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When it comes to finding the best organic pet food for your dog, you have to sort through a lot of hype and claimsJust where exactly did this sweet and adorable little lap toy dog, the japanese chin originateOne of the most important chores when grooming your pet, is definitely the trimming of the nailsFirst detected in the united states in 1984 the tracheal mite has caused the loss of tens of thousands of colonies and millions of dollarsTraveling without fidoKeeping healthy chickens is so much easier than you might have thoughtAs thousands of families struggled with the aftermath of hurricane katrina, many of them were also missing petsA new kitten is a playful one; however their playful instincts can get them into trouble at timesLooking to get into the bee businessCats scratch for different reasons and the act of scratching provides the cat with the necessary exercise in order to keep their bodies suppleIf you have a dog then it makes common sense to take out dog insurance, uk dog owners can end up paying an absolute fortune in vet bills if their pet has an accident or develops a chronic condition of some kindYour cat are already spent so much time for their grooming, but it will be more rewarding if you will help them do the grooming to make them look even betterThe key to a happy and healthy relationship between you and your dog is good trainingDog training helps you to change your dog’s behaviorWhen one first sees the puli, the question is always asked “how on earth do you give this dog a bathAre your pets in need of a chigger treatmentThere are several troubles that cats will have to manage withTaking your puppy out on a leash walk does not only train your pet; it also brings in health and social benefits for himDo you want to learn some highly potent methods of teaching a dog not to jump on peopleAl bullington keeps all kinds of pets including a dog, cats, quail, bantam chickens, standard chickens, guinea fowl and parakeetsMost cockatiel health problems are the result of malnutrition or improper careThere are many issues to consider when purchasing health insurance for your cat or kittenChristmas is a special time of the yearIt is important to minimise any trips to the vet for many reasons – and this can be achieved by ensuring your pet stays fit and healthyIt is always difficult to deal with the loss of a pet, but it can be even more devastating to a childSmall in stature, chihuahuas are relatively fragile dogsDo you really need a pet insuranceThe simple answer to the question can i give my dog heartworm meds without checking is you should not do this even if you can get the meds online without a prescriptionThe yorkie is among the most popular small dog breed in the usA chicken tractor is probably the easiest to construct of all the types of chicken coopsDog constipation can be very painful and uncomfortable for your canineVery often a dog will suffer spinal damage from degenerative processesSoon enough the season of costumes and jack-o’-lanterns will fill our neighborhoods with an endless parade of trick-or-treaters heading for our doorstepsWhen you first bought a puppy, you may think that you are going to be able to enjoy your puppy for a very long timeWhat is chihuahuaAt some stage in your life as a horse owner, you may find it necessary to stable your horseLike all the other pet owners you also love your pet, and it is your priority to make sure that their living conditions are clean and hygienicHouse training is the first and most essential part in training your new puppyDog grooming serves more than one important purposeOne of the most common problems with keeping iguanas is that they may continuously try to escapeEven though the miniature pinscher is a small dog, as an owner, you must remember to provide enough exercise and stimulation to have a happy pet that doesn’t decide to eat some of your favorite thingsWith the increasing number of serious incidents reported at public and community dog parks, private dog parks such as royal paws dog park & dog day care are quickly gaining popularity as the only safe and enjoyable choice for dogs and their ownersGood dog food nutrition is a tough find these days, especially in today’s world of manipulative marketing techniquesSome people love to keep birds at their homes and parrots are most common among all these birdsThinking about getting a new puppy or dogOnce all the research, planning and waiting is complete and the aquarium is full of water and has finally finished cycling you will finally be ready to introduce your first fishBeagles are wonderful family companionsMany people are concerned about commercial dog foods that are readily available in storesWhile chicken coops might not be on everybody’s weekly shopping list, they are needed by thousands of people around the world as well as farmers and industriesBuilding chicken coops can sometimes be a difficult thing to doReverend lorenzo langstroth, the man who pioneered modern day beehives, created his original beehive design based on the idea that bee products could be more easily harvested from a spatially constructed box with framesThere are a number of factors involved when considering your chickens’ health and your chicken coop plans are an integral part of keeping them healthyThe amount and type of care necessary will depend both on the water type, the size of the tank and the number of fish that it holdsDog parks and starting one in your communityDog kidney disease is probably one of the leading causes of death in older dogsThere are many places you can buy a kitten from but you should research before choosing the breedThe lusitano is an ancient breed of horse native to portugal that is filled with traditionIf you will be raising any pet, say for instance a cockatiel, the pet’s health is a very important consideration since it largely affects the creature’s well-beingWe begin this article with the basic facts about the breed, then follow up with an in-depth look at their personalityMost people already have a dollar amount in mind when they begin their hunt for chicken coop plans and are shocked at how much pre-built coops costPuppy toilet training can be a thankless task and if your puppy is persistently messing in the house, here are 5 tips that will help you outCanister filters are renowned to be the most efficient fish tank filters around todayToo many dog owners find themselves having problems with their dogs simply because their dogs do not have their own space to call homeWhat you do not know about dog cooling products puts your pet at risk for heat difficulties and discomfortIf you’re tired of looking in dense cover or tall grass for your hunting dog, the garmin astro is the first gps dog tracking system specifically designed to help sportsmen and hunters keep track of their dogsThere are many things to learn when learning how to take care of a ferret , but they are all very simpleWhen potential aquarists start looking into the possibility of starting their own salt water aquarium there is one thing which is often quite daunting – equipmentPet owner julie stern fukuhara, of palo, alto, ca, said her dog turbo (a “puggle” who is a crossbreed between a pug and a beagle) began acting strangely one eveningOftentimes considered the most intelligent of all breeds of dogs, the border collie originate in the english and scottish border country, and is an excellent sheep herding dogThe origin of chinchillas can be traced to chile, a south american countryHomemade dog food is definitely an important part of the dog dietFerrets have proven to be great hunting companions over the yearsDairy cows are at a vulnerable state when they’re between lactationsSilverfish (lepisma saccharina) are slender, fast running, wingless insects that are approximately a centimetre and a half to two centimetres in lengthIt is very important to maintain a good healthy body by regular exercisePollen is a source of protein, vitamins, mineral and some carbohydrates for honeybeesThe pug is a stocky but short dog with the males measuring 12 to 15 inches in height and weighing between 14 and 20 pounds, and the female bitch measuring 8 to 12 inches in height with a weight of 13 to 18 poundsOne question that more people these are asking these days is how to make their own dog foodOkay, so you’ve decided you want to do some agility training with your dogHow do you purchase the food for your dogThere was a constant flurry of activity during the last few days of our life in koreaGetting home from a hard days work to be greeted by a siberian husky is a great stress relieverDogs are considered as man’s best friend and but i object to that because i considered momo my lovable chihuahua as my very best friendA horse can be regarded as more than an animal to ride, more than a hobbyOne of my cats, cooga, is a burmeseThe mouth of an adult cat comprises of 15 teethHow to stop dogs from barkingThe rottweiler is a muscular, highly protective dog that is a favorite for police and the militarySo you got your eye on that cute little critter in the pet storeFrench bulldogs are usually described as ‘clowns in a philosopher’s cloak’ since their glum faces mask their very comical traitsThe cats that we know today have a long history dating back millions of yearsProviding hen sheds for your chickens really is a very simple thing to doAs a general rule, if a mastiff is well socialized as a puppy, then it will get along well with other dogs as an adultWhen you have a pet spider, you have to give it a name, unless you just want to call it spider or spidy all the timeYou can’t waitThere are many different types of parrot breeders available and all offer different breeds of parrotsThe most adorable creatures in the world are the ones at the onset