Walkers & Sitters For Your Pets Do You Need One

Walkers & Sitters For Your Pets

Walkers can be very important so that your pets get the right amount of exercise in order for them to stay physically and mentally healthy.  Often this means that a dog should be walked for at least a ½ hour or 45 minutes per day.  Without this amount of regular exercise your dog could become tense or mischievous and look for ways to dispel his energies.

If you do not have time to walk your dog then you may want to hire professional dog walkers to provide this service for your pet.  Simply put, dog walkers come to your home are specified hours of the day and take your dog for his required walk.  Sometimes a dog walker will take your dog to a dog park to let him run off his excess energy. 

Sometimes a dog walking service will take several dogs walking at the same time. This is not a bad thing, your dog learns to get along and socialize with other dogs.  It can be seen as your dog having a good time during his daily walking sessions.

Do Cats Need Walking Services

Cats also need a certain amount of exercise to stay healthy. Cats generally tend to supply their own form of exercise so it's not necessary to hire someone to ‘walk’ them.  Typically cats get their exercise by pouncing and jumping all over the house, on indoor cat trees and with cat toys.  Some cats can be trained to walk on a leash and you may consider getting a pet walking service to let your cat get some outside exercise.

If your pet is left alone while you are working. You can hire a pet sitter to keep your pet company.  A pet sitter can be hired for a dog or a cat.  The object is companionship for your pet while you are away.

Pet sitting services you choose should be committed to spending quality time with your pet.  Like walking them, playing with them, petting them and nurturing them—not just being there.  Of course pet sitters will also feed you pet for you, if required.  Some services will ‘sit’ with your pet overnight or longer in your home if you need to go away.

You can hire someone you know, or someone who has advertised in the newspaper to perform these tasks. There are also many very good professional walkers and pet sitters. Be sure to check out services and make sure they are bonded and insured.  They should be trained in first aid for dogs and cats.

Trainers For Your Pet

Pet Trainers/Evaluators

Pet trainers are exactly what the term implies:  people who train your pets.  Trainers can be very helpful when you do not have time or the skills to train your pet yourself.  They will take on the task of doing this job for you and offer dog friendly training techniques.  Look for a qualified pet trainer that is a certified member of a pet association.   And, ask if all pets are required to have been vaccinated before attending.

A skilled trainer will use humane methods to train your pet.  A good pet training facility will allow you to observe one of their classes before you enroll your pet.  You should note if the pets and people attending are enjoying themselves as this is an indication of how successful the training may be.  A good trainer should encourage all members of the family who interact with the pet to attend (if space permits, of course).  The lessons should also provide ample time for the participants to practice what is learned under the watchful eye of the trainer.  The participants should be allowed to ask questions and relay concerns.

You may also be able to hire a pet trainer on an individual basis.  In this case the pet trainer will come to your home and work with you and your pet on a one-on-one basis.  For some pets this is a great option, especially if the pet has trouble dealing with, or is aggressive towards, other members of its species.  This individual attention also allows you to learn to cope better with any specific problems or issues your pet may be having.

Trainers Or Evaluators

A pet evaluator may also be a pet trainer.  If you have any concerns that your dog may be a biter. This could be one of the situations where you may require a pet evaluator.  The evaluator can advise you on whether the dog is abnormally vicious or if their biting behavior can be corrected.  (A ‘red’ level rating is usually considered a vicious dog that may be uncontrollable.)

Pet evaluators are also often employed by SPCA agencies to evaluate whether an animal is adoptable.  They will evaluate the pet to see if, a dog will bite when feeding.  It may be ready to put up with children in a family setting.  Some pets are not adoptable. Some may only need more time to get over any psychological problems they may be experiencing.

Psychiatrist For Your Pet's
A psychiatrist can help unbalanced or unstable pets can benefit greatly with the use of the services of pet psychiatrists. An unbalanced pet with a problem is more common that you may think.

Most people think that all they need to do to keep their pet healthy is to feed and love them. let them go outside to relieve themselves and provide a place for them to sleep.  But each pet is a unique individual and has its own character and personality traits.  Pets can be complex characters that have their own fears and idiosyncrasies.

A Psychiatrist Can Solve Some Pet Problems

First of all you need to get a pet psychiatrist to address your pet's problem. If your pet constantly kneads and claws furniture it could be a psychological problem. The cat will outgrow the problem behavior, but in extreme cases where the unwanted behavior continues, it may be time to consult your pet professional, a pet psychiatrist.  Pet psychiatrists can be called in to address aggressive and fearful behaviors in cats and dogs.

