louisastilescf blog

Foresight and Planning Protects Pets in a Hurricane

2008-06-08T15:00:00.007-07:00

As in past Hurricane Seasons, pet owners and their pets may be forced to evacuate on short notice. The 2008 Hurricane Season started on June 1st and will continue until November 30th. Forecasters predict that 13-16 named storms will develop this season wi...

Stylish and decorative dog treat jar

2008-06-08T15:00:00.006-07:00

The high-quality and cheap dog treat jar is whimsical, fun, and a great decorative piece! Lead-free ceramic jars have an airtight seal that locks in freshness and flavor to keep treats tasting great. Especially if their favorite treats are served from thi...

Stylish and decorative dog treat jar

2008-06-08T15:00:00.005-07:00

Give Your Family Pets The Security Of A Pet Insurance

2008-06-08T15:00:00.004-07:00

A pet brings the owner lots of happiness and acts as the best stress reliever possible. However, it is also the responsibility of the pet owner to provide for the much required care and treatment for the pets, in return of their selfless devotion. Even if most pet owners are aware of their responsibilities and manage to keep aside a separate fund each month, to provide for pet care, unforeseen circumstances can put a spoke in their wheels. A sudden illness or disease can place a substantial financial burden on any pet owner, if he or she does not have the necessary provisions to get instant access to cash as and when required. As a result, many pets are suffering due to 'economic euthanasia' where a pet has to be put to sleep due to lack of funds for its treatment. A feasible way to prevent such acts of unintended cruelty or helplessness can be through a timely pet insurance investment.

Many companies have various plans for pet insurance and hence, offer a wide variety of choice to the pet owner. So, be it your pet dog or cat or any other exotic animal for that matter, you can find a suitable plan that meets your requirements and fits your budget with ease. A suitable pet insurance plan should be selected by judging your pet's age, gender, breed (if applicable) and its current physical condition and health. Even young animals, which are just a few months old, can be categorized under favorable insurance plans, right from the moment you bring it home, if you are prepared in advance and have planned ahead.

The common categories for which a pet insurance plan might provide the requisite coverage are accidents, injuries and illness. Some plans also go that extra mile and cover even expenses like cancellation charges for your travel plans in case you have to return home early due to a pet's illness. In case, a pet is lost, then the insurance plan may even cover the cost of placing an advertisement for your pet, in case you have carefully selected such a coverage program. Hence, while deciding upon a plan for your pet's welfare, make sure that you have done your homework well and the research is extensive. The best source of information for selecting any insurance company would be the internet or yellow pages and you could utilize these same sources when searching for a suitable company providing insurance to pets.

A reliable pet insurance company would have very competitive rates for all plans which they offer and it might be advisable to compare a few plans, before settling for the one that seems most suitable. The premium, which you will be required to pay for the plan will undoubtedly be much less than the actual cost of treatment or care for your pet, thereby, providing you with a definite financial advantage and benefit. So act in the best interest of yourself and your pet and opt for a suitable insurance plan for your beloved pet as soon as possible.

Robert Scott is a veterinary doctor and through ages having been dealing in pet insurance. If you want to know more about Pet insurance,Dog insurance,Pet insurance Online,.you can visit www.insuranceforpets.net

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Shocking Training Dog Collar Guide

2008-06-08T15:00:00.003-07:00

All dogs need training so that they learn to behave appropriately, especially in a family environment. To this end, training collars have been created to help you with this process, and they have proven to be very effective in this role. As with many things however, in the wrong hands, dog training collars can be used to hurt and abuse dogs, so you need to understand how they work and what they do.

The prong collar looks like a medieval torture device, but is actually one of the gentler training collars being investigated here. When the leash is pulled, the prongs start to pinch the back of the dog's neck. The thinking behind this is to replicate the memory of the dog's mother's teeth nipping the scruff of the puppy's neck. The collar is quite safe to use, the only real problem occurring if the fit is poor. If your dog is one that pulls strongly at the leash though, the prong collar might not be suitable.

The fit of the prong collar should be snug against the dog's neck. There is usually some leeway with these types of collars in that you can add or remove prongs to adjust the fit. A ready guide for the fit is if you can fit your finger between the collar and the dog's neck. If the collar is looser than that, it will not do it's job properly.

The Gentle Leader dog collar (or Halti collar) looks more like a harness. It works by closing the dog's mouth when you pull on the leash. The method aims to control the dog's general movement by controlling it's head. The theory being that the body will follow where the head goes. This type of collar is well suited to aggressive animals that lunge or bite.

There is a downside to this type of collar though. Dog's, as a rule, do not like having restrainers on their face, and it might be quite a job to get your dog to accept a harness of this type. Care should also be taken bot to pull the head to hard, because the dog could suffer injuries to the neck or back.

The choke collar is one of those items that can raise some people's hackles. Those that like them point to how effective they are in controlling a dog. Those that don't like them, would say that the collars are inhumane. The answer to this probably lies in the people who use the collars. Used correctly, choke collars can be very effective. Used in an inappropriate manner, the choke collar can be quite brutal.

Correct use of a choke collar starts with correct fitting. They work by tightening around the dog's throat when the leash is pulled. Equally, the tightness should be released when the trainer eases up on the leash, but if the collar does not fit correctly, this might not happen resulting in undue distress to the animal. If your dog is one that continually pulls on the leash, then the choke collar is probably not the right collar to use.

One of the newest forms of dog collar are the electronic one's. They are considered to be a very humane way to train a dog, but equally can be abused in the wrong hands.

The electronic dog collars work by allowing trainers to give dogs small electric shocks via a remote control to control the behaviour of the dog. How much of a shock the dog gets is entirely in the hands of the trainer, so in good hands, the electronic dog trainer can be very flexible and very effective. As a rule of thumb, the shock that is applied should be just enough to make the dog's ears twitch, but obviously the amount of electricity involved will depend on the size of the dog. In any case however, if the dog cries out when the electricity is applied, then the setting is too high. Once again, this type of collar is only really suitable for experienced trainers.

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Eliminate dog behavior problems with these astonishing new techniques! Dog training tips that don't hurt the dog and that still get results!

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Dog Training Myths, and Simple Dog Training Solutions

2008-06-08T15:00:00.002-07:00

"The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated." Mahatma Gandhi.

MYTH #1 -- You need to use a choke collar to leash train your dog. This is just not true and choke collars should only be used by those experienced in their use if at all. Choke collars do exactly what they say -- they cut off your dog's air supply! Needless to say, it's a health hazard and you can do serious damage to your dog's esophagus!

MYTH #2 -- You need a prong (spike) collar to train "tough" dogs. This is not true just like myth #1 is not true. Prong collars have spikes that jab into your poor dog's neck every time the leash is jerked. The truth is that most people do NOT need to discipline their dogs in this aggressive way! Only experienced dog-training professionals should be using prong collars, and they know the special situations that call for it. This collar should NEVER be used by the average dog owner.

MYTH #3 -- You need an electronic shock collar to stop your dog's barking. No feeling person should imagine that this modern convenience is a humane act, and in truth it is just not necessary. It's EASY to stop a dog's barking without using something as inhumane as SHOCKING!

Studies show shock collars work on only a small percentage of dogs and it teaches the dog to be afraid of the collar! What is worse, you are creating tremendous stress and most likely serious damage to your dog's immune system!

MYTH #4 -- You need to dominate your dog by using physical force (smacking, hitting, and choking). Your dog needs to view you and the family members as the "pack leader". But this respect is not accomplished or earned by beating your dog!!!!! In the wild, a pack leader doesn't suddenly overreact and beat its pack members into the ground.

A pack leader is calm, consistent, and fair. Sure you can beat a dog into obedience. You can smack it, yell at it, and shock it to force it to obey your every command, but this abuse will not gain your dog’s respect -- it'll just make your dog fearful of you and have to suffer a life of anxiety! It won't love you... and you will NOT have earned its unwavering loyalty. Your dog will be afraid of you, cower and grovel submissively every time you make a fast move in its direction and will always be looking for a way to escape your company.

Is THIS the kind of relationship you want with your dog? Of course not...

MYTH #5 -- You need to YELL at your dog, so it perceives you as tough. Yelling accomplishes little with people and even less with dogs that do not speak your language. To a dog yelling sounds like frantic barking -- which the dog will interpret as something is wrong! Good trainers can easily control their dogs with a quiet whisper, body language and hand signals.... And, of course, there are other less than intelligent and inappropriate training recommendations like throwing bottles filled with rocks at your dog, putting your dog on prozac, isolating it from the family, and tons more horrible actions directed at dogs in the name of discipline and training.

Make your dog LOVE you…not SCARED of you!

You may be wondering, if negative reinforcement doesn't work, why do so many dog trainers insist you should PUNISH your dog to train it?

This is how a lot of so-called "professional" trainers make their money!

These are trainers who intimidate and force the dogs to do what they want (the William Koehler trainers) that today we regard as old school “yank and crank” trainers being kind, cruel and abusive to be accurate. The problem with yank and crank trainers is the dogs seldom like their handlers and in fact are often afraid of them, and their training produces inconsistent results along with dogs that don’t like or respect their owners. If you don’t have a good bond with your dog, or if your dog does not respect you as a pack leader, you will never reach consistency in training.

A modern compassionate "Hands-Off Dog Training Program" focuses on teaching YOU how to train your dog using simple voice commands, handle signals, and well-timed positive reinforcement.

This type of training program gets results QUICKLY because your dog actually has fun!

This type of training can Stop your dog's WORST habit in just 6 days...Without laying a finger on your dog!

Problems such as:

1. Constantly pees on your favorite rug or couch

2. Barks out your window like crazy at people and cars

3. Growls at you for "invading" its favorite couch space

4. Jumps on you, your family, and friends

5. Plays too rough with your kids

6. Refuses to "come" when called

7. Ignores basic obedience commands like "sit"

8. Tries to dig or chew its way out of your backyard

9. Constantly begs for food at the kitchen table

... Or whatever other problems you may be having.

You can be taught how to tap into your dog's natural canine instincts and manipulate its behavior. And the best news is it will only take you 5-10 minutes of training per day so within just 6 days of starting this program, you'll have put an end to your dog's most annoying and destructive habits...

... And best of all, it'll only take you 5-10 minutes of training per day!

For the rest of the story, GO TO... http://www.thedogtrainingsecret.com/464987/tips

We have existed as a company since 1985, but it was a love of dogs, the dogs that have been a part of our life, and the passing of one dog in particular, Rusty, that inspired the creation of http://www.CalloftheDog.com and http://www.CalloftheDogShop.com Visit us for great information and quality dog supplies! Be sure to see our About Us page as well.

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Great Danes: Different Methods Of Training

2008-06-08T15:00:00.001-07:00

Despite their distinguishable giant and powerful built, Great Danes are generally gentle and friendly dogs. People who discovered the true nature of Great Danes can't help but admire and love them. They are kind, sweet and affectionate. They are also playful and patient with children. Great Danes are indeed four-legged giants a man could have for a bestfriend.

However, despite this breed's remarkable gentleness, they do need training just like any other dog breeds. Dog training is essential because through this process, a dog is taught to perform and master certain behaviors in order to make your dog a well-behaved one. Training a dog can be done in a lot of ways regardless of the purpose of the training - obedience, behavior, activity training or other specialized training.

One of the most effective ways to train your pet is to start at an early age. Puppies can be socialized starting at around three weeks old until around 12 weeks old. Socialization period is important because it is at this age that puppies are developing relationships with other puppies and with people as well. Aggression or other behavior problem may occur if a puppy is not properly socialized.

Some people employ the aid of crates in training their dogs. Despite the cruelty issues, a lot of people are crate training their dogs because they have discovered the value of this wonderful piece. Just remember to use the crate properly, not as a tool to punish your pet.

While other opt for crates, others consider using the product as cruelty to animals. They prefer to use reward system instead. In this method, reward such as the dog's favorite toy or treat is used to make the pet obey certain commands. Most people find this method effective, however, reward system is just like bribery. The dog will only obey the command if he is sure that there is a reward waiting for him. To deal with this, the owner should hide the reward first before giving the command. Give the reward only when he has performed the task.

Punishment method is the least recommended method in training a dog. Punishment should only be given if other methods are ineffective to a particular dog and if the dog is willfully disobeying the owner. A sharp "No" works for many dogs but others still ignore verbal reprimands.

Decide for yourself what method to use depending on your dog's age, personality, size and how he react to that particular training method. Training a dog doesn't necessarily mean sticking to one method alone. A combination of these methods may be used to achieve positive training result and come up with a well-behaved Great Danes a lot of people love.

Richard Cussons is a dog enthusiast. His site about Great Dane breed is filled with information about this breed as well as effective tips in Great Dane training.

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Stylish and decorative dog treat jar

2008-06-08T15:00:00.000-07:00

Owning Pets: The Facts You Should Know About Buying And Keeping One

2008-06-05T15:00:00.005-07:00

People want to keep pet animals for different reasons. A number of people want them for companionship and fun; others look upon them like they were family members. This article looks at various aspects of keeping pet animals, from choosing your pet, to the food and care they need, and how to take them on your travels.

Other than food, cleanliness and exercise, you also need to look at some of your pet's other needs if you want it to live a long healthy life. Follow these points, and you can benefit from keeping pets for a long time.

In the event you have a good pet ownership experience will begin from when you choose one. You may have a liking for a particular animal. But whatever you choose, you must try to get a fit animal of good pedigree.

You could choose to find a pet in a shelter for animals. However, if you choose to get an animal from a store selling them, insure the store is dirt-free and airy. Also, it should be nearby your home; the store should be open when you choose to go there. It must also stock ample amounts of pet food and accessories.

You may, in fact discover that it is easier to buy what your pet needs over the internet.

The pet supplies you buy could include supplements, medicines, tonics, dishes, pet foods and collars and tags. Pet accessories are just as important, if you expect to have a satisfactory pet-owning experience. These include toys, carriers and tools for grooming, fences, jewelry and clothes, apart from pet furniture, such as kennels and beds.

Looking after a pet is like caring for a youngster. Your attention is required, for 24 hours in the day, 7 days a week. Your pet's grooming means a number of things have to be done: bathing your pet, brushing it and trimming its nails, checking the teeth, paws, tongue and ears, ridding it of parasites, etc., and all these have to be done periodically. Decide on a qualified veterinarian, and seek his or her advice periodically.

You have to be watchful what you pet is fed. Several people who have animals at home commit the mistake of feeding them what people eat. Pet shops keep scientifically devised pet food: to given an instance, what a grown-up dog needs will differ significantly from what a small puppy needs.

Your pet should be insured with adequate pet health insurance. Your veterinarian could possibly help you choose a good health insurance, to prevent you from being saddled with large medical bills in an emergency. In addition, prepare a pet survival kit which you should keep handy at all times.

Some people like their pets to accompany them when they go out of station . If you take some precautions before you travel, you will not have any problems. If you are flying, ascertain whether the airline allows pets to go with their owners. Some airlines allow pets to be placed under the seat in carriers. But the bulk of them, insist on transporting pets as air freight.

Even if you are traveling by car, you should follow some guidelines. Carry a kennel, since several hotels will not permit pets inside suites - check before leaving.

Pay more attention to your pet during holidays, especially when there's noise, such as fireworks. Then, leave it alone and don't coerce it to be with children and other pets.

It is advisable to use a trained sitter for your pet. The sitter will finish doing the things you may not have time for, for example, taking your dog out exercising, daily.

To know more about pet care , click here: http://www.bestonline-petshop.com .

Bobby Ryatt is passionate about pets. He is a webmaster and author of well-researched articles on niche products.

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Hitting The Road With Great Danes

2008-06-05T15:00:00.004-07:00

Great Danes are playful dogs. They love almost everyone and they want to be around people. This breed will definitely enjoy a half an hour walk with dad or even just chilling in the couch with mom. They will also enjoy a five-minute ride around the neighborhood or a road trip to the nearest beach in your area. Yes, most dogs love to ride in the car. Be it a ride to granny's home or just a trip to the vet, riding a car will surely paint smiles on the faces of your Great Danes.

Get your dog to enjoy the car ride and then off you can go wherever your desires take you. Here are some tips to make the car ride enjoyable for you and your dog.

- Begin training your dog to ride in the car at an early age. Place your puppy in the car with the engine off. Feed him a treat and repeat this several times before actually going for a car ride. While your dog is sitting in the car, turn on the engine and observe his reactions. You can go for a short car ride if your dog seems comfortable. Go somewhere where your pet will enjoy so that he will quickly learn to associate the car ride with fun places such as the park or pet store.

- To prevent your Great Danes from accidents or getting sick in the car, do not give them anything to eat an hour or two before the ride. Do not allow them to drink excessively and remember to take a potty break before the ride.

- Ensure your dog's safety while riding in the car by using safety devices such as dog car seat belts, dog car safety seats, carriers and auto barriers. These devices will protect your dog in case of accident and will also prevent your dog from jumping into the front of the car or out of the car while you're driving. Before taking your dog for a ride in the car, get him used to these safety devices first to make the car ride less stressful as well as enjoyable.

- Consider the weather. Make sure that your dog is not sitting in direct sunlight. Take plenty of stops and provide lots of cold water to drink.

- Never leave a dog unattended in the car. The inside of the car is not safe for a pet even with the window closed or water available.

- Make sure that your dog wears an identification collar tag that contains your contact information. A supposed enjoyable trip may turn into a disaster when your pet got lost along the way and worst, if he is not wearing an identification tag.

Richard Cussons is a dog enthusiast. His site about Great Danes is filled with information about this breed as well as effective tips in Great Dane training.

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Great Danes: Meet The Famous

2008-06-05T15:00:00.003-07:00

Great Danes are not just amazing dogs, they are record holders too! This breed that is commonly referred to as "Apollo of all breeds" and "Gentle giant" have been in the Guinness World Records for tallest dogs. Brace yourself because famous Great Danes are coming to meet you...

Scooby-Doo

Scooby-Doo is a fictional dog and a character of the popular television series Scooby-Doo. He is the pet and best friend of Shaggy Rogers. Scooby-Doo and Shaggy Rogers have several personality traits in common including tremendous appetites and tendencies towards cowardice. They are often seen running after the costumed villains with Scooby Snacks, a dog treat usually shaped like a bone. Scooby-Doo is colored brown from head to toe with several black spots on his upper body, has a black nose, four toes on each foot and has only one pad on the sole of each of his feet.

Marmaduke

Marmaduke is a Great Dane that lives with Winslow family. He is the main character of the newspaper comic strip "Marmaduke" created by Brad Anderson in 1954. Marmaduke exhibits many characteristics not typically displayed by other dogs.

Einstein

Einstein is a gray Great Dane character in the Disney's Oliver and Company. Einstein is a friend of Oliver (a ginger kitten), the main character in the story. Both of them are part of Fagin's gang before Oliver was taken in by Jenny.

Duke and Turk

Duke and Turk are two Great Danes from Disney's The Swiss Family Robinson. The family headed to New Guinea to avoid being pressed into military service during the Napoleonic Wars. The ship was caught in a terrible storm and the family got stranded near an uninhabited island. Durk and Turk attacked the Tiger that have been stalking the family.

Hougen and Genba

Hougen and Genba, the two harlequin Great Dane brothers, are the primary antagonists in Ginga Legend Weed. Ginga Legend Weed is a Japanese manga and anime series by Yoshihiro Takahashi. Hougen and Genba were once man-eaters and cannibals.

Astro

Astro is the character in the animated television series "The Jetsons" produced by Hanna-Barbera Productions. Astro is a family dog that just like Scooby-Doo, say his words beginning with R's.

Gibson

Gibson is a Great Dane named as tallest dog in the Guinness World Records.

Richard Cussons is a writer and a dog expert. Visit greatdanesavvy.com for great information about Great Danes and Great Dane training tips.

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Knowing your Maine Coon Cat

2008-06-05T15:00:00.002-07:00

Maine Coon Cat Behavioral Characteristics

The Maine Coon cat has a variety of names, many that aren't really used that much any more, but we're going to share them with you in case you happen to run across other names in your research. Those other names are: American Coon Cat, Maine Cat, Maine Trick Cat, American Longhair, American Forest Cat, American Shag, American Snughead and don't forget Coonie. This particular cat is totally adored by many and for good reasons. The major one is their intelligence.

Maine Coon cats display a very high level of intelligence and can actually be trained much like a dog. Ok they don't always come when you call, but they can be taught tricks and some will even play fetch with you. With a high IQ like this, you want to make sure you train the cat, not the other way around. Being blessed with a mischievous sense of humor and boundless energy, you can count on the Maine Coon cat to want to play with you. Try teaching them how to play catch. Their enormous front paws, even if they aren't polydactyls, give them a great deal of dexterity.

Just watch your cat curl its paw over an object and then pick it up. They can and do manage to open cupboard doors and go in to explore. And, if you happen to have a tap that is fairly easy to turn on, give your cat enough time and he'll learn how to turn it on.

Remarkable cats, Maine Coons have also been known to eat with their paws instead of out of their bowls. Resist the urge to offer them their own fork.

If you haven't heard a Maine Coon cat talk to you, you'll be in for a bit of a surprise. Rather than offer the standard feline greeting of "rowl" or "meow" they come out with a mixed purr/trill crossed with a meow. It's quite amazing to listen to, as it seems to convey a whole story in one short trill. What will amuse you no end, is when they (you will have more than one Maine Coon cat once you start loving them) start playing and trilling while running through the house at top speed at 3:00 am. Their games of hide and seek in the nocturnal hours are really quite hysterical, so long as you have a sense of humor.

Don't be too surprised to find your Maine Coon cat in the bathtub, especially if you have a leaking tap. While they won't get under the tap to play in it, they will play with the drips with rapt fascination. Then when bored with that game they may take a drink from the tap despite the fact they have their own bowl of water out in the kitchen. Totally irrepressible these characters! Watch them dip their toys into water, and keep the toilet seat down – they've been known to drop things in the water and then try and fish them out. Another rather quirky trait they have is eyeing a bowl of water like it had a snake in it, then before taking a drink will skim their paws across the top of the water. Of course they then flip the water all over the floor when they shake it out of their paw.

Try to keep your Maine Coon cat well exercised and entertained. Why? Aside from the bonding aspect of this routine, they do get bored from time to time. And what does a bored Maine Coon cat do? Hops up on a table, the fridge or your desk and pushes things off over the edge using their large paws. Awww, gotta love them!

Aside from keeping them entertained, maybe you could also cuddle with them in your lap. Well, nice thought, but they're not really considered to be lap cats. Maine Coon cats are highly independent. That's not to say they don't adore their humans, it's just that they like to do their own thing with humans. And that usually means following them around the house and sitting by them, but not on them. So you won't find your cat begging for attention, but he will be a constant shadow, happy to be near you.

The Maine Coon Cat is an incredible animal and I hope you have enjoyed this article. There are many more articles and a free gift waiting for you when you visit my blog at www.world-of-maine-coon-cats.blogspot.com.

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How to Keep your Sneaky Cat off the Counter.

2008-06-05T15:00:00.001-07:00

Off the Counter Techniques for Your Sneaky Cat

EEEEK! There he goes again, up on the counter, the fridge, the table, the top of the cupboards and no matter what you've tried so far, nothing works. Don't you just love cats? I mean seriously, they can go wherever they want to, jump as high as they need and can give you that "HA on YOU" look when they're up where they're not supposed to be. You've seen that look, the one that says clearly you've lost your marbles because you're having a fit about them being up on things. The cat on the other hand doesn't see it as being a problem.

What can you do? There are a variety of things you can try, but to be honest, many of them work for the short term only and you have to keep reinforcing them. This isn't to say you shouldn't do them, it's a flag saying, you will have to do this more than just once. Cats are not only smart, they're very persistent and if they hopped up on the counter just once and found a treat, they will keep doing it because it paid off for them the first time. Now if you also have a Jack Russell Terrier who likes to climb on the counters – yes ON the counters via the large dog kennel for the Weimaraner, to do the same thing the cats do, then you have a doggedly different problem. However, the solutions may be the same.

