A pet exercise pen is essentially made for just about any type of animal. Most people are under the impression that they are specially made for small puppies or dogs. They do come in very handy for these particular pets; however they can be used to contain animals such as pigs, rabbits, and birds, just about any small or medium pet. You can also find pet exercise pens for larger pets as well.
You can purchase the panels to make a pen of the desired size. Most of them are made up of panels that are attached together to for a pen with multiple sides. You can choose to arrange them in the shape you want whether octagon, square or rectangle. You can purchase the panels in various height and most of them are coated with black or gold zinc finish.
You should know a little about your pet before purchasing a pet exercise pen for him/her. Note his jump ability. If your pet does not jump very high then you would not need such a high pen. Also consider if you want your children to be able to step over the sides to pet your animal. Also if you wish to keep your kids out of the pen then you should consider the height you wish to purchase.
If your pet is soft mannered or more aggressive this should also be taken into consideration. Does your pet love to chew on things? Then you should look for a more durable pen. Look for a pet pen that does not have any sharp edges or whose outer coating will not peel.
Are you looking for an indoor pet exercise pen? Then you should place something on your floor underneath the pen to protect your flooring or carpet from any accident that might occur. For external use make sure your pet pen comes with anchors that will enable you to anchor it securely to the ground. And never place your pen in direct sunlight, Look for a shaded area to place it.
You should never leave your pet without supervision for a long period; however these pens are great for keeping them secured. Also ensure you place adequate water and food inside the pen for them and leave a toy that they can play with.
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Soft Sided Pet Carrier - Luxurious Pet Travel
People often give too much love to their pets. This is not necessarily a bad thing, but this can be bad when it is not done properly. You, as a pet lover, can love your pet so much to the point of bringing it where ever you go, and this includes the times when you are traveling to other places via airplane or ship.
Obviously, these transportation service providers cannot allow pets to run wild on their airplanes or ships, which is why they need to be in a cage or in pet carriers. If you happen to love your pet so much, try giving it more luxury when traveling by buying it a soft-sided pet carrier.
A soft-sided pet carrier can be beneficial for your dog in terms of comfort. When in the luggage compartment of an airplane, it is quite possible that turbulence might make the dog inside bump against the sides of the carrier, making your pet bruised all over and hurting when it gets out of the cage. This will stress out the dog, and might cause premature death.
Getting a soft-sided carrier will eliminate all of these by allowing your pet to stay inside a cushioned cage. This can lessen the impacts for the dog. And provided that you did the crate system of training for your pet, there will be no worries of it peeing all over his cushioned carrier which can be such a bother to clean up, especially when traveling.
From the kennel to the airport, make sure to use a soft-sided pet carrier that will not only give your pet the comfort while traveling, but you will also give you peace of mind since you know that your beloved pet is in good hands. Now go out and enjoy your vacation with your lovable pet, you both deserve this time of rest.
Obviously, these transportation service providers cannot allow pets to run wild on their airplanes or ships, which is why they need to be in a cage or in pet carriers. If you happen to love your pet so much, try giving it more luxury when traveling by buying it a soft-sided pet carrier.
A soft-sided pet carrier can be beneficial for your dog in terms of comfort. When in the luggage compartment of an airplane, it is quite possible that turbulence might make the dog inside bump against the sides of the carrier, making your pet bruised all over and hurting when it gets out of the cage. This will stress out the dog, and might cause premature death.
Getting a soft-sided carrier will eliminate all of these by allowing your pet to stay inside a cushioned cage. This can lessen the impacts for the dog. And provided that you did the crate system of training for your pet, there will be no worries of it peeing all over his cushioned carrier which can be such a bother to clean up, especially when traveling.
From the kennel to the airport, make sure to use a soft-sided pet carrier that will not only give your pet the comfort while traveling, but you will also give you peace of mind since you know that your beloved pet is in good hands. Now go out and enjoy your vacation with your lovable pet, you both deserve this time of rest.
How to Control Fleas on Your Pets
There seems to be a great deal of confusion and controversy about the best ways to get rid of fleas. There is no one perfect way to do it, nor is there one perfect product. Rather, there is a process that should be followed. The process involves a couple steps that must be followed regularly to completely become flea-free. Do not be mistaken about this: it is not a problem of a dirty home or pet, nor is it only for outdoor pets. It is simply a problem that one flea gets in the home, lays eggs and the cycle has begun. Once you've begun the process of breaking the vicious cycle, maintaining a flea-free environment is very important.
It may be helpful for you to understand a little bit about fleas and their life cycle to better grasp not only how difficult it can be to get rid of them, but also how important it is to continue preventative measures after they are finally gone. Fleas go from eggs to larva, then to pupa and finally to adult. You don't need to know that or than to understand that when you see an adult, more than likely there are plenty of other fleas (in various stages) lurking about as well. The other flea stages are nearly impossible to see as they are tiny and white. They can easily be mistaken for dander, on a dark pet, or be totally missed on the fibers of a light colored pet bed. The point here is that the fleas are lurking and will continue to be around for weeks to months, as the fleas mature from their current life phase.
If you don't know whether or not your pet has fleas, here is one little trick to check (but, by no means does this mean that there are absolutely no fleas around):
Take a fine-toothed comb (or purchase a flea comb from the pet store) and comb the fur on the back of your pet, near the base of their tail.
If you see fine dark specks, that look much like dirt, place it on a damp paper towel.
Either allow the 'dirt' to sit for a few minutes or using your fingertip, gently rub the 'dirt' into the paper towel.
If you see a light orange color leech from the dirt on to the damp paper towel-that is "flea dirt" or digested blood (you can think of it as flea poop).
If you do not see any discoloring on the paper towel, more than likely your pet has not had recent exposure to fleas. The "flea dirt" comes from when the flea bites in to the skin of your pet, sucks in some blood and then makes deposits on your pet after they've digested what they needed.
No matter how you come to find evidence of fleas on your pets, the key is to start treating your pets immediately. There are many ways to treat for fleas including topicals, shampoos, sprays, oral medications, etc. You should consult your veterinarian for their recommended flea treatments.
A few points of caution:
Not all topicals are safe for pets.
Dips are not required to treat for fleas anymore, as they can be very harmful to pets (with the advancement in flea treatments, flea dips are becoming a thing of the past)
Be sure you read all labels carefully before giving your pet any flea treatment, before spraying or "bombing" and if you or your pet, have health issues.
If using a topical flea treatment, read the package directions and plan grooming/bathing around that information. Over-bathing may wash away topical treatments.
Consult your veterinarian for the safest, most effective treatment for your pet and home.
It is not recommended to buy products outside of the United States (if you live in the United States).
Again, your pet may have fleas that have not matured to the biting, adult stage. If you have a concern, give your pet a bath in pet-appropriate shampoo, rinse well and dry. This should wash away any fleas presently on your pet. After drying, according to package instructions, apply your topical flea preventative. Understand that fleas can remain in the pupa (cocoon) stage for as long as a year, making flea preventative a necessity year round.
The same day that you treat your pet, you should treat the environment. Fleas thrive in warm moist places, making even your home in the winter a thriving environment for fleas. You should wash all bedding that your pet(s) are in contact with on a regular basis. Be sure to clean carpets, wipe down flooring and heat sources (like baseboard heating). If the job is too big for you, you have many pets and/or your flea problem is still present after months of treatments, you should call an exterminator. Try to find a local exterminator that guarantees their work, and that is willing to give you an estimate based on your home's square footage. An exterminator experienced with flea control is ideal. Your ultimate goal here is to get rid of the fleas as quickly and safely as possible.
As stated in the beginning of this article, there is no perfect way, nor a perfect product to get rid of fleas. Just as a flea has a life cycle, you must create a treatment and preventative cycle to be permanently rid of fleas. Like any parasite, once they have a host to live off of, it can be a challenge to get rid of them, but is not impossible. Again, consult professionals to help you find the best way to proceed for you and your pets.
JA Marino is a Veterinary Technician, pet owner and animal lover. Her experiences with pets and fleas has been the inspiration for this article. Having seen many confused or frustrated pet owners question flea preventatives and treatments available, she wrote this article to help other pet owners with this problem.
It may be helpful for you to understand a little bit about fleas and their life cycle to better grasp not only how difficult it can be to get rid of them, but also how important it is to continue preventative measures after they are finally gone. Fleas go from eggs to larva, then to pupa and finally to adult. You don't need to know that or than to understand that when you see an adult, more than likely there are plenty of other fleas (in various stages) lurking about as well. The other flea stages are nearly impossible to see as they are tiny and white. They can easily be mistaken for dander, on a dark pet, or be totally missed on the fibers of a light colored pet bed. The point here is that the fleas are lurking and will continue to be around for weeks to months, as the fleas mature from their current life phase.
If you don't know whether or not your pet has fleas, here is one little trick to check (but, by no means does this mean that there are absolutely no fleas around):
Take a fine-toothed comb (or purchase a flea comb from the pet store) and comb the fur on the back of your pet, near the base of their tail.
If you see fine dark specks, that look much like dirt, place it on a damp paper towel.
Either allow the 'dirt' to sit for a few minutes or using your fingertip, gently rub the 'dirt' into the paper towel.
If you see a light orange color leech from the dirt on to the damp paper towel-that is "flea dirt" or digested blood (you can think of it as flea poop).
If you do not see any discoloring on the paper towel, more than likely your pet has not had recent exposure to fleas. The "flea dirt" comes from when the flea bites in to the skin of your pet, sucks in some blood and then makes deposits on your pet after they've digested what they needed.
No matter how you come to find evidence of fleas on your pets, the key is to start treating your pets immediately. There are many ways to treat for fleas including topicals, shampoos, sprays, oral medications, etc. You should consult your veterinarian for their recommended flea treatments.
A few points of caution:
Not all topicals are safe for pets.
Dips are not required to treat for fleas anymore, as they can be very harmful to pets (with the advancement in flea treatments, flea dips are becoming a thing of the past)
Be sure you read all labels carefully before giving your pet any flea treatment, before spraying or "bombing" and if you or your pet, have health issues.
If using a topical flea treatment, read the package directions and plan grooming/bathing around that information. Over-bathing may wash away topical treatments.
Consult your veterinarian for the safest, most effective treatment for your pet and home.
It is not recommended to buy products outside of the United States (if you live in the United States).
Again, your pet may have fleas that have not matured to the biting, adult stage. If you have a concern, give your pet a bath in pet-appropriate shampoo, rinse well and dry. This should wash away any fleas presently on your pet. After drying, according to package instructions, apply your topical flea preventative. Understand that fleas can remain in the pupa (cocoon) stage for as long as a year, making flea preventative a necessity year round.
The same day that you treat your pet, you should treat the environment. Fleas thrive in warm moist places, making even your home in the winter a thriving environment for fleas. You should wash all bedding that your pet(s) are in contact with on a regular basis. Be sure to clean carpets, wipe down flooring and heat sources (like baseboard heating). If the job is too big for you, you have many pets and/or your flea problem is still present after months of treatments, you should call an exterminator. Try to find a local exterminator that guarantees their work, and that is willing to give you an estimate based on your home's square footage. An exterminator experienced with flea control is ideal. Your ultimate goal here is to get rid of the fleas as quickly and safely as possible.
As stated in the beginning of this article, there is no perfect way, nor a perfect product to get rid of fleas. Just as a flea has a life cycle, you must create a treatment and preventative cycle to be permanently rid of fleas. Like any parasite, once they have a host to live off of, it can be a challenge to get rid of them, but is not impossible. Again, consult professionals to help you find the best way to proceed for you and your pets.
JA Marino is a Veterinary Technician, pet owner and animal lover. Her experiences with pets and fleas has been the inspiration for this article. Having seen many confused or frustrated pet owners question flea preventatives and treatments available, she wrote this article to help other pet owners with this problem.
Harsh Puppy Training - Are You Interested In An Aggressive K9 Personal Trainer?
A puppy in the home is without a doubt a treat for any family members, still teaching that canine can be an annoying and difficult job. It will take lots of time as well as vitality in your court in order to assist the dog feel as if a part of the family. There are a variety of methods for training classes for example canine training tips, k9 training treats or you may log on to the internet and click on research puppy dog training. For those who do not get the aid you require from these, then you may decide to employ a puppy dog personal trainer.
For everybody who is the pleased owner of a new puppy or dog, there are many things that you need to understand. That you are the puppy's brand new family, therefore he needs to get to know you and grow to be close to his or her new habitat. Most importantly, he needs to hear orders given in your voice. Therefore, a coach is just not a substitute for the time as well as attention you should take.
The goal of a dog instructor will be to assist supplement what you have by now trained. Maybe you have simply been through training your pet dog to follow your simple instructions like sit down, stay, across, silence, move etc. By far the most important and, at times, irritating parts of training is dog potty training, making this a thing that owner will often seek help with.
Choosing an instructor
Deciding on the best instructor is crucial and you will take into account that not every puppy trainers are of the same level of skill. Therefore, it is wise to make sure that the skills of a trainer just before letting him, or her, close to your pup.
Qualifications - To begin with, you should a look into a trainer's expertise. Basically, the number dogs that he, or she, has coached and how long he, or she, is working as a trainer. Ask about coaching tactics and vaccination specifications. You might check the Better Business Bureau to find out in case any dog owners have lodged negative opinions.
Apply a Clear Voice for Instructions - An excellent teacher could teach you various things. For starters, they will assist you to say one command for getting the animal in order to stick to. Speaking out of frustration is only going to make things even worse (especially for the period of the canine potty training or crate training). As an dog owner, you should be capable to understand the guidelines an instructor is giving to the canine, to help you replicate these directions.
For everybody who is the pleased owner of a new puppy or dog, there are many things that you need to understand. That you are the puppy's brand new family, therefore he needs to get to know you and grow to be close to his or her new habitat. Most importantly, he needs to hear orders given in your voice. Therefore, a coach is just not a substitute for the time as well as attention you should take.
The goal of a dog instructor will be to assist supplement what you have by now trained. Maybe you have simply been through training your pet dog to follow your simple instructions like sit down, stay, across, silence, move etc. By far the most important and, at times, irritating parts of training is dog potty training, making this a thing that owner will often seek help with.
Choosing an instructor
Deciding on the best instructor is crucial and you will take into account that not every puppy trainers are of the same level of skill. Therefore, it is wise to make sure that the skills of a trainer just before letting him, or her, close to your pup.
Qualifications - To begin with, you should a look into a trainer's expertise. Basically, the number dogs that he, or she, has coached and how long he, or she, is working as a trainer. Ask about coaching tactics and vaccination specifications. You might check the Better Business Bureau to find out in case any dog owners have lodged negative opinions.
Apply a Clear Voice for Instructions - An excellent teacher could teach you various things. For starters, they will assist you to say one command for getting the animal in order to stick to. Speaking out of frustration is only going to make things even worse (especially for the period of the canine potty training or crate training). As an dog owner, you should be capable to understand the guidelines an instructor is giving to the canine, to help you replicate these directions.
Keeping Pets Just Now
Today, keeping pets is a extremely popular thing in our life. There are many advantages pets can offer to us, such as providing people with companionship, house security and enhancing nice behavior among children. Pets also can create new attitudes to people, particularly for the disabled who are always not confident in communicating with others or taking part in social activities. By keeping pets, they may open their heart to others and play with others.
In fact, pets training is essential if you want your pets be a part of your family. For example, if you have a dog which you would like to be as the other members of your family, it must learn how to behave and learn what they is acceptable behavior.
When you begin to train your puppy, you should train it at the beginning rather than waiting till it is older, it will learn quickly just as a child does what you expect. After all, you wouldn't wait until your child was 5 or 6 years old to start teaching her or him to walk and talk. A puppy needs consistency. This is the major cause of dog training that is not effective. Remaining consistent with the training will let him know exactly what you want.
Besides, it is wise to consider the caring of your pets. Unfortunately, pet-owners are always unaware of what they can do to be sure pets' safe, warm and healthy, especially in the winder. Therefore, you should take good care of your pets. When you are tired of stress from work, pets can encourage you to go outside for a walk to release stress. Pets can also bring you some moments of relaxation and mind refreshment, which makes you never feel lonely even when you live along.
In fact, pets training is essential if you want your pets be a part of your family. For example, if you have a dog which you would like to be as the other members of your family, it must learn how to behave and learn what they is acceptable behavior.
When you begin to train your puppy, you should train it at the beginning rather than waiting till it is older, it will learn quickly just as a child does what you expect. After all, you wouldn't wait until your child was 5 or 6 years old to start teaching her or him to walk and talk. A puppy needs consistency. This is the major cause of dog training that is not effective. Remaining consistent with the training will let him know exactly what you want.
Besides, it is wise to consider the caring of your pets. Unfortunately, pet-owners are always unaware of what they can do to be sure pets' safe, warm and healthy, especially in the winder. Therefore, you should take good care of your pets. When you are tired of stress from work, pets can encourage you to go outside for a walk to release stress. Pets can also bring you some moments of relaxation and mind refreshment, which makes you never feel lonely even when you live along.
Pet Gift Ideas for 2010
Our pets are so much a part of our families that we want to include them in our family events and what bigger family event is there than Christmas? This is one of the reasons millions of us will be buying our pets gifts this year, after all we buy long lost relatives who we never see gifts so why not a member of the family we see each and every single day?
