BARKING Problems: Train Your Dog To Stop BARKING!

Barking Dog (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

All dogs bark, it’s their way to communicate a message. Dog barks for various reasons: to greet, to alert, out of boredom, to attract attention or when they are excited.

Although some barking from is acceptable, too much barking is certainly annoying, especially for your neighbors and eventually leading to complaints. The easiest way to stop a problematic barker is to control his barking while you are at home:

1. Set up a situation where your dog will always bark. For example, you can ask someone to ring your doorbell or knock on your door.

2. When your dog charges to the door and starts to bark loudly, approach your dog, grab his collar and give the command “quiet” – no shouting please, it doesn’t help.

3. If he stops barking, praise and reward. He’s a genius and deserves it.

4. When he continues barking, close his mouth with your hand, wrap your fingers around his muzzle – use both hands if needed, and give the command for him to keep quiet. Praise if he stops.

Most dogs would be able to learn the “quiet” command with repeated training like this. Set up similar situations to "lure" your dog to bark and repeat training whenever possible.

If you happen to own a hard-core persistent barker, use this method:

1. Vinegar-Water solution – mix a proportion of 7/8 water & 1/8 vinegar together. Pour the mixture into a water pistol or what kids call “super soaker” for longer distance shooting.

2. Aim and shoot at his chest whenever he can’t stop barking even on your command. Dogs hate the smell of vinegar and would usually back off and stop barking. He’ll even sneeze a few times. It’s harmless so you need not worry.

3. As always, praise him when he stops barking.

For your information, your dog might still be barking noisily and disrupting your neighborhood when you are not at home. In this case, you’ll need a training equipment known as “bark collars” to help train him.

There are several types of bark collars on the market. Some of these collars send an electric shock to your dog when he barks, some make a high pitch sound or emits a squirt of citronella which is annoying but safe for your dog. Usually, these collars can help you solve a problematic barker.

Personally, I’ll recommend the high pitch sound or citronella collars. They are very effective and more humane dog training tools.

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DIABETES: Could it be Affecting your Cat?

Three-legged, orange tabby cat -- Truman. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Cats and humans may not look much alike, but remember, both are mammals. Therefore, there are a number of diseases, disorders, and other medical conditions found in humans that are also found in cats. One such disease is diabetes. If you believe that your cat may have diabetes, it is important to talk to your cat's vet as soon as possible so that your cat can get the right medical treatment needed.

There are two types of diabetes in cats, just like in humans. Type 1 diabetes is caused by the insufficient production of insulin in the cat's body. Type 2 diabetes, on the other hand, is when a cat develops an intolerance for handling the insulin. In both cases, diabetes can develop in cats of any age, but it is more common for cats that are old, male, or obese. There is what is known as secondary diabetes as well, in which a drug or disease causes diabetes, sometimes forever and sometimes for a certain period of time.

When caring for your cat, there are symptoms you can see that point to your cat having diabetes. These symptoms include excess thirst, vomiting, loss of appetite, weakness, loss of weight, breathing abnormalities, and unhealthy skin and coat. Your vet can then test your cat's blood sugar levels and urine sugar levels. Both tests are needed, as temporary blood sugar levels may be high in cats that are stressed or nervous.

If your cat is diagnosed with diabetes, lifestyle changes are necessary to make sure that your cat's health is restored as much as possible. Diet is very important. Remember, your cat should only get enough food during a meal as is necessary. Cats typically need food the size of one large mouse to be content-more will cause weight problems. Not only is the amount of food important, but you should also be concerned with your cat's types of foods. Your vet can recommend specific cat food brands that are high in fiber and protein in order to control diabetes.

Insulin, oral medications, and supplements may also be necessary. Again, your vet can tell you what is needed, as well as show you how to administer treatment to your cat daily. It is important for you to monitor your cat's health to make sure that the diabetes is in control and that he or she is staying happy, healthy, and comfortable. Diabetes is not the end of the world, in either humans or cats.

