><span class="yiv5664748644text_exposed_show" id="yui_3_13_0_1_1397011500105_8247"><span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1397011500105_8246" style="font-size: large;">The Creature Comforts Great & Small
Client Appreciation Picnic & Pet Food Drive</span></span><br clear="none" /><div id="yui_3_13_0_1_1397011500105_8248" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
<span class="yiv5664748644text_exposed_show" id="yui_3_13_0_1_1397011500105_8251"><span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1397011500105_8250" style="font-size: large;"><br clear="none" />to benefit those
animal rescue organizations<br clear="none" /><br clear="none" />and no-kill animal shelters that make a difference<br clear="none" /><br clear="none" /><br clear="none" /><br clear="none" />COME -
RAIN OR SHINE<br clear="none" /><br clear="none" /><br clear="none" /><br clear="none" />Bring your pets, friends and family<br clear="none" /><br clear="none" /><br clear="none" /><br clear="none" />Sunday, September 15, 2013<br clear="none" /><br clear="none" />11:00 AM – 3:00 PM<br clear="none" /><br clear="none" />Creve Coeur Park<br clear="none" /><br clear="none" /><br clear="none" /><br clear="none" />Heldman
Picnic Shelter at Creve Coeur Park - Heldman Shelter is on East Side of
Creve Coeur Mill Road overlooking across Creve Coeur Lake - Due South
of Tremayne Shelter and Immediately South of Crystal Springs Golf Center<br clear="none" /></span><span style="color: #2862c5; font-size: large;"><a href="http://hlaa.convio.net/site/DocServer/CreveCoeurParkMap.pdf?docID=941" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" target="_blank">http://hlaa.convio.net/site/DocServer/CreveCoeurParkMap.pdf?docID=941</a></span><br clear="none" /><br clear="none" /><span style="color: #333333; font-size: large;">Please bring a pet food/pet supply donation</span></span></div>
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<span class="yiv5664748644text_exposed_show"><br /></span><span class="yiv5664748644text_exposed_show"><span style="color: #333333; font-size: large;"><var id="yiv5664748644yui-ie-cursor"></var></span></span></div>
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<span class="yiv5664748644text_exposed_show"><span style="color: #333333; font-size: large;">Great Food, Entertainment & Fun</span></span></div>
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<span class="yiv5664748644text_exposed_show" id="yui_3_13_0_1_1397011500105_8255"><span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1397011500105_8254" style="color: #333333; font-size: large;">Live Music -- GC Swing Band<br clear="none" /><a href="http://www.graniteband.com/" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" target="_blank">http://www.graniteband.com/</a><br clear="none" /><br clear="none" />Workout With Your Dogs In A Free<br clear="none" /> Session With Fitness Expert Michelle Kiehne<br clear="none" />In Her Premiere Program "Best Friends Forever Fit"</span></span></div>
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<span class="yiv5664748644text_exposed_show"></span> <a href="http://www.rockstarfitnesstraining.com/best-friends-forever-fit/" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" target="_blank">http://www.rockstarfitnesstraining.com/best-friends-forever-fit/</a><br clear="none" /><br clear="none" />Dog Washing For Free<br clear="none" /><a href="http://www.johnpaulpet.com/" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" target="_blank">http://www.johnpaulpet.com/</a><br clear="none" /><br clear="none" />Great Barbecue From St. Louis
Rotisserie<br clear="none" /><a href="http://www.caterwithus.com/" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" target="_blank">http://www.caterwithus.com/</a><br clear="none" /></div>
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<span class="yiv5664748644text_exposed_show"><span style="color: #333333; font-size: large;">Attendance Prizes, Silent Auction<br /></span></span><br clear="none" /><b id="yui_3_13_0_1_1397011500105_8261"><i id="yui_3_13_0_1_1397011500105_8260"><span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1397011500105_8259" style="color: #0000bf; font-size: x-large;">Enjoy delicious barbecue catered by St. Louis Rotisserie<br clear="none" /><br clear="none" /><a href="http://www.caterwithus.com/" id="yui_3_13_0_1_1397011500105_8258" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" target="_blank">http://www.caterwithus.com/</a><br clear="none" /><br clear="none" />Great music and entertainment provided by the Granite City Swing
Band<br clear="none" /><br clear="none" />http://www.graniteband.com/<br clear="none" /><br clear="none" />Meet A Couple of Stray Rescue Dogs Available For Adoption & Meet A Stray Rescue Representative <br clear="none" /><br clear="none" />http://www.strayrescue.org/<br clear="none" /></span></i></b><br clear="none" /><b id="yui_3_13_0_1_1397011500105_8266"><i id="yui_3_13_0_1_1397011500105_8265"><span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1397011500105_8264" style="color: #0000bf; font-size: x-large;"><span class="yiv5664748644userContent" id="yui_3_13_0_1_1397011500105_8263"><span class="yiv5664748644text_exposed_show" id="yui_3_13_0_1_1397011500105_8262">You and your furry friends can learn how to be fit together. Fitness
expert Michelle Kiehne will lead you and your dog in her "Best Friends
Forever Fit" program for FREE.<br clear="none" /><br clear="none" />Best Friends Forever Fit:<br clear="none" /><br clear="none" /><a href="http://www.rockstarfitnesstraining.com/best-friends-forever-fit/" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" target="_blank">http://www.rockstarfitnesstraining.com/best-friends-forever-fit/</a></span></span><br clear="none" /><br clear="none" />Have your dogs bathed for FREE by a Paul Mitchell stylist and learn more about Paul Mitchell's pet products<br clear="none" /><br clear="none" /><a href="http://www.johnpaulpet.com/" id="yui_3_13_0_1_1397011500105_8271" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" target="_blank">http://www.johnpaulpet.com/</a></span></i></b></div>
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PaulFlotronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306725962768179023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8435528399488447511.post-26660436677379789702014-04-07T07:13:00.000-07:002014-04-07T07:13:05.286-07:00Creature Comforts and Paul Flotron In Need of Your Testimonials & Referrals<div id="yiv7146667847">
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Dear Friends!</div>
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When someone
takes the time to recount a positive experience, it speaks volumes.
And so I would like to request a small favor – a testimonial that will
give others a sense of the experience and service I offer. Whether you
are a client employing my pet care services business Creature
Comforts or a friend and fellow supporter of my work with animal rescue, pet therapy and community outreach programs, I
would appreciate you sharing some positive words.</div>
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</div>
I have
always felt that the testimonial is a powerful indicator of
excellence. I strive to provide such excellence with each and every
time I provide a service and interact with you and your pets. I
sincerely hope that describes your experience with me. This
testimonial can be as short or as long as you like. It is valuable to
my future business and, just as importantly, allows me to continuously
improve upon the level of service I provide.<div>
</div>
Recently, several clients and friends have
submitted glowing testimonials. I would be eternally
grateful if you would also share some positive words about your experience with me and Creature Comforts.<br /><div>
</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_1_1396874704568_37553">
Creature Comforts Great & Small <i id="yui_3_13_0_1_1396874704568_37554">and
I welcome feedback, grateful for constructive comments and your
favorable reviews to assess whether we're doing a good job keeping
valued customers like you happy. I am committed to providing exemplary
service.<br /><br />In addition to your testimonials, I will be eternally
grateful for spreading the word about my pet care services and Creature
Comforts. Referrals are the life-blood of my business.</i></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_1_1396874704568_37555">
</div>
<div>
Please
e-mail me your testimonials to PaulFFlotron@yahoo.com for sharing your thoughts on your experience with me and Creature
Comforts.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Examples of some of my past client testimonials
are below. I sincerely appreciate your help and look forward to
serving your needs for years to come.</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_1_1396874704568_37556">
</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_1_1396874704568_37557">
With kindest regards,</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Paul</div>
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</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_1_1396874704568_37559">
Paul F. Flotron</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_1_1396874704568_37560">
Creature Comforts Great & Small, LLC</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_1_1396874704568_37561">
"Giving your creatures the comfort they deserve"</div>
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<a href="http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.CreatureComfortsGreatnSmall.com%2F&h=vAQEP77Uv&s=1" id="yui_3_13_0_1_1396874704568_37562" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" target="_blank">http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.CreatureComfortsGreatnSmall.com%2F&h=vAQEP77Uv&s=1</a></div>
<div class="yiv7146667847yqt3530779182" id="yiv7146667847yqtfd36113">
<div id="yui_3_13_0_1_1396874704568_37564">
314-200-8561</div>
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</div>
<div>
Cell: 314-775-7107</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
E-Mail: PaulFFlotron@yahoo.com</div>
<div>
</div>
Testimonials <div id="yui_3_13_0_1_1396874704568_37567">
<b id="yui_3_13_0_1_1396874704568_37566">What Our Clients Say About Us:</b></div>
<div>
</div>
"I
have known Paul Flotron for many years and use him exclusively as a pet
sitter for our family dog. Paul is trustworthy and extremely
conscientious in providing the best possible dog sitting services.
Paul goes above and beyond what we expect and our dog looks forward to
his visits. I cannot imagine anyone providing the level of service and
care as Paul does with Creature Comforts, and I strongly recommend his
services to those considering a pet sitter."<div>
</div>
<div>
</div>
<i>-Kevin Marquitz</i><div>
</div>
"I
so appreciated your rapid response to a stranger in my hour of need.
You did, indeed, go the extra mile. Your thoroughness and
professionalism was very much appreciated."<div>
</div>
<i>-Connie Rose</i><div>
</div>
"After
meeting Paul for the first time, I felt more than 100% comfortable
entrusting my girls' care to him. I knew without a doubt that he was a
trustworthy, caring person. I could tell how much he loved
animals. He exceeded my every expectation, with frequent phone calls,
texts, and email summaries of how the girls were doing while I was
gone. Paul knew that I was nervous about leaving them, and made sure I
knew that they were being well taken care of. Paul changed his
schedule to accommodate my own, drove farther than usual, and did
everything he could to help me since my departure was last minute and
unexpected. I would recommend anyone needing a petsitter to contact
Paul Flotron, as he is great with animals, trustworthy, honest,
responsible, and will take excellent care of your pets. Creature
Comforts Great & Small, LLC went above and beyond."<div>
</div>
<div>
<i>-Cheryl</i></div>
<i>*Mommy to Prissy and Pebbles, and Foster Mommy to Ellie and Belle</i><div>
<i> </i></div>
<div>
We
moved from Chicago one year ago not knowing anyone and we were blessed
to find Paul to look after our dog Milo. Paul is very conscientious
and trustworthy. We recently lost Milo to cancer and Paul has been
wonderful and instrumental in helping us find another Boxer to adopt.
We look forward to having Paul walk our new dogs in the near future.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Richard and Mary</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
We
highly recommend Paul to take care of your pet. He was outstanding
with our little dog (she really gave him a fit, but he handled
everything beautifully). He was also highly responsible about the care
of our home while staying with our dog.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
</div>
Marlene I.<div>
</div>
A Community Outreach Testimonial:<div>
</div>
"I
was able to witness not only the spirit Paul brings to the situation,
but also the organization and teamwork. Paul has recruited an army of
volunteers to help him in this endeavor to make a difference in
people’s lives. These individuals have touched patients in our own
hospice settings. When words are too complex to reach across
limitations occurring in the minds of our patients, Paul, his army of
volunteers and pets cross that barrier with their energy and spirit of
love!"<div>
</div>
<div>
<i> </i></div>
<div>
<i>-Brenda McGarvey </i></div>
<div>
<i>Regional Volunteer Program Coordinator </i></div>
<i>Unity Hospice</i><div>
<i> </i></div>
<i><b>A Recent Client Testimonial:</b></i><div>
<i><b> </b></i></div>
<i><b>"Paul
has been taking wonderful care of my four legged kids for three
years. He has been there for me when it is a day that he is not
scheduled no questions asked. I work very long hours and am peace
knowing that he will be at my home taking care and tiring my children
out. I will always recommend Paul and his service to anyone. He cares
for my kids as if they are his."</b></i><div>
<i><b> </b></i></div>
<i><b> Nancy, Katie and Tucker.</b></i><div>
<i><b> </b></i></div>
<div>
<span> </span></div>
<div>
Client Testimonial For Creature Comforts Great & Small</div>
Submitted to Angie's List<div>
<span> </span></div>
<div>
<span><span> </span></span></div>
<div>
<span><span>"I
care for my animals very much and only want the best for them. I was
referred to Paul Flotron to take care of my beloved pets.</span><span> </span>Paul is amazing with the animals! He’s just so good. While I was gone he maintains the cleanliness of the house.<span>
Paul brought my mail and newspaper in while were we gone, and while
he's away he maintains the lived in effect. He also gave us a diary of
what he did with the dogs while we were gone everyday. The dogs were
healthy, taken care of, and walked. Paul works 7 days a week. He’s
very well spoken. He's very much dedicated to the animals, his
clients and his business. In closing, it took me 5 years and many
interviews to find someone with such high standards while valuing my
pets as much as I do. To me, that's an irreplaceable feeling<span>."</span></span></span></div>
<span> </span><span><span> Hannah & Ron</span></span></div>
</blockquote>
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</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_1_1396874704568_37568">
"Paul has been walking, house sitting, loving and caring for my two Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers for about two years. <br />
<br />
In sum, Paul is a unique, dedicated, responsible, knowledgeable, understanding, concerned, trustworthy, faithful professional.<br />
<br />
Specifically, Paul is an animal lover, who has bound his love to his
work. Always concerned and aware, he is there if and when you need him.
His concern for my pets, his constant considerations of what is needed
and his interest in making his work the best it can be, continue to
amaze me. His charges are very reasonable and I recommend him without
any reservations."<br /><br />Joyce K.<br /><br /><br />"Creature Comforts is like an assured peace of mind when my husband and I
travel, which has been quite frequently. Paul Flotron is amazingly
professional and reliable. He always keeps us posted of how the dogs are
doing and also keeps a really neat log of details for our return
reading. I would highly recommend Paul to anyone who is looking for a
reasonably priced, wonderful companion and caregiver for our dogs, and
genuinely the most hardworking, trustworthy person I know. He goes above
and beyond to assure our fur babies and home are well cared for."<br /><br />Dara H-A<br /><br /><br />"I am an apartment manager at an apartment community in Creve Coeur. We
had seen Paul walking a Golden Retriever (Penney) that resides here. We
were very impressed with how much Paul had taught Penney just in the few
weeks we saw them walking together. At our apartment community we truly
celebrate our "animal" residents!<br />
<br />
Each year when we close down our outdoor pools we allow our K-9 friends to embark on a swimming journey for the afternoon!<br />
Last year we invited Paul to attend the event, talk with our residents
and their K-9 friends and introduce himself. Paul was a big hit. <br />
<br />
When you first meet Paul, you can tell he is a gentle soul with only the
best in mind for your pet. He is extremely knowledgeable with many
animal breeds including cats, birds and reptiles.<br />
<br />
My husband and I own 2 dogs and they are our "fur kids." I would have
the utmost confidence in Paul to care for them in any way. I have had
great feedback from our residents with regard to Paul's ability, his
friendliness and his knowledge of pets and their care.<br />
<br />
Without hesitation, I would recommend Paul for any pet care you and your family may need.<br />
<br />
Regards,<br />
<br />
Chelle<br /><br />"I found Paul through a recommendation from a friend last summer and have
used him at least once a month since. The care that he gives the dogs
is second to none! My oldest dog is 14 and I have tried just about
every dog boarding facility and sitter in town and Paul is the only one I
will use from now on. I know he will write a detailed daily update,
but I prefer a daily text and they are very informative. He always has a
nice note for me when I return. My dogs are happy and my house is
spotless! You can tell he loves what he does and I never worry about my
dogs for one minute when I am gone. I am so very grateful that I
finally found someone to love my three dogs as much as I do."<br /><br />Betsy M.</div>
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PaulFlotronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306725962768179023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8435528399488447511.post-14800674723259868992014-03-05T07:18:00.001-08:002014-03-05T07:18:16.052-08:00For The Love of Pets!<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1394023879820_55317">
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Hi Friends!</div>
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Do you look forward to your dog tackling you with love every time you walk in the door? How about the calming purr of your cat as it rests on your chest? Pet owners know that their pets are special. Sometimes it's the little things that shape relationships in life, and the relationship with a pet is no different. As any pet owner knows, pets don't have the same type of hang-ups or grudges that humans have. They're perfectly willing to walk with you through life, comfort you in your troubles and cheer you on when life is grand.</div>
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<i id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1394023879820_69705">The perfect human would have the attitude of a dog -- loving, loyal, happy, protective, faithful and honest. I wish I could be more like all the dogs I know. At least the dogs I know, their attitude is admirable. From a dog's perspective, every day is the best day of their life.</i></div>
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Having pets throughout my entire life I know the happiness I have felt through my companionship with my animals? Yet, still it begs the question, why do pets make us so happy? Why is it that even though we know all the work and responsibility involved, even though we know we will have to bear the eventual heartbreak of watching our pets grow old, even though we know we will someday lose them altogether-why, then, do we still regard the prospect of sharing our homes with birds, cats or dogs (or horses, or goats, or what have you) with such unalloyed joy?</div>
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From my view, I see that humans are pack animals, and it is the way God created us to be social, to form families and to build communities. It's been essential to our survival as a species-to make others happy. Some of us experience this need to a greater extent than others, but the desire to please others is as hard-wired into us as using tools or walking on two legs.</div>
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And, despite all the seeming effort involved, the truth is that it's so easy to make an animal happy-so much easier than it seems to be to make other people happy. When my birds have their favorite food, their favorite toys, and their favorite lap to cuddle in, they're so deeply happy they practically radiate it. Their happiness isn't complicated the way human happiness is, with worries about future troubles or what they might have to offer in exchange for the happiness they've been given. There is not a concern that showing happiness too openly might make the happiness go away, the way, for example, you might not want to appear too enthusiastic in the earliest stages of a romantic relationship.</div>
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Let's take a hypothetical example. Let's say a young man has an interest in a very special lady. On one hand, he wants her to know of his feelings. After all, it has been a few years. The romantic ideal of shouting from every rooftop that this particular person is so beautiful and wonderful seems right. Yet, on the other hand, it may not be a good idea. His concern is that it may jeopardize the friendship or otherwise, it simply is not the right time. Why does it have to be so complicated? Is not life best lived with simplicity?</div>
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Do animals go through all of these "mental gymnastics?" I think not. If an animal likes you chances are you clearly know. If there is a purer, less complicated joy than that of making an animal happy, I have yet to experience it. And there's something deeply fulfilling about knowing that, even in a complicated and often unkind world, you've managed to create a pocket of perfect security and bliss for at least one small creature.</div>
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As I write this, Dudley is playing with his many toys and spiraling down the ladders on his enormous parrot play gym. At this exact moment, Sing-Sing is cozy underneath a blanket spread over and curled up in my lap, cooing away. Dudley and Sing-Sing are unaware that I've been agonizing over planning the day and weeks ahead to ensure that all pet care jobs are handled with great care or worrying about how to grow a business, pay bills, life's obligations and responsibilities and oh, so much more. </div>
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All they know right now is the tasty, delicious pasta with a little smidgen of pizza along with some alfalfa sprouts I just gave them for just a few of their favorite treats (Pasta and Pizza, which seriously must be made with the parrot equivalent of cat nip, my birds go so nuts for them! Incidentally, they go crazy for nuts too), and Sing-Sing's favorite perching spot on the parrot play gym just got freed up now that Dudley just left to have some more pizza and pasta. Dudley hails from Central and South America, so he is Latin and Sing-Sing is from Australia and New Zealand....so, I am still trying to teach Dudley to say "Hola, Buenos dias" and Sing-Sing to say "G'day Mate." I might as well just give up as I think they both have more Italian in them judging by how much they love pizza and pasta....so, I'll just teach them to say "mangiare."</div>
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Some days, it's good to be a bird.....</div>
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May your day be filled with creature comforts and love shared with your pets!</div>
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Warmly,</div>
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Paul</div>
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Paul F. Flotron</div>
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Creature Comforts Great & Small, LLC</div>
<div>
"Giving your creatures the comfort they deserve"</div>
<div>
<a href="http://www.creaturecomfortsgreatnsmall.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.creaturecomfortsgreatnsmall.com/</a></div>
<div>
314-200-8561</div>
<div>
Cell: 314-775-7107</div>
<div>
<a href="mailto:PaulFFlotron@yahoo.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" ymailto="mailto:PaulFFlotron@yahoo.com">PaulFFlotron@yahoo.com</a></div>
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PaulFlotronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306725962768179023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8435528399488447511.post-48342395560469358282014-03-03T10:15:00.002-08:002014-03-03T10:15:42.314-08:00Today Is World Wildlife Day!<div id="yiv3742248461yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1393861858625_5827">
Dear Friends!</div>
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<div class="yiv3742248461ms__id9551 ms__id14118" id="yiv3742248461yui_3_13_0_ym1_8_1393861858625_11" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.66px; font-style: normal;">
Today is World Wildlife Day. I am a very passionate man. I am passionate about animals and dedicating my entire life to creating awareness ensuring that each animal is afforded the best life possible. For my entire life, I have had a deep appreciation and empathy for the underdog. Being a voice for the voiceless is my lifelong commitment. In tribute to World Wildlife Day, here are videos to briefly outline what setting aside this day means:</div>
<div class="yiv3742248461ms__id1022 yiv3742248461ms__id9552 ms__id14119" id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1393867097280_18925" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-style: normal;">
<span class="yiv3742248461watch-title yiv3742248461long-title yiv3742248461yt-uix-expander-head" dir="ltr" id="yiv3742248461eow-title" title="Message from the CITES Secretary-General for World Wildlife Day"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="yiv3742248461ms__id1022 yiv3742248461ms__id9553 ms__id14120" id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1393867097280_18928" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-style: normal;">
<span class="yiv3742248461watch-title yiv3742248461long-title yiv3742248461yt-uix-expander-head" dir="ltr" id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1393867097280_18927" title="Message from the CITES Secretary-General for World Wildlife Day"><span id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1393867097280_18926" style="font-size: medium;">Message from the CITES Secretary-General for World Wildlife Day</span></span></div>
<div class="yiv3742248461ms__id1022 yiv3742248461ms__id9554 ms__id14121" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-style: normal;">
<span class="yiv3742248461watch-title yiv3742248461long-title yiv3742248461yt-uix-expander-head" dir="ltr" title="Message from the CITES Secretary-General for World Wildlife Day"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KsRRpfP-hKc" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KsRRpfP-hKc</a></span></span></div>
