Labrador Retrievers: Care for the Pregnant Dog

By Richard Cussons
Labrador Retrievers need proper care in order for them live longer and healthier. The same thing it goes for pregnant Labrador Retrievers. In fact, they even need special care since a lot of changes is happening as the puppies are growing inside her.

A dog's gestation period generally lasts for 60 to 65 days starting from the day she was first bred. During this period, it is important to keep you dog in healthy condition to prepare her give birth to a healthy litter.

Nutrition. A pregnant dog can eat her normal diet during the first 30 days of her pregnancy as long as the food is of high quality. Do not add vitamin supplements to her diet since high quality foods have plenty of nutrients. At around six weeks of pregnancy, gradually increase her food by about 25 to 50%. Start switching her normal food to high quality puppy food. Feeding her smaller meals more frequently throughout the day is necessary, however, the foods should be easy to digest. Ask your veterinarian for advice regarding this matter.

Exercise. Take her for regular walks to prevent obesity that can create blood-sugar irregularities and delivery problems. Walking will keep her in shape for delivery but avoid obedience training or other activities that may cause her stress. Even if your pregnant Lab enjoys agility, frisbee or flyball, these activities should be avoided during pregnancy. But stop taking her out during the last three weeks of gestation to protect her from diseases.

Whelping Box. A couple of weeks before her expected delivery, prepare a birthing or whelping box. The box should be wide and deep enough to accommodate puppies four to six weeks of age. Line the box with newspapers, blankets, towels or old clothes. Secure enough clean towels so that each puppy will have its own clean towel during the birthing process. Introduce and get her used to the box about one week before the expected delivery.

Body Temperature. A normal dog's temperature should be 101-102 degrees Fahrenheit, however, a pregnant dog's temperature will drop a few degrees about 24 hours before whelping.

Vaccinations. Pregnant dogs should not be given vaccines because some vaccines may cause abortion. Vaccines should be given before the breeding.

The time has come when you see your dog becomes nervous, restless, shivers, loses her appetite, vomits and has contractions. The vet must examine the puppies shortly after their birth.

About the author:
Richard Cussons is a writer with tons of knowledge on Labrador Retrievers. Discover effective Labrador training tips at labradorsavvy.com.

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Is Your Boxer Dog Suffering From Inhalant Allergy?

By Richard Cussons
One common problem affecting dogs, even your well cared Boxer dog, is skin related problem. Inhalant allergy is common in dogs as much as it is common in people. But unlike people who react to allergens through respiratory symptoms, dogs react through skin problems. In fact, pets almost always show allergic reactions through their skin, meaning, itchy skin may be due to food allergy, insect bite allergy or inhalant allergy. It is therefore a must to identify the underlying cause of itchiness before taking any measure to treat it.

Atopy in dogs is usually caused by the very same substances as those which cause reactions in people. These substances include pollens from trees, pollens from Bermuda grass, dust, mites and molds. If your Boxer dog shows seasonal itchiness, then it is caused by pollens. If the itchiness is present throughout the year, this maybe because of mold or dust.

Affected dog will display itchiness and scratching in every parts of the body, more severe on feet, flanks, groin and armpits. Biting, chewing at feet and constant licking can also be seen. Hair loss, skin lesions and inflammation may follow. Skin becomes thickened, greasy and has a strong odor. Ear flaps may become red and hot and may later lead to chronic ear infections. Constant chewing or scratching may give way for hot spots to develop and because of much licking, the dog's hair color turns reddish to orange.

Atopy can be treated through various options. Symptomatic therapy (cool baths with or without Epsom salts or medicated shampoos) is frequently done however, this therapy provides only temporary relief. Corticosteroids are also used to reduce inflammation thus reduce itchy skin, however, they also affect every organ in the body. Side effects include increased thirst and appetite, increased need to urinate, inflammation of the pancreas, lethargy and termination of pregnancy. Consult your vet before giving these drugs to your dog. Antihistamines can be given as alternative to steroids. These drugs are far less harmful than steroids but not as reliable. Topical such as dips, soaks, shampoos and ointments are also used to reduce itching.

Atopy cannot be totally prevented since no one can really prevent airborne particles and allergens from messing your dear Boxer dog. However, if you know which substances your dog is allergic to, it is best to avoid those. Reduce molds by using dehumidifier or by placing activated charcoal on top of the exposed dirt in your house plants. Use air cleaner to control dusts and pollens.

You cannot stop allergies from affecting your dog but there is something you can do to help prevent the problem- be careful in choosing your potential pet. Before breeding, a reputable breeder screens breeding stocks for possible diseases these animals are carrying in their genes. Ask your breeder about it.

About the author:
Richard Cussons writes articles about Boxer dog. Visit boxersavvy.com and learn more about Boxer dog training.

Set Boundaries and Keep your Dog Safe and Healthy

By Jennifer Johnson
Dogs are sociable animals. They love to wander, run around and play. Most states have leash and containment laws that prohibit dogs from running at large. It is not safe also for your dogs to go wandering around. Unfortunately, not all dog owners have large yards where they can let their dogs run around. Some dog owner chained their dog in their backyard, although this keeps them in their premise, this also subjected them in to strangulation and risk of injury. As dog owners, you need to establish a limited and secure place where you can let your dog play and run around.

It is recommended to use dog fences for your pet dogs. In choosing a fence for your dog, you should consider the advantages and disadvantages of each type, and the requirements of your yard. Choose a dog fence that will fit on your budget, works with the size of your yard and is safe for your dog. There are several options to choose from on what type of fences that would suit best to your dog. If you go on the traditional way and material like picket fence that is made of wood, make sure there are no gaps on your fence where your dog can escape through. There are also more revolutionary types of dog fences that are available in the market.

Types of Dog Fences

Wireless Dog Fence- This type of fence uses single or multiple transmitters. These transmitters are capable of producing radio signals which will identify the boundary for your pet. The dog wears a collar receiver that produces a warning beep when it comes near the boundary. With this, your dog will learn his/her boundaries.

Indoor Dog Fence – This type of dog fence uses a small, disk-shaped transmitter where you can place near the area that you want to keep from you dog. It has a collar receiver that also produces a warning beep when your dog is near the boundary.

Underground Dog Fence – This type of dog fence is similar to wireless and indoor dog fence, except that it uses underground cables in defining and laying the perimeter. The wire boundary can be installed in any configuration the owner chooses. It has a collar receiver that produces warning when the dog approaches the boundary.

Investing to keep your dogs safe and healthy is worth it. After all, dogs are man’s best friend.


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Find more information on Dog Fences, Dog Fencing and Electric Dog Fences


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Things to Consider in Choosing Dog Shock Collar

By Jennifer Johnson
There are some misconceptions about dog shock collars and how they really work. The shock that is emitted by collars is minimal and safe to the dog. The shock that is emitted depends on the level that you specify on the collar. Dog shock collars are used to train or for behavior modification of dogs. The use of dog shock collar depends on the behavior of your dog that you want to modify. Some of dog collars are designed to stop or reduce the excessive barking of dog. This is sometimes referred as electronic dog collar. There are various types of dog shock collar available in the market that you can choose from. In choosing or purchasing a shock collar for your dog, there are things to consider. It is more than just choosing the expensive ones. It is best to take into accounts the safety of your dog in choosing a dog collar.

First, consider the age and size of your dog. If your dog is still a puppy, select a flat buckle collar that is safe for your dog. If the dog is fully grown, a type of collar that would be sufficient should be strong. Make sure that the collar you use for your dog fits well as they will not be choke. Second, consider the personality or breed of your dog. If your dog is strong and has a tendency to be stubborn, make sure you choose a sturdier collar that is suitable to his attitude. Consider also the material of the collar that you use for your dog. There is wide range of materials for dog shock collar. The most popular are leather and nylon. These two are durable and less expensive.

To make sure that the use of shock collar to your dog is safe, consult a veterinarian. The improper use of these devices can harm your pet so, it would be ideal if you consult a professional. Dog training is not easy and takes time and effort on the part of the owner to train their pet. It needs constant reinforcement from the owner to make the dog understand and recognize the things that you want to teach them.




About the author:
Find more information on Dog Shock Collar, Electronic Dog Collar and Remote Dog Trainer

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Discover The Best Of Boxer Dog

By Richard Cussons
It was in 1895 when the Boxer dog was first exhibited and a year after when the first Boxer club was being founded. As the years go by, people are becoming interested in this breed that it became the sixth most popular breed of dog in the United States based on the 2007 American Kennel Club statistics.

There are definitely very good reasons why the Boxer dog breed gained its popularity spot in the AKC standard. The role as working dog is probably one of the reasons for this popularity. They are widely used as guard dogs because of their suspicion to strangers, alertness, agility and of course, strength. Apart from that, they have also been used as service dogs, guide dogs for those with physical impairment (more particularly seeing eye dogs for the blind), therapy dogs, police dogs and sometimes in herding cattle or sheep. The usefulness of Boxer dog doesn't just end being working dogs. Their friendly and lively nature makes them popular pets to a lot of dog lovers. They are very good with children and patient with smaller dogs and puppies. But, take note that this active breed should not be left alone doing nothing for they become extremely destructive when bored. They will most likely dig and chew furniture, household items and plants to ease the boredom they are feeling. Better provide them with lots of toys to play as well as games to keep their intelligent minds and energetic bodies working. This breed earned the reputation of being headstrong, thus obedience training is necessary to deal with it. Boxer responds better to positive reinforcement techniques rather than training based on corrections.

