Pet Articles

A Survey Of Common Dog Health Problems

2012-01-30T05:51:00.000-08:00

Canine health can be just as demanding and difficult to maintain as human wellness. Keeping your canine companion in top form requires more than just knowing how to feed him and care for him: you need to understand the warning signs for the most common forms of dog illness.

Lyme Disease
Transmitted by ticks, this disease is common to humans and canines both. In canines, it is often difficult to spot it until some of the most overt signs surface. Initial symptoms include lack of energy and lack of appetite, but are rarely more specific. Lameness or difficulty moving is a much more common and definitive symptom.

Ear Infection
Many different situations can cause canine ear infections. Infections can arise due to ear mites, bacterial infection elsewhere, allergic reaction, or poor ear care. The signs of an ear infection are easy to recognize. A canine with an ear infection will constantly scratch at its ears. It may react negatively when touched near the ears, or shake its head in an attempt to relieve the discomfort.

Cancer
As more canines live longer, this dog illness becomes more prevalent. It now develops in 50% of canines over 10 years old. The symptoms are highly varied and depend heavily on what kind of cancer the animal is suffering from and other dog health problems they may have. In general, look for fatigue, restlessness, or general sudden change in mood. Also examine your pet for tumors, a telltale sign of cancer.

Bloat
This chronic condition can quickly become one of the more life threatening dog health problems. Signs of canine illness include disinterest in food and inability to settle comfortably. A distended stomach is also present, but may not be able to be detected outside of a vet's office.

Rabies
Spread by bites from other infected animals, rabies is easy to prevent: you can curtail all related dog health problems by simply vaccinating your canine companion in the first place. Otherwise, rabies can be potentially life threatening to you and to your canine.

Distemper
This dangerous disease can be fatal, especially in puppies or older canines. The first signs will be a running nose, accompanied by heavy vomiting and diarrhea. As the disease progresses, additional symptoms may include dehydration, breathing problems, refusal of food, and increasing weight loss. Neurological signs such as muscle twitching or seizures are vitally important telltale symptoms. Thickening of the footpads is difficult to observe without medical training, but is also a distinctive sign.

Heartworm
Although technically a parasite, heartworm is still a significant factor in dog illness. Heartworm itself is transmitted by a simple mosquito bite, which then places the parasite within the canine's body. Dog health problems begin six months or more after infection. Before this, the parasite is small and not yet having a major impact on the body. Signs include coughing and a lack of energy with predisposition to exhaustion. If left untreated, fainting, coughing of blood, and weight loss will eventually progress to become congestive heart failure and death.

These common dog health problems can all be serious for your pet's health and comfort. If you have even the slightest suspicion that one of them might be present, don't delay - take your pet to the vet quickly.

For more information about Dog health problems, please visit www.mycaninehealth.com

Keeping Your Dog Safe During The Holidays

2012-01-25T05:49:00.000-08:00

With the holidays here, we are all in the mood for some festivities. We plan parties and cook for celebrations, but what do our pups do? They are still the same clever, curious rascal they ever were. Something that the holiday season does bring some puppy hazards. Everyone wants to enjoy the holidays without a single hiccup, so make sure that you make your home holiday safe for dogs.

Seasonal decorations

The holidays bring about a variety of color and light that make the atmosphere look quite magnificent. But, beware of nosy pups with mischief on the mind. Power cords can be very dangerous for a pup that likes to chew. Make sure they are hidden out of reach so no one gets hurt. Besides lighting, we often decorate our homes with pretty plants such as miseltoe, poinsettia, and holly. Unfortunately, all these plants are actually very toxic- especially for dogs. Consider going with a synthetic likeness that looks just as pretty (and you can use it again next year- save some $$). Besides the house decorations, presents often get decorated, too.
Wrapping paper is fun- for both man and dog, but we don't usually eat it. A pup may find it quite tasty, but will likely just end up with a belly-ache.

Hot dog

Candles make the house look and smell nice, but there is a bit of a hazard to this. A happy tail or a nosy snout can knock a candle over and burn your pup or catch something on fire. If you have candles, keep them up high and never leave the home without making sure they're out. Another concern is the fireplace. Those flickering flames can intrigue a curious pup, so make sure you use a fireplace protector or screen to keep any noses from being singed.

Time for eats!

The festivities and food are going to be almost every dog's weakness. Honestly, who can resist a tasty piece of what's cooking? Items on the table top left unattended can make a likely target for an eagar pup, so keep things out of reach- and no paws on the table. Unfortunately, dogs aren't always the culprit, sometimes they're just the victim of some sneaky hands that tossed them a spoonful off their plate. Make sure that everyone knows not to feed the pup, and if you don't want to take any chances, put your pup somewhere where they won't be tempted. Don't forget to give them their own snacks and toys to enjoy.

The table top isn't the only place a sneaky snout might wander. After all is cooked and eaten, there's likely to be a few leftovers. And where do some leftovers end up? After scraping plates clean, we often end up with some scraps in the garbage can. So make sure to bag it and toss it before anyone gets any ideas.

Now, table scraps might not sound to concerning for some folks, but keep in mind that there are several dinner items that can make a pup a little- or even extremely sick.

Raisins and grapes are notorious for upsetting a pup's belly and often make it to a countertop fruit ornamentation basket. Onions add flavor to a meal, but they aren't any better for a pup. And chocolate is one of the worst, but possibly the most popular for the season. Make sure and keep any and all of these foods out of your pup's reach, and inform visitors not to feed them these specific things.

Along that topic comes the "merry" part of the holidays. We should all eat, drink, and be merry, but pups shouldn't be doing any drinking (even if they aren't driving). Beer and other alcoholic beverages are dangerous to pups bodies. They don't experience it the way we do, and organs such as their liver and kidneys can be damaged very easily by alcohol.

Holidays are supposed to be fun, and you can make them as fun as you want. Just be sure that you keep your pup safe and out of harm's way so you can both enjoy the season festivities.

"Porch Potty - A Dog Owner's Dream Come True, http://porchpotty.com"

How to Stop Your Puppy Chewing Problem

2011-12-20T21:00:00.000-08:00

Learning how to stop your puppy from chewing can become a difficult chore that will leave you frustrated, especially when they get ahold of your favorite pair of shoes, or they are constantly chewing on you.

If you want to stop your puppy from chewing, there are a few things that you need to understand about them before you just blame them for their behavior.

To begin with, chewing is a natural part of being a puppy. Rather than trying to stop them from this natural behavior, you should work towards redirecting the problem to another source. Get them chew toys and a bone thatthey are allowed to gnaw on to their hearts content.

It is much easier to redirect a problem than to try and stop it completely, especially when the problem is more of a human problem than a puppy one.

Another thing to consider is that certain behaviors tend to instigate chewing, especially when they are chewing on you. This can lead to dog aggression problems later on, so you need to nip it in the bud now rather than putting it off.

But, again, this is a human problem as much as a puppy problem. In order to stop your pupply from chewing on you, you need to pay attention to what you do that instigate it.

Certain sudden movements, or aggressive behavior towards your puppy (even in play) will push them into chewing. Also, when you are playing, if they start chewing on you, stop the activity.

Dogs can't distinguish between play time and not play time. Although they love to play, the habits that they will pick up then will transfer to other times.

You should never allow your dog to play aggressively and chewing is one of the easiest bad habits to break.

When they start chewing, redirect them to one of their play toys, and separate yourself from them.

If the chewing problem persists, you may need to keep them in a kennel until they learn to behave. Crate training can take some time, but is very beneficial in stopping a wide variety of puppy problems, including them wanting to chew on you.

Follow these tips to stop your puppy from chewing, and get them under control. It doesn't take much, but by paying attention to your behavior and redirecting their behavior to an appropriate toy will help you to get things under control.

How To Keep Your Dog Cool In The Summer

2011-12-17T20:58:00.000-08:00

Summer is a time for fun - swimming, picnics, baseball games, and playing with your dog in your newly mowed lawn. The only downside to summer is the heat! For us humans it's easy to keep a tall glass of lemonade around or crank the air conditioning up to keep us cool during these months.

But our pets don't often have it so easy. It can be miserable for your dog to be stuck in the heat for long periods of time with no way to keep cool. While it's obviously preferable to keep your best friend indoors when the weather gets hot, sometimes it's not practical.

If you absolutely have to keep your dog outside during these hot months, then there are a few simple things you can do to keep your dog safe and cool. You DON'T want to forget these tips - they are absolutely essential.

First off, make sure your dog has plenty of shade. You can build a simple pavilion out of scrap wood and a tarp if there is no other shade source. Shade can make a big difference!

Also, make sure your dog has lots of cool water. They make great water bowls now that can be hooked up to a hose and that continually refills the bowl when the water level drops below a certain point. It's great because your dog will never run out of cool water!

Another super way to keep your dog cool is to give him access to a kiddie pool filled with water, but this is only for dogs that like the water and are able to swim. Remember: safety first! Don't do this if you have a small, short-legged dog that could drown in the pool.

Finally, and one of the best ways to keep your pet cool during the summer, you can get your dog a cooling dog bed (also known as a dog cooling mat).

The cooling dog bed (or dog cooling mat) is a great way to make sure your dog stays comfortable in that blistering summer heat. And if you are looking for a cheap dog bed, a cooling dog bed or dog cooling mat usually don't cost too much and works great besides that. They require NO electricity but simply work by dispersing the water inside the dog cooling mat when they lay down, providing a cool, dry place to sleep. They're made out of a tough nylon material as well so that claws won't puncture when the dogwalks across them. Cooling dog beds are a great way to keep your favorite pet from suffering in the hot summer sun. These dog cooling mats are also great for dogs that have just gotten back from playing outside or taking a doggie walk.

Remember to always follow these tips when your dog is outside in the summer. In the end however, the best way to keep your dog cool is to keep him indoors when the heat is too much!

Learn more about cooling dog beds at PetProductsForYou.com. You'll discover many different types of dog cooling mats and cooling dog beds for your pet.

You Are The Top Dog: Letting Your Wolf Dog Know You Are The Alpha

2011-11-11T01:52:00.000-08:00

By Edye Marin, Breeder for Northern California’s Wolf Hybrid Ranch

Your Wolf Hybrid Dog needs to know that you are the leader of its pack, thus giving it the proper perspective of its place and yours in the world.

You may find this list of rules helpful to ensure your dog understands your mutual places.

If you own a wolf hybrid, you should consider heeding these rules. Canines need to have a clear understanding of their place in the pack. A wolfdog lacking that insight will not be happy or fulfilled. We are honored to share our insights from years of breeding and training at http://californiawolves.com/resources

Some wolfdog behaviors might not be what they seem. For example separation anxiety may seem like your wolf dog is destructive when you leave the house. When in reality it is nervous being left home alone. Wolves are social animals which live in packs, thus they do not do well being left alone for extended periods of time.

The primary way to communicate with your wolf dog that you are its pack leader is to take it for a walk. Now, don’t consider the typical walk most humans take with their dog, where the dog is actually taking the human for a walk. You are going on a pack walk where the wolf is made to heel beside or behind you. This is most important for all dogs, as in a canine's mind, the pack leader will always lead the way. A dog must not be allowed to sniff or eliminate anytime it wishes, but when you allow it. The dog should be concentrating on following you - the human pack leader. This pack type walk should be done daily. Not only will this release built up energy, but it will satisfy the dog's instinct to migrate, which all dogs possess. Dog's who have excess energy bottled up inside them and who do not have their migration instinct met will develop various instability issues that most people mistake for being breed traits.

All pack leaders eat first. When you give your wolfdog its food, eat a small snack first while it is watching, lay the snack near the wolf’s food so that it thinks you are eating out of its bowl. Remember, the leader always eats first. As it is eating push its face out of the food bowl and mix the food with your hand. That lets it know the food is yours but you are done and it can have the rest. It also leaves your scent on the food, making it yours.

Don’t feed table scraps to the wolves during a meal, as tempting as it may be. If there are leftovers you want to give it, put them in its bowl when you are through eating and ready to leave the table. That way the alphas have eaten first and it eats last.

Feedings must be at a scheduled time, as you determine when those in the pack eat.

You should not let the dog go through any doorway first. The leader of the pack always goes first. If the dog does not stay behind the humans, the dog must be told to "stay" and given the command to "come" after all humans have passed through. If the dog is allowed to go first it is then in the place of pack leader.

You should never go to the dog, it should always come to you.

A basic obedience command such as “Sit” or “Come” should be given before pleasurable interaction with the dog. The children should give the dogs commands at least once a day and reward with a treat when the command is followed. This builds a child’s position as the pack leader as well. A simple “Sit” will do. No treat should be awarded if the dog does not follow the command. Show your dog it does not get anything for free. Its food, water, treats, even praise/love have to be earned by doing something. Even something as little as sit or come. Make sure the dog takes the treat from your hands gently. Do not ever allow the dog to snatch the treat from your hand.

You should not lay on the floor to watch TV when the dog is around and no one should roll around the floor playing with the wolfdogs, as a human should never put himself in an equal or lesser height position than the wolf.

You are the one who greets newcomers first, your wolf-hybrid is the last who gets attention (the pack leader is the one who greets newcomers and lets the rest know when it is safe to greet the newcomer)

If your wolfdog is laying in your path, do not walk around the wolf, make it move.

During the time you are establishing your higher pack position, no hugs should be given to the dog by you, as a dominant dog may consider this a challenge of power.

If you establish eye contact with the wolfdog, the wolf must avert its gaze first. If the human averts first, the wolf will feel like it has a higher power position. Tell the children not to have staring contest with the wolf, as if they avert or blink first, it will only reinforce, in the wolfdog’s mind, that it is pack leader.

Ideally, wolfdogs should not sleep in your bed. In the wolf world, the most comfortable place to sleep is reserved for the higher members of the pack. If a wolfdog is allowed to sleep on the bed, the dog must be invited up and not be allowed to push the humans out of their way. Making them sleep at the foot of the bed rather than, for example, on your pillow, is best. The wolf-hybrid should never be invited to get on the bed before the human.

Wolfdogs must never be allowed to mouth or bite anyone at any time, including in play.

Any attention given to the wolfdog, including petting should be given when the human decides attention is to be given (absolutely no petting when the wolf nudges or paws you or your hand. This would be letting the dog decide and reinforcing, in his mind, that he is higher on the scale than the human.)

You, not the wolf, must start and finish all games of fetch or play with toys.

Wolfdogs should not be allowed to lie on your furniture, except by invitation of the leader of the pack who always gets the most comfortable spot. Dogs belong on the floor. If you do decide to allow your dog on the furniture, you must be the one who decides when it is allowed up and you must be the one who decides when it is to get off, by inviting it up and telling it to get down.

No tug-of-war, as this is a game of power and you may lose the game giving the wolf a reinforcement (in its mind) of pack leader (not all trainers agree on this).

Wolves need to be taught a “Drop it” or release command. Any objects the wolfdog has in its possession should be able to be taken away by all humans.

Wolves own no possessions, everything belongs to you. They are all on "loan" from the human family. You should be able to handle or remove any item at all times from the wolfdog with no problems from the animal. Even if you are taking a chicken bone out of the wolfdog's mouth.

Wolfdogs should not be allowed to pull on the leash. When they do this they are leading the way and it is your job to lead the way and show that you are higher up in the pack order. (In the wild, the leader of the pack always leads the way; the pack leader leads the hunt.)

When you put its food dish down, it must wait until you give the "OK" to eat. Place its food on the ground and tell it to wait. If it darts at the food, block it with your body. You can point at it and tell it, "No, Wait" They read each other’s energy by reading body language, and your dog can read yours. Yes, your dog can read your emotions. So stand tall and think "Big" and stay confident. Do not be nervous, your wolfdog will sense this and assume you are weak. It is this weakness that triggers a wolf to try and take over (for the good of the pack, the pack needs a strong leader). Give the wolf-hybrid a previously taught command before giving them their food. If a wolfdog does not follow the command (i.e. to sit), he does not eat. When he does respond to the command, you invite him to eat his food.
Wolfdogs should never be left unsupervised with children or anyone who cannot maintain leadership over the dog. Sometimes family members also need to be trained.

Last but certainly not least... when you are around your wolfdog avoid emotions such as fear, anxiety, harshness or nervousness. Your wolf can sense these emotions and will see you as weak. This will escalate your problem as your wolf feels an even stronger need to be your leader. Think Big and Powerful and be calm, assertive, and consistent. Remember, there is no hiding your emotions from your wolfdog. They can in a sense, read our minds, in reading our body language. Picture yourself, in your own mind as big, powerful and very sure of yourself. Pull your shoulders back and stand up straight. This is your number one resource when it comes to communicating with your wolfdog. Your wolf-hybrid will be happy and secure knowing he has a strong pack leader to care for him or her.

For more information, visit http://www.californiawolves.com. You can reach Edye Marin at Northern California Wolf Ranch at 530-990-2308 or P.O. Box 93, Etna, CA 96027

Amazing Functions Of Cat Collars

2011-11-08T02:10:00.000-08:00

Most cat owners fail to realize the many additional benefits cat collars provide. First and foremost they are use for identification purposes and aesthetic value, however they can also be used as a resource to improve the health and behavior of your cat too. Choosing and purchasing a collar for your feline friend can be one of the kindest things you can do for your cat.

There are two types of collar that improve safety for your cat; these are called break-away and reflective. Break-away collars are used if you're the collar gets stuck on something, such as a branch. If this happens then the collar simply breaks when enough force is applied. This helps to prevent neck injuries or asphyxiation of your cat. To improve the safety of your cat, you can use two types of collars, break-away and reflective. Reflective collars are used to reflect streetlights and car lights at night. Unfortunately thousands of cats are hit and killed by cars every single year. A reflective collar makes your cat that much more visible to motorists, which could potentially save its life.

If you have a pet kitten or cat you will be well aware of the flea problems they often bring home. Cats can catch fleas from other animals, from the ground or even from your own home if your cat has had a previous infestation. Fleas are amazingly tolerant animals, and their eggs can remain in furniture or the carpet for weeks. Fleas can have serious health affects on your pet. An untreated flea infestation can cause serious skin conditions for your cat, but also fleas transmit a tapeworm that can infect your cat's digestive system.

This is where collars once again come in useful as a weapon against fleas. Flea collars emit a toxic substance that kills any fleas that have taking up residence in your pets fur. This type of collar is an excellent defense, however it should be used in addition to other methods when ridding your pet of fleas. If you do decide to get a flea collar then it is important to research which brands are safe for your pet. Your vet will recommend a safe and effective flea collar for your cat.
Finally collars can be used to alter the negative behaviors in your pet. Erratic or aggressive behavior can be a sign of stress or fear in your cat. Great methods to relax your cat are pheromone collars. These collars make your cat feel calm and at ease. Again you should research carefully which collar is the most suitable for your pet.

Cat Urination Behavior

2011-11-03T02:07:00.000-07:00

Most people who are talking about or inquiring about cat urination behavior are having some undesirable issues at home. No one really discusses this when their kitty is using the litter box as they should. It's when they start doing their business right outside the litter box, on the couch or on your laundry in the bottom of the closet that it becomes a concern.

Believe it or not, if you are troubled with house-soiling, you are certainly not alone. This is the most common behavioral problem that cat owners have to deal with. Interestingly, many people think that it's for revenge. Well, contrary to popular belief, it's not all about you! It could be completely coincidental that your cat urinated on the carpet at the same time you decided to go away for a few days. Then again, maybe the neighbor you had watching him forgot to give him his treats!

In all truthfulness, experts say that cats do not have cognitive abilities to calculate such revenge. It's also important to understand that your cat would have to think that relieving himself is a negative act if revenge was the case when really, it's only their human owners who view these acts this way.

Litter Box Issues

It is quite common for cats to avoid their litter box for one reason or another. Their behavior could be the result of:

• Changing Litter - Some litter irritates certain cats. This could be due to texture or even going from non-scented to scented. Some even make an unpleasant dust cloud that your cat may not care for.

• Dirty - Would you want to step over your own soiled areas to relieve yourself? Well, neither does your cat. Sometimes even felines who were fine with their litter box being cleaned once a day get a little more fussy as they age and need it cleaned more often.

• Location - Have you moved the litter box? If not, have you moved something close to it like suitcases, sporting equipment, etc.? Cats can be very sensitive to changes in their surroundings.

Medical Issues

Many people get so caught up in thinking that their cat is being vindictive that they fail to realize that there could be health concerns. Urinary tract infections are often to blame which can cause frequent urination. In this case, it's often hard for the cat to get to the litter box in time.
Also, liver, thyroid and kidney diseases, intestinal tract tumors or parasites and rectum or colon inflammation can be to blame as well. It's also important to understand that as cats get older, age-related issues like muscular disease, disorders of the nervous system and arthritis can all make getting in and out of the litter box a challenge.

Additional Cat

Have you brought in another cat or could another cat you already have be getting old and a little bossier? Even a sweet feline who has always shared her litter box may be scared to use it if her older brother is having some territorial issues. Quite often, adding a second litter box in a different location will often help with this cat urination behavior.

To learn more about cat urination problems and solutions, go to http://www.catbehaviorsolutions.com/cat-urination.html. Visit http://www.catbehaviorsolutions.com for more topics and tips about cat behaviors including scratching, biting, vocalizing and more.

Is Your Dog Too Bored to Behave?

2011-10-30T02:01:00.000-07:00

In our modern world it seems as though the media is full to capacity with dog owners wanting to find the answers to cure their pet's behaviour. Everybody appears to live within the confined boundaries of their family's busy and hectic life. Breakfast is rushed, the commute, the school run, shopping trips, social activities and yet more and more households still wish to own a trusted companion.

When people think of living their perfect lifestyle, there is always the picture in their minds of the family group, made complete by the adorable dog sitting by their side.

Problems occur today when the puppy matures into an adult dog. So often once a dog has been house trained, people assume the animal will be capable of staying alone for a few hours every day. Here is where the difference between modern life in today's world stands in comparison with the households of yesteryear. Just a few years ago the average house had someone at home for most of the time and the family dog was rarely left unattended.

However there is nothing wrong with today's family household owning a dog, but judging by the amount of searches made daily on the internet for obedience training, then obviously some changes have to take place in order to satisfy your pet's needs.

The problems with what the owners are classifying as disobedient stems from pure boredom on the dog's behalf. Try to imagine being stuck indoors, restless wanting to exercise and run but cannot. Suddenly anything that is close at hand, pillows, rugs, shoes provide a challenge, something that they could chew and play with. If left indoors for too long then accidental puddles will occur, not for one to blame the dog for. But there are many ways that you can help your dog to settle into a new routine, which would still include time spent alone at home.

It is vitally important that you exercise your dog before you leave him alone and this has the added benefit that you can gain an extra fitness routine. Take a look around your local pet store, there are many toys available today that are designed for dogs to enjoy when you leave the house. Several items resemble balls and objects that contain treats within; the dog is then occupied trying to work out how to release the snack.

After working on these types of projects it is quite natural for the dog to nap afterwards. If you have reason to believe that your dog cannot wait to relieve itself before you return, then training him to use paper or puppy pads left by the door should alleviate this problem.

In our busy occupied lives it is so easy to actually forget the dog is there when you are at home. How often have you spent time working at the computer or watching television, completely unaware that your dog is curled up in some corner of the house feeling left out of the family group. Try to include your dog in as many household activities as possible. Call him and stroke his head as you relax after work.

Ensure that you allow plenty of time for an evening walk, dogs do like routine and knowing that following a meal he can then look forward to a game in the park. Pets enjoy regularity, try to keep each day to the same schedule for him and you will notice how much calmer your dog will be.

For more information, check out http://k9schooltime.blogspot.com/

Pet Waste At Dog Parks Can Make Your Pet Sick

2011-10-27T05:33:00.000-07:00

Visiting a dog park or other community area is a great way to give your pet the exercise and socialization she needs to be happy and healthy. Unfortunately these places can become contaminated with deadly microorganisms found in dog waste and other bodily fluids. These are the facts about 4 common diseases spread in contaminated pet feces.

Parvovirus

Background: Parvovirus appeared in the 1970s. Since then it has spread around the globe and is considered ubiquitous (potentially everywhere) in the environment. This virus’s rapid proliferation was due in part to its hardy nature. Parvo is often fatal so any dog that has symptoms that suggest infection should receive immediate medical care.

Symptoms: Rapid dehydration, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, high or low temperature, lethargy and/or muscle weakness, loss of appetite, pale mucous membranes in mouth. Infected animals become sick 3 to 7 days after exposure.

How It Spreads: Parvovirus is primarily spread through infected dog feces so be careful to avoid it. However other bodily fluids including urine, saliva and vomit can also spread Parvovirus. Once this pathogen gets into soil it can remain active for months and freezing temperatures don’t kill it. Parvovirus survives best in shady, cool, moist areas so the dirt near things like trees, bushes or playground equipment are favored spots for this virus.

Prevention And Treatment: Puppies receive their initial vaccination at 6 to 8 weeks of age followed by a booster shot a few weeks later. Adult dogs receive a yearly booster shot. Parvovirus can be killed with bleach on nonporous surfaces like plastic, metal or cement however it is not possible to completely disinfect porous surfaces like soil. If infection occurs veterinarians can offer supportive care until the body is strong enough to mount a successful response to clear the virus.

Roundworms

Background: Roundworms are the most common worm parasite that infects dogs. Adult Roundworms live in the stomach and intestines of a host and shed their eggs into the environment through the host’s feces. These parasites are several inches long and look like thin, white or light brown worms in feces. Nearly all dogs will become infected with Roundworms during the course of their lives. Infestation in puppies can lead to serious illness or even death. Dogs older than 6 months develop a natural resistance to this parasite and usually don’t suffer from severe infestations or show symptoms of infection. Roundworms can infect humans and cause serious illness in children.

Symptoms: Diarrhea, vomiting, lethargy, stunted growth, dull coat and hair loss.

How It Spreads: Roundworm eggs are shed into the environment through the host’s feces and become infectious approximately 3 to 4 weeks later. These eggs have a tough outer shell and can remain active in dirt or sand for years. If your dog or child ingests contaminated soil or sand infection can occur. In addition if your dog eats a dead animal that is infected with Roundworms it can become infected. These parasites can also be spread to puppies before they are born or through their mother’s milk during nursing.

Prevention And Treatment: There is no known way to prevent Roundworm infection. Veterinarians can prescribe worming medicine that treats Roundworm in puppies and adult dogs.

Whipworms

Background: Whipworm is a common species of parasitic worm that infects dogs. They are extremely small and difficult to detect in the feces of infected dogs. Whipworms burrow into the walls of the large intestine and appendix, suck blood and lay eggs that are shed in the dog’s feces.

Symptoms: Mild infection may not produce symptoms but severe infection can cause abdominal pain, bloody diarrhea and in rare cases death. Symptoms may not begin for a month or more after exposure.

How It Spreads: The only way to become infected with whipworms is to ingest a Whipworm egg. Unfortunately this is very easy for your pet to do. A dog can become infected if it eats contaminated feces, soil or grass. In addition if a dog rolls in contaminated soil it can become infected when it cleans it’s fur and ingests the eggs. Whipworm eggs have a thick outer shell that protects the core and allows them to survive for years in the environment. These eggs are best adapted to cool, moist, well shaded soil and they can survive freezing temperatures. Sun and heat can destroy Whipworm eggs by drying them out.

Prevention And Treatment: Like Roundworm there is no known way to prevent infection with Whipworms. Veterinarians can prescribe worming medicine for puppies and adult dogs.

