PETnDOG

Advantage Once-A-Month Topical Flea Treatment for Cats

2011-04-14T22:07:00.000-07:00

Advantage Once-A-Month Topical Flea Treatment for Cats
Rid your home of pesky fleas with Advantage, a fast-working, month-long flea control for your pet. Killing fleas quickly is important, as it prevents them from laying eggs and helps reduce the risk of secondary problems, such as flea allergy dermatitis and tapeworms. Advantage stops biting fleas in less than 5 minutes, over 99 percent of flea larvae within 20 minutes, at least 98 percent of fleas within 12 hours, and 100 percent of chewing lice in just 1 week. Each application of waterproof Advantage keeps your cat free of pests for a full month. Flea bites can cause discomfort for your pet, lead to skin infections and allergic skin reactions causing irritation, and can even transmit other disease-causing organisms. Safe for all cats 8 weeks or older that weigh between 9 and 18 pounds. Includes a 6-month supply.

Merial Frontline Plus Flea and Tick Control for Dogs

2011-04-14T22:05:00.000-07:00

Merial Frontline Plus Flea and Tick Control for Dogs
As the top choice of veterinarians, Merial Frontline Plus provides fast-acting, long-lasting flea and tick control for your dog. Within 12 hours of application, Frontline Plus should not only kill all of the fleas, but also break the life cycle to prevent future infestations. It’s proven to kill all life stages of 4 major tick species, including those which may carry Lyme disease. When you apply Frontline Plus, the active ingredient, fibronil, is stored in the oil glands beneath the skin. It is then distributed continuously to the skin and hair of your pet through the hair follicles. Frontline Plus offers total protection for 30 days. It’s waterproof, so your dog remains protected during and after baths and rainstorms. For dogs 45 to 88 pounds.

SportDOG Rechargeable NoBark 10R Bark Control Collar

2011-03-04T23:25:00.000-08:00

SportDOG Rechargeable NoBark 10R Bark Control Collar Description
Train your dog to stop excessive barking easily and painlessly. The SportDOG Rechargeable NoBark 10R Bark Control Collar offers PerfectBark technology that requires both the vibration and the sound of a bark to trigger a correction, ensuring your dog is never confused by a correction occurring accidentally. Choose 1 of 3 correction modes that fits your dog’s temperament: Temperament Learning, Progressive Correction, or User-Selected Correction modes. 10 correction levels are available within each mode. If your dog continues to misbehave or disobey, increase the correction to the next highest level. Both methods are safe and harmless. Monitor the correction level and battery condition using the 3-color indicator light. The waterproof collar is
submersible up to 25 feet, per NEMA 6P and IP67 standards. A long-life rechargeable battery, a charger, an operating guide, and a lifetime limited warranty are also included with the collar.
SportDOG Rechargeable NoBark 10R Bark Control Collar more details

NOZTONOZ Sof-Krate Indoor/Outdoor Pet Home

2011-02-24T00:45:00.000-08:00

Product Description
Take your pet anywhere you want to go easily and in style. The NOZTONOZ Sof-Krate is easy to carry and sets up anywhere in just seconds. It’s made from new heavy-duty tight-weave mesh fabric that’s durable and designed to stand up to your pet’s dirty paws. The heavy-duty mesh panels provide excellent ventilation. Entry doors on top, in front, and on the sides give you instant access to your animal, and the extra-strong steel frame and rounded corners keep your pet and your home and auto interiors safe and sound. The water-resistant base helps make cleanup a breeze. Ideal for pets up to 70 pounds. Measures 36 x 24 x 27 inches. More details

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Kyjen Hide-A-Squirrel Puzzle Toy for Dogs

2011-01-03T05:13:00.000-08:00

Prevent your dog from becoming bored with the Kyjen Hide-A-Squirrel. It helps develop your pet’s intelligence and puzzle-solving skills too. Just hide the 3 included soft plush squeaker squirrels inside the plush tree trunk. Your pet will have a blast poking around the trunk figuring out how to remove the squirrels. After your dog removes the squirrels, just place them back inside the trunk for more deductive fun. No assembly required. Great for dogs of all ages and breeds. The plush material is durable enough to withstand many hours of rough play.

More Kyjen PP01056 Hide-A-Squirrel Pet Toy, Large Detail

American Akita

2010-12-21T00:36:00.000-08:00

The American Akita, often called simply Akita, is a dog breed from the mountainous northern regions of Japan. The American Akita is considered a separate breed from the Akita Inu (Japanese Akita) in many countries around the world, with the notable exceptions of the United States and Canada. In the US and Canada, both the American Akita and the Akita Inu are considered a single breed with differences in type rather than two separate breeds. Note that in 2005 the FCI-designation Great Japanese Dog was officially changed to American Akita.

The Akita today is a unique combination of dignity, courage, alertness, and devotion to its family. It is extraordinarily affectionate and loyal with family and friends, territorial about its property, and can be reserved
with strangers. It is feline in its actions; it is not unusual for an Akita to clean its face after eating, to preen its kennel mate, and to be fastidious in the house.

Because it is a large, powerful dog, the Akita is certainly not a breed for everyone. Their background gives them a strong independent streak that can make Akitas unreliable off-lead and more challenging in obedience activities. The Akita thrives on the love and respect of its master and, with constant reinforcement training and a little creativity, can be a very good worker and a dream off-lead.

The Akita was never bred to live or work in groups like many hound and sporting breeds. Instead, they lived and worked alone or in pairs, a preference reflected today. Akitas tend to take a socially dominant role with other dogs, and thus caution must be used in situations when Akitas are likely to be around other dogs, especially unfamiliar ones. In particular, Akitas tend to be less tolerant of dogs of the same sex. For this reason, Akitas, unless highly socialized, are not generally well-suited for off-leash dog parks. The Akita is docile, intelligent, courageous and fearless, careful and very affectionate with its family. Sometimes spontaneous, it needs a firm, confident, consistent pack leader, without which the dog will be very willful and may become very aggressive to other dogs and animals.
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

PetSafe Heated Wellness Sleeper

2010-12-18T00:16:00.000-08:00

The PetSafe Heated Wellness Sleeper pumps out just enough low-level therapeutic heat to give your pets the comfortable sleep of their lives. Talk about feeling cozy and protected! The micro-suede sleeper is lined with ultra-plush terrycloth and filled with orthopedic foam for delightful warmth. A safe 12-volt power adapter and detachable chew-resistant cord provide the heat, and the materials keep it nestled inside. Includes a removable machine-washable cover. Measures 23 x 18 x 8 inches. The power adapter and cord fit out of the way inside a pocket attachment.

Borzoi

2008-02-23T23:06:00.000-08:00

Borzoi From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The Borzoi is a breed of domestic dog (canis lupus familiaris) also called the Russian Wolfhound. They have medium-length, slightly curly hair and are similar in shape to Greyhounds. They are a member of the sighthound family.
The plural Borzois may be found in dictionaries. However, the Borzoi Club of America asserts Borzoi is the preferred form for both singular and plural. At least one manual of grammatical style rules that the breed name should not be capitalized except at the beginning of a sentence; again, breed fanciers usually differ, and capitalize it wherever found.

"Borzaya" ("quick dog") is a Russian term for various types of native sighthound. The Russkaya Psovaya Borzaya (Psovoi - the longhaired borzoi) is the dog we know as Borzoi. The system by which Russians over the ages named their sightdogs was a series of describing terms, not actual names, which makes the use of Borzoi for the Psovaya a mistake made by the first Western exporters of the breed. "Psovaya" means "longhaired", just as "Hortaya" (as in Hortaya Borzaya) means shorthaired. Other Russian sightdog breeds are e.g. "Stepnaya Borzaya" (from the steppe), called "Stepnoi" or "Krimskaya Borzaya" (from the Krim), called "Krimskoi".

Appearance

Borzoi can come in any color or color combination. As a general approximation, "long haired greyhound" is a useful description. The long top-coat is silky and quite flat, with varying degrees of waviness or curling. The soft undercoat thickens in winter or cold climates but is shed in hot weather to prevent overheating. In its texture and distribution over the body, the Borzoi coat is unique.
The Borzoi is a large variety of sighthound, with males frequently reaching in excess of 100 pounds (45 kg). Males should stand at least 28 inches (about 70 centimeters) at the shoulder, while females shouldn't be less than 26 inches (about 66 centimeters). Despite their size the overall impression is of streamlining and grace, with a curvy shapeliness and compact strength. The Borzoi might be said to be the Porsche of sighthounds, if the Irish Wolfhound is the Range Rover.

Temperament
The Borzoi is a quiet, intelligent, moderately active, independent dog. They adapt very well to suburban living, provided they have a spacious yard and regular opportunities for free exercise.
Most adult Borzoi are almost silent, barking only very rarely. They are gentle, sensitive dogs with gracious house-manners and a natural respect for humans. Borzoi should never display dominance over people. However they are sometimes nervous around children and need to be introduced to them at an early age if they are to be the pet in a young family.

Many Borzoi do well in competitive obedience and agility trials with the right kind of training, but it is not an activity that comes naturally to them. They are fast learners who quickly become bored with repetitive, apparently pointless, activity, and they can be very stubborn when they are not properly motivated. Like other sighthounds they cannot understand or tolerate harsh treatment or training based on punishment, and will be extremely unhappy if raised voices and threats are a part of their daily life.

These are dogs used to pursue, or "course," game and they have a strong instinct to chase things that run from them. Borzoi are built for speed and can cover incredible distances in a very short time. They need a fully-fenced yard if automobile traffic is present within several miles of their home. For off-lead exercise they need a very large field or park, either fully fenced or well away from any traffic, to ensure their safety.
Borzoi do not have strong territorial drives compared to breeds such as Mastiffs and German Shepherd Dogs, and they are definitely not to be thought of as a "fighting" or "guard dog". They cannot be relied on to raise the alarm upon sighting a human intruder.

Generally, Borzoi should not be territorially aggressive to other domestic dogs. Against wolves and other wild canids, they are born with specialized skills, but these are quite different from the dog-fighting instincts seen in some breeds. It is quite common for Borzoi at play to course (run down) another dog, seizing it by the neck and holding it immobile. Young pups do this with their littermates, trading off as to who is the prey. It is a specific hunting behavior, not a fighting or territorial domination behavior.

