A Guide To Pet Care

Training Your Dog

2010-05-10T08:40:00.000-07:00

No matter if you are a new pet dog owner or you have had a dog in your home for some time, you have found out how pleasing, and frustrative, owning a dog can be. The pleasure of bringing a new puppy or dog into your home and life can be insuperable. The relationship that develops between you and your dog, is like no other.

Your dog can provide you with unconditional love, hours of entertainment, and genuine friendship. But, on the other hand your dog can provide you with unconditional messes, hours of destruction, and be a genuine nuisance! Now you may think its in the breed, and you are partially correct. Although the breed of the dog does play a role in a dogs behavior, it is more so based on the training your dog receives. You see good dog training can go a long way in helping you with your dogs behavior.

The Benefits of Training

Like a lot of us, you can be extremely busy. There are some days, in which it seems that there are not enough hours in a day to take care of yourself, let alone a dog! But, you need to realize the time you spend training your dog will reinforce the relationship between you and your dog, for years to come.

There are five main benefits of training:

1. It builds a relationship.

2. It adjusts behavioral problems.

3. It induces intellect.

4. It encourages inclusion.

5. It saves time.

Now lets go over each benefit in further detail.

1. Training Builds a Relationship.

The best way to create a bond with your dog than through the procedure of training. Some of you may think that the training starts at the time you want to teach your dog some new tricks, but it actually starts the very moment you acquire your dog. Your dog is invariably watching and learning from your actions. He will learn from the way you react to his actions. He will invariably look to you for guidance, for food, for warmth, for comfort, and for playtime.

2. Training Corrects Behavioral Problems.

Barking at anyone who passes by the front window, chewing up your favorite pillows, digging through your freshly planted garden, bolting out of an open door...do any of these actions look familiar to you? When you have developed a trusting bond with your dog, you can teach him how to correct these behavioral problems. He will learn by your reactions whether or not his actions are acceptable to you. No doubt, he will test his limits!

3. Training Stimulates Intellect.

It is true, that dogs are very curious creatures. Being exposed to so many unusual smells, sights and sounds it is in a dogs nature to want to explore. Most dogs have it in their ability to be very intelligent, but they need to be stimulated first, and then they will be motivated to learn. Training is a huge benefit for stimulating your dog's intellect.

4. Training Encourages Inclusion.

The sense of "inclusion" is very important to a dog's security. From the earliest days of being a part of a litter, your dog feels comfortable being a part of the pack. That includes the pack of your household. You may be the primary dog trainer, but everyone in your family or household should take the time to train your dog. When he receives this undivided attention from everyone, he feels like part of the pack.

5. Training Saves Time.

Training your dog can also save you time. You se by taking the time to train your dog now, it will save you time in the long run. For instance, if you take the time to train your dog to behave properly inside the house, this will save you the time cleaning up mischievous messes that he could create in the future if you did not train him.

If you would like the dog breeders bible on training your dog this is an excellent resource Dog Breeders Bible

Feline Weight Management

2009-08-15T14:33:00.000-07:00

Feline Weight Management
(Calorie Control)

FEEDING SUGGESTION FOR YOUR CAT-
When changing to a new diet, gradually introduce the new food by mixing it with the previous food over a 5 to 7 day period. This will reduce the potential for gastrointestinal problems.
When first feeding dry foods to cats, the food can be moistened by adding warm water(1/4 cup water/1 cup food) to further increase palatability.
Canned cat foods may be warmed in the oven before feeding. This may further increase palatability.
Feeding leftover foods, kitchen scraps or additional supplements with a " complete " cat food can cause a nutrient imbalance and lead to obesity and gastrointestinal upset.
Feed your cat in a quiet place with ready access to clean fresh water.
It is recommended that the cat be fed 2-3 equal portions of diet per day. If the cat is on a weight control program, the total daily intake can be divided into three or more meals per day.

FEEDING VARIATION-
Feeding guides are only guides and are not meant to be followed rigidly. Most cats will eat to satisfy their energy requirements, however, this will vary with their level of activity and their environment. As a result, the amount of feed required by your cat can be as much as 25% above or below that listed in this feeding guide. In consultation with your veterinarian, it is recommended that you weigh your pet 4-6 weeks after starting a new diet in order to adjust food intake to maintain or achieve an optimum weight. Do not allow cats to fast for more than two days.

For more information on feline weight management check out this resource Vet Secrets Revealed

Skin Disease In Dogs

2009-08-15T12:57:00.000-07:00

Skin Disease In Dogs

(Allergic Skin Disease)

Allergic skin disease is one of the most common causes of itching (pruritus) and scratching. Dogs can develop allergies to inhaled pollens, dusts and molds (atopy), by direct contact of the skin with the allergen (contact hypersensitivity), or they can develop allergies to food ingredients (food hypersensitivity). Allergies can arise to flea bites (flea bite hypersensitivity). Most dogs that have allergies itch, scratch and rub their face and paws. The skin may be very red and inflamed, and secondary infections with bacteria and yeast may occur. Your dog may chew its hair and develop bald patches. Continuing repeated ear infections (otitis externa) are also another common materialization of allergic skin disease.

For pets that have skin allergies due to food hypersensitivity, your veterinarian will most likely recommend either a hypoallergenic formula or a sensitivity formula. For pets that have atopy, contact,, or flea bite hypersensitivity your veterinarian may advocate immunotherapy injections. Immunotherapy typically provides relief to 40% of patients. The remaining patients require symptomatic therapy to alleviate the clinical signs. Dietary therapy utilizing a specific combination of ingredients has recently shown to aid the management of skin disease in dogs by reducing pruritus, controlling inflammation, minimizing bacterial infections, optimizing the barrier function of the skin, and promoting recovery from skin disease.

