By Jonathon Scully
In recent years, the Australian Bureau of Statistics reported that almost 38% of Australian families own a dog and 27% own a cat. Out of these, 75% consider their pet to be part of the family. Sometimes, letting pets have the run of the garden means letting the garden or lawn suffer. In this article, I give you some tips on how you can have a happy and healthy pet as well as a lush and healthy lawn.
Burn Spots
If you have a dog and a lawn, then you've probably also had 'Burn Spots'. These are the ugly yellow spots caused from your dog's urine killing the grass. The nitrogen in your dog's urine causes the problem and it is more common in households with large female dogs. Here are a few things you can do to alleviate this problem: -
Try training your dog to urinate in a specified area.
If your dog doesn't want to do this, try watering down the area as soon possible after the dog has urinated, as this will dilute the nitrogen levels.
Heavily watering the brown spots will flush the area and help the healthy grass around the spots to grow and replace the dead grass.
Adjust your dogs diet slightly to reduce the nitrogen levels. A high protein diet can do this but discuss this change with your veterinary first.
Add water to your dog's food to dilute the nitrogen. Beware of commercial products that claim to solve the problem as they are often designed to make your dog thirstier. This causes them to drink more water but this can also result in unpleasant side affects.
Burn spots will be a bigger problem in a lawn that is fertilized more regularly - try to water the full lawn for a few days after fertilising.
Some grasses are more sensitive to nitrogen. If you're thinking of replanting, try using a tougher more durable grass such as fescue. Clover lawns are also recommended, as clover doesn't stain the same way grass does after being subjected to dog urine.
Pets and Lawn Care
All good lawns need some maintenance to keep them looking good. We all know how dogs love to roll, play and sometimes eat grass. The pest control, fertilisers or other products that you apply to your lawn can be dangerous for your pet. Follow these tips to ensure you keep your lawn and your pets healthy at the same time.
Never over-apply a product and always follow the manufacturers instructions.
Do not apply lawn pest control on a windy day.
Do not apply lawn pest control when pets are nearby.
Remove feeding and watering bowls when applying pest control or any similar product.
Do not put food directly on lawn after applying any product.
Do not apply a product near your dog's bedding or kennel. It is best to remove these before applying.
If a product is liquid, wait until it is dry before allowing your pets near the lawn.
Always store pesticides out of reach of pets.
Be careful to keep pesticides out of reach of pets when you are applying them.
If possible choose pet friendly fertilizers and weed killers.
Lawn Wear and Tear
Dogs love to sniff out every corner of their property and especially love to patrol all areas again and again and again. Some dogs will spend hours every day running a path around the edge of the garden making sure there are no intruders in their territory! This results in dusty paths where grass cannot get a chance to grow. Here are some tips on how to avoid these tracks.
Redirect the dog by using a temporary fence giving the grass a chance to regrow
Consider paving a path where the most permanent trails are, for example between the kennel and back door or from the back door to the clothesline.
Move the dog's bed or kennel regularly. This will reduce the likelihood of them wearing a path to their bed everyday.
Grow plants around the bottom of your fencing so that your dog will not run in circles next to the fence listening for noises at the other side.
Put items such as an outdoor seat of garden furniture in the way to block the path on a well-used trail.
Walk your dog regularly so that most of their time spent in the garden is sleeping!
Written by Jonathon Scully, Turfco www.turfco.com.au
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Christmas Pet Gift Shopping
By Chelsea Gough
Almost all dog and cat owners purchase their pets Christmas pet gifts. Pets are family, so it only makes sense that we not leave them out during the holidays. If you are shopping for friends, it is very thoughtful to purchase for their pets. If you are looking for gift ideas for your dog or cat, there are many to choose from.
If you have kids, most likely they have a Christmas stocking. Why not include your dog or cat in the Christmas stocking tradition? Stockings are an ideal pet gift. If you are on the go, you can find a pre-made cat or dog Christmas stocking filled with treats or with toys. If you have the time, you can fill your own cat or dog Christmas stocking with a variety of his favorite treats and toys. You can even stuff your pets stocking with homemade dog treats or homemade cat treats. They are easy to bake while baking Christmas cookies!
Pet Christmas stockings come in a variety of shapes sizes and colors. Consider a plush paw shaped Christmas pet stocking. Or a personalized stocking with your pet's photo.
Aside from stockings as pet gifts, Christmas time may be the perfect time to splurge on a dog bed or automatic pet feeder. It does not hurt to buy a gift for your pet that benefits you as well. Automatic feeders save time and effort. Pet beds can deter your pet from your furniture.
A pet gift store will generally add Christmas themed clothing near the holidays. A Christmas sweater is yet another great Christmas pet gift idea, one that can be worn year after year.
Happy shopping!!
Almost all dog and cat owners purchase their pets Christmas pet gifts. Pets are family, so it only makes sense that we not leave them out during the holidays. If you are shopping for friends, it is very thoughtful to purchase for their pets. If you are looking for gift ideas for your dog or cat, there are many to choose from.
If you have kids, most likely they have a Christmas stocking. Why not include your dog or cat in the Christmas stocking tradition? Stockings are an ideal pet gift. If you are on the go, you can find a pre-made cat or dog Christmas stocking filled with treats or with toys. If you have the time, you can fill your own cat or dog Christmas stocking with a variety of his favorite treats and toys. You can even stuff your pets stocking with homemade dog treats or homemade cat treats. They are easy to bake while baking Christmas cookies!
Pet Christmas stockings come in a variety of shapes sizes and colors. Consider a plush paw shaped Christmas pet stocking. Or a personalized stocking with your pet's photo.
Aside from stockings as pet gifts, Christmas time may be the perfect time to splurge on a dog bed or automatic pet feeder. It does not hurt to buy a gift for your pet that benefits you as well. Automatic feeders save time and effort. Pet beds can deter your pet from your furniture.
A pet gift store will generally add Christmas themed clothing near the holidays. A Christmas sweater is yet another great Christmas pet gift idea, one that can be worn year after year.
Happy shopping!!
Sunday, November 25, 2007
Senility in Dogs and Cats
By Elyse Grau
It is sad to see our beloved dogs and cats grow old. While physical changes in aging pets may be obvious, mental changes may be misunderstood. This article will help you understand your older dog or cat.
Some dogs as they reach old age may exhibit a number of behavioral changes linked to senility. This condition is now commonly called Canine Cognitive Dysfunction, or Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome. While this syndrome is recognized in dogs, it has not been scientifically established in cats.
Canine Cognitive Dysfunction shows signs in four distinct ways. They are disorientation, interaction with people, activity level and sleep, and house-training. Any combination of symptoms may be apparent.
Disorientation can be seen as an animal that wanders aimlessly, gets stuck in corners, stands at the wrong side of a door or appears not to recognize people or familiar commands and words. Changes in interaction with people include seeking more or less attention than normal, not wanting to be petted, and not responding to his or her name. Activity level and sleep changes show in such behaviors as sleeping more during the day and less at night, barking for no reason, forgetting meal times, and wandering aimlessly.
House training changes are obvious - things as urinating in the house, not asking to go outside or forgetting why they are there when they do go out. This is not the same as incontinence, which is usually a physical problem.
Cats may show some of these same signs, though they are often more subtle. There are also a number of other reasons for behavior changes in both dogs and cats. No syndrome has yet been recognized in cats.
Chronic pain can cause be another cause of changes in behavior, in particular activities such as pacing or not sleeping at night. Cats may show a marked decrease in activity. Hyperthyroidism and other hormonal disorders in cats can also cause changes, especially those involving eating patterns or aggression. Medications can cause changes in behavior as well, as can many other diseases and medical conditions. Cats are also prone to small strokes, which can cause changes such as walking into walls, or appearing disorientated. A thorough medical exam with blood work will be necessary in order to determine if your pet has a cognitive disorder due to aging.
There is also a syndrome called societal dissociative disorder, which is similar to CDS and is caused by loss of senses such as hearing and sight. Loss of one sense can often be compensated for by using another. Animals will do this instinctively, but we can also use this knowledge in our interaction with them. For example, when training your dogs they can be taught hand signals as well as verbal commands. As long as they are reinforced throughout the dogs life, the hand signals will be in place should an older dog lose its hearing.
For a dog or cat that has lost some or all of its sight, you can help him cope by not moving furniture or making any major changes in his environment. If the animal has lost both hearing and sight, you may still be able to communicate with it by using vibrations, such as stomping on the floor near the pet.
You can also help your pet through these times by being aware of the causes of its behavior, and by not taking it personally or punishing the animal for inappropriate acts. You can offer extra attention and reassurance. Try to keep a consistent schedule, and to not make a lot of physical changes in the dog or cat's environment.
Medications are available to deal with some symptoms, but there are natural options you can use. The use of flower essences, aromatherapy, herbs and touch therapy can all be helpful in keeping your dog or cat free of anxiety.
Elyse is the founder of The Original Dog Biscuit Company. She has extensive knowledge of pet nutrition and feeding, as well as practical experience in the raising of cats, dogs and other animals. She is also a herbalist, specializing in animals.
For more information on your pet's health and behavior, check out all of her articles at: http://www.pethealthresource.com
It is sad to see our beloved dogs and cats grow old. While physical changes in aging pets may be obvious, mental changes may be misunderstood. This article will help you understand your older dog or cat.
