All About Pets

My New Blog

2010-02-14T22:29:00.000-08:00

Hi guys!..Its been a long time since I posted here,..Just wanna share to all my new blog and hope that you can also visit it..thanks..

Yummylicious – Smart Food Talk

This is all about food talk, anything that we can talk, share, and discover that we can use in our daily lives. Find out new things and learn more about food stuff,goodies, food recipes, food products, delicious desserts, catering, home cooking, fast food, food tips and even learn about having a healthy living through the food you eat.

Buy Bird Cages: Cheap Bird Cages

2009-11-15T19:40:00.000-08:00

By articlelink01@gmail.com

There are thousand of people in the United States that own pets. Many of these pet owners have birds as pets. At one time or another, these people needed to buy bird cages. They likely went through a selecting process and ending up purchasing cheap bird cages. While it is a good idea to find cheap bird cages, you shouldn’t let the price influence your entire decision. Instead, you should take a number of different factors into consideration. It is very important to think about the type of bird that is going to be living inside the cage. It is also important to think about the location where the bird cage is going to be placed. You should also take maintenance into consideration.

It is very important to take many different things into consideration when you are trying to buy bird cages. For starters, when buying a bird cage, it is very important to purchase a bird cage that is specifically designed for the type of bird that is going to be living inside of the cage. There are cheap bird cages that are specifically designed for different types of bird. For instance, there are bird cages that are designed for parakeets while others are designed for canaries. You should choose a cage that is designed for the type of bird that you have.

It is also a very good idea to buy bird cages based on the style of the cage and the style of the room that the cage is going to be placed into. There are cheap bird cages that come in many different sizes, shape, colors and style. It is very important to choose a bird cage that fits the style of your room. Thankfully you will likely be able to find cheap bird cages that perfectly suit the style of the room that you are going to be placing it in. Make sure that you choose the right style otherwise your cage will look like an eyesore and appear as though the cage shouldn’t be inside the room at all.

It is also very important to buy bird cages that are very easy to clean and maintain. There are many cheap bird cages that come will trays at the bottom of the cage. These trays can be easily removed from the cheap bird cages. This allows you to clean the bird cheap with ease. It also allows you to feed the birds easier because you can simply place the food into the bottom of the tray for the birds. There are many cheap bird cages to choose from. Make sure that you take your time when choosing the bird cage that you want. Make sure that it is affordable, stylish and easy to clean.

There are many different places to buy bird cages. You can buy bird cages from Mega Pet Direct which is a bird cage dealer. This dealer will have everything that you are looking for. The best thing about Mega Pet Direct is the fact that this bird cage dealer will be able to sell your top quality bird cages at affordable prices which makes sure that you get a very stylish cage at a cheap price.

Are you looking for Cheap Bird Cages? You can Buy Bird Cages from Mega Pet Direct which will have everything that you are looking for.

Tags: starters, colors, shape, united states, many different things, pet owners, parakeets, canaries, bird cage

bird cages

Insights On Dog Obedience

2009-11-12T21:41:00.000-08:00

By Sumaryan

A dog is said to be man's best friend. Most people like to keep them as pets because they are capable of guarding their possessions as well as keeping them safe at all times. However, what most pet owners fail to understand is that their dogs need to go through the so-called dog obedience training. It is very important because the training itself will educate your pet as to the proper behavior. Chances are, you will be taking your dog for a stroll or to some trips and it will never be helpful if he is wild and unruly. To ensure that he is not going to cause troubles, obedience training is definitely a wise choice!

Dogs Need Social Skills

Generally, dogs are held to be social animals. Thus, their behavior should be shaped. They often get too excited when they see people and other objects so the tendency is for them to get wild when they are able to get out of their homes. The dog obedience is therefore a must for them. Dog training is not only composed of physical exercises but also some mental activities that will sharpen their minds.

When to do Obedience Training

Most owners ask when the right time is to employ obedience training. Ideally, a new pet needs to be trained. The younger the dog is, the higher chance of shaping his behavior.

Hence, for those pet owners who have not taken the right move as early as possible, you should identify the high time when to have your dog undergo the training. Well, dogs are very playful and they often associate it with ripping or destroying things. What if your valuables fall as the victims? You will surely go berserk!

Obedience training is the solution to turn to because it is known to solve almost all behavioral problems that your pet may have.

Necessary Skills in Obedience Training

One of the most essential skills that obedience training calls for is no other than effective communication. The commands such as stay, stop, come, and so on are among the basics to learn. Ensure that the training sessions will not be boring for the dog to take or else there will be very minimal learning on his part.

Type of Training to Get Your Dog

Professionals suggest the use of two of the most essential training styles. The first one is called the reward training and the second one is known as the leash or collar training. The reward training is somewhat less forceful compared to the leash or collar technique. It therefore makes use of praises and rewards for any good behavior displayed by the dog.

Even if you intend to do it on your own, you can still get the help of the professionals by reading a couple of dog obedience guides online or taking the advice from the published books sold by your local bookstores.

Dog obedience training doesn't actually cure all types of misbehaviors but it is able to resolve most of the problems. The most important secret is that of directing his attention towards other things and activities so he will forget about his tantrums. After all, a busy and happy dog is never a source of trouble!

dog obedience

Your Best Caring For Persian Cats

2009-11-10T21:37:00.000-08:00

By Lena

We are not going to provide encyclopaedic knowledge on cat health care but the information provided on cat health care would be more than sufficient.

If you have a few minutes to spare and you are searching for information on cat health care, do read this article. We assure you that your time would not be wasted in anyway.

These days, Persian cats are among the most popular breeds of cat. Well known for their gentle and sweet personalities and their long hair, Persian cats have very attractive features. They are great companions for virtually anyone, and not very demanding. Unlike other breeds, such as the Siamese breed, Persian breeds need very little attention.

Although white is the colour normally associated with Persian cats, they actually come in a variety of other colours as well. During competitions, they are divided into seven colour divisions – solid, silver and gold, tabby, shaded and smoke, particular, bicolour, and Himalayan. No matter what colour of Persian cat it may be, they are best noticed during competitions by their long and flowing coats.

Persian cats should always be kept inside of the house, to protect their coat. If they travel outside, they can easily damage their coat. They will also need to be brushed daily with a metal comb, or their coat can become tangled, which will lead to hairballs. You’ll need to bathe your Persian cat on a regular basis as well, to help protect his coat. Bathing works best when the cat is young, as it will get him used to it. Bathing should never be overlooked, as it will keep your cats coat looking clean and healthy. Although some breeds can maintain their coats on their own, Persians can’t. Their fur is long and dense and you’ll need to groom them daily to ensure their coat stays healthy.

The Persian breed is gentle and sweet, getting along great with everyone – including kids. They have a pleasant voice that is always good to hear. Using their voice and their eyes, they can communicate very well with their owners. They are very playful, yet they don’t require a lot of attention. They love attention however, and love being admired. Unlike other cats, they don’t climb and jump much at all. They aren’t destructive either; they just love being admired and lying around. A majority of the time, Persian cats love to bask in the sun and show others just how beautiful they truly are.

Now when you are reading this article on cat health care you can yourself verify the veracity of our claim that we provide content in our articles and it should not be such a big thing but in comparison to what is generally presented on the net; that is a big thing for sure?

Although most breeds can be kept indoors or outside, Persian cats should always be kept inside and never allowed to go outside of the house. Keeping them inside with protect their coats and also keep diseases and common parasites away from them as well. You won’t have to worry about cars or dogs either if you keep your pet inside.

To ensure that your Persian pet stays healthy, you should always take him to the vet on an annual basis. If cared for properly, such as grooming, shots, and checkups, Persian cats can live as long as 20 years. One thing you’ll need to be aware of that’s common with Persians is their eyes. Their eyes are very big and can sometimes be too much for the cat to clean. This is a common healthy problem with the breed, and should be checked on a regular basis to ensure that it doesn’t get out of control.

When you compare Persians to other breeds, you’ll notice that the Persians are among the easiest to keep. You don’t have to worry about things like jumping or climbing, as Persians don’t like to do either. All you’ll need to do is feed your cat and groom him or him on a daily basis. Even though grooming can be quite a bit of work in the long run – it’s well worth it when you have a healthy an beautiful Persian cat.

Please visit the site for more information. http//www.cats-info.com “>cat health care

Tags: colours, few minutes, competitions, long hair, silver and gold, fur, attractive features, coats, persians, great companions, persian cat, persian cats

persian cats

Black Pug Puppies

2009-11-09T21:22:00.000-08:00

By airsoftguns

In the present world where everything is measured on the scale of style and vogues, keeping pet puppies have also became the fashion icon. There are wide number of species of dogs available in the world and the owners keep them with umpteen affection and care. Black Pug Puppies are one those elegant dog species which are considered to be highly loyal and affectionate. It is mostly popular with children as it plays with them in a vivacious manner. His characteristics radiate its intelligence, but it demands genial toning for learning the things.

During Shang dynasty of china, the Black Pug Puppies were quite famous for sitting in lap of Chinese emperors. Later on these became the favorite pet species of Chinese and Tibetan monks. The venture of Black Pug Puppies in Japan and Europe started from china only. In Europe pugs holded a royal position under the crown of revered Queen Victoria. It was considered as royal pet animal. There are many other stories linked to these cute and innocent looking animals. It was in the nineteenth century that these dogs made an entry in family homes.

Black Pug Puppies are candid and love to play with tiny tots. They become an integral part of the family with their fun and manners. This stocky and paunched animal has a square body and the wrinkles on its forehead indicate as if it is in a continuous state of worry. The dark and thoughtful eyes of these dogs reflect their sense of responsibility and love for their master. These cheerful species can make anybody allured by their style and ways. They receive each guest with sheer alacrity.

But there are certain things about the Black Pug Puppies which make them hard to handle and they can also behave as stubborn. If you don't keep a hold on them and let them do whatever they want, then they will be the leaders and will be difficult to control. Theses species are generally not aggressive but they fiercely guard their independence.

Black Pug Puppies need a shower sometimes and you may shampoo them once in awhile. They don't need fair amount of your care and attention. But the short hairs of black pug puppies make it essential to blow dry them quickly after a bath to avoid chills. The forehead creases need some care and should be regularly cleaned with soft cotton balls.

Black Pug Puppies can grow insanely corpulous if they are not put under adequate exercise. Usually they don't demand much physical outings but be sure to take then to walks. These are very sensitive species and can not withstand high temperatures. Therefore it is advisable to give enough drinking water to your Black Pug Puppies in summer season. It will be better if you keep you pets inside door in extreme weather conditions. Dogs are also a living species and therefore if they have been kept as pets should be given the part of love and care they deserve.

Provided by Black Pug Dogs, blackpugdog.com, with more information on black pug training, care, breed history, for sale.

pug puppies

Things you need to know about dog training

2009-11-03T22:48:00.000-08:00

By Despina

Usually, people believe that fine trained dogs are much Improved friend as judge against to untrained dogs. If you also think this, then you will be happy to know that trained dogs adjust better in family and friends. Once your dog Identify that you are his boss, he would gladly follow you and act upon your orders. much people prefer dog training course for their pets so as to make them learn obedience, but the nice part is that you can tutor your dog yourself without the help of any specialized trainer. However, if your dog is taking orders from a dog trainer and it is not able to make out appropriately, then it is completely your responsibility. Just like owners, dogs also feel happy when their owner is happy with them.

Although training your dog, primary main thing that you should maintain in mind is to know about your dog's manners. Getting to recognize with the dog’s behavior Assist it to grow well, both mentally and physically. You should take care of all the habits of your dog and should work upon them gradually and in an simple manner. Expecting your dog to do the orders and following them instantly would be mistaken, as every dog has its own power to grab things. furthermore, making your dog study by using violent modes is not a way to turn your dog into a disciplined family dog. If your dog all the time keeps on trying to get your attention, jumps on the friends, dribbles or even licks them, then your dog does not require any hard line method to be controlled because it just wants to make you appreciate, “, Here I am, Love me constantly”. If your dog is a puppy, do not try to exceed its puppy training stage, as dogs usually get bored and sometimes also get aggravated with extended training sessions. Regular training for five or ten minutes is enough to make your dog be taught whatever you want. Not just this, when it do well and follows you instantly, you should respect him and give some reward. Dog biscuits can be a good option while admiring dogs.

Tolerance is the top way to make your dog a fully taught dog. If you patiently wait for its response, it would absolutely respond at your instruction and will follow everything you say. During the training period and after or before the period always respect your dog, pat on its back, give it reward treats on doing fine and by no means use hard line techniques while instructing. Training can be began with simple Instructions like sit, down, stay, come and more. Your dog will always go after you and your orders, if treated with persistence and love. A dog adores its trainer when it feels that the boss also loves it the same way. Dogs learn very rapidly, if trained properly and you can also make your dog learn by following these simple guidelines. Dogs are the most faithful companions of humans, if treated properly and loved always, so always care for your pet dog.

dog training

Shih Tzu: Finding the Perfect Shih Tzu

2009-10-26T18:31:00.000-07:00

By Steve Allison

The Shih Tzu is a lively, proud and very lovable dog as owners will testify. The Shih Tzu is one of the most popular dog breeds on earth for good reason. In 1994 the Shih Tzu was the 12th most popular dog breed, according to the American Kennel Club.

They are generally friendly and self-assured. The Shih Tzu is the kind of dog that expects to be treated like a king, and wants you to know it. It is for this reason that often Shih Tzu's are not a good choice of dog if you have babies or toddlers in the house. They can become jealous easily.

Shih Tzu's make excellent watchdogs. Their alert and active nature means they are excellent good mannered companions. Poorly bred Shih Tzu's can be noisy and snappy.

If you want a Shih Tzu it's best to take a few precautions to avoid half-bred or genetically faulty Shih Tzu breeds. Rather spend some time making a good decision than have to regret it later. Unethical breeding practices are common and you will need to be an informed buyer if you are going to choose the best Shih Tzu for you.

Choosing a good breeder is very important. You don't want to end up buying a puppy from one of the notorious puppy mills. Cross bred varieties can produce all kinds of health and behavioral problems. If you want to be certain that you are getting a genuine Shih Tzu it's wise to check the breed standards before buying.

This means careful attention to the look and temperament of a Shih Tzu. Ask your breeder to show you the parents of the dog before you commit to buying the puppy. Check the parents of the puppy carefully for any of the faults outlined. This is just a guideline; it is not an absolute standard for pet quality.

If you intend on showing your dog at competitions and shows then an even more careful reading of the breed standards are important. You will also want to choose a more confident puppy - look for the puppy in the litter that seems poised and friendly - and of course good looking!

Some general points to look for color, age and size are the most important and immediate things you can check. The puppies will tend to look like their parents however this is not fool proof.

Shih Tzu's do not have gender related temperament differences and both male and female are equally loving. Teacup varieties are not officially recognized for good reason. People who breed these minute dogs do not do so improve the breed; ethical breeders breed for that reason.

Teacups, the ones that will be under three pounds as adults, have many problems and usually do not live beyond the Shih Tzu's that weigh a little more... read more

dog breeds

The Pros and Cons of Vaccines for Dogs

2009-10-26T18:23:00.000-07:00

By Eddie English

Vaccines introduce viruses into the immune system of our dogs each time they are injected. The purpose of injecting a pathogen into your dogs system is to expose the system to the pathogen but avoid the illness that accompanies the virus when introduced naturally.

Live vaccines appear to provide more protection against contracting the scary disease but some vets say that dead viruses are preferable to preclude contraction of the disease as a result of the vaccination.

Regular vaccination of dogs has for years performed a part in keeping our dogs healthy and supporting the reason for public health. Using the rabies vaccine as an example, studies have demonstrated that when dogs receive rabies vaccinations, there is a consistent dip in the reported incidents of rabies in people.

Examples of core or needed vaccines are canine distemper, canine, parvovirus, canine hepatitis, and adenovirus.

Related Sites:

Veterinary

Vets are now considering a myriad of factors prior to suggesting a vaccine custom. For example, if a dog is always at home, a vaccine to protect against kennel cough is not necessary. This effort by the manufacturers is responding to calls by advocates and some veterinarians who have called for a three year vaccine life and fewer vaccination treatments.

There is growing pro and public awareness that vaccine products are not as benign as first assumed, and controversy exists as to duration of immunity and frequency of administration. Vaccine administration is a medical procedure with which, as with any medical call, there are benefits as well as attendant risks?

A good example of this would be the previously mentioned rabies vaccine. When employed on a three year interval, the rabies vaccine has had a positive impact on dog and public health. A steady awareness is emerging that when a dog is bombarded with vaccines, the attack on the dog?s system and her long term health may outweigh any potential benefit from the vaccination protocol.

Dogs that aren't boarded probably don?t need a vaccination against dog house cough. Lyme disease is prevalent only in some areas of the U.S. Unless you live in one of those regions, this vaccination isn't necessary.

A typical trip to a veterinary office may cause recommendations for up to sixteen vaccinations for your dog. Before giving you veterinarian your consent, ask him to give an explanation for the possible hazards related to each vaccine.

vaccines for dogs

Dog Mating - Should I Allow It?

2009-10-22T22:29:00.000-07:00

By Rob Borket

Many of us have chosen dogs to be our pet. These are very special creatures and it is important to take proper care of them. Owning a pet is very much like caring for a child. It is up to you to find out the information you need in order to make sure your pet is cared for. For most pet owners the basics about dog care is sufficient to have a pet that is happy and healthy. Those of us who are responsible know we have to provide proper feed, exercise, hygiene and veterinarian care. However, there are areas of a dog's existence that don't come up every day. One of these is the subject of dog mating.

Many dog owners love their pets so much they want their dog to mate in order to get offspring. This is a decision that should never be made lightly. You must be aware if you allow your dog to mate you are responsible for the puppies that may be born. This is a very big responsibility. If your dog is a bitch then you are going to have to see she gets the extra nutrition and attention she needs during the pregnancy. If anything goes wrong during the birth you may have to pay for a vet to intervene. Once the puppies are born the bitch will need more feed as she is suckling her pups. If a pup is not healthy you may have to make the decision whether or not to allow it to live. These are only some of the many consequences of allowing your dog to mate.

