Monday, April 21, 2008

10 Tips For You When Looking For The Right Dog Name

You love animal so much , specially dog . Therefore , you don't feel tired and difficult when spending a lot of time and money to find a lovely dog . After searching long and hard, you've finally found the perfect dog. So what's next?... Finding the perfect dog name of course!

Considering that over the course of your puppies lifetime his name will be used over 30,000 times, and that 1 in 5 new dog owners want to change their dogs name in the first year, choosing the right puppy name should be given as much care and thought as you showed when finding your pooch in the first place.

Below I've listed 10 dog naming tips taken from my website to be mindful of when looking for the right name, they are...

1. Avoid names that sound like common commands such as Go, Stay, Sit, etc. This might cause confusion for your puppy when trying to train it.
2. Be mindful that your dog might outgrow it's name. The name Buttercup might be appropriate for a cute puppy, but not when it becomes a full grown Great Dane!
3. Choose a name with one or two syllables. Dogs not only learn it quicker, but it makes them easier to train as well.
4. Watch out for trendy names that might cause embarrassment once the trend is passed. Do you want people to realize from your dog's name that you were once a big fan of Disco?
5. If you've adopted an older dog, it's best to keep her current name so that your dog doesn't become confused. If for some reason you must change it, consider a name that sounds similar to it's original name or one that rhymes.
6. Beware of the common trend to name dogs after people. Though doing so is not a bad thing in itself, if you name your pup after a friend or family member, they might take offense. Although you might think naming your dog Sally after your favorite Aunt is an honor, Aunt Sally might not. Also, be kind to your dog and name her after someone you like.
7. Does the dog name rhyme with something negative? Or maybe with the name of a family member or friend? Once discovered, you might be one of those 1 in 5 people who want to change their dogs name!
8. Stay away from potentially embarrassing names. The name "Pee Wee" might be funny at first, but as the joke gets old, how will you feel in a year or so when you have to call "Pee Wee" home at night?
9. Pick a name that matches your dogs own unique appearance or personality. The name Electra might be a good name for an energetic pooch, but not for one that like's to sleep all day.
10. Ask your dog what he thinks! Since it's going to be his name, you might want to narrow your search down to your own 5 favorite names, then try them out on your dog. You'd be surprised how well he responds to some, yet yawns at others.

Keeping in mind the above tips when searching for dog names will not only ensure a long, happy friendship with your dog, but also help to avoid a mid-life name change.


Source: http://www.thecontentcorner.com/Article/10-Tips-For-You-When-Looking-For-The-Right-Dog-Name/71754

Sunday, April 6, 2008

Iguana Care - The Basics

If you're after a pet that is different and sure to get lots of attention, then an iguana may be the right one for you. Looking after an iguana is not overly difficult or time consuming once you have organized a suitable habitat and understood the basics of iguana care. Some things to consider before you bring your pet iguana home include the following.

When feeding your iguana you should only feed it fruits and vegetables. Even though they may eat insects or meat if you feed it to them, it is not good for them to do so. Their digestive system will struggle to absorb the high levels of protein found in these foods and it can lead to health problems for your pet.

It is not true that you must feed your pet iguana meat for it to grow really big. By sticking to a healthy diet of fresh fruit and vegetables your iguana will not only grow extremely quickly, it will also be healthy and free from many of the diseases that can trouble them.

When either buying or making a home for your pet you need to make sure that you include areas within it that have different temperatures. Iguanas are cold-blooded and will move from one area to another to warm up or cool down. Having one spot where you pet can bask at around 95 degree Fahrenheit will keep them happy too.

The size of your iguanas home is also very important. Iguanas can reach up to 6 feet in length within the first 2 years of their life, so it is important that a prospective iguana owner plan ahead for such a large pet. Keeping your iguana cramped in a small space will not stop it from growing but it will make it unhappy and most probably ill.

Lastly, all iguanas need ultra violet light. This helps their bodies make vitamin D3 which aids in the absorption of calcium, needed for strong bones and teeth. You should give your pet as much time outside in the sun as possible as well as provide a secondary artificial source within your iguana enclosure.

These are the basics of proper iguana care and are a bare minimum that any iguana owner should know. It is highly recommended to anyone considering getting an iguana as a pet that they learn as much as they can before bringing your new pet home.


Source: http://www.thecontentcorner.com/Article/Iguana-Care---The-Basics/67030

Friday, April 4, 2008

Cat Food Coupon and Dog Food Coupons -Read This Now!

Finding online coupons for pet food is a great way to enjoy some savings on your cat's or dog's monthly expenses.

The pet food industry is a multi Billion industry. Pet food manufacturers are very much interested in having YOU as their customer and are willing to actually spend some money
acquiring you as a loyal customer.

Loyal customers not only purchase on an ongoing basis, but most homes with pets are multi pet homes. You are a long term stream of revenue.

While it is a great idea to cut our cost whenever we can, care should also be taken that we do not cut quality along with the price.

The markup for pet food is huge. Especially the food companies that use an excess of cheap fillers.

The pet food manufacturers pull out their arsenal in trying to gain you as a customer.
Their labels are beautiful with wheat fields and fresh crunchy vegetables...

Never mind that the so-called "wholesome grains" are not at all wholesome to a dog or cat. Grains are a major source for allergies, diabetes and irritable bowel syndrome.
But, it sure sounds nice. The word "wholesome" makes you feel good, no?

Then you read the label (since you are a good cat or do mum) and you are pleased to see that some form of animal protein source is listed as ingredient number one.

Frequently the source of the animal protein is not disclosed, meaning it can be just about anything. The spillage of the slaughter house floor, tumors, animals that arrived to the slaughter house already dead, road kill, hoofs, beaks and too many other "sources" anyone would not want to feed to their best friend. Wholesome......hm......

Then, for those with a discerning eye, corn shows up in it's constituents several times in the top ingredients.
This is a deliberate attempt of the pet food manufacturer to make it seem as if there is a lot less corn in the food. But adding the constituents of corn together, you realize that corn is in fact the number one ingredient on the list.

There is a lot to learn while shopping for food for your pet. While a home made diet is the absolute best choice, and neither hard to do or that expensive after doing the necessary research, a homemade diet may not be possible for everyone.

If you use commercial food, and you are looking for coupons, look for food that contain no corn, wheat or soy. They are far superior to those that do, and may not be more expensive.
Excluding food that contains corn, wheat or soy will make a big difference in your pets long term health.
Today there are companies producing canned and dry food without the dreaded grains.

To find Cat Food Coupon, Pedigree Dog Food Coupons, IAMS Dog Food coupons along with other free samples, visit www.luvmycritters.com/Cat-Food-Coupon.html


Source: http://www.thecontentcorner.com/Article/Cat-Food-Coupon-and-Dog-Food-Coupons---Read-This-Now-/65842

What's in the Name of Pet Foods?

From examining as many pet food labels as I do, it's disheartening to me to see pet food names that don't have much meaning to them. Many pet food lines have dozens of different types of dog food or cat food. Other than the typical adult or puppy/kitten formulas, there are foods that are marketed to special needs of pets such as senior pets, indoor cats, dental formulas, and so on. The problem can be that some of these niche pet foods there is no difference - or very little difference - in ingredients than the regular maintenance pet foods. Except the price. Niche pet foods do offer a higher price tag.

An example...

The first five ingredients of a cat food selling as a 'hairball management' pet food...Chicken, Chicken Meal, Cracked Pearled Barley, Egg Product, Ground Rice,

Same manufacturer, next here is the first five ingredients to a cat food sold as a 'finicky eater' pet food...Chicken, Chicken Meal, Cracked Pearled Barley, Egg Product, Ground Rice,

The first five ingredients are exactly the same - the only difference is the order of the third and fourth ingredients are swapped between the two products.

Not all specialty pet foods are poorly formulated or inappropriate for their niche use. I am suggesting that you look closely at the ingredients before you buy. Many times a pet food that is designed for a specialty purpose carries a hefty price tag. Pet owners could be paying for something that has no proven benefit for the specialty use and that is no different than a lesser priced maintenance diet.

Always read the ingredients in your pet's food and treats. Call the manufacturer and ask if meat ingredients are human grade and if any ingredients are imported from risky countries such as China.


Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/What-s-in-the-Name-of-Pet-Foods-/152087

Friday, March 28, 2008

Some Thoughts About Pet Insurance Costs

Pet insurance is not high on most American's agenda despite tens of millions of pet owners; why this is the case, no-one really knows. We all know just how important it is to have health insurance; providing the same for our pets only seems fair.

This is an often overlooked area and thought to be superfluous by some; however, pet owners soon realize that vets bills are costly and it doesn't take much treatment for them to enter into four figure bills. Many people forget just how much the cost of taking an animal to the vets for treatment has risen in recent times; pet insurance providers have, therefore, increased their premiums.

The rising cost of protection is one point to consider but are there any others? Accidents and serious illnesses occur from time to time; this invariably happens at the worst times, financially.

There may come a time when you have to consider the cost of medical treatment; the last thing you should have to deal with is the stress over the expense of saving your animal.

It was a huge shock when the vet informed us of the cost to treat our dog some time ago; although he is a part of my family, I did wonder at the time (I feel ashamed now), if the cost was worth it. To make matters worse, there is always a chance you pet still won't survive; there are no guarantees as complications are not uncommon.

The financial aspect of looking after a pet is something that must be considered carefully; when money problems occur, temporary or otherwise, this causes further worries. If you are over-extended at the bank, you may be forced into borrowing money.

