A DOG'S DIET Influences Oral Health

Charcoal dog biscuit, marketed as Winalot Shapes (a mixture of biscuits). (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Your dog is your very best friend.  Every single time you walk through the door your dog is so happy to see you that he wags his tail and practically smiles at you.  How can you show your pet how much they mean to you?  Well, one way is to take care of that smile for your pet.  Did you know that your dog's diet can influence their oral health?

Humans need to brush and floss their teeth regularly to keep their teeth, tongue, and gums in good condition.  Research has recently shown a link between good oral health in humans and a lower risk of heart disease.  If good oral health can have such a profound affect on people, then it only makes sense to consider the impact it can have on man's best friend.

It is important to brush your dog's teeth frequently to keep plaque and tartar from becoming an issue.  Even wiping his gums with a clean, damp cloth can be beneficial.

Your dog's diet also plays a role in your pet's oral health.  Do you typically feed your dog canned or dry dog food?  What kind of treats and toys do you provide for your pet?  All of these things can affect the likelihood of trouble with your pet's teeth.

When your dog's diet is nutritionally sound, containing essential vitamins, nutrients, and enzymes, your pet's oral health will be at its very best.  Feeding dry dog food rather than a moist canned variety is best for your dog.  The tiny kibbles' hard surface rubs against the teeth to remove and reduce plaque.  The simple act of moistening the dry dog food with water or gravy eliminates this property from dry dog food.

The treats you give your pet are part of your dog's diet just like snacks are part of a person's diet.  As humans, we tend to want to overlook our snacking habits, so it can be easy to overlook the treats you give your dog.  This is not a good idea.  Carefully consider any and all items your dog will consume.

Do you give your dog bones, rawhides, jerky treats, or dog biscuits?  Maybe your pet prefers greenies or corn starch chews.  You may not have considered it, but tossing Spot a rawhide chew is like giving him a candy bar.  The rawhide, for example, contains calories and is often provided between meals.

Many of the treats and snacks you provide in your dog's diet can be just empty wasted calories.  Some treats, alternatively, provide excellent opportunity to improve oral health.  Greenies, rawhides, bones, and hard dog biscuits all help to keep tartar at bay.  The softer snacks, such as jerky treats, do not provide much relief from plaque.  The healthy treat, on occasion, will also prevent your dog from having bad breath.

Your dog's diet must be healthy to ensure excellent oral health.  Dry dog food is best whenever possible.  Don't forget to select treats for your pet that will enhance your dog's diet.  Consciously monitoring your dog's diet will positively influence your  best friend's oral health.

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Could Your Dog Have WHIPWORM? How To Detect And Treat Whipworm In Your Dog

Egg from Trichuris vulpis (canine whipworm) seen through a microscope at 400x. The egg is operculated at both ends. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

When it comes to keeping your canine companion healthy both inside and out, it's important for owners to know which parasites see your dog as the perfect host.

One of the lesser-known parasites that pose a danger to dogs is the whipworm. Whipworms, like most parasites, are resilient. In egg form, their hard shells allow them to survive outdoors in the soil for years at the time. In many ways, whipworms are like hookworms, but instead of ending in a hook shape, one end of this worm tapers to a narrow, whip-like point.

Unlike hookworms, whipworms can't enter the body through the skin. The only way for your dog to contact them is by eating the eggs. Whipworms exist throughout North America, and transmission is easy if your dog has any contact with other dogs. The long-lived eggs can show up in the soil, dog toys, discarded bones and water dishes. Once eaten, whipworms then grow to maturity inside your dog's digestive system.

When they reach maturity, the adult worms fasten themselves to the large intestine and the cecum, a transitional pouch between the large and small intestine. Here, these nasty little parasites slash and puncture the intestinal walls in order to feed. The female starts to lay her eggs, which the dog excretes through the faeces.

Symptoms for whipworm resemble those for other worms, such as hookworm. Many dogs can carry a certain number of whipworms without showing distress, but past a certain point, your dog may begin to exhibit signs such as a dull coat, anaemia, rapid weight loss, and a loose and bloody stool. He may also begin vomiting up a yellow-green substance. In very severe cases, the worms may begin to puncture the intestinal wall, to the degree that the intestine begins to stick to the body wall. In this case, you might see your dog licking and worry his right flank.

When you take your dog to the vet, it may take some time to diagnose him with whipworm. Whipworms lay eggs only intermittently, and even when they’re actively releasing eggs, any diarrhoea in your dog can make the eggs hard to find. Typically, vets will perform four stool samples over four days before ruling out whipworm.

