From the monthly archives:

January 2009

Turtles Have Always Been An Educational Pet

by Pet Care on January 30, 2009


Turtles have long fascinated many people in many ways. Their physical features, behavior and potentially long life expectancy attract many people to see these amazing amphibians.

Taking on turtles as pets is said to be rewarding. Raising turtles has been practiced by many cultures a long time ago. In some countries, little ones and hatchlings are trapped and sold as home pets. Children and grown ups alike are both seen involved in the care of them.

What are turtles and how old do they get?

A turtle is the only reptile with an outer shell. Turtles are found in nearly all warm sections of the world. Most of them thrive on land and freshwater while few are found in seas and oceans. The terrestrial kinds are commonly known as tortoise while water dwelling ones may be called terrapins.

The turtles body, both organs and backbones, are encapsulated in the shell, creating protection to its head, neck, and limbs. As a turtle grows, the materials overlap the shell edges making it even tougher. The shell is often strong enough to support 200 times a turtle’s weight.

It is believed that turtles have a very long life-span, with some having reached 100 years or more. In some species, shell appearance may indicate a turtle’s age. Reproduction cycle involves courting and mating of sexes, fertilization, egg-laying and hatching by females (which normally happens annually).

A Turtles main food comes from both plants and animals. Its natural diet may consist of fish, earthworms, snails, tadpoles, leafy greens and other numerous aquatic plants.

It has been proven that turtles are smart reptiles and possess sensitive senses. They can feel vibrations and can see patterns and colors. Their sense of smell appears good at close range especially when determining types of good, though their sense of sight is not so good in some species.

Are turtles good pets?

Since 1971, the U.S. has banned selling turtles which measures less than four inches long. Turtles are commonly known to carry Salmonella bacteria which when infecting humans may cause death. An example is a case in 2007 where a 4-year old kid in Florida died and it was linked to salmonella poisoning from a small turtle.

Turtles can be good pets but caution must be taken when choosing and taking care of them. Ensure you wash hands before and after touching them. Refrain from bringing the turtle too close to any of your body parts especially the mouth. And try to keep it in one area as to not spread possible infections around your home.

Lastly, the caring of turtles is not easy, but the efforts can be very rewarding. Turtles, just like dogs and cats, can recognize their caretakers. When trained, they can follow simple instructions and develop habits. They’re said to be playful and loyal.

There are many reasons to check a persons morality, especially if you need to trust someone with your health, money or life (such as a pet store owner or doctor). Looking for criminal records or maybe you’d like to check someone’s property records? This information could reflect the way a person does business. You can never be too cautious.

P.S. For the other pet tips - house train a dog info - visit this blog.

Captivating Cordet Boquet Are The Striking Dog Collars

by Pet Care on January 30, 2009


My dog’s wardrobe was full of different attires and accessories. My son is very fond of Valley. He is so fond of his pet Valley that he wants him to be beside him most of the time or every time possible. Even when he is doing his studies, Valley has to accompany him and even Valley is very fond of my son Robert. Whenever I shop for Robert, he insists that I should buy something for his favorite Valley also. Valley has to accompany Robert in good dresses and he should be completely fit with all the latest accessories too. So one day while Robert was surfing through the internet to the websites to find out the latest trends, he located that there are many beautiful Dog Collars available in the market. Now Robert had made up his mind that he wanted to buy a Dog collars for Valley so that after wearing this unique collar he would look great and charming. All the collars were competently designed and some of them were even offered and designed along with the harness so that they even protect the dog’s neck in a stylish way.

