Common Diseases of Dogs

Common Diseases of Dogs
Disease	Nature of Disease	Causative Agent
Distemper	affects non vaccinated (non immunized) puppies in contact with infected animals; symptoms include loss of appetite, fever; inflammation of the brain is usual cause of death; some dogs may recover, but others have spastic tremors; foxes, wolves, mink, skunks, raccoons, and ferrets also susceptible	virus
Infectious hepatitis	affects dogs by causing hemorrhages and severe liver damage; affects foxes (Rubarth's disease) by causing inflammation of the brain; clinical signs are variable because disease symptoms vary from severe to inapparent (i.e., no manifest signs)	virus
Salmon poisoning	occurs after consumption of raw salmon or trout carrying rickettsial-infected flatworm (fluke) larvae (Nanophyetus salmincola); affects dogs, foxes, and coyotes primarily in the Pacific northwestern United States; symptoms include high fever, swollen lymph nodes; usually fatal within five days	rickettsia
Prostatitis	inflammation of a gland near the urinary bladder (prostate gland) in male dogs; usually controlled by antibiotic drugs; other prostate-gland disorders may result from tumours (carcinoma, sarcoma) or from abnormal increase in cell multiplication (hyperplasia)	varied
Congenital heart	may occur in 1 percent of all dogs; heart disorders may lead to secondary disease diseases such as pneumonia, accumulation of fluid in body cavities, laboured breathing, edema; heart failure occurs	inherited tendency
Hip dysplasia	crippling disorder common in many breeds (especially German shepherds); a shallow hip socket (acetabulum) results in an unstable hip joint, particularly during motion of hindleg	apparently inherited tendency
Kidney stones (calculi, urolithiasis)	calculi develop in kidney, bladder, and male urethra (tube from bladder to outside of body); surgery usually necessary; inherited types include cystine calculi in certain dachshunds and uric acid calculi in male dalmatians	hereditary, functional disturbance
Hypothyroidism	thyroid gland may function marginally or be absent; symptoms include awkward, slow movement, coarse, dry coat; treatment includes iodine, thyroid preparations	functional disturbance
Dermatitis	common symptoms include skin inflammation and loss of hair; causative agents include nutritional deficiencies, bacterial infections, hypothyroidism, allergies, hormone imbalances, and parasites (e.g., fleas, lice, mites, fly larvae, and ticks)	varied
Strychnine poisoning	accidental ingestion of 0.75 milligram of the poison (found in rat poisons) per kilogram (about 2.25 pounds) of body weight may cause death from convulsions and respiratory distress	chemical compound
Glaucoma	a group of eye diseases in which the retina and optic nerve are damaged; certain breeds have a hereditary tendency for the disease; other breeds develop glaucoma as a result of other eye disorders	hereditary tendency in some breeds
Granulomatous colitis	usually found in boxer dogs; symptoms include bloody diarrhea; severely and chronically affected dogs become emaciated; an infectious agent observed microscopically in the thickened colon has not yet been isolated or characterized	not yet characterized
Pancreatitis	in acute types the gland may be destroyed because of inflammation from unknown causes; an animal that lives may develop diabetes mellitus or be unable to secrete enzymes from pancreas, or both, thus preventing digestion, which increases the appetite and causes progressive weight loss; treatment difficult	unknown

Behavior Problems in Dogs

There are many behavioral problems in dogs that leave us wondering: Why are they doing that? What are the causes and what can I do to stop such behavior? Some of the more frequently reported behavioral problems are described below.

Destructive behavior
Destructive behavior is one of the most common complaints from dog owners, and hence necessitates the most in-depth discussion. A dog quickly ceases to be ‘man’s best friend’ when he/she scratches up a prized rug, chews up a favourite sweater, or eats an expensive pair of shoes. Destructive behavior is due to many causes, including separation anxiety. Many owners are gone from the house for many hours during the day, and the result is that the dog has more opportunity to develop destructive behavior The problem with this is that owners come home and see the chewed object and will punish the dog at that time. The dog will not associate the act of destruction to the punishment because they will not understand exactly why you are upset. They will act ‘guilty’ because they know you are upset, but they will not associate your anger with their act of destroying the object. Therefore, do not punish a dog for its behavior unless you catch him in the act.

Another reason for destructive behavior is lack of environmental stimulation. Boredom may be a cause, or at least a contributing factor, especially in young or large dogs that do not receive adequate exercise. Dogs need environmental stimulation. Obtaining a second pet or providing interesting and interactive toys for the dog may help. For example, a hollow toy filled with solid treats or peanut butter encourages the dog to interact with the ball to get at the treats.

Finally, destructive behavior could also occur due to barrier frustration. This may result if the dog has been punished by being put in a closed room or into a fenced yard, or it may be caused by the presence of something very desirable on the other side of the barrier. In these cases, the dog will try hard to break through the barrier and may destroy the door frame or door knobs, for example.

To treat destructive problems, one must determine the exact cause of the behavior and remedy this cause accordingly. For example, a young dog that is chewing furniture but not doorways is mostly likely in need of more environmental stimulation. Increasing exercise, providing another animal companion, putting the radio on, decreasing anxiety, or giving chew toys only when the owners are away are other treatments.

Preventing such behavior from developing is always easier than trying to treat it afterwards. Puppy owners should avoid giving the puppy old shoes or a piece of rug to chew on because the animal will not be able to differentiate between an old sneaker and the new leather dress shoe. Dog toys should be provided, but they should be a type and texture that the dog can easily distinguish from forbidden objects. It is also a good idea to be consistent when presenting toys to the dog and make it obvious that the toy indeed belongs to the dog. Puppies should be left in their crate when the owners are gone from the house. The crate should not be the place where you confine the dog as punishment. The crate is their ‘den’ and the puppy should learn that it is their own safe haven.

Aggression
Aggression is also a common complaint from dog owners and is a serious threat to public safety. Refer to the article on aggression and biting at http://pets.ca/articles/article-dog-aggression.htm for more information. Biting should be discouraged during puppy-hood. Refer to the article on what to do if you have a ‘mouthy puppy’ here: http://pets.ca/articles/article-dogmouthy.htm

Excessive barking
Excessive barking can be disruptive to you and the neighbours. But before considering drastic surgery such as debarking (which is not recommended), determine where and when the dog is barking. If it occurs only when out in the backyard alone, the solution is to keep the dog indoors and accompany the dog on a leash outside. More commonly, dogs bark at strangers or visitors to the house. This is due to territorial behavior and the dog is simply protecting his/her property – that may include you. It is your task to teach the dog to stop inappropriate barking. Use positive reinforcement to modify the dog’s behavior For example, when the dog barks, call him/her over or command him/her to sit and reward with a tasty treat. Do not use negative punishment because it may cause fear in the dog, which may exacerbate the barking problem. For more on eliminating barking problems, refer to the article here: http://pets.ca/articles/article-dog_barking.htm or here: http://pets.ca/articles/article-bark-alone.htm

Jumping up on people
Jumping up on people is a common behavioral problem that is usually minor, unless the dog is very large or the owner has small children. The problem persists because the dog continues to receive the attention that he/she wants. The best solution is to train the dog that jumping up will get him/her no attention. Ignore the dog completely when he/she attempts to jump up on you. Look upward and fold your arms across your chest so the dog receives no physical or visual contact. Command the dog to sit calmly. Once he/she sits, you may reward with attention. Be consistent and have the entire family participate in this training. The dog will soon learn that jumping up will get him/her no attention.

Pica
Pica is defined as the abnormal ingestion of materials that are not normally food. These include soil, gravel, or feces. Puppies are notorious for eating inappropriate objects that must sometimes be surgically removed from the gastrointestinal tract. Occasionally, pica may be a sign of a deficiency in their diet, but more frequently, it is simply due to the animal’s own curiosity. One of the most troubling forms of pica is the ingestion of feces (coprophagia). Unless the feces contains parasites, coprophagia affects the owner’s aesthetic values more than the dog’s health. However, to change such a habit, owners can sprinkle pepper on the feces to make it less appealing to the dog. Another approach is to inject hot sauce into the center of feces so the dog cannot smell that it has been been altered.

Excessive licking
Self-mutilation is a behavioral problem caused by excessive licking and/or biting of the animal’s own body. The affected areas can progress to lick granulomas (hairless areas of thickened, irritated skin) or more serious, infected wounds. An indication of the dog licking at an area is discolouration of the fur. Saliva will cause fur to redden. In the absence of other diseases that cause itching (such as parasites or allergies), this self-mutilation has a psychological cause. Boredom, changes in the environment, or other stress factors are examples of possible causes.

