Relocating pets

Most pet owners treat Fido or Fluffy like another member of the family, with birthday parties and stockings full of rawhide hanging on the mantel during the holidays. These pet owners come from the school of thought that a pet is not just a pet—he or she is a beloved member of the family, an integral part of the home, and a loyal best friend.

At some point, relocation counsellors likely will be faced with the task of overseeing the move of this trusty companion. It is not always just a matter of handing off the transferee to a pet relocation company that specialises in the international door-to-door transfer of pets.

Many times, the relocation counsellor is the one responsible for having the initial conversation about the pet move with the transferee. Having a general knowledge of how the process works and answers to common questions will ease concerns about the pet’s upcoming move, and can facilitate a smooth transition from the relocation counsellor to the pet relocation company.

How does pet relocation work?
Pet relocation companies boast the ability to serve the entire world. The practice itself is fairly straightforward: pets typically are picked up at the transferee’s residence, checked in at the departure airport, cleared through customs on arrival, and delivered to their owner’s new residence. Pet relocation specialists also usually are responsible for selecting appropriate flight arrangements, carefully reviewing the import and export documents, and counselling the transferee on the intricate details of the pet’s move.

Some pet relocation services arrange door-to-door moves by opening offices at major hubs or franchising their businesses in various parts of the world. However, a pet is not always travelling to and from the main ports of entry—sometimes it is necessary to facilitate customs clearances or deliveries in more obscure cities and countries.

Most reputable pet relocation companies are members of the Independent Pet and Animal Transportation Association (IPATA). The association regulates and monitors the pet transportation industry by setting ethics standards and overseeing the performance of its members. As part of their membership, companies are given access to a network of pet transportation professionals worldwide that have guaranteed reputations for the services they provide.

“IPATA is crucial to upholding quality service for pet relocations,” said current IPATA President Gay O’Brien. “If a company wants to ensure its transferee’s clients are receiving the highest level of care, with careful attention paid to the well-being of the pets, IPATA’s listing of member companies is the best place to start.”IPATA is comprised of pet transportation professionals—local pet taxis and veterinarians, major corporations, freight forwarders, and customs brokers. Because of IPATA’s exacting standards for membership, affiliates are able to safely coordinate the door-to-door service for the most precious of cargo. As a way of bridging the gap often found in a global industry, IPATA also offers an annual conference where the members gather to meet and exchange ideas, attend classes on country import requirements and species-specific handling techniques, and attend forums where representatives from major airlines come to answer questions in a round-table format.

International requirements vary from country to country, so working with a quality pet-relocation company which is up-to-date on the current import requirements is critical.

These intricacies often can affect the overall cost, and many people tend to underestimate the rates surrounding a complete door-to-door relocation for a pet. The cost of the pet move consists of the ground transportation to and from the airports, the documentation and import fees, and the air freight charges for the pets. When pets travel as cargo, the airlines generally charge for the dimensional weight of the travel crate, which sometimes can mean that the cost of a one-way international flight for a pet travelling overseas costs the same amount as a first-class, round-trip ticket for his or her owner.

Important questions to ask

The general transportation procedure may be understood by the transferee, but there often are concerns regarding the care and safety of his or her beloved pet(s), rather than the “nuts and bolts” of the logistics.

At-risk Breeds
Following are breeds of pets that are susceptible to heat stroke and breathing problems when exposed to stress or extreme heat—a condition that puts them at risk for travel—because of hereditary respiratory problems.

Dogs
• Boston Terrier
• English Bulldog
• French Bulldog
• Boxer
• Dutch Pug
• Pekinese
• Brussels Griffin
• Bull Terrier
• English Toy Spaniel
• Shih Tzu
• Lhasa Apso
• Japanese Chin
• Japanese Pug

Cats
• Himalayan
• Persian

“Most important is how our clients feel about [their pets’ moves],” said Rick Olson, regional operations manager of Crown Relocations, Los Angeles, CA. “It is a foreign process to them loaded with emotion and concern.”

These sentiments and anxieties can lead to a multitude of questions for the relocation professional.

Why use an expert?
Many myths surround pet safety and air travel, which perpetuates anxieties that a transferee inevitably has when they first start contemplating a pet move. Most of the horror stories that circulate about pets flying are a direct result from pet owners attempting to fly their pets without assistance. Anyone who has ever tried to highlight their hair using an at-home kit or build a deck after picking up some two-by-fours at the local hardware store knows that some processes—while not impossible to do on one’s own—often are better left to professionals. It helps to remind the transferee that they will be in experienced hands—for professional pet relocation companies, their duty is to ensure that every pet arrives safely and without incident.

The risk of extreme temperatures affecting the pet’s safety is one of the other common concerns among pet owners—many airlines even will embargo pets during the winter and summer months. However, most reputable pet relocation companies work with airlines that have programmes in place to keep pets in climate-controlled environments for the duration of the flight. The pet never is exposed to inclement weather, and this allows companies to relocate pets all over the world year-round.

‘Crate-train’ pets before the flight
Dogs escaping from or getting hurt while in their crates is an example of why pet relocation companies emphasise to clients that they crate-train their pet before the day of the flight. Some relocation companies even can arrange professional crate-training classes. It is important to contact the pet relocation company as soon as a potential transferee mentions he or she might be relocating a pet, as the more time he or she can spend getting accustomed to his or her new crate, the more relaxed he or she will be on the day of the flight.

There are three different ways a pet can travel on an airplane: with the owner in the passenger cabin, as accompanied (or excess) luggage in the cargo hold, or as manifest cargo (typically without the owner). Most owners initially want to take their pets in the cabin, but unfortunately because of airline restrictions on weight and size limits, as well as various government restrictions for international imports, rarely does a pet qualify to fly in the cabin. However, as long as care is taken in choosing the correct airline, the cargo hold where the pet will travel always is pressurised and climate-controlled. This means a transferee’s pet will travel in comfort even when apart from its owner.

Which airline?
While direct flights always are ideal, direct routing is not the best way to make a decision as to the airline on which the pet should fly. “Pet-friendly” airlines such as Continental, Northwest, and KLM created cargo programmes designed to care for four-legged travellers.
Tips for transporting snub-nosed breeds

• Use a larger travel crate than normally is required (four to six inches clearance on all sides).

• Use a travel crate with ventilation on four sides.

• Get the pet used to the travel crate by working on crate-training the pet before its departure.

• Provide plenty of water for the animal before, during, and after the flight.

“We have spent time and resources developing a service and product that caters to pets, with their best interests in mind, as well as those of their owners,” said Digna Faber, international sales manager—Variation Live (North America) of KLM Cargo’s Variation Live department, Los Angeles, CA. “We only work with specialised agents who make the arrangements that include booking with KLM, coordination of health documentation, and communication to the shipper and consignee, again, in the best interests of the pet and owner alike. No matter if it is for import, export, or transit, all pets go through KLM Cargo’s Animal Hotel in Amsterdam, KLM’s primary hub. The Animal Hotel offers care and attention by specialised and trained staff, and even on-site veterinary services, if required, 24-7.”

Like KLM Cargo, other pet-friendly airlines have kennel facilities at their main hubs, where during the connection the pet can be checked on, fed, and given water. Other airlines are not adequately set up to take care of a pet in the event that there is a delay or emergency.

Despite all of this careful attention, there still are some pets that most pet relocation companies consider to be “at-risk” when travelling. Older, infirm dogs and cats can travel, as there is no age limit, but it always is best for the transferee to seriously consider the amount of stress an elderly pet can endure. High-anxiety pets also pose a risk for hyperventilation and injury to themselves if they are not properly crate trained and conditioned ahead of time. Snub-nosed dogs, such as pugs and English bulldogs, are at an elevated risk for travelling because of their delicate respiratory systems, which can become impaired under high-stress situations. The length of travel and the pet’s individual personality can contribute to the amount of risk. Ultimately, it is left to the pet owner’s discretion to make an informed decision whether to fly with their pet after consulting with their pet relocation specialist and veterinarian.

Navigating the diversity of import requirements
For transferees making international moves, the idea of sending their pets to new countries becomes even more daunting and worrisome. At first blush, the variety of import requirements and quarantine restrictions can be overwhelming. Each country has its own set of individual import and export requirements, and it is important that the pet relocation professional have a familiarity with shipping to and from the transferee’s destination. International relocations for pets, just like their human counterparts, require months of advance planning and careful attention to paperwork details. The most common misconception among pet owners concerns quarantine facilities and their attendant level of care.

Countries with unavoidable quarantine periods, such as Singapore and Australia, have created very comfortable, clean areas for pets to stay, not unlike modern boarding facilities found in the United States. Singa¬pore’s quarantine facility has visiting hours when owners can take their pets outside to designated pens for exercise. The one caveat with these facilities is that they often fill up months in advance, so it is crucial for a transferee to be connected with the pet relocation specialist early on to secure quarantine booking ahead of time.

Other countries, such as the United Kingdom and Japan, have mandatory six-month quarantines; however, this usually can be avoided by doing what is known as “home quarantine.” A pet must receive a series of rabies shots, followed by a blood test, and then wait out the requisite amount of time in the origin country prior to travelling. This also requires ample advance planning and careful attention to the order in which the inoculations must be given.