The market for Christmas pet gifts has exploded in recent years with a whole host of different gift ideas to choose from ranging from the practical to the fanciful.
For a practical gift idea why not choose something your pet will use each and every day? A food and water bowl makes for a great gift idea. As it's Christmas you can really splash out and buy a nice stylish bowl, not only will this last your pet a long time it will also look good in your home. It's likely that your pet's food and water bowls are going to be seen in your home so why not make sure they are stylish and attractive?
Just like us our pets spend a huge amount of time asleep so why not splash out on a comfy bed for them to sleep on. While the floor may be good enough for most pets a nice warm and comfy bed will likely provide a much better and more restful night's sleep. There are a whole host of different types of beds to choose from ranging from a simple cushion to a four poster bed. Just as with your pets bowl, a pet bed will be on display in your house so why not choose something that not only provides comfort for your pet but will also look good in your home.
Grooming products might not be the first thing you think of when looking for Christmas pet ideas but why not buy them something that will keep them looking great throughout the year. For your smaller pets this might not be so important but for the likes of dogs and horses grooming products could make for an ideal gift and also be important for keeping their coats healthy and glossy.
For something a bit more bling why not choose a diamond encrusted collar and make your dog the envy of the park. For something a bit cheaper but always popular why not buy a few tasty treats so your pets can dine out on something nice as you tuck in to your turkey.
The market for Christmas pet gifts has exploded in recent years with a whole host of different gift ideas to choose from ranging from the practical to the fanciful.
For a practical gift idea why not choose something your pet will use each and every day? A food and water bowl makes for a great gift idea. As it's Christmas you can really splash out and buy a nice stylish bowl, not only will this last your pet a long time it will also look good in your home. It's likely that your pet's food and water bowls are going to be seen in your home so why not make sure they are stylish and attractive?
Just like us our pets spend a huge amount of time asleep so why not splash out on a comfy bed for them to sleep on. While the floor may be good enough for most pets a nice warm and comfy bed will likely provide a much better and more restful night's sleep. There are a whole host of different types of beds to choose from ranging from a simple cushion to a four poster bed. Just as with your pets bowl, a pet bed will be on display in your house so why not choose something that not only provides comfort for your pet but will also look good in your home.
Grooming products might not be the first thing you think of when looking for Christmas pet ideas but why not buy them something that will keep them looking great throughout the year. For your smaller pets this might not be so important but for the likes of dogs and horses grooming products could make for an ideal gift and also be important for keeping their coats healthy and glossy.
For something a bit more bling why not choose a diamond encrusted collar and make your dog the envy of the park. For something a bit cheaper but always popular why not buy a few tasty treats so your pets can dine out on something nice as you tuck in to your turkey.
Large Rabbit Hutches - Pros and Cons
One of the major factors of choosing a home for your pet is its size. A large rabbit hutch is deemed to be better for the rabbit's welfare than a smaller one. However, there are also some disadvantages to buying a big hutch. In this article I want to go over some of the pros and cons of having a large rabbit hutch. I hope that this will help you to choose the very best hutch for your pet.
Pros:
- A large hutch provides greater living space for your pet which allows it to run around, hop, exercise, and so on.
- A spacious hutch allows you to have more rabbits now or in the future if you so choose.
- A big hutch is sturdier, for the most part, and will last you longer than a small one.
- Having space will make your rabbit happier and more lively.
Cons:
- A big hutch usually costs more money than a smaller one. If you're looking for a cheap hutch, size will have major impact on the price.
- A large rabbit hutch requires a lot of space in your home. Some hutches are meant to be outdoors. You can't really fit them inside your home. Unless you have space in your home or yard, you will be limited in your options of hutches.
- A bigger hutch requires more cleaning. This does up more of your time.
Space is crucial for your pet's happiness and health. However, you don't need to go overboard with it. Choose a good sized hutch and your rabbit will be happy.
Pros:
- A large hutch provides greater living space for your pet which allows it to run around, hop, exercise, and so on.
- A spacious hutch allows you to have more rabbits now or in the future if you so choose.
- A big hutch is sturdier, for the most part, and will last you longer than a small one.
- Having space will make your rabbit happier and more lively.
Cons:
- A big hutch usually costs more money than a smaller one. If you're looking for a cheap hutch, size will have major impact on the price.
- A large rabbit hutch requires a lot of space in your home. Some hutches are meant to be outdoors. You can't really fit them inside your home. Unless you have space in your home or yard, you will be limited in your options of hutches.
- A bigger hutch requires more cleaning. This does up more of your time.
Space is crucial for your pet's happiness and health. However, you don't need to go overboard with it. Choose a good sized hutch and your rabbit will be happy.
Fighting The Flea And Tick Battle
External parasites are the nuisance of every pet and pet owner. As well being irritating, fleas and ticks transmit disease, several of which are catching to humans. For pets, these parasites can cause physical harm ranging from severe skin problems to arthritis to laziness and depression. They can even help spread other parasites such as tapeworms to pets. In warm areas like the humid South, flea prevention is a year-round event
Nevertheless, it is critical for pet owners to approach flea prevention with the three-prong attack. That means you cannot take care of or apply prevention to your pet and believe you're going to win the flea battle. Pet owners must put forward a reliable effort by treating their pet, yard and home.
FLEAS
There are 5 types of Fleas: FleaXenopsylla Cheopis, FleaEchidnophaga Gallinacea, FleaPulex Irritans, FleaCtenocephalides Felis,and FleaCtenocephalides Canis The most ordinary flea is Ctenocephalides felis, or simply known as the cat flea, though it definitely does not separate among the canine, feline or humans species. The cat flea is completely shaped for its mission: to latch onto a warm body and suck its blood. The entomological comparable of Superman, the flea is capable of jumping as high as 13 feet and therefore has no trouble leaping on to tall dogs in a single bound! Small dogs and cats are no challenge at all.
TICKS
The most common Ticks: TickIxodes scapularis (Deer Tick), TickRhipicephalus sanguineus (Brown Dog Tick), TickDermacentor variabilis (American Dog Tick), TickAmblyomma americanum (Lone Star Tick),and TickDermacentor andersoni (Rocky Mountain Wood Tic North America is home to quite a few tick species including: the deer tick, the western black-legged tick, the Lone Star tick, the Rocky Mountain wood tick and the American dog tick. The diseases that ticks cause and spread are horrible for both humans and pets, and serious cases can even be deadly, so do not take these bloodsuckers lightly.
Some of the more well known diseases associated with ticks includes Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever.
FLEA INFESTATION
The flea is a frequent problem for pets as well as their owners. As if flea bites aren't bad enough, some pets are "flea allergic" and build up harsh itching with even trivial infestations of fleas. This occurs because the animal becomes hypersensitive to the antigens in flea saliva. The best approach is to kill the flea and prevent its return. Like all parasites, fleas create a health-hazard to your pet (and to you), and can make him miserable. These annoying pests can be treated and prevented. Flea control and prevention is easier and safer than ever. The old-style, toxic products containing organophosphates, pyrethrins and permethrins can still be found over the counter, but today's most efficient products for your pet are topical treatments available from your veterinarian. Remember, you want to get a product that is safe for your picky pet and unsafe only to the fleas. Examples of good and safe products for your pets include Frontline Spray, Frontline Plus, Capstar and Advantage. What to Watch For: Itching, Chewing and Licking,Staring, anxious expression, flea dirt (looks like black pepper on the skin),skin lesions such as moist dermatitis, and presence of fleas, Treatment Treatment for fleas may be reliant on the following: the amount of infestation; whether you have both cats and dogs; the time of the year; area of contact (yard vs. park); and whether your pet has an allergy to the fleas. Many products are obtainable for the treatment of flea infestations. All products have advantages and disadvantages and may or may not be secure to use with other products. Some of the over-the-counter powders sprays and collars. In tough cases, a complete flea control program may be needed that involves treatment of your pet, yard and house.
TICK INFESTATION
Tick infestation is the existence and attachment of a tick, a blood sucking parasite. Direct contact with ticks regularly results in tick infestation. As well, ingestion of ticks can happen when the dog grooms. Tick infestations are more widespread in dogs than cats. There is no age or breed fondness, although individuals who spend more time outdoors and who are in direct contact with ticks are more often affected, such as hunting breeds. Ticks may emerge as a small dark speck on your pet's fur, or in an attached, puffy state, may appear as small growths or raisins. Ticks are essential agents of disease transmission. Although not all ticks carry disease, it is important to note that certain ones do. Signs connected with certain tick-borne diseases (borreliosis, ehrlichiosis, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, Lyme and others) differ with the organ system affected. Treatment Ticks should be detached as soon as possible to reduce the amount of pathogen (disease producing organism) transmitted. To do this, grasp the tick close to the skin and pull gently, normally with tweezers, and never with your bare hand.
Tick collars or products applied topically may act to prevent connection of new ticks and to promote detachment of ticks already attached. Ticks may be killed by spraying, dipping, bathing, or powdering affected individuals with appropriate tick-killing products Ticks belong to the arachnid family, which also includes spiders. Ticks may not be as widespread as fleas in a lot of areas, but they can bring serious problems in the form of diseases that can be transmitted to people as well as pets.
TREATING THE ENVIRONMENT
Keep in mind that in addition to treating fleas and ticks on your pet, you also need to treat your pet's environment, indoors and out. Many indoor products contain both an adulticide (permethrins and pyrethrins) and ingredients to kill the eggs and larvae (Nylar and Methoprene). Features to Consider in Flea and Tick Medications: Size/dosage, Effect (do you want more than one effect e.g. fleas/ticks/heartworms), Presentation: liquid, shampoo, dip, collars, spot-on, tablets, oral solutions, Safety, Efficacy, Ingredients, Cost, Guarantee, Waterproof, and frequency of Administration, Safety Tips for Using Pet Flea and Tick Medications: Always read label instructions on any flea and tick medication before administering to your pet. Review age and weight of your pet before application or dosage of any dog flea and tick medication. Give all dog flea and tick medication as directed. If your Veterinarian recommends year round treatment, follow their instructions.
Flea and Tick medication products labeled for another animal types should not be given to another pet (NEVER give your cat products labeled for your dog). Using Flea and Tick Products: Read the entire label before use. If you don't understand something, ask your Veterinarian. Follow directions exactly, using latex gloves if possible. Then wash your hands. On cats, use only products labeled for cats. Store products away from food and out of children's reach.
Nevertheless, it is critical for pet owners to approach flea prevention with the three-prong attack. That means you cannot take care of or apply prevention to your pet and believe you're going to win the flea battle. Pet owners must put forward a reliable effort by treating their pet, yard and home.
FLEAS
There are 5 types of Fleas: FleaXenopsylla Cheopis, FleaEchidnophaga Gallinacea, FleaPulex Irritans, FleaCtenocephalides Felis,and FleaCtenocephalides Canis The most ordinary flea is Ctenocephalides felis, or simply known as the cat flea, though it definitely does not separate among the canine, feline or humans species. The cat flea is completely shaped for its mission: to latch onto a warm body and suck its blood. The entomological comparable of Superman, the flea is capable of jumping as high as 13 feet and therefore has no trouble leaping on to tall dogs in a single bound! Small dogs and cats are no challenge at all.
TICKS
The most common Ticks: TickIxodes scapularis (Deer Tick), TickRhipicephalus sanguineus (Brown Dog Tick), TickDermacentor variabilis (American Dog Tick), TickAmblyomma americanum (Lone Star Tick),and TickDermacentor andersoni (Rocky Mountain Wood Tic North America is home to quite a few tick species including: the deer tick, the western black-legged tick, the Lone Star tick, the Rocky Mountain wood tick and the American dog tick. The diseases that ticks cause and spread are horrible for both humans and pets, and serious cases can even be deadly, so do not take these bloodsuckers lightly.
Some of the more well known diseases associated with ticks includes Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever.
FLEA INFESTATION
The flea is a frequent problem for pets as well as their owners. As if flea bites aren't bad enough, some pets are "flea allergic" and build up harsh itching with even trivial infestations of fleas. This occurs because the animal becomes hypersensitive to the antigens in flea saliva. The best approach is to kill the flea and prevent its return. Like all parasites, fleas create a health-hazard to your pet (and to you), and can make him miserable. These annoying pests can be treated and prevented. Flea control and prevention is easier and safer than ever. The old-style, toxic products containing organophosphates, pyrethrins and permethrins can still be found over the counter, but today's most efficient products for your pet are topical treatments available from your veterinarian. Remember, you want to get a product that is safe for your picky pet and unsafe only to the fleas. Examples of good and safe products for your pets include Frontline Spray, Frontline Plus, Capstar and Advantage. What to Watch For: Itching, Chewing and Licking,Staring, anxious expression, flea dirt (looks like black pepper on the skin),skin lesions such as moist dermatitis, and presence of fleas, Treatment Treatment for fleas may be reliant on the following: the amount of infestation; whether you have both cats and dogs; the time of the year; area of contact (yard vs. park); and whether your pet has an allergy to the fleas. Many products are obtainable for the treatment of flea infestations. All products have advantages and disadvantages and may or may not be secure to use with other products. Some of the over-the-counter powders sprays and collars. In tough cases, a complete flea control program may be needed that involves treatment of your pet, yard and house.
TICK INFESTATION
Tick infestation is the existence and attachment of a tick, a blood sucking parasite. Direct contact with ticks regularly results in tick infestation. As well, ingestion of ticks can happen when the dog grooms. Tick infestations are more widespread in dogs than cats. There is no age or breed fondness, although individuals who spend more time outdoors and who are in direct contact with ticks are more often affected, such as hunting breeds. Ticks may emerge as a small dark speck on your pet's fur, or in an attached, puffy state, may appear as small growths or raisins. Ticks are essential agents of disease transmission. Although not all ticks carry disease, it is important to note that certain ones do. Signs connected with certain tick-borne diseases (borreliosis, ehrlichiosis, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, Lyme and others) differ with the organ system affected. Treatment Ticks should be detached as soon as possible to reduce the amount of pathogen (disease producing organism) transmitted. To do this, grasp the tick close to the skin and pull gently, normally with tweezers, and never with your bare hand.
Tick collars or products applied topically may act to prevent connection of new ticks and to promote detachment of ticks already attached. Ticks may be killed by spraying, dipping, bathing, or powdering affected individuals with appropriate tick-killing products Ticks belong to the arachnid family, which also includes spiders. Ticks may not be as widespread as fleas in a lot of areas, but they can bring serious problems in the form of diseases that can be transmitted to people as well as pets.
TREATING THE ENVIRONMENT
Keep in mind that in addition to treating fleas and ticks on your pet, you also need to treat your pet's environment, indoors and out. Many indoor products contain both an adulticide (permethrins and pyrethrins) and ingredients to kill the eggs and larvae (Nylar and Methoprene). Features to Consider in Flea and Tick Medications: Size/dosage, Effect (do you want more than one effect e.g. fleas/ticks/heartworms), Presentation: liquid, shampoo, dip, collars, spot-on, tablets, oral solutions, Safety, Efficacy, Ingredients, Cost, Guarantee, Waterproof, and frequency of Administration, Safety Tips for Using Pet Flea and Tick Medications: Always read label instructions on any flea and tick medication before administering to your pet. Review age and weight of your pet before application or dosage of any dog flea and tick medication. Give all dog flea and tick medication as directed. If your Veterinarian recommends year round treatment, follow their instructions.
Flea and Tick medication products labeled for another animal types should not be given to another pet (NEVER give your cat products labeled for your dog). Using Flea and Tick Products: Read the entire label before use. If you don't understand something, ask your Veterinarian. Follow directions exactly, using latex gloves if possible. Then wash your hands. On cats, use only products labeled for cats. Store products away from food and out of children's reach.
Design for Exciting Indoor and Outdoor Exercise Area
Pets become lazy when they are enclosed for most part of the day. They would be unable to move around and exercise in a cage. If there is more than one guinea pig in the cage, movement in the cage becomes very difficult.
If you want your pet to be happy and healthy, you would need to provide it with some space, where it can run and play with its companions. It would be advisable for you to design for an exciting indoor and outdoor exercise area, where the pigs could indulge in some sort of activity.
Guinea pigs are social animals and in their natural habitat, indulge in lot of playful activity. When they are kept locked in cages they become withdrawn and in some cases it could also lead to sickness. The guinea pigs could also become overweight, if they do not get any time and space to play and exercise.
Overweight guinea pigs have a number of health problems, which includes heart problems, diabetics and respiratory problems to name just a few. If you want to avoid all these health problems and keep your pet healthy, you would need to have an exciting indoor and outdoor exercise area, where they can indulge in activities, which will keep them healthy.
You do not need a very big space for your pets to play. The space requirement would vary depending on the number of guinea pigs that you have as pets. If you have more than two pigs, you would probably require a bigger space, which would accommodate all their playful activity.
You can have the play area either indoors or outdoors depending on the availability of space in your home. It would be advisable for you to ensure that the play area is safe. It would be a joy seeing your pet playing and enjoying itself.
If you want your pet to be happy and healthy, you would need to provide it with some space, where it can run and play with its companions. It would be advisable for you to design for an exciting indoor and outdoor exercise area, where the pigs could indulge in some sort of activity.
