Health Care for OLDER CATS

It may be hard for a pet owner to notice a pet cat getting older. Outside, pet cats may show the same things- playing with toys around the home, taking naps sprawled on a favorite spot inside the home, snuggle up with you on the sofa. But inside, it might be a whole different thing.  And health care for cats as they get old may change a little bit.

When caring your an aging cat, there are some things that a concerned pet owner should know about. When a cat approaches somewhere between the ages of eight or twelve years, this is the equivalent of a human being approaching middle age. This will be the time that your pet cat may be needing a bit of extra attention.

Photo by Radarsmum67

Most veterinarian generally estimate that cats start their geriatric years when they reach twelve years. This will be the time that caring for your pet cat would have to change to accommodate the needs that aging brings.

A major part of caring for older pet cats involve feeding them. As cats get older, their digestive systems do not function as efficiently as before. Aging cats may need to eat smaller and easily digestible meals in a day rather than just two square meals. Try also to make sure that you give your cat a variety of food to eat to ensure that it gets a well balanced diet.

There are also a number of cat food now available as food for the different life stages of your pet cat. There is cat food that is specially formulated for older cats as well as for the less active ones. The best advice in feeding your aging pet cat would be to ask your vet about the nutritional needs of your cat.

When cats age, they also start to lead a less active lifestyle. Whereas cats enjoy playing around and hunting during their younger years, older cats seem to prefer spending more time quietly around the home. This would be a benefit for some pet owners since they no longer have to worry about their once playful cat overturning and breaking things around the house. But this sedentary lifestyle would not be good for the cat.

Even though your pet cat would  you may still need to keep them active since the exercise would help keep them healthy. Try to have them active as often as possible to keep them active. As they age, cats may also need to have their vaccinations up to date. Older cats have a less efficient immune system and may need vaccinations to keep them protected from diseases.

Dental problems may also become a concern for old cats when they become prone to having loose teeth, tartar buildup, and sore gums. This can have a big effect on your pet cat's well-being. Dental problems may be the reason why they are not eating well. A regular dental check up might be needed as part of health care for old cats.

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MAINE COON Traits and Temperament

Traits:

Everything about the Maine Coon points to its adaptation into a harsh climate. It is glossy coat, large and water-resistant, is compared to that of not any other breed, and has to be felt to be appreciated. It is longer around the ruff, stomach and britches to defend against wet in addition to snow, and shorter around the back and neck to guard against tangling within the underbrush.

English: Male and female shaded silver Maine Coons have white roots on their guard hairs and undercoats and dark tips
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The coat falls smoothly, and is also almost maintenance-free: a weekly combing is all of that is usually forced to keep it inside top condition. Your long, bushy tail that the cat wraps all-around himself when he curls up to sleep can safeguard him from chilly winters. His ears are more heavily furred (both inside and around the tips) than many breeds for protection from the cold, and have a very large range of movement. Big, round, tufted feet assist as 'snow shoes. ' Their huge eyes and ears will also be survival traits, serving as they do increase perception and hearing.

Although the Yankee delusion of 30-pound cats is that, a delusion (unless the kitty is grossly overweight ), these usually are indeed tall, muscular, big-boned cats; males commonly reach 13 to 18 pounds, having females normally considering about 9 to 12 pounds. Add to that 2 or 3 inches of wintertime coat, and people will swear they are looking at 1 big cat.

Maine Coons develop slowly, and don't achieve their full dimensions until they are 3 to 5 years old. His or her dispositions remain kittenish during their lives; they're big, gentle, good-natured goofs. Even their voices set them as well as other cats; they've a distinctive, chirping trill they will use for sets from courting to cajoling their people into playing with them. (Maine Coons want to play, and many will joyfully get back small items. ) That they rarely meow, then when they do, that will soft, tiny speech doesn't fit their size!

Temperament:

While Maine Coons usually are highly people-oriented kittens and cats, they are not necessarily overly-dependent. They don't constantly pester people for attention, but prefer to "hang out" along their owners, investigating whatever activity you're involved with and "helping" after they can. They will not be, as a normal rule, known as "lap cats" but much like any personality trait there are many Maine Coons that will prefer laps. Most Maine Coons will continue close by, probably occupying the chair beside yours instead. Maines will adhere to you from room to room in addition to wait outside some sort of closed door for you to emerge. A Maine Coon will probably be your companion, your own buddy, your pal, but hardly ever your child.

Maine Coons usually are relaxed and easy-going in almost everything they do. The males are typically the clowns as you move the females retain additional dignity, but both remain playful during their lives. They generally get along properly with kids in addition to dogs, as properly as other kittens and cats. They are quite a bit less vertically-oriented as a few other breeds, preferring to chase objects on a lawn and grasping them of their large paws -- undoubtedly instincts developed as professional mousers. Many Maine Coons may play "fetch" because of their owners.