Some dogs as they reach old age may exhibit a number of behavioral changes linked to senility. This condition is now commonly called Canine Cognitive Dysfunction, or Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome. While this syndrome is recognized in dogs, it has not been scientifically established in cats.
Canine Cognitive Dysfunction shows signs in four distinct ways. They are disorientation, interaction with people, activity level and sleep, and house-training. Any combination of symptoms may be apparent.
Disorientation can be seen as an animal that wanders aimlessly, gets stuck in corners, stands at the wrong side of a door or appears not to recognize people or familiar commands and words. Changes in interaction with people include seeking more or less attention than normal, not wanting to be petted, and not responding to his or her name. Activity level and sleep changes show in such behaviors as sleeping more during the day and less at night, barking for no reason, forgetting meal times, and wandering aimlessly.
House training changes are obvious - things as urinating in the house, not asking to go outside or forgetting why they are there when they do go out. This is not the same as incontinence, which is usually a physical problem.
Cats may show some of these same signs, though they are often more subtle. There are also a number of other reasons for behavior changes in both dogs and cats. No syndrome has yet been recognized in cats.
Chronic pain can cause be another cause of changes in behavior, in particular activities such as pacing or not sleeping at night. Cats may show a marked decrease in activity. Hyperthyroidism and other hormonal disorders in cats can also cause changes, especially those involving eating patterns or aggression. Medications can cause changes in behavior as well, as can many other diseases and medical conditions. Cats are also prone to small strokes, which can cause changes such as walking into walls, or appearing disorientated. A thorough medical exam with blood work will be necessary in order to determine if your pet has a cognitive disorder due to aging.
There is also a syndrome called societal dissociative disorder, which is similar to CDS and is caused by loss of senses such as hearing and sight. Loss of one sense can often be compensated for by using another. Animals will do this instinctively, but we can also use this knowledge in our interaction with them. For example, when training your dogs they can be taught hand signals as well as verbal commands. As long as they are reinforced throughout the dogs life, the hand signals will be in place should an older dog lose its hearing.
For a dog or cat that has lost some or all of its sight, you can help him cope by not moving furniture or making any major changes in his environment. If the animal has lost both hearing and sight, you may still be able to communicate with it by using vibrations, such as stomping on the floor near the pet.
You can also help your pet through these times by being aware of the causes of its behavior, and by not taking it personally or punishing the animal for inappropriate acts. You can offer extra attention and reassurance. Try to keep a consistent schedule, and to not make a lot of physical changes in the dog or cat's environment.
Medications are available to deal with some symptoms, but there are natural options you can use. The use of flower essences, aromatherapy, herbs and touch therapy can all be helpful in keeping your dog or cat free of anxiety.
Elyse is the founder of The Original Dog Biscuit Company. She has extensive knowledge of pet nutrition and feeding, as well as practical experience in the raising of cats, dogs and other animals. She is also a herbalist, specializing in animals.
For more information on your pet's health and behavior, check out all of her articles at: http://www.pethealthresource.com
Friday, November 23, 2007
When Animals Escape! Tips On Keeping Your Animals In-Doors
By Jeff Swett
Cats and dogs love to be outside. Heck, we all love to be outside, but some of our pets have a tendency to be escape artists at the mere chance to sneak away.
Our fellow apartmentite, KHouse, shared a story with me about how her cat, Snowball, loves to leap over the patio railing or even squeeze under it when she is left alone on the patio for just a couple of seconds. Thankfully, she lives on the first floor, so the cat doesn't have much of a fall. Apparently, though, getting the cat back over the railing and into the apartment is quite the challenge as Snowballdini will cower in a corner and hiss and mew anytime you get close to her.
My mother had a dog who would bolt out the front door anytime my grandmother opened it because he knew she was too slow to stop him. It was amazing to watch, but very tiring to chase him down. You would have thought that animal was on some sort of performance enhancer.
So, what steps can you take to prevent your pets from escaping your apartment?
On the patio, you want to create a barrier without sacrificing the looks. Stapling some chicken wire across the bottom would serve the purpose splendidly, but would look really trashy. Plus any loose ends in the wire could be sharp and may harm you or the animal. An alternative would be to take a 1 x 6 piece of strip wood and place that along the bottom to block the escape area. Then run potted plants in front of it to hide the bored look of the board. Heck, you could even paint and decorate the wood if you wanted. Just don't leave it looking like a plank. That's almost worse than chicken wire.
Regarding the top railing...cats like to jump. That's a certainty. The best way to prevent a cat from leaping onto something is to place items there that block their landing. They're smart. Most cats will see this and won't take the leap. Potted plants work great along the railing and should take up enough space to keep them from leaping. Almost anything will work, just make sure it looks good. Remember not to sacrifice your style. How your apartment looks, is a reflection of you...so are your pets, so that's a delicate balance.
The easiest and one of the most common solutions to keeping dogs from running out of the front door or running into rooms that they aren't allowed to, is putting up a baby gate. No dog owner should ever be without one of these. Even when you are training them as puppies, a baby gate comes in handy for keeping the little un-potty trained puppies in the kitchen, laundry room, or bathroom and off of the carpet. If you want to give your dog some fresh air, but don't want him running out of the door, just throw up a baby gate and let them hang out right there soaking up the sun. They don't look bad either!
There are number of methods and tips out there to help prevent the unfortunate event of an escape artist pet. Losing a pet is always a very saddening experience, so please take these tips and apply them or find something to keep your little lovable creatures in your apartment. If you know any great tips, please send them my way so that I can share them with your fellow apartmentite pet lovers.
Jeff's just a regular guy with a funny goatee that really enjoys people and life. On top of that he is a bit of an expert on apartments, living in them, and getting the most out of the apartment living lifestyle.
As a Managing Partner of Apartment Home Living, Jeff wants to help you find the right apartment by getting to know you. Not only where you want to live & what you want to pay, but what you like. This way, we can help you find an apartment that fits your personality, not just your budget.
At AHL Apartmentites have a platform to share their own stories, get great info & tips on apartment living, read Jeff's entertaining blogs/stories, find Answers to a wide array of apartment related questions, and have a ton of fun sharing their love of apartment living with others. Don't forget to go and set up your own MyPlace page to really get the full Apartmentite experience!
Cats and dogs love to be outside. Heck, we all love to be outside, but some of our pets have a tendency to be escape artists at the mere chance to sneak away.
Our fellow apartmentite, KHouse, shared a story with me about how her cat, Snowball, loves to leap over the patio railing or even squeeze under it when she is left alone on the patio for just a couple of seconds. Thankfully, she lives on the first floor, so the cat doesn't have much of a fall. Apparently, though, getting the cat back over the railing and into the apartment is quite the challenge as Snowballdini will cower in a corner and hiss and mew anytime you get close to her.
My mother had a dog who would bolt out the front door anytime my grandmother opened it because he knew she was too slow to stop him. It was amazing to watch, but very tiring to chase him down. You would have thought that animal was on some sort of performance enhancer.
So, what steps can you take to prevent your pets from escaping your apartment?
On the patio, you want to create a barrier without sacrificing the looks. Stapling some chicken wire across the bottom would serve the purpose splendidly, but would look really trashy. Plus any loose ends in the wire could be sharp and may harm you or the animal. An alternative would be to take a 1 x 6 piece of strip wood and place that along the bottom to block the escape area. Then run potted plants in front of it to hide the bored look of the board. Heck, you could even paint and decorate the wood if you wanted. Just don't leave it looking like a plank. That's almost worse than chicken wire.
Regarding the top railing...cats like to jump. That's a certainty. The best way to prevent a cat from leaping onto something is to place items there that block their landing. They're smart. Most cats will see this and won't take the leap. Potted plants work great along the railing and should take up enough space to keep them from leaping. Almost anything will work, just make sure it looks good. Remember not to sacrifice your style. How your apartment looks, is a reflection of you...so are your pets, so that's a delicate balance.
The easiest and one of the most common solutions to keeping dogs from running out of the front door or running into rooms that they aren't allowed to, is putting up a baby gate. No dog owner should ever be without one of these. Even when you are training them as puppies, a baby gate comes in handy for keeping the little un-potty trained puppies in the kitchen, laundry room, or bathroom and off of the carpet. If you want to give your dog some fresh air, but don't want him running out of the door, just throw up a baby gate and let them hang out right there soaking up the sun. They don't look bad either!
There are number of methods and tips out there to help prevent the unfortunate event of an escape artist pet. Losing a pet is always a very saddening experience, so please take these tips and apply them or find something to keep your little lovable creatures in your apartment. If you know any great tips, please send them my way so that I can share them with your fellow apartmentite pet lovers.
Jeff's just a regular guy with a funny goatee that really enjoys people and life. On top of that he is a bit of an expert on apartments, living in them, and getting the most out of the apartment living lifestyle.
As a Managing Partner of Apartment Home Living, Jeff wants to help you find the right apartment by getting to know you. Not only where you want to live & what you want to pay, but what you like. This way, we can help you find an apartment that fits your personality, not just your budget.
At AHL Apartmentites have a platform to share their own stories, get great info & tips on apartment living, read Jeff's entertaining blogs/stories, find Answers to a wide array of apartment related questions, and have a ton of fun sharing their love of apartment living with others. Don't forget to go and set up your own MyPlace page to really get the full Apartmentite experience!