If your vet finds whipworm eggs, she'll administer a potent dewormer. But all whipworm dewormers on the market are only effective against worms in their adult form. As a result, you'll probably need to re-treat your dog.

There are no simple and effective ways of removing whipworm eggs from the soil around your house. However, a contaminated environment can infect your dog over and over again. The best way to combat reinfestation is to make sure your dog's quarters are sunny and dry since whipworm eggs require moisture. Try to place him in an area of fresh new gravel, pavement or soil.

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Related articles

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• Healthy pets, healthy humans

DOBERMAN - A Guide To The Breed

Two Doberman Pinschers (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Originally called the Doberman Pinscher, the Doberman breed was created from several breeds by a German, Karl Louis Dobermann in around 1890. Dobermann was a Tax collector, night watchman and dog catcher and needed a protection dog to guard him as he travelled around the dangerous bandit-infested areas around Thueringen, South Central Germany. He spent 60 years perfecting the ultimate loyal, intelligent, ferocious protection dog before the first Doberman was registered in 1893.

Many breeds are thought to have been used in the creation of the Doberman including Rottweillers and Great Danes for size and strength, greyhounds for speed and Manchester Terriers for there sleek coat. Other breeds that are thought to have been used are the German Shepherd Dog, the Pinscher, the Beauceron, the Thuringian Shepherd Dog, the Weimaraner and the German Shorthaired Pointer.

Dobermann died shortly after the first registration of the Doberman breed and Otto Goeller and Philip Gruening took up cultivation of the breed in Germany.

During World war one the Doberman suffered along with the rest of the country and the few remaining dogs were going to be put down as no one could afford to keep them. They were saved however by American servicemen who grew fond of them and took them home, thus initiating the American breeding program. During World War II Dobermans were used by the US Marines to flush out the enemy which gave them the name 'Devil Dogs'. 25 Dobermans died in the Battle of Guam in 1944 and there is a memorial in Guam in honour of these dogs.

After the war, the Doberman breed became known in England and a Doberman club formed in 1948. A couple called the Curnows, using the kennel name of Tavey, dedicated themselves to establishing the Doberman in England. They began with European stock but then decided that the American Doberman was more elegant and larger and started their breeding program again.

Doberman can have a fiery temper and can become excitable but they are intelligent and bond very closely with owners and family. Those training a Doberman need to teach plenty of socialisation skills and training from an early age. A well-bred Dobie trained by an experienced handler is an excellent pet and companion and is suitable for families with other dog breeds and children.

The most common colour for a Doberman is black but there are two different colour genes. The first is Black and the second is a colour dilution gene which provides four different colours, black, red, blue and fawn. This means that there is a various colour of Doberman depending on how the genes are mixed.

In 1976 a white Doberman bitch was born and was subsequently bred to her son, continued tight breeding meant that the mutation became fixed and has now become widely marketed. These albino Doberman though have increased the risk of disease and abnormal development of the retina so must avoid too much sun exposure. These problems have made the albino breed unpopular as many people perceive this breeding of a mutant dog to be cruelty.

Traditionally Doberman has they tails and ears cropped. The ears cropped for reasons related to traditional guard duty and effective sound localisation. This is normally done between 7 and 9 weeks of age but some owner does not have this procedure done as it is painful for the dog. The process involved trimming off part of the ear and propping up with posts, tape and bandages with encourages the cartilage to grow in an upright position.

By Steve Batchelor - Article Source: EzineArticles

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DOG CLOTHES - Fad, Fun Or Functional??

Photo  by annrkiszt 

Your dog is not just a pet. Your dog is not just an animal. Your dog is a bona FIDO member of the family!! So, of course, your dog needs to dress the part – right?

Well, thanks to the internet and the many online boutiques you can dress your dog for every occasion from the comfort of your own home. No more “granny’ knitted sweaters for your sophisticated canine!! But is dressing up your dog just something that you like to do? Is there any benefit to your dog? It all depends on why you bought the clothes!!

A Dog Coat can be a very useful item of clothing for your dog. It can keep him warm in the cold weather, dry in the wet weather and can protect him from infections in the same way that our clothes protect us. It can also keep him clean which may be especially useful after a romp in the park on a wet winter’s day. Just take the coat off after it’s dirty and keep most of the dirt contained. Then you can let your clean(ish) dog into the car which helps keep the car cleaner. Dog coats come in many different styles and colors so pick the coat that's most appropriate for its use. And of course what dog would be seen out without the matching doggie hat??

Just like people wear, you can get ‘designer’ labels for your dog to make him feel like a million dollars, (and it probably costs that too). Many celebrities always have their dogs dressed in the latest doggie fashion. A practice that Paris Hilton with Tinkerbell has raised to an art form, or so it seems!

