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by News Hound - MyDogSpace.com
Meet jet-setting show dog Curry, Paw Nation advice columnist. In between competing at the top dog shows, Curry finds time to answer the questions all dogs long to ask. From grooming advice (Curry just won Best in Breed at Westminster, so she knows a thing or two about looking gorgeous) to tips on getting along with the craziest of canines (she lives in Manhattan so she has to make friends with the many other dogs on the block), this 3-year-old Glen of Imaal terrier has all the answers to your crucial canine queries.
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Did you hear about the new dog collar that cost $52,000? I know that as a glamorous show dog you have appearances to keep up, but would you ever wear a diamond collar? What do you think about other pricey pet accessories like booties and coats?
--Katie, a 6-year-old Irish terrier
Katie, what a great question! I can see you are right up to date on all the important breaking news.
The handcrafted $52,000 collar with 18 carat diamonds made me laugh. (And you know that dogs do laugh thanks to my insightful previous column)
I don't want to sound harsh, but only a human would be stupid enough to waste all that money on diamonds, a completely useless mineral, when they could be buying bacon. We love them dearly but they will never learn that wasting money on expensive collars and embarrassing coats is really all about them rather than us.
Have you ever seen a poor four-legged brother or sister hopping down the street wearing one of those ridiculous doggie raincoats? I'm sure the human has the best intentions, not realizing that both dogs and our embarrassing distant cousin, the wolf, have their own built in raincoats. It's called fur.
Also, for me, a heavy collar makes me worry that I'm in trouble. Pressure on my neck and back reminds me of when I was a very free-spirited pup and my mom would have her mouth on the back of my neck to reprimand me. I'm happy to have a nice lightweight but lovely collar to wear every day, but that's about it.
Humans, keep your diamonds and coats. We dogs are perfect just the way we are. After all, you wouldn't put a bumper sticker on a Bentley!
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Ask Curry your questions by e-mailing her at curry@pawnation.com.
PRWeb.com
There are a few things pet owners can do for their dog or cat to prepare for the hot temperatures. Perhaps most important, is to de-shed dogs that have under-coats. This helps significantly in keeping them cool and minimizing the shedding in the house.
Summer time is here, and Pet Resorts of America owner, Kurt Laemmel wants to remind Nashville pet owners that after a long, cold winter their dog or cat may be feeling a little stir-crazy. So, as the new season approaches, he has a few suggestions to get their four-legged family members ready for another summer.
"For dog-owners, the first thing I recommend is giving your dog's coat a good de-shed treatment. This is particularly important for breeds with an "under-coat" or "winter-coat" such as Labs or German Shepherds. The heat of the summer can become a health factor," says Kurt Laemmel, owner of Pet Resorts of America. "Taking out the under-coat keeps your dog cooler during the summer, makes it more difficult for pests such as ticks to hide and minimizes shedding in the house."
Of course, any dog that boards at Nashville's Pet Resorts of America has another option to keep it cool during the hot summer, an in-ground swimming pool. "Our customers' dogs absolutely love the pool. When we let them out for one of their scheduled play-times, they tend to gather and play around the pool like a bunch of children. It's great exercise, keeps them cool and gives them plenty time to socialize," says Laemmel.
Summer also means that ticks and fleas are going to be out. Laemmel says, "There are many good products on the market to help dogs and cats repel such pests. However, we also recommend frequent dog grooming and bathing during the summer months to help keep their coats clean and their skin free of pests." Though Pet Resorts of America will bathe dogs when boarded, customers also have the option of scheduling an appointment and dropping them off just for a bath and grooming session. "Annette is our Certified Master Groomer. She has over eighteen years experience grooming and styling. She loves working with the variety of pets that come to our facility," says Laemmel. "Whether it's a cat needing grooming, a show-dog that needs styling or a rescue requiring special attention, Annette shares the special approach our entire staff takes to caring for your pet."
Other hot weather tips include providing an extra large water bowl or bucket for outside dogs, and changing the water daily. Also, make sure pets have a shady place to lie down. "If it's too hot outside for you, bring your pet in too," says Laemmel. If there is a heat wave, make sure pets are inside or take them to Pet Resorts of America, for air conditioned runs.
Another feature that customers from Franklin, Brentwood and Bellevue appreciate is Pet Resorts of America's indoor/outdoor dog runs. "We have the longest indoor/outdoor dog runs in Nashville," Laemmel states. "When dog boarding with us, they are free to leave their indoor room at any time and enjoy some time in their personal outdoor patio, all within their 16' run. Even though we walk each dog twice a day, we find that ready access to their own "patio" keeps them much happier."
Laemmel also stresses that pet owners take time this summer to do something special with their pets. "We all get in relationship ruts, and we do the same with our pets. So I always suggest, no matter your dog's age, that you join a class or do some kind of dog training. This greatly stimulates your dog and gives them a dedicated time to have the undivided attention of their owner." Pet Resorts of America offers varying degrees of training, from basic skills to advanced discipline. Laemmel reminds, "Whether your dog has certain behavior issues to be addressed, or is just seeking new skills that you can both enjoy, our certified trainers will meet the challenge."