Guinea pigs are social animals and in their natural habitat, indulge in lot of playful activity. When they are kept locked in cages they become withdrawn and in some cases it could also lead to sickness. The guinea pigs could also become overweight, if they do not get any time and space to play and exercise.
Overweight guinea pigs have a number of health problems, which includes heart problems, diabetics and respiratory problems to name just a few. If you want to avoid all these health problems and keep your pet healthy, you would need to have an exciting indoor and outdoor exercise area, where they can indulge in activities, which will keep them healthy.
You do not need a very big space for your pets to play. The space requirement would vary depending on the number of guinea pigs that you have as pets. If you have more than two pigs, you would probably require a bigger space, which would accommodate all their playful activity.
You can have the play area either indoors or outdoors depending on the availability of space in your home. It would be advisable for you to ensure that the play area is safe. It would be a joy seeing your pet playing and enjoying itself.
Guess What's Feeding Off Your Pet?
We adore our pets. In return they accept and love us for who we are, even if we've had a bad day at the office, not put on the right eyeliner, are hours late to feed them or are distracted with other thoughts when they want our attention.
Humans are exceptionally good at looking after their pets when there's something wrong with them. Or at least we think we are. The trouble is that, even with the animals best interests at heart, pet owners too often rush to the vet for minor ailments and the resultant treatment could be the proverbial sledgehammer cracking a nut. In most cases preventive treatment would considerably cut down on a number of unnecessary health scares every year.
The first thing you need to have a look at is the food you are giving your pet, because many pet foods manufacturers use unpardonable ingredients as filler. Most household cats are fed on only dried pellets but when did you last see cats in the wild foraging for dried foods?
Parasites in animals
All animals have internal and external parasites. Internal parasites live in the intestines, bloodstream, joints muscle tissue and the brain. External parasites such as fleas, ticks, mites and lice live on or just under the skin. Internal parasites include intestinal worms as well as protozoa such as giardia, often ingested from contaminated water supplies. All parasites can cause discomfort, illness and even death.
The incidence of parasites in animals is high although it depends on the animal. Domestic pets that forage for mice, birds and other such wildlife will ingest parasites from their prey. The danger is that these parasites can be passed on to their owners in a variety of ways. How many children play in sandpits where dogs or cats have left their calling card? Or how many people are repeatedly licked on the face by a friendly pet? How many people don't scrub their fingernails before eating?
How can a parasite possibly live inside your body? The answer is simple. The purpose of a parasite is to not make itself known. Parasites are very adept at evading a response from the immune system. They live undetected because once they are revealed, something will be done to eliminate them. Parasites have an innate ability to survive and reproduce. This is the purpose of any organism on this planet. Although this may sound simplistic it can make life for humans very difficult.
If you know how to recognize and interpret the symptoms, the presence of a parasite can be established easily. In humans this can manifest as low energy levels, health conditions, skin rashes, pains, frequent colds, flu and constipation. The list goes on and on. The key is to question these symptoms rather than think such afflictions are commonplace.
In his book, "Animals Parasitic in Man." by Geoffrey Lapage, states: "There is no part of the human body, nor indeed, any part of the bodies of the hosts of parasitic animals in general, which is not visited by some kind of parasitic animal at some time or another, during their life histories." In short parasites can migrate to any part of your body. No organ is immune from their infestation.
Parasites that regularly affect animals include microscopic protozoans, a host of migratory worms and arthropod parasites such as mites, ticks, lice, fleas and even some spiders.
Hookworm infection occurs when larvae in the soil penetrate the pet's skin, move into the bloodstream, and eventually travel to the intestine. Adult worms mature in the wall of the intestine and feed on blood from the intestinal lining, sometimes causing serious anemia.
Roundworm infections of dogs and cats occur when microscopic worm eggs present in the soil are eaten. The eggs develop through larval stages in the gut; some larvae penetrate the intestinal wall, migrate to the lungs and are coughed up then re-swallowed, after which they re-enter the small intestine where they mature into adult worms. Roundworms compete with your pet for food, causing malnutrition.
Roundworm enter their host by ingestion; hookworm by active penetration of the skin; the heartworm enters its dog host with the help of a mosquito vector. Microscopic larvae enter the blood along with mosquito saliva when an infected mosquito bites a dog. The larvae use the blood stream to carry it right into to the heart where it matures, infesting the heart's chambers and lodging in the veins that enter the heart.
Graeme Dinnen has worked with parasites in humans and animals for the past fifteen years. To him they are unquestionably the underlying cause of many poor health conditions that are mis-diagnosed.
Humans are exceptionally good at looking after their pets when there's something wrong with them. Or at least we think we are. The trouble is that, even with the animals best interests at heart, pet owners too often rush to the vet for minor ailments and the resultant treatment could be the proverbial sledgehammer cracking a nut. In most cases preventive treatment would considerably cut down on a number of unnecessary health scares every year.
The first thing you need to have a look at is the food you are giving your pet, because many pet foods manufacturers use unpardonable ingredients as filler. Most household cats are fed on only dried pellets but when did you last see cats in the wild foraging for dried foods?
Parasites in animals
All animals have internal and external parasites. Internal parasites live in the intestines, bloodstream, joints muscle tissue and the brain. External parasites such as fleas, ticks, mites and lice live on or just under the skin. Internal parasites include intestinal worms as well as protozoa such as giardia, often ingested from contaminated water supplies. All parasites can cause discomfort, illness and even death.
The incidence of parasites in animals is high although it depends on the animal. Domestic pets that forage for mice, birds and other such wildlife will ingest parasites from their prey. The danger is that these parasites can be passed on to their owners in a variety of ways. How many children play in sandpits where dogs or cats have left their calling card? Or how many people are repeatedly licked on the face by a friendly pet? How many people don't scrub their fingernails before eating?
How can a parasite possibly live inside your body? The answer is simple. The purpose of a parasite is to not make itself known. Parasites are very adept at evading a response from the immune system. They live undetected because once they are revealed, something will be done to eliminate them. Parasites have an innate ability to survive and reproduce. This is the purpose of any organism on this planet. Although this may sound simplistic it can make life for humans very difficult.
If you know how to recognize and interpret the symptoms, the presence of a parasite can be established easily. In humans this can manifest as low energy levels, health conditions, skin rashes, pains, frequent colds, flu and constipation. The list goes on and on. The key is to question these symptoms rather than think such afflictions are commonplace.
In his book, "Animals Parasitic in Man." by Geoffrey Lapage, states: "There is no part of the human body, nor indeed, any part of the bodies of the hosts of parasitic animals in general, which is not visited by some kind of parasitic animal at some time or another, during their life histories." In short parasites can migrate to any part of your body. No organ is immune from their infestation.
Parasites that regularly affect animals include microscopic protozoans, a host of migratory worms and arthropod parasites such as mites, ticks, lice, fleas and even some spiders.
Hookworm infection occurs when larvae in the soil penetrate the pet's skin, move into the bloodstream, and eventually travel to the intestine. Adult worms mature in the wall of the intestine and feed on blood from the intestinal lining, sometimes causing serious anemia.
Roundworm infections of dogs and cats occur when microscopic worm eggs present in the soil are eaten. The eggs develop through larval stages in the gut; some larvae penetrate the intestinal wall, migrate to the lungs and are coughed up then re-swallowed, after which they re-enter the small intestine where they mature into adult worms. Roundworms compete with your pet for food, causing malnutrition.
Roundworm enter their host by ingestion; hookworm by active penetration of the skin; the heartworm enters its dog host with the help of a mosquito vector. Microscopic larvae enter the blood along with mosquito saliva when an infected mosquito bites a dog. The larvae use the blood stream to carry it right into to the heart where it matures, infesting the heart's chambers and lodging in the veins that enter the heart.
Graeme Dinnen has worked with parasites in humans and animals for the past fifteen years. To him they are unquestionably the underlying cause of many poor health conditions that are mis-diagnosed.
Pet Setting Home Business - Market Yourself Locally
Now that you've started your business, you realize that some friends who promised that they would you use when you were putting together you business plan are not using you as often as you projected.
You've built it and they are not coming. Thankfully, you've thrown your self into this as a full time job and you may remember from school how marketing is a very important and crucial tool to promote a business, especially a new business.
With marketing, you'll need to find your target audience and that means you need to find out if you already have a niche or create one. That means, do you provide any special assitance that makes you stand out from your competitors, is the way you differentiate yourself from PETCO is that you are more price sensitive or is it that you are offering pet group activities, more exercise time and a quieter setting.
"I am a firm believer that you could open a specialized pet business across the street from a PETCO or a PetSmart with a truly specialized focus and be highly successful," says William Lechtner, a San Diego-based industry consultant with deep experience in all sizes of pet businesses and across merchandising categories.
Pet lovers what to know that their pet is going to be safe, taken care of and better of with you then spending time home alone awaiting their care taker to come home. Are they going to be social, get lots of exercise and be fed a proper nutrition?
After you started marketing base on your niche, it is crucial to ask you current clients for feed back. Everyone like to give other advice on how they should be running your business, and believe or not you will find that your best ideas will come from you customers. Whether it comes from them verbally, electronically or through a 2-minute written survey.
By taking their suggestions and finding out which ones can be addressed the quickest, usually from least expensive first and time consuming, you will also start getting new clients through word of mouth.
You've built it and they are not coming. Thankfully, you've thrown your self into this as a full time job and you may remember from school how marketing is a very important and crucial tool to promote a business, especially a new business.
With marketing, you'll need to find your target audience and that means you need to find out if you already have a niche or create one. That means, do you provide any special assitance that makes you stand out from your competitors, is the way you differentiate yourself from PETCO is that you are more price sensitive or is it that you are offering pet group activities, more exercise time and a quieter setting.
"I am a firm believer that you could open a specialized pet business across the street from a PETCO or a PetSmart with a truly specialized focus and be highly successful," says William Lechtner, a San Diego-based industry consultant with deep experience in all sizes of pet businesses and across merchandising categories.
Pet lovers what to know that their pet is going to be safe, taken care of and better of with you then spending time home alone awaiting their care taker to come home. Are they going to be social, get lots of exercise and be fed a proper nutrition?
After you started marketing base on your niche, it is crucial to ask you current clients for feed back. Everyone like to give other advice on how they should be running your business, and believe or not you will find that your best ideas will come from you customers. Whether it comes from them verbally, electronically or through a 2-minute written survey.
By taking their suggestions and finding out which ones can be addressed the quickest, usually from least expensive first and time consuming, you will also start getting new clients through word of mouth.
5 Things Most People Who Start a Home Pet Sitting Business Forget
Be aware, before you start counting your neighborhoods pets to see how much money you will make, consider this list of 5 things most people who start a home pet sitting business forget:
1. Business Plan
Every business no matter how profitable your friends tell you needs a business plan. Yes, according to the American Pet Products Association's 2009/2010 survey, 62% of U.S. households own a pet; you need to do the leg work to find out if you are in a neighborhood that has that excess cash.
2. Select a Pet Category
Yes, as much as you want to take any paying customers, there are some cats, some dogs and some exotic animals that don't mix well. As you may have learned from experience, that some are not going to get along with others.
3. Select a Niche
Are you going to be a high-end at home business, where your clients will be able to log in via the web to see their beloved pet playing around or taking a nap, or are you going to be the affordable solution? You can't be all things to all people.
4. Personalities
You will have to figure a system to interview your potential clients (the pets) to see how they would get along with others or have a space for those clients with behavioral issues.
5. Make Sure You Have the Space
Space is crucial especially if (as mentioned above) you'll need to separate pets based on behavior or size. If customers are going to be bringing their dogs who weigh over 75 pounds. Dogs need exercise about an hour twice a day, and they need an area to play with other dogs.
1. Business Plan
Every business no matter how profitable your friends tell you needs a business plan. Yes, according to the American Pet Products Association's 2009/2010 survey, 62% of U.S. households own a pet; you need to do the leg work to find out if you are in a neighborhood that has that excess cash.
2. Select a Pet Category
Yes, as much as you want to take any paying customers, there are some cats, some dogs and some exotic animals that don't mix well. As you may have learned from experience, that some are not going to get along with others.
3. Select a Niche
Are you going to be a high-end at home business, where your clients will be able to log in via the web to see their beloved pet playing around or taking a nap, or are you going to be the affordable solution? You can't be all things to all people.
4. Personalities
You will have to figure a system to interview your potential clients (the pets) to see how they would get along with others or have a space for those clients with behavioral issues.
5. Make Sure You Have the Space
Space is crucial especially if (as mentioned above) you'll need to separate pets based on behavior or size. If customers are going to be bringing their dogs who weigh over 75 pounds. Dogs need exercise about an hour twice a day, and they need an area to play with other dogs.
Need Help Choosing a Vet?
A good vet is vital to the health and happiness of your animal; it is important you feel comfortable with your choice of vet as they will be responsible for the well being of your animal.
The most important thing to check when choosing a veterinary practice is that they are accredited by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS). All accredited practices are subject to rigorous checks every few years by a qualified inspector; random spot checks also occur in between these to make sure practices are up to the highest standards. This is all part of the RCVS Practice Standards Scheme which accredits veterinary practices by the services and specialities they offer giving you peace of mind when it comes to the treatment of your animal.
Vets are able to offer professional advice on everything from choosing the right animal to their exercise and diet. It is advised you find a vet in your local area before you actually purchase your pet; also recommends you take your animal for a general health check after buying. Although the RCVS Practice Standards Scheme is in place to provide quality assurance, if you're concerned, take the opportunity to visit several surgeries in your area and meet the staff so you're confident in their services.
It is incredibly important you find a local vet and also check whether they offer 24 hour emergency care. If your local surgery does not offer 24 hour emergency care, find one that does and make sure you can contact them even if you're pet is not registered there... just in case the worst happens out of surgery hours!
The most important thing to check when choosing a veterinary practice is that they are accredited by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS). All accredited practices are subject to rigorous checks every few years by a qualified inspector; random spot checks also occur in between these to make sure practices are up to the highest standards. This is all part of the RCVS Practice Standards Scheme which accredits veterinary practices by the services and specialities they offer giving you peace of mind when it comes to the treatment of your animal.
Vets are able to offer professional advice on everything from choosing the right animal to their exercise and diet. It is advised you find a vet in your local area before you actually purchase your pet; also recommends you take your animal for a general health check after buying. Although the RCVS Practice Standards Scheme is in place to provide quality assurance, if you're concerned, take the opportunity to visit several surgeries in your area and meet the staff so you're confident in their services.
It is incredibly important you find a local vet and also check whether they offer 24 hour emergency care. If your local surgery does not offer 24 hour emergency care, find one that does and make sure you can contact them even if you're pet is not registered there... just in case the worst happens out of surgery hours!
Pet Photographer Warns: Think Before Giving A Pet As A Present
When I was a child, my parents presented me with a big box on Christmas morning. I opened it. It was empty. The contents, a rescue puppy, had escaped somehow prior to the gifts grand entrance.
Over the next month, I grew very fond of the small puppy, and I found its occasional hiccuping to be odd and quirky. Then, one day, the puppy disappeared.
Years later, I was told that the puppy had distemper. My mother repeated several times over the ensuing years that she should have known to take the puppy to the vet, but she had never heard of distemper. It affected me. It obviously affected my Mother.
T'is the season for giving presents, and many people may be considering giving a pet. Puppies and kittens are unbelievably adorable. I know. That's why I love to photograph them. That's why I have been parent to a few. Their playfulness is beyond cute, and they do so many things making people sigh, "Awww!"
Unfortunately, that image is all too often the only image that the potential gift giver sees in their minds eye as they consider giving a puppy or kitten to a child who can't even remember to brush their teeth! A gift to any person of any age is about commitment.
So, here is a reality check from a pet professional:
Puppies poop and chew, kittens sharpen their claws... things to consider before giving "the gift that keeps on living"... Kittens and puppies are living, breathing, and most importantly growing things. They grow bigger (and bigger and in some cases still bigger) and they get older.
Think about this:
- The average indoor cat lives 15-20+ years. Mine lived 19.
- Large breed dogs live 8+ years
- Smaller breeds dogs live 15+ years.
So, a six or seven year old child may be headed off to college and their parents will be left to care for a geriatric pet, with all the health issues and expense that goes along with ever increasing age. The tender care and feeding of a new furry addition is a family effort.
For adult humans, lifestyle can be an issue. In our cat-controlled-household, were we to get a dog, we could have issues. I would want a lap dog, my husband would like a dog with which he could jog. The image of my husband dragging a Chihuahua or Doxie behind him is almost as funny as a Retriever sitting on my lap. We travel, so bigger dogs present more challenges and less options for pet sitters. Neither of us is allergic, but many people are, so gifting a pet could become a really bad human health concern. A busy person's daily schedule could leave the pet alone for hours. That's not cool. All things to consider before gifting a pet.
Pets can be expensive. REMEMBER THEY LIVE, THEY EAT, THEY GET SICK, AND IN SOME CASES THEY GROW AND GROW. Without going too deeply into the totals, the dog that my husband wants to run with could eat 40 or more pounds of dog food per month. Vet care, food, pet training (maybe), and grooming (if required) cost money.