By James Torres For more information, pictures and videos you can visit us at http://www.catopia.info Article Source: EzineArticles

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What Is The Best Way To FEED YOUR CAT?

Think that your cat needs a fancy set of dishes to eat from?  He doesn’t.  But, what he does need is something that is sturdy and durable and it needs to be easy for you to clean as well.  Cat feeders and bowls should be cat-proof.

English: cat and dry food (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

One type of cat feeder is a type that refills from a reservoir as your cat drinks from the bowl.  These can be used to feed one cat for several days even.  You can use these to feed multiple cats too.  There are some disadvantages to using them though.  For example an aggressive cat can easily prevent the other shyer cats from getting enough food.  It is also harder to know just how much food the cat is eating so you may not realize if he is eating less than he normally does.  This is an important sign that he’s not feeling well and it can be a serious problem then.  Cats that are finicky may waste a lot of food by refusing to eat it if it has been sitting in the feeder for too long.

Another type to consider is the automatic cat feeder.  These have several compartments.  The feeder’s lid has an opening that will allow the cat to eat out of one compartment at a time.  A battery powers it to rotate the lid using a timer so that different compartments are opened at the set time.

Cat owners who are not around for a long period of time should make sure that the feeders that they use are large enough to hold enough food for the entire time the cat is alone.  This way, cats are cared for no matter what you are doing.

Cats who are territorial really do need their own dish.  Then, you can feed the different cats at different areas of the house.  When looking for bowls for your cat, make sure to look for those that can be put into the dishwasher as well as those that are not going to break.

Only have one cat?  Then look at a combination feeder that holds two bowls one for each food and water.  These allow you to keep the feeding organized and they are easy to clean.  The bowls can be removed from the feeder to be cleaned.

Some cats are picky and for these you may need to choose a heated food bowl.  These are a great way to provide local strays with water during the winter months too.

Make sure to clean the food bowls everyday.  Put them in the dishwasher if possible after throwing out the old food and dropping the dish in the dishwasher.  Don’t leave the food sitting out as it can spoil.  And, make sure to clean your cat’s water bowl daily as well.  Keep it full of clean fresh water.

When you do these things, you will provide your cat with a place to get their food that is clean, safe and keeps them happy.  This can help you to have a well taken care of cat.

Following these suggestions will go a long way to keeping you cat happy and well nourished. She'll love you all the more for it, too.

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How to Stop Your FRENCH BULLDOG from Excessively Barking

Dogs bark for many different reasons. Some of these reasons are good while some can just be downright annoying. So if you have had many countless sleepless nights, constant visit from the cops because of complaints from your neighbors or if you have simply had enough of all the barking making your home stressful instead of a relaxing solitude, then it’s high time that you do something that will make the excessive barking stop. And although the French Bulldog is generally known to be a quiet breed that barks only when needed, there will be times that they too will bark excessively. 

A female French Bulldog. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

French bulldogs are known to be great companions; they are very loyal but can be impatient. They will bark only when they demand attention from you, or when they play or if there are intruders in the house. But even then, they won’t really bark excessively, by that I mean that when you have given in to what they want, they will stop barking already. Some French bulldogs will go on to bark though, when this happens, you will surely become, disappointed, frustrated, annoyed, embarrassed, and this will cause an emotional strain and put a dent on your relationship.

The first step in stopping your French bulldog from excessively barking is to fully understand the cause as to why it is doing so. By determining the root cause, you can develop a training that will laser target the root cause of the problem. Remember though, if the dog is barking because it’s hungry, or there is an intruder in the house, don’t reprimand your dog, this will take away their natural instincts of being a good watchdog and companion. A dog should only bark because of the situation they are in, if the situation has changed they should stop. If not, then you have a dilemma, either the situation hasn’t been fully resolved, or they have a psychological or emotional problem, or a physical discomfort. 

For the latter, a visit to a veterinarian will solve the problem. For the first problems, you need to have a good training program not only to instill in your French bulldog the proper traits, but also to create a solid emotional bond between you and your pet. There are numerous techniques one can use to stop excessive barking in French bulldogs. Some will choose to use the reward system where they provide a treat after the dog follows their command; this reinforces the notion that they have done good. Just make sure to use a firm voice and never shout at them. Be sure to also have lots of patience. It takes time to train a dog. Also, remember not to hit your dog. 

Some though would use electronic gadgets to help stop excessive barking, like a laser pointer or a collar specifically designed to stop excessive barking. This though would not help in creating a bond between you and your French bulldog. 

