PERSIAN CAT: Chocolate and Lilac color

Chocolate Himalayan/Colorpoint Persian (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Chocolate or lilac Persians?

Can it be possible? I, as an owner, breeding Persians and exotics, pose myself such a problem quite recently. Of, course they exist, if to see from the genetic point of view. These colors are included into standard, there is their description, but... Where are they? By all accounts from abroad, they have such animals but for some reason, they are more often met in pedigrees of British cats as experimental partners for leading new color into the breed, but not like exhibition stars. It had to spend lots of time to answer the question: "What is the real situation with Lilac and Chocolate in the Persian group?"

The paradox came to light at once: there is enough big number of Points with Chocolate and Lilac masques and practically full absence of equally colored individuals. Probably, the fashion played its role in it. After all, from the genetic point of view Lilac-Point color is more difficult in receiving than, for example, Chocolate Solid (solid-monochromatic, "firm" color). Now, thanks to fashion's jokes, selections are forced to a word for word takeout Chocolate and Lilac either from Solid-carriers CRC (carriers of Color-Point gene) or to work simpliciter with color lines, making copulations Solids (moreover it is desirable of stronger type) with Colors and further interbreeding on the Color parents. Such copulations are made for a long time, but a purposeful selection is begun recently in this direction.

Only several breeding nurseries work today in this direction:

This is JUKI in Poland. It is world-famous nursery. But again they have Chocolate and Lilac not like purpose of selection, but like a side effect of Color-Points' breeding of modern type.

This is Smaragd in Estonia, which specializes in Persian and Exotic cats of Lilac color and uses in the work cats from JUKI and Finnish nurseries.

Lilac cat of strong type, reached high victories by FIFE system. Pedigree program of the nursery is various and includes copulations with Chocolate sires.

This is Tair Polling in Ukraine, using also bloods of JUKI, but specializing, vice versa, only in Chocolates and Tabbys. You can see first kittens from this oldest Kharkov nursery in Moscow.

This is club Irbis (FIFE) in Krasnodar, working at the Colors' bloods and carriers of Chocolate. Today the nursery Rarity of one sire, cat of Lilac color. Now you can see the first Lilac prosterity of show-quality.

The nursery Kelisa in Sochi is the nursery of Chocolate Persians. Prosterity of the same type, thought-out pedigree program. The nursery plans the receiving of Lilac Exots and the perfection of the type.

Several animals of Chocolate color appeared in Russia and Ukraine, but you can't see the result of breeding yet. Or these cats still too young, or the pedigree program is not thought out, giving a soon result. Chocolate Exot of Kharkov bloods lives in Saint Petersburg (owner is Orlova S.), also the city on Neva can boast of Chocolate Color-Point, imported from Poland, one more Exot from Kharkov is purchased by the nursery Dimarsh (Moscow).

There are animals of modern type in Perm and Voronezh, but because of their remoteness from the capital or passivity of the owners we have a few information about them.

The nursery Alexander-Fred (Moscow) has three Chocolate Persian cats ( of different blood lines), one Chocolate Exot, Chocolate Cream cat, and also several cats-carriers of chocolate gene. The nursery plans the receiving of Chocolate and Lilac Bicolor cats. The nursery leads common pedigree program with Kelisa (Sochi).

Several enthusiasts in Moscow started the breeding of Chocolate and Lilac Persians, but probably they either didn't have enough means to purchase interesting sires or purposefully decided to go all the way of coming-into-being of animals' type, who originally received chocolate color by the way of interbreeding.

It is necessary to understand genetic appropriateness of these colors to know the rules of breeding and receiving of Lilacs and Chocolates.

The black color of the hair equally with red is considered to be the basic color. Pigment melanin in black color - eumelanin, in red - pheomelanin. All the rest various colors (except white) are only derivatives of these two. The black
 color of the hair is formed under the influence of gene B - black, which is defined as full chromogenesis. The pigment equally assigned to the axis of hair from the root till the tip. Gene B - black of black color is prepotent, and behind it, the row of recessive genes can be hidden:

Gene brightener D (delutor - i.e. diluent), that gives an opportunity to receive from the given sire kittens of blue color. This gene is charged with distribution of pigments, their more thin location along the axis of hair, making the tone of the hair more light;

Gene b of chocolate color ( special location of pigments along the axis of the hair) , giving an opportunity to receive from the giving animal kittens of chocolate color and, in combination with gene-brightener D, lilac color. Consideration must be given to the fact that gene b is recessive. I.e. to receive kittens of chocolate color, both of parents must be carrier of this gene, and to receive the posterity of lilac color, both of parents must have at the same time genes D and b;

Gene of siamese color is interesting by opportunity to receive the posterity with siamese marks, including blue, chocolate and lilac colors (in the presence of genes of clarification and chocolate color at the same time).

