Pets - Advice, News, Photos and Fun!

Lost Pets PLUS Grooming Tips

2009-11-27T21:39:00.000-08:00

Pet Talk: Oreo's Shattered Life Snarled in Cruelty Questions
By Sharon L. Peters, Special for USA TODAY

Young pit bull Oreo suffered broken legs and other injuries after her owner threw her off the roof of a six-story Brooklyn building last June. Her story led to an outpouring of support and offers of a new home. But officials said her growing aggressiveness was too much of a danger to people and other animals, and Oreo was euthanized Friday.
She became the sweet-faced emblem of animal survival in the face of unspeakable human cruelty.

Oreo, a young brown and white pit bull, was thrown by her owner from the roof of his six-story Brooklyn apartment building last summer. Against all odds, the heap of shattered bones was still breathing when animal control arrived shortly afterward and rushed her to the ASPCA's Bergh Memorial Animal Hospital. Veterinarians tended to her smashed-up legs and fractured rib, and they medicated her heavily, stunned that as bad as the injuries were, there wasn't more damage.

The dog's owner, Fabian Henderson, 19. was arrested. And Oreo became a rallying point in New York and across the nation. Folks e-mailed her photo and story to friends, cheered her from the sidelines and monitored her recovery.

In the humid summertime nastiness of uncertain finances and job security, Oreo became something more than a survivor. She became living proof that goodness could, perhaps, actually prevail over evil.

On Friday, 147 days after her miracle survival, Oreo was euthanized.

She had recovered from her physical injuries. But she was so aggressive that the ASPCA concluded she couldn't be placed in a foster home or adopted to any of the many people who had, from a distance, begged to take her.

"Usually with aggressive dogs you have something to work with," a deflated-sounding ASPCA CEO Ed Sayres told me Friday. Maybe there's one dog those animals can tolerate, or a particular handler they seem to hate less than the others, or you can identify triggers that set them off and avoid them. Over time you can build on that, and very often have the kind of progress they've pulled off many times, he said.

But Oreo lunged and snarled at dogs and people, often growing so angry when she couldn't reach them that she'd redirect her anger at the closest person. She often raged without any clear stimulant at all, as if there was something simmering deep inside her that spilled over without warning.

She had 59 sessions of about 45 minutes each to try to dampen her reactiveness and unpredictability. Nothing worked. "We have one behaviorist who fears nothing when it comes to dogs. About once every three years she's afraid of one. She was afraid of Oreo," Sayres said.

They called in an outside veterinary behaviorist. She expressed grave concerns. It might be possible to drug Oreo every day so she'd pose less threat, the vet said, but the drugs might, as they sometimes (though rarely) do, make her worse.

Turning Oreo over to a sanctuary was discussed at length. Some offered to take her. The ASPCA consensus was that she was so rageful and unpredictable that she'd be relegated to a woefully isolated existence.

A euthanasia order was signed.

The announcement was made Thursday night, and public response was instant and harsh. By noon Friday when I interviewed him, Sayres had received 250 e-mails, uncounted numbers of phone calls and some death threats. Soon, an online petition demanding his resignation was launched; more than 1,000 people have signed.

"I had to protect public safety," he said. "But I also had to do what was in the best interest of Oreo."

Sayres said he understands and appreciates the "life at all costs" philosophy and the deep feeling among so many that, after all she'd been through, she deserved to live out her days in a sanctuary. But he's convinced the strategies required to protect people and animals would have resulted in "profound suffering" for Oreo.

If there's any comfort that at least some people might be able to take from this, it's what ASPCA animal behaviorist Stephen Zawistowski said when I spoke with him. "Oreo didn't die when she was thrown from that building — traumatically, fear-filled, when the last hand to touch her was a cruel hand. She left this world without stress or panic, in a quiet room, after she'd been sedated, with people who'd cared for her. The last hand she felt was a gentle hand."

If additional comfort could ultimately be drawn from this, that might come if Oreo were to somehow serve as the impetus for caring people to gird themselves and come to terms with some truths easier left undisturbed. In shelters across the country Friday, hundreds, perhaps thousands, of dogs met Oreo's fate for the same reason she did: They were too violent — because people made them that way. At least Oreo got the benefit of months of efforts to try to make her capable of living peacefully in this world; most of the rest did not because most shelters haven't the time, resources or expertise to work with such animals.

An even bigger tragedy, if there's a lesser-greater scale in these matters (and probably there's not), is that also on Friday, thousands of perfectly friendly dogs lost their lives in shelters simply because of the numbers reality: No more animals could be crammed in, but more are always arriving because people get bored with them or don't feel like training them, or let them create litters. So discarded pets must die to make room for more discarded pets.

At some shelters, the kill rate is 90%, and the vast majority aren't too vicious or too sick to save. They're merely victims of overpopulation.

Oh, and the guy behind Oreo's ascension to the public eye, Henderson? He pleaded guilty to aggravated cruelty to an animal, and was released on his own recognizance. Sentencing will take place next month. Justice insiders say he'll likely get five years of probation and be told he can't own an animal for five years.

Choosing the Right Pet for You
By Body and Mind staff - PennLive.com

Adopting a pet shouldn't be a snap decision. A lot of thought and planning is necessary before bringing an animal into your life.
Considerations include identifying how much time and space you have for a pet, the temperament of the animal and the preferences of household members, especially if the household includes children and other pets. You'll also want to take into account any health issues such as allergies to pet saliva or dander and whether it's legal to have the kind of pet you want where you live.

It's also important to research your choices before making a final selection. Tracy Wagner decided to look at pit bulls after moving into a house with a yard in Lower Paxton Twp.

"My boyfriend had had a pit bull in the past, and when I volunteered at the Humane Society I saw how misunderstood they are," said Wagner, a community relations representative at Belco Credit Union. "Pit bulls can be just as loving as other breeds despite the stigmas and stereotypes. It's all in how the animal is raised."

When Wagner met Dominick the pit bull -- that's "Dom" for short -- and eventually adopted him from the Humane Society of Harrisburg Area Inc., she was happy to see the dog lived up to her expectations by licking her face and wanting his belly rubbed.

For other pet owners, an animal's companionship also provides a form of aid. When Linda Ekelman's husband developed dementia, she was afraid to leave the room because he needed her constantly. The couple's Labrador was "too energetic" to help. Ekelman found respite for herself as well as distraction and comfort for her husband in a cat.

Through Castaway Critters, the Perry County woman adopted a kitten who liked to climb on her husband's shoulders and put its head under his chin. "My husband was reasonably unemotional then, but he developed a real affection for the cat," Ekelman recalled. "When the cat got sick and we had to put him down, my husband kept asking for it."

Ekelman adopted two more kittens before her husband died. Both were "very therapeutic" for him.

But the search for the perfect pet can be challenging. To begin, make sure every member of your household is ready to adopt. Lillian Byers of Etters was seeking a dog who could get along well with her surrogate family: a child with hearing-impairments she cares for while his mother is at work, his mother and her dogs. Byers found and adopted Dozer, a Shih Tzu mix, from Castaway Critters. Though abused and sick before a foster parent took him in, Byers said Dozer is now "the sweetest dog in the world." Her friend's child considers the pet as his own.

"Owning a pet is a big responsibility," said Kelly Hitz of the Humane Society. "A lot of people don't think ahead. If they get a puppy, they may be looking to a 10- to 15-year commitment and that's hard, especially with busy lifestyles and with kids. They may not have the time needed to spend with a pet."

With dogs, it's important to research breeds in terms of their level of activity. Often people come to the Humane Society with firm ideas of which type of animal they want and which personality or breed they prefer. "But when they describe their circumstances, we might say the choice is not so good," Hitz said. "We try to get a handle on the animals' personalities. Dogs get a temperament test to see if they're good with men, women, kids and other dogs."

It is recommended that every human member of the household spend some time with a pet before adopting it. Of course, there still may be surprises, said Nina Mantione, a veterinarian with Good Hope Animal Hospital in Mechanicsburg. "An animal doesn't always behave in a shelter or in foster care the way he would otherwise," Mantione said. "The animal may seem more withdrawn because of the stress of being in the shelter."

It may be hard to give specific advice if you don't know the prospective pet owner's situation, but the veterinarian can offer general tips. For example:

•Have young children? Avoid large-breed dogs as they tend to be too energetic and require a lot of exercise.

•Have teenagers? Your family might benefit from having a dog with energy to burn. "You might want to avoid extremely shy or extremely aggressive dogs," Mantione added. "A very shy one can be aggressive if threatened. You probably want to look for an easygoing, friendly dog without it being 'wild and crazy.'"
Annette Reiff, a longtime volunteer with Castaway Critters (and Patriot-News columnist), urged potential adopters to think twice before choosing a specific pet. "I've seen cases of people who returned kittens to rescue groups or shelters because they were "too active," when a little research would have told them to expect this," she said. "It's great to ask a lot of questions."

But along with information you need determination. It can be stressful for an animal to be adopted and then returned, Reiff emphasized.

Unwilling to meet the demands of a dog or cat, some people may consider a smaller animal as a pet. Hitz agreed that a rabbit may be a good option to provide companionship and teach responsibility to a family who's not yet canine- or feline-ready. Prospective owners should familiarize themselves first with the requirements for caging, bedding and handling of these pets.

"With a bunny you have more husbandry," she said. "You have to clean the cage and change the water bottle, and the bunny may not be as personable as a dog or cat."

Small animals in general can be more delicate. Guinea pigs, for example, need vitamin C (through supplements or fresh vegetables) to prevent scurvy. And, "you may have to watch kids around hamsters, gerbils or guinea pigs," Mantione advised. "They're not recommended for families with kids 5 and under."

Kids and holiday time might lead to the thought of giving pets as presents. But that's not recommended, the experts noted.

"Everyone in the family should meet the pet before it comes home," Hitz said. "If someone wants to pay for the adoption fee, that's fine. But a pet shouldn't be a gift the family doesn't know about. At the very least you have to make sure the primary caregiver is compatible with it."

Caring for your pet

Make sure the pet you select is home-ready, which means it has been spayed/neutered and given all of its necessary shots. A license and an initial round of shots are offered by the Humane Society of Harrisburg Area Inc. as part of the adoption fee. The society also provides twice-a-month low-cost vaccinations, microchipping (for identification) and other pet products.

Area rescue groups offer periodic spay/neuter clinics for existing pet cats and feral ones. Vaccinations and other services are available at community events such as Woofstock.

"But we want people to know getting shots for their animals is not enough," cautioned Kelly Hitz of the Humane Society. "It doesn't take the place of an annual visit to the vet."

Click on banner to visit The Pet Warehouse

Curbing Fido’s Financial Strain
By LearnVest - RecessionWire.com
Having a pet is a fine balance: We love our pooches, but we know that pet hair isn’t a fashion accessory. They burrow in our purses, poke out of our car windows, and try to lick our face masks away. We’ve compiled the best insider tips to help you scratch away at your pet’s expenses—you and Junior won’t remember how you coexisted without us!

Look For Veterinary Colleges. Money isn’t a reason not to bring your pet in for regular checkups, but vet visits are expensive. Do a quick Google search or refer to this list to see if there are any veterinary colleges in your area. If so, they are probably looking for new patients and likely offered reduced rates. Don’t worry about putting Mr. Fuzzy in the hands of students—they are supervised and accredited for treating animals!

Go To The Vet Regularly! We know that this may be hard for some money-savers to stomach, but going in for regular “tuneups and oil changes” is the first line of financial defense of your pet care bills. Failure to diagnose early will translate to much more expensive treatment bills in the future. For example, canine cataract surgery can easily cost $2,000 to $3,000, and a kidney transplant can cost $7,000 or more. Treating heartworm in a dog can cost over $700, whereas heartworm prevention ranges from about $5 to $15 per month.

Consider Pet Insurance. Pet coverage can cost $2,000 to $6,000 over the course of your pet’s life, and odds are that you probably won’t wind up paying that much for any particular treatment. All the same, if you’re one of those people who would do absolutely anything for your pet, then pet insurance might make sense…

Dogs and Cats in Las Vegas to be Spayed or Neutered
USA Today
Hello, readers. Here's a topic we haven't talked about yet: when and if pets should be sterilized? One city has a lot to say about this subject and is taking action.

According to a story in the Las Vegas Review-Journal, The Las Vegas city council passed a new ordinance this past week requiring most cats and dogs to be spayed or neutered by four months of age.

The ordinance takes effect April 1. It is in response to Southern Nevada's pet overpopulation problem and had support from local veterinarians and animal rescue groups. Every year The Lied Animal Shelter takes in about 50,000 animals, 86% of which are not sterilized. The shelter has seen its number of impounded d0gs increase 10% a year for the past three years. The cat intake is up 5% annually. Overall, the shelter has to euthanize about half of the animals.

Exceptions to the new ordinance are individuals with a breeder, animal handler or fancier permit, and for pets that qualify for a medical exemption. Violating the ordinance will be a misdemeanor.

AmeriMark Direct is a leading direct marketer of women's apparel, shoes, name-brand cosmetics, fragrances, jewelry, watches, accessories, and health-related merchandise.

Pet Dog for Christmas? Wait 'Til After Holidays
AnimalFriends.org
Potential ethical insurance shoppers who are considering getting a pet dog for the holidays may want to heed some expert advice and wait until Christmas has come and gone.

Times Courier Dog Speak columnist Katie Gammill said "reputable breeders will not release small puppies during the holidays".

She noted this is because it is a chaotic, busy time for everybody and this was not the best situation in which to welcome a pooch into the household.

Firstly, the puppy could be ignored with so much going on and Ms Gammill even suggested some families have let the animal outside to relieve itself and forgotten about it.

Secondly, this kind of environment could be quite stressful for an animal with so many sights and sounds.

And many welfare authorities including the Humane Society of the United States have reminded people that there are many preparations to be made before welcoming a new pet into the home.

This could mean it is not the type of present that should be sprung on someone or bought on an impulse.

Specialized Veterinary Care: At What Point? And At What Price?
By Patty Khuly, Special for USA TODAY
Over the past 10 years veterinary medicine has witnessed an explosion in the number of veterinarians heading into three- and four-year residency programs after veterinary school. An estimated 40% of veterinary students now vie for postgraduate positions, up from less than 10% a decade ago.

Translation? More education means more veterinarians offering expert services in cardiology, neurology, ophthalmology, surgery, internal medicine, dermatology, anesthesiology, radiology, behavior medicine and more.

No longer is your general-practice veterinarian expected to provide you with all the services your pets need, à la James Herriot. In fact, it's gotten so that veterinarians who don't mention the services of specialists when it comes to non-routine veterinary matters risk legal action for not offering their clients an informed choice regarding their pets' care.

And that's probably a good thing, right? You (the client) get more options while your pet (the patient) gets the benefit of access to higher-quality medicine previously available only in veterinary school settings. That is … if you can afford it.

Yes, specialty practices are expensive. These multi-doctor hospitals typically charge two to three times what your regular veterinarian would for the same services. But, to be fair, they also offer much more than your regular vet ever could: round-the-clock critical care, certified veterinary technicians, CT scans, MRIs, radiation therapy and nuclear medicine … among other menu items previously labeled "for humans only."

Problem is, it's gotten so that it's not always so clear when a pet owner should see an expert. When is a general practitioner not good enough? When does a pet's condition demand the skills of a specialist?

While our leading professional organizations have issued guidelines for when veterinarians should refer to specialists (reference the American Veterinary Medical Association and the American Animal Hospital Association), they're loosey-goosey at best on the particular circumstances in which a veterinarian should recognize his or her limitations and offer the services of an expert. It's still up to each individual veterinarian to decide when to refer. Failing that, it's up to pet owners to be educated enough to ask for a referral for non-routine surgeries, difficult diagnoses and complex problems if they want the best possible care for their pets.

So where does that leave pet owners who really need to know when it's best that their pet see a specialist?

Every veterinarian has their own personal philosophy on this issue, but since this is my column I'll offer you mine:

#1 Any second opinion.

Don't see another general practitioner. If it's a tough problem for your vet, it'll likely be tough for the next one. See a specialist for best results.

#2 Any lack of trust.

Should you fail to trust your veterinarian when it comes to a diagnosis or treatment option, see a specialist.

#3 Any legal matter.

If you have a legal issue with an individual, a company or even a veterinarian, you need an expert.

#4 Any orthopedic surgery or thoracic surgery.

Orthopedic and thoracic surgeries are ALWAYS best performed by a board-certified surgeon. Experience is everything in these cases.

#5 Any exploratory surgery.

Again, a board-certified surgeon should always be offered. After all, we never know whether what we'll find once we get in there will be something we can't manage as well as someone more expert than ourselves.

#6 Any time it takes more than three visits to solve a problem.

Most problems that require more than three visits to manage deserve the offer of a referral.

#7 When better equipment is needed.

Most specialists offer better equipment than regular vets do. It often makes all the difference.

#8 Heart trouble.

ANY time I hear a heart murmur or cardiac rhythm abnormality, I recommend the services of a cardiologist. (Again, reference better equipment.)

#9 X-ray or ultrasound images.

It's my take that every questionable X-ray or ultrasound image should see a radiologist.

#10 Every time critical care is required.

High, unrelenting fevers, blood transfusion cases, respiratory trouble, complicated diabetes, severe arrhythmias, non-routine post-operative patients (among others): They all do best under 24-hour watch at a specialty hospital.

Problem is, not everyone is willing or able to spend gobs of money on saving their pets. We all draw the line at a different dollar value and various treatment levels based on our philosophical beliefs with respect to pet care and animal welfare along with very practical considerations regarding the condition of our bank accounts.

It's been posited that specialty veterinary medicine represents the death of modern society in all its frivolous glory. Some observe that the choices seem overwhelming and confusing, especially given the disparity among veterinarians with respect to specialist referral policies. Still others embrace the new choices with grateful fervor, happy to spend whatever it takes … which is not as difficult as it may seem given that intensive care typically costs no more than a leather interior package on a luxury car.

In any case, specialists in veterinary medicine are here to stay. We'll doubtless have more in years to come as more students opt for specialization as a way to meet their hefty financial obligations (reference student loan debt). And if the trend toward pets in all things American continues apace as it has done for the past 20 years, we can expect demand for these services to continue to drive even more veterinarians to enter the Byzantine medical morass that is specialized veterinary medicine.

Will we miss James Herriot? I will, for sure. But that doesn't mean I'll play ostrich to the kind of sophisticated medicine I've come to expect for my patients as well as for my own pets.

Click on banner to visit this site

Grooming Tips to Keep Pets Prim and Proper
By EMC News
Pet parents know there are many responsibilities that come with having a pet as a part of the family. Medical care, feeding and watering, providing exercise, and offering moderate entertainment are all par for the course. Another consideration is keeping your pet well groomed and clean.

Depending upon your pet, grooming may need to be a frequent or intermittent part of care. Birds, for example, may need nail trimming every once in a while. Cats keep themselves relatively clean, so may only require nail trimming and infrequent baths. Fish don't need grooming, per se, however you will have to keep the tank clean and at the right pH.

When it comes to grooming, most people associate the task with dog ownership. Dogs of all shapes and sizes, with various coat types, may require more grooming than other animals. Grooming may feature home involvement, professional grooming or a combination of both.

Professional groomers will offer an array of services and are the way to go if you do not have the time or the ability to bathe, dry and shape your pet's coat. Depending upon the groomer, certain services will be rendered at every grooming appointment. Here are some things to expect:

* the grooming appointment will likely last a few hours from start to finish

* your pet will be brushed and bathed

* some groomers use a dryer for your pet, others believe it is better to let the coat air-dry

* detangling and dematting will occur if the pet needs it

* ears and teeth may be cleaned

* nails are trimmed

* emptying of dog's digestive system may occur

* clipping and shaving of coat will take place

* if pet has fleas, a flea dip will be offered

* advice on routine maintenance may be given

Pets who are introduced to the grooming experience early on whether at-home brushing or visits to a groomer will become less nervous and more tolerant of the experience. While groomers expect some skittishness from certain pets, your animal may be refused if he or she is overly aggressive. You may want to consult with a veterinarian to see if a sedative is helpful or necessary to make grooming sessions less traumatic.

Grooming is not just for aesthetic purposes. Regularly cleaning and brushing a pet's coat ensures that the skin remains healthy and receives adequate air and blood circulation. Matting or other problems can cause infection or fungus to form, or hot spots that lead to irritation.

Act Fast When Pet Becomes Lost
By Gail Krueger - SavannahNow.com

A few weeks ago, my friends' dog, Maggie, dug out from under their backyard fence and disappeared into their Wilmington Island neighborhood.

Those of us who know Maggie felt our collective hearts sink; surrounded by woods, marshy ponds and next to U.S. 80, it was not a good place for a shy, scared dog to run loose.

The upside was that many caring neighbors and kids in the area kept their eyes open for Maggie. She was spotted several times as she raced around. Several of us walked the area looking for her. We knew her shyness would keep her from coming to anyone but her mom, but we wanted to keep her in sight.

In the wee hours of the morning, Maggie came to the front door and barked. Hungry, thirsty, muddy with mats and burrs in her coat, she found her way back. We were all happy and relieved, knowing that it could have been our dog and not all such stories have happy endings.

Steps to safety

HomeAgain, a pet microchip registration service, says that without proper identification, 90 percent of lost pets never get home. The American Humane Society says that one in 1 in 3 pets will become lost in their lifetime and that only 15 percent of lost dogs and 2 percent of lost cats find their way home. Almost 4 million pets are euthanized every year, according to American Humane Society; many of them lost family pets.

All of this went through my mind when the notice came to renew my dog Tipper's microchip registration. Unlike Maggie, Tipper will go up to anybody. I don't think she would ever run away; more likely she would embark on a good will tour of the region. No Walmart greeter has anything on Tipper.

Even though times are tough, I'm going to pay the $15 annual fee again.

You can get a microchip implanted at your vet's office or at clinic events run by local rescue groups like Save-a-Life. The theory is that if your missing pet is found, a vet, animal shelter or rescue group can run a scanner over the animal and find the chip. Even if their brand of scanner cannot read your pet's brand of chip, it should be detectable. That detection turns the animal into a lost pet instead of a stray.

Of course, this all depends on somebody getting their hands on your pet, running the scan and doing it correctly. And, most importantly, it depends on you sending in the registration.

Does that mean microchips aren't worth the money? Hardly. They are a great way - but not the only way - to keep your pet safe.

A well-fitted, no-slip or martingale-style collar with a prominent ID tag on it is the first line of defense. Again, reading the phone number engraved on the tag (or embroidered on the collar, or engraved on a small plate attached to the collar) depends on someone getting their hands on your pet. But they are more likely to try, as the collar lets them know this is a pet, not a stray.

Understanding a bit about animal behavior can help you recover a lost pet. The Missing Pet Partnership, a national, nonprofit organization dedicated to reuniting lost companion animals with their owners, has a great Web site (www.missingpetpartnership.org) with behavior-based tips for finding pets. The group notes that dogs run away for three common reasons: an opportunistic journey, wanderlust or blind panic.

An opportunist journey can start with a gate or door accidently left open. The dog follows her instinct and nose and ends up miles away. Wanderlust is common for intact male dogs who try every means of escape to reach a female - a good reason to neuter your dog. A panicky dog goes into flight mode if it is scared by thunder, loud noises or a traumatic incident which can be as simple as a toppled table or as extreme as a car wreck.

The panicky dog travels fastest and farthest and its behavior - shyness, slinking away from people, hiding - makes this pet the hardest to find, like Maggie would have been. When they are found, their fearful behavior often leads would-be rescuers to assume they've been abused.

Temperament also plays a role. A shy, aloof or fearful dog can be hardest to help because of its behavior. Again, well-meaning people sometimes assume they are abused. Another good reason to make sure your dog is well socialized.

Whatever your dog's reason or temperament, if it gets lost, act fast. You don't want to miss the opportunity in the early hours to run into the person who saw your dog traveling down a certain road or sniffing in a certain park.

I've included a short check list on things to do if your pet becomes lost.

Act fast, be persistent and enlist the help of friends. All of these will help your Lassie come home.

Gail Krueger writes the Savannah Weeder column and about her other passion, pets. Send her an e-mail at savannahweeder@ yahoo.com.

Tips
Do all you can to prevent your pet from getting lost in the first place. Go to www.missingpetpartnership.org for some great prevention tips.

What to do if your pet is lost:

-- Call the animal control and humane shelters. And keep calling. Visit in person. Take copies of your pet's picture. People can interpret a written description of a pet in many different ways and misidentify breeds.

-- Post a lost pet notice wherever you can: newspaper, televisions stations, petfinder and Craig's list. Most media outlets give free brief listing for lost and found pets. Don't be shy about spending the money to do a bigger listing with more detail.

-- Large signs with your pet's full-color picture and your phone number posted at intersections near your home and at major intersections are an easy and effective way of getting your pet back. Smaller notices with color pictures are good to post at vet's offices, on bulletin boards and at shelters.

Click here to visit The EZ Online Shopping Network of Stores

Strange Pet Accessories

2009-11-24T11:39:00.001-08:00

Pet Safety Tips During the Holidays
Gather.com
Holidays are a great time for friends and family but we should also remember to take care of our furry friends! Pet safety tips are always good to know, but during the holidays pet owners need to be especially mindful of our pets. Animal hospitals and veternarians see a surge in animal injuries during the holiday season, but with a few safety tips we can keep animals safe.

Food & Candy

Candy, and especially chocolate, can be fatal to animals – especially cats. The wrappers can also be fatal to animals since they are sharp and can do internal damage.

Holiday leftovers, or “scraps” are high in fat and are too rich for pets. These foods can cause digestive turmoil for animals that are not used to these foods. In addition, this can create bad behaviors, such as begging during mealtimes.

Bones can be very dangerous for dogs. Bones can splinter easily and when ingested can be fatal!

Be mindful of pets that sneak up under your feet while carrying hot plates around. Hot drippings can scald animals.

This should go without saying but, animals should not be given any alcoholic beverages at any time – save the libations for your guests!

Decorations

Certain decorative items can be harmful to your pets, such as candles, tinsel, and ornaments.

Small ornaments and tinsel can be ingested and cause obstructed airways and choking.

Animals can be attracted to light in a dark room, be sure that candles are placed high enough that a pet will not get burned.

We all know presents look great with ribbon but ribbon can also be chewed on causing the same obstructions in the airway that tinsel would cause. Also, try to refrain from tying ribbon around your pets neck, it could cut off their airway or they could get caught on something that would cause suffocation.

Many plants can be toxic if ingested. Check this list to make sure your plants are non-toxic.

Routine

Frenzied schedules and new house guests can put stress on animals, so try to keep your animals routine the same. However, be mindful of constantly open and closing doors as animals can slip out easily. Be especially mindful of black cats during Halloween. They should be kept inside for their safety.

Follow these simple tips and you’ll keep your furry babies safe and happy through the holidays!

Protecting Your Pet While Selling Your Home
By Sking - viprealty.com
Your pet is your pride and joy, and is considered a member of the family. It is therefore extremely important to take precautions throughout the home-selling process to ensure that your pet remains safe and protected, and that your buyers aren’t turned off.

The number-one problem with pets when selling your home is what to do with them during a showing or open house. It is important to not only consider the comfort and safety of your guests, but the comfort and safety of your pet, as well.

The following tips can help you protect your beloved pet while showing your property:

--Consider a back-up location during showings and open houses. Ask a neighbor, friend or family member to take care of your pet during these times, or simply set up kennel time. Although this may not be the most ideal situation, it eliminates any problems with those buyers who may not like animals or those that are allergic to animals.

--If your pet must remain in the house during showings and open houses, put it in an area of the home where it can’t escape. A laundry room, spare bedroom or the garage are good spots to keep Fido or Fluffy, as long as you aren’t keeping potential buyers from seeing the main areas of your home.

--Post a sign on the door to the room your pet is staying in to discourage visitors from opening the door.

--Keeping your pet safely locked in a room - or keeping your pet completely out of the home during the showing or open house - will prevent your guests from tripping over your pet and becoming hurt, and will eliminate the chance of your pet escaping from open doors.

--If you can, simply take your pet with you during open houses and showings. A walk around the neighborhood or a drive around town during these times is often a convenient and practical solution.

Pain Patch For Horses, Dogs, And Cats: HealFast
by Lady Bee - InventorSpot.com
If you've ever had to give your dog, cat or horse pain medicine, you don't want to keep them in the resulting state of mind and body very long. As alternative medicine for humans, the PEMF, Pulsed Electro-Magnetic Field, is a non-drug treatment that has been used to treat pain by alternative medicine specialists with reported success.

PEMF equipment is large, cumbersome, and expensive. It is not easily accessible by an animal, and treatment usually requires several visits. But BioElectronics Corporation has developed a use-at-home electro-magnetic field within a patch, called HealFastTM. The patch provides therapy for pain and/or swelling between visits to the veterinarian.

There are two types of HealFast patches available: One is a post-operative patch, designed to reduce pain and swelling after surgery and help wounds to heal. The other version, more for chronic soft tissue pain, enables the pet owner to turn the patch on and off, depending on when pain relief is needed.

Van E. Snow, D.V.M. of Equine Veterinary Asociates, has been testing the patch, successfully. "I have found the patch to reduce pain and inflammation which therefore promotes a healthier environment for healing to take place. The patch is more user friendly than other pulsed electromagnetic field modalities that are available today."

For dogs and cats, HealFast makes a special pain relief patch that you can place directly over a sore area without it adhering to their fur.

The HealFast website provides good information on the treatments available through patches. If and when your cat, dog, or horse is in need of pain relief, you may want to ask your veterinarian about HealFast. Maybe pain drugs should be your pet's last resort.

Click on banner to visit The Pet Warehouse

Thanks to Kathy in BHC, AZ

Finally, a Grateful Cat

A cat died and went to Heaven. God met her at the gates and said, 'You have been a good cat all these years. Anything you want is yours for the asking.'

The cat thought for a minute and then said, 'All my life I lived on a farm and slept on hard wooden floors. I would like a real fluffy pillow to sleep on.'

God said, 'Say no more.' Instantly the cat had a huge fluffy pillow.

A few days later, six mice were killed in an accident and they all went to Heaven together. God met the mice at the gates with the same offer that He made to the cat

The mice said, 'Well, we have had to run all of our lives: from cats, dogs, and even people with brooms! If we could just have some little roller skates, we would not have to run again.'
God answered, 'It is done.' All the mice had beautiful little roller skates.

About a week later, God decided to check on the cat. He found her sound asleep on her fluffy pillow. God gently awakened the cat and asked, 'Is everything okay? How have you been doing? Are you happy?'

The cat replied, 'Oh, it is WONDERFUL. I have never been so happy in my life. The pillow is so fluffy, and those little Meals on Wheels you have been sending over are delicious!'

Thanks to Bonnie in BHC, AZ

AmeriMark Direct is a leading direct marketer of women's apparel, shoes, name-brand cosmetics, fragrances, jewelry, watches, accessories, and health-related merchandise.

Strange Pet Accessories
wambie.com
The pet business just doesn't stop growing, but sometimes we are surprised by the sorts of accessories that come out for pet and owner.

Some of these inventions are really useful, like the cat bathroom. This invention teaches cats how to take care of business. It seems to work, but you'd have to ask the cat if it is scared to position itself in the cup.

Another invention which seems a bit silly is the portable fish tank. Using the portable fish tank you can take you fish for a walk. But, we all know that goldfish have no memory, so maybe going for a walk is a bit ridiculous. Then there is another invention which is supposed to translate a dog' bark, but how does anyone really know if the translation is correct?

The umbrella leash is one of the inventions we think could be useful. Using it, you can take your dog for a walk and it won't get wet. And what do you think about this beer for dogs? It is made from water, malt and vitamin E and doesn't have any alcohol. According to its creators it is a healthy beverage that dogs love to drink.

Gary Bogue: More About Cat Who Kept Coming Home from 3 Miles Away
By Gary Bogue - Contra Costa Times

Silken-soft cloud scarf

Wraps around Diablo's head:

Jaunty fall fashion.

— haiku by Lura Osgood, Pleasant Hill
Dear Gary:

Thanks for taking time to address my concerns in your Sunday column about my daughter's cat, who keeps coming back to my house from three miles away! I wanted to give you an update on the cat since I wrote to you.

Sure enough, he came back two more times and I just can't stand the thought of him crossing those two busy streets.

I talked to my daughter and she is good with it, too, so the cat is back home to stay.

As much as my daughter will miss him, she agreed that thinking about him trying to get to my house was more nerve-racking.

At least she has two other cats at her new place to keep her company and she knows her kitty is in good hands with "grandma."

Kathi J., cyberspace

Dear Kathi:

That was a good decision.

The cat survived and is now living where it obviously wants to live.

Thanks for doing that.

Dear Gary:

My husband and I are wondering if we should take our pumpkins out to a pasture or an open space so that the cattle, horses, or other wildlife can feed on them.

Or should we just toss them into the recycling container (green container)?

I am sure my husband would love a pumpkin pie, but baking is not my forte (smile!). We look forward to hearing from you!

Joe & Lori Pino,

El Sobrante

Dear Joe & Lori:

Ranchers probably wouldn't like you to feed their livestock and I'm not sure there are any wild creatures that would think pumpkins are all that tasty.

It would be a shame to have to toss your pumpkins out, so why don't you donate them to some pie-loving humans?

The Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano County, 4010 Nelson Ave., Concord, accepts nonperishable food and produce donations. You can call them at 800-870-3663, Ext. 213 to find out more about what times and days they're open, etc.

Anyone living in Santa Clara County can call the Second Harvest Food Bank at 408-266-8866 to see if they'll take your garden produce. If you're in San Mateo County you can call the Second Harvest folks at 650-610-0800.

I'll bet your husband is drooling just thinking about all those soon-to-be pies.

Dear Gary:

I read about the cat returning to his former home in Sunday's column (Nov. 15), and remember reading about a cure.

Put butter on his paws at the new location, and he will lick away the scent of the old home.

I don't know if it works or not, but it should be worth a try.

Anonymous cat lover, cyberspace

Dear Anonymous:

Bonnie Brewer of San Lorenzo also sent me an e-mail on this.

Putting butter on a cat's paws so it will lick away the scent of its old home is an urban myth that doesn't keep these cats from finding their ways home. Ever seen a cat taking its daily bath? The first thing it licks off is its paws. It doesn't need butter to do that.

Click on banner to visit this site

Pet Talk: Canine Companions Boost Readers' Confidence
By Jacques Von Lunen, Special to The Oregon

Olive, a therapy dog, volunteers at the French-American International School as a reading companion. During a recent visit, students Youssef Boshra-Riad, 8 (left), and Spencer Schuh, 8, show the book Spencer wrote to Olive and owner Julie Dubansky.
The little voice barely carries past the brown-haired girl's lips.

"I have a pet. It is a cat." The girl reads the staccato phrases from a thin book in her lap. She doesn't look at her audience; she knows Olive is right next to her, sprawled out on a blanket.

The girl, like the other children waiting their turns, prepared all week for this moment; now she's making sure her reading is spot on. Not that she has to worry about being embarrassed or corrected -- Olive is a retriever-shepherd mix.

Students in this second-grade English class at the French-American International School in the Cedar Hills neighborhood read to the young dog once a week. Teachers and school officials say the new canine visitor will help the children's learning, a safe assumption given the experiences of other Portland schools.

The French-American students' first assignment this year was to produce books about their animals. They wrote stories, drew pictures and sewed pages into bindings to make the small volumes.

That's an involved project for 7- and 8-year-olds. But when their teacher said they'd have a four-legged regular visitor soon, the kids set a deadline.

"It was the kids' idea to read (their own) stories to Olive," says Robin Faltersack, their English teacher. "It motivated them to finish their books."

