Your Guide To Goat Farming

Writen by Morgan Hamilton

The goats produce two very important products in goat farming - the milk and the meat. In most of the large goat farms the goats are treated much like dairy cows as their accommodations are indoors and they are milked twice a day. Large farmers have more than 400-500 goats in their farms.

The breeding season for goats in farms is from August to March. The goat's pregnancy lasts for four months and they are generally bred once a year, so their kids are born between January and August. The female goats give birth to one to five kids and twins are to be expected.

A female goat in a farm can start mating after the age of seven to nine months while it can be milked when the goat reaches a year. Goats give birth easily, so no special help is needed. However, the farmers need to make sure that the kids nurse from their mother, if they don't, they should be fed from a bottle. This should be done right after the kid is born as this is when it receives the critical first milk which is called colostrum. After it is fed with colostrum containing minerals, vitamins and antibodies for a few days, the kid could be fed with milk formula or could nurse from its mother.

Breeding goats in a farm is quite similar to breeding cows. The kids of goats should be given a milk formula until they can be weaned; this is after they reach five to seven weeks of age. This is the time when the goats are then milked.

In a goat farm the females are given a two month period before giving birth, they need this time so that they could give nutrition to their kids after birth. As far as milking goats in diary farms is concerned, goats are milked twice a day, usually in intervals of 12 hours. The milk can be extracted by machine or by hand depending on the kind of techniques and work force the goat farm has. Another thing which makes breeding goats and cows similar is that the both use up to date diary production which should meet certain hygienic requirements.

If the farmer is interested more in meat production, then the kids of the goats should be nursed from eight to ten weeks. After that they are to be fed hay, grain and pasture until they gain enough weight, which can vary from 35 to 90 pounds.

When a farmer is breeding goats for their meat, he should consider the goats' breed and then decide what optimal weight the goats should reach. Different breeds of goat reach different weight. Goat farming might not be the first thing you considered when talking about farming, but it is a profitable and enjoyable business activity.

Morgan Hamilton offers expert advice and great tips regarding all aspects concerning pets. Get the information you are seeking now by visiting Goat Farming

Dog Vomiting Help Your Dog Now

Writen by Chris Suckow

In most cases you should not be too concerned about your dog vomiting. If you know that the dog got into something or you changed its diet, you can probably wait 24 hours to see if the vomiting clears up, but only if your dog does not appear lethargic.

You must withhold food for 24 hours and then gradually start a bland diet. If at any time the dog becomes worse please see your veterinarian.

If your dog has been vomiting continually for more than 1 hour or if he has been vomiting on and off for 24 hours, it is severe and you should bring him in to see the doctor.

Vomiting can have lots of causes. Sometimes the cause can be straightforward. An easy indication maybe what was the pet's last meal.

Sometimes the consistency of the vomit may indicate what's wrong.

• Undigested food-1.food poisoning 2. Anxiety, 3.simply overeating

• Strong odor-intestinal obstruction.

If no vomiting occurs in 24 hours, then you can try and give some ice cubes followed by water. If no vomiting occurs, then give a small amount of a bland diet. If the dog continues to vomit, call your veterinarian.

What to do for dog vomiting

1. withholding food for 24 hours.

2. Feed a bland diet, consisting of 2/3 rice, sweet potato or oatmeal and 1/3 of the meal should be well cooked non-fatty meats like chicken.

3. Feed only 1/2 of the normal amount of food at a time. Or you can feed several small meals until the vomiting has subsided.

Find out what additional steps you can take to help your sick dog at http://www.free-online-veterinarian-advice.com

You can submit a question to the veterinarian by clicking here http://www.free-online-veterinarian-advice.com/askavet.html

Chris Suckow, DVM, currently lives and works in Los Angeles.

Dog Health Basics 6 Signs Of A Healthy Dog

Writen by Tapan Sarkar

Having a friendly, loyal dog in the household is a real joy. But as a dog owner and dog lover you must be aware of certain facts about your dog's health. Your awareness of these facts will help you to ensure that your dog is always in top shape because when you are aware what are the signs of good health in a dog you can pretty easily note the deviation from that and take precaution before the problem takes serious turn.

Here are the simple tips for every dog lover.

1. In general a dog's nose is always moist and cool. If you find it is hot and dry then it is sign of problem. Most common cause of this is dehydration. Give it sufficient amount of water to drink. But don't give lot of water at one go. Preferably mix some electrolyte suitable for dog with the water.

Dehydration problem is common in hot summer months especially if the dog spends lot of time outdoor. But dryness of nose may be because of some reason other than simple dehydration; in that case you should consider consulting your vet.

2. Body temperature is a very good indicator of normal health. Body temperature of a healthy dog is around 101 degree Fahrenheit. It can be up to 102 degree Fahrenheit. But if temperature deviates from this range, you should consult your vet.

3. Another easy check is your dog's skin condition. Skin of a normal healthy dog is clean, free from dandruff and scurf, skin color pinkish white. Healthy skin also shows good amount of elasticity. When pinched or pulled dog's skin should return to original place in no time.

4. Inside the ears should be light in color and free from infection. Deep redness or wax accumulation indicates help of veterinary doctor should be sought.

5. Much like human beings eyes of dogs also tells a lot if you can read. Eyes of a healthy dog are clear and alert. If instead of that you find there is an expression of pain and discomfort or eye membranes are deep red in color instead of healthy pink, it indicates trouble.

6. Teeth of a healthy dog is clean and free from tarter. Dirty, loose or infected tooth means trouble and should cause concern.

By any means this is not an exhaustive list of things one should be aware of about dog health. But these are easy to check (anybody can check these without being a vet) and would help to detect most common ailment at the outset.

This article is written by Tapan Sarkar a dog enthusiast. For more info about dog care check the free ebook "Complete Dog Obedience Course" at http://www.pwrinfo.com/dogobedience

Animal Behavior What Is My Dog Saying

Writen by C. Bailey-Lloyd

Dogs are quite amiable creatures. Much like our human counterparts, their speech is often amplified by their body movements and facial expressions. If you haven't done so yet, carefully study your dog's eyes. Watch his eyebrow motions. Often times, we don't hear them speaking because we're too busy not paying attention to their eye motions. When your dog is facing you and his eyes shift suddenly back and forth, he's telling you that he wants something. Whether it's, "...hey, Mom - let's play,", "...come follow me, I want to show you something," or "...I need to go pee;" well - that's up to the individual animal himself.

Sometimes, dogs will look at you from the corner of their eye, will loudly yawn and fall to the ground. This is an obvious sign that they're bored and they want attention. Your attention.

Some dogs are rather bold with their sign language and will literally come up to you and place their paw on your leg, arm or hand. She'll either gently tap you or downright pounce on you. When she taps you - again - watch her eye movements. Are her eyes focused in one particular direction? Maybe the door, the empty water bowel or the dog food bag? Or after she taps you, does she press the side of her body against you? If she does, she wants to be stroked and loved. If she pounces on you with her paws, this is usually a sense of urgency. This usually means she wants to play rough or she needs to go outside and inspect the premises.

One of my favorite communication signals from dogs is when they lie on their backs, usually with forearms bent at the joints. This is the common "white flag" signal. What does "white flag" signal mean? Well, when dogs play with other dogs, this is their way of saying to one another, "...okay, I give up - you win, you're the leader..." But when they lie on their backs for you, it's even more telling. This means that they are submitting. You are the master and they willingly acknoweldge this to you. In general, when dogs lie with their backs toward you, this means that they are quite content and totally comfortable in their surroundings.

Don't be fooled by the wagging tail. Generally, dogs will wag their tails when excitable. But it's how they wag their tails that tells us exactly what they're feeling. When a dog wags his tail, along with his entire body, he's usually happy and excited. When a dog wags only his tail with short, fast strokes, this can sometimes show a sign of aggression or fear. When dogs meet other dogs for the first time, you will notice this short, fast-stroke tail wag as well. This can either mean that they are unsure of the other animal, or that they're going to become aggressive. Either way, be watchful of this "tail-tell" sign.

Another body language sign to look for is in the ears. When a dog's ears are back and flat against their skull, this can mean one of two things: 1) If accompanied by a full-body tail wag, they're happy to see you, or 2) if coupled with their tail between their legs, they're afraid.

One animal behavior that many folks despise is the chewing and destruction of personal belongings. This, too is animal speech. What most humans don't know is that aside from the destruction of personal property, dogs tend to chew things from their people owners, whom they like the most. Yes, I said, "whom they like the most." Dogs are fairly picky when it comes to chewing shoes, clothing, etc. When there are more persons in a household, dogs will specifically seek out personal items of people that they consider to be their master. Although this is not the nicest trait of animals, just remember that when you're scolding Rex that he only did it because he loves you.

In closing, dogs are the most telepathic lifeforms on earth. When you feel sad, they feel sad with you. When you are angry, they try to disolve the situation with their loving and pawing. When you're happy, they feel your happiness with you. Observe your animals, they are picking up on your emotions more than you may think. And always, love your animals - they're here only a little while...perhaps to teach us the most vital communication skill in the world - the ability to listen.

© 2004 - Animal Behavior: What is My Dog Saying?
by C. Bailey-Lloyd/LadyCamelot

About the Author: C. Bailey-Lloyd - Author of "Somewhere Along the Beaten Path"

Visit Media Positive Radio -- Providing a positive and uplifting listening experience - All the Time! Featuring the finest music from Independent and Mainstream musicians all focusing on the power and greatness of every individual as well as the collective power of unity and brotherhood.