Borzoi can be raised very successfully to live with cats and other small animals provided they are introduced to them at a young age. Some, however, will possess the hunting instinct to such a degree that they find it impossible not to chase a cat that is moving quickly. The instinct is triggered by movement and much depends on how the cat behaves.

Health
Life expectancy is 10 to 12 years, females usually living longer than males.[citation needed] Exceptional individuals have lived to be more than 16 years of age. Dogs that are physically fit and vigorous in their youth through middle age are more vigorous and healthy as elderly dogs, all other factors being equal. In most parts of the world, bloat and road accidents seem to be the most frequent causes of premature death.

Like its native relative the Hortaya Borzaya, the Borzoi is basically a very sound breed. OCD, hip and elbow dysplasia have remained almost unknown, as were congenital eye and heart diseases before the 1970s. However, in some countries modern breeding practices have unfortunately introduced a few problems.

As with other very deep-chested breeds, gastric torsion is the most common serious health problem in the Borzoi. Also known as bloat, this life-threatening condition is believed to be anatomical rather than strictly genetic in origin. Many Borzoi owners recommend feeding the dog from a raised platform instead of placing the food-dish on the ground, and making sure that the dog rests quietly for several hours after eating, as the most reliable way to prevent bloat.
Less common are cardiac problems including cardiomyopathy and cardiac arhythmia disorders. A controversy exists as to the presence of progressive retinal atrophy in the breed. A condition identified as Borzoi Retinopathy is seen in some individuals, usually active dogs, which differs from progressive retinal atrophy in several ways. First, it is unilateral, and rarely seen in animals less than 3 years of age; second, a clear cut pattern of inheritance has not been demonstrated; and finally, most affected individuals do not go blind.

Correct nutrition during puppyhood is also debatable for Borzoi. These dogs naturally experience enormous growth surges in the first year or two of their lives. It is now widely accepted that forcing even faster growth by feeding a highly concentrated, high-energy diet is dangerous for skeletal development, causing unsoundness and increased tendency to joint problems and injury. Being built primarily for speed, Borzoi do not carry large amounts of body fat or muscle, and therefore have a rather different physiology to other dogs of similar size (such as the Newfoundland (dog), St Bernard (dog) or Alaskan Malamute). Laboratory-formulated diets designed for a generic "large" or "giant" breed are unlikely to take the needs of the big sighthounds into account.

The issues involved in raw feeding may be particularly relevant to tall, streamlined breeds such as the Borzoi. It is interesting to note that the Hortaya Borzaya, undoubtedly a very close relative, is traditionally raised on a meagre diet of oats and table scraps. The Hortaya is also said to be intolerant of highly concentrated kibble feeds. Basically, a lean body weight in itself is nothing to be concerned about, and force-feeding of healthy young Borzoi is definitely not recommended.

History
It was long thought that Saluki type sighthounds were originally brought to Russia from Byzantium in the south about the 9th and 10th centuries and again later by the Mongol invaders from the East. However, now that the archeological archives and research results of the former USSR are open to scientists, it has become quite clear that the primal sightdog type evolved between the lower Kazakhstan part of Altai and the Afghan plains, and that the earliest actual sightdog breeds were the plains Afghans and the Taigan.

These ancient breeds then migrated south (founding the Tazi/Saluki branch) and west (founding the Stepnaya, Krimskaya and Hortaya branches) to develop into breeds adapted to those regions. This was a slow process which happened naturally through normal spreading of trade, with the silk and spice trade via the Silk Road being the prime vector.
The more modern Psovaya Borzaya was founded on Stepnaya, Hortaya and the Ukrainian-Polish version of old Hort. There were also imports of western sightdog breeds to add to the height and weight. It was crossed as well with the Russian Laika specifically and singularly to add resistance against northern cold and a longer and thicker coat than the southern sightdogs were equipped with.

All of these foundation types - Tazi, Hortaya, Stepnaya, Krimskaya and Hort - already possessed the instincts and agility necessary for hunting and bringing down wolves.
The Psovoi was popular with the Tsars before the 1917 revolution. For centuries, Psovoi could not be purchased but only given as gifts from the Tsar. The most famous breeder was Grand Duke Nicholas Nicolaievich of Russia, who bred countless Psovoi at Perchino, his private estate.

The Russian concept of hunting trials was instituted during the era of the Tsars. As well as providing exciting sport, the tests were used for selecting borzoi breeding stock; only the quickest and most intelligent hunting dogs went on to produce progeny. For the aristocracy these trials were a well-organized ceremony, sometimes going on for days, with the borzoi accompanied by mounted hunters and Foxhounds on the Russian steppe. Hares and other small game were by far the most numerous kills, but the hunters especially loved to test their dogs on wolf. If a wolf was sighted, the hunter would release a team of two or three borzoi. The dogs would pursue the wolf, attack its neck from both sides, and hold it until the hunter arrived. The classical killing was by the human hunter with a knife. Wolf trials are still a regular part of the hunting diploma for all Russian sightdog breeds of the relevant type, either singly or in pairs or triplets, in their native country.

In the 1917 Revolution, large numbers of native Psovoi were destroyed by the revolutionaries. The Tsars had turned them into a symbol of affluence and tyranny, and they were not welcomed into the new world of the Soviet Union. Some noblemen took it upon themselves to shoot their own dogs rather than allow them to fall into the hands of militants and be cruelly tortured. However, the Psovoi survived along with the other borzaya variants in the Russian countryside.
In the late 1940s a Soviet soldier named Constantin Esmont made detailed records of the various types of borzoi dogs he found in the Cossack villages. Esmont's amazing pictures were recently published and can be viewed by clicking on the link below.

Esmont was concerned that the distinct types of borzaya were in danger of degenerating without a controlled system of breeding. He convinced the Soviet government that borzoi were a valuable asset to the hunters who supported the fur industry and henceforth, their breeding was officially regulated. To this day short-haired Hortaya Borzaya are highly valued hunting dogs on the steppes, while the long-haired Psovaya Borzaya, still carrying some of the stigma of its association with the old White Russia, has become more common as a decorative companion.
Exports of Borzoi to other countries were extremely rare during the Soviet era. However enough had been taken to England, Scandinavia, Western Europe and America in the late 19th century for the breed to establish itself outside its native country.

Saluki

2008-02-23T00:48:00.000-08:00

Saluki From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The saluki is perhaps the oldest known breed of domesticated dog. As a purebreed type, its history can be traced back almost 5000 years. A study published in the May 21, 2004 issue of Science confirms the Saluki's antiquity through DNA analysis identifying it as one of the earliest breeds to diverge from wolves.
Widely admired for its beauty, speed, and endurance, the Saluki historically traveled throughout the Middle East with nomadic desert tribes over an area stretching from the Sahara to the Caspian Sea. As a result, different Saluki subtypes, varying mostly in color and coat, can be found across this widely scattered area.
The Saluki is a sighthound bred especially for grace and speed. A NOVA episode titled "Dogs and More Dogs", asserts that the Saluki is able to outrun any other land mammal over a three-mile course. Although the greyhound is widely viewed as being the fastest dog breed with a top speed of around 45 mph, the Saluki is said to be faster, with top speeds of 48 mph. Testing this has proved difficult as Salukis show no interest in electric hares and won't race Greyhounds on a track. However, in as much as their original use was for hunting desert gazelles with top speeds of over 43 mph, the speed claim could be true.
History
The Saluki has historically served as a courser, a speedy hunting dog that operated in packs. They often hunted in tandem with falcons which locate the prey and for the dogs to run down.
Salukis appear on the Egyptian tombs of 2100 B.C. The dogs were so esteemed that they were often mummified like the bodies of the Pharaohs themselves. Numerous Saluki remains have been found in the ancient tombs of the Upper Nile region.
In Muslim cultures, dogs are often seen as dirty, but the Saluki was treasured by the Bedouin for the "Kiss of Allah" or white spot on the dog's chest. The Bedouin value them, breeding them for beauty and hunting qualities. Salukis are not viewed as being "unclean" and often slept in the tents with their owners to be protected from the heat of the day and the cold of the night. In Arabic-speaking countries most dogs are referred to as "kalb" (meaning 'dog') but Salukis are referred to as "saluki" because of their royal background, their 'clean' living habits, and because of their high cost and sentimental value.
Salukis were first brought into England in 1840. There was no real interest however, until the Hon. Florence Amherst imported the first Arabian Saluki in 1895 from the kennels of Prince Abdulla in Transjordan. King Abdullah's hounds were probably originally from Kurdish areas of Syria.
As is the case with some other pedigree breeds in the United States, including the Basenji and Portuguese Podengo, the current domestic population of Salukis is descended from a small number of founders introduced into the country within the last 100 years, and must be carefully mated to avoid inbreeding. However, the original dogs imported into the US came from throughout the whole Middle East, a vast geographical area, unlike most other breeds that come from very small areas, so, worldwide, Salukis have the largest genetic base among purebreds. Recently, the AKC (American Kennel Club) has allowed the third generation of COO (Country of Origin) salukis to be registered after inspections by recognized judges so the DNA base will broaden.
Temperament
A true Saluki retains the qualities of hunting hounds and may seem reserved and aloof. They learn quickly but can get bored with repetition, so training sessions should be short and varied. Sensitive and intelligent, the Saluki should never be trained using force or hard-handed methods.
Salukis need regular exercise, but behave quietly indoors. They are usually quiet and don't bark unless there is a reason, but they will "sing" (A high pitched howl, with oscillating volume) when they feel that something is wrong or when a member of the family is away for a long period of time. They get along well with children, but the family must respect the dog's need for quiet and peacefull time alone to rest. Salukis have a fairly long life span, living an average of 12-13 years.
According to the National Veterinary Scholars, Salukis should not be allowed off leash. Their strong prey drive can lead them to chase deer and other animals, and they can be difficult to stop, seemingly becoming "drunk" with running. The Saluki Club of America recommends a fence of at least five feet tall, as a Saluki can very easily jump anything lower than that.
Health
The Saluki is a very healthy breed. The biggest problem to worry about is their sensitivity to anesthesia as a result of their low levels of body fat.
The Saluki tends to have large litters. Litters of ten puppies are not at all unusual.