Apart from coats and sweaters, other useful dog clothing items include dog t-shirts and dog sunglasses. These can look cute but they do also serve to help protect your pet. The sunglasses can protect him from UVA and UVB rays and the t-shirt helps protect his skin. Dogs can develop skin cancer the same way that people can and this is one of the main cancers in dogs. And you thought it was just to make Fido look cute!!

As you can see, getting clothing for your dog is not just vanity on your part, although it is fun dressing up your dog. It can also play a vital role in keeping your dog healthy and happy. And if you do get the urge to step out on the wild side – get your dog some formal wear or a great costume for Halloween – go on have fun and buy your dog some great clothing today!!

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The Importance Of TAURINE For Cats

Gretel Eating Meat (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

By nature, cats are very much carnivores. In order for them to live the healthiest - not to mention happiest - lives imaginable, it's important for them to take in sufficient amounts of meat from day to day. This is where the role of protein comes into play, though it's clear that some cats are not able to process this nutrient as well as others. I believe that this is why taurine is such a crucial talking point and one that Assisi can help to lead.

For those who do not know, taurine is a type of amino acid that pet owners may bring into the diets of their cats. It's not like this type of nutrient is hard to come by, seeing as how it is normally found in various types of fish and other meats. As a result, you can be certain that cats will require it in large amounts as well. You may wonder what can happen if cats are unable to process protein normally. To say that it would be unfortunate probably goes without saying.

Protein deficiency is unfortunate, to say the least, and there are a number of problems it can start as well. For instance, it's been said that the eyesight of cats can be negatively affected by a lack of protein, even to the point of blindness. What about tooth decay, which only hampers the issues related to a protein with cats? Pet owners must figure out solutions to this matter and I believe that there are quite a few worth looking into.

If you want to know about the ways in which Assisi can prove to be of help, it's important to look at the medical side of the situation. Veterinarians have been exposed to the issue of protein metabolism, and how many cats cannot go about it well. As a result, they can either tell you about different solutions or prescribe medication. When it comes to the aforementioned solutions, the increase of high-quality protein sources may be focused on. Take your vet's advice; your cat's health will be better for it.

There's no denying the fact that protein is a nutrient that every cat needs. It's one that can come in many forms, be it standard cat food or meat itself. However, it's not enough for the products themselves to be consumed, as nutrients have to process in the body. Cats go about this at different paces, which means that specific diets may be required for them. For this reason, you - as well as your cat - will be best served if you consult your vet.

About the Author: Robin Setser Would you care for further pet care details? Contact Assisi Animal Health today... Check here for free reprint license: Assisi & The Importance Of Taurine For Cats.

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Affectionate Houdini - The SIBERIAN HUSKY

A "sable"- colored Siberian Husky.
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Siberian Huskies were originally a working dog, bred to withstand very cold (-50 degrees F) temperatures and to pull sleds. They were also bred to find their own food and to have very low food requirements. Also, the dog was developed as a pack animal - the pack primarily being the other dogs in the dog sled team. Consider carefully your selection of a Siberian Husky. This breed is not recommended for a new dog owner or even an experienced dog owner that does not have the time or will not take the effort to train the dog. Best training efforts are to spend 15 to 30 minutes a day, every day to train the dog. The Siberian Husky is independent and intelligent and expects to have a pack leader. As the owner you must be the pack leader, however, that leadership cannot involve corporal punishment of the dog. 

They will respond much better to a consistent and controlled environment. The breed is very affectionate with pack members, does well with children and other pets. They even enjoy strangers - so they do not make a great watchdog.

Another consideration for the Siberian Husky is that they are escape artists. Typically, a fence at least 6 feet tall and buried a couple feet in the ground are needed. They have been known to clear fences as tall as 8 feet. This is remarkable, as the dog is typically about 20 to 24 inches tall and weighs about 40 to 60 pounds. Siberians Huskies are capable of breaking tie-out chains, chewing through collars and leads, and jumping over or digging under fences. Electronic dog collar systems do not work due to the thickness of the fur (more on that later). The breed can be destructive to flower beds and yards, so they should have a designated digging spot, as they will dig, it is just a matter of where.

The coat of a Siberian Husky is a double coat and very thick and requires weekly brushing. In warm climates, the dog will shed heavily for about 3 weeks a couple times a year. This is referred to as "blowing the coat". This is very descriptive of what happens and the fur will come off in hands full. Brushing is required during this time of the year, as well as weekly throughout the year. Grooming requirements for this breed are very high and require a time investment on a regular basis. The thick fur will insulate the dog from hot temperature as well as cold, but the Siberian Husky is more comfortable in a colder climate. They also shed less in cooler climates. Toenails should be trimmed frequently, at least monthly. The good news is that the breed does not emit the "dog smell" we detect in other breeds.

