The Benefits Of Getting County Dog Tags In Ohio

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As a dog owner in Ohio, one of the most important responsibilities is ensuring your pet is properly licensed. In Ohio, this is achieved through county-issued dog tags. While this might seem like just another chore, there are several valuable benefits to getting your dog’s tag every year. In this blog post, we’ll explore why obtaining county dog tags in Ohio is a smart decision for both you and your furry friend.
1. **Legal Requirement**
In Ohio, every dog three months or older must be licensed annually. County dog tags help you comply with this state law. Failure to get a license can result in fines or penalties, so it’s crucial to stay on top of the registration process. By getting a dog tag, you’re ensuring that you’re following the law and avoiding any unnecessary legal trouble.
2. **Improved Identification**
Dog tags serve as an important identification tool. If your dog gets lost, the tag provides a quick way for anyone who finds your pet to identify them and contact you. In many Ohio counties, dog tags include the dog’s license number, which can be traced back to the owner. This can greatly increase the chances of a lost pet being returned home safely.
3. **Helps Local Animal Shelters**
The fees collected from dog tag registration go toward local animal shelters and pet-related initiatives. By purchasing a dog tag, you are directly contributing to the welfare of animals in your community. The funds help provide care for stray animals; support adoption programs, offer low/no cost vaccines, microchips, spay/neuter programs; and assist with pet education and awareness campaigns. It’s a small way to give back to the local animal welfare system.
4. **Quick and Easy Process**
Getting your dog tag in Ohio is a straightforward and simple process. You can often apply online, by mail, or in person at your county auditor’s office. The annual cost is typically low, and the process is designed to be convenient for pet owners. Plus, the tags are durable and designed to last throughout the year, so you don’t have to worry about frequent replacements.
5. **Peace of Mind**
Having your dog tagged and properly licensed provides peace of mind. Knowing that your pet is registered with the county and that you are in compliance with Ohio law helps alleviate any worries about potential fines, lost pets, or animal control issues. It also ensures your pet is part of the larger community of animals, which can lead to a safer, more organized environment for pets and their owners.
Obtaining county dog tags in Ohio is more than just a legal formality—it’s a step toward ensuring your dog’s health, safety, and wellbeing. From supporting local shelters to ensuring your pet is easily identifiable, the benefits of licensing your dog are numerous. Take the time each year to get your dog’s tag, and rest easy knowing that you’re doing your part to keep both your pet and your community safe.
So, whether you’re registering for the first time or renewing your dog’s tag, make sure to check your State’s licensing requirements and get your dog properly tagged today!
Nicole Laber, Cofounder and Fospice Mom

Veterinary Mythbusting

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Myth 1: Any CBD product will work. 

With increasing marijuana legalization and interest, there’s been an explosion of CBD products for both people and pets. However, marketing has gotten ahead of science. There is promise for certain conditions like pain and epilepsy. But, other claims like improved coat health appear to have limited evidence. There is wide variation in quality and effectiveness because of the lack of oversight. Compared to prescription medications, CBD products are supplements with significantly less oversight. As a result, there are many substandard products on the market. According to Cornell University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, “a study that evaluated 29 CBD products for pets and found heavy metal contamination in four of the products. The research team determined that two products had no cannabinoids in them. Of the remaining products, only 10 were measured to have a total cannabinoid concentration that was within 10% of the amount that they claimed to have on their label.” 

Use careful consideration in selecting a product. Given the abundance of approved, well studied, and regulated products available for most conditions, any CBD product should be viewed as supplements in a therapy plan. 

Myth 2: Canned pumpkin helps treat diarrhea.  

The fiber in canned pumpkin is vastly overrated compared to fiber supplements or therapeutic high fiber diets for pets. In fact, to feed the same amount of fiber as a therapeutic diet or supplement to a medium sized dog, you’d have to feed about 12 cups of canned pumpkin per day! For a cat, it’d still be a large amount – 2 and ½ cups! The volume alone will fill up your pet, which will mean they will miss out on getting other key nutrients in their diet. When pets improve while being fed pumpkin, it is likely a result of the increased water intake and the fact that many cases of acute diarrhea improve within days on their own. Better sources of fiber include unflavored, unsweetened versions of Benefiber or Metamucil or therapeutic high fiber diets. The type and amount depends on the size of the pet and what type of diarrhea they are having – always check with a veterinary professional! Any pet that seems ill, has repeat diarrhea cases, is a puppy/kitten, or has recently been around other cats or dogs should be evaluated by a veterinarian. 