When asked to summarize Pet Resorts of America's approach to cat and dog care, Laemmel says, "We don't believe in the ‘kennel' word. With our indoor/outdoor runs, two daily walks, a pool, scheduled play-times and interaction with staff, we are more like an all-inclusive resort for your pet. We even have special events as well. In fact, we just had an egg hunt, on Easter morning, where the dogs were let into our play area to sniff for eggs filled with doggy treats."
To learn more visit Pet Resorts of America's Web site at: www.petresortsofamerica.com or read their client testimonials and reviews.
Businessvn.net
So you are getting ready to go on that long-awaited and much-deserved vacation. If you are a proud pet owner, you have taken your pet into consideration while you planned your vacation. Or have you? Below are a few pet travel tips you may want to consider.
* Should you take your pet with you when you go off on vacation? Consider how old your pet is. He or she may be too old to travel. If you are going on a long journey or flying, your pet may not be able to handle the stress brought on by traveling long distances and long hours. It may be better to leave your pet with a friend or arrange for a professional pet care taker to take care of your pet while you are on vacation.
* If you decide to take your pet along, ensure that your pet’s health is good and that he can travel. A week or two before you go on vacation, take your pet to his veterinarian for a thorough check up. You want to make sure that your pet is in the best of health when you travel.
* When traveling by car, make sure that your pet has a collar on at all times. The collar must have your pet’s name, your name, your address and phone numbers. Keep in mind that when you travel with your pet in a car, your pet can easily run off while your back is turned. If your pet is wearing a collar with all the right information, whoever finds him can easily contact you for your pet’s safe return. If possible, have a microchip embedded in your pet as this is one of the best ways to have a link to your pet if he ever gets lost.
* Ensure that your pet’s carrier or crate is big enough for your pet. Keep in mind that your pet dog may have a hard time traveling in the car in a crate, and if your pet is a cat, your cat must be in a cage while you travel by car. If you are traveling by plane, you will be required to place your pet in a crate. Make sure to get a crate that is airline approved and is of the highest quality.
* Before leaving with your pet, groom him. Make sure your pet’s claws are clipped and his fur trimmed. Pamper your pet before you embark on your vacation. Your pet will be much happier traveling if he has been groomed and is clean.
* Bring plenty of water and dried food for your pet while you are both on the road. Bring one of those traveling containers that you can use to store food and keep them cold.
Follow the simple pet travel tips mentioned above and you are guaranteed to have the most wonderful vacation with your pet.
by sarah - diyfrugal.com
Millions of pets in the United States are euthanized because there are no homes for them. According to The Spayed Club website, more than 35,000 dogs, puppies, cats and kittens in the seven shelters around Greater Philadelphia are put to death each year.
In a difficult economy, many pets are abandoned to reduce homeowners costs; but, just like anything else in the house, with a little planning and research, pet care can be less burdensome on the budget.
When you first decide to add a pet to your home, there are several options to consider. Adoptapet.com keeps a list of local humane societies, SPCA’s and pet rescue organizations. They also give valuable advice on things to think about when you are adopting.
With rescue missions available in almost every breed, checking with the one of your choice is definitely worth pursuing before looking at new puppies. The advantage of an older dog is perhaps maturity out of the young puppy chewing phase, completed vaccinations and spayed/neutering, and hopefully prior training on pet deposits. A new home usually requires some new training for dogs or cats but with proper instruction, attention, and affection, most pets should blend into the family quickly.
On the other hand, when adding a puppy or kitten to your clan, there are some start-up costs that need to be considered: initial vet bills, ongoing healthcare, food, and physical structures from crates to fences, if desired. Most pet stores offer books and instruction for new pet owners. Every pet owner should be aware of what symptoms indicate a bigger problem in their pet and what foods are allowed, whether intentionally or by accident. My family has a beagle and as she grew taller, she managed to get a lot of “accident” foods off the counter and I have learned to move things away from the edge. I learned not to underestimate the replacement value of chewed shoes, child toys and precious belongings, like anything made of real leather. We initially installed baby gates and restricted our dog to the kitchen until she grew out of treating the furniture like a chew toy.
Several steps need to be taken in infancy to encourage a long and healthy pet life. The Spayed Club offers low-cost spay/neuter certificates to qualified pet owners to reduce pet costs and discourage pet overpopulation that can lead to more abandonment with unwanted pet litters. Also, pet stores and vets usually have some information on types of pet insurance that, for a small fee, can eliminate costly bills later in life.
Friends and family can be tapped for advice on the best crate, bed, and toys but pets usually need an annual visit to the vet to update shots and treatments for worms, fleas and any other issues that arise. Once you know your pet needs, check reputable online sources for medicines. Discount prescription cards can be found for pets and humans alike.