Ethically, it would be considered wrong to allow dog mating simply for financial gain. You are responsible for ensuring each and every puppy goes to a responsible and caring home. You may be keeping one puppy for yourself but you must give all the others the same consideration. These are, after all, living creatures with very similar feelings and needs to our own. If you have any doubt as to whether you can place the puppies in suitable environments think about how many puppies are in shelters all over the country. Do you really want to be the one to add to this number?

A very important consideration before allowing dogs to mate is the issue of health. It would not be ethical to allow sickly dogs to mate. A sickly bitch may not have the stamina to get through a pregnancy, labor and birth. The right thing to do before allowing dogs to mate is to be certain they are in the best of health.

Rob is the owner and creator of All You Need To Know About Dog Mating. where you can find a ton of information on the art of breeding dogs, Rob also has a Squidoo page where he reveals some of his great insides in The Do's And Don't of Dog Mating, visit it today!

dog mating

Tips In Order To Prevent Animal Abuse

2009-10-21T20:29:00.000-07:00

By Mike Selvon

Pet abuse is one thing that can be prevented if only people will take the first step, yet in order to prevent it people must understand it, which can be difficult for those who love their domestic animals. People can prevent cruelty to the animals by taking some steps towards prevention. To love animals one must learn how to properly take care of them and respect the rights animals deserve.

The first step in stopping pet abuse from occurring is to take care of the pets that one owns. No matter if the pets are companion animals or farm animals; one must do everything they can in order to ensure the health and safety of these creatures. One can also send donations to various charities that focus on taking care of abused pets animals.

Many other great ways exist for those who want to help stop the abuse of pets. For example, in the US, many states do not have stringent enough laws against animal cruelty.

A person can get in touch with their local government in order to lobby for changes to the animal laws, and to make the consequences of such actions harsher. One can also donate their time to help the local animal shelter, as they are always in need of helping hands.

Pet abuse is one of the most unforgivable things happening in our modern day society. With all the wars and famine that engulf our world, the abuse of pets is one thing that may be far from one's mind. However, this is a real epidemic that people should try their best to prevent at all costs.

The prevention is so simple if one only tries to help their four legged friends in need. Help can come in many ways; one just has to be wiling to take the first step in the fight for the prevention of cruelty to animals. They so need our help and it is one thing that is so easy to give.

Mike Selvon has a passion for animal care, and his portal answers your common questions about pet abuse. Visit his portal for your free gift and leave a comment at his humane society blog.

Tags: free gift, humane society, health and safety, charities, famine, domestic animals, epidemic, local animal, animal shelter, cruelty to animals, four legged friends, farm animals, companion animals, helping hands

pet care

How to Take Care of your Dog Effectively?

2009-10-20T20:40:00.000-07:00

By Robert Bell

We've all been in that situation, where we've all wondered how to make our dog happier and how to keep him/her happy simplest thing is that it takes time and effort which we cant put out more often, so what do we do in turn?

Well simple enough you have to learn how to properly manage and amend your time as such that you don't face any complications when it comes to taking care of your pet.

The first thing that you can do is to basically try and take time out from your hectic schedule and try taking your pet out for a walk more often, and I'm not just talking about once around the block either. Though even that's not a bad idea when you think about it though, but see that's not the only thing.

You also need to see what kind of food you're feeding your dog. Focus on feeding your dog more healthy foods, and by healthy foods I don't mean just the premium dog food, I'm talking about how effectively you can use the scraps you feed the dog at home, keep in mind that not all foods are good for your dog, you have to be very careful when it comes to feeding him food that humans normally process.

One of the most effective ways to do this is to make sure that you do your homework very thoroughly, get all the information possible, if suitable spend some money buying yourself dog diet book which as you might know is commonly available without much problems or issues.

Remember at the end of the day you alone are the one responsible for taking care of your dog, and if you aren't providing for him or her, who will?Thomas owns a blog with funny pictures and movies updated on daily basis. Take a look and have fun.

Tags: money, dog food, homework, blog, daily basis, bad idea, scraps, diet book, healthy foods, hectic schedule, simplest thing, funny pictures

dog care

Rottweiler Puppy Training Guides

2009-10-20T01:03:00.000-07:00

By Sharon Davies

You've just seen an ad for Rottweiler puppies for sale and you're ready to bring one home. There are some points you need to consider, however. Is the ad for a pet store, a breeder or is it just someone whose Rottweiler pet had puppies and they're trying to get a little extra cash? These points are important because you'll want to know that your Rottweiler puppies are healthy, you'll want to know if they have papers or not and, especially if you're going to be breeding your puppies, you'll want to know what kind of lineage they come from.

Respond to the ad and prepare a list of questions so that you know what kind of situation you're getting yourself into. The questions should involve any kind of certification, whether or not the Rottweiler puppies have been inoculated, as well as a few questions on where the Rottweiler parents came from.

When you respond to the ad for Rottweiler puppies for sale, find out where the person or facility is and make a visit. Seeing the puppies up close will give you a good idea as to the quality of the Rottweiler puppies. If they have defects or diseases, you can often see this in the quality of their fur, the way they act and they way their bodies are structured. If the person posting the ad is a breeder, you often will be able to view the parents of the puppies to see if they are healthy or not. Likewise, if the person is just someone whose pet had puppies, you will often be able to see the parents. Make sure you look over the puppies thoroughly to make sure you're getting healthy puppies. You also might want to ask for some sort of certification or proof that a licensed veterinarian has looked at the puppies.

Make sure you get your Rottweiler puppies to the vet to get their proper shots before you bring them home. When you see an ad for Rottweiler puppies for sale, you'll want to know that the Rottweiler puppies have had their proper inoculations. And if they haven't, you need to be sure to get them. Puppies at that age are very susceptible to certain diseases and infections. Some of them can get sick from mingling with other dogs at a pet store or breeder's shop, and some can get sick from other pets if it's a private person selling their pet's puppies.

If you have other pets at home, you want to make sure you get your Rottweiler puppies to the vet immediately to ensure they stay healthy. You'll want to know your puppies will live long and healthy lives and you can ensure that by taking them to a licensed veterinarian immediately before you bring them home to meet the rest of your family.

Sharon Davies is a sought after animal rights speaker and often gives both time and money to local rescue groups. To make sure Rottweiler puppies are healthy ask for veterinarian health certificates and inspect the puppies closely. A lot about Rottweiler puppy care is common sense, but check with a qualified vet for specifics.

Tags: parents, extra cash, proof, diseases, pet store, veterinarian, vet, fur, rottweiler, lineage, puppies for sale, inoculations

puppy training

Types of Dog/Shih Tzu Aggression

2009-10-15T23:10:00.000-07:00

By Connie Limon

By nature, Shih Tzu is generally not an aggressive type of dog. However, there are exceptions and in this article I will discuss 4 types of dog aggression that could be a warning sign to the owner that his Shih Tzu is in need of professional help.

Four types of dog and possibly Shih Tzu aggression are:

1. Dominance Aggression Toward People
2. Interdog Dominance Aggression
3. Fear Aggression
4. Territorial Aggression

Dominance aggression toward people: Dominance is the driving force behind all canine aggression. Without dominance dogs and Shih Tzu also would not be able to stand up for themselves. Even a Shih Tzu with a submissive type temperament will have a small amount of dominance behaviors, enough to warn intruders off a favorite food, toy or circumstance. Protection of the Shih Tzu's valued assets can be virtually the only sign of dominance. An aggressive response by a dominant Shih Tzu may also occur when the Shih Tzu is prevented from doing something it wants to do, in response to manipulations around the head and neck or when the Shih Tzu is disciplined. Different dogs and different Shih Tzu have different priorities with regards to what will "tick them off." Dominance aggression is also dependent upon the time, place and circumstance. Dominant Shih Tzu is not likely to become aggressive toward the person he perceives as his leader. Dominance aggression is the primary way dogs and Shih Tzu establishes their hierarchical structure and relationships with each other. Therefore, some dominance aggression in dogs and Shih Tzu is to be expected.

Interdog dominance aggression: This is a dog or Shih Tzu that constantly picks fights with other dogs. The subordinate dog defers to a dominant dog by averting his eyes; holding the head low, body hunkered down, tail tucked or held low, which is the canine equivalent of waving a white flag. Treatment of aggression between dogs is not easy. You can, however, keep your interdog dominant Shih Tzu on lead when he is likely to be confronted with other dogs. Seek professional help if your Shih Tzu continually exhibits this type of aggression.

Fear aggression: Fearful and insecure dogs or Shih Tzu may exhibit aggression whenever they feel threatened. Often there has been a point in these dogs' lives when they were exposed to some unpleasant experience involving a person or another dog. Many Shih Tzu from rescues, pet shops or puppy mills may acquire fear aggression. A Shih Tzu purchased from a reputable breeder and then mistreated by new owners can also acquire fear aggression. Fear aggression involving people are often men and children, and almost always strangers. Professional help is often needed for this type of Shih Tzu and most often the cause for the fear aggression can be ascertained.

Territorial aggression: Some Shih Tzu aggressiveness to strangers and other dogs occurs when they are approached within their own space or territory. The territory can be the owner's home and property. They will bark and otherwise attempt to intimidate intruders until such time as it is clear that the visitor is welcome by the owners.

One very positive side of dog aggression is that a good guard dog is better than any alarm system. A house with a dog is far less likely to get burglarized. Many times the house with the dog or dogs remains unmolested. Just having a dog with you as you walk is a deterrent for many would-be attackers.

Connie Limon is a Shih Tzu breeder. She publishes a FREE weekly newsletter. Sign up at: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com Designer Dog Clothes are offered on the website.

dog breeder

Accessories for your Pet

2009-10-15T01:44:00.000-07:00

By JessicaThomson

When one buys a new pet, there are many "essential-supplementary" things that need to be bought. These are required because you cannot rightly handle your pets without these accessories. Which accessories are needed, that depends on the owner's choice as well as his pocket. Some of them are very basic which is almost necessary for your convenience. For instance, food bowls for your dog or cat is something you can't do without. There is a lot of bowl variety available including bowls made of ceramic, steel and plastic. A leash and a collar is also a recommended addition. These dog accessories come in many designs and one can choose according to his taste and the size of the dog. Collars should carry an identity tag that tells the owner's credentials if your pet gets lost. Many cities have imposed bans that prohibit owners from allowing their pets to excrete on the streets. There are a number of pet products available that might prevent you from heavy fines if you fail to abide by the rules.

In case of fishes, an aquarium is the most important thing that one should look out for. Each fish has its own needs and so searching for the right size of aquarium or a glass bowl becomes important. A pump is required to keep the fish healthy. These can be bought at the same stores where the aquarium fish are purchased. Depending on the environment you will be keeping your aquarium, different pumps are decided. Fish owners who want to keep their fish in bedrooms or offices are advised to purchase silent pumps. Other fish accessories include aquarium filters. This helps to keep the aquarium water clean. This may even extend the life of the fishes. An aquarium heater is used to keep the fishes at a comfortably warmed water level. Other decorations for the tanks are also available.

Keeping reptiles as pets can be demanding as they don't have the same diets as that of other popular pets. Even the reptile accessories are not so commonly available. Special cages are available depending on what you plan to buy. These cages can be of any size and made out of plastic or steel. Proper care needs to be taken so that they are not easily broken. Customization of the cages can be done to make them suitable to your purpose. The number of doors and dividers can be varied.

Pet products can be obtained at pet stores and even you can find a wide range of options available online.

pet products

Protect Your Cat With Vaccinations

2009-10-14T01:15:00.000-07:00

By Ron King

If you want to enjoy the companionship of a healthy and happy cat, 1 of the most important things you can do is to safeguard its health. Vaccinations can protect your cat from many common cat diseases.

Weaned From Mother's Immunity

When your kitten is 6 to 8 weeks old, you should begin his vaccinations. Before this time, the mother's antibodies have been protecting him. Once he is weaned, however, he will need to develop antibodies of his own.

The Vital First Visit

The first office visit is when your veterinarian will give your kitten a complete physical examination. A fecal exam is normally done to assure that your kitten doesn't have worms. Prior to vaccinations, your veterinarian should do a blood test to be sure the kitten is not already infected with Feline Leukemia. The vet may also test for Feline Infectious Peritonitis. These tests are quick, and your veterinarian will have preliminary results in minutes.

If your kitten is not already infected with 1 of these diseases, the vet will give your kitten his first Feline Leukemia and FIP vaccines, assuming if he is at risk for these diseases. An only cat who never leaves home may not need these vaccines, in which case your veterinarian may recommend against giving them.

Whether he leaves the house or not, your kitten should receive his first FVRCPC vaccine. This combination vaccine protects kittens from rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, panleukopenia and chlamydia.

Follow-Up Vaccines And Worming

Within 2 to 4 weeks your kitten should visit the veterinarian again, at the age of 8 to 12 weeks. This time he will get a second round of shots for FVRCPC, Feline Leukemia, and FIP. If your kitten was wormed during his first visit, the vet will give him his second worming. If your kitten is at least 12 weeks old and spends time outdoors, he should also receive his first Rabies vaccine.

Your kitten's third visit to the veterinarian takes place when he is 10 to 16 weeks old, when he will receive his third FVRCPC vaccine. Kittens who were too young for their first Rabies vaccine on their previous visit will receive it at this time.

The First Birthday Visit

After completing his third set of FVRCPC vaccines, your kitten will not need any more injections until he is 1 year old. At that time he will need Rabies and FVRCPC booster shots. If the Rabies shot is given to your cat within 1 year of his first Rabies vaccine, it will be good for 3 years. Your cat will need to return each year, however, for the FVRCPC vaccine. When your cat is 1 year of age, he will also receive boosters for FIP and Feline Leukemia if he received these vaccines as a kitten.

Rare Side Effects

Most of the time vaccines are quite safe, yet occasionally side effects can occur. Vaccines for Feline Leukemia can sometimes cause a form of cancer at the site of the injection. For this reason veterinarians usually do not recommend the vaccine for cats who are not at risk. A tumor can sometimes occur at the site of other vaccinations, as well. This type of tumor can often be removed before it spreads. Should you notice a lump developing at the injection site, call your veterinarian without delay. These lumps usually are a simple allergic reaction to the injection, but a lump can develop into a tumor, which, if caught early, can be successfully removed.

The risk of catching a disease without vaccinations is much higher than the risk of side effects. Just as with humans, shots are an unpleasant, but necessary part of growing up healthy.

Visit New Cat to learn more. Copyright 2005 Ron King. Ron King is a full-time researcher, writer, and web developer. This article may be reprinted if the resource box is left intact.

vaccination

Humane Dog Obedience Training Tips

2009-10-13T22:04:00.000-07:00

By Lisburn Hosten

Humane Dog obedience training works for the benefit of both your dog and you the adoptive family. Let's face it, you want your dog to behave when people are around, come when he is called, and walk properly on a leash. Wouldn't it be great if you could teach your dog all these things at home without having to pay a professional dog trainer to do it for you? Very often new dog owners are so involved and overwhelmed in the day-to-day work, that they lose sight of dog training their dogs good manners.
The most common and easy type of dog obedience training to put into practice is the reward-based. Time to achieve success is determined by a combination of factors such as environment, evolution, the breed of dog and the owner’s commitment to training. Start the training by telling your dog to sit down and rewarding it for doing it. Say your SIT command and help him, by gently and perhaps very briefly helping him to sit. To train the dog with a treat, hold the treat and move it over the dog's head first. Often, this will cause the dog to sit down while watching the treat you are holding over its head. By practicing this many times, this will force the dog into the habit of sitting down to continue looking at the treat or the object that it wants.

By dog obedience training, you are making sure that the animal always responds in a positive way to your commands without losing calm and developing unsocial behavior. Training should always be done in a positive manner. Your dog will learn better this way and it will make the training more fun for both of you. If you are shouting negatively at your dog, it will actually be more afraid of you and will not come at all, and this you don't want to happen. Try not to get angry if your dog does not respond because by not getting angry, you teach him that you are a friend he can trust and build a bond with.
It is also important to understand that dogs move in packs and that they usually have a pack leader, whom they respect, and who is responsible for order and feeding in the pack. . By understanding the pack instinct in dogs and communicating in a respectful way with your dog, you can achieve a change in your dog behavior. During the course of this dog obedience training, concise command will make it clear to your dog that you are the boss, the alpha dog and the master in the pack.

Regular exercises, especially after meal, will help your pet create the best responses to stimuli .This also gives your dog opportunity to interact with strangers and other dogs. Basically teaching your dog a trick means achieving a dog obedience training goal, lots of skills may be developed such as scent detection, fetch commands and even criminal apprehension. Crate training must also be considered. Beware that if you give in and let him sleep with you in bed once, you should be prepared to do that all the time even when he grows up.
I hope this little article has been helpful to shed in your dog obedience training endeavor.
If you would like to discover a positive and fun system for dog obedience training , I highly recommend you visit http://dogobediencetraining-1.blogspot.com and get started today.

obedience training

How to Create The Ultimate Hamster Cage?

2009-10-11T23:02:00.000-07:00

By Vishal Aggarwal

The choice of cages available for hamsters today is extremely vast. You have simple metal cages, tanks, novelty cages and expandable cages. You also have the option to build your own cage. So just how do you know which one to choose for your hamster and how can you create the ultimate hamster cage?

Understanding the Different Cages

Before you can make a good decision about the type of cage that you should use for your hamster, you first need to understand the benefits of each one that is available.

Standard wire cages tend to be quite popular because they are inexpensive, they are strong and they are fairly easy to clean. They tend to consist of a plastic removable bottom and the sides and top of the cage are made from metal bars. Another reason why these types of cages are so popular is because the hamster can climb up the bars which gives them a little exercise as well as something to do. You can purchase metal cages with accessories inside them and with tubes that lead out of the cage and then back in again or you can purchase them on their own. The brand to look out for if you are looking for a good quality metal cage is "Ferplast".

Novelty cages and expandable cages are definitely two of the most popular types of hamster cages available today. This is especially true if the hamster belongs to a child. Novelty cages basically involve cages that are shaped in some kind of theme. It could be a space theme for example and everything in the cage would be designed to suit that theme. Expandable cages can also be classed as novelty cages as they are really fun to build. They come with tubes to connect the cage to another one. The most popular range of expandable cages is either "Habitrail" or "Rotastak".

