MASONVILLE, Colo. - Zoey is a Chihuahua, but when a rattlesnake lunged at her owners' 1-year-old grandson, she was a real bulldog.
Booker West was splashing his hands in a birdbath in his grandparents' northern Colorado back yard when the snake slithered up to the toddler, rattled and struck. Five-pound Zoey jumped in the way and took the bites.
"She got in between Booker and the snake, and that's when I heard her yipe," said Monty Long, the boy's grandfather.
The dog required treatment and for a time it appeared she might not survive. Now she prances about.
"These little bitty dogs, they just don't really get credit," Booker's grandma Denise Long told the Loveland Daily Reporter-Herald
Tuesday, 24 July 2007
Wednesday, 11 July 2007
Puppies found trapped in suitcase
A "wriggling" suitcase discovered abandoned in Leeds was found to contain eight puppies, squeezed in with just a tiny hole through which to breathe.
The eight-week-old puppies, which were found in the Middleton area, are now recovering from their ordeal at the Dogs Trust rehoming centre in Leeds.
Staff said they were looking for new homes for Goggles, Flip, Flop, Amber, Solaire, Sunshine, Speedo and Snorkel.
The centre said it was dealing with a "puppy crisis" and appealed for help.
'Beyond belief'
Manager of the home, Amanda Sands, said: "We were told the woman who found them noticed that the suitcase appeared to be wriggling and squirming, and got the shock of her life when she opened it up.
"It is beyond belief that someone could dump these pups in such a heartless way.
"We also had a litter of six pups abandoned, so with these new ones to look after we've got a puppy crisis on our hands.
"Please do step forward if you have the time and energy to bring up a pup."
from the BBC
Tuesday, 10 July 2007
Some Helpful Tips for Choosing the Right Tropical Fish
If you are starting out new in your tropical fish hobby then you may be wondering just what type of fish you should get. Perhaps you want something a bit more advanced than the traditional goldfish that sat on your dresser as a child. The good news is that there is such a wide variety of tropical fish nowadays that you can pretty much find one that will fit your personality and setting. Let’s check out some tips for helping you choose the right ones for your aquarium!
* Now think of this for a moment. Say you purchase 4 small Angelfish thinking they are perfect for your tank. They look great until a year later you wake up and realize that they have grown and are now over 110mm in length! Suddenly that aquarium that housed them with plenty of room is cramped and the Angelfish aren’t looking too healthy. It’s important when choosing your tropical fish you not only account for the space they take now, but how much they will take as they grow older.
* A piece of advice any good tropical fish hobbyist will give you is to purchase your fish from a reputable dealer. Wal-Mart is not the place to be buying fish you plan to keep for years. A pet store or aquatic supply shop that takes pride in what they sell will make sure you are getting quality stock. Any sick fish will be isolated from the rest of the bunch. At mass merchandisers that sell fish you are pretty much “hoping for the best”. It’s worthwhile to spend a little more money to make sure you are not going to get a sick fish that could potentially infect your entire tank!
* Just like people, different fish have different requirements in what makes a good environment for them to live in. For example, Angelfish tend to favor tall tanks, while Tetras and Danios like space as they tend to school together and love to race each other around! A fish like a Labyrinth, as the name suggests, like places they can hide so be sure to have rocks, plants and other decorations they can retreat off too.
When stocking the fish in the tank, keep in mind that if you try and add too many you will get what is called toxic shock syndrome and risk losing your entire tank! Seek out advice if you are not familiar in how many fish per gallon you need in your tank or are unsure about the space requirements of what you plan to purchase. Again, this is where it helps to go to a store that specializes in tropical fish that can give you expert advice.
* Now think of this for a moment. Say you purchase 4 small Angelfish thinking they are perfect for your tank. They look great until a year later you wake up and realize that they have grown and are now over 110mm in length! Suddenly that aquarium that housed them with plenty of room is cramped and the Angelfish aren’t looking too healthy. It’s important when choosing your tropical fish you not only account for the space they take now, but how much they will take as they grow older.
* A piece of advice any good tropical fish hobbyist will give you is to purchase your fish from a reputable dealer. Wal-Mart is not the place to be buying fish you plan to keep for years. A pet store or aquatic supply shop that takes pride in what they sell will make sure you are getting quality stock. Any sick fish will be isolated from the rest of the bunch. At mass merchandisers that sell fish you are pretty much “hoping for the best”. It’s worthwhile to spend a little more money to make sure you are not going to get a sick fish that could potentially infect your entire tank!
* Just like people, different fish have different requirements in what makes a good environment for them to live in. For example, Angelfish tend to favor tall tanks, while Tetras and Danios like space as they tend to school together and love to race each other around! A fish like a Labyrinth, as the name suggests, like places they can hide so be sure to have rocks, plants and other decorations they can retreat off too.
When stocking the fish in the tank, keep in mind that if you try and add too many you will get what is called toxic shock syndrome and risk losing your entire tank! Seek out advice if you are not familiar in how many fish per gallon you need in your tank or are unsure about the space requirements of what you plan to purchase. Again, this is where it helps to go to a store that specializes in tropical fish that can give you expert advice.
Saturday, 7 July 2007
7 Foods That Are Deadly To Your Parrots
"7 Foods That Are Deadly To Your Parrots", by Nora Caterino
*************************************************
When parrots were first keep as pets, people thought they only lived a short time. This was in part because most of the soft billed wild birds only live a few years but also because the parrots they kept die within 10 years or so. This was because the diet these parrots were being fed did not supply the necessary nutrients and the birds basically starved to death very, very slowly. Some succumbed to illness but this was in large part due to the fact that they were malnourished and their bodies couldn't fight the disease.
Today we know that many of the large parrots can live to be over 100 years of age and even budgies and cockatiels can live to be 20 or more. This is because we now know what to feed our parrots and what to avoid letting them eat.
There are lots of good things to feed your parrot, but there are a few things that you might offer that can kill your beloved feathered friend. The reasons may differ but the results are the same: death.
Foods You Must NEVER Feed Your Parrot
There are only a few things that can actually kill your parrot as far as human food goes. These are:
• Avocado
• Chocolate
• Alcohol
• Seeds of any fruit
• Raw meat
• Uncooked eggs
• Any food that may have mold or may have spoiled (including seeds)
As you can see, this is a very short list.
Foods You Should Limit
This list is a lot longer and contains people foods that won't kill your parrot quickly. However, over time, these foods will be detrimental to its health. These foods fall into three main categories. Some foods may fall in to several or even all of these categories:
Foods High In Fat
Any food that has a high fat content should be limited. In the wild, parrots eat very little fat; what they do eat is mainly from bugs and other protein sources. Now, this doesn't mean that you parrot pal can't have a taste of these foods occasionally. Think of feeding your parrot as if you were feeding a three year old child. You would let a child have a few potato chips even though they are high in fat and salt, but you would limit the quantity. With a parrot, of course, the portions are much, much smaller. If you want to let your parrot have a bite or two of a single potato chip once in a while, there is nothing wrong with this limited quantity. Just do not let it become a habit that every single day the parrot gets potato chips and don't let the quantity increase over time. Everything in moderation is the practice to be followed for this list – every small amounts if what moderation means here.
Examples of these foods are:
• Potato chips
• Vegetables with lots of butter
• Fried foods
• Cream, whipped or liquid
• Cake icing
• Ice cream
• Fatty meat
• Butter sauces and cream soups that contain a lot of butter
Foods High In Salt
Too much salt isn't good for people or birds. Of course, since parrots are so much smaller, a little bit goes a long way. Some foods can simply be taken out of the food preparation cycle before salt is added to allow the parrot to enjoy a safe serving. If your parrot enjoys cooked veggies and you salt your food, then by all means take some out before adding salt. Crackers can have the salt scraped off before allowing the parrot to have the food. Many foods can be found in unsalted versions that can safely be shared with you parrot. For example, unsalted nuts are fine but eating a lot of salted nuts is not good for your feathered kid.
Some of the foods in this category are:
• Salted potato chips
• Salted corn chips
• Salted nuts
• Salted vegetables or meats
• Many prepared foods such as microwave entrees
• Salted popcorn
• Bacon, ham and other cured meats
Foods High in Sugar
Parrots can become little junk food junkies is allowed. They seem to love sweets and will insist on having a taste. Most foods with sugar are perfectly safe to allow the parrot to have a bite or even two, but limit the quantities to a very small amount and do not allow these foods every day. These are for the rare occasion rather than daily diet.
Examples of these foods include:
• Cakes
• Cookies
• Candy
• Sweetened juices
• Other sweetened drinks
• Sugary cereal
• Ice cream
Everything Else
Everything else that you eat, you can and should share with your parrot. The more different foods your bird eats, the better its health will be, the more vibrant the feather colors and the happier you'll be. However, use some common sense about feeding people food to parrots.
