Friday, February 29, 2008

Dog Care Guide - Dog Rescue

Article Title: Dog Care Guide - Dog Rescue
Author: Pertic Brendon

There are some instances where dogs need to be taken away from
their owners as these people have proved to be neglectful and
sometimes abusive pet owners. To help get these innocent animals
to safety there are different types of dog rescue groups. These
various groups are comprised of professionals in the animal
world like vets, animal handlers, and dog walkers.

When these people are informed about a neglected dog they begin
the dog rescue process. To make sure that the owners will not
cause any problems sometimes the local police will be informed.
Once the dog rescue has been accomplished the team heads back to
a dog shelter.

At the shelter one of the dog rescue team will gain the
animal's trust and the process of settling the dog for the
duration of its stay will begin. The first part of the dog
rescue is to see to the various health aspects of the dog. This
means that the dog must be cleaned up carefully so that any
wounds or injuries will not be further aggravated. Once the dog
has been cleaned and carefully groomed the vet at the dog rescue
will see what the injuries need to be healed.

This process has to proceed very carefully as the dog will be
unsure of its surroundings and will be ready to defend itself.
Once the various wounds and injuries have been looked after, a
nutritious meal will have to be planned. This way any
malnutrition will soon disappear and the dog will soon begin to
look healthy.

The kennel where the dog will stay while it is at the dog
rescue centers will be a temporary home. As soon as a foster
family is found the dog will be moved to stay with the foster
family. It is from these foster families that the dogs will
learn to trust humans and also become sociable animals.

While the dog is with the foster family the other training
factors of dogs are begun. These training periods will be
conducted with love and care so that the dog begins to enjoy
learning all of its new tricks and commands. Once the dog has
fully adapted to being a member of a family the dog is ready for
adoption.

The various applicants who come to the dog rescue will see
happy and healthy dogs just waiting to be adopted and taken
home. For a previously neglected, abused or malnourished dog the
best place to start a new future can be found in a dog rescue.

About The Author: Author's Sites:
http://dogi-food-recipes.blogspot.com ,
http://cat-food-recipes.blogspot.com ,
http://www.easyhomeremedy.com/pet_care/natural_pet_care_index.html

.

__,_._,___

Thursday, February 28, 2008

The Pug: A Breed Of Antiquity

Article Title: The Pug: A Breed Of Antiquity
Author: Jenny A Donaldson

Pugs are little dogs with a big history. It is generally
believed they originated in China sometime from 700 BCE to 400
BCE. Due to trade and wars, Pugs spread from the Imperial courts
of China to the Royal courts of Europe. William, Prince of
Orange was saved from an assassin by the timely warning of his
Pug. Other famous Pug owners include Napoleon's wife Josephine
and painter William Hogarth. The Pug used to be a lot taller and
slimmer than they are today.

For such a small dog, the Pug has a very large history. They
have gone through many changes over the centuries, but one fact
has always been the same – they love being with people. Many
famous people owned Pugs throughout history, which helped to
spread their popularity among the fashionable of the world.
Looking at their history shows us a glimpse of what living with
a Pug is like.

The origins of the Pug are shrouded in mystery and controversy.
Some say there is written proof that they existed in 400 BCE,
but some insist that there was proof they existed as far back as
700 BCE. It is generally believed that Pugs were originally from
Asia, most likely China. This is logical, since all other breeds
of snubbed-faced dogs originated in China, in particular, the
Pekingese. There is some thought that the snub-nosed dogs
mentioned in Chinese writings around 700 BCE were actually
Pekingese and not Pugs.

Small snub-nosed dogs in China were considered Imperial
property. Chinese Emperor Ling To (168 – 190 CE) is reported to
have any Pug-nappers be put to death. However, his Pugs had
Imperial guards around them, so they were most likely safe. Back
then it is thought Pugs came in both long and short coats, again
suggesting a Pekingese influence. Pugs were also seen in many
colors, not just the three colors recognized today (fawn, black
and silver).

Pugs were seen and highly coveted by the first European
explorers and traders with China. Gradually, they became the dog
of the Royal courts of Europe. One of the most notable Pug
owners was Dutch King William the Silent of the House of
Oranges. His pet Pug was a masterful watchdog and warned his
royal master in time to escape an assassin. The Pug then became
the official dog of the House of Orange.

The Pug as we know it didn't come into being until the
formation of a breed standard in the 1800's. Although Pugs had
been longhaired, they now had to come in short haired coats in
order to be shown. Pugs used to come in many different colors,
but for some reason only three official colors are allowed in
both the show rings of Europe and America.

