Saturday, December 27, 2008

Dealing with Your Cat's Litter Box Issues

Beside a cat’s natural instinct to remove itself from the unpleasant smell of its litter box, you could be to blame for some of the litter box difficulties your cat is experiencing. A cat’s sense of smell is much more sensitive than yours. Therefore, don’t put off cleaning the cat box until you can't stand the stench. Clean it before your pet decides to shun it and look for another location to do her business.

When it comes to cat litter, cats are wary of change. If she’s become comfortable with a certain brand that you've being using since she was a kitten, and you abruptly change to a different product that's quite different, she may decide to stop using her litter box entirely until you restore the status quo.

There are lots of reasons why your cat may decide not to use her litter box. If she tinkles on the carpet and you lose your temper and place her firmly in the litter box while yelling, you'll contribute to her aversion. Associating the litter box with anger will influence your cat to go elsewhere to do her business.

Another common mistake is to locate the litter box in the middle of the room. This causes your kitty to feel exposed, and cats prefer their privacy while taking care of their business. The same goes for placing the litter box near a window or on the front porch because they can be seen by other animals, which can frighten your cat or distract her from the task at hand. Try tucking the litter box into a corner or a closet to and monitor it to find out if she's more at ease with the new litter box location.

There are cats that are particularly picky when it comes to their bodily functions. She may decide that she won't defecate and urinate in the same litter box. So if you notice that one of these functions is taking place outside the box, your only recourse is to buy another one. Even though it might seem strange that your cat needs separate potties, your only consideration should be that you don't want to clean up her mess.

If you own more than one cat, you might discover that one of them is territorial when it comes to the litter box. The bigger or older cat might be aggressively keeping the smaller or newer one away from the box. Just buy another box and don’t try to solve the problem.

If you have a new kitten in the house, keep in mind that you need a smaller litter box to accommodate him. Just like toddlers are too small for the regular toilet and need a potty seat, a kitten will have a hard time climbing into a full size litter box, and he'll end up getting frustrated and disinclined to use it. Get a small box that's better suited to the size of your kitten.

Thursday, December 25, 2008

The American Pit Bull Terrier

The American Pit Bull Terrier is quite dissimilar from his smaller cousins. This breed resulted from a cross between the Terrier and the Bulldog, which took place in Britain in the mid-1800s. So they have features of both breeds, but the end result is a very distinctive dog.

An American Pit Bull Terrier usually weighs around 45 to 60 pounds (20 to 27 kilograms) and is about 20 to 24 inches (45 to 54 centimeters) in height at the shoulder. Its coat is typically dense and short, with gray and beige the most common coloring, although a number of them are also white. They'll normally live to be around 10 to 12 years old, if they are well cared for. Their bodies are muscular and they need plenty of exercise in order to remain not just fit but calm. Their eyes are almost triangular in shape.

These are fighting dogs that were developed for fierceness, power and daring, useful qualities in a hunting dog. However, these characteristics are also very desirable in illegal sports like dog fights and bull-baiting. Because of this violent reputation, which isn't always warranted, it's against the law to breed or sell these dogs in the United Kingdom and Canada. In the United States and Australia, many regions will permit these dogs as pets but place restrictions on them, like the use of a muzzle when taking the dog off the property.

The American pitbull terrier is a combination in more ways than its lineage. Some selective breeding has attempted to get rid of the breed's aggressive behavior towards humans, while maintaining it in reaction to other animals. But the complete opposite is desired if the dog is to be a watchdog. So training an American Pit Bull Terrier involves consistency and much caution.

Their reputation for attacking people is frequently overplayed, although it does happen. The training program will play a big part in the dog's final behavior. This is interesting, because the behavior of many other terrier breeds is shaped by the training, but the dog still retains most of its instinctive behavior.

Luckily for lovers of this breed, the American Pit Bull Terrier can certainly be trained. They are highly intelligent, athletic, and possess great stamina. They're exceptional on the obstacle course and make excellent border patrol or police dogs, excelling at sniffing for explosives and drugs. Due to their intelligence and strength, they are also well suited to a role as a service dog to deaf individuals. They can be skilled at keeping their companion from harm. These days, their typical job is usually somewhat more conventional. They're often employed as watchdogs, which they do well.

