Sunday, August 12, 2018

BANDAGING Your Dog

English: A Dog Wearing a Inflatable Elizabetha...
A Dog Wearing an Inflatable Elizabethan Collar
 (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Having a dog is a big responsibility. Some even compare taking care of a dog to that of a baby. The only advantage of having dogs compared to having babies is that they won’t grow older and turn into stressful teenagers. Because dogs are like babies they sometimes also end up in harmful situations. They would sometimes get themselves trapped in a tight place or get hit by something that will injure one of their limbs. When that happens, we should learn how to bandage our dogs to prevent further damage. Here are some basic ways of how to bandage your injured dog.

1. When your pet has a bandage, it should always be clean and dry. So it’s pretty important to make sure your pet stays inside most of the time when it has a bandage. To prevent the bandage from getting wet when the pet goes to pee or poop, a trash bag or plastic covering should cover the bandaged leg. You may use empty bread bags. When your pet has wet or dirtied up the bandage, it would require changing. Make sure to check the bandage twice a day to see if it is clean and dry. Check also for foul odors or discharge and if there is any, call your veterinarian immediately.

2. After bringing home your pet from the veterinarian make sure that the bandage is still in place. Your pet might have been irritated by it and has chewed or tried to scratch it off. Look closely at the position and the location of the bandage when you do check. Look at the toes of the pet, the bandage might have slipped up making the toes stick out. Also look at the size, if the bandage has become loose. This should be taken into account when a dog has been bandaged in the abdomen or leg area. This is because one end will be bigger than the other and eventually become narrower. When the bandage telescopes down the limb of the dog it may bunch up and abrade the limb. When that happens, the bandage should be changed as well.

3. If the dog is bandaged up in the leg make sure it isn’t too tight. Observe how the toes will appear at the bottom of the bandage at least twice a day. This is done to check for sweating, swelling, or pain. Check for skin chaffing, redness, discharge or swelling before and after the bandage has been applied.

4. To prevent the pet from chewing the bandage because of the bothersome experience it gives, put an Elizabethan collar. If you have observed that the pet is chewing or scratching it excessively, ask the vet if there might be problems.

These are the times that you should already be taking the pet back to the veterinarian:

• Swelling above or below the bandage
• Chewing the bandage
• Bandage becomes wet
• Bleeding or discharge above, below or through
• Scheduled bandage changes




Saturday, August 11, 2018

Where to Find the Perfect PERSIAN CAT

Perzský kocúr Walter
Persian Cat (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
People from all walks of life like Persian cats and wish to have one as a pet. Most Persian cats have thick coats of fur and are nice to cuddle with. If you wish to find that perfect little one that you can love and adore, then the best place to go to would be a Persian Breeder or a Persian Cattery.

Persian Breeders are people and businesses that breed and raise Persian cats for a living. These people usually breed with the best and most healthy Persian cats. They dedicate their time and effort to raising beautiful, healthy Persian cats that are registered with CFA or similar associations. As with any type of business -- for Persian Breeding is a business -- you will find both reputable and deceitful Breeders. Those of a reputable standard will be able to show you proof of where the cats came from, parents of kittens and the necessary documentation for their cats. If you find yourself conversing with someone less reputable or outright deceitful then it is best to contact your local authorities.

The difference between a Persian Breeder and a Persian Cattery is that a Persian Cattery breeds and raises their Persian cats for their own benefit as much as for the customer seeking a Persian kitten. There are many reputable catteries and they also have many different goals. Some Persian Catteries breed their cats for the main purpose of having the perfect show cats. Many Persian catteries do not breed their cats for the purpose of providing pets for families but rather for the purpose of having the best and most beautiful show cats.

Having the perfect cat is one thing but maintaining that cat's health and beauty is quite another. Persian cats have thick fur and their coats need to be groomed daily -- combed or brushed. You can find many Cat grooming products at your local pet shop. It is best to use a wide-metal tooth comb instead of a brush. If you use a brush, then only do so to 'fluff' the coat and make sure to first remove any mats in the coat. If you groom your cat daily then matting should not be a problem.

You can either bathe your cat yourself or you can go to a professional groomer. You know that your cat needs a bath when they begin to look greasy as the dirt accumulates and matting will increase if you do not bath your cat. If you decide to bathe your Persian cat yourself then you need to first remove all mats with a wide-toothed comb. Do not pull on the hair as you can remove the hair to the root and bald patches will form.

