Choosing Your First Indoor Cat

By David W Johnson

Deciding to be a pet owner and caregiver is a big responsibility. Owning an indoor cat can bring years of enjoyable pleasure for you and your new companion friend. Although cats are seen as self-reliant, you as the owner will always have to be the diligent parent.

If you've never owned any pets before, you should get some pet education before bringing your new furry friend home.

Probably the best way to find out about caring for an indoor cat is to visit the homes of friends who have indoor cats. Your friends can be an excellent resource for what's going to be required of you to care for a cat. Other resources are community cat clubs, veterinarians, animal shelters, books, tapes, videos, and the Internet.

Before you get your first cat, decide what your commitment to this relationship will be. How much devotion, cost, effort, and attention are you willing to provide to your new friend. Also consider what your personal preferences are for the new family addition. Are you looking for?

• Kitten or Adult
• Longhair or Shorthair
• Male or Female
• Breed (Persian, Burmese, etc)
• Pedigree or Non-Pedigree

To many, a kitten is a cute, cuddly bundle of joy, just like a new born baby. But like a baby, you'll need to watch over carefully to the health of the kitten as it grows to adulthood. An adult cat, on the other hand, is more capable of attending to its own personal care.

Hair
Cats shed hair, just like humans. Some breeds shed more hair than others. Cats are fastidious groomers. Be prepared and none too surprised when they vomit a hairball from time to time -- completely natural with little cause for alarm. It's a good practice to routinely brush your cat to collect the loose hair.

Shorthair cats usually need less routine brushing than longhairs. If you brush your cat routinely, they can have less incidents of hairballs and upset digestion. Giving your cat a bath (cat formulated shampoo only) once in a great while is good also.

Gender
Cats are individuals. Both female and male cats can make wonderful companions. If the cat has been spayed or neutered, then the cat's gender doesn't play a huge role. The cat's own unique personality will determine how good of a pet it will make. Your personal preference may be to choose a cat whose personality is agreeable to yours.

Breed
Generally the cat's breed isn't a factor and your selection usually is a personal preference.

Pedigree
You may choose a pedigree cat if your intention is to invest, breed, or show. There are other reasons why someone would choose a pedigree over a non-pedigree, and that's a personal choice. Expect to pay more for a pedigree primarily because its lineage can be traced and its pedigree is highly prized by others.

Non-pedigree cats are just as cute and cuddly as the pedigree. A lot less expensive too!

Summary
A cat is a wonderful addition to your family and will give you many years of enjoyable pleasure.

www.PetFoodStory.com Veterinarian formulated holistic pet food products for cats and dogs.

 

Christmas With Your Cat

Christmas time is the time of year where we lavishly decorate our homes with twinkling lights and coloured decorations. Our centrepiece is a wonderful scented fir tree, which we cover with spangle balls and tempting chocolates. All these things help to make our homes feel cosy and warm and traditionally seasonal. Unfortunately we are not the only ones attracted by the tinsel and the light, our cats with their highly inquisitiveness are also going to take particular interest in all our Christmas excess and sparkle. But lurking within those Christmas celebrations are hidden dangers for our furry friends.

So with our pet cats in mind, we should decorate our homes this Christmas with care and put in place precautions to keep them safe. Things to consider are:

Holly, Mistletoe and Poinsettias - these are all plants that we traditionally like to bring into our homes during the Christmas period. Unfortunately all these plants are toxic to cats and if eaten can cause serious illness. So always ensure that these plants are not accessible to your cats, place them on high shelves or drape them over centre light fittings. But if you have a cat that is very agile and inquisitive it may be safest not to bring these plants into the house.

Christmas trees - It is practically impossible to stop your cat from exploring this new and interesting item. The only thing you can do is to make sure that it as safe as absolutely possible and that the cat is not allowed access to it alone. A few measures to take are:

Have a tree that does not shed its needles too quickly if at all. Some fir trees don't shed, while others have particularly spike needles that are perfect for getting in soft paws and worse still being eaten.

Make sure the tree is firmly secured and will not tip over.

Place breakable decorations further up the tree and not in the lower branches where they become new play things for your cat.

Spray some strong smelling liquid onto the and around the base of the tree. Diluted Lemon juice is good and will help to deter kitty coming too close.

Tinsel and other Christmas decorations - Always place decorations especially tinsel out of the cats reach. It is just too tempting for your cat and if swallowed cat cause blockages.

Artificial snow - this is toxic to cats, so should be avoided if possible. If you must have it, make sure your cat is not left alone in a room with it, especially at nighttime.

Another danger to look out for during the Christmas period is visitors or family members giving chocolates to your cat. They may think they are giving them a treat but actually they are poisoning them. Chocolate contains methylxanthines and theobromines, which are very toxic for both cats and dogs; it over stimulates their nervous system and cardiovascular system. Always keep chocolates covered up and out of reach of your pets, also let guests know about the dangers.

Symptoms of eating chocolate are vomiting, hyperactivity, diarrhoea, agitation and frequent urination. If you suspect that your cat has eaten some chocolate and is showing some signs of illness they should be taken to the vets immediately. In the worse case scenario, death can occur and all from eating a few charismas chocolates. So extra special care should be taken to keep such goodies away from our pets.

Amongst al the celebrates and visitors it is easy for your cat to begin to feel a little neglected and even scared, especially if there is a lot of noise and unexpected people in the house. Always try to find some time during all the Christmas day mayhem to pay them some attention. It is also a good idea to put aside a separate room for your cat to retreat to if you are expecting a lot of guests. Place in the room somewhere warm for them to sleep, a few of their favourite toys and make sure they have a clean litter tray and some water available. So if your cat decided that it is all too much for them they can be placed in this room and be kept safe and comfortable until things return to normal.

We might like Christmas and all it's fuss and glitter, but your cat may not feel the same way especially if we don't pay particular attention to their needs during this time.

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. Copyright 2007 Kate Tilmouth

 

How To Protect Your Pet In The Cold

The cold winter months are fast approaching, if they have not arrived already. Winter is the season for fun, family, the holidays, and cold weather. If you live in an area that has snow and ice, here are a few tips for caring for your pet during the cold winter months.

First, protection for you pet's precious paws is essential. The cold and hard ground, particularly when snow or ice is present can cause your pet's paws to become sore and cracked; sometimes, it can even cause their paws to bleed. There are several things you can do to help protect your pet's paws. Oftentimes, the best option is to purchase puppy boots. These boots are made of water-resistant fabric on the exterior, and they usually have warm material such as fleece or flannel lining on the inside. They usually sport elastic cuffs around the top and Velcro underneath to ensure they stay on.

If your pet does not take to wearing booties, there is another option: grooming your pet's paws. When it is particularly snowy outside, the ice and snow can easily cling to the hair between your pet's paws and on their paw pads and 'ankles'. Simply trim the hair to keep it short, this way they snow and ice will have nothing to hold on to. Also, keep your pet's toenails trimmed short (but not too short). This can help prevent your pup's paws from soreness. Finally, gently rub petroleum jelly on your puppy's paw pads before and after they go outside. Doing this protects their paws from cracking and bleeding by providing a film of protective gel over the paws.

Winter nights are cold, especially if you like to keep your house somewhat cool, even in the winter season. Secondly, to help your pup remain warm and comfy at night, there are a few things you may want to consider. If your pet does not have a doggie bed, you may want to get one for your pooch this holiday season. Doggie beds are built so your pet can snuggle warmly at night in their soft fabric bed. You can also buy your pet a throw or a fleece blanket. When you put your dog to bed at night, simply toss the blanket or throw over their body, and it will help keep them warm.

Another option to purchase puppy pajamas. It may sound silly, but flannel pajamas for dog's can really help keep them insulated and warm. Also, if your dog tends to shed, this is a great option, because it contains the shed hair within the garment until you wash it. This is great because then you won't have pet hair all over your couch, on your bed, or other warm places in your house that you don't want covered in pet hair.

Help keep your pet warm and protected from the winter elements this holiday season. Consider purchasing winter wear such as water-resistant booties, puppy pajamas, or even a coat or jacket. A doggie bed and pet throw or blanket can also go a long way. Remember, investing in your pet's comfort is investing in your pet's happiness. It is well worth the cost!

Article brought to you by Dog-Fence.org. Visit our site today for information on responsible pet owner duties.

 

What Your Basset Hound Inherits

This short-legged breed of dog of the hound family, a Basset Hound attracts the attention of many dog lovers because of its long downward ears, wrinkles around its sad eyes and tail tipped in white. Though this breed tends to be healthier compared to other breeds of dog, they are not exempted to inherit diseases and disorders that could damage their health and stop them from doing their usual activities.

Dog lovers, especially those who prefer a basset Hound should be aware of these diseases and disorders that could possibly be inherited by their dogs.

Bleeding Disorders - Bleeding disorders inherited by dogs are Von Willebrand's disease and Canine Thrombophatia. Von Willebrand's disease affects the blood's ability to clot while Canine Thrombophatia is a disorder of small blood cells called platelets or thrombocytes. Excessive bleeding will occur when a dog with one of these diseases is wounded because of the inability of the blood to clot. Signs of bleeding disorder include excessive bleeding from wounds, bleeding from the nose or gum, blood in stool or urine and red spots on the underside of the belly.

Bloat - Bloat is another term used to describe gastric dilatation. It is a life-threatening condition in which a dog's stomach fills up with swallowed air and then rotates. A dog normally swallows air during exercise or strenuous activity or when a dog swallows food or water. However, the swallowed air should be released through burp or else bloat develops. Bloat may quickly result in death because once the stomach has rotated, the blood supply is cut off and the dog's condition declines quickly. A swollen belly and non-productive vomiting and retching indicate this disease. Another indications include restlessness, abdominal pain, rapid and shallow breathing and profuse drooling.

This disease can be easily prevented. To prevent bloat from developing, veterinarians recommend dog owners to feed their Basset Hound two to three small meals a day instead of the usual one large meal. Giving water during meals or immediately after feeding is not advisable. After meal, wait for a while before allowing your dog to drink water. Avoiding strenuous activities before and after eating is also recommended.

Elbow and Hip Dysplasia - Abnormal development of the elbow and hip joint result to elbow and hip dysplasia in a growing dog. Lameness is often the indication of this disease but if not properly treated will result to arthritis. Aside from acquiring this disease genetically, environmental factors such as nutrition, weight gain and rate of growth may also trigger this disease to occur.

Luxating Patella - Luxating patella is an inherited disorder in which the kneecap dislocates or mover out of its normal position. Trauma can also cause this disease to occur. Lameness in the affected rear leg is the indication of this disease.

A Basset Hound that is seriously affected with any genetic disorder must be excluded from all breeding programs to best prevent the occurrence of these inherited diseases.

Richard Cussons is a great lover of dogs. Discover more about Basset Hound dogs at bassethoundsavvy.com

Protecting Your Cats and Dogs in Winter

By Elyse Grau

In the summer we worry about keeping our pets cool, come winter and it's time to think about keeping them warm and dry. Here are some simple ways you can protect your pets this winter.

The easiest, safest way to keep your pets warm is to keep them indoors, especially overnight. Older dogs, puppies, and dogs with certain diseases such as diabetes, heart and kidney problems should never be kept outside. All cats should remain indoors.

Some dogs tolerate cold weather better than others. Some dogs can take cold better than others, such as Alaskan Malamutes and Huskies. Short -haired and toy dogs will have a particularly hard time in the cold.

Snow and ice can pose problems for dogs. Snow can get packed between dog's toes and freeze, causing pain and discomfort. To avoid this problem, keep the hair between the toes cut short.

Keeping nails cut short also helps. Shorter nails allow for better traction. If a dog is slipping on ice it tends to splay the toes, which causes more snow to pack between them.

If you are walking your dog on sidewalks or streets that have been salted to melt ice, be sure to wash his paws when you return. The salt can be drying and irritating to the paws.

If a dog must be kept outside during the day, be sure to provide proper shelter. An oversized dog house or shed will not retain enough heat. The house should be just large enough for the dog to stand up and turn around.

Do not use blankets for bedding. These will just get wet and freeze. Clean straw or hay is preferable.

Position the house on the south or east side of the house if possible, out of the wind. Raising it up off the ground helps, too.

Remember that the dog's water may freeze if left outside. Putting the water in a deep container helps keep it from freezing. Also plastic is a better choice in this case, as metal conducts the cold quicker. Dark colored dishes will absorb more heat than lighter ones, slowing the freezing action. Be sure to break up any ice on the surface of the water each morning.

Are you aware of the dangers of antifreeze? Ethylene glycol based antifreeze is deadly to cats and dogs! Be sure to keep containers tightly capped and out of reach. Wipe up any spills immediately. For the safest bet, use one of the alternative products made with propylene glycol instead.

Outdoor cats will look for warm spots to curl up. Some cats have learned that cars and trucks offer nice warm nooks. They will crawl up into the wheel-wells or engine compartments. Banging on the hood before you get in your car is a good idea in case you have a stowaway.

Indoors, pets will often curl up next to heaters or under wood stoves. Watch out for tails and fur getting too close to heating elements! Make sure your cat does not overheat.

Some extra vigilance may be needed if you will have a Christmas tree. Anchoring the tree to the wall is a good precaution. Tinsel can be dangerous to pets if ingested, so either don't use it, or place it well out of reach of cats and dogs. Start hanging decorations a few feet from the bottom of the tree.

If you have a puppy, don't leave gifts unattended under the tree. Don't use string or dangling ribbons on packages if you have a cat. Cover the base of the tree to keep animals from drinking the water.

There is debate over the toxicity of Poinsettias. Even if they are not deadly, the sap is an irritant and will probably make the animal sick. Holly and mistletoe berries are poisonous; so keep them out of reach of pets.

Elyse is the founder of The Original Dog Biscuit Company. She has extended knowledge of pet nutrition and feeding, as well as practical experience in the raising of cats, dogs and other animals. She is a herbalist, specializing in animals. Read more of her articles at: http://www.pethealthresource.com

Recipes For Homemade Dog Treats - Your Dog Will Bend Over Backwards For More

If you are concerned about what you're feeding your dog since the recent pet food recalls, recipes for homemade treats are worth a closer look. Making your own treats is not much more expensive than buying them commercially. In fact, it may be cheaper.

Commercial treats contain small amounts of low quality meat and large amounts of filler. They are also full of artificial colors, flavors and preservatives. These scientifically engineered foods resemble nothing that dogs would eat in the wild. More and more people are taking the time to remove artificial foods from their diets - isn't it time to do the same for your pet? Take the time to research some recipes and begin making your own chewing bones, cookies and other snacks. You might actually have fun doing it!

To learn how to make snacks for your dog, first find a website or book with appropriate recipes. There are many available for a reasonable price, and they will help you design a diet appropriate to your dog's breed and size. This diet should also include small training rewards for good behavior. Be sure to calculate these treats into your pet's daily nutritional requirements.

Before you begin using recipes, be sure to consult your veterinarian. Explain to her that you want to start cooking for your dog, and show them the recipes. Getting your vet to approve the new diet is the best way to be sure you're doing what's best for your dog, since they know exactly what nutrients your pet's needs. You also need to take into account that your dog's need will change with his age, so be sure to adapt your cooking to his requirements.

Some snacks can be as simple as combining leftovers and meat scrap. However, there are recipes that are actually quite fun to follow as well. Imagine being able to make your dog his very own biscuits and cookies! He'll literally jump for joy and bend over backwards to get more!

By cooking food for your dog, you're choosing to extend your dog's life in a natural way - by feeding him the right food. Researching recipes for homemade treats is a great way to keep your favorite companion healthy and happy. Avoid commercial snacks as soon as you can and gradually introduce the new ones - your pet is sure to love them. After all, they contain actual meat, vegetables, and grains - real food!

Want to get started right away? Download your free ebook for making your own food and treats. Before you take off to the kitchen, download your free homemade food report on what does NOT belong into anything your dog eats. Patrick Doherty has been making his own dog food since 2003. Back then he discovered the shocking truth about commercial dog food and has never bought a single can again.

 

Pet Relocation Specialist by www.Relocation-ology.info: Safe Trips

There are so many things to plan for when it comes to moving away from where you currently live and in to a new location that it can be hard to keep track of them all. In fact, there are so many things to worry about that it can be relatively easy to forget something. One of the often overlooked aspects of moving is what will happen to your pets. You can't exactly pack them in with the rest of your belongings and load them onto your moving truck. Instead, you need a plan that only a pet relocation specialist by company name can do. These people are trained in handling animal related queries and can help you plan what will happen to your cat, dog, or other home pet once you commence your relocation. There are many reasons why working with a pet relocation specialist by company name is a good idea, and if you really want this kind of help, then you will likely consider them all.

One of the main reasons why you should think about getting the help of a pet relocation specialist by company name is because they care a lot about animals. Sure, there are regular relocation companies that handle the standard aspects of a move, but they don't usually have the kind of love of animals that is required when you are doing work like this. You need someone who likes animals and wants to see them be comfortable and safe. After all, that's what will need to happen. If you want them to relocate with you, you are going to have to plan safe passage for them. Then again, you can always get a pet relocation specialist by company name to do it for you. This is a good idea because they will have a lot of experience with planning things such as these. They will also know who and what to avoid so that you don't fall for any scams or anything of that sort.

If you want this kind of service, you can find a pet relocation specialist by company name if you look around in places like the internet. Be sure to work with someone that you trust. Although your pet isn't technically your child, they often feel that way. You want to let someone that you would trust with your child to handle the various aspects of relocating your pet animals. Then you likely won't regret the decision to use a service like this in the first place. After all, so many other people do it with great results.

About the Author

Article by Iwan at http://www.Relocation-ology.info. Find out more about relocation and get free report at => http://www.relocation-ology.info

 

Don't Deny Your House Cat The Great Outdoors! Use a Cat Leash

By David W Johnson

As any cat owner knows, cats love the outside. But it's hard to let your beloved pet out of the house to wander knowing they could be run down by a car or torn apart by an aggressive raccoon. So they usually spend their days sitting by the window staring longingly at the world outside. But thanks to the invention of the cat leash, your pet can enjoy the best of both worlds without the danger of becoming injured or killed.

Some people may say that cats don't belong on a leash. "Leashes are for dogs!" they argue. But taking your cat out for a walk on a cat leash is the perfect way to protect your pet while also improving their quality of life. After all, even though they aren't dogs, your cat deserve to get out of the house every once in a while.

Training your cat to wear a cat leash can take some time. A normal cat leash is more than just a collar that fits around the cat's neck, because as anyone can probably figure out, a cat would end up hanging itself if that was the setup. The cat leash is an actual harness that fits along the cat's body and attaches to a leash that you can then use to guide your cat during a walk.

The first time your cat experiences the cat leash, he will probably fall to the ground seemingly under the unbearable weight of the leash. Don't let this fool you, the leash is not hurting your cat, your cat is simply being dramatic. It may take a little time for your cat to adjust to the feeling of the leash, so it might be a good idea to put the cat leash on your cat while you're in the house so it can acclimate itself. Once your cat begins to walk normally, it's time to head outside.

