Pets

Taking Care of a Small Dog Tips and Suggestions

2008-06-24T07:59:00.001-07:00

If you're taking care of a small dog, the basics are much the same care as we would dogs of larger sizes, basics such as food, water, shelter and good deal of love. But it's easier to prepare their meals since smaller portions are required and their smaller body size makes bathing and grooming easier, and the mess to clean up is smaller as well.

Food Tips For Taking Care Of A Small Dog

Dry food with small bits are the best choice for a smaller dog, because the bits are easier for them to bite and chew. Smaller dogs seem to have some difficulty with chewing larger bits of food since they have a smaller mouth. Their teeth can also break easier since their teeth are smaller than the teeth of larger dogs.

While taking care of a small dog, be sure to give them the appropriate portion of food, since some dogs will eat whatever food is in their bowl. Over eating can distend their stomachs and cause discomfort. One cup of food will usually suffice and provide all the nutrition they require.

Taking Care Of A Small Dog - Grooming Tips

Grooming basics are pretty much the same, regardless of the size. However, grooming a smaller dog is easier since it's easier to lift or turn them around. If your dog spends lots of time resting or you carry the dog around a lot, their nails should be trimmed more frequently. Their nails will wear down if your dog is more active or runs around a lot. The nails of larger dogs tend to wear down faster since they are heavier as well.

Another tip for taking care of a small dog is daily brushing. If you brush or groom them frequently, their hair doesn't tangle as much, so it makes the job quicker and easier. The brushing routine is pretty much the same as it is for larger dogs, but you should brush more gently. When choosing a brush or comb, you should choose brushes and combs of a smaller size. In other words, choose a size that best fits the size of your dog. Also choose a brush with softer bristles since these are also more comfortable for the dog, and they don't scratch the skin as much.

All in all, we can conclude that taking care of a small dog is a little different than the care afforded for larger dogs. One would think that a small dog is not as expensive since they don't eat so much food and so on, but the owners of smaller dogs tend to pamper them more, so they might end up spending more on them.

Ray Harris - http://www.bestdogcarepro.com If you would like to learn more about dog care, visit http://www.bestdogcarepro.com today.

Dogs Get High Blood Pressure Too!

2008-06-24T07:59:00.000-07:00

Could your dog have blood pressure problems

High blood pressure is now recognised around the world as a major health issue. Many millions of people every day take regular medication to control their blood pressure level. Others use diet, exercise, salt restriction and more to try to get their blood pressure reading into the normal range.

But what about pets? Does your dog have high blood pressure?

Vets are becoming increasingly aware of the problem of hypertension in domestic pets – and dogs seem particularly affected by it. Some vets now make a blood pressure check part of their normal routine examination, although it can sometimes be hard to work out what’s normal or not in your own pet’s case.

Your vet will certainly check a blood pressure reading if your dog has a condition which could affect the heart or blood pressure levels. These conditions include things like: heart disease, kidney disease, sudden onset of blindness, recent trauma, or other severe illness.

Rare causes of high blood pressure (or sometimes low blood pressure) in dogs are endocrine system diseases, tumors of the adrenal gland, some pet medications and some brain or nerve troubles.

It’s often easiest to check a dog’s blood pressure when it is under anesthesia –perhaps for an operation or for another investigation.

We’ve not yet reached the point we have in humans but there’s no doubt that blood pressure assessment is becoming more and more important in pet animals. Treatments are available and research trials are underway to see if treatment improves the health of your pet.

Time for a walk, maybe?

Garleton Hill is a family doctor in Scotland and a specialist in blood pressure treatment. He suffers from high blood pressure himself so has a true insiders view of the topic. Get more information regarding blood pressure.

Flea Control For Your Dogs

2008-06-24T07:58:00.001-07:00

Margie has this problem that she is itching to get rid of. Unfortunately, Margie can't do about it and literally, her itching is getting worse. Most of the time, everybody can observe her scratching her head, the back of her ears and while she's doing it, she's crying because of excruciating pain and sometimes, due to excessive scratching, some itchy areas of her body would begin to draw blood. For some, having some itchy skin disease is just a doctor's appointment away but not for Margie. You see, little cutie Marge is a Maltese. Fortunately, for Margie, she has an owner who is very concerned with her health and the first thing that her best friend can do for her is to find a flea control for dogs.

A flea outbreak can be of great concern, not just for faithful little Margie but for her human friends as well. When a flea bites her owners, it can also cause inflammation of their skin, not to mention the embarrassment it can cause whenever there are visitors around.

When you try to control the onslaught of dog fleas around your house, you have to bear in mind that you could be falling into two snares. You could only get rid of the adult fleas rather than the eggs and the larvae when you buy flea control products and this means, you can still be suffering from fleas and not only that, you expose yourself and your family to chemicals.

The second mistake that pet owners will commit is that they tend just to treat their pets for fleas. This kind of task could be facing a blank wall and a fruitless one because for every flea on your dog, there could be hundreds or even thousands more around the house, which at any given time will be ready & prepared to repopulate your pet. Remember, fleas or ticks or lice can multiply in a great number in just a short period of time, maybe even seconds.

That is why, it's best that when you treat your pets with fleas, you also need and it is imperative that you also treat every room in the house to make sure of a flea-free humble abode.

So, if you have dogs and they have fleas, what would be the best way to get rid of this "jumping and flying" problem? The first best way for you to do is observe your buddy. See if he scratches more than ever before. Don't wait for the back of his ears or any areas of his body draw blood because of constant itching.

See to it that he also gets a regular bath and cleaning and it's also best that you should make him or her wear a dog collar.

Furthermore, before you go and find some flea control for dogs, you also have to observe clean surroundings in your home. Have your house cleaned regularly especially during the summer months when the chances of an outbreak increase significantly.

About The Author : Paul Kramer can help you find solution for your pet meds needs. For discount pet medications needs get his free advice from his pet meds website at http://www.callpetmeds.com/

How to Find a Chihuahua Breeder

2008-06-24T07:58:00.000-07:00

If you like Chihuahuas and have determined that a puppy is what you would like, you won't have any problems locating a Chihuahua breeder in order to buy the puppy from. Nevertheless, while looking for a puppy you may also come across a few breeders who don't take the trouble to breed the Chihuahuas in the proper manner. Shop around when you are looking for Chihuahua breeders and try and ask accurate questions. A few guidelines are available that you can pursue and will help you to establish whether the breeder is in fact breeding his animals in a responsible manner, and also make sure that you acquire a puppy that's good tempered, attractive and more importantly, healthy.

Do not rush when buying a Chihuahua and make sure you are sure about what you are doing, because they can live for over eighteen years, so it would definitely be a long commitment. Find a puppy that's bred carefully and is healthy, to avoid possible genetic problems resulting in defects or disease.

There are lots of ways you can make sure that the breeder you have selected practices proper Chihuahua breeding procedures. You can check with national or state Chihuahua clubs as they have lists of highly regarded breeders in your region. Your local vet could have names of first-class Chihuahua breeders and even friends or family with Chihuahuas could point you the right way. Some magazines could have listings inside for Chihuahua breeders, and you should check the local pet supply store for these magazines.

Why not go online to look for Chihuahua breeders? By locating a breeder in your region, you could arrange for a visit to check out the place and dogs for yourself. Finding a decent Chihuahua breeder was the first stage. The second stage would be to ensure that the breeder you've selected practices Chihuahua breeding responsibly. Do this first by interviewing the prospective breeder about a few of his procedures in relation to his dogs. A breeder who is responsible will vet his dogs against any type of hereditary problems such as eye diseases, which can often be found in the Chihuahuas breed.

If the breeder owns dogs that may have been tested positive for these symptoms in the past, they shouldn't have been used at any stage in the breeding procedure. All good breeders will allow you to see one or both of the puppy's parents, that way you will be able to see the dog's appearance and temperament.

The area which breeding takes place must be clean, and all the puppies should have a clean appearance and look healthy. The breeder should also show interest about where the puppy is going to be homed, and not just be interested in making a profit. By following these simple guidelines, the likelihood of finding a breeder who is responsible in the breeding of Chihuahuas, are good.

This article is brought to you by Chihuahua-Information.com. Visit our site for Chihuahua Information and learn how to choose a chihuahua breeder, as well as chihuahua training tips.

Dog Training - How to Help a Dog That Urinates When Company Comes Over

2008-06-23T07:56:00.000-07:00

One of the main reasons for this behavior problem is because of how we greet our dogs. The dog is usually excited that company is there and when we greet we are bending over the dog. If you think about it from the dog's point of view the dog is looking up at the person, the guest is towering over the dog. This body posture can intimidate a submissive dog which triggers the urination.

It's important for you or your guests to keep the greeting very low-key. When your dog gets excited your dog has a much more difficult time controlling his bodily functions.

Pay close attention to your body language. Don't lean over your dog. Squat down so you are not bending over your dog, this way you can greet your dog without triggering the submissive urination.

Have treats close to the front door when you come in. This way you can grab some or your guests can. When you greet your dog you can toss the treats a few feet in front of your dog. This will get your dog to focus on the treats and not so much on your greeting. You don't want to give your dog the treat from your hand because you will be bending over your dog.

Once your dog calms a little have your guests come in and sit down. This way your dog will be able to come over and greet your guests without them standing over your dog.

Most dogs calm down a few minutes after you come home or your guests arrive. You want to try and get your dog to calm as quickly as possible.

Dogs that have this problem are usually a little fearful. Don't yell or scream when this behavior occurs. It will only make it worse. Try to build your dogs confidence a little. This can be done through positive training and agility training. Training your dog in agility can do a lot to develop confidence.

How important is a well trained dog worth to you? Do you want your dog to stop jumping, come when called, walk on leash and more? Eric Letendre created the ultimate, easy to follow dog training ebook "101 Ways To Improve Your Dog's Behavior." Complete with dog training videos, step by step instructions and more. Best of all you can get it free! Get it here => http://amazingdogtrainingman.com

Siberian Husky Potty Training - Get it Right

2008-06-23T07:55:00.000-07:00

Siberian Husky potty training is a task that can be handled with ease even if you have never done it before. Just as with any other breed, there needs to be a lot of attention and forethought given before diving into any type of training just as any of the dog training books would tell you. You must consider your living and work arrangements. If you are home a lot and have a nice safe yard, going potty outside is probably best for the animal and for your home.

But, if you are not able to get around a lot, live in an apartment with no real yard to call your own, or even if you work a lot, you may want to consider allowing your new little friend to go potty somewhere safe in the home. This is to make sure that your dog is given the opportunity to relieve him or herself if the need arises. You don't want accidents on your new carpet and your dog does want to please you so with a little special attention paid to Siberian Husky potty training you will be on the right track.

When you have thought about all of the things that happen within your daily life, you may have decided that your dog going potty inside makes a lot more sense for your situation. Once you have made that choice, I suggest going out and purchasing some of the scented puppy pee pads. These pads are excellent to use in Siberian Husky potty training as they are scented in order to attract the dog.

A good place to start is wherever you notice that your puppy is more prone to having their mistakes. Even if this is not the location you want the pee pad, by placing it there, you are sure to grab their attention. Once your little friend begins to use the pad, slowly move the pad in the direction of where you want it to be. Everyday move it a little closer to your chosen area and eventually your Husky will be going exactly where you want him or her to go.

After a lot of though and consideration, you may have come to the decision that your Siberian Husky potty training needs to be done outside. Ways that many trainers and other professionals will suggest is to crate train your dog. Whenever you have to leave for any period of time whether it is for a few minutes or a few hours, place your pup in the crate.

As soon as you arrive home and go to bring the puppy out of the crate, take him or her right outside so they can go potty. It is important to keep them outside with you until they do go potty and once they do you want to make sure that they know you are very pleased. The best way to go about getting your point across is by giving them a lot of praise as all your dog wants is to make you happen. Soon, after enough time and consistency on your part, your dog will be able to understand that the yard and only the yard is the place to use the potty.

Andrew Preston has extensive knowledge and love towards this breed and therefore is an excellent source for information on Siberian Husky potty training. Siberian Husky training is all around not as hard as one may think but as with any other breed, Potty training can be frustrating if the right steps are not taken. Even dog training books will agree that Siberian Husky potty training does not have to be something that feels like a chore.

Tips For You on Trying to Train That Puppy!

2008-06-23T07:53:00.000-07:00

Hello There Fellow Dog Lover!

I know by reading this article you are looking for some good tips and ideas for training that cute puppy of yours. Well you have come to the right article! I'll begin with some basics.

1. You really should start as early as you can. Just like a new born child, you may not notice but they learn a lot about the world and how some functions work in the very early stages of their life. So it is imperative that you be able to commit yourself early. Yes it can and probably will be hard. You could easily lose a 'consistency of training' battle to the cuteness of a puppy, but you have to start early and be consistent. You will see me telling you this a lot but BE CONSISTANT!

2. Try to see the world through the puppies' eyes. By that I mean a "Pack Mentality". The dog has to see you as the 'Pack Leader' if he or she does not then that could lead to behavior difficulties' and unwillingness to cooperate. Now this does not mean Yelling at the dog or treating it like trash, or doing the biggest mistake people make, hitting the dog. This is a huge problem; it can cause the dog to be afraid of you. That is not the way you want to teach your puppy to behave. DO NOT use a 'Fear' technique.

3. Use a reward system. You should implement a reward system. Something like when you are trying to teach your puppy a trick, task or behavior, you should reward it with a great deal of affection and a small treat whenever a task is undertaken correctly. Then in time you can fade out the treat but always leave the affection. Remember when things may get rough and the probably will never stop trying or stop caring, you are the best person for the job. You will be greatly rewarded with a lifetime bond between you and your puppy.

4. Don't set the bar too high, because doing this can bring you down if something does not happen right away. This type of thing takes time and a lot of effort. Hang in there and stick it out, because YOU CAN DO THIS! I believe in you just as you should believe.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read this article. I wish you the best of luck

click on these links to help you further: http://darrell420.bezoogle.com/pp/dog-training and http://d-factor.blogspot.com

Eight Interesting Pet Poodle Facts

2008-06-23T07:52:00.000-07:00

Poodles are one of Americas favorite dog breeds and it's no surprise as they are intelligent, lively and loving pets. While most of us associate Poodles with the smaller, Toy version, you may be surprised to know that there are 3 different sizes. Here are some poodle facts you might find interesting:

The American Kennel Club sanctions three varieties of Poodles. The largest is the Standard, which reaches over 15 inches at the top of the shoulders. The Miniature is next in size and fully-grown will reach 10 inches at the top of the shoulders. The smallest is the Toy Poodle, who will weigh in at 6 to 8 pounds and be under 10 inches at the shoulder.

But there are even smaller than Toy Poodles, the Tiny Toy and Teacup Poodles. These two varieties are becoming popular pets although their size variation is not recognized by the AKC. The Tiny Toy only weighs about 4 to 6 pounds while the Teacup is the lightest that only weighs 2 to 4 pounds.

One of the most important benefits of owning a poodle is that they don't shed and are hypoallergenic, which makes them the perfect pet for those with allergies. Another one of the interesting Poodle facts is that they don't have the strong odor often associated with other breeds.

Poodles are one of the oldest breeds and have been the most popular in America since the 1960's. They were part of ancient history as illustrated by the Greek and Roman coins carved with dogs that resemble Poodles. This breed was recognized by the AKC in 1890.

Poodles were popular since the 1500's in Russia, France and Germany. The name poodle can be traced back to the German Pudel which is short for Pudel that means "splashing dog". This breed was very useful in Germany because they were used for hunting and are great water retrievers. They are so popular in France so much so that they are its national dog. Among the 3 recognized poodle sizes, the standard poodle is the oldest.

Poodles have hair which can range from coarse to soft, and because of this you can give your Poodle a variety of clips or cuts. While the show cut is the most recognizable, Poodles can also sport a continental clip, a puppy clip, an English Saddle Clip or a pet clip. Their hair can also be corded like a Puli or Komondor.

Poodles are an intelligent, spunky, and high energy breed of dog. They love to interact with their humans as much as possible. Poodles need challenging toys and activities that keep them from being bored. Poodles are good protectors and field dogs. Potty training a poodle is easier than most other breed due to their quick learning skills.

A healthy poodle will tend to have a long lifespan. Typically a toy will live to 17 years while a miniature will live about 14 years and a standard poodle will go about 11 1/2 years.

For more interesting Poodle facts, visit http://www.petpoodlefacts.com where you can learn more about the Poodle and sign up for our free email course full of dog care and training tips.

Fitted Sheets For Dog Beds is a New Concept That Will Keep Your Dogs Bed Clean and Comfortable

2008-06-22T07:50:00.002-07:00

There are 73 million dogs in America. More than 25% of dog owners have 2 dogs. Today's dog owners spare no expense for the comfort of their family pet. They spend millions of dollars on new pampering products flooding the upscale pet supply market.

One of the newest pampering products on the market are Doggysheets, fitted sheets for dog beds. This is the ultimate luxury for today's family pet. Now you don't have to worry about keeping your dog's bed clean, just change the sheets. Dog beds are hard to keep clean, they have dirty paw prints, food stains, spit and fur. Now you can just change the sheets as you change regular bedding. Just remove them and throw them in the wash. They are machine washable and dry able. Use them like regular dog bed covers without the hassle of fighting with heavy fabrics and zippers. They are also good for use in dog crates, which are hard to keep clean. Just place over the crate pad and tie with the adjustable straps for a tight fit. These sheets made of 100% cotton.

Many dogs don't do well in warm weather and often overheat in the summer. This product will keep their beds cool and comfortable. Warm flannel sheets will keep the pet warm all winter long. This product will make it easier to care for you sick or injured pet as well. The sheets will also keep the bed clean and sterile for a pet who has had a recent surgery or during birthing. Have multiple sheets on hand, they come in many colors, prints and various sizes to fit most dog beds. Today's dog owners will love the ease and convenience of this new product.

Chris Dias

Natural Healing For Pets - 3 Tips For a Healthy Dog

2008-06-22T07:50:00.001-07:00

What Happened to Jambo

2008-06-22T07:50:00.000-07:00

The year was 2003, month of September, when Shirley, Jambo and I drove to Alpine, CA from Portland, OR. We stopped one night at a motel that welcomed dogs.

Jambo, as usual, was a hit with everyone. Such a gentleman; going potty on command and where directed, always staying by my side, on or off leash, no problem in the room , a bark only if someone actually knocked on the door.

Bouviers don't shed; instead you will find small clumps of hair where they have scratched the undercoat which is easily picked up and not a problem with housekeeping personnel.

Where did he eat? Usually on the pavement of a market parking lot or outside our motel room. It seemed easier to just buy fresh chicken instead of freezing and thawing on the road. We always had bottled water available.

We arrived in Alpine, CA. to visit my baby sister in the afternoon of the second day. Maggie has two cats which Jambo ignored. Later that evening, Jambo and I walked to a market about 2-3 blocks away to get some coffee.

He was on a short (15") leash. When we arrived at the store, I put Jambo in a down/stay position, one that had worked for years. I quickly picked up a small can of coffee and was waiting in line to pay when I heard some kids noisily laughing outside.

Not more than 3 minutes later I went outside. NO JAMBO! I ran through the parking lot, calling him in a loud, frantic voice, but there was no sign of Jambo. Up and down the streets I ran like a crazy man calling my friend. Exhausted from all this running and calling, I returned to the area to find Jambo's body near the curb on the other side of the street.

No blood, just Jambo lying peacefully. I picked him up and attempted mouth to nose/mouth, but there was no response. I cried, bawled would be a better word, cussing myself for not using a longer leash so he could by tied up outside.

A short while later the police showed up. Then an off duty deputy arrived, it was his 17 year old daughter that hit Jambo. She was terribly upset, she wasn't to blame but it still bothered her. The deputy went home to bring a small trailer; while I held Jambo, saying my goodbyes. We took Jambo to a veterinary clinic.

Walking into that pet clinic, carrying Jambo was so hard. Leaving him there alone was even more difficult. Talking with others I pieced together what happened. The laughing kids tried to grab Jambo's leash, he wouldn't hurt them so he just ran and they chased after him. His run ended as he almost crossed the busy street.

Perhaps I will be able to forgive myself someday, having Bliss around has been a blessing but she can't entirely fill Jambo's spot. He was so good with his down/stay! He waited outside many, many times with absolutely no problems.

It took only this one problem, only this one time, now he remains on the mantle and in our hearts.

I belonged to a Bouvier network and when my friends learned about Jambo's demise, the word went out. Offers to get me another Bouvier came from New Zealand, Australia, and Canada; up and down the East coast, Texas, New Mexico, California, Washington and Idaho.

Shirley and I drove to Idaho where we met a wonderful lady, Jay Campion, on Halloween Day of 2003. Jay had called me saying a friend who was a psychic, had told her she could see Bliss lying at the feet of an elderly gentleman.

Bliss and I took a walk together, she then jumped in our car and off to the motel we went. She was a bit nervous but the night passed without incident. She ate kibble Jay had been feeding her and off to Portland we went!

Bliss is now 8 years old, yes you can usually see her lying at my feet. She has been a great help in my grief over Jambo.

I feel so stupid, still grieving. Maggie is the only remaining member of my birth family. Why didn't I grieve this way about Mother, Dad and my other Sister? Is it because Jambo was with me 24/7? I doubt I will ever understand.

What is Your Dog's Future?

2008-06-22T07:49:00.001-07:00

Before we approach the subject of what is your dog's future, let us read a little about horoscopes...

We are pretty confident that a great majority of folks in the United States, if not the world, like to read their daily, weekly, or monthly horoscopes. Whether it is read on-line, or in the local newspaper, or in a weekly tabloid magazine, it is always interesting to see what the future holds for that day, week, or month!

Of course, the great majority of folks (you and I included), are most likely to NEVER admit we even look at our horoscopes. There is a slight stigma, or taboo, attached to anything remotely related to horoscopes, or astrology. or Tarot cards, or palm reading, or any type of future forecasting. In this day and age, a huge emphasis is placed on practicality and technology; everywhere you look, there are signs: IPods, digital cameras and video recorders, internet, computers, plasma and LCD televisions, hybrid automobiles, etc. that it is very difficult to separate oneself from something that is actually tangible, let alone sophisticated, and take a leap in incredulity to believe in a future plan.

People equate it to winning a lottery. You don't know if you are going to win, yet you enter it anyway, By the same token, you don't know what your future holds - yet you read your horoscope regularly.

A lot of horoscopes - primarily the generic types that are printed in newspapers, magazines and on-line - are very basic and overly simplistic. They are written this way so that the reader can interpret the horoscope in so many various ways to interpret so many various things. While this piques the reader's interest, it doesn't tell us nearly anything about our individual future.

There is a reason why people go to palm readers or Tarot card readers to have their personalized horoscope or future analyzed. They pay upwards of $30, $40, $75, or even $100 to have their futures mapped. Remember our former President, Ronald Reagan? His wife, Nancy would not make any important or major decisions without consulting an astrologer, even with matters dealing with the actual Presidency!

There are a lot of options available for humans to determine their futures...But what about dogs? There are millions and millions of dog owners all over the world, and almost every single one of the dogs are considered an important member of the family.

At this point, you are asking yourself: "What does this have to do with my dog's future?" Well, at http://www.PawScopes.com we have created a incredibly unique software program that allows any dog owner to find out his or her dog's future, and not just the one or two sentences that are on numerous vanilla sites. We actually take the info about your specific dog's name, breed, and date of birth to create an individual PawScope that is tailored especially for your canine...and for no other.

To find out what the future holds in store for your furry best friend...go to http://www.PawScopes.com now!

They Laughed When I Said I Was Going to Train My Dog

2008-06-22T07:49:00.000-07:00

Some dog owners are totally convinced that they will not be able to train their dog. They have been told by friends, family, and sometimes even trainers that their dog is un-trainable.

I don't believe it and I always make it clear to my clients that the principles of behavior apply to all living creatures; that a dog may be a little difficult to train because of his breed, but every dog can learn sit, down, stand, stay, walk on leash and come when called.

A few years back a young guy with a Bassett hound walked into my office. He informed me that he had told his friends that he was going to train his hound. He added that they all cracked up laughing and told him that his dog was beyond training, that basset hounds can't be trained.

"We'll show them," I said.

We then started a program that anyone could follow to train their dog. The program started by having the Bassett hound develop a good bond with his owner. I told him to spend the next week hiking with his dog, playing, and having no one else feed his dog.

At the same time we began to have him develop the relationship by establishing leadership. The leadership exercises consisted of having the basset hound do sit stays for all meals. The owner was to control all the games; he was to have his dog move if he was in his way.

His dog was also required to make eye contact with him before he could get anything that he wanted. He was to get eye contact before he gave his dog a toy, food, or praise.

We started by teaching his dog a solid down stay command. We continued working on that command until his dog could do a five minute down stay. This helped establish leadership and attention.

As the training continued we eventually trained his dog to come when called off-leash and to walk on a loose leash. We also taught his dog a few tricks. The Bassett hound learned to play dead, roll over, and speak.

Within a few weeks the Bassett hound was doing an excellent job with his obedience. The owner informed me that his friends were amazed at how well his dog was doing with his obedience and that he could do tricks.

How important is a well trained dog worth to you? Do you want your dog to stop jumping, come when called, walk on leash and more? Eric Letendre created the ultimate, easy to follow dog training ebook "101 Ways To Improve Your Dog's Behavior." Complete with dog training videos, step by step instructions and more. Best of all you can get it free! Get it here => http://amazingdogtrainingman.com

Reading With Jambo

2008-06-21T07:47:00.002-07:00

Elementary children are a delight to be with, so reading with Jambo encouraged children to love reading- (Jambo means "hello" in Swahili).

How did I begin "reading with children"? Jambo and I went to local elementary schools and I spoke with the principal, then completed the paperwork for a police check of my background and showed Jambo's papers; then arranged a one day per week, two to three hour sessions with four elementary schools.

Upon arriving at each school we checked at the office to see which classroom would be our treat for the day.

Jambo and I would enter the classroom, going to the back where there was usually a chair for me and a rug where Jambo and 4-6 children at a time would sit.

Jambo and Milwaukee Elementary School had a huge article in Portland's largest paper with photos of Jambo working with some of these elementary children.

Kids would then take their turn reading with Jambo, petting him all the while.

Gentle? Oh my YES! He knew who was good and who was bad. Kids adored him! Jambo sang for and with the children. I don't think we ever left a class room without at least one song.

Jambo was a Bouvier des Flandres, a breed not for everyone but one with so many wonderful qualities. Bouviers have a background of police work, farmer's all around helpers, guide dogs, keeping watch over cattle at night and pulling a cart to the market during the day.

One Bouvier was able to keep a pack of wolves at bay though frequent bouts with those animals led the farmers into lopping ears and tail to give wolves less to grab.

Jambo was trained in both protection and therapy. He usually walked tightly by my left knee off leash, stopping when I paused, in the sit position then proceeding when I started again. It was awesome to watch how he would sometimes walk backwards while watching an oncoming man. Yes he always had my back.

Jambo loved to sing so much in fact, it got to the point where I couldn't even begin to hum, sing or whistle without him immediately joining in, even at home, walking or in the car.

Dog health wasn't an issue with him. He ate raw chicken primarily. His total vet bills I am sure were less than $150 during the 7 years we were together - most of that was to run Titers to show he didn't need more shots.

My love of reading has long been a passion - and it was my goal to pass this passion on to those kids. Oh the huge number of cards, notes and posters given to thank Jambo and me for helping them learn to love reading!

Oh how I miss my Jambo!

Herman Adcox
http://www.young-4-ever.com

Training an Adult Dog - Is it Ever Possible?

2008-06-21T07:47:00.001-07:00

When you talk about dog training, usually you imagine training younger dogs. However, older dogs still need to be trained; especially if they have received no prior training prior to you bring them home.

Many people follow the saying "You can't teach an old dog new tricks". They simply leave the dog to do whatever it likes as they feel that it would be too much of a process to change the behavior. However it is possible to teach an older dog new tricks, it just requires a little more patience than it would with a younger dog.

Why it is more difficult to Train an Older Dog

The main reason it is more difficult to train an older dog is because they are used to doing things a specific way. The longer the dog has been behaving a certain way, the longer it will take for you to change that behavior. The same can be said of humans. When you have been doing something for so long, it becomes a strong part of your routine. Changing can be tough and that is exactly what it is like for older dogs. They get confused because they are suddenly being told that what they have done all of their lives is wrong.

However while it may be more difficult training an older dog, it is still possible. The techniques are the same as what you would use to train a younger dog; you just need to be a little more patient and persistent.

Housetraining an Older Dog

It is important that each time the dog has an accident indoors that you clean it up right away. This is because if the dog smells the accident again, it is likely to go to the toilet in the same area. Completely clean the home to ensure that there is no smell left over. Then once the house is clean, it is up to you to take notice of when the dog will need to relieve themselves.

Usually an adult dog will need to relieve themselves first thing in the morning, last thing at night and every hour or two throughout the day. That is just while they get used to their new surroundings. Once they have learned that they are to relieve themselves outdoors you should find that they tell you when they need to go out by going to the door or by coming to you and whining.

Other Training

If the dog is housetrained then there may be other training that is required. Do they know basic commands? Commands such as "Sit", "Down" and "Stay" all come in extremely handy in everyday situations.

Training an older dog these commands will not always be easy. However you just need to follow the same methods as you would with a younger dog. For sit when you give the command you can use a treat to make it easier. Hold the treat in your hand and close your fingers around it. Allow the dog to sniff the treat and as you say "Sit" raise your hand up above the dogs head. This usually causes the dog to sit down. If it doesn't, you can use your other hand to gently push down the dog's bottom as you repeat the command. As soon as they do, give them the treat and praise them. You will need to repeat this exercise quite a few times before the dog will realize what you are asking them to do.

The main thing that you need to remember with older dogs is that they can learn, you just have to be a little more patient and understanding with them. As long as you persist with the commands and you commit to training every day, you can teach an older dog how to behave. So if you are looking to train your older dog, just be patient and persistent and you will get the results that you are looking for.

Go to http://www.InternationalKennel.com for your new puppy, or call us at 516-794-PUPS for more information on how you can get your registered purebred bred for quality, temperament, and trainability. The International Kennel Club has brought happiness and joy with its pure bred selection of puppies to Long Island residents since 1979.