Campylobacteriosis

Background: Campylobacteriosis is a common gastrointestinal disease caused by bacterial infection. Up to half of all dogs carry the bacterium that causes Campylobacteriosis but few show any symptoms. This disease is most dangerous in puppies younger than 6 months of age and adult dogs with compromised immune systems. Occasionally this disease is mistaken for Parvo because the symptoms can be similar. However unlike Parvo most cases of Campylobacteriosis run their course in 1 to 3 weeks and this disease is rarely fatal if prompt medical care is administered. Humans are susceptible to this infection so care must be taken around dog waste.
Symptoms: Mild to severe diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, fever, lethargy, lack of appetite. Symptoms start within 48 hours of exposure.

How It Spreads: Campylobacter is not a hardy germ. It can only survive for a few days at room temperature and can’t efficiently reproduce unless it’s inside a digestive tract. Unfortunately exposure to less than a thousand Campylobacter can trigger illness. At a park the major mode of transmission for this bacterium is fresh dog waste. Campylobacter can also spread through infected food or water.

Prevention And Treatment: Antibiotics can treat this disease. A veterinarian may provide other supportive care as needed.

When you visit a dog park or other community area the number one way to protect your pet is to keep her away from strange dog feces. If your community doesn’t clean up dog waste consider having a pet waste removal company do the work. Most cities have companies that offer this service. If you suspect that your pet has become sick with any of these diseases take your dog to a veterinarian immediately. Clean or dispose of any old toys, bones and bedding to reduce the chance of reinfection and to protect other healthy pets. Exercise and socialization are important for your pet’s health and well being. So watch out for landmines and keep your trips safe and fun!

Schooling Dogs: An Effective & Useful Guide To Your Dog’s Health

2011-10-25T01:56:00.000-07:00

If you want to maintain your dogs overall health, then in that case Schooling Dogs guide can be the best possible alternative. It can be the ideal solution if you want to train your dog in the most appropriate manner according to your liking. With the help from Schooling Dogs training manual, you can easily train your dog the most useful manners and etiquettes. In this way, your dog will certainly behave quite adequately as per your training. This website has a very unique compilation of useful videos, tips and other well written articles that can be of great help to pet owners.

How to train your dogs?

This question can be easily answered with useful guidance offered by Schooling Dogs. On the other hand, you can also train and look after the puppies in the most thorough manner with the advices and other tips that are written in Schooling Dogs guide. Users can easily have immediate access to secrets to dog training, do's and don'ts, eBooks, well written articles, blogs and several other details that can be of massive help while training your pet. Learn how to train dogs in the most immaculate technique with useful suggestions and other tips provided by Schooling Dogs guide.Your dog will certainly behave and respond appropriately and decently in front of your guests as per your liking. Users can have immediate access to unique dog behavior courses through this training manual. You can easily get to know about the dog's behavior through Schooling Dogs guide.

Not just that, extraordinarily for this avenue - the information accessible is absolutely dependable. Certainly, that's correct - this book is the latest kettle of fish. It is written by an experienced dog instructor, you can unwind in the details that all the suggestions and steps offered are tried and thoroughly examined.How to train your dogs? There's a rather noteworthy collection of facts written in this guide and all your queries shall be easily answered. However, it is not just the difficulty behaviors that are included: the ebook starts with new-owner direction.

Learn how to train dogs details can be easily acquired by visiting the site http://www.schoolingdogs.com/. Alternatively, if you want to know about dog behavior courses, then you can get the information on Global Dog Obedience Training Center, 3894 Roger Street, Oyster River, BC V9W 5N0, CANADA.

October Is Adopt-A-Shelter-Dog Month

2011-10-23T01:58:00.000-07:00

There are tons of animals housed in shelters all around the country that all need a suitable home. Adopt-a-pet month begins in October and helps bring attention to their plight. Many people are relinquishing their pets for one reason or another, and there are not enough adoptions to keep up. Approximately half will end up being euthanized.

People who are looking for a dog can certainly help. Instead of buying a dog from breeder, you should consider adopting one instead. You will save a lot of money considering all dogs from a shelter have already been spayed or neutered so you will not have to pay a vet more money to do it. Most of them have already received their vaccination shots too and many have even been trained.

Although adopting dogs will help out a lot, there are certain things you need to consider before you go down to a shelter to get one. Most importantly, you will need to narrow down your choice of dog breeds. There are plenty to choose from and they all have their own personalities. Make sure the dog you choose will be compatible with your lifestyle.

Most people who adopt a shelter dog want to get a cute puppy. However, getting an older dog may be a better idea for some. You will not have to go through all the trouble of house-training them most importantly. They will likely already be comfortable being around people too.
Before you bring home a dog during adopt-a-shelter-dog month, it is important for you to prepare its new environment. You should already have all of the equipment you need such as bedding, collars, leashes, and food bowls.

It is also important to note that your new canine friend will need time to adjust to his or her new environment. You can make things much easier by spending time with your new dog instead of leaving him or her home alone all day while you are at work. If you cannot schedule any time off, then you may want to get a dog on a Friday so you can spend time with it over the weekend.
Many pet owners forgo getting insurance for their pets. With your child, you will want to have insurance in case something bad happens. It should be the same for your pet since you will never know when it may come down with a major illness. You would save a lot of money if insurance took care of the expenses so you would not have to pay them out of pocket.

Murray Hill Vet is the place to bring your dogs or cats when you are in need of a vet. They also offer pet boarding, show standard grooming services, convenient on-line pharmacy, and pet adoption program. Check out http://www.murrayhillvethospital.com/for more info.

Cat Vocalization – What Are They Really Saying?

2011-10-22T02:04:00.000-07:00

Some say that if humans could understand cat vocalization, they may either be a little more scared or intrigued by their feline friends. After all, does anyone really know what they're thinking as they sit there watching you sleep? They really do have quite a large vocabulary but who knows if they are telling you off, telling you that they love you or letting you know that the vacuum sucked up their favorite toy?

Expert suggests that cats are so complex that they communicate with you, other felines and other animals in very unique ways. Of course, in addition to their vocalization skills, they also communicate through a broad range of body postures as well. These are often easier to interpret than their meows are.

Purring

Nearly everyone who has had the privilege of hearing a cat purr knows that it generally translates to something good. However, contrary to what you may have been taught to believe, purrs are not always positive. This sounds that warms your heart is made when the feline breathes in and out with quick pauses occurring between breaths. The purr is created by a separation in the vocal folds caused by built up pressure. It is actually a very complex process and you should feel special if a cat directs this type of communication in your direction.
Although purring is typically perceived as a sign of happiness or contentment, cats in pain will often purr when they are stressed as well, an act that remains a mystery.

Hissing

It's no secret that hissing is a warning that you should take seriously; cat bites are not fun to deal with. (If you want to correct your cat's biting behavior, here's an excellent resource: http://catbehaviorsolutions.com/Ebook/index.html)

There are different variations of hisses as well. If you startle or upset a cat, you will often be faced with a mouth open hiss. This is common if you invade their space.

If a cat is extremely distraught or fearful, a scream is often released along with the hiss. When you hear cats fighting outside and low-pitched angry growls are present, this is another form of hiss.

Meow

Now for the most confusing vocalization of them all; the meow! No one will ever know what every meow means but if you are really in tune with your feline friend, you'll begin to notice a pattern which will help you understand their needs.

Cats don't have only one generic meow. If you pay attention, you will discover that your cat will make a different sound for food, attention, boredom, if he wants outside, etc. Cats are highly intelligent creatures; they are trying to teach you what they want if you are observant. Just as humans train dogs through consistent repetition, cats train humans with their communication…not all people pick up on their daily lessons though.

It is also interesting to note that cats rarely meow to one another; meows are reserved for their human companions! If you take the time to really get to know your cat, you will learn what exactly they are asking for, when they're happy and when they are just plain frustrated.

When You Get Your New Wolf-Hybrid Puppy

2011-10-21T01:50:00.000-07:00

By Edye Marin, Northern California Wolf Hybrid Ranch Breeder

Before you pick up your pup examine your house and yard. Check for poisonous plants and shrubs. (like Oleander - a complete list can be found at http://www.californiawolves.com/resources ) Also check your perimeter fence for holes where your pup could escape. If there is an opening the puppy’s head would fit through, they can escape. Your wolf pup will probably want to dig, as most pups. You can either set aside an area where they are allowed to dig or stay with them when they are outside and teach them not to dig. I encourage all new wolf hybrid owners to give their wolf a place to dig, as it is innate in their nature. Part of the reason they dig is to get to cooler dirt when they are hot. I have always kept either a kiddy pool or a large water trough for them to get into and cool off.

Next check your house and look for wires or other items they can chew. Either remove them or cover them. We have lost hundreds of dollars worth of satellite cable and hoses to wolf pups raised near the house, plus phone chargers and speakers where the wires were in their reach.

In the best case scenario you would come to pick up your pup here at the ranch. When you do it is important that you let us hand him/her to the new primary care giver/alpha of your puppy. That gives them the understanding of ownership passing to the new owner. The new owner should allow the pup to lick their face, if the puppy desires, as this indicates it sees you as the alpha. It is best if two people come to pick up the young cub so that one can drive and the other hold the pup on your lap and reassure it on the way to its new home. The first car ride is usually a scary experience for young pups. Also bring and old towel or puppy pad (large size) to protect your lap as they frequently get car sick on their first ride. It helps if you don’t allow them to look out the window as the moving scenery can accelerate the onset of car sickness.

Home at last. You have arrived in territory that is familiar and comfortable for you - not your wolfdog. Your puppy however has left his or her siblings, mom, and people he or she knows. They are now in a totally unfamiliar environment. That’s why it is not only important but necessary to have a few days, or possibly a week, to spend with your puppy. This is the time they bond with you and learn to trust you. In this time your wolfdog learns to see you as its provider and pack leader. You will be given, at the time of pick up, a stuffed toy with the scent of the litter and mom on it. Give this to them when they get fussy or at nap time so they won’t feel so lost and alone. This will also help with “separation anxiety”. This is a condition where the separation causes them to feel sick enough to stop eating or to get diarrhea. If they get diarrhea, cook them some hamburger and rice and when that cools mix mashed banana in it. Feed the rice, hamburger, banana mix for 2 days and then gradually start mixing in their dry food.

Feeding: Your puppy should be fed a quality puppy food that does not contain corn, wheat, or soy and has a minimum of 28% protein to start. Later, your wolf-hybrid will need more protein. I start them on Kirkland puppy chow and, finances permitting, I switch them over gradually to Evo which has 42% protein. Otherwise they can stay on the puppy chow and supplement with raw meat and bones to chew. Do not give them milk, unless you like cleaning up runny poop. Wolves are lactose intolerant. For the first week I would recommend feeding them three times (3X) per day, as much as they can eat. Then put the food up and wait for the next mealtime. This will help your wolf see you as its “top dog.” A wolf-hybrids’ provider decides when it eats. This also helps with house breaking as your wolf-hybrid won’t have food constantly moving through its digestive system, thus establishing a routine doing its “business” at about the same time every day. Once house broken and bonded, consider keeping food in front of them all the time. This will help to keep them from getting food aggressive.

Housetraining: The method that has worked best for me is “crate training.”

This doesn’t have to be an actual crate. Anything that will give them a small area to be in when they are napping is fine. When they wake up, they will sniff around the small area and usually decide to wait to go out to do their “business.” Frequently they will cry to let you know they need to go out. When they are loose in the house, watch for them sniffing around on the floor as that’s what they do prior to doing their business.

What to chew? Chewing is a problem with most puppies and no less with this breed. They chew to cut teeth and to develop jaw strength. I have found they enjoy chewing on pine fire wood. At eight weeks, a stick two (2) inches in diameter is about right. As they get bigger, the stick needs to get fatter. They like pine because it is soft and their teeth actually sink into it. They will chew the end off and leave pine slivers on the floor but hey it beats having them chew on the leg of the dining room table. Do not give them old shoes or old socks to chew on, as they don’t know the difference between the lovely smell of your old shoes and your new ones. Additionally, bones are good chew toys. The bottom line is, don’t allow them to do anything you don’t want a 100-pound-dog doing.

If picking up your pup at the ranch is not an option for you, and your wolfdog must be flown to you, they will be very nervous due to the flight and confined in a crate for possibly eight-plus hours. Don’t take them out of their carrier at the airport. Wait until you are in what will be their safe environment to take them out preferable in a small bedroom or bathroom where they can’t get too far away. Sit on the floor and wait for them to unwind a bit and come to you. Have some treats handy, at first they will be too nervous to eat. As they calm down they will come to you for the treat. If the flight comes in late at night, your wolf-hybrid may not take to you until the next morning. Our pups are well socialized, so they will be very friendly as soon as the nervousness wears off.

If you have paid to have your pup personally delivered to you by our Ranch Family, they will not be that nervous, even though they have had a long ride in the car. They have been in the car with people they know and trust. They will need help becoming accustomed to their new surroundings, but just keep them close for the first week or so. Your puppy will be fine.

Your wolf-hybrid will have had his or her first shots before you get your pup, so don’t rush out and get them more shots. You will receive a shot record so you will know when the next shots are due.

For more information, visit http://www.californiawolves.com. You can reach Edye Marin at Northern California Wolf Ranch at 530-990-2308 or edyemarin@gmail.com or P.O. Box 93, Etna, CA 96027

Find Safe and Fun Dog Toys For Your Special Pup

2011-10-17T00:43:00.000-07:00

Some of the greatest gifts you can give to your pet are safe, fun dog toys. These come in all shapes, sizes and materials and are loved by dogs of all ages, from puppy stage to full grown and older canines. Why do dogs love toys? They bring out the "playful" side in your pet, allowing you to play and train simultaneously without it seeming to be a dreaded task. Teach your dog to fetch, sit, shake, etc. with his favorite item. Toys make a great substitute for edible treats once he has completed his initial behavioral and "tricks" training.

It's also believed that toys bring a since of comfort to a dog when he's home alone, in his crate or even outdoors in his doghouse. Just like we become attached to certain "security" items (blankets, pillows, stuffed animals, etc.) as children, dogs can also develop an attachment to certain toys. Many new owners will put a toy in puppy pens for added security.

So Many to Choose From

When choosing dog or puppy toys, you'll want to look for the higher quality brands. Why? Dogs love to chew and paw at the toys during play. They'll even grab them in their mouth and sling them back and forth in an effort to "rip it to shreds!" So it's a good idea to look for high quality toys that will last a while. You might pay a few dollars more up front, but will save a great deal for the long run. Also, dog toys that are durable can prevent choking hazards in case your pet has a tendency to eat items that are not food. The more durable products can be left in dog cages while you're away without worry.

Soft or Hard Toys?

Soft dog toys are recommended for puppies but can also be given to older dogs for playtime. These are great for playing or as a security toy. Hard toys work better for dogs that have obsessive chewing habits. For soft toys, find those that have strong material that's braided tightly for strength. Stretchy, flexible weave material is best for tug-of-war type games. There are even weaves that can floss your dog's teeth while playing! These stuffed play items come in a variety of characters too.

Chewing Toys

Some dog toys are more for chewing and dental health, such as the Dura Chew bone, a flavored bone that works great for dogs with aggressive chewing habits. Find a bone that meets the level of your dog's chewing habits and strength. There are also puppy chew bones and teething toys to help your puppy get through the teething stage without fuss. Chewing bones and toys come in a variety of shapes and sizes, including rubber bones, bones with bells, rubber hot dogs, scruffer toys, and dental sticks.

Balls for Fun!

Another popular type of dog or puppy toy is the ball! Balls are available in various sizes and with unique features that make your pet's playtime even more interesting. There are glow-in-the-dark balls that jingle, balls that blink, and treat-filled or dog food-filled balls. The Babble Ball is a popular dog toy that makes more than 20 different real sounding animal sounds, such as coyote howling, bird sounds, barking dogs, rooster sounds, cow, goat, cat meows, lions, frogs, etc. Some even make wisecrack jokes during play! These come in various sizes and are made with a durable construction for long lasting enjoyment.

Consider shopping online for the best deals for high quality dog toys, dog food, leads, training collars, dog cages and more. You can have a great time with your pet without worry when choosing the right toys!

Simple Tips For Moving With Pets

2011-09-25T22:39:00.000-07:00

There are questions that you should ask yourself when your moving preparations get underway. You need not leave your pets behind, right? But how are you going to approach it? Well, start with the health condition of your pets. It's important that you ensure your pet is in good health before you get out as you may find it hard at times when it comes to transporting a sick pet. Also; consider the behavior of your pet. There are those who are too aggressive hence cannot make good travelers. This will enable you put in place the right mechanisms that will enable you restrain your pet in the right way. Especially when it comes to moving with Melrose moving company, you need to let the mover know of it since this will enable them arrange for specialized transport means. Furthermore getting to know whether or not your pets will be welcome in your new destination is important considerations that will enable you know whether or not you can move with your pet.

You have to ensure that your pets gets used to travels before the actual day of moving out. It's imperative that you carry your pets more frequently in your car before you hand them over to the Melrose moving company for the specialized move. But if you are of the opinion that your pets cannot be transported as a result of their aggression, you may consider getting air ticket for a specialized move. Air transport is better since it's a smooth move that may not be as bumpy as other transport means.

However, before traveling, it's important that you get your rabies certificate ready since all animals transported by air and sea must have such certificates. This is more important if you are traveling across territorial borders since immigration offices will demand to see the rabies certificate.Furthermore,for an international move with the Melrose moving company, this certificate will still; form a major requirement that you will be asked for. This certificate should be obtained within 2 weeks before your actual day of moving out.

Your veterinary doctor should ensure that your pet gets the required treatment of any ailment that may be suffering from. You can have the pets deformed and also given some preventive injections to enable them resist any infection that may strike at their new environment. Any other injection that may be advised by your veterinarian should be administered in the right dose.

If you are not very sure if you will find your pets diet in your new station, it's imperative that you pack it and hand it over with your other stuff to the Melrose moving company. This is important as it will enable you avoid digestive setups that your pet may experience. You can also consider packing your pet's medicines and equipment for grooming an s this will make it easy for you at your new destination.

Melrose moving company can help offer you the necessary advice that's necessary to enable you move your pets well. By following it, you will make your life easier!

The Importance of Doggy Daycare

2011-09-22T22:38:00.000-07:00

When you work all day it is hard to know what to do with your dog. You could leave him in a crate or enclosed in a room in your house but is this really fair on the dog. The majority of people work nine till five or longer, therefore your dog is left for at least eight hours on its own. This can cause boredom, isolation, behavioural problems and even depression, not to mention that they can't hold the toilet for that amount of time. This means you will come home to a lot of mess in your house and also this is extremely uncomfortable for your dog and could cause bladder problems.

The best solution for your dog if you are out at work all day is doggy daycare, this is a new phenomenon where people are opening up their homes to look after other peoples dogs when they are out at work. The following points prove just how important doggy daycare is.

1. Your dog will get to interact with lots of other dogs which is vitally important for pack integration. This is even more important if your dog is a puppy as many of the behavioural problems that we see in dogs occur because they are poorly socialised when they are young.

2. Dogs that integrate just with their owners and no other dogs or people can suffer from anxiety and fear biting. This can also cause separation anxiety and cause the dog to be a nervous wreck when it does eventually for some reason have to be apart from its owners. This is very unfair on the dog as it will be suffering all sorts of negative emotions which are unnatural and wouldn't be apparent in the wild.

3. Dogs love it! They get to go to doggy daycare on a regular basis so they make friends with the other dogs and look forward to going every time. What would you prefer staying at home on your own all day or meeting up with your friends and having fun, it's the same for your dog!

4. Protect your home - if your dog is at doggy daycare having a great time, he won't be at your home, bored, causing him to chew and destroy the furniture and toileting around your home.

5. At doggy daycare your dog will get walked at least once a day where they will play with the other dogs and have a great time.

6. On the dog walks at doggy daycare your dog will get basic dog training to work on his recall, use of commands and walking on the lead. If you are in the process of puppy training this will help to reinforce that training on a regular basis.

Doggy daycare is obviously more expensive than leaving your dog on its own but is worth every penny as you will return home from work to a happy and content dog and not feel stressed and worried that it's on its own. Also it will teach your dog to be well socialised and fully integrated with other dogs and stop separation anxiety and aggression to other dogs.

4 Paws in the park is a premium dog walking and pet service, based in a family home in East Sheen, London, providing a modern and preferred alternative to kennels.4 Paws in the park is owned by Brodie Ellis. For more information please visit: http://www.thedogwalkeruk.com.

Good Doggy Behavior Tutorial

2011-09-19T22:37:00.000-07:00

For most people, the number one and most essential thing you would carry out with a new doggie is place them in canine behavior training. That coaching would make them learn the way to conduct themselves in particular situations that they will certainly face someday in their lifetime. Then again, some house owners either can't find the funds for obedience instructions or decide they will perform it themselves as an alternative. That being said, this is the brief run down regarding what you might gain via that training that will help determine if your puppy dog could reap the benefits of it.

The Key Benefits Of Dog Obedience Tutorial

To start with, canines in behavior lessons rapidly figure out how to react to precise, properly delivered orders. That also suggests you will learn how to render those commands. Plenty of people disregard their side of the deal in pet ownership. They feel like the burden lies with their canine, but not themselves. Picture canine training to be a two way highway and it definitely will be alot more effective. On this page are various examples.

Leadership - During coaching, you are going to learn methods to assert your alpha role on your doggy to show them that you're the leader every time and that your dogs must listen to you. Should these types of patterns are repeated in your house, the dog can have a substantially better time following your lead. Alpha dog leadership is definitely the basis of every high-quality training.

No Gnawing or Woofing - Two of the largest complaints that a puppy can have are biting and too much barking. Different amounts of puppy coaching could address these individual behaviours as well as make certain that the puppy won't be disobedient. Biting in particular will have to be sorted out at the junior age.

Walking - Sick and tired of having your doggy pull you downtown? Through a outstanding instruction class, you'll quickly learn how to manage your puppy's motions, stop them from running around on you and subsequently show them to sit and stay when desired at road sides and when other pets wander by.

Doggy tuition is necessary in several aspects since it grants the basis for each of the concerns that may possibly occur inside your home. When a dog is still under 12 months old or simply couldn't behave correctly, give thought to a course to make it easier to progress.

Don't forget that your pets can only achieve what it is trained to do. It's essential to stay consistent, encouraging as well as good at maintaining the commands you issue. The minute you start having trouble making up your mind or forgetting to re-assert your instructions, your dog will begin to return back to the initial behaviours that you previously worked so hard to educate them out of.

How To Take Care of Your New Kitten

2011-09-16T22:34:00.000-07:00

The first step toward having a good pet cat is choosing a healthy kitten. Visit a litter of kittens about two weeks before they are ready to leave their mother. They will be six weeks old. Ask permission to pick up the kittens and be very gentle when to do so. Make sure that a kitten has clear, bright eyes and a shiny, full coat. Check the skin under the fur for any problems such as sores, rashes or bald spots. You want to choose a kitten that has healthy skin.

Next, make sure that the kitten is neither too thin nor too fat. A kitten that is either all skin and bones or has a bloated belly is likely to have an infection. Do not select such a kitten. Also check the kitten's nose and ears for any sign of discharge or infection.

While you are checking for signs of physical health, take note of the kitten's temperament. Carry the kitten to another part of the room and watch how it behaves. Is it nervous or scared? Does it respond to gentle petting by growing calmer? You want a kitten that adjusts quickly to you. This is a sign it has been handled by the owners of the litter, which is important in preparing the kitten for living with people.

It is extremely important to start out with a friendly cat. A scratching, hissing or terribly frightened kitten will grow up to be a difficult cat at best. At worst, the kitten will never become a friendly, loving pet.

After you have chosen a kitten that you like, make arrangements to pick it up when it is ready to leave its mother (when it is about eight weeks old). A day or two after you get your new kitten, take it to a veterinarian (an animal doctor). The vet will give it the first in a series of shots to protect it against common cat diseases. Tell the vet if you intend to let the cat outdoors. If you do intend to let it out, the kitten may need a shot to protect it against rabies.

The vet will also examine the kitten for signs of disease. Bring along sample of the kitten's dropping so that the doctor can check for worms.

If the vet gives you medicine for the kitten, make sure that you or one of your parents understands how to give medicine. Ask the vet or the vet's assistant to show the proper method. Give the medicine to the kitten exactly as directed by the vet. Twice a day is not good enough if the kitten is supposed to get medicine three times a day.

Young kittens like to eat every few hours, about four times a day. At each meal, serve a saucer of fresh milk alongside a small dish of dry cat food. For one or two of the meals, mix in canned food (meat or fish). If the kitten gets diarrhea, switch to powdered milk. If the diarrhea continues, reduce the amount of milk and the number of meals at which it is served.

Kittens love occasional treats, such as fresh liver, kidney or cottage cheese. But dry cat food is the best thing for a steady diet. Keep treats to once or twice a week.

As the kitten grows older, you can gradually reduce the number of meals. At six months, two meals each day are adequate. At one year, one meal a day is all that is needed. If your cat pesters you for a second meal, give a little more than half of the one-meal portion twice a day. The size of portions is usually recommended on the cat food box.

For your new kitten, and later your adult cat, keep a bowl filled with fresh water all times.
Although your kitten will decide for itself where it will sleep, it might enjoy a soft, snug spot you prepare for it. A fluffy, clean hand towel folded and placed in a shoe box that sits on its side, could make an attractive bed for your kitten. But the kitten may just decide to perch itself on a chair instead.

You will have to help your kitten get used to using a litter box to go to the bathroom. Getting your cat used to a litter box is usually easy, because cats are naturally clean and like to bury their droppings. A litter box is nothing more than a shallow rectangular container. The easiest kind to use is made of soft plastic. Into this you pour cat litter, which is sold in stores. Cover the bottom of the litter box with about two inches of cat litter.

Take your kitten to its litter box as soon you bring it home. Sometimes that first visit is all is needed. But until you are sure that the kitten understands, take it there after each feeding.
Sometimes cats will not use a litter box if something about the particular brand of litter is not to their liking. Occasionally they will avoid the box if its location is not private enough. Try to solve these problems if the kitten does not use the litter box from the start.

About the only unpleasant task involved in owning a cat is cleaning the litter box every two or three days. If you do not clean it, the box will begin to smell.

Empty all the used litter into a paper or plastic bag and take it outside to the garbage. Then wash the litter box with soap and water. Put the newly filled box back in the same place, so that you do not upset your cat's routine.

If you plan on allowing your cat to go to outside, you may decide to let it go to bathroom outdoors. In this case, do not provide a litter box. Instead, take your new kitten outdoors to a spot where there is a patch of dirt in which it can dig and burry. After a few days, the kitten will wait by the door to be let out. Some people even install little cat doors so that their pets can come and go as they please.

An outdoor cat should wear a collar with an identification tag on it. The tag should give that cat's name as well as your name and address.

Now that you know how to make your kitten feel welcome in its new home, it is time for you and your kitten to get to know one another.

How to Housebreak a Puppy

2011-09-13T22:31:00.000-07:00

When you bring a new puppy home to meet the family, it is an exciting time for everyone involved. Your family's attention will be soaked up by your new arrival. But, as the little guy adapts to his environment, it will become obvious that with this new arrival comes the tasks of responsibility and patience.

To have the ability to train your puppy will become essential. Your new arrival will rely on you to help him adjust to his new environment. His behaviors from here on out will determine on your guidance and leadership.