Other ongoing costs to factor in are vacation time and grooming. When we couldn’t take our dog with us, we exchanged services with neighbors also needing dog care throughout the year. For a short trip, we have paid a neighbor boy to check in on the dog or taken her to family who live close. For grooming, I bought a nail clipper but I am always cautious since nipping a dog’s skin can cause uncontrollable bleeding, only rectified by a special medicine. Make sure you know what you are doing if you decide to do-it-yourself to save money in this area.
As always, pet coupons are just waiting for you to clip and save. Plan ahead and start saving today.
Click on banner to visit The Pet Warehouse
by Kristina Daguia, Factoidz.com
Thousands of dog owners spend money on their lovable pets and treat them as members of the family. Others also associate their own needs to what they want to provide for their pets. Dogs are "man’s best friend," and are now receiving similar products and services as their human counterparts. These products and services for dogs include grooming parlors, acupuncture for dogs, herbal remedies and even a GPS collar to track them down when lost. No wonder why smart and innovative business minded people keep investing into dog related industry.Here are some of the top dog related business opportunities that are ranked high in the market today. You can venture into different categories such as food products, retail, training or a service oriented business.
Dog Food Retailer
The mushrooming of the dog food industry continues to explode for the obvious reason that the nutrition of pets is the primary concern of dog lovers. Showering them with nutritional treats pleases the owner. After developing your product line and processing all the legal documents, opening a dog food shop or dog bakery is the next step for your endeavor. Choices of foods should contain minerals and vitamins to sustain your dog’s healthy body. The revolution of making dog supplies is depends upon the breed, activity level, size, and age. Owners of this type of business must be knowledgeable enough to know the nutritional requirements as dog food competition grows.
Dog Grooming Business
If you would like to test the waters of a dog grooming shop, you have to attend some seminars and workshops to gain the essential skills needed. The job is not limited to washing dogs but involves new stylish ways to keep up with the trends. If you opt to choose learning by yourself, seek out online learning websites that will help you gain pet grooming knowledge.
Dog Breeding Business
Not everyone is able to begin or start up dog breeding business. Patience, proficiency, knowledge, and commitment are essential in keeping the business operation. Join a local dog breeder’s club to keep up with trends and new information on this kind of industry. Quality supplies in training dogs must be prioritized. There is some dog breeding software that offers tips on proper handling and training techniques to employ.
Dog Photography Business
Maybe dog photography hasn’t crossed your mind because most people already own digital cameras and can take pictures of their dogs anytime they want. Yes, you are right! You can’t just distribute flyers and convince people to let you take a picture of their dog, especially if they can do it for free. The trick in this business is that you should come up with your own ideas to be unique and interesting for customers. Provide a photo studio with many choices of backgrounds and several light effects. Invest in different dog costumes they can wear for picture taking or purchase some matching suits for both the dog and the owner. Make sure you purchase a good photo editing software for your digital photo enhancement needs.
Simply loving the company of dogs is not enough to have a successful dog photography studio, but it is already a great criteria that you could become profitable in dog photography art. It is also important to have a market research plan to make sure that there are many people with pets who are likely to partake in your service. If not, find a better location where you can expect have many walk-in customers.
Dog Walking Business
The easiest and cheapest money you have to shell out from your pocket is dog walking service. Marketing and advertising skills should be well-thought-of. You can start by giving out flyers or contacting some of the dog owners or an organization within your local shelter who can give you lists of potential customers. This will also require expertise in handling different types of dogs for each has its own characteristics you have to deal with proper care. Their safety will all depend on you.
Dog-related business has expanded and turning passion into something profitable and exceptionally rewarding. The process may take long to put up this venture but as long as you have the passion on your craft, the return on investment will solely depend how original and up-to-date the owner to push through on a pet lover business.
FetchPetCare.wordpress.com
If you plan to take a vacation this summer, you may be interested in easy cat travel tips that will help you address your cat’s health and well-being while you’re on the road and out of the picture. Many people make the mistake of thinking that because cats are so seemingly self-sufficient, you don’t need to do much more than leave a large bowl of food and water out for them and they’ll be fine. But you know that cats require a bit more care than that, particularly in your absence.
For instance; one of the top concerns for South Florida pet owners is our hot, tropical climate. What if the air conditioning died while you were gone? A cat should never be left inside of a hot house without A/C or access to fresh, cool air.
Vivian Fanjul and Michelle Monnar, owners of Fetch! Pet Care in Miami Beach have graciously offered a list of tips on how to keep your cats (or dogs) happy, healthy and safe while you’re traveling:
Home Alone: It is never OK to leave your cat home alone while you are on vacation without someone to care for them. Making sure the house is cool and leaving extra food and water out is not the only answer. There are a countless number of things that can go wrong under this scenario – all of which will make for a very stress-filled vacation.