This breed can live for 10 to 12 years provided there is proper exercise, conditioning and care necessary to continue the health and longevity. They may be prone to some illnesses such as cancer, hypothyroidism, hip dysplasia, bloat, intestinal problems and allergies, but these can be easily prevented with proper care, proper diet and more importantly, careful breeding. Before breeding, breeders should make sure that the breeding stock does not carry various diseases in its genes. This is to decrease the spread and occurrence of various diseases in future generations.

When it comes to looks, one cannot truly say that this one has the least beautiful appearance. The head, the most distinctive feature of this breed, must be in perfect proportion to the body. The ears are cropped and erect and the tails are docked, however, these traditions have been prohibited in some countries now because of veterinary associations and animal rights groups, seeing the process as being inhumane or cruel to animals. An adult female boxer dog typically weighs between 50 to 65 pounds and stands 21 to 24 inches at the withers. The male can be taller and heavier than the female.

Whether a family dog or a working dog, this breed really deserves to be one of the most popular dogs, not just in the AKC standard, but perhaps in the world.

About the author:
Richard Cussons has written various articles on dogs. For information about Boxer dog and Boxer dog training, check out boxersavvy.com.

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Adopt A Boxer Dog In Your Area

A Boxer dog breed is an epitome of a strong dog with excellent working abilities, great love and loyalty to his master and the bravery to protect his master in times of danger. Who wouldn't want to have this kind of animal as a pet or as a part of the family? Perhaps almost everybody will have arms wide open to welcome this versatile breed. But how come that some of this breed's fellows are being abandoned and turned over to shelters or rescue groups or worst, being left behind to wander on their own until they die due to dehydration, starvation or sickness?

There are many reasons or excuses why some of these formerly loved and adored beautiful creatures are abandoned by their previous owners. It could be inability to house and provide the animal with the physical and social needs in order for him to grow healthy and happy, or the lack of understanding of the cost of being a responsible dog owner. The list of these reasons or excuses goes on, each owner may have similar or different reason from another.

There are lots of homeless dogs out there who have been abandoned, neglected or abused by their previous owners. They need a good home with loving people that can provide them with their daily needs, be it physical, social or emotional. However, getting a new owner doesn't happen at a snap of the fingers. Some people seem to think that abandoned dogs are abandoned because of health or behavior problems, thus won't make good pets. But people should always keep in mind that not all abandoned dogs are problematic dogs. In fact, there are many advantages of adopting a dog, especially the adult one. Most dogs in the shelter are already housetrained, thus eliminating the time and frustration associated with it. Most of them have completed their vaccination shots and have been spayed or neutered. In addition, by adopting a Boxer dog in your local shelter, you are being helpful to your community by freeing one space for the shelter to accommodate another pitiful dog. You help lessen stray dogs that could possibly destroy plants or public and private property in your area.

By adopting a dog, be it a Boxer dog or any breed, you are making a difference to the life of that pitiful creature. You give that creature the opportunity to continue living in the environment where love and care reside.

About the author:
Richard Cussons has written various articles on dogs. Visit boxersavvy.com for great information about Boxer dog and effective Boxer dog training tips.

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Tips In Choosing A Boxer Dog

By Richard Cussons
You learned that the Boxer dog is one of the most popular breeds today. Upon research, you discovered that this breed possesses characteristics you want for a pet. Well, who wouldn't be enthralled with the idea of having a strong working dog as a pet? There are many options as to how are you going to acquire this strong-willed Boxer dog. You can look in the newspaper and choose from lots of puppies for sale. You can even have one without leaving the comforts of your home. All you have to do is go online and let your hands and the search engines do the work. The list of available dogs will be right in front of you. What should you do? Are you going to take home a new pup immediately?

Wait! Don't do anything yet! Or least, don't rush into taking home that pup who stole your heart. Deciding to get a puppy is one of the most important decisions you will ever make concerning a dog's life, deciding what breed and which among those adorable dogs is perhaps another. Prior to making your decision of getting a puppy, you must identify your reason or reasons why you should get one. Is it your deep love for animals that motivated you to finally decide to have a pet? Do you need one for companionship? Your reason for getting a new pet greatly affects your decision as to what breed you are going to choose.

If you have a family and have kids, then Boxer dog is definitely safe for you. Boxer dogs are known for their faithfulness to their masters and have good temperament with children. But beware for this breed distrusts strangers, especially those he perceived as threat to his family. A Boxer dog will devote his life to protect his master in times of danger. They are sensitive to extreme elements of weather, so you must take that into consideration. Learn the personality of an individual dog. Notice signs of hyperactivity, aggression or shyness.

When you are planning to buy a Boxer dog, buy one from a reputable breeder. Background check the breeders carefully. Better ask about his education or experiences and ask if they are members of breed club or obedience club. Ask if the breeding stocks are carefully screened before breeding. Ask other dog owners or anybody that can testify the reputation of your potential breeder. A good and reputable breeder will ask questions about you and your family. Don't be surprised if they do because it is their way to ensure that the one they are selling their dogs is responsible and can provide proper care this breed needs.

Plan carefully and be ready for whatever consequences that may arise. Choosing the right breed, the right dog will prevent you from being stuck in a situation both you and your dog won't like.

About the author:
Richard Cussons has written various articles on dogs. For information about Boxer dog and Boxer dog training, check out boxersavvy.com.

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Before Adopting A Boxer Dog

By Richard Cussons
There are many advantages of adopting a Boxer dog. But before the excitement of taking home the not-so-fortunate abandoned dog urge you to rush to the nearest shelter, you must consider many things. Here are some points to consider before you finally go for it.

- Identify your reason why you need a pet. Do you want a pet that could protect you and your family? Or do you prefer a working dog that is a good guide dog, hunting dog, service dog or therapy dog? Another reason could be because of companionship, someone you can cuddle, stroke lovingly, comfort you in times of turmoil, listen to you or will just spend some quiet moment with you. The reason why you want a pet is often the basis in choosing what breed suits your needs. Some breeds, like the Boxer dog breed is perfect for any household because of its versatility. A strong working dog that is safe to the family, even with children and will protect you even if it will cost him his life.

- Aside from breed, as well as size, fur length and age, think about the behavior of the dog. Choose a more aggressive or at least, strong dog if you want protection for your home and your family. If you simply want a dog you could play and hang around, then you might want to settle in getting a small toy breed.

- Think about your lifestyle. Remember that a dog, especially Boxer dog, requires vigorous exercise and activities to keep up with his active stamina. If you are busy as a bee and cannot provide your dog the proper exercise as well as care and grooming he needs, then you may not be ready to have this animal right under your care, or at least, right under your roof. Lack of time is one of the reasons why owners abandon their dogs in shelters.

- Consider your resources. You should be capable of providing things for the continued health of your dog. There are dog foods, dog beds, food and water bowls, leashes and other stuff to buy. You must also bear in mind that dogs do get sick sometimes thus necessitates the need for veterinary appointment. Veterinary bills could rise up especially if the disease requires a lifetime treatment and if there is no pet insurance to pay that mounting bill. Most owners only realized this when they are faced with the situation and there available option is to turn over the dog at the nearest shelter or euthanized the poor animal.

- Ask the family, or your companions at home if they all agree with the idea. Nothing felt better than having everybody welcome you and accept you as a new member of the family.

Don't rush into taking a dog home. The best thing you could do is to think carefully the consequences of what you intended to do.

About the author:
Richard Cussons is a writer with knowledge on Boxer dog and other breeds of dog. Discover more Boxer dog training tips at boxersavvy.com.

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

Tips for Making Your Dog Feel Adored

by: Sam Brown
Tips for Making Your Dog Feel Adored, Loved and Pampered. Dog clothes, special walks, unique pet toys and even a gentle grooming session can all demonstrate your love and affection for your best friend.

In the spirit of Valentine's Day and showing your love for those you care most for, why not include man's best friend? Dog's show humans unconditional love all year long. When you come home from work, when you wake up or even when you re-enter a room, they are always happy to see you. I can't remember the last time I was greeted as warmly by a person as I am daily by my dog. Canine greetings come so warmly and affectionately that it only takes a wag of the tail to make our hearts melt and feel loved. So it makes sense that we would include them in our expressions of love and affection on Valentine's Day in addition to all our two legged loved ones.

Like any relationship, winning over your dog's love and loyalty takes time, commitment and lots and lots of affection. The reward is far worth the time and effort it takes, for both you and your dog. With the popularity of new shows and books like the Dog Whisperer and How to Be Your Dog's Best Friend and many others, dogs are finally getting more of the love and respect that they deserve.

We can't really tell our pets how much we love them with cards, flowers and chocolates and if you are a fan of Cesar, you know he'd probably scold you just for thinking about it. But there are many gifts that show our pets just how much they mean to us and don't necessarily compromise the roles and boundaries needed to have a healthy relationship.

Simple things like a special bath, a new toy, or even a collection of love themed dog clothes can show your dog that your heart holds a special place for her. Even a new bandana can make your pup sit a little taller. It's not so much that your dog can understand the nature of the gift per se, but dogs can read our faces, expressions and moods. If we smile at them every time we pass him in his new cupid's tee, he's going to respond positively to the warm and welcoming vibe that you're sending to him.

In addition to giving your dog a token of love, it's important to set aside some time just for him, or make it a priority to include her in your festivities. Now this does not mean romance your dog, I'm simply suggesting spend quality time. Go for a long walk and take the time to play. Dogs love when we connect with them on there level just as much as they want to be near and connect with us on ours.

The perfect start to a love filled day would be a gentle bath, a little grooming followed by a delicious treat. While you're at it you can have her help you get excited for your romantic plans by donning her in a set of designer dog clothes fit for the holiday.

About the Author
Sam Brown brings new ideas to pet lovers with tips on gift ideas such as dog clothes, chic and unique pet apparel designer dog clothes for your pampered pet.

