The project of coop-building can get very complicated if you let it. But it needn’t be – building a chicken coop is relatively easy for creatures that are not at all pernickety about their home.

The first thing you need to do is decide what function your coop is going to have. Some chicken keepers use the coop only for roosting (where the chickens sleep at night). This means it can be relatively small and simple. Others use the coop for shelter and nesting/laying area throughout the day and night. A coop can have an attached, fenced-in yard or be free-standing.

So before you begin, take a good look at your property and think about what you want to accomplish with your chicken-keeping efforts. Consider the proximity of your neighbors, the type and number of predators (when you begin keeping chickens, you will find predators you never even knew existed), how many chickens you want to keep, and how much space you have available.

This is not a detailed guide by any means, but here are some easy steps you can take to make your own chicken coop.

• Start with a supporting structure. A dog kennel or crate is ideal. It will have a ready-made door, and its wire sides allow you to mount perches easily and plan for air circulation.
• If you are using the dog crate method, you will need to cover the crate with solid wood sides. Use pieces of plywood that are slightly larger than the crate’s sides by about 2 inches.
• To make a solid door from the wire dog crate door, you will need to drill holes in the plywood and mount it to the door using wire. Cut out a space for the sliding lock. You will also want to get some sort of padlock or clamp to secure the slide lock – predators like raccoons can quickly learn to open an unsecured slide lock.
• If you are not using the dog crate, you will need to build a supporting structure. This is best accomplished by making a frame out of 2x4s or 2x2s. Begin by laying out a square or rectangle on the ground using 2x4s; attach them at the corners. Then you can decide if you want to build an A-frame type of coop or a square one.
• Build the frame upward, attaching vertical pieces to each corner and in the middle of three of the sides. Slant these vertical pieces if you are doing an A-frame. Leave one side open so you can construct a door. Then cover this frame with a combination of plywood or hardware cloth/chicken wire.
• Insulation is something you might want to consider if you live in a very cold climate. If you insulate, you will need to make double walls with the insulation between them.
• The kind of door you make is important. It can be any size or shape you choose as long as the chickens can get in and out easily during the day and it can be locked securely at dark. Consider building a door that locks at the top and has hinges at the bottom so it can double as a ramp when open.
• The roof is also important. If you are using the dog crate structure, your roof will be flat. A-frames, of course, have sloped roofs. Either way, an inexpensive way to make the roof water-resistant is to cover it with plywood followed by roofing tiles.

    Click Here To read much more and receive my FREE 51 page, ‘Building A Chicken Coop’ Report.
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Many people compare the Chow Chow to the Spitz dog breed, simply because they share many of the same characteristics. It is been assumed that because they are so closely related, the Chow Chow is actually a descendant from the Spitz family. Unfortunately, the true bloodline of the Chow Chow cannot be confirmed. However, we do know that this dog has been widely popular in China for hundreds of years, possibly thousands.

The original function and purpose of the Chow Chow is theorized to have been as a hunting dog which would sniff out and find birds. Soon enough the breed started to decline in its quality and the number of survivors diminished to almost nothing after the Imperial Hunts. But a few Chow Chows were kept inside monasteries and with wealthy families and survived.

The name “Chow Chow” is said to have been created during the 1700s when large numbers of these dogs were imported into England from the Chinese. The exact reason for the term “Chow Chow” is not known, but dog historians assume that it may be linked to comparing the dogs to Oriental nick knacks. Another possibility is that the term Chow Chow was given because the dogs were packed into the middle of ship cargo when moved to other locations overseas.

The United States first saw the Chow Chow dog breed some time during the late 1800s when they were imported from various parts of England. Queen Victoria took great interest in the breed which helped attract a lot of attention to them. It was 1903 when the AKC finally recognized this dog as an official breed, especially due to its distinctive noble look.

Personality

The Chow Chow is said to be one of the top rated watchdogs that a family can have. Its protection ability is powerful and this dog is immensely cautious about overlooking its family members. The animal moves in a very reserved, almost noble type of way, and is extremely suspicious of strangers and other animals. Not the most playful of dog breeds, the Chow Chow may be a bit difficult to train.

Taking Care Of Your Chow Chow

Chow Chow dogs do not fare well during hot, humid weather. In fact, this dog prefers cold weather at all times. It’s coat is smooth, yet thick, and will need brushing at least one time per week. Some Chow Chows may demonstrate very rough fur and will need brushing every other day, particularly when shedding. Activity does not need to be tiresome, just a brisk walk each morning is plenty of exercise for this dog.

Health Information

The Chow Chow has a lifespan of up to 13 years, with 9 being the average. Major health concerns to watch out for are entropion, CHD, and patellar luxation. Minor health issues include stenotic nares, elbow dysplasia, distichiasis, gastric torsion, cataracts, and glaucoma.

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Many types of cat litter are on the market. Most litters are disposable; some are even flushable. Clawed cats are not likely to care what type you use. Declawed cats, on the other hand, are often challenged with litter box issues.

Non clumping clay litters

Granulated pieces of clay litter are about the size of small-grain rice. 100% clay litters are natural, very inexpensive and available in every grocery store, pet stores, and online catalogs. They have been on the market since 1945. Clay litters are not biodegradable or flushable. The clay naturally contains silica dust which is a known carcinogen. Manufacturers say that the cat litter does not have any more silica dust than sandy beaches. Even so, if your cat has a sensitive health or behavior problem, you may try biodegradable litters. Many are dust-free and flushable, such as alfalfa pellets. Some clay litters are scented with a deodorizer that absorbs odors or is activated when the litter is pawed at or stirred. Your cat may or may not like the scent so try both kinds.

Clumping litter

Also known as “scoopable,” this type of litter forms a solid ball when urine penetrates a deep layer of the litter. The urine hardens the litter which can then be scooped out in a hard ball. This litter lasts longer and controls the smell of urine quite well. Some declawed cats may prefer the fine texture and softness of clumping litters. Because clumping litters control the odor so well, they seem ideal at first, especially if you have more than one cat. But there is a serious problem to some scoopable/clumping litters.

For clumping litters to work, they need a “clumping agent.” A popular clumping agent in many scoopable brands is sodium bentonite. This agent acts as a cement and may compromise your cat’s health that can be traced to sodium bentonite’s properties. This clumping agent expands to 15 times its size when wet. When a cat steps in the litter box, some sodium bentonite clings to his paws. Later on, the cat will lick it off. Once it gets into his digestive system, this trace residue will expand. This results in an impaired immune system, respiratory distress, and irritated bowel syndrome.

Non clumping clay litters at least have larger granules that tend to fall off his paws. And they do not contain this type of cement that gives scoopables their “clump.” Since manufacturers do not have to disclose ingredients on the litter’s label, call them and ask if the clumping litter contains sodium bentonite. If it does, try another brand.

Litter containing ingredients such as calcium bentonite and sodium bentonite may also ruin the plumbing in your house. Some municipalities may fine you if certain clumping litters are found in your pipes or sewer.

Biodegradable litters

Biodegradable litters come from plants. These litters are made of alfalfa, corn cob, aspen, citrus peels, pine and wheat. Most are flushable but call the manufacturer to be sure, or if you have a septic tank. New biodegradable litters are hitting the market almost every year. Some litters are finely ground, others are pellet type. Some naturally clump without sodium bentonite. Most are dust-free.

Newspaper litters

Litters recycled from newspaper come in pellet form. These are found in grocery stores, online catalogs, and pet stores. However, newspaper could be toxic to some cats or people because some inks are toxic. Some do not control odor too well.

Litter Boxes

Look for litter boxes in hardware stores, pet stores, and online catalogs. Disinfect and rinse them well before using. Have at least one box per cat. Add an additional box if they are kept indoors only or declawed. The size of the box depends on the cat and his personality.

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In humans, the importance of exercise has been proven time and again. But what about our canine friends? Is it enough to just feed them properly and give them occasional walks? What are the benefits of exercise to dogs?

All dogs need exercise:

Studies as well as experience have shown that dogs who are getting adequate exercise are healthier and happier. They are also more social when they are in public places. When dogs are given regular exercise, they are more calm at home and are less restless when left alone. However, just like feeding, choosing the right amount of exercise for your dog should depend on several factors. These factors are age, size, and type of breed.

Age: Puppies require daily exercise for proper muscle development. Their high energy levels need to be released in some form of constructive activity, and giving them their daily exercise is the best way to do it. Not being able to release their pent-up energy can lead to destructive behavior such as chewing or digging. On the other hand, a mature, aging dog needs less exercise because of their lower energy levels.

Size: Large dogs do not necessarily need more exercise than small dogs. In fact, many large breeds like the Mastiff or Great Dane would rather relax and sit on the porch all day then go out for a 2 mile run. Nevertheless, they also need their daily exercise, perhaps one or two 30 minute walks everyday. On the other hand, many types of small breeds such as the Jack Russell Terrier or Chihuahua still keep on going even after a three-mile walk.

Type Of Breed: Your dog’s breed is also a big factor on the amount of exercise required. For instance, dogs that were originally bred to herd such as the Australian Cattle Dog, Border Collie, and German Shepherd need to be exercise daily. Another example of a breed that requires daily exercise are those that were originally bred to hunt (hunting dogs). Examples of these dogs are the Beagle, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, and German Hunt Terrier. And finally,sled dogs such as the Siberian Husky, Samoyed, and Alaskan malamute share the same high level of energy as the herding dogs and hunting dogs and therefore, need to be exercised on a regular basis.

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Cats can be major stinkers. We’re not talking about smell, but rather their “catty” behavior towards their humans. Cats believe they are superior to all other living things. Don’t you feel that sometimes they are just humoring us humans? Sometimes, their behavior can go to extremes and make us all crazy. Whether it is caterwauling, stalking, pouncing or displaying their dual personalities and schizophrenic tendencies, sometimes coexisting with your cat can be nerve-wracking and almost not worth the trouble. However, with a few basic tips, you can live with your cat peacefully. Ok, peaceful might be a relative term, but you get the idea!

Co-existing tip #1 – Take your cue from your cat. Many times, we humans do not know when to stop petting. Usually your cat will instigate a petting session, but they can only put up with so much petting and become over stimulated. Since they cannot turn around and tell us to back off, they let us know in their own way that “enough is enough” by nipping at us. This does not indicate that they are being malicious, but rather that they need their own time-out from the petting. By cuing into their behavior moments before they nip, you can avoid their sharp little teeth. Tensing of the body, tail flicking, and even pinned back ears are all signs leading to the cat’s nipping behavior.

Co-existing tip #2 – Stalking and pouncing are all part of a cat’s innate nature. Hunting and stalking prey are ingrained in their genes. That is just what cats do. Don’t take it personally when all of the sudden, out of nowhere, your cat decides you make for a fun plaything and pounce. Luckily for most cats, this playful aggression is just a phase that they eventually grow out of as they enter into their adult cat roles. It is up to you to know how to avoid conflict with your cat during these “playful” times. One way is to deflect this playful aggression away from you before it actually happens. Pay attention to where your cat is and learn the body cues that tell you when they are about to make their move. Another way is to divert their attention to another activity.

Co-existing tip #3 – Digging is another cat quirk ingrained in their genetic makeup. This quirk shows up predominately during bodily waste elimination. Just picture them in their litter box. They are always scratching around so that they can cover up their “evidence.” Cats also dig for recreation and can make short work of your garden or houseplants. It doesn’t pay to get upset with what is usually normal behavior for a cat. Instead fight back with citrus products. Cats absolutely hate any citrus smells – orange, grapefruit, lemons and limes. Bury the rinds from these fruits in the soil of your houseplants or outside in your garden’s perimeter.

Co-existing tip #4 – Scratching can be beneficial for cats. Using their claws offers up several benefits for cats. For one, scratching helps eliminate dead cells from the claws. Secondly, when cats claw on things, they are marking their territory, both in a visual and scented way. Cats need a sense of their own domain and clawing helps your felines feel more secure. Before scheduling surgery to remove their claws due to their destructive ways, you can help them by providing scratching posts and pads for their use. Use catnip as an incentive by rubbing it on the scratching post.

Co-existing tip #5 – All that meowing has a purpose. Sometimes, it seems that your cat’s mission in life is to drive you up the wall with all their caterwauling. However, all that vocalizing is how they communicate. And since we are mere human beings, we just don’t get what they are telling us. However, through a little trial and error, we can determine at least what some of that cat calling is all about. One of the reasons for the incessant meowing could be hunger or boredom. If there is no food in their bowl and it’s close to dinner time, put food in their bowl. If they shut up and eat, you got lucky and figured out that particular meow. Other times, all that meowing could mean that your cat is ready to mate or they are fearful of something. If there is a storm outside or one is about to start, that might be a good indication of why your cat is meowing.

Cats are complex creatures and these five basic co-existing tips aren’t even close to deciphering the moods and quirks of your feline. It could take a lifetime to figure it all out! However, just remember to take your cue from them and always assess a situation before administering punishment to your family feline.

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Although the exact origins of the Chinese Shar-Pei is unknown, experts agree that the breed may be connected to the Chow Chow. Both breeds stand a good chance of sharing the same ancestry, and of course both are from China.

Further evidence suggests that the Chinese Shar-Pei was in existence by the 13th century. Stout, wrinkly dogs were depicted in writings during this time. The breed may have even existed in the southern provinces of China, approximately 200 B.C.

The reason why its history is so hard to trace is because most of the records that relate to the Chinese Shar-Pei were lost or destroyed when China became a communist country. During this time the breed was used by peasant farmers dog fighters, guard dogs, and even as a hunter of wild boar.

Soon after China became communist, the majority of the country’s dogs were completely eliminated. A few breeds were left in existence outside of city areas and several Shar-Peis were bred in Taiwan and Hong Kong. The breed was officially recognized by the Hong Kong Kennel Club in 1968.

It was during this same time period that groups of Chinese Shar-Pei dogs made their way to the United States. But it was in 1973 that more dog fanciers became familiar with the breed when an article was published that explains the breed’s alarmingly low numbers.

The Chinese Shar-Pei was considered one of the world’s rarest dogs at the time and dog enthusiasts made their best efforts to revive the breed. These efforts paid off. The Chinese Shar-Pei went from the brink of extinction and rose to new heights of popularity. In fact, they are one of the most recognizable dog breeds in the United States today.

Personality

The Chinese Shar-Pei has a personality that can best be described as independent, bold, and stubborn. These dogs have a serious temperament which many people describes as “self-possessed”. However, don’t let its rough-edged attitude fool you. The Chinese Shar-Pei is a highly devoted pet that is loyal and protective of its family. It is generally well-behaved around other pets in the house but may be overly aggressive towards strange dogs and other animals.

Taking Care Of Your Chinese Shar-Pei

This breed will need daily physical exercise and plenty of mental stimulation. Activities such as fetching games and long walks are plenty to fulfill these needs. The Chinese Shar-Pei is not necessarily suited for all-around outdoor living, so it’s best to divide its time between being inside and outside.

Grooming requirements are minimal, with the occasional brushing needed approximately one time weekly. However, some extra attention will be needed for the dog’s facial wrinkles. Check the skin folds to make sure that no irritation is breaking out.

Health Information

Healthy Shar-Pei dogs have an average life span of approximately 10 years. Major health concerns that may come up are CHD and entropion. Minor issues include amyloidosis, otitis externa, patellar luxation, skin fold pyodermas, allergies, and hypothyroidism. Fever breakouts are also quite common in this breed.

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Cat scratch disease is a disease spread by cats, but that affects only humans; it’s also called cat scratch fever. It is most commonly diagnosed in the colder winter and fall months of the year for reasons scientists don’t understand; it’s possible that cats are more likely to be indoors at this time, raising the chance of human exposure overall.

Cat scratch disease is caused by bacteria called Bartonella henselea that generally lives in the mouths of cats. They spread it to their claws through routine grooming. Interestingly, cat scratch disease is not spread through cat bites, only through cat scratches.

Most Americans have been exposed to cat scratch disease, and 5% of the US population has antibodies in their blood but no history of clinical illness. Because antibodies are only made in response to the invasion of a disease, it is clear that they were exposed to Bartonella directly. It is possible that they did not subsequently become ill, or that the disease was mistaken for the flu.

Cat scratch disease does present with flu-like symptoms. The most common symptoms include fever, chills, and lethargy, but they last for only a few days, much shorter than most flu’s.

There is a more severe form of cat scratch disease that causes high fever, anorexia, weakness, and badly swollen lymph nodes, particularly in the armpits and groin area. Sometimes the lymph swelling gets so bad that the swelling spontaneously ruptures; at other times, doctors choose to surgically drain them to prevent the rupture and relieve the pain.

Typically, the most serious form of the disease is seen in younger children and the elderly and people with compromised immune systems, such as those who have HIV, are receiving chemotherapy, or who have been the recipient of an organ donation. When the serious form of the disease presents itself, the consequences for the victim can be disability or even death.

If the disease in humans is treated immediately with antibiotics, the outcome is usually good, but it’s very hard to diagnose because it’s so similar to flu and because it is not a common disease. Cat scratch disease is often overlooked in its earliest stages, and only caught when the lymph nodes are involved. Almost every verified case of cat scratch disease follows a cat scratch wound; a few occur after a bite, and a few even crop up with no obvious cause.

Another oddity of cat scratch disease is that only rarely are adult cats involved in the transmission. Generally, a kitten scratch passes the disease. This does not mean you should not worry about it with an older cat, but only that you should worry more about the kittens. It is contagious for only about two or three weeks in a kitten, after which it goes dormant. It can recur, however.

Kittens can be diagnosed as cat scratch disease carriers through a simple blood test, and positive kittens can be treated successfully with antibiotics. Because this disease can come back, however, this is not a silver bullet for preventing cat scratch disease. Declawing kittens at an early age is the best way to prevent infection. You should be aware of the ramifications to the cat before declawing it, however. Not only can it be dangerous for the cat to go outside, it can also be psychologically traumatic and cause unexpected complications like arthritis.

There are a few alternatives to declawing your cat, such as claw covers or trimming back their claws, but you will have to be vigilant if you are in a home with an immunocompromised person.

Fewer than ten percent of family members scratched by a cat carrying cat scratch disease will develop the disease, and very serious illness from the disease is rare. If you’ve had cat scratch disease once, you are almost certainly immune to it afterward.

Cat scratch disease should not be confused with another cat-borne disease, toxoplasmosis. Toxoplasmosis is deadly to a pregnant woman’s fetus, but presents in different ways and is more likely to be inhaled when a woman changes her cat’s litter box. Cat scratch disease can be dangerous to a pregnant woman as well, but in an entirely different way.

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Is your family cat an indoor pet, outdoor pet or a combination of the two? For the most part, many family felines can claim being both an indoor and outdoor cat. If your cat spends any time outdoors, there is a good chance that they are bringing fleas into your home. It will not matter if you are diligent about treating your cat and the inside of your home for a flea infestation. If you are not as diligent about your own yard and surrounding areas in the treatment of fleas, your efforts for your cat and the inside of your home are futile. The only way to truly control your cat’s flea problem is to take care of the outside areas of your home.

First of all, look at your budget. If money is not an issue, your best bet would be to hire a pest control company to come and administer chemical remedies to both the inside and outside of your home. One of the best reasons to do this would be because the pest control company has access to chemicals that the normal person off the streets may not be privy to. However, if you are watching your pocketbook, it is definitely possible to control your flea population on your own. You just have to work at it.

There are a variety of methods to treat your yard. However, before you head to your nearest home improvement center or pet store for flea treatments, make sure your lay the ground work for your flea treatment “game plan.” Mowing your grass is the first step. You also need to weed eat your lawn, getting rid of weeds growing through fence lines, cracks in the sidewalk and around lawn items like playground equipment and furniture.

Step two of your flea treatment “game plan” is ensuring that your yard is free of any unwanted visitors like stray cats and dogs or any wild animals like skunks, raccoons, rats and mice. All of these animals carry fleas and other critters in their fur. Check your fencing to ensure there are no gaps where a wild animal or stray can squeeze into. Cover all your trash cans and make sure that industrious raccoons cannot open them. By taking steps to keep these strays and wild animals out, you are greatly reducing your chances of a flea infestation once you chemically treat your yard.

Another action to take in your “game plan” is to remove or at least contain any debris on your property. For instance, perhaps you have a trash pile somewhere. By getting rid of it or at least containing it, you can ensure that fleas will not continue to call that pile home. Perhaps you have some overgrown flower beds or gardens. If you are serious about flea treatments for your yard, you will also clean these areas as well or get rid of them all together.

Once you have prepared your yard, the next step in the flea treatment “game plan” is to purchase the chemicals. Both your pet stores and home improvement stores have experienced personnel to help you with your selections. The most popular treatment comes in a granule form. You would cover your yard and other outside areas with these granules, ensuring good coverage. Afterwards, you would water your outside areas to activate the granules and allow for greater seepage into the ground.

Another widely used method is to purchase a concentrated liquid flea treatment chemical. You would follow the directions of diluting it with water and administer the chemical through a large sprayer. This method is especially helpful for those areas where your cat might hang out the most like a tree, bush or cat bed. Related to this is another flea treatment concentrated liquid that hooks up to your garden hose for easy application and broadcasting.

How you treat for fleas outside your home depends on several things: the size of your yard, where you live, how long you can keep children and animals out of the yard and the foot traffic you might have (i.e. kids playing, visiting animals). Unfortunately, you might have to apply treatments multiple times before you notice any discernable differences in the flea population. Also, you might have to combine treatments. For instance, you might spread the granules throughout your yard, but instead of just watering it with your water sprinkler; you would water it down with the chemicals that attach to your garden hose. All of these methods or a combination of them should help keep the fleas down to a minimum so you and your cat can enjoy a scratch-free existence.

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You may be asking yourself, “Why am I creating a horse first aid kit-what goes in it?” Many new horse owners wonder the same thing. Do not wait until your horse has a near-fatal accident or injury to decide on putting together a first aid kit. Wherever you go with your horse, take a first aid kit along. Putting together a first aid kit for a horse isn’t as daunting a challenge as you may think. Here is a complete, vet-approved list of essential items, and some of their uses, for your kit.

First thing you will need is a container, whether it is a five-gallon pail with a lid, or a small travel suitcase, be sure you mark it clearly as a first aid kit for easy recognition in the event of an emergency.

Among the items for your kit should be as follows:

• A first aid book for horses, (any bookstore will have one)
• Antiseptic ointment, (any brand will do)
• 4″ vetrap
• A tourniquet
• Alcohol prep pads
• Paper towels
• Iodine
• Saline (pharmacy grade)
• A thermometer
• Scissors
• Several pairs of latex examination gloves
• 10cc Syringes
• Hydrogen Peroxide
• Sterile Gauze Pads
• 4×8 or larger cold packs
• Polo Wraps

These items will run right around thirty dollars to purchase and get you set up with your first, first aid kit. Think of this in terms of calling your vet. Most vets charge a farm charge, and if you’re like most horse owners, your horse never gets hurt during normal business hours. It’s always seems to be after the vet has closed for regular office hours.

The products listed here are for your first aid kit, and are not the only things you can put in it. Feel free to add or remove items that you deem necessary. Creating a horse first aid kit-what goes inside can be challenging in itself. Everyone you will talk to will have a different opinion. Think of some of the events you have attended where a horse has lost a shoe, and could have used an Easy Boot. Or what about the time your stall neighbors horse got colic, but no one had Banamine? Remember the horse that tore his shoe off going around the ring, and ripped a chunk of hoof wall away from his hoof, and not a soul had a rasp to file the rough edge to prevent him from injuring himself on his own hoof? What good is a cold pack if you don’t have a way to keep it secured to your horse’s injured leg? Duct tape or electrical tape will do the trick, and will also help bandages stay in place. Flashlights are splendid inventions to see what may be stuck in your horse’s hoof in that dark, drab stall. Maybe you need to look under his belly, and the light doesn’t shine up. These are a few things to think about. You can never really add too much to your first aid kit. It is always better to be over indulgent, than to not have enough in times of crisis.

This is a good thing to get kids started on, too. You can take an article like this to your local 4-H club and pose the same question to them. When it comes to creating a horse first aid kit-what goes in it? Make it fun for them and educational at the same time. Do it in a scavenger hunt type way, hiding the goods, and as they find them, have them describe the items, and their use.

It is always best err on the side of caution when you’re around horses. When creating a horse first aid kit, what goes in it could be as important as what is not in it. If you have the gauze pads to cover a wound, and nothing to hold them onto the area, such as tape, bandages or vetrap, then the gauze won’t do you much good. If you can stand there and hold those bandages on, that’s great, but most times, you won’t have that luxury, as fate has it, you’ll be by yourself when disaster strikes.

If you still have questions regarding your first aid kit, it’s best to consult your vet. He or she can make recommendations and maybe even give you some more ideas on what would be practical for your kit.

For more information about the kit illustrated to the left, Click Here

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The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is a high-spirited member of the Herding Group. Short in stature and moderately heavy boned, this breed can hold its own as an excellent cattle driver and with the speed and agility to keep up with the job. They have a long body (almost twice its height) and only weigh anywhere from 25 to 38 lbs, depending on the gender. The average height of the Cardigan is between ten and thirteen inches.

The temperament of the Cardigan Welsh Corgi can best be summed up as fun-loving, easy-going and friendly. They make the perfect pet for anyone that appreciates a mild-mannered dog in the home, but one that also enjoys vigorous games outside. They are easy to train and make excellent watchdogs. Cardigans are friendly towards other pets and humans, but reserved when strange dogs approach.

A Brief History Of The Cardigan Welsh Corgi

The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is one of the first breeds to arrive in the British Isles. Centuries ago these dogs were brought to Cardiganshire from central Europe. The breed has its roots from Wales, dating back to the Ancient times. They were used as cattle drovers. The dog’s exact derivation is not known, but experts suggest that the short-legged, English turn-spit dog was part of the bloodline (which is now extinct).

The breed was first used as a family guardian and protector. Some would be brought to assist hunters in the field. In time, farmers soon discovered that the Cardigan was a natural cattle driving dog, helping to keep the cattle moving by nipping at their heels while successfully dodging kicks.

Eventually the Crown lands were divided and fenced, thus eliminating the usefulness of the Cardigan Welsh Corgi. Some were still kept as loving companions but this did not stop the breed from coming close to extinction. To help keep the breed alive it was crossed with the brindle herder. The breeding efforts worked and the first Cardigan made its way to the United States in 1931, with AKC recognition in 1935.

Upkeep Requirements For The Cardigan Welsh Corgi

Although the Cardigan Welsh Corgi is a small breed, it needs a surprising amount of daily exercise. They have moderately high energy levels which are best met with a few brisk walks on the leash plus play sessions outside. Herding games are best, in addition to mental stimulation through dog training.

The Cardigan can withstand both hot or cool temperatures but is not meant to live outside. Like all devoted members of the Herding Group, this breed bonds tightly with the family and should sleep inside at night, with access to a safe, fenced-in yard during the daytime hours. Grooming requirements call for a brushing once each week to remove dead hairs.

Health Concerns

The average lifespan of the Cardigan Welsh Corgi is between twelve and fourteen years. The only major health concern that runs common in the breed is CHD. Minor health issues include degenerative myelopathy. Rarely seen in the breed is PRA and urinary stones. Veterinarians suggest that the Cardigan get specifically tested for DNA for PRA, hip, and eye problems.

Related posts:

1. Australian Cattle Dog (herding group)
2. Canaan Dog (Herding Group)
3. Beauceron (Herding Group)

The Chinese Crested Dog is an overly playful breed, always on the lookout for fun and games, yet as gentle as they come when sitting on your lap. They are devoted to their family members and always willing to please. The breed is also quite friendly when it comes to other pets and dogs in the house. Even strange people are seen as potential new buddies in the eyes of the Chinese Crested Dog.

A Brief History Of The Chinese Crested Dog

Although the area of origin of these adorable little dogs is said to be China, the exact beginnings of the breed are difficult to trace. Most hairless dogs are mutations that stem from various parts of the globe, more so in South America and Central America. However, the hairless Chinese Crested Dog shows some credible evidence of starting out with roots from Africa, then brought to the Chinese people.

Researchers claim that these roots go back to China at the turn of the 13th century. The dog ended up being seen in other countries when the Chinese is said to have carried the dogs with them on ships for use as rodent catchers. They were then traded to local merchants of other lands. Such trades were responsible for the dogs ending up in South Africa, Egypt, and Turkey.

The Chinese Crested Dog was depicted in paintings throughout Europe in the 1800s. In the late part of the 1800s a women named Ida Garrett, an American, had spread word of popularity about the breed. Soon, enthusiastic breeders made a commitment to continuing the bloodline and after 100 long years of effort, the Chinese Crested Dog made its way to the AKC, officially recognized in 1991.

Upkeep Requirements For The Chinese Crested Dog

Chinese Crested Dogs love to play outside but do not fare well in cold weather. Being so small, they can get all the exercise they need while running inside of the house. They make excellent watchdogs but their overly friendly personality may diminish this service a bit.

These dogs also love to jump and climb any object it can safely reach. For this reason you should have tight security so that they cannot escape. Grooming requirements call for regular trimmings of the head, neck, tail, and feet. Rubbing moisturizer on the hairless Chinese Crested Dog also helps keep the skin healthy. Consider sunblock as well when the dog is outside during sunny days.

Health Concerns

The average life span of the Chinese Crested Dog is between thirteen and fifteen years. Major health concerns that run common in the breed are lens luxation, PRA, and glaucoma. Minor issues include seizures, deafness, and patellar luxation. Rarely seen is Legg-Perthes. Veterinarians suggest that these dogs get tested for potential knee, eye, and hearing problems.

Related posts:

1. Chinese Shar-Pei
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3. Australian Cattle Dog (herding group)

The Canaan Dog is one of the most easily trainable breeds of the Herding Group. The look of the Canaan does not resemble any of the other herding dogs. They came from a completely different background, but shares all of the similar traits that make it a great herding dog. Medium in size, and athletic in movement, this breed is graceful, quick and agile in the field when working.

The temperament of the Canaan Dog makes it the perfect family pet. They are loving and playful around members of the household, with a never-ending need for affection. Around strangers, however, they become aloof, reserved, and ready to protect its family, making them excellent watchdogs. A natural guardian, the Canaan tends to bark more than other herding dogs.

A Brief History Of The Canaan Dog

The roots of this breed go back to the Ancient times in the land of Israel. The Canaan Dog evolved through many centuries of hardship. Researchers claim that the breed originally started out in Canaan, the biblical land. During these early times they were known as the Kelev Kanani, which means “Dog of Canaan”.