<div class="yiv3742248461ms__id1022 yiv3742248461ms__id9555 ms__id14122" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-style: normal;">
<span class="yiv3742248461watch-title yiv3742248461long-title yiv3742248461yt-uix-expander-head" dir="ltr" title="Message from the CITES Secretary-General for World Wildlife Day"><br /></span></div>
<div class="yiv3742248461ms__id1022 yiv3742248461ms__id9556 ms__id14123" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.66px; font-style: normal;">
<span class="yiv3742248461watch-title yiv3742248461long-title yiv3742248461yt-uix-expander-head" dir="ltr" title="Kuki Gallmann, CMS Ambassador, on World Wildlife Day 2014"><span style="font-size: medium;">Kuki Gallmann, CMS Ambassador, on World Wildlife Day 2014</span></span></div>
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<span class="yiv3742248461watch-title yiv3742248461long-title yiv3742248461yt-uix-expander-head" dir="ltr" title="Kuki Gallmann, CMS Ambassador, on World Wildlife Day 2014"><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3jSJm_VBqx8" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3jSJm_VBqx8</a></span></div>
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<span class="yiv3742248461watch-title yiv3742248461long-title yiv3742248461yt-uix-expander-head" dir="ltr" title="Kuki Gallmann, CMS Ambassador, on World Wildlife Day 2014"><br /></span></div>
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In honor of World Wildlife Day, I would like to discuss how we as humans can make a difference in the lives of animals. Every single day, I am faced with a serious responsibility, a privilege and a moral dilemma. As many of you know, I have two beautiful birds as my animal companions. Dudley is a Yellow-Nape Amazon Parrot I adopted and rescued over 21 years ago and today is around 33 years old. Sing-Sing is an Umbrella Cockatoo I welcomed into my home when I lived in Southern California in 2006. At the time, Sing-Sing was only 10-months and now 8 years old.</div>
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To make a distinction, I use the word “companion” when I refer to a “pet” parrot because that is what they are and that is how they must be viewed. Parrots are inherently flock animals and since we have removed them from their native habitat, it is very important that we do our best to replicate what they have lost by living in our homes. I have become a part of Dudley and Sing-Sing's flock and it is my job to learn how that impacts Dudley and Sing-Sing. As their flock leader, I also need to remember that parrots are still wild animals. They have been tamed, but they are genetically still wild and function from that point of view.</div>
<div class="yiv3742248461ms__id9562 ms__id14129" id="yiv3742248461yui_3_13_0_ym1_8_1393861858625_34" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.66px; font-style: normal;">
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I have a heightened awareness over the responsibility for wild animals since I have two wild but tamed animals living in my own home. So, what how should we as humans treat, manage and be responsible for wildlife and wildlife conservation?</div>
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What should we protect when managing and conserving wildlife? There's no single answer. Competing values, and different prioritizations of values create ethical dilemmas and disagreements.</div>
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Wild animals have always been a critical resource for human beings. Historically, food, fur, and leather were key to human survival — more recently, wildlife has assumed high economic and cultural significance. Wild animals provide entertainment in circuses, zoos, and wildlife parks, they form a central attraction in international tourism, and they are key members of ecosystems on which humans rely for vital services. Equally, wild animals can be seen as threatening to human beings; for instance, they can be sources of new human diseases (zoonotics), and they can damage or consume human crops. What matters here, whether as resource or threat, is how useful — or otherwise — wildlife is to human beings. Environmental ethicists often call this <i>instrumental</i> value.</div>
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In modern debates about wildlife, however, other values have become increasingly important. One focus is on animal welfare — the wellbeing of individual wild animals (e.g., in terms of animals' flourishing, or suffering). There are also concerns about protecting species or populations of wild animals, about protecting the ecosystems of which wild animals form a part, and about protecting wild nature itself. The wellbeing of individual animals matters less where species, ecosystems, or wild nature is emphasized — indeed, painful predation may be understood as promoting ecosystem health, or as applying the right kind of selective pressure on a species as a whole.</div>
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In response to pressures on wild animals and their habitats, a nature and wildlife protection movement has grown over the last two centuries. Often this protection has taken the form of active wildlife management, where some species are controlled as part of a policy to promote the success of other species. This raises key questions about the responsibilities we have to wild animals. What should we try to protect? How should we balance different, potentially conflicting, values such as nature protection and individual animal welfare?</div>
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The management and use of wild animals generates ethical disagreements and dilemmas in which human needs, preferences, and interests, concern for individual animal welfare, and the value of biodiversity, ecosystems, and wild nature are part of the discussion. The way in which these different values are prioritized will determine policy.</div>
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In 2008, I established a group at a church called Noah's Ark Animal Lovers Group. In a perfect world, which this is not, every single human could be a "Noah" -- yet, I realize that this is an imperfect, complicated world in which we live.</div>
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Blessings to you and your families for your love and care for animals.</div>
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Warmly,</div>
<div class="yiv3742248461ms__id9581 ms__id14148" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.66px; font-style: normal;">
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Paul</div>
<div class="yiv3742248461ms__id9583 ms__id14150" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.66px; font-style: normal;">
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Paul F. Flotron</div>
<div class="yiv3742248461ms__id9585 ms__id14152" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.66px; font-style: normal;">
Creature Comforts Great & Small, LLC</div>
<div class="yiv3742248461ms__id9586 ms__id14153" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.66px; font-style: normal;">
"Giving your creatures the comfort they deserve"</div>
<div class="yiv3742248461ms__id9587 ms__id14154" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.66px; font-style: normal;">
<a href="http://www.creaturecomfortsgreatnsmall.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.creaturecomfortsgreatnsmall.com/</a></div>
<div class="yiv3742248461ms__id9588 ms__id14155" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.66px; font-style: normal;">
314-200-8561</div>
<div class="yiv3742248461ms__id9589 ms__id14156" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.66px; font-style: normal;">
Cell: 314-775-7107</div>
<div class="yiv3742248461ms__id9590 ms__id14157" id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1393867097280_18931" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.66px; font-style: normal;">
<a href="mailto:PaulFFlotron@yahoo.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" ymailto="mailto:PaulFFlotron@yahoo.com">PaulFFlotron@yahoo.com</a></div>
</div>
PaulFlotronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306725962768179023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8435528399488447511.post-63077264529197951722014-03-02T07:36:00.002-08:002014-03-02T07:36:33.257-08:00Understanding Your Pet<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1393772645598_25450">
Hi Friends!</div>
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<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1393772645598_25445">
I am considered to be a very expressive person. I've been told by all who know me that when I'm feeling something, I don't hide it or have a lot of trouble doing expressing my thoughts or feelings, either in words or <span class="yiv1407011071yshortcuts yiv1407011071cs4-visible" id="yiv1407011071lw_1393691688098_1">body language</span>. I define open expressiveness as willing to look the person in the eyes, or tell the person over the phone, "I miss you" or "I really like you" or "I'm thinking of you." Overall, I consider myself an extrovert; I like people, I like conversing, I like community. I suppose that is the reason why I love parrots, dogs and well, love all animals so much.</div>
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I am very relationship-oriented. Since I consider relationships a top priority, I am committed to developing great relationships with my clients and their pets. The main ingredients I believe are important in a sucessful relationship are: Communication, Trust, Understanding, and Honesty. Understanding people and they way they operate is the only way to conduct a genuine relationship. It is beneficial and healthy to get ‘inside the mind’ of the person you are in relationship with or in some type of interaction. I believe this to also be the case with animals.</div>
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As is the case with developing a bond and strengthening a relationship with my birds Dudley and Sing-Sing. Communication, Trust, Understanding and Honesty has to take place between me, Dudley and Sing-Sing, just as it must occur with any other. However, an understanding has to be developed and learned.</div>
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After all, birds are not born with an understanding of how to fit into a human family. Many things that are natural behaviors in parrots in the wild, and even essential to their survival, are not considered appropriate behavior in our eyes. Often misbehavior is the result of misunderstandings between the owner and the bird, or of unrealistic expectations the owner has about how the bird should behave. Dogs are very expressive animals. They communicate when they’re feeling happy, sad, nervous, fearful and angry, and they use their faces and bodies to convey much of this information. Dog body language is an elaborate and sophisticated system of nonverbal communication that, fortunately, we can learn to recognize and interpret. Once you learn how to “read” a dog’s postures and signals, you’ll better understand his feelings and motivations and be better able to predict what he’s likely to do. These skills will enable you to interact with dogs with greater enjoyment and safety.</div>
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It helps to first learn about the various components that make up dog body language. Dogs use facial expressions, ear set, tail carriage and overall demeanor to signal their intentions and feelings to others. Breaking their body language down into components is helpful at first for building your observation and interpretation skills. Your goal, however, is to be able to observe the entire dog and the situation or context he’s in, in order to accurately determine what he’s trying to say. It’s not possible to understand your dog’s feelings and intentions by looking at just one aspect of his body language. </div>
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One of the most common mistakes an owner can make with their dog is to misread what the dog is saying into something completely different. We humans do it all of the time. The dog's body language says one thing, and we interpret it into something completely different, basing our assumption on what we ourselves are feeling. In reality dogs see and read the world much differently than we humans. If we humans better understood our dogs, we could prevent many dog bites and other behavioral issues.</div>
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For example, let’s take a simple act of a hug. To humans, a hug means love and affection. When a human receives a welcomed hug from a loved one it makes us feel good inside.</div>
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But just what does a hug mean to a dog? Humans are always hugging their dogs and when we do, we are giving the dog affection and sharing our love. However, what most humans do not realize is to a dog, a hug is not affection at all. To a dog, a hug symbolizes a social status ranking as dominance and an invasion of space—lower members of the pack give space to the higher members to show respect. The position of the body is also meaningful to a dog. The one on top represents a higher status ranking. Therefore, when you bend down and wrap your arms around a dog you are not only on top, but you are in their space.</div>
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Keeping this logic in mind, it makes total sense to not run up and hug a strange dog. Many children are bitten every day by hugging dogs, and if you look at it from the dog’s perspective, who would blame them? A stranger runs over, asserting dominance on a dog they have just met and the dog's reaction is to communicate to this being that they do not wish to be dominated. Unlike horses and deer who are "flight animals," a dog is a "fight animal" and will communicate his displeasure with a growl and/or a snap or bite.</div>
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That being said, it is not bad to hug a dog that is familiar with you if the dog is calm and in a submissive state of mind, so long as you are hugging them at a time when you are relaxed and happy. As a matter of fact, the emotional sensation humans receive from hugging can be felt by the dog, and that energy radiating from the humans can be very calming to the dog. Not because the hug has the same meaning to the dog, but because he is enjoying the calm he feels coming from you.</div>
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I often hear people say that when they correct their dog for a bad behavior, the dog sulks, leaves the room or turns his head because the dog is "upset." The humans interpret this behavior as the dog's feelings being hurt. They feel bad and believe they need to "make up" with the dog.</div>
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What is the dog really saying? If you correct your dog and he turns his head or leaves the room, he is giving in to you and accepting you as his leader. Giving space and turning away from direct eye contact are submissive behaviors. When humans try and "make up" with a dog after the dog has given in to you, it sends mixed signals to the dog.</div>
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Dogs communicate in many ways with each other, using verbal cues, body language and facial expressions. They also try to communicate with humans using these methods. Humans, of course, communicate with dogs with commands and phrases. Dogs can learn hundreds of human sounds but they can't string them together. Thus, the need for short commands such as "Sit!" and "Come!" Many of our communication tools are lost on dogs, such as sarcasm (to indicate frustration) or closed body language (to indicate you're uncomfortable) or a look of surprise. So, to enhance our communication with our canines, we must learn to get back to the basics and speak "dog."</div>
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I realize everyone is extremely busy and lead fast-paced lives. However, I encourage you to take time out of your hectic schedule to learn more about your dog or pet and what he is trying to communicate. Understanding and effective communications are key in any relationship.</div>
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Warmly,</div>
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Paul</div>
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Paul F. Flotron</div>
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Creature Comforts Great & Small, LLC</div>
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"Giving your creatures the comfort they deserve"</div>
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<a href="http://www.creaturecomfortsgreatnsmall.com/" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" target="_blank">http://www.creaturecomfortsgreatnsmall.com/</a></div>
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314-200-8561</div>
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Cell: 314-775-7107</div>
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<a href="mailto:PaulFFlotron@yahoo.com" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" target="_blank" ymailto="mailto:PaulFFlotron@yahoo.com">PaulFFlotron@yahoo.com</a></div>
PaulFlotronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306725962768179023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8435528399488447511.post-6861301970334205212014-02-13T06:30:00.002-08:002014-02-13T06:30:40.705-08:00Happy Valentine's Day From Paul, Dudley & Sing-Sing<blockquote id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1392300625952_6943" type="cite">
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Hi Friends!</div>
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<b id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1392300625952_6946">A Very Special Day Is Fast Approaching -- Love Is In The Air -- And Are You Prepared?</b></div>
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The love of your life is... an animal! What do you give Fido, Felix, or Polly for Valentine's Day? Here are some playful and yummy ideas for Valentine's Day pet gifts. </div>
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Who doesn't hang out with best friends, won't gossip about you, never leaves the toilet seat up, and adores you even if you've put on 10 pounds and you haven't shaved in a week? That's right - your pet! Dog, cat or bird, their world revolves around you... and food, of course.</div>
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So, when you're shopping for Valentine's Day gifts, don't forget to pick one up for the one sweetie who will love you to the ends of the earth, or at least, to the end of the leash.</div>
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Why have 'em if you can't spoil 'em! I'm referring to pets, not kids. So many of us do spoil them. How many times have we tossed a special pet treat or surprise into the grocery cart while shopping? In fact, in my opinion, there are some who treat their pets better than they treat their spouses. Could there be some truth in that? If our spouses or significant others bark at us, we bark back. If our dog barks at us... what do we do? We give him a treat. Yes, you are right, doing so is rewarding potentially behavior we are hoping to curb and eliminate. A treat doesn't exactly send the right message and is the right course of action. Admit it though, there are some occasions when you have given a treat inappropriately.</div>
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I am taking the liberty to offer some gift suggestions for your pets on Valentine's Day. If you're stymied on what to pick up for Fluffy or Big Boy, consider some of these. They're not all practical, but they're fun... just like Valentine's Day.</div>
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DOGS</h2>
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<li>Treats Unleashed Freshly Baked In-Store Gourmet Dog Cookies. I have to tell you, these cookies are yummy-looking enough to tempt even a human bite! These eye-catching cookies are soft-baked with organic grains and flours from recipes especially designed around the health and well being of pets.</li>
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<li>Stuffed animals: No. They're not edible, but your pup will sure have fun playing with these adorable fuzzy stuffed monkeys, lions elephants and mice.</li>
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<li>Hol-ee Roller by JW Pet: This is a durable honey combed ball chew toy that your dog can't destroy. It comes in small, medium and large dog sizes and in a variety of bright colors. Jimbo may even let you play with it too.</li>
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<li>Talking Rose Dog Toy: Made of plush, velvety material, this dog toy rose says, "I love you, I love you" when squeezed. It comes in large and small dog sizes. A little squeeze by your pup will get the message across.</li>
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<li> Petco Cudller Bed: We all like a soft, cuddly bed for a nice afternoon snooze. Your dog does too. Cozy, new beds are always great for Valentine's Day pet gifts.</li>
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CATS</h2>
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<li>Crazy Circle by Pet Mate: Drive your cat crazy chasing this ball around in circles. Various companies manufacture similar toys. Cats love 'em and they entertain us too.</li>
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<li>Chill Pill by Loopies: These 3 1/2 inch long plush pill-shaped cat toys are filled with catnip and fit nicely in a pair of paws. These are pills your cat will love taking!</li>
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<li>Bellyrubs: It's no secret that cats love fish, so the scent of these fat, dry flakes made from 100% Bonita tuna should really drive Tiger wild. This treat is rich in Omega 3's, making it healthy too.</li>
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<li>Kong Kickeroo: Your kitty will enjoy wrestling with this rectangular stuffed toy. Not only does it have a tail and appeals to its instinctive desire to stalk and capture prey, but it also has the enticing aroma of catnip.</li>
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<li>Peacock Feathers: If you're looking for a gift that's inexpensive and catches your cat's attention, then a peacock feather is the answer. After all, we know cats are so easy to entertain.</li>
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HOMEMADE Valentine's Day pet gifts on a budget!</h2>
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Don't leave your pet out of the Valentine's Day celebrations just because times are tight, be creative!</div>
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<b>DOGS:</b> Knot together your old, holey socks. Right off your feet is the smell they like best. </div>
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<br clear="none" /><b>CATS:</b> ANY empty box. It's as simple as that... any empty box!</div>
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A lot of people, with this economy the way it is, will eat macaroni and cheese before they cut back anything for their pets." For many of us, that means Valentine's Day pet gifts, as well.</div>
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And, among other things, my birds Dudley and Sing-Sing love to sing and dance. I have exposed them to a wide variety of styles of music. But, when I asked Dudley and Sing-Sing what is it that they wanted to share with you. Dudley and Sing-Sing responded:</div>
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We wish everyone and their animal companions much Love and Happiness....and For Your Listening Pleasure:</div>
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St. Louis' own Jazz Saxophonist Extraordinaire David Sanborn performing Al Green's "Love and Happiness"</div>
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David Sanborn Love And Happiness </div>
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<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yC5s88Tvmxc" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" target="_blank">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yC5s88Tvmxc</a></div>
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A Special Valentine's To A Beautiful Boxer I Love and Adore -- Audrey! Love and Miss You!</div>
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Happy Valentine's With Love & Happiness!</div>
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Paul</div>
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Paul F. Flotron</div>
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Creature Comforts Great & Small, LLC</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1392300625952_6973">
"Giving your creatures the comfort they deserve"</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1392300625952_6975">
<a href="http://www.creaturecomfortsgreatnsmall.com/" id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1392300625952_6974" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" target="_blank">http://www.creaturecomfortsgreatnsmall.com/</a></div>
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314-200-8561</div>
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Cell: 314-775-7107</div>
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E-Mail: <a href="mailto:PaulFFlotron@yahoo.com" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" target="_blank" ymailto="mailto:PaulFFlotron@yahoo.com">PaulFFlotron@yahoo.com</a></div>
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PaulFlotronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306725962768179023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8435528399488447511.post-88630909149863706032014-02-09T05:55:00.003-08:002014-02-09T05:55:50.149-08:00Pet Ministry & Pet Therapy<div id="yiv6533108591">
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Hi Friends!</div>
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Animal companions have become an important part of our culture and more and more places are starting to welcome and accommodate pets. It's becoming common to see hotels with dog beds, stores with water dishes out front and even car companies designing vehicles with pets in mind.</div>
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Religious groups are no exception. Churches have long held blessing of the animal events and some are inviting pets to attend service. But some congregations are starting pet ministries in order to reach and connect with animal lovers on a new level.</div>
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In 1997, when my grandmother moved into a nursing home, I wanted to make sure she was aware of the depth of my love. So, I committed myself to visiting her frequently and to bring my parrot Dudley along. My grandma always found Dudley so fascinated and just loved Dudley. I got a kick out of how my grandma would even bake for Dudley. Delicious goodies like Rice Krispy Treats, cookies, and apple pies. Undeniably, my grandma and I enjoyed a wonderful close relationship but Dudley must have really been the "apple of her eye," since she baked especially for Dudley. Though I enjoyed a close relationship with my grandmother, to receive even a little bite of the treats she baked for Dudley, I had to be especially good.</div>