Presence of given genes can define, studied the pedigree of sire or in practice, choosing partners with known genetics. But to receive the color, close to ideal, it is necessary to keep to the rule - to pair similar with similar. The main requirement for the quality of lilac and chocolate color is their tender, warm tone. These colors go well together, but as possible partners, it is allowed to choose cats of Red, Cream colors, who give their Lilac and Chocolate progeny pinkish tint of hair and bright eye color. To Lilac and Chocolate Tabbys can be recommended Golden Tabbys as possible partners or improvers of type.

A peculiarity of today's situation in Chocolate breeding of Persian is that the task to get rid of the Siamese gene became the purpose of the selections. At the first stage of the work, it comes to the leading this gene into the recessive state. In the future, numerous copulations of Chocolates and Lilacs 'inside them' will allow to clear up the color gene of the population.

It would seem that there is nothing simpler to pair Lilac-Point with Red cat, and then interbreed littermates between each other. But the question of the type stands the most sharply in Persians than in other breeds. That's why such way is inconvenient - doing the step forward, it has to do two steps back. What we have to do? Very often animals of black color, especially in extreme breeds are the carriers of the strongest, modern type, that's why they are used as improvers in the breeding of animals of different colors such as Points, Smokes, Bicolors and even Chinchillas. That's why it is appropriate to attract exactly them (or Tortoiseshell cats, received from black, high-class sires) to the chocolate program.

Extract from the standard of Persian colors WCF (edition by 1995)

PER b CHOCOLATE

Color: All colors of brown are accepted, without rust, white hairs or picture. Without grey undercoat, the color must be equal.

Lobe of the nose: Color of milky chocolate

Pads: Color of cinnamon or chocolate

Eye color: Copper or deep-orange

PER c LILAC

Color: Color of hair is pale lilac with light pink shimmer, without white hairs or picture. Without grey undercoat, the color must be equal.

Lobe of the nose: Lilac

Pads: Lilac-pink

Eye color: Copper or deep-orange

Today the interest to the rare Persian colors increases. That's why I hope that very soon we can often see the rarest and the most mysterious Chocolates and Lilacs on the shows!

By Jessica Jennings - Article Source: EzineArticles

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Is the SCHNOODLE a True HYPOALLERGENIC DOG?

Schnoodle (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The Schnoodle, which is considered by some to be hypoallergenic, is the result of breeding Giant Schnauzers and Standard Poodles. Depending on how they are bred, the Schnoodle may or may not be hypoallergenic. This is because if two dogs that are different breeds are not of similar age or height, their offspring may not be hypoallergenic. This is because the dog may take longer to mature; their hair may be a mix of different textures and lengths, or because their skin may shed more often than other breeds. 

Even though the Schnoodle is not considered a hypoallergenic dog by all, you can judge for yourself by visiting a breeder to see if the dogs cause you to have an allergic reaction. Visiting a breeder is a great way to see which dogs are the right ones for you. While some hypoallergenic dogs will not cause an allergic reaction in some people, it might in others. The best way to tell if you will be able to have a dog in your home is to be around the dog before you take it home. 

The Schnoodle can vary in size and color. The dogs are considered friendly and intelligent. If you decide to visit a breeder, you should ask about the dogs that are bred together to see if they are using the right mix. While the Schnoodle is considered to be a mongrel dog in some circles, in others it is considered a successful hybrid. Depending on which breeders you talk to, they may tell you that the Schnoodle is safe from health risks that purebred dogs suffer from because of hybrid vigor. While this condition has not been proven, many breeders claim that hybrid dogs will not suffer from the health ailments that their parents will suffer from.  

Since a Schnoodle can be an expensive dog to purchase, visiting a breeder is recommended. If you do not like the way the dogs are treated or if you feel the kennels are not safe or clean, then you should not buy a dog. Many dogs produced in ‘puppy mills’ are sickly are will not survive long. The demand for the Schnoodle has risen in the past few years, so more ‘puppy mills’ have opened. Make sure the breeder you buy the dog from is licensed. 

As your Schnoodle gets older, it may suffer some health problems. Many hypoallergenic dogs suffer from muscle ailments, allergies, tumors, and other problems. There is no way to know what a dog may develop over time. It is important to treat the dog with respect at all times and also to learn as much as you can about the breed so that you can have the possible relationship possible. The Schnoodle enjoys exercise, playing, and socializing. While it may be difficult to train at first, the dog will usually develop a routine. The Schnoodle does not like to be left alone for long periods of time, but with a little training, you will be able to leave the dog alone during the day when you are at work. 