If you are experiencing a cash flow situation, you probably won't spend as much on your pet's treatment as you would like; setting up a pet insurance plan, will provide peace of mind, as this will never be a problem again. Although pet healthcare insurance costs are rising they are not going to break the bank; plans are still affordable, especially when you consider the alternative.

Nearly all pet healthcare policies can be tailor-made to suit individual circumstances; discounts are often available should you decide to place all household pets all on one policy to reduce the monthly cost. All pet owners should think carefully about what healthcare provision they have made for their pet; you may already be giving this subject some serious consideration.


Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/Some-Thoughts-About-Pet-Insurance-Costs/148918

Wednesday, March 26, 2008

Keeping Your Cats Happy And Loving

Cats can be very loving animals if treated correctly. They can also get angry, pout, play and generally get along with everyone. But if you aren't paying attention, they can also get lonely. Here are some tips to keep your cat happy:

1. Toys: Replace old toys every so often with new ones. I keep a box of cat toys in the corner, and when my cats want to play they will pull one out and play with it. After awhile, I will notice the box is not touched and that is my sign to go out and get new ones. I try to get a wide variety for them, from mice and fuzzy toys, to toys that move on their own. This keeps them active and playing.

2. Catnip: Some cats go crazy over catnip and will roll around in it for hours. Buy a toy or mat that has catnip in it, or sprinkle some on a scratching pad. They will love you for it as they are covered in catnip and happily meowing.

3. Canned Food: If your cats can handle it, give them a treat every so often of canned food. It doesn't have to be the whole can, you can do 1/4 of a can, just a little to give them a nice change. If they aren't able to stomach canned food, try giving them a little edible cat treat that you can find at a pet food or grocery store. Just one will do the trick and they will be happy.

4. Talk to them: Cats love to be talked to. Try doing some baby talk and see the kind of reaction you get from them. They will most likely roll around on their backs or meow at you.

5. Play with them: Pull out one of those new cat toys you bought and toss it to them for a little while. You might find that you enjoy playing with them as well, while strengthening your bond with your kitty.

6. Get them a companion: If you live in a one-cat household and find that you can't be home as often as you'd like, try getting them a buddy. Don't be surprised if they don't get along well at first; they will soon get used to each other and be inseparable.

7. Lastly, pet them and show them love. Cats can be affectionate and most of them love the attention of being petted. Spend a night hanging out with your cat and they will most likely open up to you and lay with you.

There's nothing like hearing the contented purr of your cat as they are lazily lounging around. Keep them happy by giving them lots of love and attention. Your cats will thank you for it.


Source: http://www.thecontentcorner.com/Article/Keeping-Your-Cats-Happy-And-Loving/64128

Pet Health Insurance Policies

Recent advances in scientific research have supplied pet owners with the way to now save their darling family pets from wounds and diseases that would have caused the pet to be euthanized in the not so distant past.

The distressing news is that once the inconceivable occurs and a pet's life hangs in the balance most pet possessors discover that they're not able to afford the frequently astonishing cost of the treatments which may range from $3000-$10000 and some times even more, and are forced to euthanize their pets anyhow. It's in these cases that pet possessors wish they had the foresight to buy a pet health insurance policy. Pet health insurance is akin to human health insurance.

Owners who buy pet health insurance do so for a diversity of reasons. They may be fascinated by the thought that they'll be able to economise on their pet's yearly jaunt to the veterinary surgeon or they may simply be concerned that if a life-threatening health crisis arises they will not be capable of paying for the treatment. Pet owners may choose from an assortment of plans such as pet fatality/mortality insurance, major medical insurance, and basic medical insurance (insurance policy names might alter from company to company.) A lot of pet healthcare insurance companies offer a diversity of extra riders to complement the pet healthcare insurance scheme.

Mortality/fatality pet insurance is akin to human life insurance. The owner pays a premium each month the pet is alive, in the case of its demise the owner is reimbursed a preset sum of money. Although the mortality insurance policy doesn't take the hurt out of losing a loved household pet it could help with any extra medical bills that are accrued at the close of your pet's lifespan.

Basic medical health insurance generally covers veterinary surgeon expenses such as accidents, non-elective operations, hospital care, and sicknesses. One popular insurance firm extends a scheme that pays from cuts to cancer up to a thousand dollars; most pet owners employ this scheme for emergencies only. Pet possessors are advised to buy a pet healthcare insurance policy plan as early in their pet's life as practicable. Numerous insurance firms and vets call attention to the fact that most freak accidents occur in the earlier years of a pet's lifetime. Owners had better be mindful that most pet health insurance plans don't cover genetic dis-orders that arise in certain breeds and a few of the costlier surgeries. Most insurance plans likewise won't touch pre-existent conditions.

Horse owners might need to look at buying a loss of use insurance policy for their horses. A loss of use policy antes up if the horse is wounded so severely it's no longer fit to be ridden or bred, but isn't so seriously hurt to warrant euthanizing the beast.


Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/Pet-Health-Insurance-Policies/147212

Heartworm - It can be Prevented!

Pet owners everywhere know that their pets are almost as much a part of the family as anyone else; in fact single people and couples with no children often regard the family pet as an acceptable substitute. It is no wonder that we do all that we can in order to ensure a long life and good health for our animal companions.

The most common, and usually the most companionable pets in North America today are cats and dogs. Many of the diseases that can occur in one occur in the other, one example being heartworm(s). This disease is much more common in dogs than in any other animal, but it has been known to spread to cats and even to humans. In this article we take a look at what this parasite can do to your pet, and how to prevent that from happening.

Symptoms of heartworm

Pets infected with the heartworm parasite will almost always demonstrate a marked decrease in their levels of activity. Active dogs and cats, in particular, will start showing signs of the parasite right away, including coughing, fatigue, weight loss, fainting, and coughing up of blood.

In less active animals, these symptoms will not appear as readily, which poses even more of a risk to your pet. Missing the active signs such as decreased activity means that the worm(s) has grown bigger and the more severe symptoms are now being demonstrated, and heart failure might be just around the corner.

Expensive to treat!

Make no mistake about it, if your family pet has heartworm(s) you are going to have to decide whether you are going to part ways or spend a lot of money in treating the animal. Often surgery will be needed, although you may opt for oral treatments. The arsenic based compounds used to treat heartworm(s) will make your pet extremely sick, cost a lot of money, and are a hazard to children. In addition, your pet will still be at risk and must have restrained activity for many weeks after treatment.

The best procedure is prevention

The best way to keep your pet healthy is to prevent heartworm(s) from becoming active in the first place. There are several different drugs available for both dogs and cats that can ensure that your pet stays heartworm free. They include ivermectin, milbemycin, and moxidectin. They are given to your pet monthly in seasons where mosquitoes are active, and result in a protection rate of 99%

Avoid extra costs and labour, and above all discomfort to your pet, by ensuring that your dog or cat is given the right drugs to prevent heartworm(s). After all, they are a part of the family!

Are you the owner of a dog, cat or pocket pet and are in need of a vet London Ontario has an animal hospital that offers preventative and proactive treatments for your furry friends.


Source: http://www.thecontentcorner.com/Article/Heartworm---It-can-be-Prevented-/64257

Monday, March 24, 2008

The Bull Terrier: Fact about the Boston and Kerry Blue Dogs

The Boston terrier is a well-muscled and compact breed. This is not really surprising since the Boston terrier was first bred by people who wanted to use them in dog fights. Now some people may read all sorts of implications from such a violent past. Some people might think that the Boston terrier dog would make a bad pet because of its aggressive nature. However, you should know that as a pet, the Boston terrier can actually be pretty mild mannered.

Regarding the living conditions, Boston terriers can do well enough without a yard as long as they get regular exercise. This means that they are suitable for apartment living. However, you should also know that they are very sensitive to the extremes of weather. This means that you should keep it in a place that's neither too hot nor too cold.

Bostons have a variety of common health problems. They easily get overheated when they are pushed too hard. As said before, they can also be sensitive to extreme weather and any weather that's too hot or too cold can leave them with breathing difficulties. Skin tumors and heart tumors are very common with this breed. So you need to bring the dog to a vet regularly.

On the Kerry Blue Terrier dog

The Blue Kerry terrier pet dog is one of the most mysterious breeds of terriers. This is because of the fact that even though the breed has been known by the Irish for at leas 150 years, nobody really knows where they came from or how they were first bred.

One thing that is so cool about owning a Blue Kerry terrier pet dog is the fact that this breed is adaptable to every situation. It can be a hardworking hunter's dog. It can become the vigilant watchdog. If you want companionship, it can also provide that. People who are fortunate to have a Blue Kerry terrier pet dog even say that once you are a Kerry lover, you are forever a Kerry lover.

A Blue Kerry terrier is not really for everyone. Some people may find it a bit too playful. Some people may not really get used to the Blue Kerry terrier's curiosity. People may not really understand its habit of following everyone around. Today, the fate of the Blue Kerry terrier dog lies in the hands of the breeders who care for them, nurture them, and make sure that they have great homes to stay in.


Source: http://www.thecontentcorner.com/Article/The-Bull-Terrier--Fact-about-the-Boston-and-Kerry-Blue-Dogs/60324

The Amazing World Of Virtual Pets

The virtual pets also known as the digital pets have mostly taken the place of the real animals like the dog, cats, hamsters and few more similar to it. These pets are artificial human companion and are kept for enjoyment and companionship. Nowadays people prefer a digital pet in the place of real pet.

These pets are gaining popularity simply because keeping a real pet is sometimes practically impossible due to lack of time.The pet when added in the family becomes the responsibility of the owner to look after it in every sense. For this pet can be the better choice and can give a sense of owning a pet.