Don't expect the first walk to go very far. Most cats will experience a sensory overload the first time out on the leash. It is best to just pick a spot where your cat can sniff around and not try to make your cat walk in a specific path. Forcing your cat to walk along a sidewalk while on a cat leash for the first time will only result in you dragging your cat. Let your cat lead. Once it becomes familiar with the scents and sounds of the outdoors it will begin to walk around.

One important thing to remember when using a cat leash is to never leave your pet unattended outside unattended. It may seem like a good idea to tie the cat leash to a fence so that the cat can experience the outdoors while you find something else to do, but this can be very dangerous. Cats are small and may become entangled in the leash. If they are unable to free themselves they may end up choking themselves to death or cutting off circulation to a limb.

The Truth About Pet Foods An informative story of the pet food industry and what to look for when choosing a pet food.

Finding The Perfect Pet Friendly Accommodation

By Samuell Armstrong

As more people choose to take pets along on family holidays, the need to find accommodation that is pet friendly is increasing. Here are some ways to locate information about holiday rental properties that welcome pets.

Pet Friendly Property Features
One of the most popular means of finding pet friendly resorts and accommodations is to conduct searches on the Internet. This will allow you to look at the specific types of amenities offered by each pet friendly accommodation, and determine if they would be a good fit for both your family and your pet.

Check the property has pet friendly features:
1. Wooden floors are easy to keep clean
2. Fenced areas (particularly for outdoor pets especially dogs)
3. Bath for washing your pet
4. Space from nearby properties to avoid your pet disrupting neighbours

Local Amenities for Pets
Check the local amenities for pets. Some examples of amenities to look for include, walking parks, pet sitting services, pet grooming salons in or near the accommodation, and veterinarians who are available in the event of an emergency. In many cases, these sorts of amenities will be highlighted on business web sites, so finding options for long term stays that welcome pets is somewhat easy.

Other information for holidaying with Pets
Another option is to contact hospitality associations within the city or town that you plan on visiting for your holiday. This may involve local business associations, or the local municipal government. Often, these resources can offer contact information on rental accommodations that welcome household pets and also have reasonable rates. If you are in doubt its best to email and obtain exact information about what is available or required when taking pet friendly accommodation. This approach also allows you to begin the process of building rapport with the property manager before you ever arrive for your holiday.

Bond or Additional Costs
Be prepared to pay a 'doggy bond' as most property managers will require bonds in pet friendly accommodation to protect against damage. Additional costs for de-odourising might also be imposed to remove smells and fleas, so the property is clean for the next visitor.

There are a large range of pet friendly properties and you'll have a lot more fun when you take your beloved pet away on holidays. Enjoy your vacation, woof!

Rent-A-Home.com.au lists a wide range of Accommodation including Holiday Rentals, Holiday Apartments, Holiday Homes and Serviced Apartments for short stay or long stay in Australia. For more information on Pet Friendly Accommodation, visit http://www.rent-a-home.com.au/theme/Pet-Friendly-Accommodation.htm To view accommodation, availability, and make bookings online, visit http://www.rent-a-home.com.au

Pet Eye Care

Depending on the type of animal you own, pet eye care could either be an everyday maintenance issue or a complete non-issue unless illness strikes. Even when an eye illness does occur, the consequences are rarely serious unless the illness goes untreated. If you've got questions about eye care for your pets, hopefully the following will give you some answers.

We'll start with the smallest first-fish, and the common misconception that fish are unlikely to suffer from eye problems. In fact, eye problems are rather common in fish, and can be difficult to treat, given we can't lay a fish on the exam table and have a vet take a look! A very common cause of fish eye problems is injury caused by running into the sharp edges of tank décor. In the instances of eye injury and resulting infection, the fish's eye may appear cloudy or distended. The best thing you can do for a fish with an injured eye is quarantine it in a smaller tank to keep the other fish from picking at it while it heals. An injured fish is free game to other fish in the tank, and the stress of being chased and nipped at will only prolong your injured fish's healing process. To prevent or heal infection, special aquarium antibiotics can be added to the water of your fish's recuperation tank.

When it comes to pet eye care for mammals, eye problems are far easier to treat, but in order to prevent permanent damage, must be caught early. For hamsters, mice, and other cage-dwelling rodents, the most common eye issues are infections arising from soiled or dusty bedding. These infections can either originate directly in the eyes or can be a symptom of a larger infection, such as a respiratory infection. A rodent with an eye infection will often have one or both eyes sealed shut with a crusty matter. Your vet will be able to give you an ointment to apply once or twice a day and will instruct you to very gently unseal the eyes with a warm, damp washcloth or Q-tip. Even after the infection seems to have cleared, continue using the ointment for another week afterwards, as eye infections often relapse, returning stronger than ever.

Awareness of proper dog eye care and cat eye care is crucial as eye infections in cats and dogs are very common--more so in cats and then, more common in kittens. Oftentimes, the infection is little more than the pet version of pinkeye, and will require daily applications of ointment and cleaning. A prolonged or untreated eye infection will inevitably result in scarring of the eye, blindness, and in extreme cases, surgical removal of the entire eyeball. Eye infections are highly communicable between cats and dogs, so if one of your cats or dogs has an infection, be sure to wash your hands immediately after treating the infected animal, and try to keep your pets from rubbing against one another or grooming each other until the infection has cleared up.

Preventative pet eye care for cats, dogs, and smaller mammals involves making sure that your pet's living space is kept clean and free of dust, mold, and other debris. Don't allow your dog to play with sharp sticks, and check your rodent cages for protruding wires. Be aware of the common eye problems that can plague certain breeds of dogs. For instance, pugs are notorious for having their eyeballs bulge to the point that they can pop out of the dog's skull. While this may look absolutely horrendous, a cool head and an immediate trip to the vet can save the eye, and in many instances, the dog's sight. Other breeds, such as poodles, schnauzers, and other long-haired or wire-haired dogs are prone to blockages of the tear ducts caused by matted fur around the eyes. This can lead to infection, an unpleasant build-up, and blindness, if left untreated. Dogs with special grooming needs should have their eyes wiped once a day with either a warm, damp cloth or special wipes made specifically for your pet's eyes.

Regardless of the type of pet you own, successful pet eye care boils down to vigilance. Not only are eyes the window to the soul, they're also a strong indicator of your pet's overall health. Take time each day to look into your pet's eyes. If you notice that your pet's eyes seem dull, watery, crusty, red-rimmed, or bloodshot, contact your vet immediately for advice.

Article written by Barry Mcgee Puppy Training & Dog Training Online

 

Chihuahuas - The Celebrity Choice Dog

They've been spotted everywhere-the streets of Hollywood, the beaches of Miami, and the hotels of New York and London. Have you noticed the global spurt of celebrities' fascination (or possibly obsession?) with Chihuahuas? At first it was thought to simply be a phase; either it's a short, or the Chihuahuadom in Hollywood has begun for the long haul.

Who owns these dogs? The list is endless, but here are some of the celebrity biggies: Paris Hilton's Chihuahua, Tinkerbell; Britney Spear's Bit Bit and Lucky; Hilary' Duff's Lola; Scarlett Johansson's Maggie; Sandra Bullock's Chihuahua mix Poppy; and Demi Moore's Yorkie-Chihuahua mix, Louie.

Why do Chihuahuas appeal to celebrities? First, Chihuahuas are normally 6-9 inches in height and 2-6 lbs in weight. This equals a teeny tiny full grown pup. Because celebrities are always on the move, they have a perfectly portable pet in a Chihuahua-they can easily be taken nearly anywhere; the spa, the film set, a private airplane, a shopping spree, a sporting event...you name it. Also, celebrities seem to love buying accessories and items for their precious pooches: carrying bags, jeweled (yes, jeweled) personal collars, doggie sweaters and outfits, custom made leashes, etc. Celebrities have money to spend; why not diffuse cash on their puppy companion?

These dogs have not only grown in popularity because they are owned by celebrities; they now stand on their own four feet. Consider Paris Hilton's Tinkerbell, who seemed to have been the groundbreaking pup which was first in the Chihuahua trend. Tinkerbell even has her own doggie diary, titled, The Tinkerbell Hilton Diaries: My Life Tailing Paris Hilton, by Tinkerbell Hilton. A doggie author? This book is 112 pages full of Tinkerbell's first-person (or is it first-canine?) thoughts as she trails Paris around the world.

Are these celebrity pooches only as popular as their owners, or can they exceed the fame of their mommies? Britney Spear's pup, Bit Bit, is only popular because of the struggle between Britney and Kevin; Kevin thought the Britney's Bit Bit might be harmful to their children. Britney agreed to get rid of Lucky after she snapped at Kevin one day in May, but Bit Bit remained. Are Chihuahuas aggressive pups?

Chihuahua's are known for their extreme loyalty to their owners. They are loving pets who demand attention from their owners, yet they freely give it as well. They are wary of dogs other than Chihuahuas, primarily because they are tiny and sometimes are easily scared. If a Chihuahua is well-socialized, they are happy to be dotted upon and passed around from person to person. They are not recommended for children because Chihuahuas are naturally nervous and edgy dogs, and the teasing actions of a child may cause them to become afraid and nip with their sharp teeth. Chihuahuas are energetic, dotting, and saucy pets; they know what they want, and they plan to get it. Compare their temperament to that of a celebrity; there seem to be a few similarities. Is the primary appeal to a celebrity of owning a Chihuahua because they can keep up with the fast and famous lifestyle? Quite possibly.

Melissa Turner writes article about various pet related topics. Her articles and information can be seen on sites such as: Dog-Bed.org, LVE Productions and Dog Training Methods.

Dog Skin Problems And Allergies

By Janie Knetzer

Take Notice Of Your Dog's Skin Problems

It is beneath their beautiful fur coats that a world of uncomfortable and even painful skin conditions are often lurking. Dogs skin problems can be an indication of a more serious and even life threatening condition.

Some of the most common dog skin problems are dry skin, usually indicated by the appearance of "dandruff" or excessive shedding, various fungus infections, mite irritations, mange, and rashes that may be the result of seasonal, environmental or food allergies. Other dog skin problems include tumors, seborrhea skin diseases, melanomas and infected sores.

The fact is that many of these conditions are completely treatable and often preventable. Identifying the cause and preventing unnecessary dog skin problems is a responsibility that comes with the role of owning a dog. However, as a loving pet guardian, adequate care and treatment of an animal is a legal requirement.

Food And Seasonal Dog Allergies

Some of the most preventable dog skin problems are caused by dog allergies. Dog allergies may be the result of seasonal conditions, environmental factors or symptoms of food allergies. Many dog owners are surprised to learn that food allergies are not always related to a new food or diet. A dog may develop intolerance to foods that they have been eating for years.

It is not an unusual occurrence for a dog to develop a food allergy when their immunity system may be compromised. Adding a digestive enzyme to a dog's daily diet of a premium all natural food is many times all that is needed to heal the skin. Dog food allergies are often an intolerance to unnatural additives and preservatives.

Seasonal dog allergies can include parasite allergies. Fleas for example are uncomfortable enough for a dog, but some dogs are particularly sensitive to flea bites. Although, fleas may be present at any time of year, it's the hot dry conditions of summer when they are the worst. Other possible seasonal allergy irritants are spring pollens and dust mites. Rural dogs are at risk of developing further seasonal allergies where crop dusting occurs, or when other such chemicals are used around the farm or surrounding properties.

If your dog is uncomfortable and excessively chewing and biting his legs or rear end, scratching himself sore, or shows any signs or symptoms at all of a bothersome skin condition, please seek the advice of a veterinarian right away.

Prevention is better than cure; the best premium all natural diet is the first weapon against dog skin problems and dog allergies. Dog owners should routinely check their dog's skin and feel for any lumps, bumps or other skin conditions.

A Pittsburgh area resident with over 25 years of dog care experience. Janie is an avid dog lover and has written numerous articles on dog skin, nutrition and care. Visit http://www.old-dog-treats-and-rawhide.com Find more information on dog skin conditions and care, visit http://www.old-dog-treats-and-rawhide.com Article Source: EzineArticles.com

Royal Accessories for your Dog

By Gabriel J. Adams

Dogs are definitely man's best friend. It is very easy to see this today, because of the fabulous lives they lead. Who would not want to lie around all day, get scratched behind the ears, and eat all of the good food that humans get to eat on a daily basis? Not only do they get all of these wonderful things, but they also do not have to go to work, cook dinner, or clean the house. I would give anything to be a dog. If this was not bad enough, while visiting the mall I saw that dogs have quite a few accessories available to make their lives even better.

The only accessory that a dog had when I was growing up was a collar, if they were lucky. These collars were nothing fancy, usually just a piece of leather with a buckle on it to allow you to adjust it as the dog grew larger. Now I see collars in every shape, size, and color, and with all different kinds of decorations on them. I have seen collars with the dog's name on them, collars with gemstones on them, and even collars that will play a song when the dog scratches them. These collars are ridiculous, but they are not even the most outrageous extravagance that has been created for dogs lately.

Now a dog has the luxury of sleeping in a nice and soft bed. When I was a child our dog slept on our cold, hard tile, and she liked it just fine. Our dog now has a big fluffy denim bed that is more comfortable than the bed I sleep on. Dogs also have many different types of clothes for them to wear. My dog wears a sweater and actually has a jacket that she wears in the winter so she does not get cold. Whatever happened to dogs growing their winter coat so that they would not get cold? The warm clothes are bad enough, but now dogs have dresses, Halloween costumes, and even feather boas. What is this world coming to? I am not sure, but as long as my wife and others like her are shopping for dog accessories, I am sure that manufacturers will not stop making them! Now if I could just get her to buy ME such nice luxuries...

Visit http://www.hotdiggidydog.co.uk and treat your pet like royalty with our selection of dog collars, dog beds, dog clothes, cat beds and more!

Moving Home With Your Cat

Moving home is a stressful time for everyone including your cat. Just imagine how frightened you would be, when your whole world slowly disappears into boxes and then you suddenly find yourself in a strange place, with strange smells and you have no idea why. Well this must be how a cat feels when their owners move home.

Planning ahead and making the move of your cat a safe and thought out process will not only reduce the stress for your cat but will ensure that you are not left worrying about losing your pet on moving day. Forward planning is even more essential when you are emigrating, as there are many essential documents, which need obtaining, and government bodies that need to be informed of the transportation of your cat. Not to mention time restricted vaccinations required by some countries.

For a normal house move there are two options open to you on the day of moving for your cat. Either to have your cat stay at a cattery for a few days while the move takes place or to take the cat with you on the day. By placing your cat in a cattery you will eliminate any worries on the day of looking after your cat and making sure they are safe and cared for. However, you will have to consider the costs involved including any vaccinations required by the cattery and how you will get your cat back from the cattery if this is some distance away from the new home.

Taking the cat with you on the day is the cheaper option but does require you to be aware of your cats needs during the day and how you will keep your cat safe while the move is happening. On top of this it is important that you make the whole experience as stress free for your cat as possible. The last thing you will need on the day is a scared cat leaving little deposits everywhere.

A few days before the move try to get your cat used to the carrier you will be using to move them in. To do this place the carrier in an empty room with a litter tray and keep your cat in this room. This will also enable your cat to become used to being confined to a room on the moving day.

On the morning of the moving day feed your cat early in the morning a small meal. This will mean that it is less likely that the cat will be sick during the journey. Make sure you leave placing your cat into the carrier until you are ready to vacate the house and put some of their favourite toys in the carrier with them as a comfort to them.

When you arrive at the new home place the cat in a small room with all it's belongs, including a litter tray and something that smells of you. This is important, as it is likely that you will not be around for them for quite some time while you get the house straight. It will be far less stressful for your cat if they are surrounded my familiar things and smells.

During the first few days in the new home only allow your cat to explore small areas of the house at a time, as it can sometimes be overwhelming to have a very large place to explore all at once. Ensure that they do not have access to the outside world for at least three weeks. This gives your cat time to associate the new house as their territory and will reduce the risk of your cat trying to find their way back home. It is also very important that when you do finally let them out that they are wearing a name and address collar and if at all possible are microchipped, just in case.

If you are emigrating with your cat, these are the key things that need to be carried out to ensure a smooth transition to a new country and to avoid any excess stress to both you and your cat.

Find an airline, which are happy to transport your pet and find out their procedures and requirements. Also ask them what paperwork is required at the destination as any discrepancies could result in your pet being refused entry to the country.

Contact your local vet and inquire about any vaccinations that may need to be given for the particular country you are moving too. It is best to do this at least six weeks before the actual move, as some countries require vaccinations to be given during a certain time frame.

Obtain an export licence from your countries government department dealing with animals. Again this should be done at least six weeks before the day of moving.

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. Copyright 2007 Kate Tilmouth

Pomeranian Dogs - One Of The Most Popular Lap Dogs

By Lee Dobbins

Pomeranian dogs originally come from the Prussian Region of Pomerania and the ancestors of those tiny toy dogs that we see today once weighed up to 30 pounds! Queen Victoria was a fancier of this breed which made these dogs very popular in England during the late 1800's. Today this breed is still very popular both as a loving companion and show dog.

A member of the AKC Toy Group, the Pomeranian was recognized in 1888 and gained it's regular classification in 1900. The breed standard is seven to 12 inches tall and 3 - 7 pounds in weight. The Pomeranians life span is typically 15 years if they are well cared for.

The Pomeranian is a fluffy dog with pointed ears and a wedge shaped head. They all have a bright dark almond shaped eye which gives them an intelligent expression and their noses are either dark or the color of their coats and their teeth should meet in a scissors bite. Their fluffy tail curls over the back. The chest and neck of the Pomeranian should have an abundant ruff. Most Pomeranians have a solid coat, but parti colored is also allowed in the breed. Allowed colors for the Breed are Black, brown, blue, cream, white, orange and red.

A very loyal breed, Pomeranian dogs are intelligent and also eager to learn. When trained with a kind but firm hand, Pomeranians are quick to learn and obedient pets.

The Pomeranian has a docile demeanor making it a great show dog and companion. This breed is one of the most independent of the Toy breeds and has an alert and curious personality. They are perfect for apartments since they do not need a yard.

Like many other pure bred dogs, Poms can be prone to health problems and some may be prone to slipped stifle, dislocated patella (knee cap), heart and skin problems as well as eye infections. They can also lose their teeth at an early age so be sure to provide them with good dental cleanings.

The Pomeranian dogs very long double coat which sheds often should be brushed often and you should start at the head parting the coat and brushing it forward as you go. The fluffy, cottony undercoat of the Pom is shed once or twice a year. It is important that the Pomeranians eyes and ears are cleaned on a regular basis.

For more on a variety of dog breeds including pomeranian dogs, please visit http://www.dogbreeds123.com where you will get breed information and pictures of popular dog breeds.