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GOLDEN RETRIEVER - A Loving, Large Family Dog

(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Golden Retrievers are a medium to medium/large dog breed. They reach a height between 20” to 24”. If a Golden Retriever could speak, they might say, “What can I do for you?” They are born people pleasers from hunting to tricks to a family pet.

The Golden Retriever is AKC recognized with coat color in varying shades of golden or cream with gold throughout the coat. They get their name, of course, from the color of their coat. They have a medium length, water-repellent outer coat and a dense undercoat. Their coat is feathered. They require daily brushing to prevent knots and they only need occasional dry shampoo. You should only give them a wet bath if necessary.

Exercise and playful outside and calm indoors, the Golden Retriever is considered to be one of the best large dog breeds to have as a family pet. They are great with children and other dogs. Early socialization is recommended for birds and small non-canine pets because of their hunting history but they tend to get along with other animals as well. They are extremely easy to train, even for the dog novice. They love to learn and they are fast learners. They are best for active families as they need daily time to run and roam outdoors. If you are looking for an excellent hunting companion, the Golden Retriever is an awesome hunting dog.

Originating in the mid-1800s, some sources state England as their country of origin and others state Scotland as their county of origin. Lord Tweedmouth at Inverness-Shire, Scotland is said to have extensive records that show he developed the breed. Their ancestry includes the Water Spaniel, Retrievers, Setters and a Bloodhound. They were mainly used for hunting and retrieving and have an excellent sense of smell. They also make excellent therapy and guide dogs.

If you are in search of a large dog that is sweet, calm and affectionate and will be good with families that include other dogs or small children, it is hard to find a more pleasing, gentle large family dog. Exercise and play are important in their daily activities, but they will be just as happy relaxing inside with you at night.

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Learn About MILITARY DOG Adoption

Photo: Wikimedia

Military dogs are no ordinary dogs; they are not the regular dog breeds that one is used to at any given moment. They usually are highly trained dogs that are used in combat. Their functions vary from carrying equipment to the first-line attack; some are even used as spies as they can detect the enemy from afar without causing any suspicion. These traits make the military dog adoption a very suitable companion for military personnel nut when their time comes to be laid off service what next for them?

As initially mentioned the military that we know is some protocol and order and in this case, once the dogs are done with their service, there is some protocol to be followed in the case of adoption of these dogs. They are put up for these programs within the force and if none is interested in these dogs then they usually are put up for these services to other government institutes and if by any chance there are still some dogs left then they are set up for adoption to the ex-servicemen as they have the skill of handling them and finally the general public may take up the last dogs.

Before a military dog is put up for this, a number of factors are considered before its released to the public. One of the main factors in place is the level of aggression on the dog. Highly aggressive dogs are rarely placed for these services because in many cases they cause more harm than good to the general public. In many instances, they are waylaid as they usually are not suitable for the general public.

The level of dependency also determines the release of a dog for adoption. The highly dependent dogs are more likely to be killed or remain in service as they may be trouble for the handlers. The very skilled dogs are also highly dependent as they need constant commands from the owners and the other injured dogs also need constant supervision.

The breed of the dog also highly determines at what age and level they will be put up for adoption, in some cases some dogs are put up for earlier in this program than others due to their expected lifespan. The breed and species dictate how the dog fairs on with life as after a certain period of living it becomes more of a burden than an advantage.

Some combat dogs are adopted at a very early in their life. Not because they do not suite the job but because of their intelligence. They portrayed a high level of intelligence and in most cases, they are put aside for adoption solely for breeding purposes as this line of genes should be passed on to the future generations.

Many of the dogs that are ex-military still have not fully lived their expected lifespan as they were intended to thus putting them up for adoption gives them a second chance to life and by nature the loyal nature of these dogs makes them very suitable partners as they are used to following commands as one should only know what triggers their reactions.

An adoption is an option that almost all dogs in the forces should be given since they all get that new start away from their norms of life. As a result, they also help in saving the lives of many.

About the Author: Daphne Bowen Learn more about the retired military dog adoption process and get more information about the Mine & Explosive Detection Angel Paws organization at http://www.mddeddangelsrescue.com now.

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GERMAN SHEPHERD - Dogs of the World

GERMAN SHEPHERD - Dogs of the World

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The GERMAN SHEPHERD Dog

Buck - A Fine Example Of A German Shepherd (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Dogs called German Shepherds were first exhibited at shows in Germany towards the end of the nineteenth century but they were hardly Shepherds as we know them today is rough coated, short-tailed and rather resembling mongrels. The German Shepherd Dog as we now know it didn't really appear until after the Second World War.

