Different Kinds of Swift Binoculars

If you love bird watching and even if you are a casual or professional birder, it would be an absolute necessity to be equipped with a high quality pair of binoculars. One of the more popular names in the market of binoculars today would be Swift Instruments. From this company, come experts in designing and producing bird watching optics that are highly innovative. Here are some of their innovations.

1. Swift Audubon 8.5 x 44 BWCF: Birding Binocular

This type of binoculars was originally designed for a group of world renowned ornithologists. There are 3 Audubon binoculars available today namely the Audubon, Audubon ED and the HHS Audubon. Swift has now designed a fully waterproof version of the Audubon with extraordinary wide field of view, retractable eyecups, multicoated optics and a close focusing distance of up to 3 meters.

2. Audubon ED 8.5 x BWCF: Birding Binocular

Swift has added ED pr Extra Low Dispersion lens which can be found in an air spaced objective system to their original Audubon optics. Its body is made of magnesium which adds strength and has a lowered weight. It has pop up eye cups, rare earth prisms, and extra high eye relief. It has close focusing to under 10 feet.

3. HHS Audubon 8.5 x 44 HCF: Birding Binocular

This pair of binoculars is specifically created by birders especially for birders which commemorates the late Mr. Humphrey, President of Swift Binoculars.

4. Ultra Lite Roof Prism

This is a new type of binoculars that is the first and only of its kind which is made up of two kinds of rubber combined for improved durability, comfort and shock absorption. These features are designed in order to reduce discomfort and user fatigue.

Its features include exceptional new lens coatings, waterproof and gas filled, lightweight, dual density rubber coating, multi layer coated optics and twist up eyecups.

5. Reliant: Roof Prism Binoculars

This is a lightweight roof prism binoculars included with a BaK4phase coated prisms which allows for close focusing from 6.5 ft up to infinity, making this a perfect choice for every outdoor enthusiast. It also features fully multi coated optics, twist up rubber eyecups, easy to use focusing knobs, and a waterproof and foolproof design.

So, these are the 5 different Swift binoculars. Hopefully, these details and information would be able to help you out in making an informed decision as to which pair of binoculars to purchase for your next outdoor trip as you go bird watching.

Althaf Ahmed runs Night Vision Binoculars, a blog that answers people's everyday questions related to business and life. You can read more How to advices at How To Do Anything

Beginner Saltwater Aquarium Tips For Anyone Wanting a Successful Saltwater Aquarium

By Darin Sewell

Setting up a new salt water aquarium is very fun and exciting hobby. It is also a hobby that can be fairly expensive and rushing into it can wind up costing you more then you need to. Below you will see some useful tips that will help you have a successful saltwater tank.

Avoid Small Tanks- As neat as they seem those small aquariums are nothing but trouble. They are not stable, will limit the amount of fish you can keep in your tank and actually require more care then a larger tank. For a good beginner saltwater aquarium stick with something over 40 gallons and under 90 and you will be set!

Learn About The Fish You Like- Knowing what types of saltwater fish you want to keep in your salt water tank will help you properly choose the proper sized tank and filtration system. It will also allow you to eliminate any delicate or hard to keep saltwater fish from your list.

Stay Vigilant In Your Care- Nothing Will wreck a nice clean beginner saltwater aquarium like lack of maintenance will. But you can keep your tank clean by changing 25% of the water every month, cleaning your filters every other week and giving the fish and equipment a visual check every other day or so.

Do Not Over Stock- Cramming to many fish into a saltwater tank is a common problem with new marine tank owners and algae and dead fish are the result. Avoid this by only keeping a medium sized fish per ten gallon of tank water. Over time you can see if you can add more but take it slow!

Do Not Over Feed- Overfeeding your marine fish is just as bad as overstocking the tank. When you feed your fish you should shut off your filters and pumps and add small amounts that the fish eat quickly. Repeat this a few times and make sure no food gets left uneaten or it can rot and cause algae to grow in your beginner saltwater aquarium

To create a stunning and easy-to-maintain saltwater aquarium grab a copy of our Saltwater Aquarium Guide. This illustrated guide will show you step by step how to properly set up your aquarium. It's crammed with tips and secrets that the pros use to create stunning displays! Learn more at http://www.saltwatermethods.com

 

BiOrb - The Aquarium of the Future

There is no getting beyond it. As far as care for the humble Goldfish is concerned boy have times have changed and how have they changed.

OK Hands up those who if asked who would know what a biOrb is? Well the answer would be is that a biOrb is the future as far as a home for our domestic friend the Goldfish is concerned.

No longer content with a simple bowl made from simple glass with the odd throw away from Grannies house clearance lurking in the bottom no sirree, the Goldfish has moved on to bigger and better things and a closer in section of what exactly a biOrb does will give us a clearer understanding of why.

Firstly you have to consider the technology involved here and it has to be said that this is quite impressive. All biOrb Aquariums utilize a unique five -stage system to improve and maintain water quality and clarity. This, as keen owners of tropical fish will be only too ready to Admit is essential in the healthy welfare of our fishy friends.