Certain countries have restrictions on the types of animals that can be imported and exported. For example, many countries have banned American Pit Bull Terriers outright because of their aggressive reputations. Switzerland does not allow animals with docked ears and tails into the country without proof that the owner of the pet is moving to Switzerland, such as a visa or residency permit. In September 2007, Indonesia banned all animals coming from anywhere in the United States (with the exception of Hawaii).

Import and export policies become increasingly thorny when dealing with exotic pets or animals, such as wild birds protected by international trade laws. It is crucial that exotic animals be properly exported, because if the owner ever needs to move his or her pet again, he or she will need to show past documentation demonstrating that the animal was legally brought into the country. All of these delicate matters make up the stepping stones of an international pet relocation and are why it often takes several months to prepare all of the necessary documentation.

Home at last
After all of the stressors of moving, a transferee is at his or her happiest when the pet safely arrives at the new location. Through careful planning and open communication between the transferee and the pet relocation specialist, a corporate relocation professional does not have to be concerned with the intricacies of a pet move. From Albany to Amsterdam, pet owners around the world will agree that their house is not a home until their best friend is resting beside them.

Caring For Your Dwarf Hamster

There are numerous varieties of dwarf hamsters. There is the Chinese Dwarf Hamster, the White Winter Russian Dwarf Hamster and the Campbell's Dwarf Hamster, just to name a few. Dwarf-like in stature, hence their names, they also need as much nurturing as the larger hamster species, like the Syrian Hamster.

Dwarf hamsters are characterized by their small size and dainty frames. Like little children, they are extremely high-strung and can slip from your fingers in the blink of an eye. You will have trouble locating them if they do escape so make sure that they are well contained.
The natural habitat of the hamster is a self-made underground shaft but tamed hamsters are usually housed in the plastic version of these shafts--the tubular habitats--that are sold in pet stores. Take note though that you should get the ones made for little mice and not the ones made for hamsters as the latter are too large for Dwarf hamsters. Wire cages and aquariums with a ten to twenty gallon capacity are also good options.

These sprightly creatures will find a running wheel useful. Statistics show that hamsters will run for five miles on this. To ensure your dwarf hamster's comfort and safety, purchase a wheel in accordance to the dwarf hamster's size.

Line your pet's cage with a soot-free and porous substrate and your pet will thank you for it. These creatures instinctively like to dig out tunnels for themselves, so this will really make them feel more at home. Fresh substrate every week is a must for these creatures.

Alternatives to the substrate made from wood shavings are paper-based materials such as paper towels, cotton and the like. Hamsters like having their own nest so they can have their solitude. Think of the nest as their bedroom and the cage as their home.

Your pets will love eating a variety of hamster food and like stocking up on them as well. Despite that, keep giving them fresh supplies of food and water even if they do not finish the ones from the previous meal. Because of their tendency to move around a lot they eat a lot too.

Just like teething babies, hamsters' teeth keep growing and thus the need to chew on almost everything, which is damaging to their teeth. Satisfy their urge by providing soft wooden chew toys instead of plastic ones.

Just as important as providing fresh substrate every week is giving your hamsters a clean environment. Thus, their cages and accessories must be cleaned with soap and water every week. Do not use harsh chemical solutions as they will harm your hamsters. Dry the cage and accessories thoroughly so that you can replace it with fresh substrate. All these little efforts are just a small price to pay in return for having the company of the perfect pets.

How Tracking Collars Work

Dog tracking collars are used by hunters who use their dogs to track game, mostly birds. They can be used on all gun dogs and are mostly used on pointers as they normally cover the most ground when it comes to hunting. There are several different types of dog tracking collars available. The two most commonly used today are those that emit signals through radio frequency and GPS tracking collars that emit signals from satellite transmissions.

There are two parts to all tracking collar systems - the receiver and the transmitter. The transmitter is affixed to your dog’s collar. Most receivers today are a collar with a small antenna. This is very light weight and are just as comfortable as a regular collar on your dog. The antenna will transmit the signal to your receiver when your dog is hunting.

Radio frequency dog tracking systems work by sending signals to the receiver through radio frequencies. You normally have to adjust the receiver as it can tune on an many channels. Radio frequencies can be transmitted around buildings and trees, but they do get weaker when confronted with these obstacles. When you are hunting, you are most likely to run into trees, ravines and other areas where the signal will get weaker.

As your dog moves, you will be able to track him by getting signals from the receiver. The signals will get stronger as you get close to your dog. If you have a GPS dog tracking system, it will tell you the exact distance of your dog. Traditional radio frequency dog tracking systems will not be able to tell you the distance but offer more of a range and distance than their GPS counterparts. Most radio frequency tracking systems have lights that blink to let you know when you are getting close to your dog so that you do not have to use a beeping sound, which can scare away birds and confuse your dog.

It is a good idea to be very familiar with using a dog tracking system before you actually take your dog out and go hunting. Hunters who are not familiar with this type of system may have a difficult time using them to track their dogs. It is a good idea to practice tracking the transmitter before you actually put it on the dog. You can do this by putting the transmitter somewhere that you can track it using the receiver before you use the system to track your dog.

When your dog is out hunting for birds and game, he is doing his job. You have to let him out of your sight so that he can go about his business. But that being said, you do not want to lose your dog. And this can happen if you are hunting in dense woods or even large open spaces. When you use a dog tracking system, you will not only be able to locate your dog when he has retrieved or flushed game and birds, but you will be better equipped to find him if he gets lost.

How To Give Your Dog A Health Check

Giving your dog a health check at home, at regular intervals, can alert you to potential health problems. Your dog can’t tell you when he is ill or in pain except through his appearance or behavior. Pay close attention to changes in his body or behavior and get veterinary care when it is necessary to keep your beloved companion happy and healthy.

Schedule your dog’s health check during his regular grooming sessions. Start grooming your dog regularly, if you aren’t! These sessions can familiarize you with your dog’s normal physical condition so you can catch problems early

Skin and Coat

All dogs shed, some more than others, but should not have excessive hair loss with the exception of seasonal shedding periods. Poor health is often apparent in a dog’s coat. Bald patches, reddened skin, scabs, flakiness and other poor skin conditions can indicate health problems or allergies. Dogs can be allergic to many of the same things as humans are, but they react to allergens through changes in their skin, not usually with respiratory symptoms.

While you are bathing or brushing your dog, run your fingers through his fur opposite the direction of its growth. Part the fur and check for ticks, signs of flea infestations or skin problems. Some dogs are more sensitive to fleas (actually, the fleas’ saliva) than other dogs, and just one flea may cause a sensitive dog to become extremely itchy. Excessive scratching can create secondary bacterial skin infections, misery for your dog, and big vet bills for you.

Ears

Once you’ve examined the coat, begin your health check of your dog at its head, and work your way back. Using a penlight, look into your dog’s ear canals. The lining should be a healthy pink color. Redness, crustiness, scabs and swelling may indicate an ear infection from excess earwax buildup or a foreign body (usually plant matter) in the ear canal. Ear mites will create a black, waxy coating in the ear, which can be treated with veterinary OTC medicines.

Never use a cotton swab or other object to reach inside your dog’s ears, or you risk popping an eardrum. Excess ear wax may be cleaned out by putting a teaspoon of slightly warmed light olive oil in the ear and massaging the ear canal. Let the dog remove the oil and dissolved wax himself by shaking it out (but move your dog to an appropriate spot first!).

Dogs who roam in fields and woods often get bits of foxtail in their ears. It’s best to let your veterinarian remove these barbed foxtails from the ears so you don’t accidentally do further damage.

Eyes

Your dog’s eyes should be clear and bright, without cloudiness, mucous, or ulcers on the surface of the cornea. Some dog breeds have a tendency to have “runny” eyes, but the discharge should not be excessive. Squinty eyes may mean that your dog is in pain. Consult your veterinarian if you notice any changes in the condition of your dog’s eyes.

Nose

A healthy dog’s nose will be cool, moist, and free from crustiness. However, some dogs normally have warm, dry noses. Know what is normal for your dog.

Teeth and gums

Excessive “doggie breath” is not normal and can indicate that your dog is having dental problems, or even kidney or digestive disorders. Check your dog’s teeth by gently pulling his gums back from his teeth. The gums should be a healthy pink color. Press against your dog’s gums with your finger. The spot should blanche and then return to its normal pink color in a healthy dog.

Your dog’s teeth should be white and free from sticky, yellow plaque and black tartar. Dogs don’t get cavities often, but are susceptible to gum disease and tooth loss when plaque and tartar are allowed to build up and create infection. A severe periodontal infection may even threaten your dog’s life. If your dog isn’t trained to have his teeth brushed, break him in gradually by just rubbing doggy toothpaste (human toothpaste isn’t dog-safe) along his gums with your finger. The upper back teeth are the most prone to plaque buildup, so if he only lets you brush his back teeth at first, you’re doing well to concentrate on that area of his mouth.