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
How Animal Rescue Creates Positive Impacts For Both Pets And Humans
By Melissa Turner
Animal rescue programs are often wonderful and beneficial organizations that help find loving homes for misplaced, mistreated, stray and unwanted pets. Without local animal rescues, America would be facing many more issues relating to stray cats and dogs than they do today.
The general purpose in animal rescue organizations is primarily to work hard in order to save the lives of pets in need. Sometimes, pets that have been in the shelter for too long are eligible for euthanization, and these organizations desire to see no animal euthanized. Rescue shelters strive to keep these loving pets alive, as they look for new caring families to take a new pet into their home.
There are many different kinds of rescue groups out there for different kinds of pets. For example, there is rabbit, bird, and there is even a squirrel rescue group! The primary kinds are cat and dog organizations. Some have branches for specific breeds, such as Golden Retrievers, large dog, or working dog rescue.
These organizations normally work closely with animal shelters. Animal rescue organizations will normally accept pets from shelters or pet adoption agencies that have been there too long and have worn out their welcome. Sometimes when a shelter is unable to find a home, an organization can. If for some reason it takes a good amount of time for a dog or cat to be adopted, animal rescues usually have a list of many foster families who are willing to take the pet into their own loving home until an adoption family can be found.
Animal rescue organizations primarily depend on donations and fund-raisers as their money source. They also depend heavily on caring volunteers who keep things running smoothly and in an orderly fashion. They also have foster family volunteers, who make a large difference in the lives of pets everyday by accepting these unfortunate animals into their homes.
While animals are staying at the local rescues, they often benefit greatly. Many rescues give the pets health attention, such as spaying or neutering, vaccinations, disease prevention medication, and other medical attention that might be necessary. These pets also often play with volunteers, doing things such as catch, tug-o-war, or simply running around and getting along with other dogs. Many times these pets undergo training sessions as well, so that when a caring family receives their new pet, they have little to worry about; they are getting a healthy, happy, and house-trained pet as a new addition into the family. They are also saving a valuable life in the process of animal adoption through a rescue group.
Because of these non-profit volunteer organizations, hundreds of animal lives have been saved annually by being rescued and then transferred into a loving new home. Without the faithful work of these volunteers, these organizations would not be possible. If you are interested in getting involved in your community, animal rescue is a wonderful way to help by donating your time or finances. Help your community, and help save precious animal lives by supporting your local animal rescue organization.
This article brought to you by http://www.dog-fence.org
Visit us for valuable information on how to keep your pet safe from avoidable accidents. Discover the benefits of dog fences today!
Animal rescue programs are often wonderful and beneficial organizations that help find loving homes for misplaced, mistreated, stray and unwanted pets. Without local animal rescues, America would be facing many more issues relating to stray cats and dogs than they do today.
The general purpose in animal rescue organizations is primarily to work hard in order to save the lives of pets in need. Sometimes, pets that have been in the shelter for too long are eligible for euthanization, and these organizations desire to see no animal euthanized. Rescue shelters strive to keep these loving pets alive, as they look for new caring families to take a new pet into their home.
There are many different kinds of rescue groups out there for different kinds of pets. For example, there is rabbit, bird, and there is even a squirrel rescue group! The primary kinds are cat and dog organizations. Some have branches for specific breeds, such as Golden Retrievers, large dog, or working dog rescue.
These organizations normally work closely with animal shelters. Animal rescue organizations will normally accept pets from shelters or pet adoption agencies that have been there too long and have worn out their welcome. Sometimes when a shelter is unable to find a home, an organization can. If for some reason it takes a good amount of time for a dog or cat to be adopted, animal rescues usually have a list of many foster families who are willing to take the pet into their own loving home until an adoption family can be found.
Animal rescue organizations primarily depend on donations and fund-raisers as their money source. They also depend heavily on caring volunteers who keep things running smoothly and in an orderly fashion. They also have foster family volunteers, who make a large difference in the lives of pets everyday by accepting these unfortunate animals into their homes.
While animals are staying at the local rescues, they often benefit greatly. Many rescues give the pets health attention, such as spaying or neutering, vaccinations, disease prevention medication, and other medical attention that might be necessary. These pets also often play with volunteers, doing things such as catch, tug-o-war, or simply running around and getting along with other dogs. Many times these pets undergo training sessions as well, so that when a caring family receives their new pet, they have little to worry about; they are getting a healthy, happy, and house-trained pet as a new addition into the family. They are also saving a valuable life in the process of animal adoption through a rescue group.
Because of these non-profit volunteer organizations, hundreds of animal lives have been saved annually by being rescued and then transferred into a loving new home. Without the faithful work of these volunteers, these organizations would not be possible. If you are interested in getting involved in your community, animal rescue is a wonderful way to help by donating your time or finances. Help your community, and help save precious animal lives by supporting your local animal rescue organization.
This article brought to you by http://www.dog-fence.org
Visit us for valuable information on how to keep your pet safe from avoidable accidents. Discover the benefits of dog fences today!
Monday, November 19, 2007
Pets Can Help Keep The Doctor Away
By Judy Porter
A pet makes a great friend. We love our pets and that is why we have them. We know that pets can make us feel better. When you get home from work, school, or are retired, or elderly, pet owners quite literally feel and see the love from their favorite dog or cat. Living with a pet can provide you with certain health benefits. Pets help to reduce your blood pressure and lessen anxiety. Pet owners health and well-being are linked together in owning a pet or have a pet visit you in the nursing home or hospital.
When selecting a pet it is important that your pet fits your lifestyle or otherwise your new pet could add more stress. Pets require our love and attention. Going out for a walk, playing Frisbee or hide and seek provides the incentive to owners to interact and get out of the house. You benefit from the fresh air, sunshine and exercise that you might not get on our own. However, what if you can't take care of your pet? If this is the case, then pet therapy might be the way to go.
Therapy pets are animals that help humans just by visiting them. Animal Assisted Therapy is the term used to describe therapy pets. One pet is assigned to one patient. Nursing home personnel and the pet handler help to figure out ways that therapy will be best suited to the patient. Cats and dogs are the most suitable therapy pets but there is no reason why other pets can't be trained for pet therapy as well.
Owning a pet can have medical benefits to patients in nursing homes and hospitals, and as well as pet owners. Pet owners, or pet therapy encourages social interaction, reduces stress levels, boosts self-confidence and self-esteem and encourages you to exercise. In addition, pet owners who live alone are less lonely because of their pets' companionship.
Pets and elderly people have a lot to give one another. Pet owners give them a sense of purpose; a reason to get up in the morning, buying food and or going outside, which helps to motivate them to eat and to get enough sleep and exercise.
Pet owner's have fewer doctors' visits, improve your mental well being, and improve you cardiovascular health and lowers you blood pressure. Many people have high blood pressure for years without knowing it. There are no known symptoms that you can tell your doctor.
Uncontrolled high blood pressure can lead to a stroke, heart attack, congestive heart failure or kidney failure. The only way to discover if you have high blood pressure is to have your doctor check it. This is why it is often called the silent killer. If you have high blood pressure, you should think about getting a dog or cat as they can help reduce health problems. Owning a dog or cat and stroking them can help to reduce blood pressure and even keep it lower under stressful situations.
Pet owners have better emotional health and mental wellness while caring for their furry friend. Pets can act as a support system for people who live alone or do not have family, or close friends nearby. They offer unconditional love and affection and that alone helps a person reduce loneliness.
When you are in a hospital or nursing home and a pet owner comes to visit you with their furry friend, you feel a little less lonely and depressed and can forget about your illness, even for a little while. Patients tend to be more receptive to treatment when they have regular visits from their favorite furry friend. The need to care for their pet gives them reason to recover and the will to live. It, also, makes the patient happy to have something to look forward to when visiting hours are over.
Having a pet is a great investment, not only because a dog or cat bring joy and pleasure into your life, but the many health benefits that come along with owning a pet. Though a dog or cat can't replace human relationships for senior citizens, they can certainly enhance them and fill an older person's life with years of constant, unconditional love. Pet owners have long known that owning a family pet can make life happier, and can lead to a longer healthier life.
Article by Judy Porter, contributing writer for http://www.petpeoplefishing.com, a free online dating service for pet loving singles. PetPeopleFishing knows the importance of finding a match who can accept your animal companions and not see them as barriers to your relationship.
A pet makes a great friend. We love our pets and that is why we have them. We know that pets can make us feel better. When you get home from work, school, or are retired, or elderly, pet owners quite literally feel and see the love from their favorite dog or cat. Living with a pet can provide you with certain health benefits. Pets help to reduce your blood pressure and lessen anxiety. Pet owners health and well-being are linked together in owning a pet or have a pet visit you in the nursing home or hospital.
When selecting a pet it is important that your pet fits your lifestyle or otherwise your new pet could add more stress. Pets require our love and attention. Going out for a walk, playing Frisbee or hide and seek provides the incentive to owners to interact and get out of the house. You benefit from the fresh air, sunshine and exercise that you might not get on our own. However, what if you can't take care of your pet? If this is the case, then pet therapy might be the way to go.
Therapy pets are animals that help humans just by visiting them. Animal Assisted Therapy is the term used to describe therapy pets. One pet is assigned to one patient. Nursing home personnel and the pet handler help to figure out ways that therapy will be best suited to the patient. Cats and dogs are the most suitable therapy pets but there is no reason why other pets can't be trained for pet therapy as well.