Dog Houses - Perfect For Keeping Your Pooch Protected From the Elements

2008-06-21T07:47:00.000-07:00

Your dog, he likes to spend a lot of time outside. So, to ensure that he is protected from the hot sun or the cold weather, just turn to fabulous dog houses. One would be a great way to give him shelter from the elements.

What makes dog houses such a great spot for your dog to retreat to when he's outside is their design, and there are actually a lot of different ones to suite almost every sized dog's needs. For example, maybe you have a big dog, well, then you can get a standard one that looks like a house, but is large in size to accommodate is big frame.

Or, maybe you have a few smaller dogs and you really want them to bask in luxury when they are outside. Then, a great option for those lucky dogs would be an extravagant selection that is not only one story, but two featuring a top level with a walk out patio. If they don't like to share their space, you can even get ones that have two different, separated areas that have their own openings.

These are just some of the choices that are available because there are many other dog houses as well. Like, those that are also two levels with balcony areas, others that have air conditioners and heaters built right into them, and some that are designed to look like modern, everyday homes. Each would be a great option for your pet.

Okay, so maybe dog houses aren't what you're looking for, for your furry companion because he doesn't spend that much time outside. If that is the case, there are many dog furniture options that can help him feel comfortable in your home. For instance, maybe your pooch likes to sleep on your bed, but you need a break from that from time to time. To solve the problem, just purchase a dog bed for your pooch. You can get ones that even look like real human furniture, but it's just scaled down to match their smaller size. In addition to the dog beds, some other furniture you could purchase for your dog includes indoor dog houses and you could even get him his own customized blanket.

An easy way to check out the dog houses and other furniture that you could purchase for your pet is by going online and doing your shopping there. In a matter of minutes you can browse through what all the online stores have to offer, making it easy to find deals and the best prices. Your selections will even be shipped to your home, so no wasting gas on a trip to the store.

If you want to treat your dog to a great place to get out of the weather when he's outdoors, then dog houses are exactly what you've been looking for. Get one for your pooch today so he can be protected from the elements tomorrow and many years to come after that.

Author Jennifer Akre is an owner of a wide variety of online specialty shops like http://www.simplydogsupplies.com that offer both items and information on how you can easily furnish and decorate your space. Whether it's your living, bedroom, or even your deck or patio, there are many tips you can use to make those spots both functional and beautiful. Today, she offers advice on how to create a fabulous pet area by using durable and fun dog supplies to ensure your furry friend's comfort.

Finding Inexpensive Stylish Dog Beds is Easier Than You Think

2008-06-21T07:46:00.001-07:00

Having a pet can be the most expensive bill you have. There are many things that go into owning a pet several of which come with steep costs. A good example of this is the medical bills your pet incurs. Why have this stop you from owning a pet when there are many ways where you can save some money and reduce the cost of owning a pet. A good example of this is your pet's dog bed. They can be cheap as well as expensive and you usually get what you pay for but that's not always the case.

There are many online dealers and discount stores available to you where you can purchase your pets bed for a low price. Many of these places have a discount rack and if you catch them at the right time they might also have sales which you can take advantage of. A lot of these beds that make it to the sales rack are just old models that the store wishes to get out of stock so that they can add their new products. It doesn't mean in any way that this bed is of less quality or of lower standards than any other bed. All it means is that it is a model that isn't made anymore or a model that doesn't sell very well and the retailer wants to remove it from stock. This wish can be a great advantage to you because they usually apply great discounts to these items.

Another place where you can get a lower price is buying a bed without some sort of frame. The frame isn't necessary to have your pet sleep in it. It could be anything from a simple yet comfortable mattress to a orthopedic bed that supports your pet.

Let's not get too carried away though. You don't want to sacrifice your pets comfort and health to save a few bucks. When you buy any bed always make sure it is of high standards and that it will be comfortable for your pet to sleep in. Make sure that there aren't any rips on it and that it is clean and of high quality. If it's not then it will just be another waste of money because your pet will not even want to sleep in it.

This is always a challenge you face when buying something for your pet but with the right research and detective work you can ensure that your pet will love every single second he can get in his brand new dog bed. More importantly he will love you that much more for getting him something to sleep in and something that is very comfortable as well.

This author lives in Flemington, NJ with her husband and 5 month old daughter and is an expert contributing author for a luxury elevated dog feeders boutique offering variety of dog beds and orthopedic dog beds. This author and DogBedSupplies are also dedicated to providing valuable and informative articles on pet health, dog training, crate training, puppy breeds and more.

Homemade Dog Food

2008-06-21T07:46:00.000-07:00

Since many of us do not like to put our trust into dog foods that are manufactured to provide our pets with sustenance, then we may be forced to give them homemade dog food. However, to many people, this seems like a difficult task; but don't worry, it really is easier than you may think.

Initially, it is important to remember that you can feed your pet a healthy homemade diet on a budget. It is not necessary to spend a great deal of money. Dogs do not require a gourmet meal every night of the week.

Dogs are extremely happy to eat such things as chicken and rice. Because dogs do require a source of carbohydrates, then it is important not to feed them only meat as a homemade dog food. It is also imperative that you avoid giving your dog certain ingredients such as, onions, garlic, grapes, and chocolate, as these can be particularly dangerous for your dog.

Listed below is a homemade dog food recipe that is simple and easy to prepare.

Basic Chicken, Rice, and Oats

Ingredients:

One whole chicken
Half a bag of wild brown rice
One cup of oats

Method:

Boil the chicken and rice together, and when the chicken is cooked add the oats. This will feed an average sized dog for approximately three days. Remember only to feed your dog with the chicken meat, not the bones.

Another recipe that dogs absolutely adore is Dog Liver Cookies. Again it is a simple recipe to prepare.

• Liver Cookies

Ingredients:

Half a cup of dry milk
Half a cup of wheat germ
One teaspoon of honey
3 1/3 oz jar of strained liver baby food

Method:

Mix the dry milk and wheat germ together, and add the honey on the top. Add the strained liver baby food and mix well. Form the mixture into balls and place them onto a lightly greased cookie sheet and flatten them with a fork. Bake them for 8 to 10 minutes on a medium setting in the oven. Once they are cooked the consistency of the cookies should be like fudge.

Once the dog cookies have cooled, they should be stored in an airtight container. They will remain fresh for 3 to 5 days.

Because many of us see our dogs as being like our children, they are a very important part of the family. Consequently, why would you want to feed them commercial dog food when you have no idea what ingredients are contained within them. Homemade dog food really is the best option for you canine friend.

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Dog Medication - Adverse Reactions to Watch Out For When Using NSAIDs

2008-06-20T07:45:00.002-07:00

In recent years there has been a tremendous increase in the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for use in dogs for pain relief after surgery or for dogs with joint problems.

Like all drugs, these NSAIDs carry a risk of side effects, or adverse reactions. Most are mild, but some may be very serious resulting in permanent damage or even death, especially if they are not used according to the directions on the label.

Stephen F. Sundlof, D.V.M., Ph.D., who is the director of the Food & Drug Administration's Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM) stated: "It's important for pet owners to be aware of the risks and benefits of all drugs, including NSAIDs, so that they can make informed decisions about their pets' health care. Owners who give their dog NSAIDs need to know the side effects to watch for that indicate their pet needs medical attention."

Vomiting, lethargy, loss of appetite, depression, and diarrhea are the most common side effects. The more serious adverse effects include problems such as ulcers, gastrointestinal bleeding, kidney damage, perforations and liver problems.

Michele Sharkey, D.V.M., in the Center for Veterinary Medicine's Office of New Animal Drug Evaluation says "The side effects of NSAIDs are very well known and very well documented, but this information is not always getting to the pet owner. If the pet owner can recognize a possible reaction, stop the medication, and get veterinary help, it could mean the difference between a good outcome and a disaster."

Steps You Can Take To Protect Your Dog From Adverse Drug Reactions

Ask Questions - Ask the vet about the risks, benefits, and side effects of all medications. Do not hesitate to ask questions about the possible side effects or signs you should be watching for when treating your dog.

Tell All - Be sure to tell the vet your dog's symptoms and any medications that you have used, including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements, vitamins and any flea control products. Combining certain medications could harm your dog.

Read the Client Information Sheet - You should receive a "Client Information Sheet" with every prescription. These are summaries that explain the results to expect, what to discuss with the veterinarian before giving the drug to your dog, possible side effects to watch for, along with other important information. If your veterinarian can't provide the Client Information Sheet, you can print it from the CVM's Web site or by calling the drug companies toll-free number.

Get the Recommended Tests - Testing is particularly important with long-term use to identify any problems and monitor how well the dog is tolerating the drug.

Work With The Vet to Find the Best NSAID - Many choices are available, and sometimes, the process of finding the best one can mean changing the prescription.

If There is a Bad Reaction Stop Medication and Call the Vet - If you suspect an adverse reaction, stop administering the drug and contact your veterinarian right away.

Side effects to watch for include: A decrease or increase in the dog's appetite, yellowing of the gums, skin, or whites of eyes, vomiting, seizure, lack of coordination, changes in bowel movements (such as diarrhea or black, tarry, or bloody stools), behavior changes (such as decreased or increased activity level or aggression), changes in drinking habits, changes in urination habits (such as frequency, color, or smell), changes in skin (scabs, redness or scratching).

Not all possible side effects are included on the Client Information Sheet or label. Contact your veterinarian immediately if you have any questions about your dog's medication. Something that starts out as a minor problem can rapidly progress to an emergency.

Report All Bad Reactions - Adverse experiences with NSAIDs should be reported to the FDA's Center for Veterinary Medicine, Division of Surveillance, HFV-210, 7519 Standish Place, Rockville, MD 20855, (888) FDA-VETS (332-8387)

For additional information about protecting your dog's health and wellness visit http://www.PetAwareness.org, a site dedicated to your pet's health and welfare.

Fleas - Blood Suckers in Your Dogs World

2008-06-20T07:45:00.001-07:00

You ever notice your dog laying around and scratching. Now it could be that he is trying to brush his own coat, or perhaps he just has an itch that needs scratching. Than again, he may be trying to fight off an invasion of blood sucking fleas. These miniature vampires don't wait till dark to strike; they are the all day and all night type. To make matters worse, if you dog happens to gobble one down, the fights not over, this adversary continues the fight from the inside leading to a nasty case of the worms.

Now, if you're not quite sure if it's a flea invasion or not, there is a simple way to find out. Visit your nearest pet supply store and pick up a dog comb. Run it through your dog's hair, all over, until you are satisfied that he is flea free. Now, if you happen to pull out some dirt, don't just wash the comb and exclaim your dog needs a bath. Put that dirt on a paper towel and you just might be surprised to find out, it is a reddish color, a group of blood sucking fleas.

If you have found fleas, what do you do?

Depending on how bad the flea invasion is, and how far it has spread through your home, will play a great deal in your decision making process. You can always talk to your vet and give him all the information you have on the situation. He or she can advise you on what to do from that point. If you choose not to use your vet, than you must decide what kind of products that you want to use to combat these tiny blood suckers on your own.

If you decide to use the normal chemicals or sprays on the market, pay heed. Be careful how you use that stuff on your dog. You want to keep it away from his face and scrotum area. These are very sensitive areas for your dog. If he has an allergic reaction, that could be worse then the flea's.

Some dog owners like to use natural products, such as garlic and menthol. You have to make that choice. There are also flea powders and tablets on the market. They may not kill those blood suckers, but there won't be any new little blood suckers running around. The most important aspect to take into consideration is, by using the powder and tablets; you won't be using the toxic chemicals found in sprays and shampoos. Do what you have to do to protect you, your family and your dog.

If you're interested in getting a more detailed look at Dog Parasites Symptoms, including a variety of information on dog breeds, take a look at http://www.AtoZDogBreeds.com.

Dog Training - Start With the Owner Then the Dog

2008-06-20T07:45:00.000-07:00

Since you are reading this article I will assume that you have pets and have some sort of problem. There are many problems that you may encounter with your pet that you may find hard to deal with and that you might not know why or where they came from.

For example, I have encountered many owners with pets that didn't know what to do. One such owner has a pet that has a phobia of cars. This phobia was so terrible that every time he would hear or see a car he would begin frantically spinning and running after them. That is something scary when you are alone with your pet and you can't seem to get a handle on this problem.

In a basic sense your pet reacts just the same as you react but with different physical responses. He senses how and what you feel and those anxieties manifest themselves in different ways based on the different personalities of people's pets. Sometimes this is hard to understand but I find it to be 100% true. For example, I have a personal friend that asked me to try and help one of her friends deal with her pet that will start to bark insanely at anyone that even thinks about setting foot in her home. His barking isn't a bark that came from a dog trying to protect his master or his home. This was the bark of a scared dog that fed of the insecurities of his owner. The best thing about training animals is the fact that very little of it involves training the dog and most of it involves training the owners.

Dogs feed off of every emotion that you could possibly feel. You might not realize this but they can feel everything you feel and it affects them. This woman, let's call her Susan, was insecure about letting people into her home and that only fed and nurtured her pets insecure behavior. By showing her that she needed to be firm yet gentle with her pet, Susan began to change her behavior. She became more secure with herself and more secure with her pet. That in itself showed with his behavior. When he becomes unstable, she checks him and snaps him into reality. That keeps him in check and shows him that she is the leader and he needs to follow and obey her commands.

Just by training and showing a person how to act cool and collected with their pet, you are able to retrain a pet that has otherwise become unstable. It matters more that you put out a calm and positive energy and that will go a long way to show your pet that you are the leader of his pack.

This author lives in Flemington, NJ with her husband and 5 month old daughter and is an expert contributing author for a luxury elevated dog feeders boutique offering variety of dog beds and orthopedic dog beds. This author and DogBedSupplies are also dedicated to providing valuable and informative articles on pet health, dog training, crate training, puppy breeds and more.

Golden Retriever Adoption and Training

2008-06-20T07:44:00.000-07:00

My Dog Training Experience

Making the choice to adopt a golden retriever has definitely made my life more interesting. I remember the very first day we met at the pet store. The attraction was irresistible and the connection unbreakable. Twenty-five adorable pups vying for my attention but a liter of goldens melted my heart.

A male golden was chubby as well as energetic. He seemed to be the most playful. In fact my family and I had to literally tear ourselves away from the chubby energetic pup who insisted on following us to the door. After socializing with the pups, we went home to discuss whether or not to adopt. We knew that inviting a pet into our home was a serious commitment. An hour later we returned to the pet store excited about our decision to make a golden a new member of our family.

The very next day when I packed my children off to school, the reality that I bared the weightier part of the commitment to care for our new six week old pup suddenly dawned on me. He had allergies which made him sick, he needed to be housebroken, and we definitely couldn't keep him locked up in an easy to clean area forever. In addition he terrorized my seven year old. Let's face it I needed to take action. I realized that I knew nothing about the breed that I had purchased. I had questions. I needed answers.

Learning to train myself on effective dog training

First I began talking to owners/lovers of golden retrievers. Then a friend let me borrow a guide to Golden Retrievers manual. Later that evening, my golden promptly took a destructive bite out of one of the books. I definitely needed help. Equipped with such titles as: "How I Trained My Dog In One Evening" , Dog Food Secrets, Kingdom Of Pets : SitStayFetch , Golden Retriever Training , The Golden Retriever Book and The Golden Retriever Guide, I became knowledgeable about the proper diet and disposition of my pet and most importantly I learned about the power of positive reinforcement in behavior modification. Today, my golden is a little over 4 years of age and is successfully well adjusted to home life. He is of course housebroken and has about ten skillful tricks in his repertoire.

Well this is my golden retriever dog training success story. Check out reviews of the materials I used in the dog training process.

Enjoy.

Patrick Dennis
Dog Lover and OwnerBroomfield, CO

Gourmet Dog Biscuits

2008-06-19T07:44:00.000-07:00

There is nothing that you can do to provide your dog with a healthier and happier life that is as good as feeding your dog food with natural and organic ingredients. Remember that there are lots of things in regular and mainstream dog food that actually will hurt your dog more than help your dog.

Dog foods with a high percentage of corn, for instance, are hurtful to your dog's digestive system, and dog foods that have meat meal might contain things like claws or talons or feathers, all of which can harm your dog. Dog foods that are not all natural will have chemicals and other preservatives that might make your dog sick, and at the very least will not allow him to live the type of life that he should be living.

There are lots of ways that you can make sure your dog lives the life that he is intended to live. Making him his own special home made gourmet dog biscuits can do just that. You can provide him with treats that make him healthy and make him happy.

In order to make basic dog treats, you should first gather a large bowl and your ingredients. In the bowl, mix together 3 ½ cups of unbleached flour with 2 cups whole wheat flower, and 1 cup cornmeal. Also add 1½ cups of skim milk powder.

Now, you will need 1 tablespoon or package of dry yeast, and 3 ½ cups of lukewarm chick or meat broth.

Allow the yeast to dissolve in the chicken or meat broth. If you have very rich broth, the treats will taste better for your dog. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes, and then add in the flour mixture that you made earlier.

This should make a dough, which you can then roll out until it is about ¼ of an inch thick. Then, you can cut them into shapes, and brush the biscuits with an egg wash. You can bake them for about 45 minutes in an oven that is set to 300 degrees. After that, turn off the oven, but leave the biscuits in it overnight so that they will get hard.

Another great recipe is for beefy biscuits. You should mix in a medium sized bowl 2 cups of whole wheat or all purpose flour, 1 cup cornmeal, ¼ cup wheat germ, 2 teaspoons of beef bouillon powder, and ½ teaspoon of yeast extract.

After you have mixed them, add 1 large egg, 1 tablespoon of cooking oil, and 1 cup of hot water. You should stir all of the ingredients together and roll out the dough. Create your biscuits and then bake them on an ungreased cooking sheet for about 2 hours at 275%. They should end up very hard, but let them stand overnight so that they will be the right texture for your dog.

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The Many Different Types of Dog Collars and Their Uses

2008-06-19T07:43:00.002-07:00

Dog collars speak a lot about fashion! Collars are worn by dogs to serve the purpose of training, identification, and walking. The right collar on the right dog can make a strong statement of fashion and choose wisely for your dog. Have a look at these different collar types and decide which one suits your dog the best.

1. Head Collars: Head collars or halters resemble muzzles albeit with a different purpose. These halters act more like harnesses for the head and are intended to help train a dog to walk on a leash and heel. If the dog pulls on the leash the halter will cause the head to turn and leaves the dog feeling a bit unnatural and thus deter the behaviour. These collars help discourage pulling. Head halters should not be left on unattended dog or dogs on a very long lead.

2. Break-Away Collars: Used for daily use these collars have a special feature that can prevent choking. They can still be used on a leash for walking. If the leash becomes caught on something the collar breaks away. However be sure that your dog's name is on the collar along with your contact details. If the leash is hooked on to both loops then the dog can be walked without the risk of collar breaks.

3. Daily Collars: One's personal style can be expressed with a variety of everyday collars. Collars with metal buckles or quick release clasps are available in a variety of materials, colors and styles. Many people prefer buckle collars for stronger dogs, as the quick release clasps are generally less sturdy. Rolled leather collars are durable and less likely to cause hair loss or parting.

4. Chain-Slip Collars: Also called as choke chains these are generally reserved for training only. Use chain-slip collars with caution and never leave it on your dog unattended. When walking the dog on a leash and these collars, a quick tug on the leash will cause a closing effect on the dog's neck thus restraining the dog.

5. Metal-Prong Collars: Highly effective for strong, stubborn dogs with a tendency to tug at the leash, these collars do look ungainly. They are also known as pinch collars and are very useful during training. Use with caution and never leave on a dog unattended.

6. Martingale Collars: Also known as Greyhound collars or limited slip collars, they help prevent dogs from slipping out of the collars while on a leash. A slight tug will tighten the collar without complete closure of the neck. Made of Nylon and similar materials they are available in several bright colors and are particularly useful on sighthounds though they can be used for any of the other breeds.

7. Harnesses: These are designed to place over the dog's chest and abdomen crossing over on the back. A leash can be attached on top of the harness. These are more suitable for dogs that have a tendency to pull as they do not cause pressure over the neck. These are basically ideal for dogs with medical problems in the neck and airway.

8. Dog-Show collars: The Martingale leads are a particularly useful dog show collar. They have a collar portion that slips over the head and tightens when the leash is pulled.

Read more about pet care, pet care supplies and general articles on pet care visit http://bestpetproducts.blogspot.com

Stop Your Puppy Biting in Several Easy Steps

2008-06-19T07:43:00.001-07:00

Many puppies have a problem with biting. Gentle biting is normal in the animal world, often as a sign of affection, so it is only natural for a puppy to bite like this. The most important thing is to teach the puppy from an early age not to bite, and the best way to do this is to be firm with the canine immediately after the bite has happened. You can't explain to your dog that what it did five minutes ago was wrong, and trying to tell a dog off even a short period after the event can cause confusion and won't help train the puppy.

You should start trying to deter your dog from biting by using a keyword. Most people use no, said firmly and quickly after the bite. If this does not work you may have to try tapping your dog on the nose with a short stick, not hard enough to hurt, but enough to let it know it was wrong. Try not to tap your dog on the face with your hand as it may end up thinking it is being told off whenever you go to stroke it in the future. If the dog still does not respond to these methods, firmer techniques may have to be used. You should never try and scare your puppy though, as yo don't want a nervous dog later in life.

Make sure your dog always knows who is leader of the pack. Remember that dogs are social animals, and must be taught what is socially acceptable from a young age.

For a more in depth guide to all aspects of dog training, have a look at dog training ebook

Richard Cross is owner and webmaster of Dogsandyou.co.uk

Dog Breeds - Which Are Better For Watch Dogs

2008-06-19T07:43:00.000-07:00

Dog Breeds differ with different characteristics that are strong with each breed. For example, not all dogs are good for hunting. Not all dogs are good for home companionship. Likewise, not all dogs breeds are good for watch dogs. Did you know their is a difference between a watch dog and an guard dog? A watch dog will bark to alert the owners of an intruder. It is also an attempt to scare off intruders. This is were the usefulness of an watch dog stops. A guard dog will do the same as a watch dog and bark, but the guard dog will take it a little further. A guard dog might be trained to restrain or attack intruders. The guard dog is often large and strong enough to attack and drive away a predator. But, often times guard dogs are simply trained to restrain an intruder with his owner's guidance. Be careful of your local laws as a guard dog could get you in trouble if it does attack someone.

If your looking for a guard dog here are three dog breeds that I would recommend.

1. Rottweilers - This dog started as just a farm dog but over the years of breeding they have developed into very strong guard dogs. Rottweilers are sometimes good around children so make sure they are well trained and acclimated to an environment for children.

2. German Shepards - Very strong breed that has been breeded just for a guard dog role. Germain shepards are not for inexperienced owners and should not be around children.

3. Doberman Pinscher - Another very strong breed. Doberman Pinschers were also breed just for the role of a guard dog. They are very aggressive and dominant of their surroundings. Once again this breed is not for inexperienced owners and should be handled with care.

As for watch dogs you have a lot of choices. Here are 3 of my best choices for watch dogs.

1. French bulldog - The French bulldog in not a great barker, but it will certainly alert the family to approaching people. A natural guardian, the Frenchie is devoted its master.

2. Boston terrier - Small, muscular and compact, the Boston terrier is one of the few truly American breeds. They are gentle, friendly dogs that are protective of family and home. Most have a good bark to alert people when strangers approach.

3. Chihuahua - The Chihuahua is a small dog with a big bark. It will bark vigorously, as if they are trying to make up for being just 6 to 9 inches tall and weighing under 5 pounds. They make sure you know when someone's approaching the house.

Their are many more choices of watch dogs to choose from but these are my best choices.

For information on training your dog Visit dog training equipment for your training needs. Also check out Training Your Dog.

How to Choose a Suitable Flea Treatment For Dogs

2008-06-19T07:42:00.000-07:00

Are you a Dog Owner? Having problem with fleas and have no idea as to what flea treatment for dogs to choose from the wide varieties of flea control products available?

If this is you, then the following article will definitely be of help to you!

Spring and summer is the time where dog owners are busiest. April showers bring May flowers but springtime weather also brings the onslaught of insects and parasites, including fleas.

For many dog owners, flea treatments for their dogs are a necessary nuisance.

Fleas are hardy pest that can survive well in a variety of environment. With one flea, they can multiple into millions of off springs making it a daunting and uphill task in trying to get rid of them completely.

Fleas can cause harm to dogs. For dogs that are sensitive to flea bites, they may end up having a mild skin irritation or in severe cases, they may develop a severe allergic reaction resulting in baldness, intense itch and inflammation throughout their body.

Fleas feed on blood on dogs and hence may cause anemia and eventual death of your dog if left untreated.

To make matter worse, there are currently a lot of dog flea remedies available in the market. We have the flea comb, flea sprays, natural products, and topical spot-on solutions and even oral growth regulator or "birth control" pills for the fleas. With such a wide choice of products, it's no doubt dog owners are having problem in choosing the right one for their dogs.

An important point to take note of is that all these flea control products are not the same.They have varying levels of effectiveness and kill different flea stages i.e. the eggs, larvae, and adults. One may be effective against the adult fleas but is simply harmless to the eggs or larvae. Using one may not be effective and very often, you may need a combination of these products to effectively get rid of the fleas.

Your choice of a flea treatment medicine for your dog is very important. It may determine your success or failure in your battle against these pesky fleas.

"Flea Treatment For Pets" provide details on the different types of flea treatment for dogs and how you can learn to choose a suitable and effective one for your dog.

Calling Ann a Flea expert is not an exaggeration. Up keeping an animal shelter with 150 cats and dogs, she deals with the problem of fleas infestation all the time. "Flea Control" is a comprehensive, information packed website where she shares her experience on using effective flea treatment products in getting rid of fleas completely.

Finding a Safe, Well Managed Dog Kennel

2008-06-18T07:42:00.001-07:00

Many people have heard the horror stories of leaving a beloved puppy or dog at a kennels while on holiday, only to return to find the dog has changed personality irreversibly. This is a very rare occurrence, but there are things you should do before trusting any kennel with your pet. The vast majority of kennels look after their dogs with great care, although like any industry there are always some exceptions.

Before you make any decisions the first thing you should do is ask around your friends who have dogs who they have used in the past. You know you can trust their recommendations, and if they have used the kennel recently you can be fairly sure the standards wont have changed that much. Ask them how their dog behaved once they got it home, and whether it looked well fed and healthy.

If you can't get any recommendations off friends, the internet should be your next step. Have a search for kennels in your area and see what people are saying about them. Have they had any bad reviews? Are they overpriced? You can often find reviews of kennels on the internet and they can be very revealing.

Once you've found your kennel ask to be shown around where your dog will be kept. See how happy the other dogs look, and what the living conditions are like. If you don't feel comfortable leaving your pet there then you wont be able to relax on holiday, so make sure you choose the right kennel.

Would you like to train your dog like a professional and eliminate the lucky dip of putting your dog in a kennel? Get your dog training ebook.

The Many Types of Dog Leashes and Their Uses

2008-06-18T07:42:00.000-07:00

Dog care is not complete without knowledge of dog leashes. Leashes are essential for training as well as everyday purpose. Here's a brief information on the various types of dog leashes.

1. Standard Leashes: These leashes are for basic training and everyday training. Typically they are 4-8 feet in length and a 6 feet one is ideal. These leashes are available in leather, nylon and other similar materials. If your dog chews on the leash then standard leashes made of chain are ideal for these doggies.

2. Retractable Leashes: These leashes contain a Nylon band or cord that are typically up to 26 feet in length and can be retracted into a plastic case with a handle. The leash can be locked into place at any desired length. This is akin to a measuring tape. These leashes are especially useful for those dogs that need a bit of space to wander around but yet need to be kept under leash. These leashes should be used only after the dog has been trained to walk on a standard leash. There is a real danger of the dog getting entangled or the dog getting into difficult situations with this leash, especially on an untrained dog.

3. Adjustable Leashes: Similar to the standard leashes, these leashes have several loops along the length of the leash that enables clasping or shortening of the leash according to the situation. The various lengths of leash are especially useful while training. These leashes are especially useful when briefly tethering a dog to a pole or similar object. Do not leave a tethered dog unattended.

4. Martingale Leads: These are all-in-one collars and leashes. They are commonly used for toy breeds in show rings. The collar portion slips over the head and tightens when the leash is pulled. The collar is kept in place by a plastic tube that slides down the leash. For larger dogs it is recommended to buy larger versions of the lead which are also freely available.

Find out more about pet care and pet care products by visiting http://bestpetproducts.blogspot.com and do remember to bookmark the site for daily updates and new articles on pet care.

How to Choose Dog Foods Correctly

2008-06-18T07:41:00.002-07:00

Canine nutrition is a conundrum that people are often faced with and it can be quite a touchy subject. Thousands of food options exist and choosing the best one is often a very challenging issue that pet owners are left to tackle. There are opinions galore from veterinarians, breeders, trainers, pet food store workers, dog trainers and other pet owners. Ultimately the decision is left to you to choose the best possible food that your dog needs. Here are some tips to identify the best foods that suit(s) your dog(s).

When it comes to making dog food choices inevitably the following are the key areas to be addressed:

1. Veterinary Prescription Diets
2. Holistic / Natural Commercial Diets
3. Premium Dog Food
4. Economy Dog Food
5. Homemade / Raw Diets

Commercial foods are either available as wet or dry and you can make a choice depending on what suits your dog best. The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) has developed several profiles for dog and puppy nutrition. These standards are meant to be reflected on the dog food label. Make sure you read these labels and get well acquainted with them. However do remember that labels can be misleading.

Having done your research and deciding on a general diet plan for your dog, ask other dog owners their experiences with various diets. Different dogs react differently to different diets and make sure you narrow down your choices with all these different information you gain. Do not forget to let your dog SAMPLE the diet it prefers. Most companies are more than willing to offer you a few different foods as samples and let your dog decide for itself as to which food is palatable!

Once you make a decision to change the food, add increasing amounts of the new food to the old food before gradually removing the old food completely. If the dog is responding well to the new diet continue with it. If it falls ill do consult the veterinarian and revert back to the old diet if the new one does not agree with your dog.

Read more about pet care and reviews of some interesting pet care products at http://bestpetproducts.blogspot.com/
Pets Are A Man's Best Friend!

The Benefits of Dog Containment Systems

2008-06-18T07:41:00.001-07:00

Every dog or pet owner needs a dog containment system to give their pet the correct training in certain aspects. Like in some cases, your dog should not run astray in restricted areas where it could cause some damage to property.