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Purebred Backgrounds - POODLE Information

A medium sized poodle in a Scandinavian clip
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Blue at election time Standard Poodle (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Poodle Toy Adulto (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The Poodle is one of the most loved and hated dog breeds. Often seen fully coiffed either in competition or strolling with their owners, their fur simultaneously puffed high and trimmed close, poodles appear to be a haughty and decadent dog breed to the Poodle layman.

Surprisingly, the history of the poodle is actually very down-to-earth. Poodles are water dogs. They are naturals at hunting birds in the water and on land. The name Poodle comes from the German words Pudel or Pudelhund, which means splashing and splashing dog respectively. The name for Poodles is related to the English word puddle. Knowing Poodles are named after a simple puddle makes the breed seem less intimidating already. Poodles most likely originated in Eastern Europe and they have been popular throughout Europe for hundreds of years. However, it is the French who are given credit for the breed.

French Poodle breeders successfully cultivated all three sizes of Poodle: miniature, toy and standard.

The three sizes of Poodle: miniature, toy and standard have similar traits of all Poodles but differ in height and weight. Miniature Poodles are fifteen to seventeen pounds and eleven to fifteen inches in height at the shoulder. Toy Poodles are six to nine pounds and up to ten inches at the shoulder. Standard Poodles are forty-five to seventy pounds and over fifteen inches at the shoulder.

Poodle breeders breed for overall traits such as high energy level, intelligence, proud or regal carriage, straight, delicate muzzle, small, oval feet, and curly, dense fur among other characteristics. There are many champion lines of Poodle due to the many winners of American Kennel Club and other canine association competitions. Purebred Poodles should come with a documented pedigree or ancestry showing evidence of past champions in the genetic line.

Poodles, like other purebred dogs, have some common genetic flaws, which lead to medical conditions. Poodle breeders should discontinue breeding any line found to have these conditions. Some of the likely health problems are Addison's disease, gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), thyroid and renal conditions, hip dysplasia, and cancer.

When interviewing Poodle breeders, buyers should bring a list of questions to determine a reputable breeder from a bad breeder. Buyers should do their homework in advance and be ready to commit to Poodles at the time of purchase. Some excellent questions to ask to help buyers find good Poodle breeders include do you maintain your own kennel and can I visit it, can I meet the parents and receive pedigree papers, can I get medical and immunization records and do you offer a warranty. 

Good Poodle breeders will run their own kennels and encourage potential buyers to visit and meet not only the puppies but the parents as well. The kennels should be clean and allow good socialization. Reputable breeders will also give new owners lots of information out Poodles, especially car and feeding instructions.

Good Poodle breeders will care where the puppies are going and what kind of care they will receive. Expect to have answers for the breeder as well to questions about your home and environment.

By Lisa A Collins - Article Source: EzineArticles

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Some Information Regarding CAIRN TERRIER Pet Dogs

Cairn-Terrier (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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CAIRN TERRIER - Dogs of the World

Cairn Terrier - Dogs of the World

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Will Your DOG SURVIVE The Summer Sun?

Photo  by Tobyotter 

As a 10-year-old child, I watched helplessly one hot August day as my beloved boxer, Duke, died in my arms. Four decades later, I still have that memory painfully etched in my mind. We didn't learn until after the fact that Duke had died of a heat stroke. Even more painful was the realization that, had we known what to look for, we could have taken measures to possibly prevent his death. In honor of his memory, I want to share vital information that may keep your dog from suffering Duke's fate.

What is heat stroke?

Too much time exposed to the dangerous combination of increased temperature and humidity can lead to a heat stroke. A mammal's body (and that includes humans, too) can only tolerate temperatures up to about 107 degrees before cells start dying. The higher the temperature, the faster this occurs. The longer the body remains at an elevated temperature, the less chance there is for recovery. Heat stroke can occur very quickly, given the right set of circumstances, and if too much time has elapsed, even your best efforts may not be enough to keep your dog alive.

Is my dog at risk for heat stroke?

Any dog can fall victim to heat stroke, but hot weather is especially hard on puppies and older dogs, (they have a harder time regulating their body temperature), short-nosed breeds, (like pugs, pekes, boxers, and bulldogs), overweight dogs, those with heart or lung problems, and dogs recently moved from a cooler climate. These risk factors increase if your dog doesn't have enough water if he's in an enclosed space or is exposed too long to direct sunlight.