Feet and Legs

Rub your hands down each of your dog’s legs and feet, checking for lumps, cuts, swelling, or signs of pain. Check between the toes of your dog’s paws for burrs, foxtails, and other bits of plants, especially if your dog is allowed to roam in fields and woods.

General Body Condition

Rub your hands down your dog’s sides, front to back. You should be able to feel, but not see, his ribs through his coat. If you can’t feel his ribs, he may be overweight; if you can see his ribs, he may be ill or underweight. However, some dogs are naturally thin and are healthy even though their ribs show. Weigh your dog each time you give him a physical examination, and record it. Sudden weight gain or loss may be a sign that something’s wrong.

Lift the loose skin on your dog’s neck and let it go. If your dog is well-hydrated, the skin will feel soft and pliable and spring back into the dog’s neck. Dehydrated, the skin will feel stiff and take some time returning to its original place. Dehydration may be a temporary condition brought on by over-exercising or hot weather, in which case your dog will benefit from a cool drink of water. Take your dog to the veterinarian for an evaluation if he appears to be continually dehydrated.

Elimination

Check your dog’s anal gland for redness or swelling. Watch your dog eliminate so you’re familiar with his regular habits and what his stools usually look like. Sudden changes may mean that your dog has just eaten something that didn’t agree with him, but if the irregularities persist more than a day or two your dog may have an illness.

Behavior

You know your dog best, and you can tell when he’s just not “acting right.” Your docile companion may become snappish, or your playful, active dog won’t be enticed to romp. Sudden changes in behavior can mean that your dog is in pain or has some other medical condition, or he may just be stressed out. Dogs are just as affected as the rest of the family by major lifestyle changes such as a new baby in the family or moving to a new home. If you can’t attribute your dog’s change in behavior to any such event, take him to the vet for a checkup to rule out physical causes.

First Aid For Dogs

First aid training for dogs is a vital skill for a pet owner. Dog owners are some of the most caring people in the world. Many would come close to a nervous breakdown if harm should come to their dog. Unfortunately, part of the tremendous love owners feel for their dogs involves seriously overestimating the dog's ability to understand the risks around it and avoid injury. Even more troublesome, most dog owners would have no clue what to do if their dog becomes injured.

The first step an owner should take to prepare to provide first aid for their dog is to put together a first aid kit and keep it somewhere handy. Among other items this first aid kit should include day and night contact numbers for the dog's veterinarian, directions to the veterinarian's office and the number for the local poison control center. Locating these numbers quickly in the event of an emergency could save your dog's life.

Other items which should be included in the first aid kit mirror much of the contents of a normal kit for humans such as bandages and gauze of different sizes, scissors, tweezers, cotton balls, cotton swabs, a rectal thermometer, and disposable gloves. For dogs, it helps to have a thick towel handy in case you need a stretcher. You should also include a rehydrator such as Pedialyte and a dense high calorie supplement designed for dogs. Medicines you should have available include diphenhydramine hydrochloride (An allergy medicine safe for use in dogs. You should clear the proper dosage with your veterinarian ahead of time), antibiotic ointment, eye and ear wash, sterile saline, hydrogen peroxide, cortisone spray and activated charcoal. Having the tools you need handy can make the difference between an emergency and a tragedy.

Some of the most common pet injuries involve insect bites - Stings from bees, hornets, yellow jackets or fire ants. Dogs can not tell us how badly a bite may be bothering them so we have to be vigilant when the dog has been anywhere a bite might have occurred. A reaction to a sting normally happens within 20 minutes. Any dog that has a strong reaction to a sting should be monitored closely for the next 24 hours. There is a danger of anaphylactic shock.

If you notice your pet start scratching excessively, or biting at a particular area you should check for an insect sting. You should give the dog first aid as soon as possible. Find the location of the sting and attempt to locate the stinger. Insect stingers often break off and remain attached to the victim. Pulling these stingers out with tweezers often causes more venom to inject into the sting so you should gently scrape with a credit card, driver's license or some similar piece of plastic to dislodge the stinger. A paste of baking soda and water can be applied for quick relief. If that does not work, diphenhydramine may need to be administered in the proper dose.

Another major source of pet injury is chocolate poisoning. Dogs love getting into chocolate, yet a dose as small as 1 oz. of milk chocolate or .1 oz of baker's chocolate per pound of bodyweight could easily be toxic. At the least, lower doses can cause difficulty breathing, irregular heartbeat, vomiting, diarrhea and increased body temperature. If you suspect that your pet has ingested a large quantity of chocolate, you should induce vomiting by administering 2 teaspoons of hydrogen peroxide with a syringe and get the dog to the veterinarian as soon as possible.

These are just a couple of potential dog emergencies in which preparation can make the difference between recovery and death. Knowing the right action to take in case of an injury to your dog can save you a world of unnecessary grief.

So You Want A Macaw A Great Choice

Before you purchase a Macaw there are some considerations needing to be made.

There is this one thing few people consider. If, when you buy your bird you are in your later teens there is, assuming good care every chance your macaw will accompany you into the golden years. The birds can live between 30 and 50 years.

What this means is there is a reasonable chance your bird could bury you. The older a person is when the relationship begins the more likely that becomes.

There is nothing sadder than to see a bird thrust into situations with those who are unknown to the bird especially a well socialized bird that has bonded to one individual totally and completely.

So please as life goes along make sure for your macaw that should anything happen to you that the bird has a loving home to go to. A home with someone very familiar with the bird. Hopefully with someone the bird has a loving bond with.

Macaws can form relationships with more than one person so. If the proper time and socialization is done having someone special to the bird and to whom the bird is very special shouldn't be difficult. The bird will thankyou and I will too.

Some basic in general characteristics for two of the more popular Macaw parrots.

The Blue and gold Macaw:

1. A large bird the Blue and Gold is from the tip of tail to head normally around 33 inches.

2. The blue and gold can be trained to talk but are not good mimickers.

3. Is it a boy or girl. Hard to determine without DNA testing although some say that in the female the head is slimmer.

4. Because they can be very loud the birds do not make good pets for those living in apartment settings.

5. As can any large bird they can deliver a serious bite. As with all birds they are messy.

6. All parrots need training and the larger the bird the more critical proper training is. For best results a young hand fed bird will deliver the best results. They will adapt to your family much easier as a chick.

7. They can talk, they are affectionate, playfull, mischievous if socialized properly. The colorfull beauty is obvious.

The scarlet macaw:

1.The scarlet is thought to be the most colorfully striking of all the Macaws.

2.The scarlet has a very different psychological make up than the blue and gold.

3.They can be a bit nippier than the others mcaws.

4.They do react to faster movements around them.

5.As opposed to other macaws they tend to be a little tighter strung.

6.Scarlets are loving affectionate and very intelligent as is the case of all exotic large parrots. Once again it is often the training and socialization that are the determining factors.

For the bird lover you just cannot go wrong with macaw parrots. They in all cases are intelligent, curious, funloving, playfull, loud, messy and and all are very capable of demonstrating deep affection and love.

The birds are blessed with long lifespans. Their overall intelligence is estimated to be somewhere between that of a 2 and 3 year old human.

So take the following into consideration before you buy!

If you are not ready willing and longing to spend the majority of your life training, playing and caring for and about a totally dependent loud, messy and sometimes destructive 2-3 year old child. Owning a large macaw may not be the right choice for you.

On the other hand if you are ready to accept the responsibility of such an endeavor. The rewards of doing so can not be measured. Doing so can be a very rich life for both the bird and its owner. I wouldn't change a thing.

Crate Training Dogs

Training your dog for the crate is very beneficial for your dog and for you. It's a safe and comfortable space for your dog, actually it is less stressful for your dog. It gives your dog a space of his own so he can relax and give you a little time to relax too, knowing that he is safe and comfortable.

When training your dog, you should never force it, gradually introduce your dog to the crate and let him know it's not punishment or a way to seclude him. It's a place to keep him safe when you are not home, as well a place of his own. It's very beneficial for when your dog has surgery or you need to travel.

Crate training dogs isn't a form of cruelty, even though some people might view it that way. This is a very important step for your dog to learn. When done properly, it provides safety and someplace comfortable for him to retreat to and is a very valuable training tool. Training is most favored when in your dog is young, but isn't necessary.

Crate training dogs can be done in many ways and styles, but the most important thing to remember is to always us positive reinforcement. You can start by introducing your dog to the crate by saying to him "kennel" and let him get into the crate on his own, never push. The goal here is to have him feel comfortable. You can try and put treats in the crate, and placing a soft blanket in the crate also. Speak to him in a happy voice, keep it positive.

When he feels comfortable and gets used to entering the crate on his own, you can put his food dish inside close to the opening, and in time gradually place the dish further in the crate, and eventually you can close the door while he eats. At this time you will be able to have him stay in the crate in short periods of time while you are home, and longer periods of time alone.

Make sure you put him in the crate about 15 to 20 minutes before you leave, and to have him also in the crate when you are home. This will keep him from thinking that by going into the crate, that you are leaving him, which can cause anxiety.