Tanks are not really the best choice for hamsters but you could use them if you wanted to stop them making a mess around the cage.

Generally it is always better to personalise your hamster cage to your individual hamster. Creating your own cage can be extremely fun and your hamster will really appreciate it. Of course you could always build a cage from scratch but that would take a lot of time and effort. So if you want to create the ultimate cage but you want to use existing cages to help you, then stick with the expandable cages. You can choose from hundreds of different compartments and you can join everything together with tubes. No two expandable cages will look the same!

When creating the ultimate cage for your hamster you should include plenty for them to do. All hamsters love wheels and going through tubes so include at least one wheel and plenty of tubes and ladders. Don't clutter the cage too much and give the hamster as much space as possible.

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Overall, choosing the perfect hamster cage is easy once you know what to look for. Expandable cages do allow you to create your own personalised cage by connecting various compartments together. So if you are looking to create the ultimate cage then why not take a look at the ever popular expandable and novelty cages available today.

pet cage

How To Spot A Fake Pug Breeder

2009-10-07T22:10:00.000-07:00

A new family pet is a big decision and the process you use to get that new pet is important. If you have made the decision that a Pug is what you want as the new family pet then the next thing you need to do is learn some ways of spotting a fake Pug breeder so that you do not wind up doing business you will regret later. There are questions you can ask and tools you can use to spot a fake Pug breeder and as a new owner it is your responsibility to make sure that you are making the right decision.

A breeder registry is an organization that sets breeding standards from years of experience and then they allow breeders to list with their registry as long as those breeders agree to follow the registry's standards. If the Pug breeder you are considering is not listed with a breeding registry then it may be a sign that they could be a fake Pug breeder.

Your best resource for information regarding your pet is your vet. If you do not already have a vet picked out then the best time to choose one is during the breeder selection process. Your vet should be able to let you know which Pug breeders you are considering are legitimate and which ones to avoid. Your vet can also give you more ways to determine the validity of a breeder that can help you narrow down the field even further into a list of breeders you should be able to trust. Never underestimate the value of the information your vet can provide.

Local law enforcement is going to also be a resource for valuable information in the search for the perfect Pug breeder for you. If you are considering a Pug breeder that has a track record with the local law officials then it is probably a good guess that you want to avoid that particular breeder at all costs. Many people neglect to check with law enforcement before making this important decision, don't you make that mistake.

Of course to really get a feel for whether or not the Pug breeder you are considering is a fake or not will require talking with the breeder directly to see what their procedures are like. A good breeder will make sure that a new owner leaves with detailed care and feeding instructions for caring for your new dog along with a food sample so you know what to feed your dog. If this is not the policy of the Pug breeder you are considering then it may be time to consider looking at a different Pug breeder.

Every step you take in getting a new pet is very important and that includes deciding on which Pug breeder you will be doing business with. Making sure you are only talking to qualified breeders is an important thing to do and you should be sure to take every precaution in your search for a Pug breeder and make sure you eliminate all of the undesirable candidates right away.

By Jenny Donaldson

Dog Mating - Why Do Dogs 'Tie'

2009-10-06T23:26:00.000-07:00

There is one thing you must never do - attempt to separate two dogs mating. It will appear as if they are stuck together. Commonly what happens after mating is the male will twist around so that the two animals are facing in opposite directions. They will be tied together. They may be whining as if they are in distress. Don't be alarmed the animals are going through the mating process in the natural way. If you try to separate them it may cause them injury. Be patient and keep the dogs calm. They will separate after about twenty to thirty minutes.

Because of the way dogs mate it is almost impossible for the bitch not to be impregnated. When the dog mounts the bitch the penis is not erect. The reason that penetration is possible is due to a tiny bone in the penis. This bone is known as the baculum. It is the baculum that keeps the penis rigid. At the base of the penis is tissue. Blood enters the tissue and it becomes swollen. Essentially the penis becomes trapped inside the female dog. This is when the tie happens. The two dogs remain tied until ejaculation has ceased and the swollen tissue shrinks back to its normal state.

If you have never witnessed two dogs mating you can rest assured that this is quite normal. In fact, if the tie did not occur you should be concerned. The tie is simply nature's way of ensuring the sperm enters and stays in the vagina. Nature doesn't leave anything to chance and gives the female the best chance to become impregnated. There is another reason for the tie taking place. A bitch in season will very often attract more than male. It is not uncommon for a bitch to have a number of dogs around her. The tie makes sure the process of mating is not stopped by other males trying to mate with a bitch in season.

It's very important the dogs are left to separate without intervention. If they panic and try to rip apart they probably will be hurt. There is more chance of a dog becoming distressed during the tie period if it is a first mating experience. The best you can do is to sit with the dog speaking in a calm low voice so that the animal remains passive and calms down as quickly as possible.

By Rob Borket

Choosing the Right Allergy Medicine Treatments for Your Dog

2009-10-05T21:26:00.000-07:00

Your dog can suffer just as much as you do from allergies. One look at your puppy's runny eyes, red ears and flaky skin can let you know there's a problem it’s important to have a veterinarian examine your dog to rule out thyroid disease or other types of problems; but often allergens are the culprit.

Allergy medicine for your dog is available. There are to two major types: corticosteroids and antihistamines. A look at each of the types will give an overview of the benefits and drawbacks of these treatments. There also are other, non-medicinal ways to reduce your pet's allergy suffering.

Corticosteroid

Prednisone is one commonly used corticosteroid for dogs. This type of allergy medicine for your dog works well and fast. However, there are a number of side effects, some of which are mild but others that are potentially lethal. Corticosteroids can possibly suppress your dog's immune system. Short-term use of this allergy medicine for your dog is okay but long-term use should be avoided. Give these drugs in as low of a dose as possible.

Antihistamine

Antihistamines are a much safer allergy medicine for your dog than corticosteroids. But it may take a while to find the most effective type for your dog. Also, antihistamines will probably have to be administered to your dog several times a day. Giving pills to your dog is not fun, and doing it three times a day can become a real chore. Antihistamines can also make your dog drowsy and may not work for all dogs, and some experts say antihistamines only work in 20-30% of dogs.

Non-medicinal treatments

supplementing the allergy medicine for your dog that you decide on with non-medicinal treatment has shown benefits. Often, changing your dog's diet can help as your dog could have a food allergy but this is hard for veterinarians to diagnose. The best way to figure out what's irritating your dog is by process of elimination. Switching to a high quality, all-natural dog food could be what is needed.

Bathing you dog frequently can also help supplement an allergy medicine for your dog. Use a shampoo with all-natural ingredients, like oatmeal and aloe Vera. A bath can help soothe your pet's irritated skin and cut down on the amount of medicine your dog needs.

Helping your dogfight his allergies can improve his quality of life. Finding the right allergy medicine for your dog, whether it's antihistamines or corticosteroids is important. The right medicine along with non-medicinal supplemental treatment can aid your dog tremendously.

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By trinity.services019

Shih Tzu breed

2009-10-05T00:29:00.000-07:00

Shih Tzu is also popularly known as small lion. The Shih Tzu breed is originally from Tibet. However, the Shih Tzu breed is associated largely with the China where, they revered as palace pets and were taken as prized companions. Shih Tzu breed is affectionate, happy and active dog breed.

Living conditions

Shih Tzu is perfect for an apartment life. They are hardly active indoor, so they will be fine even without a yard. However, the Shih Tzu breed is heat sensitive.

Their temperament

Firstly, Shih Tzu breed is more of a companion than pets. They just love staying indoors all the time with a family. They easily get along with the children and other pets too. They are all self-assured, alert, keen and outgoing. Shih Tzu breed makes perfect watchdogs. Shih Tzu breed is also a docile, loyal, and calm breed preferring the couch or your lap, as opposed to staying outdoors. Because Shih Tzus are house pets; they should NEVER be left outside in the weather elements.

Shih Tzu breed and care

Shih Tzu breed needs a lot of grooming. They require brushing everyday in order to prevent mats, knots and tangles. Shih Tzu breed also needs regular bathing - weekly to bi-weekly. They are not suitable to humid type of climate. Keeping their ears and eyes clean is necessary and important. They are prone to wheezing and snoring problems. Their dental hygiene too is important as a prevention from any tooth loss. As they gain pounds easily, they should not be overfed.

Coat

Shih Tzu generally has dense, long and double coat. The coat could be so much so profuse and luxurious outer that it could sweep the ground. At times, the coat of Shih Tzu could also be a bit wavy. The texture of the under coat is soft. Usually, the hair on the head top is placed into topknot for prevention of eye irritation. Shih Tzu coat could vary in the color largely. They are thought to be minimal shedders also are considered as hypo allergic.

Training and Shih Tzu breed

Shih Tzu breed are not difficult to house train. Persistence is the key to house training. For them, Shih Tzu breed, crate method could be the best. Shih Tzu breed is always ready to learn quickly and more than willing to please their human family. Shih Tzu breed is certain to do great in its obedience training, provided there is some motivation.

By jchain814

Pet Care - Dog Grooming

2009-10-01T23:12:00.000-07:00

For many of us our pets are part of the family and, as with our children, we want them to be well behaved, clean and groomed. We all want our dog to be obedient, well-groomed and friendly and that is part of the reason why dog grooming centres and doggie day care places have become so popular in the last few years.

Deciding to get a dog isn’t just a matter of walking him around the block a few times a week. To keep him your dog healthy he will need friendly nature, lots of exercise, care and grooming. Deciding to welcome any kind of animal into the family brings with it certain responsibilities, such as who will take care of him if you have to go away for a few days, and keeping up-to-date with vaccinations.

A dog will need a lot of love attention. If your dog is a puppy you will need to take time to house-train it, get it to walk on a leash and of course play with it. If you have a puppy you will need to take time every day training it to sit and walk to heel, as well as toilet training. To play with your puppy is also very important and they will never tire of it. If you have a long haired breed you need to take care of it by showering and trimming at least once a week to prevent matting and remove dead hair, whereas a short haired breed are generally low maintenance which might suit you if you have less time to devote to their care.

Grooming your dog is an important part of looking after your dog’s health; it usually involves cleaning his ears, combing his hair and giving him a bath. Pedigree dogs, such as a West Highland white terrier, American cocker or schnauzer or shih-Tzu, will require regular grooming and trimming and the dog’s nails might also need clipping. You can find cleaning tools from your local pet store, or consider taking your dog to doggy day care for a special treatment.

Your dogs coat will look healthy and gleaming if you groom it frequently and it also provides a way to show affection. The dog will appreciate the attention as it demonstrates your affection to it. This is also a good time to check his skin for ticks, cuts or any likely skin diseases only noticed on closer examination.

For those of you who like to groom your dog yourself then combs, shampoo and other basic equipment can be bought at your neighbourhood pet shop. Flea powder, a hair comb, special dog shampoo and nail clippers should be enough for most dogs. If you have a long-haired dog then a trip to the local doggie beauty salon once a month for a full treatment could save you a lot of time and effort.

Check out the grooming centre near to you to see how they operate. A reputable dog groomer should be able to advice you on the types of treatment that your dog will need or benefit from. The centre should be clean and hygienic and a place where you would feel comfortable placing your dog in their hands. A professional dog groomer will have qualifications and experience. Certificates should be out on display for you to see and the staff will have a good attitude towards the animals brought in.

By Michiel Van Kets

The Pet Adoption Procedure

2009-09-30T23:13:00.000-07:00

Pet adoption agencies are unfilled throughout the United States and it is a superb way to get your own pet. The adoption agencies in the U.S impart homes for the pets brought from animal rescues, animal shelters and humane societies. Some pets are brought their due to ill cure by the pet owners or would have got engrossed having not having a family. Many of the pets adoption agencies work over time to find a constructive mixture for the U.S pet population concern. They work hard in ruling adoptable pets and suggest them caring and loving family homes.

The websites of the pet adoption agencies supply the impending pet parents to quest for a pet of their decision lacking any neediness of departure to chaotic and loud locales. You can quest for your preferred pet of any breed, magnitude, age, and sex and even from any definite organization from where the pet came before it made its way to the adoption outfit. The websites have pages that record photos of the animals untaken by the agencies with their names, their place of birth or from where they came to such related information along with their preferences. Information liked vaccinations, intake practice, likes and dislikes and vigor conditions are all unfilled preceding to pet adoption.

If you are not in a locate to adopt a pet but you affection pets and want to help them, then you can remit your donations to the pet adoption agencies. They forever receive volunteers for portion the in navy like pet adoption, administrative buttress, and marketing and store raising trial. There are many programs that simplify pet lovers to play with pets for certain duration of hours. This examined is existing especially to help those pets that are homeless and mistreated previous, for expenses time with loving and caring humans. All the pet adoption agencies provide help and extend their provision for the families who have adopted pets freshly and for pet adoption seekers. They offer guidance on what kind of pet can become your family and in-house education. They counsel you about separation worry, crucial techniques on obedience, introduction of new pets and how to adjust the new pet with additional pets in your home.

You have manifold benefits in adopting a pet, which was already owned. By adopting a pet you are generous an ability to the pet to live with committed parents in a delighted home. Many pet animals when adopted cultivate to be closer with your family. Initially after pet adoption some pets will be alert and tentative but they will change along with time when they fulfill that they have actually been rescued it. When you adopt a pet it will reward you with the satisfaction that you have helped your area by some means. Though pet adoption is a duration commitment it will not be that hard for you. All these unfortunate pets are waiting at an unplanned to reach with your loving families to take nurture of them very well. You always have this option of adopting a pet and a pet will make your family achieve. Pet adoption is vacant not only for cats and dogs but you can also adopt pets like bunny rabbits, rats, hamsters, gerbils, guinea pigs and some varieties of birds.

By Julia

Brining A Puppy Into Your Home

2009-09-29T23:31:00.000-07:00

Brining a puppy home for the first time is both a hugely rewarding experience and a demanding one. There are many great hints, tips and suggestions about bringing a new puppy into your home. The article below looks at the basics of puppy care especially in the early days when you introduce it into your home.

1) Vaccination Time - Vaccinations should be administered to every dog to minimize risk of serious illness and disease. Before you even get your puppy, it should already have been given it's basic shots. Speak with the breeder when purchasing your puppy to obtain records of what vaccines have been administered and when they were done.

2) Feeding Time - Puppies should be fed puppy food and not standard dog food. Puppy food contains protein and nutrients essential for a growing puppies development.

3) Train Early - Training a new puppy is relatively easy when comparing it to training an older dog. Puppies are pretty receptive to training and therefore training should begin as soon as possible. Basic commands like stay and sit should be taught as well as toilet training.

4) Sleeping Arrangements - You should show the new puppy it's sleeping location just after you bring the puppy home. Choose a location where you will have the dog sleeping for the rest of it's life. It is often hard to change a sleeping location once a dog has been shown this. So if you don't want your dog sleeping on your bed with you every night, you should not invite it up onto the bed when it is a puppy.

5) Socialization - Once the puppy is old enough, socializing is a must. Introduce your puppy to other puppies and people to help the dog with meeting new people and animals.

These simple puppy tips and tricks can help ensure a successful transition from your puppy into a mature and confident dog. These tips will also help your family cope with the new arrival and the pressures that a new puppy can bring.

By Dan Fletcher

Basic Labrador Training Tips For New Owners

2009-09-29T01:13:00.000-07:00

Though most of them are fluffy and cuddly like stuffed toys, dogs will not survive on hugs, kisses or cuddles alone. Owners and potential owners must know (yet others fail to realize) that having a dog is a serious committment. You do not bring home a labrador just to cuddle and play. You must be willing to provide care, grooming, labrador training and other things a labrador needs in order to grow healthy and happy.

Although the labrador is intelligent as a breed, labrador training can be a bit challenge to first time lab owners. But with proper training tips and advice, training a labrador may not be as difficult as what it seems to be.

Positive method. A labrador is a strong and large breed with generally good temperament. Unsurprisingly, positive training method works best for this breed. Using positive reinforcement such as praise and treats can be way effective than training based on punishment.

Short and fun training sessions. Dogs, especially puppies have short attention span, thus it is always recommended to keep the training sessions short and interesting. Training should last around 15 minutes and must include challenging activities to keep his mind and body working. Reward him with praise or treat every time the session ends so that he will associate the training with something rewarding.

Communication. Training a dog is actually more on communication. In order to achieve positive result in training, one must be able to communicate well with the pet. Naturally, dogs do not talk the way humans did. They communicate through body signals and expressions - owners must try to understand that. A dog that is ill, confused, nervous or excited will not learn efficiently so watch out for signs.

No punishment required. While training a dog can be sometimes frustrating and giving punishment can be so tempting, punishing a dog is not really a desired and effective form of training method. In fact, it will do more harm than good so avoid it as much as possible.

About the Author:
Richard Cussons is a dog enthusiast who loves to share labrador training tips. Find out more labrador training advice at labradorsavvy.com.

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com
Start early. Although you can still teach old dogs with new tricks, it is always a great idea to start training your pup as soon as possible. Puppies at six to eight weeks of age can start learning commands however, socialization should start earlier.

Essential Pet Supplies Required For Pets

2009-09-24T23:39:00.000-07:00

Pets bring joy to us and drive away our dullness and troubles. You can have a dog, a cat or any other animal as your pet. But the most important thing is the manner in which you treat your pet. It helps bring a huge difference in your relationship with them. Raising a pet is definitely an uphill task. It is considered as hard as bringing up your own children.

Your pets must be provided all the comforts needed and their needs should be attended to and fulfilled. Pets are supplied with many kinds of items required for their healthy growth by the wholesale pet suppliers.

Pet owners should see to it that their pets are made to feel good and given comfort in aspects such as health, entertainment, discipline, grooming etc. If your pet happens to be a dog, you must regularly give it a bath to keep it clean and hygienic, take him out for long walks as it will help it in getting proper exercise, make sure that you take it to the veterinarian for regular check-ups, provide it with a good and balanced diet. It is a prolonged list of tasks.

Whichever animal your pet may be, it is a must that you give them proper attention, entertainment, health care and much more. You can make these duties more convenient for you with the help of wholesale pet supplies where you can get nutritional and healthy food, bones and chews, grooming items such as shampoo, brushes, combs, dryers etc.

