Digosim passion for pets

Inadequate Pet Insurance 'Could Cause Financial Difficulties'

2007-11-20T19:28:00.001-08:00

As the wintertime calendar months put in, many consumers could see themselves developing fiscal troubles as a consequence of wellness conditions, new research indicates.

However, the survey conducted by Sainsbury's Depository Financial Institution demoes that Britons may not detect they have got jobs in managing money because of medical jobs experienced by themselves, but rather those which are suffered by their pets. According to the fiscal services firm, animate being lovers should take the clip to guarantee that they have got an adequate coverage policy for their furry friends as 37 and 35 per cent of policies on the marketplace make not cover statuses permanent for more than than a twelvemonth for domestic dogs and true cats respectively. As a result, consumers who have got animate beings which have complaints likely to last for more than than 12 months, such as as eczema, epilepsy or diabetes, could see themselves be forced to ran into the costs of medical treatment themselves. Consequently this could impact upon their ability to do refunds on loans and plastic card bills.

Overall, almost a 3rd (30 per cent) of animate being medical statuses were reported as permanent for at least 12 months. However, with about one in three coverage policies not providing screen for in progress treatment beyond the twelvemonth mark, many pet proprietors may happen themselves coming under fiscal adversity should their animate being go on to suffer. Research from the house also indicated that the typical veterinary measure stand ups at about £300. Meanwhile, one in every 26 trips consequences in costs of more than than 1,000 pounds, for which a low-rate loan may be a competitory manner of meeting the expense.

Commenting on the figures, Claire Moyles, Sainsbury's pet coverage manager, reported that not getting a suitable degree of coverage could do many animate being proprietors to develop fiscal troubles as they may be forced to ran into the cost of veterinarian treatment themselves. In bend this could impact upon their capacity to do payments on place loans, public utility bills, shop card game and other beginnings of demand on their expenditure.

She said: "With such as a big figure of policies not providing adequate long-term treatment for statuses permanent longer than 12 months, pet proprietors necessitate to do certain that the coverage they take will supply the screen they necessitate in the event of their domestic dog or true cat agony from a recurring condition. It is imperative that people bank check what their policy covers before buying it, as otherwise they could stop up having to pick a big unexpected bill. Good quality pet coverage makes not necessitate to be expensive because extended screen at a competitory terms can be establish by shopping around."

As a result, those who are concerned about their capacity to ran into medical disbursals for their pet, in improver to other disbursement commitments, may wish to take out a low-cost loan. Speaking earlier this year, Derek Oakley, insolvency manager for Debt Free Direct, reported that entree to place loans and other types of recognition maintains people's lives "going". Claiming that it gives consumers the chance to do things and make purchases that they may not have got been able to do otherwise, Mister Annie Oakley reported that the immense bulk of people are able to make regular refunds on loans "without a huge amount of difficulty".

Snakes as Pets

2007-11-19T10:06:00.001-08:00

Snakes can do absorbing and entertaining pets, but they're not quite the ideal pet for everyone. They necessitate particular attention and requirements, and should only be kept by those willing to perpetrate to their care.

Choosing the type of serpent is your first step. Some serpents are more than unsafe than others, and the types of serpents scope from common, harmless supporter serpents to big and unsafe pythons.

It's important to research types of serpents before making a decision. Take into consideration its particular demands and requirements, as well as the danger in handling the type of snake.

Regardless of the type of snake, you will necessitate to house it in a unafraid enclosure with no spreads or unfastened countries through which the serpent can escape. A glass structure, like a big fish army tank may be ideal. Just be certain the eyelid is firmly secured and not able to be lifted easily from the inside.

Snakes make not eat vegetation, but must feed on prey. The most common nutrient for serpents (though it makes depend on the type) is mice or rats. It is actually preferred to have got the quarry pre-killed inch order to forestall hurt to the snake. A unrecorded gnawer can harm a snake, so pre-killing is recommended. It may be convenient to maintain a supply of frozen nutrient for your pet snake.

Speak with the pet shop or pet dealer/breeder before buying a snake. If possible, the serpent should have got been bred in captivity. Snakes caught from the wild be given to be less tame and more than prostrate to disease. Also, serpents caught from the wild volition generally be more than hard to feed in captivity.

For new serpent owners, or those who may be inexperienced with snakes, choosing the right type of serpent is key. Corn snakes, male monarch serpents or ball serpents are the best pick for new owners, as they be given to be more than gentle, and their demands are not as hard as some of the other species of snake. They are also relatively littler than other types of snake, ranging from four to five feet in length as adults.

The life-span of snakes, especially the easier attention species listed in the paragraph above, scope from twenty to 40 years. Snakes are not a low-maintenance pet. They necessitate a good trade of particular care, and their long life span necessitates an further committedness to long term care.

As with any pet, the determination to have a pet serpent should not be taken lightly. Careful research and rating of your committedness to taking attention of the pet should be done. Snakes can do very rewarding and entertaining pets. Just be certain you're up to the challenge.

Dog Clothes And Pet Insurance - Two Things Every Dog Needs

2007-11-15T18:38:00.001-08:00

Have you ever considered pet coverage for your domestic dog or cat? In a human race where coverages look to run our mundane life, it is difficult not to see buying coverage for our small companions. You have got car, health, householder or renter, and life coverage in order to relieve the fiscal emphasis of unanticipated accidents and damages. Pet insurance, which can be establish for around $10 a month, makes a security cover if anything were to go on to a valued member of your family. Also, as wintertime attacks and wellness hazards elevate, having good coverage is one of the chief ways to protect your furry four-legged friend.

It is of import to maintain this in mind. On an average, domestic dog proprietors visit the veterinarian around 2.3 modern times per year, and are billed around $211 per visit. This is just for routine visits and makes not advert unanticipated hurts and unwellnesses that have got the possibility of racking up high veterinary bills. There are also prescription and kenneling costs to maintain in mind. No 1 desires to be faced with the world of putting their pet to sleep, especially if it is caused by deficiency of funds.

Please maintain in head that most pet coverages make not cover all pet healthcare costs, but are put up to assist with pet attention needs. Some wage for routine veterinarian visits and some may even cover boarding expenses. It is of import to have got these inquiries in head when searching for the right insurance for you. Bashes your veterinarian accept the peculiar type of pet insurance? Are there a cap on treatment coverage? What is your deductible and how makes this peculiar policy manage pre-existing conditions your
pet may have?

Another manner to protect your pet is through true cat and domestic dog clothes. Small domestic dog clothing are especially utile since the small breeds are most susceptible to cold weather, and they can suit on most kitties and cats. Sweaters and coats should be a basic for any small Chihuahua or Yorkie going for a walking in a wintertime wonderland. You can also forestall hurts from falling on water ice by giving them little domestic dog boots. It's wish the old expression goes, an troy ounce of bar is deserving a lb of cures.

Above all, most pet proprietors attention for the social welfare of their pets almost as much as they make for themselves. Pet coverage only helps in doing so and so make domestic dog clothes. Even though adding more than coverage to your portfolio may set strain on your wallet, it may be good in the long tally and be less of a fiscal burden. They are apparatus to guarantee a less nerve-racking clip when dealing with the healthcare of your pet.

Dog Food - Does Your Dog Food Contain Dogs and Cats?

2007-11-14T07:16:00.001-08:00

Horror narratives abound on the Web, and 1 that is no uncertainty very concerning to pet lovers, is the one telling us that pet domestic dogs and true cats that have got been set to kip by Vets, can stop up as ingredients in pet food?

The narrative travels that Vets direct dead pets to rendition works - that in bend render the meat down into pet food? As if that's not atrocious enough, the anaesthetic used (pentobarbital), is supposed to be in the premix too and then stops up being another chemical Federal to pet domestic dogs and cats! Perhaps Mythbusters should have this one? I have got heard the narrative myself - but had never seen any cogent evidence of it! Well it turns out that the United States Food and Drug Administration have done testing and there is not follow of domestic domestic dog or true true cat deoxyribonucleic acid or the chemical pentobarbital sodium in commercial dog and cat food!

So - it is myth - and now that it have been scientifically tested and proved to be so - we can ONLY hope that some of these wild claims might be retracted?

Anyone that cognizes my positions on the content of pet food, will cognize that I am not a fan of the low class beginnings of meat, meat by-products, down feather graded cereal grasses and other merchandises that they bash set in, but there is still no demand to overstate the truth just to frighten people! I will stay an advocator of high quality home-prepared food, because it gives your domestic dog FAR better nutrition and at a less cost to commercial message food!

For a nexus to the ACTUAL Food and Drug Administration article glade commercial nutrient of this horrid narrative - visit my site.

Is Your Backyard Endangering Your Dog's Life?

2007-11-12T13:01:00.001-08:00

A backyard that appears to be a dog's oasis can still be full of all kinds of dangers, especially for boisterous puppies. Puppies are energetic and be given to research everything they encounter. Their natural impulse to masticate can be deathly in a unsafe backyard.

The most common age for domestic dogs to fall victim to noxious backyard dangers is between the ages of one and six months. Some breeds of dogs, like Golden Retrievers, have got a inclination to masticate and gnaw all throughout their lives.

What Are Backyard Dangers for Dogs? To protect your dog, it is best to get rid of all dangers in your backyard regardless of your dog's age or breed. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, ASPCA, the most common backyard dangers to watch out for are:

* Citronella tapers that drive mosquitoes and incorporate chemicals that could toxicant substance your dog

* Mulching around trees, plants, and bushes that incorporates cocoa

* Compost bins and garden or grass fertilizers

* Traps designed to catch snails or bullets and incorporate metaldehyde

* Fish pools or cosmetic fountains that incorporate blue-green algae

* Insects, toads, snakes, and other animate beings that may go forth behind noxious toxins

* Chemicals and stores for swimming pools or hot tubs

* Azaleas, grape vines, sago palms, and other works that are known to be poisonous

* Fly repellants and traps with metonym

Dog proprietors must play an active function in protecting their puppy from these dangers, as well as other common perils, both interior and outside of their home. Keep chemicals, lawn equipment, and horticulture stores secured and out of your dog's reach. Brand certain refuse tins and other containers are closed tightly at all times.

Always usage fertilizers, pesticides, and other noxious agents exactly as instructed and attentiveness any safety warnings on the labels. There are many organic and natural merchandises that tin be used in the topographic point of risky chemicals for complete laniary safety. Your veterinary or landscaper may be able to urge quality products.

If your domestic dog makes consume a toxicant substance or chemical, or if he is bitten by a poisonous animal, immediately reach your veterinarian or phone call 1-888-426-4435 for aid from the APCC.

How to Choose the Best German Shepherd Dog Pup in the Litter

2007-11-05T20:00:00.001-08:00

If you are interested in getting a domestic dog that volition bend out to be a show victor and you have got the chance of choosing the most promising animate being from the full litter, here are of import points to look for.

It is of course of study not easy to take the best whelp in the litter because whelps make alteration - sometimes quite dramatically. There have got been occasions where the shrimp of the litter have turned out to be far better than his more than promising litter mates. But as a rule, when one have the chance of examining the full litter at eight weeks, it is generally possible to take the best - certainly the best whelp at that phase of growth.

Eight hebdomads is a probably the best clip to do the choice. After taking your clip to analyze all the whelps in the litter carefully, do certain that the forelegs of the whelp that takes your fancy are consecutive and sturdy. See that the whelp have good os which is indicated by thick "knuckle".

If it is a male you are looking for, size and maleness is important. Although one must be aware that inch recent old age over-size in males is a job that have go more than common in the breed. It is a fault and is something to be guarded against.

The whelp should have got a good strong and clearly masculine head. This is also of importance because there is a inclination in recent old age for caputs in males to be finer and less solid than one would like. The motion of the whelp can be reasonably well assessed even at this legal tender age of eight weeks. The well-balanced whelp will look to travel with more than than harmoniousness and more easily than the others in the litter.

Look for a pup with a high wither. This is fairly easy to access, but seek and do certain that the high shrivel is not at the disbursal of a good shoulder formation. This is rather hard because first-class shoulder formation is not as common as one would wish.

The high shrivel that is such as an attractive characteristic of the modern Shepherd is one of the grounds for this. The shoulder should be well laid back with good length of upper arm. Even at this early it is possible to see whether or not the whelp have a good shoulder. Of course of study a good shoulder is not merely an aesthetic requirement, it is indispensable for good forward range and sound motion when the whelp turns into a mature dog.

If you have got to take between a whelp that is slightly long in organic structure length and one that is somewhat shorter in organic structure length, if other factors are equal, give penchant to the slightly shorter pup. Sometimes organic structure length is accompanied by failing in back and will impact motion severely when the whelp matures.

It travels without saying that you should have got got seen both parents before having to do a determination and have been aware of any lacks present in improver to virtues. Examine, if possible, other animate beings they have got produced. It will also be of great benefit if you have got background cognition of the bloodlines. The whelp should have got strong buttocks with wide thighs, long smothers and good hocks. The length of smother is also easily recognizable at the age of eight weeks. But this volition change.

When you choose a whelp with a well angulated, long stifle, do a point of examining the away motion to see if the Rhine wines are fairly firm. Once cannot anticipate Rhine wines to be too house at this early age, but you don't desire a whelp that have rickety hocks. The coat should be full but definitely not long. A long coat is a serious fault in the show ring. It is quite easy to observe a long coat in a whelp because the whelp show marks of a collie type coat and there will be tussocks of pelt coming from the ears.

Unless there are definite marks of colour paling, which is a definite fault, colour is not supposed to be of primary importance in the show ring. However, there is no uncertainty that a well-pigmented animate being is always far more than than glamourous in the show ring and pulls more attention.

With respect to ears, this is usually a substance about which you necessitate not concern yourself if both parents have got good ear carriage. The ears make not go fully raise until the domestic dogs coatings teething and six months, although many whelps make acquire their ears up much earlier. But if the ears are very long and inclined to be thick there might be a danger of soft ears. Here again it is of import to cognize the lineages of the parents. If the whelp have got a good head, with a deep muzzle, not a long collie type head, the opportunities are good that the bite will be good and the whelp will have the right pair of scissors bite when he matures. Many whelps are over-shot when they are young, which intends that the upper dentition protrude far over the less teeth.

A scissor bite is very of import and if there is a definite spread of more than than 2mm. between the upper and less dentition the domestic dog will be heavily penalized in the show ring. What cannot be predicted with any grade of truth at this early stage, is whether the whelp will turn up to have got full teething - a full complement of teeth. Quite often, when the whelp maturates and the teething procedure is over, the proprietor is very disquieted to happen that an otherwise promising animate being have a lacking tooth.

This may look a very minor fault - and in a household pet it is certainly of no existent effect - but in the show ring it is viewed in a serious visible light as it is regarded as a familial fault. Even though the stock breeder is as apprehensive as you are to have got got your whelp make well in the show ring, there is of course of study no warrant that your whelp is going to make well, as careful as you have been in your selection.

Bear in head that the screening of dogs, particularly German Shepherds, in the highly competitory environment that bes today, is very demanding and often very frustrating. Your domestic dog may be a good specimen, but whether he goes a show victor is entirely dependent on the quality of the competition! If you make go on to win, bask your victory with good grace. Entrance Dog Shows should always be regarded as a sport. Be sportsmanlike. Sometimes you win. Sometimes you lose. If you make go on be beaten by what the Judge sees to be a superior animal, be a gracious loser.

If you are interested in learning more than about German Shepherd Dogs, especially the lineages of top winning show specimens, and preparation techniques, you'll happen a great trade of information on the author's website.

This festival was for the dogs, and dancing with the owners - Naples Daily News

2007-11-03T19:13:00.001-07:00

Saturday, November 3, 2007

Maybe it was the round of âDancing Queen.â Or maybe it was the motivating glance of a hovering masticate toy. But for 30 secs of mostly four-footed grooving, two bounding Boundary Line Collies had all the right moves.

For the most part, they even stayed on the platform that served as the phase for this dog-dancing competition, not far from the human member of their trio.

Minutes before, it had been a Lassa Apso named Hayfield who did a tail jerk to the music of the Bee Gees as North Garrison Myers occupant Carole Chrusz twined away nearby.

These were just some of the many human-canine squads to dance arm-in-paw Saturday at the 7th yearly Fall Pet Fest.

The dayâs events drew 100s to the Spike Lee County Animal Services Building South of Garrison Myers, and thatâs not counting all the animals with wet olfactory organs that were there, too.

The festival benefits many types of animals, and while there was at least one pet bird in the crowd, it was clear that Saturday was mostly a domestic dog day.

Wading pools and hosieries that were put out between booths served as dog-style imbibing fountains. Children had lolling linguas and achromatic olfactory organs painted on their faces, and among the saunterers in the crowd, a good figure carried tiny, dressed-up canines.

The premix of domestic dogs ranged from a Great Pyrenees to a Chihuahua. There were beagles and boxers, and Cape Coral occupant Joni Hermansen was there with five of the Cocker Spaniel Spaniels sheâs currently protective for: Molly, Macy, Sally, Sandy and Lucy.

Altogether, it was a tangle of colourful leashes, splashes of drool, isolated spots of fur, sounds of panting, sniffs, barks and yips -- an ambiance Hermansen and many others there thoroughly enjoyed.

For Candy Smith, who seeks difficult to do it to the festival each year, the high spot is usually another event: the pet costume contest.

This year, she and her 10-year-old daughter, Dana, both were wowed by a pug-dog in a coney costume placed in a magicianâs hat.

âSome people acquire pretty elaborate,â Ian Smith said.

As for her ain 5-year-old pug, Ziggy, she kept the costume relatively simple with a pirate-themed sweater.

Beyond the fun, the event is a great clip to pick up dog-training tips and sample pet treats, she said. The festival is also a opportunity for her to bank check at the county shelter to see if there are any pug-dogs that demand a home.

Nearby, in between sellers selling pet picture taking sessions, pet sitting and a concern offering to âleave the disgustful occupation to us,â there were many other animate beings looking for homes.

Among them was an inky blackness 3-year-old Labrador premix -- a domestic dog named Dawg.

At the Animal Safety Center booth, trainer Bobbi Robert Graves described him as a smart and gorgeous animate being who was still picking up new commands.

Finding animate beings places and raising money to assist others is much of the ground behind the event, and the contributions received at the entranceway gate will travel to the Spike Lee County Animal Care Trust Fund. The finances aid attention for abused and neglected animate beings as well as to help some pet proprietors with the costs of spaying or neutering.

With all the animate beings up for adoption, Garrison Myers occupant Ashley Bell was among those who said she was tempted to go forth the festival with a new pet.

âTheyâre very cute,â she said.

But she decided not to convey place a comrade for her dog, Duffy, who had just taken a speedy bath in one of the wading pools.

âI cognize one is enough for me,â she said.

Top Ten Tips For Dog Boarding

2007-11-01T15:10:00.001-07:00

Lancelot and Sheba, my two Rottweilers, along with Tama and Cheetah my true cats were the ground I looked into boarding
pets and domestic dog boarding. Can you conceive of taking a 135 lb Rottweiler with a freaky Thai to holidays even for a day
or two?

1- Brand Your List And Check It Twice.

Make a listing of all the domestic dog boarding installations around, phone call them and do certain they are still in business. Last year's
yellowish pages may not be very reliable. Ask them if they have got got opening and if they have restriction on size. Some
veterinaries accept boarding for true cats and little domestic dogs only.

2- Ask For The Inoculation Requirements

Dog boarding installations should necessitate cogent evidence of inoculation and if they don't you cognize that you should just hang up and
move on. Clarify exactly what type of inoculation and what type of cogent evidence they necessitate and do certain that you have got it. Canine Kennel Cough (Bordetella) is one of the requirements.

3- Who Supervises The Supervisors

Ask for the certificate of the individual in complaint and how often he/she is around. A ace doctor who runs twenty boarding
installations cannot wage attending to any 1 so he/she must delegate. Find out about the makings of the individual who
actually runs the facility.

4- Ocular Inspection

Stop by and see if the installation looks and smells clean, have got enough light and airing and if the temperature is
comfortable.

5- Talk To The Staff

Do they give you a warm and fuzzed feeling and show cognition and attention for the pets?

6- Run Wild

Do domestic dogs have enough room to travel inside their doghouse and some topographic point to run outside? How often are they taken for a walk? I had to pay a small other for them to take mine for a walking twice a day. Brand certain that the out-of-door country is protected
from wind, rain, snowfall if domestic dogs pass too much clip there. This is easy in Golden State where I dwell but I don't cognize about
Toronto in winter.

7- Comfy Cozy

Make certain that your domestic dog have a topographic point to lie down besides the concrete. Sheba, my female Rottweiler would travel brainsick if she
didn't have got a small shock absorber between her and the difficult floor. The amusing thing is that she sets her dorsum end on top of the
shock absorber and rests her caput on the difficult floor. Go figure!

8- Dog Food

How often and what type of nutrient are they given. Again my Rottweilers have got sensitive tummy and other than a very
specific trade name of food, all other trade names would do them terrible diarrhea. So I had to do certain that the domestic dog boarding
installation would let me to take my nutrient after I establish out they didn't transport what my domestic dogs needed.

9- Services Provided

Make certain they have got the ability and entree to veterinary services and bank check out the extravagance points like grooming and
bathing. I asked them not to bathe Sheba and Tama. They would both emphasis out. I may have got been too peculiar but I
rather to maintain them calm down than clean. A warm bath and personal touching worked better for me.

10- Don't Forget The Rates

Make certain that you understand exactly what is offered and what is optional and how much it will be including checking
out clip that could be you an other day.

I had a fantastic experience with the domestic dog boarding installation I found. May you be as fortunate.

* DISCLAIMER: Vishy Dadsetan, Dogs-Only-Site.com Oregon My Favorite Shop, Inc. make not back any merchandise or company. This
article and website make not supply professional services. If expert aid is required, the services of a competent
professional should be sought. Although Vishy Dadsetan have made every attempt to guarantee the truth and completeness of
the information contained in this site, he presumes no duty for errors, omissions, inaccuracies, or
inconsistencies.

Call for national pet blood bank

2007-10-31T01:57:00.001-07:00

Leading United Kingdom veterinarians state a national blood depository financial institution is needed to salvage the lives of ill and injured domestic dogs and cats.

The blood would be used for exigency injury lawsuits and during complex trading operations such as as unfastened bosom surgery.

Specialist Centres are now offering pet proprietors hi-tech treatments pioneered in human medicine, including hip substitutions and radiotherapy.

But they come up at a cost - with some proprietors disbursement one thousands of lbs to salvage a much-loved household pet.

Dr Kraut Davies, Council Member of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, and laminitis of the biggest specializer veterinary referral pattern in Europe, said that pets were deserving more than than their commercial value.

"Animals make have got a immense benefit to the human population so we should be striving to assist the animate being for the animal's interest and also for the social welfare of the human attached to them," he said.

Mr Dan Brockman, an expert in cardiothoracic surgery at the Royal Veterinary College, London, said he was now carrying out respective unfastened bosom surgery processes a year.

Other surgical processes for domestic dogs and occasionally true cats - including bosom valve replacement, bosom valve repair, malignant neoplastic disease operations, and knee-, hip- and elbow-replacements - are becoming routine.

The cost of between £3,000 and £10,000 is met by pet coverage policies or by the individual.

"Pets should be considered a extravagance item," said Mister Brockman. "What we make is not for every owner. The of import thing is that portion of responsible pet ownership is to at least give thought to what you might make if your animate being became ill."

Critical care

Many such as trading operations relied on the "benevolence" of proprietors of big domestic dogs who were prepared to allow their pets donate blood, he said.

"One of the things that have held back critical attention in the United Kingdom have been an unwillingness to develop blood banking in the UK," Mister Brockman told newsmen at the Science Media Centre, London.

"It's not possible to have got a well functioning injury Centre without having blood merchandise support as in human injury medicine."

I would wish to see person monetary fund a non-commercial venture - that would be much better but it would be money

Dan Brockman, Royal Veterinary College

Mr Brockman said it should be possible to make a cardinal blood banking installation or respective regional Centres so that blood could be extracted, stored and moved to where it was needed.

"I believe it is only a substance of time; I really trust one will be put up." he added. "Personally, I would wish to see person monetary fund a non-commercial venture - that would be much better but it would be money."

Large domestic dogs of 25kg and above with a composure temperament are suitable as blood donors. The domestic dog is made to lie down, have a acerate leaf placed in a vena in its neck, and 400ml of blood is collected over the course of study of 10-15 minutes. A typical bosom operation would utilize three to four blood blood transfusions of this quantity.

Dr Kraut Davies said about 100-150 domestic dog owners, and about 100 vets, had signed up to a preliminary blood giver strategy launched on the internet. Critics of the thought have got raised commercial, legislative and ethical objections.

Responsible Dog Ownership - What to Expect when Getting a New Puppy or Dog

2007-09-20T14:41:00.001-07:00

I've had duty on the head lately. I am a frequent visitant to respective classified advertisement subdivisions dealing with domestic dogs and domestic dog services for sale. There is a tendency in domestic domestic dog ownership that I see as inexcusable.

As a professional dog trainer I cognize that domestic dogs are not the easiest animate beings to own. When talking about easiness of ownership there is typically no comparing the work involved with lovingness for a domestic dog or puppy as there is with taking on a cat, fish, or turtle. As I see these classifieds from clip to clip I am upset to see such as phrases as "Have to acquire quit of the domestic domestic domestic dog because she sheds so much" or "This dog necessitates an proprietor who can give him more than attention" or "Needs an proprietor who can give him a day-to-day walk" or "Needs an proprietor who can give her training".

The inquiry that should be posed to these proprietors is, "What were you thinking?" Were you thinking when you got a dog that it would be simple? Weren't you realizing that a domestic domestic dog is going to shed, is going to bark, is going to necessitate training, is going to necessitate exercise?

This article is for the possible dog proprietor in hopes that I can assist you understand what it is you are getting in to:

1- Dogs shed. They acquire dirty. They can odor bad. Can you cover with that? They will necessitate baths, and particular tools to pull off shedding. Dogs demand particular shampoos.

2- Dogs cost money. Vaccinations are necessary for every single puppy. Worming medicine is needed for every puppy. There are also many other medical costs such as as blood and stool tests, possible x-rays, and many other costs that originate from normal domestic dog ownership. Keep in mind, I'm talking about healthy animals. If your domestic dog have illnesses or wellness defects your check could easily run into the thousands. You must calculate wellness attention costs into your budget before getting any dog.

3- Every single domestic domestic dog necessitates training. You have got to retrieve that a domestic dog is an animal. Nearly every 1 of his inherent aptitudes is contrary to what you desire in a dog. Dogs jump, chew, dig, travel to the bathroom in the house, etc. It is your duty to learn your domestic dog what is acceptable. It will probably be calendar months at a lower limit before you can let your domestic dog freedom in the house while you aren't home. If you desire to take your domestic dog to the parkland off tether it will probably necessitate calendar months of preparation and 100s or one thousands of dollars in professional trainer costs. If you desire the perfect domestic dog it will likely take hours and hours of work over the space of many months, tons of money, and a boat-load of patience.

Dogs aren't accoutrements to be acquired on a caprice and discarded when it isn't convenient. Responsible domestic dog ownership necessitates existent work, existent effort, and existent money. If you aren't in it for the long haul, don't acquire the domestic domestic dog in the first place.

Good fortune in your pursuit to owning the right dog.

Secret Dog Health Care Tips Your Vet Won't Share

2007-09-19T08:33:00.001-07:00

I am going to share just a few of the secret tips that
your veterinarian makes not desire you to know. These tips will assist salvage you money and
go forth you with a healthier, happy dog.

Every year, billions of domestic dogs are taken to the veterinary for things that could
easily be treated at home, saving you the fuss of a trip to the veterinarian and a ton
of money in the process.

I am certain that you already cognize the domestic domestic dog wellness attention tip about ordering your pet
medicines online. But did you cognize that you could also order antibiotics
for your domestic dog online without a prescription? This is a great domestic domestic dog health
attention tip if your dog endures from a reoccurring status and demands these
medicines on a regular basis. Amazon.com is a great topographic point to tell your
domestic dogs medical specialty online and salvage some money in the process. One of the best
characteristics of Amazon.com is that you can take to buy from respective different
sources, compare terms and transportation fees all on one page.

Here is another great domestic dog wellness attention tip. If you have got got an aged dog
that endures from arthritis, you can ease your domestic dogs arthritis with things that
you already have at home. Simply take an old knee joint sock and fill up it with
regular rice (not instant). Once the sock is nearly filled, necktie a knot in
the top of the sock and microwave it for 2-3 minutes. Before placing
this in your domestic dogs bed, do certain that it is not too hot. This little
rice filled sock will remain warm for hours, providing moist heat energy and hours of
alleviation for your creaky dog.

Before shutting there is one more than domestic dog wellness attention tip that I desire to share
with you. This 1 tip alone could salvage you 100s of dollars a
year. If you are a domestic domestic dog proprietor that loves to give your dog treats, you are
literally throwing your greenish away when you buy those high dollar designer
treats. If you desire a dainty dainty for your domestic domestic dog that is healthy and
affordable, make your dog and your billfold a favour by picking up a bundle of fresh
babe carrots. You can also peel and block apples for a healthy dog
treat. The carrots and apples are much healthier for your domestic dog and you will
salvage a short ton of money in the process.

How To House Train A Dog - What You Need To Know Before Starting

2007-09-17T12:10:00.001-07:00

Learning how to house railroad train a domestic domestic dog is one of the first and most of import things any new dog proprietor should do. You can easily acquire frustrated when you make not understand the rudiments of this process.

Even though its impossible to give you all the necessary tips to demo you how to house railroad train your domestic dog in this short article, I will seek giving you some basic first tips. These tips are very important in the procedure of preparation a dog.

It's my hope that these tips will do it a spot easier for you in the procedure of preparation your dog. Its also very of import to properly house railroad railroad train a domestic domestic domestic dog when you see the fact that general hygiene issues are the figure 1 ground why domestic dogs are surrendered to animate being shelters these days.

The amount of work you have got to make preparation your dog can look overwhelming, but don't panic you can successfully house train any dog. All you necessitate is the forbearance and cognition of how to travel about doing this. You necessitate to pay attending to your domestic dog and detect its mental attitude towards certain commands. You will necessitate to persevere and lodge with the right preparation plan. You won't assist issues by jumping from one preparation method to another.