How can I recognize heat stroke?

Heat stroke causes dogs to pant rapidly and heavily, the body's defense in an effort to lower the core temperature. Their eyes may be open abnormally wide, and they may appear to stare blankly, ignoring your commands. They may drool excessively and stagger weakly. The gums will appear pale and dry and eventually if left untreated, the animal will collapse into unconsciousness.

What should I do if my dog has a heat stroke?

If you suspect your dog is suffering from heat stroke and you're close to a vet or animal hospital, put him in the car, crank the air conditioning all the way up and get him there as soon as possible. They're the ones best equipped to handle your dog's recovery. If that's not possible, you must try to reduce your dog's temperature yourself. Get him to a shady area and either put him in a tub of cool (not cold) running water or spray him with a hose. Be sure the water penetrates his coat and wets the skin beneath. Run it over his tongue and mouth, inside the legs and on his stomach. Remember that small dogs will cool down more quickly than larger breeds. Take your dog to a vet as soon as you can.

Hopefully, your dog will never suffer a life-threatening heat stroke. If he does, at least now you know the signs and symptoms to be aware of, and the measures you can take that will offer him the best chances for a full and total recovery.

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How To Take Care Of RAGDOLL KITTENS

Flame point Ragdoll kitten (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

You have since wanted a cat, but you could not possibly get one then due to the fact that you live somewhere that it is not allowed. Lately, though, you have relocated and now you have a place where you'll be allowed to have a pet. Before anything else though, you want to know first what things you must do to get everything ready for the arrival of your feline pet.

What you need to do this time is play the part of the responsible owner. Bringing home ragdoll kittens North Carolina is a very immense responsibility. Expect that you are going to be taking care of the pets for the next 15 years or more. Dedicating appropriate attention to how they are supposed to be cared for is the least that you can do to ensure that they have well cared for the whole time.

Know what kind of breed you want to take care of too. There are all kinds of breeds and with all their inherent personalities that can be found around. You want to get some research done so you can know exactly what things can be expected from these different breeds if you decide to bring anyone home. This would prepare you for the things that you must do to better care for them.

Consider the lifestyle that you lead. The cat that you should take care of should be one that is appropriate for the kind of lifestyle that you have. It is best that you get at least two. This allows you to leave your cats at home without having to worry that he might be bored being alone in the house. He is going to have a playmate that he can interact with in the first place.

Make sure that your place is properly cat-proofed. It has to be a safe and sound and secure abode that your pets can freely roam around. You need to omit those things that are likely to cause your cats to get hurt or to get injured. Find out what are the things that you need to eliminate for your home to ensure that you will not always worry about the safety of your kitty.

Try not to buy from breeders. It is always best that you will consider getting the cats that you want from the pound or from a local shelter. This is a really practical choice since adopting is going to cost you less. If you buy from a breeder, you are going to have to pay more. This is a compassionate choice too since you are actually giving a second chance to a pet for a forever home.

Choose a vet ahead of time. There are a lot of concerns with the pets that you will need the guidance and the advice of a vet for. You need to remember that there are a lot of things that the right vet can help you with. Do find one long before you need his assistance so you can choose well.

Find where you can get the supplies for your kittens too. You need to find a store that can sell you the stuff that you need when it comes to caring for your cats. Having a go-to place is always idea so you would not need to have to search long and far when getting these supplies.

About the Author: Freida Michael Read more about How To Take Care Of Ragdoll Kittens.

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What Is A SHIH TZU Standard?

A Shih Tzu fully groomed for a dog show. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The Shih Tzu is a toy dog of small stature and enormous heart. This lovable little dog is often a spoilt member of the family; if you own a Shih Tzu you will understand the love their owners feel for theirs!

If you want to show off your beautiful, purebred Shih Tzu at competitions on any level then you will need to familiarize yourself with the standards and requirements.

The American Kennel Club has clearly defined guidelines when it comes to what kinds of physical attributes your Shih Tzu will need to exhibit. 