A pet is a very personal choice. Pets and people have personalities. The gesture of giving a pet while charming may bring a personality with irreconcilable differences. Do your research. If you're a low-key kind of individual you probably don't want to bring a Jack Russell Terrier into the mix. Likewise, if you're a get up and go kind of guy, an English Bulldog is probably not going to be your ideal running partner.
Don't get me wrong. I love pets. I ADORE PETS! Pets are wonderful companions. They love unconditionally. Giving the right pet to an older person may be a perfect pick-them-up. Then, there are the folks who have lost a pet. The trouble may be figuring out how much time is needed for the healing, but a pet with the right timing may be the perfect remedy.
A puppy and kitten are not a toy that can be returned. Pets do not teach responsibility. That means that the tender care and feeding of the new addition should be and probably will be a family effort. Coming from a person whose livelihood is pet dependent, the following advice may seem odd: THINK BEFORE GIVING A PET AS A PRESENT!
Oahu, Hawaii Pet Photographer Deb McGuire focuses solely on pet photography & pets with their people. Deb was voted best Hawaii Pet Photographer. Hawaii Pet Photos provides on-location pet photography services throughout Oahu and the world.
Over the next month, I grew very fond of the small puppy, and I found its occasional hiccuping to be odd and quirky. Then, one day, the puppy disappeared.
Years later, I was told that the puppy had distemper. My mother repeated several times over the ensuing years that she should have known to take the puppy to the vet, but she had never heard of distemper. It affected me. It obviously affected my Mother.
T'is the season for giving presents, and many people may be considering giving a pet. Puppies and kittens are unbelievably adorable. I know. That's why I love to photograph them. That's why I have been parent to a few. Their playfulness is beyond cute, and they do so many things making people sigh, "Awww!"
Unfortunately, that image is all too often the only image that the potential gift giver sees in their minds eye as they consider giving a puppy or kitten to a child who can't even remember to brush their teeth! A gift to any person of any age is about commitment.
So, here is a reality check from a pet professional:
Puppies poop and chew, kittens sharpen their claws... things to consider before giving "the gift that keeps on living"... Kittens and puppies are living, breathing, and most importantly growing things. They grow bigger (and bigger and in some cases still bigger) and they get older.
Think about this:
- The average indoor cat lives 15-20+ years. Mine lived 19.
- Large breed dogs live 8+ years
- Smaller breeds dogs live 15+ years.
So, a six or seven year old child may be headed off to college and their parents will be left to care for a geriatric pet, with all the health issues and expense that goes along with ever increasing age. The tender care and feeding of a new furry addition is a family effort.
For adult humans, lifestyle can be an issue. In our cat-controlled-household, were we to get a dog, we could have issues. I would want a lap dog, my husband would like a dog with which he could jog. The image of my husband dragging a Chihuahua or Doxie behind him is almost as funny as a Retriever sitting on my lap. We travel, so bigger dogs present more challenges and less options for pet sitters. Neither of us is allergic, but many people are, so gifting a pet could become a really bad human health concern. A busy person's daily schedule could leave the pet alone for hours. That's not cool. All things to consider before gifting a pet.
Pets can be expensive. REMEMBER THEY LIVE, THEY EAT, THEY GET SICK, AND IN SOME CASES THEY GROW AND GROW. Without going too deeply into the totals, the dog that my husband wants to run with could eat 40 or more pounds of dog food per month. Vet care, food, pet training (maybe), and grooming (if required) cost money.
A pet is a very personal choice. Pets and people have personalities. The gesture of giving a pet while charming may bring a personality with irreconcilable differences. Do your research. If you're a low-key kind of individual you probably don't want to bring a Jack Russell Terrier into the mix. Likewise, if you're a get up and go kind of guy, an English Bulldog is probably not going to be your ideal running partner.
Don't get me wrong. I love pets. I ADORE PETS! Pets are wonderful companions. They love unconditionally. Giving the right pet to an older person may be a perfect pick-them-up. Then, there are the folks who have lost a pet. The trouble may be figuring out how much time is needed for the healing, but a pet with the right timing may be the perfect remedy.
A puppy and kitten are not a toy that can be returned. Pets do not teach responsibility. That means that the tender care and feeding of the new addition should be and probably will be a family effort. Coming from a person whose livelihood is pet dependent, the following advice may seem odd: THINK BEFORE GIVING A PET AS A PRESENT!
Oahu, Hawaii Pet Photographer Deb McGuire focuses solely on pet photography & pets with their people. Deb was voted best Hawaii Pet Photographer. Hawaii Pet Photos provides on-location pet photography services throughout Oahu and the world.
Pet First Aid Kits
Even though you and your family may have a great first aid kit, it probably isn't going to be of any use when your pet gets hurt. Your pet is going to need to have his own first aid kit if an emergency should happen to arise.
Before you can find a durable, watertight container for your pet's first aid kit, you need to know what to keep inside of it so that you know what size of container you need. With this in mind, here are some of the things that you are going to want to make sure to place inside of your pet first aid kit include:
- The phone number for your veterinarian
- The phone number for animal poison control: 1-888-426-4435
- Sterile gauze pads (act as Band-Aids)
- Gauze bandage rolls (for muzzling)
- Flour, baking powder or corn starch (to stop toenails from bleeding)
- A small oral syringe (for administering medications)
- Cotton or clean towels (for cleaning wounds)
- A rectal thermometer and mineral oil
- Benadryl liquid 25mg (for allergic reactions or mild sedation)
- Bayer children's aspirin 81mg (for pain and fevers)
- Hydrogen peroxide (for inducing vomiting)
- Imodium AD (for diarrhea)
- Pepto-Bismol (for vomiting and diarrhea)
- Cortisone cream (for rashes, bug bites, abrasions and cuts)
- Honey or karo syrup (for hypoglycemia)
- Eyewash or saline solution (for washing out eyes)
Once you have gathered all of these supplies together you will know just how big of a container you are going to need. Oftentimes these things will fit inside of either a plastic food container or a tackle box.
You may also wish to speak to your veterinarian to make sure that you have all of the things that you need in case of an emergency. Once assembled, make sure that you take a look through your first aid kit at least every six months to make sure that you still have everything that you need and that none of the medications have expired.
Whenever you plan to take your pet with you on a trip, make sure that you take a few minutes to modify their first aid kit. The first thing that you will want to do here is research the environment of the area that you will be traveling to. You can make a phone call to friends or a local veterinarian to find out about any poisonous plants, snakes or extreme temperatures that you may encounter while there.
Remember that if your pet does get injured it isn't a human and it may need to be muzzled in order to keep it from biting you while you are performing first aid. It is also a good idea to contact your local chapter of the American Red Cross to find out if they offer any first aid or CPR classes for animals. Hopefully you will never need to use any of this information but if you do, at least you will be ready.
Before you can find a durable, watertight container for your pet's first aid kit, you need to know what to keep inside of it so that you know what size of container you need. With this in mind, here are some of the things that you are going to want to make sure to place inside of your pet first aid kit include:
- The phone number for your veterinarian
- The phone number for animal poison control: 1-888-426-4435
- Sterile gauze pads (act as Band-Aids)
- Gauze bandage rolls (for muzzling)
- Flour, baking powder or corn starch (to stop toenails from bleeding)
- A small oral syringe (for administering medications)
- Cotton or clean towels (for cleaning wounds)
- A rectal thermometer and mineral oil
- Benadryl liquid 25mg (for allergic reactions or mild sedation)
- Bayer children's aspirin 81mg (for pain and fevers)
- Hydrogen peroxide (for inducing vomiting)
- Imodium AD (for diarrhea)
- Pepto-Bismol (for vomiting and diarrhea)
- Cortisone cream (for rashes, bug bites, abrasions and cuts)
- Honey or karo syrup (for hypoglycemia)
- Eyewash or saline solution (for washing out eyes)
Once you have gathered all of these supplies together you will know just how big of a container you are going to need. Oftentimes these things will fit inside of either a plastic food container or a tackle box.
You may also wish to speak to your veterinarian to make sure that you have all of the things that you need in case of an emergency. Once assembled, make sure that you take a look through your first aid kit at least every six months to make sure that you still have everything that you need and that none of the medications have expired.
Whenever you plan to take your pet with you on a trip, make sure that you take a few minutes to modify their first aid kit. The first thing that you will want to do here is research the environment of the area that you will be traveling to. You can make a phone call to friends or a local veterinarian to find out about any poisonous plants, snakes or extreme temperatures that you may encounter while there.
Remember that if your pet does get injured it isn't a human and it may need to be muzzled in order to keep it from biting you while you are performing first aid. It is also a good idea to contact your local chapter of the American Red Cross to find out if they offer any first aid or CPR classes for animals. Hopefully you will never need to use any of this information but if you do, at least you will be ready.
Ferret Food and Diet
Ferrets are quite amusing mammals when it comes to food and diet. (and believe me!) If you ask five separate parents you will receive five very different answers on how to fuel your ferret. The most crucial part is just reacting, if your baby is constantly getting ill from a particular diet, obviously it's time to change.
Ferrets are by definition obligate carnivores, with the key word being "carnivore", this means that their diet should be primarily composed of meat. Along with the fact that ferrets don't digest plant matter well anyway, they thrive on
high protein (30 - 50%) (and must come from meat products, not plants)
high fat (20 - 30%)
low fiber
and low carbohydrate diets.>
They have a quick metabolism which keeps them very healthy and slender. Because of this, they eat very often ( every 3-5 hours) which means that as an owner you should always have proper foods ready and stocked up.
In the past you had to feed your ferret a cat, or mink diet along with some raw meats and other items. While this wasn't miserable, it was wasn't perfect and led companies to start making ferret food exclusively. You can pick up ferret food at any pet shop or even some internet websites.
A common theme that i have noticed in my own personal experience is that fish is a bad idea. While some similar animals (cats, minks, fox's) can thrive on fish, ferrets don't seem to digest it quite the same and it can lead to malnutrition. Try and stick to other raw meats like chicken, turkey, and some beef.
Just as a final few notes, make sure to always have an abundance of fresh water readily available for your ferret. Treats should be given very sparingly to make sure you pet is healthy, and make sure if you give a protein based snack, it should be from a meat product.
Ferrets are by definition obligate carnivores, with the key word being "carnivore", this means that their diet should be primarily composed of meat. Along with the fact that ferrets don't digest plant matter well anyway, they thrive on
high protein (30 - 50%) (and must come from meat products, not plants)
high fat (20 - 30%)
low fiber
and low carbohydrate diets.>
They have a quick metabolism which keeps them very healthy and slender. Because of this, they eat very often ( every 3-5 hours) which means that as an owner you should always have proper foods ready and stocked up.
In the past you had to feed your ferret a cat, or mink diet along with some raw meats and other items. While this wasn't miserable, it was wasn't perfect and led companies to start making ferret food exclusively. You can pick up ferret food at any pet shop or even some internet websites.
A common theme that i have noticed in my own personal experience is that fish is a bad idea. While some similar animals (cats, minks, fox's) can thrive on fish, ferrets don't seem to digest it quite the same and it can lead to malnutrition. Try and stick to other raw meats like chicken, turkey, and some beef.
Just as a final few notes, make sure to always have an abundance of fresh water readily available for your ferret. Treats should be given very sparingly to make sure you pet is healthy, and make sure if you give a protein based snack, it should be from a meat product.
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
11 Tips to Live Happily With Your Pet
If pet owners were capable of being totally objective (and most are not), they would not allow their pets to live in the house with them based on the issue of cleanliness alone. However, despite the fact that many of the 45 million dog owners and 77 million cat owners know absolutely that their pets track in all kinds of contaminants on their paws, they continue to welcome their pets into their homes. Additionally, animals shed hair and dander, "do their thing" on the carpet and cough up an occasional hair ball. Still, most pet owners regard their pets as a member of the family. To keep pets from completely taking over the household and to maintain a degree of order and cleanliness, read the following suggestions:
· Wash the pet's bedding on a weekly basis. If you allow your pet to sleep on the bed with you, wash your bed linens more often. Because bedding can often harbor unseen fleas or dust mites, be sure to wash all bedding in hot water.
· Keep your pets from sitting directly on furniture upholstery. If you can't keep them off the furniture, cover sofas and chairs with sheets or blankets to protect from stains and odor.
· Buy chairs and sofas that are free from decorative skirting. Attractive as it is when the furniture is new, this skirting will take a beating over time with dogs and cats rubbing against it.
· Try to limit your pets' presence to one or two rooms of the house and cordon off the rest of the house. Doing so will minimize the wear and tear that pets inevitably inflict on a home and, therefore, the maintenance and cleaning that you will have to do.
· If your family members have to wipe their feet when they enter the house, the pets should have to do the same. Keep a doormat or thick towel inside the door to clean muddy feet before pets bound into the house and jump on the furniture.
· If your pet roams the neighborhood or nearby fields, regular baths are in order. Dogs generally like bath time, but cats? Not so much.
· Regular brushing will minimize (but not eliminate) the hair you'll have to clean from the carpet or upholstery.
· When taking your dog for a walk, always carry and use a bag to scoop up their "business." Biodegradable bags are best since they are environmentally responsible.
· For pets with fleas, avoid drops and flea collars. Instead, look to natural remedies for a solution to this problem. Try mixing any of the following with water and spray onto your pet's fur: clove, citrus or eucalyptus oils. Try garlic as well.
· Avoid giving your pets play toys made out of any sort of plastic or PVC. They're unhealthy for humans and pets. Most pet-supply stores carry "green" chew toys which are much healthier.
· Maintain an organic, environmentally responsible lawn care regimen. This includes avoiding synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides, any of which can cause your pet to become ill or even die.
Shaz has written hundreds of articles online for almost 3 years. Not only does this author specialize in Pets, you can also check out his latest website on Bath Towel Racks which reviews and lists Bath Towel Bar for a place for your bath towel racks, try as much as possible to put it near the bathtub or shower, so that you do not have to stretch so much when you reach for it.
· Wash the pet's bedding on a weekly basis. If you allow your pet to sleep on the bed with you, wash your bed linens more often. Because bedding can often harbor unseen fleas or dust mites, be sure to wash all bedding in hot water.
· Keep your pets from sitting directly on furniture upholstery. If you can't keep them off the furniture, cover sofas and chairs with sheets or blankets to protect from stains and odor.
· Buy chairs and sofas that are free from decorative skirting. Attractive as it is when the furniture is new, this skirting will take a beating over time with dogs and cats rubbing against it.
· Try to limit your pets' presence to one or two rooms of the house and cordon off the rest of the house. Doing so will minimize the wear and tear that pets inevitably inflict on a home and, therefore, the maintenance and cleaning that you will have to do.
· If your family members have to wipe their feet when they enter the house, the pets should have to do the same. Keep a doormat or thick towel inside the door to clean muddy feet before pets bound into the house and jump on the furniture.
· If your pet roams the neighborhood or nearby fields, regular baths are in order. Dogs generally like bath time, but cats? Not so much.
· Regular brushing will minimize (but not eliminate) the hair you'll have to clean from the carpet or upholstery.
· When taking your dog for a walk, always carry and use a bag to scoop up their "business." Biodegradable bags are best since they are environmentally responsible.
· For pets with fleas, avoid drops and flea collars. Instead, look to natural remedies for a solution to this problem. Try mixing any of the following with water and spray onto your pet's fur: clove, citrus or eucalyptus oils. Try garlic as well.
· Avoid giving your pets play toys made out of any sort of plastic or PVC. They're unhealthy for humans and pets. Most pet-supply stores carry "green" chew toys which are much healthier.
· Maintain an organic, environmentally responsible lawn care regimen. This includes avoiding synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides, any of which can cause your pet to become ill or even die.
Shaz has written hundreds of articles online for almost 3 years. Not only does this author specialize in Pets, you can also check out his latest website on Bath Towel Racks which reviews and lists Bath Towel Bar for a place for your bath towel racks, try as much as possible to put it near the bathtub or shower, so that you do not have to stretch so much when you reach for it.
Pet Adoption - Can You Really Afford the Cost of One
People usually can't do without a pet or two in their lives. It just seems to be a pleasure of life that you can expect to deserve - like having children. And yet, as people continue to have their hours cut and to be laid off, they are beginning to question the wisdom of spending the hundreds or even thousands of dollars on their pets each year. A cat or a dog may be a small animal; but some of the biggest costs to deal with pet adoption come from medical care.
The reason people overlook the costs of pet adoption is that no one's comfortable usually, putting it down in dollars and cents when it comes to the love they feel for their little four-legged friends. According to most expert estimates, all found, you can spend about $900 a year on the upkeep of a large dog (and there's an additional $500 or so that you will spend on the pet adoption process itself). Owning a cat they say, can cost nearly as much - about $700 a year. As generous as these numbers seem, as dog and cat owners know, you can spend as much in just one month if there is a health problem that comes up. You take a dog in with an infection, and you can easily spend $500 on tests. There are heartworm pills, flea medicine, a variety of dog foods, pet sitter costs, it's endless.