There is no magic solution to preparation a domestic dog for cleanliness. It takes a small work on your side. You will win within a short clip with the right information. Don't just give up and experience its tough before you even begin. I presently have got 7 fantastic domestic dogs and I house trained all of them successfully within a short clip period of time. What I basically did was to first acquire the necessary knowledge, then I took the clip and had forbearance to follow it through.

In my experience with all my domestic domestic dogs and helping railroad railroad train other people's dogs, I have got establish out that 1 of the first things you necessitate to make to successfully house train your domestic dog is to give it governs and routines. Dogs demand this to be able to stay clean around the home. Dogs benefit from having regulations and a routine laid out for them. This volition also be of benefit to your place in footing of cleanliness around the house. Establish good lavatory and hygiene wonts in your domestic domestic dog when preparation them for cleanliness.

For some dog breeds the best age to begin house preparation them is between 8 to 12 weeks. This should not be applied strictly with all domestic dog breeds. You necessitate to acquire the right preparation information to happen out what uses to your domestic dog breed. Dogs of all ages can still be trained for cleanliness around the house. You domestic domestic dog doesn't have got to be a puppy to be trained.

You necessitate to first take a suitable topographic point outside your house where your dog can alleviate himself. When you have got establish a suitable place, acquire your domestic dog acquainted to that area. Let your domestic dog pass a batch of clip in that area. When your domestic domestic dog have relieved itself, move it away from the country for sometime.

Do this respective modern times and your dog will begin apprehension that that country outside the place is meant for it relieving itself. Please, don't be rough on your domestic dog while trying to house railroad train it. It takes clip for some domestic dogs to acquire usage to certain new wonts or routines. Honor your domestic domestic domestic dog every clip it follows your house preparation directives.

Restrict the motion of your dog to the country you have got got chosen for it to alleviate itself, during time periods when you have noticed your dog usually relieves itself. This is where observation come ups in on your part. There are other quicker methods of getting your domestic domestic domestic dog house trained which I have got got tried and go on to utilized in my dog preparation work.

I have gotten my cognition from some of the top experts in the animate being social welfare and dog preparation industry. You too can larn from these experts to. You can have got entree to the same first-class information I go on to use with great results.

But, I must warn you to be cautious when trying to choose information to house railroad train your dog. Not every information out there is good for your type of dog. You necessitate to be careful not to permanently harm your domestic dog with the incorrect preparation methods or techniques. Dogs are cherished and must be treated well.

There are many websites, books, preparation pictures and other resources available to assist you house railroad train your domestic dog the right way. This manner your domestic dog will not be harmed by the many incorrect preparation methods out there. Some people just purchase and purchase many different domestic domestic dog preparation materials, when all they really necessitate is tested and proved information.

To successfully house railroad train a dog you have got to do up your head that this is of import adequate for you, to acquire the necessary information you need. If you have got not made up your head to get the cognition or tools you need, then am bad to state it might be hard for you to quickly house railroad train your dog. But, if you have got got made up your mind, then you will quickly have a domestic domestic domestic dog trained for cleanliness at home.

If you can't take the clip to make what you necessitate to learn your dog, then there's no point in disbursement your money getting preparation stuffs on how to house railroad train your dog. You necessitate to recognize that its wiser to pass your money on good, domestic domestic dog house preparation stuff than disbursement much more than money on cleansing your house.

You can successfully house railroad train your dog, all you necessitate is forbearance and the right information.

Why is Dressing Your Dog in Dog Clothes So Fashionable?

2007-09-14T14:53:00.001-07:00

Do you get dressed your dog? If you do, you are not alone. Doggie apparel is becoming a money devising industry as more than than and more domestic domestic domestic domestic dog proprietors see the benefits to their domestic dogs wearing certain dog clothes.

For instance, dog's paws are subjected to hot come ups in the summertime and extremely cold in the winter, depending on where you and your dog live. This tin cause uncomfortableness to your dog's paws until they toughen up. Once they acquire calloused, those nice soft pads of paper go scratchy and uncomfortable to you the proprietor whenever you acquire pawed. You can protect your dog's paws with place or boots.

As far as the outfits are concerned, some domestic dogs are extremely thankful for a warm sweater or jacket when they travel for a walking in cold or rainy weather. Dogs with short hair or thin tegument are much more than susceptible to the cold than a domestic dog with a heavy coat of hair. I am certain you have got seen domestic dogs shivering when outside. That is a domestic domestic dog that would be glad to have on an equip for warmth.

There is another good ground to outfit your dog in the up-to-the-minute fashion. It is fun. It is not only merriment for the owner, but introduced correctly, your domestic dog will bask being dressed up, too. There are many domestic domestic dog outfits to take from to do shopping for your dog a pleasure. If you like to take your domestic dog to societal occasions, different outfits for different occasions are a must. You would not have on a t-shirt and blue jean to a formal, so neither should your dog.

Going to political parties can go even more than particular when including your dog. You can even have got domestic domestic dog political parties just for dog owners. Each juncture necessitates a particular outfit. Now domestic dog proprietors can happen costumes for Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, Valentine's Day, and other particular occasions.

Everyday wear is great for domestic dogs and their owners. You can get dressed alike. Your domestic dog can go the high spot of the twenty-four hours for those who see him. He/she volition not only have tons of love and admiration, but you will brighten up the twenty-four hours for others as well. That is healthy for everyone.

So, dressing your domestic dog in clothes can be functional and fun. It is a growth fad. Many are enjoying near human relationships with their domestic dogs and making new friends because of domestic dog clothes. Rich Person fun. Be certain to give your domestic dog a clinch and maintain them feeling a portion of the family.

Does Your Dog Really Need a Dog Bed?

2007-09-13T08:11:00.001-07:00

By observing your pet, you will have got a better thought of what merchandise to look for as his day-to-day comfy resting place. If you adopted a domestic dog from the lb he may actually prefer his ain place. So a domestic dog bed is really necessary, but what type make you acquire and what should you look for?

What to See in a Dog Bed

First off you necessitate to detect your domestic dogs behavior. Bashes he like to remain warm under the blankets? Bashes he like to be able to rest his caput with a position of the full room? Bashes he avoid the bed because he necessitates to chill off? These behaviours will assist you narrow down your hunt for the ideal domestic domestic dog bed.

Some Of The Benefits of a High Quality Dog Bed

The type of dog bed you take depends on your laniary and its preferences. Picking the right domestic dog bed can be a large aid with allergic reaction alleviation and clean up. It can give you a chief country where the bulk of the sloughing and/or dander is contained.

For aged dogs, or domestic domestic dogs with problems, thick orthopedic mattresses filled with medical-grade froth or even a boxspring are ideal. Some even come up heated up but if not you can purchase a warming pad. Some pads of paper are warmed in the microwave and some stopper in. The type you take will depend on where the bed will travel and how long the pad of paper necessitates to remain heated. Older domestic dogs bask sleeping more than and playing less.

A domestic dog bed lets your pet to have got his ain space, a topographic point where he can curve up, loosen up and sleep. A hound dog that kips in a tight curled up place might prefer a unit of ammunition bed with sides. Dogs don't like to experience exposed especially when they're trying to sleep. In this lawsuit you might look at a support bed with a high back. This gives your domestic dog a safe, cosy oasis as well as being ideal for a nice pillow to rest his head. It can also forestall bills of exchange and can protect your walls from harm while your domestic domestic dog sleeps.

If you cannot measurement your dog when he is laying down, you can also measurement from the alkali of the cervix to the alkali of the tail and then add 5 inches.

More traditional-style cushioned out-of-door beds are made of tough polyester and defy mold and fungus. However if your domestic domestic dog is extremely sensitive to cold or agony from arthritis, a heated up dog bed might supply the other comfortableness he needs. Similar to humans, domestic dogs also experience alterations as they age. Their articulations can stiffen, or their castanets go thinner.

A strenuous twenty-four hours can intend an eventide of uncomfortableness with a pulled musculus or painful joints. A good night's slumber in a quality domestic dog bed will assist your pet recover. When a domestic domestic dog proprietor believes about what merchandises will be needed for their new pet, a high quality dog bed should be well up on the list.

Dealing With Dog Chewing Problems

2007-09-11T13:26:00.001-07:00

It is a natural activity for your domestic dog to masticate on things, but this doesn't intend they have got to masticate on Your Things. If you are dealing with domestic dog chewing problems, then you should cognize there are stairway you can take to continue your valuables. Here are some simple tips to acquire you started in the right direction.

Provide Alternatives

Acknowledge that your domestic dog necessitates to masticate on something, as it is simply his instinct. Supply an adequate supply of masticate playthings and castanets for him to take from. You should also seek different spirits and assortments of toys. By experimenting with different options you might come up across an blink of an eye solution to your problem.

Setup a Safe Zone

Although you never desire to confine your pet to little quarters, it might do sense to make a room in your house where he can't destruct anything valuable. This is a good technique to utilize while you are working through chewing problems. It is also a great manner to incorporate some of the chewing options discussed previously.

Use Deterrents

The fantastic thing about the growth pet supply marketplace is that there is seemingly a merchandise for everything. This includes a broad choice of anti-chewing applications. These spray expressions bring forth a acrimonious taste sensation to anything they are applied to. When treated regularly, you can acquire rid of your dog's attractive force to furniture, shoes, and other popular chewing targets.

Reward Good Behavior

Sometimes we get so frustrated with breakage our dog's bad wonts that we stop up in a rhythm of negative reprimands. It is of import to pass on to your pet what bad behaviour is, but it is also of import to honor good behavior. Brand certain you promote your domestic dog to make the right things by commending him when he takes the right masticate toy. Use these points when you play with him so that he associates them with happiness.

Thousands of pet proprietors endure through chronic domestic dog chewing problems. The difference with those who successfully get rid of them lies in their strategy. Brand certain you are providing adequate masticate options and making sensible adjustments to put your domestic dog up for success. Some little forfeits in the early phases of this behaviour will travel a long manner to eliminating it.

How to Find the Perfect Pet Urn

2007-09-07T07:40:00.001-07:00

Pet Urns

When you lose a darling pet, it can almost be like losing one of the family. Many of us develop a stopping point human relationship with our pet, enjoying the unconditional love they always demo us, even when we've had a bad twenty-four hours and snapped at them. So if you've been lucky adequate to have got a particular pet in your life, it's a great thought to utilize a pet urn as a cherished souvenir of their life. You can set up to have got your dog, true cat or any other pet cremated, and then put their ashes in a pet urn as a cherished keepsake.

What Pet Urns are Available?

Pet urns are available in a immense assortment of styles, with different shapes, colours and sizes. Probably the best topographic point to get is to make up one's mind how much you can afford to pay for a pet urn. Then you'll be able to lodge to looking at urns you can afford, without getting carried away. The cheapest urns are usually the simpler, more than than than basic urns, and the more ornament and individualized touchings you add, the more expensive they get. If your budget is limited, you can always acquire a simple pet urn and then utilize other mementoes, such as as a collar, to make it special.

It's also a good thought to believe about what you desire to do with the urn. Many people bury them in the pace and works a commemoration tree. In that case, a simple urn is sufficient. However if you be after to set the pet urn on display, then it might be best to take a more than than luxuriant designing to assist do it attractive to look at.

If you've decided you desire to acquire a more cosmetic pet urn, there are plenty of assortments to take from. You can take a vase-shaped urn decorated with carving, right through to a life-sized replication of your pet. Perhaps you could take a pet urn with space to set some photographs of your pet, or a entombment urn that you can bury in the garden that come ups with a marker for placing in the land above the urn. You can even acquire favored urns shaped like stones or garden decorations if you desire to put the urn in your garden, but don't desire to bury it in lawsuit you travel house.

Pet Urn Personalization

Most people also like to personalise their pet urn in some way. It's quite common for pet urns to have got a brass plate attached, that you can take easily for engraving. Some urns tin also be optical maser engraved, and others integrate slots that can be used for inserting photos. Even if the pet urn is fairly basic, you can still put particular points around the urn to constitute a show of your loved pet's life.

Pet urns are available from a assortment of places, including veterinary clinics and pet crematoriums. You may happen that a crematory have a more than extended range, and they can manage the whole procedure for you. It's never easy to state adieu to a good friend, but choosing a pet urn can be a particular manner to maintain your pet's memory alive forever.

Wrought Iron Dog Beds - The Finest Looking Dog Beds Money Can Buy

2007-09-05T10:35:00.001-07:00

Dog hairs strewn across the sofa, on the bed? Many a domestic dog proprietor will state you they acquire everywhere and I've no uncertainty you've probably been through very much the same. Eventually preparation your domestic dog to maintain to the flooring and not leap up. What about at night? Bash you give in and allow him kip on your bed? Possibly letting him sleep on one of the armchairs of your life room? Maybe you have got a case-hardened outlook and give him a carpet to kip on in the kitchen.

Your domestic domestic domestic dog rates a good night's slumber especially if he's advancing in old age and even if he or she isn't, a dog that's had a good night's slumber will do for a much happier dog. It just looks apparent incorrect to do him kip on the flooring while the world of the house nap away with the comfortableness of mattresses, warm covers and eiderdowns to boot. So what can we make to acquire our domestic dog a good night's sleep? The lone options for many of us are to give in, have got understanding for our darling pet and allow him either kip on the bed or on the highly expensive three piece suite.

This of course of study demand not be the case. The up-to-the-minute further adjunct that every domestic domestic dog proprietor should not be without is a nice dog bed. Catered more than for the size of your domestic dog they are very similar in comfortableness and designing to a human's bed. They come up in many forms and sizes with different degrees of comfort.

So which kind should you get? Many designings take on a useful attack and can look quite ugly stuck in the corner of the room and would mainly be favored by proprietors who engender domestic dogs or maintain their domestic dog in a kennel. There are however some ace designings out there that tin add to the décor of any room in your home. A house favourite at present among domestic dog proprietors is the wrought Fe design. Truly classical, elegant, a wrought Fe domestic domestic domestic dog bed will do your dog expression and experience nil short of regal as he daydreams away of coneys and bones.

Wrought Fe dog beds not only have got advantages in sees to looks. They are also extremely difficult wearing. One of these volition last a lifespan and a dog, of course of study will never masticate though wrought iron!

But what about the mattress? I hear you ask. Most wrought Fe domestic dog beds are top of the scope points and will usually have the high-grade sprung mattresses just like your ain bed. Some even have got a pillow supplied. Add to this some bedclothes and your domestic domestic dog have the best bed money can buy.

A dog bed of this quality demand not be the Earth. Initially some of the bigger beds may look a small expensive but you're gaining a piece of piece of furniture that is of extremely high quality, will decorate any life room or sleeping room and will endure years, possibly generations. Last but certainly not least, your domestic dog will love you for it!

Dog Training Leash - Picking the Right One

2007-08-30T12:40:00.001-07:00

So you thought you had everything for your pet. You bought food, H2O dishes, toys, treats, some more than toys, a crate, and who cognizes what else. But did you in fact by a preparation leash? If you're wish most people you only bought a little leash, perhaps six feet in length, or maybe even a retractable one.

So why not purchase a preparation leash? You are planning on preparation your pet right? If so then you will desire to acquire a much longer tether that tin be used during your preparation sessions. These tethers are quite simply longer one piece leashes, usually made of nylon or leather (much more than expensive), and come up sizes that scope from 20 feet to 50 or 100 feet. So which one should you get? Take these factors into consideration.

The size of your dog.

This should travel without saying but I see people using 30 ft tethers on a Yorkshire terrier and the yorkie never travels more than then 10 feet away. In the same manner, if you have got a greyhound, shepherds, or other big domestic dog that loves to run, you cannot work with lone a 6 ft leash. You have got to utilize some common sense here folks. Small domestic domestic dogs can acquire away with littler leashes, and the retractable 1s are quite common with little dogs. I make not urge retractable 1s for big domestic domestic domestic dogs as they can easily snap them or masticate through it when you're not watching.

The energy degree of your dogs.

I have got two dogs in preparation right now. Both are German Shepherds. The male is much more than laid back then the female, and makes not necessitate nearly as much running play time. The female have much more than energy then even I do, and a longer tether on her lets me to allow her tally without having to chase after her. When she palls out I can switch over to a shorter tether if needed.

Your ain energy levels.

If you're a jogger and make not mind running around the pace with your domestic dog running along side of you, a short 1 will likely do. But if you are not in the best of form then you're not likely to maintain up with your pet for long. Dogs, especially bigger and little dogs, will have got more than energy, and can outrun all but the fastest humans. If your domestic dog acquires away from you, you might not be able to catch them. This could be black if you're come out of the closet in public.

Leashes are cheap when you see the overall cost of pet ownership. Bash yourself a favour and acquire 1 short one for normal walks, and a longer one for training. Gauge your individual demands as to how long of one you should get. Keep in head the factors above and the determination goes easier.

Looking for a New Pet - Check Your Local Shelter First and Help Save a Life

2007-08-28T15:12:00.001-07:00

Are you thinking about adding a furry new member to your family, and you really have got your bosom set on a certain breed? Well, I promote you to jump the promenade and local stock breeder and do your first halt your local pet shelter.

Every year, billions (yes, millions) of unwanted true cats and domestic dogs are euthanized in pet shelters. The bulk of those animate beings were fully acceptable for adoption, but because of space limitations, had to be set to death. It's such a sad state of affairs and I'm hoping that more than people would travel out and salvage some of these loving animate beings from their at hand decease sentences.

I currently have got got two incredibly loving domestic dogs and two fabulous true cats and they have all been rescued from shelters. Not a twenty-four hours travels by where I don't retrieve picking them out from the 100s of available pets all anxiously waiting for person to pick them to travel home. It just interrupts my heart. And if you've never been to a pet shelter, I would strongly promote you to see one, or even volunteer at one. I vouch that once you put ft in one of those places, you'll never purchase a pet from a pet shop or private stock breeder again.

A batch of people have got the misconception that lone curs end up at the shelter. That's the furthest thing from the truth. There are many pure bred pets at shelters (some volition even come up with AKC papers) that demand loving homes. And really, there's nothing incorrect with a mutt. Both of my domestic dogs are mutts, and they are truly the best comrades I could ever inquire for.

Sadly, "behavioral issues" is one of the most popular grounds for dumping an animate being at a shelter. The truth is, the pet proprietor never realized how much clip and attempt it is to take attention of a pet, especially a dog. The proprietor got caught up in the emotion of having a new puppy, and the "how cunning is he?" syndrome and didn't put much idea into "how make I take attention of this animal?" Typically, those "behavioral issues" would never have got got even go issues if the pet proprietor took the clip to have obedience-trained the dog. It's just so sad.

One of the other popular grounds for surrendering a pet is "I'm moving and can't take it with me." This 1 do me so upset, I can't even set it into words. I have got got had many animate beings for the last 15 old age and have probably moved at least 10 to 12 modern times in that clip period, and I never gave up my pets. I always made certain to look for topographic points (when I was renting) where pets were allowed. If they weren't, I'd go on looking until I establish one. Unfortunately, many people don't recognize that pets are truly members of the household and should be treated as such. They add so much profusion to day-to-day life, and just dwell to love us unconditionally. It's so sad when they don't acquire the same treatment in return.

If you're not certain where to begin looking for shelters, PetFinder.com is the perfect topographic point to start. You can take what breed, type of animal, sexual activity and size pet you are looking for, and then set in your nothing codification and VOILA! It makes all the legwork for you. Once you begin seeing photographs of all those poor, stateless animals, you will be wishing you could follow them all (I cognize I do).

When you make happen a possible animal, travel visit it at the shelter to see if it will be compatible with your household members (including other pets). Find out if it's been trained as a batch of shelters railroad train their pets in order for them to go more than adoptable. Also, do certain to happen out if it have any particular wellness needs. If it makes and you cognize you won't have got the clip to give to the pet's needs, you will necessitate to happen a more than acceptable pet to suit with your life style and schedule. This volition be difficult to make once you fall in love with that fluff ball, but it's in the pet's best involvement so it doesn't weave up back in the shelter.

If the domestic dog makes demand to be trained, there are many topographic points you can travel for that training. Personally, I took both of my domestic dogs to PetSmart® for 6-week obeisance preparation social classes which were well-worth both my money and my time. My domestic domestic dogs started out as the worst behaved dogs (thanks to former owners) to "Top Dogs", which was ace cool. I invested a batch of my clip and energy preparation them and it showed - they are both very well behaved. Just like children, domestic dogs desire and demand to have got regulations and boundaries.

And I must briefly touch upon the topic of puppy Mills StopPuppyMills.org for distressing facts about puppy mills). I never have, and decline to, purchase a true cat or domestic dog at a pet shop. It's just so sad that the bulk of these animate beings were bred in puppy or kitty Mills and have got been subjected to distressing life conditions. I cognize you're probably thinking, "but why not salvage one of these animate beings and give it a good home?" Well, this is portion of the barbarous rhythm involving pet stores as well as "backyard breeders."

Many people purchase pets from these stores because of guilty feelings, the store proprietors and Mills do tons of money, and the purchase of the pet go forths space to suit yet another factory animal. To add abuse to injury, many of these factory animate beings are so ill because of serious in-breeding, starvation, and other disgustful life situations. Sadly, many pet proprietors end up euthanizing their animate beings after a few calendar months of buying them just because the animate beings are so sick. Volition this disgustful rhythm ever end?

My article was not meant to be a sad and blue one. Rather, I just wanted to edify future pet proprietors of the suffering states of affairs these animate beings are placed in every twenty-four hours and just hoping that more than than and more people will follow loving pets from shelters and assist end the barbarous rhythm of puppy and kitty Mills once and for all.

So, if you are planning on getting a pet, please, please, delight bank check your local shelter first. And delight recognize that whether these animate beings are pure or amalgamated breeds, they all have got one thing in common: they just desire to love and be loved. And that's all that really should matter.

7/19/07

Dog Food

2007-08-23T15:21:00.001-07:00

Switching Dog Foods can Affect your Dog

If you experience that your domestic domestic domestic domestic domestic dog is not benefiting adequate from the dog nutrient you are giving them, there is nil incorrect with switching dog food.

If you have got seen symptoms of an allergic reaction in your dog or they look to be agony from any type of gastrointestinal illnesses, you may necessitate to switch over their dog food. Signs of troubles that may be caused by domestic dog nutrient can include diarrhea, inordinate gas, bloating, or vomiting. To find if it is the domestic domestic domestic dog nutrient causing your domestic dogs wellness problems, you can switch over your dog nutrient type and ticker your dog for improvements in these areas. If your domestic domestic domestic domestic dog betters in wellness after a few years of switching dog nutrient types to an all natural dog nutrient nutrient or organic food, you will cognize that there were ingredients of the first dog nutrient that was contributing your domestic dogs gastrointestinal health. You can discourse the possibilities of domestic dog nutrient causes for your domestic dogs state of affairs with your veterinarian, and you can also discourse possible options for switching foods. This tin aid you to find if changing domestic dog nutrients will assist your domestic domestic dogs wellness or if there is some other cause relating to your dogs illness or allergies. By determining this first, you can forbear from switching domestic dog nutrients before it is necessary. This is of import because, even though switching the type of domestic domestic dog nutrient your dog eats may stop up being inevitable, doing so too early or too often may do more than harm. If it is not the nutrient causing difficulties, you may switch over over to a nutrient for no reason, which can irritate your domestic dogs tummy and cause problems.

Aside from existent illnesses, there are many grounds people switch domestic domestic dog food, and many modern times it is overall dog health. You may see a type of nutrient that offerings more benefits than the nutrient you are currently feeding your dog, and so to accomplish better domestic domestic dog health, you switch over them. Or, you may make up one's mind that you desire to offer your domestic domestic dog better dog wellness by changing them to an all-natural light with no processed foods. For some people, the type of domestic domestic domestic dog nutrient is switched often so their dog have variety, and have nil at all to make with dog health. Unfortunately, this is not always a good idea. If your domestic domestic domestic dog looks to be perfectly healthy on the dog nutrient are currently eating, it is often best not to switch over dog food.

Controlling Diabetes in your Dog

2007-08-22T09:10:00.001-07:00

Diabetes in domestic domestic domestic dog may happen when your dog ages or is given the incorrect dog food. The greatest perpetrator would be the commercial type domestic domestic dog food.

Typical dog nutrients incorporates fillers that may lend or even be the direct cause of diabetes. Ingredients in domestic dog nutrient that may take to diabetes are sugar, rice (including rice flour and rice gluten) dried common beet pulp, maple sirup and maize sirup .

Affected domestic dogs develop increased appetency and thirst, increased urination, fatigue, weight loss and/or infections that are difficult to heal. They normally have got high refined refined sugar degrees in the blood and also sugar in their urine.

There is no remedy if your domestic dog have developed diabetes. You can only command it. Controlling Diabetes in your domestic domestic dog includes changing your dog diet, regular exercising modus operandi and in some terrible lawsuits may include day-to-day insulin injection.

Diabetic Dog Food is high in fibre. Such type of domestic dog nutrient incorporates many grains such as as millet, oats, Indian meal and brewer's yeast. Food that are high in fiber and complex saccharide will assist to take down the blood refined sugar level.

Diabetic domestic domestic domestic domestic domestic dog nutrient are not inexpensive and cost very much more than than normal dog food.

Some pet proprietors take to travel the natural path and provender their dog homemade dog nutrient or as some may name it, natural dog food. You tin guarantee that there is no hazard of fillers that can heighten the illness. You choose the nutrient that are high in fiber and yet at the same clip offering your domestic domestic domestic domestic dog assortment . These type of homemade dog nutrient or natural dog nutrient is cost much cheaper than the commercially available diabetic dog food. Guarantee that more than than 40% of the calories come ups from complex saccharide and less than 20% from fats.

Exercise is indispensable to domestic dog health. Daily exercising modus operandis such as as long walkings is necessary . This type of activity can assist maintain domestic dog wellness in the best status possible, even when diabetes is present. If your domestic dog have good adequate health, you will desire to allow them pass clip outside running and playing, even if you cannot travel on walks. You make not have got to wait until your domestic dog have diabetes to change his diet. Brand the electric switch now to homemade domestic domestic domestic domestic domestic dog nutrient .

Do also retrieve that diabetic domestic dogs may also develop cataracts ( in improver to other jobs such as as bosom disease) which eventually takes to sightlessness . Keep your veterinarian assignment make the necessary blood and piss diagnostic test so that your dog wellness can be monitored properly.

If you truly love your dog , make you desire your dog to be healthy and with you as long as possible ? ..................

written by : aprilliza Varsya, 10 twelvemonth school miss ( with plentifulness of aid from her dog bogeyman and her dad)

When Pets Hate Their Owners

2007-06-01T19:02:00.001-07:00

I love pets and have had pets in my home since I was a child. But I had this one parrot that hated my guts. It got so bad that when ever we let it out of its cage it would fly right over to me and begin pecking me on the head. It got to the point where I had to wear an army helmet around the house.

Not only that but it had a vocabulary a sailor would be proud of. Every time I entered my home it would start cursing me out in the most vulgar fashion you could imagine. It was a good thing we didn't have children.

I picked this parrot up at the Humane Society. I didn't know who the previous owner was and didn't know what ordeals this parrot had gone through in the past. All I knew was that it hated my guts.

But it loved my wife. Oh that parrot would sing to her for hours at a time. And it was always on its best behavior around my wife when I wasn't around. When my wife fed the parrot it would say - please and thank you. When my wife talked to the parrot it would talk right back to my wife as if they were holding a conversation.

But it hated my guts. Why? I'm not sure. Maybe I resembled its previous owner and maybe the previous owner had mistreated it? I don't blame the parrot and I didn't take it personally. It was just an innocent animal.

Anyhow, one day after work I opened the front door of my home and there was the parrot flying around the living room. When it spotted me it made a bee line straight for my head. My army helmet was no where to be seen so I did the only reasonable thing possible - I ducked.

The parrot flew right past me and out the front door - and kept on going. It didn't stop and it didn't turn around to say good-bye. We never saw that parrot again.

That was the only pet I have ever had that hated my guts. I'll never know why but like I said I don't blame the parrot. It was just an innocent animal. But there is one thing I do know - I don't miss that parrot one single bit.

Pet Euthanasia - Making That Most Difficult Decision

2007-05-31T12:50:00.001-07:00

One of the most troubling things in life is having to deal with a seriously ill pet, a pet that literally is on its last legs. As a corollary of that trauma, one of the most difficult decisions that a person can face in life is making the determination as to whether or not the time has come to euthanize a beloved companion animal.

There are some factors that you can weigh and balance to assist you in your own decision making process when it comes to dealing with end of life issues of a much loved pet.

The Issue is About Your Pet -- Not You

Oftentimes when a person has a very ill pet, you hear that person make statements to the effect of:

"I am really going to Miss Rover" or "I don't know what I will do without Fluffy" or (worst of all) "I am going to keep Boxer until the bitter end."

In other words, these men and women are putting their own feelings and interests before those of their pet. They seem to be overlooking the fact that it is the pet that is in dire pain.

When it comes to making these life or death decisions involving your pet, it is important to keep in mind that while you might have feelings, it is the feelings of your pet -- particularly the pain your pet is suffering -- that must be your paramount concern.

Consult with a Vet Early and Often

It is very important that you keep your vet closely involved in the process of determining when the time is right to euthanize your pet. Your vet will have been down this road many times. You vet will be able to five you unbiased and coolheaded advice about whether or not the time has come to bring about your pet's final passing.

It also is very important that you take your vet's advice seriously. There really will be no reason for you not to follow the advice of your vet if he or she finally concludes that the time has arrived to euthanize your companion animal. As mentioned, your vet will be unbiased and objective and will be better able to gauge what level of pain your pet is going through.

Should You be There for the End?

One question that may be haunting you is whether or not you should be present in the room when the time comes to euthanize your pet. In fact, some vet clinics have rules against having owners in the room during that procedure. Therefore the question actually may be resolved for you from the start. You may not even have the option of being present in the procedure room for the procedure.

However, if the vet or clinic does give you the option to be present at the time your pet actually is euthanized, you need to be very thoughtful about the decision you make. The ultimate question needs to be whether or not you can really provide your pet with any true comfort during those final moments and how painful the procedure will be for you. This is the juncture in the whole process when you can think of your own feelings and emotions. Moreover, you will not want to have the memory of your pet's death be the final memory that is etched into your mind.