A healthy dog, the Siberian Husky, will live for about 12 to 15 years. There are very few health problems with the breed. They are a high energy dog and do not adapt well to apartment living. The bred does not bark, but it does howl, much to the dismay of owners and neighbors! Care should be taken to socialize the dog with other pets and children. While the Siberian Husky is affectionate and not typically aggressive, they can try to establish pack dominance over other animals and children. They also have a high prey drive and wanderlust potential. Remember they were bred to find their own food and they are great escape artists! They will try to get out of any enclosure just to see what is on the other side and run if given the chance.

By Doug Fabick - Article Source: EzineArticles

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EGYPTIAN MAU - Cats of the World

Egyptian Mau - Cats of the World

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ARTHRITIS IN DOGS – What You Can Do To Help Your Dog

Bilateral hip dysplasia in a Labrador Retriever puppy. The left hip (positioned on the right side in the X-ray) is worse than the right hip, with only slight coverage of the head of the femur by the acetabulum.
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Canine Arthritis is a common ailment as dog’s age. It is similar to humans as calcification and inflammation cause joint pain and reduced activity. Some forms of arthritis like Canine Hip Dysplasia can develop early in life due to genetics and diet.  Fortunately, arthritis in dogs can be treated.

Treatments for canine arthritis range from natural supplements using chondroitin and glucosamine, to veterinary prescribed drugs such as Rimadyl and Deramaxx.  Studies and actual results have shown that natural supplements can be extremely effective in fighting the effects of arthritis in dogs without the potentially dangerous side effects of Rimadyl and Deramaxx.  Before deciding which treatment option is best for your dog, you should observe the signs of dog arthritis.

Signs of Dog Arthritis

1.  Limping and general reduced activity.

2.  Favoring one or both of the front or back limbs.

3.  Morning activity or cold weather makes the dog less active.

4.  Difficulty rising from a resting position, especially in the morning.

5.  Pain to the touch.

6.  Reluctance to jump.

If you suspect your dog has arthritis, you should know the different forms or types of arthritis. The most common disorders are listed below.

Types of Dog Arthritis

1.  Osteoarthritis – Also known as canine arthritis or dog arthritis, it is the most common form of arthritis and most easily treated.  Develops slowly as the dog ages.

2.  Rheumatoid Arthritis - This is an immune-mediated disease and can affect the whole body. Several joints can be affected and the lameness can come and go without notice. Considered a more serious condition than dog osteoarthritis.

3.  Degenerative Disc Disease - This is where the discs in the vertebrae develop calcification and become rigid. They become less able to withstand compression. This can lead to a severe injury and paralysis if the discs rupture or become herniated.

4.  Stifle Joint Disorder - This is a condition in which the knee and joint become unstable. This is usually from a stretched or torn ligament. This can also cause the joint cartilage to become damaged and inflamed.

5.  Canine Hip Dysplasia - This is caused by looseness in the socket connecting the thighbone and hipbone. This development usually occurs when the dog is young but can develop at any age.  A      common sign is to hear a clicking sound when the dog walks.

Treatment Options

1.  Natural Supplements – Most natural supplements use chondroitin and/or glucosamine as its primary ingredient.  All of the glucosamine forms originate and are extracted from shellfish. chondroitin is derived from animal cartilage.  Many products like Free and Easy for Dogs use glucosamine and chondroitin and combine additional supplements to provide a synergistic effect. Besides glucosamine and chondroitin, some of the more popular and effective supplements added are msm, ester-c, and hyaluronic acid.  Many studies have been done which have proved the effectiveness of these supplements in humans.  Dog owners have also reported many positive outcomes for their dogs using these natural supplements.

2.  Rimadyl & Deramaxx - These drugs are obtained by prescription only. They are called NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug). Rimadyl was introduced by Pfizer Pharmaceuticals in January 1997 to help treat dogs with inflammation and pain associated with surgery or canine arthritis. It is effective but it must be used with caution. Search Google for  "What Your Vet May Not Tell You About Rimadyl" for more detailed information. At a minimum, you need to have blood work done to monitor the liver enzymes to ensure your dog doesn't have a toxic reaction to the drugs.

