My Great Dane Puppies

Pet Adoption

2009-03-16T22:22:00.000-07:00

When you're looking to add a pet to your life, consider adopting a homeless animal from your local shelter. Whether you want a puppy or a more mature dog, a purebred or a one-of-a-kind mixed breed, even a rabbit or hamster, your shelter has the best selection of animals anywhere—all screened for good health and behavior. Most shelters will even help you with spaying and neutering.
The animal shelter is your top source for a new pet, and our pet-care experts have compiled all the information you'll need to find your nearest shelter, select a pet who matches your lifestyle, and more.

Adopting from a Purebred Rescue Group If you have your heart set on a specific breed of dog or cat, consider adopting from a purebred rescue group.

Adopting from an Animal Shelter Animal shelters are your best source for pet adoptions. They not only ensure healthy animals, but they can help find the best match between human and pet.

All Grown Up: The Unique Joys of Mature PetsSure, puppies and kittens are cute, but they eventually all grow up. Adult animals can be every bit as adorable, with more of the qualities you want in a lifelong friend.

Bringing Your New Cat Home If you recently adopted a cat, or are planning to do so, follow these guidelines to increase the chances of making it a smooth transition for you and your pet.

Bringing Your New Dog Home If you recently adopted a dog, or are planning to add a canine companion to your home soon, follow these guidelines to increase the chance of making it a smooth transition for you and your pet.

Buying a Puppy Are you thinking about welcoming a dog into your life? Be sure to get the facts on where you are most likely to find a happy and healthy companion—and where you are not.

Choosing the Right Cat Cats make wonderful companions, and every feline is a true individual. If you decide to adopt a cat, it is important to take the time to choose a pet who is right for you and your family.

Choosing the Right Dog You will find many dogs at your local animal shelter that would make a great companion. The trick is to find a pet who is a good match for you, your family, and your lifestyle.

Easter Bunny? Make Mine Chocolate. Chocolate bunnies--not real ones--belong in Easter baskets. That's the message behind "Make Mine Chocolate!", a campaign that urges consumers to stop and think about the life-long care and attention that a rabbit requires before buying or adopting one of the hop-happy critters

How to Find a Good Dog Breeder Planning to get a puppy from a professional breeder? Our guidelines will help you make sure that the breeder you're working with is a responsible one who has the dogs' best interest at heart.

Pet Adoption: Got to Get You Into My LifeBy adopting a pet from a shelter or rescue group, people can truly develop a simple and unbreakable bond with a companion animal.

Selecting the Right Pet for You Pure or Mixed BreedDogs and cats fall into two categories: purebreds or mixed breeds. We can help you decide which type of pet is right for you.

Should you buy pet insurance?

2008-09-17T04:13:00.000-07:00

A few years ago, pet insurance would have ranked right up there with life insurance for children and dread-disease coverage on my list of policies you don't need.

Now I'm not so sure.

I still believe most people are better off forgoing pet insurance and instead putting the money they would have spent on premiums into a savings account. Pet coverage can cost $2,000 to $6,000 over the life of an average pet, and the chances are slim you'll ever need to shell out that much for treatment. But if you're the type of person who would do anything to save your pet, including spend thousands of dollars on medical care, pet insurance might be a preferable alternative to going into debt.

New treatments and monstrous bills What's changed in recent years is the state of veterinary science, as well as the economics of running a veterinary practice. Vets today can offer treatments that were unheard of just a few years ago -- and at prices that could make you howl.

Consider:

Treatments once reserved for humans, from radiation therapy to kidney transplants, are now available for pets. That means once-fatal conditions are now treatable at costs ranging from $1,000 to more than $5,000.
Vets have access to increasingly sophisticated and costly diagnostic tools, such as MRIs. Such screenings not only boost the cost of exams but often detect problems that once would have gone unnoticed and untreated.
These expensive tools and procedures have helped create health care inflation in the pet doctor world.
Americans are expected to spend nearly $11 billion on veterinary care in 2008, according to the American Pet Product Manufacturers Association. That would be an 8.5% increase from 2007.

Travel and Your Dog

2008-08-23T02:48:00.000-07:00

You want to get from here to there as safely and comfortably as you can with your pet. It's not such an easy proposition. Because pets have an instinctive fear of new surroundings, pet owners want to help them adjust quickly.
Pre Planning
This is the key to an easier transfer, regardless of the mode of transportation chosen. Travel arrangements should be completed as far in advance of moving day as is practical, keeping departure day tasks to a minimum. One person in the family should assume responsibility for the pet. Be sure to discuss the transfer of your pet with your travel agent. Your agent can help you select the best way to transfer your pet, offer helpful suggestions, and assist with, or take care of, any necessary shipping arrangements. The agent may recommend a pet handling agency that will take care of all the details of shipping pets, including boarding, pick-up, and delivery. Costs vary according to services rendered.
General Checklist
1. Take pet to veterinarian for checkup and health documentsapply for entry permit if one is needed; inquire about sedation for pet; obtain pet's health record; schedule second visit to vet if necessary; ask your vet to recommend a colleague in the new city.
2. Obtain travel identification tag.
3. Check destination state's pet entry regulations.

Health

The documents pertaining to your pet's health are important. You may be asked to show them at anytime, especially when traveling, so it is advisable to keep them handy. Any or all of the following may be required:Health Certificate: Interstate health certificates must accompany dogs and horses entering nearly all states. About half have the same requirement for cats, birds and other pets. In some cases, advance receipt of the health certificate by the destination state's regulatory agency is a prerequisite to entry of the pet.The health certificate must include a complete description of the pet, list all inoculations it has had, and state that it is free from infectious diseases.Have your pet examined by your veterinarian well in advance of departure date so there will be time for any treatment or inoculations recommended. Another examination just prior to departure may be necessary. If the pet is excitable, or prone to motion sickness when traveling, ask the vet to prescribe medication for it. Also ask if a colleague in your new area can be recommended.Permit: Some pets must have entry permits issued by the destination state's regulatory agency. Either you or your veterinarian may apply for the permit, for which there may be a charge. Receipt of an interstate health certificate from the state of origin may be requisite to issuance of the permit.

