The CHIHUAHUA - A Faithful Companion

Chihuahua puppies (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The Chihuahua is the smallest breed of dog in the world and is named after the state of Chihuahua in Mexico, where it was discovered in 1850. Some scholars believe the Chihuahua to be descended from Chinese hairless dogs-who may have crossed over from Asia to Alaska on a land bridge before continental separation created the Bering Strait and bred with the ancient Techichi dog, creating the modern-day Chihuahua. But due to the lack of archaeological proof to support this theory, it was later believed that Chihuahuas were brought to Mexico by settlers from Spain. The American Kennel Club registered its first Chihuahua in 1905.

There are two types of Chihuahua. One of which has a smooth, soft glossy coat, which covers the whole body except head and ears. The other version has a long coat with an undercoat. This type of coat could be curly or flat. The Chihuahua falls under the AKC's toy category. Generally, their height is 6 to 10 inches at the shoulders and their weight is 2 to 6 pounds. Chihuahuas come in various colors, from plain white to solid black and spotted, or other colors like silver, blue or gray, chocolate, fawn or tan, tricolor-chocolate, blue or black with tan or white markings, merle and brindle, and each of the colors varies in tone and shade. Chihuahuas are mostly known for their small body and large, sharp ears. A Chihuahua's nose is usually short and slightly pointed. They have lean jaws and cheeks and blue, mole, or chocolate colored noses. However, a pink nose is permissible in blonde Chihuahuas. The tail is either up or curled in a loop with the tip of it slightly touching the back.

Many Chihuahua owners often are confused by the variety of dog foods available on the market. They often complain that their pets suffer from intestinal disorders, itching, dandruff, allergies, etc. As a responsible Chihuahua owner, you should provide your pet with meals containing proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, fatty acids, and minerals. A proper balance of these components will not only keep the dog healthy and happy but it will also save you from the hassles and frustration of frequent vet visits and costs. Dry foods usually help to keep the dog's teeth clean and also, help to work his jaws. This kind of dog food is easily digestible. Aside from a few premium quality dog foods, you should avoid branded food items or commercial dog food. 

They contain preservatives, additives, artificial colors, non-nutritive residues, etc. and can adversely affect your dog's health. The chihuahua's diet also must contain vitamin and mineral supplements in balanced concentrations. You can safely give your Chihuahua a normal lamb and rice combination. This not only takes care of the nutritional needs of your Chihuahua, but it also reduces the risk of allergies and other health disorders. Due to lack of proper nutrition, Chihuahuas can suffer from vomiting, belching, loose stools, gassiness, and stomach ache after meals. Some foods commonly enjoyed by humans are dangerous to Chihuahuas like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, macadamia nuts, alcoholic beverages, salmon (sometimes triggers allergies), etc. Also, do not overfeed your Chihuahua. Obesity is dangerous. In order to give your Chihuahua a long, happy, healthy life, you need to be conscious about what you are feeding it.

Chihuahuas are prized for their devotion, ferocity, and personality. Their curious nature and small size make them easily adaptable to a variety of environments, including the city and small apartments. Chihuahuas are usually intelligent and independent by nature. Some dogs are bright and can learn quickly, while others are more stubborn and obstinate. Some are outgoing and friendly towards strangers while others are withdrawn and aloof. Whatever your Chihuahua's attitude now, your love, care, and training can change your dog completely, from an unruly, out-of-control dog to the best dog in the neighborhood. Chihuahuas, in general, are delightful characters and are lively, entertaining, and very loyal. They crave for constant love and attention from you and your family members. Chihuahuas are not well-suited as small children's pets because of their size, temperament, and tendency to bite when frightened. It is recommended that children be school-aged or older before adding a Chihuahua to one's home. Also, many Chihuahuas focus their devotion on one person, becoming overly jealous of that person's human relationships. This can be nipped in the bud through proper socialization. Chihuahuas also tend to have a clannish nature, often preferring the companionship of other Chihuahuas over other breeds of dogs. Chihuahuas seem to have no concept of their own size and may fearlessly confront larger animals, which can result in injury.

Chihuahuas get sick from parasites, viruses, bacteria, protozoa, and fungus. In some cases, these diseases and infestations are fatal unless caught early and treated. Sometimes they sow the seeds of death or debilitation years down the road by causing chronic illness or damaging organs. Fortunately, veterinary researchers have developed drugs and treatments that reduce the occurrence and effects of many diseases and parasites, but they do not eradicate the diseases, they only hold them at bay. Immunizing Chihuahuas against disease is a simple process. Pet owners may even take vaccinations for granted. It is the most routine procedure performed in veterinary clinics. The major viral diseases are rabies, distemper, parvovirus, hepatitis, parainfluenza, and coronavirus. The major bacterial diseases are Lyme, leptospirosis, and kennel cough. Diseases like Rabies, Lyme, and Leptospirosis can also infect people.

Chihuahuas can also get sick from debilitating diseases like arthritis and hip dysplasia but are most common in older Chihuahuas. Chihuahuas are also very susceptible to hypoglycemia and diabetes. Before trying any treatment options, you should get an accurate diagnosis of your Chihuahua, which is usually done by a physical examination combined with x-rays performed at your veterinarian's. Treatment and prevention are personal choices but involve several options when considering your Chihuahua's health. You can either go for modern-day medicines or homeopathic treatments.