Pet psychiatrists are academic professionals who have studied animal behavior. They should know how to address your pet’s problem in a positive way.  They have studied what makes animals tick and are quite adept at identifying why your pet may be behaving the way he is, in other words, what is causing his problem.  The pet psychiatrist can show you how to work with your pet to re-train or re-direct his problem behavior.

Get the pet psychiatrist to meet with you and your pet for an appointment.  A pet psychiatrist might want to observe the pet doing the unwanted behavior. Sometimes the appointments will be in your home environment.  The pet professional will then discuss a plan of action with you to help you modify the unwanted behavior.

Having a problem with your pet and you cannot seem to solve it? You may need to call in a pet psychiatrist for their help and input. Pet professionals will go beyond your pet’s physical well-being. Psychiatrists can know more what your pet’s personality is like and what makes him do the things he does.  Pet psychiatrists can be expensive, but what is that cost in relation to having a happy healthy pet.

Groomers For Your Pets

Pet Groomers

Any time you own a pet it is your responsibility to keep him happy and healthy.  Part of your pet’s care must include some type of grooming.  Dogs’ and cats’ hair can get dirty and matted and needs to be combed out.  Leaving mats in your dog’s fur can cause skin irritations. Cats, especially the long-haired varieties, when left totally on their own to groom themselves, can develop hair balls.

Grooming your dog can be an essential part of your dog’s care, especially if your dog suffers from the heat in the summer.  When you get their fur cut or shaved it will help keep your dog more comfortable in the hot weather, and possibly even help to prevent heat stroke.  And, as mentioned, untended mats in your dog’s fur can cause skin irritations and infections.

Be aware that cats also may need to have their claws trimmed.  Cats kept indoors do not always have the opportunity for scratching down their claws that outside cats have.  A trip to the groomer will ensure your cat’s claw health.

You can choose to do the grooming yourself if you have the time and the patience for it, or you can hire professionals to do this task for you.   Professional groomers will bath your pet, cut, shave and comb out its fur/hair, clip its nails, clean its ears and provide all the grooming services you need.

Another plus about taking your pet to a professional groomer is their knowledge of dogs and cats in general.  They can sometimes point out if your dog or cat has a health problem that may need a vet’s attention.

Dog groomers can often trim your dog’s coat relative to the type of breed it is.  Some specialty dog groomers will cut and style your dog’s fur in fun and exotic ways.  Some will even add color to your dog’s fur to give him a ‘designer’ dog look.

Also some breeds of cats with longer coats can get unique and designer looks provided by a professional groomer.  Surely you have seen cats with a ‘lion’ cut!You can take your pet to a groomer, or some groomers even have mobile units that come to your home.

Is Your Groomer Certified

When you are looking for pet groomers, also look for one that is professional, and keeps clean work areas. Make sure that the groomer is certified and is an active member of a dog or cat grooming association.

Some groomers also have spas geared for pets attached to them (although you can take your pet to a separate pet spa as well).  The spas do for your pets exactly what a spa would do for people. They cater to making your pet more relaxed and less stressed with massage therapies, heated towels, special shampoos and colognes, ear and teeth cleaning, and general pampering.

Grooming Supplies

Persian Cat Breeds

The Persian Cat
The Persian cat breed was first brought to Europe from the Ottoman Empire in the XVI century. Although originally the Persian cat was typically short-haired, the long hair version of today’s Persian was thought to have been developed from the Pallas cat strain.

As is commonly known, today’s Persian cat breed has an extremely long, thick coat.  This cat’s legs seem to be short compared to its body size.  Its head is wide and the ears are rounded and typically set far apart. It has beautiful large round-ish eyes and an extremely fore-shortened, flat-faced muzzle, making its face seem almost squashed.

This breed of cat can have any color or markings, including, tortoiseshell, blue, tabby or pointed. There are tipped varieties also which are known as Chinchilla. Point types are known as Himalayan in the U.S. and Colorpoint Persian in Europe.

If you own a Persian cat, typically these cats require a little extra effort in the way of pet care. Their fur is so long and dense that it is difficult for them to groom themselves properly. Their constant licking for self-grooming can lead to a problem with hairballs, therefore, it is up to the pet owner to provide regular grooming. These cats should be bathed regularly and brushed thoroughly every day. They also may be prone to ‘tearing’ which can cause stains around the eye area. A daily face-wash is recommended.