Another must for cats and dogs are training equipments. You can find them here at the pet supplies store. Flea and tick control products are considered to be a must, in case your dog or cat is too furry. You can find a wide range of pet's necessities for your pet at these stores.

Pets usually like to sleep a lot. And while doing so, they like to snuggle under their beds and have a peaceful sleep. Suitable, cozy and comfortable beds can be found for your pet at these stores. After visiting the wholesale pet supplies store, you will have definitely pushed the urge within your heart, of owning a pet, even if you don't have one now.

Most people consider their pets to be a part of their family. They even sometimes treat them like children too. But, taking care of a pet can sometimes get very expensive, if it gets sick or is need of medical attention.

However many methods can be applied to save money on these supplies. Coupons are generally considered in such cases. Online coupon websites and newspapers are considered for coupons for pet food, treats, and medication. Pet supply stores send coupons to attract customers to their stores. Another effective method of buying using coupons is buying in bulk. Large quantities of dog food are generally less expensive than small quantities.

You can also look up for free samples of treats in pet stores and pet supply discount shops. You will be informed about the coupons on websites that will available for discounts. You can take your pets to local pet fairs and pet events in the community. Booths are set up by suppliers through which they will pitch their products and will have samples.

Pet supplies such as crates, dog beds, leashes and many more can be found on Craigslist or eBay. People can advertise their things which they can give away in a free section that can be found in Craigslist. These people occasionally give away their pet's belongings instead of throwing them into the trash, as they no longer have a pet. Local Goodwill Stores is another place where you can look for discounted pet supplies

By Sarah Jose

Pet Training Tips: For Dog Owners

2009-09-24T02:47:00.000-07:00

It can be a great feeling being the owner of a dog they can bring you joy and companionship and you will always have someone to come home to after a hard day at work, there is nothing better than being greeted by a wagging tail and a happy face! But are you in need of some pet training tips? When you have a dog, no matter what breed you own, it is important that your pet is well trained and behaved, and that is why it is important to begin pet training as early as you can. Your dog needs to learn pet training tips such as; house breaking, walking on a leash without pulling and coming back to you when you call him. These are all basic obedience traits that your dog needs to adopt in order to be well trained and easier to look after.

Here are some pet training tips that you should remember before you begin training your dog:

1. Try not to ask your dog to do anything that he can evade. If your dog gets frustrated by you being strict and commanding, then your dog will see this as a negative thing, so you must try to respect your dog’s behaviour and act correctly at the early stages of pet training.

2. Always remember to praise or reward your dog for any good performances that he does. This is a very important pet training tip that you must follow strictly in order to boost your dog’s confidence and so that your dog will be more willing to follow instructions that you give him and he will also develop a good relationship with you. Doing this will lead to good habits in your dog’s behaviour.

3. Try never to punish or tell your dog off during training because a punishment will act as a negative for your dog and you will find that he might not want to listen to what you are saying. Praise him for the good things he does instead.

4. Make sure to penalize your dog. This means that you should issue your dog a penalty which might be anything that your dog does not enjoy, such as ignoring him or maybe a leash jerk when he is not walking like he should on his leash remember, this is not a punishment it is a simple prod in the right direction.

By Mike Hickmon

Dog Grooming Tips - Save Money on Your Dog Grooming Bills

2009-09-24T00:53:00.000-07:00

Not everybody can afford to pay a few hundred dollars per month to cover the pet's grooming costs. Here are some dog grooming tips that can help you enjoy your pet's look without having to pour money into other people's pockets. The breed is important as well as the anatomical structure because every dog has different needs according to these two elements.

Brushes have to be well chosen to match the hair thickness and length. Maximum two brushes should do for regular brushing. For a good choice, read some dog grooming tips related to coat care specific for your dog's breed. Check pictures and then find the items either at the local pet store or directly online from various dealers.

You can also learn how to clean the pet's ears by reading professional dog grooming tips. Hair, wax and dirt make a very unpleasant combination building up in the ear canals and thus reduce the auditive acuity of your pet. The hair needs to be carefully pulled out frequently, so that wax does not build up on it. Use some special accessories that you put on the fingers when gripping this hair, because both scissors and the naked fingers can cause damage to the tissues.

One other challenge is trimming toenails, but dog grooming tips could save you from a lot of trouble here too. Pet owners hate long claws because dogs can cause damage to the floors and carpets by scratching. Some medium clippers should do to help you cut the nails without injuries. Ask your vet for nail trimming recommendations too.

Pay special attention the eyes as well, particularly stains appear under the eyes because of tears. While some breeds are prone to tearing, with others, tears are a sign of an existent medical condition. A bit of hydrogen peroxide in warm water should reduce the discoloration on light colored dogs but you have to be extremely careful and not get too close to the eyes. This is not a standard dog grooming solution, but rather an improvisation that could prove a very bad idea on certain occasions.

Otherwise, with a little care and interest, you can implement many dog grooming tips successfully for your pet's well being. Keep in mind the fact that grooming needs to be performed regularly, and that you should have time to take care of it every week. The condition of the hair and the nails rapidly deteriorates without proper care and you will notice the difference that comes with this kind of negligence.

By Dani Waser

GPS Dog Collars

2009-09-22T00:39:00.000-07:00

Dog collars are an absolute necessity to keep a dog under control. There are many different kinds of dog collars available today. A basic collar is priced at around $5 while a personalized designer collar would cost around $50 or more, depending on the options available.

Electric collars are the latest advancements in dog collars. These come with various options for training and controlling the dog from a distance without actually touching the dog. They can be operated from anywhere and are ideal for dogs that need constant attention. There are also electric collars that can control a dog’s bark.

GPS dog collars are the latest advancement in collars. These collars are embedded with GPS technology that helps the owner to trace the dog anywhere in the world. This technology works on a sophisticated satellite communication system. A GPS dog collar has a GPS modem, and a receiver with software incorporated into the system. This enables the owner to track the dog using a mobile phone or cell phone.

When the owner dials the telephone number of the GPS service provider, the location of the dog is sent to the mobile phone through an SMS over the GSM (Global System for Mobile Communication) network. A SIM card is inserted into the collar and can be reached from a mobile phone. Any kind of SIM card can be used. GPS dog collars can also be configured to work with the Internet. The location of the pet can be tracked from specific websites. The activity of the dog at the time of tracking can also be tracked. GPS dog collars have frequencies ranging between 900 MHz and 1900 MHz.

Some GPS collars are also used to compel the dog to go back home when he wanders away. The collar contains a device that is set with the maximum distance the dog can go from home. Once the dog crosses that distance, the collar emits a disturbing ultrasonic sound, which gets louder as the dog wanders further away. This would compel the dog to head back to its master.

GPS dog collars are compact, lightweight, waterproof and easy to use. The collar weighs around 250 grams without the belt. There are many manufacturers of GPS dog collars. The price of a GPS collar starts at around $1,000.

By Kevin Stith

Pet Medicine

2009-09-17T23:14:00.000-07:00

Veterinary medicine is probably as old as the bond between man and animal. However, the past few years has seen an incredible growth and awareness in this area. Veterinary medicine refers to medical, therapeutic, and diagnostic principles that are applied to all animals - whether they are domestic or wild. Pet medicine is confined to these applications only for domestic animals.

Today, animal care and medicine could apply to advanced medication and techniques like root canals, insulin shots, cataract operations, or even pacemakers. All this is a result of ongoing chemical, pharmacological, and biological research in the veterinary field. Important subject areas in which degrees can be obtained today are animal biochemistry or breeding, veterinary anatomy, animal feeding and nutrition, animal physiology, virology, microbiology, pharmacology, and parisitology. Admissions into veterinary schools are very competitive - sometimes just one in three applicants is accepted, with the prerequisites of intensive hand-on practice.

Like doctors do with humans, veterinarians prescribe the necessary medicines and dosage for pets. The medicines could be supplied from a clinic or a vet might write a prescription for you to pick the medicines up at the local pharmacy. You must keep your pet on the prescribed medicines for the entire duration prescribed. Medicines could be of a preventive or curative nature. Some medicines have to be administered for the pet's entire life. Vitamins, supplements, and special formulas can all be prescribed for your pet's well-being.

Make sure when you get your pet his medicine that you check the labels carefully for the expiration date. Medicines at home, too, should be checked periodically and out-of -ate medicines should be disposed of.

Daily health additives for pets today include flaxseed oil to provide the necessary Omega-3, multivitamins for general health, and Vitamin B6, specifically as a natural histamine and anti-inflammatory treatment. Love, care, and the right medicines at the right time go a long way in keeping your pets in the best spirits.

By Alison Cole

Puppy Obedience Training

2009-09-16T23:12:00.000-07:00

Puppy obedience training is something that you can either conduct yourself or hire somebody to do, depending on your preference. Remember, training them right away after getting them is critically important.

If you wait to start and then attempt to change their actions later on you will be simply sending mixed signals, and they won't know what they did wrong. Often times people who first get a dog find their behavior problems cute and they let them slide.

When they try and crack down on them down the road the dog gets confused because they used to be allowed to do those things-why not know?

So what is the right way to do puppy obedience training? Should you hire a professional or attempt to DIY? The truth is, it just isn't that hard to train your dog when using the right techniques, and doing so yourself can save you some serious cash.

Consistency is key

Keep in mind that the most important part of puppy training is consistency. Make sure to use the same commands each and every time, because if you don't your dog will not understand what to do.

For instance, don't say "come" one time and "heel" the next, as your dog will not know what to do. Sounds obvious, but an important point nonetheless.

Avoid giving treats

Also remember to use some method to show them they've done something good. A common method is giving them a treat, but this isn't very effective because they will often times only obey you because they want the reward.

If you don't have a treat then they won't obey. For this reason clicker training is something many people like to do, because instead of giving them food you just click the clicker every time they do something good.

This works because the dog will come to associate the clicker with something good, and pretty soon will only look for that sound as opposed to a treat. The reason this is more effective than just praising them is that dogs hear you talking all the time, and therefore they won't necessarily associate you praising them with something good.

However, since they will only hear the clicker when they've done something right, they will instantly know it's a good thing and will start to listen for it after obeying; it basically takes the place of a treat. Sounds a little far-fetched, but using a clicker is very popular for one reason-it works.

Be positive

Be certain to stay positive with your dog. Don't ever be overly harsh because this rarely produces the results you want and they will come to resent you.

Make sure not to go too long per session, and a couple brief sessions work more effectively than having 1 long one with puppy obedience training. Younger dogs don't have much of an attention span and keeping it short helps them focus better.

By James Ericson

English Labrador Retriever

2009-09-16T00:56:00.000-07:00

The labrador retriever got famous in England during the year 1870 and it was during the year 1903 when the English Kennel Club tagged it as a breed popular as house pets. Later during the year 1917, this breed became popular at the American Kennel Club. Labrador retriever breed is the most famous and registered breed in United States as well as in United Kingdom. Popularity of this breed is increased due to its ability on field. Labrador Retrievers are well known and adjustable for tracking, hunting, retrieving, law work, narcotics work and also for spirited obedience. These are also adoptable for watch dog job, serving the blind, investigate and set free. Labrador retriever differs as per size as medium to large and they are athletes. English Labrador retriever dogs are solid and their skin coat is double layered that come in different colors, various shades of yellow, black and chocolate.

Labrador Retrievers are in two types namely the English Lab and the American lab. These are not considered as two separate breeds but have some differences in them. English Labrador retriever are shorter compared to American labs. They are very affectionate and have beautiful and expressive eyes. Labs have pendant ears that hang close to their head. Labradors have a thick powerful neck and their chest is a bit broad with a strong back. Tail of this breed is medium in size and distinguishable. The popularity of these breeds has increased due to their friendly nature. They are very loving, affectionate and clever dogs. This breed is loyal and full with character and gets along well with children. These dogs require a good set of people to take care of with time and love shown for them. Labs are a kind of breed that requires fewer efforts for training.

Labs respond in a best way to helpful reinforcements. English Labrador Retrievers are with friendly nature and thus they are not suitable for a safety guard purpose. These can be used as watch dogs as they display a good barking power as they see unfamiliar people coming close to them or approaching towards house. Labs can be very different and unhelpful if proper physical and mental motivation are not given or are kept alone for longer duration. These can proceed forcefully when they see other dogs particularly of same sex. In general this breed is one of the popular dogs allover and is liked by everyone. These dogs are very handy for indoor purpose and deal with good help outside too. The Labrador breed is a fun dog that likes to play all the time or get busy in something or the other. A regular walk or going for jogging along with these dogs is a kind of refreshments for them. No breed enjoys staying at home all the time. Swimming can be a good option for these dogs specially the younger ones. Keeping English Labrador retrievers is a good option for enjoyment as well as some security.

By John J. James

Cat Show

2009-09-14T23:58:00.000-07:00

If you do not have a pure bred cat, do not worry because you can still enter him in a cat show. Most cat fancy associations allow cats to be shown in one of four categories, Championship, Premiership, Kitten and Household Pet.

If you are interested in learning more about the world of cat shows, contact organizations such as Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA), the American Car Fanciers Association (ACFA), or the American Cat Association (ACA) for information about shows and local cat club chapters.

These organizations will be able to tell you how and when you can register for upcoming shows and give you all the details about fees, rules, and the different classes being judged. All feline registry associations have different guidelines, so do some research and ask questions about the rules, regulations, and requirements for any show in which you plan to participate.

So, what is the preparation that you need to make for the cat show? If you have decided to show your cat, take him to the vet for a complete checkup, and be sure he is up to date on all his vaccinations. Show organizers may ask you to provide proof that your cat has a clean bill of health.

The night before the show, bathe your cat and give him a good brushing so that his coat is tangle free and shiny. Ask a friend or relative to accompany you to the event and act as a helper whenever you need an extra set of hands. In addition to your cat and a large crate for him to be displayed in, you need to bring a litter box, food and water dishes, and grooming supplies.

Once you have arrived at the show location, you will be given instructions on what to do and assigned a place to set up. Follow the instructions you are given, but do not be afraid to ask questions if you are confused about something. Enjoy the show.

By Paul Kramer

Pet Vitamins

2009-09-14T01:04:00.000-07:00

You have probably all heard and read a lot of different information about health and nutrition for your dog. Commercial dog food companies realize that we want a nutritionally balanced, high quality food for our pets. After much study, we now have a better understanding of various ingredients that are beneficial and how these ingredients impact our dog's health. It has also been found that a high quality pet vitamin can be helpful in maintaining optimal health in dogs.

Certain minerals are crucial for things like the functioning of muscles and nerves, transporting oxygen in the blood, and formation of bone and cartilage. The two minerals required in the highest amount are Calcium and Phosphorous. These minerals work together in the body to grow and maintain the skeletal system. The important thing is the ratio of calcium and phosphorous to provide the best nutrition. Magnesium also works with calcium and phosphorous as well as Vitamin C, Vitamin E and potassium. Magnesium aids the body in absorbing the other vitamins and minerals. Potassium helps maintain the level of fluid and is also needed for enzymes, muscles, and nerves.

Some other important things you should look for in a pet vitamin-mineral supplement include, copper, iodine, zinc, selenium, manganese and iron. Although these minerals are required in lesser amounts, they are equally important.

Copper works as an antioxidant, as well as forming red blood cells and aiding in the development of collagen and connective tissue. Iodine is needed for the functioning of the thyroid gland and production of thyroid hormone. the thyroid gland regulates growth and metabolism. Iron and copper together produce hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the blood. Selenium is an antioxidant and zinc is beneficial for skin and coat.

For older dogs, a pet vitamin containing the supplements glucosamine and chondroitin can be extremely helpful in dealing with arthritis. These nutrients support joints and decrease damage to joint cartilage and are completely safe for your dog.

A high quality, all natural pet vitamin contains some other ingredients that provide health benefits for your dog. Some of these ingredients are not as familiar, but are helpful in keeping your dog as healthy as possible. Ingredients like kelp, seaweed, algae and brewers yeast are known as prebiotic and probiotic supplements. They provide natural sources of antioxidants and vitamins, and aid in digestion and absorption of nutrients.

Our pets are living a longer, better quality life than ever before. Now that we understand the importance of good nutrition, we can provide our beloved pets with the best quality food and pet vitamins available.

By Joseph M Sabol

Thoughts on Dog Training

2009-09-09T22:57:00.000-07:00

A diamond doesn't shine till its cut properly and gold doesn't glitter till its impurities are removed by burning. Likewise, a dog doesn't get smart till it undergoes proper training. Dogs have been very useful to man for ages. But training and properly domesticating the dog has a three-fold benefit. The master gets an obedient pet, the dog gets praised and pampered and last but not the least, it gives a sense of safety to others in the society.

Man and dog became friends since time immemorial but still today every man must build a strong bond with his dog so that the dog remains motivated to obey every single command unconditionally. Training a dog is very much rewarding. The owner gets the reward of freedom from the leash while walking the dog or making it stay calm. A trained dog will play with the kids without giving them a scratch. This attitude, if imbibed in the dog, would be a cherry on the cake.

Spare the rod and spoil the child has some application in dog training. With regular encouragement in the form of petty rewards, the dog starts enjoying every bit of its training. Obeying you would become a fun thing. By understanding this simple psychology, it can be made to understand that not a single bad behavior would be tolerated. This way the master finds relief and happiness in owning the pet.

Too much of anything is bad. Putting up a trend of rewarding the dog after every effort on its part makes the dog get conditional about every command. It may even harm someone if not rewarded immediately. So a very thin line has to be drawn between encouraging and rewarding. Regular petting, a few good words and a smile would be sufficient at times. The master often finds it confusing as to how much feeding would suffice and most of the masters dislike such flamboyance.

Clicker training may give some relief. A small toy that makes a clicking sound can be used for the purpose. Whenever the dog is fed with some goodies, sound a click with the toy. A great scientist successfully used this method to train his dog. Once your dog correlates the click sound with a reward or food, it shall also match the same with being nice.

Remember, Dog training is more fun than what it seems. So have fun with your dog. Good luck!

