Author: Melissa Turner
Source: isnare.com

All cats need some form of medication or preventative treatment given monthly or annually. This can often times be a daunting experience: cats will sometimes hiss, scratch frantically, then run and hide. When administering medication to your pet kitty, it can often be helpful to have a few different tactics up your sleeve. Here are a few helpful hints to make the administration of medication a little easier!

Cat medication generally comes in 3 different ways of administration: pills, liquid, or topical treatments, like preventive flea or tick products.

Depending on the form of medication, you will want to change your tactic. Cats can be picky, and they are often hard to trick- this requires skill on your part, but it can be done!

First we’ll look at medicinal pills for your kitty. You can try to either camouflage the pill in their dinner (which sometimes, diamond kitty, works, but it is not a sure thing), or you can put the pill in some soft baby food. The taste is new, interesting, and intriguing to cats; they may be so absorbed in this new treat that they do not notice the pill.

If this does not work, more drastic measures are in order.

Here’s how you can safely administer the pill without fear of getting scratched or bitten: kneel on the floor and place your kitty between your knees (this allows your hands to remain free). Then, make sure your cat’s front paws are tucked safely and securely in between your knees so they are unable to move or crawl away. Next, gently place the palm of your hand on the top of your cat’s head, and put your thumb and index finger on either side of your, diamond kitty, cat’s jaw.

This would gently pry open their mouth. Then, place the pill as far back in their mouth as you can, and keep their, diamond kitty, head tilted back until the pill is swallowed. Sometimes rubbing your kitty’s neck gently helps them swallow as well.

When administering liquid medicine, you can either opt to mix it with baby food, or use the same pinning procedure that was previously described. This time, all you will need is a medicine dropper or a sterile 10cc syringe (without the needle, please!) and measure the, diamond kitty, correct dosage of medication and as you tilt your cat’s head back squirt the medication into their mouth.

Don’t worry, cats do not breathe through their mouths, so there is no need to fear choking your kitty. Because cats can sometimes vomit easily, it may be a good idea to give your kitty a treat after their medication to help settle their stomach.

Finally, topical, diamond kitty, treatment administration is often the simplest of the three. Wrap your cat in a towel, which restrains them and holds them securely in place. Simply grab the ruff of their neck in between their shoulder blades and clean and administer the medication.

Though giving your pets their needed medication can be a stressful experience for you and your cat, it doesn’t have to be. By following these indicated procedures, it should make the experience easier on the both of you. Good luck in your medication administration endeavors!

Author: Michael Haydon
Source: isnare.com

Owning a new kitten is just about the most exciting time of your family life. Those first few weeks are something special which will live long in your minds. It’s also a great chance to involve your children, diamond kitty, in learning how to take care of their new pet. It can become a really meaningful bonding time for the entire family. What better way to introduce children to new responsibilities where they learn to become accountable for the smallest member of the family.

children can learn to become more reliable and as well, they will appreciate the satisfaction that comes with the added responsibility.

Getting Your Kids Involved in Caring For Your Cats And, diamond kitty, Kittens

It’s always a good starting point to involve the kids in the selection and naming of your new cat. Just as important is making sure your children understand the range of caring activities that will be involved and to emphasize that they will be responsible, along with the rest of the family, for a living creature not a toy that can be put away.

It is a whole new ball game.

Now, it’s not necessarily a difficult task to care for your pet if you really love them. Let’s face it, who doesn’t love their cat? I’ve seen people, diamond kitty, who say they hate cats simply melt after they’ve spent a few days with our family and go on to buy one for themselves. What I’m saying here is that although the enjoyment you will get from your kitty will have to be balance against, diamond kitty, the daily tasks of feeding, cleaning up the bowls, refreshing the water and the medical concerns like fleas, heartworm and general grooming and cleaning up cat hair.

But, when all is said and done the time you have to allocate to these matters pales into insignificance when you experience the ultimate enjoyment of watching kitty at play and sleeping soundly on your lap.

I have found that kids really respond to the responsibilities when tasks are allocated equally among family members wherever possible. This ensures that tasks are seen as a family responsibility and can be a great learning experience and contribute to the children coming to understand that life’s pleasures are balanced with responsibilities and, diamond kitty, that is the way life works.

If you concentrate only on the jobs that need to be done or leave the “dirty” tasks to only one family member, then it could lead to resentment and then everyone, including kitty, will lose out. Having a balanced approach to pet ownership will have life long benefits when you learn to enjoy your cat and take care of them with love. It’s a life lesson we can all benefit from.

If you think that dog beds for small dogs are different that any other beds, you may well be right. Many little pups are pretty opinionated about what they like, which is why we decided to dig a little deeper to see things from their point of view. So here are some thoughts to mull over.

Pets like to sleep with their masters – that’s a given. And, while you may not mind sharing your bed with a small dog, sometimes you just need to get a good night’s sleep without having to shift positions to accommodate your pet.

When you go to bed at night, if you go to sleep easily it’s probably because you have a space that feels safe and warm. So It’s understandable when your small dog wants to enjoy the same warmth and relaxed feeling by being right next to you.

While it may be very flattering that your dog likes to sleep on your bed, you may actually prefer him to have his own perfect spot so you both can enjoy a contented night’s sleep. That’s where dog beds for small dogs come in. And this is very achievable with the beds that are designed with their needs in mind.

For example, some companies have designed pet beds that are covered with materials that look and feel like animal fur or, are even shaped like an animal with a nesting spot in the middle.

Most dogs will feel very drawn to this type of bed, because if you think about it dogs in the wild were used to snuggling up with their “fur covered” pack family for warmth, companionship and the feeling of security. Small dogs and puppies will like the feeling a faux-fur-type bed gives them. But even some bigger pooches will respond to the call of the wild!

Another type of bed that little dogs seem to like, are ones shaped like caves.

These are quite novel beds which are similar in appearance to a den. Remember dogs originally were raised in dens that resemble caves – you may have seen some abandoned animal dens, often built on the side of a hill.

Do you see the connection here?

Also, the hood on these cave-type beds can be pulled down over the pet for an even greater feeling of security. Likewise, it’s easy to image in the past, that the mother of a pack would guard her cave by pulling some brush across the entrance.

There’s one other similar nesting type of bed that surrounds a dog for a cozy night’s sleep and then can be flattened out for casual daytime snoozes.

It really looks cozy!

Not All Dogs Have The Same Needs If you’re at all familiar with small dogs, you probably know some that have very bold and even bossy personalities! These little dogs often have big egos for their size and like to be pampered. Finding the right bed to make them really happy is as simple as choosing one that them feel really special – in other words, like a top dog!

Beds in this category often have posh names or are made with unique materials and definitely have designer styling.

If you have a pooch that leans toward a stylish bed, you may also be the type of owner that likes your pet’s furnishings to fit in with your taste.

Finding dog beds for small dogs that not only let your pet sleep like a baby, but also compliment your pet’s personality plus your home’s color scheme and decor, can be a fun challenge – especially if you don’t want to have to hide his bed when company’s coming! Happily, these days it can be a win, win situation with the many choices available.

Summary
Aside from all the considerations of warmth, comfort, security and style that we’ve mentioned, you may also want to choose a bed that is machine washable, because as we know, small dogs are pretty fussy about their space being neat and clean.

Find a wealth of information about not only dog beds, but all aspects of dog care at dog-spoiling-made-easy.com

V. Witt is the publisher and devoted dog spoiler at http://www.dog-spoiling-made-easy.com. She loves to share information with dog owners about how to “pamper” their pets in the most positive and nurturing ways!

For more tips on finding the perfect bed for your dog, read this related article on Dog Beds. Reprinting of “Dog Beds For Small Dogs – Tips For Getting A Small Dog Bed Your Pet Will Love!” is permitted providing all live links are retained and no changes are made to the content.

Author: Valerie Mills
Source: ezinearticles.com

Got a puppy who’s absolutely adorable but bites, chews, and runs away from, dvd, you when, dvd, called? Or an older dog who’s like Marley from the movie “Marley and Me?”