Also, Persians should have their eyes checked on a regular basis for possible eye problems. Keep long hair back from their eyes as much as possible.  Long hair can irritate their eyes.

It is thought that Persian cats may be more prone to respiratory diseases than some other cat breeds, this has not been proven to date. These cats are generally a hardy, healthy cat. This breed generally has a life span of approximately 10-18 years.

This cat breed is one of the most popular in the United States today and is known for its docile temperament. They are loving, calm animals that are not pushy in demanding your attention. They are also not a really vocal cat, meaning that they do not ‘meow’ a lot. They also tend to be very tolerant of other animals in the home, whether it be another cat or a dog.  They make excellent family pets and they typically adapt very well to their environment. They are better suited as indoor pets, due to the high maintenance of their coats.

Training Your Puppy

Potty Training

House Training Your Puppy

House training your puppy means teaching him where he is allowed to go to the bathroom.  This is one of the first lessons you need to teach your pet, and it is an important one.  The precedents you set for your pet in the first days of his time with you can last for a lifetime.  And you and your puppy need a clean and sanitary home to live so teaching basic house training is very important for your healthy living environment.  Unsanitary conditions due to pet urine and feces can promote germs and can lead to many health problems for you and your pet.

You should start house training your puppy the first week he is in your home.  Young puppies learn very quickly, but unless you can be with your pet 24 hours a day don’t expect him to be perfect at it right away.  Your puppy is a baby and still growing so his bladder may not be completely under his control.  You can expect little accidents up until he reaches about 6 months of age.

Also remember that what goes in also needs to come out.  It is natural for puppies to eat a lot (think of the amount of energy they spend) so it goes without saying that they also need to eliminate a lot. It is wise to take your puppy to the place where you want him to go to the bathroom every time after he eats.

When you first begin to paper train your puppy, confine him to a limited area in the house.  Cover the area with newspapers to catch whatever happens and to make cleanup easier.  But, don’t be surprised when your puppy chews the papers, or misses them entirely.  Puppies are puppies and they will be exploring everything that is within their reach.  They won’t immediately connect the papers with what you want them to do on them.  They won’t know yet what the papers are for.

Praise and reward are key at this time. When your puppy goes potty where they are supposed to give them lots of praise. where  Praise your puppy each time he goes ‘potty’ where he is supposed to.  When he goes on the paper, praise him.  If he misses, ignore it.  Puppies tend to learn quickly and  will soon realize that he gets praise for going on the paper.  Then gradually lessen the papered area each day by a small amount. Take a few papers away.   Don’t be discouraged or impatient with puppy if he ‘messes’ up.  Remember that he is still growing and learning.

When you begin trying to teach your puppy to go outside, you need to have a lot of time to spend in the training.  You need to take puppy outside whenever he needs to eliminate, which is probably about every 45 minutes for a young puppy.  He will need to go when he just wakes up, after he eats or drinks anything, and even after an energetic play session.  Again, the key here is reward and praise.  When puppy eliminates outside, praise him profusely.   Never scold him or reprimand him for mistakes inside the house.

You will have to be patient and consistent.  That is how your puppy will learn the best—repetition and praise.  Training puppies before they are  months old is very hard to do.

Housetraining your puppy is an important part of his learning experience.  Once he masters house training, you will be able to use the same techniques to train him in other things.  Using praise, repetition and reward is the right way to housetrain your puppy.

Feeding Your Pets

Feeding Your pets

Like people pets  can have major health problems depending types and how much food they receive.

Pets can have as many health issues relating to food that people do.  Because of this you need to be cognizant of your pet’s dietary needs.  As mentioned before, your pet is relying on you to do the right thing in keeping it healthy—and a healthy pet will live longer and provide you with more hours of joy.

Here again, it is up to you to do a little research.  Consulting your veterinarian about your pet’s feeding needs will surely help.  You can also read up on what diet is best for your pet.

Be aware that certain foods are better for certain pets.  For example, goldfish food should not be fed to tropical fish—the size and type of food is totally different.  Also bird feed differs for different types of birds.

It is not wise to rely totally on past history of what your parents fed their pets.  New advances and understanding in pet health issues have changed in the past few years and what was believed to be the ideal way of feeding your dog or cat in the olden days may not really be the best way today.