The Interesting History of Dogs and A Look At The Collie Breed

by: LethoMaseko
In nearly all parts of the world traces of an indigenous dog family are found, the only exceptions being the West Indian Islands, Madagascar, the eastern islands of the Malayan Archipelago, New Zealand, and the Polynesian Islands, where there is no sign that any dog, wolf, or fox has existed as a true aboriginal animal. In the ancient Oriental lands, and generally among the early Mongolians, the dog remained savage and neglected for centuries, prowling in packs, gaunt and wolf-like, as it prowls today through the streets and under the walls of every Eastern city. No attempt was made to allure it into human companionship or to improve it into docility. It is not until we come to examine the records of the higher civilisations of Assyria and Egypt that we discover any distinct varieties of canine form.

The spine of the dog consists of seven vertebrae in the neck, thirteen in the back seven in the loins, three sacral vertebrae, and twenty to twenty-two in the tail. In both the dog and the wolf there are thirteen pairs of ribs, nine true and four false. Each has forty-two teeth. They both have five front and four hind toes, while outwardly the common wolf has so much the appearance of a large, bare-boned dog that a popular description of the one would serve for the other.

The native dogs of all regions approximate closely in size, coloration, form, and habit to the native wolf of those regions. Of this most important circumstance there are far too many instances to allow of its being looked upon as a mere coincidence. Sir John Richardson, writing in 1829, observed that "the resemblance between the North American wolves and the domestic dog of the Indians is so great that the size and strength of the wolf seems to be the only difference.

The presence or absence of the habit of barking cannot, then, be regarded as an argument in deciding the question concerning the origin of the dog. This stumbling block consequently disappears, leaving us in the position of agreeing with Darwin, whose final hypothesis was that "it is highly probable that the domestic dogs of the world have descended from two good species of wolf (C. lupus and C. latrans), and from two or three other doubtful species of wolves namely, the European, Indian, and North African forms; from at least one or two South American canine species; from several races or species of jackal; and perhaps from one or more extinct species"; and that the blood of these, in some cases mingled together, flows in the veins of our domestic breeds.

The collie dog

The Collie dog makes an excellent sporting dog, and can be taught to do the work of the Pointer and the Setter, as well as that of the Water Spaniel and the Retriever. He can be trained to perform the duties of other breeds. He is clever at hunting, having an excellent nose, is a good vermin-killer, and a most faithful watch, guard, and companion.

The muzzle should be of fair length, tapering to the nose, and must not show weakness or be snipy or lippy. Whatever the color of the dog may be, the nose must be black. The teeth should be of good size, sound and level; very slight unevenness is permissible. The jaws Clean cut and powerful. The eyes are a very important feature, and give expression to the dog; they should be of medium size, set somewhat obliquely, of almond shape, and of a brown color except in the case of merles, when the eyes are frequently (one or both) blue and white or china; expression full of intelligence, with a quick alert look when listening. The ears should be small and moderately wide at the base and placed not too close together but on the top of the skull and not on the side of the head. When in repose they should be usually carried thrown back, but when on the alert brought forward and carried semi-erect, with tips slightly drooping in attitude of listening.

About the Author
More information, tips and guidelines on animals is found through the following link:Animals information guide and funny animals.

The Truth About Dog Chew Toys

by: KimFleming
Most dogs actually need and will appreciate dog chew toys, as they usually can find fun with toys. For you as a dog owner, these toys can help manage your dog's natural inclination to keep on chewing. If you select the right toys, you can keep your dog away from things in the house which you do not like him to gnaw. Besides, chewing can also encourage teeth and gum health and can relieve anxiety and boredom. So, what exactly you should look for when choosing chew toys?

Select the Proper Size

Dogs do not come in one size. The chew toy that you pick should be just right for the size of your dog. If the toy is too big, your dog may not like to play with it at all. On the other hand, if the toy is too small, he might accidentally swallow it and choke on it. You really should know about your dog's breed and size well to get the appropriate toy size. Many reputable chew toy manufacturers will have clear warnings on their labels to help you decide on whether a toy is appropriate for your pet.

Make Sure the Toy is Safe

Aside from checking the size of the toy, you should also check it for safety features. Depending on the breed of your dog, a chew toy that is too hard could damage the teeth. Toys that are too soft could result in accidental ingestion of torn or chipped parts. In general you should avoid chew toys with small beads, buttons, strings, wire, bells and fake fur. Even a mild mannered dog could rip off small parts and swallow them. Swallowed parts can result in choking, mouth wounds, and damage to the intestines and constipation.

Keep a Variety of Toys

You do not want to have a full box of chew toys for your dog, but you should at least prepare several. If a dog plays with only one toy, he can easily get bored. To keep him interested in toys, you should have some variety to rotate. Chew toys with edible treat are also smart choices, as they encourage dogs to play with them.

Keep an Eye on the Dog and Toys

it always helps if you monitor your dog when he plays chew toys. Even very durable toys could come apart due to a factory defect or an extremely aggressive dog. Bring your dog to the vet if you notice vomiting, weakness or unusual behavior after chew time.

You also have to keep an eye at the toys. Even the sturdiest toys have a limit to their lifespan. Periodically inspect your dog's toys and look for signs of wear and tear. Damages to the toy might already be a sign that you may have to replace it. Otherwise you could put your dog's health and life at risk.

Ask Your Veterinarian

You may like to consult your veterinarian when you are not certain whether a chew toy is suitable for your dog. A veterinarian sometimes is even able to recommend good toy brands and retailers.

As said, dog chew toys can bring enormous benefits to a dog's physical and psychological health. With all the tips discussed in this article, you are certainly able to pick up toys that are not just enjoyable but also safe to your pet.

About the Author
Have you bought some dog chew toys for your dog? You can explore more about dog toys from our site. You can even watch interesting dog videos when you are there, or simply enter your video search. Enjoy!

Getting the Best Out of Discount Dog Toys

by: KimFleming
There are so many options for discount dog toys. Some owners may still wonder though if dogs really need toys. Others recognize the value of dog toys but think that buying the expensive kind is always the best. Here are what every dog owner might be interested in knowing about dog toys and discounted toys.

Dog Toys

Giving toys to your dog is one great way to show him that you care for him. Dogs are naturally playful so they need something to play with. Their toys however are more than just mere play things. Dog toys channel your dog's energies away from unwanted behavior. Toys also provide a lot of physical and mental exercise. Best of all, dogs get to form loving connections with their masters when they play together with toys.

Dog Varieties

Not all toys are good for all dogs. The size, texture and style of the toy should fit the size, age, breed and temperament of your pet. There are different ways for you to find out which toys are appropriate. You can trust the toy package label or the opinion of the sales clerk at the toy shop. You can also ask a veterinarian or a dog expert for his opinion.

If you make your purchase online, be sure you examine the descriptions carefully before you pay for any toy. Some reputable online stores will be so helpful as to provide you with comprehensive information on dog toys for specific dogs. You can also look into dedicated online sites that focus solely on dogs.

Discounts

Somehow, it makes sense to shop for discount dog toys first instead of immediately settling for expensive kinds. This is because all dogs are unique. There is no guarantee that your dog will love a toy that other dogs go crazy over. You can get stuck with an expensive item that your dog will not even look at. Discounted toys are a great way to find out what your dog likes without blowing your money.

Do not shy away from discount dog toys, thinking that they are of a lower-quality or that they are second hand products. Some stores and online sites that offer discounts have low prices because they buy directly from factories and sell very close to the factory price. Some stores might also sell low because they are having a clearance sale.

Online Shopping

For online buyer, it is important that you buy from a store with good reputation. It is more preferable that the seller is engaged in selling dog toys only. You can check out a store's reputation by checking customer feedback from forums and review sites.

Online stores should also carry a wide range of toy options to choose from. After all, one rule in shopping for dog toys is to get a handful of various toys that you can rotate on different days of the week. This can help keep your dog interested in playing. Having a wide range of merchandise will also increase the chances that you will find just the right items for your dog.

If selected with care, you may find that most discount dog toys are just as good as the more expensive ones. They are such good bargains that you can hardly pass by. Just be sure to have in mind your dog's safety and best interests.

About the Author
Before you head off to shop discount dog toys, you may like to study more details about dog toys from our site. You will also be able to view a bundle of fun dog videos while you are at our site.

Importing Dogs and Pets from Outside the United States

by: Juble.com
Bringing animals to the United States from a foreign country is not frowned upon by many government agencies. Fortunately, these same agencies understand that the bond between an individual and a pet can be a strong one, so as long as certain guidelines are met, it is allowed, though the process may not be an easy or inexpensive one. There is also the aspect of the financial end of pets. Many pet shops import their stock animals from outside the American borders.

The reasoning for the in-depth process of importation of pets is the dangers involved. There are many very dangerous viruses, diseases, and contagions that are not present in the United States that could very well be brought here by infected animals. Though the Rabies virus is already present in the United States, there are always new and uncertain strains of the virus from other locations.

To combat this risk, the CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention) has placed laws in effect stating that any animals that are brought to the United States from a foreign country must have a rabies vaccination within the past thirty days before being imported. For some other animals that are not overly prone to rabies, such as cats, no rabies vaccination is required.

The CDC is not the only government agency that has placed a restriction on importation of animals. The USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) has placed restrictions on dogs other than those that are from Canada, Central America, Mexico and the West Indies. This is due to bacterial virus's called "tapeworm," and "screwworm." In countries where these viruses are present, the importee must produce documents showing that a licensed veterinarian has inspected the animal in question for this.

When having your pet imported into the United States, make sure that they are not traveling with any substance that might carry a plant disease, such as hay or straw. Also make sure that the animal's feet have been thoroughly cleaned as some of these diseases can be carried in dirt on the animal's paws.

