Breed Profile - The Pug
'Multum in Parvo' -- a lot of dog in a small space, is a very apt description for the Pug. One of the oldest breeds, this endearing little dog has its origins in the Orient although just when and how it came into existence is shrouded in mystery. It is thought to have originated in China before 400 BC but has been found in Tibet and also Japan before finding its way to Europe where it became the favourite of the Royal Courts in many countries. In Holland the breed became the official dog of the House of Orange as recognition for a Pug saving the life of William, Prince of Orange, by giving warning of the approach of the Spaniards in 1572. When William II landed in England to be crowned King, Pugs were included in his entourage. The breed became very popular during the Victorian era and is featured in many paintings, postcards and figurines of the period. Many of the dogs are depicted wearing wide, decorative collars or large bows around their short, thick necks. The name 'Pug' is thought to have originated from the dogs facial expression, similar to that of marmosets which were widely kept as pets in the early 1700's and which were known as Pugs. Temperament In Holland the Pug is known as 'Mopshond', from the Dutch word 'to grumble', which probably describes the snuffling and 'talking' which is characteristic of the Pug, for it certainly does not describe the nature of this little dog. There are few more endearing dogs than the Pug. It has a natural affinity with children, craves human companionship and although it has an air of dignity it manages to combine it with a sense of humour and a desire to be the centre of attention. Grooming The coat is fine, smooth, soft, short and glossy and is easy to groom. However, Pugs shed a lot of hair so regular brushing is required. The wrinkles around the face should be wiped regularly with a damp cloth, but bathing is only required when necessary. As A Pet The Pug is an ideal pet for all ages and is especially suitable for older folk, as its exercise needs are quite moderate. However, regular exercise will help to maintain health and a regular game of ball will provide plenty of entertainment for the family. It is well suited to apartment living and while it will bark when strangers approach, it is considered a fairly quiet animal. It is important to ensure that the Pug is kept cool on warm days, as this breed does not cope well with heat. As the Pug is very much a breed that prefers to be a housedog it will generally search out the coolest spot in the house -- and certainly the most comfortable whatever the weather!
Training Your New Friend the Crate Method Way
Widely recognized as the most popular and effective way to housetrain puppies the crate method utilizes your dog’s natural instincts. Dogs are naturally clean animals and will not by nature relieve themselves in the area where they sleep.
Knowing how to communicate properly with your dog lies at the heart of the housetraining process. Lecturing, yelling or other forms of punishment will not achieve the desired result. The key is to reward good behavior. Puppies are like babies, much too young to be held responsible for their bowel movements. Punishments are not the way to get through to your puppy. If you are going to use the crate method it's vital that you learn about the proper, humane method to housetrain your dog.
Choosing the right crate
This is very important when it comes to the humane treatment of your puppy. A crate that is too small is very cruel. The puppy should have enough room to maneuver around and be comfortable inside. If the crate is much too large - the puppy might even relieve himself inside the crate.
The plastic varieties of crates are much easier to clean, durable and easier to carry around than the metal varieties.
It is also cruel to leave your puppy inside the crate for too long. Night time is crate time and often even very young puppies can go the entire night without soiling their crates.
You will want to slowly get the puppy used to the crate. The idea here is to create a positive feeling about the crate. Put a nice soft blanket inside and your puppy's favorite toys too. You can also put some yummy treats inside to entice your dog.
Never, ever force your dog inside the crate. It is his sanctuary within your home.
Tips for housetraining
- Prepare the area that your puppy will spend most of its time in with a layer of newspaper.
- Designate an official toilet area for your puppy
- Supervise (or have the children do it) until the puppy has relieved himself.
- If your puppy starts sniffing or circling pick him up and get him outside fast!
Golden rules for housetraining your dog using the crate method:
- Take your puppy out first thing in the morning
- Take your puppy out directly after meals
- If your puppy has had an accident be sure to clean the area thoroughly. Use a product that will remove the odor.
- Never punish your puppy for accidents. You would never yell at your baby and put her nose in her mess. Rather use positive reinforcement when your puppy does her business outside.
- Take your puppy out just before bedtime and make sure he does his business.
- Give praise freely where it is due. Treats, walks and positive reinforcement will go a long way toward getting your puppy to understand that eliminating outside is the goal.
Housetraining your puppy will take time and patience. The kind of dog and your methods will greatly influence how long it takes for your puppy to be fully housetrained.
There is a reason that the crate method is the most widely used housetraining method. It works well. Of course housetraining your puppy isn't your only concern when it comes to raising a well behaved dog. You will also want to set some distinct boundaries. Puppies should not be allowed free reign of the house; at least not until they are fully housetrained. Your puppy is a sponge and above all - keen to please you. You are the pack leader and the puppy will look to you to figure out what is and isn't acceptable in your home.