The Good The Bad-Puppy Training Pads

2007-05-29T10:37:00.001-07:00

Puppy training pads are well known by many puppy owners, some owners don't prefer them and others couldn't imagine living without them, The best way to get your dog to use the training pads, you want him or her to use so bad, is with time and patience. After a week or so of trying to teach them, they will begin to pick up the idea you are stressing.

Dog's and puppies both can understand body language very well, your dog can read you especially when your getting angry with them. Although some dogs just will never understand and rather then doing there duty on the puppy pads they decide to tear it up or eat it, Pug's especially.

There are a number of different puppy training pad products available online and off, the most common name brands are, Pet Gold, Clean Go and Out, there are many others as well and while some don't do as good of a job as the more popular name brands do.

The most common problems with puppy training pads are tracking problems, and leaking issue's. Most people get overwhelmed with the problem or get upset and give up with them all together. Then the next best thing comes along, the puppy pad tray stopping this problem right in it's tracks. the puppy pad tray really does a great job at protecting your floors when the pads leak. But leaks only happen when using generic brands.

Most puppies will break the habit of using there indoor training pads around three months, it's not really suggested to use training pads if your dog is of bigger size, but older dogs will use them. The best way to teach an already trained dog (older dogs) to use training pads is to leave them with no alternative's, and with persistence and patience they to will make use of the dog training pads. If you have a large house, you may want to place pads in several areas of the house.

Puppy training pads have great benefits to them such as, they make it a very easy clean up, most have a scented smell to them, encourages them to eliminate in specific areas. Most pads have a scientically treated with an attractant to encourage pets to the pad. the days of using news papers and magazines are over.

The Separation Anxiety Dog - How to Protect Your Dog From Home When You Leave Home

2007-05-22T16:25:00.001-07:00

If you've got a dog that suffers from dog separation anxiety then you are probably afraid to leave your dog alone. After all, dogs with dog separation anxiety experience a sense of panic whenever their owners leave and are likely to "act out" in this anxious and panic-stricken state. Therefore, if you have a dog with dog separation anxiety, he may chew, mutilate, urinate or defecate on your furniture when he is left alone. In addition, he may seem extremely anxious and frenzied when you arrive home. With this in mind, you can protect your separation anxiety prone dog from harm when you leave home. The key to this is to engage him in a behavior modification program and to take a preventive approach to protecting your home and your pet when you go out. In this article, we'll discuss 5 ways that you can protect your pet and your home when you leave your dog home alone. Here's how:

1. Confine him. Some people think that confining a dog is inhumane; however, it is the safer thing to do. After all, dogs with separation anxiety are prone to feeling anxious and engage in all sorts of frenzied and dangerous activities. Therefore, they are safer confined. With this in mind, many people use a crate or confine their dog with a dog or bay gate. Both methods prevent him from wandering around. In my opinion, a crate is a favorite choice because it keeps your dog in one place and can even help him feel safe and secure in your absence. After all, a dog's natural instinct is to retire in his den and a crate is similar to a den. Regardless of which method you choose, a gate or crate will protect your furniture and household items and keep your dog from harm.

2. Remove dangerous objects. Dogs with separation anxiety typically experience panic when their owners leave home. In fact, many of them resort to a panicked state and they are likely to become destructive and even to put things in their mouths. Just like infants, dogs can't differentiate between good and bad things and sometimes innocent items like string, thread, floss, coins, clips, etc. can end up lodged in their digestive tract and cause them harm, so make sure that you remove these items before you leave home.

3. Remove your dog's tags. This is especially important if your dog is prone to excessive rocking, swaying or moving around in a frenzied state when you leave him alone. By removing his tags, you can ensure that they don't get caught in his crate or gate, which can cause him harm.

4. Protect electrical cords. Many dogs with separation anxiety will chew on objects (especially dangerous electrical cords) when their owners leave. To protect your dog, buy electrical cord protectors from the hardware store. These clever devices are plastic strips that conceal dangerous wires. Another option is "smart power strips." These can sense if your dog bites into them and will immediately shut off power to protect your dog. Another option is to spray furniture and other items with bitter apple, which will prevent him from chewing on them as most dogs dislike the taste immensely.

5. Provide safe alternatives. Many dogs with dog separation anxiety often roam the house looking for their absent human companions. Therefore, you should close toilet seats, remove chemical cleaning products, shut doors and place bitter apple on items you don't want your dog to chew on. Instead, provide your dog with safe alternatives like a special bone or toy that is only available when you leave.

In conclusion, dog separation anxiety can be difficult and frustrating. However, if you take the necessary precautions to protect your dog from harm, you can ensure that he'll be safe in your absence and you'll feel better about leaving him alone.

What Food Is Safe For Your Pet?

2007-05-21T08:43:00.001-07:00

Now a days, dozens of commercial products are available in the market so that you can take good care of your pet.

Many of us get confused when it comes to feed our pets. What food is safer, commercial food or homemade food?

Let us have a look at these issues in details.

The first thing to remember is that the food that can spoil the health of your pet can come for any source.
It can be commercial or homemade food as well. We should just make sure that whatever we are giving to our pet, should not be contaminated.

Food borne illness in your pets can be because of some bacterial infections, mycotoxins, metals, chemicals etc.

Some toxins such as mycotoxins are produced by fungus. The one fourth part of entire world's crop is affected by tiny molds.
This mycotoxin litigation has been proved to be a big pain for the food industry.

People often can not differentiate between 'food poisoning' and 'food infection'. They are two different things.

Food infection is a result of ingestion of microbial cells that are infectious. They attack the tissues of your pet and start reproducing.

Mostly, clinical decease does not become visible before 12 hours at least.

Food poisoning results from the food that contains a microbial toxin already.

The symptoms of food poisoning appear more rapidly, may be within an hour.

So, now you must have understood the essence of our articles. Whenever you prepare homemade food for your pet, always make sure it is hygienic and if you are going to buy some commercial product, take some help from the people who already feed their pets in the same way.

When you know a product is right, you can go for it.

The Holistic Approach to Dog Separation Anxiety

2007-05-19T20:16:00.001-07:00

While the majority of our canine companions can handle being left alone in the house, there are others who can be so traumatized by their owner's departure that they engage in destructive behavior. This behavior is a response to stress and can come in the form of barking, howling, going to the bathroom indoors, and destroying things like your furniture and shoes.

Dogs are pack animals and therefore social by nature, which is why they feel the most secure when surrounded by members of their human or canine family. A puppy should be taught early on how to be away from their owner and left by themselves for a bit. Unfortunately, that's not always possible, however, it is always possible for a dog of any age to develop separation anxiety.

Many pet owners are turning to a holistic approach to their dog's separation anxiety, which includes special care for their nutritional and physical needs as well as their emotional ones. Some natural, holistic remedies for dog separation anxiety include:

Flower Essences and Herbal Remedies

When holistically treating a dog for separation anxiety, there are many herbal formulas that include ingredients such as ginger, chamomile, valerian root, passion and other natural flowers. While there are several herbs to choose from, a chronic, troublesome problem such as this should be treated in conjunction with behavioral modification and guidance from a holistic veterinarian who will be versed in the exact types and amounts of herbs and essences to use.

Named after British physician Dr. Edward Bach, Bach flower essences, sometimes called Bach flower remedies, are a combination of 38 plants and flowers known for their healing properties. They include clematis, cherry plum, and impatiens and have been successful in treating anxiety disorders in humans as well as dogs. Flower essences have proven to be quite safe with very little chance of side effects and can easily be administered orally, added to their water, or even rubbed onto the skin near the ears and paws.

Nutrition, Exercise and Behavior Modification

Plenty of rigorous exercise on a regular basis will not only help your dog's physical self, but it also keeps their mental health in tip-top shape as well. Keeping with the holistic approach, it's essential that you feed your dog a diet free of chemical preservatives and similar toxins.

Your dog isn't the only one who needs to modify his behavior to correct his or her separation anxiety. It's up to you to facilitate the process by changing how you act. Watch TV with your shoes on, keys in hand, to confuse your dog. Leave the house via the back door if you normally leave through the front. Changing your routine will make your dog less able to predict departures and be less likely to experience separation anxiety after you've gone.

What Doesn't Work for Dog Separation Anxiety

Never punish your dog in any way as a reaction to his separation anxiety. This only makes matters worse by confusing him and adding to his stress. It's important to keep in mind that behavior exhibited by a dog in response to separation anxiety is not a way of "punishing" or "getting even" with his owner for leaving him alone. When a dog destroys furniture or bedding and urinates inside the house, he is not doing it for revenge, it's simply an uncontrolled response to his fear and anxiety of being left alone.

How to Stop Dog Barking

2007-05-18T14:12:00.001-07:00

Do you want a well-behaved dog? A dog that wont run outside and bark at every person that walks past your house, a dog that won't pee on your carpet, a dog that wont bite your ankles as you walk past.

I am going to show you 3 very important training tips that will make your dog completely house trained and stop that annoying barking.

1. Catch your dog in the act. This is one of the most important rules to stop your dog from barking. Try not to let your dog get away with it at any time. Even if it means following them around yard. Use a strong voice and say "NO" when they start barking if they continue, tie them up away from the fence or whatever they were barking at.

Eventually they will learn that if they continue, they will be tied up. This is an effective way to stop dog barking.

You can also use electronic barking collars however I do not recommend this. For this to work you will need to have them working all the time.

Barking is part of dogs nature, using an electric collar is taking something natural away from them. I also believe these collars are the lazy solution so stop dog barking.

2. Don't change your dogs sleeping, eating or potty locations. If you mix up these locations your dog will become confused and not know where to go to the toilet etc.

Keep the NO areas consistent. Before you even go to the pet store to buy a dog you should know where the do can and cannot go. Make it clear from the very start otherwise house training your dog can take much longer then you want.

3. It's a family thing. Anybody who notices the dog barking should apply the training methods to stop this problem. One person can not be responsible for stoping a dog from barking because you need to catch the dog in the act for it to work

These are the most important factors in training your dog. However you must remember there are many other points to consider to successfully train a dog. Different dogs will learn your specific house rules at different rates but the most import thing is to not give up and do not let your dog get away with bad habits.

For the best programs on how to train a dog we recommend you visit www.edoghelp.com. eDoghelp has reviewed the Internet's most popular programs on how to train a dog.

Pet Safety

2007-05-16T19:55:00.001-07:00

Just how safe is your pet, especially when it is out in the yard? Can other animals get to it or harm it? Can it get into the traffic and be hit by a vehicle? What about it's safety regarding children and other people? Did you know it can take only a few minutes for even a well trained pet to get mad at and harm a human if provoked or tormented? I have seen these things happen with my own eyes, and the outcomes in all circumstances can hurt in more ways than one.

There are so many animals that get hit by vehicles unnecessarily. All because they may have been curious at what they may have seen on the opposite side of the street, or because they were playing with their owner or a child, and happen to chase a ball or Frisbee that headed into the roadway.

I have seen first hand, animals attack each other, just because of wanting to have dominance, or there's a jealousy factor. I also know of instances where children were harming an animal just out of the fun of doing so. The animal actually withstood a good lot of it, until finally it had enough because it was beginning to hurt the animal. The animal decided to defend itself and hurt back, and the outcome ended up where the animal had to be put down.

I live in an area which is kind of like a mini town in a rural area. The speed limit is only 30 mph, but how many people do you know that actually drive the speed limit? Within seven years of living in this little hamlet of a town, I watched at least 10 animals get hit and killed by vehicles on one road alone. Sometimes, I feel like people just don't care, whether it be the owner or the one who done the damage.

About 50% of my neighborhood thinks I am cruel to my dogs, because I put them on a chain when they are out in the yard to play or do their business. I feel it is for their safety because I love them. Others say it is cruel and ask how I would feel if I was put on a chain or leash.

There are other ways of course to keep your pets safe in the yard. There are fences you can put up, and/or even invisible fences now. I myself have an exceptionally large yard, and for me to try and put up fencing would be quite costly. As for now, I think the chain has been working quite well. My dogs are the only original dogs in the neighborhood from seven years ago. I think that speaks for itself.

And while we are on the subject of safety for your pets, it is extremely beneficial to make sure your pet is up to date on shots, as well as any other medications, and flea and tic repellant. It doesn't matter whether you live in the city or the country, there is always a potential for your animal to be wounded, catch a disease from another animal, or to get infected by fleas and tics. Prevention is always better than having to endure the expense and consequences of sickness, the treatments and perhaps death.

Dog Training Hand Signals - 2 Important Commands You Can Teach Today

2007-05-15T13:48:00.001-07:00

Dog training hand signals are a great way to get to know your dog and form a permanent bond with him. It is fun for both you and your dog. While he is being trained to follow a verbal command you can teach him to follow hand signals as well. Training your pet using dog training hand signals can be very beneficial. If you need him to follow a command in a noisy or crowded area it may be impossible for him to hear you. Also as a dog ages they often lose their hearing.

When you begin training your dog one of the most important things to remember is to never spank or hit your dog. You want him to associate your hands with good things; rewards and affection, not pain. It's easy to get started. Begin with a few pieces of your dog's favorite treat and make sure he's hungry. You will start with a basic command and associate it with a hand gesture. With repetition your dog will begin to respond to the dog training hand signal. When he responds reward him with the treat.

Once your dog begins responding to the command you are giving him verbally, gradually stop using the verbal command. Use the dog training hand signal you have chosen for the command. Only when he responds using the hand signal is he rewarded with the treat.You will want to start with two basic commands. Once they have mastered these commands you will be able to move on to more advanced training. The basic commands to begin with in your dog training hand signal teachings are "sit" and "down".

To teach your dog to 'sit "have your dog stand directly in front of you. Hold his favorite treat in your hand. Teach him the verbal command and then add the hand signal you have chosen to represent "sit". Start by giving the chosen dog training hand signal. Keep your hands at your side, bringing it up and folding your hands as if to throw something. As you do this hold the treat near his nose, while guiding it upward. At he same time you are guiding his nose you will say the command, "sit". Give him the treat when he sits.

To teach him the "down" command, start with your dog sitting in front of you. Again, teach him the verbal command and then incorporate the hand signal for "down". The common command for "down" is to have your hand palm facing downward. You will slowly lower you hand to the ground. As you are using your hand to signal, continue repeating the verbal command. Slowly lift your hand over your head. Hold the treat in your fingers. Keeping your arm straight, slowly bring it down until it is hanging at your side. As the treat is passing over his nose, say "down" as you use the dog training hand signal. If he is successfully "down" he will be laying down with his paws and his head forward. When he goes "down" give him a reward.

A well trained dog is a pleasure to own. Your dog deserves to be well trained. He will know what is expected of him and know how to deliver. Taking the time to properly train your dog using dog training hand signals will bring years of pleasure to both of you. It is possible to train your dog at home. It requires patience and dedication. It will be time well spent though. Imagine the satisfaction you will gain when you have successfully trained your dog and can take him anywhere with pride. Get started today teaching your pet with dog training hand signals.

Pet Health Questions - Some Perspectives

2007-05-13T17:55:00.001-07:00

Whether you have a dog, cat, fish or rabbit, there are a number of pet health questions that are frequently asked. Everything from reproductive questions to pet health care questions are asked. To help you out with some questions you may have of your own, here are 6 frequently asked groups of pet health questions.

1. When should a puppy or kitten begin vaccinations? And how regularly are vaccinations required?

While the answer to these common pet care questions vary, the general rule of thumb is that pet vaccinations should commence at or around 8 weeks of age. It is commonly thought that further vaccinations should be given 4 months apart from each other, meaning puppies receive vaccinations at 8 months, 12 months and 16 months, while kittens receive them at 8 months and 12 months. However, although many vets would still have you believe that annual vaccinations are necessary, all veterinary protocols now indicate that they are not. Many experts believe that no vaccinations are required beyond 12 months of age. Others feel boosters may be necessary every 3 to 5 years

2. What are heartworms? Is it necessary to give preventative heartworm treatment?

Heartworms are parasites that live in your pet's heart. This is an extremely important pet health question to pay attention to because heartworms can become lethal to your pet. Heartworms are transmitted by mosquitoes, so in the Northern Hemisphere heartworm is certainly more prevalent during June to November. Heartworm prevention treatment is essential. Heartworm is considerably more common in dogs, but can and does occur in cats as well.

3. Are rabies vaccinations needed? Are rabies vaccinations mandatory?

Because of the serious affect rabies has on pets, it is vital that you give your dog the proper pet care, and vaccination for rabies is one such measure you can take. Rabies affects all mammals and the argument for inoculating your pet is that there is always the potential of a bat or other form of animal with rabies getting inside your house. But really, how likely is that in a city or suburban area? On the other hand, the arguments for and against rabies vaccinations can become moot in areas where the shots are mandatory. Check your local laws before deciding against vaccinating your pet against rabies. You could be breaking the law by not doing so.

4. How long does pregnancy last in a dog or cat? Is veterinary assisted labor and birth necessary?

This is a common pet health care concern because all species go through a reproductive cycle. The timeframe that a dog is pregnant for is 63 days and cats are pregnant for 61 days. Although pet owners who are experienced in overseeing dogs and cats give birth may not need the assistance of a veterinarian for the actual labor and birth, as soon as the puppies or kittens are born, they should be examined by a veterinarian within 24 hours.

5. How soon can a dog or cat be spayed after giving birth? Is spaying necessary?

If your dog or cat has experienced an unwanted pregnancy, you should be very concerned to ensure that it does not happen again. There are far too many unwanted puppies and kittens in this world. Generally you want to wait to spay your dog or cat until the puppies or kittens are weaned the mother's milk has dried up. As soon as these two phases have occurred, you can spay your pet.

6. Is it normal for a cat to vomit hairballs? What can you do to prevent hairballs from forming?

Certainly it is common for cats to groom themselves and ingest a large amount of fur while doing so. However, if your cat is vomiting hairballs, this means that the hair is not moving from the stomach to the small intestines. The proper pet care for his problem is to give your cat pastes, treats or food that is made to help dissolve the hairballs.

If you're a pet owner, you probably have an array of pet health questions on your mind. Although there are hundreds of common questions pet owners have, these are a few of the most frequently asked pet health questions.

Things You Must Know When Adopting A Shelter Dog

2007-05-12T11:45:00.001-07:00

If you are planning to adopt a dog from the shelter or have already done so, then read on to find out about the common behavioral problems your dog will have and one of the most common one is extreme hyperactivity.

After experiencing high anxiety levels and living a long life of boredom mixed with his nerves, a dog becomes hyperactive. When kept in a shelter too long, a dog spends much of its time pacing the cages and whining to get the attention of people. If a dog is locked up for so long with nothing to do, it may lead to its hyperactive behavioural problem.

After bringing the dog home into a bigger and more spacious environment, it may be stressed out by these new surroundings. Even though your home may be a very positive situation for your dog to live in, the changes are very stressful to it. It will consume some time for your dog to adjust to its new home, and old habits that it practices in the shelter such as pacing and crying out may be methods of coping.

Certain people think that to curb the dog's pacing and whining is to lock it up to keep it from moving around so much that may become quite irritating to the owner. But that is not the solution. By doing that, the hyperactive behaviour of the dog cannot be curbed on a long term basis. After all that exercise, it may cause the dog to be tired and it may stop the nervousness for awhile, but later on the hyperactivity will return.

Proper Training & Spending Time Together

Do some training with your dog, such as obedience training. It may rectify the problem by giving it some confidence and will help the dog pay attention to common commands like 'sit' or 'heel'. A trained dog tends to be more subdued, and will listen to commands and show less signs of hyperactivity.

By spending more time with your dog, it will help with its hyperactive problems, as training helps you bond with it more. When the training sessions are fun for your dog then its situation will improve. The more time your dog gets busy with training and playing the more the hyperactive habits will go away.

See below for more information on Dog Obedience Training.

Dog Behavior Training To Avoid House Soiling

2007-05-10T19:49:00.001-07:00

Owning a dog has its rewards. Every time you go home, you will be greeted by a friendly and excited bark, with a tail wagging. When you want to stroll around, you've got company that won't tire on you. And at night when you are deeply asleep, you are assured that you are safe knowing that brave and bright doggie is watching over for any suspicious movements or activity inside the house and outside of the door. But this reward comes with a problem, too. House soiling is a major problem of dog owners. To avoid this, consider the suggestions below on dog behavior training to avoid house soiling.

There are a number of reasons why our dogs prefer to poop or pee everywhere except the toilet bowl. Primarily, of course, the pup is acting on instinct and it will go whenever it feels to go. Another reason is that your dog has a medical condition that makes him urinate and defecate involuntarily. You need to see a vet if you suspect sickness is the likely cause of house soiling. Territorial marking, separation anxiety and phobias are other reasons why a dog house soils. Determine first the reasons why you dog pees involuntary.

Dog behavior training is a way to teach your dog the best trick of all: defecating outside the house. You can do this creating a defecating and urinating routine for your dog. Dogs learn through routine, if he constantly do an act and is rewarded for acting good, he will repeat the act because he associates the act with praise, kindness and reward from his master. In dog behavior training, the same principle applies.

When Is My Dog Too Old For That Haircut?

2007-05-09T10:49:00.001-07:00

Most dog owners prefer to have the breed haircut on their dogs. If they own a Cocker Spaniel they prefer to have the "Cocker clip". If they own a Bichon Friese they prefer a Bichon haircut. There are times when this to not the case. When the owner is dealing with stickers, skin problems or perhaps they just want something manageable. If you could ask the dog what type of haircut he wants I think that his reply would be "anything that makes my owner happy". But the question is, "When is the dog too old to have a breed haircut?".

Some people do not understand the difference between the time taken to clip a dog using clippers and the time taken to scissor a dog into a breed clip. So let me try and explain.

When a dog is in a clipper style haircut, during dog grooming the time it takes to wash and dry the dog is usually short. This means that the dog stands in the tub and on a table for a short time. When the dog is dry and ready for a haircut the time to do a clipper cut is relatively short. Usually it is not an issue if the dog has knots. The clippers will cut under the knots to remove them. Then the finishing scissor work is done on a clipper style haircut. The feet and the face must be done. Any long hair that the clippers missed must be cut off. And depending on the groomer, other areas of the dog are done. Normally is will take forty five minutes to an hour for all the stages of a basic clipper cut. And during the majority of this time the dog is asked to stand up.

When a dog is in a breed clip, usually the hair is at a length of at least one to two inches. Depending on the breed and the preference on the owner. The time is takes to wash and dry this length of hair is longer. This means that the dog must stand in the tub and on the drying table for a longer period of time. If a dog is getting a longer haircut, all the knots must be brushed out prior to the cut. This means more time spent standing on a table. For the breed clip it can take between one to two hours for all the stages of the haircut. This includes standing in the tub, on the table to be dried, tolerating having all the knots brushed out, and then standing again for the scissor work.

When a dog becomes older their tolerance level is sometimes less. They no longer tolerate being brushed as much as they did in their younger years. This alone causes them stress. Many times this is due to their bodies being more sensitive. Arthritis makes their joints a little stiffer and they get tired quicker. The longer they are made to stand on a table the more stress is causes them.

Unless our dogs are show dogs, the haircuts we have done on them are done for our own personal reasons. If your dog is twelve years old and can not walk for any distance then perhaps it is time for the dog grooming haircut that takes the least amount of time and stress. It really is true, your dog does not care what he looks like, he only cares what you think he looks like. So tell him he is just as beautiful with that short haircut as he was when he was younger with that fancy one. You will both be the better for it.

Natural Dog Food Reviews to the Rescue

2007-05-07T06:15:00.001-07:00

When it comes to dog food, there are several types of food, flavors, and brands to make dog food comparisons from. It can be a difficult process finding the best food and selecting the right dog food brands to maintain your dog's health. Luckily for dog owners, there are dog food reviews that can help you decide what is best for your dog.

There are three kinds of dog foods, but for this article we will focus on the natural balance dog foods available. Natural balance dog foods generally contain only fresh, natural and wholesome ingredients. There are several benefits to choosing natural balance dog foods over other kinds of food, but your dog will find that the protein and carbohydrate ingredients are easily digestible.

There have been a number of dog food reviews and scientific studies that have shown that the best ingredient in dog food is meat-based protein. You will find that in many dog food brands the main ingredient is corn meal, flour or corn gluten meal. While not all natural balance dog foods contain meat-based protein, a majority of the brands do.

Aside from keeping your dog healthier and more active, dog food reviews show that natural balance dog food has also been known to keep your dog's coat healthier and thicker. Along with that, your dog will have fewer digestive problems and firmer stools. The kinds of meat-based proteins you should look for in your dogs food is chicken, turkey, and white rice or brown rice.

There are several kinds of dog food that is on the market and a plethora of different dog food brands to choose from. Many dog food reviews show that one of the best kinds is Life's Abundance Premium Health Food for Dogs. This dog food is reasonably priced and provides 100% complete nutrition in accordance to with AAFCO feeding protocols.

Life's Abundance has a high antioxidant formula and three sources of premium protein. The sources of protein include chicken meal, egg and fish meal. Even better than what is included is what is not included in this dog food, which does not include corn, wheat, dairy or by-products.

Another great dog food among dog food reviews is Sojos Dog Food Mix, which is a blend of wholesome grains, herbs, nuts and sea vegetables. To add flavor to the European style pet food, you can add meat and raw or steamed veges. As with Life's Abundance, Sojos Dog Food Mix does not contain fillers, preservatives, flavors or anything else.

Although there are several kinds of dog food brands to choose from, looking at the many dog food reviews can help you find the healthiest meal for your dog. The more meat-based protein that is in the food, the better it will taste for your dog and the healthier it will be for your dog. And for that reason, the top natural balance dog foods are Life's Abundance Premium Health Food for Dogs and Sojos Dog Food Mix.

Cat Behavior Training

2007-05-03T14:14:00.001-07:00

Cats make great pets. They're cute, they're clean, they're smart, and they have an independent streak that you just won't find in a dog. Unfortunately, cats can also exhibit notoriously difficult behavior. They may destroy furniture, constantly meow and whine, and even claim territory all over your house. If one or more of these things start happening, it might be in your best interest to start cat behavior training.

Contrary to popular belief - and what you yourself may have been told - cat behavior training is possible. Cats aren't so independent that they'll refuse any and all efforts to train them. In fact, they can be quite responsive, so long as you use the right techniques.

Keep in mind that cats aren't quite like any other animal, and they're certainly not the same as dogs. Some methods of behavior training that will work with other household pets will utterly fail with your cat.

What's the most important thing to keep in mind when training your cat? You absolutely need to know and accept that reacting physically won't help a thing. Cats don't respond to being swatted with a newspaper or having their noses rubbed in their own urine - on the contrary, they'll only resent you for it. They won't understand why you've done what you have, they'll only be frustrated and upset with you.

In fact, trying to train your cat through physical punishment can completely ruin your relationship with him. He won't trust you, he won't understand why you're punishing him, and his behavior certainly won't improve.

Training your cat requires you to talk to him, using positive words and tones combined with rewards of food or new toys when he's done something good, and the opposite when he's done something wrong.

You also need to maintain a stable environment, as cats are very sensitive to any and all changes going on around them. Have you moved recently? Have you introduced a new pet into your home? Have you moved your cat's litter box? Any of these things have the potential to negatively influence your cat's behavior.

Perhaps above all, you need patience. Cat behavior training is not exactly a walk in the park. It takes time, it takes effort, and it takes dedication. With some perseverance on your part, however, and the right techniques, there's no doubting the fact that you will be able to improve your cat's behavior, which makes for a better relationship between you and your pet.

9 'Sit Stay Fetch' Tips To Rapid Dog Toilet Training

2007-05-02T06:40:00.001-07:00

Teaching a dog to 'Sit Stay Fetch' is difficult but potty training a puppy is one of the biggest challenges facing dog owners.

Experts tout many different methods of potty training. Some of them work for some puppies or they would not have become popular.

Puppies learn new skills at different rates. Your puppy will need time to develop a firm understanding of where it is acceptable to potty and where it is not.

Understandably, there will be many accidents, especially at first. Focus on correcting their potty behaviours.

Below are 9 Sit Stay Fetch Tips to Dog Toilet Training

1) Plan in advance how and where your puppy is going to relieve himself.

2) Plan in advance how and to paper train the puppy, indoors or outdoors? If it is indoors lay the paper down near a door.

3) Learn the clues that indicate your puppy needs to potty. These clues are: restlessness, sniffing the floor, or returning to a previously soiled spot. Your pup will need to potty about 5-20 minutes after eating, sleeping or playing.

4) Like a child, a Puppy has a small bladder but the difference is, there are no 'pup nappies' to collect the accidental waste. And hence a puppy needs constant supervision till such time they have the right idea.

5) Anticipate it - Keep a track of the time your puppy needs before he relieves himself. Once you have the timing of the puppy's bodily function, use it as a rough guide to knowing the next 'relief' session.

Knowing in advance will give you the opportunity to take the puppy out 5-10 minutes prior.

6) Puppies need to relieve themselves frequently, sometimes as often as once an hour. If possible, at least once per hour, take your new puppy potty as often as possible in the early stages of his house training.

7) Consistent pattern - Train your puppy to go to the right area with a set pattern and encourage your puppy to relieve himself there every time. Hence, when you take your puppy outside to potty, take them to to the same spot each time and do not play.

As soon as your puppy reliefs, praise the puppy.

8) Always accompany the puppy and check that the puppy has relieved completely.

9) There are going to be accidents, so stay calm. Do not hit a puppy for their accidents or rub a puppy's nose in his or her mistakes. Just clean up the mess and disinfect the area.

House training requires consistency and a schedule. By using the same set pattern, you will reinforce the correct potty behaviour.

If you dog requires urgent dog house training, Sit Stay Fetch will show house training techniques to get the fastest results. And the best part is, the methods are applicable for dogs of any age or breed.

Lastly, if you have any other behavioral issues with your dog or just looking to train your puppy, Sit Stay Fetch is highly recommended.

What Is The Endocrine Dog Health Problem

2007-04-30T19:26:00.001-07:00

Dogs affected by bacterial, fungal and viral infections may see some form of hormone changes that affect specific organs by way of the bloodstream. The pituitary gland, adrenal and thyroid glands are the typical endocrine glands that affect the body of the dog. One endocrine dog health problem is Cushing's disease.