If you want to show, breed or are just interested in learning about the Shih Tzu Breed then here are some things you can do. Ask your breeder, your Vet, use the Internet and learn everything you can about Shih Tzu's.

The breed specifications are long and detailed for the Shih Tzu to account for many of the variations. 

Summary of general breed specifications: 

Overall Appearance:

The Shih Tzu is sturdy and lively with a long flowing double coat. A proud bearing and a distinctively arrogant manner with the head generally carried well up and a curved tail which rests on the back. 

There is a great variation on the size of the Shih Tzu but the dog must carry a good weight and give an overall impression of a compact, solid and well-built dog. 

Size, Proportion, Substance 

The ideal weight for adult dogs is anywhere within the range of 9 to 16 pounds. The highest point of the back (known as the withers) should be not less than 8 inches. The ideal Shih Tzu should be well proportioned. The length between the withers and the root of the tail is slightly longer than the height at the withers. The dog may not appear to be 'leggy' or conversely, may not appear dumpy or squatty. Substance - Regardless of size, the Shih Tzu is compact solid 

Head 

The head should be round, broad, with a wide space between eyes. The head must appear to be in balance with the overall size of the dog. The Shih Tzu should have a warm, sweet, wide-eyed, friendly and trusting. AN overall well-balanced, pleasant _expression is the most important aspect of the features of the head. 

The judges carefully examine beyond the hair to determine if what is seen is the actual head and shape or if careful grooming has been used to cover faults.

Faults

- Narrow Head

- Close-set eyes

- Small, close-set or light eyes

- Excessive eye white

- Snippiness

- Lack of definite stop

- Pink on nose, lips or eye rims

- Overshot bite

Competing with your Shih Tzu 

Of course, if you want to show your Shih Tzu you will need to read as much as possible on the subject. Read everything you can and discuss 

The breed standards can differ from country to country and also even within various breed organizations. Generally, you can be sure that even between different judges there are limits as to what is considered a variant and what is considered to be a fault. Interpretation varies as do judges tastes. 

The Shih Tzu standard is made up of fanciers, breeder’s nationwide.  If you do not plan to show your Shih Tzu then just about any puppy will do. These are some good guidelines for what to look for but being exact is not necessary.  If you have found the cutest, healthiest little puppy then that is all your family will need.

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Human Food For Your GOLDEN RETRIEVER

Photo  by sally9258 

A lot of people wonder what type of human food they should feed their Golden.  Even though many prefer to stick with dog food and only dog food, there are certain types of human food that Golden Retrievers love - and is actually good for them.  Golden’s crave attention as we all know - and when they watch you eat it never hurts to give them a bite - as long as you know what they should and shouldn’t consume with their diets.

For your Golden’s health, feeding him foods such as chicken, raw vegetables, turkey, brown rice, fruits, and oatmeal are always great.  Even though we think of these type foods as “human food”, they are actually good for many animals as well.  All dogs have taste buds and noses, meaning that they get very excited when they see you with food.  

If your Golden Retriever runs to the refrigerator when you open it up, he’s trying to tell you that he smells something good.  Even though he may run to the refrigerator, he isn’t begging for food as many think, he is simply wanting to have some real food.  Once your Golden starts to do this, you should give him some of what he wants.  Although most real food is great for Golden’s, there are some that aren’t quite so good.

Egg whites

If you feed your Golden a large amount of egg white in his diet, he will get a deficiency in biotin, which is a B vitamin, due to the amount of avidin, which is a very destructive substance.  If you are feeding your Golden Retriever egg yolks, you shouldn’t worry as the effects of avidin will be offset by the high biotin levels that are found in egg yolks.  You can also feed your Golden egg shells as well, as they contain a large amount of protein.  If you want the best for your Golden - try feeding him raw eggs - with the shell intact.

Any form of Chocolate

We all know never to feed chocolate to any type of animal.  Chocolate contains bromine, which is very toxic to both dogs and cats.  Unsweet chocolate is by far the worst to feed to your Golden, as it contains a large amount of bromine. Bromine is a very harmful chemical, one that normally leads to the death of your animal should he be fed any type of chocolate.