The way your puppy behaves will be solely in your hands. Many puppy owners are surprised when their puppy acts untrained. The little guy is having accidents all over the house, he is chewing on items in your house you would rather him not chew on, he barks, digs and so on.
Keep in mind that training your new pup will require patience and repetition, which will be a time consuming process. This will be more then worth it though, if you are one that truly loves and care for your pup and want him to succeed in having a happy life.

Beginning with training early on and having your pup interact with other puppies will help your puppy mature into a well trained dog. Your pup will need dedication and accountability that will help him throughout his life.

To give the best possibility of success with you puppy, you will need to instill basic obedience; leash training, puppy interaction, and house training right from the get go.

The best way to train your puppy is through means of encouragement and positive interaction. As soon as you bring your puppy home, begin your puppy training by offering praise and rewards when your puppy does something correct.

To help your puppy achieve his best, it will be important to focus on creating good habits and preventing the bad ones. It is best to start your puppy off right, instead of having to correct bad habits he has learned over time.

When you are developing good habits for your puppy, it helps to be consistent. Also, begin your training with simpler commands and always follow through multiple times by developing a repetition. Keep your training exercises short as your pup is new to this and may lose focus over longer periods of time.

You will find that if you earn the trust and respect of your puppy, he will be able to comprehend and sustain the new knowledge instilled in him quicker versus using punishment or harsh corrections.

Before you know it, you will recognize your puppy wanting to be trained. The happier your pup is, the more he will be excited to be trained and have willingness to learn.

Patience in yourself is strongly encouraged as your puppy is still a young little guy and doesn't understand what exactly you are trying to accomplish in the beginning. Being realistic and understanding of this will increase his chances of successfully mastering his training.

This information will be new to you pup. Move past the shortcomings and focus on his journey, starting from where he came from when you brought him home.

This part of your puppy's life is very important. Once your puppy senses that you are enjoying the training exercises as much as he is, you will be able to create a strong, trusting bond with him that will last a lifetime.

Tips To Stop Puppy Biting

2011-09-10T22:30:00.000-07:00

When you take a new puppy home, they will love to gnaw on everything including your feet and hands, yet it's not ever smart to allow this because it brings about much more biting that will really end up breaking the skin, and it will make it hard to stop puppy biting in case you have recently been permitting this. Really young puppies that have not started biting harder are often looked at as adorable while nibbling on your hands, nevertheless you mustn't permit it because this may result towards hurtful puppy biting as your dog gets bigger.

When you don't let dog biting on hands or feet from the beginning, this shows your puppy dog that human skin is simply not a thing to bite on. While it is true that a few dog breeds do not have the puppy-biting phase, some go through it and take it into maturity, and that is the main reason you don't ever choose to allow it to commence. When your puppy has begun biting there are some techniques an individual can use to be able to help you end puppy biting from lasting and getting worse. This is also true for those who have young kids at home, since puppy dog teeth are very razor-sharp and painful, so you must stop puppy dog nipping immediately.

Have fun with Them Technique

Considering the fact that puppies tend to be sociable, they want to interact with an individual, if you ever stop the play, and won't play with them, your puppy will most likely stop puppy biting. For example, you're playing fetch with your puppy dog and he begins to chew hard on the feet or even hands, play yelp, simply turn your back away from your puppy dog and then walk away. It stops the game and sometimes will get rid of puppy dog nipping since the game has ended and so they do not get to enjoy moment with you.

A "No" Command Approach

Another technique feel free to use would be to fill up an unfilled can like a soft drinks can with 10 to 15 cents and tape the mouth of this can perfectly so your coins are not able to come out whenever shaking the can. If your puppy starts biting, give the command word "No" and also at the same time give the can one particular excellent shake to gain their attention and frequently stop puppy biting. This reinforces the spoken order, "No" or perhaps you can make the verbal order, "No bite" or anything you want, however stay consistent.

The "No" Hit Technique

You should never indulge your puppy in play fighting, tug of war activities, or running after because each of these motivate biting, and once you have permitted it to go on, it helps make it harder stop puppy biting. When puppies play with other puppies, they will chase and motivate biting, but when one gets too rough, one other yelps and therefore the game stops. Thus, one of the best means to train bite inhibition is with another puppy, although this can be a lot more than you want to take on, but it surely helps the puppy quickly learn what's too difficult of a bite. Do not ever spank, strike, or slap your puppy, they are going to learn to fear a person that may lead towards all sorts of undesirable behaviors as they grow into their adult years, thus, stop puppy biting before it becomes out of control with good training.

What To Do

Training puppies not to bite is one of the most important training, and one that will be done immediately. Ideally, your puppy should realize that when it is 10 weeks old, biting isn't okay. Therefore, you'll make many years with each other much more pleasurable and avoid problems down the road.

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Cats and Cancer

2011-09-06T22:27:00.000-07:00

Just about all there for several reasons as there was always a huge variety to choose from, from the comfort of little kittens to your veterans, which would cherish a new loving home.

While cancer in cats isn't as common as it in dogs, it's still one of the main causeof death in older cats. Using the Animal Cancer Foundation, 6 000 0000 cats will be clinically determined to have cancer in the us along. And growcause cats are masters at masking illness, it is usually harder to detect. Cancer once was a death sentence for cats, but recent advances in feline cancer research are making treatment possible on many occasions. Just like with human cancers, early detection is essential to successfully treating feline cancers.

Common cancers in cats

Essentially the most common sorts of cancer in cats is lymphoma. Other frequently seen cancers are oral squamous carcinomas, just like what people get. Fibrosarcomas, or soft tissue sarcomas, are tumors developing in muscle or perhaps in the connective tissue from the body. These are generally associated with injections and vaccinations. Other kinds of cancer are less common, nonetheless they do take place in cats: lung tumors, brain tumors, nasal tumors, liver tumors. There are actually fewer incidences of mammary tumors (yes, cats could possibly get breast cancer, too) since more cats are spayed and spaying is among the best ways to prevent this type of cancer.

Indication of feline cancer

People and cats both show similar symptoms on the subject of cancer:

Lumps, especially lumps that seem to be getting bigger
Sores that don't heal
Modifications in bowel or bladder habits
Unexplained bleeding or a strange discharge from any body opening
Lack of appetite and fat loss
Difficulty in breathing
Lameness or stiffness that persists over a period of time
Bad odor
Having problems eating or swallowing food

If you notice your cat showing such symptoms, take him for your veterinarian for just a thorough examination.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis will vary, according to the presenting symptoms. An exam probably will add a complete blood chemistry, blood count, and urinalysis. Your veterinarian takes x-rays, perform an ultrasound, and take tissue biopsies. According to the place that the biopsies are extracted from, this will require sedation, or full anesthesia. Biopsies might be reviewed with a veterinary pathologist to discover the kind of cancer.

Treatment

Treatment options for cats are almost as varied as alternatives for human cancers, and will be determined by any type of cancer. Surgery is easily the most common treatment for the lumps or growths that need to get removed. Sometimes, surgery can be curative. Other cancers may require chemotherapy or radiation. Cats are likely to tolerate chemotherapy much better than people, and may have high quality of life for many months and even just years following treatment. Radiotherapy can also be used for tumors that are not to be removed. This is a more stressful therapy for cats, as it requires sedation or anesthesia for every single treatment.

Causes

There isn't all the research in the causeof feline cancer as you can find to the human side, but I wouldn't think it's a leap to assume that many of the same toxins in the environment that cause cancer in humans also cause cancers in our cats.

Pet Insurance Tips

2011-09-06T03:06:00.000-07:00

When you choose to get pet insurance you are making a responsible decision that will help you to care for your pet no matter what illness or accident occurs. Check out these tips and tricks that can help you to get the most out of your pet insurance.

Compare the different types of pet insurance against your specific needs to see which pet insurance you should go with. You may prefer a lower monthly payment or a higher level of coverage. Shop around until you find the best fit. Remember, don't automatically go for the cheapest monthly payment, or assume that the highest premium offers the best coverage.

Pay attention to all the different elements of the policy and keep it where you can access it easily. Make sure you have a good understanding of what exactly your policy does and does not cover. the last thing you want when your pet is sick or injured is to think that your pet insurance will pay the bills and then discover that you did not understand your coverage.

Some pets that you adopt from a shelter may come with a period of pet insurance for free. While this is a great service that can help you save money and help you get the needed treatment if your newly adopted pet gets sick, be careful that you are not pressured into sticking with pet insurance that is not right for you.

If you have multiple pets, see if you can get a better deal with a package of pet insurance. Don't just automatically go with a single provider for all your pets, you may find that your needs will be better met by using various different policies for each pet. Bear in mind, though, that it may be easier to deal with a single company for your pet insurance needs than several different ones.

Remember, pet insurance isn't just for dogs and cats. Many pet insurance offer coverage for other furry friends, such as Pets at Home Rabbit Insurance. Rabbits are the third most common pet in the UK, just behind dogs and cats, and their medical care can be even more expensive due to the special training and equipment that your vet may need to treat your bunny.

Tapeworm Symptoms in Cats

2011-09-03T22:26:00.000-07:00

There are the different tapeworm symptoms for cats that you should certainly be aware of and watch for as a pet owner to see if there may be a tapeworm in cats. If you notice any of these, you want to reach out to a vet or use a tapeworm treatment in cats immediately.

A loss of weight is a sure tapeworm symptom for cats that you will be aware of without a problem to home diagnose a tapeworm in cats. What occurs is the tapeworm is feeding off of a portion of the food that your cat is eating, thus the cat is really absorbing less food than it appears to be. This will result in a loss of weight for your cat that unless treated, can end up leading to more significant problems. Additionally, as the tapeworm continues to grow, it will take up more space in your cat's digestive system,convincing the cat into thinking it is no longer as hungry, as the cat will not eat as much as it needs to, and the tiny amount of food it is taking is being taken away by the tapeworm.

If you indeed observe your cat running around more than expected and almost seeming paranoid, this is another tapeworm symptom for cats. It could also be very jumpy also.
Unfortunately, tapeworms have a toxin which can often cause cats to convulse. And, when tapeworm segments are let go from the tapeworm and released through relieving itself, the segments occasionally stick to the anus, causing uncomfortable itching for your cat in that area. You will also see your cat dragging its rear end down the ground.

As you hear your cat whining or {leaning over, it is likely it is having belly pains as a result of a tapeworm in your pet. Although this could be as the result of other ailments, a tapeworm is definitely a possibility. You may also notice your cat running its tongue across its belly more than its normal cleaning scenario; or more scary, it may scratch or bite at its stomach.

As your cat is experiencing diarrhea or is throwing up, this is another tapeworm symptom for cats. This can be bad because your cat may then get dehydrated which can end up causing many health risks for your cat.

As you see any of these tapeworm symptoms in cats, you should get a tapeworm treatment for cats right away or be sure to contact your vet. Do not allow these horrible meanies affect your pet in a bad way any more than need be.

Learn more at www.tapewormincats.com/tapeworm-symptoms-for-cats

The Balance of Love and Discipline

2011-09-02T00:48:00.000-07:00

By Seth Marin, Trainer for Northern California’s Wolf Hybrid Ranch

When buying a new puppy, many people have questions about how to bond with and discipline their puppies. Over the years we have gathered a great deal of experience in this matter. The one recurring theme we have noticed is that you cannot have one (love or discipline) without the other. You spoil your pet and wonder why it won’t obey even simple commands, or you only yell at your pet anytime you see it and wonder why it won’t come when you call. Both of these environments are unhealthy for a pet.

This will not be a guide to training your pet to roll over and play dead, this is a guide for new pet owners to inform them on what we have discovered, and what they can discover from their relationship with their new puppy. We are honored to share our insights from years of breeding and training at http://californiawolves.com/resources

I considered writing this in a chronological manner, but every animal has its own personality, and its own rate at which they mature.

When you first bring your puppy home, the balance will favor love. This is the time when you’re forming your bond with your new puppy. This puppy will be your best friend for better or worse. This time is fundamental to your puppy. Typically I tell a new owner that an average of a week of constant attention and love is important for their new puppy. Depending on their socialization from birth, it could be more or less than a week. We very intensively socialize our puppies from birth, and typically they form new bonds in just a few days. For those first few days, I recommend that people refrain from chastising their puppy. You want to build a trust first.

The puppy will have to reach a certain age before it understands the concept of “mine” anyway. “Mine” is a word we’ve used with our puppies to signify things that are off limits to them. Even animate things like our cats, are ours, not theirs. As they get closer to adulthood they will better understand this principle and respect it.

The concept of “No” is the same. Although we typically don’t use the word “no” with our dogs. We instead use a sound, like “ah!” with a strict tone of voice. And in some cases I will growl at my dogs if I adamantly want them to stop a behavior. But you should do what is most comfortable for you.

Discipline is important to maintain your position as the alpha in your pack. Not only will this make you safer with any dog you own, but it will also make your wolf or dog feel safer. When there is a noise out in the darkness, my wolfdogs hide behind me. When the puppy is still small, after they’re bonded to you, you should put them on their back on the ground. This will let them know absolutely that you are the alpha. It will also ensure that when they are too large to easily be physically dominated, they will still be submissive to you. Another sign of submission is their ears pulled back against their head. The importance of being the alpha in your household is that this will give your wolfdog a sense of security and stability. That is why this balance is so important, on both sides...

Last and certainly not least, Love. This is even more important than discipline. Many dogs around the country and the world each year are treated with no love. That is a tragedy. Before you consider buying any pet, you should search inward and consider if you have the time and energy to give them the love they need. I’m happy to see my dogs every time I see them, whether it’s been five days or five minutes since I last saw them. They return this love to me equally, just as they will for you. Love also extends to how you care for your animal. Make sure they have fresh, clean drinking water everyday. Make sure you give them the proper diet (Evo, Blue Buffalo, Taste of the Wild, etc), these are examples of foods with no unhealthy fillers. Your dogs looks and attitude will be reflected by the quality of their diet. Make sure you always nestle away money for surprise veterinary needs, this is important, you never know what tomorrow will bring.

In summation, if your only reason for buying a wolfdog is to have a trophy pet to show off to your friends, DO NOT BUY ONE. If you’re looking for a loyal friend who will always give you unconditional love, then a wolfdog may be just right for you. And don’t sweat this training too much, we are always willing to help those who buy wolfdogs from us with any issues they may have. We’re just a phone call away.

For more information, visit www.californiawolves.com. You can reach Northern California Wolf Ranch at 530-990-2308 or P.O. Box 93, Etna, CA 96027

What You Should Know About Rescue Dog Training

2011-08-31T22:25:00.000-07:00

Once a dog is provided with a brand new home the initial task will likely be how you can start the rescue dog training. A number of men and women will choose to obtain a dog in this manner simply because they will demonstrate to the owner a great deal of gratitude. Even though to a certain extent this can be true every dog is deserving of a great home with a routine and quality training from their owner.

At times the dogs may have problems and trouble getting along with other animals or children due to what they have been through. To find out if this is the case the brand new owner could talk to the foster home where the dog might have stayed. The previous guardian could possibly be able to shed some light on what level the dog was trained at and how they react to small children and cats.

With the understanding of what the dog has encountered and also their temperament it is now possible to monitor their behavior and work out the ideal program. The very first thing that must be tackled by rescue dog training is getting the animal to trust people once again. Usually whenever a dog is abused or badly treated they will find it hard to trust other people.

While walking your dog in the park it is a good idea to introduce them to other people and offer them a treat to show they're harmless. Should the dog seem to be nervous gently pat their head and chin to reassure them that they're okay. It is actually not a good idea to force your dog into doing anything they appear not comfortable with; people must take their time and try to remember they still have tomorrow.

If the dog can't sit at command already this must be taught right away. Whenever the dog meets others tell him to sit and that should additionally stop him from jumping up. When on walks make certain the dog sits at the curb and as a form of encouragement give them a treat for performing as they are told. Even at meals be certain the dog sits before they eat; by doing this they are going to become a really obedient animal and always realize that the owner is the boss.
A crate is a good bit of equipment to have to start with especially because the person will not know how the dog will react when left on his own. To get them used to the crate the owner could toss toys in there and offer them their meals in it to show it's a fun place to be. Not all dogs will need this because some will have had rescue dog training to a high degree already.

Are you wondering if you dog is appropriate for rescue dog training? Find out if your dog is a good match. STOP your dog behavior problems and make him WANT to follow your every command! Click here now to download your FREE report (a $27 value): http://www.dogtrainingheaven.com/dog-training-book/

Best Dog Food For Allergies

2011-08-28T22:23:00.000-07:00

Food is one of the leading causes of allergies in dogs. When your dog develops an allergy towards a certain food, you need to remove it from the diet and look into other alternatives to find the best dog foods for allergies. Two of the most common alternatives are commercially produced hypoallergenic pet food and homemade dog food.

The important thing to remember is that the ingredient causing the allergy needs to be completely removed from the animal's diet. Increased exposure to the ingredient will only intensify your dog's suffering.

Dog food allergies are not predictable. It is entirely possible that your pet may suddenly develop an allergy to a food that it has been eating for a long time. Some of the most common foods found in many different commercial and homemade pet foods and which can cause an allergy include meats such as chicken, lamb and beef. Canines can also develop allergies to fish, wheat, soy, corn, eggs and other dairy products.

There are some commercially produced dog foods that you could give your pet if it is suffering from any form of food allergy. These are usually sold through veterinarians and are known as hypoallergenic pet food. They will not cause your pet any further distress as they exclude all of the most common allergens (ingredients which may cause allergies). The difficult thing with these foods is getting your pet to eat it as they are usually bland and tasteless, not flavoured with extra fat the way regular pet foods are.

These hypoallergenic foods are better for your pet than most commercial canine foods are as they contain no added chemical preservatives, colourings or flavourings, all of which can be very harmful to your dog's health. However, make sure that they contain all the necessary nutrients that your dog needs in order to be happy and healthy.

Homemade dog food allows you to remove the cause of your pet's allergy from the diet, thus removing all the discomfit that the symptoms cause your dog. It also enables you to watch the ingredients that go into your pet's food, and to make sure that they receive all the necessary nutrients that their bodies require.

Anybody can make homemade dog food as it is made using ingredients found in any kitchen. You don't need to be a rocket scientist to make delicious nutritious meals for your pet. In fact, it is so easy that even kids can do it!

To learn more about how to give your dog the best food and nutrition possible, visit http://homemadedogtreatsrecipes.net

Bonding With Your New Dog

2011-08-25T22:21:00.000-07:00

You did it. You went out and found the perfect new dog for your home, and now Sparky is sitting in the middle of the kitchen looking at you like you've just landed from the planet Venus, which we all know is full of cats, and you can't decide if he's licking his chops because he'd like to swallow you whole, or he wants a kiss. The false assumption most people make is that dogs and people bond automatically and all you have to do is bring Sparky home, and everything will work out perfectly. For some lucky people that's the case, but just as often, the new dog owner is left standing in the middle of the room wondering if they should run, or give Sparky a big hug.

Puppies vs. Older Dogs

People often believe that they must get a puppy because bonding will be automatic with a young dog. That is not necessarily true. The truth is that a young dog will feel more dependent on everything from you, possibly, more than an older dog, but a lot of that will depend on how the puppy was raised from birth until you bring him home. Puppies who come from a stable, loving environment that provides a safe place, how secure their life was in that home might affect how a puppy sees the world. Indeed the people around them can have a big effect on how quickly they bond, and what type of bonds they form with humans for the rest of their lives.

How hard it is to bond with an older dog is complicated as well. The experiences your new older dog has had in his life will reflect how he feels about people, and how quickly he will bond with you as his new "person." The fact is that any dog can adjust well to a new home, and love the people around them, but some may take more time and work than others. It helps greatly to know as much about your new dog's background as possible.

Steps to Help Create a Great Bond with Your New Dog

Keep things Positive. Remember first that dogs do not think like people do, and they don't see the things that they are doing as "bad." Punishing, screaming and yelling at your dog will only confuse and scare him whether he's young or old. The better solution is to avoid all possibilities where your new dog can get into trouble. Make sure you walk Sparky often. Young or old, when you first bring a new dog into your home, treat him as if he were a young pup who can't hold his body functions long. Take him out every hour, and praise him profusely when he does what he's supposed to do.

Remember, your home is unfamiliar territory when you first bring Sparky home. It's no wonder he's sitting in the middle of the kitchen eyeing you suspiciously, and licking his chops. Gently take him around, show him where he can sleep, as well as where the water and food bowls are.
Introduce Others Carefully. If you have other animals, especially other dogs in the house, try to introduce them to each other in a neutral place where they can get used to each other before they have to compete for food and water in your home. If Sparky is chewing on your favorite slippers when you get up in the morning, instead of flying off the handle, take them away firmly, say "no" and then happily offer him a better alternative.

When you find Sparky eliminating on the living room rug, don't go crazy. That will frighten and confuse him. Never, by the way, rub your dog's nose in an accident, or hit him for any reason what so ever. In fact, avoid acting negatively in any way. If Sparky is eliminating on the carpet, what you can do is get really, really mad - at yourself. If you are taking him out every hour, it's very unlikely he'll have anything left in him to do on the floor. If Sparky is chewing up your brand new loafers, take them from him, tell him "no," give him something appropriate to chew on (bone, chew toy, etc), and smack yourself with the slippers for leaving them out where he can find them before you've had enough time to establish ground rules in the home.

Things that Encourage Positive Bonding between You and Your Dog

Take Sparky out for a run, or walk around the block during playtime. Toss a Frisbee in the yard, or play ball. Lots of good, old-fashioned playing will do you both a world of good, and develop bonds of trust.

Enroll in a local training class (if Sparky is a baby, enter a puppy class when he's old enough). It doesn't have to be an obedience class, but basic obedience is very important and possibly life saving in dangerous situations. Any type of class will give you and your dog a positive focus on a constructive activity. Consider classes like agility, fly ball, or even dock diving. Whatever you find that you think both you and your dog will enjoy will encourage a great bond, and give your dog positive motivation and the confidence from learning to please you, and be active at the same time. Remember, a pooped Sparky isn't likely to be one who is going to be looking for things to get into at home.

About The Author:
Puppy City has been around for over 50 years, we pride ourselves in being the home for quality puppies for sale in Brooklyn, New York. We also have all of the supplies you will ever need, from dog food, to wee wee pads, to all the treats you will ever need in a lifetime. Visit us at http://www.PuppyCityNY.com

The Importance of Pet Beds

2011-08-18T07:01:00.000-07:00

Pet beds are a necessity, for any pet lover. There's a misconception that if your pet sleeps in your bed, they don't need pet beds. This couldn't be further from the truth. Think for a moment about the last time you walked around your house without your socks on. If this happened during the winter months, your feet were sure to be freezing. When you leave for school, work, or any other activity during the day, your dog is left in your home. During the day, your dog will lay down on the floor. The same cold floor that caused your feet to freeze is the daily resting place of your dogs. This chilling possibility is removed, when you purchase pet beds, because pet beds provide a warm and cozy location for a nap.

When you're searching for pet beds there are a few simple steps to take. For starters, look for a pet beds source that offers comfort and style. Pet beds are going to be part of your home décor. If you wouldn't pick just any color couch, don't just pick any style pet beds. Pick the pet beds that match the decorative style of your room. There are awesome pet beds available. Pet beds that are fun, like a puppy car bed, and pet beds that are practical like the cloud cushion bed.

Pet beds are affordable, practical items. If you catch your pet sleeping in multiple rooms, you should purchase multiple pet beds. This not only improves your dog's comfort, but it gives you more creative options. You can purchase fun pet beds for a child's bedroom and more formal pet beds for the kitchen. There are plenty of options.

Pet beds are great, because they not only look great, they feel great. In the same way a quality human bed can improve posture, and enhance the quality of rest, quality pet beds can accomplish this for our pets. Dogs are incredible pets. They deserve to be treated with love. So, Whether your dog sleeps in your bed or not, treat your pet today, with some high quality pet beds.

Pet Care Services - Essential Need of Pet Lovers

2011-08-14T07:00:00.000-07:00

Pet care services are among the most essential needs of pet lovers. In order to keep their pet healthy, fit and free from any kind of ailments, pet owners look for excellent pet care services. Whether they own cats, dogs, hamsters, a horse or even a python, people need to provide them enough care. Like humans, pets are also prone to climatic changes. They need essential care during extreme hot and cold weather.

There are some pet care service providers who cater to many specific needs of pets. Some of the most important services offered by pet clinics are as follows:

1. Regular Health Check -- Pet owners bring their pets to pet clinics for regular health checks. Vet experts perform a thorough inspection of every aspects of pet health and suggest medicine, treatments or preventive measures to address any health issues found. Periodic checkup of pets help reduce several major pet health risks.

2. Immunization -- Pets (both dogs and cats) are prone to several communicable and long term diseases. Immunization helps protect pets from such issues such as Para influenza, bordetella (also known as kennel cough), parvovirus, canine distemper, and rabies.

3. Spa & Bathing -- Spa and bathing services for pets are among the most popular services sought after by pet owners. People love beauty and style, and they want their pet to look beautiful, too. Spa and bathing services helps them in keep pets well groomed and maintains healthy hygiene.

4. Dentistry -- Dental care is important for pets. Cleaning teeth and gums is essential for overall pet health. Lack of proper dental care can lead to several serious ailments in pets. Pet clinics offer dentistry services to keep pets free of unfavorable bacteria, ulcerations, receding gums, root exposure, cavities, plaque, and other unwanted oral ailments.

5. Surgical Care -- Sometimes pets need surgical care in case of accidents or other medical conditions. Pet clinics offer a wide range of services such as wound care, fracture repair, biopsy (skin and soft tissue), limb amputation, abdominal exploration, caesarian section, growth removal, orthopedic surgery, spaying/neutering, tumor removal, and many other surgical needs of pets.

Pets are wonderful companions for mankind. Since the Stone Age, humans have enjoyed the company of pets. Today, pets enjoying the special treatment from their owners and they are being treated like a member of the family. Therefore, to enjoy the more quality time in the company of loving pets and to provide them best care, people rely on the services of pet clinics and other pet care service providers.

Colleyville Animal Clinic is a full-service animal treatment center, hospitalization and boarding facility. They offer boarding, grooming, and wide range of surgical services for pets in Colleyville and nearby cities. Colleyville Animal Clinic strives to present a comfortable, friendly environment for both its clients and their pets.

Signs of Rabies in Cats

2011-08-12T06:57:00.000-07:00

Rabies in cats is a deadly disease condition that is lethal to cats as well as to man if the disease is transmitted from the cats. Yeah. You have to be careful about Rabies in cats.

Signs of rabies in cats comprise many like aggression, anorexia etc. However, among these various signs, the suddenly aggressive cats have to be watched further for any intensified aggressive activities that persist in the cats.

The clinical symptoms of rabies in cats have to be coupled with history of any known dog bite incidence. In these cases, one can be able to draw a concrete opinion for the presence of rabies disease in the affected cats.

The cat that has been obeying well to the commands or the actions from the owners may stop all these activities and suddenly the one with this disease may have some abnormal behavior.

There are incidences wherein the cats with this disease may start licking the ground or the chain or the rope that helps to control them. The cats may try even to make attacks and may bite you also.

So, if you don't want your cat to reveal any such sign or symptom of rabies, it is better to have a vaccination against this disease.

This is a must if the area is endemic for rabies. Yeah. We need to be very careful because rabies is one of the zoonotic and deadly diseases and the therapy of rabies-infected cats is more difficult in general.

The affected cat many times tries to escape and may try to attack even the visitors in addition to the dogs or other cats.