The long chain omega-3 fatty acids from fish oils (eicosapentaenioc acid and docosahexaenoic acid) together with gamma-linoleic acid from borage oil are very efficient at reducing inflammation and promoting a healthy skin and hair coat. The combination of biotin, niacin, pantothenic acid, and zinc-linoleic acid complex reduce water loss through the skin and strengthen effect of the skin as a barrier. Antioxidant's such as vitamin E, beta-carotene, taurine and vitamin C have been shown to better the immune system. Aloe Vera gel reduces inflammation, reduces pruritus and promotes healing of the skin. Curcumin is very effective at reducing inflammation.

BIOTIN-a B vitamin that aids in body growth

NIACIN-also known as vitamin B3 or nicotinic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin that prevents the deficiency disease_disorder pellagra

PANTOTHENIC ACID- a vitamin of the vitamin B complex that performs an important role in the oxidation of fats and carbohydrates and certain amino acids; occurs in many foods

ZINC-LINOLEIC ACID- a mineral with an unsaturated omega-6 fatty acid it is a essential dietary requirement for all mammals.

VITAMIN E- a fat-soluble vitamin that is essential for normal reproduction; an important antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals in the body

BETA-CAROTENE- an isomer of carotene that is found in dark green and dark yellow fruits and vegetables

TAURINE- a sulphur-containing amino acid important in the metabolism of fats.

VITAMIN C- a vitamin found in fresh fruits (especially citrus fruits) and vegetables; prevents scurvy

CURCUMIN- is the principal curcuminoid of the popular Indian spice turmeric , which is a member of the ginger family

For a natural approach to skin disease in dogs check out this resource
Heal Your Dog Naturally

Early Heart Disease In Dogs

2009-08-15T10:57:00.000-07:00

Early Heart Disease In Dogs

(CVD)& (DCM)

Canine heart disease is a mutual problem, affecting one in ten dogs. Although it is more common in older dogs, it can occur in very young puppies. Certain breeds are at a much greater risk. The two most common forms of heart disease are (CVD)- chronic valvular disease and (DCM)- dilated cardiomyopathy.

Timely detection and proactive management can potentially slow the advancement of the heart disease and provide the dog with as healthy a life for as long as possible. Certain nutrients have been shown to be beneficial in helping to support heart muscle function. These nutrients can be remembered by using the ACT WITH SPEED acronym. Each letter corresponds to a nutrient that is important for heart health.

Arginine may help improve blood flow and exercise tolerance in dogs with heart disease.

Carnitine deficiency has been linked to heart disease in some dogs (Boxers and possibly Cocker Spaniels). Carnitine supplementation may improve hearth muscle function in dogs with heart disease.

Taurine. Some dogs with cardiomyopathy have low blood levels of taurine. Taurine has been shown to benefit some dogs with heart disease.

WITH

Sodium and essential minerals. Sodium should be mildly restricted in early heart disease. Potassium deficiency is associated with irregular heart beat and muscle weakness. Magnesium is involved in energy production in heart muscle. It is important to supply the appropriate levels of these essential nutrients.

Protein should not be restricted in dogs with cardiac disease. Protein restriction may contribute to muscle wasing and exercise intolerance.

Energy levels need to be appropriate to maintain idea body weight.

Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and

Docasohexaenoic (DHA) are long chain omega-3 fatty acids. Dogs with cardiac disease can have low disseminating levels of these fatty acids. Supplementation with EPA and DHA may help reduce inflammation and muscle wasting.

For a natural approach to combating heart disease in dogs check out this resource at
Heal Your Dog Naturally

Liver Disease In Dogs

2009-08-15T08:07:00.000-07:00

Liver Disease In Dogs

(Hepatic Encephalopathy & Ascites)

The liver performs more than 1,500 vital functions. All of these functions are marred to varying degrees in dogs with liver disease. Some of the most important functions are the regulation of blood levels of glucose, amino acids, and some trace minerals, the neutralization of waste products in the blood stream, and the production of blood proteins important for health. With afflicted liver function, minerals such as copper may cumulate in, and be toxic to, the liver cells.

The clinical signs of liver disease include excessive drinking, urinating more frequently, vomiting, and weight loss. Fluid may also cumulate in the abdomen (ascites). Some dogs with liver disease will develop signs of abnormal mentation and neurological dysfunction (hepatic encephallopathy), particularly if they eat a high protein meal.

Nutritional support in liver disease is based on varying the nutrient intake to optimize the function of the liver, to protect against ongoing damage to the liver cells, to provide nutrients to help the liver to repair, and to minimize the complications of liver disease such as hepatic encephalopathy and ascites.
For a natural approach to combating liver disease in your dog check out this resource at Heal Your Dog Naturally.

The Advantages of Neutering your Male Cat

2009-03-15T14:41:00.000-07:00

Most male animals that are not used for breeding purposed are castrated, neutered, so that they can no longer impregnate a female. For cats especially, this is crucial, since there are hundreds of kittens every year that go without homes. There are many advantages to neutering your male cat, and the process is quite safe, so you should consider it if your furry feline friend is male and not yet neutered.

Male cats that have not yet been neutered are called tomcats. Simply put, it can be difficult to live with a tomcat, no matter how well trained he may be. When your cat is not neutered, he will want to get outside as frequently as possible to mate with female cats in heat. This can be disastrous if you live in a busy street with lots of traffic or if your cat is not used to being outdoors. Tomcats also roam a lot, meaning that they may travel far distances in search of female cats, and it is possible for your cat to roam too far and not know his way home. It is also possible for him simply to resist coming home at all, since he will be shut indoors. To protect your male cat, neutering it the best choice.

