Archive for November, 2010

When can you neuter or spay your dog

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With the number of pets kept by families; it is evident that animals, particularly dogs, are loved. Dogs have always been a part of most households. Because dogs would be a lifetime source of unconditional love, people will do everything for the welfare of the dog. Unfortunately, the surplus of animal population as well as financial and resources restrictions makes it impossible for humans to care for all the dogs. Because dog population exceeds the number of people willing to take a pet, millions of these unfortunate animals are put to sleep. Homeless dogs can be greatly reduced if unwanted litters is reduced by spaying or neutering a dog.

Neutering is a procedure that render male dogs permanently unable to reproduce. For female dog, the procedure done to prevent reproduction is known as spaying. This short surgery that is performed while the dog is under general anesthesia will remove the testicles in males and the uterus and ovaries in females.

Surgical sterilization has other benefits other than addressing dog population problem as the procedure can also prevent the development of unwanted behaviors that commonly arise from the dog’s mating instinct.

A dog that has undergone surgical sterilization will be easier to control as the aggressive nature is commonly modified but the dog’s natural affectionate personality will not be changed. More importantly, spayed and neutered dogs generally live healthier and longer lives as the risk for different types of cancer is considerably decreased.

Dog owners concerned for the health, welfare and happiness of the pet would ensure that the dog is spayed or neutered. Animal experts have conflicting views on the right age to surgically sterilize a dog. Dogs can be neutered or sterilized anytime and at any age. Through the studies done on canine sterilization it was found out that it would be advantageous to the dogs if the procedure is done at an early age. The popular belief is to have the procedure after the dog have had its first heat cycle but no evidence supports that this idea would be healthier for the pet. Contrary to popular belief, spaying or neutering is best done at an early age not only to prevent the dog from producing unwanted litters but also to lessen the risk of some health concerns as well as the development of unwanted behaviors.

Traditionally, dogs can only undergo sterilization procedure after reaching the age of 6 to 8 months. However, after safer pediatric anesthetic methods became available, the American Veterinary Medical Association has recommended the sterilization of dogs 8 weeks of age as long as the dog weighs over two pounds.

Still wonder when you should neuter or spay your dog? Find out more about this and first aid for dogs at Sarah’s Dogs.

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robbie on November 28th 2010 in Dog Ownership, Dog behavior, training Tips

Herbs for Pets and Other Natural Products Offer Many Advantages

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Cat and dog owners are noticing more products available with labels promoting “all natural” ingredients, including organic foods, natural remedies, herbs for pets and all-natural flea repellents and grooming items. This growing industry is flourishing in response to the consumer’s desire for healthy foods, medications, toys and treats for their four-legged family members.

Many devoted animal lovers treat their dog or cat as a family member, making sure they have almost everything they need to lead happy, healthy lives. As people get a better understanding of the importance of eating organic foods to protect themselves from harmful toxins and genetically modified organisms (GMOs), it naturally follows that those caring for furry family members would want to provide the same protection for them.

It is critical for pet owners to realize that cats and dogs have different dietary needs, so it’s equally important to pay attention to which products are made for one animal or the other. For example, giving a cat food made for a dog might mean it will not receive the full proteins, minerals and vitamins it needs for optimum health. This is also true of supplements and medicines, some of which are not made to be interchangeable. However, since some owners enjoy the company of both animals in their home, plenty of organic pet products are available that meet the needs of both species. Just be sure to pay attention to correct portions and dosages, particularly in the case of medications and tinctures.

Generally, organic and natural goods are a bit more expensive. This is because producers recognize that both dogs and cats are mainly carnivorous (meat eaters) and do not need or want fillers like gluten products. Nevertheless, these fillers allow commercial companies to ensure longer shelf lives for the food, and also keep costs down for customers. All-natural products focus more on freshness in foods including raw meats, organic vegetables and whole grains – ingredients your pets require for optimum health and fitness.

Many owners insist on only natural foods and medicines for their pets, but might forget about this necessity when it comes to their toys. Since toys as well as treats are not firmly regulated, harmful toxins and chemicals have been found in them. In fact, recently there have been reports of cats and dogs becoming severely ill or even dying due to ingesting toxic chemicals, metals or paints in some toys (or most recently in chicken jerky chews). Selecting products manufactured with non-toxic, all-natural materials not only keeps your pet safe, but could also assure that your babies and small children will be safe, in case these same toys wind up in their little mouths.

