PETS

I Don't Envy Pets Their Fleas And Tics

2007-07-26T01:52:00.001-07:00

I often envy the life of pets. After all, they don’t have to work to get fed, cleaned and loved. How many of us can say the same? Every day we pet owners get up and walk our dogs, clean the kitty litter and feed and hydrate our pets. It seems that we do all the work and they get to lie around the house doing nothing.

I have come to realize that pets have their problems too. One of the problems that is common to cats and dogs is flea and tic infestation. Those pesky animals cause lots of heartache to our pets. All we need to do is watch a dog who is trying to nibble at their fleas and tics. Not fun at all.

Why do animals such as cats and dogs get fleas and tics? What makes them particularly attractive to those bugs? Fleas are attracted to animals for different reasons ranging from poor health, to diet, to cleanliness. Once pets do get fleas, it causes them extreme discomfort.

There are many commercial flea and tic products on the market, but as with all products, it is better if one can find natural alternatives to commercial ones. One product that works very well is Fleas Away Natural Flea Powder. It is made of diatomaceous earth which is fossilized earth made of algae.

Often times fleas and tics can leave pets raw. Pet Alive Flea Derm helps the raw skin to heal as well as decrease sensitivity to flea and tic allergies. It works as a soothing balm.

There is no reason to stand by and watch a pet suffer from fleas and tics. Why stand helpless when there are lots of natural cures on the market?

Moving House is Stressful For Your Pets Too

2007-07-26T01:51:00.001-07:00

They say that selling and moving house can be the most stressful experience many of us ever go through, with the exception of losing a member of the family. That is probably true, but it is also a very stressful time for our pets as well.

Moving can be very traumatic for cats and dogs. When the big day arrives, owners can either place their pets in a kennel or a cattery for a day or two, or they could take their pets with them, but if they do that, some kind of forward planning is essential. And when there are so many other things on the mover’s mind, it is so easy to overlook or forget the pet.

Prepare the pets for the move by allocating them a secure room where they can be surrounded by their favourite toys and have their basket close by. On the big day your pet may be frightened. The sight of teams of burly guys removing all your possessions from the house is enough to upset anyone.

When you do arrive at the new location it is a good idea to place the pet in a secure room, again surrounded by their favourite things, and well away from tramping feet. If possible, cats should be kept inside for a week or more afterwards, as they gradually become accustomed to their new surroundings.

Dogs being walked on a lead will soon get to know the neighbourhood and learn how to find their way home, should they inadvertently escape. When you do feel confident enough to let the cat out, the best time to do so is just before mealtime, when they are hungry. That way they should not stray too far. Leave the door open too, so they can quickly get back inside if they become startled or frightened by strange sights and sounds.

When the cat has been outside for a short period, call them back in again. After that you can start letting them out for longer periods, and never force them to go outside at all if they clearly don’t want to.

Moving house can be a monumental upheaval for everyone, and that certainly includes your pets, so do take some time out to consider their welfare too.

Immortalize Your Pets With Irish Tattoo Designs

2007-07-26T01:50:00.001-07:00

When it comes to tattoos, one of the world’s most requested designs are Irish tattoo designs. There is no arguing about it. With its interesting history and the imagery of Ireland reflected on all Irish tattoo designs and the meanings that comes with every pattern, it is not a wonder why people of non-Irish descent, are so enamored with it, oftentimes infusing it with a meaning of their own. I know you would, too.

Over the years Celtic and Irish tattoo designs have merged and had came to be known as one and the same, except for a handful of designs that are truly Irish such as harps, the shamrock, and the claddagh symbol. Celtic patterns and knot work have long been considered to be Irish and these knot works and plaits helped make Irish tattoo designs gain worldwide recognition among tattoo lovers and body art enthusiasts.

However, Irish tattoo designs are also getting more popular among the regular folks: people wanting to have a tattoo, not to show off or to be more popular or to belong to a group, but to have a part of a loved one etched on their skin as a tribute. It could be for a person, or for a pet that is considered by the owner to be part of the family. For example, you have a pet dog and you want to keep him with you forever but you know you it is impossible, you actually can opt to have an image of your pet tattooed on you, done with an Irish twist with all its intricacies. In a way, he is with you whatever happens, wherever you go.

What’s fascinating about these Irish tattoo designs is you can infuse into it a design of your own without disrupting the exotic Irish appeal of the original pattern. If you want a tattoo of your pet dog done in Celtic knots, you can do so and with an excellent tattoo artist, the outcome would be quite fascinating. The image of the animal would not be easily recognizable among the knots and patterns, but if you look a little closer, you will first make out the outline and the more you look, the more you will see the image of your pet artfully embedded into the design, into your own skin, permanently. Not only did you get a tattoo of your pet, you got it in a mind-blowing design, too.

Some people just love their pets so much that they are willing to immortalize them in the form of a tattoo. For some, it is okay to have their pets boldly tattooed on their body but it is not always appealing that way. One of the best ways is to do it with an Irish or Celtic flavor to add more mystery to it. It is more fascinating and more interesting when it is not too obvious and, more often than not, it is a lot more meaningful that way. And that is what a tattoo should be.