In previous years, dogs may have been fed totally on table scraps and chicken bones.  They could be getting too much rich, fat food in their diet, or they could choke on a chicken bone.

Today there are many brands of pet food made especially for your type of animal—even special ones for, say, small dogs versus large dogs, or kitten food versus food to aging cats.  The pet food companies try to incorporate the correct amount of vitamins and nutrients into the food that your pet needs to keep it healthy.  Many are dry varieties, but the pet food companies also try to keep pets happy with the taste.

Treats

It would not be out of line to give your pet the occasional treat or table scraps that they may enjoy (as long as it is not something harmful like chicken bones).  Just as people can indulge in the occasional decadent dessert, so can you treat your pet.  The important thing is that your pet receives the right food for it the majority of the time so that it gets a proper diet to keep it healthy.

When feeding your pet take a note from the Book of People.  When people are overweight they are more prone to have bad health issues.  This is the same with your pet.  In order to keep your pet healthy, be aware of its weight.  Overfeeding, even with loving intentions, can cause your pet to die before it should.

Pet food Ideas

Pet Food Containers

Kennels For Dogs And Cats

Dog and Cat Kennels  

There are two meanings when you speak of pet kennels.  One is that a kennel breeds a certain type of pet, like a dog breeder who breeds Jack Russell Terriers.  The other is that of a boarding kennel.  Some kennels do both.  This article discusses boarding kennels here.

If you ever need to be away from home and cannot take your pet with you, you may have to leave your pet in the hands of a boarding kennel.    They are essentially a hotel for pets.  It can be tricky to find a good kennel, though.  You need to check out the kennel thoroughly before entrusting your pet to their care.

Kennel Requirements

Be aware that your pet will be very insecure out of it home environment and you will need to be certain that the kennel's staff will be sympathetic to your pet’s anxiety.

• Choose a kennel that has your pet’s best interest in mind—one designed for the health, safety and comfort of your pet.
• Make sure the facilities are clean and sanitary. Kennels should be cleaned and sterilized before any new pet uses it, as well as cleaned on a daily basis.
• The buildings should be heated in winter, and other good ventilation of air (or ideally air-conditioning) in summer.
• Although dogs are social pack animals and like to be together, choose a facility that allows your dog to have his own space instead of just a group of dogs in one room. If each space is enclosed by wire, the dogs can still share each other’s company without the risk of dog fights.
• Be sure that the kennel will allow your pet to exercise daily. This will help your pet relieve some of the stress they may be feeling.
• Some kennels play music around the clock to help your pet feel more relaxed.
• There should also be staff on hand around the clock to check on your pet, if needed.
• The best indication of whether you have chosen a kennel wisely will be when you pick up your pet. When you drop them off for the next visit, they should be happy to stay there. Although they may want to go home, you will be able to tell how your pet reacts after his visit.
• If you have a cat, be sure that the facility for cat care is separated from the dogs. Your cat will certainly be more stressed if they have to fear the dogs around them all the time.

Here are some supplies

The American Shorthair Cat

American Shorthair Cat

Considered one of the most popular type of cats to have as a family pet in the United States today. This extremely attractive cat, was called the Domestic Shorthair. American Shorthair name was changed by the Cat Fancier's Association (CFA) in 1965. The American Shorthair Cat was initially thought to have originated from cats brought over on the Mayflower. Today in most households, these cats probably do not even distain to try to catch a mouse.  They are more of a house cat suitable for petting and sitting sedately in one’s lap.

As the name suggests, these animals typically have a short-haired soft coat that comes in a rainbow of colors.  The most common colors are the classic silver tabby and the classic brown tabby. The large, wide-set and almond-shaped eyes are typical. Most of the colored varieties of this breed can have a brilliant gold eye color. the exception is the silver tabby which has a brilliant green eye color. Solid white-haired varieties of the American Shorthair can have gold, blue or can even display an odd eye color, like blue and gold together.

The American Shorthair is one of those cat breeds that are typically quite an independent, proud animal. These cats like to explore and move around under their own steam,  they are not over-excitable or gregarious. Further more these cats are very sociable when brought up in a family atmosphere. They make excellent family pets. This is one reason they are so popular in the cat world today. They have a quiet, loving nature and get along well with most dogs and children that are in the family.