Although they can be aggressive, most owners of this breed realize that their pet is friendly, loyal and loving. American Pit Bull Terriers love to play and will fetch a Frisbee or a ball endlessly. Once again, this demonstrates their flexible nature which is largely an outcome of their training and early experiences.

Learn more about this breed

Saturday, December 20, 2008

Getting Started With Dog Training

Every dog owner needs to start dog training just as soon as their pet is old enough to comprehend your commands. An untrained dog is a very stressful pet to own, since you never know what they'll do next and who they might hurt. An untrained dog is also at higher risk of injury and even death. So don't neglect this important aspect of dog ownership right from the beginning.

The first step towards dog training is helping your pet to learn basic instructions like 'no'. Then you can move on to simple commands such as 'sit' 'stay', and 'go'. But the most critical facet of dog training is to start as soon as possible. As your dog grows older it becomes much more difficult to correct bad habits. Starting early will guarantee that your dog learns appropriate behavior and doesn't develop any of those bad habits that you'll have to retrain out of him later on. And starting young also makes it much easier to train your dog.

However, keep in mind that it's important to be patient and take your time with dog training. Puppies in particular have short attention spans and you want to keep your lessons just the right length so they don't get frustrated or bored.
Only undertake a training session while your dog is paying attention to what you are teaching. The best way to approach this is to set up a routine that your dog can become accustomed to. For example, you can have a regular training session every morning for five minutes, another one in the afternoon and a final lesson in the evening.

There will be lots of bumps in the road as you travel along the path of dog training. Very frequently you will encounter problems in getting your dog to obey you. A common reason for experiencing problems is because your dog doesn't respect you and recognize you as its master. It may sound harsh, but the fact is that your dog needs to learn who's boss, and he won't unfailingly obey you until he has this figured out. This takes ongoing effort on your part, and you have to be consistent in your behavior and expectations.

Here's one of the ways that you can help your dog learn that his behavior is unacceptable. Say your dog has a problem with jumping up on people uninvited. Next time he does this, turn away from him to show him that such conduct is inappropriate. By turning your back you communicate to him that he is being rejected, and since dogs are pack animals by nature, he will strive to avoid any behavior that excludes him from the clan.

If you don't have the time required to train your dog properly, or you feel you don't have the skills or commitment required, you should think about sending your dog to a dog training school. Sometimes even the most dedicated dog owner has trouble teaching his dog to obey. This is where professional help can really make a difference between a well behaved pet and an out of control monster.

Tuesday, December 16, 2008

Tips for Getting a Pet Snake

Do reptiles make good pets? Some people consider snakes to be the ideal pet, despite the fact that these creatures don't offer the charm of purring, chirping or tail wagging. But snakes are very easy to take care of, requiring just a small tank and low maintenance.

The tranquil nature of snakes and their strikingly attractive patterns often help them win out over other pets like fish, for example, by people who want to add a new and unique element to their household. However, some pet snakes may be a mismatch for certain people, so make sure you do your research before making a purchase. If you are seriously considering buying a pet snake, here are a few tips to help you choose good beginner snakes.

There are many places where you can find pet snakes for sale. A good place to start is with an animal rescue organization or shelters. Pet owners who are looking for reptiles are not that common given the fact that snakes are not considered to be particularly enjoyable company, and few snakes find new homes under the circumstances.

Pet snakes are also available from reptile breeders. You can find such businesses in the classifieds or on the Internet. Find a snake forum online to help you locate a reptile breeder close to your home. The best deals with pet snakes for sale are those where you get the animal from someone who has really cared for it. You can also get a good personality description in these instances.

Most pet snakes being sold in stores these days are young ones because they are easier to transport and handle. Young snakes will also adapt better to their new surroundings when you bring them home. You can also find adult snakes for sale, usually from people who have to give them up because they can't properly maintain them or because they're moving and can't take the snake with them. Poisonous snakes as pets are too dangerous to have in the house, and no pet shop will sell you such specimens.