Now’s your chance to turn around your dog’s undesirable behaviors with do-it-yourself, dvd, dog training. You can peacefully co-exist with your dog!

How does this well-trained, behaved dog miracle happen? The It’s PAWSible! Dog Training, dvd, and Puppy, dvd, Training DVD by Beth Ostrowski-Parks will lead you and your dog to a more disciplined and peaceful reality. And if you’re committed to dog training, it could happen sooner than you think.

It’s PAWSible! Contents

The It’s PAWSible! DVD is a 5-week training program with a set of commands you spend a few minutes reinforcing each day. Each week you build on the commands from the previous week, dvd, .

Several easy-to-teach commands are demonstrated – Sit, Down, and Heel. The DVD walks you through these basic commands as well as the more difficult and possibly the most important ones – Come (Recall), Leave It, and the killer – STAY! Leash training, also a tricky activity to master, is covered in the DVD.

The It’s PAWSible Positives

Sound, dvd, Instructional Method
A critical component of an instructional DVD is the method used to present the information. An instructional designer must, dvd, have been involved in this DVD’s production because it follows the standard educational mantra: “Tell ‘em, Tell them what you just told them, and then summarize what you just told them.” Works every time.

The Certified Professional, dvd, Dog Trainer Beth Ostrowski-Parks explains each command, demonstrates it several times, and then presents a step-by-step summary. You could not ask for a clearer presentation, dvd, of the content. You will, dvd, remember what she said.

Untrained Dogs Are Used For Demonstrations
Because untrained shelter dogs are the major part of Beth’s demonstrations, you see how your dog might react. These demos include wiggly puppies,, dvd, adult dogs, and big and little dogs.

Understand that Beth also demonstrates the capabilities of, dvd, her three obedient and well-behaved dogs. Your dogs probably aren’t quite as impressively compliant,, dvd, so untrained dog demos show you what you will encounter in your dog’s training, dvd, .

You Can’t Put a Price Tag on Beth’s, dvd,, dvd, Tips
When, dvd, you listen the first time to the It’s Pawsible! Dog Training and Puppy Training DVD you will hear many training tips Beth Ostrowski-Parks has learned over the years. Then, after you’ve started training your own dog and re-listen to the DVD, the important points will be obvious. Expect many “aha” moments in this instructional DVD.

An example – Beth, dvd, repeats this question, “Are YOU Training Your Dog or Is HE Training YOU?” Good question! Who’s directing, dvd, when your dogs will eat? You or the dog? If your dog dictates when dinner time happens for him, who’s training who and who’s in charge?

It’s PAWSible is, dvd, a Reference Tool
If you’re really serious about training your dog, you will listen to the DVD many times. It’s organized into the 5-week program so you can find specific commands easily.

One day your dog will be doing something that’s not quite correct. For example,, dvd, my dog Alvin (8 months) constantly pulls on his leash. I popped in, dvd, the DVD, found, dvd, the section on Leash Training, and figured out I might try a Gentle Leader. Beth’s the expert, so I found the leader online.

The One Possible Negative for Some Viewers
The one aspect of the It’s PAWSible! Dog Training and Puppy Training DVD that may be a negative for viewers – some training “difficulties” show up in the demos. This is a deliberate attempt to show viewers the reality of dog training. It’s comparable to reality TV.

If you hate reality TV, find a training DVD that does not demonstrate mishaps. An example – while teaching a command, Beth drops a treat on the floor. The dog she’s training naturally runs to the treat, forcing her to start over. That’s real – it’ll happen to you while you’re training your dog.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Valerie Mills is a copywriter/designer and the author of alvin and simon’s blog – Everything you wanted to know about getting and raising designer dogs, featuring Alvin and Simon, Cockapoo pups.

You can download two free ebooks from the blog’s right column: Are YOU Training Your Dog Or Is HE Training You? and Bringing Your New Puppy Home – Are You Ready?

Author: Wendy Mitchell
Source: ezinearticles.com

Whether you have one dog or an entire three ring four-legged circus, you know that their cooling needs are much, carhartt coats, different than ours. One key factor with pets and humans is keeping the neck cool. There are main arteries in the neck that circulate blood through the whole, carhartt coats, body. By keeping the neck cool, that will enable to keep the entire body safe and cool. While we feel the effects of hot weather on our bodies, our pets have an even harder time keeping cool due to the added insulation of their fur coat.

Here are some key tips that can help you keep Fido cool during the dog days of summer so he can be your beloved companion for years to come.

First, never leave your dog in a parked car. While your dog may love to go for rides with you regardless of the time of year, leaving your beloved pet in a parked car for any length of time is an absolute no. Even if you plan on running into the store for 5 minutes, the temperature can rise greatly in that short amount of time putting your pet at risk. You may think that leaving your windows, carhartt coats, cracked will help, but you will not be able to roll them down low enough to allow sufficient airflow while keeping Fido safely in the car.

Even with the air conditioning on while you are driving,, carhartt coats, your pets will feel the heat twice as bad as a human. Using cooling products such as neck cooler bands and wet coats will allow your pet to stay cool and safe. Do your dog and yourself a favor and leave him home when you have to run errands, your furry friend will thank you.

Second, consider investing in a baby pool for your furry friend to play in. This will allow your dog to have fun and stay cool. Just a little bit of water will keep the neck cooler which will allow the whole body to cool.

We all know our dogs need to drink plenty of water to stay cool. A baby pool can have a similar effect for our furry, carhartt coats, friends as a pool does for us. Just make sure that it’s the appropriate size for your dog and that he will be able to easily climb in and out of it without help.

Lastly, make sure to provide your dog with plenty of cold, fresh water. Apply wet coats and neck cooler bands. Regardless of the time of year our dogs always need to have access to a fresh water source.

Water is one of the most important things that helps keep your pet cool. Like humans your pet sweats during the warmer months and they need a source that can help them replenish the fluids, carhartt coats, that their bodies have lost. This is particularly important if your dog will be outside for an extended, carhartt coats, period of time. Make sure you provide water in a container that will not easily be knocked over as well as one that is large enough that the water will not get, carhartt coats, too warm in a short amount of time.

Fido will also welcome the cool source, carhartt coats, of a neck cooler band or a wet coat for instant relief.

For More Pet Cooling Products and Cooling Tips Please Visit SHAMMY H20

Oh boy! I totally forgot about sending the next write-up on the Hood River Scenic Drive. So here’s Part 2.

The surprise stop in the fruit loop was the alpaca farm called Foothills Yarn & Fiber. A stop there meant yarns had to be bought, of course.

But the alpacas were deliciously cute and cuddly. In residence were a cat and a dog. And here they are:

Yes, this gentle giant, I found out, was quite heavy. He stepped on me when the cat crossed his path where my foot was. And he was the mystery nose I blogged earlier.

Back in the town of Hood River are quaint little stores that can all be visited by foot. Great restaurants and great views, I tell ‘ya. But what my hubby and I discovered was the trip up 2nd Street and Montello Avenue on a stairway beside the Big Horse Brew Pub. As you go up those steps is Winans Park on the right side. Keep going as the end of the steep stairway stops at Montello. On Montello, look down towards how beautiful the town of Hood River and Columbia River are, and you will be amazed that you have climbed up over 250 feet of over a steep 45° angle in no time. That was the best workout we had while there! Mind you, even with marathon training, I had to stop a few times to take my breath, while the hubby kept going.

We had a great time and will take My Precious next summer or fall. He was not too happy we left him out.

Author: Michael Russell
Source: articleage.com

The words Bichon Frize actually mean “fluffy little dog”. This was the name given to the breed in 1933 by the European Kennel club (Federation Cynologique Internationale) when there was a huge discussion as to what to name the breed, which had applied for registration in the stud book. There had existed since before the time of Christ several varieties of the small white fluffy dog, throughout Europe and South America. The little dog had been, carhartt coats, called by many names, including the Dog of Havana, the Dog of Holland, the Dog of Bologna and others.