For keeping your dog from feeling isolated at night, you can place his crate in your bedroom or just outside your door. And then when he starts to sleep through the night, and this does not cause anxiety or any problems, you can put the crate in the spot you want. Don't worry if this takes a little time, every dog is different and learn at their own pace.

So using a crate for your dog is a great way to strengthen your relationship and to let your dog feel comfortable and safe. And safe and happy is what is most important.

5 Tips to Effectively Cope With Pet Loss

The death of your companion animal could be one of the most significant losses in your life. This loss will be accompanied by grief and the physical manifestations associated with it such as crying, fatigue, depression, loss of appetite, apathy, sleeplessness or oversleeping, anger, guilt and even anxiety.

It’s important to know that everything you are going through is a natural process. However there are steps, tools, and processes you can take advantage of that will make the grieving process easier.

Here are 5 tips that will help during the grieving process and allow you to move on with your life more quickly and easily.

Acknowledge That You Have the Right to Grieve

All too often the grieving process is complicated by feelings that you are over-reacting to the loss of your pet. After all “it was just an animal” many of your friends and family might say.

These well-wishers may not realized the depth of attachment that you shared with your constant and loyal companion. Realize right now that it was and still is a meaningful, heart-felt relationship and you have every right to deeply miss your companion and grieve.

Form a Support Network

During this vulnerable time surround yourself with people who understand and are empathetic to your situation. There are many support systems and communities available. Your veterinarian may have suggestions as well as your local humane society. Many cities offer local, in-person pet loss support groups. There are on-line forums and communities where you can connect with people in the same situation.

Perform a Ritual

When you feel ready performing a ritual is a way to formally say goodbye to your companion. It also gives you permission to move on with your life. You could have a funeral for you pet even several weeks or months after their passing. Consider performing a candle ceremony with select friends and family. Let your inner creativity shine and design a ritual from your heart. Know that whatever you choose will be perfect.

Take Care of Your Body

The grieving process affects your body. During such times it is important to give your body extra care and attention. Going for walks out in Nature can clear your head and ground you. Exercise can help put you body back in balance.

Consider getting a massage. Massages release toxins and relax you. What else can you do to pamper and take care of yourself during such a trying time?

Learn to Soothe Yourself

Soothing yourself is an important process to learn and implement during times of intense grief. It is a way to feel better and allow yourself to move up the vibrational scale.

Essentially, talk to yourself as you would talk to a hurt child. “I know that I am feeling extremely down today. But that’s OK. I’ll be with what I feel because I know that really soon I’ll feel better. I know that I have lots of options right now. I could go on-line and connect with new friends. Or I could call my grief coach. I know that this intense feeling will soon pass. I also know that my animal companion is with me, right now, in spirit. And if I get quiet I can connect with him. Actually, I can feel my spirits lifting right now. Yes, I do feel better. And I will feel even better if I take a hot bath right now. I am so grateful that I have this afternoon off so I can take the time to pamper myself. I deserve it.”

Play with this new tool often, whenever you feel like you would like a little lift to your spirits. You will be amazed at how effective soothing yourself is.

Take heart that although this is a seemingly impossible time you will soon feel better. There are many resources and people to help you elegantly recover from the loss of your beloved animal companion.

Types of Dog Training Courses

If you have decided to add a new puppy or dog to your household, then you have probably also already gone out and bought everything you need -- such as food, toys, bowls, leashes and a collar -- so that when you bring him (or her) home, everything will already be ready. But, have you also checked in to much needed dog training courses?

The answer to this question is probably "no", as many people do not think about obedience classes as a necessity for bringing home a new dog. Unfortunately, this is the mistake many make which can lead to an unhappy relationship between your new pooch and your family, especially if your four legged friend is quite unmanageable behavior wise. It is for this reason, that dog training courses are essential to the well being and overall happiness of you, your family and your new dog.

There are several different types of dog training courses that you can choose from in order to help you with the discipline of your new dog. Each one has many benefits and they each work in slightly different ways as far as the reinforcement of the trained behavior is concerned. The best way for you to determine which type of course is best for you is by doing a bit of research in to each one in order to understand any pros or cons each may have for you and your dog.

For example, one of the most popular types of dog training courses that people choose is the positive reinforcement/reward method. This type of training allows the dog to receive a combination of reward -- often a suitable doggie treat purchased at the local pet store -- as well as positive praise when they begin mastering the commands you are teaching, such as sit, stay, lay down and heel, to name a few.

Other types of dog training courses include the highly controversial choke collar training in which the owner would snap the leash and apply pressure to the dog's throat when an undesirable behavior is performed. This can seriously injure a dog's neck and trachea so should generally never be used.

There is also head collar training, which is more humane than the choke collar and can be used to steer the dog, gently, towards the desired behavior.

Then there is the click training method -- this method is relatively new and has shown great results; basically, a clicker is used in conjunction with giving a treat when you give a command, as the dog learns the command, the treat is gradually eliminated leaving only the clicker to reinforce his behavior.

Animals & Dreaming

I came across this article recently, and thought I'd share. Got in a 'discussion' with an acquaintance about animals & dreaming- whenever I get the "but what do you EAT?' question, my standard answer is 'stuff that doesn't dream, play, or care for its young, whose production doesn't strip-mine the planet' (I'm about 95% vegan, but every now & then will eat sustainable fish or shellfish... I'll need to tweak my response a little, if I eventually go that last 5% to full veganity, but for now I think that's a nice quick summary!). The dude in question challenged the idea that chickens dream... Which is beside the point, really-- under my stated guidelines, chickens are covered by at least two other criteria!-- but anyway...

For general education of the masses, who fail to see that the differences between us & our animal cousins (in Darwin's words) is "one of degree, and not of kind," I thought I'd forward this along. I don't approve of keeping rats in labs & such, but this non-invasive study at MIT came up with some hard-science documentation of what is plainly obvious to those who pay attention: other animals (especially other mammals, with a central nervous system that closely parallels humans') are more like us than different, with awareness and thought processes very similar to ours. (DUH!)

Here's the link-- there's more out there, but this one of the best articles I've come across for debate purposes, regarding demonstrable animal thought processes.

For the record: All mammals and birds dream, with the specific amount of REM sleep they get determined by species & environment. Generally species that are more mature at birth demonstrate less dreaming, and animals born needing lots of maternal care spend more time in REM sleep (not jsut as babies, but throughout life). Horses and sheep have to lie down to dream, and may experience less dreaming-time in environments where they don't feel safe enough to do so. Most birds don't dream much, but do spend about 5% of their sleep time in a REM state. Only fish and amphibians have not been observed to have REM sleep. Just in case it ever comes up....

There are so many reasons to eat vegan (or at least MOSTLYvegan!) that this may seem minor- but for me it's a good example of why eating pigs & cows & chickens is deeply disturbing... a little too close to cannibalism, thank you very much!

Pet Turtles Need Top Class Care

Turtles date back 215 million years and are among the oldest reptile groups on the planet.

They are also one of the more fascinating pets and popular around the world.

There's a wide variety to choose from with some 300 different species, some of them really weird looking because of their shell formations. Turtles come in various colours and dimensions - from cute pocket size to giant size.

They are cold blooded, breath air, lay their eggs on land and most live in or near water. They live for many years and often outlive their owners. Parents sometimes leave their pet turtles to their children and heirs.

Experts recommend keeping the smaller types of turtles as pets because they are easier to handle.

Professional turtle types stress that learning how to care for a turtle is very important. Proper diet is essential and most turtle illnesses and fatalities are caused by pet owners not knowing this.

Another vital factor is the environment where the turtle is kept and water quality.

Turtles require high quality water at the correct temperatures. Smaller turtles can be kept in aquariums equipped with filter, heater and something on which the turtle can have time out of water.

They also need lots of ultra-violet light to ensure vitamin D3 for shell and bone growth.

Turtles are not ideal pets for children because they don't like being handled and can get stressed. For beginners the hardier types of turtles are recommended.

Macaw Parrots as Pets

Macaw Parrots have different varieties that range from the smallest variety up to the largest variety with sizes of 12 inches to 3 feet respectively. They are renowned to have majestic physical attributes with the addition of great personality.
If you are in the hunt for a good pet, Macaw Parrots may not be the first thing on your mind. But, despite the many rumors that they are not good pets, they can be. Basically, you will need basic knowledge that you can obtain through research regarding their care and nature or characteristics in order for you to understand them. You only have to put up with their attitude and behavior so you can have a great companion in the home.

These birds can live for up to 80 years or even more especially when they are properly taken cared of. They are large that ranges from around 12 inches to more than 3 feet in length. The Green Wing Macaw alone is 36 inches when measured from head to tail and it is only second to the largest variety which is the Hyacinth Macaw.

Understanding Macaw Parrots as Pets

Before you go about looking for the right variety, you need to remember some key points first and perhaps understand the birds more.

1 - Ability to Talk. They are not really considered as great talkers and some of them have capabilities to talk up to 6 words but they are highly trainable for speech and especially excellent in language interaction.

