Wednesday, October 17, 2007

Sit, Stay, Fetch

Dogs aren't always just fun and games and enjoyable time. If you have a dog you must also count of barking, aggression towards other animals or even people, whining, growling, disobedience for commands and the list could go on endlessly. Having a disobedient dog can be an issue to you as an owner or to the others around you. For this reason, you need to take some measures and train your dog to be socially acceptable and to be the way it won't embarrass you in public. If you try the sit-stay-fetch method to train your dog, you will be amazed how fast your disobedient dog becomes an angel that you want to praise all the time.

The sit-stay-fetch method is a revolutionary training means that will change the unacceptable behavior of your dog and help you as a master be in charge of your dog. One of the main advantages of the sit-stay-fetch program is that it will have fast action and you will see your dog making progress by leaps and bounds. Did you think that you have to deal with your dog's chewing for the rest of your life and see how your pet chews your favorite clothes and shoes? Well think again. Thanks to the sit-stay-fetch technique, your dog will soon learn that it cannot simply chew anything, and it will concentrate on its chewing toys only.

If barking is an issue for you and your neighbors, and you have had many complaints so far, you don't have to worry about that anymore. You will be able to identify the reasons why your dog barks and put an end to this noise. Teaching your dog to sit still without barking can be easy with the sit-stay-fetch technique.

So, what is this sit-stay-fetch method about? Well, this is an obedience course for the dog owner that has issues with their pets. The course will let the animal owners know how to make the right things to make the dogs obedient. The sit-stay-fetch online book is easy to get and it is available for everyone for free. It will only take 6 days and you will see the difference after this course. You will enjoy the time spent with your dog and it will sit when you want it to sit, stay when you want it to stay and fetch the things you need, without chewing, barking or whining. This cutting edge method will teach both you and your dog who the boss is.

You will be amazed how easy it is to have a well trained dog and how to turn your dog into one. Forget about shouting and getting angry at your dog. The sit-stay-fetch method is a friendly approach that you will love and even your dog will get to like it. So, wouldn't you like a friendly dog that has learned how to behave properly in a short time?

Demosthenes Damon is an article writer and dog lover. To learn more about his the reviews of dog training products please visit http://www.dogbookdoubter.com/ or click Dog Training

Thursday, October 11, 2007

The easy natural ways to protect your dog from fleas.

• Make use of vacuum cleaners to get rid of dust. Do not forget to seal the vacuum bags before you dispose them off.

• These parasites mostly breed on your dog's bed. You must clean the bedding once a week with warm soapy water.

• Use of a dog shampoo also helps in keeping the fleas away.

• Cedar made products are naturally flea repellent. Use cedar shampoo for your dog and also put cedar oil on their beds.

• A dogs dry skin attracts fleas. To keep their skin moist you should refrain from doing too much shampooing. Linatone oil in their food can also help.

• A mixture of brewer's yeast and garlic can be given in small doses to your pet. This creates a certain odor in pets, and seems to repel fleas.

• Fresh or dried pennyroyal leaves is also a natural flea repellent. Use this in carpets to avoid the abundance of fleas in your home. However, do not use it if you have small children around, as this could be toxic.

• You may also use a mixture of lavender oil and rock salt to bathe your dog and sprinkle it in the places where dogs usually prefer to rest.

• Marigolds can also be planted in your backyard as it keeps away fleas, as well as other certain kinds of bugs.

• You may also give your dog a quick bath in boiled lemon water or by using orange peels in the water. This can also be used for soaking your dogs bedding for a few hours before washing it with warm soapy water.

Remember that bathing your dog will only work if the infestation is low. In fact, these methods of keeping fleas away are only preventive in nature and wouldn't work well if the infestation level is too high.

There are number of commercially made products that are also available in the market. Let us take a look at them.

• Advantage: This is a product from Bayer having imidaclorid as the active ingredient. Advantage comes in liquid form and is applied on the dog's back. It quickly kills the fleas by breaking the nervous system of the fleas and its effect lasts for about a month. Although it is a liquid, it is safe for your dog as it does not get absorbed into its bloodstream.

Advantage also kills the flea larvae.

K9 Advantix: Also from Bayer, it has quickly become the favorite of veterinarians and dog owners. It is for dogs only. Its active ingredients are Imidacloprid and Permethrin. It kills fleas, mosquitoes, and ticks, including deer ticks and keeps working after swimming or bathing.