When the Romans came through Israel 2000 years ago and dispersed the people, these dogs were left to survive on their own means, living off the Negev Desert and the Sebulon Coastal Plain. Male puppies were captured by the Bedouins and were used to guard livestock. This went on for many years, making the breed an excellent herding dog and protector.

The existence of the breed today is due to the efforts of a woman named Dr. Rudolphina Menzel. She found these native feral dogs, captured them, and started a breeding program. These canines quickly made headway as trustworthy messengers, fearless sentry dogs, and routinely detected mines during World War II. In 1965, the United States saw its first Canaan dog, and in 1997, the AKC officially recognized the breed as a member of the Herding Group.

Upkeep Requirements For The Canaan Dog

Herding dogs tend to require lots of daily exercise and the Canaan breed is no different. They have moderately high energy levels that can be taken care off with several brisk walks on the leash each day, plus vigorous games and mental stimulation. They especially love herding exercises.

Canaan Dogs can withstand warm and cool temperatures, making it a candidate for living outdoors, but like all dogs that form a tight bond with its human family, the best arrangement is for the Canaan to sleep indoors at night, but have access to a fenced-in yard during the day. Grooming requirements for the breed’s short coat consists of only a light brushing once weekly to remove dead hairs.

Health Concerns

The average lifespan of the Canaan Dog is between twelve and thirteen years. This is one of the healthiest breeds alive today, with absolutely no major or minor health concerns. Veterinarians do suggest, however, that the Canaan get tested for potential hip problems.

Related posts:

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2. Bouvier des Flandres (Herding Group)
3. Beauceron (Herding Group)

The Cairn Terrier has all of the characteristics of a terrier as you would expect, but with extra sensitivity and affection. The Cairn is bold, inquisitive, scrappy, and a bit stubborn, while at the same time is responsive to the commands given and always looking to please its owners.

Cairn Terriers are wonderful around children and enjoy a little rough play now and again. In fact, they have such a feisty part of their personality that they will stand up to any aggressive dog, regardless of size. This makes them an excellent watchdog. Cairn dogs may also be reserved around strangers and other pets in the house due to their dominant personality.

A Brief History Of The Cairn Terrier

The Cairn Terrier breed has been around since the Middle ages, sometime during the 15th century. They were used successfully to hunt down badger, fox, and otter. The name “Cairn” is said to have been coined because the dogs were good at running otters out of the cairns (piles of stones used as memorials or landmarks).

These dogs could be found in several colors that ranged from gray to red to white. All of the color variations were considered Scotch Terriers as they were entered into the show ring. Only two dogs were labeled as part of the breed in 1873 – the Skye Terriers and the Dandie Dinmont.

In 1881, the group further divided into two more sections, the Hard-haired Terriers and the Skye Terriers. Eventually the Hard-haired Terriers were divided into the West Highland White, the Scotch, and of course the breed known today as the Cairn Terrier.

Although the breed went through a variety of names it was officially known as the Cairn in the early 1900s and became a highly popular breed in England during that time. They slowly made headway in the United States as well, and even featured in the movie, The Wizard of Oz.

Upkeep Requirements For The Cairn Terrier

Although this dog is quite small, it still needs a lot of daily exercise. A few long walks on the leash, in addition to vigorous games in the yard or around the house, will be plenty. They can tolerate moderate temperatures in both hot or cold climates, but not to the extreme.

The ideal living situation for the Cairn Terrier is to be able to play in a safe, fenced-in yard during the daytime hours and sleep inside with the family at night. Grooming requirements call for a weekly brushing to keep its wiry coat clean. A stripping is recommended once each year.

Health Concerns

The average lifespan for the Cairn Terrier is between twelve and fourteen years. There are no major health concerns in the breed. Minor health issues include CMO, glaucoma, and portacaval shunt. Rarely seen is GCL. Veterinarians suggest that the Cairn Terrier get specifically tested for GCL.

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1. Australian Terrier (Terrier Group)
2. Bedlington Terrier (Terrier Group)
3. Border Terrier (Terrier Group)

Each year, more than 10 million pets are lost. It can easily happen, no matter how much we all try to prevent it. When your pet is lost and if they do not have a collar or their collar gets lost, it can be very difficult for them to find their way home. According to the American Humane Association, only about 17% of lost dogs and 2% of lost cats ever find their owners. Nearly 20 million pets are euthanized each year because their owners cannot be located. If your pet is microchipped, there is a much greater chance that they will return to you safely. Microchips will last for your pet’s lifetime as there are no moving parts and nothing to replace.

A microchip is a small computer chip that has an identification number programmed into it. It is small enough to fit into a hypodermic needle. Once implanted, the I.D. number cannot be altered or removed. Once the chip is implanted, a layer of connective tissue forms around the chip preventing it from moving about.

Some people are hesitant to microchip their pet because they are afraid it will hurt. The procedure is simple, routine, and painless, and it doesn’t require any anesthesia. Your pet simply gets an injection just under the loose skin between the shoulder blades; it’s a lot like getting vaccinated. Most animals don’t react at all. Long term studies have shown that the microchip is very safe for your pets.

The chip contains an identification code that is unique to your pet. Most veterinarians and animal shelters have scanners that can read that identification code. Most use universal scanners that will read all brands of microchips.

There are two major manufacturers of microchips. One of the most popular is the AVID (American Veterinary Identification Devices) microchip. When you get an AVID microchip implanted in your dog, you will register with PETrac. Your veterinarian will have the application information to send in to PETrac. If you do not receive this information, or if your information such as address, phone number, or veterinarian changes, you may call PETrac directly at (800) 336-2843 to make the appropriate changes. Your dog will also receive a tag for his collar with his AVID microchip number prominently displayed. When your lost pet is found, they will be scanned and the information will be called in to PETrac. Their database will bring up your information and you will be notified immediately.

Another popular brand of microchip is the Schering-Plough HomeAgain microchip. Once your pet is microchipped with the Schering-Plough HomeAgain microchip, you will register with the American Kennel Club (AKC) Companion Animal Recovery (CAR) program. This program maintains a national database and is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Just as with AVID’s PETrac system, when your lost pet is found, they will be scanned, the number will be called into the AKC-CAR (1-800-252-7894) and you will be notified immediately. A microchip provides permanent identification unlike tags alone. When you register, you provide information to the AKC-CAR – your contact information, your veterinarian‘s information and an alternate contact. The program personnel will call the other numbers if you cannot be reached. Remember to contact the AKC-CAR if you any of the above information changes.

The system works! More than 1 ½ million pets are enrolled in the AKC Companion Animal Recovery program and 97% have HomeAgain microchips. 126,034 lost pets have been reunited with their owners thanks to this program which has a 100% success rate. Every found pet in its system has been identified.

The American Society for the prevention of cruelty to animals (ASPCA) also supports the use of microchip IDs for animal identification. They feel that it is the most reliable system for the recovery of lost pets.

Ideally, leashes, fences, and doors would be enough to keep your pet safe at home, but in the real world, accidents happen, and your pet depends on you to protect him or her against the things that could go wrong. With a little effort now, you can take a big step toward ensuring that your pet will be with you in the future.

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When choosing a cat to adopt from an animal shelter, there are several things that must be considered. Perhaps the most important thing to remember is that adopting a cat means the furry friend will most likely be around for a long while. In fact, a cat can easily live up to 20 years. Therefore, owning a cat isn’t just a small commitment in time. Once the decision is made to adopt a cat, there are four main things to look for to ensure the pet will be healthy and a good match for the family and its lifestyle.

Activity

When visiting a cat shelter to choose a new feline friend, the first thing to do is to simply observe all of the cats and kittens. While observing them, just to get an idea of how active they are and what type of attitude they have. If the cat is hunched in a corner or appears lethargic, it might not be too healthy. The last thing a new pet owner needs is to adopt a sick cat that will rack up the vet’s bills. Similarly, a pet owner looking to add a new cat along with the pets he or she already has doesn’t want to bring home a sick cat that will spread illness to the other cats.

Observing the cat while it is in its cage is helpful in determining the attitude of the cat. Some pet owners are looking for playful cats that will scamper about the house and chase and play with toys. On the other hand, some pet owners would like a cat that is a little more docile and that will spend hours cuddled up in the owner’s lap. Watching the cats in their cages will help determine which type of personality they have. Of course, a cat that is sleeping doesn’t provide much information about its personality, because all cats sleep the majority of their day away. For sleeping cats, it will be necessary to rouse them to get an idea of their unique personalities.

Look at the Cat

After the selection of potential adoptees has been narrowed down, the remaining cats should be looked at more closely. To do this, the attendant should be asked to release the cats from the cage, one at a time.

A good place to begin the physical examination is to look at the cat’s eyes. It is a good sign if the eyes are bright and clear. There also should be no discharge or running eyes, as both are signs of illness.

After inspecting the eyes, the nose should be looked examined. It should be clean and slightly moist. Again, there should be no discharge. The ears should also be clean. Ears that are extremely dirty are potentially contaminated with ear mites. Ear mites can be very difficult to get rid of and can easily spread to other cats at home.

Finally, the cat’s fur should be clean, shiny, and free of fleas. Fleas can be particularly bothersome to both the cat and to the owner. Furthermore, getting rid of fleas once they infest the home can be very difficult.

Listen to the Cat

Of those cats remaining, the next step is to listen to the cat. First, listen for signs of illness. A cat that coughs, sneezes, or sounds congested can be quite ill and should be avoided. Also, listen for sounds of contentment. A cat who is purring is likely happy and healthy. If the cat is meowing, the sound of the meow can often indicate trouble or contentment. A long, pleading meow could indicate the cat is ill. On the other hand, a playful meow could mean the cat is already developing a bond with its potential new owner!

After handling each cat, it is important to wash up with an antiseptic. That way, any illnesses one cat might have will not be spread to the other cats.

Play with the Cat

After finding a couple of healthy cats that appear to have the appropriate personality, it’s time to play! Get the last couple of cats out of their cages and set them on the floor. See how they interact with one another to get a feeling for the cat’s disposition. Seeing how the cat gets along with other cats is especially important for pet owners who already have a pet cat at home.

Also, take out a string or car keys and dangle them in front of the cat. The one that seems most alert and active is likely the better choice. Of course, both cats can be adopted if the decision is just too hard to make!

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2. When to Buy Versus Adopting a Cat
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The Bullmastiff is mistakenly thought of as one of Britain’s oldest dog breeds. However, it is actually the Mastiff that is the oldest breed. The Bullmastiff, on the other hand, is a fairly new dog breed that has recently developed. History does show a few crosses between these two dogs as early as the 1790s, but there is no direct evidence that suggests these two strains were used to breed on.

The definitive documentation of the Bullmastiff started towards the end of the 19th century. Their function at the time was to protect large estates from poachers that were causing huge problems with gamekeepers.

In order to stop the poachers and protect the gamekeepers’ livelihoods, Bullmastiff dogs were used for guarding and protection. These dogs were tough, courageous, and would wait quietly until a poacher arrived, then attack on command.

Before Bullmastiffs were created, the only dogs available for such protection abilities was the Bulldog and the regular Mastiff. The problem was that the Bulldog was not big enough and the Mastiff was not fast enough. By mixing these two breeds together, the Bullmastiff was created and made the perfect land guardian.

In time, many breeders decided to stop mixing the two strains and started breeding Bullmastiff dogs to be totally pure. The result was the ideal dog that is approximately 60% to 70% Mastiff and the rest Bulldog. The pure breeding attempt was successful and by the early 1920s the English Kennel Club officially recognized the Bullmastiff. The AKC followed with their official recognition of the breed in 1933.

Personality

The temperament of the average healthy Bullmastiff is one that is quiet, gentle, and very laid-back. In fact, these dogs do not arouse easily, but once startled and focused on an aggressor, they are fearless and can be quite a threat. Needless to say, Bullmastiff dogs are rated as one of the best dog breeds to have for watchdog and protection ability. They are great with children but it is highly suggested that they are raised with them instead of bringing home an adult Bullmastiff to the home with kids. These dogs can also be a bit aggressive towards strange dogs and other animals.

Taking Care Of Your Bullmastiff

Bullmastiff dogs are fairly large and need daily exercise to keep them in top shape. Like other large dogs, if there is not enough exercise and too much food, obesity can become a problem. However, a few long walks on the leash each day should do just fine. This is one dog that does not fare well in hot weather. They are generally indoor dogs and will need a large bed to stretch out in. Bullmastiffs also tend to drool a lot, as well as snore. Grooming is minimal, with the occasional brushing to remove dead hair.

Health Information

The average lifespan of a Bullmastiff is approximately 10 years. Veterinarians suggest that all Bullmastiff dogs get tested specifically for hip and elbow problems, as well as potential eye issues. Major health concerns that seem to be common among this breed are CHD, gastric torsion, and elbow dysplasia. Minor issues that may pop up, but are rare, are mast cell tumors, hemangiosarcoma, lymphosarcoma, SAS, hypothyroidism, and osteosarcoma.

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1. Bulldog
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3. Canaan Dog (Herding Group)

Do dogs have ESP? One famous case is that of Daisy, a stray mixed-breed. This case was also thoroughly checked out and authenticated.

Daisy charmed herself to a New York City family on vacation at a lake approximately thirty miles from the city. The family befriended her and gave her all of the food and love she demanded. After a short time, Daisy delivered four healthy puppies, which also received the love and care of the adopted family.

When the summer ended and the human family had to return to their home in New York, they gave Daisy and her puppies to a permanent resident neighbor. They felt that Daisy and her puppies would be happier in the freedom and space that the country offers, rather than their Manhattan apartment.

About three weeks after their return to the city, they heard a scratching at the apartment door. When they opened it, there was Daisy, carrying one of the puppies in her mouth. It was a happy reunion and nothing was too good for Daisy and her puppy.

The next day, Daisy was gone. The family scoured the neighborhood but with no success of finding Daisy. About five days later, Daisy came back with another puppy. This went on until she had her four puppies under the roof of her human family.

How in the world was she able to find her human family in an apartment she had never seen, in a city the size of New York? Nobody has a clue, and ESP would seem to be the only answer.

There are many, many more similar stories that are documented, including the one about the famous Shepherd named Prince. During World War I, Prince swam the English Channel to find his owner in one of the thousands of trenches in France. This story became very famous and received international acclaim.

There are also stories on record of dogs being able to sense their own danger. One such case involves an old hunting dog named Flash. Whenever Flash’s owner picked up the shotgun, Flash was out of the door and into the field before the gun was loaded. But the sad day came when the dog, old and decrepit, was to be “put out of his misery”. This time when the gun was picked up the dog disappeared under the house and was found in the farthest corner trembling with fear and unresponsive to commands or coaxing.

Another case involves a German Shepherd and his owner. The man took off in his private plane from an airport in Georgia to fly to New England and left his dog at home with his parents. Flying over Pennsylvania, the plane crashed. The dog’s owner was found by a farmer. He was alive but unconscious and taken to the hospital where he regained consciousness about twelve hours later.

Back home in Georgia, at the time of the crash, the dog disappeared under the house. With the flashlight he could be seen lying motionless and dazed and was unresponsive to commands or water or food. He remained in this state the whole time his owner was unconscious. When his owner regained consciousness, the dog came out from under the house, ate, and appeared perfectly normal.

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The Chihuahua is a popular favorite of the toy dog group among dog enthusiasts. This spicy little character of a dog is extremely devoted and loyal to its owner. Although reserved with strangers and a little aggressive towards other dogs, the Chihuahua can get along great with other indoor pets that you may have.

Not all Chihuahuas have the same bold temperament. Some are very intense and will have an attitude as if they can take on the world, others may be extremely shy and timid. Either way, all Chihuahuas are very protective of their owners and the rest of the family.

Upkeep And Maintenance

The Chihuahua is a very excitable dog that needs a bit of daily exercise. But the good news is that these little guys can get all of the vigorous physical activity they need from running room to room in a house or a small apartment. But do not neglect outdoor walks and play time. The Chihuahua loves to roam outside and explore.

In terms of living arrangements, the Chihuahua is an indoor dog and should not be kept outside. There is nothing wrong with having him explore the yard a couple of hours each day, but this should only be temporary. Chihuahuas absolutely hate cold temperatures and will run to seek out warmth and coziness.

Grooming is a minor concern if you’re the proud owner of a Chihuahua. Chihuahuas come in two types; short-haired and long-haired. Short-haired Chihuahuas need very little brushing, perhaps once every week or so. Long-haired Chihuahuas will need a brushing twice weekly.

Health Information

The Chihuahua has a longer lifespan than most dog breeds, living up to 20 years in some cases, with approximately 16 to 17 years being the norm for a healthy dog. Veterinarians suggest that owners of this dog breed get specific health tests for cardiac issues and knee problems.

Fortunately, there are no major health issues that Chihuahua dog breed owners need to worry about. However, minor concerns do exist but they are very rare, including: hypoglycemia, pulmonic stenosis, patellar luxation, and hydrocephalus. And one last common trait that many Chihuahuas display is called molera, which is a soft spot in the top of the skull that results from an incomplete fontanel closure.

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Bats are good neighbors to have around. Did you know that one little brown bat can consume as many as one thousand mosquitoes in an hour? Ecologically, bats are vitally important, but because of years of groundless human fear and persecution and disappearing habitat they are currently in alarming decline. You can help; by providing them with a bat house you will give a home and you will personally benefit from having many fewer yard and garden pests.

Bats are the primary predators of night-flying insects, and are essential for maintaining healthy ecosystems. But most important, as consumers of huge numbers of pests, they rank high among mankind’s most valuable allies. A single little brown bat can catch hundreds of mosquito-sized insects in an hour, while an average sized colony of big brown bats can protect local farmers from the costly attacks of 18 million root-worms and similar farm pests each and every summer. Many insects can hear bats up to 100 feet away and will avoid those areas occupied by bats.

Many people have serious misconceptions about bats:

• Bats are not blind. Most bats can see as well as humans
• Bats are not flying mice; they are not even remotely related to rodents
• Bats are not dirty, in fact like cats, bats spend an enormous amount of time grooming their fur, keeping it soft and silky
• Bats are not ugly. Most bats have very cute faces, some even resemble deer, rabbits, and little Chihuahuas
• Bats don’t get caught in peoples’ hair
• Bats do not chew into the attic into your house
• Bats don’t ‘carry’ rabies, however, they are capable of catching the disease just like any other mammal
• Bats don’t interfere with backyard birds. Birds and bats do not compete for food or space
• Bats will not be disturbed by pets or children

So, why not help these amazing creatures by providing bats with a nice bat house at your location?

A word of warning though, not all bat houses are built correctly. Short, squat houses tend not to attract bats, while longer, wider houses generally work very well.

There are a number of websites offering excellent bat house designs for do-it-yourselfers, but if you are like me, I prefer to buy something already made that can be installed immediately, otherwise the building project is likely to get delayed by other tasks.

I have researched a lot of online retailers and without a doubt, the largest selection is offered by Amazon. They have a huge variety, plus one easy to assemble kit. Click Here for more information.

Mounting Your Bat House

Bat houses should be mounted on buildings or poles. Houses mounted on trees or metal siding are seldom used. Wood, brick or stone buildings with proper solar exposure are excellent choices, and houses mounted under eaves with 6-10 hours of sun exposure, depending on your region, are often successful. Single-chamber houses work best when mounted on buildings.

Mounting two bat houses back-to-back on poles (with one facing north and the other south) is ideal. Place houses 3/4-inch apart and cover both with a galvanized metal roof to protect the center roosting space from rain. All bat houses should be mounted at least 12 feet above ground, and 15 to 20 feet is better. Bat houses should not be lit by bright lights.

Should I paint my bat house?

While it is not necessary to paint a bat house, doing so can often help in regulating the temperature inside the house. Bat houses in warmer areas, such as the southern United States, may benefit from light colored paint. Cooler areas, such as the northern U. S. and Canada, may benefit from a darker color to help absorb more warmth from the sun. Do not paint inside the house, as the bats need a rough natural surface to hang from when they are roosting during the day.

Protection From Predators

Houses mounted on the sides of buildings or on metal poles provide the best protection from predators. Metal predator guards may be helpful, especially on wooden poles. Bats may find bat houses more quickly if they are located along forest or water edges where bats tend to fly. However, they should be placed at least 20 to 25 feet from the nearest tree branches, wires or other potential perches for aerial predators.

Avoiding Wasps

Wasps can be a problem before bats fully occupy a house. Use of 3/4-inch roosting spaces reduces the risk of wasps. If nests accumulate, they should be removed in late winter or early spring before either wasps or bats return. Open-bottom houses greatly reduce problems with birds, mice, squirrels or parasites, and guano does not accumulate inside.

When should I put up my bat house?

Bat houses can be installed at any time of the year, but they are more likely to be used during their first summer if installed before the bats return in spring. If you are evicting a colony of bats from a building, a box should be mounted several weeks prior to the eviction.

Attracting Bats

Bats have to find new roosts on their own and putting up a bat house is the first step toward attracting them. Bats investigate new roosting opportunities while foraging at night, and they are expert at detecting crevices, cracks, nooks and crannies that offer shelter from the elements and predators. Bat houses installed on buildings or poles are easier for bats to locate, have greater occupancy rates and are occupied two and a half times faster than those mounted on trees.

Unlike domestic animals, bats are wild and free-ranging. Bats are a protected species and are considered public domain, which means that it is illegal to own, sell, or purchase bats. Catching and relocating bats to new areas is, in any case, highly unlikely to succeed. Bats have strong homing instincts, and once released into a bat house, will attempt to return to their former home area. Consequently, placing bats in a bat house is usually futile and is not recommended. If a bat house remains unoccupied after two full years, consider repositioning of modifying the house.

I put up a bat house, but still do not have any bats. What can I do?

Attracting a colony can take some time, and many different factors are involved in the process. The first consideration is the location of the house. Is it up high enough? Is it close enough to water? Are there adequate food sources nearby? The second consideration is temperature inside the house. If the average temperature is too hot or too cold or is inconsistent, bat colonies may not stay. By limiting or increasing the amount of sunlight a house receives in order to maintain a consistent warm temperature. Other factors that affect bat house occupation include the use of pesticides nearby, human activity, and lack of vegetation.

When do bats hibernate?

In most of North America, bats hibernate from late Fall until early Spring. They often seek out caves and abandoned mines, and will migrate from their current homes (buildings, bat houses, etc.) to warmer, more secure places. Bats in warmer climates, such as the southern United States, do not hibernate. Instead, they go into a state of torpor if outside temperatures approach 32 degrees Fahrenheit. Torpor is a state of inactivity in which the bats stay in their day roosts for extended periods of time to conserve energy until temperatures begin to rise.

Put Up a Bat House Pup Catcher

Maternity colonies that occupy bat houses sometimes encounter problems during the summer months. Baby bats need very warm temperatures in order to maintain their growth rate, however, bat houses occasionally overheat during the summer months, causing both pups and mother bats to fall out. Oftentimes, these bats in a weakened state from heat exhaustion and consequently die. The added warmth of the summer, coupled with the fact that the population in a bat house will double as the young are born and growing, can result in disastrous consequences for the colony.

These bats can be helped by installing a net below the bat house that enables the bats to grab on if they are falling and allow them to climb back to the house. When temperatures are extreme, the bats may also be able to move onto the net to cool or receive for more ventilation.

Please note that grounded bats should never be rescued with bare hands.

Materials Needed:

• 24″ length of nylon window screen or plastic mesh
• Two small lengths of scrap wood
• Staple gun and staples
• Zip ties
• Screws

The pup catcher must extend at least 24 inches below the opening of the bat house in order to prevent interference with bats exiting and entering the bat house. Cut the net so that it is the same width of your bat house and at least 24″ long. Cut two sections of wood the same width as your bat house. Staple one end of the length of screen to one of wood pieces (#1).

Create a pouch in the opposite end of the net by folding up a four inch section and using the using zip ties to hold the ends in place. Staple the back of the pouch to the second wood piece (#2). See close of up pouch below.

Use screws to mount both sections of wood to the pole or other surface on which the bat house is mounted.

Note: If nylon screen is used, guano may collect in the pouch requiring it to be gently hosed or cleaned out. The plastic mesh recommended above has holes large enough to allow most guano pellets to fall through or be naturally washed out with rain. The plastic mesh is also UV resistant.
(Special thanks to Stephanie Ann for providing the above photos.)

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Early training for service dogs destined to work in some field of scent detection generally involves a lot of socialization, followed with some basic obedience – and in some cases, a little agility.

Canine Detection Training centers first have prospective puppies go to carefully screened foster families with whom the pups will be raised until they are roughly 12 to 18 months of age. The primary role of these foster families (in addition to providing a loving home) is to socialize the dogs.

The families are obligated to take the puppy out at least three times a week to socialize it with all kinds of people and other dogs. Staff from the detection centers will check in with the foster homes once a month and take the puppies out themselves to test their public capabilities.

Interestingly, most of these dogs do not have to have much obedience training to start, or any at all. “We try to look at obedience training as an individual thing,” says Steven Sharp, staff member from the Auburn University’s Canine Detection Training Center (CDTC), located in Anniston, Alabama.

Steven goes on to say, “Some dogs require a little obedience, but too much obedience can take a lot of a dog’s independence away. We want the dog to be able to get out and away from the handler, guiding the handler to the scent.”

The agility training most detector dogs receive is not only for fun but also to develop the dog’s sense of balance, as well as accustom the dog to walking on uneven surfaces and high levels of platforms. For example, in an urban disaster situation, the dogs are called on to walk on uneven terrain. There will be wobbly bridges or removable objects they’ll need to cross.

Next, training to identify specific odors is taught using multiple sessions and lots of positive reinforcement. “We start with several infrequent, short periods of time for training,” Steven says. “As the dog progresses, we expand that time, always keeping it fun for the dog. Once the training isn’t fun and the dog isn’t enjoying itself, it stops trying. We want the dog to come to the training area to have fun.”

The detection training centers will use toys, food, a tug towel – whatever works – as the primary reinforcer for the dogs. “We like to let the dogs select their own, preferred reward,” Steven remarked, “And as a second reward, the handlers will use praise.”

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A spunky and outgoing member of the Toy Group, the Brussels Griffon is as bold and mischievous as they come. These dogs live life brimming with confidence and unlike many overly suspicious toy breeds, they tend to befriend new dogs quite fast. Known to be creative escape artists, the Brussels Griffon has a habit of climbing. You and your family will have a blast owning one of these breeds if you enjoy a small, entertaining and interactive dog, of which also makes a loud and vocally menacing watchdog.

A Brief History Of The Brussels Griffon

The history of the Brussels Griffon dates back to the 1800s with Belgium being the area of origin. The original function of these anxious little dogs were as companions and small rodent hunting. Today they still enjoy being the center of attention as companions to loving families around the world.

Researchers claim that the bloodline of the breed probably came from the Belgian street dog (known as the Griffon d’ Ecurie) and the Affenpinscher. These dogs are said to have been seen as a favorite among cab drivers in Brussels, because they were great at attracting new visitors and warding off potential thieves.

Sometime during the latter part of the 1800s these dogs were crossed with one of Holland’s favorite small breeds at the time – the Pug. You can easily see Pug characteristics in today’s Brussels Griffon from the shape of its head.

The breed was officially established enough to be shown at Belgian dog shows by the year 1880. Around the turn of the 1900s, the dog’s popularity had skyrocketed in Belgium and the nobility took notice. World War I caused a great decline in numbers, but after the war the Brussels Griffon slowly rose back to new heights in popularity around the world.

Upkeep Requirements For The Brussels Griffon

To own and take care of a Brussels Griffon means enjoying a clownish, outgoing, and vivacious toy dog. They can be stubborn and very active so daily exercise and stimulation is a must. Due to the dog’s small size they can get plenty of exercise by running around the house.

This breed cannot live outside, but if given the chance to play during moderate temperatures in a fenced-in yard it will have the time of its life. Grooming requirements for the Brussels Griffon consist of an occasional brushing, perhaps only once per week to remove dead hair.

Health Concerns

The average life span of the breed is between twelve and fifteen years. One of the healthiest breeds of the Toy Group, there are no major health concerns that run common, nor are there any minor issues that are regularly seen. On rare cases there have been patellar luxation, weak bladder, CHD, PRA, cataracts, and distichiasis. Veterinarians suggest that Brussels Griffon dogs get tested for potential eye and hip problems.

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The roots of the Chesapeake Bay Retriever’s is an amazing history that stems from two little Newfoundland puppies which were rescued from a shipwrecked brig, right off the coast of Maryland in the United States. This incident happened in 1807 and is quite an inspiring story.

Along with much of the ship’s cargo, these two puppies had their lives saved and were handed over to rescuers whom would take care of them. One puppy was black and the other was red. They were soon found to be highly skilled water retrievers. Once their abilities became popular, they were bred with local retrievers and other breed types, which are thought to be the Bloodhound, Irish Water Spaniel, and Newfoundland Dog.

In time, a very distinctive local breed started to emerge. The result was a dog that could swim through the icy waters of the Chesapeake Bay and retrieve duck time and time again. Even to this day, the Chesapeake Bay Retriever shows an innate ability to mark a spot where a bird has fallen and remember exactly how to get back to that spot, even from miles away.

Its reputation caught up with the dog breed far beyond the Chesapeake Bay area and by the year 1885, the Chesapeake Bay Retriever was officially recognized by the AKC. It has remained moderately popular ever since.

Personality

You probably already know by now that this dog is a swimmer and absolutely thrives on outdoor action and water. Chesapeake Bay Retriever’s are extremely independent, but also eager to learn new things. It can be very protective of its owners and reserved when around strangers. This makes the Chesapeake Bay Retriever a great watchdog.

Taking Care Of Your Chesapeake Bay Retriever

The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a fairly large and overly active dog that must have daily exercise. Obviously water games and retrieving is at the top of the list if you live near such an area. However, daily walks and fetching games will do just fine for any proud owner of a Chesapeake Bay Retriever. Grooming takes a bit of weekly brushing, due to the long, wavy coat of the animal. However, it seldom needs to be washed.

Health Information

Chesapeake Bay Retriever dogs have a lifespan of up to 14 years, with 11 to 12 being the average. They are extremely healthy dogs with only CHD and gastric torsion being major health concerns. Minor issues that may spring up are PRA and hypothyroidism.

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If you are looking for a dog breed that has the personality of a curious child, always on the lookout for fun, loves to run, hunt, scout and play – while at the same time is sensitive to your commands and makes an excellent watchdog – then the Brittany Spaniel is the perfect dog for you.

Independent by nature, the Brittany Spaniel makes an excellent house pet and absolutely loves children. Their energy levels are extremely high so these dogs are quite suited for individuals with an active lifestyle.