Dachshund

2008-02-16T23:32:00.000-08:00

Dachshund From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The dachshund is a short-legged, elongated dog breed of the hound family. The breed's name is German and literally means "badger dog," from (der) Dachs, badger, and (der) Hund, dog. The standard size was developed to scent,chase, and flush badgers and other burrow-dwelling animals, while the miniature was to hunt rabbits. Due to the long, narrow build, they are sometimes referred to as a wiener dog, hot dog, or sausage dog. Notwithstanding the German origin of the dachshund's name, within Germany the breed is known—both formally and informally—as the Dackel or Teckel.
Appearance and Size
Dachshunds come in three sizes. A full-grown standard dachshund averages 16 to 28 pounds. (7 to 12.7 kg), while the miniature variety typically weighs less than 11 lb. The kaninchen weighs 7-9 lb. (5 kg).
According to kennel club standards, the miniature variety differs from the full-size only by size and weight, thus offspring from miniature parents must never weigh more than the miniature standard to be considered a miniature as well.
H.L.Mencken said that "A dachshund is a half-dog high and a dog-and-a-half long," which is their main claim to fame, although many poems and songs refer to them as "two dogs long." This characteristic has led them to be quite a recognizable breed and featured in many a joke and cartoon, particularly The Far Side by Gary Larson.
Coat and color
Dachshunds have a wide range of colouration. Dominant colors and patterns are red and black-and-red (often referred to as black-and-tan). Also occurring are cream, blue, wild boar, chocolate brown, fawn, brindle, piebald, and a lighter "boar" red. The reds range from coppers to deep rusts, with somewhat common black hairs peppered along the back, tail, face, and ear edges, lending much character and an almost burnished appearance; this is often desirable and is referred to among breeders and enthusiasts as a "stag" or an "overlay."
Solid black and solid chocolate-brown dachshunds occur and, even though dogs with such coloration are often considered handsome, the colors are nonstandard – that is, the dogs are disqualified from conformance competitions in the U.S. and Canada. Additionally, according to the Conformation judges of the DCA (Dachshund Club of America), and the AKC (American Kennel Club) assert the Piebald pattern a nonstandard and has voted to dismiss this pattern from competition.
Light-colored dachshunds usually sport light grey, light hazel, green or blue eyes, rather than the various shades of brown. They can also have eyes of two different colors; in rare cases, such as the double-dappled coloration (called merle in other dog breeds), dachshunds can have a blue and brown eye. Color aside, this eye condition has led to the double-dapple coat being disfavored among breeders and owners.
Dachshunds come in three coat varieties. The most common and associated with the dachshund is the smooth coated dog. The next most recognised is the long coat. The wire-haired dachshund is least common. Many people cannot recognize wire-hairs as dachshunds and can be mistaken as other kinds of dogs.
Temperament
Dachshunds are playful, fun dogs, known for their propensity to chase small animals, birds and tennis balls with great determination and ferocity. Many dachshunds are strong-headed or stubborn, making them a challenge to train. Dachshunds have been known to have a liking to dig holes in the garden, or chase small animals such as birds, squirrels, or lizards. They have a particularly loud bark, making dachshunds good watchdogs. Dachshunds are known for their devotion and loyalty to their owners. If left alone many dachshunds will whine until they have companionship. Some dachshunds are prone to separation anxiety and may chew objects in the house to relieve stress.
According to the American Kennel Club’s breed standards, "the dachshund is clever, lively and courageous to the point of rashness, persevering in above and below ground work, with all the senses well-developed. Any display of shyness is a serious fault."Their temperament and body language give the impression that they do not know or care about their relatively small and comical stature. Indulged dachshunds may become snappy. Fanciers of the breed often say that "Dachshunds are big dogs in small packages".
The dachshund's temperament may vary greatly from dog to dog. Seemingly most dachshunds do not like unfamiliar people, and will growl or bark in response. Although the dachshund is generally an energetic dog, some are laid back. Due to this dog's behavior, it is not the dog for everyone. A bored dachshund will become destructive. If raised improperly, dachshunds can become aggressive or fearful. They require a caring owner that understands their need to have entertainment and exercise. Some may not be good with children, and they may bite an unfamiliar child.
Health
The breed is known to have spinal problems, especially intervertebral disk disease (IVDD), due in part to an extremely long spinal column and short rib cage. The risk of injury can be worsened by obesity, which places greater strain on the vertebrae. In order to prevent injury, it is recommended that dachshunds be discouraged from jumping and taking stairs, and encouraged to instead take the elevator (though some veterinarians say that slow stair-climbing is unlikely to lead to injury). (Holding the dog properly is important, with both front and rear portions of the body fully supported.) However, according to the same article above, dachshunds that climb stairs regularly may actually be less prone to IVDD, probably because the exercise helps to keep them fitter and healthier, and positive correlations were found between physically fit dogs and a lower incidence of IVDD.
As it has become increasingly apparent that the occurrence and severity of these spinal problems, or intervertebral disk disease, is largely hereditary, responsible breeders are working to eliminate this characteristic in the breed. Treatment consists of various combinations of crate confinement and courses of anti-inflammatory medications (steroids). Serious cases may require surgery to remove the troublesome disk contents. Some double dapples have problems with deafness and blindness. Therefore they need an owner who understands a disabled dog's special needs. Generally responsible breeders refuse to breed this coloration because of this.
History
Some have theorized that the early roots of the dachshund go back to Ancient Egypt, where engravings were made featuring short-legged hunting dogs. But in its modern incarnation, the dachshund is a creation of European breeders, and includes elements of German,French, and English hounds and terriers. Dachshunds have been kept by royal courts all over Europe, including that of Queen Victoria, who was particularly enamored of the breed.
The first verifiable references to the dachshund, originally named the "Tachs Kriecher" (badger crawler) or "Tachs Krieger" (badger warrior), came from books written in the early 1700s. Prior to that, there exist references to "badger dogs" and "hole dogs", but these likely refer to purposes rather than to specific breeds. The original German dachshunds were larger than the modern full-size variety, weighing between 30 and 40 lb. (14 to 18 kg), and originally came in straight-legged and crook-legged varieties (the modern dachshund is descended from the latter). Though the breed is famous for its use in exterminating badgers and badger-baiting, dachshunds were also commonly used for rabbit and fox hunting, for locating wounded deer, and in packs were known to hunt game as large as wild boar and as fierce as the wolverine.
Double-dapple dachshunds are prone to eye disease and therefore are rare. It is generally believed that the breed was introduced to the United States between 1879 and 1885
Symbol of Germany
Dachshunds have traditionally been viewed as a symbol of Germany, despite their pan-European heritage. During World War I many Americans began referring to dachshunds as "liberty pups." Plitical catoonists commonly used the image of the dachshund to ridicule Germany. The stigma of the association was revived to a lesser extent during World War II, though it was comparatively short-lived. German Field Marshal Erwin Rommel was known for keeping dachshunds.
For this association with Germany, the dachshund was chosen to be the first official mascot for the 1972 Summer Olympics, with the name Waldi.
The flap-down ears and famous curved tail of the dachshund have deliberately been bred into the dog. In the case of the ears, this is so that grass seeds, dirt and other matter do not enter into the ear canal. The curved tail is dual-purposed: to be seen more easily in long grass and, in the case of burrowing dachshunds, to help haul the dog out if it becomes stuck in a burrow.

Sloughi

2008-02-16T04:17:00.000-08:00

Sloughi From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The Sloughi is a breed of dog, specifically a member of the sighthound family. Sloughis are likely closely related to the Azawakh, but not to the Saluki.
Appearance
The Sloughi belongs to the Sighthound family. In appearance, it is a short-haired, middle-sized, strong sighthound with drooping ears. Its expression is often described to be melancholy. Its muscular system is "dry", that is, the Sloughi has flat and long muscles, which must not be as brawny as those of Greyhounds or Whippets, even when in excellent physical condition. Its back is nearly horizontal (the lumbar region must be slightly vaulted). It has a moderate angulation and a tucked up underline.
The Sloughi's eyes are ideally dark, though sometimes of amber colour. Its coat colour varies from light-sand, red-sand, red- or light-sand brindled, to sand or brindled with a black mantle, with or without a black mask. According to the standard, a Sloughi may only have a small white patch on its chest. Larger white spots on the chest or white toes and boots are excluding for breeding. Its walk is elastic and light-footed.
The Sloughi's general view is compact and strong; it may not be too dainty.
Temperament
It is of sensitive nature yet is an alert and intelligent hound. It is said that Sloughis have a mighty longing for moving and that is not easy to keep them in flats with families; however, a Sloughi does not need more exercise than other dogs of similar size. It loves variety, walking on the leash, romping in the countryside, and racing. A Sloughi is faithful to his owner and it needs him close by. Sloughis are easy to bring up and to train, if you know how to do it. Because the Sloughi is very sensitive, its training shouldn't be oppressive, and any punishment should be omitted. What it likes is a friendly confirmation of its behaviour.
Health
The Sloughi is largely unchanged from ancient times, and so retains a robust genetic health. Only a few genetic conditions have been noted in the breed, in particular Progessive retinal atrophy (PRA). Fortunately the Sloughi is one of the breeds in whom this condition can be tested for with a small blood sample, and breeders are working to eliminate it from the gene pool. Like all sighthounds, the Sloughi is very sensitive to anesthesia, and can be sensitive to vaccines, worming, and other medications - so these routine treatments should be spaced apart instead of given all at once. Otherwise the breed tends to enjoy excellent health into old age.
History
The Sloughi's origin is mostly a matter of speculation. It is thought that Sloughis originally came from the Orient or from what is today Ethiopia (the tributes to the Pharaohs included smooth Lop-eared Sighthounds from Nubia, south of Egypt). The Sloughi is one of the two African Sighthound breeds recognized by the FCI. On old fragments of earthenware (about 3000 B.C.), a short-haired sighthound with lop ears was discovered that looks like a Sloughi. Today, the Sloughi is found only in Morocco,Algeria,Tunisia,Libya. It is not to be confused with the smooth Saluki of the Arabian peninsula and the Middle East, which is a variety of the Saluki breed. It is also not to be confused with the smooth Afghan Hound which is a variery of the Afghan Hound. The Sloughi was and is still used for hunting in its native countries, and is also a reliable guarding dog.