Both the dog and the humans learn something in their weekly meetings. Olive, much like the students -- for whom second grade is the first time they encounter a strict regimen in English reading -- is a newbie in her field. The dog has garnered fans in her other volunteer jobs at a pediatric dentist's office and in the healing garden at Legacy Good Samaritan Hospital. But she wasn't used to being surrounded by children excited to touch her.

On her first day at the school, Olive was distracted, sniffing and peering out the window, says Julie Dubansky, who adopted Olive as a puppy last year and, with the help of two local trainers, turned her into a registered therapy dog.

The dog's presence calms the children. "They seem to be considerate of Olive," Faltersack says. "They appreciate that she's here and want her to come back." The results were obvious last week: For second-graders just back from recess, this group was very disciplined.

Olive also makes them practice harder. The children's daily homework is to read, which can be laborious for beginners. But "now it's not just about becoming a better reader, but to read (fluently) to Olive," Faltersack says.

She admits she was reluctant initially to give up precious class time to telling stories to a dog. But she has seen motivation go up already; time with Olive is time well-spent for this class.

That matches observations at county libraries and public schools around Portland. The Multnomah County Library's reading-to-dogs program is a hit; kids often sign up weeks ahead of time. Several other schools have brought in dogs over the years, too.

At Gilbert Heights Elementary School in Southeast Portland, Jasper, a yellow Labrador retriever, has visited the library every other Tuesday for the past six years. Librarian John Wolfgang lets teachers choose which kids can read to Jasper.

"It's safe, secure fun for the students," Wolfgang says. "It's for the kids that need a little extra attention, be it for reading or for social one-on-one time."

Walt Morey Middle School in Troutdale has had a dog help out with its literacy-intervention program in the past, says Kevin McCann, the school's reading specialist.

Kids who struggle with reading have experienced a lot of failure by middle school. The lack of confidence can cause, or at least exacerbate, behavior issues and turn kids away from wanting to learn. By the time McCann sees them, students have tested below benchmarks for reading. He uses a national program called Read Naturally to get them back on track.

The program requires students to read a story over and over. "It works perfectly for reading with dogs," McCann says. Last year, when he announced that students could have a canine companion for reading, "some of our most challenged students expressed interest," he says. He plans to request canine assistance again.

For middle school students, getting to pet a dog probably just provides added incentive and rewards them for trying in school. But for younger kids, such as the second-graders at the French-American School, the roots of success run deeper, says a researcher who's written about this topic.

It's easy to see that dogs are nonjudgmental, making it easier for kids to read out loud. But that doesn't tell the whole story, says Gene Myers, an associate professor at Western Washington University who wrote "The Significance of Children and Animals."

Children learn to interpret body language, tone of voice and signs of stress long before they learn English -- or French or Mandarin. But when they do learn the spoken language, they find that adults don't always mean what they say, that their words don't match their nonverbal language.

With dogs, children don't have this problem. Dogs have one way of communicating -- body language -- and children pick it up with ease. "The animal's activity is perceived as especially authentic by children," Myers says.

Also, with adults, children find that words' meanings are narrowly defined; with animals, children are free to interpret words. That would explain why the students at the French-American School have taken to reading to their own pets since Olive came into their lives. It's liberating to find a communication partner who speaks one's own language.

And young children don't find anything wrong with talking to a dog.

"Young kids don't put animals in a category distinct from humans when it comes to language," Myers says.

The librarian at Gilbert Heights can confirm that. The kids there are free to choose which books they read to Jasper; many bring books on dogs. But Wolfgang remembers one student who clearly thought of Jasper as an equal.

"One of the kids brought a knock-knock-joke book to read with Jasper," Wolfgang says, chuckling. "I guess he didn't realize someone would have to answer the knock-knock line."

Or maybe he did.

Advice For Buying A Rabbit
DogTrainingforU.com
Choosing the right rabbit for you and your family can be a very exciting process. There are currently over 40 recognized breeds of rabbits. There are also many different coloured rabbits, so it is interesting to see which ones appeal to your family the most. In addition to these facts, the size of the rabbit in general can vary greatly and you may find that they can be weigh over 10 pounds, in which case you will need to make sure you know what you’re doing with rabbits and have a good understanding of general rabbit care.

Many breeders give different answers regarding the preferred gender for a pet rabbit. A lot of the differences are dependent on how people look after their rabbit. A good example of this is with a doe, as she will become much more territorial as she gets older if she hasn’t been spayed when younger. She may nip at you when reaching for her or even her food or water dishes. However, if a familiar face does the feeding and suchlike, they should calm down considerably. Some does can be non-aggressive, and yet others can become territorial towards everybody, but that is very rare. If you still favour the idea of having a doe, but want her purely as a pet, the best thing to do is to get her spayed. This is a good long-term plan for your rabbit care approach.

Another important thing to consider when it comes to rabbit care is the art of grooming. If you have a luxuriously soft angora rabbit, grooming will become part of your everyday agenda. The wool rabbit breeds will need quite a bit of time spent on them to ensure their grooming is properly done.

There are some recommendations that rabbit owners would suggests, and one is to make sure you don’t buy a rabbit without seeing it first, either at a pet store or from a breeder. Once you know which breed of rabbit you would like to buy, do an online search for a breeder in your local area. Then you can pay the breeder a visit. See what the conditions are in the barn. It is also a good idea to see if you can hold a rabbit whilst you are there. Watch the rabbit’s reaction to their cage being opened. Those happy rabbits in the hutch will come hopping forward hoping you will pick them up. Other rabbits will immediately go to the back of the cage. Look out for these signs as they could indicate that the rabbit won’t make a good pet.

Whilst you should always consider the in depth details that rabbit care involves, the important thing to remember is to enjoy your search for that perfect rabbit. There are many sizes, colours and choices and finding the right one for you can be time consuming but will be very rewarding in the end.

Click here to visit The EZ Online Shopping Network of Stores

Medication for Pet Anxiety?

2009-11-23T00:26:00.000-08:00

Stem Cells Could Save Your Pet's Life
wpbf.com

Local Woman Turns To Cutting Edge Procedure To Keep Her Dog Alive
JUPITER, Fla. -- Seeing your pets suffer in pain can be hard to watch, but a new cutting edge procedure could be the remedy you've been waiting for.

Salmia Witt is a dog owner who spent thousands of dollars trying to help her beloved German shepherd. Witt said nothing seemed to work, so she went searching for a solution and discovered the prescription for relief was inside her dog's body.

Witt owns a 10-year-old shepherd named Ranina, who suffered from arthritis.

"It just progressively got worse. She started gaining a lot of weight, which was even harder on her joints, and then she got to the point where she couldn't really walk at all," Witt said.

In addition to the arthritis, Ranina was overweight and tore her cruciate ligament last winter. Witt said she didn't think Ranina could handle a big surgery.

"I was looking for something that would be more outpatient -- something just as beneficial but less invasive," Witt said.

So Witt took Ranina to veterinarian Dr. Michael Stephan at the Juno Beach Animal Hospital.

Stephan said Ranina was a candidate for a cutting edge procedure using stem cells.

"We discussed an alternative therapy using stem cells from the dog," Stephan said. "Most people are familiar with stem cells from embryonic research or banking cord blood in infants, but stem cells exists in adult bodies also."

Stephan said the procedure is similar to liposuction.

"We removed some of Ranina's fat and sent it to a California company called Vet-Stem," Stephan said. "The company then extracts the stem cells from Ranina's fat and sends us the cells in a syringe. They then go to work to repair the damage that has been done."

About two months after the shot, Ranina's owner said she was back in action.

"She was swimming and playing," Witt said. "She is not 100 percent better, but I would say from the time she had her surgery to now she is 75 percent better."

The procedure ranges in cost from $2,600 to $2,800.

Ready for a Pet? Ask Questions First
By ROBIN Y. RICHARDSON, Marshall News Messenger

Loving, sweet, adorable, funny, innocent, loyal and intelligent is how I would describe "Max a Million."

What Woman Wouldn't Want a Companion Like That In Her Life?

Features editor Robin Richardson holds Max.
I knew I wanted Max A Million, a poodle/terrier mix nicknamed Max, the first time I laid eyes on him when checking my e-mail from the Humane Society of Harrison County to place in the Pets of the Week section of The Marshall News Messenger.

He was available for adoption and I was convinced by myself and others — once I declared my desire for him — that he was the dog for me.

So, I called Kay Hill at the Humane Society and confessed my interest in adopting the dog. She extended an invitation to come to the Humane Society's The Pet Place the next day, a Friday, to meet Max and see if we were compatible.

Max was running, playing chase with the other dogs inside the fenced outside area when I arrived. He's a little thing, but he could definitely keep pace with the pack.

He paused once he heard Sally Socia, director, summon him to meet his potential new owner. Sally gathered the rest of the dogs, led them inside, and let me and Max have some quality time to ourselves outside, getting acquainted with one another.

He must have liked me because he leaped in my lap the moment I sat down and nestled his wet nose against my hand. It was like we already shared a bond.

He didn't cry, he didn't whine, he didn't bark and he didn't howl. He just comfortably rested his head in my lap as if to say, "Thank you, for considering me."

I did consider him and decided to adopt him. Sally gave me some great tips on how to care for a house dog, since this would be my first. I grew up in the country so our dogs were always outside dogs — mainly strays that we ended up caring for.

Her main concern was that Max lived somewhere with a fence or gate so he wouldn't dart away and get lost.

Upon adopting him, I was given all of his medical records, which detailed all of the shots and immunizations he was updated on, and also included his age and breed. I also received adoption papers.

Max didn't leave with me until he was given a collar, which was placed around his neck with an ID tag with my name and phone number to contact me in the event he was lost.

As I was signing the papers, I couldn't believe that Max was actually coming to live with me. That meant, the Humane Society entrusted me to provide adequate shelter, food, water and veterinary care for him. I was responsible for him — possibly for eternity.

But, just in case I had any reservations, Sally was nice enough to allow me to bring him back within a week to see if it was for me. Before I left with him, she equipped me with helpful tips on when to bathe him, feed him and take him outside for relief.

Getting adjusted

The ride home was nice. Max wasn't fussy. He adjusted well, finding himself a comfy spot beneath my coffee table to snooze and watch TV — yes, he actually watched TV. We often watched it together, me on the couch with him stretched out, relaxed across my lap.

Our morning walks became his favorite — and mine too, I must admit. Max was always anxious to take our daily walk early in the morning, even choosing it over eating a bowl of beefy flavored dog chow first. He would bypass his bowl of food and run to the door to spend our morning quality time together walking before I headed to work.

Flattered, I was.

He definitely taught me discipline in that area because I am, by no means, a morning person. But, once Max barked and scratched at my door, I would jump right up out of the bed, put on my walking shoes and clothes and begin our daily regime. I've never exercised that consistently so much in my life! It was great!

I would come home daily for lunch to check on him.

When I had free time at home, we'd spend it playing ball, watching TV or just walking.

Everything was great! He never destroyed my furniture, he was well house-trained, never using the restroom in my home. He was very respectful, smart and sweet.

But, I came to the realization that I just couldn't be in it for the long haul. As a young professional woman who is always on the go and juggles an extremely busy schedule, I had a difficult choice to make — should I keep him or return him. So, before it ever got to the point of neglect, I decided to return Max so he could be placed with someone or a family that truly had the time for him that he deserves.

I got to the point where I felt guilty about being so busy and having to leave him.

One thing ehow.com tells you about "How to Know if You're Ready for a Pet," is to ask yourself, "Do you have the time?"

It says that you'll want to enjoy your pet, but if you have an already-crowded schedule, you may simply not have the time to spend getting to know the pet. It further reads, unless you have the time to devote to the care and raising of a pet, maybe you should delay your decision to get one."

So, on last Friday, I contemplated — even making a pros and cons list — and consulted everyone in my circle about it. Ultimately, it was my choice and I had to make the hard decision of whether to return dear, adorable Max. I spoke to Sally first and revealed my decision. She was very understanding.

"I don't mind if you fostered him for a while," she told me.

Sally even allowed me to spend one last weekend with him and enjoy our time together.

When Monday came, I went to work, still with Max on my mind. It was hard for me to depart, but I knew it was a wise choice to make. I went home for lunch to check on him as usual, feed him and walk him outside. In the afternoon, I went back home to pick him up and take him back to The Pet Place. The ride in the car was bittersweet. My eyes started to well as I watched Max through my mirror, looking out the window.

I didn't realize how emotional departing from your pet could be until I was inside of The Pet Place and the reality of him not coming home with me hit. As I sat, waiting for an attendant, tears silently streamed down my face as he jumped out of my lap to frolic with another dog passing by. It would be the last time I would see him, but I found joy in knowing that he'll hopefully be adopted long-term — this time. I was, to my knowledge, his third home and second home in a matter of two weeks.

But, Friday the 13th, brought some good news for Max. Sally reported to me that he was adopted by a widow who was a retired nurse and lived in Woodville. I sure hope it works out for him.

But through the experience, I learned several things about adopting a pet — make sure you are ready and prepared for the commitment, don't make an abrupt decision — think it through, don't beat yourself up for realizing when something wasn't for you at that particular time — applaud yourself for making a wise decision.

Perhaps the greatest lesson Max of the many he thought me during our 13-day stay together was respect — respect for all pet owners and rescue groups. I truly admire them because it takes a special group to be caretakers for this spectrum of God's creatures.

Max definitely made a mark in my heart.

To quote my sister, Kim, who fell in love with him too and visited him nearly everyday, "Oh, Max," she said, during a visit the day before I returned him. "I'm going to miss you.

"I never thought I'd like a dog as much as I loke you," she continued, cradling him in her arms. "You're sweet and loveable."

I absolutely agreed.

With that said, I want to say thanks a million, Max, for melting our hearts with your canine charm.

BEFORE YOU CHOOSE A PET

Do you have the money? You need to realize that pets can be expensive. There's pet food, toys and a place for it to live, not to mention that, should it become ill, there'll be veterinanrian bils that can run into the hundreds of dollars. Be sure you can handle a pet financially before you make the decision to get one.

Do you have time? You'll want to enjoy your pet. But if you have an already-crowded work schedule, you may simply not have the time to spend getting to know the pet. If you are thinking about getting a dog, for example, it will require housebreaking, or else you will suffer the consequences. And it will need to be trained to avoid behavioral problems that could be a danger to both you and your children. Unless you have the time to devote the care and raising of a pet, maybe you should delay your decision to get one.

Do you know what to get? It's not enough to say that you want to get a dog or cat. Each comes in a variety of breeds, and you need to determine which breed fits into your lifestyle and that of your family. For example, there are certain breeds that are traditionally difficult to be around. If there are young children in the family, you'll need to find a pet that won't turn nasty if subjected to the typical treatment young children provide. Do your homework before you bring your pet home.

Are you ready for a long-term commitment? Dogs and cats can live 20 years, or more. So, before you get one, understand that you are making a huge commitment. Pets are not like cars that you can test-drive, than walk away if you aren't happy. Be certain that you are ready to dedicate a portion of your life to a pet before you decide to get one.

And like Sally Socia with the Humane Society said, "It's a commitment, but shelter and rescues will work with you to pick a dog that's right with your lifestyle and family."

HUMANE SOCIETY ADOPTION GUIDELINES

Animals are adopted to persons 18 years of age or older as household pets. The animals shall have adequate food, water and shelter at all times, and veterinary care as required (including current inoculations, heart worm prevention, and flea/tick control). If adopted as an outside dog, which is not preferred, ,the animal shall have a well-fenced yard and shelter, and shall not be chained.

No adoptions are made in violation of lease or rental agreements.

Adopted animals shall not be traded, sold, given away, or used in research. They must be returned to the Humane Society if the adopter becomes unwilling or unable to care for them.

Adoptions are not made to recipients of low-income spay/neuter assistance, so that their financial resources may be devoted to the proper care of the animals they already maintain.

Adoptions are not made to applicants who have unspayed or neutered animals already in their care, or animal not current on vaccinations and heartworm prevention absent special circumstances approved by the Humane Society.

Adoptions are not made to any individual who has had an animal cruelty complaint or citation without further investigation.

Adoptions are not made to any individual who has previously lost or had killed an adopted animal with out further investigation.

There are not guarantees on the health or disposition of any animal adopted, and the Humane Society is not liable for any animal adopted, or for any damage to person or property that maybe caused by the animal.

Refunds may be made if the animal and adoption papers are returned within five days of the adoption, or by special arrangement with the Humane Society

Adoption of cats are not made to individuals who intend to declaw the animal without trying behavioral modification techniques before subjecting the animal to that mutilation. Persons who prefer declawed cats may be contacted as potential adopters for animals that are received by the Humane Society and are already declawed.

Adoption approval is discretionary with the Humane Society and requires that an animal and the potential family be compatible in terms of the ages and composition of the family, the breed, age and needs of the animal, and any other factor relevant to the long-term health and safety of the animal.

Click on banner to visit The Pet Warehouse

9 Reasons You Should Never Buy an Animal from a Pet Store
by Sarah Irani - care2.com

When my husband and I were about to move to our new place, I told him I’d like to get a cat, so we planned to adopt one. We didn’t get that far, however, because as soon as the landlady unlocked the front door to let us in to our new place, a skinny little black cat scurried in and made herself at home. She’s been with us ever since.

Speaking of black cats, there still prevails a superstitious bias against dark-colored animals and they are often passed over for adoption at animal shelters. Unless you have all-white furniture and the dark shedding fur would cause you major grief, consider bringing a black dog or cat home with you.

There are some other important and compassionate reasons to consider adopting a pet over buying from a store.

Puppy mills. Most pet stores get their puppies from factory-style breeding facilities called puppy mills. Puppy mills are high-volume breeding facilities where many dogs are kept in squalid, caged conditions until they’re ready to sell. They often have health and socialization problems.

Save a life, make a friend for life. It’s sad but true ““ space is limited in animal shelters and if that sweet little creature doesn’t get adopted within a certain amount of time, it will have to be euthanized. There are some no-kill shelters, but they are in the minority.

Save money. It costs much less to adopt from a shelter than to buy from a pet store. What you pay to the shelter generally includes vaccination, de-worming and spay/neuter services. You’ll also get some guidance and advice for the care of your new pet!

AKC papers don’t guarantee health. Purebred papers from the American Kennel Club guarantee only the purity the breed ““ nothing more. Even if a puppy is purebred, it might have hereditary health problems. If you are looking for an AKC-certified pet, look beyond the anonymity of the pet store or the internet and visit a reputable breeder in person to find out more about the puppy’s parentage and living conditions. These days there are rescue organizations for nearly every breed, so it’s not necessary to adopt a mutt if you want to rescue an animal.

You can find purebreds at a shelter. If you’ve got your heart set on a particular breed, give animal shelters a chance; purebreds show up there all the time.

Good karma. Many years ago, our family cat went missing and although my mom scoured the local shelters for him, he was never found. In the meantime, however, she came across a scrawny little ball of fluff that caught her eye and tugged at her heart. She brought him home, took care of him, and now he’s the biggest, fluffiest Maine Coon you’ll ever see. He and my mom are inseparable. She saved his life and he’ll never forget it.

Socialization. A pet store animal has probably never been in a house before, whereas a shelter animal most likely has. Most shelters screen for good behavior and temperament and will be honest with you about the animal’s personality and needs, whereas a pet store only wants to make a profit. Most shelter animals have been left behind because of a cross-country move, a new baby, or expense. These animals have likely been housebroken and know how to manage their way in the world of humans. They’ll certainly be happy to have a new home.

Don’t support animal over-population. There are already so many domestic animals in this world that need a home. Pet shops and puppy mills support over-breeding of these animals for profit. It’s estimated that 6 to 8 million pets are euthanized every year! Rescue a spayed or neutered pet instead and give it the loving home it deserves.

Shelters offer a huge selection of animals. Many shelters rescue more than just dogs or cats. Birds, horses, guinea pigs, hamsters, reptiles, farm animals and all kinds of other critters may be your ideal companion, too.

Ask a Vet: Should I Seek a Pharmaceutical Solution to My Pet's Anxiety Problem?
Los Angeles Times
Allow us to introduce a new feature here at Unleashed: Ask a Vet. We're excited to have Dr. Heather Oxford of L.A. veterinary hospital California Animal Rehabilitation (CARE) on board to answer your burning questions about your pet's health and well-being. Got a question for Dr. Oxford? Leave a comment on this post, and look for her answer in an upcoming installment of Ask a Vet.

Photo: Seamus the dog takes his stress out on a feather duster. Credit: CM / Your Scene
Unleashed: Under what circumstances, if any, would you prescribe medication to deal with a pet's anxiety? Do you recommend any herbal remedies?

Heather Oxford, DVM: Great question, because anxiety is the second most common reason pets are brought to veterinary behavior specialty practices today! Mild forms of anxiety do occur and are usually easy enough to correct if the cause of anxiety is identified early and the veterinarian and owner work together to help modify the behavior and the environment.

Behavioral modification, involving teaching the owner the proper way to leave and return without creating anxiety in the pet and teaching the pet to be calm and independent, is key. Managing the environment, such as taking the pet in the car, hiring a pet sitter, confining the pet during the day or even sending the dog to daycare, are good ways to help avoid the situation that makes the pet anxious in the first place. If the anxiety is due to an unavoidable noise phobia like car alarms, smoke detectors, fireworks or thunderstorms, I recommend distracting the pet with music, or games that will divert his/her attention.

For mild forms of anxiety I find that Dog Appeasing Pheromone (D.A.P. by CEVA) is pretty effective at reducing anxiety. This comes in both a diffuser and a collar. I have also had good success using the lavender collars, and Bach's Rescue Remedy either added to the pet's water or three to four drops placed directly on the tongue.

More severe anxiety usually requires all of the above, and then some. Separation anxiety is the most common type of anxiety and is a serious problem that can cause the pet to vocalize excessively creating a disturbance to neighbors and other people and pets in the home, destroy property or themselves (scratching, licking, chewing their paws) and even urinate and defecate in inappropriate locations. If the pet is doing any of these things, the pet first needs a thorough physical exam to make sure a medical condition is not the cause. It is best to start drug therapy as soon as the diagnosis is made in order to have the most effective treatment. Pets typically are on the drug for a minimum of six months. The drugs that are used for anxiety can cause several side effects, including vomiting, lethargy, diarrhea and even hyperexcitability in rare cases, and some cannot be used with certain other medications that the pet might already be on. It is important to remember that drugs are not "cure-alls" and will work effectively only if used in conjunction with behavioral modification and environmental management.

Oxford received her bachelor’s of science degree at Bowling Green State University, Ohio. She also received a master's of public health degree in epidemiology from Emory University and went on to work at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta. She then went to the University of Tennessee, College of Veterinary Medicine, where she received her doctor of veterinary medicine degree. She practices at California Animal Rehabilitation and is also certified in veterinary rehabilitation and acupuncture. She lives in Los Angeles with her husband, Wade, and German shepherd, Tess.

AmeriMark Direct is a leading direct marketer of women's apparel, shoes, name-brand cosmetics, fragrances, jewelry, watches, accessories, and health-related merchandise.

Money Saving Tips for Your Pets
Michael Finney - abclocal.com
SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- It's estimated Americans will spend $45 billion on their pets this year. But giving your pets the best doesn't mean you have to spend a lot.

Pet owners love to pamper their furry friends.

"She basically gets to choose her own toys so we go and I give her an array and whatever she kind of takes to, she gets. That's how she chose her bed, that's how she chooses her clothing," said dog owner Nicole Cramer.

All that pampering can be expensive. But you can save money by not overfeeding.

"If you can't easily see or feel your pet's ribs, it's probably time to cut down on the pet food," said Good Housekeeping's Janet Siroto.

If your pet is overweight, you can save $180 a year by giving your pet the lowest recommended amount on your pet food package. You can also take advantage of services at the local shelter. On average they charge one-third to a half of what a private vet does.

"One of the ways we recommend people save money long term is to not skip on annual exams, which a lot of people tend to do especially during tough economic times," said veterinarian Michael Sanchez.

If your pet needs medication urgently, get a week's worth from your vet and then take the prescription with you so you can order the rest online. Or see if your vet will match the on line price to keep your business.

Some vaccines may be unnecessary. If your pooch has no contact with other dogs, you may want to skip the "kennel cough" vaccine. That will save you about $20. Indoor-only cats may not need the feline leukemia vaccine, saving you about $25.

You can get good savings at warehouse clubs. For example, Good Housekeeping found at Costco a case of 24 22-ounce cans of Pedigree Chunky beef dog food for $24.99, versus $33.36 at a local supermarket.

Supplement your pet's diet with your leftovers. Just be careful and avoid spices and dairy. Be also careful with fat. Some human foods are toxic to pets, so check http://www.goodhousekeeping.com/family/safety/recalls

Finally you can save money by buying your animal's prescriptions online.

Bowwows of Holly
Sun-Times Media

Pet pictures for holiday can be a snap
Pet owners love to take photographs of their pets, and often the photograph ends up as the family's Christmas card.

"Pet owners can capture great, festive photos of their pet," said David Sutton, an Evanston-based photographer specializing in pet photography.

Here are Sutton's tips on how to get the best holiday shot of Max or Buddy:

• Set the scene: Look for a clean background. Before shooting, scan the corners of the frame. Anything in the background will be in the photo and could draw attention away from the subject.

• Light 'em up: Don't use the on-camera flash. That makes light reflect into the pet's eyes, making them look like big saucers. Look for natural light near a window, or take the photograph outside. (The best outdoor lighting is found early in the day or in late afternoon.) If you have to use your flash, shoot from one side of your pet so he's not looking directly at you. That way you avoid retinal reflection.

• Lower, lower: For an interesting photo perspective, get down on the floor at your pet's level. The closer you get, the better you'll be able to capture your pet's distinct -- and adorable-- personality.

• Attention, please: Use unexpected noises, tops, treats or familiar and positive phrases to get Fido looking into the camera. But frame your shot, get your camera focused, and then grab your pet's attention. And don't try to shoot for more than 15 minutes without taking a break. After the break, try again.

• More, more: It's unrealistic to think you'll capture perfection in just one shot. Take lots of pictures. With a digital photo, extra frames cost time, not money. Keep only the strongest images.

Bonus tip: Shoot in black-and white for a mood that will seem timeless.

Click on banner to visit this site

Click here for "Dating Tips, Relationship Advice and Intimacy"

Click here for "Headlines You Should Know!"

Pet Travel Tips
By Chuck Zemek
When traveling with your pet on that weekend adventure, sometimes we will not remember their basic needs. Our pets often times are just as important as having a child with you. They can be noisey, have to stop several times and will get hungry. Like children, they need to stretch their legs, play and do their other business while we take them on our adventure. The adventure becomes more pleasant when they are not getting sick, making all kinds of noise that could take our focus off the road. That could be disastrous! Some quick tips to keep in mind.

Quick tip 1) Take some type of restraint. Pets' love to see what is going on. Surely, they will not use a seat belt, so take a leash or harness. This will also simplify when we take those much needed stops. Just unhook from the vehicle and walk.

Quick tip 2) Take along their favorite food. While traveling, we tend to stop at the local restaurant and grab a quick bite. Often times, this will not be the best food for you, and especially, not your pet. The best thing to do is have a sealed bag of their food so that their diet does not change. Animals should really not eat human food, it will upset their normal functions.

Quick tip 3) Bring a bag! You have seen it, while stretching their legs, along with their pet, the pet will have to do his "business". Often times the owner will just "let him do what he has to do" and just walk away. Disgusting. Be courteous and clean up after your pet.

Quick tip 4) Take a toy. Your pet loves to play and needs to get that energy out. Again, like a child, they will get restless after traveling too long. While stopping for food or rest, play. This in turn will make your travel experience more enjoyable and your pet will love the play time.

These are some of the quick tips when getting ready to take that weekend adventure with your pet. There are many others that can also be found at http://bringfido.com that will help make your weekend adventure one you will never forget.

We all have our favorite pet travel stories. The more time that your pet travels with you, the more it will become relaxed in how it travels. Our pet, Brewser, has been traveling since he was a puppy and has become well versed in his experiences, We have mapped our trips with the help of http://www.maps.com to make the most of our trips.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chuck_Zemek

Is There Lead In Pet Toys?
The Boston Channel

Team 5 Investigates Uncovers No Federal Safety Standards Protecting Pets
To get on store shelves, children's toys have to pass strict standards for safety.

But toys in the pet aisle don't.

Team 5 Investigates took 20 pet toys to the lab RMD Inc. in Watertown. While only one dog toy had lead levels higher than what's allowed in children's toys, lead detectors found everything from slight traces to lead levels much higher.

"Right now, it's looking to be 1,000 ppm (parts per million) or a little bit over perhaps," said Paul Bennett, a scientist at RMD, as he examined a "Spinmeister" dog toy.

The final reading: 1,360 ppm.

That's pretty high compared to the federal limit for children's toys, which is 300 ppm.

Wornick: "So you're not bringing this home to your family?

Bennett: "Probably not."

Like with humans, excessive amounts of ingested lead can cause a variety of problems for dogs and cats.

"Lead toxicity typically causes either gastrointestinal signs like vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite," said Dr. Lisa Moses, a veterinarian at Angell Animal Medical Center in Boston. "Or in more serious cases, actual seizures or other neurological problems."

But Team 5 Investigates discovered, there are no federal safety guidelines for pet toys. No federal agency monitors them for lead content or choking hazards.

Angell's medical files contain x-rays showing how dogs swallowed everything from a ball to rubber ducks.

"I think it makes a lot of sense for there to be similar regulations for animal toys that there are for kids' toys," Moses said.

Both Petco and Petsmart -- two of the largest national retailers for pet supplies -- told Team 5 Investigates in statements that they hire independent companies to check for toxic chemicals and other safety concerns before products are stocked on store shelves.

Team 5 Invesigates also contacted Cardinal Pet Company, the distributor of the Spinmeister.

In a statement, the company said its tests on the Spinmeister also found lead levels higher than what's allowed for children's toys, and stopped selling it, but can't control the sale of any leftover inventory still available at some stores.

Why is Quaker Parakeet Biting His Owner?
by Dr. Lisa Radosta - Palm Beach Post
Question: I have a “bipolar” Quaker parakeet and want him to stop biting. He’ll start off sweet as pie, then, in a second flat, try to bite me. Are there any medications to level off his behavior? — Berdi

Answer: Quakers are commonly seen for territorial aggression, but that is not the only type of aggression they display.

While mood-altering medications are used in birds, they are generally used for severe disorders or at least less frequently than in dogs and cats. This is primarily because there is not a great deal of research on the use of pharmacologic agents in birds, birds are generally more sensitive than dogs and cats to medications and also because birds have such a fast metabolism, they usually have to be dosed multiple times a day to reach effective levels.

The real question here is not whether there is a pill which can solve your Quaker’s problem, but why your bird bites you in the first place.

The answer lies in the fact that birds are among the most misunderstood pets. Most birds kept as pets are not domesticated animals, but rather wild animals kept in captivity. This is not a small distinction.

Animals who are domesticated are bred for generations to display characteristics that allow them to live in harmony with people. They have been bred to be able to live in environments we provide for them.

Most pet birds live very under-enriched lives and this is at the root of many bird behavior problems. How enriched is your pet’s environment? The second thing to consider is whether or not your bird is healthy. Is he eating a proper diet? When is the last time that he went to see a veterinarian? Next, consider your relationship with him. Do you have a structured relationship with him where he knows how to get your attention?

The first thing to do is to bring him to your veterinarian’s office and make sure that he is healthy. Then, scour the Internet for information on captive foraging.

There are some good videos out there.

Then, enrich his environment with toys so that he has something to do. He needs A LOT of exercise. Finally, go to www.clickertraining.com and look for information on training birds. Once your bird has a more “natural” life and he knows how to interact with you, he will bite you less and everyone will be happy!

Dr. Radosta

Lisa Radosta DVM, Diplomate ACVB
Florida Veterinary Behavior Service
PO Box 210636
Royal Palm Beach, FL 33421-0636
561-795-9398

Click here to visit The EZ Online Shopping Network of Stores

Dogs, Cats, Parrots and Aquariums!

2009-11-20T22:06:00.000-08:00

You Found a Stray, Now What?
news-record.com

Readers have come to The Pet Shop wondering what to do with a stray animal they've found.
As a volunteer/employee with the SPCA of the Triad, I would like to offer some suggestions on what you can do if you find a lost/abandoned animal. I've helped people find homes for animals, so this advice is based on what I've done at the SPCA. And this only concerns dogs and cats. For animals such as birds, horses or other wild animals, you should contact your county's animal control for advice.

First, you need to decide what you personally want to see happen to this animal.

If you want to keep it, there are some things I would recommend. Nowadays, when an animal is spayed/neutered, the vet will place a microchip in the pet. Most rescue groups do this to all of their animals. County humane societies and most vets will scan the animal for free, and get the microchip number for you. If the animal has a microchip, you can contact the company, and they will contact the owner. If there is no microchip, ask around the area and see if anyone recognizes the animal.

If you want to get rid of the animal as soon as possible, there are some options. Each county in the Triad has an animal shelter, which will not turn the animal away. At a shelter, there is a chance it will be euthanized. Rescue groups don’t euthanize animals, but many are overcrowded and may not be able to help.

If you are unable to keep the animal permanently, but are willing to keep it for a period of time, there are a number of options. Most rescue groups are willing to work with you to find the animal a new home. The SPCA and NCPAL, for example, have foster programs, which means you would keep the animal at your house, but it would be adopted through their program. You would get the group's help to find it a good home, but you would keep the animal until then. There are a number of rescue groups in the area (a few are listed on The Pet Shop's main page and more can be found online). Each group will be able to help you according to their policies. If you want to find the animal a home yourself, you can post fliers and other ads letting people know you have the animal. I would highly recommend you ask for an adoption fee. Anyone who is willing to pay for an animal usually has good intentions. People looking for free animals may not be the best home.

Lastly, if the animal is injured, please call your county animal control. They can take the animal to a vet and get it the proper medical help. They would work with you to find the animal a home if you want.

Again, these tips are just that, tips. You can do what you see fit, but often it just takes a phone call to help the animal.

Pet Groomer's Mobile Service Thrives
by Georgann Yara - Special for The Republic

Many people would love the convenience of a spa on wheels. But Sandra Guerguy's Tempe-based business only serves the four-legged variety of clients.
Le Paw Spa is a mobile pet-grooming service that pampers nearly 200 dogs and cats in the East Valley.

A basic service starts at $55, which includes a bath, trim and style, cleaning and deodorizing of ears, anal gland expulsion and nail trim. Costs can increase depending on the style desired, the breed, the last time the pet was groomed and the temperament of the animal.

She averages five or six appointments a day, but it's not unusual for her to serve as many as 10 clients in a day.

Her 2010 schedule is almost set - 90 percent of her appointments for next year are booked.

"I could work 24/7 if I wanted to. I'm blessed that way. It keeps me more than busy," she said of her 4-year-old business. "I start at 7 in the morning, but I've done 12- and 15-hour days. I've gotten faster over the years."

Guerguy operates out of a spacious self-contained custom van that features separate grooming and bath areas.

Guerguy pulls up to clients' homes, where the service can be done in the driveway or on the street. She also makes calls to office buildings and has even groomed a pet outside of a salon, while its owner got her hair styled inside.

Guerguy keeps her mobile office spotless and gets it detailed every three months.

In addition to grooming and trimming services, Guerguy also offers specialty services such as teeth cleaning and de-matting. After a bath, clients finish off with a warm air-fluff dry. The venue allows Guerguy to provide a more individualized service than the typical pet salon.

"The thing with salons, they have to put the pets in cages and the wait can be long," she said. "But the pros of being mobile is that they are not put in cages, there's no wait and you're by yourself. There are no distractions."

The spa's name pays homage to Guerguy's French Canadian roots. She spent her early childhood in Canada and France before moving to the United States at age 8.

Utilizing a master's degree in French language and literature from Syracuse University, Guerguy taught French at the high-school and college levels. She also received her certification in Spanish.