The first thing to keep in mind is that cats don't understand punishment of any sort from you the same way a dog does. It just makes them shy of you and smart enough to do the offending behavior when you’re not around. How clever is that anyhow? So you want to actually condition the cat by using the environment around them. That will mean doing things that the cat doesn't associate with you.

Keep the counters clean. If you have empty bowls of yesterday's supper (chicken and rice with sauce) left on the top, guess who will be sticking their nose into it and licking the bowl. Well it won't be your children. So the lesson here is remove all temptations from out of reach of sneaky feet. If it means stashing the goodies in plastic containers, the fridge and in cupboards they can't open or in heavy metal containers, do it. That refers to their goodies. Your goodies you can keep the usual way, but out of the reach of curious paws.

Now speaking of training through the environment. You want something you can use that the cat will not associate with you right? Well, find yourself a squirt gun. Not the big ones that shoot out streams like Victoria Falls, but a light stream. Shoot from a distance and refrain from saying anything like "Ha, got cha!" Most cats don't associate a stream of water with the owner having this weird object in their hands. Will this keep them off the table when you are not home? Maybe yes, maybe no, but you won't know since you aren't there. So this calls for different measures.

Try booby-trapping your counter, and there are several ways to do this as well. One involves loud pop cans with pennies in them. Line them up on the edge of the counter. When your cat jumps up, the cans clatter down around them. Cats hate loud noises and this will keep their feet on the ground for a few days. For this method of be effective you need to do this consistently. Of course there is always the odd puss or two who could care less that they just knocked 6 or 7 noisy objects off the counter. In fact, some just snicker at the prospect of the owner coming home to – 6 cans on the floor and all the pennies scattered under the fridge. (Kidding – you actually tape the holes shut!) At best this crashing clatter will startle them, but will it deter them in the long run? Only time and consistency will tell.

There is a unique contraption on the market called the Jumpo, it's a small wing like contraption that when triggered, jumps up making a clattering noise as it flies into the air.

Try double sided sticky tape on your counters and table. But first make sure it won't stick too badly to your table surface or leave too much glue on the counters. Cats really despise walking on things that grab and stick. Running across this tape would really make them unhappy. Would it keep them off the counter permanently? Depends on how long you want to keep tape on your counters and table.

Tin foil has been known to work because felines they don't like the sound of the crinkling when they land on it. Mind you, we've seen smarty-pants cats go UNDER the foil and explore like it was a tunnel.

There is also a spray you put on your furniture. It's called "No Stay", made by a company called Pet Organics. It's got garlic oil and clove oil in it, but has no smell to humans. As soon as your cat gets on the furniture they would jump right down again. This isn't a smell they like. Usually after about a week they quit jumping up at all.

The best method we could find that will work while you are at home and when you are gone is the SSSCAT. This is a great little device that sprays a harmless, odorless gas from a small container when the cat is within 1 meter of it. The cat's motion triggers the battery operated spray container. It's economical and non-staining, and you can get about 150 sprays out of one can. It usually doesn't take that long for the cat to "get it" though.

And don't forget to try out the ScatMat. It lets go with a harmless static pulse when your cat touches it. All your cat does is walks across it and small pulses of electricity move emitting a little "zap". Your cat will learn to stay away from those areas.

I hope you have enjoyed this article, for many more articles and lots of free information, including a free book, please visit my blog at www.world-of-maine-coon-cats.blogspot.com.

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Catscape

2008-06-05T15:00:00.000-07:00

I have always said. "I don't own my cat; He owns me!" My cat, is the most possessive creature! .... but I love him. He is adorable and very spoilt. He is also good company.

Did you know????

Cats make over 100 different vocalization sounds, and their hearing is much more sensitive than humans and dogs. They are the only animals that purr.

They have 30 vertebrae, which is 5 more than humans, and have 230 bones, which is 24 more than humans.

Learn this and more when you visist: http://graceblogcom.blogspot.com

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Adopting a Pet -Where to Find Pet?

2008-06-04T15:00:00.003-07:00

Are you thinking about getting a pet? Dogs have been a companion to Man since the beginning of history. Dogs can fit your lifestyle with companionship, protection, loyalty ,whatever live alone or married with children.

Many non-profit organizations such animal rescues have been gaining popularity and support from all sorts of pet lovers. Basically what rescues do is take in animals and adopt them out to loving homes. Local animal shelters can only provide minimal support for pets needing homes. As a result euthanasia is a unfortunate reality of overpopulated shelters.

All volunteer based rescues such as southern hope human society Atlanta even go as far as fostering, transporting and placing pets in selected homes. Organizations like this run solely on the support of their communities, operating on donations and fund-raising. Without extremely dedicated and loving volunteers, rescues such as Southern Hope human society Atlanta would never exist.

Most good rescue organizations place their pets in homes that will suit both the pet and his new family. Factors such as temperament, medical history and age are all taken into consideration when placing pets in their new homes. So too should the new home match the pet. Also committed to providing education to the public and to providing low-cost veterinary services such as preventative care and spaying or neutering.

Often rescue groups receive pets that require a great deal of care and rehabilitation before they can be released for adoption. Foster homes provide that safe transition before a pet can go to their forever home.

Besides the owner-pet matching advantage, the humane society also provides comparatively low cost spaying or neutering services and preventative veterinary care. All the shots necessary for a dog or cat will already be taken care of or arrangements will be made to get those handled when the pet is old enough. Some humane societies also provide after-adoption services such as continued pet care advise and obedience classes.

Another advantage adopting from a humane society you will pay a mere fraction of the price that pet stores charge for "pure breed".

By adopting a dog, you are making a difference to the life of that pitiful creature. You give that creature the opportunity to continue living in the environment where love and care reside.

David Marshall is Dog Trainer. Owner and author of http://www.dogobediencetrainingtip.com

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How Can I Keep My Dog Cool In the Summer

2008-06-04T15:00:00.002-07:00

As the summer begins to heat up you will most likely be taking your dogs on more walks outside and you will probably enjoy playing with them in the sun. However, for all the fun you are going to have, you must be thinking about your dogs health.

By not keeping a dog cool in the summer you are opening the door for heat-related illnesses and injuries to plague him/her.

You may be surprised but dogs are actually able to get a sun burn. If you have a white or lightly colored dog, they are just as likely to suffer from a sunburn as we do when exposed to the sun. If a dog undergoes long-term sun exposure they can suffer from skin damage and possibly skin cancer.

To prevent this from happening you are going to need to limit the amount of time your dog spends in direct sunlight. you need to consult your veterinarian immediately If you notice any type of discoloration or sore. Common areas that are effected are the nose, ears, and eyelids.

Your dog can also suffer from heat injury if they are exposed to the sun for to long. Heat injury is when your dog's body temperature exceeds it's ability to cool itself. Your dog's normal body temperature is between 100 and 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. If your dogs temperature rises above 106 F, it's normal cooling mechanisms get overwhelmed which causes a heat stroke which will require medical treatment.

Large double-coated breeds are more susceptible to a heat stroke. Huskies and other dog breeds suited for cold climates also have a low tolerance for heat and humidity.

The best way to prevent a heat stroke is to give dogs a summer hair cut. If you go to a good groomer they will be able to cut your dog's coat down a few inches which will allow them to dissipate the heat better. It is important that you do not get the dogs hair cut all the way down to the skin because this eliminates their protection from sunburn and other injuries.

During the midday heat you should keep your dog indoors in either a well-ventilated area or an air conditioned area. If you are going to take your dog on a walk or play with them you should do it later in the night or earlier in the day when it is less hot outside.

Keeping a dog cool is very important because it protects them from a heat stroke and from getting sunburned. This article should have enlightened you on the two conditions and ways to help keep your dog cool during the summer.

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The Cat Spray Woes!

2008-06-04T15:00:00.001-07:00

The Cat Spray Woes

Oh my, you've been there and done that haven't you? Especially if you happen to own a cat (pardon me – if they own you)! Spraying in the house is the number one behavior that is guaranteed to drive you right up the wall and right around the bend. It makes you just want to tear your hair out in frustration. There MUST be a way to stop this!

The Whys!

First let's look at why cats spray in the house in the first place. You probably know they're marking their territory, but honestly they aren't doing it just to ruin your day. They aren't hiding what they do and they haven't spent their leisure hours plotting to upset you. This kind of behavior is instinctual and genetically programmed into your Cat. They spray because it's their way of telling other cat that this spot is theirs. Call it a form of staking claim to ownership – ownership of your house. While they mean no harm and are operating innocently, this just can't happen inside, and you're getting mighty tired of Fluffy backing up to the new couch and letting fly.

Don't despair, there is a way to make this stop and it usually starts by making a few adjustments in your house.

Spraying or Urinating?

You might not care too much right now whether your Cat is spraying or urinating as all you know is you want it to stop. Well, you need to know if they are simply taking a pee or are really marking their territory. So take a look and see what is happening. If they're just taking a pee, they will be doing that in the usual manner, butt down in the litter box (or outside in a hole they dug for the same purpose).

If they're marking their space, they literally turn their backside to the object, back up, twitch the tail and take aim at a spot just about where another cat's nose would be if one were standing there. Cat urine contains pheromones (chemical substances) that give off certain messages. So it's either spraying or sending a clear "I'm ready to mate," signal. And, if you're wondering if all cats spray, the answer is yes they do, although it is more common in un-neutered males. As for intact females, they usually don't spray, but there have been instances where they leave a marker for a tom letting him know they are in heat.

This kind of behavior rarely happens if the kitten was fixed at about six months of age. Having said that though, being spayed/neutered is no guarantee that spraying won't happen later in life, as it is usually stress related. Stress can be due to a move, a new person in the house or a new animal added to the mix. And yes, males are the heaviest sprayers. If your cat is urinating on the floor, carpet, bedding, clothing lying about, this is not spraying. This is peeing where they should not pee, or inappropriate elimination. There are a couple of reasons why this may be happening, and the first one may be due to a bladder or urinary tract infection because of crystals that have formed in their urine. If they make pained sounds while doing this, head for the vet to get them checked out.

If you don’t think that's the problem, then you have a cat that is generally speaking "peed off" about something. This could also be because of several things such as rivalry for the affections of another cat or they totally have a hissy fit over another cat being in their space. Just because you may have a multi-cat house does not mean all cats get along together. They all have their own individual personalities.

The other problem could be litter box related. Cats are really fussy about having a clean box in a private place to do their business. They also like to have a spare box around somewhere in case the main one is too busy or doesn't smell like they want to use it. Litter boxes need to be cleaned on a regular basis and totally emptied at least once a week. This is sort of like a numbers game. If you have one cat, one box should suffice. Two cats, three boxes will work. Eight cats? Ideally four boxes, but you could squeak by with three that were cleaned religiously. Chances are though if the boxes are busy one of your brood will take exception to the toilet facilities and find an alternative spot (one you WON'T like). By the way, have you changed your brand of litter lately? Or moved the box? Felines are notoriously fussy about things being where they expect them to be and as they like them. If you have changed the brand of litter you use or moved the box, try putting things back the way they were and see what happens. It's a little like having a two-year old pitch a fit over having to eat peas isn't it?

How to Stop Spraying

The first thing you need to do is figure out if there is any kind of a pattern to your cat's spraying behavior. In other words, where is the cat spraying? In the same location – say right by the back screen door? Near patio doors that lead outside? This may mean there's been a visitor who left their own calling card and your feline is laying down a challenge and saying (spraying) "Bug off, this is my place". The easiest solution to something like this is to try and block access to the door/window and see if that makes any difference.

There are commercial sprays on the market that claim they will stop cats from spraying and really, all you can do is give them a try. Some of them may be effective and some of them may just encourage the behavior. But, before you try something like this, figure out why your Maine Coon Cat is spraying where they are spraying.

Castration is usually touted as the best route to stop this behavior, but as we have already read, it's not a hundred percent guarantee that the habit won't develop later in life. If you neuter after spraying has started, it usually acts to reduce the frequency. Here's a few statistics you might find interesting. It was apparently done on older cats and it said roughly 87 percent of all males stopped spraying after castration, 78 percent stopped right away, 9 percent stopped within a few months and 13 percent kept right on spraying. Well despite the numbers, castration/neutering has good odds going for it.

Another option, and one that many cat owners would rather not do, is put your cat on anxiolytics (anti-anxiety drugs) such as Clomicalm and Valium. Although they are used to treat spraying, many who have tried this route say their cats became zombies while on these drugs. If that isn't something you want to consider for your feline, then you may want to try the pheromone approach.

Using herbal therapies may be something else to contemplate as well. For instance one of the best-known remedies to calm pets is Rescue Remedy used approximately 2 to 3 times a day. It won't stop the spraying, but it may calm your cat and as a result reduce or stop the spraying.

Using pheromones is a natural approach rather than chemical. Feliway is a product you might be interested in trying. By all indications, it seems to work rather well by diffusing a placating pheromone into the air that conveys a sense of well being and safety to your Cat. You could also try orange or lemon oil on cotton balls, either placed in the areas they spray or wiped in those areas. Cats aren't particularly fond of either smell.

Another approach is something called SSSCAT that combines a motion detector and an aerosol can that spits out a harmless spray. The theory is that if this is repeated often enough it will keep you cat away from where they are spraying.

Or you might take a fancy to Scatmat that releases a harmless static pulse when your cat touches it. This works when your pet walks across the mat and small pulses of electricity move through wires in the vinyl emitting a small "zap". Your cat (or dog) will learn quickly to stay away from those areas.

If your cat always seems to let loose in one or two areas, change what that area is used for. This may divert his attention and the spraying will cease. For instance if you put food, bedding or a scratching post in the spots where your cat sprays, this may make them stop. Cats rarely spray in their sleeping, eating or scratching areas. There is the possibility they may move along to another spot, but once again, try diversion tactics.

And if all else fails, see if you can find "stud pants" or even a re-useable baby swim nappy and modify it to fit over the tail. Both these alternatives will allow the urine to pool in them.

How to Clean the Mess

Clean the areas with alcohol. Do not use bleach because bleach has ammonia in it and that is the primary component of urine and will only encourage them to re-offend. Or you can use laundry detergent with enzymes. Then use 50% white vinegar and 50% water in a spray bottle and spray the area.

For carpets use baking soda, white vinegar (the acid neutralizes the ammonia in cat pee), and warm water. Here's how this one works. Use paper towels to get as much urine as you can up from the carpet. Keep doing that until you hardly get any moisture up. Wet the area with 50/50 white vinegar/warm water- enough to get down to the carpet backing. Sprinkle with baking soda and let it foam. Now let it dry to a hard surface. Then vacuum up the spot.

I hope you have enjoyed this informative article about dealing with spraying cats, please reprint it on your website or in your ezine. This resource box must be included with the article. For more articles and a free cat ebook please visit my blog at www.world-of-maine-coon-cats.blogspot.com.

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Tips for Training your Dog

2008-06-04T15:00:00.000-07:00

It is very important to train your dog as soon as it has been brought it into your life. However, many dog owners grasp the concept that having a dog will be an easy path to love and friendship. Nothing is ever that simple, especially when dealing with an...

Dog Guide: Buying A Boxer Dog

2008-06-03T15:00:00.001-07:00

To those who are planning to buy a Boxer dog, the impulse is probably to head to the nearest pet store and choose from among the many Boxer dogs available for sale. Another option, the easiest option perhaps is buying through the web. There are lots of websites with cute photos of cute puppies that made your heart swell with delight. But buyers beware! Elaborate and colorful websites with cute photos of puppies don't always guarantee you that you will be getting a good one. You cannot even tell the characteristics or health condition of a potential puppy by simply staring at the eyes, the common mistake of dog buyers.

Dog buyers, especially inexperienced one, should keep in mind that buying a pet requires not just an eye to eye contact nor a best snapshot posted on the site. It requires a lot of inquiries, careful observations and did I say, inquiries? When buying a dog, it is important that you should get as much information as you can. Ask the breeder everything you want to know about the dog. Reputable breeders should have tested the breeding stock before breeding to make sure that the parents are not carriers of faulty genes and that only good qualities will be pass on to the next generation. Ask about the dog's temperament, whether he is shy or assertive and the possibility of aggression. The right to ask is not for you alone. Breeders too will ask questions, lots of questions in fact. A reputable breeder will ask questions to find out if you are responsible to keep these amazing creatures as pets and if you have the capacity to provide the needs of your chosen dog. Some are even conducting background check and area inspection before you will be given the opportunity to buy the puppy. Don't be annoyed with these what seem to be endless procedures and questions for they are just ensuring the welfare of the puppy. These people care about the dogs and they just want to make sure that the dog they entrusted to you won't end up in rescue shelters or worst, abandoned on their own until they die of hunger or dehydration.

Evaluate yourself as well. Are you fit and capable of having a Boxer dog? Do you have the time to exercise with your pet? Remember that Boxer dogs are active dogs and need regular exercise to keep them fit. If you are a busy buddy and cannot spare a little of your precious time to attend to your dog, then this is something you might want to consider.

Richard Cussons writes articles about Boxer dog. Visit boxersavvy.com and learn more about Boxer dog training.

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Boxer Dog: Using Crate

2008-06-03T15:00:00.000-07:00

Some people deem that crating a Boxer dog is one way of being cruel or inhumane to the animal. But over the years, more and more people are using crate because they have discovered the value of this wonderful piece. If used properly, using a crate is not bad after all. It offers a lot of benefits in fact. Though it looks like a jail to some people, dogs don't see it that way. The crate is something they can call their own, where they feel secure and comfortable. Again, if used properly.

Using a crate will give you peace of mind knowing that your dog is right confined in his comfortable crate, especially when you really need to leave him alone and no one is there to watch him on the loose. You can also be sure that nothing will be soiled or destroyed while you are away. Your favorite pair of shoes is safe therefore! Not just that. Crate is an ideal housebreaking aid too. Dogs are den-dwelling creatures and would not soil their dens as much as possible. This will motivate your Boxer dog to wait until taken outside.

The crate should suit your dog's needs inorder to really maximize its uses. It should be large enough to allow your dog to move and turn around, stretch out and stand without hitting his head. However, it should not be too large to give the dog the chance to soil one side and move to play and sleep in the other side. If your dog is still a puppy, choose a crate that will accommodate his adult size. In this way, you wouldn't be needing to buy one when your Boxer is a grown dog already. Practical, right? Just block off the excess space so your dog can't eliminate at one end and retreat to the other end. The crate should also be comfortable to keep your pet warm during winter or to keep your pet cool during the hot days.

Place the crate in a sheltered place and as much as possible, in a place where the family members stay most of the time. Keep the crate clean and provide easy access to fresh water at all times. And remember, never use the crate to punish your pet. The crate is your dog's home, not his prison cell, so never use it to punish him.

Richard Cussons writes articles about Boxer dog. Visit boxersavvy.com and learn more about Boxer dog training.

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Finding The Right Pet Stroller For Your Boxer Dog

2008-06-02T15:00:00.000-07:00

Now that you have decided to get a stroller for your Boxer dog, the next step towards a relaxing, comfortable and safe trip is to purchase one. But before you finally dash to the counter and pay for your chosen pet stroller, make sure that the one you chose is appropriate for your dog and suit the activities you and your dog will be doing. Below are the few things to consider when purchasing a dog stroller.

- Pet stroller capacity is one of the most important factors to consider when purchasing a stroller intended for your Boxer dog. Lucky if you have a small dog, pet stroller capacity is not an issue. However, if you have a large pet that weighs more than 25 lbs., make sure that the pet stroller you purchased can carry the weight of your pet.

- The functionality is another factor to consider. You may want or need to transport your pet by hand in carriers so it is a better idea to choose a pet stroller with detachable carriers that separate from stroller frame.

- There are several types of pet stroller. If you plan on jogging with your pet, then you need a stroller specifically designed for jogging. This type of stroller provides maximum stability. Other strollers are designed for long distance trips and some with detachable carriers. Choose which one best suits your needs.

- A pet stroller should have a lot of storage space especially if you are planning to take your pet on long journeys. Some strollers have pouches, pockets or trays used for storing things like pet treats, water bottles, keys and other. Consider this when purchasing.

- Naturally, pet stroller price varies based on the type, functionality and design. The price however, is not a guarantee that you will be getting everything that you need. Choose a good quality one and keep an eye on imitation strollers for they have already started showing up on market. Look for genuine and good quality brands to ensure safety and prevent wasting your money. When purchasing, consider also the shipping charges and shipment. Read and understand return policies to find out if the policy is fair.

With all the variety of pet strollers to choose from, be sure to choose carefully. Remember that your dog's safety is at risk so choose carefully.

Richard Cussons has written various articles on dogs. Visit boxersavvy.com for great information about Boxer dog and effective Boxer dog training tips.

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Dog Adoption: Just The Facts

2008-06-01T15:00:00.001-07:00

When considering the birth rates among animals, easy to understand why animal shelters are always filled with animals waiting to be adopted. Shockingly, it has been said that over a seven year period, one female cat and her offspring will produce over 400,000 kittens.

And not to be outdone, Dog offspring will produce 65,000 puppies during a six year period. Since there are more animals looking for homes than there are people who want to adopt them, some 6.5 million animals are put down each year.

Given the statistics cited above, adopting an animal can be a kind and loving thing to do. However, before making the final decision to adopt, there are a number of things to consider.

Many of the animals awaiting adoption in shelters have had very rough start in life. Some were abused, some abandoned and some were "given up" because the owners didn't have time for them. Many were left alone for long periods and some were never properly trained.

Many adopted dogs will come to the new location with fears based upon earlier mistreatment. Some dogs will be reluctant to go from one room to another, will shy away when corrected and hide when hearing a loud noise.

New owners must be patient with them and speak to them softly and affectionately. Dogs are not stupid and they will gradually come to understand their new environment and show their appreciation for your loving care.

Adopted dogs are subject to behavioral problems commonly associated to dogs in general. These would include digging, jumping up on people, jumping fences, barking and nipping. There are proven solutions to all of these problems.

If your dog is prone to digging, and always digs in one area, there are a number of effective repellent sprays that work well. If he digs under your fence, buried chicken wire works wonders in breaking that habit.

Spray bottles filled with water should be kept at hand to break a dog from jumping up and to combat incessant barking.

Visiting an animal shelter can be an emotional experience for an animal lover. It's difficult to see all the animals in their pens and not want to take them all home. Such feelings are understandable and commendable; however, just be sure that prior to adoption you consider all of the ramifications. And remember, your best friend is waiting for you at your local animal shelter.

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Dog Grooming Ideas: Top Five Tips on Controlling your Dog in the Bath

2008-06-01T15:00:00.000-07:00

by Donna Manio

Perhaps one of the greatest misconceptions about dog grooming is that dogs like and actually enjoy bathing as compared to cats. While felines clearly show abhorrence for water, some dogs may feel just exactly the same. Fido, Spot, Bingo, or Rocky may not be up for taking a swim in a little old tub, so if you’re a dog lover why not try these fool-proof dog grooming ideas that can help control your little pooches in the bath?

Tip number one:

Remember that by all possible means, your dog will try to weasel its way out of the water. Do not even assume that your pet will cooperate and just ‘sit’ and ‘roll over’ as you attempt to douse it with some water and shampoo. This will only make it easier for your pet to escape. A good follow up for this tip is to decrease your dog’s anxiety. Forget that you’re the ‘boss’ or ‘master.’ Show your dog some compassion by joining it in the bath or by bring playthings as reward for being obedient.

Tip number two:

Another excellent dog grooming idea that can help control your dog in the bath is to not over coerce your dog into staying in the tub. This will only bring disastrous results, such as turning your bathroom into an unrecognizable mess and soaking you with water. Look at it this way: you are potty training your little pup and would not want to seem too threatening. Try to ‘convince’ the dog by giving it the idea that water is fun. Use toys and treats. Use reprimands only in extreme cases--- you do not want your dog to have any water-related traumas! The result of this will be rewarding. Your dog will actually stay in the tub. If you’re worried about getting too much water around the tub, make sure to lay out towels around it.