The optimized water is better and stays clearer for much longer than conventional systems. The five-stage process includes biological, mechanical and chemical filtration along with water stabilization and 100% oxygenation.

One of the other interesting and revealing things about a biOrb is that they are made out of Acrylic as opposed to conventional glass. Now Acrylic is a clear plastic that looks similar to glass but has properties that make it superior to glass. All biOrbs are constructed out of acrylic and this enables the biOrb to be stronger, much lighter and have an overall superior finish compared to similar aquariums made out of glass.

One of the other benefits of acrylic over glass is that acrylic is much more shock absorbent than glass which in turn means that all acrylic aquariums are much more able to withstand the shocks and accidental bumps that occur from time to time without breaking.

But being lighter and stronger is about much more than that.

Being lighter means that biOrbs are approximately 50% lighter than conventional glass aquariums and the knock on effect is that it would be difficult if not impossible for someone to carry a 60 litre for emptying whereas the 60 litre biOrb is within the ability of a strong person to pick up, carry and empty.

Being stronger means that the acrylic biOrbs are up to 17 times as strong as conventional glass aquariums and this considerably decreases the chance of the aquarium breaking. It is a little known fact that one inch thick acrylic is actually bullet proof. The other thing and benefit to acrylic is that it can be drilled and worked with without the possibility of it shattering and becoming completely useless.

Lastly the finish on acrylic aquariums is actually superior to glass aquariums and the added benefit is that if scratched, an acrylic aquarium can be polished and restored whereas its glass counterpart, if scratched remains scratched.

There is a whole lot more to biOrb aquariums and this will be discussed at later briefings.

Stephen Morgan writes regularly on all matters concerning Pets and Leisure and more information on the biOrb and Aquariums in general can be found at http://www.reef-one.com

Bat House Or Bats in the House?

By Jered Wisdom

It happens, but we can resolve your problem. With the ever increasing destruction of natural habitat in Missouri, bats are more and more looking for a new home. The bat's new home may very well be your home. If you have a bat problem it is important to have a professional assist you. Professionals can identify the species of bat and determine if there are babies or pups. It is best to allow the bat pups to mature enough so that they too can leave. If bat exclusion is done on your property before the young bats are capable of leaving then the babies will likely die due to not receiving the nurturing care of their parents. This would not be good for the inside of your home or business, but it would also be bad for the neighborhood.

Unlike insects, some bats only have one or two off spring per year. If a bat colony is destroyed in an area it can take a long time for new bats to replace them. This can be very important in areas near water such as Lake St. Louis, Defiance, Chesterfield, and New Town. One bat can eat as many as 100 insects per hour. Think about that the next time you hear that familiar buzz and feel the dreadful itch of a mosquito. Bats are a "green" way to kill annoying insects.

The bats found in Missouri do not suck or lap blood. Bats do not fly down and land on people or get tangled in their hair. There are bats in Central and South America that require blood, but they make very small incisions on livestock and lap the drops of blood up as they come to the skin's surface.

So why should I be worried about bats living in my house? It is true that bats can have rabies, but very few actually due. Bats can have mites and other parasites too. You would not be happy if your dog or cat brought flees into your home all of the time. One of the biggest problems with bats living in your building is that they are not potty trained. If you look at pictures of caves you can see that some literally have hills of guano within them. Guano can have all sorts of mold and nasty substances growing on it. These things can be very bad for humans.

You may wonder where bats will go once we make them leave your property. Bat houses can be placed on your property, which provide you the advantage of having bats to help with undesirable insects. Bat houses in Lincoln County and St. Charles County Missouri also help offset the loss of natural habitat due to increasing urbanization.

The Wildlife Management Professionals at A All Animal Control can inspect your property and determine how to save your house and the bats. To schedule an appoitment or learn more visit http://www.AAllAnimalControl.com/ The Most Gentle and Complete Wildlife Service or it's Free! Jered Wisdom, President of A All Animal Control of St. Charles County

Understanding Why Your Dog Chews - Boredom May Be the Reason!

By Dr. Cheryl Lane

You love your dog and he's your best friend in the world, not to mention the most adorable creature on the planet (but you're not biased!). But lately you've noticed that he is chewing up everything he can find. Perhaps you started a new job, are working longer hours, or went back to school and now your dog is on his own much more. Your furry friend is left to his own resources to entertain himself throughout the day. Unfortunately, the cost in damages can put a huge dent in your bank account! 

While there are many reasons why a dog likes to chew, one of the most common is that he is simply chewing out of boredom. If you're a parent, or have spent much time around children, then you know that a child is mostly likely to get into trouble when he is bored and has nothing better to occupy his time. He'll find something to do, and it may not be something constructive. Your dog is very similar in this way. He is not looking to get into trouble, nor is he trying to punish you. He is simply doing what comes normally and naturally as a way to pass the time when he has nothing better to do. Chewing gives him a task to focus on and finish. 
 