Tail chasing
Tail chasing is a phenomenon that is often humorous to people. However, it should be considered a behavior problem and should not be encouraged. The cause is unknown. Restraint seems to exacerbate the problem, so eliminating cage confinement and distracting the dog while he/she is chasing may help. Tail chasing is also often a sign of boredom and inadequate exercise.

Phobias
Dogs have an interesting variety of phobias, including fear of thunderstorms, fireworks, street noises, or cars. Occasionally, the phobia can be traced to a bad experience that the dog had in the past. A common phobia is fear of thunderstorms. Those dogs may become frantic or try to run away during storms. In severe cases, the dog will try to escape by clawing through doors, or jumping high fences. The presence of the owner or a blanket to cover the dog often helps. Progressive desensitization for thunder phobias is a commonly used treatment method. A good quality recording of thunder is played quietly to the dog while positive reinforcement is given, such as treats. The volume of the recording is increased progressively as the dog becomes more and more comfortable with the noise. This can be done daily in 10-minute sessions. If the problem is very serious, calming medication may be needed during storms.

Car chasing/Running away
Car chasing and running away are problems that can be prevented by keeping the dog on a leash, under voice control, or in a sturdy pen at all times. If you wish to let your dog off-leash, do so in a fenced backyard or designated fenced dog park. Once a dog has learned to chase cars or to roam, it can often find ways to escape confinement, so restraint as well as behavioral modification methods should be used. For example, squirting the dog with a water pistol or frightening him/her with a loud noise (i.e. an empty pop can filled with pebbles dropped on the ground behind the dog) can discourage the dog from running onto the road.

Digging holes
Digging holes in the yard is a problem that arises when the dog is trying to escape from the yard. Dogs also dig to keep cool or to catch rodents. If the dog is left outdoors during hot weather, ensure the dog has a cool shelter with plenty of water available. Eliminate rodents and put chicken wire where the dog likes to dig to deter it. If the dog is a natural digger like a Terrier then the digging has a genetic component. Consider giving the dog an area where it is allowed to dig.

Finding Pet Related Services Close to Home

The truth be told, our pets are like members of our family - only better. They never second-guess us, their love is unconditional, their companionship sees us through lonely times, and they're with us through thick and thin. Unlike our human families, though, our pets are unable to take care of themselves. It's up to us to find the pet related services that they need in order to live long and healthy lives.

An Online Pet Directory

Thanks to the Internet, it's possible to find a wealth of pet related services close to wherever you may be. If you live in New South Wales, for example, you can easily use an online pet services directory to find a breeder, a pet shop, or a vet in your area. If you're on holiday with your pet and he or she gets sick or is injured, you can quickly go online to find a nearby vet.

More than Pet Supplies

An online directory of pet related services can be much more than a source for pet supplies, or a tool to find a listing for a pet store near your home. It can also provide pet lovers and would-be pet owners with an abundance of information about all kinds of pet-related topics. For example, if you're considering setting up an aquarium, the dizzying array of tanks and supplies can be paralyzing. You need sound advice on the differences between freshwater and saltwater aquariums, which among the hundreds of varieties of fish you should choose, and the steps you can take to ensure that your fish thrive.

Likewise, you might be considering adopting a dog, but aren't sure if your lifestyle is one that's compatible with dog ownership. A comprehensive pet related services site will discuss the issues involved with adopting and caring for a dog, as well as offer guidelines for finding reputable organizations from which to adopt a dog.

Or, perhaps you have rabbits and would like to add a guinea pig to your family. You may not know that rabbits and guinea pigs aren't compatible because the species tend to fight, or that feeding guinea pigs food made for rabbits could lead to a vitamin C deficiency in the guinea pigs. Whether you have a cat, bird, horse, or reptile, a good website will give you the information and support you need to ensure that your pets lead long, happy lives.

An Online Community

People who love their pets - and who doesn't? - love to talk about them, learn more about their favorite breeds, and find new sources of pet products. There are websites offering pet related services that also enable you to post and read pet classified ads, let you sign up for free newsletters, and offer you the latest in pet supplies.

Finding an informative pet related services site will provide you with everything from vets and breeders to articles and products designed to keep you up to date and your beloved pets with the best owners they could wish for.

Doggy day care

Doggie Daycare is a way of maintaining the happiness as well as the well being of the dog. You being the owner cannot deprive your dog of this simple luxury. The Doggie Daycare centers provide care to all the dogs from pups to big dogs in a friendly and adventurous manner. They clean your pet and ensure your dog’s safety indoors as well as outdoors. They allow your dogs to play with other dogs and keep them totally occupied. They ascertain that the environment for the dog is fun. They are committed in keeping the dogs healthy throughout the day.

You as an owner have to give this needy and vulnerable member of your family the privilege of the best entertainment of life at Doggie Daycare centers. It is simple for you. You can drop your bet in the care of these doggie daycare centers in the morning while you are leaving for work and collect your pet in the evening while returning home. You can slowly find a considerable change of behavior in your dog. It will become well mannered, obedient and will handle things in a peaceful way. The caretakers offer abundance of physical and mental exercise and also train them to sniff and play and delve into exploring things.

Dogs were seen as a mere companion, but now with the arrival of such Doggie Daycares, the awareness of your dogs to be given equal opportunity to enhance its social and metal skills has become essential. Fortunately, they provide legitimate service and this is mandatory to alleviate boredom and to keep it employed the whole day. Dogs are allowed to run, play and jump and are encouraged to spend quality time in playgroups and indoor games. The dogs in the Doggie daycare are treated as children are treated in the school. They tutor the dogs to swim in the pools, play in the playground, lounge in the couch, relax in the nap time and have lunch at lunch time without any commotion.

Your dogs are trained in an astounding manner. They teach them social skills that help them in understanding how to interact with other dogs and how to greet them without barking. This training is of immense use as it teaches young puppies to maintain their potty schedule and hyper dogs are given enough outlets to exercise their energy. The dogs that were idle at your place without any extra activities gain weight which is reduced here at daycare. They make playgroups and entertain dogs of equal age to play and understand each other. This gives them a comfortable feeling and the special attention showered on them makes them feel they are wanted.

The genuine benefits derived from Doggie daycare are they develop skills in socialization and so there is a positive interaction with other dogs as well as people. They curb all the destructive behaviors and reinforce positive challenges. They decrease the separation anxiety and teach them necessary exercises to burn off excess energy. They stimulate the physical and mental ability and build confidence. These training bestow their owners to have a quality time with their pet in peace.

Is Your Pet Ready for the Big Road Trip?

By Kim Salerno
Planning to hit the road with your best friend? Before you do it’s important to plan ahead and always keep the best interests of your furry, four-legged, or feathered friend in mind. Traveling with your pet can be a wonderful and bonding experience or a not so pleasant one. It’s all function of proper planning and preparation.

Your first decision is whether to bring your pet along with you on your trip. Not all pets are suited for travel. While it may be very tempting to bring your pet with you, keep in mind that not all pets are happy travelers. Things to consider include your pet’s temperament, any physical impairments, or if your pet suffers from an illness. If you’re uncertain whether your pet is suited for travel, you may want to consult with your veterinarian.

If you determine that your pet is up for the trip, then it’s always best to have a healthy start. The last thing you need is a sick pet when traveling. This means a visit to the vet for a medical checkup and to ensure that your pet is up-to-date with all necessary vaccinations. The veterinarian can also issue a health certificate for your pet. If you and your pet will be traveling across state lines, you must obtain a recent health certificate and a certificate of rabies vaccination. If your plans include traveling with your pet from the United States to Canada, you will need to bring along a certificate issued by a veterinarian that clearly identifies the animal and certifies that your pet has been vaccinated against rabies during the preceding 36 month period. Be sure to contact the government of the province you plan to visit as each province has its own requirements.

Have a plan for how you’re going to properly restrain your pet in your vehicle. This is a crucial element of pet travel that is not taken seriously enough. The reality is that hundreds of pets are injured or even killed each year because they are allowed free reign in cars, trucks, RVs, and SUVs. Even more real is the toll in human life and property damage caused when an "enthusiastic" animal distracts a driver, leading to an accident. Vehicle pet barriers, pet safety harnesses, and pet carriers are all excellent ways to keep your pet (and you) safe when traveling in your vehicle. It’s important to familiarize your pet with the vehicle restraint of choice weeks or months before traveling so that they are comfortable.

