Do You Want To Be A Good Pet Owner?

Author: Nanette Griffith

 Homes with pets are usually warmer-feeling and more, well, "homey." A dog or cat can offer a form of companionship and love that you just can't find some other way. You can return the favor of their love and loyalty by being a first-rate pet owner.

 Whether you will prefer the company of either a dog or cat, you still have different facets and preferences that play into whether a dog or a cat is correct for you, or any pet at all. It will be your responsibility to take care of your pet as best you can.

Choosing your pet

 Are you undecided about whether to get a dog or cat? Give a few moments thought as to what you want from a pet. As an example, if you're looking for a pet to be a lot like a human, and be very centered on being with you and pleasing you, then you should probably get a dog. Dogs can be easily trained for a lot of tasks, as well as guard duty.

 If you want a pet that likes your affection, but is still more independent, then you may want a cat. They require a bit less maintenance. They do not have that "people-pleaser" personality that a dog does, but they can nonetheless be very sweet. A cat really can be a good and loyal friend!
In choosing your pet, you first have to find out the qualifications that you need. Also, you need to see if you have allergies to animal fur and such so that your physician can recommend a pet that you can care for despite the allergies.

Things you need to know about your pet

 When you have made a decision to get a cat, dog, or even both, allow me to share a number of things you need to remember:

1. Don't jump to the conclusion that you got a "dumb" dog for the reason that he doesn't seem as smart as the neighbor's dog. Take some time teaching him some new tricks. It takes training to develop a good, smart dog.

2. Make sure that your pet gets all of the vaccinations it will need to stay healthy. After you first get your new friend, you need to get it to the veterinarian first thing for an initial checkup and shots.

3. Give your pet a bath regularly. It's vital that you keep your pets' fur clean at all times. There are many sicknesses that your dog might acquire, like fleas. If your dog has fleas, the whole household will be affected.

4. Give your pet nutritious food that is 100% complete and balanced. You might like to ask your veterinarian what type of food is suitable for your pet. Remember also that different breeds of dogs and cats can have different nutritional needs.

5. Clean his cage or crate once in a while in order that there are no pests.
Article Source: http://www.articleclick.com/Article/Do-You-Want-To-Be-A-Good-Pet-Owner-/1686102

About the Author:
For dogs, you'll need dog grooming tools, and then for cats, I propose cat grooming products.

Fearful Dog - Dog at the Vet

  Many a proud and assertive dog suddenly melts into jelly as a fearful dog when you take him to that dreaded appointment -- dog at the vet! Just as children (and adults) dislike or fear going to the doctor's office, there is much dog fear of vet. Yours does not have to be a generally fearful dog, simply one who feels threatened by the cool efficiency of all these strangers who hustle around in this cold, sterile place with so many scents of fear!... and especially if a dog muzzle is unceremoniously shoved over the dog's face!

My rescued Border Collie is obediently, but he certainly does not love it at the vet, and is quite eager to return to the car. Most people just rush in there, get the thing done, then get out... and that is scary for a dog! I always prepare my dog in advance.

  So before you go, first check your own attitude. Come in feeling good, exuding confidence and a carefree attitude of "business as usual, no big deal." That will calm and reassure your dog.

But he, too, must come in feeling good. Give him fun outings, so going to the car to this place is just another of your outings to him. Make sure he is relaxed even before getting in the car by giving him proper exercise -- such as running him on a bike or roller blading. Make sure he has had a bowel movement if at all possible, because you want him comfortable.

  Then you need to address the situation at the vet's office itself. One of the reasons dogs do not often like to go to the vet is because the veterinarian is always in a rush... and so are the staff. That can feel threatening.

Every dog (especially a fearful dog) should be allowed time to become familiar with the scent of the veterinarian, staff, and vet environment. He needs some positive time with them in advance of exam time if at all possible. Try to introduce him in a fun way and give him time to adjust to the vet and staff before you actually take him there for an official visit and exam. Just knowing them in advance will provide reassurance to ease your dog's fears... even if they are then moving quickly and efficiently in "work mode" (just as you might do during your own work day, so even that might be familiar to the dog).