Pugs quickly conquered the hearts and homes of the New World,
where they were one of the first breeds to be approved by the
American Kennel Club in 1885. A renewed interest in Pugs
occurred after the release of the hit movie "Men In Black",
featuring Frank the Pug, who played an alien on Earth. Pugs have
always loved people and always will, as long as the breed
survives. Hopefully, there will be an emphasis on breeding
healthy dogs rather than show-winning dogs in the future. It's
the least we owe the Pug.

About The Author: Jenny Donaldson has met Pugs and their owners
on both sides of the Atlantic. A
http://www.officialpugguide.com/ Pug is an old breed that makes
a great family pet.. Ensuring that the breed is the right one
for your family can be accomplished by studying basic
http://www.officialpugguide.com/Pug.php Pug information.

.

__,_._,___

Dog Adoptions Tips

Article Title: Dog Adoptions Tips
Author: Pertic Brendon

There are many of you who have wanted to bring a dog home as a
pet. There are different ways that you can go about this
business of choosing a dog but you may want to think about the
various needs a dog requires before you consider dog adoptions
as being the right thing to do.

When you are thinking about dog adoptions you will need to see
what type of dog you want to have. You will need to consider if
this dog will be happy with your home and your lifestyle. This
is important as some dogs are really suited for patrolling large
compounds and other types of dogs love to have nice long walks.

Besides seeing if your home and lifestyle are suited for owning
a dog you will have to see if your new pet will have all of the
toys and other accessories that contributes towards their
health. To find what are the best types of toys and other
accessories your dog will need, you should talk with the staff
at the animal shelter where you are hoping to see to your dog
adoption.

Additionally you must find out one other item before you start
think about any sort of dog adoptions. This item is the type of
food that you will need to give your new pet dog. As each breed
is different in temperament and size you will need to buy the
right type of food for the dog. Therefore understanding the
dietary preferences of various dogs will be helpful in your
choice of dogs.

Once you are satisfied about the different needs of these many
dogs, you can consider if you have what it takes to be a good
friend and companion to a dog. You should only go through with
the various procedures of dog adoptions if you are really sure
about owning a dog. You should be prepared to have the shelter
come and see or ask for reports about how your new adoptee is
doing.

Some animal and dog shelters have a trial time period that has
to be accomplished without any hassles for either the dog or
your family before they will consider you as a suitable
candidate for dog adoptions. When everything has been seen to
successfully then you will be able to take your four legged
friend home to start a new life.

While it may seem very easy to own a dog there are many factors
that need to be understood. You should consider dog adoptions
only if you have what it takes to be a good dog lover and
companion.

About The Author: Author's Sites:
http://dogi-food-recipes.blogspot.com ,
http://cat-food-recipes.blogspot.com ,
http://www.easyhomeremedy.com/pet_care/natural_pet_care_index.html

.

__,_._,___

Housebreak Your Puppy While Keeping a Day Job

Title: Housebreak Your Puppy While Keeping a Day Job
Author: Mendy Stern

Housebreak Your Puppy While Keeping a Day Job
Working 8 hours a day and housebreaking a puppy is not as
hard as you may think. In this article we will discuss
things you can do to help you with housebreaking your puppy
and working a full time job.

Crate Training

This is, without a doubt, one of the first essential steps
in training your puppy and an exercise our puppy needs to
master in their early days. It can be an effective means of
housebreaking your puppy. However, many people
misunderstand the proper methods of crate training and the
benefits it will bring. Your dog will see their crate as
their space, their sanctuary, and their escape from the
very odd human world.

Crate Size

Before you start on this training exercise it is important
to consider what size of crate to buy. The crate needs to
be big enough to see your puppy through from their early
days to their full size. Bear in mind though that if it's
too large, your pet may end up using one end as their
'Business' area. Some crates offer divider panels to expand
the size as they grows. Choose one large enough to stand,
comfortably turn, and sprawl.

Evening

Crate Training through the night can be a difficult task,
don't worry. When housebreaking a puppy be mindful that
they will need to "go" as soon as they see you in the
morning. It is very difficult for a puppy to hold his
bladder until they are around 9 months of age.

Make Arrangements

While crate training is excellent for housebreaking
puppies, do not leave your dog confined in a small area for
too long. If your work allows, try to make arrangements to
come home during your lunch hour to allow your it to
relieve himself. Also there are even services you can hire
to provide this. A pet 'holding it' all day can cause
bladder and kidney problems.