Owning a pet can have medical benefits to patients in nursing homes and hospitals, and as well as pet owners. Pet owners, or pet therapy encourages social interaction, reduces stress levels, boosts self-confidence and self-esteem and encourages you to exercise. In addition, pet owners who live alone are less lonely because of their pets' companionship.
Pets and elderly people have a lot to give one another. Pet owners give them a sense of purpose; a reason to get up in the morning, buying food and or going outside, which helps to motivate them to eat and to get enough sleep and exercise.
Pet owner's have fewer doctors' visits, improve your mental well being, and improve you cardiovascular health and lowers you blood pressure. Many people have high blood pressure for years without knowing it. There are no known symptoms that you can tell your doctor.
Uncontrolled high blood pressure can lead to a stroke, heart attack, congestive heart failure or kidney failure. The only way to discover if you have high blood pressure is to have your doctor check it. This is why it is often called the silent killer. If you have high blood pressure, you should think about getting a dog or cat as they can help reduce health problems. Owning a dog or cat and stroking them can help to reduce blood pressure and even keep it lower under stressful situations.
Pet owners have better emotional health and mental wellness while caring for their furry friend. Pets can act as a support system for people who live alone or do not have family, or close friends nearby. They offer unconditional love and affection and that alone helps a person reduce loneliness.
When you are in a hospital or nursing home and a pet owner comes to visit you with their furry friend, you feel a little less lonely and depressed and can forget about your illness, even for a little while. Patients tend to be more receptive to treatment when they have regular visits from their favorite furry friend. The need to care for their pet gives them reason to recover and the will to live. It, also, makes the patient happy to have something to look forward to when visiting hours are over.
Having a pet is a great investment, not only because a dog or cat bring joy and pleasure into your life, but the many health benefits that come along with owning a pet. Though a dog or cat can't replace human relationships for senior citizens, they can certainly enhance them and fill an older person's life with years of constant, unconditional love. Pet owners have long known that owning a family pet can make life happier, and can lead to a longer healthier life.
Article by Judy Porter, contributing writer for http://www.petpeoplefishing.com, a free online dating service for pet loving singles. PetPeopleFishing knows the importance of finding a match who can accept your animal companions and not see them as barriers to your relationship.
Saturday, November 17, 2007
How to Care for Your Pet Rabbit
By Chris Emmerson
A rabbits ear is not a handle, when you pick them up this way it hurts, so it is instinct for them to kick and scratch. The rabbit has always been a prey animal, think how many creatures want to kill them for food, including some humans (not me I hasten to add).
So what would you do if you were in this position, someone came along grabbed you by the ears and tried to lift you, no doubt you would kick and scream and try to hurt them in some way so you could escape.
* That is exactly what the pet is trying to do escape, the tighter you grip him the harder he will struggle to get free.
* Don't do it show a bit of respect.
I get a lot of kids say to me, my rabbit does not like me to pick him up, "even when they are doing it correctly". Of course they don't as I have said above they are prey animals it is instinct for them to escape.
If the animal is friendly and likes to be stroked he will come to you, he will lay down near you especially if you are on the floor. Then you are on his level, he can keep an eye on you, he knows you do not want to hurt him.
This way he will accept your touch, but don't force him he will try to run if you do.
* Eventually you will gain the rabbits trust.
* Some pet rabbits become amazingly friendly and will sit on your lap to be petted.
* But do not rush them.
They are related to the rodent family, one characteristic they have kept in common is their ability to chew on anything. But this is not destructive behaviour, your rabbit is doing what comes naturally, he has to keep gnawing on something because his teeth are always growing. If he has nothing to chew on to wear these teeth down, they will grow to much and yours could easily starve to death.
There are plenty of products you can buy so the rabbit can chew, look in your local pet shop or go online to find him some. They can be wooden toys or something like that, the rabbit loves to play, so he might as well wear his teeth down doing it. There are a lot of ailments that can make your pet rabbit ill, but one of the nastiest is fly attack. The man has gone crazy, fly attack he is talking rubbish.
Oh I am not, the fly will lay eggs on your rabbit, these in turn will change into maggots and the maggot will bore into the animals skin causing lots of problems. Most s can combat this trouble, if they are fit enough to groom themselves properly. But youngsters and old rabbits might not be able to clean their fur enough then it becomes a major issue.
In the worst case they can be that damaged by maggots, the kindest thing to do is get them put down. Not a pleasant thought the kids would be devastated. So what can you do vigilance is the keyword here, check the rabbit daily look for any sores or cuts this will be an easy entrance to a fly. If there is any open wounds get your vet to have a look.
One of the ways to stop this fly attack is to fit fly screens to the hutch and the rabbits runs. You can buy a treatment to apply on to them back end to stop fly eggs hatching, but this is not a cure all, you have got to check bunny everyday. I hope I have not put you off the idea of keeping rabbits as pets, they can be delightful creatures, just be ahead of the game and check the pet out on a regular basis.
Chris Emmerson full of aches pains and woes but sorry folks still around contrary to some folks wishes.
Why don't you pop over to my site http://www.bulldogsandallpets.com, have a look around folks I am sure you will find something to interest you, don't worry its not all to do with bulldogs.
A rabbits ear is not a handle, when you pick them up this way it hurts, so it is instinct for them to kick and scratch. The rabbit has always been a prey animal, think how many creatures want to kill them for food, including some humans (not me I hasten to add).
So what would you do if you were in this position, someone came along grabbed you by the ears and tried to lift you, no doubt you would kick and scream and try to hurt them in some way so you could escape.
* That is exactly what the pet is trying to do escape, the tighter you grip him the harder he will struggle to get free.
* Don't do it show a bit of respect.
I get a lot of kids say to me, my rabbit does not like me to pick him up, "even when they are doing it correctly". Of course they don't as I have said above they are prey animals it is instinct for them to escape.
If the animal is friendly and likes to be stroked he will come to you, he will lay down near you especially if you are on the floor. Then you are on his level, he can keep an eye on you, he knows you do not want to hurt him.
This way he will accept your touch, but don't force him he will try to run if you do.
* Eventually you will gain the rabbits trust.
* Some pet rabbits become amazingly friendly and will sit on your lap to be petted.
* But do not rush them.
They are related to the rodent family, one characteristic they have kept in common is their ability to chew on anything. But this is not destructive behaviour, your rabbit is doing what comes naturally, he has to keep gnawing on something because his teeth are always growing. If he has nothing to chew on to wear these teeth down, they will grow to much and yours could easily starve to death.
There are plenty of products you can buy so the rabbit can chew, look in your local pet shop or go online to find him some. They can be wooden toys or something like that, the rabbit loves to play, so he might as well wear his teeth down doing it. There are a lot of ailments that can make your pet rabbit ill, but one of the nastiest is fly attack. The man has gone crazy, fly attack he is talking rubbish.
Oh I am not, the fly will lay eggs on your rabbit, these in turn will change into maggots and the maggot will bore into the animals skin causing lots of problems. Most s can combat this trouble, if they are fit enough to groom themselves properly. But youngsters and old rabbits might not be able to clean their fur enough then it becomes a major issue.
In the worst case they can be that damaged by maggots, the kindest thing to do is get them put down. Not a pleasant thought the kids would be devastated. So what can you do vigilance is the keyword here, check the rabbit daily look for any sores or cuts this will be an easy entrance to a fly. If there is any open wounds get your vet to have a look.
One of the ways to stop this fly attack is to fit fly screens to the hutch and the rabbits runs. You can buy a treatment to apply on to them back end to stop fly eggs hatching, but this is not a cure all, you have got to check bunny everyday. I hope I have not put you off the idea of keeping rabbits as pets, they can be delightful creatures, just be ahead of the game and check the pet out on a regular basis.
Chris Emmerson full of aches pains and woes but sorry folks still around contrary to some folks wishes.
Why don't you pop over to my site http://www.bulldogsandallpets.com, have a look around folks I am sure you will find something to interest you, don't worry its not all to do with bulldogs.
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Loving Your Pet Sometimes Means Giving Yourself Heartache
By Barry Mcgee
Why do people give pets up? There are any number of reasons that people give animals to pet shelters. One is that they had an unexpected litter due to not having their animals spayed or neutered. Another reason is because the owner got old and had to move into an assisted living facility, and so wasn't able to take care of the pet any more. Unfortunately, there are a lot of animals that find their way into the shelter because they became sick, and their owner was unable to pay their vet bill.
Animals are not always healthy. Just like people, they need regular check-ups and shots. There are times, however, when our animals become sick, and require extensive medicine or surgery in order to make them healthy again. Owners that give up their animals so that they can become healthy love their pets so much that they're willing to give them away to an uncertain future. Loving your pet sometimes means giving yourself heartache.
So what do you do when you've had to give a pet away, or have suffered a pet loss? You grieve. You mourn for your friend, and you grieve for their loss. One of the easier ways to work through the grief is to remember your pet. Tell stories about them to other people, so that you yourself can remember and laugh at the silly or sweet antics that they did.
Sometimes it is easier to share your thoughts with people online. It's a freeing experience, as most people online have been exactly where you are, and are able to understand where you are coming from. They will enjoy the stories as much as you will, and will be supportive when you are in a dark moment. Pet-loss-memorial.com is one place where you can share your memories, and work through your grief.