You may wonder on how this cat has become so courageous in nature, all of a sudden. You come across changed behavior in the affected cats.

The cat may start using paws or digits more in order to make more pronounced scratch marks on the body of the persons handling. You may get stunned no seeing such changes in the routine activities of your cat.

The affected cat may not take adequate amounts of food materials in addition to water. There may be a change in the voice it produces and there may be symptoms equivalent of pharyngitis.

The look of the rabies-affected animal may not be a normal one. The appearance of such animals may often be aggressive ones.

Some times, the cat may be so dull indifferently. In dumb form of rabies in cats, aggression may not be seen many times in the affected cats. Rabies in cats is to be taken as a serious issue in general by the cat owner.

For more facts and info on Cat Health Care or a full list of cat diseases take a look at this: http://cathealthcareguide.com/blog/

Why Do Cats Purr?

2011-08-10T06:55:00.000-07:00

Understanding why cats purr something that people have wondered about for a long time. The basic reason is that when a cat purrs is content and happy with its surroundings.

There are of course other reasons that it will do this such as when it is a kitten and noticing it is telling the mother cat everything. In most cases the mother cat will also back up again and let them know they are safe and out of danger. Most kittens can purr when they were only two days old and this helps them to communicate with their mother.

There are other reasons that cats purr and in the wild it is very common that a cat will purr when they are injured. This lets other cats know that they are in distress and they need help. A cat will let you know when they are happy and when they are not because they have a lot of emotion. If you for example accidentally put your cat's tail they usually will snap at you at this let you know they are not happy. When you bet your cat and a beginning her this is a sign they are communicating with you and letting you know they enjoy what you're doing to them.

Remember that it is very common for cats to put her and this is a way they can communicate with you and other animals. The basic reason for preferring is to let people know they are content and happy. Kittens also will purr when they are nursing because they are communicating with their mother that they are getting a proper nutrition. it is also very common that the mother cat will purr back at the kitten to let them know everything is okay and there is no danger.

Stop Dog Barking With These Tips

2011-08-08T06:52:00.000-07:00

Is placing a dog in a crate mean? Canines, being den animals, may in fact like being kept in a den. Dogs at times once burrowed in the ground out in the wild if they wanted to sleep. The question that should be asked is why they bark and whine when in the crate. The simple reason might be that the pet is not accustomed to the crate. He believes that by barking, you'll let him out. You could potentially stop dog barking by making the crate or any other habitat for the animal pleasant and comfortable.

In the event the barking persists, there are actually additional approaches it is possible to employ to stop dog barking. Attempt to ignore him. Did you know that barking is actually their method to get attention? When they bark persistently and you come to him each time it only encourages the dog to keep on barking. The dog will soon realize that is the method to get attention and will consistently continue to bark anytime he feels he's not getting ample attention. When you pay no attention to the dog's barking he will ultimately give up on it.

Attempt to keep the dog busy with his favorite blankets, chew toys and various other preferred items when the dog is inside the crate. The objective here is to help the dog relax and help make him stop trying to get attention since he'll be busy with himself. The toys should be better positioned at the back of the crate far from the door. Just remember to not include toys that may bring harm such as rawhide. They can present the danger of choking your dog.

To stop dog barking the crate with the dog should be put in a room which has activity with other people. This might be in the corner of the dining room, kitchen or living room giving the dog sight of you. The dog in these kinds of conditions can feel a lot less isolated or less ignored. In case you put your dog inside a crate during the night it would work best to place the crate close to your bed where your dog will see you. The dog will see you sleep and know it's time for him to sleep also.

Acclimate the dog to the crate. Dogs who are not used to crates need to be introduced slowly to the crate until eventually they get adapted. That's when you will be able to leave him there for lengthier times. This can be started out by placing him inside a brief time every day to a couple hours per day as days pass.

Your dog must be made to exercise before being placed inside the crate. A dog that is exercised feels tired. This will make the dog lie down to sleep the instant he is placed in the crate. A dog that hasn't had some activity to do the whole day would like to come out and play and therefore resorts to barking to get the point across.

Are you looking for the best way to stop dog barking? STOP your dog behavior problems and make him WANT to follow your every command! Click here now to download your FREE report (a $27 value): http://www.dogtrainingheaven.com/dog-training-book/

Signs of Dog Cancer - What You Should Know

2011-08-06T06:47:00.000-07:00

Cancer is a very alarming disease. It is life threatening so it is good to have it diagnosed as early as possible. Cancer doesn't affect only humans; it can also cause danger to our pet dogs. If we really are a dog lover and if we don't want to lose our pet, we must be aware of the different signs of dog cancer.

Cancer can affect different parts of the body so signs of dog cancer may vary depending on its type. But there are also general signs wherein we can observe and we can consider as the warning signs of cancer in dogs.

So we must be aware and conscious about these changes in order to immediately give the appropriate treatment to our dogs before it progress to the late stage wherein we cannot afford to see them suffer too much. These include the following:

1. Any lump or mass that increases size, grows very fast, has irregular shape and unusual color.
2. A sore that doesn't heal.
3. Having difficulty in swallowing as well as eating.
4. Loss of appetite resulting to weight loss.
5. Irregular bladder and bowel habits resulting to difficulty in urination and defecation.
6. Bleeding and discharges in stool, urine and other body openings.
7. Breathing difficulty.
8. Cough, vomiting, diarrhea.
9. Swollen abdomen.
10. Strong odor arising from the body and bad breath.
11. Limping and stiffness.

Signs of dog cancer when classified according to types include the following:

1. Presence of lumps and masses in skin cancers.
2. Vomiting, diarrhea and lethargy in lymphoma.
3. Breast lumps in mammary cancer.
4. Abdominal enlargement, paleness, weight loss and weakness in abdominal tumors.
5. Lames and stiffness in bone cancer.

Life is so precious that we need to give extra care for it. Cancer is one of the illnesses that can be prevented if we know certain measures and are knowledgeable enough to apply it. But sometimes if it's already malignant or has not been diagnosed earlier, chemotherapy is the basic answer to it.

However, there are also certain remedies such as the ES clear that promotes boosting of immune system and gives comfort and protection to the liver and health of our dogs. Signs of dog cancer are easily detectable if we are keen enough to observe the changes that happen to our pet.

Is your dog suffering from cancer? Discover what you can do to help your pet eases pain and discomfort with an effective dog cancer treatment. Your dog can have a better health and improve its immune system. People who read this article also read: www.thedogcancertreatment.com/dog-cancer-treatment

Should I Get A Dog For My Kids?

2011-06-28T19:47:00.000-07:00

Chldren play with dogs, talk to and laugh with them, walk with them, do their homework with them and even share their strongest feelings and deepest secrets with them. Dogs love children unconditionally and never yell at or punish them for not doing their homework or chores or for not cleaning their bedroom. Kids and dogs - you just can’t beat this winning combination!

Kids learn compassion and responsibility by learning to share life with and feed and care for their pets. They learn to value and appreciate all living creatures. They learn a lot about life itself, getting sick or old, living in the moment, sharing companionship and friendship– and also the care and commitment an animal companion requires and deserves.

When is it appropriate for a child to have a pet? It truly depends on the child’s family situation and his own maturity. As a parent, know that you are ultimately responsible for the care and well-being of your family pet. Children are well-intentioned and may promise that they will take care of the pet on their own. But we, as parents, know, that children are easily distracted and preoccupied with their own responsibilities such as school, extracurricular activities, human friendships and social obligations. They may be very well-intentioned, but lack the maturity to assume full responsibility for another living being.

Before adopting a pet into your family, it is very important to have serious discussions about the obligations and responsibilities associated with pet guardianship or “parenthood”. Your child must thoroughly understand that a pet is a sentient, living creature who may be shorter lived than he, who may get sick and require veterinary care, who depends on humans for his regular food, water, grooming, exercise and overall wellness. He is a vulnerable creature who depends entirely on his human caregivers. You must also decide which type of dog best suits your family’s personality and lifestyle and to whom which responsibilities of the pet’s daily needs will be delegated.

Much thought and deliberation of each family member is required to determine if a pet is appropriate for you. Consider that the pet should be spayed or neutered, receive his vaccinations and regular visits to the vet to make sure he is in good health, have a nutritious and healthy diet, daily exercise and playtime, frequent interaction with his human family, and receive socialization and obedience training. Each member of the family must understand that the pet requires a lifetime commitment to keep him as happy and healthy and comfortable as possible. If you do not have the time, space or budget to provide a healthy life for a pet, please do not adopt one. There are countless homeless animals who have been surrendered to animal welfare organizations and shelters and ultimately euthanised simply because their owners did not take the time to conduct research as to the time, space, activity level and money associated with keeping a pet or consider how much attention, interaction and care an animal companion requires. A pet has the potential of becoming a loving, devoted, loyal, unconditionally loving and beloved family member. If he is neglected, he can become sick, bored and destructive. Whether or not to get a dog for the kids is an extremely important decision. Take the time and make the effort to determine if a pet is in your child’s future!

About The Author:
Dr. Diane Pomerance is an author, animal rescuer and pet expert. She also created the Pet Grief Counseling Program for the SPCA of Texas which incorporates grief support groups and counseling.

Visit Diane at http://www.animalcompanionsandtheirpeople.com

Are You A Responsible Dog Owner?

2010-12-19T22:53:00.000-08:00

You may have a dog and you may not. But you know that dogs are good at one thing, and that's pooping. If you live in a neighborhood that has dogs, you might find an unpleasant surprise in your lawn next time you go to mow it. It might even be hiding in your rocks. Yet all you can think is, "This could have been prevented with the proper poop bags."

That's right, it's all about the poop bags or pooper scooper. Nothing is more frustrating than either finding remains of the neighborhood dog or having you be the proud owner of that dog. You need to make sure that you are prepared every time you go out because dog's bowel systems are unpredictable. Not only that, dog poop that has been sitting out for a long time can lead to bacteria and disease. This can be harmful to your own family as well as the families around you. Rather than take that chance, you should make sure you have doggie bags at the ready each time you take your canine out.

Poop bags have been around for years, saving lawns from yellow spots and other over fertilization. Dog waste bags come in all shapes, sizes, scents, and colors, but the key to a good dog waste bag is its strength and durability. No one wants to be on a walk to find that his or her recently stuffed poop bag has developed a snag that is allowing the contents to escape. This is not a pleasant surprise for anyone.

So next time you're out and about with your dog, don't forget to bring the dog waste bags along for the ride as well. Don't embarrass yourself by leaving your dog's mess for someone else to deal with. And make sure that your poop bags can get the job done right, looking good and staying strong.

Simple Tips On Cleaning A Pet Cage

2010-11-19T22:49:00.000-08:00

Cleaning your pet’s cage is one of the keys to keeping your pet healthy at all times. It will make your pet’s living space free from germs and foul odor, making it a comfortable environment to live in. It can also minimize the chance of bacterial and fungal infections to your pet.

Cleaning cages is not a fun chore, but doing it as organized as possible will make the task less of a chore. Here are some simple tips when cleaning an animal cage:

Being systematic is really the solution to a much hassle-free cleaning process. Whenever you need to clean your pet’s cage, better transfer your pet to a safe place where he or she can feel comfortable during the cleaning time. You can put your pet in another cage while you are doing the cleaning. Bringing him or her in the yard or any confined space would be a good idea to avoid getting distracted.

Afterwards, start removing all the things inside the cage. Throw all the trash and dirt away. Be meticulous in getting rid of all the left-overs and animal wastes inside the cage. Clean up all the solid material first. Then, proceed to washing the litter pans, feeding bowls, toys, and other accessories. Don’t forget to clean the bedding. You can use fabric softener so that the bedding will be soft for your beloved pet.

Take extra time in cleaning the removable trays. Make sure you also disinfect the wire bottom and wipe it to remove any lingering poop or urine smell.

Bear in mind that the aim in cleaning your pet’s cage is to kill the germs, so it’s better to use hot water and proper cleaning agent when scrubbing the cage. To ensure the cage is cleaned very well, purchase a cage cleaner, which can be in the form of powder, wipes or spray bottle. Make sure it’s made from non-toxic materials. Use only the products that are proven safe for animals.

Whether you own a dog, cat, or any other animals, it is always important for you to make your pet’s cage clean. Doing this task regularly is essential to the health and well-being of your pet.

Andrei Smith writes for Midwest Homes 4 Pets, a company that offers a wide array of rabbit cages, bird cages and small animal cages. For more details, please visit MidwestHomes4Pets.com or contact the Toll Free Helpline: (800) 428-8560.

Reminders When Traveling With Your Dog

2010-10-06T23:18:00.000-07:00

Learning how to travel with your dog can make the experience less stressful and a lot of more enjoyable! Traveling with your pooch can be a major hassle if don’t make all the right choices. It should be planned ahead of time so you wouldn’t ruin your family weekend getaway or long vacation.

If you’ve decided to carry your dog during the trip, here are a few reminders that you can do to ensure a safe travel experience:

Buy a dog tag or collar with identification

Your dog needs to wear a collar or tag with all the necessary identification in it. A microchip may also be beneficial for additional security. The tag should contain your dog's name, your name, and your home phone number, as well as proof of rabies shots. Keep your dog's collar and tag on whenever you’re outside. No matter how well behaved your dog may be, there’s always a chance that he may accidentally get lost or get away from you. All the information on your dog tag will be very important as you travel or decide to leave your pet at a kennel.

Safety first

Always remember safety first. To ensure your dog’s safety while he’s in the car, purchase a dog car seat. With the use of this equipment, your furry friend will be safer and more comfortable if your car makes a sudden stop.

Train your dog

Before you travel, your dog should have basic training so he will be well-behaved during the trip. It is a good idea to make your first few trips in the car to somewhere fun for your dog before embarking on a long trip. Take your dog to a park so he associates a car ride with something fun.

Bring all the necessary dog supplies

When taking a long trip, don’t forget to pack all the necessary supplies for your dog. Among the essentials include water, dog food, treats, his collar and leash. You should also bring your dog’s favourite toys, and plastic bags for his poop. Also, he sure to bring any medications your dog needs.

Be prepared always

Emergencies can happen while you’re traveling with your dog, so you need to make some additional preparation. Planning your trip can make any form of emergency less stressful. Prepare a list of veterinary hospitals in the area where you’ll be staying, along with a detailed map.

Andrei Smith writes for Midwest Homes 4 Pets, a company that offers a huge selection of dog crates, pooper scooper and dog training crates. For details, please visit MidwestHomes4Pets.com or contact the Toll Free Helpline: (800) 428-8560.

Travel Safe with Pet Vehicle Barriers

2010-09-08T23:51:00.000-07:00

Pet vehicle barriers are a great means to reduce distraction while you're driving, keeping you, your passengers, and your lovely pets safe and secure at all times.

Most vehicle pet barriers are easy to install, adjustable and designed to fit in a wide variety of vehicles like SUVs, vans, station wagons, etc. They usually come in different designs and sizes to meet particular needs. Some models are trendy to complement the vehicle's interior and can even protect the fabric of the car seats. The common types of pet vehicle barriers are tubular barrier and wire mesh barrier. The former allows for horizontal and vertical adjustments, while the latter has usually black electro-coated finish for easy visibility. But whichever model of barrier you choose, make sure that you select that one that perfectly fits to the area of your vehicle for proper installation.

There are many benefits of using pet vehicle barriers and they are primarily designed for safety purposes. Not only do they provide practical distance between you and your pet, they also allow you to view your pet in the backseat. That way, you can monitor your pet's movements and ensure his safety. These barriers are a practical way to contain your pet inside your vehicle and take him anywhere you go, while giving him enough space to move or play. Pet barriers can also make perfect birthday gifts for that special pet person in your life!

Moreover, pet vehicle barriers can be very useful in transporting old, disabled, sick or injured pets. With the use of this equipment, you car will have a good divider to partition the area for your pet and your passengers. Pet vehicle barriers will prevent your pet from jumping over the passenger seat which is very dangerous, particularly when you're driving along the highway.

Because you love your pet, it is not unusual if you bring him along with you. Pet vehicle barriers come very handy as a safety device during family outing. They can protect your pet from getting injured during sudden stops, sharp turns and other unexpected road accidents. There are some occasions when pets can get very moody and agitated, so owners need to find a safe way to control them while traveling.

About the Author:
Andrei Smith writes for Midwest Homes 4 Pets, a company that offers vehicle barriers and other pet products such as dog exercise pens and dog kennels.

Dog Playpens: Why Should You Use Them?

2010-08-18T00:19:00.000-07:00

Your dog or puppy needs a safe space where he can play, exercise and roam around. One way of ensuring the safety of your pooch while he's outside your home is by using a dog playpen.

Most playpens for pets are easy to mount and assemble. Some are made of light materials, which allow you to move it from one place to another whenever necessary.

Dog playpens come in a wide array of sizes, designs and models. The type of playpen you choose should match the size of your dog. Ideally, the height of the structure must be about 2 meters higher than the height of your dog or puppy. This will prevent your dog from jumping over the playpen and escape.

Various benefits can be acquired from using dog playpens. One primary benefit is that it provides your canine a spacious area for exercise. It can serve both as a safe shelter or a spacious play area for your dog. Your dog will get all the necessary physical activity and exercise while he's staying inside the pen. Dogs, like any animals, need to move and run around. Playpens can provide a comfortable and airy space for your doggy to roam when you don't have time to take him for a walk.

A playpen can act as a protected zone of containment. So even if you leave your dog in the yard alone, you don't have to worry about his safety and the possible dangers in the surroundings. It'll prevent your doggy from crashing through your neighbor's lawn or getting attacked by wild animals.

Another benefit of using dog exercise pens is that it can be an effective tool when teaching your dog the proper way of urinating or pooping. With the use of a playpen, you can train your puppy to hold his urge to defecate until he is outside of the enclosed area.

Moreover, a dog that is kept in an enclosure usually has a well-mannered behavior. Boredom and the inability to get out and follow natural instincts are the usual causes of dog behavioral problems. Since you can carry the playpen anywhere you go, your dog will be able to run and run around and feel that he's part of the family. Most dogs who enjoy spending time in these dog playpens tend to have fewer behavioral problems such as excessive barking or chewing.

So whether you need a safe place for your dog or simply prefer a spacious area in which you'll be able to leave your pooch while finishing off an important task outside, then buying a playpen is the way to go!

Dog Crate Dolly – Uses and Benefits

2010-07-18T00:33:00.000-07:00

Transporting your dog's crate and other equipment to and from agility training can really be difficult. Whether you are going to the park or traveling for vacation, you may need to transport your dog and ensure his safety at all times. Your dog is part of your family, and you always want to look after him while you travel!

Bringing your dog outside can sometimes be a dilemma if you don't take the proper care and attention. It can also be dangerous if you do not carry out the necessary precautions to care for your pooch.

One way of ensuring a safe, hassle-free and more convenient way of transporting your dog is by investing on a good dog crate dolly. Here are some of the primary uses and benefits of using this tool:

* Crate dolly is a good piece of equipment for moving your dog and his cage or crate. It can help you bring stuff to and from dog agility trials, even through the mud. It allows you to have a more restful travel experience because you won't have to take all the weight of your dog and his crate with you.

* It is great for dog shows. Many dog trainers and agility competitors find a crate dolly very useful because it can carry lots of things like pet crates and grooming equipment and is designed to go through various kinds of surfaces, both in indoor and outdoor environments.The steel handle also makes maneuvering so much easier while protecting your dog and any other stuff you put on it.

* Dog crate dolly is specifically beneficial if you need to transport a sick, injured, or disabled dogs. Additionally, elderly and aggressive dogs can also be placed in the crate dolly. It is amazing for your dog because he won't have to suffer any violent movements that may cause him stress and anxiety.

* It can improve the functionality of a dog crate. By using a crate dolly, your dog's crate will not only be practical, it can also be portable and movable. The wheels that can move forward and backwards are perfect for hauling around your dog inside his crate.

Andrei Smith writes for Midwest Homes 4 Pets, a company that offers crate dolly, dog exercise pens and dog training crates at affordable prices.

10 Amazingly Smart & Productive Animals Humans Can Learn From

2010-05-26T22:44:00.000-07:00

Humans have proven themselves to be the planet’s most dominant species, due to our highly developed communication, critical thinking and predatory skills. But that doesn’t mean that we don’t have any competition. There are plenty of animals that we can learn from by watching the ways in which they communicate and learn from each other. While you struggle to become a more efficient student for your online college classes, try taking a cue from these 10 amazingly smart and productive animals.

1. Octupi and squids: Cephalopods — octopi, squids and cuttlefish — may be some of the smartest animals in the ocean. After studying them, scientists have deduced that cephalopods are always trying to stay busy, as they hate being bored. They use tools, are efficient eaters, and can learn new skills.

2. Dolphins: Dolphins may love humans just as much as humans love dolphins. The highly collaborative marine mammal is also incredibly intelligent and communicative and may actually be the second-smartest animal in the world, just after humans. Their brains are 4-5 times larger than other animals’ brains who have similar sized bodies. They also have a well developed neocortex which helps them process emotion, recognize themselves in a mirror, demonstrate an ability for cultural learning, and understand abstract concepts.

3. Pigeons: Although they’re often associated with dirty, crowded urban environments, pigeons are productive animals with high intelligence. They have highly developed memories, recognize themselves in a mirror, and can identify even subtle differences between different objects.

4. Pigs: Pigs are known to compensate for their mud-slinging, trough-eating ways by demonstrating high intelligence, but did you know just how smart pigs are? They’re very social and even emotional animals that can "play" computer and video games at least as well as chimpanzees. They have an excellent sense of direction and learn from each other, when they’re not trying to trick each other.

5. Rats: Rats may be one of the most abhorred creatures on Earth, but they’re still pretty smart and very resourceful. Rats are extremely adaptable and can almost always find an escape route, which is why they’re so resilient.

6. Squirrels: A slightly cuter version of the rat is the squirrel, another cunning rodent. Squirrels sometimes trick spying animals by pretending to hide their food in one spot, and then really finding a safer place for it when no one’s watching. After months have passed, squirrels can remember the exact place they stored their food, sometimes using clues to help themselves.

7. Crows: Crows may have annoying calls and scare away other, more attractive birds, but they’re so smart that even humans could learn something from them. Crows are very resourceful animals that turn all kinds of objects into usable tools for getting food from hard-to-reach places. They also have great respect for their elders, and watch older birds when they want to learn a new skill.

8. Bees: Bees have shown scientists that they are very in tune with the natural world, not just including pollinating flowers. They use the sun for direction, are punctual, and also have the ability to learn colors, sounds and even exact places. And if you’ve ever noticed a bee’s seemingly erratic flying pattern, you’ve actually watched it communicate to other bees the specifics of the food they’re finding.

9. Dogs: Scientists are still discovering just how smart dogs are. They’ve already proven to be loyal, good communicators and may have decent memory, and now scientists believe that dogs may have the ability to understand someone else’s point of view. Through tests, dogs have also proven to understand concepts and form real perceptions of things.

10. Elephants: Elephants are widely regarded as smart, efficient animals that use tools, groom themselves, and have even inspired robotics. A new robotic arm was modeled after an elephant’s trunk, which can pick up nearly any type of object and seamlessly move it and use it as needed. Elephants also have large brains — weighing around 5 kilos — and use objects to protect themselves, either as weapons or to intimidate their attackers.

Keeping Your Dog Safe on Your Vacation

2010-04-27T23:23:00.000-07:00

Being able to take a vacation is a treat for most people. It is even more of a treat for your dog. It is rare that your pet will be able to get out of the same area and explore new regions of the world that he has never seen before. However, keeping your pet safe while taking a vacation is very important. Planning ahead for any potential problems can keep everyone happy, your dog safe, and your vacation fun. There are steps that can be taken to ensure this is taken care of. Making sure that your dog is in perfect healthy and fit for travel is at the top of the list of things you need to do before leaving.

Any lengthy trips can mean a lot of travel. If you plan on traveling by car, there are fewer issues that can arise, but it is still good to be prepared. Making sure that your dog is up to date on all of his shots and vaccinations will prevent the possibility of him contracting a disease while he is with you on vacation. It is also good in case you need it for proof of vaccination. In order for a pet to travel by plane a recent update in their vaccinations is needed upon boarding. Having this certification performed no more than two weeks before traveling is needed if you are taking your pet out of the country.

Other ways to ensure your dogs' health and well being on a vacation trip is to make sure that you travel safe. Do not leave your pet in the back of a pick-up truck during the trip as he can be injured if you need to stop suddenly, or if you get into an accident. Also, a dog can jump out of the back of the truck if they are left in the back for too long. Keeping your pet in the back seat of a car is a good idea, but make sure that your pooch has an empty stomach before you leave. Feeding your pet just before, or during the trip can lead to car sickness. However, keeping a bottle of water around is a very good idea. It is important that your dog has plenty of water while they are traveling.

A bored dog can become a distraction for a driver, making him rather dangerous to have in the car. It is very important to keep your dog well entertained during the trip. Stopping every so often to stretch your own legs, as well as to let your bridled buddy out to go to the bathroom, can give you an excuse to play a game with your pooch and make the remainder of his trip as enthusiastic as possible. It is also a smart idea to keep a few of his favorite toys and plenty of tasty treats on hand to keep his mind busy. This will help ease his boredom and make him a little easier to have in the vehicle.

If your dog does not particularly care for car rides, you may need to have dog crates for your pet to stay in while on the road. This will make him a little less of a danger to himself, and to his owners. Make sure that you buckle in the crate to ensure that it does not slide in the vehicle, or can be thrown free of the vehicle in an accident. There are special seat belt attachments for cars and mini-vans that work for this purpose. It is much safer to have your pooch tied in then to be free in the vehicle, where he can be thrown about and receive serious injuries. Simply being prepared for everything that may come can help you keep your pet safe and happy on your vacation.

Article by Kelly Marshall of Oh My Dog Supplies, your top spot for metal dog gates online.

Is Camping With A Dog A Good Idea?

2010-03-31T00:16:00.000-07:00

Anywhere that you go outdoors is completely appropriate for your dog as well, right? While many pet owners believe that as long as they are not going onto someone else's property or indoors where pets are not welcome, that it is completely appropriate to bring their dog along. While this is not always true, taking your dog camping with you is a great idea for many reasons.

Physical Exercise

Dogs need to stay active just as much as humans do. Right now we are facing an obesity epidemic, not just with the human population but with the domesticated dog population as well. More and more pets are becoming overweight and struggling with many of the same health problems that humans face as a result of carrying too much excess fat stores on their body. The best way to combat this and ensure your dog isn't one the unlucky who suffer from obesity is to get them outdoors and moving around on a consistent basis.

Camping trips are excellent sources of physical activity because you are outdoors and have access to a wide variety of recreations. You can take your dog on hikes in the nearby woods or for strolls around the camping site. You may also be able to find them a grassy area to just run around or play fetch and Frisbee. If there is a stream or creek on the campgrounds, your dog may enjoy swimming or splashing around on a hot day as well.

Bonding Time

When you get out in the wilderness with your dog, you will bond with them in ways that just can't happen at home sitting on the couch. Camping offers a lot of uninterrupted time to pet and love on your dog as well as some time to sit and enjoy looking around at the beautiful scenery together.

Of course, all of those physical activities are great for bonding and enjoying one another as well!

Protection

Your dog can also offer an extra source of protection for you and your family. Sleeping outdoors in an area you aren't completely familiar with and around people who you don't really know can present some dangers, though you should look into the safety ahead of time. Dogs can alert you to others walking onto your campsite and provide a real sense of protection when it comes time to sack up for the night.