Dogs are task-oriented creatures. Canines in the wild, such as wolves and fox, are focused on survival, which involves many daily tasks. They are focused on hunting for food, finding shelter, and taking care of their young. Many dogs are bred to do specific tasks, such as herd cattle, assist their owner when bird hunting, or sniff out drugs or other things when trained as police or military dogs.
 
Most dogs, however, are primarily pets for companionship and thus don't have specific tasks that they are required to do for their owners. They don't need to hunt for food, as it is readily provided for them. They have no cattle to herd or drugs to find. So, they need something to do besides lay around all day long. Chewing is a stimulating activity for them, and dogs, just like people, need to be stimulated. They are very smart creatures, and need plenty of mental stimulation. 
 
In addition to mental stimulation, dogs need plenty of physical stimulation to burn off energy. When a dog is bored and has excess energy to burn, he is especially prone to doing some potentially destructive behavior, such as chewing, to alleviate both. So, if your dog is not getting much exercise each day, he will find other ways to burn off the pent up energy. This is fun for him, but may be very frustrating to you! 

Dr. Cheryl Lane has a doctorate in clinical psychology and 15 years experience working in the mental health field. She is also a huge animal lover and has had many pets throughout her life, including a variety of wonderful dogs.

How to Care For a Koi Pond and Make it More Dazzling

By Kao Lee and Greg Garner

Do you know how to care for a Koi pond and make it more dazzling? You probably already have some great ideas. However, even if you already have a Koi pond you can almost certainly take steps to improve it. Not only should you learn as much as possible about caring for the koi fish, but there are a number of ways you can make your pond even more attractive.

One way to give your Koi pond a touch of mystique is to add a fogger. A fogger ionizes the water to form a white fog cloud above and about the water. If you wish, you can find foggers that come with LED lights that change colors. What better way to provide your backyard with the ideal ambiance? A fogger in your Koi pond can give your yard the right look for a wedding reception, a family dinner, a neighborhood get-together, a party with friends, or a moonlight stroll with that certain someone. 

A fountain is another great way to attract attention to your Koi pond. There are hundreds of fountains available in a variety of spray patterns. For nighttime use, you can light the fountain with submersible LED lights. There are even fountains that "dance" to whatever music you decide to play.

An eye catcher for any Koi pond is a waterfall. Probably the best way to incorporate a waterfall into the pond is to install it while you are building the pond. Some people create their own waterfalls for their Koi ponds, but if you have never made one before, you should get ideas from professionals before you build one. You can have waterfalls that are not only beautiful, but incorporate water filters and aerators too. Waterscapes based around waterfalls can be stunning when you know what you are doing.

A necessary tool for keeping your Koi pond clean is a pond vacuum. You can use a pond vacuum to remove dirt, algae, leaves, other muck and debris from your pond. A pond vacuum makes it possible to keep the pond clean without having to drain it regularly. 

If you are like most people, the less time spent cleaning your pond, the more you will enjoy it. One great item for helping you keep the pond clean is a high quality filtration system. Although a filter does remove many large items of debris from the water, its main purpose is to remove deadly toxins. Toxins are usually invisible, and can make your Koi fish become ill or die. Filters also help to filter fish waste, and algae from the water.

There are all kinds of pond supplies. Speak to Koi specialists. They can help you learn how to care for a Koi pond, and your Koi fish. Best wishes on your enterprise.

Koa Lee is a major importer of Japanese Koi Fish. You can find out for information about KOI at http://www.koistop.com

5 Things to Do When You Suspect That Your Cat Has Bladder Stones

By John Paduchak

Feline bladder stones are up there with some of the most uncomfortable, painful, and life-threatening illnesses that can plague cats. Even leaving bladder stones untreated for a couple of days can kill your cat. They don't call the illness a silent killer for nothing.

Whether it's preventing cat bladder stones or calling your vet, there are simple some things that you must do if you even have a minute suspicion that your cat is suffering from the condition. Here are 5 steps to take as soon as you suspect that bladder stones may be bugging your cat.

1. Call your vet. Do not take a wait-and-see approach if you think your cat may have feline bladder stones. If you recognize symptoms such as straining to urinate, blood in the urine, and frequent urination, take your cat to the vet immediately.

2. Decide on a treatment plan. Preventing cat bladder stones is important but you have to address treatment first. Effective treatments of cat bladder stones include removal through surgery or manipulation and dissolving them through diet. Your vet will have all of the information you need regarding treatment.

If your cat has an accompanying bacterial infection, your vet will probably prescribe antibiotics. However, it is up to you if you want to give your cat antibiotics or not. Often a natural remedy like homeopathy will do the trick.

3. Give your cat plenty of water to drink. Meanwhile, make it harder for any more feline bladder stones to form and promote optimal urine flow by giving your cat lots of water. Cat water fountain bowls are very helpful in this regard. Don't give your cat tap water because it can contain harmful toxins. Give him filtered water instead.

4. Reduce stressors in your cat's life. To keep your cat healthy and to help in preventing cat bladder stones, make sure he leads a stress free lifestyle. Some things that can increase stress in your cat's life include moving to a new house, moving furniture around, sharing space with many other cats, and spending a lot of time at home alone.