NOTICE: Article may be republished free of charge as long as Author Resource Box (above) is included, and ALL Hyperlinks REMAIN in tact and active.

Which Parrot Is Right For Me

Writen by Medha Roy

Which parrot is right for me? This is a question that you must ask yourself before you think of keeping these lovely birds as pets. It is as important as your decision to have a child. You need to ask - which parrot is right for me - because every parrot has its distinctive temperament and nature. No two parrots are alike.

Parrots need a lot of attention and love to become adorable pets. Once they bond with you, you will realize how precious they are as pets. Choose your parrot according to your lifestyle.

10 Commandments for choosing the right parrot for your household:

No Impulse Shopping : Try not to adopt or purchase a pet on a whim or inspiration. Make it a deliberate, thought-out action.

Shop Around : Take the time to learn all about the kind of pet you are considering buying.

Visit The Humane Society And Animal Rescue Organizations : Pay a few walk-through trips to your local humane society. Just observe the pet when it is alone with you and try to make a mental list of its positive and negative points.

Match Your Pet To Your Life Style : Do you work long hours? Do you have children? Are they mature enough not to be a threat to the pet you choose? If you travel a lot who will care for the pet while you are away?

Match Your Pet To Your Home Environment : How much free space is there? Is there a back yard? Is it fenced? How will your neighbors feel about this new pet? If you rent, what will your landlord think about this pet?

Decide Why You Want A Pet : Is this pet going to be a child substitute? Do you want to teach it tricks and interact with it? Do you want to play with it and caress it? Your personality traits are very important.

Decide If This Is The Right Time In Your Life To Get A Pet : Frankly consider if this is really the right time in your life to own a (another) pet. If you already have other pets how will they get along with the new one? How stable are your human relationships? How good is your health?

Decide How Long You Want Your Pet To Live : Small parrots live 8-14 years; larger ones 35-60 years.

Decide If You Are Able To Meet This Pet's Specific Needs : It is a good idea to do some research at the library as to how much care your pet will need and visit pet owners. Do you have enough time to properly feed and clean for it? Many pets get bored if they do not have enough one-on-one contact. This boredom can lead to a host of undesirable behaviors.

Cost : Besides the initial cost of the pet you may incur considerable expense in purchasing the pet a suitable cage. Over time, the cost of a good diet will far exceed whatever you paid for the parrot. It may need veterinary care and grooming from time to time.

The main species are - parrots, macaws, conures, cockatoos, cockatiels, parakeets and budgies.

Parrots - Parrots are a very popular group of birds. Parrots are intelligent animals who depend on some degree of socialization and training. Different parrots have different needs. See that you cater to all these needs to have a healthy and happy parrot in your house.

Macaws - Macaws have been rightly called winged rainbows. Macaws are flamboyant, colorful, intelligent and captivating birds. Their personalities are legendary. Because of their great beauty and engaging personalities, macaws have been kept in captivity for centuries.

Conures - Conures are known for their sweet dispositions and playfulness. They definitely have a mind of their own. In the wild conures are friendly, peaceful birds and seldom fight with each other.

Cockatoos - Most are colored mainly in white, but others come in grays and pinks, blacks, and in the Palm's case, deep blue. Well-raised cockatoos are adorable; a hog for attention, a socialite , and just a pleasure to have around.

Cockatiels - Cockatiels are ideal for the first time pet owner. They are characteristically happy and cheerful birds, never moody or demanding. They demand to be let on your shoulder for a ride, and make cute noises.

Parakeets - 'Parakeets' means "small parrots". Their small size, bright colors, and cheerful disposition make them perfect pets. It is calming to listen to their quiet chattering and chirping. Some parakeets even learn to talk.

Budgies - Each has its distinctive personality. Some budgies may be sensitive while others might get into mischief at every opportunity. Its popularity is gained mainly by its amazing powers of mimicry, and its antics are very amusing.

Ask yourself again - which parrot is right for me? All parrots need time and patience to make wonderful pets. Some parrots are cheerful all the time, some are often moody. Some play on their own, while some always demand your company. These birds can make your life beautiful and chirpy, but they can also die of heart aches. Think hard before you make your choice!

This article can be re-printed and/or published online or offline for free, provided the website, www.pet-parrots.com, is posted along with it. The article must remain intact without any alteration.

The author is a parrot owner for the last 12 years. She works for http://www.pet-parrots.com

The Fox Terrier

Writen by Michael Russell

The Fox Terrier's function is that of a dog that will run with the hounds to worry and hold the fox at bay, or hunt by himself for foxes and other vermin. He is traditionally more white than any other color since, as a dog that ran with hounds, it was important that he be distinguishable from the fox. For centuries this dog has been bred "true" (with little variation in appearance or general structure). Long before he was ever in a show ring, this dog was a part of the hunting scene in Great Britain. He is one of the terriers that was bred to "go to ground" when giving chase to the fox.

In the late 1860s the dog became a regular entry in dog shows. At that time both the wirehaired and the smooth coated fox terriers were represented in one classification, but by 1876 the Fox Terrier Club was formed and the two coats began to be registered separately.

The smooth coat is exactly that, very short and dense and sleek in appearance. The coat in general is quite easy care and by nature the correct coat is waterproof. The smooth coated Fox terrier sheds normally twice a year. The "wire coat" is as the name implies, wiry and with a harsh texture. The wire coat also is one that will not shed out the dead hairs naturally, thus it must be "stripped" on a regular basis. Both dogs are generally white and may have black and tan markings or patches of brown or black. In appearance both dogs should show good muscle and strength of jaw. The chest should be deep and the legs straight. The tail is docked. Feet are tight and round. Nails need to be kept trimmed on a regular basis. The entire appearance should be that of balance and the movement should always be straight and true, the feet landing straight with no variation sideways. Good movement is always a sign of correct conformation.

The Fox terrier is highly alert and responsive to people. He makes an ideal pet, trustworthy and affectionate. He fits well into family life, undemanding and yet always aware of the members of his household, checking on his family regularly and being observant. Furthermore he usually is quite accepting of other dogs in the household, having been bred as a dog that will run with other dogs. He has excellent watchdog capabilities, giving loud warning of strangers , making such a clamor that he can not be ignored. This dog also makes the perfect "jogger's dog" as he is hardy and has great endurance, able to run for miles without tiring. He is friendly and outgoing with children and loves to learn new games, often inventing his own games. Fox terriers are quite intelligent and can be easily trained to do tricks. Their size makes them adaptable for agility exercises and they are also a favorite in the sport of flyball. Obedience, utility dogs, show dogs, therapy dogs, dogs for the deaf and hunting dogs...the Fox terrier fits any one of these descriptions.

Michael Russell Your Independent guide to Dogs

Shih Tzu Reward Training For Your Shih Tzu

Writen by Connie Limon

Reward training is often seen as the most modern method of training a shih tzu, but reward training is probably much older than other methods of dog training. It is possible that reward training for shih tzu has been around as long as there have been dogs of any breed to train. Early humans probably used some informal kind of reward training when taming the wolf pups that eventually evolved into modern dogs.

Many principles of modern reward training date back many decades. However, what is called reward training today has only enjoyed is remarkable popularity for the past 10 or 15 years.

Many reward training enthusiasts are less enthusiastic about other methods of shih tzu training, such as the traditional leash and collar method. However, the best approach to training any individual shih tzu is often a combination of leash/collar training and reward training.

In addition, a training method that works perfectly for one shih tzu may be totally inappropriate for another, and vice versa. Some shih tzu respond wonderfully to reward training and not at all to leash and collar training, while others respond to leash/collar training and are not at all motivated by reward training. Most shih tzu fall somewhere in the middle of these two extremes.

Clicker training is one of the most popular forms of reward training these days. While clicker training is not the answer for every shih tzu, it can be a remarkably effective method of training many shih tzu. In clicker training, the shih tzu is taught to associate a clicking sound with a reward, like a treat. The trainer clicks the clicker when the shih tzu does something good, followed immediately by a treat. Eventually, the shih tzu learns to respond to the clicker alone.

Most reward training uses some sort of food reward, or a reward that is associated with getting food. In most cases, complex behaviors can only be taught using this kind of positive reinforcement, and you will find that the people who train shih tzu for movies and television use reward training almost exclusively.

Reward training is used in all forms of dog training, including police work and military applications. Most scent detection, tracking and police dogs are trained using some form of reward training. Reward training is also a very effective way to teach many basic obedience commands.

Reward training often incorporates the use of a lure in order to get the shih tzu into the position desired by the trainer. The lure is used to get the shih tzu to perform the desired behavior on his or her own and of his or her own free will.

It makes a great deal of sense to get the shih tzu to perform the desired behavior without any physical intervention on the part of the handler. Getting the shih tzu to perform a behavior without being touched is important.

After the shih tzu has performed the desired behavior, it is given a reward, also called a positive reinforcement. Treats are often used as reinforcers, but praise, such as "good dog" or a pat on the head, can also be effective rewards.

Making a shih tzu that has been reward trained a reliable shih tzu is important, especially when the shih tzu has an important job, like therapy shih tzu. For that reason it is important to get the shih tzu accustomed to working around distractions, and to properly socialize the animal to both people and other animals.

Many shih tzu trainers make the mistake of only training the shih tzu inside the house or back yard, and only when the handler is there. In order to become a reliably trained companion, the shih tzu must be taken outside the confines of its safety zone and introduced to novel situations.