Article written by Barry Mcgee
Helping you cope, move forward, and cherish the memory of your loss pet at http://Pet-Loss-Memorial.com A Message From Rainbow Bridge
Why do people give pets up? There are any number of reasons that people give animals to pet shelters. One is that they had an unexpected litter due to not having their animals spayed or neutered. Another reason is because the owner got old and had to move into an assisted living facility, and so wasn't able to take care of the pet any more. Unfortunately, there are a lot of animals that find their way into the shelter because they became sick, and their owner was unable to pay their vet bill.
Animals are not always healthy. Just like people, they need regular check-ups and shots. There are times, however, when our animals become sick, and require extensive medicine or surgery in order to make them healthy again. Owners that give up their animals so that they can become healthy love their pets so much that they're willing to give them away to an uncertain future. Loving your pet sometimes means giving yourself heartache.
So what do you do when you've had to give a pet away, or have suffered a pet loss? You grieve. You mourn for your friend, and you grieve for their loss. One of the easier ways to work through the grief is to remember your pet. Tell stories about them to other people, so that you yourself can remember and laugh at the silly or sweet antics that they did.
Sometimes it is easier to share your thoughts with people online. It's a freeing experience, as most people online have been exactly where you are, and are able to understand where you are coming from. They will enjoy the stories as much as you will, and will be supportive when you are in a dark moment. Pet-loss-memorial.com is one place where you can share your memories, and work through your grief.
Article written by Barry Mcgee
Helping you cope, move forward, and cherish the memory of your loss pet at http://Pet-Loss-Memorial.com A Message From Rainbow Bridge
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
HealthyPetNet - Truth Behind Life's Abundance Premium Health Food
By Vern How Chan
Is HealthyPetNet The Natural Choice For Your Pet?
Many times this question may have popped up as a result of your research. Yes, those tiring pet food call backs and even worse your dog, cat or bird suffering from itchy skins. HealthyPetNet offers a solution to all this by providing premium pet food but before you make any decision, make sure you know the details. Even before you think about this business it always pays to dig a little deeper.
1) Brief Overview About Life's Abundance Pet Food
The core of HealthyPetNet and its products stems from the amazing Dr. Jane Bicks. She is responsible for all product formulation and development. Dr. Jane is also a nationally recognized holistic veterinarian with a history of serving for the Cornell Feline Health Center.
Despite having appeared in network television and cable programs; she is a still finds time to consult with pet industry experts to stay abreast of the latest trends.
2) Your Pets Choice Of Products
As a matter of fact, you might have also noticed that HealthyPetNet flagship products are Life's Abundance Premium Health Food. They claim that it consists of 3 sources of protein including chicken meal, fish meal and eggs are some of the ingredients from human-grade processing plants.
You can also find ranges that cover dogs, cats and even horses. Yes, birds included but perhaps the most common ingredient that could be seen to be included in the formulation is grape seed extract.
3) Another Business Opportunity?
You can choose to become a HealthyPetNet field representative at $19.95. Of course, this is just the starting cost. You would have to pay another $10.95 per month on the 2nd months onwards just to keep your website active.
Even though its not mentioned but you are "encouraged" to get the value pack for $199.95. Here's how it works. You get 30% commissions when you make retail sales. Then, because you are working in a network marketing system you can earn 5% - 12% for your downline levels 1 to 3.
Defining The Odds
While working in your HealthyPetNet business may be a fit for your passion but there is something else you need to know. Getting qualified downline will be challenging if you do not know the ins and outs of marketing online. It would be wise if you also choose to learn how to market your website effectively.
About The Author:
This article is the property of http://www.Simple-Riches.com - you may freely publish it on a website as long as it is not modified in any way. It must include the author bylines; all hyperlinks and URLs must be made or remain active.
Vern How has been earning online since June 2006. He is a professional affiliate marketer who believes in giving back by helping others.
To find out how Vern can help you work from home, visit his blog today at Online Marketing Business
For more information on a fool-proof strategy to profiting massively on the Internet, just check out your HealthyPetNet Online Marketing System!
Is HealthyPetNet The Natural Choice For Your Pet?
Many times this question may have popped up as a result of your research. Yes, those tiring pet food call backs and even worse your dog, cat or bird suffering from itchy skins. HealthyPetNet offers a solution to all this by providing premium pet food but before you make any decision, make sure you know the details. Even before you think about this business it always pays to dig a little deeper.
1) Brief Overview About Life's Abundance Pet Food
The core of HealthyPetNet and its products stems from the amazing Dr. Jane Bicks. She is responsible for all product formulation and development. Dr. Jane is also a nationally recognized holistic veterinarian with a history of serving for the Cornell Feline Health Center.
Despite having appeared in network television and cable programs; she is a still finds time to consult with pet industry experts to stay abreast of the latest trends.
2) Your Pets Choice Of Products
As a matter of fact, you might have also noticed that HealthyPetNet flagship products are Life's Abundance Premium Health Food. They claim that it consists of 3 sources of protein including chicken meal, fish meal and eggs are some of the ingredients from human-grade processing plants.
You can also find ranges that cover dogs, cats and even horses. Yes, birds included but perhaps the most common ingredient that could be seen to be included in the formulation is grape seed extract.
3) Another Business Opportunity?
You can choose to become a HealthyPetNet field representative at $19.95. Of course, this is just the starting cost. You would have to pay another $10.95 per month on the 2nd months onwards just to keep your website active.
Even though its not mentioned but you are "encouraged" to get the value pack for $199.95. Here's how it works. You get 30% commissions when you make retail sales. Then, because you are working in a network marketing system you can earn 5% - 12% for your downline levels 1 to 3.
Defining The Odds
While working in your HealthyPetNet business may be a fit for your passion but there is something else you need to know. Getting qualified downline will be challenging if you do not know the ins and outs of marketing online. It would be wise if you also choose to learn how to market your website effectively.
About The Author:
This article is the property of http://www.Simple-Riches.com - you may freely publish it on a website as long as it is not modified in any way. It must include the author bylines; all hyperlinks and URLs must be made or remain active.
Vern How has been earning online since June 2006. He is a professional affiliate marketer who believes in giving back by helping others.
To find out how Vern can help you work from home, visit his blog today at Online Marketing Business
For more information on a fool-proof strategy to profiting massively on the Internet, just check out your HealthyPetNet Online Marketing System!
Sunday, November 11, 2007
Are All Pet Foods The Same?
By Lori Matthews
Your dog is a part of your family and you want your pet to live a long and very healthy life. Your dog is always there for you, ready to play, snuggle, always loyal. Your pet relies on you, as their owner, to take care of them, give them a warm place to sleep, water to drink and healthy dog food to eat. They are not able to choose what is best for them.
Are you looking to buy the generic brand to save a few dollars? Are all dog foods the same? The answer is no, they're not. There are so many ingredients put into dog food that you can't even pronounce. Saving a few dollars now could cost you later at the vet's office when your baby starts to have some health issues. Surprisingly some premium pet foods are comparable in price because you actually feed less as they are more nutrient dense than their cheap counterparts. So many dog foods have mainly fillers that they label as protein. They are things such as soybean meal, corn meal, corn gluten meal, and maize wheat. These may be sources of protein, but they are not enough for your dog's health. They need meat.
There are also food colorings in dog food, and oddly enough, the dogs don't care what color the food is, all the marketing is for us, the pet owner. Food dyes can be made from chemicals. There have been many dog trainers that correlate food dye with hyperactive dogs, as it has been associated with hyperactive children. Chemical preservatives like BHA and BOT should not be on the ingredient list and should be avoided.
Another form the pet food manufacturers use is the by-product protein. These include necks, feet, intestines, lungs, ligaments, head and undeveloped eggs. Some pet foods contain no active cultures and other digestive aids. This is why some dogs have bloating, gas and bowel issues. Without this very important ingredient you pet might not be absorbing what nutrition is in the food! In the long run this can be very unhealthy.
The first ingredient should be a meat as it the most natural protein source for dogs. As do humans, animals benefit from fruits and vegetables and proper carbohydrate consumption. The free radicals that affect are health; affect your pet's health as well. That is why to neutralize them antioxidants are so important to have in their diet.
Nutrition or lack of can affect your dog's health which can include their coat, teeth, ears, nails, breath, energy and brain. Unfortunately it can also affect how long they live and the quality of life they live. All too many times I have seen dogs that have eaten not so healthy food. At first nothing seems wrong but just as humans if you keep eating "junk food" it will eventually show some sign of distress like high cholesterol, lack of energy, hair dry and falling out, bad teeth, moodiness, obesity and more.
Lori Matthews studies health, nutrition and wellness. She enjoys writing articles on health for both people and pets. Please visit healthy, quality dog food for more information.
Your dog is a part of your family and you want your pet to live a long and very healthy life. Your dog is always there for you, ready to play, snuggle, always loyal. Your pet relies on you, as their owner, to take care of them, give them a warm place to sleep, water to drink and healthy dog food to eat. They are not able to choose what is best for them.
Are you looking to buy the generic brand to save a few dollars? Are all dog foods the same? The answer is no, they're not. There are so many ingredients put into dog food that you can't even pronounce. Saving a few dollars now could cost you later at the vet's office when your baby starts to have some health issues. Surprisingly some premium pet foods are comparable in price because you actually feed less as they are more nutrient dense than their cheap counterparts. So many dog foods have mainly fillers that they label as protein. They are things such as soybean meal, corn meal, corn gluten meal, and maize wheat. These may be sources of protein, but they are not enough for your dog's health. They need meat.