There are basically three types of virtual pets namely gadget-based, web-page based and Game or-application based pets. The gadget-based virtual pets are sold as a self contained, palm size computer. It has a small screen where the image of a pet appears. The buttons on the case are meant for the users to perform different tasks like feeding them, playing with them or washing the pet clean. Pets who are not satisfied with the care taken can emit beeps and sometimes die.

Many of the popular websites adopt virtual pets to put on their webpage and use for role playing in chat rooms. In some websites you can become the adoptee and ca adopt a virtual pet for which you will require to have a web page ready for your virtual pet.

Some of the sites can also adopt pets to put on a web-page and are revolving around writing for and breeding said pets to create newer, often 'showier' pets. Members of such sites are often encouraged to create their own species of draconic creatures, to adopt from other members, and to breed the various species together.

The last one is the Game or-application based pets that come in software run on PC or video games consoles. It had powerful computing than with web page or gadget based digital pets, which helps in achieving a higher level of visual effects and interactivity.

The advanced technology gives a sense of reality to the pets and some enhance playability. With the advanced video gaming technology the user and interpret the actions of the pet like body language and the facial expressions. The user can have a short term or long term interaction with the pet.

In short term interaction the user can touch the pet with the cursor of the mouse and the pet will response to the touch. In long term interaction the users action affect pet's growth, behavior or life span. The user starts understanding the needs of the pet through its behavior, which seems natural and nurtures a feeling of developed relationship between the pet and the user.

The virtual pets are designed in such a manner that their certain level of autonomy and unpredictability gives a user a sense of reality. The user can interact with the pet and forms a special corner in the heart of the user. The user starts developing attachment for the virtual pet and a sense of responsibility towards it like when it comes having a real pet.


Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/The-Amazing-World-Of-Virtual-Pets/145708

Weimaraners As Pets

If you are searching for a dog whom will be a true companion by your side at all times, look no further than the Weimaraner. This breed of dog thrives on being a member in a family, and is extremely loyal and loving.

The exact origin of the Weimaraner is not known, but dogs very similar have roots as far back as the 1200s. It is believed to have been a cross between Continental pointing breeds and a Mastiff. The breed as it is known today was developed in the 1800s by Grand Duke Karl August of Weimar. The breed named after the hometown of the Duke, is an all around pointing and hunting dog. Germany was very possessive of their prized hunting dog, and it was not until the middle of the 20th century before any were brought into the United States.

The Weimaraner was originally bred for hunting and tracking big game, though in time they were also used for small game or upland birds. The pointing of the Weimaraner has been described as slow, but what they lack in speed they make up for in thoroughness. The breed also has been used as guard dogs, rescue dogs, and service animals for the disabled.

You would be hard pressed to find a finer athletic looking dog breed as the Weimaraner. They are moderately large with males being 24 - 27 inches tall and 55 - 70 pounds. While females area 22 - 25 inches tall and 50 - 65 pounds. The head is long with amber or gray eyes and moderately long ears. Some feel the Weimaraner has a very regal appearance!

The coat of this breed is very short and smooth, though there is also a less common long haired breed. The coat coloring is gray to silver gray which has gotten the dog the nickname "silver ghost" or "gray ghost". This coat is very low maintenance on this breed so this goes over well with owners who are not into constantly combing their dogs.

The Weimaraner is extremely loving and loyal to a fault! The breed is highly prone to separation anxiety and must be handled carefully to avoid the destructive behavior that results from this. The breed is also very intelligent and easily trainable which is good since if left untrained they tend to have several negative characteristics. The Weimaraner does well in a family as long as the children are not too small. Since they are so full of energy they could easily hurt a small child without meaning to.

It is essential a Weimaraner is exercised daily for a fairly long duration of time. As this breed has tons of energy and amazing stamina very long walks or jogs are the best way to ensure they get enough exercise. It is very important to ensure your Weimaraner is well trained or on a leash at all times as the breed has a very high instinctive prey drive. The dog will not hesitate to charge large of small animals if not kept under control.

The Weimaraner is very prone to several health issues such as gastric torsion, hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and more. Ensure you buy your dog from a breeder who refuses to breed with animals who display signs of carrying any of these disorders. This will help breed out these detrimental health problems.

If you are considering a Weimaraner as your next pet, you can search for Weimaraners for sale online from the top breeders at Find A Pet Online. If you breed Weimaraners and would like to advertise your pets for sale on the best pet classified ads site online please check out our affordable ads and consider listing your kennel today.


Source: http://www.thecontentcorner.com/Article/Weimaraners-As-Pets/61051

Learn About Bird Watching Vacation Facts

Do you like fresh air? Do you like leisure activities in the forest? Do you appreciate nature? If you answered yes to a few of these questions why dont't you try a great hobby like bird watching? You can even travel the world and still appreciate this simple and not expensive pastime during a holiday.

If you're an avid bird watcher, a unique bird watching vacation to try is a world tour visiting some of the world's best bird watching sites. Even nearby in the United States, many states offer bird sanctuaries and aviaries where you can go. Every places is home to many species of native avian life, and guarantees you a unique experience. Here are a few of the more prominent international sites you'll want to visit if you decide to go farther abroad:

South America - the jungles of South America are home to thousands of incredible birds. Bird watching vacation hot sites in South America is the Itatiaia National Park in Brazil, which is home to around 350 variety of species of birds native to the Amazon. The Iguazu National Park is the most important natural reserve in Argentina, with over 400 types of indigenous birds. Other good places to check in South America are the Hato Pinero and Hato Cedral ranches in Venezuela, which are particularly popular for bird watching.

Europe - there are many popular sites in Europe for bird watching. There are in fact hundreds of bird watching spots in Britain alone. If you are taking in consideration Britain, the annual bird fairs and conventions held in various local districts are some things to look out for. Scotland and Ireland are also popular bird watching places, as they have little isles and lakes around these two countries are home to many different forms of bird life that are unique specifically to these islands.

The Carribean - While normally associated with vacations of a different kind, the Carribean Islands, are actually a very good place to visit on a bird watching vacation world excursion. In the Bahamas, Grand Bahama Island is the most well-liked place to go for bird watching. Bermuda is another excellent place to visit, because there are seven major natural reserves there sponsored by the Audubon Society. In Jamaica, the Rocklands Bird Sanctuary is popular because the birds there are so docile they sometimes perch on the bird watchers and eat out of their hands.

Asia - if you're willing to range far afield, Asia is a great place to go for bird watching vacation as various live there that you can not see anywhere in the west. Japan alone includes around 600 species of birds. The Lake Utonai and Tateyama Bird sanctuaries in Japan are the most prominent wildlife preserves where you can watch them. China's main attraction is not only its indigenous species of birds, but the fact that some places like Beidaihe are a migratory centre for far-ranging birds from all across Asia. Another good place to visit for bird watching is Thailand's Doi inthanon International Park, which have 382 resident species. Now you know that there are a lot of places you could treat yourself in a great bird watching trip. Remember to take your camera and your trusty bird watching binoculars with you!

So as you can realize there are quite a few interesting places you can go visit while enjoying this super bird watching hobby. If you don't feel like travelling there is also your trusty backyard to be explored. You could be surprised of what you can discover back there.


Source: http://www.thecontentcorner.com/Article/Learn-About-Bird-Watching-Vacation-Facts/61905

Sunday, March 23, 2008

The Rewards of Dog Adoptions

We`ve all seen stray dogs roaming the street looking scared, hungry, and frazzled. It tears your heart out. It always makes me wonder how they ended up that way.
Some slightly luckier strays might end up in shelters or getting rescued by a compassionate person. Not all dogs end up in shelters because they were
necessarily "bad" or had behavioral problems. Alot of them end up in shelters because people buy dogs without considering the effort and expense of dog
ownership. Some end up there because an owner dies or goes into a nusing home. Some are also are either given or simply dropped off there because of
divorces and neither perosn wants or can care for the dog by themselves. But there`s many dogs end up discarded because they were used by breeders or puppy mills
as sort of breeding machines. Then when they no longer serve that purpose, they are given up

Rescued dogs who have been neglected or abandoned need training and gentle to be a good member of your household. However, they most likely will need less training than a puppy would. People don`t know that a good percentage of rescue dogs aren`t just mutts, but come from breeders (as mentioned earlier) or pet stores, and are pedigrees. Either way rescued dogs can make great pets and can, with your compassion and patience adapt to your lifestyle and family members. You`ll then be rewarded with their loyalty and affection. An abandoned dog is usually eager to become part of a loving pack where they feel safe and loved - since they are by nature pack animals. Many who adopt these rescued dogs describe their new family members as eager to please and form strong bonds with their human "pack".

Should you go to a shelter or rescue society (usually for a specific breed such as greyhounds), there`s usually a fee which covers a medical exam, spaying or neutering, and any necessary shots. Fees typically range from $100 to $300, which also contributes to the cause of the shelter which is after all to keep doing what they do. You will likely meet with a volunteer worker at the shelter so you can meet the dog before you adopt and to see if it`s a good match. If the dog chooses you too with a loving gaze, then that`s a good sign that you`ve been approved to receive their friendship hopefully for many years to come.

Louise Green is a freelance writer and researcher. She has put together a web site that provides updated information on pet rescues and also resources for providing quality nutrition, toys, and free tips on dog training. You can visit her site at www.dogandcatcentral.info


Source: http://www.thecontentcorner.com/Article/The-Rewards-of-Dog-Adoptions/62138

Friday, March 21, 2008

An Introduction to the Boxer Breed of Dog

The Boxer is one of the oldest German breeds. He has become a staple in American Society as a family pet and protector. Developed in Germany, the Boxer is stocky, medium-sized, shorthaired dog. The coat is smooth and fawn or brindled, with or without white markings. Boxers have a square muzzle, physically powerful jaws and a powerful bite ideal for hanging on to prey of any size. The Boxer was bred from the original Bulldog and the now extinct Bullen beisser.