NOTE: Validity of health certificates and permits is strictly limited in several states. If moving to one of these, be sure your pet arrives within the valid period.

Rabies Tag: All but four states require dogs to have rabies inoculation, and a number have the same regulation for cats. State and local laws usually stipulate that the rabies tag be securely attached to the pet's collar.

travelling with your pet/ Train before you leave

2008-08-12T02:55:00.000-07:00

Sometimes, bringing your pet -- especially if it's as large as a horse, literally -- on vacation is simply impossible. These tips will help you make your vacations animal-inclusive!
Give yourself plenty of time to plan. The less time you have, the more difficult it is to plan a trip that includes your pet. Many B&Bs -- probably most -- are not equipped to handle guest pets, so be sure to check with the innkeeper before making a reservation. Ask the innkeeper what supplies (e.g., crate, food) you need to provide and what they have available. Don't leave this to chance, or you might find yourself spending vacation time buying pet food. Ask about stable conditions, local food suppliers, etc. before making reservations.
If you're not driving to your destination, be sure to obtain pet regulations from the travel company (airline, train company, bus company, etc.) you'll be using.If necessary, provide a travel crate for your pet that allows it to stand up comfortably.If you're traveling in your car, try to give the pet a vantage point that allows it to look out the window.

When you get to the inn, bring your pet inside first (even before luggage). Doing so can help reduce any anxiety the pet may be feeling. Follow whatever rules the innkeeper has. Remember, he or she probably has a lot of experience at boarding guests' pets and can help make your stay even more pleasant. Unless your pet has spacious outdoor accommodations, come back to the inn sometime in the middle of the day to comfort your pet (and perhaps take it outside for a potty break).

Remember your pet's temperament. If your pet doesn't play nice, don't let it be kept in an area with access to other animals. Be sure to thank the innkeeper for the extra effort it takes to board your pet. If your pet causes any damage to the inn, it's common courtesy to point it out and offer to pay it rather than leaving it for the innkeeper to discover after you've left.

CARING FOR DOGS

2008-07-29T15:27:00.000-07:00

A dog requires care, attention and a commitment to look after during his life that could be 10-15 years or more. The effort includes not only routine feeding, care and time spent with the dog, but also the provision of veterinary treatment, if the dog becomes ill. This can be expensive and there are a number of insurance companies that offer insurance cover for dogs to cover the veterinary expenses in the event of accident or illness.

A dog must be vaccinated at 8-10 weeks and then every year against Canine Distemper, Canine viral Canine Leptospirosis, Canine Parvovirus and in some countries, rabies. Moreover dogs need worming every 6 months and so there are regular medical costs associated with owning a dog.

EQUIPMENT

There are various items of equipment that will be needed for the dog, as well as many optional items that may be taken into account. It is best to buy basic equipment as feed bowls, water bowls, collar, dog food, dog beds and an appropriate dog toys before getting a dog, so that they are prepared for the arrival of a dog.

PLAY AND EXERCISE

A dog requires regular exercise to keep fit and prevent excess weight May cause health problems. For most dogs and exercise their game is a goal in life and so they take as much as you can give. However, it is important not to exercise too puppies, especially larger breeds, when bones and muscles are still developing.

A dog will also enjoy playing, whether with its owner or on its own initiative and whether the toys play an important role in a lifetime dog. There are several dog toys for pets at the disposal of stores and toys designed for chewing can be valuable to hijack a puppy chewing trends away from furniture. These toys also help to maintain a dog teeth clean and are therefore useful life. Most dogs love bullets but be sure to get the right size ball for your dog - too small balloon could be swallowed and get stuck in the throat of a dog.

Another key to Housebreaking

2008-07-19T18:19:00.000-07:00

Another key to Housebreaking is giving your dog a limited amount of space. Baby gates across doorways or a pet crate help to make a more confined area and help your pet to recognize this as his living space.

Their natural tendency is to go outside of their own living space to urinate so making this association for your pet will make your job easier. Lining this space with old news papers is a good idea at first as it facilitates a much easier cleanup of any accidents your pet might have. Also be aware that some surfaces are more pet-friendly than others. Try to confine your new pet to areas of the home with tile or vinyl floors which are much easier to clean. Avoid letting them have access to carpet or hardwood floors which retain odors and can be extensively damaged by an errant pup.

Remember to limit the amount of water your dog has access to at the end of the day as you will otherwise be making a walk with your pet in the middle of the night.
A quick walk outside at regularly timed intervals is advisable to training as this helps your pet to set an internal schedule.

Be certain to use a consistent keyword to tell your pet why you are out in the yard such as “potty” or “toilet” or anything you choose and do not return indoors until they have relieved themselves. Also remember to give praise when your dog relieves itself in appropriate places such as on newspapers or outdoors. Again consistent training is the key.

If your pet does have an accident indoors, correct the animal immediately and then clean the area using non-ammonia based products. Instead use an Enzyme based deodorizer to clean the area and be sure to remove all odor of the accident or the animal will repeat the behavior again.
If you follow these simple rules, your carpets and your new pet should be able to coexist peacefully and relatively free from stress.

Housebreaking Your Puppy

2008-07-11T21:34:00.000-07:00

Housebreaking is the first thing you will teach your new puppy. This should be started as soon as you take your dog home, but it takes patience. In general, puppies are unable to control their bladders and bowels until 12 weeks of age. If your puppy is younger than that, extra patience is required.

Set a schedule for your puppy when you begin housebreaking. Try to get up at the same time each morning, taking your puppy outside right away. Feed your puppy at the same times each day and take him outside immediately after eating.

Watch your puppy for signs such as sniffing, circling and pacing – these usually mean it is time to go. If you see these signs, take him outside immediately. If you catch him in the middle of an accident, say “no” firmly and take him outside to finish, praising him if he does. Never punish him by hitting or pushing his nose in the mess! This will only teach him to fear you. If you find an accident in the house, but do not catch him in the act – do not punish him. He will not associate the punishment with the action and will only become confused.

Pick a word for the action, such as “outside” or “do your business.” Use this phrase consistently so he will learn it as a command. Always bring your puppy to the same area outside while housebreaking. The odors in this area will encourage him to urinate and defecate here again. If he does his business, praise him.