Actually, if you are dealing with a cat or a dog, you can count yourself lucky. People who buy horses for their children can have their costs run into the tens of thousands. But when your child has her heart set on pet adoption, what is it that you can do? If you live out in the suburbs, the fixed costs of pet adoption can be somewhat affordable if what you have in mind is a pet dog or cat. If your child wants a horse, you had better forget it. What you can do instead is, to let your child have lessons in horse riding at a horse riding school. Or you could lease a horse. That should cut the cost of owning one down to a fraction of what would otherwise be. Before you set up a pet adoption for your child, go down to the local veterinarian's clinic and check out the prices they have for lots of common procedures that need to be performed on pets. If your dog eats something that doesn't agree with his tummy, that'll be $1000 out of your bank right away. If he injures something, that'll be $800 right away. Things have changed; lots of people cannot afford a pet anymore. It is all part of the shrinking lifestyle that we've come to expect in this country.
The reason people overlook the costs of pet adoption is that no one's comfortable usually, putting it down in dollars and cents when it comes to the love they feel for their little four-legged friends. According to most expert estimates, all found, you can spend about $900 a year on the upkeep of a large dog (and there's an additional $500 or so that you will spend on the pet adoption process itself). Owning a cat they say, can cost nearly as much - about $700 a year. As generous as these numbers seem, as dog and cat owners know, you can spend as much in just one month if there is a health problem that comes up. You take a dog in with an infection, and you can easily spend $500 on tests. There are heartworm pills, flea medicine, a variety of dog foods, pet sitter costs, it's endless.
Actually, if you are dealing with a cat or a dog, you can count yourself lucky. People who buy horses for their children can have their costs run into the tens of thousands. But when your child has her heart set on pet adoption, what is it that you can do? If you live out in the suburbs, the fixed costs of pet adoption can be somewhat affordable if what you have in mind is a pet dog or cat. If your child wants a horse, you had better forget it. What you can do instead is, to let your child have lessons in horse riding at a horse riding school. Or you could lease a horse. That should cut the cost of owning one down to a fraction of what would otherwise be. Before you set up a pet adoption for your child, go down to the local veterinarian's clinic and check out the prices they have for lots of common procedures that need to be performed on pets. If your dog eats something that doesn't agree with his tummy, that'll be $1000 out of your bank right away. If he injures something, that'll be $800 right away. Things have changed; lots of people cannot afford a pet anymore. It is all part of the shrinking lifestyle that we've come to expect in this country.
Benefits of Natural Pet Food
Most people know that something labeled "organic" at the grocery store is apt to be far healthier than a comparable product that doesn't bear that distinction. When given the choice, many of us spend the extra dollar or two on the healthy option, especially when we consider that our kids will be consuming the item. But what about our pets? Don't our beloved dogs and cats deserve the same attention to health and quality? They certainly do, which is why natural pet food is becoming increasingly popular.
To be perfectly honest, I'm not sure how my dog could ever choke down the generic chow I used to buy. I couldn't even stand the way it smelled, and can't imagine actually having to eat the stuff. In fact, I had to go through a whole rigmarole about taking a deep breath and holding it in until I filled my dog's bowl. Then I wouldn't allow myself to breathe again until I ran about five feet away from the feeding area and could get fresh air again. Ridiculous, I know, but most commercial dog kibble smells terrible! That was one of the biggest differences I noticed between natural pet food and the other stuff. The smell was a whole lot more appetizing!
There are other benefits to natural pet food, such as health and nutrition. One reason generic chow smells so bad is that it's usually made from castoff ingredients that are deemed unfit for humans. These include waste products from slaughterhouses (such as the hooves, intestines, and udders of animals) and similar by-products. Then there are all the chemical additives and preservatives to consider. Are you comfortable feeding your beloved four-legged companion these things? This kind of feed hardly sounds like something that would extend the life of your cat or dog. I wasn't happy with the information I found, so I made the switch to natural pet food.
Besides the health benefits, which include reduced skin problems, lower incidences of digestive disorders, and higher energy levels, natural pet food can also help extend the life of your precious pooch. It stands to reason if dogs (or cats) have fewer physical ailments and are healthier overall, they will probably live longer. After all, the same thing holds true for people, right? If you maintain a high-quality, all-natural diet you'll certainly be better off than if you indulged in overly processed junk filled with sodium and trans fats. Our pets can't read labels, so it's up to us to make the right choices for them.
I admit that I used to buy the cheapest bag of kibble I could find. Back then I thought all brands were created equal and that it didn't much matter what I fed my dog. But now that I know better, I'm going to stick to natural pet food. The benefits are clearly worth the extra few bucks per bag, so start changing your pet's feeding regimen today.
To be perfectly honest, I'm not sure how my dog could ever choke down the generic chow I used to buy. I couldn't even stand the way it smelled, and can't imagine actually having to eat the stuff. In fact, I had to go through a whole rigmarole about taking a deep breath and holding it in until I filled my dog's bowl. Then I wouldn't allow myself to breathe again until I ran about five feet away from the feeding area and could get fresh air again. Ridiculous, I know, but most commercial dog kibble smells terrible! That was one of the biggest differences I noticed between natural pet food and the other stuff. The smell was a whole lot more appetizing!
There are other benefits to natural pet food, such as health and nutrition. One reason generic chow smells so bad is that it's usually made from castoff ingredients that are deemed unfit for humans. These include waste products from slaughterhouses (such as the hooves, intestines, and udders of animals) and similar by-products. Then there are all the chemical additives and preservatives to consider. Are you comfortable feeding your beloved four-legged companion these things? This kind of feed hardly sounds like something that would extend the life of your cat or dog. I wasn't happy with the information I found, so I made the switch to natural pet food.
Besides the health benefits, which include reduced skin problems, lower incidences of digestive disorders, and higher energy levels, natural pet food can also help extend the life of your precious pooch. It stands to reason if dogs (or cats) have fewer physical ailments and are healthier overall, they will probably live longer. After all, the same thing holds true for people, right? If you maintain a high-quality, all-natural diet you'll certainly be better off than if you indulged in overly processed junk filled with sodium and trans fats. Our pets can't read labels, so it's up to us to make the right choices for them.
I admit that I used to buy the cheapest bag of kibble I could find. Back then I thought all brands were created equal and that it didn't much matter what I fed my dog. But now that I know better, I'm going to stick to natural pet food. The benefits are clearly worth the extra few bucks per bag, so start changing your pet's feeding regimen today.
How To Prepare Your Family For The Adoption Of A Pet
When the time comes for a family to adopt a pet there are a lot of things to be worried about. Chances are the children, and possibly the adults, will be so excited they may forget the responsibility that lies ahead. Pets become a member of the family and while they offer fun and companionship, they also require work. You will need to make changes in your family and in the house to ensure the pet is safe and cared for. The amount of changes will depend on the type of pet you adopt, but regardless of what animal you bring into your home, the entire family must agree to care for the pet, accept it and take responsibility for it. Begin by fixing any problems that currently exist in your home. Call a termite control or pest control company if necessary to rid of any bugs. Pets will be even more aware of problems than humans are, so it is especially important to make sure your home is free of insects and other problems.
When choosing your pet, it is important to decide on an animal that can live comfortably in your space. There is no sense in bonding with an animal that will be uncomfortable in your home. Think carefully about how much space you have and what your lifestyle is like. An animal that requires a lot of attention will need a family who has attention to give. If you are constantly on the go or living in a small space, you need to choose a pet that is low maintenance.
It is important the entire family agree to take responsibility for the pet. It is easy for the family to jump on board with the fun part of pet ownership, but when it comes to the work, suddenly one person gets stuck with it. Instead of taking on the responsibility on your own, divvy up the work of pet ownership among everyone in the family. Each person can clean up, feed, and exercise the pet, regardless of their age or role in the family.
Those adopting pets need outdoor space should make sure they have adequate room and accommodations for the animal. You can walk a dog on a leash, but it is much more convenient to just open the door and let the dog run in a fenced yard. If you are adopting a cat and you want to allow it outside, be sure to leave its claws in so it can protect itself. Some families even walk cats on leashes to protect the animal, but still allow it to enjoy an outdoor experience.
Finally, stock up on the necessities before bringing the pet home. Be sure you have food and water dishes, items needed to potty train the animal, and plenty of nutritious food. Remember, puppies and kittens need special food, so be sure what you purchase offers the appropriate nutrients. Lastly, consider buying some toys and treats for your new pet. They can be helpful in training and create an easier bonding experience with a new animal.
When choosing your pet, it is important to decide on an animal that can live comfortably in your space. There is no sense in bonding with an animal that will be uncomfortable in your home. Think carefully about how much space you have and what your lifestyle is like. An animal that requires a lot of attention will need a family who has attention to give. If you are constantly on the go or living in a small space, you need to choose a pet that is low maintenance.
It is important the entire family agree to take responsibility for the pet. It is easy for the family to jump on board with the fun part of pet ownership, but when it comes to the work, suddenly one person gets stuck with it. Instead of taking on the responsibility on your own, divvy up the work of pet ownership among everyone in the family. Each person can clean up, feed, and exercise the pet, regardless of their age or role in the family.
Those adopting pets need outdoor space should make sure they have adequate room and accommodations for the animal. You can walk a dog on a leash, but it is much more convenient to just open the door and let the dog run in a fenced yard. If you are adopting a cat and you want to allow it outside, be sure to leave its claws in so it can protect itself. Some families even walk cats on leashes to protect the animal, but still allow it to enjoy an outdoor experience.
Finally, stock up on the necessities before bringing the pet home. Be sure you have food and water dishes, items needed to potty train the animal, and plenty of nutritious food. Remember, puppies and kittens need special food, so be sure what you purchase offers the appropriate nutrients. Lastly, consider buying some toys and treats for your new pet. They can be helpful in training and create an easier bonding experience with a new animal.
What You Should Know About Traveling With a Pet
There is nothing more fun than grabbing your pet and taking off on a road trip. Whether you have an extended holiday in mind or a just a couple of days to break up the boredom of city living,it will be good for you and your 4- legged friend... well, your monkey might have only 2 legs but I wouldn't suggest traveling with your monkey. That is just one thing to know when traveling with a pet. Check out more of my suggestions.
NO SURPRISES
Be a responsible pet friendly traveler. You might travel with your dog but I wouldn't take along your exotic animals. If you must, please ask the establishment if that is allowed. You put the establishment in a very embarrassing position. They won't like turning you away but they may have to. Many insurance companies limit the liability to hotels allowing pets. That is why some have weight and breed limits. Always come clean and pick the accommodation that is right for you. This is true of cats as well. Many people are extremely allergic. Therefore if you travel with a cat you will find fewer places to accommodate you and you may end up in a smoking room.
TRAVEL WITH A CRATE
This cuts down on the anxiety of your pet. They much prefer sleeping in their own bedroom. So, bring it along. You will find the hotelier will be very happy with your choice to do so.
ASK UP FRONT
You will want to know if the accommodation you have chosen is merely pet tolerant or are they pet friendly. There is a huge difference. Do they have an exercise area? Are you limited to pet-friendly (smoking) rooms? Sometimes this is not the best choice. Remember you want to be comfortable too.
TRAVEL WITH MEDICAL RECORDS
You always want to be proactive here. If there is ever an altercation, by law a dog must be quarantined without proof of vaccination.
DON'T LEAVE A FOOTPRINT
Bring along all necessary cleaning supplies in the case there is an accident and don't forget your poop bags. Clean up after yourself and let there be no proof your pooch has ever been in the room.
Hopefully in the future the day will come where we can dine with our hounds, grab a street car in San Fran or hail a taxi in NYC. But we must prove we are worthy of such a privilege. Until that time let us do all we can to be the best and most responsible pet-friendly travelers out there.
Martha Abraham has traveled extensively with her dogs around the country. Eight years ago she opened Bed and Breakfast Inn, Ponder Cove, a unique, country comfortable and luxurious mountain getaway for you and your pet.
NO SURPRISES
Be a responsible pet friendly traveler. You might travel with your dog but I wouldn't take along your exotic animals. If you must, please ask the establishment if that is allowed. You put the establishment in a very embarrassing position. They won't like turning you away but they may have to. Many insurance companies limit the liability to hotels allowing pets. That is why some have weight and breed limits. Always come clean and pick the accommodation that is right for you. This is true of cats as well. Many people are extremely allergic. Therefore if you travel with a cat you will find fewer places to accommodate you and you may end up in a smoking room.
TRAVEL WITH A CRATE
This cuts down on the anxiety of your pet. They much prefer sleeping in their own bedroom. So, bring it along. You will find the hotelier will be very happy with your choice to do so.
ASK UP FRONT
You will want to know if the accommodation you have chosen is merely pet tolerant or are they pet friendly. There is a huge difference. Do they have an exercise area? Are you limited to pet-friendly (smoking) rooms? Sometimes this is not the best choice. Remember you want to be comfortable too.
TRAVEL WITH MEDICAL RECORDS
You always want to be proactive here. If there is ever an altercation, by law a dog must be quarantined without proof of vaccination.
DON'T LEAVE A FOOTPRINT
Bring along all necessary cleaning supplies in the case there is an accident and don't forget your poop bags. Clean up after yourself and let there be no proof your pooch has ever been in the room.
Hopefully in the future the day will come where we can dine with our hounds, grab a street car in San Fran or hail a taxi in NYC. But we must prove we are worthy of such a privilege. Until that time let us do all we can to be the best and most responsible pet-friendly travelers out there.
Martha Abraham has traveled extensively with her dogs around the country. Eight years ago she opened Bed and Breakfast Inn, Ponder Cove, a unique, country comfortable and luxurious mountain getaway for you and your pet.
A List of Possible Pets For Your Child
If you are thinking about pet ownership and have children, make sure they are ready for it. Children adore pets and one must take their age into consideration. You must also decide what kind of pet you would like to have in your home. Here are a few suggestions.
Hermit crabs are usually the favorite among kids. They are relatively easy to maintain and do not require as much care. When they grow bigger they just get a bigger shell and they are good company for the kids. Many hermit crabs can just be left on their own to crawl around.
Hamsters are a little more responsibility for the kids as they need to be fed and given water daily. Their cages also need to be cleaned out at least weekly if not more frequently. Parents also need to know that this is a night time creature.
Hamsters like to play at night time when the kids are supposed to be sleeping, thus the term nocturnal creatures.
Dogs and cats are common and often part of families. They do need care and attention like a family member and are usually easy to maintain with good house training.
Regular bathing and grooming is a necessity as they tend to shed their fur. They also need to eat several times during the day and more frequently when they are younger. Puppies require many hours of training.
One can get them trained professionally and reduce the work load and guess work. Cats on the other hand are easier to manage because they do not need a lot of training but require just as much care.
Reptiles and fish are less cuddly and may not be as great of a companion. When looking for pets take your child's personality into consideration and their level of responsibility and get a pet that teaches them this quality.
Hermit crabs are usually the favorite among kids. They are relatively easy to maintain and do not require as much care. When they grow bigger they just get a bigger shell and they are good company for the kids. Many hermit crabs can just be left on their own to crawl around.
Hamsters are a little more responsibility for the kids as they need to be fed and given water daily. Their cages also need to be cleaned out at least weekly if not more frequently. Parents also need to know that this is a night time creature.
Hamsters like to play at night time when the kids are supposed to be sleeping, thus the term nocturnal creatures.
Dogs and cats are common and often part of families. They do need care and attention like a family member and are usually easy to maintain with good house training.
Regular bathing and grooming is a necessity as they tend to shed their fur. They also need to eat several times during the day and more frequently when they are younger. Puppies require many hours of training.
One can get them trained professionally and reduce the work load and guess work. Cats on the other hand are easier to manage because they do not need a lot of training but require just as much care.
Reptiles and fish are less cuddly and may not be as great of a companion. When looking for pets take your child's personality into consideration and their level of responsibility and get a pet that teaches them this quality.
The Secret of Introducing Cats to Dogs
Cats and dogs are not what you can call natural friends. A person well acquainted with cat behavior may feel apprehensive while introducing it to his dog, wondering how the latter would react and vice versa. Does that mean that having a dog at home would put paid to your plans of getting a kitten? This is not necessarily true. With proper knowledge and planning, you can certainly have both these animals as your pets.
Before trying to introduce your new cat or even taking her home from the store, you must be sure that your dog accepts you as the leader or alpha male, otherwise you will have a tough time controlling him. The breed of dog may also play a role here. It is generally observed that dogs belonging to mixed breeds require more time to get trained.
Once you bring your kitty home, place her in the room that you have prepared for her. Give her some time to settle down and allow your dog to have a sniff of the cat's smell on your hand. If he becomes too agitated, put him in a leash, and wait until he calms down before approaching your new kitty's room. Acquaint your cat with the smell of your dog and place some toys bearing the dog's scent by its side.
One of the important cat behaviors is that they can get easily stressed. With this in mind, you should train your dog in a way that your cat feels comfortable and safe around it. You should help your dog realize that the cat is neither a food item nor a prey.
You should also take the opportunity to lay down the rules to your dog, relating what is acceptable to the kitty. Behaviors such as jumping on the cat, harassing it in any way, chasing it and barking at her should be discouraged. You can use doggie treats to help him remember and repeat the good behavior.
The first few meetings between your cat and dog should be done under your supervision. Depending on the comfort level of both the animals, you may choose to keep your dog leashed or unleashed.
Signs like your kitty having her food in your dog's presence, sleeping in the same room and not being terrified when your dog comes close are good enough.
We hope the above information will assure you that you can go ahead and buy a cat even when you already have a pet dog at home.