Overview

The Boxer first came into competition in 1895 along side St. Bernard's in Munich, Germany. The first boxer club was subsequently founded the following year in 1896.The breed was introduced to other parts of Europe late in the 19th century and to the United States approximately the turn of the century. The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the first Boxer champion in 1915. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), in 2002 Boxers entered the list at 7th on the most popular breeds, and have maintained that position ever since. This position of popularity has been maintained through 35,388 new dog registrations annually.

Boxers live an average of 10-12 years. The have a small legs, and a physically powerful muscular build with an inquisitive look. The Boxer coat typically comes in white with some black or brown markings through out. Some liken the coat coloring to appear similar to that of a cow.

Temperament

He is celebrated for his love and faithfulness to his family. He is suspicious of strangers, but bright and friendly at play, and brave when need be. His intelligence and eager tractability, his modesty and cleanliness make him a sought-after family dog and companion. His honesty and loyalty, and is by no means false or treacherous even with age. Boxers are well behaved with children of all ages. The reputation of being "headstrong" can be correlated to inappropriate and lacking obedience training. Boxers are patient with smaller dogs but can feel the need to be dominant with larger dogs, especially of the same gender. Boxers react best to positive reinforcement techniques. He requires socialization early in life to tolerate other dogs well. Boxers are on the whole comfortable with companionship, from either human or canine.

Common Ailments

Boxers are prone to develop cancers, heart conditions; hypothyroidism, hip dysplasia, and degenerative myelopathy; tendency to develop spondylosis deformans, a fusing of the spine. Before bringing a boxer home, ask about family medical history, as well as your dogs history to gage if the needed medical effort will be possible.

Grooming / Physical Needs

This dog requires proper exercise and conditioning for continued health and longevity; The Boxer is a clean canine with a short coat that needs little more than a wipe-down and an occasional bath. Due to the short hair on this breed, daily or weekly bathing will result in dry skin and possibly additional skin disorders.

Special Abilities / Talents

Companions; alertness, agility, and strength make them formidable guard dogs; used as service dogs, guide dogs for the blind, therapy dogs, police dogs; herding cattle or sheep; trainable for various other service positions. The Boxer is a renowned family pet, with great affection for every member of his family. He is not however known as a multifamily pet, as he is a dedicated, loyal dog.


Source: http://www.thecontentcorner.com/Article/An-Introduction-to-the-Boxer-Breed-of-Dog/62560

Paw print ceramic food bowl

Bowls can be made of a wide range of materials like ceramic, metal, wood, plastic, glass, and other materials. This pet bowl has "FOOD" imprinted in bold black to differentiate it from the water bowl. Our Katiewong Shop sales on dog bowls or raised dog food feeders in designer colors and cool modern designs. A compact treasury of recipes, all designed to be tucked into from your Favourite bowl. From hearty soups and risottos to warm up the coldest hands, to light salads and seafood meals, cooks will find that this book has all the favorites covered.

Dog bowl food is relaxed eating in your pets. Our colorful Pet Dishes are made from food-safe ceramic and can be used indoors or out. The Red and blue with white accents. Show your furry friend that they are unique and special with our Personalized dog Food Bowl. This do-it-yourself ceramic cat food bowl comes with a revolutionary ceramic-specific pen that works just like a marker but once fired in your home oven, it becomes dishwasher, microwave safe, and lasts a lifetime.

Katiewongnyc.com Paw print Pet accessories Ceramic Bowls are furr-ific! Ceramic dog food and water bowls with darling raised paw print icon in the center. Don`t forget to feed your pet all-natural, gourmet dog food. The small and big paw print ceramic bowls are available in our site. The pet accessories products are also available in our site. The ceramic dog treat jar available in red and blue. Dog dishes come in many sizes and the sleek design is sure to complement any home decor.

The Ceramic food bowl is a common container, which is used differently in different cultures. It may be used as a container to hold food while eating or for drinking and it is also used to keep food or other articles. All these pet bowls are dishwasher safe, resist damage from chewing and keep their good looks a long time. The more designs of dog food bowl and water bowl is available in our Katiewong site in Newyork city. Please purchase online http://www.katiewongnyc.com in Newyork.


Source: http://www.thecontentcorner.com/Article/Paw-print-ceramic-food-bowl/62688

Dog Grooming Tips

No matter what breed of dog you plan to purchase there are some grooming tips you will want to know. All dogs need proper grooming for the health and attractiveness of the breed. Read on to find out what you need to do in the grooming process and learn how beneficial it is to not only to your dog but for you as well.

Coat Grooming

All dogs have coats; some are short, long, wire-haired, curly, straight, or wavy. No matter the coat, you will need to invent in a good brush. The brush you decide upon needs to be the type that will get through your dog's hair without causing harm to skin or pull on the hair. Wire steel brushing are great to use to get loose hair before it falls on your furniture and carpet. You can also purchase wire combs, which are best for smaller breeds since they tend to be a bit smaller.

Choose the size of your brush or comb in accordance with the size of your dog. If you have a large dog, choose a larger brush that will cover more area as you brush. If you have a small dog, a smaller brush will be easier to use to get behind the ears and other small areas. Bathe your dog when he is visibly dirty or has a foul odor. Shampooing dries out a dog's coat and can rip some dog's natural oils from its hair. These natural oils protect the dog's skin and in some breeds, repel water.

Trimming Nails

The frequency of trimming your dog's nails depends on if your dog goes outdoors often especially on concrete and how fast the nails grow. If your dog runs on concrete then the nails usually file down to an appropriate length. If not, you will have to purchase some nail clippers especially designed for dogs.

When cutting, place the clipper above the wick. The wick is the part of the nail where you see the nerve. You don't want to clip the nerve because it will bleed and does cause some discomfort to the dog. Sometimes it is hard to see where the wick begins so you may have to take your dog to the vet or professional groomer for clippings.

Ear Cleaning

All dogs need to have their ears cleaned. This is because wax and dirt accumulates in them, which can lead to bacteria growth. You can usually tell when your dog needs an ear cleaning if he is shaking his head often and scratching. However, if after cleaning out his ears, your dog continues to exhibit this behavior, you need to consult with your vet because he may have an ear infection or other health concern.

Tarter Control

Yes, even dogs need their teeth cleaned. They have specially made toothbrushes for dogs that you can purchase at your local pet store. You can train your dog to sit still while you brush his teeth. Some dogs will not allow their owners to do this so you may need a professional groomer help you with this task.

Spending Quality Time

Not only will proper grooming keep your dog looking nice and healthy, but also it will allow you to have one to one time with your pet. Life can get hectic and even dogs can tell that you are busy. Time spent with your dog will keep your pooch happy and will remind you why you love your dog so very much.


Source: http://www.thecontentcorner.com/Article/Dog-Grooming-Tips/62580

How to Attract More Birds to Your Backyard and Birdhouses

If you have already put up some birdhouses in your own backyard, you are probably wondering how you are going to attract and get more birds to come and visit your birdhouses. This article provides some ideas that you can easily implement to attract more birds to your backyard and your birdhouses.

First, as with humans, food is always a popular way to attract birds to your birdhouses and your backyard. You can provide different kinds of food to cater to different types of species of birds. Some of these food include nectars, small insects, fruits, nuts and seeds. In addition to these food sources, you should also always provide fresh water to the visiting birds. Bird baths and small ponds are some good ways to provide the visting birds with water.

The fastest way to a bird's heart is through its stomach. By providing food and water to the birds, you are performing bird feeding. Bird feeding is also a great way to observe different species of birds and their respective unique characteristics. Bird feeding is particularly important to birds because it provides them with a source of food and water during periods when food and water are scarce such as winter time. However, bird feeding can be done all year round as it supplements the visiting birds with their food needs. As such, its a great way to attract more birds to your birdhouses and backyard.

So how can you use this knowledge to attract more birds to your birdhouses and backyard ? For one, you can choose a safer spot in your backyard and set up a simple feeding station. The spot you choose should preferably be away from predators. You can take some precautionary measures to make the chosen spot safer like installing a ultrasonic cat deterrant and making sure there are no food near the spot so as to avoid attracting hungry animals. You can encourage birds to visit your feeding station by placing bird food in different areas around the feeding station. You can then vary the distance and shorten it as time goes by.

As mentioned, you don't have to build or buy an elaborated feeding station. The most important factor that your feeding station should have is the ease in which you can maintain it. It should be easy to refill, it should display the food prominently to birds, it should also hold a reasonable amount of food so you do not have to keep topping it up with food and finally it should be able to hold more then one bird at one time. Some of the simple feeding station you can consider buying would be the tube-feeder in which the seeds stay dry and its design prevents spillage of food or you can choose the hopper type of bird feeders which dispenses food automatically when they are needed.

As for water, it is essential if you want to attract more birds to your birdhouses. You should note that different species of birds have different requirements of how deep they like their water source to be. For example, some species of birds like small puddles while other birds like bird baths that are relatively deep. Providing various depths of water will attract different species of birds. However, do take note that your water depth should not be more then 2 inches deep as some birds may drown and do not choose a bird bath with an elaborated and striking pattern or design at the bottom of the bath as it may confuse the birds and discourage them from using the bird bath.