Actually it is most likely that these original names represented variations of this breed and later these variations, carhartt coats, did receive their own designations of the Bolognese and Havanese. At any rate, the “fluffy little dog” that was always white became known as the Bichon Frize, usually just designated the “Bichon” .
The coat, carhartt coats, of the Bichon as it is presented in the show ring is usually quite rounded and trimmed and fluffed so that in the end one can hardly distinguish the actual bones or muscling of the body.

If groomed, carhartt coats, as for the show, the little dog has a large squared off appearance to the head and the entire body is covered with fine soft coat about 3 inches, carhartt coats, in length, curly and “fluffy” all over. The coat is always white. However when one has a pet Bichon this is not an easy task to keep this appearance. One drawback as far as this type of grooming is that folks who want to have it look that perfect must devote a portion of their time nearly every other day to brushing the dog “to the skin” to keep the coat fluffy and mat free and giving baths as necessary, carhartt coats, to keep the coat clean.

Many “pet” owners elect to keep the coat short and trimmed for ease.
The Bichon Frize is very healthy. There are no genetic conditions known and except for keeping up to date with the inoculations there should be few vet visits. The Bichon learns tricks easily and loves to perfume them. It is a friendly and affectionate dog and loves to be a lap dog but also loves to play and is no stranger to begging for attention. The Bichon usually has a consistent temperament of gentleness, a clownish playful attitude, carhartt coats, and is affectionate to everyone it meets.

It is easy to see why this dog has become a favorite as a pet. It is small enough for elderly folks to hold in their lap, it is friendly and usually non aggressive in nature, so it is a safe dog for a family with children. The size is appropriate for apartment living and the intelligence of the breed is undeniable, the dog has been used historically as a circus dog to perform tricks and entertain the public. However, when allowed to, the Bichon can become spoiled and it would be well for the owner to remember that all dogs, regardless of their size, do need training and an occasional reminder of who is boss.

Unfortunately as a breed becomes more popular, it is also true that it can be “overbred” by unscrupulous breeders who are only out to put money in their pocket. When this happens it can be possible that poor temperament, carhartt coats, can be bred into a bloodline and sometimes this has happened with the Bichon, as it is becoming apparent that more and more of these little dogs are becoming “tyrants” of the household. Responsible owners will buy from responsible breeders and will take, carhartt coats, their little puppy to an obedience class.

If attention is paid at the beginning, the little puppy, carhartt coats, will grow into a great little dog rather than a spoiled rotten little brat.
Michael Russell
Your Independent guide to Dogs
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Russell

Our little girl has grown up so much over the past few months. Born June 30th, here’s a clip of her first bath narrated by yours truly.

We are all familiar with the saying, dog is man’s best friend,, dog leash, but that isn’t always the case. Sometimes our four-legged friends need a little help getting in line, and that’s where dog behavior training comes in. Anyone that owns a dog that is overly boisterous, chews, barks, or displays other undesirable behaviors can surely relate.

A well behaved dog, on the other hand, truly is man’s best friend. Dogs are a joy that offer companionship and loyalty that just can’t be found anywhere else. Many times dog owners attempt to train their canines on their own, which is fine, but it often leads to frustration.

That’s when we tend to blame our dogs for their misdeeds, but many times the fault lies with us. Sometimes we expect too much and do not go about teaching our pets in a way that will yield positive results. Dogs surely are intelligent animals but they cannot read our minds.

We must keep in mind that they are not deliberately trying to misbehave or be disobedient. An understanding must be established that is based on association and consistency. Dog leash training for instance, is an excellent way to begin the training process.

Training is a matter of association and discipline. In order to be effective we must show them the actions that we want them to take. Patience is of the utmost importance when it comes to dog behavior training. The fact of the matter is that our dogs very much want to please us.

In the end it’s all about communication. We suggest you visit xxx to learn all about how our pets take both verbal and physical cues from us. The last thing we want to do is confuse the dog by sending mixed signals. That is why learning the proper training techniques is absolutely essential.

And unless you have a service dog that needs to be trained to do specific tasks, all training is universal otherwise. Put another way, you really don’t have to be an expert to effectively teach dog behavior training. You do however, need to understand what does and does not work.

Does your dog jump or pull? Do you find that your dog takes you for a walk instead of the other way around? Do you find that children or seniors may have difficulty walking a rambunctious dog?

For these very reasons, there recently has been some significant innovation in dog leashes and dog walking. In addition to the retractable leash category, one of the fastest growing segments in leash innovation comes from shock absorbing leashes. These are leashes that absorb the shock of a jumping or pulling dog, so the stress is absorbed by the leash, and not by the handler or the dog.

Often times when a dog jumps or pulls, this puts considerable strain on the wrist, arm, and shoulder of the handler. If this is habitual, it can lead to neck or muscle problems. A negative effect of this is that it may discourage you from walking your 4 legged friend. Also, dogs are also susceptible to injuries caused by their jerking or pulling.

A solution to this is a shock absorbing leash. A considerable amount of tension is absorbed in the leash and the stress is not felt by the handler or the dog. This makes for a more comfortable and easier way to walk your dog.

In addition, the function of the shock absorption also can help teach a dog not to pull or jump. As the leash lengthens and becomes tauter, it sends a signal to the dog that he should let up and release the pulling. Over time, using a shock absorbing leash helps a dog walk more comfortably without the risk of injury.

These shock absorbing leashes are also great for children and seniors who would like to walk a dog more comfortably. When size, arthritis, or comfort becomes an issue, it is time to look to see what options are available.

However, keep in mind that not all shock absorbing leashes are the same. Many on the market are hollow rubber tubing and pose a risk of being chewed through or bitten. This can create an unsafe situation where a dog may be at risk if the leash breaks or rips. Others made from nylon, may not have the right “feel” to be as comfortable, dog leash, as it should be.

Dog training is very important for every dog whether professional or a pet, dog leash, . If you do not train your dog then you will face a problem for everything from a vet’s visit to a simple walk in the park. This way you will also spoil your relationship with your pet by constantly shouting at it. Dogs are excellent pets and most people enjoy having a dog as a pet and also call it to be a rewarding experience.

While training a dog you will use and need some basic equipment to train. There are several kinds like dog collar, dog leash, harness, muzzle and retracting leash and many more. The important thing is to buy exactly what you need and not try to own everything that is available. Some people are very particular on getting all kinds of things for their dogs including clothes and shoes, however a dog seriously does not care about it and does not even realize its importance as a matter of fact.

What kind of equipment should you buy depends a lot on the breed of dog you own to like a big dog or a small dog. However all dogs need two things for sure, one is the collar and the other is a leash. For different circumstances you will need different kinds.

A collar: Every dog needs a collar whether small or big because that is where you can hold your dog and also the collars display the license tag which is again a must for every dog to have. Buy a good collar in cloth or leather but something which has soft edges and fits your dog’s neck well. For a small dog buying a big collar is waste because it is going to be heavy on its neck so opt for a small cloth or leather collar which fits the neck well. Always maintain one and a half inch distance between your dog’s neck and the collar for your dog to be comfortable. For a big dog obviously you need to get a sturdy big collar and one that will last because big dogs will pull.

A leash: A leash is also a must for every dog and for smaller dogs you can buy a basic light weight leash because they do not pull and it is very easy to manage them. For the big dog a strong and sturdy leash is a must. It should be soft on your hands also because when your dog pulls hard the leash should not cut you.

Retractable leash: This is not quite required for small dogs because they are not actually confident by nature and will not typically run away from you but for big dogs on the contrary the retractable leash can be a boon. It is helpful while training, walking, playing and also keeping it tied at home. You can control the distance your dog can move around with this kind of a leash.

Muzzle: having a muzzle depends a lot on the psyche and the nature of your dog primarily. It also depends on the breed of dog you own. Whether short or a big breed some dogs are just bad tempered by nature and do not tolerate anyone other than their family members or masters.

Author: Brock Lorber
Source: articlecity.com

Your dog wears a coat of insulation, helping him stay cool in the summer and warm in the winter. His coat, carhartt coats, holds essential oils, carhartt coats, close to his skin, and protects it from scrapes and scratches. Its hollow hairs help him stay afloat so he can concentrate on swimming rather than treading.