Find a Reliable Sitter: While friends and family members can certainly be trustworthy, cat sitting isn’t their profession and chances are they won’t put as much effort into the care that you’d like. You should look for someone who considers this as a business opportunity and not someone who would consider it as a favor. Look for a professional sitter who can provide references and works for a company that is fully bonded and insured.
Meet and Greet: Before you leave on vacation, have the sitter over so you can introduce them to your cats and see how everyone interacts. The visit also gives you a chance to familiarize the sitter with your house.
Establish a Procedure: It is important to familiarize the sitter with your cats’ daily routine. Make sure the sitter is available to feed them at their normal times. This will help make sure your pets don’t experience too much separation anxiety.
Take them along: Today there are a host of options for “cat friendly” airlines and hotels that make it easy to bring your pet along. Even though you have your pet with you, that doesn’t mean you’ll have ample free time to care for them. If you find pet-friendly accommodations, look into a professional pet sitting service that will come to your hotel while you’re away – this option ensures that your four legged friend not feel left out of all the fun.
I’ve always been fortunate enough to have a nearby friend or family member who is also a devoted cat lover, so I’ve never been hesitant to leave my kitties in the hands of a non-professional cat sitter. Of course, if you don’t have that luxury, or none of your friends are cat people, a professional sitter is a great option.
For those who simply aren’t comfortable having someone visit their home while they are away, talk to your trusted veterinarian about whether their office offers boarding services or if they have someone that they could recommend. For instance, my cat’s vet, Central Broward Animal Hospital, offers pet boarding service in the Ft. Lauderdale area.
Always exercise due diligence when choosing a boarding facility to ensure your cat will be comfortable and well-cared for; not stuck in some hot room in a tiny cage, surrounded by barking dogs.
Fetch Pet Care is the leading dog walking franchise in the US. If your looking to own your own pet sitting franchise or pet business, please contact us at www.FetchPetCare.com
Resource: Fetch! Pet Care, 13028 Southwest 120 St., Miami, FL 33186
Dr. Heather Oxford - Los Angles Times
Jasmine's question: Hi Dr. Oxford, is it safe to feed dogs fruits and nuts?
Heather Oxford, DVM: Great question, especially with us going into fruit season. Fruits and nuts that are toxic include grapes, raisins and macademia nuts. Feeding large amounts of rinds of citrus fruits can also cause toxicity due to increased ingestion of essential oils. All other fruits and nuts are not known to be toxic to dogs, but must be fed in moderation or else gastrointestinal issues could occur.
Ask a Vet: How Can I Help an Allergic Roommate Live Comfortably with My Cat?
Meiling's question: My very fluffy calico cat and I are moving in with a friend who is mildly allergic to animal dander. She's suggested that I shave Pineapple, but I think that's just a temporary solution. Is there any way I can reduce the amount of dander from Pineapple?
Heather Oxford, DVM: Interestingly, the main allergen from cats is in highest quantity in their saliva and their anal glands. Therefore, shaving Pineapple will do little to decrease your friend's symptoms.
There have been several products advertised for use on cats to decrease human allergies but none have proved effective in various studies.
My advice would be to bathe Pineapple regularly and apply a flea preventative product monthly to limit how much she grooms herself. While I wouldn't recommend surgical removal of the anal glands, you should change the litter box at least once daily to prevent allergens from the anal secretions from getting emitted into the air.
Ask a Vet: How Can I Stop My Dog's Excessive Licking?
Tiffany's question: My dog has recently begun licking excessively. We thought it was because of allergy season [during] which he would lick his paws a lot. However, we're beginning to think that's not the case because he ends up licking the couch or the bed for five minutes! Is there something we can do to stop his excessive licking?
Heather Oxford, DVM: This is probably one of the most frequently asked questions for veterinarians. Interestingly, the majority of pets that lick excessively have some form of upper gastrointestinal problem involving the mouth, esophagus or stomach.
Your veterinarian can do a thorough examination of your pet's oral cavity and can perform imaging procedures of the esophagus and stomach, including X-rays, a barium study and ultrasound. Licking has also been associated with diet sensitivity, or toxins. Rarely, it can be a type of seizure disorder as well.
Ask a Vet: How Often Should I Brush My Pet's Teeth?
Cheryl's question: How often do dogs and cats need to have their teeth brushed? In reality, this hardly ever happens for my pets. What is a minimum frequency you recommend?
Heather Oxford, DVM: Great question, Cheryl. Veterinary dentists recommend brushing pets' teeth every other day for optimal dental health. Pet toothbrushes come in different sizes, depending on the size of the mouth, and they even have finger brushes that resemble thimbles with bristles for cats.
It is imperative that you use veterinary toothpaste since pets will swallow the toothpaste, and regular paste for people can cause severe stomach upset. Besides, they make salmon, beef, chicken and malt flavor, which could actually help to make teeth brushing a more pleasant experience for everyone.