Tip number three:

To be able to make the most of your dog’s bath, one good thing to consider is the strategic placing of all the necessary bathing tools. This will let you devote your time and attention to your dog and not to looking for shampoo, soap, and towels! This will also allow you to work at a more leisurely pace, making your dog feel at ease. Remember that a seemingly frantic dog groomer will only trigger your pet’s anxiety.

Tip number four:

If faced with a very stubborn and uncooperative dog, the best dog grooming idea that can help control your dog in the bath is to use a leash. A leash will give you the advantage of having both hands to lather up your dog. It also doesn’t seem threatening and coercive, since it is a familiar tool your dog encounters almost every day. Just make sure it isn’t too tight.

Tip number five:

Imagine all possible blunders that may happen after giving your pooch a bath. This may include soaking you with water because of shaking and getting out of the bathroom to go to dirty areas with soil. Such incidences will defeat the purpose of your bath. Always remember to have more than one towel ready so that you can dry your dog before you leave the bathroom. Also do not forget to close the door, as your pet might make a mad dash away from the shower. Make sure your dog is mostly dry before you leave the confines of your bathroom.

Hopefully, these dog grooming ideas will help control your dog in the bath. These are just a few tips if how you can maximize bath time with your dogs. You can be creative and come up with other strategic ideas of your own.

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The Characteristics Of The Curly Coated Retrievers

2008-05-29T15:00:00.008-07:00

Sponsored by:- John Holmes

www.healthier-dogs.com

The curly-coated Retriever is commonly believed to be of earlier origin than his flat-coated relative, and he is of less pure descent.

He probably owes ancestral tribute to the Poodle. Such a cross may conceivably have been resorted to by the early Retriever breeders, and there was little to lose from a merely sporting point of view from this alien introduction, for the Poodle is well known to be by nature, if not by systematic training, an excellent water dog, capable of being taught anything that the canine mind can comprehend.

During the early years of the nineteenth century the Poodle was fairly plentiful in England, and we had no other curly-coated dog of similar size and type apart from the Irish Water Spaniel, who may himself lay claim to Poodle relationship; while as to the Retriever, either curly or flat coated, he can in no sense be assigned to any country outside of Great Britain.

The presumption is strong that the "gentleman from France" was largely instrumental in the manufacture of the variety, but whatever the origin of the curly-coated Retriever he is a beautiful dog, and one is gratified to note that the old prejudice against him, and the old indictment as to his hard mouth, are fast giving place to praise of his intelligence and admiration of his working abilities.

Speaking generally, it seems to be accepted that he is slightly inferior in nose to his flat-coated cousin, and not quite so easy to break, but there are many keepers and handlers who have discovered in individual specimens extraordinary merit in the field combined with great endurance. It is not certain that any great improvement has been effected in the variety during recent years, but there are particular dogs to-day who are decidedly better than any that existed a dozen years or more ago, when such celebrities as True, Old Sam, King Koffee, Ben Wonder, Doden Ben, Lad and Una, were prominent, and there is no doubt that the curly coats attained show form in advance of the flat-coated variety.

The coat of the curly Retriever plays a very important part in his value and personality. There are many kinds of coat, but the only true and proper one is the close-fitting "nigger curl," of which each knot is solid and inseparable. A coat of this quality is not capable of improvement by any method of grooming, for the simple reason that its natural condition is in itself perfect. The little locks should be so close together as to be impervious to water, and all parts of the body should be evenly covered with them, including the tail and legs. A bad class of coat, and one which readily yields to the faker's art, is the thin open curl which by careful manipulation can be greatly improved. Another bad quality of coat is one in which, upon the withers and over the loins in particular, the curls do not tighten up naturally, but are large, loose, and soft to the feel. Regarding the dog as a whole, the following may be taken as an all-round description:-

GENERAL APPEARANCE…

That of a smart, active, clean-cut and alert dog, full of go and fire--a sportsman from stem to stern.

HEAD…Long and not weedy in the muzzle, nor thick and coarse in the skull, but tapering down and finishing with a stout broad muzzle.

SKULL…Should be flat and moderately broad between the ears, which are rather small, and well covered with hair.

EARS…Should lie close to the side of the head, but not dead in their carriage.

FACE…The face should be smooth, and any indication of a forelock should be penalised.

EYE…The eye should in all cases be dark and not too deeply set.

NECK…Well placed in the shoulders and nicely arched, of moderate length and yet powerful and free from throatiness.

SHOULDERS…Well laid back and as free from massiveness as possible, though there is a decided tendency in this variety to such a fault.

LEGS…Straight and well covered with coat. The bone should show quality and yet be fairly abundant.

FEET…Compact and hound-like.

BODY…Should show great power, with deep, well-rounded ribs. As little cut-up in the flank as possible.

TAIL…Strong at the base, set on in a line with the back and tapering to a point, the size of the curls upon it diminishing gradually to the end.

HIND-QUARTERS…Should show great development of muscle, with bent hocks, the lower leg being strong and the hind feet compact. Any suspicion of cow hocks should be heavily penalised.

COLOUR…Mostly a dull black. Some liver-coloured dogs are seen with very good coats and bodies, but their heads are generally thick and coarse, and the colour of their eyes does not always match, as it should do, with the colour of the coat. A few dogs of this colour have achieved distinction on the show bench.

Sponsored by:- John Holmes

http://www.healthier-dogs.com

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The Characteristics Of The Retrievers

2008-05-29T15:00:00.007-07:00

Sponsored by:- John Holmes

http://www.healthier-dogs.com

It is obviously useless to shoot game unless you can find it after it has been wounded or killed, and from the earliest times it has been the habit of sportsmen to train their dogs to do the work which they could not always successfully do for themselves. The Pointers, Setters, and Spaniels of our forefathers were carefully broken not only to find and stand their game, but also to fetch the fallen birds. This use of the setting and pointing dog is still common on the Continent and in the United States, and there is no inaccuracy in a French artist depicting a Pointer with a partridge in its mouth, or showing a Setter retrieving waterfowl.

The Springer and the old curly-coated water-dog were regarded as particularly adroit in the double work of finding and retrieving. Pointers and Setters who had been thus broken were found to deteriorate in steadiness in the field, and it gradually came to be realised that even the Spaniel's capacity for retrieving was limited. A larger and quicker dog was wanted to divide the labour, and to be used solely as a retriever in conjunction with the other gun dogs.

The Poodle was tried for retrieving with some success, and he showed considerable aptitude in finding and fetching wounded wild duck; but he, too, was inclined to maul his birds and deliver them dead. Even the old English Sheepdog was occasionally engaged in the work, and various crosses with Spaniel or Setter and Collie were attempted in the endeavour to produce a grade breed having the desired qualities of a good nose, a soft mouth, and an understanding brain, together with a coat that would protect its wearer from the ill effects of frequent immersion in water.

One very remarkable attribute of the Retriever is that notwithstanding the known fact that the parent stock was mongrel, and that in the early dogs the Setter type largely predominated, the ultimate result has favoured the Labrador cross distinctly and prominently, proving how potent, even when grafted upon a stock admittedly various, is the blood of a pure race, and how powerful its influence for fixing type and character over the other less vital elements with which it is blended.

From the first, sportsmen recognised the extreme value of the new retrieving dog. Strengthened and improved by the Labrador blood, he had lost little if any of the Setter beauty of form. He was a dignified, substantial, intelligent, good-tempered, affectionate companion, faithful, talented, highly cultivated, and esteemed, in the season and out of it, for his mind as well as his beauty.

It is only comparatively recently that we have realised how excellent an all-around sporting dog the Retriever has become. In many cases, indeed, where grouse and partridge are driven or walked-up a well-broken, soft-mouthed Retriever is unquestionably superior to Pointer, Setter, or Spaniel, and for general work in the field he is the best companion that a shooting man can possess.

GENERAL APPEARANCE…

That of a well-proportioned bright and active sporting dog, showing power without lumber and raciness without weediness.

HEAD…

Long, fine, without being weak, the muzzle square, the underjaw strong with an absence of lippiness or throatiness.

EYES…Dark as possible, with a very intelligent, mild expression.

NECK…Long and clean.

EARS…Small, well set on, and carried close to the head.

SHOULDERS…Oblique, running well into the back, with plenty of depth of chest.

BODY…Short and square, and well ribbed up.

STERN…Short and straight, and carried gaily, but not curled over the back.

FORE-LEGS…Straight, pasterns strong, feet small and round.

QUARTERS…Strong; stifles well bent.

COAT…Dense black or liver, of fine quality and texture. Flat, not wavy.

WEIGHT…From 65 lb. to 80lb. for dogs; bitches rather less.

As a rule the Retriever should be chosen for the intelligent look of his face, and particular attention should be paid to the shape of his head and to his eyes. His frame is important, of course, but in the Retriever the mental qualities are of more significance than bodily points.

There has been a tendency in recent years among Retriever breeders to fall into the common error of exaggerating a particular point, and of breeding dogs with a head far too fine and narrow, it is what has been aptly called the alligator head, lacking in brain capacity and power of jaw. A perfect head should be long and clean, but neither weak nor snippy. The eye should be placed just halfway between the back of the neck and the tip of the nose.

It is pleasing to add that to this beautiful breed the phrase "handsome is as handsome does" applies in full measure. Not only is the average Retriever of a companionable disposition, with delightful intelligence that is always responsive, but he is a good and faithful guard and a courageous protector of person and property. It has already been said that the majority of the best-looking Retrievers are also good working dogs, and it may here be added that many of the most successful working dogs are sired by prize-winners in the show ring.

Sponsored by:- John Holmes

http://www.healthier-dogs.com

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Keep it Real: The All-Natural Pet Diet

2008-05-29T15:00:00.006-07:00

Everybody knows that an all-natural diet is a healthy diet. It's no coincidence that what's good for you is also good for your dog and cat. It's also no secret that – aside from the buzzwords – most people don't know enough about what “all-natural” means.

We are surrounded by eco-friendly, holistic catch-phrases: all-natural, free-range, green, organic. However, most of us don't look beyond the words on the label to understand exactly what they are paying for when opting for these newer, healthier alternatives. Natural foods – simply stated – are those that contain no artificial additives or preservatives. When you and I are shopping at the grocery, this is what we are finding in our natural foods aisle. Are the rules the same when it comes to our pets?

In a sense, yes. Our dogs and cats are just as vulnerable to the negative affects of artificial food supplements as you and I are. These can lead to a number of negative health issues that will affect your pet's quality of life. However, when it comes to a pet's diet, “natural” usually also means “species specific.”

Although many pet food manufacturers probably have good intentions and stand behind their products, the ingredients in mainstream dog foods seem to indicate that quality can suffer in the name of profits. A quick look at what goes into most commercial dog and cat foods, reveals a make-it-cheap mentality that can cause negative effects on your pet's health. Many manufacturers use “4D” meat in their pet foods. “4D” is a category that includes meat that comes from diseased, down, dying and dead animals. These ingredients are then combined with grain fillers to create the cheapest products possible.

“4D” meat may seem utterly unpalatable to you and I, but your dog has a digestive system that can handle less than optimum meats. However, like most pet owners, you probably want more nutritious ingredients going into your dog's meal. As far as grain fillers go, your dog and cat have no need for these things in their diet and are not benefiting from them in any way. Add a nasty mix of sugar, salt, cancer-causing chemicals and preservatives; cook any remaining nutrients out, and you've got yourself a standard can of dog or cat food. Is there a better way?

There are a number of alternatives for your pet that are healthy and species specific. A species specific pet diet is one that is geared to match your pet's nutritional needs, without negative or superfluous ingredients. For instance, your cat is a carnivore. Your cat needs meat and meat only. There is no need for you to pad your cat's diet with grain and vegetable fillers. For dogs, an omnivorous diet is more appropriate, but most commercial foods are high on filler and low on important meat proteins and fats. Some pet owners are choosing to feed their pets an all natural, species specific diet, by cooking for their pets: creating homemade meals just like the ones they are cooking for themselves and their family members. For some owners, this might be a great alternative, but many find that this path is time consuming and difficult. Luckily, there are now a variety of all-natural pet foods available from suppliers who are dedicated to providing pets with species specific diets.

The Trippet company sells a variety of great dog foods that make species specific considerations a high priority. Trippet Duck and Salmon Tripe Dog Food gives your dog a great combination of meaty protein and lots of Omega 3 fatty oils. Their Trippet Green Beef Tripe Dog Food formula incorporates plant nutrients in combination with the digestive enzymes that allow dogs to metabolize them. Tiki Cat has a number of great all-natural cat food solutions such as Tiki Cat- Hawiian Grill -Ahi Tuna, and Tiki Cat - Molokai Lanai - Tuna in Crab Consommé. Both are full of the protein your little tiger needs, without excess fillers and flavors.

Always ask your vet when you are considering changes to your pet's diet. Chances are you'll find that fresh, natural, healthy food is as important to your pet as it is to you.

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New Diet Tricks for Older Dogs

2008-05-29T15:00:00.005-07:00

Human beings have been living with their dogs since the time we first began to domesticate wild wolves. They are our companions, our protectors, and - thanks to our ongoing partnership - our dogs are living longer. Improved diet, vaccinations and veterinary care all add to greater longevity and increased quality of life. However, the same diet that gives your dog the energy and nutrition it needs to grow and develop as a puppy, can become a detriment as your pet reaches its later years.

Generally speaking, your dog will begin to undergo significant physiological changes as it enters the last third of its normal life expectancy. This spectrum of changes can include: arthritis, cognitive issues, restless sleep, incontinence, vision and hearing loss, loss of muscle mass, weight gain and/or weight loss. All of these conditions should be addressed by your veterinarian, and many of them can be improved – if not corrected – through changes in diet and the addition of dietary supplements to your pet's regimen.

As your dog ages, one of the main health challenges it will face will be the tendency to gain weight. Just like their human counterparts, a dog's metabolism slows as it ages. Issues with joints and loss of muscularity also contribute to a decrease in physical activity as your dog becomes older. Most dogs need a relatively rich diet when they are young, but once they begin to slow down, what was once a healthy meal can become a dangerous threat.

When picking out food for an aging dog, it's important to reduce fat and calories, while also increasing fiber intake. These modifications will keep your dog happy and full without packing on the pounds. Lucky for dog owners, there are now plenty of great options to choose from. Origen Senior Dog Food is a great example of an all-natural, kibble formula that specifically addresses the nutritional needs of older dogs.

While certain dog food products may prevent unwanted weight gain, others can address the arthritis and joint degeneration issues that typically plague aging canines. One great way to help your pet maximize its mobility through the years, is by rewarding it with yummy, joint-friendly treats. Dogswell Chicken Happy Hips are a delicious snack that contains glucosamine and chondroiton, the same supplements that happy dog owners may be using for their own arthritis and joint pain. These snacks compliment an older dog's lean, healthy diet, while delivering additional nutrition to keep it playing like a puppy well into its later years.

In addition to dietary changes and the healthy benefits of an active lifestyle, your dog may require additional supplements to maximize energy and fitness, while staving off the deleterious effects of getting older. Once again, you and your best friend may have more in common than you realize. Like most people who adopt a multivitamin regimen as they age, your dog can benefit tremendously from the additional nutrition that supplements can offer.

There is a wide range of supplementary products for pets on the market, and some of them are specifically formulated to address specific conditions your older dog may be facing in its advancing years. Again, you should take the issue of supplements up with your veterinarian, but it is likely that you will be instructed to enhance your pet's diet with additional supplements to help your dog maintain some the functions it may be loosing as it ages. Products like Prozyme Diet Supplements replace the digestive enzymes older dogs don't produce enough of. By helping your dog to digest more efficiently, it will eat less and be more likely to maintain a healthy weight. Other products - like Solid Gold Flaxseed Oil - can protect against a number of degenerative conditions while also helping to maximize your dog's immune system.

With a little homework and the advice of your vet, you can keep your aging dog healthy and happy, and make sure you and your best friend have a lot more great times together!

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Pets and Exercise: A Great Fit

2008-05-29T15:00:00.004-07:00

It may seem surprising, but one of the reasons that you think of your pet as your best friend is that you actually have a lot in common. Whether you own a dog or a cat, you both like to have fun, you both crave affection, and you both need exercise to stay healthy. In fact, making sure your pet is getting the right amount of exercise for its size can involve many of the same common sense approaches you would apply to your own exercise regimen.

Just as it is with their owners, pets need exercise if they are going to stay healthy, active and live a long, quality life. Nowadays, many pets live in urban environments that can make adequate exercise a real challenge. Unfortunately, many owners simply don't care for their pet's need for exercise. Consequently, many pets suffer from health problems that could easily be avoided by the proper amount of activity. By following a few simple rules, you can make sure your best friend is getting the right amount – and right kind – of exercise.

A great many ailments and conditions can arise from an inadequate amount of exercise, the most serious and widespread of which is obesity. How many times have you or a friend joked about the funny way one of your overweight pets waddled across the kitchen floor? In fact, obesity among pets is no laughing matter.

Obesity commonly arises from a number of factors. Many dogs are left alone, inside for long periods of time. Some cats spend all their time indoors. Many small pets don't have exercise wheels in their cages, or – in the case of birds - adequate space to fly about. All of these situations restrict movement and create a sedentary lifestyle. In addition, many pet owners don't take their animal's relative lack of activity into account when it comes to their pet's diet. As a result, many pets are fed far too many calories in relation to the amount of energy their inactive lives actually require.

The deleterious effects of obesity can vary, but all are serious. Primarily, obesity puts a great deal of stress on the body, exacerbating pre-existing conditions like heart disease, orthopedic disease, and some skin conditions. Obesity can also play a role in causing chronic diseases like diabetes.

If you own larger pets, the need for exercise is greater than with small pets. Large breed dogs, or even big cats can require much more exercise than their smaller counterparts. This is partly do to the fact that a larger animal needs much more space to get adequate exercise, where a smaller pet may get a good amount of activity in a much smaller area. Larger animals should get at least 20 minutes of exercise, twice a day. Just like with their human counterparts, this should be vigorous work that emphasizes strength, flexibility and cardiovascular endurance. For a large dog, a traditional game of fetch can be great exercise, especially when combined with some good old fashioned tug-of-war between throws. Try using the My Good Dog Vibram Stick, for a new twist on this favorite, canine pastime. For a bigger cat, a similar game with a Cat Dancer Cat Charmer can provide great fun and aerobic activity.

If you own a smaller pet, you can arrange for adequate activity with less space. Many times intermittent game-playing can be adequate. Anything from friendly rough-housing with a small dog, to ball rolling can be a great way to keep your pet fit, and spend quality time together in the process. Add extra challenge by throwing a My Good Dog Vibram Ball into the fun. With smaller cats, a toy like the Cat Dancer Mouse in the House can provide lots of fun, fit play, even when you're not home to enjoy it together.

Always consult your vet with questions regarding exercising your pet. If your pet hasn't been getting enough exercise, start slow and work your way up the same way you would if you just joined a new gym. With a little common sense, both you and your pet can become healthier – and closer – than ever!

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Good Looks Mean Good Health: Nutrition and Your Pet's Coat and Scalp

2008-05-29T15:00:00.003-07:00

Good Looks Mean Good Health: Nutrition and Your Pet's Coat and Scalp

2008-05-29T15:00:00.002-07:00

We've all heard the old saying that “beauty is only skin deep.” While only the most superficial among us would argue with this statement, it doesn't hold true where health is concerned.

Our skin is the largest organ in the integumentary system - which also includes the hair and nails that cover our body - that protects us from exterior threats, including sharp objects and viruses. The skin plays an important role in temperature regulation (sweat), insulation, sensation, the synthesis of vitamin D, and the excretion of waste.

As one of the main sites of waste disposal, the skin is also one of the best windows into health that exist. When we are eating a healthy diet, and living and active lifestyle, it shows on the skin. The same is true when we are eating junk food and too many sweets. It shows! This is the reason that even someone in their 30's can break out in a bout of acne after one-too-many pieces of fudge at the office holiday party. When it comes to health, the surface of the skin can be the most important indicator of the nutritional value of our diets. If you want to look and feel great on our outsides, we have to consider what you are giving to our insides. The same lessons hold true for our cats and dogs.

Despite the hirsute nature of our furry companions outer coverings, their coats – and the scalp underneath – serve many of the same functions as our own skin. And – just like us – their diet can make all the difference when it comes to maintaining the health and luster of their coats.

Good skin nutrition requires the supply of a number of nutrients including vitamins B and A, copper, zinc, fatty acids and proteins. Deficiencies in an numerous essential fatty acids, amino acids, minerals or vitamins will cause various changes in the structure of the skin, and can also lead to a dangerous undermining of the skin's vital functions. By maintaining proper levels of proteins, fats, vitamins and minerals in your pet's diet, you will go a long way toward insuring that your dog or cat will maintain a beautiful coat and healthy skin.

Skin contains a large amount of protein. It also serves as a reservoir of sorts when the body is lacking in protein and must maintain reserves. The individual hairshafts that make up your pet's coat are primarily composed of protein. When the skin is not receiving enough of this vital component a number of conditions can arise, resulting in rashes, lesions, decreased hair production and decreased diameter of the hair fibers. No matter the condition, all of these symptoms can be irritating, painful, unattractive, and can begin to erode the more crucial aspects of the skin's protective role. In addition, fats and fatty acids provide crucial nutrients to your pet's scalp and coat. Without these nutritional essentials, your pet's coat will not shine with the luster and soft-to-the-touch feel that is pleasing to the eye and indicates healthy nutrient levels in the diet. Luckily for modern pet-owners, there are plenty of products available to take the guess-work out of caring for your pet's scalp and coat nutrition.

If you are the owner of a playful feline who is having issues with its coat, think “fish”. You know your cat loves fish and the oils that are so good for your skin are great for your furry friend as well. Tiki Cat – Molokai Lanai – Tuna in Crab Surimi Consomme is a great choice for skin soothing oils. If you are happy with your cat's current food, but want to give it a boost of Omega 3 oils, try Solid Gold Flaxseed Oil. The oil is a nutritional powerhouse that will insure your cat is getting enough of what it needs. The oil is also great for dogs. Dogs and Cats may also benefit from snacking on Snack 21 Salmon Flakes. The yummy flakes will make those coats shine better than ever.

Talk to your vet about your pet's scalp and coat. And remember – where your pet is concerned, beauty is more than skin deep.

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The Characteristics Of The Curly Coated Retrievers

2008-05-29T15:00:00.001-07:00

The Characteristics Of The Curly Coated Retrievers

Sponsored by:- John Holmes

www.healthier-dogs.com

The curly-coated Retriever is commonly believed to be of earlier origin than his flat-coated relative, and he is of less pure descent.

He probably owes ancestral tribute to the Poodle. Such a cross may conceivably have been resorted to by the early Retriever breeders, and there was little to lose from a merely sporting point of view from this alien introduction, for the Poodle is well known to be by nature, if not by systematic training, an excellent water dog, capable of being taught anything that the canine mind can comprehend.

During the early years of the nineteenth century the Poodle was fairly plentiful in England, and we had no other curly-coated dog of similar size and type apart from the Irish Water Spaniel, who may himself lay claim to Poodle relationship; while as to the Retriever, either curly or flat coated, he can in no sense be assigned to any country outside of Great Britain.

The presumption is strong that the "gentleman from France" was largely instrumental in the manufacture of the variety, but whatever the origin of the curly-coated Retriever he is a beautiful dog, and one is gratified to note that the old prejudice against him, and the old indictment as to his hard mouth, are fast giving place to praise of his intelligence and admiration of his working abilities.