There are so many dog containment systems that are useful and very convenient to use. No need to lock him up in a cage 24 hours a day and seven days a week. Moreover, you do not have to tie him up so he would not go rummaging around the living room or garden. Besides, your pet needs enough exercise and freedom to walk, run and play around. And there are already many types of dog containment systems that are available in the market today: the indoor containment system, the wireless containment and the wireless system.

The indoor system consists of a pet gate where your dog can enter the house without having to open or close the door for your pet. These pet gates come in different sizes and designs that will suit and match your interiors. No need to worry about running your beautiful landscape because of a metal or wooden fence. Some are hard mounted while some are pressure mounted.

For those who have patio doors, there are available patio pet doors in many pet shops these days. The wireless containment system has an invisible electrical wiring that restricts your dog to enter the restricted areas. This is very useful especially for constant travelers who leave their house frequently. Plus, you will give your dog the freedom to run around and have exercise while you are away.

In addition, if you want to get your dog into sports, you can purchase dog agility equipment. This will be a fun and exciting sport for you and your pet. Moreover, this allows the pet owner to train his dog and improve its movement and build up its agility. Pet shops have a complete line of accessories and dog agility equipment which includes pause tables, see-saw, chutes, tunnels, hurdles and many more.

Worried about the cleanliness of your beloved pet? Flea and tick is one of the trusted names when it comes to keeping your dogs clean and tick-free. They are made with non-toxic chemicals and it is very efficient in killing fleas and ticks. And you can make sure that there will be no bugs in your carpets or furniture. All you have to do is to dedicate some time to spray and vacuum it all off to make sure that your house and pet is tick and bug-free.

To learn more about Flea And Tick, Dog Agility Equipment and other training tips and tricks please visit Dog Containment Systems.

Getting a Name For Your Puppy As Well As Caring and Training For Your Puppy

2008-06-18T07:41:00.000-07:00

Conferring a name to your puppy is a joy bequeathed to your dear companion. Puppies enhance the surroundings you are in, especially the place where you live, as it is a pleasure for a lovable pet to play around with. To get a name for your puppy that fixes their personality is a challenging task. What sort of name does you feel comfortable with and it is something that you will have to call him for many years.

Make sure it is a time-tested name and keep it straightforward. Get a name the puppy can identify with, as just calling him will see him running forward with a recognizable joy. Name a puppy may seem a difficult task but the joy in choosing one is enough to make up for it. Get a name that is right and you will have a lifetime of pleasure and companion with your closest friend. Of course, I meant the lifetime of your beloved dog.

A newborn puppy needs tender loving care just as a newborn baby. Taking good care of him and you will a pet that will attach to you as it grows. A puppy needs nourishment, sleep in addition to interaction, so put forward your paternal or maternal instinct to him as it progress slowly. The love and care you provide will be reciprocated many times over and the joy will enhance your life.

But before you name your puppy, be sure to get the right puppy for your household, as it needs to get along with your family members. The breed of the dog and its size is a deciding factor but a purebred will be expensive compared to a mixed breed. Take your time to decide and make sure it is cuddly. Do not be shy to get down and play with the puppy to decide if it is the right one for you and consult of your vet or friends for the best place to acquire one.

Care for your puppy entails you to be alert to it as the environment; social factors and food can distress them. A puppy can be hit by illness and some of the symptoms to look out for are loss of appetite, lethargy, pain of any kind, vomiting, diarrhea, and fever. Consult a vet if you observe that your puppy is behaving differently and the appropriate course of action need to be taken to ensure a hale and hearty pet again.

To ensure that your puppy is healthy, a brisk walk for the pet is good as puppy is known to be lively and need some form of exercise. You can let your puppy run liberally when you are out in the park or you can formulate an exercise plan for you puppy. A happy puppy needs lots of attention and exercise or a bored puppy will pick up bad habits to annoy you.

Treat your puppy with lots of love and the joy will be reciprocate throughout the whole household, as a well-taken care puppy will brighten your day when you least expect it. A puppy at home is a lovely companion and can shares your ups and downs, playing a part in you life joyous moments.

Jhye is an author who enjoys the companion of pets and looking up on information about them. Check up this resource at http://www.nameyourpuppies.com

How to House Train a Puppy

2008-06-17T07:40:00.002-07:00

The joy of owning a puppy and seeing it grow up is among the most gratifying experiences that a dog lover could ever ask for. There are many things that each will discover about the other en route to establishing a long and trusting relationship. One thing that must be accomplished first if you are planning on having the puppy stay indoors for any amount of time is housebreaking, or house training. Puppies have the capability to learn this right away. This is why it is so important to establish the correct house training routine while the puppy is at a young age. The house training habit that a puppy acquires can be difficult to break once they are ingrained, and they can last for a lifetime.

One of the most significant things to do during the initial house training of a puppy is to observe the puppy. Observe your puppy while also keeping an eye on the time. If it is a gorgeous day outside, and your puppy is very active, taking him out more than once an hour would be a good idea. A puppy's metabolism is so fast, that he must consume more water than he would if he were fully grown. Also, to feed this high metabolism, he must eat a lot more often. With all of this food and water going in, it's easy to understand that it has to come out.

You may want to try house training your puppy by using the paper method, which basically has the puppy using the bathroom on newspapers. Teaching your puppy to relieve himself indoors, then expecting him to make the transition to relieve himself outdoors will confuse your young puppy. Actually, this technique will make it more difficult and take longer to house train your puppy. You teach your puppy that it is not acceptable to use the bathroom in the house by only permitting him to use it outside. Also, the puppy could get in the habit of relieving itself near the newspaper rather than on the newspaper. It is vital that you keep the puppy on a regular schedule by going outside.

A very effective system that develops positive results is known as the "crate" system. You basically keep the puppy in a crate for about an hour, and then take the puppy outdoors so he can relieve himself. The crate system trains the puppy to "hold it" until he is given the chance to relieve himself in an area chosen by you. The logic behind this system is that a puppy doesn't want to mess up its living area if it doesn't have to. If your puppy does relieve itself in the crate, it was because he could no longer hold it and because you kept him in the crate too long. If this happens, it can compromise this training technique.

House training a puppy is an essential step in dog training if you would like your young puppy to establish good habits from the beginning. The most important thing to remember with house training a puppy is to be consistent and offer it a tremendous amount of praise. The process might take a while and it is important to understand that whenever the puppy has an accident during the training, it is okay. You should just increase the frequency of trips outside. If the puppy has an accident after its training has ended, don't punish him. Merely return back to the training process temporarily and you'll be back on track in no time.

For more information on house training a puppy or dog, please visit my blog at http://HowToHouseTrainAPuppy.blogspot.com.

Disobedient Dog - Training Tips That Will Prove Helpful For Your Beloved Pooch

2008-06-17T07:40:00.001-07:00

Does your puppy or dog ignore you when you command him to do something? Who rules the territory in your home, you or him? Does he do his duties just wherever he chooses, or when you set down at the dinner table, is he dancing around the table saying " I want mine too?" Sounds like you have a disobedient dog that needs to be taught some discipline. In this article we are going to look at a few basic dog training tips that will prove helpful with your dogs behavior problems.

Training your dog in the beginning is very important, if you don't want to share your life with a disobedient pooch. Most people want to treat their dog or pup like their "little baby", but a dog is not a baby, it is a dog and they have to be treated like one. They have a totally different nature than we have and they have to be treated as such. They have to know who is in control, and you are the one that has to teach them this. There has to be rules established, and never back down from them. Set rules for him and be very consistent with enforcing those rules.

Here are a few training tips on ways to get your pooch to do as he is told:

- First off, they need to be taught the basic fundamental steps of obedience - sit, stay, and go. By teaching them these they will understand that you are the dominate party.

- When you first bring your dog into your home establish rules for him. Make it known to him where he has do his duties, whether it be outside, or inside on a pad. Keep a steady watch on him and get to know his habits, look for things that may trigger him to want to potty. It may be the smell of food, or a particular activity, be observant and get to know him.

- Make it known to him what parts of the home he is not allowed in and any furniture that is off limits, and be firm and consistent with your commands.

- Never make the mistake of feeding them from the table at mealtime This is one of the biggest mistakes that dog owners can make. Once this habit has been started it is one of the most difficult to break. This communicates to the dog that this is where he is supposed to have his meal. Instead, make him wait until you have finished your meal and then allow him to have his. This creates a sense of your authority over him and don't give in when he "whines", because he is being left out. He is not getting left out, he is just being made to wait until you have finished.

- Never allow jumping up, even when playing. Always make them sit and wait for you to give the commands.

- Always use a stern voice when initiating a command, as this will impress in the dogs mind that you are the dominant factor.

- Most importantly, reward them for their good behavior. Dogs have logical minds, therefore they think in terms of "good and bad." A dog learns by recognizing that a specified action is the either right, or wrong. A reward reinforces this thinking pattern. If you give your dog a reward when he does the right thing, he will associate that action with a reward. So each time he is rewarded you are reinforcing a positive frame of mind. They can be rewarded in several different ways, either by praise, food, or toys. I have found food to be the most effective for my own dogs, but use whatever seems to work best for you.

Training a dog involves a lot of time and hard work. With this being said, time and consistency are very important factors in the training process of your dog. You must take the time to get to know your dog and his habits and be very consistent in your training procedures.

You may even prefer to use a personal dog trainer, or there is also a number of online courses available to fill your needs

Did you find this helpful? If you need further assistance with your dog training needs you can visit us at: http://bemasbest-dog-training-reviews.blogspot.com

Pure Breed, Mixed Breed Or Designer Breed

2008-06-17T07:40:00.000-07:00

With hundreds of pure breed dogs, an almost infinite number of mixed breeds and a growing number of designer breed dogs, it is hard to decide which one is a good fit for your family. Some dogs might be good with children and thrive on the noise and commotion of the family home. These same dogs might be badly behaved and horribly sad if they spend most of their days alone without human interaction. Other dogs are just the opposite and are happy with a quiet environment and become over stimulated and badly behaved around children.

Pure Breed Dogs

One of the biggest advantages of a pure breed dog is that, to some degree, there is predictability when you select your dog as a puppy. Of course, not all adult dogs of a breed act the same way. However, you can make an educated guess as to the dog’s future looks, health problems and behavioral characteristics. If you are looking for a good jogging partner, you can find one. If you are looking for a dog that is likely to be good with kids, you can find that too. In order to have the best chance of getting a dog that is characteristic of the breed, it is important that you get your puppy from a reputable breeder. While most breeders operate for a profit, a reputable breeder also has the dogs’ welfare at heart and treats them well. A breeder that is primarily concerned with profit may feed the dogs less nutritious food and keep the dogs in less than pristine living conditions. The best way to find a reputable breeder is to do a little research and to visit the breeder, if at all possible.

Mixed Breed Dogs

Many family pets that have been adopted from the pound or obtained when a dog in the neighborhood had puppies are mixed breed dogs. Mixed breed dogs are also known as mutts. Mutts can be wonderful pets. However, it is important that you know as much about their parentage as you can. If you know what breeds the dog descends from, then you will know as much as possible about its potential temperament and health problems.

Designer Dogs

Designer dogs are gaining in popularity. Unlike mixed breed “mutts” that happen by chance, designer dogs are a purposeful breeding of two specific breeds. Careful research and thought has gone into the combinations of dogs that are being bred. The breeding is meant to result in a dog that has the best characteristics of both its parents. The thought is, for example, to produce a wonderful family dog that does not shed. Sometimes this is successful and sometimes it is not. Designer dogs are expensive and very popular right now and can be wonderful pets if they have the right parents. However, some people who are not in favor of this purposeful cross breeding believe that these dogs are simply expensive mutts.

So, before you welcome your new dog into your home be sure to consider to pros and cons of pure breeds, mutts and designer dogs. They all can make a wonderful family pet.

Jason Fuss has been writing since the days of the high school newspaper. He is currently a journalist for a Wisconsin regional magazine, but enjoys writing about dogs as a hobby.Get more information regarding how to feed your dog properly.

Caring For a Healthy Puppy

2008-06-17T07:39:00.001-07:00

When you get a puppy, it's a lot like having a new child. It is your responsibility to take care of it, protect it, and make sure it stays out of harm's way. And just like a child, puppies and their immune systems are subject to plenty of diseases that we can help prevent by taking the right steps when we first bring our new puppies home.

VACCINES

Once you procure ownership of your puppy, immediately go to a veterinarian for an examination. Veterinarians can determine how healthy your brand new puppy is and what kind of vaccinations he/she needs. By looking at the puppy's breeding/vaccination report, a vet can determine if the puppy does or does not need to receive any more vaccinations. If the puppy's never been vaccinated it will most certainly receive the necessary vaccinations during that first visit. Most veterinarians use multivalent vaccines when vaccinating your puppy. Multivalent vaccines combine several different disease antigens into one shot so your puppy doesn't have to receive several shots. Puppies receive vaccinations to prevent them from getting diseases at ages when they are most susceptible. Make sure to set a schedule with your veterinarian regarding when your puppy should come in for another vaccination (or "booster" shot).

SPAYING OR NEUTERING

If your puppy is not spayed or neutered, ask your veterinarian what might be a good time to have it done. Spaying a female dog prevents her from having unwanted puppies from the future. It also prevents the probability of disease, such as breast cancer and uterine infection. Male dogs that aren't neutered are more at risk for testicular cancer and prostate disease. A male dog that isn't neutered also tends to be more aggressive towards people and dogs alike. As a general rule of thumb, it is best to spay a female dog before her first heat cycle, and for a male dog it is normally best to have him neutered at 6 months. Regardless, check with your veterinarian to know the optimal time for either.

WORMS

Worms are parasites that can grow in your puppy's intestines and feed off nutrients that pass through them. These are nutrients that your puppy needs. As soon as you can, bring your veterinarian a sample of your puppy's stool. Your vet can examine it for worm eggs to determine if your puppy does in fact have them. If your pet does have worms, the veterinarian will be able to determine exactly what kind of species they are and give you the appropriate medicine or "wormer" to help get them out of your puppy's system. Even if the puppy does not have worms, he/she can get them by exposure to another infected animal's feces. Make sure to clean up feces left by your puppy every week and pick up after it on walks.

These are only some of the basic health issues to keep in mind when deciding to get a puppy. You should generally make sure to feed your pup well and exercise it to keep its health and immune system strong.

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Quickly House Train Any Dog Or Puppy

2008-06-17T07:39:00.000-07:00

People often struggle with training their dogs to live inside, but it is much simpler than you would think. In fact, following a few simple rules will make your life a lot easier when training a dog.

1. Praise is the most effective tool. So often owners shouting, ranting, screaming and even hitting their dogs when they do something wrong, but when the dog behaves well they give little or no praise. Punishment won't tell a dog where or what to do, at best it will stop the dog in its tracks. At worst it can cause utter confusion which won't achieve any of your training goals.
2. Repeatedly use the same words when praising or telling off a dog. Dogs are like small children, if you use a word enough, they will begin to understand what it means. When your dog does something well, say the word you would like associated with that action.
3. Find an effective and non-aggressive punishment. The best punishments are ones that don't involve shouting or aggression. Making the dog stay in its bed or in a small area often work well.

The most important thing is to use punishment sparingly, if you use it too often before long it will lose its effect, and the dogs respect for you will go with it! Build a good relationship with the dog. Start with the basics and work your way up, and by following these simple rules you will have your dog or puppy house trained in no time.

Learn how to train your dog like a professional dog trainer today with dog training ebook

Richard Cross is owner and webmaster of Dogsandyou.co.uk

How to Train a Chihuahua

2008-06-16T07:38:00.002-07:00

How to train a Chihuahua may be daunting you at every step - how is it done? Perhaps you are having trouble with an unruly dog or maybe you have or plan to get a tiny little pup and want it to grow up acting as it should. Where should you start?

One of the methods that are getting hot with trainers right now is the 'click method'. In this method a 'clicker', which is available at some pet stores, is used to train the dog. Here's how it works: The first step in click training is to set your dog on a chair, bed, sofa, or some other surface that he can't get off of. The 'clicker' is then clicked and the dog is given a small treat. Repeat this several times, until your doggie relates a click with a treat. This may take some time-don't expect your Chihuahua to get it in one lesson, it may take as much as 100 click-treat parings before he makes the connection! Remember: give tiny treats!

The next step, introduce the command. When your dog makes the connection, then give him a command, let's say "Sit." Start by saying your Chihuahua's name before the command, "Frisky, sit." Waiting only for a millisecond after the command, help him perform what was asked of him: right after the "Frisky, sit", lure his front end up by holding a treat above and just behind the muzzle. If your Chihuahua jumps for his treat, don't give it to him. If he bends his hind legs to get the treat, click your clicker and reward Frisky with the treat. Do it again, clicking and giving the treat as he performs actions closer to the sitting position. Finally, Frisky sits, you click and reward.

Let's try another one, the command 'stay'. First step, hold Frisky there for a moment and then let go and step a few feet away, "Frisky, stay." Remember: only expect him to stay for a few seconds at first. If he stays, click and reward. Don't reward him if he starts coming toward you though. Repeat until he does it right a few times. If Frisky starts getting good at that distance, back up a little more. Continue getting farther and farther away over a period of time. Keep after him until he stays like a pro.

When training, remember to keep sessions short and end on a positive note. In other words if Frisky does start coming toward you when teaching to stay and you get so frustrated that you just pick him up and shove him in his kennel, then he's probably going to get the idea that when he does that he gets put up. No! Keep going until he does what you want him to. Then you reward him and put him up.

Now you know how to train a Chihuahua with just a few steps, using the simple 'click method'. Enjoy your trained Chihuahua!

Puzzled about care for Chihuahua dogs? Need more information? Visit our site for Chihuahua training tips.

We invite you to visit http://www.ChihuahuaTips.com for answers to your Chihuahua dog questions.

Toilet Training Your Puppy by Training Yourself

2008-06-16T07:38:00.001-07:00

Toilet training your puppy can get a little frustrating at times and it's just not possible to keep an eye on him 24 hours a day, so first up, just don't expect too much too quickly from your new puppy. Some puppies may take up until about six months old before they are completely toilet trained. Puppies do tend to eat a lot and use their bladder and bowels a lot but as they get older they will gain more control.

As puppies grow and develop quite quickly it is completely natural that they will eat a lot and will
have a lot of energy and as such will need to ‘eliminate’ quite often. A young puppy will not have developed bladder and bowel control so they are just not able to hold on as long as an adult dog.

As puppies grow and develop quite quickly it is completely natural that they will eat a lot and will have a lot of energy and as such will need to 'eliminate' quite often. A young puppy will not have developed bladder and bowel control so they are just not able to hold on as long as an adult dog.

Be really enthusiastic and give her a lot of praise when she does her business in the designated area. Dogs love to please their owners so when she receives lots of praise
from you she will want to do it again to keep pleasing you. When she is in the house keep an eye on her and if you catch her doing her business you should take her out to the designated area. You will need to be consistent and keep taking her out to the right spot and keep up the praise.

Be really enthusiastic and give her a lot of praise when she does her business in the designated area. Dogs love to please their owners so when she receives lots of praise from you she will want to do it again to keep pleasing you. When she is in the house keep an eye on her and if you catch her doing her business you should take her out to the designated area. You will need to be consistent and keep taking her out to the right spot and keep up the praise.

Be consistent and be patient with your puppy. Do not punish her for little accidents, it is normal for these to happen at times, just remember to give her lots of praise when she gets it right. Puppy training does take a bit of time and the older your puppy gets the more control over her bowel and bladder she will have. To learn more about toilet training your puppy, click here!

Leader of the Pack - Whose the Boss, Your Dog Or You?

2008-06-16T07:38:00.000-07:00

I'm sure there are many dog owners out there who, although they planned to take control early and show their dog who is the boss, have somehow ended up being under the control of the dog. Some dogs do take control of their owner's life which at times can be very frustrating. It is important that your dog knows right from the start that YOU are the 'leader of the pack'.

A dog needs to know it's boundaries for its own sake as well as for the sake of the family members. It is good for your dog to be able to socialize with other dogs but some discipline measures need to be taken to ensure that your dog will socialize well. If a dog is left to think that he is the 'leader of the pack' in the home then he will try to show that leadership with other dogs and could become aggressive with other dogs.

If your dog it too attached to you as its owner it may become a problem in that he may not let anyone near you. This can make your friends feel uncomfortable to visit your home if they are feeling threatened by your dog. If you have children in your home it is even more essential that you let your dog know its place in the home. Your dog needs to take place at the bottom of the pack and even the children need to hold a position above the dog in the pecking order.

Puppies need discipline to know who the boss is. By setting the rules early your dog will be an absolute pleasure to have as a member of your family. To learn more about setting the rules for your dog, click here!

Are You Thinking About Buying a Puppy?

2008-06-16T07:37:00.001-07:00

Puppies are so cute and adorable that sometimes it can be hard to walk past them in the pet store. You do need to realise though that as cute as they are they are a long time commitment and unless you are ready to make that commitment for the next 10 to 15 years then you better think twice about walking through that pet store door.

You should never rush the decision to buy a puppy or buy one on the spur of the moment as there are a number of considerations that you need to make before buying a puppy.

Different dog breeds have different personalities and different needs so you really need to research the dog breeds that you are considering to make sure that the breed will be suitable for you and your family.

How do you decide then on what type of breed is suitable for you?

If you have children in your family then you really need to choose your breed carefully. Some dog breeds can be quite aggressive and are not at all suitable for children so please stay well away from these breeds if children are in the home.

The next thing to consider when choosing the right dog breed is the maintenance of certain breeds. Some breeds are much higher in maintenance than others and you will need to consider how much expense you are willing to have with dog grooming and clipping and how much time you have for dog grooming. If you are a person that has no time for regular brushing and clipping then you should choose a short haired breed that need less maintenance.

Some dog breeds will need more exercise than other so also consider how much time you have to exercise your dog. If you are not able to walk your dog each day then you will want to choose a breed that doesn't require as much exercise.

Lastly, you need to consider the size of the dog and the size of your home. Even though that cute little puppy in the pet store window is little, depending on the breed that little puppy may grow up into a large dog. If you have a small home then you may be better suited to a smaller dog breed.

A puppy can be the perfect addition to any family as long as you are prepared for what lies ahead. Choose your puppy carefully and you will have a loyal companion for many years ahead.

A puppy is a beautiful addition to a family as long as you choose your breed wisely and train your puppy correctly. To find our more about dogs and dog training visit our site at Guide To Dog Training

What is in Commercial Dog Food?

2008-06-16T07:37:00.000-07:00

More people are concerned with the food their pets eat than ever before. Once, feeding your dog table scraps was considered a treat because he was eating 'human food'. However, the reality of table scraps is that they are likely to be low in nutrition and high in fat, salt and sugar. After all, they are the things you decided not to eat. Indeed, this concern about our pets nutrition has pretty much mirrored the concern for our own nutrition. A result of this concern is the huge variety of dog food types and brands that are now available. Many claim to be premium quality or specialized in some way. What does this actually mean and is it just hype. This article will cover what is in commercial dog food and what to look for when buying it.

There are three things to look for when you are buying commercial dog food. They can help you build a pretty good picture of what the food is made from.

The product must be complete and balanced. A product can be complete and balanced when it satisfies the guidelines that are issued by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). They ensure that the food is nutritionally complete for the type of animal that the food was created for.

The next thing to look for is the guaranteed analysis. This essentially lists the types of foodstuffs in the food. The main part of the food, according to the guaranteed analysis, must be protein. But it should have a variety of other foodstuffs including fats, water and vitamins and minerals.

Finally, the ingredients will give a concrete breakdown of what is in the food. You should look for the main protein source. A good quality dog food should have a meat protein like beef or chicken in it. Make sure that this is the real thing and not something that sounds like chicken or beef.

For instance, something might be described as a beef dinner for dogs, where beef dinner is the main constituent ingredient. It is not actually beef but a formulated ingredient that might only contain a small percentage of beef.

You should also look at the preservatives and additives that go into the food. There is much debate about the safety of some preservatives and the effectiveness of others. Make sure the food is not chocked full of these products and check out the reports on the preservatives that are in the food.

A food manufacturers commitment to it's products should be demonstrated by the labeling that they have on the packaging. It should indicate that the food is complete and balanced, it should list the guaranteed analysis and ingredients. Another quality control indication is a website address where you can find out more information about the product or an address where you can ask for more information.

Learn more details about what is in commercial dog food and other dog health and care issues at http://www.doghealthncare.com

The Froggers

2008-06-15T07:36:00.001-07:00

As I have mentioned in another article, both my Springer Spaniels are accomplished froggers. Molly, my black and white springer, could 'frog' for England at the 'frogging olympics' if such an entity existed.

She is so accomplished, that she sometimes comes trotting into the house with up to 3 frogs, her mouth gently but firmly closed over fat bodies, leaving a tangle of long green legs hanging out of the sides. Usually though, it's only one unfortunate creature that has been caught unawares as it came out of hiding, thinking it's a safe time to go about catching dinner.

Maisie, my liver and white Springer, isn't quite as adept at catching them, though she could still be an international at the event. She likes to see them jump, so she'll give them a whack, with her paw, then she'll chase after them and repeat the exercise, until they are steered in the direction of the pond, a place she is convinced they should be contained in, She knows they live there, she saw them in the bottom when we dug it out a month or two back. Once the escapee is back in it's watery gaol, she'll go in search of another, looking under shrubs, stones and bits of old log we have scattered about the place.

Occasionally she'll pick one up and trot around the garden with it. If we spot her, a quick 'leave' command, will see her cough up the absconding prisoner, she will then guard it carefully until we, the warders, stroll up to return the inmate to it's watery cell.

Molly doesn't give up her prize as easily. She is a hoarder, a collector, an expert on the species. It really doesn't matter if she has a frog or a foul tasting toad. Once they are caught, they don't get released until they been carefully inspected, catalogued, sized and sexed. We always groan when we see her with one, as we know what a tough job we have ahead of us, trying to negotiate a ransom.

We have tried numerous techniques over the last 3 years. All have worked for a while, but only a while, once she got used to our release strategy, she steeled herself to resist, and we had to move on to plan D, E, etc, currently we are deploying plan I.

Initially, she would drop on command, albeit reluctantly. Then she decided to be stubborn, it was her frog, she went to the trouble of catching it, why should she give it up just because someone asked her to? It just wasn't fair, amid she wasn't going to do it. Surely there were rules about this sort of thing. The European Court had rights for humans, why not for frog catching dogs?

We moved on to plan B.

This strategy consisted of grabbing the loose skin at the back of her neck whilst saying 'NO' sternly. This worked about twice.

Plan C, D and E, were as ineffective as plan F, and were quickly discarded. besides, we didn't always have sausages in the fridge. For a while we stuck to plan G and just herded her into her cage, and waited until she dropped it. The prisoner would then play dead, and Molly would eventually lose interest, enabling us to retrieve it and return it to the pond.

Plan H was very successful and we really thought we had, at last, cracked it. This plan emerged out of a 'think in' with a dog trainer, an animal behaviourist, and a painter and decorator from just round the corner, the latter's idea of 'whacking her round the back of her head with a bag of soft putty' was at first laughed off, but then placed back on the agenda as a fall back item, to be discussed in case of emergency.

Eventually we discovered that the professional dog people knew best, and the tip of forcing fingers into both sides of her mouth did cause her to eject the creature, though we then had to be quick in picking the poor thing up before Molly realised it was still available for recapture. Unfortunately after a month or so, she discovered that by clamping her jaws tight shut, bracing herself, and giving us a look that unmistakeably said 'do your worst, I'll never spill the beans, or the frog' we would eventually give up, and not wanting to risk hurting it , revert back to plan G and herd her towards the cage.

As I said we are currently successfully employing plan I.

This plan was formulated one night, when my wife, suffering from a severe and very heavy cold, stated that she was having difficulty breathing when walking the dogs on the country park. Her nose was completely blocked, I was about to sympathetically tell her to stop whinging, when I suddenly had that EUREKA moment.

The next time Molly got a frog, i was there in an instant. Grabbing her firmly by the collar i placed two fingers of my free hand over her nostrils and waited. Within 30 seconds she had released the frog. I had done it!! Plan I was the big one, the master plan, the winner of the best plan of the decade award, I felt like telling the world, maybe i could sell the secret and become rich?

It still works, months later. She does try to beat it, she'll now take up to 90 seconds to release, her breath sounds like gravel rattling round in the bottom of an old bucket, her eyes roll and she paws the ground, but she does give it up. I think even Molly knows there will be no need for a plan J.

http://www.whatliesbeneath.net
http://www.tbrb.co.uk

Dog Care - 6 Vital Tips For a Happy and Healthy Dog

2008-06-15T07:36:00.000-07:00

Before going out to buy or adopt a new puppy or grown dog, take a little time and make sure you're properly prepared. Providing good dog care is quite a responsibility and there are many factors to consider. Here are 6 basic tips designed to help you get prepared for the new pet's arrival.

1. Exercise

All dogs require plenty of daily exercise -- it's a big part of great dog care. With a toy dog breed this is fairly easy to accomplish -- they usually get enough exercise each day just walking from one end of the house to the other. But with a medium to large sized dog it's a different story. They require a decent--sized fenced yard or a daily walk every day.

2. Dog Supplies

Here are some basic dog supplies that you'll need to provide as soon as possible:

-- Food and Water Bowls

-- Food

-- Toys

-- Brush

-- Collar with I.D. Tag

-- Leash

-- Crate or Kennel

-- Dog Bed

-- Flea and Tick Medication

-- Cleaning Supplies: including a Pooper Scooper

3. Pick a Healthy Dog

When going to examine a litter of puppies here are some general guidelines. Carefully examine all of the puppies. If any one dog appears to be sick, then it's probably a good idea to look elsewhere -- more than likely the whole litter is sick.

A healthy puppy or adult dog should have bright and clear eyes -- with no sign of mucous or discharge. Their ears will be clean and free of parasites. They should walk straight with no limp. And their coat will be free of sores or bald patches. Be sure to ask for any registration papers and health records before adopting a dog.

4. Companionship

Canines are social animals and require lots of companionship to stay happy and healthy. If you'll be gone for long periods during the day, you might want to consider getting a second dog -- one of his litter mates or another compatible dog from the shelter. This is another example of good dog care.

5. Dog Training

Dogs crave discipline and structure in their lives to keep them happy and healthy. So you should begin training your puppy or dog immediately. And believe it or not, even an older dog can be trained. Many people don't realize that dog training is a big part of caring for dogs.