Pets & All Kindsa Things to Love

2007-07-26T01:49:00.001-07:00

And so it is with other species. Most common, the usual house pet, a cat or dog. Denise cuddles her toy poodle and Layla, her precious pup, returns her love lavishing licks on her hand and cheek. Each satisfying the other with affection. Becca has taught her calico cat tricks which amaze all as cats are not known to be so obedient, having “a mind of their own”, but in all probability, the calico cat is demonstrating its love in return for the love and care received.

And then there is Granma who recently received the gift of two baby ducklings. “Oh my God”, was the response as the covers were removed revealing the tiny babes. Astonished with an immediate reaction as to what to do with them although the gift was appreciated. But once the fuzzy precious ducklings were held the bond was formed. Granma to ducklings and ducklings to Granma.

These are some of the mysteries of the pet world; of the human world. Strange bonds are formed between the least likeliest of combinations between human and animal. Snakes are adored, monkeys are coddled, even pigs today are house pets.

Most importantly, it has been widely known that animals of whatever species, are proving to be very therapeutic, not only for the average child, man or woman, or a family, but also for the infirmed, for the elderly, for the handicapped and homebound.

It used to be that an animal was kept for a purpose; i.e., to catch mice; to guard against intruders. That is not so today. The pet industry has grown to such proportions that each and every aspect of it has enlarged.

The choice or selection of an animal best suited to you is, of course, yours. Choose wisely and once done …

10 Tips to Keep Your Pets Safe & Healthy During Summer

2007-07-25T00:55:00.000-07:00

Summertime is great fun both for you and your pet. But it can also bring along some dangers for your four-legged friend that you might not be aware of. Here are ten tips that take no more than simple care, to keep your pets healthy and safe during summer:

1. Take your pet for walks in cooler hours in the morning or late evening. The hot afternoon sun makes pavements hot which can burn your pet's feet.

2. While you might enjoy swimming and wish to take your pet along with you, beware that deep pools can cause problems for your pet. It might not be able to get out of water or swallow poisonous chemicals while inside.

3. Take strict measures to prevent fleas. Use a bed of cedar shavings or get a powder from the vet that will help get rid off fleas.

4. If taking your pet along for a road trip, feed it with cool water several times a day and keep it in a cool part of the car which is away from direct sun.

5. Use car harnesses when traveling with your pet in a car. This will help protect your pet from sudden halts.

6. When taking your pet to the beach, keep it off the hot sand which might burn it's feet. An umbrella will provide good shade and regular drinking of cool water will help it stay cool throughout the visit.

7. If your pet spends most of the time outdoors, make sure it has a lot of shade to play and rest under and ensure ample supply of drinking water.

8. Never leave your pet in a parked car during summer. Cars get hot quickly and pets can die of heat stroke.

9. Keep your pet from playing on the lawn. Lawn grass with weed killers and pesticides can provide harmful for pets. Pets can even get poisoned by licking themselves after walking on pesticide treated grass. If you notice vomiting or diarrhea, visit the vet immediately.

10. Regular health checks at home and trips to the vet when necessary, like before planning a summer vacation, will ensure that your pet stays healthy throughout summer. At home, check for lumps under the fur and for any strange changes in eating or drinking habits. Call the vet if something seems suspicious and abide by the vet's advice.

Pet Tooth Problems

2007-07-24T02:47:00.000-07:00

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Before You Get A Pet

2007-07-22T08:40:00.001-07:00

Pets are adorable. Whether its a new puppy or kitten or any other type of pet that suits your fancy the most desirable period of time is usually when you are about to acquire or have just acquired your new pet. This honeymoon period may last for days to weeks to a lifetime.

The problems of pet ownership may not show up immediately but there is always potential for issues to crop up. First of all, pet maintenance requires commitment. Commitment requires time. Time is a precious commodity. We are all trying to do more in less time. With a pet this is not an option.

Before buying that pet -- that you just have to have -- I would suggest that you do a number of things. First of all do a self assessment. Are you going to take that dog for a walk religiously, even when it's 30 below? Can you afford the food and the veterinarian fees? If damage is caused by the pet are you in a position to handle it?

I think it is worthwhile understanding that many animals will not spend their entire lives with the family that chose them. I've seen many people -- many with good intentions -- enjoy their pet for a period of time but eventually give up on the animal and then the animal pays the price.

People must count on a cat living ten to fifteen years, dogs possibly a little longer. And some exotic pets much, much longer. And even though everything might be fine now, the future is not always predictable. Thus, this is a major commitment may become a major burden.

And if you take away nothing else from this article please remember that a Siberian Husky is a poor lap dog and your future girlfriend may not like snakes nearly as much as you do.