A Brief History Of The Brittany Spaniel

It was sometime during the mid 1800′s when French sportsmen made a cross between their local small land spaniels with that of English Setters. The goal was to create a dog that was best suited to their needs. Several of the offspring were born tailless and down the line their descendants were also tailless (many of them stub-tailed).

The offspring also became dogs that had amazing scent ability, which made them excellent woodcock hunters. These canines quickly became popular with the French gentry as well as the local poachers. Poachers loved them because were intensely obedient to the hunter and could point and retrieve like no other breed at the time.

It was the year 1907 when the very first Brittany Spaniel was registered in France. In 1925, the breed then made its way to the United States. It took some time for them to become accepted, for various reasons, one of which because hunters expected a hunting dog to have a long tail. But when given the chance to prove themselves, the Brittany Spaniel dogs quickly won the hearts of all hunters and dog enthusiasts alike.

Upkeep Requirements For The Brittany

The wonderful thing about owning a Brittany Spaniel is that the animal takes very little maintenance. However, exercise is heavily required to keep your Brittany happy and healthy. As mentioned in the beginning of this breed profile, this canine needs a lot of daily exercise. Without it, they become frustrated and may take that frustration out by digging and scratching, causing destruction around the house or yard.

For this reason alone it is clear that the Brittany Spaniel is not suited for small apartment living. Instead, they need to have plenty of open space to run and explore. These dogs can also live outdoors so long as the weather is not extreme. However, Brittany Spaniels are overly social so living inside with the family is preferred.

Health Concerns For the Brittany

The only major health issue that your Brittany Spaniel may face is CHD. Minor issues include hypothyroidism and epilepsy. Veterinarians suggest that all Brittany dogs get tested for hip and thyroid problems. The life span for this breed is in area of twelve to thirteen years – so long as adequate health and care is given to the Brittany.

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As you can probably tell by its name, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels have Spanish roots. These dogs are also said to be the reason why European Toy dogs existed in the first place.

People bred small spaniels with various Oriental Toy breeds and the results were small Tudor lapdogs, otherwise referred to as “comfort” spaniels. The wealthy actually use them as foot warmers and to attract fleas that were otherwise bothering the owner.

Toy Spaniels eventually became popular because it appealed to people of all ages. Sometime during the 1700s it is said that King Charles II was so taken by his Toy Spaniels that he was actually accused of ignoring important state affairs in order to spend time with his dogs.

These stories about the king and his dogs traveled so fast throughout town and other parts of the country that eventually everyone associated the Toy Spaniel with King Charles himself, thus causing the dog to become officially known as “Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Dogs”.

Soon after King Charles II passed away, the Duke of Marlborough was just as enthusiastic about this dog breed as King Charles II was. The Duke’s favorite was the red and white Toy Spaniel which was named after his estate. For generations to come, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel dogs graced the families of the wealthy.

In time the look of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel started to change. Eventually, more people started to prefer the look of the shorter-nosed Toy Spaniel. However, when a rich American named Roswell Elridge traveled to England and offered an enormous money prize for the best “pointed nosed” Spaniels, it sparked a huge interest back to the original look of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. They eventually became the most popular dog in England and was recognized by the AKC in 1996.

Personality

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is opinioned to be the all-around best house pet that a family could own. This dog is playful, sweet, quiet, and overly affectionate. It is an absolute joy to have around and is amiable towards other pets, dogs, and strangers. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels love to explore the outside and is very adaptable when being trained.

Taking Care Of Your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel dogs need a moderate amount of exercise on a daily basis. This can be accomplished with a few short walks or a romp through the yard. This is one breed that is not meant to live outside. As far as grooming is concerned, its long coat will need a thorough brushing at least every other day.

Health Information

The lifespan of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel can vary from 8 years on up to 15 years. Major health concerns that spring up are CHD, mitral valve insufficiency, and syringomelia. Minor health issues include entropion and patellar luxation.

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Frontier Airlines recently announced that customers can now travel with their small pets in the cabin of the aircraft for a $75 each-way pet fare. The new in-cabin pet policy applies to small dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters or small household birds. All pets must fit into a carrier that fits under the airplane seat and they must have proper health documentation in order to fly.

In addition to allowing small pets in the cabin, Frontier also accommodates larger pets as checked baggage. Pets weighing more than 20 pounds, who do not fit the pets-in-cabin requirements, may be checked for a $150 fee.

This is a good option. These fees could very probably work out less expensive than putting a pet in boarding kennels. Certainly worth telling you about. What do you think?

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The Briard is a highly intelligent and devoted member of the Herding Group. With a powerful build and a hight range from 22 to 27 inches, this breed is longer than it is tall. They have an overall handsome appearance, with a coat displaying long, wavy locks of hair. The weight of the Briard dog ranges from approximately 75 to 100 lbs for the male, and from 50 to 65 lbs for females.

The temperament of the Briard can best be described as faithful and devoted, always willing to please. The are highly intelligent and maintain a confident personality. This breed is friendly towards other types of pets in the house but extremely reserved and weary around strangers and other dogs, making them excellent watchdogs and family protectors.

A Brief History Of The Briard

The Briard has its roots from France, dating back to the 1300s. The original function of the breed was as a herding dog and a dependable guardian of livestock. It was part of four other French breeds, with the others being the Pyrenean, Beauceron, and the Picardy. Of these four breeds, it is the oldest French sheepdog, depicted in artwork dating back as far as the 8th century.

These dogs did not actually go by the name of Briard until well into the early 1800s. Some people referred to them as the Chien Berger de Brie, which means “Shepherd Dog of Brie”. The job of these early dogs were to protect herds as well as fight off (and win) against wolves if necessary. Human intruders were also subject to the same punishment when going up against a Briard dog when it was protecting its livestock.

After the French Revolution the breed was used less as a guard dog and more as a sheep herder. The dogs hit the show ring around 1900, and in 1897 the first breed standard was drawn up. A second breed standard replaced the original in 1909. The Briard made its way to the United States with Thomas Jefferson being one of the first owners of the breed.

Upkeep Requirements For The Briard

Like all members of the Herding Group, the Briard must have vigorous daily exercise. These requirements can be met with several brisk walks on the leash, plus long play sessions outdoors. They especially love to herd when given the chance and may attempt to herd small children if left unsupervised.

This breed can tolerate cool temperatures but does not handle hot climates very well. Briard dogs can live outdoors if necessary, but the ideal arrangement is to sleep indoors with the family at night with access to a safe, fenced-in yard during the day. Grooming requirements consist of a thorough brushing of its long coat three to four times weekly.

Health Concerns

The average lifespan of the Briard is between ten and twelve years. Major health concerns that run common in the breed are CHD and gastric torsion. Minor health issues include night blindness. Rarely seen in these dogs are heart problems and PRA. Veterinarians suggest that the Briard get specifically tested for cardiac, hip, and eye problems.

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2. Belgian Tervuren (Herding Group)
3. Bouvier des Flandres (Herding Group)

The Bouvier des Flandres is an adventurous and independent member of the Herding Group. With its fearless attitude and protective defenses, this dog makes an excellent watchdog. They were bred to perform a variety of functions and have both size and endurance to back it up. The Bouvier is of compact size, rugged in appearance, and enjoys the protection of a weatherproof coat.

The temperament of the Bouvier des Flandres can be summed up in two words – confident and bold. An all-natural guard dog, this breed has a dominant personality that can easily be trained by the right owner. They are protective of its family and will fight any battle against intruders. So long as the Bouvier gets daily exercise it stays calm and well-mannered inside the house. They are safe around children but reserved around other dogs and pets.

A Brief History Of The Bouvier des Flandres

Belgium is the original area from which this breed comes from, dating back to the 1600s. During this time period the Bouvier des Flandres was a big help in aiding cattle merchants and farmers with guarding and herding. Most of the work was done in the farmlands of the southwestern region of Flanders, as well as the French northern plains. In fact, the name bouvier is French, meaning “cowherd”.

These dogs were also efficient in a variety of other tasks, making them well-known farm dogs and dependable cattle drovers. Like all breeds where a variety of jobs are done, these working dogs came in several colors, sizes, and types. Although the make-up of the breed is not documented, the involved types are estimated to be a variety of spaniel breeds, the mastiff, and the sheepdog.

In 1912, the first breed standard was drawn up for the Bouvier, due to a growing interest from dog fanciers. However, their numbers diminished during World War I. It was the bloodline from one superior surviving Bouvier, a dog named Ch. Nic de Scottegem, which can be found in almost every living pedigree of the Bouvier de Flandres today.

Upkeep Requirements For The Bouvier des Flandres

This is one dog breed that has extremely high exercise requirements and must have the freedom to roam and play during the day. Forget about keeping the Bouvier all couped up in the house until you are ready to play with him. This will cause frustration and destructive behavior. Daily interaction, mixed with vigorous outside games, and the chance to herd will keep this dog happy.

The Bouvier des Flandres has low tolerance to warm temperatures but can stand cool weather due to its heavy coat. They can live outdoors during the winter months, but as with any family companion, it is best to keep the Bouvier inside at night with the rest of the family. Grooming requirements call for at least two weekly brushings to keep its thick coat clean, plus a professional shaping or clipping every eight to ten weeks.

Health Concerns

The average lifespan of the Bouvier des Flandres is between ten and twelve years. Major health concerns that run common in the breed are SAS, glaucoma, elbow dysplasia, and CHD. Minor health issues include hypothyroidism. Veterinarians suggest that the Bouvier get specifically tested for hip problems.

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Even before you suspect your cat or dog has picked up a flea, you should act proactively and start a flea protection program. In the case flea prevention and flea control, taking action before your pet becomes infected is always best.

There are a number of propitiatory flea treatment brands on the market, but I like to follow my veterinarian’s choice and he uses Frontline Flea Treatment. A couple of years ago we had a tiny, abandoned kitten turn up in our front yard. Her tail had been torn almost clean off her body—the wound it created was alive with maggots—and she was covered with fleas and tics.

My vet treated her with Frontline and told me that Frontline kills 100% of fleas within 12 hours of application, while ticks will die within 48 hours of contact with a treated pet. Each application lasts to protect your pet for a full month.

He sold me a pack of three treatments costing well over $50, but by the time these had run out I had already found that Amazon sells exactly the same product at a 42% savings. On his recommendation, I also switched my two Dalmatians from Advantix to Frontline. In his opinion Frontline flea protection lasts longer.

Frontline Features

• #1 veterinarian-recommended flea and tick protection
• Plus breaks the flea and tick life cycles to deliver continuous protection to you and your pet
• Proven protection. FRONTLINE Plus killed 100% of fleas within 12 hours of application
• Long lasting: continues to kill fleas and ticks all month long
• Kills all life stages of 4 major tick species
• Waterproof: effective even after swimming, bathing and grooming
• Approved for use on puppies and kittens 8 weeks of age and older and on breeding, pregnant or lactating cats and dogs

What Others Are Saying

Frontline is recommended as the best flea treatment by more veterinarians than any other brand. It also receives rave reviews from pet owners all over the internet with an average of 4.5 out of 5 from reviewers on Amazon.

Where Can Your Buy Frontline Flea Treatment?

You can buy Frontline from Amazon. I have researched prices extensively all over the internet and at the moment they do have the best deal. Most purchases from Amazon also mean that you probably won’t be charged any sales tax. Click here to view on Amazon

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Yesterday I published details of the 4PetsOnline drive to support small volunteer run charities with your online shopping dollars. Today I thought it would be a good idea to explain further about the charities I shall pick.

They won’t be big, what I term “fat-cat” charities that operate out of fancy buildings and pay their CEO’s exorbitant salaries. Take a look at my first choice the Pet Adoption Fund. They are a small organization, located in Canoga Park, California. They are an all volunteer organization with a 501 (c) status and rely solely on donations to keep operating.

There are thousands of little, no-kill pet rescue charities struggling to keep their doors open all over North America and I would welcome your suggestions. Please leave a comment at the bottom of this post telling me about a charity you would like to see added to the list.

Incidentally, if you are reading this and live in the San Fernando Valley, the Pet Adoption Fund is desperately in need of volunteers who will foster kittens, puppies, or timid dogs. If you’ve never been a foster parent…it is the most rewarding experience ever. They are also in need of volunteers over the age of 18 to walk their dogs of all sizes. If you are interested, please email Click here to send them an email

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2. 5 US Pet Charities Worth Supporting
3. 5 UK Pet & Animal Charities Worth Supporting

When 4PetsOnline was first established way back in May 2005 (yes, we’ve been around for 5+ years), it was a far cry both in appearance and content from what you see today. We’ve also come a long way in the industry recognition we’ve gained; pet related businesses now contact 4PetsOnline as a matter of course with any new developments, authors send pre-release copies of their pet publications to me hoping for a write-up, and I’m always receiving pet food samples for review.

That is all very well, but promoting big business does absolutely nothing to help the many hundreds of thousands of pets in need. I donate to pet related charities myself, but one of the original intentions of 4PetsOnline was to be a voice for abandoned and mistreated animals and pets.

We now consistently have a monthly readership of 15,000 — 17,000 individual readers and growing. The vast majority of you have pets which means your pet shopping dollars number among the estimated $36 billion (and growing) spent annually in the USA on pets.

4PetsOnline has recently set up alliances with the following companies:

• PetCareRx  Save up to 50% on all your pet care supplies
• Amazon  Shop any department, it doesn’t have to be for your pets!
• GreenDoggieBags  Save 10% on Eco-friendly Pet Waste Bags. Use code SAVE10 at checkout
• The Bird Shed  The backyard birder’s choice
• High Tech Pet  Featuring Electronic Pet Fences, Automatic Pet Doors, Radio Trainers, Bark Control Collars and many more innovative products
• The Saddle Zone  A discount dealer of saddles and tack
• Wizdog, LLC   Never worry about your dog’s bathroom needs again
• Checks Unlimited   Lots of pet related, high security personal checks
• Sittercity  All sorts of sitters from all over North America

Just click on the store names

Do your pet related shopping through those companies, using the links supplied on 4PetsOnline and at least 5% (I hope to increase this as support grows) of the commissions I receive will be donated to pet related charities. NOT the big charities with CEO’s earning mega-salaries, but small charities that survive through the work donated by volunteers and have no fat-cats at the top.

NOTE: Due to legislation, PetCare RX are unable to pay commission on prescription items

You HAVE to use the links provided otherwise you will not be recognized as coming from 4PetsOnline

Accountability:
A full accountability will be published regularly on this blog under an easy to find heading.

Charities I Plan To Contribute To:

The number of charities I shall contribute to will of course depend entirely upon the support I receive from visitors to 4PetsOnline.

• The first one will be the Pet Adoption Fund located in Canoga Park, California. Pet Adoption Fund is a non-profit organization, with a 501 (c) status. They rely solely on donations. I visited them many times while living in California and adopted a cat from them that had been abandoned in a builder’s yard. Their volunteers had dug her out, starving and severely dehydrated from beneath a building. ‘Pepper’ is my 9/11 cat because that’s the date on which I adopted her.

Related posts:

1. Charities This Blog Supports
2. 5 UK Pet & Animal Charities Worth Supporting
3. 5 US Pet Charities Worth Supporting
]]> http://4petsonline.com/pet-charities/feed/ 1 http://4petsonline.com/rawr/ http://4petsonline.com/rawr/#comments Sat, 24 Jul 2010 18:27:58 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=4096
• RAWR Raw Food Diet For Dogs — My Review
• Organic Dog Food
• Homemade Dog Food is the Healthiest Food For Your Dog
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Dogs on a raw food diet are naturally healthier, happier, and more energetic. They will face less health problems both in their present state and in the long run when compared to their kibble fed (or other dog diets) counterparts. However, buying raw food for dogs can be a challenge to some dog owners since there are several considerations to keep in mind.

First, when buying raw food for dogs, make sure the food is human grade food or fit for human consumption. This means it is the highest quality raw food available. Making sure that everything is fresh and safe to eat is one of the keys to success when following the raw food feeding model.

Next, make sure you buy organic fruits and vegetables. Organic fruits and vegetables are grown without pesticides or insecticides for any growth enhancers. This means the produce is all natural and good for your dog.

Fruits and vegetables which are not grown the organic way is not ideal because the traces of pesticides and chemicals used on non-organically raised produce can be ingested by your dog and lead to health problems. Even if you wash the fruit and vegetables, pesticides and chemicals are not completely removed from the product.

Be sure you purchase your meat from a reliable butcher who takes his product from a farm which does not use growth stimulants for their livestock. Like fruits and vegetables that are not grown in an organic manner, meats with growth stimulants is not an ideal raw food for dogs. These stimulants can give your dog health problems or create unnatural growth in your dog.

When buying raw food for dogs, be sure to shop in the right quantities, which is how much you can store giving your freezer or refrigerator space. Keep in mind that different foods have varying shelf lives. Fresh vegetables lasts about a week and frozen meats lasts three to six months in the freezer, depending on the kind of meat.

If you would like to store vegetables for longer periods of time, you can create a vegetable slosh in bulk and freeze it in the portions that you will be feeding your dog.

When feeding puppies, keep in mind that they will need a higher percentage of protein in their diet compared to fully grown dogs because they’re at a critical growth stage. Puppies will eat about four times a day in their first three months. Afterwards you can switch to fewer feedings.

Older or fully grown dogs will eat less often than puppies, but if they are very active, they will need more feedings or a higher percentage of protein as well. It is important to keep details like these in mind when buying raw food for dogs so that you know how much of each kind of food to buy.

For more details like these, a good place to get more information is from the ebook ‘Going Rawr! Dog Lovers Compendium.’ Its author, Maggie Rhines, shows you exactly how to choose raw food for dogs, as well as proper methods of storage and preparation.

It’s great for people who are just starting out their dogs on this diet and who would like to know more about how to implement it and how to avoid food contamination.

You can get much more information on Maggie Rhines’ book by clicking >>Here<<



Related posts:

1. RAWR Raw Food Diet For Dogs — My Review
2. Organic Dog Food
3. Homemade Dog Food is the Healthiest Food For Your Dog
]]> http://4petsonline.com/rawr/feed/ 1 http://4petsonline.com/dog-breeds-8/ http://4petsonline.com/dog-breeds-8/#comments Thu, 22 Jul 2010 14:26:07 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=4073
• Australian Terrier (Terrier Group)
• Cairn Terrier (Terrier Group)
• Bedlington Terrier (Terrier Group)
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The Border Terrier is rated as being one of the most amiable members of the Terrier Group. They love to stay busy and are highly intelligent, making them easy to train. These dogs are the perfect pet for a family that not only appreciates a well-mannered house dog, but also loves to roam the great outdoors and live an active lifestyle.

Border Terriers are great around children and extremely playful. With loads of affection for its owners, these dogs make great companions. And for any rodent problems you may have there is no better solution than having a Border Terrier hunting them down with focus and precision. Some of these dogs bark, others like to dig, but all personalities will fit just about any household.

A Brief History Of The Border Terrier

The Border Terrier is said to have originated from an area on the Cheviot Hills that bordered between England and Scotland. They have been around since the 1700s and the original function of these dogs were to chase away fox and other animals.

The Border Terrier is the smallest of the long-legged terriers and is quick on its feet. They needed to have enough natural speed to keep alongside a horse running at full speed, yet be small enough to fit through a fox hole. Their closest relative is the Dandie Dinmont. They used to be referred to as the Coquetdale Terrier.

In 1870, the name of the breed was officially coined as the Border Terrier and they participated in the gentry’s elegant foxhunts. Their job was to dispatch fox and proved to be quite successful. In the late 1870s the breed was shown for the first time and in 1930 was recognized by the AKC.

Upkeep Requirements For The Border Terrier

Although these little terriers have high energy levels, they can be quite happy with a few brisk walks each day and a romp around the yard if possible. Border Terriers are also fond of exploring off-leash so taking the dog out on a long nature hike is a stimulating activity for both dog and owner.

This breed has tolerance for moderately cool and hot temperatures but should not live outside. Ideally they should be allowed to play in the yard during the day and sleep inside at night with the rest of the family. Grooming requirements call for a weekly brushing to help keep its harsh coat free of dead hairs. Also, a quarterly stripping is recommended to keep the coat maintaining its neat outline.

Health Concerns

The average lifespan for the Border Terrier is between twelve and fifteen years. There are no major health concerns to worry about in the breed. The only minor health issue that is seen is patellar luxation. Rarely observed are heart defects and CHD. Veterinarians suggest that Border Terriers get tested for hip and cardiac problems.





Related posts:

1. Australian Terrier (Terrier Group)
2. Cairn Terrier (Terrier Group)
3. Bedlington Terrier (Terrier Group)
]]> http://4petsonline.com/dog-breeds-8/feed/ 1 http://4petsonline.com/cats-4/ http://4petsonline.com/cats-4/#comments Mon, 19 Jul 2010 21:06:41 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=4033
• Talking With Horses
• Top 5 Tips to Co-Exist Peacefully With Your Crazy Cat
• Is Cat Declawing Inhumane?
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Cats can be such persnickety creatures. Do you ever get the feeling that they just sort of put up with us humans? Sometimes, their behavior lends itself to certain status roles – cat as the royalty and humans as the court jester or servant. So when they start meowing, we are supposed to automatically know what they want! A cat’s meowing; cat calling or caterwauling can have countless meanings, sometimes more than one at the same time. All this vocalizing is the cat’s way of communicating or talking with us. Hissing and purring is also lumped into this vocal communication of cats. If we are to co-exist somewhat peacefully with these furry felines, we have to at least have a basic understanding of some of these vocalizations.

Perhaps one of the best ways for us humans to understand some of these cat vocalizations is to try and read their body language and behavior during their meowing communications. For instance, if you are standing in the kitchen and all of the sudden your cat starting rubbing on you and meowing take a look at its food and water bowls. Chances are that one or both just might be empty. Go ahead and fill the cat’s bowls with food and drink. If it stops rubbing and meowing and heads straight for the kitty kibble, then guess what? You have just interpreted one of the cat’s many meows!

What happens if your cat starts meowing and scratching, and scratching is not part of the cat’s normal behavior? Go take a look at its litter box. Cats do not like going potty in a dirty litter box. If the litter box looks like it needs to be cleaned, then do it and see if the cat continues the meowing and scratching behavior. If you interpreted the cat’s vocalizations correctly, it will have gone straight to the fresh, clean litter box to conduct a little “business.” If not, then you still have a problem on your hands trying to figure out what your cat is trying to tell you.

Purring is also part of the cat’s vocalization. And when paired with some meowing, you may just have a cat on your hands that is trying to suck up to you. Sometimes, it is for a food treat, a good ear scratching session or a little play time. So it is up to you, as the owner, to interpret that purring and try all three solutions. Chances are that your cat would appreciate all three! Cats are bold animals. If they wanted the ear scratching first, they would probably just head butt your hand until you commenced with the scratching.

The cat’s tail can also tell the tale when paired with meowing or some other vocalization. That twitching tail can mean anything from being happy to restless to fearful. For instance, if the cat’s tail is twitching furiously and accompanied by a meow, that could signal excitement, meaning they want to play. If you were holding them or petting them, it could mean to cease and desist – they’ve had enough! If a cat is feeling threatened, they may tuck their tail down low and emit a low growling type of sound or even hissing. The cat’s ears may also look pinned back as well.

If your cat is not usually the meowing fool, be certain that you are alert for any signs of changing behavior. Sometimes, when cats get sick, they try not to show their “weakness.” So when they start to meow suddenly, think back to any unusual behaviors. Signs of scratching, potty accidents or loss of appetite could have been a precursor to illness. The meowing is an indicator that they cannot take it anymore and need help. Big changes in a cat’s life could also be the key to your kitty’s sudden overabundance of vocalization. Have you moved recently? Was there a death in the family? Have you introduced another animal to your home? These can all precipitate the meowing, cat calls or caterwauling.

Of course, all that noise from your cat could simply indicate that they want to play or get your attention. For them, it is especially fun to do this while you, their ever-loving owners, are asleep in bed. Whatever you do, do not show any reaction. Giving them attention – whether positive or negative – just encourages them. Try to ignore them or close your bedroom door. If that doesn’t work, keep a water gun by your bed and shoot it with water every time they wake you up with their meowing. Cats hate getting wet!

Your furry family member possesses a multitude of meows and other vocalizations. You may never be able to interpret a lot of what they are communicating to you. However, the few ideas above should give you a good start in the right direction.



Related posts:

1. Talking With Horses
2. Top 5 Tips to Co-Exist Peacefully With Your Crazy Cat
3. Is Cat Declawing Inhumane?
]]> http://4petsonline.com/cats-4/feed/ 1 http://4petsonline.com/veterinarian/ http://4petsonline.com/veterinarian/#comments Sat, 17 Jul 2010 22:49:11 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=4009
• Shop Online and Support Pet Charities
• Nominate Your Favorite Vet!
• Dog Grooming Information Outlining What Is Involved?
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I‘m really delighted to be able announce a mammoth step forward for my 4PetsOnline pet blog. I’ve established a partnership with a professional veterinary consulting service, which means that beginning immediately you can get unlimited instant access to a fully qualified veterinarian online!

This is a HIGH QUALITY service run by veterinarians providing HIGH QUALITY medical information and helping pet lovers around the world. In fact, hundreds of thousands of pet owners have already used their services.

While setting up my partnership with them, I tested their level of service on five different occasions, asking them questions about dogs, cats, horses, pot-bellied pigs and parakeets. I was impressed with the quality and length of their replies to me. I then took both my questions and the replies I had received to my own veterinarian and he confirmed that in every case their advice was spot-on.

So … if you have a veterinary question involving any of your pets, please don’t hesitate. Take advantage of this service right now.

To Ask A Vet … Click Here Now!

 
CAUTION: If your pet has been involved in a serious accident, received life threatening injuries, ingested poison, suffered a snake bite, or is in any sort of situation that requires immediate “hands-on” veterinary care, please consult your own veterinarian immediately.



Related posts:

1. Shop Online and Support Pet Charities
2. Nominate Your Favorite Vet!
3. Dog Grooming Information Outlining What Is Involved?
]]> http://4petsonline.com/veterinarian/feed/ 1 http://4petsonline.com/dog-grooming/ http://4petsonline.com/dog-grooming/#comments Sat, 17 Jul 2010 19:02:07 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3981
• Do Your Part for Your Cat’s Proper Grooming
• Dog Grooming Information Outlining What Is Involved?
• Tips On How To Be A Trendy Dog
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Brushing a dog can be quite a challenge to some dog owners, especially when you own a long-haired breed. And let’s face it, most of us do not have the time or the interest in braiding, curling, poofing, styling, or designing our dog’s hair. This article will brush up on a few tips that will guide you in brushing your dog’s coat more effectively and with the least amount of effort.

Brushing Your Dog’s Hair

Regardless of your dog’s coat type, his hair needs to be brushed regularly. If you have a long- or medium-haired dog, the best way to maintain a clean and manageable coat is to keep it clipped, unless of course you enjoy styling your dog’s hair, like many Poodles or a Lhasa Apso dogs. Short-haired coats are easier to maintain and only needs to be brushed once or twice a week.

There are many types of brushes available for your dog’s grooming needs. For smooth coats, a regular rubber brush and bristle brush are often used to loosen and remove dirt and dead hair. For short coats, a pinhead brush gets rid of knots and mats, followed with a bristle brush to remove the dirt.

To brush a long-coated dog, start with a comb or a pinhead brush to detangle matted hair, then use a wide-toothed comb for the finishing touch. Dogs with silky-coats need to be combed or brushed using a pinhead brush, followed by a bristle brush to bring out the coat’s natural shine.

Other Types Of Brushes And Combs

A nylon bristle works great for your short or medium-haired pet, and a slicker brush easily removes mats and dead hair, which is ideal for everyday brushing. A shedding comb removes loose hair, and a massage brush gives your pet extra pampering. A soft pin slicker is specially designed for dogs with fine, silky, and sensitive skin.

A long-coat comb works best for small or toy breeds. An oblong pin brush is used on fine or coarse coats with undercoats, while a regular pin brush comes with wire pins to help detangle mats. A flea comb has fine teeth and a plastic handle to remove fleas and their eggs from your dog’s coat. Finally, a dematting rake removes dead and loose hair from innermost layer of the dog’s coat while leaving the outer coat untouched.

What About Odor Prevention?

Some of the new advanced dog brushes like the Zilo-Pet brush have bristles made of stainless-steel alloy that claims to neutralize molecules that cause odors on your dog’s coat.


Where Can You Buy Top Quality Grooming Tools At A Great Price?

• You can buy all sorts of grooming brushes, combs, clippers, etc. from Amazon. At the moment, with a purchase of $25 or more they include free shipping and you also won’t have to pay sales tax.

May I Also Recommend …

• How To Groom Your Dog At Home—Simple And Easy Grooming Steps That Will Help You Create A Loving Bond With Your Dog — Click Here

 

 




 

 

Related posts:

1. Do Your Part for Your Cat’s Proper Grooming
2. Dog Grooming Information Outlining What Is Involved?
3. Tips On How To Be A Trendy Dog
]]> http://4petsonline.com/dog-grooming/feed/ 1 http://4petsonline.com/raw-food-diet-for-dogs/ http://4petsonline.com/raw-food-diet-for-dogs/#comments Thu, 15 Jul 2010 16:33:08 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3958
• Buying Raw Food for Dogs
• Home Cooked Dog Food – Give Your Dog A Balanced Diet
• Avoid Table Scraps In Dogs Diet And Keep Yor Pet Healthy
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Long ago I discovered that when trying something for the first time, mistakes are an inevitable part of the learning process. But, in the case of drastically modifying your dog’s diet, what if your mistakes jeopardize your dog’s lives?

That’s precisely the predicament I faced when, after much research, I decided to take the plunge and put my two Dalmatians on a raw food diet. I already knew that this type of diet was much the best for my doggy family, but I was still somewhat apprehensive about switching them for fear of a reaction after years of eating pre-cooked foods.

Because of this, Maggie Rhines’ Going Rawr! Dog Lover’s Compendium was a real life saver for me. Her book went into enormous detail when it came to the issue of food safety. From learning how to buy fresh to food handling; from preparation and serving to how much to prepare; from what to prepare to how to transition adult dogs, and how to wean pups… the list goes on and on!

If you’re in any way considering putting your dog on the Raw Dog Food Diet, I recommend that you don’t do anything before reading this book. It will help you save money, save time and more importantly, it will give you the confidence to start your babies on this healthy diet.