But she had dreamed of being a veterinarian and after teaching for 15 years, yearned for a change.

"I always loved animals. So I thought, what could I do that makes money and feeds my love of animals, where I don't have to go back to school and start at ground zero?" Guerguy said.

She earned her certification in pet grooming and was mentored by a friend, who was also a pet groomer. When her friend retired, Guerguy inherited some of her clients and did a direct-mail campaign.

Soon, word-of-mouth boosted Guerguy's client list.

Guerguy's willingness to groom cats, which can transmit more dangerous bacteria through bites and scratches, is another bonus because some groomers refuse to handle them, she said.

"I have a gentle approach," she said. "But sometimes I end up taking a bath with them."

With an easy-going demeanor and genuine affection for animals, Guerguy usually does not have a problem with pets.

Although at first, many react like many humans do when they walk into a dentist's office.

"Sometimes clients quake when they see me," she said. "But I give them treats and redeem myself."

Sometimes owners decide to tranquilize their pets to make the process easier.

Rarely does Guerguy need to muzzle a dog, but it has happened. Once she needed several stitches to patch up a bite.

But most of her stories reflect the loving nature of her clients.

For example, she talked about the time she gave a huge orange tabby a "lion cut," a style where a cat's body is closely shaved, but the head, feet and tail are left furry. Suddenly, the tabby lifted up one of his hind legs, as if to help her out.

Afterward, he proudly strutted in front of his owners and their children, who kept telling him how "handsome" he looked.

"It was the cutest thing," Guerguy said. "To me, it's not about getting paid for something I really like doing. I feel a sense of accomplishment."

Click on banner to visit The Pet Warehouse

Dog Survives 65ft Plunge into Sea
BBC.com.co.uk

A major rescue operation was launched to save the dog
A dog survived unscathed after plunging 65ft off cliffs into the sea during a walk with his new owners.

Andy and Joanna Finlay had just picked up the German Shepherd and stopped at Portlethen in Aberdeenshire on their way home to Kirriemuir in Angus.

But five-year-old Twinnie backed over the cliffs, and landed in the sea, narrowly missing rocks.

Coastguards and a police dog handler were called in and rescued him from the shoreline.

The couple had picked the dog up from Huntly, and gone for a walk at Portlethen on Sunday evening.

Mr Finlay, 39, told the BBC Scotland news website: "We were getting back in the car and the dog took off. We were searching for around half an hour.

He was absolutely terrified but otherwise fine. He seems very happy now

"Then we found him and were trying to get him, but he backed off and fell.

"Luckily he seemed to go straight into the water rather than hitting rocks."

He explained: "Coastguards and the police were called, they saw the glint of his eyes with a torch and found him lying half in and half out of the water.

"He was absolutely terrified but otherwise fine. He seems very happy now.

"The rescuers did a sterling job."

Aberdeen Coastguard said that Stonehaven and Portlethen teams were called out, along with a Grampian Police dog handler.

Adding Another Cat to the Mix
By Natalia Macrynikola, Studio One Networks

Some people feel lonely around the holidays, but for shelter cats, that feeling can persist long after you’ve put away the decorations.
“A shelter environment is very stressful for cats, no matter how nice we make it,” says Jenn Smith, cat co-chair at Danbury Animal Welfare Society (DAWS), a Connecticut nonprofit dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of homeless cats. “It is especially hard on those who have lived in a home and lost the security of both their owners and their physical home,” adds Smith.

The winter holidays lead to a surge of gifted animals that are later taken to shelters by unprepared owners. You can help counter this trend by bringing home a new feline friend for you and your current kitty. Our five-step process will help you to introduce one or more new cats into your household without any hair-raising glitches.

Step 1: Consider the personality of your current cat

Your cat’s personality should play a big role in deciding what kind of additional feline to adopt. “If you have a cat with a dominant personality, you would not want to bring home another dominant, or ‘alpha,’ cat,” says Smith. A quieter cat without leadership ambitions would help alleviate feline politics in that situation. If your cat has lived with other felines before, try to remember how it interacts with others.

Step 2: Talk to shelter staff

A quick Internet search will help you locate local shelters. As you visit the cats at the shelters, “don’t be afraid to ask the staff or volunteers specific questions about each cat,” offers Smith. Tell the staff that you have another pet. They will help you determine which cats will best suit your needs. “Doing this upfront can prevent a lot of problems later down the line,” says Smith.

Step 3: Check up on your prospective new cat’s health

Before adopting, get the specifics on your new cat’s health requirements. “All our cats and dogs are spayed or neutered and receive age-appropriate shots and vaccines prior to adoption,” says DAWS President Christine Benezra. The adoption fee usually covers those costs, but new cats entering a home with a resident cat should also first visit a veterinarian to be tested for feline AIDS and leukemia.

Step 4: Redecorate with “multi-cat” in mind

Cats are territorial, so offer your new cat its own room. This will prevent your resident pet from feeling intruded upon and will help the new cat acclimate to the home and to the new owner. Choose a small room with few hiding spots and place a litter box in one corner. Water and food bowls should go in another corner. Don’t forget to include a few toys and a scratching post. Once the new cat arrives, visit with it often so it learns to trust you before meeting the resident cat.

Step 5: Introduce the cats slowly

A gradual introduction, full of pleasant experiences involving treats, attention and play, is vital to securing a happy, long-term relationship between your new cats. Here’s how to do it smoothly:

Day 1: When you bring the new cat home, sneak it into its new room right away. Let it explore its surroundings for a few hours. In the meantime, play with your resident cat, which will smell the new cat on you.

Day 2-3: Continue to play with the cats separately but exchange the cats’ bedding so they get further acquainted with each other’s smell before meeting.

Day 4-7: Rotate the cats between the closed-off room and the rest of the house on a daily basis. This way, they’ll rub their own scent all over. Feed the cats and play with them in each area, twice daily (without bringing them in contact with each other yet). This will help to alleviate feline anxiety as they begin to anticipate the routine.

Week 2: If the cats seem relaxed with each other’s smell, bring out the new cat in a carrier to meet the resident feline. Do this for a few short sessions each day until the cats become relaxed in each other’s presence.
Although the process could take weeks or even months, Smith believes that it is possible for most cats to learn to get along with others, as long as you’re prepared to put in the time, energy and money that come along with being a responsible pet owner.

Natalia Macrynikola is an assistant editor at Studio One Networks, which publishes The Daily Cat. In her free time, she often volunteers at Astoria and Brooklyn animal shelters through the organization New York Cares.

AmeriMark Direct is a leading direct marketer of women's apparel, shoes, name-brand cosmetics, fragrances, jewelry, watches, accessories, and health-related merchandise.

Santa Paws is Coming; Maybe to Your Home
By: Doug Speirs - Winnipeg Free Press

The sun is sparkling on my barbecue. My lawn is trimmed with thousands of brown leaves. My golf clubs have been hung in the closet with care.

Yes, it's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!
Which means the eating season is almost here and it's time to reveal Doug's Super Secret Holiday Weight-Loss Tips, beginning with the following two-step workout:

Step 1 -- Dress up like Santa Claus and spend four hours sweating like a Butterball turkey in a red velvet suit while having your picture taken with hundreds of jittery dogs and cats;

Step 2 -- While you're feeling jolly, shed a few extra pounds when that nervous Great Dane on your lap mistakes your hand for a Milk-Bone because, unlike small children, dogs realize Santa has a pleasing salty taste.

OK, it's not exactly the South Beach Diet or Jenny Craig, but it works for me.

Ho ho ho! Seriously. For the third consecutive year, I'm going to shed pounds the hard way -- by playing Santa for the annual Pet Pics with Santa Paws fundraiser in support of the Winnipeg Humane Society.

The way this diet works is you, the festive pet owner, pop your dog or cat or weasel or goldfish in the car and drive to the humane society's shelter at 45 Hurst Way this coming Sunday between noon and 4 p.m. and get in a really long lineup to have a heartwarming photo taken with Santa, as portrayed by an overweight newspaper columnist inside an extremely hot, fragrant, red velvet suit.

Here's the deal: You get one photo for $12, three for $25 or a special package with a variety of photo sizes for $29. Also on Sunday, they'll have Hanukkah Pet Pics from 11 a.m. until noon. (If you want an even slimmer Santa, a second Pet Pics event is being held on Grey Cup Sunday, Nov. 29, from noon to 4 p.m.)

I've been writing about my jolly old workout for the last few years, but, surprisingly, Oprah has NOT invited me on her show to promote the Santa Paws Miracle Diet.

Given the fact I'm not getting rich, I decided to call the humane society and ask their public relations director, Aileen White, why someone as svelte as myself volunteers to be coated in dog drool and cat hair at this festive time.

Me: "Remind me why I'm doing this again."

Aileen: "Because all the proceeds go to help animals in our care, which is a really big deal because this year we've sheltered over 9,000 animals so far."

Me: "So the money's going to a great cause. How much do you hope to raise this year?"

Aileen: "I think a few thousand dollars would be super-cool!"

Me: "SUPER-COOL???"

Aileen: "I keep forgetting you're going to quote me so I shouldn't say things like 'super-cool' because I'll sound like a ditz."

Me: "OK, I won't use that. The problem is I've been Santa Paws for three (bad word) years and I'm running out of jokes. Any ideas?"

Aileen: "Yes, I think it would be super-cool to hold a contest."

Me: "Right... what's the big prize?"

Aileen: "The big prize is Santa visits the winner's home and they get professional photos of themselves, Santa Paws and their pets taken in their very own home by Frank Adam of Adam York Photography!"

Me: "And when you say 'Santa,' you mean ME?"

Aileen: "Ho ho ho!"

Me: "Swell! So what do readers have to do to win a visit from Santa Paws?"

Aileen: "We want them to send us their favourite Holiday Pet Story. It can be funny. It can be goofy. It can be cute. It can be touching. It should also be true and not too long, maybe 200 words or so."

Me: "Great, but most of MY true holiday pet stories tend to revolve around poop."

Aileen: "???"

Me: "For example, one year our main dog's gastrointestinal system basically exploded."

Aileen: "That's a holiday story?"

Me: "It happened under the Christmas tree!"

Aileen: "Ewwwwwww!"

Me: "OK, so we want readers to email us their very own, true holiday pet stories."

Aileen: "Exactly."

Me: "And then we pick the winners?"

Aileen: Right. Second prize will be a $50 gift certificate from our Tip to Tail Boutique and third prize is a $25 certificate."

Me: "Can I slap their stories in a column, get a snack and climb back on my couch?"

Aileen: "Why not?"

Me: "Cool, Aileen."

Aileen: "SUPER-COOL, Santa!"

doug.speirs@freepress.mb.ca

How Fast Can Your Parrot REALLY Be Trained?
Posted By: Chet - BirdTricks.com

How fast can you really train your bird?
In many of my training videos I continually show examples of how to train birds to stop biting, or step up in very short periods of time. It is not uncommon for me to be able to get a bird to stop doing bad behavior within 2-3 days.

Many of my clients send me comments about how implementing one of my training concepts or strategies fixed their birds problem in less then 15 minutes.

On stage at our Total Parrot Transformation seminar I trained a parakeet to touch the end of a stick in front of hundreds of people in about 30 seconds.

But can every bird be trained in such a short period of time?

Is your bird’s behavior so bad it might take a year to train him, and you just need to be patient?

It’s possible, but I think that answer is typically a cop out for people who don’t fully understand what it takes to tame parrots.

I don’t mean that to insult you if you currently believe in your heart of hearts, that the only way to fix your bird’s behavior is with more patience, I’m sure you’re a good person and love your parrot.

It’s just that I’ve been there before, with an abused African Grey Parrot who was not responding as well to my training techniques as I would have liked. I was quickly able to teach him several things, but there was so much emotional FEAR inside this bird that I was not able to help him overcome those fears and his progress hit a brick wall before I could consider him tame.

For four months I continued to work my normal techniques on this African Grey with little to no results, which forced me to make a decision…

I either needed to ‘give up’ and take the patience and time approach. Or I needed to drastically rethink the way I was doing thing.

I decided to drastically rethink the way I was doing things.

The determining factor in this decision was actually made while simply watching my African Grey try to get to his water dish.

The way my African Grey’s cage was set up, there was a perch that lay across the main perch in his cage that he would have to step OVER if he wanted to get to his water bowl. For any normal bird this wouldn’t have been a problem… but with my African Grey, the perch was an obstacle to be feared, and he refused to touch it.

Over the course of the first four months I had him in the cage, he never built up the courage to step over this perch.

Instead he’d come up close to it, and then leap over it… literally jumping into his water dish.

This is when I had my big breakthrough and realized, “if a perch that had always been in the cage, and had never moved, and had never fallen down while my bird was standing on it, couldn’t be patient enough to earn my birds trust, then how in the hell was I going to earn his trust with nothing but patience?”

So I decided that patience was mostly BS, and that I needed to rethink my training approach to scared birds completely.

This is how I came to evolve the 3 Phases Of Fear training model that I taught to at our live Total Parrot Transformation seminar, that was eventually responsible for training my African Grey to stop biting and step up on cue within 30 days of me finally figuring out the formula.

The 3 Phases Of Fear training model is a holistic approach towards training your bird that is based off one key principles. They are:

Key Principle #1: Your birds progress is being blocked by EMOTIONAL reasons

Just like almost all of the problems we humans have are based off of unhealthy emotional reasons, like our Daddies not spending enough time with us, being abused, etc., parrots typically are held up from becoming more tame from emotional reasons too.

As the name of my Training Model suggests (The 3 Phases of Fear), there are three MAIN emotional roadblocks that parrots run into that prevent them from being tame. Each of these Mental roadblocks seem to be caused by specific, and very different emotional reason.

This means that in order to help your parrot develop, and overcome a certain type of fear he has, you need to use a training technique specifically designed for overcoming that particular fear; and STOP using those techniques once the fear has been overcome.

But it’s a little more complicated then that…

Not all Emotions are weighted equally!

Have you ever seen Maslow’s hierarchy of needs pyramid?

In his pyramid, Maslow suggested that people can’t work on filling the needs at the top of the pyramid before filling the needs at the bottom of the pyramid, because some needs build a foundation for even having the ability to want other needs.

In birds there are three stages of emotional needs that you will need to work on to ever have a tame bird. I call these these stages:

1) The Getting Closer Phase

2) The Accepting Contact Phase

3) The Initiating Contact Phase

In each of these three phases a parrot has a particular type of fear that is triggering him to bite or be afraid of you, and it takes a particular type of technique, or several techniques to help your bird get over that type of fear.

And like Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, you’d better not try to work on the 2nd and 3rd phases of fear before first addressing the emotional needs in the first phase.

A perfect example of this is my free video online that teaches a technique that I call the Power Pause technique. In this free video I show how I got two different birds to stop attacking when people came near them. (The Getting Closer Phase Of Fear)

It’s a specific technique for people who’s birds have an emotional problem with their owners getting to close to them, and in a few short minutes helps most birds fix this problem.

Some of my clients think this technique is MAGIC and want to use it to solve everything wrong with their bird… but it doesn’t work that way. It’s a technique that’s awesome at addressing one of the emotional roadblocks parrots still in the first phase of fear have.

If any of my clients who’ve had success using the Power Pause technique during the first phase of fear, were to try to use it to train their parrot to do a behavior in the second or third phase of fear, it wouldn’t work.

This is because the emotional roadblocks that your parrot has to overcome to be comfortable with you coming close to him, are different from those he has to overcome to enjoy being pet, and different again for the emotions he has to overcome to be comfortable stepping up onto your hand.

When you are clear about where your parrot’s emotional weaknesses are, what techniques can help you overcome them and what ones can’t, that’s when you can achieve incredibly fast taming and training results.

If your bird is not getting noticeably better behaved 9 out of every 10 days you train him, then you are most likely not using techniques that are addressing his emotional needs the way they need to be.

If you’d like my most advanced teachings on how to match up the most appropriate training techniques help your parrot overcome his emotional roadblocks, I would encourage you to watch my 3 Phases of Fear & Mistrust DVD presentation. You can get a copy here:

Total Parrot Transformation Seminar DVD Series

We are running low on these sets, so there might be a couple week delay while we wait for a new shipment to come in, so please be patient, and feel free to email us if you can’t wait that long for your copy to show up.

Key Take Away To Ponder:

If your parrot does not have a lot of emotional roadblocks to overcome, his training should be incredibly fast. With these types of parrots, you can drastically increase the quality of your relationship with them by simply doing daily trick training exercises. The parrot owners who talk about how they fix their bird’s behavior in minutes or a few days are typically owning this kind of bird with a low level of emotional baggage.

If simple daily interaction and trick training sessions are not improving the relationship you have with your bird, your bird likely has more Emotional Baggage, and you should consider investing in more training education to fully understand how to work with the issues your bird has developed. Your bird is probably not ready for trick training yet, and needs to have some emotional roadblock removal first.

The more emotional baggage your parrot has, the MORE training techniques you will need to use to tame him, and the more you will need to fully understand his behavior. But this does NOT mean it has to take a long time. You may not be able to fully tame your bird in a few days, but you should be able to drastically transform your bird in 30 days.

I’m not saying anyone can completely eliminate their birds problems in 30 days, but if your doing things right, you should be able to make enough progress that you’re incredibly encouraged to continue working with your bird.

Try to remember that you are probably on track if 9 out of 10 times that you interact with your parrot you are NOT getting bitten, and he is making noticeable progress. If this does NOT describe how the relationship with your parrot is going, and you do not make daily progress with him, consider investing in more advanced training like my Seminar DVD series or from another professional parrot trainer that can help point out why your not getting the results you’re after with your bird.

Here’s hoping this helps some of you get a little better understanding about what you should be able to expect out of your training.

Click on banner to visit this site

Click here for "Dating Tips, Relationship Advice and Intimacy"

Click here for "Headlines You Should Know!"

The Large Home Aquarium
By Chris Persson - AquariumFreak.blogspot.com

Thinking about a large home aquarium? Even if you aren’t, there are plenty of good reasons for getting one.
Perhaps you’d like to house a really big fish or two, or several aggressive fish in the same tank, or maybe you’d just like to put LOTS of little fish in one tank. Or maybe you’re an aquarist who is now ready for the challenge of setting up and maintaining a bigger aquarium.

Large aquaria have much to offer those of us "in the hobby." In addition to satisfying the space requirements of big fish, large tanks tend to offer more stable water conditions than do similarly stocked and filtered smaller tanks. And, if properly set-up and maintained, a large aquarium can be an extremely impressive addition to your home.

In the past 8 years, I have purchased, set-up, and maintained a number of large aquariums, including a 9-foot-long, 340 gallon glass aquarium. I’ve seen the good, the bad, and the ugly of dealing with big tanks. I’ve moved so many heavy tanks that I’ve exhausted the goodwill of my family and friends and helped put my chiropractor’s kids through college. I’ve been to the brink of litigation with freight companies. I’ve filled, spilled, and drained water in Noachian proportions. And I’ve loved every minute of it.

Still ready for the challenge of setting up and maintaining a large home aquarium? Here then are ten steps for success:

1. Commitment
As my Grandpa always said, "If you’re going to do something, do it right … or don’t do it at all!" And while he may have neither coined that phrase nor been sober when he said it, it’s the motto by which any hobbyist looking to set up a large aquarium should live by. Before you even begin, make sure you have the backing of your spouse, significant other, and/or family; after all, these are the people who will have to share their home with a huge water-filled contraption. You also need to ensure that you’ve got the necessary financial resources to purchase a quality product. And finally, be certain that you are both prepared and determined to put substantial time and effort into this project.

2. Location
Positioning a large aquarium in your home requires a bit more forethought than with standard-sized tanks. As always, a level spot, free from direct sunlight and heavy foot traffic is required. You'll need to plan for easy access for feeding and maintenance. And, of course, you’ll want to locate the tank in a place that offers comfortable viewing for you and your guests—but remember that you need not sit as close to large aquaria as you do with smaller ones.

When selecting a site for a large home aquarium, keep in mind your sense of proportion as large tanks can easily "overwhelm" a room. Consider the possibility of an "in-the-wall" tank; this can provide a very attractive finished look to your aquarium, and also allows you to service the tank from behind the scenes.

3. Weight
Let’s state the obvious: Big tanks mean big weight. Sure, you’ve got more water than with smaller tanks, but don’t neglect the added weight from thicker glass and sturdier stands. For example, an empty 125 gallon glass tank weighs about 200 lbs., while a 300 gallon glass tank (empty) runs 1,000 lbs. or so. Water tips the scale at about 8.3 lbs. per gallon and adds up mighty quickly, as do the heavier rocks and driftwood pieces you’re likely to use in a larger tank. By my best estimate, my 340 gallon weighs somewhere in the neighborhood of 2 tons!

Big tanks are probably safest in the basement on a concrete slab. The first floor of your home can be workable as well, assuming you sufficiently shore up the supporting floor. Spare yourself unnecessary worry and labor by saving the upper floors of your home for small tanks.

4. Stand
Ready-made aquarium stands are available for pretty much any size tank up to the standard six-foot 180 gallon. Tanks larger than that almost always require that you either custom-order from a manufacturer, or build your own stand. Those of you who—like myself—are inept at matters of carpentry should consider hiring a professional to ensure the job is done right. Determine how high you want the stand to be—high enough for comfortable viewing, but not so high that the aquarium dominates the room. And finally, take the time to figure out how much room you’ll need under the tank for any equipment and accessories you plan to put there, and provide enough space for easy access.

5. H2O
We know we’re going to put water in the tank—and take some out during maintenance—so we’ve got to plan ahead. A nearby source of cold and hot water (and a drain) is a must. Although modern water change systems like the PYTHON make this less of a concern than in the past, this doesn’t mean we shouldn’t consider other options. With proper planning, water lines can be run adjacent to or directly into the tank, and means for draining water can be incorporated as well. Remember, even a 25% water change on a big tank is a lot of water; imagine the convenience of turning a couple of valves to drain—and also to fill—the tank rapidly.

6. Material
Glass or Acrylic? The debate rages, and each material offers specific advantages and disadvantages. In general, acrylic is lighter than glass and more readily fashioned into unique or extra-tall shapes, but it is more expensive and somewhat more easily scratched than glass. However, some acrylic scratches can be polished out, while scratched glass is all but impossible to fix. Acrylic is supposedly "clearer" than glass, and modern acrylic tank manufacturers claim that today’s acrylics do not discolor, as did their predecessors. Personally, I will never again use glass for anything over 180 gallons, if only in consideration of weight.

7. Source
Most any retail pet shop can readily obtain glass or acrylic tanks up to 180 gallons; some stores even carry 7’ and 8’ tanks up to as much as 265g or so. Get beyond that, and you’ll be faced with one of three choices:

a. Build your own. This alternative is only available to those who are not ham-fisted like myself. Done properly, this can be the least expensive route, as you provide the labor (search the web or check out the "Manual of Tankbusters" for how to do). Just note that glass sheets are heavy and awkward, meaning you won’t be able to build a big tank without help. In addition, use care as to the type of silicone and/or sealant employed; many are not approved for aquarium use. Proceed with caution!

b. Special order via your retailer Your retailer probably has a source of his own that makes extra large tanks. This is the most convenient AND most expensive way to get a tank. You will pay thousands of dollars for tanks over 300 gallons. On the plus side, the retailer will (or should) arrange for delivery, and will also help with any problems that might arise.

c. Mail Order/Direct Purchase I have found this provides the most reasonable compromise. If you choose acrylic, there are a number of manufacturers that advertise each month in FAMA. Glass aquarium manufacturers that sell direct to the public are less common but do exist. You will definitely save money on the cost of the tank by ordering direct, but should be prepared for hidden charges such as packing, shipping crates, and freight—get these prices quoted ahead of time.
As a rough guide to cost, retailers quoted me prices exceeding $4,000 for purchase and delivery of a glass 9’ 340 gallon. Buying directly from the manufacturer cut my cost to less than half of this.

8. Transport
If you buy directly from the manufacturer they will either send the aquarium to a nearby airport or to your local freight depot. You can then arrange your own transportation and pick it up, or have the freight company deliver to your address. Note that this does not mean they will bring the tank into—or even near—your house. They’ll bring it only to the end of your driveway; you’ll still have to unload the tank and move it in. If you decide to have the freight line deliver you should be aware that these companies are notorious for not showing when promised; I prefer to go to their depot (with my own movers) and get the tank myself.

9. Moving
Once it’s at your house, you’ll need help getting the aquarium inside. Tanks up to 55 gallons or so can more or less be handled by one person—although I confess to once moving a 125 gallon solo, using a SUV, a trio of sawhorses, and absolutely no common sense—but larger tanks require assistance. Getting family members or friends to help out may be an option, but once you’re moving a tank heavier than a couple of hundred pounds you’re going to need friends that are either very understanding or very strong. Larger glass tanks may require professional help—I wound up hiring eight movers to get my 340 gallon into my house.

Plan ahead! Moving a large tank may require twisting and turning to get around corners and deal with the various angles created by doorways and stairwells. Stories abound of hobbyists who wound up having to remove windows or doors in the process. Inter-American Pet Supply even told me of a customer who took delivery of an 8’ x 3’ x 3’ aquarium only to then find he could not get it into his house! So, measure twice, cut once…

10. Filtration
A wide array of options exists for filtering the large tank. Although you could strap on a bunch of outside power filters or canisters and get the job done, I’ve found though that a better option is to order the tank "reef-ready." What’s reef ready? The tank comes pre-drilled with several holes and an overflow box which are plumbed to a second smaller "sump" tank, which contains a trickle filter or other filtration process. Water pumps are used to circulate the tank water between your main tank and the sump via PVC pipe or flexible tubing.

This may sound complicated, but plumbing an aquarium is less complex than installing a faucet or toilet. Just be sure to allow a few days for all glue and sealant to cure before filling with water and adding fish.

This plumbed system works great; it permits easy access to the filter media, and allows you to put heaters, filter intakes and such in the sump and out of sight—as well as out of reach of large fish. The water pumps used in such a system are very powerful and provide excellent turnover of tank volume. And since there are no filters hanging off the back of the tank, you can push the aquarium flat against a wall. Sumps also have room for you to add other fancy stuff, like a fluidized bed filter or UV sterilizer, should you so desire.

Success

Once the tank is set-up, filled, decorated and cycled, you’re ready to add fish, sit back and enjoy … and think about the even BIGGER aquarium you’re going to tackle next time!

Click here to visit The EZ Online Shopping Network of Stores

Emergency Pet Care PLUS Be a Pet 'Foster Parent'

2009-11-18T00:13:00.001-08:00

You and Your Pet
by M. McMahon - CaliforniaPsychics.com

What your animal friend says about you
Labradoodle or tabby cat? Clydesdale or parakeet? Whatever pet you pick says something about you. Connections with pets often mirror our relationships with people.

Here is a run-down of some of our favorite friends and what they say about their owners!

Horses
You are in for the long haul and enjoy lasting deep bonding from a place far within you that is impossible to ignore. Horses are an integral part of your life and you wouldn't have it any other way. Just don't love the animal more than a human partner! Horse lovers tend to do best with other people who participate in their passion.

Dogs
You love to give and receive emotion. You don't mind being counted on in sunshine or rain and consider the animal an extension of yourself. Even more so, you thrive when needed. You identify with your animal. This is why you have chosen a breed that reflects you and maybe even looks like you? Why not? You love yourself and you love your dog. It's inevitable!

Cats
You enjoy a cuddle now and then but value independence as well. You don't need big loud expressions of emotion but hold dear the quieter moments of intimacy. You see others as complex mysteries to unravel but never solve and that's fine with you. You value your time in your home and want it to be warm and inviting.

Birds
You want things to be unique and eccentric. You value finding your own way and being choosy about who you love. You appreciate the less overt personalities that take time to discover and nurture. You like inside jokes and the quirky side of life.

Tropical fish
You value aestheticism and collecting things. Visual expression is important to you. You find comfort in water and movement. You are looking to share experiences, sightsee and travel. You like keeping a piece of faraway land in your home.

Pets are a gift in our homes and whatever the animal you decide to co-habitate with, there is much to learn and gain from our creature friends. To get love is to give love. Pets embody that principle in a pure and wonderful form.

Naming a Cat: A Serious Undertaking
By Jo Singer - PetSide.com

One of the most frequently asked questions appearing on many interactive pet- related websites are those requesting help naming a new kitten or cat. Many of the responders offer a long laundry list of "cute" names, depending on the cat's description or photograph provided by the asker.
However, I think that naming a kitten or cat should be considered a very serious undertaking and one that never should be done in haste, or taken lightly. After all, as the cat servant becomes more familiar with their new kitty and the name chosen proves to be totally inappropriate, think of the confusion that the poor feline may experience when names are changed rapidly. The naming of a kitten or cat carries a high degree of responsibility but many folks lack the patience to discover a suitable and appropriate name for their new kitty. This can cause some pretty disastrous results.

Rather than picking a name off a website, or choosing a name that someone else is suggesting, it is far better to wait and spend time getting to know the newcomer. Each kitten and cat has unique behavioral antics that endear us to them. A kitten may have a particularly unique appearance that may suggest a more suitable and catchy name as well.

For example: My husband and I were given an adorable seal point Siamese as a wedding gift, years ago. Even though he was 4 months old, he was the cutest tiny ball of fluff. We fell in love with him the minute we set eyes on him. He came to us with a fancy long registered name, "Brown Toast", prefixed by the name of the cattery. His name was longer than he was, in fact! As we gently let him out of the shipping carrier in which he arrived after his long airplane voyage, we instantly felt that the name that was given him was totally wrong.

After spending time with him and observing his little purrsonality quirks, with his endearing habit of licking us with his incredibly long tongue whenever he was petted, coupled with his diminutive size being the runt of the litter, his name came to us in a flash. As he was an oriental-type cat, and I am an avid pun-maker, the name "Mousie-Tongue", a play on Chairman Mao-Zedong nailed it. And not so amazingly he responded to the name immediately. The Vulcan "Mind Meld" had obviously been affective.

I always advise people be patient and wait for their kitten or cat to "reveal" his or her name. Keeping our ears and eyes open for the obvious hints being offered, letting our innate intuition guide us, will always lead us to that purrfect handle.
What method do you use to name your cats?

Unable to Own a Pet? Be a Foster Parent
BY PAMELA DUQUE - South Florida News Service

South Florida humane societies are encouraging animal lovers who are unable to own pets to take some home temporarily.
The Forte family had a dilemma. They loved animals but couldn't keep a pet.

``We travel often, and it's not fair for the pet to be left by itself or to be moving around,'' said Helen Forte, 45.

The Fortes found the solution by becoming ``foster parents'' for the Humane Society of Broward County.

Foster care is one of the volunteer programs offered by the Broward shelter, the Humane Society of Greater Miami and the Tri-County Humane Society in Boca Raton to find more help in the community for homeless animals. The nonprofit organizations rely on private donations and fundraising and follow a no-kill policy.

``We look for donors and sponsors and people to participate, so that we can be able to provide and guarantee the life of these animals,'' said Summer Miller, special events manager at the Humane Society of Greater Miami.

All three shelters, which house 250 to 300 pets each, said the need for pet foster care increases each year with more animals coming in.

``It is tough right now,'' said Pamela D'Addio, volunteer coordinator at the Tri-County Humane Society. ``Sixty percent of our dogs are turned in by their owners. We hear anything from `I'm moving' to `my kids are allergic' to `I lost my house.' ''

Dexter, a black Labrador mix, had been living at the Humane Society of Greater Miami for four of his five years until Larry Rizzo became the dog's foster parent.

``He ended up being the sweetest dog,'' said Rizzo, who started volunteering for the shelter about a year ago. ``It was tough to get him adopted because most people want the younger dogs, the puppies.''

On weekends, Rizzo, 43, started taking Dexter to his home in Miami Beach, where he lives with Brooklyn, a 3-year-old Beagle he rescued from a puppy mill.

``We play at the beach or just sit on the couch and watch TV,'' Rizzo said.

Simple interaction makes a difference in the life of an animal, shelter officials said.

``People don't realize the importance of socializing a pet,'' said Sandy Guerra, director of operations at the Humane Society of Greater Miami. ``The more interaction a pet has with different people -- men, women, children, young, old -- the more social they are.''

That interaction can also lead to adoption.

After seven months of foster care, Dexter found a home when one of Rizzo's friends saw him walking the dog on the beach.

Rizzo visits the shelter once or twice a month. He takes dogs to the playground area outside the shelter, but he also likes to take them home with him.

It's at night when the animals need love the most, he said.

``After 7 p.m., the lights go out and the animals are alone.''

Volunteers can also just take an animal for a walk or a weekend vacation from the shelter. Many times, foster parents care for animals that are recuperating from an injury or operation.

Lacey Freeman, foster care coordinator at the Humane Society of Broward County, said she interviews interested volunteers to determine if they are ready for foster care.

``I think some people think they will take just a dog. Others do realize they get babies,'' she said.

They may wind up caring for young puppies or kittens that lost their mothers and need somebody to feed them. Usually they need fostering for two weeks to a month, depending on the animal's age and health. ``That can't just be done at the shelter,'' said Susan Richards, administrative assistant at the Tri County Humane Society. ``What the volunteers give is love and shelter.''

Forte and her daughters, Antonia, 15, and Michaela, 10, usually care for two to four kittens for a month. Forte sees it as a way of showing her daughters that having a pet is a big responsibility.

``It's been a great thing because they've also learned a lot,'' said Forte, who divides the chores between the two girls, who pick names for the kittens that match their personalities and appearance.

``Some of them are playful, more feisty, or affectionate. They are all different, like the people you meet,'' said Antonia, a sophomore at Cypress Bay High School.

The hardest part is bringing them back to the shelter. ``I know that they are going to a family that's going to take care of them and love them as much as we do,'' she said. ``At least I hope so.''

Click on banner to visit The Pet Warehouse

How Much Do We Spend on a Sick Pet?
By STEPHEN KREIDER YODER, ISAAC S. YODER and LEVI YODER - wsj.com
LEVI: A week ago, after making my lunch and packing my backpack, I went downstairs to Tex, our mutt. He was on his bed; I went to pet him, but he wouldn't get up.

It got even worse. Instead of running into the yard, chasing squirrels, he barely moved when I opened the door. I had to entice him with the leash. Then he hobbled outside, whimpering with every step he took down our deck stairs before we went on our daily before-school walk.

A week before, the vet had said that Tex had arthritis in his back legs, and she put him on meds. But this didn't look like just arthritis. I immediately began to worry. What could be wrong? How sick was he? And: What if Tex was sick enough that we couldn't help him because of the cost?

We've had Tex for nine years. He was a gift to Isaac for his ninth birthday, and he has been an energetic part of our family ever since. Theoretically, he was Isaac's dog, but he was really a family dog. After Isaac went to college three months ago, I took over the Tex responsibilities.

We've become closer friends. We've played, run and eaten together (not the same food). I slept in his room once so I could feel more in touch with him. He was like a younger brother I never had. But he suddenly seems older and completely changed. Although I've tried not to think about it, I do worry how long he will last.

Last weekend, it got worse. Every couple of yards on our walk, he yelped. I tried to calm him down, but it was clear that the medicine wasn't helping.

So we took him to the vet a second time. As we were driving there, with Tex whining in the back, my dad and I had a conversation about death and how to deal with people close to you going out of your life.

The vet said she thought a pinched nerve or a squashed disk in his neck was causing the pain. An X-ray didn't show problems. She said if we wanted to investigate further, we should see a neurologist and get an MRI scan and possibly surgery.

"Let's try this medicine for a few days," the doctor told us in the examination room, "but if he doesn't get better, then you will have to make some decisions."

Those words hit my dad and me hard. We couldn't put it out of our minds. We couldn't ignore the fact that if we didn't do something now, Tex could die.

So is it worth it? Should we spend tons of money on Tex as we would any family member? Or should we let him go and say he had a good life?