If your dog is extremely fearful and requires a dog muzzle, take your time in introducing one. Introduce it on a day prior to the vet appointment, at some place else where the dog is not so stressed and is having fun. Take your time introducing the dog muzzle. It may take thirty minutes, but it is worth it to make the fearful one surrender to the muzzle. This way, she will not fear it any more and will see that it means no harm. Then when vet appointment time comes, go early and, by advance arrangement with the staff, start on this process at a calm, leisurely pace -- not the frenetic pace of a normal in-and-out, get-it-done, office visit.

Cannot get a dog muzzle on? Here are two important dog behavior tips. 

1. Get an obedience dog trainer with muzzle experience to help in advance of thevet visit or to go with you. Have the professional restrain the dog while she releases her frustration -- by holding the scruff of the dog's neck, or the loose skin on the sides of her neck under her jaw. A skittish dog often screams the first time this procedure is done, so do not panic if such occurs. (That is all the more reason to acclimate her to the dog muzzle in advance.)

2. Remember to make your dog face his or her fear. The more you give in to her fear displays, the worse it will be. Never let the dog go when she is nervous, as that is when most dog bites occur. Fear bites. They can be nasty. So just stay in your control position until your dog calms down and you accomplish your goal.

It is the same thing always in dog training and dog relationships. Fearful dog or not, YOU must be a firm, consistent, persistent Leader. Never let go when the dog throws a tantrum (or you will be bitten), and always maintain your position until the dog is calm. The dog must see that you will not be the "first to look away" (hence, lose), but that you remain immovable until you accomplish your goal. Such leadership will comfort, reassure, and restore your fearful dog more than anything else -- even at the vet!

Fearful Dog Problem? Ask Rena Murray at http://www.pawpersuasion.com/contact.php for Coaching! This Dog Behaviorist-Obedience Dog Trainer blends best of the Dog Whisper Behavior and other methods in no-nonsense Articles and FREE Newsletter at www.PawPersuasion.com . Suspect a medical problem? Get expert Veterinarian insight - http://www.pawpersuasion.com/health.php

Kittens Training With Me Is So Simple

Author: donny mckenzie

 Cat Training Ideas - Learn How To Train your Cats To Behave

 

 Fun and profitable, no matter how naughty your cat is , Cat Training Ideas will easily assist you to to achieve training up probably the most naughty of the pets. cats are the fast novices and as Cats being quick inexperienced persons they are going to study quick however it is your accountability that you wish to be patience and you will need a a lot of affection to deliver the desired modification in your pet which you want. Not much of fear although in the event you observe cat coaching tricks to your cat patiently , you'll surely get the proper outcome and obedient conduct of your cat.

 Cat Training Ideas that may aid you to train your cat the very best way you need:

No one learns with out experience , Cats additionally study by way of experience. Cat training suggestions will merely show in you the proper means to prepare your naughty cat . First step is an important step in cat training ideas , Whenever you first convey your cat residence you will want to watch your cat getting accustomed to its surroundings. In cat coaching tips there are the 2 most effective methods that will help you train your cat - target training and clicker training.

 Target Coaching- This is a very powerful training in cat training tips , Objectives are admirable coaching aids and the coaching turns into a lot straightforward for trainers. What you must do in this coaching is that You'll use an object it can be anything principally what your cat likes simply to draw your cat's consideration and it's been studied that they reply nicely to those trainings.

 It is rather necessary to make use of constructive reinforcement to train catsClicker Coaching- Another essential coaching in cat training suggestions is clicker coaching , On this training you might be utilizing a device that can produce a clicking sound which is usually loved via the cats and it's a will have to to be positive that the gadget will make sound solely while your cat is doing some motion that's taught via you . As quickly as your cat plays the specified action the device produces a valid . The clicker acts as a marker for the behavior of your cat.

 It is extremely necessary to make use of constructive reinforcement to coach cats. Efficient cat training tips will involve giving the cat a deal with whilst it performs the specified command. That signifies that in case your cat plays a few favored action that's taught via then you definately you must give a deal with for your cat for appearing that preferred motion for you , on this means your cat will be taught just right habbits and behavior that's taught through you . Its identical to enjoying a recreation together with your cat.