Rare or endangered species and species of animals that do not exist in the United States may be a bit more difficult, or impossible to import. Dogs however, are available within the confines of the US border in every form and breed, so importing them is possible if the correct procedures are followed.

About the Author
Juble.com

How to house train a dog

by: JoleneOh
Training your dog should be fun, awesome, and enlightening for both you and your dog. Dog ownership does take times, brain power (not muscle power), and money, but the benefits are enormous in terms of the relationship you will have with your chosen "best friend." Here are some dog training tips that would make your dog training a successful one.

1. The optimum sessions are three to five minutes in length, three to five times per day, working on only tow or three behaviors each time.

2. In the beginning stages, be sure you don't use the dog's name to get him to look at you, say his name after he looks at you. After a day or two, you should start to see the dog get whiplash looking at you when you say his name.

3. Be always keeping an eye on your dog and heeding the multitude of signals he's giving you about his emotional state, you can avoid potential problems.

4. If the dog does something great, reinforce within a half second. If the dog does something less than desirable, wait for a full five to ten seconds after he stops doing the unwanted behavior, redirect to a better behavior, and then reinforce.

5. Repeat the process often. Dogs retain knowledge through repetitive training and can forget commands or required behavior if you train them only sporadically. To guarantee that your dog is well trained and obedient, work with her on a continuous basis. Repeat the steps of giving a command, marking the response, rewarding the behavior and releasing her.

About the Author
Be Sure to Check Out On how to train a dog the easiest way at http://www.squidoo.com/sit-stay-fetch, a website that specializes in providing resources on the best way to correct bad dog behavior.

Transport Dog Crates and Air Travel

by: GeraldineDimarco
It is not ideal to travel by air with your dog, but sometimes there is no other option. You'll need to consider transport dog crates, and the key is to make the trip as stress free for your dog as you can.

You've probably heard about dogs becoming injured, lost or even of dogs dying when traveling by airplane. The majority of dog air trips are free from complications of any kind, but you do not want to take any risks when transporting your dog by airplane. Preparation is therefore very important.

Before buying your airline tickets or selecting your transport dog crate, you should call the airline and find out their current rules and regulations in relation to pet travel. The general rules relating to pet travel, governed by federal regulations, state that your dog should be no less than 8 weeks old and have been weaned for no less than 5 days before the date of travel.

Small dogs (under 15 pounds) may be able to fit inside small transport dog crates or small pet carriers that will fit under your seat, if you are travelling with your dog. But large dogs must travel in the cargo section of the plane, which has no heat and no air-conditioning. This can be very uncomfortable and scary for your dog.

Some steps you can take to provide your dog with a stress-free airplane trip:

- stop-overs and transfers extend the journey for your dog, so opt for a direct flight wherever you can.

- find out about any delays in your flight schedule before you leave for the airport. You can confirm your flight the day before but it's also a good idea to call the airport just before you are due to leave as well, to double check whether the flight is scheduled to take off on time.

- take your dog for a walk shortly before you leave for the airport.

- check with your vet as to feeding recommendations for your dog. Most vets will recommend that your dog travel on an empty stomach. For long flights, your dog will need to be fed, and your vet will advise you what is appropriate, taking into account your dog's age, size and regular diet.

- ensure that plenty of water will be available to your dog during the flight to prevent dehydration.

- it's good practise to plan to arrive early at the airport. This is especially important when you're traveling with a pet, as there are more things that can hold you up.

- if you are leaving from a destination that's close to the airport, make sure your dog is given an opportunity to toilet just before you leave. If you are a distance from the airport, wait until you arrive at the airport before toileting your dog. Either way, it's important that your dog has a toilet opportunity to avoid accidents in the transport dog crate during the trip.

- get ready for your flight before you leave for the airport. Take magazines or reading material and activities for your kids with you so you don't need to spend time shopping at the airport. It's important that you spend all the time you can prior to boarding the plane with your dog. If possible, put your dog into the transport dog crate yourself (as opposed to airport staff doing this) and if it's allowed, take your dog to the gate yourself as well.

- tell your flight attendant as soon as you board the plane that you have a dog in the cargo area.

- make your way to the baggage area as soon as possible after landing, to meet your dog.

About the Author
If you need transport dog crates, you can obtain further info in relation to dog transport and stylish pet carriers at HealthierDogs.com

Can Aggressive Dogs be Re-Trained?

by: AmyNutt
Having an aggressive dog is not only a problem to the dog owner, but also to other people. You will never know when your dog may attack or injure someone. In fact, dog aggression can result in injuries and even deaths of innocent people, and there are many laws and by-laws that are imposed to punish dog owners whose dogs are guilty of physical assault.

Find the cause of aggression before re-training

If you have an aggressive dog, you should know that it is possible to curb its aggression with the right training. With proper dog training, aggressive dogs will learn not to be hostile towards strangers, or your friends and relatives. However, if you really wish to understand the basics of re-training aggressive dogs, you have to know why dogs become aggressive.

There are numerous reasons why a dog can become aggressive. The main reason may be that it is territorial and feels that its territory is being invaded. Sometimes, it feels threatened with certain changes in the environment, and it will become defensive and react with aggression. This type of aggression usually comes about because of lack of security and confidence, and simple dog obedience training is not sufficient to curb the aggressive behavior of the dog.

Such aggression requires special dog training. The usual symptoms of dog aggression are barking and lunging at people. These symptoms have to be controlled before they become a serious problem that causes bodily harm on other people.

Ask your dog vet to suggest an aggressive dog trainer

Since a dog vet often meets with trainers and dog owners, he or she is the best person to approach when you are looking for the perfect aggressive dog trainer. A qualified trainer will have the necessary experience to control the aggressive behavior of any dog. However, remember that aggressive dog training costs more than normal dog training, and it is usually done with a special skill set. So, set aside sufficient money to pay for this kind of training.

Though you have to pay quite a large sum of money for aggressive dog training, you can be assured that you will get the results that you desire. It is not advisable that you enroll your aggressive dog for normal dog training classes because the trainers will not take any risk to train it with other dogs in the school.

Some training schools may harm your dog

Instead, your dog has to be sent to a special dog obedience training school where qualified trainers have the necessary skills and knowledge to handle aggressive dogs. You can use the yellow pages to find the best training school for your dog. One thing you have to consider when choosing the right trainer for your dog is the training method employed by the training school. You should avoid training schools that use obsolete training methods that can cause harm to your dog.

It is always better to choose a more experienced dog training school. This is because such a school will have the necessary experience and knowledge to train aggressive dogs effectively. As such, it will produce better results with the re-training of dogs.

With the right aggressive dog training techniques, it is possible to train your dog to control its aggression. Once your dog stops its aggressive behavior, you will find that it is indeed a loving companion, and you can spend valuable time with it. Without the aggressive behavior, you need not worry about the safety of your family or that the dog will bite other dogs or people.

Use websites for dog training tips

If there are no aggressive dog training schools or trainers in your vicinity, you can also search the internet to learn some tips on how to curb your dog's aggression. There are some sites on the internet that provide these tips. However, whether or not such tips are effective depends on how you understand and implement them on your dog.

About the Author
For professional dog obedience training and dog training techniques, let our expert dog trainers help you train your dog or puppy.

Six Common Mistakes Made by Novice Dog Trainers

by: JohnMailer

When new trainers start training, they tend to make a lot of mistakes in their approach and methods in their training process. There are some mistakes that are common among most trainers.

Expecting too much- True dog lovers usually expect too much and often make this mistake. This happens only when they watch the well trained dog or neighbor's dog doing some tricks like that of any sitcom characters. This also happens when they go to the park and see all the dog owners enjoying the company of their dogs that are obedient and well trained. At that moment, they tend to forget all the time and money that has been spent to train these dogs.

Giving Up- This is also a common mistake done by novice dog trainers. Just because the dog cannot learn to play Frisbee in an hour or so, the owners conclude that the dog would just not learn at all.

Positive reinforcement- Many frustrated trainers go home with deprived results because they forget to reward their dogs for doing well. Rewards must be consistent, just like the training. The dog which always receive only correction and never gets rewarded will get frustrated.

Not Following thoroughly- Dogs love to learn and will learn through repetition and consistent lessons. However, these lessons must be followed correctly. If you happen to train him only for few hours on Monday and totally forget to train him for the rest of the days then it is very obvious that he would not remember anything at all.

Techniques- While it important to glean wisdom from other trainers experiences, using everything you hear can be detrimental. Each trainer has different ideas of how things should be done and trying to incorporate all of them will frustrate you and your pet. Rather, choose a method that works for you and be consistent and you will see much better results.

The major mistake the trainer makes is by thinking that the training is over. Training is a learning process and it doesn't have an end. Your dog may learn some commands and know it well. So why do you stop there? Your dog loves to learn and you are a good trainer. Train your dog something new and enjoy your day forever.

With the knowledge of these mistakes that are often committed by trainers, you can recognize some of the common feelings that you might have encountered while training your dog. So it is better to stem in the initial stages itself before they become a problem.

About the Author
John Mailer offers excellent tips and advice on dog and puppy training including how to look after their health and other dog problems. Want to learn Online Dog Training Lessons for FREE? Visit the website http://BasicsDogTraining.com and find out the ways.

Is Dog Training Necessary?

by: FranciscoJavierCabreraRosello
Dog training is a fine art process, not a science. Many educators and their facilities produce an instruction technique. Dogs will always be dogs and humans will continually try to make their dog into a furry person. Dog Training is as important as feeding and watering. That small, beautiful, loved, huggable, kissable, lovely puppy, could turn into a big nightmare if not shown the proper guidance.