Myth 3: Fleas can’t get pets indoors or in the winter. 

This risk of fleas is lower in the cooler months, but it’s growing. The vast majority of cats I see in practice with fleas are classified as “indoor only” — and there are virtually no dogs that never go outside. If we were able to jump like fleas, we could jump over skyscrapers – it’s no wonder they can get inside! Also, because our winters are warmer now, there seems to be no decrease in the number of flea cases in dogs or cats in the winter months. 

Myth 4: Benadryl will help itchiness. 

Benadryl (and other similar medications like Claritin) are antihistamines. They block the action of a molecule called histamine that causes a lot of allergy symptoms in people. But, histamine plays very little – if any – role in pets’ skin allergies. Our pet’s itchy skin is better compared to eczema than our seasonal allergies. There are a variety of medications that better control these symptoms. These should be paired with strategies to help reduce or avoid exposure and sensitivity. 

While we’re at it – pets are more likely to have food allergies to a food they have eaten for a long time, not a new diet! Also, proteins trigger allergies and pets become allergic to the protein regardless of the diet quality. 

Ken Brunson DVM, Board Member

Mammary Cancer Awareness

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What better time to talk about mammary cancer in dogs than National Breast Cancer Awareness Month? After all, mammary cancer in dogs is very similar to breast cancer in humans. The difference, though, is that mammary cancer in dogs is many times preventable. Imagine if there was a way that we could prevent 99% of breast cancer diagnoses? That would be amazing, wouldn’t it? Unfortunately, we can’t do that for humans, but we can do it for dogs!
Spaying a female dog before her first heat cycle has been proven to be over 99% effective in preventing mammary tumors. A simple surgery can prevent so much suffering down the line. A small scar that will be forgotten by the dog in a week.
Not only does spaying your dog prevent most mammary tumors, but it gives many other benefits as well. One of which is no accidental or unwanted litter of puppies. Help control the very out of control pet population; please spay and neuter your pets.
For more information on preventing, diagnosing, and treating mammary tumors, here is a great article.
Nicole Laber, Cofounder and Fospice Mom

Signs Of A Senior Pet

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Watching our pets grow older is a bittersweet experience. The longer they’re with us the more memories we develop and experiences we share, but it’s hard to watch them age. We owe it to them to address their needs and make sure they’re well cared for given all of the support they provided us over the years. Recognizing the signs that your pet is aging is crucial to providing the best care in their golden years. Here’s how to tell if your pet is entering their senior years, what to expect, and when to be concerned.

Understanding “Dog Years”

Have you heard the saying that “one dog year equals seven human years”? While this rule of thumb offers a rough idea, it doesn’t capture the differences among different breeds and sizes and doesn’t really apply to cats at all. Smaller dogs tend to live longer than larger dogs and, often, they age more slowly. Cats more closely “follow” small dogs. For example, a 10 year old small dog or cat is about 56 years old, but a giant breed dog like a Great Dane at 10 years old is 80 years old. 

When is My Pet a Senior?

According to the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) and the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP), pets are considered senior at the last 25% of their expected life span. This depends on breed and size, but the following guidelines are generally used:

  • Small dogs (under 20 pounds): 10 years old + 
  • Medium dogs (21-50 pounds): 7 years old +
  • Large dogs (51-90 pounds): 6-7 years old + 
  • Giant dogs (over 90 pounds):  5 years old +
  • Cats: 10 years old + 

What is Normal Aging?

The age guidelines are based on when some expected changes are likely to be detected in your pet. Age is just a number, and we all undergo this process at different rates. However, we expect certain changes to occur in our pets. This includes:

  • Changes in vision and hearing: Mild cloudiness in the eyes and some hearing loss are typical in dogs but less common in cats. 
  • Weight changes: While many pets maintain their appetite, their activity tends to decrease to gaining weight, but losing muscle mass is the most common outcome. 
  • Reduced mobility: Joint stiffness and slower movement are extremely common. In fact, more than 90% of cats over the age of 10 have arthritis. Older pets might take their time getting up and moving around or have difficulty accessing parts of the house. 
  • Behavioral changes: They may be less interested in playing or more anxious about new situations. Sleep cycles or house training may change. 
  • Skin and coat changes: You might notice gray hair, especially around the muzzle or face.  Their coat might be duller or that may groom themselves less frequently. Sometimes, pets may overgroom an area that is painful. 