Speaking generally, it seems to be accepted that he is slightly inferior in nose to his flat-coated cousin, and not quite so easy to break, but there are many keepers and handlers who have discovered in individual specimens extraordinary merit in the field combined with great endurance. It is not certain that any great improvement has been effected in the variety during recent years, but there are particular dogs to-day who are decidedly better than any that existed a dozen years or more ago, when such celebrities as True, Old Sam, King Koffee, Ben Wonder, Doden Ben, Lad and Una, were prominent, and there is no doubt that the curly coats attained show form in advance of the flat-coated variety.

The coat of the curly Retriever plays a very important part in his value and personality. There are many kinds of coat, but the only true and proper one is the close-fitting "nigger curl," of which each knot is solid and inseparable. A coat of this quality is not capable of improvement by any method of grooming, for the simple reason that its natural condition is in itself perfect. The little locks should be so close together as to be impervious to water, and all parts of the body should be evenly covered with them, including the tail and legs. A bad class of coat, and one which readily yields to the faker's art, is the thin open curl which by careful manipulation can be greatly improved. Another bad quality of coat is one in which, upon the withers and over the loins in particular, the curls do not tighten up naturally, but are large, loose, and soft to the feel. Regarding the dog as a whole, the following may be taken as an all-round description:-

GENERAL APPEARANCE…

That of a smart, active, clean-cut and alert dog, full of go and fire--a sportsman from stem to stern.

HEAD…Long and not weedy in the muzzle, nor thick and coarse in the skull, but tapering down and finishing with a stout broad muzzle.

SKULL…Should be flat and moderately broad between the ears, which are rather small, and well covered with hair.

EARS…Should lie close to the side of the head, but not dead in their carriage.

FACE…The face should be smooth, and any indication of a forelock should be penalised.

EYE…The eye should in all cases be dark and not too deeply set.

NECK…Well placed in the shoulders and nicely arched, of moderate length and yet powerful and free from throatiness.

SHOULDERS…Well laid back and as free from massiveness as possible, though there is a decided tendency in this variety to such a fault.

LEGS…Straight and well covered with coat. The bone should show quality and yet be fairly abundant.

FEET…Compact and hound-like.

BODY…Should show great power, with deep, well-rounded ribs. As little cut-up in the flank as possible.

TAIL…Strong at the base, set on in a line with the back and tapering to a point, the size of the curls upon it diminishing gradually to the end.

HIND-QUARTERS…Should show great development of muscle, with bent hocks, the lower leg being strong and the hind feet compact. Any suspicion of cow hocks should be heavily penalised.

COLOUR…Mostly a dull black. Some liver-coloured dogs are seen with very good coats and bodies, but their heads are generally thick and coarse, and the colour of their eyes does not always match, as it should do, with the colour of the coat. A few dogs of this colour have achieved distinction on the show bench.

Sponsored by:- John Holmes

http://www.healthier-dogs.com

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Tick, Tock...Springtime is Pest Prevention Time

2008-05-29T15:00:00.000-07:00

Spring is in the air again. The birds are singing. The rain is falling. The flowers are blooming, and – if you own a dog or a cat – flea and tick season is in full effect. These pests can make the summer months a pain in the neck – and the wallet – for beleaguered pet owners. But, if it's a bad time of year for you, imagine how your fuzzy companion feels? Luckily, for every problem there is a solution, and with a little education, this is a battle you can win. What's the first step? Know your enemy!

The life cycle of fleas includes four separate stages: egg, larva, pupa and adult. The life cycle can last from as little as two weeks up to a full year. Fleas prefer humidity and high temperatures. For this reason, their numbers tend to expand during the warm summer months.

Fleas are wingless, parasitic insects. These vampiric little guys live off of the nutrients they find in the blood of any number of mammals and birds. Clearly, any encounter with a flea is bound to bother you pet, but a certain kind of allergic reaction to the flea's saliva can lead to irritation, rash, and a significant loss of fur from excessive itching, scratching and biting at the infected area. This reaction is called “flea allergy dermatitis.” These irritated sore spots are prime targets for secondary infections, complicating an already messy problem. Even if your pet isn't prone to this irritation, fleas can also carry Lyme disease and tapeworms.

Ticks are also parasites, but they infect every class of terrestrial vertebrate from mammals and birds, to reptiles and amphibians. Unlike fleas, ticks are not insects. From the class Arachnidia, the tick is more closely related to the spider, and the scorpion than it is to the ant. Despite their numbers – and number of possible hosts – there are only a few varieties of ticks should worry people and their pets. If you live in an area that is populated with ticks, you must take precautions for you and your family. Ticks can transmit serious diseases like Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever to pets and owners alike.

The first step in protecting your family and your pets from fleas and ticks is some solid research – so far so good – and the advice of your veterinarian. Make sure you inform your vet about the kind of neighborhood you live in. Are you an apartment dweller in the city, or do you make your homestead on a wooded country road? Your location as well as your pet's habits and characteristics will help determine the level of protection your furry friend will require.

In order to prevent fleas and ticks from becoming a problem in the first place, your vet will probably recommend a prevention product like K9 Advantix. Products like Advantix - or the Dog or Cat versions of Advantage - are topical flea treatments that are used just once a month. They stop fleas from biting in less than five minutes, and can kill 98 to 100 percent of the fleas on pets within 12 hours. These products will keep on fighting fleas for a full 30 days. Applied before the start of flea season, these products can keep your dog from becoming infested in the first place. Used year-round, it prevents fleas from wintering in your home.

When you are first learning the ugly truth about fleas and ticks it can seem like a horror movie: blood-sucking monsters attacking my pets? Of course, it's not quite that serious. With a little common sense, the advice of your vet, and a proven product that deliver results, it looks like this is shaping up to be a great summer!

Eric West is the proud parent of 2 giant maine coon cats and the VP of http://www.pawschoice.com, the webs #1 destination for health conscious pet owners for all natural and organic pet food, treats and toys.

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Does Your Boxer Dog Need Pet Stroller?

2008-05-28T15:00:00.000-07:00

With the latest trend on pet strollers, you will probably ask yourself whether your Boxer dog really need one. Perhaps some people consider pet strollers as lavishness because that is what they want to think about. Why not look into the bright side to know the benefits one can get from having this stuff?

While a lot of people consider this unnecessary, there are some who find pet stroller a great idea in various situations. Whether you enjoy hopping from one city to another visiting scenic places or just stroll around malls with your Boxer dog, this one is great for you. Pet strollers give comfort and ensures safety when traveling with your pet. With your dog placed in pet stroller, you will never have to experience the ordeal of controlling your dog on a leash around many people and lessen the chances of getting your dog lost in a strange place. Moreover, paw problems can also be prevented. Pet stroller keeps your dog's feet clean and protected from harm caused by hot concrete, or trash on the sidewalk or road. Injured, disabled or old pets need stay inside the house for the rest of their lives. They need sunlight and fresh air and still need to socialize and mingle with other normal dogs. Don't deprive them of those things. Even if they can only walk limited distances or cannot walk at all, take them outdoor and let them enjoy the sunlight or inhale fresh air with the help of pet stroller. Veterinary trips will now be easier as well. The stroller will keep your pet off the floor visited by other sick dogs thus lessen the risk of contamination by contact.

Pet strollers do not just keep your pets safe from road dangers and disease contamination but are also user friendly. A lot of people prefer pet strollers over pet carriers because you do not have to lift and carry a pet stroller to transport your pet from one place to another. But if in any case you want to transport your pet by hand in the carrier, you can do so because some pet strollers come with detachable carriers that separate from the stroller frame- convenience and functionality all in one. Convenient, isn't it?

With all the uses of a pet stroller, can anyone say that it is unnecessary? You just have to choose which one is appropriate based on your dog's weight, height and personality. Naturally, you do not want to place your 25-pound Boxer dog on a pet stroller that can only carry a dog weighing 15 pounds.

Richard Cussons is a writer with knowledge on Boxer dog and other breeds of dog. Discover more Boxer dog training tips at boxersavvy.com.

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How to Protect Against Dog Attacks and Dog Bites

2008-05-27T15:00:00.000-07:00

Of all the things going on in my world of self defense and home security products-burglary, rape, assault, self defense, home security, et.al. I get more calls and more inquiries on this topic than any other. To me it is amazing. Yet there it is! IT BLOWS ME AWAY!! HOW TO PROTECT AGAINST DOG ATTACKS AND DOG BITES.

More than women's self defense, more than self defense, more than home security, more than any other single topic-this is, as they say, the pick of the litter.

Anecdotally the other day I got a phone all from a frantic lady whose daughter and her pit bull puppy were attacked when they went to a doggie park. She was scared to death and her daughters' dog almost got killed.

I am not going to get preachy here but c'mon. Dogs are animals. Animals have instincts. One of those instincts is to fight and in some instances kill. It makes no difference if your dog is trained or not. When those instincts kick in, dogs will do what dogs do. Best you or your kids not be in the way.

The very first article I wrote about this nearly 18 months ago I recommended a dog pepper spray and a dog repeller that sends out an ultrasonic noise only dogs can hear. That was then.

Now I recommend a full strength Mace Pepper Gel and an 800,000 volt stun baton. The reasons for the change are simple. Dogs that run loose in my humble opinion do not deserve any consideration nor do their owners. Far too many people get hurt or traumatized by charging dogs not on leashes.

Some breeds do not respond well or at all to traditional fixes.

There is no certain way to prevent a dog from charging you and your best friend.

You have every right to do what you need to do to protect yourself and your dog!

"WHEN YOU CARE ENOUGH TO STUN and SPRAY THE VERY WORST"

Jack Krohn is the #1 author of Home Security Articles in the country. He owns SECURITY SOLUTIONS a one stop resource that provides solutions and answers for all your self defense and home security problems.

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South China Tiger

2008-05-26T15:00:00.027-07:00

One of the smaller tiger subspecies, the South China Tiger weighs around three hundred and thirty pounds in case of males and two hundred and forty pounds for females. Average length is eight feet for males and seven and a half feet in case of females. Color is reddish orange and underparts are white. The dark stripes are short and spaced relatively broadly in comparison to other tigers. Tail appears to end rather abruptly than taper off as in case of other tiger subspecies.

In the past when South China Tigers were studied in the wild, they were known to inhabit moist forests in rocky terrains. They used to hunt a variety of prey species though predominant prey were probably ungulates. Livestock were also reportedly taken at times and human beings attacked by the big cats. They were nocturnal and perhaps solitary cats. Their range was dense jungles of south-central China in an area bordering different provinces.

Though various fragmented reserves exist in the past range of South China Tiger no tiger has been documented for decades in these parts. There are reports of paw prints, hearing of roars and rare sightings but no solid proof exists that tigers still inhabit the woods of a country that once was home to four different subspecies of tigers. Experts believe that at the most there could be twenty to thirty of the Amoy Tigers in the wild but fear these too are on the brink of extinction owing to severe inbreeding.

Gestational period for South Chinese Tigers is three and a half months following which a litter of one to five cubs is born in the wild. The young begin to accompany the mother on hunts at two months of age and learn hunting at six months. They gain independence between one and one and a half years of age.

The author is a blogger about cats and an expert on South China Tiger.

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How To Make Your Home Safe For a Chihuahua

2008-05-26T15:00:00.026-07:00

If you are thinking about bringing a pet Chihuahua into your home, you need to know how to make your home safe for a Chihuahua. There are many possible dangers that are commonly overlooked by careless owners.

One danger for a Chihuahua is the possibility of being injured by children. If you have small children in your house, you should always keep them away from your Chihuahua. Chihuahuas are small and it doesn't take a lot of force to cause serious injuries to them. You don't want any children pushing or pulling on your Chihuahua and causing injuries to them.

Just like small children, large dogs can also be a danger to Chihuahuas. If you have large dogs inside your home, keep them in a separate room until your Chihuahua is fully grown and accustomed to being around your large dog. Even if your big dog is nice and sweet, they can still be provoked by your Chihuahua, causing a dangerous fight to break out.

One danger which is often overlooked is household chemicals which could be potentially fatal to your small Chihuahua. These chemicals can be laundry detergent, dish washing liquid, bleach, fertilizer, pesticides, cleaning agents, anti-freeze, and many others. It's a good idea to keep all dangerous chemicals out of reach from your Chihuahua, and never let them roam free anywhere where there could be chemicals.

This is something you are probably aware of, but haven't thought of it as much of a danger. That is having a dirty house. Chihuahuas, for some reason, like to lick things up off the floor. It doesn't matter if it is bacteria-filled dirt, or a piece of food, which is why you should keep your home tidy and clean. Having a clean house will keep your Chihuahua from being able to lick up anything dangerous off the floor.

Before you bring your Chihuahua into your home, make sure there are no physical areas which could injure them. Something like a broken stair, or an open balcony could be very dangerous for a Chihuahua trying to explore their new home. Just walk through your home making note of dangers and fixing them as you go along.

These are some of the most common household dangers for a Chihuahua. Make sure you are bringing your Chihuahua into a safe home by going through and checking all the listed dangers.

Chihuahuas are more than just pets. They become a loving part of our family and it's important for us to treat them with love and respect. I hope this article helps you!

Visit our website to shop one of the largest selections of Chihuahua clothes, and be sure to check out our Chihuahua clothes blog for updated information and advice.

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Amur Leopard

2008-05-26T15:00:00.025-07:00

Panthera Pardus Orientalis or Panthera Pardus Amurensis, the Amur Leopard weighs in the range of eighty to one hundred and sixty pounds for males and between sixty to one hundred and twenty pounds for females. Body length is in the range of five to seven feet for males and four to five feet for females. The big cat is distinguishable from other leopard subspecies by virtue of its stunning coat which takes a brighter glow in summer months and turns relatively pale in winter, when it also increases in length from one inch to three inches to provide protection against the harsh cold. The relatively long legs are also believed to assist the leopard in treading through snow in winter. Rosettes are larger with thicker borders and greater spacing in this subspecies.

Solitary and nocturnal felines, the Siberian Leopards live in forested habitats of Sikhote-Alin mountains of southern Russia. Skilled predators, they avoids direct competition with the Amur Tiger whilst hunting. They prey mainly on wild boar, sika, musk and roe deer, badgers, rodents and hares. Reputed to be good swimmer and climbers, they are capable of jumping twenty feet horizontally and ten feet vertically.

The leopard is seen mainly in Southeastern Russia where twenty five to thirty four individuals are believed to exist. Less than ten of the reclusive cats are thought to reside in the Chinese Northeast. Perhaps a few animals exist in North Korea but there is no way of confirming that for the time being. Loss of habitat and prey in China and Korean peninsula means the outlook is bleak for the leopard except for some scattered areas of Far East-Primorskii region of Russia.

Breeding season for the Amur Leopard is in spring and early summer. Pregnancy lasts for three to three and a half months following which one to six cubs are born that open their eyes at around ten days of age. They are weaned off at three months and gain independence at one and a half to two years. Sexual maturity is reached at nearly three years of age. Lifespan in captivity is known to be up to twenty three years.

The author is a blogger about cats and an expert on Amur Leopard.

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Looking For Quality Dog Beds

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Finding a dog bed is fairly easy, if you are looking at size or style alone. But finding a dog bed that will give your dog support and comfort for years to come is a little more difficult. Here are some tips to help you find a quality dog bed that will last.

Look for dog beds with quality, durable materials. Canvas is a great material for a cover because it is soft and very durable. Great choices are canvas and denims. Another must-have when searching for a durable dog bed is maintenance. The easier it is on you, the owner, to clean and maintain the dog bed, the more likely it will be maintained; therefore guaranteeing a long wear. Find a dog bed that has an easily removable cover that is washable. Styles in cover options such as stain, mildew resistanr and dirt resist materials. You can therefore maintain a bacteria free large bed.

Special materials such as latex dog beds are also available. Latex dog beds are great because they are incredibly comfortable, all natural and very long-lasting. The natural foam rubber molds to the shape of your dog, providing great comfort, as well as durability. Latex is also one of the only materials that is completely washable, so you can clean the entire dog bed, not just the cover.

If your dog spends most of his or her time outside, it is worth looking into a good outdoor bed. Outdoor beds should be completely waterproof, or they won't last very long exposed to the elements. Find a manufacturer that makes waterproof beds that guarantee against water leakage into the filling. This way, you know that it will stand up to outdoor use.

If you have a large breed dog, it's even more important for you to have a durable bed, as larger dog beds take much more abuse than smaller dogs. Extra large dog beds are manufactured to hold up to this as on the other hand, cheap beds may be bigger but aren't going to last. Industrial strength covers are a must for these dog beds. Also, it helps to find covers that are chew-resistant. Many large-breed dog beds are available with orthopedic filling and easy access that can help large dogs with ailments such as joint pain.

Durability is incredibly important when considering a dog bed. The need for superior comfort and long lasting quality for your dog is a challenge, but once you find the best, it will last a lifetime. Shop around and find the best; your dog deserves it.

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Joede writes about vet recommended designer dog beds and quality extra large dog beds for your best friend.

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Asiatic Cheetah

2008-05-26T15:00:00.023-07:00

The fastest land mammal, Asiatic Cheetah, like other subspecies of this amazing big cat, is built for speed. A long and sleek body is balanced on slim, athletic legs with semi-retractable claws that enable the cat to maintain grip on ground in high speed pursuits. Weighing in the range of eighty to one hundred and fifty pounds, it is between four to five feet in length with a near two and a half feet tail that acts as a rudder to stabilize the Cheetah as it makes quick turns in hunts. Height is about two and a half feet. Fur color is tawny and hair are short and coarse. Black spots mark the length of the body. Head is small and eyes are high set. Dark tear like markings that run from the inside corners of eyes, across the side of nose to mouth are thought to protect the Cheetah's eyes from direct impact of sun's rays as it chases its prey in bright daylight.

Residing in the barren lands of Iran, Cheetah is a traditionally a daytime hunter. In Africa this is an adaptation to avoid conflict with other bigger predators like lions, hyenas and leopards that are active at night. Little is known about the behavior and habits of the Asian Cheetah, though it is known to prey upon gebeer and goitered gazelle, wild goat and urial sheep. Cheetahs have strong jaws and kill by the throat hold that suffocates the prey animal. It is estimated that if they come within two hundred yards of the prey by taking cover from bush and grass, avoiding notice, then they have a reasonable chance of success in making the kill. Unlike other big cats, Cheetahs can be tamed and were used for centuries by maharajahs in India to bring down gazelle, earning the title of 'hunting leopard'.

Acinonyx Jubatus Venaticus, the Asiatic Cheetah is currently recorded in desert and semi-arid shrubland in scattered regions in Iran. Some unconfirmed sightings have been made in the past in the Balochistan province of Pakistan, however there is no evidence to back them up. Cheetahs are to an extent migratory cats and often move around in search for prey. This is particularly true in case of females who don't hold as strongly to a territory as males.

Not much is known about the reproductive profile of Asiatic Cheetah. Mid winter is believed to be the peak breeding season for the cats even though they have been documented to mate year round. Litter size is reported to be between one to four cubs with two being the average. Independence is probably reached at eighteen months. Lifespan is up to twelve to fourteen years.

The author is a blogger about cats and an expert on Asiatic Cheetah.

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Leopard Facts

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Following are some interesting facts about leopards.

1. Leopards are the most successful and cunning among big cats. They put their intelligence to good use in their hunting activities.

2. Like most cats, leopards are solitary creatures that hunt mainly at night. They rest during day usually in trees and come down at night time.

3. Leopards have a very beautiful coat with a tawny background and rosettes, that aids them in camouflage. Their coat is distinct from that of Cheetah and Jaguar.

4. The Snow Leopard is a most remarkable cat that operates in extremely difficult terrain and climate conditions at the top of the world - the Himalayas.

5. The Clouded Leopard has the longest canines amongst cat species.

6. The Amur Leopard is one of the most endangered animals in the world.

7. The Bornean Clouded Leopard is one of the most significant newly discovered mammalian species.

8. Leopards are masters of stealth and extremely difficult to trace and locate in the wild.

9. Pound for pound, leopards are the strongest among big cats.

10. Leopards are the best tree climbers amongst big cats and are capable of taking prey that is twice their body weight, up a tree.

11. Melanistic variants among leopards - black leopards - are known as panthers.

12. Leopards are territorial animals and regularly mark and defend their domain against intruders.

13. Man-eating leopards always operate at night since unlike tigers they never lose their fear of man and only enter human territories in the cover of darkness. This makes them very difficult to counteract.

The author is a blogger about cats and an expert on leopard facts

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Asiatic Lion

2008-05-26T15:00:00.021-07:00

Panthera Leo Persica, the Asiatic Lion or Asian Lion once roamed over a range extending from Greece to South Asia, but relentless human persecution has meant it is now restricted to a single reserve in the west Indian state of Gujarat, by name of Gir Forest.

Apart from size, the other features that distinguish the Asian Lion from African Lion include a bushier coat, smaller mane that exposes their ears, a central skin fold that runs across the belly and longer tufts of hair at elbows and tip of tail. Weight is in the range of four to five hundred pounds for males and two hundred and fifty to three hundred and fifty pounds for females. Body length is between six to seven feet excluding a three foot tail, with females being smaller, though larger individuals of around nine feet have been recorded.

Asiatic Lions live in dry deciduous forests and scrub lands of the isolated Gir Forest of slightly over one thousand square kilometers. Between three hundred to three hundred and fifty individual cats exist in this sanctuary in an overcrowded environment, often straying outside park boundaries and coming into conflict with locals. Prey includes Spotted Deer, Sambhar, Goat, Nilgai, Buffaloes and even some smaller animals. Cattle are often attacked and killed and so are camels, bringing them under ire of locals. Attacks on humans are more frequent these days owing to the shrinking habitat and growing numbers of lions, pushing them more often into bordering human territories. Social animals, Asian Lions live in smaller pride units than their African counterparts. A couple of females live with one to two males who are somewhat solitary and come together when the family dines. The lesser numbers in prides in these lions are often attributed to the smaller prey animals that are available to these hunters, making it difficult for the social cats to share in large numbers. Hunting is cooperative and chiefly done by females, with males joining at times to bring down bigger prey like buffalo.

Also known as Persian Lions (during their period of existence in Persia) and Indian Lions, these majestic big cats have only one sanctuary on the planet, the Gir Protected Area of Indian Gujarat. Millions of dollars have been spent in creating a separate reserve in Kuno-Palpur National Park in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh but the State Government of Gujarat refuses to lend a few of its lions to populate the new sanctuary which is now believed to be ready to receive its first batch of the great cats. It is widely believed that the Gujarat Government wants to keep its monopoly on the tourist trade by keeping its troubled lions jammed in the only place in the world where they can be sighted in the wild, thus bringing the entire subspecies into risk through inbreeding. Furthermore, a single epidemic or environmental catastrophe can wipe out the entire wild population of the last lions of Asia.

Asiatic lions begin to mate with the coming of winter in October and November. Pregnancy lasts near three and a half months (one hundred and three days) following which a litter of three to four cubs is born. The young are introduced to a solid diet at three months and begin hunting at nine months of age. They gain independence when they are an year old. Maturity is reached between three to four years of age. A female can successfully reproduce once every two years. Lifespan is up to seventeen years in the wild and twenty four years in captivity.

The author is a blogger about cats and an expert on Asiatic Lion.

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Bengal Tiger

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Solitary cats, Bengal Tigers are territorial animals. They hunt at dusk and dawn and regularly mark their territory by scent to keep out other tigers from their hunting and breeding grounds. In some national parks where they are protected, tigers have been recorded to be active in daytime as well. Generally tigers prefer to stay in shade during daylight hours, particularly in the scorching summers of South Asia. Territories are smaller than those of Siberian Tigers owing to shrinking habitat of the tigers in India. Males roam over an area of twenty square miles and females hunt in a slightly smaller range of seventeen square miles. Often the territory of a single male overlaps those of several females, with whom he frequently mates. Tigers usually have more than one den in their range for them to choose as their haunt for a particular period of time.