By deciding early what your puppy may chew on and what furniture he is allowed on you can eliminate confusion and behavioral problems later in life.
Knowing how to communicate properly with your dog lies at the heart of the housetraining process. Lecturing, yelling or other forms of punishment will not achieve the desired result. The key is to reward good behavior. Puppies are like babies, much too young to be held responsible for their bowel movements. Punishments are not the way to get through to your puppy. If you are going to use the crate method it's vital that you learn about the proper, humane method to housetrain your dog.
Choosing the right crate
This is very important when it comes to the humane treatment of your puppy. A crate that is too small is very cruel. The puppy should have enough room to maneuver around and be comfortable inside. If the crate is much too large - the puppy might even relieve himself inside the crate.
The plastic varieties of crates are much easier to clean, durable and easier to carry around than the metal varieties.
It is also cruel to leave your puppy inside the crate for too long. Night time is crate time and often even very young puppies can go the entire night without soiling their crates.
You will want to slowly get the puppy used to the crate. The idea here is to create a positive feeling about the crate. Put a nice soft blanket inside and your puppy's favorite toys too. You can also put some yummy treats inside to entice your dog.
Never, ever force your dog inside the crate. It is his sanctuary within your home.
Tips for housetraining
- Prepare the area that your puppy will spend most of its time in with a layer of newspaper.
- Designate an official toilet area for your puppy
- Supervise (or have the children do it) until the puppy has relieved himself.
- If your puppy starts sniffing or circling pick him up and get him outside fast!
Golden rules for housetraining your dog using the crate method:
- Take your puppy out first thing in the morning
- Take your puppy out directly after meals
- If your puppy has had an accident be sure to clean the area thoroughly. Use a product that will remove the odor.
- Never punish your puppy for accidents. You would never yell at your baby and put her nose in her mess. Rather use positive reinforcement when your puppy does her business outside.
- Take your puppy out just before bedtime and make sure he does his business.
- Give praise freely where it is due. Treats, walks and positive reinforcement will go a long way toward getting your puppy to understand that eliminating outside is the goal.
Housetraining your puppy will take time and patience. The kind of dog and your methods will greatly influence how long it takes for your puppy to be fully housetrained.
There is a reason that the crate method is the most widely used housetraining method. It works well. Of course housetraining your puppy isn't your only concern when it comes to raising a well behaved dog. You will also want to set some distinct boundaries. Puppies should not be allowed free reign of the house; at least not until they are fully housetrained. Your puppy is a sponge and above all - keen to please you. You are the pack leader and the puppy will look to you to figure out what is and isn't acceptable in your home.
By deciding early what your puppy may chew on and what furniture he is allowed on you can eliminate confusion and behavioral problems later in life.
Article Source: http://www.articledashboard.com
Steve Allison is a third generation of professional dog breeders along with his brother Gary. It all started with his grandparents in 1970 with the Boston Terriers and has expanded to Maltese, Yorkshire Terriers, Pugs, Shih Tzu’s and Pomeranians. He is also actively involved with dog rescue and has a website that showcases the puppies they occasionally has for sale at All My Puppies Online Steve is also the co-author of two consumer guides, Carpet Secrets and Moving Secrets Guide
Dog Behaviour Training
Bad behaviour in dogs can consist of many problems. Does he bark all night long and keeps you from sleeping? Are you afraid he is going to keep biting? Does he chew everything except his toys? If the answer to any of these questions are yes you need to invest some time into a little bit of dog behaviour training. A little training will go a long way. Dogs that bark can be extremely irritating but the main thing is not to loose your cool, if you shout at him he will try to shout louder than you. Try and find out the cause of his barking. Is he barking because he is afraid? Is he happy? Is there someone out there? If you can't find the reason for the barking then he is doing it because he doesn't know it is wrong to bark all the time. This is where dog behaviour training comes in. There are lots of products available to help dogs with constant barking, there are special collars which gives them the tiniest of electric shocks so they know that it isn't good to bark. A biting dog is maybe one of the more serious behaviour problems, especially now that the laws are tightened and any dog that bites someone is more than likely to get put down. Teaching your dog not to bite is one of the most important teachings you can give him. This is where you have to be firm and stick to your guns. When playing with a young dog they will automatically nip and gnaw at your hand this is because when dogs play together they play with their mouths. When teaching your dog not to bite stroke him with one hand while offering something which is acceptable to be bitten with the other hand, something like a chew toy or a raw hide treat. Your dog will soon realise that hands aren't there for biting. This process has to be done repeatedly for it to take effect. Dog behaviour training is simple enough for the experienced dog lover but when it comes to beginners all the help available is needed. Accept help from friends and family and maybe even enroll in a dog behaviour training class, this will help you to meet other people, having the same problems with their dogs that you are with yours. You are not alone when it comes to having trouble with dog behaviour problems. Every dog will get them, it's just a matter of how you fix them.