The perfect cat needs the perfect home and you will reap the benefits of having the perfect Persian cats if you show him/her the love and care that all cats deserve. Care for your cat to the best of your abilities and they will love and care for you in return.

    By Iftikhar Tirmizi
    Iftikhar Tirmizi freelances as a niche marketing consultant and marketer that owns and operates roughly 40 blogs and websites touching dozens of niches, including an article directory and Niche Advertising Blog. Tirmizi has been creating health and wellness for his clients since 2007. Recently working on the project of Persian Kittens
    Article Source: EzineArticles


Friday, August 10, 2018

Fact Sheet: APPENZELL MOUNTAIN DOG

(Original Title: Appenzell Mountain Dog)

Appenzeller Sennenhund
Appenzeller Sennenhund (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Breed group: Mastiff
Weight: 49-70 lbs
Height: Males 22-23 inches, females 18-20 inches

Overview
There is not complete agreement on the origin of this breed. The one theory is that the Appenzell Mountain dog is a native breed that dates back to the Bronze Age, and the other is that is descended from the Molossus and the later brought into Switzerland by the Romans. These dogs are one of the four Swiss Sennenhunds, with the Appenzell Mountain dog being the rarest of the four. These dogs make outstanding herd dogs, seeing that they are without a tire in the mountains. The Appenzell are also very flexible when it comes to pulling carts, and they were used to bring cheese and milk to the merchants in town from the valleys. This is a very hard working breed that loves to work with the herd when it is not guarding its master.

Temperament
The Appenzell Mountain dog has a very high intelligence, and they are also very active. They do well with other animals and people, especially when they have been socialized well from an early age onwards. These dogs can, however, be wary of strangers. This is an active breed that will need a lot of exercises. They will flourish with agility and skill training, but also be a bit noisy and get bored easily. This is definitely not an indoor dog. This dog is a tough dog that has sober habits. The Appenzell Mountain dog will be devoted to the whole family, but will probably bond closely with one member.

Care
This breed has a straight-haired double coat that does not require a lot of care. Dead hears can be removed with a rubber brush from time to time to keep their coats in a good condition.


Training
This breed will do best in a consistent and well-balanced training environment. It is important for this dog to be socialized well with different types of situations, animals, and people. Due to the intelligence of these dogs, they will learn very quickly. These dogs like to be given a task to complete. The Appenzell Mountain dog loves to be outdoors, especially when its trainer is close by. This dog will do very well in skills trials and games of catch. The Appenzell can be very noisy, but they are outgoing dogs that make excellent watchdogs. The Appenzell Mountain dog is a very pleasant and warm dog, but prefers the freedom of wide open spaces and therefore not well suited for indoor living.

Health problems
The Appenzell Mountain dog is a very tough and healthy breed that has no breed-specific conditions worth reporting.



Thursday, August 9, 2018

Are PORTUGUESE WATER DOGS - HYPOALLERGENIC?

Portuguese Water Dog Puppy - Photo: Pexels
Portuguese Water Dogs have short hair that does not shed and is considered a working dog, meaning that it is a breed that needs to stay busy. This breed is considered a hypoallergenic dog. Traditionally used to assist in fishing expeditions, the Portuguese Water Dog is now kept as a house pet. While this breed is not as common as other breeds, if you want to dog that is hypoallergenic, lively, and enjoys companionship, then this breed may be the one for you. 

Since the Portuguese Water Dog is not bred as often as other breeds of hypoallergenic dog, you will have to search for a breeder online, in the newspaper, or by calling breeders in your area until you find one. Generally happy dogs, the PWD needs to stay busy or it will get bored. You should have plenty of toys for it to play with and you may want to consider crate training when you are not at home. This means that the dog will stay in a crate when you go out so it does not destroy your home. When the PWD gets bored or lonely, it will chew on anything it finds. 

Crate training should begin right after you bring the dog home. By placing a blanket, toys, and water into the crate, you will make the dog comfortable while you are away. You should not use the crate when punishing the dog or it will not want to go in it when you leave for the day. After training the dog, you will have to keep up the routine. This will give the dog structure and will also salvage your possessions. Keeping the dog in a crate when you are not at home will also reduce allergens. 

Portuguese Water Dogs need to be groomed every two months or so. There are two patterns that most groomers follow, the retriever cut and the lion cut. The retriever cut means that the hair is cut evenly on the body. The lion cut leaves that front half of the dog's body covered with hair, while the hair on the hind legs is cut short. You should take the dog to have his hair groomed if you are not comfortable cutting it yourself. 