You can get much more information on Maggie Rhines’ book by clicking >>Here<<

Related posts:

1. Buying Raw Food for Dogs
2. Home Cooked Dog Food – Give Your Dog A Balanced Diet
3. Avoid Table Scraps In Dogs Diet And Keep Yor Pet Healthy
]]> http://4petsonline.com/raw-food-diet-for-dogs/feed/ 1 http://4petsonline.com/nutramax-cosequin-ds-double-strength-chewable-tablets-reviewed/ http://4petsonline.com/nutramax-cosequin-ds-double-strength-chewable-tablets-reviewed/#comments Wed, 14 Jul 2010 19:45:21 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3877
• Cosequin DS Is The Joint Care Medication For Animals.
• Nutramax Denosyl SAMe: The Brilliant Liver Supplement For Cats.
• Using Safe Cat Food Can Double Your Cats Life
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Cosequin is especially useful for any dog that may be experiencing joint pain or discomfort. It is a patented, scientifically researched nutritional supplement dispensed by thousands of veterinarians to help dogs maintain healthy joints. As dogs age, it is common for their joints to become less flexible which impacts their mobility and quality of life. You may have noticed that your dog has difficulty walking up stairs or jumping on the bed. While he used to be eager to play, now he is content to rest. Even at younger ages some dogs are subject to joint health concerns which affect flexibility and mobility.

I have used this product for numerous years. It was very first recommended by my vet for my Dalmatian that was 12 at the time and she lived to be 17½. This product helped her enormously and I saw results in just two or three weeks. About six years ago I adopted a second Dalmatian that had been badly neglected and mistreated and her joints were in extremely poor condition. Again, my veterinarian suggested Nutramax Cosequin DS and told me he considered it to be the greatest product of its kind bar none. He explained that the ingredients are absorbed into the body at a a much greater percentage than inferior pills sold in pet stores.

What You Get …

• #1 Veterinarian Recommended Brand
• Original Researched Brand
• Double Strength Chewable Tablets contain 500 mg of glucosamine and 400 mg of chondroitin
• Absolutely no reported side effects

Cosequin DS certainly isn’t cheap, especially if purchased through a vet, but I quickly discovered that Amazon sells the identical product, manufactured by Nutramax, and I was able to save almost 20% on what I paid my vet. Amazon also offers Free Supersaver Shipping (be sure to select it) AND there’s no sales tax.



Poppy and Tansy - My 2 Cosequin Marvels

Cosequin plays an important role in maintaining optimal joint function. Healthy articular (joint) cartilage is crucial to joint utility. Cosequin helps support cartilage production and protect existing cartilage from breakdown. Healthy cartilage provides cushioning which helps protect a pet’s joints while exercising.

Cosequin is the only glucosamine/chondroitin sulfate supplement that has been shown safe, effective, and bioavailable in peer-reviewed, published, controlled, U.S. veterinary studies. Cosequin is manufactured following standards similar to those practiced by the pharmaceutical industry.

What Others Are Saying:
Nutramax Cosequin DS receives rave reviews from customers throughout the Internet with an average of 5 out of 5 from reviewers on Amazon and the Nutramax site itself.

• There was a marked difference in our lab’s activity level within the first two weeks. Currently, he plays runs, and jumps with no pain. This product worked wonders for our dog.
• …. much more like his old self. running and playing with the younder one. (and us) I recommend.
• My dog thinks of them as treats and gobbles them right down so for anyone else if giving your dog a pill is a problem these should go right down!
• My dog’s veterinarian trusts this brand and that is enough for me to trust it too.

The best place for many, many more reviews from people who actually use Nutramax Cosequin is Amazon. Click Here to read more.

Any Complaints?
None that I was able to find and I spent an entire morning scouring the Internet before writing this review.

Where Can You Buy Nutramax Cosequin DS?
You can buy this product from Amazon. At the moment they include free shipping and when I have discovered when comparing prices with other online merchants, Amazon do currently have the best deal especially with the free shipping option. Click here to view on Amazon.

Nutramax Cosequin is recommended and dispensed by many thousands of veterinarians. I highly recommend it too!

Related posts:

1. Cosequin DS Is The Joint Care Medication For Animals.
2. Nutramax Denosyl SAMe: The Brilliant Liver Supplement For Cats.
3. Using Safe Cat Food Can Double Your Cats Life
]]> http://4petsonline.com/nutramax-cosequin-ds-double-strength-chewable-tablets-reviewed/feed/ 2 http://4petsonline.com/dog-breeds-14/ http://4petsonline.com/dog-breeds-14/#comments Tue, 13 Jul 2010 16:45:04 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=4374
• Beagle
• Bullmastiff
• Boston Terrier (Terrier group)
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The Bulldog is one of those breeds that carries a mean looking facial expression, but is actually a delight to have as a pet. This dog was originally bred to attack bulls, literally. History has it that these ferocious little guys used to attack and bite the nose of large bulls in the ring for entertainment purposes. Luckily today, the Bulldog is just an everyday house pet.

Despite its angry looking face, these dogs are extremely amiable and mellow. The Bulldog is well behaved around children and tends to thrive on pleasing its owners. Although he can be protective of its owner and a little aggressive towards strange dogs, this breed makes a great family companion and will get along just fine with other pets in the home.

Upkeep And Maintenance

When it comes to upkeep and maintenance of the Bulldog, moderate exercise should be given on a daily basis, such as a brisk walk through the park at least once or twice daily. This is definitely not the type of dog that is made for running. The Bulldog is quite docile and tends to prefer a slower pace.

Although the Bulldog can live both indoors and outdoors, it is recommended that he remain inside with the family as much as possible. These dogs cannot stand hot weather and are not good with water. In fact, Bulldogs do not know how to swim.

Grooming the Bulldog takes a little extra care, but only around the face wrinkles and other folds located around the tail. These areas should be cleaned moderately on a daily basis. Other than that, a light brushing over the rest of the coat, once or twice weekly, is all that is needed.

Health Information

There are some major health concerns that you need to be aware of when owning a Bulldog. They include stenotic nares, shoulder luxation, ventricular septal defects, CHD, internalized tail, and elongated soft palate. Occasionally you might come across urethral prolapse and vaginal hyperplasia.

The lifespan of the Bulldog can reach up to 12 years, sometimes longer. Specific health tests that are recommended by veterinarians include testing for elbow problems, hip dysplasia, need dysplasia, and potential eye problems. Also, wheezing, snoring, and lots of drool is typical with every Bulldog.


Related posts:

1. Beagle
2. Bullmastiff
3. Boston Terrier (Terrier group)
]]> http://4petsonline.com/dog-breeds-14/feed/ 0 http://4petsonline.com/dog-breeds-13/ http://4petsonline.com/dog-breeds-13/#comments Tue, 13 Jul 2010 16:06:53 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=4369
• American Staffordshire Terrier (Terrier Group)
• Bedlington Terrier (Terrier Group)
• Boston Terrier (Terrier group)
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Dog fighting and bull baiting were considered to be a leading form of entertainment throughout Europe in the past. Owners of these warrior dogs were in a constant state of breeding different strains in order to produce increasingly better and stronger fighting dogs.

Sometime during the early 1800s, there was a cross between the old English Terrier and the Bulldog. The result was a dog which was known as the “Bull and Terrier”. Soon enough, the Spanish Pointer was added to the mix in order to give more size to the animal.

The final result was a strong, agile, and tenacious dog that fought its way through the pits with total domination. These Bull and Terrier dogs became increasingly popular at fighting exhibitions but were never adored like other breeds because of their association with “lower society”.

Eventually, all dogfighting was abolished and enthusiasts of the Bull and Terrier started to compete them with other dogs for show and appearance. Sometime during the decade of the 1860s, a man named James Hinks crossed the Bull and Terrier with Dalmations. This created a strain of all white dogs which became known as the Bull Terrier.

This strain of all white Bull Terriers had much success in the ring and quickly attracted the attention of more and more people. They eventually somewhat of a fashionable canine companion for men who wanted to have a masculine, rugged, and good-looking dog by their side.

Through additional breeding, the Bull Terrier’s distinctive head shape started to emerge. Sometime during the early 1900s, the all white strain had other colors incorporated into it by being crossed with Staffordshire Bull Terriers. At first this practice was rejected by most Bull Terrier fans but finally gained its own status as its distinctive breed by the AKC in 1936.

Personality

Three words can easily sum up the personality and temperament of the Bull Terrier: assertive, comical, and exuberant. These dogs have extremely high energy levels and are considered to be a bit on the mischievous side, like that of a cat.

A bit stubborn, the Bull Terrier sometimes prefers to see things his own way which can lead to problems with training. However, with enough time and the right attitude, these dogs can be trained to be excellent watched dogs with the fighting ability to protect its family should a physical confrontation be warranted. But never forget, regardless of its tough-guy image, Bull Terriers are sweet natured and devoted to its family.

Taking Care Of Your Bull Terrier

Bull Terrier dogs must be entertained in order for them to remain happy. Physical and mental stimulation is required every day through vigorous walks on the leash and fun games to play. This dog has moderate tolerance to cold and heat which makes it suitable for staying outdoors during the daytime hours, but should be kept inside at night with the family. Grooming is minimal due to its short coat. A weekly brushing to remove dead hair is all that is needed.

Health Information

The average lifespan of a healthy Bull Terrier is between 12 and 15 years. There are a few major health concerns that need to be looked after, including kidney problems and deafness. Minor health issues include allergies, compulsive behavior, and heart problems. Occasionally seen is patellar luxation, but this is extremely rare with the Bull Terrier.


Related posts:

1. American Staffordshire Terrier (Terrier Group)
2. Bedlington Terrier (Terrier Group)
3. Boston Terrier (Terrier group)
]]> http://4petsonline.com/dog-breeds-13/feed/ 0 http://4petsonline.com/dog-breeds-7/ http://4petsonline.com/dog-breeds-7/#comments Mon, 12 Jul 2010 20:45:11 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3862
• Australian Terrier (Terrier Group)
• Bedlington Terrier (Terrier Group)
• Cairn Terrier (Terrier Group)
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The Black Russian Terrier can be summed up in three words: bold, confident and affectionate. These courageous canines are considered to be one of the top choices among families that want a loving house pet that can also protect them with excellent guard dog abilities. In fact, Black Russian Terrier dogs need constant human interaction to keep them happy. They also make wonderful playmates with children.

A Brief History Of The Black Russian Terrier

A late member of the dog society, Black Russian Terriers originated from the Soviet Union during the 1950s. Just a decade earlier, the Russians were in a serious need to obtain working dogs to have trained for use in the military. They imported dozens of breeds from various countries to create the desired working dog.

The first generation of Black Russian Terriers were bred from Roy, an impressive Giant Schnauzer, who was bred with females from several breeds. The most successful came from crosses with the Rottweiler, Airedale Terrier, and the Moscow Water Dog. Each one was all black in color and the best of the bunch were bred amongst themselves.

By the year 1957, the second and third generations of puppies were sent to various family breeding programs. The goal now of the breeders was to keep improving the dog’s versatility as a working dog, but to also improve conformation. Black Russian Terriers were used to find wounded soldiers, pull sledges, detect explosives, and many more tasks for the military. They served in both Bosnia and Afghanistan missions.

Although a breed standard was drawn up in 1968, it wasn’t until 1984 that the international FCI recognized the breed. As more and more Black Russian Terrier breeders started to relocated to various parts of the world, the dog’s popularity took off. In 2001, the dog was recognized by the AKC as a member of the Miscellaneous class then moved to the Working Group in 2004.

Upkeep Requirements For The Black Russian Terrier

Black Russian Terriers need as much social interaction with its family members as it does physical exercise. The breed has an inherent need to work, as it’s history shows us, so daily activities are a must. To help facilitate the dog’s need for action, ongoing obedience training or agility training is recommended.

Highly affectionate and calm around the house, this breed can be trusted around small children and does not bark much. In fact, the Black Russian Terrier is one of the quietest dogs we know of today. They can live outside but it’s best to allow them to sleep indoors at night. Grooming requirements call for a thorough brushing twice per week and a major trim about every six to seven months.

Health Concerns

Black Russian Terrier dogs have an average life span of ten to eleven years. The only major health concern that runs common in the breed is CHD, with elbow dysplasia as a minor issue. Rarely seen is dwarfism and PRA. Veterinarians suggest that the breed get specifically tested for eye, hip and elbow problems.

Related posts:

1. Australian Terrier (Terrier Group)
2. Bedlington Terrier (Terrier Group)
3. Cairn Terrier (Terrier Group)
]]> http://4petsonline.com/dog-breeds-7/feed/ 1 http://4petsonline.com/tortoise/ http://4petsonline.com/tortoise/#comments Mon, 12 Jul 2010 16:21:59 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3854



It is an unusual romance, to say the least. He is made of flesh, blood and shell while she is constructed entirely out of plastic.

But after years of heartache, Timmy the tortoise seems to have found some sort of comfort by teaming up with Tanya the plastic toy tortoise.

Timmy, a Hermann’s tortoise (Testudo hermanni), appears to dote on Tanya night and day since the pair were brought together by keepers at the sanctuary where he lives after he was “bullied” by other real tortoises.

The sprightly 60-year-old fetches her food (and does not seem to mind that she does not eat it) and nuzzles his head against hers. He will not go to bed unless she is put into his hut before him.

Timmy arrived at the Tortoise Garden sanctuary in St Austell, Cornwall, three years ago when his owners emigrated to New Zealand. Staff tried to introduce him to other tortoises but he did not get on with them.

The sanctuary’s owner, Joy Bloor, said: “I tried introducing him to other tortoises but they don’t seem to like him and bully and fight with him. I put the plastic toy in his pen with him and now they are inseparable.

“He nuzzles and kisses her, moves her around and pushes lettuce towards her. He plays with her every day. If I want him to go into his hut at night time I have to put Tanya in there first, otherwise he won’t go.”

The lack of response does not seem to bother Timmy. “Tanya’s only a third of the size of him but he doesn’t seem to mind,” Bloor said. “He’s much happier when it’s just the two of them.”

Over the years the sanctuary has looked after thousands of unwanted, abandoned, injured and illegally imported tortoises. Set up by Bloor and husband, Geoff, 20 years ago, it currently cares for 450 tortoises from 15 species in 60 pens.

From Steven Morris, Guardian.co.uk

No related posts.

]]> http://4petsonline.com/tortoise/feed/ 1 http://4petsonline.com/top-5-cat-ailments-to-beware-of/ http://4petsonline.com/top-5-cat-ailments-to-beware-of/#comments Sat, 10 Jul 2010 16:43:43 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3847
• Important Components Of Diabetic Dog Diets
• Cat Food -The Dangerous Ingredients No Cat Food Should Contain
• Diabetic Dogs: Keeping The Disorder Under Control
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As a cat owner, your first responsibility is to keep your pet healthy. However, even with balanced nutrition and a good amount of love and attention, cats can still get sick. Learn about the most common ailments that affect cats so you can try to prevent them or cure them quickly with the proper medical care when you first spot the symptoms.

Fleas

Although cats and dogs can live with fleas, flea infestations should be controlled for several reasons. The most common flea, the cat flea (Ctenocephalides felis) may carry the Dipylidium caninum tapeworm larvae. If cats eat fleas during grooming, they may become infested with these tapeworms.

Fleas also could transmit other infectious agents. If kittens are exposed to fleas, they may become anemic. Cats can also develop an allergy to flea bites, resulting in excessive scratching or possibly skin disease. Finally, humans are also susceptive to itchy flea bites, usually on the ankles.

You may suspect your cat has fleas if he seems particularly itchy or you see bites on human members of the household. To check if your cat has fleas, groom him over a sheet of white paper. Look for a few fleas caught in the comb’s teeth or flea dirt on the paper. Flea dirt is actually excrement of undigested cat blood, and appears black and comma shaped. If you place it on damp cotton wool, the flea dirt dissolves into bloody streaks.

To control fleas, all mature fleas must be killed and reinfestation prevented. Many commercial products are available both to kill adult fleas and remove fleas from the environment. Ask your vet for specific recommendations.

Hairballs

When cats cannot digest hair and food debris, they regurgitate hairballs. Hairballs are formed either at the back of the throat or in the small intestines. Hairballs not only sound disgusting while your cat is producing them, but they also make an unsightly mess on your carpets and floors.

The simplest method of hairball prevention is grooming your cat to remove excess hair. The next step involves many products already on the market to prevent hairball build-up such as oils, treats, and diets. If your cat vomits frequently and the problem isn’t resolved with regular brushings, you should consult with the veterinarian to be certain that a more serious problem is not the cause.

Overactive thyroid

Overactive thyroid, or hyperthyroidism, is a condition where the thyroid gland becomes enlarged and produces excess amount of thyroid hormone. The condition is often provoked by a benign tumor on one or both lobes of the thyroid gland. The good news is that thyroid tumors have only a 2-5% chance of malignancy.

Symptoms of an overactive thyroid include: increased appetite or thirst, unexplained weight loss (particularly muscle mass), nervousness or irritability, frequent vomiting, lethargy and weakness, diarrhea, or a coat that looked ungroomed. A cat with the condition may not present every symptom, but the presence of two or more should prompt a visit to the veterinarian’s office.

At the vet’s, your cat will be given a physical exam. If she notices enlarged glands, a CBC (blood panel) and a thyroid-specific test can make the diagnosis more conclusive. There are three treatments that offer a good chance for your cat’s full recovery: anti-thyroid medication, surgery, and radioiodine treatment. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, so you should learn more about the disease and its treatments and discuss your options with the veterinarian before making a decision.

Diabetes

Feline Diabetes can affect cats of any age, but is most common in older, obese cats—typically males. There are two types of diabetes. Type 1 is caused by insufficient insulin production while Type 2 results from a body’s inability to handle insulin effectively. Another type of diabetes, secondary diabetes, occurs as a side effect of drugs or diseases that impair the natural secretion of insulin or its effects in the body.

The symptoms of feline diabetes include vomiting, dehydration, weakness and loss of appetite, increased thirst and urination, weight loss, breathing abnormalities, and an unkempt-looking coat. If your cat has any or several of these symptoms, take him to the vet. The vet will test for blood sugar levels and sugar levels in the urine. Doing both tests rules out an increased blood sugar level due to the stress of the office visit.

If your cat is diagnosed with diabetes, it is usually treated through one or a combination of five methods: diet and weight control, insulin injections, oral medications, monitoring glucose and insulin levels, and nutrient and botanical supplements. Each method of treatments has unique benefits and drawbacks, so be sure to decide on a treatment plan with your veterinarian.

Feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD)

This disease is a painful inflammation of the lower urinary tract that has the potential to be fatal. Feline lower urinary tract disease has a number of causes from decreased water intake and urine retention to viruses, bacteria, or diet. Symptoms that your cat may have FLUTD include inappropriate or difficult and frequent urination, appetite loss, listlessness, blood in the urine, or frequent licking of the genitals.

Vet treatment for FLUTD can include catheterization, fluid therapy, antibiotics, or even (rarely) surgery. At home, cat owners are often encouraged to change their pet’s diet and style of feeding (more frequent, smaller meals). It is also important for your cat to drink plenty of water.

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1. Important Components Of Diabetic Dog Diets
2. Cat Food -The Dangerous Ingredients No Cat Food Should Contain
3. Diabetic Dogs: Keeping The Disorder Under Control
]]> http://4petsonline.com/top-5-cat-ailments-to-beware-of/feed/ 0 http://4petsonline.com/did-you-know-dogs-love-avocados/ http://4petsonline.com/did-you-know-dogs-love-avocados/#comments Sat, 10 Jul 2010 16:22:13 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3840
• Avocados Are A Healthy Fruit For All Dogs
• A Happy Dog Will Live and Love Longer
• The Kids Will Love Your Dog’s Halloween Costume!
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Most dogs love avocados. They taste good, and they are an excellent source of fat. Fat is responsible for providing dogs with extra amount of energy and gives them healthy skin as well as an extra glow in their coat.

Strangely enough, it was the dogs themselves who led us to the idea of using the avocado as a supplement to the canine diet. It seems that avocado growers’ pet dogs were competing with the growers for any fallen fruit. The growers became curious and decided to compare the nutrients that this amazing fruit contained with those needed by canines.

According to a Veterinary professor at Iowa State University, this fruit enhances hair quality as well as skin tone, with which avocado growers have reported in their dogs is most likely due to the amount of linoleic acid of the fruit when added to the dog’s diet.

Of course, this fruit alone could not be recommended as the only nutrient source for dogs. But an avocado, in small quantities as a supplement, might be helpful if adequate amount of fat were not available from other sources.

A dog’s requirement of fat depends mostly on the amount of activity he engages in. For instance, an active working dog needs up to twenty percent fat in his diet, while the average household dog that walks a few blocks everyday needs only five to eight percent of fat in his diet. The very thin dog should get a diet rich in fat until his weight and health improve. The pregnant and nursing female dog also needs greater amounts of fat in her diet.

The majority of canine canned foods contain adequate fat to satisfy the need of an average household dog. However, if the dog is fed a diet strictly of dry meal, it might be moistened with additional sources of fat.

Avocados are an excellent source of fat for this purpose. And for canines that get most of their fat from canned foods, this tasty fruit also serves as an occasional treat. Avocados might be alternated with other occasional food supplements to add variety to the dog’s regular diet. Simply put, dogs love avocados and they are good for them!

Word Of Warning: Documented evidence suggests that some dogs, as well as other domestic animals like cats and cattle, can be severely harmed and prove fatal when they eat the avocado pit, skin, leaves, and bark of the avocado tree. Therefore, when supplementing your dog’s diet with avocados, make sure to only give him the meat of the fruit.

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1. Avocados Are A Healthy Fruit For All Dogs
2. A Happy Dog Will Live and Love Longer
3. The Kids Will Love Your Dog’s Halloween Costume!
]]> http://4petsonline.com/did-you-know-dogs-love-avocados/feed/ 1 http://4petsonline.com/cats-3/ http://4petsonline.com/cats-3/#comments Fri, 09 Jul 2010 19:44:45 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3827
• Choosing Dog Flea Medicine
• Why Do Cats Come To Visit My Two Spayed Female Cats?
• Treating a Dog For Dehydration
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Many pet owners dread these words, “Give your cat one of these pills twice a day.” Any pet owner knows the frustration of forcing a pill down the throat of a cat who does not feel well and who is not a willing participant. Before you don your protective armor to medicate your cat, try these easy tricks to get your kitty to take medicine.

Pet owners can agree that giving a cat medicine is not their favorite job in the world. Many times, you end up with bite marks or bleeding from little claws. There are some easy ways to medicate your cat that will help you administer the medication. Giving your cat medicine properly can also help reduce stress in your cat.

If you are giving your cat a pill, there are a few tricks to remember. Following these simple and easy tips will help make medicine time for you and your cat a breeze.

Oral Pills and Drops: The first thing to do is to follow your vet’s instructions. Most oral medications should be given with food or water. Make sure that your kitty has access to both of these immediately following. The next thing to remember is that a cat that is not stressed will be easier to medicate. Try to give your cat his or her medicine when he or she is relaxed. Do not make medicine time a chasing game. If your cat knows what is coming, he or she is likely to run or hide. Comfort your kitty by giving loving pats and by sitting in a quiet room. If you have to do it alone, cradle your cat under one arm and take the other hand and gently press the sides of your cat’s mouth with your thumb and forefinger. Make sure your cat’s head is tilted up slightly. Drop the pill into the back of the mouth and promptly shut your cat’s mouth. You must remember to hold your cat’s mouth closed until the pill is swallowed. Be very careful not to block your cat’s nose when doing this. Sometimes a cat will throw pills up after being medicated. If you find a soggy pill on the floor, it will be necessary to give your cat another pill.

Another excellent option is to use Feline Restraint Bag just as many veterinary assistants, grooming parlors, etc. use. These are especially effective if you are medicating kitty alone.

Oral drops are often much easier to give your cat than pills. If your cat requires antibiotics request that your cat is prescribed the drops instead of the pill form. Most cats like the flavor of drops. Vitamins and antibiotics can both be given in liquid form. When you are giving your cat liquid medication, it is very important to use the dropper given with the prescription. This ensures that the proper dosage is given. You will need to give your cat the medicine in much the same way as the pills. Secure your cat in a Feline Restraint Bag, or hold your cat under one arm and open the mouth with one finger on each side of the mouth. As soon as you put the drops in, close the mouth and hold shut until the cat swallows.

Some pills can be given inside of food such as canned food or hidden inside a piece of meat. It is not recommended to give cats their medication in their water because if they do not drink all of the water, then they are not getting the proper dosage. Also, pills can make the water taste strange to the cat and could lead to dehydration. Another tip is to crush a pill into smaller pieces and mix with meat flavored baby food or tuna. Most cats will eat this and not even notice they are getting medicine.

Injections: If you cat requires daily injections of medication at home, such as insulin, it is very important to follow a schedule. Cats with diabetes usually need two injections twelve hours a part. When giving your cat insulin, remember to not shake the vial. Roll the vial in your hands very gently to mix. When you are ready to give your cat the injection, place your cat on a comfortable surface and have your cat lie down. Gently pull the skin up at the back of the neck. This is the perfect place for injections because cats usually are not bothered by the shot. Insulin needles are very thin so you will not need to push the syringe in very far. After giving your cat injections a few times, it will become easier on you and your cat.

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2. Why Do Cats Come To Visit My Two Spayed Female Cats?
3. Treating a Dog For Dehydration
]]> http://4petsonline.com/cats-3/feed/ 1 http://4petsonline.com/top-5-reasons-you%e2%80%99re-not-ready-to-own-a-dog/ http://4petsonline.com/top-5-reasons-you%e2%80%99re-not-ready-to-own-a-dog/#comments Fri, 09 Jul 2010 19:13:39 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3821
• How to Make a Chicken Coop – Five Important Reasons To Consider
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If any of the following 5 statements ring true, you should re-examine your reasons for wanting a dog and your ability to properly care for one.

1. You’re Always Really Busy with Work and Don’t Have Much Downtime

In order for your new dog or puppy to bond with you and properly acclimate to its new surroundings, you’ll need to set a lot of time aside just for him. You can’t just pick out a puppy, bring it home, play with it for a while and then forget it. You need to spend quality time with your new family member. This means lots of playtime (especially for puppies), two or more walks outside every day and obedience training. If you don’t spend time with your pet, you’re just asking for trouble. Often, neglected pets will act out by engaging in destructive behavior. Furthermore, if your pet is alone too much, he will not be properly socialized. This may result in his being unduly fearful of strangers and other animals which, in turn, may cause him to become aggressively defensive towards them. If you are too busy to spend quality time with a pet, then wait until your life is a little less hectic before you adopt one.

2. You Live on a Very Strict Budget and Can Barely Afford to Pay All of Your Bills Every Month

Dogs are never really free, even if you are given one as a gift. First, you have to pay for a good quality dog food. If your dog is a very small breed, this may not be of much concern. If your dog is a large breed, however, food can cost over $100 a month. Second, you’ll need to provide your dog with routine medical care like spaying or neutering, annual vaccinations and exams and dental care. You also have to be prepared to pay for any emergency medical services. Third, depending on the breed of dog, you may need to have it professionally groomed and this can cost a lot of money. Even if you groom the dog yourself, you’ll still have to pay for the grooming supplies. Fourth, you’ll need to be able to afford miscellaneous items like dog dishes, toys and other goodies. If you can’t afford to take care of your dog in an appropriate way, then you should put your puppy adoption plans on hold until you are in a better financial position.

3. You Only Want a Dog for Protection Purposes

A dog, even one that has been specially trained to guard your home, is more than just a security device. It is a living creature who deserves to be loved by the people who adopt him. He should be treated as a part of the family and should be treated respectfully. Guard dogs need consistent and caring interaction with their owners. Otherwise, those same qualities that make them great at guarding their territory (alertness, aggressiveness and possessiveness) can turn them into “bad dogs” if left on their own. If you are not prepared to accept a dog as part of your family for the long haul and socialize it appropriately, then you should not adopt one. If security is truly a concern, you should have a security system installed in your home.

4. Your Kids Need Something to Play With

If your kids are bored and need something to entertain them, then buy them more toys. Don’t buy your kids a dog unless they really want one and can see it as a living creature instead of as a toy; and, certainly don’t buy your kids a dog unless you want one too. Let’s face it. You may say that the dog belongs to the kids, but the adults in the household will ultimately be responsible for its care, feeding and medical expenses. Don’t bring a dog into your home unless both you and your kids understand that adopting a dog makes him a part of your family for life.

5. You Want a Dog Because You Want to Breed It and Make Lots of Money

First, successful and reputable dog breeders are in the business because they love the dogs they work with. Often, someone develops a breeding business only after years of having had many dogs of a particular breed as pets. Good breeders have years of experience with the breed and know everything there is to know about its traits, history and physical characteristics. They also love to educate others about the breed. Second, the bills associated with the feeding and care of the dog far surpasses any income he will generate, especially for the first few years. Buy a dog because you love the breed and cherish him as a part of your family. Maybe a business will come from it later on.

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]]> http://4petsonline.com/top-5-reasons-you%e2%80%99re-not-ready-to-own-a-dog/feed/ 1 http://4petsonline.com/black-and-tan-coonhound-hound-group/ http://4petsonline.com/black-and-tan-coonhound-hound-group/#comments Fri, 09 Jul 2010 18:56:51 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3814
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The Black and Tan Coonhound is one dog breed that makes an excellent house dog that has retained its strong internal desire to hunt. Once properly trained they are calm, quiet, and moderately affectionate with the family indoors. When outside they will pick up a scent in a heartbeat, often getting vigorously excited when those hunting instincts take over. They are gentle around children but with their dominant personality, the Black and Tan Coonhound may be a little too rough with smaller kids.

A Brief History Of The Black and Tan Coonhound

The Black and Tan Coonhound is considered to be the all-American breed. Having been around since the 1700s, this dog is said to have been the result of crosses between the black and tan Virginia Foxhound and the Bloodhound.

Black and Tan Coonhounds were mostly used to hunt large animals such as bear, but they could also trap smaller prey like raccoons. They were popular among hunters specifically in the rugged areas of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Smokey Mountains, and the Appalachian. Just like their Bloodhound ancestors, the Black and Tan Coonhound trails with their nose close to the ground and moving swiftly along, baying when the prey was trapped until the hunter arrived.

The breed was officially recognized by the AKC in 1945. And although there have been a few Black and Tans in the show ring, they have remained much more popular and useful to the
American hunter. Competitive hunts are organized each year for coonhounds only, in which you can see the skills of the English Coonhound, Treeing Walkers, Plott Hounds, Blue Tick Coonhounds, and of course, the Black and Tan Coonhound.