Training Opportunities

If you have a smaller puppy or a dog that is still being trained on skills such as socializing with others, camping is a great opportunity to challenge their new skills and see how much progress they are making. For instance, a dog that is being trained to stay by your side and not chase after birds, squirrels, and other passing creatures and objects will have tons of opportunity to master this skill in an active campground environment!

There are tons of benefits for your dog if you take them along for a camping adventure! They will enjoy just being outdoors and getting some fresh air, but they will cherish the time with you even more. Dogs live for attention and the positive feedback they get from their owners when they do something right. Taking them on a camping trip rather than leaving them behind will do a world of good for your relationship with them, as long as you select a dog-friendly campsite.

Article by Kelly Marshall of Oh My Dog Supplies, check out our selection of large dog beds online.

How to Choose The Right Dog For You

2010-03-10T17:52:00.000-08:00

So you have decided to get a dog. Now is the time you should decide what is the right dog for you and your family. Do you want a Purebred, Designer, or a Mutt? Do I use a Breeder, Pet Store, Pound/Rescue Shelter? There are so many things to take into consideration when making your choice. Do you have children? Do you have your own home with a nice yard, or do you live in an apartment in the city? Do you have any experience with dogs? These are important questions you should be considering before you make your decision.

If you are looking for a Purebred dog, please investigate the breed you are interested in. Each breed has unique qualities that may or may not be a good fit for you. Lets take a Jack Russell Terrier for example. They are a very intelligent and hyper breed dog that needs a lot of interaction with its owner. This is not the type of dog you would want to leave alone all day long in an apartment. If you have children a great breed would be a Golden Retriever. They have a wonderful deposition, are gentle, and make a great family dog. Another thing to take into consideration is health issues. Many purebred dogs have a predisposition to certain medical conditions and illnesses. So please investigate the breed you are interested in to make sure it is a good fit for your family. The last thing we need is another dog at the shelter looking for a home.

If you decide you want a Purebred, PLEASE use a reputable Breeder. There are many websites today where you can get that information. When you have selected a breeder, go and visit the dog kennels and meet the breeder. See what the kennel conditions are like. Meet the dogs and take notice of their appearance, temperament, and behavior. Ask questions of the breeder about his/her experience. The last thing you want to do is go to a Pet Store to purchase a puppy. Most (but not all) of these poor animals come from Puppy Mills. I am sure you have either read or heard what the conditions of most of these places are like. Why they are aloud to exist is beyond me. (sorry just my opinion)

Lets look at getting a dog from the pound/rescue shelter. Believe it or not, there are thousands of poor dogs looking for good homes. You would be surprised at the Purebred dogs at shelters. With hard economic times the way they are, many people have had to give their beloved pet to a shelter because they could not afford to care for it anymore. Some have lost their homes and could not bring their pet to their new apartment. Others have gone and purchase a Purebred dog that was the wrong fit for their family and decided they did not want it anymore. What I am trying to get at is there are thousands of great homeless dogs available for adoption that would be a perfect dog for your family. There is nothing wrong with most of these dogs. So please make sure you take what I have said into consideration when deciding which is the right dog for you.

About The Author:
Barbara Young - I am an avid animal lover. Dogs are my passion. I wanted to promote good products and information to try and help these wonderful animals. I am not a Titled Dog Professional, however I do have over 50 years experience owning dogs. To help me get the word out I created a website called http://www.busterscaninesupplyoutlet.com. I have a great Links Page to assist you with choosing the proper pet for you and your family. After you have chosen the right pet, I can assist you with quality products.

The Harsh Coldness of Wintertime and Your Family Dog

2010-02-24T18:15:00.000-08:00

You love your family dog ; you take care of it, while providing the food and water it needs as well as a place to sleep. This article will help you deal with the harsh coldness of wintertime and your family dog.

The Family Housedog

When it comes to the family housedog and wintertime, you need to make sure that the dog still gets the exercise it needs daily. Continue taking the dog for a walk or allowing the dog to go outside. Dog get use to and then depend upon their routines. They will not really understand why it is too cold to go outside. Besides, many dogs thoroughly enjoy going outside while the wind is crisp and clean with just the right tingle of coolness in the air that makes them feel frisky and free. In fact, you may be surprised to find that your family dog really likes getting outside and playing in the snow.

Dogs can be so very entertaining while playing in snow. However, some dogs may want to have nothing to do with snow for some reason or another. Nevertheless, while your dog is outside, provided it is a dog that has no natural breeding for extremely fridge climates, you should consider protective dog clothes for your indoor family dog. For instance, you can help your dog stay warm by retaining its natural body heat, while wearing sweaters, sweatshirts, jackets, hoodies, scarves, hats and boots as well as winterized windproof raincoats with fleece linings.

The Family Backyard Dog

When it comes to the family backyard dog and wintertime, you need to ensure that the doghouse is steady and secure in an area sheltered from the winds. It should be elevated in structure and sound enough to withstand wind, rain and snow. You should have an insulated doghouse or take the time to add clean straw for insulation. You will need to replace the straw insulation and bedding regularly. This is because the comings and goings of your dog will get the straw insulation and bedding wet and dirty.

If there is snow, you should shovel the snow from around it well enough that the dog can get to its bathroom area. Perhaps, allowing the dog to run freely in the backyard to enjoy the snow, while you are clearing its area and replacing the straw in the doghouse. Provide your dog with plenty of lukewarm water as he or she will need plenty during this time. If temperatures become intolerably cold, bring your backyard dog into the garage, carport or even the house, if you feel it is safe to do so. You may also consider a doghouse warmer to keep your dog warm in the backyard during wintertime.

Dogs Walking on Ice and Snow Melting Products

Ice and salt will accumulate between the toes of your dog whenever it spends any time walking on such surfaces and treated surfaces. You must either protect their feet from the side effects of ice, salt or chemical snow and ice removers. You can do this by training your dog to wear boots to avoid the problem. You can also apply dog paw wax or make sure to wipe his or her paws each time he or she goes in and out.

Article by Kelly Marshall of Oh My Dog Supplies, check out our cute dog coats selection online.

Study Says: Cat Owners Smarter Than Dog Owners

2010-02-12T06:54:00.000-08:00

Just when you thought that old "cat lady" cliche was an urban myth comes word from the Veterinary Record journal that cat owners tend to be older and female. But on the upside the same study showed cat owners are smarter.

The research done by the U.K.’s University of Bristol revealed cat owners were more likely to be college graduates than dog owners. The study, which compiled data from almost 3 thousand people, asked about their education, pets and where they lived.

Dr. Jane Murray led the study and said "cats require less time per day than dogs, so they are more popular with educated people who work late and have long commutes."

Murray said the higher intelligence of cat owners isn’t exactly directly related to the feline mystique, rather pet owners with more education work longer hours. The cats fit into their lifestyles since they don’t have to be walked like their canine counterparts.

But dog owners need not feel “dumbed- down”, yet another study showed dogs themselves were smarter than cats.

Animal Radio® is the “most-listened-to” animal programming in the U.S.; on 95 AM-FM radio stations including Los Angeles’ KOST 103.5 FM and XM Satellite Radio. Internet savvy folks can listen online anytime by logging onto http://AnimalRadio.com.

How to Stop a Dog from Chewing

2010-01-24T18:30:00.000-08:00

The act of chewing seems to be a matter of individual preference among dogs: some have an innate desire to chew as a pleasurable activity in itself, and some seem to have no need to chew whatsoever unless they’re driven to it out of sheer boredom. In any case, when chewing is destructive - it's a problem that NEEDS to be address quickly.

The phrase “destructive chewing” may sound redundant, because – by its very nature! – all chewing is destructive. Your dog has strong jaws full of sharp, pointy teeth: just about anything she starts to chew on is probably going to show the effects of it inside of a minute. So just to clarify, when I use the phrase “destructive chewing”, I’m referring to inappropriate chewing: the kind of chewing that’s focused on your own possessions and household items, instead of on your dog’s own designated toys and chews.

The 3 Main Reasons Why Dogs Chew:

1. Most dogs have a natural desire to chew. It’s fun, it passes the time, and it’s a self-rewarding, self-reinforcing activity (for example, if she’s chewing on something that tastes good.)

2. Chewing provides a nervous, bored, or lonely dog with an outlet for her emotions. To an anxious dog, the repetitive act of chewing is soothing – it’s the doggie equivalent of comfort food.

3. Under exercised dogs often use chewing as a way of burning up nervous energy and giving themselves something to do.

6 Ways to Prevent Destructive Chewing

Dogs are perfectly capable of learning not to chew your stuff – you just have to put in a little effort first, that’s all.

1. Doggy-Proofing: Take control of the situation: manage your own possessions. Your first step should be to dog-proof your home. Even if you have the best-behaved dog in the world, there’s still no reason to test her self-control – after all, dogs explore the world with their mouths.

Dog-proofing your home means taking whatever you don’t want to end up in her mouth, and making it unavailable. Consider her size and agility when deciding whether something’s out of reach: can she jump? Can she climb, or leap onto something else to reach the desired object? How tall is she when standing on her back legs

Common targets in the home include books, eyewear, clothing, shoes, garbage, and small crunchy appliances like cameras, cell phones, and remote controls.

It should go without saying that all food needs to be put securely away: don’t leave snacks on low tables (or even countertops – you’d be surprised how acrobatic she can be when there’s food at stake!), put all food into containers or the pantry. Rinse your dirty plates clean of any food scraps before leaving them by the sink.

2. Prevention: Prevent her from learning the joys of illegal chewing. The more times she manages to snatch a jawful of a forbidden substance – a chair-leg, a pillow, a running shoe – the more readily she’ll target those items in future. If you can prevent her from chewing your stuff in the first place, it’s a lot easier for her to understand what you expect of her. Practically speaking, this means confining her in a dog-proofed area until you’re confident of her understanding of the house rules.

3. Rule Setting: Don’t set her up for failure by blurring the boundaries between her stuff (OK to chew) and your stuff (not OK to chew). Don’t offer your dog cast-off clothes, shoes, or towels to chew and play with: realistically, you can’t possibly expect her to be able to tell the difference between your current shoes and the one she’s got in her mouth that you gave her five minutes ago.

4. Provision: Provide her with lots of tasty alternatives to your stuff. If her environment is relatively barren of attractive, appropriate chewing objects, you can hardly blame her for targeting your possessions. Remember, most dogs need to chew; if she’s an adolescent (under three years) or a puppy (under one year), her needs will be even more pronounced. Go on a toy and chew shopping spree, then give her two or three to play with at a time. Rotating the available toys every few days will keep things novel and interesting for her.

5. Supervision: Spend lots of time in active supervision. Yes, it might be easier for you to just keep her penned up in her dog crates, run, or the yard – but that’s boring and horrible for her, and hardly much fun for you either (if you wanted a pet that you don’t need to interact with, you’d have got a goldfish, right?) She can’t learn what you expect of her if she’s spending all her time boxed up in the dog-proof zone: she needs the opportunity to explore the boundaries of your expectations, so she can understand what’s appropriate and what’s not.

6. The Switcheroo: When you catch her chewing something inappropriate, interrupt her by making a loud noise: clap your hands or make an “Ah-ah-aaaah!” noise. Then, immediately hand her a tasty and dog-appropriate alternative (a rawhide bone or other chew toy); as soon as her jaws close around it, praise her lavishly. There is no better way to get your dog to understand that chewing “her” toys equals praise from you, but everything else equals trouble.

Maintain a Positive Attitude

Above all, remember to keep your expectations realistic. You’re not perfect, and neither is your dog: there’s likely to be at least one incident where a cherished item is damaged by her curiosity.

Particularly in the early stages of your relationship, she’s still learning the ropes: it’ll take awhile before she’s completely reliable (and even then, if she’s left by herself for too long or feels neglected, she may choose your stuff over hers to occupy her time and jaws with.) Remember to give her time to learn the rules, and plenty of ‘you-time’ to help her learn faster – and don’t forget to take precautions and keep things out of reach until she’s got the hang of the chewing rules!

If you REALLY want to end your dog's excessive chewing problem, you NEED to establish yourself as the Alpha Dog of the house. To discover the FASTEST way to accomplish Alpha Dog status, check out the step by step tutorial at www.Dog-Training-Works.com. There, you'll learn how to finally get your dog to listen to you and follow your command the first time around. Check it out here!

Jason Ellis has been helping people train their dogs and newborn puppies for years. His expertise deals with applying proven, effective techniques that train your dog to be the obedient companion you've always wanted in a matter of WEEKS. You can find Jason's complete dog training course at http://www.Dog-Training-Works.com

Privacy Policy

2010-01-09T23:18:00.000-08:00

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Necessity Of Good Nourishment For Your Dog

2010-01-07T20:05:00.000-08:00

Good nutrition is a primary necessary for your dog. It influences their health and long life by contribution a vital balance of proteins, fats, complex carbohydrates and the draw nutrients and minerals their bodies must for growth, fix and maintains of sound resistant system.

Nutrition is a composite and essential part of your dog’s talent to think plainly, inferior strain levels and create soother activities.

To think takes so much force. Dogs mixed up in a training program, use wonderful intellectual power focusing on the responsibilities existing to them. If your dog begins with minimum nutrition, they become tired, anxious or hyper active when asked to carry out the simplest of tasks. They cannot focus and loss attention after a short time or become puzzled. If the dog is frequently asked to do something they cannot realize, uncertainty can guide to a hostile form of acting out.

Prestige undertaking dogs, the nonpareil organization I beholding at the dog’s nourishment. I do operation from the inside foreign. Job becomes fruitless if the fundamental basis owing to the activities is not distorted. Hyper, distracted further exterior of direct dogs recurrently are eating foods with sterling levels of cornflakes foods alike now wheat, corn, and corn meal.

Aggressive dogs eat chuck containing upper levels of variant spring protein. countless of these proteins are imperfect derbies of amino acids which win not offer befitting rack further repair of tension fiber and cell tissue.

Shy further haggard dogs get done not digest their foods positively at undivided besides oftentimes suffer from intestinal complications such because diarrhea. Their coats are usually ever desert again shed heavily.

One drawing near to dare the foods you are feeding is to permeate the ration mastery humidify as about 30 toilet paper. If legitimate swells significance size and becomes mushy, evident is primarily cereal.

Are you dog’s stools oftentimes softhearted and hospitable or is the grisly gassy? They are not digesting the mess properly.

By looking at their food, you leave carry out more to succor bill their behavior, because in fact as, hype to their health and longevity. Dash Abundance offers the cool society of larder now unbroken dogs concerned. The proteins are score besides digest easily.

The carbohydrates are streak also wind up not temperament curiosity wearisome sugars effectual life swings of highs besides depressed behaviors. The Proboscis influence the menu tally also digest additional easily, which is not characteristic follow through for the weird or throw dogs, but ensures faultless dogs are recipient the cuisine they appetite from food.

Pet Health Home Remedies & Save Vet Bills

2010-01-05T20:03:00.000-08:00

In his website, Dr. Andrew Jones, who has practiced Veterinary Medecine for over 17 years, presents, firtly, "Hoochie", his beloved dog died young at 8 years old. He informs people that his dog had the ideal life, he was given a ton of attention, fed only Veterinary approved foods, three times exercises daily. All the vaccines had been given to "Hoochie".

Dr. Andrew now is "crying" that he might have contributed to his death, because he was believing ONLY in conventional veterinary medicine.

Over the past few years, Alternative Pet Health Care has grown. but the truth is that Veterinarians have STRONGLY discouraged pet owners from treating their pets outside of the Vet Clinic.

The entire Pet Health Industry has a vested interest in discrediting alternative medicines which can safely, naturally and effectively allow pet owners to Heal their Dogs, Cats and all other familiar animals at home and save Vet Bills.

"Veterinary Secrets Revealed" Guide of 480 Pages (Dr. Andrew Jones) for Pet Health Home Remedies.

From the death of his dog, Dr. Andrew Jones, began to read, to research, to ask Vet Colleagues and pet owners until he decided to write a book and published it in May of 2004. It is called "Veterinary Secrets Revealed". In Spring 2009, he released a second edition of this book because of its success.

Easily Care For Your Pet At Home : Treat Illnesses Confidently And Competently, Using Simple Techniques And Inexpensive Natural Ingredients...

Veterinary Secrets Revealed Guide allows dog and cat (and familiar pets) owners to Pet Health Home Remedies And Save Vet Bills from any pet problems as:

- Diseases and Illnesses: as cancer, usually treated with conventional medications that make your pet feel worse rather than better.
- Aliments: as back spasms or arthritis that reduce your pet's ability to enjoy favorite activities.
- Behavior problems : like aggression that can lead to dangerous situations inside and outside home.

The Guide "Veterinary Secrets Revealed" provides all the information you need to keep your pet healthy or to improve the health of your sick pet and especially cat health home remedies and dog health home remedies.

And, home remedies pet illness Revealed does it without medical jargon, without complicated procedures, and without an eye on the pharmaceutical companies bottom line.

Final Words?

It's time to Heal Your Dog Or Cat At Home And Save Vet Bills using Veterinary Secrets Revealed Guide which is indispensable, helpful, containing wealth of information to help every pet owner to take care and treat their animals naturally and keep them as healthy as their owner.

To Pet Health Home Remedies And Save Vet Bills, I highly recommend to read more about Dr. Andrew Jones 'Veterinary Secrets Revealed' Guide. http://url-ok.com/cca0f3

Counting Calories: A Simple Way To Keep Your Pet Healthy

2009-12-06T20:03:00.000-08:00

We know that obesity is a growing epidemic in the United States. Thirty percent of American adults – that's 60 million people – are obese. But there's another statistic that is even more startling and concerning to pet owners and veterinarians: according to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, approximately half of all dogs and cats in the United States are overweight or obese. That's 84 million animals that weigh more than they should for optimal health. Just as with people, obesity in pets is associated with many health risks, including osteoarthritis, Type 2 diabetes, respiratory disorders, hypertension (high blood pressure), heart disease, and many forms of cancer.

What causes obesity in pets? It generally comes down to consuming more calories than the pet needs. According to veterinarian Susan Nelson, assistant professor of clinical sciences at Kansas State University, “Pets are overeating and under-exercising, and they're eating too many high-fat foods and treats.” Dr. Nelson suggests a number of factors to consider when feeding your pet, including paying attention to the nutritional information and calorie content of what your pet eats. While we often think to at least glance at the nutritional information and calorie content marked on our own food, we may not think to do the same for our pets.

Is my pet overweight?

It's relatively easy to determine yourself if your dog or cat is overweight. First, take a look at your pet's ribs. If your animal is a healthy weight, the ribs shouldn't be seen but should be easy to feel. They should be covered with a thin layer of fat – if they are difficult to feel under a large layer of fat, that is a sign your pet is overweight. Next, take a look at the animal's stomach. A sagging stomach, where you can grab a handful of fat, is also a sign of excess weight. Finally, take a look at your pet's general body shape. When looking at the animal from above, you should be able to easily make out a waistline. A dog should be an hourglass shape – broader at the shoulders and hips and narrow at the waist. A broad, flat back is a sign your pet is overweight.

How much should I be feeding my pet?

Figuring out how much you should be feeding your pet is not as straightforward as it may initially seem. Amounts vary based on the type of food, your pet's metabolism, and the amount of exercise it gets. If your pet is a healthy weight, a good place to start is with the amount suggested by the guidelines on the pet food packaging. If your pet is just a bit overweight, look at the guidelines and feed it the amount suggested for its ideal weight, rather than the weight it currently is.

The typical domestic cat should weigh about 10 pounds, and needs about 275 calories per day. Unlike cats, the caloric needs of dogs vary greatly depending on breed – a variance expected when dogs can range in weight from under 5 pounds to over 100. A 10-pound dog needs about 300 calories per day, while a 50-pound dog needs 1,200. Feeding guidelines on your pet's food bag will take into account approximate caloric needs, but it's important to realize that food amounts may change if you change the type of food you're feeding your dog or cat. Since pet foods can vary greatly in fat and calorie content, one cup of Type A food will not necessarily equal one cup of Type B food.

What about treats?

Just as we sometimes don't realize (or don't want to realize!) how many calories snack foods can contribute to our diet, it's easy to forget to consider the number of calories contained in the treats we give our pets. Luckily, it is becoming more common for pet food manufacturers to list nutritional information, including calorie content, on packaged pet treats. Nutrition and calorie information is also often available online, so try visiting the company's website if you can't find what you're looking for on the packaging. It is fine to include treats in your pet's diet, but calories from treats should account for 10% or less of your pet's overall caloric intake.

Hidden Calories

Pets, particularly dogs, can be scavengers. While some dogs are very well-behaved, others go through the trash, beg at the table, and try to help themselves to anything that looks particularly tasty. In households with small children, often one of the first things a pet realizes is that children are an excellent source of table scraps. Everything the child drops – and children drop a lot! - will be devoured by a waiting animal. And it usually doesn't take long for children to discover that feeding their pet is a fun game, leading to even more shared calories. Adults are not completely innocent either – many people feed their pets table scraps, or allow them to eat food that drops on the floor. Rarely do we consider how many extra calories human food is adding to our pet's diet.

A Family Affair

As Dr. Nelson says, “It's important to count calories if your pet is overweight.” If you have a dog or cat that needs to lose a few pounds, counting calories can help you achieve that goal and help your pet stay healthy. But everyone in the family needs to be involved in this process, not just one person. No matter how careful you are about feeding your pet an appropriate diet, it won't be successful if other family members are slipping their beloved pet treats and table scraps. It's important that the entire family realizes the importance of helping their pet maintain a heathy weight. Giving food is a way to show love, but an even better way is to help your pet stay healthy and live a long life as a member of your family.

Matt Papa is a postdoctoral fellow at Washington University School of Medicine. Dog lover and owner of a beautiful German shepherd named Hera, Matt is concerned about problems with obesity in both animals and humans. His medical research interests include obesity treatments and the ways in which humans and animals can work together to maintain a healthy weight. Matt owns a website devoted to best weight loss programs reviews and the latest scientific findings on obesity. He often gives away a Medfast coupon.

Benefits Of Dog Agility Training

2009-11-26T23:55:00.000-08:00

Aside from entertainment purposes, dog agility training makes your dog vigorous and alert. This fun-filled activity even sharpens his mind and teaches him to make his own strategy on how to finish the course efficiently.

Agility training will also allow your dogs to perform obstacles. With this kind of training, dogs can improve coordination through the basic training exercises used to teach jumping and ramp work.

More importantly, you and your dog will build a better bond. This training teamwork nurtures a good communication between the pet owner and the dog which improves their working relationship.

In line with that, there are different kinds of dog agility equipment such as dog training crates and dog exercise pens that will complete your dog's obstacle training course. Every piece of equipment provides excellent improvement to your dog's whole being and attitude.

Below is a list of benefits that you and your dog can get from agility training.

Benefits to Dogs:
º Keep your dog healthy.
º Allow your dog to perform his needed exercise.
º Establishes trust and confidence to you as their friend and owner
º Learning to follow basic obedience and instructions
º Develop flexibility
º Sharpens your dog's mind
º Increases your dog's endurance and confidence
º Develops your dog's speed and accuracy
º Improves his communication skills
º Allows your dog to form his own strategies

Benefits to Pet Owners:
º Keep you in shape, healthy and alert
º Develop flexibility
º Helps to lose unwanted fats and gain muscle
º Increase your perseverance

Indeed, agility training gives your dog a great and exciting bonding time with you and other members of the family. Including it in your daily or weekly activities will surely strengthen your relationship with your dogs.

Review a Boarding Kennel and Get Rewarded!

2009-11-15T23:51:00.000-08:00

Have you and your pet dog or cat found a great boarding kennel or cattery? Have you been wowed by the caring and friendly staff? Blown away from the cleanliness and cool extras of a boarding facility? Then we want to hear from you!

Why not share your experience with other pet owners to help them choose the best accommodations for their pets? Now you can with KennelSeek.com! KennelSeek.com has thousands of boarding kennels and catteries for you to review throughout Canada and the United States. Once you submit your review, as a thank you to our Canadian pet owners, each Canadian will receive 2 Airmiles® Reward Miles!

What is KennelSeek.com? KennelSeek helps you find and book boarding kennels and catteries anywhere in the USA and Canada online for your dogs, cats and other pets. You can quickly check availability, pictures, rates, requirements, and reviews of any kennel or cattery! KennelSeek.com truly allows you to be confident that you are choosing the highest quality of care for your dog, cat or other pet.

Founded in 2008, KennelSeek.com enables boarding kennel & cattery operators to grow their business by accepting real-time reservations and reservation requests from millions of pet owners online.

Holiday Tips for Pet Owners

2009-11-05T21:23:00.000-08:00

The holiday season is often the most joyous time of the year. However, joy can turn to tragedy if simple precautions are not taken to ensure the safety of your pets.

“Pets are curious by nature,” said Dr. Steve Hansen, a board-certified veterinary toxicologist and senior vice president of The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). Hansen, whose department also includes the ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control Center, asks pet parents to be mindful of their pets this holiday season.

“Thinking about your home from your pet’s point of view will help ensure everyone has happy and safe holidays,” Hansen said. “Pets have the ability to get into everything, especially during the holidays when there is more to see and do.”

Simple holiday traditions, such as trimming the tree and decorating the house, can pose potential problems to pets if not monitored carefully.

Dr. Leon Robbins, doctor of veterinary medicine at Grandview Animal Hospital near Winston-Salem, NC, warned that much like toddlers, pets are attracted to bright lights, shining ornaments and dangling tinsel.

“Many holiday decorations are hazardous to pets,” said Robbins. “Try to use big, pet-friendly ornaments and keep the ornaments, as well as the lights, out of a pet’s reach.”

The most common pet-related emergency that occurs over the holidays is the consumption of human pharmaceuticals. Dr. Hansen said that many people keep their medications in daily pill minders, their luggage or even leave it lying out when staying with family or friends.

“All prescription and non-prescription drugs should be safely stored,” Hansen said. “Even in small doses, human medications can be potentially lethal to pets.”

Food is the culprit for the second most common holiday pet emergency. According to Dr. Robbins, pets should be kept on a normal diet, as it will alleviate digestive problems.

“If there is food left over, don’t give it to your pet as a holiday treat,” said Robbins. “Instead give baby carrots, green beans or broccoli as treats.”

To ensure a happy and safe holiday season for you and your pets, (Your Company’s Name) recommends that pet owners be cautious of the following:

Dark and baker’s chocolate. While milk chocolate is not poisonous, it will cause your pet to have an upset stomach. On the other hand, dark chocolate and baker’s chocolate contain high levels of theobromine and caffeine. Animals are extremely sensitive to both and ingesting either type of chocolate could be fatal.

Xylitol. This sugar substitute causes a dog’s blood sugar to drop quickly. This poisoning can be treated, but causes liver failure if not treated properly.

Macadamia nuts. Dogs experience severe weakness in their back legs, appearing paralyzed, after ingesting macadamia nuts. Dogs usually recover from this condition within three days.

Avocados. Avocados pose a serious threat to birds. Avocados cause respiratory distress in birds, causing fluid to build up in their lungs.

Bread Dough. When bread dough is ingested it continues to rise, causing an intestinal blockage.

If your pet ingests any potentially harmful product, call your vet or a local emergency animal hospital immediately.

At Home Pet Sitters offers pet owners these helpful hints to keep pets out of danger, while still enjoying the food, fun and festivities that accompany the holidays.