Cat Litter Box Health Considerations
Cats are the most popular pets in the United States. According to the latest version of the U.S. Pet Ownership & Demographics Sourcebook (2002 Edition) there were almost 70 Million pet cats in the United States. Why are cats so popular? There are as many answers to this question as there are cat owners, but the low health risks cats pose to their owners is certainly near the top of this list. Even though the potential health risks cats pose to people are small, it is important that cat owners are aware of these risks and understand how to reduce them.
The majority of all risks stemming from cat ownership are associated with the cat litter box and/or cat feces. There are two categories of risks. The first category contains health risks posed by bacteria and parasites to both cat owners and their cats. The second category contains injuries resulting from an automatic litter box or self cleaning litter box.
Primarily the health problems experienced by cat owners or their cats come from the first category and the most significant of these risks is called Toxoplasmosis. Toxoplasmosis is an infection caused by a tiny parasite called Toxoplasma gondii which can be found in raw or undercooked meat, unwashed fruits and vegetables, dirty cat litter boxes and outdoor soil where cat feces can be found. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) more than 60 million people in the United States may be infected with the Toxoplasma parasite(1). Fortunately, very few people ever experience any symptoms because a healthy person's immune system usually keeps the parasite from causing illness. However, pregnant women and individuals who have compromised immune systems, such as individuals infected with the HIV virus, are at risk and should take precautions to avoid being infected by the parasite. For people in this group a Toxoplasma infection could cause serious health problems to the individual or to a pregnant womanÂ’s unborn child.
Again, most of the 60 million plus AmericanÂ’s infected with Toxoplasmosis parasite will never experience any symptoms. Most of those who do experience symptoms will simply think they have the Flu as the most common symptoms include swollen glands, fever, headache, muscle pain, or a stiff neck. For those in the high risk group, Toxoplasmosis can cause damage to the brain, eyes and internal organs. According to the US Food and Drug Administration, children born with Toxoplasma gondii can suffer from hearing loss, mental retardation, and blindness with some children developing brain or eye problems years after birth(2). The CDC estimates that 400-4000 fetuses are infected with the Toxoplasma gondii parasite each year and as many as 80 infants die from Toxoplasmosis annually(2).
So how does an individual contract Toxoplasmosis? A Toxoplasmosis infection is caused by ingesting the Toxoplasma gondi parasite. Most cat owners are infected with the parasite by accidentally ingesting infected cat feces. This happens when a person touches their mouth after handling a cat litter box, working in a garden or sand box or touching anything that has come in contact with cat feces(3).
People in the high risk group may wonder whether or not they should give up their cat to avoid infection. According to the CDC, it is not necessary for cat lovers to give up their cats, but it is important for them to protect themselves from infections. The USFDA makes the following recommendations for avoiding infections(2):
1) If possible, have someone else change the litter box. If you have to clean it, wear disposable gloves and wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water afterwards.
2) Change the litter box daily. The parasite doesn't become infectious until one to five days after the feces are deposited in the litter box.
3) Wear gloves when gardening in a garden or handling sand from a sandbox because cats may have excreted feces in them. Be sure to wash your hands with soap and warm water afterwards.
4) Cover outdoor sandboxes to prevent cats from using them as litter boxes.
5) Feed your cat commercial dry or canned food. Never feed your cat raw meat because it can be a source of the Toxoplasmosis gondii parasite.
6) Keep indoor cats indoors. Be especially cautious if you bring outdoor cats indoors.
7) Avoid stray cats, especially kittens.
8) Don't get a new cat while you're pregnant.
Safer Child, Inc. makes the following additional recommendations(4):
1) Have your veterinarian test your cat for the Toxoplasmosis parasite. If you cat is infected, you may want to consider having someone else keep your cat during your pregnancy.
2) Keep sandboxes covered to prevent cats from using the sandbox as a litter box.
3) Be aware of neighborhood sandboxes as the parasite can be brought home on shoes, clothing and toys.
Similar to Toxoplasmosis, Escherichia coli (commonly called E. coli) can infect humans thru contact with feline fecal material, although the primary means of infection is thru ingestion or raw or undercooked meats. E. Coli is a bacterium commonly found in the intestinal tract of humans and animals. Almost all strains of the bacteria are harmless. However a few strains can produce powerful toxins and cause severe illness, especially in children under 5 years of age(5). Symptoms usually include diarrhea and abdominal cramps. In children under 5, 2%-7% of E. coli cases can cause kidney failure. Fortunately, E. coli is easy to prevent. Using the preventative measures, outlined above for Toxoplasmosis will greatly reduce the risks of you or your children contracting an E. coli infection.