Dog training is a tremendously rewarding career. One should remember first of all that, for the most part, training is a "service" profession and that one is usually working with people who happen to have dogs. Dog training is more than just telling your dog to stop doing what he's doing, it is the process of teaching a dog to exhibit certain desired dog behaviour in specific circumstances. Proper dog training is not a "quick fix" - it is an ongoing, life-long process.

Dog training isn't necessarily an arduous work but it is a way which needs a big deal of patience as well as the ability to realize which types of training techniques are most effective for the particular dog you are disciplining. There are a number of different techniques which can be used to train a dog.

One of the main needs for dog training is aggression. Aggression related dog behaviour problems include biting, jumping, barking uncontrollably and not obeying commands. Once a dog ages from a puppy to an adult, it will become much harder to train. Aggression includes any behaviour that is meant to intimidate or harm another animal or person. Snarling, snapping, barking and growling are all examples of aggression.

Obedience training would have prevented many of these issues and can aid solve the bad conducts that may exist. Many people consider that obedience training is something that is done to a dog to make it perform some artificial activity on command. Obedience is a part of the cultural setting defined for your dog in your house. Obedience is about you having a relationship with your dog and the dog responding to you. It doesn't matter if the dog trainer can train your dog; what matters is that the dog responds to your instructions.

The method for training a dog is something we do with our dogs not to our dogs. Both you and your dog will enjoy the reward-based training methods you'll learn collectively. Dog training is definitely not rocket science and is easier than you would expect, particularly if you can get help from a good dog training book or guide. Maybe the most crucial point with dog training is to keep a level head.

Believe it or not, dog training is supposed to be an amusing work.

Dog training is vital to teach a dog what is acceptable and what is not. A dog that hasn't been given any instructions or limitations can't know what is to be expected of him. Both you and your dog will enjoy the reward-based training methods you will learn together.

Obedience is more than just directions - when taught correctly; it gets the common nomenclature between you and your dog. It changes your relationship from one of frustration, to one of harmony.

Have fun with your pet-friend!

About the Author
Before starting any dog training program, make sure you check Francisco Cabrera's articles regarding Dog training for all dogs breed and find expert dog references and resources.

Potty Training a Puppy: The Basics You Need to Know

by: RosanaHart
Are you potty training a puppy? The method is not hard to understand, but your patience will be needed! There are just four steps. The puppy needs to be with you. You need to take him to his pottying location at certain times. You need to clean up any accidents in a matter-of-fact way. Repeat these steps a lot and pretty soon, you'll be living with a potty trained puppy!

I'll discuss these four points:

1. Keeping your puppy with you as much of the time as possible gives you the best chance of catching him just before he starts to pee or poop. Even if you catch him in the act, it helps the potty training -- just say NO and take him to where you want him to do his stuff.

One way to keep your puppy with you is to attach his leash to a belt around your waist. That way, whatever you are doing around the house, you know right where your new best friend is. This method is excellent for bonding between you. Very young puppies really want to be right with you all the time anyway.

However you do it, stay close to your puppy. Crate training is also very useful for the times you can't be together. That is beyond the scope of this article but I discuss it at length on my website.

2. When you are potty training a puppy, you are helping him to understand that when he feels an urge to urinate or defecate, he should go to his specially designated place for these activities. How will he learn this? By your taking him there:

*** Every single time he wakes up, whether first thing in the morning or after a nap.

*** Every time he has a meal.

This means a lot of trips for you and the puppy over the course of a day. Also take him out shortly before you go to bed at night.

His pottying spot may be in your yard, or you may be walking him on leash. If you live in a place where it is hard to go outside fast, or if you have physical limitations that make it hard, then paper training is best.

3. When you wipe up any messes that he creates, don't grumble. The dog will not understand that he has done anything to displease you. People sometimes say that the puppy "looks guilty" but really his expression is more one of unhappiness because he can tell you are unhappy. Puppies take a lot less time to potty train than humans, so just be patient!

4. Repetition is a very important part of the potty training process, as dogs learn that way. So keep on doing each step, as often as you can.

There's lots more to say about potty training a puppy, but these tips will get you well on your way to a successfully trained dog!

About the Author
Want to know more about potty training a puppy? Visit Rosana Hart's dog training website, where she explains this method more fully.

The Constantly Barking Dog - How To Deal With Him

by: MikeRoberts

All dogs bark for any number of reasons. Occasionally these can be good reasons such as to warn of an intruder or to express fright or pain. Sometimes these can be "bad" reasons as far as humans are concerned - dogs attempting to sound menacing or simply to get attention fall into this category.

Although dogs bark for a number of reasons, a constantly barking dog is considered by dog owners and neighbors to be a nuisance and there may come a time when some extreme measures need to be employed to control a constantly barking dog.

By far the best method of controlling constant barking is to train the dog not to bark or, more specifically, to bark only at the appropriate times. There are several ways to accomplish this, but dog trainers usually agree that traditional reward and reprimand systems are the most effective and the kindest to use.

Some people may employ what is called a "bark collar" or a "shock collar" to attempt to control a constantly barking dog. These devices deliver a small shock to the dog when it barks and the idea is that the dog will associate a minor pain with his barking, becoming startled and eventually stop.

There are, however, some problems associated with the bark collar method. Some dogs will simply not associate the shock delivered by the collar with its barking, and will continue to bark anyway. Yet still, dogs with thick fur many not even feel the shock of the collar because the collar's metal contacts cannot directly touch the dogs skin. Eventually some dogs will get the message and stop barking, but most will still require some sort of reward/reprimand training to eventually control their barking.

Experts agree, it is not a good idea to use bark collars for a long period of time.

While these collars provide only a minor pain, most people would agree that the use of a bark collar would seem to be cruel to the dog. Use of a bark collar for short periods of time will not harm the dog.

Still another type of collar is called a citronella collar which emits a mist of citronella to the nose of the dog when the dog barks. Dogs hate the smell of citronella and many will soon associate the negative smell with their constant barking. Citronella collars have a similar success rate of the electronic kind, but are a bit less cruel.

Another method of controlling constant dog barking and by far the most inhumane is to have the dog undergo de-barking surgery. This procedure involves removing a bit a tissue around the larynx of the dog, rendering it unable to bark. The surgery doesn't always work and most vets will not recommend this extreme measure.

About the Author
For more information about Dog Training and other pet-related information be sure to visit this unique Pet Directory.

Lucky dog! Adrift pooch is plucked from Pacific isle

By SOLVEJ SCHOU, Associated Press Writer
LOS ANGELES - Snickers the Sea Dog is barely more than a pup, but he's already an old salt.
The 8-month-old pooch spent three months adrift in the Pacific with his owners and a parrot until their 48-foot sailboat ran aground in December on tiny Fanning Island, 1,000 miles south of Hawaii. Snickers and Gulliver had to be left behind as their owners hitched a ride on a cargo vessel.

Then in March, the SOS was sent out in a boating journal that the orphaned critters were to be destroyed on Fanning, one of 33 scattered coral atolls that make up the remote island nation of Kiribati.

As word spread, a bevy of people worked to rescue the cocker spaniel and the macaw, including a man who desperately wants to adopt them: retired Las Vegas resident Jack Joslin.

"I love animals," Joslin told The Associated Press on Friday. "I had two dogs up until the middle of March. Then I had to have my border collie euthanized. The day they called saying the ashes were back was when I read the story (about Snickers). It occurred to me I could do something."

On April 9, Norwegian Cruise Line workers rescued Snickers from Fanning and dropped him off on Oahu island, Hawaii, where he will remain in quarantine until he is flown to Los Angeles.

Hawaiian Airlines, moved by the dog's survival story, has given the go-ahead on flying the animal for free to the mainland, said Peter Forman, a Hawaii-based airlines historian who helped negotiate Snickers' transport.

Forman said he expects Snickers to arrive sometime in the next three days.

Snickers' original owners, Jerry and Darla Merrow, had set out from California's Moss Landing but their catamaran developed mast problems, said Gina Baurile of the Hawaiian Humane Society.

The boat drifted to the tiny atoll, where it hit a reef and the couple swam 200 yards to shore with Snickers and Gulliver.

Baurile said the pets were left in the care of islanders.

"They don't have the same concept of taking care of pets," Baurile said.

Efforts to contact the Merrows on Friday were unsuccessful. Joslin said he has been unable to contact the pair, and Baurile said she believes the Hawaiian Humane Society never tried to reach them.

"The Merrows got to the point where they had to move on with their lives," said Forman, who is friends with Robby and Lorraine Coleman, a couple with a sailboat off Fanning Island who originally talked to a boating journal about Snickers.

"The Merrows basically signed a release of ownership of the dog," Forman said.

Robby Coleman started watching out for the dog and parrot on the island, Forman said.

"Robby put out the SOS and a lot of people got involved," Forman said.

Contacted by Joslin, the Hawaiian Humane Society took the lead on Snickers rescue.

The organization worked with Norwegian Cruise Line, and a ship was sent out to Fanning Island to pick up the dog, said Norwegian Cruise Line spokeswoman Krislyn Hashimoto.

The Hawaiian Humane Society provided pet carriers, flea treatment and food, Baurile said.

The dog landed in Honolulu on Wednesday, cleared Customs and has been in quarantine since, awaiting transport to Los Angeles, Hashimoto said.

Getting the parrot off the island will be more difficult, said Joslin, who wants to adopt the animal.

There is a plan to move Gulliver to Christmas Island, near Fanning Island, and eventually to L.A., one of two U.S. ports that accept exotic birds.

"Snickers is going to live with me, I hope, for a long time," Joslin said. "And we're trying like hell to get the bird back here."

___

Associated Press writer Greg Small in Honolulu contributed to this report.