Without daily maintenance, however, your dog can quickly become cheap transportation for burrs and other plant seeds. Parasites love to burrow in the warm, moist areas next to his skin, presenting a health hazard for you and your dog.

With a few simple steps, though, you can maintain the health of your dog’s coat without,, carhartt coats, carhartt coats, resorting to an expensive groomer.

As a natural part of their lives, dogs are skilled at self-grooming. They are taught by their mothers that grooming limits skin-borne diseases and parasites, carhartt coats, . Young muscles and bones benefit from the increased blood flow their massaging mothers stimulate. As they grow and become self-sufficient, they begin to groom themselves and become very successful at, carhartt coats, it.

When a dog is living in a home environment, however,, carhartt coats, they need some human help to maintain a healthy coat.

Brush your dog frequently using a brush with soft bristles and a flea comb. Use light pressure and always stroke with the coat’s grain. This collects shedding hair before it gets all over your furniture and clothes and eliminates matting before it becomes too snarled.

Long and thick coats fight a constant battle against snarls. Don’t use brute force to clear them; nobody likes to have their hair pulled, carhartt coats, .

Use water to soften caked fecal matter or mud and scissors or clippers if necessary on nasty tangles and burrs.

Many dogs get very anxious around brushes and scissors. Their fears can result in snarling and nipping, which is why many groomers resort to using sedatives. This does nothing to quell the unnatural fear for the next grooming session, however. A much better way is to take him for a long exercise session to remove all his nervous energy, and then put him in a calm state lying down.

Introduce him to the grooming instruments while he is in this calm state. Once he is through investigating them, you can begin to use them while keeping him calm and submissive.

Inspect your dog’s skin while you are brushing. Be alert for skin irritations, dry skin, fleas, ticks and any sign of infection. While you will probably need professional help for fungal or bacterial infections, other problems can be handled on your own.

The two major causes of dry, irritated skin are too much bathing and a lack of lipids in your dog’s diet.

Bathe your dog with shampoo as infrequently as possible. Also, mix in a teaspoon full of vegetable oil with his food. His coat will take on a healthy glow, and the oil will moisturize his skin. Chlorine-filled swimming pools often contribute to dry skin, however, swimming is great exercise and a lot of fun for your dog, so don’t cut it out entirely.

Regular application of flea and tick powder will help prevent you from having to deal with fleas and ticks. If you still find a tick, however, use tweezers to grasp the tick by the head.

Jerk straight out so the jaws come with the rest of the tick. Don’t squeeze the tick’s body or touch it with bare fingers. Wash your hands after handling the tick.

Excessive scratching and hair loss are two, carhartt coats, signs of flea, carhartt coats, infestation. Fleas don’t just stay on your dog however; they jump off and infest your house. Check the floors and baseboards for granules that resemble salt and pepper grains.

Toss the dog in the bath with plenty, carhartt coats, of dog shampoo.

Follow up with a breed-appropriate flea dip. Now comes the hard part – cleaning the house.

To clean the house you need to first get rid of the eggs and larvae. Vacuum all the carpets, including the baseboards, and all the upholstered, carhartt coats, furniture. Take the vacuum bag outside immediately and place it in a trash bin. Treat all carpeted and upholstered surfaces with specifically formulated insecticide to kill the adult fleas. Since the insecticides are toxic, you’ll want to keep your children and animals away from treated surfaces until it dries.

With regular grooming and attention, your dog’s coat will stay healthy and clean. That protects your dog, your family, your wallet, and your home.

Choosing the right dog bed for your furry family member is just as important as it would be selecting one for yourself. After all, this is the place where your pet will lounge, sleep and just hang out, so it needs be comfortable–that’s a given. But, there are plenty of other things to consider when choosing an appropriate pet bed. Ask yourself these questions:

1. How does your dog sleep and where?
2. Is your pet sensitive to heat or cold?
3. Is your dog older or have special needs?
4. Does your dog shed a lot of hair?
5.

Do you think the bed will be used as a chew toy?
6. Is your puppy still growing?

Using the answers to these important questions along with the helpful information below will help determine the perfect bed for your pet.

Special Needs and Lifestyle

Most people think about heavily padded or cushioned beds only for older, arthritic dogs, but these beds can also cushion the sore muscles of an active dog. Depending on the environment in which you live as well as your pet’s sensitivity to temperature, a heated bed (for drafty areas or arthritic dogs) or a cooling bed (great for dogs who are always hot and panting) would be a great asset.

For long-haired or double-coated dogs that shed a lot, dog beds made of a smooth fabric should be your first choice because fallen hair is much easier to remove from them. Avoid beds made of rougher materials that can make clean up a challenge. If a smooth fabric isn’t an option, be sure that the cover is machine washable.

Care

While your pet is concerned about comfort, you are most likely concerned about care. Choose a bed that is easy to clean with a cover that is machine washable. It’s also good to know where your dog is developmentally.

If your pet is still distinguishing the difference between acceptable chew toys and things that aren’t, like a dog bed, an inexpensive bed would be best until you’re confident he or she has grown out of it. However, some dogs never do. So, look for a sturdy, chew-resistant bed.

Shape

The easiest way to determine the shape that will be most comfortable for your pet is to observe how he or she sleeps. Try to match your dog’s natural sleeping preference. If your dog sleeps in a curled position, a round pillow bed, doughnut or nesting bed might be best.

A sprawled sleeper will prefer a rectangular bed, bumper, couch or cushioned mat. If your pet sleeps with a stuffed toy, a shoe or some other object under the head, then most likely your pet doesn’t want to miss a thing–even when asleep. Add a pet pillow or choose a lounger or couch-style bed with give a raised area to rest his head. For the pet who enjoys the closed-in, secure feeling of sleeping tucked away in a corner, choose a bed with raised sides or a cozy corner-shaped bed.

Size

While it might seem like a simple solution, measuring your dogs while in their natural sleep position is the first way to determine the right size.

Measure the diameter of your dog while curled up or the length of your dog while sprawled out. And, if the bed has sides, always use the manufacturer’s inside dimensions to select an appropriate size. For example, a bed with sides may have an outside measurement of 18″ and an inside measurement of 12″.

Just like buying clothes for your young children with enough room for them to grow, your puppy will need a little growing room, as well. Hold off on investing in an expensive dog bed that will only fit for a few months.

Try purchasing a smaller, interim one instead. Of course, you’ll also need to consider the area where it will be placed, such as in a corner, crate or a small room, and choose the most accommodating size. If different areas require different sizes or needs, you can also purchase several beds to use throughout the house.

Finally, once your pet’s needs are met, feel free to add in your personal style and choose a bed that complements your home’s décor. After all, your home doesn’t have to look like a doghouse just because your pet lives there.

Karen Sullen is a writer for Max and Mittens where you can buy dog beds and other dog supplies.

The America’s Favorite Animal Shelter contest is a chance for animal lovers everywhere to raise awareness of the need to adopt shelter and rescue animals while helping their favorite shelter win a donation. Our animal charity now has a page up, so please, if you have a moment, vote for us to help with much needed funds for shelters. We would really appreciate it, many animals can be cared for and it’s just something positive you can do to help make the world a better place. We all want to live in a better world, don’t we? I know I do!

Help Ruff HouZen Animal Rescue win $10,000 in America’s Favorite Animal Shelter Contest from Care2.com.

Vote for Ruff HouZen Animal Rescue

Just as important, THANK YOU for taking the time to participate. I sincerely mean that too.

Save-A-Stray!

It will soon be Halloween, Guy Fawkes Night, Diwali, then Christmas and New Year. Not forgetting private parties! So fireworks galore!

I like fireworks – unfortunately many dogs don’t!

One of my greyhounds isn’t bothered, but the other is frightened of them (and other loud noises). The dogs always come first.

One year we had fireworks going off very close to our house. They started very early and we were caught unawares. They lasted until quite late. Olive was fine, but poor Boris was terrified.