 Muddle Field Training-This is most likely one of the so much essential ones, if you want to have your cat behave the way you want then this training performs a very important role in it. As you realize that the cats are obviously clean creatures, you will only inspire the inherent instinct by way of letting the cat use clutter box. The such a lot effective position to keep the muddle box in your home ought to be a peaceable position , placing litter field in a quiet area and clear atmosphere will do the trick.

Cat Training Suggestions Cats are identical to human beings as you love to stay in a peaceful position the same means cats also like to stay in a peaceable place , Cat coaching suggestions will require you to wash and disinfect muddle field daily. you need to at all times retains your cats muddle field clean once more assume it in this means this is like the way you need to preserve your house clean on a regular basis the same approach cats also feels that the place they're dwelling that position also needs to be stored clear .
Essentially the most delicate and necessary part of cat coaching suggestions is you want to always keep in mind to make coaching periods filled with fun , occurring , lighthearted , satisfying and you should always keep in mind that you must by no means be harsh at the cat as that may lead to unfavorable behavior . Any successful cat coaching suggestions will give consideration to a agency angle but a lot of love and affection is important . Probably the most primary however correct coaching may also permit your cat comply with easy instructions like sitting and standing , rolling over or even fetching things.

By means of following cat coaching suggestions and applying it together with your affection and love , your cat will get acquainted with your own home and surroundings . properly adjusted and completely happy cat will make all the distinction in your family and please please please treat your cat like your member of the family . It will make a selection of difference on your lifestyles in addition to your cats life.
Additional ResourcesKittens Training With You Is Simply EasyUnforgettable Kittens Training MethodsUnforgettable Kittens Training SecretsYou Dont Know This Secret About Your KittenSimplest Methods Of Kittens Training
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About the Author:
 hello everybody if you are a fan of cats and kittens then you can visit my awesome site http://www.kittenstraining.com/

An Overview of American Bulldogs

Author: Lumbardo

 American bulldogs are known for their defined traits and are very popular. Training these dogs can be a lot of fun but it will have to be handled the right way and at the right time. It is not uncommon to see people having no experience with dogs struggling with training their puppy. Often, this can result into aggressive, unhappy or out of control pets. With the right knowledge and a little care it is possible to keep these problems at bay. The reward would be a dog that would be fun to be around with and disciplined. 

Exercise is Important

 One of the first things that you would need to know about American bulldogs is that these dogs are powerful and very active. This may not be convenient for every person since these dogs will need regular exercise and constant care. However, this doesn’t mean that you will have to spend hours each day exercising your pet. What it  means is that you will need to be active and will need to have a regular schedule of taking your dog out with you for exercise each day. Specialized knowledge about how to train, stimulate and exercise these dogs can come in really handy. 

Personality Traits

 American bulldogs are devoted, friendly and happy and they will get along well with families an even with  kids. However, you should remember that these dogs need constant stimulation and are larger in size than most other family dogs. For this reason they would be best suited for families that have older kids and not infants. It would be necessary to watch them when they are around infants because of their weight and their large size. Bulldogs are not known to bite or attack and with good training these dogs can also understand how to behave around very young children and they can be taught to be gentle. These dogs can also get along well with other pets if they have grown up around them. 

Loyalty and Socializing

 This breed is also known to be quite loyal and have a guarding instinct which may sometimes make them a little aggressive or reserved around strangers. Again, it is very important to properly socialize these dogs right from a young age so that there would not be any problems later on. There will be a specific way in which this challenge has to be handled and this is where knowledge and professional training may comes in. Like any other type of breed American bulldogs will need specific training, care and grooming so it is best to learn as much about them as possible.

Article Source: http://www.articleclick.com/Article/An-Overview-of-American-Bulldogs/1687221

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To know more on how to get authentic, good quality American Bulldogs and to find related information about raising and caring for these dogs, please visit http://11-peaks.com.

