Pets

Most families have a first aid kit in their car and another at home. It is important because you never know when someone will cut a finger, bump their head or come down with a fever. Likewise most people would consider their dog as an important, loved member of the family. But what is in the human first aid kit could be of little use when your dog needs help. People medicines can even be deadly.

A portable Canine First Aid Kit is an important tool for all dog owners. And as your dog matures, it becomes essential. A well-stocked and organized box with supplies will be invaluable if your pet needs immediate care and may save you from having to make a trip to the vet. It could even save your dog’s life.

Remember that when giving a dog first aid, they are in pain and do not always understand that you are trying to assist them. Even if your pet has a great temperament and has never bitten anyone, you should put on a muzzle before trying to give first aid.

20 Essentials of a CANINE First Aid Kit

(And common uses for the items.)

1. Rubbing Alcohol (Tick and thorn removal.)

2. Antiseptic Lotion (Clean out cuts or scratches.)

3. Antibacterial Ointment (Prevent infection.)

4. Bandages or Rolled Gauze (Temporarily binding of wounds.)

5. Cotton Swabs (Remove debris from cuts. Antiseptic Application. Ear cleaning.)

6. Elizabethan Collar (Prevent dog from chewing bandages and licking wounds)

7. Non-sticking Adhesive Plaster (Apply to wound to keep dressing in place.)

8. Eye Wash (Wash debris from eyes.)

9. Rectal Thermometer and Petroleum Jelly (Take Temperature*.)

10. Muzzle (Prevent biting when treating the dog.)

11. Kaolin Pectate/Milk of Magnesia (Treat diarrhea.)

12. Top Quality Nail Clippers (Trim nails.)

13. Tweezers with rounded ends (Remove thorns or debris from wounds.)

14. Thermal or Regular Blanket (Maintain body temperature.)

15. Styptic pencil, cotton wool and gauze (Stop blood flow.)

16. Scissors (Trim hair near wounds.)

17. Flashlight (See in ears, throat etc.)

18. Eyedropper (Administer medications.)

19. Strong Packing Tape and pieces of wood or stiff cardboard (For Splints)

20. Towels–Paper and Regular (Stopping blood, drying etc.)

21. Veterinarian’s Phone Number/Emergency Number

It is also a good idea to ask your veterinarian for any recommendations on medications that should be kept on hand for emergencies.

*Normal Canine Temperature is 101-102.5 degrees Fahrenheit (38.3-39.2 degrees Celsius)

Copyright 2006 Dave Eckholm/Old Dog Paws

Unfortunately, eliminating problem behaviors is one thing that most dog owners eventually face. This article will focus on a few of the most commonly encountered behavior problems.

Problem #1 – Jumping up on people

One of the most frequently cited problems with dogs is that of jumping up on people. Unfortunately, this is one of those behaviors that is often inadvertently encouraged by well meaning owners. After all, it is cute and adorable when that little 3 pound shih tzu puppy jumps up on you, your family members and your friends. Many people reward this behavior on the part of a small shih tzu puppy with kisses and treats.

This is a huge mistake, however, since that cute little shih tzu puppy may soon become a full grown shih tzu dog. Suddenly that cute jumping behavior is no longer quite so cute.

In addition to being annoying, jumping up on people can be dangerous as well. A large, heavy dog, jumping enthusiastically, can easily knock over a child or an older or handicapped adult. In today’s litigious society, such an incident could easily make you, as the shih tzu dog’s owner, the subject of an unwanted lawsuit.

The time to teach a shih tzu dog that jumping up on people is unacceptable is when he is still young and easy to handle. Retraining a shih tzu dog that has been allowed to jump up on people can be difficult for the owner, and confusing for the shih tzu dog.

When the shih tzu puppy tries to jump on you or another member of your family, gently but firmly place the shih tzu puppy’s feet back on the floor. After the shih tzu puppy is standing firmly on the floor, be sure to reward and praise him.

It is important for every member of the family, as well as frequently visiting friends, to understand this rule and follow it religiously. If one member of the family reprimands the shih tzu dog for jumping and another praises him, the shih tzu dog will be understandably confused. As with other dog training issues, consistency is the key to teaching the dog that jumping is always inappropriate.