When Supervised

While crate training your dog, it's a good idea to leave
the door open so your pet will not be confined to a closed
area. Generally, in addition to housebreaking puppies, you
are creating a safe place where your pet will feel
comfortable sleeping.

Accidents

Don't make crate training a punishment. If your dog does
their 'business' in the house, make a loud, surprised sound
take them outside. Avoid shouting "NO!" for this routine as
they might associate it as something bad. Be sure to give
exaggerated praise when your pet 'goes' outside in the
regular chosen area, so they will learn that there is a
good thing.

Cleanliness

Their crate is their space, but there will be some jobs
you'll need to do on their behalf. Regular cleaning and
disinfecting will protect your dog from illness and you
home from unwanted smells.

Hopefully this has given you some ideas on how to
housebreak your puppy and still keep your day job.

About the Author:

Mendy Stern is the owner of
Doggypads.com,(http://www.doggypads.com ) America's most
trusted puppy pads provider. In addition to selling dog
supplies, Mendy Stern is the ceo of a dog training school
in southern California that provides low cost dog obedience
training to some of the southlands poorest neighborhoods.

.

__,_._,___

Wednesday, February 27, 2008

Pet Checklist - 12 Points To Consider When Buying A Pet

Article Title: Pet Checklist - 12 Points To Consider When
Buying A Pet
Author: Derek Rogers

When you and your family are making the decision to purchase a
pet, you will want to go through a checklist in order to make
sure that it is the right decision for everyone involved. It is
a major life event when bringing a pet into the home and the
decision should not be taken lightly.

With a set guideline or checklist ahead of time, you will
ensure that you are making the correct choice and there will be
no anxiety once your pet comes home to meet his new family.
Nothing can be more gratifying than having a family pet grow and
thrive with you and your family over the years.

1- Room: Is there space for a pet in your home? Larger animals
need space for exercise each day while smaller caged animals
need just a small desk or counter-top. Depending on the type of
ample space you have will portray what type of pet you will be
able to house.

2 – Lifestyle: Does a pet fit your lifestyle? For many busy
families a pet will not fit into their schedule. You will need
to be sure that there is time for a new companion in your home
that may need walking each day, or just a few minutes of simple
contact in order to thrive in your home.

3 – Cost: How much are you willing to spend on a pet? Are you
financially able to maintain that pet if such things as vet
bills become high? Determining your budget will show if you can
really afford the maintenance such as yearly exams, periodic vet
bills in the event of illness, etc.

4 – Regulations: Are you able to legally own a pet? Some
families who rent are not able to have animals in various
apartment buildings or condominiums, while some town homes and
condominium associations have stipulations on what size of
animal is allowed on the premises. Checking out all the
necessary rules before purchasing your new family member.

5 – Pet Supplier: Will you be choosing a pet shop or local
breeder for your pet? Some people decide on animals that are at
local animal shelters. Be sure to do extensive checks on where
your pet comes from, especially if they claim to be purebred.

6 – Traveling: Do you travel a lot? Are you able to travel with
your pet or would you have to find alternative arrangements for
your pet while you are gone.

7 – Veterinarians: Do you have a vet close by that you can
consult in times of need? If you do not have a licensed animal
care provider it may discourage you from choosing an animal that
needs regular care.

8 – Activities: What type of activities do you enjoy doing as a
family? Are these activities the type that you will be taking
your pet with you? A pet is a member of your family and should
not be left at home if you are enjoying time outside where they
could be as well.

9 – Allergies: Do you know anyone with pet allergies? This can
have a direct result on the type of pet you decide on if you get
one at all. Some may find that it is not feasible since their
mother visits each year for 2 weeks in the summer and is highly
allergic to animals.

10 – Other pets: Do you have other pets that need to adapt to a
new member? If so, this can be a very touchy situation when
bringing in other animals into a `1 pet home'.

11 – Previous Pet Experience: Do you have any experience with
owning a pet? If not, are you willing to do the necessary
research in order to know how to take care of your pet properly?

12 – Responsibility: Is the responsibility of this new pet
yours alone or will it be a shared family task? Be sure to set
ground rules with everyone in the family so that it is a
decision everyone is happy with.

If you are still considering a family pet even after going
through this simple checklist and finding out that what you are
looking for is a companion and a friend then you are ready to go
out and purchase your new pet. After going through this list you
will be well equipped with some basic knowledge about what you
need to know when purchasing a new animal for your home.