Whether you take classes or buy books and DVDs to learn dog training, remember that your dog will not become completely obedient overnight. It's a continual process and some dogs progress faster than others. But if you're persistent and spend enough time and effort you'll eventually have a fully trained dog.

6. Dog Food

Try to give your dog a good quality food designed for their particular stage of life. Quality food may be a bit more expensive than the generic, cheap variety -- but you'll end up saving money in the long run. Your dog will be healthier and won't require as many trips to the veterinarian.

You should never give your dogs "people food" or "table scraps." It is definitely an example of poor dog care. I know it's hard to resist a begging dog, but you're actually being cruel when you give in. It leads to all sorts of serious health problems including arthritis and diabetes.

Learn more about Dog Care at http://www.petcarejournal.com - a website designed to provide you with pet care articles and resources that will help you get the most out of your pet keeping experience, no matter what type of pet you own.

Fun Activities For You and Your Furry Friend

2008-06-15T07:35:00.001-07:00

Being a dog owner can be a fun experience. They can lighten up your mood, they get you outdoors, exploring new places, and they are excited to see you no matter what you look like. They can also help you to experience new things too.

There are many different activities designed with the dog owner in mind. So if you are looking to start a new hobby and you would like to include your loyal companion, here you will find some of the best dog-related activities available. Just remember to make sure that your dog is trained before you take part in outdoor experiences!

Some of the Best Dog Activities

There are a number of different activities which you can take part in with your dog. Some of the most popular include:

• Agility
• Hide and Seek
• Fetch
• Obedience Shows
• Hiking
• Dog Camps

There really are a limitless number of things that both you and your dog can enjoy and the above are just a small sample of them.

Agility is one of the most popular activities and most breeds can join in. It would best suit energetic breeds such as sheepdogs and terriers. However every dog can enjoy a little agility, you just have to find out what your dog likes the most and incorporate it into the agility routine. Usually agility consists of jumps, tunnels and climbing frames. It can be extremely fun and there should be a local agility group near you which you could join.

Hide and seek is another activity which you can take part in. Either you can hide and get your dog to find you, or you could hide objects for your dog to find. This type of activity really stimulates your dog's mind and that can also help with energetic breeds. Many dog problems are caused because the dog is bored. By stimulating its mind you will be helping to tire them out too!

Obedience and fun shows are another activity you could take part in with your dog. Some dogs love to be shown and they love the attention that they receive both before and after. Entering small, fun shows will give you an idea of whether this type of activity suits your dog. Obviously your dog should know the basic obedience commands if they are to do well in a show environment - even if they are only small shows!

Playing fetch with your dog is an obvious activity to take part in. Terriers and sheepdogs again will love this type of activity. Chasing a ball is a natural instinct for dogs and they love nothing more than a game of fetch.

Less obvious activities which you can take part in with your dog include hiking and dog camps. The latter are not overly well known but they are designed for dog owners to meet each other and to let their dogs to socialize with other dogs. They can be great fun both for the dog and for you so it could be worth looking into a dog camp if you enjoy the great outdoors! Hiking is another outdoor activity which you can do with your dog. If you plan to go on a long hike then you could always take a tent and camp out. Always remember to take plenty of water for your dog if you do choose to take them on a hike - especially on a hot day.

There are so many different activities that you can enjoy with your dog. It would be a great idea to find out what interests your dog the most. Are they energetic? Would they prefer a hike over agility? Agility is suitable for most dogs but not all dogs will enjoy it. Do not force your dog to do any activity as this will make it a nightmare instead of fun for your pet!

Overall if you take the time to try out different activities you will get to see which ones are best suited to you and your dog. People who take part in activities with their pet find that it strengthens their bond with their dogs. If you and your pet have a strong bond then your life will be a lot more enjoyable as a result.

Go to http://www.InternationalKennel.com for your new puppy, or call us at 516-794-PUPS for more information on how you can get your registered purebred bred for quality, temperament, and trainability. The International Kennel Club has brought happiness and joy with its pure bred selection of puppies to Long Island residents since 1979.

South Dakota - Dog Breed Ban Pierces the Heart of the Heartland

2008-06-15T07:35:00.000-07:00

"Breed specific laws are not based in science. [Laws] banning breeds will not make you safer, and the illusion that they will do so is dangerous to humans and unfair to dogs." Dr. Karen Overall

I'll admit to having more than a bit of trouble writing this story. It kept morphing itself into a full book chapter, not a tight little web article. 'Just the facts mam.' Brevity has never been my forte and a breed ban in my own back yard - the State of South Dakota, definitely provided me enough ammo for a thousand satires. But, here you have it.

The whispers are true. Leola, South Dakota has indeed, tragically, passed Breed Specific Legislation, banning certain 'types' of dogs in their town. A summary of the details are as follows:

• The breeds involved are pit bulls, bull mastiffs, Rottweilers, Doberman pinchers, German shepherds, and any mixes of those breeds.

• Dogs of those breeds already registered to town residents are "grandfathered" in and not subject to the ban.

• According to with Mayor Dean Schock, whom I interviewed for this story, if there is a question of lineage in suspected mixed breed 'offenders,' a genetic test will be conducted (one step up on a few big cities out there).

• After the town council originally passed the ban a local person adopted a Rottweiler puppy, and had the law put before voters. The town's citizens supported the legislation by a vote of 103 - 27.

• On a more progressive note, Leola does require all dogs to be spay / neutered unless a breeding license is obtained, so puppies will not be born to the banned breeds.

Those of us working with shelter dogs understand, or have access to information on, the innumerable flaws dealing with breed bans. We know the science does not play out. We know this seemingly 'easy out' ultimately causes more harm than good. So, I will not dive into that here. I will, however, briefly touch on some other points.

There was no preemptive incident, such as a dog attack, that spurred the town into reactionary legislation. Leola's residents were simply worried that with children, joggers, and bicyclists around town a breed ban was needed to insure safety. The town folks requested the ban. Like most who understand the flaws and heartbreak of breed bans my blood was boiling at the legislation's passing, but upon hearing of citizens actually asking government to take away individual freedoms my blood ran cold.

I immediately wanted to hire a helicopter and drop leaflets over the community. They would say, "Ban Chains, Not Breeds!", "Fence in Your Yards, Not Your Liberties" or "Bad Owners Make Aggressive Dogs!" Lucky for Leola the high cost of gas kept me grounded. Grrr!

Readers may have noted the extremely odd presence of German shepards on the list of banned breeds in Leola. According to Mayor Schock a friend of his, who once worked with police dogs in Aberdeen, SD, had heard of an incident in where someone adopted a retired police dog and there was an attack. This third-party, partial account, of a one in a million shot, leading to outlawing an entire breed is the ultimate testimonial as to what happens once these dangerous, flood gates are opened. If I mentioned my own dog's "issues" with the Mayor, would poodle mixes be next on the hit list?

That shot fired, I have to say, Mayor Schock was a very accommodating victim of my interview styles. He was gracious, well-spoken, and intelligent (German Shepard thing not withstanding). He requested a copy of this story be sent on to him and I fully intend to honor his request - including links to the article responses on the Best Friends Network. Let us not hate the town of Leola. Let us hate the lack of education on the subject of dog behavior and dog breeds that is the ultimate cause of Breed Specific Legislation. (That and a touch of human sloth.)

Preaching, tirades, and name calling will not help the dogs of my state. And, the dogs need your help! Practice kindness and education towards the Mayor, and through him educate Leola. Provide helpful links and share your knowledge. For other towns in South Dakota have contact Mayor Schock wanting copies of the Breed Specific Legislation for their own use. Impending regional tragedy has been unleashed. If we can't convince citizens of the Heartland to protect their treasured freedoms, how can we win against big government?

A Final Thought:

To the people of Leola: Love Dogs! Hate Dogs! It makes no difference. This is also about responsibility, basic freedom, and setting a dangerous precedent for government and law enforcement, which will be open to all forms of abuse. Hold people to their obligations to raise animals that are not prone to aggression in the first place. (No chains, no cruelty, spay / neuter . . .) Hold all levels of government to the highest standards when protecting rights of individual Americans. Once police can enter our homes and kill our pets on suspicion of a lineage, there are few lines the government will not be able to justify crossing. Don't let fear erode your Freedom. Find a better way!

City of Leola
602 3rd St
Leola, SD 57456

A Final Final Thought:

A study by the Centers for Disease Control, "Which Dogs Bite?" found that chained dogs are 2.8 times more likely to bite. The dogs most likely to bite are male, unneutered, and chained. Neither 'unneutered' or 'chained' is a breed. They are human failings. Any dog can become aggressive if the owner is irresponsible.

Okay, so it's still too long. At least this article had half the satire and 30% fewer calories than my ordinary chapters.

Zoologist Nola Lee Kelsey is the author of 'Dogs: Funny Side Up!' (October 15, 2008), 'Let's Go Visit Best Friends Animal Sanctuary' (January 2008), etc . . . Read more at http://www.NolaKelsey.com

Symptoms of a Sick Dog

2008-06-15T07:34:00.000-07:00

Everyone who owns or has owned a dog has had their dog show signs of illness. Many vets will tell you that it would be so much easier to diagnose symptoms of sick dogs if they could just talk. Being that is not the case one has to carefully observe outward symptoms of dog diseases in order to make a proper diagnosis. If you feel that your dog is in serious stress including breathing problems, collapse and loss of consciousness, had direct contact with poisonous snakes, plants or insects, ingested poison like antifreeze or involved with serious trauma you need to contact your vet immediately for consultation and assistance.

All dogs will at some time in their lifetime exhibit some symptoms of sick dog. If you have had your dog properly vaccinated including yearly or bi annual rabies vaccinations you vet will normally do a good complete exam to assure there are no obvious symptoms of dog diseases. Most of the time this will include examining a stool sample and blood work. This is the time to bring up any concerns or observed problems that you have about your dog's health. It is wise to write down any observations that you have made prior to the exam. If you follow these procedures the chances of your dog having a serious problem will be greatly diminished. However even a properly cared for canine can develop serious symptoms of sick dog.

Symptoms of sick Dog may include some of the following:

· Strong Ear smell, shaking of the head, discharge: Mites, Yeast infection or Mites.
· Coughing: Heartworms, Kennel cough, Heart disease or pneumonia.
· Passing Blood in Urine: Internal injury, Kidney disease or Urinary tract infection.
· Bad Breath/Bleeding Gums: Periodontal disease.
· Constipation/Problems defecating: Change of diet, intestinal blockage.
· High Temperature (over 102): Viral or bacterial infection
· Increase Drinking and Urination: Diabetes, Kidney Disease or Liver Disease.
· Problems Urinating: Kidney stones or Kidney Disease.
· Blood or Worms in feces: Bowel infection, Worms or other parasites.
· Vomiting/ ingesting grass or other vegetation: Worms, Poison or gastrointestinal problems.

It should be understood that most pets will show one or more symptoms of sick dog at the same time. Make sure you keep notes of the symptoms you have observed including the time of each incident. All will assist your vet in making a proper diagnosis of your dog's illness. Many times these symptoms will pass without further complications. If symptoms of dog diseases persist for more than 24 hours or you dog shows signs of obvious stress then it is time to act. Any time you feel that you have a valid concern you should call your vet for a consultation or appointment. Dogs deserve that same amount of respect and health care as any other member of your family.

James Kesel, MS is the publisher of the Career in Dog Training website located at http://www.dog-training-careers.com - Providing information on Symptoms of Sick Dog and Symptoms of Dog Diseases.

Pomeranian Litter Box Training Tips You Should Consider

2008-06-14T07:55:00.001-07:00

Housebreaking a Pomeranian is not easy and some owners even admit that in extreme cases some owners have given up. But always remember that housebreaking a Pomeranian is not a simple task and it can even take months to get it right. In some cases owners will give up and use Pomeranian litter box training in what they consider to be only a temporary measure in their housebreaking. Be warned that as much as you may think it is temporary your Pomeranian may not look at it that way.

Before you even consider Pomeranian litter box training you may first want to keep giving traditional housebreaking methods one more try. Sometimes the toy breeds will hide under couches or get into areas you may not look and that may be causing housebreaking issues. Make sure you try absolutely everything before resorting to Pomeranian litter box training as your housebreaking method.

If you are completely convinced that Pomeranian litter box training is what you need to do then get a litter box and then place it in the place where the dog has been soiling the most. Fill the litter box with shredded newspaper or some other organic fill. Do not use regular litter because they may eat it and get sick. Be prepared to clean the litter box regularly and still take the dog outside from time to time to continue the housebreaking training.

You can get your dog on a set feeding schedule so that you know when it will be needing to use the litter box, or you can just take it to the litter box every 45 minutes or so, to let your dog know that it is to use the litter box after eating. If there are accidents then clean them up and do not punish the dog. The dog will only respond to positive reinforcement so praise and reward it when it uses the litter box and avoid punishment at all times.

As your dog shows signs of getting used to Pomeranian litter box training then you can slowly start to move the box towards the door you want it to use to go outside. Once you get the litter box to the door start taking the dog outside and eventually, hopefully, you can get rid of the litter box so that the dog knows that the door is now its way to the bathroom. Be patient as any housebreaking with a Pomeranian takes time.

Be warned that once you start Pomeranian litter box training you may be stuck with a dog that only uses a litter box. To many owners this is better than the alternative of a dog that wets the carpet and that is why many stick with it. If you do not mind the idea of a dog using the litter box full time then you should be fine but many dog owners do not like this concept and that is why Pomeranian litter box training can be a bad idea.

Rosie Allan commends anyone how decides to adopt a pet from a rescue center. If you are looking for a good resource for Pomeranian training then this article can help. You can use this article in conjunction with dog training books.

Need Help With Your Boxer Puppy

2008-06-14T07:17:00.001-07:00

When you want to raise a boxer puppy, you have to know it is going to need your attention and have more care given to it. It is best that you find out everything you can about boxer puppies before you make a purchase that you may later regret. Find out about their eating habits, their lifestyles and even the quality traits... what makes them so desirable? There a few things to consider while you decide.

First, find out about boxer puppies character traits and their manners. You should know that if they are active, they won't want to sit in the corner all day, chained. Boxer puppies are like human babies; they need consistent attention and want to be cared for. However, if disregarded, they will become quite destructive. How it feels can have a positive or negative affect on its health. Be sure you take it to get regular exercise and try to play with him as often as possible.

Second, boxer puppies live life blithely so if you do not want anything broken, move it to another room where the puppy will not go. Boxer dogs are great playmates for children but never leave them alone together because the dog may accidentally hurt them.

Third, boxer puppies need to be around other people and animals including other pets. They love to intermingle with others so doing this at a young age is recommended. You want your dog to trust the right people so find the socialization environment that will help them learn how to trust those persons.

Fourth, boxer puppies do have a bit of shyness to them so make sure they are permitted to be around others in their young age. If you can, take him wherever you go including parks, pet stores or wherever dogs are accepted. Studies have shown that female boxers are much more aggressive than their male counterparts when they have not be trained right. Always keep this in mind before purchasing two puppies for one household.

Fifth, they may be known for many of their positive traits but they can become unruly when they are not punished. Be sure to utilize obedience-training classes to get the most of out of your boxer puppy but especially his/her companionship.

Six, they do have high levels of energy so they should be exercising on a regular basis. By not giving him/her this needed attention, they can destroy things that are in their paths and be very twitchy. If you need to leave for some time, give your boxer puppy more space than usual. You can burn off some of that energy by talking them for walks and playing with them.

Lastly, before you purchase your new companion, do some checking on their parents. Find out what kinds of problems they may have had. Doing so can give you an idea of what your puppy can be like.

Jason Rusch is a Boxer Dog owner and enthusiast that has guided many Boxer owners through the essential steps of training and caring for their Boxer. To find out more about what it takes to train your boxer puppies properly, take a look at http://www.boxerdogessentials.com/blog

Important Information About Boxer Dogs

2008-06-14T07:16:00.007-07:00

If you plan on getting a boxer for a pet, then you should know that the American Kennel Club ranks the canine at number seven for the most popular dogs in the United States. If you are sure that having a boxer is the way to go, then keep in mind a few things.

When you are ready to buy your new family addition, make sure you buy from a professional reputable breeder. If not, check out the pet stores for your new family member. However, be sure you find out if your pet store uses reputable breeders to purchase their animals. Pet stores are known to deal with unidentified breeders. By checking out the pet store and who they deal with, you'll know if you are getting an authentic boxer puppy/dog.

If you deal with a reputable dealer to purchase your puppy/dog, you can be certain that the one dealer you do business with will abide by the boxer dog standards set forth. They know the recommendations for breed, traits, colors, size and health. Reputable breeders can give you documents and pictures about the parents of your newly acquired boxer. Finding out about the parents, gives you an idea of how your boxer may or may not act.

Some breeders have been in business for quite some time. For this reason, they will have tons of experience. If you have questions that need to be answered, they should be able to answer your concerns. These dealers are usually involved with respectable dog breeding clubs or very active in the organization of dog shows.

If you are buying a boxer to place in shows, then these breeders can help you find a boxer that has winner "written" all over it. They should know what judges will look for in these animals.

If you aren't looking for a champion but just want a family dog, then your best way to get one is through an animal shelter. Be aware that a quarter of these homeless dogs are purebred. You also pay less through an animal shelter than a breeder. Remember when you go through an animal shelter, you also save a canine life.

Purebred does not always entail a dog's pedigree but how it looks too. Most boxer dogs have a fawn or brindle colored coat. However, there are some that have white flecks which are called "flash". These should not cover the pup any more than one-third of its body.

If you aren't looking for a boxer to put into shows or breed, then you may want a white boxer puppy. These pups, however, can be deaf and/or blind.

If you want a boxer dog that is quiet and forbearing, then you want a male boxer dog instead of a female one. Female boxers can be hostile towards other females. For this reason, you need to be choosey about the one you bring home with you.

Jason Rusch is a Boxer Dog owner and enthusiast that has guided many Boxer owners through the essential steps of training and caring for their Boxer. To find out more about what it takes to train your boxer puppies properly, take a look at http://www.boxerdogessentials.com/blog

Helpful Boxer Puppy Tips

2008-06-14T07:16:00.005-07:00

If you want a boxer puppy, you can purchase one from a reputable dealer, local pet stores and even common breeders. However, using a trustworthy dealer is wise because they are proverbial with selective breeding, know about pedigrees varieties and the boxer character traits. Boxer dogs are increasingly getting popular so those who have little knowledge about them are involving themselves in the breeding process. Unfortunately, those without any knowledge have no idea the likely problems that come from breeding.

Boxer breeders are usually chosen over other places to buy the dogs because they have a familiarity of all breeds and their troubles. However, the breeders look for ways to change those negativities. If you find a Kennel Club breeder, the chances of finding a reputable breeder are good. Still, there are some that are not. Breeders are genuinely concerned about the dogs. You should know that most pet stores and common breeders do not give assurances or guarantees to the health of the boxer puppy.

Until a boxer puppy reaches 21 days of life, they won't do much more than sleep, eat and play. You probably already know that boxers are extremely loving. While this may be, they still need to be trained for obedience so it can grow up to be compliant, sociable grown-up dog. It is best to teach the dogs while they are young so it can be all you want it to be when it gets older.

Boxer dogs can follow the trouble-free instructions of "sit" and "come" especially when the puppy is still quite young. When you give them these commands early on, you make it easier on yourself to discipline it and form an everlasting bond. There are common guidelines and fundamental rules that should be followed so your boxer will learn all you need it to learn much faster. You also want to avoid confusing the animal. Remember that timing is everything. If you give a command, the puppy needs to know that the response should be immediate and not made later on.

Any training and quality time you give your boxer puppy it will remember. When you are training your puppy, you want to remain unswerving. Your puppy will not always obey your commands (even though it should), yet you should not chastise it if it does not. If you can, bribery in the forms of treats and rewards should be used when your pup does obey your command. When the puppy follows your command, give it some praise too. Your goal is to move forward with the commands so do not use any negative techniques that make any sort of circumstances worse. As your puppy gets older, you should add to his obedience training.

If you want a positive response, you should know that dogs have a predisposition to follow the leader. If you want your puppy to listen to you, be the leader it follows. Be sure to stay relaxed so your boxer will be confident and self-confident later on. Use short commands with your puppy and try to use the same tone of voice. If your training is straightforward, it will go much smoother.

Jason Rusch is a Boxer Dog owner and enthusiast that has guided many Boxer owners through the essential steps of training and caring for their Boxer. To find out more about what it takes to train your boxer puppies properly, take a look at http://www.boxerdogessentials.com/blog

Facts You Should Know About Boxer Dogs

2008-06-14T07:16:00.003-07:00

According to the American Kennel Club, boxer dogs are the seventh most popular dog in the United States. If you are sure you want a boxer dog, then you need to know some things before you go out and purchase one.

Buy your boxer for a reputable dealer if you can. If not, when buying from a pet store, find out how they purchased their animals. Did they buy the pups from a breeder they are familiar with? You want to be sure that the puppy you get is healthy and from good stock. Sometimes pet stores have a tendency to deal with shady breeders as well.

Know that when you buy a boxer dog from a reputable dealer, they will stand by the norms and standards required of boxer dogs. This includes respect for uniformity, character traits, color, size and health. By them doing this, you are assured a loving, healthy boxer. Another reason people should go with reputable dealer is that they will have all the documentation you want and even pictures of the puppy's parents. By checking out the parents, you can find out if there are any qualities you may not want in your boxer... aggressive behavior or tendency to be shy.

If a reputable dealer has been in business for a while, then they will have experience dealing with boxer dogs. They know what to expect regarding their behavior and their traits. They can offer your professional advice. Most times, these dealers have joined a respectable club or they have some involvement with dog shows.

These breeders can also help you select a boxer dog that is worthy of being a champion. They usually know what will make a judge's head turn so they can help you out in your decision.

Although many people do not deal with them, animal shelters are another wonderful place to go for a pet. About a quarter of these animals are purebred and the fees you pay for your animal will be much less than that of a dealer or pet store. Not only that but you save a life in the meantime.

You have to understand that purebred refers not only to the dog's pedigree but to its appearance too. If you want a good-looking boxer dog, the dog should have a fawn or brindle color-looking coat. If there are any white spots on the pup, there should be no more than a third on the entire body.

While saying this, if you want to buy a white boxer dog for a pet, they are usually deaf, blind or both. These animals are also not allowed for breeding by the American Boxer Club.

According to records, male dogs are usually much soother and lenient than female boxers. They are usually hyperactive and hostile. It is best not to have more than one female in the household, as they are aggressive to other females.

Jason Rusch is a Boxer Dog owner and enthusiast that has guided many Boxer owners through the essential steps of training and caring for their Boxer. To find out more about what it takes to train your boxer puppies properly, take a look at http://www.boxerdogessentials.com/blog

Boxer Dog Health Problems You Need to Know About

2008-06-14T07:16:00.001-07:00

If you want a boxer dog, you should know the health problems that they can suffer from. This breed of dogs can last up to 10 years of age but they can have a shorter life if they are afflicted with a major health problems. There are three particular ones that can be quite devastating. These are: cardiomyopathy, SAS and CHD. Since you care for your pet like a member of the family, it is important for him/her to be checked out once a year. Should your boxer be suffering from a disease, the best thing you can do for him/her is catch the problem early. Your vet can do very detailed exams for cardiac problems, hip dysphasia and thyroid issues. They can also tell you if your boxer is suffering from uncommon health problems including degenerative myelopathy or a brain tumor.

Boxer dogs can suffer from five very frequent genetic conditions. They are aortic stenosis or sub-aortic stenosis (AS, SAS), hyperthyroidism, hip dysplasia, boxer cardiomyopathy and corneal dystrophy.

AS or SAS

If your boxer dog seems to get tired easily or you notice faint heart murmurs, then he/she could be suffering from aortic stenosis or sub-aortic stenosis. This condition occurs when the aorta tightens, lessening the blood flow throughout the body including the heart. When there is a restriction of blood flowing through the body, the heart has to work even harder. The vet can diagnose this condition for you and your pet.

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism is a genetic condition that can alter the way your pet looks and acts. Some of the more common symptoms include: the loss of the hair, persistent skin conditions, stunted growth and a lifestyle that is slow. Hyperthyroidism can be treated with medications so that the thyroid begins functioning correctly.

Hip dysplasia

Among many other common ailments boxer dogs suffer from is hip dysplasia. When the boxer's hip joints seem to wear out, he/she is likely to be in a fair amount of pain and have severe rigidity. This situation is compounded worse as the dog matures until old age. There is no cure for hip dysplasia and if the problem is too severe, a hip replacement may be necessary.

Boxer cardiomyopathy

It can be very scary to learn that your pet as boxer cardiomyopathy. Only when you learn it, it is likely you'll be burying your dog. Cardiomyopathy is deadly because it causes the heart to beat unusually. Usually noticed in dogs of mature age, a vet's routine exam is likely to overlook this fatal condition. As a pet owner, you should ask your vet to do an exam explicitly looking for this problem.

Corneal dystrophy

When your boxer dog has been diagnosed with corneal dystrophy, do you know what that means? It is a condition that causes the corneas of the eyes to be uneven. If there is unevenness, ulcers can appear, causing complete blindness or have vision loss. You can do pain management techniques or even have surgery to correct the condition.

Jason Rusch is a Boxer Dog owner and enthusiast that has guided many Boxer owners through the essential steps of training and caring for their Boxer. To find out more about what it takes to train your boxer puppies properly, take a look at http://www.boxerdogessentials.com/blog

"Dog Care" - The Reason For Dog Training

2008-06-14T07:15:00.005-07:00

The only way to keep up with the latest about "Dog Care" and dog training is to constantly stay on the lookout for new information. If you read everything you find about "Dog Care" and dog training, it won't take long for you to become an influential authority.

Dogs have always been called man's best friend. However, we all know how best friends are made. People who arrive at being best friends go through a lot of conflicts and troubles before they understand each other enough to stand on a common ground. A dog and a human being are no different, especially with them being poles apart in language and origin. If you want your dog to truly be your best friend, then you are going to have to train it.

Dog care - To get started, think of your dog as your child. I know it might sound strange, but I'm serious here. You see, a child needs to be trained well to be able to grow up and function effectively as a productive member of the society. Can you imagine what you would have on your hands if you fail to train your child? A wild rebellious teenager! A dog is pretty much the same when it isn't trained properly. It can be infuriating to have a dog that does not seem to care about a single thing you do or say.

Dog care and training are processes that binds you and your dog. Without it, there would be no sense in having a dog. The fact that you are a human being and your dog is a dog automatically demands dog training. Both you and your dog speak different languages. Your dog is not a verbal creature but you are. Without dog care and training, you will be unable to communicate your needs and desires to your dogs and your dog will be unable to understand you too.

How can you put a limit on learning more? The next section may contain that one little bit of wisdom that changes everything about your knowledge of "Dog Care" and dog training
Dog care and training are much for your benefit as it is for your dog because you get to learn the best way to read your dog's non-verbal signals and teach it to understand your own verbal messages. Without dog training, both you and your dog will practically have your wires crossed!

Apart from the fact that dog care and training helps both you and your dog understand each other, it also helps to bring out the best in your dog. Dog training helps to enhance a dog's innate abilities and makes it a better dog. In essence, dog care and training enables you to enjoy your dog to a considerable extent and for your dog to enjoy you as well. It also helps you find that common ground with your dog that fosters the best of relationships between man and dog is dog care.

There's no doubt that the topic of "Dog Care" and dog training can be fascinating. If you still have unanswered questions about "Dog Care" and dog training, you may find what you're looking for in the next article.

Charles Neshah writes insightful articles on dog obedience training at How To Train A Dog And Definition Of Cross-Contextualization In Dog Training.

Luxury Dog Beds - A Great Way to Provide Comfort to Your Pet

2008-06-14T07:15:00.003-07:00

Keeping a pet may be one of the likings that you have, but only the few people who consider it a passion take care of every big or small provision of the pet. Providing a separate place to the dog for resting is done but if you want to pamper him well, get your pet one of the luxury dog beds that are available.

There are many options available in the market when you start searching for a luxury retreat for your pet. You can pay attention to the size of your pet and also his general habits whether he prefers to cozy in and sleep or prefers a large place where he can sleep with comfort.

You can choose for the smaller canines from the options like small basket beds, cave like beds etc which provide utmost comfort and cosiness to the pet as these pets require a comfortable place. Usually the smaller pets spend more time in the hands of the owner than not. So it is important that they are given some time for themselves too and that should be in their own private space.

Also, for the larger pets, there are many types of beds that are available. Floor pillow style beds are often liked by the canines. But there are other styles too which provide high degrees of comfort. Chaise style, Cushion style round ones, Louis styled ones etc are also available.

Wooden beds are also available which are most convenient when you have a pup which will grow into a large pet. You can choose the wood and the design which compliments your house as well. Designer beds are also available with which even your dog can make a style statement.

Beds made of fleece which provides great comfort and warmth in winters, are also available. Also, unique beds which have great designs, looks and are made of soft materials are also available.

You can easily order for these beds now through the online mode. The style which you like can be ordered. Customization according to your requirement can also be done. Also there are many offers and benefits available through the online mode.

Getting the perfect bed for your pet is now important and called for. After all it's your pet and should live in great opulence with luxury dog beds.

Mark Joness is the content author of the Dogs Center. After studies at the University of Alabama, he has been involved in teaching english and creative writing. Mr. Jones writes informative topics related to dogs and their breeds. To find Dog beds, Small dog beds, Luxury dog beds, Cheap dog beds, Wooden beds must visit http://www.dogscenter.net/

In Dogs, Early Cancer Detection is Important!

2008-06-14T07:15:00.001-07:00

I know that cancer is a word that we presume affects humans far more than it does affect our pets. However, our dogs as they age are very prone to many types of cancers. From the tip of your dog's nose to the very end of its tail, your dog is vulnerable to cancer.

According to Dr. Margaret McEntree, an associate professor of oncology at the Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine, it is estimated that 50 percent of all dogs over the age of 10 years will have cancer as the cause of death. And that 25 to 30 percent of all dogs will be stricken with some type of cancer during their lives.

Dogs like people are living longer due to the advances in vaccines, better nutrition and medical care. All dogs are at risk and the risk is dependent on breed, gender and genetics, along with nutrition (diet) and exposure to certain environmental conditions.

As an owner, it is our job to be on the lookout for any unusual signs that might be an early warning condition. Cancer can affect any area of a dog's body.