To reduce stress in your cat's life, try to spend quality time with him each day and designate a certain area of the house as his territory so he feels like he has his own space. If you do have to leave your cat home alone, leave the TV on and leave him with toys to play with.

5. Give your cat a homeopathic remedy. Feline bladder stones are recurrent in nature. If your cat has had them once, he is very likely to have them again. In order to prevent them from recurring, you need to make preventive treatment a part of his lifestyle.

The most effective preventive remedy to date is homeopathy. It is completely natural and safe so you can give it to your cat every day without worrying about it causing side effects. Look for a commercially prepared formula that contains ingredients such as uva ursi and cantharis.

These herbal ingredients are highly effective in maintaining a healthy bladder, urine flow, and urinary tract. They also keep your cat's immune system strong to prevent the formation of bladder stones. For optimal results, give your cat a homeopathic remedy twice a day, every day.

When you even slightly suspect that your cat is suffering from feline bladder stones, take these 5 simple steps. By doing so, you can avoid further complications and unnecessary suffering. Your cat's bladder stones will only come back unless you make preventive treatment a priority.

It's important to get treated quickly but if you only take your cat to the vet for treatment and then forget about the problem until it comes back, you won't be able to assist your cat in healing permanently.

John Paduchak is a pet enthusiast and webmaster of http://pet-bladder-health.com and http://mariespetshop.com. Throughout his life, John grew up on a 140 acre farm in upstate NY and had pet friends of many varieties. Now he currently has 3 cats, freshwater tropical fish, & 4 hermit crabs that he shares with his daughter, Marie. A strong supporter of naturopathy for pets he publishes articles on their care and training.

Pet Care Cat Hairball Prevention And Treatments

By Judy Wellsworth

Pet care cat hairball prevention might alarm the cat owner if it becomes serious enough. The hairball may become stuck in the throat and cause extreme discomfort until the hairball dislodges. Many cats encounter this problem due to excessive grooming. If the hair of the cat is long, it may become more serious than that of a shorthair cat.

Hairballs lodge in the intestines and cause blockage, therefore causing the inability to urinate or have a bowel movement. In this case, administering medications may be required. Pet care cat hairball treatments are sometimes very effective in reducing the blockage and eliminating the hairball problem. Hairballs are sometimes the result of an underlying health problem. If the problem does not clear up with medications, surgery is the other option.

One way to prevent hairballs is with daily brushing to remove loose hair. If your cat is accustomed to grooming by you, the cat will show affection when the job is completed. Regular grooming provides for a healthier and beautiful looking cat. A floor or wall mounted brush allows the cat to groom themselves as they brush up against the grooming brush. Unbelievably, cat's love these devices and will use them regularly throughout the day.

Cats have bouts of vomiting due to hairballs, digestive tract ailments and because of consuming food to fast. If a cat has hairballs, you need to use some form of relief to help loosen the obstruction. Eating grass is one way to clear the obstruction, or a medication from the vet may be required. Some veterinarian's may prescribe a additive to add the cat's water to help dissolve hairballs as a preventive measure.

If you use an herbal remedy with mineral oil, the vitamin A recommended levels would become lower requiring you to give the cat a vitamin A supplement. This happens because mineral oil depletes the vitamin A from the cat's diet. Pet care cat hairball prevention and treatments never really take care of the entire problem with hairballs, but it does make the hairball problem more manageable.

Some signs that the cat has a hairball problem are vomiting of hairballs, constipation or hard stools, unkempt fur and content hacking or coughing. The lack of appetite usually happens when the hairball problem becomes serious. If the problem is serious and causes weakness and depression, the cay may need immediate surgery to relieve the intestine of the blockage. In most cases, if a hairball problem becomes this severe, a possibility of death may result if proper medical treatment is not received.

One home remedy, and sometimes the cat will just do this themselves if you leave the butter dish open, is giving the cat a little butter a couple of times a week, which will lubricate the intestinal tract, helping to eliminate hairballs. Pet care cat hairball problems need correction as soon as the problem becomes noticeable, before it becomes more serious. Plan ahead if you have a longhaired cat as well as a shorthaired cat.

You can also find more info on Cat Sneezing and Common Cat Health Issues. Aboutcathealth.org is a comprehensive resource to find more information about cat health.

Wool Chewing and Spraying - What You Should Know About This Common Cat Health Problems

By Paul Kramer

Some cats are wool chewers. This is a loose description that encompasses cats who not only chew wool but chew towels, socks and blankets as well. Most chewers are either Siamese or part Siamese and they start chewing as soon as they have teeth.

The easiest solution is to remove temptation by either putting these possessions away or by not letting your cat into areas where they are kept. It is just about impossible to stop a wool chewer from chewing.

And sometimes he will chew on himself. Some cats, and not just Siamese, suck on their tails muck like a baby sucks on his thumb. He may also nurse on himself or other adult cats.