Before trying to introduce your new cat or even taking her home from the store, you must be sure that your dog accepts you as the leader or alpha male, otherwise you will have a tough time controlling him. The breed of dog may also play a role here. It is generally observed that dogs belonging to mixed breeds require more time to get trained.
Once you bring your kitty home, place her in the room that you have prepared for her. Give her some time to settle down and allow your dog to have a sniff of the cat's smell on your hand. If he becomes too agitated, put him in a leash, and wait until he calms down before approaching your new kitty's room. Acquaint your cat with the smell of your dog and place some toys bearing the dog's scent by its side.
One of the important cat behaviors is that they can get easily stressed. With this in mind, you should train your dog in a way that your cat feels comfortable and safe around it. You should help your dog realize that the cat is neither a food item nor a prey.
You should also take the opportunity to lay down the rules to your dog, relating what is acceptable to the kitty. Behaviors such as jumping on the cat, harassing it in any way, chasing it and barking at her should be discouraged. You can use doggie treats to help him remember and repeat the good behavior.
The first few meetings between your cat and dog should be done under your supervision. Depending on the comfort level of both the animals, you may choose to keep your dog leashed or unleashed.
Signs like your kitty having her food in your dog's presence, sleeping in the same room and not being terrified when your dog comes close are good enough.
We hope the above information will assure you that you can go ahead and buy a cat even when you already have a pet dog at home.
Pet Insurance Comparison: Finding the Right Plan For You And Your Pet
Doing pet insurance comparison can be time consuming and confusing. Aim to simplify the process by bringing going online todo your pet insurance comparison.There are sites for nearly all the issuers of policies, as well as sites with comprehensive information to, and guides on, multiple providers so that you will have all or most of the information you will need at your finger tips literally! Do a search to get started. Just pull up any search engines' 'search box', type in "pet insurance" or "pet insurance comparison". You'll find information on companies throughout the world. Refine your search to your specific geographical area to narrow down the list.
Next, you will want to either pick a specific insurance company's site, or look for a site that has information on several companies, perhaps in the form of reviews. It is always a good practice to have an idea of the amount of your personal budget that you are willing to spend acquiring pet insurance. Also have any applicable records from your vet available before you start filling out applications.
It's no surprise that people enroll in health insurance programs, because it's too risky if they don't. The same can apply to your pets. A sudden illness or accident can really devastate not only your pets' health, but wreck your budget as well! Most people dearly love their pets and will do what it takes to provide them a healthy and safe life. Vet bills can be more than you bargained for at times, especially in emergency situations. This is where pet insurance comparison enters the picture. For some it can "cap" unknown financial risk, and helps to level out their budget, while providing their puppy, kitten, dog or cat the best medical care possible.
Pet insurance comparison guides are designed to help you make the decision that is right for you and your pet! They provide you with up to date information on various plans and providers and you decide. Most sites do their best to provide information that is as current as possible, however, they may not catch every single item. In some areas regulations on issuing this type of insurance may differ and you are advised to check with related agencies in your area.
Most policies offer lifetime preventative care including: spaying/neutering, vaccinations, and micro-chipping. Some plans may offer dental coverage as well. Prices and coverage amounts will differ from one provider to another, but a good comparison will reveal the plan that you are looking for. You will find details on providers and plans throughout the world. Some companies will even allow you to register your pet and pay online these days, and allow you to begin using your preventative benefits immediately, and your emergency benefits within about 48-72 hours.
An example of one of my searches revealed prices as follows: A 12 year old female chocolate lab in Colorado, would cost $42.25 per month with a $500.00 deductible. The same dog at 3 years old would be $28.46 per month.
A 10 year old mixed breed female cat in Colorado would cost $23.46 per month with a $500.00 deductible. The same cat at 3 years old would be $17.32 per month.
Be sure to do your pet insurance comparison thoroughly, and remember when shopping to look for approval of providers by the Better Business Bureau as well as various animal health and welfare agencies. Especially look for agencies that maybe in your area, and which you may already be familiar with. You will be glad you did your pet insurance comparison online, the convenience alone is worth it!
Next, you will want to either pick a specific insurance company's site, or look for a site that has information on several companies, perhaps in the form of reviews. It is always a good practice to have an idea of the amount of your personal budget that you are willing to spend acquiring pet insurance. Also have any applicable records from your vet available before you start filling out applications.
It's no surprise that people enroll in health insurance programs, because it's too risky if they don't. The same can apply to your pets. A sudden illness or accident can really devastate not only your pets' health, but wreck your budget as well! Most people dearly love their pets and will do what it takes to provide them a healthy and safe life. Vet bills can be more than you bargained for at times, especially in emergency situations. This is where pet insurance comparison enters the picture. For some it can "cap" unknown financial risk, and helps to level out their budget, while providing their puppy, kitten, dog or cat the best medical care possible.
Pet insurance comparison guides are designed to help you make the decision that is right for you and your pet! They provide you with up to date information on various plans and providers and you decide. Most sites do their best to provide information that is as current as possible, however, they may not catch every single item. In some areas regulations on issuing this type of insurance may differ and you are advised to check with related agencies in your area.
Most policies offer lifetime preventative care including: spaying/neutering, vaccinations, and micro-chipping. Some plans may offer dental coverage as well. Prices and coverage amounts will differ from one provider to another, but a good comparison will reveal the plan that you are looking for. You will find details on providers and plans throughout the world. Some companies will even allow you to register your pet and pay online these days, and allow you to begin using your preventative benefits immediately, and your emergency benefits within about 48-72 hours.
An example of one of my searches revealed prices as follows: A 12 year old female chocolate lab in Colorado, would cost $42.25 per month with a $500.00 deductible. The same dog at 3 years old would be $28.46 per month.
A 10 year old mixed breed female cat in Colorado would cost $23.46 per month with a $500.00 deductible. The same cat at 3 years old would be $17.32 per month.
Be sure to do your pet insurance comparison thoroughly, and remember when shopping to look for approval of providers by the Better Business Bureau as well as various animal health and welfare agencies. Especially look for agencies that maybe in your area, and which you may already be familiar with. You will be glad you did your pet insurance comparison online, the convenience alone is worth it!
Best Options for Starting a Pet Supply Wholesaler
In every corner of the planet, people are the proud owners of a variety of domesticated animals ranging from dogs to cats to reptiles to amphibians and every animal in between. Usually, someone who owns an animal has to deal with items required to take care of the pet, such as food and accessories.
Due to that reason, it might be a good idea to start your own pet supply business or retail store. For those of you who know all of your neighbors, you probably already realize that many of them might need such supply items and would buy from you. To start with, you might want to open up a retail pet store.
In order to be known as a good pet store, you will have to find the wholesaler that can give you what you need. Typically, you will be able to get pet products at lower costs through a distributor so you can sell them for more to your customers. But, you will probably have to purchase in bulk to make sure you get the best price. Moreover, wholesalers will have a large inventory of pet supply items like food, crates, accessories, and even the animals themselves. The key to generating a decent amount of income from your store, you will need to obtain the services of a good pet supply wholesaler.
Petwholesaler.com is one such supply wholesaler you can purchase from on the Internet. This particular company will take care of everything you need for your pet store because they stock a wide variety of items. Because you can buy from them in bulk, you will get much better pricing, which means you will make more money off the products. You can go to their website at any time, day or night, since they are always open. Moreover, you do not have to place a minimum order to get the wholesale price on specific items.
Royal Pet Supplies is another highly-rated pet supply wholesaler that has been around for a long time. This business started up about 60 years ago and has always been a great place to get pet items. They sell approximately 28,000 items from more than 300 separate companies. They offer excellent and quick customer service, and you can usually get your products within 24 hours. The people who work for this business have been employed a long time, which means they are experienced and helpful.
Due to that reason, it might be a good idea to start your own pet supply business or retail store. For those of you who know all of your neighbors, you probably already realize that many of them might need such supply items and would buy from you. To start with, you might want to open up a retail pet store.
In order to be known as a good pet store, you will have to find the wholesaler that can give you what you need. Typically, you will be able to get pet products at lower costs through a distributor so you can sell them for more to your customers. But, you will probably have to purchase in bulk to make sure you get the best price. Moreover, wholesalers will have a large inventory of pet supply items like food, crates, accessories, and even the animals themselves. The key to generating a decent amount of income from your store, you will need to obtain the services of a good pet supply wholesaler.
Petwholesaler.com is one such supply wholesaler you can purchase from on the Internet. This particular company will take care of everything you need for your pet store because they stock a wide variety of items. Because you can buy from them in bulk, you will get much better pricing, which means you will make more money off the products. You can go to their website at any time, day or night, since they are always open. Moreover, you do not have to place a minimum order to get the wholesale price on specific items.
Royal Pet Supplies is another highly-rated pet supply wholesaler that has been around for a long time. This business started up about 60 years ago and has always been a great place to get pet items. They sell approximately 28,000 items from more than 300 separate companies. They offer excellent and quick customer service, and you can usually get your products within 24 hours. The people who work for this business have been employed a long time, which means they are experienced and helpful.
Tips on Buying a Good Bed For Your Pet
I think that if I were someone's pet I would want to have one of those big, fluffy beds. A bed like that would really keep you warm and cozy at night. What pet wouldn't want to sleep in a fluffy, comfortable pet bed if they had the choice? Once pet owners can get an idea of the different types of supplies and pet beds that are available, they'll have a better understanding of what type of bed is best for their best friend.
There are so many different types of beds available now that are suitable for so many different kinds of pets. There are even more options available to choose from online. Some are designed to keep them cool in warm weather, such as foam-based beds that soak in water to keep them cool from the bottom up. Some are designed to keep them warm by adding a warming mat or some other type of warmth underneath.
Some pets love to hang out and sleep on the couch. Other love to take naps up on the bed with their owner where they feel safe. There are some amazing custom-design models available that are available from specialist design companies. Some of these are made from materials that are hypo-allergenic for animals who suffer from allergies and other problems. With such a large selection of sizes and options you can find small beds, extra large models and even special orthopedic designed ones. They even have specialty items such as an elevated pet bed for animals that don't like to sleep on the floor. You can even find comfortable bean bag style beds like the one that Garfield used, made especially for all-day nappers. If you don't have a lot of space for pet bed storage, you should look into fold-able pet mats that will help you save space. Nap pads are also available for pets who like to sleep while traveling by car.
Chew-proof beds are even available for dogs that like to scratch, chew and nibble on everything they can get their paws on - even their comfortable beds! If you are looking for something a little plush for your pet - don't worry. A lot of supply shops cater to the higher end and will have something elegant for you to buy. They even have trendy styles for teens that own pets. Matching beds that are made of the same material as the pet clothes are popular as well.
Every pet deserves a nice comfortable pet bed to sleep on. Why shouldn't they have a little luxury in return for all the companionship they give you? You can let them play outdoors in the garden or around the house. But wherever you take them, it is important that you make sure that they are receiving the best love and care from us day and night. You don't have to go out and buy the fanciest dog bed in the world, but a comfortable place for them to sleep purchased from your pet supplies and bed store will make them feel at home.
There are so many different types of beds available now that are suitable for so many different kinds of pets. There are even more options available to choose from online. Some are designed to keep them cool in warm weather, such as foam-based beds that soak in water to keep them cool from the bottom up. Some are designed to keep them warm by adding a warming mat or some other type of warmth underneath.
Some pets love to hang out and sleep on the couch. Other love to take naps up on the bed with their owner where they feel safe. There are some amazing custom-design models available that are available from specialist design companies. Some of these are made from materials that are hypo-allergenic for animals who suffer from allergies and other problems. With such a large selection of sizes and options you can find small beds, extra large models and even special orthopedic designed ones. They even have specialty items such as an elevated pet bed for animals that don't like to sleep on the floor. You can even find comfortable bean bag style beds like the one that Garfield used, made especially for all-day nappers. If you don't have a lot of space for pet bed storage, you should look into fold-able pet mats that will help you save space. Nap pads are also available for pets who like to sleep while traveling by car.
Chew-proof beds are even available for dogs that like to scratch, chew and nibble on everything they can get their paws on - even their comfortable beds! If you are looking for something a little plush for your pet - don't worry. A lot of supply shops cater to the higher end and will have something elegant for you to buy. They even have trendy styles for teens that own pets. Matching beds that are made of the same material as the pet clothes are popular as well.
Every pet deserves a nice comfortable pet bed to sleep on. Why shouldn't they have a little luxury in return for all the companionship they give you? You can let them play outdoors in the garden or around the house. But wherever you take them, it is important that you make sure that they are receiving the best love and care from us day and night. You don't have to go out and buy the fanciest dog bed in the world, but a comfortable place for them to sleep purchased from your pet supplies and bed store will make them feel at home.
Pets Are Just Like Children
Those of us who have pets do not differentiate between our pets and our children. We treat them just like one of our family and take care of them in the same fashion. Yes we do get lots of pet foods that are available in the market but most of us prefer to cook homely and nutritious meals for them. Sometimes it is fun to download some dog biscuit recipe and make for them a special treat for the weekend. Dogs love such attention and good food.
Healthy home food is the best for your dog for you know what he is eating. Especially pets have such delicate constitution just like us humans and can fall sick easily.
Some of the unknown brands in the market are made from cheap and poor quality materials. When you given them to your dog, they can fall sick and do not get the nutrition they need. No wonder people avoid such ready made stuff.
Just like children your pets too love having different treats. It makes them happy and they enjoy having it all for themselves. Therefore you can buy branded biscuits and try out different kinds of recipes using other ingredients that are available at home. Internet is the best resource for you to download many such easy recipes.
You might have to try out a few dishes several times until you are able to really find out which one your pet finds tasty and loves eating. You get several flavors and recipes just like how we have the desserts. You would need to experiment with different types before you settle on a few that he really loves.
Your dog loves chicken. So it makes sense for you to down load some recipes that have chicken as one of the main ingredients with the dog biscuit. Along with nutrition this gives an excellent taste that your dog simply cannot resist.
You can keep buying reputed brand of dog biscuits and keep stock of them at all times at home so that you are able to combine it with home cooked meal and enhance the taste. But then buy always smaller packets so that you get new stock all the time and also check the date of manufacture on the packet to ensure it is the latest lot.
People who have a family of pets at home will do better by cooking one common meal for all of them at once and maintaining good stock of biscuits that you buy in bulk. You will have to work out ways of ensuring you save money wherever possible and at the same time provide them nutritious meals.
Healthy home food is the best for your dog for you know what he is eating. Especially pets have such delicate constitution just like us humans and can fall sick easily.
Some of the unknown brands in the market are made from cheap and poor quality materials. When you given them to your dog, they can fall sick and do not get the nutrition they need. No wonder people avoid such ready made stuff.
Just like children your pets too love having different treats. It makes them happy and they enjoy having it all for themselves. Therefore you can buy branded biscuits and try out different kinds of recipes using other ingredients that are available at home. Internet is the best resource for you to download many such easy recipes.
You might have to try out a few dishes several times until you are able to really find out which one your pet finds tasty and loves eating. You get several flavors and recipes just like how we have the desserts. You would need to experiment with different types before you settle on a few that he really loves.
Your dog loves chicken. So it makes sense for you to down load some recipes that have chicken as one of the main ingredients with the dog biscuit. Along with nutrition this gives an excellent taste that your dog simply cannot resist.
You can keep buying reputed brand of dog biscuits and keep stock of them at all times at home so that you are able to combine it with home cooked meal and enhance the taste. But then buy always smaller packets so that you get new stock all the time and also check the date of manufacture on the packet to ensure it is the latest lot.
People who have a family of pets at home will do better by cooking one common meal for all of them at once and maintaining good stock of biscuits that you buy in bulk. You will have to work out ways of ensuring you save money wherever possible and at the same time provide them nutritious meals.
Choosing a Pet for Your Child
Do you want to choose a pet for your child? If you do, please consider the most important things: first, you must think about the age of the pet, and second, what is the pet that you want to have in your house? Most of the kids like to have pets in their house, so if you want to buy one, you can choose from my recommendations below:
First of all, the hermit crab is my favorite. You can take care of them easily and they don't make a mess like dogs or cats. Once they get older, they also get bigger and they can crawl alone.
If you like stuff animals, take a look at hamster. They have to be taken care of if you want they live with you longer. By eating fresh food, and you have to change their water regularly and cage cleaning at least once a week. Please keep in mind that hamster are nocturnal animals, so that you have to take care not only for them but also for your child.
These pets are very special as they play at night, while your kid is in its sleep, so it is better if you tell them about their pets.
Dogs and cats are very popular, but have them in your house meaning that you have to take care for them as a family member. If you train them enough, they will not be messy as they can go to drop their load at the right place and they can keep your house from burglars as well.
But they do need bathing and some shedding work as well, they also need to be fed many times a day, so as a parent, you should take care of them carefully.
You can consider a puppy as you want. You can train it when it was young to get it in shape later. For cats, you need to do the same but maybe less than dogs.
Fishes are also a great choice, but they don't do much so your kid may bore with them soon in no time.
However, whatever pets you may bring in, you should prepare for your kid responsibility and teach them that pets need love and attention.
First of all, the hermit crab is my favorite. You can take care of them easily and they don't make a mess like dogs or cats. Once they get older, they also get bigger and they can crawl alone.