Proper Chihuahua health care also involves grooming. You will often notice many Chihuahuas with dirty, rough or greasy hair, their nails too long, teary eyes, and dirty ears. Obviously, these Chihuahuas are not well-groomed. Remember, a well-groomed Chihuahua not only looks good, but he feels good from within as well. This paves the way for better health for your Chihuahua. Incredibly enough after grooming, chihuahuas can look very different and seem to have more pep. Ticks, fleas, mange and other parasites often breed on a Chihuahuas coat. With regular grooming, you can avoid this.

Physical exercise is important for your Chihuahua. Puppies, adolescents, healthy adults, and senior pets alike need lots of regular daily workout sessions to maintain their health. The type of exercise depends on the age and fitness of your Chihuahua and your own lifestyle. Chihuahuas are adaptable and are happy to play Frisbee in the park or take long walks in the neighborhood. Daily exercise is recommended unless the weather is especially dangerous or a medical problem limits your Chihuahua's activity. If there is a medical problem, consult your veterinarian about exercise limitations. Keep in mind that obese Chihuahuas and those with heart and lung diseases may have a problem, and be sure to consult your vet before starting a new regime.

You know your pet best and can often notice subtle early warning signs of illness that someone else may not detect. If you observe symptoms or other signs that worry you, call your veterinary immediately. The safest approach would be to have your pet examined before it is too late. Although figures often vary, as with any breed, the average lifespan for a Chihuahua is approximately 8 to 18 years of age.

Although an owner needs to take great care of a Chihuahua it will be your best friend and faithful companion for their life. And will give the owner great joy if taken care of properly.

By Penny Taylor - Article Source: EzineArticles

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Is A RAW FOOD Diet Right For Your PIT BULL TERRIER Dog?

Poncho the Pit bull mix kissing his owner (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Many Pit Bull owners are choosing to feed their pets a raw food diet rather than use the commercially formulated mass produced feeds. Others have never heard of the raw diet, also known as the bones and raw food diet, but are seeking more information about what this type of diet can offer their pet.

The raw diet entails feeding your Pit Bull or other pet mainly raw meat and meaty bones. The raw meat diet also includes some vegetables be added in as well. Leafy greens mixed in with the raw meat helps give your Pit Bull a nutritional meal. As an added bonus, finely chopped garlic can be added as a natural way to give added protection against fleas.

In the wild dogs are omnivores, which means they eat both meat and plant material. If you choose to try the raw diet, you’ll need to be sure and balance his diet by adding some vegetable material into each meal. Some owners who are fans of the raw diet like to add additional proteins like cottage cheese or eggs into the meat and veggie mixture.

It has been reported that dogs on the raw diet tend to lead healthier lives. Proponents of the raw diet say that canine allergies, as well as dysplasia and a wide range of other canine ailments, are mainly due to the commercial dog foods with their non-meat proteins and additives. The commercial market has also been accused of using the grain content in their feed simply because they are cheap fillers, and aren’t there for the true benefit of the pet.

Those who choose the raw diet also say that they feel they are giving their dog the diet that nature intended, and that commercial dog food kills any real benefits of the proteins in the cooking process. This, in turn, they say, can cause problems to the animal’s immune system and cause other health-related problems.

Raw diet advocates also state that the commercial dog food makers put special additives into the food which makes the food more appealing to the dogs so they get addicted to the commercial foods.

Of course, the commercial feed makers state that there’s no difference in cooking a dog’s food as there is to cooking a human’s food and that the nutritional value is still there. Commercial feed makers claim that dogs have very sensitive digestive systems and that the raw food diet can cause vomiting and diarrhea.

As a responsible pet owner, it’s up to you to decide on how your Pit Bull gets his nutritional needs met. If you have concerns about your Pit Bull’s nutrition, or before you change your Pit Bull’s diet, talk to your veterinarian. Your veterinarian can give you more information on the raw diet, as well as recommend any changes which may need to be made.

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What Are Common Signs of DOGS with Hypoallergenic Problems?

Photo: Wikimedia

Dogs that have allergies show many signs including watery eyes, coughing and sneezing, excessive scratching and biting, vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, and moodiness. When your dog is suffering from allergies, you may notice one or more of these symptoms. Learning what causes these allergies is the first step toward treating your dog and preventing further attacks. 

Many allergies that dogs suffer from are caused by insects such as fleas and ticks, or by parasites. When you bring your dog home from a breeder or from a shelter or pet store, schedule an appointment with a vet as soon as possible. Make sure the dog has all of its shots and that is has been dewormed. This will prevent parasites from causing an allergic reaction in your dog. While you may have to do this more than once during their lifetime, getting rid of the parasites will help your dog’s temperament and keep them healthy. 

If you noticed small red bites on your dog or if the dog has been scratching the same area until bald spots appear, then they may have fleas, ticks, or mites. This allergic reaction is caused by insect saliva. If your dog has open wounds, you should wait until the wounds heal before spraying or bathing them with medicine that kills the insects and their eggs. Take your dog to the vet if this is the first occurrence. The vet may be able to prescribe an ingestible pill that will protect them from future infestation. You may also want to keep your dog indoors during flea and tick season. 