In addition to these human risks, there are a few health risks cat litter boxes actually pose to cats that cat owners should be aware of. Just as a dirty litter box poses health risks to humans, cats are equally at risk if forced to use a dirty litter box. Since cats stay clean by licking themselves, allowing a catÂ’s litter box to get too dirty can cause infections when a cat cleans itÂ’s paws after using the dirty litter box. The most common infection is a urinary tract infection, and although this type of infection is rarely fatal it can be very uncomfortable for your cat and will most likely require treatment by your veterinarian.
Finally, a lesser-known health risk to cats is actually caused by cat litter itself. What many cat owners do not realize is that some types of cat litter can be harmful or even fatal to their cat. Both clumping and non-clumping litters pose health problems to cats. Clumping cat litters are probably the most popular type of cat litter because of their convenience, hygienic qualities and the fact that clumping litters are required for use in self-cleaning litter boxes. Unfortunately, some clumping litters can be harmful to cats. Clay based clumping litters can contain the mineral sodium bentonite, which can be harmful or fatal to your cat. It is best to avoid using clay based cat litters, especially with kittens. Wheat or corn based clumping litters such as Swheat Scoop, WorldÂ’s Best Cat Litter and Littermaid cat litter work very well and are non-toxic(6).
By their very nature, non-clumping litters do not absorb and isolate a catÂ’s urine or feces like clumping litters do. As a result, it is much harder to keep your catÂ’s litter box clean when using non-clumping litter. When using non-clumping litter it is important to frequently clean and disinfect the litter box itself to reduce the chance of bacterial buildups that can cause urinary or other infections in your cat.
The second category of health risks covers injuries caused by an automatic litter box or self cleaning litter box. Occurrences of this type of injury are rare, but they can happen. An automatic or self cleaning litter box does just what it’s name implies. Usually between 10-15 minutes after a cat uses the litter box, the litter box automatically cleans itself by “sweeping†or “raking†the cat waste into a sealed compartment or bag. For cat owners, injuries can occur if a small child or toddler plays with the automatic litter box during the cleaning cycle. All major brands of automatic litter boxes contain sensors to prevent the cleaning mechanism from activating when a cat or other foreign object is inside the box. However, children can still be injured if they put their hand inside the cleaning mechanism in such a manner as to avoid the sensors.
Although these types of injuries are very rare it is best to take precautions. Placing the litter box in a location where your cat can get to it but small children can’t is an easy method. This is good advice for any litter box as this is the best way to keep children from contracting one of the illnesses described earlier in this article. If you can’t keep the automatic litter box out of a child’s reach then it is best to put the litter box inside a litter box cover. There are many types of covers and all of them will help prevent a child from reaching the litter box and the cleaning mechanism. A final option is to unplug the litter box or put it into a “manual operation†mode. Both of these options will require the cat owner to start the cleaning cycle whenever necessary. Although this reduces some of the convenience of an automatic litter box it certainly removes the danger to children.
Automatic or self cleaning litter boxes are completely safe for almost all cats. However, most manufacturers recommend that the litter box be used in “manual operation†mode for cats under 5 lbs. Cats under 5 lbs many not be large enough to activate the sensors and the cleaning mechanism could cause injury. Since most adult cats weigh over 5 lbs, it is only necessary to use the “manual operation†mode until kittens grow to 5 lbs.
This article is not intended to dissuade anyone from owning a cat. 70 Million cat owners canÂ’t be wrong; cats make great pets! So, if you already own a cat or are thinking of becoming a cat owner it simply makes good sense to be aware of the health risks associated with cat ownership. Understanding the risks can definately increase the enjoyment of cat ownership.
(1)Toxoplasmosis Fact Sheet; http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dpd/parasites/toxoplasmosis/factsht_toxoplasmosis.htm
(2) While You're Pregnant Ââ€" USFDA
http://www.cfsan.fda.gov/~pregnant/whiltoxo.html
(3) Toxoplasmosis Ââ€" An important Message for Cat Owners; http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dpd/parasites/toxoplasmosis/toxoplasmosis_brochure_8.2004.pdf
(4) Safer Child, Inc.;
http://www.saferchild.org/pets&.htm
(5) Escherichia coli O157:H7 Fact Sheet;
http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dbmd/diseaseinfo/escherichiacoli_g.htm
(6) Stanford Cat NetworkÂ’s Ââ€" Guide to Caring for Your Adopted Cat or Kitten;
http://www.stanford.edu/group/CATNET/articles/careguide.html#litter
The majority of all risks stemming from cat ownership are associated with the cat litter box and/or cat feces. There are two categories of risks. The first category contains health risks posed by bacteria and parasites to both cat owners and their cats. The second category contains injuries resulting from an automatic litter box or self cleaning litter box.