At Home Pet Sitters offers pet sitting, dog walking, overnight pet sitting, pet taxi and more. Bonded and insured pet sitters in Savannah, GA. Accredited members of Pet Sitters International. For more information, please visit our website: www.athomepetsitters.net

New Dry Paws™ Training and Floor Protection Pads

2009-11-04T23:00:00.000-08:00

Dry Paws is now available at Mid West Homes for Pets, the leading provider of pet training products in the industry. For pet owners who are very meticulous in caring for their pets, Dry Paws is the perfect product to have. It can lock away bacteria and moisture quickly because of its absorbent polymer and quilted design. While training pets to make them completely housebroken, it is important to keep them clean and healthy.

The training pads of Dry Paws are a great help to house break a new pet. It is designed to be a pet's comfort zone, a place where he can eliminate during times when the pet owner cannot be available to let them out. This product is not also just for the newly introduced pets in the house. It can also be a perfect alternative for older pets that already are having a hard time eliminating outside or are unable to hold off eliminating long enough to go outside.

The product is also a great help for pet owners who live in apartments or homes that has limited outdoor areas to train their pets properly.

Dry Paws training and floor protection pads can be available in 7 count, 14 count large, 14 count, 30 count, and 50 count with different master pack dimensions and essentially the same sizes except for 14 count large.

Here are the different sizes of Dry Paws for shopping reference:

7 Count- Dry Paws™ Training and Floor Protection Pads
Model Number: PP07
1-30 lbs.
Size: 23 5/8 x 17 3/4
Weight: 1 lb.
Master UPC: 10027773009525
UPC: 02777300952
Master Pack Dimensions- 16 1/8L x 12 1/4W x 8H

14 Count Large- Dry Paws™ Training and Floor Protection Pads
Model Number: PPL14
1-160 lbs.
Size: 29.5 x 23 5/8
Weight: 1 lb.
Master UPC: 10027773009563
UPC: 027773009566
Master Pack Dimensions- 18 1/8L x 11 1/4W x 10 5/8H

14 Count- Dry Paws™ Training and Floor Protection Pads
Model Number: PPS14
1-30 lbs.
Size: 23 5/8 x 17 3/4
Weight: 1 lb.
Master UPC: 10027773009532
UPC: 02777300953
Master Pack Dimensions- 18 1/8L x 8 1/4W x 10 5/8H

30 Count- Dry Paws™ Training and Floor Protection Pads
Model Number: PPS30
1-30 lbs.
Size: 23 5/8 x 17 3/4
Weight: 1 lb.
Master UPC: 10027773009549
UPC: 027773009542
Master Pack Dimensions- 18 1/8L x 10 5/8W x 16 1/8H

50 Count- Dry Paws™ Training and Floor Protection Pads
Model Number: PPS50
1-30 lbs.
Size: 23 5/8 x 17 3/4
Weight: 1 lb.
Master UPC: 10027773009556
UPC: 027773009559
Master Pack Dimensions- 24L x 12W x 18 1/8H

Pet owners who are interested can go to www.midwesthomes4pets.com for more information about the prices and how to shop online for this product. They can also check their local Pet Stores or feel free to use the online store locator to find a Midwest Homes for Pets Retailer nearest their area. Please visit www.midwesthomes4pets.com for more information regarding training and housebreaking pets.

MidWest Homes 4 Pets, a division of MidWest Metal Company since 1921
Address: 4211 East Jackson Street, Muncie, Indiana 47303
Phone: 765-289-3355
Fax: 765-289-6524
Website: http://www.midwesthomes4pets.com

Did You Know Pharaohs Had Pet Dogs?

2009-10-25T21:08:00.000-07:00

If you ask a cat (or a dedicated cat person), you're likely to be summarily informed there's nothing at all mysterious about dogs. Cats have, however, been known to prevaricate for reasons known only to cats. That's not to say that cat people share the same proclivity.

Dogs do have their mysteries -- some of the more interesting ones revolve around the origins of different breeds. With the science of DNA now available, those questions are beginning to be answered, and more found to be asked, but DNA identification is still a relatively infantile technology and the databases available for reference have not yet become broad enough to arrive at definitive answers to many of our questions about where our dogs' true origins lie. In 2004, when researchers announced the determination of the “14 ancient breeds” they were working with DNA from only 85 of the more common breeds -- out of all the hundreds of known breeds.

One of the most intriguing mysteries revolves around the Pharaoh Hound, an elegant hunting hound that closely resembles the Egyptian god of the dead, Anubis. Ironically, the breed has often been characterized as being “as clean as a cat.”

For generations, it has been believed that the Pharaoh Hound is an ancient breed dating back to the time of the pharaohs. Images of dogs closely resembling the modern Pharaoh Hound found in Egyptian tombs and glyphs have seemed to support this belief. Egyptian artisans depicted dogs with the characteristic long, narrow nose, the large, pointed ears, the attentive stance, narrow waist and deep chest of the modern Pharaoh Hound. The tomb of Antefa II, dated at about 2300 BC is graced with a particularly striking drawing.

But now we have evidence that changes this supposition. And Anubis wasn't known as the “hound god,” but as the jackal god.

The dog images from ancient Egypt are now believed to be of a truly ancient and now extinct breed, the Tesem. Our Pharaoh Hound appears to be a comparatively modern breed whose origins can be traced back to Malta and the Ibizan Hound, whose origins are ancient, most likely descended from the Tesem, brought by the Phoenicians around 645 BC to the island of Eivissa (that's EIvissa, not ELvissa, home of the Ibizan sighthound, not Elvis sightings).

In spite of significant evidence to the contrary some breed clubs, breeders, registries and commentators at the most prestigious dog shows in the world continue to claim the Pharaoh Hound that we know today is one and the same breed portrayed thousands of years ago as a companion and hunting partner to the pharaohs. It is not unusual to read or hear the breed described as tracing its origins back to 5,000 BC, becoming known to the Mediterranean world after the Romans invaded Egypt two millennia ago and the Phoenician traders transported them to Malta and the Balearic Isles where they were prized for hunting small game.

We even “know” that the boy pharaoh, Tutenkhamen, owned one named Abuwitiyuw. Maybe that's why we call them Pharaoh Hounds? Problem is, the evidence now points to the Ibizan being the older breed with the Pharaoh Hound being a later offshoot of the Ibizan rather than the other way around.

In Malta, the breed is known by the name Kelb tal-Fenek and is considered an indigenous breed to the island, the national dog of Malta. The first recorded mention of the hunting dog of Malta was written in 1647 by the Vice Chancellor of the Order of St. John (more familiar as the Knights of Malta): “There are dogs called 'Cernechi' esteemed for the hunting of rabbits , and as far as France are in demand primarily for stony, mountainous and steep locations.” “Cernechi” or “Cirnechi” translates literally to “Rabbit Dog.” Ironically, the Kelb tal-Fenek -- the Cernechi -- didn't become known as the Pharaoh Hound until the mid 20th century, when Dr. Eugen Seiferle dubbed the group of similar dogs “pharaonenhunde.” This designation further confuses the question as to whether the original rabbit dog of Malta was what we now call the Pharaoh Hound or better fit the standard of the Ibizan. Or perhaps another variant breed.

And the mystery and romance of the Pharaoh Hound continues. Which to choose to believe? Glyphs and drawings, myths and legends from ages past or hypothesis supported by fairly compelling although admittedly incomplete scientific evidence.

Provided by Tom Figler of www.pet-super-store.com: find great deals on GPS Tracking Collars such as Garmin Tracking Collars.

Dog Sweaters - Warm And Cozy

2009-09-28T19:50:00.000-07:00

Just as winters can be harsh for us, in the same manner winters can be severe and chilly for pets as well. Even if they are at home or in their dog kennels , and to make them feel warm dog sweaters are available, making them feel cozy and warm. Dog apparels are available for all seasons, right from cool, light summer wear to floral prints and even thick warm jackets and woolen wears to beat the cold. These sweaters are so cute and comfortable for dogs and are easily available as pets are now found in almost every house these days.

Dog sweaters are needed to protect them from cold and any kind of winter diseases; if your pet is taken care of properly he will never fall sick during winter. Not only sweaters but other accessories are also available like socks, caps, shoes, ponchos, scarves, etc. to make your dog look more beautiful and even help them to be warm and fit during the winters.

It is necessary to protect your puppy with more care because they are more immune to cold and can fall sick very fast. Dog sweaters for puppies are a must and they should also be covered with other accessories as well. These sweaters are available in abundance in various sizes and colors. The colors range from whites, black, blue, pinks lovely mauves and the list goes on and on. The sizes of the dog sweaters are no issue at all since they are readily available in all sizes and can be easily stitched if there is a mismatch of size. A popular model is the Princess Sweater with Organza Ribbon.

Sweaters are also available in various patterns and designs like dotted, striped, textured, multicolor, single color and even have pockets in them that really make them look very smart and cute. The designs and patterns on the sweaters do match with the occasion or festival also, like the sweater might have a Christmas tree or Santa Claus, Halloween, etc. The All American Handmade Patriotic Sweater has design to depict patriotism and various other designs to grace the festivity occasion. Even for family functions there are dog sweaters available, these sweaters range from all prices to suit all classes of people. It is fun to see the pups dress up in sweaters of various designs and colors to match and grace each and every occasion.

Dog sweaters are available for extreme cold season to early winters. These sweaters are available as machine made or hand knitted. Some of the dog sweaters, such as the Marabou Glamour Sweater are also made of fur to make the dog look more cozy and fluffy. For your female dog, sweaters are also made of lace and frills to make them look more fancy and trendy. They are designed in such a way with matching colors and fabrics that make the sweaters look really cute and just appropriate.

To make the dog look more attractive they can have matching socks, shoes or scarves that are easily available in the market. Some sweaters have attached hoods and some have separate hats or caps.

Ways to Care For Your Pet For Free

2009-09-11T01:35:00.000-07:00

Having a pet can be one of the most enjoyable experiences in life. They all have their own unique personalities and qualities that make them special. However, there are so many responsibilities that you have to consider when owning a pet. For one, caring for your pet is a large responsibility and can be quite expensive, especially if you own a dog or a cat. You have to pay for things like food, immunizations, grooming, and the list continues. To minimize the costs that you pay for your pet, have you considered obtaining free pet samples of your favorite products?

Pet samples are a great way for you to help save on the cost of owning a pet. You will find nutritious samples available online that can really help you to provide for your pet. These samples are provided by the leading pet manufacturers, so you know that they are especially safe.

Many of the samples available will include products like pet food. Many times the samples provided can easily allow you to provide enough food for your pet for an entire week. The sample size may actual be the same bag as what you would have gotten at the store. So, this is a great way for you to help minimize the cost of owning your pet.

There are so many people who are looking for ways to reduce expenses as much as they can. This is one way that you can cut back on costs while still providing the same level of care for your pet. It only involves you thinking outside of the box to explore the possibilities available online. Just by simply filling out a form, your pet can enjoy a delicious treat.

Free Pet Samples offers a wide variety of completely free samples that you can get for FREE. Check out top product samples and learn how you can get more for less.

Helping Your Cat Express Its Creativity Through Scratching

2009-08-12T22:22:00.000-07:00

Most cats enjoy scratching, there's no question about it.

And indoor cats are no different. Just because a tree is not available, it does not decrease their desire to "leave a mark on the world" by scratching. From a cat's point of view, chairs, sofas, and even the woodwork can serve as a good substitute. But cat owners often take a different view. They see scratching as a destructive behavior, and seek to redirect or stop it. In many cases, a scratching post can be a good compromise.

But even better, why not help your feline pal create original pieces of art you will be proud to display in your home or office?

Ever since he was a kitten, my cat Henry has always loved to scratch. He soon grew tired of the scratching post I bought him and went on tocreate interesting textures on the living room sofa and chair. I was determined not to have him declawed. So what was the answer?

I remembered hearing that a friend's cat liked to scratch a piece of carpet she had nailed onto the wall. So I went to the surplus store and bought a few pieces of carpet remnants.

It did not take Henry long to catch on. Almost as soon as I nailed the carpet up on the wall, he discovered that he really enjoyed scratching it. He was very pleased that it didn't turn over with him like his old scratching post sometimes did, and he enjoyed working with the
texture.

A few months later, when Henry had nearly scratched the carpet remnant to pieces, I decided to replace it with another strip of carpet. But instead of throwing the scratched carpet away, I decided to put a hanger on it and display it. After all, it looked like a modern piece of fiber art. It had long, fluffy loops of all lengths, and it looked like someone had spent a great deal of time creating it. (Actually they did -- only the "someone" happened to be feline!)

Last summer when I was exhibiting some of my own fiber art at the Bangor Public Library in Bangor, Maine, I decided to include a few pieces of Henry's work. The library patrons enjoyed viewing it, and were surprised to learn that a cat had created it! Within a few
months, Henry and his work were also featured in the Bangor Daily News.

If you would like to help your feline friend express their creativity, all you need are a few nails or screws and a strip of carpet that's at least 5-6 inches across and at least a foot long. Make sure that the carpet does not have loops that are cut, or your cat will only be able
to pull out clumps of fiber, and cannot make the beautiful loop-covered wall hangings he or she would like to create. Nail it securely to the wall, and watch what happens! If your cat needs a little encouragement, you can always rub the carpet remnant with catnip, or spray it with catnip spray.

Who knows what wonderful masterpiece your cat might create!

Anita Louise McCormick is a writer, editor, artist, and Reiki Master. She is also the agent and personal assistant of a very creative cat, Henry the Feline Fiber Artist! You can visit the website Anita created for Henry at http://henrythefelinefiberartist.wordpress.com to read his story, see a few of the wall hangings he created, and view a short video documentary about his work. Anita also has a website about her writing at http://www.angelfire.com/biz/AnitaMcCormick

Cat Playpens
Kitten Playpens

Dog Containment System Importance

2009-08-05T04:54:00.000-07:00

Looking after your beloved dog at all times is your responsibility, and in cases when your canine’s behavior becomes uncontrollable, the use of dog containment system can be very useful. Leaving your dog unattended might cause troubles inside or outside your house. You can crate train your dog or put him in dog crates but it will not give him the freedom to roam around.

Besides pampering your dog, it is equally important to give him the necessary freedom and space where he can play and enjoy the beauty of the outside world while ensuring his safety.

Here are some of benefits of using dog containment devices:

With the help of pet containment systems such as dog exercise pens and dog kennels, leaving your canine alone will no longer be an issue! Dog containment devices can either be wireless, electronic or motorized that are installed in traditional fences or under the ground. They are generally portable and can be set up in a few minutes. Many pet containment systems available in the market these days are battery-operated and comes with a training collar that is placed around the dog’s neck. The collar has a receiver that detects when the dog is getting near the wire. Within this boundary, the collar will give a signal to your canine by discharging static stimulation.

Other systems are wireless and have constant radio signal to create a “safe zone” for your pet. Having said that, the primary benefit of using dog containments is that they have the ability to teach your dog to behave properly and stay only within specific locations. Electronic dog containment is also a lot cheaper than setting up traditional metal or wooden dog fences.

You can also prevent your dog from running away or stepping outside the house if you install dog containment devices. This can be particularly effective for controlling aggressive dogs that can destroy your neighbor’s property or attack passersby. You can also keep you dog away from valued properties and causing damage to the flowers, shrubs and other things in your garden or backyard. Dogs, especially puppies, are highly prone to getting lost when they venture out. In order to avoid such incidents from happening, dog owners must install dog containment devices.

Different Types of Cat Barrier

2009-07-23T05:45:00.000-07:00

Cats, similar to dogs, are physically active domesticated animals and letting them roam around inside your house without supervision could cause damage and scratches to your beddings and furniture. If you want to prevent that from happening, the use of cat barriers such as cat doors, enclosure or playpen is very helpful to keep your feline friend in a safe and contained area. Such pet containment systems are also a great way to keep your cat away from aggressive dogs and other dangerous stray animals in the neighborhood.

Here are a few types of cat barriers and the many good benefits they can bring to you and your beloved cat:

Cat Doors
Cat barrier, in the form of a cat door, will allow your kitty to enter and exit the house in a safe manner. As you all know, cats are naturally territorial and they immensely enjoy playing inside and outside the house. If you have a small cat door installed specifically for her, it can make the life of your cat easier and convenient. Hence, there’s no more need to exert effort to open the main door at all times to let her out or in.

Cat Flaps
This unique feline door design will let your cat to enter and exit a house on their own without needing you to open the main door from time to time, while providing protection against wind, rain and other harsh elements.

Cat Enclosures
For outdoor use, cat enclosures are very functional to contain your cat in the backyard or the park. More than being a cage, this spacious cat containment system can serve as an outdoor feline barrier where your furry friend can play, run, exercise and rest safely while enjoying the beauty of the outside world.

Cat Playpens
For indoor use, on the other hand, cat playpens and kitten playpens are a great solution. This type of cat barrier provides a comfortable space for your feline pet to stretch out, move around and play inside the house, while preventing her to get in touch with fragile objects such as furniture and other precious decorations. Cat playpen is also ideal to use if you leave your cat home alone.

How to Solve Your Dog's Excessive Barking

2009-07-12T07:05:00.000-07:00

If you are a dog owner, chances are you might be aware how frustrating it is to control your dog’s behavior. Some dogs get too aggressive to the point that they become disturbing and irritating to your family and your neighborhood, while others bark excessively for some weird reasons. Many dog owners find themselves clueless and unsure as to what must be done to solve this behavior.

Here are a few tips to help you solve your bestfriend’s nuisance barking:

The primary thing you need to check is if you’re giving your k9 all the things and necessities he needs. Barking is a natural behavior among dogs and they usually bark to communicate something with you. If their needs are not being met, the barking might be a cry or signal that he longs for your care and assistance. Always ensure that you give them the right amount of food and water everyday. You also have to clean after your dog.

Dogs could be barking because of irritation. Flea or tick infestations and skin allergies can cause your dog to make excessive noise. Taking your dog to a veterinarian can help you determine whether or not he is healthy and free from any canine diseases.

If your beloved pet barks a great deal, you might observe that they are either bored or energetic. Don’t let your dog be confined inside your house, instead, take him outside where he can play and interact with other dogs as often as you can. You can also train him using tools such as dog training crates and dog exercise pens. A dog that is properly trained to socialize with people and other animals will not bark excessively. Training your dog is a great way to improve his physical and mental stimulation. Dogs naturally enjoy the outdoor and like to experience new things. The barking problem may be solved when the dog is taken on regular walks.

By and large, dogs bark for they beg for a little attention. So don’t be rude. Never yell, hit or scold your dog when they are barking. These kinds of reaction can aggravate your k9’s anxiety. If your dog barks because he is stressed or lonely then your yelling is just going to confuse and hurt him.

Along with these behavior modification methods, you may also try using some gadgets that are designed to address the barking. You can buy bark control collar and other training collar equipment that will quickly train your canine to stop his nuisance barking.

Dog Leash Training

2009-06-17T22:37:00.000-07:00

Dogs walk faster than humans can. Naturally, if you put them on a leash, they'll start pulling to get to whatever they're looking at faster. A dog, having what is called an opposition reflex, would lean on a pressure it feels on its neck and chest. Understanding this makes it clear that if you want to have a leisurely walk with your dog on a leash, you must begin dog leash training while your pet is still a few weeks-old puppy.

Begin by allowing your dog time to get used to the collar around his neck. When you put it on for the first time, your puppy will scratch, roll around or try to get it off. Make sure you fasten the collar securely and don't remove it when the dog is trying to. When he finally calmed down and shows signs of being comfortable with it, you can remove the collar for a short while. This teaches the dog two important things: first, that the collar won't come off when he wants it so he'd best get used to it and second, the collar is not a permanent attachment. Check the collar regularly to make sure it isn't too tight. Your dog grows in size and you need to adjust the collar regularly.

When the dog is ready, attach a leash to the collar and allow the dog time to adjust to the leash. Allot a few minutes every day to for leash training with your puppy and have some treats handy. Your goal is to be able to walk around with your dog on a leash without him pulling at the other end. This means you should be able to stand still with your dog and walk around at your pace, not his.

To get started, fasten the collar securely around your pup's neck and attach the leash. Hold the other end securely. Try and have the dog stand still beside you. When he starts to wander too far and pulls on the leash, call the dog back to your side and reward him with a treat when he does. When he finally is able to stand still beside you for the time you wish to, you can begin walking him around. When he wanders too far to the point of pulling on the leash, call him back to your side. Pull on the leash if needed. When the dog returns to a comfortable distance - walks beside you without pulling on the leash, reward him with a treat.

Do these training exercises with a reward system for several days or weeks or until your dog learns to consistently respect the leash. When your dog is finally able to stand still beside you or walk around your house or backyard with a loose leash, reward your dog with a lot of praise, hugs or pats and some treats. He is ready to be taken out for a walk.

Remember that to condition your dog to respect the leash, focus on allowing your dog to progress forward when the leash is loose. If you allow your pet to proceed forward when the leash is tight, you're teaching him to pull.

Pet Safety for Traveling in the Car

2009-06-15T01:09:00.000-07:00

1. Preparation: Don't wait for the last minute! When you put it all together at the last minute that creates more anxiety and tension for your dog as well as you! When you are prepared your dog will have a more normal experience. If you planning to make hotel reservations there many pet-friendly hotels to choose from.

2. Car Safety: Items to consider having depending on your pet's size and ability to ride in the car staying safe for both them, passengers and you: Pet Carriers, Car Barriers, Car Seats, Car Seat Belts. If you need to order any item on line, make sure you do it in plenty of time. If you are planning on going to a local pet store, again do it in plenty of time...for if they don't have it and your pressing the clock, the anxiety is already high and you haven't even left for your trip!

3. Take a long walk before driving off! A recently exercised dog will be in a more relaxed state during any long trip.

4. If your pet needs extra calming, instead of drugs from your pet's vet, you may want to consider Lavender Scent. Any health food store has that and will not make him/her disoriented or feel uncertain during the trip.

5. Make sure your dog has access to water – enough to keep hydrated but not full. Bottled water is perfect. If you need feeders there are many to choose from that are effective and very low cost.

6. Don't forget to bring your dog's food, favorite toy and blanket to keep them happy and balanced.

7. Make sure your dog has clear and effective identification. Be sure that the identification has your contact information while you are still away from home.

8. Put together a doggy first aid kit for the trip. If you are not sure what that may include it's best to call your vet for he or she knows your dog!

9. Always use a leash and stay with your pet at all times. Dogs are very curious and in new places may try to run off and explore. If you have trouble walking your dog any time you may want to consider mastering how to control your dog. If you need help in this area of controlling your dog in public feel free to email TravelinPaws and we can give you additional information.

10. Never ever leave your dog or any other pet or child in a hot car even if you roll the windows down. A car in the sun can reach temperatures of near 200 degrees causing heat stroke and even death to pets & humans left in them.

11. Never leave your dog alone and unattended in his or her carrier. Unfortunately kidnapping of your dog is a very real possibility. You may want to consider a GPS system to ensure your pet's safety.

12. Ensure your dog has the chance to potty every few hours. We have noticed when the owner is calm and relaxed throughout the trip (and that includes the preparation!) the dog will also maintain a calmness. It is common in unfamiliar places like this your dog's regular potty schedule will be interrupted and you don't want any embarrassing issues. If traveling to a theme park check with employees about places setup for your dog to potty in. Most will have areas around the park for you to use.

13. Take a break every hour. This will allow them to not only relieve themselves but keep the circulation on all vital organs. Plus, they will learn by smell that they are going to a different environment. It is important for a dog to experience the different temperatures, smells, and feelings that come with a new environment. This will help make them feel that they are part of the process of moving to a new area. Once the sun goes down, you can go eight hours non-stop!

14. Once you arrive at your hotel, or family/friends home, take your dog for a walk! If you are not sure where to go, ask the pet friendly hotel.

If you are driving to the beach:

1. Know the local laws. Not all beaches allow dogs! If they do, make sure you know if you have to keep them on a leash at all times or not.

2. Sunscreen: it's not just for people. Pups need protection too! Talk with your veterinarian about protective goggles and canine sunblock.

3. Protect your dog from fleas. Sand fleas are abundant!

4. Get a Condition Check on the weather and ocean tides, undercurrents and Sea lice, jellyfish. All of these factors can pose just as much of a threat to dogs as they do to humans. Before you let your dog roam, verify with a lifeguard that the environment is safe.

5. Never let your dog drink the ocean Salt /bay / or lake water! Keep your dog hydrated with fresh water. Salt water can make them sick. Please watch for signs of dehydration. You may be use to being out in the sun and water, but your dog may not. Watch for signs. Sand and heat can make a normal exercise routine more strenuous. Trust your instincts. If something doesn't feel right, call your dog back to rest in a shady spot.

6. Watch them at all times, for you don't want them to eat things that wash ashore, like dead fish, fishing lines, plant life.

7. Be prepard to pick up after your dog! Keep the water and beach area clean for others. Respect goes both ways and it is noticed.

8. When you and your dog are done for the day give him/her a bath with fresh water. Find out if the beach has an area to do exactly that before going back to the car or hotel. If not, find out from the hotel where the best place is. The chemicals and sea water can be harmful to your dogs coat and general well being.

These pet safety tips will help you and your best friend in having a safer, happy and balanced trip. Just remember to stay calm and positive with your dog and everyone will benefit. Stay safe and have an awesome trip!

Choosing The Right House For Your Dog

2009-05-28T23:23:00.000-07:00

Every dog needs his own little space where he can play and sleep. It can be in the form of dog houses, dog kennels, dog pens or small animal cages . Nowadays, you can find various options for a dog's shelter depending on your preference or budget. But before purchasing any product, there are several factors you need to take into consideration to ensure that what you're buying really suits your k9.

The first consideration is the size of your dog and how much space he needs. If you have a small backyard, it is important that you plan what is best for the area and how you can utilize the space. Putting up a small dog house inside this structure would be a practical move.

There are tons of sizes, designs and shapes of dog houses that you can buy today. Commonly, a canine house is made of either plastic or wood materials. Some prefer the plastic type because it lasts longer and is easier to clean. Others choose wood dog house because it can be customized and painted in various colors. But whichever type you choose, remember that there must be an adequate room for water and food inside the doghouse so that your canine will not be walking in and out of it.

There should also be sufficient space for him where he can sleep, walk around and exercise. A big dog house is always better. Ideally, it should be huge enough so that your k9 can lie down comfortably.

You also need to be particular about the insulation. If you reside in an area with severe temperatures, better opt for an insulated dog house to protect him against intense heat or cold. Having a house with removable roof is also beneficial to give you better access to the dog house, allowing you to clean it easily and quickly. It is also recommended that you raise the floor in setting up the shelter in order to prevent water from entering it during the rainy season and isolate it from the cold ground during winter.

Lastly, you must ensure that the dog house is made from sturdy materials that can withstand even the toughest weather conditions. It should be designed in such a way that your canine will be protected from the heat, cold, rain and other harsh elements. If your pet enjoys spending time in the outdoor, then a doghouse is just the perfect option!

Benefits of Dog Exercise Pens

2009-05-19T06:34:00.000-07:00

Dog training is an essential part of making your k9 stay fit and healthy. If you're a dog owner, you may find it difficult sometimes to control your dog to stay within a specific boundary when you're training him or playing with him in the park or the backyard.

A dog pen, often called as an exercise pen, is a great solution to contain your dog while allowing him to roam around and exercise. It is a type of dog containment system which consists of fences usually made of gauge wire forming a safe space for your dog both in indoor and outdoor environment.