Before choosing a snake, learn as much as you can about the breed that you are interested in. Find out how big they grow, how they mate and their preferred habitat in order to create a healthy and safe environment for both your family and the pet. Prepare the tank for your new friend before bringing it home, so that it feels comfortable right from the beginning.

Monday, December 15, 2008

Watch Out for Tropical Fish Diseases

Tropical fish can be delightful to have in the home. Even though you want them to live as long as possible, at times they can be vulnerable to disease. Here's a look at some typical health issues that affect tropical fish and how to get rid of them so your little swimmers will flourish.

• Dropsy is a bacterial disease that targets the kidneys. Symptoms to watch for include bloating. The fish will also appear to have their fins sticking out. If detected in the early stages, you can easily treat this ailment with medications that will eliminate the bacterial infection and avert additional damage to the kidneys.

• Gas bubbles happen when the aquarium water is changed improperly, or if you top it up with water that’s too cold. These actions alter the gas pressure inside the tank and cause your fish to develop growths that resemble blisters. If you notice this happening, turn up the aeration speed and turn off the aquarium light in order to reduce the stress your fish are experiencing.

• Hemorrhagic septicemia is a bacterial problem that occurs in goldfish. It is distinguished by streaks on the fins that are dark red in color. They seem to just show up with no other indications of damage to the scales. An antibiotic treatment like tetracycline will take care of this problem. Check with an expert for recommendations on the best product.

• Ichthyophtirius, or Ick, is typified by small white spots on the body and fins that resemble grains of salt. This disease is considered to be parasitic and can be cured relatively easily if you catch it early. The most effective treatment is Malachite Green. This product is considered to be poisonous to the majority of invertebrates, but it is generally safe for tropical fish.

• Nitrate, ammonia and carbon dioxide poisoning can result from excessive waste products accumulating in the aquarium. This will raise the pH level of the water and lead to bacterial infections. To avoid this problem, don't neglect regular maintenance of your aquarium. Keep your tank clean, maintain the correct amount of aeration, make sure you're using the proper filters, and check the pH level of the water periodically if this is a potential risk for your particular breed of fish.

• Velvet is another parasitic disease which enters through an open wound and spreads to the gills. It manifests on the dorsal fins and is gray or yellow-brown in color. You might observe that your fish is scratching this area and panting. The problem can be treated with any commercial product available for this particular disease.

These are just a few of the health problems that your tropical fish could experience, and you might want to learn more. Regardless of how diligently you care for your fish, these ailments can still show up, so monitor your fish every day for any symptoms. If you nip the problem in the bud, they will be back to their usual selves in no time.

Sunday, December 14, 2008

Don't Neglect Your Dog's Regular Checkups

Dogs are believed to be man’s best friend and some people look at their dog as a member of their family. You probably make sure that your family visits a doctor regularly, because you care a great deal for them and would like to be sure they remain healthy. Your dog ought to be just the same. They have to see their physician on a regular basis also.

Many dog owners just take their dogs to the veterinarian if the dog is feeling poorly or has an injury. But it’s also essential that a dog visits the vet for regular medical checkups. Regular appointments with your vet can help you to avoid costly emergency visits.

Following are a few reasons why it's so critical that your dog receive regular medical care.

Ear Mites - Ear mites are a common problem among dogs. It is important that your dog visit the vet on a regular basis to keep an eye out for these critters. Your vet can gauge how serious the problem is and prescribe suitable medication to address it. If they go untreated, bacteria are able to develop in the tissues and make their way to the brain. This can potentially lead to death.

Teeth - A veterinarian will often clean your dog’s teeth or instruct you on the most effective method for you to clean them yourself. It’s crucial that the vet inspect the dog’s teeth to keep bacteria from forming and becoming a problem. Bacteria can lead to all kinds of illnesses for a dog, so keep a watchful eye on your dog’s dental situation in order to forestall expensive procedures that might be needed if their dental health is not monitored.

