Pet Advice - Pet News

Avoiding Fruits That Are Dangerous to Your Pet
by CS Swarens

Although fruit is good for humans, there are fruits you should avoid feeding to your pet. While you may think that feeding fruit to your pet is a healthy choice, it can actually do more harm to your pet than good. Here are a few of the fruits you should avoid feeding your beloved pet.
Apples, Cherries, Plums, Peaches and Apricots

Apples, cherries, plums, peaches and apricots are all great additions to a balanced human diet, but each of these types of fruit can be quite dangerous to your pet. In fact, if your pet eats a large amount of any of these fruit, it can be toxic to its body. It is not just the fruit that is toxic, however, as the seeds, stems and leaves are also dangerous to your furry friend. This is because all of these parts of the fruit and its plant contain a type of cyanide. If your pet ingests any of these fruit, you should contact your veterinarian right away. Signs of poisoning from these fruits include:

• Apprehension • Breathing Difficulty • Dilated Pupils • Hyperventilation • Shock

Avocados

Avocados can be used to make a tasty dip that humans enjoy, but resist the temptation to share this treat with your pet. Not only is the fruit potentially fatal to your pet, so is the bark, leaves and seeds. If your pet has ingested avocados, signs to look for include:

• Breathing Difficulty • Enlarged Abdomen • Fluid Accumulation in the Chest • Fluid Accumulation in the Abdomen • Fluid Accumulation in a Sac Around the Heart

No one is certain how much of the fruit and / or its plant parts needs to be ingested before these signs develop. Therefore, it is important to avoid feeding any part of the avocado plant to your pet.

Grapes and Raisins

Eating grapes and raisins can be fatal to dogs. In fact, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center has reported 10 confirmed canine deaths resulting from eating grapes or raisins. The amount of grapes or raisins consumed ranged from just 9 ounces to 2 pounds. In addition, many dogs eating grapes or raisins have suffered from kidney failure, which requires aggressive treatment to save the animal's life. Experts are uncertain as to why raisins and grapes have this effect on dogs and are uncertain of how much it takes to have harmful effects. Therefore, if your dog eats any amount of raisins, you should contact your veterinarian right away so treatment may begin as soon as possible.

When feeding your pet foods other than dog food, be extremely careful about the foods you choose to feed. While most foods may seem perfectly harmless - or possibly even healthy for your pet - it is possible that you could make your pet quite ill without realizing it.

About the Author
CS Swarens is the president of Find a Pet Online. 800 998-7065

For additional information on dogs, cats, birds, horses, and exotic pets visit the internet's pet resource including pet classifieds at http://www.findapetonline.com

Research over 430 pet breeds at http://www.findapetonline.com/breeds.html

Choose Pet Portraits or Dog Portraits as Gifts
by Jana L. Ames

When most people think of dog portraits, what comes to mind is usually basic information that's not particularly interesting or beneficial. There's a lot more to dog portraits than just the basics.

Most of this information comes straight from the dog portrait pros. Careful reading to the end virtually guarantees that you'll know what they know.

If you know someone who loves their pets, the best dog lover gift you can ever give them is a pet portrait. Here are a few reasons why.

Lasts a Lifetime

A dog portrait is something that your friend or family member can hold onto forever. Most gifts just end up in the closet or on the yard sale table, but this is something that can be displayed and cherished forever, regardless of where he or she lives.

Plus, the sad reality is that no matter how much we love our animals, they will eventually leave us. Photographs may be nice to have, but being able to display a beautiful pet portrait of their best friend truly is the best dog gift you could ever give someone.

Elegant and Fun

Even for people who normally are very fastidious about their home decor, you won't have to worry about giving them a gift like this. You can select different types of frames, you can actually help create a finished product that will match the elegance or the playfulness of their existing home.

Few people will be able to complain when they see their beloved dog or cat captured in oil on a canvas, so they can display it proudly for everyone who visits to see.

A Great Choice for Someone who has Everything

You certainly won't find anything like this dog portrait at your local mall. This dog lover gift is going to be unique. You won't have to keep the receipt or worry that it won't fit right. Anyone who loves their pet is going to love having him or her captured in all of their most adorable moments as if they were truly works of art.

This article's coverage of the information is as complete as it can be today. You should always leave open the possibility that future research could uncover new facts.

About the Author
http://www.anythingpaintedoncanvas.com


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To Run, Or Not To Run: That Is The Question
By Horst Hoefinger - Dogster.com

If you’ve ever thought of combining your love of dogs and running there’s a few things to keep in mind before hitting the road.

My Dog’s Ears Have Dandruff-like Flakes
By Ann Lockley

QUESTION:

Here’s one for you-I’ve already been to the vet and alternative vet and my “Meadow” still has her problem. The insides of her ears flake like large pieces of dandruff. I do not use harsh ear cleaning lotion and her shampoo is very gentle. She seems healthy in all other regards. She does NOT have ear infections. Her alternative care vet loaded her up on enzymes and probiotics and her coat looks glorious now, but she still has the ear flakes, like a bad sunburn. She is a toy Havanese and has had this problem ever since she had a c-section and a puppy 2 years ago. She did not have it before then.