In the unfortunate event that your pet runs off while you’re traveling. A temporary identification tag, along with a photo of your pet will help ensure their safe return. Attach a temporary ID tag to your pet’s collar in addition to their permanent tag. Include the address and phone number of where you’ll be staying along with your cell phone number and perhaps your email address. This is one of the most important aspects of traveling with your pet, but also one of the most overlooked. In addition, bring along a current photo of your pet. A photograph will make it easier for others to help you find your lost pet.
When packing for your pet include an ample supply of your pet's food. Don’t rely on stopping along the way to pick up their food or picking it up at your final destination. Their particular brand of food may not be readily available and it is not advisable to introduce your pet to a new brand of food while traveling. Other essentials to pack for your pet include collapsible travel food and water bowls, bedding, litter and litter box, leash, collar and tags, favorite toys, grooming supplies, a pet first-aid kit and any necessary medications. And of course…be sure to always have an ample supply of water available for your pet.
If you’re planning a long journey and will need to stay in pet friendly accommodations on the way to your final destination, be sure to secure these accommodations BEFORE you hit the road. Map out where you'll be spending the night and arrange for lodging along the way. TRIPSwithPETS.com provides an online directory of pet friendly accommodations across the U.S. Pet policies do change and accommodations may be limited so it's recommended that you contact the property in advance.
In case of a medical emergency while traveling you can find a directory of pet hospitals on the TRIPSwithPETS.com website. Research this before your trip and bring this information along with you. It is also advisable to bring along your own vet’s contact information should they be needed for consultation.
Careful preparation is the key to ensuring that you and your pet have a happy and safe trip. Check back next month when we talk about “Rules of the Road” when traveling with your pet!

Choosing Pet Clothes for Different Seasons and Occasions

After a hectic and busy day, you will feel good when your pets with pretty gestures welcome you. Pet lovers always consider their pets as one among their family members and take a lot of care for their needs. One product which all the pet lovers show interest is the Pet clothes. When you clothe them, you protect them from the changing weather conditions. Even though the pets have natural fur and hair for protection from cold, clothes adds more beauty and the pets also look very cute by wearing varieties of pet clothes.

The pet clothing for your pet depends on your living environment. If you are residing in a cold region your pet may be exposed to cold climate for a long duration and hence you have to choose thick clothes for your pet. When you are residing in a place with temperate weather condition, you have to unbutton your pet clothes and so you have to buy thin coats for your pets.

Though there are multiple reasons for dressing your pet, you don't have to be worried about your pet clothes if any of the following fits with your pet. When the density of hair and fur is more on your pet, you don't have to additionally burden them with pet clothes. When you live in a hot climate your pet will not enjoy getting dressed. Lastly, if you’re pet refuses the pet clothes offered to it, don't force such clothes on it and don't ever try to make it wear pet clothes that it does not prefer. You can always beautify them by other means like hairstyles, jewelries etc.

Pet clothes are having increasing popularity as a lot of stores and suppliers now offer different ranges of pet clothes. Pet clothes are available in different varieties and styles for pet dogs when compared with other pets. This may be because the dogs show more of cooperation in getting dressed. Mostly sale of the pet clothes are focused towards pet owners who are fashion conscious and clothes are marketed with the multiple benefits your pet attains out of using them. Normally after winter walk, pets get tired and their body temperature undergoes sudden change and pet clothes can prevent them from catching cold. Another important benefit of providing clothing for your pet is to safeguard the pet's skin from scratching or aggravating any itching area. If your pet has undergone an invasive operation, then the pet clothes will protect the wound till it's healed. Some pet clothes are exclusively available for preventing family way in pets. Though it may look awkward but it prevents the number of pets in your home from increasing.

Most of the pet lovers choose sports style pet clothes like hooded tops, faux leather jackets, trendy vests, T-shirts and colorful knits as they add more of uniqueness in their appearance. Other fashionable clothes are pet's shoes and boots with matching pyjamas and there are also trouser suits that are waterproof available for your lovable pets. On special days if you don't want your pet to be left out, you can buy fancy costumes. The famous fancy pet clothes are bridesmaid outfit, wedding gowns, tuxedos, and seasonal costumes. When you love your pet and can afford more budgets you can buy fashionable pet clothes as a gift for your pet.

10-Week Basic Dog Obedience Training Formula

Learning new things can be stressful for your dog especially in the beginning when concepts and teaching methods are new. If your dog refused to eat during the early stages of training, stop the program and have a play session or calm your dog until it is relaxed and begins to accept treats again. This process may require 3 to 4 sessions but it is worth going through it to develop your dog’s positive attitude towards obedience.

Conduct 3 training sessions a day, each session lasting approximately 20 minutes while allowing at least 1 hour rest in-between sessions. In a 2-week period, there should be a total of 30 sessions.

Week 1 And Week 2

1) Teach your dog the “heel” command. Repeat a series of 3 to 5 circles and perform 5 series of 4-step “heels” per session.
2) Teach the “sit” and “release” command. Command your dog to “sit”, let it stay in the sit position for a moment then give the “release” command to release your dog from the “sit”. Repeat this series 5 times per session.
3) For each session, work on a series of 1 exercise and move to another exercise (i.e., work on one series of 4-step “heel”, then a series of “sit” and “break”, and finally a series of 4-step “heels”’).

Although dogs need repetition to learn a skill, you need a variety of exercises to keep them interested as they bore easily.

Week 3 And Week 4

1) Reinforce the “heel” command. Test the “heel” command from lessons learned from week 1 and week 2.
2) Reinforcing the “sit” and “release” command. Begin training your dog to hold the “sit” position starting from 5 seconds and gradually stretching the time to 10 seconds.
3) Begin teaching your dog the “down” command (use treats to lure your dog to teach it the command). Repeat the series 2 times per session in week 3 and 3 times per session in week 4.

Week 5 And Week 6

1) Continue to reinforce and test the “heel”, “sit” and “release” commands. Begin to include distractions when training “heel” and “sit” to train your dog to continue focusing on you even there are distractions.
2) Extend the concept of holding position to build patience by extending the “sit” from 5 – 10 seconds to 30 seconds – 1 minute before releasing the “sit” command.

When you test your dog, you should repeat each test until it passes the test 3 consecutive times.

3) Start to reinforce the “down” command in week 5 by removing the treat and shoulder help. During week 6, begin reinforcing without any bodily assistance. You can reintroduce treats as the reward but do not tempt your dog. Only reward your dog after it has successfully completed the “down” command.

Training sessions may become more stressful for both you and your dog as you progress from the teaching phase and enter into the more difficult reinforcing phase. If you find a particular test too tough for both of you; stop the exercise and continue to practice the skills individually, you can repeat that particular test a few days later.

While the length and regularity of the sessions remain unchanged since the first week, the sessions are becoming less predictable and require varieties to make them as interesting and effective as they can be.

Week 7 And Week 8

1) While continuing to reinforce and test the “heel”, “sit” and “release” commands, don’t forget to reinforce the “down” command as well. In 1 of every 3 sessions, add distractions to your basic commands. Improve “down from a stand” exercise with the “down” command.
2) Extend the time-span of the holding position and begin teaching the “stay” command.
3) Begin combining the different commands when training. Teach “sit” and “down” from your front and testing motion “down” and motion “sit”.
4) Start teaching the “come” command. Put your dog on “sit/stay” position, while walking backwards monitor the position holding skills. Body language plays an important role in teaching this command and sending the wrong signals sometimes causes your dog not to hold the position.

Week 9, Week 10 And After

1) Reinforce “stay” and “come” command. Always practice a short leash recall to reinforce the final finish position. Repeat at least 10 times per session. “Come” is the most important command but the least practiced of all the other commands.
2) Conduct test and reinforce all obedience commands. Practice all commands equally, working on each command as little as 1 or as many as 5 repetitions per series though you should avoid creating patterns.

Make exercises targeted towards your practical obedience application. Include distraction training in at least 1 out of every 3 obedience practice sessions.


DogTrainster aims to educate dog owners and lovers to adopt positive training approaches in training their dogs. To learn more us, visit us at DogTrainster.com - Ultimate Resource and Tips for Dog Training

How To Prevent A Dog Bite

Dog breeds in general have similar characteristics. Some dog breeds are more likely to kill than others and some breeds are more protective of their masters and physical surrounding than others. There has been a 20 year study to determine which dog breeds are more likely to actually kill human beings. This United States study was done for the years 1979 through 1998.

This study tracks 238 human deaths from dog attacks during a 20 year period. 24% of these attacks involved unrestrained dogs off their owners property. 58% of the deaths involved unrestrained dogs on their owners property. 17% involved restrained dogs on their owners property and less than 1% involved a restrained dog off the owners property.

