Pet Shambhala

The History Of The Yorkshire Terrier - Where Do Yorkies Come From?

2011-06-15T14:49:00.000-05:00

By Kathleen Chester

A question many online dog breeders are asked is regarding the history of the Yorkie, short for Yorkshire Terrier. Many individuals want to know where a breed of dog comes from before purchasing one. They want to amass as much knowledge as possible about the breed in an effort to understand it better when it comes to the breed of dog's temperament, personality, and ability to train.

As the name of the Yorkie points out, the city known as Yorkshire, United Kingdom, as well as locations further north in the English countryside, is where the history of the Yorkie begins. Yorkies are said to have first been bred during the middle years of the nineteenth century. Yorkies were kept in mainly industrial areas and where trained to catch and kill rats in industrial buildings. During the nineteenth century, rats were a large problem throughout England and Yorkies provided a quick and beneficial solution to this daunting problem as they were excellent rat catchers. Because of their original purpose, which was primarily to hunt and to kill, many breeders say that this is the reason for the somewhat aggressive nature of Yorkies. Even though they are not primarily trained for hunting purposes, those genes still exist within them to be a bit aggressive at times.

Many believe, due to the large number of terrier breeds, that Yorkies are the result of consistent cross breeding between terriers and either other terriers or another type of dogs. In nineteenth century England, it would be normal to see Yorkies roaming freely along the streets because of their ability to capture and kill rats. It is highly possible that numerous breeds of other dogs we currently see were a direct effect of breeding in England to find the best possible dog to handle the rat infestation.

One thing many Yorkie owners are not aware of is that Yorkies, when first bred, were a lot larger then than they are today. When breeders began selectively breeding Yorkies, the outcome was a much smaller dog, known today by many as a "toy dog." Many do not believe the stories of Yorkies being rat catches because of their small size. However, the truth is, the first of the breed used to be at least two times the size that we know Yorkies to be today. Back in the nineteenth century, they were definitely not "toy dogs."

Records today cite that Yorkies were first recognized as pets in 1870. However, they were not officially registered until 1874 with the British Kennel Club. In the United States, they were registered in 1885 with the American Kennel Club. Americans embraced Yorkies due to the love at the time for the Victorian era, in which Yorkies were seen as a well-known pet. In the 1940s, the popularity of them went down, however, soon after World War II, interest in the breed was renewed. Since then, Yorkshire Terriers have been recognized worldwide as a very popular breed of small dog for owners everywhere.

Find yorkies for sale raised by some of the most reputed and ethical yorkie breeders at Puppy Match 4 You. For more information, visit Puppymatch4you.com.

The Yorkshire Terrier Handbook, by Caroline Coile. The author tells new and prospective owners, as well as experienced owners of Yorkies virtually everything they need to know about purchase, care, nutrition, behavior, training, and breeding of this delightful canine. She discusses selecting a healthy dog, coping with breed-specific concerns, specialized grooming, small-dog nutrition and training, competitions, health care, first aid, and much more. Barron's Pet Handbooks are extra-large versions of the well-known Pet Owner's Manual series, with more detailed information, more photos, and more advice... More

Secrets To Dog Training
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Complete Bichon Frise Dog Book
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The Military's Combat Canines

2011-06-03T17:24:00.000-05:00

By Glenn Bossik

They arrive in the stealth of night on Black Hawk helicopters. They have the guns they need. They even have a dog named Cairo. They're Navy SEAL Team Six, and they're in Pakistan to capture or kill Osama bin Laden. That's what the Daily Mail, a British newspaper, reported when describing the killing of bin Laden by U.S. special forces teams.

According to the Daily Mail, the purpose of the SEAL team's dog was to track anyone who might try to escape from bin Laden's housing compound. The Atlantic Wire said in a recent article that there was a debate about whether the dog was a German shepherd or a Belgian Malinois.

Regardless of which dog was used in the raid, the U.S. military must regularly select, train, and equip dogs for combat zones. The Department of Defense (DoD) oversees this process and has tasked the Air Force's 341st Training Squadron with implementation.

Selection

This squadron resides at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas. The soldiers there are in charge of selecting dogs for the DoD's military working dog program. There are several breeds listed by the Air Force for military use: the German shepherd, Belgian Malinois, and Dutch shepherd.

An article in a recent issue of Airman Magazine focuses on the breeding of Belgian Malinois for the dog breeding program at Lackland. In the article, Pre K9, Sarah Dietrich, a foster parent for a Belgian Malinois puppy from the program, says: "These dogs are the smart children, and they want to explore every corner of everything."

Smart dogs are the driving force behind the military working dog program. They have the intelligence to find enemy soldiers and hidden bombs. These dogs can be trained.

Training

The 341st Training Squadron says on its Web site that it establishes a relationship between dogs and handlers, teaches the dogs obedience, and shows the dogs how to attack, as well as how to search various locations.

Advance training combines all these learned behaviors. "During this phase a dog is taught to find a suspect or hostile person in a building or open area; to attack, without command, someone who is attacking its handler; to cease an attack upon command at any point after an attack command has been given, and other tasks," says the 341st Training Squadron on its Web site.

These are the skills taught to dogs just like Cairo, the canine soldier from the raid on Osama bin Laden's compound. Dogs are used for a lot more than special forces missions, though. They're often used in longer-term conflicts. They played a big role in World War II. The Army Quartermaster Foundation's Web site says that 10,425 dogs were trained for the war.

They're still in widespread use by the military today. In the article, The Dogs of War: Beloved Comrades in Afghanistan, The New York Times says that Marines in Afghanistan are using Labrador retrievers to find homemade bombs.

Gear

Of course, military working dogs sometimes need their own combat gear. Last year, the U.S. Navy SEALS announced on their blog that they would buy canine tactical vests from K9 Storm, a Canadian company. The SEALS' vest of choice is called the Intruder. It's lightweight, waterproof, and equipped with a night-vision camera. K9 Storm's vests also use Kevlar. So, dogs can withstand a knifing from an enemy combatant.

But combat gear isn't the only thing that canine troops need. They must stay cool in hot war zones like Iraq and Afghanistan. That's why Starline Nunley started the Cooling Vest Project. Her Web site says that the project supplies military working dogs with ChillyDog RPCM Vests. These vests contain rechargeable cool packs.

With the right gear, the U.S. military's dogs can tackle almost any challenge. They can keep our troops safe from roadside bombs, storm terrorist compounds, and warm the hearts of the soldiers who care for them. Long live military working dogs!

Sources:
Daily Mail Reporter, "Stealth Helicopters, 23 SEALs and a Dog Named Cairo: For the First Time, Details of Bin Laden Raid Reveal How Close Mission Came to Failure," Mail Online
Alex Eichler, "Breeders Battle for Right to Claim Hero Navy SEAL Dog," The Atlantic Wire
341st Training Squadron, "341st TRS (Military Working Dogs)," Lackland Air Force Base
Randy Roughton, "Pre K9," Airman Magazine Online
Army Quartermaster Foundation, "Quartermaster War Dog Program," Qmfound.com
Elisabeth Bumiller, "The Dogs of War: Beloved Comrades in Afghanistan," The New York Times
U.S. Navy SEALS, "SEAL Dogs Get the Best Gear Too," Blog.usnavyseals.com
K9 Storm Incorporated, "The K9 Storm Intruder,"K9storm.com
Starline Nunley, "Cooling Vest Project," SupportMilitaryWorkingDogs.org
Glacier Tek, Inc., "ChillyDog RPCM® Cool Vest," CoolVest.com

Glenn Bossik works as a Web content writer for Florida Puppies for Sale.net, a network of trusted, experienced breeders devoted to raising quality puppies and finding happy, loving homes for them.

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From Baghdad to America: Life after War for a Marine and His Rescued Dog, by Jay Kopelman. Here, for the first time, Kopelman holds nothing back as he responds to the question, “Why did you save a dog instead of a person?” The answer reveals much about his inner demons—and about the bigger picture of Operation Iraqi Freedom. He talks about what it’s like to return to the States and examines the shocking statistics to come out of Iraq: Depression, suicide, alcohol abuse, and broken relationships are at record highs for the men and women who serve there. Kopelman credits Lava with helping him to endure combat and the pain of war, as well as helping him deal with the surprising difficulties of returning to everyday life. Civilians have a hard time understanding what being a Marine means, and the adjustment to living among them is hard for these soldiers. This book attempts to shed light on that for all readers...More

Saving Cinnamon: The Amazing True Story of a Missing Military Puppy and the Desperate Mission to Bring Her Home, by Christine Sullivan. Set against the backdrop of the war in Afghanistan, Saving Cinnamon chronicles the love story of Navy Reservist Mark Feffer and a stray puppy he bonded with while stationed outside of Kandahar. When Mark is about to return stateside, he decides to adopt Cinnamon and sets up her transport back to the U.S. But the unthinkable happens and Cinnamon is abandoned by the dog handler who was supposed to bring her home, and disappears with out a trace. Mark and his family start a desperate search for the puppy which lasts 44 days and ends dramatically when Mark and Cinnamon are finally reunited. This is a touching memoir told by Mark’s sister, who initiated the rescue efforts...More

War Dogs: A History of Loyalty and Heroism, by Michael G. Lemish. War Dogs provides an eye-opening look at unsung canine heroes from World War I to the present. Terriers, shepherds, beagles, collies, huskies, and Dobermans are only a few of the breeds that have pulled sleds, searched caves and bunkers, and even parachuted into combat. Michael Lemish has collected true stories and rare photographs that reflect the strong bonds that have formed between war dogs and their masters as they worked together in dangerous situations. Anyone who has ever loved a dog will love this salute to these four-legged heroes. Michael G. Lemish is the official historian for the Vietnam Dog Handlers Association. He lives in Westborough, Massachusetts...More

Facts About Your Pet Rabbits

2011-06-01T14:13:00.000-05:00

If you have a pet bunny, or more than one, you already know that rabbits are cute, soft and love to be petted. You know rabbits are sweet. You know they are great pets for the right family. But there may be a few things you didn’t know about your bunny friends.

Rabbits are crepuscular. That means they’re most active at dawn and dusk. Since rabbits are “officially” lagomorphs (lagomorph is the order, and both hares and rabbits belong to the leporidae family), you can have fun with your friends. Instead of saying you have pet bunnies, try saying your pets are crepuscular lagomorphs. That should get some looks!

You may be surprised that your domestic rabbits don’t hibernate, but in fact, rabbits do not hibernate at all, either in the wild or when domesticated. So don’t worry that your bunny’s not hibernating; she’s not supposed to. There’s a common belief that rabbits hibernate, so this is an interesting fact not everyone will know.

As you may know, rabbits are great jumpers (hippity hop). Bunnies can hop three feet in the air, and sometimes higher, if they’re really strong in the back legs. So if you don’t want your bunny getting into or out of something, make sure you have sufficient protection against a three-foot jump!

Rabbits can do some things humans do. For instance, rabbits snore. Not all rabbits, but some rabbits do snore, just like people, cats and dogs. But rabbits cannot vomit. They can gag, but can’t regurgitate food, so be careful to make sure your bunny doesn’t eat anything she shouldn’t. If she does, call your vet or the poison control line to find out what to do.

You probably see wild rabbits around your yard or in your neighborhood occasionally. Wherever you live, unless you happen to live in Antarctica, where rabbits aren’t native, you can find rabbits. They’re not native to Australia, either, but a large population of wild rabbits has developed from ancestors brought from other countries. Wild rabbits live in burrows, and a group of them (or domesticated bunnies, for that matter) is called a herd. And yes, wild rabbits do breed…wel, like bunnies, but if their babies are abandoned, only about 10% survive, which is why they’ve evolved to have so many offspring.

How To Raise Rabbits
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In the Chinese zodiac there is a year of the rabbit
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is replaced by the year of the cat.
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Small-Animal Play Pen Mat/Cover
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2-Story Super Pet Rabbit Hutch

5 Essential Iguana Care Tips

2011-05-31T14:04:00.000-05:00

By Timothy Duggan

Iguanas are magnificent reptiles and owning them means knowing them. Knowing about them will make caring for them so much easier. I highly recommend doing your own research as unfortunately some pet stores will tell you what you want to hear in order to make "the sale".

Here are 5 quick and easy iguana care tips:

1. I highly recommend starting your iguana out in a 20 gallon aquarium (or its equal). Before bringing him/her home, make sure the enclosure is ready for housing. Make sure your iguana enclosure has UVA and UVB lighting, heat lamp (I don't recommend "heat rocks" as reptiles in general tend to stay on them and can burn), hide box (babies will hide) and a water container large enough for your iguana to completely submerge in (they love water).