The breed has grown enormously in popularity and is now one of the most popular pedigree breeds in the UK as a pet, it is still the favourite working breed for many forces especially the police and they are widely used for security purposes. 

It is a fine sight to see a well-trained GSD with his handler, working well to serve and protect. Unfortunately one of the saddest sites is the poor GSD used to guard premises often chained up alone in some dismal filthy yard with a lifetime of incarceration and little stimulation to look forward to.

The German Shepherd is a highly intelligent beast who will show undying devotion to his master but he is a dog that needs company and stimulation to be at his best.

If you are thinking of buying a German Shepherd as a pet and you have not previously owned one, it is important to research the breed and talk to experienced owners so that you fully understand what you are taking on. 

GSD's do indeed make wonderful family pets but it is important to remember that this is a working breed and that they do have certain characteristics that can make them more difficult than your average Retriever, Labrador or Collie.

The characteristics of a good working GSD should be firmness of nerve, attentiveness, unshockability, tractability, watchfulness, reliability, and incorruptibility together with courage tenacity and hardness.

A German Shepherd is naturally protective and territorial which is something to bear in mind if you have lots of visitors to your house when careful introduction may be required to assure your pet that the visitor is not a threat to his family.

This is also a breed that requires a lot of time, stimulation, training and exercise - you will never wear them out, they will always be ready for more. A bored, lonely GSD can be very destructive and can cause an awful lot of damage to property in a short space of time.

Perhaps some of the less endearing traits of this breed are the tendency to be very vocal which can be a big nuisance and may be a problem with neighbours. They also shed hair in copious amounts all year round so your vacuum cleaner will work overtime and it's unlikely that your clothes and furnishings will ever be free of dogs hairs again as well as what you are eating invariably being contaminated with that stray hairs.

The biggest problem with the German Shepherd Dog is the fact that to a large extent the breed is being spoilt by irresponsible breeding by inexperienced back street breeders who care nothing about preserving the breed but only about making money from the selling of puppies, Health and temperament problems are all too common, so it is important to take expert advice and try and find a reputable source if you are contemplating buying a puppy.

Consider first taking on a rescue German Shepherd Dog from a reputable rescue that should be able to give you a good assessment of a particular dog. Remember too that an older GSD will be a very rewarding addition to the family and will be housetrained, won't chew, well behaved, probably require less exercise than a young dog and will be very loyal and grateful.

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Fact Sheet: CHOW CHOW

(Original Title: CHOW CHOW Dog Breed Profile Information)

Photo by Prayitno

Description:

The Chow Chow is most recognizable for its full, bear-like coat. This breed is medium-large with a height range of 18 to 22 inches and weights between 45 and 70 pounds. The double coat of the Chow Chow is extremely dense and is found in smooth and rough varieties. There is a such an abundance of neck hair that it forms a noticeable ruff. The Chow Chow's tail is carried curled up over the back and is held close to the body. The tongue of this dog is blue, usually with a black underside. The coat is always a solid color, with red, black, cream, and blue being among the most common colors. This breed can live for up to 15 years.

History:

The Chow Chow developed in China, in the Mongolian region and is believed to be a very ancient breed of dog. This dog was a multi-purpose dog in the region of its origin and was used for hunting, drawing sleds, and as food. This breed was referred to by different names in China, and the name it now bears was bestowed on it by English sea captains, who brought the dog with them to England. General cargo was called "chow chow" and the name transferred onto the dog. Some believe the name also means food.

Temperament:

Known for a sometimes aloof manner, the Chow Chow is nevertheless a dog that will bond strongly with one person. This dog will get along well with children, but older children are best here. Socialization with other pets and people is important with this breed and training should begin while the dog is young. Although this dog breed has something of a reputation for aggression, this is mostly a result of poor breeding practices. The owner of this breed should exhibit authority so that the dog does not attempt to be the 'leader of the pack'.

Health Issues:

The Chow Chow is a fairly healthy breed but can be subject to various ailments. Hip and elbow dysplasia are found in this dog and it can also suffer from entropion. This dog can also develop bloat and if it does so, must be taken to the veterinarian immediately for treatment. Several small meals and a quiet time after eating can help prevent this serious condition. This breed, because of its relatively short muzzle will often snore.