Here are some of the benefits of dog exercise pens:

1. Your dog will feel secured in a territory which he can call his own while giving him as much freedom as possible.

2. For both beginners and experienced dog trainers, the use of dog pens is a very cost-effective way to provide your dog with a safe and spacious enclosure where he can exercise regularly.

3. These pet containment systems are so portable and easy to set-up. You can move a dog pen from one place to another with ease.

4. Studies show that dog pens provide good effects to the psychological disposition of your dog. When he is a around a dogpen, he will not feel isolated. As a result, his behavioral problems such as nuisance barking will eventually be minimized if not totally solved.

5. Another benefit of dog playpens is that they can create an environment conducive to transforming an aggressive dog into your most behaved best friend. With the use of dog pens, you can make a familiar space for your k9 when you are too busy or not around to monitor him.

6. Dog pens are versatile and can be used for other purposes. Some dog owners utilize dog exercise pens along with a dog crate. A dog pen is not only for dog, it can also be used to contain rabbits and other small animals.

Benefits of Pet Beds

2009-05-05T19:27:00.000-07:00

Why is it essential to give your four-legged bestfriend a place of his own? The answer is quite simple – all dogs, regardless of size, breed or age, need a soft and comfortable bed to sleep on.

Pet beds are not luxury items but essential accessories to provide your dogs with warmth, support and security. Here are some of the important benefits that come from quality pet beds:

• Acting as protection from changes in weather, pet beds can provide your furry friends with a soft, comfortable and supportive place where they can curl up and relax. Many types of pet beds nowadays come with state-of-the-art cooling and heating components that give pets a respite from joint and bone tiredness. Heated pet beds, in particular, help in relaxing tight dog muscles and rebuilding flexibility. The insulation that a heated dog bed provides is so much better than a dog coat.

• By providing your dog with his own little bed, you will avoid possible accidents. Having a pet bed at home can reduce the chances of household furniture hazards such as jumping off the couch or smashing expensive fixtures.

• Senior dogs and pets with disabilities can get a lot of benefits from sleeping on pet beds. Orthopedic pet beds provide dogs with utmost support and comfort to maintain healthy joints and bones and minimize the dog's chance of developing canine arthritis and hip or elbow dysplasia. A dog bed with quality foam contours to a dog’s body, alleviating painful pressure points that cut off good circulation.

• Besides the comfort and security that your pet can get from sleeping on a bed, it can also aid in allergy and clean-up solutions. Pet beds give you a specific area where the shedding of hair strands and dander are controlled.

• Pet beds are not only comfy for your pooch, but more notably can keep him from getting too cold. Old and arthritic dogs suffer from pain and soreness when it is cold. One effective way to relieve their pain is too keep them warm. This is where pet beds become very beneficial.

Administering Pet Medication

2009-04-23T01:44:00.000-07:00

Having a sick pet at home is tough enough without the added stress of medication. Some dogs and cats take their medicine with ease while others need a little coercing.

No matter how difficult it may be to get your dog or cat to take medication, it is important to follow your veterinarian’s instructions carefully.

Pills or Capsules - Step-by-Step

PetFirst Tip
Ask your veterinarian if your pet’s medication can be given with food. If so, trying placing the pill in a small treat.

1. Hold the pill between your thumb and index finger.
2. Firmly grasp your pet’s upper jaw with your other hand tilting your pet’s head back gently.
3. Using your middle finger, slowly open the lower jaw.
4. Keep your middle finger over the small incisor teeth and deposit the pill as far back on the tongue as possible.
5. Close the mouth immediately while keeping your hand over the mouth.
6. Stroke the throat or blow gently into your pet’s nostrils. This will encourage your pet to swallow.

Liquids and Syrups - Step-by-Step

1. Fill the syringe or dropper with medication before beginning.
2. Insert the syringe or dropper between your pet’s teeth and cheek.
3. Close your pet’s mouth and tilt the head back slightly.
4. Gently release the medication from the syringe or dropper.
5. Keep the mouth closed and stroke the throat or blow gently into your pet’s nostrils.

Make sure you stay calm when you are administering medication. You pets can perceive your stress making them more nervous. Praise and a reward after your pet successfully takes their medicine is always a good idea.

Contributed by Pet First Health Care

Can I Afford to Get a New Pet?

2009-04-14T21:06:00.000-07:00

There is nothing quite like the happiness a pet brings. Before taking on a new pet, however, it is important to make sure you are mentally and financially ready for the challenge.

While most people don't realise it initially, there are major responsibilities in taking on a new pet. From the financial costs of feeding and housing a pet, to the time and energy needed to walk a dog every day, keeping a pet is not for the faint hearted.

Your children may be begging you to get a puppy, but it is important to make sure you have the finances, time and energy needed to take care of a new dog.

Naturally, the biggest factor to consider with any new pet is the financial implications. While food and housing may not seem like a huge financial burden, when combined with other expenditures like the occasional veterinary bill, this can easily amount to thousands over the course of the animal's life.

One of the most overlooked costs a household pet can bring is the cost of replacing damaged items. Although most people expect their pets to always behave perfectly, cats and dogs in particular have a habit of breaking and scratching things around the house.

While not all animals are intent on destroying the contents of your house, it is important to take this into consideration, especially in the first few months before you have trained your pet properly.

Another way the costs of having a pet show themselves is when you go on holidays. Unless you are lucky enough to have friends and family willing to look after your pet while you're away, most pet owners will need to enlist the services of a pet sitting service or kennels.

Time is another major cost to any pet owners. While most pets do not need walking every day, many others can still take up a large portion of your spare time. Cats, for example, require regular grooming and attention and even pets as small as budgies require regular attention and cage cleaning.

For many people who have extremely busy lifestyles, before deciding to get a new pet it is important to ask yourself, do I really have enough time to keep a new pet?

For many pet owners, pet insurance is another number to be factored into the cost of owning a pet. While it is an optional cost, pet insurance policies are rapidly growing in popularity as they can save pet owners thousands in medical bills

Of course all of these costs are minute when compared to the joy having a pet brings. The costs of having a pet are great, but most pet owners would agree, the rewards are greater. That said, in order to give your pet the care and attention it deserves, it is important to ask yourself - can I afford a new pet?

Ways to Dispose Dog Poop

2009-03-26T00:52:00.000-07:00

Cleaning dog poop is a major hassle if you don’t know exactly how to dispose them. It is a challenge that all dog owners around the world face everyday. However, there are many different methods that you can do to dispose your pet’s stinking waste. Many of these ways are environment-friendly and do not cost much.

Dog poop, if not disposed correctly, can be a threat to your health. When smelly dog wastes are left on the ground, harmful worms and other parasites can stay in the soil and later infect people who come contact with it. Here are some environment-friendly dog waste disposal methods that you can follow:

1. Make A Doggy Loo - You can dump dog poop into a doggy loo that is buried in your backyard. This is an economical way of disposing waste because all you need to set up is a bucket with holes in the bottom that go directly to the soil or ground. To ensure that the waste goes to the ground and breaks down, you will need to pour water with special enzyme drain cleaner into it.

2. Use Biodegradable Dog Waste Bags - For those who love to bring their dogs outside, the easiest method to clean after your dog is by purchasing biodegradable dog waste bags. Unlike standard plastic bags, these specially designed dog poop bags break down easily when exposed to heat and moisture. The waste is then converted into the natural elements of carbon dioxide, water, biomass and minerals. You can buy these dog waste bags in your local supermarkets and shops.

3. Buy A Doogie Dooley Pooper Scooper - This is one of the most popular commercial dog waste disposal systems that you can buy in pet shops today. If you don’t like exerting effort building your own doggy loo, purchasing a doggie dooley pooper scooper is the way to go. Similar to do-it-yourself dog toilets, doggie dooley pooper scoopers come with digester powder that will help in breaking the dog poop faster. It works similar to a septic system by using enzyme and good bacteria to turn dog poop into a ground absorbing liquid that is not detrimental to the environment.

4. Build Worm Compost Bins - If you want to convert dog poop into something useful, building a worm compost bins is a great way to achieve that. Nowadays, there are worm compost bins available for dog waste as well as manure worms that eat the poop and then make fertile castings for the plants in your garden.

Fun Games For Your Cat

2009-03-12T07:56:00.000-07:00

Playing with your cat is a great way to bond as well as get in some good mental and physical exercise. Here is a list of fun games to play with your cat.

1. Staircase Sprint – Stand at the bottom of a staircase and have your feline friend sit at the top. Throw a ping pong ball so it hits the back wall of a step one of or two below where your cat is sitting. The ball will bounce back and coming rolling back towards you. Your cat will follow it down the stairs trying to catch it. But the ball should reach you again before the cat can get to it, so you can keep throwing it back up the stairs until your cat is tired.

2. Bathtub Bustle – Place your cat in a clean bathtub and bounce a ping pong ball of the side of the tub to get things going. Your cat while have loads of fun chasing down the always moving ping pong ball.

3. Bubbles – Buy a bottle of bubble solution and blow them around indoors or outside. Attempting to catch and pop all the bubbles will keep your cat occupied.

4. Toys – Some recommended toys are playthings like balls with bells on them, wand toys and catnip mice. Some useful things you might find around the house are straws, boxes, crinkled up paper or bottle caps.

Contributed by Pet First Health Care
Cat Playpens
Kitten Playpens

Choosing The Right Breed For Your Crib

2009-03-04T23:13:00.000-08:00

The importance of choosing the right breed of pet to roam around your home is as important as your own personal hygiene. Both dogs and cats alike have an array of traceable origins and it is usually where your pet's personality may be based from.

Why is it important to look back or do a little character research before purchasing a pet? Perhaps you would also care about what will happen to your home after you leave them there by themselves.

For one, cats and dogs can be playful and sociable to their owners, your own guests, everyone. Some are good watchdogs and some are good as toy household pets. The other side of which people often neglect thinking is what happens if these pets are left home alone.

Most of the time, pets having no owners or fellow pets around the household develop a very destructive character. Expect your pets, unless well trained, to be possible home wreckers if attention is not that adequate. Perhaps one solution suggested by pet experts is to give your pet a company; a fellow breed or simply a fellow pet.

Cats and dogs need to spend time with owners in simple ways like a morning walk and other pet-owner bonding activities. When you're training or playing with them, use dog exercise pens or cat playpens to ensure their safety. If you’re planning to run down the pet shop near town, you might want to think first if you’ll be spending most of the time with your new pet or it will be just left behind like the rest of your furniture.

Are Dog Strollers Luxury or Necessity?

2009-02-26T05:17:00.000-08:00

It is never ridiculous to think about your dog's welfare and safety. Who would dare to disagree?

A lot of dog owners probably think that putting a dog inside a stroller is a useless idea, but they are definitely wrong. They dismiss the fact that dog strollers can bring a lot of benefits and advantages for both pets and the owners in terms of transporting a dog from one place to another.

If you want to protect your dog from many possible dangers in the outside world, buying a stroller is a practical option to ensure the safety of your dog while providing huge amount of comfort and convenience. You can also easily carry your senior pets or dogs with disabilities using this type of dog carrier.

Nobody wants to bring large dog with a fractured leg, right? It is a very difficult endeavor and risky at the same time for the condition of your dog. Caring for a disabled or injured dog will be a lot more manageable if you use a stroller.

Indeed, strollers for pets are not luxury items, most especially for physically challenged k9s. Older dogs will definitely feel more comfortable whenever you put them inside a stroller.

For dog owners who love taking a long walk in the park or around the block, a pet stroller is more than a necessity. If you are worried about your dog getting away or lost when you’re walking in the streets, you can prevent such unlikely incidents from happening by using a dog stroller. Dog strollers are also a healthy solution if you reside in an area where it isn't too safe to walk. Many outdoorsy dog lovers have heralded the use of a dog stroller as a fantastic way of incorporating dogs into their workouts.

Is Your Pet Overweight?

2009-02-12T05:57:00.000-08:00

Your Pet's Weight Matters

Just like with humans, the primary cause of pet obesity is too much food and too little exercise. Obesity presents cardiovascular, musculoskeletal and digestive dangers to your pet's health while also increasing the risk for diabetes, arthritis, fatigue and heat intolerance. In all overweight dogs and cats, the body structure ages prematurely and can reduce the lifespan of your pet.

Checking Your Pet for Weight Gain

By monitoring changes in your pet's body, you can identify additional pounds early. Here are a few areas to check:

* Run your hand over your pet's hips. You should feel the bumps of two pelvic bones without applying pressure.
* Place your thumbs on your pet's back and run them along the backbone with your fingers over the ribs. You should be able to feel the bumps of the ribs without applying any pressure. If you can see the ribs or they are protruding, your pet is too thin.
* Push your thumb and index finger into the flesh at the side of the neck above the shoulder and pinch together. Your fingers should not be more than a half inch apart.
* When you look at your pet from the side, the abdomen should not be hanging down
* When looking at your pet from above, you should be able to see a waist behind the ribs

Making Changes to Reduce Obesity Risk

The first step is to consult your veterinarian. He or she will be able to provide you with a detailed feeding and exercise plan if necessary. Ask about regular follow-ups to ensure the plan is working. Here are other things to help reduce weight gain:

* Don't misinterpret an empty bowl as an empty stomach. Even if your dog or cat "cleans their plate", make sure you are controlling portions appropriately.
* Make time for extended exercise. Playtime alone or outside is not enough. Schedule a play session or a long walk to help keep your pet's muscles toned.
* Pay attention to the fat and calorie content in the food you buy. Fats are an energy source, but excess fat adds pound quickly. Similarly, look for low calorie diets that offer the same quality ingredients found in higher calorie foods.
* Don't let your pets snack on your table scraps.

To promote your own health along with the health of your pets, explore ways that you and your dog or cat can exercise together. Some canine breeds can be great company for a long walk or jog. Keep in mind, cats prefer frequent periods of intense activity rather than longer exercise sessions.

Contributed by Pet First Health Care

How To Treat Dog Arthritis

2009-02-05T06:02:00.000-08:00

Dog arthritis, a canine illness characterized by a pain in the joint, is a common problem among senior or old dogs. It comes with age and mostly affects large dog breeds. A dog with arthritis or hip dysplasia faces difficulty in moving, jumping or playing and also shouts in pain when tapped.

There are many ways to cure a dog with arthritis, ranging from herbal remedies to pain relief medications. But whichever treatment option you choose for your beloved canine, just make that you to seek the advice of your veterinarian first to know which treatment is most applicable for your dog’s condition.

A dog with arthritis often experiences severe pain. To address this, vets prescrible anti-inflammatory medicines such as aspirin and carprofen, both of which are helpful in minimizing pain and inflammation caused by arthritis. These drugs can significantly lessen the inflammation at the nerve endings, giving relief to your dog comfortable for some time. Other drugs such as steroids prednisone dexamethasone and anti-inflammatory medicines are also given to alleviate pain and reduce swelling of joints.

You can also feed your dog foods rich in omega 3 & 6 fatty acids. Fish oil, for example, is a natural anti-inflammatory agent, which is essential to reducing pain where inflammation is present.

For best results, any medical treatments need to be matched with proper dog diet. A dog with arthritis needs nutritious and well-balanced food in order to maintain the proper weight for his age and boost his immune system. Your dog must also get exercise on a regular basis to improve his strength and metabolism. Even if your dog is old, he still needs to move around and exercise. Walking the dog around your backyard or neighborhood 2-3 times daily will help him feel better in the long run.

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Kid Friendly Dogs

2009-01-26T00:38:00.000-08:00

Parents are smart to research which dog breeds are best for their children. Below are a few breed suggestions and tips as you consider which breed will function best in your family.

Labrador Retriever - Labs are a very popular family dog. Generally this breed is non-aggressive, and it's playful, easygoing demeanor makes it a great fit for children of all ages.
Golden Retriever - Similar to Labs in personality, Goldens are mild mannered and enjoy being around families and other people. These dogs are easy to train are gentle with children.
Beagle - Despite a Beagle's bark, they are also non-aggressive. Beagles are great around people, but don't like being left alone. Watch out for Beagles' boredom to lead to behavior problems if left alone for too long.
Basset Hound - This breed is good with children of all ages. They are known for their docile nature and gentleness. Their long backs need to be supported when they are picked up, and an eager child can accidently injure them.
German Shepherd - This dog is good for older children. They are playful, loyal dogs with considerable size and strength. Start training your German Shepherd early; without training they can quickly become a handful.
Cocker Spaniel - These lap dogs are sensitive and sweet and enjoy the attention of children. Cocker Spaniels are obedient with training and friendly around people.
Poodle - The standard sized Poodle is intelligent and eager to please. Labradoodles are a mix of Poodle and Labrador Retriever and can be a great alternative to a Lab for children with allergies to pet dander as Labradoodles are a hypoallergenic breed.
Cairn Terrier - This sturdy breed is great for families that prefer a smaller dog. Cairns are about 10 inches tall and weigh about 13 pounds and are good with children.
Pug - This affectionate breed loves being part of a family. Outgoing and mischievous, they make playful companions for children.

Keep in mind this list is not exhaustive. Each dog is an individual and can be an exception to the rule. With that in mind, here are a few breeds to be more cautious of around young children and toddlers.

Dominant and Willful Breeds - Rottweilers, Chow Chows, Coonhounds, Border Collies and Weimaraners all have personalities that make them difficult to train. These dogs may function better in homes with older children.
Toy Dog Breeds - Young children may play too roughly with Shih Tzus, Chihuahuas or other breeds under 10 pounds causing serious injury to the dog. Small dogs can also be more temperamental around children and may snap at them.

Contributed by Pet First Health Care
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Guide To Raw Diets For Dogs

2009-01-19T02:56:00.000-08:00

A raw dog diet, as the term suggests, is a kind of diet which is composed of raw and uncooked food with no hidden ingredients and fillers. It is usually a combination of raw meat, eggs, meaty bones, some types of vegies and a few portion of usual dog kibble.

There is no denying that a raw dog diet is much better than commercial dog food. Why is that so? A raw diet for dogs contains ingredients that are fresh, natural and organic. This means that you can improve your dog's health if you constantly give him raw food.

Dull coats and skin, for instance, will look more shiny and healthy looking. It is also a good way to prevent dog's bad breath. Dogs under a raw diet can also enjoy better digestion and stamina.

By choosing a raw dog diet, your dog will lose unwanted fat and increase his muscle mass. This not only makes your dog look so much better on the outside, it also boosts your canine's metabolic rate, as well as his activity levels and life span. Not only that, buying fresh vegies, bones and organ meats are a lot less expensive than purchasing premium commercial dog food. For those who want to save money, it's really a cost-effective alternative.

So what types of food are part of a raw dog diet? Any part of a chicken is good for your canine. However, do not give him the bones. These can splinter and harm his internal organs. Turkey and quail are healthy too. Beef meats should also be included in your dog's diet. Unlike chicken, you can include the bones from beef or buffalo for your dog can digest them.

Raw diets can be given to puppies but be extra careful. Puppies can't chew bones like an adult dog can. Raw dog diet will also never be complete without vitamins. Your dog will be a lot healthier if feed him vegetables, fruits and whole grains.

Brushing Your Pets' Teeth At Home

2009-01-15T23:03:00.000-08:00

Importance of Oral Care

According to the American Dental Society, 80% of dogs and 70% of cats show signs of oral disease by age three. This can lead to even more serious health problems including heart, lung and kidney disease. Ensuring your pet receives proper dental care from an early age is critical.

In addition to oral examinations and dental cleanings performed by your veterinarian, there are several things you can do to ensure the mouth of your dog or cat stays healthy.

Brushing at Home

Brushing your pet's teeth daily helps prevent a multitude of oral and other health problems. It is best to introduce dental home care early with your new puppy or kitten. During your first veterinary visit, request a demonstration of how to properly and effectively brush your pet's teeth.

Below are step-by-step instructions on how to brush your pet's teeth at home.

1. Start with a healthy, comfortable mouth by having your veterinarian perform a dental cleaning. Existing problems may cause pain leading to an uncooperative dog or cat.
2. Start slowly by letting your pet become comfortable with you working inside their mouth with your finger. Gently rub along the gumline. Start at the front and move toward the back upper and then lower teeth and gums.
3. Pull his lip up to rub the outside of the teeth and gums.
4. Pull his head back gently to encourage him to open his mouth so you can clean the inside of his teeth.
5. Repeat on the opposite side of the mouth.
6. After your dog or cat becomes comfortable with your finger, place gauze over your finger and rub their teeth in a circular motion.
7. When your pet can handle the gauze, introduce a toothbrush during the next brushing session. It is important to make this switch because a bristled toothbrush cleans below the gumline where gauze or pads cannot reach.
8. Apply the bristles at a 45 degree angle to the surface of the tooth. Using small, circular motions, brush around the outside of the teeth ensuring the bristles get under the gumline. Brushing the sides of the teeth is not as important, as dogs and cats typically do not have tartar build-up between teeth like humans do.
9. Gradually add toothpaste designed for dogs or cats. Do not use people toothpaste or baking soda as both can upset your pet's stomach.
10. Place your hand over your pet's muzzle gently squeezing from the top.
11. Help keep your pet calm by praising your pet, speaking reassuringly and keeping the brushing sessions short. Remember, you will not always have a perfect teeth brushing session, but it's important to be consistent and keep trying.

Other Considerations for a Healthy Mouth

Hard food and teeth cleaning biscuits can help keep your pet's mouth clean in between brushings.

You should also be sure to regularly examine your pet's mouth for signs of periodontal disease. Brownish teeth, consistently bad breath, swollen or bleeding gums and pus between the teeth and gums are all warning signs. If your dog or cat has these symptoms, consult your veterinarian.

Contributed by Pet First Health Care

Tips On Training A Hunting Dog

2009-01-08T03:48:00.000-08:00

Hunting with a dog is a very exciting sport, but the training part of it takes a lot of time, effort and practice in order to do it the right way. With the much-awaited hunting season just around the corner, it's about time to prepare your dog.

Here are some tips on training hunting dogs such as Retrievers, Beagle, Norwegian Elkhound, American Foxhound and many others:

Again, take note that training a hunting dog needs time and effort. It's not an activity for impatient people. For it to be successful, it should begin right from when your dog is still a puppy. A hunting dog, of course, should be trained before being taken out to hunt.

Basic dog obedience training should serve as the most fundamental foundation of a successful hunting dog training. You dog must learn how to follow and perform commands such as heel, sit, stay, whistle and steadying drills. It is also recommended for hunting dogs to be trained in the water. Similar to duck hunters, retrievers need to sit still for long periods of time.

Another way to prepare your dog for hunting is by teaching your dog how to be steady. One technique to teach steadiness is clay target shooting. In this type of dog training, a bumper will be tossed but only one dog will be sent to retrieve the bumper. It also reinforces honoring. Mechanical bird launchers can also be used. The dog is taught not to seek out the bumper until after receiving a signal from his trainer. Teaching hand signals and whistle is also important in hunting dog training.

Conditioning your hunting dog should be done regularly. Expose him in the outdoors as often as possible. Allow your dog to roam around a spacious location outside your house such as parks, yards and even woods, or better yet, enrol him in dog agility training classes. By doing so, you can condition him to run fast and expose him in the climate.

Another element of training a hunting dog is to teach him to act abruptly and independently. The act of hunting requires a hunting dog to lead ahead of the hunter by great distances. Having said that, all hunting dogs need the right kind of diet. Feed him dog foods that are high in vitamins that will make him strong and healthy. Always give him a constant supply of clean water too.

Feline Bladder Infection Treatment & Prevention

2009-01-04T22:55:00.000-08:00

Feline bladder infection is also known as urinary tract infection, FLUTD, cystitis, and many other names. You cat is suffering from this disease if you observe that she often urinates outside the litter box or cries out whenever she tries to urinate. There might also be blood in her urine.

Take not that these symptoms is caused by the inflammation in the feline bladder, not the infection itself. If your cat can't urinate at all, take her to the vet immediately to address the blockage in her urinary tract. The treatment for this feline diseases depends on the diagnosis.

There are a number of feline bladder infection treatments that veterinarians recommend to cure this illness. The most common of all is the prescription of antibiotics to treat the bladder infection. To determine how serious the problem is, tests which include a urinalysis to check for white blood cells in the urine, and a urine culture to know which bacteria is causing the problem. This test is done to know which antibiotic medicine is bet to use for the cat suffering from feline bladder infection.

Another treatment option is the use of natural and herbal remedies for feline bladder problems. The remedy usually consists of the herbs uva ursi and barberry, along with Cantharis and Staphysagris. These natural ingredients are proven to be very effective in treating bladder-related diseases.

If you want your cat from getting a bladder infection, change her diet and feed your pet wet canned food. Your cat will be more prone to bladder infection or inflammation if she only eats dry food. Your pet must also drink lots of pure, clean water always. To make sure the water doesn't have any contaminants, give him the distilled or filtered one. Minimizing your pet's stress level is also a great way to prevent and treat this urinary problem.

Top 10 Holiday Dog Gift Ideas

2008-12-21T22:47:00.000-08:00

Christmas day is fast approaching; the big question is, have you bought something for your dog? Are you still looking for that perfect Holiday dog gift to make your pet’s Christmas fun and exciting?

If you want to spoil your dog, here some holiday dog gift ideas for you:

1. Dog accessories such as dog training collar, dog leash, and pet jewelry are great Holiday dog gift ideas that you can buy for your pet this holiday season. Not only are they not costly, they are also stylish.

2. Purchase some gourmet treats for your dog from your local bakery stores and pet shops. If you have the time, cook homemade dog treats or bake healthy and tasty doggie cookies or cupcakes with no added preservatives or artificial ingredients.

3. If you want to have the cutest pooch on Christmas day, prep up your dog with a fashionable holiday dog costume, Santa-inspired sweater or jacket with a collar ruff. Attach some jingle bells too.

4. Pamper your dog and take him to a dog grooming shop where he can enjoy a nice bath, shampoo, massage and other services.

5. Make a personalized dog gift basket which contains fun dog toys, treats and anything inside.

6. Purchase an edible dog holiday card. This holiday dog gift is unique and cheap.

7. Build a nice wood dog house. During winter, your dog needs an insulated house where he can stay warm.

8. To provide your dog with comfortable eating experience this Christmas, buy him new elevated feeders or similar feeding bowls.

9. There's no better way to put your canine to sleep on Christmas eve than in a new stylish, comfortable dog bed.

10. Are you traveling with your dog this holiday season? Consider buying dog strollers to carry your pet more easily.

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2008-12-21T06:49:00.000-08:00

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How To Prevent Cat Hairballs

2008-12-18T22:24:00.000-08:00

Cat breeds with long fur tend to develop hairballs than those with short hair. Hairballs in cats shouldn't be taken for granted for it poses many serious problems if left untreated. If your furry friend cannot rid itself of a cat hairball through defecating or vomiting, she might suffer from a blockage in her digestive system. Severe cases of cat hairballs are life-threatening and need to be removed though surgery. Among the common signs if your cat has hairballs is the loss of appetite or if she is having erratic bowel movements. A cat with dreaded hairballs usually suffers from constipation.

Though there is no exact cat hairball treatment to cure common cat hairballs, there are many preventative ways that can be done before doing any costly surgery. Remember that the formation of hairballs in a cat's stomach is caused by a behavioral problem. Often times, cats that develop hairballs are either compulsive, bored or stressed out. You can prevent your cat from ingesting her fur by redirecting her energy and attention to fun activities such as playing in the park or giving her cat treats and toys.