By Justin Robins

Animal Shelter

2009-09-09T01:30:00.000-07:00

Animal shelters were created to deal with the many animals and pets that have been either abandoned by their owners or abused and neglected. Many people rush to get pets especially puppies and kittens, however there comes a time when the animal is all grown and has lost the cute look and all its novelty that had made you choose that specific animal in the first place. This is when neglect checks in and maybe even abandonment, by leaving the animal at the side of the road or refusing to feed your pet causing it to end up thin and skinny. You might as well take the animal to a shelter if you have a heart.

It is good to donate some time or money to an animal shelter because they need it. The trained staff at the shelter looks after the animals and tries to rejuvenate the neglected animals and after the animal has been checked by the vet. The animals are treated by the vet and are then groomed and cleaned up. Many a times people will take care of their pets, but eventually the pet might just end up at the shelter.

When you discard your pet due to whatever reason you might think is a good excuse they usually end up at an animal shelter. These shelters usually provide good surroundings for the animals and a healthy atmosphere where they can get back to good health. There is an on call vet to watch the animal's health and to make sure they get back to their usual self. You can volunteer to help out at the shelter and donate your time or even equipment to help the shelter.

By Peter Gitundu

The Toy Poodle

2009-09-08T00:21:00.000-07:00

The poodle is the only breed that comes in three registered varieties. The three recognized types are the Standard Poodle, the Miniature Poodle and the Toy Poodle. The Standard Poodle is the largest of the three varieties, followed by the Miniature version and then the Toy version.

The puppy is considered to be a small dog of high intelligence. More sensitive than the Standard and Miniature varieties, it is also considered the smartest of the three. A member of the American Kennel Club Toy Group, the Toy Poodle weights between 6 and 9 pounds and is up to 10 inches tall. The toy poodle is one that is known for being smart, and intelligent.

The breed comes in a variety of solid colors, including blue, black, cream, brown, gray, silver and apricot. This is a dog that has long and floppy ears, sometimes they look a little too long for the small head that this dog has. They have a long, straight muzzle and bright, dark eyes. This dog is elegant in stature with its curly coat that can be groomed in different styles.

They are often "barkers," but with appropriate training the barkers can be curtailed. They do need to be socialized from an early age and can tend to be excessive barkers if not trained properly in this area.

Puppies do not like strangers and are reserved around children and other dogs. They generally bond with one owner for life and they are extremely loyal to that individual and will defend them at all cost, despite their size. However, a true "lap dog," the Toy Poodle expects an equal amount of loyalty and love in return.

People with allergies, respiratory problems, or even people with a disability that would find cleaning up after a dog difficult would love owning toy poodle puppies as this dog does not shed. However, all Poodles need a lot of grooming in order to keep them free of tangles. As the hair on the toy poodle is one that is curly, very curly and therefore, must be brushed and clipped on regular schedules to keep the hair from becoming messy.

The puppy is sensitive but extremely intelligent. They are very responsive and alert. The Toy Poodle needs people contact to balance and enjoy life. They do not do well all alone for long periods of time. The Toy Poodle can make a great family pet, a great show dog and performer. This can be very long-lived breed if given the appropriate care and may live longer than 15 years. An hour of daily exercise is necessary to do away with boredom and to add to physical fitness, in Toy Poodles.

By Amit Kumar Mishra

Perfect Dog Shampoo

2009-09-02T23:18:00.000-07:00

Finding the proper dog shampoo for your dog will help you out while you are washing your dog. Now if you have been down your pet stores aisle for shampoo and hair care products you will notice that the aisle has a multitude of products to use. You are probably like I was puzzled as could be about which one would help your dog out best. Here are some great tips that I have used in the past for picking out my shampoo for my dog.

The first thing that I always look for when looking at dog shampoo is what fur type the shampoo is made for. Now some dogs are curly, some are straight haired, and the various hair types do have different shampoo types that help them. I know that I have to get a different type of shampoo for my Yorkie-Poo than I do for my Lab.

After finding the shampoo that is for the hair type I am looking for then I determine which scent I like the most. Now some of the shampoos have no scent at all and if you have a dog that is allergic to certain scents then you might want to get a non-scented shampoo. However, I know that if you use some of the sweeter smelling shampoos your dog will smell good for about a week before needing another bath.

Now I do have a dog that has very sensitive skin to most shampoos. So if your dog is sensitive with his skin then you will need to find a shampoo that is meant for sensitive skin. Now that type of shampoo can be a bit more expensive, but is worth it for the comfort of your dog. Not only that you can also look into the hypo-allergenic shampoos they will typically help your dog out to with his sensitivity to certain types of shampoo. I know that I have used them on my dog before and helped prevent him from scratching constantly after his bath.

Picking out a good dog shampoo can be hard, but is not impossible. The first thing that you have to consider is what type of hair your dog has to determine the proper shampoo. Then you will want to find one that has a pleasing scent to you, obviously not one that will make you sneeze all the time. Then after you have found that you will want to see if you can find that scent in a hypo-allergenic shampoo or sensitive skin shampoo if your dog needs that type of shampoo. All things considered finding the proper shampoo for your dog will lead to a happier bath time for you and your dog.

By Kim L Smith

Dog Show Handlers

2009-09-01T23:16:00.000-07:00

If you are the owner of a pure bred dog then it may be that you would like to enter your dog for shows. Some people own dogs just for this reason rather than as a family pet. If you enjoy working with your purebred and decide that you want to train both the dog and yourself for shows then you will have to spend a good deal of time in preparation and discipline. If however, you think that your dog should be entered into the world of shows but do not have the time, experience or dedication necessary to train him, then you may consider hiring one of the many professional dog show handlers that are available.

Professional dog show handlers are highly experienced professionals who have often spent much of their lives working with the animals. They have a passion for their work and dedicate many hours to achieving good results at dog shows. They are competitive but will always have the welfare of the dogs foremost in their minds and will never let competition come before the dog's mental and physical health and well being.

Depending upon the breed of your dog, it is not too difficult to find professional dog show handlers who will be willing to assess your dog and let you know whether they feel that there is potential for showing. Do not be too alarmed if your pet is turned down as a show dog. There are many stipulations regarding the rules of the show ring and all these must be adhered to. Age, size and colouring are all considerations and obviously your dog must have all the necessary paperwork to prove identity, breeding and ownership. If the handler believes that your dog is a suitable candidate for showing then the hard work can begin.

Professional dog show handlers have to be in constant contact with your regarding the training and condition of the dog. They will teach you the best way to care for the dogs coat, teeth etc and will give you exercises for him which must be carefully followed so that you do not undo all the hard work that the handler puts in. You must do just what the handler tells you if your dog is going to make it in the show ring. Do not forget that a handler will charge quite a substantial fee to help you and your dog reach a high standard and you would be foolish if you did not follow up the advice that they give you. It may be that the dog will spend some time with the handler, especially during training time prior to shows. In the ring the dog must be highly disciplined and respond to the handler very strictly. This can only be achieved if the have a good relationship and this will mean spending a lot of time together.

By Wendy Pan

Rabies Vaccination For Dogs

2009-09-01T00:35:00.000-07:00

Though most people think of vaccines as safe and protective, vaccination is a serious medical procedure with significant risks. The rabies vaccine, the only pet vaccine required by law, is arguably the most dangerous inoculation given to dogs and cats -and we give it far more often than necessary to protect people and dogs. And did you know: a Chihuahua puppy gets exactly the same dose shot as an adult Great Dane? This increased antigen load in relation to body size likely exposes small dogs to even bigger health risks.

Immediate adverse reactions after vaccination are easy to spot: vomiting, facial swelling, fever, lethargy, circulatory shock, loss of consciousness and even death. Non-immediate reactions, occurring days or even months, after vaccination include:

- Fibrocarcinomas (cancer) at the injection site
- Seizures and epilepsy
- Autoimmune diseases, such as those affecting bone marrow, blood cells, joints, eyes, kidney, liver, bowel and the central nervous system
- Chronic digestive problems
- Allergies
- Skin diseases (small dogs are especially vulnerable to ischemic dermatopathy and panniculitis)
- Muscle weakness or atrophy, particularly lack of rear-end coordination
- Pica (eating inappropriate materials, including feces)
- Behavioral Problems: aggression, destruction, separation anxiety, obsessive compulsive behaviors like tail chasing or paw licking

Perhaps because it's required by law, few conventional vets warn about adverse reactions to this vaccine. For various reasons, delayed and unusual reactions are seldom reported to manufacturers or the FDA.

Given the risks...shouldn't we vaccinate only as often as necessary to protect dogs and people? Yes, but that's not what happens. Although blood antibody titer tests show that the rabies vaccine provides immunity for seven years, and a 1992 French "challenge" study proves at least five years of protection, most areas require vaccination of adult dogs every three years. Some U.S. localities require annual or biannual vaccination even though the "three year" shot is guaranteed by manufacturers to give three years of immunity. If that weren't bad enough, the three-year shot is often the one-year shot simply relabled to meet local requirements.

Can you avoid the rabies vaccine? If your dog has a well-documented history of health problems, and a low probability of contracting rabies, your veterinarian can apply for a deferral or exemption in many areas. A blood test for antibody titers (pronounced like tighter) showing strong antibodies to the disease may help your case, but will not by itself get you an exemption. Inexplicably, some vets refuse to apply for exemptions and some localities refuse to offer them. Ironically, strong titers, not repeated vaccination, are the only proof that a dog has immunity.

Incidentally, according to the CDC, rabies is no longer transmitted dog to dog in the United States. Your dog can contract rabies only from a wild animal such as a bat, fox or coyote.

By Jan Rasmusen

Labrador Retrievers

2009-08-26T22:25:00.000-07:00

Throughout the whole of the UK and the USA there is one dog amongst all the other dog breeds that stands head and shoulders above the others for popularity, the Labrador Retriever.

If you are fortunate enough to spend some time in the company of a Labrador Retriever you will soon discover why these lovable dogs are proving to be so popular. These dogs are friendly, playful, intelligent and loyal. Labrador Retrievers absolutely adore children and this is why families rate them as one of the best dog breeds around.

The Labrador Retriever is a fun loving breed, they enjoy the water either swimming in it or generally simply splashing around having a good time. Another reason that the Labrador Retriever is such an ideal choice for families is the fact that they are a dog that can just go on for hours, much like children! They love to play fetch and swim. They will keep your children entertained all day long as well as wear them out. Labradors have unparalleled energy. Some have even run until they have given themselves a heart attack. They simply don't know when they have given their all.

There are numerous dog breeds that make brilliant family dogs but none that are quite as good at filling the vacancy than the Labrador Retriever. These particular dogs do not simply just fill the gap in a family they become companions and friends. Any information on Labrador Retrievers will tell potential owners how mellow these dogs truly are, if you are considering a watchdog then a Labrador Retriever is probably not a good first choice. Intruders would just be covered in licks! They do possess quite a deep bark though and stand fairly tall and if the intruder pays no attention to their exceedingly waggy tail then they could feasibly be worried by a Labrador Retriever.

As far as dogs go the Labrador Retriever is an easy dog to train due to its intelligence. They are a breed of dog that simply loves to please its owner and make them happy and pleased with them. When compared with other dog breeds Labrador Retrievers do not shed as much fur as others, this is always a bonus.

If you read any dog information it will normally tell you of the biggest flaw the Labrador Retriever possesses, its appetite. These dogs are like dustbins on legs! They have a big appetite and are prone to gaining weight quickly. The trick is to monitor their food intake and also ensure they receive enough exercise. This is a clever dog though and will attempt bribery with its gorgeous big, brown eyes.

Labrador Retrievers are prone to several disorders that are associated with too much weight, as are most dog breeds. It is therefore imperative to watch their diet especially the amount of treats consumed. They are also prone to hip dysplasia, a disease that causes the joints to deteriorate. It is very painful for them and often fatal. It is important to have your dog screened for dysplasia before you take them home from the breeder.

The Labrador Retriever is a perfect addition as a family dog due to its incredible nature and temperament.

By John P Jackson

Puppies For Sale

2009-08-26T01:38:00.000-07:00

There's nothing like the joy of finding Havanese puppies for sale when you are looking for a wonderful pet for your family. These special little dogs are loyal and affectionate, and make the perfect addition to any family looking for an energetic but mild-tempered dog for their children. One of the most important things to remember when looking to buy a puppy is that any breeder offering puppies for sale should be able to produce proof that the puppies have been well cared for.

Even if you decide not to purchase a pup from a breeder, but rather from a private owner instead, you should still make certain that they have properly cared for their pups. All puppies require certain shots when they are a few weeks old, and should also be treated for worms. If a breeder or private owner cannot provide proof that their Havanese puppies for sale have received these, you may want to consider purchasing a pup somewhere else.

When looking for puppies for sale, it is a good idea to get a recommendation from a trusted veterinarian as to which breeders in your area are reputable. This is especially important if you are having your puppy transported in from out of state. If the puppies for sale were found online, you should call the Better Business Bureau in their area to make certain that no one has reported them for bad business practice.

If you are purchasing your new puppies from a private owner, there are still precautions you can take, even though you can't really call the Better Business Bureau. Call your local veterinarian to see if he or she has ever treated any of the puppies the owner is offering. Ask to see any and all medical records pertaining to the litter of pups you are choosing from. This is especially important if the pups look undersized, or ill fed.

There is a wealth of information available from your vet that will help you to recognize a healthy Havanese when you see one. These small pups should always have a nice, fluffy, clean coat, be fleshed out nicely by the time they are made available for sale and should be playful and energetic. A dog that does not have each of these qualities, can generally be considered an uncared for dog.

Havanese puppies for sale doesn't have to be a difficult process. As long as you have done everything you can to make sure that your puppy has been well cared for, then you can rest assured that you have chosen wisely. These puppies are wonderful dogs that require much the same care as any other small dog. Be sure that your dog is well fed, has regular vet checkups, and gets plenty of exercise; and you will help to ensure that you and your new dog have a long a happy life together.

By Fiona Kelly

Dog Vitamins

2009-08-24T22:02:00.000-07:00

Vitamins are very important to your dog's health. Their function is to help the body repair itself through cell reproduction, bone growth, nerve function, energy and amino acid metabolism, blood clotting, aid in vision, and much more. A prolonged deficiency in any of the vitamins can cause health challenges from dry skin, fatigue, and vomiting to more serious problems like seizures, heart and nerve diseases. In most cases, just choosing a variety of quality food sources will give your dog all the vitamins he needs to live a long happy and healthy life. Let's take a look at the two different types of vitamins: Water Soluble (All the B Vitamins and C), and Fat Soluble (Vitamins A, D, E, and K)

Water Soluble Vitamins

Let's talk a moment about water soluble B vitamins which are very important for a healthy nervous system, aiding the body in healing, and helping to convert food into energy. Signs of deficiency could be anything from weight loss, poor skin and coat, nerve damage, anemia, and heart failure. B vitamins are unstable and are destroyed when exposed to heat, they are also lost from the body when stressed, and since they can't be stored, they are flushed through the system quickly. These vitamins include: thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, pyridoxine, folic acid, cobalamin, and biotin. Vitamin C can be manufactured by the dog and supplementation is not necessary. However, aging and dogs under stress can benefit from having some extra C added to their diet.

Thiamin (B1) - Converts glucose to energy. Needed to jump start your dogs body. A must for proper function of the muscles and heart. Thiamine deficiency can result in a loss of appetite, spasms in the hind legs, heart and nerve disease. The best sources are found organ meat. Other sources are ground beef, chicken, turkey and brewer's yeast. Some even say that it makes a good flea repellent. Oxidation destroys thiamine and so supermarket pet foods are more likely to be thiamine deficient.

Riboflavin (B2) - Necessary for red blood formation. A deficiency can lead to improper growth, cataracts, and heart failure.

Niacin (B3) - Improves blood circulation, and aids in central nervous system functioning. A loss of appetite can mean a possible deficiency.

Pantothenic Acid (B5) -It is important for good immune system and adrenal function, and vitamin and food utilization. It is essential in fighting allergies, inflammations, asthma, and infections. Good for reducing anxiety and stress. Sometime allergy symptoms can means a deficiency in B5 as well as premature graying in young dogs, and hair loss.

Pyridoxine (B6) -Essential for the metabolism of protein. It is required in the utilization of some minerals for a healthy nervous system, red blood cell production, good brain function, and a strong immune system. Anemia, poor growth, artery disease, kidney stones are all signs of deficiency.

Folic Acid (B9) - Red blood cell formation, DNA synthesis, and protein metabolism depend on this vitamin. Anemia is a sure sign of deficiency. As well as, depression, anxiety, and birth defects

Cobalamin (B12) - Dry skin and coat.. This vitamin prevents nerve damage, aids fertility, and promotes normal growth and development. Also helps in the digestion of food.

Biotin - Biotin is involved in the metabolism of sugar and fat. It is essential for thyroid and adrenal health, a strong nervous system, healthy reproduction, healthy skin, and good muscle tone. It is necessary for utilization of fat, proteins, and carbohydrates in the body. Eggs are high in Biotin, However, raw egg whites contain and protein called avidin that depletes biotin. So it is a must to cook the eggs first.

By April Byrd-Kosberg

Pet Travel Carriers

2009-08-24T21:43:00.000-07:00

Whether you're taking a trip to your local veterinarian or a trip across country, how to transport your pets is always a consideration. The right pet travel carriers can make your journey less stressful for your beloved pets and less of a hassle for you. But what constitutes ideal dog carriers, cat carriers, and bird carriers? That depends upon your preferences, but there are many available from which to choose.

Pet Wheeled Carriers

Typically, a pet wheeled carrier has a handle that makes it easy to pull, and some convert to backpacks, car seats and beds. If you're looking for a multitasking wheeled dog carrier, make sure that it is soft sided, is ergonomically contoured with padded shoulder straps, and includes a safety strap that attaches to your dog's collar. Most importantly, be sure to purchase the proper size: small pet carriers are typically ideal for dogs up to 8 pounds; medium pet carriers are good for dogs up to 15 pounds; and large holds dogs up to 30 pounds. Keep in mind that the weight of your pet is not the only factor in choosing the properly sized pet carrier; the critical question you should ask yourself is whether or not your dog will be comfortable in the container.

