Throw the Pet Door Open to Freedom
Pet doors are designed to give your pet freedom of movement. No pet wants to be locked inside on a beautiful day, but neither do you want to have to open and shut the door all day long. The perfect solution is to install a pet door that allows your pet to enter and exit when they wish.
Any pet will need a bit of training to use a pet door. If they have never seen one before take the time to introduce your pet to the new door slowly. Let them adjust to the sounds the door makes as you open and close it several times. Then let them sniff about the door and hold it open so they can see that the door opens to the outside. If needed you can gently push your pet through the door a few times, so they see how it works. Normally, once they see that they can get outside they quickly accept the new situation. To get them back inside you can set their food bowl just beyond the entrance, so they need to enter fully to use the door.
If you have pets, especially dogs, which you need to leave at home while you are at work, a pet door will reduce your concerns about accidents. Even if you get caught at work on an extra assignment, you know that your dog can get out into the yard and take care of business. Dogs will also use the door to get outside and “protect” their property, reducing the odds of intruders while you are out of the house.
Cats use their doors to get out into the sun and to explore the yard. Combined with an electric fence the pet door is a wonderful way to allow your cat some freedom without the worry of having it wandering the neighborhood. Cats like to move about as much as dogs do, but due to their more reserved nature they don’t seem to need the freedom. While you want your cat to be safe, it is nice to allow it some time outside. Again, a pet door is an ideal solution.
Pet doors come in a variety of sizes. Get a pet door that is large enough for your pet to move in and out comfortably, but doesn’t have too much extra room. If you purchase an electronic pet door you will have a radio collar to add to your pet’s normal collar. The advantage of these systems is that your pet can trigger the opening mechanism of the door when they get close enough, but the door will stay closed against other animals and intruders.
Pet doors offer both pets and their animals a freedom that no other product allows. With pets able to go in and out they experience less stress when left at home and don’t need to be confined to a kennel. For owners the knowledge that their pets are happy and won’t have unintentional accidents is peace of mind. Consider installing a pet door and experience this for yourself.
Celebrity Weddings Gone to the Dogs
Dogs playing the role of groomsmen, bridesmaids, ring bearers and flower girls is an ever increasing trend in modern weddings. This is in part because of people’s innate love for their dogs, but also might have something to do with the popularity of pooches in celebrity weddings. People can’t get enough of celebrity news even if they do not want to admit it. Let’s face it we seem to care more about who celebrities are dating than world politics. In a nation obsessed with celebrity news and dogs it is no wonder that canines are showing up on wedding isles across the country in designer duds with perfect pawdicures! Here is a list of trend setting celebs and their tail wagging weddings:
1. Gwen Stefani and Gavin Rossdale: After six years of dating the rock stars wed in a traditional Anglican ceremony in St. Paul’s Covenant Garden in London on September 14, 2002. The ceremony was traditional all except for Gwen’s choice in isle escorts. The No Doubt front woman was escorted down the isle by her sheepdog, Winston who was decked in a rose covered collar and lead. The couple is currently happily married with two sons, Kingston James and Zuma Nesta.
2. Adam Sandler and Jacqueline Titone: The comedian and his bride wed on June 22, 2003 in an outdoor ceremony at Dick Clark’s Malibu estate. The wedding was fit for the couple complete with an impromptu serenade from Sandler to his bride and plenty of canine antics. Sandler’s beloved bulldog Matzoball pulled him down the isle in a wagon while his best dog Meatball followed behind with the rings. Both dogs wore tuxedos, which matched the groom, and little yarmulkes on their heads. The couple recently welcomed their second daughter, Sunny Madeline, in November of 2008. Sunny’s older sister, Sadie Madison, has matching initials. Unfortunately, Meatball his since passed away.
3. Gisele Bundchen and Tom Brady: This pretty pair made it official in a secret February 2009 ceremony in California before re-confirming their vows in Costa Rico later in the year. The bride wore head to toe Dolce & Gabbana with handmade satin roses and a coordinating satin headband. Her three pooches attended the ceremony and were perfectly accessorized with matching Dolce & Gabbana floral lace collars.
4. Elton John & David Furnish: The couple hosted a civil ceremony in the exclusive Windsor’s Guidhall in December of 2005.The event was a star studded gala with guests including Ozzy Osborne, Ringo Star, David Beckham and Sharon Stone. Sir Elton’s favorite guest; however, was his Cocker Spaniel Arthur who served as the best dog. No word on whether or not the couple will adopt children or just get more dogs.
5. Tori Spelling and Charlie Shanian: The Beverly Hills 90210 princess spared no expense in her July 2004 wedding to her first husband. The event was a gala affair with every amenity imaginable. Tori’s famous pug Mimi Larue almost upstaged the bride in her custom designed wedding ensemble. Tori has since remarried to Dean McDermott and lives with their two children, son Liam and daughter Stella. Mimi has since passed with people across the nation mourning her passing.