2. After bringing your iguana home, place it in it's already prepared enclosure and let it settle in for a day or so. It's imperative to allow your new addition to acclimate to its new surrounding. Once acclimated (after a day or two), start holding your iguana for a few minutes two or three times a day. This will help "tame" your iguana making him/her more secure and trusting.

3. Being a tropical to sub-tropical species of reptile, high humidity inside the enclosure will be essential (80% or higher), as is proper temperature. Temperature during the day will need to be around 88 - 93 degrees (f). At night, lower the temperature to 75 - 78 degrees (f). Use a UVB "black light" to accomplish this and place it on the opposite side of the "day" lamp.

4. Don't be alarmed if your iguana shy's away from food for the first couple of days. This is quite common until acclimated to its new surroundings. It's still vital to put their food inside their enclosure. Start them out with finely cut romaine lettuce and red cabbage (they love romaine lettuce) for a few days. This will "break them in" and prompt them to feed.

Iguanas can and will become "lettuce junkies" which can lead to malnutrition which causes Fibrous Osteodystrophy (metabolic bone disease) so its important to feed them a variety of different vegetables, fruits and flowers and in the percentages given below:

*80% vegetables (clover, romaine lettuce, squash, green beans, peas, mustard greens, collard greens, kale and turnip greens).
*10% fruits (melons, bananas, grapes, strawberries, apples and pears).
*10% flowers (hibiscus, roses, carnations and even dandelions). One flower to avoid is the azalea. Although beautiful, the azalea is poisonous (toxic) to iguanas, so avoid this flower.

In its simplest form: 80% vegetables + 10% fruits + 10% flowers = 100% nutrition!

5. Keeping your iguana enclosure clean is very important! If their enclosure is dirty, your iguana can become susceptible to parasites. Parasites can and eventually will cause sickness or worse kill your iguana (s). If you see fecal matter, rotting food, or clouding in their water, clean the enclosure immediately.

In conclusion, Mimicking nature is the surest way of keeping your iguana healthy and happy.
As time goes by, you won't believe that your once little lizard is now as long as you. Once your iguana matures, you'll feel as if he/she is part of the family!

The final step is to find a good exotic veterinarian for your iguana. It's nice to know that if something should ever go wrong, you have an exotic veterinarian who knows your iguana and what it takes to keep them happy and healthy.

For more useful guidelines and resources (including a FREE mini-course) on iguana care, visit my website at iguanidaesecrets.com.

Article source: EzineArticles

Iguana Handbook, by R. D. Bartlett and Patricia Bartlett. Titles in Barron's popular series of Pet Handbooks are filled with reliable information and helpful advice on animal care. Written by breeders, veterinarians, and other pet experts, these photo-illustrated books instruct on housing, feeding, healthcare, and where applicable, grooming. Titles devoted to dog breeds also discuss exercise needs and training methods. Barron's Pet Handbooks resemble Barron's alternate series, the Pet Owners' Manuals, but each of the Handbooks has a larger page count and includes more detailed advice and instruction. This guide book is a must-have before you even think of getting an iguana as a pet. More

Green Iguana: The Ultimate Owner's Manual, by James W. Hatfield. This comprehensive yet highly readable book is just what its name says: the ULTIMATE book on green iguanas. In 650+ pages of clear, lively, compelling and accurate text, the author presents the most current, scientific and useful information available about iguanas. The most comprehensive, scientifically accurate, up-to-date, helpful, fun, easy-to-read iguana pet care book ever written. And with the book's clear, accessible layout, you can quickly find whatever information you need. More

Zoo Med Natural Iguana Food, Adult Formula

Iguanas are unusual in that their eardrums
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Chihuahuas as Family Dogs

2011-05-30T16:10:00.001-05:00

By Yuliss

Chihuahuas thrive on human attention, and are great lap dogs. These dogs can be stubborn at times, but develop their own personality. They are very intelligent dogs and are easily motivated by treats, toys, and affection. Many Chihuahua owners find training their dogs easy.

Chihuahuas tend to be loyal towards one owner. These dogs can also become very protective of that owner, and very territorial. Chihuahuas have been known to be aggressive when on the defensive and are perhaps not suitable for a family with young children. The Chihuahua is a very fragile dog because of it's small size. Young children may accidentally harm the dog by stepping on him or her, unintentionally dropping the dog, or accidently hitting the dog with toys or furniture.

Many Chihuahua owners say the dog has big personality but is unaware of it's small size. Therefore, the Chihuahua is not afraid to defend him or herself when the dog feels threatened. Whether the dog is feeling threatened by a child or another animal.

This dog breed has a reputation for being a "picky eater" the owner will have to make sure the Chihuahua gets the nutrition it needs. The Chihuahua is at risk of becoming obese if fed table scraps and human food, which will decrease the dog's overall health and lifespan. But these dogs do crave attention, affection and exercise. They love being petted and are eager to please.

They can bark a lot, but will learn to be quite with firm, consistent training. When they socialize with other dogs they are known to prefer the companionship of other Chihuahuas over other dogs. However, it is not recommended to have other pets in the house before getting a Chihuahua, as bigger dogs may harm the Chihuahua accidentally or in attempts to claim dominance, over the small fragile dog. Sight-hound breeds and terriers breeds are especially incompatible with Chihuahuas.

The Chihuahuas small size put the dog at risk of predators and birds of prey. Keep your dog safe by also being close by when outdoors and keeping a close eye on the dog at all times. Using a leash with your chihuahua will also help deter predators from taking an interest in the small dog.

The Chihuahua often "trembles" when it is stressed, excited or cold. This is a psychological and biological behavior that can serve to increase the bond between the dog and owner. These dogs also like to snuggle and dig in their bedding to "get cozy" and this can lead to more playful behavior.

Chihuahua Breed History

The origin of the Chihuahua is not certain; there are three ideas of how this tiny dog came to be.

Some say the Chihuahua was used in sacred rituals by the Pre-Columbian Indian Nations, as they were seen as holy beings.

Another idea is the dogs originated in Malta, an island in the Mediterranean where they travelled on the trading ships to Europe. Supporters of this theory believe that there are famous paintings of small dogs in the Sistine Chapel from 1492 which resemble the size and appearance of the Chihuahua.

The third idea is that the Chihuahua was brought to Mexico from China over 200 years ago. In support of this theory Chihuahuas would have descended from Techichi, a companion breed of dog favored by the Toltec civilization in Mexico. The Aztecs learned about the dog when they conquered the Toltecs.

The Aztecs believed the dog beheld mystical powers. At this time, the Chihuahua was still bigger than we are familiar with today. Over the years, the breed has been bred to be even smaller, to the size we commonly see today. Chihuahua popularity spread among Texas, Arizona and New Mexico where the breed was adopted into the United States. The Chihuahua was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1904 and has remained constantly popular.

Chihuahuas Health Promotion

Chihuahuas are very susceptible to certain health issues such as

Epilepsy -a seizure disorder. Not curable, but treated with monitoring and medication. A close relationship with your veterinarian will promote the dog's best health.

Hydrocephalus - A congenital disorder of fluid around the brain, these dogs are born with a soft spot on the skull known as morela fills, that sometimes does not close properly as they grow. Unfortunately, this condition leads to a poor prognosis. However, a certified breeder or shelter staff will be able to discuss with you the assessment process for this condition and provide you will reassurance of your dog's health. Please ask about it, so you don't have to worry.

Hypoglycemia - Low blood sugar levels because of their small size. Modified through a specialized diet, and perhaps, more frequent feedings.

Eye tearing/ infections - are common in this breed because of their big round eyes and small eyelashes that do not offer much protection. Treated by using eye cleaner regularly and maybe a temporary course of antibiotics.

Heart Murmurs-Irregularity in the way the heart pumps the blood effectively. Treatable with medication and possible surgery depending in the dog's age, health and size (or grade) of the murmur at diagnosis. Your veterinarian can advise the best treatment for your individual situation.

Luxating Patella -Or "sliding knee cap". Can be painful for the dog, but is treatable with surgery and temporary, post-operative pain management.

All breeds are susceptible to specific disorders. Each breed can be affected to varying degrees. The idea of listing the common illnesses for each breed is not to discourage you from wanting a specific breed if you find it a perfect fit for your family; but to help you better prepare for the future health of your dog. As well as provide you with the knowledge necessary to get a dog in the best optimum health.

I encourage owners to develop a strong relationship with a consistent veterinarian who the owner and dog both can bond with. Adequate medical care is a financial expense, but a necessity for being a responsible dog owner.

Yuliss is an emergency nurse working in an inner city hospital (for people). She has worked with the SPCA to help sheltered dogs become adoptable to families. She is familiar with breeds such as the Cocker Spaniel and the Weimaraner. For more information & "fun facts" about dogs, please visit my site: best-family-dogs.com.

Chihuahuas, by Caroline Coile. This dog's ancestors date back to Mexico and Central America before the arrival of Europeans. This book describes both smooth coat and long coat Chihuahuas. Titles in Barron's extensive selection of Complete Pet Owner's Manuals are filled with useful information and heavily illustrated with high-quality photos and anatomically accurate line drawings. These fact-filled books instruct owners on how to care for dogs, cats, birds, fish, caged pets, reptiles, and virtually every other animal that people are likely to keep as a pet. Books in this series are written by breeders, trainers, veterinarians, and other pet-care specialists. They advise on purchasing, feeding, health care, training, grooming, and all other aspects of responsible pet ownership...More

Lost Souls: Found! Inspiring Stories About Chihuahuas, by Kyla Duffy and Lowery Mumford. a heartwarming, thought-provoking compilation of over 50 true stories that address the cruelty of animal neglect and abuse and the joy rescued dogs bring to their new homes. This book is a must-read for Chihuahua lovers and people who are considering adopting dogs. A Significant portion of proceeds from every sale is donated to Chihuahua rescue groups...More

The Ultimate Downloadable Chihuahua Care Handbook
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Home Remedies For Hyperthyroidism in Cats

2011-05-29T11:08:00.001-05:00

By Monika Ruthe

Hyperthyroidism is a disorder characterised by the overproduction of thyroid hormone and a subsequent increase in the metabolic rate. It is a fairly common disease in older cats and relatively easy to treat.

Conventional treatment includes either medication or surgery. Most often a daily dose of synthetic thyroid hormones is prescribed. Another approach is to surgically remove the thyroid. Both treatments are effective, but can be invasive or difficult to regulate. Natural remedies for hyperthyroidism in cats offer a gentler alternative to conventional medications without being addictive. Herbs are safe and effective to use, improve the functioning of the thyroid and address the major symptoms.

Natural remedies include native herbs that have been shown to be beneficial for treating hyperthyroidism in cats such as stinging and dwarf nettle, bugleweed and kelp as well as foreign ones like the Chinese herbs huang qi or Siberian ginseng. Herbal remedies are most often administered as tinctures, as a capsule or added to the cat's food.

Dwarf and stinging nettle stimulate the circulatory system and help maintain healthy thyroid function. They are effective in normalising hormones produced by the thyroid gland, regulate metabolism and provide minerals and the vitamins A, B and C. Dwarf and stinging nettle are available as tinctures that can be mixed into your cat's food or water.

Bugleweed is part of the mint family. It reduces the amount of thyroid hormone produced which is excessive in cats with hyperthyroidism. Bugleweed is sold as a tincture or tablets.

Bladderwrack or kelp is a sea vegetable and helps to control an over-active thyroid gland. It is a primary source of iodine which is deficient in cats suffering from hypothyroidism. Bladderwack is available as a tincture and in tablet or powder form. A few drops from a tincture mixed into food or water is the best way to administer it.

Huang qi generally supports the thyroid function. It comes as a tincture which you can buy from herbal suppliers. Dilute in water and give a few drops orally or mix into your cat's food or water.

Siberian ginseng also regulates hormone levels and aids relieving the fatigue associated with thyroid problems. It also boosts your cat's immune system. Siberian ginseng is best administered as a tincture.

Changes in your cat's diet will aid the treatment with herbs. Increase the amount of healthy food, or even better, base the entire diet exclusively on healthy foods. Feed a lot raw beef and poultry. Avoid salmon, seafood and white fish. They contain high levels of isoflavones, the main substance suspected of causing hyperthyroidism. Soy is also suspected of contributing to the development of the condition. Since this is present in many canned cat foods, it too should be avoided.