3.  Surgery - Surgery can be an easy decision or a very difficult decision. Often, money is a concern and some surgeries like disc surgery can cost around $3,500. Often, the age of the dog has to be considered when making this decision. And the outlook and prognosis are very important.  You do not want the dog to suffer unnecessarily. At the very least, you should only consider surgery after ensuring an accurate diagnosis has been made.  This may involve taking x-rays and a myelogram. A myelogram is done by injecting dye in the spinal canal to enable your doctor to detect abnormalities of the spine, spinal cord, or surrounding structures.

Summary - Dog Arthritis can be a very debilitating disease if left untreated. Dog owners should pay close attention to their animals and take prompt action when symptoms are noticed. Often a natural supplement is all that is needed to help your dog.  Sometimes more aggressive treatments are needed such as surgery.  The most important thing is to notice and diagnose the problem and then decide what treatment is best for your dog.

Copyright 2006 William Smith

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The EGYPTIAN MAU - Breed Information

 Egyptian Mau cat.  (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Many cat owners favor one of the more unusual breeds. If you are looking for, or just interested in, rare and unusual breeds of cat, then you may like to consider the Egyptian Mau, which is not only a rare cat, but it is also one of the oldest breeds. It is recognizable by its spotted fur. Additionally, the Mau is extremely fast, beating every other domestic cat for speed.

Breed History

The age of the Egyptian Mau is not definitively known, but it could be argued that it is the oldest breed, dating back to Ancient Egypt. Several thousands of years ago, the Egyptian Mau was a feral cat, which roamed free and was worshipped by the Egyptian people who believed that cats were gods. Some cat experts claim that the Egyptian Mau may be a direct ancestor of the modern domestic cat, but, again, this cannot be definitively ascertained.

During the 1980s, a new breed, the American Keuda, was created and the Egyptian Mau was used in the breeding program to develop the new breed. Today, the Egyptian Mau is one of the rarest breeds; it is believed that only 3000 of them exist worldwide.

Personality Traits

All cats have different characteristics that are typical of their breed. Most cats are known for loving a spot close to a cozy fire, but the Egyptian Mau is particularly fond of warm temperatures. This is perhaps unsurprising when you consider its country of origin.

Additionally, Maus is said to make sounds that are unlike other cats, they are often described as being able to chortle, chirp and even sing. Of course, one of the most striking features of the Mau is, as mentioned above, its speed. In fact, the fastest Mau was recorded at 36miles per hour.

Breed Standards

As previously mentioned, the Egyptian Mau is spotted. Interestingly, it is the only breed, which is officially recognized, that has spots without the help of selective breeding. In other words, it is the only breed to become spotted through natural selection rather than human intervention. Even more intriguing is that the spots of an Egyptian Mau are not merely found on the fur. In shaved Maus, the spots are still visible on the skin.

A Mau's hind legs are significantly longer than his, or her, front legs. This fact has a large impact on the incredible speeds that the breed is able to achieve. In addition, the breed has a section of loose skin around the abdomen, which is also beneficial in running, because it allows the cat to take a much longer stride than would otherwise be possible.

All purebred adult Egyptian Maus have green eyes. In addition, it is bred in five colors, but only three are considered show standard: Silver, smoke, and bronze. The other two colors, blue and black, are still bred nonetheless.

With any animal, but especially with rare breeds, such as the Egyptian Mau, it is important for any potential owner to do some homework about the breed. Ensure that you know all there is to know before making the commitment to own a pet.

In addition, seek out a reputable breeder, again this is particularly important when looking for rare breeds. You should be able to identify reputable breeders in the phonebook or on the internet, but if you're having trouble finding a local cat breeder, you may find information from a shelter or veterinarian.

By Samantha Markham - Article Source: EzineArticles

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Advice For Your First SHETLAND SHEEP DOG

Shetland Sheepdog - (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Planning of getting a dog, like Shetland sheepdog, is definitely a life-changing decision to make. Your new pet will have his share of the time you originally devoted to yourself and family. Costs of high-quality dog foods, regular vet checkups, training and other needs will also increase the height of your monthly expenses. However, if you are well aware of the things needed to raise a pet and ready to provide these things, then there is no reason for you not to bring home your first Shetland sheepdog.

Shetland sheepdogs, although bred to be small, are great herding dogs and many of them do have a strong herding instinct. They tend to chase and herd animals like squirrels and ducks. Also, never leave your pet alone with the kids. Kids can be rough when playing with the dog and besides, even kids are not exempted from being herded by a sheltie. Be wary that a kid running across the yard may trigger your pet's herding instinct. The best way to deal with this is to educate kids on how they are going to react when this happens. When the sheltie starts to nip, running away and making noise is discouraged for it will only encourage the dog to do more. But staying calm and saying "no" in a firm voice can help get the dog to stop what he's doing.