• Frontline Plus: Frontline is not much different from Advantage except that it is not soluble in water. The product can be used safely for your dogs and puppies. It is very efficient in repelling the fleas and its effect can last for over four months.

It contains Fipronil as its active ingredient.

Like Advantage, Fipronil also attacks the nervous system and causes instant death in about 24 hours. In spite of being highly toxic it is not harmful to your dog, unless your dog is not allergic to fipronil.

• Biospot: Biospot is meant for dogs only. It kills up to 75% of fleas and larvae and is also effective for mosquitoes. Biospot can temporarily alter the color of your pet's hair and make it appear yellowish. It contains permethrins and IGR and is effective for about a month.

• Knockout: Another effective product that is exclusively meant for dogs. Its active ingredients include Pyriproxyfen: 21 pyridine: 0.05% cyclopropanecarboxylate: 2%. It also contains NYLAR to control the flea growth.

• Proban and Prospot: Again exclusively and widely used for dogs. However these repellents only work when the fleas bite the dog as they are effective only after they are absorbed in the bloodstreams. You also need to remember that you are injecting a small quantity of poison into your dogs body and you may not even know the side effects. Also, if your dog is allergic to the flea bites these may not be the right products.

Fleas thrive during the summer as it is their breeding season. Commercial products are effective during this time, but it is always better to consult your vet before you actually begin to using these products on your dog.

Teaching your dog tricks is every dog owner's dream. Learn how dog tricks training can help reinforce basic obedience training for dogs, as well as improve agility.

Dog Tricks Training

Tuesday, October 2, 2007

The Invisible Dog Fence and its Advantages

An invisible dog fence is a special wire buried on your property that ensures the dog does not go outside the safety of its home. Additionally, It helps dog owners make certain that their dogs will not bring upon any unplanned destruction to someone else's property.

Invisible dog fences are really plain. The wire moves a signal broadcasted from a tiny unit. The dog wears a unique collar that receives an electrical shock if it approaches the wire or goes across the fence. More precisely, these electrical signals are mostly zoned. When the dog crosses a warning zone anywhere close to the wire, it is going to hear a warning audio signal originating from the collar. If it gets even closer, it will receive a buzz from a small electrical impulse via the collar. These fences are simply modifiable and can be set up to satisfy any dog and any plan established by the owner, including the extensions of both the warning and the correction zones. Furthermore, the strength of the electrical impulse can be changed to match the size and character of the dog.

This electronic fence can efficiently retain dogs inside the owner's property and in addition help them get to know their boundaries. Upon taking a few shocks, the dog is automatically trained by the system to keep away from the boundaries of the property. Secondly, underground dog fences are very functional in the fact that they really do not take up any large property space. They are controlled by the collar the dog is wearing, and the designated areas the dog is allowed to stay in.

What is excellent about invisible fences is the fact that they can be wired and programmed to guard almost any sensitive area of your home which is prone to the playful mischief of your lively dog, such as gardens, swimming pools, driveways, fish ponds, flowerbeds and other important areas. The only problem with these invisible fences is that they cannot evade other people or animals trespassing onto your property.

Dogs must all the time be securely contained so that they won`t be teased or harmed by other animals or by children and so that they can`t break free. Invisible or electronic fence is one of the best alternatives, still, dog owners should also conduct a methodical research on every firm and each do-it-yourself kit to assure it satisfies their needs. In addition, they should keep the collar in working order and oversee the dog while it is outside.

Milos Pesic is an expert in the field of invisible fence electronic dog containment systems and runs a highly popular and comprehensive Northern New Jersey web site. For more articles and resources on electronic dog fence, electric pet containment system and much more visit his site at:

http://www.hiddenfence.com/

Monday, July 2, 2007

The Most Important Thing to Know About Reptiles

The sudden popularity of reptiles and amphibians as pets, in particular exotics, has created a host of problems for those who want to keep them. Legislation regarding type, size, breeding restrictions and cage requirements have been swiftly passed at many levels of government to ensure that the general public and local fauna are not put at risk by the accidental introduction of non-indigenous species. Meeting these requirements can mean unexpected expense and frustration.