You can break him of this habit by applying a bitter tasting liquid to his tail and other areas where he chews. If you let him chew on his tail unchecked, he could cause mutilation that part of the tail is chewed off.

Spraying is an instinctive natural act whereby cats squirt urine on vertical surfaces, generally to mark territory. It is most common in an unaltered male who will spray to attract females and warn off other tomcats.

Unaltered females spray to a lesser extent, usually to attract tomcats. There is really nothing that you can do to stop an unaltered cat from spraying. A neutered male or a sprayed female may not spray for the same reasons as an unaltered cat, but could spray on occasion.

If you move, change your routine or go on vacation, your altered pet may chow his frustration by spraying on your furniture. Other things that might induce him to spray are the mating seasons, spring and fall, when he can hear and smell unaltered males and females mating.

Another common reason altered cats spray is because you have acquired one cat too many, or one of your cats has a new litter of kittens. They spray because they are stressed. This is an instinctive reflex on their part and you should not punish them.

They will stop spraying when the kittens go to their new homes, or when, in time, they have accepted the addition of the new cat. If spraying continues to be a problem, contact your veterinarian for advice.

Want More Information And Discount On Pet Medications? All You Have To Do Is Click http://www.CallPetMeds.com Now!

 

Ringworm - How the Experts Carefully Identify and Treat This Common Cat Health Problem

By Paul Kramer

Scratching, biting and excessive washing of his coat can signal a number of different skin problems for your cat, including the stubborn condition of ringworm. Oddly enough, ringworm is not caused by a worm at all, but by a parasitic fungus.

It can be transmitted through contact with infected animals, soil or even humans. Kittens, pregnant queens and frail and elderly cats are most susceptible to the disease. Signs of ringworm on your cat can include a few broken hairs around the muzzle or ears as well as small, usually round, bald patches that later become crusty.

Although most patches are found on the head, ears, paws and tail, they can appear anywhere on your cat's body. If you have an indoor/ outdoor cat, or a multiple cat household, you might mistake the first signs of ringworm for a scratch or bite inflicted by another cat.

If you suspect your cat has ringworm, you should take him to the veterinarian. The disease is usually treated with pills and/ or topical treatments. For an indoor cat, you should also vacuum the cat's living quarters and wash his bedding, toys and other things that might harbor the fungus.

Treating the environment obviously is impossible with the indoor/ outdoor cat or in totally outdoor cat colonies. Although some cats are carriers of ringworm, many develop natural immunity to the disease.

Since the carriers do not show any signs, it may be very difficult to track down and treat the cause of the recurring ringworm in a multiple cat household. Cats can transmit ringworm to humans and dogs, and humans and dogs can transmit the disease to cats.

If your cat is infected with ringworm, extreme care should be taken with handling him. If possible, isolate him until the scabs fall off the affected area, taking with them the hairs that contain the spores.

Want More Information On Ringworm Diseases? All You Have To Do Is Click http://www.CallPetMeds.com Now!

Stud Tail and Dandruff - What You Should Know About This Common Cat Health Problem

By Paul Kramer

Stud tail is co called because it is generally found in the unaltered tomcat, although it can affect females. It is the build up of a brown secretion caused by the release of oils from the gland on the upper surface of the cat's tail, near the base. You may also notice swelling, blistering and hair loss in this area.

This condition can be controlled easily by washing and completely drying the affected area on a regular basis. If the skin is red and sore, your veterinarian may prescribe a balm to apply. As long as your cat remains unaltered, he will continue to secrete excessive oil from the glands at the base of the tail so vigilance is necessary to keep him comfortable.

What about dandruff? Just like you, your cat may develop dandruff, and for just about as many reasons. If he is light colored, you may not notice the dandruff, but if his coat is dark, you will be able to see the dandruff clearly.

In either case, simply petting or brushing him will bring the dandruff to the surface. Do not panic if you see a small amount of dandruff. This is normal because the skin changes and is shed periodically.

However, if the condition is severe, have him checked by the veterinarian. Excessive dandruff can be associated with almost any skin condition. Altered cats and older cats tend to have more dandruff than unaltered and younger ones.

The natural process of aging will probably cause your cat to gradually develop a thicker and drier coat and scaly skin, which might cause dandruff. Feeding a complete and balanced diet with omega 6 and omega 3 fatty acids may be helpful.

You will probably not be able to cure the dandruff completely but you may be able to control it. Besides washing and drying the affected area regularly and then combing your cat's tail thoroughly, there is little you can do to treat stud tail.

You will easily be able to detect dandruff on your dark colored cat. However, if your cat has a light colored coat, you may have to inspect it more closely. Either way, regular combing of his coat should help this skin condition.

Want More Information And Tips On Pet Meds? All You Have To Do Is Click http://www.CallPetMeds.com Now!

Free Pet Care Services With House Sitters

By Peter S Watson

When one decides to go away whether it is for business or pleasure, one of your first priorities is to organize a friend or family member to come and take care of your pets. If you will be away for a short period of time, this is usually not a problem, however the longer the period you will be away for the harder it is to get someone to take care of your pets like walking them, feeding, cleaning, playing etc.