Fruits and vegetables are very good additions to the diet, preferably raw but if you parrot prefers some things cooked, that is better than not eating the food at all. Eggs, cheese, pasta, rice, potatoes (other than potato chips or French fries), pizza, noodles, bits of meat or fish and other people foods are great for you parrot. Limit the amount of meat to very small amounts because in the wild, parrots do not get a lot of meat-type protein. Some parrots LOVE a bone with bits of meat left on it to chew on and will even eat the marrow out of the bone.
Of course, fruits and vegetables are the best for the parrots and for us. But variety is the spice of life and everyone wants variety including your parrot.
*************************************************
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Nora Caterino helps parrot owners from over 14 different countries in taming and teaching parrots to TALK. If you want to learn more about her parrot training videos - to instantly solve annoying behaviour problems like biting, screaming, or feather plucking - then join the 'Elite Parrots Club' and get super coaching from the 'Bird Lady':
https://paydotcom.com/r/4007/g1234ray/1323434/
*************************************************
When parrots were first keep as pets, people thought they only lived a short time. This was in part because most of the soft billed wild birds only live a few years but also because the parrots they kept die within 10 years or so. This was because the diet these parrots were being fed did not supply the necessary nutrients and the birds basically starved to death very, very slowly. Some succumbed to illness but this was in large part due to the fact that they were malnourished and their bodies couldn't fight the disease.
Today we know that many of the large parrots can live to be over 100 years of age and even budgies and cockatiels can live to be 20 or more. This is because we now know what to feed our parrots and what to avoid letting them eat.
There are lots of good things to feed your parrot, but there are a few things that you might offer that can kill your beloved feathered friend. The reasons may differ but the results are the same: death.
Foods You Must NEVER Feed Your Parrot
There are only a few things that can actually kill your parrot as far as human food goes. These are:
• Avocado
• Chocolate
• Alcohol
• Seeds of any fruit
• Raw meat
• Uncooked eggs
• Any food that may have mold or may have spoiled (including seeds)
As you can see, this is a very short list.
Foods You Should Limit
This list is a lot longer and contains people foods that won't kill your parrot quickly. However, over time, these foods will be detrimental to its health. These foods fall into three main categories. Some foods may fall in to several or even all of these categories:
Foods High In Fat
Any food that has a high fat content should be limited. In the wild, parrots eat very little fat; what they do eat is mainly from bugs and other protein sources. Now, this doesn't mean that you parrot pal can't have a taste of these foods occasionally. Think of feeding your parrot as if you were feeding a three year old child. You would let a child have a few potato chips even though they are high in fat and salt, but you would limit the quantity. With a parrot, of course, the portions are much, much smaller. If you want to let your parrot have a bite or two of a single potato chip once in a while, there is nothing wrong with this limited quantity. Just do not let it become a habit that every single day the parrot gets potato chips and don't let the quantity increase over time. Everything in moderation is the practice to be followed for this list – every small amounts if what moderation means here.
Examples of these foods are:
• Potato chips
• Vegetables with lots of butter
• Fried foods
• Cream, whipped or liquid
• Cake icing
• Ice cream
• Fatty meat
• Butter sauces and cream soups that contain a lot of butter
Foods High In Salt
Too much salt isn't good for people or birds. Of course, since parrots are so much smaller, a little bit goes a long way. Some foods can simply be taken out of the food preparation cycle before salt is added to allow the parrot to enjoy a safe serving. If your parrot enjoys cooked veggies and you salt your food, then by all means take some out before adding salt. Crackers can have the salt scraped off before allowing the parrot to have the food. Many foods can be found in unsalted versions that can safely be shared with you parrot. For example, unsalted nuts are fine but eating a lot of salted nuts is not good for your feathered kid.
Some of the foods in this category are:
• Salted potato chips
• Salted corn chips
• Salted nuts
• Salted vegetables or meats
• Many prepared foods such as microwave entrees
• Salted popcorn
• Bacon, ham and other cured meats
Foods High in Sugar
Parrots can become little junk food junkies is allowed. They seem to love sweets and will insist on having a taste. Most foods with sugar are perfectly safe to allow the parrot to have a bite or even two, but limit the quantities to a very small amount and do not allow these foods every day. These are for the rare occasion rather than daily diet.
Examples of these foods include:
• Cakes
• Cookies
• Candy
• Sweetened juices
• Other sweetened drinks
• Sugary cereal
• Ice cream
Everything Else
Everything else that you eat, you can and should share with your parrot. The more different foods your bird eats, the better its health will be, the more vibrant the feather colors and the happier you'll be. However, use some common sense about feeding people food to parrots.
Fruits and vegetables are very good additions to the diet, preferably raw but if you parrot prefers some things cooked, that is better than not eating the food at all. Eggs, cheese, pasta, rice, potatoes (other than potato chips or French fries), pizza, noodles, bits of meat or fish and other people foods are great for you parrot. Limit the amount of meat to very small amounts because in the wild, parrots do not get a lot of meat-type protein. Some parrots LOVE a bone with bits of meat left on it to chew on and will even eat the marrow out of the bone.
Of course, fruits and vegetables are the best for the parrots and for us. But variety is the spice of life and everyone wants variety including your parrot.
*************************************************
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Nora Caterino helps parrot owners from over 14 different countries in taming and teaching parrots to TALK. If you want to learn more about her parrot training videos - to instantly solve annoying behaviour problems like biting, screaming, or feather plucking - then join the 'Elite Parrots Club' and get super coaching from the 'Bird Lady':
https://paydotcom.com/r/4007/g1234ray/1323434/
Loving your pet Dog
4 Ways In Which You Can Show Your Dog How Much You Love Him
By Graham Wardle
Do you have at least one framed photo of your dog somewhere in your house... or maybe in your wallet? Is your dog pretty darn close to being the very center of your universe? Do you love spoiling him, responds to his every whimper and cry, and spend hundreds of dollars on gourmet treats? To say that dogs are man's best friend is anything but a cliché. You might be the most miserable person in the world without a friend to your name... but your dog will treat you like royalty every time you walk through the door. So how do you repay that unconditional love and devotion? There are hundreds of different ways!
1. Spoil him rotten.
A lot of people spend a lot of money at chic pet boutiques, dressing their dogs in hundred-dollar sweaters and paying for meticulous pedicures. They buy diamond-studded collars and give their dogs rooms all to themselves. You probably don’t have the budget for things like that, right? You can still spoil your dog with simple, everyday things that cost you the absolute minimum. Next time your pooch needs a bath; focus on giving him a massage while you’re working the shampoo into his coat. Take him out for a drive once each week. Or you can…
2. Making him a special treat from your our kitchen! Often you can find recipes that can be a great treat for him and you! That is a double plus.
You know that food needs to be both delicious and nutritious to make sure he has as long and happy a life as possible. Why not try making some homemade treats and dog food that are absolutely packed with all of the vitamins and nutrients he needs? Bake him a delicious, healthy doggie cake for his next birthday, or share a few cookies with him, but remember your dog cannot have human food; chocolate from your chocolate chip cookie could make him sick.
3. Prepare for the worst.
If you know exactly what to do in a tough situation or an emergency, you infinitely increase the chances that your dog will be around for a long time to come. Do you know what to do when he’s choking? You should lay your dog on his side and place one hand on his back and the other on his stomach just behind his rib cage. Using the stomach hand, push in and toward the throat twice, but without too much force. If you can see a foreign object, sweep your fingers through his mouth to remove it. If he’s still choking, place your mouth over his nose and exhale until his chest rises. Repeat once, and then thrust two more times. Continue until he coughs out the obstruction. Now consider what would happen if he started to choke and you had no clue what to do, then ended up spending 10 minutes calling vets and driving him there. Making sure you’re prepared to care for his health and wellbeing is a great way to show him how much you love him.
4. Speak his language.
Unless you believe in pet psychics, there’s really no way for you to read your pooch’s mind and figure out exactly what she’s thinking. The good news is that, like many dog owners, the problems you’re having can probably be traced to one simple thing: you’re trying to communicate with your dog from a human standpoint, and your dog isn’t a human. Rather than saying “no,” a word that doesn’t really mean anything to a dog, try growling in a deep, throaty voice the next time you’re unhappy with something he’s done. He’ll get the message immediately and you won’t have to go through a big, drawn-out battle of wills. He’ll appreciate you meeting him halfway!
These are just a few of the ways in which you can show your dog how much he means to you, and I’d love to share hundreds more with you. That’s why I’ve assembled the dognatural.com Mega pack, a collection of my hottest dog care titles. From 101 Ways to Spoil Your Dog for Under $10 and Secrets to a Healthy and Happy Pooch to 180 Gourmet Dog Recipes and Instinct vs. Man, you’ll be amazed at all of the information, tips, and ideas you never even imagined existed. Why not give it a try? Think about it – it’s just one more way to show your pooch how much you love him.