Distinguishing Normal Aging from Disease

While many changes are part of normal aging, others might indicate underlying health issues. Here’s how to tell the difference:

Normal Aging:

  • Gradual onset of symptoms. These may be only noticed by looking back at previous photos or videos or noted by someone who has not seen your pet in a while. Or, you may realize one day that things have changed without necessarily thinking about it beforehand. 
  • Mild changes in behavior and activity. If there is a dramatic change, something else may be going on. 

Potential Health Issues:

  • Sudden changes in behavior, weight, or appetite
  • Severe mobility issues or pain
  • Significant changes in drinking and urination
  • Persistent coughing or difficulty breathing

If you notice any of these signs, it’s essential to consult your veterinarian. Conditions like arthritis, diabetes, kidney disease, and dental disease are more common in older pets but can be managed effectively with proper care. The best prevention for many of these diseases is twice yearly senior wellness exams for your pet. Our pets cannot speak for themselves, but veterinary professionals can work with you to combine your knowledge of your pet with their expertise to determine what can be done to help keep your pet comfortable and happy. 

Home Care for Your Senior Pet

Providing the best care for your senior pet involves a balanced diet, moderate exercise or enrichment, a consistent and predictable environment, and lots of love and attention. Adjusting their diet to accommodate lower energy levels and ensuring they stay active without overexertion can help maintain their health and prevent additional wear and tear on their joints. While some pets may perk up with a new companion, this may not always be the time to adopt a younger pet. 

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Remember, every pet ages differently. Pay attention to their needs and changes, and always seek veterinary advice if you’re unsure whether a change is aging or a sign of something else. By staying informed and proactive, you can ensure your loyal pet enjoys their senior years comfortably and happily.

Ken Brunson DVM, Board Member

Helping Create A Healthy Bonded Pair

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As of 2024, 66% of U.S. households (86.9 million homes) own a pet. Over one third of Americans (35%) have more than one pet. As pet lovers and owners, we all know someone, if not ourselves, that has more than one pet that has been together since they were quite young.  This is what could be known as a bonded pair. A bonded pair will depend on each other in different ways;
  • They tend to wait for the other one to eat and make sure the other one is getting food/treats; they often share food and toys.
  • They show signs of affection such as cleaning the ears, licking the face, etc.
  • They have lived together for an extended period of time.
  • They might get particularly stressed or anxious when they are separated for any reason.
  • They feel the need to play a role among each other, dominance or submissive.
As pet owners, we might see this as a relationship that just happens and is natural. This may be, but is each pet living a fulfilling life? How is your bond with each pet? The time will come when one has to live without the other. Or an unfortunate event might happen that will leave them having to live apart.
There are a few simple things that can be done to enhance the quality of your pack for you and each pet.
  • Train each pet individually. Take the time to work with only one pet at a time.
  • Separate walks and playtime.
  • Discover individual “jobs” for each pet according to their strengths and enjoyment. e.g. going to get the mail, car rides to the gas station, pet store visits, any regular activity that can include your pet.
  • Taking turns for affection.  e.g. cuddling, grooming, sleeping
Take the time to find out what your pets’ strengths and weaknesses are. This will also create a bond between the 2 of you and build confidence in your pet.
This does not mean that your pets can’t be great companions. This will help with their current relationship and help them to establish a well balanced healthy pack with your guidance.
All too often a bonded pair will find themselves needing a new home. Rehoming one pet is a tall order let alone a pair, if your pets are individualized the chances for a safe, comfortable transition into a new home will be better for everyone involved.
Chastity Crowder, Cofounder and Fospice Mom