When praising and rewarding the shih tzu dog for staying down, it is important for the trainer to get down on the shih tzu’s level. Giving affection and praise at eye level with the shih tzu puppy is a great way to reinforce the lesson.

Problem #2 – Pulling and tugging at the leash

Pulling on the leash is another problem trait that many shih tzu puppies pick up. Unfortunately, this behavior is also one that is sometimes encouraged by well meaning owners. Playing games like tug of war with the leash, or even with a rope (that can look like the leash to the dog) can unwittingly encourage a problem behavior.

The use of a quality body harness can be a big help when training a puppy not to pull, or retraining a shih tzu dog that has picked up the habit of pulling on the leash. Try training the shih tzu puppy to accept the body harness the same way it accepts the regular buckle collar.

When walking with your shih tzu dog, try using a lure or toy to encourage the shih tzu dog to remain at your side. A training collar, when properly used, can also be a good training tool for a problem dog. When using a training collar or choke chain, however, it is very important to fit it correctly, and to use a size that is neither too big nor too small for your shih tzu dog.

When walking with your shih tzu puppy, it is important to keep the leash loose at all times. If the shih tzu puppy begins to pull ahead, the handler should quickly change directions so that the shih tzu puppy fast finds itself falling behind. It is important to reverse directions before the shih tzu puppy has reached the end of the leash. The leash should stay loose except for the split second it takes the handler to reverse direction. It is important to use a quick tug, followed by an immediate slackening of the leash.

When training a shih tzu puppy, it is important to never let the shih tzu puppy pull you around. Training the shih tzu puppy to walk properly while he or she is still small enough to handle.

It is important not to yank or pull on the shih tzu puppy’s neck when correcting him. A gentle, steady pressure will work much better than a hard yank. The best strategy is to use the least amount of pressure possible to achieve the desired result.

Several challenges face owners of big dogs. Beside the most noticeable things such as endless appetites and the grand yards they require, owning a big dog has some hidden difficulties as well. From vet bills and airfares, to the things they break, large breed dogs bring large breed problems.

Apartments Typically Don’t Allow Large Dogs

You almost have to be a home owner to have a large breed dog. Most apartments have strict limits to the size of your pet – sometimes by height but more commonly by weight. Leasing agreements usually state that dogs no more than 20 lb and some times up to 40 lb are allowed to share residence with you. Renters with large breed dogs frequently end up in more exclusive apartments where others in similar situations also find refuge, or end up looking into homes to rent.

Higher Veterinary Bills

When large dogs find themselves in need of medical attention, owners find they dig deeper into their pocket – particularly when anesthesia and medication are involved. Most Vets charge by the weight of the dog, so more anesthesia is needed to keep a dog safely asleep.

Costly to Travel With

Large breed dogs are rarely seen in the cabin of a commercial airliner – that’s because they’re stuck back in cargo. And cargo isn’t cheap. While small dogs usually get a free ride if they can fit under the seat, larger dogs can expect to pay more than $200. While most airline cargo is a safe way for a dog to fly, it is never easy for the dog and likely just as hard on the owner.

Nothing Fits

Some giant breed dogs like Newfoundland’s and St. Bernard’s can be difficult to shop for. One can’t always walk into the local Pets Mart and expect to find a collar large enough for their companion’s neck. Often times, you’ll find yourself purchasing extra links, or going online for special orders.

Bigger Mistakes

When a giant breed steps on you and you’re barefoot, you’re going to scream! If he gets your remote, he’s going to total it. All dogs make mistakes, but when a large breed makes a mistake, they almost always have larger consequences - they either hurt more, or cost more.

He’s So Scary

Be prepared for a certain stigma associated with big dogs. He or she could be the must lovable huggable animal on the planet but people will still be skeptical. Simply walking your dog down the sidewalk can cause everyday neighbors to fear you and your dog.

Just Simply Not Welcome

Try walking your Great Dane or Mastiff into a fine restaurant in California. Doesn’t happen. If anything, you’re stuck on the deck eating your meal while suffering the weather with your dog. Need to spend a day shopping? Even though you’ll find little fluffy dogs hanging out of purses and shopping baskets, you won’t be welcome with your beast. Life just isn’t fair for the big dogs.