What Is Cushing's Disease in Dogs

The medical terminology for this disease is hyperadrenocorticism. When excess cortisol is present in the bloodstream, circulates through the body, and can be deathly if the levels are high. Known also as a steroid, normal levels produced by the body, do no harm. Younger dogs are not affected by this condition, but as the dogs age, any breed can become affected.

What Causes and Symptoms of Cushing's Disease in Dogs

The pituitary gland is the primary cause of this condition in dogs. For most causes diagnosed, the non-cancerous tumors produce the excess circulation of the cortisol, which in turn leads to the disease. Endocrine dog health problem arise because of the adrenal glands located near the kidneys and produce adrenaline as well.

The number one symptom is extreme thirst and appetite. The belly will extend outward along with hair loss, increased urination and laziness. These symptoms usually appear after a few months of having the disease, which sometimes is to long for some dogs if they are not completely healthy before the disease circulates through the body. The Endocrine dog health problem needs early detection as well as treatment.

Let the Vet Diagnose the Disease Correctly

If your dog shows any symptoms of Cushing's disease, and the dog's age is over the four-year mark, blood tests can confirm if the disease is this disease or some other dog health program. One test that determines what gland is showing signs of abnormalities are the high dose dexamethasone, which determines whether it is the pituitary or adrenal gland. The two other tests that a vet will run are the low dose dexamethasone suppression and the ACTH stimulation test.

Treating Cushing's Disease in Dogs

Because the endocrine dog health problem has no preventive treatments, the dog must undergo treatment with lysodren medications. The medication attacks and destroys a portion of the adrenal gland reducing levels of cortisol. Other drugs used have a lower efficiency for treating Cushing's disease are ketoconazole and anipryl. If the tumor tests negative for being cancerous, it can be removed by a surgical procedure.

In all, dogs that come down with symptoms of Cushing's disease need to be tested and diagnosed before any treatments can be rendered. The most important thing to remember is if it is not caused by a cancerous tumor, surgery can help eliminate the symptoms. Not all symptoms mean Cushing's disease has, many aliments to dogs show the same signs. This is why proper diagnosis is required before any type of treatment can be given to the dog. Always provide plenty of food and water to your dog, even if these symptoms arise.

Worms That Can Threaten Your Dog's Health

2007-04-29T11:43:00.001-07:00

The dog is a very active and a curious animal. This often digs around trash and comes into contact with other animals. Though this may seem fun, people do not notice that this can lead to problems in the health of the pet.

Worms are considered to be internal parasites. Some people will notice this immediately when the dog excretes this in the stool. However, this isn't always the case. There are some that can only be seen using a microscope once a blood sample has been taken.

Once these parasites have entered the dog's digestive system, the chances of survival are very slim. The only thing the owner can do is offer liquids and some medicine which will hopefully strengthen the pet's immune system and hopefully kill the worms.

Worms have been classified into 5 types.

The first is called the hookworm. The dog can get this by walking in the garden and once these are on the foot of the pet, these will slowly move inside and multiply causing much havoc in the digestive system.

These usually grow from 12 to 15 and suck on the blood. The dog can die even before this come out in the feces which is why puppies during this stage in life should be regularly brought to the vet.

The person should be aware that this isn't only contagious to dogs but to humans as well.

The second is called a tapeworm. People will not mistake seeing this since this type of worms is long and usually live in the intestine of the animal. These can also be found in the anus and comes with fleas that suck on the blood of the animal. This can be killed using prescribed medication since ordinary vaccination does not work.

The third type is called the roundworm. These look like spaghetti noodles when it comes out of the feces of the dog. Though some may come out, there are still some inside and can multiply some more if proper treatment isn't administered. The only way to fight this is also using prescribed medication.

The fourth type is called a whipworm. The parasite is called this way because these appear to be a combination of both the tape and the round worm. These are usually found in the colon area and have an incubation of three months before coming out.

The fifth type is the heartworm. These usually stay near the heart and only a blood sample can reveal its existence. It is better to prevent this from happening since most pups that are infected die from this disease.

The best protection against these parasites will be to bring the dog to the vet and having vaccinations done. The person can also try getting some disinfecting pills. These can be purchased without a medical prescription and should be used using the proper dosage.

At home, the person can start by making sure the dog house or bedding is clean at all times. The pet should also be given a bath once a week and tied to a leash to prevent this animal from digging in the yard or eating from the trash since this is where germs and other contaminants grow.

When a dog is struck by worms, the immune system may either fight or give up. A lot of dogs will die while those that do survive will have some side effects that will affect the dog health for the remainder of its life.

African Grey Parrot - The Roget's Thesaurus On Wings?

2007-04-28T05:36:00.001-07:00

The African Grey parrot has been deemed the best speaker of all the parrots. In fact, the Guinness Book of World records has listed an African Grey parrot named, Prudle as the most talkative parrot world wide. Prudle and other African Grey parrots like her have helped bring light to the amazing abilities and qualities these birds possess. Though it is common knowledge that parrots speak, the African Grey parrot delivers a vocabulary unlike any other parrot and they are not limited to mimicking human speech either. In fact, you may be familiar with one very famous African Grey parrot named Alex. He has been the subject of scientific studies and many television programs and documentaries. As of current testing, it has been determined that Alex has the same mental capacities of a two-year-old child. It is no wonder so many bird fanciers are racing to own African Grey parrots.

It is because of their incredible abilities, intelligence, and personalities that those considering owning an African Grey parrot should be prepared to devote as much time and attention to their new pet as they would a young child. The African Grey parrot requires plenty of stimulation and interaction and will easily bond with its new owner. Many people prefer to buy their African Greys through a breeder. This ensures that the bird is acclimated to human touch and will be more dependent upon their owners. This is especially true if you purchase your African Grey parrot at a young age and hand feed it. It is also important to realize that it is illegal to capture African Grey parrots in the wild and sell them.

If you are going to purchase an African Grey, you should ensure that you would be able to devote plenty of time to him or her and make sure that your pet will not spend its day without adequate stimulation. Since the African Grey parrot has a lifespan of fifty years and more, it is imperative that you realize your new parrot purchase is a lifelong commitment. However, many people who own African Greys readily admit that their pet is a beloved member of their family, and the bond between these amazing birds and their owners is one full of love, happiness, and enjoyment.

Favorite Large Dog Breeds

2007-04-26T19:50:00.001-07:00

There are many people who love large dogs. That is obvious by the number of large dog breeds listed in the AKC top ten favorite dog breeds. The Top Ten list includes Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherd Dogs, Golden Retrievers, and Boxers. And since Poodles are eighth in the list, you could say that five large breeds are in the top ten since Standard Poodles average over 50 pounds.

Why are so many large dogs found in the top ten when they can appear so intimidating, cost a lot more to feed than smaller dogs, require more room, and require firmer training than, say, a Pug or Pomeranian?

There is something special about having a large dog. Unless you have owned one of the large dog breeds you might not understand the feeling owners get calling this large dog "friend" and "companion." Many of the large breeds are also among the most gentle breeds.

With the exception of the German Shepherd Dog, Weimaraners, Rottweilers and the Doberman Pinscher, every large dog listed below is extremely affectionate (rating four or five stars out of a possible five). Many of the largest breeds seem to be the most affectionate and gentle, while others among the largest breeds, such as the Rottweiler and German Shepherd Dog, are terrific guard dogs.

The top ten favorite large dogs are not, for the most part, the giants of the dog world. After all, Irish Wolfhounds and St. Bernards, among the biggest and heaviest dogs, are 39th and 77th on the AKC list of favorite dogs. Still, Great Danes, only a few inches smaller than the Irish Wolfhound, occupy the position of 24th favorite, and Mastiffs (a breed that can weight about 190 pounds, just below the St. Bernard) are 32nd favorite.

Here is the list of top ten with 11th and 12th thrown in for good measure:

Labrador Retriever (1st) German Shepherd Dogs (3rd) Golden Retrievers (4th) Boxers (7th) Rottweilers (17th) Pointers, German Shorhaired (19th) Doberman Pinschers (21st) Great Danes (24th) Siberian Huskies (25th) English Springer Spaniel (26th) Weimaraners (30th) Mastiffs (32nd)

Considering that there are 155 dogs listed in the American Kennel Club (in 2006), it is a significant achievement to be listed in the top 30. Eleven of the large dog breeds accomplish this, with Mastiffs coming in close behind at position 32. And note that large breeds occupy three of the top four positions, which is really impressive.

But why are these large dogs so popular even though they require more space, more food, and often more energy to control than little Chihuahuas (number 11) or Pugs (number 13)? The fact is some people prefer large dogs over small. Who can argue that a Mastiff or Great Dane does not elicit awe and admiration from everyone who sees one? They are very imposing dogs.

Yet despite their size most of these large dogs are very gentle and affectionate. Imagine a Mastiff with the temperament of a typical Chihuahua. Just the thought is frightening. Instead, the Mastiff is among the most lovable and gentle dog breed.

The Labrador Retriever is so far ahead of all the other breeds in popularity that it will be awhile before any other breed overtakes them, if it ever happens at all. No matter how you look at it, large dogs are among the most favorite dog breeds in the United States.

Small Dog Breeds

2007-04-25T13:49:00.001-07:00

Small dog breeds are increasing in popularity every day, and not just because of Paris Hilton. Small dogs have a lot of great attributes that many people want in a dog without any of the size problems.

Small dog breeds are great for several reasons. Of course they are small, so if you live in a small apartment a small dog is ideal. Also, it is much easier to travel with a small dog because they can fit easily in a bag around your shoulder or in a small carrier, and don't they don't take up much space in the car.

Caring for small dogs is a lot easier and cheaper as well. They eat a lot less than a normal sized dog and also most of them shed less than a normal sized dog which is good for people who want to avoid allergens.

There are many small dog breeds that are in the top 10 in terms of popularity in the AKC list of breeds. These include the Shih Tzu, Miniature Schnauzer, Yorkshire terrier, Dachshund, and the Toy and Miniature Poodle. These small dogs keep moving up in popularity and push even more familiar breeds out of the top ten list. The trend looks to be continuing this year and at least for the near future they will continue to gain in popularity.

Often times people think that small dogs are not as aggressive as large dogs. Don't underestimate small dog breeds; they can be just as aggressive as large dogs. Most make great watchdogs, and will let you know the minute something is not right. A lot of small dogs will even try to attack larger breed dogs!

Always be sure to purchase your dog from a reputable breeder. Check with other people and see where they purchased their dogs from and ask for buying tips. Often times buying from a pet store is the worst place to buy your small dog breed from. Small breed puppies can be prone to many medical issues like hypoglycemia and congenital defects so it is important to have you new dog examined by a veterinarian soon after purchase.

Small breed dogs offer a lot of advantages leading to an ever increasing popularity. There are many different Toy and Miniature dog breeds to choose from, but do your research and ask around. Whether it be a Shih Tzu or a Miniature Schnauzer, you'll find many small dog breeds that are right for you.

Understanding Iguana Health Care

2007-04-24T06:05:00.001-07:00

In trying to discover the proper iguana health care it is essential to understand that in large part, the iguana's health is completely dependent upon the environment that they are in as well as the nutrition that is available to them. This is the also true of the iguana that is kept in captivity, as it is highly imperative that it has a proper and adequate habitat and this fact alone can play a monumental role in the iguana health care. Lets take a look at the various factors that can play an important part of the health of this fantastic creature.

Compromising Iguana Health Care

There is a pivotal part of feeding the iguana because there are some foods that include toxic chemicals for an iguana and can cause serious harm. One of those foods is spinach because they do cause acids that can be potentially harmful to an iguana as well as brussel sprouts because they are infamous for carrying salmonella. Some other food things that are potentially dangerous to an iguana health care regime are things such as swiss chard, cauliflower and beets as these can also contain mild traces of acids and toxins that can harm the iguana.

Another pivotal part of keeping a good iguana health care regime is that iguanas that are held in captivity do not get the required amount of sunlight which is how they absorb vitamin C as well as other nutrients and in that manner, it is highly important that the pet iguana receives vitamin as well as calcium supplements at least two times a week as well as supplying the iguana with the essential UV lighting as this is one aspect that an iguana cannot thrive or survive without.

Iguanas In Captivity

For a final few statements regarding the iguana health care, it is equally as important that the habitat it lives in is clean and well kept. Often new iguana users will line the cage with substances such as wood chips or lizard litter and although one is made to believe that this is the appropriate kind of litter for an iguana, it is not! It is wise to use something that can be easily thrown out and that the iguana will not ingest as this can cause serious health problems. Some kind of butcher wrap that can be easily thrown out and replaced that the iguana will not ingest is ultimately the best kind of cage litter.

Dog Breeders: A Good Way To Buy A Dog?

2007-04-20T13:07:00.001-07:00

Purebred dogs are all the rage. For many people who are looking to purchase a purebred dog, they do a dog breeder search in order to buy it. Before you rush out and plop down several hundred dollars for your pure breed pup, there are a few things that are important to know. It is very important to educate yourself BEFORE you buy your puppy from a breeder.

You can find breeders by searching the newspaper or using the Internet, and a number of different places. But what do you really know about the breeder? Some breeders are nothing more than "puppy mills" or farms. Since you don't have to be licensed to be a breeder, the backyard breeder - the dog owner who decides to raise puppies for sale as an income generally has little knowledge – or do they bother to understand – the genetics of the breed or proper nutritional requirements to keep the dog healthy. And it's not uncommon for puppies that come from unlicensed breeders to be sickly and harboring diseases. And puppy mill puppies frequently turn up in pet stores.

Ironically, pet stores are the WORST place to buy a dog. These dogs come from puppy farms where they are often abused, neglected and inbred. Dogs from pet stores are many times nearly impossible to train, prone to illness and disease, prone to behavioral problems like compulsive chewing or barking, as well as being almost impossible to crate train.

Believe it or not, practically any breed that you could want to purchase is available in your local area. Purebred dogs are increasingly found at your local animal shelter. And there are breed specific rescue
organizations. Of course most of these dogs are no longer young puppies because people turn them in once the fad has worn off - generally that happens around 6 months to one year from the time they got the pup.

If you are insistant on getting a puppy, the safest route is to find a dog breeder who is licensed. Some of the best options for finding a professional dog breeder would be to attend local dog shows, visit pet
supply stores, pet expos or ask a veterinarian for recommendations. However you still need to do your own homework.

Ask lots of questions about the dog you're getting, expect the breeder to ask you questions about yourself and your lifestyle as well. If they don't, be cautious. Good breeders don't want their dogs to end up in homes where the potential owner doesn't have time for the dog or doesn't understand the work involved in raising one. A store clerk or amateur breeder who simply hands you a dog in exchange for your money is not doing you any favors.

Many people buy their puppies over the Internet via some sort of dog breeder directory, but it is highly recommended that you buy from a breeder that you can visit. You can never be 100% sure of what you're getting over the Net. You need to be able to see the facility where the dogs are being bred. Is it clean, is the breeder a caring person, do the mothers look healthy, do the puppies have room to play? These are just a few things you'll need to see with your own eyes. And the answers to these questions will determine whether or not you buy your puppy from that breeder. Don't neglect this vital step. It could mean the difference between getting a healthy pup and a pup that may have eventually have problems.

How To Make Safe & Healthy Food For Your Dog

2007-04-18T15:12:00.001-07:00

Are you like me and afraid to feed your dog ANY commercial dog food? How can we trust the dog food industry now? How do we
know if any of the dog food on shelves in the stores is safe?

I've been feeding my dog, Puddles, those small cans of chicken and small can of sausages. I've also been feeding her bologna and
hot dogs.

Frankly, this is getting too expensive for me. Puddles is a big dog with a big appetite! I've been searching the internet for information on how to make my own dog food, and I found a great source! His name is John Miller, and you can immediately download tons of healthy recipes. I am so relieved I found this! Have you been reading the labels on all the dog food bags in the stores to check for wheat gluten like I've been doing? What about just wheat? Wheat is in many of the dog foods.

Are you thinking that the dog food industry is maybe not telling us everything? I don't want to give my dog any food that has any kind of wheat in it at all! That's why I wanted to find recipes to make homemade food for Puddles, so I can feel good about what she's eating and I know she's safe and healthy. I know it's takes a little more time and effort to make your own dog food, but I feel like my dog, Puddles, is worth it. Isn't yours?

Tricks For Getting Macaws To Stop Biting

2007-04-17T09:11:00.001-07:00

My all time favorite species of parrot is the Macaw; more specifically the Blue and Gold Macaw. They're the most vibrant colored parrots, have an amazing ability to mimic joises with supreme clarity and if raised correctly, their temperament is right up there with the Cockatoo's. But unlike the Cockatoos, the Macaw doesn't become obsessed with human interaction and is MUCH more manageable.

On a quick side note, if you're interested in finding out more information about the quirky behaviors of Cockatoos, you might want to check out my newsletter on the topic at my website.

But that doesn't mean Macaws don't come without their problems… they do. And as long as you know how to handle a Macaw, they'll turn out to be one of the most affectionate breeds of parrot you could ever own.

So if your new to macaw ownership, or looking to purchase one, this one quick little tip could save you TONS of trouble in the future.

Without knowing what I'm about to tell you a Macaw will quickly be able to control you, and everyone in your home. Macaws have a very annoying ability to figure out how to get you to do what they want.

They are easily taught that if they scream you'll come over and give them attention, or maybe even feed them… because YOU think it's quieting them down… even though they think you're just playing.

They'll learn that if they're standing on your hand, and you go to put them back into their cage – where they don't want to go – that if they bite you, they won't go back in the cage as fast. Heck, they even learn that sometimes biting you will cause you to drop them, giving them a chance to escape for just a few more minutes of playtime OUTSIDE their cage.

These birds aren't stupid. And therefore, you can't afford to be either. Instead you need to constantly be thinking about ways your parrot might be trying to get his own way.

Here's another example...

Macaws are notorious lungers. They're famous for sitting quietly on top of their cage until you decide you want to walk by. If the Macaw isn't quite sure about how he feels about you, it is very common for him to flare out his wings, scream at the top of his longs, run across his cage, and aggressively lunge at you, getting as close as possible to your skin.

This is an incredibly intimidating, and requires nerves of steel to not be scared right into submission by your macaw. However, I think you'll find it extremely interesting to know that most macaws if you'd just stand there and let them lunge at you, actually WON'T bite you. It's all a big show to try to gain the upper hand and prove his dominance over you so he can get his way. As long as he has you scared, he wins.

So the next time you're confronted with a Macaw who's showing these types of behaviors, stand your ground. Let him attack and see what happens. He probably will grab hold of you, realize you aren't leaving, and back off. And even if he is a bit aggressive, just hold a wooden dowel in between you and your bird. The macaw will keep attacking the stick, and quickly realize that he can't use aggression to get his way with you.

For more tips and tricks on how to handle Macaws, go to http://www.birdtricks.com/macaws.html

Small and Large Dogs- How Size Variations Can Help Us Learn More About Diseases We Share With Dogs

2007-04-16T03:09:00.001-07:00

Dogs are descended from wolves but the domestic dogs of today are quite different from the dogs of long ago. The largest variation in size of any animals that live on land is found among the various breeds of dogs. Because dogs and humans have more than 200 diseases in common and humans share about 85% of our genetic makeup with canines in general, it is important to study the variation of size found in dogs. There were probably smaller wolves in ancient times but we have no way of knowing for sure. These smaller canines would have been more likely to have been treated as pets by ancient men. This was the beginning of man wanting to breed smaller dogs for different uses, such as hunting, herding and watching for intruders.

The reason that we have dogs of such varying size is that breeders started using selective breeding hundreds of years ago. The smallest dogs from each litter were mated together, resulting in smaller and smaller dogs. Purebred dogs became less pure and finally the bloodlines were diluted to the point that the purest animals of each breed became almost extinct. It is for this reason that we are able to learn so much from the diseases we share in common with dogs. These diseases include cancer, high blood pressure and arthritis.

Small dogs have a mutation in one of their chromosomes that accounts for the growth sequence from birth to adolescence in mammals. By studying this gene and the hormone it controls we can put the pieces of the puzzle together in a way that was previously unknown.

By learning more about the similarities between humans and dogs we can find out new ways to treat and prevent many diseases that we have in common. This is just one more way that dogs are truly man's best friend.

How to Stop Your Cat from Chewing on Electrical Cords and Other Objects

2007-04-14T20:32:00.001-07:00

Chewing on electrical cords can burn or shock your cat causing respiratory problems, cardiac arrest and even death. Cats' sharp teeth and their inquisitive nature can put your cat at high risk. This is especially an issue with kittens.

Here's what to do to:

1. Tape cords to the wall with electrical tape to help prevent your pet from gaining access to them.

2. Stow excess lengths of cord behind furniture or appliances, hidden from your cat's view. Cats are attracted to dangling cords and may think they are toys.

3. Block access to visible cords by wrapping flexible safety cable (available at hardware stores) around them. Tin foil works well too, or even a thicker model or extension cord (that is too big for a cat to chew on)

4. Place contact paper, sticky side up, in the general area of electrical cords to discourage your pet from approaching them.

5. Apply unpleasant-tasting substances to exposed cords. These could include bitter apple spray, menthol, toothpaste, mouthwash or lemon juice. Experiment with different flavors, since cats' taste aversions vary. You can also use Crittercord... It's a cord cover with a deterrent infused in it. Be sure to use a product for Cats though- similar products are available for killing rats so be careful what you buy!

6. Have favorite toys available to distract your pet from the cords, and rotate toys every few days to prevent boredom.

7. Keep your pet out of any room with exposed electrical cords until your furry friend loses interest in chewing on them.

My favorite solution is rubbing the cords with a bar of soap.

Moisten the soap, it makes application easier. The soap will last longer than the Bitter Apple sprays and is more effective than hot sauce (even habanero, which incidentally can get in the cat's eyes and be really painful). This works so well that you will probably see a reluctance to even reach for untreated cords, like a mouse or keyboard cord, where the same cat consistently would bite these before.

You need to understand that cats are smart creatures though they are also creatures of instinct. If you have something dangling around, such as a cord for a fan, your cat will naturally want to swat at it. She may even chew on it as it moves (literally moving your cat around like in old cartoons, just a bit slower).

Every interaction with your cat trains her. If she does something you don't like, and you pick her up and tell her she's naughty and put her in another room etc she's actually learning that if she does that bad behavior, she'll get attention from you! Which means she'll do the bad behavior more and more.

It's far better to ignore bad behavior and reward good behavior. To stop bad behavior interrupt her pattern with a squirt of water or use the above methods to make the experience not as pleasant as she thought it would be. (For example, chewing on cords might look like fun, but if they taste terrible, she'll soon learn that it's better to chew other things).

You should also know that problem behavior in cats is often a sign of stress, boredom or bad socializing when they were a kitten. To deal with stress and boredom provide lots toys, perches and places she can get away and relax and remember that love is the best medicine so give her plenty of attention.

If your cat is out of control due to bad socializing when she was a kitten, you can fix her behavior, though it may take longer. For example, giving her attention needs to be on HER terms...you may only be able to pat her for a small amount of time in one go, though over a few months she'll gradually allow you to pat her more and more as she gets used to it.

It's better to give her some attention and leave her wanting more then over doing it and only stopping when she scratches you and runs away.

Cats are amazing creatures, and once you understand their psychology, you'll get along with them like never before, enjoying perfect behavior from them and an even deeper bond.

Canine Pregnancy Guide

2007-04-13T10:46:00.001-07:00

In many ways canine pregnancy is not that different from human pregnancy, although it is somewhat shorter, averaging sixty-three days. A dog's diet, as well as their consumption of medicine needs to be monitored during pregnancy, just like a woman's should be, and you may notice changes in your dog's emotions and social behavior. She can even experience morning sickness!

Most dogs will gain 15-25% of their original body weight during pregnancy, although this does depend on the number of puppies they are carrying and some do not put on noticeable weight until the last week before whelping.

Nutritional intake needs to increase during canine pregnancy and lactation; your dog may even double the amount she eats. During lactation she will need a high protein puppy food, and you may want to gradually introduce this during the last two weeks of her pregnancy, or even earlier. If you are concerned about providing the right pregnancy diet to meet your particular dog's needs you should consult your veterinarian.

You should try to avoid nutritional supplements during canine pregnancy, even though these may seem like a good idea. Your dog will naturally produce everything her puppies need to thrive during lactation, and supplements may interfere with this process. This is particularly applicable to calcium supplements. If you use a good quality, high protein dog food, supplements will not be necessary.

A lot of canine medication is safe to use during pregnancy. If you give your dog regular preventative medication for heartworm you should continue this throughout pregnancy and lactation. Some medicines to get rid of other types of parasite, such as hookworms or roundworms, can be used but you should consult your veterinarian before administering these. It is important that your dog does get treatment for these conditions as otherwise she can pass them on to her unborn puppies.

Vaccinations should not be given during canine pregnancy. However, if possible, it is a great idea to have your dog vaccinated just before becoming pregnant as this will ensure she has a high level of antibodies to pass onto her puppies during lactation.

About halfway through her pregnancy you should take your dog to the veterinarian for a wellness check and to confirm the pregnancy. The veterinarian will be able to do this by examining the stomach, but a blood test can be done to provide a conclusive result.

You may want to have a radiograph done three weeks prior to the deliver to count the puppies. Knowing how many puppies to expect will help you to prepare for the delivery. Remember that your dog can become pregnant by more than one male during any one heat stage so you may be surprised at the number of puppies she is going to produce.

During the last three weeks of your dog's pregnancy you may want to isolate her completely from contact with other dogs. This will ensure she does not pick up the herpes virus. While this is usually harmless in adult dogs, it can trigger a miscarriage in your pregnant dog.

You may find she wants to stay close to you during this time anyway. She may dislike being left alone and will probably become more affectionate, if a little irritable. As the delivery date approaches she will start to look for a safe place to give birth, and you should give some thought to where this will be.

As with human pregnancy, it is important to remember that canine pregnancy is a natural process, and your dog has been blessed with the natural ability to carry it through. With a little extra attention to nutrition, and some protection from common diseases, this should be a stress free time for you and your dog.

Preventing Parvo With Parvaid And Vibactra Plus

2007-04-12T01:41:00.001-07:00

Parvo is a viral disease that attacks the immune system and intestinal tract of dogs. It was first identified in 1978 and can be transmitted by direct or indirect contact with vomit, feces or diarrhea from an infected dog.

Incubation & Indications

When a dog has been exposed to Parvo, the virus will enter the dog's lymphatic system and incubate. Once the virus has completed the incubation stage, which can take anywhere from three to fifteen days, it will work its way into the intestinal tract and bone marrow. At that time the puppy will begin to show symptoms, which can include diarrhea, vomiting, lethargy, depression, dehydration, high fever and even sudden death.

Traditional Treatment

Historically, treatment has required taking your dogs to the vet where they will be kept for two or three days and given IV drips and anaesthetics. What's more, they will be all by themselves in a strange environment, which can only cause your pets yet further distress. This treatment is not guaranteed to be successful - the only thing you can be certain of is that it will cost you hundreds of dollars in vet's bills.

Natural Treatment

However, new, safer and more cost-effective all-natural solutions can now be obtained, thanks to the hard work and dedicated research of a handful of companies, one of which is Amber Technology from Utah.

Not only are these products safe (there are no known side-effects), but you can treat your dog at home in its every-day environment for a small percentage of the cost of the traditional treatment at a vet's.

Clinical Trials

Amber Technology has tested two of its products, Parvaid and Vibactra Plus, to see if the virus could be prevented at the incubation stage (i.e. before the dog begins to show any symptoms). The results of the study prove that using Parvaid and Vibactra Plus before the puppy becomes symptomatic results in 90% of dogs not showing any symptoms.

However, if they have been wormed or vaccinated within seven days of the onset of Parvo, the numbers are less. If the dog has been exposed to Parvo AND has another illness, such as coccidia, the percentage numbers decline. (Amber Technology does not have an opinion as per the maintenance of vaccinations. Amber Technology suggests that you do your own research and make your own determinations as to whether or not you will vaccinate.)

Parvaid As A Preventative Measure

It takes an average of three days for the incubation process to take place. Let the puppy expose itself to the virus and allow its system to build its immunities for a couple of days. On the second day, begin giving your puppy Parvaid and Vibactra Plus. This process gives your puppy a greater chance of stopping the virus from reaching the intestinal tract (nine times out of ten, according to studies). The puppy can contract the illness if the exposure is not allowed because the puppy does not have the opportunity to build immunity to the virus.

This process is not a guarantee, however. As soon as the preventative treatment has been completed the puppy can contract the illness, either immediately afterwards or in the future. If this occurs, you should begin the full dose recommended for the treatment of Parvo.

There are a few other things to consider:

** Adult dogs can also become infected.

** If you have multiple dogs, there is a high risk that many will become infected if the virus is present.

** Parvovirus can be spread via vectors such as flies, mosquitoes, and other animals, making it nearly impossible to keep your yard virus-free.

** Since the virus multiplies easily and likes to hide in the ground, it can be all around your dog's environment; therefore it is best to use Parvaid as a Preventative rather than trying to eradicate the virus from your yard.

Pet Food Recall Grows

2007-04-10T11:56:00.001-07:00

The tainted food recall grew again on Saturday, March 31, as Nestle Purina Pet Care Co. added Alpo Prime Cuts in Gravy wet dog food to the list of growing pet foods being recalled. Purina said a limited amount of food contained wheat gluten from China.

Hill's Pet Nutrition, late Friday, March 30, recalled its Prescription Diet m/d Feline dry cat food that contained the same allegedly contaminated wheat gluten. Hill's is the only company so far that has recalled a dry pet food.

It appears that even the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and other experts don't understand the real cause or full extend of the problem as concerned pet owners seek answers from both their vets and pet food suppliers.

The same US supplier of wheat gluten, a protein source, also sold to a Canadian company. So far Menu Foods recalled 60 million containers of wet dog and cat food it produces for sale under nearly 100 brand labels.

To date, the Chinese company that supplied the allegedly contaminated wheat gluten remains a mystery as Menu Foods refuses to name the company.

Last week, the New York State Food Laboratory identified aminopterin, a cancer drug also used as a rat poison, as the likely culprit. The FDA said that it could not confirm that finding.