Graham Wardle - If you a looking for everything a dog lover needs than you can't go past the "Dog Lover's Essentials Mega Pack" We highly recommend it:
https://paydotcom.com/r/8147/g1234ray/1323380/
By Graham Wardle
Do you have at least one framed photo of your dog somewhere in your house... or maybe in your wallet? Is your dog pretty darn close to being the very center of your universe? Do you love spoiling him, responds to his every whimper and cry, and spend hundreds of dollars on gourmet treats? To say that dogs are man's best friend is anything but a cliché. You might be the most miserable person in the world without a friend to your name... but your dog will treat you like royalty every time you walk through the door. So how do you repay that unconditional love and devotion? There are hundreds of different ways!
1. Spoil him rotten.
A lot of people spend a lot of money at chic pet boutiques, dressing their dogs in hundred-dollar sweaters and paying for meticulous pedicures. They buy diamond-studded collars and give their dogs rooms all to themselves. You probably don’t have the budget for things like that, right? You can still spoil your dog with simple, everyday things that cost you the absolute minimum. Next time your pooch needs a bath; focus on giving him a massage while you’re working the shampoo into his coat. Take him out for a drive once each week. Or you can…
2. Making him a special treat from your our kitchen! Often you can find recipes that can be a great treat for him and you! That is a double plus.
You know that food needs to be both delicious and nutritious to make sure he has as long and happy a life as possible. Why not try making some homemade treats and dog food that are absolutely packed with all of the vitamins and nutrients he needs? Bake him a delicious, healthy doggie cake for his next birthday, or share a few cookies with him, but remember your dog cannot have human food; chocolate from your chocolate chip cookie could make him sick.
3. Prepare for the worst.
If you know exactly what to do in a tough situation or an emergency, you infinitely increase the chances that your dog will be around for a long time to come. Do you know what to do when he’s choking? You should lay your dog on his side and place one hand on his back and the other on his stomach just behind his rib cage. Using the stomach hand, push in and toward the throat twice, but without too much force. If you can see a foreign object, sweep your fingers through his mouth to remove it. If he’s still choking, place your mouth over his nose and exhale until his chest rises. Repeat once, and then thrust two more times. Continue until he coughs out the obstruction. Now consider what would happen if he started to choke and you had no clue what to do, then ended up spending 10 minutes calling vets and driving him there. Making sure you’re prepared to care for his health and wellbeing is a great way to show him how much you love him.
4. Speak his language.
Unless you believe in pet psychics, there’s really no way for you to read your pooch’s mind and figure out exactly what she’s thinking. The good news is that, like many dog owners, the problems you’re having can probably be traced to one simple thing: you’re trying to communicate with your dog from a human standpoint, and your dog isn’t a human. Rather than saying “no,” a word that doesn’t really mean anything to a dog, try growling in a deep, throaty voice the next time you’re unhappy with something he’s done. He’ll get the message immediately and you won’t have to go through a big, drawn-out battle of wills. He’ll appreciate you meeting him halfway!
These are just a few of the ways in which you can show your dog how much he means to you, and I’d love to share hundreds more with you. That’s why I’ve assembled the dognatural.com Mega pack, a collection of my hottest dog care titles. From 101 Ways to Spoil Your Dog for Under $10 and Secrets to a Healthy and Happy Pooch to 180 Gourmet Dog Recipes and Instinct vs. Man, you’ll be amazed at all of the information, tips, and ideas you never even imagined existed. Why not give it a try? Think about it – it’s just one more way to show your pooch how much you love him.
Graham Wardle - If you a looking for everything a dog lover needs than you can't go past the "Dog Lover's Essentials Mega Pack" We highly recommend it:
https://paydotcom.com/r/8147/g1234ray/1323380/
Exotic Pets
Exotic Pets
There are a large number of species that can be termed exotic pets, including mammals, birds, reptiles, fish and invertebrates. The availability of many unusual species has led to more people considering keeping these animals in their homes, and tarantulas, iguanas, salamanders and snakes are all becoming more and more popular as pets. But before you buy that cute-looking frog or that furry spider, it is important that you consider the following points:
(Please note, many of the points below apply to all pets, not just exotic animals)
Many species are illegal in the UK, often due to the danger they may pose to other people or because of the animal's conservation status in the wild. Find out about any laws pertaining to your chosen species, and whether or not you will need a permit.
Find out everything there is to know about the species you are thinking of. Buy a good care guide, talk to your vet, surf the net and contact other people who have the same pet to find out the pros and cons.
How much space will your pet require or will it need the run of your house? If it needs regular exercise, make sure you can put aside enough time each day.
How long will your pet live? Some species of reptile may outlive you, so are you prepared to spend the whole of your life looking after it?
Can you handle your pet? Tarantulas may bite if they feel threatened and release hairs that can irritate your skin and eyes. Some amphibians can also be difficult to handle due to their coating of protective slime.
It may be difficult to find a vet who has experience with exotic pets. Find out if there is one local to you. Children and exotic pets rarely mix.
Some species are potentially dangerous to people and other animals. If you have other pets, be sure that they will get on with an exotic species.
Exotic pets have specific dietary requirements, and may need to be fed with foods that you feel uncomfortable handling, such as frozen mice or live locusts.
Who will look after your pet if you go on holiday? It may not be as easy to find a willing pet-sitter for a tarantula as it would be for a cute little kitten.
Some species carry diseases. Reptiles, for example, can harbour salmonella.
Find out the maximum size that the species you are considering can grow to. Some pythons can grow to over 6ft.
The cost of accommodation, food and vet bills is likely to exceed the initial price of the pet, so think carefully about whether you are prepared for the expense.
Will your pet need company? Some species become stressed if kept alone, whereas others will prefer to be solitary.
Links:
International Herpetological Society
www.international-herp-society.co.uk
British Chelonia Group
www.britishcheloniagroup.org.uk
British Tarantula Society
www.thebts.co.uk
from BBC.co.uk science and nature
Thursday, 5 July 2007
Birds as Pets
Birds as Pets
More and more people are having birds as their pets. Parrots, Macaws and Parakeets are among the most popular and can become wonderful pets if you pick the one that fits your lifestyle. Birds have become popular as pets because of their brainpower and sociability plus colorful physical appearance that make them a great pet to take care for. The basic things to think about in taking care of a pet bird are the bird’s diet, hygiene, housing and training. Taking care of pet bird requires you learn a few general health facts so be sure to do plenty of research on the type of bird you want before considering having a pet bird.
Birds, like us humans, also need a well balance diet to be able to cope with life’s physical challenges. There are plenty of seeds and ready-mixed seeds available, but be sure to give your bird foods with high nutritional value such as vitamins and minerals. You may also feed them with fresh vegetables and fruits every now and then and don’t forget to keep their water supply as fresh as possible. Moreover, remember to keep your pet bird’s feeder and water dispenser clean by washing them with water and soap and make sure to rinse them thoroughly. Aside from bird’s diet it is also important to be particular of bird’s hygiene.
Simplepetcare
More and more people are having birds as their pets. Parrots, Macaws and Parakeets are among the most popular and can become wonderful pets if you pick the one that fits your lifestyle. Birds have become popular as pets because of their brainpower and sociability plus colorful physical appearance that make them a great pet to take care for. The basic things to think about in taking care of a pet bird are the bird’s diet, hygiene, housing and training. Taking care of pet bird requires you learn a few general health facts so be sure to do plenty of research on the type of bird you want before considering having a pet bird.
Birds, like us humans, also need a well balance diet to be able to cope with life’s physical challenges. There are plenty of seeds and ready-mixed seeds available, but be sure to give your bird foods with high nutritional value such as vitamins and minerals. You may also feed them with fresh vegetables and fruits every now and then and don’t forget to keep their water supply as fresh as possible. Moreover, remember to keep your pet bird’s feeder and water dispenser clean by washing them with water and soap and make sure to rinse them thoroughly. Aside from bird’s diet it is also important to be particular of bird’s hygiene.
Simplepetcare
Sunday, 1 July 2007
Dog Care: Top 10 Ways To Keep Your Dog Forever Young
Dog Care: Top 10 Ways To Keep Your Dog Forever Young
By Debra Primovic
There is a large disparity between the life spans of dogs and humans. After having loved a pet and lost one, it seems unfair. The best we can do is to keep our friends as healthy as possible and "forever young." Here are My Top 10 Ways to Keep Your Dog Forever Young:
1. Know When Your Pet is "Old." The time when your dog is considered a "senior" depends largely on his or her breed and size. According to Dr. Johnny Hoskins in Geriatrics and Gerontology of the Dog and Cat, small breed dogs (less than 20 pounds) are in their senior years around nine to 13 years of age. Medium sized dogs (21 to 50 pounds) around nine to 11. 5 years; large breed dogs (51 to 90 pounds) around 7.5 to 10.5 years and giant dogs (more than 90 pounds) between six and nine years. In general, smaller breed dogs live longer.