Some signs to look for are:
# constant lameness or stiffness

# unusual odor

# trouble swallowing or eating

# discharge or bleeding from any part of the body

# weight loss or loss of appetite

# sores that do not heal

These are just some common signs that may or may not indicate cancer, but they are signs to urge you to take your dog to the vet, for a more thorough check up.

Many dogs get lumps and bumps that are not signs of cancer, many of these are just benign tumors that for the most part can be ignored after they are checked out by your vet. I am not saying ignore a lump or bump, I am saying your vet should check them out and then many can be ignored.

The most prevalent types of cancers are:
# Lymphoma: A malignancy that most commonly affects the peripheral lymph nodes, but can also affect lymphatic tissue throughout a dog's body. The early signs are noticeable swelling of the lymph nodes under the jaw or shoulder region. If not treated the disease will spread and eventually death will occur.
# Skin Cancer: Usually small growths that are often benign, but can invade other tissues and organs and spread quickly. Dogs can get skin cancer from too much exposure to the sun similar to what humans can get. There are several types of skin cancer, so it is important if your dog has any type of sores that do not heal, you call your vet at once.
# Mammary Gland Cancer: A disease of older non-spayed female dogs. Tumors develop under the dog's nipples and can spread eventually to the lymph nodes, the liver, lungs and other areas of the body. This is the most avoidable form of cancer that can be prevented by having your female dog spayed at an early age.
# Oral Cavity Cancer: Effects the upper and lower parts of the jaw along with the superficial linings of the mouth. Early signs are bleeding from the mouth, really bad breath, and pain while eating or drinking. These tumors can take the form of persistent sores as well as lumps within the mouth.

Every pet owner should at least once a month groom their pet by checking over its entire body and look for any unusual formations. This only takes a few minutes and can save your dog's life and you a bundle of money in vet bills. Most cancers can be treated if found early with the exception of lymphoma.

A once a year check up is sufficient for young dogs, but dogs older than 8 years should go to see the vet at least twice a year. This check up should include complete blood work, a chemistry panel and urinalysis, along with an X-ray of the thoracic region (between the dog's neck and diaphragm.)

Taking the time to check your dog over at least once a month cannot be emphasized enough, those few minutes can be a lifesaver for your dog and your pocketbook

If this article has been of benefit, please visit my web site and blog at http://www.cats-and-dogs-on-the-web.com

When Fido Can't Play Fetch - Ways to Keep Your Pet Happy and Healthy

2008-06-14T07:14:00.000-07:00

Perhaps you've noticed your beloved Benji is slowing down a bit lately. He's not interested in playing fetch any more, he's lagging behind on your daily walks or he's simply tired and despondent. If you've noticed any of these symptoms, your precious pup may suffer from arthritis... and he's not alone.

Many pets, particularly dogs and especially larger breeds, will develop some form of joint disease during their lives. In fact, some estimates place the number of pets affected by arthritis and related diseases at 30%. The problem may be mild and, perhaps, go unnoticed by the pet owner, or it may be utterly debilitating, adversely affecting the pet's quality of life and - in the worst cases - causing complete lameness. The majority of cases, however, fall somewhere in between these two extremes.

What can a caring pet owner do to decrease the pain and keep Fido in peak health? The options are many. Here are a few.

Weight management.

Like the human body, the bodies of animals suffer when forced to carry excess weight. While it may be tempting to give your pampered pooch fatty table scraps and other delectable treats, try to avoid the urge! Unless your dog is extremely active, regular consumption of such "treats" can lead to overweight, stressing the hips and legs. Your veterinarian can recommend a high-quality dog food geared to your pet's needs or you can take advantage of the multitude of information at your local pet superstore.

Exercise.

Daily exercise is good for Lassie and for you... in fact, it's essential! Look for exercises that provide a good range of motion in the limbs and build muscle while limiting wear and tear on joints. Swimming, very slow jogging or speed walking and going up and down stairs are great options for low-impact exercise. If your pet has already shown symptoms of osteoarthritis, designing an individualized exercise program is key. Again, consult your veterinarian for help in this area.

Medical Treatment.

There is no cure for arthritis - in people or animals - but treatment options for joint diseases such as osteoarthritis have improved during the last decade thanks in great part to the introduction and approval of several new drugs. Just as humans benefit from NSAIDs for relief from pain and inflammation, animals do, too. Pain management using medication is one of the most commonly prescribed methods for dealing with severe osteoarthritis, as surgical options are far out of the budget for many families.

Supplementation.

For animals? Sure! While there are many options, the most effective is regular supplementation with top-quality glucosamine and chondroitin. Glucosamine and chondroitin are two supplement ingredients that have grown in popularity in treating animals and humans for joint disease. These products have been so successful, in fact that they are among the most popular products for arthritis management today.

Whereas NSAIDs and other medications work to kill pain, these two supplements actually heal existing damage to joint cartilage and contribute to the creation of new cartilage. There are many products on the market, but all are certainly not created equal. Which to choose?

Syn-flex for Pets. This premium formula has been reported to show significant improvement within 2 to 3 weeks, in even the most severe cases of osteoarthritis. Moreover, unlike prescription medications, Syn-flex for Pets has no serious side effects.

Liquid delivery of pharmaceutical-quality Glucosamine Sulfate and Glucosamine HCL, allows for a full 80%-85% absorption rate and results in maximum bioavailability and quicker relief. While similar products contain only Glucosamine, or at most three or four ingredients, there are eleven ingredients in Synflex, all working synergistically to effectively manage osteoarthritis, aid in rehabilitating damaged cartilage, promote healthy joints and reduce inflammation.

Then you have the simplicity of dosing your pet once a day with a liquid that many pets will take readily or you can mix it with their food. Synflex is sold worldwide and the number of pets benefitting from daily use is growing leaps and bounds with Veterinarians recommending it by name.

To learn more about this exciting product, developed especially for your treasured pet, visit http://www.syn-flex-usa.com

Homemade Dog Food - Tips to Tempt the Fussy Eater

2008-06-14T07:13:00.000-07:00

You've spent hours reading books and articles; you've subscribed to dog food related forums; you've found some recipes that look yummy enough to eat yourself; you've been shopping for beautiful fresh ingredients. Now you are all ready to start feeding homemade dog food. So you cook up a treat that smells delicious, and then you hit a snag: your precious pooch doesn't want to eat it!

Relax: it's not necessarily your cooking that's at fault! If your dog has only ever had kibble, then it may take him a while to get used to homemade dog food. Here are five tips to help him learn to enjoy real food.

Be sneaky: Introduce the new dog food gradually by mixing a little into his normal food, increasing the new food slowly over a period of days. Homemade dog food is a new experience for him in texture as well as flavour, so it's hardly surprising if he takes some time to adjust.

Too hot? Remember to let recently cooked food cool to room temperature before offering it to your dog. Check that there are no "hot spots" in the middle of the meal, especially if you have used the microwave.

Let him get hungry: Remove uneaten food after about ten minutes. Your dog does not need to snack or "graze": he is not a sheep. If you are trying to encourage him to eat something new, he will be much more interested if he has had the chance to actually get hungry. A dog's natural eating pattern is to eat a big meal when the opportunity presents itself, then to rest. Regular meals only became part of canine life after mankind domesticated the first wolf. It is OK to feed your adult dog only once or twice a day.

Boost the flavour: try a sprinkle of grated parmesan, or a drizzle of tasty stock. If it smells delicious, you have the game half won. If you are introducing raw meat and your dog isn't keen, try quickly browning the outside of the meat before you offer it to him, until he gets the idea.

Competition: If you have another dog, or even a cat, try feeding the two of them together: psychology can work wonders. If all else fails, try pretending you are eating some of the dog food yourself. This always works for me. Most dogs seem convinced that if the food is on the human plate it must be something special! The last resort might be to actually share something with him that you really are eating: I never knew a dog that could resist a piece of sausage.

Whatever you do, don't give up. When your dog has been eating homemade dog food for a few weeks and you can see the improvement in his well being, you'll be glad you persisted.

Sue French comes from a family of successful dog breeders and trainers and has been involved with dogs all her life. In 2006, Sue changed her dog's diet to homemade food, which resulted in a miraculous improvement in the dog's health. This inspired Sue's passion for "real food" for dogs. For more information about homemade dog food and dog nutrition, visit Sue's blog at http://thedogfoodstory.com

Cat Behavior and Cat Hunting Tendencies

2008-06-10T08:14:00.001-07:00

Imagine some sophisticated hunting machine and individuals will surely think of their beloved cats. Cats are natural hunters and they possess all the physical tools, and proficiencies, required to chase the prey. They have adequate speed, athleticism, flexibility, and killer instinct, which are essential characteristics of a sharp hunter.

However, cats are not born hunters, who kill for food. Instead, tracing, killing and hunting are learned behaviors. Possibility of hunger cannot drive or teach a feline to kill the prey. A feline may be a skilled mouse hunter and yet may never eat a mouse or wish to eat it anytime. They consider rat killing as a play.

Many domestic cats also are good rodent and bird hunters. However, they may not hunt them daily. If foods served by the pet owners are not adequate, cats hunt rodents or birds to gratify themselves.

Hunting Lessons:

Kittens develop the basic skills of chasing the prey right from their birth. They learn the skill of coordinating, chasing, and timing while playing. They become skilled in adjusting their speed with the speed of prey. They pounce on the prey by guessing the distance. Thus, playing enables the cats and kitten to learn and make judgments through experience.

As the kitten grows up, mother feline teaches the young cats to kill for eating. The first lesson involves bringing the dead prey at home and eating it in front of the young cats. Soon, they too join her. At the end of first lesson, mother cat brings the dead prey and places it in front of the kittens, so that they can eat it themselves.

However, most people who have cat in their house often see that female cat brings the prey and drops it in front or at the feet of the cat owner's child. This is particularly seen in spayed female cats, because by this way she tries to teach the lessons to human child, which otherwise she might have done for her own kittens.

The second lesson in hunting is bringing the dead prey partly in house. The female cat then finishes off the prey in front of her kittens. Later, she allows kittens to practice these skills and teach them to kill the wounded or slow prey.

Gradually, cats bring more kills at home until kittens become expert in these skills. Finally, kittens accompany the mother cats. They hunt, and slay the preys themselves.

Tendencies:

Cats are efficient hunters, but pet owners may have noticed that, their cats often torture their prey before slaying it. Some say it is because of lack of self-confidence in them. Cats are anxious that their preys are not dead completely and may fight back or bite them at any moment.

Domestic cats often get desired food to eat and their natural behavior to hunt is usually decreased considerably. As a result, cats play hunting by wiggling the toes, ears, and fingers of the humans. Thus, house cats chase the imaginary prey and they run up, down across the house, drapes, and tables and wrack things in this process.

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 http://www.catandkittenzone.com

Domestic Cats and Feral Cats - The History of Cats

2008-06-10T08:14:00.000-07:00

The first appearance of the domesticated cat according to original reports goes back as far as 8,000 years ago. According to findings, during that era, bones of mice, humans and cats were buried mutually on the isle of Cyprus. Apparently, people then brought together with them the mice, which were unwanted, and the cats to Cyprus.

Domestication Of Cats:

Agriculture was not only the main occupation of the Egyptians, but also of the southwestern Asian primitives and folks of Africa, where cats appeared afterwards. Since harvesting crops was possible only once or twice every year, it became difficult to store the food-eating grains. The entry of mice, rats and other pests only added to the difficulty.

Soon people observed that the cat population ate the rodents that destroy the food grains.
People invited cats into their daily lives very courteously after observing cats hunting rodents. Farmers used fish-heads, milk and bread and additional food scraps to attract and sway cats to hover around their homes. As a result, cats merely discovered an environmental place for themselves, a stable source of love, affection and food from human beings.

People remember cats for their illustrious position in history. Cats and Egyptians shared a unique relationship. Egyptians possessed different varieties of animals like pigs, sheep, cattle, fowls and monkeys in ancient times. Cats, however unreservedly roamed the area according to its will.

Protection of Cats:

Egypt established laws to protect and safeguard cats, since people had a very high regard about them. A sacred order of cat reverence developed due to its high status that lasted for about 2,000 years. People in Egypt used to revere Bastet the cat goddess. Bastet had the head of a cat and the body of a female. Bastet was related with motherliness, elegance, beauty and fertility. In olden Egypt, people used to call a cat as a "Mau" resembling "meow" a common cat word.

There was a severe punishment for people who harmed or killed cats during the sovereignty of the Pharaohs. If a house was ablaze, it was imperative for the humans to think first about the cats. If the death of a cat was due to natural factors, then it was mandatory for the entire family to go into detailed mourning with beating of chests and recitation of slogans as an indication of pain.

It was necessary to wrap the cat's body in linen, and inspection was compulsory to ascertain that the cat's death was natural. Tombs of cats also had mouse mummies to ensure enough food for their next journey. Soon cats sailed to countries like India, Japan, China, Italy and Greece.

Other Historical Facts:

People used to torture and sacrifice cats in sacred rituals during the medieval ages. People regarded and scorned cats as Satan's members. Individuals considered black cats as a bad omen.

Due to the persecution of cats the number of rodents increased, plague arose and devastated life. It was then that cats received appreciation and they once again gained popularity by the eighteenth century.

Cats became extremely popular in the nineteenth century and cat exhibitions of various pedigrees began towards the ending of nineteenth century.

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 http://www.catandkittenzone.com

Cat Behavior and Cat Problems Discussed With Cat Training

2008-06-10T08:13:00.001-07:00

The cat's probable social behavior varies extremely from ferociously self-determining to compatibly outgoing with other felines. According to a few professionals a cat's social qualities are "in evolution" from self-dependent to mutually dependent.

In reality, a cat's behavior and resultant societal relations with other cats are dependent on factors such as population density of neighborhood cats, premature knowledge and the amount of food available in the vicinity.

Variation In The Population Density And Grouping Dynamics:

The family cat is a solitary seeker. It requires a large area to catch adequate prey, while scrounging for itself and it will protect that area from other cats too. From a study, it is revealed that a vicinity of sq mile (1 sq km) will sustain nearly five cats in the agricultural areas of Europe, North America and Australasia.

Altering circumstances such as new felines, absence of few cats or new people greatly affects the social dynamics of cats. Social acquaintances generally develop between females and kittens, and rarely by adult males in a characteristic assembly of tamed cats, who stay with humans. Cats settle differences normally by visual contact or occasionally by a swipe of its paw once, there is friendliness amongst cats residing in the same place.

When two cats meet up suddenly, the cat that has a higher status is generally the superior at that time. However, it might not be the same during the next meeting. Odor and well-being also affects the status of a cat. When a cat comes home after undergoing treatment at a hospital for some medical issue, sometimes a healthy household cat attacks it. Once a status is formed in a multi cat home, however differences are rare.

Behavioral Changes Caused By Food:

When food is available in plenty, social relations increase because the reasons for fighting decrease. Sparsely distributed hunting cats exhibit defensive gestures rather than social while well-fed cats in neighborhood areas usually exhibit outgoing social interactions. Household cats are the friendliest, since food is aplenty at home.

The Importance Of Family And Matriarchy:

One should not expect a household cat to be pleased with the arrival of a new feline just because it gets plentiful food and it has a very easy life. It is nearly impossible. Cats can get along with one another only, if they share a blood relationship.

The other important thing is early castration. Although untamed male cats make very less social relations than females, neutered male cats make the same number of social contacts as neutered female cats. Neutering improves male feline relationships considerably.

The cat family is mostly matriarchal. Untamed cat population generally contains four or more blood-related feline generations. The most frequent social communication amongst females is licking rather than rubbing.

The mother, grandmother, sisters and other female members remove the male kittens from the colony as soon as they mature and exhibit rough play behavior. These males accompany other males, who generally hover around and prevent any unrelated male from coming near.

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 http://www.catandkittenzone.com

De-Clawing Cat and Cat Scratching Information on Prevention and Tips

2008-06-10T08:13:00.000-07:00

It is necessary for a person to think very carefully before putting a house cat indoors. This is because cats habitually scratch household furniture. Scratching is a standard feline behavior.

Cats living outside do not face this problem, since they hone their claws on trees and so on. The most important reason for cat scratching is that by doing so they mark their territory. They exercise themselves and remove dead nails by doing so. Scratching also makes them feel good.

Methods To Prevent Cat Scratching:

It is unreasonable and wrong to expect cats to end scratching. To prevent scratching, one needs to build or design a scratching post, provide suitable play toys and so on.
It will be beneficial to build scratching posts in areas where the cat spends most of its time, with one near the cat's resting area. The height of the post needs to be such that the cat is able to scratch it, while on its hind legs with extended forelegs.

The post also has to be very sturdy to prevent it from toppling. A scratching post having a corner is preferable so that the cats can scratch on both the sides. Some cats also like a horizontal scratching post.

Give special thought to the surface quality of the scratching post. Firmly woven fabrics often covers commercial scratching posts for permanence, but a cat generally like a slackly woven fabric, since its claws clasp and rip while scratching. A carpet covering is acceptable. It is necessary to ensure that no taut loops are present in it. Many cats favor sisal, a part of an old chair and even bare lumber for scratching. It is advisory to use a material that a cat prefers.

If this consumes a lot of time, then soft claws are another beneficial alternative. Individuals can apply these light vinyl caps over a cat's claw. These caps have curved ends and thus the scratching of a cat does not destroy one's home and fittings.
It is possible to prevent a cat's destructive scratching by cautiously trimming the sharp tips of the cat's claw. Two people can easily accomplish this task. One person holds the cat, while the other cuts its nails.

De-clawing:

Another solution to prevent cat scratching is de-clawing. This is however a very severe action and will harm the cat. People need to think of onychectomy, when the cat suffers a persistent infection, disturbing wounds or neoplastic disease.

Terms such as mayhem, mutilation, dismemberment and disjointing aptly define de-clawing. Unlike to what people think, the de-clawing surgery includes severing of the claws, the entire phalanges, joints, ligaments, bones, nerves and tendons.
Ten separate hurtful amputations involving the third phalanx and the last joint of every toe is done in the de-clawing surgery. Unlike the human fingernail, the cat's claw is a segment of the final bone in the toe.

Apart from de-clawing, other training methods are also present, which cat owners may try to employ their cats to avoid scratching indoors. Training is possible for all cats with some time, love and consideration.

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 http://www.catandkittenzone.com

Cat Health, Cat Care and Cat Food Information

2008-06-10T08:12:00.001-07:00

Cats need a high-protein diet, rich in fats. They normally eat small meals all through the day. Cats maintain their body weight by sticking to the diet they take in. To keep cats healthy, owners have to ensure that the foods they give to their cats are rich in minerals, protein and vitamins.

In addition, the diet needs to be limited. Increasing the food intake for cats may invite serious health problems.

Necessary Nutrients:

Cat owners need to check, if their pet food offers the following nutrients:

1. Pet food has to contain vital nutrients such as minerals and vitamins. One vital nutrient is Vitamin A and vitamin E, which helps to build resistance against a variety of diseases.

2. Animal protein from poultry, meat, egg sources and fish helps to keep bones sturdy and strong.

3. The diet needs to have accurate balance of fatty acids that nurture the skin and coat health.

4. Taurine, an amino acid, extracted from meat sources such as fish and chicken. This helps in keeping the eyes healthy and preventing heart diseases. Taurine supports fetal growth, development and reproduction in cats.

5. Next, a fiber source such as beet pulp, which maintains the digestive system of cats, is also a necessary nutrient.

Special Dietary Needs for Pregnant or lactating cats:

Pet owners have to take enough care of their pregnant cats. Increase their intake by 50 per cent than their current diets. The owner may give kitten food as a nutritional support to cats at the time of conception.

After the mother cat gives birth to young kittens, gradually increase the intake to 75 per cent. Maintain this diet until the kittens get used to eating canned or dry food. The moment kittens begin eating substitute food, incorporate the normal food again so that the mother cat keeps away from any weight gain.

Avoid Obesity:

Generally, indoor cats do not get the opportunity to exercise as compared to outdoor cats. Due to this, indoor cats fall prey to obesity. To avoid this, pet owners have to allow their cats to exercise in open the way they wish.

Preventing Cats from Developing Hairballs:

Cats take their own time to arrange themselves neatly. They constantly lick their fur and in the process, sometimes swallow hair. If the hairball fails to pass into the intestines, the cat may land in trouble. It may try to eject the hairball. To avoid this, pet owners have to make sure that they supply a nutritional diet to their cats.

What Every Cat Needs:

No matter what food they get to eat, owners need to make available plenty of water for their cats, always. It is advisable to place water at a distance three to five feet from the food.

This prevents the cat from swallowing water hastily. Cats demand comfortable place to eat and prefer to stay away from people around them. Last of all, the cat owners need to take their cats to the veterinarian at regular intervals. This will help in keeping pet cats healthy and happy.

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 http://www.catandkittenzone.com

Cat and Kitten Origin and History of Cat Information

2008-06-10T08:12:00.000-07:00

Curious, to know the origin of the word cat, then here is a brief history, which will help people to understand as how the word 'cat' originated. The English word cat was not into usage until 300 AD. It is very remarkable that, in numerous languages around the world, cat owners call this domesticated animal by the term (name), which is very alike the English word of cat or may be puss.

People consider that the name puss is originated from the Pasht, the ancient Egyptian Goddess. This Goddess had the head of cat. People looked on her as a darker reflection of Bast or Bastet, who was the creator or the mother of all felines in the universe. The Goddess sent all the cats to all corners of the Egypt. Hence, it led to the origination of the word puss.

Some tribes in Egypt called this goddess as Mau, which means the one who can see everything. Perhaps, this word also has much to do with the imitative reference to meowing of the cats. This typical voice matches up to the phonetic transcription of hieroglyph (primitive writing) of cats.

Detailed History:

In later years, Copts, the high priests of the church popularized the word chau. Therefore, people in the ancient Egypt later referred to cat as chau. Moreover, the term tomcat has very interesting etymology. Egyptians worshiped atoum, the sun god, which they compared to feline. Thus, it led to the formation of new term tomcat.

Studies reveal that another Greek tribe called cats as ailuros. This word was the combination of the terms aiol as well as ouros, which means wagging tail. People in Latin America referred wild cats as felis. People started domesticating the cats to get rid of rodents. The word felis got wide recognition around the world.

In later period, when people in Rome domesticated cats of orient breed, they used the word cattus instead of felis. In fourteenth century, when the agronomy treaty was signed in Palladius, commonly referred as De re rustica, the officials coined the word cattus for cats in scientific context. This word also appears in the Bible, but then they used this word for night bird. According to the Isidore of the great Seville, the word cattus originates form capture, which means to take or probably from cattare, means piercing look.

In seventeenth century, people called cats as murices, musio or murilegus, which means the one who catches the mice.

Cats In Other Languages:

Although, the word catus was in usage for long years, the originations of new languages lead to newer names for cats. In Portuguese and Spain, people call cats as gato, whereas in Italian languages people call cat as gatto.

In Slavic languages such as in Russian, people call cat as kochka. People refer cat as katze in Germany, cat in English, Chat in French, Cath in Welsh, Kitt in Arabic, Kot in Polish, Puccha in Sanskrit, Pushak in Persia, Puize in Lithuanian and Pus in Irish. Thus, this is all about the etymology of the word cat.

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 http://www.catandkittenzone.com

Feral Cat and Wild Cats Turned Into Domestic Cats

2008-06-10T08:02:00.000-07:00

Some ecologists say that the domestication of feral cat harms environment or ecosystem, as excessive population of feral cats result in large hunting of small birds and animals in both rural and urban areas.

Feral cats have a considerable effect on the environment, as these cats have put several native animals and species to danger and even death.

Even, people now consider feral cats as the most vicious creatures on small islands. Other species that are vanished on small islands include burrowing bettong and spectacled hare-wallaby. These animals were found once abundant on small islands.

Environmental Issues:

Researchers state that feral cats in the USA, every year, kill large population of animal and bird species, and hundreds of those in Florida. Thus, these cat breeds have great impact on environment as well as wildlife animal species.

This may result in disruption of food chain and limitation of local wildlife populations. In fact, feral cats in countries such as New Zealand and Australia have killed native birds and animals and have damaged the natural flora completely.

In Australia, feral cats have killed several wallabies, thus there is a considerable drop in the population of wallabies over the years. Many ecologists found that feral cats were to blame mostly for the dropping population of rock wallabies in a remote area of tropical Queensland.

Even though feral cats mainly depend on rabbits for their food source, they do little to lower the population, as the population of rabbits is as same as the amount of feral cats in Australia.

Not only the feral cats have a substantial effect on food chain, but they also affect the other local creatures by depleting their sources of food. These include the wedge-tailed eagle, hawks, the eastern quoll, reptiles such as the Lace Monitor and Goanna and the dingoes.

Feral cats eat nearly all those foods that are vital for other local species. Because of such huge population, not only these cats eat all other native species, but also provide nothing for other local species. In most regions, hawks and eagles have had to alter their routine diet to survive due to these cats.

Even, the native cats are in danger. Feral cats more often affect domestic cats such as Quoll. For instance, if feral cats come near female quolls, they become infertile. Here, people cannot help them out, but as there are several feral cats around, the best way to avoid is preventing domestic cats to outside exposure. A recent report study states that several female quolls have already become infertile and their populations are declining day-by-day.

Overview:

Feral cats also carry certain incurable diseases, which are fatal and harmful to other species, especially for the local marsupials. Toxoplasmosis is the name of one such disease, which causes paralysis, blindness, respiratory disorders, and loss of infantile because of stillbirth and impulsive abortion.

Feral cats are also the carriers of Rabies, a disease affecting not only animals and species, but also the human beings. It is more excruciating and devastating to the whole ecosystem.

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 http://www.catandkittenzone.com

Bonding With Your New Cat

2008-06-10T07:43:00.000-07:00

Bringing a new cat home for the first time can be a stressful period for both the cat and the family. From the families point of view, not knowing how the cat will react to its new surroundings and how to approach the cat for the first time can be a little worrying and if not handled correctly from the beginning could lead to behavioural problems further down the road. From the cat's point of view, they find themselves in strange surroundings, with strange smells, sounds, people and even other animals.

There are a few secrets to ensuring that the whole process is less stressful and scary for all involved. Firstly put yourself in the cat's position and empathise with their feelings and experiences of their new home. Secondly take things slowly, it may all be very exciting bringing home a new pet but if the situation is not handled calmly, quietly and slowly then bonding with your cat may be a process that takes far longer and may not happen at all if the cat sees you as a scary human.

Prepare your home for the arrival of your new cat in advance. Make sure you put aside a quite room where your cat can explore and become familiar with before encountering the larger environment. Make sure you place cat food and water, a litter tray (away from the food and bed), a bed and some toys in the room. Also the room should not be accessible to any other pets in the home.

Allow the cat to spend time alone in this room for the first 30 minutes after arrival then check on them to see if every thing is ok. Repeat this process for the first day, visiting regularly but not approaching the cat too quickly. During the next few days increase the frequency of the visits and begin to approach your cat to gain their confidence. This should be done by making yourself smaller, by kneeling on the floor, not looking the cat directly in the eyes and allowing the cat to approach you. Introduce a few games with balls and string, always going at yours cats pace and never forcing them to play or approach you.

Once you are sure that your cat has gained in confidence and is happy to be around you, you can then start to introduce other members of the family, including other animals. However introducing other pets should only be done once the cat has bonded with you and should never be done without supervision.

After about three to four days and when you feel happy that the cat has relaxed and is happy to be touched and stroked by you can you begin to allow your cat access to the rest of the home. Let them take it at their own pace and always give them access to their safe room if things get a little too scary for them and they can return to quickly. Most cats will settle down fairly quickly into their new family, some may take longer; it depends on their individual personalities and their previous life experiences.

The process may sound a slow one to begin with, but gaining the confidence of a cat is all-important from the start and they must feel that they can trust you and feel safe in the new home environment before they will settle down into happy pets. Once a bond has been established between you and your cat it will be a bond that will last a lifetime, providing many hours of companionship and comfort for you both.

More cat health and cat care tips can be found at our site http://www.our-happy-cat.com A feline friendly community full of helpful advice and fun things to do to make sure you have a happy cat and a happy you. Kate's second site http://www.frugal-living-tips.com promotes simple living and the reduction of waste and personal debt.

Copyright 2007 Kate Tilmouth

Cat Behavior - Why Do Cats Favor People Who Hate Them?

2008-06-10T07:42:00.001-07:00

It is hard for us humans to understand cat behavior which can seem very strange and weird. Like all animals, they want food and water, and all cats like a clean litter tray and will try to get our attention when they have a need, but why do they do so many other weird things? For example, why does your cat always want to jump onto the lap of a friend who hates cats, even when there are lots of cat lovers in the room who would just adore for it to be fussed by them?

The reason is linked to another typical aspect of cat behavior. Have you noticed your cat rubbing up against furniture and pushing its head inside things like cartons and spaces? When cats go into a new place for the first time, or into a room that has just been redecorated, they will brush along the walls and go all around behind and under everything as if they are curious to see what is in all the hidden spaces in your room.

In fact they are not being curious at all. What the cat is doing is putting its saliva on the objects in the room, so that its scent is on them. This makes it clear to it and any other cats that the room is your cat's territory and those objects are part of it. In cat terms, your whole house and everything in it belongs to the cat. So why don't you see the cat licking everything? Because it doesn't need to. A cat spends so much time licking its fur, that rubbing its body against something is enough to transfer its saliva and scent.

For the same reason it will rub against any strangers who come into your house, and do the same to you if you have been out any place where there were other cats. It seems like it is welcoming you home, and it is, in a way. It is making you its property again. You may sometimes feel that your cat owns you instead of the other way around. Your cat would agree wholeheartedly!

This is why cats seem to target people who have pet allergies or don't like cats. Your cat wants to make all of your visitors belong in its house by giving them its scent. Most people will happily let it rub around their legs as soon as they walk in the door, or stroke it or let it lick their fingers, and its job is done. Those people have been accepted and it can ignore them for the rest of their visit, unless they wash or change their clothes. But people who are allergic will avoid the cat, and so the laws of cat behavior require that it keeps on trying to get close to them!

That is the reason that cat seem to love people who hate them!

Brian Hill is a life-long lover of animals, and having had cats as pets for all his adult life, he is particularly knowledgeable of them. His last cat died a few weeks ago after a long (20+ years) life, and by caring for all the cats that he has had, he is very familiar with their habits, and especially of how to care for them. He has a website http://mycatcarestore.com where he has a variety of items that are especially geared towards the better care of cats.