When your dog vomits more than once a week or has diarrhea for more than one or two days, they may have an allergy to dog food. Switching to another brand or feeding the dog softer food may solve this problem. You should take the dog to the vet anyway so that they can make sure the dog is healthy. Extreme diarrhea will lead to dehydration, so make sure you have plenty of water for your dog to drink.  

If your dog’s mood changes suddenly or you notice that they are not as playful as they once were, then you should take the dog to the vet. If the dog has eaten something it shouldn’t or if it is suffering from allergies, it will not want to play as much as it used to. Finding out the cause of their allergy may be difficult because, much like human beings, your dog may be allergic to more than one thing. 

Research your dog’s breed to see if there are specific items it could be allergic to and see if they are present in your home. Monitor your dog to see how it behaves and what it is eating. Sometimes eating too much grass can cause an allergy attack. Once you find the causes of the allergy, take the steps necessary to reduce the dog’s exposure what is causing the allergy as much as possible.  

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FLEAS - A Common Resident In Every House

(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

They are one of the greatest bloodsucking parasites which can cause a lot of damage. These different types of fleas live by sucking blood from mammals and birds. Some of the very common fleas are the cat flea, dog flea, human flea, northern rat flea and oriental rat flea. You may suffer from an allergic reaction and may also get transmitted with severe diseases due to these fleas. Because of the warm, humid and readily available environment in your home, these fleas easily survive without much hindrance.

They procreate in huge numbers which makes them next to - indestructible. Many times these fleas just become a nuisance other than anything else. Their small fish like structure goes unnoticed which makes it difficult to detect. Presence of pets in your house is another reason for fleas to attack humans. Having a spick and span environment keeps them off from your mattresses. The growth rate is so high that it becomes next to impossible to end the reign of terror. Some of the common effects fleabites have on us is a loss of hair, severe allergic reaction - rashes, itchy skin and severe diseases.

Home Remedies for Fleas

Keep your house clean by regular vacuuming as well as cleaning and bathing your pets to avoid any circulation of these parasites.

One of the most natural repellents which we have come across to fight fleas is the eucalyptus leaves. Somehow the smell is a major turn off for them.

You can use borax, which works great against the fleas. Spread it across your house; let it sit for some days and later vacuum your house to remove those fleas.

Spreading cedar chips along with your fence line or in your room can keep the fleas at bay. You can also have a tansy plant outside your dogs' pen to keep the fleas away.

Make garlic an important part of pets’ food. Mix it, crush it, mince it, powder it and use it in any form to keep the pest away from the pets.

Adding yeast pills to your dog's diet also gets rid of the fleas. These yeast pills can be easily found in any of the medical stores.

Try diatomaceous earth, is one of the most natural ways to get rid of fleas. It can be used be in your house, around the house and on your dog.

Warning: The reader of this article should exercise all precautionary measures while following instructions on the home remedies from this article. Avoid using any of these products if you are allergic to it. The responsibility lies with the reader and not with the site or the writer.

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TICKS – A Very Serious Threat to Your DOGS HEALTH

Adult deer tick, Ixodes scapularis. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Ticks are not insects like fleas, but arachnids like mites, spiders, and scorpions. A tick has a one-piece body, harpoon-like barbs around its mouth to attach to a host for feeding, crablike legs and a sticky secretion to help hold itself to the host. The United States has about 200 tick species whose habitats include woods, beach grass, lawns, forests, and even in some urban areas.

They have a four-stage life cycle, egg, larvae, nymphs, and adult. Depending on its species, a tick may take less than a year or up to several years to go through its four-stage life cycle. Adult females of some species lay about 100 eggs at a time. Others lay 3,000 to 6,000 eggs per batch.

Ticks can carry various infectious organisms that can transmit diseases to cats and dogs as well as humans. The four primary diseases and their symptoms are:

- Babesiosis – lethargy, loss of appetite, weakness, pale gums

- Ehrlichiosis – high fever, muscle aches

- Lyme disease – lameness, swollen joints, fever, poor appetite, fatigue, vomiting

- Tick paralysis in dogs – gradual paralysis and poor coordination 

Of the four diseases, Lyme disease is the worst, as it can also infect humans. Studies indicate that dogs are 50 percent more susceptible to this disease than humans. Lyme disease is transmitted through the bite of the deer tick, also called the black-legged tick. Symptoms in humans include fatigue, chills and fever, headache, muscle and joint pain, swollen lymph nodes, and a red circular skin rash. In June 1992 the USDA licensed a vaccine to prevent Lyme disease in dogs. There is no vaccine for cats yet.

If your dog is outside regularly, ask the veterinarian about the Lyme disease vaccine. Watch for the symptoms mentioned earlier, and if you suspect a tick-borne disease get your dog to the vet immediately. With early diagnosis, antibiotics generally work. If possible, dogs should be kept out of tick-infested areas. In areas where ticks are prevalent, yards, where dogs exercise, should be treated with appropriate chemicals to kill adult and immature ticks.

Dogs should be examined frequently for the presence of ticks on their bodies. Ticks prefer sheltered locations, such as inside the ears and between the toes of the host, but a heavily infested dog may have ticks anywhere on its body. When a tick is found it should be removed immediately. The proper way to remove a tick is to use fine-point tweezers, grasping the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull gently, if the ticks mouth parts remain embedded in the animal's skin, you should try to remove them as you would a splinter. Alcohol or other disinfectants should be used on the bite site, the tweezers, and your hands if you do not wear gloves.