Besides all the points mentioned above, you should also keep in mind the number one factor that influences the attractiveness of your birdhouse to visiting birds. What's the number one factor that people always don't take note ? Its the safety of your birdhouses to the visiting birds. If you are attracting a certain kind of species of bird, customize the entrance opening hole of the birdhouse to suit just the species of bird you want to attract. Removable of birdhouse perches and the reduction of backyard predators also play a big part in making your birdhouse safer and more attractive to birds.


Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/How-to-Attract-More-Birds-to-Your-Backyard-and-Birdhouses/145109

Thursday, March 20, 2008

When is the ideal season to add a new puppy to your home. By Bullie Pups R Us

What is the best season to purchase a puppy?

Ideally spring and early fall are the best times for most US states to purchase a puppy. Springtime is when the weather starts to warm up and new life begins all around us. This weather makes it especially ideal for the grueling task of house breaking your puppy. The warmer temperatures allow us a bit more patience when we have to run out side every hour and stand out there waiting on our new little one to find the perfect spot to do his duty. It is not pleasant to do this in the bitter cold of winter or the blazing heat of hot summer.

Another reason is that many US buyers are a bit discriminative and want a certain look or quality in a puppy or breed. This may not be possible to find locally. Since airlines will ship live animals we have the option of utilizing the Internet to hunt across the broad boundaries of the US to find our soul puppy. In order to safely ship puppies the airlines have strict Federal guidelines in regards to shipping live animals. One of the guidelines is temperature restrictions. If it is too hot or too cold then the airlines are not allowed to ship a puppy due to the risks involved and for the puppy's welfare. Since and early fall spring offer the best of temperatures these are optimal times to think about adding a new puppy to your family.

When a puppy leaves his mother to go to his new home it is a major transition. It may be a wonderful and loving transition but it will still be stressful no matter how great the bliss. Stress is a major contributor to lowering the immune system. So shipping a puppy or when having to go outside for quite a few of accumulated hours when the temperatures are too cold or too hot to a stressed immune system is a set up for illness.

So take these factors into consideration when you're thinking of adding a new furry member to your family.


Source: http://www.thecontentcorner.com/Article/When-is-the-ideal-season-to-add-a-new-puppy-to-your-home--By-Bullie-Pups-R-Us/62214

Cat Poisoning - 7 Reasons Not To Induce Vomiting If Your Cat Is Poisoned

The usual cat poisoning symptoms are vomiting or diarrhea. Unfortunately, not all symptoms become immediately apparent. Often the affects of her consuming something poisonous are not revealed for several weeks.

If you suspect cat poisoning, there are several situations when you should not induce vomiting. Sometimes a cat is poisoned and she never swallowed a toxic product. She may have inhaled or come in contact with something poisonous to cats. A good example is carbon monoxide poisoning in a poorly ventilated room using a propane heater.

In most cases of cat poisoning, getting your pet to vomit is the most important thing that you can do.

To induce vomiting, give hydrogen peroxide at 1 teaspoon per 10 lbs of body weight. If your cat does not vomit in 10 minutes, repeat again. NEVER do more than two treatments of peroxide.

However, DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING if your situation matches one of these:

Situation 1: Is unconscious
Situation 2: Is having seizures (convulsions)
Situation 3: Has already vomited
Situation 4: Been in contact with the poison for 2 hours or more
Situation 5: Has swallowed acid or alkali product, cleaning solution or petroleum product
Situation 6: Has swallowed an object
Situation 7: Consumed something caustic such as drain cleaner or bleach

Generally, if your cat is exhibiting these symptom your cat may be poisoned.

* Seizures
* Vomiting
* Loss of appetite
* Having diarrhea
* Swelling of the tongue or other mouth tissues
* Staggering
* Excessive salivation

If you suspect your cat has inhaled, absorbed or otherwise ingested something toxic DO NOT WAIT for cat poisoning symptoms to appear. Call your veterinarian immediately or call the ASPCA Poison Hotline at 1-888-426-4435.

If your cat is showing symptoms of cat poisoning, it is important that she is examined by your veterinarian and treated appropriately. Some toxins can progress and lead to severe seizures. If you suspect antifreeze poisoning your cat must be treated within four to six hours or she will experience irreversible kidney damage.

Effective treatment depends on immediate treatment and knowing what the substance is -- bring it with you. Take samples of diarrhea or vomit too. If you can't take the suspected substance, write down the contents, manufacturer and any phone numbers.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Animal Poison Control Center can help too. In 2007, the ASPCA Center assisted 7,200 callers with concerns involving common household cleaners. Gastrointestinal distress and irritation to the skin, eyes or respiratory tract may be possible if a curious animal has an inappropriate encounter with such products. If you have not had a chance to look at the ASPCA video on poisoning take a minute to check it out now at the links below.


Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/Cat-Poisoning---7-Reasons-Not-To-Induce-Vomiting-If-Your-Cat-Is-Poisoned/144621

Tips for Removing Cat Urine from Carpet

Did your cat urinate on your carpet? Quick action along with the correct steps are needed for removing cat urine from your carpet.

You first must remove as much urine from the carpet as possible. Be sure to wet stains that have already dried with water so that you can get some of the urine out. Heat should not be used since the stain and odor could be set permanently in your carpeting. White towels or white paper towels should be used to soak up the urine as colored ones could leave color on your carpet. Books or other heavy objects should be placed on top of the towels so that urine down in the pad will be removed, too. Using your foot to apply pressure is not advisable as you may get urine on your shoe and track it onto clean carpeting.

Next, a specially formulated cat urine removal cleaner should be used after the carpet has dried. Common household cleaners should not be used since the urine needs to be broken down by a chemical process, or the odor will remain. The best cleaner to use will contain enzymes, chemicals, bacteria or a combination of the three to completely remove the smell. Products containing ammonia should not be used as your cat may interpret the smell of ammonia to be cat urine and continue to urinate on that section of carpet.

Before applying the cleaner to your carpet, do a test run on a hidden piece of carpet. The stained place along with the surrounding carpet should be soaked thoroughly with the cleaner. Plastic wrap or foil should be placed over the treated area so the carpet stays wet longer giving the cleaner a longer time to work.

When the carpet is dry, baking soda can be sprinkled over the spot and then vacuumed up. Now, check to see if the cat urine odor is completely gone. If not, repeat the steps above, and treat a larger area in case part of the padding was missed.

If two treatments don't eradicate the odor, you may have to replace the padding. Treat the subfloor with sealant before laying a new pad to prevent the urine from soaking into the concrete or wood underneath the pad.

Through persistence and use of the correct cat urine remover, you have a high chance of succeeding in removing cat urine from your carpet.


Source: http://www.thecontentcorner.com/Article/Tips-for--Removing-Cat-Urine-from-Carpet/62227

Wednesday, March 19, 2008

Horse Training Secrets - The Right Training Age

If you make a compilation about secrets on training young horses, you would end up with a book thicker than a dictionary. There was never any scarcity on tips about training young horses; and like opinions, most of these advice may never have been proven to be wrong or right. Really, these facts are important for horse trainers in their pursuit to develop a young horse's personality and physical characteristics.

For those who are beginning horse training, the sheer number of tips on training young horses can drive them to madness. The many principle and techniques that exist can be conflicting to each other; making the confusion more obvious. However, to really learn on training young horses, a person must be open to trying out diverse techniques by combining different horse training routines. For generations, the following are some of the most popular but effective training tips practiced by so many trainers for young horses.

Five years old is the average age that a horse can start training. Although horses are still very young at this age and therefore should not be trained strickly since at this age, a severe training program can harm their physical development. At this age, we should focus on letting the horse feel what it is like under the saddle.

Any horse training regimen depends on the breed of the horse that you are training. Like humans, horses have fast and slow learners. For example, the mountain horse, which can be trained under the saddle as early as two years of age. Or the Arabians, which are especially slow on their development; Therefore, at two years old, they can barely be trained for anything yet. Even under one breed, individual horses still have their own development rate; knowing this will make you able to change your horse training program accordingly.

Even though horses can start training at two or five years old, young horses should in no way experience a training program that is destined for fully-grown horses. Training sessions for younger horses must begin with fifteen to thirty minutes of training periods.

In the training of young horses, the training environment has a very important role. For example, deep layers of soft sand in the riding ring might not be a good idea for young horses as they will have to pull harder to move their feet out of the sand. Also, it could be stressful for a young horse's developing legs to train in an incline ground; therefore, it's better to use a level field.


Source: http://www.thecontentcorner.com/Article/Horse-Training-Secrets---The-Right-Training-Age/61302

Are You Doing All You Can to Help Your Dog?

To help a puppy fit into the family scene he needs to understand there is a daily schedule. This takes into account the times of feeding, exercise, training and outdoor airings. These events begin the bonding process. If there is no schedule a pet can become a pest continually asking for his needs to be met.

A newly adopted dog will be extremely nervous about his new environment until he understands where and when meals are served, where the water dish is located, what is his territory, where does he sleep, and understanding his place of refuge both in the house and outside.

if you do not carefully show your dog how and where to fulfill these basic needs, he will decide for himself and take over you and your home.

Your dog needs to understand that you are the boss. Training is the key to establishing yourself as the boss. Repeating the same words and phrases every day will help. Making training sessions the big event of the day will cement that understanding.

When giving obedience lessons your choice of training equipment can make the difference in a successful outcome. For example, the dumbbell is the tool used to help your dog understand the fetch command. Reviewing each new command until it becomes a habit is the way to help your dog retain the skill.

If you are working with a puppy give lessons of short duration for the first six months. That strategy is to help keep your pup enthusiastic about the lesson. Other common mistakes are expecting too much too soon, working off-leash, and stopping the obedience lessons after a short course.