It is also important to teach the shih tzu to pay attention to the handler at all times. Having the attention of the shih tzu means having control of the shih tzu. Reward training is very effective at getting the respect and the attention of the shih tzu when used properly.

Connie Limon is a professional shih tzu breeder in the Midwestern state of Indiana. She publishes a FREE weekly newsletter. A professional newsletter with a focus upon health and wellness for you and your pets. Discounts on shih tzu puppies are offered to subscribers. Sign up at: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com

Anthropomorphism

Writen by Tyler Brown

Anthropomorphism. Do you know what it means? Give up? Ok, I'll tell you. Anthropomorphism is the attribution of human characteristics to inanimate objects or animals. What does it have to do with dog training? A lot. And for some people it is a major hindering force in their progress in training their dogs.

Too many times dog owners believe that their dogs are people. They believe that their dogs have the same feelings they do, process information the same way, and generally see the world through the same eyes. It is not true.

If you are going to effectively train your dog you must understand who he is. Or in this case, who he is not. And he definitely is not a human.

The best way, hands down, to housetrain a dog is through the use of a crate or kennel. By using this method you can ensure that when you aren't able to supervise your dog that he is safe and sound and not getting in trouble while in his crate. But what have I heard a hundred times? "How would you like it if you had to spend time in a kennel?"

My answer is always the same. "I would hate it! I would hate to spend time in a crate. I would also hate to eat dog kibble. I would hate to walk on a leash. I would hate to be covered in fur in the summer time. There are a thousand things I would hate about being a dog." Here is the catch folks, just because you would hate it doesn't mean that your dog would. My Rottweiler, Rocco, loves his crate. If I ever can't find him that is the first place I look. I properly conditioned him to his crate so now he views his crate much like a dog in the wild would view a den. Is it cruel to put him somewhere where he would voluntarily go on his own? I have asked many nay-sayers of the crate method how they feel about wild animal dens. Should we go around caving them in because they are cruel and unusual?

The anthropomorphism of dogs isn't limited to crates. This style of thinking has also invaded many other correct dog training principles such as training collars, the use of corrections in training, the need to establish dominance, feeding schedules, and much, much more.

At this stage it is important to note one thing. If you want to treat your dog like a person in many respects this is fine. If you want to dress your poodle in a pink dress or invite your lab to sleep in your bed, or feed your German Shepherd some vanilla ice cream go right ahead (talk to your vet first, though). But if you are letting tried and true dog training techniques go by the wayside because of anthropomorphism, you must re-think your training methods. I promise you, you'll thank me.

Author Tyler Brown is a renowned dog trainer whose training adventures and clients have taken him to 18 states and 5 countries to teach others how to properly train their dogs. Go to dogbehavioronline.com for more dog training articles, advice, tips, and answers from a professional dog trainer.

Keeping Your Poodle Safe From Hot Weather

Writen by Sandy Riordan

Living in the South with all the hot weather in the summer can be an extremely dangerous time for your Poodle. Dogs don't handle the heat as well as humans do. We're able to stay outside quite a long time enjoying the heat and soaking up the sun. Our way of cooling down is to sweat. Dogs cool themselves by panting, which is often inadequate and can place them in a life-threatening situation if they become overheated.

Dogs can develop heatstroke quite quickly. Just going on your normal walk or letting your dog play in the yard is enough to get your Poodle overheated. The best time for walking your Poodle or for playtime during hot weather is in the early morning or evening.

Never leave you Poodle in the car unattended during hot weather. It doesn't take long for it to turn into an oven, even if you leave the windows open a little. If my husband and I are in the car with the dogs and we need to go to the store, one of us stays in the car with the air conditioner on with the dogs.

If your Poodle's hair is long, it is more susceptible to overheating. If your dog is overweight, has heart disease, is old, or a young puppy, they can get heatstroke easier as well. If you're not showing your Poodle, having it clipped in a nice short summer clip will make it feel more comfortable during hot weather.

Try to stay off hot pavement during hot weather. It can burn your dog's feet as well as raise its body temperature faster. Check the temperature of the pavement with your hand. If it's too hot for your hand, it's too hot for your Poodle! Try to walk in the shade or on the grass.

If your Poodle is kept outside during the day, make sure it has plenty of shade. Our kennel has a roof and shade cloth all around it. It is also situated under shade trees. Make sure your Poodle is provided with lots of clean drinking water. Our kennel has an automatic water dish. If you're traveling with your dog, bring plenty of water along.

Some Poodles like to play in water. You may want to get one of those plastic wading pools for it to play in. My Poodle Bob, likes to bite at the water coming out of the sprinklers! Make sure they are supervised before doing either of these activities.

Recognizing Heat Stroke

Be alert to your Poodle's body temperature during hot weather. A dog's normal temperature is around 101 degrees, much over that can cause problems and is an emergency! If it gets up to 108 degrees, the internal organs start breaking down and can cause permanent long-term damage or death!

If your dog starts breathing rapidly, has a rapid heartbeat, dry mouth, nose and gums that turn dull grey or red, these are signs of heatstroke. You need to cool your Poodle down immediately, by putting him in a tub of cool water or cooling him off with the hose, then get to the vet fast! Your Poodle can still be in danger even if he looks OK on the outside.

By following the advice above, you and your Poodles can have a fun and safe summer season!

Sandy Riordan

Creator of the website: Standard Poodles USA

Everything you need and want to know about Standard Poodles

http://www.standardpoodlesusa.com

Where Does Your Cat Nap Make Him As Comfortable As Possible

Writen by Niall Kennedy

Giving your pet his own snoozing area gives you the ability to take back all of the space in your house that he has taken over. You may even want to give him several places to call his own to keep him happy!

You'll find a cat bed that fits your tastes, and your pets, because there are so many out there to choose from. You'll find a colorful cat bed in fun pet prints that will add a touch of whimsy to the room you put it in. You'll find designer brands to choose from as well. You can also choose based on how the bed feels too.

Many cat beds have a pillows made of fleece to keep them warm. They are 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 him one of these heated beds to warm up with.

Have you purchased a great bed for your cat but he's ignoring it? Don't be surprised at this. If he just doesn't seem interested, add a catnip toy to the bed to attract him to it. Make sure that you place it in a cat friendly location too which will help to make it appealing to him. 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. He needs to be able to relax and sleep there or he won't want to be there.

Does your cat shed? Place the nap mat where your cat normally sleeps and then store it 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 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 him a bed is the ideal way to make him comfortable and provide him with a place other than your furniture to nap on!

Niall Kennedy is a lifelong pet lover and has worked in several pet sanctuaries. Best Pet Health Information is a resource that brings you information and news, tips and reviews to help you find the perfect cat bed to keep your cat happy. http://www.Best-Pet-Health.info

Copyright Best-Pet-Health.info All rights reserved. This article may be reprinted in full so long as the resource box and the live links are included intact.

What You Should Know About Your Dog And Frustration

Writen by Amy Howells

Because your dog lives with humans, he's going to have to learn to deal with frustration sometimes, because you shouldn't let things always go his way if you're to be a responsible dog owner.

Dogs that are strong-willed and confident are more likely to become frustrated when they can't have something, especially if to them they are the dominant one, and not their owner.

To cure this bad behavior, you're going to have to set up some situations in which your dog becomes frustrated. You must then wait for him to go through his frustration and eventually calm down. Once he's calmed down, he's allowed to get whatever it is he wanted.

You need to remember while you're doing this, that you can't react in anyway while he's frustrated.

Here's an example of the whole process:

Offer your dog something he wants, often a food reward of a favorite toy will do the trick, and keep it just out of his reach. If he pulls on his leash, or barks, just ignore the behavior.

If it's your attention he wants, ignore him. Do not speak or touch him until he stops his behavior. Many dog owners find that their dog's behavior will become bad before it becomes better while doing this exercise, but stick with it.

You must wait for him to calm down before you let him get what he wants, otherwise the whole exercise will be reinforcing the incorrect behavior – which isn't what you want.

Once you've given your dog what he wants, he will begin to associate his calm behavior with what he wants. Eventually his bad behavior will seep away. It's going to take a few goes to become permanent, so you need to do this exercise a few times a day.

Amy Howells is an expert dog trainer who owns a website dedicated to teaching everyday people the short-cuts to dog training.

You can also sign up to her free e-course and discover the astonishing short-cut secrets to dog obedience training.

How To Keep Your Cat Healthy Your Guide To Cat Diseases And Conditions And How To Cure Them

Writen by Niall Kennedy

Even with the best care, cats can become ill. Sometimes this means a simple "kitty cold," at other times the disease might have a more lasting or even fatal result. The following are some of the more common causes of serious illness in cats.

An upper respiratory infection (URI) is the medical term for what many cat lovers call a "kitty cold." Indeed, the symptoms match those of a human cold, sneezing and discharge from the nose. While they seem similar, the human and cat version of this infection are different, and one species cannot be infected by the other. However, URI is highly contagious among cats. If you have a multi-cat household and notice URI symptoms, isolate the cat immediately.

The best treatment for URI is time and loving care. Use a warm, moist cloth to keep your cat's eyes and nose free of discharge. You might need to warm her food to enhance the smell to encourage your cat to eat.

URI symptoms, which include a decreased appetite, can last anywhere from a few days to several weeks. Watch your cat carefully; not eating or drinking can lead to dehydration. Also, if your cat becomes extremely lethargic, it may mean the URI has turned into something more serious.