The tick can and will survive after they are removed from the host. You should flush the tick down the toilet or drown them in a small container of alcohol. You should never squeeze a tick as it will release toxins that may contain any of the diseases discussed earlier. Hundreds of pesticides and repellants are available to control ticks on dogs and cats. Products range from oral medications that are available only from your veterinarian to collars, sprays, dips, shampoos, powders, and spot-on. 

The chemicals Chlorpyrifos and Amitraz are used in several types of products and are very effective against ticks. Amitraz should not be used on dogs that are sickly, pregnant, or nursing. However, no matter what type of medication you use, always check with your veterinarian first.

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Taking Care Of A DOG In Its SENIOR YEARS

Photo  by Tobyotter 

When you have a dog, you have a best buddy. Millions of dog owners around the globe know this to be true. Nevertheless, you are tasked with caring for a dog if you should opt to bring one into your home. That's why you have to have some tips about how to do this. Keep reading for some great dog tips.

Consider teaching your dog hand signals along with oral commands. Consistency and practice are key to teaching a dog these non-verbal commands. Many owners get annoyed and resort back to oral commands, but a professionally trained dog should understand both. Try utilizing only oral commands when the dog is out of the way range, but when close up, only use the hand signals.

Keep on top of fleas. Not only can fleas give rise to infection in your dog, if you are swallowed, your pet can get tapeworms also. Speak to your vet about the best prevention system, but remember that this is not a single shot deal. You will have to continue your efforts over the life of your pet.

If you have got an interest in providing your dog with the healthiest of diets and making positive contributions to the earth's environment, make his food from scratch. You can buy locally grown organic ingredients and provide him with all of the proteins, carbohydrates, and fats he wants with no preservatives while reducing the waste from packaging too.

Pup

In order to make sure your dog is healthy, be absolutely certain to permit it to have access to clean water at all times throughout the day. Just like with all living beings, water is one of the most vital elements. The sole exception would be that you would want to keep water from a pup for 3 hours before bedtime.

Dogs need frequent check-ups, as well. At regular intervals, your dog desires indications of dog worms testing, vaccinations, and general check-ups. With a puppy, you're going to need to visit your vet a little more frequently. If your dog becomes unwell or is hurt, don't delay in getting him to the vet.

Owning a new young dog is very similar to having a new baby. Puppies need lots of attention and need to be looked after continually. They are not prepared to be left alone for lengthy amounts of time and need to have a fair degree of attention devoted to them.

Treatment

When taking your senior dog to the vet for a yearly visit, be sure to request senior blood work. A blood panel can help your vet to identify any kidney, heart or vascular concerns. If caught early, treatment is often minimally aggressive and less expensive. This is the best way to keep your pet healthy for several years to come.

Your coaching methodologies should only use positive reinforcement. The promise of reward or praise will incentivize your dog faster and agreeably than domination or force. This form of training will give you numerous benefits in the future for your dog. Therefore, be kind when coaching your dog and revel in the great end result!

Don't bathe your dog once you have applied for a flea or tick medicine. Some medications out that they are waterproof, but they only mean against rain or swimming. They will mostly wash away with a dog shampoo, rendering the treatment ineffective. If you've got to wash the dog after a treatment, employ a soap free shampoo.

Not only do you have a chum when you have a dog, but you've also got a responsibility. It's important that you do your utmost to ensure that your dog is well-fed, healthy and happy. You need to make certain that you use the tips here to help so you and your dog both enjoy a good life.

Author: Timothy Huff

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FLEA CONTROL: The In's and Out's of Getting Rid of those Pesky Critters

Photo  by Christina Welsh (Rin) 

Bleh – fleas! ‘Tis the season – are you prepared? It’s not just at home where you need to be ready either. Different geographical areas have different climate conditions so the flea season varies depending on where you are – keep that in mind whether you are at home or traveling. Something else to be aware of is that fleas, in various stages of their disgusting lives, can survive indoors even during the cold weather. Following are some helpful facts about fleas and information on how you can prevent them from infesting your pets and your home.

Even though there are more than 2,000 known species and subspecies of fleas, only one class of flea called the ‘cat flea’ is to blame for almost all the fleas found on cats and dogs in the United States. What is really daunting is that there is evidence of fleas dating all the way back to the dinosaur era which means they obviously aren’t going away by themselves – all the more reason to do something to protect your pets and family.

Most fleas can survive for an average of two to three months without ‘food’ which is actually the blood they suck from their ‘hosts’.  A female flea consumes 15 times her own body weight in blood daily! You should also know that while adult fleas suck blood from a cat, dog or other mammals, their larvae live and feed on organic debris in the host animal's environment – that’s your home! Be aware that some fleas can jump 150 times their own length – that compares to a human jumping 1,000 feet. So if you happen to see one flea, there may be more than 100 offspring or adults looming nearby in furniture, carpeting or on your pet.