Mineral deficiencies, iodine in particular, are common in cats with hyperthyroidism. Hence, you need to make sure that your cat's food contains plenty of iodine as well as proper amounts of selenium which makes thyroid hormones less toxic. To tackle abnormal thyroid cell growth, also add docosahexaenoic and arachidonic acids to the food.

These natural remedies for cats with hyperthyroidism will help you to keep the condition under control.

Monika Ruthe is a complementary therapist. She has also created an online information resource on natural and home remedies for cats. To discover the best natural remedies for cats for a variety of common ailments and learn how to use them visit homeremediesforcats.com.

Article source: EzineArticles

The Natural Cat: The Comprehensive Guide to Optimum Care, by Anitra Frazier. Combined with classic and reliable advice on grooming, neutering and spaying, common feline health problems, elder cat care, behavioral problems, and emotional bonding, the latest information makes this edition of The Natural Cat the only handbook pet owners will need to naturally nurture a happy, healthy cat. Anitra Frazier is a nationally known feline nutritionist, groomer, and behaviorist, and a pioneer in holistic health for cats...More

Complete Cat Care: What Every Cat Lover Needs to Know, by Bruce Fogle. Playing with our cats, feeding them, grooming them, training them, even protecting them gives us rich emotional rewards. The continuation of this happy relationship is what this go-to guide is all about. Bruce Fogle, an internationally renowned veterinarian, begins by explaining the character traits, health issues, and life expectancy of a wide range of breeds - from show-class Persians to indeterminate mutts. Q & A's, facts and figures, and over 250 wonderful photographs make this an invaluable volume for every cat lover, every cat owner, and anyone contemplating getting a cat. More

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Know How to Look After Your Pet Hamster

2011-05-29T09:47:00.001-05:00

By Kristijan Senjkovic

Hamsters are cute little balls of fur belonging to the rodent family. Unlike rats, these little creatures have short tails. They come in a wide range of colors like white, black, honey tints, cream, yellow or even red. The sense of smell and hearing are very well developed in these animals. If you are looking for a hamster as pet, then you can choose the Syrian or golden hamster, Chinese Hamsters or Dwarf Hamsters.

Living space for hamsters

Hamsters are active and lively creatures that need a lot of exercise. Their health deteriorates if they are kept in small confined places without much place for maneuver. This is the reason why little swings, running pads and rotating wheels are placed in their cages. So, if you want to buy these animals as pets, make sure that you can provide them with spacious living quarters.

The cage that you prepare for your pet has to have space for it to run around, a tiny gym for exercise, separate eating place, water bottle and sleeping place. In keeping with the characteristics of rodents, these animals have very sharp teeth. They can bite through wood and other soft materials and escape from the cage. So, ensure that the case of made up of hard materials like metals or glass.

The best kind of place that you can provide for your pet is a tube cage. A tube cage is a set of tubes, which can be interconnected to form tunnels for the animal to run through. You can add windows, see through places, wheels, toys and things to chew in order to make it more interesting for your pet.

Food for hamsters

Hamsters love multi-cuisine food. So, make sure that you add a lot of variety to the diet you provide for your pet. There are a number of readymade foods available in the market. You can throw in some fresh fruits, vegetables and worms to add variety. The best kind of food for it will be multigrain foods, pellets, special kinds of grass called alfalfa and timothy hay and nutritional supplements comprising of vitamins and minerals.

These animals need plenty of water. However, these naughty little creatures tend to throw all sorts of debris in their water bowls. So, provide water through water bottles attached to the cage. These little creatures like to eat in bed. So, put the food bowl in an area close to its bed.

Health issues

Some of the most common symptoms of ill health in a hamster are loss of appetite, sudden weight loss and changes in behavior patterns. Eye infections, respiratory problems, fungal infections, stomach problems, broken bones and heart problems are the most common health issues in these animals.

To keep hamsters in good health, keep the cages clean, provide healthy food and plenty of water. Wash the food bowls, water bottles and replace bedding regularly. Most importantly, let it have lots of exercise. It keeps the animal healthy. Be careful when you handle these animals. Their razor sharp teeth can hurt you. These creatures are odorless, can be trained and make excellent pets.

For more great tips and advice on hamsters as pets visit animalpets.co.uk

Article source: EzineArticles

The Hamster Handbook, by Patricia Bartlett. Barron’s Pet Handbooks look very much like Barron’s Complete Pet Owner’s Manuals, but the Handbooks are larger—more pages, more text, more color photos, and more detailed pet-care advice. This brand-new title will be of special value to parents of younger kids who are keeping hamsters, to older children who can read the book on their own, and of course, to adults who keep hamsters as a hobby. The author explains everything hamster owners need to know about the animal’s life cycle, traits, breeding, feeding, caging, treating health problems—and simply keeping hamsters happy with appropriate toys and exercise accessories. More

Super Pet CritterTrail Extreme Challenge Habitat, by Super Pet. Extreme challenge habitat for all hamsters, gerbils and mice. The rotating pet-powered activity wheel and spiral slide provide hours of fun activity. Removable petting zone allows for easy interaction and is a safe resting location. Create a dream environment with expandability ports that allow connectible accessories to be added. Easy to clean construction with deep base. Well ventilated environment. Includes water bottle and food dish. Super protect technology built into all interior surfaces to provide a healthier habitat. More

Hartz Bonanza Hamster & Gerbil Gourmet Diet

Most of today's pet hamsters are descended from
hamsters captured in Syria.

Learn how to Help Keep Your Bunny Cooler in Summer

2011-05-27T16:09:00.000-05:00

By Bob Watson

When your rabbit lives inside a bunny hutch or rabbit cage outside the house, summer is usually a problem for them. In fact, it could be lethal if you don't take additional precautions to look after them. Let's take a few minutes to take into consideration how you can care for your rabbit during the summer time.

Why Summer is Difficult for Bunnies

We humans are able to endure heat much better than many animals, including bunnies, for one key reason - we sweat. Our bodies are able to release heat by way of the skin as a cooling system. Rabbits don't have this capability. Combine this with a fur coat and you have a very, very hot bunny.

If it's a wild hare/rabbit, they'll try to compensate for this by burrowing into the earth. They escape from sunlight and into the cooler ground. If you've seen a bunny burrow, you know they'll get very deep which gets them much cooler. For all those inside a bunny hutch or bunny cage, they don't have this option. So, let's consider making their summer a more comfortable time.

When your pet's shelter is a bunny hutch or bunny cage, the best way to overcome the summer heat concern is to get them inside in the air conditioning during the hottest hours. You could put them in your bath room, guest room or any other room where they can be cooler. Just be certain you bring the litter box. Not an option? Then let's consider other options. Listed below are a couple of things I'd strongly suggest you need to do to keep your rabbit cool in summer heat:

1. Confirm your bunny has a good amount of shade - You can't overestimate the need for shade. Don't trust me? Head outdoors on a day when it's over 90 degrees and sunny. Wait in the sun for 5 minutes. Move to cooler areas and wait there for 5 minutes. You'll understand. Your bunny will too.

2. Put icy water bottles in with your bunny - Save some of the 2-liter or milk bottles/jugs and fill them with water. Freeze them and put them within the cage with your rabbit two times a day (one mid-morning, one mid-afternoon). They'll rest against it and thank you for it.

3. Provide them ice water - While we're talking about ice, place a couple of ice cubes inside of their water twice a day too (same times). Adding in ice within a HUGE heavy crock provides them with a chance to soak their paws and/or ears in there if and when they wish. Undoubtedly, they really need the hydration desperately as well. Make sure that they NEVER use up all their water in the heat. Do yourself (and your rabbit) a big favor and buy one of these brilliant lock-on crocks. They're essential because rabbits can't tip them over and waste their water when it's 100 degrees outside. That's a recipe for tragedy. It's definitely worth the $6.

4. Supply a chilly ceramic tile - Purchase a few 12" x 12" porcelain tiles and continue to keep a stack of them in your deep freeze. Place them in the bunny hutch or cage during the hot hours.

5. Spray or wash the rabbit's ears with chilled water - Rabbits dissipate heat thru their ears. Rub their ears with a cold cloth or mist them with cold water and it'll certainly help.

6. Brush, brush, brush - You should groom your rabbit regardless but getting rid of that loose hair with a brush during summer is an essential.

7. Run a circulating fan - You don't want a persistent wind on your bunny but a clip-on circulating fan can really help. You can make it far better by having it pass over a moist wash cloth to deliver some cooling. Be certain to keep the wire beyond bunny's reach.

8.Give them delicious produce - Refreshing produce contain moisture content. Don't skimp on those when it's hot outdoors.

The temperature is picking up in our area, so we will be having to take lots of the suggestions above to help keep our bunnies cool all through the summer. If you are utilizing a bunny hutch or bunny cage just as we are, we trust you will do the same thing.

By Bob Watson. In addition, you can get more information about rabbit cages by visiting me at BunnyHutchHQ.com

How To Raise Rabbits
The Complete Beginners Guide for Rabbit Owners

One major difference between rabbits and hares is that
rabbits are born hairless and blind
while hares are born with fur and can see.

Dogs and Nuts are Not a Good Mix

2011-04-15T15:52:00.003-05:00

By M.K. Albus

Dogs have a keen sense of smell. Most dog owners know that if they are eating something their dog will smell it and come to see what you are eating and they will usually want some of it. Well nuts are a nutritional snack for humans and it not uncommon to be eating nuts. Before long, our dog is at our side looking at us with those loving eyes, watching us eat those nuts, and wanting us to share with them. Our first inclination is to share. We might even have fun throwing a nut and watching our dog jump to catch it in its mouth.

But nuts can produce stomach upset and even worse conditions for our dogs. A dog's stomach has trouble digesting whole nuts. And that is a big part of the problem. If the nuts were well chewed they would not cause as much stomach upset but as we all know, dogs don't chew their food. They gulp it down and nuts they swallow whole.

A dog's stomach cannot break down whole nuts and gets upset trying. Then, as the nuts pass into the intestines they can cause blockages and constipation.

Nuts are also high in phosporous, which in dogs can lead to bladder stones. Nuts are also very fatty and their kinds of fats can lead to pancreatitis in dogs.

While most nuts are not exactly poisonous for dogs, they are not very healthy and excessive consumption can lead to serious health problems. One kind of nut, however, is poisonous to dogs and that is the Macadamia nut. Macadamia nuts have a toxic compound that affects the skeletal muscles of a dog and it can lead to tremors and even temporary paralysis. They should never be fed to dogs.

A few nuts may only upset a dog's tummy but continued regular consumption can lead to bladder stones, gall stones, pancreatitis, and intenstinal problems. So it is best not to feed your dog nuts at all. The nuts smell good to a dog, though, so it is up to us to keep them away from them.

M.K. Albus is a freelance writer who has written numerous articles for several websites, including Resources For Writers.

Dog Cancer Survival Guide
How to House Train and Potty Train Any Dog
Boston Terrier Secrets
Start Your Own Doggie Day Care

Need the Perfect Pet for Your Family? Try a Guinea Pig!

2011-04-08T14:38:00.001-05:00

By Quentin F. Sunders

Yes, that's right. Guinea pigs are perhaps the most perfect family pet that you can purchase. You might think that they are impersonal and unfriendly, but that is not the case. Guinea pigs love attention and the more they get, the happier they are. With time and patience, they can be taught tricks, potty trained and they will eventually be craving your attention with adorable little squeaks and whistles. Not only that but they love to be held and cuddled once they become comfortable in their surroundings.

Unlike many larger animals that require a ton of space and make it difficult to go away, guinea pigs do not. They are perfectly content living in a decked out cage or hutch. Of course, if you will get them out to run and play in your home - they will provide endless hours of fun as well. You just have to make sure that they are in a safe place where they cannot get into small holes or places where you couldn't catch them. Additionally, they respond well to positive feedback and all you need to teach them things are some healthy treats designed just for them..

Of course, they do require care just like any other animal. It is important that they are fed properly and given high quality foods and fresh water. The foods are not very expensive to purchase and a little goes a long way. By supervising children, these little fun loving animals can be a great first pet teaching them the basics of how to care for an animal.

You will need to make sure that their cage stays clean at all times. This is another opportunity for children to learn about pet ownership. But since they are kept in a cage most of the time, they will not damage your home or cause you any extreme cleaning or repairs.

The initial start up costs for one of these little furry balls of fun is around $150. This would include everything and more that you would need to make them comfortable. Since they love being indoors, you can easily keep them in your living room or child's room where they would receive plenty of attention. They are lots of fun to watch and are extremely energetic creatures. At night, when you and the family requires some quiet time all you have to do is place a light sheet over their cage and they will normally sleep.