There are other foods out there that can be good or harmful to your Golden.  If you have any questions, you should always ask your veterinarian.  Your vet will be able to recommend real food that is beneficial to your Golden, as well as foods you should avoid.  You can experiment with real food if you like - although you should never allow your Golden Retriever to consume any type of chocolate.

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Warm Climates and FRENCH BULLDOGS: Not the Best Combination!

English and French Bulldogs (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Many dog lovers have found that French bulldogs look very lovable and find it hard to resist them. This is the reason why a lot of them would like to own one, but they don’t understand that owning one requires a different approach and care from other dogs. Aside from the unusual attention that they demand, French bulldogs should also be kept in a cooler temperature. This canine breed has unusual physical characteristics which don’t allow them to adapt well to warmer climates. They are also not outdoor types of dogs.

While the unique shape of the French bulldogs head and its shortened nose makes it uniquely appealing, it also is one of the cause why they can suffer difficulty in breathing, especially in warmer temperatures. Other breeds also experience this condition and it’s also known in the medical community as Brachycephalic Syndrome.

The same short snub nose that makes the French bulldog look irresistible is the same aspect that causes them to suffer from this condition. Because of their diminutive nose, the French bulldog is unable to have maximized air intake, which they need to dispel heat. Dogs don’t have sweat glands all over their body like humans do. So they pant to dispel heat from their body, with their nose, they aren’t able to do so effectively, especially in warmer climates. So, if this particular breed is kept at a very warm climate and heat is no expelled from their body, this condition can result in the death of the dog.

If you live in a warm climate area and really want to own a French bulldog, then there are certain conditions that you have to consider first. Remember that the outdoors will be very hot, especially in the summertime, plus, French bulldogs are not really outdoor dogs, they are bred to be kept inside the home. So, monitor their outdoor activities, don’t allow them to stay outside in a prolonged period of time.

If you plan to play with your dog in your backyard, make sure that there is adequate shade for you to play in, Also, make sure that fresh cool water is accessible at all times. Overheating can result in the death of your beloved pooch. Make sure to check the humidity periodically, if the levels are high, bring your dog indoors. Keep in mind that the higher the humidity and heat, the less time the dog should spend outside, lessen their exercise and be walking.

Unlike other dogs, French bulldogs should be accompanied when they venture outside the home, whether to play, exercise or to do their business. If you notice that your dog is having a hard time breathing, take him indoors immediately to cool off. If your home is also warm, make sure that an air-conditioned area is ready for him. To help your pet overcome overheating, make sure to rinse them off in cool water and place your pooch in wet towels. Make sure not to use ice cold water as it may cause the dog to go under shock.

This may sound too much work, but French bulldogs are definitely worth it.

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BASSET HOUND Puppy - Puppies of the World

Basset Hound Puppy - Puppies of the World

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BASSET HOUND - Laid Back And Loving

This is a full body shot of my 7-year-old Purebred Lemon Basset Hound Lucy
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The Basset Hound is a Medium/Large dog that typically weighs between 45-75 pounds. Their height averages between 11" to 15". It is long and low and their height/weight ratio makes their already short legs look even shorter. In fact, their name comes from the French word "bas" which means low. Their gentle, loving, patient nature makes them an excellent companion dog for the home while their keen sense of smell and hunting instincts continue to make them excellent hunting companions. 

Recognized by the AKC in 1885, the acceptable colors for the Basset Hound are a variety of hound colors, but they are typically white with chestnut or sand colored markings. The fairly dense coat is short, straight, hard and smooth. Their coat is easy to groom and only requires an occasional brushing and shampooing.

This loving, gentle dog is perfect for family life. They are excellent and patient with small children, even when they are not socialized with them. They are affectionate with their family and love to be around their family. They are great with other dogs and pets as well, although early socialization is good for non-canine pets because they might chase them due to their hunting instincts. They are easy going and fairly inactive when they are inside, making them great for apartment life as they enjoy relaxing and laying around inside. They are more active outdoors and require regular play, exercise and time to run. If you don't have a yard, you should plan to at least take them on a daily walk. They are fairly easy to train, but if they are on the trail of a scent, they will not pay any attention to you. For this reason, a fenced in yard is best. They have a tendency to gain weight, so monitoring their food intake and giving them ample exercise is important. 