If you like stuff animals, take a look at hamster. They have to be taken care of if you want they live with you longer. By eating fresh food, and you have to change their water regularly and cage cleaning at least once a week. Please keep in mind that hamster are nocturnal animals, so that you have to take care not only for them but also for your child.
These pets are very special as they play at night, while your kid is in its sleep, so it is better if you tell them about their pets.
Dogs and cats are very popular, but have them in your house meaning that you have to take care for them as a family member. If you train them enough, they will not be messy as they can go to drop their load at the right place and they can keep your house from burglars as well.
But they do need bathing and some shedding work as well, they also need to be fed many times a day, so as a parent, you should take care of them carefully.
You can consider a puppy as you want. You can train it when it was young to get it in shape later. For cats, you need to do the same but maybe less than dogs.
Fishes are also a great choice, but they don't do much so your kid may bore with them soon in no time.
However, whatever pets you may bring in, you should prepare for your kid responsibility and teach them that pets need love and attention.
What You Need To Know On Heartworm Medicine
Learning that your dog has been infected from parasitic roundworms is quite traumatic. Living and growing in numbers inside your dog's heart and irritating the pulmonary artery of its lungs, you have now been worrying too much with the possible long term and irreversible effects on this heartworm disease to your favorite dog's health. You start wondering what options you have when it comes to treating heartworm disease and what best heartworm medicine should be administered to your dog.
Choosing the best heartworm medicine for your dog may not be very hard after all. Brands of heartworm medicines are available in the market and perhaps the only problem that you will have to decide on is the price that you can afford and the other treatment capabilities of the drug that you will use. Some brands do not just target heartworm disease but also treat infections from hookworms, tapeworms, whipworms, dog ear mites, dogs and puppy fleas, arcasid, sarcoptic mange mites, and a particular species of ticks. It is advisable therefore to consult it with your dog's vet since your dog may have a special caring concern than other dogs.
There may be kinds of heartworm medications available for your dog. The first one is ingestible. Usually they come in tasty flavored chewable tablets that your dog will surely feed on. Heartgard brand of medicine is the famous chewable table among this ingestible medicine. It has a beef flavor so you won't have a hard time feeding your beloved animal. Heartgard supplies for six months and the tablet is just given once a month; affordable and effective. A prescription however is first needed before you can buy Heartgard so better visit your dog's veterinarian. Heartgard is available in drug stores, vet clinics as well as in online shops; just make sure that you know the expiration date before buying the said product.
Sentinel is another chewable tablet that may be given for your dog to treat Heartworm disease as it also treats other infections. This brand is given once a month and similarly, it supplies for six months. Dogs although must be at least four years older and up to take this tablet. Although these two brands have side effects such as loss of appetite, drowsiness, vomiting, seizures, diarrhea, and red skin itching---- these have been found very rare in dogs who have taken the tablets.
Meanwhile, Interceptors, is a brand specialize in killing hard to identify whipworms, may also be given to treat heartworm disease as a monthly oral medicine. If there are ingestible medicines, there are also medicines that are just applied on spots and these are the topical heartworm medicines such as Revolution and Advantage Multi. They are multi-tasking medicines since they treat not just heartworm disease but as well as other infections including mites, fleas and the like. Revolution, for instance, is a liquid medicine administered to the skin of the dog. Administered monthly, Revolution may be quite expensive but it is a favorite amongst dog owners as it could treat other infections as well.
Choosing the best heartworm medicine for your dog may not be very hard after all. Brands of heartworm medicines are available in the market and perhaps the only problem that you will have to decide on is the price that you can afford and the other treatment capabilities of the drug that you will use. Some brands do not just target heartworm disease but also treat infections from hookworms, tapeworms, whipworms, dog ear mites, dogs and puppy fleas, arcasid, sarcoptic mange mites, and a particular species of ticks. It is advisable therefore to consult it with your dog's vet since your dog may have a special caring concern than other dogs.
There may be kinds of heartworm medications available for your dog. The first one is ingestible. Usually they come in tasty flavored chewable tablets that your dog will surely feed on. Heartgard brand of medicine is the famous chewable table among this ingestible medicine. It has a beef flavor so you won't have a hard time feeding your beloved animal. Heartgard supplies for six months and the tablet is just given once a month; affordable and effective. A prescription however is first needed before you can buy Heartgard so better visit your dog's veterinarian. Heartgard is available in drug stores, vet clinics as well as in online shops; just make sure that you know the expiration date before buying the said product.
Sentinel is another chewable tablet that may be given for your dog to treat Heartworm disease as it also treats other infections. This brand is given once a month and similarly, it supplies for six months. Dogs although must be at least four years older and up to take this tablet. Although these two brands have side effects such as loss of appetite, drowsiness, vomiting, seizures, diarrhea, and red skin itching---- these have been found very rare in dogs who have taken the tablets.
Meanwhile, Interceptors, is a brand specialize in killing hard to identify whipworms, may also be given to treat heartworm disease as a monthly oral medicine. If there are ingestible medicines, there are also medicines that are just applied on spots and these are the topical heartworm medicines such as Revolution and Advantage Multi. They are multi-tasking medicines since they treat not just heartworm disease but as well as other infections including mites, fleas and the like. Revolution, for instance, is a liquid medicine administered to the skin of the dog. Administered monthly, Revolution may be quite expensive but it is a favorite amongst dog owners as it could treat other infections as well.
Ferrets As Pets - How To Take Care Of Your Ferrets
Ferrets can exist for up to 10 years or sometimes more. This depends on how you to care of them so if you want to enjoy this friendship for the long term, it is best to read on further.
Caring for your ferret is important. Since ferrets have to eat, you have to give them food that is consisting of meat and poultry products that are rich in protein and low in fat. Like humans, they shouldn't have things that are high in sugar and carbohydrates as they cause health risks. The same goes for food intended for other animals.
They should also have plenty of water. Without H2O your ferret is able to become dehydrated. Make sure you supply water for them, you may use a pet bowl or bottle for them.
Their cage needs to have enough space for them. An ideal size of cage would be 18 inches wide both ways and about 30 inches high. There are many types of cages you can get for your ferrets, some even have multi levels for them so they don't have to stay down on the lower level. Make sure the your ferret can't get out of their cage when you are not home.
Provide them with toys to play with. Make sure the toys can stand the ferrets sharp teeth, or the toy maybe swallowed. Exercising your ferret could consist of taking them out for a walk. There is special leads for ferrets that will help with this.
Pet ferrets should only be let out of the cage with proper supervision. Just like kids, you should ferret proof your home otherwise they'll chew things their not supposed to and they'll try to escape.
Toilet training the ferret is recommended to avoid stained carpet. Litter boxes will help with this so your ferret knows where they go.
Always reward them when they do well. Teach them to do tricks using this same rewarding technique. You can train them to come back to you when they run of by using squeaky toys. Other tricks which are also taught to dogs are fetch, play dead or roll over.
Your ferrets should have check ups on a regular basis with the vet also. States that permit you to own one want you to have it vaccinated once a year.
Caring for your ferrets will provide you with a lot of enjoyment for years to come. These tips will help you deal with your pet ferret. Who knows? You might want to get another one as other have because the more, the merrier.
Caring for your ferret is important. Since ferrets have to eat, you have to give them food that is consisting of meat and poultry products that are rich in protein and low in fat. Like humans, they shouldn't have things that are high in sugar and carbohydrates as they cause health risks. The same goes for food intended for other animals.
They should also have plenty of water. Without H2O your ferret is able to become dehydrated. Make sure you supply water for them, you may use a pet bowl or bottle for them.
Their cage needs to have enough space for them. An ideal size of cage would be 18 inches wide both ways and about 30 inches high. There are many types of cages you can get for your ferrets, some even have multi levels for them so they don't have to stay down on the lower level. Make sure the your ferret can't get out of their cage when you are not home.
Provide them with toys to play with. Make sure the toys can stand the ferrets sharp teeth, or the toy maybe swallowed. Exercising your ferret could consist of taking them out for a walk. There is special leads for ferrets that will help with this.
Pet ferrets should only be let out of the cage with proper supervision. Just like kids, you should ferret proof your home otherwise they'll chew things their not supposed to and they'll try to escape.
Toilet training the ferret is recommended to avoid stained carpet. Litter boxes will help with this so your ferret knows where they go.
Always reward them when they do well. Teach them to do tricks using this same rewarding technique. You can train them to come back to you when they run of by using squeaky toys. Other tricks which are also taught to dogs are fetch, play dead or roll over.
Your ferrets should have check ups on a regular basis with the vet also. States that permit you to own one want you to have it vaccinated once a year.
Caring for your ferrets will provide you with a lot of enjoyment for years to come. These tips will help you deal with your pet ferret. Who knows? You might want to get another one as other have because the more, the merrier.
Are Natural, Holistic Pet Care Products Better For Your Pet's Health?
Do you often wonder if natural holistic pet care products are better for your dog or cat? Are they more cost effective? It is certainly reasonable to wonder whether these products compare to the widely used and available mass produced products on the market today. What are the facts you should consider when you are dealing with these products for your pet.
Safety for your pet would be the number one concern as always with either natural products or commercially available products. Holistic pet products provide several major advantages for your dog or cat. Firstly, it is important to understand what they contain. Unlike over the counter products, they do not contain harmful chemicals or preservatives found in many of the commercial pet products on today's market. Natural or holistic products will contain mostly elements found in nature, including herbs. This benefit means that your pet will not be at risk for suffering from adverse side effects that can occur when using many commercial products that can often cause allergic reactions.
Also, they are beneficial because they are very effective in giving much needed relief. Holistic products and practices have been used for many years and in many cultures to treat a variety of different medical problems in people as well as animals. Their effectiveness has not diminished over the years and have become more mainstream if anything. When you seek out a remedy or a treatment for an issue that your pet is suffering from,natural healing products can supply you with the solutions that you desire.
To conclude, they are beneficial for your pets because they are often more readily available than store bought, over the counter products. As some of these are already in your home, they can be cost effective. There can also be a timing issue - if your pet wakes you up at 3AM it can be difficult as well as expensive to have them treated. At times like these, it is important that you understand how to provide a safe, fast and effective remedy for your pet. Natural pet products can supply you with that opportunity.
Safety for your pet would be the number one concern as always with either natural products or commercially available products. Holistic pet products provide several major advantages for your dog or cat. Firstly, it is important to understand what they contain. Unlike over the counter products, they do not contain harmful chemicals or preservatives found in many of the commercial pet products on today's market. Natural or holistic products will contain mostly elements found in nature, including herbs. This benefit means that your pet will not be at risk for suffering from adverse side effects that can occur when using many commercial products that can often cause allergic reactions.
Also, they are beneficial because they are very effective in giving much needed relief. Holistic products and practices have been used for many years and in many cultures to treat a variety of different medical problems in people as well as animals. Their effectiveness has not diminished over the years and have become more mainstream if anything. When you seek out a remedy or a treatment for an issue that your pet is suffering from,natural healing products can supply you with the solutions that you desire.
To conclude, they are beneficial for your pets because they are often more readily available than store bought, over the counter products. As some of these are already in your home, they can be cost effective. There can also be a timing issue - if your pet wakes you up at 3AM it can be difficult as well as expensive to have them treated. At times like these, it is important that you understand how to provide a safe, fast and effective remedy for your pet. Natural pet products can supply you with that opportunity.
Friday, December 10, 2010
Different Hamster Toys and Accessories
Like all other household pets, hamsters also seek love and attention from their owner. You should groom your hamsters, feed them and play with them so that they will feel loved. There are various ways of showing affection to your pet hamster. You can give your pet hamster healthy food to eat, toys and accessories to play with and a shelter like a hamster cage for them to live in.
Aside from providing them food, hamster also need toys and exercise stuff to make them bright, remain active and stay healthy. Hamsters are very playful pets and having toys around for them to use will make them more active and satisfied. They love to climb, run around, go up and down and nibble the things they can hold. You can play with your pet hamster by making them run along your shoulders as long as you've already trained them well not to bite and be unfriendly. Hamsters are adaptable and very cozy to humans compared to being around other hamsters.
Inside their hamster cage, hamster should be given toys and accessories such artificial tunnel, exercise ball and wheel. They can run on top of the ball, creep and slide within the tunnel and run inside the wheel. The hamsters will certainly enjoy being inside their cage if they have lots of things to do and toys to play with. Playing can already be a part of your hamster's exercise because the wheel they are using can serve as their treadmill like what humans use to exercise. Moving around can also prevent the hamsters from getting bored and can make them stay energetic.
Hamsters also need to be supervised. You should make sure that they do not stress themselves out in using their exercise toys and they do not get dehydrated. Hamsters should only be permitted to use their ball and wheel for a maximum of 20 minutes. After that, they should relax before they can play with the toys again.
As you can notice in movies, most hamsters love exercise wheels so you should buy one for your pet hamster. This can considered a necessity since hamsters should also need to burn some calories particularly since they love to eat any food or thing that they can hold onto.
You could also place a tunnel maze inside the hamster cage if you have extra money to buy more accessories. This accessory comes into several sizes, color and shapes; the good thing is that it is detachable so you could create your own maze. Furthermore, you can buy extra parts individually then attach or add them to the maze.
The above-mentioned toys and accessories can make your hamster happy and energetic all the time.
Aside from providing them food, hamster also need toys and exercise stuff to make them bright, remain active and stay healthy. Hamsters are very playful pets and having toys around for them to use will make them more active and satisfied. They love to climb, run around, go up and down and nibble the things they can hold. You can play with your pet hamster by making them run along your shoulders as long as you've already trained them well not to bite and be unfriendly. Hamsters are adaptable and very cozy to humans compared to being around other hamsters.
Inside their hamster cage, hamster should be given toys and accessories such artificial tunnel, exercise ball and wheel. They can run on top of the ball, creep and slide within the tunnel and run inside the wheel. The hamsters will certainly enjoy being inside their cage if they have lots of things to do and toys to play with. Playing can already be a part of your hamster's exercise because the wheel they are using can serve as their treadmill like what humans use to exercise. Moving around can also prevent the hamsters from getting bored and can make them stay energetic.
Hamsters also need to be supervised. You should make sure that they do not stress themselves out in using their exercise toys and they do not get dehydrated. Hamsters should only be permitted to use their ball and wheel for a maximum of 20 minutes. After that, they should relax before they can play with the toys again.
As you can notice in movies, most hamsters love exercise wheels so you should buy one for your pet hamster. This can considered a necessity since hamsters should also need to burn some calories particularly since they love to eat any food or thing that they can hold onto.
You could also place a tunnel maze inside the hamster cage if you have extra money to buy more accessories. This accessory comes into several sizes, color and shapes; the good thing is that it is detachable so you could create your own maze. Furthermore, you can buy extra parts individually then attach or add them to the maze.
The above-mentioned toys and accessories can make your hamster happy and energetic all the time.
Proper Handling of Hamsters
In handling a pet you should be responsible and committed enough. It is not as easy as you might think it is. Like humans, pets need to be provided their basic needs such food and shelter to make them stay happy and healthy. Well, one of the common pets we can find at home nowadays is the hamster. Hamsters are attractive and unthreatening pets that most parents like to get for their youngsters.
Hamsters are largely furry so they are very huggable and cute. Not only are they cute, but they are also fun to look at because of their quick movement and brilliant eyes. Even by just observing them your day will surely brighten up. There are many types of hamsters that you can choose from and these hamsters have different characteristics that you should study so that you will know how to handle your chosen breed.
The two most popular types of hamsters are the Dwarf and Syrian hamsters. A Dwarf Hamster is smaller than a Syrian Hamster. It has short hair and is very lively which makes it difficult to train at times because you can seldom hold them for they will readily jump off your palm. Of course, when tamed early they can be taught how to walk along your shoulders or stay in your palm. It is recommended to use gloves when taking them for the first time because Dwarf hamsters will feel uncomfortable the first time you hold them.
On the other hand, Golden hamsters are larger and heavier in size and are less difficult to tame or handle although they are anti-social to other hamsters. They have longer hair which makes them cute to look at. If you also plan to train them to walk around your body, then you should put them in any part of your body then allow them to more around. If they decline to walk around then pick them up again and do the process again so they will get accustomed to it. It might take 2 to 3 weeks for them to perform the routine perfectly.
Both hamster breeds can be considered a good pet because they are harmless compared to other pets. You might get bitten once or twice but it seldom happens as long as you play with them or train your hamster to behave well.
Just be patient and responsible as a pet owner so you'll have good relationship with your pet and you won't have a hard time handling your pet hamster.
Hamsters are largely furry so they are very huggable and cute. Not only are they cute, but they are also fun to look at because of their quick movement and brilliant eyes. Even by just observing them your day will surely brighten up. There are many types of hamsters that you can choose from and these hamsters have different characteristics that you should study so that you will know how to handle your chosen breed.
The two most popular types of hamsters are the Dwarf and Syrian hamsters. A Dwarf Hamster is smaller than a Syrian Hamster. It has short hair and is very lively which makes it difficult to train at times because you can seldom hold them for they will readily jump off your palm. Of course, when tamed early they can be taught how to walk along your shoulders or stay in your palm. It is recommended to use gloves when taking them for the first time because Dwarf hamsters will feel uncomfortable the first time you hold them.