Guinea pigs are easy to care for. They are intelligent and very responsive animals that love attention. The more you play with them, the more attached to the people in their lives they will become. They are also docile and gentle by nature. Although they can bite or nip if threatened, once you gain their trust they will likely be sweet and loving animals that are safe for children.

If you need more information on Guinea Pigs, You can get it by visiting my website at TheGoldMineForGuineaPigLovers.com You learn about choosing the right Guinea Pig, Bringing your new pet home, Tips on health, breeding and grooming your new Guinea Pig, Information that is a Gold Mine for The Guinea Pig Lover.

Article Source: EzineArticles

The Guinea Pig Handbook, by Sharon Vanderlip. Barron's Pet Handbooks are written, designed, and illustrated in much the same attractive style as Barron's best selling Complete Pet Owner's Manuals. However, Handbooks have a larger page-count and with it, more extensive and detailed coverage of each title's subject pet. This brand new handbook for guinea pig owners provides a wealth of information on the animal's anatomy and life cycle, plus advice on caging, feeding, breeding, and health care. Everything you need to know in one handbook. More

Guinea pigs originally came from South America,
where they were raised as a food source.

Are Animals' Soul Contracts and Pet Past Lives Part of the Pet Reincarnation Process?

2011-04-08T13:08:00.002-05:00

By Brent Atwater

Most pet guardians consider their pet's family members. After the death of a pet, many pet owners undergo all of the human bereavement processes. Animal reincarnation is a new spiritual perspective and resource for pet loss grief support.

Are animals' and pets' soul contracts are real. Yes! The first type of animal soul contract is called "Karmic." A karmic contract affects destiny within a single incarnation. A Karmic contract is limited to that particular lifetime and can still be segment of a larger soul commitment for multiple reincarnations within an owners life. Here are a few examples:

1. A bomb squad dog that dies discovering a mine field to save his platoon.

2. A therapy dog that inspires an assisted living home's Alzheimer's patient to speak for the first time in many years.

These are experiences that affect their human companion's destiny. The animal's Karma (or soul's choice) facilitated the outcome of the interaction with that human. The number of agreements made between a pet's soul and their person determine the quantity of pets' past lives an animal will share with their companion in a single life or throughout multiple lifetimes.

Below are several types of pet spiritual arrangements that an animal can configure in his reincarnation process:

Oversouling: Is when the late pet contracts to direct a new or former pet from a "higher" perspective.

Walk in contract: Is when the deceased pet's energy moves into another pet's body that has agreed to relocate when the departed pet's energy reincarnates.

Soul braiding: Is a shared contract when the deceased pet returns as a roommate within a current pet's body.

New body contract: The pet's energy that passed returns in a new physical form.

Animal afterlife is the timeframe when a pet's life force energy resides in a sacred place after they have transitioned over the Rainbow Bridge. A pet's soul can be "in-service" or live in this dimension forever or they can choose to reincarnate.

Therefore after the death of a pet and during your pet loss grief, hold faith in your heart that your pet's life force energy and love is never ending. The reincarnation process has been embraced by many of the world's oldest religions. Even if you're a skeptic, what have you got to lose by considering the possibility?

If it's what you contracted to do, it might just be only a matter of time until your beloved animal companion returns to be with you!

Brent Atwater, Pet Reincarantion Authority, Author of 4 Pet Reincarnation books. JustPlainLoveBooks.com Email: Meg@BrentAtwater.

Article Source: EzineArticles

The Divine Life of Animals: One Man's Quest to Discover Whether the Souls of Animals Live On, by Ptolemy Tompkins. Anyone who has ever mourned the loss of a cherished pet has wondered about the animal soul. Do animals survive the death of the body, or are they doomed to disappear completely when they leave this world behind? Both scientists and religious authorities have long scoffed at the idea of animals in heaven. Yet the question endures. In this wise, immensely readable book, Ptolemy Tompkins embarks on a quest for the answer—taking us on a top-speed tour of the history of the animal soul. offers a compelling and timeless vision of the relationship between humans and animals that will have you looking at the animals in your life with new eyes...More

More books on animal spirituality

Cat Nutrition: The Best Diets

2011-03-28T16:46:00.002-05:00

By Alyssa Burgess

For most cats, childhood lasts for about one year. During this time kittens require higher level of minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, protein, vitamins, and energy then they will as an adult. Therefore, foods fed to young, growing cats should contain higher levels in balance with each other and with all the other dietary cat nutrition..

Kittens should be fed food with high quality and balance in it. To get the correct type a veterinarian can advise the right one. A life long healthy and happy life will have been influenced by the kittens nutrient intake. Investing great nutrition at this young age is very important.

At about twelve months of age switch the feline to a maintenance diet for adults. Once the kitten is grown, its nutritional needs are reduced considerably from those during the rapid development of that first year. Continuing to feed your adult cat high levels of minerals, proteins, and energy could lead to problems later in life.

Feed a high quality, complete and balanced diet specifically designed for adults. Beware that food that say they are complete and balanced are actually designed for kittens, since they have formulated to meet the needs of the most demanding life stage. They contain excesses of most nutrients for adults and seniors.

Pregnant cats will need extra nutrition during the few weeks of pregnancy and throughout the lactation. Growth diets fulfil this role well. Feed such a food starting in the last trimester of pregnancy and continue until all the kittens are weaned. Also feed her free choice and do not add vitamins or mineral supplements unless recommended by a veterinarian.

At age seven a cat becomes a senior and the diet has to be changed once more. Any health problems need to be looked into so that the proper diet can be recommended for the cat that has a high quality, balance.

Adjust the felines diet to match its health needs. A veterinarian can assist with the switch. If the feline suffers from a specific ailment, such as heart disease, special diets can be prescribed to reduce the wear and tear on the affected organ systems.

Cats that are already healthy should be fed food that has a fibre increase and a calorie decrease. Do not decrease the amount of food that is normally fed to the cat if he is obese, it will not work. If this was done it would cause the feline to suffer from mild starvation.

Instead of cutting back on its ration, switch the feline feed to one that is specially formulated for weight loss. Studies have shown that a high protein, low fat diet can promote weight loss while maintaining lean body mass.

Looking to find the single source of helpful information on Cat Nutrition?

Cat Food Recipes Cookbook
Ultimate Siamese Cat Secrets
How to Raise, Love, and Live With Persian Cats
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An Amazing Pet Rescue Story: Morris the Three-Legged Cat

2011-03-28T16:33:00.003-05:00

By Victoria Cameron

I have always been an animal lover, since a young age. My first cat that I can remember didn’t come to us – we found her. She was an orangecat, resembling the famous Morris from commercials. When we found her, she was caught in a trap near her ankle. My mother promptly rescuedher, and we rushed Morris to the vet. While there, she was stitched up and sent back home. We brought her back, and nursed her back to health, and I was in love with this sweet kitty. No one seemed to know where she belonged, so we adopted her. As she started to heal, we would occasionally let her outside. She would just wander around and come back inside.

Then one day, she just didn’t come back. We couldn’t find her anywhere. Through tears, we searched the neighborhood and asked everyone if they had seen her. We didn’t find Morris until the next day. She had wandered into our horse pasture, where one of the horses had stepped on her. Her hip area and leg were crushed. We took her back to the vet, and he recommended euthanizing her.

Of course, my mother and I would not hear of it. The vet told us he couldn’t put the damage back together, but offered hope if he amputated the leg. We agreed and her back leg was taken off. Morris had a long recovery while her amputated area healed. She had to learn to compensate without a limb and to walk on three legs. She wasn’t slowed down for long. Whether it was because she was young, or just had a big heart, soon she was not only navigating with her missing leg, but in fact leaping onto the couches and beds. She would still go outside and chase butterflies on occasion, but was for the most part an indoor cat.

Morris lived for 16 years with us. She was an inspiration for me in overcoming adversity, and the way that my mom valued the life of even one of the smallest creatures. It instilled in me the importance of pets, and while Morris is now long gone, she lives in my memory. When she became too old to navigate on her three legs and could no longer make it to the litter box, we decided it was best to let her rest.

We took her to the vet, and she fell asleep in my mum’s arms. Morris was only the beginning of my love affair with cats. I have always had at least one cat in my home, and just recently I found another rescue – a little kitten dropped off at Waffle House on Christmas Day. The story continues with my new kitten, a little black ball of fur that I have named Christmas.

Find out more about Animal Charities.

Cat Tree Construction Plans
The Complete Ragdoll Cat Keeper's Handbook
No More Bad Cats!
Veterinary Secrets Revealed

How to Help a Whelping Dog

2011-03-28T16:16:00.000-05:00

By Jerry Welsh

Dogs are kind of addicting – dog owners can’t seem to have enough of these wonderful furry creatures. Dog owners that form a strong bond with the pet would want to breed the dog. Four legged fur balls that follow the original pooch would be a wonderful sight. Watching a dog deliver the puppies is one of the wonders of nature that should not be missed.

Normally, dogs, like their ancient ancestors in the wild would not need human intervention to whelp. However, whelping difficulties that can endanger the life of the dam and the puppies can occur. It is the task of the owner to provide for all the necessities that will make the whelping dog as comfortable as possible. To be able to give urgent assistance, a dog owner has to be able to promptly recognize the signs that the pet is having difficulties in delivering the puppies. While it is important to promptly recognize the signs of difficult labor, it is also equally important for a dog owner to know what must be done to help the pet.

A dog will be pregnant for about eight to nine weeks. At the end of this period, the whelping box lined with old blankets should be ready. Other equipments that must be readied are scissors or dental floss to cut the puppies’ umbilical cord and towels. One very important tool that will let the dog owner know that the pet is ready to give birth is a thermometer. Twelve to twenty four hours before the dog whelps, the normal body temperature of 101.5 F will drop 2 to 3 degrees.

The dog usually takes care of the birthing. The puppy will be licked clean and the umbilical cord will be severed by the dog’s teeth. Cleaning the newborn and cutting the umbilical cord will be the task of the dog owner if for some reasons, the dog would not want to attend to the newly born puppies. This usually happens to first time moms. It will be the dog owner’s task to tear the sac to prevent the puppy from suffocation. As the dog would not clean the puppy the task will fall on the hands of the dog owner.

A whelping dog with a puppy stuck half in and half out would need urgent help. Firmly hold the protruding body part with a towel and pull out the puppy. Remove a dead puppy stuck in the birth canal immediately. This is a life threatening condition that would need urgent professional attention but if none is available, the owner can lubricate the hand with K-Y jelly and try to remove the dead pup. This can be a hard line first aid method but it is very necessary to save both the lives of the unborn puppies and the mother dog.

Find out more about dog first aid at Sarah’s Dogs.

Why You Should Protect Your Dog From Lyme disease - and How To Do It

2011-03-24T17:41:00.003-05:00

(ARA) - The urge to be outside during spring and summer is something that's shared by people and dogs. We all learn to tolerate the bites from mosquitoes and other pesky insects, but there's one pest that both people and pets need to really watch out for: Lyme disease-carrying ticks.

While you might hear a lot about checking yourself for ticks after a hike in the woods, you need to check your dog, too - and remember that it's possible for him to pick up ticks even if you live in an urban area. A number of tick species carry the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi, which causes Lyme disease, but the most common is the deer tick.

While humans can look for the tell-tale sign of a bull's-eye-shaped rash on their skin, there's no such convenient warning for dogs, says Dr. Ernest Ward, a well-known veterinarian who has published numerous articles on MyPetED.com.

"Lyme disease symptoms in dogs are more difficult to detect than in people," says Ward. "When people are bitten by a tick carrying the infection, they see a 'bull's-eye' rash at the site of the bite within three to 30 days. This rash doesn't appear in bitten dogs."

Ward advises dog owners to look for other signs, like lameness, swollen joints, fever, lethargy or decreased appetite. Lameness and limping are common symptoms because Lyme disease affects the joints. The painful limping that suddenly appears may shift from one leg to another. "Some pet owners describe their dogs as 'walking on eggshells,'" Ward adds. "This may eventually disappear and then recur weeks or months later."

Because Lyme disease symptoms are often delayed or go unrecognized, it's possible for Lyme disease to progress to an advanced state before it's considered a problem. However, rare cases of Lyme disease can lead to kidney disease or failure, which is potentially fatal.