STEVE: At what price does an ailing pet cease to be family? $1,000? $10,000?

As if to press the question, while Levi and I sat in the lobby awaiting Tex's diagnosis, two customers arrived to pick up their pets' ashes.

"I didn't choose Tex," Isaac told me, wide-eyed and shivering with joy in March 2000 when he came back from the Oakland animal shelter. "He chose me!"

Karen had taken Isaac in to find his soulmate, and there he was: Halfway down the bank of cages, a light-brown mixed-breed looking very much like a dingo rushed to the bars and told Isaac, in a language a 9-year-old understands, that he belonged in our family.

Tex was immediately one of the boys -- friendly, smart, naughty. Even his name was family: Isaac chose it because he'd decided Texas was "the best place in the world" after I'd taken him there for my Texan grandma's funeral.

A decade later, we must calculate whether Tex remains in the family. I just went down to Tex's bed; as I stroked his ears, he looked up with frightened, pleading eyes that said, in a language I understand: "What's happening to me? Why don't you do something?"

I passed the fridge on the way back. A photo under a magnet is of a year-old Tex, nose in the camera lens, smiling (always smiling). The snapshot was from back when a grade-school Isaac would phone me at work, hope in his voice: "Dad, you coming home soon? Want to meet me at the dog park on your way home?"

Above my desk is another snapshot: Tex, sitting next to a long-haired Isaac on a Nevada sand dune, both of them cocky adolescents. I hear Tex whimpering softly downstairs as I write this.

"Oh, for pity's sakes," I can hear my farmer forebears chiding me for sappily thinking of spending serious money on an old dog. Animals came and went on the farm; there were more important things to spend money on.

Tex has already been a cost center: the massive dog-food bags; the $25-a-day kennel costs during vacations; the $200 in medicine after he ate rat poison; the lawn furniture he destroyed as a pup; the mop-ups after his disagreements with skunks.

But we've spent over $500 in just the past week on vets and tests and drugs. How much more? (The vet estimates $1,500 for the MRI, $5,000 and up for surgery.)

Levi has been caring for Tex like I want to be treated when I am a deteriorating, confused old man. He takes his homework to Tex's bed to be by his side. He spends time after dinner rubbing Tex's stomach and talking, softly, to calm him. Tex deserves it: He has been worth so much to us.

We'll have to decide within a week, in cold dollar terms, just how much he still is. How do parents ever do this?

Going to the Dogs: Before You Take Your Four-Legged Friend Skiing, Make Sure He's Up to the Task
By BILL HAGGERTY/The Grand Junction Daily Sentinel

Before we get started this cross country skiing season, let’s talk about dogs.

Should you take them cross country skiing with you?

Or not?
One of the best places to ski nordically with a healthy and prepared canine companion is at the Mesa/Delta County Line Cross Country Ski Trails, expertly groomed by the Grand Mesa Nordic Council (GMNC).

The Nordic Council provides designated dog trails in this area. Loops from one kilometer (.62 miles) to about four kilometers (2.48 miles) are beautifully laid out by the good folks who groom these trails four times a week, weather permitting.

One of the worst places to ski with your pet is at Skyline Cross Country Ski Area, a few miles closer to Grand Junction. That’s because other backcountry users have major “issues” with your pet... holes in the track where a skier wants to plant and kick, dogs chasing you, dogs snarling at each other, brown klister ...

There are other life-threatening issues as well: your dog can get hypothermia, frostbite, have a heart attack or stroke, just like you. They can get injured, hungry, dehydrated and tired.

Sarah Shaw knows a lot about pets on Grand Mesa in the middle of winter. That’s because she and husband, Kenton, graciously donate their lives to the Grand Mesa Nordic Council, and they have participated in a half-dozen dog rescues over the past few ski seasons.

“People are slowly becoming more educated,” she said, “but they need to be reminded that animals can suffer as much as we can.

“If it’s a sunny day and the snow is hard as a rock and there’s no one around, I guess it’s OK, but for the most part, I don’t encourage anyone to take their dogs skiing with them. Some dogs just aren’t right for the winter climate we have here — puppies, old dogs, dogs with short hair — they’re better left at home.”

According to Drs. Foster and Smith, of the famous pet catalog company named after them, minor cases of frostbite in pets “usually involve only ear tips, whereas more extensive freezing causes the loss of the tail and appendages (toes and legs). Death may result if the limbs are involved. Dying tissue attracts bacteria, and severe, life-threatening infections can result.”

Hypothermia “is a condition in which the body temperature becomes too low for normal functioning. It is more common in animals that are short-haired, small, wet or have no shelter during periods of cold temperatures,” according to the good doctors’ Web site, www.drsfostersmith.com.

That could happen every day on Grand Mesa from now to next spring.

Want more on doggie issues like hypothermia, frostbite, and how to treat them? Check out drsfostersmith.com AND ask your veterinarian.

If you ski or snowshoe with a four-legged sidekick, hazards exist that you may not see.

Remember, you’re gliding on top of the snow with your skis or snowshoes, while your dog is post-holing through the deep stuff. They may encounter stumps, ruts, vegetation, rocks, fallen trees, stream beds, water bodies, and many other natural and man-made objects that could cut a paw, sprain a leg or freeze a toe.

No matter what, as Sarah suggests, provide a hardy breakfast for your four-legged friend, at least an hour before exercise. (Longer-bodied dogs should eat two hours before exercise. Like horses, they may bloat, which is very dangerous). Carry plenty of snacks and water for your dog as well as yourself.

Before you take your dog skiing, check the temperature and wind chill factor. It’s updated daily on the Nordic council Web site at http://gmnc.org.

Give your dog plenty of time to acclimate to altitude and a chance to rest. He’s working a lot harder than you are.

When your adventure is complete, be sure to have blankets or old sleeping bags in your car to warm your dog.

Check pads, stomach and groin area for scrapes or chafing from snow build-up. Never let your dog ride in an open pickup, wet or dry.

There are many dog friendly cross country/snowshoe areas in western Colorado. Check with local land use agencies before you go.

One final word: If your pet does not come to you when it’s called, it should not be off lead. But, if you’ve got a pet that needs to burn energy and get out as much as you do, do us a favor: pick up his doo-doo, and take Fido to a place where he’ll be appreciated.

AmeriMark Direct is a leading direct marketer of women's apparel, shoes, name-brand cosmetics, fragrances, jewelry, watches, accessories, and health-related merchandise.

Pet Grooming Is A Responsibility
PauseforPaws.co.uk
Many pets purchased today are purebred. The elaborate care required for maintaining health and value should be known and the responsible owner will follow these guidelines. A large amount of households, however, still follow tradition and have chosen a mixed-breed house pet. These individuals may feel that the responsibilities for pet ownership are limited to veterinarian care, food, toys and accessories, but the family who is gifted with a “free” puppy or kitten must also consider the necessity of pet grooming when compiling the expenses and responsibilities for the newest family member.

The family, who chooses a short-haired pet, may feel that this will alleviate the obligation for daily grooming; this is however, a mistaken thought process. The shorter haired pet will still require regular brushing to stimulate a healthy coat and reduce loose pet hair. The indoor pet will invariably leave hair throughout their environment, so brushing is essential for a cleaner home. In addition, indoor pets are subjected to the same environmental influences as their human family. Dry, hot, furnace heat and artificial cooling systems dehydrate the skin causing it to flake and slough off. Although perhaps more apparent amongst darker-toned breeds, this same process is occurring in the family pet. Dandruff-like flaking will appear on the dog or cat’s coat when stimulated either by hand or brush, indicating dry skin.

Supplements or vitamins may need to be included into the pet’s diet for complete relief, but the inclusion of regular baths into the pet grooming routine will provide the greatest improvement. Some individuals may choose to do this themselves, however the local pet groomer will also perform this for a reasonable fee.

Proper pet grooming does not end with the animal’s skin and coat, as other needs will require regular attention as well. The home that now includes a domestic cat will need its members to be diligent in training the animal to use a scratching post. Failing this, the decision to de-claw the feline used to be the only option; however, today’s pet grooming advances have made it possible to live with the offending talons. A pet groomer can be enlisted to clip the tips of the front claws or soft pads can be applied to the claw, thus keeping the nails from damaging inappropriate surfaces. If started at a young age, the adult cat will readily submit to either of these procedures, however the responsible pet owner should speak to their veterinarian about which options would be the best for the animal and the expense that will be included in the pet’s regular grooming routine.

The family, who has chosen to bring a dog into the home, must also realize their responsibilities in regards to nail care. Regardless of size, a dog’s nails can be damaging if not kept to a proper length. This damage does not just include the family home and property, but can also extend to the animal itself. Nails that are not clipped may cause the pet to walk awkwardly or lead to other foot problems; therefore this is a maintenance necessity. Some dogs are submissive and do not require any assistance; however, this is not often the case. The veterinarian may be needed to perform this grooming necessity. This could become quite expensive; however, many pet professionals will eagerly train the pet owner to do this job themselves. The pet owner should be aware, though that this is a procedure that is best begun as soon as possible and at regular intervals, as the normally docile family dog may react very adversely to the nail clipping regimen.

Regardless of the initial cost in procuring a family pet, the family needs to be aware and understand the responsibilities that they have now chosen to undertake. The animal’s health must be maintained and this will require the procurement of a good medical professional. In addition, though, the family must understand the obligations for regular pet grooming to assure a long and happy life for this family member.

Gary Bogue: How Did the Cat Find His Way Home from 3 Miles Away?
By Gary Bogue - Contra Costa Times

wintering white-crown

sparrowing in the sage

almost brushes my boot

— Anastasia Hobbet, Walnut Creek
Dear Gary:

My daughter recently moved about 3 miles away, and she took her cat with her. He is a 5-year-old male outdoor cat (trust me, she tried to keep him an indoor cat, but it just didn't work!).

Anyway, his pattern is to be out at night, come home in the morning, sleep most of the day inside, go outside for a couple of hours, back again for a late night snack, and then out again for the night.

He is trying to adjust to living with two other indoor cats at the new place. The female cat has no problem, but the other male isn't too thrilled he's there. We understand it will take awhile for all of them to adjust, and hopefully, it will all work out.

However — how in the heck did that little imp find his way back home to my house?

He showed up at my doorstep the other morning and I couldn't believe my eyes. When I called my daughter, she was just as surprised and said he had been home all day the day before, and she had let him out that night.

The cat had only been at the new place for about two weeks, and I can't figure out how he would even begin to find his way back here when he'd never been in that area before. It's mind boggling.

Of course, our worry is that he will do it again, and he has to cross a couple of very busy streets to get here. Is there anything we can do to try and discourage him from doing that?

If he does it again and she just keeps bringing him back to her place, will he finally get it and understand that is his new home?

Kathi J., cyberspace

Dear Kathi:

Cats and dogs have reportedly made some amazing journeys over the years.

I admit I was somewhat skeptical "... until it happened to me.

I had a cat named John when I was a youngster, still living with my parents in Pleasant Hill. When I was 22, I got married and we moved about 7-8 miles away to Walnut Creek. We left John the cat with my parents.

After a week or so, my mom called to say that John had disappeared. I spent days prowling the neighborhood and trying to find John. No luck.

A couple of weeks later I opened the back door at my Walnut Creek house to take out the garbage — and there was John, skinny, matted, dirty, sitting on my back steps meowing for me to let him in. Boy, did we hug.

John stayed and lived with us for the next 10 years, finally dying at the fine old age of 21.

How are cats and dogs able to find their ways back to previous homes, often many miles away? No one really knows. Oh, there are probably as many theories as there are cats. Do they use earth's magnetic fields? Follow the stars? Don't you need to know where you're going before you use any navigational skills?

I've yet to see an answer I can live with. Maybe it's better not to know. Knowing would take the fun out of it.

I'm also concerned that your daughter's cat might get in trouble crossing those busy streets if he tries to come back to your house again. I wouldn't be surprised if he tried it because it sounds like he doesn't like living with those other cats. If your daughter can keep him inside the house for a couple of weeks, maybe in his own room with a litter box and food, gradually letting him meet and try to get to know the other cats, he might figure that's his real home and decide to stick around.

If he takes another trip back to your house (and makes it!), you might consider letting him stay there with you, because that sounds like where he wants to be. Or maybe you should make that decision now so he doesn't take any more dangerous trips.

Click on banner to visit this site

Click here for "Dating Tips, Relationship Advice and Intimacy"

Click here for "Headlines You Should Know!"

What to Do If Your Pet Needs Emergency Care
rgj.com
If your pet is ever injured, your quick action can make a lifesaving difference. Of course, first aid is only the first step; the goal is to get your pet to a veterinarian as quickly as possible. Putting the phone number of your veterinarian and the nearest veterinary emergency center in speed dial on your phone can save crucial minutes.

Obviously, we can only give very general guidelines here. In an emergency, you will need to use good judgment and seek your veterinarian's advice.

When a pet is injured, the first order of business is to move your pet away from any immediate danger while ensuring your own safety. Then, call your veterinarian or emergency clinic. Letting the clinic know that you are on the way and what to expect enables them to be ready for your pet.

Protecting yourself
Even the gentlest pet can bite or scratch their favorite person when the animal is injured or frightened. Muzzling your dog is the safest way to ensure that your dog cannot bite and will be able to get needed help quickly. You can create a muzzle with a strip of cloth, necktie, or nylon stocking. Wrap it around the nose and under the chin and then tie it behind the ears. Do not muzzle a dog that is vomiting. Once the dog has been moved, you can loosen or remove the muzzle.

Cats and small pets are best handled by wrapping them in a towel or placing a towel over their head temporarily. Be sure that your pet is able to breathe.

Transporting an injured animalIf an animal has sustained trauma, such as a car accident, you can help prevent further injury by minimizing movement of an animal's body. Gently lay your pet on a flat surface for support. A board or similar flat surface or a rug or blanket held taught by two people can function as a makeshift stretcher.

A carrier may be workable for a smaller animal. Taking the top off to put the pet inside and then replacing the top can minimize movement for the injured animal.

Fractures or dislocations
If your pet is holding a limb in an unnatural way, this may indicate a fracture. During transport to the clinic, try to move or handle the animal as little as possible. Don't try to apply a splint since it will most often only inflict greater pain.

Bleeding woundsIf a wound is bleeding profusely, apply firm pressure to the area with a clean cotton cloth to slow the bleeding. Do not use a tourniquet. If it bleeds through the fabric, apply more cloth over the pad rather than removing it. Meanwhile, arrange transport to your veterinarian. If you are alone, you can tie the compress in place.

It should be snug, but not cut off circulation. Waste no time getting your pet to the veterinarian. A wound does not need to be large to become infected, so it is best to seek care even if the wound stops bleeding quickly.

An animal that is bleeding from their nose, mouth, or rectum may be bleeding internally. Pale gums, weakness and collapse are other symptoms of internal bleeding. Keep the animal warm and rush to a veterinarian.

Shock: Shock can accompany injuries. An animal in shock will be weak, have pale gums and rapid breathing. Keep the animal warm and get to a vet clinic right away.

Poisoning: Products that are harmful for people to consume are also harmful for pets, but sometimes pets can also be sensitive to other substances.

Symptoms of poisoning may include weakness, vomiting, convulsions, difficulty breathing, or loss of consciousness. Telephone your veterinarian immediately or, if you know what your pet has consumed, you can call the Animal Poison Control Center hotline (888-426-4435) that is available around the clock, 365 days a year (there is a fee for the consultation). Treatment depends on the substance, so keep the product label at hand.

Collect any material your pet may have vomited or chewed in a plastic sealable bag, this may help your veterinarian determine what was consumed. If poisoning is detected soon enough, it might be possible for your veterinarian to eliminate the poison before serious harm occurs.

If your pet's skin or eyes are exposed to a toxic product, check the label for the instructions for human exposure and follow those instructions. Call your veterinarian immediately as further treatment may be needed.

Seizures
Move the pet away from furniture or anything that could harm them during the seizure. You can use a blanket for padding, but do not restrain the pet during the seizure. Time the seizure; they usually do not exceed three minutes. Afterwards, keep the animal calm and call your veterinarian immediately.

Choking
If your pet is having difficulty breathing, pawing at the mouth, blue lips or tongue, you need to act quickly. Be aware that your pet may be frightened and more likely to bite. If your pet can still breathe, get them to a veterinarian as quickly as possible.

If your pet cannot breathe, look into their mouth to see if the object is visible in the throat and can be removed with your fingers, tweezers, or pliers. Take care not to push it farther down the throat. If it is lodged too deeply or if the pet collapses, place your hands on both sides of the animal's rib cage and apply firm, quick pressure or place the animal on its side and using the palm of your hand, strike the side of the rib cage firmly three or four times. If you can force air up from the lungs, you may be able to expel the object. Keep trying until the object is dislodged or you arrive at the veterinarian's office.

While first aid can be a lifesaver, it is only the first step. Your emergency care should always be followed by immediate veterinary care.

Bonney Brown is the Nevada Humane Society's executive director.

Get The Safest Kitten Collars for Your Pet
by ja_schmidt - Bukisa.com

Kittens are one of the most popular pets of the royalty back in the days of kings and queens. So if you have a cat and would want them to look well pampered and taken care of, then kitten collars are just the thing for them.
Kittens are one of the most popular pets of the royalty back in the days of kings and queens. So if you have a cat and would want them to look well pampered and taken care of, then kitten collars are just the thing for them. Since most cats have fairly small necks, they come in a size that fits most cats or have an adjustable lock.

Kitten collars can come in many designs and styles. The most sought after are the ones with crystals on the collar. Some collars even have pendants and bells. Others have designs embroidered on the collar like the name of the cat. It can also have a pendant that holds valuable information about the cat like who the owner is and where the cat lives.

Kitten collars are supposed to be glamorous and safe. Kitten collars are only glamorous and good to look at but be sure the safety of the cat is not overlooked. Good collars should have safety features to ensure it does not endanger the life of your pet. Since cats are curious and active animals it might be possible that they sneak into crammed spaces and snag their collars onto something. The cat might strangle itself if this happens.

Makers of kitten collars made improvements in their design by placing safety break points or elastic bands in the collar. This way your cat can easily break free from whatever it is that it got stuck in.

Kitten collars should also have provisions for a leash connection. Of course, like other pets, cats also need exercise. This way they can also be taken for a walk in a leash. Pet stores also sell those that have special leash features that attach to whole body harnesses so they can easily be controlled without harming the animal.

Since some cats can freely go around outside, some kitten collars are equipped with reflectorized bands on the collar. This way any light that hits the collar will make your cat visible at night. Other pet owners even go all out by putting pendants with LED lights that automatically lights up in the dark.

Another innovation in kitten collars is the one made with anti-parasitic properties. These are the ones that can keep your cat tick and flea free for months. It will keep your cat healthy and energetic without the use of harmful pesticides and chemicals. These are guaranteed to be safe for the cats themselves.

When looking for kitten collars make sure that they serve their purpose but with the safety of your pet in mind.

Click here to visit The EZ Online Shopping Network of Stores

The Smartest and Not-So-Smartest Dog Breeds

2009-11-16T00:41:00.001-08:00

Cat Fight: City Ought to Stay Out of Vet-Pet Owner Affairs
DailyNews.com

POOR kitties! Cruel vets and ignorant and intolerant owners are conspiring to have their toe-tips snipped off - and have even gotten a state law to protect their rights to do so!

Good thing that there are moral government bodies like that Los Angeles City Council taking a stand on such an important issue like cat declawing.
Equating the procedure to human torture (though, generally, anesthesia is not part of the waterboarding experience), the council on Friday took a preliminary vote to ban declawing cats within the city. There's a rush to do so as the Legislature has adopted a law that would ban cities from banning declawing starting in January.

At first glance it seems like a reasonable move. Why cause Fluffy medically unnecessary pain and leave it defenseless just because the owner is tired of being slashed or is disgusted with having his furniture or children shredded? Frankly, it doesn't sound like a humane thing to do.

But neither does castration, a mutilating procedure that the same council has actually enforced on all the male dogs and cats of the city. Ask any human man, and he will surely offer up his fingertips before undergoing that particularly emasculating procedure.

The people behind the declawing ban are for the most part a decent bunch, and they mean only the best for animals - but they are a special interest group nonetheless. Decent or no, what they are doing is no different from what the religious fundamentalists are trying to do: force the rest of us to live by their beliefs.

Declawing your cat is not much different than neutering or spaying dogs and cats. Indeed, we have laws demanding that you spay or neuter your pets, or pay a yearly penalty for not doing so.

No matter that it's painful to the pets or that they suffer. It is inconvenient and expensive to the city to have the streets overrun by abandoned and feral cats and dogs. In addition, it is expensive - and unpleasant - to dispose of the many unwanted puppies and kittens.

In that same way, it is expensive, unpleasant and inconvenient for individual cat owners to have their furniture destroyed, faces and hands and arms shredded and our children bloodied by pets that really can't help what they are doing.

Taking away the declawing option will leave cat owners with a tougher decision - whether to have the animal euthanized, drop it off at the pound, abandon it somewhere or continue to live with the animal.

We think the cat would prefer being declawed.

Cutting the claws and first bones from Tiger's paws is far from ideal, and no loving pet owner would consider it a light decision. But we think it should remain an option in a time when the recession has overloaded shelters with unwanted pets. How many of the kitties stuck in a shelter cage might still be in their homes, purring on the laps of their loved ones, if their owners could have solved their problems with a simple procedure at the vet's office? For many cats, declawing is the last-ditch effort at domestic peace before a one-way trip to the pound.

If the council has its way, loving animal owners would have to become outlaws to have it.

Great job. In Los Angeles, thousands of unwanted animals die every year. This won't help.

Opinion: Friendly Dog Makes Road Hunting Even More Fun
By: Luke Hagen, The Daily Republic
If I had one piece of advice for Barry Betts, I’d tell him to make sure to keep an extra bottle of Windex and an extra roll of paper towels in his hunting rig.

Ranger — his fun-loving, brilliant hunting dog — sure leaves a wide mass of nose prints on the windshield.

Betts, a Chamberlain resident, invited me for a road hunting trip last week that I gladly accepted. In his phone message to me at the office, Betts proclaimed, “Luke, I have the best road-hunting dog in the world. I’d love to take you out for a hunt this fall.”

Rather intrigued, I returned the call and we planned the trip.

Ranger — 4½ years old — introduced himself to me the moment I walked into Betts’ store, Downtown Antiques, in Chamberlain.

A friendly brown and black dog, Ranger is a part-lab, part-Brittany mix. Betts actually wasn’t sure of Ragner’s species until a few years ago, when he sent a DNA sample in to be tested. Now, he understands where some of Ranger’s pointing comes from.

And Ranger’s pointing isn’t exactly like any average dog.

Once we arrived to our destination for our road hunt, which Betts describes as a great South Dakota tradition, Ranger immediately forced his way to the center console in the truck and started his search.

His nose pressed up against the windshield repeatedly, and then he’d swirl around, slap me in the face with his tail and head to the backseat to stick his head out the window for a different viewing angle.

“You might get whapped in the face a few times,” Betts said.

I didn’t mind. Eventually, I just set my hand on Ranger’s back and prepared myself for his tail, blocking it before it got me.

When Ranger stayed in the front, and when he’d see a bird up the road, the Brittany in him showed. His shoulders would get really high, his head would stay low and he’d stretch half of his body on top of Betts’ dash.

“Whatdya got, buddy?” said Betts, 68, and a current biologist for his own company, Biological Services Inc. based out of Chamberlain.

Before starting his own company in 1981, Betts worked for the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks Department from 1968-1971. Then, he moved to Utah, Montana and Washington, D.C., and worked for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Today, Betts’ company keys in on Indian reservation land, studying and preserving pheasants, deer, buffalo herds and endangered species, but when he’s not working, Betts loves to take people out with Ranger.

Just after Ranger spotted a pheasant running across the gravel, we did, too. Quickly, Betts drove over to the ditch, put the car in park and we hopped out.

Ranger knew the drill. He sprinted in the ditch and started flushing pheasants. Barry dropped one rooster at quite a distance, and I missed a couple shots. Down the road I saw a large pile of brush and a dead tree, so while Ranger was retrieving Betts’ bird, I walked over and flushed another pile of birds, only to miss the first time I pulled the trigger. Then, as it flew over the truck, both Barry and I shot at about the same time, crumpling the bird.

Two birds in the first 20 minutes — not too bad.

As we continued our journey, Betts told me stories of Ranger growing up and how people who travel to Chamberlain for pheasant hunting from across the U.S.

“Ranger has his own little following,” Betts said. “There’s even an old guy named Ronald McDonald who comes up every year and wants to hunt with Ranger.”

There wasn’t too much time that passed where we didn’t see a group of pheasants. We saw one real big mass of birds jumping from a cornfield to a patch of CRP grass and we pulled over and pursued it. I hopped out of the truck with Ranger, and we walked down toward Betts as we got some more birds out of the ditch. Soon, we had four of our six roosters, and it didn’t even take the entire golden hour — the last hour before sunset — as Betts likes to call it to finish our limit.

I shot both of the last two birds, as I did a lot of missing to start the hunt. I did redeem myself, though.

I had one pheasant walk within five feet of me after Ranger and Betts walked toward me, and I had to wait for it to fly out far enough so I didn’t turn it into ground chicken.

To close out the hunt, Barry and Ranger saw a rooster flying directly at the pickup, so I jumped out of the truck and made a 50-yard shot to impress my hunting partner.

“I’m a waterfowler,” I told Betts. “That’s the kind of shot I take when I’m shooting ducks — directly over the top.”

Even though we had all six of our birds, the ride home was still quite eventful. We easily saw 100 pheasants, and even had one fly into the pickup while we were cruising on the interstate. I glanced out my passenger window, and all of a sudden, whap! It had smashed itself right into Betts’ passenger-side window.

Barry and I shared a laugh about the rooster with a headache, and Ranger went to the back seat — and of course slapped me in the face one last time — to nap.

The road hunt with Ranger was great.

Click on banner to visit The Pet Warehouse

My Pet World: Canine Insulin Best Choice for Diabetic Dogs
By Steve Dale - Twin Cities
Q. Can you use human insulin for dogs?

— K.T., Cyberspace

A. The short answer is yes. However, human insulin is not necessarily the best choice for dogs, explains Dr. Louise Murray, an internal medicine specialist and director of medicine at the ASPCA's Bergh Memorial Animal Hospital in New York City.

If you had asked this question a few days earlier, Murray says, her answer for the insulin of choice for diabetic dogs would have been a product called Vetsulin.

But as I was interviewing Murray, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Center for Veterinary Medicine issued a warning Nov. 3 about using Vetsulin due to problems with the product having varying amounts of crystalline zinc insulin in the formulation, which may cause a delay of onset and duration of activity. This instability can be dangerous, resulting in unpredictable glucose fluctuations.

Pet owners using Vetsulin are encouraged to call their veterinarians, and perhaps transition to another insulin product until further notice.

Murray, author of "Vet Confidential: An Insider's Guide to Protecting Your Pet's Health" (Ballantine Books, 2008), says the second choice for insulin used in dogs is Levemir, which is a specific type of human insulin.

The concern is that you may be considering using your own human insulin for your dog and letting an insurance carrier pick up the tab. Ethically, I couldn't support that. But honestly, it could work. Keep in mind that different insulin products have a range of effectiveness for individual dogs. If you have your mind set on this approach, be sure to tell your veterinarian and watch your dog closely for any changes or signs of hyperglycemia (increased thirst, increased urination, weight loss and lethargy) or hypoglycemia (disorientation, unsteadiness, weakness and seizures).

Q. We adopted some goldfish at our school. They all died but one, which now has some black parasite growing on its head. Or is it more like an ammonia burn. Any suggestions for a treatment?

— K.D., Chicago

A. "Most of the time when there's a mass die-off, the problem is the water quality," says William Hana, collection manager of quarantine at the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago. "I don't know what the black spot is. Ammonia level is certainly a concern; you want that to be as close to zero as possible. But I don't know about an ammonia burn. And parasites would generally be white spots, not black spots."

Hana suggests taking the surviving fishy to an aquarist who understands how to identify fish disease and parasites or a veterinarian who treats fish.

Take extra tank water with you. When a fish veterinarian asks for a "sample," he won't hand you a tiny cup; he's looking for a water sample.

Send e-mail to petworld@stevedale.tv. Include your name, city and state.

Tips for Finding a Pet Sitter For the Holidays
by Therese - PetSitUSA.com
Have you scheduled your pet sitter for the holidays yet? If not, time is running out! With Thanksgiving only 2 weeks away, as far as pet sitters are concerned, the holidays have pretty much arrived. Many of them are completely booked by now, so if you’re still looking it’s time to step up your search. It’s still possible to find someone to care for your pets, but it may take quite a few phone calls to find a reliable person to care for your pets. Here are a few tips to help you find a pet care professional to keep your pets safe at home:

Check with established pet sitters. Chances are many of them are already booked up, but they may have extra help for the holidays. Keep in mind that a number of established pet sitting businesses will not take new clients for the holidays.
If a pet sitter you call is booked ask if they know of any pet sitters who are still scheduling clients for the holidays. Don’t be shy about asking! Many of the pet sitters in your area know each other and are happy to refer business to each other.
Consider hiring a newer pet sitter. For many pet sitters who are just starting out, the first holiday season isn’t all that busy, so they’re eager to sign on new clients.

Although they may be new to the pet sitting business, it’s quite possible they have extensive experience caring for cats, dogs, and other animals.
Use our pet sitter directory to search for a pet sitter. You can check with a pet sitter network if there’s one in your area. (There are a number of pet sitter networks around the country, which serve as a way for pet sitters to refer business to each other, learn more about the business, and help each other succeed.)
Ask other pet owners, your veterinarian, dog trainer, groomer, or other pet professional if they know a reliable pet sitter they can recommend.

Word of mouth goes a long way and many pet care professionals get much of their business this way.

Once you find a good pet sitter, be sure to contact them early next year to arrange for holiday pet care. That way you’ll be more likely to have your first choice pet sitter taking care of your pets and home while you’re celebrating Thanksgiving, Christmas, and the many other holidays this time of the year.

AmeriMark Direct is a leading direct marketer of women's apparel, shoes, name-brand cosmetics, fragrances, jewelry, watches, accessories, and health-related merchandise.

Do Dogs Think Like We Do?
SF Gate
Dogs can alert us to panic attacks and plummeting blood-sugar levels. They can sniff out cancer, remind owners to take their medication, learn language, snap people out of dissociative states and, in the case of seizures, position themselves to cushion a fall.

Because of their legendary intelligence, Border Collies set the standard in obedience competitions.

Despite these proven feats, much skepticism has been bandied about concerning the intelligence of the canine mind. But according to some recent research results, it turns out we may have underestimated our perspicacious pooches.

In a study conducted last year, Hungarian researchers reported that a guide dog for a blind and epileptic person became anxious before its master suffered a seizure. The dog was taught to bark and lick the owner's face and upper arm when it detected an onset, three to five minutes before the seizure. It's still not completely understood exactly how dogs detect seizures, but several smaller studies have shown that their super sniffers can also detect lung and other types of cancer by identifying odors emitted by the disease.

German researchers reported in 2004 that a border collie named Rico could grasp the name of an object in one try, had 200 objects in his repertoire and remembered them all a month later. Even the most ardent skeptics were impressed.

Dr. Stanley Coren, a psychology professor at the University of British Columbia and an author of several books on dogs suggests that dogs do more than simply by mimicking the body language of their owners (as suggested by the enduring example of the horse Clever Hans from the early 1900s). He believes that dog brains process information similarly to the way people do.

The standard Poodle is highly intelligent and one of the easiest breeds to train.
Dr. Coren has devised an intelligence ranking of 100 breeds, with border collies at No. 1. He says the most intelligent breeds (poodles, retrievers, Labradors and shepherds) can learn as many as 250 words, signs and signals, while the others can learn 165. This means the average dog is about as intellectually advanced as a two-year-old child with an ability to understand some abstract concepts.

But Clive D. L. Wynne, an associate professor of psychology at the University of Florida who specializes in canine cognition says we shouldn't kid ourselves into thinking that dogs view the world in the same way that we do. He told the New York Times that he disagrees with close comparisons between human and canine brains, arguing that it is mainly a dogs' sensitivity to the humans around them and their desire to please (and be rewarded with treats and tummy rubs) that's behind their oft impressive capabilities.

Because of their intelligence, a German Shepherd needs a purpose or job in life to be truly happy.

To find out if your dog is Ivy League worthy or better off chasing squirrels and shedding on the couch, give them these six IQ tests courtesy of Dr. Coren. (And post your results here!)

Here's a list of the top 10 smartest dog breeds (which are not necessarily the same as the top 10 "easiest-to-train" breeds):

•1. Border Collie
•2. Poodle
•3. German Shepherd
•4. Golden Retriever
•5. Doberman Pinscher
•6. Shetland Sheepdog
•7. Labrador Retriever
•8. Papillon
•9. Rottweiler
•10. Australian Cattle Dog

And a list of the top 10 not-so-smart:

•1. Afghan Hound
•2. Basenji
•3. Bulldog
•4. Chow Chow
•5. Borzoi
•6. Bloodhound
•7. Pekingese
•8. Mastiff
•9. Beagle
•10. Basset Hound

Click on banner to visit this site

Click here for "Dating Tips, Relationship Advice and Intimacy"

Click here for "Headlines You Should Know!"

A Dog's Age
NantucketIndependent.com
Using 'a dog's age' to indicate a lapse of time, as in "I haven't seen you in a dog's age!" is an expression that's been around since the mid-1800s. The origin is lost in the mists of time. I guess dogs are supposed to have a very long life, which may or may not be true, depending on circumstances.

So, what is a dog's age anyway? With people, most of us are on familiar ground. Approximating age gives us critical clues and we're pretty astute when it comes to making some assumptions when we know an approximate age. We can tell a child from an adult, or a young adult from an elderly person, and by refining our information, we can hone our generalizations even further. A child could be an infant, a toddler or an adolescent. An adult might be a 20- something or a 50-something.

We also know, from our own life experiences, there are typical age-related parameters for humans to achieve skills or behaviors, such as walk and talk, drive a car, drink in a bar, bear children or enjoy the fruits of lifetime labors in retirement.

When it comes to animals, though, few of us are that closely attuned to their developmental stages. Most of us can identify a puppy or kitten, recognize an adult or see the signs of age in a very old pet, yet most of us probably can't say when puppies or kittens are weaned, when they reach the age of reproduction, when they are middleaged or when to expect the physical signs of old age.

In order to simplify the calculation of a dog's age, myth has it that one human year roughly equates to seven years for a dog, or for a cat for that matter. Although incorrectly skewed by this formula, a pet's age and how it relates to our own, is still one of the most important bits of information we note about animals. Usually, my second question when meeting a new dog - after discerning gender - is to determine the pet's age.

The seven-year ration might be reasonably accurate in a pet's middle age, but it has been proved to be misleading and inaccurate for the beginning and end of a pet's lifespan. For instance, at 12 months, a dog is fully grown and sexually mature. Cats spend a relatively small proportion of their lives in an immature stage. Within their first year, both dogs and cats are capable of reproducing; obviously, a 7-year old child is not. An average house cat lives 15 years, or 105 in human years using the 7-1 ratio. But there are a lot more 15-year old cats, as well as dogs, around than 105-year old people.

As for the longevity of our pets, age is only a chronological measure; it fails to take other factors into consideration, such as small dogs generally living longer than large dogs. On average, small dogs have a life span 1.5 times that of a large dog. The breed of a dog also has a strong influence on the life expectancy, due to physical and medical issues that are associated with certain breeds, regardless of size. As with their humans, females tend to live 1-2 years longer than the male.