When you are away from home, your puppy should stay in a crate. You may buy a larger crate for your puppy to grow into, but place a divider in it so that it is only large enough for your puppy to turn around and lie down. Instinctively, your puppy will not want to soil his own area. Be careful not to let your puppy stay in the cage for more than 4-6 hours, or he may have no choice but to relieve himself. If you are away from the house regularly, as many of us are for work, return home in the middle of each day to let your puppy outside. Arrange for someone else to let your puppy out if you will be unable to come home.

If you choose not to crate your dog when you are away from the house, set him up in a room with a non-absorbent floor. Place training pads at one end of the room and his bed and toys at the other. Generally, dogs prefer to urinate on absorbent materials, but they tend to avoid doing so in their own beds. Ideally, he will gravitate towards the training pads. This method may take longer than the crate method.Remember these rules:Praise him when he behaves.Keep a solid routine.Never punish him physically when caught in an accident. Do not correct him unless you catch him in the act.Housebreaking may take several months, so don’t give up. Remember that your puppy wants to please you, he just needs to learn how. Be clear with him when you praise or correct his actions. Eventually, you will see results.

Grooming your Dog

2008-07-02T21:07:00.000-07:00

Just like people, dogs need physical maintenance to look and feel their best. Fortunately, dogs do not need to bathe as often as people, but you do need to learn how much grooming your dog actually needs and keep it on a schedule. Generally, a dog’s grooming needs depend on the breed and hair type. If your dog has a skin, ear or nail condition, follow your veterinarian’s instructions regarding grooming your dog. Here are some general guidelines for routine dog grooming.

Hair Brushing

Most dogs enjoy being brushed, and sessions to strengthen the bond with your dog while keeping his coat healthy. A dog's minimum requirements depend brushing hair type. Choosing the right tool and follow these guidelines based on the type of hair. * Long hair dogs are usually require daily brushing to prevent apelmazamiento and tangled hair.

* Half of hair dogs are also prone to mats and tangles and should be brushed weekly.

* Short hair dogs can typically go about a month in between-brushing.
No matter what kind of hair, you can brush your dog a day - especially if he enjoys. More frequent brushing is recommended during the season detachment to avoid accumulation of excess undercoat and detachment. Shedding leaves are wonderful tools for doing so.

Nail Trimming
The dreaded trim nail is often detested by dogs and owners alike. Most dogs are apposed themselves with their paws handled, and many know how much it hurts when the nails are cut too short. Dog owners are often uncomfortable with the process for fear of pain, their dogs. Many dogs develop a strong aversion to nail trimming, if it pains them.

The best way to avoid this is to learn how to properly trim nails and caution. In the ideal case, a veterinary technician, veterinarian or groomer to show you how to trim your dog nails Most dogs need monthly nail mouldings, but your dog may need more or less dependent on the growth rate.

Dog Training

2008-06-23T22:02:00.000-07:00

No one of us like a dog wich is disobedient. Obedience training and proper socialization will help your dog become a welcome guest in most environments. Basic commands training will actually strengthen the bond between you and your dog, leading to a happier and less stressful life together. Just follow these simple steps to transform your dog from class clown to star pupil. Train your dog to sit, stay, lie down, and come when called. With a little practice, your dog will master all these basic skills and have a solid foundation to begin learning more advanced commands.

Train Your Dog to Sit

Teaching the sit command to your dog is usually quite simple, as dogs tend to sit naturally. The key is for your dog to associate the word with the action. This command sets the groundwork for other commands like stay and down.

Get your dog’s attention and show her that you have a treat in your hand. Hold the treat just above your dog’s nose (not too high or he might jump). Say your dog’s name followed by the word “sit,” spoken clearly and firmly. Move the treat back towards your dog’s ears. As soon as your dog’s rear lands on the ground, say “good sit” in an upbeat tone. Give your dog the treat followed by petting and praising. Repeat 5-6 times.

If your dog does not sit on her own after a few tries, avoid pushing her into a sitting position. Instead, spend some time watching him. Anytimeshe naturally sits, say “good sit,” then praise and reward him. Hold short training sessions throughout the day in various locations, both indoor and outdoors. Include the front door and food bowl as regular training locations. This will make him more likely to sit when greeting guests or before feeding. Once your dog becomes and expert at sitting, you no longer need to give a treat every time only occasionally. However, rewarding with praise is always a good idea.

Train Your Dog to Lie Down

Teaching the down command to your dog is almost as simple as sitting. This command is very useful to help your dog calm down in a hectic situation, or to keep him in the stay command for a long period of time. Get your dog’s attention and show him that you have a treat in your hand.

Hold the treat in front your dog’s nose. Say your dog’s name followed by the word “down,” spoken clearly and firmly. Slowly move the treat towards the ground. As soon as your dog’s elbows and hocks are on the ground, say “good down” in an upbeat tone. Give your dog the treat followed by petting and praising. Repeat 5-6 times.

If your dog does not lie down on his own after a few tries, avoid pushing him down. Next time he naturally lies down, say “down,” then praise and reward him. Hold short training sessions throughout the day in various locations, both indoor and outdoors. Once your dog becomes and expert at lying down, you no longer need to give a treat every time – only occasionally. However, rewarding with praise is always a good idea.

Train Your Dog to Come When Called

Teaching your dog to come to you when called is one of the most important basic commands. Once this command is mastered, you can protect him from a potentially dangerous situation by calling him to you. You can teach this command to a young puppy as soon as he learns his name.

Start indoors at the end of your dog’s leash. While he is not paying close attention to you, say his name followed by “come” in a clear, excited tone. Make movements such as tapping your knees and stepping backwards. As soon as your dog comes to you, praise him lavishly without causing overexcitement. If he does not come, lightly tug on the leash to encourage him. Again, keep an upbeat, excited tone to your voice – show him that coming to you is a very positive thing. Repeat 5 to 6 times, gradually moving outdoors. As he improves, practice it without the leash only if you have a fenced-in yard.