While some pet wheeled carriers resemble luggage, others resemble baby strollers. You can find heavy-duty pet strollers that, like baby strollers, have push-button folding for flat storage. Look for a stroller that has both front and back zippered entrances, as well as a mesh ventilated pet compartment. For safety's sake, select one that has front suspension and locking brakes. Strollers are ideal for older or ill pets, and work well for puppies and kittens, as well as other small animals.

Front Pet Carriers

A front pet carrier is a styled like a vest, and allows you to carry your pet hands-free wherever you go. Pet front carriers are ideal for virtually any small animal, from dogs and cats to rabbits and ferrets. You can cuddle your pet in the kangaroo pouch of a pet front carrier and keep your animal close to your heart.

When shopping for a pet front carrier, look for one with adjustable shoulder straps, a waist strap for stability, a safety leash collar attachment, and a firm padded bottom to keep your pet comfortable. If your pet likes to "hang loose," models have openings for legs and the tail.

Pet Travel Carrier Totes

Today, of course, pet totes are all the rage, and you can choose from among any number of utilitarian or designer pet carriers. From those made out of straw to those made out of faux crocodile leather, there is a designer pet carrier to complement every outfit in your wardrobe. When shopping for a pet tote, make sure to select one that is easy to open and that has proper ventilation. Gripper feet on the bottom help keep the tote from sliding around, while an extra pocket comes in handy for holding pet essentials.

Bird Carrier

If you're a bird owner, have you ever considered taking your bird on an outdoor adventure? Backpack bird carriers are smaller than birdcages, but allow you to take your pet on hikes, bike rides, and boating trips, as well as to the veterinarian. When shopping for bird carriers, look for a strong, stainless steel cage with removable and replaceable perches. Make sure that the shoulder straps are padded for your comfort, and that the cage door loads from the back for extra safety.

Pet travel carriers are a necessity, but they can also add some style and adventure to your life. Best of all, you'll be able to take Max or Princess with you to more places than ever before!

By Chris Robertson

Obedience Club

2009-08-19T22:25:00.000-07:00

John's Natural Dog Training Company

John's Natural Dog Training Company was launched in 1991 to address the needs of dog lovers across the San Diego area and who wanted to have an accessible obedience school. The organization also serves as a club for pet lovers and is led by the father and wife team of John and Bonnie Rubin. The Rubins first formed Natural Pet Systems Inc in 1995 and this now serves as the organization’s parent company. Mr Rubin's experience in dog training has spanned for over 20 years.

John's Natural Dog Training Company is a certified company that focuses on the fundamentals of pet obedience. There are no fancy tricks and gimmicks here, as the company believes that the traditional dog training techniques remain the best practices.

Unlike other so-called certified dog trainers, John's Natural Dog Training Company is more than a club and does not depend on the written curriculum developed by other members of pet associations. The group highly regards the services it offers for the San Diego crowd and believes that it is one of the best dog training organizations in the State of California, given its 20 year experience in the industry.

The San Diego Labrador Retriever Club

The San Diego Labrador Retriever Club was established in February 1996 and its founding members were dog breeders in the San Diego County area that realized a need to organize a regional club. The club’s roster of members has sharply grown over the last seven years and it has already held its first ever Annual Specialty Show in November 2001.

The San Diego Labrador Retriever Club became sanctioned by the American Kennel Club in November 2000. The SDLRC aims to promote the importance of obedience and right training among dogs, especially Labrador Retrievers, and disseminating information about the wonderful breed and how to properly take care of them.

The SDLRC follows a Code of Conduct that is followed by its members and also serves as a guide to other dog owners, in order to properly take care of the breed.

The SDLRC primarily serves to promote and encourage the quality of breeding given to purebred Labrador Retrievers, to teach Labradors and push for their participation in different dog related activities.

By Kelly Jezek

Dog House

2009-08-18T23:05:00.000-07:00

If you are the type of person who are procrastinating in constructing a doghouse for your beloved pet dog, then summer is an appropriate time to start your project. All pet dogs need a place that can protect them from the changing elements like heat and rain. Dog owners should not worry because constructing a shelter for their pets is very easy.

REQUIREMENTS

The first thing that dog owners should do is to check their area for materials that they will need in building their pets home. Home improvement shops like Home Depot, offer step-by-step guides that you can refer to. Some shops also features on-site demonstration on how build one. You can also obtain the materials that you need in the junkyard in your area to save some money.

The next thing that you should always know is the size of your dog. It is very surprising how a lot of people do not measure first their dog before constructing a pet house. This is very important so that your dog will be comfortable in the house that you are building. If you are constructing a dog house for a puppy, make sure that it is large enough to compensate for its growth.

You also need to make sure that the roof of the house is not constructed in a slop position to prevent any insects like bees from nesting in it. It would be best to build a flat roof, since majority of dogs like to lie on the roof and soak up in the sun. But avoid using metal for your shelter since it soaks up heat quickly and can burn your dog who wants to sleep on the roof of the doghouse.

You also need to insulate the house that you are building according to what type of pet dog you have. If your pet has a thick fur like a German Shepard or Siberian husky, then the house would not need too much insulation. If your pet possesses short hair like a Chihuahua, then shelter will need more insulation.

You have to make sure that air can enter and exit the house freely and the shelter is ventilated. Utilizing breathable materials like wood will make it easier to live in. You can find scrap wood from your local lumberyard to save some money. The house should also have enough room so that your dog can freely play around.

Your pet house should also be tough especially during bad weather. It also needs to be durable to withstand the test of time. The floor of your doghouse should also be a few inches off the ground so that rainwater will be able to pass through freely under the shelter. The floor also needs to be very strong.

Pet owners should also make sure that the shelter is not place in the open where its temperature can be heated up easily during hot and dry months. It should be place under a shade so that your pet will always be comfortable.

The design of your pet house should be simple and not overly grandiose. It is not important to place a lot of blankets inside the shelter or place heating inside especially during cold months. But if you decide to place additional amenities then you should make sure that it is tough enough so that it will not destroyed in case your pet chews it.

Lastly, constructing a doghouse does not have to be complicated. Utilize a simple-to-follow guide to help you build your dream shelter. Aside from that, do not hesitate to ask for help if you know someone who is an expert in building an animal shelter.

By Kenny Leones

Dog Vaccinations

2009-08-17T20:13:00.000-07:00

My dog, Chase, is a "natural dog". He's on a raw diet. He takes herbs to boost his immunity. He has a traditional and a homeopathic veterinarian.

Recently, after he received his annual rabies booster, Chase contracted a urinary tract infection (UTI).

Off we went to the homeopathic veterinarian, who informed me that UTIs were common side effects of rabies vaccines. She also informed me that Chase only needed his rabies vaccine every three years, not every year, as my traditional vet had been doing. I was upset, wondering if Chase was being over-vaccinated.

I was not alone. Greater minds than mine have been studying the issue of dog vaccinations for decades.

Dr. Ronald Schultz is among the most noted. Schultz, chair of the Department of Pathobiological Sciences at the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Veterinary Medicine, has been studying dog vaccinations since the 1970s.

He says that back then they didn't know much about immunology. Research was based on observation. "Whenever a dog recovered from certain diseases I experimentally induced, I could never re-infect that dog," he says. "If natural infection causes lifelong immunity, I wondered why vaccines couldn't do the same."

Schultz discovered that some canine vaccines could provide lifelong immunity.

So, then, what's up with those postcards that arrive from our vet each year, reminding us that Fido is due for his yearly boosters?

According to Jean Dodds, DVM, president of Hemopet, a private, non-profit animal blood bank, yearly vaccine reminders are often sent to get people into the veterinarian's office for checkups.

"Some vaccines should not be given annually. Giving them too often does nothing but put pets at risk," says Dodds.

Risks from Dog Vaccinations Include:

* Injection-site tumors (primarily cats)

* Fever, stiffness and sore joints

* Vomiting

* Susceptibility to infections

* Ear and skin conditions

* Allergic reactions

* Behavioral changes

* Anemia

* Arthritis

* Seizures and other neurological events

* Autoimmune diseases and

* Liver failure

Side effects from dog vaccinations can occur anywhere from instantly up to several weeks or months later. Vaccines can even cause susceptibility to chronic diseases later in a dog's life.

One Pet-Parent's Vaccination Story

Lisa LaVallee of Connecticut knows all too well the potential adverse side effects of dog vaccinations. Her nightmare began after her Standard Schnauzer, Jonas received his one-year boosters in October 2007.

Three weeks later, Jonas suffered a seizure. A few weeks after that, he had another seizure. It took the vet two days to control the seizures with large doses of Phenobarbital.

Continuing on the Phenobarbital, Jonas remained stable for several months. That changed when LaVallee brought him for additional vaccines in March 2008. Shortly afterwards, Jonas became listless and lethargic.

Jonas was diagnosed with Immune-Mediated Hemolytic Anemia (IMHA). Whereas a normal dog's PCV count (which measures red blood cells) is 40 - 59 percent, Jonas's was eight. He was so anemic he needed a blood transfusion.

The vet told LaVallee that, in his opinion, Jonas's condition resulted from the vaccines. Jonas was put on a cocktail of powerful medications - which often made him sick - to raise his red blood cell count and control his seizures.

Fortunately, what happened to Jonas is rare, with a reported 30 adverse events per 10,000 dogs vaccinated. And, although we can't completely eliminate our dogs' risks of vaccine-related side effects, we can take precautions:

Don't begin puppy vaccinations before eight - 10 weeks.

Until a puppy is 14 - 16 weeks old, he carries antibodies passed to him through his mother's milk. This natural immunity interferes with any vaccines given.

For this reason, Schultz advises beginning vaccination when puppies are between eight-to-10 weeks old, and waiting three weeks between rounds, "so that the puppy receives his last series of shots between 14 and 16 weeks." Shots should be given at 8, 11 and 14 weeks; 9, 12 and 15 weeks; or 10, 13 and 16 weeks.

Every puppy, Schultz stresses, must be vaccinated with the core vaccines: canine distemper, canine parvovirus, canine adenovirus type 2 and also with a rabies vaccine given as recommended by your state or province.

Perform titer tests.

A titer test is a simple blood test to check the strength of a dog's immune defenses to a disease. "Except where vaccination is required by law," says Dodds, "all animals can have serum antibody titers measured annually instead of boosters. By titering, we can avoid over-vaccination in dogs with adequate immunity."

Vaccinate no more than every three years.

Schultz recommends that once a dog receives his puppy series and one-year booster, he should not be vaccinated more often than every three years. "If an owner decides that they don't want to vaccinate ever again, that's okay," he says. "But do not vaccinate more often than every three years." The exception to this is the rabies vaccine, which is given as required by law.

Avoid vaccine "cocktails".

According to a 2005 study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Association, giving multiple vaccines per visit increases the risk of adverse side effects.

Use caution when vaccinating sick or aging pets.

Vaccines may overwhelm the immune system of a sick or older dog, becoming the final insult that triggers a negative reaction. Dodds notes that vaccines are likely to be unnecessary in aging pets, and could prove harmful for those with age-related disorders.

Check your breed.

Certain breeds, such as Great Danes, Akitas, Weimaraners, white Standard Poodles and most white-coated small breeds are more vulnerable to adverse effects from dog vaccinations. If your dog falls into this high-risk category, discuss options with your veterinarian.

According to Dr. Charles Loops, a homeopathic veterinarian located in Pittsboro, North Carolina, in the past few years, veterinary schools have recommended backing off on yearly boosters. "Schools and professional associations have a more progressive and realistic view than most practitioners," he says.

"There's no question about the importance of vaccines," says Schultz. "But we adopted the attitude that even if the vaccines don't help, they're not hurting. Over time we discovered that they can hurt."

"It's an educational problem," adds Dodds. "The public must ask the right questions. No longer should vaccines be considered a 'one-size-fits-all' program."

Lisa LaVallee knows this all too well. Thankfully, with a combination of traditional and homeopathic remedies, Jonas is in remission from the IMHA, and his seizures are under control. However, he can never again be immunized. Says LaVallee, "I will be sure to ask plenty of questions about dog vaccinations before revaccinating any of my dogs again."

By Diana R. Laverdure

Pet Supplies

2009-08-17T01:26:00.000-07:00

Showing love for your pet does not mean going overboard with pet supplies. Buying too much will not only drain your wallet, but also clutter your home with pet supplies you pet will never use. Buy wisely - get only the pet supplies your pet truly needs. Here are ideas.

Food and water bowls. Your pet will be using this for years, so do not scrimp. Plastic may be cheap, but remember that it can get quite difficult to clean as it ages and tends to be discolored. Go for stainless steel if you can. They last longer and are easier to scrub spotless. They are also safer, as they don't react to pet food chemicals. If you have extra money, you can have your pet's name engraved on the bowls to make them more personalized.

Grooming supplies. If you have a dog, buy a coat brush, nail clippers and good shampoo. Used properly and regularly, these can help you keep your beloved canine clean and huggable.

Traveling supplies. If you often travel with your pet, you need special supplies such as harnesses and well-ventilated, hard-sided kennels, for example. You also need a bag for bringing your pet's grooming supplies and meds with you wherever you go. If you are traveling by car, it's a good idea to get an adjustable pet car seat that can grow with your pet.

A few toys. Expensive pet toys are not necessarily the best pet toys. Your dog or cat can enjoy even the simplest playthings, such as old socks. But if you have extra money, treat your pet to a fancy toy or two. It will keep him or her busy so that you can attend to other important things. Active toys also let your pets exercise while having fun. But before you buy pet toys, read the label first - be sure to choose only toys that pass safety tests.

By Ken Marlborough

Dog Mating

2009-08-17T01:14:00.000-07:00

Dog mating is a tricky subject! The decision to breed dogs is something that must be well-planned and thoroughly thought of. There's a lot that goes into it, and the responsibility that goes with dog mating must be considered by a new breeder. There are expenses from such an endeavor, and the care and safety of the new pups and their mother must be of utmost priority.

Ethics of dog mating

There are various reasons why dog owners decide to become dog mating owners. Most dog breeders, however, are sincere dog lovers who are interested in having more pups from their well-loved dogs. However, there are those who decide to breed dogs because of financial reasons, mainly profit. While it really isn't bad to breed dogs with this in mind, the dog breeder must put the welfare of the dogs above any financial gain for the dog mating process. The dogs must not in any way be solely used for profit and enslaved to breeding duties without the corresponding proper love and attention that they need.

So, if you are not a dog lover and you are solely thinking of breeding dogs solely for profit, then you might want to reconsider and research for other methods of earning money. Moreover, dog welfare is protected in the first world countries, and if you are residing in one (even if you are not) be sure that the dogs are not neglected.

While there are ethical issues that are related to breeding and dog mating, there are also procedures that must be discussed to the new breeder.

The art of dog mating

Before you start mating dogs, it is advisable to pay your vet a visit. Have him examine your female dog (bitch) and get certification that she is good to mate. While you are the veterinarian, you might as well ask him for sound advice on how to start breeding your dog. He/she is in the best position to give you sound advice regarding this matter.

Second, get hold of a reliable breeder and make arrangements for a compatible dog for your bitch. Ask for certificates that will authenticate the claim(s) of the male dog's breed as well as proof of the dog's good health. Moreover, the mating process is best done in the place where the male dog resides rather than the reverse.

Third, your dog should mate only when she is biologically primed for mating - dog mating should always be performed at the most opportune moment. In addition, you should hold mating sessions for your dog during the 9th, 11th, and 13th days for it to be most productive. It is also recommended that the mating process between the bitch and the stud last for a good ten minutes. If the bitch refuses, aid in the mating process by trying to calm her down.

Finally, to check if the mating was successful you may visit the animal doctor a good three weeks after the mating of the dogs.

Breeding dogs is not as easy as it seems to be, especially if you are a beginner. If you are planning on doing cross-breeding then it is advised that you talk to the animal doctor and confirm if it is good to go into such given the breeds you want to mate.

By Dr. Mark Clayson

Pug Puppies For Sale

2009-08-13T01:02:00.000-07:00

Pugs are common house pets all around the world. A flat, round face filled with wrinkles, characterizes this small and sturdy dog. The Pug has a short but stocky body, and a tail that is tightly curled over its hip. Since these animals have a very sociable nature and are friendly with kids, they tend to make excellent house pets.

The origin of the Pug can be traced back to China in around 700 BC. These dogs were primarily bred as household companions and not guardians. Soon, they spread to Europe and America, where they became extremely popular house pets. Even today, this breed is a favorite among dog lovers, especially those who want an average sized toy dog.

Pug puppies, like most other breeds, are very cute and adorable. Born in a litter of 2 to 5 pups, they are a little bigger than a large mouse. As Pugs are a popular breed, Pug breeding is a very lucrative business. Several people and kennel clubs offer Pug puppies for sale. Normally, puppies are put on sale about 2 months after birth, as these first months are crucial for the early development of the pup and they must stay with their mothers. Once the pup is beyond 5 to 6 months of age, it becomes hard for it to adapt to a new environment. The period between the age of 2 and 4 months is the perfect time to give a Pug pup a new home. Pug puppies need a lot of attention. Constant exercise, brushing, and bathing are a few activities that need to be undertaken on a regular basis.

Pug puppies for sale may be champion breeds or normal pet breeds. Those coming from a champion, pedigree bloodline, usually fetch a higher price. Pug puppies might start from about $450 and go up to over $1000, depending on the stock they are bred from.

While buying a Pug pup, it is essential to confirm from the kennel that the necessary vaccines have been given and that de-worming has been done. Those going in for a Pug must make sure they give the pup all the love and attention it needs for a happy life ahead.

By Steve Valentino

Nutritious Cat Food

2009-07-14T22:28:00.000-07:00

When you walk down the isles of the cat food section in any supermarket, you could be forgiven for thinking that all the big brand names were offering you the most nutritious cat food for a healthy cat.

Can you believe the advertising, the pretty pictures and sage words by 'veterinarians'?

Not on your life!

Turn the packet or tin over and you'll see what constitutes 'quality' ingredients - meat by-products.

Meat by-products are the net result of a rendering plant. Rendering plants take the waste from slaughter houses - typically heads, hooves, intestines (including the contents...). Many also get their 'raw material' from veterinary clinics (euthanized dogs and cats), road kills, euthanize or dead zoo animals, horses and the like.

This not only means the quality of meat is very low, but that you are turning your cat into a cannibal.