If you plan on being away for longer than 1 week, you would almost certainly have to drop your pets of to a kennel, minder or pet resort (if you have dogs) which can be quite expensive. Another option is to hire the services of professional pet minders who will visit your house everyday to clean, walk and feed your pets or any other request you have. This all comes at a price!

As a pet owner you would be well aware of the stress involved when having to take your pets away from their homes. Placing your pets in unfamiliar territory along with an unfamiliar face is not the ideal situation.

The ideal situation would be to arrange a professional house sitter to manage not only your pets during your absence, but to also manage your property, lawns, gardens and mail while giving you the comfort and security you deserve and best of all it's FREE!

House sitters will complete all of the agreed tasks completely free of charge and all they require in return is free accommodation.

When selecting a house sitter, make sure you narrow your selected list down to at least 3. From there you can arrange to meet them at your home and get a feel for them and also see how they are around your pets. Usually your gut instinct will tell you if they are right for the job. Another good idea is to arrange a contract prior to them moving in with required duration, duties and also a bond.

For further information on House sitters and House sitting visit http://www.housesittersaustralia.com.au

Feline Heartworm Disease and Acne in Cats - What You Should Know About This Diseases

By Paul Kramer

Feline Heartworm Disease or FHD is rare, but can be life threatening. It is caused by parasites entering the bloodstream through the bite of an infected mosquito, and the parasites then migrate to the heart and pulmonary arteries where they mature.

All cats are at risk, but those with exposure to mosquitoes are at highest risk. Warm, humid climates are ideal condition for heartworms. And your cat does not have to go outside to be bitten by mosquitoes. In fact, studies indicate that indoor cats may be more likely to pick up an FHD infection.

Unfortunately, the symptoms of FHD in cats are vague and can differ markedly from the canine version. Researches believe cats with heartworms may be misdiagnosed with feline asthma, or may develop asthma as a consequence of FHD.

Aside from asthma, other signs include weight loss, weakness and collapse. At present there is no definitive test for FHS in cats, although blood tests may be helpful. A preventive treatment for heartworm disease is available from veterinarians.

Surprisingly, cats can suffer from acne. It is generally found under the chin and around the mouth. This was originally called Aby Chin because it was first diagnosed in the Abyssinian breed as it readily showed up on their white chins. Later it was learned that any cat can get acne.

It is a good idea to examine the chin area to see if you can see or feel slightly crusty bumps. These are easily seen on white or light colored cats and look like coffee grains. Wash the affected area with a mild soap, rinse thoroughly with warm water and dry, dry, dry.

Since acne thrives in damp places, you can help the drying process by rubbing cornstarch on light colored cats or fuller's earth on dark ones. Causes of acne may range from eating from plastic dishes to food becoming embedded in the chin.

Since cats continue to eat, the possibility of them having acne is ongoing, but a careful check on the chin and weekly washings can keep your cat pimple free. If there are any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge, contact your veterinarian.

Want More Information On Heartworm Treatment? All You Have To Do Is Click http://www.CallPetMeds.com Now!

How to Select Koi

By Kao Lee and Greg Garner

Do you know how to select Koi? Whether you wish to stock a Koi fish pond for your own enjoyment, raise Koi for sale, or raise them to compete, you need to know the best means of picking Koi to get the best results.

When picking Koi, you should know that a nice fish can be fairly expensive. Where even non-champion fish can cost hundreds of dollars, prime Koi could cost $1600 or more. To save money, your best bet is to learn to pick choice Koi while they are still young. One thing to remember when selecting these fish is that the colors become darker and sharper as the fish mature. For example, if a Koi has a gray marking while young, that color will become blacker later on, pinkish colors usually become darker reds, and the scales also become darker and more distinct.

One thing you should look for is the shape of the fish. A long skinny Koi is probably not as valuable a fish as one with a nice bulky oblong shape. The scales on the fish should also be clear and distinct, in a uniform pattern. The best show fish tend to have nice sharp color patterns, and darker colors tend to make a Koi fish more popular and valuable as well. Usually, female Koi are more popular than male.

Check for previous injuries before purchasing any Koi. Scars detract from the beauty of the fish, and lowers their monetary value considerably. Also look for torn fins, swelling, discoloration, or any other abnormalities or imperfections.

There are several classifications for Koi, and you should learn what to look for in each type. Remember that Koi fish, as with people, are each unique. You would be hard pressed to find two fish with exactly the same markings. Each type of Koi has varied different colored patterns. A Tancho, for example, is an all white Koi fish with a red circular marking on the head. Generally, the rounder and darker the red marking on the head, the more valuable the fish.

The Ogon are a very popular type of Koi. They differ from most other Koi in that they have a single basic color, somewhat metallic in appearance. Such fish should have good quality uniform color. A Platinum Ogon, for instance, should be a nice white color all over, without discolored patches or an off-white color. Other Ogons may come in a variety of colors, but the uniform color throughout is the important thing to look for.