Tomcats also fight and are generally more aggressive than neutered cats. Because they want sexual dominance in a particular area, they may seek fights with other male cats to drive them away. Cats will fight to the death if they feel threatened, and fights cause not only injuries, but also the spread of diseases like the
Fe L V virus, which can be fatal. Neutering your cat will not stop an aggressive cat from being less aggressive toward humans, but it will prevent your cat from actively seeking fights with other male cats in the neighborhood.

Vasectomies are not done with male cats. Rather, the simple neutering procedure will remove the male reproductive organs, which are easily accessible in most tomcats. In some cases, more extensive surgery has to be done, because they have not developed and descended correctly. The removal of these organs is what causes the changing in male hormones through a cat’s body, changing the cat’s behavior. Sterilization is not enough, because the cat won’t notice the difference and will still seek to fight and mate. Your vet can tell you more about this procedure, but all in all, it is the best choice for any cat, since there are already so many homeless cats in the world. In case your cat does get F E L V

Cat Safety in Warm Weather

2009-03-15T14:35:00.001-07:00

If you live in a climate that has sticky, hot, summer days, you may find yourself longing for cooler days. Your cat will definitely agree! In warm weather, it is necessary for you to care for your cat’s healthy so that he or she does not become overheated. Remember, a pet is like a newborn baby—your cat cannot tell you that he or she is hot or uncomfortable. You have to notice warning signs and provide a good living environment so that your cat does not get too hot.

When you take your pet places during the summer, never ever let your cat inside of a parked car, even for a short time. Cars quickly become ovens in the summertime, even when you park in the shade, or even if you have the windows cracked. Your pet will not be able to alert people in order to get out of your car safely. In as little as ten to fifteen minutes, your pet could die from the heat in a parked car, and parking in the shade does little good to prevent this, since the sun continuously moves and the heat of the air alone will be bad for your pet. If your pet will be going with you, make sure that cats are allowed wherever you will be.

When the heat index is high, keep your cats inside. Cats that are not outdoors most of the time will not know where the cooler places to hide are, or they may find these cooler places and not return home. Hot asphalt can also wreak havoc on a cat’s health, as it can burn his or her sensitive paw pads. If your cat does not use a litter box and instead goes outside, make sure that he or she is let back inside after only a few minutes on the hottest days of the summer. Basically, if it is recommended that seniors and children stay inside, it is good for pets to stay indoors as well.

Keep your cat well groomed during the summer as well. Brushing you cat often will help get rid of the excess hair that has been shed and is weighing down the animal. If your cat has very long hair or is overweight, provide him or her with an air-conditioned room if possible. Preventing overheating is key.

As always, make sure your cat has access to clean, fresh water. This can be tap water, but should be cool and changed multiple times a day when it is hot outside. Your furry feline is very important in your life, so make sure that he or she gets proper care when the summer days make your sweat. Remember you know how you feel when you are burning up, your cat feels the same way.

Trimming your Pet Bird’s Wings

2009-03-15T14:24:00.001-07:00

There are a lot of things that you need to know about your pet before you become a pet owner. This is true no matter what kind of animal you have, and no matter what kind of situation you find yourself in what it comes to that animal. No matter if you have a dog, cat, or a bird, you have to do research before you make that animal a part of your life, and you have to be sure that you can do all of the proper things for that animal before you find yourself in a situation where you have to take care of an animal. If you can’t take care of an animal properly you should not have it, because it is not fair to that animal.

One of the hardest things about owning a pet bird is learning how to deal with its wings. There is no magic formula for what kind of birds need certain things done for their wings, and what you should be doing. Most of the time, you should buy the pet bird in the condition that you want it to stay in, because chances are that it was done correctly wherever you got the bird from, and it might not be done correctly if you try to do it yourself.

Trimming a bird’s wings is one of these situations. There are so many things that you have to know about it before you can consider doing it. First of all, you have to take into account what kind of bird you have, and if trimming their wings is even something that is good for that bird. Then, you have to see if the situation you have the bird in even makes it possible to trim their wings. Lastly, depending on what type of bird you have and what situation you are putting that bird into, there are certain ways that you have to go about trimming the wings and there are certain ways that might hurt the bird if you do them.

Trimming a bird’s wings is something that should always be done by a professional. You should not assume that you can figure out how to do it on your own, because if you don’t do it correctly, you can damage that bird forever, and might even cause it to die. If you are considering trimming your bird’s wings, be sure that you have talked to the place where you purchased the bird, as well as to a vet, and that they both agree it is a good idea. Then, be sure that you find someone who knows how to trim your particular bird’s wings.

Your Dog Is Choking What To Do?

2009-03-06T15:41:00.000-08:00

Are you giving your pet all the available treatment options with Veterinary Secrets Revealed?
This has gotta be every pet owner's nightmare...
They are going for an enjoyable stroll while their dog frollicks with his buddies at the dog walk.
Max races to beat Shorty for the ball... Max inhales the ball.
He gasps for air... while he's struggling to breath, you run over to him, then he drops...

What would YOU do??
I would think that your all thinking... Just reach inside his mouth and remove the ball.

SIMPLE. Not So Easy.
First, it's difficult to get your hand deep to the back of the throat, especially in a small dog.
Second, I have seen many balls wedged so far back in the throat, that NOBODY can use their hand to remove them. The clock is TICKING... YOU'VE got to act FAST.

So Now What...?
You could pick him up in Your arms, carry him to your car, and rush to the closest Vet.. But You need to go fast, for if you don't get there in 2 minutes, then its TOO LATE.

What would You do with a Choking Person... The Heimlich.
With a Dog: The Heimlich.
You Hold him upside down, with his head pointing down and his spine against you.
You give repeated sharp thrusts to the abdomen.
You lay him down and sweep the throat again for the ball.
You repeat this until the ball comes out.
I think that every pet owner should know basic CPR.