On the other hand, Golden hamsters are larger and heavier in size and are less difficult to tame or handle although they are anti-social to other hamsters. They have longer hair which makes them cute to look at. If you also plan to train them to walk around your body, then you should put them in any part of your body then allow them to more around. If they decline to walk around then pick them up again and do the process again so they will get accustomed to it. It might take 2 to 3 weeks for them to perform the routine perfectly.
Both hamster breeds can be considered a good pet because they are harmless compared to other pets. You might get bitten once or twice but it seldom happens as long as you play with them or train your hamster to behave well.
Just be patient and responsible as a pet owner so you'll have good relationship with your pet and you won't have a hard time handling your pet hamster.
Why Pet Stairs Should Be There in Your Home
Are you seriously considering the idea of adopting a puppy? This could be a great idea really because a puppy can help you stay happy all through the day. However, you should also keep this in mind that caring for a puppy is as difficult as caring for a child. You have to feed him correctly, arrange nice home for him to sleep, and get nice toys to play with. At the same time, you need to ensure that your puppy grows in a healthy way, and that's when you can consider getting pet stairs.
One great thing about a puppy is that you can carry him in your lap, but it may not sound realistic to always carry him while you move around your house. You can make use of pet stairs to encourage your favorite pet to come and hop in your lap while you are sitting on a sofa. These stairs can serve as a perfect accessory required to keep your puppy happy. With these stairs, you provide your pet with a chance to get to his favorite spot without having to go through a lot of hassle.
These stairs are now available in a variety of shapes and styles, allowing you to get something that goes well with your existing home décor. Some of these stairs come with carpeted cover, while others come with plush fleece cover. Choosing plush fleece cover is a good idea because it not only looks good but is machine washable too.
Another great selling point for these stairs is that they are extremely lightweight and portable. You can take these stairs to any place you go. That's another reason why many people rely on these stairs when they want their pets to step up into trucks or cars. In addition to these, there are several health benefits of using these pet stairs. The interesting thing is that these benefits are not only for your pet but for you as well. For instance, your dogs or puppies enjoy healthier bones when they don't have to jump on and off a high place. Using these stairs takes pressure off their joints and keeps bone injuries and problems like arthritis and hip dysphasia at bay.
On the other hand, these stairs offer an amazing health benefit for you. With these, you don't have to bend down to lift your pet. You don't have to put extra pressure on your back, which means people with back problems can take a sigh of relief.
The bottom line is that pet stairs are important for all pets but they are necessary for puppies, old, and overweight dogs. However, you should ensure that you are selecting the best product, for which you need to choose the one that has sturdy construction. It should be lightweight and portable. And of course, it should be skid-proof, so that your pet may not slip while jumping on it. Keep all these points in mind and inspect closely before you make a final buying decision.
One great thing about a puppy is that you can carry him in your lap, but it may not sound realistic to always carry him while you move around your house. You can make use of pet stairs to encourage your favorite pet to come and hop in your lap while you are sitting on a sofa. These stairs can serve as a perfect accessory required to keep your puppy happy. With these stairs, you provide your pet with a chance to get to his favorite spot without having to go through a lot of hassle.
These stairs are now available in a variety of shapes and styles, allowing you to get something that goes well with your existing home décor. Some of these stairs come with carpeted cover, while others come with plush fleece cover. Choosing plush fleece cover is a good idea because it not only looks good but is machine washable too.
Another great selling point for these stairs is that they are extremely lightweight and portable. You can take these stairs to any place you go. That's another reason why many people rely on these stairs when they want their pets to step up into trucks or cars. In addition to these, there are several health benefits of using these pet stairs. The interesting thing is that these benefits are not only for your pet but for you as well. For instance, your dogs or puppies enjoy healthier bones when they don't have to jump on and off a high place. Using these stairs takes pressure off their joints and keeps bone injuries and problems like arthritis and hip dysphasia at bay.
On the other hand, these stairs offer an amazing health benefit for you. With these, you don't have to bend down to lift your pet. You don't have to put extra pressure on your back, which means people with back problems can take a sigh of relief.
The bottom line is that pet stairs are important for all pets but they are necessary for puppies, old, and overweight dogs. However, you should ensure that you are selecting the best product, for which you need to choose the one that has sturdy construction. It should be lightweight and portable. And of course, it should be skid-proof, so that your pet may not slip while jumping on it. Keep all these points in mind and inspect closely before you make a final buying decision.
Dog Stairs - How You Can Buy the Right One
Most dog owners would agree to the fact that it sometimes becomes extremely difficult to make their dog go in and come out of their vehicle. This is quite common in situations where you have a truck or recreation vehicle. However, if you are worried about this fact and trying extremely hard to find a better way, then the solution is to buy dog stairs.
Some dogs are afraid of heights, some cannot jump that high, and some are too old or too overweight to jump and get into a car or reach a higher spot. They need your assistance, and obviously, you don't want to bend all the way down to lift your dog all the time. This is when dog stairs save you from going through a lot of hassle. But, you should also bear in mind that several companies are now dealing in these stairs and they have a variety of options to help you make a choice. You are going to make a wrong decision unless you are familiar with a few important things.
Some stairs are really pretty, and they come with a potential to serve as a decoration piece. To make them gel with your current home décor, they are designed using carpets. But, if you are selecting these carpeted stairs, it is important to choose the ones that have removable carpets. This allows for easy cleaning and saves a lot of your precious time.
Speaking of time, there is another important point that needs attention. A feature you need to check at the time of buying is how difficult it is to assemble these stairs. Some stairs are quite amazingly designed and look extremely good in your house. But at the same time, it takes a lot of time to set them up for use. This is not a good sign, as you really don't want to waste your time when you need these stairs. Therefore, you need to ensure that the setup is not a problem and that you are selecting the one that snaps together in a few seconds. At the same time, you need to ensure that the stairs you are selecting are of the right height, or else they won't serve the purpose.
The crux of the matter is that if your dog is not all that comfortable getting in and out of your car or is in some kind of trouble getting around the house, you need dog stairs! What's more, using these stairs ensures that your dog doesn't have to face any issues related to bone injuries. It means these stairs come with a range of benefits, but the only thing you need to be careful about is that sometimes your dogs won't use them. Some dogs start using these dog stairs on the first day, while others need more training to utilize these stairs in a better way. So, work closely with your dog and while training him for other important things, don't forget to train him to use stairs whenever they need to go to a higher spot.
Some dogs are afraid of heights, some cannot jump that high, and some are too old or too overweight to jump and get into a car or reach a higher spot. They need your assistance, and obviously, you don't want to bend all the way down to lift your dog all the time. This is when dog stairs save you from going through a lot of hassle. But, you should also bear in mind that several companies are now dealing in these stairs and they have a variety of options to help you make a choice. You are going to make a wrong decision unless you are familiar with a few important things.
Some stairs are really pretty, and they come with a potential to serve as a decoration piece. To make them gel with your current home décor, they are designed using carpets. But, if you are selecting these carpeted stairs, it is important to choose the ones that have removable carpets. This allows for easy cleaning and saves a lot of your precious time.
Speaking of time, there is another important point that needs attention. A feature you need to check at the time of buying is how difficult it is to assemble these stairs. Some stairs are quite amazingly designed and look extremely good in your house. But at the same time, it takes a lot of time to set them up for use. This is not a good sign, as you really don't want to waste your time when you need these stairs. Therefore, you need to ensure that the setup is not a problem and that you are selecting the one that snaps together in a few seconds. At the same time, you need to ensure that the stairs you are selecting are of the right height, or else they won't serve the purpose.
The crux of the matter is that if your dog is not all that comfortable getting in and out of your car or is in some kind of trouble getting around the house, you need dog stairs! What's more, using these stairs ensures that your dog doesn't have to face any issues related to bone injuries. It means these stairs come with a range of benefits, but the only thing you need to be careful about is that sometimes your dogs won't use them. Some dogs start using these dog stairs on the first day, while others need more training to utilize these stairs in a better way. So, work closely with your dog and while training him for other important things, don't forget to train him to use stairs whenever they need to go to a higher spot.
Special Care Of Hamsters
Hamsters make really great pets, and for that reason, they've steadily gained popularity and appeal, ever since the capture of the first and best-known species, the "Golden Hamster" in the Syrian Desert in 1930. Most experts agree that just about all of the captive population of Syrian Hamsters are descended from that original litter.
As rodents, hamsters belong to the subfamily Cricetinae, which contains some 25 different species. So, indeed there is quite a variety to choose from, many of which will no doubt make a terrific companion pet, as the care of hamsters is certainly a joyful undertaking.
The best known of the hamster types, and most commonly kept as a pet, is the Syrian or Golden Hamster. Sometimes referred to as "fancy hamsters", the Syrians are also known as "teddy bear hamsters", "polar bear hamsters", "panda bear hamsters", "honey bear hamsters", "black bear hamsters", and "Dalmatian", all of which is a direct result of their particular coloration.
When buying a hamster, it's reassuring to know that they are particularly suited as a beginner pet, since the care of hamsters is a fairly easy endeavor. They typically have a temperament that is usually quite docile, dependent of course upon environment, genetics and the amount of interaction with humans. But, all in all, they're very friendly and become extremely tame when handled frequently. Additional "hamster facts" indicate they have relatively clean habits and are actually entertaining to watch as they do their daily work of storing food, working out on the exercise wheel and performing their housekeeping chores.
Mating hamsters can also provide a special experience if managed with care. And, when hamster babies have been handled with patience, tenderness and consistency they will generally remain highly docile and very rarely ever bite. It's only on those occasions when a hamster is suddenly startled or frightened that it will resort to biting. But, with care and gentle handling biting should never be an issue. A general consensus, among experts, claim the Black Bear and Golden Hamsters are among the easiest of the species to tame.
Dwarf hamsters are among the two dozen, or so, subfamilies and have gained tremendous popularity as a highly sought after pet. Preferred by some because of the smaller size, it's important to note that they still need a similar amount of maintenance as their larger cousins. However, their smaller size does make them a bit more fragile, skittish and quick to attempt an escape. It also demands a more secure cage or enclosure, as they can easily free themselves from environments designed to contain the larger Syrian variety. Among the most secure and specialized of homes, available now for the dwarf hamsters, is the tubular habitat, which is made of a type of heavy gauge plastic. Designed initially for the pet mice industry, the size of the plastic enclosures is perfectly suited for the miniature sized little dwarfs.
Exercise is important for any hamster, as they are naturally active little critters, so it's essential to provide them with the opportunity for physical activity. The most common appliance is the hamster wheel. Incredibly, there was at least one study that calculated the distance traveled, while running on the wheel, measured at five miles. It may surprise many to learn that the hamster is not actually nocturnal, being most active at night, but rather they are "crepuscular", which is a term used to describe some animals that are primarily active during twilight, that is at dawn and at dusk. This behavior is an instinctual pattern developed within the wild species to help avoid times when predators were most active. In the desert areas of their native habitat, it was also a way to avoid the intense heat of the afternoon sun.
Dwarf hamsters can surprisingly consume as much food as their larger Syrian cousins, primarily because of the need to support a much higher metabolism. It's important to always provide a continuous portion of fresh food, even though they are famous for taking food from their bowl and hiding or storing it within their nesting area. Equally important is a readily available supply of fresh water, which can most efficiently be provided via water bottle with a metal tip, which will prevent damage from chewing and potential leakage.
As members of the rodent family, the hamsters teeth will have that same characteristic of constantly growing and because of that, will need lots of toys made from a soft variety of wood, which can help them maintain that vitally important part of their anatomy. This will also ensure they avoid chewing on plastic toys and accessories, which could potentially cause injury when ingested.
As stated earlier, hamsters are instinctively clean animals and are certainly deserving of a tidy environment in which to exist, otherwise you may end up with sick hamsters, so it's incumbent upon any hamster caring owner to do their part and provide timely and consistent maintenance of the cage and its contents, as you'll surely guard against the majority of hamster illnesses. The most effective procedure is to, once a week, empty the hamsters cages of all the contents; wash everything with a mixture of very mild soap and warm water, rinsing everything very thoroughly; drying the cage, hamster toys and accessories completely before reassembly; and replace the hamsters bedding substrate with fresh material.
In closing, it's important to note that in a study ranking pets in a priority of most desired, the hamster came in at a solid number 3 position, just behind the dog and cat. They can be a great little pet, as witnessed by their extreme popularity and while they're not maintenance free, the joy and satisfaction of owning either a dwarf hamster or Syrian hamster, makes it all worthwhile, in your care of hamsters, throughout their lives of loving companionship.
For even more information and great resources, please visit Dwarf Hamster Care.
Copyright 2010 Walter Tekman. All rights reserved. Please feel free to share the entire contents of this article with your friends or post it on your site as long as it is left intact with all links unchanged, including this notice.
As rodents, hamsters belong to the subfamily Cricetinae, which contains some 25 different species. So, indeed there is quite a variety to choose from, many of which will no doubt make a terrific companion pet, as the care of hamsters is certainly a joyful undertaking.
The best known of the hamster types, and most commonly kept as a pet, is the Syrian or Golden Hamster. Sometimes referred to as "fancy hamsters", the Syrians are also known as "teddy bear hamsters", "polar bear hamsters", "panda bear hamsters", "honey bear hamsters", "black bear hamsters", and "Dalmatian", all of which is a direct result of their particular coloration.
When buying a hamster, it's reassuring to know that they are particularly suited as a beginner pet, since the care of hamsters is a fairly easy endeavor. They typically have a temperament that is usually quite docile, dependent of course upon environment, genetics and the amount of interaction with humans. But, all in all, they're very friendly and become extremely tame when handled frequently. Additional "hamster facts" indicate they have relatively clean habits and are actually entertaining to watch as they do their daily work of storing food, working out on the exercise wheel and performing their housekeeping chores.
Mating hamsters can also provide a special experience if managed with care. And, when hamster babies have been handled with patience, tenderness and consistency they will generally remain highly docile and very rarely ever bite. It's only on those occasions when a hamster is suddenly startled or frightened that it will resort to biting. But, with care and gentle handling biting should never be an issue. A general consensus, among experts, claim the Black Bear and Golden Hamsters are among the easiest of the species to tame.
Dwarf hamsters are among the two dozen, or so, subfamilies and have gained tremendous popularity as a highly sought after pet. Preferred by some because of the smaller size, it's important to note that they still need a similar amount of maintenance as their larger cousins. However, their smaller size does make them a bit more fragile, skittish and quick to attempt an escape. It also demands a more secure cage or enclosure, as they can easily free themselves from environments designed to contain the larger Syrian variety. Among the most secure and specialized of homes, available now for the dwarf hamsters, is the tubular habitat, which is made of a type of heavy gauge plastic. Designed initially for the pet mice industry, the size of the plastic enclosures is perfectly suited for the miniature sized little dwarfs.
Exercise is important for any hamster, as they are naturally active little critters, so it's essential to provide them with the opportunity for physical activity. The most common appliance is the hamster wheel. Incredibly, there was at least one study that calculated the distance traveled, while running on the wheel, measured at five miles. It may surprise many to learn that the hamster is not actually nocturnal, being most active at night, but rather they are "crepuscular", which is a term used to describe some animals that are primarily active during twilight, that is at dawn and at dusk. This behavior is an instinctual pattern developed within the wild species to help avoid times when predators were most active. In the desert areas of their native habitat, it was also a way to avoid the intense heat of the afternoon sun.
Dwarf hamsters can surprisingly consume as much food as their larger Syrian cousins, primarily because of the need to support a much higher metabolism. It's important to always provide a continuous portion of fresh food, even though they are famous for taking food from their bowl and hiding or storing it within their nesting area. Equally important is a readily available supply of fresh water, which can most efficiently be provided via water bottle with a metal tip, which will prevent damage from chewing and potential leakage.
As members of the rodent family, the hamsters teeth will have that same characteristic of constantly growing and because of that, will need lots of toys made from a soft variety of wood, which can help them maintain that vitally important part of their anatomy. This will also ensure they avoid chewing on plastic toys and accessories, which could potentially cause injury when ingested.
As stated earlier, hamsters are instinctively clean animals and are certainly deserving of a tidy environment in which to exist, otherwise you may end up with sick hamsters, so it's incumbent upon any hamster caring owner to do their part and provide timely and consistent maintenance of the cage and its contents, as you'll surely guard against the majority of hamster illnesses. The most effective procedure is to, once a week, empty the hamsters cages of all the contents; wash everything with a mixture of very mild soap and warm water, rinsing everything very thoroughly; drying the cage, hamster toys and accessories completely before reassembly; and replace the hamsters bedding substrate with fresh material.
In closing, it's important to note that in a study ranking pets in a priority of most desired, the hamster came in at a solid number 3 position, just behind the dog and cat. They can be a great little pet, as witnessed by their extreme popularity and while they're not maintenance free, the joy and satisfaction of owning either a dwarf hamster or Syrian hamster, makes it all worthwhile, in your care of hamsters, throughout their lives of loving companionship.
For even more information and great resources, please visit Dwarf Hamster Care.
Copyright 2010 Walter Tekman. All rights reserved. Please feel free to share the entire contents of this article with your friends or post it on your site as long as it is left intact with all links unchanged, including this notice.
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