Big Dogs always seem to present big challenges, but for those who own them its worth it, as there is just more to love. Jaime Campbell, co-owner of Big Paws Only (www.bigpawsonly.com), a large and giant breed dog community online, agrees, “You can tell how big a person’s heart is by the size of their dog!” Big Paws Only was built with this in mind, exclusively so large breed dog lovers from all over the world could connet, interact, share and learn. BigPawsOnly.com also offers exclusive large breed merchandise that can be hard to find, a Doggy Date Social Calendar, Paw Prints and a Large Breed Online Encyclopedia.

For more information, visit www.bigpawsonly.com

Contact:

Michael Campbell

Big Paws Only

You have purchased your Chihuahua puppy and now preparing to bring it home. You want your new family member to feel comfortable in its new home and you want your home to survive this new family member. How should you prepare?

First of all decide which part of your home will be off-limits. It will be better for your new Chihuahua to allow freer reign as he ages rather than to suddenly no longer allow him where he once could go.

Chihuahuas seem to like to perch on high places while surveying its surroundings. A Chihuahua can be severely injured jumping off high places. As a general rule if they can’t jump up to a place by themselves, they shouldn’t jump down from that place. You can make a ramp that leads to favorite lookouts or nesting spots.

You need to prepare for a new Chihuahua puppy just as you need to prepare for a new baby, with some changes of course. Furnish your home with Chihuahua “stuff” as the next step toward making your house his home. Some sources for supplies are large pet stores, dog shows, discount pet catalogs and the internet.

Toys

Fleece-type toys, balls, stuffed animals…..make sure no part of the toy including squeakers or plastic eyes can be pulled out or swallowed.

Chew bones

A chew bone is the equivalent of a teething ring for babies.

Food and water bowls

Avoid plastic, which can cause allergic reactions in some dogs. The best food dishes are stainless steel and for water, use a water bottle.

Food

Start with the same food the pup is currently eating. If you change his food, do this gradually.

Soft buckle collar

A cat collar may work better for Chihuahua puppies.

Lightweight leash

An adjustable show lead is good for puppies.

Grooming

Soft brush

Clothes

According to your climate, you may need sweaters, coats or fleece t-shirts. Purchase stylish lightweight shirts for warmer climates.

Accessories

Chihuahuas look nice in necklaces pearl or jewels with fancy charms. Experiment with different looks and have fun with the accessories you choose to compliment your Chihuahua’s clothes.

As a professional dog trainer, people often ask me what dog toys I recommend they should buy and which ones I use for my own dogs.

Here’s the answer: Your dog doesn’t need more than two toys. Rotate them, so he doesn’t get bored. But remember: We’re talking about an animal that eats the same food, day in/day out. And while your dog needs mental stimulation in the form of play and obedience training, they will be perfectly happy with chewing on the same toys, for years.

(Much the same way young children can watch the same Barney movie 100 times without getting bored!)

So… what are the two best dog toys in my opinion?

- The Kong. Either in red or black. (Sometimes you need to play with your dog and this toy a bit, before your dog gets interested in it… but once they do… LOOK OUT. The benefit of this toy is that they can chew on it for months and months, in most cases. You can also stuff it with doggie treats, cream cheese, peanut butter or whatever.

- The rope toy. This is usually sold in either white or multi-strand colors. It is a thick piece of soft rope, tied in a knot on each end. Another great toy because—compared to the rawhide bone—this toy will last weeks or months.

A good way to begin finding the “perfect puppy” is to decide what kind of dog you want. Think about what type of dog would be suitable for you and your family. A large dog? Medium? Small?

What type of temperament would you like in your dog? Enthusiastic and exuberant all the time? More independent and aloof? Something in between these two types?

What about hair length? Shorthaired dogs? Longhaired dogs? A quick tip: longhaired dogs require regular grooming and can be high maintenance.

Another thing to consider is that different dog breeds have genetic health issues.