Read this testimonial:

"Dear Dr. Jones,

I have read your book and I am better prepared to handle an emergency with my Dog "Annie". I know how to do CPR on a dog and how to do the Heimlich Maneuver, etc. She is 7 and has arthritis in her left rear leg, probably in the knee. I am going to treat her now with your alternative treatment.

I can't tell you how much I appreciate having this reference book. I recommend it to every pet owner. It's a must have. Let me know if there is anything I can do to help you with your "problem" with the association. Thank you.

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You can learn the specifics of the Heimlich, PLUS ALL CPR when You purchase 'Veterinary Secrets Revealed'
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Scroll down to the bottom of the Page, Click on the Secure Order Link, and Get Your Copy Now.
It's easy to learn CPR- It literally may Save Your Pet's Life.
Its Your Pet - Learn How to Heal Them At Home!

A letter

From: Dr Andrew Jones
Author: Veterinary Secrets Revealed
Website: www.veterinarysecretsrevealed.com

Store Bought or Homemade Dogfood

2009-03-06T04:38:00.000-08:00

The massive pet food recall of 2007 had millions of dog owners terrified that they had unwittingly been poisoning their beloved pets. If you and your dog survived that frightening time, you have undoubtedly been more careful in your choice of dog foods ever since. But how is the average dog owner to know what's really going into doggie's dish? One way to know for sure is to make your pet's food at home, but that can be very time-consuming. The other option is to know which commercial food is the the best dog food, that is both safe and nutritious.

The dog foods found on most grocery store shelves, the generic or store brand ones, are not usually considered among the best foods for your pet. More often than not, these brands are full of ingredients that are lower in quality and inexpensive. While these brands provide a cheaper alternative to the other brands, they are generally not recommended. A quick glance at the ingredients can provide an example of lower quality food.

For many owners, the question is solved by finances. To put is simply, if the owner can afford the dog food then that type and brand is going to go into the food bowl. While this approach may seem sensible, especially when the monthly budget is taken into consideration, it may not be best. Why feed the dog sub-par ingredients and face vet bills later on that may have been avoided in the first place by choosing the right food?

Generic meat ingredients without a specific species named is not a good thing to feed a dog. Avoid phrases such as “meat byproducts” or “meat and bone meal”. Look for brands that can list the animal that they use as an ingredient, like “chicken meal” or “beef”. Also, avoid any brands that list corn as their main ingredient. You are feeding a dog, after all, and not a pig or a cow.

But, you say, Fido is delighted with the store brand food, which retails for half of what the brand names do? That's because Fido's been tricked. Chemicals have been added to that food, creating a pleasing color and aroma which Fido finds irresistible and which hides the fact that the food is not one of the best dog foods. These chemicals are easy enough to spot if you know what to look for. Coloring agents, drying agents, and texturizers are just some of the tell-tale ingredients that should cause you to sit up and take notice.

This option of making pet food at home has become more and more popular over the past few years as it allows owners to choose directly what is going into their dog’s bowl. Feeding doggie homemade food, however, does not mean allowing him or her to dine on the family's leftovers. It means researching the proper balance of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats for your dog, and finding the foods which will provide them in an easily digestible form. One of the best known homemade diets for the canine set is the BARF diet.

And now–what does BARF stand for? Seems you can say it stands for a couple of things, but the most often cited explanation is Bones And Raw Food. The other one floating around on the Internet is Biologically Appropriate Raw Food, which is attributed to Dr. Ian Billinghurst, one of the original Barfers.

The BARF Diet is suitable for many dogs but it takes time and dedication on the owner’s part. While there are noticeable differences between the BARF diet and a diet based on commercial dog foods, the purpose of both diets is to provide the dog with the best nutrients possible.

BARF is about feeding a biologically appropriate diet for a dog that is made up of raw whole foods like those eaten by their ancestors. This would include muscle meat, bone, fat, organ meat and vegetable materials and any other foods that mimic what the wild ancestors ate.

The BARF diet, however, is not always the best method of feeding your dog and it takes a great amount of time to prepare and research the foods. Conversely, commercial brand dog foods have undergone several tests to insure that they are compatible with the dietary needs of the dog. Basically, a dog will receive just about the same benefits of the BARF diet if he remains on a commercial diet and may even receive more nutrients that way.

The important thing you, as a dog owner, should know is that commercial dog food is not all the same. You can learn much more about what is in each can, pouch, or bag of dog food by becoming educated in label reading, and the AAFCO standards. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide what's the best dog food for your dog.

Visit this link for a Special Report

What is The Right Adult Dogfood

2009-03-06T04:23:00.001-08:00

The AAFCO has different testing standards for commercial puppy and adult dog foods, and the ingredients in a AAFCO approved puppy food will continue to meet your dog's changing nutritional needs. The AAFCO's Growth testing protocol applies to puppies, and its Adult Maintenance protocol applies to all adult dogs. So if you are enticed by a commercial dog food labeled as "Senior," don’t think it has been tested by the AAFCO on older dogs.

With your dog coming into adulthood, you will have to change the food from puppy chow to a food formulated for older dogs which should be one of the better rated dog food. This should start around the one year mark for your puppy. Changing foods should be done carefully and with great care and consideration.

Pay close attention to your dog’s likes, dislikes, and attitude toward the new food. When choosing the new food, make sure that it contains the six major nutrient groups which will provide your dog with a healthy diet. These groups are the proteins, fats and oils, minerals, water, carbohydrates, and vitamins that can be found listed on the Guaranteed Analysis on the dog food package.