Dying to Be Held

2008-06-10T07:42:00.000-07:00

If we were only $20.00 away from curing cancer, we would surely all clamor to be the one to complete the fundraising for the cure. Some of the ills of our society are that close to a cure. Ending the abuse of baby lions and tigers is one of them.

In 2005 The Chronicles of Narnia's computer generated animation of Aslan the lion captivated the imagination of all who witnessed the fantasy. The notion of being so special that the creature known as the King of Beasts would allow us to touch him became irresistible to many when they were allowed to act out their fantasy. It only cost them $20.00... and their conscience.

After paying $20.00 to have their picture made with a baby lion or tiger the vast majority of people, who learned the truth about the miserable lives captive cats lead, confess "I knew in my heart that there was something wrong..." Often it is the nagging conscience, reminding them of the distressed baby's cries for their real mothers, the barren accommodations, and the sleaziness of the business operators that haunted them long after the thrill of the moment had passed.

Most of the "pay to play" operations stay on the move. They set up in flea markets, fair grounds and parking lots for only a few days at a time. They frequently change their names and rarely own a facility anywhere that is open to public scrutiny. Then know that their pitch of doing this for education or conservation can easily be disproved. By the time they are found out, they are on the road again. In 2005 there were far too many lion and tiger babies bred just for this purpose and those who paid to touch them would be appalled if they knew how life has turned out for those innocent cubs.

Big cats can breed several times a year, giving birth to 2-6 cubs. The cubs are immediately pulled and bottle raised so that the mothers can be bred again. It was not unusual to see a circus-type side show offering the public the chance to handle cubs who were only days old. To keep the cubs small they are often starved, and deprived of the calcium and vitamins needed to build big, healthy bodies. In some cases cubs have been purposely poisoned to give them diarrhea so that they cannot put on any weight. Pound for pound a big cat is 12 times stronger than a man, so keeping them small and handlable is the main objective for these abusers. When they get too big to use, they disappear and there is virtually no way to track them. If the dealer has 10 tigers this year and 10 tigers next year, then it appears as if no births and no disappearances have happened, so no further investigation takes place. It is no coincidence that the US is the second largest consumer of illegal, black market tiger parts.

In 2007 USDA adopted a policy stating that baby big cats, under the age of 8 weeks and over the age of 16 weeks, could not be handled by the public. They also define a big cat as lions, tigers, jaguars, leopards, mountain lions, and cheetahs. Florida and some other states still classify a mountain lion as a small cat and allow them to be kept as pets, despite the fact that they can grow to be over 200 lbs and are very dangerous.

Many pseudo sanctuaries breed their big cats to attract donors and to lure volunteers who want to play with the babies. But in 2007 the US Fish and Wildlife Service announced: "Accredited wildlife sanctuary means a facility that cares for live specimens of one or more of the prohibited wildlife species and:

(1) Is approved by the United States Internal Revenue Service as a corporation that is exempt from taxation under Sec. 501(a) of the Internal Revenue Code;

(2) Does not commercially trade in prohibited wildlife species, including offspring, parts, and products;

(3) Does not propagate any of the prohibited wildlife species; and

(4) Does not allow any direct contact between the public and the prohibited wildlife species." (prohibited wildlife species incl. lions, tigers, leopards, snow leopards, clouded leopards, jaguars, cougars and cheetahs).

A lot can change in three years and there have been fewer and fewer news reports hawking the fun of touching a baby wild cat. Venues are becoming more aware of the public disdain for the practice and no longer want to be associated with what is now commonly viewed as cruelty. Every year there is a parade in Pinellas County, FL where a local man takes his tigers, bears and other exotic animals out in circus wagons as part of the spectacle. It has been a tradition that has gone from being accepted to being booed in just the last year. The operation owner and wildlife trapper, Vernon Yates was quoted in the St. Pete Times as saying, "I thought I would not see it in my lifetime but I think it's coming - any form of private (exotic animal) ownership will be gone." The public has become better informed and not only is refusing to support this abuse, but many people are coming forward to end it.

Innkeepers at the Sobotta Manor Bed and Breakfast, Robin and Thurman Hester, wrote Big Cat Rescue asking for help, saying, "I am an Innkeeper in Mount Airy North Carolina where an organization called The Zoo (owned by Pat & Robert Engessor) visited a few days back and they had as part of their show an eight week old tiger cub that was being handed to person after person to have photos made and was crying as in pain the entire time. Additionally when the cat was placed back in the pen it was too ill to even walk and had severe dysentery. They would just rinse its rear and hand to the next person. The condition of this baby was awful and I am afraid for its life. My friend, as well as others, witnessed the condition of this cub. I am from Tampa and am familiar with your organization and hope you can assist."

Paula Sabatke writes, "I live in northern Wisconsin and visited the Big Cat Rescue for the first time in December, although I have been a fan for years. I am sure that you hear these stories all to often, but I would like your help. This past weekend I attended a professional conference in the Wisconsin Dells at a large resort, the Kalahari. In the lobby, a private vendor was set up with a very young white tiger cub in a small glass enclosure. For a fee, one could pay to have a picture taken with the cub. This cub was about the size of a large house cat and could barely stand on its own. While I took the opportunity to tell anyone who would listen what a terrible and inhumane situation this was, I felt that I should be doing something more. Can you offer any suggestions?"

One of the heretofore most popular tourist attractions in Africa was the opportunity to pet baby lions. The operators of these lion farms have sold themselves as being conservation breeding programs so that people would feel good about doing something that they know in their hearts to be wrong. The Drakenstien Lion Park urges people to consider these facts, "These inbred, human imprinted and psychologically damaged animals have absolutely no conservation value. They cannot be rehabilitated into the wild. They cannot be used to supplement dwindling wild populations." The lion park, which rescues some cast off captive bred lions, further explains that the only use for these cubs, after they have grown up, is by the canned hunting ranches and says, "Every reputable animal welfare organization in the world considers the practice of using lion cubs for human playthings as cruelty."

Carole Baskin, Founder of Big Cat Rescue reports, "We respond to every one of these complaints and urge the witness to take pictures, videos and written statements about what they saw to the USDA, to the state agencies that monitor wildlife, and to the media to expose the awful way these great cats are being treated." They have been doing it and there has been a tremendous shift in the way people are thinking about and treating wild animals.

When the next Aslan the lion movie, Prince Caspian, opened in theaters May 17, 2008 there did not appear to be even one baby lion or baby tiger photo booth advertised across the nation. "We monitor the keywords: lion, tiger, cub, big cat and others via google news alerts and we closely monitor sites like www.911AnimalAbuse.com which is a site that allows people who have witnessed animal abuse to post a letter, photos and video while contacting USDA and the agencies mentioned above at the bottom of every page. We didn't see one report of a baby lion or baby tiger being used as a prop in conjunction with the opening of the movie," says Carole Baskin.

So near and yet so far. Exotic and endangered animals are increasingly in the mainstream news as experts such as the 43 member, International Tiger Coalition and the World Bank announced a launch in June of 2008 to save the tiger from extinction. These same groups compiled a petition of more than 125,000 signatures to ban tiger farming. And yet, at a restaurant in Florida on Memorial Day Weekend, the special was "lion steak" for $48.95 a plate because the lion, although in considerable peril, is not yet classified as endangered. To quote Harrison Ford in his public service announcement for Wildaid, a member of the International Tiger Coalition, "When the buying stops, the killing can too."

We are standing right on the edge of the societal shift toward being more compassionate. There is a bill before congress that will end the public contact with big cats and their babies and thousands upon thousands of people have written their lawmakers to support this bill to protect the babies from being bred, used and discarded as petting props. It is called Haley's Act (HR 1947) and is named after a 17 year old girl who was mauled to death by a tiger while posing for a photo. You can write a letter in support of the new law at www.CatLaws.com You can end this kind of animal abuse in your lifetime. The cure is only $20.00 and a letter away. Don't pay to play with a baby big cat and write your Congress today!

Carole Baskin, CEO of Big Cat Rescue
an Educational Sanctuary home
to more than 100 big cats
12802 Easy Street Tampa, FL 33625
813.920.4130 fax 885.4457

Cat Furniture - Give Your Feline the Style it Deserves

2008-06-10T07:41:00.000-07:00

Cats may be wondering just what happened. Once upon a time, they were revered as gods. In ancient Egypt, people worshiped cats as those who protected them from death. Somehow, that whole campaign changed over time and now cats, while still loved, are pretty much expected to be content with a food dish, litter box and a couple of toys.

But, it doesn't have to be that way. If you are a cat person, there is still time to let your feline know you appreciate him or her and understand that all cats are descendants of royalty.

One way to start this is to purchase some new pieces of cat furniture for your feline friend. If this is new territory for you, start simple.

Does your cat have a scratching post? For indoor cats, this is an essential piece of cat furniture. Not only will your cat appreciate having their own new piece of cat furniture, but also your people furniture will appreciate that the cats claws are steering clear of the upholstery.

The next step is cat trees. These are essentially carpet covered wood pieces that can be multiple levels of play for your cat. Many cats like to perch. Cat trees give them a chance to do this, climbing up varying levels of these cat furniture pieces to find the best perch for the moment. This type of cat furniture is great for an active cat because it offers a play area for the cat and can double as a scratching post for when they want to sink their claws into something.

If you are still feeling your kitty deserves a little more lavishing, we move to the next piece of cat furniture, cat houses and condos. These are a step up from cat trees in the respect that the levels of this cat furniture are enclosed, carpeted boxes that serve as small homes or beds for cats as they climb upwards.

If you really need to treat your cat like royalty, and your cat is open to all sorts of things, you may try specialty cat furniture. There are a number of cat beds and houses that are not the traditional wood and carpet variety. These houses and beds have been decorated to make your cat look like a celebrity. If you want your cat to feel like a king or queen, there are even cat beds and houses that look like thrones or crowns, so your feline can rest in style.

In addition to the cat furniture, don't forget a few extra cat toys. Just like kids, cats like variety in what they are playing with. Sure, they may have a favorite toy or two, but just ask your kids, it is always nice to have some extra toys to choose from. Cats think the same way. For bonus points, you may want to give your cat toys that are filled with catnip. If you haven't done this before, purchase a little, toss it out for your cat and then sit back and watch.

Author Jennifer Akre is an owner of different niche online stores that offer customers not only products, but information relating to furnishing and decorating indoor and outdoor living spaces. Whether you want to redecorate your living room or create the ultimate outdoor environment perfect for your pet, there is a lot of helpful advice to take advantage of to make it happen. Today, she shares her insight when investing in durable cat furniture, cozy cat houses and adventure-filled cat trees.

Training Your Pet Parrot

2008-06-09T07:39:00.000-07:00

Training your pet parrot can be a rewarding experience, just as training a dog or cat would. The difference with your pet parrot is that it can talk, or actually repeat the words that you taught the bird to speak. It will be much easier if your pet parrot was hand raised prior to its purchase, as compared to the bird being raised by its own parents.

Earning your bird's trust is the first step. Once that is established, work hard to keep it. Do not ever discipline your bird using force, because it will take a long time, if ever, for the bird to trust you again. Whenever you need to discipline a bird, look at it straight in the eye and say 'No' with a stern voice. If it continues to misbehave and start to make loud screams, cover its cage for a while.

Uncover the cage and watch your bird's behavior. Approach your bird slowly while looking straight at the bird's eyes. Slowly slip your hand into the cage and leave it there and watch the bird's reaction. If your parrot attacks you, keep doing this for the next few days. Before long, your parrot will calm down and start to accept you again. You may use a perch or stick, or even a toy, if you do not want to get yourself injured. As you approach the bird with your hand, caress its belly with gentle strokes. Once the bird has gained your trust, it will hop onto your fingers. Use words like 'up' to get your bird perched on your hands.

Once your bird has gained your trust, you are in a great position to start training your bird to talk. Start with simple words like 'hello' or the bird's own name like 'polly'. Slowly use easy to pronounce words and repeat frequently. You can also use training tapes to teach your bird to talk. Cover the cage and play the tape on your recorder or CD player. You can even teach the bird to sing if you repeatedly play a music tape or CD. The best time to do this is early in the morning.

The best period to teach a parrot to talk is between 4 to 6 months of age. Older parrots may take a slightly longer time to master the words. But one thing is for sure, you'll have loads of fun and satisfaction doing it.

Azmi Adnan is a writer and a bird enthusiast. Subscribe to his newsletter for fresh video clips on parrots and other bird species, ezines and interesting bird stories at his website http://www.power-to-live.com/parrot.html

Parrots - Travel Carriers Solve Your Vacation Worries by Making it Easy to Bring Your Pet Bird Along

2008-06-09T07:38:00.001-07:00

This past year, I packed up and moved across country with a flock of five parrots. It was a three thousand mile trip, and a very eye opening experience! I learned the importance of a good travel carrier, and realized how many questions there are about appropriate carriers, so I decided to write a short article detailing the important aspects of a good carrier.

A travel carrier is an essential accessory for a bird owner. Whether it be car trips, road trips, or traveling by plane, your bird will need a comfortable and safe way to travel with you. Travel carriers do not need to be as big as your birds regular cage, but should be large enough for the bird to fit comfortably and move around a bit. Keep in mind the duration your bird will be in the carrier- for a shorter day trip, a smaller carrier is fine. For a longer trip that the bird will spend one or more days in, a larger carrier is recommended.

Types of Carriers

Depending on what type of travel you plan, there are many types of carriers available for your use. Airline approved carriers are a must for flight. Commonly used carriers include cat and dog carriers, modified to hold a perch and food dishes. There are bird specific carriers available, including collapsible wire carriers with grates and locking trays, or heavy duty stainless steel carriers available for those with big beaks. For shorter travels, there are hand held carriers that have a mesh front, suitable for smaller birds going on short trips that aren't apt to chew. Whatever your desire, there is a model available that will suit you and your bird. I personally chose a wire knockdown model, that allowed the carriers to be stored easily when not in use. A great space saver!

Setting up the Travel Carrier

Choose a perch that will provide firm footing for your bird. Stay away from slick woods like manzanita, and go more towards perches such as rope. I recommend perches like grapevine, cholla, or rope that will allow your bird to have a good grip. A perch should be installed towards the front of the carrier, to accommodate the birds tail and in case of a sudden stop, the bird will not be thrown forward, but will be able to lean forward and grab the front of the carrier. When choosing a toy for the carrier, choose one made out of soft material, or preferably a side mount toy so that it does not move when the vehicle is in motion.

Getting Ready to Go

Your bird should be comfortable and used to his carrier before any long trip. Putting his favorite toy and treats in the carrier will help put him at ease. Once he is used to his carrier, it's advisable to take the bird on several short trips, prior to the real trip. This will let you see how the bird reacts to the carrier, and also to the trip. It is not uncommon for some parrots to experience car sickness, like my greencheek conure. If your bird does exhibit car sickness, there are several things you can do to help ease the effects including: covering the carrier, trying the carrier in both the back and front (safely buckled in) seats of the car, and if all else fails, shredded ginger root prior to the trip will help ease any stomach upset

Be sure to always secure your birds carrier with a seatbelt or other device Like little children, a bird in a front seat could be vulnerable to injury if there was an accident and air bags were deployed.

Also be sure to bring adequate food and water for your feathered companion. It is recommended that juicy fruit, or an ice cube, takes the place of water on a short journey, as the bird will still receive necessary liquids without worry of water spilling. On extended travels, your bird will need out of cage time, so a portable play gym or T-stand is recommended. There are several models available that break down, making it easy for you to carry.

Before vacation day, it is recommended that you make sure your bird has been properly groomed. While articles say that your bird requires a health certificate before any travel, this is largely untrue. If you are driving with your pet, you will not need to provide proof of health inside the US. If you are flying or traveling by other means, it is required that you have a recent (within 30 day) health certificate for all animals. If your bird is fully flighted, a harness for the journey is necessary to ensure your bird will not escape. I personally chose to clip all my birds prior to travel, as I wanted to be able to grab them quickly without worrying about putting on a harness in an emergency.

Always keep safety in mind while traveling. Keep your bird in the carrier while the vehicle is in motion. Climate and altitude changes can affect your pet, so be sure to have weather conditions checked ahead of time. It's best to avoid crowds, and never let your bird out of your site. It is also advised to reserve your hotel ahead of time, so that you can be sure the place you rest is pet friendly. I found that Drury Suites Hotels were very accommodating and pet friendly.

It is also recommended that you bring along emergency contact numbers of both pet sitters and your avian vet. Carry your avian first aid kit, in case of an accident. Documents such as proof of ownership, breeders name/address, medical records, and a recent photo of your bird is recommended. Some owners have taken a further step and also micro chipped their avian companions. If you have done this, be sure to have the chips information in a safe place, and take it on your travels. The chance that you will need all this documentation and information is slim, however, the information would prove invaluable in case of an emergency.

If you read this article and found it helpful, consider stopping by my website http://www.BirdToys.com

You can also find me and over 17,500+ other parrot owners at http://www.BirdBoard.com where you can ask questions and get immediate feedback.

Just Hangin' Around Puerto Vallarta

2008-06-09T07:38:00.000-07:00

With the hustle and bustle of today's life, many of us never have the time or take the time to stop and smell the flowers, let alone closely observe the wildlife around us. However, for those of us retired geezers fortunate enough to be living in Paradise, where the tropical flora and fauna abound, the beautiful flowers and birds are literally everywhere; so conspicuous that you'd have to be blind to miss them!

During the eleven years that we've lived on the Sierra Madre hillside overlooking Banderas Bay and the city of Puerto Vallarta, there have been a number of generations of tropical birds that have chosen trees on our property to build their nests. Some of the nests are built in the forks of the trees, others are located in the fans of palms, and still others are precariously hanging from the very end of branches. A couple such hanging nests are currently "front and center" in our picturesque view.

Invariably, when friends visit our house, they will inquire about those large nests hanging from the tree. Our response has always been that they are just some kind of local birds that like to build their nests in our trees; not a very precise answer! Being retired and on Mexican time, we did not exactly rush into determining the correct answer to their question; however, after eleven years, we decided to research the subject and learn what kind of bird builds the hanging nests.

When we first asked the local natives of the area, we were informed with authority, that Calandrias build the hanging nests. Having never heard of such a bird, we then went to our translating dictionary and found that Calandria is Spanish for Oriole. Okay, now that we have a suspicion that the hanging nests were built by orioles and not claiming to be professional bird watchers (the only orioles that we're familiar with are from Baltimore), we decided to look a little further. We brought out the digital camera and started watching and waiting for the perfect moment to capture the builders in action.

To our astonishment, there are over 400 species of tropical birds in the area and we had no idea how to even begin our classification process. We see the flocks of green parrots and a myriad of colorful song birds every day in the Banderas Bay region, however all that we knew for sure was that the builders in question were yellow and black; therefore birds of that color combination became our focus of attention. To our dismay, there are a half dozen or more different species of yellow and black birds in this area of Mexico. After researching the yellow and black birds that build hanging nests, it was determined that the nests could be the handy work of either orioles or caciques; both residing in the Vallarta hillsides and both species of the Icteridae family of birds, sometimes referred to as Troupials.

Most of the yellow and black orioles found around Vallarta are Hooded, Scott, Black Vented or Wagler, and Bullock Orioles, all of which build their pendulous nests at the end of branches. The Yellow Winged Caciques, quite similar in appearance to the orioles with very similar hanging nests, are also often seen around Vallarta and are easily confused with orioles by amateur bird watchers such as us.

Now, armed with just enough information to be dangerous and our digital camera in hand, we set out to photograph these beautiful nest builders. After just missing a hundred great "photo ops", we finally got a close up picture of one of these beautiful birds on our terrace. We studied the photo closely and compared the yellow and black bird in the photo to the various orioles and caciques under consideration and finally determined that it was of neither species and not even of the Icteridae family of birds!

Although Yellow Breasted Chats of the Parulidae family are numerous in the area, this was definitely not one. This was a Great Kiskadee, a strikingly beautiful bird that appeared to be borrowing the hanging nests on a temporary basis; perhaps even stealing straw from the hanging nests to build their own side entry nest in a large fork of the tree! The Great Kiskadees are of the Tyrannidae family, have bright yellow breasts, dark olive-brown backs, and very distinguished and unmistakable black and white heads. They are quite aggressive and were seen defending their territory in the tree from much larger birds. Our initial thought was that these Kiskadees were defending the hanging nests, but after discovering that they don't build hanging nests, it was concluded that they were defending the nest in the fork of the tree that was probably built partially from twigs and straw stolen from the abandoned pendulous nests.

Now we're back to square one; who built those abandoned hanging nests? Since we weren't paying attention when they were being built and there are so many magnificent yellow and black birds in the area, we'll probably never know for sure who built them! Although we see many of the beautiful Yellow Winged Caciques in the neighborhood and they do build the hanging pendulous nests, we should probably just accept the local knowledge and assume these particular nests were built by some kind of oriole or calandria. The seasoned bird watching veterans would probably tell us that those nests hanging around Vallarta were built by Troupials of the Icteridae family; thereby sounding intellectually brilliant while covering all their bases by including all orioles and caciques!

If nothing else, the research associated with this exercise sure did make us much more aware of the beauty around us. There are literally hundreds of different species of tropical birds in the Vallarta area that we can enjoy year round and therefore it's no wonder that this region in Paradise is a virtual playground for the professional bird watchers. On the other hand, with the perfect climate, incredible scenery, and fun to be had, perhaps bird watching is just a good excuse for scheduling their next field trip to Vallarta!

Jim Scherrer is a retired entrepreneur from Houston, has owned property in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico for 24 years, and has made Vallarta his permanent residence for the past ten years. He founded Puerto Vallarta Real Estate Buyers' Agents (PVREBA), whose mission is to reveal all the recent changes that have occurred in Vallarta while dispelling the misconceptions about living in Mexico. PVREBA acts exclusively as buyers' agents by introducing North Americans to Vallarta, showing them properties that meet their needs and budgets, and assisting them through the foreign buying process, with all payments made by the listing agents. For the full series of 40 articles regarding Retirement in Puerto Vallarta as well as pertinent Puerto Vallarta links, please visit us at http://www.pvreba.com/ and click on ARTICLES.

Parrots - Why Every Parrot Owner Needs Be a Member of an Online Message Board

2008-06-09T07:37:00.002-07:00

Are you a parrot enthusiast? Do you currently own parrots or plan on getting some in the near future? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you need to get involved online! There are a couple websites full of useful information for parrot owners. Bird Board is one of many that features that are beneficial and useful to both current parrot owners and individuals who are planning on purchasing or adopting a parrot in the future.

Membership to these message boards are completely free, so there is no risk for you to join. With just a short registration process, you will quickly be on your way to interacting with thousands of other parrot owners from around the world. As a matter of fact, Some are available to users in a variety of languages! At a Bird Board you will also have access to a fountain of information that can be helpful in the everyday care of your beloved parrot.

Bird board includes areas for general discussion on birds, do it yourself projects for birds and instructions for making your own homemade bird toys and bird treats. There is information in the forums on the health, nutrition and safety of your birds as well as training techniques that other parrot owners have been successful with. If you are looking to purchase or adopt a parrot, there is a classified section available, as well as information on various bird clubs and bird shows from around the world. Any bit of information you could possibly be looking for, can be found in the many forums on various message boards.

Most have a comprehensive Frequently Asked Questions section, that lists the most frequently asked issues parrot owners come across. There are news articles available for the latest news on parrots and parrot issues, as well as general articles that cover everything from the care of your bird to how to build your own bird toys. With your free membership to a BirdBoard, you will have access to member maps so that you can find other members that are in your area as well as, photo and video albums that show other members with their pet parrots. You can also find species specific boards, with discussions and information on the specific breed parrot that you own.

Navigating the these website is easy, so you will have no problem finding the information you are looking for. In fact, there is so much useful and interesting information on a bird board, I'd wager that before you know it, hours will have passed with you browsing the site and you'll wonder where the time has gone! If you love your parrot and want to learn all you can about your feathered friend, becoming a member of a bird board is absolutely essential. Even if you have owned parrots for years, it is still in your best interest to join. Not only may you learn something new, but you will be able to interact with other parrot lovers from all around the world. After all, no one can understand a parrot lover like another parrot lover can!

If you read this article and found it helpful, consider stopping by my website http://www.BirdToys.com

You can also find me and over 17,500+ other parrot owners at http://www.BirdBoard.com where you can ask questions and get immediate feedback.

Rub a Dub-Dub, a Parrot in the Tub

2008-06-09T07:37:00.001-07:00

Ask any bird owner and he will tell you, "Yep, birds are messy."

So just how do you keep your new pet parrot clean? And what about his cage, toys, food...are there any special instruction here?

The Bird - To keep feather dust to a minimum, and promote vibrant colors, shower your parrot weekly. Most species love water and will sing, flap their wings and even "dance" when showered. You can purchase a shower perch for let your parrot walk around on the bottom of the shower floor or tub.

You don't have to buy special soap for your bird. Use plain tap water. Be sure the temperature is warm. It's a good idea to test the water's temp by letting the water run on the underside of your forearm, much like you would for a baby's formula.

Some bird owners mist their parrots with water from a spray bottle (similar to the ones used for misting house plants). A few varieties of birds dislike misting, so proceed with caution. If your pet shows signs of apprehension, it's a good idea to avoid the misting process altogether.

The Food Dishes - Wash in hot soapy water, or run through the dishwasher everyday. Consider buying two sets of food and water dishes; while one set is placed in your birds' cage (with fresh contents) the other set is in the dishwasher.

The Cage - A rule of thumb here is; the larger the bird, plus, the more time the bird spends in the gage equals the more frequently you should perform a thorough cleaning on the cage. i.e. more than a "wipe down". Cage liners are wonderful! It's easy to roll up your bird's mess in one thin liner than it is to empty the pan, or pull up newspaper. Change liners daily, or every few days, depending on how messy your bird is. A quick wipe over with a warm wet cloth helps alleviate the difficulty of the thorough cleaning.

Before you thorough clean, remove the bird from his cage and place on a perch away from his cage area. Use a bird safe disinfectant. Sometimes a scrub brush and/or sandpaper can help remove tough dried particles.

The Toys - Soak toys in mild soapy warm - hot water. rinse thoroughly and allow to dry before returning to cage. Cleanse toys every few weeks to remove germs and feather dust.

The Yard aka area around the cage - This area is often plagued with feathers, feather particles and feather dust as well as seeds and other food items your bird drops. Vacuum daily. A cage with a seed catcher helps somewhat and is worth purchasing.

Also, consider purchasing an air purifier one with a HEPA filter.

Whenever possible, use cleaning time as play time, too. Talk and socialize with your pet while you change his bird liners, or shower him. the more contact you have with your parrot, the better caregiver you'll be. You'll also be able to recognize signs of stress and illness quicker.

Keeping your bird clean, healthy and happy requires daily maintenance, but is well worth it.

Robin Bateman is an author and Moderator on http://www.Writing.Com which is a site for Writers. She is also a contributing editor for Racquet Sports Industry Magazine, resource for those in the tennis industry employees.

Bateman began her parrot-owning journey in 1999 and now owns six parrots.

This article has been submitted in affiliation with http://www.PetLovers.Com which is a site for Pets.

Bird Toys - Bird Toy Safety Every Parrot Owner Should Know

2008-06-09T07:37:00.000-07:00

Birds are kind of like children. They love their toys and they love to play. But just as a responsible parent would practice good safety measures with their children and their toys, a bird owner also needs to practice good safety measures with their pet as well.

The first step to proper bird safety comes with buying the actual bird toy itself. Though it shouldn't be this way, many bird toy manufacturers make toys that are actually quite unsafe for birds. Ideally, these toys would never be allowed on the market, but unfortunately that isn't the way it is. So when you go to purchase new bird toys, you need to make sure that they are safe toys that will not be harmful to your bird.

Bird toys should be made with safe materials. While there are some bird toys made from plastics that are quite safe, you should still thoroughly examine these toys before you purchase them. Plastic ingestion can be very harmful to birds. Before you buy the toy, make sure it does not have cracks in it that will easily split. Avoid buying the toy if the plastic looks brittle or damaged. These toys may easily break, and the bird could end up swallowing the plastic and getting sick.

If you are buying toys that are made with wood, make sure the wood is a type that is safe for birds to chew on. Some woods are toxic to birds and can make them ill or even be lethal. Before you purchase a wood toy, make sure you know what type of wood that it is made from so you can ensure it has been manufactured from a wood that is safe for birds.

You should avoid buying toys with small chains to them, as bird claws and nails can get tangled in these chains and cause injury. Instead, look for toys that are hung with rope. When looking for toys with rope, make sure the the rope is a cotton rope with a tight weave to it. Do not buy toys that have loose weaves, or look like they may come apart easily, because this can also cause the bird to become entwined in the toy.

Proper bird toy safety continues after the purchase of the parrot toys too. The second step to proper bird toy safety is to be mindful of the toys after you have given them to the bird. When the toys start to become worn and are breaking apart very easily, take them out of the cage and throw them away. If there are rope toys in the cage, snip loose ends of the rope as you see them or throw the toy away all together if it is getting very loose.

Following these few simple bird toy safety tips will not only keep your bird healthy, but will also show it how much you care for it. When you are mindful of your birds toy safety, you can rest assured they will live a long and healthy life with you.

If you read this article and found it helpful, consider stopping by my website
http://www.BirdToys.com

You can also find me and over 17,500+ other parrot owners at http://www.BirdBoard.com where you can ask questions and get immediate feedback.

Bird Toys - Selecting the Right Type and Size Bird Toy For Your Bird

2008-06-09T07:36:00.000-07:00

If you have a pet bird or plan on getting one in the future, you will need to get bird toys as well. Bird toys are essential to the health and well being of your bird. Bird toys provide mental stimulation to your bird to prevent boredom, and help to provide habits that your bird would naturally act upon in the wild. It can be a daunting task however, to try and choose bird toys for your bird, because there are so many to choose from.

When you go to find toys for your bird, you need to find a toy that is the correct size for your bird. If you choose a bird toy that is too small for your bird, it can pose a choking hazard. If you choose one that is too large, your bird may not play with it and large pieces can actually scare them.