Neutered or spayed animals live longer than intact animals. Neutering greatly reduces the risk of cancer and spaying either a dog or cat eliminates the physical demands of pregnancy and giving birth. Pets that are well cared for, properly fed, housed and maintained live longer than those who are not.

As with people, some pets are born with good genes. Some pets will be healthy all their lives, while others, in spite of the best of care, can have problems which shorten the period of their healthy and active years. In order to maximize the probability of good health, pet owners can take some factors into consideration.

Some breeds are known to be predisposed to certain diseases such as hip dysplasia, allergies or tumors. Mixed breeds have a reputation for "hybrid vigor," but no one really knows. Each breed of dog, at some point, was developed for a specific purpose, and some breeds require more mental and physical stimulation than others. Matching these needs with your ability to provide them is critical for maximum pet health.

Getting a dog from a reputable breeder who certifies and screens their dogs can minimize unforeseen health problems, but even this is no guarantee. Any pet's life will be improved with a quality diet, regular exercise, good living conditions and periodic medical check ups, particularly as they age.

There are several sources for determining the pet-to-human age conversions. The above chart provides a rough idea of how our canine and feline friends age compared to the way we do. I

Jan Jaeger is owner of Geronimo's, Ltd., Nantucket's year round pet supply shop, Cold Noses downtown pet boutique and is a member of DWAA and CWA (Dog and Cat Writer's Associations of America). Her pets at home are Junior, a Chesapeake Bay Retriever, kitties Mr. Fish, Retd. and Priscilla. At the shop are Mr. Chips, Flower bunny and three budgies.

Dog Years = Human Years
1 year 15 years
2 years 24 years
4 years 32 years
7 years 45 years
10 years 56 years
15 years 76 years
20 years 98 years

Cat Years = Human Years
1 year 15 years
2 years 24 years
5 years 36 years
7 years 45 years
12 years 64 years
15 years 76 years
21 years 100 years

Naming a Cat: A Serious Undertaking
By Jo Singer - PetSide.com
One of the most frequently asked questions appearing on many interactive pet- related websites are those requesting help naming a new kitten or cat. Many of the responders offer a long laundry list of "cute" names, depending on the cat's description or photograph provided by the asker.

However, I think that naming a kitten or cat should be considered a very serious undertaking and one that never should be done in haste, or taken lightly. After all, as the cat servant becomes more familiar with their new kitty and the name chosen proves to be totally inappropriate, think of the confusion that the poor feline may experience when names are changed rapidly. The naming of a kitten or cat carries a high degree of responsibility but many folks lack the patience to discover a suitable and appropriate name for their new kitty. This can cause some pretty disastrous results.

Rather than picking a name off a website, or choosing a name that someone else is suggesting, it is far better to wait and spend time getting to know the newcomer. Each kitten and cat has unique behavioral antics that endear us to them. A kitten may have a particularly unique appearance that may suggest a more suitable and catchy name as well.

For example: My husband and I were given an adorable seal point Siamese as a wedding gift, years ago. Even though he was 4 months old, he was the cutest tiny ball of fluff. We fell in love with him the minute we set eyes on him. He came to us with a fancy long registered name, "Brown Toast", prefixed by the name of the cattery. His name was longer than he was, in fact! As we gently let him out of the shipping carrier in which he arrived after his long airplane voyage, we instantly felt that the name that was given him was totally wrong.

After spending time with him and observing his little purrsonality quirks, with his endearing habit of licking us with his incredibly long tongue whenever he was petted, coupled with his diminutive size being the runt of the litter, his name came to us in a flash. As he was an oriental-type cat, and I am an avid pun-maker, the name "Mousie-Tongue", a play on Chairman Mao-Zedong nailed it. And not so amazingly he responded to the name immediately. The Vulcan "Mind Meld" had obviously been affective.

I always advise people be patient and wait for their kitten or cat to "reveal" his or her name. Keeping our ears and eyes open for the obvious hints being offered, letting our innate intuition guide us, will always lead us to that purrfect handle.
What method do you use to name your cats? Leave a comment and share your techniques.

Click here to visit The EZ Online Shopping Network of Stores

More Holiday Pet Tips PLUS Crate Training Your Dog

2009-11-14T05:33:00.000-08:00

Dog from Afghanistan Arrives in Texas
Houston Chronicle

AUSTIN, Texas — An overseas tour of duty has ended for a once-malnourished dog lovingly nurtured by Texas troops in Afghanistan.
The now-65-pound mixed breed dog named "Delilah" on Tuesday spent her first full day in Austin.

The white puppy in June began tagging along with National Guard troops from Camp Mabry while members were on patrol.

Spc. Matt Fleming of Austin says from the start the dog was "pretty cute walking beside us" and he wanted to keep Delilah.

His sister-in-law, Laura Fleming of Austin, set up a Web site and helped raise money to fly the dog to the U.S. About $3,500 was donated by October.

The Austin American-Statesman reports Delilah arrived in Austin on Monday afternoon. Delilah will live with Laura Fleming until her brother-in-law completes his tour of duty in January and returns home.
___

Information from: Austin American-Statesman, http://www.statesman.com

Ashley Greene Says 'Twilight' Has Made Even Her Dog Famous!
SindhToday
Washington(ANI): Ashley Greene has revealed that hitting stardom from blockbuster film ‘Twilight’ has been both fresh and shocking for her – and her dog.

The 22-year-old, who plays Alice Cullen in the 2008 movie and will be reprising the role in its upcoming sequels, said the experience was nothing less than crazy.

‘It’s crazy, right?’ People magazine quoted her as telling the December issue of Maxim.

‘I think my dog is more famous than a lot of stars out there.

“I bet some people in Hollywood are like, ‘I can’t get my picture in a mag, but Ashley’s pooch [Marlow] does?’ It’s mind-boggling,’ she added. (ANI)

Pet Myths: Do Felines Always Land on Their Feet?
Posted By: Amelia Glynn - SF Gate

This is one of those "most of the time" but "it depends" answers.
"Feline high-rise syndrome" is a term coined by American veterinarian Dr. Gordon Robinson in 1976 to describe the unfortunate increase in the number of cats that have been injured falling out of high-rise apartments.

Murphy's Toast Law: If you attach your toast to the back of a cat it will never fall buttered-side down.

It's thought that after about five floors, the distance a cat falls begins to become less relevant in terms of both injuries sustained and overall general survival. It might sound strange, but cats have what's called a "nonfatal terminal velocity" or maximum downward speed of 60 miles per hour (many small animals have this built-in advantage). Once they orient themselves, they spread themselves out like a parachute (imagine a flying squirrel), which helps slow them down and minimize injuries. There are cats on record that have fallen 20 stories or more without serious injury. As long as they don't land on something sharp, it's very likely that they will walk away from the fall.

For proof of this death-defying ability, many articles cite a 1987 study from the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association in which two vets examined 132 cases of cats that had fallen out of windows and were brought to the Animal Medical Center in New York for treatment. (Quick Jeopardy fact: the science of falling cats is called "feline pesematology.")

When the vets analyzed the data they discovered that, as one would expect, the number of broken bones and other injuries increased with the number of stories the cat had fallen — but only up to seven stories. Here's the surprising part: above seven stories the number of injuries per cat sharply declined. In other words, the farther the cat fell, the better its chances of escaping serious injury.

On average the cats included in the study fell five-and-a-half stories, with a 90 percent survival rate, although many suffered serious injuries. But of cats that fell between seven and 32 stories, more than 95 percent survived — most with fewer injuries than the cats that fell less than seven stories. One cat, for example, is known to have survived a 46-story fall. (It apparently bounced off a canopy and into a planter.) Overall, the most common injury following a fall is nose bleeds.

Watch video footage of Piper the cat who took an 80-foot spill out of a tree (the equivalent of about eight or nine stories) after being stuck there for eight days. To the amazement of her family and other onlookers, she scampered away injury free.

The uniqueness of the cat's skeleton is one of the reasons they can right themselves so quickly. Cats do not possess a collarbone, and the extremely mobile bones in their backbone allow them to easily bend and rotate their bodies to land feet first. Their "righting reflex" can be largely attributed to the existence of a small organ in a cat's inner ear called the vestibular apparatus, which acts as an internal gyroscope. The reflex begins to develop at three to four weeks of age and is typically perfected by seven weeks.

Cats also come equipped with shock-absorbing pads on the bottoms of their paws and the ability to land with flexed joints, which helps to absorb the shock of impact. But if cats fall two or more floors, even though they can usually right themselves, their legs and feet can no longer absorb all of the shock. Their heads will often hit the ground and they may fracture some teeth. Falls of four or more floors have the potential to cause more serious injuries, including a ruptured diaphragm, torn liver and fractured bones.

To help your cat enjoy outdoor scenery and fresh air in safety, always be sure upstairs windows are securely screened and make upstairs porches and balconies off-limits unless they are also screened or your cat is on a leash. If your cat should suffer a fall, immediately swaddle her in a clean towel to minimize movement and take her to a vet for a full examination to rule out possible broken bones or internal injuries.

Click on banner to visit The Pet Warehouse

Fluffy and the Flu
Posted By MONIQUE BEECH Standard Staff
H1N1 and Pets

What pets can get H1N1?

Pet ferrets are susceptible and, pet birds and pot-bellied pigs might be at risk.

There is a low risk of transmission from humans to dogs, cats, rodents and rabbits.

Signs of influenza in pets

Not eating, drinking or playing as usual. Pets might also cough, sneeze or develop a fever.

How can I reduce the risk of infecting my pets?

• Cough and sneeze in your arm

• Wash your hands frequently

• Limit contact with your pet when you are sick

• Avoid touching your pet's face as germs can be transmitted through the mouth and nose

What to do if your pet is sick

Call your veterinarian. Tell him or her if your pet has had any contact with someone who has the flu.

Pet owners with the flu might want to keep their distance from Fido and Fluffy after an American house cat was confirmed last week as having H1N1.

The 13-year-old tabby from Ames, Iowa, that came down with the virus was living in a house where two out of three family members had flu-like symptoms.

The indoor cat — the first feline to have a confirmed case of the flu — recovered from the virus, and so did its owners.

But animal disease expert Scott Weese said domestic animal cases of H1N1 are very rare, and cat and dog owners needn't be alarmed.

"We only have one confirmed case of a cat at this point," said Weese, an associate professor in the department of pathobiology at the University of Guelph.

"When you consider that there have been thousands upon thousands of people infected with the flu, and that the majority of households have a pet, we have to assume that a tremendous number of pets have been exposed, but very, very rarely have they been ill."

That hasn't stopped some of veterinarian Kelly Mark's clients from inquiring about H1N1 and their pets.

Mark, a travelling veterinarian who filled in at the Cat Clinic of Niagara in St. Catharines on Tuesday, said she wasn't surprised the virus had infected a cat, considering H1N1 has been detected in other animals such as turkeys, pigs and ferrets.

Still, Mark emphasized the Iowa cat is just one case.

"I think there's always that concern," Mark said.

"To really worry about it at this point, I think, would be overblown."

In general, people should take the same precautions with their pets that they take with family members, she said.

"At this point there seems to be more of a risk to the pet, than people. There's no proven transmission from cat to human. You know, this is one case."

Weese said, in general, different animal species animals are suspectible to their own specific flu viruses.

But H1N1 is different because it's a combination of human, swine and avian influenza, said Weese, an expert in zoonotic disease, or diseases that are transferable between people and animals

Veterinarians are not recommending pets be tested for the virus, saying it's a waste of money and won't benefit the animal.

mbeech@stcatharinesstandard.ca

Birds Will Be Birds: Living on the Wild Side
by Sangay Glass - RedRoom.com

It's fall. Whenever I see a black cloud rising from a field, poking fun at the setting sun, I simply say, "Beautiful."

The cloud is made up of a thousand of Starling birds sharing one song, their song. Each bird was taught the song as a chick, and the song brings the flock together at the end of summer.

My Starling would never be allowed to join. He wouldn't even know what they were.
I never intended to keep him. I actually didn't think he would survive an hour let alone, the night, a week, or the two years he's been with me.

The poor little thing was literally handed to me by a harried coworker who didn't have time to deal with a nearly dead hatchling. I later found out some unknown boy handed it to him and ran off. I was just foolish enough not to pass the responsibility onto someone else.

I work seasonally outside, on a farm, in the cold. The little naked bird must have been hypothermic because my frozen hand was wrapped secrurely around it.

I quickly put it in a box with some paper towels to keep it warm. I watched it breathe. Its eyes were closed tight. It's breathing slight. It yawned. I thought, Hum, Cheyne-Stokes, the coup de grâce of breath. It won't live long.

An hour later, closing time, time to go home . . . alone.

Several co-workers stood around me and the box, making comments of dread while at the same time baby talking to the tiny marvel. Of course, no one wanted to take it home. So I did.

I stopped at the pet store and bought some wax worms. Birds eat worms right? It needed to eat something to at least hydrate. Just something to keep it going until I can get it to the Humane Society.

I accidentally tapped the box when I got back in the car. It was the first time I'd heard its shrill and demanding voice.

I opened the container of what I think are really fat farm-raised maggots and held one over his open mouth. The worm squirmed, tapping the top of the chick's beak. The worm disappeared faster than I could bat an eyelash. The greedy little thing nabbed three more worms before finally quieting.

That night, I learned I would have to find a rehabber who took Starlings. They're considered a pest in my state and not really "worth saving". Unfortunately, the nearest rehabber lived four hours away. A round trip equaled a day's pay, not worth the drive..

I knew nothing about taking care of baby birds. I called the rehabber and got an answering machine. I hung up and did a web search and found, Starling Talk, my savior. At least, I'd be able to feed and take care of the thing properly until my next day off which was over two weeks away.

Honestly, I never ever wanted a bird, especially a high maintenance bird. But I found myself cooking eggs and chopping fresh apples into bits, making a slurry of yuck and cat food, and feeding him on demand with a chop stick from dawn till dusk. I even carried him back and forth to work. Bless my boss for tolerating me and my tired ass.

I felt like I had a newborn baby.

Then its eyes opened. It became something more than a featherless mutant with a wide yellow beak, screaming for more... more... moRE!

It was cute.

My daughter named him, Salem.

Twelve days later, I learned about Starlings with human imprints. Having no contact with birds for the critical period, he would not recognize Starlings as his own species. So I had to face the facts, I could take him to the rehabber when I had time and hope Salem would survive his release, or keep him as a pet, a very high maintenance pet.

Starlings are one of two wild birds legal to keep as pets in my state. It's not recommended, but it's not illegal, I was told. In fact, the ranger I talked to said, "Keep him or kill him. They're a threat to the native wildlife."

I decided to keep him, knowing he could live twenty years or more, knowing his happiness depended on me, knowing he didn't think he was human, but that we were alike and shared his instincts. So, as a human with bird instincts, I needed to do bird things with him.

What are bird things? Singing, talking, letting him poop on my keyboard, remaining silent as he's prying my fingers open and attacking them because fingers are his competition for his beloved face. He never really understood that hands are connected to faces. But we (humans) in the household understand. We enrich his life with toys and challenges everyday. We've adapted our lives for him.

Now, Salem is one of the family, part of our flock. He travels around the country with us. He goes for outings in a pet stroller on warm days. He sings Mozart, Tchaikovsky, movie themes and more. He says, I love you, and calls my daughters by name when they enter the room. He wolf whistles at me, so I tell him he's a good boy which he repeats.

He is a good boy, a joy, and I love him. I don't love exotic pet veterinary bills. But I chose to keep him.

Do I ever recommend keeping a wild animal? ... Never.

Living with a wild animal no matter how small is a huge responsibility. I may have saved Salem's life, but I owe him a life uncomplicated by my human intrusions.

He needs to be a bird. I need to be a writer. (My keyboard needs a good cleaning:)

AmeriMark Direct is a leading direct marketer of women's apparel, shoes, name-brand cosmetics, fragrances, jewelry, watches, accessories, and health-related merchandise.

Is Your Pet Ready to Greet Holiday Guests?
By LANA BERKOWITZ Houston Chronicle

If you don't have to worry about boarding your pets, finding a pet sitter or taking the animals with you on holiday travels, guests are probably coming to your house.

With the holidays coming, it's time to think about ways to minimize stress on your pets when strangers invade their space.
Here are a few suggestions from the experts at GoPetFriendly.com, armhammerpets.com and woofreport.com:

Warn guests

• Before guests arrive, tell them you have a pet and describe its size and personality. Ask them if they suffer from pet allergies and how to best alleviate their sensitivities. Most people with pet allergies are generally sensitive to dander, saliva and urine.

Brush up on obedience

• Simple commands such as “stay,” “down” and “drop it” can keep a dog from bolting out a door, greeting guests inappropriately or ingesting something that could be harmful.

Clean up

• Thoroughly clean and vacuum your entire home, and pay special attention to your guest room. Open a window, run a fan to circulate air, and place fresh flowers around your home. However, be careful that these don't create hazards for your pet. After the room is prepared, limit pet access. It is also helpful to keep a lint brush handy.

Rearranging

• If you're moving furniture to accommodate visitors, do so a few days before they arrive so your pet can get used to the new arrangement. Put away pet toys and bedding.

Make a retreat

• Many pets can become overwhelmed with holiday gatherings. Having their bed or crate, favorite toys, food and water in a quiet room creates a welcome refuge where they can relax away from the foot traffic and unfamiliar faces in their home.

Keep schedules

• Take your dog for a walk before your guests arrive, and try to keep to his regular routine because dogs love the predictability of their feeding and exercise schedules.

Make introductions

• Many little visitors to your home might not have pets of their own. Show them how your cat likes to be petted, what treats the dog likes and how to behave around the animals. Make sure an adult is with the children whenever they are with a pet.

Treats

• Many foods such as onions, raisins, macadamia nuts, chocolate and alcohol served at the holidays are toxic to your pet. Poultry bones splinter and can cause serious health issues. Any unfamiliar foods can lead to gastrointestinal distress. Keep your dog's favorite treats on hand for your guests to offer him. This will not only make sure he enjoys their company but also will prevent unauthorized snacking on people food.

Guard the door

• Since visitors may not know that your dog or cat plans to make a run for it every time the door opens, it's best to share your tips for keeping the pet inside when entering and leaving. A “Keep Pup/Kitty Inside” note on the door also may help when you're not around. Also make sure your dog is wearing a collar with current ID in case of any mishaps.

Monitor your emotions

• Overexcitement, anxiety and stress are common emotions around the holidays. Remember that your pet will pick up on your feelings, so relax, stay calm and have fun.

Sources: www.armhammerpets.com, www.woofreport.com, GoPetFriendly.com

Pet Talk: High-Spirited Hound is a Law Dog Waiting to Happen
By Sharon L. Peters, Special for USA TODAY

Bo, the black and tan coon hound who couldn't seem to find a home and family right for him, is now training with Sean Hartley to become a trailing dog.
Bo is an exquisitely well-bred black and tan coon hound so handsome that people literally stop in their tracks to stare.

Hounds just don't come much prettier than Bo. Anyone would be proud to have him.

But Bo has some sort of turbo mechanism operating just beneath his well-muscled surface that drives every second of his life. He can't bear to walk nicely on a leash, and he isn't interested in having his velvet ears rubbed. Even when he is worn out, he paces and leaps, desperate to take to the fields, follow his nose. He won't even stop to do his business — he just empties his bladder in a surging stream while on the move.

He's the kind of dog you can appreciate for his beauty and his good nature, but, to be honest, you're kind of glad you don't live with him.

In August, Bo landed in the little Rocky Mountain shelter, Teller County Regional Animal Shelter (TCRAS), where I'm a volunteer dogwalker. He had lived a pillar-to-post existence during his nine months on earth. Adopted from a Denver shelter at about 4 months old and taken home to an apartment, he was turned in at a another shelter 100 miles away when it became quickly obvious that apartment life wasn't a good fit and that his strong prey drive would bring about an unhappy ending for the resident cats.

Then he was adopted out to a couple with young kids, and in days they called a third shelter, TCRAS, saying Bo was unruly and kept knocking over the kids. The caller was told the shelter was overflowing that day, but to contact one of the other shelters (phone numbers were supplied) or to call TCRAS again soon as runs would open. The next morning, Bo was nearly hit by a car in a remote area, obviously dumped. He was picked up by a good Samaritan and taken to TCRAS, where employees instantly recognized him as the dog described over the phone.

We volunteers are accustomed to dogs with too much energy and too few manners. Most people who give up dogs do so because they never bothered to provide appropriate training and exercise, and the dog is undisciplined, stir crazy and confused. We're not professionals, but we can usually at least get animals composed enough that we can walk them and get them used to accepting a little direction.

Bo seemed to be in a different category of creature. He hurled himself at the kennel door day and night. He seemed never to relax or take a nap in the sunshine. Long leash or short, pinch collar or not, he'd pull with the strength of an ox, leaping on his back legs, making himself and the walker miserable. He seemed not to hear when spoken to; he seemed unable to focus on anything presented for his enjoyment.

None of this was his fault, of course. And although Colorado appreciates high-energy dogs that will go on long hikes or trail rides, no visitor wanted this guy.

A shelter volunteer who's a dog trainer declared Bo a dog in serious need of serious work, and took him in September to be assessed by Sean Hartley, a veteran dog trainer and recently retired SWAT cop whose dog Justice is the No. 2-ranked drug-detection dog in the nation. Hartley now trains trailing dogs for law enforcement and other professionals and trains peanut detection dogs for a recently formed non-profit called Angel Service Dogs. Hartley loves to take on shelter dogs, purebreds or mixed breeds, that are motored by some genetic hard drive that cannot be short-circuited, can only be focused into something productive.

We kept fingers crossed. Bo was not just an out-of-control young dog; he was woefully unfulfilled. Maybe this was his shot.

Last week I visited Bo, now five weeks into training with Hartley. The dog remains as high voltage as ever. "I've never seen this dog sleep. And he's probably the strongest dog I've ever seen," Hartley said with a laugh as Bo blasted outside, whining, sniffing the breeze. But when he was put through his paces — he's training as a trailing dog and will probably go to a handler in law enforcement in a few months — it was clear Bo is content … and excellent at what he does. He followed the scent of footsteps through the grass with unerring accuracy.

"This dog's gonna find some suspects or save some lives," Hartley said.

Bo, Hartley said, is clearly from potent working lines, so he's "tenacious, stubborn and hard-tough," meaning he wants to work so much he'll muscle through harsh elements, stressful situations, impossible terrain and bleeding feet to find what he's after.

Certain lines of hounds can be "fairly mellow by hound standards," but Bo's breeding keeps him in fifth gear all the time. "He's good natured, but he'll never be a touchy-feeling house pet no matter how much he's trained," said Hartley, patting Bo affectionately, something the dog enjoyed for three seconds, then pulled away, distracted by some scent on the wind.

After at least three attempts, he's nobody's pet. But stay tuned. If Hartley's right, you may read some day about a lost child being found by a rangy hound called Bo.

Click on banner to visit this site

Click here for "Dating Tips, Relationship Advice and Intimacy"

Click here for "Headlines You Should Know!"

Dog Training 101
Author: autoincome101
Although pet dogs are often seen as of members of the family, they can also sometimes be seen as obnoxious members of the family or even downright dangerous.

In order to mitigate the annoying, obnoxious, and sometimes dangerous behavioral characteristics that dogs can display, their owners frequently turn to training programs.

Because there are around 65 million pet dogs in the United States, there is a vast amount of behavioral training options out there. There are manuals, books, schools, seminars, training experts, and classes.

Finding the right program for you and your dog is often a matter of economics coupled with the problems your dog may need corrected. Some training programs specialize in getting rid of a certain problem characteristic of a dog such as aggressiveness while other programs may be more geared towards teaching tricks. Furthermore, some programs may be geared towards puppy instruction while others are geared towards teaching dogs of all ages what behavior is acceptable as well as unacceptable for them to do. And some obedience programs may be geared towards teaching smaller dogs how to act while other courses are geared towards teaching larger dogs to put on their best behavior.

Many people find that enrolling your pet in an obedience course can be very helpful in getting rid of the aggressive behavior some dogs engage in. Training is used to help dogs that bite, nip, jump on people, and get into fights with other dogs.

Some people buy the books that teaches them to do it themselves. Or they may sign up for dog behavior classes because their pets demonstrate destructive behavior like digging holes in the yard or chewing up everything they can. Other owners seek out other courses to learn how to keep their dogs from running after cats, children, cars or even the mailman.

Many people use some form of obedience training to help with dogs that just cannot seem to stop barking. And many other people use other techniques to help canine companions that need to be housebroken.

Besides ending problematic behavior in canines, training is often used to teach dogs commands such as "sit," "fetch," "stay," "come," and "roll over." People also enroll their pets in specialized courses to teach their older pets new tricks and teach the younger ones new tricks.

Some trainers can also offer advice on how to deal with common canine health problems such as worms, fleas and bad breath. And behavioral training is sometimes used to help dogs that may have problems like leash fear, travel anxiety, or depression.

Become Skilled At Crate Training A Puppy All In One Effortless Step
Author: effited
Crate training a puppy is not a form of reprimand, but can in fact help a dog become a well-adjusted animal. Not only is training your pet to nap in a crate effortless, but dogs of all breeds find them comforting, rather like resting in their natural home, a den. In no time the crate will not only become your pet’s number one site to sleep but a place of comfort when actions in the outside world become startling – such as fireworks. Although you may suspect a crate occupies lots of space, you can use the cover as tabletop space.

Keep in mind, to house train a puppy you will need some way to impound him when you are not able to watch their actions. A dog crate is a safe way to confine your puppy for short periods of time through the day and to use as a relaxing bed at night. Crates come in wire mesh as well as plastic. The wire one stores level in a small space; whereas, the plastic crates are more comfy and permitted for airline travel.

Before you bring your new puppy home, choose on a good place for the crate. It should be adjacent to where the family will spend lots of time but you may want to at first put the crate in your bedroom to ease the first few nights of sleeping. A spanking new puppy will miss their litter mates and may well whine the first few nights at their new house. This is not because of the crate, but due to isolation.

If they can spot you at night, not only is this more reassuring for the dog, but you will be attentive when they need to go potty during the night. Eventually you will want to move the enclosure to a more centrally situated place so the puppy can feel incorporated with the “pack” even when they are in their crate. Through crate training, don’t be troubled to move the crate from place to place from day to night. It is uncomplicated for the puppy to grasp this as their “home” even though it is in a different location.

Do not put water in their crate as puppies like to keep their pet furniture area hygienic and yet will habitually spill water when drinking. A safe chew toy or two is a nice addition to the crate as it will give them something to entertain themselves with. You may shut the door at night and when you have to leave the puppy alone, but by and large you should leave the door open for the puppy to have access in and out as they see fit. Do not abandon the puppy in their cage for longer than they can wait to go potty. Through early crate training, this is no more than a few of hours during the day.

Click here to visit The EZ Online Shopping Network of Stores

How to De-Stress Your Pet

2009-11-12T21:19:00.000-08:00

Pack Your Doggie Bags
Metro.us
The holidays are coming, which means they’re bringing the busiest travel days of the year with them. As Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and New Year’s approach, remember these tips so your pets can enjoy them with you:

1. American Airlines and Sherpa Pet Group have introduced the “Guaranteed on Board” program to ensure your buddy’s safety, and Continental Airlines is another pet-friendly airline. But always check with your airline before making reservations — policies vary greatly among them.

2. Check in with your veterinarian before taking a long trip to make sure your pet has had the proper vaccinations and is able to travel. Some dogs may be too old, too young or just not ready. Also, never use sedatives for your pet when flying — ask your veterinarian for the safest way to calm it down in high altitudes.

3. More than ever, your pet needs proper ID when traveling. Make sure your name and contact information is on the collar, the crate and anywhere else.

4. If your pet is traveling in a crate, make sure it feels comfortable and gets used to being inside. Fill it with your pet’s favorite blanket and toys so it feels more like home. Also, make sure your dog can lie down, sit, stand, roll over and fetch. OK, well, not the last one.

– Wendy Diamond is a pet lifestyle expert, author, animal rescue advocate and editorial director of Animal Fair magazine, www.animalfair.com

Top Tips for Keeping a Pet on a Budget
By Dog Lover ChowChowPets.com
Living through the financial crisis is difficult enough, but add animals which rely on you for nourishment, a home and veterinary attention, anything that can be done, helps.

It’s a shame that many pets are given up or abandoned every day, as animal lovers struggle to cope with the current economic climate.

This is exceedingly thorny for pet charities who have look after pets when money is scarce, surviving on donations to keep their animals in good wellbeing.

Here are a few points which should help make looking after a animal on a tight budget more manageable:

1. Consider every animal cost? Do you need that specific pet food or product? It is always a good idea to raise pets up with variety, both dry and wet, as well as different brands and flavours. Watch out for promotions. You can stock up. Consider vouchers, search on the net for some good deals. Buy based on price per pound / Kg, as sometimes, principally with special deals, the smaller pack can be more economical.

2. Wherever possible, pet owners can often club together to buy feed and bedding in bulk, reducing the overall price and passing on savings to all.

3. Veterinary bills are unknown but still have to be considered. If cash is a little tight, you may find a lot of Vets will allow you to spread the cost, and reimburse monthly. If you can, afford it – have or keep pet insurance.

4. Most people can make lifestyle changes! It’s not all about finding ways to keep your animal more economically, what about yourself!

5. What about earning some cash? Perhaps find a dog walking job Become a Dog Walker. Good companies will require you do it regularly. Another alternative is to become a pet sitter, though professional businesses such as London Pet Sitter will also require you be a London dog walker.

6. What about your other pets, you may have put your cats in a cattery, what about using a cat sitter? The pet may prefer it and the pet sitters often do other things.

7. Do use external stabling or boarding? Most horses can exist quite cheerfully outside for most of the year, just make sure there’s food, water and shelter available. If this is a suitable option for your horse, it could reduce the cost of stabling considerably.

8. Are you thinking of choosing a pet, certainly consider taking an animal from a charity, they have so many animals looking for a home during this crisis.

Enjoy your animal, they are worth the cost.

Click on banner to visit The Pet Warehouse

How Do You Teach Your Dog Not to Chew?
by Terry Zinndell - DogDootie.com
The muscles found in the jawbone of a dog are capable of stripping the flesh off a rawhide bone in a few minutes. Even an ordinary Golden retriever can tear that thick bone apart really fast. That is because a dog has some of the strongest jaw muscles among animals. And that is why it can become a problem that they can do the same to the furniture too.

The chewing tendency of a dog is going to depend upon his breed and that is why a knowledgeable owner needs to know about the behavior patterns of his dog. However, chewing every object which is present in the house is a normal tendency in every existing dog breed. That is the reason why one has to focus the dog’s attention on some other object upon which they can chew. But that is quite a difficult thing to do with some dogs.

There are younger dogs (mostly puppies) that will have a greater tendency to chew with less discrimination regarding what they choose. However, even young puppies can be discouraged from grabbing things their owners would prefer the dogs stayed away from.

As a little prevention is always better than the cure, keep laundry, shoes, and other chewable items away from the vicinity of the dog. Keep the toys meant for the dog away from the toys which are used by the children.

One can also keep a large number of attractive toys at different locations, both indoors and outdoors, which can be chewed by the dog. Some of these items may include hard rubber, plastic bones, and rawhide bones according to the breed one has. It is not suggested to give a real bone like a chicken bone to a dog, because it might splinter and cause internal injuries.

Thankfully, there are a great many special toys that can be used instead. Many will even have hollow interiors designed to hold treats. Often, the dog will need to struggle a little in order to get to the treat at the center which is the whole idea. This will keep the dog occupied and presents your pet with a solid mental and physical workout which keeps them striving to reach their reward.

One can also admonished the dog firmly especially when it decides to chew upon unsuitable objects. However, yelling or sharp physical punishment is not desirable. So instead of yelling at one’s dog, one needs to vent that anger and frustration somewhere else. That is not easily done, but has to be followed, for a harmonious relationship between the pet and the master.

The development of specific habits can be done by leashing the dog. Then an unsuitable object has to be placed near the dog. The moment, the dog approaches it, the leash should be jerked sideways, and No said very firmly.

Always be sure to jerk sideways and never back. A dog’s neck muscles are very strong, but the dog’s throat can be easily bruised. Remember, the pulling movement is to inform and definitely not to punish.

A Dog might have a tendency to chew upon every exterior item outside like fences and plants. Use home recipes like cayenne pepper to coat the areas which the dog likes to chew. One may also use harmless commercial mixtures, which consist of bitter apple, a product definitely not liked by dogs.

As with all dog training, patience, persistence and consistency will be the primary factors which contribute to success. To suppress chewing, one must be up to the complex challenge since you are training the dog to not perform a behavioral pattern as opposed to learning a new one.

The easiest way to do this is to keep vigilant and calm and redirect the dog’s attention to objects which it can chew, so that it can follow its instincts. The purpose of the exercise is to keep your relationship with your pet happy, instead of losing your temper.

Choosing a Pet – Finding a Friend That Fits Your Lifestyle
By: Jill Pertler, Living North Magazine

Pet ownership is a big step. It is exciting and fun. It can also be a lot of work. Before you make the leap and bring that adorable, wide-eyed, fluffy little kitten home, take some time to assess your personal situation and how it might impact your choice of pet.
Two decades ago, when my husband and I celebrated our first wedding anniversary, we decided we were ready for the next step in our responsible, married lives: pet ownership. We purchased a book that gave all sorts of information on different breeds of dogs, grooming needs, exercise requirements, cost, temperament, size and lifespan. It was very useful in helping us know what to choose.

We got a kitten.

The book made it clear that we weren’t ready for dog ownership. We lived in a small apartment, both of us worked full-time and had no extra moments in the day for things like dog walking or grooming. It wasn’t the right environment for a pooch.

A cat, on the other hand, was more suited to our circumstance. He could stay at home for hours at a time without chewing up our sneakers or furniture. His litter box was available, he didn’t need to go outside or be taken for walks. He could keep himself clean. We named him Bogart.

Because we made a careful and thoughtful choice, Bogart was a cherished member of our family for many years. He was a good fit, thanks to the book (about dogs).

Pet ownership is a big step. It is exciting and fun. It can also be a lot of work. Before you make the leap and bring that adorable, wide-eyed,

fluffy little kitten home, take some time to assess your personal situation and how it might impact your choice of pet. Some options, along with their upsides and downsides, are listed here. We’ll start with the simpler pets and work our way up from there.

Fish: Upsides

Fish don’t require much of your attention. They don’t need to be groomed or played with. As long as you remember to feed them, they just about take care of themselves.

They can be pretty to look at, fun to watch and, depending on what breed you choose, you may get to see them have babies.

Unless you go for the fancy saltwater varieties, fish can be fairly inexpensive to maintain. They don’t go to the vet. They don’t chew on furniture.

Downsides

Their tank needs to be clean; that means you’ll need to clean it. Depending on the tank, this might be a weekly or monthly chore.

Fish don’t give much back. They don’t purr or roll over to have their tummies scratched. They are basically non-interactive.

Gerbils, guinea pigs, hamsters and other rodents: Upsides

These pocket pets are cute and fluffy. While they don’t require your attention, you can hold them in your hand or on your lap and they are fun to watch when playing in their cage.

They are fairly easy to maintain. Like fish, they need to be fed and their habitat needs regular cleaning.

Downsides

These little critters are rodents; they have sharp teeth and can bite if threatened. They are good at escaping from their cages and will chew on things.

They reproduce easily, so if you have more than one, you’ll want to make sure they are the same sex. Unless you want babies, of course.

Birds: Upsides

Birds come in different shapes and colors. They are pretty pets. Some birds can be trained to talk.

They are fairly easy to maintain; give them a clean cage and a regular feeding of bird food. Some varieties also like fresh fruits and veggies.

They are naturally inquisitive and like attention.

Downsides

Some birds can be expensive; larger birds require more of your time and can live for 50 years or more. They like to vocalize (scream), which can be unnerving at six in the morning.