Your dog is like a teenager and will continually test you up to two years of age. You may have worked very hard on a particular lesson, and it appears your dog cannot understand it. But do not give up. I have found just when I am ready to throw in the towel my dog suddenly performs that lesson perfectly.

Dogs have a special gift that is unique to their species. They are born with an innate desire to please. No food is necessary to accomplish lessons. Rewards of dog biscuits are suggested only for housebreaking and crate-training. In all other instances, dogs will work their hearts out for the big prize of hearing the words good dog. Showing your dog what you want and praising when he performs well is the way to best help your dog.

In conclusion, construct and continue a daily schedule which includes a walk. Teach your dog words and obedience needed for communication. The most helpful thing you could do for your dog as he grows older is a daily 10 minute basic obedience session. This is because lesson time is when your dog has 100 per cent of you. Your complete focus on him is what your dog craves. It seems little to give for so much to receive from your dog in terms of affection and loyalty.


Source: http://www.therealarticles.com/Article/Are-You-Doing-All-You-Can-to-Help-Your-Dog-/144340

How To Identify Birds - Few Good Guidelines

Bird watching is one of the most relaxing and pleasurable hobbies. But to be a excellent bird watcher you have to know what kind of bird you are looking for and at. There are many resources that will teach you how to identify birds. There are many books for bird watching that will teach you how to identify birds from their color to the trees in which they live. It is a more enjoyable pastime if you first know what type of bird you are watching. These basic information will appear in the books that are written specifically for persons fascinated by bird watching.

There are a variety of things which can be learned by reading about birds, from their natural habitat, where birds congregate, and what colors they generally are. There are many bird refuges in the United States that are great places for bird watchers. There are walking trails with signs on how to identify birds in most of the refuges. Sometimes there are gift shops there, which will sell books particularly focused on the birds you can see there.

Like it often happens, a great source of knowledge can come from other bird watchers who have been at their hobby for a while. Experts like these will teach you how to identify birds as well as showing you where to look and they can also tell interesting stories about bird watching. The Web has almost endless resources for those interested in birds, whether you are an avid bird watcher or doing a school report on various types of birds.

One thing which can help you in how to identify birds is a good pair of binoculars. Obviously you will be able to see the characteristics of the bird and then identify it by seeing the bird more up close. Most bird watchers have a good pair of binoculars as it is the main tool in how to identify birds. Ask any bird watcher what kind or binoculars are great for bird watching because there are quite a few different types of binoculars and some specifically for bird watching.

As it generally means a nice walk in nature, the hobby of bird watching can be an enjoyable one. Bird watching can be even that much more enjoyable if you are well versed in the hobby and know how to identify birds.

You might even be capable of offering some insight to others nearby when they spot a bird in a tree. It will make you feel good to have the knowledge to explain the type of bird they watched along with some of its characteristics. At the same time you'll be expanding your own interests, which is never a bad thing. Now grab those brand new binoculars and go have fun!


Source: http://www.thecontentcorner.com/Article/How-To-Identify-Birds---Few-Good-Guidelines/61516

Friday, March 7, 2008

Pet Products For Hamsters

Many people that bought hamsters for their children did not heed the warnings of the pet store. They failed to check the sexes of all hamsters that they bought later on to put into one cage and now are faced with a multitude of hamsters on their hands that they are afraid that they can not care for properly. With a few pet products for hamsters in the cage, the hamsters will seem like one large family.

There are pet products for hamsters that are perfectly suited for creating a great environment for baby hamsters and homeowners do not have to worry about having so many of them in the cage either. One popular product for hamsters is hamster grass and this product should be liberally applied to the bottom of a hamster cage so that it is at least 4 inches deep. This pet product should be changed out once a week because hamsters soil the grass with urine and feces.

The only time that hamster grass is not replaced is when a hamster has given birth. There are hamster pet products that are birthing compartments. Some homeowners might not realize the birth occurred because the mother hamster will conceal the babies underneath her body for weeks. A pet owner will know if a hamster is pregnant if they watch them routinely during the course of a week.

It will be a good idea to watch hamsters very carefully because another cage will be needed to transfer hamsters to when a mother hamster is breeding. A fish tank is an excellent pet product for fish that works well as a living environment for a hamster. The lighting used for fish will serve to keep hamsters warm but care must be taken to use a bulb suitable for growing plants so that it will not burn their eyes.

Other hamster pet products that are standard for any hamster are water tubes. These tubes can be easily refilled and hung at various places around the cage to allow all hamsters access to a water source. There are many watering products for hamsters and it is up to the taste of the individual owner on which one is best.

Hamsters are natural escape artists and born to explore at every opportunity. A handy pet product for hamsters that will keep your hamster Houdini inside the cage are made of mesh or plastic coverings which can be purchased at many pet stores.

Some people that use fish tanks as a living environment choose to use hamster pet products like fish covers which have locking mechanisms on them that are perfect for keeping a hamster inside where they belong.

There are exercise wheels that are hamster pet products for fitness and happiness. Hamsters are cold natured and will run for long periods of time. Some people think that they are exercising but they are really trying to raise their body temperatures so that they can be comfortable. Some hamster wheels are quite large and care might have to be taken to ensure that all hamsters have enough room to roam about at will.

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Source: http://www.pcwriters.com/Article/Pet-Products-For-Hamsters/99072

Thursday, March 6, 2008

The Take-Off In Show Jumping Explained

Bromley Davenport's words in his Dream of the old Meltonian are very apt when describing the take-off of a horse in show jumping. The quotation, "With your muscular quarters beneath you collected," describes a state of affairs eminently desirable at the take-off. The rider has made arrangements for the horse to commence his jump from the spot best suited for the fence in question, and must now ensure that he does not interfere with the drive from the hind legs into the air, but, in fact, assist by preserving balance.

Loss of rhythm and coordination now may well adversely affect the parabola it is hoped the horse will describe. So it is important that the rider move his weight forward smoothly without displacement of the lower leg; that his fingers and hands, being supple and separated sufficiently to allow of instantaneous independent action, keep an even feeling on the horse's mouth, following the natural movement of the head and neck; and that he looks forward along his chosen route for the next approach phase, which is not far away.

When a horse is taking off well, its forelegs are bent up from the knee, and the hocks, having come well under him, are, with great power, propelling him into the air. The rider is comfortable, is looking well forward, and is giving complete freedom to the back and loins. His hands are ideally placed for independent action if required, and are moving slightly back to retain an even feeling on the horse's mouth. There is no interference with the horse's natural movement, and the general impression is one of workmanlike efficiency.

There is a school of thought whose contention is that a distinct increase in feeling on the mouth, amounting at times to a definite pull, should be exerted as the hind legs come to the ground for the last time before the take-off, with the object of helping the forehand into the air. For some types of fence, notably those of parallel variety, it is, without doubt, beneficial. There are, however, dangers to it.

One, for instance, is that the horse may well take off when it is the rider's intention to shorten stride close to the fence. In some cases the pull acts on the rider, bringing his leg to a standing position with the stirrup-iron as pivot, and drawing his hands back against his ribs, where they cannot act lightly or independently. The jump will be jerky and unharmonious, with a real danger of loss of balance on landing.

In the final stages of take off, the horse gives final propulsion from the near hind leg. His forelegs are well tucked up, and he is beginning to stretch his head and neck out to gain distance, and to help the hind quarters up. The rider is well with his horse, and is master of the situation. His hands are separated, ready to give all the rein required. If, perhaps, showing a little rigidity at the knee, he is nevertheless nicely balanced, and his position shows ease and fluency. His concentration on things to come is very apparent.

When final propulsion has been completed all but the near hind toe has left the ground. The head and neck are stretching out, and the forelegs are folded up as close as the body allows. The rider's weight distribution is assisting the horse's effort, and the hands conform to the outward and downward movement of the head. Note that, from the horse's mouth to the rider's hip, the rein, arm, and body should form practically a straight line. This is the completion of a beautifully controlled and elegant jump.

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Source: http://www.pcwriters.com/Article/The-Take-Off-In-Show-Jumping-Explained/98960

Wednesday, March 5, 2008

Indestructible Dog Toys - Fact or Fiction?

Several years ago, we owned a Dalmatian that went through normal dog toys faster than rain water through a down spout. We would buy him toys and buy him toys but they never seemed to last much more than a month. In some cases they would be gone in a week.

This got me into what's called indestructible dog toys - or tough dog toys - capable of keeping your pooch happy and gnawing away for months.

What I eventually discovered is that, to be honest, no dog toy is completely indestructible except maybe one made out of cast iron - assuming your dog would be happy with a cast iron chew toy. The fact is aggressive chewers like our Dalmatian will eventually chew up even the toughest of toys.

However, "indestructible" dog toys are better than standard dog toys simply because they end up costing you less because they last so much longer.

Here are the costs of three typical tough dog toys:

Stone Bone Durable Dog Toy -- $12.95
Hurley Indestructible Dog Toy -- $8.99
Kong Original Red Tuffy -- $8.99 for the large size

While that may seem a bit on the high side vs. toys that can cost $2.00 or less, these chew toys are really a bargain when you consider how long one will last versus cheap plush toys.

What to look for in a tough dog toy

Round dog toys are better than flat ones because it's just more difficult for a dog to destroy a round one than a flat one. Second, look for a toy made out of polyethylene as this tends to be stronger and harder to destroy - even by strong dogs such as our Dalmatian or a German Shepard. Also, make sure it won't splinter or fall apart and cut the dog's mouth or get swallowed and cause a gastric obstruction

Third, consider what your dog thinks is fun. Does it like to play tug-a-war or does it like to fetch things? If so, look for a toy that's chewable but also easy to throw. If your dog likes the water, get a toy that will float. On the other hand, if your dog likes to just lay around and chew, then the toy's durability should be your number one priority.