About The Author: Derek Rogers is a freelance writer who
represents a number of UK businesses. For advice on buying a
pet, he recommends Seapets, one of the UK's leading suppliers of
http://www.seapets.co.uk/ pet supplies.

.

__,_._,___

Finding Proper Bichon Frise Breeders

Article Title: Finding Proper Bichon Frise Breeders
Author: Mary A Stevenson

Know that once you have finally decided it is time to start
looking for Bichon Frise breeders, there are generally two ways
to going about doing it. The world wide web is probably the most
often used because of the speed and the fact that it will give
you information for Bichon Frise breeders from all over the
country and world. By looking through your newspapers you can
find many local Bichon Frise breeders and this way you are able
to see in person where you will be spending your hard earned
money.

You have already spent months, or maybe just days, in trying to
figure out which of the many breeds of dogs is the cutest and
the kind that would work the best inside your home and your
lifestyle. So now you are all ready to go but you are having a
little trouble in finding Bichon Frise breeders. Before you made
the decision to get that particular breed you saw them
everywhere but now that you need one, they are nowhere in site
and you do not know where to look.

Do not panic, there are always a lot of Bichon Frise breeders
around and it may just be your excitement getting to the best of
you. With a little luck, patience, and dedication you will soon
be on your way to bringing your new pet home with you. It is
easy to find a breeder and it will not take as long as you may
think.

With the way our world is beginning to function, we are relying
on technology such as the Internet for everything from getting
ours news, our mail and even for shopping and that includes
shopping for a dog. You can easily find a lot of Bichon Frise
breeders on the Internet but the problem is that even if they
all sound wonderful, without seeing the dog in person, you
really do not know what you are getting until the puppy is
delivered to the airport.

But, on the bright side, you can always take advantage of the
Internet and search for local Bichon Frise breeders and this
way, you are getting the convenience of the Internet search but
are still able to drive to the location of the breeders and
check out the puppies for yourself. All in all, using the
Internet can be an excellent tool in trying to find the puppy
that you have been waiting for.

Another way to go about trying to find Bichon Frise breeders is
by looking through your local newspapers. This will generally
take a lot more time then searching the Internet but you will
know at least that these are breeders that have the dogs on site
and that you can go visit their home environment in order to
make sure that you really want a puppy from that breeder.

Depending on where you live and depending on sheer luck, you
may have to wait a few months before finding any Bichon Frise
breeders, but then again with luck on your side, you may find
one the next time you flip open your paper. Also, if you are
having troubles finding Bichon Frise breeders, you may want to
put a want ad in the paper letting people know the type of dog
you are seeking and you never know, you may end up lucky.

About The Author: Mary Stevenson's extensive love and knowledge
of this breed has spurred a love of teaching other dog lovers.
Many
http://www.bichonfriseguide.com/Bichon_Frise_Breeders/index.php
Bichon Frise breeders are found through searching the Internet
but if you wan to find those that are close to you that you want
you may want to use another search option. A lot of
http://www.bichonfriseguide.com/About_The_Bichon_Frise/index.php
Bichon Frise information points to using the newspaper as a
means of finding many local and trustworthy breeders.

.

__,_._,___

All About The Standard Poodle

Article Title: All About The Standard Poodle
Author: Lisa B Collins

If you want a confident, intelligent dog that enjoys an active
life, a Poodle may be the best breed for you. Poodles are full
of life and energy; inquisitive, dignified; and loyal. For at
least the last ten years, the American Kennel Club of the United
States has listed the Poodle as one of its ten most popular
breeds. One reason Poodles are so popular is that they come in a
variety of size like small, medium and large, known in the dog
world as Toy, Miniature and Standard Poodles.

To measure a Poodle's height against the standard of the breed,
measure the dog at the highest point of the shoulder. A Standard
Poodle measures more than fifteen inches at the shoulder. A
Miniature Poodle measures fifteen inches or less at the
shoulder, and a Toy Poodle measures less than ten inches.

The Poodle's coat is always naturally curly and dense in
texture. Several colors are allowed, including black, white,
apricot, brown, blue, gray and silver. Within each solid color,
slight variations in hue are also allowed.
The origins of the Poodle breed are uncertain, although
Germany, Denmark and France have all claimed credit for
developing the breed. Over the years, France has come to be
recognized as the Poodle's place of origin, and the French hold
a special place in their hearts and in their culture for what
they call the Caniche.