Now let’s talk about how to prevent these gross little parasites from getting into your life and how to get rid of them if they do. As a pet owner, one of your main responsibilities is to keep your pet healthy. Taking them to the vet for their annual check-ups is very important. While you’re there, be sure to talk to your veterinarian about a flea prevention method for your furry friends such as Advantage, Advantix or Frontline. Certain products can also help to prevent ticks in addition to fleas.

If you see fleas on your pets or in your home, take action immediately. Not only are fleas a huge annoyance, but they can also transmit diseases and tapeworm. If your home becomes infested, you will probably need to purchase flea bombs – make sure read and adhere to the directions carefully and contact your vet to get further advice and relief for your pet and family.

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Some Information Regarding CAIRN TERRIER Pet Dogs

Cairn-Terrier (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

If you are thinking of getting a Cairn terrier pet dog, then you need to know some information about it first. Why? Well, knowing the right information about anything will help you in the long run. This is especially true when we are talking about a pet owner. Before you get a Cairn terrier pet dog, you need to be sure that you know what you are getting yourself into. You need to know how to take proper care of your cairn terrier pet dog and you also need to know what to expect when you are getting one.

Thankfully, there are a lot of sites on the internet which can provide you the necessary information. To save you some time, however, here are the basics:

Originally bred in the Scottish highlands, the Cairn terrier is the smallest of all terrier breeds. You should not let the size deceive you when you are getting a Cairn terrier pet dog, however. The Cairn terrier was first bred because of its working ability. You know what this means? This means energy.

A Cairn terrier pet dog has a lot of energy to spare. They can gain a lot from taking brisk walks daily. However, you should know that they do best when they have a fenced-in yard to play in. This way, they get more room when they play. Their high energy also means that they aren’t really suitable for apartment or condo living. If you live in such places, then having a Cairn terrier pet dog is not for you.

Their energy may also put them in danger. This is the reason why you need to make sure that a Cairn terrier pet dog stays in one area. Their natural instincts tell them to dig and run and these activities may lead to accidents if unsupervised.

There are, however, a lot of positive things that can be said about a Cairn terrier pet dog’s energy. For one thing, it makes the dog fun to play with. It can play for hours on end, giving you the companionship that you want. Another positive with this energy is the fact that this energy can be channeled into good purposes. A Cairn terrier pet dog is naturally inquisitive and is always willing to participate in a new adventure. This means that a Cairn terrier pet dog can be easily taught to do tricks. They learn tricks very fast and thrive in obedience training.

You need to make sure that your Cairn terrier pet dog is trained properly since untrained ones have a tendency to be destructive when they are bored.

Let us talk about the proper care for a Cairn terrier pet dog. One thing you do not need to worry about is its coat. The Cairn terrier pet dog was not bred for the beauty of its coat. The coat of a Cairn terrier pet dog is weather resistant and sheds little to no fur. Because of this, it can be a great indoor pet.

Being the smallest of terrier breeds, however, makes Cairn terrier pet dogs especially vulnerable to various health problems. Care must be taken when feeding it as it can gain weight quite rapidly. A Cairn terrier pet dog is also especially sensitive to fleas. However, you can be sure that this is one of the best breeds around.

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Significant Facts about PET ADOPTIONS

Dog at an animal shelter (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Have you ever thought about going through the available options for pet adoptions? Pet lovers need not worry about finding the right furry companion for them. They are available everywhere, even on the cyberspace. But you must remember that owning pets entails lots of responsibilities. Here are some notes that can guide you before you decide on becoming a full-fledged pet owner.

1. Adopting is less expensive than buying a pet. The cost will depend on the type of adoption center where you will be getting the pets. There are some places, just to give you a sample of how much it would cost, you could get a puppy for $150. If you opt to buy this, the prices usually range from $300 up to $600. Your expenses don’t stop there. You have to pay for the puppy’s vaccinations for its first years which may be about $150 up to $300. Other health tests must also be accomplished to ensure your pet’s health. This will cost you about $50 up to $200.

2. You are confident that you are getting a healthy animal as a pet. When you opt to adopt a puppy, the case is usually like this. The animal shelter will assure you that it already has gone through thorough examinations. And what are these? First, your puppy’s fleas have already been treated. You just have to maintain that in order to keep your companion well groomed. Health examinations for the puppy have already been done by the center and they make sure that before you get the animal, it has passed all tests. This assures you that you are getting a healthy pup.

If it is already suitable, when the animal is on its right age, the center will also provide its needed vaccinations. They also test the pups for parvovirus and some also do some testing for heartworm. Heartworm, distemper, and parvo-influenza are considered terminal diseases for dogs. So you have to make sure that your pet has gone through tests for these and passed them all.

And this situation applies to all animals in your chosen shelter. They are all being given attention and proper funding to look out for their health.

3. When you are in the process of adopting a pet, you will be assisted by the center’s staff so that they can match you with the right animal. And this process is also extremely important. This is like helping you find the perfect partner or the additional family member who would be accepted by the family. If you’d like to get a dog, there are many kinds of dogs not only in terms of the breed but also with the attitude.

You will find purebred and cross-bred dogs of different sizes and personalities. There are those that are shy and others with extremely high energy. You will be asked by the center if you are the type of person who loves sports and may want to bring the pet on your running sessions. Or are you the type who just wants to stay home after a stressful day and be comforted by the fact that you are no longer alone.