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Ibizan Hound

2008-02-16T00:54:00.000-08:00

Ibizan Hound From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The Ibizan Hound, pronounced "I-bee-than" or "I-beez-an", also called Podenco Ibicenco in Spanish or Ca Eivissenc in Catalan, is an agile, deer-like dog of the hound family. There are two hair types of the breed: smooth and wire. The more commonly seen type is the smooth. Some consider there to be a third type, long, but most consider the longhair to be a variation of the wire.
Appearance
The Ibizan Hound is an elegant and agile breed with an athletic and attractive outline and a ground-covering springy trot. Though graceful in appearance, it has good bone girth and is a rugged/hardy breed. Its large upright ears - a hallmark of the breed - are broad at the base and frame a long and elegant headpiece. The neck is long and lean. It has a unique front assembly with well laid back shoulders and straight upper arm. In this way it is different from most other sighthound breeds in construction. It comes in both smooth and wire coated varieties. It is either red or white or a combination of red and white. Its nose is flesh colored, as are its ears, eye rims, and pads of feet. Its eyes are a striking amber color and have an alert and intelligent expression. The Ibizan may range in height from 24 to 29 inches and weigh from 45 to 65 lbs, males being larger than females.
Temperament
Ibizan Hounds are very intelligent, active, and engaging by nature. They are true "clowns" of the dog world, delighting in entertaining their people with their antics. Though somewhat independent and stubborn at times, they do take well to training if positive methods are used, but will balk at punitive training methods. They are generally quiet, but will alarm bark if necessary, so they make good watch dogs. They are sensitive hounds, and very good around children and other dogs alike. They generally make good house dogs, but are active and athletic, therefore need a lot of daily exercise. They do not make good kennel dogs.
Ibizan Hounds are "escapologists." They are able to jump incredible heights from a stand still. As such, they need very tall fences. They also have been known to climb. They have a strong prey drive, therefore they cannot be trusted off lead unless in a safely enclosed area.
Health
The Ibizan Hound is typical of the Hound Group in that it rarely suffers from hereditary illness. Minor health concerns for the breed include seizures and allergies; very rarely, one will see axonal dystrophy, cataract,retinal dysplasia and deafness in the breed.Ibizan Hound owners should have their dogs' eyes tested by a veterinarian before breeding. Ibizan Hounds are sensitive to barbiturate anesthesia, and typically live between 12 and 14 years.
History
For many years, this breed was considered one of the ancient dog breed. It was believed the Ibizan Hound originated in ancient Egypt, as pictures that appear to be of Ibizan hounds have been seen on the walls of ancient pyramids.
However, according to Elaine Ostrander, a geneticist at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center and University of Washington, recent DNA analysis reveals that this breed is actually a recent construction, bred to resemble an older form. In a study directed by Dr. Ostrander, with the aid of her colleague, Dr. Leonid Kruglyak, "they have found genetic variations that allow them to distinguish among 85 dog breeds and to identify an individual dog's breed with 99 percent accuracy," according to Mark Derr, a science writer for the New York Times.
"We can assign a dog to a breed, but we can't tell what behavior it will have," asserts Ostrander. "There is huge variation in behavior between dogs within breeds." The results of the study, published in May 2004 in Science magazine, may help in the study of disease, both canine and human, because certain breeds are prone to some of the same genetic diseases as humans.
The breed is believed to have originated in Muslim Spain and was used to hunt rabbits and other small game on the Balearic Island of Ibiza. The Ibizan Hound is a fast dog that can hunt on all types of terrain, working by sight, sound, and scent. Spanish hunters run these dogs in mostly female packs, with perhaps a male or two, as the female is the better hunter. This breed is similar to the Pharaoh Hound, but the Ibizan Hound is larger and can have a multicolored hair pattern. The Ibizan Hound was fully recognized by the AKC in 1979

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Tornjak

2008-01-27T00:13:00.000-08:00

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

The Tornjak ("tor" is Bosnian and Croatian for pen) is a mountain sheep dog native to Bosnia and Herzegovina and Croatia.

History
Tornjaks belong to the rare livestock protection breeds. The Tornjak is one of the very old breeds from ancient times, and it was mentioned in handwritten papers for the first time in the 9th century, in a Catholic Church's document. The breed was later mentioned in the 11th and 14th century. Tornjaks from these documents is the very same as they are today, except for the name of the breed, which was Hrvatski pas planinac, meaning Croatian dog from the mountain. The dogs in these documents was described entirely equal (function and exterior) as they are today: a protective guarding dog which keep and watch all what their humans ask from them, but highly intelligent and selected without sufficient aggression, and they are pleasant against strangers that they meet outside of their own property. It is considered that dogs of the Tornjak's type have existed in Dinaridi (region around Mountain Dinara, Croatia) from the Roman times. The Romans used their dogs as war and guardian dogs, as well as for fighting in the arena. Although the Tornjak is a very old breed, with the vanishing of nomadic sheep-breeding also the Tornjak vanished gradually. In the early 70's, a group of cinologs began to collect the remained dogs which best corresponded to the old writings about their race.The first written tracks about the existence of Tornjaks date back to the 9th century. Description given to the Tornjak were found in the writings of Peter Horvat bishop of Đakovo, Croatia, which date back to the year 1374, those descriptions were also found in the writings of Peter Lukić canon of the Đakovo diocese, which were written in 1752. The term Tornjak evolves from the Croatian word "tor", which means an enclosed area where sheep live in. Still today, these dogs are called Torashi in the surroundings of the city of Sinj and on the Kamešnica- mountains, whereas the shepherds of the Dinara-mountains call them Dinarci.According to research, Tornjak is most likely the descendant of the Tibetan Mastiff, or from where the today's Iran is. The environment has created a healthy and strong dog, with modest needs for food and shelter, and a great watchdog.
Appearance
Tornjak is a large and powerful dog, well proportioned and agile. The shape of the body is almost square. The bone is not light, but nevertheless not heavy nor coarse. His coat is long and thick. The body of this dog is strong and well built, with harmonious and dignified movements. The hair is long and thick and adequately protects the body against bad weather conditions. The tail is shaggy, kept high like a flag. Tornjak has a clear, self-confident, serious and calm look to it. In general, Tornjak is a long coated dog with short hair over the face and legs. The topcoat is long, thick, coarse and straight. It is specially long on the upper part of the croup, over the shoulders and the back it can be slightly wavy. On the muzzle and the forehead, up to the imaginary line connecting the ears, over the ears and on the front parts of legs and feet it is short. It is especially abundant around the neck (mane), dense and long over the upper thighs (breeches). It forms feathers along the forearms. With well coated dogs it is also especially abundant on the rear of hind pasterns. The tail is richly coated with very long hair. Winter undercoat is long, very thick and of nice woolly texture. Hair is thick and dense and should not part along the back.As a rule Tornjak is parti-colored with markings of various solid colors. The colour of Tornjaks is in fact unrestricted. It ranges from nearly completely white to almost black, with yellow, red, brown and not-quite-desired gray in between. There are two main types: piebald and Irish spotting. The goal is multicolourdness and distinction regarding towards other breeds. Usually the dominant ground color is white. There may be dogs with a black mantle and with white markings most often found around the neck, over the head and along the legs. There may also be almost white dogs with only small markings.

Head

Lupine, wedge-shaped and elongated. Due to the heavy coat it could look too small sometimes. Powerful and long jaws, teeth complete, scissor bite. The back of the muzzle is straight. The zygomatic arches above the eyes may be slightly noticeable. Back of skull elongated but not narrow, straight from zygomatic arches to occiput. Top of the muzzle straight, proportional, never pointed or excessively fleshy, lips fitted tightly to the jaws. Almond shaped eyes, eyelids close to the skull. Large ears, that are single turn down, set high up, nearer to the vertex than in other sheepdogs breeds.

Neck

Long, carried low, set at 45 degree when alert. Neck muscles firm and taut. Skin quite thick especially at the nape of the neck and adheres to the inner tissue not only on the upper but also on the lower side of the neck. Covered with a rich crop of long hair (ruff).

Back
Relatively short, firm, moderately wide and level.
Tail

Long, can be saber-shaped, annular or hooked (slight upward turn at the tip), set medium high. Highly mobile, at rest hanging downwards. When in motion - trotting - or when alert or excited, always carried above the back.

Chest

Very broad, conically deep, wide and rounded, but ribs not heavy. The breast is well-proportioned and forms a firmly connected unit between shoulder joint and chest. As a rule, the sternum (breast bone) tip is a little below the shoulder joint.

Belly

Firm muscles, continuous lower line, moderately tucked-up from the back end of sternum to the inside of loins.

Coat

As a rule, long coated with short hair on face and front part of legs. Top coat is long, hard textured (similar to goats) and straight. On the front part of shoulders and backside of rump it can be slightly wavy. Particularly well developed on the neck also below the tail very rich and long, forming trousers. Feathering on the forearm and very rich feathering on the tail. Upper hair is especially long on the upper rump just before tail set. Firmly closed and not able to be opened in parting.
Temperament

Tornjak has a calm temperament. A typical adult Tornjak is very calm, peaceful, on first sight an indifferent animal, but when the situation demands it, it is a vigilant, a very alert watchdog. The character of Tornjak is equal to the temperament, they are not nervous and not aggressive in general, they are very tough, not demanding, and sturdy dogs. With their human family they are very emotional. When the Tornjak live in a pack they are highly social animals, and there is not any fighting between pack members. Toward strangers or other animals, as a rule, Tornjak is not emphasized aggressive. But when the situation calls upon it, Tornjak act very determined and it can without consideration attack much stronger rivals. Shepherds use to say that a Tornjak who guards the flock is a fair match to two wolves, and a couple will encounter and chase away a bear without any undue respect. In this situations Tornjaks are vary, but brusque, persistent and unpleasant ("angel becomes a demon").
Activities

Exercise level is not too high, especially in first 9 - 12 months (during the last intensive growth). After that period, we can exercise our Tornjak as much as we can, the more the better. They prefer long walks without a leash, and a lot of playing with other dogs. The Tornjak will also be almost equally satisfied with a walk for only 20 minutes if we are in a hurry. Learns quickly and does not forget things easily, gladly performs tasks assigned to him. He is easy to train. Strong and hardy, during the snowing winter nights, these dogs lie on the ground and often get covered by snow. Tornjak is used for herding [citation needed] and protection of livestock; farmyard guard dog.
Care

Tornjak is not recommended for apartment life. They need space and will do best with at least a large yard. Because its thick coat protects it so well, it can happily cope with living out-doors provided it has proper shelter. This breed of dog is best suited to a family with lots of space surrounding the home where it can attend to its own exercise needs.Tornjak is a very healthy breed, but because of the fact that they were very poorly fed in their past, they now do not need so much proteins in the food. For feeding Tornjaks a low protein diet is suitable. Feeding with a lot of protein in theirs food, can develop coat problems. Climbing up and downstairs the first six months can ruin theirs hock joints, or develop hyp-dysplasia.Tornjak needs early socialization. The first experiences, until 9 months of age, has the most important influence to their entire life. In the first period of their life they have to meet all fearful situations, the earlier the better -for preventing later fear reactions on the stimulus: traffic noise, big trucks and buses will provoke fear reactions in adult age, if the puppy Tornjak already has not faced these situations several times. In this early age all Tornjak puppies have to meet as many strange people as possible, and also other animals, dogs, and pets especially, for developing a good and stable behaviour as an adult. No special training or equipment is needed.