Responsible Cat Ownership

Author: Madi ClevelandHutson

 Although cats are very different than dogs, they still need comparable kind of love and attention committed to their care. Due to their longer lifespan - over 15 years - taking care of a cat can turn into a really long-term commitment, in terms of both time and cash. Some of the factors include food, litter, and veterinary care. And as with any creature, you have to be responsible enough prior to deciding to introduce the pet into your home.
You will also need cat grooming products. Cats also need regular grooming to keep hairballs to a minimum. Because of this you have to brush their hair at least once a week, whether or not they are short or long hair cats. They also need to have regular exercise, and a scratching post, or else you are going to end up with furniture that is ruined. Cat condos are the best option for both purposes, and these can range in price from around fifty dollars to well in the hundreds, dependant upon the size and all the different features.
You also need to think of your home life and situation when choosing a cat. For instance, if you have children, you need to think about if a cat is right for your young ones. If they play too roughly with the cat, they will probably get scratched! Some cats are more patient and easy-going than others, so you will need to think about that when choosing the right pet for you.

With all the different cat breeds to choose from, it may be a great idea to consult a veterinarian before selecting the right breed for you and your family. Long hair cats tend to shed more, and some breeds are inclined to medical problems that you may not have the time or money to manage. Furthermore, even if it is going to be a fully indoor cat, they still need regular checkups, as well as shots. Also, you should always get your cat spayed or neutered. Male cats usually spray to mark their territory, females are quite annoying with their howling when they are in season. Getting them fixed not only can solve these problems, but prevent unwanted pregnancies. You may also be thinking about getting them declawed, particularly if they are indoor cats.

 Now there are lots of ways to get a cat. You can get them from breeders, and pet stores, but you should consider a shelter cat. Usually there are some sure benefits to owning a shelter cat. One of them is that they are screened to make sure they are appropriate for people, not feral. Many cats find themselves in shelters through no fault of their own, and cats are occasionally harder to get adopted than dogs. Even kittens can have their shots, older cats could even be fixed or have had their claws removed. Shelter cats have also been to a vet generally, had check ups and are in good medical condition. If the cat is too young to be fixed, a shelter might be able to provide a coupon to get this done for a reduced cost. All these cats need is a good loving environment, such as yours.
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You will also need cat grooming products, so be sure to invest in and use a deshedding tool for cats to keep your cat's hairballs low. Your cat, and your furniture, will thank you!

Golden Retriever Training - Practical Tips For A More Effective Obedience Training

 Even perfect dogs need training. Golden Retriever training will be rewarding for both you and your puppy. Golden Retrievers thrive on praise and food. Before you venture out into the dog parks or other social events, you should do a little bit of obedience training. If you are not comfortable performing the task yourself, there are always obedience classes and puppy kindergarten classes available at some of the larger pet stores or by individuals.

 The first step is to take your puppy to a quiet room. There should be no other distractions. Have a pocket full of treats available. Have your dog sit. Hold one of the treats in your hand. When your dog is firmly in the sitting position and puts his head back a bit, give him his treat. This is another case when timing is everything. Repeat this for about ten minutes and then play for a bit. Golden Retriever training should be fun for both you and your dog. You will lose your pets concentration if you continue until he is bored. This should be the only thing that you work on for your very first lesson.

 The next Golden Retriever training session should start with a repeat of the initial lesson. This time, hold the treat a bit longer before giving it to your baby. If the dog stands before five seconds passes, start over and do not give him his treat. Stay by your dog's side and repeat the command and the reward until your pet stays in the sitting position for five seconds. It is important for you to get your golden to sit in position for an extended program with you at their side. If he will not stay in the position with you there, he certainly will not stay there if you walk away. You should extend the time very gradually.

 The third lesson of your Golden Retriever training should begin with a refresher of the second lesson. Once your dog has let you know that he remembers, move on to the next step. Get your dog into the sitting position. Using a firm voice, tell him to "stay." When you have accomplished that, give your dog a treat with an additional command, such as "OK." Repeat and repeat while increasing the time that you hold the treat in your hand. This will be gradual but do it until you can get your pup to stay in the sitting position for at least thirty seconds. If he moves before the thirty seconds, gently command "uh-uh." Don't be too loud, gentle and slow works.