Selecting organic foods, natural vitamins and supplements and safe, non-toxic toys helps your pets lead long healthy lives. This allows the loving owner to enjoy the company of their canine or feline companion for many years to come.

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Where to Leave Your Dog

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The last thing anyone wants to consider is who will take care of my pet if something should happen to me. Although agonizing to consider this possibility, by making a plan now, you can alleviate the stress and strain down the road.

When considering a home for your dog, select an environment that will provide the type of care and attention that you would want for him. Is your dog the outdoorsy type or is he happiest in the comfort of your warm den? Is he a fussy eater or have certain dietary or healthcare needs? Is there a well-beloved toy or item in the home that he simply can’t live without?

Once you’ve considered what you want from a boarding facility, then you can begin your search.

Ask with your pet’s doctor first. Vets usually offer boarding as a service to their clients and it is not their primary focus. While you can take comfort in the fact that trained medical care is available each day, opportunities for your pet to get exercise, play or be pampered may be limited by the staffing and structure of the office. Also make sure it’s not in an environment that will stress him of her out or get them sick.

If you still feel uncomfortable, don’t do it. An internet search for dog boarding in your city will likely yield several results of both yellow page listings and websites. A good website you should search is www.dogboarding.com. This site lists kennels by location throughout the country as well as providing contact information so you can reach out and speak with their staff.

It also pays to ask the kennel staff to describe an average day at their facility. If possible, arrange to visit the kennel to see if it is as described. Also, it may be a good idea to take your pet there to see if the acclimate. Once you have found a kennel where you believe your dog will be happy, arrange for him to spend a day or a weekend. If you’re planning a vacation, this may be a good idea so that your dog will know that you will be back for it. You may need to try more than one location before you are satisfied with the idea of leaving your pet for any length of time.

Planning ahead to find a facility that makes you comfortable, even though you have no trips scheduled, is necessary to your peace of mind. Then, if an emergency happens, you’ll know what to do with your beloved pet.

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robbie on November 27th 2010 in Dog Ownership

An Overview Of Dog Car Seat Covers

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Dog Automotive Seat Covers: You’re bucked connecting the dearest in your pet and the most wanted for your car. It is advisable to carry your pet on you alongside a driveway, merely what almost the costly upholstery? They are going to value a hatful by grass over, clay, spit and hand marks.

Purchasing a seat cover as your dog want puzzle out your bother!

Pet seat covers are significantly controlled to protect your upholstery from knifelike arms and tooth, as soon as checking a slip-free drive for your pets. They preserve your canine from slipping away the seat all meter you finish at a stoplight. Padded with rainproof buffers, dog car seat covers safe a good travel to your canines without any hurt to your machine.

Seat cowl for canine can be effectively arrange and removed by strapping them to the head restraint. Generally dog seat covers replenish complete seat space, though’ selected are systematic for a battlefront part of the seats only. They have changeable whips to be related generally the seat and onto the headrests.

Certain covers escort a canine safe collar that may be accompanied the nab of your canine, restraining its movement although traveling. Waterproof dog beds and canine automotive seat covers encourage your seat neat from drool and are sometimes filled with compact polyester.

The covers are also created of nylon or cotton wool mingled with polyester.

The pet change of surroundings Hammock is belike essentially the most of value touring accessory for dogs, as it is dreadfully shapely to keep the blackguard in the again seat with out drop-off and too balks its try to return into the rider seat at the face. Built of waterproof cloth, them moderates 2 massive pouches, an water bottle pouch and tackles for dog safety.

Canine Covers is really a great producer of dog journey accessories. Their merchandise admit seat protectors, a few common and customized dog car seat covers. They as well craft particular door bucklers that go away hold the inside of auto doorways release from soil and scratch.

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robbie on November 20th 2010 in Dog Ownership

Vaccines and Boosters For A Healthy Dog

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Vaccinations: For a Wholesome and Protected Puppy.

Health is obviously very important. It can be answered with a basic yet true statement: It’s important due to the fact wellness is our “everything” and it allows us to perform our day by day tasks in our lives correctly. It’s vital for us to have a long and lasting life and if you do not take excellent care of the well being, it may well well mean expenses, lost time, and suffering. Overall, I would say, it is critical due to the fact it really is our greatest asset. Health really should often be the initial consideration from humans to animals alike. Maintaining good hygiene may be one of your couple of details you have to complete to sustain fantastic well being and others would consist of getting the correct diet, physical workout and sleeping correctly. What others fail to do, is to have regular appointments with their doctors, and vaccination.