Grooming:

Regardless of whether a Chow Chow is going to be used as a family pet or as a show dog, it needs a great deal of daily grooming. This dog's coat is much too thick and long to allow to go without brushing every day. This dog breed will experience a heavy shed twice a year and will need extra attention at this time.

Living Conditions:

The Chow Chow is a fairly quiet dog inside and will do well for apartment living if given a walk every day. As this dog has a somewhat reserved character, it does not mind living outside as long as it receives some attention every day from the person with whom it has bonded. The thick coat enables this dog to live outside even in winter.

By Scott Allan Lipe For more information on the Chow Chow Dog Breed, Dog Training and Teacup Puppies for sale including Yorkies, Chihuahuas and Morkies please visit our websites below. Teacup Puppies For Sale Article Source: EzineArticles

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BOXER DOG Training

Boxer Dog - Photo: Wikimedia

The Boxer is an amazing dog and is extremely playful, energetic and definitely a handful (in a good way of course).  This breed of dog is extremely loyal and when a friendship is built it lasts forever.  The boxer is unique and not for everyone if you are a new owner of a boxer you have to be aware that they need a lot of attention and training.  They are extremely intelligent dogs, which can work to your advantage when it comes to training, but then again can be very disadvantageous, as they know how to use their intelligence to get what they want.

Boxer dog training consists of training them up to become guard dogs; this is their main profession if you like.  People who do not know boxers tend to assume that they are naturally aggressive when they are in fact the opposite and could not be more playful than any other dog!  Because of their good stature and aggressive look, people are automatically assuming this dog could do more harm than good.  If your boxer is not trained properly then he just might.

Because of their intelligence, Boxers can be very stubborn but when it comes to training a boxer, it can be very helpful.  Owners must remember that there will be times when you ask him to do something and he’s going to look you in the face and basically tell you where to go, he knows he is supposed to do what you are telling him but he decides he can't be bothered and doesn’t.  The main thing you have to remember in these circumstances is to be patient.  From as early as 6 weeks old you should start your boxer dog training as this will help him when he grows up, socialize him, play with him and teach him, but do it in an exciting way and he is more likely to listen.

The main aspect of training for a boxer is socialization.  Boxers can be very friendly dogs but they need to be trained to become one.  They need to get accustomed to other dogs and people.  The best way to do this is training classes.  That way your boxer will be trained alongside other dogs. 

When your boxer reaches 13-16 weeks old it's time for some serious boxer dog training, this is the stage where he is going to test for dominance, he will nip and try to show you that he is the more dominant one, mainly by not listening to you.  You have to be a strong leader at this time; you must show him that bad behaviours will not be tolerated no matter what!

Boxers are genuinely a lovable family dog and would make a proud pet for anyone, they are dogs that prefer to sit on your lap for a cuddle than anything else.  Train your boxer early with some serious boxer dog training and you can be assured you will have a stunning, loyal family friend!

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Basic Commands For DOG OBEDIENCE

This Smooth Collie retrieves an obedience dumbbell made of wood
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Are you bored with your dog who knows only three commands? Don't fret, my friend! You could probably use a little jazz.  Specific command words are not that difficult and important. The thing here should be the consistency of its usage. My friend, Wiki, here can give you a bit of a blast. Some of these certain commands are accepted as standard, while others are commonly used.

Here is a list you might find quite interesting:

Let us start off with the basic commands

1.) Sit – it is a mono-syllabic word that requires a bit of an authentic tone that would require for your dog to be in a sitting position.

2.) Down – just like #1, this also requires an abrupt tone for the dog to be typically down when its elbows (front feet) and hocks (rear legs) are touching the ground or floor.

3.) Heel – The dog's head or shoulder is parallel to the handler's leg on the left side of the handler.

4.) Come or Here – (referred to as the recall) you just really got to call your dog which equates the whole command.

5.) Stay – another command that requires another snap for the dog to remain in the sitting position (sit, down, stand), and location under which the command was given until it is released by the handler

Those were just some of the basic ones, but wait! Here is something for those who are too hungry to actually stop.  The advanced commands are the following (which may need more patience and dedication): 

1.) Stop – Wiki says that the dog commanded will simply stop whatever it is doing, and lie down on command no matter how far it is from its keeper is a dog that can be taken anywhere. Some handlers use the German word PLATZ (related to place, i.e. stay in position) for this action.  A little bit demanding, but who knows when your dogs need it.

2.) Back up – keepers of large dogs or dogs with a reputation (a must quote!) for aggressiveness can make strangers more comfortable by teaching the dog to back up on command. This command might probably be very useful for police dogs.