The chemical that is used to euthanize animals cannot be broken down in the cooking process, which means your cat is living on a diet of a fatal chemical.

Most of the top brands of cat food then bulk out this 'meat' with a filler. This makes the end product much more profitable for them, but much less nutritious for your cat, if you thought it was in the first place.

Fillers tend to be whatever is currently cheap in the world market. Sugar can be used. So can melamine. I'm sure you've heard of all the deaths of cats from cat food manufacturers importing melamine from China.

Don't imagine that it has gone away. It's just been buried a bit deeper.

Because the manufacturers want to keep this 'nutritious cat food' on the shelf indefinitely (good for marketing), preservatives are then added. Two of the worst ones are ethoxyquin (which can give factory workers symptoms similar to agent orange poisoning) and formaldehyde (which is great for preserving or embalming dead bodies).

Animal fat is a bit of a problem, as humans tend not to eat much of it. So a lot goes into pet food. Look at what your butchers sells as pet food. One butcher told me that it's a common practice to add beetroot juice to fat and sell it as pet food. If that's done openly, imagine what goes on behind closed doors.

Don't risk the health of your cat by believing those with a vested interest that their product is nutritious cat food.

There are undoubtedly some ethical and conscientious manufacturers of cat food, who really do make real, nutritious cat food, which is healthy. But these are often small and threaten the bigger companies who then buy them up, but retain the label.

For my money, the best way to ensure your cat is consistently getting a nutritious cat food is to do it yourself. Buy the raw ingredients and make up the meals yourself.

It really isn't difficult. It just takes a bit of time while you get your head around the notion. Then it's just a question of repeating the same thing every week.

It's not even time consuming. Once you have learned to do it once, you just keep repeating the same thing, while differing one or two ingredients to give your cat a variety.

The most nutritious cat food which will ensure your cat has the healthiest and longest life possible, is when you care enough to purchase each ingredient for its nutrient content and freshness.

After all, putting a packet of meat in your trolley is no more difficult than putting in a packet of commercial cat food.

By Madeleine Innocent

Puppies For Sale

2009-07-14T22:22:00.000-07:00

One early morning, you find yourself surfing at the internet with the phrase -- boxer puppies for sale -- in mind. You just got to own for yourself some cute puppies. Well, okay even just one boxer puppy, one that you can own and take care and really be a great companion.
Caring for puppies needs ample attention, effort and patience

So, okay now you found a great pet site, and one link does say "boxer puppies for sale." Will you go ahead and buy online for your pet boxer? Or will you first take some time to see if you are really ready to care for a small puppy? Before you check on those boxer puppies for sale, just remember that it can take from you so much time and energy just caring for them, even for just one small dog.

Avoid getting newborn puppies

It's ideal if you boxer puppy is aged at least 8 to 10 weeks old; this is the time when they can leave the place of their birth and be transferred to a new home and owner. By this time, these cute puppies are much older and can take in solid food. Most pet websites have older boxer puppies for sale; just as well be specific about the age when you are finally going to buy one.

Be ready for his own place

Of course, before your new boxer puppy reaches you place, it is best that you already have the basic puppy supplies for ready care. Set aside a nice place for your puppy, one that should be used as his own space. Such space is where he can do all that he needs to do like play, have his food and sleep as well.

Remember to prepare a nice bed

A nice comfortable puppy bed is ideal for you -- especially if he is new to the place. If you can't buy a specially made doggie bed from the pet store, then a modified box layered with some soft clothing will be comfortable as well.

Be a loving pet owner

Your boxer puppy is new to your home and so he might tend to be become unreceptive to your approaches. Be patient and just spend lots of time playing with your boxer puppy. I no time at all, he will appreciate all the attention that you are giving him. If there are small children in the house, let them interact with your puppy, preferably with you observing them. Soon enough, the puppy will get used to the presence of people in the house and will be delighted being around everyone.

By Ernesto Maitim

K9 Dog Training

2009-06-22T19:32:00.000-07:00

In reaching this article you may have been searching on words such as "k9 dog training", "training a dog on a leash" or even "k9 corps". The information below will interest all dog lovers.

A dog's highly playful inclination can cause it to harm your children should you have them. Puppies tend to scratch,nibble and kick when they are excessively mischievous. You should be competent to train your puppy so that it does not exhibit innocently damaging behaviors such as nibbling all the time.

Don't make the error of purchasing deluxe toys for your dog to gnaw on because it wont be able to differentiate between a deluxe toy and a deluxe slipper. In choosing chew toys for your dog, purchase a few that are identical in size and color in order to assist your dog keep track of them. Purchasing your dog a array of chew toys can confuse it and defeat the aim of distracting it from gnawing your valuables.

Make sure that you get all the occupants of your household involved in the k9 dog training session so that they too will be able to practice some form of posture and control over your dog also. If you are the only person your dog listens to, when you are absent, other people at home will be unable to exert some form of control over it and that can cause problems.

Herding dogs are born with the instinct to herd. Herding dogs are normally utilised in farms and the countryside to herd cattle or sheep. Basically most possessors of herding dogs use sounding command tools to train their dogs because of the nature of the herding caper.

A Good Deal of outrage has been declared over the manufacture of the electronic neckband because it perceived by some as an inappropriate instrument for training dogs. The electronic collar is called remote dog training by its manufacturers and is utilized to train a dog from a sizable outdistance. The currents that an electronic collar releases are not lethal to the dog.

If your dogs furniture jawing inclinations are driving you up the wall, buy it a chew toy. Some individuals admonish their dogs chewing by giving it a bitter tasting or smelly object to crunch on. You can spray bitter apple on your furniture to warn your dog from chomping down on it.

A dog is commonly trained in line with its spontaneous characteristics. A naturally territorial reserve dog is trained to be a guard dog because of its intrinsic traits of territory security. A naturally protective and tender dog is trained to be a herd dog in accord with its traits.

If your k9 training commands don't seem to be having any effect on the behavior of your dog, don't be quick to damn yourself. A dog may fail to respond to a string of commands because of material or psychological troubles. Take your dog to visit a dog behavioral analyst if your dog is behaving out of order.

By Analyn Gerellana Gravoso

Veterinary Hospital

2009-06-21T21:58:00.000-07:00

If you've a cat and they ever fall unwell, you want to take them to a cat veterinary hospital. A Chicago pet hospital is essentially like the surgery that we as humans go to, only designed for cats. Naturally you're going to want to make sure of a few things before you are taking your cat to just any old cat veterinary hospital, to ensure that they are going to be getting the care and hospital therapy that they require.

Services They Offer

One of the first aspects that you are going to consider when trying to select a veterinary clinic is what sort of services they offer. Some veterinary hospitals offer both typical and alternative techniques of treatment for your pet. If alternative therapies appeal to you, you will want to take this into consideration and make sure that you find a pussy veterinary clinic that practices both kinds of medicine. A Google search can be a good begin to find your new veterinarian.

The more services a veterinary clinic offers the better. Are you looking for a clinic that offers amenities like boarding and grooming or maybe alternative therapies including chiropractic and acupuncture. Some hospitals today are adding the most recent in diagnostic medicine including digital x-ray, dental x-ray, ultrasound and even MRI. A method to evaluate all the various services available is to create a catalog of all the different veterinary hospitals that you are considering and the services that they offer. This will take a bit of time but will be well worthwhile and will give you the best chance at finding the best veterinary clinic for your pet.

Staff

Another crucial thing that you will need to do is take some time to take a look at the staff. You need to guarantee that they are qualified if they are working at the feline veterinary hospital, and this suggests checking to see what sort of background they have, where they went to school and what degrees they received, for instance. Good quality staff can make the difference between a good clinic and a great one.

Prices

You will also wish to see what sorts of prices they are asking for their services, due to course you are going to require to discover a pussy veterinary clinic that you are able to afford. Naturally this is the last thing that you want to have to worry about when it comes to the condition of your loved pet, but it is something you are going to need to be involved with nonetheless.

At least you can be assured in the knowledge that there are masses of great options available to you when it comes to veterinary hospitals, and so you will never have to settle for second best. You will feel far better knowing that your animal will be in good hands god forbid there ever be something wrong and they require medical attention.

And Eventually

Take a tour of any facilities you are considering. Just walking into a veterinary practice and looking around can answer lots of your questions awfully swiftly. You will immediately be ready to judge the cleanliness of the practice as well as staff interactions and the first services offered. It will also give you the opportunity to talk with clients waiting in the waiting room.

By Susan Y Avery

Pet Vaccinations

2009-06-19T00:36:00.000-07:00

We all love our dogs and cats, birds and ferrets; we want them healthy and active. A good diet and exercise are important for the well being and health of our faithful companions. Vaccinations are as important part for them as they are for us. When you buy a new dog or cat, take in a stray, or acquire a new family member through other means, it's important to keep up with their health care.. Rabies, canine distemper, canine parvovirus, canine hepatitis virus, rabies, and adenovirus -2 are the core vaccines for dogs.

You can choose non-core vaccinations as well. These will be suggested by the veterinarian and should only be taken if required by law, or recommendation of the veterinarian. These non-core vaccines may cause a reaction to your pet.

Vaccine requirements vary from state, city and country. The local pet store and veterinarian will have the requirements. Be sure to document the types of vaccines you have administered to your pets. You will need this if you ever decide to re-sell your dog or cat.

You get your pets vaccinated at your local vet. All you do is schedule an appointment and a helpful doctor will administer the required shots. He will also inform you of the types of vaccines that are required for the area you live in.

You need to discuss the options with the veterinarian on the number of injections needed. There is growing concern of over inoculations and causing super-viruses to infect our pets - and possibly even spread to humans.

The injections are painless and quick. The vet will even probably give you pet a treat for the effort! Talk to your veterinarian about vaccinations. When finished, be sure to observe your pet over the course of a week to see if there are any adverse reactions. If you see any changes of behavior, contact your veterinarian immediately!

By Melanie Ullman

Pets For Sale

2009-06-18T23:05:00.000-07:00

There is often a lot of money to be made by breeders offering pets for sale. More and more people are purchasing new pets, be it dogs, cats, rabbits or any other animal and as such there is an increasing demand.

Breeders will breed specific animals often pure bred, appearing on a register, and can thus charge a lot of money for their pets. There are though ethical and non-ethical pet breeders offering pets for sale. Ethical pet breeders are normally enthusiasts and pet lovers, unethical ones are just in the business for financial gain. You are likely to find that any pet brought from an unethical breeder will have more problems health wise than other pets.

It is not just breeders who are offering pets for sale and many private individuals and pet stores will also sell pets. Private individuals will normally have two different sorts of pets available. The first sort will be the unwanted pet. This often occurs where a pet has been brought and then found it is too much to take care of. There could also be a change of circumstances that sees it no longer possible to keep a pet, a common problem when moving home or country. The second sort of pets for sale comes when the private individual finds that their pet is to have offspring. When a female cat or dog has offspring there could be more youngsters than an owner knows what to do with.

Pet stores will also offer pets for sale. It is a logical step as they already sell everything else connected with pet care, so why not pets themselves. Pet stores though are often criticized, as the pets are often bred in what are known as mills, which is not how most pet owners would like to think of the origins of their pets. These mills, as used by pet stores and breeders are often blamed for the overproduction of pets, which sees many hundred each month being put into animal shelters, many of whom cannot be re-housed.

You will often find pets for sale in local newspapers, although there has been a growth in the advertisement of animals on the internet as well. Both are great sources to find pets local to a potential owner, although the internet does have the advantage of making it a lot easier to search for a wide range of animals.

By Clifford Young

Exotic Pets

2009-06-17T00:41:00.000-07:00

Exotic pets can make a statement about who we are and give our visitors something to talk about for years to come. Exotic pets can range from cute and cuddly to outright dangerous and this is probably what makes them so appealing. These type of exotic animals might be a rare breed, endangered animals, or even from a far off land. There are many different animals that are considered exotic such as; lizards, snakes, sugar gliders, fish, rare breeds of dogs and cats and many more. However, not all of them are suitable for a family

Exotic breeds of fish - These make great pets for younger children or for families that don't have a whole lot of time to devote to their pet because they are easy to care for. They can be placed in a prominent part of the home as they are fun to watch and make a great talking point.
Sugar Gliders - These friendly little creatures make great family pets for those that like to spend lots of time with their pet. They are relatively easy to care for and make great companions (they are known for riding along in your pockets)
Lizards - Once again these make great family pets because they can be contained within a "tank" and are easy to care for. They are also very interesting to watch go about their business.
Cats - These are better pets for families with time to care for them. There are many exotic breeds of cats to choose from.
Dogs - Again these are for families who can handle the responsibilities of looking after a dog. There are some very exotic breeds of dogs, but be prepared to pay extra for them!

Hopefully you do not have too much difficulty choosing an exotic pet for your family. A good way to see if the family is up to the task is to babysit a pet from someone else.

By Mark K Edwards

Pet Grooming

2009-06-15T22:08:00.000-07:00

Grooming your pet is an important part of being a responsible pet owner. That said, there is more to grooming your pet than simply running a brush over it's coat. Before grooming your pet you should know what needs to be done and what risks and benefits you may face. Knowing the ins and outs of grooming your pet will help you decide whether it's something that you can do on your own or if you should enlist professional help.

Grooming Your Dog

Dogs need regular grooming. Granted, some breeds need more grooming than others, but they all have certain needs. For instance, part of grooming your dog entails trimming it's nails. This is true no matter what breed of dog you have. Basic dog grooming would involve you bathing and brushing your dog, along with trimming your dog's nails. You should also keep their teeth cleaned and their eyes and ears clear of debris.

To effectively groom your dog you will need some dog grooming equipment. The type of dog grooming equipment you need will depend on the amount of grooming your dog needs. The most basic dog grooming equipment that you will need includes nail clippers, shampoo, brush, toothbrush and toothpaste. For more advanced dog grooming, you will also need scissors, hair clippers designed to cut dog hair, and hair dryers which can be found in almost any pet store that sells pet grooming supplies.

Grooming Your Cat

For the most part, cats groom themselves. This makes them one of the easier pets to own. However, certain cat breeds do require regular grooming such as Persians and Himalayans or other cat breeds with long hair. Also, from time to time it may be necessary to groom even your standard domestic breed. The coat, eyes, ears and teeth should be the primary focus when grooming your cat.

More often than not some pet owners prefer not to bathe their cat. However, you should brush them regularly to remove loose hair from their undercoat. If your cat has long hair you may need to remove mats that form. This should be done gently and carefully, preferably without cutting. In general you may need some cat grooming equipment including a brush, toothbrush and toothpaste.

Benefits of Pet Grooming

There are many benefits of pet grooming, but some are more apparent than others. One obvious benefit is that your pet will look good. Regular brushing will also prevent your pet from shedding fur all over your home, and when it comes to cats, it could help minimize hair balls.

Additionally, there are other benefits to grooming your pet. For one, trimming your dog's nails prevents and relieves pressure and pain in the paw. Keeping your cat brushed can prevent mats that are painful. Bathing your pet can help reduce infestation of pests that can be bothersome and possibly dangerous to your pet's health. Furthermore, brushing your pet's teeth can reduce tooth loss and health complications later in life.

Risks of Grooming Your Pet

There are also a number of risks associated with grooming your pet that need to be mentioned. The risks of grooming your pet can range from mild to serious. For instance, if you are not properly trained when trimming a dog's nails you may cut them too short. This can cause bleeding, infection and a host of other complications. Other risks of grooming your pet would include cutting your pet's skin while trimming fur. You could also get soap or water in your pet's nose ears or eyes. Scalding could also occur if the water is hotter than your pet's sensitive skin.

By Cyril Osakwe

Training K 9 - Dog Diet

2009-06-07T20:31:00.000-07:00

If you want your dog to have the best training, you should look up to the best: training K9. K9 training is usually done in law enforcement where they teach dogs how to attack intruders, detect explosive devices and narcotics, protect people and help locate people.

Well trained dogs can be used in many situations including protecting yourself from attackers and stalkers. Because crime can happen anywhere, at any time, to anybody, you can train your dog like they are trained in K9 courses. They are trained at least 5X a week in obedience, agility and protection. Every day should begin with a physical training workout for both you and your dog. Try running at least 80 kilometers a week.

Training your dog means more then just taking him/her to a trainer. There's no secret, just will and patience teaching your dog to listen to your commands. Dogs are just too smart to behave like that from a few day course. They ask questions, get responses (whether or not we know we are giving them) and determine their relationship to us as a result.

Usual k 9 course consist of obedience training, agility and protection techniques. In addition, you can visit local k 9 law enforcement station and ask for more information on training k 9. Here's a list of courses you can expect to hear:

* Narcotic Detection

* Mountain/Desert/High Altitude Warfare/Survival

* Cadaver Recovery

* FAST Roping & Rappelling

* Land Navigation

* Terrorist methods and Ideology

* Anti-Suicide Bomber

* Tactical SWAT K-9

* Counter-Surveillance & Photography

* Counter-terrorist K-9

* Explosive Detection

* Advanced Protection & Decoy Training

* Advanced Tactical Man-tracking

* Counter-sniper, Shooting, Suppressed Weapons

* Foreign Operations

* Resistance to Interrogation, Escape & Evasion

* Counter-terrorist Knife Fighting

This is by no means complete list, just to give you some insight. You can also expect paying $1000 or more for each of these courses. In these courses you should get enough knowledge to carry it on yourself. Give your dog the best training and you should only expect the best.

One of the most important thing in training k 9 is the dogs diet. Healthy diet with enough protein and nutrition is crucial for success in your dog training.

By Damir Horvat

Healthiest Dog Food

2009-06-04T01:24:00.000-07:00

More and more people are making the healthiest dog food at home because of the pet food recalls that occurred a few years ago. Many dog owners have lost confidence in the dog food companies. If you really want to make the healthiest dog food, it's best to make it yourself using recipes, and you are about to learn the vital steps to this process.

Step 1. Research Dog Nutrition

Dogs will eat just about anything you give them, but there are many foods that are unhealthy and even toxic to dogs. So start with educating yourself on what foods are safe and healthy for them. You really want to become an expert at this so you can be sure your dog is getting the proper nutrition from the meals you will be making.