Some of the conclusions of the study are not suprising. Yes, certain breeds are more likely to kill than others. Yes, deaths from dog attack are quite rare. Also it is sometimes difficult to determine the actual breed of a dog. Communities who try to ban specific dog breeds for public safety will find it difficult to define the parameters of what constitutes that breed.

Several factors interact with the dog to enhance the possibility of a human being attacked by a dog besides the breed of the dog. These factors include heredity, sex, early experience, socialization, training, health, reprodcutive status, quality of ownership and victum behavior. Additionally, this study did not look at intervening variable such as was the dog protecting his owner from serious harm or death or was the dog actually protecting himself from serious harm or death.

Male dogs are 6.2 times more likely to bite then female dogs. Sexually intact dogs,both male and female, are 2.6 more times likely to bite than neutered dogs and chained dogs are 2.8 times more likely to bite then unchained dogs.

One suprising conclusion of several studies is the fact that many varieties of dogs have been involved in a fatal human attack for one reason or another. Topping the list of deaths by dog in a twenty year period is the Pit Bull and Pit Bull mix at 66 human deaths. The Rottweiler and Rottweiler mix was responsibe for 39 human deaths. The German Shepherd dog and mix were responsible for 17 human deaths. The Husky type dog was responsible for 15 human deaths as was the Malamute responsible for 12 human deaths. The Chow Chow was responsible for 8 deaths while the Doberman was responsible for 9 human deaths. The Saint Bernard was responsible for 7 human deaths and the Great Dane was also responsible for 7 deaths. The Akita killed 4 people, the Bulldog 2, the Mastiff 2, the Boxer 2 and believe it or not the Labrador Retriever was responsible for 1 death while Lab mixes were responsible for 4 deaths. The following dogs were responsible for killing one human each during these twenty years: The Bullmastiff, Cheasapeake Bay Retriever, West Highland Terrier, Japanese Hunting Dog, Newfoundland, Coonhound, Sheepdog, Rhodesian Ridgeback and cocker Spaniel.

The conclusion that I make from this study is that almost any dog of size can be dangerous, particularly to children. Dogs must be properly trained, supervised, and care must be taken when choosing a breed with the propensity to be aggressive. Most important, keep young children away from male, sexually intact, chained dogs.

Below 40 Degrees Outside - Bring Your Pets In!

Care for your pets in cold weather just as you care for yourself. They depend on you to be sensitive to their needs and health. Animals left outside when temperatures fall below 40 degrees are not only subject to hypothermia, but they can even die.

Here are some tips to help make your animal companions more comfortable and safe during winter’s cold days and nights.

Keep your pets indoors, even if they have an enclosed cage or doghouse outside. Short-hair dogs and puppies are especially susceptible to frigid temperatures. An unheated garage or basement isn’t always the solution. Use a thermometer to determine if the temperature is consistently above 40 degrees.

If for some reason you are unable to bring your dog indoors, check their outdoor sleeping quarters for the following necessities. Doghouses should be large enough for your dog to stand up and turn around in and to allow for sleeping in a curled position, but it should not be too large. A large doghouse allows too much of the animal’s body heat to escape. The floor of the house should be raised a few inches off the ground and dry fresh bedding should be spread inside. Cedar shavings are the best if you don’t have a heated bed or mat. When using a heated mat, be sure it doesn’t cover the entire floor of the house to allow the dog to choose the degree of warmth needed. A flap of carpet over the opening will help hold in the heat.

Heated water bowls not only keep the water from freezing, but the warm water also helps to keep the core temperature of the animal’s body warmer.

Conduct regular ’paw checks’ for dogs brought in from outdoors. Be sure to clean away snow or ice from between toes and dry the paw pads thoroughly. Moisture, salt and other de-icers from sidewalks or roads can become trapped between the animal’s toes and cause sores or irritation to the point of bleeding.

Car engines provide a warm, inviting sleeping place for cats left out in the cold or in a garage, but serious injuries can be caused by the fan belt when the car is started. Be sure to tap loudly on the car hood or honk the horn before starting your car. Of course, cats are just as susceptible to frigid temperatures as dogs, so the best plan is to bring them indoors for the winter. There are heated beds and mats specifically for cats if they must be left in a cold garage or basement.

Antifreeze tastes sweet and delicious to your pet, but it is a deadly poison. Clean up any radiator drainage spots with water immediately. Ask for brands of antifreeze that are now safer for pets and more environmentally sound.

Frequent brushing of indoor pets is even more important in winter to remove dead skin and hair and help stimulate the animal’s oil glands. Low humidity can lead to dry, itchy skin and increased shedding.

Bottom line - use common sense when caring for your pets. Their life is in your hands.

How A Good Pet Care Guide Keeps The Vet Away

Just like human beings, animals have emotions and feelings too. They need the assurance that their masters love and care for them. In return, pets often reciprocate their love by demonstrating various forms of affection to their owners. These may include making soft purring sounds, licking and even body contacts like rubbing their heads or furs against them.

Pet care is an important responsibility of pet ownership. Pet care requires a lot of patience and is also a way of showing the animals that they are important to us. Pet care will include feeding our pets carefully and ensure that they are groomed properly to maintain a good health.

There are educational videos on pet care, that is, how to maintain the wellness and health of pets. These include various demonstrations on how to care for the different types of pets and what are the attentions required.

For four-legged pets such as dogs and cats, good pet care will include giving them regular baths, checking their paws and ears, trimming their nails as well as fixing regular health checks with a professional veterinarian.

Sanitation plays an important role to the health of the pets and their owners. Bathe your pets regularly and ensure that they are clean at all times. Buy a set of dishes especially for the pets and keep them separately from those used by human beings. After every use, wash the pets’ dishes thoroughly with soap and water, then give them a final rinse them with boiling water.

It is common for pets, especially dogs, to have fleas. Their bites are irritating and annoying; and make the pets feel uncomfortable if the scratching developed into skin rashes. Fleas are also the cause of other more dangerous and serious skin problems such as allergies or dermatitis. As such, good pet care will include conducting regular checks on the animals and getting rid of the fleas.

Dental care is another essential part of pet care. Most canine pets need to maintain a proper dental healthcare routine. A professional pet shop owner will be able to demonstrate the correct way to brush the animals’ teeth. This will prevent gum diseases or other health conditions related to poor oral hygiene.

Products such as detergents, cleaners, fertilizers and pesticides, must be kept well out of the way in the house. These contain chemicals that may be lethal or poisonous to animals and should not be within their reach. This is another way to exercise proper pet care.

Every pet owner, especially those first time owners, should be prepared for the big responsibility of having and owning a pet, as pet care takes more than just skills and experience. Value the existence of nature’s creations and ensure that the animals are given the best pet care. Lastly, always choose the best pet products and supplies so that your pet will have the best nutrition and pet care available.

A medium sized wild cat, the African Golden Cat is a reclusive feline of equatorial Africa. Profelis Aurata, the cat is believed to be closely related to the Caracal and Serval, though it is often termed as the Leopard’s Brother owing to the co-existence of the two cats in certain parts of their range. Body length is usually around two and a half feet with a longish one foot tail. Adults weigh between twenty to forty pounds and reach a shoulder height of around one and a half feet. Males are larger overall.

Coloration of the African Golden Cat varies across its range from reddish brown to silver gray. Melanistic variants have also been recorded. It is even suggested that the fur may change color in a single individual over time and external influences. Head and body are often spotted whereas the underside is usually white. Tail is lined at its origin and ends in a black or brown tip. Head and ears are small and rounded. Legs are longish with somewhat oversized paws.

Strong and secretive felines, the African Golden Cats are crepascular in their activity profile. They often spend the day resting in tree branches. Hunting is primarily through the stalk and ambush method. Small animals including rodents, tree hydraxes and birds are usually taken, though reports of the cat preying on small antelopes, monkeys and hog have also emerged. In areas where human settlements are next to national parks, domestic livestock and poultry are also reported to be consumed by the cats.

Residing in parts of Central and West Africa, the cats seem to prefer tropical rainforests with dense undergrowth. Two subspecies are recognized, based upon the African Golden Cat’s distribution:

Profelis Aurata Aurata - Uganda to Congo

Profelis Aurata Celidogaster - West Africa

Little is known about the exact behaviour patterns of the African Golden Cat owing to its reclusive lifestyle and limited research on it. Still it is believed to be a largely solitary feline. Males are thought to take an active part in parenting though. Gestation period is around two and a half months after which one to three kittens are born. The young grow quickly and gain maturity at one and a half years of age.