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TEDDY BEAR Breed Information

Teddy Bear (Shih Tzu x Bichon Frise)

The Teddy Bear (Zuchon, Shichon) is a hybrid dog that is a result of a few different designer dog breeds. They can be the result of the Shih Tzu and the Bichon Frise, the Shih Tzu and the Poodle and the Bichon Frise and the Toy Poodle. In many cases the Teddy Bear breed can be a mix of all three of these breeds.
Size

Photo Flickr blsbee blue

The size of Teddy Bears will vary but generally the dog is rather small weighing in between 12 to 14 pounds and measuring no higher than 12 inches.

Coat and Color
All color variations of parent breeds are available in the Teddy Bear. Since they are multiple breeds mixed, sometimes more than just 2, they can come in so many different coat and color options all depending on the parents.

Grooming
This breed is a minimal shedding dog that has a very soft, fluffy coat that is reminiscent of the stuffed animal. This breed of dog needs frequent grooming in order to prevent their coat from becoming tangled. They need to be brushed daily and like all dogs they also need basic grooming such as brushing their teeth and trimming their nails on a regular basis.

Character and Temperament
They are a very people oriented dog that is extremely well mannered and friendly. The temperament of your Teddy Bear will depend on their breeding however they are typically affectionate and very playful. They are also extremely outgoing and very social and the get along with everyone especially children, other pets and dogs. They can grow very attached to their family and if left alone for too long can develop separation anxiety.

Training
Every combination of the parent breeds of the Teddy Bear is extremely intelligent so this means that they are extremely intelligent and eager to learn as well. They are people pleasing dogs so it is easy to train them as they do well on picking up commands and different tricks. However like other small dogs they can often be difficult to house train. A consistent routine can help them along with this.

Activity level
The Teddy Bear is not a very active dog so they need some kind of physical exercise either inside or outside to keep them in shape. They do need regular play on a daily basis but simple games and a daily walk will make a world of difference in behavior and energy level.

By F. Szczepanski Breeders Association of America Inc http://njpup.com/designer-mixes-for-sale Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=F._Szczepanski http://EzineArticles.com/?Teddy-Bear-Breed-Information&id=9118905

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The Popular Pet and Lap Dog: YORKSHIRE TERRIER

The Yorkshire terriers, or Yorkies, originated from Scotland but bred in England. They were molded to hunt rats, but nowadays they are popular as pets. In fact, their variety was one of the Top Dog Breeds of 2005. 

4 year old Yorkie, Leo (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

They usually grow being small and light varieties. Hence, owners do not mind having their pets on their lap almost all day. Moreover, this usual bonding activity usually transforms this lap dog into a bright, playful, and loyal companion pet.

The following are some of the basic facts breeders would really love to know about Yorkies:

Category: Toy (Terrier)

Living Environment: indoors (highly recommended); outdoors (fenced yard)

Coat: silky, glossy, long and fine; no undercoat

Colors: black when young but they attain the colors tan and blue as they mature . Height: between 8 and 9 inches

Weight: between 3 and 7 pounds

Temperament:

Naturally,

• they are territorial and like their privacy to be respected

• they are intelligent and fearless

• they are assertive and independent

When properly trained,

• they develop close affinity with older children

• they become really playful and lively

• they become extremely affectionate

• they do not mind having other pets at home

• they focus much of their attention and affection toward their owner

Breeders should note of the following health issues:

• Alopecia, or losing hair

• Cataract, or loss of transparency of one or both lenses of the eyes

• Cryptorchidism, wherein testicles do not descend into the scrotum

• Dwarfism

• Entropion, a disorder with the eyelid; lashes on the eyelid that irritate the eyeballs could lead to other complications

• Glaucoma, a condition that causes an increase pressure within the eye

• Hydrocephalus

• Keratoconjunctivitis sicca, or the reduction of tear production

• Low blood sugar

• Patellar luxation, a disorder in the kneecap

• Portosystemic shunt, or the accumulation of blood toxins in the liver

• Urolithiasis, an infection of the urinary tract leading to the formation of bladder stones.

 Care and Exercise:

• They require daily grooming.

• Ears and eyes must be cleaned and checked regularly.

• Dental hygiene must be regularly maintained.

• They are fit only for short strides.

• They should have a regular play time while lying under the sunbeams, chasing shadows, and joining tug-of-war.

Origin/History:

In the 19th century, a number of weavers from Scotland migrated to England and brought with them different terriers that were bred to hunt rats. Through time, these terriers were crossed and terriers with "broken hairs" were produced.

In 1870, a "broken-haired Scotch terrier" was named as a Yorkshire terrier by a reporter. He argued that the breed should be called as such because his types were bred in a town called Yorkshire.