Federal testing of some of the recalled pet foods, and the wheat gluten used in their production, resulted in the finding of the chemical melamine. Melamine is used to make kitchen ware and other plastics.

According to Fox News, Menu Foods, said the only certainty was that imported wheat gluten was the likely source of the pet deaths, even if the actual contaminant remained in doubt.

What's the bottom line to pet owners who are unsure of what to feed their pet? The best thing to do, at the current time, is to check the ingredients and if your pet food contains wheat, think seriously before you serve it to your beloved pet.

Training Your Cat to Sit

2007-04-09T05:22:00.001-07:00

While there are many reasons to love your cat, obedience is probably not one of them. We all love watching our cats bounce around and play, but have you ever wished that you could get them to sit still? It's easier than you might think; cats can be trained, just like dogs can, but it can take a bit longer and be a little more work. It can certainly be done, however, and you may be surprised by the results.

There are many benefits to training your cat to sit. First, it's just nice to be able to get a little stillness from a cat that's making you tired just from watching him run around. Second, if someone like a vet needs to take a look at him, the vet will appreciate a cat that knows how to sit still. Third, when your cat starts sitting, there's a good chance he'll stay sitting, and there's nothing relaxing as nice as your cat purring in your lap, after all.

As with most cat training, this starts with a bribe. Make sure your cat is aware that you have one of his favorite treats in your hand. When he shows interest, slowly raise the treat over his head and slightly behind it, not high enough that he has to reach up. This should make your cat crane his head up and back.

The moment your cat is in a sitting posture, reward him with the treat and give him lots of praise. This is the first step to getting your cat to make the link between the command and the treat.

The key to this exercise is isolation of the command and repetition. Don't reward the cat whenever he shows up, sits down and looks up at you expectantly; you're training him, not the other way around! Don't try to force your cat into this activity if he's not interested in the treat. This will probably just annoy him and make him hide, and it is important to keep the good association in his head.

Try to get family members and friends into the act. This can especially help in making shyer cats used to other people and encourage them to socialize rather than hide.

After a few sessions, your cat will learn to sit when your hand alone is in the right position above his head. While you don't need to use to the treat to get his attention anymore, do continue to reward him. As you may have noticed, cats tend not to do things for free. Soon enough though, you should be able to eliminate the treat entirely, though it is still very much worth it to reward your cat for good behavior from time to time.

Remember not to use the word "sit" too early, because if the cat has not yet learned to associate the motion with the verbal command, you may confuse him. After all, you don't want your cat to start believing that "sit" means "look at my owner in confusion before walking away.

Make Your Cat an Internet Superstar - Give Him His Very Own Webpage

2007-04-07T15:43:00.001-07:00

Nowadays, just about everybody's "connected", as the internet spreads in popularity. Every interest has its own niche on the worldwide web, including cat fanciers. Catster.com is a website that will allow anyone who loves cats to admire others' pets, or show off their own. Here are a few highlights.

First of all, sign up for a free account at Catster. This enables you to set up your own webpage, or pages (you can have multiple pages for more than one pet). Take a look around the site to get accustomed to it. There are a large amount of cat themed groups you and your pet can join. Also, look at other members' beloved cats. It is fun to see the variety of shapes, sizes and personalities. It also gives you ideas on how people write their pet pages.

Make your pet pages, using your favorite photos of your cat doing funny things or just posing. You will be assigned a web address for this page, so you can give it out to friends and family to see. The prompt for the page will guide you to explain your cat's age, favorite toys, likes and dislikes, among other things. Your kitty can even have its own diary (written by you).

Notice the virtual cat treats you can give to yourself and other peoples' pets. The cat corral is to bookmark cats you find interesting, so you can see them again later. Inviting another cat to be friends will allow you to get to know other pet owners and tell them that you admire their cats. You will recieve emails there at the site from others wanting to be friends with your cat as well (unless you turn the email off in Preferences).

Also, if you have a cat you need to find a home for, make sure to mark your page to say so. There is an area you fill out if the kitty being profiled needs a new home. This is great exposure to other cat lovers and rescuers. Also, participate in the groups that are active in finding pets new owners, post the kitty's photo on there for all to see. The more you expose the cat's photo and tell his story, the faster you'll find him a forever home.

In general, this is a large site with many participants, and they are a dynamic group of cat lovers. They have a virtual cat show every year. along with other cat competitions. It's all done in good fun, and there is even another site for dog lovers called Dogster.com owned by the same people who own Catster. Give it a try and begin showing off your furry friends to the world, who would love to see them.

Is Your Dog Not Eating Properly Lately?

2007-04-06T03:41:00.001-07:00

Is your dog not eating properly lately?

If yes, then you'd want to take every little caution and find out more about this situation. Due to the degree of danger involved, this is a concern that most dog breeders will be paying extra attention to look after their dogs with care.

One of the reasons for dogs not eating properly can be due to what is known as "kennel cough," which happens often when the pet has been in contact with other dogs in some confined environment such as kennel, alley, etc. All it takes to clear this up is to keep the dog away from others for a while, and at the same time, use some home remedies for kennel cough such as cough syrup. Very quickly the dog will start its normal appetite again.

Another reason for dogs not eating properly can be due to abscessed teeth. This is made more evident if the dog makes noises in its throat and refuses to eat. Usually, taking antibiotics for 2 weeks will help the dog overcome such suffering and normal eating should resume very quickly.

A more serious possibility is indicated when the dog has a dry cough and is trying to vomit in vain. A heart problem could be the reason behind the cough as the heart is pressing on the esophagus and thus triggering the cough. Home remedies are not sufficient in this case and a visit to the vet is highly necessary. Often times, professional intervention that gives rise to a better prognosis can save lives when it is carried out early enough.

When the dog gets an upset stomach with diarrhea and vomits, it might have irritable bowel syndrome. Boiled chicken and rice cooked in a very plain manner, or beef broth poured over dry dog foods, might do the trick given a bit of time. A special blend the vet usually recommends for dogs that won't eat is called Prescription diet, which is Hill's Science Diet Advanced Protection for adult dogs and served mixed with dry dog foods. This will work in most cases.

It is important to start feeding the puppy with the right diet early in life. One of the largest dog guide schools in the country instructs their dog-breeders to feed Pro Plan chicken and rice puppy chow until 4 months and then switch to adult Pro Plan chicken and rice. Quite a number of owners of trained dogs from different service dog schools are known to continue this Pro Plan, while some of them are feeding other premium commercial chows, including Iams and Eukanuba.

In conclusion, any dog owner who wish to have a healthy, long lived dog can very easily apply this regimen, leaving themselves with more time to spend on the dog. Besides, it is also relatively economical too. Therefore, when the dog is not eating properly, the signal for extra care has been ignited. Attending to situation like this will ensure that the dog will enjoy better health for life.

Tips on How To Pick A Kitten From The Litter

2007-04-04T12:45:00.001-07:00

Looking at a pen full of kittens, it is hard to make a choice which one to take home. It is an exciting process to choose the kitten you want, and looking at each and every kitten in the litter is a fun experience. Observe the litter, and watch their reaction as they see you. Take note of their behavior, whether if they're playful, energetic and confident, or slow, unenthusiastic and lazy.

Get to know to the kitten group as a whole after you have observed the entire litter. Then, watch out for the one whose personality matches your needs. This should be considered slowly. Take as much time as you need, have fun playing with the kittens and interact with each of them, while at the same time make note of what you notice.

While you mingle with them, single out the kittens that appear to be more active than others and pay a lot of attention to you. Choose the kitten that seems to enjoy hanging around you if you want a pet that has energy and is attentive or pick a shy one if you would just prefer some quiet company. Most pet owners love attention from their pets and these furballs will make very good company for cat lovers, even after they have grown up.

If there are no kittens in the litter that caught your attention or strike you as energetic, talk to the breeder about the reason behind the sluggish behavior. Perhaps they have eaten something before you came which would cause drowsiness, or are tired from a previous feeding. It would be better to come back at a time where they would be more active to make a better choice.

If you do not have the opportunity to assess a whole litter in a sitting, it is alright. Some kittens might be the ones that remained after other kittens in the litter were sold, or in another case, kittens in animal shelters are not usually related. But one can still enjoy a kitten's personality by interacting or playing with it and from there, you can still decide if you find the kitten good enough to bring home and join your family. See below for more information on Choosing A Kitten from the Litter.

Cat Care And Your Home

2007-04-03T06:36:00.001-07:00

Cat care can make a big difference on the look and atmosphere of your home. When you provide great cat care, you are ensuring that your home will look and smell clean and welcoming to visitors, and will be a place that you enjoy relaxing in. If you neglect cat care, your home can start to feel more like a prison than like an oasis. A cat is meant to make your household a more pleasant place to be, because the love and affection that a cat provides, not to mention the entertainment and refreshing energy, sweeten any environment. However, if you aren't providing adequate cat care, the joys of cat ownership can become buried underneath layers of odor and grime. Luckily, in just a few minutes every day, you can offer your pet the best possible cat care. Great cat care doesn't require expense or a lot of time or effort, and it can have tangibly positive results when it comes to your home's environment.

The overall impact of better cat care on your household atmosphere can be quite powerful because different aspects of cat care have many different effects on how your home feels. One important part of cat care has to do with hygiene and taking care of any messes that your cat creates. This side of cat care will keep your home smelling fresh and looking its best. Another part of cat care has to do with the love and affection that you give your cat. Showing your pet that they are safe in your presence and that they are loved is an important aspect of cat care that can have many different benefits.

Peace and quiet are two important parts of a relaxing atmosphere, and they are the core of a pleasant home environment. A cat's plaintive mewling can add an air of anxiety or tension to your home's atmosphere. Luckily, cat care can help you minimize this aspect of pet ownership. When you spend a lot of time making your cat feel safe and appreciated, it is less likely to whine or screech. Indirectly, cat care can actually help your furnishings and decorative items stay looking newer for longer. When you provide your cat with ideal cat care, it is less likely to indulge in destructive behaviors like scratching your furniture, climbing the drapes, and other activities that can take a toll on your home's appearance.

Cat care is often a matter of routine, and can sometimes feel like a burden. When cat care feels like work, it is tempting to avoid it, or to procrastinate for day after day. Nobody looks forward to dealing with cat care issues like a messy litter box or scruffy fur that is just asking for a bath. However, changing your attitude towards cat care can make these tasks much more enjoyable. Every time you take a step towards a healthier, happier, or cleaner cat you are taking a step towards making your home a better place to be.

Selecting Your Puppy

2007-04-01T09:11:00.001-07:00

Dog training actually begins before you have the dog. When selecting a puppy, there are several considerations to keep in mind. First, you must decide why you want a dog. That is different than deciding why you want a puppy. Puppies are cute and cuddly and masters at capturing your heart. But puppies turn into dogs—little dogs, big dogs, hairy dogs, hairless dogs, high maintenance dogs, attention seeking dogs, independent dogs, lap dogs, herding dogs, roving dogs, digging dogs… In other words, you need to consider your final desires for a companion versus the breed's natural characteristics. You also need to consider what you are able to commit to as far as dog training in youth and dog training throughout life. Do some soul searching and research to determine what you really want up front and what the requirements for dog training will be. Will you be doing the training or will you hire it done? If hiring a dog trainer, have you determined if there is a qualified dog trainer in your area? Do not begin an earnest search for a puppy until you have decided on your dog. That doesn't mean don't look, just don't decide. Resist the urge to give in to impulse.

One of the best places to do research is to talk with a vet and with a reputable breeder about dog characteristics and what to look for in the breed. Keeping in mind that the puppy becomes a dog, also talk with a dog trainer who can tell you the quirks of the breed when it comes to dog training. If you have accessibility to dog show judges, they can be invaluable. Always buy from a reputable breeder. You will find that the few dollars more up front may very well eliminate greater expenses or heartache later.

Do you want a male or a female. Remember, males mark their spots in the yard frequently and tend to take longer to dog train. Males tend to be larger than the females and they mature more slowly. Dog training can take a little longer with males. Some of the male dog's natural tendencies are to be dominant and more aggressive; and to run off seeking a female. Neutering can reduce this. Also consider other dogs in the home. Same sex dogs in the home may work out fine…but it may result in one trying to dominate the other. You could inadvertently cause the latter years of a faithful home companion to become miserable by bring in another pet…or you could be giving it more vitality. Often an older dog can actually help with the dog training.

Females tend to be smaller. The female dog training is normally a bit easier. She does not mark her territory, but her urine can be a bit stronger and if she potties in the same area of the yard often, she can kill the grass. Females come into heat; some are rather messy which is not a good thing for a family house companion. Spaying can eliminate this issue if you are not planning to breed. There are products at the pet store to aid during this time if you plan to breed the dog.

Part of selecting a puppy is selecting the breeder. Do your research. Once you have at least one trusted breeder on your list, you need to focus on the individual puppies. Tell your breeder exactly what you are looking for in a pup. The breeder has lived with them for at least 8 weeks and has insight into the individual personalities. Watch how the breeder interacts with the puppies. Check on the puppy's health with the breeder. Ask for the vaccination records and any other treatments (i.e. worms). Also ask to see both parents if both are on site. Ask for names of owners of related dogs and contact them to ask about their dog's behavior patterns and health and ease in dog training. If this is a first litter, still contact people who have purchased from this breeder. Good breeders are already contributing to the dog's training during these early weeks. Notice how well trained the mother is.

There are also some tests that you can do while interacting with the puppies. Observe the litter for a bit. Watch for signs of the pack order. Which is the dominant or alpha dog? Which is low man of the pack? Without coaxing them to you, crouch to their level and watch for their reaction. Is the litter generally fearful, friendly and outgoing, curious? If they shy back and fearfully stay away, this may not be a good litter from which to make your selection. They may not socialize or train easily. It may take a bit, but the normal behavior for puppies is to be attentive to your presence and begin to approach you. Some may be more timid at first, but should show interest. Talk softly to them. Watch to see which ones focus on your voice and face and are obviously listening. (You know, that cute little "cock of the head" puppies do that pulls you in!) This willingness to listen and interact with people is a good sign that they will be more receptive to dog training and be more sociable.

Now remember, you first decided why you wanted the dog. Is it as a companion? If so you may want to select one of the pups in between the dominant dog and the most submissive.

A word of caution, unless you are excellent at dog training, you may not want the alpha dog. Alpha dogs may decide to train you and rule the house! They take a knowledgeable, patient dog trainer, but can make excellent dogs. There are some tasks for which you may wish to select an alpha dog, such as herding or guarding.

If you want a quiet, reserved dog that responds well to your voice commands quickly, is eager to please, is good with small children or the elderly, the ultimate lap puppy, you may want to select the more submissive pup. A rambunctious house is not for this dog.

When you think you have a candidate, do some testing. Take the puppy to a testing area where there are no other distractions. Back away from the pup and call her to you. Walk away from the pup. Does she follow? If she does not, this may indicate independence. Carefully, roll the pup over on its back and hold it there for 30 seconds to test the degree of submissiveness and willingness to be dominated by you and to be receptive to dog training.

Essentials of Breeding Bearded Dragons

2007-03-30T16:07:00.001-07:00

To breed bearded dragons, you must create their natural seasons to bring the females into heat. This is called pre-condition. Before starting pre-condition, you should make sure that both your male, and female bearded dragons are well, healthy, and mature enough to be bred.

Pre-conditioning Steps

The first step is called the photoperiod, and is intended to simulate the winter season. Your UVB light will need a timer on it, and you should be set for 10 hours of light, and 14 hours of darkness, reduce the heat in the enclosure slightly. Ideally, the basking spot should be a maximum of 78 degrees, while the rest of the enclosure should be kept between 64 to 67 degrees. While you are simulating the photoperiod, you should decrease the food being given to the breeding pair. All together, the photoperiod should last around 6 weeks. After this period, you can change the lighting back to 12 hours of night, and 12 hours of light.

After the photoperiod has ended, you will need to provide more food than usual, and, where possible, offer fattier foods, such as wax worms. This is an important step that will help put weight, and condition onto your bearded dragons, getting them ready to breed.

After around 4 weeks after the photoperiod, you should make sure that the males and females are kept together. If there are more than one pair in the tank, you may notice that the males will become aggressive toward each other, and start to fight. The females will show obvious signs of submissiveness such as waving their arms, and bobbing their heads slowly. Once the female becomes fertile, she will begin looking for a place to lay her eggs. This is usually a soft, sandy place. Make sure that you provide such an area for her, by placing a mixture of play sand, and garden soil. The females are easily identifiable when they are pregnant, as they will appear much heavier than previously.

The Eggs, And Incubation

Once your female bearded dragon has laid her eggs, make note of the spot they have been placed. Then after she has finished, dig the eggs up with a spoon. It is vital that you are careful not to rotate the eggs when shifting them. It is possible to make your own incubator, although it is often easier, and the success rates are much higher with a bought incubator. The temperature must be kept at 85 degrees at all times, and must never go below 83 degrees. Eggs will need to be kept moist; you can do this by placing a small container of water at the bottom of the incubator, and misting the eggs with a fine spray regularly.

Hatching, And Caring For New Born Lizards

The eggs will usually hatch after 24 hours. Sometimes this may take a little longer. Just before the hatchlings emerge, you will notice that the eggs will begin to collapse. Once the hatchlings have emerged from their shells, it is time to place them in a rearing tank. The hatchlings will be very hungry, and need to be fed often to stop them from chewing at tails and toes, which do not grow back. Hatchlings must be fed very small wax worms, and crickets. Make sure that you don't feed them food that is too large, or you may cause them damage. Hatchlings need to be fed 3 times a day until they are 4 months old. After this, you can reduce their meal times to once per day. Offer the hatchlings foods such as greens, and flowers as well as worms, and crickets.

All Pets Work - Reward Them With Kindness and Good Health

2007-03-29T09:44:00.001-07:00

Have you ever watched as a "Guide Dog" stops a blind person at a stoplight? A period of training gives a guide dog the ability to safely help someone exist in a sightless world. The guide dog also gives unconditional companionship through it's bond with the owner. The owner's safety is paramount in the working mind of the dog. These two have a relationship as great as any human relationship.

How about the safety to all of us who travel? Have you ever watched a drug or explosive sniffing dog operate at an airport? It's a fantastic sight! Because of a dog's super sensitive nose (approximately 400 times more sensitive than a humans) he can detect even traceable amounts of those substances. We must be thankful for the safety they afford us.

Recent studies and tests indicate that dogs can detect cancer. Remarkable and reassuring that medical science can utilize this animal ability in this day of technology.

Did you know Pets are good for your health?

Arthritis sufferers find relief from having a dog present, possibly because of more activity required to care or nurture an animal.

Cancer patients, especially children, had reduced stress in the trauma of cancer treatments. Emotional distress was also reduced.

In a test at Brooklyn College, a test was done concerning heart attack victims that found dog owners

were eight times more likely to survive beyond a year past the attack. Possibly due to the need for walking the dog whereby gaining exercise time.

Alzheimer's disease patients also appeared more alert and had fewer behavioral problems when a dog was a resident of the facility.

Nursing homes commonly have pets to soothe and comfort patients as well as helping with exercise
programs.

Numerous books are available concerning pets and their interaction with people and how they can also teach as well as nurture humans.

A passing note: Pets sleep when they are tired, eat when hungry and give love unconditionally.
Maybe we can learn a lot from them!

Finding The Best German Shepherd Names Made Easier

2007-03-27T07:39:00.001-07:00

Finding good German Shepherd dog names is no easy task. When one considers that this breed has consistently ranked as one of the most popular dog breeds in the world, it's no wonder that you as a lucky owner will want to find a name that fits like glove.

A couple of things you may have struggled with when coming up with a name, is whether to give your Shepherd a general dog name, meaning a good dog name that might be shared by other dogs, or a German dog name, meaning one that reflects this breeds country of origin.

Well have no fear, for this article will share with you puppy name suggestions that will cover both of these categories. Keeping in mind that the German Shepherd is such an intelligent, hard working breed, when coming up with these names we intentionally stayed clear of foo-foo dog names. You certainly won't find any names like Sparky, or Puddles on this list!

In our first category we've picked a few general names that we felt might fit this breed. We hope you'll agree.

General German Shepherd Names...

Apollo: Like the ancient Roman god, this dog has a presence of it's own.

Duke: A stately name for the dog who rules your palace.

Majestic: A good name for a dog that is just that…

Rambo: For the Shepherd who thrives on adventure.

Tiara: A feminine, yet strong sounding female name.

Other general names…

Avalanche, Freedom, Genghis, Harley, K-9, Max, Ninja, Rio, Saber, Sarge, Summer, Thunder, Tia

In this next category, we've listed German dog names and their meanings. Hopefully, by providing the meanings, it will make choosing the right name easier, and the name more special to you and your dog.

German Dog Names...

Boy Names and their meanings…

Arnold - Eagle, Powerful

Axel - Father of peace

Barrett - Strong as a bear

Bruno - Brown haired

Conrad - Brave counsel

Hank - Ruler of the estate

Jaegar - Hunter

Kaiser - Leader

Karl -A free man

Lance - Knight's attendant

Otto - Rich, wealthy

Reinhard - Brave, or a fox

other boy names…

Audi, Autobahn, Atlas, Attila, Beethoven, Blitz, Boris, Brando, Caspar, Conan, Einstein, Fabian, Franz, Freud, Fritz, Gunther, Gustav, Hannibal, Hanns, Herman, Igor, Klaus, Luger, Max, Mozart, Navarone, Reinold, Rembrandt, Romel, Rudy, Schnaps, Siegfried, Wolfgang

Girl Names and their meanings…

Adele - Noble, kind

Alison - Of noble birth

Anna - Gracious

Berta - Intelligent; Glorious

Brigitte - Strong spirited

Brooke - A stream

Elke - Noble and kind

Elsa - Noble

Emily - Industrious

Emma - All embracing

Gretchen - Little pearl

Heidi - Noble and kind

Katrina - Pure

Steffi - A garland or crown

other girl names…

Adelle, Avita, Babette, Bavaria, Blanca, Brandy, Brita, Danika, Elke, Elsa, Enya, Fraeulein, Hannah, Kalif, Kasandra, Kazimir, Misha, Noeska, Rachel, Sabine

I'm sure you'll agree that your Shepherd deserves the best, not only in it's care, but also the care you show when choosing the best name possible. Considering that you'll be using that same name over 30,000 times over your dogs lifetime, you can see how important choosing the right German Shepherd dog name can be.

Cats: Don't Strike Or Harm Them

2007-03-25T14:52:00.001-07:00

Cat or dogs? Which one would you choose? Both of them are our cherished pets. But by nature cats are quite different from dogs. Their behavior might at times be strange, mysterious, exasperating and maybe even alarming. Even after that if you want to understand them and be their friends you have to be quiet patient. But if one comes to understand why a cat behaves the way he does, you will find it easier to understand the wonder of their companionship.

But always remember and never forget even for a moment that you should not ever hit an animal for wrongdoing. This is not the way to teach our pets and will alienate their behaviour and their love for you. If you do strike your cat, the whole relationship can break down and that may be for a lifetime.

But before we start training our cats to do something or to stop doing something, we need to look at how cats learn. Since they are ignorant to our mode of conversation they tend to learn by experience and more than above all, our affection. To them it happens that if the experience is good, they will try to repeat it. But if the experience appears to be unpleasant for them, they will try to avoid it in the future. Try to understand and follow this. They enjoy scratching the furniture with their claws and, since they are fond of doing this, they continue to do it. But if they, for example, get burned by a candle flame then they get a shock and they won't do it again. The same response is true if anyone beats them or harms them - they may not be able to repair or trust that friendship.

It's Bug Season

2007-03-24T08:45:00.001-07:00

Some bugs are better than others. Take ladybugs for instance. They clean up all those garden destroying aphids. Even the ugliest of spiders help us out with those annoying mosquitos.

Then you have fleas and ticks. They can bring out "search and destroy" in even the holiest of holistic humans.

Before you haul out the big guns, like the ones you just dot onto the back of your pets fur and forget for a month, try some natural repellents first.

Why?

Those "spot on" insecticides are pretty severe. Do a search online for one of the active ingredients on the package, and see what comes up. Unfortunately, it isn't very comforting. And the words "inactive ingredient" does not mean "neutral". It means a chemical that is not the working part of the product.

If you have children that like to nuzzle the pet with their face, chronically ill, very young, allergy prone, or older pet, using harsh chemicals should be a concern to you. One of the biggest concerns around these chemicals is not what we know about them, but what we do not know. Just because a product is deemed safe under isolated scientific circumstances, does not mean it is safe in all circumstances. Our pets often fall under the "all circumstances" category because they share an integral part of our family.

What alternatives are there? Plenty, actually.

It will take a bit more work than simply cracking open a small tube and dripping it onto the back of your pet, but it won't take THAT much effort. The hardest part will be deciding which alternative method to use. In the end you will feel much better knowing your pet, your children, and your environment will be safer for it.

Here are some alternatives.

*Cloud Nine by Halo is a combination of aromatic oils you mix with water into a spray. It can be used on pets, bedding, and you can safely soak their collar in it. Your pet may have an aversion to the aroma at first, but smell receptors are designed to ignore smells that continue on and on (that is why you stop smelling a scented candle after it has been burning awhile). Also, do not spray your dogs face or head, use a sponge for that area instead.

*Food Grade Diatomaceous Earth is a flour-like looking substance, but under the microscope is really the fossil remains of marine organisms. It works on many bugs including fleas and internal parasites by mechanical action. The fossils are razor sharp to insects and scratch their protective coating. The bug dehydrates and dies. The food grade version is the safest, and can be added pet food to control internal parasites. You can also dust it into your carpeting, floors, or directly on your pet and his bedding. You can mix it with water as a spray for a more controlled broadcast (This is the method I recommend if you have an aversion to dust).

*De Flea is a chemical for those who really have a flea problem. It is probably the safest chemical. It works by softening the protective coating on fleas (mechanical action like diatomaceous earth). You can use it to help eliminate the initial flea problem and then switch to one of the alternative remedies above for maintenance.

*A good diet is one of the best ways to improve your pets' bug defense. Bugs thrive in unhealthy environments (well, unhealthy for pets and humans). It is their place in the life chain. If you spend the money on super quality pet food (and supplement that food because nothing is perfect) not only will your pet need less of the food, but you will boost your pets own immune system giving him a head start against the bugs.

Other things you can do is wash the pets bedding (and yours if your pet sleeps with you), vacuum often, do not leave garbage, food, or water sitting around your house, and keep your pet in shape both emotionally and physically. These things take just a little bit more work than chemicals, but everyone will benefit from them (and its cheaper in the long run).

Happy Spring!

How To Feed A Guard Dog

2007-03-22T19:11:00.001-07:00

Guard dogs have extremely important jobs and they can end up serving on patrol duty, in riot control, shore watch, sentry duty and warehouse duty to name but a few. They need to be trained to a high standard and they need to have a lot of stamina too. This means that a good diet is needed to keep their energy levels up.

What You Should Feed a Guard Dog

All guide dogs need a high level of energy to do their jobs properly. They tend to be on duty for quite a long time and that means that there is no room for a lack of energy. Anything could happen and the dog would need to be able to jump in at any time when needed. Also, they are always under some form of stress, especially in riot situations.

You would think that a guard dog would be better suited to high caloric foods which have 1500 to 1600 calories per pound, but unfortunately not even these foods are good enough. Usually guard dogs are only fed once a day and that means that they need to eat a small amount in that sitting and it has to have an extremely high caloric intake to be sufficient enough to carry them through the day. This means that the food has to have the right nutrients as well as high energy levels too.

One thing which many people do not like about patrol guard dogs is the fact that they tend to leave their stools everywhere and due to the food that they eat, it can be quite smelly as well as look a mess! Workers do not like to have their dinner or morning coffee having to smell the remains of dog stools! There is a way in which this problem can be controlled however and that is to stick to a food which is high in energy but low in dry food. It is the indigestible dry matter which causes the problem and if you reduce that then you should be OK. The stools will become less frequent and they will also not smell as badly as they did before.

Overall guard dogs need high energy food which does not have much dry matter. The food should exceed 1600 calories per pound and they should be fed one meal per day. This way they will keep their maximum performance and their energy levels will be up all day.

One last tip is to feed a guard dog out of raised dog bowls. This will reduce the amount of air ingested during feeding, which makes digestion more efficient and creates less gas.

Minnesota State Statutes Regarding Outdoor Dogs

2007-03-21T12:36:00.001-07:00

If you're going to keep a dog outdoors in the State of Minnesota, there are some specific requirements you need to be aware of. Minnesota State Statute 343.40 addresses the subject:

Minnesota State Statute 343.40

Dog Houses

Subd. 1. In general. A person in charge or control of any dog which is kept outdoors or in and unheated enclosure shall provide the dog with shelter and bedding as prescribed in this section as a minimum.

Subd. 2. Building specifications. The shelter shall include a moisture proof and windproof structure of suitable size to accommodate the dog and allow retention of body heat. It shall be made of durable material with a solid, moisture-proof floor or a floor raised at least two inches from the ground. Between November 1 and March 31 the structure must have a windbreak at the entrance. The structure shall be provided with a sufficient quantity of suitable bedding material consisting of hay, straw, cedar shavings, blankets, or the equivalent, to provide insulation and protection against cold and dampness and promote retention of body heat.

Subd. 3. Shade. Shade from the direct rays of the sun, during the months of June to September shall be provided.

Subd. 4. Farm dogs. In lieu of the requirements of subdivision 2 and 3, a dog kept on a farm may be provided with access to a barn with a sufficient quantity of loose hay or bedding to protect against cold and dampness.

Subd. 5. Zoning. All shelter required by this section shall be subject to all building or zoning regulations of any city, township, county or state.

Subd. 6. Penalty. Whoever violates the provisions of this section is guilty of a petty misdemeanor.

In order for your dog's outdoor shelter to be in compliance with this statute, here are the key points you need to understand.

1. A dog house with windows, a leaking roof, slats in the sides, or an open doorway are all in violation.

2. For the dog house to be of 'suitable to size to retain the dog's body heat', the following is recommended: the door height should be at least 3/4 of your pet's shoulder height (from the ground to the neck), the length and width should be at least equal to but not more than 25% larger than the distance between the nose and the base of the tail, and the height of the house should be at least 25% taller and no more than 50% the height of the pet when standing.