The Basset Hound originated in France and dates back hundreds of years. Their ancestry can be traced back to the Bloodhound. Originally used as hunting dogs, the Basset Hound uses its excellent sense of smell to track animals. Even though they can still be used for hunting, they are seen more as companion dogs today.

Few breeds equal the Basset Hound's gentle, forgiving, laid-back nature. They are perfect for active families and for those that just enjoy an occasional walk provided their Basset Hound can have daily outside time. Whether you have small children or other pets or dogs, the Basset Hound can fit into just about any type of family dynamic with little to no adjustment problems.

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A BLACK CAT is Just a CAT

I took this picture of Lilith, a black cat found as a kitten in a supermarket parking lot
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

When my old cat died, I decided to pick one out of the Humane Society.  They had named the first cat I saw “Batman”, and I fell in love with him on sight.

But when I brought him home, I discovered he didn’t quite have the courage of the comic book hero. I made some mistakes which resulted in a month-long struggle to coax him out of his hiding place to join the family.

I renamed him Bear, and he is a wonderful cat, but my guests seem a little uncomfortable when he comes into the room.  After all, he is completely black.

He is a black cat and some people are afraid of Black Cats…

The Black Cat in History

Historically, black cats have been associated with omens, bad luck and, well...evil.

The poor unfortunate kitties have been used in rituals and were supposedly the "familiars" of witches. Anarchism has used the symbol of the black cat, as has Wicca, the modern day expression of Witchcraft.  Superstition has associated bad luck with having a black cat cross your path.

All-in-all, the black cat has been getting some really bad press for centuries, and all of that is not easily overcome in just a few short lines of this article.

Scaredy Cat

A very highly sensitive cat, our new black Bear was far more scared of us than we were of him, and we made a number of mistakes in the first hour of his introduction that practically destroyed our chances for introducing him to our home.

The process of first finding Bear where he had hidden in the house and gradually coaxing him out of his hiding place to join the family was long and agonizing. It took over a month, and I had almost despaired that we would ever acclimate him.

Patience won out, though…

Superstition Dispelled

Since then, Bear has been rolling around on my lap enjoying his daily pettings, sleeping in my bed, yowling at the females he sees from his perch in the kitchen window and just generally bringing a lot of joy to our lives.

He is here to dispel the notion that a black cat means bad luck.  He is one of the sweetest cats you'll ever meet, and there's absolutely *nothing* scary about him. And I can tell you for a fact that no bad luck is connected with Bear.  He's crossed my path innumerable times, and so far I haven't experienced anything one might think of as "bad luck".

I have to say, though, that on Halloween night he seems to be scared of his own black shadow. But I try to keep him calmed down and happy to be where he is...in my lap purring as loud as he can!

Copyright 2006 John Young

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Significant Facts about PET ADOPTIONS

Dog at an animal shelter (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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CANINE HYDROTHERAPY: Choosing The Right Therapist

Beagle swimming (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Dogs are like people in so many ways: they need to be touched, loved, and appreciated; they need exercise, proper nutrition, and good care; and sometimes they get the same diseases, like arthritis.

It's been found that one of the best treatments for humans suffering from arthritis and other joint diseases is water aerobics, a form of hydrotherapy. It should be no surprise that dogs benefit similarly from the support and warmth of hydrotherapeutic pools, especially since most dogs enjoy water so much anyway.

While a few years ago canine hydrotherapy was looked upon as a little odd, to say the least, today canine hydrotherapy facilities are growing much more common. Veterinarians are as likely today to prescribe canine hydrotherapy for hip dysplasia and other canine joint problems as they are to prescribe medications. 

How Does It Work?

Canine hydrotherapy is very simple. Special pools with powerful jets are provided for the dogs. The Jets are set up so that the dog can swim against a current, building its muscles and strengthening the ligaments around weak or damaged joints. Generally, the canine hydrotherapist enters the water with the dog, helping guide him into exercising the right parts of his body, calming him and remaining close by in case the dog grows distressed.