2. Wellness Exams. When your pet is considered a senior, you should bring your dog for regular geriatric examinations. These examinations help identify early diseases or problems in older pets. Exams should include a history and physical examination with evaluation of the teeth, listening to the heart and lungs (by stethoscope), abdominal palpation (feeling of the abdomen) and inspection of your dog's ear and eyes. Weight monitoring, parasite check (fecal examination) and blood work and urine tests are also often recommended. Other tests may be indicated depending on your pet's symptoms.
3. Watch for Illness. Careful observation at home is extremely important. By nature of survival, dogs are very good at hiding their illness until it is too late. Take time to examine your pet. Feel him or her for masses and indications of weight loss or loss of musculature. Things to watch for include changes in water consumption or patterns of urination, poor appetite, weight loss or gain, coughing or difficulty breathing, changes in activity level, vomiting, diarrhea and skin lumps or masses. If you have questions or concerns about your pet, play it safe and have him or her evaluated by your veterinarian. Early diagnosis is vital to the success of treatment.
4. Weight Control. Obese dogs have shorter life spans than non-obese dogs. Obesity may lead to a number of health problems. Excess weight puts excess stress on your dog's heart. When the heart doesn't function properly, other organs may suffer including the brain, lungs, liver and kidneys. Over time, these problems may become severe enough to cause life-threatening conditions.
5. Keep Close Tabs. In general, "outdoor" free roaming dogs have shorter lives than indoor animals. Infectious diseases, poisonings and trauma are common killers. Senior dogs have decreased reflexes and may not see and hear as well as they used to. This makes them vulnerable to outside dangers such as predators or cars. Keep dogs on leashes or in fenced-in yards.
6. Monitor Your Environment. Keep poisons up and out of your dog's reach. Common toxins include antifreeze, rat poison and slug bait. Keep trash out of reach. Don't count on your pet to "know better." It doesn't take a large amount of a dangerous substance to make your dog seriously ill.
7. Nutrition. Feed your pet a premium high quality diet supplements such as Hill's Science Diet®, Iams® or Eukanuba®. Feed low fat and high fiber foods since high fat and/or low fiber foods are thought to decrease life expectancy. Minimize treats and make them nutritious and low in calories. Air-popped popcorn is often a good treat for dogs. With your veterinarian, you should discuss the merits of a diet formulation for your senior dog.
8. Exercise. Exercise helps to maintain a healthy body weight, strengthens joints and muscles and provides mental stimulation for your dog.
9. Spay and Neuter. Spayed and neutered dogs tend to have fewer health problems. Spaying is the removal of the ovaries and uterus. Without these organs, ovarian cysts, uterine infections and cancer of the reproductive tract are no longer a concern. Studies have shown that dogs spayed before puberty have a significantly lower chance of developing breast cancer than unspayed dogs, or dogs spayed later in life. Health problems that can be associated with birthing are also eliminated with spaying. Neutering is the removal of the testicles. Without these organs, testicular cancer is no longer a concern and the risk of prostate problems is reduced. In addition, the desire to "wander" is diminished, which lowers the chance of your dog running away and suffering trauma, such as being hit by a car.
10. Mental Stimulation. Provide your pet with toys, games and quality time. Most pets are never too old to play. Encourage mental stimulation. It is never too late to teach old dogs new tricks. Follow these top 10 tips, and you'll keep your dog forever young.
About the Author
With her PetPlace.com columns, Dog safety and health expert, Dr. Debra Primovic has helped thousands of dog owners keep their dogs living longer and stronger.For more information, check out www.petplace.com for 8,000+ veterinarian approved articles guaranteed to keep you from compromising the care of your dog.
Article Source: http://articles.simplysearch4it.com/author-articles/11576/1.html
By Debra Primovic
There is a large disparity between the life spans of dogs and humans. After having loved a pet and lost one, it seems unfair. The best we can do is to keep our friends as healthy as possible and "forever young." Here are My Top 10 Ways to Keep Your Dog Forever Young:
1. Know When Your Pet is "Old." The time when your dog is considered a "senior" depends largely on his or her breed and size. According to Dr. Johnny Hoskins in Geriatrics and Gerontology of the Dog and Cat, small breed dogs (less than 20 pounds) are in their senior years around nine to 13 years of age. Medium sized dogs (21 to 50 pounds) around nine to 11. 5 years; large breed dogs (51 to 90 pounds) around 7.5 to 10.5 years and giant dogs (more than 90 pounds) between six and nine years. In general, smaller breed dogs live longer.
2. Wellness Exams. When your pet is considered a senior, you should bring your dog for regular geriatric examinations. These examinations help identify early diseases or problems in older pets. Exams should include a history and physical examination with evaluation of the teeth, listening to the heart and lungs (by stethoscope), abdominal palpation (feeling of the abdomen) and inspection of your dog's ear and eyes. Weight monitoring, parasite check (fecal examination) and blood work and urine tests are also often recommended. Other tests may be indicated depending on your pet's symptoms.
3. Watch for Illness. Careful observation at home is extremely important. By nature of survival, dogs are very good at hiding their illness until it is too late. Take time to examine your pet. Feel him or her for masses and indications of weight loss or loss of musculature. Things to watch for include changes in water consumption or patterns of urination, poor appetite, weight loss or gain, coughing or difficulty breathing, changes in activity level, vomiting, diarrhea and skin lumps or masses. If you have questions or concerns about your pet, play it safe and have him or her evaluated by your veterinarian. Early diagnosis is vital to the success of treatment.
4. Weight Control. Obese dogs have shorter life spans than non-obese dogs. Obesity may lead to a number of health problems. Excess weight puts excess stress on your dog's heart. When the heart doesn't function properly, other organs may suffer including the brain, lungs, liver and kidneys. Over time, these problems may become severe enough to cause life-threatening conditions.
5. Keep Close Tabs. In general, "outdoor" free roaming dogs have shorter lives than indoor animals. Infectious diseases, poisonings and trauma are common killers. Senior dogs have decreased reflexes and may not see and hear as well as they used to. This makes them vulnerable to outside dangers such as predators or cars. Keep dogs on leashes or in fenced-in yards.
6. Monitor Your Environment. Keep poisons up and out of your dog's reach. Common toxins include antifreeze, rat poison and slug bait. Keep trash out of reach. Don't count on your pet to "know better." It doesn't take a large amount of a dangerous substance to make your dog seriously ill.
7. Nutrition. Feed your pet a premium high quality diet supplements such as Hill's Science Diet®, Iams® or Eukanuba®. Feed low fat and high fiber foods since high fat and/or low fiber foods are thought to decrease life expectancy. Minimize treats and make them nutritious and low in calories. Air-popped popcorn is often a good treat for dogs. With your veterinarian, you should discuss the merits of a diet formulation for your senior dog.
8. Exercise. Exercise helps to maintain a healthy body weight, strengthens joints and muscles and provides mental stimulation for your dog.
9. Spay and Neuter. Spayed and neutered dogs tend to have fewer health problems. Spaying is the removal of the ovaries and uterus. Without these organs, ovarian cysts, uterine infections and cancer of the reproductive tract are no longer a concern. Studies have shown that dogs spayed before puberty have a significantly lower chance of developing breast cancer than unspayed dogs, or dogs spayed later in life. Health problems that can be associated with birthing are also eliminated with spaying. Neutering is the removal of the testicles. Without these organs, testicular cancer is no longer a concern and the risk of prostate problems is reduced. In addition, the desire to "wander" is diminished, which lowers the chance of your dog running away and suffering trauma, such as being hit by a car.
10. Mental Stimulation. Provide your pet with toys, games and quality time. Most pets are never too old to play. Encourage mental stimulation. It is never too late to teach old dogs new tricks. Follow these top 10 tips, and you'll keep your dog forever young.
About the Author
With her PetPlace.com columns, Dog safety and health expert, Dr. Debra Primovic has helped thousands of dog owners keep their dogs living longer and stronger.For more information, check out www.petplace.com for 8,000+ veterinarian approved articles guaranteed to keep you from compromising the care of your dog.
Article Source: http://articles.simplysearch4it.com/author-articles/11576/1.html
Thursday, 28 June 2007
Protect your pets during hot weather
Protect your pets during hot weather
The Seattle Animal Shelter reminds pet owners to use common sense and good judgment during the heat of summer.