3.) Growl – now this is what you guys should be talking about. In case you are bullied, this is the inverse of backing up. Some owners teach non-aggressive dogs to growl on a subtle command –not the word "growl", just usually a small hand gesture –as a way of letting strangers know that you and your dog value being left alone.

4.) Steady – to keep nearby. The dog can walk free, but not dash off. This can be very valuable to sport dogs, and/or during competitions.

5.) Stand – on this command, the dog stands still. Funny how this seems so advanced; it is very valuable for "grooming". Many dogs are groomed frequently, that they need to stand quietly during the process. You can also use this when you want your dog to wait for you at the park while lining up for an espresso at Starbucks seven in the morning.

6.) Go to bed, kennel, or get in – this command directs the dog to go to its bed, and remain there unreleased. This is somehow useful to keep a dog out from underfoot and safe in a busy or complicated situation.

7.) Drop or Drop it

– to release something they just picked up; very useful when they're about to chew your sandals off.

8.) Leave it – an adjunction to Drop, directing the dog NOT to touch an item.

9.) Take it – the dog leaves the desired object untouched until given this command.

10.) Give – a command teaching the dog to be generous, and/or releasing something your pet has placed in his mouth on your hand.

11.) Speak – another way of saying "to bark ONLY when I say so".

12.) Rollover – can be one of the basic commands; this is when the dog lies down, roll over, and stand back up. Quite a bit of an exercise.

13.) Attack – if partnered with the command "Growl", you (the owner) will be the king of your neighborhood, though mostly used only on Police Dogs. Common commands are either "Attack" or "Sick'em".

14.) Fetch – can also be one of the basic commands where the dog retrieves a thrown object, bringing it back to the one who threw it, a nice strategy for luring guard dogs (especially when they're obsessed with balls).

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Dog Food ALLERGIES

Food of Italy (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Food allergies are something that is difficult to identify unless one is well aware of the baseline information with regard to this type of allergy. The main symptoms of food allergies in dogs include the facial itching, limb chewing, belly itching, recurrent ear infections or skin infections. 

Since the dogs consume a lot of prepared food materials including various kinds of proteins, fillers, coloring agents and more; in the commercial food materials, the incidences of food allergies are more than one can imagine. Allergic reactions mostly involve the skin or the gastrointestinal tract. 

If you come across your dog itching after the provision of specific food materials, then suspect the food allergy in this animal. However, conditions like fungal infections need to be ruled out in general before the conclusion of itching as a sign of food allergy.

There are many recorded incidences of allergies of dogs to corn or to wheat. However, the food allergies vary from dog to dog.  Read the labels clearly before feeding your dogs with pet food materials, in such occasions.  Too much-colored food materials may be avoided since they may cause allergies to your dog.

Food allergies are often linked to the hyperactive behavior noticed in the dogs. Added colors, preservatives, and high-fat diet might cause such food allergies in the dogs and hence, one has to be careful in providing new kind of diet to their dogs and closely monitor the dog for any signs of allergy.   

There are many occasions that food allergies might be diagnosed in the dogs but the dog may have other problems like pancreatitis. To rule out the food allergies, observation your dogs everytime you feed them, look for reasons to link the signs of dog with food given, specific signs encountered, differential diagnosis etc. are the important features to be given emphasis. 

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What To Know About A CRAZY CAT Lady

 (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Cats are popular among pet owners. Dogs and cats are among the most common household pets that people have around the globe. There are numerous reasons why people like cats and some may own multiple. Crazy cat lady is used to describe a women who dote on these felines. She may have these as her own pets or take in any that she comes into contact with. The term is often used in a derogatory way, but not everyone considers this to be a negative thing.

In some cultures and regions, women with cats are considered spinsters. This is particularly the case when they have no husband, children and multiple cats. Many have come to associate these women with people who have trouble being in relationships or finding partners.

Cat lady is often a term that is linked to those who are also animal hoarders. That is, people who have a large number of cats. Many times they have so many that they are unable to properly care for them and they are often ill. Usually these animal hoarders suffer with other mental illnesses that make them unaware of the dangers they are creating for themselves and the animals. They are usually ignorant to the severity of their situation and often interventions of some sort are needed to get the person and the cats the help they need.

There have been famous cat ladies in pop culture and even documentaries or movies that highlight these feline-loving women. Still, this is not considered a positive title to have. Cat lady syndrome is becoming a more commonly used term that is backed by some scientific research.

Studies have found a parasite that is present in some cats. It is known as Toxoplasma gondii and it is associated with mental and behavioral disorders in people. Some suggest that this can have a big affect on the health of cat owners, especially of those who have multiple felines living in their home.