The Standard Poodle is thought to have descended from a mix
between the Barbet, a French water dog and a Hungarian Water
Hound. The Miniature and Toy varieties were bred down from the
Standard Poodle. Once used as a sporting dog, Poodles retrieved
waterfowl during gun hunts. The traditional Poodle cut, with
extra hair at the joints, was meant to insulate the dogs' joints
against the cold water. Poodles also worked as truffle hunters,
and circus performers. In fact, they remain familiar icons in
popular culture, and they continue to perform in the modern
entertainment industry.

Standard Poodle can become famous as a performer, while others
derive their fame from their celebrity owners. Gertrude Stein
and Alice B. Toklas loved their first Poodle, Basket, so much
that they got two more Poodles, named Basket II and Basket III.

Performer "Weird Al" Yankovic has a Toy Poodle named Bela, whom
he on top of his head for the cover of his album "Poodle Hat".
Wrestling star Rene Dupree, who know uses the professional name
"Rene Bonaparte", often refers to his Poodle Fifi.

Poodles are well known as characters in literature, film and
television. The late Jacqueline Susann, the darling of the
1960s, wrote a best-selling novel, Every Night Josephine, about
her Poodle, Josephine. One of many examples of Poodles in film
is the 2000 film Best In Show, which featured a Poodle named
Rhapsody in White as the canine character "Butch". The TV family
in the animated series Rugrats has a Poodle named Fifi as a pet.
Although most Standard Poodles will never appear on the pages of
a novel or on the big screen, their owners consider them
superstars of the highest magnitude.

About The Author: Lisa Collins is a Poodle breeder and
freelance writer who has written four books on Poodles. The
Standard http://www.officialpoodleguide.com/ Poodle is a popular
breed because of its superior intelligence and pleasant
personality. More http://www.officialpoodleguide.com/Poodle.php
Poodle information about getting your dog into show business can
be obtained from a theatrical agency.

.

__,_._,___

Tuesday, February 26, 2008

What Every Dog Owner Ought to Know About Holiday Safety

Title: What Every Dog Owner Ought to Know About Holiday Safety
Author: Jennifer Koretsky

What Every Dog Owner Ought to Know About Holiday Safety
The Christmas holidays are fast approaching! While you're
busy decorating and preparing your home for guests, here
are a few important tips to keep your dog safe this season.

The Christmas Tree

Tinsel, small ornaments, and ornament hooks are major
choking hazards for dogs. It's best to avoid tinsel
altogether and keep small ornaments high on the tree, out
of the dog's reach. Also, make sure there are no stray
ornament hooks on the floor!

If your family has a real tree (as opposed to an artificial
tree), it's best to block off the area around the tree with
a screen or gate. Many dogs become ill from drinking tree
water and ingesting pine needles. Vacuum the area around
the tree regularly.

Holiday Guests

It's exciting to have family and friends over during the
holidays—even for your dog! But there are certain
precautions you should take when having company over.

Dogs can easily slip out the door when people are
continuously going in and out. Make sure your dog is
wearing an identification tag with your phone number, even
if he is micro-chipped. Not everyone who finds a lost dog
knows to have him checked for a micro-chip.

Your guests may adore your dog, but don't let them give
your dog any food without asking. Children especially may
want to give the dog a treat—hand them a safe treat
and supervise while they give it to the dog. Under no
circumstances should your dog be given turkey or chicken
bones. They are too small and are a serious choking hazard.
As an alternative, buy a marrow bone at the grocery store
as a special holiday treat.

Why You Shouldn't Give Dogs as Gifts

Bringing a new dog into the family is a wonderful thing,
especially if you adopt a dog from a shelter. However,
giving a dog as a Christmas gift is never a good idea.
Regardless of whether the dog is a puppy or an adult, his
first few days in your home should be all about him. The
holidays, for most families, are too chaotic and busy for a
dog to get used to his new environment, and he may become
anxious or frightened.

A great idea for families who want to give their children a
dog for Christmas is to gift wrap a dog bone. When the
child opens it, tell them it's for the new dog that you'll
be getting in a few weeks. Or you can leave a note from
Santa explaining that he didn't have enough room on his
sleigh and will be coming back with the dog. Animal
shelters are flooded every January with dogs who were given
as Christmas gifts—so January is a great time to
adopt a dog who needs a home.

Lastly, it's always a good idea to have your vet's phone
number posted in a visible spot. Your vet's office should
have someone answering the phone 24/7.

The most important thing to remember, amidst all the chaos
of the holidays, is to always know where your dog is and
what he's up to. That way everyone in your home, including
the four-legged family members, can have a Merry Christmas.