The symptoms of URI may last a few days to several weeks. Cats with URI may also be lethargic and have a decreased appetite. Monitor the cat carefully; a growing lack of appetite and fever can lead to dehydration. Not eating can lead to liver problems. Lethargy can mean a minor URI has become a more serious problem, such as pneumonia. If you notice this occurring, or if the discharge becomes very thick and yellowish-green, contact your veterinarian. Severe URIs may need to be treated with antibiotics.

Chlamydia is a type of bacteria that has many variations. Usually, each variant is species specific; feline Chlamydia is not transmitted to humans. In cats, the bacteria usually infects the eye, causing conjunctivitis. Chlamydia can be treated with antibiotics.

Symptoms of Feline Chlamydia

* Anorexia (loss of appetite; may occur as the disease progresses)

* Coughing

* Difficulty breathing

* Fever (may occur as the disease progresses)

* Pneumonia (in young kittens 2 to 4 weeks old, which could be fatal)

* Runny nose (rhinitis)

* Sneezing

* Watery eyes due to conjunctivitis (either one or both eyes)

Panleukopenia is a condition in which a cat's white blood cell count drops dramatically. Since white blood cells are vital to the cat's defense against disease, this condition leaves cats vulnerable to deadly infections. The virus is transmitted via body secretions. Feces are particularly common transmitters. It can be carried in water or on shoes.

Panleukopenia is often referred to as a number of different terms, such as

* Panleukopenia (often shortened to "Panleuk" in verbal discussion)

* FPV (Feline Panleukopenia Virus OR Feline Parvo Virus)

* FP (Feline Panleukopenia)

* Feline Distemper

* Feline Infectious Enteritis

* Feline Infectious Gastroenteritis

* Feline Agranulocytosis

* Cat Plague

* Cat fever

* Show fever

* Psuedomembranous Enteritis

* Maladie du jeune chat

* Feline Typhus

* Feline Tyfoid

* Colibacillosis

* Agranulocytosis

Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) causes a variety of diseases, one of which is leukemia, or cancer of the white blood cells. Infected cats often appear healthy in the early stages of the disease. The illness may take months or years to cause death. For a long time, FeLV was the most fatal disease among cats. Today, although vaccinations are available to protect cats from this disease, it continues to be a leading cause of death, as there is no treatment.

FeLV is usually transmitted through cat fighting with each other. Because large quantities of the FeLV are shed in puncture wounds and cat saliva associated with fighting result in the injection of PeLV into other cats. Other less frequent routes of viral spread include sharing food and water bowls, cats grooming each other, and transmission from mother to kittens before birth.

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The Billy Aristocratic French Hound

Writen by Michael Russell

The Billy is a French hound that is believed to have been the product of careful line breeding in the 19th century between the three ancient breeds of French hounds which are now extinct, the Larye, Ceris and Montembeufs. He is unique in that these breeds of which he is the descendant were true French Hounds and there is no Foxhound blood in the mixture. The other breeds which bear the stamp of the ancient extinct French hounds include the Poitevin and the Grand Bleu de Gascogne. His creator, M.G. Hublot du Revault wished to produce a packhound that would run deer exclusively. The resulting hound, the Billy, is a packhound but not of the type which will pursue the fox, for he on the taller side (23-26 inches at the shoulder) with a lean appearance and quite swift and has the instinctive desire to give chase to the deer. The breed bears the name of the Castle Billy, the domicile of his creator, in Poitou.

The Billy is an elegant and naturally quick hound, built for speed and with a more delicate look to his body than that of the Foxhound. He was nearly extinct after the World Wars but a pack was revived with the few remaining Billies and the addition of the Poitevin Hound and Harrier blood to keep the gene pool strong. The resulting breed continues with the original name but is still quite rare even in France and is seldom seen on the International dog show circuit. The Billy is a member of the Gundog Group of the F.C.I.

The color of the Billy is a lovely pale lemon yellow with some mottling of deep orange. He carries a short dense coat. He is aristocratic in appearance, not at all coarse. The nose is long and the muzzle is not as deep as the Foxhound. Although he has the typical hound drop ears, they are set higher on his head so he does not have the droopy or mournful expression so often associated with hound breeds. The temperament of the Billy is that of the packhound, always eager to give chase. He is said to have a light and melodious trumpeting quality to his baying which will change in tone and nature according to the proximity and size of the game he is after.

The Billy standard requires a height of 23-26 inches and a weight of 55-60 pounds. From this description one can assume that the dog is not a heavyweight in appearance. He is rather a dog which should appear elegant in stature. Like many hounds of the pack type, this dog is content to be an outdoor dog. He is not a breed which is kept as a pet but is rather housed as a pack dog and is quite happy to be in a kennel situation.

Michael Russell

Your Independent guide to Dogs

No Eyes To See

Writen by Ena Clewes

I had a cat for many years who became my faithful companion. Unfortunately, he passed away after 18 years, and I was devastated.

I vowed that I would never have another cat, as I did not want to go through the emptiness that his loss created.

One day my friend came to call, she raises Himalayan cats, and after we got chatting she mentioned that she was trying to find a home for a one year old male. I was surprised, as she never has problems selling her kittens and I asked why this one was still with her.

She then proceeded to tell me that he was blind, had been since birth, but she couldn't have him put down. Now, this was meant to get my sympathy, which of course it did! I heard myself say "Well I could come and see him?" only to find that he was in her car! Oh, how well she knew me!

When I saw this little bundle of white fur, with the most beautiful blue eyes I had ever seen in a cat, I was hooked! When I picked him up and held him, he was mine.

I have so much admiration for this little creature who lives in the dark. I watch him as he wanders around the floor, testing with his long whiskers as to how far he is from objects, putting out his paw to feel if he is safe to go further. Despite his handicap, he bravely goes about his day,letting nothing hinder him in his inate curiosity, as in all cats.

He has given me a new outlook on life, if at first you don't succeed, try and try again. There have been many days when I have been feeling sorry for myself, life has been too stressful, or so I tell myself, and I just want to pull up the bedcovers and hide, and then I see my little white furry friend, trying so hard to have a life, and not give in to his blindness. He has been an inspiration to me, his determination, his courage and his perseverance, are beyond words.

Animals do have a lot to teach us, although we are not always willing to learn. I watch the cats in my barn, wild though they may be, they are devoted to each other, older siblings taking care of new kittens, mother cat watching constantly over her brood, standing back when I give them food, to make sure her babies are fed first.

Yes, they can certainly put us to shame, can we claim the same devotion to our siblings and family? In many cases, the answer would be no.

Ena Clewes, articles and short story writer. Visit http://www.pets-1.com.

Can Herbs Improve Your Pets Behaviour

Writen by Rob Lester

The use of herbs and other alternative remedies for the treatment of a wide range of human illnesses has rapidly gained popularity over the past two decades. Herbal remedies are especially popular among patients with chronic diseases such as cancer, arthritis, and gastrointestinal ailments. Also, some herbal treatments appear to be beneficial for treatment of psychiatric symptoms such as depression, anxiety and insomnia. It is logical to think that if an herb or botanical preparation can help a human with a psychiatric disorder, then it might also help a pet with a behavioral problem.

Before going into specifics on what is known about improving animal behavior problems with natural herbal remedies, a word of caution is in order. Clearly, the increasing popularity of alternative remedies is partially due to the fact that some of these products work well. Unfortunately, much of the increased use of alternative therapies is due to hype and propaganda from companies that manufacture and sell such treatments. To separate fact from fiction, it is important to rely on information from objective, reliable sources like the scientific and medical literature rather than from dietary supplement websites and promotional pamphlets.

There seems to be an increasing number of false claims for products labeled "homoeopathic," which really just means that the "active ingredient" is so dilute as to be almost undetectable. There is little or no scientific evidence that these dilute formulations work. Therefore, the comments that follow are limited to herbs known to have beneficial effects when used in doses that are meaningful.

As always, it is a good idea to consult your veterinarian before beginning a new course of treatment for your pet. Following are some indications for use of herbal remedies:
• Barking. Perhaps the best-known herbal remedy for dogs is the use of a lemon or citronella scented aerosol in a collar to control nuisance barking. Although commercial collars of this design are expensive, there is substantial evidence that this can be an effective behavior-modification tool for many dogs.
• Anxiety. Valerian has been tested in humans with some success in the treatment of anxiety and sleeplessness. This herb is available in most health-food stores and in many groceries and pharmacies. Valerian can be useful to control a variety of anxiety-related or fear-induced problems such as restless during car travel, fear of thunder, and anxiety while left alone.
• Forgetfulness & Senility. Another example of an herb that might have a useful role in pet health is Ginkgo. This herb is being tested for the improvement of memory and concentration in people with Alzheimer's disease. Ginkgo may be helpful in dogs with Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome or in older cats with random and excessive vocalization.
• Others. Although most reports of the use of herbs are related to human conditions, there are increasing numbers of practitioners interested in their veterinary applications. For example, small studies are looking at the use of Chamomile to treat irritability in dogs and cats, and Cantharis and Staphisagria to reduce cat spraying.

But, Watch Out! Of course it is important to be cautious in the use of any new treatment, and this caution is especially important in the use of herbs, which are not always reliably packaged and labeled. Just because something is natural does not mean it is safe. Think of the natural poison, arsenic, for example. A very common herb, St. John's wort, can cause sensitivity to sunburn in both people and animals. Several dogs have died from being given excessive doses of an over-the-counter dietary supplement called 5HT (5 hydroxytryptophan – sometimes known as Griffonia seed extract). So, be skeptical of unproven claims, and gather reliable information.