Other stars like Pink and Carey Hart chose to take their dogs on their honeymoon. The couple took their four dogs on their Aspen honeymoon in February of 2007. Other stars haven’t even set the date yet, but have publically declared that their pets will play a role in the ceremony. Jennifer Hudson and David Otunga have been engage for some time and while the singer and Harvard graduate have not set a date, Hudson will have her three dogs, Oscar, Grammy and Dreamgirl, front and center in the ceremony.
Article submitted by a site with SportDOG, Dogtra, and Tri-Tronics.
Top 10 Cat Care Essentials
Top 10 Cat Care Essentials
While cats require significantly less effort than their dog counterparts, they do require proper care for their health and well-being. Given the appropriate care and amount of attention your cat will be a part of your life for many happy and fulfilling years. While this list is not all-inclusive it should give you the building blocks for successful cat care:
1. High Quality Food: Cats need a diet rich in protein as they are strict carnivores and must digest protein to provide them with essential nutrients for their good health. Considering their strict carnivore nature, cats can not produce key vitamins and amino acids within their own bodies like omnivores can. They must get these nutrients from the flesh of other animals that have produced these nutrients already. Be careful of inexpensive grocery store brands as they contain many ingredients that are not essential for your cat’s health. Spend a little more on cat food and you will spend less in the long-run when Veterinary bills are added to the bottom line.
2. Covered Litter Box: Cats need a private and safe place to use the restroom and will be more inclined to use a litter box that offers both privacy and the feeling of safety. This is also essential in that it keeps litter in the box and off of your floors.
3. Clumping Kitty Litter: Some cat owners might feel that this is the best thing since sliced bread and their cats might concur. Cats are clean animals and will appreciate a clean place to do their business. Clumping kitty litter makes it easy to remove waste in between litter box cleanings.
4. Collar with ID: While cats are indoor pets they do escape from time to time and a proper collar with identification will help to ensure her safe return to you in the event that she gets loose. Millions of cats end up in shelters every year and the proper identification will help yours not to become a statistic.
5. Cat Carrier: A portable, ventilated, plastic carrying case is an essential item for your cat. This provides safety when traveling in the car and also a place to safely keep your cat when making annual trips to the Veterinarian. Cats do not travel well in cars so the carrier provides a safe place for her and also cuts down on the risk of car accidents when driving with a frantic cat loose in the car.
6. Scratching Post: This essential carries a two-fold benefit. For one, it protects your furniture and drapes from kitty claw shredding. It also provides exercise and mental stimulation for your cat. She will use her claws to dig in and pull up her body weight. This allows for kitty equivalent to strength training and keeps her entertained as well.
7. Dental Cleaning Pads: The most common health problem among cats is dental related. These treated pads will help to remove plaque and tarter buildup on your cat’s teeth when rubbed along the teeth and gums. There are kitty toothbrushes available, but the pads are typically more tolerated on the part of the cat and easier for their owners to use.
8. Stimulating Toy: Cats love to play with toys whether they be homemade or store bought. Try a stick with a string tied to it and a ball on the end of the string. Bob it up and down and watch your cat give chase. Cats can also entertain themselves for long periods of time with a simply ping pong ball in a closed paper bag. Whichever route you take, make sure she has some toys to keep her occupied when you are away.
9. Window Perch: Cats love to jump up on things so why not create a special perch of their own? Window ledges covered in a carpet scrap will do the trick or more elaborate perches purchased through catalogues or in stores will work as well. Cats love to lounge in the sun while watching the world go by. Who knows, maybe if they have a perch of their own they will stay off the kitchen counters?
10. Regular Check-ups: Cats need regular yearly check-ups even when they appear healthy. Your Veterinarian can recommend many different solutions to prevent health problems while providing yearly vaccinations and performing other vital check-up services.
Article submitted by discount-pet-mall a site with pet steps, pet beds and pet gates.
Prevent peril to your prized possessions
Cat proofing your home will help to keep her safe as well as prevent peril to your prized possessions. Follow the following tips and you will be on your way to a cat proofed home:
1. Beware of toxic house plants. There are a variety of outdoor plants poisonous to cats; however, cats are companion animals and should be kept indoors. This lulls some cat owners into a false sense of security. There a variety of indoor plants toxic to cats including, but not limited to, azaleas, oleander, yew plants and easter lilies.
2. Keep rodent and pest traps out of reach. Many homeowners use a variety of baits and traps for roaches, slugs, ants and mice causing danger to their precious feline friends. Cats are drawn to the smell of the bait and can be tempted to eat it themselves. Always place these items far out of reach of your crafty cat to avoid the unpleasant side effects.
3. Be aware of every day items. Cats are prone to getting into things that are bad for them and the list might surprise some owners. Coffee grounds, cigarette butts, batteries, play dough, mothballs, fabric softener and potpourri can cause illness, corrosive lesions and even death.