Primarily the health problems experienced by cat owners or their cats come from the first category and the most significant of these risks is called Toxoplasmosis. Toxoplasmosis is an infection caused by a tiny parasite called Toxoplasma gondii which can be found in raw or undercooked meat, unwashed fruits and vegetables, dirty cat litter boxes and outdoor soil where cat feces can be found. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) more than 60 million people in the United States may be infected with the Toxoplasma parasite(1). Fortunately, very few people ever experience any symptoms because a healthy person's immune system usually keeps the parasite from causing illness. However, pregnant women and individuals who have compromised immune systems, such as individuals infected with the HIV virus, are at risk and should take precautions to avoid being infected by the parasite. For people in this group a Toxoplasma infection could cause serious health problems to the individual or to a pregnant womanÂ’s unborn child.
Again, most of the 60 million plus AmericanÂ’s infected with Toxoplasmosis parasite will never experience any symptoms. Most of those who do experience symptoms will simply think they have the Flu as the most common symptoms include swollen glands, fever, headache, muscle pain, or a stiff neck. For those in the high risk group, Toxoplasmosis can cause damage to the brain, eyes and internal organs. According to the US Food and Drug Administration, children born with Toxoplasma gondii can suffer from hearing loss, mental retardation, and blindness with some children developing brain or eye problems years after birth(2). The CDC estimates that 400-4000 fetuses are infected with the Toxoplasma gondii parasite each year and as many as 80 infants die from Toxoplasmosis annually(2).
So how does an individual contract Toxoplasmosis? A Toxoplasmosis infection is caused by ingesting the Toxoplasma gondi parasite. Most cat owners are infected with the parasite by accidentally ingesting infected cat feces. This happens when a person touches their mouth after handling a cat litter box, working in a garden or sand box or touching anything that has come in contact with cat feces(3).
People in the high risk group may wonder whether or not they should give up their cat to avoid infection. According to the CDC, it is not necessary for cat lovers to give up their cats, but it is important for them to protect themselves from infections. The USFDA makes the following recommendations for avoiding infections(2):
1) If possible, have someone else change the litter box. If you have to clean it, wear disposable gloves and wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water afterwards.
2) Change the litter box daily. The parasite doesn't become infectious until one to five days after the feces are deposited in the litter box.
3) Wear gloves when gardening in a garden or handling sand from a sandbox because cats may have excreted feces in them. Be sure to wash your hands with soap and warm water afterwards.
4) Cover outdoor sandboxes to prevent cats from using them as litter boxes.
5) Feed your cat commercial dry or canned food. Never feed your cat raw meat because it can be a source of the Toxoplasmosis gondii parasite.
6) Keep indoor cats indoors. Be especially cautious if you bring outdoor cats indoors.
7) Avoid stray cats, especially kittens.
8) Don't get a new cat while you're pregnant.
Safer Child, Inc. makes the following additional recommendations(4):
1) Have your veterinarian test your cat for the Toxoplasmosis parasite. If you cat is infected, you may want to consider having someone else keep your cat during your pregnancy.
2) Keep sandboxes covered to prevent cats from using the sandbox as a litter box.
3) Be aware of neighborhood sandboxes as the parasite can be brought home on shoes, clothing and toys.
Similar to Toxoplasmosis, Escherichia coli (commonly called E. coli) can infect humans thru contact with feline fecal material, although the primary means of infection is thru ingestion or raw or undercooked meats. E. Coli is a bacterium commonly found in the intestinal tract of humans and animals. Almost all strains of the bacteria are harmless. However a few strains can produce powerful toxins and cause severe illness, especially in children under 5 years of age(5). Symptoms usually include diarrhea and abdominal cramps. In children under 5, 2%-7% of E. coli cases can cause kidney failure. Fortunately, E. coli is easy to prevent. Using the preventative measures, outlined above for Toxoplasmosis will greatly reduce the risks of you or your children contracting an E. coli infection.
In addition to these human risks, there are a few health risks cat litter boxes actually pose to cats that cat owners should be aware of. Just as a dirty litter box poses health risks to humans, cats are equally at risk if forced to use a dirty litter box. Since cats stay clean by licking themselves, allowing a catÂ’s litter box to get too dirty can cause infections when a cat cleans itÂ’s paws after using the dirty litter box. The most common infection is a urinary tract infection, and although this type of infection is rarely fatal it can be very uncomfortable for your cat and will most likely require treatment by your veterinarian.
Finally, a lesser-known health risk to cats is actually caused by cat litter itself. What many cat owners do not realize is that some types of cat litter can be harmful or even fatal to their cat. Both clumping and non-clumping litters pose health problems to cats. Clumping cat litters are probably the most popular type of cat litter because of their convenience, hygienic qualities and the fact that clumping litters are required for use in self-cleaning litter boxes. Unfortunately, some clumping litters can be harmful to cats. Clay based clumping litters can contain the mineral sodium bentonite, which can be harmful or fatal to your cat. It is best to avoid using clay based cat litters, especially with kittens. Wheat or corn based clumping litters such as Swheat Scoop, WorldÂ’s Best Cat Litter and Littermaid cat litter work very well and are non-toxic(6).