Never use the “come” command with an angry tone in your voice. Do not call your dog to you for negative things such as punishment, baths, or pills. Go get him instead for these things. Rewarding your dog with treats may be risky – treats should be used infrequently or not at all. If you call him in an emergency situation and he sees that you have no treats, he may not come to you. The reward should be something you can always provide, such as praise. If your dog tries to run away from you, do not run after him – this only turns it into a game. Try turning the game around by calling his name and running away from him. He may then run after you in play. If so, say “good come” and reward him with praise. This can be especially helpful in emergency situations.

choosing a rescue dog

2008-06-17T16:14:00.000-07:00

There is something very satisfying to take in a dog rescue, in many cases, someone else was either unable to process or it became a burden or a nuisance, it surprises me that people take on dogs almost as a fashion accessory and discard it when it is not fresh or more convenient. The decision to take on a dog should never be taken lightly whole family must buy into the idea or the problems it causes can not be terminal for a relationship that May be already creaking. I have had clients who told me they bought a dog so as not to seek its place during the march, it is clear that they hated animals and unfortunately the dog knew it was wrong Beloved and unwanted. In most of these cases, I recommend re-homing. Dogs can be extremely lucid, they may suffer from loneliness, anxiety, stress, depression, grief and often for the loss of pals and owners. Sometimes they give the will to live and die by their pain. The owners are not always the same amount and the absolute loyalty, they must sometimes take on dogs without thinking through what the long-term commitment is really dog ownership

Here are some points to keep in mind when choosing a dog .

If your time is limited, choose a dog that needs little grooming, minimal training, and only moderate exercise.

If your budget is tight, choose a small-to-medium dog that needs little grooming and minimal training ands less food.

If you are an inexperienced dog owner , do not choose a large dominant dog or a dog with high energy level unless you are committed to six months of steady, patient, consistent training and a dozen years of daily walks of a mile or more.

If you have children or elderly people in your home, do not choose a large, dominant dog that needs lots of training and exercise or a high-strung dog that is fearful of high-pitched voices and childish behaviour.

Be prepared to walk the dog at least twice a day and to clean up his/her waste.

They may not be any background or information on the dog not even the dog's original name or age or even what crossbreed it really is. Many will have been found wandering the streets cold and hungry. Whatever the case there are a few principles and rules you should adhere to.

Rule 1. Do your homework decide on size and basic type of breed before you even start looking. Look at your working and time commitments. Can you really afford the time and expense of dog ownership?

Rule 2. If you have children under five I would strongly recommend against taking on a rescue dog, the temperament may be unknown or masked by the environment of the kennels. In most cases responsible rescue centres will not allow their dogs to be re-homed to couples with young children.

Rule 3. Never buy on impulse or because you feel sorry for a frightened and timid dog, especially if you are not an experienced and confident dog owner.

Rule 4. Discuss what you want in a dog (e.g. an active dog that will play willingly, happily go on long walks, or a homely laid back breed of dog that will happily sit for hours by the fire, and only requires gentle exercise.

Rule 5 . If you have decided on a pedigree check the breed requirements and possible problems, discuss the positive and negatives of that breed with breeders and the rescue staff.

Rule 6. Don't expect to walk into a rescue centre and walk out with a dog. They will need to check your suitability to own a dog including your home, garden, and work commitments, in many cases they will pay a home visit and will require you to complete a long questionnaire.

Rule 7. Once you have decided that you are going to re-home a dog then prepare the home and garden well before the arrival

Austrian researchers train dogs to use computers

2008-06-14T22:48:00.000-07:00

Yeah, teaching a canine how to operate a computer may sound pretty complex, but considering that one such animal was actually trained to sniff out and snag cellphones for its dubious owner, we guess it's not too difficult to conceive after all. In a recent study published in Animal Cognition, researchers from the University of Vienna in Austria taught four dogs to use computer automated touch-screens in order to carry out classification tests, theoretically eliminating any "potential human influence." In experiments that sought to see if dogs could indeed visually categorize pictures and transfer learning to new scenarios, the four subjects "were shown landscape and dog photographs and expected to make a selection on a computer touchscreen." Eventually, the authors concluded that using computers in animal testing could open up new windows of opportunity in testing cognitive abilities, but c'mon, you know those pups were just clicking around to see if their testing station would in fact play Doom.

Canine Nutrition - Importance of water in dog diet

2008-06-12T20:58:00.000-07:00

Your dog the body is composed of 70% water. He can live even if he loses all the fat and half of the protein in his body. But he will die if his body loses only 1 / 10 of its water. To survive, a full-grown dog requires at least two milliliters (MLS) of water for each pound he weighs each day (taking into account that 30 milliliters of water per 1 ounce). The two milliliters are just enough for the dog to produce urine in his body. Without enough water for urine production, your dog, any dog, will not be able to live. If there is an unlimited amount of water, your dog will drink much more than the necessary two millimeters. This is especially true if you always have a bowl of fresh water. Give your dog the slightest amount of water each day can be enough for him to survive, but not for long. Lack of water is bad for the body and gradually ended its functions. It will eventually turn weak, sick and die.

How important it is to your dog more water than the least amount needed is in several respects:

1st Water is used to help to digest and absorb nutrients.

2nd It is used to burn fuel, which is energy.

3rd Water is responsible for maintaining a normal body temperature.

4th Do you drink enough water replaces the fluids lost in the body during the secretions.

5th Water is also responsible for the mixing of different types of chemicals in the body, because they dissolve and transform into various chemical reactions.

6th Water carries nutrients to cells and transfers toxic waste products from the cells of the body parts for proper disposal. With the lack of water, these institutions will not be able to get rid of toxins from the body.

7th Last but not least, water is needed to regulate blood-acid level.

As you can see, water is almost always required for each function, held in the dog's body. And because of their versatility and the extent to which it is used, water is considered the most important nutrient that is required for all breeds of dogs.

Pets and poisons

2008-06-08T20:41:00.000-07:00

PREVENTING POISONING IN THE HOME:

Keep all medicines out of reach preferably in a locked kitchen cupboard

Keep human and veterinary medicines separate

Never give animals medicines intended for human use – only medicines prescribed by your vet.

Some foods (for example, chocolate,onions, grapes, raisins, sultanas, avocados,certain nuts, liquorice, xylitol-sweetened foods and sweets) can be toxic. Do not allow animals access to foods intended for human consumption. Pets should only be given food and treats formulated for animals.