Larger dogs are susceptible to hip dysplasia. This is a degenerative disease that affects the hip joint. When a dog with hip dysplasia matures, the hip joint and socket can no longer bear the animal’s body weight. The dog will have a difficult time running, walking or even standing. The only cure for this condition is surgery.

Smaller breeds of dogs have genetic concerns of their own. Dogs that are in the “toy” breed category, such as the Pug, the Pekingese and Lhasa Apso, are prone to breathing problems. These dogs have a short muzzle (or nose), which affects sinus and nasal development. Breathing problems are oftentimes not evident in a puppy. They become apparent only as the dog matures.

Once you decide what type of dog you think you want, find people who own that kind of dog. Go to the pet store and talk to the people there. Buy some books and magazines about the dog breed you like.

Do research on the Internet about the kind of dog you are considering. There are forums online about most types of dogs where you will get all the information you want from pet owners. People love to talk about their pets!

All this background work is important to become an educated consumer BEFORE you buy your dog from a breeder.

Now you are ready to find a reputable dog breeder. What should you look for in a dog breeder?

Honest dog breeders will be more than happy to answer every question you may have about their dogs.

Good breeders care about the dog’s environment. Note if the dog breeder’s facilities are clean? Are the puppies well cared for? What type of puppy food do they use? Have the puppies had their shots? Breeders should provide a complete record of the pup’s healthcare since birth.

Beware of breeders who are interested only in making money. They generally don’t pay much attention to their dog’s emotional needs and health concerns. This type of non-caring breeder profoundly affects the kind of dogs puppies will become. A puppy-mill environment only means trouble.

If you have doubts about a breeder you are thinking of doing business with, ask around at rescue groups or animal shelters about the breeder’s reputation.

Reputable breeders love their animals and go to great lengths to provide a proper environment and healthcare for their puppies. Puppies are products of their surroundings. A good, clean and caring environment will assure a happy, healthy pup.

Doing your homework first will go a long way towards finding that perfect puppy!

The time has come. You have stopped by the pet shop every day on the way home from work to dote on the cute puppies in the window. Normally you return home with the thoughts of a cute puppy scampering down your hallways. Well, today you did it. You decided to purchase your very own puppy. However, before you bring your puppy home you need to be prepared. You need to purchase various dog supplies so that you can provide a welcoming home to your new dog.

What types of dog supplies do you need? There is a bounty of dog supplies available on the market today. The dog supplies range from basic necessities such as dog food to cute dog costumes. Dog supplies have become such a hot market today that numerous pet supply companies have popped up to meet any needs you have for dog supplies. This competition in the market place is a benefit to you because often times you can find great prices on dog supplies by doing a little market research.

Let’s first take a look at the basic dog supplies that you will want to have when your pooch arrives home. Basic dog supplies include: dog food, dog bowls, collar, leash, kennel/crate, and dog bed. Dog food is number one on the list because you shouldn’t feed your canine table scraps or your own dinner. You can place their food in regular bowls, but it is fun to search for a cute dog bowl. You can find dog bowls that even have their name on it.

Dogs have specific nutritional needs to need to be met so they grow up strong and have a healthy life. Proper dog supplies include the dog food that is geared towards their age, weight/size, and activity level. It is vital to maintain the proper weight for your dog’s size and breed. Table scraps and human food can lead to excess weight that is a detriment to your dog’s overall health. Not to mention they might have some unsightly waste products as a result of the human food.

When searching for dog food from your dog supplies list it is crucial that you find the right dog food. Check with a veterinarian, breeder, or dog shop owner for recommendations on the proper food. Dogs also will become used to their specific brand and type of dog food and if you suddenly change it they may suffer from upset stomach. Since they will be on the dog food for a long time it is a great idea to spend time finding the proper dog food for your pooch.

A dog collar and a dog leash should be next on your list of dog supplies. Many states require that you register your pet with the state. In addition you may need to demonstrate that your dog has had the required vaccines, such as rabies shots, and they must wear a tag on their collar regarding this. Also create a dog tag that has your dog’s name on it, your name, and phone number in case your dog ever gets lost.