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Pharaoh Hound

2008-01-25T23:09:00.000-08:00

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The Pharaoh Hound is a breed of dog, a hound which has been classed variously as a member of the sighthound and pariah groups. It is the national dog of Malta, where it is called the Kelb tal-Fenek (plural: Klieb tal-Fenek), meaning "rabbit hound". It is rare outside of Malta, and it is number 141 out of 154 breeds by dogs registered in 2005 by the AKC.
Appearance
At first glance, the Pharaoh Hound should appear both graceful/elegant AND powerful/athletic. Its build should be one of strength without bulkiness or excessive musculature. Its head is elegant without being fine or extreme. The skull should resemble a blunt wedge, and is long and chiseled with only a slight stop and a muzzle of good length. Its eyes are oval with a keen, noble, alert, and intelligent expression. It has a long, lean, and muscular neck that is slightly arched. Its body is slightly longer than its height at the withers. It has a deep chest that extends down to the elbows and a moderate tuck up. Its shoulders are long and well laid back. Its front legs are long and straight. The back legs are moderately angulated, parallel to each other, and must be in balance with the forelegs. It has a long, fine, straight tail that should reach down to a bit below the point of the hocks. The tail is carried down when relaxed but must not tuck between the legs. When the dog is in motion or is excited, the tail is carried up; either level with, or loosely curled above, the back. Its dewclaws may be removed.
Size
It stands between 21 to 25 inches at the withers and weighs between 40 to 60 lbs. Males are typically larger than females.
Coat and colour
The coat is fine and short with no feathering. The texture varies from silky to somewhat hard and it must never be so profuse as to stand away from the dog's skin. It is always red in colour, though the shades of red varies, and accepted shades range from a tan to a deep chestnut and all shades in between. White markings on the chest, toes, tail-tip, center of forehead, and the bridge of the muzzle are accepted, but not required. A white tail-tip is desired by some kennel clubs. In contrast, any white markings on the back of the neck, the sides, or the back of the dog are unacceptable by most standards. Its irises are always amber, and should compliment the coat colour. Though the adult eye color is amber and blending with the coat, Pharaohs are born with blue eyes, which change to a light gold or yellow color during early puppyhood and then begin to darken. Pharaohs' eyes continue to darken well into adulthood. The nose, whiskers, nails, paw-pads, and eye-rims should also be the same colour as the coat. Pharaohs also have a unique trait of "blushing" when excited or happy, with their ears and nose becoming bright pink.
Temperament
The Pharaoh Hound is an intelligent, trainable, playful and active breed. It is sociable with other dogs and with people, however it can be aloof/reserved with strangers. It is typically very open and affectionate with its family and those it knows, however. It is an independent-minded, occasionally stubborn breed, yet can be very trainable when appropriate positive training methods are used. It has a strong hunting instinct, and caution should be observed when it is around small pets such as cats, birds, and rodents. It is not a demonstrative breed but rather is quietly affectionate. It is a vocal breed without being yappy or barking just for the sake of barking. It makes a good watch dog, however, it is not well suited as guard dog as it is rarely aggressive with people. This is not a breed suited for kennel situations due to its intelligence and activity level. The breed tends to bond deeply with its people and thrives best when it feels included as a member of the family.
Care
The Pharaoh Hound is independent-minded, highly intelligent, and occasionally stubborn, yet very trainable when positive methods are used. It is a very sensitive breed and responds poorly to compulsionary training methods and to being physically punished. Pharaohs can succeed in competition obedience, but they do not take to it naturally as many breeds that were bred to work along side Man. Pharaohs were bred to hunt and think for themselves, and they have retained this trait for thousands of years. They tire/bore easily with repetitive commands, therefore it is the trainer's job to ensure that their training remains interesting and positive in nature.
They have sensitive skin, and shampoo (canine or human) may cause allergic reactions; therefore, it is best to wash them with either a human baby shampoo or gentle dog shampoo. Grooming Pharaohs is as easy as a quick rub with a hound glove or a damp cloth. They are clean dogs, shed very little, and have no noticeable odor, even when wet.
They are a very active breed and need more than just a daily walk; a run every day is required. Though they are active, they should not be hyperactive. Because of their strong prey drive and independent nature, this breed should never be allowed off leash unless in a securely fenced area away from road traffic or other dangers. Their prey drive is so strong that if they see something they think is prey, they will chase after it, and no amount of training can stop them.
They are very adept jumpers, and fences meant to contain them must be more than five feet (1.52 metres) high, six feet (1.82 metres) or higher being preferable. Because they are such good jumpers, they are well suited to the sport of dog agility. They are often classified as sighthounds, and thus compete in lure coursing. Because they maintain very little body fat and have short coats, they are sensitive to cold and cannot be left outside for long in cold climates. Dog coats/jackets are a must for this breed in cold climates. However, many Pharaoh Hounds enjoy snow and will keep themselves warm through running, playing and digging.
History
The first two specimens of the breed were brought to Britain in the 1920s, but at that time, no litter was bred. Again, some dogs were imported to the UK in the early 1960s, and the first litter was born in 1963. The breed standard was recognised by the The Kennel Club in 1974. The breed was called the Pharaoh Hound although this name was already used by the FCI as an alternative name for the Ibizan Hound at that time. When the FCI abolished this name in 1977 and decided to call the Ibizan Hound exclusively by its original Spanish name Podenco Ibicenco, the term Pharaoh Hound was transferred to the Kelb tal-Fenek, whose breed standard had been recognised by the FCI at the same time.
For many years, the Pharaoh Hound was considered one of the oldest dog breeds, because it is thought by some to resemble paintings of dogs featured on the walls of ancient Egyptian pyramids and tombs. Recent DNA analysis reveals, however, that this breed is actually a more recent construction, developed out of different lines of European hunting dogs. This DNA data now puts to rest the "Egyptian Myth" and proves the breed did not originate from Egypt. It is often called a sighthound, particularly in North America, but also hunts by scent and hearing.
A number of other breeds that are similar to the Pharaoh Hound exist in different regions of the Mediterranean. One is the Cirneco dell'etna from neighbouring Silicy, which is very similar in structure and appearance, but somewhat smaller (43-51cm/17-20in). Other similar breeds include the Ibazan Hound,Podenco Canario,Podengo Portugues and other local breeds from the Mediterranean. It is not clear whether those breeds have descended from the same anscestral lines, or whether their similarities have developed due to similar environmental conditions.
Health
Pharaohs, being somewhat uncommon, have not been subjected to as much irresponsible breeding as some more popular breeds, because they are not profitable for commercial breeding, thus those who breed them do it for the love of the breed and to have a good show, performance, and/or hunting dog. They try hard to prevent hereditary diseases from entering the gene pool. Thus, Pharaohs are basically free from genetic diseases at this point in time. However, reputable breeders continue to test their breeding stock for genetic conditions such as hip dysplasia, luxating patellas, and myriad eye conditions just to ensure that these disorders do not become a problem in the future. Reputable breeders should be able to show you documentation of health screening performed on their breeding dogs. Note that Pharaohs, like most sighthounds, are sensitive to barbiturate anaesthetics. Their ears are thin and prone to forstbite when in cold climates.

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Siamese (cat)

2008-01-18T21:19:00.000-08:00

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

The Siamese is one of the first distinctly recognised breeds of Oriental cat. The exact origins of the breed are unknown, but it is believed to be from Southeast Asia, and is said to be descended from the sacred temple cats of Siam (now Thailand). In Thailand, where they are one of several native breeds, they are called Wichien-maat (วิเชียรมาศ, a name meaning "Moon diamond"). In the twentieth century the cats became one of the most popular breeds in Europe and North America.

The Breed

Description

All Siamese have a creamy base coat with coloured points on their snouts, ears, paws and lower legs, tails and (in males) scrota. The pointed pattern is a form of partial albinism, resulting from a mutation in tyrosinase, an enzyme involved in melanin production. The mutated enzyme is heat-sensitive; it fails to work at normal body temperatures, but becomes active in cooler areas of the skin.This results in dark colouration in the coolest parts of the cat's body, including the extremities and the face, which is cooled by the passage of air through the sinuses. All Siamese kittens, although pure cream or white at birth, develop visible points in the first few months of life in colder parts of their body. By the time a kitten is four weeks old the points should be clearly distinguishable enough to recognise which colour they are. Siamese cats tend to darken with age, and generally adult Siamese living in warm climates have lighter coats than those in cool climates.Originally the vast majority of Siamese had seal (extremely dark brown, almost black) points, but occasionally Siamese were born with blue (a cool grey) points, genetically a dilution of seal point; chocolate (lighter brown) points, a genetic variation of seal point; or lilac (pale warm gray) points, genetically a diluted chocolate. These colours were at first considered "inferior" seal points, and were not qualified for showing or breeding. All of these shades were eventually accepted by the breed associations, and became more common through breeding programmes specifically aimed at producing these colours. Later, outcrosses with other breeds developed Siamese-mix cats with points in other cat colours and patterns including red point, lynx (tabby) point, and tortoise-shell ("tortie") point. In the United Kingdom, all pointed Siamese-style cats are considered to be part of the Siamese breed. In the United States, the major cat registry, the Cat Fanciers' Association, considers only the four original colourations as Siamese: seal point, blue point, chocolate point, and lilac point. Oriental cats with colourpoints in colours or patterns aside from these four are considered Colourpoint Shorthairs in the American cat fancy.Siamese have almond-shaped, bright blue eyes and short, flat-lying coats. Many Siamese cats from Thailand had a kink in their tails but over the years this trait has been considered to be a flaw and breeders have largely eradicated it, although it persists among street cats in Thailand. Many early Siamese were cross-eyed to compensate for the abnormal uncrossed wiring of the optic chiasm, which is produced by the same albino allele that produces coloured points. Like the kinked tails, the crossed eyes have been seen as a fault and through selective breeding, the trait is far less common today.