of their livesBuying a horse is actually the simple procedure of exchanging dollars and cents for an animal of your choiceMany people would not consider a fish to be a “real” pet, but keeping tropical fish is a pleasurable hobby for families around the worldThankfully, for the owner that does not want to put up with too many problems, the labrador retriever is known as one of the more mellow breeds of dogsIn response to people’s requests for input concerning spaying and neutering animals, i offer this staggering statisticIt’s rude, it’s crude and it is just wrong on so many levelsA lot of dog owners notice that their pets are itching constantlyPet health insurance is the latest buzz word in pet care todayHave you moved into a new house and felt a bit lostHaving a cat in the household is a very rewarding experience for cat owners, however sometimes behavioral problems such as biting can leave owners frustratedA appropriate place to go and get pet ratsDogs are lovely creatures and you discover that when you own oneBirds can be attracted to your home and surroundings simply by offering food, water and shelter, the three most important ingredients for all living creaturesMost dogs live indoors now and a dogs potty training is necessaryIf you have ever had a puppy then you know that they will go through teething, like a minor, and they will chew on just about everything that’s in your puppies reach, but they always seem to love to chew on their bed more than anything else which is why you need the chew proof dog bedI must have been asked this very simple question more times than i care to remember so lets cut to the chaseUnlike rabbits, guinea pigs are not quiet animalsThe latest fashion trends show that small dog clothes are really in; every dog owner will dress his small dog in order to take a walkIf you love your dog and want to give your dog something special, then buy your dog a purpose made dog cage from doggie solutionsThe finnish spitz is recognisable for its bright red fur, they have a double coat with the undercoat being a lighter colour than the longer and courser outer coatFlint river ranch is a pet food manufacturing company, which produces dog and cat food that contains natural and standard ingredientsWhen it comes to dog crates, they can be extremely useful in training your dogFor as long as i can remember, clay based cat litter was the standardWith over 43 percent of the population owning at least one domestic animal, the uk pet industry is thrivingHaving multiple house pets actually seems to decrease the allergy risk of children, as long as the children have been exposed from infancy onWhen feeding your dog, think about the following:Copyright (c) 2009 james mahoney if you have a puppy, besides basic dog training you will need to have quite a bit of patience on hand as well as time to house train your puppy correctlyFeeding a dog should be taken with seriousness and a careful eye in reading ingredients and a strong backing of nutrient knowledgeKeeping your pet well groomed is an essential part of being a new pet ownerBasic dog training is essential to motivate the development of effective distance and communicate with your dogDid you recently purchase a fish tankFor some these two notions might seem too far apart to present any similaritiesYour first line of apology when care cats out of your patch is to make persuading that you have your boundaries lockIt is said that a dog is a man’s best friendMany of us dog owners get really amazed to see our dogs scratching away to glory in spite of the fact that there is not a single flea on its bodyBlood in cat urine can be caused by many different thingsThere are nearly as many dog and puppy training methods as there are dog trainers; but, there are some basic elements that all successful dog and puppy training methods have in commonAs a beginner first learning the ins and outs of keeping an aquarium healthy, things can get a bit overwhelmingThe selection of vigorous breeding duck stock is essentialIf your kids are trying to find a good companion dog, you may be tempted to first look at some of the more popular breeds, pick out some puppies and then select the best characterDog tooth cleaning is essential representing your dog’s dental hygiene and in the same way as your dog reaches the age 2-3 years plus, dog tooth cleaning will be converted into more and more essential as your dog grows upThere are many certain questions to consider when you are trying to decide what kind of maternity bra will be best for youWhen you own a pet there are several things that you need to purchaseWhen can you start dog potty trainingI’ve owned many dogs, throughout my life, but have never known exactly how to train them properlyUsing reward-based training, the whole family can be involved as the methods are fun and easyWhy should pooches have to suffer with just a mat or rug on the floor while their owners are cuddling up in a posh bed with fluffy pillows and down-topped mattressesYour pet guinea pig depends on you completely for it’s food and nourishmentHow to bath a cat easilyYou should be thinking about your dogs health with summer approachingA dog whisperer is basically a dog trainer, who has sympathetic point of view on the needs and desires of a dogWe want our dogs to live as long as possible, but the truth is, certain dog breeds live longer than othersRaising rabbits for meat is a common business but it requires more dedication and attention compared to normal pet rabbit careWhen trying to find the right horse, it is important to be careful to avoid getting an animal that does not suit youA feline friend can be a wonderful pleasureLook out for the following symptoms of dog cystitis with bladder stones (crystals):P { margin-bottom: 0Celebrities and their chihuahuas has become a huge craze in recent yearsIf dog is man’s best friend, then cats are a man’s capriceMost of the dogs are treated as family member rather than a pet by the owners these daysThis article will talk about how to train a lovebird and 3 fun tricks you can teach your lovebirdClicker training is a reinforcement or reward for a cat when training themSo you ultimately went and acquired yourself a petYou have company over for dinnerPuppies and adolescent dogs usually contract the dog parvo virusBy domesticating the dog we have slowly and drastically changed their everyday lifestyle in terms of the way they eat and exerciseAs a responsible pet owner, it is a goal to always give almost everything that money can buy for your petsYou might think that fleas are nothing more than a minor irritant, like mosquitoes, but if you’ve ever seen a dog with a severe flea infestation, you’ll think otherwiseHave you ever noticed that sometimes your dog has really bad breath and you’re not even sure whyThe dwarf pencil fish, the green rivulus and the hunchbacked limia could be three freshwater fish in your tankHaving a pet at home has over the years has become a traditionNow that you have your ferret, you will want him stay fit and healthyFerrets are fussy eaters, but by offering them a well-balanced diet they will not only eat well, they will thriveAlthough golden retrievers are very sociable, lovable dogs many of them end up in rescue centers each year for a variety of reasonsCrate training your dog crate training your dog is not, and should never be seen as, a way to punish your dogWhat do you say about having an pig as you pet from todayWatching a dog perform his obedience routine with no lead attached to his collar is a thing of beautyAll of us have seen or experienced itWhile to many a may seem that all the dog she retrained alike there are in fact different things you need to consider depending on the size of the dogWhen talking about dog training, the hottest and latest thing is dog whisperingOf all of the products that you can purchase for your dog, a good brush is probably one of the most importantI have read in forums and books that hamsters are very fragile and sensitive animals and here are 3 things to consider before buying a hamsterUnderstanding that dogs and humans require care that is very similar is very important for the dog ownerEveryone likes to own a petHuman beings are not the only species that can suffer from allergiesGolden retrievers are obedient, beautiful, make fantastic family pets as well as hunting dogsHave you considered using flea and tick spray on your dog or cat but hesitated because you didn’t want to pay for the medication, you weren’t sure it was safe for your pet or your family, or maybe you just didn’t know if you needed it in your area, for your petIf you consider yourself to be a loving and responsible pet owner, then you’re always looking out for your dog’s healthApproximately 10% of the united states population suffers from pet allergiesIf you are a cat owner, you must have given up on obedience training at some point in your lifeChiwawa puppies are very popularAccording to the center for disease control, pet ownership has a number of significant health benefitsAfter you have successfully kept a discus aquarium for a while, you may find yourself turning your attention to the idea of breeding discus fishYorkshire terriers are cute as can be, especially as puppies, but they also require some effort to keep them safe and to prevent their creating havoc with your propertyBring a puppy home can very exciting for the whole familyPart of many cat’s personalities is independenceItchy skin, hair loss, constant scratching, ear and anal gland problems are the most common indicators of a dog skin problemPetsafe radio fence:as much as pets have grown component of your family, they too merit the same treatment that the other family members receiveThe perfect household is always pictured with one or more petsThe idea of a siberian husky pops