 

Winterize Your Dog This Christmas

If you live in a colder climate in winter there are ways to ensure your pet is healthy and comfortably out of danger during the winter.

Although most dogs will grow a winter coat, it is still hard to understand why some people keep their dogs outdoors all night in the freezing weather of winter. If your dog is out in the cold for long periods of time, especially if the temperatures are below zero it can surely freeze your dog to death.

The belief that dogs can exist outdoors all night as long as they are in a dog house is not true or healthy. This would kill most dogs even as winter temperatures might appear to be getting warmer due to global warming. It does not take long for a cold snap to set in over nite and result in sub zero temperatures.

Frostbite can result when spending too much time outside on a cold night or a long walk in sub-zero temperatures. There are dog coats for this type of cold weather and its well worth the effort to put them on before venturing out into the cold weather for your dog's comfort and protection. Dogs and pets in general must be kept dry and away from drafty areas as well as the dampness or rain.

Groom your dog regularly and especially after walks in the winter as snow can accumulate between a dog's toes which makes walking difficult and sometimes painful. Dry and wash your dog's four paws after each walk, and watch for cracked pads on the bottom, put some grape seed oil or olive oil on their feet to protect them from cracking and sores. After a walk remove the snow and ice between toes and wash the paws of any salt or other chemicals used to melt icy roads. These chemical additives used to melt ice on winter roads these days, not only includes salt but other chemicals and dirt which can harm the paws.

Your dog's appetite will increase in the colder weather especially if it spends a lot of time outdoors. Serve your pet's meals warm, and loading some extra calories will keep them warm outside for daily walks.

Pet owners must be aware when playing near frozen rivers, streams, lakes, or canal where ice can be thin especially with warmer weather during the day. While ice appears to be solid, it sometimes is very thin and cannot hold the weight of a larger dog or a small child.

Do not leave your dog alone in the car, even with the engine on or off. It is preferable to leave your dog at home when very cold, that to freeze the dog in the car for hours while you shop, unless some one is in the car with the dog.

Poisonous Objects and House Christmas Plants:

Poinsettias, and Holly can be poisonous to dogs or cats. Keep these plants on high tables where pets cannot get to the leaves of the plant.

Tinsel is dangerous if swallowed, it's basically plastic with aluminum colored paint which more than likely contains lead. Avoid using glass ornaments on the trees where the dog can knock them down and eat them.

Keep chocolates out of reach of the dog, and sugar items such as cookies or cakes, on the coffee table...where they are accessible by your dog.

Holiday times are stressful for everyone including your dog...when you have a houseful of guests dogs may become anxious, stressed out. Make sure the dog has plenty of fresh water, as the dry heat indoors and low humidity in the winter can dehydrate your dog. Allow for some quite time in a room where they can be alone, or a walk outside for a break from the hustle and bustle of the visitors.

Trees, whether artificial or real pose a threat if the dog chokes on the needles. or tries to eat the tree. Usually they are attracted by the lights and glimmer of a decorated tree and will eat the ornaments. Commercial ornaments contain harmful paints and colors and can break into small pieces of plastic and glass that if swallowed can cost you to get out of your dog's throat after a trip to the Veterinarian.

Review your dog's stocking or treats, and make sure you do not get bacteria laden pig's ears or harmful treats, by buying organic treats or healthy biscuits with parsley for instance that helps eliminate bad breathe. Do not chose rawhide bones for dogs as they break off and can choke a dog instantly.

Use common sense and these guidelines to keep your dog healthy during the Christmas Holidays and for the New Year.

Teri Salvador is a freelance writer with a site primarily on dog health issues that offers frequently updated articles on natural remedies, pet product reviews and current articles on pet foods. You will read it first on DogHealth1.com even before CNN gets around to covering the story. Visit: http://www.DogHealth1.com

Quick Pet Guinea Pig Care Guide! Simple Tips For A Healthy Cavy!

By Michael Porteous

Guinea pig's also known as Cavies are one of the gentlest, loving, clean and adorable pets you can care for. These timid creatures have grown in popularity over the last few years but not as much is known about pet guinea pig care as cats or dogs or fish which are more prominent. Luckily guinea pigs are not too difficult to look after, they are clean, do not smell like mice and do not bite like ferrets. Here are a few simple tips to care for your guinea pig!

Housing

It is best to keep your guinea pig in a decent size cage, four to six square feet of floor space for each guinea pig is good but slightly smaller will suffice. Make sure the floor is solid not wire cage like the walls however as this can hurt their feet, also guinea pigs cannot jump or climb very well also so you do not need a roof to their enclosure as long as it is about 18 inches high. Make sure your enclosure also has a place for your pet to hide in if it wants; in the wild it was defenseless against predators so when it feels threatened it needs a place to feel secure in.

Bedding

A bed of shredded newspaper or wood shavings is ideal for your guinea pig. Beware however of wood shavings with a lot of aroma such as some types of pine as this can cause some healthy issues. Make sure you change the bedding at least once a week.

Food

For good Guinea pig care you should have a large and steady supply of water as they tend to drink a lot. Water in a dish is fine but can often get messy as bits of bedding may get into it and they might tip it accidentally and wet themselves and their cage. Most experts recommend a feeding tube attached to a bottle, these can be purchased at most pet stores and have a device that stops the water leaking out so the guinea pig can drink without making a mess. Guinea pigs are also very susceptible to a lack of vitamin C and while their food pellets are infused with the vitamin older tablets lose their potency. You can add Vitamin C supplements to the drinking water however to keep their supply up. While guinea pig pellets should be the main part of your pet's diet you can also feed them other fresher food like turnips, spinach, hay and kale. Do not however feed your pig fruits and sweets as this upsets their digestive system.

Diseases

A sick guinea pig will suffer from hair loss and crusty or inflamed eyes, nose and ears. These symptoms are caused often by a lack of vitamin C but also from diseases they can pick up from guinea pig colonies at pet stores, while the usual cure for diseases like these is anti-biotics, guinea pigs are known to react very badly to such treatment. Other things to check are flaky skin and ticks and fleas, when purchasing your guinea pig make sure you check for all these things so you choose a healthy pig that can live up to 8 years if cared for well!

Physical care

Long haired varieties of guinea pigs need regular brushing, combs used for Persian cats are good for this. Make sure your long haired pig is free from items getting caught up in their hair, this breed needs much more attention. You should also clip the nails of your pig once a month, a normal nail clipper is good for this. A Guinea pigs teeth are also always growing and they need something wooden in their pen for them to chew on so they do not overgrow.

You should now know the basics of good pet guinea pig care and will have a happy healthy little pet that will delight you for many years to come!

Do you need a comprehensive guide to guinea pig care to keep your little friend happy and healthy? The Comprehensive Cavy Guide is a wonderful e-book with great life saving tips for your cavy, a brilliant breeding guide and many tips to help you understand your guinea pig better! This e-book comes with many free bonus e-books for a limited time only! Do you owe it to your little buddy to keep him safe and well cared for? If so click here! http://smallandnfurry.blogspot.com/2007/10/comprehensive-cavy-guide.html

 

Rimadyl, Your Dog, and Arthritis

By Beverly Maniago

It is the dream of most dog owners to see their old dogs suffering from arthritis leap over fallen trees, jump high for a Frisbee or run like the wind like the dogs in TV commercials.

A Pfizer survey indicated that about one-fifth of dog owners are willing to be extravagant when it comes to their dog's health because over fifty percent have expressed that dogs have become their own unique companion. It is no wonder that carprofen, an anti-inflammatory drug also known as Rimadyl, became a popular remedy for arthritis in dogs. Launched in 1997, despite clinical trials that resulted in one-fifth of test subjects (dogs) exhibiting unusual and negative liver functions, Rimadyl got an FDA approval. Soon, the story of the miraculous drug was pouring over airwaves and TV commercials. Even veterinarians were amazed with what Rimadyl could do and even administered the drug to their own dogs.

However, dog owners soon became weary of Rimadyl when complaints about the drug's side effects arose during Rimadyls' launch year. A dog suffering from arthritis that showed unbelievable signs of progress was reported to suffer a series of vomiting and eventually died. Various complaints about the drug's negative side effects such as vomiting and diarrhea soon took place tainting Rimadyls' reputation as a miracle cure. Pfizer was even issued an ultimatum to input a warning to dog owners and veterinarians in the drug's labels about the fatal side effects of Rimadyl.

As the favor for Rimadyl declined, dog owners and vets seek an alternative therapy to canine arthritis. The usual remedy that most dog owners and uninformed vets resort to is to give their dogs NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) that work much like aspirin in people with headaches. However, knowledgeable dog owners and vets would know that a safer arthritis therapy exists and is fast becoming popular: glucosamine. Nowadays, dog owners have renewed hope of fulfilling their dream of seeing their dogs behave the way they do in TV commercial ads with dietary glucosamine supplements. Dietary glucosamine supplements such as Syn-flex for Pets allows assistance in the rehabilitation of your dog's joints thereby combating the effects of arthritis. Unlike Rimadyl, its benefits last long-term. Syn-flex Liquid Glucosamine for Pets combines anti-inflammatory ingredients with glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate, ingredients that enable assist the repair and re-growth of damaged cartilage. If you want to see a faster improvement in your dog's condition, try Syn-flex Liquid Glucosamine for Pets. Synflex is very effective and efficient as it is 90 to 95% absorbed by the body.

Unlike other dietary glucosamine brands, Synflex is able to treat different kinds of pet arthritis such as osteoarthritis, hip, elbow, and knee dysplasia, degenerative joint disease, and others. Moreover, you will notice a significant change in your dog's behavior in as quickly as 10 to 15 days. No more limping, skulking around a corner of the house, and moaning from your dog. How is this possible? Glucosamine, when combined with the right ingredients, not only eases the pain of arthritis but also assists in building healthier cartilage in joints. This is the secret of Synflex that makes it better than other glucosamine brands. You can read more about this terrific product at www.syn-flex-usa.com, my personal distributor.

http://www.syn-flex-usa.com/

Perfect Litter for Cats - Free Cat Litter

By Darren Davis

Cat Litter is a necessity for many cat owners and the average cat owner will spend more than one thousand dollars every year on purchasing cat litter. Cat litter (often called kitty litter) is one of the materials used in litter boxes to absorb moisture from cats.

However, what is unknown to many cat owners, their cat litter could have damaging health effects for their pet. For example, many cat litter manufactures use clay to make their litter which traps smells but can create mess around the house.

There are many types of cat litter. The main types are clay, sand, clumping litter, crystal and wheat. Each one has it's own distinct advantages and disadvantages. Some of these are:

Sand or dirt: cheap, easy and quickly available. BUT it does not absorb oder and it tracks easily.

Basic Cat litter: Inexpensive. Less likely to be tracked through the house. BUT lots of cleaning and the box can smell. Dusty.

Clumping litter: Easy to clean, less oder. BUT cats can track it through the house easier. Dusty. Maybe harmful if ingested.

Crystal litter: Easy to clean. Low smell. No dust BUT maybe harmful if swallowed. Crystals roll everywhere. Cats may not like walking on it.

Wheat Litter: Much like clumping litter but more environmentally sound and safer if ingested. BUT there is more cat oder. Tends to expensive. Dusty.

When choosing cat litter, it is important to purchase one made from safe materials that cannot be ingested by cats and also have the ability to neutralize bad odours quickly. The cat litter should also clump for easy disposal.

To Find Out More About The Perfect Litter for Cats, Please Visit Free Cat Litter

 

Snakes as Pets

By Tonia Jordan

Snakes can make fascinating and entertaining pets, but they're not quite the ideal pet for everyone. They require special care and requirements, and should only be kept by those willing to commit to their care.

Choosing the type of snake is your first step. Some snakes are more dangerous than others, and the types of snakes range from common, harmless garter snakes to large and dangerous pythons.

It's important to research types of snakes before making a decision. Take into consideration its special needs and requirements, as well as the danger in handling the type of snake.

Regardless of the type of snake, you will need to house it in a secure enclosure with no gaps or open areas through which the snake can escape. A glass structure, like a large fish tank may be ideal. Just be sure the lid is firmly secured and not able to be lifted easily from the inside.

Snakes do not eat vegetation, but must feed on prey. The most common food for snakes (though it does depend on the type) is mice or rats. It is actually preferable to have the prey pre-killed in order to prevent injury to the snake. A live rodent can harm a snake, so pre-killing is recommended. It may be convenient to keep a supply of frozen food for your pet snake.

Speak with the pet store or pet dealer/breeder before purchasing a snake. If possible, the snake should have been bred in captivity. Snakes caught from the wild tend to be less tame and more prone to disease. Also, snakes caught from the wild will generally be more difficult to feed in captivity.

For new snake owners, or those who may be inexperienced with snakes, choosing the right type of snake is key. Corn snakes, king snakes or ball snakes are the best choice for new owners, as they tend to be more gentle, and their needs are not as difficult as some of the other species of snake. They are also relatively smaller than other types of snake, ranging from four to five feet in length as adults.

The life-span of snakes, especially the easier care species listed in the paragraph above, range from twenty to forty years. Snakes are not a low-maintenance pet. They require a good deal of special care, and their long life span requires an additional commitment to long term care.

As with any pet, the decision to own a pet snake should not be taken lightly. Careful research and evaluation of your commitment to taking care of the pet should be done. Snakes can make very rewarding and entertaining pets. Just be sure you're up to the challenge.

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

Stop Your Cats Fighting: the Towel Method

By Eric Hartwell

There could be a valid reason why one, or more, of your cats fight in the home, although determining any of these can be difficult for the owners concerned.

A possible reason could be that one of your cats may have a funny or odd "smell". It is natural for all of us to have a particular smell or odour. Cats, and other animals, are no different in that respect. Your fighting cat may not recognise, or accept, the smell of the newer cat and may see this as a sign of rivalry or a threat.

As cats are naturally territorial (but also inquisitive!) an odd smell can have the effect of the first cat becoming aggressive and defensive. Luckily, with time, cats often accept their "intruders" and many cats can become close and friendly if they live in the same home environment.

Some owners have advocated a novel way of clearing up the "smell" issue. The owner should get a clean towel and rub it over the newer cat. Then, the same towel should be used to rub over the older, established, cat. The idea is that both of them will smell very much the same and they will come to accept the smell as part of either them or the home itself.

It is not inevitable that cats fight and many owners have witnessed the introduction of alien cats without any problem whatsoever. Much can depend on the individual personality of the cat(s) as much as anything else. Indeed, I have had a cat which took to any foreign cat it ever met.

Persevering with the issue can pay dividends. Using the towel method to coat each cat in th same odour, if it works, will lead to a lessened need for this process as time goes by and ultimately the practice can be stopped altogether.

If you found this article interesting you can find more help and advice here

The Goldfish Versus The Beta

By Tonia Jordan

Both the goldfish and the beta are popular choices for pets, and both are believed to be a low maintenance pet. So, which makes the better pet?

The goldfish is the most common pet in the world. It requires a tank, but never a just a small goldfish bowl or small container. Like all other fish, it requires oxygen, and the goldfish gathers oxygen from the surface of its home. Surface area is the important thing in providing enough oxygen for your goldfish.

Measure surface area by multiplying a tank's length by its depth. For every inch of fish, you should have at least 30 square inches of surface area, and also take into consideration the fact that you're fish will grow. Make sure to have plenty of room and surface area for your pet goldfish.

Goldfish commonly live at least ten years if cared for properly. They are omnivorous and will eat almost anything. It is recommended to stick with prepackaged fish foods, though. Feed the goldfish no more than it will eat in a few minutes. Leftovers pollute the tank, so it should be removed after feeding. Feed the fish several times per day instead of one big meal.

The ideal water temperature for a goldfish is anywhere from 50 degrees to 68 degrees Fahrenheit, so generally water at room temperature is fine. Tap water is also fine for goldfish, but be sure to let it sit over night so that the chlorine evaporates from it.

In summary, goldfish will be fine in a large, filterless tank with room temperature, de-chlorinated tap water.

Betas are a very common fish kept as pets. The males are the more colorful ones, but never place more than one male in one tank. Betas are also referred to as "Siamese Fighting Fish," and males will fight one another if kept in the same tank.

The lifespan of the beta is only two to three years, and as they are originally from a tropical climate, Betas need warmer water, preferably in the 80s. They will become listless when water temperature falls below 75 degrees Fahrenheit. The water should also be neutral to slightly acidic pH, so be sure to check the pH regularly, and treat the water as needed.

Just like goldfish, Betas require plenty of surface area for oxygen. They have special respiration systems that require them to get oxygen from the surface, so be sure to house them in a large tank.

To sum up, Betas require special attention to their water. They're okay in a filterless tank, but the water may need to be heated and treated for pH.

Bottom line - Both fish do not need filters for their tanks, though they do require plenty of surface area for oxygen. Goldfish are generally less maintenance as they require only room temperature, de-chlorinated tap water. Betas require additional heating in most cases, and may also require regular treatments of the water for the required pH level.

Overall, goldfish are the hardier, lower maintenance pet that live a lot longer.

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

 

4 Things You Should Know About Raising Beef Cows

If you're a farmer, or you just have a little land and would like to raise some animals, you might want to try your hand at raising some beef cows. That's right, you can grow a hamburger right in your backyard!

But before you roll up your sleeves and run out and by a whole passel of cattle, there are a few things you should consider first.

#1: Cows Need Room

Yep, you read that right. You can't raise beef cows in a barn - they need room to graze. To be exact, a cow needs about two acres of good pasture. In some areas, such as out west where the pasture is really more like dessert, a cow will need as much as 40 acres. So the first thing you should consider is how many cows you can have based on the amount of land you have. If you get too many cows on your land, you'll have to buy hay for them even during the summertime.

#2: Winter Food

During the spring and summer, cows can get all the food they need from good pasture. Winter is an entirely different story, though. You'll need hay to feed your cows during the winter. You can either grow it yourself, or buy it. If you buy it yourself, you're likely to pay more for it, and you may also have troubles getting enough during lean years. If you just have a few cows, though, it may not be worth it to grow it yourself.

Alfalfa hay is the best hay you can get or grow. As a matter of fact, alfalfa hay is the standard by which all other hay's are compared.

#3: Water

Cows do need to drink, too! On average, you can figure to a lot 12 gallons per cow per day. If you don't have a pond or creek they can drink from, you'll need to provide them with a trough or tub to drink from. It's well worth it to install an automatic, heated watering device. That's much easier than trying to thaw out a frozen water trough.

#4: You need to fatten them up

In most cases, you can't just raise a cow, then sell or slaughter it. You'll need to fatten it up, using top quality hay and grain, such as corn. You may also want to supplement the feed with salt, minerals, molasses, and feed supplement.

All in all, raising beef cows can be an exciting, rewarding venture. Well worth a go!