About the Author:

luvmutt.com is a website dedicated to mixed breed dogs and
the people who love them. Meet a new dog every day at
http://www.luvmutt.com .

.

__,_._,___

Monday, February 25, 2008

Training A Dog Not To Bark, As Part Of Your Dog Behaviour Training

Article Title: Training A Dog Not To Bark, As Part Of Your Dog
Behaviour Training
Author: Mick Legg

ALL DOGS BARK, it's a natural thing for a dog to bark and
should not be discouraged when it is appropriate, i.e. when a
stranger comes to the house, or if the dog hears out of place
noises during the night. At these times your dogs bark is a
welcome and reassuring warning. So you should only be training a
dog not to bark at the wrong times.

However a dog that continually barks for no apparent reason can
become a bit of a nuisance, both to you and to your neighbours.
So training your a dog not to bark, should be a part of your
overall dog behaviour training. Any random or nuisance barking
should be stopped as soon as possible, preferably when the dog
is still young, as it will become harder the older the dog gets.

If you are with your dog when it starts barking for no apparent
reason, simply tell it to stop. The actual words or commands you
use will not matter as long as you always use the same commands,
and say them with authority. If this fails to have any effect,
then try saying the commands while at the same time giving a
quick jerk on its collar or leash. And remember to quietly
praise him or her when they obey.

Solitary barking is when your dog barks when no one else is at
home. (Or when it thinks no one else is at home.) It will often
bark incessantly, if you have close neighbours and your dog is
one of these, then you will soon know about it, as you will no
doubt receive complaints pretty quickly. This type of barking
can be a real nuisance and you should try to stop it right away.

One way of stopping a solitary barker is to pretend to leave
the house, wait for it to start barking, and then quietly return
and catch it in the act. Reprimand it with the same commands or
phrases that you used before, and again quietly praise them when
they stop. Doing this a few times should soon stop your dog from
being a nuisance every time you leave the house.

You should try to stop your dog from becoming a solitary barker
before it develops too far. You can easily do this with a few
simple tips, such as getting it used to being alone gradually.
Try going out just for short lengths of time to start with, and
building up to longer and longer periods. You could also try
leaving a radio on in the house for company, and make sure your
dog has its favourite toy.

A dog is part of your family and should be shown the love and
respect that it deserves. By training a dog not to bark at the
wrong times, as part of a dog behaviour training programme, you
are helping it and yourself to a more fulfilling and rewarding
relationship that will last for years to come. (And you will
probably get on with your neighbours a lot better as well.

About The Author: For more dog training tips and advice visit
our site at: http://www.BuyTryReview.com/category/pets

.

__,_._,___

Sunday, February 24, 2008

Pet Care Tips - Adopt A Puppy

Article Title: Pet Care Tips - Adopt A Puppy
Author: Pertic Brendon

Have you ever passed by a pet store only to turn around and
walk back to stare at the antics of an adorable bundle of fluff.
When this happens you may find yourself in the pet store looking
into the idea of how to adopt a puppy. Once you have finished
with the various procedures that are necessary for the adoption
of your new pet you are ready to go home with this little bundle
of fluff.

Now if you are prepared for the realities of having a puppy
then adopting a puppy will not cause much havoc in your
lifestyle. On the other hand you may have thought to adopt a
puppy as a spur of the moment decision. The result of an action
like this is that both you and your new puppy are in somewhat of
a mess.

The best way to avoid falling into a mess like this is to think
carefully about the various facts that are present when you
adopt a puppy. You can ask your various friends about matters
like good puppy food, a place for your puppy to sleep, training
your puppy not to make a mess in your home and what should you
do if the puppy does have an accident indoors.

Once you have found the answer to the matter of your pet's
health and well being you will need to see which type of puppy
you want to adopt. It is best if you see what kind of puppy you
want before you go to adopt a puppy. There are many adorable
puppies that you will see. You have the pure bred puppies like
golden retrievers, Labradors, English Collies, great Danes,
Dalmatians and many others.

Having looked at the many puppies you should remember that
while you want to adopt a puppy eventually this puppy will grow
into a full size dog. Therefore you must be prepared for the
necessary care of your puppy with the knowledge that most its
behavior patterns will be set once your pet has become a full
size dog.

These facts and the other requirements that are needed for the
health and happiness of a puppy will need to be considered.
Therefore when you desire to have a puppy in your life and home
these factors will need to be found out and kept ready for all
of the mischievous antics that your new puppy will engage in.