The American Shorthair is a medium-large cat that typically weighs about 8-12 lbs.  This type of cat is a hardy cat and known for its longevity. The American Shorthair is typically quite healthy and robust. This is a very attractive cat that will appeal to many. You would not go wrong in choosing this breed of cat for a family pet. These cats friendly and loving nature. To have this friendly, gorgeous animal about your family’s feet would make well worth your time.

Best Dogs For Seniors

Dog Breeds for Seniors

Dogs can make great companions for older people.  They provide companionship, a purpose in life and quite a bit of enjoyment and love.  But older people do have particular concerns when thinking about choosing a type of dog to adopt.  Some individuals have their own physical health issues and limitations that can affect the care they can provide for a dog companion.  Some people may have trouble giving their pet the amount of exercise it requires, and another individual may have difficulty handling a large, rambunctious animal because of its strength or energy level.
Seniors are more suited to a dog companion that has a gentle temperament and is less vigorous than some other dog breeds are famous for.  For instance, a docile Labrador retriever may be more suited to a senior than a frisky terrier might be.  The Labrador may be larger, but in addition to typically having a docile temperament, they may be able to be trained to assist the senior in certain tasks as well (such as picking up objects, opening doors, etc.)
Another thing to consider is that female animals tend to be more docile than males.  They have a reputation for being more home-bound, with less wandering traits, and are not as territorial.  Animals that have been spayed or neutered are also reputed to be more docile.
Here is a short list of dogs that have calmer dispositions and may make more suitable pets for seniors:

1. Newfoundland
2. Papillon
3. Japanese Spaniel
4. Maltese
5. Italian Greyhound
6. Beagle
7. Great Dane
8. Golden Retriever
9. Chesapeake Bay Retriever
10. Greyhound
11. Cocker Spaniel
12. Boston Terrier
13. Bichon Frise
14. Shetland Sheepdog

As mentioned, a smaller dog may also be more suitable for an older person, especially one who cannot physically handle a larger breed, or for a person who lives in a smaller dwelling and does not have the room or yard for a large dog.  Smaller dogs may be easier for an older person to manage.  They require less room for exercise.  They can be bathed easily in a kitchen sink without the person having to stoop over a bathtub or having to lift a large animal into a tub.  Also a small dog can easily fit into a person’s lap for a closer relationship, especially if the person is in a wheelchair.

Here is a list of smaller dogs that seniors may consider as a dog companion:

1. Toy/Miniature Poodle
2. Maltese
3. Yorkshire Terrier
4. Pomeranian
5. Chihuahua
6. Basenji
7. Whippet
8. Boston Terrier
9. Scottish Terrier
10. Dachshund
11. Pug
12. Lhasa Apso
13. Tibetan Terrier
14. Shih Tzu
15. Bichon Frise
16. Pekingese
17. Miniature Schnauzer

Each dog breed has a temperament that may be suited to one individual more than another.  A senior may not only be looking for companionship in a pet (with a strong owner-dog bond), but may want a dog for protective purposes or utilitarian purposes as well (such as a seeing-eye dog or a dog trained to help with the needs of a disabled person). 
Other dog types are ‘one-person’ dogs who bond strongly with one owner.  Although these dogs may exhibit protective behavior towards their owner or separation anxiety when away from their owner, these dog breeds tend to be extremely loyal and faithful, making them ideal for certain seniors. 
Some examples of ‘one-person’ dogs are.

1. Bernese Mountain Dog
2. Chihuahua
3. Chow Chow
4. Doberman Pinscher
5. Irish Water Spaniel
6. Komondor
7. Pekingese
8. Pomeranian
9. Pug
10. Rottweiler
11. Schnauzer
12. Scottish Terrier

Seniors have special requirements when considering a particular dog breed for their companion.  Choosing the right breed for their needs will make the relationship with their pet a loving, enjoyable and rewarding experience.

Destructive Behaviour In Dogs

Destructive Behavior in Dogs

One of the most common complaints from dog owners is that their dog displays destructive behavior.  Destructive behavior can take many forms, from chewing up a prized rug or expensive pair of shoes, to digging in the flower bed.  Destructive behavior can be the result of many causes, one of which can be separation anxiety.  If you are absent from your home for any length of time (due to work or other activities), your dog is home alone for long hours and can become bored, which can result in destructive behavior.