This sort of exercise is called isokinetic – it isolates particular muscular movements to help retrain weak muscles. The number of treatments needed depends on the dog and the problem. If the hydrotherapy is recommended for a short-term condition, like rebuilding strength or recovering from surgery, it can be as few as three sessions. For a dog with a chronic illness, the hydrotherapy may be long-term or even ongoing for the rest of his life.

What Should I Look For?

The canine hydrotherapy pool should be warm but not hot; ideally, somewhere around 92 degrees is best. Therapists should work closely with your dog's veterinarian so they know what to treat for your pet. An individual plan should be developed for your dog intended to optimize wellness, with consideration given to muscle development, conditioning, general fitness, and relaxation.

Common reasons for the use of canine hydrotherapy include pre or post-surgical conditioning; dysplasia or arthritis; obesity; cardiovascular workouts for older dogs; stroke reconditioning; and pain management, usually secondary to a joint disease.

How Do I Know Who To Use?

In Britain, the Canine Hydrotherapy Association was formed in 2000. They maintain standards and further the knowledge and use of good practice in hydrotherapy.

Not every hydrotherapist is a member. You can also find a good canine hydrotherapist by asking about the experience the therapist has had with dogs. Have they bred or shown dogs? Run kennels? Did they ever work in a veterinary capacity? 

Canine hydrotherapy is a new-enough industry that there are no schools or degrees. Your best bet: let your dog choose. If the dog likes the therapist, if he's willing to work with the therapist and cooperates in his treatment, then you have a good canine hydrotherapist for your dog.

For more information on this unique and effective treatment, and how it will care for your dog, please visit http://www.canine-hydrotherapy.com .

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The Temperament Of CATS

Ti-Rat, Montreal born red cat, showing his claws with pride. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Perhaps you imagined yourself as a sleek young woman like Selena Kyle. But is a cat the right pet for you? To decide, you must have an idea what to expect from a cat. You must be familiar with the temperament of cats.

First of all, a domestic cat is a highly intelligent and fiercely independent creature. It can never be placed on a leash the way dogs are. Cats do things they want to do and when they want to do it. They will demand the things they want, such as food and play. And they will also make it clear when they want to be left alone. Thus, the owner of a cat cannot expect his pet to do “work” for him.

Different breeds of cats have different personalities. Some cats are quiet while others like to meow all the time. Can you tolerate a cat who meows almost every hour? Some cats are fussy and choosy about the food you give them while others will eat just about anything. Can you afford the kind of food that your cat prefers? Some cats don’t mind being surrounded and petted by strange people while others will wield their claws if they face a person they haven’t met before. Does your house accept many strangers or are you alone most of the time? And some cats love to climb and curl on the lap of their masters. But others prefer to be left alone, watching TV or listening to the radio. Are you a cat owner who likes to cuddle all the time?

You will know when your cat is trying to get your attention. It will endlessly meow at you or it will follow you around or it will rub its body against your leg. You will also know if your cat is comfortable or scared by lifting up your cat. If the body is loose, then your cat is relaxed. If the body is tight, then something is scaring the daylights out of it.

Cats like to sleep. And the specific personality and breed of the cat will determine where the cat chooses to sleep. Some like to be in secluded places where no one can disturb them. They like to lie in high cupboards and similar places. Other breeds of cats like to sleep in places where everyone is converging. These cats like to be noticed. So they sleep at the center of the foyer, in the middle of the stairs and even on the couch, especially when there are guests.

Cats like to sharpen their claws. It is their nature, similar to wild cats such as lions, tigers, panthers, and cheetahs. This may irritate the owner, especially if the cat chooses to sharpen its claws on the couch. The owner may consider giving the cat a scratching post. The cat can be taught to scratch its claws on this post.