Selling Dog Houses: Becoming a Dog-Friendly Agent

By RE Writer
Being aware of dog-focused people can help a real estate agent in their quest to help their clients find the right home. Dog-dedicated people often have more money than the average person to focus on their pets and on their property, making them worth the time spent on researching the dog scene. Dog people tend to find one another at veterinary offices, dog parks and the local kennel club. If you are known as an agent who is sensitive to the needs of the dog owner, word-of-mouth is very likely to work in your favor in the dog world.

If a couple emphasizes their dog(s) when they are telling you about their ideal home, it might indicate that their purchase of a home may hinge on how well it will work for their canine companions. People who show or breed or are involved in dog competitions are often people who look at a house in terms of how well it will fit their dogs' needs.

Most dog people look for houses with a fenced yard for their dogs to play in. Ask your clients if they would consider building fences/kennels if there are none on the property. If they would be willing to do so, you may be able to show them properties that are unfenced.

Houses with "mud rooms" or "mud areas" where a person can dry off a wet/dirty dog after a walk are appreciated, especially by dog owners with furry or shaggy breeds. If your clients have senior dogs, make sure you emphasize any easily navigated entry's, exits and access to the yard. Other places to call attention to are recreation rooms that can be converted to grooming/training areas and small, out-of-the-way rooms that may be good choices for quiet whelping areas.

Some dog people consider their dogs as their children and some dog people don't, but it may help to consider your clients' dogs as such and ask yourself, "What amenities would these people be looking for if their dogs were kids?" Schools, stores that sell supplies and toys, places their kids can play and establishment where their (polite) kids are welcome.

Questions to consider are: What is the reputation and influence of the local kennel club? Are there other obedience schools in the area? What about grooming establishments? Pet supply stores? Are there walking trails nearby? Dog parks? Places where a dog can run off-lead without incurring a fine or disturb others? Are there cafes around that offer outdoor seating? You may want to take note of any establishment that offers free dog biscuits or sets out water bowls.

A new company that appeared on the scene in January of 2007 is banding pet-focused agents together. "The Pet Realty Network" is a company dedicated to connecting buyers with real estate agents who know their pets and what it takes to find a home that they will live happily in. The website is petrealtynetwork.com; certainly worth a try if you're looking to advertise yourself as a pro-pet agent.

For the dedicated dog owner, a real estate agent who knows local by-laws or is willing to research them is invaluable. If Pookie is a rottweiler or an American pit bull terrier, some neighborhoods can be less friendly, even if Pookie is an impeccably trained, always-under-control, good-tempered dog. Don't despair if there are by-laws that restrict the breed of dog your clients have; see if there are ways around the law; for example some communities will waive the breedist restriction if the owner has proof of temperament testing and/or obedience courses taken.

It helps if you are aware of the dog scene in the area your clients are considering. A working knowledge of the latest dog-related issues is also good, because it helps to know if your clients are considering an area known for its heart worm or if a rabies scare has been a headliner lately. Most dog-focused clients are aware of dog medical issues and can protect their dogs adequately, but they will appreciate your honesty and concern for their dog's well-being.

Boning up (har-de-har, I made a funny) on the dog scene can help you find a property that your dog-focused clients will be happy with. It can also make your services more valuable to people who have the time and money to focus on their pets. If you choose to branch out into other animal-friendly real estate (for example, horse-friendly properties and neighborhoods), you may find that your services will be in demand by people who need an agent who knows what to look for.

About the author:
Joe Pinto is one of the top-producing agents in the Chicago real estate industry. With over 10 years of experience, Joe brings professionalism and hard work to help you in the sale or purchase of Lincoln Park condos. For more information, visit Joe at ChicagoHomeEstates.com

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

All About Therapy Dogs

By:-Gerry Ronson
Therapy dogs help with many psychological issues and mental impairments. In this article you will learn a little about training as well as the type of breed you should have. There are many breeds that are suitable for this work however some should be avoided.

Dogs are great for many reasons. In most cases dogs are seen as wonderful pets and companions. There are police dogs, rescue dogs, and working dogs that will pull sleds or hunt. In recent years psychologists have been using dogs in therapy. It seems that a person with Down syndrome, mood disorders, and other psychological issues benefit greatly from owning or being around dogs. This has made a new job for some of the dog breeds out there.

If you are looking for a therapy dog or you know someone who is you will want to read a little further about the type of therapy dogs used and why they are beneficial. Most therapy dogs are going to shower individuals with plenty of attention and affection.

A good therapy dog will be very affectionate, intelligent, and easily trained. This type of dog will not display stubbornness or any behaviour that may be hinder in the benefits of therapy. Some of the breeds of therapy dogs include German Shepherds, cocker spaniels, pugs, cockapoos, and Yorkshire terriers. When you are looking for a therapy dog you want a type of dog that will want to either sit in your lap or sit near you and give plenty of support and affection.

What you need to realize with most therapy dogs is that they are very well natured. They tend to be extremely sensitive to voices as well. Raised voices and strong language can influence the dog in the wrong way just as it would a child with behaviour issues. This is one of the reasons why the breeds mentioned make such wonderful companions. They feel the emotions of the owner and can act accordingly.

You will find that with most therapy dogs the individual needs some type of support. They are looking for a companion that will offer the undivided attention and affection they need. With child who have Down syndrome they tend to relate to themselves and have a very hard time relating to humans. With dogs most individuals tend to see a difference in how outgoing the individual can become when they have a therapy dog.

Therapy dogs require the same amount of care as other dogs, so it is wise to have at least one individual that can provide the walks, nutrition, and other needs of the dog. Some individuals who need therapy dogs are able to provide this care. It will depend on the situation. You will also find that training is very important.

You want to make sure that the dog is trained properly for obedience as well as house training. You also want to make sure that the dog has been trained to be socialized as some of the breeds need to be adapted to others before they make great therapy dogs.

Therapy dogs are becoming more important for children with behaviour issues as well as those who have mental deficiencies. Anyone can purchase a dog for therapeutic reasons, just based on wanting unconditional love from at least one pet in their life.

You will find that some therapist offices will actually bring in a dog to introduce to their client to help during sessions to see if it helps them talk more. When choosing a therapy dog make sure that before you purchase the dog the person and the dog work well together. In some cases the dog may not attach itself to the right person.
Author Resource:- Gerry Ronson writes for the websites Dog Supplies and Hypnosis Downloads.
Article From Freebie Articles

All About The Dachshund Dog Breed

By : Gerry Ronson
The dachshund is one of the more affectionate dogs you can have in your home with children. When you are considering offering a home to this dog breed it is important that you understand the grooming, training, and care needed. You will find all the information you need to make a sound decision below.

The dachshund is a very small dog and often referred to as a Weiner dog because of their shape. The dachshund is a very sleek looking dog that rises about 5 to 9 inches off of the ground. A health dachshund should never be more than 20 pounds, most usually they are about 11 pounds. You will find this breed is typically cream, white, black, or tan. They can also be a mix of colours like black and tan. It will depend on what the parents looked like as to what colour they may be. You will find that the dachshund has floppy ears and a silk appearance to the coat. The coat or hair is going to be short and very easy to groom. In fact when you consider the care of these dogs you will find that they do not need to be groomed, but once a week to help remove any dead or loose hair they may be carrying around. They have a muscular body that offers a sleek look about them and their muzzle is generally narrow and long.

Dachshund dogs are usually very affectionate pets. You will find they do really well in families with little children as well with other types of pets. They are a loyal and intelligent breed that has often been used for hunting badgers, foxes, and otters. The dachshund can even be a good watchdog. They tend to bark a little more than some of the other dog breeds, but most usually on the approach of a stranger or car at the residence. You will find that the dachshund characteristics mean that they will be dominant unless it is trained out of them. The intelligence of this dog breed will allow its training to go rather easily once obedience has been seen too. During obedience they may be a little stubborn. They also need socialization training to make sure they do well around children and other pets. It is best to train this dog with a consistent, gentle, but firm hand. Most dogs are very sensitive so you should never be unduly harsh.

The proper care of a dachshund means that you give them the proper nutrition daily and offer a short walk on a daily basis. The dachshund, unless you prod it tends to be more of a docile creature. They can exhibit energy, but most often they will be content to sit at your feet and play with a toy every now and then. They do well in apartments for this very reason. If you have a backyard they will go out and play every once in a while. They tend to overeat, and the lack of exercise can make them over weight. It is important to set up a feeding regime with these dogs rather than leave the food out during the day. You should always give them plenty of water though. Some of the problems a dachshund can have include skin irritations, heart disease, and back issues. Since they are prone to back issues it is important that they do not jump a lot when they are playing. In other words you should never hold up a toy and have them jump three or four feet to try and get it.
Author Resource:- Gerry Ronson has been working with dogs for over 20 years and now works as a writer for the websites Dog Supplies and Buster Cube.
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Cool Critters Dog Strollers Going Online

By: Daniel Dan


The portable pet house is the newest in travel accessories for pets, and is a part of the expanding product line at Pet Stroller Mart. The pet house is made to easily fold up and pack away in a car or in the home. Its solid design is built to be used in parks, backyards, and any other situation as you travel. It is easy to clean, and constructed using material that is easy to take care of. The sound design is going to last a long time. The portable pet house comes in various colors, and best of all you can buy it and get free shipping within the contiguous 48 United States.

Pet Stroller Mart's future plans include enhancing its line of merchandise beyond pet strollers. We plan to offer products specific for dogs, cats, and other smaller pets or small critters. PetStrollerMart is committed to providing consumers cutting edge and original products that major pet stores may not carry. Be on the lookout for luxury pet beds, and even full pet bedroom sets, complete with clothes hangers so that you can hang up your pet's outfits. We at Pet Stroller Mart plan to continue expanding our merchandise line, and really hope that our customers are pleased with our products and what they buy.