He curled up in his bed and SHOOK with fear.

I gave him Bach Rescue Remedy which helped him. He stopped shaking and his heart became quieter. We also had the TV on quite loud to drown out the noise.

He refused to eat until very late (well after the fireworks had finished).

The majority of dogs are frightened, and some are absolutely terrified by fireworks.

Dogs hearing is much more sensitive than ours, so the problem is magnified.

They are also very aware of preparations, so watch your dogs closely for signs of stress (see further down for a list)

Dogs and fireworks should be on different planets!

You can help your dog with Firework phobia and other loud noise fears.

This can be done with desensitisation and management methods.

So what can we do?

Walk your dog before the fireworks start – do not take them out after they have started – your dog needs to be settled in advance. Please don’t take them to a display – this will only make things worse. Make sure that he empties himself.
Feed your dog early, but don’t worry if food is refused.
Make a secure, safe place for your dog. This can be done by placing his bed behind a sofa. Being in a quiet, dark corner with familiar things is very comforting to a dog.

Make sure he cannot escape from the house. Be vigilant and careful with doors. Dogs think that the explosions are inside the house and will want to get outside to escape them! Keep his collar on with home details attached, just in case! Don’t let him out on his own.
Close windows doors, curtains. This will reduce noise levels and mask flashes. Play music. Classical music has been shown to have a calming effect. Or put the TV on loud.
Do NOT reward your dog – No treats, reassurance, or petting! It will reassure your pet if you ignore the noises.

Distraction. Play with your dog. This can be a good distraction. It can also help if there is a non-fearful companion animal with them.
I’ve used Bach Rescue Remedy on my dogs with some success. Give just before the noise starts! Repeat as per instructions on the bottle.
Other Herbal Remedies like Valerian (liquidor tablets) and Skullcap can help. Consult your vet if your dog is on medication.
Desensitisation. CDs are available which help to deal with the your dog’s fears.They are available for fireworks, thunder, and gunshots.

The CDs come with instructions – it is a gradual method of increasing noise level. It is important that your dog doesn’t show signs of fear during use.
DAP -dog appeasment pheromone. This is a plug-in diffuser and it has a calming effect. It is also available as a spray. Start using it before the fireworks start.
In very severe cases of fear, it could be worthwhile to consult your vet or a dog behavourist.
Look out for signs of stress (see list below)

The following are all symptoms of distress

trembling or shaking
restlessness or pacing
panting
whining
barking
hiding
destructiveness
attention seeking
trying to escape
messing or urinating in the house
refusing food
Please remember : DO NOT take your dog to a fireworks display.

This will NOT cure his fear, it will only make matters worse!

Boris the lad is frightened and curls up into a ball in his bed. He looks tiny and he is a big greyhound! He also refuses food. Boris knows well before we do when the fireworks are going to start. I always watch him closely, so I have early warning!

Olive the girl is very laid back. She stretches out on the couch and goes off to sleep!

Good luck with your dog!

http://dogs-a-z.blogspot.com/

Author: Sheryl Joy P. Ola๑o
Source: articleage.com

Fangs. Killer claws. Hisses, grrrs…and later, yelps. Who is not familiar with cat-dog combats? It’s a “hair-raising” party of limbs and tails and yes, the loser sheds most of the fur- mostly, the cat.

It was night time and I was in the living room reading a tear-jerker when I heard a throaty, prolonged and wavering wail. Instantly I dropped the book and rushed to the door with one thought in mind – my cat was under attack. The thought brought an ugly picture to my head. I feared an on-the-prowl Sparky or a hyperactive Caesar or worse, the Big Dogs on the Block (BDOB a.

k.a. askal) was circling my Khufu in anticipation of tearing her apart.

So you could just imagine the shock on my face when I caught Khufu chasing Sparky, a dog two times her size. A dog. My cat just chased a dog. I thought it only happens on TV.

“You were supposed to be helpless,” I scolded Khufu but actually I was torn between being proud of the cat and being afraid of it as it sat on its hind, licking its paws…Sparky completely forgotten.

But then my memory bank had retrieved from its archives a plausible explanation about what had transpired in the scene of crime.

Said dog seemed to have a phobia with cats for once upon a time it received a blow from a cat’s paw on the head. So I thought my cat was just plain lucky. Sparky would avert from anything that meows.

But then another weird night came and dogs were running for their tails. The militant cat had struck again.

Dogs. Not one, but two. Dogs- definitely not puppies. One was Caesar and the other was a BDOB- both bigger than Sparky. I was impressed.

Perhaps it would happen again, perhaps not. But I wouldn’t want my feline friend to make it a hobby or she’ll drive all the dogs away.

Here’s the norm: cats are to be chased by dogs. The poor cat must have gotten tired of running for her life that she decided to make a brave yet an unthinkable move to alter cat life in our dog-infested neighborhood.

It seems she has gathered up her tattered pride and charge, come what may, to make a statement in the name of the feline race. The statement would be: We cats may be soft, but we are not fragile.

How easy it is for us to run away from our fears or to give in to the unfairness of the bullies to avert the hassles and side effects of battle, having known not the possible victories we could achieve.

..dreams stay as mere dreams.

But fear is fear. If only we could just throw it out of the window and have it locked out from our minds. But fear is a part of our existence. It is a psychological battle, a tug-of-war between yes and no. For me, it is not something we bulldoze in a day, www.chase.com, . I remember how my cat used to sacrifice her food to the dogs and be rooted indoors. It took her time to gain the courage to go against the norm we thought could never be changed.

Have you ever experienced one of those rare moments when a, www.chase.com, thing or two just happen way beyond normal?
You learn things from cats….

Perhaps the passport to courage is to be sure of who we are, to believe, to act big no matter how small, like the cat that fought for its claim of territory and demand for respect with a personlity bigger than a dog.

We all have our own dogs to chase to turn our “impossible” into a, www.chase.com, badge we can proudly wear. As for me, I’m not done with mine yet.

Remember the time if you had alternate home afterwards a harder day at plan and how you acquainted if your dog baffled your face by way of welcome? Acquainted great, didn’t it? No admiration a dog is advised man’s best friend! So why not do something to accomplish it happy? Its time you bought some dog clothes for the bristling adulation of your life.

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You can aswell buy accessories like boots, tags, leashes, carriers, bathrobes, collars, raincoats, jackets and hair clips. Shopping online for dog clothes as they will acquiesce your dog’s covering to breath. Avoid affairs clothes for them that will accomplish them feel overheated and trapped. Cotton and nylon are the best options for dog clothes is simple and convenient. You don’t accept to abrade malls the accomplished day to acquisition the absolute dress for your online purchases is aswell actual safe with sites like Paypal and added online transaction sites.

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There are many different styles of dog training, and finding the one that works best for you is important for creating a dog that is a talented, loyal and faithful member of the family. All successful methods of dog training work to reinforce the relationship between dog and handler, and the foundation of any successful training program is getting the respect of the dog. Fortunately, dogs are wired by nature to seek out leaders, and to follow the direction of those leaders.

Both leash/collar training and reward training have been around for a very long time, and they have proven their effectiveness over time. The type of training that works best will vary from dog to dog, and from breed to breed. It is important to remember that each breed of dog has its own unique qualities, reinforced by hundreds of years of selective breeding.

The leash and training collar is the most basic piece of equipment used in training a dog. Using the lead and training collar properly is vital to successful dog training. The training collar is designed to apply a specific amount of pressure each time the leash is tightened. The amount of pressure put on the leash controls the amount of pressure placed on the training collar, and the pressure can be adjusted according to how the dog responds.

Of course personalities of individual dogs vary quite a bit, even within established breeds. You, as the owner of the dog, know better than anyone which style of dog training will work best, so it is important to work with the trainer you choose to achieve your goal of a willing, obedient and friendly dog.

Leash and collar training is the best way to accomplish many types of dog training, particularly in situations where the dog must have a high level of reliability. For instance, dogs that have an important job to do, such as rescue dogs, police dogs and guard dogs, generally benefit from leash and collar training.