One of the problems is that the owner often comes in after the destructive behavior has already been done and punishes the dog at that time.  The dog has not been ‘caught in the act’ and often cannot associate the punishment with the destructive behavior.  Your dog does not really understand why you are upset with him and does not associate your anger with the act of destruction. 

One of the reasons your dog may ‘act up’ with destructive behavior is that they are bored or lack environmental stimulation.  If your dog does not receive the proper amount of exercise or does not have enough stimulation (as in activities or toys) to keep him mentally satisfied, he may choose his own form of entertainment, which may be the destructive behavior. 

You can provide many interesting objects that will keep your dog occupied while you are absent, to prevent him getting into the destructive mode.  For example, a bone or rawhide toy will give him hours of chewing satisfaction that may divert his unwanted chewing behaviors.  Other interactive toys can also help to keep him from being bored and getting into unwanted destructive behaviors.

Another reason for destructive behavior may be from frustration with a barrier.  If your dog is confined to an area like a closed room, a fenced yard or a gate that doesn’t allow him access to a particular place he wants to be, he could resent the presence of the barrier and either chew on it (if it is a gate), chew on something else in the room to take out his frustration, or possibly try escaping by digging in your garden beside the fence.  Your dog, when frustrated, can be extremely persistent and try very hard to get through a barrier and can destroy the door frame or door knobs also.

To help alleviate destructive problems, you must first determine the cause of the behavior.  If, for example, you dog is chewing on the rug or furniture, the most probable cause of his destructive behavior is lack of environmental stimulation.  You may be able to remedy this by increasing his exercise, providing an animal companion, playing the radio, or giving the dog toys or objects to keep him occupied.

Another tip to preventing your dog’s destructive behaviors is to discourage them from the start—when he is a puppy.  Never give your dog old shoes or a blanket or rug to chew on.  Your dog will be unable to distinguish between an old shoe and one of your designer shoes.  Supply your dog with appropriate dog toys so he can distinguish forbidden objects from the beginning.

Other ways to prevent destructive behavior when you are not at home are: 1) have a dog sitter come into your home 2) take your dog to a doggie day care centre for the time you are away or 3) crate your dog during your absence.

Clicker Training for Dogs

Clicker Training for Dogs

If you have ever heard of Pavlov, you already know what clicker training is.  Pavlov ran an experiment that had the same training criteria as clicker training.  Basically, Pavlov used a bell (instead of a clicker) every time he fed his dogs and after a few repetitions, the dogs started to salivate in response to the bell, expecting their food to be presented to them.  That is the same theory as to how clicker training works.
A clicker is used instead of Pavlov’s bell.  The clicker is a small hand-held instrument that makes a distinct clicking sound when pressed.  In essence, whenever a dog performs a wanted behavior, a trainer uses a clicker to make the clicking sound (along with a voice particular voice command) and a reward or treat is immediately given to the dog.  The dog then associates the click and the command with the required action.  The clicker and voice command clues the animal into making the specific action wanted.
Clicker training can also be called positive reinforcement training.  The dog is rewarded for his correct actions with a treat and he associates the click with that correct action.  The dog is positively rewarded for his action.
To be entirely successful, however, the reward or treat has to be relevant to the particular dog or dog breed.  Some animals respond better to certain treats or rewards than others.  Some dogs may like a particular brand of treat or food, while other dogs can simply enjoy a ‘good dog’ and a pat for their reward.
In some cases, you may notice your dog shying away from the noise of the clicker.  The sound may be unfamiliar or frightening to the dog.  You can either muffle the noise so it is not as loud.  Try hiding the clicker behind your back, wrapping the clicker in a small towel, or placing the clicker in your pocket.  Do not point the clicker directly at your dog either, but hold it casually at your side.  Discontinue the clicker training session if your dog seems unduly stressed.  Continue at another time when he is more confident.
When attempting clicker training, in the beginning you have to treat your dog EVERY time he responds with the appropriate, wanted behavior.  You must follow through with the reward every time your dog produces the required action.  Do not click multiple times and only offer a reward once. 
If you want your dog to respond to a particular command, you need to associate the clicker noise with the command.  So you need to say the command along with your clicker training.  A treat or reward still needs to be given.
Clicker training has proved very successful in dog training.  If requires patience, but it is a great way to train your dog.