There are also food colorings in dog food, and oddly enough, the dogs don't care what color the food is, all the marketing is for us, the pet owner. Food dyes can be made from chemicals. There have been many dog trainers that correlate food dye with hyperactive dogs, as it has been associated with hyperactive children. Chemical preservatives like BHA and BOT should not be on the ingredient list and should be avoided.
Another form the pet food manufacturers use is the by-product protein. These include necks, feet, intestines, lungs, ligaments, head and undeveloped eggs. Some pet foods contain no active cultures and other digestive aids. This is why some dogs have bloating, gas and bowel issues. Without this very important ingredient you pet might not be absorbing what nutrition is in the food! In the long run this can be very unhealthy.
The first ingredient should be a meat as it the most natural protein source for dogs. As do humans, animals benefit from fruits and vegetables and proper carbohydrate consumption. The free radicals that affect are health; affect your pet's health as well. That is why to neutralize them antioxidants are so important to have in their diet.
Nutrition or lack of can affect your dog's health which can include their coat, teeth, ears, nails, breath, energy and brain. Unfortunately it can also affect how long they live and the quality of life they live. All too many times I have seen dogs that have eaten not so healthy food. At first nothing seems wrong but just as humans if you keep eating "junk food" it will eventually show some sign of distress like high cholesterol, lack of energy, hair dry and falling out, bad teeth, moodiness, obesity and more.
Lori Matthews studies health, nutrition and wellness. She enjoys writing articles on health for both people and pets. Please visit healthy, quality dog food for more information.
Friday, November 9, 2007
Skin Problems in Dogs and Cats
By Elyse Grau
The skin is a body's largest organ. It acts as a barrier against harmful invasions from the environment. It also is one of the methods by which the body eliminates toxins.
Skin problems are probably the most common ailments seen in dogs. Usually they are not a disease in themselves, but a symptom of another underlying problem.
The most common reason for skin problems in both dogs and cats is an allergy. Foods, pollens, dust or medications may cause signs of allergy. Problems can also show up due to dietary deficiency or poor diet in general. Symptoms include such as itching, redness, and poor coat quality.
If no other reason for the problem can be found, it is time to look for food allergies. Simply by changing the dog or cats diet to a higher quality food will often make a difference. Often simply adding raw meat to the diet is enough to see an improvement.
If the problem persists, or the pet is already on a healthy diet, then you must look at the specific ingredients in the food. Beef, chicken, corn and soy are the most common allergens, but cats and dogs, like people, can be allergic to anything. Try eliminating the above four things first, if that doesn't work a more drastic "elimination diet" may be necessary. This usually takes at least 6-8 weeks to get a good reading.
If no food allergy can be identified, or if eliminating an offending food has not solved the problem, then you must look to the environment - inside as well as outside. Once an allergic reaction has been allowed to continue for some time, the immune system is taxed and the body may become sensitive to other irritants.
Play detective! Ask yourself if anything has changed in the house recently; new carpeting, new cabinetry, fresh paint? These things can all give off chemicals which may cause illness. Are the symptoms seasonal? Pollens are a common allergen, and difficult to avoid, especially for a dog. Did the symptoms start suddenly? What happened just before they appeared - vaccinations? Other illness? Emotional upset? Finding and eliminating the cause can be a long and difficult process.
Essential Fatty Acids, also known as Omega-3 and Omega-6 are important nutrients for the skin and coat of dogs and cats. You might also consider certain herbs, such as Milk Thistle or Dandelion, which support the liver and help the body detoxify. There are many natural topical products that can be used to calm the symptoms.
Bathing is not always the answer. If the dog's coat is dry, bathing may just make matters worse. If you must bathe, use a gentle shampoo. For dogs or cats with itchy skin, look for oatmeal as one of the ingredients in a pet shampoo.
Another common cause of itching and redness for dogs and cats is flea bite dermatitis. Not all animals are allergic, but fleas will at least cause scratching or biting in all pets simply because they are annoying! Flea allergies however, cause the pests to be more than just an annoyance. Symptoms of flea allergy include hair loss, redness, and sometimes sores kown as "hot spots".
If you suspect your pet has fleas but you haven't actually seen any, look for the tell-tale black "specks" at the base of the hairs. Fleas particularly love the areas at the base of the tail, ears and hind legs (where they meet the belly). To determine if the specks are flea dirt (dried blood) and not just dirt, put some on a white paper or cloth and wet them. If they turn red, you've got fleas.
Some diseases cause symptoms of the skin and coat. Thyroid imbalances may cause dull, flaky or greasy coat and sometimes hair loss. Skin and ear infections are common with Cushing's Disease.
There are some diseases specific to the skin. Mange is caused by a mite and causes lesions and hair loss, usually around the mouth and eyes. This most often clears up on its own, but some dogs and cats cannot rid themselves of the mites and have a more severe case. Ringworm is a highly contagious fungus affecting cats, dogs and people (especially children). It shows up as circular lesions that are raw, hairless and scaly. The disease spreads rapidly.
Boredom or anxiety can cause a dog to lick its paws repeatedly and constantly, resulting in "lick granulomas". These are raised nodules, often rough and scaly. There is also a group of autoimmune diseases called Pemphigus which cause scaly skin, scabs and pustules. Some breeds are particularly susceptible to the disease.
Elyse Grau has written many articles on pet health and care. They are based on her own experience and knowledge, as well as extensive research and interviews. For more information on caring for your dog or cat, see => http://www.pethealthresource.com
The skin is a body's largest organ. It acts as a barrier against harmful invasions from the environment. It also is one of the methods by which the body eliminates toxins.
Skin problems are probably the most common ailments seen in dogs. Usually they are not a disease in themselves, but a symptom of another underlying problem.
The most common reason for skin problems in both dogs and cats is an allergy. Foods, pollens, dust or medications may cause signs of allergy. Problems can also show up due to dietary deficiency or poor diet in general. Symptoms include such as itching, redness, and poor coat quality.
If no other reason for the problem can be found, it is time to look for food allergies. Simply by changing the dog or cats diet to a higher quality food will often make a difference. Often simply adding raw meat to the diet is enough to see an improvement.
If the problem persists, or the pet is already on a healthy diet, then you must look at the specific ingredients in the food. Beef, chicken, corn and soy are the most common allergens, but cats and dogs, like people, can be allergic to anything. Try eliminating the above four things first, if that doesn't work a more drastic "elimination diet" may be necessary. This usually takes at least 6-8 weeks to get a good reading.
If no food allergy can be identified, or if eliminating an offending food has not solved the problem, then you must look to the environment - inside as well as outside. Once an allergic reaction has been allowed to continue for some time, the immune system is taxed and the body may become sensitive to other irritants.
Play detective! Ask yourself if anything has changed in the house recently; new carpeting, new cabinetry, fresh paint? These things can all give off chemicals which may cause illness. Are the symptoms seasonal? Pollens are a common allergen, and difficult to avoid, especially for a dog. Did the symptoms start suddenly? What happened just before they appeared - vaccinations? Other illness? Emotional upset? Finding and eliminating the cause can be a long and difficult process.
Essential Fatty Acids, also known as Omega-3 and Omega-6 are important nutrients for the skin and coat of dogs and cats. You might also consider certain herbs, such as Milk Thistle or Dandelion, which support the liver and help the body detoxify. There are many natural topical products that can be used to calm the symptoms.
Bathing is not always the answer. If the dog's coat is dry, bathing may just make matters worse. If you must bathe, use a gentle shampoo. For dogs or cats with itchy skin, look for oatmeal as one of the ingredients in a pet shampoo.
Another common cause of itching and redness for dogs and cats is flea bite dermatitis. Not all animals are allergic, but fleas will at least cause scratching or biting in all pets simply because they are annoying! Flea allergies however, cause the pests to be more than just an annoyance. Symptoms of flea allergy include hair loss, redness, and sometimes sores kown as "hot spots".
If you suspect your pet has fleas but you haven't actually seen any, look for the tell-tale black "specks" at the base of the hairs. Fleas particularly love the areas at the base of the tail, ears and hind legs (where they meet the belly). To determine if the specks are flea dirt (dried blood) and not just dirt, put some on a white paper or cloth and wet them. If they turn red, you've got fleas.
Some diseases cause symptoms of the skin and coat. Thyroid imbalances may cause dull, flaky or greasy coat and sometimes hair loss. Skin and ear infections are common with Cushing's Disease.
There are some diseases specific to the skin. Mange is caused by a mite and causes lesions and hair loss, usually around the mouth and eyes. This most often clears up on its own, but some dogs and cats cannot rid themselves of the mites and have a more severe case. Ringworm is a highly contagious fungus affecting cats, dogs and people (especially children). It shows up as circular lesions that are raw, hairless and scaly. The disease spreads rapidly.
Boredom or anxiety can cause a dog to lick its paws repeatedly and constantly, resulting in "lick granulomas". These are raised nodules, often rough and scaly. There is also a group of autoimmune diseases called Pemphigus which cause scaly skin, scabs and pustules. Some breeds are particularly susceptible to the disease.