Even though you can easily adopt a puppy you should remember
that one day this little puppy will become a dog. So you should
adopt a puppy only if you are prepared to have the adult dog as
a life long companion.

About The Author: Author's Sites:
http://dogi-food-recipes.blogspot.com ,
http://cat-food-recipes.blogspot.com ,
http://www.easyhomeremedy.com/pet_care/natural_pet_care_index.html

.

__,_._,___

Saturday, February 23, 2008

How To Keep Your Pup's Hygiene At The Top

Article Title: How To Keep Your Pup's Hygiene At The Top
Author: Elise Rogers

Dandruff is a condition that plagues many human beings
throughout the globe. Not only can it be uncomfortable, it can
be embarrassing as well. Did you know that dogs can get dandruff
too? Not only can dogs get it, it is much worse! Because hair
covers their entire body, they usually get dandruff everywhere,
not just on their scalp! It also can make dogs irritated with
all the scratching they do because of their itchy skin. A simple
growth of dandruff can turn ugly due to constant scratching-
which may cause skin to break.

So, how does dandruff occur? Dandruff is often the result of
proliferating skin cells; that is, it occurs when the skin cells
grow, die, then flake off. Dandruff can also occur sometimes
when their skin becomes too dry, due to cold weather, a
dehydrating shampoo, or too frequent bathing. It is important to
try to remedy this issue as soon as it begins. You don't want
your dog becoming overly irritated and scratching themselves all
the time. If it gets bad, excessive scratching can lead to
redness and soreness of the skin.

So how can doggie dandruff be taken care of? Too frequent
bathing can cause dandruff; however, not washing your pet often
enough can also cause dandruff. If you feel this may be the
case, give your dog a bath and be sure to scrub them gently (yet
firmly) to get rid of all the excess and dead skin on your pup's
body. A general rule of thumb is to bathe your pet once a month
in the winter and twice in the summer.

Using a gentle shampoo (such as baby shampoo) or a special dog
moisturizing shampoo will help hydrate and pamper your pet's
skin. Thoroughly rinse your pet with warm (not hot!) water to
ensure all of the shampoo is washed out (wait until the water
runs clear).

If using a moisturizing pet shampoo or a baby shampoo doesn't
work, go ahead and purchase a doggie dandruff shampoo for more
power. Make sure it contains sulfur or salicylic acid, because
these are the driving agents behind getting rid of itchy
dandruff, as well as soothing the skin. Though this is difficult
with a dog in a bathtub, make sure your pet sits in the lather
for at least 5 minutes before rinsing it off. This will allow
the product to thoroughly seep in and become active. As a side
note, do not attempt to use human dandruff shampoos. These are
made out of strong formulas that can be very harmful to pets,
though they are perfectly safe for human use.

Doggie dandruff is uncomfortable, itchy, and unsightly. Help
your dog out by bathing them properly and by washing them with
doggie dandruff shampoo when it is necessary. Remember to brush
them daily as well; this will help evenly distribute the skins
natural oils thus helping with hydration.

Keep your dog healthy by grooming them properly and by bathing
them with the correct products. Then you will have a healthy,
happy, and itch-free pup!

About The Author:
http://www.discount-pet-mall.com/pet-supplies/dog-beds/
http://www.discount-pet-mall.com/pet-supplies/elevated-dog-feeders/

.

__,_._,___

What Veterinarians Say Your Pet Needs Besides Exercise

Article Title: What Veterinarians Say Your Pet Needs Besides
Exercise
Author: Ronny Sikes

Believe it or not, obesity is the number one health disorder in
dogs today. According to recent research, approximately
twenty-five percent of all dogs are obese (that statistic does
not include overweight dogs). Similar to humans, too much weight
from fat can cause serious health problems in dogs.

Learning to recognize obesity in dogs is essential in your job
as the primary caretaker of your pet. If your dog weighs more
than approximately twenty percent of their target body weight,
they are most likely considered obese. Just like humans, weight
gain occurs when a dog consumes more calories than they burn off
with exercise. It can be difficult for owners to notice if their
dog is gaining weight because it is a gradual process that takes
time. A good test to tell whether or not your dog is overweight
or obese is to do the rib test. Simply place your hands on you
dog's rib cage, and if you can easily feel their ribs then they
are most likely within their ideal weight. If you have
difficulty feeling their ribs or cannot feel them at all, then
your dog is more than likely overweight or obese.

If you feel that your dog may be overweight or obese, contact
your veterinarian to discuss possible weight loss programs for
your dog. Do not begin a weight loss plan for your dog on your
own; dogs are built differently than humans, and they require
slightly different weight loss methods.