Most cities require that your dog be on a leash through various leash laws. Keeping your dog on a leash is a smart idea especially when you head out to parks or walk along the road. You don’t want your pooch to bother other people or run out in front of an oncoming car. These scary situations can be avoided by using a leash to control your dog’s movement. Leashes are also a training tool which you can use to teach your dog the proper behavior for their daily walk.

Dog supplies have improved over the years especially regarding different types of leashes. Does your dog constantly pull away from you on the leash causing them to cough? If so, you can buy a least that doesn’t connect to just their collar, but is instead a harness that wraps around their entire body. You slip their legs through it. This type of leash can be much more comfortable for your dog, so consider it when looking for dog supplies.

If you leave your dog outside at all, whether you are home or not, you need to make sure that your dog is in a secure area. Therefore, you can keep them on a leash that is connected to a runner cord so they have a great area to run. Or you can provide a fenced in area for them to play in. Special things to note when looking for these types of dog supplies is that the leash should be a chest harness leash because you don’t want the dog to constantly run after passersbys and hurt their throat. If you have a fence then make sure that it is in line with your dog’s jumping ability. You don’t want your dog jumping over the fence the second you turn your head.

Next on your dog supplies list should be a dog kennel/crate and/or dog bed. Your dog needs a place they can call their own in your home. A dog kennel/crate helps a dog to feel safe, especially when you are gone. Refrain from using the dog kennel as a discipline retreat. You want them to look forward to their own space in your home.

These are the basic dog supplies you need to purchase before you pick up your new pooch. Later on, you can spend hours finding fun toys, dog chews, and dog costumes for your new best canine friend.

Popularly know as BARF diet for bones and raw food or biologically adequate raw food diet, the natural raw feeding diet has been drawing increasing interest in the cat lover community.

One of the many people that support a raw feeding diet is Richard Pitcairn, DVM, PhD, author of “Dr. Pitcairn’s Complete Guide to the Natural Health for Dogs and Cats,” Rodale Press. He states that a cat’s health is improved by feeding a raw diet and that many of his clients have been feeding their cats raw meat successfully for many years.

When you are deciding what type of meat to feed your cat, Dr. Pitcairn suggests meats that can be easily found and prepare; many of his recipes use ground lean meat because it is high in protein but low in fat. In preparing the meat, Dr. Pitcairn says that 1 pound of ground meat equals roughly 2 cups. He warns that you should not feed raw rabbit, fish or pork as they can carry particular parasites.

Some of the meat type that he recommends as interchangeable are: turkey or giblets; chicken or giblets; beef, chicken or turkey liver; mackerel; tuna; beef, chick or turkey hearts; lean ground beef; duck, among others. Dr. Pitcairn recommends a varied diet and using more than one kind of meat in each meal.

On the other hand, a strong supporter for homemade food, Ann Martin, author of “Food Pets Die For,” New Sage Press, does not favor the raw food diet. The main concerns of a raw diet are bacterial and chemical contamination.

Citing the research of Jeff Bender and Ashley Robinson, veterinarians at the Department of Clinical and Population Sciences at the University of Minnesota, about an epidemic of food poisoning in a cattery. The food poisoning was caused by Salmonella that was thought to be traced to the 4-D meat (dead, diseased, dying or debilitated) in cat food. She is against feeding a raw food diet because of the potential for bacterial poisonings such as this and notes that these bacteria can also be found in meat intended for human consumption. Freezing the meat, she explains, destroys some but not all bacteria.

While Dr. Pitcairn disagrees and says that in over 17 years of practice, he has not seen any food poisoning in raw diets used by his clients. He comments that though it is not impossible that a pet may become ill, he believes they are less vulnerable. However, he leaves it up to the cat owner and suggests that if you do not feel comfortable feeding raw food, do cook it but realize that some of the nutrients will be lost.

Currently, there are still little substantiate results to support or go against raw feeding, and like what Dr. Pitcairn suggested, it’s totally up to the cat owner. As a cat owner who is truly concern about your cat’s health, you can try raw feeding and observe your cat’s response. You can then judge and decided for yourself if raw feeding is suitable for your cat.

To most breeders and pet lovers out there, the African Gray parrot has got to be one of the most charming parrots out there. Known for its wonderful character, the African Gray parrot is also one of the most preferred species for possessing an admirable combination of high intelligence and extraordinary charm.