2 - Great Personality. They actually have great personalities although at times they can be very demanding. But, if you can set aside even a little time each day to interact, socialize, train or exercise, you would do well. The only thing you need to remember is to not let out the parrot unsupervised especially when there are kids around. Among the popular birds that could be suitable for you is the Blue Gold Macaw.

3 - Basic Needs. You need to know basic care especially their diet and caging so that you both are in good connection with each other. These parrots are demanding therefore you must meet their needs to keep them satisfied otherwise the bird will only bother you. Also, you need a lot of patience. You may want to give them toys to keep them occupied and provide those perches, ropes and secure them properly. If you want to have Scarlet Macaw for example, you will have to research about its nature.

4 - Aggressive Behavior and Taming. These parrot's personality can sometimes be complex but since they are highly intelligent and trainable creatures, you only need patience and persistence to meet their needs. As long as you can put up with their behavior, these parrots as pets could be excellent.

Heated Dog Beds

There are many benefits for having heated dog beds including providing extra heat on cold nights, comforting whelping puppies, soothing dogs that are recovering from surgery or any type of therapy, or providing comfort for dogs with arthritis.

When the weather turns cold, and your dog spends his or her nights outside in a kennel or dog house, it’s important that they have enough heat to keep them warm. Heated dog beds provide that heat and then some by focusing all of the heat underneath your dog while he or she lays on it. Since many heated dog beds are for both indoor and outdoor settings, they can be used almost anywhere accept where they could get wet. Giving your dog this extra heat is just one way of showing how much you care.

Heated dog beds also help comfort whelping puppies, dogs recovering from surgery, and dogs with arthritis because the heat provides soothing relief to sore muscles and healing wounds. The heat acts as a form of therapy which helps encourage healing and good health for all types of situations that dogs must face.

So how do the dog beds work? It’s really quite simple. Most heated dog beds, like the Lectro Kennel, contain a heating element which can be controlled by a digital temperature control. Most dog beds are capable of heating anywhere from 80 to 100 degrees which is a sufficient amount of heat needed to keep dogs warm and comfortable. The digital temperature control allows you to set the heat level that you want for your dog.

Heated dog beds are great for any cool weather situation, or for any type of therapy that you may want to provide for your dog. Keeping your dog warm and comfortable is a great way to show you care, and is guaranteed to keep your dog happy.

Cat Breeds

Over the last thousands of years, cats have pretty much handled their breeding themselves. In the beginning, they were used for one purpose - hunting and killing rodents. As the years progressed, we began to breed cats more to our liking. Now days, there are several different breeds of cats - which you can tell if you look closely.

These days there are over 70 distinct cat breeds, which are recognized through cat registries. There are several registries that will recognize around 40 breeds or so, as they exclude the more domestic breeds such as tigers. There are also many variations as well, including wild cats that have longer hair.

There are some cat breeds who have roots going back quite a bit in history. Some Japanese breeds, such as the Japanese Bobtail, can be traced back more than 1,000 years in history. These cats were very common and well known throughout Medieval Japan. Now days though, they are all but a myth throughout Japan and the entire world.

The more common cat breeds that are found in North America include the alley cat, long haired cat, and Persian cat. Siamese cats are also common, although they are well known to be destructive and to have a foul temper. Persian cats are very popular, proving to be loving companions. Persian cats can be very expense, depending on where you get it and what type of Persian cat it is.

Alley cats are the most common in North America. There are actually several different breeds, although most of us just refer to them as alley cats. They make good pets, although there are literally thousands of them in existence. Cats are known to breed more than any other pet, and they will continue to breed until they are stopped. Alley cats are among the most bred, as there are hundreds of thousands of cats that are homeless - and have nothing to do but breed.

The look of the cat is the easiest way to tell what breed he or she may be. Some people choose to go by color, although color isn’t as easy to identify. Different breeds of cats have different looks, such as the Siamese and Persian cats. Siamese cats are almost always black, and easy to identify by their color and their eyes. Persian cats on the other hand, are easily identified by their body type and their hair.

Over the years, there has been quite a few breeds come along. Cats were one of the first pets, and easily one of the most popular. Millions of people around the world own cats, with many people preferring a cat over any other pet - including dogs. No matter breed of cat you get - you’re sure to get a pet who make for a great companion for years and years to come.

Why Your Dog Needs Toys

So you're getting ready to bring home a new puppy or dog and you want to make sure you have everything your new pal will need. You have picked out the perfect collar and chosen the right kind of leash. You have a crate and a bed for the pup, and his own special bowls. The only other thing your pooch will need is toys. How do you know what to buy? What is best for puppies? Should you get hard chew toys or soft, squeaky toys? If you've been in the local pet store, you'll know there are tons of things to choose from. This may not seem like a very important decision, but in fact having toys for your puppy or dog is crucial to his health and development.

Toys and chews provide a puppy or dog the ability to enjoy something that is natural for them. Make sure your pup knows which things are his to chew on, or he will go look for something on his own. Toys and bones provide an outlet for a dog to release pent up energy or relieve boredom. Chewing is good for their teeth and jaws, as well as being a good stress reliever.

The types of toys you will need to buy will depend several things. Puppies are teething and as their permanent teeth come in, they will lose the puppy teeth. Toys for a small or medium breed puppy or a small breed dog need to be small enough for the dog to carry around and small enough for them to get their mouth on it. A large breed puppy can be bigger than a small breed full grown. There are toys and chew designed specifically for puppies or small breeds and toys for large breed, powerful chewers.

Another thing to consider is what type of toys will your dog need. Should you buy bones, or balls or rawhide or squeaky toys? Once you decide what is the best size for your puppy or dog, consider how he or she will play with the toys. You should provide a variety of toys. A ball or a tug toy is great for playing with your dog. An appropriate size bone is good for your dog to keep himself occupied. Most dog experts recommend some type of puzzle toy where the pup has to figure out and work the toy to get a treat stashed inside. Many puppies, and even older dogs like to have a soft, stuffed animal toy. It becomes a comforting toy and they will not chew it or tear it up. My 3 Dobermans and probably other large breeds, like to tear apart anything like that, so we have no stuffed toys in my house!

Always keep an eye on your pup and his toys. Be aware if they are broken or torn in pieces and throw them out as needed, to prevent him or her from swallowing something that could obstruct the esophogus or intestines. Rawhides and certain other chews can cause problems for some puppies and dogs so always ask your veterinarian for his advice and recommendation.

Natural Remedies for Dogs

A lot of dog owners are uncomfortable using prescription drugs to treat their pet's ailments, especially when it comes to skin or coat issues. The reason for this is mainly because the owner prefers something more natural and less chemical.

Holistic vets are very popular for the same reasons. They usually try other homeopathic, or natural, herbal remedies before moving on to the prescription medications only when the chosen alternative fails. Side effects are another consideration in choosing natural remedies.

Natural dog shampoos and conditioners contain the same ingredients that natural humam shampoos and conditioners do. The same hold true for skin care. natural products are primarily herbal, containing such things as oatmeal. chamomile, lavender oil, aloe vera, olive oil, and grape seed extracts. The often contain Echinacea and natural forms of Vitamins C, D and E. These natural products are usually far superior to traditional over the counter products and medications in that they leave the skin and coat soft and supple. They also rinse easily, leaving no soapy residue which can dry the skin and cause itching or even allergic reactions.

Many of the natural remedies also cause a natural calming or soothing effect, not only for hot spots for example, but for the general overall effect it has on relieving stress or anxiety the dog feels during bath or treatment. They are also very popular in stress reducing aromatherapies and come in spras, topical creams and ointments as well as shampoos cleansers and conditioners.

You can even find flea, tick. dewormers and heartworm remedies in natural forms. These treatments are safe for puppies as well as adult dogs. One thing to remember when using these products in their natural form is that it is on a continual basis, as opposed to the more traditional remedies that are only used every two to three months. The more natural approach is gentler and easier on a dog's digestive tract.

A very popular herbal remedy for high strung or over stressed dogs is the Bach flower. While not all emotional or stress issues are completely controlled by the flower, it is a very safe remedy and there is no concern about accidental overdose or injury. The easiest and most commonly used form of the Bach flower is liquid.

There are herbal remedies for ear infections, especially in those dogs with long droopy ears where chronic ear infections are a fact of life. For some dogs, the treatment may span a few months, but even the most troublesome are eventually cleared.

Natural Remedies for Dogs

A lot of dog owners are uncomfortable using prescription drugs to treat their pet's ailments, especially when it comes to skin or coat issues. The reason for this is mainly because the owner prefers something more natural and less chemical.

Holistic vets are very popular for the same reasons. They usually try other homeopathic, or natural, herbal remedies before moving on to the prescription medications only when the chosen alternative fails. Side effects are another consideration in choosing natural remedies.

Natural dog shampoos and conditioners contain the same ingredients that natural humam shampoos and conditioners do. The same hold true for skin care. natural products are primarily herbal, containing such things as oatmeal. chamomile, lavender oil, aloe vera, olive oil, and grape seed extracts. The often contain Echinacea and natural forms of Vitamins C, D and E. These natural products are usually far superior to traditional over the counter products and medications in that they leave the skin and coat soft and supple. They also rinse easily, leaving no soapy residue which can dry the skin and cause itching or even allergic reactions.