Temperament

Siamese are affectionate and intelligent cats, renowned for their social nature. They enjoy being with people and are sometimes described as "extroverts". They are extremely vocal, with a loud, low-pitched voice – known as "Meezer", from which they get one of their nicknames – that has been compared to the cries of a human baby, and persistent in demanding attention. They also have a great need for human companionship. Often they bond strongly to a single person. These cats are typically active and playful, even as adults.[3][4]The social orientation of Siamese cats may be related to their lessened ability to live independent of humans. Siamese coat colouration is appealing to humans, but is ineffective for camouflage purposes. They are less active at night than most cats, possibly because their blue eyes lack a tapetum lucidum, a structure which amplifies dim light in the eyes of other cats. Like blue-eyed white cats, they may also have reduced hearing ability. Therefore, being dependent on humans may have been a survival trait for ancestors of the Siamese.

History

Siamese cats (in Thai, วิเชียรมาศ or wichien-maat) have existed for centuries in Thailand (formerly Siam). The pointed cat known in the West as "Siamese" is one of several breeds of cats from Siam described and illustrated in manuscripts called "Tamra Maew" (Cat Poems), estimated to have been written in the 1700s.The breed was first seen outside their Asian home in 1884, when the British Counsul-General in Bangkok, Edward Blencowe Gould (1847-1916), brought a breeding pair of the cats, Pho and Mia, back to Britain as a gift for his sister, Lilian Jane Veley (who went on to be co-founder of the Siamese Cat Club in 1901). Just one year later, three kittens were produced by Pho and Mia. These kittens – Duen Ngai, Kalohom, and Khromata – and their parents were shown at the Crystal Palace Show in 1885, where they made a huge impression because of their unique appearance and distinct behavior. Unfortunately, all three of the kittens died soon after the show. The reason for their deaths is not documented.The following year another pair (with kittens) were imported by a Mrs. Vyvyan and her sister. Compared to the British Shorthair and Persian cats that were familiar to most Britons, these Siamese imports were longer and less "cobby" in body, had heads that were less round with wedge-shaped muzzles and had larger ears. These differences and the pointed coat pattern which had not been seen before by Westerners, produced a strong impression--one early viewer described them as "an unnatural nightmare of a cat". But these striking cats also won some devoted fans and over the next several years fanciers imported a small number of cats, which together these formed the base breeding pool for the entire breed in Britain. It is believed that most Siamese in Britain today are descended from about eleven of these original imports. Several sources give Gould's brother Owen Nutcombe Gould (1857-1929) as the British Consul-General in Bangkok, but Owen was only 27 in 1884 and not known to be in Bangkok. In their early days in Britain they were called the "Royal Cat of Siam", reflecting reports that they had previously been kept only by Siamese royalty.Later research has not shown evidence of any organised royal breeding programme in Siam.The original Siamese imports were, like their descendants in Thailand today, medium-sized, rather long-bodied, muscular, graceful cats with moderately wedge-shaped heads and ears that were comparatively large but in proportion to the size of the head. The cats ranged from rather substantial to rather slender but were not extreme in either way.In the 1950s - 1960s, as the Siamese was increasing in popularity, many breeders and cat show judges began to favor the more slender look and as a result of generations of selective breeding, created increasingly long, fine-boned, narrow-headed cats; eventually the modern show Siamese was bred to be extremely elongated, with thin, tubular bodies, long, slender legs, a whip-thin tail and long, narrow, wedge-shaped heads topped by extremely large, wide-set ears. The major cat organisations altered language and/or interpretation of their official breed standards to favor this newer streamlined type of Siamese, and the minority of breeders who stayed with the original style found that their cats were no longer competitive in the show ring.By the mid-1980s, cats of the original style had disappeared from cat shows, but a few breeders, particularly in the UK, continued to breed and register them, resulting in today's two types of Siamese – the modern "show-style" Siamese, and the "traditional" Siamese, both descended from the same distant ancestors, but with few or no recent ancestors in common. In the late 1980s, breeders and fans of the older style of Siamese organised in order to preserve old, genetically healthy lines from extinction, educate the public about the breed's history and provide information on where people could buy kittens of the more moderate type. Several different breeders' organisations have developed, with differing breed standards and requirements (such as whether or not cats must have documented proof of ancestry from an internationally recognised registry). Partially due to such disagreements, there are several different names used for the cats, including "Traditional Siamese", "Old Style Siamese", "Classic siamese" and "Appleheads" (originally a derogatory nickname coined by modern-type Siamese breeders as an exaggerated description of less extremely wedge-shaped heads). The popularity of the older body style has also led to pointed mixed-breed cats that may have few or no Siamese ancestors being sold as "Traditional Siamese" to uninformed buyers, further increasing confusion over what a "real" Siamese looks like.The International Cat Association (TICA),[9] in addition to the regular Siamese (Siamkatze) breed category in which modern show-style Siamese are shown, now accept a breed in the Preliminary New Breed Category called Thai, similar to the Thaikatze which are seen in Europe. The TICA Thai is recognised, which includes Siamese cats of the less extreme type or a Wichien-Maat imported from Thailand. A copy of the Thai Breed Standard can be found at the The Prestwick-Beresford Old-Style Siamese Breed Preservation Society.Thai, are the original type of cats from Thailand, brought to America on January 3, 1879 as a gift from the American consul in Bangkok to the President's wife, Mrs. Lucy Webb Hayes, and are still bred and seen in Thailand today.

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Dangerous foods

2008-01-16T06:12:00.000-08:00

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Some foods commonly enjoyed by humans are dangerous to dogs:
* Dogs love the flavor of chocolate, but chocolate in sufficient doses is lethally toxic to dogs (and horses and possibly cats). Chocolate contains theobromine, a chemical stimulant that, together with caffeine and theophylline, belongs to the group of methylxanthine alkaloids. Dogs are unable to metabolize theobromine effectively. If they eat chocolate, the theobromine can remain in their bloodstreams for up to 20 hours, and these animals may experience fast heart rate, hallucinations, severe diarrhea, epileptic seizures, heart attacks, internal bleeding, and eventually death. A chocolate bar can be sufficient to make a small dog extremely ill or even kill it. Approximately thirty grams of baking chocolate per kilogram (1/2 ounce per pound) of body weight is enough to be poisonous. In case of accidental intake of chocolate by especially a smaller dog, contact a veterinarian or animal poison control immediately; it is commonly recommended to induce vomiting within two hours of ingestion. Large breeds are less susceptible to chocolate poisoning, but still are far less tolerant of the substance than humans are.
Note:Carob treats are often available as dog treats; these are unrelated to chocolate and are safe.
* It has recently been confirmed that grapes and raisins can cause acute kidney failure in dogs (see also grape and raisin toxicity in dogs). The exact mechanism is not known, nor is there any means to determine the susceptibility of an individual dog. While as little as one raisin can be toxic to a susceptible ten pound dog, many other dogs have eaten as much as a pound of grapes or raisins at a time without ill effects. The dog usually vomits a few hours after consumption and begins showing signs of renal failure three to five days later.
* Onions, and to a significantly lesser extent garlic, contain thiosulfate which causes hemolytic anemia in dogs (and cats). Thiosulfate levels are not affected by cooking or processing. Small puppies have died of hemolytic anemia after being fed baby food containing onion powder. Occasional exposure to small amounts is usually not a problem, but continuous exposure to even small amounts can be a serious threat. Garlic is also known to cause diarrhea and vomiting.
* Macadamia nuts can cause stiffness, tremors, hyperthermia, and abdominal pain. The exact mechanism is not known. Most dogs recover with supportive care when the source of exposure is removed.
* Alcoholic beverages pose much the same temptation and hazard to dogs as to humans. A drunk dog displays behavior analogous to that of an intoxicated person.
* Hops, a plant used in making beer, can cause malignant hyperthermia in dogs, usually with fatal results. Certain breeds, such as Greyhounds, seem particularly sensitive to hop toxicity, but hops should be kept away from all dogs. Even small amounts of hops can trigger a potentially deadly reaction, even if the hops are "spent" after use in brewing.
* Xylitol is a sugar substitute used in chewing gum, chewable vitamins, candy, toothpaste, and other products. Although empirical studies indicate xylitol may be safe for dogs, there have been cases of foods, candies and gums containing xylitol causing toxic or even fatal liver damage in dogs and should be avoided.
* Some dogs have food allergies just as humans do; this is particular to the individual dog and not characteristic of the species as a whole. An example is a dog becoming physically ill from salmon; many humans likewise have seafood allergies.
* If dogs eat the pits of fruits such as peaches and apricots, they can get cyanide poisoning due to cyanogenic glycosides.