Don't leave your pet in your car. On hot days, cars left in direct sunlight can reach temperatures of 130 degrees. Even dogs left in cars with the windows cracked and in the shade risk brain damage or death on hot days.
Other tips from the animal shelter: Never leave animals chained or penned in direct sunlight; provide shady areas where animals can retreat, and provide cool water; avoid overexerting animals in hot weather; and if animals are left indoors where there is no air conditioning, open the windows, keep a fan running and provide plenty of water.
for everything for dogs...
PUPPYLUVSME
The Seattle Animal Shelter reminds pet owners to use common sense and good judgment during the heat of summer.
Don't leave your pet in your car. On hot days, cars left in direct sunlight can reach temperatures of 130 degrees. Even dogs left in cars with the windows cracked and in the shade risk brain damage or death on hot days.
Other tips from the animal shelter: Never leave animals chained or penned in direct sunlight; provide shady areas where animals can retreat, and provide cool water; avoid overexerting animals in hot weather; and if animals are left indoors where there is no air conditioning, open the windows, keep a fan running and provide plenty of water.
for everything for dogs...
PUPPYLUVSME
Dumped kittens drown
Dumped kittens drown in dustbin
Two kittens drowned when they were dumped in a bin which filled up with rainwater in Shropshire.
Three more kittens were rescued after being found in the bin by children in the playground of Idsall Secondary School, Shifnal.
The kittens, thought to be four or five weeks old, were taken to a veterinary surgery for emergency surgery and are now recovering at an RSPCA centre.
The RSPCA has appealed for information about Monday's incident.
Student vet nurse Rachel Owen said the kittens were "thin, wet, cold, hungry and very frightened."
RSPCA Inspector Jackie Hickman said: "These kittens have endured such a traumatic experience.
"They would have struggled to survive as the water level rose higher and higher - and tragically the weaker kittens lost the fight.
"I am absolutely appalled by what has happened to these poor kittens. Anyone tempted to do the same thing should remember that it is against the law to abandon an animal and cause it to suffer."
She added: "I would ask people to think of anyone locally who had a litter of kittens or a pregnant cat.
"These kittens are not feral animals, they are used to being in a home environment, so who has tossed them out of their home causing them immense stress and suffering?"
from the BBC
Two kittens drowned when they were dumped in a bin which filled up with rainwater in Shropshire.
Three more kittens were rescued after being found in the bin by children in the playground of Idsall Secondary School, Shifnal.
The kittens, thought to be four or five weeks old, were taken to a veterinary surgery for emergency surgery and are now recovering at an RSPCA centre.
The RSPCA has appealed for information about Monday's incident.
Student vet nurse Rachel Owen said the kittens were "thin, wet, cold, hungry and very frightened."
RSPCA Inspector Jackie Hickman said: "These kittens have endured such a traumatic experience.
"They would have struggled to survive as the water level rose higher and higher - and tragically the weaker kittens lost the fight.
"I am absolutely appalled by what has happened to these poor kittens. Anyone tempted to do the same thing should remember that it is against the law to abandon an animal and cause it to suffer."
She added: "I would ask people to think of anyone locally who had a litter of kittens or a pregnant cat.
"These kittens are not feral animals, they are used to being in a home environment, so who has tossed them out of their home causing them immense stress and suffering?"
from the BBC
Wednesday, 27 June 2007
Unsafe Vet??
A man who posed as a vet and dosed dogs with illegal drugs has been told he could face two years in jail.
Leonard French, 69, is said to have made more than £170,000 from dog owners, companies and hunts.
French, of Tattershall Bridge, Lincs, admitted 20 charges involving importing and selling drugs not registered for use in the UK.
He will go before Lincoln Crown Court after Grantham magistrates said their sentencing powers were insufficient.
Asset threat
The court heard French's £400,000 home, where he kept up to 120 lurcher dogs, was raided by police and officers from the Department of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) in October 2004.
Documents found at the house showed he was importing drugs from companies in Russia, France and the US for sale to British customers.
An undercover investigation by a BBC reporter more than a year after the first raid showed French still offering drugs for sale.
He even pretended to be a vet and was caught on camera illegally vaccinating a dog with his own medicine.
French also faces an application to strip £170,000 of his assets and also more than £50,000 in costs.
from the BBC
Leonard French, 69, is said to have made more than £170,000 from dog owners, companies and hunts.
French, of Tattershall Bridge, Lincs, admitted 20 charges involving importing and selling drugs not registered for use in the UK.
He will go before Lincoln Crown Court after Grantham magistrates said their sentencing powers were insufficient.
Asset threat
The court heard French's £400,000 home, where he kept up to 120 lurcher dogs, was raided by police and officers from the Department of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) in October 2004.
Documents found at the house showed he was importing drugs from companies in Russia, France and the US for sale to British customers.
An undercover investigation by a BBC reporter more than a year after the first raid showed French still offering drugs for sale.
He even pretended to be a vet and was caught on camera illegally vaccinating a dog with his own medicine.
French also faces an application to strip £170,000 of his assets and also more than £50,000 in costs.
from the BBC
Cat around the bend!!
Soggy moggy rescued from toilet
A curious kitten has been rescued by firefighters from a toilet outflow after negotiating the U-bend.
It appears that eight-week-old Mr Bingley jumped into the toilet and attempted to explore what lay beyond.
The kitten's owners, from Cotham, Bristol, were unable to rescue the animal, so called the fire brigade.
Firefighters managed to free it unharmed after removing the toilet bowl. " I guess it's used one of its nine lives," a spokeswoman said.
"We received a call at 11.18pm last night that an eight-week old kitten had got trapped inside a toilet," she added.
"Somehow it had managed to get past the U-bend. Its owners couldn't get it out.
"Firefighters removed the toilet and handed the cat back to its grateful owners."
A curious kitten has been rescued by firefighters from a toilet outflow after negotiating the U-bend.
It appears that eight-week-old Mr Bingley jumped into the toilet and attempted to explore what lay beyond.
The kitten's owners, from Cotham, Bristol, were unable to rescue the animal, so called the fire brigade.
Firefighters managed to free it unharmed after removing the toilet bowl. " I guess it's used one of its nine lives," a spokeswoman said.
"We received a call at 11.18pm last night that an eight-week old kitten had got trapped inside a toilet," she added.
"Somehow it had managed to get past the U-bend. Its owners couldn't get it out.
"Firefighters removed the toilet and handed the cat back to its grateful owners."
Monday, 25 June 2007
Sunday, 24 June 2007
Bird Flu in Germany
The deadly strain of the bird flu virus has resurfaced in Germany in the bodies of at least three dead birds found in the state of Bavaria, Germany's first confirmed cases this year, officials said on Sunday.
The corpses of several more birds found in the southern state are being analysed to see if they also contain the deadliest strain of the H5N1 virus, a spokeswoman for the Bavarian city of Nuremberg said.
The country's top veterinary laboratory, the Friedrich Loeffler Institute, confirmed that three wild birds -- two swans and a goose -- found in two lakes near Nuremberg had tested positive for the worst strain of the H5N1 virus.
"Over the next few days the city of Nuremberg will be supported by a federal epidemiological team which will scientifically investigate the causes and background of the infection cases," the city of Nuremberg said in a statement.
It said that poultry farmers in the region were required to confine all poultry birds to closed stalls. It added that as of Saturday a 21-day ban had been imposed on bringing poultry birds or products in or out of the area, now a quarantine zone.
City officials also warned cat and dog owners not to allow their pets to roam freely in the quarantine zone.
Germany quickly passed this information on to the European Commission.
"Highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 was detected in more than 700 wild birds in the EU in 2006," the Commission said in a statement. It added that the infected swans in Bavaria were the European Union's first cases reported in wild birds in 2007.
DEAD BIRDS
Five other dead birds found near Nuremberg tested positive for the H5N1 virus but it remains unclear whether they have the deadly Asian strain, German officials said.
In addition to the dead swans and goose, the body of at least one wild duck has been confirmed to have some form of the H5N1 virus, Nuremberg city said.
The Friedrich Loeffler Institute is carrying out tests on the animals to determine which H5N1 strain they carried.
Last year, some 13 European Union member states had confirmed cases of bird flu -- Germany, Austria, Denmark, Italy, Greece, Britain, the Czech Republic, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia, Sweden, France and Hungary.
Czech veterinarians started culling several thousand turkeys on a farm last week after tests confirmed the country's first outbreak of a deadly form of bird flu in poultry.
Bird flu has been spreading across southeast Asia, killing two people in Vietnam this month, the first deaths there since 2005.
Globally, the H5N1 virus has killed nearly 200 people out of over 300 known cases, according to the World Health Organisation. None of the victims were from Europe.