Also, the toy shouldn't be so small your dog could swallow it but not so big he or she can't handle it. You might also ask yourself how easy it would be to clean or wash.

If your dog is big into chewing, like our Dalmatian, you should consider a rubber toy like the Kong or the Nylabone or the Hurley Indestructible Dog Toy. While these toys are not truly indestructible, they will keep your dog chewing happily for many months.

What not to give your aggressive chewer

If your dog is a heavy chewer, you should stay away from stuffed dog toys or rope toys. These will eventually come apart and your dog could end up swallowing loose bits of rope, stuffing or even plastic eyes. And believe me, some dogs will swallow just about anything. Our Dalmatian once swallowed one of my wife's knee-high stockings and it plugged him up like a cork in a bottle. It cost us more than $500 to get him "unstuck."

Finally, be sure to check the dog toys from time to time for signs of wear. If the toy is looking frayed or seems ready to fall apart, just throw it away. You might also remember to rotate the dog toys from time to time to keep your dog interested.

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Source: http://www.pcwriters.com/Article/Indestructible-Dog-Toys---Fact-or-Fiction-/99105

Learning The Cat Language In 10 Easy Lessons

Ever wonder why your cat rubs against your leg? Cats speak to us mainly through body language. Each cat is different, but here are some basic cat body language signs and what they mean:

1. Eyes Half Closed - If you are talking to your cat and she looks back at you squinting her eyes, she is listening to you.

2. Tail Straight Up - This is a sign of a very happy cat.

3. Stiff Quick Upward Flick of the Tail - This is how cats say "hello" to both humans and other cats.

4. Lashing the Tail -You have a mad kitty on your hands!

5. Belly Up - This is a huge compliment from a cat, this means the cat trusts you completely.

6. Fur Standing Straight Up - This is a frightened cat, the fur standing on end is supposed to make the cat look larger and more tough.

7. Rubbing Against an Object - Cats have scent glands in their forehead, mouth and chin, they rub objects with their scent to mark it as theirs.

8. Flattened Ears - This is a sign of an annoyed cat or a frightened cat.

9. "Pawing" or "Kneading" At You- This is a sign of a very content happy kitty.

10. Clawing at Furniture or Cat scratching post- If your cat is de-clawed, she is leaving her scent on the object. If your cat has her claws, she is sharpening her claws. When this behavior is displayed in front of other cats, kitty is showing off and expressing self confidence.

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Source: http://www.pcwriters.com/Article/Learning-The-Cat-Language-In-10-Easy-Lessons/99617

Correct any kind of upsetting behavior with dog training collars

Using a dog training collar is an efficient and safe way to correct your dog's unpleasant behavior. There are several types of dog training collars on the market, but they all operate according to the same system. The dogs learns in time to associate the unwanted behavior such as barking or going places it does not have permission to with a harmless yet unpleasant reaction generated by the training collar.

Initially, people developed dog training collars for hunting dogs. Those were shock-training collars. Such collars released a high level of electric current each time the dog misbehaved. These shock collars have undergone many modifications to be less cruel and painful to animals, but the controversy remains. Although such collars are not recommendable and are even under ban in some countries, they still exist on the market and are capable of releasing different levels of current. There is a lot of controversy surrounding shock-training collars and many people suggest to owners to try them on themselves before putting them on their dogs.

Recent studies have shown that dogs subjected to wearing an electric training collar have high levels of stress and are nervous around people, sometimes even attacking out of fear of shock. Since the apparition of electric dog training collars, many developments have taken place, which no longer hurt the dog physically, but make him uncomfortable by spraying a jet of scented air or water into the animal's face.

Your pet will be so amazed and startled by the noise and sensation released by the dog training collar that it will stop barking. Barking is the dog's natural way of noticing against potential dangers and scaring off threats. Dogs also bark to communicate with other dogs or with their owners. However, such behavior can become upsetting if every little thing triggers it.

Dog training collars are available for small or large dogs and the jet spray can have an unpleasant odor such as lemon, citronella or mustard. Some dog training collars do not have unpleasant odors because they emit a cold jet onto the dog's neck to distract it from the unwanted behavior.

The market has seen the development of a new kind of dog training collar that emits sounds that only dogs can hear and that bother them. These ultrasonic collars are just as effective as citronella collars and electric collars and gradually replace electric collars.

These canine training collars use either sound or vibration to determine whether the dog is barking or not. The best ones use both types of sensors, so they do not accidentally release the spray because of outside sounds. You can use such training collars to confine your pet's access to particular areas of your yard such as flower or vegetable beds. These invisible fences are very successful and your dog's behavior will meet its adjustment in no time.

If you have tried everything to stop your dog from barking or digging up your flowers and nothing has worked, you should try a gentle dog training collar that just takes your dog by surprise and stops it from misbehaving. Improve the behavior of your dog by training it with the aid of a dog training collar that you can choose from a wide range of harmless and yet helpful dog training collars.

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Source: http://www.pcwriters.com/Article/Correct-any-kind-of-upsetting-behavior-with-dog-training-collars/99351

How to Begin Obedience Training for Your Dog

Simple commands such as "Come," "Sit," and "Lie down" should be taught at three to four months of age. Your puppy will learn very quickly to come when he is called if every time he answers the call, he receives a pleasant reward such as a piece of meat, dog candy, or a word of praise.

He will quickly learn the command "Sit" if his head is held high and a little pressure is applied to his hindquarters. He will learn the meaning of "Lie Down" if you press on his shoulders and pull down on his collar. When you do these things, keep telling the puppy that he is a "Good Boy."

The young puppy should learn not to pull on the leash. Use an ordinary leather collar for this training and tug gently on the leash until the puppy learns not to pull ahead.

When you train your dog obedience at six months, you need a chain slip collar for the big strong dog.

A chain leather one or a nylon slip collar is needed for the small dog or the puppy.

You need a leash a foot longer than you are tall. Get one with strong leather. A round one or a chain leash will hurt your hands.

How to Hold the Leash

Take the leash in BOTH hands. Hold your hands close to your body and keep your left elbow straight.

Know Your Dog's Temperament

Handle the shy dog gently. Gain his confidence through encouragement and praise. Pep up the lazy worker. Move quickly yourself and your dog will move quickly. If your dog is a clown, speak more sharply and correct with firmness. If he is stubborn, make each correction more severe.

While training, keep your dog's attention. When he looks away, nudge him with your knee. When he sniffs the ground, give the leash a tug. For all corrections, snap the leash! Never drag on it.

For best results, praise your dog when you give him a command. Praise him when you use the leash.

Heeling

Heeling means to walk at your side without pulling. Every time your dog passes your knee, say "Heel," jerk the leash backward, and pat your side to encourage him to stay close.

If he passes your knee a second time, stand still and jerk the leash harder!

If your dog holds back instead, don't jerk the leash. Pull on it gently and keep saying "Good Boy! Good Boy!" After he takes a few steps, slacken the leash and pat your side.

While training, stand up straight and don't slow up when you turn!

Don't let your dog play with the leash. Don't let him climb on you.

Before long your dog will understand that if he runs ahead or darts off to the side, he will hear the word "Heel!" and feel a sharp tug on his collar. If he stays close to your knee, praise him and pat him.

Sitting

To make your dog sit, shorten the leash in your right hand and pull up. Say "Sit!" and push on his hindquarters with your left hand. Dogs like to be praised, so while you make him sit, tell him he is a good boy.

If he braces himself, spank him once on his rear and tell him more firmly "SIT!" Now pat him with the same hand you spanked him with so he will think you spanked him in play. At the same time, push his hips over. Make him sit straight!!

In time and with patience, your dog will become accustomed to all of these commands, and will obey.

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Source: http://www.pcwriters.com/Article/How-to-Begin-Obedience-Training-for-Your-Dog/99213

Dog House Mats and Heaters - That Time is Just About Here

It's starting to get cold in our part of the country and if you live in the West, East or Midwest, you're probably also feeling a chill and may already be thinking about dog house mats and heaters.

Our dogs spend their nights in the house, but how about yours? If your dog sleeps in a dog house, you need to ask yourself how warm and safe it will be as the weather grows colder and colder?

Our winters are cold but generally on the mild side. And our dogs spend most nights inside. So keeping them warm is usually not an issue. But if you live in a very cold part of the world, and your dog house is not super-insulated, you should be thinking about adding a dog house mat or heater to your doghouse - to make sure your dog stays healthy and comfortable no matter the weather.

Dog house heaters

Dog house heaters come in two types. The first is heater only and is for places like Minnesota where the summers normally do not get terribly hot. The second is a heater/cooler for those areas where the winters are very cold and the summers very hot - think North Dakota or parts of Montana.

Dog house heater only

One heater I found, The Hound Heater I, is 5.5" x 5.5" x 5.5") and is said to produce dry, reliable heat. When it's zero degrees Fahrenheit outside, the dog house will stay around 40-degrees F. This manufacturer also offers a small version called the Hound Heater II. It uses a light bulb to keep the unit's temperature at a constant 130 degrees when the outside temperature is below freezing. The manufacturer says, "The best part is, it is so safe and easy to install. It is made out of galvanized metal so it is super strong and will last for many years. The cost of Hound Heater I is $54.95 and Hound Heater II is $52.95.

Combination dog house heater/cooler

A combination heater/cooler is great for areas that are both cold in the winter and hot in the summer. There is apparently only one of these available - the portable PetCool unit. This unit looks very easy to install with 2500 BTU heating and cooling capacity. The manufacturer says that it "adjusts automatically to maintain a constant comfortable range of temperatures both as a dog house heater for winter and dog house air conditioner for summer, while also providing additional functionality as a de-humidifier lowering humidity levels 70%."