If you intend to place Koi in a Koi pond for your own pleasure, you should consider a variety of Koi types. However, if you plan to breed Koi to sell, you should purchase the best breeding parents you can. Even with the best breeding parents, all the offspring won't be the highest quality, but the better the parents, the greater the chance of producing quality offspring becomes.

Koa Lee is a major importer of Japanese Koi Fish. You can find out for information about KOI at http://www.koistop.com

Best Dog Friendly Beaches in Canada

By Darlene Siddons

In Vancouver there are three dog friendly beaches one is at Spanish Bank West and they allow dogs in an off leash area, this is advertised for well behaved dogs, so if you know your dog doesn't fall in this category, I guess they are not welcome.

Then there is Sunset Beach located between Thurlow and Bute Streets, this is also an off-leash area for well-behaved dogs, it is an area south of the nearby Vancouver Aquatic Centre, because it being close to the centre it has good parking which is convenient.

The last Vancouver beach is Gonzales Beach; which is actually in Victoria, they state that the dogs always need to be supervised and controlled by the owner, they have limited off leash times. Dogs can only be off leash between September 1 and May 31 and that is 24 hours a day. No dogs are allowed on the public beach from March 1 to April 30 each year because of the annual Brant migration. Then, again they are not allowed on the beach anytime from June 1 to August 31.

Victoria also is a city that is attempting to make it a dog friendly environment for the dogs and their owners. They have started a program that is called Paws in Parks, so now Dallas Road and Gonzales Beach is not the only areas that allow off leash areas.

There are now six more parks with off leash areas and they are: Alexander, Arbutus, Oswald, Redfern, Topaz and Vic West and after review of the success of these they are considering more. The parks that are under consideration are Pemberton Park, Banfield Park, Songhees Hilltop Park and Fisherman's Wharf Park, so if you are traveling and/or living close to these parks check and see if the off leash is in effect yet.

Rainbow Park in Whistler, Canada there is an area for dogs to actually swim and play off leash at Barking Bay dog beach, it is located south of the park and they can frolic to their hearts content at this beach especially set aside for your pets and the owners.

Kokanee Creek Park in British Columbia there is a dog beach located by the boat launch area; which is at the northeast side of the park. They do have definite rules that are strictly enforced so be sure and know what they are. They need to be on a leash at all times and are not allowed on the beach areas or park buildings; you are responsible for cleaning up after them and the proper disposal of it; again they want only well behaved pets and owners need to be aware of hazard of taking pets in the backcountry as there are bears.

Darlene has been an active traveler and most of it was done as a single traveler. She was traveling alone long before it was a popular thing to do for women and to make the story even more interesting she is a Polio survivor and uses a walker and a small scooter to be mobile when she travels. She, needless to say, is a Specialist in Traveling with Disabilities and can personally assist you in all of your mobility traveling needs. She knows the right questions to ask, to get the right answers. Of course she can assist mobile and active customers with the same expertise. as she is a Personal Travel Specialist also. Darlene Siddons Travel

Traveling to Hilton Head With Your Pet

By John Stapleton

When you are traveling to Hilton Head, South Carolina with a pet, you will want to be sure to find a pet friendly place to stay. The best way to do this is to choose a pet friendly Hilton Head rental that will be happy to accommodate your pet.

Many people today are taking their dogs with them when they go on vacation. Hilton Head has many nature trails where you can exercise and have fun with you dog. There are also dog parks in this area where both of you can enjoy a good time.

If you choose a pet friendly Hilton Head rental, you do not have to worry about leaving your dog if you decide to go out for dinner or for a game of golf. You can keep your dog in the rental while you are away, unlike a hotel where you cannot leave your dog alone in a room when you are not there.

Pets get anxious when they are away from you and, if you are like most pet owners, you get a little anxious when you are away from your pet. Leaving your dog in a kennel used to be the only option when you wanted to get away, either for business or pleasure travel. Now, however, an increasing number of hotels and rental properties are pet friendly. They will allow you to take your pet with you when you go on vacation and ease the burden of having to leave your dog in a kennel where your pet is likely to be nervous and uncomfortable.

Choosing a pet friendly Hilton Head rental instead of a hotel is the best option to give you the freedom that you enjoy at home with your pet. Once your pet gets used to the new surroundings, it will become his home away from home. You will not feel so confined in a hotel room and both of you will enjoy the luxury of travel while not having to sacrifice the things that you may enjoy doing when you visit Hilton Head.

If you are planning to take your pet on a trip to Hilton Head, inquire as to a Hilton Head rental that is pet friendly and will allow your dog. In some cases, you may have to pay a small additional fee, but this is usually much less than you would have to pay to board him in a kennel. Taking your pet on vacation keeps both of you in the same routine and gives you both a break away from home. Fortunately, you will have no trouble finding a pet friendly Hilton Head rental that is right for both of you.