Bengal Tigers are at the top of their ecosystem and play an active role in maintaining the delicate balance of India's threatened natural fauna and flora. They prey upon a variety of animals including wild boar, sambar, barasingha, nilgai, gaur and water buffalo though the spotted dear, also known as chital, forms the bulk of their diet. At times smaller animals including hares, peacocks, langurs and monkeys are also consumed. Tigers are not above scavenging and often eat putrefied carcasses. Extremely strong, Bengal Tigers are known to attack and kill the largest prey animals in India including the Asiatic Elephant and Rhinoceros. They are estimated to have the strength of twelve adult men and can carry a fully grown cow over a ten foot fence. Aggressive animals, these great cats often kill adult crocodiles over conflict. In reality, nothing is safe from a wild tiger in the jungles of India if it makes up its mind to hunt it.

The most untamed of India's tigers reside in the largest natural delta on earth - the Sunderban forest of Bengal where the sacred river Ganges opens into the Bay of Bengal. An estimated near three hundred and five hundred tigers reside on India and Bangladesh's side of this vast mangrove wetland. Landlocked through ever-changing tides from the hunting maharajahs and colonial British of the past centuries, these wild tigers have never learned to respect man. These tigers are expert swimmers and amongst the most notorious big cats when it comes to man-eating. Their victims are ever so often the honey collectors and fishermen of Sunderban (literally meaning beautiful forest). Even though Core Areas and Buffer Zones have been designated to separate the predator from man, the extremely poor villagers go deep into tiger territory to search for honey and fish. The result is a number of deaths yearly that the locals have learnt to live with as the continual cycle of life and death in that part of the world. Still the conflict fares badly for the tiger which runs the risk of being poisoned and killed as in many other parts of the subcontinent where it is being victimized, by villagers for revenge, and poachers for profit. Despite its fearsome reputation the tiger is believed to be a large hearted gentleman that generally avoids human by most experts including the famed hunter turned conservationist Jim Corbett who understood more about the big cat more than half a century ago than most do today. Most human kills by tigers according to him were the result of surprise, provocation, old age, injury, loss of prey or coincidence. Once tigers learn that humans are relatively easy and defenseless prey, some take to man-eating.

Recorded in Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal and parts of Tibet, the Bengal Tiger is essentially the pride of India and Bangladesh where it is given the status of national animal. Highest numbers are known to exist in scattered reserves in India where its numbers have shrunk from tens of thousands nearly a century ago to less than fifteen hundred today. Tigers survive in a variety of tropical habitats including marshlands, brush and grasslands.

Mating season for Bengal Tigers is between winter and spring. Females are receptive for three days to a week. Pregnancy lasts for around three months after which three cubs are born on average. The young are particularly vulnerable to adult male tigers in the vicinity who will frequently kill the cubs they haven't fathered to bring the female into estrus and establish the perpetuity of their own genetic line. At eleven months of age, the cubs are able to hunt for themselves. They stay with their mother for up to two to three years of age after which they move off to fend for themselves and take up a range of their own. Lifespan in the wild is fifteen years, and in captivity seventeen years on average.

The author is a blogger about cats and an expert on Bengal Tiger.

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African Lion

2008-05-26T15:00:00.019-07:00

A massively powerful animal, the African Lion weighs in the range of four hundred and fifty to five hundred and fifty pounds for healthy adult males whereas females are usually in the range of three hundred to three hundred and fifty pounds. Length is between six to eight feet for males and five to six feet for females, excluding a near three foot tail. Significantly bigger individuals have been recorded though. The largest wild lion ever weighed was close to seven hundred pounds. In captivity a specimen of well over eight hundred pound is documented. Height at shoulders is close to four feet for males and three and a half feet for females.

The lion's coat is tawny in coloration and plain. Fur is short and somewhat coarse. Males are distinguished by their big mane that covers head, neck and part of belly and back. The mane is pale in coloration initially and goes through shades to golden to black as the lion ages. A black colored full mane signifies a mature lion with good breeding potential and is often preferred by lionesses for a partner. In some parts of Africa, including Senegal and notably Tsavo, Kenya, maneless male lions are recorded, possibly in adaptation for the thorny habitat of that regions. Overall the built is muscular for both sexes. Lionesses are more athletic since it allows them to excel in hunting, their primary role in the pride. Male lions are bulkier since the added weight and strength allows them to fight off intruders and defend the pride's territory. Weapons include sharp claws and near three inch canines. Jaws are powerful and skull is bigger than any other cat specie. Eyes are set in front as in case of most land predators rather than on sides as in case of prey. The field of vision that is so essential for prey animals to look out for hunters comes with widely set eyes. This visual field is compromised in favor of better depth perception and binocular vision in lions that comes with relatively narrowly placed eyes, that aid them in judging distance from prey for pouncing upon it. Tail has a tuft of hair that covers the spine at the tip of tail. Belly skin is loose and shields the internal organs from viscous kicks of hunted ungulates during a kill.

Social cats, African Lions are apex and keystone predators. They live and hunt together, increasing the chances of success and survival for themselves and their cubs during harsh seasons. Lionesses do the bulk of hunting by laying a sort of organized trap for the hunted. Each lioness performs a specific role in this form of group hunting. Usually the weak and old are chosen and isolated from the herds. Then one or two lionesses expose themselves by breaking cover and charging at prey. The panicked animals take off and usually end up in jaws of a waiting lioness in their flight. A suffocating hold is placed by biting at the neck of smaller prey or covering the mouth and nose of larger prey. In contrast with previous beliefs, it is now estimated that male lions take part in up to fifty to sixty percent of all hunts, being of particular use in taking down larger prey like buffalo. Other animals taken are of a vast variety depending upon the type and abundance of prey animals in a particular territory. These include eland, gemsbok, hartebeest, impala, kudu, warthog, wildebeest and zebra. At times even giraffes and the young of rhinos, hippos and elephants are killed. Opportunistic predators, lions will hunt and eat anything in times of need including carrion. Some lions in Botswana have been filmed killing elephants after a period of severe drought. Calves were regularly taken and occasionally so were adults under cover of darkness.

African Lions are at the top of food chain in African Savannah and do not refrain from wiping out competition if opportunity presents. Conflict with spotted hyenas are common who are often able to intimidate lionesses and cubs owing to their greater numbers, but suffer heavily when they come in contact with males. Adult male lions have been witnessed displaying rather savage behavior towards hyenas on occasions, actively chasing and killing off adult and the young of hyenas. At times lions have been recorded scavenging off hyena kills. Interspecies conflict with other big cats also occurs and African Lions often kill leopards and cheetahs and their young, possibly to ward off competition.

A number of subspecies of lions are recognized, based upon their area of distribution in Africa.

Panthera Leo Azandica (North East Congo lion) - North-eastern Congo

Panthera Leo Bleyenberghi (Southwest African or Katanga lion) - South-western Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Angola, Katanga (Zaire), Zambia and Zimbabwe

Panthera Leo Krugeri (Southeast African or Transvaal lion) - Transvaal region of South eastern Africa, including Kruger National Park

Panthera Leo Nubica (East African or Massai lion) - East Africa from Ethiopia and Kenya to Tanzania and Mozambique

Panthera Leo Senegalensis (West African lion) - Western Africa from Senegal to Nigeria

Territorial cats, African Lions live in pride areas of up to tens of square miles depending upon the concentration of lions and prey in a particular region. Males regularly patrol the territory, marking it with scent from their paws and urine. At dusk and dawn they roar to establish their presence and warn off intruders. The roar is loudest among cats and can be heard up to a distance of five miles. A pride consists of one to four males and up to a dozen or more of females and young cubs. Females are generally related to each other and usually stay in a pride for the duration of their life whereas young males are kicked off by adults when they are between two to three years old. These young males then pursue a nomadic lifestyle, forming coalitions with other solitary males and hunting and surviving on their own. When they are four to five years old they are capable of taking over a pride of their own. Next they move into the domain of resident males of an established pride and attempt to take over the territory and lionesses. This often results in a bloody and at times fatal battle. If the resident males lose out, they slink away and the nomads are quick to kill any cubs sired by previous males. This brings the females into estrus. The new males also kill or drive away any young males. The take over is often brutal and sometimes takes months. After the lionesses have finally settled down, the new males have only a period of two to three years on average to produce cubs of their own that can successfully reach adulthood and propagate their genetic line before they are ousted as well. Females come into estrus year round and produce a litter of two to three cubs after a pregnancy lasting between three to four months. The young learn hunting by one year and are fully independent by two years of age. Maturity is reached by four years in females and five years in case of males. Lifespan is between twelve to fifteen years in the wild and around twenty five years in captivity.

The author is a blogger about cats and an expert on African Lion.

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Andean Mountain Cat

2008-05-26T15:00:00.018-07:00

Also known as Andean Highland Cat or simply the Andean Cat, the Andean Mountain Cat lives in the arid deserts of the high Andes. Classified as Leopardus Jacobitus or Oreailurus Jacobita, the beautiful cat is often likened to the elusive Snow Leopard owing to similarities in the lifestyle of the two cats. The Andean Cat is nearly two feet long with an approximately one and a half foot tail and stands just over one foot tall at shoulders. Weight is in the range of ten to fifteen pounds.

In adaptation to its high altitude habitat, the cat's coat is long and thick with a base color ranging from gray to reddish brown. Irregular stripes, spots and markings are found on the body, in particular on limbs and the lighter under surface. Tail is long and thick, possibly aiding the cat in its quick movements on rocky cliffs and uncertain terrains. It is banded with dark rings and is light colored at the tip.

Believed to be an opportunistic predator, the Andean Mountain Cat is thought to prey on small animals including chinchillas, viscachas, insects, lizards and birds. Little is known about the social structure and behavior and reproductive profile owing to the extreme rarity of scientific observations of this elusive feline, due to its remote geographical distribution.

The Andean Cat is considered to exist in scattered territories across high altitudes of Andes in dry, rocky and harsh areas in four countries: Argentina, Bolivia, Chile and Peru. It has low population densities and lives a solitary life in areas often separated by human settlements. No subspecies are recognized.

Owing to our lack of research data and information, the exact numbers in the wild and conservation status of this beautiful cat are unknown. No specimens exist in captivity.

The author is a blogger about cats and an expert on Andean Mountain Cat

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Dogs and Allergic Conjunctivitis

2008-05-26T15:00:00.017-07:00

Copyright (c) 2008 The Naturally Healthy Pet.com

Allergic conjunctivitis, as well as sneezing and other evidence of allergy, is increasingly common in dogs. This may be related to where their environment, or to changes in their immunity due to, for example, diet and exercise.

Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the conjunctiva, a layer of skin over the inner surface of the lids. Allergy occurs when the immune system over-reacts to a stimulus, mistakenly thinking it is an infection or cancer that it needs to fight off.

A dog with allergic conjunctivitis is likely to have redness, swelling and watering of one or both (usually both) eyes. There may be thickening of the conjunctiva, and if the dog is irritated to the extent that it scratches the eyes, there may be corneal abrasions and other eye damage.

No treatment ("watchful waiting") is a valid option if symptoms are very mild. Allergen avoidance is important, as far as it is possible. Bathing the eyes with a cool flannel may relieve some soreness and itching.

More severe allergic conjunctivitis will be treated with anti-inflammatory or antihistamine eye drops and ointments, and if any secondary bacterial infection is suspected, an antibiotic drop may be added. In severe cases a steroid drop will be used if treatment is otherwise unsuccessful.

Allergen testing may be needed to find the cause of the allergy.

Most holistic therapists and vets will look to the diet for a source of allergy. It is worth trying a hypo-allergenic diet. In addition, allergens are often airbourne, so it is worth looking at environmental dust and pollution. Antioxidant supplements can help boost the immunity and reduce allergy.

Herbal Remedies: Burdock, Rosemary and Meadowsweet can all help with allergic conjunctivitis. Burdock (Arctium lappa) helps with detoxification; Meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria) is antiseptic and anti-inflammatory, and Rosemary (Rosemarinus officinalis) is another antiseptic and disinfectant. The eyes can be bathed in a decoction of fennel seed (Foeniculum vulgare), Eyebright (Euphrasia officinallis) or elder flower (Sambucus nigra) to reduce soreness and inflammation.

Homeopathy: Apis mel can be used to rinse sore eyelids; arsen alb is used for more watery eyes.

Relaxation therapy, spiritual healing and general stress reducing measures will aid recovery from allergic conjunctivitis, as well as other ill-health. Healing work on the Brow chakra will particularly benefit the eyes.

Blue lace agate is useful for eye problems when using a crystal healing.

Flower Remedies: Bach remedies will help an underlying emotional problem which may be contributing to reduced immunity and allergy.

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Dr Alison Grimston, a holistic doctor and animal healer, has a natural animal therapy website informing the public about animal therapies while connecting and informing animal therapists. http://www.TheNaturallyHealthyPet.com

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The Pallas Cat

2008-05-26T15:00:00.016-07:00

Resembling the Lynx in facial appearance, Pallas Cat is believed by some to be the oldest living specie of cats, it's evolution dating as far back as ten million years.

Fur is long, thick and grayish in color, often varying with season. Head is short and broad and face is flattened. Ears are small and widely set. Body appears to be heavy and supported on stocky limbs. Eyes are large and pupils circular unlike those of other small cats. It's lustrous coat and physical appearance led to the initial hypothesis that the Pallas Cat was the ancestor of Persian Cats, a theory now known to be incorrect. Hair are white tipped, giving the cat a frosted snowy appearance. Several dark spots and stripes exist on head and body.

A solitary and crepuscular hunter, Pallas Cat takes small animals usually including rodents, insects and birds. It uses either the stalk and ambush approach characteristic of most felines or directly attacks dens and burrows of small animals where it either waits outside them for the prey to appear or attempts to paw them out. It is often seen resting inside burrows of other animals as well.

Suited for a cold habitat Pallas Cat, Otocolobus Manul, resides in the snowy mountains and harsh plains of Central Asia. It inhabits a number of countries in that region and is divided into the following subspecies based on its geographical distribution.

Otocolobus Manul Manul - China and Mongolia

Otocolobus Manul Nigripecta - Kashmir, Nepal, Tibet

Otocolobus Manul Ferrugnea - Caspian Sea to Pakistan

Pallas Cat, also known as Manul, comes into estrus early in the year and gives birth to a big litter of up to six kittens after a pregnancy lasting around ten weeks. Maturity is reached at one year of age. Lifespan of up to twelve years has been recorded in captivity. Hunted in the past for its lustrous cat, Pallas Cat is now protected as a specie in most countries.

The author is a blogger about cats and an expert on Pallas Cat

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Boxer Dog: First Aid Treatment

2008-05-26T15:00:00.015-07:00

The decision to own a Boxer dog, or any other dog breed, is not something to be taken lightly. There are lots of factors to consider. The plan of having a dog must be agreeable to other members of the family. Above all, you must have the capabilities of providing the needs of a Boxer dog and mind you, they need quite much. The list of supplies and dog stuff goes on and on - bed, food/water bowls, leash, collars, toys and treats to name a few. In addition to that, love, time and care are other precious things you need to give your dog. You have to prepare yourself for whatever consequences that will come along the way, especially for emergency. No one can tell how, where and when exactly emergency will happen so it is better to arm yourself before it occurs.

External Bleeding

If the bleeding doesn't stop within five minutes, do the following procedure:

With a thick gauze pad, clean cloth or even your hand, apply direct pressure to the wound. Apply more bandages if the blood seeps through it. If the bleeding is severe, apply a tourniquet between the wound and the heart. Loosen tourniquet for 20 seconds every 15-20 minutes because this procedure carries great danger. This should only be used to save life as this may result to amputation or disability of the limb if not applied

properly.

Bloat

Bloat is common among Boxers as well as other medium-sized and large breeds. This condition is extremely fatal and may kill your dog within hours, even minutes of onset. Bloat is a true emergency thus you must seek your vet's attention immediately.

Choking

Choking is characterized with severe distress, drooling, paw at the mouth and breathing difficulties. Try to open your pet's mouth to inspect for food, toys or other objects caught in the back of the throat. You can get the object caught deep in the throat with the use of long nosed pliers or forceps. Gentle chest compression can also be applied to force air from the lungs to dislodge an object. Seek your veterinarian immediately.

Abrasions and Cuts

To treat minor cuts and abrasions, clean your hands first and clip the fur away from the wound to prevent contamination. Wash the wound with warm water and apply an antibiotic cream three to four times daily. Never allow the pet to lick the medication off. If the wound is larger than an inch or two in an area, or if the cut is deep, seek veterinary attention immediately. Remember not to scrub healing cut and never apply hydrogen peroxide because this chemical can harm newly produced healing tissues.

Richard Cussons writes articles about Boxer dog. Visit boxersavvy.com and learn more about Boxer dog training.

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Malayan Tiger

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Named Panthera Tigris Jacksoni after Peter Jackson, the former head of cat specialist group of IUCN who spent forty years in tiger conservation efforts, Malayan Tiger is now alternatively called Panthera Tigris Malayensis by some after Malaysian protests that the name should reflect the area of the big cat's origin.

Similar in physical appearance to the Indochinese Tiger, the Malayan Tiger is closer to the Sumatran Tiger in size. Males weight around two hundred and sixty pounds and females are on average two hundred and twenty pounds in weight. Average body length is seven and a half and six and a half feet respectively for males and females. Coat is dark red to orange in coloration, marked by thin black stripes. Belly, cheek and area around eyes is white. Whiskers are somewhat long and so is the tail. Overall body is muscular.

Not much is understood about this big cat except that it resides mainly in tropical forests and grasslands of Malaysia and Thailand. It is known to prey on barking deer, sambar and wild boar as well as sun bear in certain parts of its range. The cat is thinly distributed in their habitat owing to low prey density. Little is known about its behavior patterns and reproductive profile.

There are between five hundred to one thousand Malayan Tigers left in the wild. Threats include habitat fragmentation and shrinkage, poaching, conflicts with humans and decline of prey species. Even as Malaysia enforces a rigid control on poaching that has cut down the loss of tigers to an extent, many of the Malayan Tigers live outside the designated forest reserves, often bringing them into conflict with farmers.

The author is a blogger about cats and an expert on Malayan Tiger.

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Bornean Bay Cat

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Residing solely on the island of Borneo, Bay Cat is also known as Bornean Bay Cat, Bornean Red Cat or Bornean Cat. So reclusive is this cat that it was only in the last decade that the first live specimen was successfully photographed. Bearing close genetic resemblance to the Asian Golden Cat, it is in fact smaller in size - weighing up to ten pounds and having a body length of just under three feet, including tail.

Pardofelis Badia, the Bay Cat is described to occur in two different color variants - reddish brown and bluish gray. Light colored spots exist on undersides and limbs. Face and tail is marked with white stripes, the latter ending in a white tip. Ears are rounded and dark colored, as is the head, marked often by an 'M-shaped' marking. The cat's teeth are unique and the overall appearance bears a striking resemblance with the Jaguarundi.

Very little is known about the behavior, diet and activity patterns of this reclusive feline. It is believed to feed on small animals and monkeys as well as birds and carrion. The reproductive profile of the Bay Cat is also poorly understood.

The Bay Cat is so named since nearly all its sightings have taken place in bay areas, around water bodies, mangroves and swamps - this may be due to the preference of such a habitat for its abode by the cat or simply researcher bias of the area of study. It does however reside solely in the thick rainforests of Borneo.

The author is a blogger about cats and an expert on Bay Cat

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Cat Health and Cat Care of Cat Skin and Cat Organs

2008-05-26T15:00:00.012-07:00

Cats have a dry skin just like humans. The fur on their body protects them from exposure to elements such as dirt. For pet cats that have dry skin, it is advisable to use moisturizing or soap-free products. Cats normally develop skin problems such as Seborrhea. The best way to treat this disorder is to use medicated shampoo.

Sensory Organs:

Cats have the great qualities. They are better than human beings in seeing things and hearing sounds around them. They smell and feel the nature very well. Due to these abilities, cats were often mistaken to possess black magic. The current era does not suspect cats of having an influence over the supernatural powers. It is necessary to know cats' sense, which may help in understanding their behavior much better.

1. Sight: Cats have a good night vision. Where there is no enough light, cats see much better than humans. However, they are not able see in complete darkness. This ability comes at the cost of daytime vision, which is beneficial for nocturnal predators. Actually, cats fail to see distant objects at daytime. People know little about the colors that cats see visibly. Science says that, they can identify some of the colors than humans do. With their eyes, cats detect faster movement of things in their surroundings. On the other hand, it is hard for them to pay attention on slow moving objects.

2. Sound: Cats have very sharp ears. Even when fast asleep, cats trace the noisy sounds of small rodents. Their ability to hear sounds is three times as high as that of human beings. Cats move their large ears sideways to capture the sound more accurately. For this, they first locate the place from where the sound actually comes. While chasing the target, they sometimes pause to listen and determine the location of their prey.

3. Smell: Cats largely depend on their sense of smell. They always sniff their food before eating. Smelling things is the essential part of feline communication. There is a mechanism at the top of their mouth, which makes possible for them to analyze smell. With the help of this mechanism, cats twist their lips, open their mouth, and express disgust over certain things.

4. Taste: Cats use this sense to decide the foods good for them. They are truly carnivores. As such, their sense of taste best lies in recognizing fat and protein. Unlike dogs, cats prefer to stay away from sweets. In addition, cats do not respond well to the taste of salt. Experts suggest the reason behind this as, cats get enough salt from the meat food.

5. Touch: Cats have touch receptors all over their body. These receptors are nerve cells that transfer sensations of pain, pressure and temperature from any point to the brain. The nerve cells are concentrated mainly on their front paws and face. The hair, covering body of cats, help them to stay alert even on the slightest touch of air passing by.

Go to Cat and Kitten Zone to get your free ebook about Cats and Kittens at Cats. Cat and Kitten Zone also has information on Kittens, Cat Supplies and a Cat and Kitten Forum where you can connect with others who love cats and kittens. You can Find Cat and Kitten Zone at www.catandkittenzone.com.

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Black-footed Cat

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Black-Footed Cat, Felis Nigripes, is one of the tiniest wild cat species in the world. Despite its small size, the cat is quite powerful and resilient, well known in local folklore for its bravery.

Fur is tawny to reddish in color and marked by dark spots that form stripes on limbs. The undersides of the feet are black, thus the name, and so is the tip of tail. Head is broad and ears rounded, the former often appearing large in contrast to the small body size. In aggressive and hunting profile, the ears are often flattened as the cat goes after its prey with practically no cover over the vast plains of its natural habitat.

Usually insects, small animals including rodents and birds are taken by this solitary and nocturnal feline. Opportunistic predators, they often attack birds and their young in the nest, consuming eggs. Larger prey species including adult Cape Hares and even the young of sheep are preyed upon by this courageous feline as it takes down bigger animals by hanging to their neck and biting through the victim's jugular vein. Successful hunters, Black-footed cats usually employ the stalk and ambush method and often consume large feeds during a hunting session, up to one fifth of their own body weight. Like some big cats, they have a habit of caching and returning to their prey later on. The lack of water in their habitat means that the cats quench their thirst through the moisture obtained from their kills. At times grass is also eaten, possibly to regulate the digestive system.

Expert at climbing and digging, the Black-footed cats usually spend their day time residing in burrows and termite mounds, giving rise to their name 'the Ant-hill Tiger'. At night the felines move over large distances, eliciting loud meows to communicate with each other - the sounds often compared to a tiger's roar. As part of adaptation for survival on the unforgiving African plains the Black-footed Cat, also known as the 'little spotted cat', has a limited estrus cycle and gestation period - the female only receptive for a few hours over a day and a half period, and giving birth to a small litter of one to two kittens after a pregnancy lasting just over two months, meaning that the tiny cat is vulnerable for a very short period of time from predators like jackals and big night owls. Young grow quickly but gain independence at a longish age of nearly two years. Lifespan of over ten years is recorded in captivity.