PetStrollerMart offers pet owners the newest and largest variety of dog strollers and pet strollers available. We have got an amazing collection of new dog strollers that you're going to enjoy. Like previous collections, our new selection of dog strollers continue to attract customers' demands of pet safety and comfort, easy travel storage, and reliability. You will find that a lot of our customers use these strollers for puppies, guinea pigs and even ducks. Consumers who have weak or disabled pets find that products from PetStrollerMart are an excellent way to bring their pets along with them wherever they go.

Our new Jogger Pet Stroller is a perfect way for pet owners who are active to take their pets with them when they go running. It is reliable for all running and jogging situations and built for tougher terrains. Active adults can now exercise and spend good, quality time with their cat, dog, or other loving pet as they stay healthy and in shape. This pet stroller is equipped with bigger wheels for high speeds, and was developed to match the most advanced running abilities. Remember that joggers need to wear quality running shoes since shoes that are worn or old may cause back or leg issues.

The Central Park Pet Stroller is an excellent stroller that's bigger than our 4-Wheel Pink Pet Stroller. It's offered at a great price, and comes in brilliant colors with a neon stripe to make it easier to see on city streets. This dog stroller or cat stroller also comes with storage spots for pet treats and water. This is an excellent stroller to take your pet shopping in, or for a walk in the park. This pet stroller's wheels are durable, built to last, and are designed for smooth sidewalks as well as rough roads. Our cat and dog strollers will make excellent birthday or Christmas gifts.





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Dog crate beds offers a unique selection of dog beds, allowing you to make a selection that matches your pet’s personality. Choose from our selection of dog beds that you won’t see at your local major retail outlet. We specialize in hard to find dog beds that truly match your environment.

Great Tips For Getting Your Dog Toilet Trained

By :- Keith Jacobsen Sr.
It is possible to find and use diapers for house training a dog but that is merely an indication that you have not thought through the commitment that a dog demands and deserves. Giving your dog its due time and care is the first step in teaching the person how to teach the dog.


Being ready for the commitment

Picking out a dog is something that you need to put some time into. Dogs, and cats for that matter, are terrible Christmas gifts because they are generally given with that "oh… he's so cute" spur of the moment purchase mentality. Most people wouldn't run out and buy a car on the spur of the moment or even give a fish tank with several bags of fish as a gift because it takes time and costs a lot of money. Dogs are no different and even require more thought if the person-dog relationship is going to work out for the next 10-15 years. Take your time before settling for the dog that is right for you and your family. It will be the best decision, both for you and your family but most importantly for your dog.


A brave new world

Walking down the street of a big city and taking a look up at all the skyscrapers is an example of just how small you are and just how big the rest of the world is. This is one of the concepts that you need to understand as you begin getting your dog introduced into his new home. Even after you bring your new dog home you’ll need to continually understand that you are that skyscraper to your new dog. Even after he has grown to full size you are still just that big thing that gives scratches and food. Never hesitate to get down on the ground and roll around at his eye level for a bit. If you don’t you may find that your dog won’t really recognize you on the ground past your smell. Keeping your dog comfortable with all the new things that appear big in his new home will go along way toward making him feel relaxed and more willing to follow your and his new routine.


The morning routine

Scientists often say that the human’s morning routine of washing up, getting food and all those things we do just after we get up in the morning is one of the most powerful routines we have. If we don’t do it the same way each and every day, the day just doesn’t feel right for the rest of it. Dogs are the same way. The problem is, they don’t have anybody around to give them that routine in the morning and at night. Here is where the first signs of commitment come into play. You are the parent here and you don’t get Saturdays and Sundays off. In the first days/hours of bringing your new dog home choose a schedule that you are willing to keep for the next 1 ½ - 2 years. Ideally, you have already thought this through so you can start on night one of bringing him home, but if you haven’t do it right now.


Choices

With some dogs you may not have this choice and they will try to give it to you. But, if you can possibly get the dog to conform to your schedule early on it will be (A LOT) easier on you. If you wake up at 6am for work each morning this is when your dogs day starts as well. Until he is old enough to wait for you to eat and shower before the walk and poop/pee you do the routine the same way each and every day. You will find very quickly that dogs can tell time to the minute very quickly, especially where food is concerned. Feed first when they are young and take them out to poop and pee in the same place each day. They may not be ready to poop/pee on command so patients are critical. When the dog does poop/pee, in the right place give a sign of reward. A positive good job and a nice scratch should do. Never give more then a disapproving tone of voice to your dog. This accomplishes nothing. Always give the opportunity at the same times, as closely to the exact same times as possible at first. These times should be: breakfast, dinner and just before bed.


Night time

When they are young, dogs have little control over their body functions so be patient. A good idea to consider when you are not around or at night is a crate for the dog. A GOOD SIZED CRATE. In a sense it is like caging the animal, but in another it is not. As descendents of wolves dogs like and feel secure in caves. Quite a bit of the wolf still remains in the domesticated dog whether you actually see it or not. Make sure that it is a good sized crate with no solid sides. This will let them see everything outside of the crate. Put a sheet or decorative blanket on the top and slightly drooped over the top edges darkening it just a bit. Place it in a corner. This will act as the cave and tell them that it is their space. They will know this instinctively and quickly. At night it will protect your home and give you some free time during the day. When they turn into responsible citizen dogs take it apart and put it away.
Author Resource:- Keith Jacobsen is an expert promoter of free trade leads for trade sites like fuzing.com where you can uncover numerous leads for Cat Food Sellers.
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Dog Training: Ten Tips For Educating Your Dog Before The Arrival Of The New Baby

By :- Dr. Mayra
It is a proven thing that parents to be are too often overwhelm with the arrival of their new baby, that they forget about taking care of their dog. From the dog stand, there is a new human in the house that's making lots of new, unfamiliar noises. From the parents stand point, the dog comes last now because they have to take care of their baby, which is understandable. That's why it's extremely important that the future parents take time prior to the baby's arrival to train their dog on how to behave with and around the new baby.

Below are 10 valuable tips that every dog owner that is expecting a new child want to know. These suggestions will assist in the introduction of the dog to the brand-new baby to be smooth and trouble free, diminishing the related stress that this situation can carry.

1. Make certain that your dog is up to day with all his vaccinations and that he's in good health by taking him to the veterinarian before the arrival of the baby.

2. Ask the vet for any tips that he could give you regarding what would be the best method to introduce the dog to the baby.

3. If your dog hasn't been neutered or spayed, you could seriously consider doing so.

4. If your dog has behavioral issues, it would comprise a good idea to begin a dog training program or take the dog to a dog trainer to address those issues. It's better to attend of these behavioral issues earlier on, particularly prior to the baby's arrival.

5. If your dog is used to to climb on people it's in your most beneficial interest to stop this behavior immediately. You'll need to train your dog to stop jumping on people, this will preclude the dog to climb on the baby in the near future.

6. Clip your dogs nails.

7. If your dog has the bad habit of nipping on people you want to train your dog to break off from this behavior.

8. If you have friends or household members that have kids, ask them over and observe how they dog interacts with these children.

9. Train your dog to become acquainted the children toys by positioning a few baby toys on the floor, and train the dog to leave the toys alone. Make certain you don't use these same toys for the baby in the future.

10. Get an audio tape with baby's noise and play it for your dog therefore it will help your dog to become familiar with the sounds.

These tips might appear really simple, but if the parents to be, take them seriously and take the time to train their dog prior to the baby's arrival, they will be glad they did because having a well trained dog around the new baby will make a huge difference between been relaxed when the dog is around the baby or been stressed out.
Author Resource:- Increase the happy years of your dog by checking out my free e-book. In it I reveal all the secrets I've used to develop a happy, healthier dog. Visit Dr. Alfonso's http://www.cooldoghalloffame.com/dog-training/dog-training-10-tips-for-preparing-your-dog-for-the-arrival-of-the-new-baby/ dog training blog right now…
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Dog Training Tips That Work Best For Smart Dogs

By: Nick Clipton


Hand Signals On Dog Obedience Training

People are hooked on taking care of pets these days as they can be considered as one of the most valued possessions of a person. In choosing a pet, we have a variety of choices but dogs are more preferred. One reason for this is the ability of dogs to understand and follow commands from their owners. If given proper training, a dog can understand both verbal and sign commands. However, they tend to learn hand signals easier than words because dogs are very observant of body language.

Since we don’t have an official hand signals on dog obedience training we practice commonly used basic commands and these are the heel, sit, stay, down and come. Through hand signals, you can teach your dog to sit by starting with your arm at your side. You can then move your hands toward your chest, facing your palm upward. This is ideal if you’re inches away from your pet, otherwise try to grab your pet’s collar and gently push its rear into a sitting position.

Teach your dog to heel with your arms coming down in front of your dog with your palm extended forward. You can then command your pet to stay by slowly extending your arm and hand straight down with palm flat landing right next to your pet’s nose without contact. If your dog tries to sniff your hand, you can try to stop your dog in a gentle way. If you want your dog to lay down with its stomach on the floor and its feet in front, do this with your hand open flat, palm facing down and parallel to the floor, with arm bent at the elbow in a downward sweeping motion. Lastly, you can also teach your pet to come near you with your elbow bent and arms outstretched then move your arm to your chest.

It is advisable to combine verbal command with hand signals to enhance your pet’s knowledge about it. They will soon respond to either verbal or hand signal once they learn to relate your hand signal with the desired action. If that happens, it would be easy for the owner to command his or her pet in any way the pet understands. Bear in mind that if you want your pet to impress you then help them enjoy the dog obedience training by giving your pet a treat or some praise that will inspire him to do a good work. If your dog willfully disobeys you, physical punishment is a no-no as there are positive punishments available to increase your pet’s good behavior.