For more medical and health advice from a veterinarian, go to http://www.trainyourdogsncats.com.

Feeding Bettas

Writen by William Berg

Knowing how to feed your betta is fundamental, because doing it wrong can have big consequences for your betta's health. Nothing is more stressful than dealing with a sick fish, right? So, let's do it right, and not have a calamity!

Here are some golden rules for feeding your betta:

First, select the proper foods. Bettas are selective eaters. A betta specific pellet is OK, but live or frozen foods are preferable. The recommended diet includes frozen brine shrimp and frozen bloodworms.

The next rule is to not overfeed your bettas. Carefully dose the meals; because even if the fish eats all you give him, he will produce much more waste when overfed, and the pollution level of the jar he is in will go beyond safe range This problem is smaller if you keep your betta in a larger aquarium. Remember not to leave uneaten food in the aquarium! Once your betta and the rest of the fish are finished eating, you must remove all uneaten left over food. If you do not remove it, it will soon rot and cause havoc in the tank.

Bettas prefer to eat from the upper parts of the water column. They don't really enjoy eating from the bottom of the tank. So before dropping the food in your betta's tank, make sure you have his attention. Let him see the food, get it close to his face from the outside of the aquarium, let him check out what it is, and then there you go! Drop food in front of his nose. The best way is to drop a tiny bit of food - about 6 frozen brine shrimp, watch the betta eat it all and then look at his belly, if it looks the same as it did before you fed, it's ok to give him more, but always watch and make sure to make the second portion smaller than the first.

Your betta should go for the food right away, but if not, watch where the food sinks, and what the betta does. If after 15 minutes he has not eaten the food, remove the food. Never let the water go cloudy. If it is already cloudy then change it, as cloudy water will threaten your betta's health. Normally, small bowls or containers should have water changes at least twice a week. Larger tanks can be changed once a week. And notice if the ammonia and nitrite levels are at high levels, because both are very bad for your betta. Also be wary of harmful bacteria - they can ruin your fish's life, but don't kill off all bacteria in the aquarium since bacteria is essential for a well functioning aquarium.

During the pre-spawning period you can feed a wide variety of foods, including blackworms, grindal worms, fruit flies, brine shrimp, mosquito larvae and frozen bloodworms (all are live except the frozen bloodworms). During this period the adult fish may be fed 4 times per day or more depending on how close the fish are to being placed into the spawning tank.

You can start feeding your betta fry 5 days after the hatching. Feed the fry several times per day, using a variety of foods (infusoria, boiled egg yolk, baby brine shrimp) made up of small particles.

About The Author

Article by William Berg writer for Aquatic Community with more then 20 years of aquarium experience. Find more of Williams articles about Betta fish

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Fish Make The Greatest Pets

Writen by Jennifer Shircel

Aren't the children always begging for a pet or another pet?

You don't want a cat – there's that whole litter box thing. You don't want to train a puppy, plus what about when you want to go away for the night? Birds make such a mess and can be quite noisy. And then there's those "rodent" things.

When we found out we were expecting our first child we decided to decorate the nursery in tropical fish decor. Then we thought a fish tank in the room would be perfect for the "white noise" and for a nice little night light. So we bought a 10 gallon tank set that cost about $40 for everything but the fish. We had no clue about caring for fish, so we only got a few fancy guppies that were about $3 each. How cheap!!

Who knew we'd become addicted? Well, me anyways. We learned that guppies are live bearers, meaning that they have "live" babies instead of laying eggs and they can be all sorts of pretty colors. Needless to say, we learned a few things about raising guppies and haven't spent any more money buying fish (well, except for a few more different colored guppies and a bigger tank to start breeding our own)!

Fish are so easy to take care of and are rather inexpensive to keep. We clean out their tank a little bit each month and spend about $2 on food for them that lasts about 3 months. The kids all love the guppies – their pretty colors and especially watching the babies grow. I love the guppies because they're cheap, relaxing, neat, quiet and they teach the children about responsibility with having a pet.

So before you jump down their throats about not having a pet, tell the kids to consider some guppies. If you're looking to do some more research on them, check out www.guppies.com . There are plenty of tips and people there that are willing to answer all of your questions.

Jennifer is the owner of http://www.MomOnABudget.com, a resource for money saving tips and ideas, quick and easy recipes, how to decorate on a budget, work at home ideas and so much more.

6 Ways To Help “petproof” Your Home

Writen by Felix Senhouse

When you own an indoor dog, its a good idea to pet-proof your house. Like child proofing, pet-proofing consists of making a sweep of each room to which your dog has access and removing anything that poses a potential danger. Some items may be dangerous to one dog while not to another. For example, electrical cords may be dangerous to the dog that enjoys chewing, but for a dog that isn't into sharpening his teeth on household objects, electrical cords may not be a threat. You'll be able to detect additional hazards once you've discovered what activities your dog may enjoy.

1. Watch Out for Small Items - Like children, dogs love to put things in their mouths. If swallowed, the object of their curiosity can become lodged within their digestive tract and cause damage. In some cases, surgery may be the only way to remove the offensive item. To avoid this, keep small items out of reach. Such items may include pens, pencils, rubber bands, coins, paper clips, staples, nails and screws, pieces of string, yarn, thread, or dental floss, earrings and other small jewelry, bells, small balls, sewing needles, pins, and the eyes pets may pull off pet toys.

2. Chocolate and Dogs Don't Mix - Chocolate contains the active ingredient theobromine, which can be toxic to dogs if enough is ingested. It is difficult to estimate how much is required to cause death to a dog because the concentration of theobromine varies with the formulation of the chocolate; for example, milk chocolate will have less theobromine than baker's chocolate. To keep your dog safe, be sure not allow him to eat any chocolate!

3. Watch the Tags - Your dog's ID tag can pose a choking danger to your dog if it gets caught on anything. Keep your dog's tags from getting caught in a heating grate when he lies down by using a Pet Pocket. The Pet Pocket attaches to his collar and lies flat rather than having his tags dangle from a collar.

4. A Shocking Danger - To keep your dog from chewing electrical wires, you must conceal the wires in some way. One way to do this is by buying a plastic decorator shower rod cover and inserting the wires inside the rod cover. Plastic rod covers can be cut to size. Another way to cover electrical wires is by purchasing concealing strips. These strips are specially designed to conceal wires running across floors, across baseboards, and up walls. You can find these concealing strips in hardware or office supply stores. They come in a variety of colors and they can be cut to size. There is also a newer product that has come on the market to protect your dog from wires. It is a "power strip with a brain" that detects insulation aging, damage, and penetration by such things as dogs' teeth. If your dog tries to take a bite out of this type of cord, the cord will shut off and prevent your dog from getting shocked. This can also be found in a hardware store.

5. Blue Water is Bad - If you use an automatic toilet bowl cleaner or "toilet tablets", be sure to put the seat down so that your dog won't be able to drink the water. The blue water can be poisonous to your dog. You can sew a large pom-pom to your toilet seat cover to prevent the lid from staying up in case you forget to lower it.

6. Keep Cleaning Products Out of Reach - Be sure to keep chemical cleaning products out of your dog's reach. If possible, consider substituting nontoxic cleaners such as vinegar and water mixtures or baking soda.

Felix Senhouse is a contributor for http://www.familydogcare.com Family Dog Care is your complete resource for dog related news and information, covering topics that range from dog training to dog nutrition.

Socialize Your New Puppy

Writen by Anbhu Selvan

Bringing a new puppy into the house is forever exciting and fun time. Everyone at home would like to play wit, cuddle and hold the little ball of fur. The last thing on minds of the most new puppy owners is to train the new addition, but is very vital that puppy training and socialization begin as early as possible.

Mingling a new puppy is an important part of any training program, and it is also significant for socialization to begin early. The gap for socialization is very small, and a puppy that is not properly socialized to people, dogs and other animals by the time he or she is four months old never develops the socialization he or she requires to become a good canine citizen.

Learning how to interact with other dogs is something that usually would occur among litter mates. However, since most dogs are removed from their mothers so soon, this litter mate socialization regularly does not finish properly.

The most vital lesson puppies often learn from their litter mates and from the mother dog is how to bite, and how not to bite. Puppies usually roughhouse with each other, and their thick skin protects them from most bites. However, when one puppy bites too hard, the other puppies, or the mother dog, swiftly reprimand him, often by holding him by the scruff of his neck until he submits.

In fact the best way to socialize your loved puppy is to have it play with lots of other puppies. It is also okay for the puppy to play with a few adult dogs, as long as they are friendly and well socialized. Many communities these days have puppy playschool and puppy kindergarten classes. These classes could be a good way to socialize any puppy, and for handler and puppy alike to learn some essential obedience skills.

When socializing puppies, it is best to let them play on their own and work out their own issues when it comes to suitable roughness of play. The only time the owners must step in is if one puppy is hurting another, or if a grave fight breaks out. Other than that the owners must simply stand back and watch their puppies interact.

While this socialization is taking place, the pack hierarchy must quickly become apparent. There would be some puppies that are especially submissive, rolling on their backs and baring their throats at the least provocation. Other puppies in the class would be dominant, ordering the other puppies around and telling them what to do. Watching the puppies play, and formative what type of personality traits your puppy has, would be extremely valuable in determining the best way to proceed with more advanced training.

It is also significant to introduce the puppy to a variety of other animals, particularly in a multiple pet household. Introducing the puppy to friendly cats is imperative, as are introductions to other animals the puppy might encounter, such as rabbits, guinea pigs and the like. If your household contains a more exotic creature, it is essential to introduce the puppy to it as early as possible, but to do it in a way that is secure for both animals.