If your dog exhibits the symptoms of Lyme disease, it's important to get him to a veterinarian quickly. A veterinarian can administer a blood test to confirm the presence of Lyme disease and prescribe antibiotics to treat it. Sites like MyPetED.com can help you find a veterinarian near you, as well as provide you with credible pet health information and a secure place to store all of your pet's health records. MyPetED also offers a mobile app for iPhones and iPads, which can help you locate a veterinarian, even when you're far from home.

Taking preventive measures can be an effective way to keep your dog Lyme disease-free. While avoiding areas where ticks live, such as grassy, wooded or sandy areas, it's not always possible, particularly with pups that are eager to get outside and play. Instead, be sure to thoroughly inspect your dog after each walk or romp through the woods. If you find ticks on your dog, it's important not to touch them - wear gloves and use tweezers to remove them instead.

For extra protection against Lyme disease, you can opt for a vaccine, which is usually administered in two doses at two- to three-week intervals, and needs to be repeated annually. Be sure to talk to your veterinarian about whether vaccination is the right choice for your dog. He or she might also recommend a topical preventive, such as those that repel both fleas and ticks.

Just a few simple steps can prevent your pet from contracting Lyme disease. When you know what to do and what to look for, you'll be able to concentrate on having fun with your dog in the great outdoors.

Related:
Choosing the Best Dog For Your Kids
Healthy Food For Dogs
Aromatherapy For Dogs
Veterinary Secrets Revealed

Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook, The guide dog lovers have relied on for more than twenty-seven years, this handbook has been extensively revised to include the latest information on everything from canine healthcare to nutrition to holistic treatments. Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook, Fourth Edition, is the definitive guide for every dog owner. With this guide, you'll know when to rush your pet to the vet and when you can begin treatment at home. You'll communicate more effectively with your vet. You'll have the latest information on every aspect of your dog's medical care when you need it. This is the hands-on reference you'll trust again and again...More

Some notable people who have dealth with Lyme Disease include:
Amy Tan, author
Daryl Hall, musician
Ben Petrick, Colorado Rockies catcher
George W. Bush, former president

An Introduction to the Labrador Retriever

2011-03-12T15:51:00.001-06:00

by Sandy Rutherforde

Labrador Retrievers continue to be by far the most favorite breed in countries like the United States, United Kingdom and Canada, and for good reasons. For one thing, these types of dogs are great family pets owing to their gentle, loyal and friendly traits that endear them to both humans and animals inside the home. For another, these dogs are known for their intelligence, adaptability to nearly any situation and athleticism, qualities which are made use of in search-and-rescue, drug detection and other police work and also for civilian uses such as guide dogs.

History of the Breed

Originally coming from Newfoundland in Canada, the very first Labradors worked beside fishermen by helping to pull in the nets then grab the fish that escaped from the fishing lines. This was made possible due to their water-resistant coat and webbed feet along with their natural athleticism.

As is the situation inside the canine community, dog breeders crossed Labs with other breeds, especially setters, spaniels and also other retrievers. And so was born the modern Labrador retrievers as we know them right now.

Right Owner for the Breed

Most dog specialists stress that owners must select a dog breed that will fit their desired traits in the canine. For prospective owners of Labs, keep the following issues in mind.

If you prefer a dog having a happy, peaceful and reliable nature along with a dog who thrives on exercise, play and athletic pursuits, then the Labrador retriever could be perfect for you. However in the event you do not want to deal with exuberant rowdiness, inborn chewing behavior, and make provisions for an abundance of physical exercise, then a Labrador retriever isn't the appropriate dog for you.

Don't forget that Labs are sporting dogs that have to have a good amount of physical pursuits lest negative behavior like chewing and jumping on people express themselves. In case you are usually away on business, this dog should have a companion in the house.

Physical Appearance

The Labrador retriever is a medium-sized dog which has an athletic build. Their coat is short, dense and repellent to water to a certain degree. These particular physical characteristics make the Labrador retriever a terrific dog for hunting waterfowl and upland game for many hours on end. That, when coupled with its stable, reliable and versatile temperament, genuinely makes it a much loved breed among sportsmen.

The Lab's face is characterized by a clean-cut head, powerful jaws and friendly eyes, all joining together to suggest an intelligent dog with great character. Colors for the particular breed of dog consist of blacks, yellows from light cream to fox-red, and chocolates abfrom light to darker tones. Tan and brindle markings also are standard but they are usually cause for disqualification in dog shows, although not with their loving families.

The best characteristic of the Lrador retriever is not in its lovely physical appearance but in its beautiful soul. Labs are gentle animals with very little to no aggressive inclinations toward people and fellow animals. The truth is, Labs are animals with an intense wish to please other people so much so that these dogs are excellent for households with smaller children. So, if you would like a great family pet, then the Labrador retriever could be your perfect choice.

Are you looking for the perfect family dog who is easy to train and a great athlete as well? Be sure to visit my site to learn more about choosing a Labrador Retriever or Golden Retriever for your next pet.

Labrador Puppy Training

7 Amazing Swan Facts That You Must Know Before You Start to Raise Swans

2011-03-08T15:58:00.000-06:00

By Andrew Grey

Have you ever seen a swan? Swans are pictures of elegance as these birds are featured on fairytales and amusement parks. With its graceful stature, anyone can fall in love in their pure white feather and classic neck curvature. For these reasons, they are commonly displayed on ponds of public parks as well as on man-made bodies of water. Upon seeing them, many people became attracted in raising them for their own intentions and purposes. But before rearing swans, it is advisable to first know some interesting swan facts which are as follows:

1. Swans have their permanent partner for life. They are monogamous which means that they only mate with the same swan for the rest of their life. However, divorce may happen where two break off their bondage and mate with others.

2. Mute swans are the only specie that most people are familiar of. This is the typical appearance described in most books especially in fairytales.

3. A male is called a cob. An adult male is the only bird that has a penis.

4. Amazing swan facts about a cob make them distinguishable from other birds. A cob or a male adult acts responsibly for his cygnets and for his partner. He protects his family by making a blow using his knucklebone.

5. A female is called a pen. They have the same appearance as the cobs and the only trait that distinguishes them from male swans is their size; female swans are relatively smaller than male.

6. Swans can live up to 20 years, but their average lifespan nowadays is only around 7 years. The reason behind this is because of the poor quality of food and water given to them, and it is one of the sad swan facts around.

7. Swans feed on vegetation, particularly on aquatic plants. Sometimes, they also eat insects and small aquatic animals.

With the mentioned amazing swan facts, you now have basic knowledge about swans! They are lovely creatures and in plans of rearing them, you must be knowledgeable in terms of the important information about them. Educate yourself about the informative swan facts around especially about how they live and how they are raised. After all, these facts will be beneficial for you, so you can successfully rear swans and enjoy their magnificent elegance and beauty.

Learn more about raising swans and find out more tips about swan facts at HowToRaiseSwans.com.

Article source: EzineArticles.com

A Brief History of Ferrets As Pets

2011-03-06T14:14:00.001-06:00

By M.K. Albus

Although ferrets as pets is a relatively new development, they have in fact been domesticated for around two and a half thousand years. Athough the earliest history is somewhat vague, it is believed that ferrets were first domesticated for use in hunting. It is believed that the first domesticated ferrets came from Northern Africa and were then spread throughout Europe. Romans used ferrets to hunt rabbits.

The word ferret comes from a Latin word meaning, "little thief." This is in reference to the common ferret's habit of secreting away small items. Pet ferret owners have realized this annoying little habit.

It is believed that today's common ferret derived from either the European polecat or the Steppe polecats, or perhaps from some hybrid combination of the two.

It has only been in the last 50 or so years that it has become popular to keep ferrets as pets. Ferrets have appeared in several Hollywood movies and this has increased popularity. It is illegal, however, to keep ferrets as pets in Iceland, Portugal, New Zealand, and parts of Australia.

Female ferrets are called Jills and males are called hobs. Young ferrets under the age of one are called kits. As ferrets become more popular as pets there is a need for information on how to raise them and keep them healthy. Many people are under the false impression that one can keep a ferret following the same information for keeping dogs or cats but ferrets definitely have their own specific care needs. To find out everything you need to know to keep ferrets as pets, visit: FindOutAboutFerrets.com.

Training Your Pet Ferret, by Gerry Bucsis, Barbara Somerville, and Patricia Bartlett. Furry, cuddly, and bursting with energy, lovable ferrets can be a handful for inexperienced owners. The authors instruct on training methods that really work, pointing out that effective training can start anytime, whether owners adopt an adult ferret or purchase a baby as a kit. They offer tips on protecting the ferret from household hazards, as well as protecting carpets and houseplants from a ferret's tendency to claw and dig. They also provide helpful information on housing, equipment, feeding, health care, and more. New in this edition is a chapter on clicker training, a humane and effective way to solve ferret behavior problems. Filled with color photos...More

Essential Care Tips For Pet Rabbits

2011-03-06T14:07:00.001-06:00

If you currently have a rabbit, the following tips may give you some helpful guidance in how to care for your rabbit so he remains healthy and happy. Caring for rabbits takes time, patience and love, and it’s not for everyone. But if it is right for you, you’ll get a lot of enjoyment from your pets.

If you are considering getting a rabbit, you should know first of all that rabbits do not make good pets for young children. Rabbits are very timid and can even die from fright. While bunnies are cute, rabbits are very fragile and must be handled carefully. Rabbits are not likely to be happy in a home full of small children, and they really aren’t cut out to be pets for little kids. All in all, this is not a good situation for rabbits.

Keep in mind that rabbits love to be out and about, with the people they love. Many people let their rabbits roam the house; they follow their people around like dogs, but with the advantage that rabbits, like cats and unlike dogs, can be litter trained. That said, your rabbit should be either in a large cage or in a rabbit-safe, closed-off room when you’re not around to keep an eye on him. Like cats and dogs, rabbits get into stuff. And rabbits love to chew, so you should be very cautious about anything in the room that your rabbit could chew up and cause harm to himself or your belongings.

As you would expect, your rabbit needs to have constant access to fresh water, and have fresh food available. Rabbits can drink from a water bowl (get one that won’t tip easily) or from a water bottle attached to the side of the cage.

What do rabbits eat? Well, don’t rush out and buy a head of lettuce for your bunny, because that kind of lettuce has very little nutritional value. Rabbit pellets from the pet store are a good staple, along with some fresh hay (not too much), and occasional treats of leafy greens, apples and of course carrots. While a rabbit will eat almost anything, you should feed the foods that provide god nutrition and don’t upset his sensitive digestive tract.

If you can provide a calm environment, room to roam, a good, safe place to sleep and spend spare time, and the right food, your rabbit will have almost everything it needs. The only thing lacking will be your love and attention, which you are no doubt ready to give in huge quantities.

Learn more here: HowToRaiseRabbits.com

The earliest historical evidence of people carrying
a rabbit's foot for good luck
is from around 600 B.C.

Enjoy a Fun and Unusual Pet - The Pygmy Goat

2011-03-01T18:34:00.002-06:00

By C.S. Swarens

Pygmy goats are a popular pet for those looking for an adorable and easy-to-care-for outdoor pet. These good natured animals are quite animated and offer the same benefits as full-sized goats, including being providers of milk and effective at cleaning up dry leaves and other natural waste, but they are far more compact and require less space than their larger relatives.

Housing a Pygmy Goat

Housing a pygmy goat is relatively simple. In fact, an 8' x 10' shed provides plenty of room for up to four adults, though care should be taken to provide elevated areas for the goats to use when feeding and sleeping. In addition, an attached enclosure should be added to the shed in order to provide the pygmy goats with an outside area to roam and play. Be certain to make the fencing at least 4 feet high, however, so your pygmies can't escape!

Keep in mind that the main goal of providing shelter is to keep your pygmy goat out of the rain, wind and snow. Therefore, you should take care to make certain the shelter is not drafty or leaky. At the same time, it is important to remember that pygmy goats like to have places to jump and to climb. You should also plan for good ventilation in the shelter in order to keep odor and moisture to a minimum.

Feeding Your Pygmy Goat

Many people believe that pygmy goats will eat anything they can come across, but this simply is not true. What is true, however, is that they are hearty eaters and do prefer to graze throughout the day rather than eating large amounts of food a few times per day. Therefore, it is best to provide your pygmy with a section of land on which it can graze regularly. Keep in mind that goats actually prefer to eat things such as clover, dandelion, wild lettuce, brush, blackberry, and rabbit brush over grass, so providing them with access to a weedy, overgrown area is preferable to allowing them to graze in an area that is mostly comprised of grass.