 As your Golden Retriever training progresses to the point where your dog will repeat the commands in any room of the home, you are truly making progress. By introducing distractions and enforcing your commands, you are putting yourself in the position of the leader. You can continue with the stay command until you can walk all around your dog before he moves. Gradually you can walk in other directions until you can get a good distance between you and your dog without your dog moving. Take it slow and be consistent. Effective training takes time and persistence. You will both be happier for it.


James Drake is a Golden Retriever enthusiast and enjoys helping others taking care of this amazing breed. For more great information on Golden Retriever Training, visit http://www.golden-retriever-guide.com.

Green Finches and Zebra Finches

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=J._Knofman]J. Knofman

Green Finches

 A green finch is a large stocky finch with a distinctly forked tail about the size of a great tit. During the summer season, the adult male appears olive-green except for yellow edges across their outer primary wing feathers and a yellow rump. Other parts as the coverts, cheeks and undertail coverts are grayish. One of the major distinguishing features of this kind of finch is that their males become dull during winter. Both sexes have flesh-colored legs.

 Feeding - They feed on seeds, buds and berries. They are specifically in search of sunflower seeds and would throw all seeds on the ground if a feeder contains a seed mix. Feeding on sunflower seeds, they can remain at the feeding venue for hours, gradually picking on the sunflower seeds.

 Unlike some birds, green finch nest in colonies in dense shrubs. Their nest is normally prepared of twigs and grass and lined roots and hair and they are built by the female. The smooth, glossy eggs are white to pale beige with blackish markings, and approximately 21 mm by 15 mm. Both parents feed the young when the eggs are hatched.

 On the other hand, Zebra finches are very easy goings, easy to care for, breed and good home Though Zebra finches have only 5 years as their wild life span, this figure doubles when they are kept within the reach and care of their owners. There has been testimonies that Zebra finches can survive up to 12 to 14 years and this will even make them part of your family on the long run. The adaptability of this finch specie is amazing. They can survive in anything that seemed like an environment including dry savanna, brush or grasslands, cultivated fields and even in pastures.

 Features - There are certain features that are noted with Zebra finches with which they can be distinguished. Unlike green finch, the male Zebra finches always appear with white stomach accompanied with gray wings with a gray upper body. There are still a lot of colors as can be seen on their cheek teardrop. They normally have flanks with vibrant chestnut color with white dots and legs and beak of reddish-orange. The amazing physical feature that they have is the black and white striped pattern on their chest.

 On the other hand, a female Zebra is almost similar in appearance but there are other features with which they can be distinguished from the male. They have lighter legs and beaks with a black teardrop. There are also many other color varieties that Zebra finches can be found which includes chestnut-flanked-white, fawn, pied, black cheek and black or orange-breasted.

Caring For Both Green Finch And Zebra Finch

 You mustn't mistake their wild life requirements with the kind of life they will need when kept in a cage. You need to provide them with fresh food and water everyday. However, unlike water, the food requirements of finches may vary according to the finch in question. Therefore, when you just get them you will need to experiment with various food constituents to find out which one they prefer more and eat better. As a general rule, however, you should provide them with seed with sprouts like alfalfa, vegetables and mashed up hard-boiled eggs, spinach lettuce and bread crumbs. Though it is a finch, but it doesn't eat anything; avoid giving them Cabbage, peppers and onions

 You must always ensure that the remnants of any food substance are removed after they are done feeding. Serve them with fresh foods and never use same food container for two meals if not properly washed. This specie of finches like using their beaks and you must ensure that something is available always for them to strike on.

John Knofman is a great co-writer at FinchTips.com

Check out [http://www.finchtips.com/green-finches-and-zebra-finches/]Why Have Green Finches

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Green-Finches-and-Zebra-Finches&id=6110107] Green Finches and Zebra Finches

Why Is Brushing My Cocker Spaniel Such A Big Deal?

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Suzana_Correa]Suzana Correa

 A freshly brushed Cocker Spaniel is not just a "styling" Cocker Spaniel dog - brushing gets rid of every day dust which would otherwise sit on their pores, and it elevates their skin's blood circulation causing their skin's natural oils to surface, creating a supple, shining coat. Skin diseases are often found later on in our pets' lives and brushing frequently can be very helpful in protecting our best friends against them.