While they are easy to maintain, they are messy and their cage needs to be cleaned frequently.

Birds have sharp beaks and can bite. Larger birds have larger beaks.

Cats: Upsides

Cats are cute and cuddly (when they want to be). They can sit in your lap and purr. They like to play and pounce. Cats have unique personalities.

Cats groom themselves and need only minimal help with keeping clean. They are easy to train (litter box) and feed (cat food).

Downsides

If your cat uses a litter box, you will have to change the litter.

Cats shed. You may find cat hair on your carpet and furniture. Some people are allergic to cats. If you are one of them, you don’t want a cat living in your house.

Cats require regular care from a veterinarian. You’ll want to have your cat spayed or neutered, and keep up with regular shots for things like rabies and distemper. This adds to the cost of maintenance.

Dogs: Upsides

Dogs are highly interactive pets. They seek out human attention and will love their owner unconditionally. They want to please you.

Dogs come in many shapes, sizes and personalities. You can pick the breed that you like best — from a small lap dog to a large guard dog, and everything in between. Dogs are smart. You can teach your dog tricks like roll over, shake hands and play dead.

Downsides

Dogs can act out in negative ways if they are left alone for too long. They can chew (and destroy) everything from slippers to couches.

Many dogs shed. All need regular grooming – brushing, haircuts or both.

Dogs need exercise, hence the phrase, “walk the dog.”

There can be a number of costs associated with dog ownership. They need regular vet checks and should be spayed or neutered. Some breeds require the skills of a professional dog groomer. You may elect to put your dog through obedience training or puppy school. And, of course there’s dog food and the occasional Scooby snack.

Which pet is right for you?

A just-for-fun quiz

Choose the answer that best fits your situation.

Why I want a pet…

A. I want a friend to love me and play with me.

B. I want a pet to sit on my lap and pounce on my head when I am sleeping.

C. I want a conversation piece. Something to keep me entertained.

D. I want something cute and fuzzy that my kids will enjoy, without the upkeep of a real pet like a dog.

E. I really don’t want a pet. I’m just doing this to appease my spouse and/or kids.

I would give my pet attention…

A. Lots of times each day.

B. Once or twice every day.

C. Maybe every other day.

D. Once or twice a week.

E. I don’t want to play with my pet.

Space for my pet…

A. I have a big yard or play area for my pet.

B. I have a small outdoor area for my pet.

C. My pet would have to stay indoors.

D. My pet would stay in its cage unless I was holding it.

E. My pet would stay in its aquarium.

Holding my pet…

A. I want a pet that is too big for my lap.

B. I want a pet that can sit on my lap.

C. I’d like a pet that can perch on my finger.

D. I want a pet that is soft and fluffy and can fit in my pocket.

E. I don’t need to hold my pet.

Where my pet sleeps…

A. My pet will sleep next to my bed.

B. My pet will sleep wherever he pleases.

C. My pet will sleep with his cage covered at night.

D. My pet will sleep in his cage, but mostly during the day.

E. My pet will sleep when I turn the aquarium lights off.

Exercise…

A. My pet will want and need exercise every day.

B. My pet will pounce and jump. That’s exercise enough.

C. My pet will exercise by flying across the room.

D. My pet will run on a treadmill.

E. My pet will swim for hours and hours each day.

Loving my pet…

A. I want a pet that loves me back every minute of every day.

B. I want a pet that loves me, but only when he is ready.

C. I want a pet that loves looking at himself in the mirror.

D. I want a pet that loves squeezing through tight spaces.

E. I want a pet that loves swimming.

Results

If you answered mostly A’s

You are ready for the big plunge into pet ownership. You are prepared to spend the time and energy on a pet that barks and wags its tail. A dog is the right choice for you.

If you answered mostly B’s

You understand the temperament of a feline and are ready to live with the attitude that makes this animal special. A cat will be purrfect for you.

If you answered mostly C’s

Tweet. Tweet. You want a pet that is colorful, loud, fun to look at and talk to. You don’t mind a winged creature flying across your living room. Go for the bird.

If you answered mostly D’s

You are looking for cute and cuddly without the time and expense of a cat or dog. Choose a gerbil, hamster or other fuzzy rodent friend. Just make sure the cage latch is tight.

If you answered mostly E’s

You really don’t want a pet, do you? You think fish are the answer because they take little or none of your time or effort. That’s okay. At least you’re honest. Go fish.

AmeriMark Direct is a leading direct marketer of women's apparel, shoes, name-brand cosmetics, fragrances, jewelry, watches, accessories, and health-related merchandise.

The Right Fishes For Your Aquarium
By : David H. - Pet-Health.org

Saltwater aquariums are great for people who love the ocean and the creatures that live underneath it. It is best to orient yourself and choose the right fish carefully.
If you want to have the most wonderful marine aquarium in your own home, you have to first choose what kind of fishes you will put in it. More over, you have to be able to maintain your aquarium. This requires patience and motivation. Having a salt water aquarium is not that hard after all.

Choosing the Right Fish for Your Saltwater Aquarium

The first step is to decide on the number of fish you want to house in your aquarium. Make a rough estimate on how many fish will fit spaciously in your aquarium. As a rule, you have to allow two inches of fish with every gallon of water in the tank.

Buy all the fish you need from a licensed pet shop or a reputable dealer. Buying from a good source will save you all the hassle and troubles. You will clearly buy the best and healthy fishes rather than the ones who are sick and may be more likely to die after a few days. The credibility of the seller is determined in his showcase aquarium. The look of the seller’s tank may become a motivational source for you.

Research and read more about the type of fish you want. Some fishes require particular needs such as diet, compatibility, temperature, and chemicals.

Buy a school of fish for there are only minimal compatibility problems. In addition, it will be easy to determine if any fishes are indicating an illness or whatsoever. Try the cardinal tetras or neons, loaches or pearl, Corydoras catfish, zebra danios and any of all the barbs.

Do not risk buying one of anything you like. Just stick to the school of fish rather than get different kinds of fish. The aquarium will be difficult to manage and maintain when there are different species of fish.

Try to get a clown plecostomus or bristle nose. You may also want to get two otocinclus catfish to control the algae in the tank.

You may also want to raise a killifish. This kind of fish is easy to maintain and perfect for beginners though the killifish is very difficult to find.

Always ask you dealer about the fish compatibility in your aquarium. Take good caution of the cichlids for some of them can grow large. In addition, the angelfish need aquariums more than ten gallons. A type of fish called Oscars is quite messy and not preferable for your tank. Oscars tend to eat fish and can be particularly messy.

Keep away from buying piranhas. Piranhas are impressive creatures but they tend to eat a lot of goldfish as well as other fishes in your aquarium. In addition, mixing piranhas with other fishes may cause issues on parasites and diseases. If you really want to buy piranhas, you must watch their diet and quarantine them in a different aquarium. Piranhas are considered a school fish but they tend to eat one another if they are not fed properly.

You may want to get bala sharks. This type of fish looks fierce and wonderful plus it is not really a shark. It grows over twelve inches. This is recommended to those who want to grow large fishes.

In general, avoid buying a catfish. This fish can be nasty predators. Catfish tend to grow bigger and bigger over time. So, if you rally want a catfish, be prepared for the problems that may arise.
Author Resource:- For more information on About Saltwater Aquariums and The Proper Salinity - Please visit our website. http://www.saltwater-aquariums.net/ & http://www.saltwater-aquariums.net/thepropersalinity.html.

Article From Pet Health Articles

How to Pick the Perfect Pooch
By Molly Snyder Edler - OnMilwaukee.com Staff Writer

If you don't have a lot of time or patience, consider adopting an older dog.
All too often, people adopt a dog because they like the animal's appearance, but the pet's personality is not a good fit for the family. Unfortunately, this makes the training process very difficult and can lead to the caregiver feeling like his or her only option is to relinquish the dog to the humane society or another organization.

So, how can you guarantee you're picking the right pooch? OnMilwaukee.com asked a couple of dog experts to weigh in with adoption tips.

Stacy LaPoint is the owner of Companion Natural Pet Food, a Riverwest-based company that has been in existence for almost a decade, and Jill Albers is a long-time Wisconsin Humane Society volunteer. Both of these women own dogs and work with them on a regular basis, so if you're considering adding a four-legged creature to your family, take this advice to heart and keep it in mind while gazing at a box filled with adorable puppies.

OnMilwaukee.com: How much should a person research before adopting a dog?

Jill Albers: Definitely do your research first, but keep an open mind. Most people think they should get a puppy, but they don't realize the time, training and patience it takes to raise a puppy. Consider adopting an older dog -- by older I mean 1-5 years. Chances are, the dog will already be potty trained and well socialized.

Think about your lifestyle and how a pet will fit in with your family and your schedule. If you have children, make sure you involve them not only in the process of adopting the dog, but also caring for the dog.

Stacy LaPoint: Yes, definitely research breeds first, and consider breed temperaments, common breed-specific health conditions and how that will fit into your family and finances. Also, research where your pet is coming from if it's not a well-known establishment like the humane society.

OMC: Where should a person go to adopt a pet?

SL: I never purchase dogs / cats from private breeders because I follow the old adage "don't breed or buy while those in rescue die." I only adopt from rescue / shelters as a personal conviction.

JA: I would encourage everyone to check with your local animal shelters and rescue groups. There are plenty of animals out there who need good homes. There is no need to spend excessive amounts of money on a pure bred dog unless you want the dog for specific reasons ie: allergies, hunting dogs, show dogs, etc.

OMC: What should a person look for when picking from a litter?

SL: If picking from a litter one should visit the litter several times between the ages of 4-7 weeks of age. Consider the puppy not based on markings or color, but instead, the one that isn't easily frustrated by the other puppies or being picked up while sleeping and doesn't struggle to get away while held or restricted. They change a lot between four to seven weeks so one puppy may act a certain way at four weeks and then completely different at seven weeks. It helps to know and understand this by the seventh week so you can pick the right puppy for your family.

OMC: What about food?

SL: You should be able to afford human-quality food for your new family member. If you want a big dog but can only afford cheap food from a box store / grocery store, then consider a smaller dog and better food. You'll save money in vet bills later by feeding quality nutrition that can't be found at the chain stores.

OMC: If someone is wavering about pet ownership, what do you recommend?

JA: Consider fostering a dog. The Wisconsin Humane Society has a wonderful foster program. Or consider volunteering at a shelter. I volunteer at the Wisconsin Humane Society once a week. I have learned so much about dogs and I love that I get to interact with all kinds of dogs.

Click on banner to visit this site

Click here for "Dating Tips, Relationship Advice and Intimacy"

Click here for "Headlines You Should Know!"

A Scent to De-Stress Pets
By LAURA JOHANNES - wsj.com
If Fido is stressed out, maybe he just needs a whiff of pheromones. A growing array of animal pheromone products —which contain substances the animal perceives as calming—can improve pet behavior, say the companies that sell them. Veterinarians say one company's products is backed by extensive scientific evidence, but other brands need more research.

Pheromones are chemical compounds sensed in cats and dogs by the vomeronasal organ in the back of the nose. Animals use pheromones for communication. Now a growing number of companies are seeking to harness pheromones' power to help humans curb behavior problems in pets.

You can buy calming animal pheromones in spray form, intended to be used on problem areas such as sofas where a cat is marking its territory, or as diffusers, which are plugged into an electrical socket to cover a wide area. In recent years, collars that release pheromones over a monthlong period have become available.

Veterinarians say that pheromones do work—but not all the time. "They work on some animals, and not others," says veterinarian Bonnie Beaver, executive director of the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists in College Station, Texas. "They work in some situations but not in others."

In cats, pheromones work well to calm the animals on trips and when introducing them to a new environment, as well as reducing scratching of furniture, says animal behaviorist Gary Landsberg, of Thornhill, Ontario. In many cats, pheromone therapy can reduce, or even eliminate, territorial urine marking on vertical surfaces. But it is generally ineffective in combatting urination on beds and other horizontal surfaces, which is most often caused not by overall stress, but by a cat's unhappiness with the location or size of its litter box or the litter used, hesays.

Overall, pheromone therapy appears to be less effective than drug therapies, such as antidepressants, typically used on pets with behavior problems, Dr. Landsberg says. But he recommends trying pheromones first, since they are easier to administer and have no side effects.

The most-studied cat product is Feliway, a synthetic F3 facial pheromone, which cats deposit on surfaces when they rub them with their cheeks. To the cat, it signifies a location is safe and known, according to Libourne, France, manufacturer Ceva Santé Animale.

Feliway—backed by 13 studies published in scientific journals or presented at meetings—is available through veterinarians, or through pet stores under the Comfort Zone brand. A 75-milliliter spray bottle (good for about 500 sprays) has a suggested retail price of $38. Diffusers with enough pheromone product to last a month sell for a suggested price of about $50, with refills for $28.

For dogs, the most-researched product is DAP, or Dog Appeasing Pheromone, a synthetic version of a substance made by mother dogs to calm puppies. Also from Ceva and sold in stores as Comfort Zone, the product is backed by 16 published or presented studies. It's available as a spray, diffuser or, from your vet as a collar for $33 to $37, depending on the size.

In dogs, pheromones seem to work best when used in conjunction with training, scientists say. In a study of 45 puppies in two-month training classes, the animals wearing the collars were "better socialized and adapted faster" to new situations, according to a Ceva-funded study published in December, in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association. DAP is recommended to help dogs adjust to strangers and new environments, and to reduce fear from noises, such as thunderstorms.

This spring and summer, Sergeant's Pet Care Products Inc., of Omaha, Neb., came out with Good Behavior collars for cats and dogs, which sell for $14.99 and last a month. The product packaging says the collars are "calming" and include "pheromones." But while Ceva describes in detail the pheromones in its products, Sergeant won't say exactly what its products contain. That information is "proprietary," a spokeswoman says. The company has three studies, so far unpublished, which it says confirm the products' efficacy.

Beware of products labeled "calming spray" and containing aromas, such as lavender, which may be soothing but are backed by scant research.

URBAN ANIMAL: Tips to Help a Geriatric Pet
InsideToronto.com
Dear UrbanAnimal,
I have an 18-year-old cat named, Norman. I've had him since he was a kitten and I think I've heard him meow just once or twice in all these years. Lately he's become very vocal. At first, I thought it was cute he'd found his voice after all these years, but I think he's trying to tell me something. He doesn't look ill. He's eating and drinking and using his litter box. He's also sleeping well, but as soon as he gets up, he starts meowing. Have you ever heard of this before?

Jocelyn

Dear Jocelyn,

First, congratulations on helping Norman live such a long, healthy life.

It sounds as if he's feeling well, but I understand your concern he's begun "talking" to you after 18 years of silence.

Cats share a talent for hiding symptoms of illness and this is why my first suggestion is to book a veterinary appointment for a checkup if you haven't done so in the recent past.

Animals aren't able to tell us when something is wrong and, depending on how observant you are, symptoms of illness can sometimes be easily overlooked. You wrote Norman is eating and drinking as usual, but sometimes when we live with an animal year after year, we fail to see subtle changes. I'm not suggesting you aren't aware of your cat's normal behaviours, but we humans can miss small cues, especially when they arrive slowly. This is the reason why it's a good idea to have a veterinary checkup to rule out medical reasons for Norman's vocalizations.

The examination will include a physical check and your vet may suggest further tests to uncover problems such as arthritis, renal failure, deafness, blindness, dental problems, diabetes, thyroid issues and a number of other maladies commonly seen in elderly animals.

Many health problems in pets, considered insurmountable in the recent past, have now become possible to treat. When caught in the early stages, these issues can be addressed with medication, change of diet or other options recommended by your veterinarian. Veterinary science has evolved in leaps and bounds over the past few years and you may be surprised at the options available nowadays.

Since you wrote Norman is otherwise healthy, I'm thinking his vision and hearing may be weakening. Cats depend on their eyes and ears to help them navigate through life and, just like people, these senses can deteriorate with age.

Yes, it's an age thing.

You may not have noticed the signs because they can decline slowly over months or even years. If this is Norman's problem, he may be feeling insecure and has suddenly found he needs his voice to communicate with you. He's saying: "I'm having trouble hearing and seeing you. So I'm using my voice. Will this work?"

It's not uncommon for cats to live into their 20s and Norman may indeed be one of those cats.

Dealing with a geriatric animal has its challenges, but to many owners of elderly felines, these can be the best years of a cat's life. They've "been there, done that" and their idea of a great time is a long snooze.

Here are a few suggestions to help ease a cat through his geriatric years:

* Elderly animals aren't quite the adaptable creatures they were in their youth. Keep litter box, food bowls and beds in the same locations.

* An adjustment in diet may be necessary. All that extra sleeping can pack on the pounds, which can be detrimental at any age, but more so in the elderly. Ask your veterinarian to recommend an appropriate diet geared to a senior cat's needs.

* Groom kitty often. Like people, cats lose their flexibility and are unable to groom themselves as adequately as they'd like. Brush gently, keeping away from any protruding bones and stop when kitty has had enough. Consult your veterinarian if you feel any lumps or bumps while grooming.

* An older cat still wants to play. Calm, friendly games will stimulate your cat's mind and provide physical exercise.

* Cats that live with other pets or rambunctious children may need their own special place to enjoy peace and quiet. Many owners notice their cat has chosen a warm, safe place in a closet or cubbyhole in the house as their private retreat. Add a comfy bed to that place and encourage your cat to use it when there's too much action elsewhere in the house.

Thank you for writing, Jocelyn, and please keep me posted on Norman's progress.

E-mail jacque-newman@rogers.com with a question, comment or suggestion.

Click here to visit The EZ Online Shopping Network of Stores

Holiday Pet Safety Tips

2009-11-10T23:57:00.001-08:00

Woman Drives into Aquarium at Tampa Airport
msnbc.com

Motorist, child OK after vehicle slams into 1,500-gallon tank
TAMPA, Fla. - The driver and the child in her lap survived when a pickup slammed into a 1,500-gallon aquarium at Tampa International Airport, officials said. The tropical fish were not so lucky.

Airport officials say 36-year-old Yamile Campuzano-Martine lost control of her truck and drove into the saltwater tank outside the American Airlines baggage claim Monday night. Airport spokeswoman Brenda Geoghagan said the driver had an unrestrained 6-year-old boy in her lap.

About 90 percent of the 30 to 40 saltwater fish in the tank were killed.

The aquarium was part of a public art program. The airport spent $200,000 on the exhibit, which included the 12-foot tank.

Campuzano-Martine was cited for careless driving. No number was listed for her in public records.

PET CORNER: Plan for Companion Pet's Future After You're Gone
By Laverne Hughey, Humane Society of Harrison County
Perhaps the majority of readers have made definite plans for their dog's or cat's future if something should happen to the animal's caretaker. Even when we know it is the smart thing to do, we may hesitate to complete the plan.

Just as we make plans for our estate by making a will or trust, serious thought should be given to what would happen to any companion animals when we are no longer present to handle those duties of daily care and assuring we have found someone to take over.

Something usually happens to someone I know, which prompts the subject for this column. Many will no doubt recognize the person and the situation that arose when a Marshall citizen recently died. There was no close relative surviving and, therefore, no obvious person to step forward to accept responsibility for the individual's small dog.

This problem has been addressed a few times in this column, and now it seems appropriate to visit again. Yes, of course, there are a few surviving relatives, but they do not live in Marshall. They probably were not close to the dog, therefore, have no feeling of responsibility for the animal, regardless of the inheritance from the deceased. That could possibly give someone in the group inheriting under the Last Will and Testament, the thought that it might be a good idea to do what the deceased would want done. On the other hand, taking an animal might be too much for some people.

The person who died had called me a few years ago to ask advice about acquiring a "purebred puppy." Explaining that I knew nothing about purebred dogs, quite naturally I suggested starting with the Marshall Animal Shelter as the facility often has purebred animals available. At that time, The Pet Place which is headquarters for the Humane Society of Harrison County, had not been built. The fact that the person would be saving a life by adopting did not inspire that action.

Next, the suggestion was made that a rescue organization be contacted. No, did not want to do that. It was easy to see where this would lead, straight to a breeder. There is nothing wrong with acquiring a dog or cat from a breeder. That decision, however, will encourage continued breeding, which means that even more animals will be looking for homes.

It came to my attention that the person did purchase a puppy which, naturally, was very active as most puppies are, which is not the best scenario for a senior citizen.

It would seem more sensible to adopt a senior citizen dog that really needs a forever home, and older dogs are more difficult to place as many families simply want a young, frisky, playful animal. Yes, they are also irresistible and so appealing.

The Marshall Animal Shelter and The Pet Place usually have adult dogs and cats as well as puppies and kittens. It seems logical to have a look at a mature animal, play with it, walk it around, talk to it, see how the animal reacts. You may be pleasantly surprised. And, let's remember, no house training and other time-consuming activities. Adult dogs and cats usually understand the rules of the new home and easily become adjusted.

So, what happened to the "surviving" dog of the person who died? It seems the dog was placed with a new home, which did not work out for whatever reason. Then, the dog was passed on to another home, which did not work out. The dog was then taken to a facility that had boarded her on a few occasions and where she seemed comfortable. Someone saw her there and adopted the dog.

The story is that the new caretaker and the dog are doing well. Let's hope that is indeed the case.

All That You Wanted Know About Tea Cup Persian Cats
PetSiteHQ.com
It is quite odd to hear the words tea cup cats when somebody talks about it and you dont know what it means. You may be aware of miniature cats in the market but tea cup cats are supposed to be something different.

You can imagine that tea cup cats as miniature cats but they are little different as far as their characteristics are concerned. When we refer to normal cats the female weighs around fourteen pounds and a male up to seventeen pounds.

On the contrary a teacup Persian cat starts weighing in at the measly three pound mark and stays below eight at the maximum. If you have these weight markings in mind then you will immediately be able to gauge whether the cat being offered in the market is an actual teacup Persian cat.

When you are looking for a tea cup cat you should be concious of the traits of a tea cup cat otherwise you may be cheated by some cat breeder of doubtful quality. Any seller who would want to trick you will offer a cat which is less than ten pounds in weight as a tea cup cat but this cat is a Persian cat of common variety. Those Persian cats which weigh ten pounds or less do not necessarily become a tea cup Persian.

Tea cup cats make excellent pets as they are so adorable and cuddly. Therefore many people like to bring them these charming cats home as they are great choice for a pet.

The teacup Persian cat with its extremely small size and delicate nature is all the more demanding of love and care which is one of the things that cat owners instinctively do.

The tea cup cats do not come naturally and are bred by a process called inbreeding. Here the cat breeders mate the smallest category of one breed with the smallest variety of another. The size of the off springs gradually decreases with the coming of each new generation thus gradually the correct size is acquired after a few generations.

The process can be compared to the Japanese art of Bonsai which requires dwarfing the tree. The teacup variety is arrived at in pretty much the same manner as dwarfism. There are however two main forms of the process of dwarfism when it comes to teacup Persian cats.

One of these ways is known as achondroplasia. This is the process in which the leading gene grows while mutating. As a consequence it has an effect on the hormonal balance in the cats body. This balance then controls the bone growth resulting in smaller overall bone structures. Although there are many different breeds of teacup cats the Persian is by far the most popular teacup cat in the world.

Click on banner to visit The Pet Warehouse

Chicago Firefighters Get New Tool to Revive Pets
BY STEVE METSCH SouthtownStar
Up to 150,000 pets die in fires every year, succumbing mostly to smoke inhalation. But, increasingly, fire departments across the country are using pet oxygen masks to revive the animals.

The Chicago Fire Department recently was given masks for pets and is planning to distribute them and train firefighters.

And just last week, the Matteson Fire Department was given two sets of the life-saving masks.

"We've had a few occasions where pets have been revived by guys using their own masks," Chicago Fire Department spokesman Larry Langford said.

"On the South Side, they brought a cat out that appeared dead. It looked like they were doing CPR on the street. And kitty came back!"

The cone-shaped plastic masks designed for animals fit snugly on snouts and can be used on dogs, cats and even some birds.

"This is fantastic. Occasionally, we will have a pet inside a building fire. The masks we have fit a person but don't fit too well on pets because of their snouts," Matteson Fire Chief Patrick Gericke said.

Firefighters should not be in danger of being bitten when helping animals "because they are so lethargic" from a lack of oxygen, shift Cmdr. Dan Kukulski said. Firefighters know all too well when an animal has plenty of air because it'll be more frisky, he said.

Gericke said the kits will offer peace of mind for pet owners.

"Pets really are members of your family. It's a loved one, and people want to make sure their pets are safely out [of a fire]," he said.

The masks were originally developed for use by veterinarians but have evolved into rescue tools over the last several years.

Protect Your Pet During Disasters
TheNewsStar.com
According to a recent Associated Press-Petside.com poll, most people don't have plans for protecting their animal companions in the event of a natural disaster evacuation. Please, don't wait for a disaster to strike. Make an emergency plan for your animals now.

Never leave animals behind in an evacuation. You may not be able to return home for weeks, leaving animals stranded without food or water.
Check with hotels, relatives and friends to see if you and your animals can stay there until the emergency is over.

Make sure animals are current on vaccinations and are wearing collars with identification tags. Pack leashes, bowls, towels, blankets, litter pans and litter, and at least a week's supply of food and medications.

If you must leave your companions behind, leave them indoors, with access to upper floors and at least 10 days' worth of dry food and water. Fill sinks and multiple containers with water. Place signs in windows and on the front door indicating how many and what kind of animals are inside—rescue teams may be able to save them.
TVs, couches and even homes are replaceable, but best friends aren't. Visit www.HelpingAnimals.com for more emergency-preparedness tips.

Lindsay Pollard-Post
Norfolk, Va.

AmeriMark Direct is a leading direct marketer of women's apparel, shoes, name-brand cosmetics, fragrances, jewelry, watches, accessories, and health-related merchandise.

Pets Are the New Children
By Samantha Healy - The Sunday Mail (Qld)
VETERINARY nurse Allison Andrewartha admits her pets are spoilt rotten. "They are my fur kids. I don't deny it," Ms Andrewartha, 37, said.

Her "kids" include Neava, a seven-year-old husky, 12-year-old pomeranian Darth Vader, her three cats Ghost, 7, Bastet, 5, and Bobsy, 3, three birds, a snake and a tank full of fish.

"I have never been overly interested in kids, so they are my kids," she said.

"They are spoilt and run circles around me - but I wouldn't have it any other way."

Ms Andrewartha, who lives in Crestmead, is part of a growing trend of animal lovers who treat their pets as children, the Sunday Mail reports.

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, pets are twice as common as children in Australian households, with 63 per cent of homes having a pet, compared with 33 per cent with children.

Elevating pets to human status is a bit scary but I love my 2 dogs to bits but they are still dogs. I have no kids so they get spoilt rotten they come on holidays with us and god he...

RSPCA community outreach co-ordinator Briony Gray, 25, is another dog lover who spares no expense to keep her pets happy.

When they are not sleeping in her bed, along with her partner Mark Style, 29, they have their own bedroom, complete with Sheridan sheets, down quilts, electric blankets, overflowing toy boxes and shelves full of books about dogs.

"They are my children. Each one of them has their own little personality. They are more like little humans to us," Ms Gray said.

Chihuahuas Pepe, 5, and Maxi, 2, and poodle cross Harry, 1, also go on "adventures with mum and dad", eat free-range meat and have birthday parties. Pepe even has her own Dogbook site, an application on Facebook.

"They depend on you so much for love and it brings me joy to make them happy," Ms Gray said.

"It probably sounds nuts but we love them so much."

Recent Galaxy Research, conducted for Purina pet food, found a strong trend towards "pet humanisation" - pet owners elevating their pets to human status.

The survey found that pet owners worried about everything from their pets' moods to whether they had friends and if they were getting adequate play time.

Social demographer Bernard Salt said the trend was likely to continue.

"I would expect, as a result of our ageing population, divorce and more people living the single life longer, the indulgence of companion animals will continue to grow," Mr Salt said.

"Indulging our pets makes us feel good and with more DINKS (double income, no kids) households, people are looking for an outlet for love," he said.

Bombay Cat
PugGal.com
Bombay Cats are also called parlor panthers. They are often described as exotic in appearance and are very similar to their wild namesakes. They are relatively small Cats, even they are adults and completed there growing period.

An adult male Bombay Cat’s weight is around 8 to 11 pounds and adult female’s weight is between 6 and 9 pounds. They can be recognized easily because they have a very silky black coated skin. They have very round heads and a heavy face. There eyes are rounded and wide similar to most other Cats.

They have very short coat lies to their body and require no grooming at all. Bombay Cats reach sexual maturity quickly but they grow slower than others. For example, a male Bombay Cat reaches to his full muscular development when it is 2 years old. They typically don’t require grooming because they have a short coat which stays close to their body. A brush can be used to keep their coat extra clean and shiny.

What do Bombay Cats eat is different from a cat’s behavior. Some cats only eat special cat food and other can eat whatever you provide them. Breeders use only food enriched with quality vitamins. Mostly they can eat freely without gaining weight but some becomes overweight. Bombay Cats can be distinguished into two broad categories. i.e;British Bombay Cats and American Bombay Cats. British Bombay Cats are the Asian black cats. They are of Burmese type. They have black coat, toes, copper to greenish eyes and black toes. American Bombay Cats were created in 1958 by breeding of American Shorthair and a Burmese in a hope of a cat resembling a panther.

It was a successful attempt and the American Bombay Cats looks like wild panther of India. American Bombay Cats also have sleek black coats, similar to British Bombay Cats, and often confused with British Bombay Cats because of the same reason. American Bombay Cats mostly have orange eyes and hence the way to differentiate between the two.

Click on banner to visit this site

Click here for "Dating Tips, Relationship Advice and Intimacy"

Click here for "Headlines You Should Know!"

Bathe Your Pet BirdTo Keep Them Healthy
PetAmours.com
Pet birds just like us need to take a bath. This helps keep them clean and remove excess oil on their feathers. Doing this on a regular basis also promotes good health as they are also affected from household air conditioning and heating.

To go for it, it is required that the pet bird is brought to a room that is warm and has no drafts. It is also best to do this early during the day so the bird will be able to dry itself before bedtime.

The materials you will using will be a heavy dish filled with one or two inches of water. The reason for this is to create an artificial puddle which is what birds in the wild go when they feel the need to cleanse themselves.

It is to be made sure that the water used for it is lukewarm or room temperature as cold water can chill them. Once inside the bowl, they can already bathe themselves.

Birds of bigger size will have much difficulty in taking proper bathing themselves in a bowl. This is why it is a good idea to bring the bird out of its cage, let it stand on the perch and then you run the water lightly on them.

One of the most ideal places in the house to do this is the bathroom or the kitchen. With the hose is in your hand, never spray the water on their face. Never make the mistake of saturating your pet bird’s feathers. Doing so can lead to a loss of body heat and flight impairment.

While bathing them inside a bowl or on a perch, take note that it was never mentioned to use shampoo or soap on them because water is enough to cleanse them. If cheap type of cleaning products is used it may remove the bird’s natural oils.

After giving your pet bird a bath, you can let them dry on their own or wipe them gently using a towel. If you are thinking to go for it, just be sure that you only rub in the direction of the feather growth. Never use a hair dryer because you could burn them.

Don’t forget to clean the sink or the tub with water and mild unscented soap after giving your pet bird a bath. This will ensure protection for you and your family who also use it when they brush their teeth or do the dishes.

Before you put the pet bird back in the cage, don’t forget to change the bird cage bedding. Most of the time, this gets wet from the splashing as the bird washes itself and you wouldn’t want bacteria to grow there that could get your bird sick.

Bathing your bed bird should be done once or twice a week. You can do this more often especially during the molten season because it helps remove itching. You just have to observe your bird to figure out if they prefer to take a bath.

Some birds do not like taking a bath. In such a situation, you must try to create interest for this in them so that they start enjoying it. One way is to get yourself wet and since they trust you, in time they will understand that it is perfectly alright.

A bath is always a refreshing experience and your pet bird should also have one every so often.

Holiday Safety Tips for Your Pets
The Nassau Guardian
The holiday season is fast approaching, and as pet owners we want to ensure that our furry friends are not overlooked during the hustle and bustle of the yuletide season. As we prepare for Christmas by decorating our houses and purchasing loads of gifts, cooking lots of food and inviting over lots of friends and family, our pets are at risk to potentially life-threatening dangers that can present around the house in the simplest of forms.

The holidays should be a happy time for you and your pet and should not elicit an emergency trip to your veterinarian. Here are some safety tips that you can implement around your home that will help to keep your pets out of harms way during the next few weeks.

Some of us love to express our holiday spirit by decorating the house with lots of lights, plants, tinsel and other objects that represent the meaning of Christmas. These simple decorations can prove deadly for an unsuspecting dog or cat.

Electrical cords from decorative lights or the Christmas tree can look like chew toys to your pets. Serious harm like electrical shock, burns or even death can occur when a pet chews on the objects when they are plugged in or turned on. Extra cords should be taped down to prevent ease of access by the pet and they should all be unplugged when the owner is out of the house.

Decorative plants like the poinsettia should be kept out of reach of your dog or cat as it can result in serious stomach upset and blistering in the mouth when ingested.

Tinsel and other strings and decorative ribbons can cause serious intestinal obstruction that usually requires surgery and is life-threatening, when they are ingested. Cats are especially tempted to eat items like tinsel therefore it should be hung very high and securely out of the pets' reach.

Ornaments can be especially problematic because they resemble toys to our pets so they work even harder to acquire them. All ornaments should be kept out of reach from pets not only because they can be choking hazards but also because when broken, glass ornaments can seriously injure a paw, mouth or other body part on your pet. If you are a pet owner with indoor pets, that may be more exposed to decorative elements and lighting, it may be best to restrict your pets' access to the more decorated parts of the house during the holiday season by using child safety gates or other barricades to ensure their safety.

The holiday season is a time when we love to cook and eat rich foods, which can pose a major problem to our pets. Their ingestion of table foods during the holiday season cannot only lead to mild upset stomach but to pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) a painful condition that causes vomiting and dehydration and may require hospitalization.

Chocolate, a common snack and gift during the holidays is fatal to dogs and cats and should be kept out of reach.

House guests should be discouraged from feeding animals food from their plates and should never leave their plates unattended if there is a pet in or around the house. A great tip for pet owners is to feed their pets right before a gathering to minimize the chances of that pet stealing or begging for holiday goodies. If you have an exceptionally greedy pet then sequestering them to a separate part of the house or yard until the function is over, and all food items have been discarded is the best alternative.

Holiday guests and other activities can be very stressful and even frightening to pets. It can also trigger illness and intestinal upset. Make sure pets have a safe, quiet place to retreat in your house. And make sure they are wearing current I.D. in case they escape out a door when guests come and go. If necessary, you may need to place your pet in a boarding kennel or take it to a friend's house until the end of a holiday event to minimize their level of stress.

Remember that changes in your pet's environment can be very stressful to them and they may exhibit unusual behavior because of it. Always plan ahead for your pets during the holiday season, to ensure a smooth and stress free occasion.

To have your pet questions answered, send an e-mail to purrfectpets1@gmail.com or call Dr. Bridgette Johnson at 364-8101.

Click here to visit The EZ Online Shopping Network of Stores

Unique Apartment Pets

2009-11-09T12:19:00.001-08:00

Ask Dog Lady: Absence Makes the Mutt Grow Fonder
wickedlocal.com
Dear Dog Lady,

As long as we’ve had our 4-year-old mutt (we got her at the pound when she was 5 months old), she always cries when my wife and I come home from work or from a 10-minute outing. She greets us like we’ve been gone for days. Why does she do this?

Mike

Dear Mike, get used to it. You and your wife are the Alpha and Omega for this dear dog. You’re all she knows — or wants to know.