John Stapleton is an author and consultant. More information can be obtained by going to http://www.destinationvacationhhi.com

Carmel by the Sea Has Gone to the Dogs

By Celiasue Hecht

When your dog is begging for a getaway what better place is there to go for a doggone good time than Carmel by the Sea, California, acclaimed as the most dog-friendly town in America.

Located a few hours south of San Francisco, the town of Carmel offers visitors many fun pet activities and accommodations for four-legged friends and their owners.

Here are eight dog friendly activities to enjoy with Fido and Fluffy...

l. Carmel beach is where all the dogs roam free off leash... It is located right at the foot of Ocean Avenue, and is officially called Carmel Town Beach. There are dogs galore splashing, swimming, running and chasing one another here. At some designated times, there are also dog clubs, with a pack of daschunds, or other breeds of dogs having their fun in the sand.

2. Carmel is where the art is.... Many of the art galleries in Carmel welcome pets.

The Blue Dog Gallery has paintings of blue dogs by artist George Rodrigue ....

3. Pet stores where dogs rule and drool.

Diggidy Dog, a dog and cat boutique, is a really fun pet specialty shop that features baked goods, clothing, costumes, toys, treats and so much more that your dog will be wagging their tail and want to go back for more. Located at Mission and Ocean Avenue, across from the Carmel Plaza.

The Raw Connection at 26549 Carmel Rancho Blvd. (near the Barnyard Shopping Center) is the place to go for raw pet food, They have freezer cases filled with yummy organic and healthy delights and aisles filled with freeze dried, canned, dry and dehydrated foods, and supplements. Call 831-626-7555 for more info about classes, training and events.

Chateau le Paws at 244 Crossroads Blvd. takes pet pampering to a whole new level. This is an upscale dog boutique offering art, bakery, beds, books, bowls, clothes, collars and pillows for cats and dogs. They also offer grooming services.

4. Only in Carmel is there Carmel Canines, a mobile salon and health spa for pooches which offers dogs manicures and pedicures for four legged furry creatures.

5. Dine together

The Cypress Inn owned by Doris Day welcomes well behaved dogs in the lobby to eat breakfast with their owners. They also offer daily Doggie Cocktail Hour in the Library bar. The Cypress Inn displays a "Dictionary of Dogs" near the fireplace just in case you want to read about your pampered pooches breed.

Cypress Inn (800/443-7443)

And there are a variety of choices of restaurants where Fido can sit beside you outside and Forge in the Forest even has a menu for your four legged companions.

The Forge in the Forest Restaurant (831/624-2233)

6. A few places to rest you and your puppy's paws

The Vagabond House Inn offers doggie amenities including a portable doggie bed, take home toy, treats, bowl and scarf. Breakfast is delivered to your door in the morning, plus there is a wine and cheese tasting in the afternoon in the lobby. Stay in a two room suite with a queen bed, couch, writing desk, and fireplace. Plus, a refrigerator, coffee maker and dining table. The luxurious bathroom has full shower and separate tub, and Elemis bath amenities. Some rooms are street level making it easy to take your dog in and outside.

http://www.vagabondshouseinn.com

Svensgaard Inn offers European ambience, 35 guest rooms and suites, half of them are pet friendly, some rooms have fireplaces and spa tubs, and kitchens. There is onsite parking which is very important in Carmel. Coffee, tea, hot chocolate and cookies are available in the lobby in the afternoon and a nice cold breakfast delivered to your room by 8 am. There is a sparkling pool as well as a grassy courtyard and pet amenities galore including the barking treat jar in the lobby.

http://www.innsbythesea.com/svendsgaard

Hofsas House is a Bavarian-style, four-story house built on a hill with ocean views. It is a family owned, operated and oriented inn with artistic murals in keeping with the Carmel community. There are 38 rooms, 19 are pet friendly. Dogs are allowed by the pool with their owner. There is a meeting room available for 25-30 people for business retreats, women's groups, knitting groups, sewing groups, quilting groups and the meeting room has a fireplace and full kitchen. An inn with a sense of what Bavarians call Gemutlichkeit. Carrie is the innkeeper.

Happy Landing Inn is an adorable and quaint inn a few steps from the pet friendly Carmel beach.Two women entrepreneurs, Dawn and Diane, are the innkeepers. There are seven rooms and all of them are pet friendly. Breakfast is served at your door around 8:30.

7. Don't forget to visit the famous Fountain of Woof at the Carmel Plaza on Ocean Avenue where your pooch can slurp up. Call 831-624-1385 for more info.

8. And if your dog wants to become a star, be sure to get in on the casting call for the next Official Carmel Dog Calendar. Call 800-550-4333 for more info.

CeliaSue Hecht is a published writer, editor and publicist who assists business owners in promoting their products and services. She has been published in more than 40 publications (Top 100 newspapers and national magazines) and has obtained media coverage for authors and entrepreneurs. She offers a range of services, from publicity strategy to press release writing and email newsletter campaigns. (Her blog, Travel She Wrote - http://celiasue.wordpress.com - offers free tips and advice for pet owners and pet businesses as well as traveling with dogs tales. For more information, call 702-225-8206