Gabriel Adams would like for you to visit these sites: Gary Magness Gary Magness Article

 

Dog Training Guide on Debarking Surgery

By David Peters

One of the most controversial subjects in the field of dog training is the question of debarking surgery. Debarking surgery is a procedure designed to minimize the volume of a dog's bark. It is generally used by those with dogs who have both a loud bark and a tendency to bark incessantly. The procedure is most commonly used on very loud larger dog breeds. Shetlands and collies, for instance, make up a large percentage of those dogs subjected to the surgery.The procedure generally requires the use of a general anesthesia and involves punching, cutting or otherwise manipulating the tissue around a dog's vocal chords to soften or significantly reduce his ability to bark. Access the areas targeted during the surgery can come either through the dog's mouth or via an incision on the dog's neck.

Debarking does not, usually, complete eliminate dog's bark. The volume of the bark is decreased substantially by the surgery, but most dogs will still have some bit of "bark" left subsequent to surgery. It is sometimes referred to a bark softening for this reason.

Not surprisingly, debarking is a very contentious issue, with experts having lined up on each side of the argument. Some advocate debarking as a helpful last-resort for incessant barkers while others maintain the process is cruel and unnecessary.

The Debarking Advocates

Those who support the continued use of debarking procedures argue that it is generally pursued only in egregious circumstances. Only dogs who have been resistant to alternative methods of reducing their excessive barking tend to be subject to the procedure. The surgery is reserved, the say, for problematic pets when no workable alternative exists and when the nature of the dog's bark makes them a legitimate nuisance-not merely an inconvenience.

They argue that the debarking surgery, if conducted by a properly trained veterinarian creates a more pleasant life for the dog. No longer subject to constant criticism and correction for his barking, the dog's quality of life is enhanced.

Some have even maintained that the debarking process saves dogs' lives. They state that dogs with constant barking issues are often abandoned by owners or given to shelters and eventually euthanised as result of a barking problem that can be surgically corrected. Proponents of debarking see the surgery as a form of behavior modification can be a great benefit to frustrated humans as well as the dogs themselves.

The Debarking Detractors

Those who oppose debarking operations often do so on the grounds of inhumanity. They object to the surgery on principle, noting the dog has no ability to consent to the action and that since it is not a health-related matter, the elimination of a dog's bark via surgery is simply moral wrong. There is no justification to expose the dog to the risk of surgery for the mere sake of convenience, they will argue.

Additionally, they note that the surgery does nothing to eliminate the underlying reasons for the dog's constant barking. The dog is likely to continue to "bark" albeit silently or at a lower volume because root causes of the unappreciated behavior are not addressed. This cuts against the potential benefits of the surgery as the real nature of the dog's life is not changed-they still suffer from the same issues as before. Post-surgery, however, they suffer in relative silence, which decreases the owner's impetus to explore what problems led to the errant behavior in the first place.

Those who reject the procedure also note the medical risk inherent in any major surgery and any procedure requiring use of a general anesthetic. This line of thought purports that the risks associated with the procedure outweigh the minor benefits that may it may possibly produce.

The question of whether or not a dog should be considered a prospect for a debarking procedure remains a highly personal one. There are many who would argue that, under the right circumstances, a dog and owner can both benefit from the procedure. There are just as many who reject the procedure out of hand as a wasteful act of inhumanity.

Debarking surgery remains a controversial and divisive issue within the dog community and it is not likely that a consensus will soon emerge either for or against the procedure. There are reasons to support the practice often seemingly solvent act debarking, yet many reasons to be distrustful of the procedure, its true efficacy and moral justifications.

Complete Pet Guide is committed to bringing you high quality resources and information on dog and cat pet care and training. For great articles, resource and tips try Complete Pet Guide Blog

Pond Aquarium Plants: More than Just Decoration

What is a pond with plants in it? Just another hole in the ground with water! Well, maybe it isn't that bad, but you will find that by adding plants to your outdoor pond you can greatly help not only with the visual aspects of the pond, but also help your fish breed better and the pond keep itself healthy for your fish. Let's take a look at how aquatic plants can help spruce up your outdoor pond.

* Different tropical fish like different types of aquatic plants. There are a large number which to choose from and it is important to pick types that your fish will enjoy and those that will help your pond. Most pet stores and tropical fish handbooks can give you an idea of what types of aquatic plants will work well in an outdoor environment. If your pond is large enough you may even want to consult with your local greenhouse which may have a selection of aquatic plants available.

* Aquatic plants serve many purposes in a pond. They not only provide a place for fish to hide, rest and breed, but they also help keep the Carbon Dioxide levels in the water regulated as well as help control algae production. Without aquatic plants you would need to use chemicals and other methods to control the environment.

* Freshwater ponds also benefit from having aquatic plants in them to control the environmental conditions of the water itself. Water lilies not only look beautiful, but they also provide a cool area for fish to hide out during particularly hot days. Many plants also attract bugs and other small insects to them which can provide a great secondary food resource for your tropical fish friends.

* If you are interested in trying to breed your fish, then adding some water-loving plants can also provide a habitat for your fish to breed and raise their young. Fish often lay eggs and want to do so in a place they think is safe. Plants provide the natural covering necessary to help in this process.

Finally, as with everything else in your pond, your aquatic plants will need periodic maintenance. Don't let them overtake the entire pond – some are nice, too many can be deadly to your fish. Also, as plants die out over the course of nature be sure to remove them so they don't add contamination to the pond as they decompose.

The Author, Graham Wardle, offers tips and advice about the hobby of keeping fish both indoors and outside at http://beta-tropical-and-pond-fish-news.blogspot.com and also at http://tropicalpondandfreshwaterfishnews.blogspot.com

 

How to Register a Service Dog or How to Scam the Disabled

By Norm Lanier

I'm often asked how you register or certify your service dog, the answer is "You Don't". Companies that claim to register or certify your animal without training are simply taking advantage of the handicapped to make a dollar. In 1990 the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) went into effect which gives handicapped persons with service animals legal protection to be accompanied by the animal in public places.

Understanding the ADA

So lets first define what a service animal is, According to the ADA, an animal is considered a service animal" if it has been "individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of a person with a disability." As you see, the word certify or registered doesn't appear in the law. As a matter fact the US government does not register, certify, license or approve any animal.

The ADA Catch 22

Because the definition of a disability is so broad it would be impossible for the government to create any sort of testing criteria other then the vague definition above. Also, since many disabled people live on fixed incomes requiring professional animal training would be an added financial burden that many disabled people could not afford. Unlike a person with a handicap license plate or ID, service dogs are often assumed to be pets. The ADA also states that a handicapped person is not required to show proof of their disability. So that's what the law says, but the reality is that having your service animal identified with an ID, vest, cape or bandana helps identify the dog as a working partner and not a pet.

The Registration Scam

It wasn't long after the ADA went into effect that companies started popping up offering to register or certify your animal. Now please understand that we are not talking about trainers that teach dogs to perform tasks for the disabled. What we are talking about are companies that use official sounding names that in exchange for your money will certify or register your service dog. In exchange they often provide you with a registration number, certificate, patch and maybe a cheap laminated tag. Some shameless companies charge as much as $250 for "registration".

So What's a Service Dog Owner to do?

First, make sure you meet the definition of a disabled person and that your dog is specially trained to perform tasks related to your disability. Trying to pass off your pet as a service animal is a federal offense and comes with severe penalties. Outside of the two requirements spelled out in the ADA you don't have to do anything. If you feel identifying your service dog will make your life easier then purchase a quality photo service dog tag, vest with patches or a cape.

Spot is the owner of www.ServiceDogTags.com and is a prolific writer on matters concerning service dogs and the disabled. Spot lets his owner help him put the web site together and write articles as it's hard as heck to type with paws. Besides it's good to throw his owner a bone every once in a while so he feels useful. (formerly DoggyDMV) makes personalized service dog tags. You can learn more about service dogs on our site http://www.ServiceDogTags.com

Feline Obesity and Your Cat's Health

Feline obesity creates serious health risks for your kitty friend. Carrying extra weight around overloads all his organ systems, which can lead to pain and disability, as well as an early death. There's nothing funny about a fat cat. And nearly half the felines in the United States are considered obese.

The most common problem associated with obesity in kitties is diabetes. If your buddy is overweight, he's two to four times more likely to develop this serious health problem. The incidence of this disease among our furry friends has doubled since 1990. Treatment can be quite involved and very expensive, requiring a large commitment of time and money from you. Preventing this deadly disease is much easier than treating it.

Obese cats are more apt to develop skin problems, These aren't caused by allergies, like many skin problems, but are a result of poor health. Dry skin is very common, along with feline acne. Another problem is that if your kitty is too fat to groom himself properly, he can develop large nasty sores on his bottom. These can be extremely painful for him, and can result in infections.

Your overweight buddy is also three to five times more likely to develop joint problems and arthritis. This is due to the stress his extra weight is putting on his joints, especially if he should jump down from a high place. Studies have shown that obese kitties produce abnormal cartilage, too, which can make him more prone to injuries.

If it's too painful for him to move around much, he'll get even less exercise. And regular exercise is necessary to keep his joints flexible. This is a vicious cycle that can be hard to break.

Besides using calories, exercise also provides the following health benefits:
* Tones his muscles
* Helps him to breath better
* Keeps his circulatory system healthy
* Moves oxygen to all cells in his body
* Helps his digestion
* Releases energy
* Keeps him from being bored and getting depressed

You can see that exercise is essential. Your kitty's health depends on him being able to move around. None of us were meant to sit around all the time, doing nothing!

Liver problems and obesity go hand in hand. The liver is the most important organ in his body. It stores fat, so if he's overweight, too much fat builds up in his liver, which can result in decreased liver function. And if he stops eating for 24 hours for any reason, this can develop into a life-threatening condition called hepatic lipidosis, or fatty liver disease. A kitty with this condition usually requires tube feeding to save his life.

Surgery can present many problems for a feline who's too heavy. There are several reasons why it takes an overweight kitty to come out of anesthesia after surgery. These drugs are taken up by the fat in his body, and the fatter he is, the longer it takes for his body to break them down. Plus many anesthetic drugs are broken down by his liver. A fatty liver is less efficient in removing these drugs.

The quality of your furball's life will suffer if he's carrying too much weight around. He may be irritable because he's hurting, or because he's uncomfortable. If you don't want him to face health problems and an early demise, you need to limit his food intake. Most cats are heavy simply because we're feeding them too much!

If your buddy is not obese, take steps now to prevent it from happening. If he already is, it's up to you to work with your vet to find a way to help your kitty lose weight. Your furry friend's life depends on you.

Darlene L. Norris has been owned by many kitties over the years. Now I've combined my love for cats and my life-long interest in herbs and healing at Your Cat Care Guide Information on natural remedies for cats can be hard to find. Stay up-to-date on the latest herbal and homeopathic treatments for your feline friends! You're feeding your cat a low-carb, high-protein diet, and making sure he's getting more exercise. Is there anything else you can do? Visit http://www.your-cat-care-guide.com/weight-management.html to learn about a natural remedy that's specially formulated to help your pet lose weight naturally by stimulating his metabolism and improving his his body's ability to eliminate fat.

What are the Best Toys and Treats for Your Dog?

Introduction

Keeping your dog entertained is important to his health and well being. Oh, and of course dogs love to play and play and play! Dog toys can help keep your dog fit, healthy and they can also be part of your dog's education when used with treats to help with training.

When Should I use Dog Treats?

Not all dog treats are created equal. While every dog enjoys treats you will find that your dog prefers some to others. With so many choices now on the market it's not a difficult task to find a dog treat that he prefers. Once you've found the ideal treat you can start to use it as a training tool. That doesn't preclude you giving him a treat because you love him but by treating your dog for good behavior you are re-enforcing positive actions which will become a habit for your dog.

What is the Best Type of Dog Treat?

There is a wide variety of dog treats available. Some are sweet, some are hard, some are soft, or crunchy or savory or a combination of these. As with us, your dog will prefer a different type at different times. Some things to be aware of if you've chosen a hard or crunchy treat are that it's not too hard and that it won't hurt or break your dog's teeth. You may be surprised to find that some treats are designed to clean your dog's teeth and remove that bad dog breath! You will find that as your dog ages his preferences will change too and you should change the treats that you feed him to suit his age.

Be aware that not all dog treats are beneficial. A lot of them have sugar, preservatives or chemicals that are bad for your dog, so always check the label. If you have a dog with allergies you'll need to check the labels to find a treat that does not cause allergic reactions and that your dog likes. Your vet may be able to help you in this case.

If you don't locate the perfect dog treat you should think about creating your own. It's not as difficult as you may think, and whole companies have started from a kitchen table and a good recipe. Some ingredients to consider are chicken, rice, carrots and peas. It's fun to do and your dog will appreciate the effort! If you've any left over consider selling them to your local pet store. Many carry small lines of homemade treats. If you need some recipes try searching on the internet, or just invent your own. Once you've made your treats keep them in airtight containers. This not only helps keep them fresh, but also keeps them safe from your dog too!

What to Look For in a Dog Toy

One of a dog's favorite pastimes is chewing. Most dogs just love to chew! Oh, and chew :-) So don't be surprised that a lot of the dog toys on the market today are focused on chewing. A dog toy that can be chewed provides a benefit for your dog's teeth and supports his natural tendency to chew. This not only helps dental health but is a non destructive and safe outlet for your dog's need to chew.

Before you go and buy a chew toy you need to think about how your dog likes to chew. A canine that chews hard and vigorously will need a stronger toy made out of hard rubber or nylon. Latex and vinyl toys are designed for canines who are lighter chewers. Whichever type your dog is, you will need to keep a watch when he's playing with the toy, especially squeaky toys, to make sure that you can take away the pieces as it falls apart. Some toys can be destroyed in a matter of minutes.

For the moderate or average chewer and for puppies there are dental or flavored chew toys made out of rawhide that can be eaten. These are great, just give it to your dog and let him have at it! Also for puppies there are the plush toys that he can carry around and snuggle up with. Make sure it's machine washable though otherwise it's going to get really dirty!

For fun you might like to try out a Tricky Treat Ball. This is an entertaining toy that gets filled with treats, usually dry like kibble. You can also try out cheese, carrots or meat cut into small cubes. Put the food into the ball and give it a shake. Then let your dog play with it and the food will fall through the holes in the ball. Your favorite friend will love it!!

You can go even further with this idea. There are gumball machines designed to use treats or dry food for your dog. Just add the food to the machine and let your dog play with the gumball machine.

It's important to keep your dog entertained with good dog toys and treats, and he in turn will keep you entertained for hours!

David Amos is a dog lover and long time dog owner. For more information about dog toys and treats click Dog Toys and Dog Treats, and for more about dog health and keeping your dog happy click Dogs and Puppies Online.

 

Hiring a Pet Sitter

By Elyse Grau

Going on vacation without the dog? Need to leave your cat for the weekend? You might want to hire a pet sitter. If you have never done that before, this article can help you avoid mistakes. Knowing you have a competent, reliable person taking care of your pets will make your trip less stressful.

The best way to find a pet sitter is to ask your veterinarian or friends who have pets for recommendations. There may be people who do it occasionally, like I do, just not as a business. Some pet sitters will advertise in the yellow pages or newspapers. Most will leave flyers or business cards with veterinarians.

Many pet sitters belong to professional organizations, and some of these have websites you can visit. Some of them offer a search feature, but remember that only their members will be listed. Some smaller towns may not have local professional pet sitters.

Keep your expectations realistic. Normally, a pet sitter will feed the animals, let them out or walk them, change litter boxes and do whatever else is needed to care for the animal. They will spend an average of thirty minutes for each visit. They might even pick up your mail and water your plants.

There is usually an extra charge for additional visits during the day. Some sitters may be willing to spend the night - something you may desire if you have older or sick animals.

Make sure the pet sitter will come and meet the animals before you hire her. It is important that both the animal and the sitter be comfortable with each other.

Be sure to plan well in advance, as pet sitters are usually in heavy demand. You should ask for the pet sitter's fees and policies in writing, so you know exactly what to expect. I would suggest getting references; a trustworthy businessperson will have these readily available.

Ask what other kinds of animal experience the person has. Someone with veterinary experience, such as a technician, is a good choice for special needs pets. A dog trainer, or someone who has trained a few animals will know how to handle dogs with behavioral issues. A pet groomer will have experience handling both dogs and cats in stressful situations.

Pet sitters are not required to have any special licensing, but those who have gone to the trouble of acquiring accreditation from one of the pet sitter organizations show a high degree of professionalism in my opinion. They will have been required to take a course that usually includes business management, animal care and animal health instruction. Accredited pet sitters will therefore likely have more diverse knowledge and experience than someone who has not been through the course. Once you have found the right sitter for you, be sure to give and get all the information you both will need.

You will want to leave phone numbers for where you can be reached, as well as a friend or neighbor who might be able to answer questions or help out in emergencies. Provide the sitter with the name, address and phone number of your veterinarian, and leave a signed letter giving permission for necessary medical procedures to be preformed. Additionally, make sure you have a way to reach the sitter at all times, in case something comes up.

Be sure to tell the pet sitter of any special behavioral problems or quirks. If your dog is afraid of people in hats, say, the sitter will not make the mistake of wearing her rain hat indoors! Point out where all the supplies are; food, dishes, toys, beds, etc. Tell the pet sitter your rules on treats, how much you feed, how often and when. If you can put everything the pet sitter may need in one central location, so much the better.

If your animals are on strict schedules for feeding or medication, ask if these can be accommodated, and work out an acceptable compromise if need be.

Be sure your pet sitter is bonded and insured. Don't forget, she will have the keys to your home. Also, make arrangements for payment and the return of your keys.

It is a good idea to have a contingency plan in place in the event that your return is delayed. Plan to call the sitter on your return or ask her to call you at a specified time.

The pet sitter should also have a backup plan in case he or she is unable to attend to your pets for some reason. If not, you had better make a backup plan of your own.

Leaving the pets behind can add unnecessary stress to your trip. Knowing that you have hired an experienced pet sitter, and that you have provided her with everything she needs to do the job right can help ease that stress.

The author is an experienced pet owner, with knowledge of pet nutrition, feeding and training. She is past owner of a natural treat company. Elyse is also a herbalist, and uses herbs and holistic remedies for her animals. http://www.pethealthresource.com

Make Your Cat Feel Comfortable When Traveling

Unlike dogs, whom seem to enjoy rides with their owners for adventure away from the home front, cats do not feel so comfortable leaving the comforts of home even for a little while. Trying to go for a ride with your cat can be quite an adventure in itself. By nature cats can be pretty picky and grow rather fond of their surroundings. There are many reasons why your cat doesn't enjoy traveling. Maybe they view the carrier as a restrictive punishment or the thought of going to the vet with his tools and practices are enough to scare your cat. For whatever reason, there are some things that you can do to help your cat feel more comfortable about traveling.