Step 2. Look For Recipes

There are many recipes for dog food on the internet, in books, and in magazines. Be very careful, though. Not all the recipes that are published are actually healthy for your dog. That's why step 1 above is so important. Armed with the proper facts, you will be able to pick and choose the right ones.

Step 3. Shop For The Foods And Ingredients That You Need

Now hit your usual grocery store! That's right. The place where you buy food to make your own meals is the same place you will shop for the foods and ingredients that your chosen recipes are calling for. And this is really the most important step because you get to pick what is going in your dog's food.

Step 4. Get To Fixing!

In to the kitchen we go! Following these recipes is no different than making meals with any recipe you have ever used. Just follow the simple instructions and soon you will have made the healthiest dog food. Don't worry if it takes a little more time than you anticipated. After you get the hang of it, you will be able to make these dishes as quickly as you make your own meals.

Step 5. Doggy Taste Test

It's important to gradually introduce changes in your dog's diet, so this first time, just mix a little of the homemade food in your dog's regular dog food - about 25%. Then let him have a sniff. He may dig right in or he may just give you a funny look, but more than likely he will try it and like it. Hopefully he will gobble it all up!

Step 6. Monitor Your Dog

This is your first time feeding him homemade food, so keep a close eye on your dog for the next day or so to see if you notice any signs of intolerance like diarrhea, vomiting, tiredness, or anything out of the ordinary. If there are any problems, decrease the amount of homemade food until he gets used to it. You may even consider trying different recipes until you find some he can handle.

Step 7. Gradually Decrease The Store Brand Food

Little by little increase the amount of the homemade food and decrease the commercial brand until your dog's meals are 100% from your recipes. And of course, keep step 6, monitoring, in mind during this time and adjust the recipe, if needed, until you reach 100%. This really is the goal, so congratulate yourself when you reach it!

Step 8. Keep Informed About New Recipes And Trends In Dog Nutrition

Now you are an expert, and to maintain that status, continue your research by looking for new information and trends about dog nutrition. Look for new recipes and find out what other dog owners are doing or suggesting. You will have a lot of information to share and you will learn even more. Before long you will be the dog nutrition go-to person!

You have just learned all about making the healthiest dog food with your own two hands and your good, loving heart. As you can see, it all comes down to giving yourself a good education in dog nutrition. Remember to always use the right healthy ingredients and watch the effects of your dog's new diet. In no time you will have the happiest and healthiest dog in the neighborhood!

By Matthew Bandas

Pet Accessories For Pet Travel

2009-06-04T01:18:00.000-07:00

There are a number of reasons why people purchase SUV accessories. For many, these accessories are purchased for cosmetics reasons. That is, they are purchased to improve the look of the SUV. Of course, there is nothing wrong with this at all. After all, who would not want their SUV to look good? Then, there are those who purchase accessories for functional purposes such as a hitch mount cargo carrier. Now, if you were to ask the average person what else is included under the category of function, there is one category most people do not think of. That category is "pet safety" accessories.

While some may scoff at the notion of maintaining a dog's safety while driving, this is not a category that is unserious. If a driver is transporting a pet, the driver has the responsibility to maintain the safety of the pet. This is not only a matter of being a responsible pet owner. It is a matter of being a safe driver. If a pet is not properly contained then it can represent a hazard to the owner and other drivers on the road. SUV accessories for pets are far from vanity items. They are critical to maintaining driving safety.

Specifically, there are a number of pet guards, nets, and barriers that can be installed in the cargo area of a SUV. These guards generally restrict a dog's movements to the cargo area and keep it from distracting the driver. This greatly helps to avoid any mishaps while allowing the dog the ability to move about freely in the rear area. The latter aspect of these SUV accessories is one of the best aspects to these guards. They do not restrict the dog in any inhumane manner. No, there is no reason to strap a dog down and make it restrictively uncomfortable. These pet guards maintain both the safety and comfort of the animal. That is a tough combo to top!

Pet guards are not the only SUV accessories that can be employed to avoid any problems transporting you dog. There is also the "pet hammock" which can be affixed to the rear seating of the SUV. As its name would imply, a pet hammock is the same thing as a "human" hammock. Dogs safely rest in the hammock while the SUV is moving. Of course, the pet hammock also comes with safety features that restrict the dog's movement to maintain safety. So, yes, a pet hammock eliminates any dangers or distractions the dog might cause. If, however, you wish to play it safer there is also the option of using a pet stowaway accessory. This is a variant on the classic pet carriage but it is designed in a much, more comfortable manner. Yet, despite the elevated comfort of the pet stowaway, safety is never compromised.

By Ken Geers

Pets Enhance Human Lives

2009-05-21T19:56:00.000-07:00

There are extremely powerful benefits living with pets. That explains why the number of pet owners keeps increasing until now they have reached 69.1 million people in the United States, ranging from childhood through the elderly. One benefit to man I see is that the dog in my home is a dependable, loyal companion. The dog loves man without judgment. This aspect is unconditional love in human life. Pets love man unconditionally. They fill a void when children do not exist in the home with their personalities. A feeling of safety is provided by a dog's presence. Hearing and sight are keener for pets than in man, so their presence of a stranger can trigger barking as a warning. Dog owners from childhood to the disabled, blind, or elderly benefit .

Families grow better children when they have a pet. Taking care of feeding and cleaning up after their pet teaches them responsibility animal behavior and about death. Children must learn gentleness, kindness, and patience. Children develop higher self-esteem and improved social skills. Pets teach how to respect other living things. Pets in the family encourage more physical activity in children, thus boosting their immune systems. Higher immune systems cause better school attendance. Pets help the children to develop better non-verbal communication skills. Pets are safe, reliable confidants to children. These factors cause children to grow up as better human beings.

Pets help you have better health in the following ways. Pets reduce stress and control high blood pressure. Pets motivate owners to owners to be more active and spend more time outside. Pet owners visit the doctor less, since they have a stronger heart muscle, improving circulation. Pet owners have a greater well-being and feel less depression. Pets allow the disabled, blind person to live independently. Pets allow the elderly to be more independent and the handicapped to overcome.

By Bonnie Betz

Dog Training

2009-05-21T19:54:00.000-07:00

The beauty of dog training Idea is that you have the opportunity to bring up your puppy the way it best pleases you. When you have a pet training idea you can teach your pet when he or she is still a pup. Normally, the best time to train a dog is when the dog is still a pup.

There are several advantages of learning how to train your dog by your self. These advantages include, pet protection, pride, better relationship between owners and pets, ability to control and change unwanted characters in pets.

First and foremost let's talk about how pet training ideas help us protect our pets. When you train your dog your self, you can teach him or her with language different from default languages used by pet trainers which exposed pet to other people to control them against their owner's wish. With default languages, thieves can easily find their way to your pet by command control.

Secondly, we have to talk about how dog training makes us proud as pet owners. With pet training idea, you will be able to teach and control your pet's behavior which will help you to control your pet against your visitors or friends.

The best way to get dog training idea is to find a pet training DVD that can coach you on dog training techniques. The easiest way to fine the best dog trainer with the best pet training techniques is by searching through the internet.

By Tessy Michael

Homemade Pet Food

2009-05-21T19:52:00.000-07:00

There are a variety of pet foods available in stores. You can choose from any of them to meet the daily diet requirements of your cat or dog. However, some of these commercial pet foods may contain ingredients that can be harmful to your pet's health. This possibility was even confirmed when a number of known brands have been recalled and taken out of the pet stores' shelves.

You must be one of those many cat and dog owners who have become wary of giving their feline or canine friends commercial foods. Perhaps you want to try giving them homemade pet food instead of buying commercial foods that are available in stores. If so, then you are on the right track. Since you are going to make them yourself, you can be sure that the ingredients for your pet's food are non-contaminated and therefore safe. You need not worry of food poisoning and other health problems that can result from their diet. However, there are also ingredients that, although natural, can cause health problems to your pet especially when taken in large amounts. That is why you should be careful in choosing the right homemade recipes.

Homemade pet foods can be done using the natural ingredients that can be found in your own kitchen. You can secure homemade pet food recipes from the Internet or from friends who have also been giving their beloved animals homemade foods.

Making your own homemade pet food is relatively easy. All you need to do is know which ingredients are good for your pet and which should not be included in its diet. You may ask the advice of a veterinarian if you are not sure which ingredients are good or bad for your cat or dog.

Most pet foods that are cooked and made at home can include ingredients such as rice, pasta, meat, yeast, oatmeal, potatoes, and vegetables. Often, brown rice is preferred because they contain more nutrients compared to the ordinary variety of rice. Pasta and potatoes, on the other hand, are good sources of starch that are essential in your pet's diet. It is also advisable to put a little amount of garlic in the homemade recipe. Garlic has properties that can help repel fleas.

It is beneficial if you can alternate the menu for the animal's meals everyday. Doing so can help take out the monotony routines of meals. In addition, it is advisable not to keep homemade recipes for more than three days in the refrigerator. If in case you have made more than what the dog or the cat can take for the day, you can give it again the next day or mix it with the new recipe for the day.

While homemade food may be a good alternative to commercial pet food, veterinarians strongly advise not to change the commercial food abruptly into homemade food. The sudden change of feeding may have a negative effect on the pet. Vets advise to mix commercial food with homemade food on the first few days of giving the pet homemade menus. Because of this, you might want to check with your veterinarian first before ultimately changing your pet's diet.

By Melissa Simmonds

Pet Grooming

2009-05-21T19:50:00.000-07:00

Let's face it. Taking your pet to the vet can be a frustrating, sometimes traumatic, experience... for both of you. But did you know that you can avoid this stressful experience just by grooming your pet on a regular basis?

Believe it or not, keeping your pet's coat trimmed, brushed or combed can help to avoid disaster. I'd like to illustrate this point by telling you a true story.

I know a veterinarian who was trying to figure out why a small dog brought into his office couldn't take the smallest step without letting out a blood-curdling scream. The dog would just stand in one place, shaking, holding his mouth open in a peculiar, frozen grimace.

The dogs owners were inconsolable, as they were convinced the dog had contracted some rare, horrible, possibly-incurable disease.

After careful examination of the dogs paws, the vet ruled out any nails, thorns or other sharp objects that may have been embedded in the pads. There were also no broken bones or signs of external or internal injuries. This was one of the weirdest cases the vet had ever seen.

Upon closer examination the veterinarian discovered a thick, long hair coming out of the dog's lower chest area, traveling up and into the dog's mouth where it had become wrapped, tightly, around one of the dog's lower front teeth.

Now the vet clearly understood why it was so excruciating for the dog to take a step and why his mouth was frozen open.

Using dog grooming scissors, the vet simply cut the offending hair, releasing the dog from his agony.

This strange event could have been avoided simply by keeping the dog's coat trimmed. Trimming, brushing, and, yes, even bathing, can do wonders for the health and well being of your pet. It also gives you an opportunity to interact with your dog or cat in a special, loving way.

Make no mistake. If you want to avoid traumatic trips to the vet, do yourself and your pet a favor: make regular pet grooming part of your normal routine.

By Bobbi Hightower

Pet Food Coupons

2009-05-21T19:46:00.001-07:00

Life is hard with a furry family of four legged friends to care for and feed. So how do you keep filling those dependent little mouths, but stay within the budget for a growing hungry four legged family? Pet food coupons are a great way to stretch those pennies. Signing up to a coupon site on line can open up a world of offers that will keep your pets fully fed and happily contented with their caring owners.

Registration is easy. Many of the sites will advertise lots of other coupons for household products, food and goods which will help you to save on your other family purchases. Shopping becomes easier and a whole lot cheaper when you pull up pet food coupons on your search engine.

Do you have fussy pets? The little Yorkshire terrier no bigger than your hand who rules your house and who turns regularly his nose up at the dog food he ate happily last week. Or your wonderful old red setter who has for years been happy with local supermarket own brand dried dog food, but who has now decided that he wont eat it. Never fear, pet food coupons will enable you to vary the diet of your precious pooches and offer them a whole new world of variety. Each week you check what special offers you can get with the coupons, which will save you money and tempt their fussy palates.

Have you often stood in the pet food section of the supermarket and been confused by all the different choices? Vitamin and minerals, special additives, fish oil, bone strengtheners, teeth sharpeners, glossy coat enhancers and bad breath preventers... Who's to know what's best for your beloved pets? What an awful thought that you may be withholding something vital for their diet and well-being. It's not even possible to tell what's best from reading the pet food packaging. Have you ever tried deciphering the forest of information in minuscule writing on the can or bag?

Don't fret, when you visit the coupon site you can link to the manufacturer's site for the pet food offer and check out all this information in readable print in the comfort of your own home. Getting the coupons is easier than ever - just click and print! There's no collection to be done, no paying for postage or waiting for them to arrive. You can download the coupons immediately from the site. Give yourselves a break, give your pets a life of variety, and protect your pocket at the same time. Taking the time to search for pet food coupons is a great idea.

By Candis Reade

Cat Breeding Cycle

2009-05-21T19:44:00.000-07:00

When the female is fully in season and ready to accept the male, she and the male work this out themselves and there is nothing you can do to hasten the process, she will flirt with him, rub her cheek on the floor and then offer him her backside, holding her tail on one side. He will jump on her and grab the back of her neck with his teeth. This usually subdues her and she will submit. He then straddles her and proceeds to enter her from the rear. He breeds her quickly and, when penetration is achieved, she will let loose with a blood curdling shriek.

The wise male will hurry to remove himself from her proximity before she turns and strikes out at him with her claws. Once he is out of her reach, she proceeds to roll about on the floor for several minutes, making noises.

When she has finished rolling, she will sit up and clean herself thoroughly, preparing herself for a repeat performance. Within about ten minutes, she is back at him again with her coy little noises, head rubbing and flirtatious ways.

He will again respond as before and the process repeats, complete with another shriek on her part. To achieve pregnancy, it is generally best to allow cats to mate over one or two days, although this will depend on the individual cats.

Whereas some males and females can be left together and enjoy each other's company, others will need to be separated as they can turn on each other and fight between mating. There is no truth to the notion that breeding your queen either early or late in her season will result in her having fewer kittens.

There is also no truth to the idea that you can dictate how many males and females she will have by breeding on a certain day of her season. The male determines the sex and the female determines the number of litter.

You might breed her in the middle of a heavy season, and she will conceive just one kitten. Or she might escape from her cage and have the male mate with her just once and she will conceive eight kittens. However, a litter will generally average three or four kittens.

By Paul Kramer

Cheap Veterinary Pet Health Insurance

2009-05-21T19:37:00.001-07:00

Pets, just like people, are vulnerable to accidents and disease. Even though they are small in size, hospitalizing can cost for pets just as much as it costs for people. In order to avoid huge expenses for treatments and hospitals, you need to insure your pet. However, as simple as it sounds, insurance is a very complex product. Before you insure your pet, make sure you check out the following factors.

First, make sure you know the age of your pet, or at least an estimate. Insurance companies must know this detail, because their risk increases with the age of your pet. An old pet is much more likely to get sick than a young one, and you must tell the truth in order to keep the policy alive.

Also make sure you know the breed of your cat or dog. As funny as it sounds, different breeds may get different premiums. That happens because some breeds are more vulnerable to some disease than others, and for this reason you may get higher quotes for them. However, they must be very important to you, so any price increase can be easily accepted.

Microchips are something you need to consider seriously when you apply for an insurance policy for your pet. Usually, if your pet has a microchip, you qualify for an instant 5% discount on the premium. This is a great advantage to use, and if your pet is microchipped, don't forget to specify this information on your application form. It can save you hundreds of dollars.

Last, but not least, is to make sure you get cheap pet insurance. Although insurance covers most expenses, you want to make sure that you don't waste all your money on insurance.

By Nadav Snir

Cheap Veterinary Pet Health Insurance

2009-05-21T19:37:00.000-07:00

Last, but not least, is to make sure you get cheap pet insurance. Although insurance covers most expenses, you want to make sure that you don't waste all your money on insurance.

By Nadav Snir

Pet People Are Pet Lovers

2009-05-20T01:57:00.000-07:00

When I was a kid, almost everyone had a pet dog in my neighborhood. We didn't worry much about barking, and if you stepped in dog droppings, you got laughed at for not paying attention!

This was the 1950s, before the era when dog lovers marched around with plastic baggies ready to pick up their pet's little gifts to take home. I don't think it's a bad idea to clean up after your pets, but at least dog poo is biodegradable, unlike the plastic bags they get wrapped in for the trash.

Looking a little more to the future, and I mean to the environment of all the animals, pets plants and people that will come after we're pushing up the daisies might not be a bad idea. Pet people are generally concerned about the world we live in- they are at least looking beyond their own survival to that of their beloved pets.

I've always been a pet lover, and I would extend that to being an animal lover, regardless of origin, size or even species. To me, the best part of science class in grade school was examining a drop of pond water for those hundreds or maybe millions of fascinating microorganisms swimming around.

These days we know that the measure of a healthy pond or any body of water is the number of microorganisms surviving there, and in what ratio. I know I'm sounding ancient when I say this, but back when I was a kid I never heard of polluted water, ponds or rivers you couldn't swim or play in.

My summer days were spent at the local creek in Winton Woods in Ohio, watching crayfish back under rocks and salamanders slither through the murky water. I doubt I paid any heed to washing my hands before munching on an apple.

If my granddaughter were similarly occupied, (and I hope she will be soon- she's only 4 now) I'd be after her to wash up carefully with good old soap and water.

Some things that pet lovers today may want to think about are:

• Recycling their trash

• Coming up with an alternative to collecting their dog's leavings in plastic bags

• Eating less meat

That last one may not be too popular, but industrial farming is one of the biggest polluters out there. And although I'm not a strict vegetarian (I eat some eggs, dairy, and the occasional piece of fish or chicken) I am against the brutal way that farm animals are raised and slaughtered.

Besides, it's said there are health benefits to eating less meat. Who can argue with that! Some of my favorite recipes are meat free gourmet concoctions that I've either made up myself or gotten from one of my favorite vegan cookbooks.

I know that pet people love their pets, but it's easy to be short-sighted about our own habits. You can always make a few changes and see how it goes. And you know future inhabitants of this beautiful planet (animals and people) will benefit from your selflessness. If you believe in future lives, you'll have yourself to thank!

By Merry Rosenfield