However, you are not alone. Most dogs greet their cherished human guardians with unrestrained exuberance and irrational joy — as if the beloved humans were returning from a round-the-world trek by way of Outer Mongolia. Dog Lady can leave her dog for the time it takes to put the car in the garage and the terrier welcomes her back with such tail-wagging enthusiasm as befits a side of beef.

Dogs are ridiculous. Their unconditional love is constant and enduring, despite all odds and impediments. No wonder they are so endearing. Your 4-year-old mutt deserves your considerate tender care. She can’t help herself — even if she could.

Dear Dog Lady,

My mother has had a dog for two years. He is a miniature Maltese and 4 1/2 years old. He was neglected before she got him. He is a lap dog. My mother is retired. When she is home, Willie (the dog) is usually in her lap. He was a perfect dog for about a year and three months. This past spring, he started growling. We cannot pinpoint any particular reason. He seemed to start maybe after he went to the groomer, but we are not sure of that. He was put on 15g of Phenobarb twice a day and seemed to be better, but still growling occasionally. He can be good for weeks at a time, but then starts growling again. In the last week, he has gotten worse. He growls multiple times each day. Any suggestions?

Pam

Dear Pam, the lap is not a place to keep a dog entirely since “lap dog” is a quaint Victorian notion. Post-modern dogs need outdoor activity, exercise, and they should stand up on their own four feet. When a dog, no matter how small, is treated like a stuffed animal, the beast balks at simple things — such as going to the groomer, or cozying up to another dog or person. They become skittery and scared of things they shouldn’t worry about.

You never explain why wee Willie is on Phenobarbital. Anyway, Dog Lady is not a vet, nor does she play one on the pages of this newspaper. She does know the drug is commonly used for dogs with seizures. If the growling is connected with an illness, Dog Lady advises you to take Willie to a veterinarian for a complete examination. And encourage your mother to ease him off her lap and into the great outdoors. It will do both of them a world of good.

Dear Dog Lady,

Our new 1-year-old small cocker spaniel is a rescue dog who for the first four weeks we’ve had him has been a sweetheart. On neighborhood walks, he generally says hello very nicely to other dogs and people (a growl is rare). However, when we took him to the dog park, things did not go well. He behaved both scared and aggressive, jumping and growling, even on leash or while being held. What’s going wrong, and how can we help him socialize nicely?

Amy

Dear Amy, don’t hover. Your cocker is still exploring his new cosmos. When you take him to the dog park, allow him his freedom in small stretches until his behavior is predictably steady. For example, the cocker can accustom himself to the park by sniffing around the perimeter. If he starts to act aggressively with another dog, put him back on the leash and lead him away. But never lead him away for good. Every day, bring him back to the dog park to acculturate him by giving him freedom in incremental doses.

At a dog park, it is not such a great idea to keep your dog on a leash or in your arms. You must allow your dog the independence to learn how to behave with his peers. Naturally, you don’t want your darling fighting or baring teeth for real. However, it’s utterly normal if your pup “plays” with another dog by jumping and mouthing off. Dogs wrestle as if they were beating up each other, but each combatant always sends signals about how far to go. You must allow your puppy cocker to experience inter-species roughhousing because it’s part of his socialization. You shouldn’t squelch natural play but always monitor the activity.

Vet Advice: How Can I Stop My Dog's Nuisance Barking?
Independent.ie
I have a two-year-old red setter who had meningitis when she was only a couple of weeks old, but recovered fully. However, I'm finding she is doing a lot of nuisance barking!

I have tried barking collars and preventative barking systems but nothing seems to work.

She is kept in with other dogs and if she hears me out in the garden at all, she constantly barks.

Any suggestions how I can stop this, I'm sure the neighbours are as frustrated as myself about it?

Rachel

Natalia replies:

Dear Rachel,

Barking is a way of communication for dogs.

You have the normal, expected barking such as when there’s a stranger or intruder in the house.

Then there’s barking as a behavioural problem such as boredom, loneliness or mis-communication between owner and pet.

My advice for successfully addressing this problem is to recognise the triggers.

Does your dog bark when she’s left alone for too long? Is she getting enough exercise? Is she afraid of something he sees or hears (such as a neighbour mowing the lawn)? Maybe you could leave the TV on while you’re out, get her some toys or even ask a family member to drop in during the day when she’s alone?

In your case, your dog’s trigger seems to be separation anxiety.

For this, you will need some patience and training for both you and your pet, with a specialist dog trainer.

This will help you to understand ‘doggy’ language and correctly express what you want to tell your pet.

Many of the techniques are based on the dog receiving a reward for the action you want.

In your case the action would be “stop barking”.

For example, your dog barks, you need to make her stop; hold his muzzle or squirt with a water gun; this will startle her and make her stop barking.

When she stops barking, use the word “quiet”.

Immediately after saying that word, if the dog is quiet, reward her.

When she starts barking again, repeat the process.

Eventually she will learn to associate “quiet” with a reward and stop barking without the need of the “punishment” (water gun). Then your dog will stop barking with just the use of the word.

In practise, it’s not that simple and a dog trainer will show you many different techniques. It takes time but it’s a lifetime investment for you and your pet.

Click on banner to visit The Pet Warehouse

Pet Owners Should Practice Good Hygiene
The Reporter Staff and USA Today
Pet owners need not be alarmed because one cat has been diagnosed with swine flu, says local veterinarian Dr. Marty Greer.

An Iowa cat has become the first of its species to come down with a confirmed case of H1N1 flu, officials said Wednesday. The 13-year-old cat was brought to Iowa State University's veterinary college, where tests confirmed that it had the new flu virus, the state health department said.

Symptoms in the cat included lethargy, a loss of appetite and difficulty breathing. The cat has since recovered.

Two of the three people who live with the cat had the flu before the cat got sick, according to USA Today.

Greer, from Veterinary Village in Lomira, said one cat does not make an outbreak.
"It is certainly not mainstream to test cats at this point. Part of it may be that Ames, Iowa, is where the national animal disease control lab is located," she said.
The isolated case is no indication there is any major health threat to pets, said Greer, while emphasizing the importance of practicing basic hygiene.
"If your cat sneezes, wash your hands," she said.

To protect pets, some experts suggest taking the same precautions with animals in the family as with someone who has the swine flu, including wearing a mask, keeping some distance, and repeated hand washing.

Greer said that at this point, veterinarians need a lot more information before any conclusions can be drawn about H1N1 and pet populations.

"It's just too early to tell," she said.

What To Do About Litter Box Accidents
SimplePetCare.com
There is probably nothing more frustrating to a cat owner than litter box accidents. In fact, habitual litter box accidents are the number one reason why cat owners give their cats up to animal shelters. When your cat refuses to use the litter box, there is usually an underlying reason. Before you become exasperated by your cat’s inability to make it to the litter box, here are some common causes for this problem.

Litter Box Woes
One of the main reasons why a cat begins to refuse to use the litter box is because their own litter box is dirty. Many cats are extremely fussy about the condition of their litter box, while others will use it no matter how full it looks. If your cat has a litter box accident, the first place you should check is the litter box. Some pets prefer that their litter box cleaned out after each use. While this is time consuming for you, it may be a simple fix to this problem. You should start a daily routine of cleaning out your cat box and you may find that this solves your problem.

Another common problem related to the litter box is there are not enough litter boxes for the number of cats you have. For example, if you have four cats in your home, and you should have at least one litter box per cat. Cats like to have their own space, and this is especially true when it comes to their litter box. In fact, many veterinarians recommend that even if you have only one cat, you should have at least two litter boxes.

In addition, when it comes to litter box accidents, look at the type of litter you are using and the size and shape of the litter box. If you have a tray litter box without a lid, maybe your cat would feel more secure in a closed box. If you have an older cat, or a young kitten, you cat may have a difficult time getting in and out of a closed top box. Watch your cat carefully when he or she uses the litter box. If you find that, they are having a difficult time getting in and out of the litter box and consider getting a different box. Also, look at the type of litter you use. Your cat may be extremely fussy about the smell or texture of the litter. Many people preferred using the scoop away litter; however, many cats will not use this type of litter, because it sticks in the paws. You may also find that the litter you use causes a lot of dust that is disagreeable to your cat.

Health Issues
Your cat may be refusing to use the litter box, because of health related issues. If you have tried all the above tips and nothing seems to be working, then it is time to visit your veterinarian. Cats that have bladder problems, urinary tract infections, kidney failure and diabetes are more prone to litter box accidents than healthy cats. You need to take your cat to the vet and have a thorough health exam performed to find out if your cat is suffering around an ailment. If this is the case, your veterinarian can prescribe medication to help your cat.

Habit and Your Cat’s Territory
If your cat has been ill or have stopped using the litter box for any of reason, you may find that your cat returns to their old ways out of habit. It is extremely important that when your cat has a litter box accident, that you clean the area thoroughly to get rid of any odors that may remain. In addition, your cat may have not stopped using the litter box at all but instead, your cat is marking his or her territory. This is especially common in multi-cat households or when you bring in new pet into the home. This is also more common in males than females. Even male cats that are neutered can mark their territory by spraying urine.

When you determine why your cat is having litter box accidents, you can find a solution. It takes time and patience; however, this is much more preferable than getting rid of your cat.

AmeriMark Direct is a leading direct marketer of women's apparel, shoes, name-brand cosmetics, fragrances, jewelry, watches, accessories, and health-related merchandise.

Dangerous Foods for the Family Pet
Kare11.com
With the holidays coming up, there's a good chance the family pet with get a taste of something it shouldn't. Whether they're feasting on table scraps or digging through the trash, it's important to watch what your pet is sinking its teeth into.

Friday morning on KARE 11 First Edition, Deb Schneider, owner of AllBreed Obedience talked about potentially dangerous foods for your pets.

Schneider says it's important for everyone to keep their emergency vet's phone number handy as well as knowing where they're located. Pets always seem to get sick on weekends and holidays.

With the holidays coming, it means your dog might either get into or be given foods that are bad for them. Be sure to keep a sharp eye out on what folks are giving your dog during holiday partys.

One of the worse things you can give to a dog is alcohol, Schneider says it can cause coma, even death. Caffeine is also bad for dogs, it can affect the heart and nervous system.

It's also important to make sure your dog doesn't get a hold of cooked bones from fish, poultry, beef or other sources. Schneider says the bones can cause obstructions. Also, fat trimmings can cause pancreatitis.

Other foods your dog should avoid, according to Schneider, include grapes and raisins, which contain unknown toxins that can damage the kidneys. Macadamia nuts are also bad, they can affect the digestive and nervous system. And onions, they're bad because they can cause animia.

Lastly, and Schneider says this is a big no-non, do not give your dog Xyitol. That's the artificial sweetner which is in nearly all our surgar free gums and candy. It is very toxic to dogs and can liver failure quickly.

Our Old Pet Friends Deserve Special Treatment
By KRISTEN LEVINE TBO.com

If you've cared for an elderly dog or cat, you know it's a bittersweet labor of love.
It seems unfair that pets, one of life's greatest gifts to people, are with us for only a small fraction of our lifetime. We all get the short end of the stick on that deal.

Your pet's senior status can sneak up on you. One day you're watching that energetic puppy or kitten romp and play and, before you know it, several years have passed and your childlike friend begins to slow down.

When your pet reaches senior status, take this golden opportunity to give it the best years of its life. Remember, it devoted its life to being your most loyal, trusted companion.

"Generally speaking, dogs and cats attain senior status at about age 7," says veterinarian James D. Lutz of Largo Veterinary Hospital. "Weight, lifestyle and size of your pet are all factors that can speed or slow down the aging process."

Rely on your own observation and the advice of your veterinarian to help you identify when your pet has begun maturing so that you can start to meet its special needs.

Senior wellness checkups may be the most important thing you can do for your aging friend. The American Animal Hospital Association recommends healthy senior dogs and cats visit the veterinarian every six months for a complete exam and lab work.

"As your pet gets older, we're a lot more interested in checking for possible metabolic diseases such as diabetes and thyroid," Lutz says. "And checking early for clues to cancer is very important."

When your pet is healthy, lab tests provide baseline values that can help the vet figure out what's wrong when your pet is sick. And subtle changes in test results, even in the outwardly healthy animal, may signal the presence of an underlying disease.

Dogs and cats should get lab work every year at middle age. During the senior years, healthy animals need a complete blood count, urinalysis, blood chemistry panel and parasite evaluation every six months.

Watch for changes

Older pets are slower pets. You may find yours reacts more slowly to sights and sounds. This loss of sensory perception is a slow, progressive process. The best remedy is to keep your pet's body and mind active.

Use playtime, exercise and training at a slower pace than usual. Pets still need quality time in terms of attention and exercise, but will likely prefer quiet walks and long naps to active play.

"Keep an eye on your pet's gait and posture to identify potential orthopedic problems," suggests Lutz. "And watch for mentation changes (mental awareness) and alterations in activity."

Remember, dietary needs change, too. Talk to your veterinarian about lower-calorie formulas with antioxidants and vitamin supplements. It's critical to avoid obesity, which can speed up aging, so no more rich foods and table scraps!

Thanks to advances in veterinary medicine, diagnostics and diet, our pets can live longer, healthier lives. But since they can't tell us how they're feeling, it's important that you, as a pet parent, take a proactive approach to their health, particularly as they age.

One day you'll come face to face with a pair of wise, knowing eyes with a gray muzzle or whiskers. When the day comes, take the opportunity to repay them with love, understanding and the best health care you can provide.

Adopt a senior pet

November is celebrated by animal shelters nationwide as Adopt a Senior Dog Month. In the sunset of 2009, it's a great time to promote the benefits of an older pet in the sunset season of their lives.

Senior pets easily bond with new people, often have excellent manners, are housebroken and know the basic rules of the house. Size, temperament and personality are already established. You also may have advance knowledge of any behavior or health issues.

Senior pets need less supervision. They understand human behavior and probably know what is expected of them in the home. Physical demands are low.

Given the slower pace of most pets in their golden years, a senior person might be the best match. The calm, quiet demeanor and light exercise needs of an older pet may fit a mature person's lifestyle perfectly.

Blessed is the person who has earned the love of an old dog.
- Sydney Jeanne Seward

Write to pet-lifestyle expert Kristen Levine at Fetching Communications, P.O. Box 222, Tarpon Springs FL 34688; or e-mail kristen@fetchingcommunications.com

Click on banner to visit this site

Click here for "Dating Tips, Relationship Advice and Intimacy"

Click here for "Headlines You Should Know!"

Training Your Pet With Tones
By Juanito M Chavez
A majority of people in the United States and elsewhere in the world enjoy taking care of pets. Having a cat or a dog can be quite a large responsibility, especially when you find that that animal does not want to listen or obey. For some owners this has been an ongoing issue for many years. While yet others have just purchased or adopted their new pet to find that it has bad habits or does not obey.

Training a pet requires patience and skill in order to be successful. This skill can easily be obtained by learning and understanding how the mind of your pet works. For most animals making their owner happy has a great deal to do with how happy they are. This means a pet not only understands body language, but understands by the tone of voice if a person is happy or unhappy.

So if your pet is not obeying or has habits that you would like to see broken, one of the best ways to help improve the situation is by training your animal with your voice. When you raise your voice in an angry fashion to your pet it understands that you are unhappy with its actions. This is a great way of training an animal well ahead of time before it even gets into trouble. By simply bringing your animal to a room or location where you do not wish it to reside, you can raise your voice in a stern manner to let it know it is not welcomed in that area.

When your pet does something that you wanted to do, it is good to reinforce that by a positive sounding voice. This lets your pet know that you are not only happy with its action at that moment, but that by continuing to perform that action that the pet itself can be happy too. Once again this goes back to the notion that pets are happy when their owners are happy with them.

Remember to that animals can read body language very well. So a combination of not only the tone of your voice, but the look on your face will also have an effect in your pets understanding of you. The more you use voice and expression to train your pet the better it will become at mastering good habits which you have reinforced.

Juanito M Chavez is a pet lover and writer of all things animals including problems with pets health such as cat worms and cat diabetes. He also writes about how to properly train a pet and reinforce an owners love for their cats and dogs through positive mental reinforcement.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Juanito_M_Chavez

Top 3 Unique Apartment Pets
By Pauline Go
There is nothing better than having a playful pet around you, even if you live in an apartment. Not only will the pet lighten up your life, it will be a good companion. Although people usually opt for dogs or cats as pets, you can go for exotic and unique pets that can live with you in your apartment.

Here are the top unique apartment pets that you can think about if you are planning on having a pet:

Pot-bellied pigs: While they can be slightly destructive at time, pot-bellied pigs are easier to train than dogs. Not only are the playful and caring, they are also odor free and above all, they do not bark! They are highly intelligent and just love food. So, make sure you securely lock up all cupboards containing food items, even your rubbish bin. Of course, they require a lot of commitment and can be expensive to own, but they make wonderful pets.

Hedgehogs: The hedgehog is not a very social animal, but a tamed one can be friendly. It has a lifespan of 4 to 6 years and you can take care of it very easily. They thrive quite well on high quality cat food. You might face a challenge getting the hedgehog to get used to you handling it, but the good thing is that they do not require too much attention and are more than willing to keep themselves entertained.

Chinchillas: If you end up owning a Chinchilla from a young age, you can be sure that it will bond very closely with you. The lifespan of this cute cuddly animal is around 15 years, and they are extremely playful and active. Make sure you have a spacious cage and lots of toys for your Chinchilla. In addition, have a dust bathe ready for the animal as it bathes in dust to keep its fur shiny and smooth.

Of course, before getting a pet, make sure you check with your apartment manager what the regulations and policies are about owning a pet.

About Author:
Pauline Go is an online leading expert in the real estate industry. She also offers top quality articles like :
Apartment Listing, Smartest Breeds of Dogs

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Pauline_Go

Our Deepest Condolences
Pet-Memorial-Urns-Online.com

Whether you have already lost your pet or are preparing for the loss, let us be one of the first to offer our sympathies during this difficult time and extend our loss of pet condolences. We hope we can help you find the perfect pet memorial urn online, so that you will have a special final resting place for your beloved pet and companion.

Pet Memorial Urns Online was also started to be an informational resource for those seeking advice or help for dealing with the loss of their pet because there are so few complete resources available. Using the content links located on the left you can quickly jump to each of our sections, or you can read a summary of the contents of our site below.

Dealing With The Loss Of Your Pet
As a society we know that with all life comes death, it is inevitable. When the death that occurs is a spouse, family member or close friend it is natural to feel sorrow, express grief, and expect family and friends to provide understanding and comfort. The same does not always hold true if the death that has occurred is that of a pet. You as an owner may experience the same feelings of loss, but encounter less support dealing with the loss of your pet in some instances because others might not understand how important the pet really was. People love their pets and some even consider them immediate members of the family, which depending on the type of animal, may have been for years.

Pets provide companionship, acceptance, emotional support, and unconditional love during the years they share with you. If you understand and accept the bond between pets and owner, you can take the first steps toward dealing with the loss of your pet by knowing that it is okay to grieve when a pet dies. The next step is to understand how you grieve and find ways to cope with the loss so it can bring you closer to the day when the memories of your pet bring happy thoughts instead of tears of sorrow.

Children And Pet Death
When the loss of a family pet occurs with children involved, it is important to remember that this loss is probably one of the child's first experience with death and as such should be handled with great care as they can be far more sensitive than an adult would be. With children and pet death the child may blame themselves, the parents, or even the veterinarian for not saving the pet. They may feel guilty, depressed, and frightened that others they love may be taken from them.

Never try to protect your child by saying the pet ran away because honesty is important for their future development. This may cause your child to expect the pet to return or even wonder what they did to make it leave. This will extend the grief period even longer than usual, or even instill a feeling of parental betrayal if they do discover the truth. It will also make it harder for a child to accept a new pet in the future, because they may believe that loving a new pet would be a betrayal to their old friend.

If you had to put the pet to sleep, make sure your child understands the difference between ordinary sleep and death, or you risk the child themselves being fearful of going to sleep and not waking up. Make it clear that the pet will not come back or wake up, but that the pet is happy and free of pain.

Expressing your own grief with your child will reassure them that feeling sadness at this time is okay and help them work through their own feelings.

Pet Loss And Grief Recovery
Finding a way to say goodbye and remember your pet is also important for yourself and your family during the grieving process, and there a number of things that you can do to honor their memory.

Write About Your Memories And Shared Experiences. Compose a eulogy or elegy about what made your deceased pet special to each family member. You can then read it at a special memorial service or submit it to us to be posted within our Online Pet Memorials section, which is also featured on the main page of Pet Memorial Urns Online.

Put Together An Album Of Memories. Creating a photo album, scrapbook, or collage of your pet allows you to focus more so on the good times and can be very therapeutic for dealing with the grief and loss.

Plant A Living Memorial. Let others know how much your pet was loved and cared for as well as help restore greenspace by planting a tree in their memory.
Provide A Special Place For Your Pet's Ashes. Keep the ashes of your pet in a beautiful pet urn or within pet keepsake jewelry. You can also get weatherproof pet cremation urns if you intend to bury your pet in a special place on your property.
Hold A Memorial Service. One of the most important steps in grief recovery is to hold a memorial service so that you or your family can say goodbye to your pet. This is also the perfect time to share the memories you wrote about or the album you put together.

Introducing A New Pet Into The Family
After the grieving process is over and enough time has passed, pet owners usually ponder whether or not they should get a new pet, especially if children are involved or how to go about introducing a new pet into the family. It is important to remember that children need more time to adjust to the loss because getting a new pet too soon can cause feelings of disloyalty or guilt and create problems in bonding with the new pet. Depending on the age of the child, they may also think that if something were to happen to them, they would soon be forgotten and a replacement found. They need to understand that friendships cannot be immediately replaced. Another important thing to remember is that you are not replacing your old pet, and as such you should avoid getting a look-a-like or the exact same breed.

A new pet should only be introduced when everyone in the family is ready to move forward and build another new long lasting bond with a new friend and member of the family. If it was a family pet, plan an outing to a local pet store, or even animal shelter to pick out your new pet together. You will be surprised at how this as well helps even further with the grieving process and moving on.

Sincerely,

Pet Memorial Urns Online Staff

Click here to visit The EZ Online Shopping Network of Stores

Frequently Asked Dog Training Questions

2009-11-07T23:12:00.000-08:00

Kid Tips: Kids, Go Read to Your Dog
By Tom McMahon - Contra Costa Times
PETTING A DOG is soothing for both giver and receiver. It can lower your heart rate, calm you down, improve your mood and reduce stress. Researchers call it the "pet effect." It's no wonder that dogs "volunteer" in assisted living and nursing homes, children's hospitals, libraries and schools.

The latest is the dog listener. "The philosophy is simple," says Rachel Rodriguez in a recent CNN article. "Children who are just learning to read often feel judged or intimidated by classmates and adults. But reading to a dog isn't so scary. It won't judge, it won't get impatient, it won't laugh or correct if the child makes a mistake. In a nutshell, dogs are simply excellent listeners. And for shy kids or slow readers, that can make all the difference." The dogs also can provide confidence.

Although some dogs are trained as a registered therapy dog, your own dog could become your child's listener. Help them find a comfortable spot together. Let your child know that some dogs can still hear you when their eyes are closed. Happy reading with Fido!

Pets adjust to newborns: Household pets can have just as much difficulty adjusting to a new baby in their home as an older sibling does. Parents can help a dog or cat adjust to a new baby by placing a blanket that has the baby's smell on it in the pet's sleeping area, preferably a day before the baby comes home. When the baby arrives home, allow the pet to gently sniff the baby as you're holding him carefully in your arms. Also, make an effort to give your pet some quality attention in the presence of the baby, thereby creating some positive associations between the pet and baby. — P.F., Minneapolis

Pet Pause: Hunting Safety with Your Pet
By Natalie Sparacio - waow.com

WAKE UP WISCONSIN (WAOW)-- Before you head out on the hunting trail this season, there are some safety tips to keep in mind for your hunting dog.
Dolores Glytas, from Wisconsin Federated, joined us on Wake Up Wisconsin with tips on how to stay safe this season.

Just like normal training, a dog should be trained as a puppy to follow commands. Your dog should at the very least respond to "come", "sit", and "stay" for their safety.

Make sure you put blaze orange on your pet as well.

If you're a non-hunter, and if your dog goes around in the woods, make sure they're wearing blaze orange as well.

Before you go hunting with your dog, make sure you have a first aid kit available.

If an accident happens, stay calm and call your vet as soon as possible. Check for a heart beat, take objects out of the dog's mouth and place the dog on its left side and cover your pet with a blanket.

Click on banner to visit The Pet Warehouse

Protect Your Pets from the Pound
By: Donald Lee
Pets are people, too. At least, that's the way they should be treated by their owners. The sad reality, though, is that a lot people own pets when they're really not ready to care properly for their little furry friends. Or they just don't know how to love, clean, and treat a cat, dog, or other animal the right and humane way. What happens to these poor animals? Many end up in shelters, lost and unwanted-to the tune of 6 to 8 million every year according to the Humane Society. At least half of those end up being "put to sleep," to put it nicely.

When they first start out looking to buy a pet, everyone says that they aren't like that, that they won't have their pet end up caged in a pound somewhere. If you want to be one of the people who says this and means it, read on. Your commitment shows you are ready to learn how to own a pet. Once you are trained in the following pet ownership basics, then you can take the next step and find the perfect pet for you.

But before you meet this furry companion, take these following tips to heart:

Go down the list of required health-care needs. This is especially important for puppies and kittens, who need an arsenal of vaccinations when they're little. But even older pets require regular checkups and the occasional medication (such as for heartworms for dogs). Before you get a pet, locate a trusted veterinarian in your neighborhood and go over all of your soon-to-be pet's health needs.

Neuter, neuter, neuter. Point blank, this is one of the most crucial things you can do to protect your pet's health. Remember that number above from the Humane Society (6 to 8 million pets in cages)? Now consider that as many as 100 million other animals, mostly cats, live on the streets. Why? Their mommies and daddies weren't neutered.

Look into insurance. Believe it or not, pet health insurance is all the craze in employer benefits packages. That's because it comes in very handy nowadays, considering the importance of pet health and how pet pills and operations seem to be getting just as pricy as people medicine. Even if you don't get pet insurance through work, look into a package on your own. While you're at it, consider third-party liability insurance, too, especially for instances such as dog bites.

Tabulate the grocery tab. Perhaps the number one thing people don't realize when getting a pet is how expensive their food can be. Figure out just how much your pet will eat before you get it, planning always to provide your critter more than enough in proper and balanced meals. Ask yourself, "Can I afford this?"

Pour attention and love on your pet. Why even bother having a pet if you don't plan to give it affection? That's the whole point of keeping a critter around, right? So when your little guy (or girl) greets you at the door after work, or wants to snuggle in your lap in front of the TV, don't push them away. Award them for their faithfulness.

Groom your pet. Grooming counts toward that love and attention requirement, but it also is necessary for the animal's health as well. Depending on your type of animal, grooming could involve a bath, the occasional haircut, regular hair brushing, tooth exams, and paw inspection.

Hop, skip, and a jump. Animals love exercise. Whether they're normally cooped up in a cage, an apartment, or, well, a coop, be sure to free them from these confines as often as possible. Dogs don't just like to take walks to go potty. Cats don't like to tear up and down furniture just to shred it. They have energy to burn, and will be better off for it.

Teach your pet proper bathroom etiquette. Speaking of going potty, it is essential to train your pet at the earliest possible age to do so properly. Of course, this doesn't mean training them to put down the lid when they're done (although supposedly rabbits can be taught to do so!). But it does mean getting a cat to use a kitty litter box, for instance, or a dog to wait until it's outside. If you don't know how to train them, learn before you own them. Ask your parents or friends, read a book, visit a chat room, or talk with the vet.

Consider a proper place of higher learning. When training becomes an issue, whether it's for potty training or how-not-to-chew-up-your-shoes training, consider obedience school. It is not a mark of shame for either you or your pet. In fact, it may be just what your fur ball needs to live the happiest, safest, and healthiest life possible.

To put it bluntly, if you can't follow these rules, you shouldn't own a pet. Buy a plant instead. However, if you're up to the task-and really, most people are-your rewards will be immense. For a little bit of responsibility, time, and money on your part, you and your family will get a lifetime of love and unconditional adoration.

Author Bio
Donald Lee is the public relations manager for Buysellcommunity.com. Buysellcommunity provides free classified listing services. Buy, Sell and trade: auto, computers, household items, real estate, pets and much more. For global and localized classifieds, please visit http://www.buysellcommunity.com - Free Buy & Sell Classifieds

Article Source: http://www.ArticleGeek.com - Free Website Content

For the Best Pets Look to the Unusual
By: Bob Benson
If you're searching for really terrific pets, you may want to take a little walk into the unusual. While dogs and cats - arguably the two most common and beloved pets - are good choices, there are some other animals out there that may very well be better suited to your lifestyle.

To find the perfect pet, start by examining your reasons for wanting to take this step. That reason is very important. For example, if you're looking for companionship, a turtle probably isn't the best answer. But if you have a child and you're looking for a pet to help teach responsibility, a turtle may be just what you need. Here are some other pets that may not have immediately come to mind.

Gerbils, hamsters and mice
Yes, they're rodents and that may be an immediate turn-off for some people, but these little guys can be really good pets for several reasons. They don't take up much room, they don't eat much and they're fairly easy to care for. On the downside, they also tend to have shorter life spans than some other animals, meaning the kids (and adults) who become attached to them face the heartbreak of losing their pet sooner. Remember that they still take care, even though they're very small. Cages can become very smelly if not cleaned regularly.

Hermit crabs
These are a recent hit with many people and you'll find that hermit crabs are readily available in malls and pet stores. They're not cuddly and they're very shy, but there are some positive points. If handled carefully and often, they can become quite friendly. Children can learn a lot from watching them drink, burrow and change shells. Care is minimal and the biggest routine chore is probably keeping the sponges wet (hermit crabs drink from a sponge).

Prairie dogs
Quite a few people have discovered that these furry little guys make great indoor pets. They're inquisitive and most have very unique personalities. If raised in captivity, a prairie dog will typically be happy to remain inside with no attempts at escape. They can be litter box trained and many families report that their prairie dogs have free roam of the house. The downsides include the fact that these animals like to chew. If trained well, they'll chew only in designated places, but furniture and clothing can become casualties of their need to gnaw. Remember, they're wild animals and you should be careful of your source to be sure you have a healthy animal.

There are plenty more options that you may not have considered. If you're looking for great pets, don't immediately assume that a cat or dog are your only choices.

Author Bio
Bob Benson is the founder of Pets online. We provide information on Owning a pet.

AmeriMark Direct is a leading direct marketer of women's apparel, shoes, name-brand cosmetics, fragrances, jewelry, watches, accessories, and health-related merchandise.

Parasites That Love Your Dog
By: Lee Dobbins
Your dog might not love them, but there are many common parasites that love your dog. If your dog is not properly cared for he can become infested with any of these pests and develop illness or life threatening disease.

Luckily, there are many ways to ward off and get rid of parasites which are as simple as taking pills or using drops. With proper care and prevention, your dog will be generally free and safe from parasites and diseases but if you do notice your dog acting strangly, not eating or scratching too much, it's best to get him to the vet right away.

Some common parasites that can take up residence on your dog include:

Ticks
We all know fido gets fleas and ticks in the summer, but ticks can pose more serious problems than due to diseases like Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, and Lyme disease. You should check your dog for ticks religiously especially if he spends a lot of time outdoors. Tweezers can be used to remove ticks one by one. If you do not know how to remove ticks properly and carefully, ask your vet first. If you do know how, put them in a can with soap and water after removal.

Fleas
These are the most common external parasites and can cause the dog to continuously scratch various parts of the body. It may get so bad that your dog loses fur in the infested areas. Ask your veterinarian to put your pet on a good flea-control program and be aware that fleas could become resistant to some products over time.

Lice
Lice is less common than fleas but can affect dogs. Your vet will have several treatments that can easily get rid of lice in dogs.

Heartworm
Caused by mosquito bites, heartworm resides in your dogs heart and blood vessels. A dog infected by heartworms looks dull and may even have a chronic cough. There are many heartworm medications that can prevent your dog from developing this disease - ask your vet which one is best for your pet.

Hookworm
Hookworms can cause anemia an loss of appetite and can be given by the mother dog to a puppy during the nursing period or even before birth.

Tapeworm
A dog can get tapeworm from swallowing larvae-laden fleas. There are not many symptoms with tapeworm but you might see rice-like pieces in your dogs stools. This is one good reason to always bring a stool sample to your vet when you bring your pet in for a yearly checkup.

Roundworm
Roundworms cause pneumonia, diarrhea, dehydration, stunted growth, and vomiting. A dog with roundworm may have a pot belly.

Whipworm
A dog infected with whipworms may have diarrhea and other ailments like, stool mucus, and serious bowel inflammation. Extreme weight loss is also a symptom caused by whipworms.

Although our dog can attract any of these parasites, most of them can be easily taken care of. Proper care and maintenance and routine visits to the vet will help keep your dog happy, healthy and parasite free.

Author Bio
Lee Dobbins writes for Epet Pet Center where you can find more on how to keep your pet healthy and happy.

Article Source: http://www.ArticleGeek.com - Free Website Content

Be Your Dog's Best Friend
By: Jane Earley
To have a really great relationship with your pet dog, you need to work on that relationship constantly. It's not enough to build a few foundations and expect your relationship to blossom with little or no extra effort. Time spent reinforcing the bond between you and your dog is time well spent, and will enrich your relatonship providing you both with the fun and rewards that dog ownership brings.

Make sure that you spend quality time with your dog. As dog owners we are all aware of the need to exercise and train your dog. The time spent on these activities will vary according to your dogs needs, however, this time should be rewarding and enjoyable for your dog. When walking with your dog, make sure that you talk and interact with your dog. Play a game of fetch or chase. All dogs love to chase, and taking an active role in this game will not only keep you fit, but will help you engage with your dog in a fun and simple way.

Be animated when you communicate with your dog. During the day, your dog will hear you converse with many different people, either on the phone or in person, and will generally filter out most of the conversation. With your tone of voice you can communicate to your dog that something is interesting or fun, or that something is undesirable or naughty. Dogs have extremely sensitive hearing and are very much attuned to your moods and tone of voice, use this to your advantage. Attract your dogs attention by using a friendly voice that is slightly higher pitched than your normal speaking voice.

Never forget the importance of physical contact. When your dog is near, make the effort to stroke their head or neck and talk in a soothing voice. If you are in the park, and your dog bounds over to you, make a fuss of them, make being near you a rewarding experience for your dog. This will not only reinforce the bond you and your dog have, but it will also aid recall. If you have problems recalling your dog, practice this when they are off the lead. Several times during the walk, call your dog to you and reward them for coming with a treat or a cuddle, and then let them carry on with what they were doing. If you only recall your dog when they are naughty or to put them on the lead, your dog will associate punishment or the end of the walk with coming when called. If you have been out, greet your dog properly when your return - being away from you is never enjoyable for your dog. Make the time to cuddle or play a quick game to celebrate your return. This is very natural for dogs, they will do this to other dogs they know and like, so this behaviour is something they understand.

Ask yourself, if you were your dog, would you enjoy the time you spend together. Try to be fun for your dog. We all have busy days, bad days and sad days, but your dog relies upon you to provide the love and support it needs, and will give you loyalty and friendship in return. Your dog doesn't need or understand your stress, but they are affected by it. On a bad day, make a point of having a game or cuddling with your dog, and you'll probably find it helps you too.

Author Bio
About the Author - Jane Earley Dog owner and online pet shop owner. www.sparkysden.co.uk

Click on banner to visit this site

Click here for "Dating Tips, Relationship Advice and Intimacy"

Click here for "Headlines You Should Know!"

Letting Your Dog Choose His Own Food
By: Ethan K. Roberts
Spend time at any pet store and the choice of dog foods to feed your dog is in abundance. How do you know which to choose and which is good for your dog? The answer to that is simply, you do not, let your dog choose. Although there are some basics that are recommended.