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Shiba Inu

2008-01-13T00:47:00.000-08:00

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The Shiba Inu (shiba inu or shiba ken) is the smallest of the six original and distinct breeds of dog from Japan.
A small, agile dog that copes very well with mountainous terrain. The Shiba Inu was originally bred for hunting.It is similar in appearance to the Akita, though much smaller in stature.
Inu is the Japanese word for dog, but the "Shiba" prefix's origin are less clear. The word shiba usually refers to a type of red shrub. This leads some to believe that the Shiba was named with this in mind, either because the dogs were used to hunt in wild shrubs, or because the most common color of the Shiba Inu is a red color similar to that of the shrubs. However, in old Japanese, the word shiba also had the meaning of "small", thus this might be a reference to the dog's small size. Therefore, the Shiba Inu is sometimes translated as "Little Brushwood Dog".
Appearance
Shibas range in height from 14.5 to 16.5 inches (37 to 42 cm) at the withers for males, and 13.5 to 15.5 inches (34 to 39 cm) for females, with males weighing approximately 23 lb (10 kg), and females approximately 17 lb (8 kg).Height or weight outside of this range is a disqualifier in the show ring.
In Japan, some animals bred for miniature size are referred to as Mame-Shiba .The prefix "mame," meaning "bean" in Japanese, is similar to "teacup" prefix used to refer to other miniature breeds.
Coat and color
Shiba Inu have double coats, with a straight outer coat and a soft, dense undercoat that is blown generally two times a year, producing a relatively large amount of fur given the size of the dog. Shedding normally occurs at the beginning or end of each season. However, between seasonal sheddings Shibas generally shed in smaller quantities and require regular brushing.
Shiba may be red, black and tan, or sesame (red with black-tipped hairs), with a cream, buff, or grey undercoat. They may also be creamy white or pinto, though this color is not allowed in the show ring as the markings known as "urajiro"are unable to be seen. The urajiro markings are defined as a pattern of white in contrast to the dog's primary coat color that exists on the underside of the Shiba.
Temperament
Shibas are generally independent and intelligent dogs. Some owners struggle with obedience training, but like many dogs, socialization at a young age can greatly affect temperament. Traits such as independence and intelligence are often associated with ancient dog breeds, such as the Shiba Inu. Some shibas must always be on a leash, but with the proper upbringing, a shiba's loyalty will keep the dog with its owner for life.
From the Japanese breed standard:
The dog has a spirited boldness and are fiercely proud with a good nature and a feeling of artlessness. The Shiba is able to move quickly with nimble, elastic steps.
The terms "spirited boldness" , "good nature"and "artlessness" have subtle interpretations that have been the subject of much commentary.
The Shiba is a fastidious breed and feels the need to maintain themselves in a clean state. They can often be seen licking their paws and legs much like a cat. They generally go out of their way to keep their coats clean, and while walking will avoid stepping in puddles, mud and dirt. Because of their fastidious nature, the Shiba puppy is easy to housebreak and in many cases will housebreak themselves. Having their owner simply place them outside after meal times and naps is generally enough to teach the Shiba the appropriate method of toileting.
A distinguishing characteristic of the breed is the so-called "shiba scream". When sufficiently provoked or unhappy, the dog will produce a loud, high pitched scream.
History
Recent DNA analysis confirms that this is one of the oldest and most "primitive" dog breeds,dating back to the third century B.C.
Originally, the Shiba Inu was bred to hunt and flush small game. However, it is now primarily kept as a pet both in Japan and Abroad.
In 1936, the Shiba Inu was declared a natural treasure of Japan through the Cultural Properties Act. Despite efforts to preserve the breed, the Shiba nearly became extinct during World War II due to a combination of bombing raids and a post-war distemper epidemic.All subsequent dogs were bred from the only three surviving bloodlines, known as the San'in, Mino, and Shinshu.
In 1954, an armed service family brought the first Shiba Inu to America.In 1979, the first recorded litter was born in the United States.The Shiba was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1992 and added to the AKC Non-sporting Group in 1993.
Health
Health conditions known to affect this breed are glaucoma,cataracts,hip dysplasia, and luxating patella.Shibas are also prone to food allergies.Epilepsy is also becoming common in several bloodlines in Australia and the USA. Overall, however, they are of great genetic soundness and few shibas are diagnosed with genetic defects in comparison to other dog breeds. Their average life expectancy is 12 to 15 years.

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Thai Bangkaew Dog

2008-01-13T00:37:00.000-08:00

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The Thai Bangkaew Dog is an Asian dog breed. It is a medium-sized Spitz-type dog.
Appearance
The Thai Bangkaew Dog is compactly built and square in profile. It is well proportioned, with a smooth gait. The double coat consists of a short undercoat, with longer guard hairs growing through it forming the outer coat. The coat is thicker and longer around the neck, chest, and back forming a lion-like ruff, which is more noticeable on dogs than on bitches. The plumed tail is carried with moderate upward curve over the back. The TBD comes in white with shades of red, gray, brown, and black in a wide variety of patterns. The breed has the cutest puppies!
Temperament
Thai Bangkaew Dogs are alert and watchful, protective of home and family. Bangkaew are devoted to their masters but can be aloof with strangers. Agile and active, they are strong swimmers and voracious diggers. They are highly intelligent but can be stubborn and benefit from training. Positive reinforcement methods work best with this breed. It has been said that these dogs are mixed from a wolf, a fox and a normal house dog or a lab.
History
Bangkaew is a village located in the Bang Rakam District,Phitsanulok Province in the central region of Thailand. In this district, near the Yom River, there is a monastery called Wat Bangkaew where it is believed that Thai Bangkaew Dogs originated.
Legend has it that the third abbot of Wat Bangkaew Temple, the respected Luang Puh Maak Metharee, was known for mercy and care given to all living things. An old Bangkaew villager named Tah Nim gave the abbot a native bitch. Because she was pregnant, her mating was though to be a jackal; the resulting litter produced longhaired puppies of black and dark brown coloration. Luang Puh Maak Metharee raised the resulting puppies, four females.
Since the hybrid between dog and jackal has been reported to be sterile, it is more likely that the abbot's dogs mated with a long coat herding dog belonging to the Mong hilltribe from the neighbouring village of Huay Chan. The Mong's dog is the only local breed that carries a hair fur. Local residents of the houseboats along the Yom River took these dogs as their pets.
Seasonal rain produced flooding, a natural barrier that excluded other dogs from contributing to the gene pool. The inbreedings that took place led to the creation of the purebred Thai Bangkaew Dogs. From then on the breed has been selectively bred and has become one of the most favored varieties of Thai dogs.

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Dog of The Day

2007-11-23T21:41:00.000-08:00

Thai Ridgeback

The Thai Ridgeback is an ancient breed of dog. The breed was formerly unknown outside of Thailand, but is gaining notice in the western world. The breed is still very rare outside of Thailand. The Thai Ridgeback is one of only three breeds that has a ridge of hair that runs along its back in the opposite direction to the rest of the coat. They are also known as a TRD or Mah Thai Lang Ahn.

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How to Choose an All Natural Homemade Dog Food

2007-11-16T20:33:00.000-08:00

By Gerry Restrivera
With so many issues about commercial dog food, more and more pet owners are now switching to all natural homemade dog food. Homemade dog food is not only safe but also healthy. Choosing and preparing your own dog food are relatively easy if you know how. Here are some useful tips:
Before switching to all natural homemade dog food, it is best to consult your vet and get some advice. You also have to understand the healthy diet requirements of dogs with regards to their breeds, age and other factors. Generally, dogs need 40% protein, 30% starch and 30% fiber.
Slowly switch to all natural homemade dog food. A sudden change in your dog's diet may result to an upset stomach and other digestive problems.
Choose healthy fresh lean meat for your dog. Meat is the basic component of protein requirements of your dog. An all natural homemade dog food may contain lean meat like turkey, chicken, beef and fish. Kidney, liver and other organ meat are also good for your dog. Cook the meat before feeding it to your dog. Although dogs are carnivores, it is best to cook meat to kill the bacteria that may cause health problems to your dog.
Another source of all natural homemade dog food is the addition of vegetables to your dogs' diet. Vegetables act as antioxidants and a good source of nutrients and vitamins. You can add cooked corn, squash, peas and potatoes. Raw carrots and lettuce are also good for your dog.
You also have to make sure that your dog is well hydrated and there is plenty of water available for your dog. Avoid feeding your dog with table scraps; it is not a good habit to teach your dog to eat leftovers.
Switching to all natural homemade dog food is not only cheap but it also ensures your dog's health and safety. Get some healthy, well-balanced dog food recipes and start feeding your dog homemade food.
Do you want to discover a step-by-step survival guide that makes your dog live a longer, healthier life, so you enjoy up to 8.3 more years of happiness & companionship than is statistically predicted? Visit Dog Food Secrets at Dogs' Corner
To know more about pets visit All About Pets
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6 Important Safety Lessons For Children On How to Avoid Dog Bites

2007-11-09T19:28:00.000-08:00

By Mike Allred
One of the most frequent questions from dog owners is "How do I stop my dog from biting?" Or even more common, how to stop a puppy from biting. First we need to know why do dogs bite people? Most dog bites and aggressive behavior happen in six common situations. It's very important that we teach our children about these common situations and how to avoid them.

:A dog can bite when:

When it's disturbed.

Dogs can often bite when disturbed or startled. This usually occurs when a family member disturbs a resting or sleeping dog, picks it up, tries to hold it, or takes something from the dog. More often this happens when children pull a dogs tail, or pull on its ears. Remember the old saying "Let sleeping dogs lie?" There's a lot of good advice in that old idiom. With this in mind, caution children not to disturb resting or sleeping dogs.
When it's afraid.

Frightened or scared dogs are acting instinctively when they bite. They're doing what comes naturally, protecting themselves. Unfortunately, a scared dog will snap at you and bite instinctively. This usually happens when someone approaches the dog too quickly or startles a dog. Teach children not to sneak up on dogs, especially strange dogs unfamiliar to your family. Even a gentle small dog will bite defensively if startled or frightened.
When it's protecting its territory.

Most times we're glad when our pooch protects our property. After all, he's guarding the home front and the family. However, for visitors to your home, the meter reader, or the postman, it can be a different story. These people can be bitten by your friendly pooch. Educate children not to go on private property without adult supervision. A forty pound child is no match for an adult dog protecting its territory.
When it's in attack mode.

We've all seen examples of this behavior. A dog's natural instinct is to chase small running animals, running children and adults, and even cars. Have you ever noticed what a dog does if it catches a car? It tries to bite the tires. My first lesson from my GrandDad as a child was to never run from a large dog. Children must remember, you can't outrun a dog pumped up with adrenalin and in attack mode. Also, if you do run, the dog's instincts kick in and they're after you in a flash. And most important, the dog could seriously injure you, or even worse, (through biting) when they catch you.
When it's suffering or in pain.

When a dog is suffering or in pain, leave it alone if at all possible. Our natural instincts are to pet or comfort the dog. Even our best intentions and motives can backfire on us, especially a strange dog unknown to us. As much as we want to comfort a suffering or injured dog, we must be careful. Children should be warned not to pet dogs that are in pain, or suffering. Even the beloved family dog can snap and bite when in pain.
When it's punished or abused.