It is often good to start by introducing the puppy to the smell of the other animal. This could be easily accomplished by placing a piece of the animals bedding, like a towel or bed liner, close to where the puppy sleeps. Once the puppy is familiar to the smell of the other creature, he or she is much more likely to believe the animal as just another member of the family.

Anbhuselvan is an experienced dog care specialist and is also a good writer on the topic. He also gives suggestion on how to make your dog look catchy and colorful without irritating the dog's mood. Various products are designed and are available keeping in mind the dog's comfort and mood. For further information on dog care, dog clothes and accessories, and other dog requirements please visit www.dressypuppy.com and to contact anbhuselvan mail to: anbhuselvan@gmail.com

How Can I Deal With My Shih Tzus Separation Anxiety

Writen by Connie Limon

Crating your dog when you leave him alone might seem easier, but it may not be the best approach to keep him out of trouble. And it may even cause your dog to experience more separation anxiety. Crating was developed as a method of housebreaking. If you will spend a modest amount of time training a puppy, they will have many years of satisfying companionship. Caging is fine if used for only a few hours at a time when you can't be there to supervise. Caging should never become a permanent way of life. Excessive caging can lead to problems. Some of the worst behavior problems seen in dogs were dogs that were crated for long periods of time. Some dogs cannot tolerate any time in a cage at all; they panic and fight to get to get out. It is also true that some dogs really do like their cages and find them a cozy refuge, a den to retire in away from the hustle and bustle of everything else. Caging or crating is an acceptable method of housebreaking if used in moderation.

Dogs who chew wildly and scratch walls are not being spiteful. Dogs don't have the intelligence to be spiteful. Shih Tzu especially want nothing more than to spend time with "people." They are very sociable and are always quite content to be slab dab in the middle of everything "their people" are doing, regardless of what it is. When you are away they sometimes can become anxious and some might even become frantic. So what can you do?

They need help becoming more comfortable when they are alone and they need to learn that you will return after you go out. If possible, devote several consecutive days addressing the problem and plan on more time to reinforce any progress you make. Give your dog attention, but if he decides to walk off and curl up in a corner to sleep, let him be, if he does not follow you when you leave a room, don't encourage him to do so if it is not necessary. You want to teach him to be okay by himself even if it is only in another room.

Start conditioning the dog for your absences. You might exercise the dog so he will be ready for a nap and make sure he has relieved himself. Then, leave him alone in his space. Don't make a big deal about it because you don't want him to think that your leaving him is a big deal. Leave the dog alone for a minute or two while you go elsewhere in the house or into the yard. Do this several times through the first day of conditioning training. If he remains calm, increase the time. Work up to about 10 minutes. If all goes well, do the same the next day. This time, leave and go somewhere else. Take a walk up the street or take a short ride in the car for 5 minutes, then return. When you leave, try to leave him joyously and when you return, try to return with a joyous greeting, so that he associates you leaving and you returning on the same note, something not so bad, but something joyous and that you always return. Work up to 15 minutes, then slowly work up to a couple of hours. Leave and return quietly. You want your dog to learn that leaving and returning is nothing to get tore up about. If you return and the puppy has been destructive do not scold him. he won't know what you are scolding him about and this will only make things worse. His anxiety will increase. If you see destructive behavior, take a step backward, decrease the time you are away and build back up again. If you do not have the time to devote to this conditioning training, then you may have to find a dog sitter to leave your dog with if he is one that becomes anxious or destructive when you are away, at least until you have time to devote to training.

These are just a few tips to help you deal with a shih tzu who truly might have separation anxiety or to prevent separation anxiety from becoming a problem. I hope this helps.

Connie Limon publishes a FREE weekly newsletter. A professional newsletter with a focus upon health and wellness for you and your pets. Coupons for shih tzu puppies and other products are offered to subscribers. Updates of available puppies. Sign up at http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com

The Dangers Of Canine Parasites

Writen by Rose Smith

When you get a puppy, one of the first things that you need to do is make an appointment with the vet to get your new family member his or her vaccinations. Along with any recommended shots, your cuddly canine will probably get a dose of a de-worming formula to rid them of any internal parasites.

Hookworms

Some parasites can be very dangerous to your dog, especially to puppies. For instance, a hookworm (about 1/8" in length) will adhere itself to the small intestine and begin to suck the blood from your pet. It can cause severe anemia, followed by circulatory collapse, severe diarrhea, hemorrhaging, shock and finally death.

Puppies may receive hookworms through the mother's placenta during the gestation period or through the mother's milk when nursing. This is why it is very important that new puppies receive a de-worming formula.

These parasites can also enter an adult dog quite easily when your pet walks over soil that contains any contaminated feces from other animals. In turn, your dog then licks his or her paws and ingests the hookworm larvae. Even without the paw licking the larvae can burrow through the skin and into the dog. Once inside, the larvae migrate to the small intestine where they grow into adult hookworms, usually within 14 days.

A female hookworm will begin to lay eggs... 20,000 of them per day! As you can see, it is vitally important to have your favorite canine de-wormed should they become infested with hookworms. If you see symptoms such as diarrhea, weakness, pale gums, or weight loss, take your canine to the veterinarian immediately for diagnosis and treatment. Diagnosis is usually made through a small stool sample. Treatment consists of an oral or injected medication which kills the adult hookworms, but not the larvae. This treatment needs to be repeated again in 2 to 4 weeks to kill the larvae that have emerged as adults. In cases of severe anemia, your dog may require a blood transfusion.

Roundworms

Roundworms are another common parasite most often found in puppies. The worms are usually heavy-bodied and grow to about 6" in length.

Infection usually occurs as larvae that have lain dormant in an adult female dog are reactivated when the female dog becomes pregnant. The larvae begin to migrate through the placenta to the liver of the fetus. They also will migrate to the mammary glands of the mother, so that the puppies can also become infected while nursing.

The time from roundworm larvae infection to the adult stage is about 27 days. Most roundworms live about 4 months in the puppy and are usually expelled by the natural immune system of the puppy before 6 months of age.

So, if puppies naturally expel these parasites, how do adult dogs end up with them? The adult dog ingests them by eating some food supply that contain the larvae.

Tapeworms

Another very common worm is the tapeworm. This worm lives in the intestines of both dogs and cats. The worm is transmitted by fleas. When a dog or cat has fleas, they will naturally ingest the tapeworm while grooming. The tapeworm then makes its way to the intestine.

There are usually no noticeable symptoms for the most part, although sometimes your dog may show some stomach upsets, diarrhea or just seems somewhat lethargic. You can often tell if your pet has tapeworms by finding small, whitish worm segments that look like small grains of rice under the tail of your pet or on its bedding. Also, you dog may begin "scooting" their rear end along the floor because of irritation. It takes approximately three weeks from the time your dog ingests the flea until you begin to see tapeworm segments.

Although not generally harmful to an animals health, tapeworms are certainly something you'll want to rid your dog of. One of the first treatments for tapeworms is to begin a program of flea control treatment program for your pet and the immediate environment of your house and yard.

Rose Smith is the author and owner of Caring For Canines, a web site that provides information on natural dog health care. Please visit us at: http://www.caringforcanines.com

Pet Identification Tags And The Internet

Writen by T.B. Collins

The greatest fear of most pet owners is that there is a chance the family pet will get lost, and not be returned. But many of these same pet owners fail to take the necessary precautions needed to safeguard their pets. By simply overlooking the importance of the pet identification tag, and how having up-to-date accurate information can greatly increase the chances of a successful pet recovery.

And, with the advent of the internet, and its ability to link nations together, and not to mention its popularity, with millions of registered users online daily. Combining these two resources can greatly increase the chance that a pet will be recovered, if these resources are used correctly.

Combining the internet and the pet identification tag provides many benefits to the pet owner when it comes to ensuring the safety of the family pet. The best use of these resources is provided by a company named RecoveryPets. Com whose website is located at http://www.recoverypets.com, and this is accomplished by using a unique tracking number for each registered pet and that number is inscribed on the pet identification tag. This system allows the pets description and photograph to be placed on the companies website along with the owners contact information.

Each year millions of family pets are lost, and end up at shelters that have no idea who these pets belong to, or how to contact the owners to return the pets. But, something as simple as a pet tag that you only have to register for once, because the contact information can be updated free for the life of the pet, can almost erase this problem and reunite many pets with their families. Additionally, because this is a web based service, anyone with a computer around the world can access the pets information, and return the lost pet to its owners.

Thaddeus Collins is the owner of RecoveryPets.Com and they specialize in the global recovery of lost pets using a unique tracking number. For more information visit http://www.recoverypets.com

Caring For Your Dog

Writen by Michael Colucci

Dogs are social animals that have worked with humans for thousands of years. They have played an important role in various different cultures. Dogs are highly valued for their intelligence and loyalty, and it is important to train and care for them properly.

Despite the importance of dogs, owners may find that there are many challenges in training and caring for them. While many people want to own a dog, few know how to train them properly. A dog which is not disciplined will not bring happiness to its owners. Too many people allow their dogs to develop bad habits

You want to make sure you purchase quality food for your dog, even if its a bit expensive. Cheap dog food won't give your dog the healthy look it should have. You want your dog to have a shiny coat and bright eyes. Dogs are much like their owners, and will behave in many of the same ways.

Dogs are like small children, and should be treated as such. Dogs should not be left alone for long periods of time, as they are prone to getting into trouble. When dogs are left alone at home, they need to have a designated area with boundaries. Leave chew toys and other things that will keep them occupied.