Taking Responsibility For Your Pet

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Today’s topic is a sensitive subject, but it is one that we deal with on a weekly basis here at Laber of Love. We have to say no many, many times to pets in need at Shelters because we don’t have the funds or the foster homes for all the pets that need us. We also have to say no to individuals who have lost a family member and have nowhere for that family member’s pet to go. Unfortunately, we have to say no to these pets and stay true to our mission, which is dedicated to rescuing pets that have found themselves in Shelters at the end of their lives. We say no to rehoming requests because the person has started a new job, had kids, is moving, and has many other reasons. It is heartbreaking every time we have to say no for the sake of the pet; I would love to live in a world where we can say yes every time. Or better yet, a world where we are no longer needed. However, we currently live in a reality in the pet world where Shelters are overwhelmed. Rescues are overwhelmed.
What can be done? Everyone needs to take responsibility for their pets. They need to spay and neuter; this will stop the endless cycle of unwanted litters, unwanted kittens and puppies. Spaying or neutering a dog or cat is much less expensive than trying to feed and provide Vet care for a litter. It is less stress on a dog or cat than going through pregnancy, birth, and raising their young. It is much less stress on the humans too.
People also need to understand a pet is for life. Not until they move, until they have kids, until they get a new job, until they get married, or until the pet gets too old. When you adopt a pet, you are taking responsibility for a life. Please consider that responsibility and plan for it. I understand that extreme circumstances happen, but everyday life should not get in the way of the responsibility of pet ownership.
Owners also need to plan for what will happen to their pets after they pass away. Will a family member be there to take care of the pet? Will a trusted friend? We have seen so many times where a pet is left alone with no options, and it is heartbreaking to see every time. There are many ways plans for pets can be made along with the other planning that needs to be done. Below is an article that gives more information on how to plan for your pet’s future without you in it.
Please help the Shelter and Rescue community. You can do your part in keeping your pets safe, healthy and with you. Spay and neuter. End this cycle that we are currently in. We are overwhelmed, we are tired, and we cry over your unwanted pets. We cry every time we have to say no to a pet in need, but there is only so much that we can do. We have to be careful to not take on more than we can handle ourselves. We need your help.
Nicole Laber, Cofounder and Fospice Mom

Caring For Deaf Pets

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Introduction
Caring for a pet with hearing loss can be a challenging yet rewarding experience. As pets age, like humans, they may lose their hearing. Sometimes, they may encounter a health problem or injury that causes hearing loss. This post will guide you through recognizing if your pet is deaf, understanding the needs of deaf pets, and offer practical tips and product recommendations to improve their quality of life.
Understanding Deafness in Pets
How does it occur?
Deafness in older pets can occur due to a variety of reasons including
● Normal age related changes (presbycusis)
● Ear infections, especially if long term
● Certain ear medications or ear cleaning products
● Excessive noise exposure
● Direct injuries, including aggressive ear cleaning
How can I tell if my pet is deaf?
Signs that may cause suspicion include
● Not responding to verbal commands
● Not adjusting their ears in response to sounds
● Being startled easily
● Not waking up until physically touched.
Discuss any concerns about your pet’s hearing with your veterinarian. However, to help the conversation, you may consider testing. There are two tests available that can further help you determine if your pet is deaf. The website http://www.PetAcoustics.com offers a home hearing test that you can complete. However, if you are unsure or need appropriate documentation (for example, in a young dog that’s not expected to be deaf), there is a medical test that can be performed by veterinary specialists at Ohio State.
Recognizing the signs of hearing loss early helps you adapt to better suit your pet’s needs.
Caring for a Deaf Pet
Home Environment
1. Safety First: Ensure your home is safe for a pet that cannot hear dangers approaching, such as cars or other animals. Secure fences and gates are a must if your pet spends time outdoors. If your pet got loose, it is especially important that they have a microchip because it may be difficult to recall them!
2. Keep Them Close: When outside, keep your deaf pet on a leash or in a secured area to prevent them from wandering off. Remember, they cannot hear danger signals or calls to return.
3. Use Visual Cues: Replace verbal commands with visual ones. Hand signals, flashlight signals, or even simple gestures can communicate with your deaf pet. The adage about teaching an old dog tricks is not true – they can learn! Pair a treat with the appropriate signal when your pet does the requested behavior; they are likely to begin associating the behaviors.
4. Vibrations: For larger dogs especially, creating vibrations on the floor by stomping can alert them to your presence. This can help to reduce their anxiety and prevent startling them.
5. Discuss Needs with Visitors and Family: Remember that startled pets may react out of fear. Care should be taken with children or others that may have health concerns that make bites especially difficult.
Product Recommendations
1. “Deaf Pet” Signs: Signs are a helpful clue to neighbors and others that verbal communication will not work for your pet. This can help them provide extra caution when in your driveway, for example.
2. Vibrating Collars: These can be used to get your pet’s attention or call them back to you without needing them to see you. Brands like PetSafe offer remote-controlled vibrating collars that are gentle but effective – these are NOT the same as “shock” collars.
3. Reflective Gear: For those times when you’re out with your pet in low-light conditions, reflective harnesses and leashes can help keep them visible and safe.
Connecting with Your Pet
Maintaining a physical connection through petting, grooming, and cuddles can reassure a deaf pet. They rely more on physical touch and smell to feel safe and connected.
Conclusion
Adapting to the needs of a deaf senior pet might seem daunting, but with the right tools and a bit of patience, you can help make their golden years comfortable and happy. Remember, the love and care you provide are what matter most to your pet. Take it from me – my cat, Olivia (16 years old!) has been deaf for years but is happy and comfortable!
Ken Brunson DVM, Board Member