Tips For Pet Owners

Our body gets sick from time to time, and so do dogs. Its best to give them regular vaccines to guard against serious illness. and it also plays a wonderful role in reducing or even eradicating the occurrence of instances of a lot of recognized disorders. Your canine, as part of keeping him healthy, must be correctly vaccinated. This can assist him as effectively as other canine that he may possibly possibly very well meet to steer clear of acquiring a selection of diseases. To understand far extra about vaccination, you’ll have the ability to consult your vet and you’ll have the ability to also continue reading as I have researched a couple of items and pointers about vaccination. A dog’s vaccine might possibly correctly maybe come as monovalent or a combination shot which will protect your canine from several widespread doggy ailments. Given beneath are the unique sorts of vaccines: When, why and what your doggy should be obtaining.

Tips For Pet Owners

-  At 5weeks old- At this age, your dog must be finding his Parvovirus vaccine. Parvovirus is really a extremely communicable canine illness. It can be transmitted via indirect or direct contact with their feces. It has two major types: intestinal and cardiac. Common manifestations of this ailment in intestinal type are severe vomiting and dysentery. A result of this in cardiac type is cardiovascular or respiratory failure.

-  At 6 and 9 weeks- Give your dog a mixture vaccine(5-way vaccine).. ! It’s composed of adenovirus cough and hepatitis, distemper, parainfluenza, and parvovirus vaccines. A coronavirus vaccine may possibly also be specified if there’s a high risk of getting Coronavirus at this age. null Symptoms may consist of cough, lethargy, vomiting, discharges in nose and eyes. In advance phases, dogs can experience seizures and weakness.

-  At 12 months and above- At this age, Rabies vaccine may commonly be offered. Nevertheless, at some states, there are local laws provided, advising pet owners to possess their pets be vaccinated at a specific age. Bordetella Bronchiseptica is also advised to be given particularly if he will probably be around other canines. The sickness can also be called Kennel cough with all the symptom of a dry cough.It is most widespread in places in which there are many dogs.

-  At 12 and 15 weeks- Mixture vaccine that includes leptospirosis, coronavirus aand Lyme vaccine.

-  After 15 months of age- additional photographs for parvovirus may well be specified.

Booster Shots :

-  Distemper Mixture – it truly is never given for puppies 12 years and older.

-  Rabies vaccine – need to be offered yearly or depending on the laws manadated by the state.

-  Parvovirus- Right right after completion in the puppy series, it need to be provided 1 year immediately after. Following injections need to have 3-4 years interval.

Keep A Dog Healthy

With right vaccination, you’ll be able to prolong your dog’s life, stop him from struggling and save your money and time. You must maintain in mind that getting these vaccines would not insure 100% of protection against the said disorders and ought to also continually get them to the veterinarian for routine check-ups. In addition, good well being requires the mixture of appropriate hygiene, right shelter, excellent food and lots of exercise.

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robbie on November 20th 2010 in Dog Ownership, Health tips

Can dogs communicate?

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Nature may not have gifted dogs with the ability to speak but the human-dog association that spanned thousands of years have allowed humans to understand the dog’s form of communication. How can dogs make humans and other animals understand what they want to say? Dogs are intelligent animals and using body language and some forms of vocalizations, dogs can very well communicate with other dogs, with other animals and with humans. Dog owners would attest to the fact that man’s best friend really do have the ability to show their feelings and to convey what they mean to their human friends.

A dog’s method of communicating will be very apparent in a household with 2 or more dogs as one dog will grab the rank of being the leader of the pack. Dogs have a unique form of communicating with other dogs. Notice how the alpha male stops the rambunctious play of the other dogs. By growling menacingly, assuming a dominant position, the leader of the pack can communicate its displeasure to the pack members that would generally show signs of being submissive.

The growl and the bared teeth is the alpha male’s warning to the dogs lower in rank to behave. Dogs have another form of communication – the butt sniffing ritual. It is rather amusing to see dogs greet and communicate with each other as this is done by sniffing each other’s rear end.

Through the long years of association, man has finally understood the sounds as well as the body movement of dogs so that even if these animals were not gifted with the ability to speak they can still communicate with their human friend. Its true, dogs and humans have different ways of communicating but a patient and discerning pet owner will understand what the pet needs and what the pet want to convey simply by understanding the body movements as well as the facial expression of the dog. The barking as well as the posture of a dog that is excited at the arrival of the master is different from the barking of a dog wanting to alert the owners to the presence of intruders.