in mind whenever one considers adopting a dog which would suit the general needs of the familyIf the dog is the best friend of man, then cats are a man’s capriceOriental shorthair is a feline breed that has occurred in thailand, alongside the siamese, for a long time as a self-colored cat and was brought over with other cats from the orient to britain in nineteenth centuryAre you a seasoned dog handler or have you lately received the blessing of a new puppyDue to constant comparison with their canine counterparts, people have said that cats cannot be trainedBig and random bodily blotchesOwning a large dog can be a wonderful experienceCats have been a part of human life since ancient timesThere is more to a new fish tank then just a tank filled with water sitting on a stand in your living roomIs your favorite pet pestering you or is it rubbing itself on your persian carpet and making a mess of the sameSenior pet tips: simple things you can do to make your senior pets more comfortableOne of the newest cat breeds around, ukranian levkoy is seen predominantly in the east european country of ukraineHere are a few reasons why i like the ugodog dog litter boxIn this day and age, a lot of things have changed from how they used to be, which can be new and exciting for mostBringing your pet in to thailand the following requirements apply if you plan to bring your cat or dog into thailand for 6 months or more by air as part of your accompanied baggagePet clippers: pet grooming is very substantial for the welfares of your dogGoat farming is increasingly becoming popular these daysEducation begins at home, but it doesn’t end thereAre you having trouble finding your fish in the fish tank due to cloudy waterPreventing dog health problems should be a top priority for dog ownersA german shepherd dog (gsd dog) is a type of dog in which cleaning and grooming can be done in very simple steps that can be done in your housePeople are not the only ones exposed to numerous health risksIn the first couple of days that the cat comes to the new home is a really happy timeSo, you have wanted a horse all your life, but you can’t seem to get your parents to agree to get you oneSea turtles inhabit every ocean in the world except for the arctic oceanBecoming a dog owner can be a difficult task if you aren’t equipped with the knowledge you need to be able to make good decisions and choices about the different of your dog’s lifeDoes your dog enjoy playing in the backyardBenefits of using puppy kongs by kevin gawrickiIf you own a horse, you are probably aware of the money, effort, and time you must invest in order to insure your horse maintains good healthIf you’re curious to know whether your dog is pregnant or not, you have to do certain steps to find out for sureOur four furry kids we’ve got fourChicks that happen to be hatched inside a incubator must stay in the incubator for a couple of daysBefore you begin bathing your dog, be sure you have the correct pet shampooDogs to different people means differentThese are helpful hints to ensure that your cat has a pleasurable and healthy stay with usNatural horsemanship is a philosophy of training and working with horses by communicating in the same language of the horseIt is estimated that over 25% of the world’s population travels with pets and according to the airline transportation association, more than 500,000 animals fly each yearThere are at least 20 symptoms and signs that you should be aware of that your goldendoodle needs to see a vet if you are a new dog ownerCollies come in two different varieties, ‘smooth’ and ‘roughShould dogs have treatsDistantly allied to the black widow, the russet widow spider is far excluding venomous than its infamous cousinAre you ready for something small, fun and furry in your familyThe internet is an amazingly wide place with millions of places to visitA puppy frequently urinating small amounts is nothing new to most ownersDo you have a pet dog that has been with you and your family for several years nowRecently, a lot of our friends and customers have asked us about dog training and how to properly use treats when training dogsIf you are seriously considering buying a parrot, taking the time to read this article will be very beneficialTo own a pet dog can mean both joy and responsibility for you and your loved onesJust like humans, cats feel miserable when they are sickSolve the bark problemIf you haven’t crate trained your dog yet, why notDescriptionDo you feel guilty eating a snack in front of your dogDogs dig because of a number of reasons and to put an end to your dog’s destruction of your backyard requires that you understand why your dog is digging in the first placeThere is nothing that will bring you more joy then a well trained dogNone of us desire to spend a whole afternoon attempting to install something like thisThe boa constrictor, an in particular the common boa (boa constrictor imperator) is a popular snake amongst herpetoculturistsIf you suffer from allergies, you are not aloneThe evolutionary history of the horse is one of the most-covered subjects in modern biologyThough dogs don’t eat nearly the number of sweets and other substances dangerous to their teeth, it still makes sense that at least some base dental care is needed to ensure that they enjoy the best health possibleCorgis are usually easy dogs to train, having a natural ability to understand what is wanted and being anxious to pleaseThe collie is a wonderful family dogWhen you built your pond, you probably spent a lot of time planning its designThe top dog training research indicates that when beginning the training process, it is best to use methods based on positive reinforcementWho is living in your backyardIt only makes sense that with all the information and other stuff available on the internet that you can now try dog training onlineAlthough we are unable to identify the exact time period in history when the bassett hound was created, some historians have noted that the first mention of this type of dog was found during 16th-century text that made mention to “short-legged dogs used for badger huntingIf you are looking at chicken coops for sale one of the first things you will realize is how many different kinds are availableHaving a sick dog on your hands is never a pleasant experienceThe burmese is a relatively modern breed of cat to europe and the united states of americaAlongside a fully functional cage, dog beds are perhaps one of the most vital pieces of dog-owning kit, providing your pooch with a comfortable and safe place to restIs your cat refusing to use the litter tray or box, no matter what you try to doFinally, a plush toy made for dogsIt is not only our responsibility as bird owners to provide food, water and spacious cage for our pet birdsMore horses q&a please visit : petsaskThe phrase, “putting on the dog” refers to people who try to appear wealthy or more important than they really areSince the tibetan terrier ‘willy’ (full name fabulous willy) won the trophy for best in show at crufts dog show 2007, many people may now be considering choosing the tibetan terrier as a family petOnce your dog has learned things like the commands to sit and lie down positions you can progress onto the ‘stay’ commandThere have been reports of various companies of mold remediation using dogs to detect the presence of toxic mold in homesPet promise dog food is made with real chicken from selective farmsSpringer spaniels make terrific family dogs for a number of reasons and if you’re looking for a dog, you should give this breed a good lookPuppies go through the stage of teething, which basically means he will chew almost anything he gets his teeth on whether they are shoes, wicker furniture or items and especially his bedBefore you run out and adopt a new member of the family, you need to evaluate your own lifestyle to see whether you have the resources to make a happy, healthy home for both of youIt was just in the newspaper – how the mailman delivered the post while the owners held back the big snarling dog; meanwhile the little dog dived between them, jumped up and drew blood from the postie’s legLabrador retriever dogs were raised to be great hunting dogs with the power, stamina, and motivation to chase down fallen game and swim as far needed to bring back the prey to its hunterIntroducing new dog strollers at pet stroller martThe choice of cages available for hamsters today is extremely vastIf you have never owned a puppy before, this article should help to prepare you for the many things that you should know and expect from your puppy and some of your responsibilities as the owner, as far as how you should go about properly training themThe giant schnauzer, also referred to as a riesenschnauzer, is a german breed that was developed to be a cattle dogA businessperson with even a casual liking of pets is positioned to capitalize big-time on america’s pet crazeMany people most of the time travelDog breeding is not as simple as you thinkMatting occurs in dogs when its hair gets intertwined and lockedFrom the moment you first take ownership of your new puppy or kitten right up until it is time to say goodbye to them, it is important to be proactive with your cat or dog’s healthEvery owner will have cat health questions from time to timeSometimes a cat will not like the location of his or her litter boxI would not mind betting that like me, you thought that to build a poultry shed would be a pretty difficult thing to doIf you’re wondering whether you’ll ever find a pet for allergies sufferers, relax, and read onMany people don’t have the patience, energy and/or time to dedicate to training their dogWe all know that cats are loving and truly wonderful creaturesOne of the challenges that dog lovers like you may be facing is how