ANSWER:

What an odd problem. Have you had her tested for allergies? Have you tried hypoallergenic food? Has your vet done any skin scrapings to see if there are any little crawling friends hanging around? If its not allergies or bugs, talk to your vet about any immuno-suppressive issues she may have as they can cause odd skin problems like you mentioned. Treating her symptoms should give her relief until the cause is discovered. Try rubbing them with aloe, vitamin E cream or even a bit of mineral oil to keep the dryness to a minimum.

How to Prevent Garbage Can Diving
By Ann Lockley

QUESTION:

I have a 10 yr. old Jack Russell that likes to get in the bathroom trash cans. It all started with my daughters pads that she would go for when disposed of. She will usually chew on the wasted toilet tissue, and leave a mess. What can I do to discourage this behavior.
Karen

ANSWER:

Hi Karen,

The easiest answer may be just to make it impossible for your Jack to misbehave. Buy garbage cans with secure lids. I have assisted in too many surgeries removing bits of ‘feminine protection’, floss, toothbrushes and even a disposable razor from dog bellies to ever leave a bathroom garbage can without some sort of secure lid.

However, I do have to share with you one ‘what not to do’ story with you. I bought a garbage can at Ikea a couple of years ago that had the retro swinging V-shaped opening often seen in public buildings. You push the garbage in through one side and the opposite side of the V tips up and away from the can and vice versa - know the ones I am talking about? Well, when my dog went to stick her head in, she got stuck. Then to add to her misery, the top then came off the bucket and she proceeded to run around the house with the lid wedged onto her head. Needless to say, I don’t advocate this kind of training method one bit but I do have to admit it worked better then anything I could have come up with. Not only was the garbage can ‘evil’ in her eyes, but the whole room became one to be wary of and she would only enter it if I was in there to protect her.

Save yourself a headache and a big surgery bill - garbage can with lid and have your daughter empty it frequently during that time of the month so that there is no added incentive for your Jack to tackle the can.

Take care and thank you for letting me reminisce about my poor nervous little pit bull losing the battle with the garbage can.

Are Mushrooms Dangerous for Dogs?
By Ann Lockley

Question:
Do mushrooms kill dogs?

ANSWER:

There is such a thing as mushroom toxicity and yes, some species of mushrooms are even lethal same as for humans. Symptoms are similar to most types of poisonings – vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, restlessness and inability to get comfortable, lethargy. More severe symptoms can include either change in heart rate and blood pressure, a change in respiration and an overall depression. The toxic mushrooms cause liver damage with the severity depending on the amount ingested.

If your dog swallows any type of mushrooms other then what you bought at the grocery store, it is best to induce vomiting as soon as possible just to be on the safe side. If the vet is not open or if you are too far from a vet clinic, hydrogen peroxide taken orally induces vomiting. Give your dog an ounce or so at a time until they vomit.

Thankfully, most dogs will not eat mushrooms but if yours is one of the odd ones that enjoys a fungus once in a while, keep a sharp eye on him when you are out for a walk and dissuade him from snacking by throwing a ball or calling him to you for a treat. Bribery is better then vomiting.

Click here to visit Ann Lockley's 'Good Dog Blog' at Dogster.com and ask her your pet question.


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Your Useful Guide When Choosing Horse Tack Supplies
by Mike Selvon

Taking care of a horse is not as easy as one may think. Your horse's health, shelter, food and horse tack supplies are all very important things to consider, with regard to the care of these giant animals. Tack supplies include bridles, crops, brushes, horse shoes, saddles, and a whole lot more, and because there are so many types and brands of tack supplies available today, choosing the right ones can get confusing. Here is a guide on how to choose the right supplies for your pet.
Bridles are one of the most essential horse tack items that you, as a rider, should have. These are used to communicate with your pet. Normally, the most common is the dressage bridle that can fit over the head of the horse and onto his mouth. The reins go back to the rider who uses them to command and control the animal. Horse bridles vary in quality and price, and by standard these bridles should be made of high-quality leather.

Avoid buying poor quality leather as they will crack easily and wear over time, which is not ideal, especially during harsh weather. Check the reins and the cheek-pieces and make sure they are reinforced. The buckles should also be made from stainless steel to avoid rusting. When buying horse bridles, the best advice is to visit a reputable manufacturer that will provide you with some sort of warranty on the product, so you can return them should they not function effectively.

It is generally accepted that horse tack supplies are quite expensive, and saddles are no exception. There are three types of saddles, namely the Western saddles, the English saddles and the side-saddles. When you are looking at these tack supplies, make sure to choose one that is made of pure leather, regardless of what type the saddle is.

Suede and synthetic leather are also good options because they are very lightweight and easy to maintain. When you shop for a saddle, it may be best to have a professional pet-care expert with you to help you with your investment.