Being small dogs, they are at risk of acquiring human-induced behavior called Small Dog syndrome. Dogs with Small Dog syndrome believes that he is the leader of the pack and must keep his humans in line. However, this problem subsides when the human surrounding the dog shows proper leadership in addition to exercise and daily walks that keep him physically and mentally busy.

Grooming this breed seems difficult given their double coat, with the outer coat that is usually long and rough and inner coat that is thick yet soft. Regular brushing (at least once every week) will suffice however frequency is encouraged to increase the beauty and make the coat tidier. They are known to shed twice every year, usually during spring and winter. Females will also shed right before or after giving birth.

While the above-mentioned information can be helpful to you in raising your first Shetland sheepdog, you can still increase your knowledge concerning proper dog ownership. Your trusted friends (sheltie owners), veterinarian and breed club members can be great mentors as well.

By Richard Cussons Richard Cussons understands that every Shetland sheepdog needs proper care and training. Check out sheltiesavvy.com to learn more about this breed and how to become expert in training shelties. Article Source: EzineArticles

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Read Your CAT`S BODY LANGUAGE - Know Your Pet More

Scottish Fold Shorthair  Wikipedia)

Meow! That is the sound you hear when you meet your cat walking down the doorway. It will move with his head and tail held high, looking directly at your eyes and emitting a faint sound summoning you to follow wherever it goes. That is your cat? Right? The fluffy little mass, whose behavior seems quite odd at times, and leaves you baffling with a variety of questions. 

Have you ever thought that your cat is an aloof creature to you? Then it is because you do not understand it. Your cat is always trying to communicate to you through its gestures and body language, so to know your cat more, you need to know more about the cat’s body language. The sweeping of the tail,  or rubbing of the cheeks, pricking of the ears or purring under breath - each has a significance of its own. Your cat will often rub its cheeks against you or against the cheeks of another cat. Through this, it actually tries to pick up or leave scent markers so that it can again create a future physical contact.

Importance of tail movement

The tail is the most important part of your cat’s body, to indicate a variety of actions and reactions. The tail often denotes its mood and intention. If your cat is sweeping its tail in broad gestures, then it symbolizes annoyance or impatience at your excessive petting. If you continue to cuddle the cat might result in growling softly or giving you a “bat” with its paws. A rapid sweeping of tail back and forth, right from the center shows an extreme agitation in your cat. 

If you find your cat turning its body fully sideways and extending its bristled tail upwards, then be sure that your cat is heralding a conflict with the fellow cats. When your cat is busy trapping a prey, you will find it to be more cautious, involved in subtle movements and inflating its tummy while all the time intently aiming at the prey. Often you will find your cat lowering its tail to tuck it between her legs, which show her complete obedience. A raised tail also indicates that your cat wants to be friendly, and a twitching of the tail will confirm its anticipation to be with you after the whole day of outing.

Movement of other body parts

Along with the tail, the cat’s body gestures speak volumes about its mood and behavior. While bent legs denote defending of self, outstretched legs will denote self-confidence and self-assurance. If the cat’s ears are back and the body low, it will impart its shame or remorse; pricked ears will denote interest in the happenings around it. If you find your cat with the head completely lowered then it will show boredom and be sneaking subtly with its head lowered on the ground should make you aware of the full-fledged assault on the victim ahead.

Knowledge about these kitty-cat behaviors will definitely strengthen the bond between you and your cat.

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Tips on Buying a HYPOALLERGENIC DOG

If you suffer from allergies, you are not alone. Even though most people suffer from some type of allergy, whether it is food, plant, or pet, they can usually find a way to enjoy their lives, which in many cases, includes having a few pets. Depending on the severity of your allergies, you will be able to bring a dog into your home as long as you take the time to find the breed that is right for you.

Hypoallergenic dogs are specific breeds that shed less hair and dander than other dogs and produce fewer allergens in their saliva and urine. You should keep in mind that all breeds carry a certain amount of allergens, but hypoallergenic dogs carry less. Allergens can become stuck in carpets, on walls, and in bedding and clothing. This is why people have allergic reactions to their pets. In order to have pets, these allergens must be removed through frequent house cleaning, designating certain spots in the house for your pets to sleep, and by finding pets that have shorter hair and do not shed their skin cells as often.

When looking for a hypoallergenic dog, you should research breeds that have short hair, shed their skin cells (dander) every few weeks rather than every few days, and do not produce as much saliva. Since allergies can occur at different times in your life, you should spend some time with the breed of dog you are thinking of adopting. Visiting a dog breeder or a friend who has a dog will give you a better idea of which dog to adopt.