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So, I became involved in pet therapy, visiting residents in nursing homes 15 years ago. As I mentioned, breaking into pet ministry for me resulted from a personal motivation. Not unlike anything, there was a journey and periods of growth, transitions from one stage to another. A few years later, I became a member of a large, non-denominational evangelical church and was asked to lead its pet therapy team. In addition to directing the pet therapy team, I developed a passion to support animal rescue organizations and to build a support network to make a difference in the lives of animals and throughout the animal community. I launched an animal lovers group called Noah's Ark, a pet ministry that organizes pet-food drives, fundraisers for a local rescue group, pet therapy visits, a pet loss support group and a Bible study that discusses animal-related passages. Lately, I have integrated the many areas of my pet ministry into my pet care business, Creature Comforts Great & Small.</div>
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I commend the faith community. More and more churches include animals for adoption in their weekly bulletins, host adoption events and run vaccine clinics.</div>
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As a testament to this growing trend, the Humane Society of the United States hired a liaison to religious communities in 2007. Now there are animal ministries in every state. Next month, the Humane Society will be launching a directory of affiliated ministries on their website.</div>
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In fact, you can read about me and my pet ministry in a New York Times article "Churches Take Steps To Show Their Love For Animals," in the following link:</div>
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<a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2011/10/15/us/pet-ministries-are-growing-in-churches.html?_r=0" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><span style="color: #196ad4;">http://www.nytimes.com/2011/10/15/us/pet-ministries-are-growing-in-churches.html?_r=0</span></a></div>
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Through parts of the faith community partnering with the animal community, animals in need are receiving the help they are so desperately in need. It is still in the embryonic stage as many churches still do not have a pet ministry. But more animal events are being held which may include blessing of the animals and a holiday “giving tree” that collects supplies for the local shelter). In turn, churches and the faith community as a whole are inspiring a lot of people in their congregation to get plugged in to a pet ministry and share stories of beloved pets and connect with each other in a different way.</div>
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Animal lovers are an amazing community of people, so pet ministries seem like a great way to get like-minded people together for a good cause.</div>
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Does your church, synagogue or faith institution have a pet ministry? If so, I would love to hear more. If not and you are interested in learning about how to begin a pet ministry, please contact me.</div>
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Thank You and God Bless You!</div>
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Warmly,</div>
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Paul</div>
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Paul F. Flotron</div>
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Creature Comforts Great & Small, LLC</div>
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"Giving your creatures the comfort they deserve"</div>
<div>
<a href="http://www.creaturecomfortsgreatnsmall.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><span style="color: #196ad4;">http://www.creaturecomfortsgreatnsmall.com/</span></a></div>
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314-200-8561</div>
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Cell: 314-775-7107</div>
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<span id="goog_237316035"></span><span id="goog_237316036"></span><br />PaulFlotronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306725962768179023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8435528399488447511.post-74511385855844203352014-02-09T05:55:00.002-08:002014-02-09T05:55:34.869-08:00Pet Ministry & Pet Therapy<div id="yiv6533108591">
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Hi Friends!</div>
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Animal companions have become an important part of our culture and more and more places are starting to welcome and accommodate pets. It's becoming common to see hotels with dog beds, stores with water dishes out front and even car companies designing vehicles with pets in mind.</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391948757606_17122">
Religious groups are no exception. Churches have long held blessing of the animal events and some are inviting pets to attend service. But some congregations are starting pet ministries in order to reach and connect with animal lovers on a new level.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
In 1997, when my grandmother moved into a nursing home, I wanted to make sure she was aware of the depth of my love. So, I committed myself to visiting her frequently and to bring my parrot Dudley along. My grandma always found Dudley so fascinated and just loved Dudley. I got a kick out of how my grandma would even bake for Dudley. Delicious goodies like Rice Krispy Treats, cookies, and apple pies. Undeniably, my grandma and I enjoyed a wonderful close relationship but Dudley must have really been the "apple of her eye," since she baked especially for Dudley. Though I enjoyed a close relationship with my grandmother, to receive even a little bite of the treats she baked for Dudley, I had to be especially good.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
So, I became involved in pet therapy, visiting residents in nursing homes 15 years ago. As I mentioned, breaking into pet ministry for me resulted from a personal motivation. Not unlike anything, there was a journey and periods of growth, transitions from one stage to another. A few years later, I became a member of a large, non-denominational evangelical church and was asked to lead its pet therapy team. In addition to directing the pet therapy team, I developed a passion to support animal rescue organizations and to build a support network to make a difference in the lives of animals and throughout the animal community. I launched an animal lovers group called Noah's Ark, a pet ministry that organizes pet-food drives, fundraisers for a local rescue group, pet therapy visits, a pet loss support group and a Bible study that discusses animal-related passages. Lately, I have integrated the many areas of my pet ministry into my pet care business, Creature Comforts Great & Small.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I commend the faith community. More and more churches include animals for adoption in their weekly bulletins, host adoption events and run vaccine clinics.</div>
<div>
As a testament to this growing trend, the Humane Society of the United States hired a liaison to religious communities in 2007. Now there are animal ministries in every state. Next month, the Humane Society will be launching a directory of affiliated ministries on their website.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
In fact, you can read about me and my pet ministry in a New York Times article "Churches Take Steps To Show Their Love For Animals," in the following link:</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2011/10/15/us/pet-ministries-are-growing-in-churches.html?_r=0" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><span style="color: #196ad4;">http://www.nytimes.com/2011/10/15/us/pet-ministries-are-growing-in-churches.html?_r=0</span></a></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #196ad4;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
Through parts of the faith community partnering with the animal community, animals in need are receiving the help they are so desperately in need. It is still in the embryonic stage as many churches still do not have a pet ministry. But more animal events are being held which may include blessing of the animals and a holiday “giving tree” that collects supplies for the local shelter). In turn, churches and the faith community as a whole are inspiring a lot of people in their congregation to get plugged in to a pet ministry and share stories of beloved pets and connect with each other in a different way.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Animal lovers are an amazing community of people, so pet ministries seem like a great way to get like-minded people together for a good cause.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Does your church, synagogue or faith institution have a pet ministry? If so, I would love to hear more. If not and you are interested in learning about how to begin a pet ministry, please contact me.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Thank You and God Bless You!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Warmly,</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Paul</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Paul F. Flotron</div>
<div>
Creature Comforts Great & Small, LLC</div>
<div>
"Giving your creatures the comfort they deserve"</div>
<div>
<a href="http://www.creaturecomfortsgreatnsmall.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><span style="color: #196ad4;">http://www.creaturecomfortsgreatnsmall.com/</span></a></div>
<div>
314-200-8561</div>
<div>
Cell: 314-775-7107</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<br />PaulFlotronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306725962768179023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8435528399488447511.post-10422930468691854202014-02-04T20:43:00.001-08:002014-02-04T20:43:26.313-08:00I Appreciate You!<div id="yiv5495441953">
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To My Valued Clients - You Are My Friends and You Are My Family --</div>
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I
am writing to you because I am at a loss for words. Irony? Obviously,
not a loss in the written but the spoken. Many of you who know me I'm
sure are quite shocked. Paul is struggling to express himself and not
able to communicate? Cough Cough, smirks, laughter.....</div>
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The
key
words here are "feeling a loss." At the moment, I'm shedding some
tears as one of my wonderful clients is moving out of state. This
client is a family made up of the most wonderful people I've ever had
the pleasure of knowing. I frequently share with them the long and
winding road I have been in my career path. And, yet, I happily
acknowledge that starting my pet care business 5 years ago has been the
best decision I've ever made. This family is a great example why.</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391574972447_4836" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 24px; font-style: normal;">
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You
see, they are my family. I love them like my own family. I love their
adorable dog, Audrey as she were my very own. Another "adopted family"
of mine will be moving out of state soon. Their dog Delilah and cat
Farley mean the world to me -- I love them dearly. Family, that's a
strong word. For me, it means to feel secure, to have
someone who you can count on, who shares your problems. But, it also
means to have respect for each other and responsibility.</div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 24px; font-style: normal;">
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<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391574972447_4840" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 24px; font-style: normal;">
And,
I not only believe in the importance in the Family, but I believe in
the importance of a relationship. My strong beliefs, values and
philosophies are all centered on
relationships. I am committed to cultivating the best relationship with
you and your pets. But, without love as the foundation and
cornerstone, the relationship can not be built.</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391574972447_4841" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 24px; font-style: normal;">
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What is love?</div>
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<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391574972447_4844">
There are many different definitions.</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391574972447_4845">
Some say it's a feeling. Others say its an emotion. While still others contend it's a verb.</div>
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Whatever it is… <u><b>it's powerful</b></u>.</div>
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<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391574972447_4849">
A plethora of songs, books, poems and sayings have been written about this potent word.</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391574972447_4850">
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There have even been wars fought and people murdered in the name of love.</div>
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Love comes in many forms and variations…</div>
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<br clear="none" /></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391574972447_4855">
From
the simplest uses like Hannibal's one-liner, "I love it when a plan
comes together" to the more complex form, like the love a parent has for
a child.<br clear="none" /> </div>
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Having been married once, but a number of years ago yet without any children, besides my
family the greatest love in my life has been without a doubt my birds — Dudley & Sing-Sing.</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391574972447_4858">
<br clear="none" /></div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 24px; font-style: normal;">
Dudley
and Sing-Sing are extremely intelligent, loving and loyal. They mean
the world to me. I couldn't have asked for a better lifelong
companions.</div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 24px; font-style: normal;">
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<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391574972447_4859">
Though
Sing-Sing has only been with me since 2006, Dudley has shared many life
experiences with me over the past 21 years. Dudley has been with me
during some <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fkHPiuR9t40/UvHBQ3PybvI/AAAAAAAAAe4/7waIMjGAmSg/s1600/pauldudley.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fkHPiuR9t40/UvHBQ3PybvI/AAAAAAAAAe4/7waIMjGAmSg/s1600/pauldudley.jpg" height="320" width="311" /></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7PPO_-3tw_I/UvHBULvj-5I/AAAAAAAAAfA/DBm4nsUOr5E/s1600/paulsingsing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7PPO_-3tw_I/UvHBULvj-5I/AAAAAAAAAfA/DBm4nsUOr5E/s1600/paulsingsing.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
of the most pivotal times in my life.</div>
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… my first true heartbreak<br clear="none" /> … marriage, divorce and attempt at reconciliation of my marriage for almost 4 years<br clear="none" /> … buying my first house<br clear="none" /> …
relocating to Southern California, returning back home to St. Louis, and various moves</div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 24px; font-style: normal;">
... job/career changes</div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 24px; font-style: normal;">
.... pet therapy/pet ministry at churches, nursing homes....</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391574972447_4861" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 24px; font-style: normal;">
....
and finally, finally seeing me pursue the biggest love of my
life...working with animals -- establishing a pet care business</div>
<div>
<br clear="none" /></div>
<div>
It's nuts to think that you can develop such a bond and kinship with an animal that can't even speak your language.</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391574972447_4862">
But why is that?</div>
<div>
<br clear="none" /></div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 24px; font-style: normal;">
After thinking about it I think it's simply because I "<i>take care of them</i>" and there is mutual trust, respect and unconditional love...and they depend on me — we depend upon one another. I am their <u>care giver</u>.</div>
<div>
<br clear="none" /></div>
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You
take care of someone long enough and it's impossible not to feel some
sort of bond. Doesn't matter if it's an 80 year old stranger or a 3
month old infant, the longer you "care" for them the more you develop a
bond… and the more you care for their well-being.</div>
<div>
<br clear="none" /></div>
<div>
Well,
I hope you know how much I care about you and your animal companions.
That is why you hear people like Jay Abraham and other "gurus" talk
about the key to growing a thriving business is to "<i>fall in love</i>" with you customer. It's true.</div>
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<div>
<b>And it translates into: "take care of your customers because they depend on you."</b></div>
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<b><br clear="none" /></b></div>
<div>
Essentially
the relationship with your customers is no different than the one with
your family pet (I know that sounds a bit absurd, but bear with me). </div>
<div>
If
you provide for them (care for them) and look out for their best
interests (they're depending on it), they will reward you with their
loyalty — their un-wavering loyalty.</div>
<div>
Think about a brand or company that you seriously admire.</div>
<div>
Do you have loyalty to them?…</div>
<div>
A good example of this is Costco.</div>
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How many times have you heard someone say, "purchase if from Costco, because if you want to return it, you can."?</div>
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<br clear="none" /></div>
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Costco
enjoys this kind of loyalty and word of mouth recommendations because
they are taking care of their customer's needs first and looking out for
the customer's well-being.</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391574972447_4868">
And in return — we give them our loyalty.</div>
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<br clear="none" /></div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 24px; font-style: normal;">
Yet,
for me, this pet care business is not just a business and I do not
prescribe to any gurus who espouse the "care giver" mentality in order
to build a business. It is inherit within my nature and is pure. I
genuinely care for you and your pets -- and it is from the very core of
my heart.</div>
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I will always care about my extended family -- You! I am saddened for this loss. Members of my
"adopted family" are moving away. In spite of any distance, I will always keep them close in my heart in a special place.</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391574972447_4872" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 24px; font-style: normal;">
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With love and appreciation to you My Family,</div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 24px; font-style: normal;">
<br clear="none" /></div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 24px; font-style: normal;">
Paul (and Dudley & Sing-Sing too)</div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 24px; font-style: normal;">
<br clear="none" /></div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 24px; font-style: normal;">
Paul F. Flotron</div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 24px; font-style: normal;">
Creature Comforts Great & Small, LLC</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391574972447_4874" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 24px; font-style: normal;">
"Giving your creatures the comfort they deserve"</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391574972447_4875" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 24px; font-style: normal;">
www.CreatureComfortsGreatnSmall.com</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391574972447_4876" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 24px; font-style: normal;">
314-200-8561</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391574972447_4877" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 24px; font-style: normal;">
Cell: 314-775-7107</div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 24px; font-style: normal;">
<br clear="none" /></div>
</div>
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</div>
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</div>
</div>
</div>
PaulFlotronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306725962768179023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8435528399488447511.post-50301059249377658632014-02-01T10:14:00.001-08:002014-02-01T10:14:07.199-08:00Creature Comforts & Paul Flotron In Need of Your Help -- Angie's List Review & Testimonials <div id="yiv9530099127">
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Dear Friends!</div>
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<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391278105784_4539">
When someone takes the
time to recount a positive experience, it
speaks volumes. And so I would like to request a small favor – a
testimonial that will give others a sense of the experience and service I
offer. Whether you are a client employing my pet care services
business Creature Comforts, a fellow supporter of animal rescue, a
community advocate partnering with me to serve in my animal community
outreach programs, or a listener/special guest of my radio program
Animal Adventures, I would appreciate you sharing some positive words.</div>
<br clear="none" />I
have always felt that the testimonial is a powerful indicator
of excellence. I strive to provide such excellence with each and every
time I provide a service and interact with you and your pets. I
sincerely hope that describes your experience with
me. This testimonial can be as short or as long as you like. It is
valuable to my future business and, just as importantly, allows me to
continuously improve upon the level of service I provide.<br clear="none" /><br clear="none" />Recently,
a client submitted a glowing testimonial to Angie's List. I would be
eternally grateful if you would also submit your testimonials about me
and Creature Comforts Great & Small to Angie's List.<br clear="none" /><br clear="none" />
<div class="yiv9530099127MsoNormal" id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391278105784_4541" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391278105784_4540" style="font-weight: bold;">Creature Comforts Great & Small <span style="font-size: 24.0pt;"><i>uses Angie's List to
assess whether we're doing a good job keeping valued customers like you
happy.</i></span></span></div>
<div class="yiv9530099127MsoNormal" style="color: black; font-size: 32px; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size: 24.0pt;"><i><br clear="none" /></i></span></span></div>
<div class="yiv9530099127MsoNormal" style="color: black; font-size: 32px; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size: 24.0pt;"><i>Please visit <a href="http://www.angieslist.com/review/8102391" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" target="_blank" title="Click to follow link http://www.angieslist.com/review/8102391"><span style="color: blue;">www.angieslist.com/review/8102391</span></a> to submit your review of me and </i></span><span style="font-size: 24.0pt;"><i>Creature Comforts Great & Small in order
to grade our quality of work and customer service</i>.</span></span></div>
<br clear="none" />Please feel
free to also e-mail me your testimonial at <a href="mailto:PaulFFlotron@yahoo.com" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" target="_blank">PaulFFlotron@yahoo.com</a> to share
your thoughts on your experience with me and Creature Comforts.<br clear="none" /><div>
<br clear="none" /></div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
<span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Examples
of some of my past client testimonials are below. </span></span> I sincerely
appreciate your help and look forward to serving your needs for years to
come.</div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
<br clear="none" /></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391278105784_4542" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
With kindest regards,</div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
</div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
Paul</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391278105784_4543" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
<br clear="none" /></div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
Paul F. Flotron</div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
Creature Comforts Great & Small, LLC</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391278105784_4544" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
"Giving your creatures the comfort they deserve"</div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
<a href="http://www.creaturecomfortsgreatnsmall.com/" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" target="_blank">www.CreatureComfortsGreatnSmall.com</a></div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" rel="nofollow" shape="rect">314-200-8561</a></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391278105784_4545" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
Cell: <a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" rel="nofollow" shape="rect">314-775-7107</a></div>
<div>
E-Mail: <a href="mailto:PaulFFlotron@yahoo.com" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" target="_blank">PaulFFlotron@yahoo.com</a><br clear="none" /><span style="font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391278105784_4546" style="background-color: transparent; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
<span style="font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif;"><br clear="none" /></span></div>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391278105784_4552" style="width: 100%px;"><tbody id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391278105784_4551">
<tr><td align="left" colspan="3" rowspan="1"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Testimonials</span></td></tr>
<tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1"> </td></tr>
<tr id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391278105784_4550"><td align="left" colspan="3" id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391278105784_4549" rowspan="1"><div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391278105784_4548">
<b id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391278105784_4547">What Our Clients Say About Us:</b></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
<span style="font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif;"><br clear="none" /></span></div>
"I have known Paul Flotron for many years and use him exclusively as a pet sitter for our <span><span>family dog</span></span>.