Though the Yorkies were originally bred as working dogs, they became fashionable pets is England in the latter part of the Victorian era. In 1972, Yorkies were brought to the United States and became the country's favorite pet.

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You can say that the Yorkies developed into tough breeds because of their ancestors' reputation as rat-hunters. However, their size, and playful and bright character have actually captured the attention and affection of most pet owners. Most proud owners would boast that they have the great giants inside the bodies of these little dogs. If you want a small but terrible breed of dog, grab a Yorkie now! Just a friendly reminder, they would really need your attention and companionship than any other terriers.

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An Expert Guide To The ROTTWEILER: The Loving Guardian

The Rottweiler is a member of the Working Group and America's tenth most popular dog breed. They originated from Germany, where their huge build was used to pull butcher's carts and to herd cattle. They are often used as guard dogs due to their fearless and protective nature.

Thor (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

History

The Rottweiler's history could date back to Roman times, where it is believed that their ancestors were used to pull carts and accompany Romans armies to herd their cattle. After marching into Southern Germany around 73 A.D., armies would settle near the bank of the River Neckar in the state of Baden-Württemberg. The Romans built a city in this area and named it Rottweil. It is in this city that the Rottweiler we know today would arise.

In the Middle Ages, the Rottweiler was not only used for cattle, but also for bear hunting. In the 19th century, its popularity in cattle herding would sharply decline when cattle herding was made illegal. The Rottweiler continued to assist butchers, earning it the name 'Rottweiler Butcher's Dog'. This would later be shortened to the Rottweiler. In 1907, breeding groups strived to preserve the breed and it slowly made a comeback in popularity. They were used in both the first and second World Wars for their guarding skills and continue to be used as family protectors and in police work.

The Kennel Club in London recognized the breed in 1966 and the American Kennel Club recognized them in 1935.

Description

The following is derived from the AKC standard:

• Coat: Rottweiler's coats are medium length and are a tan/black color. They have tan markings above each eye, on the side of the snout, and on the cheeks.
• Head: The head is medium-sized, broad, and has a well-defined stop. Its nose is also broad and is always black. The eyes are dark. The lips are black and close fitting. The jaws are powerful and are strong and broad. Their ears are pendant and triangular.
• Body: They are a large-sized breed, weighing 85-130 lbs. The body is large and powerful, with a confident stance. The neck is muscular and medium length. The tail may or may not be docked. It has straight forelegs that are set in a wide stance.

Defects:

• A coat other than black/tan.
• Eye color other than brown.
• Cheek markings that cross over the bridge of the nose.
• Shy or timid behavior.
• Flanks that are tucked up.

Temperament

Rottweilers have received a large amount of bad press for their protective and fearless nature. However, the breed is known to be very mellow with its family and does well with children. This dog does require firm training and early socialization to channel its protective disposition and given a regular job so that it does not become aggressive. This dog is intelligent, courageous, and loving to its family. It does not do well with strange people or other animals, but friends of the family are usually welcomed.

Care

• Grooming: Rottweilers only need occasional brushing and bathed only when necessary.
• Living Situation: They can do well in an apartment if they are given daily exercise.
• Exercise: This breed requires at least 60 minutes of daily exercise, but they are mostly inactive indoors.
• Approximate Lifespan: 10-12 years
• Common Health Problems: Rottweilers can be prone to hip dysplasia, ACL damage, and are sensitive to heat.

The Rundown:

Those looking for a fierce protector and loving companion will find the perfect fit in a Rottweiler. This breed doesn't require much grooming and is relatively healthy, but they need to be trained early so that their protective nature does not turn into unnecessary aggression.

By Beth Fletcher Hi Beth here! I hope you like my article and for more about the Rottweiler breed click HERE. Visit All Dogs Stuff for all your dog supplies. Article Source: EzineArticles

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How To Find The Right CAT SITTING SERVICES

Cats are one of the most lovable and cute pets that you could ever imagine. While you are reading this, you might be patting them at this very moment. Due to their various colors and personality, more and more people love them. But you cant be with them every time. Sometimes you need to leave at work which makes them to be left alone inside your house.

Many people have come up with an idea to help owners have peace of mind. That is when the  cat sitting services Ottawa

have developed and become renowned. Did you know there are many establishments that are offering such kind of service. Companies provide sitters to their respective clients. But some important matters must be considered before anything else.

This is Milo the cat sitting on a desk. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Willingness to do the job. Interviewing a person beforehand is a good idea. Its also helpful on your decision making. When you conduct a question and answer portion to a sitter, you can rate their enthusiasm. If they answer you with ideas which you also agree, why not consider on him. He might be the one you are looking for.