The first part of training with collar and leash, of course, is to purchase a quality, well made training collar that will fit your dog properly. There are many types of training collars and leashes on the market. The most important thing is to choose one that is sturdy and well made. The last thing you want to do is chase your dog down after he has broken his collar.

The length of the collar should be approximately two inches longer than the circumference of the dogย’s neck. It is important to accurately measure the dogย’s neck using a measuring tape. In order to get an accurate measurement, you must make sure that the tape is not tight around the dogย’s neck.

In a collar and leash based dog training program, first the dog is taught a particular behavior, generally with the leash. After the dog has demonstrated that it understands the command, the leash is then used to correct the dog if it disobeys, or when it makes a mistake. The leash is the main form of controlling and communicating with the dog in leash and collar training.

When using leash and collar training, the dog must be trained to trust the handler and accept his or her directions without question. In order for the dog to be fully trained, the handler must demonstrate the ability to place the dog into a posture or position he or she does not want to take. This does not mean using force, but it does generally require some level of physical manipulation. This manipulation is most easily and safely done using the main tool of leash and collar training ย- the leash.

The well trained dog is one who will walk at his ownerย’s side on a loose lead, neither dropping behind nor charging ahead.

The well trained dog will also vary his pace to meet that of his handler. Under no circumstances should the handler be forced to change his or her pace to match that of the dog.

If the dog does begin to charge ahead, it is important to correct the dog promptly by giving a quick tug on the leash. This will give the dog a good reminder that he needs to change his pace. It is important to quickly relieve the pressure as soon as the dog responds. The training collar is designed to relieve pressure as soon as the leash is loosened.

Most dogs will immediately respond to corrections by a good, properly used training collar. If the dog does not respond as directed, it may be necessary to apply greater pressure. This can be especially true of large dogs or those who have preexisting behavior or control problems. If you are still unable to get a response from your dog, it is possible that you are using a training collar that is not large enough for your dog. If you think this may be the case, be sure to ask for expert advice before proceeding.

There are many different styles of dog training, and finding the
one that works best for you is important for creating a dog that
is a talented, loyal and faithful member of the family.

All successful methods of dog training work to reinforce the
relationship between dog and handler, and the foundation of any
successful training program is getting the respect of the dog.
Fortunately, dogs are wired by nature to seek out leaders, and
to follow the direction of those leaders.

Both leash/collar training and reward training have been around
for a very long time, and they have proven their effectiveness
over time. The type of training that works best will vary from
dog to dog, and from breed to breed. It is important to remember
that each breed of dog has its own unique qualities, reinforced
by hundreds of years of selective breeding.

The leash and training collar is the most basic piece of
equipment used in training a dog. Using the lead and training
collar properly is vital to successful dog training. The
training collar is designed to apply a specific amount of
pressure each time the leash is tightened. The amount of
pressure put on the leash controls the amount of pressure placed
on the training collar, and the pressure can be adjusted
according to how the dog responds.

Of course personalities of individual dogs vary quite a bit,
even within established breeds. You, as the owner of the dog,
know better than anyone which style of dog training will work
best, so it is important to work with the trainer you choose to
achieve your goal of a willing, obedient and friendly dog.

Leash and collar training is the best way to accomplish many
types of dog training, particularly in situations where the dog
must have a high level of reliability. For instance, dogs that
have an important job to do, such as rescue dogs, police dogs
and guard dogs, generally benefit from leash and collar training.

In leash and collar training, varying degrees of force can be
used, ranging from slight prompts with the lead to very harsh
corrections. The amount of correction used should be appropriate
to the situation, since using too much correction, or too
little, will be ineffective.

The first part of training with collar and leash, of course, is
to purchase a quality, well made training collar that will fit
your dog properly. There are many types of training collars and
leashes on the market. The most important thing is to choose one
that is sturdy and well made. The last thing you want to do is
chase your dog down after he has broken his collar.

The length of the collar should be approximately two inches
longer than the circumference of the dog’s neck. It is important
to accurately measure the dog’s neck using a measuring tape. In
order to get an accurate measurement, you must make sure that
the tape is not tight around the dog’s neck.

Most training collars come in even sizes, so you should round up
to the next size if your dog’s neck is an odd number. It is
important that the chain that attaches to the collar be placed
at the top of the dog’s neck. That is where the training collar
is designed to apply the best pressure.

The ability to apply varying degrees of pressure, and to relieve
that pressure instantly, is what makes a training collar such an
effective tool. It usually takes new users a little while to get
used to using the training collar, and some styles of training
collar require more finesse than others. If you are unsure which
collar to choose, be sure to ask a professional dog trainer, or
the management staff at your local pet store, for help.

In a collar and leash based dog training program, first the dog
is taught a particular behavior, generally with the leash. After
the dog has demonstrated that it understands the command, the
leash is then used to correct the dog if it disobeys, or when it
makes a mistake. The leash is the main form of controlling and
communicating with the dog in leash and collar training.

When using leash and collar training, the dog must be trained to
trust the handler and accept his or her directions without
question. In order for the dog to be fully trained, the handler
must demonstrate the ability to place the dog into a posture or
position he or she does not want to take. This does not mean
using force, but it does generally require some level of
physical manipulation. This manipulation is most easily and
safely done using the main tool of leash and collar training -
the leash.

The well trained dog is one who will walk at his owner’s side on
a loose lead, neither dropping behind nor charging ahead.

The well trained dog will also vary his pace to meet that of his
handler. Under no circumstances should the handler be forced to
change his or her pace to match that of the dog.

If the dog does begin to charge ahead, it is important to
correct the dog promptly by giving a quick tug on the leash.
This will give the dog a good reminder that he needs to change
his pace. It is important to quickly relieve the pressure as
soon as the dog responds. The training collar is designed to
relieve pressure as soon as the leash is loosened.

Most dogs will immediately respond to corrections by a good,
properly used training collar. If the dog does not respond as
directed, it may be necessary to apply greater pressure. This
can be especially true of large dogs or those who have
preexisting behavior or control problems. If you are still
unable to get a response from your dog, it is possible that you
are using a training collar that is not large enough for your
dog. If you think this may be the case, be sure to ask for
expert advice before proceeding.

It is important for every would be dog trainer to understand
that the leash is simply a tool. While the leash is an important
tool in this form of training, it is important for the dog
trainer to be able to eventually achieve the same results using
whatever tools are at hand.

Even when the only tools at hand are the owner’s body and skill,
the dog should be willing to obey. Creating a leader/follower
relationship between handler and dog is still very important,
and it is important to use the leash as a tool and not a crutch.
A properly trained dog should be willing to obey whether the
leash is present or not.

Find the title a bit hard to believe? Oh sure, you know that you canwalk more than one dog on a leash. It is the fun part you are doubting? Well rest assured, I do live up to my title in my daily dog walks, and I will attempt to give you exactly the info the title assures you of.

I currently have three dogs. I double dog leash two of them, my large boy of of fifty pounds and my medium size girl of 30 pounds. I would triple dog leash them but my smallergirl is a weenie gal of not quite twenty pounds and she would get overly jerked around by either of the others asthey are the ‘pullers’.

It’s not so much the weight that I like to keep as balanced as possible, it’s the personalities. Walks aremore pleasant whendogs of compatible personalities can walk together. My middle girl is the alpha. The big boy would go anywhere and do whatever she wants.

I am notpushing or sellingany specific brandof equipment.I can notknow your dog’s personalities and walking situations. Finding the right combinations of what coupler works best with what dog leashwill always be a personal fit. Don’t be afraid to mix and match dog leashes and couplers according to your dog’s personalities and walking situations. Suffice it to say, what I use is extremely affordable. Actually, I have three double dog leash ’systems’ I use for different situations, and what I always fall back on was the least expensive.