My son placed an order for the Cordet Boquet Collar for Valley and was eagerly waiting for it to arrive. It was shipped to our house within a few days. Now Robert put the collar round Valley’s neck and was very excited because he looked really very charming. Even Valley was looking very comfortable wearing this collar around his neck because of its perfect finishing. Now Valley was looking more dazzling with the collar around his neck and he was also confident that his master knew his likes and dislikes very easily. Both Robert and Valley were good friends and they understood each others’ likings. Putting a collar around the dogs’ neck also makes an identity that this particular dog belongs to someone. This matchless Cordet Boquet Collar is designed so elegantly that anyone would envy but you will feel proud that you have such a good choice. This collar is designed in pink color and it is completely handmade with bouquets of lovely pastel flowers with a further perfection given with the help of the dazzling sequin right in the middle of every flower which adds more attraction to the collar. This beautiful Fancy Dog Collars is even available with different sizes in 8 “, 10”, 12”, and 14” also. The only thing which we have to keep in mind is that the dog’s neck should be properly measured with the help of a measurement tape to avoid confusions. Once everything is perfectly measured, then you should buy the Designer dog collars and see that the dog feels very comfortable wearing it. There are many more accessories which can be bought for the dogs these days and they are very reasonable too. The Captivating Cordet Bouquet Collar also is very reasonably priced because it got it for $ 35.00 only. The item code of this collar is SKU 164841.

Adopting From A Labrador Rescue Centre: Before And After

by Pet Care on January 30, 2009


Labrador Retrievers are among the most common dogs to be surrendered to shelters. Sadly, this is a trend that is easily avoidable, but usually is not. There are two most frequent reasons that the populations of Labrador rescue centres are growing daily. The owners of these dogs give them up because of their energy, or because of their poor behavior as a result of lack of training. Other people simply discover that they do not have the time to pay attention to their adopted dogs. Labrador Retrievers are energetic and enthusiastic dogs, and many owners cannot learn to control them, so they choose to take them to animal shelters so someone else can deal with them.

Another reason why Labradors in shelters are growing more numerable is due to abuse. It is a sad fact, but animal abuse is become more and more common these days. In past years it was much easier for a Labrador to find a good home. Now, it is much more difficult to find good and supportive homes for these animals.
If you’re interested in adopting a Labrador from a rescue centre, it’s important to know that it may not be easy. The thing to remember is this: if you’re patient and devoted, you will have gained a very special friend in the end. It’s a labor of love. Labradors are naturally energetic and need lots of exercise in addition to any special needs caused by previous abuse and neglect.

Choosing the right rescue centre can make all the difference sometimes. Sadly, many rescue centres are little better than the homes that these wayward animals have come from in the first place. It’s important to look for animal shelters that are staffed by loving and attentive individuals. Many Labradors have developed distrust or aggression towards humans because they were abused in the past. Look for animal shelters that spend time with their animals, and also have the facilities to give them the medical attention that they need.
There are many mistakes that prospective Labrador adopters can make. The most common of these is expecting love at first sight in the Labrador rescue centre. Many of the Labradors in rescue centres have come from abusive homes, and it might take some time before they learn to trust you. Don’t expect too much of them right away, and don’t be discouraged if things don’t go smoothly at first. The worst thing you can do is give up too early. Take the time to make sure your Labrador becomes comfortable in its new surroundings before you introduce young children, other pets or training.

It can be a lot of work, but be assured that it will be well worth it in the end. Things might not go smoothly at first, but if you are patient and loving towards your adopted Labrador, they will become a very loyal, very special friend.

Finding the right Labrador rescue centre goes a long way towards making an adoption successful. Good Labrador information will prepare you for the needs of your pet.

All About The Miniature Poodle Breed Standard

by Pet Care on January 30, 2009


Could that dog in the shelter be a Miniature Poodle? Recognizing a Poodle type dog is a lot more than just looking at what clip their coat is in. Most Miniature Poodles in shelters or breed rescues are not in the fancy show clips. But there are still ways to recognize a Miniature Poodle. The Humane League of the United States estimates that twenty-five percent of all abandoned animals are purebreds. So, the odds of that shelter dog being a purebred Miniature Poodle are pretty high.

No Miniature Poodle will fulfill every requirement of the breed standard. If you are not sure what the Miniature Poodle breed standard is, even the one for Standard Poodles (the big guys) will suffice. They are identical except for size. A Miniature Poodle is between eleven and fifteen inches tall at the shoulder. They should ideally weigh from fifteen to seventeen pounds, but the shelter dog will most likely be less or more than that.
Any Poodle information for Standard Poodles tends to also apply to Miniature Poodles, only on a smaller scale. Their breed standards are identical (again, except for size). They should be lean, athletic dogs under remarkably puffy coats. Their expression should be happy and lively. Their trot should be lively and bouncy, with their heads and tails naturally held high. Many show Poodles have their tails half docked – a practice which is thankfully dying out.