Like its northern cousin the Sand Cat, the Black-footed Cat resides in dry areas and plains, only in the southern African nations of Botswana, Namibia and South Africa, even though sightings have been reported in Mozambique and Zimbabwe. Two subspecies are described over its geographical range:

Felis Nigripes Nigripes - northern South Africa and Namibia

Felis Nigripes Thomasi - southern South Africa and Botswana

Experts argue over the conservation status of the Black-footed Cat. It's exact numbers in the wild are not certain.

The author is a blogger about cats and an expert on Black-footed Cat

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The Benefits Of Owning A Boxer Dog

2008-05-26T15:00:00.010-07:00

The Boxer dog has long been recognized as versatile breed. This breed have been used as messenger dogs, pack carriers and attack and guard dogs in times of war. The great love and faithfulness to his master is notable and will definitely protect and attack to what he perceive as threat to his family. This is just one of the various benefits one can enjoy from owning a Boxer dog.

What some people failed to realize is the fact that, dogs are more than just guard or protector of the family. Do you know that one can live longer and better quality life through the help of dogs? Yes dogs are good companion and emotional therapist! Emotional stress and loneliness are few of the factors that trigger health problems. They increase the susceptibility of a person to major diseases that could even lead to death. But a simple gesture of affection such as a wag of the tail or a welcome bark can vanish almost all the stress accumulated from a busy day. In fact, experts believe that stroking and petting your dog lowers the heart rate and blood pressure almost immediately. Your dog needs exercise and so do you. By taking your dog for daily walks in the park, both of you benefit from this activity. Fresh air, tranquility and time away from clutter are all yours. And did I say walking is a great form of exercise?

Despite all these benefits, some parents still doubt the safety of children when Fido is around. The fear of children bitten or attacked by the family dog is one of the reasons why dogs end up in rescue shelters or left astray. But of course attacks and biting will never happen if you are responsible enough to train your dog as well as the children to prevent any unwanted situations to occur. Actually, studies show that a child who own a pet, more particularly a dog, have highly developed immune system. Playing and hugging a dog helps children slowly build and strengthen their disease fighting abilities. Not just that! A child that was given the task to take charge of a pet learn to become responsible realizing what his pet needs and what must he do to provide these needs. Naturally you cannot expect a child to give Rover a bath or brush Sweety's teeth. Start with letting your child help choose the toys, beds and other stuff. Then gradually increase the responsibility as he grows older.

Words are not always enough to tell others how wonderful these creatures are. Why not try to get one and experience the joys yourself?

Richard Cussons is a writer with knowledge on Boxer dog and other breeds of dog. Discover more Boxer dog training tips at boxersavvy.com.

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Chinese Mountain Cat

2008-05-26T15:00:00.009-07:00

Also known as Chinese Desert Cat, Chinese Mountain Cat is considered to be closely related to the Jungle Cat and the Wild Cat, some experts even claiming that it is a subspecies of the latter. Weighing around fifteen pounds, the cat is nearly four feet long, including tail, and stands at just under a foot at shoulders.

Bearing some physical resemblance to the European Wild Cat, the Chinese Mountain Cat has a yellowish gray coat, interspersed with black hair and few markings. Underparts are often of an orange coloration. Brownish lines run across cheeks. Hind feet are often brown as well. Tail is thick and ringed with black, along with a black tip. Ears are set widely apart on the flat skull and highlighted by prominent ear tufts. Feet are covered with hair on the underside like the Sand Cat and Black-footed Cat, possibly to aid the feline to move about on hot and cold surfaces in summer and winter in its tough habitat.

Little is understood about the lifestyle of the Chinese Mountain Cat, also known as the pale desert cat; pale cat and grass cat, though it is believed to inhabit thinly wooded jungles and occasionally deserts at high altitudes in parts of Western China. A nocturnal feline, it is known to prey upon pikas, birds and rodents.

There are reports of the cat's sightings in Mongolia and some authorities classify the Chinese Mountain Cat into three subspecies based upon regional differences:

Felis Bieti Bieti - Sichuan and Kansu provinces China

Felis Bieti Vellerosa - Shensi province China

Felis Bieti Chutuchta - Mongolia

The Chinese Desert Cats are said to have a mating season in the beginning of the year, typically in February. A medium sized litter of two to four babies is born on average in May, the young gaining independence by eight months of age.

The author is a blogger about cats and an expert on Chinese Mountain Cat

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Exercise With A Boxer Dog

2008-05-26T15:00:00.008-07:00

A lot of people wants to own a Boxer dog. Despite the fact that dog ownership means great responsibility, that doesn't hinder thousands of dog lovers around the world from having a pet dog, especially a Boxer dog. What is in this breed that a lot of people are after? By simply looking at a Boxer dog, one will think that this breed is brave and strong and modest, which is actually true. By having one lurking around you, you can somehow feel that you are protected. This is just one of the benefits of having Boxer dogs.

Another benefit that some people may not seem to notice is the dog's contribution to his master's good health. Dogs need exercise right? By taking your dog for a walk, you are not just giving him his required dose of exercise, you are doing yourself a favor to stay healthy as well. The activity helps you and your dog to control weight at the same time maintain a healthy heart, lungs and muscle tissue. Plus, you will be given the opportunity to inhale fresh air or avoid the traffic rush. The result - a healthy dog and a healthy you!

If exercise is new to you and your dog, go slow at first. Consider your dog's age and size. Remember that Boxer dogs are athletic dogs and they need proper exercise and conditioning. Start with short periods of activity at slow speeds then gradually increase the time, speed and distance. A daily 20-minute walk and some free-run in a secure place would be enough. Teach him to fetch ball or flying discs if he has more energy than you do.

Be responsible when exercising your Boxer dogs. These dogs do not do well in extreme weather conditions. Too much heat as well as too much cold makes them uncomfortable so it is better to set aside outdoor exercise and activities during those times. Keep your dog's nails trimmed to prevent tears as it runs and you should always remember not to exercise your dog before and right after meals. Exercise or other strenuous activities with stomach my cause digestive upset and worst, killer bloat. Water should be given before and after exercise but only in small amounts. After exercise, check your dog's coat, ears, eyes and paws for burrs, ticks and other unwanted objects that he might have picked up along the way.

Bond with your dog at the same time stay healthy through exercise.

Richard Cussons writes articles about Boxer dog. Visit boxersavvy.com and learn more about Boxer dog training.

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Rusty Spotted Cat

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Prionailurus Rubiginosus, the Rusty Spotted Cat has a grayish coat with rusty red colored spots all over its body, coalescing to form stripes on head. Fur is soft and short. Under surface is white and often spotted as well. Face is marked by dark and white stripes that run across the inner aspect of eyes. Eyes appear large in contrast to the small rounded head. Ears are short and oval in shape. Legs are tiny and tail is relatively thick, possibly aiding the cat in moving along trees.

An arboreal and nocturnal feline, the Rusty Spotted Cat is known to prey upon small animals including rodents, frogs, reptiles, insects and small birds. The reclusive felid spends most of the day resting in dense cover and comes out at night to hunt. An opportunistic predator, it is known to take domestic poultry, bringing itself in conflict with the locals at times. The cat is very friendly and fun loving though, often being adopted as a pet by some.

A resident of India and Sri Lanka, the Rusty Spotted Cat is divided into two subspecies on the basis of this geographical distribution. The Sri Lankan subspecies is brighter in coloration and lives at high altitudes in comparison to the Indian variant that prefers to stay in plains.

Prionailurus Rubiginosus Rubiginosus - India

Prionailurus Rubiginosus Phillipsi - Sri Lanka

A solitary feline, the Rusty Spotted Cat comes into estrus in spring. Usually one kitten is born after a pregnancy lasting nearly ten weeks. The babies lack the coloration of adults. Longevity and age of maturation is unknown owing to insufficient scientific research into the lifestyle of this elusive cat.

The author is a blogger about cats and an expert on Rusty Spotted Cat

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The Wild Cat Kodkod

2008-05-26T15:00:00.006-07:00

Leopardus Guigna Kodkod is often spelled as Codcod and called alternatively Guiña, Hûina or Huiña. The rare feline bears a close resemblance to Geoffrey's Cat and Pampas Cat and is considered by some to be a subspecies of the former.

Coloring is in the range of yellow to gray-brown with dark spots and stripes often seen on trunk and limbs. Belly and underside is usually white though all black specimens are often recorded as well. Tail is short and ringed. Feet are large and head is short and wide in proportion to the cat's body size.

As with many of the small, elusive wild cats, detailed behavioral and hunting information is lacking about the Kodkod. It is known to be nocturnal though and a good tree climber. In daytime it is reputed to rest in trees and ground. Some reports suggest that it is not a solitary feline and may well have a social lifestyle like that of lions. Prey animals include small rodents, insects and birds. The larger male Kodkods have been known to take domestic poultry in areas where human settlements are next to the wild cat's domain.

The Kodkod resides in mountainous regions of Chile and Argentina in South America. It lives in dense rainforests, preferring to stay close to water bodies. Two subspecies are recognized, that differ in their geographical location and physical appearance:

Leopardus Guigna Guigna - Southern Chile and Argentina

Leopardus Guigna Tigrillo - Central Chile

Pregnancy lasts around two and a half months for Kodkod after which an average of two babies are born. Lifespan has been known to be up to eleven years.

Numbers in the wild are not well known though it is understood that the cat is quite rare and continually threatened by habitat destruction.

The author is a blogger about cats and an expert on Kodkod

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Siberian Tiger

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Residing in the Conifer and Broadleaf forests east of the Amur River, the Siberian Tigers are solitary cats that enjoy a relatively undisturbed ecosystem devoid in large parts of human activity. Occupying huge territories of up to four thousand square miles, these Amur Tigers are often on the move, covering large distances in search of prey in their isolated wilderness. One Siberian Tiger was once recorded to cover over six hundred miles in the space of three weeks in search of food. The great cat hunts a variety of animals including moose, roe deer, sika deer, musk deer and goral, though red deer and wild boar form the bulk of its diet.

Opportunistic predators, the tigers are known to take even rabbits, hares, pikas and fish (usually salmon) at times. The undisputed king of carnivora, the Siberian Tiger spares not even the Great Russian Brown Bear from its predatory activities. The cats pull out the bears while they are hibernating and attack and kill them. At other times, brown bear kills have been recorded in the open, displaying the superiority of the tiger over the bear as the apex predator on land. The Asiatic black bears are not given any respite by a hungry tiger either. The cunning cat is known to imitate black bear sounds to attract and hunt them.

Even resilient pack animals such as wolves have been nearly exterminated by the tigers. A stalk and ambush predator, the Amur Tiger despite its great power still only succeeds in ten to fifteen percent of hunting attempts. The cat prefers to creep up to ten to twenty five meters of the prey animal before rushing and pouncing upon it, moving at speeds of up to 80 km/hr in its charge. Smaller prey animals are killed by a bite on the nape of neck that breaks the vertebrae and severs the spinal cord. Larger game is brought down by a bite on front of the neck that crushes the windpipe and suffocates the prey. Needing around twenty pounds of meat daily to survive in the wild, the tiger can consume about sixty to hundred pounds in one setting. The kill is often cached, usually near a water body and the cat has been known to return to carcasses to complete its feed.

The Siberian Tiger inhabits the Boreal forests in Far Eastern Asia, residing largely in Russia but also reported in China and North Korea. Panthera Tigris Altaica, it is seen largely in the Amur-Ussuri region of Primorsky and Khabarovsky Krai. Its range has shrunk drastically in the past hundred years and is now a mere fraction of its past domain.

The tigers are known to mate at any time during the year. The receptive female advertises her presence by leaving urine and scratch markings on trees. She is in estrus typically for three to seven days during which the pair mates several times. Like all big cats, the courting individuals focus less on hunting during this time and are particularly hostile to any intruders. Up to six cubs are born after a pregnancy lasting between three to three and a half months, though three to four is the average litter size. Blind and helpless they are sheltered in a den by the ever watchful mother who seldom leaves them during the early weeks, going out only for hunting. The young open their eyes at two weeks and begin to venture outside at around three months. They are weaned off at around six months and begin to accompany their mother at her hunting trips at this age. Small prey is successfully taken down by the cubs at less than one year of age, and large prey at twice that age. They stay with their mother at up until three to five years of age after which they begin to venture and establish their territories and fend for themselves. Males generally move farther away from their realm, making them easier targets for poachers. As a result adult male tigers are outnumbered by females three to one on average. Lifespan is known to be up to twenty five years.

Amur Tigers were freely hunted in the early part of this century, bringing them to near extinction in most territories. In 1947 hunting was outlawed in the former Soviet Union. Still the tiger continued to suffer at the hands of poachers who made heavy profits by selling the body parts to Chinese traditional medicine makers, earning up to fifty thousand dollars with one tiger. The collapse of Soviet Union accompanied with the breakdown of law and order infrastructure had a particularly adverse impact on the tiger population whereby nearly sixty tigers were reputedly killed yearly by poachers in the few years following 1989. In 1992, The Siberian Tiger Project was founded. This marked the beginning of a turn around in the fate of tiger. In 1993, Chinese Government declared the use of tiger parts for medicinal purposes to be illegal.

In the following years, vigilant monitoring and study resulted in the stabilization of tiger numbers in the wild. Regular patrols were undertaken to deter the poachers and individual tigers were studied to better understand the subspecies and reduce its mortality in its natural habitat. Another successful step was launching of Operation Amba in Russia that continues to protect the Siberian Tigers through collaboration of law enforcement agencies and interaction with local people. Its mission is to neutralize tiger traders and attack and eliminate poaching rings. It has been largely successful in seizing many poaching materials and saving a number of tiger cubs. As a result of these tireless efforts of forest rangers and scientists, today the population of Siberian Tigers in the wild is believed to be around five hundred individuals and this is merely the number in Russia. In fact the Siberian Tiger is the only tiger subspecies whose population is believed to be on the increase. The impressive recovery of the Siberian Tiger is often used as a model plan to save other species.

The author is a blogger about cats and an expert on Siberian Tiger

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The Tiger Cat

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Also known as Oncilla, Tiger Cat is said to have a close genetic and physical resemblance with Ocelot and Margay. About two feet long with a one and a half foot tail, it is longer than the domestic cat, yet it weighs less - in the range of five to ten pounds.

Base color of the fur is tawny. There are many dark colored spots and blotches over its body and limbs. Underside of the body is light and generally lacks spots. Tail is ringed and tipped with black. Skull is small and narrow. Melanistic individuals are sometimes recorded, usually in dense forests where the dark coloration possibly aids in camouflage. Tiger Cats living at higher altitudes generally have greater body markings than the lowland felines of the specie.

Solitary and nocturnal, the Tiger Cat is a good climber and often hunts birds. Mainstay though is a terrestrial lifestyle unlike the arboreal dwelling of the Margay. Insects, rodents and reptiles are commonly hunted.

Dense forests of the South American countries are the habitat of the Little Spotted Cat, including Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Guyana, Paraguay, Uruguay and Venezuela. Following subspecies are described on the basis of their distribution:

Leopardus Tigrinus Tigrinus - Brazil, Guyana and Venezuela

Leopardus Tigrinus Guttulus - Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay and Argentina

Leopardus Tigrinus Pardinoides - Venezuela, Colombia and Ecuador

Leopardus Tigrinus Oncilla - Costa Rica

Gestational period is of two and a half months in case of Oncilla, after which two babies on average are born. Their development is slower in comparison to the domestic kittens. Life span is believed to be up to fifteen years.

The author is a blogger about cats and an expert on Tiger Cat

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African Golden Cat

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Profelis Aurata, the African Golden Cat is believed to be closely related to the Caracal and Serval, though it is often termed as the Leopard's Brother owing to the co-existence of the two cats in certain parts of their range. Body length is usually around two and a half feet with a longish one foot tail. Adults weigh between twenty to forty pounds and reach a shoulder height of around one and a half feet. Males are larger overall.

Coloration of the African Golden Cat varies across its range from reddish brown to silver gray. Melanistic variants have also been recorded. It is even suggested that the fur may change color in a single individual over time and external influences. Head and body are often spotted whereas the underside is usually white. Tail is lined at its origin and ends in a black or brown tip. Head and ears are small and rounded. Legs are longish with somewhat oversized paws.

Strong and secretive felines, the African Golden Cats are crepuscular in their activity profile. They often spend the day resting in tree branches. Hunting is primarily through the stalk and ambush method. Small animals including rodents, tree hydraxes and birds are usually taken, though reports of the cat preying on small antelopes, monkeys and hog have also emerged. In areas where human settlements are next to national parks, domestic livestock and poultry are also reported to be consumed by the cats.

Residing in parts of Central and West Africa, the cats seem to prefer tropical rainforests with dense undergrowth. Two subspecies are recognized, based upon the African Golden Cat's distribution:

Profelis Aurata Aurata - Uganda to Congo

Profelis Aurata Celidogaster - West Africa

Little is known about the exact behavior patterns of the African Golden Cat owing to its reclusive lifestyle and limited research on it. Still it is believed to be a largely solitary feline. Males are thought to take an active part in parenting though. Gestation period is around two and a half months after which one to three kittens are born. The young grow quickly and gain maturity at one and a half years of age.

Even though not much is understood about the numbers in the wild of the African Golden Cat, the cat is classified as vulnerable.

The author is a blogger about cats and an expert on African Golden Cat

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The Wild Cat Margay

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Leopardus Wiedii, Margay is often called Tree Ocelot owing to its unparalleled arboreal skills among cats. Weighing usually in the range of ten to fifteen pounds, it is up to four feet long, inclusive of tail.

Fur is yellowish in base coloration. There are various dark markings in the form of blotches over its body. Belly and under parts are lighter. Tails are long and ringed. Subspecies living at higher altitudes have greater spots and marks than the cats living in plains. An extraordinary morphological trait is the ankle joint that allows movement of 180° of its paws, enabling the Margay to descend head first from trees, hang from its branches with just one foot and move upside down beneath branches - giving the cat an almost ape-like ease of movement on trees.

Despite the predominantly arboreal lifestyle, Margay also hunts on ground taking a variety of animals including insects, squirrels, lizards, birds, eggs, tree frogs and small monkeys. It is often seen moving speedily among trees chasing monkeys. A nocturnal and solitary feline, alongside Clouded Leopard, Margay is believed to be the best tree climber among cats.

Seen in a number of South American countries, Margay, also known as the Long-tail Spotted Cat, is divided into a number of subspecies based upon its regional distribution:

Leopardus Wiedii Wiedii - Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay

Leopardus Wiedii Nicaraguae - Costa Rica, Honduras, Nicaragua

Leopardus Wiedii Pirrensis - Colombia, Ecuador, Panama, Peru

Leopardus Wiedii Amazonicus - Brazil, Colombia, Peru and Venezuela

Leopardus Wiedii Boliviae - Bolivia

Leopardus Wiedii Salvinius - Chiapas, El Salvador and Guatemala

Leopardus Wiedii Yucatanicus - Yucatán

Leopardus Wiedii Cooperi - Mexico

Leopardus Wiedii Glauculus - Mexico

Leopardus Wiedii Oaxacensis - Mexico

Even as some evidence suggests that the cats may be sociable in the wild, they are generally thought to be solitary. Generally one kitten is born after a pregnancy lasting around eighty days. Maturity is reached within the first year of life. Lifespan of up to twenty years has been recorded in captivity. Fur trade and loss of habitat have had serious toll on the numbers of Margay in the wild.

The author is a blogger about cats and an expert on Margay

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The Marbled Cat

2008-05-26T15:00:00.001-07:00

Marble Cat is another cat adept at an arboreal lifestyle. Weighing around ten pounds it is up to three and a half feet long, it's tail nearly comprising half of that. Pardofelis Marmorata, Marbled Cat is believed to be closely related to the Asian Golden Cat.

Elongated canines and fur pattern highlight the resemblance of the Marbled Cat with the Clouded Leopard. Tail is more bushy though and face resembles smaller felines. Fur is brownish yellow and covered with big blotches on body, spots on limbs and stripes on face and neck. The long tail, believed to assist in tree climbing, is spotted and tipped with black. Ears are small and rounded, forehead is wide and pupils appear to be large. It is believed that the cats hunt both on ground and trees, taking birds, insects, frogs, lizards and rodents as prey animals.

Few sightings of the Marbled Cat have occurred in the dense forests of its terrain. It is known to extend from Nepal and Assam in India down to Malaysia and Borneo in Southeast Asia. Two subspecies are recorded:

Pardofelis Marmorata Marmorata - Nepal

Pardofelis Marmorata Charltoni - Southeast Asia

A solitary and nocturnal feline, the Marbled Cat is known to have a gestational period of around eighty days following which two kittens on average are born. The fur pattern is less well defined in early age. Maturity is reached at around twenty one months. Though not many specimens exist in captivity, lifespan has been recorded to be up to twelve years.

The author is a blogger about cats and an expert on Marbled Cat

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Helpful Tips For Hiking With Your Dog

2008-05-26T15:00:00.000-07:00

Taking your dog on a hike with you can be an enjoyable experience, provided you have the right hiking gear to accommodate the both of you. Taking your best friend along shouldn’t bog you down with extra gear but you will need to consider where you are going and how long you plan to hike in order to ensure you have what you need for a safe trip.

Whether hiking for an afternoon or taking an overnight trek, you should make sure to stock your backpack with the following items to help Fido, Lassie or whom ever you take with you have as much fun as you do.

• Adequate water for both you and your dog. If you know that there will be water sources along the route, carry a water bottle with you that you can refill if needed. If you are unsure about water availability, pack 1-2 quarts of water for your dog for a day hike plus enough for yourself. Collapsible dog bowls are good for dogs that may not drink from a stream or from a water bottle.

• A leash. Most trail ways require that your dog be on a leash or harness while hiking. A leash will also help keep order should there be a lot of dogs on the trail with you.

• First aid kit items. Most pet injuries while hiking occur on the pads of their feet. The pads can easily be cut on sticks, stones and roots in the ground. You should stop hiking intermittently to check your dogs paw pads for cuts or blisters. Have the appropriate bandages and disinfectants with you in case this happens.

• Proper ID tags for your pet. The dog tags should include information on your pet’s vaccination as well as your home address and phone number. Make sure the rabies tag that you received from your veterinarian is attached to your dog’s collar.

• Clean-Up Items. Zip-lock bags are great for hiking trips to reduce the odor of the feces while on your hike. Be sure to pick up all your dog’s feces while hiking using paper towels or your bag and dispose of it in a garbage container. Also carry a towel to clean off your dog should he or she get into dirt or water. • Snacks or Treats. Your dog will get tired just as you will. Make sure to pack a few treats to keep him energized until you get back home. However, you don’t want to over-feed your dog while hiking or they may get sick. Treats can also be helpful in getting your dog’s attention should they run off unexpectedly.

Above all, make sure your dog is up to the challenge of an afternoon hike. Make sure they are healthy and well-nourished before setting out on the hike. Older dogs should be treated to a trail way with a level terrain and with little to no incline. Small dogs should be taken on well groomed trails that won’t have a lot of low hanging brush or leaves that may cause eye or skin irritation.

Pay attention to the signs your dog may give while on a hike that there is something wrong. If they avoid the sunshine or lay underneath leaves they may be dehydrated and need to stop for a long drink of water. If their stride becomes labored or if they favor one paw over another, they may have gotten a sliver or cut on their pad. Your dog will tell you what they need while outdoors so long as you listen.

~Ben Anton, 2008

Ben Anton lives in Portland, OR and writes for Discount Lights and Knives.

Get what you need for your next hiking trip, including Coast LED flashlights and lanterns on the DLK website for compact LED lights for camping, hunting and hiking.

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Some Terrier Dogs That You Would Find Interesting

2008-05-25T15:00:00.008-07:00

The personality of a lively child put into dog- this might be a good way of describing the general personality of terriers. But as it appears, that still would not justify their temperaments. These dogs came from the British Isles where they were first oriented to hunting fox, rat, otter and the likes over and under the ground. And as its name suggests, "terrier" came from the word "terra" which means, "earth".

While terriers may be identified through their prominent physical characteristics, they are still divided into various breeds that separate one kind from another.