Ask a Vet: How Can I Protect My Treatment-Sensitive Cat from Fleas?
Sarah's question: My cat is very susceptible to worms and fleas but has had bad reactions to topical flea treatments. We always treat the environment (home and lawn) as well as the cat, but she still gets fleas! I can't bring myself to lock her indoors all the time. What are some natural or less irritating ways to fight fleas for my cat?
Heather Oxford, DVM: Great question! It sounds as though your cat may have developed a tapeworm infestation or two due to fleas. The link between the two parasites is fascinating. The type of tapeworm that commonly affects dogs and cats is completely dependent on fleas for survival.
The tapeworm eggs are passed in animal feces and then ingested by flea larvae, where they transform into an immature larval form. Once the flea larva matures into the jumping pest we all know and hate, the tapeworm larva is developed inside the flea. If the dog or cat eats the flea while grooming, the infective tapeworm larva is released into the dog or cat's intestinal tract and matures to become a tapeworm. The adult tapeworms release eggs that are shed into the feces, and the cycle continues. Hence, if the fleas and flea larvae are not around in the environment, the cycle will be broken.
Ask a Vet: Could My Cat's Skin Growth be Cancerous?
Kristine's question: In advance, know that I will take my cat to the vet. My cat has a small, black, irregularly shaped mole on her flank. I discovered it when I was petting her, but I have never seen her "bother" it. Could it be skin cancer?
Heather Oxford, DVM: I am glad you will take your cat to the veterinarian because this growth should be examined. In cats, cancerous skin growths occur more frequently than non-cancerous growths. You and your veterinarian can check the eyes, mouth (way in the back and under the tongue) and anal areas for any other growths that could indicate a cancerous type. The area that this growth is in isn't a common one for cancerous growths, but the irregular shape and pigmented appearance you describe raise some flags.
It is a little easier to decide what to do if you know how quickly it is growing, but it sounds like you've only recently discovered it. If there is any other procedure that she needs, such as a dental cleaning, I would have it removed for biopsy at that time. If not, and depending on what your veterinarian thinks, monitoring for a short time frame is reasonable. Your veterinarian can measure it and note the appearance in the record for accurate comparison at each recheck.
Ask a Vet: How Should I Treat My Cat's Chronic Upper Respiratory Infection?
Jay's question: I have a 1-year-old male cat with a chronic upper respiratory infection. Got him as a kitten and [have] been treating him ever since. Usually he is asymptomatic but will get a runny nose or eyes maybe once or twice a month. His lungs [are] always clear. Told by vet to give him gentamicin sulfate eye drops in his nose and terrimycin ointment for his eyes when he is symptomatic; otherwise, leave alone to spare his liver and kidneys. Also I keep Amoxi-drops in case he seems ill. These seem to work well. Also, [I've been] told not to get him fixed or his shots. He is a totally inside cat, active and sweet. ... Is there any other treatment that you could suggest? Or am I doing all that's necessary? He also gets L-Lysene in his daily diet.
Heather Oxford, DVM: Your kitty likely has feline herpes virus, otherwise known as rhinotracheitis virus, but don't worry -- you can't get it from him. The real concern is how contagious he is to other cats during his flare-ups, and how unlikely it is that a non-neutered male cat will be content staying indoors forever. Almost every indoor cat escapes at some point throughout their lives, no matter how hard we try to keep them in, and this is the main reason why I still recommend vaccinating with the FVRCP and rabies vaccines and neutering indoor cats.
Ask a Vet: How Can I Help My Dog Recover the Strength in Its Rear Legs?
Janet's question: My male pug's hind legs seem like they are numb; he has a hard time climbing steps and maneuvering his back legs and can't seem to control his bowels. His back legs seem almost paralyzed.
Heather Oxford, DVM: It sounds like the problems in the back legs and loss of control of his bowels may be caused by a neurological problem. As dogs age, their intervertebral discs can degenerate and become unable to absorb the compressive pressure between the vertebrae in the back. Usually, the pet jumps down off of furniture or plays too roughly, and all of a sudden one or more of these discs can herniate and put pressure on the spinal cord.
This is when you start noticing outward signs, such as difficulty moving the legs in a coordinated fashion, lack of feeling and, sometimes, urinary and fecal incontinence.
Ask a Vet: How Do I Tell If My Pet is Depressed?
Allie's question: What are some signs of depression in cats and dogs? I've heard stories about dogs being treated with antidepressants. What are your thoughts on animal psychiatry? What other options are available for sad pets?
Heather Oxford, DVM: Veterinarians have the most extensive training in animal behavior of anyone working in the pet industry, and I doubt any one of us has ever prescribed antidepressants as a first-line for animal depression.