Long years of experience. Professionals have the capacity to handle almost any kinds of situations even if its dangerous. You would only know if the person is the right one if he has been in the industry for a long time. Check his portfolio and know his credentials. Doing this kind of actions would help you identify the expertise of a sitter.

Insurance policy. Numerous services are also offering insurance policies to their customers. This is a sign that they take serious attention in doing their jobs. If you really wanted to ensure the condition of your pets, it would be better to hire a service which such kind of policy. With that, you could presume that there is nothing to feel anxious about.

Reliable. A trustworthy person should act professionally. If ever a sitter arrives late, do you think that he is still reliable enough. Make an agreement with him and create a schedule of the things that should be done. If he correctly follows it every time you leave, then you are surely relying in the right person. And you must be happy about it.

Composed. Sitters are professionals. Therefore, it should be expected from them that they will showcase a character that is calm. If unusual situations occur, they would know how to act. They wont have a problem in dealing with a situation. Which means they are quick and nimble in handling the things that should be work out.

Capable to evaluate the need of your cats. Sitters are expert individuals. However, not all of them are able to handle serious matters. For example, if your pets act in an unusual manner, they know what to do and how to solve the problem.

Since there are many sitters who are offering the same service to you, pick the right one. In order to do that, you should ask for some suggestions. It would be better if your friends would refer you a service they tried before. In that case, there is nothing to worry.

About the Author: Sharon Weeks "http://www.petminders.ca";Read more about How To Find The Right Cat Sitting Services.

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Transporting Your New PUPPY Home

In years past the normal way of getting your puppy would be looking in your local newspaper, calling the breeder, picking it up and taking it home. Those days are long past since the age of the Internet. The Internet has brought a new way of purchasing your puppy. It has opened up more avenues and more choices then the local paper could ever hope to offer. At any given time of day or night you can browse through the pet web sites and have a choice of color, size or breed as well as the locale the puppy you are looking at. The question you may have in your mind is that if you are looking at a puppy where the breeder is located in California and you live in New York, how I will get my new baby home. There are a few different avenues however there is one way that is best above all of them.

Puppies in a bin. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

A drive from New York to California would be out of the question for most but in this day in age there are many options available to buyers for transporting a baby home. The three most popular ways are as follows:

1. Breeders offering personal delivery for an extra charge.

2. Commercial transportation that specialize in transporting pets directly to your door.

3. Having your puppy shipped via airplane transport.

Some breeders for a small fee will bring your puppy right to your door. This gives you a chance to meet the person you are buying from as well as personal service. However there are some high risks to be aware of if you choose this method. Depending on where you live could make all the difference with this choice. Puppies driving in cars for long periods of time can get car sick, throw up all over the place and refuse to eat. Some will even refuse to go to the bathroom. Depending on the size of the puppy you are buying this could spell disaster especially if you are buying a Yorkie or a Maltese. The tinier the puppy being transported it also raises the risk. They can develop hypoglycemia; keel over and kick the bucket in just a matter of hours. Even if the puppy survives the trip the affect may still be seen days later. Some may want to blame the breeder for the puppy being sick but it may not be the case. Most will choose this method of transport if available; however a word of caution should be given when using this method.

Commercial transportation is another way to bring your new baby home. This service can be contacted by the breeder or the buyer to be set up. The cost is usually around five hundred dollars or less and they will bring your baby right to your door. Usually several weeks advance noticed will be needed if you intend on using this method. What they do is they get a list started of all their potential stops and carefully map out the route that will save the company the most time and expense. If you don’t happen to be within the vicinity they may not be able to fit you in and you may have to wait until the next trip or not at all. The drawbacks of course include the time it takes your puppy to get there when they get on the road. Once your puppy is on the way, it could take up to 3-7 days for that new baby to reach your doorstep. With this way of transport you are also dealing with the same problems with personal delivery but there are more. There is not just one puppy traveling but possibly twenty or more puppies. All twenty puppies in the back of the truck and let’s hope none of them have kennel cough, because your new family member may catch it since it’s airborne.

A buyer can have their puppy transported via airplane. Some would not even dream to have there new addition fly on an airplane. This however by far is the safest and quickest way to get your new baby to you. Delta Airlines has a Pets First program in which they offer some direct and quick flights to your local airport. The problem with them if it’s too cold or too hot they can’t ship. During good weather Delta is a good choice however there is another choice if you can’t fly Delta.

Continental Airlines is a good choice of flying live animals because everything they do with the puppy for the most part is air and heat controlled, thus being able to ship all year long. In all airlines the puppy is shipped in a special pressurized compartment below the plane. Each puppy is in its own container that the breeder provides which reduces any type of contamination or airborne illness. Most puppies arrive the same day they are shipped. Finally in a few hours your baby arrives at your local airport in which you are eagerly waiting the arrival. All of the airlines have different places where you would pick up your new family member. Some it would be the ticket counter; also you can pick up your baby at the cargo facility and others the baggage claim service office. Your breeder would let you know in advance where to go.