Some plants are hazardous (for example,lilies to cats, daffodils) – keep houseplants and floral displays out of reach of pets.

Restrict access to cleaning, DIY and car products (for example, fuels, antifreeze, white spirit and lubricating oils).

PREVENTING POISONING IN THE GARDEN OR OPEN SPACES:

Prevent access to gardens where pesticides or fertilisers have recently been used, especially slug pellets and rodent baits.

Access to such baits can be reduced by placing them in narrow tubes etc.

Keep pesticides/herbicides in a safe and inaccessible place – away from all pets.

Never leave buckets or watering cans full of mixed chemicals.

Do not allow animals to drink from ponds/puddles that appear oily or otherwise polluted.

Be careful not to leave plant bulbs lying around.

SUBSTANCES OF LOW TOXICITY

The following is a list of substances that are frequently eaten by pets. If these are eaten it can generally be anticipated that there will be no clinical signs, other than drooling, vomiting and/or diarrhea.

Antacid tablets (‘over the counter’)
Blu-tack or other similar adhesives
Chalk
Charcoal
Coal (real or artificial)
Cotoneaster species
Cut-flower/houseplant food
Expanded polystyrene
Folic acid
Fuchsia species
Holly (Ilex species)
Honeysuckle (Lonicera species)
Matches
Mistletoe (Viscum album)
Oral contraceptives and hormone replacementtherapy (HRT) tablets
Pyracantha species
Rowan (Sorbus aucuparia)
Silica gel
Wax candles/crayons

Although in many cases treatment may not be necessary, if you are at all concerned then contact your vet for advice. The animal should always have easy access to drinking water.

Housebreaking Your Puppy

2008-06-08T14:15:00.000-07:00

Housebreaking is the first thing you will teach your new puppy. This should start as soon as you take your dog home, but it needs patience. In general, puppies are unable to control their bladders and intestines, up to 12 weeks. If your puppy is younger than that, moreover, requires patience.

A schedule should be set for your puppy when you begin housebreaking. Try to get up at the same time in morning everyday. , Take your puppy outside right away. Feed your puppy at the same time every day and take him outside immediately after eating.

Watch your puppy for signs such as sniffing, circling and pacing – these usually mean it is time to go. If you see these signs, take him outside immediately. If you catch him in the middle of an accident, say “no” firmly and take him outside to finish, praising him if he does. Never punish him by hitting or pushing his nose in the mess! This will only teach him to fear you. If you find an accident in the house, but do not catch him in the act – do not punish him. He will not associate the punishment with the action and will only become confused.

Pick a word for the action, such as “outside” or “do your business.” Use this phrase consistently so he will learn it as a command. Always bring your puppy to the same area outside while housebreaking. The odors in this area will encourage him to urinate and defecate here again. If he does his business, praise him.

When you are away from home, your puppy should stay in a crate. You may buy a larger crate for your puppy to grow into, but place a divider in it so that it is only large enough for your puppy to turn around and lie down. Instinctively, your puppy will not want to soil his own area. Be careful not to let your puppy stay in the cage for more than 4-6 hours, or he may have no choice but to relieve himself. If you are away from the house regularly, as many of us are for work, return home in the middle of each day to let your puppy outside. Arrange for someone else to let your puppy out if you will be unable to come home.

If you choose not to crate your dog when you are away from the house, set him up in a room with a non-absorbent floor. Place training pads at one end of the room and his bed and toys at the other. Generally, dogs prefer to urinate on absorbent materials, but they tend to avoid doing so in their own beds. Ideally, he will gravitate towards the training pads. This method may take longer than the crate method.

Remember these rules:Praise him when he behaves.Keep a solid routine.Never punish him physically when caught in an accident. Do not correct him unless you catch him in the act.Housebreaking may take several months, so don’t give up. Remember that your puppy wants to please you, he just needs to learn how. Be clear with him when you praise or correct his actions. Eventually, you will see results.

Funny Photos of Dogs Dressed Up

2008-06-04T02:02:00.000-07:00

We all see them all the time on the road, dogs in sweaters in cold weather, dogs in Bandanas and sunglasses enjoying the sun and dogs in fancy dress getting a little special attention. Do all of us dress up their dog? We were asking, so we asked. How many of you dress up your Pooch?

Of the 8000 dog owners surveyed 58.8% replied that they dress with a dog fancy jacket, T-shirt, bandana, hat or sunglasses. Although 41.4% of dog lovers, not answered.

What about what we wear? Although we all love our dogs, not everyone feels the need to shout it out in the world. The almost 59% of respondents indicated that they are not related to wear dog clothing and accessories that tell people they have a dog. There were still 41.2% that really do it!. So, if you and your dog wear matching clothes on tours, you probably are not alone!

Speaking of fashionable dogs, I have a very cute photo to share with you. All you dog lovers can share your photos of dogs dressed.

Do you have a dog that gets a lot of attention when you go out on the town? Share your story (and photo) with us!

Dog Breeds for Apartment Life part -2

2008-05-23T07:29:00.000-07:00

West Highland White Terrier

This small white terrier is playful and loveable but does require some exercise to keep him happy. The perfect size for an apartment, the Westie is a good watch dog and faithful companion that needs some grooming to keep his coat mat and tangle free. They are fairly friendly toward strangers and get along well with behaved children.

Boston Terrier

The Boston is a small black and white terrier that loves to make you laugh. After brief periods of activity, the Boston loves to curl up on the sofa while you read a good book. Obedient and loyal, the Boston is a good watch dog. Most reliable with children, especially good with elderly people and very friendly with.

Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkie is a tiny dog with lots of spunk. They are happy to spend their days lounging on the sofa, but these calm dogs require regular grooming. Weighing less than 10 pounds, this breed is well suited for apartment life.

Pomeranian

This little fluff ball looks just like a tiny fox. Weighing around 5 pounds, the Pom is an adorable breed that thrives on human companionship. Requiring little space, the Pom is perfect for an apartment. Not recommended for very young children. Too much attention from children can make these dogs nervous and they may become snappish.

Dog Breeds for Apartment Life

2008-05-21T10:56:00.000-07:00

Dogs make their homes in the city and country, mansions, houses, condominiums, even in apartments. For some tribes, lives in an apartment is easy. If you live in an apartment and looking to add a dog to your life, consider one of the following races.