The breed standard is usually based on looking at a Poodle in profile. In profile, a Miniature Poodle should stand square, have a level topline (spine) and a profile that looks somewhat chiseled and not heavily jowled. The preferred eye color for the show ring is a dark brown, but much lighter eye colors happen often in pet Miniature Poodles. The ears are floppy, with rounded ends and seem to hug the head. They may or may not have dewclaws.
The Miniature Poodle comes in many colors, but all of them are to be solid for show dogs. Even the lips and nose should be the same color. This is where a lot of Miniature Poodles fall short as show dogs, as they could have bi-colored lips, or more than one color in their coats. Some brown Miniature Poodles will go prematurely grey, so a grey-tipped brown Miniature Poodle may be younger than he looks. Other faults common to Miniature Poodles include large, protruding eyes, an overbite, ewe-neck, a too low tail carriage or a downward sloping topline.

The breed standard for any dog breed is an ideal representation of the breed, not necessarily based on any living example. But the breed standards can act as a good general guide for identifying dogs in shelters. Miniature Poodles are a pretty distinctive breed, and usually are easily and accurately identified by even newbie shelter volunteers. Miniature Poodles, no matter what they look like, will make wonderful pets.

The three Poodle types are Standard, Miniature and Toy. Good Poodle information is at the tip of your fingers with the Internet.

Exotic Pomeranian Puppies Worth The Hype?

by Pet Care on January 30, 2009


When you are thinking of adopting a pound puppy or an older puppy from a shelter, you might come across a pup that is built a lot like a Pomeranian, but is a strange color. Or perhaps the color looks great on the dog, but you are told that no Pomeranians come in that color that are breed standard. If you want a Pomeranian, you have found a good puppy. You’ve just found an exotic Pomeranian puppy as opposed to a standard Pomeranian puppy.

The colors of exotic Pomeranian puppies will be strange shades of gray and brown that you can’t find matches for in official Pomeranian information from clubs, the American Kennel Club or dog books. The most spectacular color that exotic Pomeranian puppies come in is blue merle. Blue merle is a normal color on some breeds like the rough and smooth Collies or the Shetland Sheepdog, but for some reason is frowned on in Pomeranians.
Exotic Pomeranian puppies will still be built like standard Pomeranian puppies, no matter what their coat color. Since the Humane League of the United States says that one quarter of all abandoned pets are purebreds, the chances are good that your suspected exotic Pomeranian puppy is a purebred. This will help you determine what the strengths and weaknesses of your potential puppy are. You also will be better prepared for medical problems later on.

Exotic Pomeranian puppies will most likely be abandoned due to no fault of their own. Due to their small size, they (like most toy dogs) are difficult to housetrain. Tiny bladders mean they cannot hold that much. Some have been successful in training exotic Pomeranian puppies to use a litter box. Their coats shed a lot, and molt twice a year. At four to five months of age, exotic Pomeranian puppies can look quite scraggly. These coats need daily grooming, or else they get unsanitary quickly.
Exotic Pomeranian puppies are delicate, almost to the point of ridiculousness. They can be killed by jumping from your arms to the floor or by simply being stepped on. You need to always be aware of where such a creature is. Chihuahuas are tougher than a Pomeranian. Cats are tougher than a Pomeranian. Most breeds of rabbits are tougher than a Pomeranian. But if you don’t plan to do any roughhousing and have a patient nature, then a Pomeranian can make a great friend.

Exotic Pomeranian puppies are wary of strangers, having been bred to guard their people. They may not jump up to the bars of their cage, wagging away, at the shelter. They usually cower in the back. You need to win their trust and friendship, which is usually pretty easy to do. Pomeranians cannot resist being adored, and a slow, steady person will soon have a bundle of exotic Pomeranian puppy in their laps.

All Pomeranian types make great companions. The more Pomeranian information you learn the better prepared you will be to raise one.