One way to have travel for your cat made easier is by traveling with your cat during the early stages of their life. Start out with short trips. A ride just around the block or a trip to the store are good places to start. These short trips should be done fairly often so that your cat can get used to travel and not be so nervous and anxious. You and your cat may want to venture past your backyard and check out the beautiful nature scenes after your cat has gotten used to wearing a leash and harness. You can try taking your feline friend on longer trips away from home and their cat furniture once they are comfortable with the small trips.

In the situation of spending long periods of time away from your home, you may wish to bring your cat along. This way the feeling of being separated is avoided for both you and your cat. For international travel you may need to check and see if there are any special accommodations needed. These special accommodations may include documents, vaccinations or any other accommodations needed for your cat. In the cases of quarantine, it may be easier for you to leave your cat behind this time. The stress that is involved with quarantine just would be too much unless you were looking to permanently relocate. Before you engage in the travel, have your cat visit the vet for any check ups and shots that your cat may be due for. Also make sure to ask about sedatives. You want to call ahead and make sure that the place of stay permits animals.

Information such as your cats name, your name, your personal residence address and the address of the your destination should be printed on an identification tag attached to a cat collar. This is a very important item. Let's not forget luggage for your cat. Items that will be needed for your cat may include things such as foods that he likes, drinking water, leash and harness, bowls for the food and water, litter box and litter, scooper, some of his favorite toys, medical records, medications, first aid and grooming supplies. To clean up any spills and general cleanliness paper towels and some spray cleaner. Placing some disposable diapers in the bottom of the carrier will make cleanup easier and quicker.

When traveling by vehicle, be safety conscious. Prevent shifting and rocking by placing the carrier in a very secure spot. With out blocking ventilation you may place a towel over the carrier to ease your cat and give him some comfort. Talking in soft calm tones or even soft music playing over the radio can help your cat to relax. At each stop you make on your trip put a leash and harness on your cat and allow him to stretch his legs. Your cat should never be left unattended in your vehicle for any reason. Humidity that can build up in the vehicle can cause your cat to have heatstroke.

David Lee is the owner & designer of several pet sites. Find info on cat kidney disease, cat trees and for dog lovers German Shepherd training

Navicular Disease in Horses

By Ronnie Kellner

Navicular-disease is lameness of the front feet caused by an injury or inflammation to the navicular bone which is part of the coffin joint in a horse's foot.

The condition has been recognized for well over 200 years but there is still no single effective treatment.

The navicular bone is a small bone at the back of the foot, about 5 cm in from the middle of the frog.

It serves as a pulley for the flexor tendon.

It helps maintain a constant angle of attachment for the deep flexor tendon which connects the foot to one the biggest muscles in the horse.

It also acts as a valve for blood flow to the coffin bone and corium inside the hoof.

This means that the navicular bone takes a real beating during heavy exercise or if the horse has to work on hard surfaces.

Hard surfaces such as pavement cause jarring to the bones.

In between the navicular bone and the tendon is a fluid filled sac called the navicular bursa.

The fluid provides a smooth slide of the tendon over the bone.

Navicular syndrome arises from a degeneration of the bursa, the bone and the flexor tendon. The sliding movement becomes more difficult.

Factors Leading to Navicular:

-Circulation problems

-The conformations of the horse

-Inherited disposition to the disease

Racing, cutting and roping horses have a higher incidence of navicular disease than pleasure horses.

Diagnosis: with Navicular disease there is a gradual and progressive increase in lameness of the front legs. So gradual that by the time it is diagnosed it usually has progressed to an advanced state.

Signs to look for:

•Shortening of the stride

•A continual shifting of body weight when resting

•A stumbling gait

•Slight unevenness on turns

•Reluctance to go forward properly or lengthen the stride

•Pointing - the horse will stand at rest with one leg extended, the weight resting on the toe

•When the foot is pressure tested, the horse will usually indicate heel pain

• Irritability

• Hoof becomes smaller and contracted

A horse with navicular disease tends to place its weight on the toe while walking to avoid placing pressure on the heel area, which contains the inflamed navicular bone and bursa. Since the horse does not place weight on the heel, it takes longer to stop the stride. While standing the horse tends to shift its weight continuously. This relieves pressure, and thus pain, on the heel areas. Since the horse tends to place its weight on the toes during movement, the gait is very rough and sometimes gives the appearance of lameness in the shoulder. The horse is often lame after work, but the lameness may disappear with rest. Because there may be comparably poor circulation in the foot, the heels and adjacent hoof may become smaller and contract because there may be comparably poor circulation in the foot, the heels and adjacent hoof may become smaller and contract.

Treating Navicular:

Treatments for navicular disease have included drugs such as Isoxuprine (Circulon®)This drug dilates the small peripheral blood vessels, thereby improving circulation.

Treatment of giving a pain reliever such as Bute, although there is the danger of bone fracture and of deep digital flexor tendon rupture if pain relief remedies are given for the pain because it allows the horse to put more pressure on the leg.

Gallium nitrate treatment:

Gallium nitrate is the newest and least tested chemical therapy. It sounds very interesting.

"According to Raymond P. Warrell, Jr., M.D., of the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City, elemental gallium and its various compounds are potent inhibitors of bone resorption that act to maintain and restore bone mass in all vertebrate species."

Acupuncture and magnet therapy is open to speculation but many people say it is helpful.

The treatment of cutting the nerve (neurectomy) supplying sensation the heels of the foot can also cause bone fracture. If a neurectomy is performed, the horse should be put out to pasture.

A new surgical treatment which involves cutting the navicular suspensory ligament will result in long term improvement (3 years) in about 40% horses.

A horse with navicular disease must have correct trimming and balancing of the foot. In many cases there is improvement of the problem with correct shoeing and trimming.

Diagnosing Navicular syndrome;

A locally injected anesthetic that temporarily blocks the nerve supply to the affected area will relieve the pain for a short period of time.

In this way the veterinarian can determine whether or not navicular disease exists.

If the horse was lame before the injection, and walks normally after the injection, it may be assumed that the lameness is located in the navicular area.

Preventing Navicular syndrome:

• Do not keep the horse confined or stall-kept

• Exercise the horse consistently

• Horses with strong physical demands placed on them inconsistently might develop the disease

• Keep the horse from becoming overweight since the pressure of their weight on the hoofs can cause problems.

• Horses with small feet such as thoroughbred and quarter horse can develop this disease

• If the hooves are not properly cared for, the navicular bone becomes immobile, resulting in poor blood flow within the hoof.

For more information please visit my website http://www.livingwithhorses.com Living with horses was created after moving to our ranch in St. Lazare, Quebec. As city "slickers" my husband and I sold our duplex in downtown Montreal, packed up our graphic design office and moved everything out to the country. We did it on a whim and we never looked back! Isn't it time you started living your dream? I think life is about having experiences and having fun in the mean time.

Pet Photography Phobias

Is your pet a "photo phobe?" Take heart! Though getting a great shot of Fifi or Fido is a bit more difficult when your subject has a camera issue, with a little patience and perseverance you can help your pet get over the photographic "phobias" described below.

The shy or camera-shy pet Some animals initially feel uncomfortable or frightened when you stare intently at them through a camera lens. Some are simply shy by nature; others associate fixed stares, which are a hallmark of predators, with being considered as dinner.

My own Carolina Dog Antoine was a great example of "photo nerves" when he first came to live with me. I decided to make a game of taking his picture by looking at him through the lens for a couple of seconds at a time while telling him what a good dog he is. Like everyone on the planet, Antoine loves being praised, so he quickly came to associate being praised with being viewed through a camera. Now I can snap pictures of him any time, any place.

The camera hog In sharp contrast to the camera-shy models, some animals just love the feeling of receiving close attention so much that they become camera hogs. My mustang mare Astarte fell into this category. Anytime she saw me with my camera, she would immediately shove her pasture mate out of the way, then run up and stick her nose on the lens-and nose shots were definitely not her most flattering pose!

The totally bored subject Then there are those animals who won't do anything except look bored so long as you're holding your camera. My cat Katie is an excellent example. Normally, Katie will play at a moment's notice. She leaps, she bounds, she stands on her hind legs and boxes. She is graceful, gorgeous and highly photogenic-until the camera comes into view, when she freezes up like an aging actress without her makeup and refuses to cooperate at all.

Ah, but Katie does love a new catnip toy. Every time I bring one home, she begins mewing in greedy anticipation before I even get the toy out of the bag, then grabs the toy, racing around the room triumphantly with it in her mouth, giving it a good shake every now and then just to let it know who's boss. She rolls around the floor clutching the toy to her belly and purring ecstatically, providing me with absolutely wonderful photo ops!

Once you've identified and resolved your pet's camera problems, you'll find that taking pet photos is a truly delightful hobby-so much so, in fact, you may find yourself taking so many pet photos you need new ways to display them. If that becomes the case, consider these great ways to display your great pet photos:

¥ Coffee mugs and coasters: If you can't take your pet to work with you-or your son or daughter who's away-at-college is homesick for the family pets-a pet photo mug can do a lot to soothe that "missing you" feeling;

¥ Calendar: A wonderfully way to enjoy a variety of pet photos all year long;

¥ Tote bag: Carry your books, papers and other stuff in style in a canvas tote bag decorated with your favorite pet photo;

¥ Greeting cards: Wish family and friends happy holidays on greeting cards customized with your pet's picture.

To see some great examples of just how great your pet photos can look on any or all of these go to: http://www.howtotalkwithanimals.com/gifts.html

Copyright Julie S. Crawshaw 2007. Julie S. Crawshaw is a freelance writer, animal lover and the author of Talking With Animals, available at http://www.howtotalkwithanimals.com . Please feel free to use this article with attribution and without changes, and to visit http://www.howtotalkwithanimals.com/books.html for more articles about interacting and communicating with animals.

When Animals Escape! Tips On Keeping Your Animals In-Doors

By Jeff Swett

Cats and dogs love to be outside. Heck, we all love to be outside, but some of our pets have a tendency to be escape artists at the mere chance to sneak away.

Our fellow apartmentite, KHouse, shared a story with me about how her cat, Snowball, loves to leap over the patio railing or even squeeze under it when she is left alone on the patio for just a couple of seconds. Thankfully, she lives on the first floor, so the cat doesn't have much of a fall. Apparently, though, getting the cat back over the railing and into the apartment is quite the challenge as Snowballdini will cower in a corner and hiss and mew anytime you get close to her.

My mother had a dog who would bolt out the front door anytime my grandmother opened it because he knew she was too slow to stop him. It was amazing to watch, but very tiring to chase him down. You would have thought that animal was on some sort of performance enhancer.

So, what steps can you take to prevent your pets from escaping your apartment?

On the patio, you want to create a barrier without sacrificing the looks. Stapling some chicken wire across the bottom would serve the purpose splendidly, but would look really trashy. Plus any loose ends in the wire could be sharp and may harm you or the animal. An alternative would be to take a 1 x 6 piece of strip wood and place that along the bottom to block the escape area. Then run potted plants in front of it to hide the bored look of the board. Heck, you could even paint and decorate the wood if you wanted. Just don't leave it looking like a plank. That's almost worse than chicken wire.

Regarding the top railing...cats like to jump. That's a certainty. The best way to prevent a cat from leaping onto something is to place items there that block their landing. They're smart. Most cats will see this and won't take the leap. Potted plants work great along the railing and should take up enough space to keep them from leaping. Almost anything will work, just make sure it looks good. Remember not to sacrifice your style. How your apartment looks, is a reflection of you...so are your pets, so that's a delicate balance.

The easiest and one of the most common solutions to keeping dogs from running out of the front door or running into rooms that they aren't allowed to, is putting up a baby gate. No dog owner should ever be without one of these. Even when you are training them as puppies, a baby gate comes in handy for keeping the little un-potty trained puppies in the kitchen, laundry room, or bathroom and off of the carpet. If you want to give your dog some fresh air, but don't want him running out of the door, just throw up a baby gate and let them hang out right there soaking up the sun. They don't look bad either!

There are number of methods and tips out there to help prevent the unfortunate event of an escape artist pet. Losing a pet is always a very saddening experience, so please take these tips and apply them or find something to keep your little lovable creatures in your apartment. If you know any great tips, please send them my way so that I can share them with your fellow apartmentite pet lovers.

Jeff's just a regular guy with a funny goatee that really enjoys people and life. On top of that he is a bit of an expert on apartments, living in them, and getting the most out of the apartment living lifestyle. As a Managing Partner of Apartment Home Living, Jeff wants to help you find the right apartment by getting to know you. Not only where you want to live & what you want to pay, but what you like. This way, we can help you find an apartment that fits your personality, not just your budget. At AHL Apartmentites have a platform to share their own stories, get great info & tips on apartment living, read Jeff's entertaining blogs/stories, find Answers to a wide array of apartment related questions, and have a ton of fun sharing their love of apartment living with others. Don't forget to go and set up your own MyPlace page to really get the full Apartmentite experience!

 

The Benefits Of Pet Therapy In Patients

By Joy Gill

Pet therapy is an area that has received increased attention in therapeutic recreation. In recent years, the experts have been relying on pet therapy as a valuable aid in reaching out to the elderly, the infirm, and to ill or abused children through-out the country. Pet Therapy is the commonly used term for animal-assisted therapy (AAT), animal-assisted activities (AAA) and pet visitation. It is also recognized at hospitals around the country as a great way to help children cope with the stress and anxiety associated with hospitalization. Pet Therapy is a general term that encompasses many therapeutic activities involving animals as companions or occasional visitors to the sick, elderly, or mentally ill.

Pet therapy is now being used to help with a wide range of medical and emotional ailments. Sometimes just one treatment can and does work in alleviating many symptoms. Pet therapy also promotes socialization, improves self-esteem and security, and provides entertainment and acceptance. The visitations provide a warm and comforting presence, patient listeners, and a relaxing interlude to residents of health care facilities. The pet therapy program was initiated at Wishard Health Services in November 2002 and is now is a recognized method of treatment the world over, more so in developed countries and continues to grow by leaps and bounds. Pet therapy is one of the most rewarding volunteer activities a dog and handler can be involved with and is becoming a popular and important role for many animals, especially dogs. Visits can have a positive effect on a resident or patient's physical health, as well as on his or her emotional health by reducing loneliness and creating a sense of purpose. For the lonely residents of nursing homes, mental health facilities, rehabilitation centers, and homes for the handicapped, holding a warm puppy or playful kitten provides the unconditional love they need so much.

For people who enjoy animals, pet therapy offers some solid benefits: better health, more relaxed mood, enhanced connection to the world, improved communication, and the needed chance to play and create. Under direction of health services and education professionals, animal-assisted therapy can promote physical movement, emotional well being, cognitive awareness and social improvement for people with disabilities. In a health care facility, people come out of their rooms to socialize with the animals and with each other.

Each dog must undergo extensive training before they can interact with patients. In order to participate in a pet therapy program, volunteers generally need to undergo training and testing. You can help prepare your dog by ensuring good healthy socialization, positive exposure to a variety of people, other animals, environmental factors and situations. If you own a calm, friendly animal that would make a good pet companion and would like to check into volunteering, you can search the Internet for organizations that seek volunteers or contact a university's school of veterinary medicine for information.

Finally, although pet therapy has been shown to be effective for many people, it is important to remember that not everyone enjoys the presence of animals. Like any other type of therapeutic intervention, pet therapy should take the patient's likes and dislikes into account. Overall, participating in any type of Pet therapy program can be a very rewarding experience for everyone involved. To find pet therapy near you, look for a program with clear, therapeutic goals for its participants and also have Infection control guidelines that ensure patient safety. Also, be sure to get approval from your Dr. before starting any visits.

Please visit http://trujem.com/blog to see more of my work.

Betta Fish Friends

By Bosun Sogeke

Betta fish can also be placed with other fish. This truth is often unnoticed due to the fighting nature of the Beta. It is suggested that the other fish be smaller in size then the beta fish.

The tank friends for the betta fish may include:

Platies- The southern platy fish is a type of freshwater fish. It grows to a maximum size of 6.0 cm (2.4 in). Sexual dimorphism is small, the male's caudal fin being more pointed. Wild varieties are dull in coloration, deficient of the typical dark lateral line common to many Xiphophorus species. Breeders have developed a large number of color varieties which are ordinary aquarium fish for hobbyists. Platys are trouble-free to maintain and compatible to a community aquarium. This fish is generally sold in pet shops

Swordtails – It is native to an area of North and Central America extending from Veracruz, Mexico, to northwestern Honduras. The male green swordtail grows to an average size of 14cm (5.5in) and the female to 16 cm (6.3 in). Sexual dimorphism is reasonable, with the female being larger than the male but missing the "sword". The wild variety is olive green in color, with a red or brown side stripe and speckles on the dorsal and, occasionally, caudal fins. Confined breeding has created many color varieties, including black, red, and numerous patterns thereof, for the aquarium hobby.

Cory Cats - Cory Cats are some of the most nonviolent and interesting scavengers for a freshwater aquarium, and will flourish in a wide variety of water conditions. These catfish are very active hunters who remain comparatively small. As a result of this, they are ideal for keeping the substrate uncontaminated in a smaller freshwater community aquarium. They have a preference to be in schools of 6 or more but many people place one or two Cory cats in their smaller tanks.

Neon Tetras- The neon tetra is until now one of the most excellent community fish there is on the market. Placed in a school of 6 or more, these little guys are a tremendous scene swimming around the aquarium and chasing each other back and forth. Neons are very passive and quite small, so shouldn't be placed with very large fish which might find it a delicious meal. When placed with other fish, think about the violent behavior and size of possible tank-mates. Neons cannot be placed with killer type fish or anything that is large sufficiently to eat them, including the naive looking Angelfish.

Cardinal Tetras- The Cardinal Tetra is one of the most preferred fish to have in a tank, primarily for the reason of its splendid coloration. On the other hand, maintaining these little fish have the need of a definite knowledge that many possessors do not have. These fish are tremendously hard to breed in detention, almost all of the fish available in shops have been taken from the Amazon basin, and sadly thousands of them die every year in unsuitable tanks. It is rather ordinary, for example, to see a little kid walk into a shop with a few coins and buy one or two cardinals to add to his goldfish bowl.

White Cloud Mountain Minnow- The White Cloud Mountain minnow is an extremely resilient species of freshwater fish often placed in aquaria. This species grows to an average size of 4 cm (roughly 1.5 in), and is silver-green in color with a vivid red caudal fin. A number of varieties are known, one with vivid light edges to the dorsal and anal fins and one with red edges to those fins. Also, there is a long-finned variety. Sexual dimorphism is small, the male usually possessing more radiant coloration and having a little slimmer body.

Zebra Danios- Among the most resilient and lively of aquarium fish, the Zebra danio is easily known by its typical horizontal stripes. Their small size, no more than two and half inches, and passive temperament, make them compatible to a community aquarium. Albino, veil tailed, and long finned ranges are obtainable, as well as a well-liked leopard variety. All varieties flourish in schools.