Hundreds of millions of birds have died or been slaughtered.
The corpses of several more birds found in the southern state are being analysed to see if they also contain the deadliest strain of the H5N1 virus, a spokeswoman for the Bavarian city of Nuremberg said.
The country's top veterinary laboratory, the Friedrich Loeffler Institute, confirmed that three wild birds -- two swans and a goose -- found in two lakes near Nuremberg had tested positive for the worst strain of the H5N1 virus.
"Over the next few days the city of Nuremberg will be supported by a federal epidemiological team which will scientifically investigate the causes and background of the infection cases," the city of Nuremberg said in a statement.
It said that poultry farmers in the region were required to confine all poultry birds to closed stalls. It added that as of Saturday a 21-day ban had been imposed on bringing poultry birds or products in or out of the area, now a quarantine zone.
City officials also warned cat and dog owners not to allow their pets to roam freely in the quarantine zone.
Germany quickly passed this information on to the European Commission.
"Highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 was detected in more than 700 wild birds in the EU in 2006," the Commission said in a statement. It added that the infected swans in Bavaria were the European Union's first cases reported in wild birds in 2007.
DEAD BIRDS
Five other dead birds found near Nuremberg tested positive for the H5N1 virus but it remains unclear whether they have the deadly Asian strain, German officials said.
In addition to the dead swans and goose, the body of at least one wild duck has been confirmed to have some form of the H5N1 virus, Nuremberg city said.
The Friedrich Loeffler Institute is carrying out tests on the animals to determine which H5N1 strain they carried.
Last year, some 13 European Union member states had confirmed cases of bird flu -- Germany, Austria, Denmark, Italy, Greece, Britain, the Czech Republic, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia, Sweden, France and Hungary.
Czech veterinarians started culling several thousand turkeys on a farm last week after tests confirmed the country's first outbreak of a deadly form of bird flu in poultry.
Bird flu has been spreading across southeast Asia, killing two people in Vietnam this month, the first deaths there since 2005.
Globally, the H5N1 virus has killed nearly 200 people out of over 300 known cases, according to the World Health Organisation. None of the victims were from Europe.
Hundreds of millions of birds have died or been slaughtered.
First Aid for Pets
The Polk County chapter of the American Red Cross will offer a pet first-aid class next month.
The chapter will offer the hands-on training in simple emergency care procedures for cats and dogs July 14. The six-hour course will begin at 9 a.m. at 147 Avenue A NW, Winter Haven.
The $30 course fee includes a 100-page book that features more than 130 illustrations and offers step-by-step directions for a aid such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation and rescue breathing.
from Orlando Sentinel Newspaper
The chapter will offer the hands-on training in simple emergency care procedures for cats and dogs July 14. The six-hour course will begin at 9 a.m. at 147 Avenue A NW, Winter Haven.
The $30 course fee includes a 100-page book that features more than 130 illustrations and offers step-by-step directions for a aid such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation and rescue breathing.
from Orlando Sentinel Newspaper
Friday, 22 June 2007
Children and pets
Kid Proofing Your Pets
Before you introduce your children to a pet, you have to make sure that both your children and the pet in question are ready for the encounter. In this regard, it is important that your children properly are trained to handle and to interact with the pet. In addition, it is equally important that your pet be trained to appropriately interact with your children.
By making certain that both your children and your pet are prepared for each other, you will be able to ensure that they enjoy a mutually healthy and enjoyable relationship. There are some specific steps that you need to take in regard to kid proofing your pets, in regard to making absolutely certain your pet is ready to begin a healthy relationship with your children. By appreciating some of these steps, you will be in a far better position to appropriate integrate your pet with your children
Basic Training and Your Pet
The first step that you have to take when it comes to kid proofing your pet is making sure that your pet has received all of his basic training. You want to have a pet that already has mastered the basic parameters of how it is to behave before it does have any actual contact with a youngster.
You might want to consider having a professional pet trainer deal with your companion animal. In this regard, you will have a better chance of having a pet that will be most likely to get along smoothly with children in a home. Professionals understand some special techniques that can be helpful in training a pet in anticipation of ultimate interaction with children.
Transitional Introduction
When it comes to your pet and your children having actual contact, you will want to make sure that you employ a transitional process. You simply do not want to drop the pet into a room in which your children are located.
You will want to have your children and your pet spend short amounts of supervised time together in the beginning. The two key elements are short amounts of time and supervision.
You will be able to observe how your children and the pet are bonding and getting along. Through these observations you will be able to gauge how far you should go in accelerating the process.
You need to keep in mind that you should never leave very young children with a pet unattended. It simply is not safe for either the child or the pet. And, of course, you want your children and your pet to be as safe as possible.
Kid Proofing Your Pet and Your Vet
Your vet will be a solid resource when it comes to kid proofing your pet and preparing your pet to better interact with the younger members of your family. You should consult with your vet and get advice from him or her about any suggestions that your vet might have in regard to helping ensure that your children and your new pet best come together.
Different Pets, Different Breeds
As a final thought, you do need to understand that different types of pets and different breeds of animals get along better with children. Therefore, as you go about selecting a particular pet to be added to your own home, you will want to seriously consider which animals have a better track record with children in the age categories of your own. By doing so, you will significantly enhance the chances that your children and your pet will have a healthy, safe and enjoyable relationship today and well into the future.
------------------------
Your satisfaction with your pet portrait paintings is guaranteed in http://www.portraitkingdom.com/ Tracy Hargraves along with other artists who create pet portraits shares with you the advantages of keeping pictures of your pets and turning them into oil portrait painting.
Before you introduce your children to a pet, you have to make sure that both your children and the pet in question are ready for the encounter. In this regard, it is important that your children properly are trained to handle and to interact with the pet. In addition, it is equally important that your pet be trained to appropriately interact with your children.
By making certain that both your children and your pet are prepared for each other, you will be able to ensure that they enjoy a mutually healthy and enjoyable relationship. There are some specific steps that you need to take in regard to kid proofing your pets, in regard to making absolutely certain your pet is ready to begin a healthy relationship with your children. By appreciating some of these steps, you will be in a far better position to appropriate integrate your pet with your children
Basic Training and Your Pet
The first step that you have to take when it comes to kid proofing your pet is making sure that your pet has received all of his basic training. You want to have a pet that already has mastered the basic parameters of how it is to behave before it does have any actual contact with a youngster.
You might want to consider having a professional pet trainer deal with your companion animal. In this regard, you will have a better chance of having a pet that will be most likely to get along smoothly with children in a home. Professionals understand some special techniques that can be helpful in training a pet in anticipation of ultimate interaction with children.
Transitional Introduction
When it comes to your pet and your children having actual contact, you will want to make sure that you employ a transitional process. You simply do not want to drop the pet into a room in which your children are located.
You will want to have your children and your pet spend short amounts of supervised time together in the beginning. The two key elements are short amounts of time and supervision.
You will be able to observe how your children and the pet are bonding and getting along. Through these observations you will be able to gauge how far you should go in accelerating the process.
You need to keep in mind that you should never leave very young children with a pet unattended. It simply is not safe for either the child or the pet. And, of course, you want your children and your pet to be as safe as possible.
Kid Proofing Your Pet and Your Vet
Your vet will be a solid resource when it comes to kid proofing your pet and preparing your pet to better interact with the younger members of your family. You should consult with your vet and get advice from him or her about any suggestions that your vet might have in regard to helping ensure that your children and your new pet best come together.
Different Pets, Different Breeds
As a final thought, you do need to understand that different types of pets and different breeds of animals get along better with children. Therefore, as you go about selecting a particular pet to be added to your own home, you will want to seriously consider which animals have a better track record with children in the age categories of your own. By doing so, you will significantly enhance the chances that your children and your pet will have a healthy, safe and enjoyable relationship today and well into the future.
------------------------
Your satisfaction with your pet portrait paintings is guaranteed in http://www.portraitkingdom.com/ Tracy Hargraves along with other artists who create pet portraits shares with you the advantages of keeping pictures of your pets and turning them into oil portrait painting.
Thursday, 21 June 2007
Coffins for pets
Article from icLanarkshire.co.uk:
An eco-friendly coffin for green-minded people - and their pets - has been unveiled.
The ARCA coffin is constructed of cork and aims to bridge the gap between traditional wooden designs, which take years to biodegrade, and more recent eco-models, which have been criticised.
And designer Nick Colvin, who studies at Gray's School of Art in Aberdeen, hopes to build the coffins not just for deceased people, but also for cherished pets. The 21-year-old, from Edinburgh, said he was willing to make any size cork coffin to order, from a goldfish up to a dog.
An eco-friendly coffin for green-minded people - and their pets - has been unveiled.