Here are some simple cat hairball treatment tips to control or minimize the chance of getting cat hairballs:

1. Regular cat grooming is an effective way to prevent cat hairballs. Comb your cat's fur as often as possible to get rid of dead hair. By doing this step, you will lessen the instances of too much ingestion of hair. After brushing, wipe your cat's fur using a moist, clean towel to remove excess dead fur.

2. If cat hairballs continue to bother your pet's life, use a special lubricant to help your cat digest the offending cat hairballs through her digestive system.

3. Buy special hairball treats for your feline friend. Nowadays, you can purchase a wide variety of edible cat treats with particular components that are designed to break up cat hairballs. Many of these cat treats consist of mineral oil.

4. If your feline shows problematic behaviors like retching or lack of bowel movements, bring her to the vet as soon as possible. She needs to undergo a thorough medical examination to determine the best possible treatment method to get rid of dreaded cat hairballs.

Best Dog Training Tips

2008-12-15T02:50:00.000-08:00

Do you own a lethargic dog who barks a lot and doesn't obey you? If you're looking for the best dog training tips, read on. There are many dog training methods out there that you can implement depending on your goals or what you want to achieve. If you want to control your dog in public spaces such as parks and streets, then your dog needs to undergo dog leash training. This kind of dog obedience training scheme is highly recommended for all dog trainers.

Here are a few best dog training tips for you:

1. Positive reinforcement matters a lot. It's easier to train a dog if you do it in a positive manner rather than in a strict and punishment-based way. Reward your dog when necessary.

2. Patience is a virtue in any dog training method. Dogs, like humans, have different learning abilities. You must be able to adapt to your dog's learning pace. Some dogs tend to pick up commands than the others. If your dog is a slow-learner, you need to allot more time and attention for him to understand everything. Never rush things!

3. Choose a training method that has worked to you before or someone you know. Consider the breed too for it is a also a big factor to consider in training.

4. All dog's behavior problems are acquired. Start training your dog when he's just a puppy. Most bad habits such as excessive barking, chewing and jumping can be controlled and stopped with a little foresight and consistent training.

5. The best dog training method must be a fun activity. Make your training session as lively as possible. Allot a schedule everyday for you and your dog to bond and play. Training your dog for 20-30 minutes will be good enough.

6. To further help you in training your dog, you can use training aids such as training collar system, remote trainer and many others. Make sure that every gadget you're using is proven to be safe and effective and is applicable to the age and size of your dog.

Pet Shampoo For K9s and Felines

2008-12-12T00:44:00.000-08:00

A healthy state of being should be found both from inside and out. Same principle goes with proper hygiene. This fact is very important not only to humans but to household pets as well.

Given that pets have uncontrollable habits of playing around and sneaking into different places around the house, bacteria, germs, and other harmful elements may cling to them and bring about bad effects to both pets and owners. Hence, the introduction of pet care in the form of pet bath came about; specifically shampooing for K9 or feline pets.

Pet shampoo is a very important component to help wash pests out. Most of these infestations are free gliding through the air, waiting for a host. Although shampoos bring about a clean feel to your pet, it is also crucial to choose which one would really work.

Some products can be very harmful that instead of bringing good hygiene, they end up providing allergies and other illnesses. In this case, proper consultation and research on the ingredients of the pet shampoo you’re purchasing are important.

Water alone will not wash out those pests from your pets. So better get a good shampoo and let your K9 or feline buddy run around happily with a good mane and wellbeing.

Canine Lupus Treatment

2008-12-09T00:47:00.000-08:00

Canine lupus is a disease that results to discoloration of a dog's nose. In rare instances, it can also affect other portions of dog's skin. Until now, the real cause of this health problem has not yet been determined by scientists. However, genetics may play a big role. There are specific dog breeds, usually big in size, that are usually affected by this health problem such as, to cite a few, Siberian Husky, German Shepherd, and Collie.

There are two kinds of canine lupus, namely Systemic Lupus Erythmatosus and Discoid Lupus. If not treated, canine lupus can result to other complications such as disease of the skin, kidneys, joints, blood and many other vital organs.

If you dog has lupus, you can observe the loss of pigment around his nose. Your dog may also be lethargic and weak because of muscle pains. Skin irritations like lesions and crusting can also be seen in your dog's skin. If it's not addressed immediately, your dog can develop scaling of nasal tissue and sores which are a bit painful and irritating for your canine.

The canine lupus treatment options vary depending on how advanced it is. Mild cases can be treated using a topical ointment. Severe cases, meanwhile, need corticosteroids.

It is also be useful to add some vitamin E in your dog's diet. Take note that dogs with canine lupus are highly susceptible to other bacterial infections so you need to boost his immune system. Herbal supplements and plant sterols are proven to be effective in making your dog healthy and in preventing other complication of canine lupus.

Veterinarians can also perform other canine lupus treatment therapy like gold salts or azathioprine to treat canine lupus. Since exposure to sunlight worsens skin lesions, vets recommend the application of sunblock or sunscreen on affected pets.

How To Stop Your Dog From Jumping

2008-12-03T23:09:00.000-08:00

A jumping dog who calls for your attention looks adorable at first. However, if this becomes a habit already, it can be both frustrating and irritating. The good news is, there are several methods to curtail this common dog's behavioral problem. Yes, you can totally stop your dog from jumping too much by using appropriate training techniques.

The primary key for successfully stopping your dog from excessive jumping is "consistency" in training. When your dog jumps up a lot, ignore him for a while. Don't reach down and fetch your dog from the ground. This kind of response will encourage your dog to continue from jumping.

For instance, if you've just arrive to your home after a tiring day from work, don't greet your canine and stay calm. If you act too lively and run to the house, your dog can get too excited that he might associate your hand gestures as signals that you want to play with him. Put a little bump with your leg and say "No!" or "Stop!" using a commanding voice.

Every time your dog jumps unnecessarily, do this kind of exercise again and again until he finally understands you. You must also hold your canine's training collar under his chin and pull it downwards. To make the training even more effective, give your dog some positive reinforcements whenever he obeys you and stays on the ground by rewarding him with dog toys and treats.

Meanwhile, if you don't want your dog to disturb your visitors, you can put him a dog leash. Also train him to follow the Sit command. When your dog barks and jumps, advise your visitors to just ignore him. If your pet tries to jump up, tell him to sit. Don't shout at him for it will only excite him more.

These training methods, however, can only be successful if all the members of your household follow the same rules. Avoid giving mixed signals. Make sure the same training method is employed all family members to totally curtail your dog's jumping problems.

How To Treat Dog Ringworm

2008-12-01T22:40:00.000-08:00

Ringworm in dogs is a contagious skin illness caused by fungi affecting various parts of a dog such as the scalp, body and feet. This fungal infection can be transmitted by direct contact between infected and non-infected dogs.

Contrary to popular beliefs, ringworm does not having anything to do with a worm. The term "ring worm" originated from the red ring that can be seen in the dog's skin.

Depending on how severe the infection is, there are a number of treatment options that you can do to treat dog ringworm. One way is by bathing your canine with anti-fungal soap or shampoo and rubbing neem oil onto the dog skin. A pet bath must be done 3 times a week or every other day.

Veterinarians also recommend griseofulvin. This medicine is given daily to an infected dog for about 30 days. Topical anti-fungal medicines may also be applied to your dog's skin to kill the fungi. The area around the lesions may be also carefully clipped down close to the skin. Be cautious when doing this in order to prevent skin irritation and infection. Another dog ringworm treatment method that is proven to be effective is a lime sulfur dip. This procedure is usually initiated twice a week for the first 2 weeks, and once weekly for 4-6 weeks.

These treatments, however, do not make immediate results. During the first few days of treatment, you will observe a sudden increase in your dog's hair loss. In the next weeks, the hair loss should stop. If not, have your dog checked again by a veterinarian for further diagnosis.

Still, the best way to prevent dog ringworm is to keep your surroundings clean at all times and to groom your canine regularly. Bad hygiene and dirty environment are the main sources of fungi that cause ringworm in dogs.

Dog Ticks Treatment & Removal

2008-11-27T03:06:00.000-08:00

Dog ticks are quite a common pet infestation among dogs. They can get these parasites anywhere, be it inside your house or when you roam around the park. There are various dog ticks treatment options that you can do to eradicate these nasty fleas from your dog's fur and skin.

One popular dog ticks treatment is the use of herbs and creams. You can also use anti-tick powders and oils especially made for canines suffering from ticks. However, though creams and lotions can kill ticks, they don't have the capacity to totally eradicate them. In fact, dead fleas end up still attached to your dog's fur.

Never attempt to remove dog ticks using tweezers. This is such a bad ticks removal practice that can cause infections and worsen the problem. Tweezers may burst the tick's body, poisoning your dog even more. If you're not aware of, there are specific dog ticks that can cause blood poisoning.

The safest dog ticks removal method to get rid of these parasites is by using your own hands. When you're doing that, remember not to put too much pressure on the ticks as their body could suddenly burst. You must do it carefully. The process of dog ticks removal might be a little painful for your pet. Once the dog ticks are out, you can dispose them by crushing them using newspapers. You can also put the ticks on a bowl filled with shampoo or bleach and flush them in the toilet bowl.

You can also opt for natural dog ticks treatment options. There are natural dog tick repellents that are proven to be effective in removing parasites that you can buy in the market today. You also can use garlic and vinegar to kill ticks. Simply add these natural ingredients in your pet's drinking water.

For severe cases of dog tick infestation, veterinarians usually recommend topical and oral medicines and antibiotics to administer your k9.

Benefits of Dog Parks

2008-11-24T19:03:00.000-08:00

Dog parks are not a peculiar thing to see at any state. To date, there have been quite a lot of parks suitable for your K9 buddies that are built to promote a healthier living and lifestyle. Aside from the basic purpose of established dog parks, what else can one benefit from taking your dogs to a simple walk in the park?

Since health is the number one priority, dogs and even cats need some time to breathe some fresh air and get their joints moving. Humans are not the only ones that need a jog or brisk walk at the park. Exercise is crucial among pets especially with the growing number of diseases that both dogs and cats encounter.

Safety wise and talking about comfort, taking your pets on a simple stroll down the neighborhood can be the easiest thing to do but not the safest. We can’t neglect the fact that cars or bikes may bring about accidents both to neighbors or your own pets. Among anything else, not all neighborhood pets are friendly.

It really is beneficial to go to dog parks or pet parks not only for your pet but also for other pet owners. Most of the time, interaction with fellow pet owners start here wherein they can talk about taking care of their pets, what to do on some cases concerning the health of pets, and others. Funny as it may sound, you may be building new friends of your own while your own pet does the same thing too.

Canine Acne Treatment

2008-11-20T03:54:00.000-08:00

Dogs, similar to human beings, can get acne too. It is a common infection among dogs that is caused by bacteria or allergic reactions to food, medicine, chemicals and other elements. Normally, it can be seen as bumps on a dog's chin. A dog suffering from canine acne has swellings and scabs on his skin. Dog breeds that are usually affected by this disease are short-coated canines such as bulldog, boxers and doberman pinschers.

Although canine acne is just a minor problem, this disease can develop into severe infections. Acne in dogs cannot be totally be eradicated, but rather controlled. Here are some canine acne treatment methods that you can do:

To control the formation of acne in your dog's skin, you need to determine some predisposing factors such as underlying dog allergies. Different dog breeds react to certain kinds of food and product, so you better avoid them.

Another effective canine acne treatment is regular cleaning. You can use anti-acne solutions such as Benzoyl Peroxide or mild anti-seborrheic soap or shampoo to minimize the bacterial load of the skin and eradicate cellular debris that block the pores of your dog. Proper dog grooming is an effective way to control canine acne. Hair should be removed with scissors to allow discharges to distributed further in your dog's skin.

For severe cases of canine acne, take your dog to the vet for proper medication. Usually, your dog will need to take antibiotics for 3-4 weeks. If your dog scratches his face a lot, an anti-inflammatory medicine will help alleviate the discomfort.

Tips On Caring For Older Dogs & Cats

2008-11-16T22:54:00.000-08:00

Older dogs and cats, just like humans, need special care. Paying courtesy to their needs will prolong their life. By giving him or her a little extra attention, your senior companions can be with you for a very long time. Aging of pets can be a major challenge for all pet owners but there are a few ways that you can do to make the life of your older pets safer and comfortable.

You know your pet better than anyone else. If you observe any indications of pain or changes in behavior, consult your vet immediately. Here are some tips on how to take good care of adult and aging cats and dogs:

1. If your dog has arthritis, you need to set up a safety gate across stairways to spare aching joints. Buying elevated feeders is also also a good idea so that your dog doesn't have to bend down to drink or eat. Put him or her also in a comfortable and soft bed.

2. Feed your old dogs and cats with "senior" pet foods. In this way, you can ensure that your pet gets the right nutrition. Your pet might also need some specialty diets. Select a diet that is low in calories but high in fiber.

3. Groom your pet occasionally. When brushing and grooming your senior dog or cat, check for any lumps, sores, and ear discharges. If you see anything unusual, bring him or her to the veterinarian.

4. Older pets are more susceptible to illnesses. Keep up to date on your pet's vaccinations.

5. Don't take for granted even the simplest indications potential medical conditions. Weight loss and change in their bowel movement, for example, indicate that something wrong to your senior pets.

6. To keep your pet healthy, give him or her multivitamins or supplements that are proven effective and safe for pets.

Dog Training Techniques For Beginners

2008-11-04T21:25:00.000-08:00

Let's face it, training a dog to obey you isn't a piece of cake. If you're new dog owner, you will definitely find yourself frustrated when your dog seems to be lethargic and uncooperative.

When it comes to dog training, there are tons of techniques out there. Many of these techniques are built on ideas that have been implemented by many dog owners for so many years. But whichever training procedure you choose, always remember that it requires spending quality time with your dog. Training your dog will be useless if you don't build a good rapport and strong bond with him.

Below are some dog training techniques for beginners that you can follow:

Don't Yell.
Many beginners face difficulties in getting their dogs follow what they command. Well don't be impatient. It takes time and practice before you can fully understand your dog's behavior and establish a good relationship with him. When you're commanding him, the tone of your voice matters a lot. It must be firm but non-threatening. Remember, you need to establish who is the authority or leader in the right way. You will not be able to establish dominance by yelling at your dog. It will have a bad impact on him.

Praise Your Dog.
You need to do possible reinforcement techniques on your dog. Praising him during training sessions is the most effective method to successfully train your k9. Dogs have feelings too, so they can pretty much understand the difference between right and wrong. Without the proper reinforcement, your dog will have a hard time understanding the difference between these two.

Start Early.
For better results, it is advised that you train your dog between the age of 3 to 16 weeks. Experts day that it is the best time to start training your canine. It is during this age when the bond between the dog and the owner will take hold.

Reward Him.
Rewarding your dog for being obedient is also one of the most important dog training techniques for beginners. A simple reward can go a long way. When your dog successfully executed your command, give him a dog treat. You can also show your gratitude by saying "good job!" When giving treats, keep them in small amounts, so as not to fill your dog's tummy when he is in a dog agility training session.

Practice Makes Perfect.
Training your dog to be obedient doesn't happen overnight. Your dog needs to practice a lot. Be patient and repeat the exercise many times until he gets it right. You need to include the training session with your k9 in your daily and weekly activities.

Why Enrol Your Dog In A Doggie Daycare Center?

2008-11-01T22:22:00.000-07:00

Enrolling your dog in a doggie daycare center is a good solution to improve his socialization skills and well-being. Daycare centers for dogs are established to provide assistance and care to canines in a friendly atmosphere conducive to learning and entertainment, allowing dogs to interact with each other. In such a social environment, your dog will be able to enjoy playing with other dogs! Doggie daycare center can also help you with potty training your puppy, whereas hyperactive dogs are given an entertaining outlet for all that energy. Other daycare centers even offer grooming services such as pet bath to pamper your dog while you're away.

If you're busy with work, the best way for you to do to ensure that your dog will be well taken care of is to drop him in a doggie daycare. You can leave him in the center in the morning and fetch in the evening after your work. You can still be occupied with other important tasks while being assured that your dog is safe and having a blast with other dogs and puppies.

Most doggie daycare centers have large and open spaces that have separation system for different sizes and temperament of dogs. As you might be aware of, dogs are social animals who like interacting with other pets and people. Dogs would prefer to be around other dogs instead of being home alone all day.

With the help of doggie daycare, you will gradually observe a in your dog's behavior. Since he's able to socialize with other dogs along with the help of skilled caretakers and pet sitters, he will turn from a disobedient dog into a well-mannered companion. Doggie daycare can curb all the negative dog behaviors and turn them into positive ones. For instance, if your dog has separation anxiety, that behavior will likely be solved if you enroll him in a daycare center. His mental ability and confidence level will be stimulated.

Dog Fences: Types and Benefits

2008-10-30T20:30:00.000-07:00

There are various reasons why you should put up a dog fence. Besides the flair it can add to your yard, a pet fence, be it in the form of wood, vinyl, chain or metal, is beneficial for safety and security purposes. But whichever fencing system you choose, there are certain types that will best harmonize with your garden or landscape. By installing the right dog-proof fence, you will be assured that your k9 stays safe all the time even if you're not around to monitor him.

Below are a few common types of dog fences and their benefits:

Wood Dog Fence
This kind of fencing system is traditionally used as a decorative fence to provide privacy and set boundaries for your dogs. You can paint it in whatever colors you desire.

Chain Link Fence
This is one of the cheapest types of dog enclosure. You can buy long rolls of chain link fences at a very low price these days.

Vinyl Dog Fence
Vinyl dog fence is a new and maintenance-free type of fencing. It can usually be bought in forms similar to both wood and rail fencing. Vinyl fences will not fade even during the harshest weather condition.

Electronic Dog Fence
This is a good choice who wants a pet containment without any visible sign of a fence. An electronic dog fence comes with a boundary wire, a transmitter and a dog collar. You can form the fence into shapes you want. As compared to wood fences, an underground fence is less expensive and easier to install!

Dog Pens Benefits

2008-10-27T17:22:00.000-07:00

Dog training is an essential part of making your k9 stay fit and healthy. If you're a dog owner, you may find it difficult sometimes to control your dog to stay within a specific boundary when you're training him or playing with him in the park or the backyard.

A dog pen, often called as an exercise pen, is a great solution to contain your dog while allowing him to roam around and exercise. It is a type of dog containment system which consists of fences usually made of gauge wire forming a safe space for your dog both in indoor and outdoor environment.

Here are some of the benefits of dog pens:

1. Your dog will feel secured in a territory which he can call his own while giving him as much freedom as possible.

2. For both beginners and experienced dog trainers, the use of dog pens is a very cost-effective way to provide your dog with a safe and spacious enclosure where he can exercise regularly.

3. These pet containment systems are so portable and easy to set-up. You can move a dog pen from one place to another with ease.

4. Studies show that dog pens provide good effects to the psychological disposition of your dog. When he is a around a dogpen, he will not feel isolated. As a result, his behavioral problems such as nuisance barking will eventually be minimized if not totally solved.

5. Another benefit of dog exercise pens is that they can create an environment conducive to transforming an aggressive dog into your most behaved best friend. With the use of dog pens, you can make a familiar space for your k9 when you are too busy or not around to monitor him.

6. Dog pens are versatile and can be used for other purposes. Some dog owners utilize dog exercise pens along with a dog crate. A dog pen is not only for dog, it can also be used to contain rabbits and other small animals.

Patio Pet Door Buying Guide

2008-10-22T17:32:00.000-07:00

Are you planning to buy a new pet door for your beloved canine but on a tight budget? This patio pet door buying guide will help you get the best deals in a dog door:

1. Assess your budget. Shop around before buying anything. You can surely find pet doors at affordable prices in the internet. Do comparison shopping!

2. You need to determine the height of the patio door track. Before purchasing a pet door, measure the track from top to bottom with the use of a measuring tape. Take note of the adjustments that may be needed and compare it to the actual height of desired pet door.

3. Check the color of the framing. As much as possible, select the colors that will match the interior of your house.

4. Consider the climate in your area. If you live in a location where climate is tough, choose the toughest patio pet door. Make sure that it is made from sturdy materials that can withstand even the toughest weather conditions.

5. Choose a patio pet door that is applicable to the size of your k9. The ratio of your dog to the door must be proportioned.

6. Also check if the materials used on your walls will match the components used for the dog door you want to buy. A pet door can either be made of wood or plastic materials. If you think installing it will not work with your patio, look for other patio pet door products that will be applicable to your preference.

7. The product you are purchasing must include a limited lifetime warranty and installation manual which will guide you in properly installing the patio dog doors onto your wall or patio.

Dog Prostatitis Treatment & Symptoms

2008-10-20T00:44:00.000-07:00

Dog prostatitis is a disease common in male dogs characterized by the inflammation of a gland near the urinary bladder or prostate gland. It may develop by hematogenous spread of bacteria or by extension from the urinary tract and may either be acute or chronic.

There are various dog prostatitis treatment methods that veterinarians recommend to solve this problem. Since this canine disease is caused by bacterial infection, it is usually controlled by medications and antibiotics. Vets often choose an antibiotic based on the likelihood it will work for prostate infection. Antibiotics are typically given for a minimum 4 weeks. If the antibiotic drug seems futile, insisting on a culture is another recommended dog prostatitis treatment. In the case of acute prostatitis, intravenous fluids may be required. Neutering will probably not help much but it may be helpful if chronic dog prostatitis is present.

Prostatitis in male dogs can also be treated or prevented if you neutere your dog while he’s still young. If dog prostatitis symptoms are determined, diagnostic testing needs to be done to establish a dog prostatitis treatment course that is most appropriate. Remember, prostatic infection is very fatal and can lead to death so it must be dealt with immediately.

So how will you determine if you dog is suffering from dog prostatitis? Below are are some of dog prostatitis symptoms. You will know if your canine friend has prostatitis and needs to be checked by the vet if you see any of these signs:

1. Fever
2. Arched back due to pain
3. Dripping pus or blood from the penis or urine
4. Pollakiuria related to urinary tract infection (UTI)
5. Stiff back legs
6. Short intermittent spurt
7. Lack of appetite

Cat Door Installation Tips

2008-10-16T23:00:00.000-07:00

Looking for ways to allow your cat to go in and out of your house safely? Tired of going back to your main door always to close it as your stubborn kitten keeps on opening it? The installation of cat doors is a good solution for you! A cat door is easy to install and the process of building one can be accomplished in less than a hour. All you need to have is a lot of patience. Read the cat door installation tips below.

Here is the step-by-step installation procedures of properly installing a cat door:

1. First, remove the door from hinges using a hammer and screwdriver.

2. Measure the belly height of your feline friend, then layout the measurement on the outside of your door.

3. Cut the desired cat door opening. You can draw a square or rectangle. The opening should be atleast 2-3 inches above the bottom of the door, and it needs to be about 2 inches larger than your largest cat.

4. Proceed to making a cat door frame. Measure the inside part of the opening. Construct an "L" shaped frame to fit the inside dimensions.

5. Use fasteners to secure frames to the cat door.

6. For an added flair to the cat door, put some colorful paint or finish to it.

7. The cat door installation end with putting a simple mini-curtain as cat barrier. You can use any fabrics for that, even old towels and curtains. Make sure that that the mini-curtain is 2 inches bigger than the opening of he cat door.

Where's The Beef? B.A.R.F. Feeding For Dogs

2008-10-12T23:33:00.000-07:00

Dogs are prey animals that existed in the wild as carnivores eating primarily raw meat and bones. Wild dogs rarely ate grain and that helped them to stay lean and mean. Dogs today are our beloved pets but they are still carnivores and many people believe that they should be fed the same diet that wild dogs once ate. Unfortunately, most commercial pet food is filled with grains and chemicals that experts say may account for the rising rate of skin allergies, gastrointestinal problems and cancer.

An alternative to chemical laden commercial foods that poisoned pets in 2007 is the B.A.R.F. (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) Diet. The B.A.R.F. diet is controversial yet millions of people have switched to this way of feeding their dogs. Read on to discover some of the facts and controversies surrounding this popular method of feeding dogs.

What Is The B.A.R.F. Diet?

A Veterinary Surgeon in Australia, Dr Ian Billinghurst, created the B.A.R.F. diet and recommends that owners feed their dogs bones, fruits, vegetables, meat, eggs and dairy. His theory is that it is better to feed a dog completely raw food, imitating the types of food eaten by their wild ancestors.

What Food Can I Feed My Dog On The B.A.R.F. Diet?

There is much controversy in the B.A.R.F. community about what is included in the diet. Dr. Billinghurst states that vegetables and fruit are appropriate food to feed but others disagree. Most would agree that raw, meaty bones meat are a staple of the diet and that includes beef, chicken, deer, duck, game birds, goat, pork, lamb, fish, rabbit and veal. Some of the more controversial foods include eggs, vegetables, fruit, dairy, cooked cereals and supplements.

What About Handling Raw Food?

You should wash your hands before and after handling raw meat just (or wear disposable gloves) as you would while preparing food for humans. Be sure to disinfect cutting boards and countertops where meat is prepared. Many people believe that the dog digestive system is not as susceptible to salmonella, e-coli and parasites as humans. Many vets disagree.

How Much Food Is Fed Each Day?

On the B.A.R.F. diet dogs are fed according to their energy level. If your dog is very active it should be fed 2 to 3 % of their weight every day. A less active and more sedentary dog would get fed approximately 1% of their weight every day. This is not a precise measurement so it should be adjusted as your dog adapts to eating raw food. You should plan on feeding three or four times a day and preparing meals in advance.

What Are The Benefits Of Feeding Raw?
There is no scientific evidence that supports added benefits from feeding your dog raw food, but there have been many studies showing that commercial food is poisonous to our pets. People who are feeding their dogs raw food report that they save money and their dogs have less body odor, less bowel movements, cleaner teeth and reduced illnesses and medical costs.

Can Every Dog Eat Raw?

The simple answer is no. Most healthy dogs can adapt to raw food but dogs that are very old or that have chronic and serious illnesses may not be appropriate candidates for this type of diet. Some dogs will simply refuse to eat raw food. You should talk to your vet before the switch but be prepared for the doctor to discourage you from making this decision. Some veterinarians are heavily influenced by commercial pet food companies because they make a great deal of money selling the product. Ask your vet if any patients feed their dogs raw food and ask if they experienced problems adjusting to the change in diet.

Are There Any Side Effects?

Again, this is anecdotal information but many people report a detox stage in feeding raw food. This means the dog is adjusting to the diet and getting rid of toxins in their body. Symptoms your pet may display include vomiting, diarrhea, bad breath and itchy skin. Supplementing your pet with Vitamins C and E may help. If your dog has these symptoms for more than three days after switching diets, take them to your local vet. Ask your vet about the best method for changing your dog's diet.

Raw feeding is not for every dog nor will it work for every owner. Be careful whenever you change the diet of your pets. Some proponents of raw food insist that a "cold turkey" switch is better but most vets will disagree and say changes should be made gradually. Educate yourself by doing research and reading some of the great books available on raw feeding before making the switch.

© 2008, Davis Virtual Assistance. All rights reserved. Reprints welcomed so long as the article and byline are not changed and all links are made live.

Bonnie Jo Davis is an animal lover who is active in animal rescue. She is the author of "50 Fantastic Recipes For Dogs" and "50 Fantastic Recipes For Cats" and created these downloadable cookbooks for those people who want to feed a more natural diet but do not want to handle raw meat. More information is available at http://www.dog-and-cat-food.com and other recommended pet e-books are available at http://www.dog-and-cat-food.com/petebooks.htm