to train a dogAs mentioned, an unsightly protein scum may appear on the surface of the waterThe history of the shih tzu dog breed spans more than hundreds of years and finds it very beginnings in chinaThe friesian horse, one of europe’s oldest domesticated breeds, originated in friesland, a province of the netherlandsDogs are plagued by the illnesses that irritate people, such as diarrheaDescription: the weimaraner is a fairly large, athletic hunting dogAre you looking for one thing that cures kennel coughWithout the proper cat litter and trays , a cat can create quite an unpleasant odour in the homeThe growing puppy should be weighed once a week for the first six months of his lifeThe dachshund breed is a proud and loyal breedHousehold pets are susceptible to a multitude of dangers lying around the house and even some in their own bird cageThere is a new sizzling item coming alongside today to assist pets — memory foam bedsTraining pet parrots has a lot of benefits likeThere are some dog owners who frequently purchase clothing for their pets, while other dog owners think that buying clothing for a dog is unnecessaryWhat is the single most significant ancillary item in household aquariumsThese types of food materials are different with different grades of liking by the dogsDog first aid kits are easy enough to createWalking your dog is a great way to bond with your furry friend, but for many of us, those daily walks can also turn into a nightmareMost shih tzu puppies present themselves normally at birthNot only big in size, newfoundland dogs are big in strength and big on loyaltyWhen is the best time to potty train your puppyPet urine odor in your home can be so offensive to family and friends that they may not want to visitIf you are concerned about the quality of the food you feed your dogs, you may consider making homemade food for themTo golfers: ping rapture v2 iron when we talk about petsCats are unlike any other domesticated animal in that they have retained an independent streak despite centuries of living with humansAs dogs continue to become a more integral part of families, dog products continue to evolve to address the full range of needs for our four legged family members and the desires of their ownersHeated dog beds are well-known for its unlimited benefits both for dogs and dog owners, and no doubt making a better quality of lifeCalling all dog-loversAdopting a dog from dogs for sale kennel is a very important decisionExcessive barking can really drive your neighbors madThe use of electronic training devices has become increasingly widespreadWhenever you start a new hobby it is very tempting to try to get everything at onceDeclawing is a major surgery known as onychectomy, performed under anesthesia, that removes the tip of each digit (from the first knuckle out) of the cat’s forepawsThe beagle is a very intelligent, loving, food-motivated dogIn order to be a pet sitter, you really need to have a good understanding of what types of situations you can handle regarding the care of someone else’s pet, and those that you cannotHave you ever watched your dog sleepA shorthair cat, sokoke is believed to have originated many centuries ago in sokoke-arabuko rainforest in eastern kenyaYou may have seen people pushing their dogs or cats through the park in a pet stroller and thought that they were really pampering their petsCatnip cat toys are a great gift for any of your feline friendsAre you fed up with the aggressive ways of your four legged companionWhile parents cannot control every event, there are measures and precautions you can take to help your child avoid a dog biteThe system is very easily installed and will give your dog complete freedom which he may not perceive otherwiseYou’ve picked out the perfect puppyPeople say that the way one dresses says a lot about him/herAnaconda snakes, for sure, conjures up an image of a gigantic, black, serpentine creature slithering in mud and constricting a hapless creature to deathIf you are a nature lover but yet find yourself living in a small space, you may think that you have to settle for the sounds of the birds and the wind that gently seep through your open windowNew mature flea and tick medications can rid your cat or dog of excruciating sound and flea infestations in 12 hours for fleas and 48 hours for ticksLet’s face it, dogs and cats are so cute and adoringToday i fell into a trap that i should never have allowed myself to get intoSome facts about silky terrier pet dogs have forever been man’s best buddyFor most pet owners, pets hold a special place in the householdMany enlightened cat owners look to herbal treatment for cat health complaintsIf you have a pet pooch, you’re probably already familiar with the benefits of dog ownershipFeline obesity is a threat to the health and lifespan of your catThe normal gestation period of a siamese cat is about sixty-five days, although this may vary a day or two either sideHydrotherapy or water therapy is great way to provide a low impact exercise for your dog, with or without joint painPets definitely help us live longer and healthier livesCarrying your dog around is almost like a fashion accessory these daysAs you begin to read through this informative article, give each point a chance to sink in before you move on to the nextTraining a dog requires many hours of dedication and patienceThe population of cats is the united states alone is unbelievableJust as we are vulnerable to acquiring certain diseases, our dogs can also get themA window pet door is usually made for small animals like kittens and puppiesIf you want to be successful in potty training your puppy, then you have to choose a tried and tested methodGermans have a centuries old tradition of breeding dogsDescription: the great pyrenees is a large, shepherding dogThere are a good deal of factors that ought to be taken into consideration when it comes to choosing the style of chickens coops that is able to best fill your requirementsFor a dog or a small child, living in a cabin can be a huge treat, with lots of places to explore and play inThe australian shepherd is a working sheep and farm dog that might do quite poorly in an apartmentCat grooming is imperative to your pet’s healthGuinea pigs are one of the most popular household pets, next to dogs and catsEnter your email address to subscribe to our freepet knowledge magazine which is e-mailed every week with tons of helpful secrets the pet industry does not want you to knowIn fishing, trout are one of the favorite “fishing friends” of most anglersThis time of year can be a worrying and confusing one for your dog, occurrences like bonfire night don’t happen very often and that’s what makes it a lot scarier for your dog or puppyBeing able to own a dog can be an extremely rewarding and life changing experienceThe sport of fly fishing has been around for years and yearsDog addison’s disease or canine hypoadrenocorticism is caused by a lower than normal production of hormones by the adrenal glands (a small gland located near the kidney that secretes several different substances such as salt, sugar and water that help regulate normal body functions) that results from the reduction in corticosteroidThe mastiff dog has because of links to history a very long and storied traditionIf you are looking out for a purebred dog, you will probably want to find a breeder from whom you should purchase the animalChewing is normal for all puppiesYou bring your cute, fun loving puppy home for the first time and of course you want your him to sleep with youIndoor potty training is the way to go if you have a dachshund puppyI am sure that the last thing you want to hear is me banging on about some great website that is host to some of the easiest to follow chicken coop plans that are currently available, but the truth is that to build a simple diy chicken coop using the information and plans that i discovered really could not be any easierFor those whose hobby is keeping discus fish, it is very advisable to recognize not just regarding how to raise them but as well as knowledge about a variety of diseases which have effect on themIf you are going to keep and look after chickens surely one of the most important factors involved is going to be their living accommodationThe brand made for sportsmen, sportdog products lead the best in dog field hunting and trainingLeopard geckos are lucky in that there are relatively few health issues which tend to affect themI used to wonder curiously about clicker obedience training for dogsMiniature schnauzers have a striking and unique appearanceThis is a new series (1-30) of verse noWhether your dog is a few years old or a little puppy, there will be a time when you may have to go away from the town and you may need a substitute to look after your adorable petThe alaskan malamute is a stunningly beautiful large breed of dogYou have to know that even your pet needs dental careQuestion – is there really such a thing as urinary tract health cat food, one that will make a difference to my cat’s healthThe best antioxidants for cats cleanse the lymph system and liver and enhance immunity to prevent and fight off infection and diseaseGiant green iguanas are the “in” thing nowRelief from heat does not come easily specially for our furry friendBall pythons are now drawn from the wild and sold as petsPerhaps the most popular pet in the world is the dogTake care when introducing cattle to grain and pelleted diets as there is a risk of grain poisoningWhen you think to buy your horse saddle pad then you should know that there are varieties of different styles of pads, which are easily available in the marketEach one of us who has a canine will face different types of training challengesA dog is a member of your family that needs its own spaceMany