If you have purchased your dog from a breeder, ask the breeder what they recommend to feed your new pet. A good breeder should be able to tell you what has worked best for their dogs. This is a good place to start. However, if you have adopted your new dog, then it will be up to you to figure out what is good for your dog and what is not. The dog will certainly help you in determining the right food for him.

Always read the labels on a dog food package. What you want to look at is the first ingredient. You do not want to see meat meal, this can be anything within the food including road kill. Chicken Meal or Lamb Meal is a good start. You also always want to see the word meal; whole meat without the Meal is mostly water. Most nutritionists prefer chicken based dog foods as they are easier to digest.

You may see corn or a type of corn product in the dog food. Corn is a protein source the dog food makers use to keep the price reasonable. Some dogs like corn and others do not. If you see your dog start itching, licking his feet, scooting his butt, or getting frequent ear infections, this could indicate a lack of tolerance for corn. Beware of wheat in a food. Wheat tends to be more of an irritant in dogs than corn is.

You need to inspect the label for the sentence "AAFCO feeding trials confirm that (dog food brand) is complete and balanced for adult dogs or all life stages". This sentence alone will tell you that the dog food was fed to any number of dogs and was determined to meet the nutritional needs for all life stages of a dog.

When it comes to feeding your dog there are certain guidelines that should be followed depending on the age of your dog. For instance, puppies should be fed more regularly than adult dogs. Puppies should be fed as often as four times per day and with a quality dog food geared towards puppies specifically. Adult dogs should be fed twice a day.

In general, feed puppies and adult dogs separately so you can be sure the amount they are eating each time and to prevent fighting. Set a feeding schedule for your dog, but not one to where they become anxious if you happen to be late. It is a good idea to teach your dog to sit before placing the dog food in the bowl; this will prevent them from jumping to get the food.

Nutritionists suggest only allowing your dog 15 to 20 minutes to eat then removing and disposing of the remainder.

Author Bio:
Ethan K. Roberts writes about several different subjects not limited to wellness dog foods.

Article Source: http://www.ArticleGeek.com - Free Website Content

Dog Training: Frequently Asked Questions
By: Susie Aga
I frequently get asked the same questions by different clients all the time. Here are the questions and the solutions.

Why won't my dog come to me when I call them?
First of dogs with out a fenced in yard are the harder to teach come to, because they do not have enough time off leash and will not give that up when they are loose. If you give your dog ample exercise off leash in an enclosed park or some other area on a regular basis then it is no big deal for them to come to you when they are loose because they are not giving anything up. Also you MUST be exciting no one wants a boring dog and no dog wants a boring owner. I can teach you 3 tools that will get your dog to come to you first their name means come to me, then "come" as an emergencies command and then I have a secret weapon that is fool proof.

Why does my dog tear up paper, eat Kleenex and sticks?
When dogs tear things apart or eat strange things it usually an instinctual behavior passed down from the wolves. Most of the time it comes from when wolves would hunt for food and tearing the meat off the bone is satiating to them. Kleenex eating is a mystery to my vet and myself. I think it just tastes good. A lot of dogs will sit down and eat a whole toilet paper roll or Kleenex box. If your dog does this the best advice I can give is to keep these things out of reach. If they can't reach it they can't chew or eat it!

How to get rid of urine smells in carpet?
There are many different products out there; personally I have not found one that is 100% effective. Natures Miracle seems to have a good reputation. There are many home remedies like a dilution of vinegar and water to get the smell out but this solution can also stain many surfaces and carpets so do a small test site first and wait 3-4 days to see if the color changes. The professional carpet cleaners sometimes guarantee to get the urine smell out of surfaces, make sure so you're not wasting your money on another useless method.

Why should I get my dog spayed or neutered?
The number one reason is that there are more than 5000 homeless dogs in the metro Atlanta area alone not to mention the surrounding counties. There are some dogs prone to testicular and other forms of cancer by neutering/spaying them you could be saving there life in the future. Dogs that are spayed/ neutered seem to have less behavior problems then dogs that are in tact. The health of the dogs is also better and you will have fewer visits to the veterinarian.

Where should I get a dog from? A breeder, a pet store, or rescue group?
If you get your dog from a rescue group (Golden Retriever rescue / Lab etc.) you can get the breed you are looking for and save a life. The humane societies and shelters always have a lot to choose from. If you must go to a breeder or pet store do some back ground checking and make sure you are not buying from a puppy mill.

What are some poisonous things I should be aware of around my house and yard?
Some command foods that are poison to dogs are chocolate, grapes and almonds. Just a few teaspoons of anti freeze can kill a dog in the matter of hours. Pesticides can be very harmful to animals as well rat poisons, bug repellents and moth ball. Some house plants such as poinsettias and mistletoe, azaleas and tulip bulbs are also poisonous.

Author Bio
Susie Aga, Atlanta Dog Trainer Susie is a Certified Canine Behavior & Training Specialist and a member in good standing with the Association of Pet Dog Trainers. She has four rescue dogs and donates much of her time and services to Rescue Organizations and hosts The Animal Hour Radio Show which can be heard through her site.

Article Source: http://www.ArticleGeek.com - Free Website Content

Click here to visit The EZ Online Shopping Network of Stores

How to Choose the Right Vet

2009-11-05T22:29:00.001-08:00

Hints From Heloise
Washington Post
New Code for Pets

Dear Heloise: Thank you for your recommendations about arranging for pet care in the event of a PERSONAL EMERGENCY. As someone who now lives alone with two dogs and a cat, I've often wondered how my housemates would be cared for in the event that I'm stricken while away from home.

I'm fortunate to have a neighbor who cares for the pets when I'm away for extended periods. But how would anyone know to contact him if I'm incapacitated or worse?

I have a hint I'd like to pass on. Most of us are aware of the importance of the ICE code (it stands for "In Case of Emergency" -- Heloise) on our cell phones. What do you think of promulgating a similar EPC code ("Emergency Pet Care") for our phones? If that code were publicized and put into practice, our helpful neighbors could be contacted and asked to come to the rescue. -- Mike B., Omaha, Neb.

You have a good pet hint that I'm happy to publicize. -- Heloise

PET PAL

Dear Readers: Ruth Ferry of Torrington, Conn., sent a photo of her 3-year-old domestic short-haired cat, Sam, standing on his hind feet gazing longingly out a window.

To get a look at Sam, visit www.Heloise.com. -- Heloise

BIRD FEEDING

Dear Heloise: Recently needing a scoop for feeding my fine feathered friends, I cut the bottom from a 1-liter plastic bottle. First I cut the bottom off straight across using kitchen shears, where the label stopped, and then I cut a scoop shape at an angle from the remaining large part. The scoop is great because the cap keeps the seed in the scoop until I get to the feeder.

If you do not cut the scoop at an angle, you also have a wonderful funnel when you remove the cap. This is one way to keep those bottles out of the landfill. Of course, I recycle mine also. One can use only so many scoops and funnels.

Thank you so much for your column. I read it in The (Columbia, S.C.) State newspaper. -- Nancy, via e-mail

UNIQUE NAMES

Dear Heloise: Many years ago when I lived with my family in the country, a cat showed up at our door and would not leave, so she became our cat. She was very playful, so we named her Happy. A few months later, on Oct. 31, another cat showed up and would not leave. Because of the date we first saw her, we named her Halloween. Both cats became part of our family. They spent a lot of time outdoors, but always came in when I called them, either to feed them or in the evening when it was cold outdoors. It took me some time to realize how strange it must sound to anyone within hearing distance when I called "Happy, Halloween." -- Stella R., Manchester, N.H.

Tails of Marin: Why Spay and Neuter Pets? Numbers Tell the Story
Carrie Harrington - marinij.com

In six years, one female dog and her offspring can be the source of 67,000 puppies.
And in just seven years, one female cat and her young can produce 420,000 kittens.
The numbers tell the story: Spaying and neutering companion animals is the most effective way to reduce pet overpopulation. Every day in the United States, more than 70,000 puppies and kittens are born. And in California, nearly 1 million homeless animals are born each year. As long as such high birth rates exist, there will never be enough homes for these animals.

In Marin, the community has done an excellent job of curbing pet overpopulation. But there is still work to do. Being a responsible pet guardian means making the important choice to spay or neuter your pet - it's a choice that saves lives.

Contrary to some myths, spaying and neutering will not make your pet fat and lazy. Too much food and not enough exercise is the main cause of obesity in pets. Neutering will not make your cat and dog feel less masculine or change their basic personality. They won't suffer from any kind of identity crisis when neutered.

An altered pet can be easier to manage. Heat cycles in unspayed females can attract persistent males and cause frantic pacing and crying. Neutered males are generally less aggressive and less apt to roam or mark their territory by spraying. Unaltered dogs are three times more likely to bite humans and other animals. In fact, California has more reported dog bite injuries than any other state and a majority of dog bite victims are children.

Spaying and neutering is healthier for your pet, too. Spaying female dogs and cats eliminates the problems and risks of pregnancy and birth, as well as the common problems of cancer and infection of the uterus. It also decreases the possibility of mammary tumors and eliminates the possibility of uterine or ovarian cancer. Neutering male dogs and cats reduces the risk of prostate problems and testicular tumors later in life.

And don't forget to spay or neuter your pet rabbit. Spaying or neutering rabbits can reduce hormone-driven behavior such as mounting, spraying and lunging, and spaying females can prevent ovarian, mammary and uterine cancers. Rabbits reproduce even faster than dogs or cats and often end up in shelters where they are adopted less frequently than their feline or canine friends.

Does the fee for spaying or neutering your companion animal seem too costly? The Marin Humane Society Veterinary Clinic performs low-cost spay and neuter surgeries for cats and dogs of Marin County residents.

In addition, four times a year, including November, the Society's Cat Fund, in conjunction with several local veterinarians, provides low-cost spay and neuter surgeries for felines. For more information on these programs, call the MHS Veterinary Clinic at 415-883-3383.

Low-cost programs

Feline low-cost spay/neuter for November, sponsored by the Marin Humane Society Cat Fund.

Cost: Spay, $50; neuter, $40

Call one of the following vet hospitals to make an appointment:

- Adobe Pet Hospital (Mill Valley): 388-4300

- Fairfax Veterinary Hospital: 454-8204

- Marin Pet Hospital (San Rafael): 454-4414

- Point Reyes Animal Hospital: 663-1533

- Redwood Pet Clinic (Greenbrae): 924-3493

- The Country Vet: 897-8380

- Terra Linda Veterinary Hospital: 479-8535

Carrie Harrington is the communications manager at the Marin Humane Society, which contributes Tails of Marin articles. For more information, call 415-883-4621 or visit MarinHumaneSociety.org.

Click on banner to visit The Pet Warehouse

The Dog-Gone Funnies
Thanks to Al from BHC, AZ

You Must Afford Aquarium Supplies
Fish-Pet.blogspot.com
If you are considering buying an aquarium full of fish or if you already own one, then you cannot afford to stop there. Just like any other pets, fish in aquariums require a lot of care and attention. You cannot just throw fish into an aquarium and expect them to survive and thrive. You must purchase the proper aquarium supplies for your fish.

I'm pretty passionate about this subject because owning a pet supplies store I have seen far too many people choose to own fish because "they are easier and require less than other pets." While this is true on many levels, it is no excuse for people to not buy the proper kinds of aquarium supplies for their pets.

If you are unsure of what kinds of aquarium supplies you might need for the fish you have purchased or are hoping to purchase, then look no further than to a pet supply store for help. Go to a store near you and talk to someone that is knowledgable about aquarium supplies. Ask all of your questions and allow them to lead to aquarium supplies that are reasonable and necessary for the livelihood of your fish. Make sure that you have a full understanding of the needs of your fish before you purchase them. You need to realize that fish take work just like any other pet and that something will be required of you in taking care of them.

If you aren't quite ready to visit a pet supply store, then go to your local library and find some resources on starting an aquarium and filling it with the right aquarium supplies. There are many great resources out there, you just need to find them and learn what you can. You can also benefit greatly in learning about the proper aquarium supplies by doing an internet search based on the kinds of fish you have or are thinking of purchasing.

When it comes time to actually purchase aquarium supplies, you'll want to make your way back to the pet supplies store. No where else will you find as great of help from people who really know what they are talking about. So get to your local petshop and find all the aquarium supplies you need. And don't worry, most aquarium supplies come in a wide variety of price ranges, so don't feel obligated to run off and buy the most expensive ones. Instead, go for what fits your budget.

Having fish can be a great and fun thing. Just be sure to fill your aquarium with the right supplies and your fish will live long and stay happy.

Do Your Part for Your Cat’s Proper Grooming
By Kim Archer - SelfLoveTips.com
Most cats can tend to themselves when it concerns cleanliness. Yet in order to keep your cat in the best possible hygienic health, you also need to do your own share. When you groom your cat it is a good opportunity to check for fleas and ticks. Furthermore, you ought to examine the skin for unusual conditions, damage, or balding when you groom. Read the following for some tips to make your cat look even better with proper cat grooming.

Before you begin grooming, the required pet grooming supplies ought to be obtained to help make the job less difficult with an improved outcome. You will need to pick up several products like grooming scissors and a grooming glove, as well as a brush and comb. Only use products specially made for the care of your cat.

Keeping the hair washed and neat is one way to keep your cat looking good. By combing and trimming the hair on a regular basis you will both be able to enjoy the advantages of a well groomed cat. When grooming your cat’s hair, choose a brush that has lots of tiny bristles. For brushing to go more effortlessly the head ought to be fairly small. To properly groom your cat, brush it in the direction that its hair grows. If you don’t, you will likely have an angry cat, and many scratches.

Grooming your cat does include the occasional bath. To make the job as stress free as possible, wash her in her carrier and use a towel to help make sure she is as calm as can be expected. Select a shampoo made for cats that will create a good lather. It should also make your cat more comfortable by stopping dry, chafed skin.

When grooming a cat, an important part is to keep the cat’s hair from becoming mangy and matted. Trimming long haired cats regularly with a good pair of grooming scissors and a comb is advised. Always move carefully to avoid puncturing or scratching sensitive skin on your cat.

To reduce shedding and make brushing less difficult and less abrasive, try making use of cat grooming gloves. Find a pair that can be washed in the machine. You can also use it to get cat hair out of your upholstery and carpet.

The difference between a well-groomed, healthy cat and one with tangled, matted hair can be the right cat grooming equipment. Your grooming tools ought to be used in such a way that they calm and please your pet.

About the Author:
When it comes to keeping your pet happy and healthy there is nothing more important than proper pets grooming. Whether you take your pet to a professional groomer, do the job yourself, or call up a mobile pet grooming service, you are demonstrating your love and affection for your pet.

AmeriMark Direct is a leading direct marketer of women's apparel, shoes, name-brand cosmetics, fragrances, jewelry, watches, accessories, and health-related merchandise.

Tips for Poisoned Pets
CatChannel.com
It’s a pet owners nightmare: one minute your pet is frolicking happily and the next it is sick from ingesting a poisonous substance in your home. If it were your child, you might know to call a local Poison Control Center right away, but who can help your pet?

There are a number of options for panicking pet owners who need immediate advice.
Pet Poison Helpline is a service staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week, by veterinarians, board-certified veterinary toxicologists, board-certified internal medicine and emergency critical care specialists and doctors of pharmacy. By calling 800-213-6680, pet owners can talk to an expert for a $35 per incident fee, which includes follow-up phone consultation for the duration of the poison case.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) offers a similar service, which can be reached at 888-426-4435, for a $60 fee.

The ASPCA notes that it is important that people telephone ahead and bring their pet immediately to a local veterinarian or emergency veterinary clinic instead of calling a poison control hotline if the animal is having seizures, losing consciousness, is unconscious or is having difficulty breathing.

The top 10 pet poisons of 2008, according to the ASPCA, were: people medications; insecticides; people food; rodenticides; veterinary medications; plants; chemical hazards like drain cleaners and pool chemicals; household cleaners; heavy metals which can be ingested or inhaled through lead paint and dust from household scraping and sanding; and fertilizers.

Letter: Respect Pet Owners' Wishes at Dog Park
Wisconsin Rapids Tribune

I have concern regarding treats being brought to the newest dog park in Rapids:
1. I believe people's wishes should be respected and you should not automatically assume a dog can be given a treat or numerous treats. Just because you may feed your dog whatever you wish at your home, does not mean other people do the same for their dog.

2. Some individuals have dogs that have many allergies and cannot be given ANY type of treat other than a specialized kind.

3. If you ask if another person's dog can have a treat and they say, "Yes he/she can have one," do not assume they can have 20 treats as long as the dog continues to bother you.

4. When a group of dogs begin playing in front of you, do not throw random treats in the air for the dogs to dive at. It could cause a fight, or a dog that is allergic to it could eat it without the owner being aware.

5. Some owners have their dog on a special diet or do not allow their dog to have treats/table food because they do not want them to beg or misbehave.

I believe these wishes should be respected because all dog owners have different opinions on what their dog can or cannot have. The dog park is for running and playing, not to be fed treats the entire time they are there.

Please leave your treats at home.

Kelli Oligney
Wisconsin Rapids

Click on banner to visit this site

Click here for "Dating Tips, Relationship Advice and Intimacy"

Click here for "Headlines You Should Know!"

Tips on How to Choose the Best Vet for Your Dog
Submitted by Stan Cristian
When you have a pet, the vet is probably one of your best friends. This is why you need to get a vet to fit your needs, a person that is well trained and with good communication skills. If you are still looking for the perfect vet for your dog, this article will help you with some pointers on how to choose him.

You can start with a bit of worth of mouth and ask in the community about the best vets. People will start talking and they will refer you to some vets in no time. Ask the people who have pets about their vets and see what they tell you. They are the first persons to whom you should speak. Ask if they are happy with the current vet and if the vet has solved their dog problems in the past. If the breed of your dog is a special one, then you can start by asking the breed association about a vet that treats that special breed.

They can easily refer you to one. If you have taken the puppy from a local breeder, you can ask him too. Also, if you are looking for a holistic vet you can look on the website ahvma.org and see their database. If you are an open minded person you could also be interested in talking to a vet that does acupuncture too. You can contact one by referring to the International Veterinary Acupuncture XE "Acupuncture" Society. You can view their website XE "International Veterinary Acupuncture Society" at ivas.org.

After you get some vet names, these are the most important questions to ask him:

1. What services it offers?

The doctor is a part of a multi-doctor practice or it is a one-office doctor? There are many doctors that try to consolidate their practice and they team up with group practices or form partnerships. There is no problem with that except for the fact that sometimes you could be seeing another vet from the same practice. Also, try to see if the service he offers also has a 24 hour emergency option. If the dog suffers an accident, make sure you can call in the middle of the night if you need help.

2. Does the doctor also provide a full surgery suite and has an on-site lab work with X-rays and ultrasound capabilities?

If your vet has to take the lab tests and analyze it somewhere else this could take a lot of time plus you could get additional taxes on your tab.

3. Get a fee schedule.

Most of the times the most important aspect in choosing the vet is the cost but it shouldn’t always be like that. There is no need to pay a small amount of money to a doctor that will not solve your problem than pay a good fee to a good vet.

4. Check out the physical characteristics of the facility.

Before you make up your mind about selecting that doctor you also need to check his physical facilities. Make sure the place is clean and you can also see if there are magazines up to date in the waiting room. This may appear like a small issue but this means the doctors are paying attention to news and they also care about you.

5. Communication.

You also need to make sure you can establish a good communication with the vet. You need to make sure you can speak with him and that he cares about your problems. A good vet will always explain you the procedures and the tests and will give you advice.

About the Author:

Visit PetMedsReviews.Com for more cat meds reviews.
Read our K9 Advantix for dogs review and Revolution for dogs review.

Introduce a New Dog Slowly to Your Cats
By STEVE DALE, The Montreal Gazette
Goldfish can survive for a decade if their aquarium isn't overcrowded

Q: We recently moved to a small farm with our two indoor cats. We want to add a Labrador Retriever. How do we choose a dog? Any advice on introducing our new dog to the cats?

L.M., Lexington, Ky.

A: A puppy can work out, but there are several advantages to choosing an adult dog, says Amy Shojai, author of "PETiquette: Solving Behavior Problems in Your Multi-Pet Household" (M. Evans and Company, New York, 2005; $15.95), "Retriever puppies can be very energetic," she notes. "Even if the puppy doesn't have a mean bone in her body, cats with no previous experience with dogs might be offended by a rambunctious puppy with big old paws coming at their faces."

Shojai suggests adopting an adult dog who was rescued and is living with a foster family with cats.

Whether you get an adult dog or a puppy, keep the new pet secluded behind a puppy or baby gate. When the cat seems interested in the dog, allow the dog to walk around the house on a leash. As you begin to allow the dog off-leash, show your cat places to escape where the dog can't reach, such as a bookcase, window ledges or a cat tree.

"Knowing there's an escape route will help the cats feel safe," Shojai adds.

One way to encourage your cats to accept the dog is to offer a special treat when they're acting calm, cool and collected in the dog's presence. Introduce the dog as quickly as your cats will allow; they'll make the call.

Q: I'm interested in learning about goldfish. Can you suggest any books? How about tips on their care? - M.N., Chicago, Ill.

A: A pet superstore isn't the best place to buy a goldfish, and they'll likely sell a feeder goldfish anyway, which aren't bred to live very long. Instead, go to a pet store specializing in fish, advises Sarah Klusak, an aquarist and vice-president of the Aquarium Professional Group in Evanston, Ill. "Also, avoid those fancy goldfish; they may look interesting but they're inbred and seem more susceptible to illness."

Klusak says goldfish are messy eaters and eliminate frequently, creating dirty, even toxic water, over time. Keep only a few goldfish in a large aquarium, with lots of decorative objects to serve as hiding places.

"Over-feeding is one of the biggest problems we have, particularly with goldfish," Klusak says. "Less is best." With luck, and appropriate housing and care, goldfish should easily survive a decade or more.

Two books to check out: Focus On Freshwater Aquariums, by Geoff Rogers and Nick Fletcher (Firefly Books, New York, 2004; $29.95) and the Complete Encyclopedia of the Freshwater Aquarium, by John Dawes (Firefly Books, New York, 2001; $40).

- - -

Steve Dale welcomes questions from readers. Personal replies cannot be provided, but he will answer questions of general interest in his column. Write to Steve Dale at Tribune Media Services, 2225 Kenmore Ave., Suite 114, Buffalo, N.Y. 14207. Email: petworld@aol.com.

Click here to visit The EZ Online Shopping Network of Stores

Winter Safety Tips PLUS The Dog-Gone Funnies

2009-11-04T00:02:00.000-08:00

Pet Tip: Search Engine Can Help Find an Animal Companion
Washington Post
Anyone who has room for another dog or cat might want to check out an easy-to-use new pet adoption search engine available through http://www.marthastewart.com/pet-adoption.

Recently, I went on this Web site, clicked on "Cats" and then plugged in my home Zip code. Then I indicated the distance I was willing to drive to connect with an available pet (50 miles) and selected the breed of cat I was interested in: Persian. (Forgive me, Gus, my domestic shorthair.) I then indicated I was willing to consider a cat of any sex, age, color or hair length. Up popped photos and extensive profiles of eight cats that fit my criteria and were ready for adoption.

One cat that showed up was Vladimir, a lovely white Persian with green eyes who loves to sit in your lap. Then there was Alexis, a fluffy cream-colored Himalayan who lost her home because of an overseas move.

-- Jura Koncius

PETCO Offers Three Ways to Give to Pets in Need This Holiday Season
Reuters
National Pet Adoption Weekend, Tree of Hope and Home 4 the Holidays(R) kick
off season of giving at PETCO

SAN DIEGO -- More than 1,000 PETCO stores nationwide will encourage families to Think Adoption First during National Pet Adoption Weekend Nov. 7 and 8 when they partner with their local animal shelters to hold adoption events. In addition, the National Pet Adoption Weekend kicks-off PETCO's annual Tree of Hope fundraiser for the PETCO Foundation an PETCO's partnership with the IAMS® annual Home 4 the Holidays® pet adoption drive.

"PETCO supports the goals of all pet parents with the opportunity to provide a
home, a donation or a healthy lifestyle to a pet in need this holiday season.
Last year PETCO raised more than $3 million through the Tree of Hope campaign
in PETCO stores, and the PETCO Foundation was able to help more than 5,000
animal shelters," said Jim Myers, Chief Executive Officer for PETCO. "Through
our National Pet Adoption Weekend and Tree of Hope campaign we hope to boost
the number of animal adoptions and monies raised to make a positive difference
in the lives of thousands of animals."

The Tree of Hope fundraiser allows PETCO customers to purchase snowflake card
ornaments for $5, $10 or $20 donations through Dec. 24. Customers may also
purchase PETCO Foundation "Peace on Earth, Good Homes for Pets" T-shirts or
sweatshirts while supplies last. In addition, IAMS will donate $1 to the PETCO
Foundation for every bag of IAMS( )cat or dog food sold at PETCO stores from
Nov. 7 to Dec. 24 in support of the 2009 Home 4 the Holidays goal to find
homes for 1.5 million animals by the end of the holiday season.

Every PETCO customer who adopts an animal through one of PETCO's sponsored
animal adoption events or its charitable partners are invited to join PETCO's
Think Adoption First program. When proof of a pet adoption is brought into a
store and a P.A.L.S. loyalty program membership is activated, customers will
receive a free brochure that features exclusive savings on food and supplies.
In addition, new pet parents will receive a year-long series of educational
e-mails regarding the health and well-being of their new pet, as well as
special offers of up to 25 percent in savings each month.

For more information on PETCO's Tree of Hope fundraiser or National Adoption
Weekend, visit petcofoundation.org. For more information on the IAMS Home 4
the Holidays campaign, visit iams.com

For information on PETCO's Think Adoption First program, visit
petco.com/thinkadoptionfirst, or find a PETCO store near you, visit
petco.com.

About PETCO
PETCO is a privately held specialty retailer that provides products, services
and advice that make it easier for our customers to be great pet parents. We
operate more than 1,000 stores in 50 states and the District of Columbia, as
well as a leading pet products and information destination at PETCO.com. Our
nonprofit organization, the PETCO Foundation, has raised more than $55 million
since its inception in 1999 to help promote and improve the welfare of
companion animals. In conjunction with the foundation, we work with and
support more than 6,200 local animal welfare groups across the country to help
find homes for more than 200,000 adoptable animals every year.

Yikes! Man Sticks Ferret Down His Pants
Posted by Barbara Hijek - Sun-Sentinel
Local Michelle Klock sums it up best.

"If you want to put a wild animal in your britches, that's your personal business," Klock said. "Who would want to steal a ferret, bottom line. I've heard of people stealing snakes, but stuffing a ferret down your britches? Hello, " reports News4Jax.com.

Pet store owner Stephen Brezil says that ferrets are bouncy and kind of bitey.

But that didn't stop Rodney Bolton.

Bolton went into the Pet Supermarket store in Jacksonville Beach and stuck a ferret down the front of his pants before walking out.

A 17-year-old shopper tried to rescue the ferret. They got into a fight. Bolton squeezed the ferret in order to agitate it.

That worked. It bit the 17 year old's ear.

Bolton told the cops that somebody gave him the ferret outside the pet store.

"Strange, weird, unusual, never heard of this quite before," Klock said. "That guy's a knucklehead."

Click on banner to visit The Pet Warehouse

The Dog-Gone Funnies
Thanks to Al from BHC, AZ

AmeriMark Direct is a leading direct marketer of women's apparel, shoes, name-brand cosmetics, fragrances, jewelry, watches, accessories, and health-related merchandise.

Adopting a Dog? Have a Plan
BY WILLIAM HAGEMAN - CHICAGO TRIBUNE/Freep.com

Impulse a poor way to choose a pooch

We know someone who recently made a spur-of-the-moment stop at an animal shelter and walked out a few minutes later with a new dog. A dog that wasn't housebroken. That nipped. That needed a crate.

Our friend had the best of intentions but this was not the best way to adopt a dog. The process takes planning and work. Here's a game plan.

THINK IT OUT: The worst mistake that people make, says Karen Okura, manager of behavior and training at the Anti-Cruelty Society (www.anticruelty.org), is impulse adoption.

Don't pick an animal because it reminds you of your old dog, she says, or because you pity the animal, or because you lost your job and need to feel loved, or because the kids want one, or to save a marriage or relationship.

"The No. 1 objective is to save a life. People don't realize the number of amazing dogs being euthanized," says Rochelle Michalek, executive director of PAWS Chicago. "Dogs make great companions. They're great from a social perspective."
Once you have a good reason to adopt, use your head.

"People should look at practical things," Okura says. "Does someone in the home have allergies? How prepared are you to do a minimal amount of grooming?"

Also ask: Do you have the time to feed, train and exercise a new dog? Can you afford the financial investment? Does the entire family approve?
If you're looking at a puppy, know how big it's going to get.

CHOOSING A BREED ... OR NOT: Figure out what you want: big, small, male, female, energetic, laid-back, etc. Every factor should be considered.

Is there a purebred that appeals to you? Study up and learn more about that breed's dogs, from how big they get, to their temperament, to how much they shed. Talk to a rescue group that deals in that particular breed. It can tell you a breed's quirks -- and it might even have an animal that would be a good fit.

Two sites listing breed rescue groups are www.akc.org/breeds/rescue.cfm and netpets.com/dogs/dogresc/doggrp.html.

If you have no particular breed in mind, consider a mutt.

FINDING THE RIGHT DOG: Okura does not recommend pet shops. "No breeder worth his reputation will sell puppies to pet stores, period," Okura says.
Backyard breeders? Maybe. They could be clueless owners or they could be running their own small-time version of a puppy mill.

Shelters are becoming prime sources for quality purebred dogs -- well-kept, socialized, trained and family-ready -- because of the economy.

Once you've zeroed in on a dog, have a family meeting with it. Everyone. Mom, Dad, the kids, your other pets.

4 Tips to Help You Save Money on Your Pets
Reported by: Denise Naughton - abc15.com

Money saving tips for savvy pet parents
We all love our pets, but let's face it, sometimes they can really be expensive. There is the food, the expensive vacuum cleaners to pick up the fur, and lets not even talk about the stains!

But there is help to cut those costs, use these four tips to save yourself some dough.

TIP 1: Save 25 percent or more on pet food

We all have overfilled our pet's pet bowl only to throw pet food away the next day. Start measuring per label directions on the back of the package and you won't be throwing money in the trash. Buy a Sunday paper to get coupons and go to get additional promo codes ad coupons from the manufacturer.

TIP 2: Save money on cleaning up pet hair

Use the groomer's number 1 choice for cleaning up pet hair. The NEW Swiffer Sweeper is an affordable option for removing pet hair versus expensive vacuums for hard floor surfaces, and it gets into the corners and edges to get a complete clean.

Another trick to pick up pet hair; is to put on a rubber glove and get it wet, then rub it across your furniture, you’ll be amazed at how the fur will ball up in your hand. It will save you.

TIP 3: Save money cleaning pet messes on the carpet

Don't use paper towels, use plastic putty knives, you can buy them for about 50 cents at any paint store. Make sure you buy a big one and a little one, that way you can use the small one to push the mess onto the big one without rubbing the mess into the carpet.

If your pet is going back to the same spot on the carpet, they have marked the spot and that means there is an odor embedded in the carpet. To get the smell out and keep your pet from returning, try these tips.

First, use some type of an enzyme cleaner to digest the bacteria, which is causing the odor. Spray it onto the carpet and let it sink into the fibers, which will eliminate the odors.

If you have recurring carpet stains, that means the stain is in the carpet pad. To get rid of them you’ll need to buy a syringe from the grocery store or pharmacy and fill it with the enzyme cleaner. Then inject the solution into the spot and press it down so it gets into the pad. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes, then pat it on top and use a blow dryer to prevent mildew from starting and the enzyme will keep the smell from returning.

TIP 4: Save money getting rid of pet odors

Start spraying and stop stressing. Febreze offers a full line of pet odor eliminators at a fraction of the cost. Spray it to eliminate pet odors at the core, it also has an allergen reducer.

Click on banner to visit this site

Click here for "Dating Tips, Relationship Advice and Intimacy"

Click here for "Headlines You Should Know!"

Hi, all you animal lovers!
This is pretty simple... Please ask ten friends to each ask a further ten today!

The Animal Rescue Site is having trouble getting enough people to click on it daily so they can meet their quota of getting FREE FOOD donated every day to abused and neglected animals. It takes less than a minute (about 15 seconds) to go to their site and click on the purple box 'fund food for animals for free'.

This doesn't cost you a thing!!!

Their corporate sponsors/advertisers use the number of daily visits to donate food to abandoned/neglected animals in exchange for advertising.

Here's the web site! Please pass it along to people you know:

The Animal Rescue Site

AGAIN, PLEASE TELL 10 FRIENDS!

Tips To Keep Your Dog Safe This Winter
By Jennifer White For K9 Magazine
Gone are the green days of summer, replaced by the changing leaves of autumn – a reminder that it’s the perfect time to refresh your pet IQ before any winter-related dangers come to haunt you! Most savvy pet owners know the usual pet-safety tips about poisonous items in the home, like poinsettias and chocolate. But, as many veterinarians can tell you, that is just the beginning…

Many holidays are celebrated between the months of October and January, meaning that extra food, guests and dangers for pets are right around the corner. Keep these tips from the American Humane Association in mind as you prepare your holiday festivities.

Ringing Doorbell = Nervous Breakdown

Many pets are agitated by the sound of doorbells, especially since their hearing is much more sensitive than ours. If your dogs bark, run and jump when new people arrive at the house, or if your cat runs for cover, consider disengaging the doorbell and putting a sign on the door to ask guests to “knock please.” Provide an open cage large enough for your animal to stand and fully turn around in, and place it in a quiet room away from the hubbub so your pet can choose when to join your party. This will also help keep your pet from running away during the frequent opening and closing of your door if you keep the cage closed.

“No” to the Five-Second Rule

Sometimes we forget what can fall on the floor when we are cooking for a holiday crowd and there’s a pet around. Some of it may be OK, but other things, like bread dough, can cause problems. When an animal ingests dough, its body heat causes the dough to rise in its stomach, leading to bloat or worse. It’s best to let your pet snack on familiar favorites instead of unfamiliar holiday goodies like candy and other people’s food.

Baby, It’s Cold Outside

Cats and other animals may seek out your car engine for warmth during the winter months, so honk the horn or bang on the hood a few times before starting the engine.

Adjust Your Pet’s Diet

Most pets spend more time indoors during the winter, which means their activity level drops and they need less food. However, if your pet does spend a lot of time outdoors in cold weather, he will need more food as he burns calories to keep warm. Talk to your veterinarian for advice on the proper diet for your pet.

Ice, Snow and Salt

Your pet may like taking a stroll outside when the temperature dips, but many people use powerful salts on their sidewalks to combat the ice. Clean your pet’s paws after your outing to prevent its pads from becoming irritated and dried out.

Just Because It’s Cold Doesn’t Mean They Can’t Catch a Bug

Remember to keep your pets on their regular heartworm, flea and tick preventive medicines, even during the winter.

In Addition to Poinsettias …

Holly, amaryllis, mistletoe and pine needles can be harmful to your pet’s stomach. Go for the fake versions to keep your traditions, and your pet, alive.

If They Like Toilet Water, They’ll Probably Like Tree Water

Both cats and dogs may find Christmas-tree water irresistible, so if you add a tree preservative to the water, make sure it is pet friendly. Better yet, use a tree stand designed to prevent pets from accessing the water, which can harbor bacteria.

More Temptation Lies in the Tree

With its glittering lights and natural climbing area, the Christmas tree may offer a new place for your cat or dog to play. Hang your most valuable or breakable ornaments near the top and pet-friendly ornaments on the bottom.

Click here to visit The EZ Online Shopping Network of Stores