Cherry barbs- The Cherry Barb is a gorgeous, nonviolent fish. It makes a brilliant community fish and is best if placed in groups of 6 or more. The females are easy to differentiate, once they grew older. They are much lighter in color, generally just with some yellow and a light orange/black straight band. The female is also very plumper than the male. All in all, the cherry barb is an outstanding community fish and makes a beautiful addition to any tank.

For more information or to learn more on Betta Fish, please visit my blog

Box Turtle Care

Congratulations, you have a new box turtle. But how do you take care of your precious new friend? Taking care of a box turtle can take some work, but there are simple steps to ensure that your box turtle is happy in his new home.

First you must decide housing for the turtle. Will you keep it indoors or outdoors? If you decide to keep the turtle outside, make sure that the area is similar to the turtle's natural habitat. There should be plenty of sun since box turtles are reptiles, but also shade in case the turtle becomes overheated under the constant heat of the sun. Provide water for your turtle so that it is deep enough for swimming. The home should have weed-like plants and insects for consumption. An outdoor setting is probably the home a turtle would choose. However, an indoor home properly made will keep your box turtle just as happy and safe.

If you build your turtle a home indoors, use a container like those made by Rubbermaid. The best option is to have a large, dark container that the turtle cannot see through. A turtle can become perplexed and frightened looking out of a clear container. One of my box turtles constantly tried to climb through the wall of his clear container, so I had to move him. The container should be large and filled a few inches deep with a substrate such as "Bed-a-Beast." Then provide a hiding place for the turtle such as a hollow log. You should make a pool for the turtle since that is where a turtle usually poops. I used the plastic lid of a container for food. Make sure that the pool is not too deep. Every day, keep the entire tank moist by spraying the surfaces of the home.

Inside the home of the turtle, keep the temperature fairly warm in the lighted area- about 80 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Use UV-B light to keep the turtle healthy and active all day. Another option is to take your turtle outside to soak in the sun for about an hour a day. The natural sunlight is tremendously healthy for your turtle, although he may not enjoy it at first. Just remember, you know what's best for your turtle. Keep an area away from the light so that the turtle can rest there when he's had enough light. This is why it is important to have a container that is large enough for two distinct areas.

The food a turtle eats is obviously very important to its health. A person must watch his or her own diet. It is your responsibility, however, to feed your turtle healthy foods. A turtle will eat almost anything, from fruits and vegetables to insects and worms. Another factor you should consider is providing edible materials with high calcium levels such as boiled eggshells or a cuttlebone that you can buy at any pet store. One final hint to feeding your turtle- have fun with it. Be creative in feeding your turtle from day to day because you do not want to create an addiction to one food by feeding it the same thing each day. Keep the turtle's diet balanced with half plant and half meat.

I have a few final hints below on how to take care of your new box turtle.

1. If your turtle does not eat, try soaking the food in water first. Or, if you are constantly there watching your turtle, he may never come eat the food. Unfortunately, you can easily frighten turtles, so leave your turtle alone to eat peacefully.

2. Change the water in an indoors home every day to keep it clean since that is the most likely place a turtle will defecate. When coaxing a turtle to do this, use warm water to help him.

3. If a turtle burrows deep into the substrate and does not come up for a few days, don't worry. This is completely natural since turtles enjoy being in tight spaces. However, make sure that your turtle gets enough food.

4. Feed your turtle on a rock because this will help him scratch away extra-long toenails.

Just follow the easy tips above, and you will be an expert caretaker for your new turtle. Do not neglect your turtle since it is helpless without you. Be responsible and enjoy your friendship.

Joshua Park is a college student studying biology. He enjoys sports, comedic movies, and music. To learn more about box turtles or to read other articles this author has written, please visit http://www.true-money.com/ by clicking the link.

Winter Time Birds

By S. Roberts

Wintertime is very difficult for birds, especially the further north that they live because the weather gets considerably colder and harsher. The ground often freezes preventing them form accessing the nutritious worms. The insects are hibernating and most hedgerows and trees are dormant for the cold winter months. Birds can find it difficult to find enough food or even a drink, especially if the winter has brought snow.

Lots f people help the birds by throwing out stale bread for them to eat. Although this does elevate the birds hunger, bread isn't a very nutritious food source.

Most garden bird's staple diet is usually, fruit and berries, nuts and seeds, insects, worms and grubs, Very tasty.

To really help the bird out this winter you could string p some monkey nuts. Buy some peanuts in their shells and thread a sharp wool needle with a length of wool with a knot in the end of it. Push the needle through the middle of the peanut shell and out of the other side, it's a bit like threading beads. Thread on more monkey nuts in this way until the wool is almost full. Unthread the needle, make a loop in the wool that is left and tie a knot to keep the nuts and the loop in place. Use the loop to hang the nuts from the bird-table or tree.

You could also make a tasty bird-cake...

Add to a bowl some chopped up bacon rind, leftover chicken bits from Sunday dinner, a few peanuts, a few raisins and frozen peas, some shelled sunflower seeds if you have any, some diced apple and a couple of heaped table spoons of flour and mix well. Add some water and mix to create dough.

Mould into a ball shape and leave it over night on the kitchen windowsill to dry. By morning it will be hard and ready to leave out on a bird table or lawn for the birds to peck at.

It's just as important the water is left out as well as food. In the winter, water turns to ice and the birds do not have access to drinking water. Leave a dish with fresh water in it out in your garden for the birds, and check it on really cold mornings to make sure it hasn't turned to ice.

Some of the UK's bird population are becoming endangered, this means that their population numbers are falling. Organisations like the RSPB do valuable work to protect and monitor endangered breeds of bird. You could monitor the birds yourself during the winter months, spend an hour each day for a week recording all the birds that visit your garden or bird-table. Bird watching is also known as twitching.

There is a chart on the website, a list of UK winter birds that you may see. Each bird has an illustration to help you to identify which breed it is, and there is some information about each birds preferred habitat. Some birds are residents of the UK, which means they like here all year round, others just visit for the winter.

Some birds on the list are endangered, so some of the birds are rarer than others; but you may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of them. Maybe you could tempt them into your garden with a bit of tasty bird-cake.

S. Roberts writes for santaspostbag.co.uk a website offering Christmas information, education and tips and advice to help your Christmas be the greatest ever. Plus correspond with Santa for FREE http://www.santaspostbag.co.uk/your-letter-from-santa.php In association with http://www.bigboystoyz.com Visit the winter bird chart http://santaspostbag.co.uk/UK-winter-Birds.html

 

Reptiles and Salmonella

I'll bet you didn't know that lizards and turtles can carry harmful bacteria called Salmonella.

I love reptiles and I bet you do too (or you probably would not be reading this article!). You may have noticed that reptiles are becoming more and more popular as family pets. Reptiles such as turtles, iguanas, snakes, geckos, horned toads, and chameleons can make great pets because they are fascinating, quiet, don't require daily feeding/walking, and can be kept in a cage with relatively very little fuss. However, there is a cautionary note folks need to be aware of when taking on a reptile for a pet. Reptiles sometimes carry a bacteria called Salmonella that can cause serious illness in people.

Although many people think of salmonellosis as an illness caused by contaminated food, it can also be caught by handling a pet reptile or contact with its environment. The trick is that you can't tell by looking at a lizard, snake, or a turtle if it is carrying Salmonella. You see, Salmonella occurs naturally in many reptiles and the bacteria doesn't usually make the animals sick.

If you have ever had about it, you most likely won't ever forget it. Salmonellosis is a serious infection of the gastrointestinal tract. Diarrhea is the most common symptom of Salmonella infection, but other symptoms such as fever, headache, nausea, and vomiting can also occur. It can sometimes be extremely serious and even fatal for young children, the elderly, and persons with weak immune systems. Salmonellosis is not to be taken lightly. For that reason, families with children aged 5 years or younger or persons with weak immune systems should think twice about having pet reptiles.

Bacteria, including Salmonella, are easily passed from pet reptiles to people. Research by the Center for Disease Control shows that a person who handles reptiles can easily pass germs to others because bacteria are able to cling to skin, clothing and other surfaces. To reduce the chances of getting sick with salmonellosis by handling reptiles, here are some tips to follow as a reptile pet owner:

• Wash hands with soap and water immediately after handling a reptile; Launder any clothing the reptile might have touched
• Do not allow reptiles to roam the house freely
• Keep reptiles out of the kitchen
• Use soap or a disinfectant to thoroughly clean any surfaces that have been in contact with reptiles.

Another thing to keep in mind is that it is illegal in the United States to sell or distribute turtles with shells that measure less than 4 inches in length. This size was chosen because some small children treat smaller turtles as toys and put them in their mouths. Yuk! Despite this ban, these small turtles can still be found in some pet stores.

Of course, children will still catch wild turtles and lizards and bring them home to keep as pets, which is what kids are supposed to do. Just keep in mind, whether store-bought or caught in a friend's backyard, a reptile can carry Salmonella and might not be the best choice of a pet for your family, especially if there are young children or persons with compromised immune systems in the household.

Tom Vaughan is an avid admirer of reptiles, especially snakes. He caught his first rattlesnake (pygmy rattler) at age 10 and hasn't stopped catching reptiles since. A favorite website is http://www.reptilefile.com

Natural Remedies for Your Dog's Irritated Skin

By Karen Chrisman

Natural remedies are becoming more popular. Many are trying to find alternative ways to treat their dogs health problems. Here are a couple of remedies for your dog's itchy or irritated skin problems.

Look around for a Burdock plant - Burdock plants produce those irritating burrs which stick to everything, especially your socks.

Dig up the root and express the sap out of it.

Mix the sap with vaseline.

Stir until the sap and vaseline is well blended.

Apply to the affected area 4 times daily.

Find a Plantain plant, usually found in most backyards. Plantain reduces redness, itching and inflammation.

Chop up a leaf of the plantain plant.

Mash it into a paste.

Apply paste to the affected area.

Arnica is a homeopathic remedy that lessens itching. It is a good remedy for "Hot Spots".

Purchase Arnica 30C from a local health store or online.

Give 2 times a day for 2-3 days, checking to see if there is improvement.

If there is improvement, do not repeat.

If there is not an improvement, repeat for 2-3 more days.

Make your own Shampoo for Fleas and Irritated Skin!

Using your own pet shampoo, add 10 drops of tea tree oil and 1 tablespoon of aloe vera (from the plant) to 8 ounces of pet shampoo.

Add 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to 1 pint of water, mixing as much as needed for the size of your dog. It is best to put it in a spray bottle.

Shampoo your dog with your shampoo mixture. Leave the shampoo on for about 10 minutes, making sure to work the shampoo into the skin.

Rinse thoroughly.

Rinse again with the apple cider water mixture. This restores the natural pH of the skin.

Karen has a blog providing natural and alternative health information for dogs. Natural & positive dog training, book and product reviews are also covered. Karen manages several dog web sites to benefit dog owners. Visit for more great info at 4theLuvofDogs.com.

 

How To Toilet Train Your Cat eBook Review and Case Study

By Marvin Charles

The following is a thorough review and case study of the Toilet Train Your Cat eBook.

Purpose

Extensive research indicates that toilet training your cat as opposed to having your cat use a litter box is highly beneficial to the cat's overall well-being leading to happier and healthier cats.

Additional research has shown that cats associate the smell of the litter box with danger and though using it are often fearful of the litter box causing them stress. Even further, the contents of the litter box including fragrances, deodorants, dyes and disinfectants can be harmful to your cat's health and well being. Study

We selected six cats including two of each breed (one male, one female) of the more popular Maine Coon, Ragdoll, and Persian breed of cat and then applied the techniques found in the Toilet Train My Cat eBook.

Results

We found the skills and tactics to be highly effective. Two cats were toilet trained within six days, 2 cats were toilet trained within 6 weeks, one cat was toilet trained within 4 months and though our study ended after six months, the last cat seems to be nearly completing the training.

Analysis

The female cats were on the relatively quicker side of learning as opposed to the male counterparts. Two female cats (Maine Coon and Persian finished within six days). The third female finished the program with 6 weeks. As for the males, the Ragdoll was the last one who had yet to complete the program at the end of six months.

Review

We highly recommend theToilet Train My Cat eBook. It is highly effective, efficient and successful. The book carefully walks you and your cat through the steps necessary to Toilet Train Your Cat and the company also throws in some great bonus gifts including a Cat's Treats and a Cat's Training Guide. For more information or to purchase your eBook go to Toilet Train My Cat eBook here..

Marvin has toilet trained many cats using these proven steps and recommends reviewing the Basic Steps To Toilet Training Cats Here with pictures and video. Marvin is also a lover of many pets.

 

How to Clean Cat Urine and Keep the Smell Away!

By Thomas Allen

Do you need to know how to clean cat urine fast? It's a common problem among cat owners. Your cat pees on the rug, leaving a foul smell that penetrates the whole room. If urine soaked carpet is not cleaned up immediately, the smell can settle into the whole house!

To avoid having your house smell like a "cat-house", it is best to clean up the cat urine immediately. However, it is not always possible to be ready with the cleaner in hand every time your cat soils the rug. But fear not, here is a solution that works thoroughly!

Follow these steps to learn how to clean cat urine from your carpet.

1) Add Cold Water If you have caught the accident in time and the urine soaked area is still wet, blot the area immediately to soak up as much cat urine as possible. For blotting, you can use paper towels, a moist sponge, a towel, or whatever you want to use for a blotter, just make sure it's white.

Next, you will want to pour some cold water directly over the stained area. Make sure you "blot", rather than "scrub" the carpet at this stage. This will help remove the urine rather than grind it deeper into the carpet fibers. Keep blotting until the yellow urine is no longer visible on the white blotter (why white is a good color).

2) Add Soda Water Next, you will want to ad soda water to the area. Soda Water works well because the carbonation penetrates deep into the fibers in the carpet. Add approximately 1/2 cup of soda water (depending on the amount of urine). After pouring the soda water on the affected area, repeat the blotting for several minutes. Keep blotting until the blotter absorbs very little wetness.

3) Add Carpet Cleaner or White Vinegar If you prefer to use a commercial carpet cleaner, add it to the soiled area. As an alternative, you can use a 50/50 mixture of hot tap water and regular white vinegar. If you are using carpet cleaner, follow the directions on the product. If you are using vinegar, create a mixture of 1/4-cup hot water from the tap, and 1/4 cup of vinegar.

Pour 1/2 the mixture over the area and scrub it with a brush. Add the remainder of the vinegar and water mixture and let it sit for several minutes. Then blot the area again until it is nearly dry.

4) Add Powdered Deodorizer or Baking Soda Finally, Use a powdered deodorizer and sprinkle it liberally over and around the soiled area. Follow the directions on the label if you use a store bought deodorizer.

Another household item you can use instead of a commercial deodorizer is common baking soda. Pour a generous amount of baking soda over the damp area and scrub it in with the dish washing brush (the brush won't be good for dishes anymore;). Let the soiled area sit for several hours until dry. Once dry, sweep up the excess powder with a broom and dustpan. Then vacuum up the remainder and you should no longer smell the cat urine.

The above cleaning process should take the odor of cat urine out of the carpet completely. If it does not, repeat the steps from number 3 (adding carpet cleaner or white vinegar). You should only have to do this once, twice at the most!

Hopefully, this clean up technique will prevent your house from smelling like a "cat-house". Knowing how to clean cat urine properly is a trick that all cat owners should have in their bag!

To download a free printable .pdf that further shows you how to clean cat urine, visit my website on dealing with bad cat behavior. Better yet, visit my website and learn how to stop your cat's bad behavior completely!

 

Discover the Amazing Benefits of Natural Homemade Dog Food

Pet owners should realize the importance of dog food in their dog's health and safety. Without a well balanced diet, your dog is prone to illnesses that may eventually cause his death. Food is the basic needs of dogs and you have to make sure that your dog is properly fed with nutritious food to keep him healthy. Preparing dog food at home is a good option to take control of your dog's health and safety. Here are the amazing benefits of natural homemade dog food:

Your dog will live longer. Dogs properly fed with natural homemade dog food lives longer than those dogs whose owners feed them commercial dog food. With the absence of dangerous chemicals and preservatives in your homemade dog food, your dog will be healthier, happier and free from all kinds of life threatening diseases.

Your dog will have a perfect slim and attractive weight. Obesity is the number one health disorder of dogs. Commercial dog food is usually high in fat and sugar leading to obesity in dogs. You can prevent obesity and take control of the calorie intake of your dog by preparing natural homemade dog food.

Your dog is not prone to ear and skin infection, worms and fleas. He will look and feel much healthier. With natural homemade dog food, you will save a lot on vet bills with your dog free from all kinds of infections and allergies.

Your dog is well behaved. Chemicals in dog food are proven to cause behavior problems in dogs, including increased aggressiveness. This can be dangerous especially if your dog is around children. Feeding your dog with natural homemade dog food will result to a friendlier and well behaved dog.

Your dog is cleaner and smells better. With natural homemade dog food, you dog's teeth is much cleaner and his breath smells much better. His poo is smaller and has much less stink. Cleaning up is no longer a stomach-turner chore for you.

Your dog will get closer to you and he will love you more. Making his own food is another way to bond with your loving pet. Your efforts to feed him with nutritious natural homemade dog food will be greatly appreciated by your dog and he will love you more for taking good care of him.

Natural homemade dog food will ensure the safety and health of your dog. Get some healthy, well-balanced dog food recipes and start feeding your dog with natural homemade dog food. Discover a proven survival-guide to a healthier, happier dog that lives up to 8.3 years longer than dogs whose owners feed them commercial dog food. Visit Dog Food Secrets at Dogs' Corner To know more about pets visit All About Pets Gerry Restrivera writes informative articles on various subjects including Discover the Amazing Benefits of Natural Homemade Dog Food. You are allowed to publish this article in its entirety provided that author's name, bio and website links must remain intact and included with every reproduction.

 

Pet Health Insurance Eradicates Anguish and Fear

Pet health insurance offers affordable check ups which are a positive correlation to better wellness. Thinking that your pet will stay fit its full life is be commendable, but may not happen. Conditions that affect us, as did the pet food recalls, may happen in spite of our best attempts to provide for our pets.

Should your pet become ill due to an accident or as it ages, the insurance is in place to aid with the vet charges.

The expense of premiums may possibly be more modest than yearly and routine wellness visits.

One of my pets had an urgent surgery that totaled $3000. Trust me this sum of money was not in the financial plans! However, in this situation, the price of the policy was smaller than the value of his life and the correct medical procedure.

My anguish and fear were eradicated, and I did not have to think about euthanasia or a large veterinarian invoice. My only concern was for my pet.

Pet Health Insurance attends the following concerns:

Accidents
Cancer
Surgery
Pre-existing medical conditions
Wellness examinations
Medications
MRI
X-rays
Emergencies

To provide pet health insurance is one positive, important decision a pet owner should make.