Shih Tzu Mixed Breeds

by Pet Care on January 30, 2009


The Shih Tzu is one of the many pure breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC), which is a revered organization where purebred dogs can register and compete. Shih Tzu dogs have many defining characteristics that will be listed later in this article. The important thing to know is that the AKC only allows dogs that meet breed standards and have a pedigree or documented lineage to compete in standard dog shows. Substandard dogs, even if they are purebred, cannot compete.

Some Shih Tzu owners purposefully breed substandard Shih Tzu due to desire for a smaller version of the already “toy” dog. Miniature Shih Tzu, or Teacup Shih Tzu, do not meet the height and weight requirements of standard Shih Tzu. Though the American Kennel Club does not recognize Teacup Shih Tzu, they can compete through alternative organizations like the National Canine Association. Teacup Shih Tzu are also called Chinese Imperial Dogs.
The Shih Tzu is believed to have descended from cross breeding the Lhasa Apso and Pekingese. The Shih Tzu dates back at least to the 17th century and possibly as much as 2000 years. These dogs have an illustrious history. Initially bred by Tibetan monks, Shih Tzu were referred to as “Lion Dogs” and were deemed holy. Later, they became the pets of Chinese emperors. Shih Tzu were recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1969 and have won a record-breaking number of AKC competitions since that time. Though Teacup Shih Tzu dogs are smaller than breed standard, they are still referred to as Chinese Imperial Dogs due to their illustrious history.

The American Kennel Club has certain breed standards, which dogs of each breed must have in order to compete. Shih Tzu must weigh between nine and sixteen pounds, must be between eight and eleven inches in height, and must have a compact body with any color combination of long, silky fur. Facial hair must be gathered in a topknot out of the eyes. The eyes are dark with very little of the white showing. The AKC even has breed standards for temperament. Shih Tzu must be happy, outgoing, friendly, and trusting.
The Teacup Shih Tzu is also referred to as a Toy, Miniature, Toi, Pocket, or Imperial Shih Tzu. It is registered as a breed with the National Canine Association under the name Chinese Imperial dog. Whatever name you call it, Teacup Shih Tzu dogs are smaller than standard Shih Tzu. They weigh only four to seven pounds and stand less than nine inches tall as adults.

Teacup Shih Tzu are purebred and may have just as documented an ancestry as standard Shih Tzu. But because they are substandard in size, the American Kennel Club will not allow them to register for competition. The NCA has cleared this up by registering them as an entirely new breed. Teacup Shih Tzu, or Chinese Imperial Dogs, have the long, silky fur, happy temperament, and brown or black eyes of the standard Shih Tzu, but have shorter backs, smaller overall size, and a cuter, more doll-like face. Many who want a smaller, more adorable version of the standard Shih Tzu love these little dogs.

The Teacup Shih Tzu is one example of Shih Tzu mixed breeds. Shih Tzu information and the differences between standard and Teacup Shih Tzu are subjects covered in this article.

Local Moving Services Can Help Move Your Pets

by Pet Care on January 28, 2009


Moving can be a stressful experience for anybody. Ordinarily, it is more stressful for a dog than human. Depending of the distance, you will need to decide whether you want to board your dog on a plane, use local moving services, long distance moving services, or even better you’re going on a road trip with Buddy. If you decide to go with the moving services, consider getting feedback from people who had previously used services to move their pets. Do some research on the Internet! You want the best people to handle your pet. If you need to board your dog on a plane, contact the airline at least 6-months in advance. Some airlines only allow one pet on each flight and believe me this spot gets full in a heart-beat.

If you choose option 2 and 3, you might want to accustom your dog to car travel before the big day. Start with short trips around town. Don’t forget to reward your dog at the end of each trip. Your dog needs to learn that vehicle trips are fun!

Regardless of the means of transportation, you need a clean bill of health from your vet. Make sure your animal’s vaccination is up to date. Gather information from the state/country you’re going to relocate to. Some countries require animalsto be rabies vaccinated at least 30-days before crossing the border. If you’re planning to board your dog at any time, the Bordatella vaccine is important for kennel cough prevention. Finally, if you’re entering an area where ticks are present, consider about getting your dog a Lyme vaccine. Ask your vet if it is necessary to sedate your dog if it is going to be one of those far-away moves.