The Facts About The Birds And The Bees

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Have you gotten a dog or cat and wondered when to get them spayed or neutered? Let’s look at the facts. Female dogs have their first heat around 6 months, and cats can get pregnant as early as 4 months. There is no exception to this rule. This also includes the law of attraction. Unaltered female animals attract unaltered male animals; it’s how nature works.
For those of us who think we are the exception to the rule, why chance it?
Why chance the possible medical complications that your pet could experience?
Why chance unforeseen behavioral issues?
Why chance an unwanted liter?
Why chance contributing to the overcrowded shelters?
Do you want your pet to live longer?
Do you want a well behaved pet?
Do you want to leave a legacy for the next generation of pet owners?
Do you want to provide the best option for a healthy life for your beloved pet?
There are facts to this point;
The number of pups born each day drastically overtakes the number of human babies that come into the world, with approximately 1.2 million pups to 360,000 babies. That’s roughly 3 times as many puppies as humans!
Intact (unneutered) male dogs represent 80% of the dogs presented to veterinary behaviorists for cases of dominance aggression.
Sterilizing a cat/dog reduces their urge to roam and decreases the risk of contracting diseases or getting hurt as they roam. Surveys indicate that as many as 85% of dogs hit by cars are unaltered. Intact male cats living outside have been shown to live on average less than two years.
The average lifespan of spayed and neutered cats and dogs is demonstrably longer than the lifespan of those not. A University of Georgia study, based on the medical records of more than 70,000 animal patients, found that the life expectancy of neutered male dogs was 13.8% longer and that of spayed female dogs was 26.3% longer. The average age of death of intact dogs was 7.9 years versus a significantly older 9.4 years for altered dogs.
Feel free to read the links attached above for a few more interesting facts that people might not consider when making the best decisions for their new forever pet.
As always, Laber of Love Pet Rescue is grateful for the opportunity to live out our mission with all of you. Thank you!
Chastity Crowder, Cofounder and Fospice Mom

When To Euthanize?

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The hardest decision I have to make for the pets in my care is when it is time to euthanize. But I feel that decision is the final, most loving gift that I can give them. I believe in euthanasia as a way to relieve my pets from further suffering. To allow them to be at peace and be able to rest without pain once again. I never make the decision lightly or without serious consideration. It is a decision that is never made without discussion with my husband and our Vet. If the pet is in Laber of Love, at least one more board member is involved as well.
In the end, my decision may not be the same as anyone else’s. That is what makes the decision to euthanize so difficult. There is no standard to tell you it is time, no definite checklist to follow to tell you it is time. Euthanasia is a very personal decision that each owner must make. It is a personal decision that is made for each pet. What is quality of life for one pet can be vastly different from another.
Euthanasia is a gift that we give our Laber of Love Pet Rescue pets as a final gift. It is a decision that we rely on our fosters to be heavily involved in since they live with and love their pets. It is a process that they are never alone with though, we are with them through every step. Our Vet partners are with us too.
If you are questioning if it is time to euthanize your beloved pet, keep in mind that your trusted Veterinary is there to help with your decision. Talk to family and trusted friends. But remember, the decision is yours. No one can make it for you; you know your pet the best. You know if they are still enjoying their life or suffering. The decision that you make will always be right if you make it with the best interest of your pet in mind.
This article provides more information on how and when to make this decision. Many other articles provide assessments or checklists to help determine your pet’s quality of life.
Nicole Laber, Cofounder and Fospice Mom