Ticks and Fleas - These insects are another frequent problem with dogs. You need to make sure that they are dealt with immediately. Your vet will check to see how advanced the problem is and discuss the best way to keep the infestation from leading to difficulties.

Vaccinations - Dogs require regular shots so that they can remain healthy. These vaccinations can prevent a number of illnesses and can extend your dog's life, so they will be around for many years. If you don't vaccinate your dog, he can more readily develop certain diseases, which will ultimately be quite expensive to treat.

Worms - Dogs also experience problems with worms quite frequently. It's an easy problem to treat, but because there are a number of kinds of infestations and a variety of treatments, a vet should examine your pet to determine which kind of worm has infested your dog and what the most effective course of treatment will be.

Your dog’s health is equally as important as that of your family members. Prevention of illness is invariably the secret to a long and healthy life, so tend to your pet and get him checked over regularly. A veterinarian is educated to understand numerous health problems, occasionally discovering them well before things get bad. Your dog can enjoy life for many years to come with suitable tending and the vigilant watch of his vet.

Saturday, December 13, 2008

Pamper Your Furry Friend with a Pet Stroller

Pet strollers are the hottest new trend for those furry members of your family. What's a pet stroller? It's pretty much what you'd expect – it looks very much like a baby stroller, and it helps you transport your dog or cat for longer distances that it can handle on its own. It's particularly suited to an injured or infirm pooch or tabby that can't walk at all.

With a pet stroller, you can travel along with your pet in comfort and safety. You can go to the park or stroll in the mall with your pet so he can mingle with others without any burden to you.

Here are some possible uses for a pet stroller that might convince you to make the investment:

• It's a practical conveyance to transport your sick or handicapped pet to the vet. It's even good for just a regular checkup. The stroller keeps your pet off the floor and away from many germs that can be contracted in the vet's waiting room.

• You can go for a jog in the park without tiring your pet.

• Take your furry friend to pet shows, picnics, festivals and other outdoor events more conveniently.

• Provide some fresh air to a sick pet. You'll speed their recovery, and they will enjoy being outside.

The two basics types of pet stroller are a detachable carrier and a collapsible model. Detachable products are pet strollers that don’t completely collapse. They provide your pet with a secure environment while you move them from one location to another, and there's no need to ever take them out of the compartment. The fully-collapsible pet stroller is similar, but the whole stroller folds with the push of a button. This kind of stroller is perfect for people who travel a lot.

When it comes to dog pet strollers, make sure it's the right size. Don't rely on the information that comes with the product. Even though the literature for each model specifies the size of pet it is meant to accommodate, it doesn’t mean that it will be comfortable for your pet. Make sure your dog can sit up and turn around.

Look for extra features in a pet stroller that will help you go the distance on a day long outing with your pet. Extra compartments are convenient for storing treats and plastic bags. You can even get strollers that will hold your cell phone or water bottle while you and your pet enjoy the fresh air.

If you plan on jogging with your pet, then you need a stroller specifically designed for this activity. This type of stroller provides maximum stability on the jogging trails.

Friday, December 12, 2008

Siamese if You Please

The striking and inscrutable Siamese cat comes from the land of Thailand. This breed has been a favorite through the ages, often dwelling in imperial palaces. In the long ago past, Siamese cats were believed to be able to defend monasteries and royal palaces against evil spirits. They were also believed to bless their owners with good luck.

In 1884, Siamese cats first appeared in England, when some of them were presented as a gift to a British military officer. Later on, they made their way across the ocean to the United States. Today, Siamese cats are one of the most easily recognizable breed among the species. They are considered to be the most popular short haired cat and one of the top three in the entire species.

Since there are numerous variations in coloring for this breed, some people wonder what defines a true Siamese cat. For starters, they always feature bodies that are lighter in color than their extremities, including the face, tail, feet, and legs. Their eyes are a bright blue and are somewhat slanted, another indication that the cat is an actual Siamese.

Usually, Siamese cats are full-bodied, with a round head and a muscular frame. They are particularly recognized for their color points and unparalleled personalities. Contrary to other breeds, Siamese have an ability to talk with people. If you're searching for a cat that's quiet, you won't want a Siamese. These cats like to play, are noisy, and are among the most sociable breed of cats around.