Buying a puppy these days is quick, easy and more convenient then ever. A decision will have to be made which way you would like your new baby delivered to you; as you can see above the choice is pretty clear. It is safe and economical costing around two hundred dollars. I have been shipping puppies for about three years now and also have been on the receiving end so I can say from experience, flying your new baby home is the best way.

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PET PASSPORT and PETS

EU pet passport with rabies vaccinations - EU-Heimtierausweis mit Tollwutimpfungen (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Pets require a passport when they travel from one country to another. The passport has official information about the animal in picture. Pet Travel Scheme or PETS, is a scheme which allows the easy obtainment of the pet passport with out going through quarantine. The animal can easily travel between member countries. Even the issue of passport is expedited through this scheme. They issue passport for even transport of pets. Some of the member countries are countries of the European Union along with the United Kingdom. The United Kingdom has been famous for rabies control in the past and that is the reason why they require six month quarantine period for imported animals. 

PETS’ scheme was introduced on October 1st, 2001. The scheme has also been rolled out in countries like the United States, New Zealand, Australia, and Canada. Pets travelling to countries other than the member countries require a valid passport and rabies vaccination.    

The pet passport has multiple forms which are in a small blur booklet or on pink A4 sheet. The passport contains the tattoo number of the animal or a microchip. A certification too is included, which has information about the rabies vaccination, which is signed by a veterinary surgeon that is officially approved. People usually confuse the passport with a purple colored small folder which is a folder that has records of the pet’s complete vaccination history.  

Some countries accept this passport alone and others ask for supporting documentations relating to the procedure that needs to be followed. All the documents are checked at the time of boarding and upon arrival, too. The pet can only be taken as cargo or excess baggage and not as a checked baggage. 

There are different requirements for different countries. The rules also differ for import and export of the pets. But there are certain specifications which are common. The pet should have a microchip implant beneath the skin. The chip should be according to the ISOP specification. Also, there should be a rabies vaccination certification. And there should be a proof that the vaccination is working, this can be done by taking a blood serology test, which shows that the pet is presently rabies free. 

Some countries demand that the pet should be treated for fleas, tapeworms, and ticks. It should be done within forty eight hours. The government certifications are documents which have information about the export of the animal. A letter should also be taken from the vet from whom they confirm the pet’s fitness for travelling. Each individual carrier also has their set of regulations about the export and import of the animal. 

Before travelling, the owner should thoroughly research the regulations of the arrival and departure points. The destination’s government website should be checked out because some countries ask for separate certificates for proof, to see whether the pet meets their requirements or not. The county’s consulate should also be contacted for details about the formal procedures. The travel crate should also be approved prior to the travel. The crate should have the appropriate food and water containers.

The owner can apply for the pet’s passport soon after it gets the vaccination certificate. If the rabies vaccination is out of date, the new vaccination must be given, but this will delay the passport procedure. In some cases, booster vaccination can also be given. While travelling, the pet shouldn’t be sedated, because heights can have an adverse affect on medication. Even most of the carriers do not allow sedated animals. The charges of every carrier vary on the type and size of the animal. Also, animals might not be taken by a particular route because of adverse temperatures as that can risk the health of the animal. The authorized travel route must be taken, in this case. 

If the required documents are missing the pet will be refused entry o the owner will be asked to put the pet for at least six months in quarantine

The Unique Characteristics Of The BICHON FRISE Breed

Bichons are a very popular dog breed to those who are allergy sufferers because they are one of many Hypoallergenic dogs. If you are interested in other dogs that are great for those who suffer with allergies, the following is a list of a number of Hypoallergenic dogs. This list is not exhaustive. However, you can easily research the many other Hypoallergenic breeds on the internet.

Non-Sporting Group (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

1) The Schnauzer
2) Yorkshire Terrier
3) Bedlington Terrier
4) Shih Tzu
5) Basenji
6) Chinese Crested
7) Samoyed
8) Italian Greyhound
9) Poodle
10) Xoloitzcuintli (Mexican Hairless)

Your Bichon Frise is unique and has a personality all his or her own. Even so, just as there are general guidelines for taking care of a baby, here are a few basic similarities in this particular breed that most Bichons will exhibit:

They do not like to be left alone for long periods. A Bichon left alone for more than a few hours on a regular basis can develop separation anxiety, which could mean chewed shoes!

Bichons can be hard to house-break. Be sure to stock up on puppy pads, plenty of paper towels, and patience. A kennel can help, too.