Husbandry can be problematic for potential owners as well. When one keeps a dog or cat, a general understanding of their needs exists and people are usually prepared to meet those needs. Reptiles and amphibians are not as easily cared for as conventional pets. For one thing they have a wide spectrum of environmental needs. One may require a constant supply of vitamin D via exposure to sunlight, while another is completely nocturnal and sun-reclusive. Not meeting these needs can result in needless suffering, big veterinarian expenses or loss of the animal.

Sustenance can pose even more of a challenge. One must be able to meet the dietary needs of the animal they plan to keep. For instance, most people are not aware that snakes are carnivorous without exception. The cute, colorful animal at the pet store will not eat fruit or vegetables. Depending on the species, you will have to provide mammals, fish, other reptiles and amphibians or insects. Even if you opt for pre-killed frozen food, many find this a repulsive task.

Then there are the vermin that may come with the animal. Snakes are prone to mites, lizards and turtles to burrowing parasites, amphibians to fungus. Then there is mouth rot, rickets and eye caps, just to name a few of the scores of ailments that can occur.

There is much to consider before choosing a reptile or amphibian as a pet. Responsible husbandry should start with knowing the facts before you acquire an animal. If you want to be happy with the creature you choose and provide quality care, impulse should yield to knowledge. Don't just jump at the first animal that catches your eye; research their needs and peculiarities to ensure it is a good fit.

Libraries and the internet are excellent resources for arming yourself with necessary knowledge, but joining a local herpetological group or society will pay even bigger dividends. Even if the nearest herpetological society is a two-hour drive from where you live, it is worth the once a month trip to attend meetings. There you will meet others who already have the knowledge and experience you are trying to acquire. Most, if not all, will be willing to spend time with you before or after the meeting to answer your questions and give you pointers.

You will benefit from the different speakers who will be headlined at the meetings and be added to the mailing list for the society to receive relevant herpetological news. Through your networking you will develop friendships and associations with other members that can benefit you in many ways.

Finally, for very meager annual dues, you will be a member of a group of people who come from all walks of life, who all work together for the society's common cause, which is educating the public on herpetological interests. As a co-founder of the Everglades Herpetological Society, I made friends with many well-known zoologists and other scientists, policemen, college professors, authors, professional football players and a host of others. Our common interest in herpetology bridged all cultural and societal gaps and great friendship developed.

Best of all, my attendance at meetings and associations with other members gave me a free education in the care and breeding of reptiles. As a result of my membership, in less than a decade I went from being a complete novice to someone others sought out for expert advice on Florida reptiles and amphibians.

The bottom line is this; if you want to have a pleasant, successful experience with keeping reptiles and amphibians, know first what you are doing. To "know", you need to be around those who have already been where you want to be. You will find them at your local herpetological society. Find it. Join it.

The author is a retired Coast Guard Officer with over 32 years of service. He is a co-founder of the Everglades Herpetological Society of Miami and a field expert on Florida herpes. His most popular book, "Cold Noses at the Pearly Gates" delivers hope and comfort to those who have lost a precious pet in a very gentle, yet convincing way. Visit at http://www.coldnosesbook.com for more information and tips.

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

Thursday, June 21, 2007

Dog Buying Tips

In America approximately 73 million people own a dog. A dog brings many moments of happiness into your life. As they make great companions and give unconditional love. Owning a canine companion can be the beginning years of lifetime loyalty and friendship.
Before buying a dog, it is necessary to decide on the kind of dog that will meet your expectation. Our article discusses valuable and informative dog buying tips to lend you help for purchasing a dog. It would be good if you discuss these points with everyone in the family.

  • Age: When purchasing a puppy, ensure that it should not be younger than eight weeks. This is because during the initial few weeks, puppies go through lots of physical changes. A puppy’s eyes and ears open and they begin to taste solid food along with the weaned. Few weeks with littermates also help in overall growth of the puppy. The young puppy needs more attention, patience, care and medical-assistance. So ideally, no pup should be purchased before eight weeks. It is also illegal at some places to sell animals less than eight weeks old.

  • Breed: Before selecting the breed, do some research on dogs to evaluate the right kind of dog for you and your family. Note the dog size, coat, care requirements and temperament. You should also evaluate your and your family members’ health issues. For example, if you’re allergic to fur or are asthmatic then select a dog breed which has less fur and sheds less hair. If you are buying a dog for security or surveillance then you must go for an adult dog. They will immediately help you in or some specified purchase motive.