dog owners are unaware that canine bladder enlargement can pose a serious problem if left untreatedDogs have proven to be man’s best friend and for this reason, most dog lovers or owners treat their pets like family by giving them proper attention and careLike so many other things, the rigging of a saddle is where it is today through evolutionWhen we think of a guinea pig, we usually picture the american guinea pig – the “classic” or “standard” guinea pig – and also the most commonThe whippet is a sensitive, intelligent and sweet dogWhen your dog is performing a nice trick or behaves good during training or a certain event you feel like giving him a nice dog treatAsk a pet ownerYour dog is really lovable, rightChoosing between cat breeds can be like trying to decide which snowflake is prettierMany times it is hard to decide whether to get freshwater aquarium plants or to go with fake plantsDog obedience trainingA true brahmin, the boston terrier can trace its roots back to 1865 in boston, maIf you want to know how to train your alano espanol puppy, this article can help you get in the right mindsetDo you know that pet sitters offer an option that often works out as the best solution for rover’s care while you are away from homeAll dogs are not created equally, and not all dogs will follow through with all of the standards of the breedGeneral dog grooming is essential to the good health and well-being of your dogThere are hundreds of dog training tricks, some are just basic commands, and others represent complex exercisesAny dog owner wants the paramount for his/her canine pal, and in multiple forms, supplying that optimal care translates into a responsibility that influences time management, and financial organizationIf you’re looking for chicken house building plans, then this article is going to clue you in on a few things you should knowIt happens every nightYou will find that dogs are very nice petsRaising a healthy pig at home commences with the process of bio-securityAnyone who has owned a pet knows that buying pet supplies can become an extremely expensive endeavorHas this ever happened to youMy jack russell terrier vinny was full of playful energy when i first brought him homeIt’s great to hear the birds chirping in the morning making it sweeter and brighter but how can you get them near youConures originate from central america, south america, mexico and the caribbeanProper aquarium maintenance is very crucial in goldfish careDogs need supplements just as much as humans doWouldn’t it be great if you didn’t have to keep your dog tied all the time when he’s outdoorsDog beds are in different size as the dogs are differentHere’s a scenario for you to think aboutIn addition, over the years, the parvo virus has mutated into at least two different strainsTeaching your puppy crate training is the first and best step in his lifeKnowing the correct way of caring for pigs is the secret of becoming a successful pig farmerA pet is more than a family member; it is a soul mate, a friend for life and its passing can cause immense emotional suffering to its owner and those around himThe bichon frise (pronounced ‘bee-shone freeze’) is a curly all-white dog with a puffball appearance and a very puffy headGrizzly bear description the grizzly bear seems to be among the most common that people recognize by its appearanceWhen it comes to setting up your very one goat farm, knowledge in raising goats is definitely keyIn the united states, half the number of households owns either a cat or a dog as petsIs it possible to train a dog or puppy to leave a bowl of food that you place down on the floor in front of him/her and not eat the food until you give a commandFor many new dog owners, housetraining is one of the most challenging parts of introducing a new canine into the familyFive dog training mistakes to avoidThe first time your dog receives a correction from the bark control collar he may react in a way that concerns youLearning how to teach your parrot bird not to bite is one of the most important skills for a pet parrot ownerCanine diabetes, often referred to as “sugar diabetes” is generally speaking, quite a common ailment in dogs, it is not difficult to identify as a simple urine test will reveal the cause of the problemDogs and catsMy cat panting issues really worried me to an extreme levelBoxer dogs boxer dogs were created in germany; boxer is a breed of stocky, short haired, medium size dogDespite what some naysayers are claiming on the internet, the goldendoodle dog is not a fading fadIguanas are usually small in sizePets are many things in many ways but they are not responsibleImbued in english culture is a love animals of all kindsHorses are known for their horse sense, horse power, loyalty, dedication and what notThere are various diseases that can affect your bettaCat owners know for a fact that bad cat breath can be downright awfulTired of dog barkingAfrican grey parrots’ food must not be only seed, howeverAutomatic litter boxes are a wonderful convenience for cat owners with busy schedulesWhen you are ready to get a dog, you’ll find that there are many breeds available to youDomesticated dogs, much like humans, like to be pampered and comfortableIt can be one of the most stressful situations that you can go through, whenever your pet is lostIf you are thinking of getting a cairn terrier pet dog, then you need to know some information about it firstWhen a good dog suddenly starts displaying aggressive or even hostile behavior it can be a frightening experience for any dog ownerParakeets are small, vibrant and lively birds that can be a wonderful addition to your familyYou love your ferret, and you can do anything for him/her to have all the worldly comforts and enjoymentLasik is the abbreviation for laser-assisted in situ keratomileusisThe affectionate and energetic cavalier king charles spaniel makes a perfect family dog or companionOne of the harshest facts about the winter months, especially in the northern states, is that many factors combine to make it hard for birds to find foodEvery day thousands of dogs are ‘put to sleep’, which is a kind way to saying that they are euthanizedNo matter how hard you try to keep your basset hound dog healthy, he is still susceptible to some diseases that could hinder his normal activitiesSummer is when dogs are most at risk of being affected by heatstrokeThe razor sharp teeth that puppies seem to have can cause you some painWhen learning to ride a horse you want to make sure that you pick out a good one that works best for youIf you are planning on owning a baby ferret, there are some facts that you might like to knowNumerous studies have shown that more americans are obese today than ever before and, interestingly, we’re not the only onesThroughout history the greyhound has been the darling dog breed of royalty and nobilityTurtles have always been popular as petsAmong the animals of equal or greater strength, the horse is the most useful to man because of its superior nervous developmentPit bull owners who love their pets obviously want to do what is best for themThere are times when a hunter fails to hunt the deer because the deer could sense the danger which is comingCongratulationsTry as we may, there are certain afflictions that our animals seem to be prone to contracting despite our best effortsDid you know that cancer is the leading cause of death in american dogs; 1 in 4 dogs die of cancer here in the united statesDogs called german shepherds were first exhibited at shows in germany towards the end of the nineteenth century but they were hardly shepherds as we know them today being rough coated, short tailed and rather resembling mongrelsIf you get your cavalier king charles spaniel from a quality breeder, you can be fairly certain that you will have an excellent dog that will bring years of happinessFish are like people in many ways, in that the fish demand oxygen, food, water, cleanliness, tender loving care, associations, and so onDogs are the preferred pet of many families because they are smart, lovable, and loyal, which makes them a joy for both children and adultsAquatic plants do carry the other half of the marine ecosystem, and are good additions to aquariums simply because they make the marine life equation completeOwners of dogs should place greater emphasis on the prevention of dental diseases in their petsSaltwater aquariums are a source of pleasure in many homes, and young and old people alike love to watch themThe dog is one of the most beloved house pets around the world and have been bringing joy and laughter to families for years and yearsCats are greatly popular, and among the top favorites to have as petsIf you have been thinking about starting poultry of your own but don’t know how to begin, then this article is written for youSharing your home with a cat is the greatest joy in life, as she offers you love companionship and loyaltyDog training will transform the dog’s mannerisms, from a dog that will not do as he is told by you to a dog that will pay attention to your orders, from a dog that is annoying the neighbors into a calm one, from a dog that is at all times scampering from you into a dog that will remain at a halt at your orderWhat are heartwormsLyme disease in dogs is a condition that can cause a wide range of problems with your dogWhether you are considering becoming a first time dog owner or adding a new canine member to your household, consider a breed-based rescue organization as a great source for your new petMany a times we see that there are posters and advertisements given on the television and various other sources that there is a clearance sale for particular productsStrained canis familiaris wall :Most people think that disciplining a dog is laborious and expensive