Poodle

Miniaturale toy poodle and make excellent pets apartment. These dogs crave human companionship, but need rides daily. Well known to be reduced tie, the poodle is one of the most popular canine residents of the apartment.
Poodles may snap if they are teased or surprised. They do best with older, considerate children and are generally good with other pets and dogs.

Bichon Frise

This white fluff ball is a happy-go-lucky dog. Faithful and obedient, the bichon is a wonderful addition to any apartment. Weighing around 15 to 20 pounds, the bichon does require regular grooming to keep his coat looking great. This sociable trait also means that they are fine in the company of other dogs & pets and are excellent with children.

Schipperke

Although not well known, this breed is great for apartment living. A small black dog with no tail, the Schipperke generally weighs around 10 to 18 pounds. This is an active dog that likes to be involved in all aspects of the family. Daily exercise is a must. They are wary of strangers and may seem somewhat aloof, but are actually very devoted and loyal, especially with children.

Pug

10 to 25 pounds in weight, the pug is perfect for apartment dwellers. -- To promote the face of the small and compact, pug is a clown's heart. Short hair, this breed does not require special attention to the other members of the family love. He was for a short stroll, he was sleeping the day away happy. Pugs get along well with other dogs and pets, and they behave impeccably with both children and visitors.

Keep On Wathing for more appartment breeds. We are eager to know whether you like it or not & write us if you want any further information about any breed.

Dog Mental Health

2008-05-21T00:46:00.000-07:00

Your dog’s mental health is just as important as their physical health. Keeping your dog happy and healthy is your main goal. Keeping your dog healthy also includes his mental well being. We will be talking about a few of the mental problems that your dog can have and ways to help your dog with his mental health.

Do dogs get depressed?

Of course, dogs get depressed. They go through bouts of depression and you will notice your dog moping about and not wanting to play, only drinking small amounts of water, and you may even notice them losing a lot of weight. You want your dog’s mental health to be good, but how can you tell what is causing this depression?

After you have ruled out a physical aliment by taking your dog to the vet; now you can look around and see what may be causing this change in your dog’s attitude and help get your dog’s mental health back on track.

Grief can cause depression in dogs just as it can in the human race. Has your dog lost a playmate recently? Maybe a dog down the street has moved away. Or maybe the child in your family has gone off to college. Your dog longs for that companionship and now it is gone. If you have moved or have left your dog in the care of others while you were on vacation this can also be the root of your dog’s depression. Start helping your dog enjoy life again. Give him extra attention and love. If he has lost his doggy playmate, take him to the park or to the doggie daycare so he can play with other dogs and maybe make a new friend that will help him over this depression. This may just pull him out of his depression.

Depression untreated can lead to more serious physical problems that you are sure to want to avoid. If you can not seem to bring the zing back into your dog’s life you may want to ask your vet for some anti-depression medicine.

Dog Anxiety is probably one of the most common mental disorders in dogs all over the world. It is your responsibility to notice when your dog is stressed and what causes his stress and to keep him out of these types of situations for his protection or to help him overcome his anxieties.

The different signs of anxiety and stress are excessive drooling, whining, panting, moaning, shivering, or reluctance to move.The different types of anxieties and how to know them:

Separation Anxiety

This is probably the most common anxiety in dogs. Your dog will be soiling the floor, chewing up furniture, and their barking or howling can be heard clear down the block are sure signs of separation anxiety.

Noise Anxiety

Noise Anxiety is a problem for thousands of types of animals. Dogs that are afraid of loud noises often run to hide, but because of their fear they do not pay attention and may endanger themselves by running into oncoming traffic, etc.

Social Anxiety

This anxious behavior is seen in dogs that as puppies were never around other dogs or a lot of people. This can be seen when your dog is around others if he tries to cower in a corner to hide. He is feeling overwhelmed by his surroundings and all the commotion from the other dogs or extra people.

These are just some of the problems that your dog may have. Remember to pay attention to your dog; he is your friend and companion. He needs your protection as well as your love.

Dog Diseases

2008-05-19T23:27:00.000-07:00

Dogs get sick from pests, viruses, bacteria, protozoa and fungi. In some cases, these infections and deadly diseases are less taken early and treated. Rabies, distemper, parvovirus, hepatitis, influenza paradise, and coronavirus are important viral disease of dogs. Lyme disease, leptospirosis, and a kind of kennel cough are bacterial diseases.

These infections are not limited to dogs and can be found in other animal populations. Rabies, Lyme, and lepto also infect people. Each of these diseases can be prevented by judicious vaccination of dogs and puppies adults.

For example, parvovirus, distemper spread over a course of days, but parvovirus can overwhelm a dog within a few hours of the first symptoms and cause death within 48-72 hours.

It is worldwide and parvovirus is a highly contagious disease that attacks the intestinal tract, white blood cells, and sometimes the heart.

It is spread through contact with the feces of infected dogs and can be transported on shoes, cash, equipment, or for the hair or feet of infected dogs.

Symptoms of parvovirus appear to five-seven days after exposure and include depression, loss of appetite, vomiting and severe diarrhoea. Feces are generally light grey or yellow-gray and can be streaked with blood.

Vaccinate to prevent Dog Diseases

Obviously the owners of dogs are facing some decisions in taking a decision on the vaccination programme for their pets and show dogs. For this there is no doubt that serious diseases such as distemper and dogs are best prevented, as many victims die and those who live may face lifelong health problems.

The owners must weigh the consequences of each of their dogs, ask questions, discuss alternatives with their veterinarians, and decide accordingly.

10 Ways to Decrease Your Allergies to Cats!

2008-05-18T22:34:00.000-07:00

Naturally, if we were sane and rational about our allergies, we would stay away from anything that makes us sick. Many of us, however, are not sane and rational about pets, especially our cats. Although cat allergy symptoms may never go away completely, they are manageable. Remember this basic fact about cat allergens. They need to be airborne and you need to breathe them in for you to have an allergic reaction to them. Cat allergen is very small so it remains suspended in the air longer. There is also a high rate of recontamination (because the cats are running around the house). Here are some recommended steps to decrease your (or your partner's) cat allergies.