By their very nature, non-clumping litters do not absorb and isolate a catÂ’s urine or feces like clumping litters do. As a result, it is much harder to keep your catÂ’s litter box clean when using non-clumping litter. When using non-clumping litter it is important to frequently clean and disinfect the litter box itself to reduce the chance of bacterial buildups that can cause urinary or other infections in your cat.
The second category of health risks covers injuries caused by an automatic litter box or self cleaning litter box. Occurrences of this type of injury are rare, but they can happen. An automatic or self cleaning litter box does just what it’s name implies. Usually between 10-15 minutes after a cat uses the litter box, the litter box automatically cleans itself by “sweeping†or “raking†the cat waste into a sealed compartment or bag. For cat owners, injuries can occur if a small child or toddler plays with the automatic litter box during the cleaning cycle. All major brands of automatic litter boxes contain sensors to prevent the cleaning mechanism from activating when a cat or other foreign object is inside the box. However, children can still be injured if they put their hand inside the cleaning mechanism in such a manner as to avoid the sensors.
Although these types of injuries are very rare it is best to take precautions. Placing the litter box in a location where your cat can get to it but small children can’t is an easy method. This is good advice for any litter box as this is the best way to keep children from contracting one of the illnesses described earlier in this article. If you can’t keep the automatic litter box out of a child’s reach then it is best to put the litter box inside a litter box cover. There are many types of covers and all of them will help prevent a child from reaching the litter box and the cleaning mechanism. A final option is to unplug the litter box or put it into a “manual operation†mode. Both of these options will require the cat owner to start the cleaning cycle whenever necessary. Although this reduces some of the convenience of an automatic litter box it certainly removes the danger to children.
Automatic or self cleaning litter boxes are completely safe for almost all cats. However, most manufacturers recommend that the litter box be used in “manual operation†mode for cats under 5 lbs. Cats under 5 lbs many not be large enough to activate the sensors and the cleaning mechanism could cause injury. Since most adult cats weigh over 5 lbs, it is only necessary to use the “manual operation†mode until kittens grow to 5 lbs.
This article is not intended to dissuade anyone from owning a cat. 70 Million cat owners canÂ’t be wrong; cats make great pets! So, if you already own a cat or are thinking of becoming a cat owner it simply makes good sense to be aware of the health risks associated with cat ownership. Understanding the risks can definately increase the enjoyment of cat ownership.
(1)Toxoplasmosis Fact Sheet; http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dpd/parasites/toxoplasmosis/factsht_toxoplasmosis.htm
(2) While You're Pregnant Ââ€" USFDA
http://www.cfsan.fda.gov/~pregnant/whiltoxo.html
(3) Toxoplasmosis Ââ€" An important Message for Cat Owners; http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dpd/parasites/toxoplasmosis/toxoplasmosis_brochure_8.2004.pdf
(4) Safer Child, Inc.;
http://www.saferchild.org/pets&.htm
(5) Escherichia coli O157:H7 Fact Sheet;
http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dbmd/diseaseinfo/escherichiacoli_g.htm
(6) Stanford Cat NetworkÂ’s Ââ€" Guide to Caring for Your Adopted Cat or Kitten;
http://www.stanford.edu/group/CATNET/articles/careguide.html#litter
Article Source: http://www.articledashboard.com
The author is a long time cat lover who currently owns and operates LitterBoxesandMore.com; a business specializing in high quality automatic litter boxes or self cleaning litter boxes. LitterBoxesandMore.com also offers other specialty cat products such as pet strollers and indoor cat fences. Come visit us at www.litterboxesandmore.com
Dog training with a head collar
The head collar has become an increasingly popular dog training tool in the past couple of years. Two of the most well known brands of head collar on the market are the Gentle Leader and the Halti, but there are many other brands that incorporate the basic head collar concept. Many people find the Gentle Leader easier to fit that the Halti, and in addition the Gentle Leader is designed to fasten around the dog's neck. The advantage of this design is that even if the dog is somehow able to wriggle out of the muzzle, it is still wearing a collar. This safety feature is very important, especially during training outside or in novel situations. On the other hand, the Halti offers better control of the dog, and for this reason it is often favored when working with very aggressive dogs. Training a dog with a head collar has a number of advantages over training with a traditional or training collar. For one thing, head collars are often easier to use for beginning dog trainers than are training collars. Head collars are also quite effective at preventing dogs from pulling, or controlling and retraining dogs that tend to pull. Head collars can also be quite effective at controlling dogs in difficult situations, such as controlling a dog that wants to be with other dogs. Most owners know of some situations in which their dogs are difficult to control, and head collars can be quite effective at controlling these volatile situations. Head collars can be excellent for controlling dogs that are very strong, or for working with a dog in an area that contains a great many distractions. For instance, head collars are great for when your dog is on an outing, or in an area where there will be other dogs and other distractions. Even though a head collar can be a great tool, it should not be used as a replacement for effective dog training. A head collar is most effective when it is used in combination with strong and sensible dog training methods, such as reward training and other forms of positive reinforcement. Disadvantages of head collars Even though head collars have many advantages, they have some distinct disadvantages as well. For one thing, head collars tend to make many dogs dependent on the equipment, and they quickly learn the difference between their regular collar and the head collar, and adjust their behavior accordingly. In addition, some dogs, particularly those not accustomed to wearing a head collar, dislike wearing it and paw at it, try to rub it off or pull excessively. If your dog exhibits this behavior, the best strategy is to keep it moving until it learns to accept the collar. A good alternative is to have the dog sit by pulling up on the dog's head. Another disadvantage of the head collar is the reaction that many people have to it. Many people think that a head collar is a muzzle, and react to the dog as if it may bite. While this is not necessarily a defect of the head collar, many people do find it troublesome. In conclusion, training with a head collar is much like training with a training collar or any other equipment. While the head collar can be an important and useful tool, it is important to use it appropriately, follow all package instructions, and to combine its use with solid training methods. The eventual goal of dog training with a head collar should be to have the dog behave as well with a regular collar as it does with the specialized head collar.