Even though not much is understood about the numbers in the wild of the African Golden Cat, the cat is classified as vulnerable. Principal threats include loss of habitat owing to deforestation for timber and loss of prey species to bushmeat hunting. Lifespan in captivity is believed to be upto fifteen years.

Considering a Pet Bird? Ask Yourself These 7 Critical Questions

Birds can make wonderful pets and companions and there are many different birds to choose from. Two of the most popular are cockatiels and parakeets. Cockatiels and parakeets make wonderful pets that only require simple daily care. They don't take up a lot of space, they eat small amounts of food, and they don't require a daily walk outside.

They love being around people and often want out of their cages just so they can be closer to you. Some even learn to talk. You're not alone in considering a pet bird. In fact, according to the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association (APPMA), birds are the 3rd most popular pet behind cats and dogs.

It all sounds great doesn't it? Slow down a little bit, before you rush out to buy a cockatiel or a parakeet, take some time to think about whether or not you are ready for a bird companion. There are a few things for you to consider before you decide if you're ready for the responsibilities that comes with parakeets and cockatiels.Do yourself a favor and don't buy a parakeet or cockatiel until you ask yourself the following questions:

Do I have enough patience for a bird? Cockatiels and parakeets are social animals and they like attention. You should give them at least a half an hour of attention a day to keep them happy.Am I a neat freak? All birds (not just cockatiels and parakeets) can be fairly messy. You're probably going to have some feathers and bird seed to pick up around the cage.

Can I care for my bird properly? You're taking the right first step by looking for information about birds. It's important for you to know all of your cockatiel's or parakeet's needs before you bring him or her home.Don't make the mistake of assuming that since you already have a dog, cat or some other pet, that you know how to take care of a bird. Birds have very different needs than other pets.

I'm afraid it's a little more complicated than sticking your bird in a cage and giving it water and birdseed. Do I have room in my house for a bird cage and other 'bird accessories"? You need to think about where you're going to place the cage in your house before you walk in the door with it. And remember, the bigger the bird, the bigger the cage. (Be sure to study the do's and don't of cage placement.

There are places in your house that are very dangerous for your bird.)Do I have the time to give my bird what it needs? In addition to the time you should spend with your bird giving him or her attention, you should spend some time preparing meals for your bird. A proper diet for a healthy cockatiel or parakeet includes fresh vegetables and fruits - not just seeds.

Exactly what type of bird (and how many) do I want? Decide whether you want a female or a male bird. Maybe you would like to have a pair of birds so that you can breed them. It's easier to think through these types of questions now instead of waiting until you're talking to a breeder.Am I ready for a long-term commitment? As I said above, it's not unusual for cockatiels to live 15-20 years and parakeets can live 12-14 years. Getting a pet bird is a long-term commitment.

Please don't get a cockatiel or a parakeet thinking that you're going to "try it for a while". There are already too many birds in rescue and adoption centers.Pet birds can bring a lot of fun and happiness into your home. If you don't know what to expect before you bring one home, you may be in for a surprise. However, if you've gone through the checklist above and decided that you're ready for a new feathered family member, then congratulations! Get ready for a long, loving and happy relationship.

Natural Flea Remedies for Dogs

While companies boast the effectiveness of traditional flea control methods for dogs, some reports indicate that they can be toxic, and in some cases cause hot spots, allergies, and compromised immune function. In rarer cases, these methods have been fatal. As a result, more and more owners are looking to find safe and effective alternatives to flea shampoos, powders, collars, and the like. The following may help reduce the incidence of fleas for your dog.

1. General Diet. There's a nutritional reason why your dog has fleas, and it could be in large part that your dog’s immune system may be compromised. A strong immune system and high nutrient levels naturally deter fleas and other insects. In particular, the levels of B complex, zinc, selenium and antioxidants in the body and bloodstream play a large role in immune function. By feeding your animals a high-quality, natural diet, free of additives and preservatives, you improve their health and dramatically increase their protection from fleas. A healthy animal does not taste or smell as good to fleas.

2. Dietary Supplements. Garlic. 1-3 fresh garlic cloves-pulverized and mixed with food—may be administered daily. Brewer’s Yeast/Thiamine. The potent nutrient found in brewer’s yeast is thiamine. One milligram (1 mg) of thiamine daily for each five pounds of your pet's body weight is ideal. For a large dog, you might administer one tablespoon of brewer's yeast supplemented with a B-complex vitamin pill. Brewer's yeast can also be dusted on externally as a flea powder. (If your pet licks some off, there's no harm done.)Zinc. This mineral is essential for healthy skin, but is lacking in many pets' diets. Use chelated (pronounced key-lated) zinc: 10 mg daily for small dogs; 20 mg for larger canines.These dietary supplements will require close to a month to build up to flea-fighting levels in a pet's skin. So start them in the spring before you find yourself in the midst of a severe flea invasion.

3. Vinegar—internal use. Take a gallon of water, add four to six teaspoons of organic white vinegar, and give it to your pets as their only drinking water. If they have a water dish outside, use this water for that as well. During the winter, you can use a smaller amount (~ 4 teaspoons), but you’ll want to use a more potent mixture (~ 6 teaspoons) during flea season.

4. Grooming. Combing your dog daily with a flea comb is an important part of flea control. Bathing animals regularly is also advised.

5. Bathing and Shampooing. There is no need to use chemical flea shampoos. A water bath with a gentle soap that won't irritate their skin is sufficient to eliminate existing fleas. You can also use bentonite or terramin clay mixed with water into a thin paste. Wet your dog thoroughly, then in brush the clay into the fur and massage it in the skin for a few minutes. Then rinse off lightly.

6. Organic red or white vinegar as skin remedy. Vinegar is a naturally occurring germ killer and is one of the very first medicines known to man. It kills germs on contact and it contains bacteria which is unfriendly to infectious micro-organisms. It is a natural remedy and most of all, it is safe. For a full body treatment, add four cups of vinegar to the bath water. Be careful not to get the vinegar/water mixture in the ears and eyes. The vinegar/water rinses are a quick remedy to relieve minor skin irritations such as hives, chigger bites, other insect bites and rashes.

7. Neem Oil as skin remedy. The seeds, bark and leaves of the neem plant contain compounds with proven antiseptic, antiviral, antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, anti-ulcer, and antifungal uses. For thousands of years, the Indian people have appreciated the medicinal and insect-repellent properties of neem leaves and seeds. Mix one ounce of pure neem oil with 2 or 3 ounces of organic white vinegar and 4 to 6 ounces of water. Before applying, hose your dog thoroughly with water. Shake the bottle well several times while applying the oil mixture on the entire body, including legs, feet, tail, etc. Then brush your dog to help disperse the neem oil futher on fur and skin. Do not rinse off. Neem oil repels flea immediately and help heal hotspots and promote a healthy skin.

Dog Pregnancy Tips

Breeding dogs is an exciting experience. From the time a proper mate is found to the point that the puppies are born, it is crucial to take careful steps to make this successful.

Professional dog breeders do not breed frequently and will only do so when a pair is found to be healthy that will ensure the birth of healthy offspring. The ideal breeder should have the pair of dogs tested for every possible disease as well as have all the information regarding the pair’s ancestors and health records on file.

Should a breeder find no problem in the history of the pair, then the process can begin. Dogs normally come into heat twice a year which is every six months.

Larger dogs can come into heat every eight or ten months which usually lasts about three weeks. Vaginal bleeding is a sure sign that the dog is in heat as well as swelling in the vulva. A dog's pregnancy or gestation period lasts between 60 to 67 days.

Most dogs give birth after 63 days.

The only way to determine the stage of the dog’s pregnancy is by keeping the track of time from the day of the breeding.

Keeping a record of this on file is advisable for reference purposes. Exactly three weeks after breeding, the mother must be examined to confirm the pregnancy.

The dog must be given a formulated and premium brand of dog food for the duration of the pregnancy and throughout the nursing period preferably with strong nutritional foundation. During pregnancy, the mother's food consumption will almost double compared to the pre-pregnancy level so increased feeding must be given to ensure that there is enough for both the dog and the puppies.

Behavioral changes are to be expected during this time. The dog will demand for more affection or may experience a few days of vomiting. Later on, the expectant mother will search for a secure place to deliver the puppies. So, one must ensure that a proper place is ready when the time comes. An ideal place for an expecting mother is a box.

Depending on the size of the dog, it must be spacious enough for the dog to move around and must have layers of newspaper inside it that will absorb birthing fluids. This should also have low sides for the mother to look outside and for the breeder to easily check if assistance is needed to make it easy to remove soiled papers without interrupting the mother and the newborn puppies.