Regardless of the distance, you need to develop a moving plan for your dog. This includes:

- Identification: If your dog ever gets lost, having a proper identification will help Buddy come home sooner
- Crate: You might want to consider getting one of those heavy-duty plastic travel crates for your animal’s well being. Make sure that your dog has enough room to stand up and stretch.
- Food and water: You don’t want to have to switch to a different brand of food because you run out in the middle of your trip for this may cause unnecessary stress for your dog. You don’t even know if clean water is available along the way. So the moral of the story is: bring enough food and water.
- Your animal’s blanket and favorite toys: Well, dogs are just like kids; bringing his favorite toy and blankie will once again reduce your animal’s stress level.
- Leash and collar: Having these handy is always a good thing.
- Veterinary record: You never know when you might need them.

Plan these things carefully so that you may make smooth transitions from your old to new residence. After all, moving should be a fun experience for you and your four-legged buddy!

Designer Dog Carriers With Personalized Dog Carrier Blankets Are Very Warm And Cozy

by Pet Care on January 27, 2009


Bearing in mind the exact desires of today’s’ dog lovers several websites and malls are promoting assortment of goods and Dog Carrier which can provide our dog a special and an ideal appearance. The amazing styles of Dog accessories and products which can be without doubt accessible are the dog beds, the designer dog dresses, the dog jewelry, the dog blankets, the dog bags, the dog carriers and several more things. Shopping online is the one of the most decisive shopping awareness these days because all the best brands and the best products all put on view on the websites all along with the stylish designs, features and cost? Reviewing by the requirements of the dog lovers almost all the foremost websites are aiming to offer enhanced services to the consumers with the dog accessories they are promoting and selling.

Rosalyn my daughter in no way has to overlook an occasion to catch up her puppy (Bratty) beside her whenever she is going out in the parties or even for a walk in the evenings in the park. Her puppy is her good companion and she every so often believes that she does not want someone else to accompany her. This time when she had accompanied me for shopping for her birthday she also thought of buying a Small pet carriers so that she could carry Bratty easily and stylishly in her birthday party. Rosalyn and I liked the Designer Dog Carrier Blankets very much because it was looking very beautiful and we were sure that Bratty would feel very cozy and comfy in it. A lovely and a comfy type of blanket could also be placed in the carrier so that Bratty would feel more peaceful in it. The Personalized Dog Carrier Blankets was so beautifully designed that its appearance could easily draw anybody’s attention towards it because it was not designed in a normal way but it was designed and decorated with colorful ribbons and ruffles which were made with the best and soft quality of materials. This blanket could also be washed easily because it was light and made up of hygienic and spongy cotton fabric. The blanket was sized approximately 24.5 x 18”.

No wonder on her birthday Rosalyn was the happiest child in the party because she and her dear little Bratty were looking very pretty and they were the center of the attraction. Many of her friends were appreciating her dress and in excitement Rosalyn was going on introducing her sweet little friend Bratty to everyone present in the party who was placed very comfortably in the Small Dog Carriers. After the birthday party was over Rosalyn was telling me that this was her best party she had ever enjoyed than before and even I was contented that after shelling a few dollars my daughter was so happy. I would willingly try to fulfill her wishes in future also after all she is my only daughter

Dog Diabetes – Three Tips To Avoid It

by Pet Care on January 27, 2009


Diabetes

There are essentially 3 methods that might help prevent canine diabetes. This disease is one that you want to avoid so that he lives as long and healthy as possible. And although it’s rare, there are many dogs whose diabetes go into remission just by having their diet, supplementation, and exercise all in good order.

1. cut the carbs. Most dog foods sold in pet stores can have close to 98% carbs. By reducing the amount of carbs in your dog’s daily meals, this lower carb level can go a long way towards diabetes prevention.

The diet is very critical for dogs that are genetically at risk for diabetes. It is crucial that you study up on your dog breed and make sure that he is getting the right nutrients so that the gene which can store diabetes will not be triggered off.