Pet adoptions can be fun as well as challenging. But you have to be responsible for the pet’s well-being after you have left the shelter. So make sure that you have thought about it really hard and you are ready to commit to the idea that you will be answerable to whatever will happen to your chosen pet once you have taken it home.

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Yikes I Saw A Flea On My DOG

Scanning Electron Micrograph of a Flea. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

At some stage of your pet's lifespan every pet owner will have to deal with the problem of fleas, ticks and mites. If left untreated they can take over your pet's skin and coat so it is really important to keep it under control. It's best to stop the problem before it gets out of control. Rather treat your pet for a few fleas than treat the whole house for an infestation! 

There are some misconceptions about fleas. It is not something that only happens to dirty animals! In fact it is probably more common in clean animals because fleas prefer a clean coat. Coming into contact with other animals also causes exposure to the problem and can start a flea problem in your home.

Fleas, mites and ticks are parasites with a short lifespan so they reproduce quickly. Female fleas can lay up to 25 eggs a day. So you can see just how quickly the problem can get out of hand! They tend to prefer warm conditions so summer and spring are the most troublesome times for pets and owners. 

The main thing is that you want to catch the problem early! This means brushing your dog often and inspecting their coat. Fleas, ticks and mites are tiny black, brown crawling creatures that can even look like dirt. It may help for you to examine the fur under their ears and arms/legs. Fleas like warm places. You can also sea flea egg sacks and flea droppings in their fur if you look closely. If you still cannot see the fleas try combing your dog on a bright surface, something like a piece of paper should work well. 

This is a problem that needs to be treated right away. Instead of heading for the pet store to buy expensive over-the-counter treatments, sprays or dips you should rather seek professional help right away. It will save you time. Your vet should have some pamphlets or handouts about flea control. Some vets even prescribe oral treatments if the problem is out severe. 

If you choose to shop for the products yourself you will need to read the labels carefully to check that you are not inadvertently poisoning your pet! Never allow your pet to ingest any of the products you use; they are highly poisonous. It's also important to protect their eyes from these harsh chemicals. There is a lot of disagreement about whether or not flea collars work. They tend to kill fleas in a localized area around the collar. 

It is important to treat your home for fleas as well. Fleas can survive in almost anything in your home-furniture, rugs and bedding. Any flea treatments will be pointless if the flea's eggs or fleas themselves remain in your living space. 

To clean your home properly you will need to sanitize and clean the areas where the pet sleeps. Depending on the severity of the problem you may need to throw away blankets that have become infested with eggs. Often - just washing the affected bedding in hot water and some flea shampoo should do the trick. Rather safe than sorry though - if in doubt toss the bedding. Having to have your home fumigated will cost a lot more! 

Fleas can become a nightmare for any pet owner. Rather stop the problem early - check your pet everyday for fleas and regularly use a preventative product approved by your vet.

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BORDER COLLIE - The Facts Every Owner of this Dog Breed Should Know

Border Collie - Photo: Pixabay

Bred for their intelligence and herding instincts, Border Collies are descended from British herding dogs. A medium sized dog, Border Collies will grow to about 19 to 22 inches and 30 to 45 pounds. They will live about 12 to 15 years. Border Collies have medium to long hair that comes in a variety of colors and is prone to shedding. Border Collies need to be brushed regularly to keep the coat healthy and dirt free. Border Collies are also known for their stare. Though their eyes can be brown, amber or blue, it is the Border Collie stare that people remember. This is part of the herding instinct, and a Border Collie will attempt to herd almost anything, including cars and children.

Great care must be taken with a Border Collie to ensure it does not hurt itself or others. A fenced in yard and plenty of leash training is a must with this breed. Border Collies are easy to train due to their intelligence, but, because of their desire to work, Border Collies must have work to do. If they are not given tasks to perform and room to roam, they will become bored and destructive.

They must have a lot of stimulation and activity to stay happy. Though good with children, Border Collies may attempt to herd them and, to keep the 'herd' in line, Border Collies have been known to nip. Border Collies usually do not do well with other animals, due to their herding instinct, and can become aggressive with other dogs of the same gender. Border Collies can be excellent household pets but must be cared for by a family willing to give them the training, attention, care, and activities they need. Border Collies are not recommended for people who live in apartments or those who do not plan on spending a lot of time with their pet.

Border Collies do have some breed specific issues. Some are prone to hip dysplasia, PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy) and Collie Eye Anomaly. Many Border Collies are allergic to fleas and some are prone to epilepsy and deafness. Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD) is a shoulder lameness that can develop between the ages of 4 to 12 months. Border Collies have also been known to work themselves to exhaustion and suffer from heat stroke in the hot weather.

Because Border Collies are very physically active, they are prone to athletic injuries, such as pulled muscles, cruciate ligament ruptures, cuts, and punctures, ripped toenails and footpads.

By Robert Benjamin - Copyright © 2006 Robert W. Benjamin Article Source: EzineArticles

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What Are Common Signs of Dogs with HYPOALLERGENIC PROBLEMS?

Photo  by RLHyde 

Dogs that have allergies show many signs including watery eyes, coughing and sneezing, excessive scratching and biting, vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, and moodiness. When your dog is suffering from allergies, you may notice one or more of these symptoms. Learning what causes these allergies is the first step toward treating your dog and preventing further attacks.