Four Common Skin Problems in Dogs

Dogs are susceptible to various skin problems -- which can be frustrating for owners who want to see Fido comfortable and happy.

your dog have a skin problem, and if so, how do you fix it?That depends on the symptoms you see. Of course, the most common sign of a possible skin problem in your dog is constant, excessive itching. Other symptoms include fur loss, either localized in a certain location or spread across the dog’s entire body. More severe cases may involve redness in the skin, changes in skin pigmentation or even open sores that your dog constantly licks.

No particular symptom necessarily proves your four-footed friend has a certain type of skin disorder, and you’ll need to investigate other areas before you draw conclusions. While it’s common and helpful for veterinarians to diagnose skin problems, it’s also essential for dog owners like you to familiarize yourself with typical canine skin problems, so you can react quickly and keep his discomfort to a minimum.

Fleas, Lice and TicksOne of the most common problems in dogs is the presence of fleas, lice and ticks, which are parasites that live on the surface of the skin and feed on the dog’s blood. These parasites’ saliva causes skin irritation and results in intense scratching. Lice and ticks can be detected visually when you check your dog’s fur, while fleas are hard to spot with the naked eye. However, fleas cause red pimple marks on the skin and also can be spotted through the black, gritty trail of “dirt” they leave on a dog’s belly.

While you can remove ticks and lice with tweezers -- applying alcohol to relax the tick’s grip before doing so -- you can also adopt more general methods. For instance, you can give your dog a dip with special tick shampoo to eliminate ticks. Flea sprays or flea powder can also be applied to the dog to kill parasites. But all these require persistence and it may be a while before you see results. One of the best methods to keep your dog comfortable is to prevent ticks from living off your dog in the first place through the use of a spot-on product, such as FrontLine or BioSpot.

To apply these chemicals, you drip a small amount onto the back of your dog’s neck once a month. The chemical spreads throughout the dog’s skin and kills parasites -- including the eggs and larvae. When regularly treated, your dog becomes an unattractive host.MangeMange is a skin problem caused by mites that burrow underneath the dog’s skin, causing intense and even agonizing itching. Bald spots or inflamed red skin are common symptoms of mange.

Two types of mange exist in dogs: sarcoptic mange and demodectic mange, depending on the kind of mite involved.Most dogs carry the mites involved in demodectic mange or demodex. However, these mites usually do not cause itching except when they suddenly multiply into huge numbers. This may happen in young puppies, or in dogs with decreased natural body defenses, sometimes from stress. On the other hand, Sacroptic mange or scabies causes intense itching in the dog as the mites burrow under the skin and even lay their eggs there.

This causes large red spots on the dog’s skin, and sometimes fur loss on the ears and elbows. Scabies can infect humans as well and cause itchiness, although infection in humans usually disappears by itself after a while. However, it is still important for people to seek treatment if they get infected.Treatment for mange requires patience and time, as eliminating them or lowering the mite population takes a while to take effect.

The best way to kill the mites is to soak your dog in a lime and sulfur medicated dip for 10 to 15 minutes a few times in a week. The dip should not be washed off, but left to dry on your dog’s skin and fur. During this time, it’s best to watch your dog closely and prevent him from licking himself dry. As a further precaution, you can feed him a raw egg to line his stomach before dipping him in the solution.

This way, even if he does lick himself, the solution won’t be absorbed on an empty stomach. When fighting mange, it’s also important to support your dog with the highest quality diet you can find, to improve his immune system. Healing from mange will take a lot of his internal resources. You might consider looking into the raw diet for dogs and avoiding any corn or rice-based products for the time being.

How to Clean Cat Urine

Ideas for how to clean cat urine stainsWhen cat urine seeps through carpet, into padding and down to the floor beneath, it can give your home an unpleasant aroma (to say the very least!).

In almost all cases, cat urine is the worst perpetrator of pet stains and pet odors. If you own a cat, it's important for you to know how to clean cat urine stains.The color of cat urine and its staining potential will often depend on dietary habits, age and sex of the cat, whether the cat is on medication, and the health of the cat. Urine can saturate absorbent materials such as carpet and padding, upholstery and mattresses well beyond the surface area that can effectively be cleaned. It is extremely difficult to remove all of the urine from inside of these materials. Even after a thorough cleaning, stains and odors often remain.

Tips on how to clean cat urine from the carpet:Removing cat urine from your carpet can be one of the most difficult cleaning tasks, since it produce an especially persistent, unpleasant odor and amber-colored stains, so here are a few things you can do to eliminate them, when the “accident” is happens. First, blot up as much of the urine as possible with a soft, clean white cloth or absorbent paper towel. Press down firmly (do not rub) for 30 seconds.

The more fresh urine you can remove before it dries, the simpler it will be to remove the odor. Remove the towel and repeat the process until the area is fully dried. Rinse the "accident zone" thoroughly with clean, cool water. After rinsing, remove as much of the water as possible by blotting it up. Next, you have some options on how to clean cat urine from the carpet:

1. Baking soda works well to eliminate surface (but not deeply penetrated) odors. Dampen the area with clean water and then sprinkle baking soda over it.

Rub the baking soda into the soiled area and let dry. Brush or vacuum to remove the dry material.2. Another option in the how to clean cat urine list is white vinegar. Mix together 1 quart warm water and 1/2 cup white vinegar, and dribble the mixture onto stain. Place dry towels over the stained area and put something heavy over the towels to increase the pressure. After some hours remove the towels and raise the nap of the carpet with a soft-bristled hairbrush.

Note: Test the vinegar solution on a piece of fabric that is hidden from view - under the cushion or on the backside of the furniture.3. To clean old or heavy stains in carpeting, consider renting an extractor or wet-vac from a local hardware store.

The extracting/wet-vac machines works like a vacuum cleaner and do the best job of forcing clean water through your carpet and then forcing the dirty water back out again. When you use these machines, you should follow the instructions carefully.

Note: Don't use any chemicals with these machines – they work much more effectively with plain water.4. One of the newest technologies for cleaning cat urine is penetrate the soiled area and deactivate the odor with peroxide or detergents. Simply spray a product that consist a 3% hydrogen peroxide and wait about five minutes. After that use a clean white absorbent cloth, blot the area, pressing down firmly (do not rub) for 30 seconds.

Repeat this blotting process until the area is dry. If the stain or odor persists, repeat the process.Once the soiled area is really clean, you should use a high-quality pet odor neutralizer. Test the affected surface for staining first, and read and follow the instructions. If the area still looks stained after it's completely dry from extracting and neutralizing, apply a specialized stain and odor removing bacteria/enzyme cleaner, such as "Outright Pet Stain Eliminator," "Pet 'Oops' Remover," or "Stain Gobbler".

Check out the online merchants and catalogers selling pet supplies.Tips on how to clean cat urine from your upholstery:When it is not possible to remove the cover of your couch or chair upholstery, observe the following cleaning procedures to get the cat urine out: Dab stubborn stains with a soft, clean white cloth or absorbent paper towel. If solvents are required, avoid applying them directly onto the stain, and pour it onto a clean cloth.

Clean the stain using a circular motion working from the outside inwards. After removing the stain, dry immediately with a hand held hairdryer using a cool setting. Take care to direct the air stream first towards the outside of the area working inwards. Always be careful to rub any stains gently and to use a brush with soft bristles.Tips to clean cat urine from hardwood floors:Remove any excrement and blot the entire wet area immediately and firmly with paper towels. Wash affected area several times with white vinegar. Rinse stain thoroughly with warm water.

Blot dry with paper towels. Apply a specialized stain and odor-removing bacteria or enzyme cleaner (see above). Tip: Read the instructions carefully before using these products and test them in an invisible area. If you can not remove some old stains, try sanding away the stain and resealing the wood. You must be extra vigilant about cat odor and attack the problems as soon as it occurs. Also you should remove all traces of the odor, because if the scent remains, the cat will do it again in the same spot.

How To Find A Puggle Dog

For those of you who don't know what a " Puggle " is, a puggle is a mix-breed dog in which a pug dog is bred with a beagle.Puggles have been the biggest rage in Hollywood as well as dog breed lovers alike.Many ask where to find a good puggle dog and we have some good puggle answers. Free ArticlesPuggles belong to the family of mixed breed dogs known as Designer Dogs and are often very expensive if bought at a pet shop. The problem with just buying these dogs from a pet shop is that there are many great mixed breed dogs that can easily be found at your local animal shelter or humane society.