A leash coupler is a split leash or leash extension that has one line going to one dog, and one line going to the other dog in the shape of a V. This usually is in one piece with one line to each dog. However, some leash couplers are two straight separate leash ‘extensions’ and the apexof the V contains the ring that holds them both. Some find these handy asdifferent colors can bechangedabout, whereas most leash couplers (because they are one piece) can only be one color. They may also use the individual extensions to provide different lengths for different size dogs on the same coupler. Either way, whether one piece or two separate extensions, the clip of the leash goes into the end ring of the V. If this is confusing, think of the human as the joining of thedogs, closing theV.

Leash couplers can be made of material similar or identical to the leash itself. They range from nylon,or natural fibers such as cotton and hemp to force-inhibiting stretchy rubber tubing. Any of these will make aleash of your choice workas a two dog leash. You don’thave to have a special leash, unless you want one of course.

Anyone that’s almost had their arm ripped out of the socket by a sudden squirrel siting can tell you, shock absorbing is an important factor’. When walking more than one dog, each element is profoundly effected by actions of the other. Now adding a human, looking for shock absorbing factors in dog leashes and/or leash couplers is not a whim.

This stretchy element indouble dog leashes can come in a leash coupler alone. There are many leash couplers that have a stretchy element whether it’s of a fiber material or of a ‘rubbery’ sort. Some are even designed by a doctor to alleviate strain on your shoulder & back.

The two dog leashes I could find in storeslook like a long split leash. With these leash couplers, anan essential elementis the adjustment. Look for ease in adjusting the individual lengths to each dog. This will allow dogs of different sizes to walk together comfortably.

Somedog couplers are of the same length individually and have no adjustment to make. What makes these work is afreedom of movement with a stretch factor. Astretch factor can prevent the leash from dragging the ground.

There are also leashes with the couplers built right in. They areconstructedwith bothcontrol and’give’ in mind with their construction. They allow freedom of movement, then ’snap’ right back.This “one piece”, comes in handy in a ‘grab it and go’ situation and/or when your mind ponders “just where did I put that leash?”

No matter what doubledogleash system you choose, some elements are essential. All the clips attaching to one another need to “swivel”.The joint needs toturn all the way around, avoidingleash “tangle.”This helpscut down on the harshnessof movement that would be felt at a jerk.Also with certainleash couplers, dogs may cross each other with this swivel joint in action. This can be very important in individual exploring on a two dog leash. It also helps if you are walking another dog with the other hand.

With a bit of practice,walking two dogs on one leash is not difficult. Ittakes finding the right equipment suitable for all concerned, human and dogs and just practicing walking until it becomes second nature. Trust me, it will.

Determining what proper goldfish tanks should be like is every bit as important as determining what proper tropical fish tanks should be like. We often think of tropical fish as requiring special care, and that’s true. It’s also true that goldfish, if they are to remain healthy and live out their normal life spans, require their own special care.

Goldfish are often thought of as being short-lived fish. That is simply not true, as a goldfish typically has a life span in excess of 10 years. What is true is that when placed in something other than a proper tank, like a goldfish bowl, a goldfish may indeed be short lived.

A goldfish in a small bowl is unlikely to live for 10 years. Blame it on the small bowl, or the goldfish’s owner if you will. For one thing, because of its shape, the goldfish bowl does not provide a large water surface area, necessary in keeping the oxygen content in the water at a required level. In addition, a single goldfish requires quite a bit of water, about 20 gallons to be exact. You won’t find many 20-gallon goldfish bowls on the market and, if you have two goldfish, you’d better be looking at a 30-gallon bowl.

An aquarium style container is definitely what you need, unless of course you are going to keep the fish in an outdoor pond.

Even inexpensive common goldfish can be extremely attractive to look at, and deserve to be placed in an environment where they will thrive. Their availability and low cost should not diminish from their value as pets, and as ornamental fish. Some types, especially the more common types, can become quite large over time, require plenty of room to roam, plus they will create quite a bit of waste.

A 20 gallon tank for one fish is really the absolute minimum size that should be considered. Get a 55 gallon tank and 3 or 4 goldfish, and you can then sit back and enjoy watching them.

Of course goldfish tanks holding only goldfish and water aren’t much to look at, and aren’t good for the goldfish either. Since the goldfish is a cold water fish, you don’t usually need to worry about installing a water heater. You do need to install an air pump to provide oxygen, and a filter to keep the water clean enough for the fish.

You should also consider plenty of plant life, not only for appearance, and as a secondary though minor source of fish food, but also because plants can also assist in the filtering process. Goldfish are usually very fond of eating plants however, so plan on having to replace plants fairly often.

To keep the water at a sufficient quality you’ll want to be changing some out on a weekly basis. Note the use of the word “some”. You don’t need to completely empty and refill goldfish tanks every week.

For one thing, that’s not particularly good for the fish. What you want to be doing is removing as much waste as you can with each water change, and taking out and replacing only about a quarter of the water volume each time. One problem that can happen if you change all the water out (besides having to remove the fish in the process), is that significant differences in temperature between the old water and the new water can be extremely stressful to the goldfish. By taking out and replacing only a portion of the water at one time, temperature changes are minimized.

When you do settle upon a tank that is large enough, it is obviously going to be very heavy. Twenty-gallon tanks when filled, will contain 160 pounds of water. Add that to the weight of the empty tank, and you can see the need to have a very sturdy stand or piece of furniture to keep the tank on. The location of the tank is of importance as well. Keep the tank away from heat sources. Goldfish are not tropical fish. And keep the tank out of direct sunlight. Indirect light is best. Don’t keep the tank and fish in a darkened room for long, the goldfish will start to lose their characteristic colors! A lighted tank where the light is on no more than 8 to 10 hours a day is about right.

Fluorescent lights are often a good choice for hood or canopy lighting.

Goldfish are not simple-minded as some would believe, but are actually somewhat intelligent, and have a sense of curiosity. You can put plenty of things in goldfish tanks that the fish can swim through, around, or under, adding a little variety to their routine. Gravel on the bottom is almost a must, plus the fact that the fish seem to enjoy nosing around in the gravel. Just avoid things which may have sharp edges which could cause injuries to the fish.

While it may seem to be quite a huge enterprise for a few fish, large goldfish tanks are the price that must be paid if you plan on having healthy fish for a number of years.

For tips on types of begonias, rieger begonia, tuberous begonias, white roses, single white rose, meaning of roses and other information, visit the Gardening Central website.

Author: G. Metcalf
Source: articleage.com

When I had a Toy Poodle, I used a small beanie baby toy tied to
a twenty foot long cord to exercise him for at least ten minutes
at a time, twice a day. I’d throw it across the room and he’d
run after it to snatch it up, fueled by canine fantasies of
ripping it apart.

But he knew he wouldn’t be able to act out his warrior instincts
if he brought it back to me — which is why I had it tied to a
cord. As once he got hold of it, that was the only way I could
get it back, unless I wanted to chase him around under tables.

Most of the time I’d start yanking on the cord as soon as the
toy landed, and he’d have to pounce on it to keep it still long
enough to grab it in his mouth. But frequently, I’d be too quick
for him — and I was able to get it past his lightening fast
paws. Then I would pull the toy across the floor as fast as I
could reel the cord in, while he ran after it like a cat chasing
a mouse.

He’d usually lose those races, and would have to wait for me to
throw it again. But this way he knew the game wasn’t fixed, and
that it required genuine skill on his part in order for him to
‘win the prize’ — which made it all the more exciting for him.

When he was successful in keeping me from getting the toy past
him after it landed, he’d clamp down on it with as much force as
his Toy Poodle jaws would allow. Then he’d continually shake it
while I pulled the toy, and him, back to me.

He even ‘applied his brakes’ frequently during the process, and
played tug of war with me — quickly scooting backwards about
three feet whenever I allowed a little slack in the cord. This
was like reeling in an eight pound dogfish that was on steroids.
But after slowly dragging him across the floor to within arms
reach of me, he would suddenly release his alligator grip on the
toy and let me have it.

Then he immediately tensed up and assumed a position to spring
after it when I threw it again. But he watched it very intently
until he actually saw it fly past him, because he had been
fooled too many times in the past when I just pretended to throw
it.