Golden retrievers are amongst the most popular pets that dog owners have in the US. Unfortunately, many of these retrievers get diabetes because their owners did not do enough research for their breed type in order to get their diet correct from puppy hood.

2. Find the best vetnear you. talk to the vet about natural medicines. Many dog owners miss this very crucial dog diabetes prevention step. taking with organic products such as antioxidants and herbs for the immune system can make a large impact on preventing diabetes, especially for the dog breeds which are genetically at risk for this disease.

Flea medications and tick insecticides can also trigger diabetes from thetoxic state produced in the body. By keeping your dog clean of these chemicals and toxinsyou are helping his immune system stay healthy.

3. Exercise! It is sad to see so many dogs out there who develop canine diabetes that should never have in the first place had they been active and not become overweight. This of course is the direct responsibility of you, the dog owner. If your dog is inactive and gains weight, he can develop diabetes even if he is not a breed that is genetically at risk.

half and hour of brisk walking two to three times daily is all your dog calls for for optimum health and to keep him in good shape. If you can go jogging with your dog then that is even better. Having your dog swim is also a great option for exercise.

About house training dogs - useful tips from real life.

I Need A Dog Fence For My Dog

by Pet Care on January 26, 2009


You could have a small yard or a huge yard; it makes no difference to a dog, especially a curious puppy. They are all escape artists! Investing in a dog fence doesn’t only keep your dog safetly in your own yard and keeps them from running stray, but they also protect your pooch from other dogs that might be aggressive, sickly, or in heat. Keeping your dog inside a fence is just another responsibility as a pet owner. This is just one of the many dog supplies that you will need to purchase for your dog.

There are two types of fencing, and depending on your needs the decision is up to you! First off, you will want to assess what your budget for a fence is. Second, what size is your dog and what is their degree of strength? If your dog is a pup, then you will want to think about how large he or she will be at adult hood, and remember puppies grow pretty fast.

Some communities have regulations and restrictions on fences. So you will want to know those and last but not least, what are your expectations? If you have a pretty big budget and style is first on your mind, then you may want to go with the most decorative in fencing such as wrought iron, wood stockade, or masonry. These fences are sure to not only keep your beloved pet enclosed and protected but also will add to the beauty of your home. However, if budget is more important that style, then you might want to choose more practical choices such as chain link fence or standard farm type chain link. You can help your budget out if you purchase bulk dog treats, because you always save when you buy larger quantities.

Another type of fencing that is affordable is electronic fencing. Electronic fencing are special because they use a buried or hidden wire system. These fences use electric shocks to deter animals or people from crossing a boundary. The shocks can be set at a voltage that emits a shock that can be as low as causing mild to moderate discomfort or a higher shock that would be more of a painful stimulii. The most preferred that is both economical and stylish is a simple wooden constructed fence.

However if you live in a housing edition or community where they will only allow a non-visible style fencing, then go with the electronic fencing, and if you have a short haired dog you will want to pick up some dog sweaters to keep your dog warm while outside. Electronic Fence Warning: There are many cases when a dog that has a strong innate desire to chase an animal or a car will prod right through the invisible barrier while seemingly ignoring the warning beeps of the structure and ultimately absorbing the electronic shock that is initiated. Your dog may then be uninterested in reentering the yard after the chase is over. Another downside to electronic fencing is that they do not provide your dog with any protection from strangers or other animals from entering their area.

When you get to the construction phase, keep in mind a few tips : Consider the size of the spacing that runs between the bars or wires of a farm-type fence or iron fence. No owner wants to get their fence up and find that their puppy or dog has played Houdini and escaped because the spacing was too wide.Consider also the design in connection with your dog’s climbing abilities.

Breeds such as Pit-Bulls, Huskies, and other dogs similar will need fences that cannot be climbed over or easily knocked down, chewed or clawed. In this circumstance, here is a good rule to follow: 5 ½ to 6 foot tall stockade fence or masonry wall. This construction will also help prevent your dog from seeing through to other properties and other dogs, which could lead to territorial behavior problems.