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Should OUTSIDE CATS Use A COLLAR

Photo  by Dawko 

Most cat owners find themselves in a quandary over whether or not to use a cat collar on their outdoor cats. The debate still reigns over the pros and cons of outfitting an outside cat with a collar, but many veterinarians and cat experts agree that collars are the best way to go. However, before you decide, take a look at these pros and cons:

Pros:

• Cat collars can hold identification and registration tags. This is critical in case your outdoor cat becomes lost or is picked up by a concerned individual. Also, collars can hold bells or other noise generating items to scare away potential prey.

• Many cat collars are equipped with reflective material. Whether the collar is made completely out of reflective material or only contains a small strip, this will help your cat to become more visible in the dark. Cats, especially those of dark color, can become invisible at night, which is a potentially dangerous situation.

Cons:

• Cat collars can easily snag and cause your cat to become hung or stuck on branches, fences, or anything else in the great outdoors. Some cats have actually been strangled when their collar has gotten caught and cut off the animal’s air supply.

• Your cat may not be comfortable wearing a collar or the collar may be too heavy for the animal.

Given these pros and cons, consider choosing a collar that will maximize the positives and minimize the negatives. For example, there are many collars on the market that are specially designed to break away or unclasp when the cat is hung. These collars are considered strangle-proof and release when approximately seven pounds of pressure is applied. This way, the cat can break him — or herself free from any snare.

Furthermore, there are many different types of collars on the market. Bring your feline friend with you to the local pet-friendly pet store and try on several different types of collars until you find one that best fits. Avoid choosing a harness for outdoor cats unless you plan on walking the cat on a leash. If this is the case, only allow your cat to wear a harness while supervised, as most are not snare-proof.

On a whole, collars are encouraged on cats that spend their time outside and inside. In addition to providing visibility to your animal, the collar will hold valuable identification information that will protect your cat and assist you in finding your pet.

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Some Guidance For DOG Owners And Buyers

Shepador Chewer (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

A dog is a great pet. Dogs are beloved pets virtually everywhere for good reason. They're active, loving and loving. They are going to stick by your side. Because of this, you should be a good friend to your dog and supply them with everything they require. These are some paths to do that.

Look into subsidized medicare for your dog if money is tight. Many local communities, along with groups like the SPCA offer discounted services that have proven invaluable to dog owners. Look into getting your dog spayed or fixed and immunized for a tiny part of vet costs at a sponsored event likely close-by to you. Just contact the SPCA or an animal shelter in your city.

Treatment

When taking your senior dog to the vet for an annual visit, make certain to request senior blood work. A blood panel can help your vet to spot any dog worms treatment, heart or vascular concerns. If caught early, treatment is often minimally invasive and less dear. This is a great way to keep your pet healthy for several years to come.

When you're canine training, use the method of positive beefing up. Rewards and praise work better and quicker than violence and predominance. Treating your dog humanely when training is what is handiest and what will be best for him. Always treat your dog with kindness during training so you will see a miles better result.

Puppy dog

If your puppy or dog is continually gnawing up your furniture, invest in some chew-toys. Scatter them around the floor, particularly around the legs of the settee and end-tables. Be positive about your offers to play with the chewies with your dog to urge frequent use. This should finally deter him from chomping your furniture.

If you are in the marketplace for a new puppy, make sure you will have sufficient time to devote to his coaching. On average, you want to take a puppy dog outside to do his business eight times each day and that can take a lot away from your list. Coaching takes more tenaciousness and time than most people realize.

Care

Owning a dog is a sizeable monetary commitment. You have to pay for top of the range food, regular vet care, and various supplies. This will cost anywhere from hundreds to thousands of greenbacks every year. Emergency vet care is awfully costly, in a number of cases thousands of bucks so you might like to consider buying pet healthcare insurance.

Take care to keep your dog cool while traveling during the summer by car. Even with your air-conditioning on, the dog may become over-heated in his pet carrier. A straightforward and inexpensive countermeasure is freezing one or two-gallon jugs of water and placing them near him where he'll curl up and cool down.

Always remember that you are accountable for the welfare of your dog. This info will help you take great care of your pet. It's vital to provide your dog with a good environment and take excellent care of it so it lives a long contented life.

About the Author: Edna Torres My name is Edna Torres I've been helping folks defeat their skin conditions through natural cures for over ten years.

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