Elyse Grau has written many articles on pet health and care. They are based on her own experience and knowledge, as well as extensive research and interviews. For more information on caring for your dog or cat, see => http://www.pethealthresource.com
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
Pet Health Insurance
By John J. Foley
It seems that Pet Health Insurance is getting a lot of attention in the press and on the internet these days. It is a simple, affordable solution for those who love their pets but are concerned about the financial hardship of high-quality pet care. Pet health insurance is peace of mind that protects you and your beloved pet from the inevitable and the unexpected. This type of insurance is still relatively new, and many pet owners are still unaware of their options.
Pet health insurance is designed to provide pet owners with coverage for unexpected illnesses or incidents resulting in expensive veterinary costs. While it may seem like something that only movie stars get for their Hollywood pets, it is becoming more mainstream and is being offered for very reasonable prices. So wherever you happen to live in the United States, insurance is really important, especially if you happen to have more than one pet.
It is particularly of use in an emergency, such as when a pet is involved in a road traffic accident and needs surgery. X-rays and operations can soon add up to well over thousands of dollars, meaning that this insurance is necessary to prevent having to payout such large sums if and when such an accident occurs. There are many benefits of having it for your dog or your cat and this is why this is becoming increasingly popular in this day and age.
Coverage
Coverage and cost vary, so it's important to thoroughly research the options if you decide to insure your pet. Coverage usually starts at eight weeks, but some plans won't cover pets over a certain age (usually between six and 10 years old, depending on the breed, type of animal and other factors). Coverage options range from catastrophic accident coverage to comprehensive illness coverage.
Pet health policies are similar to human insurance policies; annual premiums, deductibles, and different coverage plans based on what the owner chooses. When you purchase pet health insurance, it acts much like those plans meant for us in that the coverage usually starts right away but there may be a waiting period before the benefits kick in.
As for pre-existing conditions, some companies will allow coverage if the animal is stable or controlled (usually after a waiting period of 3 to 12 months), other companies will refuse animals with current conditions or terminal disease. Some policies (but not all) cover some preventative care, such as vaccinations, but there may be additional cost for this coverage. It's important to review your policy terms and conditions to ensure you have the right coverage for your pet.
When choosing pet insurance coverage, first consider what kind of insurance customer you are. Do you prefer all-inclusive coverage that pays for everything from routine checkups and vaccinations to accidents and chronic illnesses, or are you comfortable with a lesser degree of coverage that just kicks in during emergencies. You can usually decide what kind and how much coverage to provide for your pet. So getting yours is not really all that insane, and in the long run it could save you a great deal of money.
The cheapest way to take out pet health insurance is online; by going with a specialist insurer they can shop around on your behalf and get you the cheapest premiums with the best deals. If you are planning to have a pet for the rest for your life, then getting it is indeed a very wise decision.
With the increasing cost of veterinary care, pet health insurance is an absolute must for any pet owner today. As the cost of veterinary care continues to increase, it is quickly gaining popularity in the US. All in all though, it depends on you, and your pet(s), whether or not pet health insurance is the right choice.
Article Written By J. Foley
John Foley has written many articles about pets and their well being. If your looking for more information about this topic, You Can Go Here
It seems that Pet Health Insurance is getting a lot of attention in the press and on the internet these days. It is a simple, affordable solution for those who love their pets but are concerned about the financial hardship of high-quality pet care. Pet health insurance is peace of mind that protects you and your beloved pet from the inevitable and the unexpected. This type of insurance is still relatively new, and many pet owners are still unaware of their options.
Pet health insurance is designed to provide pet owners with coverage for unexpected illnesses or incidents resulting in expensive veterinary costs. While it may seem like something that only movie stars get for their Hollywood pets, it is becoming more mainstream and is being offered for very reasonable prices. So wherever you happen to live in the United States, insurance is really important, especially if you happen to have more than one pet.
It is particularly of use in an emergency, such as when a pet is involved in a road traffic accident and needs surgery. X-rays and operations can soon add up to well over thousands of dollars, meaning that this insurance is necessary to prevent having to payout such large sums if and when such an accident occurs. There are many benefits of having it for your dog or your cat and this is why this is becoming increasingly popular in this day and age.
Coverage
Coverage and cost vary, so it's important to thoroughly research the options if you decide to insure your pet. Coverage usually starts at eight weeks, but some plans won't cover pets over a certain age (usually between six and 10 years old, depending on the breed, type of animal and other factors). Coverage options range from catastrophic accident coverage to comprehensive illness coverage.
Pet health policies are similar to human insurance policies; annual premiums, deductibles, and different coverage plans based on what the owner chooses. When you purchase pet health insurance, it acts much like those plans meant for us in that the coverage usually starts right away but there may be a waiting period before the benefits kick in.
As for pre-existing conditions, some companies will allow coverage if the animal is stable or controlled (usually after a waiting period of 3 to 12 months), other companies will refuse animals with current conditions or terminal disease. Some policies (but not all) cover some preventative care, such as vaccinations, but there may be additional cost for this coverage. It's important to review your policy terms and conditions to ensure you have the right coverage for your pet.
When choosing pet insurance coverage, first consider what kind of insurance customer you are. Do you prefer all-inclusive coverage that pays for everything from routine checkups and vaccinations to accidents and chronic illnesses, or are you comfortable with a lesser degree of coverage that just kicks in during emergencies. You can usually decide what kind and how much coverage to provide for your pet. So getting yours is not really all that insane, and in the long run it could save you a great deal of money.
The cheapest way to take out pet health insurance is online; by going with a specialist insurer they can shop around on your behalf and get you the cheapest premiums with the best deals. If you are planning to have a pet for the rest for your life, then getting it is indeed a very wise decision.
With the increasing cost of veterinary care, pet health insurance is an absolute must for any pet owner today. As the cost of veterinary care continues to increase, it is quickly gaining popularity in the US. All in all though, it depends on you, and your pet(s), whether or not pet health insurance is the right choice.
Article Written By J. Foley
John Foley has written many articles about pets and their well being. If your looking for more information about this topic, You Can Go Here
Monday, November 5, 2007
The Benefits Of Pet Therapy In Patients
By Joy Gill
Pet therapy is an area that has received increased attention in therapeutic recreation. In recent years, the experts have been relying on pet therapy as a valuable aid in reaching out to the elderly, the infirm, and to ill or abused children through-out the country. Pet Therapy is the commonly used term for animal-assisted therapy (AAT), animal-assisted activities (AAA) and pet visitation. It is also recognized at hospitals around the country as a great way to help children cope with the stress and anxiety associated with hospitalization. Pet Therapy is a general term that encompasses many therapeutic activities involving animals as companions or occasional visitors to the sick, elderly, or mentally ill.
Pet therapy is now being used to help with a wide range of medical and emotional ailments. Sometimes just one treatment can and does work in alleviating many symptoms. Pet therapy also promotes socialization, improves self-esteem and security, and provides entertainment and acceptance. The visitations provide a warm and comforting presence, patient listeners, and a relaxing interlude to residents of health care facilities. The pet therapy program was initiated at Wishard Health Services in November 2002 and is now is a recognized method of treatment the world over, more so in developed countries and continues to grow by leaps and bounds. Pet therapy is one of the most rewarding volunteer activities a dog and handler can be involved with and is becoming a popular and important role for many animals, especially dogs. Visits can have a positive effect on a resident or patient's physical health, as well as on his or her emotional health by reducing loneliness and creating a sense of purpose. For the lonely residents of nursing homes, mental health facilities, rehabilitation centers, and homes for the handicapped, holding a warm puppy or playful kitten provides the unconditional love they need so much.
For people who enjoy animals, pet therapy offers some solid benefits: better health, more relaxed mood, enhanced connection to the world, improved communication, and the needed chance to play and create. Under direction of health services and education professionals, animal-assisted therapy can promote physical movement, emotional well being, cognitive awareness and social improvement for people with disabilities. In a health care facility, people come out of their rooms to socialize with the animals and with each other.
Each dog must undergo extensive training before they can interact with patients. In order to participate in a pet therapy program, volunteers generally need to undergo training and testing. You can help prepare your dog by ensuring good healthy socialization, positive exposure to a variety of people, other animals, environmental factors and situations. If you own a calm, friendly animal that would make a good pet companion and would like to check into volunteering, you can search the Internet for organizations that seek volunteers or contact a university's school of veterinary medicine for information.
Finally, although pet therapy has been shown to be effective for many people, it is important to remember that not everyone enjoys the presence of animals. Like any other type of therapeutic intervention, pet therapy should take the patient's likes and dislikes into account. Overall, participating in any type of Pet therapy program can be a very rewarding experience for everyone involved. To find pet therapy near you, look for a program with clear, therapeutic goals for its participants and also have Infection control guidelines that ensure patient safety. Also, be sure to get approval from your Dr. before starting any visits.
Please visit http://trujem.com/blog to see more of my work.
Pet therapy is an area that has received increased attention in therapeutic recreation. In recent years, the experts have been relying on pet therapy as a valuable aid in reaching out to the elderly, the infirm, and to ill or abused children through-out the country. Pet Therapy is the commonly used term for animal-assisted therapy (AAT), animal-assisted activities (AAA) and pet visitation. It is also recognized at hospitals around the country as a great way to help children cope with the stress and anxiety associated with hospitalization. Pet Therapy is a general term that encompasses many therapeutic activities involving animals as companions or occasional visitors to the sick, elderly, or mentally ill.