The reason is simple: There is a language barrier between us and our patients that does not exist in human medicine. Animals don't come into our offices and tell us that their hearing or vision is failing them, that they've had a chronic headache for weeks now, or that they've been having stomach or intestinal pains that just won't go away. They just look sad. It is our first responsibility to rule out causes of depression that are endocrine/internal, neurologic or orthopedic in origin. A lot of medical causes of depression can be treated, avoiding the unnecessary use of prescription antidepressants.
MaxUpdates.tv
With your love for pets, you need to have the right training for you to maintain a healthy pet. Grooming and bathing are some of the components of the training that you have to understand. These two should not be neglected entirely and should not be overdone as well; the interval at which they are done has to be regular. Never treat the skin of your dog like your own. It is quite delicate and would not stand the strong shampoos and soaps. The skin of the dog has oil and the oil grants it some protection that you need to be careful with.
Using the strong shampoos and soaps would leave the skin dry, itchy and the dog would begin to scratch its skin. This can eventually develop into sores that would smell awful. Instead, your dog would develop some strange bad smell. A bath once a month is good enough for your dog. But in some situations, you may need to consult with a veterinarian or the internet that would advice you on the breed of the dog and in turn this will guide you on the number of times to bath it.
You have to be careful. The skin of the dog is quite sensitive and they may have allergies to the perfumes that shampoos and soaps meant for human skin are made with. There are special dog shampoos that you may use for grooming. These can be found at pet shops and you will find variety for different purposes. In situations where you are not too sure, please consult.
Occasionally, your dog can get dirty before the recommended time of bath as per type of breed. That is when you would need to rub its body with a towel that is damp but you could wash its paws. You may also run a comb through its fur and this would groom it. The dog would have smooth coat that is tangle free.
By Valerie L, eHow Contributing Writer
While you can't tell your pet to smile and say "cheese," you can encourage them through voice and gestures, and a few strategically placed pet treats to hold a pose while you snap a great picture. The great thing about taking pet pictures is pets are often unpredictable. Allow your pet's personality to naturally shine through. By using common sense and good photographic techniques along with a little bit of luck, planning and persistence, taking a photo of your pet can be a pleasant experience.
Lighting
The best light is always natural if at all possible. Staying away from flash photos will avoid that red-eye devil-dog, or possessed-cat look, but it will also create a much more natural environment for your pet. If natural light is not possible, take the photos during a sunny day in a room flooded in natural light. Have your pet sit in front of a window with the sunlight falling across their face or body. Avoid fluorescent light, which can wash out your pets' features.
Staging and Perspective
Be at eye level with your pet. Take the photo from your pets' point of reference. Close-up shots can be spectacular with the right light and perspective. Catch the real personality of your pet by being patient and waiting for them to feel at ease. Snap consecutive shots of an activity or antic that is especially comical or interesting.
Personality
Just like every child, every pet has a personality all their own, and capturing that on film can be priceless. Always keep a camera nearby for candid shots of the unexpected. Capturing a cat catapulting across a room after an insect, or a puppy finding his tail for the first time are examples of candid shots. How about placing a pair of sunglasses on your Doberman or a hat on your terrier?
Not Just Cats and Dogs
Snakes, fish, birds and ferrets can be a challenge to photograph. With just a little bit of planning and a little more patience, these photos can be dynamic. While outdoor photos are usually not an option, use as much natural light as possible to accentuate their natural colors and shading. When photographing fish, turn off your flash and place the lens of the camera against the aquarium glass. To photograph birds, don't use the flash as it can be frightening. The difference between a good and a great photo of a bird is the background, so select a background that compliments the color of the bird.
Karen Mellott - Las Vegas Examiner
Buying a pet bird should not be an impromptu act. Going to a new home is yet another situation for a bird, already under stress, to deal with. But, there are things that can be done before bringing a pet bird home that will make it less stressful on the bird and easier for the new owner. First:
* decide on species of bird
* buy cage and choose location
* have appropriate food and treats
* make sure home environment safe
* find avian veterinarian schedule visit
For a new owner it's fun and exciting when a pet bird is first brought home. However, for a new pet bird this is usually not the case. The weaning process is a stressful time.Depending on species, it can take up to six months or more to raise and wean a baby bird. All too often, birds are sold before being properly weaned or having enough time to make the transition to independence. A newly weaned baby bird whether purchased from a breeder or a store is already stressed. And bringing home an older bird can be equally stressful.
1. Plain and simple, do some research .There is no such thing as a starter bird or beginner bird. The most inexpensive species of parrot can live to be from 10 to over 25 years old. Prospective owners should think about their expectations of a pet bird and impact their lifespan can have.
2. Since many bird cages need to be assembled, buying and setting the cage up first will make the home coming smoother. Choosing the cage location and having dishes and toys in place first, will greatly reduce the amount of stress for both bird and owner.
3. Research the diet of the chosen species. The bird should be on a good diet at the time of purchase, but this is not always the case. Have familiar food and treats on hand before bringing the new bird home. If a change in diet is necessary, make it gradually, after the bird has settled in.