When your dog behaves properly, you should always praise and reward him. This teaches him that good behavior leads to rewards, while bad behavior does not. When you do this, you will find that your dog behaves properly on a regular basis. When your dog doesn't behave properly, you should also discipline him, so that he understands the difference between right and wrong behavior.

There is a difference between discipline and abuse. There are some dog owners that don't understand this, and hit or kick their dogs in order to train them. This is abuse, and is not an effective way to train your dog, and may even cause your dog to attack you. You want your dog to respect you, not fear you.

A good way to discipline your dog without hitting him is to spray water on him and give him a verbal warning. This will get the message across in a non-abusive way. How you train your dog is very important. You want a dog which you can take out for a walk without worrying about him bothering others. You want a dog that will listen to your commands.

Michael Colucci is a technical writer for Free Dog Training and Dog Care

The Briard A Dog Of Great Loyalty

Writen by Michael Russell

The Briard traces its ancestry back to the days of Charlemagne. Known for centuries as a herding dog, it probably also fits into the category of "working dogs" as described in the American Kennel Club, for it also performs well as a guard dog and a selfless protector. In French folklore there are legends which tell of the dog's heroism and courageous acts of protection in the face of danger. The Briard was also used extensively during both World Wars as a messenger dog.

The Briard was admitted into the French Kennel Club in 1909, although the dog was first entered into French Expositions as early as 1863. The breed did not appear in Great Britain until 1960 and was not admitted into the American Kennel Club until 1975. It has gradually gained a group of admirers.

The Briard has a majestic appearance, standing tall between 23 and 27 inches at the shoulder. His coat is long and double in nature, requiring regular brushing. The coat falls in waves along the sides and covers the entire body, even the fronts of the legs. The ears can be either cropped, in which case they stand erect, or they are folded. In either case the ears are also covered with long hair. Typically the hair falls over the face and the eyes will not be seen. The tail should have a distinctive "crochet hook" at the tip. The coloring is usually a tan or fawn although it may be black or gray. The coat should always be of one color, not bi-colored, although there may be black tips to the hairs in a fawn colored dog there should never be a distinct "pattern" of black. The over all appearance of the dog should be one of strength and the stride should be ground covering, evidence of this will be that the rear should be well angulated and there should be good "layback" of the front shoulders.

The Briard is essentially a healthy dog which has few genetic disorders. There is as usual in larger dogs a tendency for hip dysplasia to be present and the dog should be x-rayed before being used for breeding. Also Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is present in some instances so this should also be tested.

This is not a breed for everyone, for it is an extremely loyal dog who shows affection only for its owner, a true "one-man" or "one-family" " dog who will be suspicious of strangers and will protect his owners with his life if necessary. He is not and should not be aggressive without provocation, it is simply that this is a breed that does not care to show any notice of anyone besides his own immediate family. He is generally a happy dog, never roaming far from home. This is a breed that will put his mind and body to any task that is asked of him, although he is known as an independent thinker, he is also extremely devoted to his owner and will not sway from his devotion.

Michael Russell

Your Independent guide to Dogs

What Are Dog Grooming Tools

Writen by Armughan Riaz

Why do you prefer to go to professional dog groomers and pay high fees for your dog grooming. You can even groom your dog at home , yes really You can do much of the grooming yourself at home and save money at the same time.

This article will let you know all necessary tools that you need for your dog grooming at home.

Dog grooming Hair scissors

Thinning scissors

Dog clippers

Dog/cat toe nail clippers

Dog Nose scissors

Dental scaler

Dog hair pulling forceps

Dog Tweezers

Brush and Comb

Dog grooming scissors:
Most important tools for dog grooming. Dog grooming scissors are usually long blade scissors having 7, 7.5, 8, 8.5" sizes. Scissors are both straight as well as curved. Common size is 8.5". Available in mirror polished, satin and titanium coated finish. These days titanium coated shears are very common because these are not only beautiful, but these shears have long lasting sharpness. Curved shears let you cut corners - literally. They are real time-savers. And, considering that most scissoring is supposed to achieve round or curved surfaces, it seems only natural to use curved shears on dogs ranging from Bichons to Bouviers. Gain experience with these shears by rounding off feet, topknots and tails. Experiment with them in reverse to create angulation above the hock joint. You might even use them to create the arch on some Terriers' eyebrows. Many groomers who have had difficulty shaping round and curved edges seem to have more success when they are using curved shears. Now come to Filipino shears ,these scissors have wider blade than other grooming scissors. These are excellent for cutting bulk hairs. These scissors feature superb smoothness and sharpness.

Thinning scissors:
If your dog has very thick coat of hairs we recommend you to use thinning scissors. Thinning scissors are choice of groomers in hot weather because thinning scissors thin out the heavy coats of hairs giving dogs a cool feel. Thinning shears, in various lengths and styles, constitute "the shears of the '90s" - and they are a necessary part of any groomer's collection. Thinning shears with a 28-teeth blade (or finer) are excellent for finish work and blending. They give coats a soft-edged appearance and produce Schnauzer and Terrier furnishings that look natural. Used to thin over scissored Lhasas and similar breeds with silky, flowing coats, these shears blend in and remove blunt ends. Thinning shears give breeds such as Scotties and Westies a hand-stripped look. They also give trimmed ears and bangs a natural, smooth appearance. They even thin out heavy coats and help to prevent matting in breeds such as Cockers, Afghans, etc,

Nose scissors:
Yes nose is also very important to be cleaned while grooming your dog. Use good pair of nose scissors to remove longer hairs from nose of dogs. These scissors has blunt end , so they won't disturb your dogs. Don't use pointed scissors for removing nose hairs.

Brush and Comb
You need to brush and comb away the dead hairs before bathing your pet as water creates tight matts in the loose hairs. Pets with long coat require brushing almost daily, depending on the condition of its coat. If you exercise your dog in the garden, it is likely to get tangles in its hair. You need to comb out its tangles immediately after exercise to avoid the tangles becoming mats. Brush your pet from top to bottom. Use the right brush for your pet's coat. Get advice from the pet shop if you,re unsure.

Dog clippers
purchase a set of professional dog clippers. Hair clippers for humans will not stand up to the rigors of dog grooming and should not be used. A good set of clippers can cost up to $200.00. Although the initial expense is large, the clippers will pay for themselves quickly. Make sure the animal is completely dry before using the clippers. If you wish to give your dogs specialty cuts like a poodle or a cocker cut, you should follow the directions that come with the clippers. You can also get books that have diagrams on giving special cuts. The clippers come with attachments that cut hair to the desired length for whatever effect you are trying to achieve.

Dog toe nail clippers
Dog nail clippers have 3 shapes. Guillontoin style used for removing and trimming toe nails of medium size and larger breeds. Scissors style clipper is usually used for cat nails. Plier style dog nail clippers are used to trim nails of smaller dogs. Plier style is more common among professional groomers. Care should be exercised with the toe nail clippers as if you cut the nails too short you will nick the vein that runs part way down the nail.

Dog hair pulling forceps and tweezers:
Hair pullers are fundamental tools for good grooming. Allow groomers to remove excess hair from the ear canal and reduce the risk of infections. Also used for removing ticks from pet hairs. Forceps come in curved and straight blades, having locked and unlocked handles. Forceps with polyethylene dipping handles are more commonly used these days because of firm grip and easy working.

Dental scaler
Yes dogs have also plaque problems. You can use Dental scaler, for removing plaque and cleaning teeth of pets.If you are unable to see plaque, then can use dental mirror as well.

You can touch up the grooming every two or three weeks. That way, the general grooming will not be as time consuming as it could be. Depending on how quickly your dog's hair grows, you will need to groom him every month and a half to two months, or more frequently.

Groom your pet well and enjoy its good looks and companionship !

To see complete range of Dog grooming products, visit http://www.venusworldwide.com

Armughan Riaz, working as Partner at Venus Worldwide, http://www.venusworldwide.com. Manufacturer and exporters of beauty tools, manicure implements, barber scissors, skin care tools and grooming products

The Irish Terrier A Daredevil Dog

Writen by Michael Russell

The Irish Terrier is a "classic" terrier in every sense of the word. He is believed to be one of the oldest of the Irish Terrier breeds, however there is scarce documentation of this. It is known that when dogs were first shown in Ireland in 1870 there were several terriers of this strain but there were many other colors besides the red that we know of today. It was not until later that the outstanding red color was favored above all else, to the extent that other colors such as brindle and black and tan were eliminated from the bloodlines.

The Irish Terrier is courageous and plucky and has a reputation for being fearless and quite intelligent. During World War I this breed was often used as a messenger dog. The dog has achieved the nickname of "Daredevil" for good reasons, as it is a dog that does not give up when confronted. One of the early descriptions of the breed describes him as "the poor man's sentinel, the farmer's friend and the gentleman's favorite".

The Irish Terrier always is a beautiful deep red color with no other markings. This color is accentuated by the harshness of each individual hair and the color is enhanced by "stripping" the coat rather than shaving any part of it. Exhibitors in the Conformation Rings take great care to strip the coat regularly but "pet people" often do shave the coat rather than deal with the time consuming job of hand stripping. The Irish Terrier is a racy lean terrier, appearing somewhat long of leg, with fold over ears and a square jaw appearance that is enhanced by the beard and mustache. The tail is customarily docked. The coat should be hard and wiry with a softer undercoat. The males are around 19 inches at the shoulder and the females should be about 18 inches. The Irish Terrier has well balanced movement and should not be high stepping or choppy in its gait. He is a popular dog in the Conformation ring, although not considered to be as "flashy" as the Fox Terrier or the Kerry Blue. Despite this reputation, in 1994 an Irish Terrier took the Best In Show at the premier terrier show of the world, the Montgomery County Kennel Club Terrier Show.