They love attention. Expect to see those two sparkling eyes and nose up-close often. It's a good thing Bichon Frise dogs do not shed, or you would likely be covered in white hair.

They are watchdogs, and will be kind enough to alert you to any guests, mail men, paper boys, visiting squirrels, and unique cloud formations.

There is a lot of home grooming needed so your Bichon Frise looks, and feels velvety soft. If you are not able to brush his or her coat out once a day, it should be done at least twice a week. Otherwise, the coat will become matted and tangled. 

Professional grooming visits are highly suggested every four or five weeks. Consider it a spa day for your pup. 

Bichons can be stubborn, but they are known to respond very well to training; especially when treats are involved.

Your Bichon Frise is a lively entertainer. They love to learn new tricks and show them off. Consider taking the time to teach them a few and don't forget those treats!

If you are interested in purchasing a Bichon Frise, it is always best to purchase your Bichon from a reputable breeder. The American Kennel Club is a great resource for finding one. A lot of how your puppy responds to you depends on how they've been treated before they arrive in your home. No animal acts out without reason and Bichons are not any different. If they are withdrawn and/or edgy there is most certainly a reason why. The American Kennel Club has specific standards for breeders they recommend. Starting your breeder search at their website would be a great place to start in finding your Bichon or any other breed.

By Johnn Williams Jr. Johnn Williams - A 25+ year aviation professional, pet enthusiast, musician and writer, leads a highly professional team in the publishing of quality books that educate and entertain the reader. Johnn's five star rated book: "Bichon Frise Unique Among Dogs" is an informative read that will benefit any Bichon Frise owner. You can find out more information on this book at http://mybichonfrise.com. For other guides by this author please go to: http://www.amazon.com/author/john_williams/. Article Source: EzineArticles

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SIBERIAN HUSKY - Information For Breeders And Buyers

The Siberian Husky is a purebred dog recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as a breed in 1930. The Siberian Husky is a descendent of the "Eskimo dog," or sled dog, and is also a member of the larger Spitz group of dogs which derived from the Arctic. It's Spitz relatives include the Chow Chow and Pomeranian. It's Eskimo dog relatives include the Alaskan Malamute and the Samoyed. The Siberian Husky has traits of both groups including the high-set, triangular ears and curled, furry tail of the Spitz and the thick, double coat of insulating fur and overall wolf-like appearance of the Eskimo dog and other huskies.

Siberian Husky - Photo by Marlin2121 

Siberian Huskies were brought to Alaska in 1909 to participate in sledding competitions. Their endurance and intelligence helped the husky win many sled races. This dog breed is more commonly used in American Kennel Club competition than sledding races today, but the traits needed to pull sleds are still the characteristics needed to win.

The behavioral traits common to Siberian Huskies can be problematic for the wrong owner. Like wolves, Siberian Huskies howl. This excessive howling can come as a surprise to an unsuspecting owner. Huskies are independent, stubborn, energetic, pack animals that require specific care and training to maintain their happiness and health. Siberian Husky breeders will not sell puppies to owners who are not educated about the breed. This is because there are a disproportionate number of huskies sitting in shelters and rescue centers because their uneducated owners wanted a beautiful dog but failed to research the behavioral characteristics of the breed. Siberian Huskies are considered one of the top elevem dogs that increase homeowner's insurance due to their tendency to escape and run. Other "bad" dogs on this list include Rottweilers and Pit Bulls.

Siberian Huskies, like wolves, have a pack mentality and are unhappy and bored without constant interaction with either humans or other dogs. They require adequate room to run and will become destructive if tied up or cooped up in a pen. They have a lot of fur and, thus, a lot of fur to shed. Potential owners must know how to care for their husky before buying.

Siberian Husky breeders will not sell purebred huskies to just anyone. In fact, breeders may have more questions for potential buyers than buyers have for the breeders. Because of the high incidence of abandonment of this breed, breeders will want to ensure potential owners are a good match for a Siberian Husky.

To find reputable Siberian Husky breeders, it is important to make sure they live in a cool climate as huskies are made for cold weather and can suffer heatstroke in high temperatures. Other traits to look for in a good breeder include the following: the breeder maintains their own kennels, their huskies have received appropriate medical screening and immunizations, the breeder does not breed huskies with known medical conditions or behavioral problems, they do not sell to pet stores or pet brokers, the kennels are clean and meet huskies' training and social needs, they are experts on the breed and affiliated with purebred rescue centers, they have good references such as the AKC (American Kennel Club), they interview buyers to ensure they are a good match and they are willing and able to provide Siberian Husky information.