The ARCA coffin is constructed of cork and aims to bridge the gap between traditional wooden designs, which take years to biodegrade, and more recent eco-models, which have been criticised.
And designer Nick Colvin, who studies at Gray's School of Art in Aberdeen, hopes to build the coffins not just for deceased people, but also for cherished pets. The 21-year-old, from Edinburgh, said he was willing to make any size cork coffin to order, from a goldfish up to a dog.
Monday, 18 June 2007
Air gun attacks on pets
An increase in air gun attacks on animals has prompted the RSPCA to urge people to report gun incidents.
Last year the charity received 90 calls to air gun incidents in the West Midlands - including 33 involving shot cats and 37 concerning injured birds.
Supt Martyn Hubbard said: "Our figures only provide a snapshot of this issue as many more animals crawl away to die in agony from their injuries.
"Sadly not all incidents are reported to us or witnessed."
He added: "We are appealing to the public to help prevent unnecessary suffering to countless animals by reporting any witnessed incidents to us or the police."
Paralysed
Mr Hubbard appealed to parents not to buy their children air weapons unless they would be used under supervision.
A recent victim of a fatal air gun attack was two-year-old cat Tigger, who was shot in Willenhall in the Black Country in May.
The animal had to be put down after an air gun pellet lodged in its spine, paralysing it.
Local vet Julie Winfield, who treated Tigger, said: "It is sickening to see this kind of cruelty to cats but sadly this sort of case is far from uncommon.
"We have had several cats brought into the practice over the past 12 months suffering from air gun injuries."
from the BBC
Last year the charity received 90 calls to air gun incidents in the West Midlands - including 33 involving shot cats and 37 concerning injured birds.
Supt Martyn Hubbard said: "Our figures only provide a snapshot of this issue as many more animals crawl away to die in agony from their injuries.
"Sadly not all incidents are reported to us or witnessed."
He added: "We are appealing to the public to help prevent unnecessary suffering to countless animals by reporting any witnessed incidents to us or the police."
Paralysed
Mr Hubbard appealed to parents not to buy their children air weapons unless they would be used under supervision.
A recent victim of a fatal air gun attack was two-year-old cat Tigger, who was shot in Willenhall in the Black Country in May.
The animal had to be put down after an air gun pellet lodged in its spine, paralysing it.
Local vet Julie Winfield, who treated Tigger, said: "It is sickening to see this kind of cruelty to cats but sadly this sort of case is far from uncommon.
"We have had several cats brought into the practice over the past 12 months suffering from air gun injuries."
from the BBC
Sunday, 17 June 2007
Smoking and Pets
Britons pets face health risks associated with passive smoking, and says shocking research from pet insurer More Than, the risks will increase when the ban on smoking in bars and restaurants comes in to force shortly in the UK.
With over a million smokers in the UK saying that theyll go out less because of the ban and now stay in and smoke because of the ban, this is putting the nations pet cats, dogs, birds and other small furries at serious health risks.
The research says that British pet owners enjoy a smoke, with nearly a quarter of them smoking every day. And 44 per cent of these admit that they do smoke indoors, often in the same room as their pet.
The effects of this smoking on pets can be the same as what humans can suffer from, such as respiratory problems, coughing, watery eyes and even life threatening diseases such as lung cancer and chronic bronchitis.
And in households where here are more than one smoker, the effects on animals are actually increased four-fold, says the research. Yet, despite the massive publicity about the ill affects of passive smoking, still many smokers continue to out the health of others including their pets at risk.
When asked, 38 per cent of pet owners who smoke said that they had not realised that passive smoking could endanger their pets health. Yet only 11 per cent of the respondents to the survey said that they would stop smoking if they knew it could make their pets ill.
Sadly, three-quarters of a million smokers said that they would still continue smoking as normal, despite the warnings of the ill effects it could have on their animals.
If you are a smoker and you arent prepared to quit, then do consider the health of your pet or pets. Try smoking out in the garden, or in a room where your pet doesnt go. Keep any communal areas well ventilated.
If they could speak, your pet would thank you for it.
Article Source: ArticleHub
With over a million smokers in the UK saying that theyll go out less because of the ban and now stay in and smoke because of the ban, this is putting the nations pet cats, dogs, birds and other small furries at serious health risks.
The research says that British pet owners enjoy a smoke, with nearly a quarter of them smoking every day. And 44 per cent of these admit that they do smoke indoors, often in the same room as their pet.
The effects of this smoking on pets can be the same as what humans can suffer from, such as respiratory problems, coughing, watery eyes and even life threatening diseases such as lung cancer and chronic bronchitis.
And in households where here are more than one smoker, the effects on animals are actually increased four-fold, says the research. Yet, despite the massive publicity about the ill affects of passive smoking, still many smokers continue to out the health of others including their pets at risk.
When asked, 38 per cent of pet owners who smoke said that they had not realised that passive smoking could endanger their pets health. Yet only 11 per cent of the respondents to the survey said that they would stop smoking if they knew it could make their pets ill.
Sadly, three-quarters of a million smokers said that they would still continue smoking as normal, despite the warnings of the ill effects it could have on their animals.
If you are a smoker and you arent prepared to quit, then do consider the health of your pet or pets. Try smoking out in the garden, or in a room where your pet doesnt go. Keep any communal areas well ventilated.
If they could speak, your pet would thank you for it.
Article Source: ArticleHub
Friday, 15 June 2007
Mongrels
The amazing thing about dogs are the different types of breeds, there must be hundreds of them, and they all differ in temperament, needs and what they want do.
Some of the breeds suffer with problems that are common to the breed, so I much prefer to have a Mongrel, which as it name suggests is a mix of at least two breeds if not more. I think that this then makes the dog a good rugid animal, with characteristics of the differing breeds. All in all a good pet to have.
Petplanet.co.uk
Some of the breeds suffer with problems that are common to the breed, so I much prefer to have a Mongrel, which as it name suggests is a mix of at least two breeds if not more. I think that this then makes the dog a good rugid animal, with characteristics of the differing breeds. All in all a good pet to have.
Petplanet.co.uk
Wednesday, 13 June 2007
Budgies
A budgie is a good pet to have, because apart from the different colours they come in, blues, greens and yellows, if you have the patience, they can be taught to speak. Now which other pet can you have a conversation with?, admittedly what they say is only what you teach them. Because of this they are great company if you live alone.
Saturday, 9 June 2007
Pets in Wills
A man who left his 11 collie dogs to the RSPCA in his will is the focus of a new service by the animal charity. Six of the dogs were sent to the charity's Bryn y Maen centre in Conwy as part of the Home for Life campaign.Fran and Flora have already found new homes but Flo, Susie, Fleur and Flossie are still looking for new owners.
The charity launched the service after discovering around 4,300 pet owners died in Wales every year without making a provision for their pet. The 11 collies were split between two of the charity's re-homing centres and of the six that arrived at Bryn y Maen, two - Fran and Flora - have been re-homed. “The gentleman with the collies wanted the best for his dogs," said centre manager Becky King. "I don't think people are aware of this service but we are keen for people to know it is available, free of charge," she said. "By putting it in their wills that they want the RSPCA to look after their pets it gives an assurance to the owners that their loved animal will be cared for when they are not around to do so. "In many cases, family members are well placed to look after these pets, but some pet owners might not consider the emotional and financial burden that unwanted pets can place on the recently bereaved. "These pressures can often result in further distress for the pet itself." As well as the four collies the centre is also urgently looking for a home for a blind collie dog called Gelert. He spends his days in the centre's office. "He can't be in a kennel as his hearing is his keenest sense because he is blind, and it would be too noisy and scary for him," said Ms King. The centre at Colwyn Bay currently has 30 dogs, 70 cats and 30 smaller animals such as rabbits and ferrets and some wildlife. While cats live up to 16 years old, some pets are more likely to outlive older owners with birds such as macaws and cockatoos living for around 70 years. taken from the BBC.
The charity launched the service after discovering around 4,300 pet owners died in Wales every year without making a provision for their pet. The 11 collies were split between two of the charity's re-homing centres and of the six that arrived at Bryn y Maen, two - Fran and Flora - have been re-homed. “The gentleman with the collies wanted the best for his dogs," said centre manager Becky King. "I don't think people are aware of this service but we are keen for people to know it is available, free of charge," she said. "By putting it in their wills that they want the RSPCA to look after their pets it gives an assurance to the owners that their loved animal will be cared for when they are not around to do so. "In many cases, family members are well placed to look after these pets, but some pet owners might not consider the emotional and financial burden that unwanted pets can place on the recently bereaved. "These pressures can often result in further distress for the pet itself." As well as the four collies the centre is also urgently looking for a home for a blind collie dog called Gelert. He spends his days in the centre's office. "He can't be in a kennel as his hearing is his keenest sense because he is blind, and it would be too noisy and scary for him," said Ms King. The centre at Colwyn Bay currently has 30 dogs, 70 cats and 30 smaller animals such as rabbits and ferrets and some wildlife. While cats live up to 16 years old, some pets are more likely to outlive older owners with birds such as macaws and cockatoos living for around 70 years. taken from the BBC.