4. Make sure the home environment is safe and healthy for a pet bird. Toxic fumes from cookware, self cleaning ovens, scented candles, aerosol sprays, cigarette smoke as well as some foods and house plants can cause illness or death.
5. Before bringing the new bird home, locate an avian veterinarian and schedule an appointment within the time frame given by the seller.
Rochester residents that would like to see a variety of bird species and avian products should visit Birds Unlimited at 1421 Empire Blvd in Webster, New York.
by Helena Sung - PawNation.com
No matter how careful we are as pet owners, dogs and cats sometimes still manage to cut themselves, get overheated and eat things they really shouldn't. In honor of National Pet First Aid Awareness month, we at Paw Nation want to help you be prepared should trouble strike.We asked Dr. Elisa Mazzaferro, Director of Emergency Services at Wheat Ridge Animal Hospital in Colorado, and the official veterinarian of Animal Planet's Puppy Bowl VI what she recommends you do in these five common situations:
1. Treating A Cut or Scratched Paw
"One of the most important things clients can do if injury is on the animal's paw is to put pressure on it with a clean towel and bring the pet into the nearest veterinary hospital," Dr. Mazzaferro tells Paw Nation. Don't apply a tourniquet because it can decrease blood supply to the injured limb and be dangerous. And you should probably avoid rinsing a wounded paw in water. "Sometimes that will release a blood clot that's formed." says Dr. Mazzaferro.
2. Evaluating Vomiting and Diarrhea
"If your pet's vomiting or diarrhea occurs more than just a couple of times, or if there is blood in it, or any suspicion of the dog or cat having gotten into a toxin, the pet needs to be seen by a veterinarian right away," says Dr. Mazzaferro. Otherwise, if vomiting occurs just a couple of times, withhold food and water for at least six hours and see if the condition subsides. "If they continue to vomit or become lethargic, or if they're a puppy or a very small, toy breed dog, I would bring them into a vet because they can dehydrate quickly," says Dr. Mazzaferro
3. Dealing With Heatstroke
Heatstroke is especially a risk during summer months. Signs include panting, increased respiratory sounds, collapse, seizure, vomiting and bloody diarrhea. "Get the animal away from the heat immediately," says Dr. Mazzaferro. "Soak towels in room temperature or tepid water -- not cold water or ice – and place the wet towels over the dog and put a fan in the room to allow ambient cooling." Put the towels over the dog's torso, over their back, chest and abdomen. "The mistake people make is dousing the animal in ice-cold water, and that can actually cause the blood vessels in the skin to constrict and it could cause the animal's core temperature to rise and make the temperature worse," says Dr. Mazzaferro. "The most important thing is to get the animal to the vet. They may need intravenous fluids if they're severely dehydrated."
4. Handling Household Toxins
"Chocolates, onions, raisins, grapes, various plants, as well as household chemicals are commonly ingested by animals, or people give their pets over the counter medications, such as Tylenol or Advil or Aleve, and all of these can be very, very toxic or fatal to pets," says Dr. Mazzaferro. If you suspect your pet may have ingested something toxic, the best thing to do is to call the ASPCA National Poison Control Center, a 24-hour hotline at (888) 426-4435 and take your pet immediately to a veterinary hospital. (FYI, a $65 consultation fee may be applied to your credit card for the ASPCA Poison Control service.) Don't try to induce vomiting without professional advice, it can be dangerous.
5. Responding If Your Pet Is Hit By a Car
Quick thinking and knowing what to do can help save your pet after an accident. "If the injured animal is not able to move," says Dr. Mazzaferro, "put them on an immobile surface, like a flat board or big, giant piece of plywood and strap them down so that if they have a spine injury or neck injury, they won't further injure themselves." Then get the pet to the nearest veterinary facility. "Even the nicest pet can lash out when they are injured and in pain," says Dr. Mazzaferro. "People can use a towel over the animal's head or use a pair of nylons to put around the animal's muzzle and tie it shut, so that the person helping the pet keeps from getting bitten."
In general, one of the best things you can do, says Dr. Mazzaferro, is to take a basic pet first-aid course. "I think every pet owner should know the Heimlech maneuver and that's something you would learn in a first aid class," she says. The American Red Cross offers Pet First Aid classes at their locations across the country, so check their Web site to find your local Red Cross chapter.
By Sharon L. Peters, Special for USA TODAY
Young, purebred and sweet-tempered, he was nevertheless destined for death.
He'd had the misfortune, it is believed, of being purchased by someone unprepared for the strong-willed potency of a bred-for-activity chocolate Lab. And then, at 18 months, possessing no training or manners but brimming with roiling energy from lack of neutering, exercise and stimulation, all of which conspired to make him quite foolish-acting, he landed at the Biddell Animal Rescue Center (BARC) in Palestine, Texas.