I recently inquired about finding such dogs at a local shelter and they will even take down a wish-list of the type of dog you would like, so when your puggle shows up (or any other dog for that matter), you will be promptly notified. This is definitely a very humane method that gets overlooked often. Many upon many dog lovers have found their best companion from a animal shelter in which they would have been doomed for sure.

If you need a puggle puppy for sale quicker, check the paper, check the pet stores, check specific breeders of puggles but always remember to learn about their genetic history first.

A common problem that often exist is that people who are not commonly breeders will try to mate a pug and beagle without knowing anything about dog breeding and with little dog breed information. What often ends up happening as a result, the puggle will often have genetic disorders and problems as they get older. Another thing that many unskilled dog breeders overlook is temperment testing and finding the right mix to come out right. Puggle dogs are great animals and like any great animal they should be bred with respect and dignity.

It may seem like a contridiction in terms jumping from a animal shelter view to a qualified breeder view, but it all depends on the needs of the buyer. I personally would never want to see a love capable dog be put to sleep, however you do want a healthy dog that will be with you quite a long time. It is a catch 22 I guess.Puggle breeders are often very trained breeders who take pride in breeding a very nice puppy. Much controversy has been brought up from purebred owners in claims that puggles are simply a mutt. This is somewhat true however Puggle dogs can be well bred like any other dog plus have less of a tendency to be inbred due to overbreeding. This makes a smarter dog with less emotional problems often times. One thing is for certain though, puggle puppies are cute! Puggle puppies are sooo incredibley cute that they touch the hearts of all they come in counter with.

What Your Vet May Not Tell You About Rimadyl

Thousands of dogs are being prescribed Rimadyl by their veterinarians to treat pain, inflammation, and canine arthritis. Free ArticlesMany of these prescriptions are written without any blood work done to ensure the dog can tolerate the drug. Learn the facts about Rimadyl and what you should know before administering this drug to your dog.What is Rimadyl?Rimadyl was introduced by Pfizer Pharmaceuticals in January 1997 to help treat dogs with inflammation and pain associated with surgery or canine arthritis. Rimadyl is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) available as a prescription drug for dogs. The primary ingredient in Rimadyl is Carprofen. It is available as a caplet and chewable tablet and is given to dogs by mouth, or by injection administered by veterinarians. It has proven to be a successful means of relieving arthritis symptoms in dogs. Is Rimadyl effective and safe?

There is no doubt as to Rimadyl's effectiveness in treating dog arthritis, but it is the potential side effects that may seriously outweigh the benefits of this drug. Many dog owners feel it has vastly improved the quality of their dog's lives and, in some cases, even extended their lives. Many dogs have died due to the unexpectedly rapid onset of side effects such as liver failure and/or because the drug's side effects were not recognized by the attending veterinarian who did not take appropriate action. The Rimadyl labeling includes an extensive adverse reaction section which documents the possibility of a fatal outcome and death.What Precautions Should I Consider Before Giving Rimadyl?•

Pre-screen the dog before prescribing Rimadyl by performing blood work and checking the liver enzymes.• Check for warning signs such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, behavioral changes, constipation, and an increase in liver enzymes. It could be an indication of a toxic reaction.• Rimadyl is not recommended for animals with known bleeding disorders and should not be used if a dog has pre-existing liver disease, inflammatory bowel disease, or a known tendency towards gastrointestinal ulceration.• Rimadyl should never be given along with any other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) such as aspirin, or along with any corticosteroids such as prednisone, prednisolone, or dexamethasone. • Dog age should be considered because approximately 85% of possible adverse drug event reports received by Pfizer Animal Health have been in dogs 6 years of age or older. Alternatives to RimadylMany alternatives are available to the dog owners which are considered safer than Rimadyl. The majority of these products contain glucosamine and/or chondroitin as the primary ingredient.

Studies have proven glucosamine and chondroitin to be effective at alleviating the effects of arthritis, joint pain and inflammation in dogs. Other key ingredients which have shown effective are MSM, Ester-C and Hyaluronic Acid. Hyaluronic Acid is particularly effective in increasing synovial fluid which is very helpful for dogs with Canine Hip Dysplasia. These products use natural substances to achieve similar results without the side effects of Rimadyl. Some of the most popular choices are Free and Easy for Dogs, Cosequin, and Arthrix.

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You may have a dog problem at this moment and need results RIGHT AWAY. You can have total confidence that you will quickly master my proven techniques. Your dog will LOVE this training method... and you will too! If you would like to learn more about me and how these very special lessons were developed, you can read my interview here.

With each lesson, you’ll SEE and HEAR me explain exactly what to do. You may be wondering why I went to the extra expense of recording the training in a professional recording studio and having a professional take the photos. Because for you to gain the results you deserve, you need to HEAR exactly how to give the commands and SEE what the correct posture and hand signals are. Besides, who wants to wait for a DVD to arrive or download and print out a whole eBook? With online training, you sit back, get comfortable, relax, and watch as often as you want. Before you know it – You’ve GOT it! It’s like you spent hours reading and studying to learn the “best of the best.” Just like I did. But I’ve done the work for you. It just doesn’t get any easier, faster, or environmentally-friendly.

Dove's 7 Dog Training Lessons

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Cat Secrets Revealed.

11 Renegade Kittens Meet Their Match And Discover The Secrets Of Cats Who Behave

Texas Cat Trainer reveals powerful strategies that transformed antisocial “wild cats” into lovable housecats in less than 13 days. She can do the same for your little tiger, too. Imagine your cat…

• Faithfully using the litter box rather than your carpet

• Sharpening claws on the scratching post instead of your sofa
• Playing without aggressive biting and clawing
• Enjoying fun and happy times with their favorite human – you!

• Kitty is in the doghouse again because she ignored the litter box and did her business on the carpet instead.
  
  

• Your sofa looks like a tattered reject from the thrift store.
  
  
• Fun play times come to a screeching halt when your sweet ball of fur morphs into a biting psycho kitty.
  
  
• If cat poop were a good fertilizer for your houseplants, they would reach the ceiling by now.
  

Sound familiar?

Whether your cat is acting out because of stress, a medical condition, or simply doesn’t know what you expect…the result is enough to drive you up the wall.

And whether you spotted your cute little kitty through a pet store window, rescued her from a pound, or she showed up meowing at the door one day…this little “hell cat” isn’t exactly what you bargained for when you brought her home.

To make matters worse, there are so many different opinions from the “experts” on how to banish bad behavior, it’s hard to wade through the ocean of advice and figure out what works.

Friends and family…perhaps even your vet…don’t help matters much when they say…

“You can’t train cats – they aren’t as smart as dogs.”

“Just de-claw your cat and solve your scratching problem for good.”

Or how about this one…

“If your cat poops on the carpet, try rubbing his nose in it. That will teach him a lesson for sure.”

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It frustrates the heck out you.

You’re embarrassed to have your friends over because your house smells like cat pee, your rugs and curtains have rips and tears from kitty’s “romps through the jungle”, and your acrobatic feline is likely to vault onto the kitchen table and nibble on your dinner when you’re not looking.

And if you’re like I once was, right about now you may be wondering…

"Hey, whose house is this anyway?” Well, it’s time to stop pussy footing around. Now you can…

Regain Control And Let Kitty
Know The Rules Of The House

No matter how much you love to spoil and pamper your pet, the truth is your little tiger has to follow the rules of the house. True, cats are independent creatures but they need routines and schedules, too. And in order to avoid constant stress over kitty’s dirty deeds, you must establish what is acceptable and what is not.

In a way your cat can understand.

Because anyone that has spent more than five minutes around a cat knows they are ferociously determined. It’s exasperating at times.

The good news is…

You, Your Cat, The Kids, And Even Fido The Dog
Can Live Happily Together Under One Roof

You just have to know how cats think.

And you don’t need to take a course in Pet Psychology 101 to figure it out. Finally, there is a simpler way to understand their quirks and wacky habits. You know, those zany traits that make cats so wonderfully “cat like” on one hand…and totally devilish on the other.

The best part is once you crack the code on their “outta control” behavior, training them to do what you want becomes easier than you ever imagined.

And I certainly understand your frustrations because I’ve been there, too.

In a moment I’m going to tell you my story, but first, I have a confession to make.

I haven’t always been a cat lover. It’s true. As a matter of fact, I didn’t even like them that much. The cats in my neighborhood were constantly leaping onto my car and leaving dusty paw prints all over it – usually right after a trip through the car wash. If I felt anything at all for them, it was irritation.

So no one was more shocked than I when I suddenly found myself…

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A Modern Day Annie Oakley Wrangling
11 Feline Desperados To Safety!