Pet therapy is now being used to help with a wide range of medical and emotional ailments. Sometimes just one treatment can and does work in alleviating many symptoms. Pet therapy also promotes socialization, improves self-esteem and security, and provides entertainment and acceptance. The visitations provide a warm and comforting presence, patient listeners, and a relaxing interlude to residents of health care facilities. The pet therapy program was initiated at Wishard Health Services in November 2002 and is now is a recognized method of treatment the world over, more so in developed countries and continues to grow by leaps and bounds. Pet therapy is one of the most rewarding volunteer activities a dog and handler can be involved with and is becoming a popular and important role for many animals, especially dogs. Visits can have a positive effect on a resident or patient's physical health, as well as on his or her emotional health by reducing loneliness and creating a sense of purpose. For the lonely residents of nursing homes, mental health facilities, rehabilitation centers, and homes for the handicapped, holding a warm puppy or playful kitten provides the unconditional love they need so much.
For people who enjoy animals, pet therapy offers some solid benefits: better health, more relaxed mood, enhanced connection to the world, improved communication, and the needed chance to play and create. Under direction of health services and education professionals, animal-assisted therapy can promote physical movement, emotional well being, cognitive awareness and social improvement for people with disabilities. In a health care facility, people come out of their rooms to socialize with the animals and with each other.
Each dog must undergo extensive training before they can interact with patients. In order to participate in a pet therapy program, volunteers generally need to undergo training and testing. You can help prepare your dog by ensuring good healthy socialization, positive exposure to a variety of people, other animals, environmental factors and situations. If you own a calm, friendly animal that would make a good pet companion and would like to check into volunteering, you can search the Internet for organizations that seek volunteers or contact a university's school of veterinary medicine for information.
Finally, although pet therapy has been shown to be effective for many people, it is important to remember that not everyone enjoys the presence of animals. Like any other type of therapeutic intervention, pet therapy should take the patient's likes and dislikes into account. Overall, participating in any type of Pet therapy program can be a very rewarding experience for everyone involved. To find pet therapy near you, look for a program with clear, therapeutic goals for its participants and also have Infection control guidelines that ensure patient safety. Also, be sure to get approval from your Dr. before starting any visits.
Please visit http://trujem.com/blog to see more of my work.
Saturday, November 3, 2007
Senior Pets Need Help, Too!
By Susan Osmanski
Many pampered pets are living longer now and can develop orthopedic or arthritic problems, just like their loving owners. As a result, many senior pets have problems reaching the couch or bed; an action that was once a simple task. Today, there are many products on the market that are designed to enable aging pets to continue their normal activities, even though they may have some problems.
Pet stairs are a great way to help older pets reach their favorite places, such as a couch or your bed. Many are lightweight, weighing as little as 5 lbs, and are easy to handle, which can be just as important for an aging owner. These can fold away if needed, or left out, since their modern styling blends well with any decor.
Other types of stairs are actual pieces of furniture with roomy compartments for your pampered pet's treasures. In the line of beds, there are great beds made of new materials that both conform to your pet's body and provide an insulating environment. This provides soothing, warm comfort for aging joints. These beds are roughly 4" high, allowing easy access.
Since heat is soothing for active, aging pets, there is a variety of heated pet beds and mats for all sizes of pets, for indoor, doghouse or garage use. The heated pet beds are self-contained units while the mats are meant to be placed under existing materials. Thermo pet throws are becoming popular and are basically electric blankets for pets. They are for indoor use and have adapters for use in vehicles.
For the aging but still traveling pet, ramps are a great way for your pet to get into and out of vehicles safely. Some ramps are as light as 7 lbs supporting 200 lbs, while others can weigh as little as 13 lbs while supporting over 400 lbs. Use of such ramps can save wear and tear on your pets' aching joints.
If you are still an active individual but your pet is slowing down, you can still take him for bike rides with bicycle pet trailers for any size pet, or bicycle baskets for smaller pets. We're aging and so are our pets. With so many great products available, your senior pet can keep up with you for a long, long time.
Susan Osmanski is co-owner of Maxie's Gifts & More, a great online pet supply and outdoor products web-store, specializing in pampered cat products, luxury dog items, indoor bird supplies, outdoor wildlife products, decorative backyard and garden items and gifts for pet lovers. To explore our great selection of products for older pets, visit http://maxiethecatgiftshop.com/dogs.html
To see all the great products they have, please visit http://maxiethecatgiftshop.com
Many pampered pets are living longer now and can develop orthopedic or arthritic problems, just like their loving owners. As a result, many senior pets have problems reaching the couch or bed; an action that was once a simple task. Today, there are many products on the market that are designed to enable aging pets to continue their normal activities, even though they may have some problems.
Pet stairs are a great way to help older pets reach their favorite places, such as a couch or your bed. Many are lightweight, weighing as little as 5 lbs, and are easy to handle, which can be just as important for an aging owner. These can fold away if needed, or left out, since their modern styling blends well with any decor.
Other types of stairs are actual pieces of furniture with roomy compartments for your pampered pet's treasures. In the line of beds, there are great beds made of new materials that both conform to your pet's body and provide an insulating environment. This provides soothing, warm comfort for aging joints. These beds are roughly 4" high, allowing easy access.
Since heat is soothing for active, aging pets, there is a variety of heated pet beds and mats for all sizes of pets, for indoor, doghouse or garage use. The heated pet beds are self-contained units while the mats are meant to be placed under existing materials. Thermo pet throws are becoming popular and are basically electric blankets for pets. They are for indoor use and have adapters for use in vehicles.
For the aging but still traveling pet, ramps are a great way for your pet to get into and out of vehicles safely. Some ramps are as light as 7 lbs supporting 200 lbs, while others can weigh as little as 13 lbs while supporting over 400 lbs. Use of such ramps can save wear and tear on your pets' aching joints.
If you are still an active individual but your pet is slowing down, you can still take him for bike rides with bicycle pet trailers for any size pet, or bicycle baskets for smaller pets. We're aging and so are our pets. With so many great products available, your senior pet can keep up with you for a long, long time.
Susan Osmanski is co-owner of Maxie's Gifts & More, a great online pet supply and outdoor products web-store, specializing in pampered cat products, luxury dog items, indoor bird supplies, outdoor wildlife products, decorative backyard and garden items and gifts for pet lovers. To explore our great selection of products for older pets, visit http://maxiethecatgiftshop.com/dogs.html
To see all the great products they have, please visit http://maxiethecatgiftshop.com
Thursday, November 1, 2007
Make Adoption Your First Choice
By Donna Levesque
Make Adoption Your First Choice
Deciding to get a new puppy can be a very exciting experience. You might think about what type puppy you want to get, what pet products you will need to buy and of course what you will name your new pet. You might even decide to buy him a fancy designer dog bed or pet carrier just to make him feel at home. In any event, the whole process can be great fun for the whole family.
When most people decide it is time to get a pet, they will usually visit a pet shop or look through ads in newspapers. Well, I say why not try looking in your local animal shelter first. Across this country are thousands of animals waiting patiently for good homes. Many of these animals have had a rough time right from the start due to abuse or neglect. Some of them were just abandon, left to fend for themselves. Think how it would make you feel if you were the one to rescue one of these animals from a life in a cage.
Animal shelters go to great lengths to give care and shelter to abandon and abused animals, but as hard as they try, they can never take the place of a loving home. These shelters make every effort to find safe and caring environments for each and every animal, however, until they do a cage is still a cage.
The animals in these shelters need loving families who will take the responsibility of caring for them, give them a life where they can run outdoors until their hearts content, go for walks with their new owners or just run and play like all pets should be allowed to do.
So if you are considering getting a new pet, think about visiting your local animal shelter. I guarantee, if you look at the faces of these adorable but homeless animals, you will not be able to leave without one. Life in a cage is no way for a pet to live. Like the title says, Make Adoption Your First Choice. You will be glad you did and so will your new pet. http://www.donmarblue.com
Make Adoption Your First Choice
Deciding to get a new puppy can be a very exciting experience. You might think about what type puppy you want to get, what pet products you will need to buy and of course what you will name your new pet. You might even decide to buy him a fancy designer dog bed or pet carrier just to make him feel at home. In any event, the whole process can be great fun for the whole family.
When most people decide it is time to get a pet, they will usually visit a pet shop or look through ads in newspapers. Well, I say why not try looking in your local animal shelter first. Across this country are thousands of animals waiting patiently for good homes. Many of these animals have had a rough time right from the start due to abuse or neglect. Some of them were just abandon, left to fend for themselves. Think how it would make you feel if you were the one to rescue one of these animals from a life in a cage.
Animal shelters go to great lengths to give care and shelter to abandon and abused animals, but as hard as they try, they can never take the place of a loving home. These shelters make every effort to find safe and caring environments for each and every animal, however, until they do a cage is still a cage.
The animals in these shelters need loving families who will take the responsibility of caring for them, give them a life where they can run outdoors until their hearts content, go for walks with their new owners or just run and play like all pets should be allowed to do.
So if you are considering getting a new pet, think about visiting your local animal shelter. I guarantee, if you look at the faces of these adorable but homeless animals, you will not be able to leave without one. Life in a cage is no way for a pet to live. Like the title says, Make Adoption Your First Choice. You will be glad you did and so will your new pet. http://www.donmarblue.com
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