During those occasions, he ran to the area where he was
expecting it to land, and would then look back at me with a
puzzled expression — wondering what had gone wrong. When he saw
me laughing and dangling the toy in front of me, he’d instantly
get a big grin on his face.

Then he’d come charging back at me
full speed in order to do a Toy Poodle version of a drop kick on
my knee.

But I’d usually throw the toy before he reached me — which
resulted in him slamming on his brakes, and then running back to
where he had just been. So he soon learned to wait by my side
until he was sure that I had really thrown it.

He never got tired of this game, and would have done it for
hours at a time if he had been able to coax me into playing with
him for that long. This daily tug of war was so entertaining for
me — I never got tired of it either.

As it was a lot like going
fishing every day, without any of the hassles or expense. Plus,
I was guaranteed to catch ‘a big one’ every time I ‘cast my line
out’. Another benefit was that I could reuse the same bait over
and over.

Whenever I walked towards the file cabinet that I initially kept
the toy on, he thought it was playtime and would start prancing
around and barking. To avoid disappointing him several times a
day with false alarms, I had to keep the toy stored inside an
out of the way cabinet when it wasn’t ‘in use’.

Needless to say, this is excellent exercise for indoor dogs, as
well, www.chase.com, as being great for their mental health. As it gives them a
fun activity to look forward to each day, etc. Thus it can only
serve to extend their life to a ripe old age if done on a daily
basis. It would also be a lot of fun for you!

So if your dog’s exercise routine consists of nothing more than
slow-paced back yard sniff patrols, you may want to give this
technique a try.

To save wear and tear on your arm, simply swing
the toy by the cord in a loop and release it — allowing the
momentum to carry it across the room.

If you have a lazy dog, you may need to tease him with the toy
first, to get him riled up enough to want doggy revenge. Simply
place it on top of his head, and ‘walk’ it across his back, etc.
Then when you finally throw it, he’ll be more motivated to run
after it so he can give it a good shaking.

Once he experiences the ‘thrill of the chase’ a few times, it
will likely become habit forming, and he’ll want to keep doing
it.

Unless he’s just not into chasing stuffed animals.
Ironically, as much fun as my dog had with this game, he wanted
absolutely nothing to do with ANY type of ball. Whenever I
rolled one past him, he would just glance at it for a second and
then ignore it. So whether your dog takes to this dogfishing
sport, www.chase.com, will undoubtedly depend on his personality.

Obviously, this exercise method wouldn’t be practical to use
with all dogs, since large dogs would probably win a tug of war
with most people.

The problem with the dog winning is that it
could create a top dog power struggle over who should roll onto
their back as “a sign of submission”. Meaning that your dog may
get the idea that he’s the new pack leader in your family.

It would also be a bad idea to play this game with an aggressive
breed of dog. Because if he gets loose, his canine brain may
kick into ‘game mode’ if he sees a jogger running by — which
could result in serious injuries for the jogger, as well as
criminal charges for you.

If your dog has a loose tooth, then the game is over before it
starts, due to excessive pressure from the toy causing him pain.
This would be a good cue for you to take your dog in for a
thorough teeth cleaning — as your veterinarian will be able to
pull any loose teeth that he finds during the procedure.

In fact, annual teeth cleanings/dental checkups are crucial for
the overall health of your dog. As a single loose tooth can
result in serious health problems due to bacteria getting into
the bloodstream — and can wind up, www.

chase.com, costing you a lot more than
preventative teeth cleanings would have cost. (Check out article
#35 on my Web site for some good information on canine
periodontal disease.)

Also, I never tried this dogfishing game on a carpeted floor, so
I have no idea what the results would be. It’s conceivable that
a thick carpet would give even a small dog a big advantage in a
tug of war. Which might allow an excessive amount of pressure to
be exerted on fragile bones, teeth, etc. So before pulling too
hard, you should consult your veterinarian to determine if this
activity would involve any risk for your particular dog.

Could have been…

Should have been…

Sweet Sixteen! Today!

Alas, all we have are memories. Great memories!

Jake misses you ~ because Jake misses the time he steals your share of the food bowl. haha!

I miss you because you were such a part of our family. Adaptable, malleable, and just one awesome ’people’ cat. Everyone who knew you, loved you. Except maybe the one that made you go away. I still think I know who made you go away. I have suspicion but not proof.

Oh Tom, you are totally missed!

And there is yet to be a blog page to honor you, oh sweet ol’ Tom!

In any case, Happy Birthday!

Author: Ken Charnely
Source: isnare.com

In the next few paragraphs, we will explore new ideas and thoughts that may help you achieve your goal and decide what is best for you when choosing toys for your cats.

Toys for girl cats and boys:

When the mouse is away, cats play. And cats have the tendency to both play hard and play soft. Toys are to cats the same as toys are to dogs. It helps fight the boredom experienced by these pets as well as gives our feline friends the opportunity to practice and use their natural inclination to chase and hunt for prey. It also gives the cat owner that great chance to play with their pets, an experience that will aid in bonding their relationship.

But what toys are best for cats? The following are tips and helpful advice to get that perfect toy for the cat owners perfect pets.

Play safe:

The good thing about cats is that they can play ball inside the house and the owners will never know it. Still, there may be things inside the house that cats could find attractive yet might actually endanger their health and safety. Houses must be cat-friendly. As much as possible, take away any string, yarn, needles, rubber bands or other objects that could easily be swallowed by cats. These things could be lethal to cats. Do not let them play with these articles no matter how cute they may appear to be.

Play soft:

Choose soft toys that can easily be machine-washed. It is best that the toys chosen to be played with by cats are also the toys marked as safe to be played with by children below three years old. Toys such as these usually contain fillings that are not hazardous. Also, avoid giving cats toys that are hard and rigid, these types do not appeal to them that much.

Know your cat, know their toy:

It is best that one also familiarize themselves with your cat. Doing so helps in ones selection of the kind of plaything that best serves the size of ones cat – the kind of activity the cat likes and its unique preferences. Know the environment in which the cat likes to spend its time the most.

Choose active toys:

Toys that are great to play with for cats are usually the round plastic ones (such as rings from shower curtains, plastic balls, golf balls, balls used in ping-pong) as these give cats the opportunity to chase and paw around. They could also carry these in their mouths, make sure though that these are big enough they cannot be swallowed but not so large that they cannot carry them in their mouths.

Choose active play:

Balls can be placed inside bath tubs filled with water. Watch as cats frolic and play on and around the toy. It is just as enjoyable to the cat as it is fun for the cat owner. Another added feature that could be placed on balls are bells. One not only sees how cats play, one could also listen and take pleasure in the playful sound
.
Another simple yet effective plaything for cats is a paper bag. Use paper bags that do not have handles. These bags are good for pouncing around. Cats hide in them too. As much as possible, avoid the plastic ones as cats have the tendency to chew these and they may eat the plastic. This is not good.

Toys with tails:

Cats like playing with soft toy animals -, www.chase.com, specially the ones that have tails. They either bite them, paw them or chase these little stuffed toys around. It is best if these toys are as big or as small as the cats playing them.

Toys with catnip:

Catnip is sometimes used as stuffing for toys that are soft. Putting catnip in such playthings make the toys more enjoyable to carry, kick and throw around. More importantly, it is safe for cats to chew on, roll around in, or eat.
It is okay for owners to place catnip on carpeted floors, or (to make clean-up easy) on towels. There are now catnip oils that can be placed on carpets, and they usually stay there. Cats detect these too. Although small cats, specifically kittens who are younger than six months have shown a certain kind of immunity to catnip.

All in all, it is best that cat owners define what kind of toy should be played by their cats. It is, www.chase.com, advisable that different kinds of toys be given on certain days, and that displaying all toys simultaneously may not be a, www.chase.com, good idea. Cats can easily tire of seeing the same fluffy toy animal again and again. Variety always works best. However if cats show a certain liking to a specific toy, let them play with it, or sleep with it – whichever they like. In closing, it will benefit you to seek out other resources on this topic if you feel that you don’t yet have a firm understanding of the subject matter.