If you are considering buying a PWD, you should be prepared to have constant companionship. These breeds need to be walked and they need to be entertained throughout the day. If you need to travel on vacation or for work, you should board the dog so it will not be lonely. Portuguese Water Dogs typically live between twelve and fifteen years. 


Portuguese Water Dogs are easy going and get along with children and most adults. If you are looking for a breed that does not shed and will fit in with your family, then the PWD is the breed for you. While most Portuguese Water Dogs are black, some are white or a mix of both. Their hair is curly or wavy and similar to that of the standard poodle.


Wednesday, August 8, 2018

Is The SIBERIAN HUSKY A Good Fit For Your Household?

Español: Luna-Lunera,, Husky Siberiano Hembra ...
Luna-Lunera,, Siberian Husky (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
A Siberian Husky is a wonderful breed of dog, however, this may not be the right fit for every type of family. A lot of people will be drawn to this breed once they hear all about how intelligent they are, the way that they are wonderful with children and also that they make great exercise partners. 

In addition to that, there are a lot of people who are excited to hear that this is a breed that is free of the common dog smell that so many other breeds have. While all of these things can be very beneficial, it is important that you understand the true nature and inner workings of this breed before you make a decision.

If you are a person who is happy, assertive, well-adjusted and active with a great family situation at home, you could be a perfect owner for a Siberian Husky. Despite the shedding that these dogs are subject to, this is a breed that is exceptionally clean. They take a good deal of pride in their coat and will do a lot to keep it clean on their own. Since they do not have a dog odor, they are a good choice for someone who is not a fan of it. Even while they are eating, the husky is a clean dog that will rarely make a mess and keep their dining area really clean.

When it comes to climate, the Siberian Husky just loves colder climates. As a matter of fact, some of them are happiest in the coldest climates. Even if the wind is whipping and snow is falling down, this is a breed that loves everything to do with cold climates. If you live in a warm climate, such as the west or southwest, for example, this may not be the right dog breed for your family and lifestyle. 

However, since they have a double coat that is unique in nature, the heat is not going to penetrate as easily so some dogs in this breed are able to adjust gradually. It is simply important to take extra care as well as health precautions when the weather heats up.

While it never means leaving them alone for long stretches, the Siberian Husky is well known for being a fairly independent dog. This breed simply loves human attention and love spending time with their owners. If you are able to devote time and exercise with plenty of love, this could be the right breed for you.



Tuesday, August 7, 2018

GERMAN SHEPHERD Dog History and Characteristics

German Shepherd Dog from 1915
German Shepherd Dog from 1915 (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
The German Shepherd Dog Is Also Known By These Other Names: Alsatian, Deutscher Schaferhund, GSD.

German Shepherd Dog Temperament
The German Shepherd dog is amongst the most intelligent of dogs and its versatility and excellence in performing all manner of activities has secured its eternal position in the hall of fame when it comes to policing duties, search and rescue, military functions such as bomb-sniffing and even as sight-seeing dogs for people who are blind or those with impaired eyesight. The German Shepherd is a quick study and due to their innate high intelligence are very easy to train.

These dogs are active, alert and like many other animals of a high intelligence and active nature, the German Shepherd needs to be constantly challenged and stimulated both physically and mentally to avoid becoming a nuisance. That said, this dog breed makes a great companion and is both brave and loyal. Though some dogs tend to be somewhat aloof and wary by and large this dog breed makes for a great family pet and they generally get on well with children. Occasionally certain dogs may become a tad domineering with children which may manifest in the form of the German Shepherd trying to herd them about; in keeping with its breeding pedigree.

German Shepherd dogs have excellent watchdog ability and are typically wary of both strangers and other dogs. Early socialization is a must if your dog is going to be around other animals. As far as climate tolerance is concerned these dogs adapt fairly well to moderate cold as well as moderate heat, though extremes in either direction don't go down well.

German Shepherd Dog Grooming & Exercise Requirements
The German Shepherd boasts a high energy level and thus this dog breed requires plenty of exercise on a daily basis. Its grooming requirements, however, are not quite as demanding and its coat only requires brushing once or twice a week. The German Shepherd is a moderate to heavy shedder and thus is perhaps not the best choice of dog for allergy sufferers.

German Shepherd Dog Appearance
The body of the German Shepherd dog is typically longer than it is tall and in the modern variant when the animal is standing the body slopes downwards as though the dog is poised to spring off of its hind legs. This was not always the case, the early variant of the German Shepherd dog having a squarer body and less slanting haunches. The tail is usually bushy and hangs with a slight curve.