Many of the natural remedies also cause a natural calming or soothing effect, not only for hot spots for example, but for the general overall effect it has on relieving stress or anxiety the dog feels during bath or treatment. They are also very popular in stress reducing aromatherapies and come in spras, topical creams and ointments as well as shampoos cleansers and conditioners.

You can even find flea, tick. dewormers and heartworm remedies in natural forms. These treatments are safe for puppies as well as adult dogs. One thing to remember when using these products in their natural form is that it is on a continual basis, as opposed to the more traditional remedies that are only used every two to three months. The more natural approach is gentler and easier on a dog's digestive tract.

A very popular herbal remedy for high strung or over stressed dogs is the Bach flower. While not all emotional or stress issues are completely controlled by the flower, it is a very safe remedy and there is no concern about accidental overdose or injury. The easiest and most commonly used form of the Bach flower is liquid.

There are herbal remedies for ear infections, especially in those dogs with long droopy ears where chronic ear infections are a fact of life. For some dogs, the treatment may span a few months, but even the most troublesome are eventually cleared.

How to Choose a Horse Rug

There are many different types of horse rugs, with various characteristics and functions. Therefore, the first step to choosing a horse rug is to decide which type you require for your horse. To assist you in this decision, following is a list of the main types of rugs and an explanation of their function:

- Fly Rug. The purpose of this is to protect the horse from flies that bite or sting. They are more commonly and accurately referred to as 'fly sheets' rather than 'fly rugs', as they are typically a thin plastic sheet or mesh, rather than a fabric rug. One can also get 'fly masks', which are made out of the same material and are intended to protect the head (especially the eyes and ears) from flies. As they are a thin sheet they provide little warmth or insulation, although some can provide protection from wind and rain.

- Turnout rugs. These are intended to provide insulation (warmth), to protect horses when they are outside. The amount of warmth depends largely on the amount of insulation, which is typically measured in terms of weight rather than thickness. Consequently, rugs with a moderate amount of insulation are referred to as Lightweight Turnout Rugs, while those intended for maximum warmth are known as Heavy Turnout Rugs. Some turnout rugs are resistant or impervious to rain.

- Coolers. Although they may look like some turnout rugs, their purpose is quite different. They are intended to help the horse dry by 'wicking' moisture away from its coat, and at the same time protecting the horse from cooling while wet (a wet horse can quickly become chilled if it is exposed to cold and/or wind while it has a wet coat). They are typically used after exercise, when the weather is cool or windy, and removed once the horse has dried off. These are also known as 'sweat rugs'.

- Rain sheets. These are typically a thin sheet, with little or no insulation. It is intended to keep the horse dry and can also provide protection from the wind.

- Stable rugs. Also known as 'stable blankets', these are similar to turnout rugs in that they provide warming insulation, but are intended to be used when the horse is stabled rather than when it is outside.

- Saddle rugs. A saddle rug (also known as a 'saddle pad') is placed under the saddle. It provides cushioning between the saddle and the horse, which protects the horse from the relatively hard saddle and at the same time protects the saddle from being rubbed down by the horse. As the horse tends to sweat under the saddle rug, due to the combination of exercise and the warming insulation provided by the saddle rug, some have built in 'wicking' materials to help remove the sweat from the coat.

- Show rugs. A show rug is placed between the saddle and the saddle rug. It is a relatively thin but colourful rug whose main function is look attractive. As it has little or no other practical purpose, it is typically used only during exhibitions or competitions.

- Summer rugs. More commonly known as 'summer sheets', these are thin sheets intended to keep dirt off of the horse's coat (e.g. if it rolls or lies down).

- New Zealand rugs. A turnout rug which is made of waxed canvas. It provides limited warmth but protects well from wind and rain (provided that it is re-waxed as required) and is relatively resistant to damage due to the strong canvas material.

- Riding rugs. These provide protection from the weather but are designed to be worn by the horse when it is being ridden.

Of these various types of horse rugs, perhaps the most commonly used is the turnout rug. The most important factor when choosing this type of rug is to select a rug of the appropriate warmth. Keep in mind that a horse which is too hot can be as uncomfortable as one which is too cold. Furthermore, a rug will discourage the growth of the coat and if too warm will actually result in the horse shedding its coat. Consequently, it is important both that the rug is heavy enough to provide necessary warmth but as the same time is not too warm. The warmth which an individual horse requires will depend on various factors:

- Weather. On a cold winter day, one will need a warmer (heavier) turnout rug than on a cool autumn or spring day. If there is wind, additional protection is required due to the wind chill factor. Likewise, if there is heavy rain, the insulation provided by the horse's coat and by the rug are both reduced, unless they have a rain resistant cover.

- Health and Age. Horses which are young, strong and healthy have less requirement for a warming rug than ones which are not. On a cold day, it may make sense to put a heavy turnout rug on a sick or old horse, when a younger horse in the same field may be fine with a light turnout rug or no rug at all.

- Thickness of coat. A horse with a thick coat will have less need for a rug than one which has a fine coat, or which has been clipped.

- Exhibiting. A horse with a thick coat generally does not look as attractive (in the eyes of most people) as one which has a thinner coat. Consequently, horses being exhibited usually have a rug which is warm enough to discourage growth of their winter coat. Such coats are relatively heavy for the horse's circumstances, as they need to replace the insulation provided by the natural winter coat rather than merely supplement it. Likewise, summer sheets and show rugs are for the needs of the exhibitor rather than the horse.

- Number of rugs. The above factors will determine the number of rugs required. For example, a young and healthy horse in a mild climate may not require a rug at all and may be happier without one. In a colder climate, a healthy horse may need only a light rug to be used during the coldest days. An elderly or sick horse may need multiple rugs, depending on the situation (e.g. uninsulated waterproof coat for summer rain, lightweight turnout rug for autumn or spring, and a heavy turnout rug for winter).

Once one has decided on the type of rug plus (in the case of warming rugs) the required weight, one can then look at the materials, quality and features which you may require. Some common items and features to consider are:

- Antibacterial. Some rugs are treated to be antibacterial.

- Breathable. Breathable rugs allow sweat to evaporate and air to access the coat, features which make the rug more comfortable and healthier.

- Coverage. Rugs generally cover the body. Some also have neck covers, either as part of the rug or an a detachable extra.

- Friction points. Rugs can rub, especially if worn by active horses or when the horse is working. The main points affected are typically around the shoulders and chest. To prevent this, some rugs have anti-friction fabric at these points to allow the rug to easily slide and move without rubbing the coat.

- Hooks, loops, buckles, straps and attachments. These should be strong, easily opened and closed, and firmly attached.

-Insulation. The amount of insulation is typically expressed in grams per square meter. For example, a '300g' rug has 300 grams of insulation per square meter of rug. The actual rug will weigh more than this, as this is only the weight of the insulation itself and does not include the weight of fabric, straps or buckles. In general, the heavier the weight, the warmer the rug. However, this is not a precise measurement as there are different types of insulation, which vary in terms of quality and effectiveness.

- Rain. A rug may be unsuitable for rain, or be rain resistant, or rain proof.

- Tear Resistant or Rip Stop. Rugs may use fabrics or weaves which are resistant to tearing, and in the event of a tear resist the tear becoming larger.

- Washing. Machine washable rugs are more convenient.

- Wicking. Remove sweat and moisture from the coat.

Once you have decided on the above, your requirements should be well defined in terms of type of rug, amount of warmth required and the various features which you would like. At this point, it is mainly down to quality and price. As in most things, you get what you pay for, so the better quality rugs are correspondingly more expensive. If your budget is limited, or you will only use the rug infrequently, then an inexpensive rug may be appropriate. However, if your horse will be using the rug frequently, it is usually worth investing in a better quality rug which will last. In addition, if your horse is active or frequently rolls, it is important to choose a sturdy rug which can resist this use.

Guide to Your Cat’s Grooming

Your cat are already spent so much time for their grooming, but it will be more rewarding if you will help them do the grooming to make them look even better. Through good grooming you are giving your cat the chance to reduce shedding, increased opportunity for bonding, and as the owner, you can easily detect any physical problems like fleas, ticks, or tumors. However, what are needed for your cat’s grooming?

Moistened wipes are an important thing that your cat grooming kit must have. This will not only keep your cat clean between baths, but also, it is perfect for cleaning and wiping off mud on your cat paws on a rainy day.

A perfect brush is also another important thing you must have for your cat’s grooming. A good brush will keep your cat’s fur from matting and it will reduce excess shedding as well. Just like the human hair, your cat’s coat will be shinier with frequent brushing.

Using a glooming glove is also recommended when you give your cat a good and relaxing massage or when you are in the mood of removing your cat’s loose hair. Using a glove will protect you and your cat from possible harm.

An eye and ear wash is also another important thing your cat grooming kit must contain. For your cat’s eye and ear care, you can consult your vet for the best eye and ear wash for your pet cat.