You should also consider your current living conditions. If you live in a small house or apartment, you may experience more allergy attacks because the dander and hair are confined to a small space. Adopting a small hypoallergenic dog is the best way to remedy this problem. If you live in a larger home, you should be able to purchase a larger dog. Letting the dog outside to run in the yard or by taking it for frequent walks will also help because your dog will be able to shed outside instead of inside on your carpeting and bedding.

Once you bring your new dog home, you should give it a few weeks for your body to adjust. Your allergies may become worse before they get better, but after a month, you should see a difference. A hypoallergenic dog does not need any special care unless the breeder has specific health advice about the breed you are buying.

Taking of your home by cleaning often and invest in a quality vacuum that will thoroughly clean your carpeting. If possible, you should replace your carpeting with hardwood flooring. This will keep allergens from piling up and causing an allergy attack. Wipe down the walls once a week and try to keep your new pet off your bed. These precautions will help reduce allergy attacks and help you have a fun, loving relationship with your dog for many years to come.

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3 Missteps Every CAT OWNER Should Know

Cat with broken teeth.
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

If there's one endeavor that entails responsibility, I believe that owning a cat would be it. Becoming a pet owner can be hard work, even though your level of stress will ultimately be lower than someone who doesn't own a pet. As far as owning a cat is concerned, there are a couple of essential points to make note of. Assisi, as well as other authorities, can tell you that these are 3 of the biggest oversights you should make note of.

When it comes to medications, it's important to use the ones which are meant for cats and cats alone. Assisi Animal Health, as well as your own veterinarian, will be able to prescribe certain solutions if your pet comes down with something. The worst thing that you can do, as a pet owner, is give your cat a human medication in order to numb the pain. For example, a dose of Advil can prove to be fatal, since this is not the intended use of it. Other methods exist for discomfort, though, PEMF therapy for cats being one of the most unique.

Next, there are cat owners who will overlook the importance of their pets' teeth. Dental disease, for those who do not know, is one of the most common reasons why pet owners set up vet appointments. You must be able to brush your cat's teeth on a regular basis, making certain that this action is done gently. If you start to see problems related to the gums, or if teeth wind up missing, that's when you should contact your specialist as soon as possible.

Behavioral changes may be overlooked as well, which is another point to highlight. You have to consider that cats may act strangely, depending on illness or whatnot, which means that pet owners have to step in and see what can be done about the situation. Failure to do so can lead to a poorer quality of life for that very creature. It goes without saying that you should contact your vet about this, but make sure that you do so as soon as you observe erratic changes.

There's a certain charm that comes with cats. Even though there are some creatures which aren't as affectionate, there's no doubt that they add something special to a home. As a result, you should be the best cat owner you can be, illustrating the best level of care in the long term. Make it a point to look into these topics, keeping them in mind for the long term, and you will be that much more effective when it comes to caring for your cats as well.

About the Author: Katie Arden For further information about what you have examined, please go to Assisi Animal Health.. Also published at Assisi: 3 Missteps Every Cat Owner Should Know.

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LOWCHEN / LÖWCHEN - Dogs Of The World

LOWCHEN/LÖWCHEN - Dogs Of The World

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How To Choose A Healthy PIT BULL Puppy: Stick To Reputable Dog Breeders

Deciding to add a Pit Bull terrier to the family is a big step. You should have already done research on the breed to learn the characteristics that Pits possess, and you should have also decided on a male or female. Once you’ve tackled those hurdles, it is time for the next step… finding the perfect puppy for your family.

The best way that I would suggest for finding great puppies is to check with your local American Pit Bull Terrier club. Get in touch with the club’s president and find out when the club meets. Attend a meeting, get to know some of the members, and begin asking around for breeder recommendations.

Alternatively, you can buy dog magazines and go through the breeder listings contained in the resources section. Take some time to call the breeders who you are interested in possibly working with, and spend a brief while on the telephone with them. Ask them questions such as:

- How long have you been actively breeding Pit Bulls?

- How long have you been involved with the breed?

- How many litters per year do you have?

- Where are your puppies kept?

- Are your puppies socialized? 

- Etc.

You can also contact your veterinarian and ask them for a referral. A vet will typically know the health of a breeder’s lines so they can be a great source of inside info.

You most certainly want to stay away from pet shops and puppy mills. In most cases, these sources obtain their puppies from a variety of places and it is nearly impossible to know if they come from healthy bloodlines or not. Also, these shops often charge large amounts of money for their dogs and prey on the uneducated, spur-of-the-moment dog buyer.