 Much like anything else with regards to dogs, the sooner you get started, the better. Essentially, it's best to start when they are still puppies even if they don't need it. If you start to lightly brush you Cocker at an early age and build it into a fun occasion where he/she spends quality time with you, your Cocker will think of it as a special event. But you must be very gentle with your pup. They have long hair and soft skin so it doesn't take much force to hurt them. If you start when they are a puppy, which is when I recommend, their puppy skin will be specially sensitive. Therefore brush them slowly, gently, and make it a nice, comforting experience for your little one.  Believe it or not, brushing is an excellent bonding routine for you and your friend - dogs love to be pampered and if you start it at an early age, they will be happy to lay there for as long as it takes to get their "pampering" time.

 For long-haired dogs, normal brushing between baths is a vital practice. For one thing, it eliminates tangles before they become very painful matts, it's an easy way to get rid of everyday dust and grime which eventually reaches their pores, it helps ventilate their skin which is also good practice, and finally, it enhances blood circulation which is very good for their skin, since all long-haired dogs are susceptible to skin problems. If that wasn't enough reason already, there is also aesthetics: your pup's coat will look shiny and silky if they are brushed on a consistent basis.

Okay...How Often?

 The frequency a Cocker Spaniel should be brushed will depend on where you live in fact. A standard Cocker in a suburban home, for instance, would probably not get as dirty as fast as their country brothers and sisters so brushing them every three days or so will likely be okay. If your home is in a rural area and your Cocker is always out and about, they will be gathering lots of grime and dirt as they play, and that means you have to brush them more frequently; on a daily basis is ideal in this situation, but if that's too much for your schedule then no less than every couple of days - and of course, they will need to be bathed more frequently. Remember, it is much easier to brush them now than if their coat is tangled - that can turn a relaxing time into pure torment. And of course, if your Cocker is getting dirty, bathe them. Brushing helps remove most of the dust that stays on their hair and skin area however it's not a substitute to bathing your pet. Bathing is the best way to keep their hair and skin healthy.

 A great suggestion with regards to how often you should be brushing your dog is actually by gauging the quantity of hair that is shed when you brush them. If there is a considerable amount of hair being released (check the brush after a couple of strokes) then you should comb more often. It truly varies according to your pet.

What About Matts and Tangles?

 It's better to ensure that you don't allow them to happen at all by making sure that you brush frequently. Assuming they happen however, understand that they can be very unpleasant on your friend. It pulls on their skin and causes them pain. Based on how bad the tangling is, you should start with a wide toothed comb, sectioning off pieces and combing them out softly until all of the tangles are out. Then move to a brush.

Matts are more difficult to deal with and a lot more uncomfortable for your friend. It is different from tangling in that it has to do with the hair that is close to the skin becoming so tangled that it forms a thick mass or ball of hair. These are much tougher to get rid of, and often impossible. First, use a shampoo made specifically to get rid of tangles and bathe your dog, remembering that the matt causes pulling on their sensitive skin. Once they are washed and dry, get started with a wide-tooth comb, sectioning off areas of hairs and then carefully and slowly, combing out the matted bits. If the matted piece is too close to the skin resulting in pain when you try to comb it out, take it off by gently cutting the matted area out with a pair of scissors. If there are several matted spots, consider taking them to a professional groomer at that point. You see? I told you prevention is key.

And lastly, don't groom an agitated Cocker Spaniel dog. Sooth them first or hold off until they are calm or sleepy. Again, make it a form of petting and pampering so they co-operate and relish the experience.  It will make both of your lives easier.

Suzana Correa. Suzana has owned and loved Cocker Spaniels for over 20 years. For more information on all things related to Cocker Spaniel dogs please visit [http://www.cockerspanielcare.com]http://www.cockerspanielcare.com.

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Why-Is-Brushing-My-Cocker-Spaniel-Such-A-Big-Deal?&id=6116889] Why Is Brushing My Cocker Spaniel Such A Big Deal?