1. No more cats sleeping on the bed. Sorry, this is a small price to pay for allergy relief. If you get your symptoms under control by all means invite them back, but give yourself a break while you are trying to abate your symptoms.

2. Keep them out of the bedroom altogether. Close the bedroom door to try and keep the cat allergen down in the bedroom. Your bedroom should be a sanctuary from allergens. So tempt your cats to sleep elsewhere during the day.

3. Wash all bedding in 140-degree hot water at least twice monthly.This eliminates both dust mite and cat allergen (because we know some of you will still let them sneak up on the bed every now and then).

4. Use HEPA air filters in rooms where your cats frequent.Since cat allergen is so difficult to remove, a good HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) air purifier is essential for cleaning the air in your home. HEPA air purifiers do require continued filter replacement, but when push comes to shove and you are in need of allergy relief, a good HEPA filter will do it for you.

5. Vacuum up cat allergen with a high grade HEPA vacuum cleaner twice weekly.Vacuum walls, carpet, flooring, chairs, and furniture...everywhere. Use the hand tools on the vacuum. Cat allergen particles are very small and invasive so you really have to do a thorough job. Good hand tools on your vacuum cleaner are the answer here. Also, installing a central vacuum will help pick up the rest.

6. Use a vapor steam cleaner to clean your home.In addition to vacuuming, vapor steam cleaners are now proven by research to be extremely helpful in killing off the cat proteins/dander, which are embedded in your carpets and upholstery. Steam cleaners provide a chemical-free way of cleaning and killing dust mites, bacteria, mold spores and cat allergen.

7. Wash your hands immediately after petting your cat and do not rub your eyes.Rubbing your eyes can result in itchy eyes for hours. Use a strong anti-bacterial soap to avoid this problem.

8. Clean your cat.Some people wash their cats to reduce the amount of cat allergen that is released from their cat into the air, but research seems to be conflicting about its effectiveness. Allerpet, a well-known brand of liquid that reduces cat allergen in the air, can be applied to your cats' coat and is available from your local veterinarian. Alternatively, you can get a micro fiber cloth and just damp rub down the cats' coats to rid it of visible dander. The majority of cats would prefer this to the highly dreaded bath.

9. Confine your cats to one area of the house. I know this will be difficult for some people but this at least controls the cat allergens to a separate place where you can concentrate your air purifier and cleaning efforts.

10. You DO NOT have to get rid of your CAT! If you do a good job with step numbers 1-9, your cat allergies should be significantly decreased. Keeping a cat when you have allergies takes a concerted effort, and is only for those who are nutty enough about their cats (like us), to go to all this trouble.

Allergies in Cats

2008-05-18T21:53:00.000-07:00

Just like humans a common health problem found in cats is allergy. It's strange that we always worry about humans being allergic to cats, but so seldom hear about what cats are allergic to!

In this way, cats aren't that much different from humans. Some foreign substance, commonly referred to as an allergen or antigen, triggers a situation in which the cat's immune system goes into hyper drive and produces symptoms of an allergic condition.

When a cat is allergic to something, common indications will be itchy skin, coughing and/or sneezing in the case of a respiratory problem, or vomiting or diarrhea in the case of a digestive allergy.
Allergies in cats seem to fall into these major categories. Allergies to fleas, foods, things inhaled, or something they have come in contact with.

Contact
Contact allergies generally result in a fairly localized reaction on the skin. The cat may scratch a lot and/or there may be an indication of irritation at the place of contact. Most common causes of contact allergies in cats would obviously be items with which they come in close contact such as flea collars, bedding, toys, etc. The simplest cure is to remove the contact. Take the collar off or change the bedding, for example. If the irritation persists, or if you still need effective flea control, consult with your veterinarian.
Some cats may also experience allergic reactions to certain plastics and/or metals. If you suspect this in your cat, you may wish to change to a ceramic or glass feeding bowl. Another problem which may mimic a contact allergy can occur if you simply do not rinse your cat carefully and completely after its bath. Residual shampoo or soap on the skin can cause dermatitis which can be mistaken for an allergic reaction.
Happily, contact allergies in cats are the least common type.

Fleas
Flea allergies, on the other hand, are very common in cats. Any normal cat will commonly experience irritation from flea bites, but a cat with a genuine flea allergy will have a more severe itching reaction to the flea's saliva. A normal cat may simply bite or scratch for a while and then go on to other things, but a cat with a flea allergy may scratch, chew, and worry at the spot until large amounts of fur are lost. This constant attempt to relieve the maddening itch or irritation may result in open sores which can add the risk of infection to the allergy’s list of evils. In most cats, the most common area to be affected is going to be on the back just before the tail. The cat may also create spots of sores or scabs on the neck and head. Obviously, effective flea control is a good first step which can help avoid the situation completely and save your pet a lot of suffering and discomfort.

Inhalants

Inhalant types of allergies (atopy) are even more common cat allergies than flea and contact allergies! In fact, this type of allergy is probably the most common allergic problem in cats. It is possible that your cat may be allergic to the exact same allergens that you are! Tree pollens, grass pollens, and weed pollens along with the rest of the items we humans fear; mold, mildew, dust mites, and dust itself can all trigger allergic reactions in both cats and the humans they have trained to tend them.

A big difference between humans and cats, however is that while humans will most commonly react to inhaled allergens by sneezing or coughing, a cat will more commonly react by scratching an itch caused by those same allergens. Unlike a contact allergy, the cat's reaction to inhaled allergens will be a general itching of the skin as opposed to a severe reaction at a specific spot. If your cat seems to be scratching a lot and it doesn't appear to be local, as in reaction to a flea collar for example, there is a good chance that he or she is experiencing a reaction to some inhaled substance.

Food

As in humans, true food allergies in cats can be extremely difficult to pinpoint. One reason is that they commonly demonstrate many of the symptoms of distress seen in the other groups. True food allergies in cats can cause itching and/or respiratory problems. Additionally, true food allergies can cause digestive difficulties as can other illnesses or toxic substances. In cats, food allergies are usually not present from birth, but are developed after long exposure to foods that have been eaten for long periods. Most food allergies will center around the type of protein common in the cat's diet, such as beef, pork, poultry, or lamb. Simply eliminating that type of protein by changing to another type of food will usually take care of the problem.