Upkeep Requirements For The Black and Tan Coonhound

With its high energy levels, the Black and Tan Coonhound needs plenty of daily exercise. They can literally run for miles, but a few long walks and the occasional run outside each day will suffice. These dogs also have a strong scenting ability so if a Coonhound is untrained to obey its owner’s commands to “stay”, and the dog picks up a strong scent, expect a long chase to catch your coonhound.

The ideal living conditions for this breed is to have a large open area where there is enough running field or forest to roam in. They can handle both cold and hot temperatures so long as the climate is not extreme. Black and Tan Coonhounds can also live outdoors, but as with all family companions, its best for them to sleep inside at night. Grooming requirements for the breed consists of a light brushing every couple of weeks to remove dead hair.

Health Concerns

The average lifespan of the Black and Tan Coonhound is between ten and twelve years. The only major health concern in the breed is CHD. Minor health problems that are often seen include hypothyroidism and ectropion. Rarely seen is hemophilia B. Veterinarians suggest that these dogs get specifically tested for eye, hip, and thyroid problems.

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2. Black Russian Terrier (Working Group)
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]]> http://4petsonline.com/black-and-tan-coonhound-hound-group/feed/ 0 http://4petsonline.com/memory-foam-and-orthopedic-dog-beds/ http://4petsonline.com/memory-foam-and-orthopedic-dog-beds/#comments Wed, 07 Jul 2010 15:32:44 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3718
• A Dog’s Schedule – Time for Play
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As our pets grow older there are often certain steps we can take to make them more comfortable. Many dogs develop arthritis and there is no better way to relieve the pain and discomfort of arthritis, hip dysplasia and joint and muscle stiffness than with a memory foam dog bed. A high-density memory foam dog bed conforms to the shape of your dog’s body, never loses its shape and also warms your pet within minutes. An ultra supportive dog bed creates a custom nest that cradles your pet’s hips and joints. It adjusts to your pet’s shape and pressure points for maximum resiliency and comfort. Once your pet rests his or her bones on the thick, secure base and snuggles down, he’ll have a bed for life.

A good, high quality memory foam, orthopedic dog bed will provide years of comfort and support, in fact, with normal use, the better ones are guaranteed to last for 10+ years.

Over the years, I have enjoyed the companionship of several beloved dogs who lived well beyond their expected years. One such dog was Tansy, who remained with me well into her eighteenth year. She adored her Memory Foam Orthopedic Dog Bed, topped off with a big, fluffy blanket and she and her younger companion would snuggle together in complete comfort.

Dogs tend to select couches, chairs, or beds as a place to rest or sleep. They prefer the comfort and warmth these items offer compared to a hard floor. Dog beds provide the same comfort benefits and they keep pets off furniture—an important consideration for many pet owners who prefer to keep their furniture free from pet hair. A bed introduced at an early age, reinforced with consistent training, will keep your pet off your furniture for his or her entire life.

To determine the size of bed that’s right for your dog, measure your pet while it is lying down in its normal sleeping position and then add 7—10 inches.

Don’t skimp on the quality of the Memory Foam Pet Bed you purchase. The higher density the foam, the more expensive, but as I pointed out earlier, the best beds and covers are guaranteed for at least ten years. Beds made of lower density foam won’t last anything like as long.

Get Exactly the Same Memory Foam Matress At 62% Off From Amazon

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]]> http://4petsonline.com/memory-foam-and-orthopedic-dog-beds/feed/ 0 http://4petsonline.com/greyhound-rescue/ http://4petsonline.com/greyhound-rescue/#comments Sat, 03 Jul 2010 15:07:32 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3703
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Several years ago, Elizabeth, a single mother of three teenage boys, had been in contact with the Greyhound Pets of America (a rescue group that finds homes for retired racing greyhounds). She asked the group if they had an adult dog that would get along well with cats, as Elizabeth also loved cats and had several of them.

A lovely greyhound named Bronze fit the bill. Just several days later Bronze was welcomed with loving arms into his new home.

Bronze didn’t know a lot of small things right away, such as how to climb stairs or comprehend a see-through glass doors, windows, etc. He did not know how to play and was very wary of people, particularly tall, thin males. And something especially peculiar – he was literally afraid of his own shadow!

Any of these things caused fear in Bronze, and his resulting reaction was aggression; snarling and growling. Elizabeth was worried that his behavior would go beyond this response, and develop into biting or attacking.

Soon Bronze showed fear towards another specific occurrence: Anytime Elizabeth’s brother came to visit, wearing his usual leather jacket and ball cap, Bronze would again start his aggressive stance and snarling. The same thing happened when Elizabeth’s sons came home with their noisy friends.

The Cause Of Bronze’s Fear

As you know, Bronze was an ex-race dog, so Elizabeth decided to contact a canine psychologist. The doctor was able to identify the problem right away. He had asked Elizabeth to obtain a picture of the dog’s ex-trainer, who turned out to be a very tall, skinny man who wore a long black coat, along with a hat that resembled a baseball cap.

Add to this evidence the obvious experiences of the dog having raced at the track: crowds of noisy people, confinement, guns firing, running, more confinement, lots of harsh training commands from his trainer – it was no wonder Bronze reacted the way he did when he was adopted.

Managing these issues was not going to be an easy task. It required Elizabeth to have constant vigilance. The doctor instructed her to remove the noisy teenagers from his presence, teaching Elizabeth to be cautious of how she gave commands to Bronze, as well as have her brother take off his black leather jacket and ball cap when visiting.

In time, Bronze was able to calm down. Within 12 months he was less afraid of noise and the appearance of any man resembling his past trainer became less of a threat. Bronze lived to be thirteen years old and because of his new owner’s love and care and learning how to communicate, he was a lucky dog – one that enjoyed the right that every canine has – to be loved and part of a real family.

What You Can Learn From This Story

If you are also considering bringing home an adult dog that has had a history of competing in sports, such as a racing dog, you should prepare yourself by taking lessons from the above story. It will not only teach you how to communicate with your problem dog, but could also save him or her from being sentenced to a lonely life and eventual death at a pound.

Where can you learn more about adopting an ex-racing greyhound yourself?

• By far the best advice I have come across is in Regan Black’s “Adopt A Greyhound Guide”. If you want more information before deciding which greyhound to choose, or even to help you decide if you should get a greyhound, then this guide is exactly what you need. Click Here for full details.
• Greyhound Rescue and Rehab
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• National Greyhound Adoption Program
• Golden State Greyhound Adoption

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]]> http://4petsonline.com/greyhound-rescue/feed/ 1 http://4petsonline.com/dog-breeds-6/ http://4petsonline.com/dog-breeds-6/#comments Sat, 03 Jul 2010 13:53:45 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3696
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Dogs have been making great companions for centuries now. They are loved by all ages. Everyone has their own preference as to what dog best suits their lifestyle. When choosing a dog, this is an important aspect to consider, especially for the elderly. Having a four legged friend can be comforting and can bring much joy to an elderly person. Studies have proven that having a dog around, improves the overall well being of seniors. They can have someone to share their love with. Even nursing homes have grabbed onto the idea of having animals visiting or even living in the same venue.

What are the best picks for the elderly though? The two most important areas to consider are the size and temperament of the canine. Smaller dogs tend to be less maintenance and easier to handle than larger ones. Smaller dogs are also beneficial for the elderly because they make great lap dogs. Below are some top choices of breeds for seniors.

Schnauzer – These dogs enjoy being around people. They crave the companionship given by humans. There are two sizes: the miniature and standard size. Either one will do. Schnauzers can be protective of its family and they have a desire to please. Maintenance of the dog consists of exercising daily. A brief walk would be sufficient. Also consistent grooming is required.

Pug – These dogs are good picks because of their size. They are small dogs, and yet they have big hearts. They are generally very playful dogs. Outgoing by nature, they thrive off of attention and affection from its owners. Even though they crave a lot of attention, they don’t just take; they give a lot out too. These dogs are best fitted for someone who has plenty of time on their hands. They are not always high energized. They do have down time in which they like to snuggle up on a warm lap.

Cocker Spaniel – The cocker is a rather popular pick among dog lovers. They are not high strung or outgoing by nature. Because of their patience and docile personality, they make great picks for seniors. They don’t need a lot of exercise either. Just a brief walk will do. They are loyal to their owners. Because of their curly hair, regular grooming is a good idea.

Chihuahua – These dogs may be tiny, but they have a loud bark. They tend to take to one owner rather than several family members. For seniors living alone, they are great for warning of people approaching. Despite their size, they are very protective of their owners. They generally weigh less than 5 lbs. and are 6-9 inches in height.

Shih tzu – These dogs live for human companionship. They are friendly and gentle dogs. This breed is very alert to what is going on around him.

Yorkshire Terrier – This dog makes another great lap dog. He enjoys quietness by lounging around. Don’t be fooled by his lounging, he does have quite a bit of vigor.

Scottish Terrier – By the name, it is obvious that Scotties derived from Scotland. They are loyal to their family. They are a working dog that weighs between 15-20 lbs. Their statute reflects their intelligence. They can be protective as well.

Toy Poodle – This dog loves to be doted over and enjoys the company of people over other dogs. Poodles love attention and don’t mind being treated like a king. If a senior is looking for a companion to dot over, this is the pick for them.

Pomeranian – This dog originated in Pomerania, Germany. It has been compared to a little fuzzy bear. Pomeranians tend to be perky and can bring a smile to any face. They make great companions.

Boston Terrier – Boston Terriers are considered to be American breed dogs. They are small in size and because of their protective nature, seniors will feel secure having one of these around. Despite their protective instinct, they are also friendly and mellow.

These are just a few breeds that an elderly person might want hanging around. Smaller dogs with mild temperaments toward their owners tend to be preferred picks. Keep in mind, there is always an exception to any breed. It’s best to talk to others who are familiar with a particular breed. It’s best to know the restrictions of the senior before choosing the right dog.



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]]> http://4petsonline.com/dog-breeds-6/feed/ 0 http://4petsonline.com/dog-breeds-5/ http://4petsonline.com/dog-breeds-5/#comments Fri, 02 Jul 2010 12:38:58 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3680
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The Bichon Frise dog breed is a member of the non-sporting group and its roots are originally from the Mediterranean. This dog breed came the United States sometime around the 1950s but did not become popular with dog owners until the mid 1960s. And it was not until the year 1971 that the AKC (American Kennel Club) recognized the Bichon Frise as an official breed.

These cute animals are considered to be bouncy, playful, and extremely perky with character. Some dog enthusiasts say that the Bichon Frise manages a happy-go-lucky outlook towards life. These dogs are so friendly that strangers can come up to them and pet the dogs with no worry of aggression. And suffice to say, the Bichon Frise gets along very well with young children.

This dog is very responsive, affectionate, and adores cuddling with its family. Because of its need for human companionship, the Bichon Frise cannot be left alone for too long a time. He will become easily upset and bark until company arrives.

Upkeep And Maintenance

Even though they are small, the Bichon Frise does need a bit of daily exercise. A simple walk on the leash, a few laps in the yard, or even rigorous indoor games will work just fine. If you have access to an enclosed backyard or perhaps a field, a great way to exercise these little guys is to have one of its owners stand on one side the grass, and a second owner at the far distance of the other side. Each of you will take turns calling your dog as you watch him run vigorously back-and-forth until he is easily tired.

When it comes to grooming, you will need to brush the Bichon Frise about every other day. This dog breed has a white puffy coat that may need trimming and scissoring on an occasional basis. And although the Bichon Frise does not shed, some hairs do become loose and could entangle with the rest of the coat, causing it to mat.

Health Information

Like most small dogs, you can look forward to the Bichon Frise with having a lifespan of up to 15 or more years. Veterinarians suggest that you have this breed specifically tested for eye problems, knee dysplasia, and hip dysplasia. Major health problems that seem to stem through a majority of Bichon Frise dogs are allergies, Cushing’s disease, and patellar luxation.

For much more information about the lovable Bichon Frise Click Here

 



 

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]]> http://4petsonline.com/dog-breeds-5/feed/ 1 http://4petsonline.com/dog-breeds-4/ http://4petsonline.com/dog-breeds-4/#comments Thu, 01 Jul 2010 14:36:07 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3580
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The Belgian Tervuren is an active and intelligent member of the Herding Group. These dogs were bred to guard and herd livestock, with the physical appearance to prove it, showing off a proud posture and an elegantly muscular body. It combines great strength with agility and speed, and has the energy to run and herd non-stop all day.

The temperament of the Belgian Tervuren is as playful and alert as any breed, yet will turn quickly to reserved and defensive around strange people. They are natural watchdogs and fearless protectors. These dogs function best when ongoing mental stimulation and training is followed. They are well-mannered in the house and are safe around children, with the exception of minor nipping in the attempt to herd them.

A Brief History Of The Belgian Tervuren

The Belgian Tervuren has its roots in Belgium and has been around since the 1800s. This dog is actually one of four Belgian dog breeds. All four share the same origins, with the major distinction being the coat type and color patterns. They are the long, black haired Groenendael, the short haired Malinois, the wire haired Laekenois, and the non-black haired Tervuren.

All of these breeds were used as herding dogs and as guard dogs, and were interbred both before and after being officially organized into one breed, known as the Continental or the Belgian. The Tervuren was named after a small village, known as the village of Tervuren, where the dog had its earlier residences. They were not quite as popular as the other shepherd breeds but still made the official AKC registration list in the United States in 1918.

Upkeep Requirements For The Belgian Tervuren

The Belgian Tervuren, like all breeds from the Herding Group, must have lots of daily exercise. Strenuous activity in the form of running and outside games are best. They are easily trained and thrive on mental stimulation as well. They specifically enjoy herding and will even attempt to herd small children if left unsupervised.

These dogs have tolerance to moderately cool and warm temperatures, and should be given the room to roam outside during the day. Belgian Tervuren dogs absolutely cannot live in a small, closed-in space. Although they do thrive on human companionship and contact, they need plenty of time outdoors. Grooming requirements for the dog’s double coat needs a good brushing, two to three times per week.

Health Concerns

The average lifespan of the Belgian Tervuren is between ten and twelve years. Major health concerns that are commonly seen in the breed are seizures. Minor health issues include PRA, hypothyroidism, allergies, CHD, and elbow dysplasia. Rarely seen is hemangiosarcoma, pannus, PPM, and cataracts. Veterinarians suggest that the Belgian Tervuren get specifically tested for eye, hip, and elbow problems.



Related posts:

1. Belgian Sheepdog (Herding Group)
2. Belgian Malinois (Herding Group)
3. Beauceron (Herding Group)
]]> http://4petsonline.com/dog-breeds-4/feed/ 1 http://4petsonline.com/dog-breeds-10/ http://4petsonline.com/dog-breeds-10/#comments Thu, 01 Jul 2010 14:06:13 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=4250
• Belgian Malinois (Herding Group)
• Akita (Working Group)
• Australian Terrier (Terrier Group)
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The Boxer is considered to be an all-time favorite breed among dog enthusiasts. They were formed as a result of breeding two specific European breeds that no longer exist today. They were the Danziger Bullenbeiser and the Brabenter Bullenbeiser. The AKC recognized the Boxer during the early 1900s.

This dog has a very outgoing personality, playful, and attentive to its owners and training commands. The Boxer makes a perfect addition to a family who enjoys an active lifestyle. They are generally well behaved with other household pets and are friendly towards children.

Upkeep And Maintenance

The Boxer is not a breed that is meant to be kept indoors without activity. He needs daily stimulation, both mentally and physically, and enjoys running. This dog would make a great jogging companion and must be active through daily walks on the leash.

Boxers are best suited for living indoors with their family. Hot weather is not this dogs best preference in terms of temperature. He prefers a cooler atmosphere so if you keep your Boxer outdoors for any length of time, be sure that there is plenty of shaded area for him to rest when overheated.

Grooming is very simple with the Boxer. Due to his short coat, you’ll only need an occasional brushing once weekly in order to remove dead hairs.

Health Information

The Boxer dog breed has an average life span of anywhere between eight to ten years. Veterinarians recommend that Boxer dog owners have their animals specifically tested for health issues such as hip dysplasia, cardiac issues, and potential thyroid problems.

There are a few major health concerns that seem to be typical with the Boxer breed, and they are SAS, CHD, and Boxer cardiomyopathy. Minor concerns include corneal erosion, gastric torsion, hypothyroidism, and colitis. Occasionally, the Boxer dog breed may develop brain tumors or degenerative myelopathy.

For much more information about boxers >>Click Here<<

 


Related posts:

1. Belgian Malinois (Herding Group)
2. Akita (Working Group)
3. Australian Terrier (Terrier Group)
]]> http://4petsonline.com/dog-breeds-10/feed/ 0 http://4petsonline.com/going-on-vacation-have-a-pet-sitter-care-for-your-pets/ http://4petsonline.com/going-on-vacation-have-a-pet-sitter-care-for-your-pets/#comments Wed, 30 Jun 2010 19:34:48 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3593
• How To Care For A Puppy – 5 Important Things To Think About
• Baby Kitten Care Essential Info
• No Trouble at all Arkansas Couple Care for Zonkey
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Are your pets traumatized when you take a vacation and board them at the local pet shelter while you are away? Well, why not just leave them in their own home environment and hire a pet sitter to visit daily to take care of them? Pet sitters have come a long way over recent years, they are now a band of serious, dedicated professionals. Many pet sitters have obtained a high level of expertise through personal study by completing a course of study in pet care, health, nutrition and behavior, as well as, business development and management, and a complete pet first aid course.

A pet sitter takes care of your pets in the place they love the most – your HOME – rendering them the same care you provide and lots of TLC! A pet sitter’s goal is to be the next best thing to you in your pet’s life, and give YOU “Peace of Mind” when you are away.

Most professional home pet sitters advertise their availability through national companies such as SittercityJoining this excellent organization can be a double bonus because they also have many thousands of highly qualified baby sitters on their books with CPR and first aid training.

I highly recommend Sittercityfrom genuine personal experience. All the pet sitters I’ve used through them have been friendly, utterly obliging and highly professional.

They have made pet sitting their career and they go out of their way to give excellent service. My pets have loved them all!

For much more information…
>>Click Here



Throughout July, enter Promo code SITTERSAVE and receive $20 OFF an annual membership, or $5 OFF a monthly membership.

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1. How To Care For A Puppy – 5 Important Things To Think About
2. Baby Kitten Care Essential Info
3. No Trouble at all Arkansas Couple Care for Zonkey
]]> http://4petsonline.com/going-on-vacation-have-a-pet-sitter-care-for-your-pets/feed/ 1 http://4petsonline.com/parrot/ http://4petsonline.com/parrot/#comments Wed, 30 Jun 2010 17:41:09 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3592
• ZuPreem AvianMaintenance Natural Premium Bird Diet for Parrots & Conures
• Treating Parrot Feather Plucking
• A Healthy Eclectus Parrot
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Learn to teach your parrot how to talk and stop annoying parrot behavior such as biting, screaming and feather plucking. Get immediate access to online videos that show you how. This is an easy way to Interact with parrot owners world wide Via The Elite Parrots Club Forum.
Elite Parrots Club – Multimedia Resource (Videos & Articles).

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1. ZuPreem AvianMaintenance Natural Premium Bird Diet for Parrots & Conures
2. Treating Parrot Feather Plucking
3. A Healthy Eclectus Parrot
]]> http://4petsonline.com/parrot/feed/ 0 http://4petsonline.com/backyard/ http://4petsonline.com/backyard/#comments Wed, 30 Jun 2010 17:24:28 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3591
• The Fish Oriented Outdoor Pond Made Easy
• Building An Outdoor Pond For To Attract Wildlife
• Making A Plan Of Your Outdoor Pond
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• Cat deterrent safely and effectively repels unwanted cats
• 2-second ultrasonic alarm when motion detector senses motion
• Not audible to humans; covers 330 square feet; requires 9-volt battery
• Weatherproof and can be left outdoors in all conditions
• Measures approximately 8 by 3 by 18 inches

Product Description
Are you tired of picking up after your neighbour’s cats? Of having your fish plucked right out of your pond? Of having messy paw prints all over your freshly washed car? Let the CatStop solve your problems! CatStop’s built-in motion sensor catches cats in the act, and a burst of ultrasonic sound frightens them away. You and your neighbors can’t hear it, but cats detest it. CatStop keeps unwanted cats out of your flowers, garden, yard or pond. You’ll soon be enjoying the sweet smell of flowers instead of the smell left behind by the neighbourhood cats!

Contech CatStop Ultrasonic Outdoor Cat Deterrent

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1. The Fish Oriented Outdoor Pond Made Easy
2. Building An Outdoor Pond For To Attract Wildlife
3. Making A Plan Of Your Outdoor Pond
]]> http://4petsonline.com/backyard/feed/ 5 http://4petsonline.com/dog-breeds-3/ http://4petsonline.com/dog-breeds-3/#comments Wed, 30 Jun 2010 16:28:18 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3586
• Alaskan Malamute (Working Group)
• Akita (Working Group)
• Anatolian Shepherd (working group)
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The Bernese Mountain Dog is a sensitive, calm, loyal canine that makes the perfect family companion. Extremely devoted to its owners, this breed is easy to train, trustworthy around small children, and is one of the friendliest dogs you will see in action when socializing with new people and new pets.

A Brief History Of The Bernese Mountain Dog

The exact origin of the Bernese Mountain Dog is unknown but we do know that the breed came from an area in Switzerland, dating back to the Ancient times. They had distinguished themselves from the other Swiss mountain dogs (the Sennehunde) by having a medium-length coat.

Some dog experts believe that the breed is a mix between Roman mastiffs and native flock-guarding dogs, a cross that was made possible when Rome invaded Switzerland. The result was a dog that could handle the extreme cold temperatures of the Alpines while serving various functions: a drover, flock guard, draft dog, farm dog, and a herder.

As amazingly useful the dogs had turned out, there was no attempt to perpetuate the breed for further perfection. By the late 1800s there were very little numbers of Bernese Mountain Dogs left – facing extinction. It wasn’t until a man named Albert Heim, a professor and research expert, discovered the breed in the lower Alps.

Mr. Heim took great pride in promoting the Bernese Mountain Dog all throughout Switzerland. He then promoted the dog throughout Europe as well. At one point, the dog was referred to as “Durrbachler” but was changed to its current name, the Bernese Mountain Dog. In 1926 the breed made its way to the United States and gain AKC recognition in the year 1937.

Upkeep Requirements For The Bernese Mountain Dog

This breed loves nothing more than to spend most of its time outdoors, particularly in cold weather. Exercise requirements can be met with a few daily walks on the leash or a good hike through the hills. Bernese Mountain Dogs seem to enjoy pulling sleds or other objects.

Although it can live outdoors during cold temperatures it is better to have your Bernese Mountain Dog inside at night with the rest of the family. They connect well with people and must have human interaction to remain happy. Grooming requirements consist of two to three weekly brushings, especially when shedding.

Health Concerns

The average life span of a healthy Bernese Mountain Dog is between six to nine years. Major health conditions that run common in the breed are elbow dysplasia, CHD, gastric torsion, and mast cell tumors. Minor concerns include cataracts, SAS, and ectropion. There are no tests that veterinarians suggest needed to trace possible hereditary health conditions.



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1. Alaskan Malamute (Working Group)
2. Akita (Working Group)
3. Anatolian Shepherd (working group)
]]> http://4petsonline.com/dog-breeds-3/feed/ 1 http://4petsonline.com/dog-breeds-2/ http://4petsonline.com/dog-breeds-2/#comments Wed, 30 Jun 2010 15:30:28 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3574
• Belgian Tervuren (Herding Group)
• Belgian Malinois (Herding Group)
• Australian Shepherd (Herding Group)
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The Belgian Sheepdog is an all-natural guard dog that was bred to herd stock and protect the animals. The carry themselves with confidence and pride, always alert to what is going on around them. These dogs have the physical appearance of a muscular, yet elegant and proportioned canine, with a heavy bone structure and the drive to run and herd non-stop for hours.

The temperament of the Belgian Sheepdog is best described as playful yet protective, tough yet loving, and with an independent personality. They can be intense and weary of strange people and moderately friendly towards strange dogs and other pets. The Belgian Sheepdog is an intelligent breed, easy to train, and makes a courageous protector.

A Brief History Of The Belgian Sheepdog

As the name suggests, the Belgian Sheepdog originated from Belgium and has been around since the 1800s. They were used primarily as stock herders. The breed actually shares part of the same history with the Belgian Malinois and the Belgian Tervuren. All three dogs were local variations of the same single breed, known as the Continental Shepherd (some called it the Belgian Shepherd)

The specific dog that led the the Belgian Sheepdog was, back in those times, known as the Groenendael variation. They were working dogs used to guard and herd. This breed stood out from the rest of the dogs due to its long, black coat. They also excelled as trustworthy police dogs and service canines.

By the early 1900s, the Groenendael dog breed became popular among the Americans, employed mostly as police dogs. During World War I, they were counted on as sentry dogs, draft dogs, and messengers. It didn’t take long for the public to take notice, and in 1959, all three variations were divided into separate breeds. The Groenendael name was then changed to the Belgian Sheepdog.

Upkeep Requirements For The Belgian Sheepdog

This is one breed that must have plenty of ways to expend its high energy levels. Daily exercise through jogging, running, or playing is a must. A few walks on the leash will not be enough to keep the Belgian Sheepdog happy. Strenuous play games combined with advanced obedience training are best.

These dogs must have lots of room to move during the day. Apartment living is out of the question. The ideal living arrangement for the Belgian Sheepdog is to have access to a wide-open yard during the day, and to sleep indoors with the family at night. They form a tight bond with family members and make excellent watchdogs. Grooming requirements for the Belgian’s double coat calls for a good brushing two to three times weekly.

Health Concerns

The average lifespan of the Belgian Sheepdog is between ten and twelve years. A genetically healthy breed, there are no major health concerns. Minor health issues include allergies, seizures, hypothyroidism, and skin disorders. Rarely seen is PRA, hemangiosarcoma, CHD, elbow dysplasia, and pannus. Veterinarians suggest that the Belgian Sheepdog get specifically tested for thyroid, eye, hip, and elbow problems.



Related posts:

1. Belgian Tervuren (Herding Group)
2. Belgian Malinois (Herding Group)
3. Australian Shepherd (Herding Group)
]]> http://4petsonline.com/dog-breeds-2/feed/ 0 http://4petsonline.com/dogs/ http://4petsonline.com/dogs/#comments Tue, 29 Jun 2010 18:46:13 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3568
• Flying With Pets – Keep Them Healthy And Safe On Air Flights
• Buying a Dog Tips
• 5 Smart And Easy Tips For Keeping Your Pooch Safe
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If you are traveling by air, try not to take your dog with with you unless there is no other option. And before buying your airline tickets, you will need to call the airline and find out their current rules and regulations regarding pet travel accommodations. As for general rules regarding pet travels, federal regulations state that your dog should be no less than 8 weeks old and have been weaned for no less than 5 days before the day of the flight.

If you have a smaller dog (under 15 pounds), he may be able to fit inside a crate or carry-on luggage designed for pets which can fit under the passenger seat. But if you have a large dog, he will have to be put inside the cargo of the plane. The inside of the cargo has no heat and no air-conditioning. This can be very uncomfortable and scary for your dogs. There have been cases of dogs that have died inside the cargo from overheating due to delayed flights.

Below is a list of additional precautions you should apply when traveling by air with your dog:

1. When traveling with your dog, always book a direct, non-stop flight. Avoid plane transfers when possible.

2. On the day before you leave, confirm your flight schedule to make sure that there have been no changes.

3. On the day of your flight, give your dog a walk before leaving for the airport.

4. Talk to your vet about feeding instructions. The vet will likely recommend that, for your dog’s comfort, he should be on an empty stomach during the flight. The vet will also give you instructions on proper feeding during the flight. This will vary depending on your dog’s age, size, his regular diet, and the length of the flight.

5. To prevent dehydration, make sure that he gets enough water and that it is accessible to him during the flight.

6. Get to the airport early.

7. If you absolutely have to place him in an airline-approved crate, make sure that he gets his potty time right before he goes inside the crate. To make your dog feel more secure, you should put him in his crate, and not have the airline staff do it for you.

8. Stay with your dog as long as possible before the flight and personally take him to the gate.

9. Upon boarding the plane, inform the flight attendant that your dog is inside the cargo.

10. When you get to your destination, the first thing you should do is go to the baggage area right away and pick up your dog.



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1. Flying With Pets – Keep Them Healthy And Safe On Air Flights
2. Buying a Dog Tips
3. 5 Smart And Easy Tips For Keeping Your Pooch Safe
]]> http://4petsonline.com/dogs/feed/ 0 http://4petsonline.com/flea-collars/ http://4petsonline.com/flea-collars/#comments Tue, 29 Jun 2010 18:31:03 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3563
• Choosing Dog Flea Medicine
• Frontline Flea Treatment. Get Rid of Fleas on Your Cats and Dogs
• A GPS Dog Collar Can Not Only Find Your Dog But Train Them Too
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Most packages containing flea collars or other similar-type pest-fighting devices usually carry a printed caution on the front: “Do not allow children to play with this collar”.

The purchaser is then invited to read the additional precautions printed on the reverse side of the package. Over 50% of the dog owners polled about their knowledge of flea collars admitted that they either did not read the directions, or if they did, simply did not pay much attention to them.

Be Careful

Flea collars should be buckled securely, but not tightly, around the dog’s neck. A collar buckled too tightly will cause greater levels of the active ingredient to be absorbed into the bloodstream of the animal. This condition usually manifests itself by neck irritation, followed by a loss of hair under the collar.

When first placing a flea collar on a dog, the owner should observe the neck area for the first few days and be alert for signs of irritation. If irritation occurs, the collar should be removed immediately.

Additional precautions on most packages point out that each collar is intended as an insecticide generator and is not to be taken internally by man or animals. One might ask who in his right mind would want to eat a flea collar for breakfast. No “man” in his right mind would, but a dog (especially puppies) might consider such a collar an intriguing chew toy!

Playful puppies enjoy chewing and gnawing on anything, including each other! It is for this reason that manufacturers include the following precaution on each package containing a flea killing device: “Animals should not be allowed to chew on this collar”

Because the active ingredient used in flea collars is absorbed into the animals’ bloodstream, some animals may show allergic symptoms. Some dogs, like humans, are allergic to certain medications, while others can accept the medications with relative impunity. It is for this reason that each animal wearing such a flea device for the first time be observed closely for any signs of adverse reaction.