In addition to providing your pygmy with opportunities to graze, you may need to supplement your pygmy's diet with legume hay, such as clover or alfalfa hay. This type of hay is better than grass hay because it contains more protein. During the summer months, however, you may not need to provide your pygmy with anything more than a pasture on which it can graze and access to plenty of clean water. Young pygmies or a doe who are currently nursing, on the other hand, will still need supplemental foods such as oats and corn in order to provide them with the extra energy they need.

Although pygmy goats aren't your typical pet - you certainly won't bring them indoors to cuddle with you in bed at night and you likely won't take them for a walk in the park any time soon - they make for wonderful companions. So, if you are looking for a pet that is easy to care for and will bring you years of enjoyment, a pygmy goat may be just the pet for you.

CS Swarens is the CEO of Find a Pet Online. 800 998-7065. For additional information on dogs, cats, birds, horses, and exotic pets visit the internet's resource for pets for sale. Research pet information with detailed profiles of over 430 pet breeds.

Article source: Ezine Articles.com

Learn more here: RaisingGoatsGuide.com

If you're going to have goats you
will definitely need one of these signs:

Novelty Goat Crossing Sign 12" X 12"

The Goat Handbook, by Ulrich Jaudas. Goats are economically valuable animals, but owners need basic information about their care, housing, breeding, and upkeep. Here is expert advice in non-technical language. Barron’s popular line of Pet Handbooks resembles Barron’s Pet Owner’s Manuals series, but are larger, having more pages, more photos and line illustrations, and more detailed advice and information. Pet owners and soon-to-be owners will find reliable information from breeders, veterinarians, and pet care experts presented in easy-to-follow, handsomely designed volumes.... More

The Goat Lady

Caring for Betta Fish the Correct Way

2011-03-01T17:56:00.000-06:00

The Betta has quickly become one of the most popular freshwater fish in the aquarium trade. In just a few short years, these creatures have gone from a well-kept secret among serious enthusiasts, to being found in nearly every office and household, offered for sale in every pet store or major chain store in America.

Betta is a tank fish and its maintenance is quite easy. However, it does need some care and you should be attentive to its heath. A sick Betta is easy to spot since naturally the fish is very active and vibrant. If you have had the fish for a while you will be able to spot immediately when they feel sick.

The following tips can help you keep the Betta fish healthy and active:

1. A bowl large enough to allow ample swimming space is a necessity. The fish shouldn't bump and tear its fins or scales. A large enough tank also ensures that the water has adequate oxygen level. That's why it is recommended to buy a 3-gallon tank for the Betta to have plenty of room. Keep the bowl or tank away from sources of hot and cold air such as heaters, cold or sunny windows, drafts, etc. It's is important that the fish container be kept cool at about 65 to 75 degrees F.

2. Betta fish do not require filtration but need the cleanest water you can provide them. Change the water around every three days to keep it clean and prevent infection in your fish. The water you add to the tank should have set out for 24 hours, to release some of the chemicals. Avoid buying water with a high pH as when you add it to the tank it is so new to the fish that it puts them in shock and kills them.

3. Ensure that the bottom of the bowl or tank is debris free. Debris sitting at the bottom will make the water cloudy and unhygienic for the fish. They will also cause the water to smell. When cleaning the tank accessories, avoid using soap because traces of soap will change the water pH.

4. Bettas are also called Siamese fighting fish because the male of the species will fight each other to the death. They are highly territorial animals and will react violently if two are placed in the same container. Avoid putting two males in the same tank. Females can stay together and so can one male with many females. You can also keep your Betta with guppies.

5. Pet stores usually don't carry female bettas, because they tend to be less colorful and showy than the males. Also, people are usually just looking for a nice pet, not a breeding hobby. If this is your intention, then I suggest doing some serious research before you start!

If you are looking for more useful tips on proper Betta fish care you can find all you need to know at BettaFishSecrets.com.

How To Start Raising Turkey and What You Need

2011-03-01T16:51:00.000-06:00

Raising turkey are rather relatively easy to start, unless you want to whole herd, perhaps just one or two for your holiday dinner is going to work.

It's time to raise turkeys for the holidays, and because they're relatively easy if you have a bit of space you can raise several together and then sell the other ones to pay for your own turkey. You'll need a convenient pen for raising turkeys, as they need warmth, food and water as will as vitamins and certain nutrients.

Raising turkey is always easier when raising more than one bird at a time, not only are they a likely eat better, but also they more comfortable in flocks, and in the wild you'll see a flock of turkeys hanging out. So get three to five when you begin your turkey growing experience, that way if you lose one or two you'll still have a couple to get to maturity for your holidays.

You want a climate controlled pen or shelter for your young turkeys. You'll have to fill it full of soft flooring, give them a heat source such as a red heat lamp, as well as convenient food and clean water. There are several things that can happen within your flock of turkeys, but it's all according to how you want to grow them, whether organic or not as what you're going to do concerning the problems.

Many turkey farmers will lose quite a few young turkeys due to diarrhea, you can avoid this common problem by putting acidophilus in their water. This is considered an organic remedy to the problem, also, coccidiosis, the cause of the diarrhea can be solved with antibiotics in the water as well. It's all according to whether you're raising organic turkeys, or are going to use processed food. If you're using processed food it's okay to use antibiotics in the water, but if you're raising organic turkeys, try the acidophilus.

Also, without the proper nutrients and vitamins in their diet your turkeys legs can grow crooked. This will cause them to be unable to walk, resulting in poor turkey form and possible death. Make sure that you read up on these types of problems on the Internet before getting your baby turkeys. This way you can avoid these types of turkey health risks before they become a real problem.

It's not difficult raising turkey for your holidays, start about five months before the holidays, that should give you ample time to get them turkeys large enough for your dinner. Also, as far as butchering, you may find a local establishment that may do it for you. Enjoy the adventure of raising turkey for the holidays, and then enjoy eating a dinner you raised yourself.

Learn more here: HowToRaiseTurkeys.com

A Finch Makes A Great Pet

2011-02-28T22:52:00.003-06:00

By Jennie Samuels

The pet bird that has come to be commonly called Finch is mostly a very little, but extremely spirited bird. The life-span of a Finch will be from 6 to 8 years, though there happen to be some Finches which have was living for 27 years, a surprising and astonishing victory for such a minute bird. The beginnings of Finches is debatable, with some advocating Australia, with more recent investigations advocating the Caribbean Islands as its root beginnings .Species of Finches will differ in size, and individually a Finch will differ in length and girth one from another. Ordinarily, a Finch is anywhere between 3 or 4 inches, yet can develop as large as 8 inches in size.

Finches are usually not noisy birds, for example like some parrots. Their sound is delightful, and some, in particular the male Finch, sing pretty often and in a highly melodious tone. Males will chirp during mating times, which usually is a kind of high-pitched noise. If a Finch detects danger to their selves, or feels a peril to their home, they can actually achieve a hissing sound. Try to make sure anytime you shop for your Finch, that you get a set of Finches. Finches love to entertain each other with their songs. It is not unusual for the male Finch to perform to the female, seeking to attract her with his tunes.

Several items to look for anytime you are that you are going to invest in a Finch is the movement within the cage. Is the Finch just motionless, not moving about, and looking dull on the perch? If this is true, avoid selecting that Finch. Is the bird shiny-eyed, and are the feathers of the Finch shiny with a minor gloss? That is definitely a good indication.As previously instructed, do not choose a single Finch unless of course you already have another Finch. Finches do not do well on their own. Finches are sociable birds,wanting company, and enjoying mostly the company of other Finch. For that reason, you would be wise to actually purchase a pair of Finch. You may even wish to find more, which is fantastic, but beware of putting too many birds in your bird cage.

When you introduce a new Finch into the aviary, make sure you follow the activity in the cage for a period of time. You're going to want to relax and watch for symptoms of hostility, especially ruthless behavior on the part of a Finch who may get very territorial over a food dish. This is why it is much better to place more than one dish in the aviary (bird cage). This will sometimes avoid these kinds of territorial disputes this way.

Serving your Finch is simple . Finches eat seeds, mostly, and the wild Finch eat insects, worms, grass seeds, and grains. But, at the time you pick up seeds, make absolutely sure they are not infused with insecticide. If you can find natural and organic seed, so much the better. Do not furnish your Finch with Canary or Parakeet seed. They will simply not eat, and in fact have been known to starve, neglecting to eat that seed. Give your Finch grass seed, or niger thistle, sprouts, and provide some millet in their bowl. One very good choice is boiled eggs, including the covering of the egg. Just grind the egg up. Now, they will not eat the entire egg since that is far too much food for a Finch.After all, they generally will only eat about a teaspoon of seed per day. That isn't much, so an entire egg would absolutely be a waste. It is rare that a Finch will overeat.

Get a stainless steel bowl, a small one, and put it on the bottom of the cage, away from the perches. Do the samewith the water dish. Otherwise, you'll have feces falling into the mix, which may eventually bring diseases to your bird. Use the stainless steel bowl for the food. It does not need to be enormous, but of sufficient size that it will not be tipping over and making a mess, and of a size such that it will provide enough food for a day or two at least. These bowls are also easier to clean up. However, if you are going to use a different material, look for something that will not be toxic to the Finch. There is a grading system for plastic containers and you'd be warned to look for one marked with a #4, which is generally deemed safe for humans to use. However, if it has a #1 rating, this is usually meant that it is a plastic designed for a single time use. Be safe. Use the best for your pet Finch. Some plastics will leach, that is, they will leak chemicals into the surrounding material, in this case, your Finch food. That's why stainless steel is best. Remember, these little birds are susceptible to their surroundings. If you want to keep them safe, then provide them with safe eating bowls.

You may use a small dish for waters, as they need liquid every day. Put in a small contiainer, about an inch deep, for use as a bird bath. Finches love to take baths. Do this at least once a week, or more often if you see they enjoy it. See what your finches enjoy most. If they use it every other day, then provide the bird bath to them on a regular basis.

Take heed the perches you purchase. Wooden perches can become corrupted with feces and once they do, they're difficult to decontaminate. Do not use a wood such as redwood, or cedar, or pressed wood chips, since these are noxious and will be deadly to the Finch, avoid dowels, because they are known to give ailments to the feet of Finches. And, it almost should go without saying, but absolutely never put in place a perch that is layered with a sandpaper coating. Best bet? Hardwood branches, if you're into wood, or use a safe plastic. You will, now and then, probably have to cut your Finch's nails. Do this with care, and only after you know what you're doing. It's a delicate operation. Far too many owners cut too far. Trim only the tiniest piece off the end of the nail, and no more. Don't cut back very far. Just cut enough to do the job.

When you purchase an aviary for your Finches, do it with caution. Finches need some flying room. They are quite fast paced. You will need a good sized bird cage. Make the length of the bird cage at least 30 inches. Tall avairies, column-like cages are not appropriate for Finches. Also, make sure the spacing between the cage ribs is no more than 3/8's inches apart.

Finches need the sun. Nevertheless, make sure you position the aviary in such a way as to give the Finch a place to find shade. If you live in a very hot climate, don't leave the Finches in direct sunlight that will cause the environment to heat to levels that are dangerous for the birds.

If you take care of your Finches, you can take advantage of their company for many years. A Finch is a hearty little bird that will satisfy your family, yourself, and any company who might come to visit you.

Jennie has been an avid finch breeder for over 20 years. For more information visit finchandfinches.com.

How To Raise Happy and Healthy Finches
Pet Finch Care
Veterinary Secrets Revealed
Worldwide Petsitting Directory

Finches (Animal Planet Pet Care Library), by Rebecca K. O'Connor. Written by an expert on bird care, Finches offers useful advice on breeding, showing, and keeping these popular birds. It discusses both indoor and outdoor housing and provides an introduction to building an aviary. Includes advice on feeding, housing, grooming, training, health care, and fun activities. Family-friendly design with over 60 full-color photographs plus helpful tip boxes. TFH Publications, Inc. has teamed up with Animal Planet, the only television network devoted to the unique bonds between humans and animals, to present an exciting new series of comprehensive guides to superior pet care. More

Gouldian Finches (Barron's Complete Pet Owner's Manuals), by Gayle A. Soucek. These beautiful multicolored birds are native to Australia. When kept as pets, they thrive on seeds and fresh fruit. Here's reliable information on cage maintenance and general care of this popular bird. Barron's extensive line of Complete Pet Owner's Manuals presents information for non-specialist animal owners and prospective owners, with facts about each animal's origins and traits, as well as advice on purchasing, housing, feeding, health care, and much more. Each book is individually written by a trainer, breeder, veterinarian, or other animal specialist. Titles in this series cover every popular breed of dog and cat, freshwater and marine fish, many bird varieties, and virtually all other animals that are kept as pets. All books are filled with handsome color photos and instructive line illustrations. More

A typical finch egg is about the size
of an American dime.