Paul is trustworthy and extremely conscientious in providing the best
possible dog sitting services. Paul goes above and beyond what we
expect and our dog looks forward to his visits. I cannot imagine anyone
providing the level of service and care as Paul does with Creature
Comforts, and I strongly recommend his services to those considering a
pet sitter."
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391278105784_4553">
<br clear="none" />
<i>-Kevin Marquitz</i></div>
<br clear="none" />
"I so appreciated your rapid response to a stranger in my hour of
need. You did, indeed, go the extra mile. Your thoroughness and
professionalism was very much appreciated."<br clear="none" />
<br clear="none" />
<i>-Connie Rose</i><br clear="none" />
<br clear="none" />
"<span id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391278105784_4554" lang="EN">After meeting Paul for the first time, I felt more
than 100% comfortable entrusting my girls' care to him. I knew without a
doubt that he was a trustworthy, caring person. I could tell how much
he loved animals. <span id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391278105784_4555" lang="EN">He exceeded my every expectation,
with frequent phone calls, texts, and email summaries of how the girls
were doing while I was gone. Paul knew that I was nervous about leaving
them, and made sure I knew that they were being well taken care of.
Paul changed his schedule to accommodate my own, drove farther than
usual, and did everything he could to help me since my departure was
last minute and unexpected. <span lang="EN">I would recommend anyone
needing a petsitter to contact Paul Flotron, as he is great with
animals, trustworthy, honest, responsible, and will take excellent care
of your pets. </span>Creature Comforts Great & Small, LLC went above and beyond."<br clear="none" />
<br clear="none" />
<span id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391278105784_4557" lang="EN"><i id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391278105784_4556">-Cheryl<br clear="none" />
*Mommy to Prissy and Pebbles, and Foster Mommy to Ellie and Belle<br clear="none" />
<br clear="none" />
</i></span></span></span>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391278105784_4558">
We moved from Chicago one year ago not knowing anyone and we were
blessed to find Paul to look after our dog Milo. Paul is very
conscientious and trustworthy. We recently lost Milo to cancer and Paul
has been wonderful and instrumental in helping us find another Boxer to
adopt. We look forward to having Paul walk our new dogs in the near
future.
<div>
</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391278105784_4559">
Richard and Mary<br clear="none" />
<br clear="none" />
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391278105784_4560">
We highly recommend Paul to take care of your pet. He was
outstanding with our little dog (she really gave him a fit, but he
handled everything beautifully). He was also highly responsible about
the care of our home while staying with our dog.</div>
<div style="font-weight: normal;">
<br clear="none" />
Marlene I.</div>
</div>
</div>
<br clear="none" />
<span id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391278105784_4563" lang="EN"><span id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391278105784_4562" lang="EN"><span id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391278105784_4561" lang="EN">A Community Outreach Testimonial:<br clear="none" />
<br clear="none" />
"I was able to witness not only the spirit Paul brings to the
situation, but also the organization and teamwork. Paul has recruited
an army of volunteers to help him in this endeavor to make a difference
in people’s lives. These individuals have touched patients in our own
hospice settings. When words are too complex to reach across
limitations occurring in the minds of our patients, Paul, his army of
volunteers and pets cross that barrier with their energy and spirit of
love!"<br clear="none" />
<br clear="none" />
<i>-Brenda McGarvey <br clear="none" />
Regional Volunteer Program Coordinator <br clear="none" />
Unity Hospice<br clear="none" /></i></span></span></span><br clear="none" /><span id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391278105784_4568" lang="EN"><span id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391278105784_4567" lang="EN"><span id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391278105784_4566" lang="EN"><i id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391278105784_4565"><b id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391278105784_4564">A Recent Client Testimonial:<br clear="none" /><br clear="none" />"Paul has been taking
wonderful care of my four legged kids for three years. He has been there
for me when it is a day that he is not scheduled no questions asked. I
work very long hours and am peace knowing that he will be at my home
taking care and tiring my children out. I will always recommend Paul and
his service to anyone. He cares for my kids as if they are his."<br clear="none" /><br clear="none" /> Nancy, Katie and Tucker. <div class="yiv9530099127thread-quoted-body" style="height: 60px;">
<br clear="none" /></div>
</b></i><div class="yiv9530099127thread-quoted-body" id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391278105784_4569" style="height: auto; overflow: visible;">
<span id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391278105784_4572" style="font-size: x-large;"><span id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391278105784_4571" style="font-weight: bold;">Client Testimonial For Creature Comforts Great & Small<br clear="none" /><span id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391278105784_4570" style="font-style: italic;">Submitted to Angie's List<br clear="none" /></span></span></span></div>
</span></span></span><div class="yiv9530099127thread-quoted-body" id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391278105784_4581" style="height: auto; overflow: visible;">
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391278105784_4580">
<span id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391278105784_4579" style="font-weight: bold;"><span id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391278105784_4578" style="font-size: medium;"><span id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391278105784_4577" style="font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391278105784_4576"><span id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391278105784_4575" style="font-size: x-large;"><span id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391278105784_4574"><span id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391278105784_4573"><span id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391278105784_4582" style="font-size: 14px;">"I
care for my animals very much and only want the best for them. I was
referred to Paul Flotron to take care of my beloved pets.</span></span></span><span style="font-size: 14px;"><span> </span>Paul is amazing with the animals! He’s just so good. While I was gone he maintains the cleanliness of the house.</span><span id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391278105784_4584"><span id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391278105784_4583"><span id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391278105784_4585" style="font-size: 14px;">
Paul brought my mail and newspaper in while were we gone, and while
he's
away he maintains the lived in effect. He also gave us a diary of what
he did with the dogs while we were gone everyday. The dogs were healthy,
taken care of, and walked. Paul works 7 days a week. He’s very well
spoken. He's very much dedicated to the animals, his
clients and his business. In closing, it took me 5 years and many
interviews to find someone with such high standards while valuing my
pets as much as I do. To me, that's an irreplaceable feeling<span style="font-size: medium;">."</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span></span></span></span><span style="font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><br clear="none" />
Hannah & Ron</span></span></span></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</blockquote>
</div>
<div class="yiv9530099127thread-quoted-body" style="height: auto; overflow: visible;">
<span style="font-weight: bold;"><br clear="none" /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="yiv9530099127thread-quoted-body" style="height: auto; overflow: visible;">
<span style="font-weight: bold;">
</span></div>
</div>
</blockquote>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<h3 id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391278105784_3675">
<span class="summary"></span></h3>
PaulFlotronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306725962768179023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8435528399488447511.post-26771715424267668462014-01-31T09:50:00.000-08:002014-01-31T09:50:21.724-08:00Ah, Love Is In The Air<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391190037848_3136">
Hi Friends!</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391190037848_3143">
<br /></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391190037848_3144" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
Ah,
love is in the air. After all, Valentine's Day is fast approaching and
Spring, a perfect time for romance will be here soon. At the risk of
being graphic and a bit too much T.M.I., last night, an absolutely
wonderful client and friend happened to spring open the door to find me
on my back with my legs up in the air being "kissed to death" by her
adorable, loving dogs. My first thought upon seeing her in the doorway
was a question should I be embarrassed or not. Superseding this notion
was simply bursting out in laughter as ironically what entered my mind
moments before I considered the "what if my amazing friend and client
opens the door to witness a grown middle-age man on the ground having
dog slobber and kisses all over his face. Setting aside all negative
thoughts, I focused on accentuating the positive that what would be
perceived by my friend would be something more along the lines of being
thankful for me and her dogs having built such a great friendship.</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391190037848_3145" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391190037848_3146" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
I
am a firm believer in there being a reason for everything that happens
in our lives. God has a purpose for every situation. So, I saw this as
the impetus for researching the "chemistry" between humans and pets.
There is real chemistry between dogs and their owners, new research
over the last few years and supporting data. From a simple kiss to a
long, loving gaze, everyday interactions with dogs are responsible for
changing people's biochemistry for the better.</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391190037848_3147" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391190037848_3148">
Oxytocin is a peculiar little molecule. It is known as the "hug
hormone" because it is what makes you feel good when you are touched by a
loved one, get a massage or enjoy a good meal. Oxytocin also has
pain-relieving properties and can decrease stress and blood pressure.
</div>
<div>
</div>
<div class="yiv2079958324about_adsense" id="yiv2079958324nointelliTXT">
<span id="yiv2079958324ad_sense1"></span>
</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391190037848_3149">
People experience oxytocin in many social relationships, including
bonding with children or partners. What is surprising is that people
would also experience a change in this hormone when bonding with a
completely different species.</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391190037848_3150">
<strong><br /></strong></div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold;">
<strong>Friends with benefits</strong></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391190037848_3151" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
Miho Nagasawa of Azabu University in Japan and colleagues conducted a
study with 55 dogs and their owners. People whose dogs gazed at them for
two
minutes or longer (23 percent of dogs) showed a higher increase in
oxytocin than people whose dogs gazed at them for less time. People with
dogs
with a long gaze also reported being happier with their dogs than those
people whose dog's gaze was only around a minute long.</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391190037848_3152">
<br />
</div>
<div>
These results were echoed in the database of Dognition, a
Web-based service that helps owners find the genius in their dog. In a
sample of 276 dogs, 32 percent of dogs had a long gaze (a
continuous 90 seconds or more) in one or more trials.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
In another study by Linda Handlin and colleagues from the University of Skövde in
Sweden, owners who kissed their dogs the most frequently had higher
levels of oxytocin than other owners. Handlin found that along with kissing, there were two other factors
that predicted the higher levels of oxytocin — the first was that the
owners were more likely to perceive their relationship with their dog as
pleasurable (i.e., they did not think that looking after their dog was
difficult or a chore). The second was a <em>lower</em> frequency in giving treats, showing that the path to true love is not necessarily through a dog's stomach.
</div>
<div>
<br />
</div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
In
a separate study by Johannes Odendaal and colleagues from the
University of Pretoria in South Africa, owners were brought into a room
that was empty except for two tables and chairs. The owners sat on a
rug on the floor with their dogs and a nurse drew their blood. For the
next 30 minutes, each owner's attention was completely focused on his or
her dog. They talked softly to their dogs, stroked them gently and
scratched their bodies and behind their ears. The participants' blood
was drawn again after 30 minutes.</div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div>
The researchers found that participants' blood pressure decreased, and
they experienced an increase in not only oxytocin, but also a whole
other range of hormones, including beta-endorphins, which are associated
with euphoria and pain relief; prolactin, which promotes bonding
associated with parenting behavior; phenylethylamine, which tends to
increase when people find a romantic partner; and dopamine, which
increases pleasurable sensations.</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391190037848_3153">
When each dog owner came in and read a book for 30 minutes, oxytocin
and the other hormones did not increase as much as they did during
interactions with their dog. What is even more incredible is that not
only did humans experience a rise in these hormones — the dogs did, too.
It seems the feelings of bonding and affiliation are entirely mutual.</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391190037848_3174">
<br /></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391190037848_3154">
Humanity's relationship with dogs is so extraordinary that it affects
humans' very biochemistry. Science is only beginning to understand the
mechanisms of this relationship, and the implications will keep
cognitive psychologists busy for many years to come. But for those who
just need a little something to lift their spirits, try a meaningful
gaze, or even a kiss, with your best friend.</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391190037848_3155">
<br /></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391190037848_3156" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
Warmly,</div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391190037848_3157" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
Paul</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391190037848_3175" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391190037848_3173" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
Paul F. Flotron</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391190037848_3158" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
Creature Comforts Great & Small, LLC</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391190037848_3172" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
"Giving your creatures the comfort they deserve"</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391190037848_3176" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
www.CreatureComfortsGreatnSmall.com</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391190037848_3159" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
314-200-8561</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1391190037848_3171" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
Cell: 314-775-7107<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3XfvVqTyvqo/UuviS8lzqRI/AAAAAAAAAeo/-Kq-4t0POqs/s1600/pauldudleysingsing2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3XfvVqTyvqo/UuviS8lzqRI/AAAAAAAAAeo/-Kq-4t0POqs/s1600/pauldudleysingsing2.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
</div>
PaulFlotronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306725962768179023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8435528399488447511.post-15065799396381653592014-01-21T05:50:00.003-08:002014-01-21T05:50:38.473-08:00Creature Comforts & Paul Flotron In Need of Your Help -- Testimonials<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1390311226724_4173">
Dear Friends!</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1390311226724_4176">
<br /></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1390311226724_4177">
When someone takes the
time to recount a positive experience, it
speaks volumes. And so I would like to request a small favor – a
testimonial that will give others a sense of the experience and service I
offer. Whether you are a client employing my pet care services
business Creature Comforts, a fellow supporter of animal rescue, a
community advocate partnering with me to serve in my animal community
outreach programs, or a listener/special guest of my radio program
Animal Adventures, I would appreciate you sharing some positive words.</div>
<br />I have always felt that the testimonial is a powerful indicator
of excellence. I strive to provide such excellence with each and every
transaction, and I sincerely hope that describes your experience with
me. This testimonial can be as short or as long as you like. It is
valuable to my future business and, just as importantly, allows me to
continuously improve upon the level of service I provide.<br /><br />Recently,
a client submitted a glowing testimonial to Angie's List. I would be
eternally grateful if you would also submit your testimonials about me
and Creature Comforts Great & Small to Angie's List. Please feel
free to e-mail me your testimonial at PaulFFlotron@yahoo.com to share
your thoughts on your experience with me and Creature Comforts.<br /><div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1390311226724_4178">
<br /></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1390311226724_4179" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
Examples
of some of my past client testimonials are below. I sincerely
appreciate your help and look forward to serving your needs for years to
come.</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1390311226724_4180" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1390311226724_4181" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
With kindest regards,</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1390311226724_4182" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
Paul</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1390311226724_4183" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1390311226724_4184" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
Paul F. Flotron</div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
Creature Comforts Great & Small, LLC</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1390311226724_4185" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
"Giving your creatures the comfort they deserve"</div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
www.CreatureComfortsGreatnSmall.com</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1390311226724_4186" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
314-200-8561</div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
Cell: 314-775-7107</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1390311226724_4187">
E-Mail: PaulFFlotron@yahoo.com<br /><span style="font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
<span style="font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 100%px;"><tbody>
<tr><td align="left" class="yiv4659544816heading6" colspan="3"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Testimonials</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td> </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="left" class="yiv4659544816middle_content" colspan="3"><div>
<strong>What Our Clients Say About Us:</strong></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
<span style="font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
"I have known Paul Flotron for many years and use him exclusively as a pet sitter for our <span id="yiv4659544816lw_1289680106_9"><span id="yiv4659544816lw_1289786048_7">family dog</span></span>.
Paul is trustworthy and extremely conscientious in providing the best
possible dog sitting services. Paul goes above and beyond what we
expect and our dog looks forward to his visits. I cannot imagine anyone
providing the level of service and care as Paul does with Creature
Comforts, and I strongly recommend his services to those considering a
pet sitter."
<div>
<br />
<em>-Kevin Marquitz</em></div>
<br />
"I so appreciated your rapid response to a stranger in my hour of
need. You did, indeed, go the extra mile. Your thoroughness and
professionalism was very much appreciated."<br />
<br />
<em>-Connie Rose</em><br />
<br />
"<span id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1390311226724_4188" lang="EN">After meeting Paul for the first time, I felt more
than 100% comfortable entrusting my girls' care to him. I knew without a
doubt that he was a trustworthy, caring person. I could tell how much
he loved animals. <span id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1390311226724_4190" lang="EN">He exceeded my every expectation,
with frequent phone calls, texts, and email summaries of how the girls
were doing while I was gone. Paul knew that I was nervous about leaving
them, and made sure I knew that they were being well taken care of.
Paul changed his schedule to accommodate my own, drove farther than
usual, and did everything he could to help me since my departure was
last minute and unexpected. <span id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1390311226724_4191" lang="EN">I would recommend anyone
needing a petsitter to contact Paul Flotron, as he is great with
animals, trustworthy, honest, responsible, and will take excellent care
of your pets. </span>Creature Comforts Great & Small, LLC went above and beyond."<br />
<br />
<span id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1390311226724_4194" lang="EN"><em id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1390311226724_4193">-Cheryl<br />
*Mommy to Prissy and Pebbles, and Foster Mommy to Ellie and Belle<br />
<br />
</em></span></span></span>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1390311226724_4195">
We moved from Chicago one year ago not knowing anyone and we were
blessed to find Paul to look after our dog Milo. Paul is very
conscientious and trustworthy. We recently lost Milo to cancer and Paul
has been wonderful and instrumental in helping us find another Boxer to
adopt. We look forward to having Paul walk our new dogs in the near
future.
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1390311226724_4196">
</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1390311226724_4197">
Richard and Mary<br />
<br />
<div>
We highly recommend Paul to take care of your pet. He was
outstanding with our little dog (she really gave him a fit, but he
handled everything beautifully). He was also highly responsible about
the care of our home while staying with our dog.</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1390311226724_4198" style="font-weight: normal;">
<br />
Marlene I.</div>
</div>
</div>
<br />
<span lang="EN"><span lang="EN"><span lang="EN">A Community Outreach Testimonial:<br />
<br />
"I was able to witness not only the spirit Paul brings to the
situation, but also the organization and teamwork. Paul has recruited
an army of volunteers to help him in this endeavor to make a difference
in people’s lives. These individuals have touched patients in our own
hospice settings. When words are too complex to reach across
limitations occurring in the minds of our patients, Paul, his army of
volunteers and pets cross that barrier with their energy and spirit of
love!"<br />
<br />
<em>-Brenda McGarvey<br />
Regional Volunteer Program Coordinator<br />
Unity Hospice<br /></em><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Client Testimonial For Creature Comforts Great & Small<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Submitted to Angie's List<br /></span></span></span></span></span></span><div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1390311226724_4206">
<span id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1390311226724_4205" style="font-size: medium;"><span id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1390311226724_4204" style="font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1390311226724_4203"><span id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1390311226724_4202" style="font-size: x-large;"><span><span style="font-size: 14px;">"I
care for my animals very much and only want the best for them. I was
referred to Paul Flotron to take care of my beloved pets.</span></span><span style="font-size: 14px;"><span> </span>Paul is amazing with the animals! He’s just so good. While I was gone he maintains the cleanliness of the house.</span><span id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1390311226724_4201"><span id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1390311226724_4200"><span id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1390311226724_4199" style="font-size: 14px;">
Paul brought my mail and newspaper in while were we gone, and while
he's
away he maintains the lived in effect. He also gave us a diary of what
he did with the dogs while we were gone everyday. The dogs were healthy,
taken care of, and walked. Paul works 7 days a week. He’s very well
spoken. He's very much dedicated to the animals, his
clients and his business. In closing, it took me 5 years and many
interviews to find someone with such high standards while valuing my
pets as much as I do. To me, that's an irreplaceable feeling<span style="font-size: medium;">."</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span></span></span></span><span style="font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br />Hannah & Ron<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0g5lmWQJRTo/Ut57JchPx9I/AAAAAAAAAeY/IWcHPz1gSWc/s1600/pauldudleysingsing1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0g5lmWQJRTo/Ut57JchPx9I/AAAAAAAAAeY/IWcHPz1gSWc/s1600/pauldudleysingsing1.jpg" height="320" width="212" /></a></div>
</span></span></span></span>PaulFlotronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306725962768179023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8435528399488447511.post-7516184586546207052014-01-20T05:25:00.001-08:002014-01-20T05:25:33.299-08:00Unconditional Love Our Pets Give UsHi Friends!<br />
<br />
Since Valentine's Day is right around the corner, I thought I would talk about love, true love.<strong> </strong>Many
of us enjoy amazing relationships with our companion animals also
appreciate them for the incredible teachers they are. To explain life
with my animals, I need to go back a few years. I was born into a
family made up of animal lovers. As a boy in San Antonio, I helped my
family raise miniature schnauzers. I was there for the dogs’ births,
and we showed the dogs at competitions all over Texas. When I was 10,
we moved to St. Louis, where I accumulated “the Flotron Miniature Zoo,”
including “dwarf crocodiles, African pancake tortoises, birds, boa
constrictors, hermit crabs, fish, and always dogs.”<br />
<br />
Today,
I have my pet-care business Creature Comforts Great & Small,
established and led a pet ministry at a large nondenominational church.