Many allergies that dogs suffer from are caused by insects such as fleas and ticks, or by parasites. When you bring your dog home from a breeder or from a shelter or pet store, schedule an appointment with a vet as soon as possible. Make sure the dog has all of its shots and that is has been dewormed. This will prevent parasites from causing an allergic reaction in your dog. While you may have to do this more than once during their lifetime, getting rid of the parasites will help your dog’s temperament and keep them healthy.

If you noticed small red bites on your dog or if the dog has been scratching the same area until bald spots appear, then they may have fleas, ticks, or mites. This allergic reaction is caused by insect saliva. If your dog has open wounds, you should wait until the wounds heal before spraying or bathing them with medicine that kills the insects and their eggs. Take your dog to the vet if this is the first occurrence. The vet may be able to prescribe an ingestible pill that will protect them from future infestation. You may also want to keep your dog indoors during flea and tick season.

When your dog vomits more than once a week or has diarrhea for more than one or two days, they may have an allergy to dog food. Switching to another brand or feeding the dog softer food may solve this problem. You should take the dog to the vet anyway so that they can make sure the dog is healthy. Extreme diarrhea will lead to dehydration, so make sure you have plenty of water for your dog to drink.

If your dog’s mood changes suddenly or you notice that they are not as playful as they once were, then you should take the dog to the vet. If the dog has eaten something it shouldn’t or if it is suffering from allergies, it will not want to play as much as it used to. Finding out the cause of their allergy may be difficult because, much like human beings, your dog may be allergic to more than one thing.

Research your dog’s breed to see if there are specific items it could be allergic to and see if they are present in your home. Monitor your dog to see how it behaves and what it is eating. Sometimes eating too much grass can cause an allergy attack. Once you find the causes of the allergy, take the steps necessary to reduce the dog’s exposure what is causing the allergy as much as possible.

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Natural DOG FOOD Recipes

Your dog’s behavior, health, happiness, well being and longevity totally depend on what you feed your dog. Although there are a variety of dog foods available in the market, natural dog foods are considered to be the best for a dog’s health. Dogs require specific nutrients that are necessary to maintain the health of your dog. The food that your dog eats should contain all the necessary nutrients as they play an important role in proper functioning of your dog’s body. 

This Natural dog food plays an important role in the overall development of your dog. These dog foods are highly nutritious and your dog will simply love it. Your dog will definitely stay healthy and fine if natural dog foods are given on a regular basis.

Natural dog food recipes are not difficult. In fact, it is very easy to make natural dog food. Without any problem, you will be able to make these dog foods at home. All you require is access to some fresh natural ingredients. Natural dog food recipes also perform the preventing diseases. If you want to strengthen the immune system of your dog then natural dog food recipes are a must.

Your dog will no longer suffer from any kind of allergies or fleas. Natural dog food recipes are much better than processed pet food recipes. Some experts believe that processed food is responsible for causing illness. It may also lead to premature death of your dog. Lack of natural dog food may give rise to coat and skin problems and other serious health problems.

You can always take the help of internet if you want more knowledge about natural dog food recipes. There are a number of websites that provide natural dog food recipes.

Natural dog food recipes are a major source of energy and hence it is essential to feed your dog with these foods. Various natural dog food recipes are also published in the book. With the help of these books, you can make your own natural dog food diet at home. A recent survey has found that many are taking the help of books to prepare their own natural dog food.

Dogs not only survive but thrive on these natural dog food recipes. Here is one of the popular natural dog food recipe. This natural dog food recipe is safe and healthy for your dog

Akita Style Rice and Lamb: The ingredients of this dog food recipe are lamb, brown rice, broccoli, potatoes, carrots, and kombi. The brown lamb is kept in a small fry pan. Cubed potatoes are added to the small fry pan. A small quantity of water is boiled in a crock pot and broccoli pieces are then added to the crock.

The ingredients in the fry pan are also then added in the crock. Mix these ingredients properly. Pepper is added for taste. So the next time you try to feed your dog with processed food, think twice as it may harm your dog.

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Fact Sheet: CAVALIER KING CHARLES SPANIEL

(Original Title: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Dog Breed Profile)

Photo by donjd2

Description: 

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is considered a toy dog. This dog stands 13 to 18 inches at the withers and weighs between 10 and 18 pounds. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has a long, silky coat with feathering on the legs, tail, and ears. The coat comes in four colors: Blenheim, ruby, tricolor, and black and tan. Although the tail of the Cavalier is usually left its natural length, it is sometimes docked by one third. This dog can have a life span of 9 to fourteen years. It is also called the Ruby Spaniel or the Blenheim Spaniel.

History: 

King Charles II of England is most closely associated with the Spaniel that bears his name. Even as a child, he was surrounded by this breed of dog. After he attained the throne, he promoted the breed and allowed the little dogs the run of the palace. It is said that the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel even whelped on the royal bed. This small dog is present in art from the 16th to 18th centuries and was used to help attract fleas as well as its duties as a comforter dog. Breeding with the Pug produced a shorter faced dog, the King Charles Spaniel. However, an American fancier Roswell Eldridge, bred the breed back to the more original dog and recreated the Cavalier.