Risk is heightened when dealing with multiple cats, many that are ill. Hoarding cats is expected to result in negative impacts on physical and mental health of pets and owners. It can also lead to problems with the animals and keep them from living happy and healthy lives. Some cats die. Those who survive are often extremely ill. Typically the homes are unclean and owners cannot properly care for each one of the cats.

Those who know people like this should seek help for them. Most of the time they are unaware of the need for changes. In fact, they are often under the false belief that they have control of this situation. This is why interventions are so common in these situations.

Those who are in these positions are often not mentally well. They can benefit from support by others, including medical professionals. It is also important to intervene for the sake of the animals. Although it is not the intent of the cat lady to harm the animals, they do so in these situations. Owning too many animals is unsanitary and problematic, no matter how much care and attention the cats are receiving. People should report cat ladies to help them.

About the Author: by Olive Pate

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Fact Sheet: MAINE COON CAT

(Original Title: Maine Coon Cat Breed Facts)

A Maine Coon cat. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Maine Coon cats, the official state cat in Maine, are one of the oldest breeds in North America. As one of the largest breeds, these cats can weigh between 15 to 20+ pounds. Its distinctive characteristics include a long, thick tail; muscular body; broad chest; and tufted ears. Because of their friendly temperament, they are nicknamed "Gentle Giants" by their owners.

Maine Coon History

Their origins are unknown though several popular stories have been passed along the years. One story involves Capt. Charles Coon, an English captain who frequently traveled to New England with long-haired cats aboard his ship. Upon docking, the cats mated with local feral cats and produced lots of offspring. Townspeople referred to the strays as "Coon's cats".

Another folktale involves Queen of France, Marie Antoinette, who attempted an escape with Capt. Samuel Clough in 1793. Her prized possessions, including six beloved cats, were stashed on Clough's ship. Though she didn't escape her beheading, her cats arrived safely in Massachusetts. The cats were described with similar characteristics to the cooncat. Breeders consider the cats' ancestry to go back to the 11th century with the Vikings. History shows the breed existed in the 1800s as a hunting and domestic cats.

In 1967, the breed was officially recognized as a unique breed of domestic cat.

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Maine Coon Weight and Size

Maine Coon cats can weigh between 9 to 18 pounds. Males typically weight between 13 to 18 pounds, while females average 9 to 12 pounds. Their large, body shape, rectangle-build, and long hair make them look even larger. They are not full-grown until they reach 3 to 5 years of age. Adults can reach 10 to 16 inches in height.

Their length can be up to 40 inches, including their tails which can be 14 inches long.

Maine Coon Personality

They have several distinctive features, including their long, bushy tail; tufted ears; large, expressive eyes; and ruff around their neck (like a lion). Their eyes are green, gold, green-gold, or copper colors. Their coat is soft and comes in every color and pattern, except pointed patterns, like the Siamese. Their thick fur is shorter on their front legs and shoulders and longer on their back, perches, stomach, and tail. Their tail is often as long as their body.

They have a squared muzzle. They are nicknamed "Gentle Giants" for their affectionate, loving behavior. They are not lapping cats, though they enjoy following family members to offer help with any projects. Their playful nature continues in adulthood. Their distinctive meow -- a chirping sound -- lets owners know when they want their attention, to play, or to mate. They are great pets for families. Generally, they are indoor cats, and they enjoy interacting with people.

By Sarah Charlotte - Article Source: EzineArticles

Living In Harmony Or At War? Having More Than One CAT In Your House

Photo  by Takashi(aes256) 

I have two cats and I can't imagine that either of them would want to live without the other. They live like brother and sister. And I can't imagine me living with just one cat either.

For those that love cats, having just one is never enough.  Instead of having just one cat to call your own, you can have several.  Those who have more than one cat realize that this is a good thing not only for the cat owner but also for the cats as well.  Cats like other cat company.

Are you considering getting another cat?  Many people wonder if their cat would be okay with another being around.  If your cat is alone for a long period of time, then he may like having a cat around.  Older cats will often develop a new lease on life when there is a new kitten introduced to the home.  Some cats do like their solitude though and territorial issues can cause a problem.

New kittens mean having to go through all the frustrations with training all over again.  You’ll also need to consider the added expense of all the vaccines as well.  IF you add an older cat to the home, this too can be a challenge because the cat will need to adjust to the new home as well as to develop behavioral or health-related problems.

When choosing another cat to bring into your home, you do not have to choose a cat that is the same breed at the one that you have.  You may want to take care to choose the right combination though.  For example, a Rex with his silly behavior with a standoffish Russian Blue may not be the right combination.  Cats will similar traits can work well together.  The Himalayan Persian and the Maine Coon breeds are so friendly that they are likely to adapt to any even some of the most demanding breeds.