3. The dog house floor must be 2 inches above the ground. Standing water or mud do not qualify as ground. If the house stands in water or mud, or leans into water or mud, then it must be relocated to a dry spot, where the entire floor of the house will be 2 inches above dry ground.

4. Between November 1 and March 31, it is not sufficient to have an open doorway on the dog house. A dry piece of carpet may be used, however it is preferable that the dog house be equipped with a clear plastic door to allow the dog the ability to see light, approaching people, and other movement.

5. Dry bedding must be provided within the dog house. Damp or wet bedding is not acceptable.

6. June 1 - September 30, the house must be located in shade, whether man-made or natural.

The statute is very specific and overlooking any one of these steps is a violation of the State Statute. The fine for a petty misdeameanor is approximately $300 per occurrence, plus any applicable surcharges.

So let's say you agree to all of the above and have complied on every point ~ you're now ready to house your dog outdoors, right? NO. You are now only in compliance on the minimum standard for the dog house itself. However, there is still State Statute 346.39:

Subd. 1. Food. Dogs and cats must be provided with food of sufficient quantity and quality to allow for normal growth or the maintenance of body weight. Feed standards shall be those recommended by the National Research Council.

Subd. 2. Water. Dogs and cats must be provided with clean, potable water in sufficient quantity to satisfy the animal's needs or supplied by free choice. Snow or ice is not an adequate water source.

Snow or ice is not an adequate water source. This is possibly the most important item to understand, considering that water left in a bowl may turn to ice in mere minutes on a Minnesota winter's day, and will most certainly freeze overnight. A heated dish with an electric coil is the only practical solution, and these may be purchased for as little as $30. However, you will want to investigate various heated bowls, as not all bowls are capable of maintaining the proper temperature when the mercury drops to 30 below zero. Additionally, puddles, and stagnant or dirty water do not qualify as "potable" under the statute.

It is also important to remember that your pet may require additional calories in the winter months as it takes additional energy to keep body temperature regulated. Consult your veterinarian to determine the appropriate daily calorie intake your dog will require to spend the winter outdoors.

Even though you provide adequate housing, warm water and food, and despite the fact that your animal has a fur coat, animals that are kept outdoors in freezing temperatures are still at risk for hypothermia and/or frostbite. Signs of hypothermia include shivering, slow or shallow respiration, and lethargy. If you suspect hypothermia, the animal should be taken to a veterinarian immediately. If you attempt to warm the animal yourself, it is essential that ONLY the pet's abdomen and thorax are warmed; warming paws, ears, or other extremities first can cause the animal to go into shock.

Frostbite occurs most commonly on ears, paws, and tails. Frostbitten body parts are unlikely to have sensation until they begin to thaw, at which time they may become very red, swollen, and painful. It is not uncommon in Minnesota for dogs and cats to lose ears and tails due to extreme frostbite. Again, treating hypothermia or frostbite should not be attempted at home, these conditions require prompt attention from a veterinarian.

If you must keep your dog outdoors, particularly during extreme temperatures, there is much to consider. Your local humane society will be able to assist with any specific questions you have regarding dog houses, appropriate kennel space, and State statutes. The most important thing to remember is that protecting your pet against the elements is not only humane, it is the law.

Vestibular Disease in Dogs and Cats

2007-03-20T06:35:00.001-07:00

The vestibular system controls balance and prevents an animal from falling over. It does this by holding and constantly adjusting the position of the eyes, head and body in relation to gravity. When there is disease affecting this system, though it is seldom life threatening, the symptoms caused can be particularly distressing for a pet owner. Animals may tilt their head to one side, circle either clockwise or anticlockwise, fall over repeatedly, roll to one side, be generally wobbly and display abnormal pupil movement in their eyes. Here we look at the physiology of the vestibular system in dogs and cats, what can go wrong and how a good veterinarian will diagnose and treat it.

What exactly is the vestibular system?

The vestibular system is a sensory system consisting of a receptor organ within the inner ear, the vestibular nerve itself, and a balance control centre at the back of the brain. The receptor organ in the inner ear detects the position and movement of the head in space, both when the animal is resting or moving. Information on the position of the head is converted into electrical signals, which are transmitted via the vestibular nerve to the brain. The balance control centre in the brain then processed this information, and sends motor signals to the muscles controlling the positions of the eyes and limbs according to the movement of the head.

What is vestibular syndrome?

Vestibular syndrome is a general term describing disease of the vestibular system. The term alone does not provide any information on which part of the vestibular system is affected, and what the cause is.

What are the signs to look out for?

Animals with vestibular disease may display any or all of the following signs:

1. Head tilt

This is rotation of the head so that one ear is lower than the other. It occurs due to loss of antigravity muscle tone on one side of the neck.

2. Circling

Circling often occurs with vestibular disease, but can also occur with forebrain tumors. Generally, tight circles mean vestibular disease while wide circles mean a brain tumor.

3. Nystagmus (wandering pupils)

This means involuntary rhythmic movement of the eyeballs. The pupils tend to drift to one side (the slow phase) and then jerk back to the middle (the fast phase). Usually the slow phase is toward the diseased side.

4. Strabismus (squint)

This means abnormal position of the eyeballs, rather like the condition commonly known as a squint.

5. Ataxia (wobbliness)

This means walking in an uncoordinated fashion, and is seen with a wide range of diseases other than vestibular disease, such as those affecting the brain, spinal cord or peripheral nerves. Animals can adopt a broad based stance, exhibit swaying of the head, and leaning, falling and rolling to one side.

Peripheral vs Central Vestibular Disease

Vestibular disease is categorized as either peripheral or central, according to where in the system the disease originates from. Peripheral vestibular disease is where the disease is located in either the receptor organs in the inner ear or the vestibular nerve. Central vestibular disease is where the disease is located in the balance control centre in the brain (to be precise, either in the brainstem vestibular nuclei or in the cerebellum).

The first task for the veterinarian is to identify whether he/she is dealing with peripheral or central vestibular disease. This is done by looking carefully for all of the symptoms described above, and further characterizing them by direction and nature. It is beyond the remit of this article to go into the exact way of differentiating them clinically, and though it can usually be achieved by a competent vet by examination alone, sometimes further tests are necessary to do so.

Causes of peripheral vestibular syndrome

Middle or inner ear disease (infection or tumor)

Nasopharyngeal polyps

Head trauma

Drug toxicity (e.g. gentamycin)

Underactive thyroid gland

Congenital (present at birth)

Idiopathic (cause unidentifiable)

Causes of central vestibular syndrome

Brain hemorrhage or infarct

Infectious encephalitis (bacterial, viral or fungal)

Meningoencephalitis

Head trauma

Drug toxicity (e.g. metronidazole)

Brain cyst

Brain tumor (primary or metastatic)

Thiamine deficiency

Neurodegenerative disease

Making a diagnosis

First, the veterinarian must distinguish between peripheral and central disease based on clinical signs. If there is doubt, diagnostics for both should be done. If the veterinarian suspects central disease, he/she may choose to rule out peripheral disease with various tests first because the tests for central disease are expensive (e.g. MRI or CT scan).

The following procedure is what is most commonly done when looking for causes of peripheral vestibular disease. If drug toxicity has been ruled out (no metronidazole, aminoglycoside antibiotics or topical chlorhexidine recently) then the external ears are examined using an otoscope (illuminated and magnified inspection device with a rigid conical end which is inserted into the ear canal). Ear infections, tumors and polyps may be detected this way. Middle ear disease is suspected if the ear drum appears to be ruptured, bulging, cloudy or red in color. Thyroid levels are usually measured by a blood test at this stage to rule out hypothyroidism.

The next step of the investigation is taking xrays of the skull. Several views are required but the most important one is that which shows the tympanic bullae in the middle ears most clearly. This requires general anesthesia to allow correct positioning.

If the tests at this stage have all come back normal, many cases will be given a presumptive diagnosis of idiopathic vestibular syndrome. This is usually because a) it is by far the most likely diagnosis, and b) further specialized tests are costly. If however further tests are to be carried out, MRI or CT scanning, electromyography and nerve conduction studies are a possibility in some referral centers.

Rocky's Road - The Misadventure of a Globe-Trotting Boarder Collie

2007-03-18T15:43:00.001-07:00

Whish! Tracy swerved, nearly having to pull her car over. She was laughing to hard to drive. Whish! Plop! Jingle! Then, another Whish! Dog toys were flying past her rearview mirror like fuzzy meteors headed for earth. She was not two miles form Best Friend's Animal Sanctuary and Rocky's antics had already rendered her incapsitated. Again, jingles erupted out of the musical walrus.

Rocky has always loved his toys. Some wonder if he had them on the streets of Beirut. His handlers always picture him gathering stuffed animals from the collapsed rubble of bombed out homes. No doubt he'd pile them up, keeping them close together in pure Border Collie fashion. Soon rescuers came, but not for his playthings.

Rocky is one of hundreds of animals rescued by Beirut for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (BETA) during last falls conflict with Israel. When Betas's shelter was damaged the animals were moved. When neighbors threatened to kill them all, they moved again. This time the refugee pack came to America. The kind souls at Best Friends Animal Society evacuated the rag-tag menagerie, bringing them all to their facility outside Kanab, Utah.

At two years of age, the stunning Rocky was already better traveled than many American citizens. Now, he was on his way to Colorado. Would this finally be his forever-home? A flying tiger toy balanced off the dashboard as the Jeep Cherokee rolled up Hwy 89. From the back, Tracy's own Lebanon Rescue, a cantacourous terrier mix named Flipper, snarled his disapproval. Why had Rocky gotten the good seat?

As the Muttly Crew crossed Utah and wound up the Rocky Mountains, Tracy reflected on the past three weeks. It was her brother and his wife that were adopting Rocky. Or, so she thought. Tracy had taken the dog to obedience classes, drove him on outings, worked with him on the Best Friends agility course, etc. One of them had a natural talent for agility. It wasn't Tracy. She believed she laid the foundations of a great pet for her family. There was one flaw in the plan.

Within a Colorado day the blemish appeared. It was Tracy's family that needed intensive training, not the dog. True, Rocky was not yet perfect. He needed house training and paced and whined when left alone or shut in a room. But, why not? He was a Border Collie after all. While he has a dash of husky or ausie, Rocky's needy heart and wrestles mind are Border through and through. Tracy was aghast by her own family's lack of preparations.

Her brother had actually taken down his dog run. It was ugly. Sure, he had a dog door. It was in the box lying against the garage wall. Rocky's 'facilities?' They were a massive porch with a whopping three foot railing and almost that much dirt area for his bathroom requirements. Tracy hung her head in shame. Despite having ample acreage and money brother dearest was not prepared for his commitment. "And, he's literally a rocket-scientist," she mumbled under her breath. Lord help genetics.

"Your enclosure will not work, she told Tim, her big brother. "You need to fence part of the actual yard." Then he iced the cake. "But, I have to work tomorrow." "I thought you wear retiring," she said. He had not. Nor was he willing to add more fencing or work a trainer. We both have the same Father's eyes, Tracy silently pondered.

The next morning, Flipper snarled his disapproval at the world. Tracy went to Denver to meet her 'normal' brother, John, and Rocky was shut inside. He was shut inside his giant new home with all white carpets. Happy, happy, joy, joy, Rocky took his revenge.

As John approached the restaurant table the following morning he told Tracy, "I have some bad news." She didn't miss a beat. "Tim just called and I'm taking Rocky back to Utah with me. I'll have a large chai with soy." "Ah, you're right," John stumbled. No doubt thinking, his sister should have been the rocket scientist. Tracy pretended to be undaunted.

Inside she dreaded ten more hours in a car with Rocky and a disgruntled Flipper. She was mortified at the thought of telling Best Friends her own brother, whom she recommended, was such a wanker. Overall, however, her mind was dancing with glee.

She'd already decided Rocky could not stay with someone unwilling to prepare for him, work with him or provided him a secure home and continued training. (The mind and body of a Border Collie needs more.) Now she could play apologetic instead of condescending. Now no 'Breaking and Entering' would be on her record.

Back across the country the trio rolled. Tracy's heart broke when she returned Rocky to his run at Best Friends. She'd chosen the wrong home for him. Even the greatest sanctuary on earth is no substitute for a loving home. His rocky road will continue a little longer.

To this day Tracy, a Best Friends volunteer, still walks Rocky, bumbles through the agility course and takes him for drives. Whish! While he waits for his forever-family, he keeps his toys on her back seat.

How To Potty Train Your Parrot

2007-03-16T13:46:00.001-07:00

Parrots can be potty trained if you are willing to perform some dedicated and consistent training. Seldom are parrot perfect about their potty training but with some work, you can get near-perfect results. In fact, you can usually obtain results so good that when the parrot does have an accident, it is because you failed to pay attention!

Parrot characteristics vary according to their various conditions. Wild parrots do not potty where they sleep or eat. They move to another spot. In case of caged parrots, an adult bird will usually move to a spot far from its food and sleeping perch to defecate. Birds can be trained to "go" in different places, but often the cage is the preferred location.

SunDance Trained Me

I must say that I did not invent this training technique. SunDance taught me how to train parrots this behavior. Whenever she would potty on a shirt, she would be taken back to her cage and told to "go home" while I changed shirts or cleaned up the mess. Often, I might get busy and not go back to get her immediately, so she was not happy with this situation. Soon, she began to say "go home" before she defecated, giving me time to take her to her cage, let her poop and take her back with me. She liked this much better! If I did not respond quickly, she would nip gently on my neck and repeat her command to me to take her home. After she told me the third time, she would simply let go. It was up to me and her other humans to respond to the command she gave us.

Potty Times

Parrots go potty at specific times that can be used to train them. First thing in the morning, they will potty. About 10 minutes after eating, they will potty. This is reliable and you can use these times to know when to give the command and expect results.

Other parrot characteristics include getting into a certain posture before pottying. They sort of squat down and spread their rump feathers so they do not get them dirty. You will learn to watch for this body language and use it as well during training.

Train Parrot

Choose a word for the action of defecation. "Go poop", "go poo", "potty please" or something similar works just fine. Use this word whenever you see your parrot potty.

First thing in the morning, after saying "good morning", tell your parrot to go potty. Wait; it will happen very soon. Once it does, lavish praise on your parrot. Make a really big deal about what a great bird he or she is.

Watch for your parrot to finish eating breakfast and repeat the potty process. Also, watch for the potty body language and use the potty command and praise again.

In Closing

Some parrots learn this behavior quickly; others take some time to get the hang of it. But most parrots will get the idea in time and become reasonably consistent in avoiding messing up your clothes, sofa or carpet.

The key to training this behavior is consistency. After your parrot begins to let you know it needs to go potty, do not fail to respond. Stop what you are doing and take your bird to potty and praise it. If you sometimes ignore the need, you will not be nearly as successful as if you take the bird to potty promptly.

Puppy Training - Puppy House Training

2007-03-15T07:17:00.001-07:00

If you are a dog lover like me and have a new puppy at home, you know how anxious you could get. I love my puppy Ruff. He is a great partner for a walk and for a good time on the river banks. But training him was essential and I couldn't afford to send him to the Puppy Training School Near where I stay. I also disliked the idea of my puppy being taken care of by someone else whom I don't know and trust. With my previous experience of Pet trainers, beating up without reasons and training in the most unethical manner I keep out of the next door puppy training classes.

That's when I started looking for Puppy House training classes. I wanted to learn how to keep Ruff under control. He was getting a bit aggressive about his boundaries and people he met. My Friends started keeping away from him as he growled at them when they were too near to him of me. I realized it soon and leashed him initially to avoid accidents. That wasn't enough. I had to train him and allow him to be loved by others. I started off with Aggression training with Leash and then with reinforcement. It worked well but the time I spent with my puppy was immense. I had to spend at least 4-5 hours with my puppy , training him on a new chore every day and every single trick took me at least a week to get him understand. I was of course annoyed and started loosing my patience. But looking into my puppies eyes I could see that I had to do it and I continued.

I have spent at least 4-5 hours every day and trained my puppy to teach him the best mannerism, and control him over time. My Puppy training has enabled Ruff to keep his temper and also to control himself. It doesn't matter if its potty training or Just aggressiveness, I can know it from Ruffs movements. Today if you had to do a Puppy house training for your puppies you could be spending only one or two hours a day. You can also get to be doing some real professional puppy house training using the tips and tricks you can gain from some of the best books online.

Ring Worm - An Illness Common To Dogs

2007-03-13T20:15:00.001-07:00

Even when fed and cared for properly, there are health problems that dogs can be prone to. With the many illnesses that can affect a dog's health, it is very important for the owner to be aware of the need for good sanitation in the food, the doghouse and anywhere the dog spends a lot of time. To protect against such deadly viruses as rabies, etc., dogs must also be routinely vaccinated. Below, we will discuss ringworm, a common dog illness – what it is and what to do about it.

What is ringworm?

A fungal infection, ringworm can have an adverse affect on a dog appearance as well as its health.

What are the signs of the ring worm infection?

A small area without any hair is an obvious sign of ringworm. This area will also have scaly skin and pustules. The dog will scratch because of the itching caused by ringworm. Over time, the affected area will grow larger if not treated. The most common areas to have ringworm lesions are the legs, the head and the tail.

How to diagnose the ring worm infection

There are several methods used to diagnose ringworm. The use of a specialized black lamp called Wood's Lamp is the most commonly used method. Ringworm will emit a fluorescent color when exposed to the light of a Wood's Lamp. There are two forms of ringworm, m.canis or t. mentagrophytes, that do not emit any fluorescent color, so another method must be used to confirm a diagnoses.

How to treat ringworm?

If a dog is otherwise in good health, ringworm lesions will clear up on their own in about four months. If the infection is severe, treatment is warranted. To keep it from spreading, the hair around the lesion must be trimmed away without irritating the skin. Then apply a topical anti-fungal cream, such as miconazole or lotrimin to the affected area. Be sure to take measures to prevent the dog from licking the medicated wound.

In very severe cases, an anti-fungal shampoo [miconazole 2%, ketoconazole, chlorhexidine 0.5%] and an anti-fungal dip [lime sulfur, chlorhexidine 2%] will also need to be used. The veterinarian may prescribe an oral anti-fungal madication, such as griseofulvin or itraconazole, to help the healing process advance more rapidly.

With good care and information, a dog owner can prevent the common dog illnesses from being too much of an issue.

Akita Training & What To Look Out For

2007-03-12T14:12:00.001-07:00

When it comes to Akita training, you probably already know that it can sometimes be difficult to train your Akita dog. This is simply because the Akita dog is a highly intelligent, fearless and spontaneous animal. These of course are wonderful characteristics, but can lead to making training you're Akita rather difficult. So can the ultra intelligent Akita dog be difficult to train?

For starters, Akita's are EXTREMELY protective of their owners and family. While this means undying loyalty to you and you're family, it also means that they have a strong tendency to be rather aggressive and hot tempered towards any "unknown" visitors. This characteristic is the most difficult personality trait that needs to be trained when it comes to Akita training. Of course with the proper knowledge of Akita training, this shouldn't pose to be too much trouble.

Akita dogs are also very intelligent animals, and it is for this very reason that they may often times think they "know better", and try to take their own path…even towards their own training. However this means that if you have the proper knowledge of how to train you're Akita dog, then they will learn very quickly and with ease.

Akita's have a strong tendency to NOT get along with other pets, but this trait can be somewhat cured. Because Akita's are very dominate and territorial animals, they're not very big fans of sharing space with other animals.

From the moment you bring you're Akita home to the days that you're Akita is resting underneath the shade, it is absolutely IMPRETIVE that they know who their master is at all times, otherwise it is very likely that they will run all over you. A timid or submissive owner is not recommended for this breed, they're strong will can over power you.

It also must be noted, that while Akita's do get along very well with children that they already know within the family, they have a tendency to not tolerate new children that are brought into the family, making it not a good choice for a family who expects more little ones down the road.

Now all these traits should not put you off owning an Akita dog. Yes, Akita training can provide the owner with some challenges, but the rewards are very well worth it. It is also important to note that while this breed might have its difficulties, these are traits that can be drastically settled down, but require the proper specialized knowledge to do so. Being an expert on dog training myself, I highly recommend that you acquire the right specialized knowledge of how to train you're Akita properly, or you're Akita experience might prove to be somewhat bitter.

It should also be noted, that training you're Akita is actually not a hard process, even though it might seem as such, the Akita's incredible intelligence makes it a very quick and fun learner.

Benefits Between Pets and Humans

2007-03-11T08:09:00.001-07:00

Pets can be beneficial to your health and well being, as much as you are to theirs. Did you know that being around a pet for just 15 minutes can lower blood pressure, heart rate, reduce stress levels and lift your spirits? Animals can make you feel less lonely, less depressed, distract you from pain and ailments, as well as be entertaining and stimulating to the other senses. They have a lot of love, warmth, and companionship to give.

Most pets, especially dogs and cats, have the ability to sense and feel when something is wrong. When you're feeling sad, depressed, or hurt, they seem to know it, and will do just about anything in their power to try to comfort you and make you feel better. A pet can put a person's needs aside, where they think less about themselves and more about the animal.

It has been tried and tested in many areas to see how well this action is performed, and there is now areas in hospitals and nursing homes that use this technique, called pet therapy. The preferred use of the term is called Animal Assisted Therapy.

However, what is good for you is also good for your pet. Your pet also has days when they are feeling blue, and or possibly achy or depressed about something. Let them know you care about them as much as they care about you. Pets depend on you to care for them when they need it. Your pet needs you for so many things during the course of their life, if they are to maintain a happy and healthy life. They have most of the same needs as you do, yet they can't always do for themselves as a human can. This is where you need to show your pet just how much they mean to you. It's not much, just a few minutes of your time each day will in most cases do just fine. Just a few short minutes of gently playing with your pet, giving it attention by pampering it with a bath, brushing, or simple talking and petting time, helps to relieve their stress, sadness, irritability, and loneliness. It's a great pick me up and adds a highlight and special feeling to their day.

Pets need to feel needed, but they also need to feel loved and cared about as well. If you give 100% to your pet, they will give 200% in return. So, the next time you see your pet looking depressed or moping about, take the time to stop and give them that little bit extra. Chances are, the next time you're feeling that way, they will come to you to return the favor.

How Cosequin DS Works

2007-03-09T18:52:00.001-08:00

In this article we will take a look at how Cosequin DS works and how it can be beneficial to your dog's quality of life.

Cosequin DS is a combination of three ingredients which are Chondroitin Sulfate, Glucosamine Hydrochloride and Manganese Ascorbate. They work together and so maintain the structure of a dog's joint cartilage whilst slowing down the enzymes which would normally break this cartilage down. The DS stands for Double Strength, these supplements are designed for large dogs over 25lbs. For smaller dogs the standard Cosequin is sufficient.

Firstly the Glucosamine Hydrochloride which is contained in the Cosequin DS supplement acts as a building block for the cartilage by supplying it with a key nutrient which will keep the cells of the cartilage healthy and working properly. It has been shown that the 99% pure glucosamine contained in Cosequin DS is absorbable by dogs easily.

Secondly the Chondroitin Sulfate is a nutrient which blocks the enzymes that will break down the cartilage in the dog's joints. Because of its low molecular weight and can only be found in its most purest form in Cosequin DS this has also been found to be easily absorbable by dogs and will also accumulate in a dog's body if it is continuously administrated to them.

Finally we come to the Manganese Ascorbate this is a very essential part of the Cosequin DS supplement as it helps to optimize the production of cartilage components.

As the cartilage is a slippery but resilient tissue which is produced and maintained by its own cells and is there to cushion the surface where two or more bone joints meet. So it in fact forms a flexible joint and unfortunately when a dog is in motion i.e., running then they are putting tremendous pressure on to these joints. Unfortunately the cartilage does not have its own blood supply and in order for nutrients to get into it they must pass through the surrounding tissue. It is vital that these nutrients pass through to the cartilage cells in order to provide the components which are necessary to maintain a very healthy cartilage structure for the dog.

Scientists are still unsure as to what factors actually cause a dog's cartilage to breakdown. By they have discovered that enzymes play quite a major role in this process. Also age, injury or the dog being over active will also increase the breakdown process against the process of the cartilage actually being replaced in the joints. What this then happens is the dog's joints become less flexible and find it more difficult to move around.

Signs of Illness for Cats

2007-03-08T12:51:00.001-08:00

Cats by nature will never show that they are hurt if they can hide it, because in the wild, the weak and hurt are targeted first. That's not to say it's impossible to know if you are paying attention to the signs.

A cat lives life like a routine and as long as their environment and diet don't change around them they will act and behave the same on a daily basis.

Changes like a change in appetite, activity, weight, behavior, sounds, toileting, sleep, interactions with you, coat, breathing rate, movement, coughing, vomiting, sneezing, amount of sleep, breathing or even a different smell are all signs you should be looking for if you suspect your cat may be ill. Even prolonged bad breath is a sign that they may have kidney problems.

Weight change is something you should keep an eye for which isn't as noticeable as the other signs. Weight gain or loss of two or three pounds is a lot for a cat, equivalent to 20-30 lbs for us. Weight gain may be the first signs for diabetes.

Keep track of what is in the litter box, if no changes were done to their diets and haven't been eating table scraps, what you find in the litter box should be constant.

Call your veterinarian as soon as you think your cat is sick. We tend to wait till things get worse even for ourselves which just make things harder and more expensive to handle. Our pet cats deserve the best care possible.

Cats And Children Does It Fit

2007-03-07T06:45:00.001-08:00

Cats are know to give various benefits to their owners but does this also apply to children? Yes it does providing you introduce your child to the right behavior towards pets. Cats can help to increase the wellness of your child. It is no problem to have a child with a cat but you need to make sure your child know the right behavior towards a cat. Your child doesn't know how to treat a cat, he or she must learn it first.

It is important that your child learns to develop respect for pets and animals in general. If this is provided your child can have a lot of fun growing up with a pet cat. You can buy a a cat as a gift for your child, for example on Christmas or on his/her birthday. Such a special gift will certainly make your child happy.

When you are looking for ways on how to bring out the best between your child and the pet, this article might be helpful.

• Be aware that children do not know how to treat animals the right way, they have to learn it first. Show to your child the proper way of handling and treating cats. Make sure your child does not hurt the cat, otherwise your child will probably get hurt back by the cat. It is very important that your child knows what he or she can do with a cat and what better not to do.

• Explain to your child why a cat acts in a certain way so that he or she understands how to treat a cat. Especially when it's your child's first time with a pet you need to be a guide.

• If you tell your child some facts about cats he or she can better understand why a cat acts like it does. Your child will learn the important things that he or she needs to know while playing with a cat or petting a cat.

• Make sure your child does not play to rough with the cat, this could end in a hurting child and / or cat. Cats may use their paws and your child could get hurt. Show your child how to use certain cat toys rather than using his or her bare hands.

• Let your child know that cats need a lot of sleep and that they sometimes not want to be bothered.

• Remind your child the importance of not letting the cats stay inside homes. To keep their pets safe, it is a must that your child learns how to protect the cat from any untoward incident.

These are things you have to remember when having children and cats at home. Try to avoid any unwanted accidents or injuries by helping your child with the right treatment of a cat.

Control a Barking Dog

2007-03-05T15:13:00.001-08:00

Dogs bark for a good number of reasons. It can vary from the simplest reason to the more complex ones. Barking is inherent with any dog because that is how they communicate with each other. But there are some dogs whose incessant barking really annoys not just the owners but also the neighborhood as well.

Reasons Why Your Dog Barks Incessantly

Here are some things an owner should know why they bark that continuously and annoyingly.

Dogs need attention, and dogs, by nature, love to play. If they are ignored, they are more prone to depression and/or start becoming unruly. They need the owner to start giving them attention, some time to play or take a walk in the park. It is basic knowledge that dogs should be taken for a walk on a daily basis, rain or shine.

The dog may need something that it knows the owner could provide. It could probably be hungry or have to go pooh or something. The owner could go see what the dog is barking about and attend to it promptly. It is also good to follow a fixed schedule for feeding and potty purposes. This will train the dog when to expect their basic needs to be attended to and be less of a bother to the owner.

If the dog becomes persistent on barking after making sure that his needs have been provided for, the pet may be testing how far the owner would go to meet his demand. Hurting the dog will usually not work in the long run although it may initially stop the barking, but after a few moments, I bet the barking will start again. This can be better addressed by spraying the dog with water. This should be a warning to the dog if verbal reprimand fails to elicit the desired response from the dog. But it is still best to make the dog stop barking first through verbal command.

If the owner starts receiving complaints that the dog continuously barks whenever he's out, he could have his friend drive his car to trick the dog into thinking that the owner's gone. The owner should then hide in a spot where the dog cannot track him visually, positioning himself downwind where the dog cannot pick up his scent. If it starts barking, rush in and angrily shake a can full of stones and loudly say "No barking!" or "Quiet!" in a firm and commanding tone of voice while shaking the collar unsympathetically, letting him know who the master is.

Basic Parrot Instincts

2007-03-04T09:12:00.001-08:00

I have had quite a few conversations this last month with people regarding parrot behavior. Why do they do what they do anyway? In the most basic sense, it comes down to one thing - Instinct. Okay, so what exactly is that? Technically, it is inborn behavior patterns and responses to stimuli (including reflexes). Kind of boring sounding isn't it? But, it's why parrots do certain things.

Whether parrots are in the rainforest, the plains or your living room, they have the SAME instincts. Parrot instinct is hard wired behavior that we need to learn to work WITH, not against. Working with parrots and understanding their instincts will help you develop the mutual trust that is necessary for a good relationship with your parrot.

Instinctual behavior is not the same as learned behavior. For example, parrots have certain calls to communicate, however, they learn to scream for attention. Parrots are master manipulators when it comes to learned behaviors, they respond to your actions and emotions and can easily figure out how to "push your buttons" but I'm going to stick with the basics in this article.

Prey vs. Predator

The most important thing to remember when interacting with parrots is that they are PREY animals. Dogs and cats are PREDITORS. Parrots are always on the lookout for something that might eat them. This prey mentality is to keep them alive. Predators are fast, parrots must be faster to live.