My pet ministry held pet-food drives, supports no-kill rescues, we
would bring our pets to visit the sick and infirm, and organized a
grief group for those who have lost a pet. The decision to pursue
such endeavors was as a result of knowing of the unconditional love
animals freely offer.<br />
<br />
<br />
According to a Chinese
proverb, dogs have so many friends because they wag their tails, not
their tongues. Unconditional love is what we seek as human beings. Our
pets give us that, and nearly always it comes right from the start.
Unless an animal is in recovery, in a rescued situation or have been
caught in the wild, they stand ready and waiting with open hearts to
love us. Through the unconditional love of our pets, we learn what true
loyalty is, what true acceptance is and what true companionship is.
This unconditional love is a true gift: one we may not always deserve
but one that is always there.<br />
<br />
Since I am a visual
person, I like to paint a picture of what I'm describing. I may be a
romantic and so, I have the tendency to allow my heart to lead. Yet, I
am also a visual person. I need to be able to see with my own two
eyes. What does love look like? Being quite intangible, our concept
of love is often unique from one person to the next. Perhaps love to me
looks like a good meal, or something I receive when I have done
something well. For another person, love looks like a gift or a
compliment. For the next, it looks like someone paying attention to
them in a positive or negative way. So is there one truth? One clear
vision of love that surpasses all the rest? I have been so lucky as to
have felt this truth for myself. It seems to be quite rare
unfortunately, but perhaps by bringing it up here, we can increase the
number of people who see love this way.<br />
<br />
So, where is
this great lead-up going? I’m sure a few of you have already guessed!
It’s unconditional love. Love that is within every particle, inside
and outside of us, just waiting to be seen and expressed. It is a love
that has no boundaries, no limits and no conditions. You might even
refer to it as “animal” love, as our pets are about as unconditional as
it gets. They stick it out with us through the good times and the bad,
forgiving and accepting us just as we are.<br />
<br />
As humans, we
tend to pass the habit of conditional love down through the
generations. A mother who loves her child only when they are “good”
stands a good chance of passing this pattern down to her children, and
then their children. I’m sure you have all experienced the moment when
someone closes their heart to you due to something you have done or
not done. Was it pleasant? Have you done this to others? My bet is
that you do it everyday, as I do. So often I meet animals who are
struggling with their own patterns only to be met by the harshness of
conditional love. The moment they engage in their negative behavior
pattern, the love of their people comes to an abrupt halt, with the
insecurity of the animal rising and the behavior pattern worsening.
They hear thoughts and words discussing their potential departure if
they continue the behavior, rather than receiving the space they need
to feel secure enough to change their behavior from the inside out.<br />
<br />
When
I first rescued my parrot into my home, Dudley seemed broken,
distraught and wide-swinging emotions resulting from being tossed around
from one family to another. I am uncertain what Dudley may have
observed or experienced from his life before I took him under my wing.
But, I am certain of one thing. Dudley was happy with his new
lifestyle with me doting on him, pampering and spoiling him beyond his
wildest imagination. From the very first moment I laid eyes on Dudley
and to now, over 21 years later, I hold the same commitment and
devotion. I vow to always provide Dudley with unconditional love,
acceptance and respect. By doing so, I have observed through the years
how Dudley has become more loving and affectionate. Any negative
behavior I have ever seen in Dudley was a result of insecurity and
fear. In all likelihood, a fear brought on through the mistreatment by
humans.<br />
<br />
Dare I say, I may have saved Dudley's life, but
in the process I believe by rescuing Dudley my life was saved. Who
Rescued Whom? According to The Humane Society of the United States,
somewhere between 6 to 8 million cats and dogs are taken in by animal
shelters each year in the U.S., and 3 to 4 million of those cats and
dogs are eventually euthanized. By adopting a pet today, you could be
single-handedly saving a life. That’s a pretty big deal.<br />
<br />
“Until one has loved an animal, a part of one's soul remains unawakened.” Anatole France<br />
<br />
Here's To Always Believing In Love -- Here's To The Unconditional Love Our Pets Give Us!<br />
<br />
Paul<br />
<br />
Paul F. Flotron<br />
Creature Comforts Great & Small, LLC<br />
"Giving your creatures the comfort they deserve"<br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.CreatureComfortsGreatnSmall.com%2F&h=zAQG414aT&s=1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.CreatureComfortsGreatnSmall.com</a><br />
314-200-8561<br />
Cell: 314-775-7107<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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PaulFlotronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306725962768179023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8435528399488447511.post-4496868435828004512014-01-16T05:28:00.001-08:002014-01-16T05:28:18.301-08:00Does Your Dog Like To Run Away, Roam, Explore? How To Prevent...Hi Friends!<br />
<br />
In addition to being able to talk, my
feathered friends' Dudley and Sing-Sing have been gifted with the most
amazing ability, the gift of flight. The gift of flight can be a
blessing and a curse. If a precious pet happens to fly away, it's bad
for everyone -- the domesticated birds of mine, Dudley and Sing-Sing
for example are unable to survive in the wild, and the owners, such as
myself will be emotionally devastated.<br />
<br />
While fly-aways are every bird owner's worst nightmare, the harsh truth is that they <em>do</em>
occur, and more often than we'd probably like to think. The best way to
prevent your pet from flying away is to be diligent in your wing
trimming practices. I love to take Dudley and Sing-Sing everywhere so
that they may always be properly socialized. So, it is especially
important I make sure that Dudley and Sing-Sing's wings are trimmed.
Though some of my clients have parrots for pets, a majority of my
clients have dogs. I always appreciate the opportunity when a client
and I team-up to make sure all issues involving the family pet are
resolved. This introduction is to segue into today's topic involving a
serious concerning a dog's natural behavior.<br />
<br />
A friend
recently asked me how she can make sure her dog knows what home is and
how she can keep her there. Her dog, like numerous others likes to
engage in a self-rewarding behavior of running away. To dogs this is a
completely normal, natural, instinctive, and acceptable behavior. They
are not aware of all the possible dangers of roaming that their humans
worry about. In a dog's mind they are being rewarded when they run away
because of all the interesting things they get to see, smell, and
experience. If it's rewarding for them they assume their human is
supporting this behavior if it is left unchanged...and the cycle
continues.<br />
<br />
There are many reasons as to why a dog will run
away and wander about and they almost always boil down to trying to
get to something or trying to get away from something. A very
understimulated dog will look for adventure of their own to occupy them
both mentally and physically. Dogs with seperation anxiety are also
more likely to run away, especially when there are loud sounds indoors
or outdoors, such as thunder or firecrackers. Other dogs will pick up
on a scent and follow it. This is very typical for hounds, some
terriers, beagles or any other scent dog. Dogs used for hunting or that
have characteristics bred into them making them desirable hunting dogs
may be running off to follow their predatory instincts. Other reasons
for dogs to persistantly run away are mistreatment, psychological
problems, and a need for socialization and or a lack of obedience
training. If a dog is not spayed or nuetered they may be running off to
search for a mate. It is extremely important to spay or nueter your
dog!<br />
<br />
A huge step in keeping your dog in doors and also in
your yard is figuring out what triggers them to run away. If your dog
does not get a lot of alone time with you they may feel bored and
isolated and possibly resentful. It is always a good idea to have many
different kinds of toys both inside and outdoors. Many companies also
sell dog toys that will occupy your canine companion for a long time
such as puzzles or puzzle type treats or stuffed Kong brand toys.
Experiment with different types of toys to find out what your dog is
most intrigued by. It is also a good idea to always have something for
your dog to chew on such as a rawhide, antler, pig ear, hoof, etc. Take
time out of your day to play fetch or frisbee with your dog and be
sure to give them a set amount of time every day to be with you and get
lavished with attention. In our busy lives even ten minutes a night
may seem like a lot but your dog will view this as a wonderful bonding
experience. Another thing that can work towards preventing your dog
from leaving your yard is to take them on long leash walks so they can
safely explore their surroundings but realize you are the one in
charge. Make sure to praise and reward them so they associated
listening to your commands and responding to you as pack leader as a
good idea. Try mixing things up and taking different walking routes to
prevent boredom from routine. You may find that a dog park is a
wonderful place for your dog to socialize and look forward to visiting.
If you are extremely busy you may wish to hire someone to come and
walk your dog for exercise and to help socialize your dog in a secure
and safe environment.<br />
<br />
Also remember that it is never too
late to take a dog to obedience classes or to a refresher course if
they have been through them already. This is a wonderful idea both for
training purposes and for human/dog bonding.<br />
If you have tried
all of these things and still cannot prevent your dog from running
away, you may need to invest in fencing off an outdoor area for your
dog. Make sure your dog will not be able to jump over it or dig under
it, and that the gate is always secured or locked. Some people have had
success in using an invisible fence.<br />
With a lot of time,
consistency and patience your dog will start to realize all the
wonderful things she has in her home (which includes her human/s) and
in her front yard and should start wandering less. This is not an
overnight process but eventually you will be able to keep your dog safe
and in sight.<br />
<br />
Should your dogs have a taste for adventure and like to roam, and you are in need of help, please contact me at anytime.<br />
<br />
Warmly,<br />
<br />
Paul<br />
<br />
Paul F. Flotron<br />
Creature Comforts Great & Small, LLC<br />
"Giving your creatures the comfort they deserve"<br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.CreatureComfortsGreatnSmall.com%2F&h=kAQEKe2o9&s=1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.CreatureComfortsGreatnSmall.com</a><br />
314-200-8561<br />
Cell: 314-775-7107<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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PaulFlotronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306725962768179023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8435528399488447511.post-53041019264002931912014-01-10T07:50:00.000-08:002014-01-10T07:50:07.545-08:00Is Your Dog Itching or Scratching? Dog Allergies - Food<div class="body undoreset" id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1389363671872_20268">
<div id="yiv0128791484">
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1389363671872_20271">
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1389363671872_20270" style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1389363671872_20276">
Hello Friends!</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1389363671872_20269">
<br /></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1389363671872_20273" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
Since
a number of my clients have noticed their dogs scratching or biting
because of an itchiness, I decided to conduct more research concerning
food allergies.</div>
<br />In general, I have hearing about an increase in the number of dogs with health problems that are caused by a food allergy,
or, in any case, that’s what the health problems are being blamed on. With a food allergy, the immune system
reacts too strongly to certain proteins (“allergens”) that occur in
food. Anti-bodies are produced to deal with the allergens, anti-bodies
that non-allergic dogs do not produce. It is the reaction of the
anti-bodies that eventually causes the symptoms.<br /><br />
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1389363671872_20279" style="text-align: justify;">
There is evidence, backed by experience,
that the intestinal bacteria may also be out of balance in the case of a
food allergy. Some even wonder if it is not the out-of-balance
intestinal bacteria that is chief cause of most allergies, leading to
the diagnosis of “false allergies” that actually have nothing to do with
a real hereditary specific allergy.</div>
<h3 id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1389363671872_20281" style="text-align: justify;">
How can “false allergies” come about?</h3>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1389363671872_20283" style="text-align: justify;">
Imagine that your dog suffered from certain real, hereditary food allergies.</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1389363671872_20285" style="text-align: justify;">
Because
our dogs descend from wolves, it would be fair to assume that certain
wolves also suffered from food allergies. Otherwise, the food allergries
could never have been passed on in the genes of our dogs.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1389363671872_20287" style="text-align: justify;">
Assuming that this is the case, we then
have to answer the question how were wolves able to survive? All members
of the wolf pack depended on the seasons and their environment and were
strongly dependent on the prey animals at hand (from large ruminants to
mice) and other seasonally available foods (nuts, roots, excrement,
etc.). Consequently, all wolves in the pack had access to a wide variety
of proteins. Through vomiting, the same proteins were passed on to the
cubs.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1389363671872_20289" style="text-align: justify;">
In
the world of the wolf pack it is – and always has been – “you eat
what’s going as that’s all you’re gonna get”. Imagine that a part of
the pack was
allergic to proteins derived from cattle or reindeer. Those wolves would
have had a serious problem in the “grass season”. Another group would
have had problems in the same period if they were allergic to, for
example, mouflon, etc. Imagine that another part of the pack was
allergic to lemming and mouse-derived proteins. This group would then
have had a serious problem in the winter.</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1389363671872_20291" style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1389363671872_20293" style="text-align: justify;">
If the above had actually been reality,
wolves would have died out long ago or evolved into a species whose
genes no longer had these hereditary and life-threatening defects. Since
our dogs are descended from wolves and carry the same genes, it would
seem highly probably that most allergies should be placed in the
category “false”. Since allergies are usually caused by proteins that
have not been digested fully, it is essential that we find out why
digestion is incomplete.</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1389363671872_20295" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1389363671872_20297" style="text-align: justify;">
A major cause of food allergies is when a
dog develops an oversensitivity (intolerance) for certain chemical
additives in the feed, such as antioxidants, preservatives, colorants,
etc. This type of “feed intolerance” often concerns products that the
dog had no problems with initially. By accumulating in mostly body fat,
liver and/or skin, “regular” quantities of these feeds can result in
adverse reactions over time. Reactions in the intestines, for example,
means that proteins, too, are not broken down properly, resulting in
"allergic" reactions (mostly skin and intestinal problems).</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Another cause of allergies can be found
in modern dog food production methods involving so-called extruding and
expanding which overheat the ingredients to such an extent that
undesirable changes take place in the ingredients themselves. Fats,
especially, are affected (modified) by overheating. For example, these
modified fats disrupt the digestion in the small intestine to such an
extent that the proteins are not broken down properly, resulting in
allergies.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
A number of studies have shown that
where allergies appear, the intestinal bacteria are often out of
balance. This imbalance usually manifests itself in the form of gas in
the stomach, flatulence, diarrhoea or runny stools. If the intestinal
bacteria are not only too few but also contain too few different groups
of bacteria, proteins cannot be digested properly and “food allergies”
are practically inevitable.</div>
<h3 id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1389363671872_20299" style="text-align: justify;">
What to do if a food allergy appears?</h3>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Obviously, we first need to establish
whether we are dealing with a real allergy or a "false" allergy. As is
the case with humans, this can be determined by a skin prick test. If it
is a true hereditary allergy, the test will reveal the nutrient that is
responsible for the allergic reaction and you can make the necessary
changes to your dog's diet.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
However, the skin prick test is often
inconclusive regarding the nutrient responsible, in which case there’s a
good chance that your dog has a so-called “false allergy”. If this is
the case, follow the steps below.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1. Since an allergy often involves an
imbalance in the intestinal bacteria, it is essential to start by
returning your dog’s intestinal bacteria to a stable state of balance.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
You can promote stable balanced
intestinal bacteria by feeding your dog at least 3 times a day (dogs
younger than 2 years 4 times a day) only Complete Fresh Meat Feed
(frozen) over a period of several days. It is important that this fresh
meat feed mainly contains (at least 60%) raw (i.e. unprocessed) tripe.
(We also advise this type of fresh meat feed in cases of a suspected
allergy to beef as this allergy appears to be very rare). This fresh
meat feed must be given to the dog raw and at room temperature. It goes
without saying that the feed must not be defrosted/warmed up in a
microwave as this kitchen appliance will zap all the bacteria your dog
really needs to restore balance to his intestinal bacteria.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In the case of serious diarrhea, give
your dog fresh meat that has “been plunged in boiling water” the first
2-3 days, after which you can give it to him raw. Give your dog this
tripe-rich feed for at least 7 days or, in any case, at least until his
stools are again dark in color and have a firm consistency. Once his
bowel movements have returned to normal, change to a natural holistic
alternative dog food recommended by your veterinarian and animal
nutritionist.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
As a food allergy affects the entire
metabolism, which can take a long time to fully recover, it is important
that in the first few months you give your dog, in addition to Farm
Food HE, complete fresh meat feed (with raw tripe) at least once a week.
When the allergic symptoms have passed, you can change to at least
twice a month. Alternatively, you can mix some raw tripe every day
through your dog's natural holistic alternative dog food.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
If your dog already has healthy,
balanced intestinal bacteria, natural holistic alternative dog food will ensure that these
bacteria remain varied. For dogs that are sensitive to allergies, it is
important that the intestinal bacteria are given a "tune up" every so
often by regularly mixing some raw tripe through his natural holistic alternative dog food.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
2. To ensure that your dog is not eating
any modified or transformed ingredients, it is best avoid
extruded/expanded feed and fried products. You can identify these
products as they tend to float in water.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
3. In any case, do not give your dog any
snacks such as pizzle or pig's ears until the problem has been
resolved. Try giving him instead a tripe stick to chew on.</div>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">
Important!</h3>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It is often the case that the problems
temporarily get worse during the course of the “therapy” outlined above.
This so-called “homoeopathic reaction” is due to the fact that the
metabolism begins by “detoxifying” the entire organism. This reaction is
mostly visible on the skin (loss of hair, itching, boils on soft issue,
etc.).</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal; text-align: justify;">
Should
you have any questions or need clarification in the area of dog food
allergies, I encourage you to consult your veterinarian and animal
nutritionist. I am always available to you as a resource as I care
about you and the health, well-being of your pets.</div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal; text-align: justify;">
Warmly,</div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal; text-align: justify;">
Paul</div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal; text-align: justify;">
Paul F. Flotron</div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal; text-align: justify;">
Creature Comforts Great & Small, LLC</div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal; text-align: justify;">
"Giving your creatures the comfort they deserve"</div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal; text-align: justify;">
www.CreatureComfortsGreatnSmall.com</div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal; text-align: justify;">
314-200-8561</div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal; text-align: justify;">
Cell: 314-775-7107</div>
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PaulFlotronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306725962768179023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8435528399488447511.post-80082459472746363192013-12-24T03:43:00.001-08:002013-12-24T03:43:21.467-08:00Natural Dog Training<div id="yiv6763638887yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1387811250389_23101">
Hi Friends!</div>
<div id="yiv6763638887yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1387811250389_23107">
<br /></div>
<div id="yiv6763638887yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1387811250389_23109" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
I
will spare myself the utter humiliation of revealing to you what I look
like when I'm "asking my birds Dudley and Sing-Sing to exercise." You
see, I begin to "flap my wings -- or arms rather" in an effort to reach
inside for my "inner bird." All joking aside, I'm a firm believer in
accepting others for who they truly are as this is what true,
unconditional love is all about. Since I'm very relationship-oriented
always seeking to bring the best out of anyone I come into contact, the
principles and values inherit in natural animal training has always been
very appealing. So, today, I will discuss what Natural Dog Training is
and
the benefits.</div>
<div id="yiv6763638887yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1387811250389_23111" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div id="yiv6763638887yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1387811250389_23113">
Natural Dog Training is simply based on what is most
natural about the dog, its wildest essence, is good, and that dogs are
social by nature. Even with the most
troubling ‘problem behaviors’, nothing is “broken” and so nothing needs
to be “fixed”. This is because dogs perceive the world and respond to it
according to its laws, rather than according to human reason.
<br />
<br />
By appealing to this part of a dog’s mind and centering
our training models around this idea, a dog’s cooperative and loving
nature can become the most pronounced aspect of its character.
While one may come to Natural Dog Training with questions about
behavior, or help with obedience, Natural Dog Training’s methods are
successful because it is all about working with this aspect, – with your
dog’s energy, rather than fighting against it.
</div>
<br />
The difference in Natural Dog Training is the recognition that energy
itself is a form of information: not only does it animate a dog, but it
actually informs him how to behave. This means that a dog already knows
how to heel, sit, down, stay, come when called, – no matter what! Our
actual job in training then, is not to teach him these things, but
simply to elicit them and create situations where he can naturally
express them. The Natural Dog Training difference is the goal for our
pets to feel good when they are expressing these commands.