Dogs are not only man’s best friends they are also man’s faithful companions. It would certainly be nice if dogs can talk so that the pet can give its two cents worth of opinion on the troubles of the master but since man and dog have a different ways of communicating, both would have to be content with understanding each other’s body language and facial expression.

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robbie on November 19th 2010 in Dog Ownership

Take Your Time When Choosing Your Dog Crate

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Using a dog crate is the way most dog owners house train, transport, and give a little home for their dogs.  Whatever your use for one, getting the right one for your pet is important.

Aluminum Dog Crates

The Kalispel aluminum dog crate is not only solid and built to last but for those of us who are assembly challenged its already put together.  This create is perfect for those of us who are looking for something that is lightweight but still strong enough to safely keep our dog.

Drain holes and other features make it easy to clean, care for, and move.  It comes in various sizes to fit your dog and is good both indoors and out.  These top of the line crates are safe and weatherproof as well.

Metal Dog Crates

If you are looking for and inexpensive alternative to the aluminum dog crate there are metal dog crates that are similar to those you see at kennels.  These metal dog crates are typically not assembled and the bottoms may be made of metal or a fiberglass.  One of the benefits of these types of crates is your ability to collapse the crate when you are not using it.  This is a specially helpful if you all the use your crate indoors from time to time.  If you intend to use a crate although as make sure you purchase a crate that has protection from the weather.

Dog Crate Supplies

While it seems that a dog crate is basically self-contained, there are supplies that should go with them.  These include covers for insulation, option rooftop additions, and carrying handles or cases.  Keeping your dog healthy, comfortable, and dry are important and these accessories can do that for you.  Other supplies might also include tie-downs for use in truck beds or cargo areas, feeding containers that attach to the crate, and more.  Every crate will have different options available. Check with your Hunting Dog Supplies store for available options.

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robbie on November 19th 2010 in Dog Ownership

SUREFIRE TIPS ON STOPPING EXCESSIVE DOG BARKING

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Prevent Dog Barking

 

Difficulty and Training: Solutions to restrain your dog’s excessive barking

               Does your dog bark at anyone or anything? Are your neighbours complaining when he barks endlessly at the middle of the night? Does he even bark at an even the slightest noise that you yourself cannot hear? Then your dog might have a barking problem. It is not far to happen that your neighbor will quarrel with you because of your dog. Although barking is actually the dog’s way of communicating, inappropriate and incessant barking is irritating.You must be wondering how will you get him to stop. Well, fret not. Here are some surefire solutions that will definitely reduce your dog’s barking. There are two ways where you can stop barking- Hindrance and Training. However, it is more effective if you use both.

Hindrances

1.       Bark collar- Everytime your dog barks, this collar will vibrate, surprising him, making him to stop. This goes on, until he learns to bark properly. However, this will not be beneficial to a dog that barks due to fear. Using this will only make him  stressed and more fearful.

2.     Place him in the most comfortable position, where he cannot see any people passing by to distract him.
3.       Ultrasonic Deterrent – These make a sound undetectable to human ears which discourages barking.

4.         Citronella collar- this is almost the same with citronella collar, but these is being sprayed to he dog’s eyes to stop them barking. But if you love your dog, have a second thought of purchasing this as this may irritate his eyes.

5.       Give him activities-This will help remove the boredom away.

6.       Treat him for a massage to help him relax.  It also balances his system.

Prevent Dog Barking

Training1.       Dogs are easier to train while they are young. Train him while he is still a puppy.2.     Now, train your dog to stop the barking. Being quiet is the third thing you must teach to him after the “bark” and “whisper” lessons. You can do this by lowering your voice and make imitate you by lowering his voice too. This may be enjoying and you will get to make him easily participate in any game to play with him. Command him in a low voice so he will lower his too. Your dog may find this exciting and will enjoy participating in your game. Always reward him with a treat everytime he follows a command.3.       Teach him how to bark properly. This is kind of weird but you should believe that this technique works. You can apply the rewarding method, like if you ask him to “whisper” and if he barks at you softly, give him a treat. If you daily does this to him, he will recognize this learning and more probably follow what you would command to him.Dogs naturally bark and you should let them. Of course you don’t want to forever stop barking and all you must do is to stop their excessive habit. However, don’t easily trust the debarking treaments being offered elsewhere. Some are advertised in the way your dogs don’t deserve.