4. Put up the cleaning products. Common cleaning products can cause gastrointestinal problems in cats so be aware and lock them up. Some even argue that cats should not be present when cleaning products producing strong fumes are used. Owners should also be aware that common car care or garage items such as anti-freeze are extremely toxic and even small amounts can be fatal.
5. Use the proper products. When people cut corners and use flea products or medications not designed specifically for cats they could be causing irreparable harm to their cat. Make sure to read all of the product packaging information and avoid using any product that is designed for use in dogs only. While some Veterinary medications are universal for cats and dogs, many are not and can be quite dangerous.
6. Cover your furniture. Until you have established proper outlets for your cat’s natural scratching instinct you should plan on covering furniture and removing or tying up draperies to prevent damage done by clawing cats. Try throw blankets or covers specifically designed for furniture. You should also provide adequate toys or towers for your cat to use this behavior in a manner that will not destroy your possessions.
7. Beware choking hazards. Everyday items including paper clips, rubber bands and plastic bags can be choking hazards for curious cats. Try keeping these items organized in desk drawers to keep them out of the reach of your cat.
8. Place your breakables out of reach. Cats are natural climbers and if left unchecked will jump on almost any surface in your home. When doing so, they can knock fragile items onto the floor; causing them to break. Until your cat settles in you should consider relocating or packing precious knick knacks and valuables to avoid the chance of permanent damage.
9. Tie up the cords. Electrical cords and mini-blind cords alike are tempting objects for your cat. They dangle just within reach encouraging play. In these cases cat play could cause the choking or hanging of your pet or damage to your home. In either case it is best to tie up and organize loose cords.
10. Close your windows or check their screens. While some think that cats always land on their feet, serious injuries can occur if your cat makes a jump for it out of your second story window. Cats can be prone to jumping out windows and injuries are most common from between 10 and 12 feet so make sure those screens are on tight or simply close the windows.
Article sent in by a site with dog doors, dog bowls and raised feeders.
Heartworm disease causes lung disease, heart failure & is often fatal
Heartworm disease is a disease in dogs that develops when a dog is bitten by a mosquito carrying microscopic heartworm larvae of a parasitic worm known as Dirofilaria immitis. As the mosquito feeds on your dog the larvae are deposited within your dog. They enter through the skin, then travel through the bloodstream and eventually settle and grown in the right side of the heart and the arteries of the lungs. Once there the parasites will grow until they reach a length of 10 to 12 inches at maturity. Heartworm disease causes lung disease and heart failure and is often fatal. While easy to prevent, heartworms continue to be a major health problem for dogs throughout the United States.
Preventing heartworms is as simple as giving your pet a monthly medication containing ivermectin. There are many products on the market that contain ivermectin including chewables and topical treatments. Pet owners can also administer products made with selamectin to prevent heartworm disease, fleas, ticks, earmites and sarcoptic mange all through one monthly topical treatment. These treatments are applied directly to the skin at the base of your dogs neck or between her shoulder blades. These treatments are relatively inexpensive and range in price from $5 - $20 per month depending on the size of your dog. These methods are safe, easy to use and when given on time every month, extremely effective.
Heartworm preventative requires a prescription and none of the preventatives above should be administered without testing your dog beforehand. Veterinarians will give a blood test to your pooch to check for parasites before issuing a prescription. This is important because the medication in these preventatives can cause life-threatening reactions to dogs who already have heartworm disease. If you already take your dog to the Vet for her yearly physical and shots then chances are the Vet is performing a blood test to check for these parasites. That test is all you need for a year long prescription for heartworm preventative. Testing and preventing heartworm could not be easier and is much less expensive than treating your dog for heartworm disease.
If your dog is not currently taking monthly preventative then there are symptoms indicative to heartworms that you can look out for. Dogs may have a frequent and persistent cough, a decrease in energy level, reluctance to exercise, fatigue, decreased appetite and weight loss. Weight loss is often followed by a swollen abdomen caused by a fluid build up in the stomach. Dogs can be infected for years before these symptoms show up. The heartworms themselves do not cause symptoms they are a result of the damage they do to the heart and lungs over the course of the infection. As heartworm disease progresses blood flow through diseased lungs to the heart becomes restricted. This is what causes heart failure and death.
Cases of heartworm disease have been reported in every state in the US; however, they are more prevalent in the southeastern portion of the country. This is partly due to the climate in this region and the number of mosquitoes native to the area. Everyone should treat their dog for heartworms because infected dogs can move into the area with new owners or due to displacement from areas struck by natural disasters. While treatment options vary consistent year round protection is the best course of action. Of dogs exposed to the larvae, 100% become infected. Treatments for the disease can be effective in otherwise healthy dogs; however, they are quite costly and can easily extend into the several thousand dollar range. While heartworm prevention is extremely effective, treatment can be painful, dangerous and in some cases, fatal.
This article was submitted by the authors at pet super store a site featuring patio pet doors, innotek systems, and dog bowls.