  • Health: Be sure to visually examine the puppy before purchasing. Pups tend to spend lot of their time sleeping, but when they are awake they should be alert, active, and energetic. They should have a clean and shiny coat. There should not be any mucous filled discharge flowing from their eyes. Ask the breeder about the test conducted on dog’s parent to ensure healthy puppy. Pups should have at least one set of booster dosage shots before you take the pup home. When purchasing an adult dog, keep in mind the same health issues as with puppy. Besides that, also look for health, illnesses, and vaccination records.
  • Maintenance: Dogs have regular and daily needs including food, shelter, exercise, grooming and health. Depending upon time which you can exclusively devote in taking care of the dog, you should select a breed. For example, play dogs require more maintenance than guarding or hunting dogs. Particularly, guarding dog " Doberman " requires less care and maintenance. Please remember that if you are purchasing a dog, you should be willing to commit yourself to the pet.

  • Money: Money is also a consideration while purchasing a dog. Some dog breeds are extremely expensive, while some are quite affordable. Expenses would include adoption fees, vaccines, various tests, basic yearly health examination, flea control, license, food items, collar and leashes, brushes, combs, shampoos, nail trimmers, etc. Evaluate your budget and ask yourself if you are ready to spend the purchase cost as well as monthly expenditure.

  • Breeders: Selecting a reputable breeder is advisable to ensure a healthy and active dog without diseases. It is important to screen the breeder about the parent of the puppy or adult dog. If you are purchasing through club or dog seller, you should ask for the contact information about the previous purchaser.

We hope that the dog buying tips discussed here will help you select the right dog breed that best matches your needs! For more information on various dog breeds, visit www.greatdogsite.com

Paul, Owner of greatdogsite.com has written on Dog Buying Tips . Please visit: www.greatdogsite.com for more information.

Wednesday, June 20, 2007

Bird Cages - Home Tweet Home

by: Susan Fielding

Having any kind of pet in your home is a major responsibility, as they have the same needs as we do. They need to be loved, fed on time and kept safe.

If you are looking for a bird as a pet, the first thing you should have before even bringing it home is a bird cage. This is going to be his/her home and should give your bird a feeling of comfort and security. Buying a bird cage is an expensive affair, and great care should be taken before purchasing one.

The first thing to consider is safety, as many birds have become injured - from minor toe abrasions to death from strangulation.

The majority of bird cages are made from different kinds of metal that include wire, stainless steel, zinc, brass and chrome. The most economical types are wire cages, and are processed in two different ways: galvanized after welded, and galvanized before welded. The reason for galvanizing the metal is to prevent the metal from rusting; therefore buying a cage that has been galvanized after welding is the safer option.

Metal cages are manufactured in a variety of metals, sizes, shapes and colors and are moderately priced. They are usually made of brass or chrome plated, or they have a powdered coated paint finish. Bird cages that have the painted finish are more resistant to chipping and rust, and are easier to clean than the plated cages where the plating can wear off over time.

A cage made of stainless steel is the most expensive, but it is the safest material for cage construction and will last a lifetime. While decorative features may give the cage a great look, it can be risky and cause injuries.

Bar spacing is also important in preventing injuries. The bars need to be smaller than the bird's head, and horizontal bars give a bird greater climbing mobility for additional exercise and play.

When considering size, the largest bird cage should be considered, or at least one where a bird can extend both wings at the same time. Therefore the width of the cage is more important than the height.

Other features to consider are the main entry door on the cage, which should be large enough to be able to remove the bird with ease, and lock down feeder dishes and dish covers and hoods to prevent a mess. Entry doors and feeder doors should have a locking mechanism to prevent accidental escape.

Removable grids and litter trays, as well as removable seed guards and play tops to give the bird time out of the cage, are other options to look out for.

Purchasing a new bird and buying supplies is a thrilling experience, but the safety factor should be given top priority to ensure your bird is secure within the confines of his/her new home.

For further detailed information on bird cages be sure to visit Bird Cages


Tuesday, June 19, 2007

Choosing the right bed for your dogs

There are a lot of beautiful dog beds in luxury fabrics and a variety of shapes and sizes including the new double donut dog bed in the market today and you can even choose from dog beds in over 70 different colors and fabrics to match any decor. Style, comfort, price, materials, quality – these are just few of the things that you should consider first when buying dog bed for your precious little ones.