Set up an area for that cat before bringing him home.  He may do better if you allow him to stay in one area until he adjusts.  Allow him to settle in for the day before you introduce him to the rest of your family.

You’ll want to allow the original cat some time to get used to having the other cat in his home.  This may take some time.  For a smooth transition, make sure he doesn’t have to share his own litter box, his food or his toys with the new cat.  There are health reasons as well as feelings that should be thought of here.  Cats who are forced to share a littler box may actually decide to create their own area for a private box.

There are many reasons to have more than one cat.  For many of those reasons, you’ll be able to have that much more companionship with more cats.

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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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DACHSHUND FAQs

Wire-haired Dachshund in a dog show in Racibórz (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

A dachshund, literally meaning a badger dog -- a breed developed by German foresters to scent, hunt and kill hole-dwelling animals. In the United States, it is sometimes referred to as a wiener dog or sausage dog. The dachshund is 5 to 9 inches tall and has an average lifespan of 12 to 14 years.

Explain the physical characteristics of dachshunds?

Dachshunds are characterized by a long body and short legs. Loose skin, long drooping ear, and a barrel-like chest are the other features of dachshunds. They are red, chocolate brown, fawn or black in color. Dachshunds exist in standard, miniature and tweenie sizes. They have short haired, smooth haired, long-haired or wire-haired coats.

What is the difference between standard and miniature dachshunds?

A miniature dachshund weighs less than 11 lbs, and a standard size dachshund weighs between 16 and 35 lbs.

How to train dachshunds?

Considerable time, patience, and firmness are required on the part of the owners, as well as dog trainers to train dachshunds. It is always advisable to train dachshunds when they are puppies. Dachshunds training should be game oriented and food-based. These small dogs love it when you praise them.

Do dachshunds require exercise?

Dachshunds require a modest amount of exercise. Dachshund exercises are generally a moderate walk and games in the yard.

How to groom dachshunds?

Shorthaired coats require minimal grooming. But, wire-haired and long-haired coats need regular brushing, trimming and clipping.

Can dachshunds be housebroken?

Due to its stubborn nature, it is quite difficult to housebreak a dachshund. But properly devised training programs coupled with consistency and persistence can transform a stubborn dachshund into a sociable breed. Housebreaking methods include a direct method, paper method and crate training.

How are dachshunds with children?

Dachshunds are generally good with children if they are properly trained and socialized at an early age, especially when they are puppies.

How are dachshunds with other pets?

Dachshunds easily get along with pets like cats, provided they are given proper training and instruction when they are puppies.

By Josh Riverside - Article Source: EzineArticles

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DALMATIAN Puppy - Puppies of the World

Dalmatian Puppy - Puppies of the World

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I Love Owning DALMATIANS

A liver Dalmatian (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

I've always been a pet lover. Ever since I was a little girl and my parents brought me home my first hamster I have loved animals more than almost anything else. It didn't take rocket science for me to decide that I wanted to eventually be a veterinarian, so it was no surprise to anyone that I did indeed pursue my dream of working with animals as a profession. I did surprise people, however, when I coupled that dream with a smaller dream of raising and breeding dalmatians.

I think my love for Dalmatians began when I saw the infamous movie about them during my childhood. I think I was most intrigued with how unique and beautiful they were. So when it came time for me to purchase my first pet, there was little question of what I would choose: a dalmatian. I quickly found, however, that I couldn't stop with just one. I purchased three dalmatians within six months and was absolutely loving my life.

My dream of breeding and training dalmatians in my free time began shortly after I owned these first three dalmatians. They were such beautiful dogs and they were so easy to train and to take care of. I thought about how magical it would breed this great dog so that many other people could experience the pleasure of owning what I believe is the world's best dog.

If you are looking into getting a dog for your family's pet, then seriously consider getting a Dalmatian. Do a little research to learn about the breed and see if it would fit the needs and desires you have for a pet. Talk with owners of dalmatians and see what kind of experience they have had and what kind of advice they would give to other Dalmatian owners. And talk with your veterinarian for their perspective on what kinds of dogs and other pets might be wise for you to choose.

Having an animal is one of the greatest joys and privileges in life. I fell in love with owning dalmatians. See if you might not fall in love with owning them too. They are fun to play with and run with, yet they are not so needy that they take up all of your free time. They love to be both indoors and outdoors and they usually house train relatively easily. There are many benefits to having dalmatians the way I see it. But then again, the way I see it might just be a little biased.

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