House Poodle Training Can Be A Snap

2007-07-22T07:39:00.000-07:00

Don't let the idea of house poodle training delay you in starting one of the most important behaviors in you and your dogs life. Once you get started, it's actually a lot of fun once you make progress in the potty training department. House breaking will allow you and your pet the ability to enjoy time together in your home without the constant worry of damage caused by an unreliable canine. The key to remember is that a poodle is a companion first and being with you is important to their well being.

WHAT IS HOUSETRAINING?
House training is NOT crate training. House training is teaching the specific behavior of going outside to use the bathroom to your pet. Crate training is the most successful METHOD of teaching this behavior.

Crate Training is simply a method of keeping control of your pet inside your home when you cannot be watching them. It is NOT storage of your poodle nor is it being cruel to your pet. So for good a house breaking experience, here are a few poodle house training suggestions that you will find important.

TIP #1
No matter how frustrating your poodle may seem, remember they AREN'T out to get you. Even the smartest (and standard poodles are very smart) dogs simply do not have the reasoning skills to sit and think up ways to "get even" with you. So you should never hit, yell, scold or otherwise discipline your dog in a negative way.

TIP#2
It's consistency that counts. Your consistency will go a long way toward associating going outside to urinate and your happiness. Your dog wants to please you so the more you can do to help her associate pleasing you with certain behaviors, the easier those behaviors are to learn and remember.

Another idea is to be aware of your puppy's schedule. If they like to wake up and play, try to be available to play with them at that time. Working an active pup up in this way can stimulate their appetite and thirst. After they visit the water or food dish, take them outside to allow them to use the bathroom. Stay with them. This will give you the chance to give them loads of praise when they do go.

TIP#3
Use single word commands. Don't use potty one time, then bathroom the next then something else the next. Use consistency in your commands so your poodle knows what you're talking about.

TIP#4
A crate is NOT simply a cage for storing your pet. Crate Training is however about confinement and control. Your poodle has no right to live in your home especially if they're not potty trained. Your puppy should not be free to roam and have accidents in your home but should remain in their crate unless you're keeping a close watch on them. This means not only during the day but also at night.

For those necessary night time house poodle training rituals, you really need to consider a lightweight and extremely portable doggie crate, only available from the links below. Want to keep your pet in the same room but lugging those hard plastic or wire cages around to hard? Get a lightweight portable doggie crate and maintain house breaking control while having your best friend close.

The answer to all this work is the new, lightweight doggie crate available only on the site below. It's the answer for those of us who are serious about successfully potty training our dogs so they will be a good member of the family for years to come. House poodle training takes involvement with your pet as much as possible. Not having to continuously move that cumbersome metal cage or bulky plastic crate throughout your home will make potty training a lot easier.

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House Poodle Training Can Be A Snap

2007-07-21T06:25:00.001-07:00

TIP#3
Use single word commands. Don't use potty one time, then bathroom the next then something else the next. Use consistency in your commands so your poodle knows what you're talking about.

Dogs and Chocolate

2007-07-21T06:24:00.000-07:00

Dogs and chocolate. I’ve been told since I was a little kid that if my dog ate chocolate, it would kill him. Is it really true? Or is it along the same lines as, “If you eat a watermelon seed, you’ll grow a watermelon in your stomach.” I’ve done some research on dog’s eating chocolate, and here’s what I’ve found out in layman’s terms.

Apparently, chocolate has something in it called theobromine. Theobromine is toxic to dogs. So yes, ingredients in chocolate can be harmful to dogs. But before you go rushing off to the veterinarian because Fido ate a Hershey’s Kiss, here’s what you should know…

It takes a fairly large amount of theobromine to be toxic to your dog. Of course, the amount will vary based on the type of chocolate, the size of your dog, and your dog’s sensitivity to theobromine.

On average,
Milk chocolate contains 44 mg of theobromine per oz.
Semisweet chocolate contains 150 mg/oz.
Baker’s chocolate contains 390 mg/oz.

Generally speaking, it takes approximately 100mg to 150mg of theobromine per kg of dog weight to impact your dog negatively.

Using a dose of 100 mg/kg as the toxic dose it comes out roughly as:
Milk Chocolate can be toxic if your dog eats 1 ounce per 1 pound of body weight.
Semisweet chocolate can be toxic if your dog 1 ounce per 3 pounds of body weight.
Bakers chocolate can be toxic if your dog eats 1 ounce per 9 pounds of body weight.

Based on that, 3 oz. of Bakers chocolate can be harmful to a 25 lb. dog, while 3 oz of of milk chocolate could just give him diarrhea.

So here’s the bottom line… if you suspect your dog has eaten chocolate at a high enough level to be toxic, take him to the vet immediately.

If your dog is showing any signs of hyper excitability, hyper irritability, increased heart rate, restlessness, increased urination, muscle tremors, vomiting, or diarrhea, take him to the vet immediately.

If you don’t know how much chocolate your dog ate, take him to the vet immediately.

If your dog has eaten an M&M or a Hershey’s Kiss, you probably don’t have anything to worry about (unless you have a REALLY small dog).

And from now on, keep your chocolate out of your dog’s reach!