This is why their eyes are positioned on the sides of their head and their neck can turn so they can see almost 360 degrees around them. It's the same reason that fast movements usually scare them or put them on guard. (Might be a hawk coming for lunch!)

Here are a few common behaviors and the parrots underlying instincts:

Fight or Flight

You have probably heard of the fight or flight before, it's never been more true for parrots. I am sure they prefer to flee from danger but can, and will, get nasty when flying away is not an option. When parrots sense danger the first response is to get away. Alex, my African Grey is a prime example of this one. I call it the "fly first ask questions later" behavior. If anything startles him he is off and flying. If cornered, he will actually growl or get in a striking pose.

April, my Umbrella Cockatoo, has a slightly different strategy. She also flies when threatened but she does so while screaming at the top of her lungs to warn the other members of her flock. If she is cornered, her first response is to "poof out" all her feathers and open her wings and tail out fully. This is to make her look much larger and more intimidating. Then she will rock back and forth hissing loudly. Ok, it works. Don't mess with her now.

Being wary of predators is also why parrots prefer high spots. A curtain rod or top of the cage, among others, make favorite spots. This way they are in a better position to spot potential predators. If you had to worry about being someone's lunch you would want to see them coming first to get out of the way.

Flocking

Parrots need interaction with a flock. The flock in our homes is either other birds, humans or a little of both. Parrots are social animals and count on each other to survive. One bird can alert hundreds to danger. And the mass movement of a flock of birds taking flight confuses predators, etc.

In our homes, parrots need attention from their human flock. If they don't get it, they will find ways to get it that are not particularly pleasant to us humans. Parrots will get lonely, self-destructive and can develop behavioral problems if not given enough attention. They NEED to be talked to, played with and interact with other members of their "flock."

Parrots are very "tuned in" to their flock. It's true, if you have high energy, are in a bad mood or are sick and not feeling well, your parrot companion will interact with you in different ways depending on what they "sense." Some say they are almost physic.

Flying

Flying is THE most natural behavior for a bird. It's hard to imagine how many companion birds never really fly. Even if a bird has trimmed wings, they can still fly to some extent. Flying to VERY important to both the physical and mental health of parrots. Parrots need the exercise - it's what their bodies were designed to do! Parrots that are flighted are usually more confident and comfortable. I won't get into the safety issue of clipping or not here, but I switched sides years ago and will never clip a birds wings again. That's my personal opinion.

Seeing the world a little more through a parrot's eyes, it's easier to understand where you can make some small changes to your own behavior and enjoy a better relationship with your bird. Remember - TRUST is the key! When there is mutual trust, both of you can let your hair down a bit and enjoy each others company more.

Favorite Small Dog Breeds in 2006

2007-03-02T20:57:00.001-08:00

Are you thinking of getting a small dog? Are you wondering what the most popular small dog breeds are? And why do so many people prefer a small dog?

People get small dogs for various reasons. It could be they enjoy a small dog that is easier to handle, easier to travel with, and cheaper to feed. Many who live in cities prefer a small dog because they don't have a lot of living space.

These are all good reasons to get a small dog. Others reasons could include that you want a lapdog. Almost every breed listed here makes an excellent lapdog. They all make great companions.

What are the most favorite small dog breeds? It might interest you to know that the second most popular dog in the United States is a small dog.

According to the AKC the Yorkshire Terrier jumped from third favorite to second favorite in 2006. They overtook Golden Retrievers for that second spot.

It should really come as no surprise that these little dogs are adored by so many people. With their zesty personality and penchant for adventure, they are a very fun and playful dog breed.

Second most popular small dog is the Dachshund. Weighing in at just eleven pounds they are the sixth favorite dog in the United States. They, too, have a bold and adventurous personality.

The Poodle comes next at position eight. They weigh only four to eight pounds, just right for sitting in your lap and being your companion (both of which they love to do). If you get a Poodle you will find they want to be wherever you are.

Like the other small dog breeds they should not be left outdoors. They cannot tolerate cold, and they will be miserable if separated from their family.

The next most favorite small dog is the Shih Tzu, ninth most favorite dog in the United States. These dogs were originally bred to be lapdogs, so if you want a dog that is affectionate, will sit happily in your lap, and loves children, this is a good choice.

The Miniature Schnauzer is the tenth favorite dog. These dogs weigh about 14 pounds and love to be included in everything the family does. Like many terriers it is a great watchdog, but because of its size it has little protection ability.

The Miniature Schnauzer is also a good dog with children, like the Shih Tzu, and very affectionate, just like the next most popular breed, the Chihuahua.

Chihuahuas are the eleventh most popular dog breed in the United States, and make great companions. Most insist on being wherever you are, and will follow you throughout the house.

Chihuahuas tend to be intensely devoted to one person. There are some who will only love that one person and others who will love the entire family.

Pugs are the next most favorite small dog breed, appearing at number 13 on the AKC list. They are also great companions, and love to sit in your lap.

The Pug cannot tolerate heat or humidity. In fact, heat will kill them faster than it does other breeds because of their pushed in snout. So if you live in a hot climate keep that in mind.

Pomeranians and Boston Terriers are numbers 14 and 15. Pomeranians weigh only about five pounds and Boston Terriers weigh about 15 pounds, although some are larger.

Like many of the small breeds, these two also make excellent companions and lapdogs, and want to be with their family. Like the other small dogs, they should not live outdoors.

The Maltese is the tenth most favorite small breed. They rose to position 18 on the AKC's most popular dog breed list in 2006. And like the other small dogs, they also love to be your companion and sit in your lap.

So there they are, the ten most popular small dog breeds. After learning a little about them, they are basically lapdogs, companion dogs, and indoor dogs. These dogs are each precious and each can make a wonderful pet if you are willing to share your life with them and give them the love and attention they require.

Is Your Business Out Of Site? Employ The Ultimate Marketing Tool

2007-02-28T11:59:00.000-08:00

With the rapid expansion of the digital economy, the web site is conceivably the most powerful marketing and sales tool you can employ.

Yet, despite the highly competitive, global business climate, many businesses have yet to take advantage of this popular technology.

Consider these facts:

• There are more than 1,022,800,000 Internet users worldwide. The U.S. has the highest number of Internet users in the world with 205,300,000-plus 'surfers', equating to 68.6 per cent of the country's population. (Source: www.internetworldstats.com)

• By 2010, e-commerce in the U.S. is expected to account for $316 billion (U.S.) in sales, or 13 per cent of overall retail sales. (Source: www.forrester.com)

• Canada-based online sales exceeded $39.2 (CDN) million in 2005, and that number is expecting to grow. (Source: www.e-com.ic.gc.ca)

Moving beyond business cards and phonebooks

Some business owners rely almost exclusively on business cards and phonebook listings to introduce their companies to potential clients, and claim they would gain little or no benefit from a web site.

Indeed, business cards have played key roles in marketing and promoting businesses since the 19th century, and are without doubt one of the least expensive forms of advertising available.

Also, phonebooks have been helping consumers find companies for decades, and continue to have their place.

But with the growing number of people turning to the Internet to retrieve information and make purchases, you need to consider what a web site can do for you, your business and your customers.

Web site benefits

Web sites provide a cost-effective way to promote or announce up-to-date:

• Services

• Products

• Specs

• Prices

• Pictures

• Catalogues

• Awards

• Company news

• Contact information

• Employee bios

• Frequently asked questions

• Special deals

• Sales

• Membership opportunities

• Surveys

• Instruction videos

The list goes on. What better way to generate awareness, leads and sales locally, regionally or worldwide 24/7, 365 days a year? It's hard to find a better return on investment.

The image and credibility factor

Would you do business with someone who doesn't have business cards? These days, many individuals feel the same about companies that don't have web sites.

In fact, a ThomasNet study conducted in July 2006 revealed just how how critical web sites are for industrial sellers and buyers. Its findings: "71 per cent of buyers said they first look online when searching for a new supplier." The report concluded a web site can make the difference between "getting an RFQ or getting passed over."

A strategic, innovative and effective web site will:

• Give people a chance to get to know you at their own leisure

• Move potential customers along the ladder of engagement

• Help convert them into full-fledged customers

Investing in a professional web site can reap big results -- your company's success.

Make Money With Bulk Emailing Marketing in 4 Easy Steps

2007-02-27T05:53:00.000-08:00

The Internet serves many purposes and can one can provide finical gain to nearly anybody seeking ways to produce income. Bulk Emailing has risen to new levels of income for the right candidates.

To break into the Bulk Email marketing game you just need drive, ambition, and simple direction and you too can produce income for yourself. Simply by working hard and following step by step direction you can make decent cash flow by using your email.

First you need to seek a great email campaign. Those emails that are attention holders are the ones that will make you money. Obtain hundreds of email subjects that will pull attention from potential customers.
Secondly you will need a great from of an Email list Manager. This will manage email lists easy and quickly.

Thirdly you will need to find some form of email verifier, a program that will verify that the email addresses you extract are valid, nothing will make you madder than receiving undeliverable email messages. That is just a waste of your time! In addition you will need to purchase a list of email addresses. The more the better! There are many ways of accessing these email addresses.

Investing as little as $29.99 from some websites can offer you lists of up to 7 million, yes 7 million email address to get you started. This process is very simple and can provide you results quickly. It helps to have your game in place before you start this process. The results will be adequately impressive once you obtain all the information you need to begin.

One word of warning, whenever you initiate a bulk email campaign, make sure that you and all your vendors are observing and following CAN-SPAM laws in the US and similar laws world wide - the penalties can be severe - and you are responsible for knowing the law.

Enhancing Homes' Sex Appeal

2007-02-25T19:27:00.000-08:00

The marketing powerfulness of sexual activity entreaty is not a new concept. It is no happenstance that sexual activity insinuation and the omnipresent usage of the erotic and alien have been used for respective old age in commercialism and trade, from the so-called satirical pornography of Melvin Calvin Felix Klein advertisements to the musculus work force and women hawking Evian water, to the animal allurement used in graphical and advertisement designing in music, art, film, packaging, and publishing. Artistic flame up and technological invention are unquestionably the footing of the recent partnership of Dolce & Gabbana with Motorola for the marketing of one-thousand gold Motorola RAZR V3i phones, and the marketing itself is based on the dogmas and rules of Evolutionary Economics.

Evolutionary Economics theorize that change is based on repeat of engineering and routines. If in fact change happens constantly in the economy, then somes chemical mechanism is in enactment that replicates the Darwinian sequences of development that supply selection, generate fluctuation and set up self-replication – a procedure that is otherwise known as ‘progress’. The theory posits that markets enactment as the major choice vehicles. The assortment of competing firms is both in their merchandises and patterns that are matched against markets. Both merchandises and patterns are determined by modus operandis that firms use: standardised patterns of actions implemented constantly. By imitating these routines, firms propagate them and thus set up heritage of successful practices.

The nexus between sexual activity entreaty and marketing is established by one of the dogmas of Evolutionary Economics, in that consumers love knickknacks and, what’s more, can make novelties. Evolutionary Economics makes not see consumers as mere passive voice receivers of commodity and services but, rather, active manufacturers as well. The ground is that at the footing of production and ingestion there is human imaginativeness and desire for novelty. Furthermore, when people actually ‘own’ knickknacks in the word form of commodity they put about to convert others that the ownership of such as knickknacks shows that they have got got achieved a higher status, and that if others were adroit adequate to make what they did or to possess the same things that they have, then the others too could accomplish high status and enjoy all the good things that come up from it, including the best sexual activity (if a male) or the highest economical security (if a female) that they could possibly desire. As Aristotle Onassis once said "The lone point in being rich is to have got as much sexual activity as you desire with as many beautiful women as you want".

As irregular and eccentric as this peculiar business conception may sound, it have revealed itself to be deathly effectual in commercialism and trade. Taken as individual goods, high-fashion couture and cellular phone have got absolutely nil in common and, on the other hand, if Motorola itself were to put about merchandising gold cellular phones the marketing would likely be a ruinous flop. But by combining Motorola’s engineering with Dolce & Gabbana’s fashionable sexual activity entreaty and artistic alien innuendo, the lucifer is perfect. This conception is about to come in finance and existent estate as well. Think about it carefully: the home is the topographic point where the two genders meet, it is the perfect status symbol and the purchase and sale of a home is the quintessential freshness for the Seller (the producer) and the Buyer (the consumer). A question, therefore, originates as to how Peter Sellers can better the likelihood by enhancing home marketing through sexual activity appeal. The reply lies in making homes as much comfy (for the men) and reassuring (for the women) as possible.

Architectural styles of new buildings are changing already, with the ever increasing unit of ammunition looks of outsides evocative of feminine sensualness and the usage of glazed windows and obvious steel beams – male machismo at its best, while on the inside, comfortableness and reassurance are perhaps best signified by the increasing usage of home elevators. The bathroom is certainly one of the most frequently-used rooms in the house, and just a few elusive changes in colour can do the difference between a cold, barren environment and a warm, welcoming one. The same consequence of familiarity can be expanded throughout the home by picture a few rooms, hang no-sew window treatments an even by merely adding throw pillows here and there, or new bed linens. The adept blend of colors, forest and designing elements advances feminine harmony, heat and balance with char green, sand, white, red, black, dark brownish and all colours of nature at the top of the line and, if contemplating a hardwood floor, mahogany is the wood of pick since it enriches the environment rendition a sense of abundance, and slate flooring and polished concrete walls aid make a natural masculine feeling, especially if concerted and contrasted with the glacial expressions of unstained steel appliances.

It makes not take much in terms of money invested to make the nexus with sexual activity appeal, which is the stimulation to emotional engagement. And since existent estate merchandising is, ultimately, based entirely on emotions the Seller that tin happen the manner to utilize emotional leverage through familiarity by tapping and enhancing the beginning or beginnings of home sexual activity entreaty will profit immensely from one of the best marketing tools ever, the efficiency of which have been proven over and over by major marketing constitutions throughout the world.

Luigi Frascati

Business Marketing Online: Secrets of Internet Millionaire Webmasters

2007-02-25T10:18:00.000-08:00

One mistake that most website owners and businesses are currently making is that they depend on their traffic to come from search engines alone.

Some are even squandering hundreds of thousands of dollars monthly doing (Pay per click) PPC campaign.

This is fatal.

It is impossible for all websites to rank at #1 or among the top 10 all at once in any search engine.

So, once businesses realize this obvious fact, it should be common sense for them to know that the solution should be to diversify their marketing and promotion.

Stop depending on the uncertain search engine traffic otherwise you'll go bankrupt soon.

You need to do different kinds of marketing and promotions both online and offline.

Some of them are newspaper and magazine advertising, TV, cable and radio advertising, direct mailing promotion, text-link campaign, link exchange campaign, events sponsorship promotion, press release, article promotions.

When you do all these promotions, you get a lot of exposures, traffic from many sources and will not be forced anymore to depend on search engines traffic and rankings alone.

I have also noticed that most businesses are still using the old tactics of copywriting that worked during pre-internet era.

Perhaps that is why many of them have problems in making their websites profitable.

In these internet times, a website content has to be short, direct, interesting and must have a unique selling proposition to be effective and to convert visitors to buyers.

Many people just don't have the time to spend all day reading the content of one website when they are aware there are thousands and millions more they may have to read before they make up their minds to buy.

I see many website contents which are professionally written, organized and designed.

But all have one common mistake. They forget this fact that I am pointing out:

They are way too long, too desperate in their sales pitches, hype and most of them will not even allow you to read more than one word before their subscription pop-up forms come up and block the websites.

What a very rude and annoying way to welcome a prospect to your website.

In other words, they do so much to repel the customers, instead of doing so much to attract them.

May these insights into website promotion, work at home business income program, online income opportunity, website marketing, work from home business, affiliate programs, internet promotion help you improve your online marketing so as to achieve more success and happiness.

Please feel free to print or publish this article anywhere and read and also send it to your friends and well wishers and please preserve the author's resource box and website below.

Ikey Benney

Selling Investment Houses: Props & Profits

2007-02-23T19:26:00.000-08:00

New Marketing and Design Psychology ideas aid you stage homes for sale to actuate buyers and generate top dollar. Instead of leaving investing houses vacant, my hubby and I add a few props to increase our profits.

Visit nearby theoretical account homes and analyze the manner the inside interior designers furnished the homes. Notice how the interior designers under equipped the theoretical account homes by using just adequate accessories to do a brilliant presentation, but not too much to do the suite look crowded or small. Using a few props to get dressed up your house assists you sell for the upper limit net income in respective ways:

1. Props chosen with implicit in psychological benefit addendum the emotional reactions desired, including the perceived room temperature.

2. Props add position with ocular depth -- vacant suite look flat.

3. Props aid to maintain property in the head of buyers who see many houses.

4. Props are focal points for buyers to conceive of their ain furnishings in the home and get them thinking on life in the space.

Embellishments Peer Extra Dollars

Accessories which we utilize over and over to get dressed up different places for sale include: exuberant greenness plants, paintings, mirrors, lightweight unit of ammunition tabular arrays with keen cloth skirts, and antique side chairs. We have got an uncomfortable but great-looking antique sofa, upholstered in leopard print, which we travel from doll's house to doll's house for ocular appeal.

A hardy tabular array and chairs to subscribe contacts is invaluable to you. Don't allow motivated buyers get away because it is too hard to finalize the sale at the property. A simple card tabular array with a dramatic cloth skirt adds soft texture to suite with all hard come ups and few furnishings. This assists counter the black emotional impact of hard come ups and vacant spaces.

Borrow props from your home. This salvages money and clip spent shopping. Also, when you convey the point home again, it looks to demo up more than than and have got more importance.

Plan your inside works and flowers for your merchandising season. Pick up vases and containers at pace sales. Take advantage of what you have got growing either at your dollhouse, at home, or from friends. Freshly cut greenish tree subdivisions add ocular chilliness in warm weather condition condition and fall travel forths add ocular heat in cool weather.

Don't go overboard with props. You don't desire to overcrowd the space or even come up close to furnishing it. Buyers like to visualise their ain furnishings in your dollhouse.

Selling Your Property Without An Estate Agent

2007-02-22T19:42:00.000-08:00

It is possible to save £1,000s selling your home privately and cutting out the estate agent, but what are the issues that you need to consider?

Pricing the property

Price your property too low and you could short-change yourself from the true market value, price your property too high and you will simply put off potential buyers.

Before you put your property on the market, you need to do some market research. Are there any similar homes for sale in your neighbourhood? If so approximately how much are they going for? Look through the local papers and property sales websites to compare your home against others.

Once you have identified a market value for your home, you may want to consider pricing it slightly lower than those sold through agents, so that prospective buyers feel that they are getting a bargain.

Preparing the property for sale

Any estate agent worth their salt will help the seller to prepare their property for sale and point out places where improvements need to be made, helping the home to sell quicker and for more money.

Generally, vendors should be prepared to neutralise and de-personalise their homes prior to sale. This means clearing away clutter, plenty of white paint, a good spring clean and fixing all those little DIY jobs that never seem to get done.

Marketing your property

In the past, people who have opted to sell their homes without estate agents have used home-made 'For Sale' signs and local classified adverts. These can still be very effective and are definitely worth considering.

In addition to this, a number of websites have sprung up, specifically for private sellers to advertise their homes. A quick search on Google or Yahoo will help you find the most appropriate site for your needs.

Negotiating the deal

One of the core advantages of using an estate agent to sell your home is their ability to negotiate the best deal without any financial or emotional involvement.

Many people find negotiation an unpleasant experience and prefer to leave it to the experts. If you do decide to negotiate with the buyer, remember these core tips:

Set a minimum price at which you are prepared to sell your home.

Allow yourself room for manoeuvre - most people will try to negotiate, so make sure your asking price is higher than your minimum selling price.

If the buyer is making a serious offer, try to meet them at a half-way point, slow the pace down and only surrender small chunks of money at a time - by making the buyer work harder for a discount they will feel they have got a better deal.

Separate the real buyers from the time wasters, make sure they actually have the money to buy your property and are prepared to make a purchase - there is little point in negotiating with a general browser.

Ask lots of questions -- 'When would you like to move in?', 'Do you have finance arranged?', 'Have you sold your current house yet?' -- This will help separate buyers from browsers and you could even identify information about your buyer that will give you a negotiating edge

Close the deal

Once you have agreed on a price with the buyer, you need to ensure the deal does not fall apart. Agree on deadlines for the survey, conveyancing and date of the final exchange.

Until the exchange takes place, keep in touch with the buyer on a regular basis to ensure everything is progressing smoothly at their end and keep them updated on your progress. That way, there should not be any nasty surprises on the day of exchange.

Hedge your bets

The deal is never done until the money changes hands and even the best deals can fall through. Keeping your property on the market until exchange, will make it easier to bounce back if it all goes sour.

Marketing Information as a Business WHY NOT?

2007-02-21T15:59:00.000-08:00

Information is important to essentially any business. Something as important as marketing information costs money. So why not try making a business out of it?

Marketing Information Business Start Up

Investing in marketing information is very profitable especially since you have a lot of earning potential in exchange for a very minimal capital. You have virtually unlimited access to information. There are therefore minimal risks of losing your investment and a considerably high potential rate of return.

You need a good amount of specialization to be successful in this field. In particular, you have to know how to collect relevant information as well as how to validate your information sources. This is especially crucial in internet sources of information. Once you have the basic skills in data gathering, analysis and presentation, setting up this type of business should not be much of a problem for you.

It is very easy to start an marketing information service. Just publish a site on the web and post some teasers about the information you are selling. You will almost need no money as capital. All you,ll need is the information in your head. Instead of money, all you need to invest is a little time to do some research and gather information and you,re set to go.

Market Demand

There is a good demand for information but only a few provide it in its readily usable form. There are literally millions of resources on the internet which an ordinary person will not have the time to sort through and peruse. There are other offline sources as well, which would usually require much more time to procure.

Providing comprehensive information in easily digestible formats and with minimum required effort on the part of your consumers will be rewarded with the money that people who need the marketing information you sell to will be more than willing to pay. The amount of effort they will save is usually inducement enough to avail of the services of a marketing information service.

The Highlights

The simplicity in the business of marketing information is its main advantage. Once you have created a nice setup for your operation, everything will tend to go smoothly without much further supervision. Information basically flows in a generic cycle. The process always starts with information tagging or identification. This process lets you organize sets of information into certain categories and subcategories. Once you have learned this you are ready to identify the demand or the need for such information.

Another good point to the marketing information business is the fact that information is renewable. This means that you can profit from it constantly without any added effort on your part. Copyrights are the best example for this feature. Copyright owners earn and earn more money as long as the information they have produced remains in use.

Finally, in the field of information marketing, you can easily outsource everything from data identification and gathering to data analysis and application. Every aspect of this business can be done without you needing to lift a finger. All you have to do is to find the right people to do the job and you have your own marketing information goldmine.

Cause-Related Marketing vs. Strategic Philanthropy

2007-02-20T09:52:00.000-08:00

Six months ago, I had communication with a national corporation about their consideration to developing a corporate strategic philanthropy program. They didn't have one at all. I kept thinking, imagine the impact this corporation could have in communities where they have a presence! WOW! It would be phenomenal for them and communities. Let me say this corporation is big. Okay, they are huge.

Well, they were kind enough to let me know that they had just hired a public relations firm to create one for them. I thought to myself, "What a pr firm? No please no." But what to do next, just wait and see what they come up with. Just one month ago, I visited the corporations website. There it was, just as I thought was going to happen. They have a program, but it is a cause-related marketing program. I was crushed and let me tell you why.

Cause-related marketing programs are based on two things. One is a one-on-one partnership between a company and a charity. The other is it's product driven/sales promoted. The program works as long as there is no negative publicity about either the company or the charity and it works so as long as the product moves. In a nutshell, cause related marketing has a shelf-life. While folks contend that any giving is a good thing, these type of programs are not sustainable. The message is not necessarily one that stands over time nor does the giving.

On the other hand, strategic philanthropy programs are created by individuals or companies whose roots are based in philanthropy. Philanthropy is a field with its own set of principles, methods, professionals and message. Strategic philanthropy is not based on product or services and is not promoted by sales. At its core, it is based on the fundamental principle of being responsibly committed to changing lives and the world today and for future generations.

If your company is serious about making an impact and giving back, you've got to be serious about the type of giving program you have and how it works. It should be value-based and sustainable. Consumers are savvy folks, just like you and me. Don't think they are fooled by giving that is essentially marketing-driven. If you want marketing, hire a marketing strategist. If you want philanthropy, hire a philanthropy strategist.

Lesson 1 - Why Aren't You Wealthy?

2007-02-17T19:37:00.000-08:00

We will begin the Financial Fitness System with the premise that you are out of form financially or you would not have got decided to subscribe to the course. So, again, why aren't you wealthy? There are some exceptions, but for the bulk of the human race it's the same reason. You did not take to be wealthy, that's it, end of story. We told you this would be simple!

Now for those of you reaching for the mouse to cancel this lesson, halt a minute and believe about it, why aren't you a physician assuming that you are not a doctor, or for that matter why aren't you a sanitation worker, broker, baker, or candle holder shaper assuming those aren't your professions? It's because you chose to be something else. Sometimes this pick haps on a caprice or by default when we neglect to choose. Even if your chose not to make up one's mind what you will become, you still have got made a choice!

The simple truth is there are no secrets to becoming wealthy. There are however a set of specific stairway to becoming affluent that are sometimes so obvious they get overlooked. If you decided to read 10 lives of 10 of the wealthiest people you have got ever heard of, and outlined the stairway they took to go wealthy, you would soon discover the common denominators of their success. Wealth is available to everyone, regardless of education, background, age, race, or any other alibi you may have got heard in the past. Wealth plays no favorites, it only reacts to a specific set of actions.

What if it were that simple? Good news, it is!

So why aren't you and the bulk of the population wealthy? Remember wealthiness is available to everyone, and creating wealthiness is simple, however, creating wealthiness is not easy, or everyone would be getting wealthy.

Creating an absolute copiousness of income in your life is not some specially guarded secret expression that lone a choice few are clued in on. In fact the bookshelves are lined with true narratives written by affluent people who buzzword delay to state you how they did it! In this course, we have got drawn from the top heads and wise men among the wealthiest people in the world, to convey you a concise summary of the rudiments of becoming wealthy.

There are only 2 things that tin forestall you from becoming wealthy:

1 - You don't cognize how - (Yet!)
2 - You are unwilling to apply what you know.

In the adjacent 9 years we will take care of the "I don't cognize how" but only you can take care of ground #2.

Success go forths clues. Over the adjacent few days, the Financial Fitness System will simply point out the common denominators of creating wealth, then demo you how you can immediately apply that knowledge. Before we are through, you will have got the ability to move on this new knowledge and be well on your manner to creating financial copiousness in your life.

Here are the cardinal points to retrieve from today's lesson:

Wealth is a choice, not a chance.
There are no secrets to wealth.
Wealth follows rules.
The regulations are simple, but not easy.
You can learn the rules.
You can follow the rules, or take not to.
Recognize that it's your choice.
Your Adjacent Step!

What You Need to Make NOW

A dreaming without action is a fantasy... a dreaming with action goes a goal!

Today's lesson have got been brief, you now cognize you have the powerfulness to take to go financially fit. Before we plunge in to wealthiness strategies in the adjacent lesson, it's important to determine if you desire to make wealthiness and why.

Again we will presume you have got the desire to break yourself financially or you wouldn't be here. We will supply the knowledge but only you can supply the action. So with that in mind, in each day's lesson you will have got very short Action Steps to complete, and a day-to-day sound lesson to listen to as homework assignments. Today you will finish your first Action Step. Don't panic it's simple, but like edifice wealth, some of the replies may not be easy. You see how this works?

Today we get at the beginning, your present Financial Condition. Just wish stepping on the scale of measurement or staring into the mirror, it may be slightly unpleasant, or not what we would like, but it is, what it is!

The sooner you have got an accurate image of where you are financially the sooner you will be on your manner to becoming financially fit.

Take out a sheet of paper and pass some clip answering the inquiries in the Action Steps Area below. Put some existent idea into your answers. This exercising will assist get to make the determination you will need to complete the course. If you are one of few who are financially fit, you should happen your replies satisfying. However, if you are like the other 97% of the population, you may happen your replies somewhat disturbing. That's okay... a small uncomfortableness often combustibles bigger change.

Tomorrow we learn the "Commodity of Kings" the basics of wealth. Just like every good manager we are starting with the fundamentals, that's where we will get your wealthiness training. For today just complete the action stairway and remainder easy. Nine years from now, your full financial mentality will be much healthier!

Action Measure 1:

After you complete Lesson #1 sharpen your pencil and compose down the replies to the following Financial Fitness questions. Start a FFS diary for your day-to-day action stairway and notes. Designate a separate notebook for all your FFS content. You may desire to publish each lesson and include them in your FFS diary for future reference. On twenty-four hours 10 you can look back and see just how much you have got got got got got accomplished in just 10 days.

"The most of import inquiries are
those we are afraid to inquire ourselves."

Q: What is the sum amount of assets that you have accumulated so far in your life?

Include cash, savings, checking, money market accounts, the current value of any stock or common finances you may have and the dollar amount of the equity in your home.

Q: What is the sum amount of liabilities that you have accumulated so far in your life?

Include your mortgage balance, your credit card balances, student loans, personal loans from household or friends, automobile loans, overdraft protection, loans against insurance policies or any other money that you have borrowed but have not yet paid back.

Q: Subtract your sum liabilities from your sum assets, and compose down your "Net Worth." (this number can be, and sadly all too often is, a negative number)

Q: Assume you lost your occupation or primary beginning of income today, and you were not able to happen work of any kind, and had no friends or relations to depend on for aid or support of any kind. How long would it be before you go homeless?

Q: Assume that you earn income, salvage money, pass money, and borrow at the same rate you make today. At that rate how soon can you retire and keep the same lifestyle you have got today?

Q: Are you where you thought you would be at this point in your life financially?

Q: Why or why not?

Q: Where would you like to be financially?

Q: What are your currently doing to get there?

Q: Without change, how make you anticipate to accomplish your financial goals? (the lottery or inheritance, are not valid answers)

Q: If money were no object, where would you live, and why?

Q: If money were no object, how would you pass your clip each day?

Q: If things remain just the manner they are today, financially, is that good enough?

Lesson 2 - The Commodity Of Kings!