postheadericon Education begins at home, but it doesn’t end there

Education begins at home, but it doesn’t end there. It’s important that you supplement your dog’s home schooling with a good obedience class – or several! Why is obedience school so necessary? Well, here’s a starter list:

1. You and your dog will learn more advanced commands. You’ve got a good start with “sit” and “let’s go,” but in class you’ll master exercises like “down,” “stay,” “heel,” “stand” and “come” as well – the vocabulary she’ll need to become a really responsive and trustworthy friend and partner.

2. Your instructor can address your specific needs. Books and videotapes are great, but they can’t stay after class to discuss your dog’s individual problems or strong points, they can’t demonstrate new moves to you, and they can’t tell you whether you’re holding your leash funny or giving your dog a confusing command. There’s really no substitute for the one-on-one attention and suggestions of a good instructor.

3. You ‘II learn from the other people and dogs in the class. Your classmates may have new ideas for you, or you may pick up tips just from watching them. And you’ll find that they’re sympathetic to your problems and proud of your successes in ways that your non-dog-loving friends may not be.

4. Your dog will get used to other people and dogs. This is a biggie. No amount of backyard practice can teach your dog to behave in the presence of other exciting people or pups. And if your dog is still a little worried about the world at large – and many of them are – obedience class will give her a chance to make friends and gain confidence. So even if you’ve already been through obedience class with another dog and know the ropes, it’s a good idea to take your new dog to a class of her own.

5. It’ll give you an incentive to train your dog. Let’s face it, sometimes it’s tough to get motivated for your daily training sessions when you know only a couple of exercises and you don’t have an instructor and classmates to keep you from getting lazy!