 

Dog Barking Solutions

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robbie on November 14th 2010 in Dog Ownership

Prevent Heartworms in a Dog

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Canines are affected everyday with heartworm disease and if not treated properly can be deadly. The disease spreads when a mosquito bites an infected dog and then bites a healthy one. When this insect bites an infected dog, it then becomes a carrier that deposits the illness when biting another one. Undeveloped heartworms are sent to the bloodstream where they await another mosquito to carry forth this disease. There are preventions that prove beneficial in keeping your pet safe. Dogs love to be outside and you cannot keep them confined for long. Daily exercise and routine bathroom needs expose them to nature’s elements.

Everyone knows it is impossible to keep a dog indoors all the time. Dog parks are a breeding ground for heartworm disease, especially those with little upkeep. It is important to avoid contact between your pooch and stray or wild animals. These carcasses carry immature worms and you should implement prevention by always watching what your animal consumes. Do not let your pet eat their own feces or that of another animal. This is a common opportunity for getting intestinal parasites. This is the most common avenue for getting intestinal parasites.

The vaccine destroys heartworm larvae prior to full maturity. Popular brands of vaccines administered by veterinarians include HeartGard, Interceptor, Sentinel and Revolution. Online pet suppliers that offer the vaccines should be avoided to ensure your canine receives the correct type and dosage. Popular brands of vaccines used include Interceptor, HeartGard Plus, Sentinel and Revolution. Monthly heartworm prevention has other benefits such as killing intestinal parasites and flea eggs. The benefits of monthly heartworm prevention also include the ability to kill intestinal parasites and flea eggs.

Having your dog tested for heartworms prior to starting any preventative treatment could mean the difference between life and death. The test consists of a veterinarian taking a few drops of blood and sending it off to a lab. This disease is only detectable after 6 months of exposure; therefore puppies will not be examined. Some veterinarians will want your canine tested every year or every two years dependent upon where you live. Dogs with heartworm disease will show signs of congestive heart failure. Treatment is expensive and not always effective if the disease has spread beyond help. It is healthier to take preventative steps in avoiding this debilitating disease.

Visit this website for information on Heartgard Plus For Dogs. And, you can also treat your dogs with personalized dog collar or spiked dog collar

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robbie on November 12th 2010 in Dog Ownership

Providing Your Dog With A Healthy And Nutritious Diet

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For many, owning a dog is one of life’s true pleasures and if you want what is best for your pet you need to focus on the food you are feeding to it.It is not only what you are feeding your dog, but also how much you are feeding that is important.When shopping for dog food please don’t just look at the price. If you are looking for the best dog food you need to pay close attention to the ingredients as they are much more important.Choosing the appropriate dog food can enhance your canine’s skin, eyes, teeth, energy, and overall health.

When shopping for dog food make sure you check the ingredients list stated on the packaging.Dogs are carnivores which means they like to eat meat.With this in mind you need to find a dog food where the very first ingredient is meat, whether this is chicken, beef, lamb, pork etc.  If the ingredients list shows meat by-products don’t buy it.  Meat by-products can include skin, fat, crushed bone and even feathers and offer no nutritional value.Dog food containing soya should also be avoided as research shows that an increasing number of dogs are allergic or intolerant to it.

There are now specialist dog foods available that in addition to providing a nutritionally balanced meal can also improve certain aspects of the animals physical well-being.For example, some may wish to boost the animal’s outer appearance while others may want to increase the dog’s energy.  There are specific ingredients to look for in food to accomplish these desires.

-  Oils also form an essential part of a dogs diet and oils containing Omega 6 and 3 can help to boost your dogs health and skin quality.
-  Carbohydrates and protein are essential for dogs, but more so for dogs who are very active as they help to preserve energy levels between feeds.Older, less active dogs will not need as high of a calorie diet as those that are younger and more vibrant.

If your dog prefers wet food served from a can you need to again pay attention to the ingredients. Avoid tinned foods that show water as the main ingredient.  The only benefit of a dog food high in water is seen in your pocket. Your dog will not be eating a healthy and nutritious meal with such food.  A diet based on canned, wet food should be supplemented with a daily dry snack which your dog can chew on, such as a bone or chewy stick.I  f you want the best for your dog’s health then you really so need to consider feeding her a premium quality, scientifically proven dog food product.  While theses foods are often higher priced, the additional cost that you pay is well worth the positive difference that you will see in your dog.

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robbie on November 12th 2010 in Dog Ownership, Health tips, dog food