Lastly, be sure not to buy a puppy from the first breeder you meet and don’t buy the first puppy that you see. All puppies are cute. Spend time with many puppies so you can see the differences in their personalities and you’ll make a more educated choice I assure you.

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AGING CATS' Nutritional Needs Change After Age 11

America's most popular pet, the cat, lives more than half of its life in the senior years. Although advances in veterinary care, better nutrition, and better-educated owners have helped improve the quantity and quality of these years, studies reveal that senior cats continue to struggle with weight as the result of reduced activity levels and a steady decline in senses, nutrient absorption and fat digestion. 

"One of the most important goals when feeding senior cats is maintaining an ideal weight and keeping that weight stable," said Dr. Arnold Plotnick, who developed a senior wellness program to address the special needs of aging cats at his veterinary clinic, Manhattan Cat Specialists in New York City. 

Owners of senior cats can help their aging felines maintain an ideal body weight throughout the senior life stage by feeding a diet that addresses their unique nutritional needs. Purina Pro Plan, for instance, has reformulated its entire line of senior cat foods to address the changing nutritional needs of aging cats in two different phases of the senior life stage: ages 7 to 11 (mature) and 11 and up (senior). 

As cats age, there's a gradual decline in the body's ability to repair itself, maintain normal body functions and adapt to stresses in the environment. Disease and weight changes are common throughout the senior life stage. 

Cats are more likely to face weight gain during the mature years when activity level declines and metabolism slows. But around age 11, weight loss becomes a greater concern.

The 11-plus years are particularly problematic for cats because their sense of smell and taste often diminish at this time, which affects their interest in food. The ability to absorb key nutrients and digest fat declines, making eating itself less efficient.

The undesirable result is that more food passes through as waste and less is used for energy, causing a drop in lean muscle mass and body fat that leads to potentially harmful weight loss.

In addition to providing the proper diet, owners of senior cats should pay close attention to their cats' activity levels, weight, and eating, grooming and elimination habits and report anything new or different to their veterinarian. 

Though many of these changes are a normal part of aging, others may signal a more serious problem. Scheduling veterinary visits at least twice a year is good practice during the senior years as many potentially serious conditions are treatable if caught early.  - NU

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Taking Care of a Three-Legged Cat

A basic litter box and a bag of litter (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Ever dreamt of becoming a pet owner? How about taking care of a three-legged cat? If you are serious about caring for a feline companion, you have to be ready for any comeuppance. 

Being a caregiver to a normal cat is also not as easy as you think it is. Responsibility comes with hard work, practice, learning and applying all those to the way you do things. But with a three-legged cat, everything must be done with extra cautiousness and care.

If you know your pet's peeves, you might as well double the effort of avoiding such if you are taking care of a three-legged cat.

The Pet's Peeves

More than the purring or meowing, you should be able to identify the body language of your cat to its mood. You must take note of the mood changes. What seems to be simple to you may already be a sign of something worse. So be in the know. And don't be the last to find out.

What are the things that may upset your feline friend? By taking extra care with such pet peeves, you will make your cat's life happier and more comfortable.

The Litter Box

Cats have very good eyesight. But they have a better sense of smell. And they don't like anything that stinks. So watch out for those litter boxes. If you don't keep them maintained, your pet may opt for the laundry basket that smells a lot better.

You cat can smell 14 times better than you do. So you really need to do an extra effort on the cleaning part. Because what may be good for you may still smell foul for your pet. Sounds like a lot? Just think of it this way. You will be doing your home a great favor. You will be doing your share to make the place smells nice and clean for your furry companion.

The Horror Medicine

Cats don't like the taste of most of their meds. But as their owner, you know that you can't do without it. So you have to find ways that your cat will be able to take the medicines without causing you too much trouble.

They particularly don't like those in tablet and capsule forms. Such meds can stay in their esophagus for five minutes or longer that may cause more serious trouble. So take this task seriously. Ask your vet for suggestions on how to do so.

The Food

Watch out when you give your cats their food. Make sure that they don't eat spoiled food. It will cause you a lot of trouble because your cats are sensitive to such.

Petting Styles

You have to take note of your petting styles. Being too aggressive or too playful may irritate your cats. You have to treat them with care. And you have to know what tricks they like so that you can give them exactly that.

Jealousy Attack

If you will be introducing a new pet or a new member to the household, you have to integrate them slowly even with your cat. Cats tend to be jealous when they are being given less attention than what they were usually getting.

Taking care of a three-legged cat is easy. You just have to know what to do and what to avoid in order to have a harmonious relationship with your feline friend.

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