Finally, NDT contends that the alpha doesn’t teach wolves or dogs to be
‘obedient’, or even to hunt,- they automatically know how to do it
because the properties of energy are always informing the dog how to
behave, but also because of exposure in a supportive environment.
<br />
<div>
<span class="yiv6763638887userContent"></span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div id="yiv6763638887yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1387811250389_23116" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
So, Natural Dog Training simply put, is the art of
learning how dogs naturally behave with one another in order to
communicate with the dog in its own language. It takes a special person
to fully understand and apply this concept as it requires putting aside
human emotions and putting the needs of the animal first. Many people
try to get their dogs to understand human communication so they can
continue to act human and communicate human towards the dog. Dogs are
less complicated than humans and while it is difficult and sometimes
impossible to make a dog understand human, humans can learn the language
of the dog if they open their minds to the idea. You must work with the
natural instincts of the animal, not against them.</div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div id="yiv6763638887yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1387811250389_23117" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
Some of the best horse trainers and owners are those that apply natural
horsemanship; they learn how horses communicate towards one another and
use the horses’ language to speak to them. Each animal is unique in its
own way. For example, horses are flight animals, meaning they have a
strong instinct to run when they are afraid of something or their life
is at stake. Dogs are fight animals, meaning they have an instinct to
fight as their natural defense mechanism. Just knowing this small fact
about these two animals should tell you that the way you handle a horse
would be different than the way you handle a dog.</div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div id="yiv6763638887yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1387811250389_23119" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
This is what we have to recreate with our dog: an emotional group
climate which our dogs intuitively synchronizes his actions to, in order
to be in harmony with his group. Because dogs are so closely bonded with the human species, most humans
forget, or never even think about, their natural instincts. Some even
take it as far as seeing those who do speak dog to the dog as cruel.
Dogs have a natural instinct to want structure, rules and boundaries.
They want to know where they stand among their pack and believe it or
not, they want to know the rules and they need consistency with those
rules. There are those who believe it is cruel to use natural dogmanship
with a dog, but it is actually more cruel to assume your dog is human,
overlooking its natural wants and needs. Any dog that misbehaves is missing something in its life. A dog's
temperament is a direct result of the owner’s ability to understand him
and give him what he instinctively needs as a canine animal. It's NEVER too late to turn a dog’s behavior around.</div>
<div id="yiv6763638887yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1387811250389_23121" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div id="yiv6763638887yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1387811250389_24081" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
If you would like to learn more and I can be of any assistance in any way, please contact me anytime.</div>
<div id="yiv6763638887yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1387811250389_23123" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div id="yiv6763638887yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1387811250389_23125" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!</div>
<div id="yiv6763638887yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1387811250389_23127" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div id="yiv6763638887yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1387811250389_23129" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
Paul</div>
<div id="yiv6763638887yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1387811250389_23141" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
<br /></div>
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Paul F. Flotron</div>
<div id="yiv6763638887yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1387811250389_23131" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal;">
Creature Comforts Great & Small, LLC</div>
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"Giving your creatures
the comfort they deserve"</div>
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www.CreatureComfortsGreatnSmall.com</div>
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314-200-8561</div>
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Cell: 314-775-7107<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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PaulFlotronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306725962768179023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8435528399488447511.post-8769717653299265602013-12-16T04:34:00.008-08:002013-12-16T04:34:43.248-08:00Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays From Creature Comforts - Paul, Dudley & Sing-Sing<span>Hi Friends & Family!</span><br />
<br />
<span>Dudley, Sing-Sing and I join in extending our warmest wishes for a joyous Holiday Season!</span><br />
<br />
<span> </span><br />
Happy Holidays & Thank You From Creature Comforts<br />
<span> </span><span> </span><br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DcW3DzF3uKg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DcW3DzF3uKg</a><br />
<br />
<span>Christmas
is an exciting time of the year. Gifts to buy, decorating to organize,
crafts to make, cards to write and send, parties to hold, secrets
to keep, and so much more. The festive season will see us rushing
around with barely a moment to spare. That means something will be
forgotten, and many times it's our innocent pets. Our furry
companions are like family - are family. They console us when we're
grieving, stick by us when the whole world thinks we've gone crazy,
and calm us when everything goes pear-shaped</span><br />
<span> </span><br />
<span>
While Christmas may be all fun and games for humans, there are many
hazards for pets at this time of the year. Because you love your pet,
you want the best for them, and do everything possible to ensure
their health and safety. But like children, they don’t come with a
manual. As a result, we struggle and do the best we can.</span><br />
<br />
<span>
Unfortunately our best isn’t always good enough. Second-guessing
can put our beloved pets in danger. And that’s the last thing any of
us want to do.</span><br />
<span> </span><br />
<span> </span><br />
<span>Focusing on cats and dogs, <em>Caring for Pets at Christmas</em> will open your eyes to many hidden dangers for your pets, especially during the festive season. </span><br />
<br />
<span>With
decorations strung across the mantle, mistletoe & finger licking
dishes galore. Not to mention tree's a glow and beautifully adorned
with glistening ornaments you & your pet are sure to get in the
Holiday spirit. However, festive eye catching decorations are bound to
catch the playful attention of the family pet. Whiskers can't resist
climbing great heights to bat at the fragile tree ornaments, while Fido
can't resist the fun urge to use them as chew toys. But what's really
on your dogs mind & stomach is his hankering appetite for the
Christmas ham. Tis is the time for season's eatings!</span><br />
<br />
<span>We
have all heard Christmas horror stories of a Christmas tree being
knocked over by a rambunctious dog running through the room or playing
tug of woof with a string of lights. Of course, your dog always wins
leaving the tree & decorations toppling down. TIMBER!! Or perhaps,
your Christmas dinner has fallen victim to your pups hungry appetite
leaving your empty stomach growling for leftovers, but there aren't
any. No one wants these scenarios being played out or repeated again
this year!</span><br />
<br />
<span> </span><br />
<span>So,
we were so happy to come across a wonderful insightful Christmas
article that gives tips on having a safe, healthy, happy and festive
Holiday with the loving pets in our lives. Let the countdown begin! The
Twelve days of Christmas isn't complete without the ”twelve pet tips
of Christmas” to help keep your dog and cat safe during the eventful
holiday season.</span><br />
<br />
<span> </span><br />
<span>1.
Anticipate your guest's arrivals and confine your dog to prevent it
from escaping or worse yet “soiling” your guest’s clothes with an
unwanted jump.</span><br />
<br />
<span> </span><br />
<span>2.
Reduce your dog's stress by maintaining its regular feeding and
exercise routine. Develop a routine for your dog during holiday parties.
A special treat in a special room of your house works well.</span><br />
<br />
<span> </span><br />
<span>3.
Put packages out of reach! Dogs who smell food in a package will rip
it open. Food is the number one holiday hazard for dogs. The foods that
we eat can cause havoc on an animal's intestines. Put away children's
toys after they are opened. Ingested toys can cause choking and may
have to be removed through surgery.</span><br />
<br />
<span> </span><br />
<span>4.
Tell guests not to share indulgences with your pet. Poultry skin, fat
trimmings, rich gravies, and buttery sauces can cause severe vomiting,
diarrhea, or even worse, a life threatening inflammation of the
pancreas. Also, remember that an ounce of alcoholic beverage can put a
small dog into a coma.</span><br />
<br />
<span> </span><br />
<span>5.
Stow chocolate candy or baking ingredients out of reach. Chocolate is
the most common toxicity treat during the holidays. Small amounts cause
problems. Larger amounts can cause above normal heart rhythms, nervous
system malfunctions, and even death. Secure your garbage in bins with
tight lids. (This is a good habit to get into all year!) A dog can chew
up holiday garbage, which can result in intestinal problems.</span><br />
<br />
<span> </span><br />
<span>6. Buy only decorating products that are labeled non-toxic.</span><br />
<br />
<span> </span><br />
<span>7. Secure large trees to the wall to prevent tipping, or consider a smaller tree that can fit on a tabletop.</span><br />
<br />
<span> </span><br />
<span>8. Remember that stomach problems can be caused by popcorn and gumdrops. Avoid using these strings of edible decorations.</span><br />
<br />
<span> </span><br />
<span>9.
Fasten all your tree decorations securely, with the more fragile ones
at the top. Dogs who chew these can suffer cuts in their mouth from
broken ornaments.</span><br />
<br />
<span> </span><br />
<span>10. Return paper and other gift wrapping materials to their storage places after gift wrapping is finished.</span><br />
<br />
<span> </span><br />
<span>11.
Place holiday plants out of reach and vacuum often. Poinsettia can
cause drooling, oral pain, and vomiting. Mistletoe causes vomiting,
labored breathing, shock, and death from cardiovascular collapse. When
animals eat the needles from real or fake trees, they can also get
intestinal blockage.</span><br />
<br />
<span> </span><br />
<span>12.
Display candles on high shelves to avoid painful burns and singed
Whiskers and make sure that cords are tucked out of reach.
Electrocution can put a huge damper on Holiday festivities.</span><br />
<br />
God's blessings, peace and love throughout the Holidays and always!<br />
<br />
Paul<br />
<br />
(and Dudley & Sing-Sing too)<br />
<br />
Paul F. Flotron<br />
Creature Comforts Great & Small, LLC<br />
"Giving your creatures the comfort they deserve"<br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.CreatureComfortsGreatnSmall.com%2F&h=FAQEjjTDL&s=1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.CreatureComfortsGreatnSmall.com</a><br />
314-200-8561<br />
Cell: 314-775-7107<br />
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PaulFlotronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306725962768179023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8435528399488447511.post-50376290340389557032013-12-16T04:25:00.001-08:002013-12-16T04:25:11.005-08:00Love, Relationships, Loyalty & Animal CompanionsHi Friends!<br />
<br />
Abraham Lincoln said, "I care not for a
man's religion whose dog and cat are not the better for it." Love
between the pet and the owner has been immortalized by many a legends.
Many novels described the love and trust that an animal and the owner
shares. So did many movies. Why even you or me would have had a pet at
some point of time in our lives and loved our association with it. It
is probably one of the purest relationships to experience for anybody.<br />
<br />
We
talk to our pets and they listen. They give us unconditional love and
await our attention. They amuse us and make us feel good about
ourselves. As Samuel Butler famously said, "The great pleasure of a dog
is that you may make a fool of yourself with him and not only will he
not scold you, but he will make a fool of himself too."<br />
<br />
After
a hard day's work, the moment your dog runs to you when you are home
wipes off the day's fatigue. There are innumerable incidents of where a
dog saved his owner or a cat woke up her owner when there was a fire
in the house. Do pets have psychic power? They do. They can understand
when you are standing at the door or when you are depressed. Pets fill
in that void in our lives that no human relationship can fulfill.<br />
<br />
Medical
research says that seniors who own dogs visit a doctor less than who
do not. It is a proven fact that pet owners have lower blood pressure
or that the companionship of a pet helps families and people cope with
serious illness. Playing with your pet burns up to 250 calories an
hour. There are dogs that assist blind people in their daily lives and
there are dogs that help police force in their mission to protect
people.<br />
<br />
But there would probably be fewer people who would
own a pet because of the above mentioned reasons. People who own pets
simply love their pets and any and every benefit that they get because
of the association is just a byproduct. And it is true that once a pet
lover always a pet lover.<br />
<br />
When a pet passes on we feel a
huge loss that seems incomprehensible. It gets difficult to console the
children in the family. Just as a loss of a family member pains us,
losing a pet how much ever inevitable it might be seems difficult to
cope with. We look for ways to immortalize our lost pet. It is
important that we treat the memory of the pet with dignity. That is
probably the first step that we can take in our grieving process.<br />
<br />
Since
we form such close relationships with our pets, perhaps we could learn
through the love we share with our faithful animal companions. Forget
the self-help relationship books, your horoscope and suggestions from
friends. There's one person in your family who might just give the best
advice on love in the business...your pet. Dogs and cats are known for
showing unconditional love, and yet, none of us bothers to look to
them for the "WWYD" answer. The next time you want to rekindle that
loving feelin' with your spouse or revitalize date night, stop and
think: What Would My Pet Do?<br />
<ol>
<li><strong>Greet with Enthusiasm</strong><br />
Whether
your loved one is a solider coming home from overseas or just coming
home from the gym, dogs jump and greet them with excitement. Do the
same. Run to the door. Wrap your arms around them for kiss. Encourage
the whole family to do it, too.</li>
<li><strong>Nestle into the Couch Corner </strong><br />
However
small that extra cushion space is-cats and dogs help themselves to it,
cuddling close to warm up and show their affection. So next time your
partner has a little vacancy, make yourself comfortable. </li>
<li><strong>Say Yes to a Joy Ride</strong><br />
Fido
never says no to a car ride, and neither should you. So cold you don't
want to go outside? Rev up the car and explore. Check out different
towns, beach locations (even off-season) or a quick jaunt to a new
snack shop. You could even hire a dog sitter for Fido for the added
bonus of alone time.</li>
<li><strong>Go Fetch</strong><br />
Sure, fetch
may not be an endearing term but hear us out. Dogs will fetch
anything-a ball, a newspaper, and sometimes, your slippers. Take a cue
from your pup and do the same. Pick up the dry cleaning. Fill up the
gas tank. Plan a date night - and the babysitter. Doing the little
things goes a long way.</li>
<li><strong>Be Loyal</strong><br />
It's
clear to see why dogs are "man's best friend": They're protective,
supportive and show unconditional love. So while you may find certain
traits about your spouse utterly irritating, be his dependable supporter
-- at work, home, and especially, in public.</li>
<li><strong>Take a Different Approach to Walks</strong><br />
Follow
your dog's lead and treat this uninterrupted time alone as your most
anticipated time of day--or better yet, a date! Schedule your dog walker
for morning and afternoon visits, and enjoy the evening walk with your
spouse (and your pooch!). Then get creative. Take turns choosing the
route or destination-it can be a fun way to connect each week.</li>
<li><strong>Forgive the Small Stuff</strong><br />
As
every dog knows, the person who just scolded you also makes you smile
from head to tail. They forgive quickly. Take note, couples. Of course,
you'll want to talk about why you're angry, but then focus on the
appreciation you have for each other.</li>
<li><strong>Show off Your Skills</strong><br />
Roll
over. Sit. Stay. Dogs are always willing to perform tricks for our
amusement (and for the treats that follow of course!). How about
performing some human tricks of your own? Knit a scarf. Hang a picture.
Help with a work situation. These tricks don't have to be incredible
(we haven't seen any dogs perform card tricks) but just something that
will make your loved one smile.</li>
<li><strong>Groom</strong><br />
Cats
are clean creatures and will clean themselves all day just to look
their best. For you, it might mean a haircut, wax, a nice outfit. But
take a cue from your feline friend and get "dolled-up" for your spouse
every once in a while.</li>
<li><strong>Purr with Appreciation</strong><br />
Dogs
and cats know how to show they love what you're doing. Cats purr with
gratitude and dogs wag their tails with excitement -- take time to
thank your spouse. Want to go beyond saying the words? Leave a card for
them in an unexpected place (underwear drawers, work bag). Purchase
flowers for her or his favorite dessert. Even better? Dogs and cats love
to be petted-offer a massage or a back scratch.</li>
</ol>
Your fellow animal loving friend,<br />
<br />
Paul<br />
<br />
Paul F. Flotron<br />
Creature Comforts Great & Small, LLC<br />
"Giving your creatures the comfort they deserve"<br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.CreatureComfortsGreatnSmall.com%2F&h=3AQG3Yc4I&s=1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.CreatureComfortsGreatnSmall.com</a><br />
314-200-8561<br />
Cell: 314-775-7107<br />
<br />
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PaulFlotronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306725962768179023noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8435528399488447511.post-20165717174018958742013-12-16T04:21:00.002-08:002013-12-16T04:21:43.680-08:00Thank God For Animals - Our Pets Make Life Better!Hi Friends!<br />
<br />
Your best friend, companion and greatest
listener might be the one who snuggles up with you during a nap, can't
wait to take a walk in the afternoon, and gives you big sloppy kisses or
purrs when you let them know how much you love them. For those of you
having a pet, you know what I'm talking about.<br />
<br />
Over the
course of 21 years, my pet parrot Dudley and I have been through many
major life changes. I attribute my ability to rise to the occasion in
large part as a result of having my loyal feathered friends Dudley and
Sing-Sing. After a number of serious life blows like the loss of a
marriage, jobs, and any number of bumps in the road, three factors
helped me cope and overcome the trials and tribulations. If it was not
for my strong faith, the support of friends and family along with my
loving pets Dudley and Sing-Sing, I do not know how I would have
survived.<br />
<br />
Research has shown time and again that there are
positive benefits to having a pet in the home when you're going through
a health crisis or dealing with a chronic disease. The positive
benefits are true for all age groups, from young children through
adults.<br />
Some of the benefits include: decreased level of anxiety
and despair, increased feelings of well being, increased social
functioning, and increased mental capabilities. In other words, having a
pet present can really make a difference in your daily quality of life.<br />
They
are a source of comfort and unconditional love; they require nurturing
and attention (which takes the focus off of you and on to them for a
while). Having a pet can also give you a sense of safety and security. A
true companion at any time you might need it!<br />
<br />
Personal
trainer, psychologist, doctor.... Did you know your dog is a
multi-faceted professional? He doesn't need years of schooling to be
able to help you get into shape, be happier about your life, and have
better physical health. It is a talent that comes naturally to animals.
Are you harnessing the healing powers of your pooch?<br />
<br />
Dog as Personal Trainer<br />
<br />
The
best of the animal personal trainers are dogs. Your dog is eager to
celebrate life, and there is no one he would rather do it with than you.