Wednesday, 6 June 2007
BIRDS IN THE GARDEN
Although not a pet I just felt that I would make a comment on the birds that frequent my garden at the moment, mainly due to the fact that as I do not have a pet of my own at the moment I have put a bird table out for them with food on it, and that attracts them.
I notice that there are several different types of birds appearing at the moment, sparrows, doves, pigeons, tits, finches, blackbirds and starlings to say the least.
I have been watching them for a few days and a particular blackbird, which is quite unafraid of me, has been bringing the three offspring to the table very regularly. Now I do not not know if it is this is usual with blackbirds but this blackbird does not get on with starlings, all the other birds ok but if there are any starlings about this blackbird chases them away.
I notice that there are several different types of birds appearing at the moment, sparrows, doves, pigeons, tits, finches, blackbirds and starlings to say the least.
I have been watching them for a few days and a particular blackbird, which is quite unafraid of me, has been bringing the three offspring to the table very regularly. Now I do not not know if it is this is usual with blackbirds but this blackbird does not get on with starlings, all the other birds ok but if there are any starlings about this blackbird chases them away.
Saturday, 2 June 2007
Dogs or not?
Before you decide to have a dog I think you should have a think about a few things about the responsibility of owning a dog. Do you have the time for a dog, can you afford to keep a dog, they are not cheap, if you have children can they behave with a dog, and what type of dog, as some dogs are more suitable than others. Lots to think about.
Friday, 1 June 2007
A bit of a worry in USA for pets.
I have come across this report from the USA, I have not seen much mention of it in the UK, hopefully it does not apply here, but it must be worrying for pet owners in America.
On March 15, U.S. Food and Drug Administration learned that certain pet foods were sickening and killing cats and dogs. FDA found contaminants in vegetable proteins imported into the United States from China and used as ingredients in pet food.
Pet food manufacturers have voluntarily recalled more than 100 brands of dog and cat food across the nation since March 16, 2007. The recall was prompted by reported cases of cats and dogs in the United States that developed kidney failure after eating the affected products.
A portion of the tainted pet food was used to produce farm animal feed and fish feed. FDA and the U.S. Department of Agriculture discovered that some animals that ate the tainted feed had been processed into human food. Government scientists have determined that there is very low risk to human health from consuming food from animals that ate tainted feed. All tainted pet food, animal and fish feed, and vegetable proteins continue to be recalled and destroyed.
If you're a pet owner wondering what to feed your pets, keep in mind the following: Although many different types of pet food are affected by the recall, the recalled products represent only about one percent of the total pet food available for purchase, according to the Pet Food Institute, the trade association for pet food manufacturers.
Thursday, 31 May 2007
Dogs Names
Did you know what the top ten dogs names are, well the male ones are SAM, SPOT, PIP, DUKE, PIPER, MAX, CHARLIE, ROCKY, ZAK AND TINY, the top female ones are TRIXIE, POLLY, JESSIE, LUCY, BONNIE CASSIE, DAISY, HEIDI, SUSIE AND HOLLY. I am afraid my old dogs name Sandy doesn't make the list which is a bit disappointing.
Tuesday, 29 May 2007
Dogs
Another idea for people who can not look after a dog is to sponser a dog at a place like the National Canine Defence League or the Dogs Trust as it is now known.
Basically you pay a sum of money to the trust to look after the dog, and you get information about the dog and you get to visit them if you want at a local centre.
My local one is at Roden in Shropshire, but they have seventeen homes in the UK, I am sure that there must be similar organistions in other countries.
While mentioning the Dogs Trust they also rehome dogs so if you are looking for a dog then this is the place to start as they are invariably well looked after and are given all the vacinations. They also vet the potential owners as well to make sure that they are suitable owners
Basically you pay a sum of money to the trust to look after the dog, and you get information about the dog and you get to visit them if you want at a local centre.
My local one is at Roden in Shropshire, but they have seventeen homes in the UK, I am sure that there must be similar organistions in other countries.
While mentioning the Dogs Trust they also rehome dogs so if you are looking for a dog then this is the place to start as they are invariably well looked after and are given all the vacinations. They also vet the potential owners as well to make sure that they are suitable owners
Fish Pond
At my old house, I had the room for a decent sized fish pond in the back garden, we had inherited the pond from the previous owners.
We stocked the pond with various fish, mostly goldfish and shubunkins which I think are the most easiest fish to look after
At the house I live at now I have no room for a pond, not even a little one, so the fish had to go. I would love to have fish in a pond again, with a filter and a waterfall to keep the water reasonably clear.
If you have the space I would highly recommend it.
We stocked the pond with various fish, mostly goldfish and shubunkins which I think are the most easiest fish to look after
At the house I live at now I have no room for a pond, not even a little one, so the fish had to go. I would love to have fish in a pond again, with a filter and a waterfall to keep the water reasonably clear.
If you have the space I would highly recommend it.
Monday, 28 May 2007
Pretend Pets
Not everyone has the time, space, resources or temperament to keep a pet, an answer to this, in this computer age is a virtual pet. I am not talking about one of those little toys from a few years ago like a tamagotchi, but a pet that is looked after on the computer. Not kept on the computer but kept online. If you are feeling like a different type of pet than this may be worth a look, it may even be fun.
Dogs who are bored
Dogs are a lot like children. They need stimulation or they will get bored and we all know the trouble children can be when they get bored.
Bored dogs are generally unhappy dogs and they are also the dogs that are most likely to get into trouble with other animals and humans.
Dogs love to be taken for walks or a run along the beach. They get to look at a different environment and interact with strangers and other dogs.
This social interaction is very important for the overall well being of your dog and it is something that needs to be done on a regular basis.
The happiest dogs are often the working dogs as they not only have a purpose in life but they also get the praise and regular attention of their owners.
Even simply getting your dog some toys of it's own to play with can add a lot of fun and happiness to it's life, but more importantly getting the dog involved in family activities will have a positive effect on it's mental state and happiness.
Bored dogs are generally unhappy dogs and they are also the dogs that are most likely to get into trouble with other animals and humans.
Dogs love to be taken for walks or a run along the beach. They get to look at a different environment and interact with strangers and other dogs.
This social interaction is very important for the overall well being of your dog and it is something that needs to be done on a regular basis.
The happiest dogs are often the working dogs as they not only have a purpose in life but they also get the praise and regular attention of their owners.
Even simply getting your dog some toys of it's own to play with can add a lot of fun and happiness to it's life, but more importantly getting the dog involved in family activities will have a positive effect on it's mental state and happiness.
Pets for life
As the saying goes Dogs are for life, not just at Christmas, I think this is true for any pet. As any pet lover will tell you a pet becomes part of the family and should be considered a long term responsibility. Unfortunately by the very nature of the pet some pets will live longer than others, hamsters and gerbils for example, will not live longer than three or four years, whereas dogs and cats will live a lot longer than this.
Sunday, 27 May 2007
Dogs and cats
Cats should be fed different food to dogs, as they require more protein and higher specific requirements for a variety of nutrients. One of these is taurine.A cat must have taurine in its diet. This is an essential nutrient which helps to avoid certain deficiency conditions. As cats cannot make sufficient taurine for their requirements it is is supplied directly in the diet. Dogs do not need taurine in their diet, so for a balanced diet dogs and cats must stick to their own specific diets. Cats are carnivores and cannot live healthy lives on a vegetarian or low protein diet. The protein they need must be given in the form of meat, fish and fat. Virtually no taurine is found in plants or cereals. Dogs on the other hand can survive on a vegetarian diet, but this is not ideal.
Milk
Did you know that you should not give cows milk to dogs or cats, as this will lead to problems with the digestive system of the animals, causing them to have vomiting or diarrhoea. This is due to milk or cheese contain lactose which the animals can not digest.
Which Pet?
I have had several different types of pet during my lifetime, dogs, cats, budgies, hamsters, gerbils and goldfish to name but a few. I would say that the most fun I have had was with the dog, whose name was Sandy, no prizes for guessing what colour it was!!
I find that whatever type of pet I have had, that I always form a close bond with each pet and unfortunately when they pass on I am very sad. So my thinking is that I will not be having any more pets for the foreseeable future because of this.
I find that whatever type of pet I have had, that I always form a close bond with each pet and unfortunately when they pass on I am very sad. So my thinking is that I will not be having any more pets for the foreseeable future because of this.
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