Temperament: 

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is exclusively a companion dog, despite its old Spaniel hunting instincts. It is a very affectionate and happy little dog that thrives when given attention by its human friends. This is a very playful dog that wants to please those around it. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is an excellent companion for anyone and is trustworthy and gentle with children. It loves to cuddle and bonds strongly to its family.

Health Issues: 

Although the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a fairly healthy toy breed, it can suffer from a variety of inherited health problems. One of the most serious problems is mitral valve heart disease, which begins as a heart murmur and can become worse as time goes on. Another serious condition is syringomyelia, in which cysts will form on the spinal column. This can be a painful condition for the dog. The potential owner of this engaging little dog would be well advised to make sure the dog is purchased from a reputable breeder who has followed intelligent breeding practices.

Grooming: 

Since the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has such a long coat, it is important to keep it well groomed. The dog should be brushed every day to prevent matting and the hair on the feet should be kept trimmed, especially around the toe and foot pads. The long ears should be checked regularly and kept clean and dry to prevent infections. Pay some attention to the eyes, too, to make sure they remain infection free.

Living Conditions: 

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a house dog. It cannot live in an outside situation, either physically or mentally. This little dog needs to be around people as much of the time as possible. The dog will adapt its exercise needs to its owner, so it is suitable for both active and inactive lifestyles. Regardless of the owner's exercise needs, however, the dog does need a walk every day. It is very suitable for living in an apartment.

By Scott Allan Lipe - Article Source: EzineArticles

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Understanding DOG FLEAS: How Fleas Breed & Affect Your Dog's Health

Fleas belong to the insect order Siphonaptera. They are common pests and may attack many mammals, including man. They can be a year round problem because they infest not only pets but also the home of the owner. Because of this, treatment of the pet alone may only temporarily solve a flea infestation.

Scratching - Photo  by    ☺ Lee J Haywood   (cc)

Although many species of fleas feed primarily on one type of animal, the common cat, and dog flea will readily take blood from a variety of animals, including man. Flea infestations of pets and their homes will most likely involve the cat flea, Ctenocephalides felis and occasionally the dog flea, C. canis.

Fleas are small (2 to 4 mm in length), brownish to black insects which are characteristically flattened from side to side. Adults are wingless and capable of jumping relatively long distances. Adults feed exclusively on blood with their piercing-sucking mouthparts. When not actively feeding, adult fleas often hide in locations frequented by the host animal such as your dog bedding, sofas, or carpeted areas.

The common cat and dog fleas breed throughout the year. After feeding and mating, the female deposits her eggs, usually on the host. Several eggs are laid daily and up to several hundred over a lifetime. Eggs normally fall off the host into bedding material or similar areas and hatch within two weeks.

Flea eggs accumulate in areas where the host spends most of its time. In addition, adult fleas defecate small pellets of digested blood which also drop off into the environment. A flea comb will often gather this fecal matter at the base of the tines providing a good sign of flea infestation. The combination of white flea eggs and black dried blood specks may appear as a sprinkling of salt and pepper were an infested animal has slept.

Fleas undergo complete metamorphosis, that is, they pass through four developmental stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. Immature fleas do not resemble adults at all.

Flea larvae are tiny, light colored, and, worm-like, without legs. They feed primarily on various debris and organic material including the droppings of the adults which contains digested blood. Flea larvae occur indoors and outdoors, wherever the eggs have fallen off the host. In houses, flea larvae live in carpeting, furniture, animal bedding and other protected areas with high humidity. Flea larvae also live outdoors in areas where animals spend time such as under porches in and around dog houses, etc.

Because flea larvae depend on the adult’s fecal pellets of dried blood as a food source, they cannot live in lawns or other outdoor areas unless the pet visits those areas enough to provide this food.

Depending on the species of flea and environmental conditions the larvae will pupate in one week to several months. The pupa is contained within a loose silken cocoon which is often covered by bits of debris. Under average conditions, the life cycle of the flea normally requires between 30 and 75 days but may take much longer. Adult fleas inside the cocoon, called pre-emerged fleas, will stay in that condition for weeks to months if no external cues from a host is available.

However, when disturbed by the presence of a host such as vibrations or carbon dioxide from exhaled breath, the fleas emerge simultaneously and attack the host. This is why it is possible to return to a house or apartment that has been empty for months and find it full of fleas.

When the normal host is available, fleas may feed several times a day but they are capable of surviving extended periods of starvation. In household situations, the normal host is a cat or dog. However, if the normal host is removed, starved fleas will readily seek other sources of blood and more often than not, man is the alternate host. In severe infestations, fleas will attack humans even though the normal host is present.

Certain species of fleas have been known to transmit such diseases as bubonic plague and murine typhus. These have never been a major problem. The major problems with fleas is a nuisance pest of pets. The irritation and itching from flea bites result in scratching and potential secondary infection. Fleas may also transmit the double-pored dog tapeworm to dogs and cats.

Finally, persistent attacks from fleas can cause severe allergic responses in some people and pets. Once sensitized, a single flea bite may produce symptoms including hair loss, usually around the base of the tail, dermatitis, and intense itching. In worse cases, puppies and young kittens can also die from serious fleas infestations.

With proper flea management knowledge, flea problems will not be a big issue and can be a battle and win over easily.

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