Be forewarned that the PetCool is not cheap with a price tag of $415.95.

Heated mats and throws

If your part of the country gets cold but doesn't get below zero for many days, then a good way to heat a dog house (and the dog) is with a heated mat or pad. The advantages of a heated pad are that it requires no maintenance, has no moving parts to get out of whack, is completely safe and can also be used in an unheated garage and basement. Most heated pads have an internal thermostat and some manufacturers offer an optional temperature control rheostat for heat adjustment.

Another alternative is to buy your dog its own heated throw or dog bed. A heated throw will cost about $73 for a large size.

The cost of a heated pad varies from $43.59 for the small size up to $66.99 for the large. A thermo throw will normally cost about $73 for the large size.

In other words, it won't cost you an arm and a leg to keep that best friend snug and comfortable all winter.

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Source: http://www.pcwriters.com/Article/Dog-House-Mats-and-Heaters---That-Time-is-Just-About-Here/99121

Pet Stroller Site Provides Fun Substitute for Pet Wheelchairs

For pets that weigh less than 25 pounds, Pet Stroller Mart has a fantastic range of wonderful strollers so that both you and your pet can get around quickly and readily. You can go with a stroller that has a more classic carriage, or decide on a polished pet stroller or a fashionable stroller. Even though these pet strollers are created for smaller, lighter animals, they are still made with the same lasting superiority of Pet Stroller Mart's other offerings for large pets.

Even if your pet isn't ailing, a pet stroller has the ability to make it nearly effortless to transport your animal in case they get weary on long walks, especially lighter, smaller animals. A lot of people assume that these are solely dog or cat strollers, but really, they can be for any assortment of small to mid-sized pets, like lizards, monkeys or even ferrets. This sort of animals could better benefit from a pet stroller that is enclosed.

For example, if you have got two pets that you need to transport at the same time, http://www.petstrollermart.com has a fabulous Double Decker stroller than could efficiently transport both of your animals at the same time. You don't need to bring carriers either, as both compartments come apart easily and quickly and serve as carriers themselves. Further, the stroller easily folds for storage or moving.

Hurt pets usually may have to get around in wheelchairs for pets, and despite the fact those chairs may be fairly healthful to animals in terms of exercise, various other options are out there, primarily if the pet becomes weary, or is just briefly not able to use a wheelchair. This is where disabled pets might be helped by a pet stroller. And actually,, a pet stroller could truly end up fairly valuable, to the animal, in addition to the owner.

Pet Strollers have just lately begun to be popular, but very few pet stores will offer products such as these, and shops that do, offer them at a high price. Pet Stroller Mart has begun providing strollers for pets that come in an assortment of designs, sizes and colors to fit a lot of habitats, and pet types. And don't forget price range. If you and your pets live in a city or in the country , Pet Stroller Mart pet strollers are designed to comfortably get through all surroundings, and really make it nearly effortless to bring pets where you want them to be.

The versatility of the pet strollers carried by Pet Stroller Mart is the thing that truly allows their products to stand out from the rest. As an example, they even stock a fantastic three in one pet stroller that basically is a pet carrier, car seat for a pet, and even a pet stroller. And this is one of the primary advantages of Pet Stroller Mart pet strollers, they can save you money because you won't need to buy other pet storage items. All Pet strollers from Pet Stroller Mart are nearly effortless to maintain and keep clean, and are created for simple fold down and storing. The poly/cotton mesh provides added safety and air ventilation when you transport you pet. So explore http://www.PetStrollerMart.com today to see about their unmatched collection and great prices on pet strollers. Free shipping is included with all items.

Pet Stroller Mart from Pet Stroller Mart offer the opportunity to bring your family pet with you everywhere your travels take you. Pet Strollers from PetStrollerMart are perfect for disabled or weak pets, puppies, small dogs, cats, small animals, and older pets with arthritic joints or hip problems.



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Source: http://www.rightarticle.com/Article/Pet-Stroller-Site-Provides-Fun-Substitute-for-Pet-Wheelchairs/99475

Tuesday, March 4, 2008

The Wonders Of A Cat's Whiskers

Cats' whiskers are as interesting as a cat itself. The top and bottom rows of cats' whiskers move separately, helping them to use them as wind detectors and as aids in locating the source of odors. Whiskers are also part of a system that allows cats to detect atmospheric weather changes that mean a storm or even an earthquake is headed its way.

Cat's whiskers work like antennae, they help your kitty feel what she cannot see. Although cats see better than humans in the dark, it is a myth that cats have superior night vision. What truly is the case is that their whiskers help to guide them in the dark.

Cats whiskers also help keep a cat balanced. In addition, a cat uses it's whiskers with prey. A cat with a mouse in its mouth will touch the mouse with its whiskers, checking to see if it is safe to put the mouse down without it running away.

On top of all of this, your cat's whiskers speak to you! Cat's say a lot with their whiskers!

Here are a few of their meanings:

1. Drooping Whiskers- Kitty is bored or unhappy, she may even feel sick
2. Twitching Whiskers- Kitty is checking out her surroundings for food or another animal.
3. Whiskers Extended Outward From Mouth And Spread Far Apart- Kitty is happy and calm.
4. Whiskers Pulled Back Tight Along The Face- Kitty is either unhappy or feeling aggressive.
5. Bunched Whiskers Flattened Toward The Face- Kitty is shy or frightened of something.

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Source: http://www.pcwriters.com/Article/The-Wonders-Of-A-Cat-s-Whiskers/99618

Monday, March 3, 2008

Breeding Fish Can Be A Rewarding Part Of Your Hobby

Fish are a wonderful pet to have around, particularly if you like to have a tropical touch in your home decorating. If you have a few fish and would like to have more you should probably check out information on fish breeding. It is hard to describe the feeling you get when you see those brand new baby fish swimming around your tank for the first time. This article will look at a few tips to help get you started in the right direction.

As you check out all the different fish tanks at your local pet store you may notice that some fish get along with each other better than others. This could be a good type of fish to try your hand at breeding. Talk it over with the pet store to see how much trouble the fish you choose will be to breed. Some types of fish are easy to breed while others may be more challenging.

If you want to be a successful fish breeder all of the tank conditions need to be as close to right as you can get them. The water temperature and nitrogen levels need to be correct. If your levels are not correct this will tend to stress your fish out which will make it hard for them to successfully breed. When the fish lay eggs the process is called spawning and the male fish often guards the eggs. You will probably be surprised at the number of fish that will come from these eggs.

Talking to the owner of the pet store will help you know what types of food to feed both the babies and the adult fish. Most of the time flake food works well for freshwater fish, but you need to keep the flakes small. Live food such as shrimp may be good for some species of fish but you need to find out what type of food your fish will do well with before starting to breed fish.

Do your homework and get all of the information you need before you get started breeding fish. Talk to your local pet store owner about everything you can think of and ask a lot of questions and your success rate will be much higher.

Breeding fish can be one of the most rewarding things you can do with your hobby. Start slow and start right and before you know it you will have many new fish swimming around your tank.

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Source: http://www.pcwriters.com/Article/Breeding-Fish-Can-Be-A-Rewarding-Part-Of-Your-Hobby/101217

Stopping Your Dog From Barking

Though we have looked at training a few different ways in previous articles you will find that in this article of training importance we are looking at a few specific behaviours of dogs. There are some dogs that tend to bark a lot more than other dog breeds. If you are aware of the proper training and take the time to train your dog you will not have to worry about much of the barking. This can be important to you as well as your neighbours based on the fact that many like the peace and quite, rather than incessant dog barking. So how do you go about training out some things a dog just does instinctively?

Well the answer to that is really more in line with behaviour training. You will need to start the training as early as possible. In other words once the dog breed has been weaned from its mother you will want to enter the dog into training. You can go about training in a few different ways. If you feel you are a confident owner that exhibits patience and a consistent hand you may wish to purchase a manual and look on dog training sites for the information. This is one method and most usually the least effective. While books can help during training for dog barking and other instinctual behaviours you really want a professional that will teach you obedience as well as other training methods for your dog. The best approach to any training is going to be a combined method. You also should keep aware that training should never stop. Even though you have been successful in training a dog will go back to the instincts they were born with over training if you don't keep with the training regiment. Most training is considered a daily exercise along with the actual physical exercise the dog needs.

So now that we have looked at training methods let's look at behaviour training a little more in depth. Behaviour training is not just obedience. With behaviour training you are trying to teach the dog the response you would like to have. If the dog barks for know reason you should not reward the behaviour with petting. In actuality you need to discourage the behaviour. Yelling is not a way to do this. You need to find something that the dog does not like. For example with cats water is a good deterrent for bad behaviour because they don't like to be wet. For dogs, it can differ depending on the breed, but usually a tone of voice, that is still at the normal level or the word no will be sufficient to get the bad behaviour stopped when you consider the training you are imparting. Remember that you also want to reward for good behaviour. Good behaviour can be the response to the "no" command you have issued. In other words if the dog ceases the barking and lies down instead you can reward them with a "good dog" or a little rub. Treats should be left for special occasions during training.

It can take a few months to get a dog trained to not bark. In some cases dogs will still bark when they hear the approach of a car or stranger. This can be good if they learn to bark once to alert you and then quiet down again. If they continue the insistent barking you may need to continue training. Remember so behaviour's are instinctive so that behaviour training must over ride these senses to be effective.

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Source: http://www.pcwriters.com/Article/Stopping-Your-Dog-From-Barking/100481