It is also important to consider your dog’s special needs and circumstances while choosing an adult formulated food. Breed and size are two factors as well as any health issues and if your dog is active or inactive. Smaller breeds metabolize much faster than larger breeds and will need twice the calories. Larger breeds will need to eat more and will also need food that helps strengthen their bones and joints. Active dogs will need food with high levels of fat which will not help the inactive dog.

No matter what food you choose, make sure that it will meet your dog’s dietary needs. The feeding recommendations below and those found on other food’s labels are merely guidelines. You, as the owner, will be the first to know if your dog is benefiting from the diet or that adjustments are needed. And, as always, do not hesitate to consult with your veterinarian if you should have any questions or concerns.

Remember the dietary needs for adult dogs will vary dog to dog depending upon condition, size, and breed. In general, the aim of adult dog food should be the continued maintenance of well being for the immune system, skin, coat and muscles. Always try and buy one of the best rated dog foods.

Adult dogs will be eating less often than their puppies, averaging two servings a day; some breeds will only need one serving a day. It is vital to ensure that your dog is meeting all of the nutritional requirements at each meal to keep it healthy and happy. Routine is also important and allows your dog’s digestion system a sense of regularity.

It is also important to remember that with a regular feeding schedule and consultations with veterinarians, feeding your adult dog should not be stressful. Usually, there should be two feeding times for healthy adults; morning and evenings with enough food to sufficiently meet the dog’s daily requirements. To do so, simply divide the daily nutritional requirements in half.

With a stable routine, your dog’s body will come to expect meals at the appointed time which will help the digestion process and even his mental health. When deciding what time to feed your dog, take into consideration your own daily habits and choose times that will allow you to follow through with the plan each and every day. In time, you and your dog will fall into habit of reducing stress and making life much easier for both.

One thing you should keep in mind when feeding your adult dog is that his or her metabolism will begin to slow over time. While properly balanced adult dog foods will not by themselves make your adult dog fat, continuing to feed a dog with a slowing metabolism the same amount of food will. So you should either give your aging pet more exercise to burn off the calories which are not being burned by his or her slowing metabolism, or cut back on the portions at meal time.

What you decide to feed your adult dog, whether you go with a commercial food or decide to try the BARF diet or your own home made dog food, will be the single most important factor in his or her continuing health and happiness. So do your research before you make the switch from puppy to adult food, and pay attention to how well your pal is responding to the new food.

It's perfectly alright to try a variety of adult foods until you discover the one the best rated dog foods which has you dog both thriving, and looking forward to mealtime as the best part of the day! But make an educated choice!

Visit this link for a Special Free Dog Food Report

Dog Food, Fillers, Recall You are Killing Your Dog!

2009-03-06T03:43:00.000-08:00

You can never underestimate the importance of understanding the AAFCO pet nutrition standards and of knowing how to read dog food labeling when choosing a commercial diet for your pet. The AAFCO will give its approval to both low and high quality ingredients, and unless you know exactly what's in the commercial pet food your dog is getting, you might think everything is just fine.

But there have been problems with many of the lower quality dog foods and the ingredients that are used that have been brought to light in the early part of 2007. Various dog food recall reports indicated the number of affected cats and dogs hit the 39,000 mark across the country. Animals became extremely sick or died due to the contamination of commercial pet foods with an industrial chemical – melamine, used to make plastics and fertilizers. This chemical was found in more than 100 brands of pet food that were recalled in Canada and the USA starting in mid-March.

The major culprit was identified as rice protein concentrate (otherwise called rice gluten), NOT brown rice. Then in June, concerns were raised about reports of acetaminophen (Tylenol) being found in dog and cat food, followed by salmonella poisoning in others. The second chemical also found with the melamine was cyanuric acid - deadly when combined. Both were found in the cat and dog food recall in March 2007. Cyanuric acid is commonly used to slow the breakdown of chlorine in swimming pools and hot tubs. It has NO place in pet food! These chemicals are put in your pets food to be used as a filler, to bring down the cost.

The dog food recall of those contaminated pet foods has done nothing to stop the use of fillers in lower grade commercial dog foods. Many pet food manufacturers keep their costs down by loading then with bulk which has absolutely no nutritional value. Your pet's food could one or more of a number of fillers, including:

* Cereal by-products
* Cottonseed hulls
* Citrus pulp
* Peanut hulls
* Weeds
* Straw
* Corn and corncobs
* Feathers
* Soy

These fillers are unfortunately used in the place of quality fiber, and can irritate the walls of your pet's intestines. Even the meat meals which you might think are protein sources in your pet's food, if they are not of good enough quality, are nothing more than fillers. All the plant materials used as fillers carry a risk of toxic herbicide and pesticide contamination, and soy is one of the top cited allergens by veterinarians, which causes severe allergic reactions. Reactions can include coughing, sneezing, runny nose, hives, diarrhea, facial swelling, shortness of breath, swollen tongue, difficulty swallowing, fainting, and anaphylactic shock.

Higher end brands of dog food, are products both devoid of any byproducts, and containing the healthiest choice of carbohydrates, protein, fiber, and other nutrients.

These nutrients are best when provided with a recognizable name and not some chemical number. Avoid obscure listings like potato product, rice or peanut hulls, and grape pomace. Look for something more recognizable than words that give you only a vague notion of what you are feeding your dog. Pet food manufacturers pay people good salaries to come up with the words which will entice you to buy their products. You need to know how to read the ingredients behind the descriptions, and decide if they really belong in the dish of your best pal. Don’t let your dog fill up on fillers!

Visit this link now for Special Report

How Training Benefits Both Pet Owners And Pets

2009-03-04T18:29:00.000-08:00

Whether you are a new pet owner or you have had a pet in your home for some time, you know how delightful, and frustrating, owning a pet can be. The joy of bringing a new puppy or dog into your household can be insurmountable. After all, there is no relationship quite like the one that is developed between you and your dog.