Another 7 proven steps to train any dog .Every dog owner should have this list:

1. Know The Breed of Your Dog

This can be important in some cases because certain dogs are easier to train then others. Just keep this in mind. It won't affect the training too much.

2. Determine How Much Money You Have Available To Spend

This is important because you can easily waste money with certain dog training methods. Hiring a personal trainer for example can cost $75 an hour. That is a bit much.

3. Prepare Your Dog For Training

This means that your dog should be used to being around you. The dog should not be afraid of you.

4. Choose A Location In Your Home To Train

This can be outside or inside. It can be in any room. This is done so that whenever your dog enters this room, it will know that it is training time and that it should follow your commands. This made it easier to train my dog .

5. Setup A Time To Train

When training your dog , it is bad to have interruptions. These will distract you and your dog , which is why it is best to dedicate a certain amount of time each day to training .

6. Setup The Training Area

Now that you have chosen a place to train you must also organize the area. Do not leave anything out that you wouldn't want to break or damage. Also, remove any sort of rug just in case your dog needs to urinate.

7. Begin Training

Everything is ready. Now all you need to do is begin training .

There is and easy way to discover a proven training method for your dog . The Sit Stay Fetch Dog Training Guide is a guide created by dog training experts, that teaches dog owners how to train their dog .

If your dog succeeds in doing these basic hand signals on dog obedience training then your pet is much ready for the advance one. You can try enrolling your pet to learn more of these, though you can also do this yourself for you to have a great bonding with your pet. Equip yourself with lots of information in training your dog by reading books, searching the web or seeking advice from experienced dog owners and trainers.



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If you would like to get rid of the problem of how to train your dog then just simply visit our site dog aggression.There are lots of people who visit our site and get rid of this problem.

What To Do If Your Dog Is Shoking

By :- Dr. Mayra
We all recognize that dogs occasionally suffer from the bad habit of taking everything they get hold to in their mouths, that includes electric cords, parts of broken toys, tennis balls, etc. Additional things that they are inclined to pick up all form of stones or rocks, small-scale toys to clothes, in essence anything they view as fun to play with. For some reason, dogs always appear to find a method to put physical objects inside their mouth that don't belong there!

Regrettably, there are a lot of occasions when a dog incidentally swallows these objects and it gets stuck in his throat. A late instance of this was Oprah's Golden Retriever, who choke on a toy that belonged to one of her other dogs, a Cocker Spaniel, which is a smaller dog. Regrettably, Oprah's dog wasn't equally lucky as other dogs that have survived this situation.

When a dog is choking, whenever the physical object isn't removed at once, there exists the probability that the animal will cease breathing and will go unconscious.

This situation is more common with dogs, than the majority of people are aware of. Consequently I'd behoove of you to learn the basic acts that it takes to aid your dog from choking. This can invariably preserve the life of your loved pet.

Have a look below at the basic First Aid steps which could come in handy in a case of a dog that is choking:

If Your Dog Is Choking, But Remains Conscious

1. With two hands, loose your dog's mouth and look inside to see if you are able to see the physical object. If you are able to view it, try your best to remove it.

2. If you can't visualize the object, position your dog on its side and elevate the hindquarters.

3. Right away position your hand below the rib cage and your other hand on the dog's back. Press in and then up, altogether in one flowing motion. Continue applying pressure until the object is coughed out.

4. If the object doesn't come up, your dog might become unconscious. If this occurs, then perform the steps below.

If Your Dog Becomes Unconscious

1. As declared above, make certain that the dog is positioned on his side with elevated hindquarters.

2. Open up the airway and make certain that the tongue is pulled out as far as possible and placed to the side.

3. Then perform several compressions in the same region that you had attempted to press in the rib cage. After two to three compressions, check the mouth looking for any alien physical objects by using the sweep of your finger.

4. Now give the dog a few breaths.

5. Repeat this cycle of compressions, finger sweeps, and artificial respiration breaths until your dog begins breathing by himself and displaces the object.

If none of this works, and your dog is still having troubles or is unconscious, please don't pause to race him or her to the vet. A couple of minutes, or even seconds could constitute the difference between having your dog dead or alive.
Author Resource:- Increase the happy years of your dog by checking out my free e-book. In it I reveal all the secrets I've used to develop a happy, healthier dog. Visit Dr. Alfonso's http://www.cooldoghalloffame.com/dog-health/how-to-save-your-choking-dog/844 dog training blog right now…
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Know The Design Of Dog Strollers

By: Daniel Dan


Our new Jogger Pet Stroller is a great way for pet owners who are active to take their pets along with them when they're running. The stroller is reliable for all running and jogging situations and made just for difficult terrains. Active adults can now go running while they spend some quality time with their kitten, puppy, or other pet as they stay healthy and in shape. This pet stroller comes with bigger wheels for high speeds, and was built to suit even the most advanced runners. Remember that joggers need to wear high quality running shoes since shoes that are old and worn can potentially cause leg and back issues.

Pet Stroller Mart's plans in the future include broadening its line of products well beyond pet strollers. We're planning to have products that are specific to cats, dogs, and small pets or small creatures. Pet Stroller Mart is completely dedicated to providing customers innovative and cutting edge merchandise that the larger retailers and pet stores won't carry. Watch for luxury pet beds, and even full pet bedroom sets, with hangers so that you can hang your pet's outfits. At PetStrollerMart, we plan to continue to expand our product line, and truly hope that visitors to our site will be happy with what they buy and our offerings.

Pet Stroller Mart provides pet owners with the largest and newest assortment of dog strollers and pet strollers on the market. We have an amazing assortment of new dog strollers that you and your pet are sure to enjoy. Our newest dog stroller collection continues to attract consumers' demands of easy travel storage, pet comfort, and reliability. You'll find that a lot of our customers also use these strollers for puppies, ducks and even guinea pigs. Customers who have hurt or disabled animals discover that Pet Stroller Mart Products are a fantastic way to bring their pets with them everywhere they go.

Our Central Park Pet Stroller is an excellent stroller that's larger than our 4-Wheel Pink Pet Stroller. It's offered at a great price, and can be found in vivid colors with a neon stripe that will make it far easier to spot on city streets. This dog stroller or cat stroller comes with storage spots for pet treats and water. This is a wonderful stroller for a walk in the park, or to go shopping with your pet. This stroller's wheels are built to last, and are designed for smooth sidewalks as well as bumpy roads. Our pet strollers also make great birthday or Christmas presents.

Portable pet houses are the newest in pet travel accessories, and are part of the expanding line of products at Pet Stroller Mart. The pet house is designed to be folded easily and stored in a car or at home. Its well-made design is built just to be used in backyards, public parks, and any other environment as you are traveling. It's also washable, and constructed out of fabric that is easy to take care of. This design is built to last. The portable pet house comes in an assortment of colors, and best of all when you buy it you'll get free shipping within the lower 48 United States.



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Dog crate beds offers a unique selection of dog beds, allowing you to make a selection that matches your pet’s personality. Choose from our selection of dog beds that you won’t see at your local major retail outlet. We specialize in hard to find dog beds that truly match your environment.

Is Dog And Cat Health Insurance Really As Stupid As It Sounds

by Craig
Protecting the one's you love is very important, no one knows what's going to happen in the future. This is particulary true for a pet.
You can insure your house, your car, your boat, and your life, and now, thanks to dog and cat health insurance, Fluffy and Fido can have their own protection, too. But what exactly is it, and is it really as stupid as it sounds? Maybe not. In fact, it could be quite sensible; read on.

This form of insurance isn't about paying you money if the pet dies; it's about giving the pet (or, more realistically, the person taking care of the animal) some money should you die. This option is particularly favored among the elderly, people who are fond of their pets, and know that there is a good chance that their animal will outlive them.

In essence, you pay a certain amount of money monthly to a trust, and, should you die before your animal does, the trust will then pay a certain amount of money monthly to the person designated your pet's guardian in your will. This is an especially desirable option if you already know who you want to look after your pet should you die--someone both you and your pet like--but you're concerned that they not be saddled with the cost of caring for your pet. This can be a wise investment choice for both you and Fluffy or Fido.

But dog and cat health insurance must be handled carefully. Don't purchase it and then start looking for someone to manage the money and care for your pet when you're gone; greed may cause your animal to get the rotten end of the stick. Instead, find someone you trust. Discuss the possibility of their taking care of your pet when you die. If it's someone you feel comfortable with, and someone your pet seems to genuinely like, then you may wish to let them know that you've purchased pet insurance to help with the costs of pet care after you're gone. Before that, however, it's never a good idea.

A similar idea, with similar problems, is a pet trust, where a certain amount of money is put into a special savings account, with the interest going to help pay for pet care after your death. The same problems exist here as with insurance--namely, finding someone you can trust to care for the pet--but there are some significant differences. For instance, with a trust, a large lump sum is generally required to start the trust, with the option of adding to it later on; with insurance, you make monthly payments.

Over time they can add up to more than the trust would cost, but the money is spread out. Plus, depending on the interest rate you've gone with, you can have to come up with quite a large sum of money to begin with, just to make those cat food payments. With insurance, you're guaranteed the amount you signed up for, no matter what.

But, in the end, it isn't as much about trust funds versus dog and cat health insurance as it is setting aside a little something ensure that your best friend isn't forgotten after you're gone.
ArticleSource: ArticlesAlley.com

Craig Thornburrow is an acknowledged expert in his field. You can get more free advice on pet insurance and pet medical insurance at http://www.petinsurancegroup.com