Most pet stores that sell bird toys will have the toys separated into sections based on the size of your bird. If you own a large bird, such as a Macaw or African Grey, you will need to choose bird toys with large pieces. The toy should have large blocks of wood and large beads or other pieces on it that your bird can chew on without risk of swallowing a piece. Since birds are notorious for climbing and hanging on their toys, toys for large birds should have thick, sturdy ropes and strong clasps to attach them to the cage with. This way, if the bird does choose to try and hang from it, the toy is strong and sturdy and will not risk breaking causing possible harm to your bird.

If you have small birds, such as cockatiels, parakeets, budgies or conures, you will probably have a much larger selection of toys to choose from since these are much more common birds as pets. Toys for these birds should be made of pieces that are relative to their size. They should not be to large, because they can scare the birds or even injure the birds if they are too big. While some large parrot toys may be alright for your smaller birds, you should generally avoid them, and stick with toys that are specifically made for small birds. Many people unknowingly believe that their small birds will love having a bigger toy and that it will last longer, however they really are not the best choice for little birds.

The good news for you is that bird toys come in a large number of shapes and sizes. Many online pet stores offer an extremely large selection of bird toys for your bird. Keep in mind however, that birds do have a personality of their own and while you may think a toy is nice your bird may not. Buying a variety of bird toys will give your bird a large selection of toys to choose from and also give a selection to use to rotate toys to prevent your bird from getting bored.

If you read this article and found it helpful, consider stopping by my website
http://www.BirdToys.com

You can also find me and over 17,500+ other parrot owners at http://www.BirdBoard.com where you can ask questions and get immediate feedback.

Bird Toys - The Varieties of Bird Toys and What They Offer Your Parrot

2008-06-09T07:34:00.000-07:00

If you have a pet bird or are considering getting one, bird toys are an absolute necessity. A bird requires toys for entertainment and stimulation. Even if you often interact with your bird, you will need bird toys in the cage for your bird.

There are many different types of bird toys available for you to buy. There are toys that are meant for mental stimulation for your bird, toys that are designed specifically for destruction and toys that allow your birds to preen the toy, rather than over preening themselves. You should have all types of bird toys available for your bird and should rotate them frequently in the cage.

Bird toys are made from many different materials for your bird to enjoy. Toys that are made from paper and natural materials like woods and natural fibers are good choices for your bird, because it gives them something to chew on. Birds enjoy chewing and breaking things apart. It is not only entertaining to them, but it also helps promote healthy beak structure. Other safe materials for them to chew on and destroy are rawhide and leather, or toys made from food substances.

There are many toys that are also made from non-natural materials. Plastic, fiberglass and metals are common choices of materials in bird toys. They are used often in toys that are for mental stimulation. These toys give the birds the mental stimulation they need to prevent boredom from occurring, which can cause severe issues like feather plucking. Birds must have adequate amounts of mental stimulation and these toys should be rotated frequently to prevent the birds from getting bored with them.

Preening toys offer the birds clean, hygienic feathers or materials for the birds to preen. When birds become to bored, they can start preening themselves too often which can lead to feather conditions. When you offer them toys that will allow them to spend time preening, you can help to prevent these conditions from occurring.

When you choose bird toys, you need to choose ones that are the proper size for your birds. Toys that are small, such as toys for parakeets, cockateils and other small parrots, should not be given to large birds like Macaws or African Greys. Giving a large bird toys that are too small can pose choking hazards. Make sure that when you buy your bird toys, you ensure they are the correct size for the bird that you own.

There are so many bird toys for you to choose from, you will certainly have a hard time deciding which ones to buy! You'll be amazed how many types of birds toys there are for different species of birds. When you shop for bird toys, you should choose toys in a variety of materials for your bird to enjoy. You should also make sure you buy different toys for simulation, destruction and preening so that your bird will never become bored and will stay a happy bird.

If you read this article and found it helpful, consider stopping by my website
http://www.BirdToys.com

You can also find me and over 17,500+ other parrot owners at http://www.BirdBoard.com where you can ask questions and get immediate feedback.

Parrot Videos - The Online Video Site For Parrot Owners!

2008-06-09T07:33:00.000-07:00

The Online Video Site For Pet Bird Owners!

AvianVideos.com is a unique new way for parrot lovers to show the antics and exploits of their beloved feathered friends. AvianVideos.com is a site dedicated specifically to bird videos from bird owners around the globe. AvianVideos is free to use and any one can join. With a registered membership, you can upload your own videos for others to enjoy and watch videos from other members. However, you need not have a membership to simply view videos, which are available for everyone to enjoy.

Anyone that owns a bird knows just how entertaining they can be. How many times have you spent hours laughing at the funny antics or cute tricks your bird can perform? Well, now you can spend hours watching other birds perform their zany little actions too! AvianVideos.com has a large section of parrot videos for you to choose from and enjoy. There are so many videos for you to watch, that before you know it, you'll wonder where all the time has gone because you've been sitting for hours and watching all the wonderful videos the site has to offer.

AvianVideos.com is set up so that you can watch videos on specific bird species, like Love birds, Cockatiels and Macaws, Amazons, Quakers, Parakeets and even Toucans, among many others. There are general videos with birds performing various actions. AvianVideos.com has a large selection of bird training videos for you to choose from, if you have been searching for informative information on how to train your pet bird. There are how-to videos that will show you everything from how to properly feed your bird to how to build bird jungle gyms and toys. There are even videos from bird events, such as bird shows and bird seminars.

The People section on Avian Videos allows you to view other members profiles and search out videos that have been uploaded by a particular individual. Profiles give you basic information about members such as their age, location, hobbies and links to any website that they may have. You are able to comment on other members videos to share your thoughts and feelings about the video they have posted, which is a feature that many members enjoy.

Being a member of AvianVideos.com is free and easy. The website is simple to navigate and the process of posting your own video is so simple that even those not very skilled at computer technology can figure it out. If you love birds, being a member of Avian Videos is an absolute must. Not only does it give you the opportunity to view hundreds of videos of other birds from around the world that you will be sure to enjoy, but it also gives you the opportunity to post your own. If you love showing off your bird and want to share videos of your bird with other parrot and bird lovers, AvianVideos.com is definitely the perfect place for you. Join AvianVideos.com today so you can start enjoying the amusing antics of parrots from around the world.

If you read this article and found it helpful, consider stopping by my website http://www.BirdToys.com

You can also find me and over 17,500+ other parrot owners at http://www.BirdBoard.com where you can ask questions and get immediate feedback.

Parrots - Top Ten Web Sites For Parrot Owners

2008-06-09T07:32:00.000-07:00

If you own a parrot or are planning on getting one in the future, there are many online websites that you can visit to find information all parrot related topics. While there are of course countless websites dedicated to birds and parrots, here are the top ten bird websites that all parrot owners should know about.

1. BirdBoard.com - This website is truly one of the best parrot websites out there. Membership is free and gains you access to an extensive member forum that covers anything you could want to know about parrots. There are links to useful news articles, how-to articles and information on specific bird species, photos and videos. You can shop for bird supplies and even find bird breeders. This site has it all if you are looking for bird information. If you own a parrot, a membership to Bird Board should be top priority.

2. BirdBreeders.com - This website offers a listing of bird breeders from the United States. Breeder locations can be broken down by state, and even region. There are forums available on the sight for discussion of birds and breeders. If you are looking to buy a bird, or are a bird breeder, BirdBreeders.com is a good site for you.

3. BirdChannel.com - Your one stop shop for everything bird related. There is information on bird species, bird training and bird health. You can shop for bird supplies and even find bird breeders. This site has it all if you are looking for bird information.

4. AfricanGreyForum.com - If your choice of parrot is an African Grey, you must check out this website. This online community is dedicated to the African Grey parrot and it's owners. There are various rooms in the forum that range from bird care to general Grey discussion. Membership is free and the site is easy to navigate and use.

5. BirdToys.com- An excellent place to shop for bird toys. There is a large selection of parrot toys to choose from including toys that aid in your birds health and mental well being. They have organized toys by species, size, companies and types of toys.

6. MacawForum.com - On the other hand, if the Macaw is your favorite bird, there is MacawForum.com. Similar to the AfricanGreyForum.com site, this website is dedicated to the various species of Macaw. There is information on all things Macaw related and you will find a great community of other Macaw owners.

7. MyToos.com-This website is a fount of information on the Cockatoo parrot species. The owners of this site are obviously dedicated to spreading the word on proper care and requirements for the magnificent Cockatoo. There is a Cockatoo article library chock full of information, as well as a message board for you to interact with other Cockatoo owners.

8. GreyFeatherToys.com-This website offers a large selection of bird toys and bird accessories. If you are looking for a large selection of unique, quality bird toys for your pet parrot, Grey Feather Toys is the place for you.

9. BirdShows.com - This is another all inclusive bird website. There are listings and information for any bird species and bird need that you could imagine available all in one place.

10. AvianVideos.com - If you love watching bird and parrot videos, or have some of your own you would like to share, visit AvianVideos. Membership is free and there are hundreds of bird videos for you to enjoy.

Kelli has owned parrots since she was 8 years old and is active member of the avian community, whether it be bird clubs and conservation programs specifically Parrots International and or the internet.

Tchaikovsky Would Have Loved My Mockingbird!

2008-06-08T07:32:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I listened to the happiest mockingbird in creation. Perched on a limb in a spring time maple tree, he cast a spell on his audience below. We listened to song after song until he wearied of all the applause and left the stage. In a few moments he came back for a curtain call and once again was greeted with applause.

Enchanted by the musical ability of this particular bird, I and a friend sat beneath the tree for a half hour and absorbed every note he sang. He had to have realized that he had an enthralled audience for he performed as if it were a command performance for the queen!

This bird was loud! Everyone in the neighborhood must have heard it and marveled at the different sounds that he was singing. I commented to my friend that the bird had voiced at least 50 different sounds, including one wolf whistle. I learned later that a Mockingbird can master up to 180 different calls and up to 200 song types in only a few months.

Yesterday was one of those beautiful sunny early spring mornings that we have down here in the south during the month of March. Yellow Forsythia and white Bradford Pear blossoms decorated the back yard as if placed there by a master landscape engineer. On reflection I suspect that they were. Yellow, white and pastel daffodils stretched toward the sun as we listened to a concert by an artist that knew he had captivated his audience.

I assume that it was a male bird that was welcoming spring with such passion. Female Mockingbirds do sing, but not as loudly or with as much enthusiasm as the male bird. Males sing all through the day and sometimes during the night in the spring and fall, especially if they're unmated males.

Mockingbirds are everywhere in North America and they're famous for being able to imitate other birds and even some animals. Sounds of frogs, cell phone ringing tones and even the imitation of a barking dog has been part of their repertoire. My bird has even learned the sound of my car horn; at least I think that's the sound I heard.

The Mockingbird in my back yard was putting on the performance of a lifetime just for me I thought, but I've learned differently. The endless songs during the spring are simply a vocal marking of his mating territory as he flies from tree to tree and serenades any female within hearing distance.

If the night is warm and there's a full moon, you'll probably hear an unmated male bird sharing his enthusiasm with the world. The female sings too, though the male is much louder. The one I saw in the tree was obviously a male. He was loud, he was boastful and he had a beautiful voice!

When the Mockingbird finally finds a mate, they build a nest of grass, feathers, rags and just about anything soft. Their nest is never far from the ground and the 4 to 6 eggs the female lays are bluish green with spattered spots of brown. Bushes and small ornamental trees are favorite places to begin a family.

Mockingbirds do not like anyone to get too close to their home, especially if the nest is filled with eggs or newly hatched birds. A couple of years ago my cat Spike was listening to the chirping of baby birds coming from a holly tree, when he was dive bombed by an angry momma Mockingbird. I'm guessing it was the mother because it's hard to tell the difference between the male and the female; they both look alike.

Spike lost all interest in the nest in the tree after being pecked hard on the top of his head by the protecting Mockingbird. He stills walks carefully around that part of the yard, even though that nest has been gone for a year.

Anyone who is familiar with Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture can hear the cheering crowds, bells ringing and the town's people singing and rejoicing after the Russian Army turned back the French invasion of Russia at the Battle of Borodino. My Mockingbird would have fitted right in and no doubt would have made that piece of music even more recognizable than it is today!

Bob Alexander is well experienced in outdoor cooking, fishing and leisure living. Bob is also the author and owner of this article. Visit his sites at:
http://www.bluemarlinbob.com
http://www.redfishbob.com

Owning An African Grey Parrot

2008-06-08T07:31:00.000-07:00

Owning an African Grey Parrot is just like owning any other pet; they need regular cleaning, feeding and lots of attention. They can be very affectionate and form a strong bond with you. They have a fantastic character and it is said that King Henry Vlll used to keep African Grey parrots as pets.

I have owned my African Grey (Henry) for 22 years; they can live for up to 80 years believe it or not. Henry speaks in my voice, he can count, sing, (very loudly), whistle and when the phone rings he mimics how I would answer the phone. The latest thing he does is the sound of a cuckoo, which baffled us for a while until we realized he was mimicking the new front door bell!! He is really cheeky especially at our meal times he bangs on his door until he has something to eat too.

African Greys do need quite a lot of stimulation and like to be entertained, we moved Henry's cage from the living room to the kitchen but he did not like it at all as I think there was not enough going on in there, so he has been moved back. You can get some really good puzzles & toys to keep their minds busy. These toys work best if rotated to keep these highly intelligent birds happy. Although saying that when we put anything new in Henry's cage he will not touch it for about a week until he gets used to it.

The cage you are going to keep your bird in is quite important as it needs to be very sturdy and be big enough for your parrots needs. I brought a lovely about six months ago: this was a real high-quality parrot cage made from finest steel and is finished with a non-toxic, powder coated paint. It has a slide-out tray with grill across for easy cleaning and easy access feeding. It also has a large front and top access door for easy access. It took Henry a few days to get used to it, but he loves it now.

I feed Henry on dry natural seed and nut mix; he especially loves monkey nuts, he cracks the shell open seems to enjoy them very much. I also give him fresh fruit & vegetables to ensure he gets all of the vitamins he needs. I do let him out and he sits on top of the cage watching what everyone is doing and occasionally asking for a biscuit!!, But I always make sure the door and windows are shut as this is how I lost a previous bird.

I have now insured my bird which is great. So if one of my animals needs vet treatment now at least I know I won't have to re-mortgage the house!!! visit http://www.pet-insurance4you.co.uk for great deals on exotic pet insurance.

Owning an African Grey Parrot is very rewarding and can be a friend for life.

Lorraine, along with having too many pets, has just rescued a bearded dragon!! I have a pet insurance website that has great offers from our leading suppliers and lots of information on insuring your pet for less. Learn more by visiting my site at http://www.pet-insurance4you.co.uk

Tips To Owning A Quiet Bird

2008-06-08T07:30:00.000-07:00

When most people hear "parrot", they cringe and think of days down the road when they'll be needing hearing aids. That cute parrot can quickly turn into your worst nightmare. And while parrots can be loud screamers, most owners do not realize that they are usually the reason for the screaming. No bird will ever be truly quiet; however with a little work from you your bird could become a soft talking feathered friend. Here are a few tips to help you achieve that quiet dream bird.

Spend Time with Your Bird

Birds will scream if they're lonely. They call for their flock mates. If you and your family are in the living room watching TV and your bird is in the room down the hall, more than likely you have a very loud screamer. Try moving your bird's cage to a place where the entire family can get together.

Buy a Bigger Cage

If you and your family are out of the house for most of the day, more than likely your bird is stuck in its cage. Try getting a larger quality cage that will last, it may cost a bit more but it's worth it in the long run. More space allows for more exercise and more toys to help cure some boredom.

Build a Play Area

A play area is a wonderful way to cure screaming. This can consist of a simple stand with food/water cups to a large tree with toys. Your bird will enjoy getting to spend time out of its cage.

Don't Yell At Your Bird

When a bird is screaming to get its owners attention, most of the time the reaction is to yell "SHUT UP!" or "BE QUIET!" at the bird. To your bird this sounds a lot like you're joining in on the scream fest! This can create even louder screaming! Try whispering instead, if a bird is screaming and you whisper then it has to lower its voice to hear you talk.

Don't Reward Your Bird for Being Loud

Another common mistake owners are guilty of is stuffing a nut or piece of fruit in your bird's mouth when it's screaming. A treat stops the screaming, but guess what? You just rewarded your bird for screaming. Your bird will soon learn to scream every time it wants something. Like a spoiled child they want it and they want it NOW!

Try Taking Your Bird with You

Providing your bird has its wings clipped or will wear a bird harness, try taking your bird with on family outings. If you're going to the park take your bird with you! An acrylic bird carrier is an affordable investment and you will enjoy a quieter and happier bird.

And the most important tip -

Don't own a bird if you're never home, it's not fair to the bird. Parrots can have the mental capacity of a 3 or 4 year old and do get bored, frustrated and angry sitting in a cage all day. This is the main cause of screaming and biting.

Angela has been working with birds for over 15 years. Along the way she has learned much about the feathered kind and strives to help those with troubled parrots.

More tips and supplies can be found at her website - http://www.birdsandart.com

Safety For Your Pet Parrot

2008-06-08T07:29:00.001-07:00

Your parrot relies on you, the owner, in providing a safe environment. As a responsible parrot owner, it is your duty to see that this is provided. Medicine and chemicals are to be stored safely in cabinets and out of reach of your free flying parrot. Keep watch on your parrot whenever you let it out of its cage. Parrots are instinctive and curious birds and will cause harm to themselves in the house if they are not watched.

Window curtains and coverings are to be properly secured. Make sure that all cords are out of reach and not knotted or looped as your curious bird could get itself entangled. Parrots are known for their fondness of knots so you need to make sure it is safe.

Replace all damaged parts of a toy as this is harmful if chewed and swallowed. Examine the toys each day and ensure that they do not cause any danger. Ensure that perches are in good condition and affixed correctly. Visit the veterinarian immediately if you suspect that a piece of a toy has been swallowed and your bird behaves abnormally.

Even if you use a carrier while traveling in a car with your bird, ensure that a seat belt is used. This is to prevent the carrier from rolling forward and cause shock to your bird should you brake suddenly. It is also a good idea to prop up the cage so that your bird is able to see out of the window while you are driving. If for some reason the bird is frightful of traveling in a car, use a blanket to cover the carrier.

Keep a list of important phone numbers in case of an emergency. This would include the veterinarian emergency number, bird specialists and fellow bird enthusiasts should you need to consult them for some apparent reason.

Educate your family members on bird care and what is dangerous to birds such as soap powder, liquid detergent, rat poison, glue, ceiling fans, etc. Ensure that these are not exposed whenever the bird is out of its cage.

Develop a disaster action plan. Keep stock of bird food and other supplies in the house in case you are not able to go to the pet store due to bad weather like a snow storm, windy season or floods. Find alternative pet stores to widen your supply base. Learn to perform minor medical treatment in case your bird injures itself during bad weather and you are not able to rush to the vet. Keep stock of bird medication. Talk to your vet and find out what are the likely ailments your bird could suffer and what you could do about it in case a vet is not immediately contactable.

Azmi Adnan is a writer and a bird enthusiast. Subscribe to his newsletter for fresh video clips on parrots and other bird species, ezines and interesting bird stories at his website http://www.power-to-live.com/parrot.html

Bird Watching - How To Get More Birds In Your Backyard

2008-06-08T07:29:00.000-07:00

To understand why birds aren't visiting your backyard, first you need to know which species are in your area. Then add food and water. Lastly, make sure the environment is peaceful.

Step one, knowing which species are in your area. To determine which bird species are in your area you have a variety of choices. Sources such as Farmers Almanacs or the Audobon Society are great resources. Next you can consult birding and bird watching groups in your area. Third you should visit your local library since they may have extensive collections on birds and may also have information on birding and bird watching groups. You can also visit bird feeder and bird food stores. They usually carry pamphlets and brochures on local species. Moreover, the staff and owners of these stores tend to be knowledgeable on the subject.

Step two, after knowing what species are in your area you'll need to buy the right food. You'll also need to create a place where birds can eat. If you decide to go the bird feeder and bird food stores, while you're there, you should consider buying supplies. The supplies are very important. Different species of birds like different types of food. Feeders are typically built for either seeds, nectar, or suet. The seeds that almost all birds prefer are millet seed and sunflower seeds, both seeds are extremely easy to find and cheap as well.

One of the most important steps is to add water. Water is important for all living creatures including birds. Bird supplies stores often carry an array of bird baths. No matter the size or the material, bird baths would instantly attract many varieties of birds.

Step three, is to keep your backyard peaceful. Keeping your backyard free of noise and distractions is paramount to attracting birds after all birds are small creatures and tend to fly off at the first sign of trouble. Animals such as cats and dogs, little children, and loud noises tend to scare birds.

To understand why birds aren't visiting your backyard, first you need to know which species are in your area. Then add water and food. Lastly, make sure the environment is peaceful.

The key to understanding why birds aren't visiting your backyard is knowing which species are in your area, adding food and water and making sure the environment is peaceful.

Visit Bird Feeders Guide for the widest assortment of Bird Supplies at the lowest prices!

Choosing The Right Parrot

2008-06-08T07:28:00.001-07:00

Before you buy yourself a parrot, you have to consider several factors. This will save you from heartaches later on. Do consider the size of your home (whether a landed property or an apartment), other pets you currently share your life with, the amount of time you are willing to devote to your bird, the size of your wallet, your family members' tolerance for parrots, and whether there are children in the house.

Birds usually don't mix with other household pets like cats and dogs. I am sure you have watched Tweetie and Sylvester. Its in their natural instincts to stay away from four legged animals with claws. And its in the cats' and dogs' natural instincts to pounce on a yummy bird. Unless of course your four legged friends are well domesticated that they know their gourmet meal is going to come out of a tin can. And unless your cat or dog lives in the barn and doesn't come into your house, then it would be safe to own a parrot.

Room size does matter for a parrot. You will need a large floor space if you intend to raise African Greys, Macaws, Cockatoos and Amazons, with their standing cages. A large room will not stress your parrot and this is important if you want to train it to do tricks later on. Smaller parrot species like Conures, Lorikeets, Cockatiels and Quakers would be ideal if you are living in small spaces and apartments.

How much money are you willing to spend to buy a parrot? The popular talking birds like African Greys, Cockatoos and Amazons retail in the $2000 to $5000 range. The smaller birds like Conures, Lorikeets and Quakers retail in the $500 to $700 range. Hand fed birds will cost you more but you will have the advantage of them already being accustomed to being fed by humans.

Do you have 30 minutes of your time to devote to your pet parrot a day? You need to because that is the minimum amount of time you will require to build a relationship with your parrot. Parrots are sociable birds in the wild and they flock together. In the absence of other parrots in a domestic home, you become the bird's companion. The 30 minutes that you spend has to be quality time. Feeding time is the ideal time and talk to your bird while you are doing it.

Can other members of your family tolerate the presence of your pet parrot in the house and the potential noise that the bird will generate, not to mention the words it will pick up and speak over and over again once it learns how to talk? You need to discuss this with your family because a parrot is a lifelong pet and can live as long as humans.

Do you have children in the house? Consider the safety of children because parrots bite and can injure a child. Set up rules in the house and make sure that children don't come near the parrot cage unsupervised.

When you have considered all factors and made an informed decision, you will find that owning a pet parrot is one of the best decisions you have ever made.

Azmi Adnan is a writer and a bird enthusiast. Subscribe to his newsletter for fresh video clips on parrots and other bird species, ezines and interesting bird stories at his website http://www.power-to-live.com/parrot.html

Does Your Pet Call You By Name?

2008-06-08T07:28:00.000-07:00

Have you ever heard of the African Grey Parrot? African Grey Parrots are becoming one of the all time favorites of bird lovers. These strikingly beautiful birds, who can out talk any four year old child, have charmed their way into many a household across the globe.

The African Grey is truly one of Gods' special creatures. The Grey's have the ability to express themselves in human language and emotion. Whatever language you speak, they can learn and actually communicate with you.

Skeptics argue that parrots can only mimic back what they have heard believing that even the most highly trained parrot doesn't really understand what it is doing or saying. It's possible that may be true for some species of parrots, but if you live with an African Grey you know deep in your heart that this argument is not a true at all. The African Grey, being a highly intelligent, deeply emotional, and hysterically witty bird would challenge even the hard-line skeptic.

Living with an African Grey takes a great commitment. They have a life span much like a human. If you are going to adopt a Grey into your life, you have to commit to it. As with any intelligent and emotional life form, you have to be prepared to except the ups and the downs that go along with it. We have both a male and a female living in our home.

There are times when it is a huge challenge. They can be demanding and insistent. If they don't get what they want, they can be total brats. Their ear-piercing screams and demanding behavior will surly test even the most patient of persons. This is the most negative of their traits. Their positive traits far out weight their negative ones. On their positive side, I can't say enough about them. The Grey knows when you are sad or upset. They will do everything in their power to make you laugh or change your mood. From their class clown antics to all their hugs and kisses, they will completely wash away a bad day.

The African Grey is best known for their talking and reasoning ability. Some are better talkers than others. Some can imitate sounds so real you can't tell the difference between the actual sound and the bird.

My female is the sound maker. She can talk, but not as well as the male. She is a sweet and loving bird. Her sounds are amazing. I can't tell you how many times I have answered a phone that never rang or opened a door when a doorbell never chimed. I have heard my dog bark when she was soundly asleep in her bed. I've heard doors squeak open that were shut, a microwave oven peep that was never turned on, a police siren and a trash truck backup peeper that was never there. These are only a few examples from a long list.

My male is the talker. So far his vocabulary is around one hundred words. He makes up his own sentences from the words he knows. Studies have shown, that Greys can develop a fifteen hundred to three thousand word vocabulary. When the male can't see me but can hear me, he calls out my name and asks, "Carla, You alright?" I answer, "I'm alright," he says, "Ok." Sometimes, when he starts screaming his head off and the female screams back, he tells her, "That's too loud, stop being a brat." He tells me, "Gonna go night night," when he wants to take a nap. He tells me, "I'm hungry," when he wants something to eat, then tells me what he wants to eat. He makes up things I can't understand and laughs hysterically.

My birds have not been officially trained. Everything they do and say is a direct result of living in the same household with my family. They are members of our family, and as with any other family member they need love and understanding. They need quality time inside the family circle, but also some quiet time to themselves. Do not stick them in a room away from the family hub. It will make them feel isolated and lonely. You will be setting the stage for an unhappy bird. Greys are very sensitive and you can easily upset their emotional well being. This can result in behavioral problems in the future.

Greys are full of life and love to play. If you have to be away from home during the day, make sure you supply them with plenty of toys. In the wild they forage for food about eighty percent of their time. Greys get bored easily, so try to keep a verity of toys around so that they can occupy their time alone. Interchange their toys regularly.

In closing, I highly recommend African Grey Parrots as pets. The only thing I would ask of you before going out and bringing one home, is to do some research on their needs. Make sure you have a full understanding of their housing and diet needs. You also need to make sure your house is bird safe. With all of this in mind, if you can provide for their most basic needs, the African Grey Parrot will reward you with a life time of devotion, affection, and love.

For Other Articles Written By Carla, Visit CarlaHinsey.com Save Up To 90% Off Retail On Pet Supplies and 1000s of Brand Name Household Products at http://trader-bobs.com

Top 5 Bird Dangers To Avoid

2008-06-08T07:27:00.000-07:00

If you are a bid owner, you must be aware of the things that can harm your little avian friend, particularly if you enjoy allowing it to roam freely in your home. By being aware of potential bird dangers, you can effectively make certain your pets are kept safe and enjoy living a long, healthy, and happy life with you.

Bird Danger #1: Accidental Poisoning

Sadly, hundreds of pet birds are accidentally poisoned every year. There are many products and chemicals that are potentially fatal to birds, including insecticides, bleach, ammonia, glues, oven cleaners, paint, nail polish remover, metals such as zinc and lead, perfumes, and even plants. Non stick coatings, such as those found on bread machines, waffle irons, and space heaters can also emit a fume that is toxic to birds when inhaled. So, search your home for potential dangers, making certain to consider things that your pet bird might inhale or ingest that could be potentially lethal.

Bird Danger #2: Toys

While it is important to purchase toys for your avian friend, it is equally important to make sure they are properly made. Buying toys for your pet bird is the same as buying toys for a child. Make certain none of the parts can easily break off and be accidentally swallowed. Similarly, when it comes to rope toys, make certain your pet cannot accidentally get tangled up in the rope or that your pet cannot separate the strands and accidentally get caught inside. The same is true when it comes to electrical cords - birds are naturally curious and will want to play with them. So, keep them out of reach and consider covering exposed cords with corrugated plastic tubing.

Bird Danger #3: Water and Food

Obviously, your pet bird won't be able to live if you don't feed it water and food. At the same time, you shouldn't leave large containers of open water available to your pet - this includes your toilet and water that you may have out for other pets. Birds can easily fall into open water and accidentally drown. In addition, make certain you give your pet the right type of food and keep inappropriate foods put away. Chocolate, caffeine, and alcohol are all potentially fatal to birds when consumed. Similarly, avoid feeding your pet bird foods that are high in sugar, salt, or fat.

Bird Danger #4: Household Items

Several ordinary, every day household items can pose a threat to your pet bird. Ceiling fans, for example, can cause serious injury to birds that do not have their wings clipped. Even those that aren't in flight can get stressed out by the movement of a ceiling fan if it is located near to their cages. Pet birds may also fly into windows, mirrors, and doors, so cover them up when your bird takes to flight or keep your pet bird's wings clipped.

Bird Danger #5: Poor Air Quality

Pet birds can be very sensitive to any type of pollution in the air. Cigarette smoke can cause serious respiratory problems and aerosol products should not be used while you are near to your bird. Birds are also more susceptible to carbon monoxide poisoning. So, for the safety of your birds as well as of your family, keep a carbon monoxide detector in your home and avoid running your vehicle inside an attached garage.

CS Swarens is the president of Find a Pet Online. 800 998-7065

For additional information on dogs, cats, birds, horses, and exotic pets visit the internet's pet resource including pet classifieds at http://www.findapetonline.com

Research birds utilizing breed profiles at http://www.findapetonline.com/bird_breeds_a_z.html

Proper Bird Care

2008-06-08T07:26:00.000-07:00

Most of us probably remember Tweety Bird growing up. With his disproportionately large head and equally small wings, he entertained with his many episodes, involving highly dangerous and complex interactions with Slyvester the cat. "I taut I taw a puddy tat!" is most likely a much quoted reference to his dazzling moments.