The Benefits of Training

If you are like most people, you are extremely busy. Some days, there just doesn't seem like enough hours to take care of yourself, let alone a dog! But, the time that you spend training your dog will reward you and your relationship for many, many years to come.

There are five main benefits of training:

1. It builds a relationship: There is no better way to create a bond with your dog than through the process of training. You may think that training begins at the time you decide to try new tricks, but it actually begins at the very moment you acquire your dog. Your dog is constantly watching you and learning from your actions. He learns from the way you react to his actions. He looks to you for guidance, for food, for warmth, for comfort, and for playtime.

2. Training Stimulates Intellect: Yes, it is true that dogs are very curious creatures. With exposure to so many unusual smells, sights, and sounds, dogs can't help but want to explore. It's in their nature! Most dogs have the capacity to be very intelligent. But, they need to be stimulated first, and then they will be motivated to learn. Training is a huge benefit for stimulating your dog's intellect.

3. Training Saves Time: Another huge benefit of training your dog is that it saves you time. Taking the time to train your dog now, will actually save you time in the long run. For example, if you take the time to train your dog to behave properly inside the house, you will actually be saving time cleaning up mischievous messes that he could create in the future-if he didn't have the training.

4. Training Corrects Behavioral Problems: Barking at anyone who passes by the front window, chewing up your favorite pillows, digging through your freshly planted garden, bolting out of an open door...do any of these actions look familiar to you? When you have developed a trusting bond with your dog, you can teach him how to correct these behavioral problems. He will learn by your reactions whether or not his actions are acceptable to you. No doubt, he will test his limits!

5. It saves time: Another huge benefit of training your dog is that it saves you time. Taking the time to train your dog now, will actually save you time in the long run. For example, if you take the time to train your dog to behave properly inside the house, you will actually be saving time cleaning up mischievous messes that he could create in the future-if he didn't have the training.

In Conclusion: A dog can provide unconditional love, hours of entertainment, and genuine friendship. Or, a dog can provide unconditional messes, hours of destruction, and a genuine nuisance! How do you ensure that your dog behaves in the manner of the first scenario described above? If you are thinking that the answer is "breed" you are partially correct. Indeed, breed does play a role in a dog's behavior. But an even greater factor in the dog's behavior is based on the training he receives. Good dog training resources can go a long way toward helping.

Click here for more dog training help and advice.

Moving With Your Cat

2009-02-18T05:56:00.001-08:00

Moving can be a difficult situation with which to deal for all member of your family, including your cats. If you will be moving in the near future there are a number of things that you should consider in order to make sure that your cat’s health is not compromised. Don’t forget to think about your furry friends when moving!

First, when you are packing for the move, it might be a good idea to confine your cat to a single room or to have a friend or family member watch your cat for the day. Movers are often caring very heavy items, like sofas and refrigerators, so they should not have to watch where they step. Your curious kitty could also climb into the moving van or boxes and get packed away! If your cat is a fully indoor cat,— the open doors while you are loading your belongings, will also be a worry, since it is easy for a pet to bolt out the door.

About a month before you move, have your cat wear his or her collar full-time, even if you do not normally put the collar on your cat. All of his or her information should be updated and the tags should reflect your new address. When cats are confused, they often run, and a lost cat in a new neighborhood may not be able to find his or her way home very easily. If your cat needs certain medication, this can be very dangerous. By having him or her wear a collar at all times, at least until he or she gets used to the new location, you can make sure that your cat is returned home if lost.

During the move itself, don’t forget to make special accommodations for your cat. A cat carrier that is well ventilated is a necessity, and if the trip will be more than a few hours long, you’ll also need to carry food, water, and litter box supplied for your cat. Cats that are not used to riding in cars may get sick, so talk to your vet about ways to prevent this. You can also cover the carrier with blankets to provide a bit of extra security for a stressed-out kitty when you’re in heavy, loud traffic or construction areas.

Remember, that you’ll need to find a new vet in your new neighborhood. This should be a top priority for you if you’re moving, and you should talk to your current vet about having your cat’s medical records transferred to a new location. If your cat is acting strangely at all, do not hesitate to call your vet for more tips about moving with your cat.

More Pet Care

Surgery And Your Cat

2009-02-18T05:22:00.000-08:00

If your cat needs surgery, for whatever reason, there are multiple steps you can take to help your cat with this process. There are three main classifications of surgeries.

Elective surgeries are those that you choose to have done, but that do not have to be done. Spaying and neutering fall into this category.
The second kind of surgery is called non-elective, and these are surgeries which have to be done for your cat’s survival, but which you schedule.
Lastly, there are emergency surgeries, that are done quickly and as your pet needs them, such as if your cat is hit by a car.
If your cat is having elective or not elective surgery, there are ways to prepare for this, and if your cat is recovering from any type of surgery, you can do certain things in your home to make this easier.

First and foremost, when your cat is going to have surgery, it is usually best for this to happen when your cat has an empty stomach, unless your vet indicates otherwise. The most common response to the anesthetics used is vomiting, so your cat will have fewer problems if his or her stomach has no food in it. If you deny your pet food for about 12 hours before the surgery, most of the food in the stomach will be gone. In most cases, your cat having access to water is fine. If you have other pets in the house, you may need to confine your cat to one room so that he or she does not eat from other dishes, or you may need to withhold food from all of your pets.