If an animal appears lethargic or refuses to eat, you should remove the collar at once. Dogs who have an allergy to these pesticides have been known to die. Such deaths need not occur if the owner takes a few moments to read the directions and properly observe his pet, should any side effects develop.

A dog wearing a flea collar will be more reactive to anesthetics, and a number of anesthetic deaths have been attributed to the use of these devices. The finger of guilt must ultimately be pointed at the dog owner for his failure to observe the precautions as set forth by the manufacturer.



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1. Choosing Dog Flea Medicine
2. Frontline Flea Treatment. Get Rid of Fleas on Your Cats and Dogs
3. A GPS Dog Collar Can Not Only Find Your Dog But Train Them Too
]]> http://4petsonline.com/flea-collars/feed/ 1 http://4petsonline.com/belgian-malinois/ http://4petsonline.com/belgian-malinois/#comments Tue, 29 Jun 2010 18:14:59 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3557
• Belgian Tervuren (Herding Group)
• Belgian Sheepdog (Herding Group)
• Canaan Dog (Herding Group)
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The Belgian Malinois dog is a loyal watchdog, smart, intelligent, and a proud member of the Herding Group, with a history that goes back to the early 1800s. This breed stands tall and poised on alert, always ready to guard and protect its family and territory. They have the physical appearance of a muscular, yet elegant canine, with the overall impression of lean power and an inquisitive expression in its face.

The temperament of the Belgian Malinois can best be described as a high-energy dog breed that is reserved around strangers, yet as playful as they come around its family. They are great around children and moderately friendly towards other dogs and pets in the house. The Belgian was born and bred to be a guard dog so they tend to have a dominating personality that must be trained by the right type of owner.

A Brief History Of The Belgian Malinois

As the name of this breed suggests, the Belgian Malinois has its roots from Belgium during the 1800s. The original Belgian sheep herding dog breeds were known as Chiens de Berger Belge and were used as all-purpose service dogs, mainly to guard livestock. They were strictly working dogs that were bred for ability over appearance.

During this time period, there were many different varieties of Belgian working dogs, thus it was hard to know if any recognizable breeds could be found within the groups. In 1891, a man named Professor Reul began studies of these native dogs and found a specific variety that had a short coat and was developed in a location around Malines. These dogs became known as the Belgian Malinois.

The breed has remained incredibly popular in its native land of Belgium but not so much in the United States. After World War II, the Belgian Malinois had rapidly declined in numbers throughout America but has since become one of the most prominent police service dogs throughout the world.

Upkeep Requirements For The Belgian Malinois

Being the proud owner of the Belgian Malinois means enjoying an active lifestyle, spending plenty of time outdoors. This is one breed that is not meant to sit inside a small apartment all day. They need to have vigorous play sessions in the yard and expend energy through sprints or fast-paced jogs with its owner. It especially enjoys herding when given the chance.

Living arrangements for the Belgian Malinois should be set up so that the dog has access to a safe, fenced-in area outside during the day, preferably a large yard with shade. At night, it is best suited to sleep indoors with the rest of the family. They have tolerance to moderately cool and warm temperatures. Grooming requirements call for a light brushing about once per week to remove dead hairs.

Health Concerns

The average lifespan of the Belgian Malinois is between ten and twelve years. There are no major health concerns that run common in the breed. Minor health issues include elbow dysplasia and CHD. Rarely seen is cataracts, PRA, hemangiosarcoma, and pannus. Veterinarians suggest that Belgian Malinois dogs get specifically tested for eye, hip, and elbow problems.



Related posts:

1. Belgian Tervuren (Herding Group)
2. Belgian Sheepdog (Herding Group)
3. Canaan Dog (Herding Group)
]]> http://4petsonline.com/belgian-malinois/feed/ 0 http://4petsonline.com/leopard-cat/ http://4petsonline.com/leopard-cat/#comments Mon, 28 Jun 2010 20:40:52 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3546
• The Catahoula Leopard: A Native American Breed
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Walking up the drive after an early morning walk, my husband and I were alerted to a lot of yowling and general cat bad language from our backyard. We hurried to see what was going on and found that a black cat we have always discouraged from our backyard because it systematically catches and tortures dozens of birds, especially babies, had cornered a beautiful leopard cat up against the back wooden fence and under a privet hedge.

My husband threw a pebble at the black cat and after a final yowl of anger he leaped on top of the wooden fence where he continued to hiss and spit. Another pebble, tossed at the fence made sufficient noise to cause him jump down on the other side.

The leopard cat remained under the hedge for a minute or so, then cautiously left his cover and crept into full view on the lawn.

Truly, it was the most beautiful cat I have ever seen. His coat was an orange-tan color and all over it had circles of black spots. The picture I am including was the best example I could find on the Internet but it really doesn’t do justice to the long-legged, elegant cat standing on our back lawn.

Cautiously I tried to approach, but after the trauma with his black adversary he wasn’t in a mood to make friends. Immediately I began to move towards him he took off and with one graceful leap, vanished over the side fence (not the one where the black cat had departed.)

We’ve never seen him before and he wasn’t wearing a collar or any identification—not that either would have done me any good.

He (or she) really was the most amazing cat I have ever seen. A real leopard in miniature. I shall keep a keen eye open for him, if he’s a stray he must be valuable and his owners must be searching for him.



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]]> http://4petsonline.com/leopard-cat/feed/ 1 http://4petsonline.com/boston-terrier/ http://4petsonline.com/boston-terrier/#comments Mon, 28 Jun 2010 14:48:18 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=4232
• Boston Terrier Health Problems Are No Different From Other Dogs
• Why Is A Boston Terrier An Ideal Pet
• Border Terrier (Terrier Group)
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Most dog breeds have very little documentation to show proof of their origin and ancestry. Because of this lack of factual history, the information on most of these breeds are assumed as best possible, however, the history of the Boston Terrier is different. This dog breed is well documented.

During the late 1800s, wealthy families from Boston used to employ coachmen to interbreed some of their finest of dogs. It was at that time that one of these crosses, between an English Terrier and a bulldog, created a dog named “Hooper’s Judge”. He was well over 30 pounds but was bred with a smaller sized female. The offspring puppy, which was a boy, was then bred with a female smaller than himself. Finally, the puppies of these two dogs were then interbred with French Bulldogs, which in turn created the foundation of today’s Boston Terrier.

By the year 1890, this breed became extremely popular in the Boston area and enthusiasts of the animal created an organization called the American Bull Terrier club. Shortly after, the name was officially changed to the Boston Terrier and was recognized by the AKC as official dog breed in 1893.

Upkeep And Maintenance

Boston Terriers are extremely devoted to their owner and are very sensitive to the atmosphere and mood around them. This dog can sense whether its owner or other people are feeling upset, happy, or angry. This unique characteristic makes the Boston Terrier a wonderful companion who is clever and learns very quickly. Not all of them bark often, but most do, making this animal a great watchdog.

Daily exercise is needed, which only requires the typical walks on a leash or playtime in a field with its owner. He loves to play chasing games, especially retrieving a ball. When it comes to living arrangements, this tough looking dog may seem like it could live outdoors, but quite the opposite is true. Boston Terriers are not meant to live outside as it does not tolerate heat or cold temperatures very well, but most importantly, this animal thrives from constant human companionship with its family.

Health Information

If you keep your Boston Terrier in a constant state of good health from sound nutrition and daily exercise, it has a long lifespan of up to 14 years. Another quality of this terrific house pet is that it has absolutely no major health concerns throughout the breed. The minor health issues that rarely come up are stenotic nares, patellar luxation, elongated soft palate, and allergies. It is recommended that all Boston Terriers be specifically tested for hip dysplasia, knee problems, and potential eye issues.



For much more information about Boston Terriers >>Click Here<<

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]]> http://4petsonline.com/boston-terrier/feed/ 0 http://4petsonline.com/bedlington-terrier/ http://4petsonline.com/bedlington-terrier/#comments Sun, 27 Jun 2010 16:37:37 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3524
• Australian Terrier (Terrier Group)
• Border Terrier (Terrier Group)
• Cairn Terrier (Terrier Group)
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The Bedlington Terrier is rated as being one of the friendliest members of the Terrier Group. They are more easy-going and laid back than most terriers, both in their character and personality. These dogs are unusually friendly towards strangers considering they are a terrier breed, but still make excellent watchdogs as you would expect.

The temperament of the Bedlington Terrier is on the soft side, which makes them more demonstrative and companionable towards its owners. Perfect around children and always looking the play, they make a quiet house dog and are a perfect fit for any family looking for a humble terrier, yet one that will stand up for itself against an aggressive dog or intruder.

A Brief History Of The Bedlington Terrier

The exact details of the Bedlington Terrier origins are a bit obscure, but we do know they have been around since the 1800s and sprang from a line of breeds in England. It is truly one of the most unusual looking members of the Terrier Group that was started by a man named Joseph Ainsley.

It was the year 1825 and Joseph, living in the town of Bedlington, had bred a couple of his own Rothbury Terriers, naming the offspring the Bedlington Terrier. It is said that the Dandie Dinmont Terrier and the Whippet was added to the mix soon after, but this claim is still unsubstantiated.

Whatever the true mix of breeds were used in creating the Bedlington, the results are an unforgettable appearing Terrier that is an effective hunter of rats, fox, badger, and otter. The breed made its way to the show ring around the late 1800s and is still enjoyed in households today.

Upkeep Requirements For The Bedlington Terrier

These dogs need plenty of daily exercise in the form of running or vigorous playtime games in the yard. They love to chase small animals and enjoy a brisk walk anytime of the day. Although they enjoy the great outdoors, the Bedlington Terrier is not meant to live outside. They should be inside at night (and during the day if the temperature is extreme) with comfortable bedding. Grooming requirements for this breed call for a thorough brushing about twice weekly, with monthly scissoring to keep the dog’s coat neat and shapely.

Health Concerns

The average lifespan for the Bedlington Terrier is between twelve and fourteen years. The only major health concern that runs common in the breed is copper toxicosis. Minor health problems include distichiasis, renal cortical hypoplasia, and retinal dysplasia. Rarely seen is patellar luxation. Veterinarians suggest that the Bedlington Terrier get specifically tested for eye problems, liver biopsy, and DNA for copper toxicosis.



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1. Australian Terrier (Terrier Group)
2. Border Terrier (Terrier Group)
3. Cairn Terrier (Terrier Group)
]]> http://4petsonline.com/bedlington-terrier/feed/ 1 http://4petsonline.com/cats-2/ http://4petsonline.com/cats-2/#comments Fri, 25 Jun 2010 13:32:39 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3513



Oscar the cat can put a collision with a combine harvester behind him as custom-made implants provide new back paws. Oscar may not be better than he was before – not faster, not stronger – but he is, indisputably, more bionic.

The cat, who took a nap in a sunny field unaware of the combine harvester steaming towards his hind paws, is back on his feet thanks to a world-first operation and state-of-the-art bioengineering.

His new kitten heels were designed with custom-made implants, which “peg” the ankle to the foot and mimic the way deer antler bone grows through skin. Oscar’s transformation, which has left him resembling a feline Ahab, has been described as a case of science copying the natural world.

The young cat’s road to recovery began after his local vet from St Saviour in Jersey referred owners Kate and Mike Nolan to Dr Noel Fitzpatrick, a Surrey-based neuro-orthopaedic surgeon.

“We had to do a lot of soul-searching and our main concern has always been whether this operation would be in Oscar’s best interests and would give him a better quality of life,” said Mrs Nolan.

Once the Nolans understood the treatment and discovered the operation could have an impact on human medicine, surgery was arranged. In a three-hour procedure, the veterinary surgical team inserted the pegs by drilling into one of Oscar’s ankle bones in each of his back legs. The implants, which are attached to the bone at the amputation site, were coated with hydroxyapatite to encourages bone cells to grow onto the metal.

The skin then grows over a special “umbrella” at the end of the peg to form a seal against bacteria and potentially fatal infections. The peg protrudes through the bone and skin, allowing the custom-built artificial paws to then be securely attached.

Oscar was trying to stand a day after the surgery and, despite some problems with infection, he was able to bear weight equally on all four limbs within four months.

Fitzpatrick said the patient had made a remarkable recovery. “Oscar can now run and jump about as cats do,” he said.

Courtesy of The Guardian UK



No related posts.

]]> http://4petsonline.com/cats-2/feed/ 1 http://4petsonline.com/borzoi/ http://4petsonline.com/borzoi/#comments Wed, 23 Jun 2010 12:46:23 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=4090
• Black and Tan Coonhound (Hound Group)
• Bloodhound (Hound group)
• Afghan Hound
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The Borzoi is a strikingly elegant-looking member of the Hound Group. With its quiet demeanor and outstanding behavior, this breed is one of the most well-mannered dogs to have as a house pet. And once outside the Borzoi loves to run and chase any small animal in sight. They are moderately affectionate, calm around children, and very sensitive to its owners. Most Borzoi dogs are a bit timid, especially around strangers.

A Brief History Of The Borzoi

Also known as the “Russian Wolfhound”, the Borzoi breed has its origins in Russia and has been around since the Middle ages. The history of these dogs go back to a time when they were bred by the Russian aristocracy for several hundred years.

Even as early as the 13th century these dogs were used to course hare. To increase the breed’s size and improve the coat, they were crossed with coursing hounds, Russian sheepdogs, and bearhounds. The result was a dog that could hunt wolf in cold weather. They would often hunt in three’s – 2 males and 1 female – which were unleashed when a wolf was in sight, taking the animal down with precision until the hunter arrived.

By the time the 1800s came about there were seven types of Borzoi dogs in Russia. The Borzoi that we know of today come from the Perchino type. Once the Russian Revolution took place, many Borzois were killed. The only way the breed survived was due to the caring of foreign royalty that handled several Borzoi kennels. Today the breed is a popular show dog that can often be seen modeling in magazines and also used as a coursing dog.

Upkeep Requirements For The Borzoi

As with most members of the Hound Group the Borzoi needs plenty of physical exercise. Daily walks on the leash in addition to several laps outside in an open field are the ideal activities for the breed. They also love to sprint. Access to a fenced-in yard during the day is ideal.

These dogs can also live outside but should sleep indoors at night with the rest of the family. They do not tolerate heat well but can handle moderately cool temperatures. Grooming requirements for the Borzoi dog calls for heavy brushings about three times weekly. Their coat is very long and tends to shed often.

Health Concerns

The average lifespan of the Borzoi is between ten and twelve years. The only major health concern in the breed is gastric torsion. Minor health problems that may show up are hypothyroidism and cardiomyopathy. Veterinarians suggest that the Borzoi get specifically tested for cardiac and thyroid problems.




Related posts:

1. Black and Tan Coonhound (Hound Group)
2. Bloodhound (Hound group)
3. Afghan Hound
]]> http://4petsonline.com/borzoi/feed/ 0 http://4petsonline.com/latest-conure-auctions-3/ http://4petsonline.com/latest-conure-auctions-3/#comments Wed, 23 Jun 2010 08:23:37 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3509
• Sun Conure First Flights Outdoors
• Doberman getting chased by little bird, Conure
• Kiwi The Sun Conure
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I thought I would include these auctions for you to take a look at:
[eba kw="conure" num="2" ebcat="11700"]
They offer some good bargains!

Related posts:

1. Sun Conure First Flights Outdoors
2. Doberman getting chased by little bird, Conure
3. Kiwi The Sun Conure
]]> http://4petsonline.com/latest-conure-auctions-3/feed/ 0 http://4petsonline.com/beauceron/ http://4petsonline.com/beauceron/#comments Tue, 22 Jun 2010 19:08:10 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3502
• Briard (Herding Group)
• Belgian Malinois (Herding Group)
• Canaan Dog (Herding Group)
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The Beauceron is a highly intelligent and sensitive member of the Herding Group. This breed has the look and form of a balanced, solid, and powerful dog. They have strong jaws, an agile body, with a dense, straight coat. Today the Beauceron serves the function of a protective house dog but at one time was associated as being one of the best of herding canines.

These dogs are supremely focused when it comes to listening to its owner’s commands and takes great pride in learning new things. They are a loyal breed, calm yet courageous, especially under the circumstances of guarding the family. The Beauceron is always ready to please and very patient around children. These dogs score high when it comes to training ability, watchdog accountability, and protection ability.

A Brief History Of The Beauceron

Although the area of origin for this breed is France (dating back to the 1500s), they are not entirely a French breed. The Beauceron actually originated from the plains outside of Paris (the La Beauce). These dogs were largely used as farm dogs – driving sheep, protecting cattle, and guarding the family.

It was 1863 when two types of the same dog had emerged. One was a flock-herding dog (the long coated Berger de Brie, known as the Briard) and the other a guardian (the short coated Berger de Beauce, known as the Beauceron). The first Berger de Beauce was registered in 1893 by the Societe Centrale Canine group. And the first breed club was created in 1922.

The breed was very well known as one of the best herding dogs in France, but remained hidden from outside of the area. They became well-respected in the military as service dogs during both world wars. Their functions included following trails, detecting mines, and adhering to detailed instructions. The Beauceron Club of America was formed in 1980 and in 2001 the AKC officially recognized the breed as a member of the miscellaneous class.

Upkeep Requirements For The Beauceron

Taking care of this energetic and super intelligent breed means lots of daily exercise and mental stimulation. This is not the type of dog that is happy sitting around the house all day. Without the right amount of stimulation, both mental and physical, the Beauceron becomes easily bored and will act out in a destructive manner.

The Beauceron should have plenty of time to spend outdoors in a large, fenced-in yard, but should sleep inside at night with the family. They can tolerate moderately cool and warm temperatures. Grooming requirements for the breed calls for a light brushing once per week to remove dead hairs.

Health Concerns

The average lifespan of the Beauceron is between ten and twelve years. There are no major health concerns in the breed. Minor health issues include gastric torsion and CHD. Veterinarians suggest that all Beauceron dogs get specifically tested for hip problems.



Related posts:

1. Briard (Herding Group)
2. Belgian Malinois (Herding Group)
3. Canaan Dog (Herding Group)
]]> http://4petsonline.com/beauceron/feed/ 1 http://4petsonline.com/bearded-collie/ http://4petsonline.com/bearded-collie/#comments Tue, 22 Jun 2010 18:48:55 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3496
• Border Collie (Working Group)
• The Tiny Herder of the Shetland Islands, the Shetland Sheepdog
• Canaan Dog (Herding Group)
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Although the exact origin of the Bearded Collie is not known for sure, it is estimated that this dog probably originated from one of two breeds: the Lowland Polish Sheepdog or the Magyar Komondor. We do know for certain, by specific records, that two Lowland Polish Sheepdogs made their way to Scotland when Polish traders brought the dogs there sometime during the year of 1514.

While it is true that many dogs were drawn up in artwork that resembled the Bearded Collie in paintings, dating back to the 18th century, solid evidence of the breed description did not show up until sometime during the early 19th century, at the time it was officially published.

Bearded Collie dogs were hard working dogs that herded sheep and drove cattle through rough terrain. They were tough and seemingly tireless during these long journeys. Its job as a dependable herder lasted for quite some time in Scotland until soon enough, after the Victoria era, Bearded Collie dogs soon gained favor as a show dog.

After World War I was over, the Bearded Collie was valued once again for it’s hard work as a herding dog. They became just as needed for herding after the war as they were back during the 18th century. Eventually, breeders who had interest in showing the Bearded Collie brought some of the dogs to England and America and the breed was officially recognized by the AKC in 1977.

Personality

Bearded Collie dogs are considered to be overly enthusiastic, playful, and with high energy levels. An independent thinker and often the center of attention, these dogs have a great sense of humor and its high intellect influences ease with obedience training. The Bearded Collie loves kids but may be a little too rambunctious for smaller children. In fact, they may even try to herd them when playing.

Taking Care Of Your Bearded Collie

As previously mentioned, the Bearded Collie is abundant with energy and must have a good jog or several long walks on daily basis. This dog is able to live outside when the weather is cool and can tolerate heat to a certain extent, but should be allowed to sleep indoors with its family. Grooming requirements consist of a thorough brushing about every other day.

Health Information

The average lifespan for a healthy Bearded Collie can last between 13 and 15 years. There are no major health concerns to worry about but occasionally seen are a few minor issues which include Addison’s, CHD, pemphigus, colonic disease, and epilepsy.



Related posts:

1. Border Collie (Working Group)
2. The Tiny Herder of the Shetland Islands, the Shetland Sheepdog
3. Canaan Dog (Herding Group)
]]> http://4petsonline.com/bearded-collie/feed/ 1 http://4petsonline.com/your-kittens-life-the-first-year/ http://4petsonline.com/your-kittens-life-the-first-year/#comments Tue, 22 Jun 2010 17:57:11 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3469
• Baby Kitten Care Essential Info
• Weaning A Bottle-Fed Kitten
• Homemade Kitten Food: Using Homemade Kitten Food for Your Kitten
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In the first year of life, kittens develop at a rapid rate, both physically and socially. Learn about the major milestones in their development, and how you can help the process along.

First Six Weeks

For the first week of life, kittens live only to process food and gain nutrients. Their eye and ear canals will not yet be open, and the mother cat will take care of all their needs. By the end of week two, their eyes will be completely open. Throughout this week and the next, their senses of sight, smell, and hearing will be developing and they’ll become more aware of the outside world. During week three, kittens may start to purr and the mother cat may begin to wean them, as they can digest on their own.

Between weeks three and four, the kittens will start to stand and even walk. In week five, the weaning process will start taking place in earnest. Owners should offer kittens’ well-balanced canned food especially formulated for kitten needs. As the kittens are slowly weaned, they will continue to nurse for up to eight or 10 weeks to satisfy their need to suckle. At five weeks, kittens will be more independent, can start to learn about the litter box, and socialize with their litter. During week six, socializing is the most important skill for kittens to learn as they play with each other and adjust to humans. If a kitten is not socialized to be handled by humans by six weeks, it is a very difficult skill to teach later in life.

Seven to Twelve Weeks

In this time period, the kittens’ socializing skills continue to grow. They will play with other kittens and humans, so enjoy this playful time. Physically, his motor skills will improve and he will start taking on adult sleeping habits. Typical play revolves around skills needed for hunting prey: hide and seek, jumping, pouncing, and tracking a toy across the room.

Don’t forget to get your kitten her first round of shots by week eight. A booster round should follow three to four weeks later. If she has fleas, a topical treatment can be started at eight weeks.

Three to Six Months

During this time of growth, you may turn around one day and your kitten suddenly looks more like a cat. A round kitten may become long and lithe before gaining his final adult weight. At approximately four months, a kitten will start losing baby teeth and adult teeth will come in. Although it may be a somewhat painful process for the kitten, it provides you with a good opportunity to massage his gums and begin a dental care regime. Throughout these months, continue to feed him kitten food, as he needs the additional nutrients.

Socially, kittens will find their social rank in the house, sometimes challenging the alpha cat and sometimes falling meekly into order. These tendencies depend on personality and social position. Traditionally, kittens were not spayed or neutered until six months. However, many advocates of early spaying and neutering believe that having the procedure done between three and six months of age is more beneficial to the cat. Read up on the procedure and talk to your veterinarian to decide how to proceed.

Six Months to One Year

This time of development roughly equates to teenager status in human beings. For this reason, your kitten may sometimes rebuff your affections as he tests his boundaries or tries to establish dominance. Like with teenagers, continue to give your kitten unconditional love—but on his terms. As mothers have said for years, he’ll grow out of it!

By the end of her first year, a kitten will be almost fully grown and developed, although she will continue to grow for another year. (Some breeds may even not be fully developed until four years of age.) If you have given her love and attention throughout the growing process, you two will enjoy a wonderful relationship for many years!

Be sure to have the camera handy during this time of unequaled growth to capture all different parts of the growing process. Years later, it will be hard to believe the mature, sedate adult cat on your lap was ever a leaping little fur ball!

Related posts:

1. Baby Kitten Care Essential Info
2. Weaning A Bottle-Fed Kitten
3. Homemade Kitten Food: Using Homemade Kitten Food for Your Kitten
]]> http://4petsonline.com/your-kittens-life-the-first-year/feed/ 0 http://4petsonline.com/zupreem/ http://4petsonline.com/zupreem/#comments Tue, 22 Jun 2010 17:45:23 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3476
• Elite Parrots Club – Multimedia Resource (Videos & Articles)
• Bird Feeders – Bird Feeding Tips for the Newbie
• Types Of All Natural Dog Food
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• 3-lb resealable pouch

Product Description
ZuPreem AvianMaintenance Natural Diet for parrots and conures is a premium blend of top-quality, highly digestible grains rich in essential and balanced nutrients for African Greys, conures, Amazons, senegals and other medium-sized hookbills. Naturally preserved with added vitamins and minerals essential to good health.

ZuPreem AvianMaintenance Natural Premium Bird Diet for Parrots & Conures

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1. Elite Parrots Club – Multimedia Resource (Videos & Articles)
2. Bird Feeders – Bird Feeding Tips for the Newbie
3. Types Of All Natural Dog Food
]]> http://4petsonline.com/zupreem/feed/ 2 http://4petsonline.com/cat-training-secrets/ http://4petsonline.com/cat-training-secrets/#comments Tue, 22 Jun 2010 17:45:21 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3475
• Discover Dog Training Tips You Must Know Before Training Your Dog
• Warning – Don’t Make These 5 Dog Training Mistakes
• House Training, Potty Training, Crate Training – Get It Right, Eliminate the Stress
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Learn The Cat Training Secrets The Experts Don’t Want You To Know! Most people believe that apart from litter-box training, there’s not much training you can involve yourself in with a cat. Nothing could be further from the truth; cats are intelligent animals and when approached in the right way are extremely receptive to training.

Click on the link below to see exactly what I mean

Cat Training Secrets

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1. Discover Dog Training Tips You Must Know Before Training Your Dog
2. Warning – Don’t Make These 5 Dog Training Mistakes
3. House Training, Potty Training, Crate Training – Get It Right, Eliminate the Stress
]]> http://4petsonline.com/cat-training-secrets/feed/ 0 http://4petsonline.com/scatmat/ http://4petsonline.com/scatmat/#comments Tue, 22 Jun 2010 17:25:46 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3473
• MultiVet SSSCAT Cat Training Aid
• Knowing Basic Dog Training Techniques Makes For Easier Training
• House Training, Potty Training, Crate Training – Get It Right, Eliminate the Stress
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• Safely and effectively trains your pets to stay away from certain areas
• Responds to your pet¿s touch with harmless low-power 3-second static pulse
• Suitable for cats and dogs of all sizes
• Runs up to 6 months or 10,000 activations on single 9-volt battery (sold separately)
• Measures 48 x 20 inches; 2-year limited warranty

Product Description
Electronic mat automatically trains pets to stay off of or away from any area in your home

ScatMat 48-by-20-Inch Electronic Pet Training Mat, Large

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1. MultiVet SSSCAT Cat Training Aid
2. Knowing Basic Dog Training Techniques Makes For Easier Training
3. House Training, Potty Training, Crate Training – Get It Right, Eliminate the Stress
]]> http://4petsonline.com/scatmat/feed/ 5 http://4petsonline.com/doberman-getting-chased-by-little-bird-conure/ http://4petsonline.com/doberman-getting-chased-by-little-bird-conure/#comments Tue, 22 Jun 2010 17:23:37 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3472
• The Ongoing Development of the Doberman Towards Perfection
• Latest Conure Auctions
• Sun Conure First Flights Outdoors
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My big bad doberman getting chased by our green cheek conure. No animals were harmed during the making of this film.

Related posts:

1. The Ongoing Development of the Doberman Towards Perfection
2. Latest Conure Auctions
3. Sun Conure First Flights Outdoors
]]> http://4petsonline.com/doberman-getting-chased-by-little-bird-conure/feed/ 25 http://4petsonline.com/injured-dog/ http://4petsonline.com/injured-dog/#comments Tue, 22 Jun 2010 15:21:02 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=4079
• Does Your Dog Need a New Approach – Holistic Dog Health?
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The most common of all accidents involving dogs is the one in which the dog is struck by a car. To help you prepare as best possible should, you run into this type of scenario with a hurt canine, please read along and take notes of the following steps. And please, take these steps to heart as it can save your dog someday, or someone else’s family pet.

Approaching A Hurt Dog

When approaching a dog that has been struck by a car, care must be taken that you aren’t bitten by the dog you’re trying to help. An injured dog knows only that it hurts and probably won’t be aware that you are on the scene in an attempt to help. Slowly approach the animal and see what his injuries might be.

While you evaluate the extent of the dog’s injuries, prepare an emergency muzzle using a necktie, belt, gauze bandage – or anything else from which such a muzzle can be fashioned. Affix it around the dog’s mouth and tie it behind the head. If the dog is bleeding severely, quickly apply a pressure bandage, tie off the exposed artery, or apply a tourniquet between the wound and the dog’s heart.

Broken Limbs

In the event of a broken limb, immobilize the limb to prevent bone-grating action, or the possibility of the bone protruding through the skin. Use cardboard, wood, chicken wire – whatever is immediately available. Even a couple of sticks of wood, with the aid of a belt, can be secured to a dog’s limb to help immobilize it.

Creating A Stretcher

A coat can be placed on the ground to double as a stretcher and as a means of keeping the dog warm while he’s being transported to the nearest veterinary clinic. Please lift the dog as gently as possible. This is extremely important in the event that internal injuries are present.

The primary concern in the event of an auto accident should be the presence of shock and internal injuries; therefore, speed, and an absolute minimum of lost motion is essential if a dog’s life is to be saved. Broken legs and external injuries are relatively unimportant in the beginning, and saving the dog’s life comes first.

No Food Or Water

One of the first things a person usually wants to do when aiding an injured animal is to give it food or water – perhaps as a way of reassuring the dog. This, however, should not be done since it could aggravate any possible internal injuries. A chain reaction of vomiting and further internal bleeding from severe vomiting spasms could then be brought on.

Every dog owner should become aware of the necessary steps in administering first aid. First aid – promptly administered – can save a dog’s life… and who knows, it may just be your own dog! But always remember, first aid, by itself, is no substitute for professional veterinary care. First aid is emergency aid, and does not replace the need for professional attention.




Related posts:

1. Does Your Dog Need a New Approach – Holistic Dog Health?
]]> http://4petsonline.com/injured-dog/feed/ 0 http://4petsonline.com/dog-choking/ http://4petsonline.com/dog-choking/#comments Mon, 21 Jun 2010 18:05:53 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=4064



Dogs sometimes have a bad habit of putting anything they find inside their mouths. Actually, let me correct that statement, dogs always seem to find a way to put objects in their mouth that do not belong there! They tend to pick up all types of stuff, ranging from balls to rocks, small toys to articles of clothing, basically anything they deem fun to play with.