The staff named him Choco, and despite the difficulty of dealing with the leash-tugging, muscle-packed gate crasher who attempted escape whenever the tiniest crack arose, they grew especially fond of him. That's an occupational heartbreak there, where far more animals become homeless than can get adopted, and the kill rate is 90%.
So when Teller County Regional Animal Shelter, the little Colorado shelter where I volunteer, offered to take some BARC death-row dogs, BARC jumped into action, choosing Choco and leggy Chihuahua mix Sandman — the first of nine dogs flown the 830 miles by Pilots and Paws pilots who transport pets for free from high-kill areas to less-crowded shelters.
Choco almost didn't make the flight because when he was being picked up for the two-hour pre-dawn drive to the airport, he slammed through the gate and raced around like a bee-stung colt.
He was captured, and landed in Colorado on a gray September morning, a rich espresso-colored lad with blocky head and droopy eyes. Folks at the small-aircraft airport clustered around him, stunned that the bad luck of geography had nearly cost him his life. We were all besotted.
We'd been warned he was a major handful, which makes adoption tougher, even here, where people appreciate high-energy dogs. I told shelter folks that if no one adopted him while I was traveling for four weeks, I'd probably like to take him.
A month later, he was still at the shelter. He'd broken away from employees three times and run off; the volunteers, accustomed to leash-yanking canines, disliked walking him. Although he was sweet (when he could settle enough to focus) and attracted admirers, no visitor wanted to assume the challenge that was Choco.
I paid the adoption fee and off we went.
I named him Otis (because he's a country boy from Texas), added a Ray to it (same reason), arranged for a trainer to come two or three times a week, and got busy.
I knew it'd be rough. I'd had a very potent chocolate Lab mix years earlier, the late great Buck, a dog so strong-willed that we went through training three times, a dog so activity-oriented he'd stand on his hind feet and yank pictures off the walls if he hadn't had enough exercise and had run out of other things to destroy. He eventually became a wonderful companion … but not, to be honest, until age 5. So, yeah. I understood the Lab-ness of Labs.
Otis Ray is in a different league.
I suspected he had probably never been in a house and would become over-stimulated, so I had erected gates limiting him to two rooms. Two rooms were too many — he just couldn't keep his composure or control his impulses. I confined him to the kitchen. Even still, the moment I released his leash he'd rev instantly into turbo speed, leaping onto the stove and into the refrigerator (an impossible fit, really, that sent juice cans and string cheese scattering), apparently determined to have up-close experiences with everything he had never seen before.
I had known that it would take time to get such a big, previously deprived, completely irrepressible dog on track. But, unexpectedly, in just days, time became an issue. My sweet, dog-loving mutt Jasper, who had instantly welcomed big Rufus into the fold when I adopted him and had been exceedingly hospitable to all 10 fosters that had passed through (some long-termers), developed a huge hatred of Otis Ray.
I think it was the unpredictability the big brown dog wore like a second coat. Like when both dogs were snoozing in the kitchen and Otis came suddenly awake and in a second rocketed across the room, leaped atop the kitchen table and skidded on the tablecloth onto Jasper's head in a pile of fabric, apples and dog limbs. That'll put even the most patient dog into a bad mood.
And there were other things — like Otis, still an unsocialized puppy (though weighing 75 pounds) careening crazily through the yard, often T-boning Jasper or slamming him against the fence.
Odd fits of unpredictability were rampant. One day, the trainer and I were working with Otis in the yard. He was doing a nice sit-stay. I was describing how he sometimes seemed calm and then, without warning, he'd surge to his feet, run purposefully across the room and hurl himself against the window to haul down the blinds (or something equally peculiar) — as if the notion of doing so had come to him in a dream.
She looked dubious. Just then, Otis executed an instant twirling mid-air turn and, wrenched free from my grasp, tore across the yard, crashed through the fence (which has contained much bigger dogs) and ran off.
He was dealing with so much: hormones (removal of male equipment, which happened when he arrived in Colorado, does not instantly end the surges or behaviors); multiple changes of environment; adjusting to life with people in a house; learning limits; house-training. He needed full-time attention, and a skilled trainer who understood he must learn not only how to sit, but also such home-life skills as how to cope with bedspreads (not for eating), people (not for knocking over), radios (not for barking at) and counters (not for surfing).
I considered taking a leave to work with him, though, really, I'm no dog trainer.
I despaired. And then it came to me. Prison.
The Colorado prison system has a brilliant program: carefully screened prisoners train dogs. The dogs live in the cells and get true 24/7 attention (prisoners being folks without many other obligations).
Receiving assurances that he would improve through their 30-day program, I drove Otis Ray the 60 miles to the correctional complex, paid $450 and watched hopefully as the prison van drove off with him.
Can 30 days behind bars get an incorrigible Lab on the right track? Read Pet Talk next week to find out.
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