The following are the subgroups of the terrier breed:

Show Terriers- These are basically bred as small dogs and are used for show rings.

Bull and Terrier Types- these came from breeding between bull dogs and terriers. Only in the last quarter of 1800's did the breeders separate a number of bull dogs from terrier types for distinction.

Hunting and Working Terriers- The breed that was primarily bred for hunting.

Toy Terriers- These are the smaller versions of terriers, which are basically categorized into the companion breed.

To help you understand the various natures of terrier dogs, we have prepared some dog profiles here, please read on.

Airedale Terrier- This is known to be the largest dog in the Terrier breed. Standing an average of 23 inches from the shoulder, this dog shows off both beauty and elegance that make them fit for both dog obedience trials and show rings.

A cross-breed between Otterhound and Black and Tan Terrier, Airedale possess good skill in scent and superb swimming prowess.

Australian Terrier- Probably one of the dog types that have gotten to so many out-crossings with other dog breeds. A cross breed between the forerunner of Dandie Dinmont and rough coated terrier is said to have been migrated into England. The offspring of which was taken to Australia. With the scarcity of dog breeds in this land, many dogs had been crossbred into it which later resulted to a small type having the characteristics of terriers while being a good watchdog and ratter. It stands 10 to 11 inches with a life expectancy of 12 to 14 years.

Border Terrier- A True-blue working terrier, this dog is marked by its medium built while proving to work far better than what its appearance may give. Border Terriers are agile and alert while having the capacity to fit into narrow gaps especially during hunting.

Aside from its being affectionate and good adaptation to training, Border terriers can also make good family pets.

Bull Terrier- Originally bred for dog fighting and bull baiting, this dog is known to have been well-accustomed to courage and good resistance to pain. However, when the bloody dog fights were banned in England during the 1800's, most breeders turned to breeding milder dogs.

Bull Terriers came from these fighting dogs combined with Dalmatian and English Terrier to produce all-white specie. This new breed though is very much reserved from starting fights which gave them the nickname "White Cavalier".

There are of course a variety of other terrier species. Initially, you might find them interesting enough to catch your attention but a closer look would lead you to further knowing them. Who knows, you might find your ideal type of dog in this breed.

Want to find out about how to stop dog barking and tips on reading the dog body language? Get tips from The Dog Trainer.

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Differences between Non-Hypoallergenic Dogs and Hypoallergenic Dogs

2008-05-25T15:00:00.007-07:00

Even though the differences between non-hypoallergenic dogs and hypoallergenic dogs may not be huge, they are enough to reduce the amount of allergy attacks that people have when they are around certain breeds of dog. For those who want to own a dog, not being able to be in the same room with one for long periods of time, can be frustrating. Buying a hypoallergenic dog may be the only way they can have a dog in their home. While they may still experience allergy attacks, these attacks will be less frequent.

Non-hypoallergenic dogs tend to shed a lot. Their fur can be loose and dense, which means that it may contain a lot of dander as well. Dander is a collection of skin cells, dust, and other particles found in the air. As the dog sheds, these particles float around in the air and cause people to have allergy attacks. These dogs may also have an undercoat, which is a thick coat that protects them from harsh temperatures. This undercoat is what causes the dog to shed frequently. It can also trap dander and other allergens.

Some non-hypoallergenic dog breeds may also salivate more often than other breeds, which can also cause a person's allergies to increase. Saliva contains bacteria that people are oftentimes allergic to. While these dogs cannot control the amount of saliva they expel, people who are allergic to dogs have a difficult time when these dogs are present. People with dog allergies may also be allergic to dog urine as it too can contain certain kinds of bacteria.

Hypoallergenic dogs have shorter coats. Some breeds do not have an undercoat. While this makes them unprepared for cold weather, they are perfect for those who have allergies. The hair on these dogs is more like human hair, which means it will not shed as frequently as non-hypoallergenic dogs. The hair will need to be trimmed every few weeks in order to prevent it from growing too long. Some hypoallergenic breeds do not have hair at all. They are considered hairless even if they have some hair on their paws and head.

Hypoallergenic dogs do not salivate as much as other breeds. This helps those who are allergic. This means that when the dog cleans itself, it will not leave as much bacteria behind. Urine from hypoallergenic dogs does not affect as many people either.

When looking for a hypoallergenic dog, you should research the following breeds to see if you are interested in any of them: Maltese, Terriers, Schnauzer, Bishon Frise, Portuguese Water Dog, Greyhounds, and Irish Water Spaniel. There are other breeds, but these are some of the more popular ones that people want to buy. This also means that you will have fewer problems finding a breeder in your area.

Learn as much as you can about grooming, brushing, and caring for your hypoallergenic dog. Most breeds are very friendly and will live to be at least twelve years of age. These dogs enjoy companionship and exercise.

To read about dog crate training tips and choosing the best collar for dogs, visit The Dog Trainer.

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Training Your Silky Dog: A Terrier Anti-Terror Basics

2008-05-25T15:00:00.006-07:00

It is essential to have a dog that knows how to follow the right rules and how to live around your house. To achieve this, dog training must be considered.

Most people think that training a dog is hard and expensive. Moreover, dog training requires a lot of patience and creativity for your dog. We have to remember that dogs may be intelligent but they can not be as intelligent as us. The article provides some of the basic things dog owners need to know so they can do the training themselves. However, to maximize the full potential of your dog, a dog trainer should be hired instead.

What are the differences between a submissive dog and a dominant dog?

A submissive dog normally:

• avoids eye contact.

• rolls on its back.

• crouch down, ears back and tail lowered.

• is comfortable on its back in your arms.

On the other hand, a dominant dog:

• maintains eye contact.

• is unwilling to move from his place on the couch.

• dislikes grooming and petting.

• is possessive of dishes and toys.

Training your silky terriers requires kindness and consistency. Silkys respond actively to praises and to rewards. In addition, they become harsh and unresponsive towards punishments and animosity, respectively.

Trainings with obedience classes can be intensely beneficial in petting your silky terriers. In many dog training schools, classes for puppies are available. Young dogs are taught to get accustomed with other dogs and people using limited trainings. However, there are areas that do not conduct formal obedience training unless the dog is at least half a year old. Always remember that a dog is never too old to benefit from training when a good trainer is available, or if the owner is fully committed to the task.

Here are the recommended ways of training silky terriers:

1. Reiteration or Repetition

Reiteration is the name of the dog training game. In here, dogs are asked to do a task over and over again to achieve mastery. Dog tricks are best learned when reiterated and reinforced through rewards.

2. Persistence

Patience is a virtue that requires you to tolerate hardships. Persistence is trying to be patient for a longer time until a goal is achieved. Apparently, dog training requires a lot of persistence from the owner or from the trainer Physical and psychological aspects of the owner and/or the trainer must be sound.

3. Commendation and Amendation Simply put, if a dog does the right thing, it should be said aloud. Otherwise, the dog should hear, "No, that's not it!" when the trick is not complete or appropriate for the command given. These words reinforce correct responses and diminish the unwanted ones.

4. Rewarding

Bits of cheese would really be good treats for dogs who responded correctly to a given command. Other food can be bought at pet sores. However, if you are able to get the respect of your pet, commands will be executed even if there are no longer involved treats. Likewise, these things reinforce warranted responses.

If your lifestyle permits being in charge of training your own pet, you can do the training as long as you have gathered enough patience and commitment by:

1. spending time grooming your dog. 2. having regular training times on the leash. 3. stroking its belly and toes and rolling it on its back 4. hand feeding some food to ensure that the pet is taking treats gently and slowly.

In asserting dominance, always practice consistency and firmness. Afterwards, you can be a master and a dear friend to your own pet.

Visit The Dog Trainer to learn about how to stop dog chewing problems and how to choose a dog obedience school.

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The Dog of the Highlands: West Highland White Terrier

2008-05-25T15:00:00.005-07:00

At around 1700s, the Isle of Skye and other highlands in Scotland were already producing lots of small terriers. Scottish breeds were separated into two: the Skye terriers and the Dandie Dinmont terriers.

The Dandie Dinmonts were categorized as a separate breed. The Skyes included the Scotties, the Cairns and the West highland white terriers or the Westies.

It was also noted that these terriers were the hybrids among the crossed Cairns, Scottish, and Dandies terriers. One could assume that the hybrid would really be loyal and its hunting instincts could not be belittled. In fact, many royalties in Scotland owned terriers that were very similar to the Westies of today.

Another remarkable story is about a Westie that stopped a mother from constantly yelling at her daughter. Every time the mother would yell at her teenage daughter, the Westie would attack the mother. The aggression of the dog got worse over the years that resulted in the mother's complete inability to scold her teenager.

It turned out that the girl was actually rewarding the dog for his protection by calming and soothing him down after every "threat" from her mother. Many would perceive that the daughter was able to help her mother to change her ways when in fact she was helping herself by rewarding the dog for its behavior.

The following are some of the basic facts breeders would really love to know about Westies:

Category: Terrier Living Environment: indoors (highly recommended); outdoors (fenced yard)

Coat: about two-inch coarse and wiry outer coat and soft, dense, and furry undercoat Color: white

Height: between 10 and 12 inches

Weight: between 13 and 22 pounds

Temperament:

Naturally,

• they like to bark and dig

• they are not as willful like most terriers

• they love companionship

When properly trained

• they can become fairly friendly towards strangers

• they develop close affinity with behaved children

• they love to chase cats but they do not hurt them

• they can become a very good watch dog • they can become very lively

Breeders should note of the following health issues:

• Chronic skin problems

• Perthe's disease (hip problems)

• Jawbone calcification

• Cranio mandibular osteopathy (lion jaw)

• Patella luxation, a disorder in the kneecap

• Liver ailments

• Deafness

• Congenital heart disease

Care and Exercise:

• Their coat should be brushed regularly using a brush with stiff bristles.

• They should bathe only when necessary.

• Their whole coat should be stripped at least twice a year and trimmed every four months.

• The fur on the eyes and ears should be trimmed using blunt-nose mirrors.

• They will surely be more agile and healthy after regular sessions of play and/or walk.

Origin/History:

As noted, they share the same lineage with Cairns and Scotties (from Skye terriers), and even with the Dandies. This trio was developed in the Isle of Skye, which was one of the highlands in Scotland. It was noted that white whelps were chosen from the wiry-coated Cairns, Scotties, and Dandies to produce the variety that were known as Poltalloch terriers.

Following are some items in the history that show the Westies' reputation of being owners' favorite companion dogs.

Records in the history mentioned that around 1620, King James 1 of England requested some small white dogs from Argyleshire in Scotland. Colonel Malcolm, who was considered as the originator of Poltalloch terriers, that are very similar to the Westies of today, accidentally shot his terrier (a dark one). From then on he vowed to have only white terriers.

In the 19th century, terriers that were very similar to the Westies were known as Roseneath terriers in honor of Duke of Argyll's interest and patronage of this breed. Roseneath was the name of his estate at Dumbartonshire.

In the first-ever dog show that were organized in the late 1800s, the Westies were called as White Scottish terriers. In 1904, they were classified under the name West Highland White terriers.

During the mid-1900s, breeders of the Cairns in Argyll, Scotland selected white puppies from the stock and interbreed some to obtain white Cairns. However, in 1917, the American Kennel Club ruled that Cairns could be listed if they have the Westies' lineage. We can say the history repeats itself for this delightful terrier is now mostly a favorite companion dog of many households.

Read about how to find a dog obedience school and learn about how to stop dog chewing problems permanently at The Dog Trainer.

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A Glimpse on the Various Types of Terrier Dogs

2008-05-25T15:00:00.004-07:00

Whatever your dog preference is, you are sure to find terrier dogs among the candidates for a pal. You'll get energy you want with little grooming and added wit.

Basically bred for hunting and killing vermin, Terrier dogs are now known to offer wide spectrum of features and characters that you might find lovable. They are not as cuddly as toy dogs (while there are some terrier dogs in the toy and companion dog brackets) and they may not be as intelligent like other breeds but they set off these lacks with various things that only they can offer.

Let us discuss in brief some of the terrier dog types that you may find interesting:

Less aggressive but definitely not timid. This best describes Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers. They are definitely alert and very spirited, but when the call for steadiness arrives, they are sure to show you some air of confidence and steady disposition.

This dog type too is gifted with intelligence which makes them very responsive with obedience training.

Parson Russell Terrier is a dog type that exhibits boldness, cleverness, affection and exuberant disposition. While many may find this a playful pal, it is still not advisable for everyone to take Parson Russell home. In fact, formal obedience training is a must for owners since this dog type is more likely to display mischievousness and too much playfulness that make this a very independent pet. For people with active lifestyles and those who can tolerate explorative disposition, this scamp is the best for you.

The Norwich Terrier, on the other hand, is a type of dog that resulted from breeding small Terriers with other smaller breeds, possibly Yorkshire Terriers. Maintenance of Norwich Terrier is minimal and they are content with modest living quarters. They have active disposition though and can be affectionate and fearless. Additionally, they are also known to display stocky and happy personalities which make them ideal pals.

Much like the Norwich Terriers, Norfolk Terriers are also well-spirited, fearless, charming and always ready for game. While both may have some similar physical characteristics, Norfolks can still be distinguished through their folds in the ears.

Basically workman-like dogs, Kerry Blue Terriers are excellent watchdogs and work well in farm settings. This dog got its name from its blue-shade coat color which was originally black during puppyhood.

Wire Fox Terriers are of great interest since they display power through its excellent endurance capabilities and speed. Alertness and quick movements are the dominant expressions of this dog type. It is advisable though that the owner trains this dog and should be given enough doses of daily exercises.

Meanwhile, Smooth Fox Terriers are the frolic and lively types of dogs that are ideal in both country and city living. Displaying intelligence and cleverness, this dog makes good trainees and must be well credited by that. They are also likely to show great affection towards their owners.

These are just some of the many terrier dog types that can be considered as your next pets. In general, this dog type has good dispositions and makes ideal home pets. While some may display obscure aggressiveness, this still does not negate the fact that most types have the capacity to develop affection and keen expression of their attachment to their owners. Be warned though that some dog types in this breed can be very playful and should be given enough amount of attention and time during obedience training and exercises.

To read about dog crate training tips and choosing the best collar for dogs, visit The Dog Trainer.

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Make the right decision for your pet by opting for a cat health insurance

2008-05-25T15:00:00.003-07:00

Insurance is a part and parcel of our lives today, where one insures everything, starting from his life to his valuable assets and properties. Even though individuals are willing to take greater risks nowadays, still they ensure that each risk is well calculated and not unplanned. So, if we are that concerned about any unplanned damage or high risk accident happening to us, our loved ones or even our inanimate properties, then why not worry equally about our pets as well? However, sadly not many pet owners consider getting an insurance for their pet and therefore, face many unfortunate circumstances with regard to their pets. For instance, if you are a cat owner, a cat health insurance should be one of your prime objectives, but chances are that, you may not have analyzed the risk to your pet's health objectively enough to seriously consider a pet insurance.

A Cat health insurance provided by any reputed and reliable pet insurance company can greatly reduce the financial burden of providing the best care for your pet. Different plans will have a different premium payment attached to it and the coverage will also differ accordingly. However, if you calculate the amount of premium which you would be paying for a cat health insurance plan vis-a-vis the actual financial expenditure undertaken on your cat, you will be surprised to note the big difference. It is not surprising, therefore, that pet owners who have a health insurance for their pets are much better equipped to look after their pets in terms of the financial expenditure required, to give the pet the proper care and treatment it deserves.

When a pet owner fails to realize the importance of getting a cat health insurance for his beloved pet, the consequences can be devastating in certain unfortunate cases. If, for instance, you cat contracts a serious illness, requiring immediate hospitalization and expensive treatment, it may be a big financial burden for you to bear alone. Many pet owners have faced such situations and in most cases, the owner is forced to make a practical and devastating decision of putting the pet to sleep because the financial resources are not sufficient to provide for the treatment. The guilt, loss and mental anguish of losing a pet due to lack of funds is something that no pet owner would like to go through and it can be avoided with a timely pet insurance.

Getting a cat health insurance is easy and economic, if you have done your homework well. Research on the internet, for various insurance companies providing suitable pet insurance plans. Compare their rates and ask friends who have already selected some plan or the other. Once you have decided a plan based on your pet's age, gender, breed (if applicable) and on any existing medical condition, the processing becomes simple. So, think carefully, research well and choose wisely, so that both you and your pet can have a more secured and loving relationship, without financial worries creeping into your decisions for your pet.

Robert Scott is a veterinary doctor and through ages having been dealing in pet insurance. If you want to know more about Pet insurance,Pet insurance Online,Cat health insurance,Cat insurance, Veterinary pet insurance. you can visit www.insuranceforpets.net

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Make the right decision for your pet by opting for a cat health insurance

2008-05-25T15:00:00.002-07:00

Information about Welsh Terrier Dogs

2008-05-25T15:00:00.001-07:00

Welsh terrier dogs were originally bred as hunting dogs. However, this native breed of Wales soon rose to become show dogs. Breeders attempted to outdo each other by developing the Welsh terrier dogs' wiry coats and coloration. People often take a Welsh terrier dog as a pet because it is one of the most mild-mannered of terriers.

You might think that this characteristic would make it one of the more boring terriers. In fact, even the most die-hard terrier fan can have fun with this breed. This is because of the fact that Welsh terrier dogs love to play. This makes the Welsh terrier dog a great companion.

Although not as high-energy as other breeds, this dog still is a terrier, which means that it still does contain some high levels of energy. Because of this, it is advised that they be given proper exercise regularly. Another good advice to follow is to properly socialize the dog at an early age. This would help the dog be friendlier towards humans and would help the dog to develop a good tolerance of other animals. It is generally friendly around children, provided that the children do not provoke or pester it too much.

The Welsh terrier dog can be trained using different methods. What you need to keep in mind when training a Welsh terrier dog is that you can be firm but gentle. The Welsh terrier dog can be taught to perform a variety of tricks. This breed actually can do very well in fly ball tricks or tricks that involve catching flying things such as a Frisbee.

You should brush a Welsh terrier dog's hair at least once a week in order to remove dead or loose hair. This would help prevent unnecessary shedding inside the house. Although regular bathing is not really required, it is advisable that you wipe off dust and dirt from your dog regularly using a damp washcloth.

Because of its high energy level, it is advisable that a Welsh terrier dog be kept in a fenced in yard. This will give the dog enough space to play catch. However, if you take it out regularly to give it exercise, a Welsh terrier dog can do without the yard.

One thing that always gets people's attention is the Welsh terrier dog's excellent ability to jump. Because of this ability, it is sure to provide a lot of amusement to people. The main reason that it can jump and hop like it does is its long legs. It is because of these legs that a Welsh terrier dog can perform various tricks that other dog breeds are unable to do.

Why do you need to know all these things about Welsh terrier dogs? First of all, understanding these facts will help you discover the best way to take care of a Welsh terrier dog. Understanding these facts will also allow you to decide whether a Welsh terrier dog will make the best pet for you.

By learning all you can about Welsh terrier dogs, you get the knowledge necessary to provide the needs of your pet. This means that you will be able to develop a good, caring relationship with your pet.

Of course, learning all that you can about Welsh terrier dogs is not really easy. But you need to remember that life sometimes requires sacrifices to be made.

Read about how to find a dog obedience school and learn about how to stop dog chewing problems permanently at The Dog Trainer.

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Make the right decision for your pet by opting for a cat health insurance

2008-05-25T15:00:00.000-07:00

Some Information Regarding Cairn Terrier Pet Dogs

2008-05-14T15:00:00.024-07:00

If you are thinking of getting a Cairn terrier pet dog, then you need to know some information about it first. Why? Well, knowing the right information about anything will help you in the long run. This is especially true when we are talking about a pet ownership. Before you get a Cairn terrier pet dog, you need to be sure that you know what you are getting yourself into. You need to know how to take proper care of your cairn terrier pet dog and you also need to know what to expect when you are getting one.

Thankfully, there are a lot of sites on the internet which can provide you the necessary information. To save you some time, however, here are the basics:

Originally bred in the Scottish highlands, the Cairn terrier is the smallest of all terrier breeds. You should not let the size deceive you when you are getting a Cairn terrier pet dog, however. The Cairn terrier was first bred because of its working ability. You know what this means? This means energy.

A Cairn terrier pet dog has a lot of energy to spare. They can gain a lot from taking brisk walks daily. However, you should know that they do best when they have a fenced-in yard to play in. This way, they get more room when they play. Their high energy also means that they aren't really suitable for apartment or condo living. If you live in such places, then having a Cairn terrier pet dog is not for you.

Their energy may also put them in danger. This is the reason why you need to make sure that a Cairn terrier pet dog stays in one area. Their natural instincts tell them to dig and run and these activities may lead to accidents if unsupervised.

There are, however, a lot of positive things that can be said about a Cairn terrier pet dog's energy. For one thing, it makes the dog fun to play with. It can play for hours on end, giving you the companionship that you want. Another positive with this energy is the fact that this energy can be channeled into good purposes. A Cairn terrier pet dog is naturally inquisitive and is always willing to participate in a new adventure. This means that a Cairn terrier pet dog can be easily taught to do tricks. They learn tricks very fast and thrive in obedience training.

You need to make sure that your Cairn terrier pet dog is trained properly since untrained ones have a tendency to be destructive when they are bored.

Let us talk about the proper care for a Cairn terrier pet dog. One thing you do not need to worry about is its coat. The Cairn terrier pet dog was not bred for the beauty of its coat. The coat of a Cairn terrier pet dog is weather resistant and sheds little to no fur. Because of this, it can be a great indoor pet.

Being the smallest of terrier breeds, however, makes Cairn terrier pet dogs especially vulnerable to various health problems. Care must be taken when feeding it as it can gain weight quite rapidly. A Cairn terrier pet dog is also especially sensitive to fleas. However, you can be sure that this is one of the best breeds around.

For info on how to train a dog and dog potty training tips, visit The Dog Trainer website.

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The Playful and Inquisitive Dog: Cairn Terrier

2008-05-14T15:00:00.023-07:00

The Cairn is assumed as one of the subcategories of Scotland's terriers along with the Westies (West Highland White) and the Scottish, The Westies and the Cairns are highly related. For one, Westies are hybrids of white dogs crossed with Cairns of western Scotland. The Westie can be considered as the white variety of the Cairn who has a coat of any color but white. Scotties, however, have longer heads and bodies, have generally dark coats and are aloof than the other two. These dogs originated from the short-haired Skyes.

Cairn is the smallest breed among the terrier group. The name Cairn was coined after the small stone piles that marked borders of Scottish farms and graves. During the early times, this breed was used to guide small animals into these piles of stones. However, cairns are strong and sturdy but are not heavy.

This dog was already present during the 1500s even before it became popular in 1930, after the appearance of "Toto" in "The Wizard of Oz" as Dorothy's companion dog. Presently, like the American pit bull terriers, Cairns are used as companion dogs. Among the variety's talents are tracking, watching over the house, hunting, and performing tricks and sports regarding competitive obedience.

The following are some of the basic facts breeders would really love to know about Cairns:

Category: Terrier

Living Environment: indoors (highly recommended); outdoors (fenced yard)

Coat: shaggy and coarse outer coat and short and soft furry undercoat Colors: any color except white

Height: between 9.5 and 10 inches

Weight: between 13 and 14 pounds

Temperament: like most terriers that were bred as hunters, these dogs are mischievous, alert, restless and high-spirited; also have a special connection with children age six and above

Breeders should note of the following health issues:

• Atopy, a type of allergy

• Cataract, or loss of transparency of one or both lenses of the eyes

• Cryptorchidism, wherein testicles do not descend into the scrotum

• Glaucoma, a condition that causes an increase pressure within the eye

• Patellar luxation, a disorder in the kneecap Care and Exercise:

• Daily brushing is recommended to prevent tangles and mats.

• Hair around ears and eyes must be trimmed regularly.