Unfortunately, there are many times when a dog accidentally swallows these objects and it becomes lodged in his throat. If this object is not removed immediately then there is the chance for the animal to stop breathing and become unconscious.

Since this occurrence is very common with all pets, it would behoove of you to learn the basic moves that it takes to help your dog from choking. This can invariably save the life of your pet.

Below are basic First Aid steps which can come in handy for a choking dog:

If Your Dog Is Choking, But Remains Conscious

1. With two hands, open your dog’s mouth and look inside to see if you can see the object. If you can see it, try your best to remove it.
2. If you cannot see the object, place your dog on its side and elevate the hindquarters.
3. Now place your hand below the rib cage and another on the dog’s back. Press in and then up, all in one fluid motion. Keep pressing until the object is coughed up.
4. If the object does not come up then your dog may become unconscious. If this happens, then follow the steps below.

If Your Dog Becomes Unconscious

1. As stated above, be sure that the dog is placed on his side with elevated hindquarters.
2. Open the airway and be sure the tongue is pulled out as far as possible and placed to the side.
3. Now perform several compressions in the same area that you had attempted to press in the rib cage. After two to three compressions, check the mouth for any foreign objects by using the sweep of your finger.
4. Now give the dog a few breaths.
5. Repeat this cycle of compressions, finger sweeps, and artificial respiration breaths until your dog starts breathing by himself and dislodges the object.




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]]> http://4petsonline.com/dog-choking/feed/ 1 http://4petsonline.com/kitten-care/ http://4petsonline.com/kitten-care/#comments Mon, 21 Jun 2010 13:40:07 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3462
• Your Kitten’s Life: The First Year
• Homemade Kitten Food: Using Homemade Kitten Food for Your Kitten
• How To Raise A Kitten To Be Happy And Healthy
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Even if you’ve had years of experience with adult cats, taking care of a kitten is a whole new world. Kittens eat differently, sleep differently, and need time to adjust to changes both inside their bodies and in the outside world. Learn about a kitten’s basic needs and how to help your kitten grow into a happy, healthy adult cat.

Make Your Home Kitten-Proof

What, exactly, does kitten-proofing entail? Particularly if you already have older cats, what more do you need to do?

For one thing, kittens are much more active and curious than older cats. Like human babies, they often satisfy your curiosity by chewing everything in site. For this reason, you should purchase all-natural cat litter—not the clumping clay variety that is commonly used with older cats.

Another element of kitten-proofing your home is giving the kitten a safe place to be. This need not be an entire room, but it does need to be quiet and closed off from other animals. After a few days, give the kitten and the other animals some closely supervised time to get acquainted. If your new kitten has not been to the vet, keep it quarantined from other animals until you can be certain he doesn’t have any infectious diseases. Give the animals a few weeks to get used to each other and don’t push too hard; before you know it, the safe room will be a thing of the past!

The First Visit to the Vet

The first visit to the vet should take place shortly after you’ve got your kitten, particularly if it was a stray and you do not know its medical history. This is particularly important if you have other household pets that could be infected if the kitten has any communicable diseases. Until you take the new kitten to the vet, you will need to keep him away from the other pets.

At the veterinarian’s office, your kitten will undergo a detailed physical exam. This will include looking at baby teeth to determine age, measuring temperature, palpating organs, listening to the heart, brushing fur for signs of fleas, and checking eyes and ears. After the physical exam is complete, the vet will perform several lab tests, such as:

Fecal float checks for worms

Blood Tests check for FeLV and FIV viruses

Depending on your kitten’s age when you first take her to the vet, she may be vaccinated. Vaccinations take place at 9 to 10 weeks of age. Kittens are given a booster shot at 12–14 weeks and possibly a Rabies vaccine, depending on local laws or if your cat is considered at risk.

Two procedures that may be taken care of at different times are spaying/neutering and declawing. Some vets prefer to spay/neuter at a younger age, as it may be better for the cat. You need to make a separate appointment for this. Unlike spaying and neutering, declawing is a more debatable procedure. Learn more about the benefits and disadvantages of this procedure before you make a final decision.

Social Growth

In his first month and a half of growth, a new kitten experiences tremendous changes. Typically, new cat owners will not bring home a kitten until week 6, when it has been weaned off its mother’s milk. For this reason, typically new kitten owners will be more involved in the social growth than physical growth.

If the mother was comfortable with humans, the kittens will usually learn that behavior and learn to socialize easily with people. However, if your kitten has not become accustomed to being handled by humans by the age of six weeks, it will be difficult to train this behavior later, and the cat may always be somewhat more skittish than others.

Be sure to teach your kitten at a young age that hands are not toys—they feed, pet and hold the kittens.

Introducing Canned Food

Kittens need many more nutrients than adult cats. However; with smaller stomachs they must each more regularly. A six-week-old kitten should have four daily feedings until he reaches 12 weeks of age. From 12 weeks to six months, she can take three daily feedings. After that point, feed your kitten once daily, like other adult cats.

When choosing food, keep your kitten’s health top priority. Do not feed your kitten:

• Table scraps or milk
• Dog food
• adult cat food

All of these may be easy options for you, the pet owner, but the kitten will not receive the nutrients she needs. Instead, feed her a well-balanced diet of food made specifically for developing kittens. Begin with canned food, which is more calorie-laden for energetic kittens. Later on, you can start supplementing with dry food.

Now that you’ve learned the basics of kitten care, bring home your new kitten and enjoy the time you spend together. She’ll be an adult cat before you know it!



Related posts:

1. Your Kitten’s Life: The First Year
2. Homemade Kitten Food: Using Homemade Kitten Food for Your Kitten
3. How To Raise A Kitten To Be Happy And Healthy
]]> http://4petsonline.com/kitten-care/feed/ 0 http://4petsonline.com/green-doggie-bags/ http://4petsonline.com/green-doggie-bags/#comments Sun, 20 Jun 2010 20:02:49 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3448
• Cat Litter Options For Your Pet
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Green Doggie Bags are a product I have been using myself for quite some time. They are “true green” 100% biodegradable and compostable, contain no harmful chemicals and will not degrade with moisture. In fact, I recently learned that in many cities their use is the law.

Fake ‘green’ products often produce residues that are damaging to the environment and wildlife, but I recommend Green Doggie Bags because they are the real deal; nothing fake. In fact Green Doggie Bags transform your good behavior into a positive environmental result. Surely that has to be good!

All Biodegradable Products are NOT Equal

“Biodegradable” is a term loosely used by many companies trick you into thinking their products are “Green”. Most of the time they only mean compostable. The vast majority of Americans don’t have composts in their back yards and there are under 20 municipal facilities in America with the capabilities to compost.

This means that many so called “biodegradable” products actually never biodegrade because they last thousands of years in landfills with conventional plastics.

Green Doggie Bags are completely different! Their products are made with a new generation of bioadditives that break our bag down to their natural components, leaving no harmful chemicals behind.

Cornstarch and oxy-degradable bags are sensitive to heat, moisture, and have expiration dates. This means these products will deteriorate on the ‘shelf’. Green Doggie Bags have no expiration dates which means they will not perish on your ‘shelf’

You can safely recycle their bags with conventional plastics, something you cannot do with ‘so-called’ “biodegradable and compostable” products. So don’t worry about special care, these act and feel just like regular plastic bags, but they won’t be in our landfills 1,000 years from now!

Click the link below to do your bit to help the planet too!



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1. Cat Litter Options For Your Pet
]]> http://4petsonline.com/green-doggie-bags/feed/ 1 http://4petsonline.com/your-cat%e2%80%99s-vaccination-timetable/ http://4petsonline.com/your-cat%e2%80%99s-vaccination-timetable/#comments Sun, 20 Jun 2010 19:07:16 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3442
• Necessary Vaccinations For Puppies
• Parvo in Puppies
• Your Dog Can Be Healthy And Fit
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A vaccine is a substance that is made from dead or living pathogens. It is injected into the body through inoculation (intranasal versions have also recently been developed), which causes the body to create antibodies and, therefore, makes your cat immune to getting the disease in the future.

What vaccines does your cat need, and on what timeline? What are the most common vaccines and what special vaccines may be needed? Find out more about common vaccines, some of the risks, and the appropriate time frame for getting vaccines to keep your cat healthy.

Vaccines

Several years ago, the VAFSTF (Vaccine-Associated Feline Sarcoma Task Force) published a list of vaccines that were highly recommended for all cats. These included:

• Feline Panleukopenia Virus Vaccine (aka “Feline Distemper”)
• Feline Calicivirus
• Rhinotracheitis AKA Feline Herpes Virus
• Rabies Vaccine

While the vaccines above are recommended for the health of all cats, others are more dangerous and present a higher risk of adverse reactions. For this reason, they are recommended only in certain instances. These vaccines include:

Chlamydiosis: Appropriate for households with multiple cats or where chlamydiosis infections have been confirmed, after vet consultation.

Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP): A controversial vaccine, the AAFP (American Association of Feline Practitioners) currently recommends against its use.

Bordetella: A recently-approved vaccine is not yet ready for common use, but may be used for multiple-cat environments on a case-by-case basis.

Gardiasis: This vaccine is in a similar state to that for Bordetella, being too new for general use but can be approved when exposure is clinically significant.

There are many different times when vaccination may not be appropriate, depending on your cat’s health situation. Cats that probably should not be vaccinated include: sick cats (particularly those with weakened immune systems or chronic disease), those receiving cortisone therapy, or kittens under six weeks unless in extreme conditions. Cats over 10 years old typically do not need booster shots. Finally, it is believed that pregnant queens may experience stillbirths as a result of some vaccines.

No matter what the situation, always consult a variety of sources and talk with your veterinarian before making vaccination decisions.

Timeline

Kittens are usually first inoculated between six and eight weeks of age. This first round of shots consists of the FVRCP, which can be a three-in-one shot and vaccinates against feline viral rhinotracheitis (FVR), calicivirus, and panleukopenia virus. A booster round of shots is administered three to four weeks later and booster rounds continue until twelve weeks of age. Rabies shots, however, are not given until twelve weeks of age at the earliest.

If you adopt an older kitten or cat, their initial vaccinations are normally given in one does or two doses that are three to four weeks apart. One dose is given when the vaccine is an MLV, or two doses of a killed virus vaccine are recommended.

Once your cat has been vaccinated, they are usually put on an annual schedule of vaccinations. It is important for you, the pet owner, to keep track of vaccinations. Although your vet’s office will keep records and do their best to remind you, it is ultimately your responsibility to ensure your cat’s best health.

More recently, pet owners and veterinarians have been forgoing an annual vaccination scheme, due to fears about Vaccine-Related Sarcoma. This condition is most often caused by the rabies or FeLV vaccines. Vaccine-related sarcomas occur when cancerous tumors grow at the site of a vaccination. A small, painless lump often develops at the site of a vaccination; in rare cases, however, it progresses to a sarcoma. Pet owners are encouraged to check a vaccination site for several months after the vaccination, and schedule a vet appointment if the swelling has become a solid lump.

If your cat is an animal that spends all his time indoors, forgoing annual vaccinations may be a possibility. However, in general this tactic is not recommended and should only be considered under extenuating circumstances. Even if your cat will not be getting annual vaccinations, you should still bring him in for a check-up and testing. Be sure to thoroughly research any vaccination-related decisions and discuss the advantages and disadvantages with your veterinarian.

Related posts:

1. Necessary Vaccinations For Puppies
2. Parvo in Puppies
3. Your Dog Can Be Healthy And Fit
]]> http://4petsonline.com/your-cat%e2%80%99s-vaccination-timetable/feed/ 0 http://4petsonline.com/beagle/ http://4petsonline.com/beagle/#comments Sun, 20 Jun 2010 18:56:00 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3436
• How Much Exercise Does My Dog Need?
• Bulldog
• Brittany Spaniel (Sporting Group)
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The Beagle is one of those dog breeds that thrives off human companionship. A very amiable animal that was originally bred to be a pack hunter, the Beagle is an enthusiastic adventure seeker. The ideal playtime for this dog would be rummaging and exploring through forests and wooded areas. He absolutely adores his owner and makes a great social house pet.

Although the Beagle needs daily exercise to keep him calm and happy, it does not take much, perhaps 20 to 30 minutes of walking each day. You will find that this dog breed is an excellent house pet who remains gentle and calm, especially around its family members. A perfect choice if you have children in the house, owning a Beagle is a breed which will make you happy and will never stop looking for ways to please you.

Upkeep And Maintenance

As mentioned above, exercise on a daily basis should be a part of the Beagle’s physical upkeep. Take them out for a long walk or a quick run through a safe area in the woods. He particularly loves to scout trails and other small paths. However, be sure not to take this dog out off leash if he has been boarded up in the house for a long time. If he catches the sense of a small animal through a trail, he is liable to dash off and run around for a long period of time, especially if his energy reserves are built up from non-activity.

Health Information

When owning a Beagle, veterinarians suggest that you request specific tests for eye problems, hip dysplasia, potential knee problems, and thyroid. The major health concerns that are widespread with many Beagles is CHD and intervertebral disk disease.

Most Beagles have a long lifespan of between 10 and 15 years but occasionally have minor health issues to watch out for which are cherry eye, epilepsy, glaucoma, patellar luxation, KCS, chondrodysplasia, and hypothyroidism.



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1. How Much Exercise Does My Dog Need?
2. Bulldog
3. Brittany Spaniel (Sporting Group)
]]> http://4petsonline.com/beagle/feed/ 0 http://4petsonline.com/lizards/ http://4petsonline.com/lizards/#comments Sun, 20 Jun 2010 18:46:41 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3430
• The Whale Brain Is Amazing
• Invasive Species
• Dogs Die In Hot Cars – Don’t leave Fido in the car!
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Reptiles, amazingly, have been living on our planet for somewhere around 200 million years. Reptiles are commonly characterized by several features: they have lungs to breathe, they are vertebrates, which means they have a backbone and an internal skeleton, and they are covered with scales or plates of some kind. Reptiles are also considered “cold-blooded” which means that their bodies do not have a thermostat to maintain their temperature; they depend upon the ambient temperature of their environment for body heat.

There are almost 6000 species of reptiles, but the largest group, by far, is the lizards, with somewhere around 3000 currently known species. The majority of lizards are quadrupeds, but there are a few that just have 2 legs and some that don’t have any. Lizards can range in size from 2-inches to 10-feet in length and are the most widespread of the reptiles, geographically speaking. Unlike other classes of reptiles, there are only two poisonous species: the Gila Monster and the Beaded Lizards.

Did you know?

• That Central Americans eat the common iguana? It is called “gallina del palo”, which means “chicken of the tree” and they love the flavor.
• That lizards can sense the difference between night and day by a primitive third eye on top of their heads?
• That the Texas horned lizards can squirt blood, hitting an enemy up to 10-feet away-from their eyes?
• That when threatened, Basilisks, a 4-legged lizard, can actually run on their two hind legs, building up enough speed to run on water?
• That lizards steer with their tail?
• That some lizards’ tongues are actually longer than the length of their body?
• That the Gecko is the only lizard known to have a voice?
• That lizards are able to constrict or dilate their pupils at will, not depending upon light?

It is expected that lizards, as a class, will never become extinct, though individual species may cease to exist. The Komodo Dragon and the Coachella Valley Fringe-toed Lizard are both on the endangered list, as are a number of lizards. Many of them are endangered due to the use of their skin for leather products, while some are just not able to compete with the human for habitat. You can learn more by searching ‘endangered lizard species’.

Along with writing online articles, Joseph enjoys working in his gardens. Garden Harvest Supply is one of his favorite garden sites which offer diatomaceous earth and perma mulch recycled rubber mulch mats.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Joseph_Stutzman

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1. The Whale Brain Is Amazing
2. Invasive Species
3. Dogs Die In Hot Cars – Don’t leave Fido in the car!
]]> http://4petsonline.com/lizards/feed/ 0 http://4petsonline.com/dog-snake-and-insect-bites/ http://4petsonline.com/dog-snake-and-insect-bites/#comments Wed, 16 Jun 2010 14:14:48 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3410
• Australian Finds 10ft Python in Toilet
• Invasive Species
• Cure Your Dogs Biting Problem
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When your dog is having fun running around in nature’s great outdoors, there is always a good possibility that he will be bit by bugs or even a snake, as well as stung by creatures like scorpions and bees.

Most of these outdoor injuries are minor and although your dog may experience some discomfort, these small bites and stings will pass after a day or two. But if you are a little more concerned about your dog safety and the possibility that he may be suffering more pain than he lets on, the following information can help you prepare for these types of injuries:

When your dog is stung or bitten by insects

Most insect bites are just a minor annoyance to a dog, similar to how it feels when you or I get bit by a mosquito. There is just a small red spot with some swelling, but life goes on, and after a day or so, the bite mark subsides. On the other hand, if your dog is allergic to the bite or sting that he experiences, this may cause a severe reaction that is often proved to be life-threatening. You’ll know if your dog is allergic to specific types of insect bites and stings if he is showing such conditions as joint pain, vomiting, swelling, diarrhea, and fever.

On the extreme side, if your dog is highly allergic to any number of bug bites and stings, there is the possibility that he will go into respiratory failure. If this does happen, there is a real chance that he could die within minutes. There is a term for this reaction and it is called “anaphylaxis” which requires the immediate attention of your veterinarian.

When your dog is bitten by a snake

Snake bites are rare in most locations but in some areas where there is an abundance of bushes and trees, and even streams of water, snakes may pose a serious threat to your dog. The good news is that most makes are not poisonous and many dogs suffer only mild pain for a few days after being bitten. However, there are those venomous snakes which can cause severe illness if your dog is bitten by one.

How can you tell if the snakes in your area are poisonous? You will know if you are living around poisonous snakes by reading the following basic guidelines:

1. In North America, most of the snakes that are solid in color or have stripes that run down the entire length of their body are considered to be nonpoisonous.

2. Poisonous snakes in North America include water moccasins, cottonmouths, rattlesnakes, and copperheads. Most of the snakes will display stripes of color that run around their body. Blotchy color patterns are also signs of a venomous snake. And of course, the classic diamondback design on a snake is a most definitely a poisonous threat to your dog.



Related posts:

1. Australian Finds 10ft Python in Toilet
2. Invasive Species
3. Cure Your Dogs Biting Problem
]]> http://4petsonline.com/dog-snake-and-insect-bites/feed/ 0 http://4petsonline.com/walking-your-dog-its-great-exercise/ http://4petsonline.com/walking-your-dog-its-great-exercise/#comments Wed, 16 Jun 2010 13:52:33 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3403
• How Much Exercise Does My Dog Need?
• Getting Started With A Dog Walking Business
• Long Island Dog Walking Hoax Be Weary – Three Crucial Tips.
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Did you know that your dog will become inactive, dull, and overweight if he is confined inside your home for long periods of time? Not only that, but he is also likely to develop some type of behavioral problem like excessive barking or chewing, and will have a tendency to develop an aggressive, destructive behavior. Therefore, exercise is not only important because it keeps your dog happy, it is vital for your dog’s physical well-being, as well as his mental health.

Exercise is also an excellent approach for you to bond and spend some quality time with your beloved pal. In addition, exercising your dog is also a great benefit for you personally to stay fit, active, and get your heart pumping. So all in all, exercise is an activity that can benefit both you and your dog and is part of the joy of being a dog owner.

Walking

A simple exercise that you and your dog can enjoy is walking. Your dog requires daily exercise, and walking is an excellent activity that both you and your canine friend can be a part of.

The slow, gentle movement of walking helps you and your dog in several ways: It tones your muscles, provides oxygen to your heart, and is beneficial to your lungs. If your dog is not used to walking or if he is a little overweight, start him off with a short 15 minute walk. Slowly built up the pace as he gets more used to it.

If you are the type of person who loves to just go out for a walk and feel the breath of fresh air, then a 1-2 mile of daily walk is all it takes to keep your dog fit, and maybe even more if you are up for the challenge. Your dog will certainly love it, especially if you have one with a high level of energy.

However, if you do not have the time for long walks, or maybe the idea of walking for 2 miles is simply not your idea of fun, then your dog will be just as happy if you can only take him for a quick walk around the block twice a day.



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2. Getting Started With A Dog Walking Business
3. Long Island Dog Walking Hoax Be Weary – Three Crucial Tips.
]]> http://4petsonline.com/walking-your-dog-its-great-exercise/feed/ 0 http://4petsonline.com/border-collie/ http://4petsonline.com/border-collie/#comments Tue, 15 Jun 2010 14:01:04 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3951
• Bearded Collie
• Border Terrier (Terrier Group)
• Anatolian Shepherd (working group)
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The Border Collie has been bred for over 100 years with functionality as the number one priority. These sheep herding dogs were abundant in Great Britain during the 1800s, however they were made up of different types. Most of these dogs were considered to be “fetching” dogs who had the ability to circle stock and guide them back towards the shepherd.

Sheepdogs (as the Border Collies were called) became very popular and in 1873 the first official sheepdog trial took place to test the qualities and function of the animals. This led to one of the first famous Border Collies known as “Hemp”.

Hemp did very well at the trials and sired a high number of offspring. In fact, he is considered to be the father of the Border Collie. Hemp’s way of herding was done with intimidation, using eye contact with the livestock.

Although these dogs were very popular and functioned superbly at their sheepdog abilities, it wasn’t until 1915 that “Border Collie” was officially announced as the proper name for the breed. And as soon as the Border Collie came to America they were instantly appraised by serious shepherds who needed the animal’s magnificent herding abilities. Amazingly enough, it took until the year 1995 for the AKC to officially recognize the Border Collie as a show dog.

Personality

As far as temperament is concerned, Border Collie dogs have enormous amounts of intelligence and is highly obedient. While these attributes are positive, it can make for a disastrous house dog when kept enclosed with little exercise. Border Collies are very loyal and protective towards its family, so be prepared for its reserved and guardian-like personality to spring up when in the company of strange dogs and other animals.

Taking Care Of Your Border Collie

This is one dog that thrives off of physical and mental stimulation each and every day. You can easily say that the border collie simply “needs a job to do” whenever possible. He is extremely work-oriented and genetically programmed for labor.

Border Collie dogs can certainly live outdoors in very mild to cool climates, but of course it prefers and enjoys the company of its family inside the house, especially at night. This is one animal that should not be forced to live in a small apartment.

Health Information

Border Collie’s have a lifespan of up to 15 years, with 12 being the average. Fortunately, this dog breed does not have many health problems that arise. Major concerns are only CHD. Minor health issues that may come up are hypothyroidism, PRA, PDA, CEA, seizures, OCD, and lens luxation, but these occurrences are extremely rare.

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3. Anatolian Shepherd (working group)
]]> http://4petsonline.com/border-collie/feed/ 0 http://4petsonline.com/bloodhound/ http://4petsonline.com/bloodhound/#comments Tue, 15 Jun 2010 13:33:54 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3944
• Black and Tan Coonhound (Hound Group)
• Borzoi (Hound Group)
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Although the bloodhound is one of those dogs that has a lazy facial expression and is often found lying around the house, do not let these characteristics fool you. This dog can be an extremely focused and energetic tracker once he catches a trail scent. And the bloodhound is known to be very independent, tough, and often times a bit stubborn. However, he is also one of the most gentle dog breeds a family can have under their roof.

Bloodhounds are not considered to be the most easiest of training dogs, however, if you want to teach your dog about trailing tasks, the bloodhound is the number one choice. When it comes to being a family pet, this dog can be a friendly companion to have around the house. whom fair well with children.

Upkeep And Maintenance

Due to its programed genetics for hunting, the bloodhound does need an average amount of daily exercise. And although it spends most of its time being lazy and sleeping in the yard, its energy reserves can get put in full motion when on the trail. And be sure that when you are training the bloodhound he is in a safe area and cannot wander off as they some times do when their attention is focused on something.

Because of its large facial features and heavy wrinkles, the bloodhound needs to be groomed on daily basis. You must give extra cleaning care to the ears and the flaps around the eyes and gums. When it comes to its short-haired coat, upkeep is typically minimal, with just the occasional brushing now and again.

The bloodhound can be the ideal indoor or outdoor pet. And although it prefers mild temperatures, it can withstand hotter climates so long as there is plenty of shade and soft bedding to rest in. For those of you who are obsessed with a clean house, make note that the bloodhound can be a bit on the messy side.

Health Information

Since the bloodhound is a larger breed than most other dogs, its lifespan only lasts between seven and ten years. The major health concerns that are typical in this breed are CHD, gastric torsion, ectropion, otitis externa, elbow dysplasia, and skin-fold dermatitis. Minor issues in which you should ask your veterinarian to look out for is hypothyroidism.

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]]> http://4petsonline.com/bloodhound/feed/ 0 http://4petsonline.com/hip-displacia/ http://4petsonline.com/hip-displacia/#comments Mon, 14 Jun 2010 21:13:34 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3934
• What Is Canine Hip Dysplasia?
• Arthritis Treatment for Dogs
• Cat Litter Options For Your Pet
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One of the most difficult tasks facing a veterinarian is how to manage hip dysplasia. There are several modes of therapy available, but only the most commonly accepted techniques will be discussed.

1. Maintenance: This is non-surgical management and consists of rest and restricted exercise, pain relievers, and anti-inflammatory drugs. Its best use is in mild cases or in dogs who are poor surgical risks.

2. Hip Join Reconstruction: This is extensive bone surgery with the ultimate goal of returning the hip joint to a normal anatomical relation. It is quite difficult to perform and often must be referred to an orthopedic surgeon. Surgery to correct hip dysplasia works best in young dogs before arthritis of the joint has become a problem. The techniques include pelvic osteotomy, acetabuloplasty, and varus osteotomy.

3. Joint Replacement: Older animals may benefit from surgery in this classification. The “ball” part of the joint is either replaced with a synthetic ball or removed entirely. Synthetic replacement has not been very successful to date. Removal of the femoral head eliminates its bone contact with the pelvis and, eliminates the pain.

Prevention

Any disease with a hereditary component can be at least partially controlled by selective breeding and studies thus far have been very rewarding. A nonprofit organization, the Orthopedic Foundation For Animals (O.F.A.), has been engaged in the study of orthopedic diseases since 1966.

Their program for the control of dysplasia is centered on x-ray evaluation of the hips. Three independent veterinary radiologists interpret every film sent to the foundation. If the joints appear normal, an O.F.A. Certification number is given. If any degree of dysplasia is found, the owner and his veterinarian are notified. Dogs showing any degree of dysplasia should not be used for breeding.

Large-breed owners should insist on a radiographic evaluation of the hip joints of any dogs to be used for breeding, whether male or female. Anyone who has suffered with a growing pup afflicted with this crippling disease can appreciate the importance of this type of control program. It should be noted that the O.F.A. certified parents may produce dysplastic offspring, but the incidence is greatly reduced.

Since the treatment of hip dysplasia is far from satisfactory in many cases, restrictive breeding remains as our best weapon for exterminating this disease.

See also:

• Nutramax Cosequin DS Double-Strength Chewable Tablets Reviewed
• What Is Canine Hip Dysplasia?

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2. Arthritis Treatment for Dogs
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]]> http://4petsonline.com/hip-displacia/feed/ 1 http://4petsonline.com/hip-dysplacia/ http://4petsonline.com/hip-dysplacia/#comments Mon, 14 Jun 2010 20:29:31 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3927
• Canine Hip Dysplasia Treatment & Prevention Options
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The growing popularity of larger breeds of dogs has brought with it a threat of a crippling disease of the hip joints known as hip dysplasia.

This disease was first described in the United States back in the 1930s. Research has produced abundant information on hip dysplasia, but many questions still remain unanswered. It is one of the most popular topics discussed among owners, breeders, and veterinarians.

Hip dysplasia is uncommon in small dogs (toys and miniatures), as well as Greyhounds, but it has been found in almost every breed. The disease is an improper development of the hip joint (properly called the coxofemoral joint) which leads to looseness of the joint, partial dislocation (subluxation), and finally, arthritis.

Basically, the hip is a ball-and-socket type of joint. If the socket is too shallow, or the ball to flattened, the result is an unstable joint which tends to come out of place.

The most commonly affected breeds are: German Shepherd, St. Bernard, Labrador Retriever, Boxer, Springer Spaniel, Great Dane, and the Bull Mastiff. This is by no means a complete or accurate list, since incidence depends a lot on breed popularity.

That is to say, it is possible that the Komondor or Great Pyrenees breeds have a high incidence of dysplasia, but, when the average veterinary clinic sees one of either breed every two to three years, how can an accurate breed incidence be determined?

Dysplasia is the most common disorder of the hips that a veterinarian will encounter in practice. Because it is considered to involve several genes, more work is necessary to establish the exact means of inheritance. Other factors, such as rapid growth, management, nutrition, hormones, and anatomic variations have been put forth as construing causes, but thus far selective breeding has given the best results in controlling hip dysplasia.

Clinical Signs Of Hip Dysplasia

The clinical signs range from a normal dog to one that cannot walk more than a few steps without collapsing. The usual course is that of lameness following strenuous exercise or difficulty arising after prolonged rest.

The gait is often diagnostic and is characterized by waddling, slinking, or “cow hocks” (toes pointed out, hocks pointed toward each other). Any larger breed of dog with a history of hind leg lameness should have hip dysplasia eliminated as the cause before extensive investigation of other diseases is undertaken.

A radiograph of the pelvis is necessary for accurate diagnosis of the disease. This is best performed under anesthesia to ensure proper positioning of the dog. Unless the animal is motionless and symmetrically placed on the x-ray table, a good evaluation of the hip joints cannot be made, especially in mild cases.

See also:

• Nutramax Cosequin DS Double-Strength Chewable Tablets Reviewed

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1. Canine Hip Dysplasia Treatment & Prevention Options
2. Dog Training and Canine Eyesight
3. Canine Lymphoma
]]> http://4petsonline.com/hip-dysplacia/feed/ 2 http://4petsonline.com/are-pet-food-manufacturers-killing-your-dog/ http://4petsonline.com/are-pet-food-manufacturers-killing-your-dog/#comments Sun, 13 Jun 2010 17:23:40 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3388
• What Is A Dog Food Recall?
• Problems With Commercial Dog Food
• Commercial Dog Food Can Be Dangerous – Is Your Dog Food Safe?
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We all want the best for our beloved dogs, especially when it comes to the foods they eat. We want to give them only the healthiest food available to make sure that they will live a long and healthy life. But what if the so-called “healthy pet foods” that are being sold in the market today are not reliable anymore?

What do we do when we can no longer trust the food manufacturers who is supposed to provide us with safe and healthy foods for our animals?