6. You’ll have a terrific time. Obedience class is fun! You’ll make new friends (I know several married couples who met in obedience class) and get lots of exercise, and your relationship with your new dog will soar to new levels. And who knows? You might just get hooked on dog training and find yourself with a new hobby.

postheadericon There are at least 20 symptoms and signs that you should be aware of that your goldendoodle needs to see a vet if you are a new dog owner

There are at least 20 symptoms and signs that you should be aware of that your Goldendoodle needs to see a vet if you are a new dog owner.  Unfortunately too many people wait until it is too late to get their pet to the vet,  then wonder why it passed away.  While it is a decision delimma for many,  it is very important that you take your Goldendoodle to the vet if the follow occurs:

1. Decreased appetite 

2. Lethargy  (especially in a young puppy or senior dog)

3. Vomiting

4. Diarrhea

5. Straining to potty….either thru urine or the other

6. Not gaining any weight or fails to grow

7. Appearing too thin

8. Constant scratching or chewing on the feet or tail

9. Shaking its head and scratching at the ears

10.  Loss of hair (more than normal)

11. Coughing

12. Sneezing

13. Limping  (for unexplained reasons)

14. Not able to housebreak  (could be urinary tract infection)

15. Excessive drinking  (should check for diabetes….especially if your pet is over weight.)

16. Can’t tolerate exercising

17. Has collapsed

18. Excessive urination

19. Urinates or loses bowls suddenly and without warning

20. Has blood in the stool

Healthy living  with your Goldendoodle starts with maintaining a healthy diet and keeping up with appropriate vaccinations.  Many pet owners fail to keep their puppy’s vaccinations current and this causes the puppy to be at risk for catching parvo, distemper or other deadly canine diseases.  Your Goldendoodle puppy’s first visit is usually called a “wellness check up”.  During this type of check up,  your veterinarian will look at your doodle’s eyes, ears, teeth  and listen to his or her heart.  They will look for puppy cataracts and possible heart murmurs.  They will look at your doodle’s coat and weigh him or her.  Some vets will let you walk in while others require a scheduled appointment.

Viral infections with puppies can occur suddenly and without warning.  Early recognition can help your puppy survive if he or she has become ill.  Puppies can become dehydrated quickly which is why it is very important to not wait if you suspect there is something wrong.  Better to be safe than sorry.

Keep your doodle’s vet records up to date.  It is important for your vet to know what you are feeding your doodle, how much and when.  Your vet may recommend changes if your doodle is gaining weight too rapidly or not enough weight at appropriate stages…especially in the first year.   Know your doodle’s birthdate.  Depending upon where your Goldendoodle resides,  it is important to pay attention to fleas and ticks.  Goldendoodles should NOT be on any type of topical flea preventatives.  These type of treatments can cause early organ failure and sudden seizures.  “Comfortis” is recommended for Goldendoodles which is a once a month flea preventative.    When your Goldendoodle turns 2 years of age,  you may want to have your veterinarian x-ray the hips so that they can be evaluated.  Just because your doodle’s parents had an OFA rating of good, fair or excellent does not mean that your doodle is free and clear of possible hip problems.   Testing is only valid for the dog that is evaluated,  not for offspring.

?It is understandable that many Goldendoodle owners are stressed when taking their new puppy in to see their vet.  Your doodle can only communicate through his or her body lanquage.  Unfortunately,  they can’t tell us where they hurt or how they feel.  Owners who are stressed out can transfer their anxiety to their doodle.  If you are tense, worried, scared, upset or feeling anxious,  you will transfer those feelings to your Goldendoodle.  They are very sensitive dogs.   They will then associate those feelings each and every time he or she goes to the vet.  Try not to be anxious when its time to take your Goldendoodle to the vet.

 The foundation of a healthy Goldendoodle is very important.  A healthy Goldendoodle is central to his or her well being.   Try to make an effort at being calm, relaxed and positive when it is time to take your doodle to the vet.   If you are purchasing a young puppy,  make sure to “puppy proof” your home.  Children always have small toys that can easily fit inside of your doodle’s mouth.  Small toys can be swallowed which can cause choking and possible death.  A good rule of thumb is that if an object is small enough to fit into your doodle’s mouth,  he or she can swallow it.

We like to think that our dogs have common sense.  They don’t.  If you can’t supervise your doodle,  make sure that he or she is either crated or somewhere that is enclosed to help keep your doodle from getting hurt.  Goldendoodles are very intelligent dogs.  They can easily escape from your yard or slip out of their collar or leash.  Don’t let your doodle run loose as they will then be at risk for being hit by a vehicle.   Don’t leave pills lying around.  I, myself, am a diabetic who takes glipizide.  This lowers blood sugar.  This medication can be deadly to any pet who eats it.   I have to always be careful to NOT drop a pill and if I do drop a pill,  I have to immediately find it and pick it up.  Never leave medications on a counter or table where a puppy or adult dog can easily get to it.

Lastly,  there are tons of great books and videos on the market to help you learn how to be a good mommy or daddy to your Goldendoodle.  Being prepared is the best took for surviving an emergency. 

*About the author:  Dee Gerrish has been writing about the Goldendoodle dog since 1999.  More about Goldendoodles can be found on her website at http://www.goldendoodleworld.com

postheadericon A pet is more than a family member; it is a soul mate, a friend for life and its passing can cause immense emotional suffering to its owner and those around him

A pet is more than a family member; it is a soul mate, a friend for life and its passing can cause immense emotional suffering to its owner and those around him. However, even if those close to you can understand your suffering, few of them will know how to comfort you or ease the pain that you are feeling. Fortunately, for all pet owners all over the world, there is someone that can not only understand the pain associated with the loss of your pet, but can also ease that pain and help you forever cherish the memory of your beloved dog, cat or other pet.

There are several ways through which you can honor your pet’s life and forever keep him in your memory. You can choose a pet urn, either a dog urn or a cat urn, or you can have a pet memorial. These two methods will help you relief the grief you feel over the loss of your beloved pet, they can make others understand what you are going through and most importantly, they represent the closure that you need in such times.

Pet urns can be brought online and shipped in two days maximum. They are a constant reminder of your pet and one of the most beautiful ways of showing your love for your dog or cat. With over seven hundred models to choose from, dog urns can give you that needed closure as well as the felling that your beloved pet is always going to stay with you. Dog urns or cat urns can be customized to your satisfaction and delivered in record time. There is nothing more comforting than having your beloved pet next to you forever. Dog urns and cat urns can bring you that satisfaction.

Another great method of celebrating your pet’s life is having a pet memorial. Sharing your feelings is one of the most efficient ways of relieving the pain felt with the loss of your dog or cat.  However, if those around do not understand and share your feelings or your need to have a dog memorial, than you cannot get the closure you need.  Fortunately for you, there are online web sites where you can have your dog memorial or your cat memorial. You can post pictures of your cat or dog, you can express your feelings about the loss of your friend and you can celebrate its life. This online dog memorial or cat memorial will certainly bring you the closure that you need and something extra: it will allow your pet to live forever! By having this pet memorial, you will also be able to share and celebrate the life of you dear, departed friend and companion.

Celebrating your dog or cat’s life by purchasing a pet urn or by having a pet memorial is the best and easiest way of paying a tribute to the one that made your life beautiful, fun and exciting. Furthermore, you will be able to share your feeling with people who will understand you and who understand the pain you are going through. Don’t be sad that your pet has left you, celebrate what it has given you and make it proud to have been your pet!

postheadericon Canister filters are renowned to be the most efficient fish tank filters around today

Canister filters are renowned to be the most efficient fish tank filters around today.  It is true that they will cost a lot initially but if you can afford to install one, they will save you a whole lot in terms of time spent maintaining them and of course money.  But for people who have already installed a canister filter in their aquarium, what now comes to mind is whether they should then install two filters and what are the benefits of this extra filtration to the aquatic life?