Allergy, Irritation, or Something Else?

There are two difficult points for the cat owner when they begin to detect signs that lead them to believe that their cat may have an allergy.

1. The cat may actually be reacting to an irritant, rather than an allergen, and

2. The symptoms may be the result of some other condition, possibly one more dangerous.

For example, a flea infestation may cause flea bites which will itch and the cat will scratch. This is normal. You would scratch too, and extensively, if fleas were munching on you! However, if your cat is allergic to the flea's saliva, they will actually inflict damage on themselves in an attempt to relieve themselves of the intensified itch. However, the itch could be, as pointed out, the result of a food allergy, a contact allergy, or some undiagnosed medical condition such as a fungal infection (perhaps caused by ringworm, for example), mange, or some other type of skin infection which might have been caused by bacteria.

While a little astute detective work on the part of the pet owner may often alleviate the problem, only the veterinarian will usually be able to tell for sure what the cause and effect may actually be...and how to best deal with the situation. However, the vet does not live with your cat, so it is important to note carefully what the symptoms are, when they began, how they have progressed, what steps you have already taken, and what happened as a result of those steps. All of this information will help your vet in getting to the truth behind the apparent allergy in your cat. Your cat's veterinarian will also have diagnostic tools at his or her disposal for getting at the cause of your pet's apparently "allergic" reactions.

Basic Cat Training - How Your Cat or Kitten Learns

2008-05-18T10:49:00.000-07:00

Train your cat before mealtimes, as a food reward won't be so enticing on a full stomach. At the same time, don't 'starve' cats to make them eager to learn; a hungry cat will quickly become an annoyed one.

When you start training, eliminate any distracting noise from the TV or stereo as it will make the process almost impossible.

Keep sessions short, ending them before your cat gets bored or tired. 15 minutes is ideal and keeps your 'student' fresh.

Don't vary the training sessions - make sure the trainer, commands, signals and rewards are always the same.

Try to spend a minimum of 10-15 minutes every day and stick with it. Training your cat once a month won't get the results you want. The key to cat training is to ensure that whatever you want your cat to do is very rewarding and enjoyable. Whatever you do not want your cat to indulge in must never be rewarding or fun, in fact, it should be unpleasant.

When training your cat to sit, stay and heel is your goal, maybe you should get a dog. When training your cat to perch sent to your toilet to do his business is your goal, perhaps this article is not for you either. This article is for all of us would like the training of our cats to use the litter box instead of our Comforter, cabinet or shoes.

This is for owner, would like the training of their cat with a scratching instead of stereo speakers. If you as I admire your cat as a cat, and you want him to behave as nothing more than a cat, but a well-behaved. Before we start our training cats to do something or stop to do something, we must consider how cats learn.

They do not understand English, they can not read books or attend lectures. You learn through experience. If the experience is good, it will try to repeat. If the experience is unpleasant, they will try to avoid it in the future. They enjoy raking the furniture with their claws, so that they continue to do so. But it is already a shock when they hold their nose in a candle flame so that they do not happen again.

The key to training is to ensure that everything you want your cat to do is extremely rewarding and enjoyable. No matter what you do not want your cat to indulge in must never reward or fun, in fact, it must be unpleasant. Sometimes we inadvertently reward for our cats obnoxious behaviour. A common complaint is that the cat pounces on the owner in five clock early, meowing and generally a storm as a pest. What do the owners do? You get up and feed the cat, play with him or let him outside. Kitty has learned that his behavior is him exactly what he wants.

Puppy Training ? Basic Commands

2008-05-08T04:32:00.000-07:00

There are of course many reasons for owners to want a calm, obedient and faithful dog. For one thing, obedient and trained dogs are happier dogs, less likely to get into tussles with people or with other dogs. Another reason is that many communities require that the dogs living in their neighborhoods be well trained.

This is especially true for many breeds thought to have aggression and behavior problems ? dog breeds like pit bulls and rottweilers for instance. And of course, training your dog well will also make he or she a much better family companion, especially in households where there are young children. Many studies have shown that proper dog training makes a big impact when it comes to cutting down the number of dog bits and other behavior problems encountered by dog owning households.

When considering training your own dog, or having someone else help you train it, there are certain basic commands that must be mastered in order for a dog to be considered truly trained. These basic commands include:? Heel ? it is important that any dog learn to walk beside its owner on a loose lead, neither pulling ahead nor lagging behind? Respond to the word No ? the word no is one word that all dogs must learn.

Training your dog to respond to this important word can save you a ton of trouble.? Sit ? Training your dog to sit on command is a vital part of any dog training program.? Stay ? A well trained dog should remain where his or her owner commands, so stay is a very important command in dog training.? Down ? Lying down on command is more than just a cute trick; it is a key component of any successful dog training program.Dog training does much more than just create an obedient, willing companion. Training your dog properly actually strengthens the bond that already exists between dog and handler.

Dogs are pack animals, and they look to their pack leader to tell them what to do. The key to successful dog training is to set yourself up as that pack leader.Establishing yourself as pack leader is a very important concept for any potential dog trainer to understand.
There is only one leader in every pack of dogs, and the owner must establish him or herself as the dominant animal. Failure to do so leads to all manner of behavior problems.

A properly trained dog will respond properly to all the owner?s commands, and will not display anxiety, displeasure or confusion. A good dog training program will focus on allowing the dog to learn just what is expected of it, and will use positive reinforcement to reward desired behaviors.In addition to making the dog a good member of the community, obedience training is a great way to fulfill some of the dog?s own needs, including the need for exercise, the security that comes with knowing what is expected of it, a feeling of accomplishment and a good working relationship with its handler.

Dog training gives the dog an important job to do, and an important goal to reach.Giving the dog a job is more important than you may think. Dogs were originally bred by humans to do important work, such as herding sheep, guarding property and protecting people. Many dogs today have no important job to do, and this can often lead to boredom and neurotic behavior.Basic obedience training, and ongoing training sessions, provide the dog with an important job to do. This is especially important for high energy breeds like German shepherds and border collies. Training sessions are a great way for these high energy dogs to use up their extra energy and simply to enjoy themselves.