Nurse’s Notes – Bulletin Blurbs for February 2010
February 7: At the start of this new year, here are some resolutions for you to make on behalf of your dog or cat!
- I will not fee my dog/cat table scraps. The higher fat content of “people food” can lead to vomiting and diarrhea. To break the habit of “begging,” put him/her in another room when you are eating.
- When I say “No.” I mean “No.” As with children, consistent consequences needed to curb bad behaviors, but remember to reward good behavior.
- I will take my pet for an annual checkup. Pets develop chronic illnesses just as their owners do. Routine shots and blood-work are important to diagnosing and treating illnesses such as kidney failure, diabetes and hyper-thyroidism. (Prevention, January 2009, pg. 128)
February 14: Nine easy swaps that save loads of calories! To lose ½ to 1 pound a week, aim to cut 250-500 calories a day by making a few of these swaps:
Swap a bottle of water for 1 can regular soda Save 100 cal.
Swap apple slices for small French fries Save 270 cal.
Swap regular hamburger for Big Mac Save 290 cal.
Swap ¾ c. high-fiber cereal for ½ c. granola Save 110 cal.
Swap 1 tsp. mustard for 1 Tbsp. mayo Save 100 cal.
Swap 2 slices whole grain bread for 1 lg. (4 ½”) bagel Save 269 cal.
Swap 2 c. air-popped popcorn for 1 sm. bag(1 oz.)pretzels Save 47 cal.
Swap 1 slice pizza + 1 ½ c. salad with 1 Tbs. low-fat dressing for 2 slices pizza Save 229 cal.
(Prevention Magazine, January 2010, pg. 72)
February 21: Upset by conflicts with others? Learn to speak your needs or distress directly, avoiding “you always” or “you never” accusations. Instead, use statements such as: “I feel ____ when you _____.” If conflicts are a source of distress for you, consider taking a class to help you become more assertive.
February 28: Hungry for the taste of fresh fruit in mid-winter? Reach for freeze-dried over heat dried fruits. Freeze drying helps retain vitamins and minerals that are some-times lost during the heated drying process.