Actually, this is a matter of preference that most fish breeders cannot agree on whether it is a good idea or not to have two canister filters in one tank.  That question has been argued about since canister filters were invented.

Rather than taking a side, I will instead talk about what happens when you have two canister filters in one aquarium and it will be up to you to decide which you choose.

The Benefits Of Having Two Canister Filters.

The obvious reason for most supporters of two filters is backup.  That is to say that you will have a spare filter running in case one of them needs repair, thus ensuring that the water in your fish tank remains filtered.  This reason becomes even more critical for those who live a distance from the nearest aquarium store and cannot get hold of spare parts fast enough.

Another reason is the size of the fish tank itself.  People who like more than one filter say that if the aquarium is too big, one filter will not be enough to cleanse the entire tank as there will be blind spots where the water will not be drawn  into the filter.  Having two canister filters with their inlet positioned at opposite ends of the tank will ensure that there are no blind spots.

What’s The Downside Of Using Two Canister Filters

The main issue about having multiple canister filters is water movement.  The movement of water in the aquarium affects the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide.  The faster the rate at which water moves, the faster the exchange will be thus reducing the amount of CO2 in the tank.  But isn’t less CO2 better?  Well, not if you also have aquatic plant life.  Plants take in CO2 and expell O2.  By doing so, plants actually help maintain a healthy balance of CO2/O2 levels in the water.  Having insufficent carbon dioxide levels will stunt the plants growth and cause them to lose their lustre.

Also, excessive filtering will not only filter out the waste materials but also the nutrients that plants are very dependant on.  it is actually true that in a tank with plants, it is the plants that provide a netter and more efficient biological filtration than the beneficial bacteria.

And lastly, and this is especially important for fish that naturally come from a slow moving environment, too much water movements will actually be bad for the health of your fish.  Too much movement places unnecessary stress on them as well as actually stunt their ability to breed.  So these are the pros and cons of having more than one canister filter in a single aquarium.

If you do plan to install an additional filter, just remember to reduce their suction rates to counter balance the disadvantages.

postheadericon Senior pet tips: simple things you can do to make your senior pets more comfortable

Senior Pet Tips: Simple Things You Can Do To Make Your Senior Pets More Comfortable

As our beloved companions get older they begin to slow down and many suffer from the same age-related wear and tear as we humans do. Arthritis, gastric upsets, diminished senses, sensitivity to extreme heat and cold are just a few. Below is a list of tips you can use to make your senior pet more comfortable, happy and healthy.

Feed the best diet

Feeding your pet high quality food not only makes them feel better, but can reduce the chances of illness and disease in the future. Raw food, home-cooked meals or premium commercial food will go a long way in keeping your pet happy and healthy. And don’t forget to add variety to your pets diet. By rotating what you feed you are insuring that your pet gets a more balanced array of vitamins and minerals. Not to mention, how would you like to eat the same thing day after day year after year. Be careful, however to introduce dietary changes gradually to avoid tummy upset and diarrhea. Begin by adding in 1/4 of the new food to what you currently feed for between 5 to 7 days. The second week feed 1/2 new food to 1/2 the current diet and so on until you have made a complete change. Once your pet gets used to more variety they will more easily tolerated dietary changes.

Consider adding supplements

Adding natural vitamins and supplements can also be of great benefit to our pets, especially seniors. My personal “Holy Trinity” is a good Mulit-Vitamin, EFA’s (essential fatty acids) and a Plant Enzyme and Probiotic Supplement (such as Animal Essentials). A good multi-vitamin will ensure your pet receives adequate daily amounts of necessary vitamins and minerals. EFA’s do more than keep skin and coat healthy. EFAs are the building blocks for prostaglandins, which work to regulate hormones, immune and nervous systems and cardiovascular function. People and pet’s bodies cannot make them and so they need to be added to our diet. Enzymes and Probiotics help enhance your pet’s health by promoting the proper balance of good intestinal flora and by supporting the digestive systems that aid in the assimilation and utilization of vitamins and nutrients. Enzymes combine with food and water to aid in the breakdown of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates.

Even if your dog or cat is not displaying signs of arthritis you can help prevent or slow the onset by starting them on a natural supplement designed to promote joint and cartilage health. Look for supplements that contain ingredients such as glucosamine, chrondroitin, MSM, vitamin C, white willow bark (not for cats), boswellin, yucca powder, manganese ascorbate, bromelain, selenium (especially in conjunction with vitamin E), vitamins C, A, and E. In addition, Omega 3 fatty acids from fish oils has shown promise in treating arthritis in animals and humans.

Buy an orthopedic pet bed

Beds made out of convoluted foam offer greater support for sore achy joints and muscles. Soft fluffy beds may look and feel appealing to us, but as anyone with back problems will tell you, a nice firm bed is much more comfortable. The same is true with our pets.

Raise your pet’s food and water bowls

Raise your pet’s food and water bowls to provide the height that your dog (or cat) needs for healthy eating and drinking. Raised feeders minimize neck strain and reduce air ingestion making them ideal for senior and large breed pets.

Be aware of diminishing sight and hearing

Don’t drastically rearrange rooms and furniture as your pet has probably learned to navigate his/her environment quite well and sudden changes can lead to fear and confusion. When approaching your older pet make sure they can see or hear you coming. A pet with sight or hearing loss can become very startled by an unexpected touch. Clapping your hands or making some other loud noise can help alert pets of your approach. The vibrations created by walking heavy-footed also work well to alert pets that someone is coming.

Just like people, our pets become more sensitive to extreme heat and cold

Provide pets with a warm place to lie and sleep in the winter, away from drafty windows and doors. Consider buying a heated bed or insert to keep them cozy. In the summer, make sure outdoor areas have plenty of shade and cool fresh water available at all times. Indoors, make sure they have a cool spot away from direct sunlight.

Ramps and special harnesses can make life for seniors much easier and less painful

They can help them climb stairs, get in and out of vehicles, rise from lying down and provide extra support while standing or walking. Cats can greatly benefit from portable stairs that aid them up and down from the bed, couch or other favorite cuddle spot.

Don’t forget about exercise

Your older pet still needs to get out there and be part of the world; drinking in the fresh air and soaking up some sunshine. It’s just as important for them to keep moving as it is for us when we age. Be aware, however that you need to adjust the length and strenuousness of their exercise. Shorter distances and less challenging terrain may be needed. And, definitely be careful in any extreme weather, as older animals cannot tolerate extremes like when they were younger. Also, make sure you always have an ample supply of clean water for you and your pet.

Christine Mandrake is the owner of WellBeings.com, a site that is dedicated to providing information and resources about caring for senior pets.

http://www.wellbeings.com