Believe me, that is not how I imagined my day would end when I visited a friend’s farm.

While out for a walk in the barnyard one morning I spotted a colony of feral (wild) kittens abandoned in the old barn. They were tiny, flea bitten and half starved. Maybe it was their pitiful, hungry meows that melted my heart but out of the blue, my maternal instincts kicked into overdrive. Someone had to help them and call me crazy, but I decided that someone was me.

And so my rescue mission began. Have you ever tried herding cats – especially little “wild cats”? If so, you know it takes some doing. But after a round up that would have made Annie Oakley proud, I finally managed to wrangle the little gang of banditos into my car - knowing all along I didn’t have a clue as to how to care for them.

But that had to change. I remember thinking “With all the cute, loveable cats and kittens ready for adoption, what chance do these skinny, malnourished, outlaw kittens have?”

To give these little bandits the best chance at a happy home I had to train them first. So I hit the books with feverish intensity soaking up everything I could find about cat training. After countless hours pouring over encyclopedias of information, after frustrating trial and error, I finally discovered the secrets of cat behavior.

And then… In less than 13 days, those 11 renegade kittens were transformed into well-behaved housecats.

But I didn’t stop there.

To this day, I’ve read and studied more than 100 books and articles about cat behavior, cat health, and cat care…interviewed dozens of vets, animal shelter and adoption center volunteers…and listened to stories of happy cat owners.

For over four years now, almost everyone I know turns to me …the ‘cat wrangler’…for advice whenever their cats take a walk on the wild side. The truth is I get a kick out of helping other cat lovers build wonderful relationships with their cats by using my training methods.

So I decided to take all the tips, tricks, and advice I learned and “compress” it into a sanity saving resource for anyone battling bad cat behavior. The exciting results is…

A Quick and Easy, Step-By-Step Guide
That Reveals The Secrets To A Well-Behaved Cat

I have to admit, it’s a rewarding feeling. Because not only did the secrets I discover make it possible to train my misbehaving, anti-social feral cats … now as a result hundreds of cats are enjoying a happy, healthy life with loving families.

You'll Receive INSTANT Access To Cat Secrets Revealed Via Digital Download

It’s almost like having your own cat expert on call 24-7 to guide you step-by-step through your cat’s thinking process while offering proven solutions to behavior problems. And if you think about it, isn’t that what you really need to know? Because once you do you can…

Drastically Change Your Cat’s Misbehaving Ways

I purposely wrote this ebook with only the real “nitty gritty” in mind – no fluff, just essential strategies you need to change your cat’s misbehaving ways. And to make it easy for you, I compressed tons of research into a fast and fun resource. (Believe me, I understand how frustrating it to plow through encyclopedic volumes of information just to find the answer to one question.)

I’m certain the advice you find between the pages of the guide will reward you with a wonderful relationship with your cat. Remember my little gang of renegade kittens? Now they are lovable, well-behaved housecats that bring love and joy to their humans. Your little outlaw can be transformed, too.

If you agree that your cat’s behavior problems are stopping you from enjoying your cat to the utmost, then you must agree it’s time for a change.

And if your kitty could talk to you right now she would beg you to read this guide!

Show your cat how much you love her by discovering the best path for her happiness…and your sanity.

But wait, I almost forgot. You’re probably wondering…

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“What will it cost to change my cat’s misbehaving ways?”

When I told a few trusted insiders what I was going to charge for this all-in-one guide jam-packed with solutions, tips, and advice for even the most behaviorally challenged cat, they were frankly shocked.

That’s because they know the strategies found in “Cat Behavior Secrets Revealed” have been directly responsible for creating a happy, loving, stress-free environment for cats and their owners.

What’s really insane is you’ve probably spent many times the price of this guide already on trips to the vet and visits to Pet Smart, searching for answers.

Where did that get you?

Nothing could please me more than to guide you step by step as you see your little renegade kitten become the adoring house cat you know is lurking somewhere deep inside. The action plan is all mapped out for you; all you have to do is follow in the footsteps of someone who has proven the way. Here’s an open door – an opportunity to change your cat’s naughty behavior once and for all.

So here’s the deal. You get “Cat Behavior Secrets Revealed” plus “Cat Grooming And Health Secrets Revealed” for the low price of $37.00.Over the course of a month, that adds up to about $1.27 a day. You probably fritter away that much money before lunch on silly things that don’t do a thing to turn your cat around.

Make the decision now to “do this” for you and your feline friend.

It’s an essential step if you’re finally ready to stop the behavior that’s making you crazy right now.

It’s a powerful solution that will put you on a proven path for success with your cat. It will arm you with strategies to resolve your challenges more quickly and effectively than you ever thought possible.

As a matter of fact...

You Can Take The First Step Right Now

Here's how:

Can you answer “YES” to any of these questions?

• I feel embarrassed when friends and family visit because my house smells like cat pee or my furiture/rugs/curtains have rips and tears.
• I'm feeling increasingly frustrated and angry about my cat's behavior.
• I'm afraid I'll never be able to train my cat to behave the way I want.
• I'd like to know how to train my cat so we can finally enjoy a fun, loving relationship.
• I'm worried that if things don't change, I may be forced to find another home for my pet...or the absolute worse... euthanasia may be my last option.

If you answered yes to even one of these questions, you'll find the help you're looking for in “Cat Behavior Secrets Revealed”.

Click Here! to get Instance Access

In Less Than 5 Minutes You Can
Start “Taming The Beast” In Your Cat

You know there is nothing I’d like better than to reveal these powerful secrets to every cat owner who has ever experienced the frustrations of wild and crazy cat behavior.

I’ve invested countless hours of research and pulled from my own experience as a ‘cat wrangler’ to write “Cat Behavior Secrets Revealed”.

The truth is it’s been a labor of love. I find a lot of joy in helping cat lovers like you live happily ever after with their favorite felines.

But there is another thing. The thought of even one more helpless kitten spending their remaining days in a pound or rescue shelter because they were not properly trained breaks my heart. That’s why I’m committed to making this resource available to cat lovers everywhere.

By now it should be crystal clear that this is the solution to all the aggravations you’ve been experiencing with your cat. But if there is any remaining doubt, let me reassure you…

• The training methods are proven to work. Hundreds of perfectly behaved cats and their happy owners would agree. And some information out there is not only incorrect and useless, but also downright dangerous to your cat.

• “Cat Behavior Secrets Revealed” is quick, fun and easy to read. I tell you the exact reason why your cat is acting in a certain way and guide you step-by-step through the solution. No fluff, no filler, no fooling around.

• Because this resource is available as a digital download, you get it FAST. You can start correcting unwanted behavior in a matter of minutes instead of simply hoping things will get better soon.

With a few simple keystrokes, you’ll have “Cat Behavior Secrets Revealed” in your hands as an instant download for a one-time investment of only $37.00.

Once you download the program, you can save it on your computer or print it out and stick it in a handy notebook for quick reference. The bottom line is you get it fast and it’s always available whenever you need it.

If you’re serious about changing things for the better, I’m sure you’ll agree this is the deal of a lifetime.

As a matter of fact…

You Could Easily Pay 10 Times
More On Other Programs

Here’s what I mean.

If you tried to find other resources similar to this one you would easily pay $127.00. But because I’m so committed to your success and your cat’s well being, you won’t pay anywhere near that. This golden resource is yours for a mere fraction of that cost.

When you consider the price of hiring a feline behavior expert for a consultation is a minimum of $125/hour the deal looks even sweeter. You may not believe this but some experts charge $380/hour just for phone consultations. And that’s for one cat with one behavior problem.

That’s about 10 times the price of Cat Secrets Revealed!

Imagine how that price would skyrocket if you had multi cats or several behavior issues. Yikes!

If you’re relying on a $40 visit to the vet to solve your problem, forget about it. The sad truth is most vets don’t know squat about feline behavior.

And I have to wonder…

How Much Are You Paying Now
For Your Cat’s Bad Behavior?

No matter how you slice it, your cat’s behavior is costing you. It’s just a matter of how much.

Consider this:

Replacing furniture because of scratching or “accidents” will cost you at least a few thousand dollars.

Replacing carpeting that has been saturated with cat pee will cost a few hundreds of dollars minimum.

And what about appliances? The first week I had those wild banditos in my house, one of them chewed up the cord to my $350 CD stereo. Luckily, the kitten wasn’t hurt but I couldn’t replace the cord so I had to buy a whole new system.

Perhaps similar things have happened to you. Why continue to throw good money after bad? The key to unlocking the secret of cat behavior is right at your fingertips. There is not one good reason to put this off another minute.

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