Proper Dog Care for Your Pet

Choose Proper Dog Care for Your Pet

Having a pet can be one of the greatest blessings for people of any age. Pets often become more like friends to the people who own them. They provide hours of entertainment and fun during the best times in life and they provide comfort and companionship during life's hardest seasons. Many people choose to make a dog their pet of choice. When owners practice good dog care, dogs can be some of the cleanest and greatest pets on the earth. Not all dog owners, however, are experienced in good dog care.

Proper dog care is important for all dogs. If you are going to keep a dog as your personal pet then you had better do what it takes to take good care of your dog. There is only one reason for all of the neglected dogs that live in many homes around the world: selfishness. When dog owners are selfish with their time, energy, and affections, good dog care practices fly out the window and dogs are left without owners who really care for them.

If you are a dog owner or are thinking of becoming one, commit to making good dog care choices. One of the biggest things that many people do not realize about dogs or any other pets is that they take time. If you have no extra time in your life then I suggest that maybe having a dog or another pet is not for you right now.

One of the biggest elements of good dog care is taking time to be with and care for your dog. Many breeds of dogs need owners who will spend lots of time with them and give them attention. You can not ignore your dog and expect to have a good relationship with it.

Good dog care takes much more than time. Any dog owner knows that most dogs take energy. Most dogs need to be walked and played with outside. If you do not have the energy to give your dog the attention it needs then you should consider getting a less demanding pet. Dog care requires consistent attention and playfulness.

An important part of good dog care is keeping tabs on the health of your dog. Providing healthy food, taking time to let your dog run outside, making regular visits to a groomer to get haircuts and baths, and of course seeing a veterinarian are all parts of good dog care.

Good dog care means work. But it is guaranteed that if you put time, energy and care into the life of your dog, you will enjoy being a dog owner and your dog will enjoy living with you for years to come.

Cat Naps

Cat Naps

Giving your cat their own snoozing area gives you the ability to take back all of the space in your house that they have taken over.  You may even want to give them several places to call their own to keep them happy!

You are sure to find a cat bed that fits your tastes, and your pets, because there are so many out there to choose from.  You can find colorful cat beds in fun pet prints that will add a touch of whimsy to the room you put it in.  You will also find designer brands to choose from as well.  You can also choose how the bed feels too. Is it soft, squishy, comfortable and warm?

Many cat beds have pillows made of fleece to keep them warm.  They are typically oval shaped and have high sides or they may be completely enclosed.  Cats like to find a secure, warm spot to rest.  For many, getting into the tight warm couch cushion seems like the ideal place. 

You will find that some beds you can choose from are heated as well.  If the cat spends time on the porch or in other chilly areas, you may want to give them one of these heated beds to warm up with.

Have you purchased a great bed for your cat but they are ignoring it?  Don’t be surprised at this.  If they just doesn’t seem interested, add a catnip toy to the bed to attract them to it.  Make sure that you place it in a cat friendly location too which will help to make it appealing to them.  Cats don’t want to nap in low places so you may want to put the bed on an end table or platform that is just a bit off the ground.  You’ll need to keep it from being in the midst of heavy people traffic as well.  Your cat wants to be able to relax and sleep there or they won’t want to be there.

Does your cat shed?  Place the nap mat where your cat normally sleeps and then store it elsewhere when you have guests.  The cushions that are under the mat will then be hair free.

Some pets enjoy a perch.  These are padded shelves that have become very popular.  You can attach the cat perch to your windowsill so that the cat can look out the window at the birds or just bathe in the sun.

More than one cat can means that you may have to get more than one bed as cats are territorial and don't like sharing their beds.  You may be able to look for a kitty version of a play gym or a cat condo.  These allow several cats to nap in elevated spots.  And, the cat condo has areas where they can climb and sharpen claws. 

If your cat likes to nap on your couch cushions, giving them a bed is the ideal way to make them comfortable and provide them with a place other than your furniture to nap on!

Your Pet's Healthy Weight

Your Pet's Healthy Weight

Benefits of keeping your pet at a healthy weight?

Excess weight can reduce your pet’s life expectancy by more than two years.

Even a modest reduction in weight can significantly reduce your pet’s risk of life-threatening diseases.