Most veterinarians will focus on your dog's calorie intake.
Like humans, if dogs consume more calories than they use, their
bodies store it as fat. Dogs do need fat and protein in their
diet, so simply buying a "fat-free" doggie food will not do the
trick (not mention they shouldn't even exist). Most
veterinarians will recommend keeping your dog on their same food
brand, though they will recommend you either feed your dog one
less meal (if you feed them multiple times throughout the day)
or simply decrease the size of their food scoop, thus giving
them less food.

If you are thinking about losing some extra weight yourself and
want to include your dog in your exercise plan (i.e. walking or
jogging), be sure to discuss your idea with your vet. Just like
humans, dogs that are overweight and out of shape cannot
immediately hop up and run for two miles without putting
themselves at risk. When you talk to your dog's vet, you will be
able to determine how much your pet will be able to handle, and
you will receive advice on what is the best pace and distance
for you and your dog to start out with.

Just like humans, obesity can cause serious health problems in
dogs; clogged arteries, pressure on joints and bones, and even
respiratory problems. Be aware of your pet's weight, and if you
are concerned, see your veterinarian. They will help you decide
what is best for your dog, and you will be able to work out an
effective plan that will keep your dog happy and healthy!

About The Author:
http://www.pet-super-store.com/pet-supplies/elevated-dog-feeders/
http://www.pet-super-store.com/pet-supplies/pet-carriers/

.

__,_._,___

Aloe For Dogs

Article Title: Aloe For Dogs
Author: Pamela Glynn

What's Aloe Vera? It's a kind of cactus, isn't it? How can a
cactus help Sam's stiff limbs?"

Those were my words of about ten years ago. I said them to my
daughter, Joanna, who was gleefully holding up a chubby yellow
tub. She seemed to think its Aloe contents held the answer to my
8-year-old Bearded Collie's arthritic problem. I disagreed. My
reason? I knew that Joanna had been drinking Aloe Vera for her
IBS – and that it had helped the condition. At that stage I saw
no connection whatsoever between Sam's stiffness and her
stomach!

I had a lot to learn. My `Aloe education' began with the 60 mls
of the drink that I eventually agreed to pour over Sam's dinner.
A finicky dog, he often refused food initially and almost never
pounced on it like so many of his friends and relatives seemed
to do. I'm not suggesting that he pounced now … but to my
astonishment he ambled over quite soon and, after sniffing this
`new food', polished it off quickly (for him) and even licked
his bowl clean.

Having tasted the Aloe in the tub, I found Sam's apparent
enthusiasm for it mystifying and dismissed it as a very
temporary blip. But I was wrong, because he was enthusiastic
again the next night … and the next. Did he know something I
didn't?

Suspecting that he and Joanna shared a secret that excluded me
because of my inbred skepticism about `alternative' products, I
did some digging.

In the process I learned that, far from being a cactus, Aloe
Barbadensis Miller (the true Aloe Vera) is a member of the lily
family, related to garlic, onions and asparagus.

Having been around for thousands of years, it has been used for
centuries to maintain health and enhance beauty. Cleopatra is
said to have bathed in it, while Dioscorides, the Ancient Greek
physician, is reputed to have used it in his pills and potions.

But we'd moved on since then, hadn't we – and now vets dealt
with animal health? Well, yes, and they do that brilliantly! All
the same, while reading about Aloe Vera's natural
anti-inflammatory properties (which seemed perhaps to explain
Joanna's insistence that this drink might benefit both her IBS
and Sam's stiffness) I was witnessing a difference in Sam.

In the two or so weeks that had elapsed his `bounce' had come
back! For the uninitiated, I'll just mention that Bearded
Collies in good health do seem to have paws with inbuilt springs
– and now Sam was bouncing around like a young thing. Still
disbelieving, I said nothing to anyone, fully expecting this to
be a very temporary phenomenon. But it wasn't – and my fellow
dog-walkers started commenting, as well as asking questions that
I wasn't yet equipped to answer.

Before long, even Sam's vet wanted to know what I was doing
differently – and, as often happens in life, one thing led to
another …

© P.G. Glynn 2008

About The Author: I am a published author, both of a novel in
hardback and many articles, some about Aloe Vera, which I've now
been marketing for 10 years. Please visit my new website to read
Sam's story (told in his own words)and learn more about animals
and Aloe. Free Aloe Brochure. http://www.my-aloe-vera.com

.

__,_._,___