When your kitty goes into surgery, remember that any number of things may go wrong. You’ll be responsible for the vet bill, even if it is higher than the estimate. After the surgery, it may take a day or even longer for your cat to be awake and functioning. You may also be looking at a few days—sometimes more—in the vet hospital for recovery. You should visit during the hours allowed, and volunteer to help feed or care for your cat. This will let your cat know that you have not abandoned him or her.

When you bring your cat home, follow all instructions completely. Your cat may need multiple medications daily or a special diet. Your cat may also not be allowed outside for a certain amount of time. For cats with any kind of incision, assume this to be at least a week or two, which may be difficult if your cat is used to going outside often. If your cat’s fur had to be clipped or shaved, keep in mind that he or she is probably colder than normal, so it may be a good idea to provide extra blankets warmed in the dryer or a hot water bottle wrapped in a towel. Remember, your other cats will need attention too. By making sure that your house is safe and loving, you can keep all of your cats happy after surgery.

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Neutering Your Cat

2009-02-18T05:02:00.000-08:00

Most male animals that are not used for breeding purpose's are castrated, neutered, so that they can no longer impregnate a female. For cats especially, this is crucial, since there are hundreds of kittens every year that go without homes. There are many advantages to neutering your male cat, and the process is quite safe, so you should consider it if your furry feline friend is male and not yet neutered.

Male cats that have not yet been neutered are called tomcats. Simply put, it can be difficult to live with a tomcat, no matter how well trained he may be. When your cat is not neutered, he will want to get outside as frequently as possible to mate with female cats in heat. This can be disastrous if you live in a busy street with lots of traffic or if your cat is not used to being outdoors. Tomcats also roam a lot, meaning that they may travel far distances in search of female cats, and it is possible for your cat to roam too far and not know his way home. It is also possible for him simply to resist coming home at all, since he will be shut indoors. To protect your male cat, neutering it the best choice.

Tomcats also fight and are generally more aggressive than neutered cats. Because they want sexual dominance in a particular area, they may seek fights with other male cats to drive them away. Cats will fight to the death if they feel threatened, and fights cause not only injuries, but also the spread of diseases like the FeLV virus, which can be fatal. Neutering your cat will not stop an aggressive cat from being less aggressive toward humans, but it will prevent your cat from actively seeking fights with other male cats in the neighborhood.

Vasectomies are not done with male cats. Rather, the simple neutering procedure will remove the male reproductive organs, which are easily accessible in most tomcats. In some cases, more extensive surgery has to be done, because they have not developed and descended correctly. The removal of these organs is what causes the changing in male hormones through a cat’s body, changing the cat’s behavior. Sterilization is not enough, because the cat won’t notice the difference and will still seek to fight and mate. Your vet can tell you more about this procedure, but all in all, it is the best choice for any cat, since there are already so many homeless cats in the world.

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How to care and breed your discus fish

2009-02-15T06:47:00.000-08:00

More manuals over the years have been written about keeping and breeding discus fish then any other exotic fish. This is because they are very popular with pet owners. Discus fish are very sensitive creatures, if you want to keep long lasting discus fish you need to be aware of there preferred living conditions and feeding and breeding habits.

Discus is a native of the calm and warm Amazon River Keeping discus fish requires the pet owner to have the right information about what to expect and what to offer them to make these exotic creatures happy. Discus fish keeps changing their behaviour according to the environmental factors.

They are generally shy but if your planning to keep discus fish you will notice that they become quite aggressive to there own kind this is because of breeding territory protection. In this type of situation only the strong discus will survive and the week get attacked. Its best to keep to keep discus fish in groups of minimum six individuals is considered ideal. By keeping them in groups it will increase confidence in group members and lower the risk of misbehaviour. Keeping discus fish can bring lots of challenges and rewards at the same time too.

Here are some quick tips for you...

Pairing: Discus fish really don't take well to arrange marriages, the best way to get a pair to gather is to buy a group of young unrelated fish of the same colour type and let them pair up themselves. This might happen from when the fish are half grown, spawning usually occurs when there ¾ of their adult size. The fish will usually remain a pair until the remainder of there lives.

Spawning: Discus will choose a near vertical smooth site, which they clean and then the female will lay any ware from 80-400 eggs and then the male fertilises them. It can take between 50-60 hours for the eggs to hatch and another 36-48 hours until their swimming freely.

Breeding Tank: It’s best to keep the breeding tanks simple and to have a simple air powered filtration, spawning sites (terracotta cones, broad leafed plants or slate) and no substrate. The water needs to be very soft so the eggs can develop properly. The quality of the water needs to be excellent and have a temperature of about 84-88F. Also a suitable tank size is 24x18x18.

Feeding and Conditioning: The parents will need a good and varied diet not just to condition them to spawn, but to provide nutrition when they are feeding their fry. Large water changes, a temperature rise and heavy feeding is often a good spawning trigger.

Fry Rearing: It's a good idea to give the fry additional feedings of small foods such as (BBS) baby brine shrimp whilst with parents. You will notice after about 3-6 weeks the parents will be exhausted, also the fry will be growing fast it's a good idea to remove them. This is where lots of tanks and water changes are needed to achieve a decent growth rate. I used to grow circa. 40 fry to just under 2" in a 55G tank, and this required heavy water changing. The discus market is saturated with fish, so it best to grow 20-50 excellent fry than 80 runts. Growth is reasonable, but not spectacular.
Guide To Pet Care

Cats and Household Poisons.

2009-02-15T05:17:00.000-08:00

It is important to know about the different household items that could poison your cat, if you seek to provide the best living environment possible for your furry feline friend. Remember, your cat cannot resist tasty-smelling or unusual substances, nor can he or she tell you what was ingested to make him or her feel badly. Therefore, know which items you own could hurt your pet and keep these items securely in cabinets and other places your cat cannot access. If possible, keep these items out of your home altogether.