Unfortunately, dogs can and will bite when someone abuses or mistreats them. Dogs will bite their owners, small children, or other family members, when mistreated. Think about it. If you were a dog and someone is physically mistreating you, wouldn't you bite? It's natural instinct for a dog to protect himself. Help children to understand that mistreatment of dogs, or any animal for that matter is wrong. Abused animals do bite, and have been known to kill.
Our pets, especially our dogs, are our loyal, faithful, and loving friends. They're our family. They'll give you unconditional love whether you're homeless, or live in a mansion. And when we lose a beloved pet, we mourn, we cry, and we remember. But, we must also remember our pets have natural instincts. And one of those instincts is to bite. Discuss these six lessons with your children. Someday your kids may be face-to-face with a dog in one of the above situations. Then, hopefully, they'll remember these lessons, and thank you.
Mike Allred, the author, learned his lessons the hard way. He suffered many dog bites as a child and teen--mostly from trying to comfort and aid injured animals and dogs. Mike lives in south Florida, is an avid outdoorsman, and writes on many topics. For more information on dog behavior problems, and how to prevent dog biting behavior, visit www.ProDogTrainingMethods.com
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10 Steps before travelling with your dog

2007-11-04T00:10:00.000-07:00

by GG

Ten Tips when planning a vacation with your Dog is a checklist which will help you have a peaceful and safe travel and holiday with your canine friend.Need to know what to do when you want to take your dog on vacation? All aspects of your travel are covered in 10 short steps. These simple tips can help you have a dog-trouble free vacation. It will go a long way to increase the fun you have with your dog!!
1. Plan well ahead - Make a checklist of what you need for your dog when travelling to your particular location. Check out the weather conditions and if the location is suitable for your pet.
2. Check for pets allowed at place of stay - Make sure that the residence where you will stay allows pets. You can book for hotels which allows pets and also check if the hotel can care for pets if you want an evening out alone.
3. Secure ID for Dog - Make sure your dog has an ID secured to him always when you travel especially if you do not have a microchip. A pencilled mark of your hotel name would not hurt. Also carry a photo of your pet in case he gets lost.
4. Carry First Aid - Take precautionary medicine for your dog especially for car sickness, vomiting, stress, etc. You should also carry ointments and bandages for scrapes and wounds. Consulting the vet about needed medicines depending on the medical history will help.
5. Clean up material - Always carry a few rags or old tees to clean up behind your dog. Even though your dog is trained, new locations and weather can cause accidents.
6. Travel with food and water - Always carry some meals and enough water for your dog. Remember that your dog may adapt to the new food gradually. Take tissues to cleanup the mess in car or outside.
7. Crate travel, safe travel - Crate training your dog if you want to travel with him is a great idea. Firstly, it gives him a secure feeling of home away from home and secondly, it helps to keep him in a place and away from danger which will allow you to concentrate on the traffic and driving. It is also mandatory for air travel. Travel in low traffic times when flying.
8. Leash up - Always hold you dog on leash, especially when walking down traffic and crowded roads. It helps to control him and also keep him from wandering and getting lost. He needs to be protected from snowbanks especially during winters!
9. Treats and toys - Carry some of his favorite treats and toys. This can help him feel reassured when cranky and you can also associate travel with fun.
10.Keep Records - Vaccinate him on time, give him his shots required by the country and airline and take a copy of his medical history.You never know when you will need them. Follow the above and have a fantastic vacation with your pet!
Choose from best in market dog training material that can help you train your dog well before travel including commands, crate travel, etc at Click here - Top Dog training books,ebooks,audio and video materials Click here - Best selling dog food and skin solutions, books by vets, etc

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Including Pets In Your Holiday Plans

2007-11-02T20:56:00.000-07:00

By Liz Shulman
November and December is a busy time of year. There are holidays to prepare for. There are gifts to shop for, guests to invite over, travel to be done, even one evening of dinner and socializing can be a lot more activity than a night the during rest of the year. Amid all the activity, it's important that we consider our pets. The holidays can be stressful for pets, with all the additional comings and goings and changes in the daily routine.
If you are having company over, consider designating a "safe spot" for your pet. A room where he is comfortable that is in the quietest part of the house. If your dog is truly not comfortable with a lot of strangers coming into the home, it might be wise to put him in a boarding kennel for the evening. This will eliminate the chance of him becoming overwhelmed and possibly deciding that you need to be protected from your guests. If he is sociable, he can come out and greet people, but make sure he always has a place to get away from everything. Even the friendliest of pets can become stressed by a holiday party.
If you are traveling and decide to take your pet with you, make sure that you arrange it in your travel plans. Airplanes have pet restrictions and often require advance notice of pets that will be on board. Be sure you know the pet policies of any hotels you plan on staying at. Some hotels have a size restriction, some limit pets to certain rooms, and those rooms could be booked. Don't wait too long before making reservations.
If you will be traveling with your pet, make sure to have a packing list for him that includes a crate and his food, water, dishes, leashes and collars, and maybe a couple of toys. Get the pet used to the carrier well in advance of travel, as well as used to car rides, especially if you will be driving to your destination. If your pet is prone to car sickness, it might be better to make arrangements to have someone care for him at home or to board him. Crates can be a lifesaver while traveling with pets. If you stop for gas or food or anything else, you don't want the pet jumping out of the car when a door opens. A pet who is stressed from the travel and in an unfamiliar area can quickly become scared and run off.
The holiday season is a very busy time of year for boarding kennels and pet sitters. Many are booked up months in advance, so it is important that you make arrangements with them as early as possible. Before leaving your pet, make a list of contact phone numbers where you can be reached while you are away, as well as veterinary contact information and instructions as to what should be done in a veterinary emergency. Make sure you have enough food and any medication he might need for him for the duration of his stay, plus a little extra.
With all of the holiday meals, you might want to let your pet enjoy some of the food. If you do, it's important that you just give him a small piece of these treats and make sure he still eats his regular diet. Too much holiday food can be very difficult on your pets digestive system, making him sick.
All of the decorations put up for the holidays make for a number of additional hazards for your pet. Garlands and ornaments are sometimes mistaken for toys. Every year around the holidays, we hear of pets who ate ornaments. Hang them high enough that the pet can't reach them, or limit them to a room that can be off limits to your pet.
Also plants, such as Christmas trees and poinsettias are toxic to pets. Take extra care to prevent curious animals from nibbling on them. Put them in inaccessible locations, use baby gates or scat mats to prevent access, and don't leave your pet unsupervised with the plants.
Often people think that pets would make for a great holiday gift. In actuality, they don't. One reason why they don't is that if they are going to be a surprise, then it is impossible for the recipient to be a part of the selection process, in which case the pet might be incompatible with his new owners. If you want to give a pet as a holiday gift, it is better to give an IOU, with perhaps some pet care items, and then let the individual choose the pet he truly wants.
The holiday season is not the best time of year to acquire pets. All of the traveling and activities make it very difficult for a new pet and his owner to set up a much needed routine and to bond correctly. The stress of going to a new home on the pet is compounded by the stress of the holidays. Again, it is best to wait until the holidays are over so that your new pet can settle into a quiet and loving home when you have time to attend to his needs during the adjustment period.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Liz_Shulman

Dog Food - Choice Is Important

2007-10-28T02:32:00.000-07:00

By Frans Nieuwenhuis
When feeding your dog, think about the following:

The size of your dog

The daily activity level of your dog

The life stage of your dog

Any health conditions that your dog may have.

If you don't take into account all of the above, you can be setting your dog up for a major crash that you could surely avoid by being smart and attentive to your dogs needs.
Too many dog owners care little about the foods they supply. They buy the cheaper brands, which have little nutrition. They feed their dog table scraps,

which are poisonous to their dogs and they just don't seem to care, either.
When your dog is fed all of these substandard foods, they are set up for all kinds of sickness. Your dog can become lethargic and lack energy. They can be listless and stop being frisky. You might think your dog is tired, so resting more when in fact your dog could be sick. It is so important that you feed your dog right if you want your dog to be healthy.
The size of your dog will determine greatly the amount of food that you should feed him. For proper feeding regulations the bag will list approximate amounts, however if you are an experienced dog owner you will find that these recommended portions are not always appropriate for your specific dog. The label on the bag is just a guide, a little more, or a little less will not hurt based on your opinion. Trust your judgment when reading the label and do what you decide is best.
Your dog will have individual needs. No two dogs are exactly the same.
Certain breeds of dog have specific nutritional requirements that must be met in their diet for them to live an optimum lifestyle. Knowing this, dog food manufacturers have started to produce breed specific dog foods. Royal Canin is the leader in this regard and have a great line of breed specific dog and cat food products on the market.
A high energy dog will need a high energy diet. Calorie rich food will benefit a dog that is highly active, for example a working dog, needs a high calorie diet, due to their active days assisting their masters to perform important daily tasks.
Choosing a dog food according to your dog's stage of life is very important to your dog's health. Your dog's nutritional needs will very depending on his stage of life and depending on your dog's size. Puppies need a high protein, high calorie diet. Adults need a balanced blend of all of the necessary elements, and senior dogs have specific food products with extra additives to take care of their special needs some of which being but not limited to joint maintenance, immune boosters, and ostio strengthening.
Regardless of what your dog's special needs are there is a dog food that fits. Your job is to find it!
For more dog related articles please visit http://www.petcarewatch.info
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Frans_Nieuwenhuis

Pet Vaccines - Do They Do More Harm Then Good?

2007-10-25T07:02:00.000-07:00

By Troy Foote
The "Secret Society" of Veterinarians has it wrong.
This myth is everywhere.
But it is the big drug companies that really want it to stay.
"Your Pet NEEDS this vaccine, and it won't do ANY harm..."
WRONG.
Most veterinarians vaccinate for too many things, too often.
And the vaccines have caused problems.
There is a growing body of evidence against vaccinating yearly.
Most veterinarians just choose to ignore the research because either they still feel

the benefits of vaccines outweigh the risk or that they don't want to lose the income

from giving booster shots to all those animals each year.
Vaccinations work by stimulating the immune system -

the positive effect is to protect against infectious disease.
The negative effect can be the host of immune related diseases.
These can include: immune mediated hemolytic anemia, immune mediated skin disease, vaccine induced skin cancer in cats, skin allergies, arthritis, leukemia,

inflammatory bowel disease and neurological conditions.
It is more and more common to see cancer in dogs and cats under 5 years of age.

Autoimmune diseases are on the rise as well.
Our companions are suffering from generations of over-vaccination, which combined with inadequate nutrition, poor breeding practices and environmental stresses are leaving each generation more susceptible to congenital disorders and chronic disease.
Most veterinary schools are advising alternate vaccine protocols and newer research is showing that vaccine immunity lasts much longer than previously thought.
In some cases a vaccine given at 1 year of age may provide lifelong immunity.
The analogy can be drawn to people and Tetanus vaccine. It only needs to be boosted every 10 years, and this may be similar in dogs and cats.
Vaccinations do help prevent serious illnesses, but they should be used with caution.
Before vaccinating your pet, consider the risk.
If your cat is indoor only and will never be exposed to unvaccinated animals,

the risk of infection is low.
The decision about vaccinations is very individual and should be guided by your own research on the subject before you go to the veterinarian.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Troy_Foote