Golden Retriever Information - An Overview Of This Lovely Dog

2011-02-28T22:30:00.001-06:00

By James Drake

It was back in 1925 that the AKC first recognized the Golden Retriever as an official breed. Originally developed by Lord Tweedmouth in the Scottish Highlands toward the end of the 1800's, they were first known as the Golden Flat-Coat. Golden Retriever information is essential when you choose to adopt a Golden and finding out about the breed, such as its behavior, temperament and general health, will help you to make the right choice.

Initially they were developed in order to accompany shooting parties who hunted waterfowl and as such they needed to be intelligent, eager to please and obedient. But besides their temperament they also needed to have what is referred to as a soft mouth so they would not damage the waterfowl they retrieved. They needed to be comfortable in water and boast a thick undercoat which is covered by a water-repellent and sleek top-coat that lies close to the body.

Over the years they have become more and more popular as family pets, therapy dogs, and in the law enforcement sector. They are one of the most sought after breeds in the world and according to the national Golden Retriever information registries in the United States, they rank forth on the list of popular dog breeds. Not only are they known for their friendly, obedient, lovable temperaments, which make them an excellent choice as a family pet, but they are also a popular choice as guide dogs for the blind and serve in the fields of search and rescue. In the law-enforcement field they are renowned as narcotics detectors.

Golden Retriever information typically describes them as being kindly, friendly and confident as well as being excellent with children, displaying great gentleness and patience. However, they are definitely not one-man dogs and are just as friendly with strangers as they are with those closest to them. Although they readily announce the arrival of an intruder it is unlikely that they will attack and depending upon your perspective this makes them unsuitable as guard dogs!

When it comes to exercise, goldens need it regularly. Although they will adjust to apartment living it is essential that they receive daily exercise. As their name suggests they love to play games that involve retrieving things, whether a stick, ball, frisbee, etc. Retrieving games will keep them occupied for ages, especially if there is also some water around to retrieve things from.

As far as their intelligence goes they are noted for it, being capable of learning many commands, words and phrases, with some reliable Golden Retriever information sources claiming that they can learn in excess of two hundred phrases and words. Because of their eagerness to please, which is one of the hallmarks of their behavior, they have a tendency to focus on a task with great intensity. This obviously makes them easier to train but care must be taken on the part of the owner to ensure that they don't overwork themselves, which can be an issue with this breed.

Golden Retrievers live on average between ten and twelve years. Health wise they are known to suffer from cancer, hip dysplasia, heart disease, and eye defects. According to available Golden Retriever information, they are also prone to being overweight and so regular exercise and a proper, healthy diet are important to both their physical and mental wellbeing. Skin allergies can also be a problem and will require the assistance of a vet.

Due to their wonderful temperament, gentle natures, willingness to please and their impressive intelligence, this breed has firmly established itself as a favorite. However, as with most things in life, knowledge is key and you should definitely consider arming yourself with all the Golden Retriever information that is available to you. Many reputable online sites will help you to learn more about the breed and what you can expect when you bring your Golden Retriever puppy home.

James Drake is a Golden Retriever enthusiast and enjoys helping others taking care of this amazing breed. For more great Information About Golden Retrievers, visit golden-retriever-guide.com.

What to Do If Your Dog Has Diarrhea - Tips For a Healthy Recovery

2011-02-28T22:23:00.000-06:00

By Alex Howell

Dogs being man's best friend can provide enjoyment and entertainment to its owner especially if they are healthy. Like his master, dogs can encounter health problems. One of the major causes why dog owners visit veterinarians is because their pets have diarrhea.

Actually, it is not considered as a disease but rather a symptom because it indicates that something is wrong with the dogs' health. As the owner, it is necessary to know what to do if your dog has diarrhea in order to apply certain medications as early as possible.

The intensity of diarrhea varies as its cause does. However, there are certain things that can be done at home provided with proper information. To help you what to do if your dog has diarrhea, you have to go over this whole article.

Diarrhea is characterized by watery stool that can sometimes include blood. Therefore, it is just expected that the dog will be dehydrated if the condition will continue to occur for 2 or more days. This time, it would be better to let your pet dog drink water in large amounts. Make sure that the water is clean because if not, there is a big possibility that it will just worsen the condition.

Foods given to the dog is one great contributor for the condition. For acute diarrhea in dogs, it is advisable not to give any food for about 24 hours. This will let the stomach be at rest. After neglecting food for the time allotted, you may gradually re-introduce his meal such as boiled or baked potatoes, cooked rice, canned or mashed pumpkins, boiled eggs, boiled turkey and chicken.

Just make sure that these must be given in small amounts and must not include flavorings, oil or butter. Also, giving little amounts of plain yogurt can help cure the condition because it has probiotic cultures that are good for digesting.

Medicines like Pepto Bismol and Loperamide Immodium are used by humans to help them relieve from diarrhea. These medications are also possible for use in dogs with the same condition, but using the specific amount prescribed by the vet. Pepto Bismol can make the watery stool become compact and hard.

If the condition of your dog still continues for three days, it is better to bring him to the veterinarian to seek proper care. Remedies at home can help a lot but sometimes if the diarrhea is already chronic, it is better to ask for professional help. You may have your dog's stool tested for possible cause of the symptoms. Learning what to do if your dog has diarrhea is important in order not to worsen your pets annoying condition.

Is your dog suffering from diarrhea? Discover how you can stop your dog's loose stool fast by adopting a safe yet natural dog diarrhea treatment. Useful articles and tips to help your pet heals fast and get healthy again. Visit our site now at: thedogdiarrheatreatment.com

Midas Cichlid

2011-02-28T22:10:00.000-06:00

By Jan Hvizdak

A native of the lakes in Costa Rica and Nicaragua the Midas cichlid or Amphilophus Citrinellus is a popular fish of many pet shops and fish owners. It is a large fish that can grow to fourteen inches in length. It is quite beautiful and comes in an array of colors. They are normally yellow, red and white or an assortment of these colors. The Midas cichlid can easily be identified by the nuchal hump which is a feature of the adult male. The female version is not quite as distinguishable. The males have larger fins as well.

This fish likes lots of water. It should be placed in a large tank alone or in pairs. One Midas would be happy in a tank of 75 gallons of water. That should be the minimum amount. If the fish keeper still insists in placing it with other fish the best option would be to put fish of the same size. Any fish that looks to be inferior will surely end up in the stomach. The tank should have lots of rocks and wood. Ceramic pieces and slate will make it very comfortable. Since this is a fish that loves to dig it is not a good idea to place many plants in the tank unless they are plants that will prove difficult for the fish to move. Even if they can't move the plant around they will shred it to pieces.

The Midas cichlid is omnivorous so it should be fed on protein as well as non protein foods. Worms, brine shrimp, processed fish food should be used to feed this fish. Vegetables and plants should also be added to the diet. They should be fed two or three times per day.

This fish has an intense breeding season. The male and female will play with each other for weeks and even months. They rub against each other until the time comes for the female to lay the eggs. The couple work together by digging towards the bottom of the tank where the female will lay the eggs. After laying them in rows the male will fertilize each of them. The male becomes very possessive and may attack the female during this period. To ensure her safety the fish keeper should put dividers in the tank. The male will stay with the eggs until the fry are able to go on their own. Both parents have a habit of eating any eggs that are not hatched.

If given proper treatment the Midas cichlid can live for up to fifteen years. The water should be cleaned regularly and have the correct temperature. They produce a lot of waste so the water should be tested regularly for any contaminants and chemical imbalances that would cause them stress. The recommended temperature is between 75 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. They are prone to Hole-in-the-head disease.

The Midas cichlid is a very interesting fish. They have flourished in captivity. Scientists have been using them to help in the conduct of behavioral research.

Jan Hvizdak owns Aqua-Fish.Net where you're welcome to visit a profile of the Midas cichlid.

Article source: EzineArticles

Why Do Cats Purr? The Story You May Not Know

2011-02-28T12:42:00.004-06:00

By Kevin Highfill

Here is a question that cat owners have asked since the dawn of the domestication of the cat...why do cats purr? Well, the cat is indeed a mysterious entity and often times it's difficult to decipher their behavior, however, there are some standard patterns which can help answer this age old question at least somewhat.

One reason why a cat may meow and purr is that they are simply happy, you probably already sensed that intuitively, and yes, it's true, when your cat is content and satisfied with the world around them, when they are in a post-Lasagna-feasting-Garfield-mood, they love to let the world know it by letting out a soft "thank you" to the cat Gods and Goddesses.

Another reason they may be making this pleasant sound is that they are nursing their young and want to sooth their tiny kittens, make them feel comfortable during their feeding time. It makes sense really, the mother is trying to teach her children to associate warm and love with eating, reinforcing their instinct to eat for survival. This type of purring is most likely instinctual, remember cats are not very far removed from the wild and still retain a lot of their instincts unlike some other pets...like dogs, for instance.

Sometimes cats get scared, just like we do, sometimes more so. If you watch a cat closely they may purr in an attempt to reassure themselves that everything is copacetic.

Sometimes they will enter a room hear a strange noise, perk up their ears and purr in order to soothe their fraying nerves; it truly depends on the cat, some will scatter to the four winds when this type of situation happens.

Cats are very intuitive, that's part of the reason why we adore them so much, they know when we're happy or down, they sense it, and often times our cats are trying to cheer us up when they brush up against our legs with their whiskers and purr after we've had a rotten day. That's part of the joy of having a cat around; they can tune into our emotions and help us transform our feelings from sad to glad.

And, they may purr simply because they want to be social and introduce themselves to our new guests whom they just haven't met yet. Of course, they may hide under the bed for a little while, tip toe up to your friends and slowly engage in this courtly process, after your cat warms up and realizes that there's no danger, they will purr, it is their way of extending a paw in friendship.

When eating something particularly tasty, a cat will sometimes purr, they just can't help themselves; this is a purr that comes from deep down inside.

Why do cats purr? Well, in truth we may never know the entire answer, but it's definitely safe to say that a cat expresses a very wide range of moods and emotions through its vocalization.

Kevin Highfill writes about why do cats purr and other pet related topics at http://www.online4pets.com/.

Article source: EzineArticles.com

18 Ways to Stop Cat Urine Odor
Worldwide Purebred Cat Breeder's Directory
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Ultimate Siamese Cat Secrets

Why Do Cats Always Land on Their Feet?: 101 of the Most Perplexing Questions Answered About Feline Unfathomables, Medical Mysteries and Befuddling Behaviors, by Marty Becker and Gina Spadafori. Explaining the ins and outs of the feline psyche. Because the better you understand cats, the easier it is to love the kitty on your couch. Can you teach an old cat new tricks? You bet! Expecting a baby? It's perfectly okay to keep your cat. What about kittens? You'll find everything you always wanted to know about feline sex but were afraid to ask...More

The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Cat Breeds, by Angela Rixon. Lavishly illustrated, the 256 page directory is presented according to basic groups: shorthairs, longhairs, semi-longhairs, orientals, and foreign breeds--all featuring full color identification photography plus photographs of varieties to show variations within the breed. Breed standards are given as well as care boxes for at a glance tips for each breed. An introductory section covers the history of cats, ranging back over the millennia to the wild cats which roamed the earth with early humans to the domesticated cats of today. There follow sections on the anatomy, physiology, and psychology of the cat, and specialist terminology is illustrated with examples taken from the breeds featured in the Encyclopedia. Photographs, maps, and drawings show how particular conformations and characteristics have evolved into groupings which are recognized today. More

Cat Health Care Supplies

Cat Urinary Tract Problem: 5 Best Ways to Deal With It

2011-02-28T12:33:00.003-06:00

By Laura Ramirez

A cat urinary tract problem is not as common as UTI among dogs. However, if left untreated for a long time, it can lead to severe complications which may prove to be fatal in the end. So if you are a cat owner, see to it that your beloved felines get regular check-ups to determine if they have symptoms of a cat urinary tract disorder, and have it treated immediately.

We've come up with a detailed checklist of the top five remedies and preventive measures against a cat urinary tract problem. It emphasizes natural methods over synthetic ones for the sake of your cat's overall health and well-being.