A nail cutter or nail trimmer is great to your cat’s claws even and healthy at all times. Nail trimming is a very important part of your cat’s grooming.

If the nail cutter or trimmer is important, then you must also keep a styptic powder on hand at all time. This powder will serve as a first-aid product that will immediately stops bleeding when trimming your cat’s nail.

A shampoo and conditioner is important to keep your cat’s fur shiny. Choose the right shampoo that suits best for your pet’s coat. Choosing a shampoo and conditioner in one is a great choice. Also, keep in mind to choose a shampoo that does not sting to your cat’s sensitive eyes.

Make sure that you also have an odor remover for your litter box.

Having a cat treat in your grooming kit is a great idea to keep your cat’s teeth healthy, as it removes plaque and prevents odor.

Keep your cat free from intestinal tract by preventing them from digesting their hair by having a hairball remedy in your kit.

Owners must also consider buying a cat shampoo that are in powder or foam form. These type of shampoos does not need water to apply, which is best if your cat hates to be bathe.

A skunk odor remover is also great to be handy, for this will works best if your cat will be sprayed, because it removes the smell in an instant.

Mentioned above are a few of the important things a cat owner must have in their grooming kit to keep their cat good looking at all times.

How to Keep Birds As Pets

Having Birds as Pets: Responsible Ownership of Pet Birds

There are a lot of people who think that if you want to have a pet bird, it is like buying it and sticking it in a cage. Owning pet birds is not just feeding them when necessary and sometimes changing their paper. You have to be very responsible if you have decided to keep birds as pets. Even if you consider to give them some bird toys, it does not mean that you will have healthy and happy pet bird.It is a great responsibility and if you really want to acquire a companion, think in advance whether you are able to handle.

Before you start, consider a few things which are important if you intend to have a pet bird and after that you have to make the final decision to keep birds as pets or to choose a different type of pet.

Think about the cost

Depending on what pet bird you are going to have and how big it is, the expenses are different. For example, the larger the cage is the more expensive it is. Also there are other supplies, be ready to pay for some additional things.
Not only the cage, the same is with the food- the larger your pet bird is the more food you will need for it. Probably you think that all this sounds really expensive and you are right, do not forget that there are also toys and maintenance of the cage, all of them very important.

There are unexpected costs, for vets ,for example, who are maybe not very helpful with birds and you have to seek for an avian specialist who is very expensive.

Think about the time

You may think that you do not have free time to have a dog so you’d better have a pet bird because they do not require a lot of attention. You are wrong! Some people even do not have time for a nap, they will not have enough time for pets, either. For good bird health it is very important to handle them and play with them as much as you can.
Think about the space

Also there are a lot of people who think that birds do not require a lot of space and they are wrong again. The bigger your bird is the bigger space it needs, so be ready to move out some furniture. They also need to fly so if you do not have space for it, you’d better reconsider the things.

But do not forget the great advantage of having a pet bird- you can have a friend for life if you look after them properly, they are real characters and they bring joy and color in your home. Also they live long and they are commitment for a long period.

Pet Health Questions Concerning Cancer

There are many pet health questions concerning cancer, which is one of the most common reasons for death in pets. Cancer will develop in more than 50% of dogs and cats over the age of 10.

More traditional medical treatments often do not help the stricken animals, but a number of home pet care remedies can be effective.

One of the common pet health questions concerning cancer is what are some signs of the dreaded disease?

A firm lump that grows and does not go away is one sign.
Another is an increased appetite but continued weight loss.
Respiratory problems are another sign and an overall weakness could indicate anemia.

Lymphona and mast cell tumors are the most common spreading cancers in dogs. Lymphoma is the most commonly diagnosed malignant type in cats often secondary to Feline Leukemia Virus infection.

Another one of the common pet health question is what causes the cancer to develop:

Cancer is usually a disease of older dogs and cats with over half the deaths of pets 10 years and older.

The exact causes of cancer are unclear but there is a genetic correlation with an increased incidence in certain breeds. The number one breed of dog diagnosed with cancer is the Golden Retriever with Boxers being a close second.

Exposure to smog, herbicides, and insecticides in the environment plays a big roll.
Preservatives and other chemical additives in pet food may also cause cancer.

The next one in line for common pet health questions: is what can done to prevent the cancer?

The most important thing that you can do to prevent cancer in your pet is to examine what your pet is eating. Healing of our pets can come from within when the body is supported with the building blocks needed to maintain healthy cells and repair damaged ones.

A premium, quality holistic diet, avoiding artificial colors and using a natural preservative is the best. Some dogs thrive on a raw food diet- if you take the proper precautions, then this is a great option.

Carbohydrates and proteins cause cells to thrive but can't grow as fast with fats. Certain veterinary diets have been designed for this, but you can also make your own low-carbohydrate, high-fat cancer diet.

Simple Cancer Diet: 50% chicken/fish, 50% mixed vegetables, 1/2 tsp of olive oil per 10 lbs, salt and garlic to taste.

A supplement is the next most important thing that can be done augment your pet's diet.

The omega 3 essential fatty acids should be added to EVERY pet's diet. These fatty acids are vital in that they are great anti-inflammatories and have been shown to prevent the spread of cancer. Flax is the best source for dogs but for cats, the liquid form is the only option. They should receive it twice daily of Salmon oil or a supplement such as EFA capsules, which can be purchased from your vet.

Flavonoids are also essential for a pet’s diet. These are compounds in a class of their own. They give the bright color to fruits and vegetables. They are antioxidants as well as having anti-cancer properties. These include flavones, (apigenin), isoflavones (genistein), flavanols (quercitin). Purchase a mixed bioflavoniod product that contains polyphenols, particularly EGCG (epigallocatechin-gallate), which is the specific flavonoid isolated from green tea.

Finally antioxidants have been shown to slow the growth and spread of some types of cancer. Vitamin C, Vitamin E and Selenium are the most effective ones.

Why Should You Get a Dog Fence

Owning a dog can be a lot of fun, but it also entails a lot of responsibility. On one hand, a dog can provide you the warmth of sincere companionship, love and protection that is very hard to find nowadays while on the other hand, dogs enjoy running and playing in wide open areas. This could come quite easy if you own a large estate. But for most of us, our yards are simply too small for our best friends. As a result, they often end up wandering away from the lawns and either get lost get teased by the strangers which causes further wretchedness to them.

This is just one of the many reasons why you should install a dog fence as soon as you own a dog. Traditional dog fences are simply comprised of a fence that is made out of aluminum or wood. These are extremely easy to install, and with basic materials that you can purchase from your local hardware store. There are also a number of different fence designs that you can download from the Internet and use to build your own dog fence.

While traditional dog fences are able to serve its purpose of keeping your dog within the confines of your property, its effectiveness is relatively short-lived. Dogs are very smart creatures and over time, they eventually learn to get around the dog fence that you have put up. For this reason, many dog lovers have begun choosing alternative dog fences that are now available at local pet stores and over the Internet. The most popular choices have been electric and wireless dog fences.

Unlike its traditional counterparts, these kinds of fences are made to train dogs to become limited to a certain area of the lawn. Electric and invisible dog fences consist of wires that can be concealed among the bushes and grass around your property and a dog collar. When your dog comes into close contact with the fence, it sends out a signal to the dog collar which results in having a beeping sound and a mild shock to be given to the dog, discouraging the dog to ramble further. Thus not only these fences prevent your dog from running when the gates are open, these alternative dog fences allows you to keep your front and back yards beautiful and inviting, making these more appealing to many dog lovers. Moreover, electric and invisible dog fences can suit dogs of any size. This means that you do not have to increase the height of your fence should you and your entire family decide to get a much larger dog in the future.

Training Your Dog with Treats

Giving dog treats is a popular part of training your pet. Most of the pet owners love to pamper their dogs with treats during their training sessions or to restrain them from chewing almost anything and everything around. These days a wide range of natural dog treats that promise to be tasty as well as healthy are widely available in markets.
What are Bull Sticks?

Bull sticks are popularly termed as beef sticks, steer stix, pizzle sticks and beef pizzles. Bull sticks are one of the many varieties of dog treats available in the market. Unlike rawhide bones, these treats are made out of the beef of cow and not from the hide. This makes bull sticks easy to digest without the risk of increasing obesity. This kind of dog treat has high protein content that keeps the pet healthy and energetic. Bull sticks are rich in taurine, an amino that prevents unnecessary health disorders in your pet.

Bull sticks are available in numerous shapes and sizes. Some pet owners prefer flavoured bull sticks. There are companies who manufacture braided bull sticks which strengthens the teeth and jaw muscles of dogs. Chewing of bull sticks can ward off the unwanted growth of tarter and plaque in your pet's mouth. Some brands produce natural bull sticks without any preservatives, added colours, chemicals, antibiotics, hormones or steroids. Dogs simply love to gorge on their bull sticks mainly because of the natural flavour and smell of animal flesh.

Are Bull Sticks safe?