By Andrew A Preston Andrew Preston is a dog lover who is familiar with Siberian Husky breeders, and has experience raising Samoyeds, which are close Husky relatives. Siberian Husky breeders should educate potential owners about the wolf-like behavioral traits of this beautiful breed. This article provides general Siberian Husky information and information about locating reputable Siberian Husky breeders. Article Source: EzineArticles

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TOY POODLE Puppy - Puppies of the World

Toy Poodle Puppy - Puppies of the World

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YORKIEPOO Breed Information

The Yorkiepoo is a designer dog that was bred by crossing the Yorkshire terrier with the miniature or a toy poodle. There are well known for being one of the few varieties of hypoallergenic dogs and are not recognized by most kennel clubs. The Yorkiepoo was originally trained to be a trainable lap dog.

It takes on both the characteristics of their parent breeds.

Photo by kaylaheineman

History
The Yorkiepoo was developed by crossing the Yorkshire terrier with the toy poodle. Many breeders are also now crossing the Yorkshire terrier with the miniature poodle as well. This creates a wide variation in sizes and weights of the Yorkiepoo. Those breeders that are truly dedicated to creating a new breed of dog will only breed toy poodles with Yorkshire terriers. This practice will eventually result in a more reliable size in addition to weight limit for this cross breed dog.

Diet
Yorkiepoos should be fed a diet of high quality Kibble. Unfortunately they can be rather picky eaters. A tiny amount of canned food can be mixed in with their dog food in an effort to get them to eat. Without eating dry dog food the Yorkiepoo can suffer from gum disease, tooth loss and bad breath.

Training
This is a very easily trainable dog as they are incredibly eager to please their owners. Positive training methods should be used with this dog as rewards like food will be highly effective in training this breed. You need to be careful though to not get to use to feeding them treats when you're trying to train them as you do not want your dog to become obese. This breed can quickly learn basic commands and can even learn fun tricks like crawl or play dead. They are incredibly enthusiastic to entertain so they will be very willing to learn what you want to teach them. This hybrid dog has been used in dog sports like agility and is also a therapy dog.

Weight
Yorkiepoos should range and weights from between 5 to 12 pounds and need to stand between 7 to 10 inches tall.

Temperament
The Yorkiepoo is a very lively dog that attaches quickly to their family. This hybrid dog is extremely affectionate and loves to be with their people. This is not a breed that does well being left alone in a crate or by themselves for long periods of time. If they are left alone for long periods of time they will tend to bark excessively and other behavioral issues. They would do best to be with the family that can spend a lot of time with them. They are very friendly so they will not make good watchdogs as they will happily great everyone that comes into their house.

By F. Szczepanski Breeders Association of America Inc - http://njpup.com/financing    Article Source: EzineArticles

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How Is Your PIT BULLl’s Diet?: Dog Nutrition Tips

Part of being a loving, responsible Pit Bull owner is providing him with the proper diet to ensure he stays healthy. Many owners believe just because they purchase the most expensive brands of dog food for their Pit Bull that he is getting all of the vitamins and nutrients he needs, but often times, that is not the case. Humans can’t meet all of their nutritional requirements by eating one particular food, and neither can your Pit Bull. You are the one who is in control of this day to day aspect of your Pit Bull’s life, so essentially his health is up to you.

Daddy (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

It is important to try to make sure your Pit Bull’s diet consists of all the vitamins and nutrients he needs to be healthy. A lack of vital vitamins and nutrients can cause your Pit Bull to have stomach problems, bones that break easily, and have weight problems. You can take the best care of your Pit Bull, but if he doesn’t have a proper diet, it isn’t going to make any difference. Diet also plays a role in your dog’s ability to fight off disease and infection, much the same as it does with humans. Your veterinarian can help made recommendations to help you provide the best diet possible for your Pit Bull.

When purchasing food for your Pit Bull, you should get a variety. Mixing up dry food and canned food will help give you a good mixture of ingredients and nutritional value that should help you to cover all the bases. Your dog will also enjoy the different textures of the food. They also enjoy bones and meant flavored treats.

Pit Bulls prefer dog foods made of meat, as they are primarily carnivores. Meat is a good source of energy and helps your Pit Bull grow, but he also needs fiber and carbohydrates to help with food absorption.

Many Pit Bulls also love to eat vegetables, hard to believe, huh? Check with your veterinarian first to make sure it is okay, then try it out. If your Pit Bull likes them, he will be getting plenty of additional vitamins and nutrients that dog food alone may not offer. It will also help to add some variety into his diet.

Making certain your Pit Bull’s diet is up to par is one of your responsibilities as a loving owner. It is important to talk to your veterinarian to see what his thoughts are and what he recommends, but whatever you decide, your Pit Bull’s health depends on you making smart choices on his behalf.

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