Another essential in the genre of horse tack supplies are its boots, which will protect the legs of your pet. In choosing the right horse boots, make sure to go for those that are sturdy, well-constructed and comfortable. When chosen properly, these boots can last up to several years.

If you own such an animal, and horsemanship is important to you, then it is paramount to provide them with their basic needs. The right horse saddles, boots, or bridles are but some of the most important things you need for your horse.

About the Author
A free gift awaits you at our portal site, where you can enrich your knowledge further about horse tack supplies. Your comment is much appreciated at our horse tack and equipment blog.

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Cat Training Tips From the Experts
By Paul Kramer

Involving children in playtime with the family pet will help to create a strong bond between them and teaches them to see the cat as a friend. Show your child games that she can play with the cat, such as swatting a ping pong ball back and forth or chasing a piece of string.

Allow her to learn by example by letting her see you play with the cat. Always supervise young children when they are playing with pets to make sure that they do not accidentally play too roughly or hurt them.

So, what are a few of the training tips?

Here are a few cat training tips to make training successful:

- Keep training session's fun. Never scold or hit your cat.

- Use your cat's name often when praising him.

- Practice twice a day for five to ten minutes at the same time every day.

- Practice in a quiet place that is free from distractions.

- Let your cat learn one trick completely before building on it or teaching something new.

- Click the clicker immediately after your cat does what you want him to do.

- Practice training when your cat is alert and hungry.

- Always end training sessions on a positive note and with a treat.

Having a well adjusted and happy cat can make all the difference when sharing your life and home with him. Spending daily quality time with him is important, and understanding his thoughts, moods, and behaviors is a great way to establish a loving bond between you.

Animal behaviorists believe that the more time you spend interacting with your feline friend, the closer your relationship will be and the more communication you will establish. This will increase trust between you and your cat will become more affectionate toward you.

To learn more about the different types of Pet Training Tips for your dogs, cats, horse, etc., and how to get discount and cheap pet medications, make sure to visit http://www.callpetmeds.com where you will find everything on getting quality yet affordable pet medications as well as tips on how to take care of your pets like the experts.

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



Treats That Can Kill Pets
by CS Swarens

There are many tasty treats that humans enjoy on a regular basis, despite the fact that some of them are not particularly good for them. While you may be aware of the adverse affects that these foods have on humans, you may not realize just how devastating they can be to your pets. In fact, in many cases, foods that are simply unhealthy for humans can be downright dangerous to pets. Here is a look at just a few of them.
Alcohol

Alcohol is potentially lethal to humans, and the same is true when it comes to pets. Since pets are smaller than humans, they are more easily affected by alcohol. As such, even consuming small amounts of alcohol can be quite dangerous to pets. So, you should never purposely provide your pet with alcoholic beverages and you should take certain steps to make certain your pet cannot get into your alcohol. Some signs of alcohol ingestion in pets include:

• Loss of equilibrium • Changes in behavior • Depression • Excitement • Increased amounts of urination • Decreased respiratory rate • Cardiac arrest • Death

Chocolate and Coffee

Chocolate may be a tasty treat that you enjoy, but it can be very dangerous to your pet. Just as with humans, the high fat content can be harmful to your pet. But, the dangers of chocolate stretch beyond being fattening, the caffeine and theobromine found in chocolate are particularly dangerous to dogs when consumed in high amounts, as they are both nervous system stimulants. The amount of caffeine and theobromine in chocolate can vary quite a bit depending upon the time of chocolate. White chocolate generally has the lowest concentration of these stimulants, while cacao beans and baking chocolate tend to have the most.

Symptoms that your pet has consumed chocolate include:

• Vomiting • Diarrhea • Restlessness • Hyperactivity • Muscle twitching • Increased urination • Excessive panting • Increased heart rate • Increased blood pressure • Seizure

Since coffee also contains a high amount of caffeine, it can also be very dangerous to your pet and result in the same symptoms as those associated with consuming chocolate. So, be certain to keep your coffee grounds and beans away from your pet.

Artificial Sweetener

The artificial sweetener xylitol may help humans enjoy tasty treats without the potential negative side effects associated with eating sugar, but it can be quite dangerous for your pet to consume. Xylitol is found in many sugar-free products, including candy and gum. If a dog eats a significant amount of these products, it can experience a number of different reactions that can be quite severe. These include:

• Drop in blood sugar • Weakness • Lethargy • Loss of coordination • Collapse • Seizure

These symptoms can appear just 30 minutes after ingestion and may last for several hours.

If your pet has consumed any of these products or is showing any of these signs of ingestion, it is important to contact your veterinarian right away. The sooner your vet examines your pet, the better your pet's chances of recovery will be.

About the Author
CS Swarens is the president of Find a Pet Online. 800 998-7065

For additional information on dogs, cats, birds, horses, and exotic pets visit the internet's pet resource including pet classifieds at http://www.findapetonline.com

Research over 430 pet breeds at http://www.findapetonline.com/breeds.html

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