2007-02-15T19:39:00.000-08:00

What is "The Commodity of Kings"

"Power is simply "the ability to act." Since ancient times, power has been the commodity of kings. Power originally came to those who were strongest physically. Later, it came to those who had a special heritage through royalty. More recently, it came to those who had the greatest wealth or capital. Today, those who possess specialized and valuable knowledge have the greatest capacity for power." Anthony Robbins - from his book Unlimited Power

Specialized and valuable knowledge.

In lesson 1, we learned that there are only two things that can prevent you from becoming wealthy. You don't know how, or you are unwilling to apply what you know. Today we will dive into reason number one.

Simply put, chances are, you were never taught how to become wealthy. Think for just a moment, what is it that separates you from the Donald Trumps of the world or for that matter any mega-wealthy person?

Is it time? No! we all have the same 24 hours in each day. As you will learn, how you spend your 24 hours will make all the difference however.

Is it a privileged background? Not at all. Remember rags to riches require rags to begin with.

Ah Ha! It must be education! Absolutely not! At least not in the traditional sense. When we think of education most of us think about going to school, graduating, possibly attending college or graduate school so we can graduate and get a good "JOB". Traditional education teaches us to become a productive part of the workforce, but in no way teaches us the basics of wealth! You may remember going to algebra class, or studying a foreign language, or history, or economics.

How many times have you gone to Wealth Building 101, or advanced personal financial success? Never we suspect, and if you happen to have attended classes you feel were teaching wealth building, doesn't it make sense that your instructors should have been wealthy? Were they?

Did you know that Fred Smith, founder of Federal Express, received a "D" on his term paper. The one that outlines the worlds first overnight package delivery service! AKA Fed_Ex

Avis of AVIS car rental, McDonald of McDonald's hamburgers, Colonel Sanders of Kentucky Fried Chicken, Lear of Lear Jets, Henry Ford, and Abraham Lincoln all have one thing in common - They never graduated HIGH SCHOOL!

So much for traditional education!

The fact is, the specialized and valuable knowledge of wealth building is self taught. The good news is it's simple to understand and enjoyable to learn, and if you apply that knowledge, you will begin to create wealth.

Welcome to your first day of class, wealth building 101.

How did the majority of people who are wealthy get that way?

If you knew you had a 74% chance of wining would you buy a lottery ticket? Millions of people line up each week to purchase lottery tickets for their chance to become wealthy. However, according to the U.S. department of Health and Welfare, less than 1% of all wealth in America was created by lottery winners.

What if you could Beat The Odds!

74% of all wealth in America was made just one way; by starting and owning your own business. If you own your own business, the chances of you becoming wealthy are 284% grater than any other way wealth is created. This includes all other methods of becoming wealthy, from Pro sports figures, to astute investors, to lottery winners! It makes absolute sense that if you goal is to become wealthy, you must have your own business!

So we have now learned that the greatest opportunity to become wealthy is through owning your own business.

The second set of specialized and valuable knowledge is an entirely new way to look at your personal finances.

Robert Kiyosaki in his blockbuster #1 best-selling book developed a completely new and simplified way to understand your personal spending and earning patterns, and how they lead you closer to or farther away from becoming wealthy. To explain these cash flow concepts in more detail.

The following information is gathered from his book Rich Dad Poor Dad - What the rich teach their kids about money that the poor and middle class do not! and Robert's website: http://www.richdad.com

Financial Statements

Rich Dad said, "The riskiest investor of all is a person who is out of control of his or her personal financial statement. These are people who have nothing but liabilities that they think are assets and as much in expenses as they have in income and whose only source of income is their labor."

Understanding your Financial Statement is the foundation for taking control of your personal finances. Rich Dad believes the relationship between the Income Statement and the Balance Sheet was everything. What is the first step to financial freedom? Take control of your Financial Statement.

Cash Flow Pattern of the Poor (or a young person still living at home): The poor spend every penny they make and they have no assets or liabilities, only expenses. The cash flow is limited to income and expenses and the cash flow pattern of the poor reflects income from a job that is used to pay expenses like rent, food, clothes, transportation and taxes.

Cash Flow Pattern of the Middle Class: Individuals in the middle class accumulated more debt as they become more successful. A pay raise qualifies them to borrow more money from the bank so they can buy personal items like bigger cars, vacation homes, boats and motor homes.

Their wage income comes in and is spent on current expenses and then on paying off this personal debt. As their income increases, so does their personal debt. This is what we call the Rat Race.

Cash Flow Pattern of the Rich: The rich have their assets work for them. They have gained control over their expenses and focus on acquiring or building assets. Their businesses pay most of their expenses and they have few, if any, personal liabilities.

An individual's cash flow pattern may show a combination of these three types. Which pattern does your financial statement reflect? What story does your financial statement tell? Are you in control of your expenses?

As you can see, the poor, middle class and rich, have dramatically different cash flow patterns. The poor and middle class work for income and either spend their money on necessities or servicing and ever increasing debt load; while the rich have their money or assets work for them, and re-invest their income into additional income producing vehicles.

Part of becoming financially fit it to get the ball rolling. You may be asking yourself, "How can I invest the income I make into income producing assets when I spend most or all of my income already on necessities and debts?"

In tomorrow's lesson we will show you how to immediately put additional cash in your pocket, this month, without changing your job, asking for a raise, or taking profit from any business you choose to start! In fact tomorrow we will show you how it's possible to fund your first income producing asset with cash left over to help with the monthly budget!

That's all for today's Lesson.

Here are the key points to remember from today's lesson:

Where building wealth is concerned, a formal education is not necessary, and does little to prepare you to become wealthy.
74% of all wealth in America was made just one way; by starting and owning your own business.

Your greatest opportunity to become wealthy is through owning your own business.

The poor, Middle Class, and the Rich, have dramatically different cash flow patterns and spending habits.

Real Estate Web Design - 3 Items You Must Include on Your Site

2007-02-14T19:34:00.000-08:00

Real estate web designing necessitates you to do things a small spot differently because you are selling either your services or existent homes, so there must be respective things present on the web page to make it user friendly. Unfortunately, many existent estate web land sites are poorly designed, inquire visitants to supply dozens of personal information before being able to see any information, don’t provide adequate information not to advert photos, and are all around a hurting for many visitors. However, it is of import to cognize how to do your website user friendly because approximately 73% of people trying to purchase a home usage the Internet to assist them.

Item #1 - No Frames

Make certain your website is designed well and makes not include the usage of frames. You desire each page to be its ain nexus and accessible through a URL. If you utilize frameworks then search engines will have got a hard clip returning your page as a result, users will not be able to bookmarker it, and on the whole frameworks just cause irritation and problems to everyone. Get quit of the frameworks and usage a website that allows people to travel consecutive to the existent estate listing they are interested in without having to travel to all the other information. It will be good to you in the long run.

Item #2 - Detailed Area Information

You must include elaborate country information on your existent estate website. More than likely you are an expert in one peculiar country and as a consequence should relay this information to the people visiting your page. The ground why people are visiting your page is because they are looking for homes in that peculiar area, and since you are an expert you should supply all the information a prospective homebuyer might need, not just the spectacles of the home. Potential homebuyers desire to cognize about local shopping, dining, schools, activities, restaurants, interstates, distance to the beach, mountains, or other holiday information. The more than than elaborate the information you provide, the happier your visitant will be and the more likely they will purchase from you.

Item #3 - List Photos

Listing photographs are a must. If person is online looking for a home, the least you can supply them with is a listing photo. And not just one, but many photographs that show the outside from a assortment of angles, particular architecture or design, the outside milieu such as as gardens and trees, inside rooms, kitchen, bathrooms, and more. Basically everything you can imagine. The easier you do it for the prospective homebuyer, the more than than likely they will reach you for more information. If you don’t have got one already, simply purchase a quality digital photographic camera and then adding listing photographs to your land site will be piece of cake.

Real Estate Website Marketing - 5 Steps to Crushing Your Competition and Doubling Your Business

2007-02-13T19:32:00.000-08:00

Getting your existent estate website more traffic is easy if you cognize how Internet marketing works, not to advert search engine optimization. Your end is to get as much traffic as possible to your website, but not just any traffic, targeted traffic. Targeted traffic is the traffic that mightiness actually have got some interest in your merchandise or service, in this lawsuit existent estate, and be more than likely to purchase than untargeted traffic you might pick up. Fortunately, there are five easy stairway to assist you oppress the competition and dual your business.

Step #1 - Links

Links to your existent estate website on the Internet are very of import marketing tools because not only make they increase your rankings with the search engines, they also expose you to more than potentiality traffic. Because of this you must make everything you can make get your land site linked to from many different complementing websites. The more than than than golf course you have, the more traffic you'll receive, and the more sales you'll make.

Step #2 - Keywords

Knowing the keywords that apply to your political campaign and using them effectively is very of import for drive targeted traffic to your real property web pages. When you utilize keywords efficiently and person searches for those precise keywords, your page will be displayed as a result. Search engines give penchant to keywords so you should cognize what you are doing when you begin putting keywords in your content.

Step #3 - Directories

Find all of the existent estate directories that entreaty to your services and your market and submit your website to them. People searching existent estate directories will come up across your land site listing and visit you. This is a great manner to increase traffic.

Step #4 - Wage Per Chink Advertising

Pay per chink advertisement is an low-cost manner to market your existent estate land site based on keywords and paid advertisements. You only pay for the PPC advertizement when person chinks on it and visits your website. Many search engines offer wage per chink advertisement and you simply command on the keywords you desire advertisement for. If you are the high bidder you get the first slot, and so on and so forth.

Step #5 - Articles

Place articles on your website about specific subjects pertaining to the current existent estate market in your area, nationwide, or current interest rates. New and enlightening information will maintain visitants coming back.

If you follow these five tips you will see higher traffic on your website not to advert increased interest in your merchandises and services. You will recognize that these marketing tips are easy to utilize and following them will set your existent estate website above all the rest. Don’t hold any longer or lose anymore possible clients. Start to work on your Internet marketing political campaign immediately and start enjoying the fruits of your labor!

Real Estate Investors: How to Get a Powerful Marketing Education for Free

2007-02-11T19:45:00.000-08:00

I am a sum geek.

A few hebdomads ago, late at night, I wasn’t inch the temper to travel to bed yet so I turned on the TV. What I tuned into may surprise you. What I am about to uncover volition authorise you.

You may presume that I flipped to the Late Late Show, but that is not the case. Most deliberately I turned to the insomniac’s staple, paid programming. Yes, I intentionally watch infomercials.

I happen there is much to be learned from studying the marketing and sales methods used in this media. Most infomercials are produced by very successful marketers. FYI…the Guthy-Renker shows are some of the best as proved by their staying power.

I could enter an infomercial and alkali a whole seminar around studying it. From the “and that’s not all” offer to the “call inch the adjacent 10 minutes” close, there are strategies that tin
and should be easily adapted to your ain marketing. The merchandise may be different, but the consumer psychological science is the same.

Now, I am not about to suggest staying up late to watch infomercials (although it wouldn't be clip wasted). However, there is something similar that you should be doing. You may be letting a invaluable instruction base on balls right beneath your olfactory organ that you could be enjoying for free.

Here it is....

...junk mail!

I know, debris mail can be a pain. But believe about it. Those companies pass a batch of clip and money to prove and happen out what works in direct mail. You might as well net income from their hard work.

Instead of automatically dumping it in the garbage, take a few proceedings to look through it. What sort of newspaper headlines make they use? Bash they utilize any originative packaging? What is the
formatting? Did something catch your attention?

One of the most powerful strategies for being a successful marketer is to borrow and accommodate ideas. It doesn't matter what industry it is from. In fact, often ideas from other
industries will supply the biggest breakthroughs.

If you have got bought any courses of study from existent estate gurus, then you probably get a batch of mail from them. These cats are masters. Wage attention to what they do.

If you have got got a good resonance with a seller, inquire them what other mail they might have gotten from investors. This plant especially well with Sellers in foreclosure. They often get
hills of mail. If they will garner it for you and manus it over, that could be a hoarded wealth trove.

What make you make with all of this? Start what is called a swipe file. Every master marketer have one. Keep the best pieces. Get a clump of data data file booklets and come up up with a system that
plant well for you to form it for quick reference.

When you desire to make a new marketing piece, a few proceedings perusing your swipe file will get the juices flowing and make it much easier.

So... don't go through up the instruction that bases on balls through your letter box everyday.

Selling Your Home - Alone or with a Broker?

2007-02-09T19:45:00.000-08:00

How make you make up one's mind whether to sell your home (or land, farm, ranch, etc.) on your ain or usage a existent estate broker? There are pluses and minuses to each approach. Let’s expression at some of the cardinal ups and downs. Only you can make up one's mind which attack have the most pluses in your situation.

Why travel FSBO?

“FSBO” stand ups for “for sale by owner” and states buyers you are not using a real estate broker to stand for you. The biggest top to going FSBO is you salvage thousands of dollars in broker committees when you sell the property. This may look obvious, but the nest egg are very real.

The downside to going FSBO is it takes your clip to market and show the property. (You’ll need to set up your property for sale in either case, but that’s A whole separate topic.) You also need to be familiar with how the existent estate sales procedure plant in your portion of the country. It isn’t necessary to be an expert; just do certain you understand what things 1 must generally deal with in a existent estate sales transaction.

Also, it’s of import to have got access to the assistants you need. Examples include a lender who is willing to measure up your prospective buyers, individual qualified and willing to pull the sales contract and a person or firm qualified to fold your sales transaction. Fortunately, there are many lenders and settlement offices willing to work directly with the principals to a transaction. And, for the courageous and hopefully, very experienced, there are on-line, fill up in the blank, sales contracts.

Why usage a broker?

Does the above treatment leave of absence you feeling insecure instead of alert, thoughtful, and excited? If so, you probably desire a existent estate broker to sell your home for you.

Other cases when you may desire to utilize a broker include:

1. Inexperience - If you have got not had much experience purchasing and merchandising homes, a broker may be the answer.

2. Local Conditions – Are you aware of the alone issues of the geographic location? If you have got bought and sold in Virginia (where termites and Rn are concerns) and you are now planning to sell the 1 home you’ve owned in Centennial State (where H2O and mineral rights might be on the treatment table), it’s possible you may desire a broker.

3. Time, Time, Time - If your community supplies for you and your household very well, but takes up tremendous amounts of your time, ditto.

4. If you have got no notions about how you’d travel about marketing your home using the Internet, magazines, newspapers, bulletin boards, brochures, signs, word-of-mouth, etc., A broker can get you the marketing exposure you need.

The Right Choice?

There is no 1 right choice. Only you can make up one's mind what’s best for you. Hopefully, this expression at the professionals and cons will get your mental juices flowing nicely. I trust your sale travels smoothly.

Real Estate Internet Marketing Is The Way To Go

2007-02-08T19:17:00.000-08:00

Real estate Internet marketing is a booming business, along with all other forms of Internet businesses. Now, it seems that very little can’t be sold over the Internet. An estimated 20 million people shop online for things as diverse as airline tickets to vacation homes. Research firms estimate that online shopping exceeded $200 billion in 2003. They predict that the number of online shoppers could double in the coming years. With such huge numbers, it only makes sense to consider real estate Internet marketing.

Real estate Internet marketing makes perfect sense to the savvy real estate agent. A web site can promote not only the properties that you currently have, but also the services that you render. With a site of your own, you can not only sell your properties to local clients, often times, people considering a move from another state can view your offerings on online and have a good knowledge of the market before they step foot into it.

Real estate Internet marketing can open doors for you to make money off associated services as well. On your website, you can seek affiliate programs with any number of businesses that serve the real estate industry. By providing links to other sites, you can receive extra money that you normally wouldn’t without a website. Some of the affiliate programs you may wish to check out are with banks, title companies, and home evaluation services.

There are a number of companies that can help you will your real estate Internet marketing. Some real estate agencies offer their agents web pages on their larger websites. This would give you the opportunity to be on the Internet without significant investment. There you can post your credentials, recent sales, and awards you may have won in sales contests. Every good real estate agent now must realize the importance of real estate Internet marketing.

Invest Nothing - Get Nothing!

2007-02-06T19:23:00.000-08:00

People inquire me all the clip why I compose articles. They inquire me
oppugns like:

What do you such as an expert? Where make you learn this Internet stuff? How long have got you been doing this "Internet thing"? How much money have got you made and then they desire to see my bank account figures?

I compose articles based on a simple philosophy. I take what works and usage it to leave some saneness into the brainsick hyped up human race of Internet marketing. I also apply what I have got learned to the running play of an my Home based business.

The Internet can be a very impersonal. Sometimes it seems
almost barren in its approach. Everywhere people are trying
to sell something. Buy this - purchase that - purchase mine don't buy
the other cats because it sucks, etc.

When you don't purchase then they get insulted. If the bulk of these so-called Internet land sites were existent human race brick and howitzer supplies they would be forced to fold their businesses within the first few weeks, or months.

Why?

For one of following two reasons:

1) The law would close them down for making such as wild, and false, advertisement claims. (Note: That is exactly what the FTC is starting to make to many websites!)

2) The shop proprietors would tally off the bulk of their
possible clients with their carnival, take the money and run, style of hawking their inferior commodity or the same commodity you will happen on 100s of other sites.

Occassionally Iodine get an electronic mail from one of my readers asking me for advice on one of the many "categories" of Internet marketing. The underside line of every inquiry I get is how to be "SUCCESSFUL" in working from home and marketing on the Internet.

The thing that intriques me most is that these people who
compose to me never desire to pass any money or put any of
their clip to be successful. All they desire is some magical
expression that volition give them instant "riches". They are hardly ever willing to pass one thin dime or put any of their clip at all.

People don't look to believe they need to educate themselves
about every aspect of online marketing. All they desire is for person to manus them the replies on a Ag platter. No work or investing in clip or money to learn how to market - another words they aren't willing to make anything.

The kicker is that people are actually convinced that you can make NOTHING to go rich except throw up an awkward website. Then within a few hebdomads they'll do a luck and retire to Tahiti!

I would wish to share with you the typical electronic mail that I get where a reader is asking for help. I'll get a petition for some information on the fast ones to being a success with an online business.

The first thing I usually make is to inquire the individual some questions. The inquiries I inquire are always the same. They are:

- Exactly what are you promoting?
- Is it an Affiliate program(s) or is it your ain program, book, etc. and if its an Affilaite programme are you promoting more than than one?
- How long have got you been trying Internet marketing?
- What is your website url?
- What is your Alexa land site ranking?
- Who is your webhost provider?
- How are you advertisement (Traffic exchanges, classified
ads, FFA sites, ezine ads, PPC)?
- What tools make you utilize to learn from (special membership
sites, ebooks, ezines you read on a regular basis, on-line
study courses, information sites, etc.)?
- How many hours a twenty-four hours are you devoting to your marketing
efforts?
- Why did you get into Internet Marketing in the first
place?
- Exactly what are your specific 1 month, 3 month, 1 twelvemonth ends and 5 twelvemonth goals. What would you like to get out of your efforts?
- Is this a hobby, a passionateness or a pure net income motive?

Rarely is anyone able, or willing, to reply more than than two or three of these questions. If you've read my past articles you cognize how strongly I believe in setting aside some clip every twenty-four hours to learn and turn your knowledge and your accomplishment sets.

I usually answer back with some of the things the individual needs to make to turn their business. Then more than likely than not I get some crisp answer of why I'm not giving them some secret formula. Or a personal attack on me because I take NOT to boast about how much money I may have got made in my ain Internet marketing efforts.

My reply to that is a simple one. I would rather leave
this human race with many friends and co-workers that know, and
trust me, than to set an few thousand in the bank by being a
dishonest beat and bilking people of their hard earned money.

On all of my websites you will happen my full contact information - including my existent computer address and telephone number. If you look at a 1,000 land sites you'll be lucky to happen this same information on more than than a couple of twelve other websites. Why?

People believe they can throw up a website with a sales page, sell you something, cod the money and run. No bother, no
real number guarantee, no duty - nothing. If that is what you believe then you too are in the class of:

Invest Nothing - Get Nothing

I often get the feeling that those who compose me don't want
to listen Oregon learn - they just desire some charming quick fix! Being a successful netprenuer is not a given...You MUST EARN your success.

As I said in an earlier article "What is more than of import -
Time or Money" it WILL take some of each. You can pass more than money and take a small less clip - Oregon visa-versa. However, your best consequences will be if you pass the clip AND some money!

When I started my ain Internet marketing I put a budget of how much money, and time, I was going to utilize for all of my marketing efforts. It was a very small budget, and it still is, but it was what I knew I could afford. I have got got got actually spent most of my marketing budget learning the ends and outs of Internet marketing and very small on existent paid advertising.

You have heard me state this before I ALWAYS have been and will go on to always be a student. I am taking a small amount of my earnings each calendar month and adding to my training, knowledge and promotional efforts.

One of the most of import things I have got learned is that NOT ONE of the six figure earners ever got where they are by taking shortcuts. They have got all invested tons of clip and/or money into their efforts, albeit some more than than others. The point is this:
NO Attempt = NO Results
BUT
MASSIVE Attempt = MASSIVE Results!

If all you desire is a free ride, the lazy manner out, money for nil and boots for free - then all you'll get is NOTHING! You only get back what you set into your business.

Invest Nothing = Get Nothing!

Real Estate And Marketing; Part 1

2007-02-05T19:22:00.000-08:00

There are two aspects of real estate and marketing
that are paramount to your success as a real estate
professional; the acquisition of new customers and the
retention of old ones.

As is the case in other industries the cost of
acquiring new customers is escalating. So, it becomes
more prudent to continue marketing to past customers.
It’s less expensive and can be equally profitable.

However, many real estate agents, to their financial
detriment, often fail to maintain relationships with
clients they have “closed” deals on.

Take you for example. If you’re like the majority of
agents you probably spend a lot of time, money and
effort acquiring new customers; and heaven knows it's
anything but easy. But how effective are you at
retaining past ones?

You probably feel, real or imagined, pressure to make
the next "close", but in doing so you are leaving a
lot of money on the table. Actually, it’s more like
you’re putting money into a competitor’s pocket.

Marketing to past clients can be especially rewarding.

You probably shared a genuine care for each other,
and if they were satisfied with you and your services
in the past, there is a greater chance than not that
they will come back to you for future transactions.
Also, they are likely to refer friends, family and
colleagues in the interim.

Savvy real estate and marketing pros immediately shift
their strategy to building long term relationships
once they "close" buyers." You should, too! Rather
than simply abandoning a client after a sale continue
nurturing the relationship, but in a different way.

Savvy real estate and marketing pros also, maintain
continuous, routine and ongoing contact and relations
with past clients. This helps to you protect your
customers/business from competitive encroachments.

For example; put them on an every other month "post
sale marketing campaign", whether it's via post cards,
letters or flyers.

Something is better than nothing, and it doesn't have
to cost a lot of time or money. The alternative is to
do nothing and let a competitive agent convert them to
their client! If you snooze you'll lose!

An old friend once said. "Sometimes it's better to
keep what you got than to replace it with something
new." Avoid the pain of seeing a recent past client
transact a real estate deal with another agent. Don't
let them get away - you spent too much time and energy
converting them into a customer.

An Open Letter From a Home Owner To Real Estate Agents Who Make Cold Calls

2007-02-02T19:22:00.000-08:00

Even if I didn't read the intelligence I'd cognize exactly when the existent estate market in my country is hot.

Why? The number of phone phone calls from agents looking for me to sell my condominium to their clients additions drastically. Usually I admit, my responses are curt, especially since these phone phone calls are usually unwelcome interruptions.

So many of those calls are unpleasant that I am taking the chance to state you about the 1 different phone call that I received. This phone call not only resulted in my allowing the agent to see with me, I now see her my agent and program to go on doing business with her and referring her to my friends.

Three Steps To Obtaining a Home Owner's Interest When You Cold Call

1. Be friendly and allow it come up out in your voice. The lone ground why I initially paid attention to the company was that she really sounded pleasant. That was it - she sounded like the type of individual I couldn't be ill-mannered to even if I wanted to be. Frankly she sounded like she expected a friendly interaction - and that's just what happened.

2. Don't be intrusive. Brand an attack like, "I'm a existent estate agent and wondered whether I could talk with you a minute about whether you have got short-term plans for placing your home on the market." Also, wage attention to background noise. If you hear a baby, or cutter clicking - take a hint! Don't seek to do conversation - I'm probably busy.

3. Introduce yourself more than fully once the intent of your phone call have got been established and you have permission to continue. While maintaining your pleasant demeanour, be businesslike and demonstrate that you cognize what you are doing. For illustration my agent was able to quickly turn out her acquaintance with condominiums similar to mine in the area. Her assurance made me desire to keep contact with her for possible hereafter transactions even though I was not ready to put my home on the market.

I'm sure if you follow these steps, it'll do the home proprietors you name on much less cranky, and generate more than than good will and more new business for you.

Real Estate Marketing Online - An Agent's Guide to Success

2007-02-01T05:49:00.000-08:00

Each year, more and more consumers go online to look for homes and search for real estate agents. Smart real estate marketers know this, so they venture online themselves, with a personal marketing website.

But simply having a website is not enough. You must have an effective website -- one that moves the visitor toward that all-important goal of contacting you.

The First (and Only) Law of Web Marketing:
Seems everyone these days has an unsupported opinion about what does or doesn't work in web marketing. But the only thing these people can say for certain is what has or hasn’t worked for them.

A tactic that fails miserably on one website could succeed wildly on another site. There is testing, and then there’s conjecture ... the key is to know the difference.

You never know if something will work until you try it.

Marketing to the Info Savvy
To understand real estate marketing online, you first have to understand how consumers have evolved over recent years. Consumers have become increasingly skilled at using the Internet as a research tool. The glut of information we face on a daily basis has led to a nation of "info savvy" individuals.

In short, the problem of information overload has yielded the solution of information savvy. As a result, new skill sets have emerged.

Skills of the "Info Savvy" Web User:

Able to quickly judge the value of a website
Able to recognize and assess the information "hot spots" of a website
Able to skim and scan web pages with brutal efficiency
Able to read selectively while ignoring suspected advertising spots

Don't Underestimate Your Readers
Read enough articles on web writing and you’ll hear the phrase "short attention span" used to describe web readers. Nothing could be further from the truth. A short attention span implies some kind of mental deficiency, a handicap of sorts.

On the contrary, the average web reader is anything but handicapped. They don’t suffer from short attention spans -- they enjoy heightened powers of selectiveness.

They don’t scan pages because they’re averse to reading -- they scan pages because they know there’s a lot of bad websites out there, and they’ve developed the tools to screen them with great efficiency.

So if you want your website to engage the reader, and ideally evoke a response, you must first get the reader to stop. You must use words, images or a combination of the two to tell the reader, "Hey, you’ve found something worth your while. Slow down for a minute!"

If your website fails in this regard, it fails entirely.

On a personal marketing website, the obvious goal is to motivate or persuade the reader. To channel them toward the desired goal. And speaking of "channels," it's about time for an acronym.

SECTO: Stop ... Engage ... Channel ... Tell ... Offer.

Keep SECTO in mind when building (or having built) your personal marketing website, especially on those pages where you’re trying to evoke a response.

SECTO:

Stop the reader (perhaps with your headline, imagery, or a combination of the two).
Engage the reader with relevant content that delivers on the headline’s promise.
Channel the reader toward the specific action you want them to take.
Tell the reader how to take that action.
Offer the reader an incentive or reward for taking that action.

Statistics show that 77 percent of buyers use the Internet at some point during their home search. With numbers like that, your mission is clear -- you must have a website to stay competitive.

The question is, what have you done to make your website more effective than the websites of all your competitors?

Effective Real Estate Marketing Strategies

2007-01-10T19:46:00.000-08:00

Congratulations! It's official. You're finally a accredited existent estate agent. So, what make you make now?

Newly accredited existent estate agents all over the country human face the same dilemma; life after existent estate agent licensing exams.

Truth is there are more than existent estate agents than you can agitate a stick at, but only a few fully encompass the chance to separate themselves from the others.

Simply being licensed is no longer adequate and there are no guaranteed cutoffs to success. Still, there are scores of companies guaranteeing success if you purchase their products.

Well, salvage your money because there are no guarantees; only hard, focused work coupled with merchandises that'll heighten your success, which gets and ends with 2 simple things;

1. getting prospects, and

2. converting them to paying customers

Getting Prospects

Getting prospects is easier said than done and only when you have got got some you will you have an chance to intermix your knowledge, appeal and personality to fold them.

But the cardinal remains getting them. How make you make that?

Having a existent estate listing system is 1 good manner and should be every newly licensed existent estate agent's top priority; veteran soldier agents, too if they never had one.

Although you can happen existent estate listing systems a dime a twelve there is nil that assists you accomplish the degree of existent estate marketing and sales "success" you desire quite like a proved one, whether they're complicated 1s at outrageous prices, or simple 1s at sensible cost.

Generally, the more than than complicated and cumbrous the systems are the more expensive they are. They aren't necessarily better because, just costlier.

The type of system you chose tin be as simple as mailing pre- written existent estate marketing letters to proprietors of expired listings, some of which are extremely effective.

Prices range from under $9 - 10 to over $4,000.00; respective can be establish for less than $50.00.

But as you turn in experience and ability incorporating phone call in 800 number lead generating systems and websites are almost a must if you desire be competitory and guarantee your success.

Let's human face it - existent estate agents need lists and the more than than they have got the more money they're likely to do through their existent estate marketing efforts. On the other manus agents who can't get lists don't last in the community too long.

Real estate listing systems aid agents get listings. They can assist new agents get off to good starts and recharge the careers of veteran soldier agents who have got been around for awhile.

Also, with a good system, expired listings, fsbo's and whatever it might be, newly licensed existent estate agents can derive important marketing exposure in months, rather than years.

Signs with your name on them dotted throughout your community will give you instant credibleness and generate more than listings. Everybody wishes doing business with successful existent estate agents, which you'll be thought of as when you have got got tons of listings.

Another nice thing about agriculture expired lists is that the Sellers are typically Realtor friendly, eager to sell their places and willing make what it takes to get them sold.

So, if you don' have one, get one. And don't worry if you can't afford the most expensive one. Just get the 1 the looks best suited to you that you can afford now. You can always upgrade and add to it as clip travels by.

Good fortune and happy listings!