Next time Fido bugs you for a walk around the block or a jog through
the woods, give in to his pleas. It will be great exercise for both of
you. Fetch, tug-of-war, and Frisbee are other fun, healthy games to play
with your dog and help improve fitness.<br />
<br />
Establishing a
regular activity regimen with your dog will lay the foundation for
future motivation and encouragement from your canine trainer. If your
dog expects exercise, his wagging tail and excitement will be the
incentive you need to be active on days when you otherwise don't feel
motivated.<br />
<br />
Even when you're not out being active with your
pet, there's a good chance your furry friend is helping you lose
weight. Most pets are comedians who make us laugh with their daily
antics. Laughing for 15 minutes a day can burn 40 calories, so spend
some quality time with your dog or cat....surely he will find a way to
make you giggle.<br />
<br />
Dog as Psychologist<br />
<br />
"Animals
are such agreeable friends – they ask no questions; they pass no
criticisms." A novelist from the 1800s, George Eliot, wrote these words
in appreciation of the relationship we can develop with pets. Dogs don't
mind what our pasts hold, how we dress, or if we didn't get that
promotion. A true friend through good times and bad, a dog is always
offering unconditional love.<br />
<br />
This unwavering dedication
from dogs provides tremendous emotional support to the people who share
in their lives. A wagging tail and a slobbery kiss, or a head-butt and a
purr are the perfect smile inducers when you're feeling down. A pet
encourages optimism, decreases stress levels, and improves overall
mental health.<br />
<br />
There have been multitudes of studies on
the influences of pets on people. It has been proven that the presence
of an animal can lower a person's blood pressure and heart rate to a
point that is similar to a body's condition after meditation. Next time
you leave work frustrated with your boss, skip that visit to the bar,
and come home to your furry friends. Give them the opportunity to change
your mood and ease your mind.<br />
<br />
Not only do dogs improve
the mental health of their families, dogs also serve as psychologists
publically. Therapy dogs lifted the spirits of both survivors and
rescuers at September 11th's Ground Zero. When grief and horror filled
the minds of all the people who witnessed the attacks, wagging tails
were there to lend comfort and support. Even on such a terrible day,
dogs were able to bring smiles.<br />
<br />
Dog as Doctor<br />
<br />
Through
encouraging exercise and decreasing stress levels, dogs also improve
the physical health of humans. It has been proven that having a dog can
decrease your odds of suffering a heart attack, decrease your recovery
time after a heart attack, improve cholesterol levels, improve vital
signs, decrease frequency of minor illnesses, and help prevent
depression.<br />
<br />
Not only do companion animals improve health
in the everyday lives of pet owners, there are also pets trained
specifically to lend a helping paw and encourage healing in hospitals
and nursing homes. Some therapy pets make regular visits with a handler
to these facilities, and some are resident pets, especially in nursing
homes.<br />
<br />
Therapy dogs are loving, furry friends who have
passed a temperament and behavior test and have met set criteria to be
allowed into medical care settings. During visits, patients pet, brush,
talk to, and play with the therapy dogs. These interactions help the
patient relax, easing worries and dropping blood pressure and heart
rate, which is conducive to well-being and physical healing.<br />
<br />
Some
therapy dogs are even used as encouragement in physical and
occupational therapy. Patients may walk the dog, play fetch with him,
groom him, or speak commands toward the dog as exercises in their
rehabilitation. The presence and enthusiasm of the therapy dog help the
patients relieve their minds of their frustrations and their bodies of
their pains.<br />
<br />
Having assisted my family care for my
grandmother's last few years, I visited my grandma in the nursing home
on a regular and frequent basis. Since my grandma loved my parrot
Dudley, I would bring Dudley along for our visits. Very early on I was
approached by the nursing home's activity director proposing that we
begin a pet therapy program. Fifteen years later, I am still reaching
out to people with animals in order to create smiles.<br />
<br />
I
would love to hear how your pets have impacted your life and the lives
of others. Please share your stories of your beloved animal companions.<br />
<br />
Thank you for your support and friendship!<br />
<br />
Warmly,<br />
<br />
Paul<br />
<br />
Paul F. Flotron<br />
Creature Comforts Great & Small, LLC<br />
"Giving your creatures the comfort they deserve"<br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.CreatureComfortsGreatnSmall.com%2F&h=tAQFbmtJX&s=1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.CreatureComfortsGreatnSmall.com</a><br />
314-200-8561<br />
Cell: 314-775-7107<br />
<br />
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PaulFlotronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306725962768179023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8435528399488447511.post-86023083828525757342013-12-06T16:57:00.002-08:002013-12-06T16:57:25.701-08:00Pet Behavior ModificationHi Friends!<br />
<br />
<br />
Over 21 years ago, I adopted a
beautiful Yellow-Nape Amazon Parrot named Dudley. Not by any fault of
his own, before I welcomed Dudley into my home, Dudley experienced
being passed from one caretaker to the next. With a "colorful past"
and a life offering good material for a soap opera, Dudley's first 12
years involved a number of challenging transitions. Consequently, I
immediately began working with Dudley for modifying negative behavior.
I committed myself to provide Dudley with the best of care,
unconditional love and my devotion.<br />
<br />
To modify Dudley's
negative behavior, I achieved the most success when I provided
structure and clear communication. So, I apply the same approach in my
work with dogs. Dogs ultimately thrive in an environment where they
are provided with clear structure and communication. Desirable
behaviors are rewarded, whereas, undesirable behaviors are discouraged
by implementing clear rules and avoiding any forms of psychological and
physical intimidation. <strong>Modern scientifically-based dog
training and modern dog behavior modification focuses on teamwork, and
ultimately, the creation of a harmonious relationship between dogs and
owners</strong>.<br />
<br />
<br />
Dogs and cats sometimes engage in
behavior that their humans don't like or find troublesome. Both
species respond better to positive responses than to punishment, and
fortunately you can draw on an array of modification tools to encourage
the kind of behavior you want from your pet.<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong>Dog training behavior modification</strong>
is based on changing your dog's attitude and responses. It's different
from standard obedience training, which has a stronger focus on specific
commands and teaching tricks.<br />
<br />
1. Base your training on relaxation. Helping your dog stay calm is at the heart of behavior modification.<br />
<br />
2.
Don't show your dog fear or anger. Instead, create a healthy rapport
between you and your dog based on leadership and respect.<br />
<br />
3. Employ passive behavior modification. Manage your <strong>dog's aggressive behavior</strong> by teaching him to defer to you. You can do this by rewarding him correctly: give him treats only when he is in a calm state.<br />
<br />
4.
Utilize desensitization techniques. This is the process of honing in
on the areas where your dog acts aggressive. Approach such behavior in a
non-threatening way. If he shows aggression toward animals, start
exposing him to other dogs from a distance.<br />
<br />
5. Rely on
counter conditioning in dog training behavior modification. This
involves changing your dog's association with something through
repetitive techniques.<br />
<br />
6. Use positive techniques. Do not
use violence to train your dog. Encourage him through kindness and
respect. You will develop a stronger bond between the both of you and he
will follow your commands better.<br />
<br />
7. Reinforce repetition
and consistency. Build and strengthen good habits by establishing
routines and repeating behavior. Keep up the routines even after your
dog learns the new behavior.<br />
<br />
8. Pump up the exercise. The more activity your pet has the better he will do with his <strong>dog training behavior modification</strong>. Walking and retrieving activities will help him release anxiety and forgo bad behavior, like improper chewing.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong>Positive Reinforcement</strong><br />
Positive
reinforcement, also known as reward-based training, can be an
excellent tool for changing your pet’s behavior. When the animal does
what you want, you provide a reward—a treat, praise or anything else
that motivates her. When she doesn’t obey, you simply ignore her. Most
pets dislike that, so they do whatever will result in attention. Cats
can be more difficult to train than dogs, because they’re usually more
independent and you may have a harder time finding the right incentive.
But if you’re patient and persistent, you should be able to modify
your cat’s behavior using positive reinforcement.<br />
<br />
<strong>Clicker Training</strong><br />
Clicker
training expands on the idea of positive reinforcement. You can use a
clicker designed for this type of training or something like a clicking
pen that you already have in the house. When your pet does what you
want, you immediately click and give him a treat. Eventually, he should
associate the click with the reward and perform the desired behavior
when he hears the click. You need to repeat the training enough for
your pet to learn what you want, and don’t exhaust him with long
sessions.<br />
<br />
<strong>Changing the Environment</strong><br />
Altering
your pet’s surroundings can be an effective tool for preventing
unwanted behavior. For example, if your dog likes to drink from the
toilet, leave the toilet lid down or close the bathroom door to resolve
the problem. If your cat jumps on the kitchen counters, put down
tinfoil or double-sided tape; cats hate stepping on either of those.<br />
<br />
<strong>Provide Other Outlets for Natural Urges</strong><br />
Some
behaviors are natural for dogs and cats. You might not be able to
change them, and trying could take far more time and energy than you
want to spend. Dogs and cats both like to chew. Cats scratch furniture
and climb curtains, while dogs chew your shoes and run circles around
your house. Rather than trying to change the animal's behavior, find
other ways to satisfy these natural urges. Take your dog on on daily
jogs or to the dog park so she gets exercise. Give your cat a scratching
post to sharpen his claws and a cat tree he can climb.<br />
<br />
<strong>Other Options</strong><br />
If
nothing else works in changing your pet's behavior, you might need to
consult a professional behaviorist. Your vet should be able to suggest
someone reputable in your city or area. Make sure this person has the
appropriate training—he should be either a Certified Applied Animal
Behaviorist (CAAB or ACAAB) or a veterinary behaviorist (Dip ACVB).
Another option your vet might suggest is medication. Antidepressants
and anti-anxiety medications can help control symptoms, such as
nervousness and agitation, that could be preventing your pet from
responding to behavior-modification training.<br />
<br />
I am
interested in any experiences you may have had with training and
modifying your pets negative behavior. What worked for you and your
dog? What didn't? Please share your pet's behavior problem and how
you modified it. Did you work it out on your own, with a vet,
behavioral specialist or a trainer? Please share your experiences.<br />
<br />
Thanks for your friendship and support!<br />
<br />
Warmly,<br />
<br />
Paul<br />
<br />
Paul F. Flotron<br />
Creature Comforts Great & Small, LLC<br />
"Giving your creatures the comfort they deserve"<br />
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PaulFlotronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306725962768179023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8435528399488447511.post-1215044521878865842013-11-30T23:12:00.001-08:002013-11-30T23:12:19.173-08:00Socializing Multiple Pets In Your Home<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1385877133172_3796">
Hi Friends!</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_7_1385877133172_91">
<br id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_7_1385877133172_97" /></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_7_1385877133172_94" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px; font-style: normal;">
In
1992, I rescued a beautiful Yellow-Nape Amazon Parrot named Dudley.
For many years after first welcoming Dudley into my home, I thought how
nice it would be for Dudley to have a companion. Much to my delight,
while living in Southern California, I was able to add a sweet, loving
Umbrella Cockatoo into the Flotron Feathered Family. I anticipating for
a match made in heaven and that Dudley and Sing-Sing would quickly
become best of friends. Fast forward to present day, I am more
realistic and happy knowing that Dudley and sing-Sing merely tolerate
one another. Perhaps there is an occasional sign of mutual respect and
appreciation.</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_7_1385877133172_105" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px; font-style: normal;">
<br id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_7_1385877133172_110" /></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_7_1385877133172_107" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px; font-style: normal;">
Resulting
from my experience with introducing a new pet, I decided to conduct
research into how to create positive relationships among pets. My
experience along with my research findings make it clear. Just as there
may exist issues between human siblings, difficulties in relationships
can easily occur in animals as well.</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1385877133172_3804" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px; font-style: normal;">
<br id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_7_1385877133172_17" /></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1385877133172_3810">
Like siblings, sometimes pets in the same family don’t get along. But
this shouldn’t discourage you from opening your home to various pets.
There are many ways to mesh different breeds and species. It’s really
about having ground rules and being consistent with them. Pets need to
know that you’re the one who makes the decisions. They don’t have to be
best friends, but they need to learn to coexist peacefully.</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_7_1385877133172_31">
<br /></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1385877133172_3878">
To help keep your pets — and you — happy, take a look at these common
challenges associated with housing multiple pets. The solutions should
help fuse both canine and feline kinfolk.</div>
<h2 id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1385877133172_3879">
Challenge: Adding a pet to the family</h2>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1385877133172_3880">
<strong id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_7_1385877133172_38">Solution:</strong> When you bring home a new pet, dogs and cats
usually go through three levels of acceptance. First, the original pet will be hostile toward the new
pet. Then, in the second level, the original pet will be tolerant,
changing to an ‘I won’t kill you, but don’t get in my way’ attitude. And
the third level is, hopefully, bonding. Some pets go through this in an
hour; some never get all the way through the process.</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_7_1385877133172_35" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px; font-style: normal;">
<br id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_7_1385877133172_42" /></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1385877133172_4066">
To help smooth this progression, start by making a proper introduction.
Let your pets look at and sniff each other, but don’t allow them to
have physical contact. For example, keep the new pet in a crate while
the other household pets get used to the unfamiliar smell. When not
crated, keep the new pet in a closed-off room, such as a utility room.
Allow supervised interaction only after you think the behavior on all
sides seems calm and friendly. Keep favorite toys out of the area to
avoid spats, and make sure pets have access to a safe retreat, such as a
pet bed or open crate.</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_7_1385877133172_44">
<br /></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1385877133172_4072">
Depending on how your pets react, you might need to monitor short
meetings for some time before giving the pet full access to the house.
Also, consult your veterinarian about introduction tips specific for
your pets and family.</div>
<h2 id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1385877133172_4071">
Challenge: Different dietary needs</h2>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1385877133172_4069">
<strong id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_7_1385877133172_59">Solution:</strong> Pets need to stay out of each other's food
bowls for various reasons. First and foremost, pets of varying ages and
breeds often require different nutrition.
If your dog gets into the cat food or vice versa, serious health
problems could result. Sometimes veterinarians prescribe special food
for certain pets. For example, pets with chronic systemic diseases might
require special diets, as would overweight pets.</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_7_1385877133172_56" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px; font-style: normal;">
<a href="http://www.vetstreet.com/dr-marty-becker/help-your-overweight-pet-slim-down" id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1385877133172_4068"><br /></a></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1385877133172_3806">
The key to ensuring dogs and cats eat only the food intended for them
is to feed all your pets at the same time in separate areas. Feed one in the kitchen, one in the laundry room, et cetera, and
then put away the remaining food. Given the feline
propensity for high places, another solution is to place the cat’s food
on a counter or other lofty location out of your dog’s reach.</div>
<h2 id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1385877133172_3807">
Challenge: Disparate veterinary care</h2>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1385877133172_3808">
<strong>Solution:</strong> You may find your senior dog has you at the
veterinarian for various ailments and checkups several times a year, but
you can’t remember the last time you took your cat to the doctor. Even
though making multiple trips to the veterinarian can be time consuming,
every cat and dog should visit at least once a year. Many problems go undetected. Seeing pets for an
annual exam allows veterinarians to find these problems early and keep
pets healthy.</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_7_1385877133172_62">
<br /></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1385877133172_3809">
One way to ensure all your pets get this vital preventive care is to
schedule all their wellness appointments in the same month. This way
you’re reminded that every pet needs to see the veterinarian in April,
for example.</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_7_1385877133172_20">
Another idea is to ask your veterinary practice about the possibility
of scheduling appointments for multiple pets at the same time. Your
veterinarian might limit the number of pets seen during a single visit.
Keep in mind that the purpose of wellness appointments is to provide you
with a chance to discuss changes to your pets’ health and for your
veterinarian to conduct a thorough examination. This can be difficult if
you’re juggling more than one pet, so opt for this strategy only if it
seems realistic for you.</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_7_1385877133172_21">
<br id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_7_1385877133172_26" /></div>
<h2 id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1385877133172_4276">
Challenge: Cats and dogs that bicker</h2>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1385877133172_4273">
<strong id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_7_1385877133172_73">Solution:</strong> While
your cat and dog
may never snuggle together, you can ensure they don’t hurt each other.
Cats usually know enough to stay away, but we have to work on training
the dog to stay away from the cat, especially the hunting breeds, like
Terriers or Retrievers. I recommend starting the
learning process by doing what I call training an incompatible
behavior. Here’s an explanation: Teach the dog what ‘go lie down’
means. If the dog gets up to chase the cat, tell the dog to ‘go lie
down.’ If he lies down, he won’t be able to give chase, and maybe he’ll
get a treat.</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_7_1385877133172_70" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px; font-style: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1385877133172_4277">
Even pets of the same species tangle over toys, food and your
attention. If these scuffles are happening, try adding more toys to the
mix so pets don’t have to share. Also try coaxing each pet into its own
space. To separate cats, place each cat’s food,
litterbox, scratching post and bed in a different area of the house.
Give dogs quiet spaces of their own, such as a bed or crate where they
can escape from the other household animals. You may need to completely
separate dogs at meal times to avoid conflict. Consistent training and
enforcement of the house rules will keep you in charge of the pack.</div>
<h2 id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1385877133172_4465">
Challenge: One pet dominates your attention</h2>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1385877133172_4561">
<strong id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_7_1385877133172_82">Solution:</strong> Whether because of its personality or needs,
you may find yourself doting on one pet. For example, a new puppy may
absorb your time with veterinary visits, obedience class and potty training.
Or your cat might not interact with you as much as your dog. Cats
aren’t gushy with their affection the way dogs are. But they still want and need affection.</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_7_1385877133172_79" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px; font-style: normal;">
<br id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_7_1385877133172_93" /></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_7_1385877133172_29" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px; font-style: normal;">
Remember that all your pets require daily exercise and mental
stimulation to stay happy, healthy and well behaved. Some pets even
develop undesirable behaviors if they feel bored or lonely. Spread your
love around — and keep your pets out of trouble — by taking all your
dogs for a walk every day and spending quality time with each cat. Soon
your harmonious household will be the envy of families everywhere.</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_7_1385877133172_114" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px; font-style: normal;">
<br id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_7_1385877133172_119" /></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_7_1385877133172_116" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px; font-style: normal;">
If
you are considering adding new pets to your household, please contact
me so that I may be able to assist in the socialization process.</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_7_1385877133172_122" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px; font-style: normal;">
<br id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_7_1385877133172_132" /></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_7_1385877133172_129" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px; font-style: normal;">
Hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving and Happy Holidays!</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_7_1385877133172_134" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px; font-style: normal;">
<br id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_7_1385877133172_139" /></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_7_1385877133172_136" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px; font-style: normal;">
Warmly,</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_7_1385877133172_142" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px; font-style: normal;">
<br id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_7_1385877133172_147" /></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_7_1385877133172_144" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px; font-style: normal;">
Paul</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_7_1385877133172_149" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px; font-style: normal;">
<br id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_7_1385877133172_154" /></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_7_1385877133172_151" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px; font-style: normal;">
Paul F. Flotron</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_7_1385877133172_156" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px; font-style: normal;">
Creature Comforts Great & Small, LLC</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_7_1385877133172_159" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px; font-style: normal;">
"Giving your creatures the comfort they deserve"</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_7_1385877133172_162" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px; font-style: normal;">
www.CreatureComfortsGreatnSmall.com</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_7_1385877133172_165" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px; font-style: normal;">
314-200-8561</div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_7_1385877133172_168" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px; font-style: normal;">
Cell: 314-775-7107</div>
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PaulFlotronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306725962768179023noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8435528399488447511.post-402209502572422132013-11-23T21:31:00.002-08:002013-11-23T21:31:09.127-08:00Thankful For You - Thankful For Dudley & Sing-Sing - Happy Thanksgiving!“What Are You Thankful For? - Gratitude Is My Attitude Because of What I Learned From Dudley & Sing-Sing”<br />
<br />
Hi Friends & Family!<br />
<br />
This is the time of year that I usually like to speak to the virtues of gratitude and recognition of the things that mean most to us in life. Some families have a Thanksgiving tradition of going around the table and each person sharing what they are thankful for. I was wondering what would happen if the family pet was included in that<br />
<br />
family custom; if for just a moment we could talk and listen to our animal family members. What would they be thankful for? Since my parrots Dudley and Sing-Sing do talk, they have shared with me laughter and uttered the word "fun" while playing with their many toys surrounding their cages and parrot play gyms. But, I wonder what else? I am curious about the areas the many animal friends I care for are thankful for -- your beloved animal companions.<br />
People of course feel thankful for valuable life commodities like health, family, a home and successful careers. But our pets I suspect have a different take on things. Just the other day I saw Sing-Sing dancing on her manzanita perch stand and parrot play gym. She was singing to her heart's content and I could virtually see her smiling. I couldn’t resist the temptation to go over and pet Sing-Sing. She was so full of joy and looked so satisfied. For her, at that moment, everything was right in the world. I thought how much I would like to have half as much joie de vivre as Sing-Sing in that moment of singing and dancing. Why was I unable to share in such enthusiasm demonstrated by Sing-Sing as she acted upon the immortal words of Ray Charles "Shake Your Tail Feather?" .<br />
<br />
Later the same day I walked into the room and heard my 33 year-old Yellow-Nape Amazon parrot “Dudley” whistling and expressing himself in the manner of a town crier so that the world could hear. As I approached and opened his cage he happily climbed onto my finger and seemed ever so content with just being there. Just having a few minutes of my undivided attention seemed to make Dudley's day. Especially making Dudley's day was when I pulled out some of his favorite toys such as a rope toy, a sheet and Dudley began to laugh as he was swinging from these great sources of pleasure.<br />
<br />
As I was caring for the many furry best friends of mine, we enjoyed God's amazing creation as we walked, jogged and ran throughout the colorful trees in beautiful parks in the area. Being fortunate to observe dogs running around the many nature trails of Laumeier, Babler, Creve Coeur, and Tilles while frolicking in the leaves gives me so much joy.<br />
There’s no doubt that if animals could weigh in on the question of “what are you thankful for?” I suspect they would stick to the simple things in life like the warmth of the sun or the satisfied feeling of a full stomach. They would likely go on and on about the how special it is to just “be” with someone who cares for you, and how the opportunity to be physically active is something you should never pass up. I have told many people over the years that I truly believe that we can learn so much from animals. Patience, respect, nonjudgmental and unconditional love and loyalty toward others are attributes any person would do well to acquire. But thisThanksgiving season maybe we can learn one more lesson from our beloved pets. Maybe we can learn that no matter what hand we are dealt in life, no matter what trails and tribulations we face every day, no matter how many bad choices we’ve made, or how unlucky we’ve been in the past, we can always be thankful for those little things, that even if just for a<br />
moment or two, seem to make the world right. So the next time you see your pet taking utter joy in some simple, basic things in life, go over and join him. It will do you both good.<br />
<br />
This Thanksgiving, I thank God for You and I thank God for being surrounded by many loving animals.<br />
<br />
A Very Happy Thanksgiving!<br />
<br />
Warmly,<br />
<br />
Paul<br />
<br />
Paul F. Flotron<br />
Creature Comforts Great & Small, LLC<br />
"Giving your creatures the comfort they deserve"<br />
<a href="http://www.creaturecomfortsgreatnsmall.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.CreatureComfortsGreatnSmall.com</a><br />
314-200-8561<br />
Cell: 314-775-7107<br />
<br />
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PaulFlotronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306725962768179023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8435528399488447511.post-10066648315617301692013-11-20T10:11:00.001-08:002013-11-20T10:11:39.364-08:00Pet Dogs Are Part of The Family Yet Not Human - How Do You Treat Your Dog? <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span class="yiv3901986615style15" id="yiv3901986615yui_3_13_0_1_1384843034371_13499" style="font-family: Arial;">Hi Friends!</span></div>
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<span class="yiv3901986615style15" id="yiv3901986615yui_3_13_0_1_1384843034371_13499" style="font-family: Arial;">I
am French and German. At the risk of resorting
to stereotypes, I believe that there are some moments I am more French
(romantic, loving) and other times in which I am German (stoic, rigid
and strong). In my work with
animals, I am so focused on the relationship through showing love and
affection. I also place importance on developing mutual respect with
animals.</span></div>
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<span class="yiv3901986615style15" id="yiv3901986615yui_3_13_0_1_1384843034371_13499" style="font-family: Arial;">The biggest mistake
dog owners can make with their dogs is to treat them like humans. The
human race is such a kind, compassionate species that we tend to look at
our canine companions as little humans, when in reality, they are
canines and have a very different thought process. This is what
differentiates mankind from other species in pack societies; there must
be a specific order, from the leader on down to the last follower.