• Do not over feed them as they gain weight easily.

• Their physique requires a regular exercise routine which includes a daily play time while on leash.

• They should be on leash while walking in public places because of their hunting instincts.

Origin/History:

As already noted, the Cairns were existent since around the 1500s. At around 1700s, the Isle of Skye and other highlands in Scotland were already producing lots of small terriers. Scottish breeds were separated into two: the Skye terriers and the Dandie Dinmont terriers.

The Dandie Dinmonts were categorized as a separate breed. The Skyes included the Scotties, the Westies, and the Cairns.

In the year 1912, the Cairns receive their official name based on their excellent ability to hunt down vermin such as otters, foxes, and badgers that were hiding in cairns. However, it was in the year 1913 when they received the official recognition from the American Kennel Club.

The Cairn terrier is one heck of an agile little dog that is very appropriate for the whole family. This breed is playful, prying, and is always ready to join the fun. If you are still not convinced, just reckon how Dorothy was entertained and accompanied by this type of dog.

To read about how to train a dog and tips on dog adoptions, visit The Dog Trainer.

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Things to Consider in buying a Dog House

2008-05-14T15:00:00.022-07:00

Your house is the best shelter for your pet dog. However, if you are no longer comfortable with your dog inside your house and sometimes is not possible to share the space with your dog, a dog house would be an option.

The use of dog houses has started thousand years ago. Ancient Egyptian used mud kennels and war time dog crates for their pet. Historically, dog houses have been hand-made from materials that could be scraped such as wood and plastic. Through time, the dog house industry had grown.

There are dog houses that are readily available in the market these days. You can even have them ordered online. In choosing dog house there are basic factors that should be put into considerations. First is the size of the house to fit the dog. Make sure that the size of the dog house is suitable enough for your dog. You might be tempted to buy a roomy house for your dog. That would not be appreciated however by your dog especially during cold months. There should be a room for them to turn around, stretch and lie down in comfortable position. Second, make sure that the house is well ventilated. Make sure it has a good air flow that will keep it from overheating especially during hot weather. Proper ventilation will prevent molds from forming during cold weather. You can put bedding for extra warm for your pet during rainy and cold weather. Some preferred to build houses for their dog off the ground. This keeps the dog from damp soil during rain and prevents wood dog house from rotting. Consider the materials that are used for the dog house. If your dog chews, consider a dog house that is made of hard plastics. Make sure that it is sturdy and safe for your dog. Cleaning the house would be another thing to consider also, make sure that it is easy to clean. You do not want your pet to live in a stinky place.

Dog houses are the second home for your pet. Make sure that it is built as comfortable as your house and safe for your dog. Consider the above things in buying dog house.

Find more information on Dog Houses, Dog Furniture and Pet Products

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Why Your Dog Bites and What To Do

2008-05-14T15:00:00.021-07:00

More than 4.5 million dog bite incidents are reported in the United States per year. Approximately half are incidents involving the family dog. There is no guarantee your dog will never bite someone. A dog can behave unpredictably, become aggressive and bite causing injury, but why? The reasons vary and there is no one answer.

The possibilities include heredity and personality (or DNA), prior difficult experiences, lack of proper socialization, fear, lack of proper training with regard to discipline, territory and boundaries, and lack of proper guidance from the pack leader or leaders, meaning guardian or guardians.

The risk factors that precipitate a dog bite incident can be significantly reduced.

Spayed or neutered dogs are less likely to bite. Dogs not socialized with children can possibly react to situations by biting. The most common reason children are bitten is a dog that is fearful or wishes to avoid what it is not sure of, resulting in aggressive behavior in an attempt to make the problem or situation go away.

You do not want your dog to be afraid or become aggressive. Therefore, socialization is very important from the earliest stages of life.

There is a difference between biting in play and aggression.

Biting is often associated with rough play that is to be enjoyed with your dog, but there is a distinct difference between biting in play and biting that turns into an act of domination and disrespect for the guardian.

Dogs are perfectly capable of being trained to grab enthusiastically and gently without crossing the line to aggressive biting behavior, a lesson that is naturally taught by their mother, littermates and other pack members. Young dogs bite each other everywhere and anywhere when they play. This is when they learn limits to their biting and learn control and boundaries to their play. If they are too rough with their playmates, they will find out by how the other dogs and puppies react to them. This is something that canines can accomplish and teach each other through trial and error, learning from their own experiences in the early stages far more effectively and efficiently than we can teach them. Because we take them away from this environment before this learning process is completed, it is necessary for the guardians to take over and complete the training.

If the dog happens to bite too hard during a play activity you can mimic its yelp or give a stern OUCH, and a NO BITING command, with a pause from the activity to let the dog know that it hurt. If you allow the dog to bite a bit too aggressively some of the time you will be sending an inconsistent message and biting will never be completely eliminated.

Under no circumstances do you hit.

If your dog grabs or jerks a toy from your hand during this play activity, it is time to suspend play, remove the toy from the dog’s possession and issue a verbal correction of NO BITING in a “you mean business” firm tone of voice. The dog must understand that the biting is too aggressive and you don't like it. You do not want to give the dog the impression that you suddenly do not like it by becoming abusive. Make up afterwards after a short time period, on your terms and not the dog's.

Physical punishment is the quickest way to erode the dog's trust.

It is up to the dog’s guardians to establish appropriate boundaries and behaviors in all aspects of living as a family pack unit through an education process without physical abuse by the guardian. A dog can love you almost unconditionally because of its loyal characteristics, but that does not mean it trusts and respects you.

Training the family dog should be a family matter.

Every household member should learn the proper training techniques and participate in the dog's education. It is best to not send your dog away to be trained; family members should be the ones, with proper guidance, to teach your dog how to behave in your home. Note that training courses are a great investment even for experienced dog caregivers.

We’ve existed as a company since 1985, but it was a love of dogs, the dogs that have been a part of our life, and the passing of one dog in particular, Rusty, that inspired the creation of http://www.CalloftheDog.com and http://www.CalloftheDogShop.com -- created to provide the things your dogs and pets need. Visit us for great information and quality dog supplies! Be sure to see our About Us page as well. See our Online Dog Training and Product Recommendations at http://www.CalloftheDog.com/dogbiting.php

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Enjoy The Freedom With The Pet Door

2008-05-14T15:00:00.020-07:00

Dogs using a pet door should be trained in basic obedience. Dogs should be trained from the beginning on how to use dog doors. Some dog doors are constructed in such a way that only the dog can enter an exit through it, preventing other creatures to enter the house. Dogs usually are territorial enough to keep other animals from coming in.

Dogs that spend too much of their early life confined in an unclean area - where appropriate space for bladder relief isn't consistently available - may learn to tolerate pottying indoors. Unless you've rescued your dog from such grim circumstances, however, he would probably prefer to potty outside.

Magnetic electronic pet doors employ a small, magnetic collar tag that disrupts the magnetic field around the pet door and causes it to unlock. Magnetic door provides extra security by restricting entry only to cats wearing magnetic collar keys. Helps keep strays and other animals out of the house.

Installing pet doors is also important because it prevents accidents and you no longer have to search for your cats or dogs as soon as you return home. They will be the one to come to you immediately as you enter the house. Installs super fast, easy to take out and reinstall if you move by one person in minutes. Installation is simple and quick with only 4 steps. This pet door is available in medium, large, extra large and super large.

Dog doors generally must be bigger than cat flaps and therefore are often constructed differently; except in rural areas they tend to give access to fenced -in yards or gardens rather than the neighbourhood at large. Dog and dog owners both enjoy the freedom that comes with a dog door. There is no more excessive barking when he or she needs to be let out at night.

What is your ideal pet doors? Patio pet door? Johnson pet door? Sliding glass pet door? Find all about pet door now. http://www.BestPetDoor.info

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Your Petâs Examinations and Vaccinations, Part II

2008-05-14T15:00:00.019-07:00

Vaccinations have been one of the greatest medical achievements for protecting the health of our pets. Without them, we would loose countless numbers of our beloved pets to diseases such as Canine Distemper, Canine Infectious Hepatitis, Canine Parainfluenza, Canine Parvovirus, Feline Rhinotracheitis, Feline Panleukopenia, Feline Calicivirus, Feline Leukemia virus, and Rabies virus. Even with their availability, we still see cases of these every year. Yes it is hard to believe that in this day and age we still see cases of Canine Distemper and it is not at all uncommon for us to see cases of Canine Parvovirus, Feline Rhinotracheitis, and Feline Leukemia.

It is absolutely essential that all puppies and kittens receive the full complement of booster vaccinations for which safe and effective vaccines are available, and that they receive the full complement of vaccinations at the one-year anniversary of the kitten or puppy series.

The doctors in VeterinarianCare.us network recommend that all adult dogs receive vaccinations as follows:

Canine Distemper, Infectious Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Leptospirosis, and Parvovirus vaccination annually.

Canine Bordatella vaccination for dogs expected to spend time at a boarding, training, or grooming facility. The vaccine is given semi-annually.

Canine Lyme disease, or Coronavirus vaccine when indicated.

Rabies vaccination annually, although every three years is within the requirement of Texas law. Some municipalities do require more frequent vaccination for licensing.

It is recommended that all adult cats receive vaccinations as follows:

Feline Rhinotracheitis, Panleukopenia, and Calicivirus vaccination annually although some cats may be at lower risk for exposure and alternate year vaccination may be adequate. These feline vaccinations are available as adjuvant free.

Feline Leukemia vaccine annually although some cats may be at lower risk of exposure and alternate year vaccination may be adequate. In addition some cats may have zero risk of exposure and not need his vaccine as an adult. This is available as an adjuvant free vaccine.

Feline Immunosuppressive Virus (FIV) vaccine when there is sufficient risk of exposure. The vaccine is given annually.

Rabies vaccine annually. In this case an adjuvant free vaccine can be used making it the safest available. Vaccination every three years is within the requirements of the law, but for those choosing to do this an adjuvant containing three-year vaccine must be used.

We encourage you to discuss with our doctors which vaccinations should be given to your pet.

Dr Paul Skellenger is the Veterinarian for Veterinarian Care. us and has over 20 years in Veterinarian medicine and experience with animal vaccinations. For additional information you can contact one of our Veterinarians in your area.

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Major Concerns with a Border Terrier

2008-05-14T15:00:00.018-07:00

If you want to have a small but sturdy pet dog, then the Border terrier might be for you. This pet is no delicate lapdog. The Border terrier pet dog is full of fun for the whole family.

Before getting a Border terrier pet dog, however, you might want to consider some of the major concerns regarding the breed. This will help you weigh the pros against the cons and will let you reach a decision that would be best for you. Here are some concerns regarding Border terrier pet dogs:

1) Temperament - when people talk about terriers, they all comment on the same behavior using different words. Some people say that their dogs are feisty. Some say that their dogs are stubborn. Some people would prefer to use the word impulsive. The point is, they all describe the same behavior. A terrier is inherently dynamic in its behavior. It is part of what makes a terrier, a terrier.

The temperament of the Border terrier pet dog may be quite surprising, if not outright shocking for most people because of its size. For such a small dog, a Border terrier pet dog sure packs a lot of energy.

2) Aggression - Border terrier pet dogs are not really as aggressive as other breeds. However, its instincts as a terrier would still urge it to run after anything smaller than it. This means that if you own a cat or even a pet rabbit, you cannot have a Border terrier pet dog. This also means that you cannot trust a Border terrier pet dog out of its leash. If it even sees something running, it will take off, leaving you yelling uselessly. This, of course, can cause accidents to happen. In order to make sure that your Border terrier pet dog does not get hit by a car, you need to keep that pet on a leash outside.

3) Escape - it is recommended by many experts that Border terrier pet dogs should be kept in a fenced-in yard to let it have some roaming space while making sure that it is safe. However, you should know that Border terrier pet dogs are clever escape artists. Even if a Border terrier pet dog is within a closed in fence, you should try to keep an eye on it.

4) The noise - Border terrier pet dogs will bark at practically anything that catches their attention. Because of this, you need to properly train them to bark only when needed. You should also be quick to stop them if they are barking inappropriately.

For this reason, you should not really get a Border terrier pet dog if you live with very close neighbors and if you work during the day. An unsupervised Border terrier pet dog is sure to keep barking all day long. This, of course, may draw complaints from your neighbors.

5) Independent thinking - what people love about Border terrier pet dogs is the fact that they can learn very quickly. This is because of their inherent curiosity and toughness. However, the same qualities that make them prize-winners can also make them very stubborn when they want to. You have to be consistent with your commands and show the Border terrier pet dog that you mean what you say. In doing so, you will be training the Border terrier pet dog properly.

To read about how to train a dog and tips on dog adoptions, visit The Dog Trainer.

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Iguana Care

2008-05-14T15:00:00.017-07:00

The Basics of Iguana Care

There are a lot of people who seem to adore the iguanas and they end up buying the baby iguanas out of a spur of the moment decision. But then when these baby iguanas grow larger than what they

have expected at first, they cram as to whom to give them to. If the iguanas are given the utmost care, they are likely to grow really large. It is vital to know that the iguanas can grow to some

really large measurement, in fact, even larger than their containers. If you do intend to keep an iguana under your care, it is relatively essential to know the basics of iguana care.

The Selection of Iguana

If you intend to pick an iguana to be your pet, it is important to get the iguana that looks active and alert. But make sure that your choice will also get calmed especially when you try sticking

your hand into its tank. The iguana of your choice must possess bright and clear eyes, must be free from any sort of abrasion, sores, scratches, and any from of marks, and should possess good

health. Ensure also that the iguana that you are to buy is not in any way covered with feces that signify its dirty environment. A disgusting environment means the presence of bacteria and the

possible outbreak of a disease that can harm the health of the iguana.

The Housing of the Iguana

For starters, the iguana can be kept in a tank that measures about 30 to 50 gallons. During its entire growth, it will be necessary to have a custom built cage for your pet. It is important that

the cage should be higher since iguanas love to jump around. The cage bottom cover is also another important consideration to dwell on. The cover can be an orchid bark, indoor or outdoor

carpeting, an artificial turf, a newspaper, or an alfalfa pellets. Remember that wood chips or barks are unadvisable, as they tend to attract insects and termites. Meanwhile, those cedar chips

can be toxic too.

It is better that you set up some branches to allow the climbing sprees of the iguanas. Take note that they are tree-dwelling lizards. The branches must be able to hold on the size of your pet

iguana. Hot rocks are likewise not recommended as a substitute for the lighting of the tank.

The Heating Technique

Iguanas should be maintained warm so that proper digestion of their food will be allowed. This technique will also save them from diseases. A good type of thermometer must be placed inside the

tank so as to monitor the temperature of the house. There should be a basking spot that has a temperature of between 95-100 degrees F. One of the best heat sources that you can opt for is a

spotlight. Other options include the under tank heaters, heat tape, or ceramic lights. Some recovering iguanas will need warmer temperatures especially at night.

The Feeding Scheme

It is important to be very careful with the food that you feed your iguanas. The green iguanas are plant-eaters. Any kind of animal protein should not be feed to them. They may like the pizza and

junk food treats but these food will do them no good and will henceforth subject them to kidney failures. Vegetables must be given to them in minimal quantities. Spinach is a NO NO to them.

The diet required for iguanas are the food that contain high content of calcium, vitamin D3, and low in phosphorous. The commercial iguana food can also be made part of their diet.

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Caring for Your Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Pet Dog

2008-05-14T15:00:00.016-07:00

The soft coated wheaten terrier would be considered by most people to be "high maintenance". This means that a lot of care should be given to it in order to maintain its stature. This statement also means that a lot of steps should be taken in order to care for the dog properly. So how do you care for your soft coated wheaten terrier pet dog?

Let us first talk about the coat. This is one of the most distinguishing characteristics of a soft coated wheaten terrier pet dog. In fact, when you take a look at the name, you will realize that the coat gives the dog its identity. Taking care of this essential part of the soft coated wheaten terrier dog can be quite a daunting task. This is especially true if you have just found out about the various standards that people use to judge the beauty of a soft coated wheaten terrier pet dog.

Frequent grooming is required to keep the coat shiny and to prevent matting. It also helps get rid of any accumulated dirt. You should comb or brush your soft coated wheaten terrier dog everyday to make sure that his coat remains silky and tangle-free. The coat also needs to be trimmed once in a while to preserve the "terrier look" and to allow a new coat to grow.

Besides the coat, you should also take care of the nails and teeth of your soft coated wheaten terrier pet dog. In case that you do not know what to do by yourself, you might want to hire some professional dog grooming services to do the job for you.

Another aspect you should concentrate on is the training. Remember to train your soft coated wheaten terrier dog as early as possible in order to ingrain in him the basics of proper behavior. There are several keywords that should come to your mind when training your soft coated wheaten terrier pet dog:

1) Consistency - be consistent with your teaching. Do not use different commands in order to get the same response as this will only serve to confuse your soft coated wheaten terrier pet dog. You should also be consistent in terms of reward and punishment. This will help your dog understand what you want to happen.

2) Tone - a soft coated wheaten terrier dog is actually pretty sensitive to the tones in the human voice. This means that the dog will be able to tell if you are feeling upset or if you are feeling impatient. You need to learn how to moderate your tone in order to avoid confusion with your soft coated wheaten terrier pet dog.

3) Timing -learn the proper timing of when to correct your soft coated wheaten terrier pet dog. The element you need during correction is surprise. You need to correct the soft coated wheaten terrier for a mistake right after or even before it performs the act. This way, you will be able to instill a sense of consequence into your soft coated wheaten terrier pet dog.

Caring and training for your soft coated wheaten terrier can be quite a bit of work. You will also have to contend with the energy inherent in every terrier breed. However, with patience, your efforts will be rewarded.

To read about dog crate training tips and choosing the best collar for dogs, visit The Dog Trainer.

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Ensure good living for your pet with a sound pet insurance

2008-05-14T15:00:00.015-07:00

A pet is the most trusted companion, which you can hope to find and any pet owner will gladly agree with me. In fact, many counselors suggest that keeping a pet at home is one of the most interesting and effective ways to fight stress. When you come back home from a tiring day at work and your dog rushes to greet you with a wildly wagging tail and a lick on your face, even the darkest mood can disappear within an instant. As a pet owner, you may, however, feel that your responsibility towards the animal is only limited to providing it a roof over its head, food on time, plenty of exercise and game and of course abundant love. However, you also need to realize that it is crucial for you to have a definite plan for your pet's welfare, the same way you would plan for your loved ones. A pet insurance is therefore, a necessary ingredient in providing your pet the best care that it can get and deserves.

Many reputed and reliable companies are in the business of offering pet insurance to various owners, but it is up to you to select the right company and more importantly, the right plan. In this case, the internet and the yellow pages may be your best source of information from where you could easily locate the best pet insurance company. Once you have short listed a few good companies, you could then compare the various insurance plans that they offer, depending on your pet's breed, gender, age and medical condition, as well as the insurance premium of each plan and the coverage they provide.

In case your pet already suffers form any existing disease or is under treatment for any particular ailment, you must be sure to check whether the condition is covered under the pet insurance plan, which you finally opt for. The insurance coverage will safeguard you and your pet under various circumstances besides usual diseases, treatment and accidents. For instance, if a neighbor's property has been damaged by your pet, you could get be under an insurance plan that would help you pay off the damage entirely, without you having to shell out any money at all. Similarly, insurance coverage is also available for advertising for a lost pet, covering damages if holiday plans have been canceled due to a pet, etc.

No matter which pet insurance plan you choose, as long as you are satisfied with the clauses and the kind of coverage provided, the premium will never be an issue. The monthly premium which you will pay for the insurance will be nominal compared to the amount that you would have to bear out of your own pocket, if any unforeseen circumstances arose and your pet was not insured. So, it is advisable to be careful while selecting an apt plan for your pet and read the terms and conditions carefully before you finally decide to sign on the dotted line of the insurance contract for you pet.

Robert Scott is a veterinary doctor and through ages having been dealing in pet insurance. If you want to know more about Pet insurance, Pet insurance Online, Cat insurance, Veterinary pet insurance. you can visit www.insuranceforpets.net

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Dog Pregnancy - Signs and Care

2008-05-14T15:00:00.014-07:00

Being puppy is the cutest stage of a dog, it's so lovely to see how this little innocent angel moving around, learn to play, eat so well, run around and perform his agilities, and become little cute monster that messes things around. Then we will think about health, petsafe and future. There are still terrible canine over-population problems so it is better to be part of solution rather than to be part of the problem. Responsible owners who want to breed their dogs must pass all required registrations, accreditations, health screening, etc.

A female dog, correctly referred to as a bitch, can only become pregnant if she is bred during her heat cycle. The pregnancy generally lasts about two months or 56 to 69 days from the date of the first breeding, although this period may be slightly shorter or longer. Small breeds may deliver a week earlier while large breeds often deliver later. Over ninety-eight percent of all dogs deliver their puppies without assistance or complications.

For the first three weeks or so of pregnancy, you may not notice any changes in the bitch. Some females will become more demanding for attention, their nipples may enlarge slightly, and some may become hungrier. These are not a guarantee of a pregnancy, but are good signs. Bitches can show the same signs during 'false pregnancy,' a hormonal abnormality, which may occur after a bitch has been in heat. Decreased appetite is usually one of the earliest signs that your bitch might be pregnant. Not all females go through this doggie version of "morning sickness", but a small percentage will eat less during the first few weeks of gestation, usually making up for it later in the pregnancy. Further indication is a sudden decrease in activity, the nipple growth is noticeable, breast material will develop beneath the nipples, which will also increase slightly in preparation for eventual milk production. Behavioral changes such as increase in affectionate behavior or an expressed desire to be left alone. But beware, don’t give any vitamin supplements in the first month of her pregnancy, the birth defects will be develop from too much vitamins A, D and calcium, all she need is high quality diet. No vaccinations should take place during pregnancy, they may harm the fetus. Vaccinations are prior to breeding. Always visit the vet to consult for her condition, from approximate 21-25 days, endocrinological tests detects pregnant dog hormone, relaxin. Puppies hearth beat can be detected after 25 days using ECG but it’s difficult to test their number. X-ray can pick up puppy skeleton from around 49 days and can determine the number of siblings, but X-Ray is not advisable to use because of radiation danger and damage.

In fourth week, the increase in appetite and gaining weight are changes of progress signs of pregnancy, the abdomen will thicken, and gentle examination of the belly will reveal a firm, rather than fat feeling to the area. The bitch should continue to have regular, but not strenuous, exercise to help her maintain her muscle tone and not become overweight. Exercise involves a daily run to make sure all her muscles, including her uterine muscles, are in top condition. She really needs enough sleep on her dog crate, at week 7, it’s advised to increase her meal about 25% and another 25 % on 8th week. Closer to the delivery date, your bitch will probably start to express her nesting instincts, scratching at the floor or in her bed, and displaying signs of increasing restlessness.

During the first stage of labor the cervix begins to dilate and uterine contractions begin. These contractions are painful and perplexing to the dog. She will appear quite uncomfortable and restless - pacing, shivering and panting. She probably will not eat and she may even vomit. Some dogs whine persistently. Others occupy themselves building a nest. Take her temperature rectally twice a day, the normal dog temperature is about 100.3F - 101.3F. It will normally drop to about 98 degrees Fahrenheit, 8 - 24 hours before the onset of labor and she will refuse to eat or drink anything.

During the second stage of labor uterine contractions begin in force. As this stage progresses the placental water sacks break and a straw-colored fluid is passed. Placentas are expelled after each puppy or sporadically during labor. Pups usually appear every half-hour or so after ten to thirty minutes of forceful straining. As the pups deliver, the mother will lick the puppy clean and bite off the umbilical cord. It is important to let the mother do this, if she will, because through this process she bonds with her puppies and learns to recognize them as her own. The rough licking of the mother stimulates the puppies to breathe and improves their circulation.

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2008-05-14T15:00:00.013-07:00

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Your Petâs Examinations and Vaccinations, Part II