In light of his charismatic qualities, it may be a worthwhile endeavor to examine his nature from reality's perspective: the fact that he's a bird and what that means bird owners around the world. For bird owners, Tweety has a special place in our hearts. He reminds of out the care it takes to make sure that your bird is healthy and happy for the duration of its life.

For those who are unfamiliar with proper bird care and are thinking about purchasing one, it is important to keep a few things in mind.

· The Cage - When buying a cage, make sure that the cage is large enough to provide adequate exercise for your bird. The largest dimensions should be with respect to length and width, height. How big or how small the cage should be is a function of how much time the bird spends in its cage. The more time it spends in there, the bigger the cage should be and vice versa. The cage should be fitted with perches of varying sizes so that your bird can properly exercise its feet.

· Food - Fresh seed mix should make up no more than 20 % of its food source. Seeds are high in both protein and fat, so anything more than 1/5 the energy intake would be unhealthy for the bird. Vegetables and fruit should make up the other 80%. Don't over feed your animal. This will put unnecessary stress on the birds bone structure.

· Keep your bird away from common household dangers. These include cats and dogs, plants, paint, ceiling fans, vacuum cleaners and open toilet bowls. Birds often unknowing find themselves in compromising situations when confronted with these household objects.

It is important to also take your bird to get regular check ups at the local veterinarian clinic. Trained specialist can often detect serious illness before they arrive, saving you psychological, physical, and financial headaches in the future.

For more information on ways you can properly take care of your bird consult this website: http://www.sanfranciscoveterinarianclinics.com/ or your local veterinarian.

Joseph Devine

Psychic Bingo Bird

2008-06-08T07:25:00.000-07:00

I have a little Peach-face Lovebird named Bingo. ( Of course her name is BINGO...What else would a lady who is addicted to the game of Bingo name her bird?)

Anyway, I had bought a children's Bingo set for my friend's daughter, for her birthday. (A future Bingo Babe in training!)

The set comes with little plastic chips with a Bingo number printed on each one, which the caller would pull out of a little bag. As we were setting up the game to play, we dumped all the pieces out onto the table.

My pet bird Bingo, who was sitting on my shoulder at the time, was fascinated by all the brightly colored chips. She hopped down onto the table and after carefully examining each chip, she began picking them up one at a time and putting them in a pile on the other side of the table. With each trip she would pick up one or two chips and drop them back down on the table before making her final decision on which one she would bring back to her pile.

As I watched her, the thought occurred to me that this little lovebird put careful consideration into each pick. I have spent hours agonizing over which numbers I would use for my "U-Pick-ums" or some Bingo Halls call them "Circle 7's". It is a game where the Player picks seven numbers and circles them on a special sheet. The player wins when all of the seven numbers the player has picked have been called.

Then the idea came to me!

I pulled all the chips back into one pile, and this time each time Bingo picked out a chip, I wrote the number down until she had picked out 7 numbers.

That night at Bingo I won the "U-Pick-Um" Jackpot! So you know who is going to pick out my seven lucky numbers from now on? My little psychic friend Bingo the Peach-faced Lovebird!

Brandie Bushwitz, aka the Bodacious Bingo Babe
Author of Bingo Babe Talk
http://BingoBabeTalk.Blogspot.com

Parakeet Care - How to Keep Your Pet Parakeet Happy And Healthy

2008-06-07T07:24:00.002-07:00

Parakeets are beautiful and intelligent pets, but before buying one, it helps to learn a bit about good parakeet care. This will help ensure that you and your pet bird enjoy a long, happy relationship.

Parakeet Cages

Parakeets, also called budgies, require the proper cage. Make sure it's a cage designed for small birds, with narrow gaps between the cage bars. Get the largest cage you can afford - it should have enough space for your parakeet to open his wings fully. The cage should have a swing, and at least two perches. Attach a cuttlebone to the side of the cage so your parakeet can keep his beak trim.

Make sure the cage has a pull out bottom drawer so you can easily keep the floor clean. Place newspapers or bird paper down on the bottom to absorb the droppings. You can sometimes find parakeet cages with a grated floor above the bottom of the cage - this will keep your parakeet off the dirty bottom.

Position the cage off the floor in a draft--free area. If you're concerned about drafts, cover the sides or parts of the cage with towels to be on the safe side.

Parakeet Feeding

Give your parakeet fresh food and water daily. Buy a good seed mixture designed for parakeets and supplement their diet with vitamin drops and bird gravel (available in most pet stores). Whenever opening their cage, use caution and make sure all the doors and windows are closed - because a parakeet can escape in a flash. Also make sure no household predators are around (dogs, cats, etc.).

Parakeet Handling

Parakeets frighten easily, so try to avoid any noisy or sudden movements towards them. Take your time and be gentle whenever you're around them, this will gradually gain their trust. You should immediately begin the process of getting them used to you and your hand. You can do this by placing your hand in their cage and leaving it there for 5 - 10 minutes, as often as you can. While your hand is in their cage, sing and talk soothingly to your parakeet and this will help establish a bond of trust. After a period of time, you'll be able to place your forefinger under your budgie's chest and he'll hop right on your finger and stay there for longer and longer periods of time.

Parakeet Exercise

To stay healthy, a parakeet needs exercise - and this means flight. You should let your parakeet out of his cage to fly every day. Start out slowly, because a bird that's been caged for a long time will be very weak in the beginning and have problems flying. Take his cage into a small room, such as a bathroom, and open the door to his cage. He'll eventually get out and try to fly. There will be some crashes and frustration, but in a small room such as a bathroom, you won't have to worry about him getting stuck behind a bookcase. After a week or so, he should be in flight--shape and then you can begin letting him out to fly in larger rooms.

Parakeet Health Care

Parakeets are susceptible to a variety of diseases, but the most common and potentially fatal is diarrhea. Keep an eye on her stools - they should be round and solid. If they are consistently runny, then she could have diarrhea. Think about any changes you might have made to your parakeet. Have you given her table food? Many table foods can be harmful to a parakeet and give them diarrhea, even seemingly harmless foods such as iceberg lettuce. Stick to seed and treats designed for parakeets and go to the pet store or call your veterinarian for an anti--diarrhea medicine designed for parakeets.

Good parakeet care doesn't have to be complicated. Just take the time to give him attention and care on a daily basis. And it's a good idea to invest in a good parakeet or budgie care handbook.

Learn more about Taking Care of Parakeets and other informative Pet Care Articles at http://www.petcarejournal.com - a website designed to provide you with information and resources that will help you get the most out of your pet keeping experience, no matter what type of pet you own.

How To Choose Best Birding Binoculars

2008-06-07T07:24:00.001-07:00

A fine pair of binoculars is any bird watchers best friend. For a great birding experience, bird watchers need binoculars that would cater to their viewing needs. Nowadays, technological advancement has allowed many manufacturers to create modern type binoculars with several new features and enhancements. Still, some of these so called enhancements may not necessarily improve every bird watcher's viewing. Therefore bird watchers, novices and experts alike, should take note of a few things so that they may find the perfect pair of binoculars they are looking for.

There are numerous types of binoculars available nowadays. They come in several different sizes, and come with several different features. Some have specific purposes or specifications that are suited for particular activities or environments. It is very rare to find a pair of binoculars that can cater to every single situation, that is why it is imperative that you know exactly what you are buying.

Some of the more popular brands that considered best birding binoculars include the following: Swarovski, Leica, Zeiss, Nikon, Bausch and Lomb. These following brands offer top notch binoculars with a reasonable price of under $500: Pentax, Eagle Optics, Nikon, Celestron, Swift Audobon.

One thing to consider is the power range of your binoculars. The power range is represented by a measure, an example of this measurement would be 8x30. The first number (8) counts the measurement of magnification. The higher the number, the higher the magnification the binoculars have. However, binoculars with a high magnification do not necessarily give a better viewing. Higher magnification requires a larger amount of light, otherwise the users may not be able to see the image. That is why it is important to relate the magnification number with the width of the biggest lens, which is measured by the second number (30). The bigger the measurement means that a larger amount of light is let in.

The comfort value is also very important. Choosing binoculars that can easily be adjusted to your specifications can be extremely helpful. For one thing, always make sure that the image you see through the binoculars is clear, and does not have any unusualness. Also make sure that your fingers may reach the adjustment wheels without having to move your entire hand, this ensure that you can follow the movements of the animals you are watching. The strap should also be checked, it should be adjustable and comfortable.

Binoculars with rubber coats are a popular comfortable choice, especially for those users who wear eyeglasses. It gives an easy grip no matter the weather conditions. Some
birding binoculars are not fit for eyeglass wearers, an example would be binoculars from Swift Audobon, that is why eye relief is a vital factor in many bird watchers.

Eye relief is the measurement of the distance that the eyes can manage to be away from the binocs' eyepiece and still be able to see the whole image. User friendliness is also something to consider. Bird watchers may not enjoy their birding if they are too busy adjusting and maneuvering their binoculars all the time. An easy to use pair of bins is key.

Birding binoculars are a birder's eyes on the world, and they can greatly affect the quality of a bird outing. Good binoculars make for good birding, while bad binoculars can lead to missed birds and severe headaches induced by blurred images, double vision, and eye strain. Learn how to choose the best birding binoculars at a low cost to fit your need and save your pocket from regret, check our best birding binoculars reviews for 5 best birding binoculars under $500.

Training Cockatiels

2008-06-07T07:23:00.002-07:00

Cockatiel owners love their birds. They want them to be healthy and happy. However, sometimes they develop bad habits such as plucking their feathers, biting, and screaming. Not only does feather plucking make the bird unsightly, it is not healthy. While other behaviors are certainly annoying, feather plucking can be quite traumatic for both owner and bird. The good news is, training cockatiels not to pluck their feathers is possible, and it is necessary.

Veterinarians estimate that nearly half of all domesticated birds over-preen or pluck their feathers. Cockatiels are more predisposed to doing this. Some veterinarians believe the reason is because they live in large flocks in the wild. Once separated from this large flock, they become fearful and anxious. This may lead them to over-preen.

Can we know what causes a bird to begin self-mutilating? Scientists believe the reasons are medical, behavioral, or environmental. Here are some possible causes:

Medical - Viral, bacterial, or fungal infections may be the culprit. However, external parasites, an allergic reaction, or nutritional deficiency may also be to blame.

Behavioral - Is your cockatiel nearing breeding season? Hormones may be the culprit; they may be plucking feathers to breed and prepare a nest. Birds may pluck feathers to incubate their young, pay attention and determine if this might be an issue. They may also pluck their feathers out of sexual frustration.
Does your bird have toys that will provide mental stimulation? If not, it may be simply bored and needs something to chew on or keep itself occupied.

Environmental - Perhaps your bird cage is too small, the lighting is all wrong, or your home needs additional humidity. The quality of food they are fed may also be a determining factor.

Whatever the cause, the important thing to do is to stop this activity. If you don't stop it early on, it will progressively worsen. A bald bird is not a pretty bird, or a healthy bird. It will also be more difficult to keep it free of infection or keep it warm.

Take your cockatiel to a veterinarian and have them thoroughly checked out. Rule out medical reasons. They may have developed itchy skin, feathers aren't growing in properly, or their skin is irritated so they need to itch. Change their diet to something that is more balanced, or do whatever else the veterinarian recommends.

If the reason isn't physical or environmental, they may simply pluck their feathers out of boredom. It should be noted that boredom is often the cause of other unwanted behaviors like aggression, biting and screaming. Training is the answer for all undesirable behaviors. Training cockatiels to do tricks may help alleviate their stress or boredom which leads them to pluck their feathers. Teach them some tricks that will occupy their time or give them some new toys to play with. Keep an eye on your cockatiel and see if these additions to their lives illicit a change in their behavior.

Be sure that you're not inadvertently reinforcing their feather plucking. If you notice them over-preening, don't rush over to fuss at them. If they are already starved for your attention, they may continue to pluck feathers just to get you to spend time with them. Like children, they may think that any attention given to them is better than having no attention at all.

Training cockatiels also includes redirecting their feather plucking behavior. Watch your cockatiel. When you see it start to chew on its feathers, do something to draw their attention away from what they're doing. Then when they stop plucking at its feathers, praise them and give it attention.

There are no quick fixes when it comes to stopping this feather plucking behavior. If your bird is just beginning to do this, it will take the same amount of time for it to re-learn as it did for it to begin. However, once your bird has begun to pluck its feathers, it may always have a tendency to do so.

Training cockatiels to stop plucking their feathers, and to eliminate other unwanted behaviors, is not an easy task. It will take time, dedication, and consistency on the part of everyone who is around the bird. Begin now to address the problem, don't let it go. Take your cockatiel to the vet and have them checked out. If there isn't a medical reason for the activity, double your efforts to involve the cockatiel in family life, and you may find that the activity stops.

To discover more parrot training tips and techniques, sign up for Chet Womach's free parrot training newsletter where you'll discover how to fix dozens of Cockatiel behavior problems.

Bird Breeds and their Care

2008-06-07T07:23:00.001-07:00

So you've decided to get a bird as a pet. Here is a guideline to different breeds, how to care and general characteristics to get you familiarized with your new pet.

Finches - the popular breeds are: gray singing, green singing, society finch, and zebra finch. Cages should be a box-type or they can be kept in an aviary. They need perches and some might need baths. The regular size of such cages range 20x10x12 inches. Some finches are good singers, and many have fine markings and beautiful color combinations. Popular breeds are relatively inexpensive.

Canaries - the popular breeds are: roller, gloster, border canary, red-factor canary and other smaller varieties. They need perches and bath in their cages which range in sizes 20x14x16 inches. These birds can range from the inexpensive to the expensive. Good cage birds can be kept in aviary with other see-eating species, even some softbills. They are brightly colored, sweet singers (if male, though some hens sing a little).

Soft-billed birds (non-seed eating) - One such soft-billed bird is the Pekin robin. It can be housed alone or in pairs in an indoor cage - 30x18x26 inches. These birds are strong, lively and strong singers (particularly males). They have beautiful plumage, couples are quite affectionate and they need water daily.

Shama is another soft-billed bird that can be housed alone or in pairs in aviary. It must stay indoors in winter. They tend to mimic everything from rusty gate to nightingale. They can be quite exuberant.

The Golden-fronted leafbird is another soft-billed bird that can be kept in a cage or aviary with other smaller species. Cage sizes tend to range in 32x20x24 inches. The males sing sweetly. They are brightly colored and easily tamed.

Parrots - The Budgerigar (small species of parrots) can stay in cage size 24x12x16 inches with horizontal wire. They may also house in aviary. Spray the cage on warm days with mist sprayer. They come in many colors and can learn words if taught young. They are affectionate, sometimes noisy and relatively inexpensive.

The Lovebird is another breed of parrots that can stay in a cage size 23x12x16 inches with horizontal wire. They are affectionate if hand-reared. They come in many colors and are relatively inexpensive.

The South American parakeets (concure, Aratinga etc.) and Asiatic parakeets can stay in a cage 47x36x36 inches. They are curious and beautifully colored and quite noisy.

Australian parakeets can stay in cages 47x36x36 inches. They can be aggressive and good pets only if hand-reared. They can also be kept in aviary with other parakeet species and finches.

The Lory and Lorikeet need nectar mixture, fruits, and honey. They are beautifully colored and affectionate. Cage sizes can be 47x36x36 inches like the Australian parakeets.

The African gray parrot is a good talker and can mimic quite well. They are capricious and feather pickers. Cage sizes should be 59x59x63 inches.

The Amazon Parrot should have a cage as big as the African gray parrot. They are also good talkers and mimic others well. They need space but can be quite hard to breed.

This article has been submitted in affiliation with http://www.PetLovers.Com/ which is a site for Pets.

Birds and Birdhouses - The Rustic Birdhouses

2008-06-07T07:22:00.001-07:00

Birds that nest in tree cavities will also nest in wood birdhouses. Birdhouses protect birds and coupled with some well-stocked feeders, they will find safety and security in the comforts of your backyard/garden. In return, they will bring your yard/garden to life with flashes of color, wonderful bird songs as well as some occasional comical amusement.

Birdhouses available today do not offer the inexpensive, streamlined and symmetrical design in the sense that many parts are needed and each component requiring a sizeable amount of workmanship hours to finish. Wood is a great material for building a birdhouse because firstly, it has good insulation against the hot sun in mid day and second, it is quite weather proof and hardy. The most beautiful birdhouses are the rustic time, normally called rustic birdhouses or rustic cabin birdhouses.

The rustic birdhouses or rustic cabin birdhouses, can have many shapes and colors, and they're the best choice for bring life to your garden/backyard. Watch the birds build the nest, care for the eggs, care for and feed the young.

Colorful twigs from shrubs and trees dress up birdhouses in rustic style. Choose plants with contrasting bark color and gather small branches just prior to starting the project; freshly cut twigs are pliable and easy to cut. Copper sheeting provides a shiny roof. Stain the birdhouse before gluing on wood pieces or leave it unfinished to weather naturally. Rustic birdhouses are constructed to meet the suggested requirements of the Audubon Society and the U.S.Fish & Wildlife Dept. And many other functional and decorative birdhouses that are mass manufactured. Of course no landscape design is complete without the presence of bird baths or garden fountains.

This wooden rustic birdhouses are an ideal collectible, specially the ones made by the Old Order of Amish craftsmen. The rustic birdhouses are a perfect gift for your bird lover friend, who will be delighted and his feathered friends will have a great place to nest

Some of this birdhouses are Mounted with attached wooden hanger. Mounting paddle allows an easy hanging. The rear cleaning door is perfect for drainage and ventilation.

In conclusion rustic birdhouses protect birds and coupled with some well-stocked feeders, they will find safety and security in the comforts of your garden/backyard, and in return, you'll gain the beauties of having the nature near your door.

Jonix K. is an expert author and a bird enthusiast. Birdwatching is one of the author's hobbies and is a participant of the Rustic Birdhouses website.

Birds Make Great Pets But I Long For Wild Birds

2008-06-07T07:21:00.002-07:00

It seems like forever since I have heard the sweet voice of a bird. Yes, I have heard it on television and on radio but it has been much longer since I heard the real voice, the real singing of a beautiful bird in real life. So, I wonder, why. I wonder why I am missing this awesome event when it is something that my heart longs for.

I am not fussy; I do not need to choose the bird or the time or the place. I am willing to settle for the song or voice of any bird at all, providing I could hear it this week. Now all of you who live in the country are thinking that I am being silly or perhaps you are wondering why I have not heard this sound in such a long time. Thing is, I have just been busy. And I never thought that I could be so busy that I would miss birds.

What brought this to my attention was a show on Channel 13, that was about our troops. I watched a show called Carrier , that was about an aircraft carrier and after or before that show, I watched a show about the submarines and what happens when our people are in the subs for great periods of time. Somewhere after or before the show there was a medley of people, one after another saying what they missed. And so many of course said that they missed their family, their children. Some just missed beer or relationships and dating. One of the soldiers really struck a chord when he stood still, and said, I miss birds. Wow, imagine a sailor missing birds. I am guessing that was a person who lived in the submarine for a long time.

So what do you miss? Do you miss birds?

Linda Perry, a published author, creator of genuine, unique television shows that air on Time Warner and on Cablevision in New York City. A warm-hearted individual who gives a voice to those who have been silent all along. This author produces television shows about almost all topics that help people in their lives. Many of the shows are entertainment; some are information and resources and still others are festivals, fiestas, and community events that bring all people together in one place in the city or in the country.

Attract Birds To Your Garden By Giving Them What They Need

2008-06-07T07:21:00.001-07:00

Birds need five basic things from life. Cover to hide them from their predators, shelter to protect them from the elements, food to provide sustenance, water to drink and to bathe, and nesting sites to raise families. For those bird lovers who want to attract birds to their gardens, they should ensure that their garden has all of the above features.

When a bird is making a decision to live in or visit your garden sanctuary, it is basically asking itself these questions. And will make its decision based on it's instinct.

Where Can I Hide?

In the average cityscape, birds have one major predator - cats. Domesticated and homeless cats kill millions of birds throughout the U.S. every year. Additional predators include other birds such as owls, hawks, and falcons. We also can't forget predators such as snakes, raccoons, squirrels, and chipmunks.

So one of the first things a bird is asking itself is "where can I find cover" to hide and protect myself from predators? You can help the bird make the decision to choose your yard by putting up cat proof fencing. You can also plan your garden so that it has widely spaced open areas to deny cover for predator where they can mount a sneak attack.

Is There Available Shelter?

Evergreens and other bushes planted against garden and house walls provide a natural shelter to shield birds from rain. You can also place a combination bird house and bird feeder in the garden which not only supplies food, but includes a pitched top and side walls that can protect them from rain, heavy storms, and harsh winds.

Is There A Place Where I Can Raise A Family?

During the breeding season, this is one of the primary features that birds are looking for. They are looking for a place where they can settle down for a while with their partner and raise their young ones. Depending on the birds you are trying to attract to your garden, you can plant the appropriate trees, shrubs, hedges, and so on where they would normally nest if they were in the wild. If you are more ambitious, you can buy or build them a custom birdhouse which will meet all of their housing needs.

Is There Plenty Of Food And Water Nearby?

Natural food sources are the best. Birds will look for their natural food sources before attempting other foods. So find out the natural types of foods that your birds of choice like and populate your garden with them. In the winter time when the natural food sources have dried out and birds are having a hard time scrounging up food, bird feeders can be their friend. Populate a bird feeder with seeds, suet, and other alternative food choices that you know they would enjoy. And don't forget water. Birds love and need water and a birdbath will do wonders to attract birds to your yard, In colder climates, an added investment of a few dollars to buy a heated birdbath will pay great dividends in the winter months.

A bird's life is fragile and their existence is fraught with danger for nearly all of their lives. The more you can do to help them beat the odds the better for them and the better for you as you enjoy their presence all year round.

Ken Lawless is an author who writes articles on decorative bird house plans and other topics relating to birds and birdhouses. Visit his site at http://www.birdhousesinfo.com for more information on bird houses.

How To Train Your Parrot

2008-06-07T07:20:00.000-07:00

If you want to properly interact with your parrot, you'll need to train it.

We train our dogs and cats so they don't become unruly; parrots are no exception.

Of course, with parrots, we have an added bonus; they can talk.

If your bird was hand fed by humans when you purchased him or her, training will be much easier than with a bird that was raised by its parents.

The first thing you need to do is to gain your bird's trust.

Once you get your bird's trust, you must work hard to keep it.

Never hit your parrot, even if he does something wrong.

If your bird misbehaves, scold him by giving him the evil eye, and sternly telling him "NO".

If your parrot starts screaming for no apparent reason, cover its cage for a while.

The most important command you should teach your parrot is "UP" or "STEP UP", it could save his life in an emergency.

Slowly approach the bird.

Place your hand in its cage and keep it there for a while.

Your bird may run away, complain, or even attack you, but keep doing this for a few days.

Before long he will calm down and accept you.

If you still have problems after a few days, try using a stick for a perch instead of your hand.

This may take a few tries.

Gently, but firmly press your fingers under the bird's belly.

The bird will instinctively hop on your fingers.

As you are doing this, say, "STEP UP" or "UP".

Before you know it, your parrot will associate the "STEP UP" command with what you want him to do.

Once your bird is on your hand, you can teach him the down command.

Simply tell your parrot "DOWN" as you put him down on his perch.

Keep doing this every time you put your bird down.

Maybe one of the reasons you purchased your parrot in the first place was because of its ability to talk.

Don't be too disappointed if your parrot doesn't talk.

Not all parrots can talk.

Most parrot species can mimic sounds they hear, like whistles and doorbells.

The best age to train your bird is between 4-6 months old.

Start with a simple word like "Hello".

Pronounce the word slowly and clearly.

Use plenty of repetition.

Make sure you're in a quiet room with no distractions.

Keep your training sessions short and sweet.

10-15 minutes a day is plenty of time for your parrot to learn.

After every training session, give your parrot time to relax or play.

If You Find This Article Helpful, Please Link To It!

This article only touches the highlights of living with a parrot.
For much more detailed information, pick up a copy of our new DVD "Parrots-The How-To's Of Caring, Understanding, And Training" available at
http://knowyourparrot.com/

About The Author
Manuel Rose has researched and owned parrots since childhood.
He spent years reading several books and speaking to many avian veterinarians.
Manuel currently owns 3 parrots, his favorite a 13-year-old Blue and Gold macaw named Samantha, which he weaned as a baby.

How To Understand Your Parrot

2008-06-07T07:19:00.000-07:00

Understanding basic parrot behavior will make it easier for you to interact with your bird.
Here are some of the most common bird behaviors that I would like to share with you.

Beak Cleaning.

Just as you brush your teeth after every meal, your bird must clean its beak too.

You'll see your parrot wiping its beak on the perch or bars of his cage after eating.

Beak Grinding.

Before your bird's bedtime, you may hear strange grinding noises coming from your parrot.

This is the sound of a contented bird, and is nothing to be alarmed about.

Stretching.

Just like us, your bird needs to stretch from time to time.

You may notice your bird stretching its wings when you approach him.

That's his way of greeting you.

Catnaps.

It's normal for your parrot to take a few naps during the day.

Hissing Or Attacking.

Birds are territorial creatures and will defend their environment if they feel threatened.

Sometimes a change in your appearance will make the bird think that you are a stranger.

Preening Each Other.

This is a sign of affection.

Birds will preen (groom) each other or you.

If your bird preens your hair or mustache, consider it an honor.

Screaming.

If your parrot feels neglected, she will scream loudly in an attempt to get your attention.

Once your bird starts screaming, it can be a hard habit to break.

Night Frights.

Some birds are prone to night frights, (I know My Cockatiel Is).

These "night frights" occur when there is a loud noise in the middle of the night that will end up startling a bird into a thrashing frenzy.

If this happens to your bird, leave a night light on near its cage.

If You Find This Article Helpful, Please Link To It!

This article only touches the highlights of living with a parrot.
For much more detailed information, pick up a copy of our new DVD "Parrots-The How-To's Of Caring, Understanding, And Training" available at
http://knowyourparrot.com/

About The Author
Manuel Rose has researched and owned parrots since childhood.
He spent years reading several books and speaking to many avian veterinarians.
Manuel currently owns 3 parrots, his favorite a 13-year-old Blue and Gold macaw named Samantha, which he weaned as a baby.

Birds Home Style - Birds Like People, They Do More Than Live In Their Home

2008-06-07T07:17:00.000-07:00

More than any other kind of wildlife, birds have an almost magical hold on the human imagination. They are beautiful, vibrantly alive, and everywhere to be seen. They open our eyes to the world of nature. They enrich our Spirits with their color, their music, and their wondrous gift of flight.

For most of us, the term 'bird's nest' conjures up an image of a cozy bowl made of twigs that safely cradles a bird's delicate eggs and often the developing young. Yet beyond that basic design, the diversity of nest shapes, styles, and building materials is surpassed only by the variety of birds themselves.

Most bird behavior can be classified into one of two types: Social behavior or maintained behavior. Social behavior includes all the interactions between a bird and others of the same or different species. Maintenance behavior encompasses all the daily activities a bird uses to take care of its body.

Social behavior one of the most exciting aspects of bird's lives is how they interact with others during such social activities as defending territories, courting mates, nesting, raising young, and flocking, birds' level of scalability changes with the seasons; they may be gregarious at certain times of the year yet highly territorial at others.

Nests vary from simple to elaborate, and from small and compact to bulky and untidy. Some consist of layers of different types of materials; while some birds live in man made birdhouses; other like the ground scrapes of plovers, are made of nothing at all.

A nest/birdhouse may be located high on a pole, in a tree, on the ground, in an earthen burrow, a tree hole or almost anywhere in between.

Turn your back yard into bird haven. Visit http://www.mycozylittlebirdhouses.com and view Extraordinary birdhouses.

If this article is helpful, please link to it!

Sources: Secret Lives of Common Birds!
Alabama State Emblems, Alabama Department of Archives and History, n.d.

How to Choose the Right Pet Medicine For Your Pet?

2008-06-06T06:17:00.003-07:00

Pets are one of God's greatest gifts to us. They are special in many ways. Pets can have therapeutic effect on people. They have become family members because of their loyalty and faithfulness to us. The best way to reward our pets is make sure that they are healthy. Knowing how to choose the right pet medicine is always as important as choosing the right medicine for your own health.

Pet lovers need to understand their pets better before they even take care of one. It's not enough to own a cat, a dog or a bird without knowing well their needs. Once we own a pet or pets, we accept the responsibility to take really good care of them. We need to consider the fact that they are already part of the family and we would treat them with outmost care and love that they need.

Oftentimes are amazed with the heroic deeds that pets do to their owners and wonder how we can get the same qualities from out own pets at home. Well, some pets are originally born with talents and others were trained to do so. But like humans, pets have that instinct. They have the ability to respond to their owner in the same way they are treated. This is the reason why some pets are charming than others.

A few months ago, I had a pet name Princess and she is one adorable dog. We lost her because we failed to give her a shot of Parvo. She seems to be a healthy dog until she started not to eat and get weaker each day. It was too late to give her a shot as she had been vomiting with blood. Losing her was like losing a family member. It took us about a week to recover from her loss until my sister gave me another one of the same color and we call him Prince to remind us of our late Princess.

There are a lot pet medicines available in the market today. As early as possible we should give them the shots and proper medications recommended by veterinarians. A regular check up is needed to ensure that our pet is healthy. Physical assessment is not enough to determine their health status.

Some evident symptoms of pet diseases are loss of appetite, weigh loss or weight gain, vomiting, restlessness and less playful. When we notice any of these signs, we better bring our pets to vet as soon as possible. There are discount medicines over the counter or you may buy them over the internet if you have no time to shop around. The advantage to shop online besides freeing yourself from the hassle of finding the right store, you can compare prices and choose the brand you want in the internet. With that, you will be able to find cheap pet medicines.

We must beware of overpriced supplements that promise good health for our pets. Look for discounted pet medicines that have the same or even healthier effects on your pet. There are lots of pet stores that offer 50 to 70% discounts on pet medicines. A more practical way than spending so much for the pet medicines.

How healthy is your pet? This is a question that we would probably ask ourselves. We would better be alarmed now than wait for something to happen. Prevention is always better than cure. Though easier said than done, it is not yet too late to act. Choose the right pet medicine and you will be assured your pet stays with your for life.

About The Author: Paul Kramer can help you find solution for your pet meds needs. For discount pet meds needs get his free advice from his pet meds website at http://www.callpetmeds.com/