Everyone has a place. The leaders are the strength of the pack, while
the followers need the leader to guide them. Dogs have an instinct to
constantly test the being above them and an instinct to know they will
always be tested by the being below them. Instinct tells them that if
there is not a strong being in charge, their life and the lives of the
rest of their pack are at stake. This primal instinct keeps the pack
secure and happy.</span></div>
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<span id="yiv3901986615yui_3_13_0_1_1384843034371_13595" style="font-family: Arial;">Dogs instinctively crave rules to
follow, and limits as to what they are allowed to do. When dogs live
with humans, the humans become the dog's pack. For the relationship to
succeed, humans must become the dog's pack leader. <span id="yiv3901986615yui_3_13_0_7_1384843034371_208" style="text-decoration: underline;"></span><span id="yiv3901986615yui_3_13_0_7_1384843034371_194" style="text-decoration: underline;"></span>
The mistake is made when the humans in the pack only give the dog love,
and overlook the other needs of the dog. To a dog, constant affection
without rules and limits goes against every grain in its instinct.
While dogs enjoy being given affection, it does not satisfy the animal
and it is not what makes them well balanced, stable minded, secure and
happy. Dogs love affection, however that alone does not make a dog
happy, satisfying its instincts do. You need to provide proper emotional
stability in order to achieve this, and showing you have an orderly
pack with rules to follow is what the dog needs. Giving your dog
affection is important for the human, and enjoyed by the dog, but must
be done at the correct times.<br clear="none" /></span>
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<span id="yiv3901986615yui_3_13_0_1_1384843034371_13817" style="font-family: Arial;">A dog is an animal and does not
possess the same reasoning skills as a human. Dogs do have emotions, but
their emotions are different than those of humans. They are simple
creatures with instincts, and their emotions lack complex thought
process. They feel joy when they know you are pleased, they feel sad
when someone dies. However, they do not premeditate or plan ahead, and
do not dwell in the past or future. They live for whatever is happening
at the moment.<br clear="none" /></span></div>
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<span id="yiv3901986615yui_3_13_0_1_1384843034371_13909" style="font-family: Arial;">Let’s say that you are upset over
something that has happened in your life, for example, your girlfriend
or boyfriend just broke up with you. Your dog will know you are upset,
but it will not know why. Your dog is unable to reason out in its head
that you have just been broken up with. Its interpretation of you will
be that you have unstable energy and it will see you as weak.</span></div>
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<span class="yiv3901986615style15" id="yiv3901986615yui_3_13_0_1_1384843034371_13814" style="font-family: Arial;">Similarly, when a
human shares its affection with a dog that is in any other state of mind
but a calm, submissive one (for example, aggressive, obsessive, shy,
skittish, fear or hyperactivity, etc.) and you give it a hug or pat it
on the head and tell it all is OK, it is comforting to the human, but
intensifies the dog’s current state of mind. You are telling the dog it
is OK to feel that way. While a human feels they are comforting the dog,
the dog sees it as a weakness, as you are not providing strong energy
from which the dog can feed. If your dog has a traumatic experience and
you show it affection during that time by trying to comfort it, rather
than letting it work through the situation in its own mind and being a
strong leader it can feed from, you leave it stuck in that state of
mind. Later when your dog faces this traumatic situation again, when you
comfort the dog, this intensifies the situation even more. You are
creating the problem. Dogs do not see comfort and affection in the same
way we humans see it. Dogs are always looking for a strong stable being
to feed from.</span></div>
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On the same note: when a dog is
constantly leaning on you, putting his paw on you, using his nose to
make you pet him, and always feeling the need to be touching you in some
way, this is not your dog loving you, it is your dog displaying dominant<span id="yiv3901986615yui_3_13_0_7_1384843034371_520" style="text-decoration: underline;"> behaviors.</span><span id="yiv3901986615yui_3_13_0_7_1384843034371_497" style="text-decoration: underline;"></span><span id="yiv3901986615yui_3_13_0_7_1384843034371_490" style="text-decoration: underline;"></span>
In the dog world, space is respect. A dog that is constantly nudging
you and leaning on you, is not only disrespecting you, it is being the
alpha dog.</div>
<br clear="none" />If a dog has an operation and you feel
sorry for the dog—at a time in the dog's life when it needs a strong
pack leader more than ever to feed from—you instead become weaker in the
dog’s mind.<br clear="none" /><br clear="none" />
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If
you show weakness to your dog, the
dog instinctively takes over the role of leader whether he wants to or
not, because there must be a strong leader
and an order in a dog's pack. If the dog does not feel he is strong
enough to handle the role of leader it can be very stressful, and even
terrifying, for the dog to have such a heavy weight on its shoulders, as
it tries to look after all of the humans around it. Humans often give
the dog mixed leadership signals, which throw the dog off balance,
confusing his psyche, and causing many of the psychological/behavioral
problems we see in dogs today. Mental tension and energy build up within
the dog, which lead to many common canine behavior issues: eliminating
in
the house, obsessive behaviors, neurotic behaviors, chewing on
themselves, being overly excited, barking excessively, whining, not
following their owner’s commands, not coming when called, running off,
getting into the trash, destroying things in the house, obsessively
digging, chewing the furniture, tail-chasing, scratching, aggression
toward other dogs, animals, or humans, snapping, biting, growling, and
becoming just plain old uncontrollable (just to name a few). Whatever
the problem is, it is more likely than not, traceable back to the way
you treat your dog. In some cases it may appear the dog is just nuts, or
psycho, and there is nothing one can do about it.<br clear="none" /></div>
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This is also the number one cause of separation anxiety.
In a pack, the leader is allowed to leave; however, the followers
never leave the leader. If your dog is instinctively seeing you as its
follower and you leave it, the dog can be so mentally anguished that it
will often take its frustration out on your house or itself.<br clear="none" /><br clear="none" />I would appreciate assisting you with establishing greater respect and you as "leader of the pack, please contact me at anytime.<br clear="none" /><br clear="none" />Thanks so much!<br clear="none" /><br clear="none" />Paul<br clear="none" /><br clear="none" />Paul F. Flotron<br clear="none" />Creature Comforts Great & Small, LLC<br clear="none" />"Giving your creatures the comfort they deserve"<br clear="none" /><a href="http://www.creaturecomfortsgreatnsmall.com/" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" target="_blank">www.CreatureComfortsGreatnSmall.com</a><br clear="none" />314-200-8561<br clear="none" />Cell: 314-775-7107<br clear="none" /></div>
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PaulFlotronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306725962768179023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8435528399488447511.post-54441868458014037282013-11-17T11:34:00.002-08:002013-11-17T11:34:37.637-08:00Holiday Giving Pets - Happy Holidays!<div id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_3956">
<span id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_1542" style="font-size: x-small;"><span id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_1539" style="font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif;"><span id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_26">Hi Friends!</span></span></span></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_38" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 13.3333px; font-style: normal;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /><span id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_26"></span></span></span></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_41" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 13.3333px; font-style: normal;">
<span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_7930" style="font-size: x-small;"><span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_7931" style="font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif;"><span id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_26">My two favorite seasons being Fall and Spring. Fall offers an array of beautiful colors and relief from the sweltering heat. Spring offers a rebirth of flora and fauna after a long dormant Winter. I must confess that the older I become the more I find myself complaining about the weather. November is a month clearly revealing to us that the frigid cold Winter season is lurking right around the corner.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif;"><span id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_26"><br id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_938" /></span></span></span></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_934" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 13.3333px; font-style: normal;">
<span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_12057" style="font-size: x-small;"><span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_12056" style="font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif;"><span id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_26">Every minute we are able to take a breath is a moment to give thanks. November is a month set aside as a reminder to appreciate the many blessings we are given. As I am a sentimental man, I treat my relationships as sacred and consider far more important than anything else. For example, I view Dudley, my Yellow-Nape Amazon Parrot as a gift from above. I welcomed Dudley into my home on November 3, 1992. It was a day I will never forget. Not just because it happened to be our National Election Day. That particular day was all about Dudley and that day was Thanksgiving Day as far as I am concerned.</span></span></span></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_1403" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 13.3333px; font-style: normal;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /><span id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_26"></span></span></span></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_5191">
<span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_12059" style="font-size: x-small;"><span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_12058" style="font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif;">This year, Nov. 28 is Thanksgiving and the first full day of the
eight-day Jewish festival of lights, which begins at sundown the
previous night.</span></span></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_1411">
<span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_5596" style="font-size: x-small;"><span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_5597" style="font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif;">For many Jewish Americans, this is no trivial convergence, but a
once-in-an-eternity opportunity to simultaneously celebrate two favorite
holidays, one quintessentially American, the other quintessentially
Jewish.</span></span></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_1566" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;">
<br /><span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_5596" style="font-size: x-small;"><span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_5597" style="font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif;"></span></span></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_1570" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;">
<span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_5596" style="font-size: x-small;"><span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_5597" style="font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif;">Regardless of your faith or religion, Christian, Jewish or other, families throughout the country are preparing for a special time of year. For me, it is reflecting on a childhood always anxiously anticipating opening up gifts, the beautifully decorated Christmas tree and most importantly being with family.</span></span></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_27" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 13.3333px; font-style: normal;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /><span id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_26"></span></span></span></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_30" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 13.3333px; font-style: normal;">
<span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_5589" style="font-size: x-small;"><span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_5588" style="font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif;">In my family we celebrated baby Jesus in a manger. For now, I want to set everything aside to share with you the gifting of animals during Christmas and the Holiday Season. Without question, there are not a lot of things cuter than a baby puppy or kitten,
except for maybe a tiny furball leaping after wrapping paper on
Christmas morning as the children squeal and clap with delight at their
new <em id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_4229">living</em> present. That’s right -- a puppy for Christmas!</span></span>
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<div id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_5193">
<span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_5586" style="font-size: x-small;"><span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_5587" style="font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif;"><br id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_1551" /></span></span></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_1552" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;">
<span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_5586" style="font-size: x-small;"><span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_5587" style="font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif;"></span></span><span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_5586" style="font-size: x-small;"><span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_5587" style="font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif;">Last year, a good friend of mine gave her teenage son a
sweet little pug puppy for Christmas. The photos on Instagram and
Facebook were completely precious, and it’s obvious the entire family is
in love with this ridiculously adorable little girl. </span></span></div>
<span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_5593" style="font-size: x-small;"><span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_5592" style="font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />But isn’t
gifting animals for holidays a bad idea? How many abandoned chicks and
bunnies at Easter, black cats at Halloween, and puppies at Christmas do
we have to hear about before people will stop doing this?<br /></span></span>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_4223">
<span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_5590" style="font-size: x-small;"><span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_5591" style="font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif;">Before we jump all over someone’s case for buying their kid a pet for
Christmas -- let’s remember that every situation is unique, and
sometimes a puppy as a present is a great idea. It all comes down to the
motivation.</span></span></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_2027" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;">
<span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_5590" style="font-size: x-small;"><span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_5591" style="font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_4224">
<span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_6520" style="font-size: x-small;"><span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_6519" style="font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif;"><strong id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_7005">It is never ok to buy a pet on a whim.</strong> Ok, maybe a
beta fish. But that’s it! Then you find yourself walking by the pet
store in the mall while you’re Christmas shopping, the sweetest set of
brown eyes accompanied with the most adorable little pink tongue catches
your eye. It looks so cooped up there in that pet shop kennel …
couldn’t we just take him home? We’d be rescuing him, and the kids will
love him, and <em>it’s Christmas</em>! Try to remember that by buying from a pet store, you’re probably helping to fund cruel puppy mills. Then keep walking.</span></span></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_4225">
<span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_7252" style="font-size: x-small;"><span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_7251" style="font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif;">Unless you’ve worked it out in advance with the parents after careful consideration and planning, <strong id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_4228">never ever buy a pet as a gift for another family</strong>.
Beta fish included. And even then, this scenario might only be
appropriate if you’re a relative or very close family friend that a)
breeds dogs responsibly yourself, and you’re gifting one of the litter,
or b) have bonded with the children over your own dog, and now with mom
and dad’s permission, are presenting them with their very own snuggle
puppy. Otherwise -- just no.</span></span></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_4227">
<span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_7254" style="font-size: x-small;"><span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_7253" style="font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif;"><br id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_2046" /></span></span></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_2041" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;">
<span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_7254" style="font-size: x-small;"><span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_7253" style="font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif;">The only time puppies or other pets make wonderful, perfect Christmas gifts is <strong id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_4226">when you’ve already made the big decision to adopt a pet</strong>,
and Christmas provides the opportunity to make it a ‘present.’ That’s
what happened in my friends’ case. They had a pug they loved that died
of old age last year after a long, happy life. The decision to add to
the family again was made carefully, and it just happens that they
decided to wait until Christmas to make it happen.</span></span></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_7257">
<span id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_2050" style="font-size: x-small;"><span id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_2049" style="font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif;"><br id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_2065" /></span></span></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_2060" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;">
<span id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_2050" style="font-size: x-small;"><span id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_2049" style="font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif;">That’s responsible pet parenting.</span></span></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_2052" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;">
<span id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_2050" style="font-size: x-small;"><span id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_2049" style="font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_36">
<span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_7512" style="font-size: x-small;"><span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_7511" style="font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif;">Have you ever given or been given a <em id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_2074">live</em> gift?</span></span></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_2068" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: italic;">
<br /><span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_7512" style="font-size: x-small;"><span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_7511" style="font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif;"></span></span></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_2075" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: italic;">
<span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_7512" style="font-size: x-small;"><span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_7511" style="font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif;">Please feel free to share your experiences. I always welcome your input and feedback is always appreciated.</span></span></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_2106" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: italic;">
<br /><span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_7512" style="font-size: x-small;"><span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_7511" style="font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif;"></span></span></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_2110" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: italic;">
<span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_7512" style="font-size: x-small;"><span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_7511" style="font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif;">Wishing you and your families a blessed Thanksgiving and Holiday Season!</span></span></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_2115" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: italic;">
<br /><span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_7512" style="font-size: x-small;"><span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_7511" style="font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif;"></span></span></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_2119" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: italic;">
<span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_7512" style="font-size: x-small;"><span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_7511" style="font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif;">Warmly,</span></span></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_2124" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: italic;">
<br /><span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_7512" style="font-size: x-small;"><span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_7511" style="font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif;"></span></span></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_2128" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: italic;">
<span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_7512" style="font-size: x-small;"><span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_7511" style="font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif;">Paul</span></span></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_2133" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: italic;">
<br /><span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_7512" style="font-size: x-small;"><span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_7511" style="font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif;"></span></span></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_2137" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: italic;">
<span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_7512" style="font-size: x-small;"><span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_7511" style="font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif;">Paul F. Flotron</span></span></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_2142" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: italic;">
<span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_7512" style="font-size: x-small;"><span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_7511" style="font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif;">Creature Comforts Great & Small, LLC</span></span></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_2147" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: italic;">
<span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_7512" style="font-size: x-small;"><span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_7511" style="font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif;">"Giving your creatures the comfort they deserve"</span></span></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_2155" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: italic;">
<span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_7512" style="font-size: x-small;"><span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_7511" style="font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif;">www.CreatureComfortsGreatnSmall.com</span></span></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_2163" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: italic;">
<span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_7512" style="font-size: x-small;"><span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_7511" style="font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif;">314-200-8561</span></span></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_2168" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: italic;">
<span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_7512" style="font-size: x-small;"><span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_7511" style="font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif;">Cell: 314-775-7107</span></span></div>
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<span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_7512" style="font-size: x-small;"><span id="yui_3_13_0_1_1384712034141_7511" style="font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_15" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 13.3333px; font-style: normal;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: verdana,helvetica,sans-serif;"><br id="yui_3_13_0_7_1384712034141_22" /></span></span></div>
PaulFlotronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306725962768179023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8435528399488447511.post-23343036644291503072013-11-14T05:09:00.004-08:002013-11-14T05:09:47.255-08:00SEEKING A PET CARE ASSOCIATE - PET CARE PROFESSIONALS<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">SEEKING PET CARE PROFESSIONALS</span><br />
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"></span><br />
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">In my pet care business Creature Comforts Great & Small, I am becoming involved in a variety of niche areas.</span><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">
For instance, ensuring that a family's animal companions receive the
best of TLC and eliminate any possibility of anxiety, I am providing pet
care for those animal lovers relocating. Also, I have existing clients
and new clients with second homes and condos outside of St. Louis.
Clients <span class="text_exposed_show">wanting to take their beloved
pets with them while they enjoy an extended stay in warmer pastures. I
have one client I just met with who wants to take her 2 cats to stay at
her condo in Florida for a couple of months. I will be providing pet
care to her cats while helping her drive and/or fly (airline
restrictions for 1 cat per passenger). To consistently guarantee
superior quality pet care services to my clients are maintained during
my absence, I am seeking trustworthy, reliable and experienced pet care
professionals. If you or anyone you know are interested in earning a
supplemental income while doing what you love (loving on animals),
please contact me at 314-200-8561. I am passionate about this business
-- I am passionate about animals -- and would love to talk to you about
our shared love for animals -- and how that translates into providing
the BEST TLC for family pets. Thank you!</span></span><br />
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show"></span></span><br />
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show">With kind regards,</span></span><br />
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show"></span></span><br />
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show">Paul</span></span><br />
<br />
Paul F. Flotron<br />
Creature Comforts Great & Small, LLC<br />
"Giving your creatures the comfort they deserve"<br />
www.CreatureComfortsGreatnSmall.com<br />
<br />
314-200-8561<br />
<br />
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<br />PaulFlotronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306725962768179023noreply@blogger.com0