1. Keep a close watch for symptoms of cat UTI.

Your cat can't verbally express how it's feeling, so it's up to you to watch out for the usual symptoms of a cat urinary tract problem. Key symptoms to observe include what seems to be a sudden kitty toilet crisis. The organs and tubes involved in the production and excretion of urine disorder of cat is marked by your pet's reluctance to use its kitty litter, so once it starts using the floor, your furniture, or other surfaces as toilet, chances are it already associates the litter box with the painful experience of urinating.

Also observe if your cat grooms its genital area more than usual. It can be attempting to relieve the burning sensation caused by UTI through licking. Bloody urine which may also have a strong acidic smell, drinking too often, lethargy, and crying out in pain while urinating are more severe signs of cat UTI and must be treated straightaway.

2. Provide your cat ample amounts of clean drinking water.

A well-hydrated pet is unlikely to have a cat urinary tract problem. Cats should have a regular supply of clean drinking water to keep any urinary tract disorder at bay. Feline diets, especially dry ones, require distilled water (not chlorinated or tap) to prevent constipation and other illnesses. Clean water helps them flush out toxins faster, and aids proper liver function.

3. Make regular trips to the veterinarian.

Giving your cat antibiotics can often make a cat urinary tract problem worse. This is because antibiotics only suppress the symptoms long enough for the body to heal itself, but this does not always happen. In this way, antibiotics can often make a urinary problem chronic which is why pet owners are starting to consider other treatment options.

4. Consider natural treatments for organs and tubes involved in the production and excretion of urine of cat problem over synthetic ones.

Vitamin C is usually recommended as a cat dietary supplement and to control the incidence of a cat urinary tract problem. Unfortunately, it has been proven to cause diarrhea to most cats. When it comes to natural treatments for a cat urinary tract disorder, consider what your pets will instinctively look for and ingest when they're out on their own in the wild. Herbal ingredients such as berberis vulg, which has natural anti-inflammatory properties and helps with proper immune system function; cantharis for healthy maintenance of urine flow; and staphysagris, which is great for feline urogenital health; are just some tried-and-tested ways to address feline UTI.

Other herbs which your cat will most likely pick out on its own to make itself feel better are Echinacea, Indian ginseng, milk thistle, and dandelion. Fortunately, you can now get these in a conveniently prepared formulation designed specifically to treat a cat urinary tract problem.

5. Make preventive measures against cat urinary tract disorder recurrences.

In the case of a cat urinary tract problem, an ounce of prevention is really worth a pound of cure. As mentioned above, it's best to get your cat to the vet for regular check-ups for early detection of any symptoms. You should also maintain your cat's hygiene by giving baths regularly. Remember that your beloved pet grooms itself using its tongue. A filthy coat can encourage bacteria and infection pretty fast. The same goes for its diet: choose wisely when it comes to pet food. Don't give your cat something laced with sodium or sugar, as these can encourage a the organs and tubes involved in the production and excretion of urine disorder of cat.

Laura Ramirez is an advocate for pet health. Read more about her recommendations by going to Pet-UT-Health.com/.

Article source: EzineArticles.com

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Does Your Pet Need a Spring Cleaning? How to Make Sure Your Pet Shampoo and Other Products Are Safe

2011-02-28T12:21:00.002-06:00

(ARA) - Now that spring is here, your dog will be outside a lot more, and will probably need baths more frequently. But have you ever considered what is in the soaps and shampoos and other products you buy for your pet?

For dog owners, there are no two ways about it - pets are part of the family. You want your four-legged companion to be as happy and healthy as any other member of your family. Many of the things you buy for your human loved ones - like food, medicine and beauty products - are regulated by agencies that make sure those products are safe. You might assume that there are similar restrictions on pet products, but unfortunately, that's not the case.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires that accurate ingredient lists be put on human items like shampoos and soaps. The agency strictly regulates supplements intended for human consumption. Though laws regulate what advertising claims can be made on pet supplies for dogs, the FDA does not regulate shampoos used on pets unless the shampoo is classified as a drug, e.g., anti-dandruff. This means that many manufacturers are misleading the public as to what is in their shampoos. Even when some manufacturers claim drug facts, many forgo the costly product registration process and unfortunately are too low a priority to get noticed by the FDA.

Given the trend toward organic products, some vendors make claims about their products being all natural when they are not - often with impunity. Worse yet is the fact that they might not honestly list the ingredients in the product, which could be harmful for your dog. A short ingredient list is a red flag that you might not be buying an honest product.

"Without a thorough and honest ingredient list, it can be hard to recognize that some pet shampoos are actually products made for humans, just re-labeled," says Lorenzo Borghese, who founded Royal Treatment pet products out of concern for the skin problems his own dog was experiencing. He notes that while that might not sound too bad, human soaps are bad for dogs' skin. "Human skin is acidic, while dogs' is alkaline, and a product intended for human consumption has an improper pH which can cause the skin to burn or become irritated."

Adding to the problem, foaming agents like sodium laureth sulfate, often found in human shampoos, strip oils off the skin. Human skin is porous, so it can naturally replenish those oils, but dogs' non-porous skin can't, leaving them with extremely dry skin. That is often a big part of why veterinarians only recommend washing your dog every four to eight weeks.

For those looking for a natural dog shampoo, the problem of incomplete labels is frustrating, and even more so when trying to help a pet with skin and coat problems. Borghese's Royal Treatment line of shampoos and conditioners was formulated with ingredients that are ideal for animals' sensitive skin, all of which are listed on the label. Because the products are sold on television they have to meet rigorous standards and have complete and verified ingredient lists.

The same problematic lack of regulation that affects topical pet care products also makes it difficult for pet owners to know whether pet health supplements are safe and effective.

The low cost of overseas production often means that manufacturers will outsource the work of producing pet supplements. That also means that there is sometimes a lack of oversight and quality control - pet supplements might not contain the ingredients in the amount claimed on the bottle. For pet owners who want to take care of health issues like joint stiffness or a poor coat, it's almost impossible to verify whether the supplement they're giving their pet has the ingredients it claims in the active quantity listed on the label.

Working with renowned veterinarian Dr. L. Phillips Brown, Borghese also launched a line of supplements for dogs with the same principles of providing verifiable ingredients that are ideal for pets. "The ingredients in these supplements are standardized," Brown says. "They are made in the United States, and what's on the label is in the product." Batch testing helps to verify that ingredients are present in the correct amounts that are necessary for the supplements to be effective.

Knowing precisely what you're giving your dog is important. It can be difficult to take the guess work out of shopping for pet supplements and care products, but the most important thing to demand is information about the exact ingredients in everything from food to shampoo to supplements. Armed with that knowledge, you can give your pet a healthy, happy life. For more information on pet-safe products, go to http://www.royalpetclub.com/.

Essential Oils For Natural Pet Care

Bad Dog Breath: Why It's Not Normal and Can Be a Sign of Dental Trouble

2011-02-28T12:04:00.001-06:00

(ARA) - Most people dutifully brush their teeth not only to prevent cavities and gingivitis, but also to keep their breath smelling fresh. In just the same way, regular brushing for dogs can ensure good dental hygiene and reduce the infamous "doggy breath."

Many pet parents believe that bad dog breath is a package deal and comes along with having a dog. While a common misconception, this is not true -- bad dog breath is a symptom of poor oral hygiene. Therefore, it's important that pet owners recognize this and take steps to improve their dog's oral health.

According to the American Veterinary Dental Society, up to 80 percent of dogs over three have some form of tooth and gum disease. If left untreated, tooth and gum disease can cause bad breath, swollen and bleeding gums, difficulty eating, and tooth loss. Longer term it can lead to even more serious health problems like liver, heart or kidney disease since bacteria can travel from the mouth to other parts of the animal's body.

"Some dogs are predisposed to having dental problems, but a majority of the dogs that I treat have bad teeth because their owners didn't take any preventative measures. As a result, these dogs are forced to undergo expensive cleanings that must be done under anesthesia," says Dr. Elizabette Cohen, practicing veterinarian and author. "Brushing your dog's teeth shouldn't be a big chore, and certainly nothing to fear. Your dog depends on you to make the proper health choices for him, and dental care is one of them."

Any pet owner can do much of their dog's dental care maintenance right at home. And for new pet parents that have never brushed their pet's teeth or pet owners looking to get rid of doggy breath, Dr. Elizabette Cohen offers these tips:

1. Brush your dog's teeth every day. Make it a point to do it after you've brushed your own teeth, either in the morning or the evening, so that when you think of brushing your teeth, you think of brushing your dog's as well. Retail stores with pet care sections and veterinarian's offices sell specially designed dog toothbrushes and dog toothpaste that make the job easier on you and more palatable for him. For those that simply cannot brush their dog's teeth, your veterinarian can prescribe dental wipes that can help simplify the process.

2. Get your dog in the habit of sitting for a teeth cleaning. It's a huge help if you can start your oral care routine early by getting your dog in the habit when he is a puppy. That way, it will become part of his normal routine. But whether your dog is a puppy or an adult, ease him into the feelings associated with dental care. Start by gently touching his mouth on a regular basis, and then by touching the inside of his mouth, followed by opening his mouth. Always be gentle and move slowly to help dogs get used to this new routine.

3. Contrary to popular belief, doggy breath is NOT normal. Give them dog toys and dog treats that will do double duty - clean their teeth and keep them entertained. For example, Hartz Chew 'n Clean Dental Duo will satisfy your dog's natural desire to chew and gently massage his gums, all while helping to clean his teeth. Also, treats like Hartz Crunch 'n Clean contain breath-freshening crystals with chlorophyll to freshen breath.

4. Make a dog biscuit or treat with dental benefits a part of your dog's regular diet. Most treats and biscuits only provide cleaning by mechanical abrasion. Hartz Crunch 'n Clean Dog Biscuits and Treats go one step further - they include Dentashield, an ingredient that reduces new tartar formation. A recommended daily serving of these biscuits and treats can make a difference in your dog's oral health in just 30 days.

5. Go back to training basics and treat your dog to a healthy reward to make teeth cleaning a habit. Teach your pup to associate a tooth brushing routine with a reward your dog is sure to like, and that supports your good oral care efforts.

Taking better care of your dog starts with paying attention to his teeth -- something that many pet owners ignore. By doing simple things like brushing your dog's teeth regularly or giving him treats and toys that encourage good dental health, you'll help to ensure that he's healthy and happy for many years to come. For more information about the importance of caring for your dog's teeth, visit the American Veterinary Dental Society website at www.avds-online.org, or to find out more about caring for dogs, visit Dental Essentials for Dogs.

Simple Steps to Raising Turkey Meat on Your Own

2011-02-27T16:53:00.008-06:00

Turkeys are great meat; it's lean, has a lot of great antioxidants, and natural vitamins and nutrients and can be even better if you are raising turkeys meat on your own.

It can be very simple and easy in raising turkeys. First of all, start your turkey production with good healthy stock concerning your turkey babies. You can raise them from the egg yourself in an incubator, or purchase good healthy stock from many of the turkey farms. Make sure to watch out for diarrhea, crooked legs at about four weeks, and that they don't get too cold.

When it comes to raising turkeys you are going to want to give them heat lamps so the turkeys don't get too cold. When turkeys get cold, they cuddle up together and actually sit on top of one another, resulting in a pile up of turkey, with the bottom being smothered to death. Of course it does matter how many turkeys you are raising at a time, you should always try to raise at least 5 as one or two may pass away and three can be a flock together.

You also need to decide whether you're growing organic turkey or other types. Once you've made that decision, you can make decisions on deciding exactly what food to feed your turkeys. Remember in order to have organic turkeys you need to feed organic food, and stay away from processed turkey food and medications.

Many turkey farmers battle diarrhea with their turkeys, but you can put antibiotics in the water. As soon as you see turkeys with diarrhea you must begin to treat them or dehydration and death will be the result. Some organic turkey growers have had success with diarrhea in by using acidophilus in the water.

If you notice your turkeys are wondering around acting drunk, there's a good chance they are lacking in particular vitamins and nutrients, you can get a commercial mix for the water from your feed store, or you can try feeding different types of organic foods to increase vitamin and nutrient content of their feet. Some have used alfalfa and had this problem solved and there may be other types of organic feed you can use, look into organic turkey food on the Internet.

Raising turkeys meat is a great way to supplement your diet with lean meat full of great vitamins and nutrients for your whole family. Just make sure your turkeys come from a healthy farm, keep them warm until they are old enough to regulate their own temperature and feed them well. Look to your Internet for information about raising turkeys on a small farm and then enjoy their large graceful bodies wandering around.

Learn more here: HowToRaiseTurkeys.com