How to Make a wonderful Life for Your Baby Turtles
You might want at some time to breed your turtles. Or you will buy a baby turtle. In both cases you must know some important baby turtle care facts that will help you in healthy growing them. If one decides to get a baby turtle, in the majority of cases he will go to a pet store and will choose the qutest little green turtle that he sees. but pleaser have in mind that a baby turtle it's a little more delicate that a mature turtle so there are specific turtle care aspects that you mustn't forget. Anyway, if you decide to have a baby turtle please take good care of it, try to follow all the recommendation because at that age the turtles are very demanding and helpless.
I will try to explain in this article the housing process for the baby turtles. I think that this is the first and one of the most important steps in the baby turtle care.
Baby turtle care: housing issue
Baby turtles need fresh water. if, a mature turtle can survive in a slightly dirty water that's not happening to the baby. So try to keep them in fresh shallow water all the time. The water should be at least as deep as their shell's wide but be careful not to be deeper that they can reach the surface easily. you'll also have to provide them a basking spot. As i said, keeping a fresh water means changing it daily. you can also use a filter so you can change the water every 2-3 days.
If you decide to use a water filter some problems might appear that you have to resolve. The filter will create some kind of a current. If this current is to strong for the little ones than they will paddle against it in vain. So in some time they will get exhausted and that's not good for them. The best way to resolve this turtle care problem is by placing some rocks or bricks for lessening the current.
One possibility is to slant the tank slightly, to create deeper water where the filter is and shallower water where the basking spot is. I use flat, round river rocks for resting spots.
If you keep your turtle indoor and the room temperature seems to low than you should try to cover a part of the tank to keep the air worm. But when you see that the condensation acumulates uncover the tank. If you don't do that then the turtles won't dry enough.
The turtles need Vitamin D3 and Calcium. These can be found in a variety of foods. But of you don't provide this kind of turtle food then you should get some kind of vitamin supplements. In any of the cases do not put your turtle tank directly on your window.
If the baby turtles are kept outdoors than also try to cover the tank because the cats and the crows will find your little ones as a great meal.
Remember that if you decided that you want to keep a baby turtle there are many turtle care issues involved. If you think that you can't take care of all this turtle care issues like the housing problems please don't keep the turtle. try to fin someone that can give her a happy life.
I will try to explain in this article the housing process for the baby turtles. I think that this is the first and one of the most important steps in the baby turtle care.
Baby turtle care: housing issue
Baby turtles need fresh water. if, a mature turtle can survive in a slightly dirty water that's not happening to the baby. So try to keep them in fresh shallow water all the time. The water should be at least as deep as their shell's wide but be careful not to be deeper that they can reach the surface easily. you'll also have to provide them a basking spot. As i said, keeping a fresh water means changing it daily. you can also use a filter so you can change the water every 2-3 days.
If you decide to use a water filter some problems might appear that you have to resolve. The filter will create some kind of a current. If this current is to strong for the little ones than they will paddle against it in vain. So in some time they will get exhausted and that's not good for them. The best way to resolve this turtle care problem is by placing some rocks or bricks for lessening the current.
One possibility is to slant the tank slightly, to create deeper water where the filter is and shallower water where the basking spot is. I use flat, round river rocks for resting spots.
If you keep your turtle indoor and the room temperature seems to low than you should try to cover a part of the tank to keep the air worm. But when you see that the condensation acumulates uncover the tank. If you don't do that then the turtles won't dry enough.