Aside from the comfort that it can give to your dogs, your dog’s bed will be a great addition to your home. We recommend that you visit the retailer’s website to know more information about any of the products that we are featuring here.

We know that every dog needs a place of his own, and the right dog bed can provide that perfect, quiet spot for any canine. Aside from adding a stylish element to your home decor, dog beds can also provide a multitude of benefits for your dog pets. And, with an amazing array of shapes, styles and colors dog beds have really come into their own. There are also functional designs in the market that’s sure to fit your needs. Dog beds can also be used in the overall training program of your dog.

Many of us love snuggling with our dogs in our own beds and even sleeping with them. But do you know that letting your dog sleep with you in your bed can lead to a poor night’s rest for you. A disruptive night can affect your mood and cause you to be less productive the following day – another reason to buy your dog his own bed.

When choosing a dog bed, keep these important considerations in mind:

* Assess the size, age and health of your dog and think about the type and style of bed in which your dog will be most comfortable. Heated Toy Breed Dog Bed is perfect for keeping your small and toy-breed dog warm and cozy year-round. While Pillow beds are a good choice for maximum lounging.
* You should also check to see if the covering on the bed is removable and washable. Try to get a washable cover because coverings will surely get dirty over time.
* You can also try to match the dog bed you wan buy to the overall look or décor of the room where you will be keeping it. Today, there are a lot of fashionable options you have and there is no reason for you to have or to hide an unsightly dog bed.
* Consider what you want to spend. There are a variety of price points to meet your budgetary needs and for more great options and value, visit our recommended retailer’s website.
* Choose a bed that is the right size for your dog. The ratio of the dog to the bed should be proportioned. The dog should be able to lie flat, completely stretched out on his side, without hanging off of the bed.

source:
http://www.dogbed-4less.com/choosing.html

Basic Dog Travel Tips When Taking A Vacation With Your Canine Friend

There are certain things you should prepare ahead of time, in order to have an enjoyable vacation with your dog. These tips should help you that your road trip and vacation with your canine friend is not ending in a nightmare. In case of an emergency or any unpredictable situation that may occur you need to be ready. Before you go on that road trip with your dog, keep the following items in mind and make sure that you have them ready and available.

1. First of all, check with your veterinary if your dog is in a good and healthy condition for that vacation and if any inoculation is recommended for your desired destination. While you are already at your veterinary, ask for medication in case your dog should get ill during the trip. Don’t forget the medication or vitamins he is currently taking.

2. Should you own a female, check with your veterinary if she could get eventually on heat during the vacation, if so, your veterinary will know the right advice.

3. A dog crate is highly recommended for security reasons for your dog and your self. You always should keep in mind, if you are on the road and you have to brake from only 20 miles to zero, your dog will fly through the hole care and perhaps through the front window, if the dog is not well secured. This would be not only very dangerous for your dog, it’s also very dangerous for your self! Train your dog for the cage BEFORE your starting your trip.

4. An adequate supply of dog food to last for the entire trip. Make sure to bring enough extra food. It is possible, that your brand of dog food is not available at your vacations destination. With enough extra food, you are not risking any food changes for your dog.

5. Your dogs “home-blanket” or “home-bed”, his bowls and toys. With that, your dog will feel him self more at home and more safety at the new place. Some extra toys for him to play with, which will also help to keep him busy during the road trip.

6. At least three gallons of extra water for your dog. If you are going to a different country, keep in mind that the water there may be different from the water you have at home. Since your dog may be sensitive to the differences in the water, which could make him sick, be sure that you carry enough water to last for the entire trip.

7. An extra water bowl for use during the trip. Do some brakes to water your dog and let him do his potty breaks. Paper towels and plastic bags to clean up after his potty breaks. Do not feed your dog during the road trip.

5. A specifically made first-aid kit for your dog.

6. A buckle collar with a clear and legible ID tag as well as a tag and license that show his updated vaccination for rabies. This tag should be worn at all times.

7. Several chew toys.

8. An extra leash and extra collar.

9. His grooming kit you regularly use during his grooming sessions, which could include a brush, flea comb, nail clippers, toothbrush.

10. Large blankets and thick towels in case he decides to jump in a river or run in a muddy ground.

I hope this tips will help you for your vacation planning.

source:

Dani is a dog lover and dog owner already his entire live. You can find helpful Dog Breed Information and tips around the dog at his website: just4thedogs.com.