Make a knowledgeable selection on pet health insurance, for your cat or dog. Review all factors available concerning the health of your beloved pet

Sheri Davis Collins is a responsible pet owner for 20+ years, practicing holistic and homeopathic care. She is also the webmaster of http://www.allthingscat.com The website for alternative views on cat health care. Which includes correct feeding, health problems, harmful cat litter, hairball resolution and cat lover gifts. Visit http://www.allthingscat.com/cat_health_insurance.html for alternative views on cat health care. Which includes pet health insurance,health problems, correct feeding, harmful cat litter and cat lover gifts.

 

Getting Started On The Right Paw: Dog Food

By: Dawn Keadic

Walking down the dog food isle of your favorite pet supply store could be intimidating. You will see row upon row of different brands and types of food. Pet food is now a multi billion dollar industry and pet food manufactures are doing their best to capture your attention. How do you eliminate the hype and find the best food for your dog?

There are several factors to consider when choosing the right food for your dog. Different dogs have different nutritional needs at different stages in their lives. Some things to consider when selecting the food you'll give your dog follow.

Age: Puppies have different nutritional requirements than adult dogs just as human children have different needs than adult people. Senior dogs also have different requirements than younger adult dogs. Make sure that you select a food that is appropriate for your dog's stage in life.

Health: Does your dog have a specific medical condition? If so, the food you choose may need to be partially dictated by that condition. Diabetic dogs need low-glucose foods and dogs with specific allergies (yes dogs can be allergic to all sorts of things, just like people) may require certain foods as well. Your veterinarian can help you choose foods that are appropriate for a dog with a specific medical condition.

Size or Body Type: some dogs are overweight. Some dogs are underweight. Some have a natural tendency to get lots of exercise while others tend to prefer to lie around a lot. There are, of course, small, medium, and large dogs as well as the ultra-tiny "toy" dogs. All of these different types of dogs will have different requirements for the type of food they need as well as how much of it.

Budget: Dog food can be expensive, there is no doubt about it. And where dog food is concerned, the rule really is "you get what you pay for." Low cost generics and store brands will lighten the burden on your wallet, but may not be the healthiest choice for your dog as they are made with cheap ingredients and lots of fillers. You should buy the best dog food you can on your budget to help ensure your dog's nutrition.

Once you take these factors into consideration, you should be able to narrow down your search for the ideal food for your best friend.

About the Author:

Avoid the biggest mistakes you can make in caring for your dog - visit Dog Health & Diseases.

Why Dry Dog Food Might Not Be Best For Your Dog

Dry dog food has been recommended as the best diet for dogs, however this is quite untrue. While dry dog food can be included in your dog's diet in a limited way, most products are very high in simple carbohydrates, relatively low in protein and of inferior nutritional quality. Furthermore, it is very bad for dogs to eat food that doesn't contain natural moisture.

The heavy use of commercially prepared dry dog food by dog owners is a leading cause of rising incidence of canine diabetes and associated pancreatitis. Doing a search on "dry dog food" on the internet will lead to a lot of websites and articles encouraging the use of this product, yet the purpose behind these articles is to sell dry dog food. So how reliable is this information really? The only safe and healthy dry dog food is likely to also be organic and contain high levels of protein and include complex carbohydrates in the form of whole grains. It will also contain dried vegetables and be very low in sodium and not have chemical additives. Even so, organic dry dog food should still be used sparingly. It should not be all that you feed your dog.

To maintain good health, dogs need a largely natural diet. The best diet is a raw diet that also incorporates healthy scraps from the family and raw dog bones. If this isn't possible, feeding your dog commercially prepared organic food from a reputable company can provide most of your dog's nutritional needs. Organic dry dog food can be added to this diet or given your dog as a treat, but should not be the only thing you feed your dog.

We have become a very convenience oriented society. We are busy and often stressed by the demands of earning a living and raising children. It is so much easier to pour food out of a box or open a can (and even then we'd rather have ring-pull cans) and we can fall into the trap of living on autopilot and feeding our animals and our families food that is of poor nutritional value and that can actually be a health hazard. Let's switch back to manual control and pay attention to what we are doing. Our family - both four legged and two legged members - will look and feel better and even if they don't thank us, we'll know who they have to thank.

Lee Dobbins writes for Dog Breeds 123 where you can learn more about dog breeds, dog care and the best dog food for your dog.

 

Pet Beds

 

How do you begin to find the right dog bed for your pet? There are so many dog beds to choose from and it's not like you can take Bowser into the pet store and let him try out the various selections. It is important, however, that you put some thought into choosing a dog bed. Dogs are creatures of habit and these habits extend into sleeping. They like to be comfortable and if the bed isn't right for them, you may have wasted time and money on the dog bed.

There are several things to take into consideration when you are choosing a dog bed. Taking the time to do this will help you choose a dog bed that is a perfect match for your pet. Size does matter for a dog bed. You want a dog bed that is large enough to accommodate your dog but not so large that there is a lot of unused space. One way to tackle the size issue is to measure your dog before you buy a dog bed.

For the measuring process you will want to have your dog stand up and measure him from the tip of his nose to the base of his tail. Then take one more measurement from his shoulders or head to the floor. These measurements will give you the approximate length and width for a flat dog bed. If you will be using a dog bed that has a mattress, you will need to add 12 inches to your measurements.

There are also dog beds that are referred to as "nest and ball-type" beds. If you are thinking about buying this kind of dog bed you will need other measurements. Choose a time when your dog is curled up and measure from the top of his head to the place where his tail meets his hindquarters and then add 7 to 9 inches.

Also pay attention to the shape and style of the dog bed. These factors will be determined by the size of your dog and by his sleeping habits. Will you need a dog bed that can be moved around the house? Think about the size of your dog before you purchase a dog bed. Make sure the dog bed is not to tall for a small dog.

Factor in the climate when. the correct dog bed will keep your warm in the winter and cool in the summer? Will the dog bed be used outside?

Being prepared when searching for dog beds will allow you to choose the best dog bed for Bowser.

By Stephen Pappalau http://www.petsupplies4ypc.com

Dry Food Versus Canned - Your Cat's Health Is In The Balance

If you feed your kitty dry food, you may be setting him up for feline diabetes and urinary tract problems. Your furry friend is an "obligate carnivore," which means that he needs to be getting his protein requirements from a meat-based diet, not a grain-based one. His body is not built to digest plant proteins like corn, wheat, and rice efficiently.

Guess what most commercial dry foods are made of? You've got it--corn, wheat, and rice. And this includes dry foods formulated especially for diabetic cats. Feeding a kitty with this disease a diet high in carbohydrates has been compared to pouring gasoline on a fire and wondering why you can't put it out.

A kitty in the wild eats birds, mice, rabbits, and squirrels, not grains. This meat-based diet contains only three to five percent carbohydrates. Commercial dry foods, on the other hand, contain between 35 to 50% carbohydrates. These excess carbs are stored in your kitty's body as fat. And it's a known fact that fat cells secrete a substance that causes insulin resistance, a factor in type 2 diabetes.

Water is another important nutrient. Most kitties don't drink a lot of water. Why is this? Wild cats, large and small, get most of their water from the animals they eat, so felines don't have a strong thirst drive. This can lead to problems when we feed dry food, which only contains about 10 percent water. If your furball eats mostly dry food, he's probably in a constant state of low-level dehydration.

High-quality canned foods not only contain about 78 percent water, but their carbohydrate level is around three to five percent. This is much closer to what a cat would eat in the wild, and provides the water he needs.

A kitty who eats dry food exclusively may drink more water than one who eats canned food. But when you consider how much water he's getting from both his food and what he drinks, the kitty on dry food is taking in only half the amount of water the kitty on canned food is getting. This is probably one reason why urinary tract infections are so common in kitties.

Kidney disease is one of the leading causes of feline death. A kitty who is chronically dehydrated is more than likely headed for kidney problems. Any feline with kidney trouble needs to be fed a high-quality canned food, not dry food.

It's important to read pet food labels. This isn't as easy as you would think, since these labels don't really have a lot of information on them. You can get an idea of what's in the food, but not how much of each ingredient. For example, if "rice" is mentioned, you can't tell if the food contains a lot of rice or a small amount. You may need to contact the pet food company and ask for a breakdown of the number of calories that come from protein, from fat, and from carbohydrates. If more than ten percent of the calories come from carbohydrates, avoid that food.

Look for a muscle meat as the first ingredient, not an organ meat like liver. Words like "chicken" or "turkey" are preferable to "by-products" or "broth" or "meal." "Meal" is a meat that has been cooked for a long time at high temperatures, which lowers its quality. "By-products" includes yummy stuff like feet, intestines, feathers, and egg shells.

There shouldn't be any grain listed, but since grains are inexpensive, most pet food companies include them as fillers. Corn, wheat, and soy should not be among the first three ingredients, as they cause blood sugar to go up quickly. These ingredients are also common allergens, along with yeast.

Most of the "prescription" diets contain corn, wheat, soy, and meat by-products, and they're also very high in carbohydrates. Be aware that words like "natural," "premium," or "veterinarian recommended" don't mean a lot.

It's unfortunate, but many vets don't know a lot about nutrition. Do your own research to prevent health problems for your kitty.

Note: If your kitty has diabetes and is being treated with insulin, be sure to check with your vet BEFORE making any changes to his diet. Dietary changes can change the amount of insulin your furry friend needs, and too much or too little insulin will cause serious problems or death.

Darlene L. Norris has been owned by many kitties over the years. Now I've combined my love for cats and my life-long interest in herbs and healing at Your Cat Care Guide Information on natural remedies for cats can be hard to find. Stay up-to-date on the latest herbal and homeopathic treatments for your feline friends! Can herbs really help to control your kitty's diabetes? Visit http://www.your-cat-care-guide.com/diabetes.html now to discover a safe, effective natural remedy to lower his blood sugar levels.

Simple Tips to Make Your Dog Urine Cleaning Task Easier

There's probably one thing that's the next worst thing to cleaning dog poop and that's cleaning dog urine. It's not as bad as dog poop but it's definitely a close second!

THE LOOK OF IT

If you're new to keeping pets and you're lucky enough not to know what pet urine looks like yet, we'll certainly be happy to help you identify it. Dog urine is amber-colored; just like how it is with humans dogs excrete their urine – which is composed of waste and protein - from their kidneys.

The color of dog urine may vary depending on your dog's medical history, its age, gender and health. The older your dog is, for instance, the more likely that it contains more protein and less uric acephalia. Because of this, an older dog would cause worse urine odor and stains compared to a younger dog. The permanence of dog urine stains will also depend on the same factors.

Since dog diets are less rich in protein compared to cat diets, you'll probably notice that dog urine odor is not as bad as it is with cat urine.

WHERE TO FIND IT

Before you can proceed to dog urine cleaning, the first thing you'd have to do is look for the territories that your pet dog has possessively marked. You should know by now that more than plain old stubbornness, it's his desire to claim what he deems as his own that's making your dog ignore all your housebreaking lessons and continue urinating at various places in the house.

Pet urine detectors are generally sold in major pet stores; they can be used to easily locate the scene of the crime. Pet urine detectors make use of black light and this causes pet urine to give off a distinct glow. Turn off all lights at home for better results.

As for pet urine detection using the naked eye, simply try to look for spots in your floor or carpet that contain dye damage or color loss.

Refrain from using UV lights because they can cause unnecessary harm to your vision.

Moisture detectors may also be used to look for pet urine but know that they are less effective.

The amount of damage caused by pet urine stain will let you know what type of treatment you should use to clean dog urine. Erroneously assessing the stain level of your dog's urine can cause you to further damage to your floor or cushion.

Always vacuum first to remove pet hair before applying any treatment to clean dog urine.

TYPES OF DOG URINE CLEANING METHODS

Organic – Visit your local pet shop and check out the numerous organic cleaning products they are no doubt selling. Since urine is also organic, it shows to reason that using an organic cleaner as well would work.

Peroxide – Just a little mixture of peroxide and water may do the trick of eradicating dog urine stains.

Window Cleaner – Believe it or not, several pet owners have attested to the fact that spray window cleaners can actually help in cleaning dog urine. Spray the solution on the affected area then blot the entire thing with tissue or towels.

Michael Louis is a dog lover with a passion for knowledge who enjoys sharing his dog cleaning care secrets. Did you fine these dog odor tips useful? Learn to house train your dog at the-dog-stop.com

 

Pet Fish Stores

By Jason Gluckman

Are you looking to buy a pet fish but don't know where to start? Here are some things you should look for in a pet fish store.

Common pet fishes and more. A few goldfish do not make a pet fish store. The real deal should offer you a whole array of aquatic animals that live not only in fish bowls and aquariums, but even in ponds. Look for pet fish stores that sell varieties such as Fancy Guppies, Koi, Betta Fish, Angelfish, Mollies, Oscars, African Cichlids, Puffer Fish, and even Eels, Piranhas, and Sharks. Some even carry frogs, shrimp, and crabs for ponds.

All kinds of fish food. You want your pet fish store to be your one-stop shop for all fish needs, especially food. Remember that different kinds of fishes have different dietary requirements. There are vegetarian, omnivore and carnivore types.

Mollies, for example, eat plant material in the form of flakes, pellets or tablets. Do not buy large quantities of fish food because they tend to lose nutritional content over time. Omnivore fishes, on the other hand, eat almost everything, such as freeze-dried foods, bloodworms, tubifex worms, brine shrimp and krill – all of which you should be able to find in your pet fish store. You also need to be able to buy prepared meat sources such as beef heart for your carnivorous Oscars, piranha and eels. The store should likewise carry liquid and gel diets for baby fishes.

Other essentials. A pet fish store must also carry basic fish tank accessories and furniture, filters, air pumps, cartridges, water Pumps, diffusers, tubing, heaters and chillers, to name a few. If the store does not sell these, it should at least be able to order them for you.

If you think that it's easy having a pet fish, think again. Fishes can actually be quite high-maintenance – they need as much time as you would devote to any other pet. You have to keep its living conditions clean and healthy for it to live a long life.

Pet Stores provides detailed information on Pet Stores, Pet Supply Stores, Online Pet Stores, Pet Fish Stores and more. Pet Stores is affiliated with Free Pet Tags .

 

Sphynx - The Ultimate Hairless Cat

The cat breed "Sphynx" is recognized by The International Cat Association as an official breed and can make a wonderful addition to your family. Unlike the Peterbald cat with it's hairless body and long whiskers, the Sphynx cat has absolutely no hair, making it easy to care for.

The Sphynx is a very loving and mild-mannered cat, almost perfect as a companion. It never has a problem with hairballs or spit-ups which are common with ordinary cats. The lack of hair makes them a perfect cat for those with allergies, but it also makes them vulnerable to sunburn and cold temperatures. The Sphynx rarely grooms itself so it will need regular bathing; at least once a week. If it isn't bathed, the Sphynx will become very oily and begin to show signs of skin irritation. Regular warm-water baths are essential. In the winter, Sphynx cats are very amenable to wearing pet sweaters or other novelty outfits. They seem as comfortable in clothing as people do. This makes this breed a very entertaining cat to own. Many Sphynx owners have several outfits for their cats to wear.

In the winter, you may want to keep a heating pad or electric blanket available for your Sphynx. Many like to curl up next to a radiator or other heat source as they feel the cold much more keenly than ordinary cats. In summer, be careful that your cat doesn't spend too much time lounging in the warmth of the afternoon sun. Sphynx cats do tend to burn - just like we do!

If you are interested in adopting a Sphynx cat, there are hairless varieties bred in several different colors including pink, blue, black, and the very rare purple. You simply cannot find a more loving and agreeable cat to add to your family.

Daniel Walch publishes articles on business, family issues and psychology. See his blog at http://workonlinewithnoboss.blogspot.com/

 

Recognizing Stress in Dogs

When our Newfoundland heard thunder or the Fourth of July firecrackers, he used to tremble and whine and then dash in between my legs to find refuge. In his later years, when he was too old to chase the squirrels in the backyard, he used to plop down on the ground and take puffing breaths in disgust. Our dog was a mild mannered one and he almost never acted out in an objectionable way.

Although all dogs feel stress as well other emotions, some dogs do not act as nicely as a Newfoundland would. Some can act out offensively. It is necessary, therefore, to recognize the ways in which dogs show stress and take precautions before a dog's actions get out of hand.

When my son adopted an adult dog, the dog kept marking everything and anything in his apartment. An extended physical checkup showed the dog to be healthy, but this dog had been moved from home to home, getting rejected by each family. He, therefore, was marking his territory out of stress and for fear of another rejection. This behavior was not good for the dog or his owner, because the owner needed to keep a respectable enough house and the dog could have developed kidney and urinary tract disorders from urinating continuously. My son's dog finally adapted to his surroundings with the help of a trainer and a very patient owner.

As in people, a certain amount of stress in dogs is necessary. Otherwise, how would they let the owners know they need to be taken out on a leash or that they are hungry or that they need attention?

It is important to recognize the symptoms of excess stress in a dog so the owner can reassure or take care of him. Defecation and urination that are not due to physical illness are probably the most objectionable ones, as well as overreaction and aggressiveness.

There are also lesser signs of stress in dogs that are sometimes not evident to an untrained eye but can lead to unpleasant complications if allowed to persist.

One of those signs is nervousness. Nervousness is there when a dog is easily startled or is jumpy.

Another sign is restlessness. If the dog is constantly moving around, fidgeting, and reacting to every single noise, he is restless. Restless dogs also tend to pull on the leash when taken out on a walk or they bite on the leash.

Another sign of stress, on the contrary to restlessness, is freezing. In this case, the dog is so stressed that he cannot move. Some dogs may carry this much further, shutting the outer world totally and living inside themselves just like a depressed human being.

Excess stress in dogs may also show itself in overeating, appetite loss, poor concentration, forgetting what he has learned, incessant noisemaking like barking or whining, and destroying objects.

Some claim that stress in dogs exhibits itself in allergies, unpleasant body odor and bad breath, dandruff and other skin problems, drippy nose, eye color changes, and teeth snapping.

Dogs have complicated skills for communication. The subtlety of their body language and the way they exchange information requires the owners' willingness to observe and recognize the indications of stress, so they can come up with a solution for a happier existence. Human owners owe it to their dogs to be attentive to their well-being.

This article has been submitted in affiliation with http://www.PetLovers.Com/ which is a site for Pets Joy Cagil is an author in http://www.writing.com

 

The Healthy Dog Coat

What you feed your dog directly influences the dog's coat. Dry, complete foods have many advantages:

• They are easily stored

• They are quick and simple to feed

• They are clean

• They provide a nutritionally complete diet

• All the hard work of providing a nutritionally complete diet is done for you

Among the several types of dry food on the market today, a dry food with excess protein has been known to make some dogs aggressive or hyperactive. Take the advice of your breeder and vet if you have concerns.

If your dog has worms, the coat will suffer. It is very important to keep your dog wormed according to your vet's recommendations.