Pet owners prefer bull sticks as a natural, safe, and healthy chew for their dogs. Bull sticks are made to ease out the chewing and teething problems of your growing puppy. Pets habituated to chewing bull sticks usually have stronger jaws and fewer cavity problems. Bull sticks last longer because they are harder than the other varieties of dog treats. Hence it gratifies the pet's urge to keep chewing.

It is advisable that pet owners conduct substantial research before picking up a particular brand of bull stick for their pet. One should never compromise on the quality of the treat as that can wreck havoc on the health of the pet.

Providing Bedding for Large Pets

If you really care for your pet and love him then you'd surely look after the things that provide him comfort. And this can be quite a venture if you own a large breed of pet. Though, no one needs to worry about it any more since Mammoth Pet Beds are easily available in extra large sizes. Therefore, if you own a large pet you should really consider about purchasing Mammoth Pet Beds for your four legged friend.

The next best reason to purchase Mammoth Pet Beds is the comfort they provide to your pet. If you’re pet is a large breed it is a lot more complicated to make them at ease. Think about it; does any one like to lie down on the floor? Is it comfortable? No we don't, and if it isn't easy for us would it be easy for them? It also depends on the breed of the pet; if it is a large sized pet then it would be a larger painful process. Mammoth Pet Beds provide a better level of comfort to your pet. Mammoth Pet Beds are designed with such fabrics that give an assurance of complete rest and comfort to your pet while he is asleep.

Do you keep worrying that your pet isn't feeling at ease? Why then do you keep on kicking your pet off of the sofa or easy chair? These are some of the places that they really feel relaxed in while asleep and those are the same places that you might have to work with. Therefore, Mammoth Pet Beds come off as a convenience for the people who own pets. If you provide your pet with their special place to sleep or rest then they wouldn't come out invading your area. A pet invading your area isn't very bad, but some times you really cannot accommodate them.

A special space for the pet must also be considered when you want to clean the house. Your pet, being an animal is common to getting dirty and making your furniture dirty. If the pet has just returned back after playing outside, their paws and body might be filthy and you really do not want them to hit upon your bed or other furniture. There are health concerns also attached with it. Mammoth Pet Beds can reduce your concerns.

Do not think that owning a large breed pet or any pet is trouble. You do not have to forgo their comfort. You can demonstrate your love by buying a Mammoth pet bed, since even he is a part of your family. Therefore, when considering the comfort of your pet or your handiness you just need to consider Mammoth pet beds.

Safe Stable Cleaning

It has come to my attention that whenever I go to any stable, farm or horse trailer, it always has that extreme odor that takes a lot for me to inhale. It can be so extreme that I cannot stay very long in its environment.

I wanted to find a way to attend to this issue with a product that would be safe and cost effective . There are so many products that are very harmful to our animals, people & our surrounding geographic
land.

It can be an extensive chore to actually clean a stable, because you must completely remove all the animals, all bedding and you have to wait for hours to air out the premises before allowing the animals back in. This is due to the chemicals that are out there to clean these stables.

Wanting to ensure a non-toxic product, research was done and a new product was formulated.
My main concern was the safety of the stable inhabitators.

Now, I have found a safe, tasteless (which promotes no chewing) hay-scented cleaner and brightener that works within the realms for animal safety.

Also, this can be done on a daily basis, so that eventually it will be a maintenance cleaning that will take less and less time as there is no major removal of your occupants.

This product has had excellent results and much feedback to be one of the first in it's field and can be used for various other applications such as removing mold, mildew and grime from wood, concrete, rubber matting, plastic and just about any surface needing cleaning.

How wonderful to be able to offer a product such as this knowing I am helping our environment, the stable owner and most of all our pets.

Tools for Finding a Lost Pet

When a family pet goes missing, it can be a devastating and worrying event. But now there is one more way to seek out a missing pet – by searching online. Many public databases have now sprung up online, bringing people in communities and cities together in order to find and post, missing and found pets.

Previously, searching for a missing pet has been a stressful experience. But searching online can be rewarding, as people work together to find missing pets and return them home.

In cities across the world, online forums aiming to return lost pets home have sprung up as a way for communities to help one another. In these forums, owners of lost pets post classified adverts with descriptions of the pet, their name and how they might react to being found.

In addition, those who have found lost pets can go online, post adverts of found pets and search for adverts that could match the lost pet they’ve found. From there, the owner and finder can meet up and hopefully return the pet to their home. In many cases, owners will post adverts and descriptions of family pets even if they have not been lost. This ensures that the pet can be found if they ever go missing.

There are, of course, many other ways for pet owners to search for missing pets. Posting pictures of the lost pet - as well as any other information in the area that the animal was lost in - will help those who live there identify a lost pet if they see one.

It’s also a good idea to get many people involved in the search as possible to cover a large area of ground. Inform neighbours, local shop keepers and businesses that your pet is lost and be sure to give an up-to-date, accurate description of what your pet looks like and answers to. In some cases, offering a reward will help those that are reluctant to get involved search for the pet.

Be sure to contact your local veterinarian to let them know your pet is missing. This will ensure that you will be contacted in case your pet is found injured and is taken to the vet for medical care.

What's more, purchasing adequate pet insurance will ensure that the costs of searching for a missing pet are covered. That way, you won’t have to worry about the monetary costs of looking for your lost pet and you will be able to focus on finding your lost pet.

Tips on Caring For Goldfish

If you're thinking about breeding goldfish, then you will soon have some fry to care for. There are a few things you need to know about caring for goldfish. They are very fragile, so you can easily cause harm. This article will give you a few tips on how to care for them properly.

Water

When they're born, they measure about 1/8 inch and are very fragile. The water in the tank that you keep them in should never be above six inches. If it is, the weight of the water may crush them. The ideal water temperature in the tank is approximately 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

Food

After they hatch, you don't have to feed them for a few days. During this time, they will feed off of their yolk sac. This lasts for about two days at which time they will start swimming around looking for food.

When caring for goldfish fry, most owners feed them strained egg yolk for about two weeks. After this, you can start feeding them brine shrimp. It's important that you always have food available for them to eat. However, you also need to be careful that you don't pollute the water too much. It can easily be fatal to the fry.

Size

You should never have fry in the same tank as adult fish. Goldfish will eat anything that fits in their mouth, and that includes their little fry. They will eventually grow in size, so you will need to have an additional tank ready to separate them when they're ready.

Tips on Sexing Discus Fish

Do you have some adult discus fish and want to know whether they are male or female. In this article I’m going to share with you some of the tips and techniques you can use to determine the gender of your discus or those you wish to buy.

First of all, know that these are only guides and they are not always 100% correct as in some circumstances females have male characteristics and males have female ones.

Here are ways to determine the sex of your discus

1, The dorsal and anal fins

Take a good look at the dorsal and anal fins of your discus. Are they rounded or are they pointed. Males tend to have pointed dorsal and anal fins or sometimes have extended growth on the end rear of the dorsal fin. Females tend to have rounds rear fins.

2, The colour and pattern of your discus

Please look at the colour and pattern of your discus fish, compare them to one another in the tank. Some fish will hopefully have more intense colour and some discus will have more pattern. Male discus fish tend to have less intense colour but have more pattern while the female tends to be more colourful but with lesser pattern.

3, Size of the discus

Compare the size of your discus. Male discus tend to be bigger than the females but the size can also depend on whether the fish was stunted or are just small in genetic make up.

I hope these three tips have helped you to sex your discus and will help you when selecting adult discus fish from a shop or dealer.

Fish Articles What Are Some Discus fish Secrets?

Discus fish are quite a shy species of fish and they prefer their environment to have lots of places to hide in as well as for the tank to be kept in a quiet area of the house away from noisy places. The secret to keeping discus fish lies in the diet, the environment and believe it or not, the water is a very important discus fish secret.

Discus fish secrets are not difficult to come by, there are dozens of resources that you can use, including books dedicated to the care of discus fish, websites devoted to breeding and looking after discus fish and more. Many aquarists believe that keeping discus fish is a difficult task and should not be attempted by inexperienced fish keepers; however one of the secrets to successfully keeping discus fish is their environment.

Discus fish are quite large, especially when they are full grown so you will need a tank that can hold at least 20 gallons of water, 27 gallons at a maximum. Their tank should be kept in a quite place because discus fish can become stressed if subjected to lots of noise, and their tank should have plenty of places for them to hide, such as aquarium ornaments, over turned pot plants you can even add a few potted plants to your aquarium for your fish to enjoy. If you are attempting to breed discus, then you must provide them with a surface in which to lay their spawn such as an upturned plant pot.

Another discus fish secret is their diet discus fish must have a varied diet in order to thrive and this includes; beef heart, tetra pieces, blood worms and fresh or frozen brine shrimp. It is important to clean up any left over debris of food because this can make the water in the tank turn very quickly and lead to sick fish.

One of the most important discus fish secrets to know is the water. Discus fish come from the Amazon River and so are used to warm and distilled water. The water in the tank should be kept at a temperature of around 26-31 C, with the temperature 29 C thought to be ideal for fully grown discus fish. The water in the tank must be soft and slightly acidic with a pH level of 5.5-6.5 for wild caught discus fish.