What Is Librela

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About 8 months ago we noticed that our 6 year old giant schnauzer was having issues moving after getting up from her sleep. This issue persisted, and she appeared stiff and in pain. Initially, we thought it was her hips that were causing the problem, but after a visit to the Vet and some X-rays, the doctor confirmed she was suffering from arthritis in her mid-back.
The doctor initially prescribed carprofen (Rimadyl) to help with her arthritis pain, but that medication came with possible side effects to her liver and kidneys. She would need blood testing every 6 months to monitor the function of those organs.
The Vet then suggested a new medication that would not require any type of follow up testing and was a once a month injection. That medication was Librela. We decided to give the Libreal a try, and our giant schnauzer had her first injection in December 2023. We were told that it may take 1-2 months to see any benefit from the medication. To our surprise, within 3 days she was acting like a new dog, and the stiffness she had been experiencing was gone. Since then we have been back for an injection each month, and she is doing very well on the medication.
If your dog is suffering from the effects of arthritis, it is definitely worth trying to help your dog live a happier and healthier life. While there are side effects to this medication, it’s been our experience that our giant schnauzer has not been affected by them.
As always, please consult with your Veterinarian to weigh the pros and cons of this medication.
Information from the FDA on Librela
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Librela (bedinvetmab injection) to control pain associated with osteoarthritis (OA) in dogs. Librela is the first monoclonal antibody (mAb) the FDA has approved for use in dogs. The FDA approved a mAb for cats on January 13, 2022, which was the first mAb new animal drug approved by the FDA for use in any animal species and the first treatment for the control of pain associated with OA in cats.
OA is the most common form of arthritis in dogs; it is estimated that it affects at least 25 percent of dogs at some point in their lifetime. OA is a degenerative and painful condition of the joints in which the normal cartilage cushion in the joints breaks down. Eventually, the bones in the joint rub against each other, causing pain, decreased joint movement, and sometimes the formation of bone spurs or other changes in and around the joint. OA continues to get worse over time; however, Librela can help control the pain associated with the condition. Bedinvetmab, the active ingredient in Librela, works by binding to and inhibiting the biological activity of a protein called canine nerve growth factor (NGF), which has been found to be elevated in dogs with OA and is involved in the regulation of pain. When bedinvetmab binds to NGF, it prevents the pain signal from reaching the brain.
Two field studies were conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of Librela – one in the United States and one in the European Union. Both studies enrolled client-owned dogs diagnosed with OA. Half the dogs received Librela and half the dogs received a sterile saline injection every 28 days for a total of three doses. Before treatment and on various days throughout the study, owners used the Canine Brief Pain Inventory (CBPI) assessment tool to measure the severity of the dog’s pain and the degree to which the pain interfered with the dog’s daily activities. The weight of evidence from the two field studies demonstrated that Librela is effective at controlling pain associated with OA in dogs when at least two doses are given 28 days apart.
Librela is only available by prescription from a licensed veterinarian because professional expertise is required to properly diagnose pain associated with OA in dogs, administer the injection, and monitor the safe use of the product, including treatment of any adverse reactions. Librela is given by subcutaneous injection once a month and dosed by weight range to target a minimum dose of 0.5 mg/kg.
The most common side effects seen in dogs treated with Librela included increased blood urea nitrogen (an indicator of kidney function), urinary tract infection, bacterial skin infection, skin irritation (dermatitis), rash (erythema) or pain at the injection site, vomiting (emesis), and weight loss (anorexia).
Veterinarians should advise owners about the possible adverse events and side effects before using the drug. The FDA encourages dog owners to work with their Veterinarians to report any adverse events or side effects potentially related to the use of any drug, including Librela.
Librela injectable solution is supplied as a sterile buffered solution of 5, 10, 15, 20, and 30 mg bedinvetmab/mL in single-use vials containing an extractable volume of 1 mL of clear solution.
Librela is sponsored by Zoetis, based in Kalamazoo, Michigan.
Rob Jameson, Board Vice President