First, many homes have bleach products. You’ll find bleach and Clorox mainly in the laundry room or in other cleaning supplies; however, you can also find bleach products in swimming pool supplies. In generally, household bleaches are fairly mild. Although they will make your cat feel ill, most animals are smart enough to not drink enough to kill. Signs that your cat may have drunk a bleach product include excess drooling, vomiting, and abdominal pain. If your cat seems to be in pain, smell his or her fur if possible to detect the scent of the bleach. In general, call you vet and have your cat drink large quantities of milk or water if you possibly can. Monitor your cat for bloody vomit and difficulty breathing, and wash the paws and mouth area thoroughly.

Mothballs and other products containing naphthalene and paradichlorobenzene can also make your cat sick. Ingesting this substance can cause liver damage and seizures. Symptoms include vomiting, seizures, blue or brown colored gums, increased heart rate,loss of appetite, and diarrhea.

Citrus oils, which are found in shampoo, insect repellent, fragrances, and insecticide are very harmful to cats as well. Although these items can harm all pets, cats are more sensitive than dogs and if you treat a cat with dog products, the result could kill your pet. Signs that your cat has ingested citrus oils include that common citrus smell, drolling, falling, trembling, and weakness. Eventually, liver damage occurs, and many cats experience liver failure, resulting in death. If your cat is treated, the prognosis is good, but left untreated, this poison could be deadly.

Therefore, it is simply important to call your vet if you see anything wrong with your cat at all. Cats are creatures of habit, so if your feline seems to be acting strangely, it is best to schedule an appointment. Do what’s best for your pet and try to keep harmful products in places where they can’t be reached.
A Guide To Pet Care

Dental Health For Your Cat

2009-02-15T04:49:00.000-08:00

It is important for you to go to the dentist at least once a year for checkups. This is, however, also important to your cat! Many people never think about it, but good dental health can keep your cat happy and disease-free. Whenever your cat goes to the vet, make sure that the dental health is checked and discussed, and if your cat is acting strangely at all, especially with eating habits, make sure that dental health problems are not a concern.

Kittens, like baby humans, have fewer teeth than adult cats. Each kitten has 26 temporary teeth, which begin to appear at about three weeks of age. An adult cat will have 30 permanent teeth—16 on the top and 14 on the bottom. A cat usually begins getting his or her permanent teeth when he or she is three of four months old. Some of these teeth have two roots while others have three.

The most common dental diseases found in cats are resporption lesions and gum disease (gingivitis). Resorption lesions are also known as cervical line lesions or neck lesions and often result in tooth loss. These lesions are difficult to detect, as they often grow below the gum line. Gum disease is found in over 70% of cats by the age of three. You can tell if your cat has gum disease by looking for yellow and brown tarter build up along the gum line and over the tooth, red inflamed gums, and chronic bad breath.

Oral disease is often an indication of other more serious health problems. For example, it is common for a cat with feline leukemia virus (F.E.L.V) to have oral health problems. Dental conditions are also commonly found with feline immunodeficiency virus and feline calici virus. Therefore, if your pet is have dental problems, you need to see a vet right away about these conditions to make sure they are symptoms of a much more serious disease.

Cats can also accidentally break teeth. This can be a result of a fall, a fight with another cat or other animal, or biting into something too hard to chew. Usually, the upper canine tooth will be the tooth fractured. This is the tooth in your cat’s mouth that looks like a large fang. If this is fractured, your cat may or may not be in pain. The first symptom of this kind of a fracture is continuous sneezing.

Overall, oral health is important in all mammals. Cats are susceptible to a number of dental disease and problems, just like humans. By taking your cat to the vet often and asking about oral health, you can make sure that you are providing the best health care foods and tools for your feline friend.
A Guide To Pet Care

As Your Cat Ages

2009-02-15T03:51:00.000-08:00

Age is just a number, right? A Human who is 60 years old may act like a young adult, while another human the same age may at like he or she is on a deathbed. Cats are the same way! Your pet may act like a kitten for many years or they may look like they are old and gray with arthritis . Specific breed, environment, and genetics play a role, but in general, a well-cared for house cat usually lives to be at least 15 years old. Some cats live to be well over 30.

There are things you can do, however, to provide your cat with the chance for the longest life possible. For example, have your cat spayed or neutered. Statistics show that fixed cats live longer, because this causes the cat to stay closer to home and be exposed to few dangerous situations and disease. Good nutrition is also important. Make sure that you are buying cat food that is appropriate for your cat’s age.

As you cat ages, certain medical conditions may cause you to make special considerations for your cat. Examples include reduced tolerance to extreme temperatures, decreased sensory perception, susceptibility to infection, arthritis and joint stiffness, digestion problems, liver and kidney problems, weaker bones, cancer, muscle weakness, slow reaction, memory loss, high blood pressure, and irritability. As you can see, aging cats have many of the same problems as aging humans!

Along with a good diet, promote healthy amounts to exercise in your cat. You can do this by allowing your cat to go outside and by playing with your cat every day. Toys and environmental pieces, like scratching posts, are great for encouraging your cat to exercise. Remember, cats may spend a lot of the day sleeping, which is fine. If you are overly concerned, talk to your vet about your cat’s sleeping habits.

Preventative health care is, of course, important. Make sure that your cat has regular checkups with the vet to make sure everything is in check. You should also brush your cat’s teeth daily and have your cat groomed regularly to prevent skin diseases. As cats age, most grow to love grooming. Monitor your cat for diet chances, changing sleep habits, and unsafe water consumption. The key to graceful aging in a cat is and owner who is well involved in his or her life. Make sure that you provide advanced care for your cat as he or she grows, and your pet should be a part of your life for a very long time.

A Guide To Pet Care