Keeping your pet at a healthy weight lowers his/her risk of diabetes, high blood pressure, respiratory disease, kidney disease, and some forms of cancer. It can also reduce the risks of injury to bones, joints and muscles that are associated with excess weight. If your pet has arthritis, keeping him/her at a healthy weight makes it easier to manage the discomfort associated with joint pain. Because excess weight can reduce your pet’s life expectancy by more than two years, keeping your pet trim gives them the best chance of a longer, healthier, and pain-free life. In simplest terms, weight loss involves reducing your pet’s caloric intake and increasing their activity level to burn more calories. Be patient. It often takes longer to lose weight than it did for your pet to gain it. In simplest terms, weight loss involves reducing your pet’s caloric intake and increasing their activity level to burn more calories. Be patient. It often takes longer to lose weight than it did for your pet to gain it.

How to reduce your pet’s weight?

There is no one size fits all what works for one pet might not work for another. It’s probably no surprise, Reaching and maintaining a healthy weight requires a commitment to a healthier lifestyle that achieves a balance between the calories consumed and the calories used by the body for normal functions and activity. Even a modest reduction in weight can significantly reduce your pet’s risk of life-threatening diseases.

Make your pet first
Work with your veterinarian; make an honest assessment of your pet’s weight. Does your pet have any problems that have been caused by excess weight .Focus on what matters – your pet’s good health and long life. Remember it’s not all about you it is for your pets well being.

Fourth Of July Stress For Pets

Fourth Of July Stress For Pets

The fourth of July can be very stressful for your pets as the fireworks begin.  Some things that you can do is try to exercise them so that they are very tired by the time the fireworks start to go off. You can take them on long walks or runs or play catch or fetch with them until they are exhausted both mentally and physically so they have less energy to be stressed out. Sometimes just confining them to a room or kennel can be calming for them, there are a lot of natural calming aids for them that can help remove the stress for them, check with your vet about the best options for your Pets.

What Causes Cat Allergies

What Causes Cat Allergies

About 10% of the people in the United States have pet allergies and cats are the biggest culprits

Cat allergies are more than twice as common as dog allergies, most people think it is the hair or fur they are allergic to but hey are really allergic to the proteins in the cat’s saliva, urine and dander.

Life with cat allergies could explain your children’s cold symptoms all year long. Cat allergies can usually be controlled with antihistamines which can be purchased over the counter, like Benadryl, Claritin, Zyrtec, Allegra ad some antihistamines like Astelin which come in a nasal spray. Some decongestants like Sudafed and Allegra-d along with nasal sprays like Flonase can also be bought over the counter. There is also allergy shots that are an option. But unfortunately there is no way to prevent allergies.

Reduce your exposure to cats to help control the allergies. Here are some tips, Don’t touch hug or kiss cats, some people think that a little contact is OK but it isn’t.

Some people who have cats and visit you even if they leave their cats at home can still bring in dander with them from their clothes and luggage.

What if you already own a cat and you have allergies? You shouldn’t have it in your home I know this is harsh advice but if the cat has to stay limit your exposure, restrict the cat to certain areas, keep your distance, clean the air, clean your house rigorously and often use a heap filter vacuum, consider bathing you cat often, bathing helps reduce the allergens.

These techniques might help you but as hard as it may be you or a family members health could be at risk and you might have to give it up.

Parvo In Dogs

Parvo In Dogs

       Parvovirus is very contagious and can be life threatening, the virus attacks the intestinal tract along with the white blood cells. In younger animals the virus can damage the heart muscle which can cause lifelong cardiac problems or death.

       The general symptoms of the virus are severe vomiting, lethargy, loss of appetite, foul smelling and bloody diarrhea which can lead to dehydration.

       Parvo can be transmitted by person, animal or object that comes in contact with an infected dog’s feces. The virus may survive on things such as shoes, carpets, and food bowls. In urban areas where there are many dogs it is very common for unvaccinated dogs to contract parvo from the streets.

      Puppies, adolescent dogs and canines that are not vaccinated are most susceptible to the virus. The canine Parvovirus can attack coyotes, wolves, foxes and most dog breeds.

      Doberman pinschers, Labrador retriever’s, German shepherds and Rottweilers are at a much higher risk. You can protect your dog from the Parvovirus by making sure they are up to date on their vaccinations. It is recommended that puppies be vaccinated with a vaccine called a 5 in one it protects puppies from parainfluenza, parvovirus, distemper, leptospirosis, and hepatitis.

     Remember there are no drugs that can kill the virus at this time, dogs infected with the disease need intensive care to help boost their immune systems, if your dog undergoes this treatment be prepared for considerable expense as the hospital stay is about 5-7 days.

     The best way to forgo this is get them vaccinated.