The turtles need Vitamin D3 and Calcium. These can be found in a variety of foods. But of you don't provide this kind of turtle food then you should get some kind of vitamin supplements. In any of the cases do not put your turtle tank directly on your window.
If the baby turtles are kept outdoors than also try to cover the tank because the cats and the crows will find your little ones as a great meal.
Remember that if you decided that you want to keep a baby turtle there are many turtle care issues involved. If you think that you can't take care of all this turtle care issues like the housing problems please don't keep the turtle. try to fin someone that can give her a happy life.
Article Source: http://www.articledashboard.com
You have a turtle and you are not sure if you know all the turtle care secrets to keep a happy pet? Than you must visit us the turtle care center where you can find the best turtle information on the Net.
Stages of Whelphing a Litter of Puppies
Your dog being pregnant can be a nerve racking time for owners who have not had the experience before. Just like with human babies the first is the most challenging and if you intend on doing this often â€" don't worry it gets easier with practice.
Follow some of these tips for making the birthing process as easy as you can for your dog.
Labor
Generally dogs give birth after about 63 days of pregnancy. NO matter how planned or coordinated the pregnancy is nobody can predict on which day your dog is due. The universal standard is anywhere between 59 and 69 days. If your dog is extremely large she might carry the pups for much longer and smaller breeds tend to deliver sooner.
Chances are your dog will start behaving differently when the time comes. On the day of the labor your bitch will seen anxious and nervous. Every dog reacts differently. Some dogs whine, others even vomit!
Make sure the birthing area is ready you will need a whelping box set up in a quiet and warm area for her. Many dogs begin 'nesting' when the labor is near. You will want to make sure that the box is lined with newspaper so you can easily clean up the birthing mess without disturbing the puppies.
Around the time that you suspect your dog is ready you should start taking her temperature at regular intervals. When her temperature starts dropping to 100F and below you can expect the puppies to be delivered within the next 24 hours.
Labor Stage 1
During this stage your dog’s cervix is dilating to allow space for the puppies to come out. She will start experiencing painful contractions and become restless.
Every dog has a different reaction but commonly start pacing, shivering, whining or vomiting as the contractions become stronger and more painful.
Try to remember that she is confused by the pain if it’s her first time.
If you can try to minimize noise in the area around the birthing area; your dog is feeling frightened and experiencing some strange instincts. Close the door and try to keep the amount of people in the room to a minimum. Just you and a 'helper' should be sufficient.
Labor Stage 2
During the second stage of her labor you can expect to see her water breaking, her contractions are now coming closer together and are much more painful.
The puppies start coming out usually within half an hour of each other and different dogs deal with it differently; some dogs take a nap between pups others just keep going.
As the puppies come out the bitch should tear the sac open and start licking the puppy. Her licking stimulates circulation and many believe that this is one of the most important parts of the birth of happy well adjusted puppies. The licking not only helps puppies breathe, it stimulates circulation as well as bonding with the puppies.
If the dog does not tear the sacs open herself you will need to intervene. Using your nails pierce the sac and rub the puppies. Never however tear open a sac if a puppy is stuck and hanging out the birth canal.
It's common for puppies to be born in a breech position and experts say the best way to deal with this is to gently but firmly tug on the puppy’s feet. Use a twisting motion to loosen the puppy. Keep some lubricant on hand just in case. If more than 4 hours passes between puppies it's time for medical intervention.
Labor Stage 3
After all the puppies have been born any left over placenta, blood and fluid is passed. Don’t freak out if the color of the blood is not red and especially with her bowel movements. Bowel movements will be a different color for a few days.
Whelping
The puppies are fragile and you will need to carefully monitor their growth over the next few days. Keep the whelping room warm, quiet and supervised at all times.
If one puppy seems to be getting less milk than the others you may need to separate them from the others to allow for some one on one time with mom. If weak puppies show little improvement you may need to bottle feed. Also have some Karo syrup on hand. Put syrup on baby finger, just about a pea size and put it in the puppy’s mouth. This gives those small ones some extra energy. Babies should gain several ounces within 24 hours and if they don’t there may be something wrong. It may be time to see the vet.
Congratulations! The hardest part is now over. Be sure to take your dog for a complete checkup soon after the birth. If you intend on selling the puppies you can now phone prospective buyers and confirm the number of healthy pups.
Steve Allison is a third generation of professional dog breeders along with his brother Gary. It all started with his grandparents in 1970 with the Boston Terriers and has expanded to Maltese, Yorkshire Terriers, Pugs, Shih Tzu’s and Pomeranians. He is also actively involved with dog rescue and has a website that showcases the puppies they occasionally has for sale at All My Puppies Online Steve is also the co-author of two consumer guides, Carpet Secrets and Moving Secrets Guide
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