When The Food Is Killing Your Pets, Something Has To Change

The several recent widespread recalls of pet food has created a scare for all dog and cat owners who rely on commercial brands to feed their pets. All over the country, contaminated pet food has caused many dogs to become severely sick, while a large number of them have actually died.

In March 2007, Menu foods, an Ontario based manufacturing company, recalled over 60 million containers of food after numerous animals became ill and died from eating them. One of the most disturbing aspects is the illusion of superiority it has shattered for buyers of expensive pet-foods because Menu Foods manufactures both low cost and high end pet food products. It supplies pet food for 17 of the top 20 North American retailers, including PetSmart, Safeway, Wal-Mart, Winn-Dixie, Wegmans Pet Valu, Kroger, and Ahold USA. It is also a contract manufacturer of branded pet food products, manufacturing for five of the top six branded companies in North America, including Procter & Gamble, for which it is the exclusive supplier of canned wet pet food sold under the Iams brand, P&G having sold its South Dakota plant to Menu Foods in 2003. Menu Foods also produces Loblaws’ President’s Choice, A&P’s Master Choice, Sobeys’s Compliments, Safeway’s Select, Eukanuba, and Nutro.

In all, 53 brands of dog food and 42 brands of cat food were affected.

How did this happen? A combination of greed and laziness was to blame. It was later discovered that wheat gluten, an ingredient found in the pet foods, was contaminated with rat poison. The risk of Salmonella contamination has also been the cause of a recall for two brands of pig’s ear dog treats.

Cases of toxic pet foods go back to December of 2005, when several dogs died and dozens fell ill after eating kibble manufactured by Diamond Pet Foods. It was later found out that the food was contaminated with aflatoxin; a naturally occurring chemical produced from fungus and can be found on crops such as wheat, corn, rice, and beans. This chemical is also toxic to domestic animals, livestock, and even humans. Other pet food recalls during this past decade also involve the risk for Salmonella contamination.

Are These Pet Food Companies Breaking The Law?

FDA regulations state that pet foods should be manufactured similarly to the way human foods are manufactured. They should be processed under a sanitary environment, should not contain any harmful ingredients, should be accurately labeled, and safe to eat.

Commercial brands of pet foods are not beholden to the same FDA labeling requirements as human foods and due to very limited resources, the FDA can only inspect pet food issues after consumer complaints are made, or if the FDA has a reason to believe that there is a threat to animal health. A recall is then announced by the FDA or the manufacturer if a defective product is found.

Earlier this year the FDA launched an online database devoted to Pet Food Recalls. This represents a huge step forward because concerned pet owners will now be able to monitor this database regularly.

Andrew Lewis, a concerned consumer who lost his beloved dog to kidney failure due to a diet of commercial pet food, has subsequently devoted several years to intensive research of the commercial pet food industry. He has written reports and books and created several in-depth videos. To read his material >>>Click Here<<<

World-famous vet and dog-care author Alfred Plechner, says the poor nutritional properties of commercial dog food inevitably lead to disease.

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2. Problems With Commercial Dog Food
3. Commercial Dog Food Can Be Dangerous – Is Your Dog Food Safe?
]]> http://4petsonline.com/are-pet-food-manufacturers-killing-your-dog/feed/ 1 http://4petsonline.com/cat-health/ http://4petsonline.com/cat-health/#comments Sun, 13 Jun 2010 14:49:46 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3382
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Never gamble with your cat’s health. While it is important to treat cat diseases as soon as you recognize the symptoms, it is best to leave the diagnosis and treatment to a veterinarian. If you have any doubt about your cats health, call the veterinarian immediately. Somehow cats have gotten the reputation that they hide all the time or are constantly skittish.

While most cats will run and hide at the first sign of danger, that is because they are afraid. As soon as they become secure in their surroundings, they have less reason to be scared. Cats really do not run and hide. They are more likely to do the following:

1. Play, act curious, attentive, alert, sniff things, including the air
2. Have a good appetite, show interest in food (remember that kittens are always hungry)
3. Enjoy being around other cats and people, show interest in family activities
4. Use the litter box faithfully
5. Groom themselves several times a day
6. Walk and jump with balance and coordination
7. Scratch the scratching post several times a day
8. Seldom show aggression
9. Occasionally run and pounce on imaginary things

Signs of illness: Even healthy cats occasionally get sick. Below are 20 common symptoms of illness that warrant immediate attention from the vet.

1. Urinates outside the litter box
2. Has blood in his urine
3. Frequently misses meals or exhibits a change in appetite
4. Is constantly thirsty
5. Shows unprovoked aggression or sudden change in mood
6. Acts lethargic or withdrawn
7. Has labored or irregular breathing
8. Sneezes, wheezes or coughs
9. Has white gums
10. Has pus around eyes or nose
11. Over grooms or losing hair
12. Stops grooming
13. Trembles, shakes or feels feverish
14. If a kitten vomits or has diarrhea, or if an adult cat has chronic vomiting or diarrhea
15. Frequently cries or whimpers
16. Constant body odor
17. Has lumps, swelling or open sores
18. Obsessively scratches at ears
19. Licks around the anus (veterinarian can check to see if anal glands are impacted)
20. Walks with his head tilted to one side

Finding a good vet: Cats hate going to the vet. The first step towards making veterinarian visits go well is finding a good doctor. Vets that will not declaw are highly recommended. Quite often, veterinarians who refuse to declaw are more in tune with and concerned about your cat’s needs.

Look for veterinarians who describe themselves as “alternative,” “holistic” or “old-fashioned.” When you call, ask about their position on declawing. See if they are knowledgeable about natural or home remedies, not just antibiotics, antidepressants, tranquilizers or steroids.

Ask what they charge. Prices for the same procedures can vary by more than 100%.

When you call a vet you are considering, see how patient and receptive he or she is to your concerns. Check the atmosphere of the place, if the people in the office seem uninterested or authoritarian, find another vet.



Related posts:

1. Preventing Dental Disease is Critical for the Health of Your Dog
2. Does Your Dog Need a New Approach – Holistic Dog Health?
3. Crucial Dog Health Diagnosis
]]> http://4petsonline.com/cat-health/feed/ 1 http://4petsonline.com/5-houseplants-toxic-to-cats/ http://4petsonline.com/5-houseplants-toxic-to-cats/#comments Thu, 10 Jun 2010 19:15:04 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3358
• 10 things found in your home that can kill your dog
• Why Do Cats Come To Visit My Two Spayed Female Cats?
• What Are Rendering Plants and How Do They Affect Your Cats’ Food?
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There are many common household plants, both indoor and outdoor, that are poisonous to cats. Several of these plants can cause your beloved cat to become quite ill, including vomiting, diarrhea, and convulsions. In some cases, these plants can cause your pet to have complete respiratory failure, kidney failure, or other fatal illness. For this reason, it is important to assist your cat immediately if it eats a toxic plant.

Lilies

Perhaps the most toxic and common form of plant that can be fatal to your cat are lilies. Pretty much every form of lily can cause death to your pet. This includes the Tiger lily, the Easter lily, the Japanese show lily, the Rubrum lily and the Day lily. If your cat ingests any part of one of these plants, even a small amount, it will result in complete kidney failure in about 36 to 72 hours.

After ingesting a lily, your cat will begin to show symptoms within a few hours. Symptoms include a lack of appetite, lethargy, and vomiting. As the damage to the kidneys worsens, the symptoms will become worse. If your cat has ingested any part of a lily plant, it will need prompt attention from a veterinarian in order to prevent kidney failure.

Lily of the valley

Although the name of this plant has “lily” in it, it is not the same as the lilies already discussed. Nonetheless, this small, sweet smelling flower is also toxic to your feline friend. If your cat eats any part of the Lily of the valley, it can eventually die from cardiac dysrhythmias.

After eating a portion of a Lily of the valley, your cat might start to vomit and diarrhea. It also may show signs of confusion and weakness and even collapse prior to death. If you are certain your pet has eaten a part of a Lily of the valley, you should induce vomiting (as discussed later) and administer activated charcoal, which will help soak up the toxins and prevent them from getting further into your pet’s bloodstream. You should then take your pet to see a vet to ensure its safety.

Foxglove

Foxglove, also known commonly by its Latin name Digitalis, is also potentially fatal to a cat if eaten. Not only is the entire foxglove plant toxic, so is the water from the vase if the plant is cut and brought indoors.

If your cat ingests foxglove, it may begin to vomit and salivate excessively. Its pulse may become slow and strong early after ingestion, then later become rapid and weak. Ingestion of foxglove causes cardiac disturbance that can lead to hypotension, collapse, and shock, which can ultimately lead to death. (More on how to treat shock in your cat will be discussed later). The pupils of your cat may become dilated after eating foxglove and you cat may become delirious before slipping into a coma. While some of the symptoms of foxglove poisoning can be treated at home, your pet still needs to be taken to the vet to flush the foxglove out of its system and to help regulate its heart.

Monkshood

All parts of the monkshood plant, including the water in its vase, are toxic. Contents of the monkshood plant cause disruption in the nerve impulses when ingested in low doses. When ingested in large doses, it completely inhibits these nerves. Monkshood also causes irritation to the mucus membranes when ingested, which can lead to vomiting and excessive salivation. Some animals appear to go blind after eating monkshood, which is followed by cardiac dysrhythmias and death. Your cat needs to visit the vet right away in order to recover from monkshood poisoning.

Anemone

The entire anemone plant is toxic. It is irritating to the mucous membranes and often causes blisters to form after it is chewed. If it is ingested entirely, hemorrhagic gastroenteritis can occur, which can lead to shock, convulsions, and death. If your pet ingests anemone, administer activated charcoal and see the vet immediately.

Help for your cat: Inducing vomiting

Inducing vomiting is generally appropriate after your cat ingests any toxic plant. To do this, mix 1 teaspoon of Hydrogen Peroxide with one cup of water and administer it to your cat. Or you can mix 1-2 tablespoons of salt with one cup of water or administer ½ mil of Syrup of Ipecac per pound of your cat. Of course, the vet should still be contacted immediately.

What to do for shock

If a cat is in shock, its heartbeat might be escalated. Or, it might have an irregular pulse or a very little pulse. In addition, its tongue might appear to be curled and its gums might be pale and have very little color. When a cat experiences shock its body temperature is often below normal.

A cat that is in shock needs to be seen immediately by a vet so it can have medication and intravenous fluids administered. While driving to the vet, it is best to have someone hold the cat and try to sooth it along the way. The cat should be kept warm, as loss of heat only increases the severity of the shock.


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1. 10 things found in your home that can kill your dog
2. Why Do Cats Come To Visit My Two Spayed Female Cats?
3. What Are Rendering Plants and How Do They Affect Your Cats’ Food?
]]> http://4petsonline.com/5-houseplants-toxic-to-cats/feed/ 0 http://4petsonline.com/cats/ http://4petsonline.com/cats/#comments Thu, 10 Jun 2010 18:28:44 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3347
• Dogs Die In Hot Cars – Don’t leave Fido in the car!
• Why Do Cats Come To Visit My Two Spayed Female Cats?
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Cats are very susceptible to becoming overheated. Think about it for a minute – they spend their entire day walking around inside a heavy fur coat, even on very hot days. A cat that is not accustomed to the outdoors is particularly susceptible to becoming overheated. If this happens, the cat runs the risk of having a heatstroke.

A cat that is acclimated to the outdoors is more likely to be able to handle excessive heat. Nonetheless, all cats can have problems if the weather becomes to hot and they don’t have a means to cool down.

Signs of Heat Problems:

Cats show many different signs of trouble when they become overheated. For example, a cat may begin panting rapidly. Eventually, it may even become unresponsive. In addition, the cat’s gums may turn bright red when it becomes too hot. If the cat begins to vomit excessively or have diarrhea, it may be overheated. To test for heat trouble on a cat, the pet owner can gently pinch the scruff of the neck. If the scruff stays in an upright position after being pinched, it is getting dehydrated.

If a cat is experiencing heat stroke, it may also be lethargic and have difficulty getting up and down. In addition, its body temperature may become very high. A cat that is experiencing heat stroke may even have seizures or seem depressed.

Treating an Overheated Cat

The best way to treat an overheated cat is prevention. If, however, it does become overheated and shows any of these discussed symptoms, it should be taken to the vet immediately. While the cat is being transported to the vet, a damp towel should be wrapped around it to help cool it down. In addition, a water bottle with a mixture of water and Bach’s rescue remedy is good to have on hand. This mixture should be sprayed on the cat if it begins to have a heat stroke because it will help to lessen the cat’s stress.

Before taking the cat to the vet, it might be a good idea to bring it inside and give it cool water to drink and a cool bath to initially bring its body temperature down. With true heat stroke, it can be difficult to reverse the physiological effects. In many cases, the cat will require an IV of fluids and intensive monitoring and treatment.

Preventing Overheating

The main way to prevent overheating for outdoor cats is to be sure plenty of fresh water is available and that shaded areas are accessible to the cat. Fresh water is particularly important for cats, as they generally have little trouble finding a shaded area.

For indoor cats, temperatures can still become excessive. Of course, the best option is to have air conditioning in the home in order to keep both the owner and the cat cool. If this isn’t a possibility, indoor fans can offer the ventilation necessary to keep the cat cool. Ceiling fans are ideal, as cats can knock down floor fans. In addition, cats can usually easily stick their paws through the screen of floor fans. If a floor fan is the only option, it should be secured in some fashion and placed in an area difficult for the cat to reach, such as being mounted to the wall.

For both indoor and outdoor cats with long hair, it might be a good idea to trim the cat’s fur in the summer to help keep it cool. In addition, a black cat is at greater risk of overheating than a white cat because the black fur absorbs heat.

In addition to having several dishes of water available for outside cats, it can also be a good idea to place piles of ice cubes or chips outside for the cat to eat. Or, ice cubes or chips can be placed inside the water bowls to help make the water more refreshing and to encourage the cat to drink. A cup of Gatorade added to the bowl of water can also be helpful in keeping the cat’s electrolytes level high and preventing dehydration.

Indoor cats should have a cool place to relax. It can be helpful to leave a little water inside bathtubs or sinks so the cat can play in the water to cool off. Even though the cat is indoors, it is a good idea to leave more than one water bowl inside for it to drink from in order to cool down. Also, the shades should be kept drawn to prevent outside heat from the sun from coming in.


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1. Dogs Die In Hot Cars – Don’t leave Fido in the car!
2. Why Do Cats Come To Visit My Two Spayed Female Cats?
]]> http://4petsonline.com/cats/feed/ 0 http://4petsonline.com/adopt-a-service-dog/ http://4petsonline.com/adopt-a-service-dog/#comments Thu, 10 Jun 2010 18:05:03 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3339
• How To Adopt A Shelter Dog
• Are You Looking To Bring a Canine Friend into Your Home? Visit a Shelter to Adopt a Puppy
• Breeding Labrador Retrievers
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If you’re lucky enough to be purchasing a dog that was trained to provide a service for people, or a least adopting a dog that was accepted for such training but did not make it for some reason, you are in for a special treat. Most people aren’t even aware that such dogs exist.

What type of pets are we talking about? Any dog that was trained for or actually worked a “career” by leading the blind and helping other disabled people is a prime example.

You Have 3 Choices Of Service Dogs To Choose From

When looking to adopt a professionally trained career dog, your choices come in three different forms: dogs that are retired from being guides, “career changing” dogs, and finally, there are the canines that for some reason did not make it through the training program, or simply put – flunkies.

Guide Dogs No More: Just like people, service dogs cannot work their jobs forever. As these animals get older, they become slower and are no longer effective in helping their owners. The average amount of time that a service dog can work is approximately 8 years. At this point they become prime candidates for adoption by people like you and me.

Dogs That Had Multiple Careers: Many dogs can be taken out of one service job and then trained for another. The reasons for this can vary. It may be because of temperament issues, medical concerns, or perhaps a dog was just not a suitable match for its owner. For example, a dog may be retired from guide service and then prepared and transferred to work at a rehabilitation hospital or a nursery home. Sometimes these types of animals are even assigned to children’s homeless centers in order to play with the kids.

Just Didn’t Make The Cut: Finally, we have our flunkies. Now before you consider a flunky to be a negative thing, reconsider that notion because quite the opposite is true. Thousands of dogs are trained every year by organizations which lead them into service jobs.

Not all of these dogs make the cut and move on to work with people. They are considered flunkies for whatever reason, whether it is from temperament problems, health problems, or perhaps were a little too excitable for service work. However, the important aspect to remember here is that these dogs are still a cut above any other pet you may find elsewhere.

Just to get accepted into these types of programs for training preparation means they already had natural first-class qualities and characteristics which made them ideal candidates. These dogs are typically between the ages of one and two years old. Most are very gentle and loving and have had some type of extensive obedience training during the beginning of the program.


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1. How To Adopt A Shelter Dog
2. Are You Looking To Bring a Canine Friend into Your Home? Visit a Shelter to Adopt a Puppy
3. Breeding Labrador Retrievers
]]> http://4petsonline.com/adopt-a-service-dog/feed/ 0 http://4petsonline.com/basset-hound/ http://4petsonline.com/basset-hound/#comments Thu, 10 Jun 2010 17:34:41 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3334
• Afghan Hound
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• Bloodhound (Hound group)
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Although we cannot pinpoint the exact time period in history when the Basset Hound was created, historians have noted that the first mention of this dog was found within 16th-century text that made reference to “short-legged dogs used for badger hunting”.

We also know that similar dwarf breeds that had short legs were used in ancient times, but it is quite difficult to zero in on exactly when and why the Bassett Hound was purposely bred.

The word “Basset” is French and is derived from bas, meaning “dwarf”. We know that short-legged dogs were used for slower-paced hunting during the French Revolution. History of this dog breed shows a much clearer picture after the revolution.

It was at this time that Basset Hounds became more and more common as a hunting companion. Hunters needed a dog that was skilled enough with its scent ability to hunt prey, yet was slow enough so that they could be followed and hunted with guns. This is where having its small dwarf-like body became the perfect hunting recipe for these needs.

Eventually, four different versions of the short-legged kind were created. One of these versions, the Basset Artesien Normand, is what closely resembles today’s Basset Hound. During the late 1800s and then again around 1930, crosses were made with Bloodhounds to bring up their size. The first Basset Hounds were brought to England and the United States during the late 1800s.

Personality

You will find that the Basset Hound is one of the most laid-back and relaxed dog breeds alive. They are extremely amiable with virtually every other animal and human they come into contact with. The Basset is extremely suited for children and is well behaved even in the company of strange dogs. Although high in affection levels and friendliness, do not underestimate its watchdog abilities. These Hounds made excellent watchdogs.

Taking Care Of Your Basset Hound

Basset Hounds need a bit of daily exercise, but not too much. One or two daily walks on the leash around your neighborhood will suffice. However, like any animal, it is always beneficial for extra playtime and games when possible. Basset Hounds should always sleep indoors with the family at night, but during the day having access to an enclosed yard is recommended. Grooming is minimal, with standard brushing and bath times during the week, but make note that these dogs do tend to drool often.

Health Information

Basset Hounds have a lifespan of between 9 and 12 years, sometimes longer, depending on good health. Major health concerns are ectropion, vWD, CHD, gastric torsion, OCD, thrombopathy, otitis externa, and elbow dysplasia. Minor issues include patellar luxation. Obesity is often a problem with these dogs when owners overfeed them, so put caution on how much food you provide.



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2. Borzoi (Hound Group)
3. Bloodhound (Hound group)
]]> http://4petsonline.com/basset-hound/feed/ 0 http://4petsonline.com/win-a-housecat-housecall-dvd-and-purina-cat-chow-coupon-worth-up-to-11/ http://4petsonline.com/win-a-housecat-housecall-dvd-and-purina-cat-chow-coupon-worth-up-to-11/#comments Wed, 09 Jun 2010 18:53:30 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3321
• The Ancient Lion-Like Dog Breed of China, The Chow Chow
• The Chow Chow
• Chow Chow
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Do you watch the hit reality based TV series Housecat Housecall, presented by Purina® Cat Chow®?

We are giving away two Season 2 DVDs, plus two coupons for Purina® Cat Chow® or Purina® Kitten Chow®, each worth up to $11.00.

To enter, just send us a story about your cat or kitten. It can be funny, endearing, exasperating, anything Just make it entertaining and at least 100 words long. The best submissions will be published on this blog and the two winning entries will be announced here on July 5th.

Send all entries to: purinacompetition@4petsonline.com Entries will close at midnight CST June 30th.

The third season of Housecat Housecall began on June 5th on Animal Planet, providing cat owning families with resolutions for addressing their various cat behavioral concerns. This new season features an exciting and diverse group of cat lovers including a legenday Broadway performer, a Major League Baseball manager and producer, choreographer and celebrity television judge, Carrie Ann Inoba, from the hit show Dancing With the Stars.

New episodes will air on Saturdays at 10:30 AM E/P and repeat on Sundays at 8:00 AM. It is hosted by popular TV personality and Australian veterinarian Dr. Katrina Warren. Each week Dr. Warren will visit cat-owning homes, observe the cats in their home environments and recommend problem solving solutions to their owners.

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]]> http://4petsonline.com/win-a-housecat-housecall-dvd-and-purina-cat-chow-coupon-worth-up-to-11/feed/ 2 http://4petsonline.com/basenji/ http://4petsonline.com/basenji/#comments Sat, 05 Jun 2010 17:34:35 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3307
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The Basenji is one of the oldest and most primitive of all dog breeds. This animal was discovered by Pygmy hunters in the lands of the African Congo. The early tribes used them as pack hunters which helped drive small game into net traps.

England started to see Basenji dogs brought to their lands during the 1800s and into the 1900s, but most of them did not survive due to distemper. However, sometime during the mid-1930s, quite a few Basenji’s for successfully brought to England and became the basis for all future breeds that took place outside of Africa.

It was at this time when the term “Basenji” was made the official name of this particular dog breed. It means “bush thing”. More and more of these dogs were imported to England and eventually they came to America.

The Basenji started to grow in popularity at a rapid pace and became a very common household pet. Eventually, fanciers of this breed began entering them into dog shows, which soon influenced a Basenji-based book and even a Hollywood movie which starred the dog.

Personality

Basenji dogs are considered to be extremely feisty and often display behaviors that are similar to Terriers. They are very smart, inquisitive, clever, and stubborn at times. Many dog enthusiasts compare them to the attitude of a feline cat, which are reserved, yet independent.

This dog absolutely loves to chase and hunt any chance it can get. It’s genetic roots are that of a hunter and so the Basenji needs plenty of exercise, mental stimulation, and play. You will notice that this breed does not bark much, if at all, but when it does bark it comes out as a short yelp-like shriek.

Taking Care Of Your Basenji

The Basenji is a fairly easy dog to maintain and keep healthy. As mentioned previously, he needs plenty of daily exercise, both mentally and physically. These needs can be met by brisk walks and vigorous dog games, especially chasing and fetching.

It is best to keep your Basenji indoors with the family at night. During the daytime hours, however, this dog loves to have the freedom to roam around outside. If you have the luxury of a large fenced-in yard, then allowing your Basenji to play outside is advisable, so long as there is plenty of water and shade during hot weather.

Health Information

Basenji dogs have a lifespan of up to 15 years. The average time is between 12 and 13 years. Major health concerns that are seen amongst Basenji’s are Basenji enteropathy, PRA, and Fanconi syndrome. Minor concerns include umbilical hernias, PK, PPM, and hypothyroidism.



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]]> http://4petsonline.com/basenji/feed/ 0 http://4petsonline.com/sun-conure-first-flights-outdoors/ http://4petsonline.com/sun-conure-first-flights-outdoors/#comments Sat, 05 Jun 2010 15:59:33 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3255
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11 Week old sun conure “Snicket” makes first outdoor flights with Susan Hilliard and Chris Biro. Don’t try this without proper training.

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]]> http://4petsonline.com/sun-conure-first-flights-outdoors/feed/ 21 http://4petsonline.com/kiwi-the-sun-conure/ http://4petsonline.com/kiwi-the-sun-conure/#comments Sat, 05 Jun 2010 15:59:28 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3253
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Kiwi loves nothing more than taking a bath in the kitchen sink.

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]]> http://4petsonline.com/kiwi-the-sun-conure/feed/ 19 http://4petsonline.com/multivet-ssscat-cat-training-aid-2/ http://4petsonline.com/multivet-ssscat-cat-training-aid-2/#comments Sat, 05 Jun 2010 15:09:21 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3241
• ScatMat 48-by-20-Inch Electronic Pet Training Mat, Large
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• Motion-detector-activated training solution to teach your cat to stay away from restricted areas
• Harmless, non-toxic spray releases automatically when cat approaches
• Uses 4 AAA batteries (sold separately)
• 100-percent safe for all cats, humans, and the environment
• This item is not for sale in Catalina Island

Product Description
MultiVet SSSCAT is an automated cat repellent using spray to set boundaries in the home. The fully adjustable nozzle uses a motion detector–along with a can of harmless HFC134a gas–to repel cats in a three-foot radius. It’s a fast, effective, harmless and painless way to keep your cats away from certain areas. The refill can holds over 500 sprays and the motion detector uses 4 AAA batteries (not included).

MultiVet SSSCAT Cat Training Aid

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]]> http://4petsonline.com/multivet-ssscat-cat-training-aid-2/feed/ 3 http://4petsonline.com/australian-terrier-terrier-group/ http://4petsonline.com/australian-terrier-terrier-group/#comments Sat, 22 May 2010 16:21:03 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3234
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The Australian Terrier is one of the best all-around house pets a family could own. They are caring and affectionate, playful and friendly, yet will bark incessantly upon approaching strangers – making them an outstanding watchdog.
When it comes to dog training, the Australian Terrier is moderately easy to train and enjoys learning new tricks. They are quite clever and one of the most obedient members of the Terrier Group. They get along well with other dogs and pets, but reserved around strangers.

A Brief History Of The Australian Terrier

As its name suggests, this breed originated from Australia and dates back to the early 1900s. It was first created in Tasmania and is one of the smallest sized dogs of the working terriers. Its bloodline comes from several European breeds and shares a very common history with the Silky Terrier.

The rough-coated terriers of Tasmania were used for several jobs, namely at killing small rodents and snakes, acting as a watchdog, and helping to control livestock. This root stock was crossed with a variety of other breeds – the Manchester, Skye, Scotch, Dandie Dinmont, and the Yorkshire Terrier.

This new breed was not only as useful as its forebears, it also had a striking appearance. It went through several name changes before being officially coined as the Australian Terrier. Names such as the Toy Terrier, Blue and Tan Terrier, and Blue Terrier were all used. In 1925 it made its way to the United States and gain AKC recognition in 1960

Upkeep Requirements For The Australian Terrier

Owning an Australian Terrier is all about the pampering. These dogs thrive on human contact and love nothing more than to spend hours upon hours with the family. They have high energy levels for such a small member of the Terrier Group which means plenty of daily exercise through running outside, brisk walks on the leash, and vigorous games in the yard.

These dogs can tolerate cool and warm temperatures but are not made to live outside They must be very close to the family. Australian Terrier dogs are a devoted breed, and make great watchdogs. Grooming requirements call for a weekly brushing to keep its wiry coat free of dead hairs and a bit of trimming around the feet.

Health Concerns

The average lifespan of the Australian Terrier is between twelve and fourteen years. There are no major health concerns in the breed. Minor health problems that are common include diabetes and patellar luxation. Rarely seen are seizures, Legg-Perthes, and cruciate ligament rupture. And there are no tests recommended by veterinarians to check for future disease.



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2. Bedlington Terrier (Terrier Group)
3. Australian Cattle Dog (herding group)
]]> http://4petsonline.com/australian-terrier-terrier-group/feed/ 0 http://4petsonline.com/australian-shepherd-herding-group/ http://4petsonline.com/australian-shepherd-herding-group/#comments Fri, 21 May 2010 19:40:48 +0000 Anne http://4petsonline.com/?p=3227
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The Australian Shepherd is a bold, loving, smart and energetic member of the Herding Group. These dogs have an athletic build and are medium in size. With amazing agility and a powerful body, they can work hard all day without sacrificing speed or stamina. Australian Shepherd dogs were bred to guard livestock and to this day maintains the genetic drive to herd.

The temperament of the breed can vary from being overly playful with its owners to an imposing and courageous watchdog against intruders. They are typically friendly towards other dogs and pets, but reserved around strange people. Without proper exercise and mental stimulation through games and dog training, the Australian Shepherd tends to become bored and may act out in a destructive manner through barking and chewing.

A Brief History Of The Australian Shepherd

The Australian Shepherd’s assumed area of origin can be misleading because it is not actually an Australian Breed. Although the exact details of the dog’s history is unclear, we do know that they made their way to the United States, from Australia, where they were used to herd sheep.

One theory suggests that the breed started when the Basque people of Europe settled in Australia with their sheepdogs, then relocated to America, bringing their dogs with them. The name “Australian Shepherd” was given due to the breed’s past residence and function, but they were still largely known as the Basque dog.

The Australian Shepherd excelled at overcoming the harsh conditions of herding through rough terrain in both Australia and western America. They were crossed with various other breeds and were mostly kept under the radar in terms of popularity. During the 1950s, the breed gained exposure as they were seen in various dog trick shows and even in film.

The International English Shepherd Registry registered the very first Australian Shepherd (today known as the National Stock Dog Registry). The Australian Shepherd Club of America was formed in 1957, and in 1993 the AKC officially recognized the breed. Today the Australian Shepherd is still used as a sheep herder and can be seen winning herding trials.

Upkeep Requirements For The Australian Shepherd

This breed must have vigorous exercise on a daily basis, both physically and mentally. And with its ease of training ability and high intellectual levels, the Australian Shepherd is the perfect candidate for advanced obedience training. These dogs thrive on human contact and are not meant for sitting around the house all day.

Australian Shepherds can tolerate both hot and cool temperatures but should not live outdoors completely. The ideal living arrangement is to allow the Aussie to have access to a safe outdoors area during the day and to sleep inside with the family at night. Grooming requirements call for a heavy brushing of its thick coat about two to three times weekly.

Health Concerns

The average lifespan of the Australian Shepherd is between twelve and fifteen years. Major health concerns that run common in the breed are CEA and cataracts. Minor health issues include CEA, Pelger-Huet syndrome, hypothyroidism, CHD, iris coloboma, and nasal solar dermatitis. Rarely seen is PRA, PPM, distichiasis, PDA, epilepsy, lumbar sacral syndrome, and vWD. Veterinarians suggest that the Australian Shepherd get specifically tested for DNA for CEA, hip, thyroid, and eye problems.



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