If you are one of those who were instantly drawn to the beauty of African Gray parrot, it is a must that you supply yourself with enough information about these wonderful birds.

According to taxonomy, there are basically two subspecies or types of African gray parrot that can be found in today’s pet trade: the Congo African gray and the Timneh African gray. The former type is characterized for being slightly larger than latter with bright, red tail feathers. The Timneh, on the other hand, is overall darker than the Congo African.

When it comes to temperament, there are significant differences between the two. Timnehs are believed to be more laid back and less prone to feather picking and other neurotic behaviors compared to the Congo African gray.

Generally, African Gray parrots live from 25 to 50 years depending on the history of the bird, lifestyle, stress factors, diseases, and other aspect that may affect its lifespan. When it comes to intelligence, this parrot specie is considered as an extremely intelligent bird because of its ability to talk or mimic different sounds and noises and for having a unique capacity for putting their words and sounds into the right context.

Despite its admirable traits, there are some behavior issues you have to deal with when you possess an African Gray parrot. Because of their intelligence, this bird is quite demanding because you need to spend a lot of time in giving social contact and for mental stimulation. A lot of patience and attention should be given to these birds. These birds are also known for biting and feather picking when they get bored or depressed.

Here are some dos and don’ts in taking care of your African Gray parrot:

1. Make sure that you know the specie of your parrot because having a good knowledge the will provide you better guidelines in taking care of it.

2. Make sure that you provide you African Gray with the basics it needs like large and safe cage, good and healthy diet, a wide range of toys, a dependable T-stand, as well as a gym or play stand, scale, and a commercial carrier.

3. If possible, take time off to talk to the breeder and pet shop assistants who have dealt with your parrot. Talking to them will give you an idea how the bird has been treated in the past.

4. Make sure that you objectively assess if the African Grey Parrot is compatible to your living space and lifestyle. Since these birds are quite demanding pets, attention and clean environment will keep them healthy and happy.

5. Because of its quite demanding nature, an African Grey parrot is not suitable for everyone. Make sure that you think a thousand times before purchasing it and have a written guarantee of its age if possible.

6. Never, ever buy an African Gray parrot on impulse because it can be quite stressful.

7. Don’t keep questions to yourself if you want to know something about the bird.

8. Don’t forget to make a list before you go to the breeder so you won’t miss out on important information you need to know in taking care of your pet.

You can make your own supplement for general fish feeding that is high in DL-methionine (an important amino acid in fish nutrition); Start with whole salmon which is an excellent source of carotene for color (frozen or even canned works), frozen peas, hard boiled egg, frozen or FD brine shrimp, duck weed or spiulina powder, and fish oil (cod liver oil works fine). Blend this mixture then add corn starch to the paste to dehydrate. Spread this paste on small strips of foil (or even wax paper if your dehydrator does not get to hot). Make sure you leave room for air circulation.

For a frozen food, substitute the corn starch with unflavored gelatin powder.

For goldfish and koi, add wheat germ powder. Use this formula for African Cichlids, except delete the wheat germ.

For more carnivorous fish increase the whole fish and decrease the spirulina powder or duckweed. Calamari (squid) can be added too for carnivorous fish, but make sure that all the ink is removed from whole squid.

Use this formula for Discus.

For spirulina powder, Spirulina One Flake can be substituted, but since this already a complete diet for many fish, I double the amount of this and decrease other ingredients by comparable amounts.

Here are basic percentages, please note that you can change these percentages to suit your fish food requirements:

BASIC/GOLDFISH/CARNIVOURE

Whole Salmon: 25% 20% 30%

Peas: 25% 25% 15%

Egg: 20% 15% 25%

Brine shrimp: 15% 15% 15%

Spirulina Powder:10% 15% 5%

Wheat Germ: 0% 5% 0%

Squid: 0% 0% 5%

Fish Oil: 2% 2% 2%

Corn Starch or Gelatin: 3% 3% 3%

For a complete article about what constitutes quality fish food ingredients, please visit this article: Quality Fish Food; What ingredients are needed for proper nutrition, growth and health