The Irish Terrier is definitely an individual. He knows that he is the best and will not be unwilling to prove it if confronted by any other dog. When challenged, he will fight to the death. It is essential that his owner be aware of this, he has a very strong terrier instinct and although it is not "aggression" in the usual sense of the word, he is not the sort of dog that automatically gets along with any other dog. However, one must realize that this is a characteristic which is completely in harmony after all with what a "terrier" is. Otherwise, this breed has no equal as far as being a guardian and companion to his family, with children he is especially affectionate and steadfast in his loyalty and protection. Furthermore, he can and does serve his owners well when it comes to being the rat catcher and general rodent killer on the farm and in the house.

Michael Russell Your Independent guide to Dogs

Yorkshire Terrier Breeders

Writen by Elizabeth Morgan

The Yorkshire terrier is a very popular breed of toy dog. While some people prefer large dogs for the sense of security, other prefer small dogs for companionship and just plain fun. The Yorkshire terrier, popularly known as a Yorkie, is said to be among the most intelligent and playful of dogs. They love to learn new tricks. The breed originally hailed from Yorkshire, which is how they got their name. Due to the Yorkie?s popularity, the number of Yorkshire terrier breeders has also increased.

There are many breeders who do this work just for the love of money, and a few who do it to enhance the charm and beauty of this dog. The Internet is the best place to find a good breeder. Never hesitate in asking various questions of a breeder, like the number of litters per year, what kind of problems do Yorkies generally face, and how should they be housed. This gives you the clear picture of the Yorkshire terrier breeder's knowledge level and his ability to take proper care of the dogs. Breeding Yorkshire terriers is not an easy task, as it involves years of hard work and experience.

It has been also noticed that Yorkshire terrier breeders recommend various books to terrier owners, so that they can take care of their dogs when the breeder is not there. This eases the task of the breeders, and Yorkies can live a long and healthy life. So if you have a Yorkie and want to breed it, find a reputable Yorkshire terrier breeder.

Yorkshire Terriers provides detailed information on Miniature Yorkshire Terriers, Yorkshire Terrier Adoption, Yorkshire Terrier Breeders, Yorkshire Terrier Breeding and more. Yorkshire Terriers is affiliated with Miniature Dachshunds.

Breeders Beware

Writen by Chris Suckow

Some breeders are unscrupulous in their practice, but by asking the right questions you can find a quality breeder.

Now that you have decided that you want a dog or puppy, you should then decide on what specific breed you want. Be sure to pick a breed that fits with your finances, time, and energy to care for it. Some breeds are a lot more expensive to care for because they are more susceptible to certain genetic diseases. Once you have decided on a breed now it is time to find a quality breeder.

Like any business there are those breeders who take pride in their work and genuinely care for the dogs. Then there are others who just want to make money with no regard to providing a quality dog to their customers.

So how do you find a quality breeder?

Before you contact actual breeders you should do some research? Getting a list of breeders that provide the breed of dog you want can often be obtained from kennel clubs. You should be able to locate a kennel club in your area by the telephone or on the internet.

Referrals from friend or family who have worked with breeders before are often the best and most honest source. Also going to dog parks and talking to dog owners will help as well. Dog shows are another good place to find referrals and even talk to prospective breeders.

When you visit the actual breeding facility walk around and make note of how the animals are cared for and how sanitary the kennel is. Also note how the dogs are behaving. Are they friendly, timid, or aggressive.

Good questions to ask:

What vaccinations and deworming are given to the dogs?
Do the dogs come with pedigree papers?
Can I call some former customers?
How long have they been breeding dogs?
Do the dogs come with vaccination papers?

Good breeders should offer advice on feeding, grooming, health care and equipment you may need as well as a schedule for all necessary immunizations.

One of the best signs of a quality breeder is that they want to know that you are a suitable owner for one of their dogs. They might ask if you have ever had a dog before. Also if you have a house suitable for the dog, and also what veterinarian you will be taking the dog to.

A few signs of a bad breeder include:

He doesn't want to let you see the facility
He doesn't have papers on the puppy's parents
There are no veterinary records
They appear to have many mixed breed dogs around.

With some knowledge and research you can find a quality dog and avoid getting ripped off by scrupulous breeders.

Find out what additional steps you can take to help your puppy at http://www.free-online-veterinarian-advice.com

You can submit a question to the veterinarian by clicking here http://www.free-online-veterinarian-advice.com/askavet.html

Chris Suckow, DVM, currently lives and works in Los Angeles.

What To Do In Case You Loose Your Pet

Writen by Kadence Buchanan

According to the most recent Synovate pet survey (Sept. 2005), conducted in nine markets across the globe, the UK and the US were shown to be the two absolute leaders in pet ownership. But the world-wide annual statistics on missing pets are shocking. Over 10 million pets go missing every year and millions never make it back home. This short rescue guide was compiled in order to minimize the chances of you ever having to file a missing pet report and to provide to all US pet-lovers a comprehensive list of the things one should know and do before and after his/her independent companion decides to migrate and explore the unknown. Just read carefully the tips that follow keeping in mind that you should not get discouraged or panic if your pet disappears. By following our advice and keeping yourself organized and prepared at all times, the chances are that you will be reunited with your lost friend again soon.

Plan ahead: Create an emergency action list and keep it handy in house or car. Check frequently your pet's neck to ensure that the collar is in place and that its rabies tag and pet license tag are there; apart from pet's ID your current phone number should appear. If your pet carries a microchip or a tattoo have that number with you all the time (in your wallet). Make sure you have recent reliable photos of your pet. Create a pet file on your PC with pet web directories and have all the local pet authorities' telephone numbers also in print. Keep an updated map of your area with your emergency pet kit. Frequently check your locks, doors, windows and fence for possible escape passages. Do not trust strangers and never leave your pet unattended outside stores or inside vehicles. Register your pet to the available services of your area; you will save precious time if your pet becomes lost.

Your pet is missing: Check everywhere you can and do it quickly! Ask friends, neighbors and local pet authorities to assist you in your search. Create and distribute flyers including your pet's pictures and your phone number and never state the exact amount if you decide to offer a reward or your real name and house address. Scan your neighborhood and give a copy of the missing pet's flyer to everyone you meet, asking them to call you in case they see or hear anything. Have a real live person or if that is impossible a telephone recording machine answering the phone. Check all the clinics of your area frequently and visit the local shelters in person everyday. Befriend the employees and request their assistance. Inform the local veterinarian offices and the police. Provide all the details they need, but leave a few of your pet's characteristics out. These will later help you identify whether the person claiming to have found your pet has actually your companion in his/her possession. Never visit by yourself someone that called and reported to have your pet. Take a friend with you or arrange to meet in a public place or the police department. Contact the local media and create a publicity fuss. Publicize your pet's disappearance via the internet and local newspapers. Check the 'found pet' section of your local newspapers daily. Most importantly, do not give up hope. Keep looking and good luck!

Your pet is back: Once reunited with your pet, of extreme importance is for you to discover what circumstances allowed it to escape and perform any necessary changes to prevent a similar incident from happening again. Do not forget to call your neighbors, friends, local veterinarian clinics and shelters, to inform them that your pet is back. Of course, always remember to keep a collar and a current identification tag on your pet at all times, even when they are in your house. Your pet's ID is actually its ticket home.

Kadence Buchanan writes articles on many topics including Family, Gardening, and Society

Portable Dog Kennels

Writen by Jason Gluckman

Traveling does not have to cause too much inconvenience for pet owners. With a portable kennel, dogs can be brought anywhere without having to put them on leash. You would not have to worry about leaving your dog inside the car or finding a good place to tie the dog up.

Traveling in a Kennel

Kennels are not just used to allow your dogs to move about and have their exercise in a confined, safe space. You can carry your dogs to sporting events or pet shows in kennels. Big dogs can be put in larger portable kennels you can put at the back of your pick up truck and he will be safe there for the trip.

Choosing a Portable Kennel

A kennel must always be comfortable for your pets. The size of the kennel is an essential consideration. Big dogs like Labradors and German Shepherds need more space than smaller dogs. Kennels must be tall enough to allow them to stand and wide enough to provide room for them to lay or sit in.

If you are bringing your dog for a plane ride, the kennel must be in the right size acceptable to airline guidelines. The unit must be as lightweight as possible; otherwise, you will pay more for the extra pounds.

There are several commercially-available kennels for you to choose from. You may even find units that come with screens to block the sun from the top.

Kennels can also be set up easily and deconstructed as fast. There are many different types, such as a "screw in" variety, that are convenient for dog owners who would want to give their dogs bigger spaces to wait in before a big pet event or show but would not wan to lug around enormous pre-constructed kennels.

Kennel fences can be put up in 30 minutes with a pair of pliers and screwdrivers. They usually have steel frames that the wire mesh walls are fastened to. The parts may be portable but when assembled, they form a sturdy and strong kennel that can handle even the most hyper-active dogs.

Dog Kennels provides detailed information on Dog Kennels, Dog Kennel Plans, How To Build A Dog Kennel, Portable Dog Kennels and more. Dog Kennels is affiliated with Dog Agility Training.