Siamese cats are quite arrogant, actually, and demand considerable attention. Because of this, they are inclined to be rather attached to their owners. They like to play, and demand interaction. If you leave them alone for a period of time, they won’t be happy. They need their attention and dislike to be left alone.

If you like cats with minimal maintenance, Siamese cats are perfect. Although they are high maintenance emotionally, they don’t need much physical care. They need a minimal amount of grooming, with just some brushing a couple times a month. Most of them actually enjoy the brushing, and it can be part of the interaction that they need so much. Their hair is short, so keep it gentle.

Siamese live about as long as any other breed of cats, which is typically about 15 to 20 years, occasionally even longer. As long as you feed your Siamese every day and visit the veterinarian for shots and checkups, your kitty will be around for many years.

A Siamese cat is a fantastic pet. Even though they need considerable attention, they're wonderful pets that you will want to spend much time on. They're perfect for children too, just because kids can pass a lot of time with them. Just as long as you give your Siamese the attention he needs, he'll be your best friend forever.

Thursday, December 11, 2008

Finding the Best Pet for Children

Responsibility is a highly essential characteristic of an individual. This trait isn't acquired in merely an instant, however. Taking on obligations is an endless procedure that had better be infused in a person as soon as practical. Childhood is the most suitable period for children to find out how to be responsible. Instructing your children about the value of being dependable can start with getting them a pet. By this you'll be able to accomplish your objective as your children are experiencing a meaningful event. Even so, you don't just hand them any pet you come across. Keep in mind that the amount of time the pet could be a part of your family might be anywhere from months to years. It won't ever be easy, so that's the reason you must pick out the best pet for your children.

Owning pets has many advantages. Apart from being taught the importance of being dependable, pets can as a matter of fact present their masters with overwhelming affection. They're highly reliant on people for love but return it to you also. Make certain to take proper care of them and you'll experience their fondness for you. They might just remain where they are but when you come near them you will soon discover that they are delighted with your presence. They might not be capable of expressing in words how they feel yet you can sense that sure affectionateness by their body language. Leaping with excitement, moving quickly toward you, or merely remaining by your side is their means of communicating.

A pet has a marvelous ability to console children, particularly when they're ill or going through a difficult time. They soothe folks on their worst days. They might not do it precisely how a human will but in their own fashion they accomplish the same objective.

Picking out a pet for kids has numerous aspects. The child’s present age is a main factor in arriving at a decision. Very young children could inadvertently harm the pet through rough treatment. There's a chance that they will drag, drop, or lift the animal inappropriately which could create excessive injury or pain.

The health of all those in the household must also be taken into consideration. A number of individuals experience a hypersensitivity response to certain animals. Pets with a lot of hair will most likely aggravate a person suffering from asthma. In certain instances, contact dermatitis could result in different parts of the body particularly on those regions that frequently touch the pet. Evaluate your household's health and wellness first to avoid these types of situations. If you're not sure whether or not your kids have allergies, let them visit for a while at a home with a pet in it. This will assist you to determine whether the animal is appropriate for them and won't be damaging to their health.

An additional thing that you should be aware of is the financial requirements of owning a pet. Figure out how much money can you afford for a pet and its maintenance including food, veterinary expense, and grooming. Constructing a suitable pen for a specific pet could be a lot more costly than you might imagine. Remember that pets need play areas also.

Aside from that, you need to think about how large your home is and how much room you can allow for a pet. If you own a relatively small house, then select an pet that won't need much room to run around.

Owning a pet also means a drain on the parents’ time. Although the youngster assures you that he or she will adopt all the obligations, parents all the same wind up assisting. It's essential that you monitor your child as she does the tasks to ensure that all is performed properly. It's only following a certain time period than they can actually handle it alone.

With any luck, the worst case situation won't take place. A number of children become bored with the animal and the parents wind up doing all the work. To keep this from happening it's critical that you choose the best pet for your children.