A fit and healthy dog will be recognized by the gleam of his coat. Exercise, walking, free-running and visits to new areas stimulate good health. Each breed of dog varies in their exercise requirement. Regular exercise is essential for keeping a dog in good health and a good coat. Check your dog's feet regularly. In cold weather, check the pads for packed snow, ice or other debris which can cause problems.

The type of bedding and housing your dog has will have a bearing on the dog's coat. A dog constantly lying on concrete will wear the hair off. A dog lying in the grass all the time may get bitten by insects and develop skin irritations. Scratching at the bites can destroy a beautiful coat in a short period of time.

Bedding should be washed regularly with Clorox bleach and a good laundry detergent. Floors should be kept clean. Strong disinfectant can be dangerous if it comes in contact with the coat or the dog licks the disinfectant off the coat.

A regular grooming routine can help you detect problems like runny eyes, bad breath, skin disorders and allergies. Early treatment of these problems is essential. If you see one flea, there probably are many more. Please use a good flea and tick preventative especially if your dog spends a lot of time outdoors. It may be necessary to apply flea and tick prevention year round according to the climate in which you live.

In conclusion the healthiest dog coats are a result of a high quality nutritionally complete diet and regular grooming routines. Genetics can lay the groundwork for a good coat, but diet, exercise and grooming will maintain and/or improve the dog's coat.

Author: Connie Limon. I raise Shih Tzu puppies from top champion bloodlines. Purchase unique dog clothes and topknot dog bows at: http://www.littleguysdogclothesshop.com

Home Made Dog Food Recipes Improve Your Dog's Health

The recent pet food recalls have made many pet owners seriously consider creating their own home made dog food recipes. Cooking your own dog food can be as easy as cooking for your human household if you have the right recipes. By preparing your dog's meals yourself, you can add variety to his diet while optimizing the nutritional value.

Home made recipes are much healthier for your pet than commercial products. Commercially prepared pet foods use low quality meats and are often packed full of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. As you know, diet greatly influences health in humans. It is the same for your pets - their quality of life is improved by the quality of food that they eat. If you don't eat anything full of artificial ingredients, why should your dog?

Do some research and you will find several recipe collections. These will be essential as you begin making meals for your pet. You can find recipes online for free or invest in a good recipe collection or cookbook. Take these recipes to your next vet appointment and have your vet help you choose a few that are appropriate for your dog's breed and nutritional needs. Your vet will also be able to provide you with a vitamin supplement if they decide your dog needs one. Your vet will also be able to help you decide what recipes are best for your dog's size and breed, and help you to determine his daily calorie needs.

Most recipes are composed of equal parts meat, grain, and vegetables. These foods are naturally nutritionally packed. If expense is a concern, you can buy cheap cuts of meat, or ask your produce manager if they have any wilted or imperfect vegetables that they can sell you cheaply. You may even be able to make your dog's food for less money than you were spending on all those cans and bags at your local pet shop!

Think about it: the improved health of your dog will result in less and lower medical bills and you'll be saving money by buying the ingredients and preparing homemade dog food. Doesn't that more than offset the time spent in the kitchen?

Before you take of to the kitchen, download your free homemade dog food report on what does NOT belong into anything your dog eats. Patrick Doherty has been making his own dog food since 2003. Back then he discovered the shocking truth about commercial dog food and has never bought a single can again.

Dog Training Commands - How Do I Keep My Dogs From Barking And Coming In My Yard?

By Sergey Popov

Dog training is not about giving commands and pushing a dog to work hard instead of enjoy life, it's quite the opposite. Your dog should like the process. For me, this training process is a communication. I always speak with my pet when I try to teach him some new commands. It is much easier to live with young ones that have already learned basic commands such as sit, heel, down and other. So, this article will tell you about the basic commands which every dog needs to know.

First you must teach your dog to sit on command. This is very simple. The trainer may hold a small treat or a ball in his hand as a reward and use the reward to lure them into a sitting position while giving the command, Sit. Another way to teach them to sit on command is very simple but take a little more time: each time you see that your dog is going to sit, tell him to 'sit. I used second method to train my dog and it really worked. Later, once they have clearly understood the meaning of the command 'sit you should teach a dog to heel on command. While your pet is walking next to you, give the command "Heel".

Now you know, how you can teach your pet any command you want. It is very easy method that helped me to train my dogs. So take my word for it and try out these method. I promise you won't be disappointed. Want to know obedience training secrets which helped me to stop my dog's behavior problems? Visit my website below for more information.

Dog Training Guide Review

Proper English Bulldog Puppy Care

by Donovan Green

We all love puppies. With so many dog breeds to choose from there is one dog breed that stands out. If you are searching for a puppy that would make a wonderful family pet and that gets along well with other pets and people an English bull dog puppy would make a great choice.

A Sucker For Attention

One standout characteristic that makes an English bull dog puppy great to care for is that they thrive with attention, which makes them ideal companions in loving households, and great for homes with children. These pets are also good with other dogs and cats in the house. In return, the family that gives proper care for an English bull dog puppy will find that their dog is extremely loyal and loving.

Love Relaxing

One concern you might come across while caring for an English bull dog is that with age, they become less interested in running and exercise. Although these dogs are short and stocky it is best to continue with some sort of walk or exercise daily. Keep in mind that English bull dogs do tire easily so they should be given water to drink frequently.

Sometimes You Have To Be Tough

Despite how loving these pets can be, the care of an English bull dog puppy requires a bit of firmness. The flip side to this breed's social attitude is that they will be difficult to deal with if you spoil them. In addition, if this your English bull dog is used to a lot of attention and loses it somehow, such as when parents have a baby, it can act out by snapping or biting. As a result, attention needs to be consistent and firm, to remind your dog of its place in what it sees as its pack.

Cleaning

One of the key things in the care of an English bull dog puppy is to make sure you keep it clean. Dirt can get trapped in the folds of an English bull dog and can lead to bacterial infections. If you do take proper care of your English bull dog puppy, whether it be in cleaning or giving attention you will find that you will have a loving and loyal companion for years to come.

Conclusion

Finally, a properly cared for English bull dog puppy will bring you many years of companionship. Please take into consideration all of the tips that have been provided in this article and become the best pet owner that you can be. You and your pet will have a wonderful experience. I Guarantee it.

About the Author

Need the very best English Bulldog Puppy care info? Get the Top Five Dog Care reviews on the internet today!

Tips For House Training Your New Shih Tzu Puppy

House training a Shih Tzu puppy is one of the first, and one of the most important things, that any new Shih Tzu puppy owner must do. It is easy to get frustrated if you do not understand the basics of this important process, so we have put together a few tips to make the process of house training your Shih Tzu puppy a little easier.

It is vital to establish good toilet and hygiene habits in the Shih Tzu puppy when he is young, since the patterns that are established in those first few months can last a lifetime. When you consider that house training issues are the number one reason why dogs are surrendered to animal shelters, it is easy to see why house training is so extremely important.

In most cases, a Shih Tzu puppy will not be completely house trained until he or she is six months of age. That is because Shih Tzu puppies younger than six months often lack the bowel and bladder control that they need in order to be reliably left alone in the home all day.

Shih Tzu puppies younger than six months should be confined to a single, small Shih Tzu puppy proofed room any time the owner is not available to supervise the animal. The entire floor of the room should be covered in newspaper or other similarly absorbent and cheap material. At first the Shih Tzu puppy will go everywhere and anywhere in the room. As the Shih Tzu puppy gets older and begins to display better bladder and bowel control, the amount of paper used is slowly reduced, until the puppy goes only on the established "toilet" papers. This toilet area will form the basis of later house training.

House training the Shih Tzu puppy – what to do: Provide the Shih Tzu puppy with constant, unrestricted access to the toilet area that has been established. Take the Shih Tzu puppy to the toilet area every 45 minutes when you are at home.

When you are away from home, or when you cannot supervise the Shih Tzu puppy, it is important to confine the Shih Tzu puppy to a small area that has been puppy proofed and covered with newspaper.

It is important to be sure that the toilet area does not resemble anything in the home, such as carpet or hardwood floor. Once the Shih Tzu puppy is used to eliminating on a particular surface, such as grass or blacktop, he will want to eliminate on that time of surface.

Always provide lots of praise when the Shih Tzu puppy does its business in the established toilet area. The Shih Tzu puppy needs to learn to associate eliminating in the established area with positive things like treats, toys and praise from you. It is important to keep a set schedule when feeding the Shih Tzu puppy, and to provide ready access to fresh, clean drinking water at all times. Providing a consistent schedule for feeding will help you learn to anticipate your puppy's toilet needs.

Using a crate can help the Shih Tzu puppy to develop much needed self control. Shih Tzu are naturally very clean animals, and they will try their best not to soil their bed area.

And finally, it is vital to employ patience during the house training process. House training can take as long as several months, but it is much easier to house train right the first time than to retrain a problem Shih Tzu.

House training the Shih Tzu puppy – what to avoid Do not punish or reprimand the Shih Tzu puppy if it makes a mistake. The Shih Tzu puppy will not understand the reason for the punishment, and he may become nervous and agitated. This could set the training back even further.

Do not give the Shih Tzu puppy constant access to food. Keep the Shih Tzu puppy to a set feeding schedule instead of leaving food out all the time.

The Shih Tzu puppy should not be given the run of the house until he has been thoroughly house trained.

House training a new Shih Tzu puppy is not always easy, but it is important to persevere. By exercising patience, and rewarding your Shih Tzu with lavish praise every time he does the right thing, you will have your Shih Tzu puppy house trained in no time at all.

Connie Limon is a Shih Tzu breeder. She publishes a FREE weekly newsletter. A professional newsletter with a focus upon health and wellness for you and your pets. Sign up at: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com

 

Housing a Bearded Dragon

Bearded Dragons need a large enough habitat to allow for a variety of distances from the heat source. A glass aquarium is recommended for security, ease of maintenance, and pet viewing. To avoid the expense of multiple habitats as your pet grows to adulthood, consider using a partition that can be easily adjusted. This way, throughout the life of the pet, you can use a single large aquarium, 55-70 gallons.

The white melamine is a material that keeps the cage very bright which is important for stimulating a dragon's appetite. The light (and the UVB) stays inside the cage rather than escaping through the glass sides of an aquarium. Glass fronts will allow the dragon to check out their world and interact with you.

Where to place the cage?

Find a place, on a stable stand or table, where you feel comfortable and where you can watch anytime your little fellow, against a wall. Try to house your dragon somewhere interesting for him or her, but away from high traffic areas and out of direct sunlight. Do not hide the cage away in a seldom frequented place. Bearded Dragons have a big curiosity. They like to be somewhere where they can watch anytime to their human fellow doing their funny things.

The cage need to be organized with a basking light at one end of the tank, another end should be kept as a cooling area; a hide area of branches and potted non-toxic plants, or a hide box in the tank is also necessary; a rock or log for the basking area. Try to improve the animal environment and remember that the more you do to arrange a Beardie's environment to provide security, the quicker the animal will adjust to its new home and family. Animals that are housed correctly and stress free will remain healthy, eat well, be happier, remain active and alert.

The first days in his new habitat can cause a lot of stress to the Dragon, and because of this they could refuse to eat for some days. To help them accommodate you should:

- Use the first weeks to only watch the dragon and learn the behaviors and feeding habits. Read books on Beardies. Your children will want to play with their new friend. Do not allow anybody to pick up the dragon at this moment.

- For a while you can cover the cage with some milky white panes which won't let the Dragon see to many things outside.

Housing Young Beardies

Babies and small juveniles can be temporally housed in a 10 - 20 gallon aquarium. Young Beardies less than 10 inches in length need to be housed in a 20 gal long aquarium. This will last them for a few months only though as they grow quickly. You can use Profile Extended Storage Bins. The milky white sides of the bins prevent the dragon from becoming terrified in new surroundings and not eating for the first few days, which can become a serious problem.

It is important to judge the correct size of the enclosure. While the dragon is small, it's helpful to keep cage furniture to a minimum, so that they can find their food easily. Crickets can hide in deeply grooved logs or under the furniture making it difficult for a baby dragon to locate food. The dragon won't find them, so will not be able to eat, and the crickets will come out at night and nibble on beardies, who sleep quite soundly, stressing them (this could be serious).

On the other hand, a tank that is too small won't afford the proper temperature gradients the dragon requires.

As the dragon grows they will need to be moved to bigger cages. The dragon having a bigger size, a tank too small won't afford the proper temperature gradients the dragon requires, the dragon can no longer get away from the heat and it can cook and die.

Housing Adult Bearded Dragons

Adult Dragons should be housed in nothing smaller than a 40gal breeder tank, but it is recommended that you house a single adult Beardie in a 55 to 60 gallon aquarium. Dragons need branches or rocks to climb on and a hiding place. Any cage furniture should be carefully secured so it can't fall and injure the Beardie.

Florian Ross is a small lizard expert and a freelancer who developed comprehensive guides to help people succeed with their bearded dragon pet and have your bearded dragon lizard live two times longer. His guides on Bearded Dragons are considered the definitive guides on raising Bearded Dragons. Find out more tips on raising Bearded Dragons Lizards and having them live 2 times longer, with his popular ebook about Bearded Dragons or get a free sample of Florian's bearded dragons caresheet

 

Health Conditions of A Boxer Dog

By Shareen Aguilar

Boxer dogs are fun-loving and intelligent breed of dogs. As much as possible, boxer dogs love to be always around people, and even friendly strangers. Unfortunately for everyone, bad days do come up and boxer dogs are not exempted from it. Sickness is usually the main enemy of boxer dogs, it actually goes out for any type of breed or any living thing here on earth. Thankfully enough, there are ways an owner can partake to battle the bad bacteria out of the boxers' way.

A boxer dog's health heavily depends on the pattern of eating and the food and diet he's eating. When a boxer dog is constantly being fed each day more than what he needs, a deadly health disease called Bloat may occur. To avoid this from happening, make sure that you feed your boxer dog with just the premium brand dog food. Anything spicy shouldn't be fed to your boxer pet. Also, be sure that your boxer dog only gets to feed twice a day which, is already the maximum number. Though bloat may still persist or occur at any given time, another good approach is to allow your dog to digest what he has just eaten before you take him for a walk or a physical activity. Asking for a vet's advice about this health problem is also a good idea.

As a responsible pet owner, you should always keep in mind the important factors that are allowed and the ones that are not for your pet. If you could, before adopting one, make sure that the breeder have presented all sides of the story to you. Ask for the healthy histories of both parents of the pup so you'd also have an idea what to do exactly in case of emergencies.

Don't ever think, just for one moment that boxer dogs are not a good type of dog breed. Don't worry too much about spending on medication in case a health problem occurs. What is important is that you adopt a boxer dog because you want to, and nothing else is greater than offering a love to this wonderful breed of animals.

Click Boxer Dogs to find out more about making your Boxer happy, healthy and obedient.

Pamper Your Pup at an Austin Dog Boutique

Dogs are one of the most commonly owned pets in America. They not only keep your family company but they also keep you safer. Dog owners treat their dog as if they are another member of their family so it comes natural that they want to pamper them with special treats and clothing.

As the years went on dog boutiques have become more and more popular. In the Austin area they seem to be showing up everywhere. These establishments are the perfect way to pamper your family friend and are a favorite for dog lovers because they offer a huge assortment of products that were designed with your pooch in mind.

When you first step foot in to one of these dog boutiques you will be amazed at the amount of products that are available. Of course there are some places that are so expensive that you will look at one price tag and walk out, but there are also places that are reasonably priced and affordable for the average family. Now you don't have to be rich in order to treat your dog like a million bucks.

Although there is a huge assortment of dog clothing including coats, shirts, sweaters, and shoes, the most commonly purchased item at these boutiques are collars. You can find collars for your dog that come in all types of materials including leather, and some that are even diamond studded. You can also purchase a dog collar that is personalized with embroidery for that extra special touch.

While you may enjoy seeing your dog all cuddled up in a warm coat, they will likely enjoy the wide assortment of doggie treats that are for sale at these establishments in Austin. These treats range from nutritious organic treats to different flavored biscuits and meat jerky. Your dog will feel like they are in heaven when you come home with a bag full of goodies just for them.

Written by Dana Gibbson. Find the latest information on an Austin dog trainer as well as an Austin dog boutique.

 

Equine Winter Woes - It's Coming To a Barn Near You

By Ron Petracek

For some horse owners, it is time to pull out the blankets and start getting them repaired for another winter. For others, they had to pull them out a long time ago because they have already seen snow!

For some of us, we will be watching our horses grow a thick and wooly winter coat. This topic brings up an interesting question, is it better to blanket or better for horses to blanket themselves? Well, for some horse owners this question is easy-the horses have to rough it! For others, their precious babies will be wrapped from head to toe.

The fact of the matter is, whatever you decide, you will want to stick with it. If you begin blanketing your horses, you will want to keep them blanketed on days that are around thirty or below. Leaving a blanket on a horse during a warm winter day may make him get too hot. Many horse owners' will pull the blanket off during the day and put it on at night. Also, if you decide to blanket you may need to invest in an extra blanket. The reason for the extra blanket is because if you get a heavy rain and the blanket gets soaked, you are going to need a spare while the other one dries out.

For those horses that are going to have to rough it, they will be just fine too. Horses grow a thick and wooly winter coat for a reason. In the wild they didn't get blankets, so they grew a thick winter coat. This winter coat will fluff up on the cold days, which provides a layer of heat all over the horse's body. Even when it snows, the horse will be okay. The snow will actually make an extra layer of insulation and the horse will be nice and warm underneath the snow layer. The only time you may have some concern for these horses is when the temperature drops below eighteen degrees Fahrenheit. This is when the horse has a harder time keeping himself warm.

You should be concerned for both horses if you have a hard pelting rain. The horse with the wet blanket will need a new one and the horse with a wooly coat may loose some insulation. The coat of the horse may become saturated and he may need to dry out in a warm barn for a while. The horse with the blanket will need a new blanket as the wet blanket will lie his hair down and allow the cold water to make contact with the skin.

Either method you choose, your horses will be just fine. Even weanlings and yearlings will be warm with their own wooly winter coat. You may be concerned for the foals that were born late in the year and they may benefit from a foal blanket and a well-ventilated barn.

Don't forget to keep water troughs broken up if you don't have heaters in them. You will want to insure that your horses have access to plenty of fresh water, as they tend to drink less when it is cold. If you do have heaters in your water troughs, you will want to check them and ensure that there are not any shorts, which may cause them to malfunction. Horses with slightly warm water are more likely to drink more as well.

Stop on by our horse forum at horsechitchat.com and let us know how you solve the winter woes at your place. Or just follow the link in our resource box below. Go ahead new friends are just a click away.

Ron Petracek - Raised in southern Idaho, Ron loves horses and the outdoors. If you would like to join in and learn from the vast resources at our equine forum please visit http://www.horsechitchat.com Looking to buy, sell or trade something equine realted? Just visit our huge network and get 12 sites for Free! Click here => http://www.Click4equine.com