This dog breed boasts an athletic build and erects ears atop a head with a pointed snout which enhances the alert appearance of the dog. Coat color may vary and includes the following: black, black and tan and sable. From a show dog perspective, white-coated dogs are not allowed although of recent there is a movement for such specimens to be represented in their own sub-category.
This dog breed has a double coat with a thick outer coat comprised of close-lying medium-length hair that may be straight or slightly wavy.

Weight: Males: 75 - 100 pounds
Females: 60 - 80 pounds

Height: Males: 24 - 26 inches

Females: 22 - 24 inches
German Shepherd Dog Health Issues/Life Expectancy
This dog breed on average has a lifespan of 10 - 12 years. Due to rather intense in breeding over the years the German Shepherd dog suffers from a number of genetic disorders which include the following:

Major Concerns:

CHD
Elbow Dysplasia

Minor Concerns: Panosteitis; vWD; Degenerative Myelopathy; Cauda Equina; Skin Allergies; Hot Spots; Neoplasms; Pannus; Cataract; Gastric Torsion; Perianal Fistulas; Cardiomyopathy; Hemangiosarcoma

German Shepherd dogs are also extremely susceptible to a potentially fatal systemic infection from the fungus Aspergillus.

German Shepherd Dog History
The modern German Shepherd dog is the end result of a concerted effort in the late 19th century to breed the perfect German sheep herding dog. Up until that time, each district boasted its own distinct herding dog. To achieve the perfect herding dog various dog breeds from the north were crossbred with those from the central district ultimately resulting with the forbearer of the modern German Shepherd.

The goal of the German Shepherd dog breeding program was to produce a dog that could watch out for and control straying sheep from the rest of the flock without spooking the entire flock. Thus unlike cattle herding dogs, it was undesirable for the German Shepherd dog to exhibit leg nipping and neither could it control its wards by barking at them because either one of those attributes would more than likely cause the entire flock to panic!

In essence, the German Shepherd dog breeding program had to come up with an extremely intelligent, versatile, swift and independent thinking breed of dog that executed its duties in a precise, swift, calm and steady manner.


Between 1899 and 1901 a specialist breed club was established and was originally headquartered in Stuttgart before moving to Munich and then finally ending up in Berlin. This club was known as Der Verein Fur Schaferhunde (SV for short), and this organization's primary goal and purpose was to oversee the continued positive development of the German Shepherd dog breed.

Within a decade of its breeding, the German Shepherd dog had soon become one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. Its rising star in popularity was slightly marred by the occurrence of the two world wars, when it was considered prudent in both Britain and France to refer to the dog breed as either an Alsatian or simple the Shepherd Dog to avoid the inevitable backlash at the time associated with the word German incorporated in the dog breed's name.



Monday, August 6, 2018

BARKING Problems: Train Your Dog To Stop BARKING!

English: Barking Dog
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.



Saturday, August 4, 2018

DIABETES: Could it be Affecting your Cat?

Three-legged, orange tabby cat -- Truman.
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.


Friday, August 3, 2018

Purebred Backgrounds - POODLE Information

English: A medium sized poodle in Scandinavian...
A medium sized poodle in a Scandinavian clip
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Blue at election time Standard Poodle
Blue at election time Standard Poodle (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Poodle Toy Adulto
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.




Thursday, August 2, 2018

Some Information Regarding CAIRN TERRIER Pet Dogs

Cairn-Terrier
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.


Wednesday, August 1, 2018

CAIRN TERRIER - Dogs of the World

Cairn Terrier - Dogs of the World



Tuesday, July 31, 2018

Will Your DOG SURVIVE The Summer Sun?

Taking A Break
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.



Monday, July 30, 2018

How To Take Care Of RAGDOLL KITTENS

Flame point Ragdoll kitten
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.






Saturday, July 28, 2018

What Is A SHIH TZU Standard?

A Shih Tzu fully groomed for a dog show.
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.




Friday, July 27, 2018

Human Food For Your GOLDEN RETRIEVER

DSC05569
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.


Wednesday, July 25, 2018

Warm Climates and FRENCH BULLDOGS: Not the Best Combination!

English and French Bulldogs
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.



Monday, July 23, 2018

BASSET HOUND Puppy - Puppies of the World

Basset Hound Puppy - Puppies of the World




Saturday, July 21, 2018

BASSET HOUND - Laid Back And Loving

English: This is a full body shot of my 7 year...
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.